Hello everyone,
Today's post is another pretty spring thank you card.
The card base is Close To My Heart Baby Pink. The background image is Stampin' Up You've Got This stamped in Altenew Frosty Pink on Recollections White and layered on Close To My Heart Fern. The image is Altenew Tulip stamped in Evergreen, Frayed Leaf, Forest Glades, Pink Diamond, Pinkalicious and Rubellite on Recollections White and cut with the coordinating die. The sentiment is also Altenew Tulip stamped in Rubellite ink. The card is highlighted with White Opal Liquid Pearls.
Pink and green are always a wonderful colour combination and in January's cold, it's a perfect spring pick-me-up! I love this Altenew stamp set and die. It's very easy to use and doesn't require absolute perfection to get satisfying results. This layout is one I use often but the results are so pleasing, I can't help myself.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Wednesday, January 30, 2019
Striking Thanks.
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another simple thank you card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Bordering Blue. The background image Stampin' Up Flannel Plaid stamped in Altenew Dew Drops on Recollections White and layered on Recollections Black.. The sentiment is Stampin' Up Another Thank You stamped in Versafine Onyx Black. The silver brads are of unknown origin.
Sometimes you need to craft a card quickly and this sentiment is the perfect thing! This big and bold thank you is so striking, you don't need to do a lot to get fantastic results. I used my MISTI to stamp because from past experience I know it takes multiple inkings to get a good impression. I think I may have re-inked the stamp three times to ensure a solid impression. Instead of black ink I could have used the darker shade of the Altenew ink palette but I really wanted the sentiment to pop!
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another simple thank you card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Bordering Blue. The background image Stampin' Up Flannel Plaid stamped in Altenew Dew Drops on Recollections White and layered on Recollections Black.. The sentiment is Stampin' Up Another Thank You stamped in Versafine Onyx Black. The silver brads are of unknown origin.
Sometimes you need to craft a card quickly and this sentiment is the perfect thing! This big and bold thank you is so striking, you don't need to do a lot to get fantastic results. I used my MISTI to stamp because from past experience I know it takes multiple inkings to get a good impression. I think I may have re-inked the stamp three times to ensure a solid impression. Instead of black ink I could have used the darker shade of the Altenew ink palette but I really wanted the sentiment to pop!
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Tuesday, January 29, 2019
Wheat Thank You
Hello everyone,
Today's post is one of my favourites of this batch I've been crafting.
The card base is Close To My Heart Whisper. The background image is Stampin' Up Crosshatch stamped in Close To My Heart Whisper on Recollections White. The focal image is Woodware Wheat stamped in Close To My Heart Pewter. The image panel is layered on a brushed gold, a shimmery brown and a white all of unknown origin. The sentiment is Altenew Many Thanks stamped in Altenew Pure Graphite on a white of unknown origin.
This card is all about the fabulous Woodware image. It's a rather large and distinctive stamp so I don't use it often but I'm never disappointed when I do. The pewter ink colour came out much more brown than I anticipated but I think it's because the stamped had a reddish stain, obviously not cleaned as well as it could have been, on it that was activated with fresh ink. Regardless, I love the result. It took be quite of bit of time to find coordinating layers in my scrap bin but it was worth the effort.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is one of my favourites of this batch I've been crafting.
The card base is Close To My Heart Whisper. The background image is Stampin' Up Crosshatch stamped in Close To My Heart Whisper on Recollections White. The focal image is Woodware Wheat stamped in Close To My Heart Pewter. The image panel is layered on a brushed gold, a shimmery brown and a white all of unknown origin. The sentiment is Altenew Many Thanks stamped in Altenew Pure Graphite on a white of unknown origin.
This card is all about the fabulous Woodware image. It's a rather large and distinctive stamp so I don't use it often but I'm never disappointed when I do. The pewter ink colour came out much more brown than I anticipated but I think it's because the stamped had a reddish stain, obviously not cleaned as well as it could have been, on it that was activated with fresh ink. Regardless, I love the result. It took be quite of bit of time to find coordinating layers in my scrap bin but it was worth the effort.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Monday, January 28, 2019
Simple Thank You
Hello everyone,
Today's card is a more masculine thank you card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Smoky Slate. The background image is Stampin' Up You've Got This stamped in Close To My Heart Pebble on Recollections White and layered on Stampin' Up Sahara Sand and Garden Green. The image is Stamp Barn Enchanted Hollow stamped in Soft Suede, Early Espresso, Old Olive, Garden Green and Always Artichoke watercolour crayons. The sentiment is Altenew Many Thanks stamped Early Espresso.
I've had this image for years and it's a favourite for using watercolour crayons. With both the background image and the tree so subtly stamped it's a very soft effect but still perfectly masculine. I love the font of the sentiment, again great for a more masculine card. It's a great result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's card is a more masculine thank you card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Smoky Slate. The background image is Stampin' Up You've Got This stamped in Close To My Heart Pebble on Recollections White and layered on Stampin' Up Sahara Sand and Garden Green. The image is Stamp Barn Enchanted Hollow stamped in Soft Suede, Early Espresso, Old Olive, Garden Green and Always Artichoke watercolour crayons. The sentiment is Altenew Many Thanks stamped Early Espresso.
