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GUILLIAN'S EGGS - THE PROCESS |
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| I use only real eggshells and, outside of laying the eggs, I am responsible for the entire creative process. I blow each egg, rinse and thoroughly dry it; then pencil an original design on the shell. When I like what I see, I paint and/or ink on the color. The next stage is a coat of varathane which protects the paint and makes it pleasingly glossy, as well as strengthening the shell itself. | |
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Finally, I transform them into hanging eggs by using a special needle to run waxed thread through the entire egg, top to bottom. The end product is very sturdy and will probably outlast the artist... |
| Every hand painted egg is signed and dated. Each finished painting is unique, even if the design is the same, as every eggshell differs in shape and size. (Check it out - when you go offline, go take a look in your refrigerator!) | |
| EGG STANDS | |
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the exception of the emu eggs, all of my eggs are hanging. If you wish, the thread
may be removed, thereby instantly transforming them into "sitting" eggs.
Of course, then you'll need an egg stand. I've found through experience that any candle holder will comfortably hold an egg. Slender brass candlesticks from India make particularly striking egg stands and are generally easy to find at CostPlus or other import stores. Napkin rings of all types also work well. Although a little chunkier and less elegant than candlesticks, they are very sturdy and some may be decorated with your own designs. |
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| When it comes to displaying hanging eggs, a Christmas tree remains my personal favorite. I've also used corkscrew willow branches stuck in a tub of sand, and many of my houseplants have served double duty as display areas. If you fasten an ornament hook to the thread, you'll find that they'll hang just about anywhere. The weakest branches will bear them, as they are so lightweight. I've also seen wire stands for displaying single Christmas ornaments, as well as wire stands for hanging tea cups. Cup hooks are also handy. If you're still at a loss, you could always try wearing them as earrings! | |
| As for the emu eggs, I'm still working on the situation. So far, I've found that tea cups and wide bracelets or armbands work just fine. | |
| TIP: If you're concerned about the possibility of an egg being accidentally knocked off its candlestick, you can paint a light coat of rubber cement inside the rim of the holder and/or on the bottom of the egg. The varathane doesn't react adversely to the rubber cement, which can be easily rubbed off if you change your mind. HOWEVER, I haven't tried this with any other finishes, so I can only safely recommend this method for use with my eggs. | |
| If you keep your eyes and imagination open while roaming garage sales and second-hand shops, you will discover unique ways to display your unique eggs. | |
