More Sunflowers!

Hello my friends!  Hope this finds you all doing well and having fun creating.  I wasn't ready to put away my Sunflowers 3D Embossing Folder just yet.  It's been fun creating with this embossing folder and the ideas keep popping.  Some of the cards have already made it into the mail to cheer someone or let them know they are thought of often.  But I have a few still sitting here that I thought it would be fun to share.

Today's cards are featuring the "embossed" or raised side of the paper that is used after embossing.  Aren't these pretty with the varying tones of color in the design?  I just love them!

All that gorgeous color is all from this one piece of Meandering Meadow 6" x 6" Designer Series Paper.  Amazing, right?

To make these cards, the first step is finding a DSP design that you love.  Find one with multiple colors in a random pattern.  This one has a nice mix of purples, plummy/pink, orange and vanilla.  It gives me so much leeway in how to play with it.

Since the Sunflowers 3D Embossing Folder is so large, I was able to emboss the entire 6" x 6" piece at once.

The first step would be running the edge of a Gorgeous Grape ink pad very lightly across the embossed design.  This was kept very light!  I didn't want an excess of purple overpowering the lovely colors.

Since I knew I only wanted to use 5" of the piece, 1" was cut from the bottom edge.  Of course this was saved for future reference.  I just wasn't sure where or how it would be used yet.  That would come later.

Next came ripping the DSP into useable pieces.  Figuring out where the 4" mark would be from the left side, I ripped along the length of the piece just a little short of 4" wide.  I want to mention that ripping this embossed piece was very different from ripping cardstock or plain paper.  The ripping wanted to follow the embossing in areas, so I had to be careful and rip slowly to stay in control of the rip.  Since this piece was just under 4" wide, that left another piece about 2 - 2 1/4" wide for another card design.

When embossing the DSP, I found the paper becomes rather fragile.  First thing for this piece was to adhere it to a piece of Basic White measuring 5 1/4" x 4".  Tombow Liquid Glue (green glue) was used for this job.

The layers were attached to a folded Gorgeous Grape card base that measured 11" x 4 1/4" and scored at 5 1/2".  I used "green glue" to attach.

The sentiment was chosen from the Thankful Garden stamp set.  Dies from the coordinating set were used to cut one Basic White oval and three Gorgeous Grape ovals.  The center of the white oval is stamped with Gorgeous Grape ink.  The three outer oval frames were layered one on top of the other to create a dimensional frame for the sentiment.

Before attaching the sentiment, I wanted to add a ribbon embellishment to the design.  After trying both purple and Petunia Pop ribbons, I thought they looked too heavy for the design and decided to use this old standby sheer white ribbon with a silver edge.  It's just looped on the card front and attached with a small bit of Tear & Tape which would be covered by the sentiment.  Next the sentiment was layered over the ribbon.

The inside of the card has a layer of Basic White cardstock that is 5 1/4" x 4".  The sentiment from the Thankful Garden stamp set is stamped with Gorgeous Grape ink.

That 1" strip of embossed DSP that was cut from the bottom edge at the very beginning was trimmed on each end to measure 4".  Pieces were cut off each side to get the optimum design to add to the card.  "Green glue" was used to attach to the Basic White layer and then attach inside the card.

Three of the Gorgeous Grape Glossy Dots were used to enhance the card design.  Yes, I think they're retired, but they really worked the best of all my embellishments.

Now on to the second half piece of that embossed DSP we made.

The plan for this card started with the idea of adding the DSP to a layer of Gorgeous Grape cardstock to compliment the DSP.  The purple cardstock was too plain by itself.  I embossed the left side of the cardstock with the Glass & Garden Embossing Folder.  The geometric design seemed to be a good contrast to the bold Sunflower embossed design.  

"Green glue" was used to attach the DSP to the right side of the cardstock.  Then used again to attach the layers to a Petunia Pop card base.  Sorry the picture doesn't show the Petunia Pop cardstock in all its glory.  It just didn't want to play nice.

The sentiment this time is from the Unbounded Love stamp set.  It is stamped onto a label die-cut from Basic White cardstock using one of the Unbounded Love dies.  Gorgeous Grape ink was used for this.  

To make the sentiment label stand out, a 1" strip of Petunia Pop cardstock was cut about 3 3/4" long and then one end was trimmed with Paper Snips to flag it.  This was attached from right to left about 3/4 of the way down the card.

The sentiment still needed a little more definition.  Two different open-work leaf dies from the Unbounded Love set cut some leaves from Gorgeous Grape cardstock.  There was a sprig already cut from Highland Heather cardstock using one of the Painted Lavender dies sitting on my table.  This seemed to be just what the card needed.  The small die-cuts were all attached with "green glue" and the sentiment label was attached over them using Dimensionals.

