Great work. I made a 6 foot Halloween tree for 2017 using concrete tubing for the base and covered it using the paper towel method dipped in Sheetrock joint compound. Mixed three parts compound with one part black exterior paint and little water for thinning. I think some people on CZcams call it monster mud. For such a large piece it was cheaper to use the joint compound as the glue. I did use newspaper and masking tape in areas needing to be bulked out. I would attach a pic of finished product but don’t know how. Thank you for sharing your tutorials.
Your channel is great! Just wanted to weigh in on some other painting techniques that I have used that can give different real life nature effects. If you paint colors dark to light and don't let the colors dry all the way they will start to blend in areas. It can give more depth and hundreds of colors while only using just a few paint colors. Now, If you are planning a project for outside, paint all colors wet as described. Then with the fresh paint almost dry barely tacky, coat with self level clear epoxy using the least amount of pressure on brush. This effect will turn the wet paint 100 color technique into 1000's of random colors. If you want it UV protected so the epoxy doesn't yellow wait until the epoxy is cured and use a scotch brite pad to lightly scuff on smooth areas. If the project is super rough tree bark no roughing is necessary. Lastly, coat with a UV clear varnish. This will last years of sun and weather. Hope this helps some.
So awesome!! 👏🏽 👏🏽👏🏽🥰 this is definitely going to take my stumps to the next level. I love how they both look. On my next tree, I will add these techniques along with my own. Im going to apply this to the dollar tree cut pieces of real tree stumps and give them more detail make them look older and more realistic, even tho they are real..lol they are missing all these details ..tysm ❤🥰
Great guide, thank you.....I’m busy making 12 (yes 12!) 8ft high trees for a work project at the moment using the paper towel method....quite an undertaking 😅.....this painting tutorial was just what I needed....great job
Thankyou sooooo much for putting these bark videos on Sharon I have been so patient waiting for them lol and now I can go and play! I made some plaster vases and totally messed them up with the painting of them so it really is a trial and effort. Now with your help I will try them again along with my stump. Thanks once more and look forward to more videos specially ones where you make your little characters. Love from me xx
I made my tree stump by paper mache’ing just with tissue paper. I had so much fun with it I just didn’t think mine needed more with paper towels. I think it gives a more delicate wood look. I wish I could post pictures with my comment. Thank you so much for your awesome tutorials!! I definitely wouldn’t have thought to do it this way on my own.
U answered th question of whether these projects are waterproof or not, all I needed to do was keep watching ur videos..lol So impressive are these “creations” u keep coming up w..I feel as tho I hafta watch them all.. Georgia USA..😊
A few years ago, after hearing one of my videos, my son nicknamed me "Bobina Ross" lol That's such an honor. I'm a huge fan of Bob Ross! And thank you so much for the kind words and wonderful feedback, you made my day!
Hello there. Thank you for showing this bark method. I'm in the process of making an artificial Bonsai tree with blossom, so need a good texture to make the tree look old. I'm liking the paper towel method. Will give it a go.
Omgoodness..I can not stop watching all of this greatness! I just subscribed when I saw the antique oil lamps..which I got to explore and make...I also linked you in my listing..hope you don't mind...it was listed as "inspired by" and now I have stumbled upon this amazing Gnome Habitat you have created... I saw a recent tour and thought wow..I have so much to catch up on!🥰 It just keeps getting better the Alice's Rabbit Hole🥰 I really love this tree tutorial these are so simple and realistic I could really use this technique for my miniature landscape on my farm. I do have a plastic stump and could probably use the paper towel method to make it look more realistic and also creating other parts as well, using this method..I will also try the clay! Thank You So Much for sharing!!💖💖
I made a 1 1/2 meters tree for my cats to sleep and I used your paper towel fake bark. I must say that the only thing you have yo consider is to moist the paper tower and not damp it with glue, with that you avoid the glue dripping down so heavily. Ps: I wish I knew the watery black paint tip before making my cat's tree...It took me forever to cover the white spots...hahahah Greetings from Chile and thanks for you marvellous ideas.
I love both methods but I would have to choose the paper towel method. Gives a more spooky appearance for Halloween. It's what I'm looking for. TFS and God Bless.
