ScrawlrBox February 2024 Review: Pirate Art Project Reveal

Unboxing the Redesigned ScrawlrBox

The February ScrawlrBox arrives in striking craft-colored packaging, signaling ScrawlrBox's design overhaul. The new box features convenient pull-tab opening instead of traditional tape—though the artist notes the logo placement could be more prominent. Inside, the redesigned dimensions create a fresh presentation experience. ScrawlrBox now partners with Trees for the Future, planting one tree per box sold, adding environmental value to your art subscription.

Featured Artist and Supplies Breakdown

This month's box showcases Rob Draper's "Create More" project, featuring his intricate pirate-themed artwork. The carefully curated supplies include:

• White Uni-ball Signo Gel Pen: Ideal for toned paper work with smooth application
• Stick-It Glue Pen: Permanent adhesive requiring careful application
• Plant-Based Compostable Glitter: 100% eco-friendly gold glitter (skin-safe but not lip-safe)
• Gold Metallic Pencil: 4B graphite core in luxury casing
• Pitt Artist Pens Set: Four versatile ink liners (bullet and brush tips)
• Textured Toned Paper: Heavyweight sheets perfect for mixed media
• Mini Sketchbook: Encouraging daily creative practice

The artist emphasizes practical insights: Gel pens perform best with light pressure, while the glue pen works best in thick applications despite its "precision" labeling. These professional observations help users avoid common frustrations.

Step-by-Step Pirate Art Creation

Conceptualizing the Treasure Scene

After testing supplies on the box itself, the artist develops a pirate standing on gold coins concept. Key planning considerations include:

• Composition challenges: Adjusting character height relative to treasure piles
• Historical costume research: Balancing poofy sleeves with practical pirate elements
• Contrast planning: Strategizing black ink placement against metallic elements

Inking Techniques and Texture Application

Using the Pitt pens strategically creates depth:

1. Bullet tip for precise facial features and fine details
2. Brush tip for filling large black areas like boots and hat
3. Pattern creation adding historical flair to sleeves and pants
4. White gel pen accents creating highlights on metal and fabric

Pro tip: Apply white ink before glitter to prevent smudging. The textured paper holds both mediums exceptionally well.

Glitter Application Process

The plant-based glitter transforms the treasure scene:

1. Apply glue thickly to gold areas (coins, chest, belt buckles)
2. Sprinkle glitter immediately before glue dries
3. Tap paper gently to distribute glitter evenly
4. Reapply glue/glitter to patchy sections
5. Avoid touching until completely dry (20+ minutes)

The artist discovered: Glitter obscures underlying ink details, so position it strategically rather than over intricate linework. Despite the applicator's limitations, the final sparkle effect delivers impressive dimension.

Key Takeaways and Artistic Insights

This box excels in theme execution and material quality. The 4B gold pencil offers smooth shading, while the eco-glitter sets a new standard for sustainable art supplies. Two notable industry shifts observed:

1. Plant-based alternatives replacing conventional art materials
2. Ethical partnerships like tree-planting becoming standard

The permanent glue pen, while messy, creates strong bonds when used correctly—though its wide nib requires careful control. For best results: Apply glue in dots rather than lines for better precision.

Actionable Art Project Checklist

1. Sketch composition lightly with gold pencil
2. Ink major shapes with brush pens first
3. Add fine details with bullet tip pens
4. Apply white gel pen highlights before glitter
5. Use coin-sized glue dots for treasure piles
6. Seal excess glitter in bag for future projects

Final Artwork Analysis

The completed pirate scene demonstrates how specialty supplies elevate artwork. The glitter creates authentic gold texture impossible to achieve with paint alone, while toned paper makes white ink pop dramatically. Strategic contrast between matte black ink and reflective glitter becomes the piece's strongest visual asset.

"This box reminded me how material experimentation fuels creativity," the artist reflects. "The glitter's messiness became part of the joyful process."

What unconventional material would you pair with these supplies? Share your mixed-media ideas below! For new subscribers, ScrawlrBox offers this pirate-ready kit while supporting reforestation—a rare art supply win-win.