Three of the Purple Fine Simmer Gems were added for a pretty touch of bling.

Since I had none of the left-over embossed DSP left, I added some strips of Gorgeous Grape cardstock to embellish the inside of the card.

I hope you enjoyed this look at the Sunflower 3D Embossing Folder used with some pretty DSP.  Just keep playing around with your ideas and have fun.  With each little tweak you make whether to the DSP print or cardstock colors or ink color, you can come up with something new and unique to you.

I hope you've been paying attention to the 2025-2027 In Color Sale going on right now through the end of August.  You can save 15% off each item.  

Plus, you can actually buy Sale-a-bration items found in the Last Chance area of the SU! store right now.  It's on a first come, first served basis, so please don't wait too long if you want something.

That's it for today.  Thanks for stopping in to see what's new.

Happy stamping and creating,

Sharon  

Florals in Bloom Card Set

 Hello my friends!  I feel just a little bit scattered lately.  Maybe it's knowing my birthday is right around the corner and that means another year to tack onto that growing number.  Good grief, how did I ever get this old?  I keep thinking I'm younger, but my body keeps telling me "Hey, you're really old!"  But I know some really cool gifts will be coming my way, so I guess I can deal with another birthday.  I've already received some absolutely lovely cards that I'll need to share with all of you soon.  Thank you, ladies, for sharing your creativity and sending them to me!

Ok, on to the creating and sharing on this end.  Today's set of cards are focusing on the Florals in Bloom Designer Series Paper and one basic layout.  Having them all sitting on my table together reminds me of a vase of spring flowers or even a basket of Easter eggs.  I love all these bright (but not too bright!) colors.  They just make me happy, so I'm extra happy to share them with you too.

Here's number one which I think might be my favorite of the bunch.  The basic dimensions for each one of the cards are the same so I'll share just once here:

Card Base - 8 1/2" x 5 1/2"

Extra Side Piece - 7/8" x 5 1/4"

DSP - 3" x 5 1/4"

 

The card base is Coastal Cabana on this card.  I tried a good number of different cardstock colors, and they were all good. This print just lends itself to so many choices.  But I couldn't resist this combo.  The card base is scored and folded in half.  The extra piece is embossed to give it an extra pop of interest.  This time I used the Plaster Painting 3D Embossing Folder.  I wish you could feel and see the gorgeous texture this adds!

The DSP print was attached to the card base using "green glue".  It was centered on the right edge leaving a frame of the Coastal Cabana showing.

The embossed strip was attached to the left edge with "green glue".  This leaves a frame of the card base showing evenly around the two pieces.

The sentiment on this card is from the Thankful Garden stamp set.  It's stamped on a Basic White strip that measures about 7/8" x 3".  It stamped in Pretty Peacock ink.  There is a layer of Coastal Cabana under this that measures 1 1/8" x 3 1/4".  This is attached to the card front with Dimensionals.

A retired Pool Party ribbon was used to make a bow which was added to the side of the sentiment.  It's attached with Mini Glue Dots.  For bling, I used the greenish gems in the Tinsel Gems Three-pack.  I thought these blended in nicely.

Here is the 2nd card in the set.  This has a base of Petunia Pop cardstock.  The extra strip this time is embossed with one of the Basic Embossing Folders.  This gives it a more subtle texture than the first card.

The sentiment comes from the Unbounded Love set.  It seems to be a sentiment I use often.   It's sort of generic and can be appropriate for so many occasions.  So, I can leave the inside of the card blank until I'm ready to use it.  That makes it rather practical.

The sentiment is stamped with Petunia Pop ink on a 1/2" strip.  It's backed by a Petunia Pop layer that is 3/4" wide.  They were trimmed to fit the area I wanted to place the sentiment.

After attaching the sentiment layers together, I used a strip of Tear & Tape across the back.  This holds the 3/8" Petunia Pop ribbon that I folded back and forth on it.  I used about 10 1/2" of ribbon to do this. The ends of the label are left free of the ribbon.  This is where I placed the two Dimensionals to hold the sentiment on to the card.

The gems here are from the Purple Fine Shimmer Gems.  I used the rosiest of the gems and think they blend quite well with Petunia Pop of the card.

This next print also works nicely will several different colors.  For my card, I chose to use Summer Splash cardstock which is one of the In Colors.  I haven't used it too often, so thought it might need a little love here.  The DSP print is attached to the card front just like the other two.  The extra strip of cardstock is embossed with the Dashing Designs 3D Embossing Folder.  This is an Online Exclusive item if you're looking for it.