U r such a great teacher and u discribed question b4 it could be asked hehe..I’m excited to finish what I’m doing so I can begin the bark now!!its snowing here today so a good time to work on the tree!..in regards to putting them outside,I have done birdhouses ,plaques ect painted and sealed and they have lasted yrs..but u have to seal them very well..with polyurethane and and about 3 coats..I do a good coverage all over,let it dry in between each coat well.land cover the whole thing.top and bottom ect..I’ve even done work on rocks and sealed them have lasted yrs.lbut the secret is good coverage and do NOT spray them..my sisternlaw did one and sprayed it and it didn’t last..
I'm not really into doing this BUT I love the end result of it and is teasing me into making my own version of those trees.. THANKS A LOT FOR THE INSPIRATION.....!
I like doing my black wash much runnier and doing it second, then patting down the surface with paper towel. For color, I like to dry brush a metallic gold over top of the bark to give out a subtle greenish sheen that makes it look a little mossy or like an algae. Barely noticable. You should try it sometime. Can always just do a little at a time, and can always paint over it if you don't like it.
Thanks for the awesome tutorial! I actually watched to figure out how to make the deku shield for my kid's Halloween costume but now I'm thinking my daughter and I need to make one of those gnome homes!
Just a thought (and I'm certainly no expert!)....... If people wish to make one of these and put it outside, maybe for Halloween etc, the structures can be sprayed with Matt finish clear varnish. It takes nothing from the look of the trees and as it's Matt it's not shiny but will give a waterproof seal/coating.
I have been looking for a tree tutorial and yours is the best! I love the two options depending on the look you are trying to achieve. Am looking for your FB page next to share a photo!
Hey if you add a bit of dawn soap to your wash itll make that surface tension weak so itll get down into the nooks a lot easier. You can dawn or flotrol? I think its called. But its what you use if you do acrylic pours. I paint minis for dnd and I had to learn this trick to get good at details. Thank you for this video! Im making a piece of art for my sister and couldnt figure out how to do this. Thanks so much!
for sure.. and different kinds of paper will give a different texture too. When I first started with bark I was using actual paper, I don't know why I stopped using that. I forgot all about this little outhouse, it dates back to 2013 www.sharonojala.com/2013/08/gnome-throne-miniature-outhouse.html
Fantastic work! They look great. You are a natural for your narration and clear explanation of your process. ( I think the clay one looks abit more like authentic bark) but I think the paper towel looks easier for a first timer like me...
That's quite nice video. I have also made a hollow bark tree after watching your video. My bark is now on painting stage and has started looking gr8 already. Thanks for your tips.
life interrupted...I got a job so I have not had the time as of late to work on my trunk...its killing me!!! Love yours so much!! part 1, 2, and 3 check!! xoxo stephie
Thank you so much for showing us the different methods; they both turned out absolutely beautiful! I’m decorating my hall as a forest, so I think I’ll be using the paper towel method as it’ll probably be a lot cheaper, seeing as I’m coving a lot of area. Plus stronger for the stairs banisters. When I film it, for my Home to Hogwarts Series on my Channel, I’ll definitely give you the credit. A new Sub from me, definitely 🥰
Just discovered this and your other tutorial on a hollow log, had a project in mind. Did a search on making a hollow log. This is perfect thanks for sharing your method
My tree trunk for my tree house came out looking like a pumpkin! Its all in the paint! I wish I would have used the black tissue paper also. Will be working on it more.
This is amazing, thank you so much for sharing your crafty knowledge! We're looking to build really big ones for a forest themed cafe, any pointers or tips for working with ones so large? Or an idea to use as the base?
thanks! No, I don't sell anything. You could spray them with paint for sure.. but I don't know what you mean, would a liquid sealant work better.. (better than what?)
oh sorry, reading before coffee is never good, lol I don't seal the exteriors with anything. Sometimes I do put a brush on sealer on my floors and walls, but not for any purpose other than easy washing/dusting later. I prefer the brush on just because I like the look of it. I use a matte, water based varathane fpr that. If you want to seal them for going outdoors, I haven't done that myself so I don't want to offer advice on it. The best thing to do is talk to a professional at a hardware store, they will have the best advice for weatherproofing.
If you want to make your light less bright, you should try mylar-foil. It gives a greyish spooky color. I usely take a coffee-package. NOT FOR LAMPS WHICH RADIATE A LOT OF HEAT!
I add them by scrunching up tinfoil, hot glue the one end to the tree then masking tape over that. Make sure the masking tape covers over parts of the tree itself so it holds the branch in place. Hollow out the parts you need hollow then masking tape over all of it then work the bark materiel over top the tape.
