How To

Your portfolio is less about your art than about making money from your art. If you're aiming for a show in a major art market -- Santa Fe, New York or Los Angeles, for example -- you'll need more than your dozen favorite gouaches in a big, leather case. You'll also need an artist's statement, a résumé, a logo, business cards, large photos of your work, custom stationery and a self-promoting DVD, all beautifully arranged in a custom presentation folder that you can force into a gallery manager's hand. You'll also want to carry around a portfolio case with original examples of your work.

Things You'll Need

•     Artist's statement
•     Logo
•     Business cards
•     Custom stationery
•     Custom 9-by-12-inch presentation folders
•     Résumé
•     Digital camera
•     8-by-10-Inch photos of your most photogenic art
•     5-Minute video

Instructions

1. Write an artist's statement. This statement should be a one-page essay, written in the first person, that explains your artistic ideas, how you express them and your grandest goals.  
   
   
2. Design a logo and incorporate that logo into the design of a business card, custom stationery and a custom 9-by-12-inch presentation folder. Both the cards and the folders must include your contact information. Have the cards and the presentation folders printed professionally.
   
   
3. Write a résumé that summarizes your life experiences, academic training and artistic successes.
   
   
4. Print your résumé and artist's statement on your custom stationery. Put a business card, a copy of your artist's statement and a copy of your résumé in each folder.
   
   
5. Photograph all your art with a digital camera and print out all the images in both black and white and in color. Pick at least 12 images that show the range of your work and look great as photographs. Print 8-by-10-inch copies of those images on good photo paper, and put sets of them in each presentation folder.
   
   
6. Produce a 5-minute video of yourself working at your art and talking about you and your art. Duplicate your video on video discs that have your name, logo and contact information printed on them. Put a disc in each presentation packet.
   
   
7. Buy a good-quality leather 23-by-31-inch artist's portfolio case. Keep presentation packets and extra video discs and business cards in one of the portfolio pockets.
   
   
8. Create works on paper, foam, masonite and board specifically for your portfolio. Create works you know you can do well; create images of the same subject or scene in multiple styles and media.
   
   
9. Put the works you create specifically for your portfolio, and any of your favorite works that will fit, in the other pocket of your portfolio case.

Things You'll Need

•     Artwork
•     Digital camera or scanner
•     Computer
•     Internet connection
•     Account on an electronic portfolio website

Put artwork into digital form

The art work of graphic designers, digital videographers and photographers will most likely already be in digital form. However, analog artwork such as paintings, film photography and sculptures will need to be represented on a digital file. To begin, place the artwork in a room with diffused, natural light so that the inherent properties of the piece show through, and so that the coloring is accurate.    

Take a digital photo of the piece. Repeat this as many times as needed to get a quality image. Continue this process until all of the artwork has been photographed. 

If the art is primarily two-dimensional, like photographs or small paintings, a scanner can also be used to capture digital images of the artwork. Scan each piece until all of the artwork is represented in digital form.

Create a Profile on an Online Portfolio Service   

Artists can use several online services, like Behance and Carbonmade, to showcase their work. Most are free or very inexpensive. Any of the blogging platforms can be formatted to host an artist's portfolio as well. Research the platform that best suits the artwork, and follow the instructions on the website to create a profile.  

Once the profile is created, the artist can then begin uploading the digital images of the artwork that were created earlier. The online portfolio services allow artists to highlight certain pieces, and group them into collections.  

After the artist has uploaded and organized the art, it is time to publicize the portfolio. The purpose of the portfolio will not be fulfilled unless the community at large sees it. One way artists can make this happen is to link the portfolio to any existing social media platforms in which they already participate.

Enter a piece from the portfolio, or the entire portfolio, in a contest to increase visibility. A quick search of the Web will provide many opportunities for artists to enter their art into an online contest. Even if the artist does not win a prize, her art is still visible as traffic is driven to the site to view the contestants' entries.

Keep the electronic portfolio current by adding new artwork as it is produced. Also, occasionally rotate the collection to highlight different themes so that it always appears to be evolving.

Tips for Presenting Your Portfolio at U.S. Art Schools

Your portfolio shows what you do as a designer, illustrator or fine artist. It contains your best work, professionally displayed and assembled into a hand-carried or mailable format.   It is your essential tool of communication and plays an important part in all art program admissions processes.  