For this card, a Basic White label was cut using the Textured Notes Dies.  I love the detail that's around each of the rectangles.  It just adds so much interest to the finished project.  

The sentiment used here is from the You Are Remarkable stamp set.  This set has been getting quite a workout here lately!  It is stamped with the new Secret Sea ink pad which is one of the new 2025-2027 In Colors.  You're going to love this color!

There was a little space on the top of the label, so I stamped in a bee from the You Are Remarkable set using Summer Splash ink.  Then the label was attached to the card front with Dimensionals.

I wanted a small bow on the label but couldn't find a ribbon to use.  I ended up coloring approximately 13" of white Baker's Twine with a Peach Pie Blender Pen.  It does a good job of coloring, and it dries pretty quickly.  I folded the Baker's Twine in half and tied it in a bow.  The ends were trimmed to the size I wanted.  Then it's attached to the label with a Mini Glut Dot.

While trying to decide on the bling I wanted to use, I remembered the Tiny Bee Trinkets.  I rolled a Mini Glue Dot and attached the tiny bee right over the stamped one.  Then added another one on the side.  Perfect.

Now we've come to the last card from this set of cards.  For some reason, I had the most trouble with this print.  There were just too many options for me to choose!  I ended with the Peach Pie cardstock for it.  

The strip on the side was a leftover piece that was just a little too small to use on its own.  I wanted to try something a little different this time - stamping on it instead of using an embossing folder.  I stamped multiple sections of the daisy from You Are Remarkable to cover the piece using Peach Pie ink.  

I had planned on backing the strip and also the sentiment with Timid Tiger, a new In Color, but wasn't happy with the look.  Instead, I went with Granny Apple Green which is the color of some of the leaves in the DSP print.  

The sentiment is on a 1/2" strip of Basic White.  It's stamped with Garden Green ink so it's a little darker.  The sentiment comes from the Spring Corners stamp set.  It's trimmed and attached to the Granny Apple Green strip that's about 3/4" wide.  They're attached together with adhesive.  Then the label is attached using Dimensionals.

The bling for this card is from an old pack of iridescent sequins.  These are in the lime green color.  They seemed to blend better than anything else I tried.  I guess that's why I hang on to so many of my retired embellishments.  You never know when you'll have a need for just that one.

There you have it.  This is one way to use one pack of Designer Paper and one layout but end up with a lovely set of cards that are very different looking but still similar.

And wasn't I right?  They do look like a basket of Easter eggs just waiting to be hidden.

Hope you enjoyed this little creative jaunt and got a few ideas of how you might do this yourself.  I'm sure you have your favorite colors and prints that would work perfectly with this idea.  I can't wait to hear what you do with the idea.

The stock is running low on many of the retiring products.  If there's something you're still considering, please don't miss out.  But that also means that the new Annual Catalog will be available for ordering soon!!  If you're one of my customers and you haven't gotten your new catalog yet, please get in touch with me.  You should have received it by now.

A big reminder - when you place your orders now, make sure you sign up to receive rewards the first time you order after April15!  You won't get them if you haven't signed up for them!  As far as I know, once you sign up, you're good.  You don't have to continue to sign up each order.  They will just automatically be awarded.  And if you need a demonstrator, I would be happy to help you out.

Happy stamping and creating,

Sharon

email - sharoncarr50@gmail.com

I just have to share.  My daughter just ran in after dropping boys off for baseball practice.  She did my nails so I'd feel pretty for my birthday.  Awww.  She's sweet, isn't she?  

She talked me into blue nails!!  Holey Cow!!  Guess I'm not too old to try new things.

Now I have to share the really funny part.  She was about halfway done putting them on me when we realized there is a design of snowflakes on each finger!!  Guess I need some glasses!  Isn't this just hilarious!  Wearing snowflakes in April!  Oh well, these will certainly take a bit of getting used to wearing.  Where are my pretty pink-y/peach-y nails?  I'll get back to normal in another two weeks, thank goodness.

Have fun!

Three Panel Card for Easter

Hello my friends!  Hope you're all doing well on this Saturday afternoon.  How did we go from the heater running to the air conditioner needing to be on?  Yesterday evening, the house temps actually got up to 93 degrees!  How is that possible already?  It seems so weird turning on the air conditioner in April!  I'm not complaining mind you, but it is a little 'extra' warm right now.  Because of the warm weather, the blueberry bushes are covered in blooms.  Hope we get a good crop this year.  I love blueberry muffins and blueberry buckle.  Maybe when I make a batch, I'll have to share a picture and my mom's recipe.  Yum!  I'm already craving it!  Ok, enough about food and let's get to the stamping part.

