Goodbye Curvy Dies

 These lovely dies haven't been around too long, but they've definitely been a favorite of mine.  They just add so much to the looks of a card.  Instead of just having the card split in two by cardstock and DSP in a straight line, this set of dies gives you not only a curvy edge but two different fancy edgings also.  Of course the die set also has a coordinating stamp set that is also retiring.  It's called Quite Curvy with wonderful words that follow the curve of the dies.  Plus the stamp set has adorable birds and a leafy swag to round out this versatile set.  I'm so sorry to see this set on the retiring list.  If you don't have it already, you might want to give it some consideration.  ;)

Because I couldn't decide which way I wanted to make this card, I went ahead and made two versions.  So that means I needed to share two versions too!  Both versions started with a card base of Merry Merlot and a layer of the absolutely gorgeous Fine Art Floral Designer Paper.  The paper is printed to look like the texture of oil painting and always makes me want to touch!  I just love this DSP and the colors it embraces.  Oh, yes, it's also retiring.  I will surely hate to see this go!

The layering cardstock for this version is Very Vanilla.  I used the Painted Texture 3D Embossing Folder on this to mimic the DSP, and then used a Blending Brush with Rococo Rose ink to make the texture stand out even more.  It also softens the Very Vanilla so the contrast with the DSP isn't so harsh.

The DSP was then die-cut with the dotted-edge curve and attached to the Vanilla layer with adhesive.

Here you can see a closer view with the dotted edging.  Isn't it a nice, clean addition to the card?  It has visual appeal without being too ostentatious.  (oooh, love those big words.)

The next step was deciding what sentiment to use.  The hello stamp is from the Quite Curvy set and was perfect for what I wanted for my card.  I stamped it on Very Vanilla cardstock using Merry Merlot ink.  Then it was die-cut with a small label from the Ornate Frames Dies set.  The Merry Merlot layer behind it was die-cut from another die from the same set.

I wanted to add a bit of greenery behind the sentiment, so I cut several greenery sprigs using a die from the Curvy Dies set.  I couldn't decide if I liked the Old Olive or Mossy Meadow green better, so I used them both on this and that was the best compromise!  On this card, the sprigs are layered between the top and bottom labels.  The whole thing was attached to the card front using Dimensionals.

Ok, moving on to the second version...  The background layer was changed from Very Vanilla to Blushing Bride.  It was also embossed with the Painted Texture 3D Embossing Folder, but the ink color blended onto it was changed to Merry Merlot with a very light touch.  And that's so easy to do with the Blending Brushes.  I'm always surprised at how light a color you can achieve on your cardstock even when using a very deep intense color like Merry Merlot.  Just remember to "tap off" and use swirling motions to achieve this look.

The next change on this was the different curvy die to cut the DSP.  Much more fancier than the first version.  It's great having options so you can change your look to suit your mood.

Here you can see it much better again.  

The sentiment layers and colors are the same as the first version.  The only change on this was part of the greenery sprigs were attached to the back of the Merry Merlot layer.  Small change, but I liked it better that way on this one.

There was also a small bit of Petal Pink Metallic Edged Ribbon tucked under the sentiment layers.  It was just a pretty feminine addition to this card.

I forgot to mention the darling little Butterfly Gems used on both cards.  I chose to use the Rococo Rose ones in both sizes.  I'm always surprised at how much they sparkle on the card.  The facets do a great job of reflecting the light when the card is moved.

There you have it for today - 2 versions of cards using some really awesome products that are on their way out.  Needed to give them a little more love.  I have a feeling I'll be happily using the Quite Curvy stamp set and the Curvy Dies for a good long while anyway.  They are just too versatile to give them up!

If you'd like to place an order this month, please consider using me for your demonstrator.  Also feel free to use the April Host Code shown here.  I love my customers and like to spoil them with cards and goodies.  I'd like to count you as one of my customers too!  Thanks to all who have already ordered this month.  I'm already working on what I'll be sending out to you after the 1st of the month.

Thank you so much for stopping by today.  Feel free to leave me a comment on what you think about the cards I've shared with you.  The feedback is very helpful.  Plus anyone that leaves a comment will be entered into a drawing at the end of the month to receive the Punch Party set from me.  Lots of fun packed in that little set, so don't forget to comment!  And don't forget to add your name!!

Stay well and may God bless you!

Sharon