When assembling a portfolio, it is important to remember that every school will have different submission guidelines for applicants.   Be sure to contact each school’s admissions department to obtain their particular requirements and then tailor your portfolio for each interview accordingly.   The following outline provides very general portfolio guidelines and some similarities and differences in portfolios for different types of artists.   

Portfolio Content

Research schools to see what type of work will be appropriate to include in the portfolio.   Some schools will be interested in the full scope of your background, but some specialized programs may be interested solely in the type of work the program focuses on. Show only your best work. Quality is better than quantity.   Be able to talk confidently about your work and to explain it if asked.

Observational work

Observational work is frequently the central part of a school’s portfolio requirements. Observational work can be drawing, painting or collage done from a still life, figure model or landscape.

Personal work

” Personal work” can include any work that you create on your own in a medium and style that demonstrate your strengths. Included in this category are animation, photography, graphic design, film, video, sculpture, etc. This is an opportunity to show off your unique abilities.

Portfolio Presentation

Depending on the type of work that you do and the schools to which you are applying, the way in which you present the work in your portfolio may vary substantially.   Some schools will only accept 35mm slides of art work while some will only want to see the original (i.e. actual) art itself.   Often, however, the applicant must decide which presentation format best serves their work. For example, a media designer's portfolio might consist solely of some combination of videotape, CDROM or floppy discs. A fine artist's portfolio might contain original work (if two dimensional and not too large), 35mm slides, color prints and/or display transparencies of large or three-dimensional work. Significant articles or reviews, in protective pages, might be placed at the end of the portfolio.

Depending on the presentation format of your work, your portfolio case can also vary widely in appearance. A soft zippered case with a ring binder and removable acetate sleeves is a popular, flexible format, as is a hard case containing loose acetate page sleeves. Whatever the format, the case should be of manageable size, easy to carry and able to protect work well. It should be easy to open and operate.

Work should be presented cleanly and simply. Use high-quality pages and page protectors. Use only as many pages as necessary to show your best work. Do not leave empty pages in the back. For this reason, a ring binder or portfolio that contains removable pages is much more flexible that one with fixed plastic sleeves.

Don’t use distracting colors or patterns behind your portfolio pieces. Many portfolios come supplied with black or gray inserts, which can be replaced with a color of your choice, but backgrounds should enhance your work, not draw attention away from it.

You will need to present large or three-dimensional work using 35 mm slides, display transparencies or color prints. Check with the school to find out which they prefer.   Slides should presented be in acetate sleeves or pages. Include a separate printed slide index listing any relevant information for each piece, such as size of original and medium.   Label each slide with your name, and contact information.   Keep at least one master set of slides in case a set gets lost or damaged.   Only submit clear, focused slides. Color prints or display transparencies are placed in vinyl or mylar pages and presented consistently.

All work should be labeled and your name and contact information should appear on the reverse of each piece.   If submitting original artwork, be sure to document it especially if you are mailing the portfolio and will not be present at the interview.

Portfolio Organization

•     Place your best work first and last
•     Group work according to subject and content
•     Place targeted work first, published or “famous” work second (if present)

Mailing Your Portfolio

If you are mailing your portfolio to the school and will not be present at the portfolio review, it is even more important that each piece of work is labeled, and, especially in the case of original work, documented.   If you can, try to avoid sending original work in the mail. 

Make sure that you have packaged the portfolio case securely against damage and weather, and insure it. Also make sure that you comply with any requirements the school has in terms of providing return postage.  

How to Mount Art for a Portfolio

Mounting your artwork in your portfolio exudes professionalism. As an artist, your portfolio is the most important step toward landing a job and getting your artwork seen by the public. Your portfolio may have accumulated over the years, but should be in good shape rather than reflecting a particular artwork's age. To best present your portfolio, you may choose to mount your art against paper or a matte board. With mounted art, your portfolio will look more professional and up your chances of landing a gig. 

Things You'll Need

•     Cutting tool
•     Ruler
•     Mounting paper or matte board
•     Double-sided tape

Instructions

1. Prepare the artwork by ensuring its corners are clean and crisp. Use a cutting tool and ruler to trim the sides of your piece of rough corners. 
   
   
2. Cut the mounting paper or matte board to the right size for your artwork. Use the ruler to leave 1/2-inch to 1-inch border around your piece.  Apply the double-sided tape to mount your art to the backing. 
   
