About Paper Tole ...
Paper Tole is an elegant Italian Renaissance craft, that can be traced back over the years to its origins in Decoupage. It is the art of transforming a two-dimensional image - any drawing, painting, print or photo - into a three-dimensional image of great power and beauty. Between five and seven duplicates and the original are required to construct the tableau, which is then placed in a shadowbox frame. Selected elements are cut from the duplicates and, using glue and a silicone base, placed on the original, gradually building depth and definition. The work requires precision and a meticulous attention to detail. It is a satisfying and demanding craft and a joy to all who are privileged to own an example of this old and respected art form. Examples of Paper Tole - still life's, landscapes, family groups, lighthearted cartoons - can be found worldwide, gracing the homes of people who pass them on to later generations. They make charming gifts and treasured keepsakes for years to come.
About Me ...
I have loved doing crafts most of my life...oil painting, watercolors, charcoal drawing, cross stitching, embroidery, Decoupage, china painting. I was fortunate enough to be a stay-at-home Mom, which gave me many opportunities to try my hand at art. Nothing has so totally fascinated me and given me such satisfaction as Paper Tole (the exception being my 3 beautiful children). I love the uniqueness of each Paper Tole piece that I do, as no two are ever identical, even when using the same print. I find it is appreciated by men as well as women. There is a deep satisfaction in creating a one-of-a kind picture for someone and sharing their delight in the final product. I do have a difficult time letting one of my creations go to a new home, however: I fall in love with each one.
I work in a sunny studio on our mini-farm, always with one or more of my three dogs for company. Molly, my little Bichon, is a constant presence, always at my feet. With a fire crackling on the hearth in winter or the windows thrown open in the summer, and my husband's workshop only a stone's throw away, I feel I have been blessed with the best of all possible worlds.
It would be my pleasure to create a perfect Paper Tole treasure for you. I am constantly adding new
examples on my web site; please visit often, and choose one or more for yourself and as gifts for those special folks on your list. You may also place orders on that page.
Yours sincerely,
Joan Gardner
2800 Old Briggs Chaney Rd.
Silver Spring, MD 20905
Email: larrynjoan888@yahoo.com