Love your videos! Thanks for sharing! I want to use the paper towel method to make border for my painting. Will watercolors work on the paper towel tree bark? Thank you!
Yes, they will. But I would suggest you to use color fixer after that so that it doesn't get spoiled by moisture or water. Further, simple water colors may not give you good results. But you may experiment and who knows, you may come up with better results. Good Luck.
This is great!! I just have a question (I commented on an earlier video, but in case you don't see it there): do either of these methods result in the tree being slightly flexible? Can I build a tree trunk around a paper towel roll with a slit down its length, and then pry it slightly open at the slit to fit around a narrow pole and then close it again?
sorry for the late reply! It is flexible for about a day while it continues to dry, it'll be dry to the touch but still wet underneath. But you could always build around the pole OR build it, make a slit and if it doesn't go around perfectly you can always patch any area that needs it. With both these bark methods I change my mind a lot so end up adding on after the bark is painted and dried and nobody can tell where the new bark starts and the old bark ends. I hope that helps!
@@WhereTheGnomesLive Quick question for ya... Do you happen to know if silicone would stick to your bark? The reason I ask, you have a very realistic texture and that would save massive time from sculpting it in plasticine as I normally do. I suppose, a urethane coating could help with the release...
Once the bark dries, no matter the material you've used from the 2 methods, it's like any paintable surface, silicone should stick to it. But I can't guarantee that since I've never tried it....I can't see why it wouldn't though.
@@WhereTheGnomesLive I bet I can make it stick... Its getting it to release. I need to replicate the texture in silicone so I can create a wax tree. It's this wax that gets turned into bronze. I'll give it a try and will report back to you sometime. Many thanks, keep up the good work.
ohhhh I see now! Thanks for clarifying. Yes, I would love updates, if you have a fb page or blog, feel free to leave a link, I'd love to see your work!
your craft is so amazing.. I love all your videos..was raining today so I enjoyed watching so many of them...I would love to make a few for my Garden especially your hallow logs ...could these be water proofed for outdoors?..
thank you! Yes, you can seal them for outdoors, however, I've never done it myself so I suggest to talk to a professional at your local hardware store. They should know the best product to use
I personally use transparent lacquer (Matt) on such crafts. They become water proof but don't know, how they will behave outdoor. For indoor, they are good and can be washed occasionally.
Hello…I finally got the courage to try making the bark with the paper towels as a stump. I am at the point where the towels are drying and even though I have a fan on they are soft and not developing a crust, It s not paintable- should I try to get a harder surface by applying a layer of modpodge? Was my glue and water slurry too thin so it did not set up correctly. Any advice would be welcome- thank you
It takes time to dry, sometimes it can take a few days, depending on the humidity in your place. Once it’s dry to the touch you can paint it but keep in mind once you apply the paint it will soften up again but hardens once completely dry. It can take up to a week to cure. I hope that helps & don’t hesitate to message again if you have any more questions
I watched this to discover how to get bark colouring for woodwork. When I need to reshape a live edge, I want to fake the same colour for the part that is cut. I see how to do that now. But why would you need to construct the whole thing when you can simply go for a salubrious walk and pick up a bit of hollow log?
I started building these in 2013 and at that time wished I could find a hollow log to use. When I couldn't find one I started building my own. I became miniature maker and soon started building homes for gnomes. My builds are most always large, over 4 feet tall with many rooms inside. I had a number of people asking me to build one a smaller scale, and to show how to build around a something. and asking what the difference between paper and clay, how long to dry and so on. I decided to kill a bunch of birds with one video series for those who need these techniques for their own miniature worlds. If you're interested, here is one of the larger builds using this same bark. I would never be able to find a log like this to work with www.sharonojala.com/2016/03/Dollhouse-Bed-and-Breakfast.html
Hi Catherine! Oh, my gosh ! I’m also making a tree stump mouse house for my granddaughters! Two years in the making in fact. I don’t know how far along you are with your mouse house but in case you’re still wondering about the paper towel and glue method, I am almost finished with adding the “bark” and it does harden by itself. I’ve actually done two layers. I let the first layer dry completely and then go over it again a second time but that was just my own decision to do. It has worked out great! I hope this helps. Good luck!
I haven't used air dry clay for making bark before but I can't see why it wouldn't work. If you are worried about wasting it you could try a small test patch and see how it looks after it dries.