   
3. Remove the vinyl sleeves from your portfolio and mount your artwork centered in the page using the tape. 

Makeup is an important part of most women's daily routine. Cosmetics are an essential part of most women's everyday lives, so most women carry some key makeup items with them when they leave home. Traveling on holiday or overnight trips requires carrying more of your makeup with you. A train case helps you organize your cosmetics for easy access while traveling and at your destination. However, a travel organizer that is lightweight, sturdy, organized and suits your needs can be difficult to find. If you can't find one that suits your needs, make your own by following a few simple tips.

Things You'll Need

•     Small toolbox
•     Spray paint
•     Ribbon

Instructions

1. Purchase a small plastic toolbox that has a carrying handle and multiple compartments. These can be found at hardware and home improvement stores. Choose a toolbox that is sturdy but lightweight and provides easy access to its compartments. 
   
   
2. Use spray paint to give your toolbox a new look and make it look less like a toolbox. You can choose any color. However, a dark and opaque color such as gray, blue or black will better conceal the original color of the box and also match most luggage colors. Let the toolbox dry thoroughly after painting before putting your items in it.  
   
   
3. Wrap a ribbon around the carrying handle to give your makeup train case a decorative look. Arrange your makeup inside your new makeup train case, placing items in easily visible compartments. Include makeup, brushes, makeup remover and cotton pads for your convenience.

Tips & Warnings

1. You can also use small sewing containers, bead containers or fishing tackle boxes for your homemade makeup train case. These usually have compartments in them.
   
   
2. Transfer makeup from larger bottles and containers to smaller ones to keep your makeup case organized and light while traveling.
   
   
3. Ensure that you use spray paint in a well-ventilated area away from open flames or heat sources. If you are traveling by plane, make sure your makeup case does not contain any fluids or liquids over the allowed amount. Do not carry sharp items such as scissors or shaving blades in your case.

Hats are a fun way to dress up your look and keep your head warm. Making your own hat is a creative art project that you can wear or give as a gift. Cloth hats are more simple to make than knitted ones and can be made with limited sewing skills. You can make a children's or baby's hat with rabbit ears for a unique gift idea.

Things You'll Need

•     Light gray felt or fleece cloth
•     Small pieces white felt or fleece cloth
•     Hat pattern
•     Scissors
•     Sewing machine
•     Needle and thread
•     2 small to medium sized buttons

Instructions

1. Use a hat pattern or a ready-made hat to cut the pieces for the base of the hat. Form a rounded cloth hat base from four long triangular shapes of gray cloth. Attach the triangles by sewing their points together to form the top of the hat with the needle and thread. Sew the sides of the triangles to form the sides of the hat using a sewing machine or by hand with a needle and thread. Hem the circular border of the hat with the needle and thread. Turn the hat right-side out, so the sewn edges are on the inside. The hat base should sit just above the baby's ears and slightly over the forehead.   
      
2. Use a gray piece of felt to make the main part of the bunny ears. Fold the piece of gray cloth over so that it is doubled. Draw or trace the ears onto the cloth, then cut them out of both pieces of cloth, so you have two matching ears. Use the white cloth to make the inner ears. Fold the piece of white cloth to have two layers and draw a rabbit ear that is smaller than the gray ears. Cut out the ear shape, so that you have two white inner ears. 
       
3. Sew a white inner ear onto the gray out ear. This makes the ears thicker, so that they stand up somewhat. Attach the ears to the top of the hat at either side by sewing them on with the needle and thread. You can also sew two buttons at the front of the hat to make rabbit eyes.

Tips & Warnings

1. You can also make other animal hats by using different colors of cloth and varying shapes to make the ears. For example, use orange, white and black felt or fleece cloth to make a tiger hat and use rounded ears and brown cloth to make a bear cub hat.
   
   
2. Larger animal hats can be made for a child's Halloween costume.
   
   
3. If you attach buttons to the hat, sew them on securely. If they fall off, they can be choking hazards for the baby. Use cloth made of breathable and natural materials, such as cotton and wool, when making hat.