I've had this image for years and it's a favourite for using watercolour crayons. With both the background image and the tree so subtly stamped it's a very soft effect but still perfectly masculine. I love the font of the sentiment, again great for a more masculine card. It's a great result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Sunday, January 27, 2019
Get Well Tulips
Hello everyone,
Today's post is a lovely spring get well card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Coastal Cabana. The image is Stampin' Up Blessed Easter stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on Recollections White and coloured with So Saffron, Ridinghood Red, Old Olive and Wild Wasabi watercolour crayons. The image panel is layered on more Coastal Cabana and Recollections Black. The background was stamped with Stampin' Up Watercolor Wash in Altenew Sea Glass. The sentiment is Bonnidee French Wording #1.
This is such a pretty card for a cold January Sunday. Tulips are always a favourite and I particularly love this stamp as it is really easy to colour and it's a great size for cards. I'm very pleased with the layers and I think the large reveal subtly stamped in Sea Glass turned out wonderfully. I've but this one French set of all purpose sentiment stamps so it gets a lot of use but it's got great front and is also great for cards.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is a lovely spring get well card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Coastal Cabana. The image is Stampin' Up Blessed Easter stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on Recollections White and coloured with So Saffron, Ridinghood Red, Old Olive and Wild Wasabi watercolour crayons. The image panel is layered on more Coastal Cabana and Recollections Black. The background was stamped with Stampin' Up Watercolor Wash in Altenew Sea Glass. The sentiment is Bonnidee French Wording #1.
This is such a pretty card for a cold January Sunday. Tulips are always a favourite and I particularly love this stamp as it is really easy to colour and it's a great size for cards. I'm very pleased with the layers and I think the large reveal subtly stamped in Sea Glass turned out wonderfully. I've but this one French set of all purpose sentiment stamps so it gets a lot of use but it's got great front and is also great for cards.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Saturday, January 26, 2019
Sweet Sunshine
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another French get well card to replenish my stash.
The card base is Close To My Heart Buttercup. The background was stamped with Stampin' Up Watercolor Wash in Altenew Citrus Burst on Recollections White and is layered on Close To My Heart Canary and a white of unknown origin. The images are Poppy Bellina Butterfly Triptych die cut from Stampin' Up Basic Grey. The sentiment is Bonnidee French Wording #1 stamped in Altenew Pure Graphite. The ribbon is American Crafts.
It's been rather cold and blustery in Ottawa this past week so a sunshiny yellow card was just the ticket. I used Sizzix Permanent Adhesive Sheets to adhere these delicate die cuts. My girlfriend told me about the product and it works so, so, so much better than glue (thanks Michelle)! I was introduced to the yellow and grey colour combination by another card making girlfriend (thanks Kairn) a while back. I find yellow a challenging colour to use but combined with grey, it's great!
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another French get well card to replenish my stash.
The card base is Close To My Heart Buttercup. The background was stamped with Stampin' Up Watercolor Wash in Altenew Citrus Burst on Recollections White and is layered on Close To My Heart Canary and a white of unknown origin. The images are Poppy Bellina Butterfly Triptych die cut from Stampin' Up Basic Grey. The sentiment is Bonnidee French Wording #1 stamped in Altenew Pure Graphite. The ribbon is American Crafts.
It's been rather cold and blustery in Ottawa this past week so a sunshiny yellow card was just the ticket. I used Sizzix Permanent Adhesive Sheets to adhere these delicate die cuts. My girlfriend told me about the product and it works so, so, so much better than glue (thanks Michelle)! I was introduced to the yellow and grey colour combination by another card making girlfriend (thanks Kairn) a while back. I find yellow a challenging colour to use but combined with grey, it's great!
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Friday, January 25, 2019
Get Well In Green
Hello everyone,
Today's post is a French get well card for my stash.
The card base is Close To My Heart Emerald. The image is Stampin' Up Botanical Blooms stamped in Altenew Lagoon and Emerald on a piece of Recollections White. The background was stamped with Stampin' Up Flannel Plaid in Altenew Volcano Lake and layered on a white of unknown origin. The sentiment is Bonnidee French Wording #1 stamped in Versafine Onyx Black. The butterfly embellishment was punched from a piece of Ranger alcohol inked glossy paper. The card is highlighted with Star Dust Stickles.
This is such a cheerful card in lovely shades of green. It's very simple and straightforward with an odd number of elements, following a pleasing design principle. The simplicity of the layout and elements is very appealing and I think works great for a get well card. It's a rather more feminine card than I originally intended.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is a French get well card for my stash.
The card base is Close To My Heart Emerald. The image is Stampin' Up Botanical Blooms stamped in Altenew Lagoon and Emerald on a piece of Recollections White. The background was stamped with Stampin' Up Flannel Plaid in Altenew Volcano Lake and layered on a white of unknown origin. The sentiment is Bonnidee French Wording #1 stamped in Versafine Onyx Black. The butterfly embellishment was punched from a piece of Ranger alcohol inked glossy paper. The card is highlighted with Star Dust Stickles.
This is such a cheerful card in lovely shades of green. It's very simple and straightforward with an odd number of elements, following a pleasing design principle. The simplicity of the layout and elements is very appealing and I think works great for a get well card. It's a rather more feminine card than I originally intended.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Thursday, January 24, 2019
All In Green
Hello everyone,
Today's post is the last of the sympathy card series I've been crafting.
The card base is Stampin' Up Lucky Limeade. The focal image is Altenew Frosted Garden stamped in Altenew Moss on a white of unknown origin and cut with the coordinating die. The background image is Stampin' Up Crosshatch stamped in Close To My Heart Sweet Leaf on Recollections White and layered on Sweet Leaf. The sentiment is Gina K Labeled With Love stamped in Versafine Onyx Black. The card is highlighted with Avocado Liquid Pearls.