Disclaimer first:  If you're only interested in current products, you might as well quit reading.  There are a couple of retired oldies from a good number of years back that I've used for the sentiments.  I always keep retired Easter sets because I find it very hard to find Easter sentiments.  So, keep what I got, right?

I've tried three panel cards before, but never like this.  I love that it's a full-size card and not a skinny imitation.  It just has an extra panel to open up.  Once I saw this done, it was a real "duh" moment.  Don't know why I never thought of this idea!  I saw this card on a blog by Tracy at stampinqueenbee.com.  It's so quick and easy without tons of measuring that takes up time.  Just cut a few layers and you're finished.

For this card, I started with 2 card bases of Daffodil Delight cardstock that measured 8 1/2" x 5 1/2" and are folded in half.  To get the three panels, just attach the left side of one base to the right side of another base.  Yup, that's it.  You're ready to layer and finish the card.  What could be easier?

Let's start with the front panel.  There is a layer of Basic White cardstock first.  I cut 2 of these that measure 5 1/4" x 4".  Save one for later.  

On the white layer, a piece of Floral Delight 12" x 12" DSP was layered.  This is a gorgeous green print with white flowers on it.  Looked perfect for Easter.  This measures 5" x 3 3/4".  This was attached to the white with adhesive.  Then both were attached to the front panel of the card base using adhesive too.

The added flowers are a stamp from the Thankful Garden Bundle.  This was stamped on a Basic White quarter sheet of cardstock using Memento Tuxedo Black ink.

For this card, I got out my watercolor pencils in Daffodil Delight and Garden Green.  I hadn't used these for a long while and they needed some love and attention.  For the flower, I colored in the center of the flower pretty heavily.  Then a light touch was used over the rest of the flower.  It looked pretty as it was, but I used a Blender Pen to soften and blend the watercolor pencil.

For the leaves, I colored the veining with the Garden Green pencil and softened with the Blender Pen.

I wasn't exactly happy with the color, so I went into my retired ink pads and grabbed the Soft Succulent ink.  Using the same Blender Pen, I picked up a small amount of ink to add to each of the leaves.  I was much happier with the color I created.

The flowers were die-cut with the coordinating die.  When I laid it on the card front, the background white areas bothered me.  So, I got out my trusty Exacto Knife and performed a little surgery on the piece.  I like it much better now.  And I also went over the flowers and leaves with a little Wink of Stella to give it a touch of sparkle.  Then the centers of the flowers were added in stamped with Memento Tuxedo Black ink to finish.

The flowers were attached to the front panel of the card using Dimensionals.  

The sentiment is from the retired Delightful Dozen stamp set.  I have no idea how many years ago this set was available, but I still like it and use it.  I thought the curling font went well with the sketchy look of the images.  This was stamped on a 3/4" strip of Basic White cardstock using Memento Tuxedo Black ink.  The ends are flagged to finish.  The label is attached over the stem using Dimensionals on the ends.

Next, we move to the inside of the card.

Opening the card and laying it out flat I worked on the two outer panels.  There are two pieces of the same DSP print used on the panels.  They measure 5 1/4" x 4".  Each are attached flat to their side panels using adhesive.

The center panel is the other white piece we cut earlier.  This has the same flowers stamped in the bottom corner using Daffodil Delight ink.

The sentiment is from the His Grace set which is another retired goodie from years back.  It's stamped with Memento Tuxedo Black ink.

Closing the right panel of the card, you can see I stamped the flower again with Garden Green ink on the same color of cardstock.  This is die-cut, then attached flat to the plain panel.

A banner was stamped with a sentiment from the Faith Collection (current!!)  It's stamped with Memento Tuxedo Black ink on a 1/2" strip.  The ends were trimmed and flagged.  Then it was attached over the flower with adhesive.

On the open left panel, a Bible verse from the His Grace set was stamped with black ink onto a small white piece.  This was trimmed to fit around the verse and a layer of Garden Green was layered behind it.  Then it's attached flat to the panel with adhesive.

The last step was adding a touch of bling.  Three of the Low-Profile Dots in gold were added to finish the design.

Now that I'm done describing how to make this, I think it almost took longer to write about it than to make it!  Hehe.  Well, that's an exaggeration to be honest.  But it is a quick and easy card.  I love the surprise when you have an extra panel to open.  It just makes it a little more special in my opinion.