Probably not relevant anymore haha but you can paper machè almost any surface. If it’s smooth or waxed or coated just do a light sand to remove the finish of the container and you’ll get a better surface tension for adhesion
I have an ugly pipe coming out of a sump pump on the floor going up & through the side of a wall & out to the yard. I was told a box could be built around it to hide it but I'd rather turn that twisty ugly pipe into a tree branch. I still need to be able to access the lid of the sump pump on the floor should I have a need to. Is there any way to do that?
Hello I really enjoyed watching your videos. I heard you saying you removed one of your milk cartons because the character would not fit. Would you make a video showing how to remove the milk carton please?
I just pulled it out, you can cut into it from the inside and pull, it's just held in by tape on the inside. If you take a look at the 2nd part of your question, I can't understand what it means, maybe there was auto correct or maybe you're asking if I made the inside into tree bark? If so, yes, you can do that by finishing the inside just like the outside. You can finish off the inside however you wish, you would just need to cover the tape with paper towel first (and glue) then you would have a surface you can work with.
I just found your channel. Your creations are amazing! So realistic looking and what I love is this project doesn’t cost a fortune! I was “stumped” on how to make my granddaughter’s fairy garden without buying expensive fairy houses and then I found you on CZcams. Your directions are concise and easy to understand. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
I haven't done that myself so I don't want to offer advice on it. The best thing to do is talk to a professional at a hardware store, they will have the best advice for weatherproofing.
I've used glow in the dark fabric paint before on some clay pieces I've made and they do glow. I've never used puff t-shirt paint so couldn't tell you for certain but I would guess it would
Great work. I made a 6 foot Halloween tree for 2017 using concrete tubing for the base and covered it using the paper towel method dipped in Sheetrock joint compound. Mixed three parts compound with one part black exterior paint and little water for thinning. I think some people on CZcams call it monster mud. For such a large piece it was cheaper to use the joint compound as the glue. I did use newspaper and masking tape in areas needing to be bulked out. I would attach a pic of finished product but don’t know how. Thank you for sharing your tutorials.
Thank you so much. I just love the paper towel tree stump. This is my next attempt at crafting!
Your channel is great! Just wanted to weigh in on some other painting techniques that I have used that can give different real life nature effects. If you paint colors dark to light and don't let the colors dry all the way they will start to blend in areas. It can give more depth and hundreds of colors while only using just a few paint colors. Now, If you are planning a project for outside, paint all colors wet as described. Then with the fresh paint almost dry barely tacky, coat with self level clear epoxy using the least amount of pressure on brush. This effect will turn the wet paint 100 color technique into 1000's of random colors. If you want it UV protected so the epoxy doesn't yellow wait until the epoxy is cured and use a scotch brite pad to lightly scuff on smooth areas. If the project is super rough tree bark no roughing is necessary. Lastly, coat with a UV clear varnish. This will last years of sun and weather. Hope this helps some.
Wow, the end result is amazing. Very realistic. Truly looks like bark you'd see in nature!
Thank you so much, I'm so happy to hear that! 😀
So awesome!! 👏🏽 👏🏽👏🏽🥰 this is definitely going to take my stumps to the next level. I love how they both look. On my next tree, I will add these techniques along with my own. Im going to apply this to the dollar tree cut pieces of real tree stumps and give them more detail make them look older and more realistic, even tho they are real..lol they are missing all these details ..tysm ❤🥰
Great guide, thank you.....I’m busy making 12 (yes 12!) 8ft high trees for a work project at the moment using the paper towel method....quite an undertaking 😅.....this painting tutorial was just what I needed....great job
WOW -- I would love to see the final project
Thankyou sooooo much for putting these bark videos on Sharon I have been so patient waiting for them lol and now I can go and play! I made some plaster vases and totally messed them up with the painting of them so it really is a trial and effort. Now with your help I will try them again along with my stump. Thanks once more and look forward to more videos specially ones where you make your little characters. Love from me xx
I'm so glad you find the videos helpful, it really means a lot. Have fun!
I made my tree stump by paper mache’ing just with tissue paper. I had so much fun with it I just didn’t think mine needed more with paper towels. I think it gives a more delicate wood look. I wish I could post pictures with my comment. Thank you so much for your awesome tutorials!! I definitely wouldn’t have thought to do it this way on my own.
U answered th question of whether these projects are waterproof or not, all I needed to do was keep watching ur videos..lol
So impressive are these “creations” u keep coming up w..I feel as tho I hafta watch them all..
Georgia USA..😊
You're like a female Bob Ross- I love your instructions, passion and kindness in the way you show us. It's so well made and relaxing.