The different shades of green on this card are particularly appealing. I'm not sure I'd ever previously used a lighter shade for layering and I can't imagine why because this result is particularly pleasing. I did manage to get the dots of Liquid Pearls 'right' which pleases me even more! I've been crafting these latest cards without using the printed paper that I normally use. It's not so much a challenge for myself but rather a different aspect of creativity that I've rather enjoyed. I really love layered stamping and am so very happy with these latest cards.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is the last of the sympathy card series I've been crafting.
The card base is Stampin' Up Lucky Limeade. The focal image is Altenew Frosted Garden stamped in Altenew Moss on a white of unknown origin and cut with the coordinating die. The background image is Stampin' Up Crosshatch stamped in Close To My Heart Sweet Leaf on Recollections White and layered on Sweet Leaf. The sentiment is Gina K Labeled With Love stamped in Versafine Onyx Black. The card is highlighted with Avocado Liquid Pearls.
The different shades of green on this card are particularly appealing. I'm not sure I'd ever previously used a lighter shade for layering and I can't imagine why because this result is particularly pleasing. I did manage to get the dots of Liquid Pearls 'right' which pleases me even more! I've been crafting these latest cards without using the printed paper that I normally use. It's not so much a challenge for myself but rather a different aspect of creativity that I've rather enjoyed. I really love layered stamping and am so very happy with these latest cards.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Wednesday, January 23, 2019
Sympathy Silhouette
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another sympathy card I've been crafting to replenish my stash.
The card base is Close To My Heart Indian Corn Blue. The images are Stampin' Up You've Got This stamped in Altenew Caribbean Sky and Hero Arts Exotic Bloom stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on Recollections White. The sentiment is Hero Arts Everyday Sayings also stamped in Versafine Onyx Black. The image panel is layered on Recollections Black.
I really like this card. It's was very quick and easy and is truly lovely in its simplicity. The blue/black/white colour scheme always works for any occasion. The black focal image really pops, as intended, and is framed perfectly by the small black reveal of the black layer. A sentiment with a straightforward font is a fitting anchor.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another sympathy card I've been crafting to replenish my stash.
The card base is Close To My Heart Indian Corn Blue. The images are Stampin' Up You've Got This stamped in Altenew Caribbean Sky and Hero Arts Exotic Bloom stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on Recollections White. The sentiment is Hero Arts Everyday Sayings also stamped in Versafine Onyx Black. The image panel is layered on Recollections Black.
I really like this card. It's was very quick and easy and is truly lovely in its simplicity. The blue/black/white colour scheme always works for any occasion. The black focal image really pops, as intended, and is framed perfectly by the small black reveal of the black layer. A sentiment with a straightforward font is a fitting anchor.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Tuesday, January 22, 2019
All In Blue
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another sympathy card.
The card base is Close To My Heart Lilac Mist. The images are Altenew Wild Hibiscus stamped in ColorBox Mosaic on a white of unknown origin and cut with the coordinating die. The background image is Stampin' Up Flannel Plaid stamped in Altenew Dew Drops on Recollections White and layered on more white. The sentiment is Gina K Framed Greetings stamped in Altenew Pure Graphite. The card is highlighted with Platinum Liquid Pearls.
I really love this soft and subtle blue card. Even though the images are quite large, the pale blue colour scheme softens the overall impact. I used a variety of dimensionals to layer the images which adds a little more visual interest. I'm not completely pleased with the dots of Liquid Pearls as the placement is too close to the images. One of these days, I'll get it right!
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another sympathy card.
The card base is Close To My Heart Lilac Mist. The images are Altenew Wild Hibiscus stamped in ColorBox Mosaic on a white of unknown origin and cut with the coordinating die. The background image is Stampin' Up Flannel Plaid stamped in Altenew Dew Drops on Recollections White and layered on more white. The sentiment is Gina K Framed Greetings stamped in Altenew Pure Graphite. The card is highlighted with Platinum Liquid Pearls.
I really love this soft and subtle blue card. Even though the images are quite large, the pale blue colour scheme softens the overall impact. I used a variety of dimensionals to layer the images which adds a little more visual interest. I'm not completely pleased with the dots of Liquid Pearls as the placement is too close to the images. One of these days, I'll get it right!
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Monday, January 21, 2019
Subtle Condolences
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another sympathy card that I've crafted to replenish my stash.
The card base is Close To My Heart Sweet Leaf. The images are Stampin' Up Watercolor Wash stamped in Altenew Frayed Leaf and Stampin' Up Serene Silhouettes stamped in Close To My Heart Heather on Recollections White and layered on more white. The sentiment is Close To My Heart Sincere Expressions also stamped in Heather ink. The pearl embellishments are of unknown origin.
I really love stamping multiple image on top of one another and have a decent collection of great background stamps that facilitate this technique. I'm using a number of these stamps in these latest cards. This is a very subtle tone on tone card. Like yesterday's card, it's a more tall card which easily accommodates the taller silhouette image.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another sympathy card that I've crafted to replenish my stash.
The card base is Close To My Heart Sweet Leaf. The images are Stampin' Up Watercolor Wash stamped in Altenew Frayed Leaf and Stampin' Up Serene Silhouettes stamped in Close To My Heart Heather on Recollections White and layered on more white. The sentiment is Close To My Heart Sincere Expressions also stamped in Heather ink. The pearl embellishments are of unknown origin.
