amethesyt mushrooms and a shop update to come

 

The glass is cleaned, the base is finished, and my amethyst mushrooms are finally completed.

 

This is my largest mushroom scene to date, measuring about 14.5" to the top of the glass and 10" wide at the base.

 This scene is a reflection of the darker corners of the woods.  The oft-overlooked little scenes that play out beyond our gaze.  The sort of scene you'd have to really look for in order to see it.  

Mushrooms doing their job, decaying a log beneath the moss.

 A spider taking advantage of a downed twig to catch its dinner. 

 

It seemed fitting that this darker scene have a darker base as well.  I took a large chunk of oak and planed it to size.  I applied a vinegar and steel wool solution and watched it combine with the tannins in the oak to form a dark finish.  Being careful to leave the shape organic and bumpy, I sanded the surface smooth and applied a layer of natural tung oil and local beeswax.

 

Rather than glue this scene into the base, I sewed it instead, much like I did for my 'Stepping Stones' piece.  I found that my needles weren't long enough for this job so I made one by shaping and sharpening a piece of wire.  It was by no means a fancy needle, but it did the job. (sometimes you have to do what you have to do)

 

Though I'll be putting this piece in my shop, it makes me want to keep it and build a room around it.  Stacks of books, a big leather chair, an air of mystery...

This piece, the other small terrariums, some brooches, and my 'Stepping Stones' piece (I know a few of you have asked, and I've decided to sell it) will be in my shop tomorrow morning (Fri, Apr. 12) at 7am, central time.  If you'd stop by or spread the word, I'd very much appreciate it.

Have a good day everyone!  If you're getting the snow like we are today, hang in there, spring is coming.  (keep saying it over and over...)