New sub!
A few years ago, after hearing one of my videos, my son nicknamed me "Bobina Ross" lol That's such an honor. I'm a huge fan of Bob Ross! And thank you so much for the kind words and wonderful feedback, you made my day!
Hello there. Thank you for showing this bark method. I'm in the process of making an artificial Bonsai tree with blossom, so need a good texture to make the tree look old. I'm liking the paper towel method. Will give it a go.
Omgoodness..I can not stop watching all of this greatness! I just subscribed when I saw the antique oil lamps..which I got to explore and make...I also linked you in my listing..hope you don't mind...it was listed as "inspired by" and now I have stumbled upon this amazing Gnome Habitat you have created... I saw a recent tour and thought wow..I have so much to catch up on!🥰 It just keeps getting better the Alice's Rabbit Hole🥰 I really love this tree tutorial these are so simple and realistic I could really use this technique for my miniature landscape on my farm. I do have a plastic stump and could probably use the paper towel method to make it look more realistic and also creating other parts as well, using this method..I will also try the clay! Thank You So Much for sharing!!💖💖
I made a 1 1/2 meters tree for my cats to sleep and I used your paper towel fake bark. I must say that the only thing you have yo consider is to moist the paper tower and not damp it with glue, with that you avoid the glue dripping down so heavily.
Ps: I wish I knew the watery black paint tip before making my cat's tree...It took me forever to cover the white spots...hahahah
Greetings from Chile and thanks for you marvellous ideas.
how did it stand up to cat claws?
I love both methods but I would have to choose the paper towel method. Gives a more spooky appearance for Halloween. It's what I'm looking for. TFS and God Bless.
It’s my favourite too. I’m so glad you found what you needed! Happy crafting ❤️
U r such a great teacher and u discribed question b4 it could be asked hehe..I’m excited to finish what I’m doing so I can begin the bark now!!its snowing here today so a good time to work on the tree!..in regards to putting them outside,I have done birdhouses ,plaques ect painted and sealed and they have lasted yrs..but u have to seal them very well..with polyurethane and and about 3 coats..I do a good coverage all over,let it dry in between each coat well.land cover the whole thing.top and bottom ect..I’ve even done work on rocks and sealed them have lasted yrs.lbut the secret is good coverage and do NOT spray them..my sisternlaw did one and sprayed it and it didn’t last..
that's awesome! Good info :) Have fun with your tree!
I'm not really into doing this BUT I love the end result of it and is teasing me into making my own version of those trees.. THANKS A LOT FOR THE INSPIRATION.....!
I like doing my black wash much runnier and doing it second, then patting down the surface with paper towel. For color, I like to dry brush a metallic gold over top of the bark to give out a subtle greenish sheen that makes it look a little mossy or like an algae. Barely noticable. You should try it sometime. Can always just do a little at a time, and can always paint over it if you don't like it.
That was very interesting. I've never done anything like this but I think I'd like to give it try. Your instructions were excellent. Thank you.
Thanks for the awesome tutorial! I actually watched to figure out how to make the deku shield for my kid's Halloween costume but now I'm thinking my daughter and I need to make one of those gnome homes!
Just a thought (and I'm certainly no expert!).......
If people wish to make one of these and put it outside, maybe for Halloween etc, the structures can be sprayed with Matt finish clear varnish.
It takes nothing from the look of the trees and as it's Matt it's not shiny but will give a waterproof seal/coating.
Excellent technique!
I have been looking for a tree tutorial and yours is the best! I love the two options depending on the look you are trying to achieve. Am looking for your FB page next to share a photo!
this 3 part series on the fake bark is so awesome!! thankyou!! ... Was looking at the scarey tree and came here after ... love your channel!
Glad you like them and thank you so much!
Really great vids, explained in super detail, nice and neat and great how you did the two options, in a word "Brilliant".
Hey if you add a bit of dawn soap to your wash itll make that surface tension weak so itll get down into the nooks a lot easier. You can dawn or flotrol? I think its called. But its what you use if you do acrylic pours. I paint minis for dnd and I had to learn this trick to get good at details.
Thank you for this video! Im making a piece of art for my sister and couldnt figure out how to do this. Thanks so much!
with the paper towel method, i have found that if u put long creases in the foil it gives more depth to the final finish.