I really love stamping multiple image on top of one another and have a decent collection of great background stamps that facilitate this technique. I'm using a number of these stamps in these latest cards. This is a very subtle tone on tone card. Like yesterday's card, it's a more tall card which easily accommodates the taller silhouette image.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Sunday, January 20, 2019
Simple Poppy Sympathy
Hello everyone,
Today's post is one of a series of sympathy cards I'm crafting to replenish my stash.
The card base is Stampin' Up Sahara Sand. The image is Stampin' Up Oh, So Lovely stamped in Close To My Heart Slate and coloured with Stampin' Up Pastels. The sentiment is Stampin' Up Teeny Tiny Wishes also stamped in Slate ink. The image and sentiment were stamped on a piece of Recollections White stamped with Stampin' Up Crosshatch in Close To My Heart Mink and layered on Close To My Heart Slate. The ribbon is American Crafts.
I seem to resolve every year to use up the stash of leftover envelops that find their way into my stash. There were a couple in interesting shapes (or sizes?) and I decided to use them for a couple of these sympathy card. The longer length was perfect for this poppy image. I love how it's anchored with the ribbon. The sentiment is very elegant but also subtle. A lovely result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is one of a series of sympathy cards I'm crafting to replenish my stash.
The card base is Stampin' Up Sahara Sand. The image is Stampin' Up Oh, So Lovely stamped in Close To My Heart Slate and coloured with Stampin' Up Pastels. The sentiment is Stampin' Up Teeny Tiny Wishes also stamped in Slate ink. The image and sentiment were stamped on a piece of Recollections White stamped with Stampin' Up Crosshatch in Close To My Heart Mink and layered on Close To My Heart Slate. The ribbon is American Crafts.
I seem to resolve every year to use up the stash of leftover envelops that find their way into my stash. There were a couple in interesting shapes (or sizes?) and I decided to use them for a couple of these sympathy card. The longer length was perfect for this poppy image. I love how it's anchored with the ribbon. The sentiment is very elegant but also subtle. A lovely result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Saturday, January 19, 2019
Love Bird Wishes
Hello everyone,
Today's post is a birthday card I crafted for a girlfriend.
The printed papers are BasicGrey Urban Prairie layered with Recollections White. The sentiment is My Favorite Things Brushstroke Expressions stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin and layered on more Urban Prairie. The ribbon is Stampin' Up. The card is highlighted with Diamond Stickles.
This is a very busy piece of printed paper! The scale however is great for a card and there are lots of colours with with to coordinate. I chose to use one of the solid papers in the Urban Prairie collection because this green is a lovely spring-like colour. This paper also has a bit of a European feel to it which I know my girlfriend will like. This card has been mailed so I used this more flat ribbon application. I wish I'd placed it a little higher. Regardless, it's still a lovely card.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is a birthday card I crafted for a girlfriend.
The printed papers are BasicGrey Urban Prairie layered with Recollections White. The sentiment is My Favorite Things Brushstroke Expressions stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin and layered on more Urban Prairie. The ribbon is Stampin' Up. The card is highlighted with Diamond Stickles.
This is a very busy piece of printed paper! The scale however is great for a card and there are lots of colours with with to coordinate. I chose to use one of the solid papers in the Urban Prairie collection because this green is a lovely spring-like colour. This paper also has a bit of a European feel to it which I know my girlfriend will like. This card has been mailed so I used this more flat ribbon application. I wish I'd placed it a little higher. Regardless, it's still a lovely card.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Friday, January 18, 2019
Elephant Wishes
Hello everyone,
Today's post is the second commissioned elephant card that I crafted for one of my husband's colleagues.
The image was crafted from a variety of paper punches and Spellbinders Nestabilities with Broken Glass Hand Crafted Silver paper. The sentiment is Close To My Heart Happy Birthday stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin and layered on Close To My Heart Sweet Leaf. The image and sentiment are layered on a white of unknown origin, Stampin' Up Soft Sky and more Broken Glass Hand Crafted Silver paper. The heart was cut from a red Bazzill with Sizzix Hearts, Paisley Sizzlit.
This cute elephant was 'cased' from Pinterest. I love how the textured silver paper really makes the image look like an elephant! I wasn't sure about this card from the get go but I just kept going as I really wanted it to work. I did have the borrowed stamped elephant images in reserve. I worried that the card to be too juvenile but in the end, it worked. I doubt I would craft another card like this but overall, the result is pretty decent and the recipient loved it.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is the second commissioned elephant card that I crafted for one of my husband's colleagues.
The image was crafted from a variety of paper punches and Spellbinders Nestabilities with Broken Glass Hand Crafted Silver paper. The sentiment is Close To My Heart Happy Birthday stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin and layered on Close To My Heart Sweet Leaf. The image and sentiment are layered on a white of unknown origin, Stampin' Up Soft Sky and more Broken Glass Hand Crafted Silver paper. The heart was cut from a red Bazzill with Sizzix Hearts, Paisley Sizzlit.
This cute elephant was 'cased' from Pinterest. I love how the textured silver paper really makes the image look like an elephant! I wasn't sure about this card from the get go but I just kept going as I really wanted it to work. I did have the borrowed stamped elephant images in reserve. I worried that the card to be too juvenile but in the end, it worked. I doubt I would craft another card like this but overall, the result is pretty decent and the recipient loved it.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Thursday, January 17, 2019
Wild Anniversary
Hello everyone,
Today's post is an anniversary card that was commissioned by a colleague of my husband.
