Trying ATC's series # 4 - Mailart

This group thread reminded me of how nervous I was about trying ATC's for the first time, so I decided to host a monthly "Trying ATC's" series for the group. It's a safe space to try something new :)

Each swap in the series will have a theme and for this one it is Mail Art. This is quite a popular theme on the 'Bot as it celebrates anything to do with the mailing system. So anything to do with the mail system would fit in this theme - postage stamps, airmail, envelopes, cancellation lines, mailboxes, mailmen etc.

Here are some links to inspire you:

• Wikipedia write-up on Mail art
• The electronic museum of mail arrt
• Please hop onto Flickr and search 'mail art' - you will be pleasantly surprised with all the visuals :)

Most important things to remember about ATC's:

• Size: This is the most important thing about ATC’s. They have to be 2.5” x 3.5“ (64mm x 84mm). They can be made up horizontally or vertically.
• Info on the back: ATC’s have some information on the back. The basics are: Title, artist name and date created.

Hints and Tips to conquer the fear:

• Do what you know: I suggest that you go with a method that you know very well i.e. something that you are comfortable with. Essentially ATC’s are just small canvasses, so do what you know on that canvas. If you draw, draw. If you paint, paint. If you collage, collage. If you stitch, stitch and so forth. There is no restrictions on what methods or media that can be used for ATC’s, so set your creativity free.
• Be inspired: Go to sites like Flickr to see what others have done for ATC’s. Identify what you like and work that into your art piece. Do not copy another artist and claim it as your own work. Let your own artistic voice free.
• Do not be your own worst enemy: If you have created something that you are proud of, show it off to family, friends, co-workers, pets and anyone else that will encourage you. Give yourself permission to impress you.
• It’s about workmanship: It is very clear when something is made with care and when it is just rushed and slapped together. Create artwork that you are proud of. Only send out items that you will be thrilled to receive. Respect your partner as a fellow artist and you will be fine.

What you need to join this swap:

• 4.9+ rating with no unexplained 1’s or 3’s in the last 3 months.
• 1 x rated type-3 craft swap. It will need to have been a swap that you made something for. So no buy or destash swaps.
• You can be new to ATC's or an old hand. The more the merrier.

This swap is sender's choice, so rate fairly.

1 ATC to 1 partner :) If you want to send more, feel free. I tend to get carried away myself.

If you are unsure if you qualify or have any other questions/concerns, please PM me. I will also be checking the swap discussion to answer queries.

Let’s have fun :)