For a bit of fun today, I’m sharing my idea on how to make book page botanical art. The other day I found a few fern fronds in an old book that I placed there last year to dry. They left a faint impression on the page which gave me the idea of painting a fern instead of framing a dried specimen. Maybe with a little more practice I might achieve that trompe l’oeil effect, but for now these jaunty ferns will do.
How To Make Book Page Botanical Art
Sharing artwork is always a little scary for me, but then I think, what the heck! I’m basically just giving you ideas or a starting point for your own creations.
Yesterday needing time to escape for a bit, I eagerly put on my earbuds to listen to an audiobook and began painting. There’s nothing like letting the creative side of my brain take over. Painting is relaxing for me and sometimes I have to let go and have fun with it.
I know that book page art isn’t new, but this is the first time I’ve painted on them. Watercolors seems to work really will on these thick old pages, and I’m already lining up a few more art projects.
To make ferns I suggest using a duel tip watercolor marker to draw with. You can also use the marker to trace over pencil lines and then erase later.
Then use watercolor paints to fill in the larger areas such as the leaves.
Allow the watercolor to dry just a little then go back and add details with the markers. If the details look to harsh blend the lines using a damp watercolor brush.
You’ll create easy botanical artwork in no time at all!
Supplies
- old book pages
- watercolors
- art brush
- watercolor markers
My ferns are sort of made up, but if you’re looking to get real technical, search on line for images. I found some good examples on the U.S. Forest Service web site.
I’m reusing the floating glass frames from last years herb collage project. For details see my post How To Make A Pressed Herb Collage.
These frames are so handy for switching out seasonal artwork. Plus you don’t have to worry about having the right size mat for your artwork. To keep the book page from slipping between the glass, use a small piece of double sided tape to hold it in place.
Be sure to follow Thistle Key Lane on Pinterest, where the boards are up to date with seasonal inspiration you are going to love!
Thanks for letting me share a little of what I’ve been up to lately and my botanical artwork ideas with you. Until next time…
Cheers! 
©2020 How To Make Book Page Botanical Art post first appeared on Thistle Key Lane.
Very fun. I have been wanting to learn water coloring. Looking tutorials, but every new venture, it is the start and making mistakes.
By the way the pictures look good.
In my books there is no right or wrong way to paint. Just do what makes you happy and have fun with it!
I love this project Michelle, Easy, but seems like you could use the art in so many places in the home. I have Tombow dual markers and I may try them first. Thanks for the idea. Happy Sunday.
You’re right Carol, this kind of artwork is so easy and can go just about anywhere in the home. Enjoy your afternoon!
Your art project turned out great! The frames are perfect for your artwork.
It was a fun way to send a few hours yesterday. Thanks so much for stopping by Allyson!
Michelle, I am a huge fan of botanical art of all kinds. I really love your spin on this will book pages and can’t wait to try it.
Thanks Patti, I’m making a few more so I can change it up this summer.
I have to try this!
Hope you have fun with it!
They’re stunning Michelle. I’ve always wanted to try my hand at watercolor but stress a little because it dries so quickly and I’m used to oils. This is the perfect project to get over that stress 😉
Thanks Michelle! Don’t stress just have fun!
Michelle, what a great idea! I’m going to try this and I love the way you have hung your frames with the little chain. Thank you.
Thank you, these frames are so easy to open and switch out the artwork! Thanks for stopping by Deana!
So pretty and simple to do! Love the frames!
Thanks Kim! It’s all very affordable and can be used anywhere.
Extremely charming Michelle
Thank you so much Maria!
These are beautiful! I love this idea, Michelle – and these frames are great!
Thanks Janet, these little ferns were fun to paint!
Michelle, these watercolors are really pretty! I love your first book page with the curled ferns!!! So childlike and happy. The second is bordering on real ~ up there with Redouté. Love this idea!!! I need to pull out my watercolors again…
Happy painting,
Barb 🙂
Barbara, your description “childlike” is most accurate. Redouté? Not even in my wildest dreams, but thank you for your sweet comments!
Luv this idea so much Michelle🙌🏻
Thank you Ann! 🙂
Michelle, I LOVE this idea! There is so many rooms including the patio that they would be perfect in. Thanks for the tip on where to find the frames and prints online
Thank you Rachelle, I like your idea of displaying botanicals on a patio.
Those are just darling Michelle – I love the whole concept! 💗 Thanks for the great tips!
Thank you Barbara, I’m already making more.
Although I am crafty, I am NOT artistic but the simplicity of these paintings tempted me! They are beautiful!
Thank you Kathy! I’m learning as I go and hope to be able to add more surrounding details someday. At this point it’s mostly trial and error.