The printed paper is BoBunny Jungle Life Wildlife layered on Stampin' Up Early Espresso. The sentiment is Inkadinkado stamped in Early Espresso on Recollections Vanilla and layered on more Early Espresso. The ribbon is Michael's and the gold heart brad is of unknown origin.
The only hints I received for this commission was elephants. This was a bit of an issue as I've one elephant stamp and it's a distinctive baby stamp. I don't generally do elephants (pandas, yes) and I wasn't keen on buying an elephant stamp for a single card. I did borrow a stamp from a friend and stamped some images to keep for any future commissions. I found this wildlife paper at my local stamping store and thought if I trimmed it carefully the elephants would be prominent. I have to say, as hard as this card was to craft, the results are pretty decent. My husband's colleague was pleased and that's what counts.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is an anniversary card that was commissioned by a colleague of my husband.
The printed paper is BoBunny Jungle Life Wildlife layered on Stampin' Up Early Espresso. The sentiment is Inkadinkado stamped in Early Espresso on Recollections Vanilla and layered on more Early Espresso. The ribbon is Michael's and the gold heart brad is of unknown origin.
The only hints I received for this commission was elephants. This was a bit of an issue as I've one elephant stamp and it's a distinctive baby stamp. I don't generally do elephants (pandas, yes) and I wasn't keen on buying an elephant stamp for a single card. I did borrow a stamp from a friend and stamped some images to keep for any future commissions. I found this wildlife paper at my local stamping store and thought if I trimmed it carefully the elephants would be prominent. I have to say, as hard as this card was to craft, the results are pretty decent. My husband's colleague was pleased and that's what counts.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
Doggy Wishes
Hello everyone,
Today's card is a very pretty and fun custom card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Pretty In Pink. The printed paper is Anna Griffin layered on Recollections Vanilla. The sentiment is Flonz Happy Birthday stamped in Altenew Pure Graphite on more Recollections Vanilla and layered on Pretty In Pink. The brad embellishments are Crafts and are highlighted with Raspberry Stickles.
The recipient of this card is a dog lover which proved great inspiration. I loved all the pink elements so that was another theme to follow. It's actually a very simple card which focuses on the paper. A simple sentiment and a little glitter. A great result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's card is a very pretty and fun custom card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Pretty In Pink. The printed paper is Anna Griffin layered on Recollections Vanilla. The sentiment is Flonz Happy Birthday stamped in Altenew Pure Graphite on more Recollections Vanilla and layered on Pretty In Pink. The brad embellishments are Crafts and are highlighted with Raspberry Stickles.
The recipient of this card is a dog lover which proved great inspiration. I loved all the pink elements so that was another theme to follow. It's actually a very simple card which focuses on the paper. A simple sentiment and a little glitter. A great result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Tuesday, January 15, 2019
Floral Focus
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another fun spring-inspired birthday card.
The card base is Recollections White. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on a white of unknown origin and Close To My Heart Smoothie. The images and sentiment are Stampin' Up Birthday Blossoms stamped in Altenew Permanent Black and coloured with Chameleon Y02, RD3, GR1, GR2 and R3 markers. The image/sentiment panel is layered on more Smoothie. The card is highlighted with Diamond Stickles.
This card is another breath of fresh air during a cold Ottawa winter. I'm not totally pleased with the colouring but it's not the worst I've even done. I tried to really mimic the flowers on the printed paper but couldn't get the ink light enough. The shape of the two different flowers is similar though. I added a few drops of Stickles for that little bit of sparkle.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another fun spring-inspired birthday card.
The card base is Recollections White. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on a white of unknown origin and Close To My Heart Smoothie. The images and sentiment are Stampin' Up Birthday Blossoms stamped in Altenew Permanent Black and coloured with Chameleon Y02, RD3, GR1, GR2 and R3 markers. The image/sentiment panel is layered on more Smoothie. The card is highlighted with Diamond Stickles.
This card is another breath of fresh air during a cold Ottawa winter. I'm not totally pleased with the colouring but it's not the worst I've even done. I tried to really mimic the flowers on the printed paper but couldn't get the ink light enough. The shape of the two different flowers is similar though. I added a few drops of Stickles for that little bit of sparkle.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Monday, January 14, 2019
Fantastic Fern Wishes
Hello everyone,
Today's card is part of the commissioned series I've been posting the past couple of weeks.
The card base is Stampin' Up Basic Grey. The printed paper is Provo Craft Fern's Garden layered on Core'dinations Black and a vanilla of unknown origin. The sentiment is Magenta stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a vanilla of unknown origin. The embellishments are from Fabricland.
This is such a serene birthday card. I love the colour variations in the greens and greys. The watercolour style of the images is also very appealing. I intended this to be a masculine birthday card but it really is quite neutral. This sentiment has always been a favourite. I love the horizontal and vertical font combination. The square embellishments coordinate perfectly with the squares of the sentiment.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's card is part of the commissioned series I've been posting the past couple of weeks.
The card base is Stampin' Up Basic Grey. The printed paper is Provo Craft Fern's Garden layered on Core'dinations Black and a vanilla of unknown origin. The sentiment is Magenta stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a vanilla of unknown origin. The embellishments are from Fabricland.
This is such a serene birthday card. I love the colour variations in the greens and greys. The watercolour style of the images is also very appealing. I intended this to be a masculine birthday card but it really is quite neutral. This sentiment has always been a favourite. I love the horizontal and vertical font combination. The square embellishments coordinate perfectly with the squares of the sentiment.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Sunday, January 13, 2019
Spring Wishes
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another card in the commissioned series I recently crafted.