Francke from Brisbane
for sure.. and different kinds of paper will give a different texture too. When I first started with bark I was using actual paper, I don't know why I stopped using that. I forgot all about this little outhouse, it dates back to 2013 www.sharonojala.com/2013/08/gnome-throne-miniature-outhouse.html
Fantastic work! They look great. You are a natural for your narration and clear explanation of your process. ( I think the clay one looks abit more like authentic bark) but I think the paper towel looks easier for a first timer like me...
That's quite nice video. I have also made a hollow bark tree after watching your video. My bark is now on painting stage and has started looking gr8 already. Thanks for your tips.
that's so awesome to hear! It's always exciting to see a creation come to life in the painting stage
Spar varnish is a marine varnish for boats to protect things outside.
life interrupted...I got a job so I have not had the time as of late to work on my trunk...its killing me!!! Love yours so much!! part 1, 2, and 3 check!! xoxo stephie
ahh, life and it's many interruptions, lol well congrats on the new job! Have fun when you get a chance to build your tree xo
Both look amazing. I love the softer look of paper towel.
Thank you so much for showing us the different methods; they both turned out absolutely beautiful!
I’m decorating my hall as a forest, so I think I’ll be using the paper towel method as it’ll probably be a lot cheaper, seeing as I’m coving a lot of area. Plus stronger for the stairs banisters.
When I film it, for my Home to Hogwarts Series on my Channel, I’ll definitely give you the credit. A new Sub from me, definitely 🥰
Great video, tips for anyone watching you can get a good colour variation with dry brushing the paints on after the wet base
Just discovered this and your other tutorial on a hollow log, had a project in mind. Did a search on making a hollow log. This is perfect thanks for sharing your method
Oh wow! I love those little trunks! And both bark styles look amazing! You're so talented, you always inspire me ❤
Thank you for all your advice and sharing your experiences with us. Feeling inspired!
This is fantastic! exactly what I was looking for 😍
I used this method to make a creepy/Mystikal Halloween mask and it came out great! 🖒
Great techniques. Thank you for sharing this.
Great set of videos. Again you’ve given me inspiration for my own craft and I may even try yours for some Yule logs for family. Thanks.
wow, what a great idea! Have fun :)
Thank you. This is really helpful. Love from India. 🇮🇳
Oh wow, I am in love with your work. You are so talented and a good tutor. THANK YOU!!!!
straight to my heart, thank you so much!
I love it!!Thank you very much for for all your tips. Xxx from Australia 😘🙋♀️
My tree trunk for my tree house came out looking like a pumpkin! Its all in the paint! I wish I would have used the black tissue paper also. Will be working on it more.
just gorgeous!!! Thanks a lot for teaching us
I think that for making a weather resistant tree, the best material to use would be cement or plaster of paris
This is amazing, thank you so much for sharing your crafty knowledge! We're looking to build really big ones for a forest themed cafe, any pointers or tips for working with ones so large? Or an idea to use as the base?
Also how durable would you say this is with the clay method? Can it be around cats that might try to climb them?
I am in awe at this. I’m going to try this. I absolutely love this. So much potential for all holidays to do something with these
I'm so glad! Thank you for taking the time to comment, it means a lot :)
Fabulous!! You're terrific!
I love the look of these! Do you seal them? Will a clear acrylic spray or a liquid sealant work better??
thanks! No, I don't sell anything. You could spray them with paint for sure.. but I don't know what you mean, would a liquid sealant work better.. (better than what?)
Not sell. Seal them with a clear sealant?? A spray on sealant or a brush on varnish maybe?? Lol.
oh sorry, reading before coffee is never good, lol I don't seal the exteriors with anything. Sometimes I do put a brush on sealer on my floors and walls, but not for any purpose other than easy washing/dusting later. I prefer the brush on just because I like the look of it. I use a matte, water based varathane fpr that. If you want to seal them for going outdoors, I haven't done that myself so I don't want to offer advice on it. The best thing to do is talk to a professional at a hardware store, they will have the best advice for weatherproofing.
My bark has turned out absolutely awsome. Tq so much
If you want to make your light less bright, you should try mylar-foil. It gives a greyish spooky color. I usely take a coffee-package. NOT FOR LAMPS WHICH RADIATE A LOT OF HEAT!
Awesome, thank you!!!
How would you suggest adding hollow branches for a large tree ?
I add them by scrunching up tinfoil, hot glue the one end to the tree then masking tape over that. Make sure the masking tape covers over parts of the tree itself so it holds the branch in place. Hollow out the parts you need hollow then masking tape over all of it then work the bark materiel over top the tape.
