Creative tips from Chalk-it! artist Sheri Herchenroder
I use cotton swabs and cotton balls to apply cube chalk. My favorite swabs are pointy on one end and flat on the other. You can usually find them at the dollar store. The flat end is great for spreading chalk in a swiping motion and the pointy end will allow you to get into tight corners. For rainbow effects I use a cotton ball and just swipe the color across the artwork, one color at a time.
If you make a mistake with chalk, simple erase it away! A white eraser is a chalk artist's best friend.
If you want to see a sample of the color on the paper, flip over your chalk-it and experiment on the backside. This is a great way to see if the colors will blend well or if you will get the effect you're aiming for.
It's OK to color outside the lines! As a matter of fact, it actually looks better! When I chalk I go up and over the black artwork lines that border each piece of art. That way when I cut them out, the color extends to the cut line. it is much easier to chalk first and then cut, than to go back and have to add chalk to the edges to soften any harsh white borders.
After chalking your artwork, consider rubbing it with chalk enhancer (from Craft-T) for a watercolor effect or metallic rubs (from Jacard). For a slightly raiser, shiny effect try Crystal Lacquer (from Sakura or Plaid) or glitter glue (from Ranger). These are final effects and should be done AFTER chalking.
Personally, I don't seal my chalk art. If you are concerned about transfer (although I've never had this problem) you can buy spray fixative at an art supply store. For non-archival applications (such as cards) you can also use aerosol hairspray.
Above all else, just have fun.
Sheri