The card base is Stampin' Up Daffodil Delight. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Close To My Heart Dutch Blue and a white of unknown origin. The sentiment is My Favorite Things Brushstroke Expressions stamped in Close To My Heart Indian Corn Blue on a white of unknown origin and layered on more Daffodil Delight. The ribbon is American Crafts. The butterfly embellishment is a dimensional sticker highlighted with Turquoise Stickles.
It's been a couple of pretty bitterly cold days in Ottawa so this card is a lovely breath of warm air. I love the range of colours in the printed paper which, at least to me, is reminiscent of a Vincent van Gogh painting. I've had a number of these dimensional stickers in my stash for eons and thought it was the perfect addition to this very pretty card.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another card in the commissioned series I recently crafted.
The card base is Stampin' Up Daffodil Delight. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Close To My Heart Dutch Blue and a white of unknown origin. The sentiment is My Favorite Things Brushstroke Expressions stamped in Close To My Heart Indian Corn Blue on a white of unknown origin and layered on more Daffodil Delight. The ribbon is American Crafts. The butterfly embellishment is a dimensional sticker highlighted with Turquoise Stickles.
It's been a couple of pretty bitterly cold days in Ottawa so this card is a lovely breath of warm air. I love the range of colours in the printed paper which, at least to me, is reminiscent of a Vincent van Gogh painting. I've had a number of these dimensional stickers in my stash for eons and thought it was the perfect addition to this very pretty card.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Saturday, January 12, 2019
From Outer Space
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another card from the commissioned series I recently crafted.
The card base is Stampin' Up Night of Navy. The printed paper is Carta Bella layered on a red and a yellow Bazzill. The sentiment is Stampin' Up Delightful Dozen stamped in Close To My Heart Outdoor Denim on a vanilla of unknown origin and layered on more Night of Navy. The embellishment is a Twin Seven sticker.
This is another fun custom card. It's will be given to a grandson. I wanted it to be somewhat fun and I just love all the retro toys on the printed paper. It was a great piece of paper with which to work because it has all kinds of colours for coordinating. The images are also the perfect scale for a card. A great result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another card from the commissioned series I recently crafted.
The card base is Stampin' Up Night of Navy. The printed paper is Carta Bella layered on a red and a yellow Bazzill. The sentiment is Stampin' Up Delightful Dozen stamped in Close To My Heart Outdoor Denim on a vanilla of unknown origin and layered on more Night of Navy. The embellishment is a Twin Seven sticker.
This is another fun custom card. It's will be given to a grandson. I wanted it to be somewhat fun and I just love all the retro toys on the printed paper. It was a great piece of paper with which to work because it has all kinds of colours for coordinating. The images are also the perfect scale for a card. A great result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Friday, January 11, 2019
Birthday Robots
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another birthday card in the commissioned series I've been posting for the past couple of weeks.
The card base is Recollections white. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Recollections black. The images are Twin Seven stickers. The sentiment is Stampabilities Happy Birthday 01 stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin and layered on more Recollections black.
This is really fun kid card. While argyle isn't necessarily a kid paper, the colours in the stickers work perfectly with the paper. It's a really simple layout and I offset the sentiment to fit the larger robot on the left side of the card. I love the results!
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another birthday card in the commissioned series I've been posting for the past couple of weeks.
The card base is Recollections white. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Recollections black. The images are Twin Seven stickers. The sentiment is Stampabilities Happy Birthday 01 stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin and layered on more Recollections black.
This is really fun kid card. While argyle isn't necessarily a kid paper, the colours in the stickers work perfectly with the paper. It's a really simple layout and I offset the sentiment to fit the larger robot on the left side of the card. I love the results!
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Thursday, January 10, 2019
Baseball Birthday
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another custom commissioned birthday card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Real Red. The images are Recollections Baseball stickers affixed to an unknown white that was textured with Cuttlebug's Happy Birthday embossing folder and layered on Recollections Black. The sentiment is Stampin' Up Itty Bitty Wishes stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin and layered on more Real Red.
I've always loved the red/white/black colour combination. This colours for this card were drawn from the sticker colours. I thought using the embossing folder was inspired. I have a fair number of embossing folders and really don't use them enough. They certainly add great impact on a card and this is a fantastic result!
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another custom commissioned birthday card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Real Red. The images are Recollections Baseball stickers affixed to an unknown white that was textured with Cuttlebug's Happy Birthday embossing folder and layered on Recollections Black. The sentiment is Stampin' Up Itty Bitty Wishes stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin and layered on more Real Red.
I've always loved the red/white/black colour combination. This colours for this card were drawn from the sticker colours. I thought using the embossing folder was inspired. I have a fair number of embossing folders and really don't use them enough. They certainly add great impact on a card and this is a fantastic result!
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Wednesday, January 9, 2019
Curler's Birthday
Hello everyone,
Today's post is a curler's birthday card crafted as part of this latest commission.
The card base is Stampin' Up Smoky Slate. The images are Karen Foster Curling stickers adhered to a dark red Bazzill layered on a blue Bazzill. The sentiment is Avery Elle So Happy stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin. The banners were punched from a white of unknown origin and are highlighted with Fabricland silver embellishments.
