Behind the Heraldry: Refreshing Lonely Tower’s Roll of Arms Display
Hey heraldry friends!
You won’t believe what I’ve been diving into lately: painting heraldic devices to update the Lonely Tower’s Roll of Arms display. Yep, I’ve been the guardian of this vibrant showcase for over a decade. And guess what? Some of you have approached me at events, wondering about my crafting process. Well, I’ve heard you, and it’s time to pull back the curtain again on its artsy secrets and update my process.
So, where does the magic begin? With a paper-sized image of a member’s arms, I download it from our online Armorial on the Calontir website. It’s a digital treasure trove of heraldic wonders. Each time I need a design, I zoom in there (unless the owner moved here from another kingdom), scout out the perfect image, and give it a crisp print. I’m aiming for that 8.5×11 sweet spot.
Then comes my canvas: a hemmed white piece from my crafting stash. I trace the printed design with my game-changing digital light-pad lighting the way and trusty pencil in hand. But instead of the website’s traditional shield or escutcheon shape, I go rogue and rock it in a rectangle. It’s a tad tricky since the paint won’t hide pencil marks, but hey, a craftsperson loves a challenge! Right?
Now for a little heraldic tidbit. Since I last updated this project two of our members received an “augmentation of arms”. A grand honor in the Kingdom of Calontir!
It was a delightful challenge incorporating Calontir’s Cross of Calatrava into their heraldic designs, especially for Mistress Roise’s. But after some brainstorming and a dash of innovation, I decided to use iron-on patch material as the “canvas” for hers. Now their augmented designs shine brightly!
Next, it’s time to bring the design to life! I swirl together acrylic craft paint and fabric media – this combo ensures the design stays soft after drying. First, the light hues make their appearance, followed by the deeper shades. For the final oomph, I outline parts with a black marker. It also highlights intricate bits like feathery wings or delicate petals.
Once it’s all dry, it’s ‘stick and show’ time! I rely on velcro tape to merge my art with the venti drapery panels. These panels, stitched from sturdy white cotton ages ago, we used to hang on walls or windows. (If you’re wondering how I prepare these, I’ve detailed it in a previous post. I don’t want to repeat it and put you all to sleep.). Thanks to venue restrictions we asked Baron Charles to use his crafty genius and make wooden stands to showcase them. They’re a first for us and I love them!
Here’s something quirky about our Barony of the Lonely Tower. We don’t display the heraldic devices willy-nilly. Oh no, we prioritize by the owner’s rank. So, after the Barony’s emblem and our founding Baron the leaders that followed are placed. After the leaders, the other members are placed in order of rank according to the awards they receive. With members moving up in rank or new Barons stepping in, it means I sometimes find myself shuffling most of the arms around. A game of musical heraldry, if you will!
Lastly, when you’re at our events, peeping at our Roll of Arms, you might spot folks cheekily challenging each other on device ownership. Wondering how to check if you’ve guessed right? Just flip the device upwards – I’ve hidden the owner’s name on the back. It’s our fun, little tradition, connecting us and spreading smiles.
So happy heralding, everyone! Let’s keep the art alive and traditions fun!
Spectacular!
Thank you for your kind assessment. 🙂