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Virginia Crowe

I have created a technique through much trial and error that will help you to create the flawless petal you have seen in my works. In this course you will learn how to create that petal, as well as how to create a few other types of petal using the same technique. I will also run you through some of the common mistakes that I made and learned how to easily correct. With the purchase of this course you will have access to my private facebook group where you will get unlimited support from my community. I will upload videos regularly to this page and share my current works.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction
Information on all courses by Virginia Crowe

Short Version: I have been exploring art again since June of 2018. Before that I was a gym owner. My exploration started with Acrylic painting which morphed into acrylic pouring and teaching classes and having acrylic pouring parties. One of my friends exposed me to alcohol ink in late summer early October of 2018 when she showed me her abstract works. I became hooked. I started with abstract painting and one day accidentally created a flower. It was pretty rough, let me tell you, but it was fun and when I posted it on facebook as an ACCIDENT the response was overwhelming and I actually sold the piece! I continued to play with the technique and developed my own way of doing flowers. I started noticing that there was nothing like the flowers I was doing anywhere and people would often ask me how I created such smooth petals. I thought maybe an online course would be fun!? The response was overwhelming. So here we are! You will be taught the technique that I developed through a lot of practice and trial and error. I am sure there are others out there using similar tools and doing other types of flowers using a few of my techniques, but the fact is, this is my technique that I developed on my own. In mid February 2019, I also took a class from a woman named Kimberly Deene. She creates beautiful centers to her flowers and I wanted to learn how to perfect my technique. In the "Photos of my flowers" Section you will notice pictures of my flowers with these very dimensional centers. Some of those were created after taking Kims course and I highly recommend her class if you want to learn how to make these centers.


Long Version: was born and raised in the Santa Cruz mountains in a small house in the middle of the redwoods. My family didn’t have much but I grew up knowing how to play outdoors, create and be free! Although I had a good relationship with my mom, my grandmother and I were very close. At a young age, she immersed me in art. I remember waking up to her drawing or painting. She painted on everything, furniture, clothing, whatever she could get her hands on. I was surrounded by her creativity. I dabbled in drawing and taking art classes, but I never really found one thing that I enjoyed. I felt safe with my grandmother and considered her home a place of refuge. My childhood, outside of the relationship with her, was quite toxic and abusive. At an early age, I shut down and put up walls. I didn't explore my creativity because I didn’t want to expose myself to any potential criticism from anyone for any reason. I always felt that I wasn't good enough and that hurt, so it was easier for me to not even try. My family continued to encourage me, but I found other ways of occupying my time that I didn't feel I would be judged by. So art was pushed aside....My life has been a rollercoaster of abusive relationships one after another. In my last relationship, I had a little boy. My son was born with Autism. Some may consider this to be a disability, or a sad thing, but I do not see it that way. My son is the happiest kid I have ever met, the absolute light of my life and I cherish every day I have with him.

It wasn’t until this last year that I got the courage to stand up for myself and my son and leave my marriage. I found the help I needed from the Laura's House, to live on my own. I began a life of healing. Through therapy and life coaching, I rediscovered art. It is like the flood gates have been opened. Everything in my heart and soul is spilling on to paper and canvas. I can't stop creating. I am trying everything! My Alcohol Ink journey started sometime late summer, early October with Abstract paintings and morphed into painting flowers, which I have become known for. I am also known for the alcohol ink art boxes that I create. I can't really explain the level of happiness that comes over me when I complete a beautiful drawing or paint or pour a beautiful painting. I feel elated, alive and FREE. Art has really become a daily ritual. It calms me, helps me relax and become move centered. My son is really enjoying it too! He often asks to go in the studio to do art!

I want to help others find the joy and creativity inside themselves through art. If one person can find joy from exploring their creativity, trying something new, I will be fulfilled. My art parties and art lessons are all geared toward creating an experience that is exciting and fun. Everyone that participates has been overjoyed with their results.

Thank you for reading my story and having a look around. I hope you enjoy what you see. :)

Most of my art is for sale. I feel I can use my creativity as a way to "give back".

A portion of every sale will be used to give back to the Laura's House or The Shea Center for Therapeutic Riding. My son has coordination and motor skill issues that have improved because of riding lessons at The Shea Center. Laura's House not only has an emergency shelter to help women, but they provide therapy and resources that help women get legal advice and learn how to cope and live without abuse.

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Direct link to my Amazon Supply list.

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/NKNSL9IB980F?ref_=wl_share

it is important to note that I have tried other airbrushes and they just don't work the same. For this price this one is amazing and it has worked for everyone that has purchased it.

I show you the basic techniques that you will learn when taking this course. Your compressor should be set at 25psi or close to. You need to use 91% alcohol any lower or higher percentage is not recommended.