I really love getting creative with these custom cards. I find it very rewarding to make something special that takes into account the recipients interests. Unlike yesterday's card, all the papers selected for this card were coordinated with the stickers. This card is for a young man so I kept it simple and straightforward. I'm very pleased with the results.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is a curler's birthday card crafted as part of this latest commission.
The card base is Stampin' Up Smoky Slate. The images are Karen Foster Curling stickers adhered to a dark red Bazzill layered on a blue Bazzill. The sentiment is Avery Elle So Happy stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin. The banners were punched from a white of unknown origin and are highlighted with Fabricland silver embellishments.
I really love getting creative with these custom cards. I find it very rewarding to make something special that takes into account the recipients interests. Unlike yesterday's card, all the papers selected for this card were coordinated with the stickers. This card is for a young man so I kept it simple and straightforward. I'm very pleased with the results.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Golfer's Birthday
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another card in the commissioned series I've recently crafted.
The card base is Stampin' Up Wild Wasabi. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on a white also of unknown origin. The sentiment is Flonz Happy Birthday stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin. The embellishments are Karen Foster Men's Tee Time stickers and silver brads.
I often use stickers on these types of special cards. In this case I rather liked the neutral background paper as it made it rather easy to find stickers that worked. I didn't worry all that much about coordinating the colours in the stickers as the rest of the card is so neutral. It's a pretty decent result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another card in the commissioned series I've recently crafted.
The card base is Stampin' Up Wild Wasabi. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on a white also of unknown origin. The sentiment is Flonz Happy Birthday stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin. The embellishments are Karen Foster Men's Tee Time stickers and silver brads.
I often use stickers on these types of special cards. In this case I rather liked the neutral background paper as it made it rather easy to find stickers that worked. I didn't worry all that much about coordinating the colours in the stickers as the rest of the card is so neutral. It's a pretty decent result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Monday, January 7, 2019
More Fall Leaves
Hello everyone,
Today's post is the last thinking of you cards in this latest commissioned series.
The card base is Stampin' Up Old Olive. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Stampin' Up Early Espresso. The images are Close To My Heart Fallen Leaves stamped in Altenew Forest Glades, Mango Smoothie, Mocha, Paper Bag and Teal Cave on a white of unknown origin and layered on more Early Espresso. The sentiment is Close To My Heart Sincere Expressions stamped in Early Espresso.
This card is all about the printed paper. I used the colours from the printed paper when stamping the images. This style of sentiment/image panel is one I've used many times. I think it's a way of tying everything together. I didn't add any embellishments because I didn't feel any more was needed. It's a great result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is the last thinking of you cards in this latest commissioned series.
The card base is Stampin' Up Old Olive. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Stampin' Up Early Espresso. The images are Close To My Heart Fallen Leaves stamped in Altenew Forest Glades, Mango Smoothie, Mocha, Paper Bag and Teal Cave on a white of unknown origin and layered on more Early Espresso. The sentiment is Close To My Heart Sincere Expressions stamped in Early Espresso.
This card is all about the printed paper. I used the colours from the printed paper when stamping the images. This style of sentiment/image panel is one I've used many times. I think it's a way of tying everything together. I didn't add any embellishments because I didn't feel any more was needed. It's a great result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Sunday, January 6, 2019
Neutral Stripes
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another commissioned thinking of you card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Night of Navy. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Stampin' Up Smoky Slate and a white of unknown origin. The sentiment is Stampin' Up Curly Cute stamped in Night of Navy on Recollections white and layered on more Night of Navy. The banner embellishments are punch from a brushed silver of unknown origin and are highlighted with TPC Studio Heartfelt Travel mini jewels.
This is a great masculine card. The colours of the stripes on the printed paper allow for easy colour coordination. I chose this particular sentiment because the dots in the font seem to speak to the 'v's which make up the stripes. I used this favourite and simple layout and of course, adding these mini banners is another favourite element.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another commissioned thinking of you card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Night of Navy. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Stampin' Up Smoky Slate and a white of unknown origin. The sentiment is Stampin' Up Curly Cute stamped in Night of Navy on Recollections white and layered on more Night of Navy. The banner embellishments are punch from a brushed silver of unknown origin and are highlighted with TPC Studio Heartfelt Travel mini jewels.
This is a great masculine card. The colours of the stripes on the printed paper allow for easy colour coordination. I chose this particular sentiment because the dots in the font seem to speak to the 'v's which make up the stripes. I used this favourite and simple layout and of course, adding these mini banners is another favourite element.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Saturday, January 5, 2019
Petite Paisleys
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another thinking of you card in this series of commissioned cards.
The card base is Stampin' Up Smoky Slate. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on a pale yellow Recollections. The sentiment is Hero Arts Everyday Sayings stamped in Close To My Heart Outdoor Denim on more pale yellow. The brads are of unknown origin.
One of the things I tried to do with this series of cards is to use up some of the scrap paper pieces that I have in my stash. They seem to multiply more quickly than I can use them. I love paisley and this piece has paisleys which are the perfect scale for a card. It was interesting to use yellow for both layering and the sentiment, something quite outside my comfort zone. I find yellow a very challenging colour to use but this one is so pale it's almost vanilla. Again, this is a very simple layout that makes for a great result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another thinking of you card in this series of commissioned cards.
The card base is Stampin' Up Smoky Slate. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on a pale yellow Recollections. The sentiment is Hero Arts Everyday Sayings stamped in Close To My Heart Outdoor Denim on more pale yellow. The brads are of unknown origin.