Things You'll Need

•     Shelving
•     Ladder or clothes drying stand
•     Branches, vases, cake stands and other display holders

Instructions

1. Display your products to draw customer attention. Assess your product and the message you would like buyers to receive when they see it. For example, is it a fun line of casual clothing, delicately made unique jewelry, or handmade soaps and skin creams that would appeal to environmentally conscious individuals? The display case should encompass these marketing messages.
   
   
2. Choose displays with coordinating colors and designs that complement the packaging of your product. Try using a stand-up outdoor clothesline with wooden clothespins to show off your line of fun, casual clothing, in a window display. An old barn ladder can be used to hold natural handmade soaps and skin creams in a shop. Line or stack the items on the steps of the ladder. Try placing soaps or other items in a glass domed cake platter or on a tiered dessert stand to make interesting counter displays.
   
   
3. Use minimalist displays to show smaller items such as delicate jewelry. Purchase a standing shelf with glass shelves to organize and hold the boxed jewelry. In a window display, use black velvet cloth to spotlight a ring, bracelet or necklace. Try creative methods to display costume jewelry such as placing a large tree branch in a pot and hanging necklaces and beaded bracelets on the twigs to make an eye-catching window display.

Tips & Warnings

1. Keep displays at eye level to ensure easy access and visibility for buyers. Also, place items on counters. Use glass cases, mirrors and bright lights to make your product more appealing. Change your displays regularly by using different decorative items such as holiday accessories.
   
   
2. Make sure your product displays are sturdy and safe. Bolt shelves and ladders to the floor and walls to prevent customers from tipping them over. Additionally, keep flammable materials like branches away from heat sources.

Things You'll Need

•     Homosote or thin plywood
•     Fasteners
•     2 by 3 studs
•     Paint or stain
•     A saw
•     A screw gun
•     Drill bits
•     Paint or stain

Thoroughly think through all aspects of design and application.

Design the panel system. Panels using the standard 4 by 8 size of the homosote sheets are the easiest to make but this size may be too big for easy transport. Decide on the panel sizes.

Doing it yourself is budget friendly and empowering.

Cut the materials and frame the panels. Any chosen size will work. Two 4 by 4 panels linked together at a right angle will work well. Cut the 4 by 8 homosote sheet in half. Frame the vertical panel ends with longer supporting frame members that will hold the panel aloft. Cut two 2 by 3's to a length of 78 inches. Cut two 2 by 3's to a length of 43 inches. Frame the 4 by 4 panels using the two 78 inch side members. Line up the 78 inch 2 by 3's flush on the top with the other end extending 30 inches beyond the panel. These two pieces of wood will hold the panel at viewing height. Frame the top and bottom of the panels with the 43 inch 2 by 3's. Do this again with the second panel. Once framed, drill and screw or bolt the two panels together at a right angle. The panels can be hinged together to make a folding system but this structure is less stable if accidentally bumped during presentation. A very stable configuration for two-sided viewing is an "H" form using three longer rectangle panels fastened at the middle of the two side panels. Fastening the panels together by using a method of drilling and screwing is an easy way to make deconstruction for transport possible. Using a system of fastening that bolts together may seem like more work in the beginning but will be more practical in the long term.

Make panel sizes that you can handle

Construct the feet for a free standing panel by cutting two 3 foot lengths of 2 by 3 and screw or nail in the middle perpendicular to the bottom of the longer side supports. These "feet" will sit flat on the floor extending out 15 inches on both sides to stabilize the free standing panel. A 45-degree structural support or angle irons will need to be fastened at the bottom between the "foot" and the vertical support "legs" on both sides of the two 78 inch standing panel support members.

How to Resurface a Jacuzzi

A bathroom jacuzzi adds value to your home. A jacuzzi is considered a luxury addition to any bathroom and can add value to the sale of your home. It typically consists of a larger than average bathtub that contains jetted water pumps to provide a relaxing water massage. Most jacuzzi tubs are lined with an enamel finish that can become stained, chipped or worn away with use. Some jacuzzis are also lined with ceramic or porcelain tiles that can be replaced. Resurfacing your jacuzzi is an economical and environmentally-friendly way to renew your bathroom. You can purchase an enamel refinishing kit, a tiling kit or have a professional resurface your jacuzzi for you.

Things You'll Need

•     Tub enamel resurfacing kit
•     Hand or electrical sander
•     Rust removal kit

Instructions

1. Purchase a jacuzzi tub refinishing kit in a matching color to the original tub or a new color if you wish. Use a hand sander or an electrical sander to remove any uneven surfaces or peeling in the tub. If you have rust spots or patches in your jacuzzi, purchase a rust removing kit. 
      