Don't forget there's only til the end of April to do your shopping from the annual catalog and the Jan - April Mini Catalog.  Check out the Last Chance list for the retiring items. Some are discounted very nicely too! Don't forget the cardstock prices are going up in the new catalog.  You might want to stock up on several of your favorite colors.  I know I love a bargain.  I'm guessing you do too.  

Thanks for sharing some of your weekend with me.  Now I need to get outside on this beautiful day and get something done!

Happy stamping and creating,

Sharon

Front Step Pop-Up Card

Greetings my stamping friends.  Today's card is a fun fold beauty that I'm sure you'll like.  Knowing how inept I can be when making fun fold cards, you can be sure I CASEd this card idea.  There's no way I'd be able to figure out dimensions and all by myself.  So, I want to give a big thanks to Lynn Dunn at stamptasticdesigns.com for sharing her lovely card.  After following her directions and making a similar card to her sample, I kept going and made another card that I'm sharing with you.  Hope you give this fun fold a try.  It's really not that hard to make once you wrap your head around the few basic parts you need.  Let's get creating.

I started with a base card of Pool Party.  Cut a piece a 11" x 4 1/4".  This is scored at 5 1/2".

For the front step section:  Cut a piece of Basic White cardstock 9 3/4" x 4".  Score on the long side at 2 1/4" and 4 1/2".  This is accordion folded, then the largest section is attached to the card front as shown.  I used "green glue" for this step.

Cut a floral print layer from the Wildflower Birthday DSP that measures 5" x 3 3/4".  This is attached over the white layer you just made.

Cut another piece of the same DSP print that measures 3 3/4" x 2".  This is attached to the front of the step out using "green glue".

Cut a piece of either Pool Party or the same DSP that measures 3 3/4" x 2".  This piece is attached inside the fold.  You can see where I attached the Pool Party layer from this picture.

Cut another piece of Pool Party cardstock.  This measures 4 1/4" x 3".  Cut another Basic White piece that measures 4" x 2 3/4".  This was embossed with the So Swirly Embossing Folder.  This sort of reminded me of frosting swirls.  You can use any other embossing you'd prefer.  After embossing, this layer is attached to the Pool Party layer with "green glue".  

Next, lay the card down flat and fold the step part closed.  This way you can position the Pool Party layer on the center of the front.  Lightly mark with a pencil and attach it only to the step portion.

The Wildflower Birthday DSP has 2 sheets of punch out pieces.  The cake piece and extra flowers comes from this.  The cake is attached to the white layer with Dimensionals.  This is closer to the top so the sentiment will fit.

A 3/4" strip of Basic White cardstock is used to stamp the Happy Birthday.  The sentiment comes from Arched Wishes stamp set.  It's stamped with Memento Tuxedo Black ink.  It's trimmed to about 3 3/4" long and the ends are flagged.  This is attached below the bottom of the cake stand and onto the card base.  It's attached with Dimensionals.

The inside of the card base has a layer of Basic White that measures 5 1/4" x 4".  There is a 3/4" strip of pink and white diagonal checked DSP.  This is another print from the Wildflower Birthday DSP.  It's attached at the bottom of the white layer.  One of the printed punch-outs from the DSP pack is added as an extra accent.

Back to the front of the card for the addition of a little bling.  Another little flower was attached to the cake stand.  Then what was it going to be - gems or sequins?  This time I chose the Iridescent Faceted Gems.  They are so sparkly and match most any color you place them on.  So pretty and just the right amount of sparkle for a fancy birthday card.

Here's a last look at my birthday card.  I'm so happy with it!

Now I want to share the original card I made following Lynn Dunn's post.  

This is being held closed to show how it fits in a regular size envelope for mailing. 

The main colors are Garden Green and white.  The stamp set is the Thankful Garden set.   I used the masks and Blending Brushes to color the flowers and leaves.  The green print paper is from the Lovely Garden DSP pack.  This green print is just beautiful!

Only two colors were used for the coloring - Crushed Curry and Garden Green.  Both of these colors were added with a very soft touch to keep these fairly dark colors lighter on the image.

The new Mini Corrugated Embossing Folder was used here.  Isn't it a cute background?

The sentiment is from the Thankful Garden set, and it's stamped with Memento Tuxedo Black ink.

Three of the Brushed Brass Butterflies were used for the accent on this card.  Looking at the card now, I'm thinking the little Bee Trinkets would be great here too.

I mentioned that I followed her instructions and colors - mostly.  There always have to be a few details that I change, because I can't help myself.  This is a beautiful card though and I'm very pleased with it.  I hope you too give this fun fold a try.   It's easier than it looks.

