If you’ve searched for “button art” on Pinterest or Google Images chances are you’ve run into the gorgeous detailed button art creations by Belle Papiers. They are usually very detailed for 1-layered button art which personally blows me away. The colorful shading and the lines are so defined around each object it makes it hard to believe it was created with buttons – and crystals! She does use Swarovski rhinestones in her work, which definitely makes them sparkle. My personal favorite from her Etsy shop is the crescent moon and the stars design! I also really appreciate the portrait of Miss Piggy 🙂 Read on for our interview with Belle Papiers!
Tell us a little bit about yourself, where you’re from and what you do!
My name is Laura Bell and I live in Scottsdale, Arizona with my husband, Ryan. I am a full-time artist and create art with Swarovski crystals and buttons. I am also very passionate in creating unique calligraphy art.
How did your creative relationship with buttons begin?
My creative relationship with buttons began about 4 years ago. At the time, I was very into mixed media and was using all kinds of beads and embellishments in my work. I created an ocean wave out of beads and embellishments and my girlfriend saw it. She asked me to make her a monogram for her daughter in the style of the wave but with buttons as the main focus. I was hooked and have been obsessed (to put it lightly) with buttons ever since!
What is the longest you’ve spent on one of your creations?
The longest I have spent on a button piece is 106 hours.
What are some buttons you are in love with right now? Whether its color, style or brand!! Share it with us…
I am completely in love with all buttons, of course, but right now I am loving anything that is light mint in color. I am also loving buttons that have interesting cutouts or designs in them. I can never get over how such a small object can be its own intricate piece of art. La Mode buttons are my go-to favorites for general buttons that are also unique and pretty, and come in beautiful colors.
Where do you go to find buttons to add to your collection?
When shopping for buttons, I spend an embarrassing amount of time in craft stores… I also shop online at your store! Estate sales are also a favorite place of mine to hopefully find buttons. When I do find them, they are always vintage and one-of-a-kind.
Do you have any crafty or artist tools that you cannot live without?
A tool that I cannot live without is my wax pick-up stick. It is the only way that I can successfully place tiny items perfectly in my work.
Do you have any advice for those just learning or attempting to make button art?
Advice I can give those starting out in button art is patience. When people create button art for the first time, I think that they are very surprised at how long it can take to complete a piece. Patience is the key.
Where can we find you online? Facebook, website, etc.
Main Website: http://www.BellePapiers.com. Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bellepapiers.
Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/bellepapiers. My Traditional Art: laura-bell.artistwebsites.com
Cricket has a passion for creativity and is always on the lookout for something unique. You will find anything from button art to creative ways to use our buttons. She is an admirer of art as a whole and enjoys sharing works from other button artists. If you are interested in sharing your button art with us please send us a message on Twitter or Instagram and Cricket will get back to you!