Time Lapse video showing a flower being made at high speed. Now that you have seen several of these done at a slower recording, you can pick up faster what I am doing to form these flowers. I feel that the more you see, the more you understand the process.

In this video, you will find a couple of backgrounds I created to show you how you can use Duralar to create a different look. Because the Duralar is transparent you can paint the background on one side of the paper and the flower on the other. Then you can go in and remove the background from behind the petals. To make the image stand out, mount with a white backing, or to give it a different look, try mounting on straight wood with grain or other textures. Duralar gives you so many options!

In this video I paint two flowers.  I use a background that adds texture to the flowers.  I focus on painting 2 centers side by side at the end, explaining how I use a q-tip to paint them. 

This is a video of the creation of a sunflower.  I did the video for another class, but I hope you can it  :)

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides access to a private Facebook group, fostering a supportive community and direct interaction with the instructor, which can be invaluable for beginners seeking guidance and inspiration
Explores the instructor's personal journey with art, which may resonate with learners seeking creative expression as a form of healing or self-discovery
Requires specific tools, including an airbrush, and 91% alcohol, which may represent an additional cost or barrier to entry for some students
Includes troubleshooting videos addressing common mistakes, offering practical solutions and guidance for learners encountering challenges during the creative process
Features demonstrations using Duralar, which expands creative options by allowing for unique background effects and mounting techniques to enhance the final artwork
Recommends a class from Kimberly Deene for learning how to create dimensional flower centers, suggesting that this course focuses primarily on petal creation

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Reviews summary

Learn unique alcohol ink flower petal technique

According to learners, this course offers a unique and effective technique for creating realistic alcohol ink flower petals. Many students found the instructor's teaching style to be clear, engaging, and easy to follow, even for absolute beginners. The course provides detailed explanations and demonstrates common mistakes and how to fix them. A significant highlight is the access to a supportive private Facebook group where the instructor is very active and provides personalized help. While some note the technique requires practice, students generally feel the course provides all the necessary information to achieve beautiful results. The course caters well to hobbyists and aspiring alcohol ink artists.
Clear guidance on supplies needed.
"Virginia covers all her supplies and materials and where to get them."
"The Amazon supply list link was very convenient and helpful."
"Good explanation of necessary tools like the airbrush and specific alcohol percentage."
Learn how to fix common errors.
"She goes over common mistakes which is VERY helpful."
"Handling typical mistakes like 'spider legs' and 'puddles' is covered well."
"I appreciate that she shows troubleshooting and how to correct issues that come up."
"Learning how to fix mistakes saved me a lot of frustration."
Suitable for those new to alcohol ink.
"Perfect for beginners as well as experienced AI artists."
"As an absolute beginner, I found this course easy to follow."
"The course is structured so that even someone completely new can understand and learn."
Supportive community and instructor.
"The Facebook Group support makes this course even better, Virginia is very active and responds to every question."
"Access to the private facebook group is a HUGE asset with this course."
"Having access to the private Facebook group for ongoing support and tips is invaluable."
"The community and instructor feedback on Facebook is incredibly helpful."
Instructor explains everything very well.
"This class teaches Virginia's amazing techniques in a very clear and helpful way."
"Virginia teaches you in a very clear step-by-step method that anyone can follow."
"The explanations are easy to understand and very clear."
"Everything is explained in detail, making it simple to follow along."
Learn a distinctive alcohol ink method.
"I have followed her for months and absolutely love her technique and flowers. This course will teach you her technique and how to replicate it."
"I have tried other alcohol ink courses but none have the petal technique that she teaches and perfects."
"This course teaches her amazing and UNIQUE Petal Technique that she developed herself."
"The course offers her unique petal technique, not found elsewhere."
Technique needs dedication to master.
"The technique takes practice to perfect, but the course gives you the tools."
"Achieving the 'perfect petal' takes time and repetition, but the course provides a solid foundation."
"It's not easy right away, but practicing the steps taught really helps improve."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Alcohol Ink Flowers (The Perfect Petal) with these activities:
Practice Airbrush Control
Improve your airbrush control to create smoother petals and avoid common mistakes. Consistent practice will lead to more predictable and desirable results in your alcohol ink flower creations.
Show steps
  • Practice spraying on scrap paper to get a feel for the airbrush.
  • Experiment with different air pressures and distances.
  • Focus on creating smooth, even lines and gradients.
Review 'The Art of Airbrushing' by Walter J. Musial
Gain a deeper understanding of airbrushing principles and techniques. This book will help you master the tool used in the course.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on basic airbrush control and maintenance.
  • Pay attention to the sections on creating gradients and smooth transitions.
  • Practice the exercises in the book to improve your airbrushing skills.
Create a Petal Swatch Book
Document your petal-making experiments to track your progress and identify successful techniques. This will help you refine your skills and develop your own unique style.
Show steps
  • Create a series of petals using different techniques learned in the course.
  • Label each petal with the specific techniques and materials used.
  • Organize the petals in a binder or sketchbook for easy reference.
  • Reflect on what you learned from each petal and note areas for improvement.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Review 'Alcohol Ink Dreamscapes' by Lisa Luree
Expand your knowledge of alcohol ink techniques and explore new possibilities for your flower art. This book will provide inspiration and guidance for creating unique and captivating compositions.
Show steps
  • Browse the book for inspiration and new techniques.
  • Experiment with different color combinations and layering techniques.
  • Try creating backgrounds and textures using the methods described in the book.
Design a Series of Alcohol Ink Flower Cards
Apply your newly acquired skills to create a set of greeting cards featuring alcohol ink flowers. This project will allow you to practice different petal styles and color combinations.
Show steps
  • Sketch out designs for your greeting cards.
  • Create alcohol ink flowers using the techniques learned in the course.
  • Attach the flowers to cardstock and add embellishments.
  • Write personalized messages inside the cards.
Alcohol Ink Flower Composition
Create a larger, more complex alcohol ink flower composition. This project will challenge you to combine different petal styles and create a cohesive and visually appealing artwork.
Show steps
  • Plan the overall design and color scheme of your composition.
  • Create individual alcohol ink flowers using various techniques.
  • Arrange the flowers on a larger surface, such as a canvas or wood panel.
  • Add details and finishing touches to complete the composition.
Share Your Work and Provide Feedback
Reinforce your learning by sharing your alcohol ink flower creations with others and providing constructive feedback. Teaching and explaining concepts to others solidifies your own understanding.
Show steps
  • Share your alcohol ink flower creations on social media or in online art communities.
  • Provide constructive feedback to other artists on their work.
  • Answer questions and offer advice to beginners.