Just a heads up that the retired list is out.  Go to Last Chance List to see what will be leaving soon.  Don't wait too long to make those last-minute purchases of retiring stamps, cardstocks, products, and In Colors too.  Hope you'll consider putting my name in for your demonstrator.  Thanks!

Happy stamping and creating,

Sharon

More Thankful Garden Bouquets

 Hello friends.  I've been so busy playing with colors and these Thankful Garden Masks that I haven't gotten around to posting anything.  So today I have two cards to share.  Each of them uses the "other flowers", not the hydrangea.  I'm not sure what kind of flowers they are, but they do come out lovely when using the masks and mixing the colors.  Do you like pastels?  I tend to gravitate towards pastels when I'm creating for myself, so this is what you get today.  Two pastel versions of these pretty flowers.  If you prefer brighter and more intense colors, just blend the color on heavier or use darker ink colors.  You can make these beautiful flowers in any combination that you'd like to find in your garden.

Of course, my first try with this flower needed to be pink.  Very soft and pretty, isn't it?  First the flowers are stamped on a piece of Basic White cardstock.  I used Memento Tuxedo Black for this. 

Next come the masks.  I used a bit of Washi Tape to hold the cardstock in place.  After placing Mask #1 in place, I drew in the registration marks and used a piece of Washi Tape to hold in place.  I started with Pretty in Pink ink and a Blending Brush.  Using very little ink, I started blending at the bottom of the flowers and swirled the brush up.  I had to check if there was pink on the flowers because it was so light.

With Mask #2, I added a little more of the Pretty in Pink.  Then very lightly added a bit of Fresh Freesia ink to change the tone a little bit.

Mask #3 was adding more of the Fresh Freesia ink but still keeping it on the light side.

Mask #4 moves on to the leaves.  My first blended layer was Pool Party ink.  I thought this kept with the pale flowers.  It needed a little green added to the leaves.  

The last mask #5 is the details on the leaves.  For this I tried the Summer Splash In Color.  I really liked how that worked out on the Pool Party base.

Now that all the color has been added, the flowers are die-cut with the matching die.  Set aside until we're ready to put together.

The card base is Basic White cardstock.  It measures 8 1/2" x 5 1/2" and is scored and folded in half.  There is a layer of Pretty in Pink cardstock next.  This measures 5 1/4" x 4".  It is attached to the folded card base with "green glue".

There is a Basic White layer next.  This measures 4 1/2" x 3 1/4".  The new Mini Corrugated 3D Embossing Folder is used on this to give it texture.  (We used to have a corrugating tool that I used often.  I'm sure I'll like this one just as much.)

A length of sheer white and silver-edged ribbon is wrapped around the white layer and tied into a knot on the side.  I used "green glue" to attach this layer to the front of the card.  I also added a Mini Glue Dot under the knot to hold in place.

The pretty flowers are attached with Dimensionals to the upper part of the white layer.  A sentiment from the new Spring Corners stamp set is stamped onto a 1/2" strip of Basic White cardstock with Memento Tuxedo Black ink.  The left edge was angled to fit snuggly under the stem.  The right end was cut to fit the edge of the card and flagged to finish.  This is attached to the card front below the ribbon with Mini Dimensionals.

Three of the clear Rhinestone Basic Jewels were added to the design.  This compliments the silver edge on the ribbon nicely.

Thee second card is another pastel, but this time a cheerful, sunny yellow color.  The flowers were stamped the same with Memento Tuxedo Black ink on Basic White cardstock.

Mask #1 was lightly colored in with a Blending Brush and Lemon Lolly ink.  

Mask #2 was another layer of Lemon Lolly ink.

Mask #3 is a layer of Daffodil Delight ink.  To change the color a little, I lightly blended on just a touch of Peach Pie ink.

Mask #4 is first a light layer of Lemon Lime Twist with just a smidgeon of Granny Apple Green added at the bottom of each leaf.

Mask #5 is a light layer of Granny Apple Green with just a few touches of Garden Green added.

This was die-cut and set aside.

The card base is Basic White cardstock that measures 8 1/2" x 5 1/2".  It's scored and folded in half.  

A layer of yellow and white checked paper from the Floral Delight DSP pack was added.  It is 5 1/4" x 4" and attached to the base with "green glue".  

There is a layer of Basic White cut that measures 4" x 2 3/4".

This sentiment fit from edge to edge on the Basic White piece.  The stamp was inked with Garden Green ink then stamped once, moved down and stamped again.  Then it was ink, stamp, stamp again, and repeat all the way down the cardstock piece.

