2026 November Newsletter
As November arrives and we begin preparing for the holiday season, I find myself reflecting on the many things for which I am grateful. Among them is the wonderful community of painters who make Golden Spike Decorative Painters such a special organization.
Decorative painting is an art form that has been passed from one generation to another. Every technique we learn, every pattern we share, and every helping hand we extend contributes to keeping this beautiful tradition alive.
I often think that some of the best things we take home from a painting gathering aren’t necessarily the finished projects. Sometimes it’s a new friendship, a helpful tip, a good laugh, or simply the satisfaction of spending time doing something we love.
And let’s not forget that painting teaches us patience, flexibility, and occasionally how to turn an unexpected blob of paint into a strategically placed leaf!
As we enter this season of gratitude, I encourage each of you to reflect on the people who have inspired your creativity. Perhaps it’s the person who first placed a paintbrush in your hand, the teacher who encouraged you to try something difficult, or the fellow painter who reminds you that mistakes are simply opportunities for creativity.
November Brushstroke Challenge: Share a Little Gratitude!
This month, I challenge each of you to spread a little gratitude through the art of painting.
. Thank a fellow painter. Reach out to someone who has taught you a technique, encouraged your creativity, or simply made your painting journey more enjoyable.
. Make someone’s day brighter. Surprise someone with a small hand-painted gift, a thoughtful note, or a few words of encouragement.
Remember, you don’t have to create a masterpiece to make a difference. Sometimes the smallest gestures leave the most beautiful impressions.
And if you participate in the challenge, we’d love to hear about it at our next gathering! Let’s celebrate not only what we create, but also the kindness and friendships we share along the way.
Thank you for being part of Golden Spike Decorative Painters and for helping make our club a welcoming place where creativity and friendship flourish.
May your November be filled with gratitude, laughter, friendship, and just enough paint on your hands to remind you that you’ve been doing something wonderful.
Happy Painting!
LeeAnn
2026 Seminars and Paint-ins
2027 Seminars and Paint-ins
January 16th (Saturday) – LeeAnn Washatka – Painted Bag
Christmas Raffles
This year at our Christmas Party we will again be having a special raffle. It will be large wooden bucket filled with lots of goodies, including paper towels, graphite paper, tracing paper, JoSonja paint set, paint mediums, brushes, tools, several Christmas patterns, some with the wood included and more.
Bring a completed Project to show off during our monthly Paint-in. You will receive a raffle ticket (1 per Paint-in) to be eligible to win a special prize at the end of the year. The project must have a completed date of 2026.
Even if you are not attending the regular class, bring any UFO (unfinished object) you might have and paint it during our regular Paint-in.
Chapter Dues
It's time to pay 2027 GSDP dues ($15). Checks can be made out to Golden Spike Decorative Painters and mailed to the GSDP care of Pat Reeder at 470 W 4900 S, Washington Terrace, UT 84405.
Teacher: LeeAnn Washatka
Palette: DecoArt Americana
Paint Adhesion (This is no longer available for retail purchase. LeeAnn has bottles available for $2.00 each).
Prep:
Cost: GSDP will give everyone who attends $10 in cash toward their meal, you will be responsible for the balance.
The Party will be held at the December 13th (Saturday) at Wingers (743 N Main Street, Clearfield, UT).
Meal Choices:
Teacher: LeeAnn Washatka
GSDP 's mission is to educate the community on the traditions of decorative folk art painting and to preserve these cultural legacies for future generations. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive space to connect, create and inspire one another while fostering a vibrant community.