Career center

Learners who complete Alcohol Ink Flowers (The Perfect Petal) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Hobby Artist
A hobby artist creates art for personal enjoyment and fulfillment. The Alcohol Ink Flowers course may be particularly helpful in this context, as it offers a structured approach to creating floral art with alcohol ink. The course provides a technique to craft petals and also highlights potential mistakes and their corrections. The supportive Facebook group mentioned in the course description creates a collaborative environment for hobby artists to share their work and receive constructive feedback. The course's emphasis on experimentation and self-discovery aligns with the personal growth often sought by hobby artists.
Mixed Media Artist
A mixed media artist combines various materials and techniques to create art. This Alcohol Ink Flowers course may be useful for mixed media artists looking to incorporate floral elements into their artwork. The course helps one to create petals, as well as how to correct common mistakes. The course emphasizes a technique developed through practice and trial and error, which encourages artists to experiment with unique combinations of materials and techniques. The instructor's explanation of the evolution of her technique, highlights the value of constant learning.
Craft Blogger
A craft blogger creates and shares content related to various crafts and DIY projects. The Alcohol Ink Flowers course may be useful for craft bloggers seeking to create fresh and engaging content for their audience. The course provides a specific petal creation technique, as well as tips on common mistakes and how to correct them. The course's private Facebook group could be a valuable resource for craft bloggers to find inspiration, connect with other creators, and promote their content. The emphasis on artistic exploration and the creation of unique floral art aligns with the creative spirit of craft blogging.
Floral Designer
As a floral designer, one arranges living, dried, or artificial flowers and foliage to create beautiful designs for various occasions. The Alcohol Ink Flowers course may help someone interested in this field by providing unique and artistic petal creation techniques applicable to artificial or even inspiring real floral arrangements. Learning to craft flawless petals could translate into creating eye-catching and innovative floral designs that stand out. The course focuses on a specific technique developed through practice and trial and error, and this focused approach to petal design could directly influence the creation of novel floral art.
Art teacher
An art teacher instructs students in various art forms, techniques, and concepts. The Alcohol Ink Flowers course may be useful for art teachers seeking to expand their knowledge and offer new, engaging projects to their students. The course gives a specific petal creation technique, along with common mistakes and corrections, providing a structured curriculum element. The course's private Facebook group could serve as a platform for art teachers to exchange ideas and best practices related to alcohol ink art. The course's focus on the instructor's personal journey and experimentation highlights the value of lifelong learning, a vital message for art teachers to convey.
Custom Stationery Designer
A stationery designer creates custom designs for items like invitations, cards, and announcements. This Alcohol Ink Flowers course could be beneficial for stationery designers aiming to add unique floral elements to their designs. The course helps one to create petals, as well as how to correct common mistakes. The course emphasizes a technique developed through practice and trial and error, which provides designers a foundation from which to create their own designs. The instructor's journey, showcases the importance of finding one's unique artistic voice.
Textile Artist
Textile artists create artwork using fabric, yarn, and other textile materials. The Alcohol Ink Flowers course may be helpful for textile artists looking to incorporate floral designs into their work. The course helps to create petals, as well as how to correct mistakes. The course emphasizes a technique developed through practice and trial and error, which could translate into textile art. The instructor's journey, showcases the importance of experimentation.
Surface Pattern Designer
Surface pattern designers create original patterns for various surfaces, such as textiles, wallpaper, and home decor items. The Alcohol Ink Flowers course may provide valuable skills for surface pattern designers looking to add unique floral elements to their designs. The course's instruction on petal creation might translate into designing distinct floral motifs for patterns. The course emphasizes a technique developed through practice and trial and error, which encourages designers to develop their own artistic signature. This focused approach to creating artwork could directly influence the creation of innovative surface patterns.