This was stamped once more on a 3/8" piece of white to match.

The white layer was attached to the card front with "green glue".  The single strip was attached under this with Mini Dimensionals.  

The flowers were added to the white layer with Dimensionals.

A double bow was made with the Daffodil Delight 1/8" Ribbon.  It's added to the stem and attached with Mini Glue Dots.  This is a great addition with all these other yellows.

Up to this point, I haven't decided on which type of bling I want to add.  Or maybe it doesn't need anything extra as all.  You decide.  Hope you like both of these options for these lovely flowers.  Now that I've started in with these masks, I don't know how I'll tear myself away.

Have you gotten your fix for the Thankful Garden and it's coordinating set of masks?  If not, hang around a bit.  Chances are I'll be playing with them again soon.

The new catalogs should be mailed out shortly.  How exciting!   I always love getting the new catalog in my hands so I can dream and maybe "drool" over it!  If you're one of my customers, you should be getting yours in the mail soon.  If you don't have a demonstrator yet, I would like to be that person in your life - your stamping coach and friend.  Let me know if you have any questions about these projects and the products to make them.

Happy stamping and creating,

Sharon

 

More Hydrangeas

Hello my friends!  I'm back with another Thankful Garden card using those fabulous hydrangeas.  I've been doing the prep work for when we get together to make the cards for the shut-ins at church.  My mind has been totally focused on Easter themed cards at this time.  I needed a break, and I've wanted to do another card with the hydrangeas.  Funny thing, my ideas kind of went sideways and I ended up with something totally different.  I really was going to play with pinks, blues, and purples this time around.  Then I got thinking of a very neutral idea instead.  As you can see, no pinks etc.  But I really love the pretty card that evolved from the mess on my table.

I wish you could see the soft, delicate colors in person.  Quite lovely.  I started the card by stamping the hydrangea onto a Basic White cardstock piece about 4 1/4" x 3 1/2".  This was just enough to have a good frame around it while I was doing the coloring on it.  I used Basic Gray ink for a slightly softer look.

Next, I lined up the stamped image with the 1st mask.  Using a Blending Brush and Basic Beige ink, I added a light base for the flowers.  I had to check under the mask to make sure that I actually added color!

Moving on to the 2nd mask, another light layer of Basic Beige ink was added.  Before removing this mask, I added in just a hint of Pool Party to the flowers.

For the 3rd mask, another layer of Pool Party was lightly added.  Check under the mask to make sure you can see it but keep it light.

Ready for the 4th mask.  This one is the base for the leaves.  This was colored with a Blending Brush and Soft Seafoam ink.  When I got to the leaves, it seems I got a little heavier handed with my coloring.  For some reason, they seem to show up even darker in the pictures.  You could definitely do it softer if you prefer.

The 5th mask is the detail on the leaves.  This is also done with Soft Seafoam ink.  After the coloring was complete, the image was die-cut with the coordinating die.

The card base is Soft Seafoam cardstock that measures 8 1/2" x 5 1/2".  It's scored and folded in half.

The DSP layer is one of the Country Lace DSP prints that are so pretty.  BTW, I noticed this DSP pack will not be in the coming catalog.  Boo Hoo.  I think I need to get another pack before it's gone.  This piece measures 3 7/8" x 5 1/8".

The DSP layer is backed with a Basic White cardstock layer.  This measures 4" x 5 1/4".  The layers are attached together with adhesive.  Then they are attached to the card base with adhesive too.

The sentiment is from the Faith Collection and is my favorite.  I wanted to add it to a die-cut label, and it took a while to find just the right one.  This one is from the Something Fancy Bundle.  It's just the right size.  It's die-cut from Basic White with the sentiment stamped on with Basic Gray ink.

The last part of the design is the grid piece going down the side of the card.  I'd noticed it in the Mixed Labels Bundle when looking for a label.  I thought this design element would be interesting.  It's die-cut from Soft Seafoam cardstock.  We've got all of our design pieces ready, so let's put it together!

After moving all the pieces around to fit properly, the grid was attached first on the right edge of the card.  I used a 'dotted adhesive' on the back and attached it.

The hydrangea was attached with five Dimensionals to pop it up nicely.  Lastly, the label was added near the bottom.  It's also attached with Dimensionals.

For a bit of subtle bling, three of the lightest Purple Adhesive-backed Sequins that were a popular Sale-a-bration item.  (Wish I had gotten more!)  These white iridescent sequins seem to pick up the greens on the card perfectly.