You’re amazingly talented!!
💕💕💕
thank you so much!
Exactly what i was looking for my leshen costume.
Can you provide a video showing how you remove milk carton?
Great work ! Love it !
Love your videos! Thanks for sharing! I want to use the paper towel method to make border for my painting. Will watercolors work on the paper towel tree bark? Thank you!
Yes, they will. But I would suggest you to use color fixer after that so that it doesn't get spoiled by moisture or water. Further, simple water colors may not give you good results. But you may experiment and who knows, you may come up with better results. Good Luck.
This is great!! I just have a question (I commented on an earlier video, but in case you don't see it there): do either of these methods result in the tree being slightly flexible? Can I build a tree trunk around a paper towel roll with a slit down its length, and then pry it slightly open at the slit to fit around a narrow pole and then close it again?
Also, if anybody else has tried this method and knows the answer, please let me know :) Thanks!
sorry for the late reply! It is flexible for about a day while it continues to dry, it'll be dry to the touch but still wet underneath. But you could always build around the pole OR build it, make a slit and if it doesn't go around perfectly you can always patch any area that needs it. With both these bark methods I change my mind a lot so end up adding on after the bark is painted and dried and nobody can tell where the new bark starts and the old bark ends. I hope that helps!
@@WhereTheGnomesLive Thank you so much! Your timing is perfect actually, I was just about to try this in the coming week :D
Excellent! Some of your techniques will transfer nicely over to my bronze work! Thank you! Subbed!
thank you very much!
@@WhereTheGnomesLive Quick question for ya... Do you happen to know if silicone would stick to your bark? The reason I ask, you have a very realistic texture and that would save massive time from sculpting it in plasticine as I normally do. I suppose, a urethane coating could help with the release...
Once the bark dries, no matter the material you've used from the 2 methods, it's like any paintable surface, silicone should stick to it. But I can't guarantee that since I've never tried it....I can't see why it wouldn't though.
@@WhereTheGnomesLive I bet I can make it stick... Its getting it to release. I need to replicate the texture in silicone so I can create a wax tree. It's this wax that gets turned into bronze. I'll give it a try and will report back to you sometime. Many thanks, keep up the good work.
ohhhh I see now! Thanks for clarifying. Yes, I would love updates, if you have a fb page or blog, feel free to leave a link, I'd love to see your work!
your craft is so amazing.. I love all your videos..was raining today so I enjoyed watching so many of them...I would love to make a few for my Garden especially your hallow logs ...could these be water proofed for outdoors?..
thank you! Yes, you can seal them for outdoors, however, I've never done it myself so I suggest to talk to a professional at your local hardware store. They should know the best product to use
I personally use transparent lacquer (Matt) on such crafts. They become water proof but don't know, how they will behave outdoor. For indoor, they are good and can be washed occasionally.
Hello…I finally got the courage to try making the bark with the paper towels as a stump. I am at the point where the towels are drying and even though I have a fan on they are soft and not developing a crust, It s not paintable- should I try to get a harder surface by applying a layer of modpodge? Was my glue and water slurry too thin so it did not set up correctly. Any advice would be welcome- thank you
It takes time to dry, sometimes it can take a few days, depending on the humidity in your place. Once it’s dry to the touch you can paint it but keep in mind once you apply the paint it will soften up again but hardens once completely dry. It can take up to a week to cure. I hope that helps & don’t hesitate to message again if you have any more questions
Thank you for the reply….. I tried to donate on your page but it said that this organization is not accepting donations…. Thought you should know
Oh thank you very much for trying! That was very kind. Can I ask where you tried?
I have such a gothic personality. I actually like it better all black.
Wow you are so talented
How long can these pieces last ? beautiful.... oooo cool, you remove the carton ..
Awesome
Thank you so much...I have always wanted to do this. Do you think it would be safe as a bedhouse (treehouse) for family pets?
it's super safe for non-nibblers, if your pet tends to chew on things might be safer to ask a professional at a pet store what materials are safe.
Have you tried this with hypertufa? I’m thinking it would be cool.
I watched this to discover how to get bark colouring for woodwork. When I need to reshape a live edge, I want to fake the same colour for the part that is cut. I see how to do that now. But why would you need to construct the whole thing when you can simply go for a salubrious walk and pick up a bit of hollow log?