One of the things I tried to do with this series of cards is to use up some of the scrap paper pieces that I have in my stash. They seem to multiply more quickly than I can use them. I love paisley and this piece has paisleys which are the perfect scale for a card. It was interesting to use yellow for both layering and the sentiment, something quite outside my comfort zone. I find yellow a very challenging colour to use but this one is so pale it's almost vanilla. Again, this is a very simple layout that makes for a great result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Friday, January 4, 2019
Fall Thoughts
Hello everyone,
Today's post is yet another thinking of you card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Smoky Slate. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Recollections Black. The sentiment is Hero Arts Everyday Sayings stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin and layered on a rust Bazzill. The brad is also of unknown origin.
This paper is a little on the different side for me but there was something quite appealing about these fall leaves. It's a very neutral card. The layout couldn't be more simple with the various layers all coordinating very well. I love using both horizontal and vertical banners. In this application, I find the points of the banners speak very well to the points of the leaves. If all cards came together so easily, I'd be a very happy crafter.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is yet another thinking of you card.
The card base is Stampin' Up Smoky Slate. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Recollections Black. The sentiment is Hero Arts Everyday Sayings stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin and layered on a rust Bazzill. The brad is also of unknown origin.
This paper is a little on the different side for me but there was something quite appealing about these fall leaves. It's a very neutral card. The layout couldn't be more simple with the various layers all coordinating very well. I love using both horizontal and vertical banners. In this application, I find the points of the banners speak very well to the points of the leaves. If all cards came together so easily, I'd be a very happy crafter.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Thursday, January 3, 2019
A Simple Butterfly
Hello everyone,
Today's post is another thinking of you card.
The card base is Close To My Heart Glacier. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Stampin' Up Confetti. The sentiment is a stamp of unknown origin stamped is Stampin' Up Early Espresso on a white of unknown origin. The butterfly was punched from a scrap of Ranger alcohol inked glossy paper and is highlighted with Platinum Liquid Pearls.
Of all the butterfly supplies that I have in my stash, this is the most simple. I wanted these cards to be pretty neutral and simple so I thought this particular butterfly was a good choice. I also felt it worked well with all the stripes in the printed paper. I chose to layer with Confetti white because it's a solid white and it also worked well with the 'distressed' style of the stripes. It's a simple card and a great result.
I hope you enjoy this card an come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is another thinking of you card.
The card base is Close To My Heart Glacier. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Stampin' Up Confetti. The sentiment is a stamp of unknown origin stamped is Stampin' Up Early Espresso on a white of unknown origin. The butterfly was punched from a scrap of Ranger alcohol inked glossy paper and is highlighted with Platinum Liquid Pearls.
Of all the butterfly supplies that I have in my stash, this is the most simple. I wanted these cards to be pretty neutral and simple so I thought this particular butterfly was a good choice. I also felt it worked well with all the stripes in the printed paper. I chose to layer with Confetti white because it's a solid white and it also worked well with the 'distressed' style of the stripes. It's a simple card and a great result.
I hope you enjoy this card an come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Thinking Of Dragonflies
Hello everyone,
Today's post is one of the thinking of you cards I crafted for this latest commissioned series.
The card base is Close To My Heart Hydrangea. The printed paper is Hot Off The Press Dragonfly Collage. The sentiment is Stampin' Up Wetland stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin and layered on more Hydrangea.
This is a very simple card which uses the dragonfly as the jumping off point. I love the shades of purple and blue. The sentiment is a simple mix of fonts and is a great scale, not only for the card, but the paper punches I have on hand. I've had quite a bit of success with layering punched pieces recently. It's a great result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Today's post is one of the thinking of you cards I crafted for this latest commissioned series.
The card base is Close To My Heart Hydrangea. The printed paper is Hot Off The Press Dragonfly Collage. The sentiment is Stampin' Up Wetland stamped in Versafine Onyx Black on a white of unknown origin and layered on more Hydrangea.
This is a very simple card which uses the dragonfly as the jumping off point. I love the shades of purple and blue. The sentiment is a simple mix of fonts and is a great scale, not only for the card, but the paper punches I have on hand. I've had quite a bit of success with layering punched pieces recently. It's a great result.
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
Tuesday, January 1, 2019
Happy New Year
Happy New Year!
This first post of 2019 is the last Christmas card I crafted in this commissioned series.
The card base is Stampin' Up Real Red. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Recollections Black and Vanilla. The sentiment is Stampin' Up More Merry Messages stamped in Recollections Vanilla in Versafine Onyx Black. The embellishment is a Teresa Collins Candy Cane Lane brad.
This is such a quick and easy card! I trimmed the printed paper carefully so the bird sat on top of the sentiment. I do love this paper, finding quite retro. I wish I had more of it because I could use it over and over. It's not the greatest scale for a card but I think it worked because of the trimming. A great card!
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle
This first post of 2019 is the last Christmas card I crafted in this commissioned series.
The card base is Stampin' Up Real Red. The printed paper is of unknown origin layered on Recollections Black and Vanilla. The sentiment is Stampin' Up More Merry Messages stamped in Recollections Vanilla in Versafine Onyx Black. The embellishment is a Teresa Collins Candy Cane Lane brad.
This is such a quick and easy card! I trimmed the printed paper carefully so the bird sat on top of the sentiment. I do love this paper, finding quite retro. I wish I had more of it because I could use it over and over. It's not the greatest scale for a card but I think it worked because of the trimming. A great card!
I hope you enjoy this card and come back to SPI again soon.
Gisèle