blank cards – Happy Paper Crafting

Hi everyone and welcome to my first post for 2016. I have much happening in my life to keep me busy. I have undertaken the role of activity coordinator for Tiny Tappers; a group that promotes coordination and confidence through dance/movement for children with disabilities. It is a wonderful group and will keep me on my toes all year.

Despite this I have made myself a promise to escape the stress of life through crafting rather than reading. So you will be seeing more of me. I am not sure if I will save money buy not buying books because I may just spend the money of new craft supplies. oh well but a lot of fun to be had.

Speaking of new craft supplies the new year has brought with it a new Seasonal Expression 1 idea book. You can view and download it from the link. As usual each month there is a new Stamp of the Month. This month it is the gorgeous Beloved Bouquet stamp set. This Stamp set is stunning and has so many uses. It will be one I will constantly use. You can purchase this stamp set for $7.50 with any qualifying purchase or for $27 full price but only through January.

Sometimes you do not want to keep your cards simple. Sometimes I can find paper can distract from the impact of a stamped image. I am not sure if that is just me or if others find this as well.

I had a lot of cards to make before christmas and wanted some cards that were quick and easy. I came up with the below cards. The one on the left is coloured with watercolour pencils and the one on the right I left monochromatic. I personally feel that the monochromatic pops more against the colour than the other. What do you think?

CTMH January 2016 SOTM card and envelope

I have sponged some colour across the middle of card and then stamped the image over the top. I have raised the flower just to give it some depth.

When I sponge I find I get the best results to add ink to my sponge and rub a little off on scrap paper first before I then apply it to the card. This helps eliminate the risk of getting splotches of heavy ink in some areas.

I also find putting pressure on the song and applying in a circular motion allows for a much smoother and even finish. I do like to stamp the envelopes and I have done so on only two corners of the cards.

If you would like the instructions to make this card please contact me via email: tanya.armitage@me.com

Below are some more cards I have made using the same style. As you can see they are simple but effective. Please comment and let me know what you think and share some of your own cards using this technique too.