Cake Decorator
Cake decorators design and create visually appealing cakes, often using various decorating techniques and materials. The Alcohol Ink Flowers course may be useful for cake decorators seeking to learn new ways to create floral decorations for cakes. The course provides a specific petal creation technique, which could translate into unique sugar or fondant flower designs. The emphasis on artistic exploration and creation aligns with the creative spirit of cake decorating.
Restoration Artist
A restoration artist specializes in repairing and restoring damaged artwork, antiques, and other valuable objects. The Alcohol Ink Flowers course may be useful for restoration artists who work with art that includes floral elements. The course provides a specific petal creation technique, as well as tips on common mistakes and how to correct them. The course's private Facebook group could be a resource for restoration artists to exchange ideas and best practices. The emphasis on artistic exploration and creation aligns with the need for creativity and attention to detail in restoration work.
Jewelry Designer
A jewelry designer creates and designs jewelry pieces, often incorporating various materials and techniques. The Alcohol Ink Flowers course could be helpful for jewelry designers interested in incorporating floral elements into their designs. The course helps one to create petals, as well as how to correct mistakes. The course emphasizes a technique developed through practice and trial and error, which encourages learning a technique to apply to jewelry design. The instructor's journey, showcases the importance of experimentation in artistic pursuits.
Art Gallery Owner
An art gallery owner manages and operates an art gallery, curating exhibitions and promoting artists. The Alcohol Ink Flowers course may be useful for art gallery owners seeking to understand different art techniques and connect with artists who create floral art. The course provides a specific petal creation technique. The course's private Facebook group might be a helpful resource for art gallery owners to discover new talent and connect with artists who specialize in alcohol ink floral art. The emphasis on artistic exploration can help develop an understanding on creating.
Cosmetic Artist
A cosmetic artist applies makeup and other cosmetic enhancements to individuals for various purposes, such as special events or photoshoots. The Alcohol Ink Flowers course may be useful for cosmetic artists interested in incorporating floral designs into their makeup looks. The course helps to create petals, as well as how to correct common mistakes. The course emphasizes a technique developed through practice and trial and error, which can transfer into makeup application. The instructor's journey, showcases the importance of finding one's artistic voice.
Art Appraiser
An art appraiser assesses the value of artwork based on various factors, such as its condition, provenance, and artistic merit. The Alcohol Ink Flowers course may be useful for art appraisers who specialize in contemporary art or art that incorporates floral elements. The course provides a specific petal creation technique, as well as tips on common mistakes and how to correct them. The course's private Facebook group could be a helpful resource for art appraisers to learn from other experts. The emphasis on artistic exploration and creation aligns with the need for knowledge and understanding of art techniques in art appraisal.
Muralist
A muralist creates large-scale artwork directly on walls or other surfaces. Alcohol Ink Flowers may be useful for muralists seeking to incorporate floral elements into their murals. The course provides a specific petal creation technique, as well as tips on common mistakes and how to correct them. The course's private Facebook group might be a resource for muralists to find inspiration and connect with other artists. The emphasis on artistic exploration and creation aligns with the creative spirit of mural art.

Reading list

We've selected one books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Alcohol Ink Flowers (The Perfect Petal).
Provides a comprehensive guide to airbrushing techniques, covering everything from basic equipment setup to advanced artistic applications. It offers valuable insights into controlling the airbrush for various effects, which is directly applicable to creating delicate petals in alcohol ink art. While not specific to alcohol inks, the fundamental airbrushing skills taught in this book will greatly enhance your ability to execute the techniques taught in the course. This book useful reference for airbrushing techniques.

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