I started building these in 2013 and at that time wished I could find a hollow log to use. When I couldn't find one I started building my own. I became miniature maker and soon started building homes for gnomes. My builds are most always large, over 4 feet tall with many rooms inside.
I had a number of people asking me to build one a smaller scale, and to show how to build around a something. and asking what the difference between paper and clay, how long to dry and so on.
I decided to kill a bunch of birds with one video series for those who need these techniques for their own miniature worlds.
If you're interested, here is one of the larger builds using this same bark. I would never be able to find a log like this to work with www.sharonojala.com/2016/03/Dollhouse-Bed-and-Breakfast.html
I'm working on a tree stump mouse house- does the paper towel/ glue harden enough? Or do you ever add a hardener?
Hi Catherine! Oh, my gosh ! I’m also making a tree stump mouse house for my granddaughters! Two years in the making in fact. I don’t know how far along you are with your mouse house but in case you’re still wondering about the paper towel and glue method, I am almost finished with adding the “bark” and it does harden by itself. I’ve actually done two layers. I let the first layer dry completely and then go over it again a second time but that was just my own decision to do. It has worked out great! I hope this helps. Good luck!
so nice👍👍👍
Can you use a hybrid technique. With both the clay and paper towels.?
absolutely, I've done that.. works well
love this way I use air dry clay I would like to know can I use a half gallon milk jug and I want to use aluminum foil and my clay will this work ty
I haven't used air dry clay for making bark before but I can't see why it wouldn't work. If you are worried about wasting it you could try a small test patch and see how it looks after it dries.
Question…do you also water down the paints other than the black?
No, I don’t
How to create same thing for outdoors let’s say for garden but light weight and weather conditions proof ?
You can use an exterior sealer and weather proof your finished project
Thank you
Hi. Would a plastic container work with the paper towel technique?
Probably not relevant anymore haha but you can paper machè almost any surface. If it’s smooth or waxed or coated just do a light sand to remove the finish of the container and you’ll get a better surface tension for adhesion
WOW!!!
I have an ugly pipe coming out of a sump pump on the floor going up & through the side of a wall & out to the yard. I was told a box could be built around it to hide it but I'd rather turn that twisty ugly pipe into a tree branch. I still need to be able to access the lid of the sump pump on the floor should I have a need to. Is there any way to do that?
blitz4sure maybe you could make two parts and join them together with a hinge so you can open it to access it whenever you need to?
yes, you would have to make 2 pieces that fit around it. You would also have to seal it with an exterior sealer if it would be exposed to weather
Hi - do you still cover the bark with a coat of Min Wax?
no, I don't
Is this freshwater aquarium safe? If not you have a suggestion to make it aquarium safe, please help
using epoxy for a coating will probably work
AMAZING!!!!!!!! :D
can either of the logs be finished with epoxy?
I have never tried it, but I can't see why you couldn't do that. You could try a small sample first and see how it works. Good luck!
WOW! how amazing-I'm in aw right now. Thanks for sharing!!
thank you so much :)
Hello I really enjoyed watching your videos. I heard you saying you removed one of your milk cartons because the character would not fit. Would you make a video showing how to remove the milk carton please?
I just pulled it out, you can cut into it from the inside and pull, it's just held in by tape on the inside. If you take a look at the 2nd part of your question, I can't understand what it means, maybe there was auto correct or maybe you're asking if I made the inside into tree bark? If so, yes, you can do that by finishing the inside just like the outside. You can finish off the inside however you wish, you would just need to cover the tape with paper towel first (and glue) then you would have a surface you can work with.
yes it was auto correct sorry for that..... thanks for responding....
I just found your channel. Your creations are amazing! So realistic looking and what I love is this project doesn’t cost a fortune!
I was “stumped” on how to make my granddaughter’s fairy garden without buying expensive fairy houses and then I found you on CZcams. Your directions are concise and easy to understand.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH!
Şekerim keşke yapilişininda video sunu yapsaydin.
there's 3 parts to this video series. I'm not sure what you mean
Is there any way to make the bark waterproof? Spray of some sort?
I haven't done that myself so I don't want to offer advice on it. The best thing to do is talk to a professional at a hardware store, they will have the best advice for weatherproofing.
How about modge podge for outdoors ?
I wonder if glow in the dark puff Tshirt paint would make glow in the dark lichens on the trunk?.
I've used glow in the dark fabric paint before on some clay pieces I've made and they do glow. I've never used puff t-shirt paint so couldn't tell you for certain but I would guess it would
Are you Julie?