I loved how the design came together so much, that I prepped enough to make another five cards.  I was surprised how quickly I could color all the layers on the hydrangeas for all the cards.  Not sure if I'll use these myself for Easter or use them for the shut-ins.  Either way, these cards will definitely be sent out this Easter.

Thanks for stopping by today.  Hope you enjoyed a walk through another hydrangea card design.  Can you tell this is my favorite set at the moment?  Oops, I'm pretty sure I forgot to mention that the Thankful Garden and the Mixed Labels Bundles are both Online Exclusive items in case you're looking for them.  These are both 'must have' items for me.

Happy stamping and creating,

Sharon

Beautiful Hydrangeas

Hello fellow stampers!  Have you seen the new Thankful Garden Bundle with all the coordinating pieces that go with it?  If you haven't seen it yet, make sure you check out the Online Exclusives section.  It's there along with the gorgeous DSP that goes with it.  The two floral images in the set are lovely and will be a treat to color.  But one of the cool things about this bundle is the set of masks for coloring the images.  Oh boy, they are wonderful.  That's what I had to try out first.

Here's the first card of what will be many in the future.  We had a gorgeous Pool Party/Coastal Cabana colored hydrangea before my husband went on a "cutting all the unnecessary shrubbery" rant.  Unfortunately, the hydrangea was in that unnecessary category because it wasn't in bloom at the time.  Boo hoo!  Anyway, this card was colored in honor of that fallen bush.

 I started by stamping the hydrangea with Memento Tuxedo Black on a Basic White piece of cardstock.  I then lightly attached the cardstock to my work area with a little washi tape in the corners.  The first mask was laid over the design and the registration mark on the edge was made for lining up the other four masks.  The first color used was Balmy Blue ink blended on with the Blending Brush.  This is all the color between the petals and the first bit of color on the petals.  

Mask #2 was put in place and Pool Party ink and a Blending Brush added the next layer.  I felt that I added quite a bit of Pool Party to get some color on the flowers.  (Maybe I need to re-ink my pad.)

Mask #3 was put in place and another layer of Pool Party was added.  There wasn't enough definition and detail showing.  So I switched to Coastal Cabana and added a light layer of this.  That really helped the petals to stand out.

Masks #4 and #5 were to color the leaves.  The #4 mask was used to add a layer of Garden Green ink with a Blending Brush.  #5 was also Garden Green ink, but it was added more heavily.  That was it for the coloring.  Seems almost too easy!

The finished flower was die-cut with the matching dies. 

With the flower in hand to choose colors, I chose Pool Party for the card base.  This measures 11" x 4 1/4".  It's scored at 5 1/2" and folded in half.

The green print layer is from the Lovely Garden DSP which coordinates with the set.  A piece was cut from the two-toned green print that measured 5 1/2" x 4".  This piece was die-cut with largest die in the new Textured Notes dies set.  You can't see the edge details in my pictures, but the detail adds so much to the look in person.  This is attached to the folded card base with adhesive.

The next layer is a piece of Basic White that was cut with the 3rd largest die.  This time the detail shows up very nicely.  Doesn't it really add to the elegance of the design?  The die-cut hydrangeas were attached to the white layer with adhesive.  Then this was attached to the card front with Dimensionals.

The sentiment is one of the preprinted sayings in the Greetings For All Mix & Match Ephemera Pack.  This can be found on page 13 of the Jan-April Mini Catalog.  I usually don't buy these preprint words, but thought I'd give it a try.  It's full of basic sentiments you'll find helpful and use often.   I really like this Easter sentiment, and it was easy to release from the perforated sheet.  Maybe I'll have to try more of these ephemera packs.  

The sentiment was added to the card front with Dimensionals.  

After going through my stash of bling, I settled on the Rhinestone Basic Jewels.  One of those tiny gems was put in the center of most of the detailed flowers.  I used 9 of them.  Any more seemed like too many to me.  

I just love how this card sparkles in the sunlight!  So pretty and a fitting homage to my deceased hydrangea bush.  I can't wait to try the other pinks, blues, and purples to make these fabulously easy, but gorgeous flowers!  I'm always amazed how nice the masks work coloring the designs and then being able to finish a card so quickly.

Hope you enjoyed today's card idea.  You really need to try out these masks and easily create your own masterpiece.  It's always fun to see what a few color changes can do to change the total look of a card.  For me, these are my colors, but what would you choose to use?

Thanks for stopping by today.  It's always fun to hear from you.  Just a heads up, the cost of cardstock will be going up in the new catalog.  If you're in need of any soon, now would be a great time to stock up.

Happy stamping and creating,

Sharon