2. Prepare the surface of the jacuzzi tub by thoroughly cleaning it to remove dust and mildew then letting it dry. Clean and dry the tub again after sanding it. 
      
3. Apply a test patch to the jacuzzi tub and allow it to set according to the instructions on the enamel resurfacing kit. If the results are satisfactory, complete resurfacing the enamel of the tub.

Tips & Warnings

1. It may be better to hire a professional to resurface your jacuzzi if you are not experienced in home renovation and construction.
   
   
2. Enamel resurfacing kits contain toxic compounds that can be harmful if inhaled. Wear gloves and a protective mask when applying the enamel. Also ventilate the bathroom by opening windows and move any heat or open flame sources away from the tub.

Things You'll Need

•     Dress
•     Skirt
•     Blouse
•     Strappy heels
•     Purse or clutch
•     Jewelry
•     Button-down shirt
•     Nice jacket
•     Nice slacks
•     Dress shoes
•     Watch

Female

1. Stick to a mixture of cocktail attire and business casual when trying to pick out things to wear. A more conservative little black dress may be appropriate for an art opening. Also opt for a simple but elegant blouse paired with either a pair of nice slacks or a skirt.
   
   
2. Go for a more casual look by pairing a long-sleeve button-down shirt with a pair of tweed or wool slacks and a pair of strappy heels. Keep colors simple as to not upstage the artist at his opening.  
   
   
3. Pull your hair back into an elegant bun or up-do. Or, leave your hair down but styled nicely. Keep makeup simple and wear only a couple pieces of jewelry so you're not too flashy. Carry a small purse or clutch that goes with your outfit.

Male

1. Wear a suit and tie for a more formal look. If you don't want to be too formal, a neutral or pale-colored shirt with a nice jacket like a dark blazer, tailored suit jacket or tweed jacket.
   
   
2. Match your top with a pair of fitted wool slacks, or a nice pair of khakis or fitted dress pants. You want to look put together and not messy, so fit is key. If you need a belt, look for a simple leather belt in black or brown to go with your outfit.
   
   
3. Dress in dark-colored loafers or leather shoes with the rest of your business casual look. Add in a conservative watch as a stylish accessory. Finish your look by styling your hair in a comfortable way. Keep your facial hair well-groomed and neat.

Tips & Warnings

1. The mild Los Angeles weather will allow you to get away with not wearing a heavy winter coat or other cold weather accessories.
   
   
2. Don't show up in flip flops, sneakers, jeans or shorts to an art opening.

Things You'll Need

•     Fleece or other warm fabric
•     Leather or other nonslip material
•     Sizing shoes
•     Ruler
•     Scissor
•     Sewing machine
•     Needle and thread

Instructions

1. Find or purchase thick, warm fleece or other material for the upper portion of the slipper and suede, leather or other nonslip material for the soles of the slippers. Trace the desired foot size by using an old pair of shoes or slippers. Lay the right and left shoe or slipper on the sueded material and trace around it to form the two soles of the slippers. Cut the soles out, leaving 1/2 to 1 inch of extra material around the entire shape to provide room for sewing. 
   
   
2. Draw out the upper portions of the slippers on to the fleece fabric, in a U-shaped piece to fit around the toes and cover the upper part of the feet. Leave another U- or O-shaped opening at the ankle area for the foot to slide into the slipper. Cut out the upper piece of one slipper and use it as a pattern to trace the second piece to ensure they are the same size.
   
   
3. Sew the two portions of the right slipper together using your sewing machine. Repeat with the left slipper. To ensure that they are securely attached, sew a second seam on each slipper. Finish by attaching a ribbon or embellishments onto the slippers, if desired.

Tips & Warnings

1. You can also use an old sweater to make slippers. Make warmer slippers by using a boot-like pattern that covers the ankles.
   
   
2. Use material that will not shrink when washed to get more use out of the slippers. If you use leather or suede for the soles of the slipper, they will not be washable. Try other nonslip materials such as rubberized fabric or rough corduroy to make the slippers more durable.
   
   
3. Use a thick needle when sewing through heavy fabrics to avoid breaking the sewing needle.