Ombre Fringe

Posted on March 12, 2013 | 9 comments

Ombre is a beautiful tone on tone color trend. You can create it in so many different ways. With inks, mists, paint, etc. it’s all about the saturation of color.

From Merriam-Webster…

om·bré
adjective \ˈäm-ˌbrā\ 

Definition of OMBRÉ

: having colors or tones that shade into each other —used especially of fabrics in which the color is graduated from light to dark
— ombré noun

Origin of OMBRÉ

French, past participle of ombrer to shade, from Italian ombrare, from ombra shade, from Latin umbra

First Known Use: 1893

Today I’ve tried out an ombre idea I’ve had tucked away in the back of my mind for awhile. There’s nothing like a good challenge to get ideas out of your head and onto a project.

Cath @ Moxie Fab World is currently hosting a week of great challenges inspired by the latest Card Creations special issue. If you’re looking for some creative inspiration, be sure to check it out as the challenges are all based on some of the best and latest trends.

Of course this card is for the ombre challenge and I’ve created an ombre textural embellishment with the simplest of materials…graduated cardstock. Bazzill makes the most gorgeous heavy cardstock that is specifically designed for cardmaking. It stands up to pretty much any technique or heavy embellishment you throw at it.

{LOVE}

Colors used here are Robin’s Egg, Candy Necklace & Jawbreaker. Robin’s Egg is the top one and is my absolute favorite hue. Each of the cardstock layers was cut with a set of Fringe Scissors. You can cut them by hand but I love how perfect these scissors make the cuts and how quickly they trim up.

Final Notes:

  • sentiment is a rub-on from an old Melissa Frances? rub-on sheet
  • misting the flower gives gives it a very subtle ombre effect as well

Thanks for stopping by!

Supplies:

9 Comments

Posted in Card Designs, Challenges

Springtime in Paris

Posted on March 8, 2013 | 13 comments

I’ve been searching for a little inspiration lately. I needed a bit of a break so I took it, but for some reason, this time it’s been really hard to get back to designing again.

So…..

What to do?

Well, I turned to some of the things I’ve done in the past.

  • took some more time away
  • took some time for myself…I’ve started going back to the gym
  • bought some new crafting goodies
  • cleaned up by craft space (well, mostly!)
  • found a challenge that inspired me

It wasn’t any one of these things on their own but probably a combination of all of them. And so finally, I’m back in my craft room making things. I hope it lasts!

Part of what got me designing again was a challenge. I love the CASE Study Challenge Blog and it’s been awhile since I’ve participated so it was one of the first places I went for inspiration. What clinched it was the muse for March is my good friend Julie Ebersole. Julie has been inspiring me for YEARS and I just had to play along with this challenge. This weeks inspiration piece is just stunning so please, check out the card and the challenge here.

I was inspired by the beautiful white embossing on Kraft cardstock and her stunning use of the pop of warm vibrant color. The simple layout is basically the same too.

To change it up, I’ve created my card in my own shabby, embellishment cluster style. I couldn’t resist a new Hero Arts stamp I just ordered that arrived in the mail. I just adore that Eiffel tower and this card design is going to find it’s way to my sweet daughter. She loves mail and all things Paris so I know she’ll enjoy it.

The embellishments are an eclectic combo of many different colors, manufacturers and items. I always find it so fun to play around with seeing what will mix and match together.

Happy creating!

Supplies:

 

13 Comments

Posted in Card Designs, Challenges, Maya Road

Just Around the Corner

Posted on March 4, 2013 | 2 comments

Spring is just around the corner. While last week was pretty wintery, this week we’re headed for a big thaw. I’m getting a little excited thinking of nature coming to life again. What a beautiful time of year…full of hope and promise.

Lately I’ve been inspired by the thought of Spring and created this stamped card design featuring stamping and Liquid Applique Blossoms.

I’ve created a tutorial with step outs to share in the CLASSroom so please feel free to join me here for all the details.

Have a beautiful day!

2 Comments

Posted in Card Designs, Hero Arts, Tutorials & Techniques

the forecast: sunny days ahead

Posted on February 26, 2013 | 3 comments

Not too many weeks left until Spring. I’m actually still enjoying winter but I know that I’ll be excited when the Spring weather hits. It’s always so nice to shed that bulky heavy outerwear and to watch the earth come alive again.

I love chipboard for creating fun and dimensional cards. This sweet Maya Road When Skies Are Grey set inspired this design. Perfect for spring or for someone who is a little under the weather.

You can find the details of this design and another sunny card on the Maya Road Design Team Blog. Check it out!

Have a sweet and sunny day!

3 Comments

Posted in Card Designs, Maya Road

To Have & To Hold

Posted on February 22, 2013 | 6 comments

I can hardly believe it’s been almost a week since that special day. Last Saturday my son, James and his wife were married and it was the most beautiful day. To see them both so happy together made my heart so full with joy. All of their siblings on both sides were in the wedding party and such a beautiful day and celebration of love & family.

I had a very small hand in the wedding prep being the mother of the groom, but was thrilled to create a few digital projects for them. The above word art is one I created for them. A surprise for Shannon actually. It was framed 18×24″ and is for their new home but it decorated the wedding reception as well.

Trying to enjoy the day and keep track of my smaller children, the ring bearers, I ended up not being able to pull out my good camera and so, have very few pictures to date. The above photo is a quick snap on my phone, taken shortly after the ceremony.

I’ve also been begging and borrowing photos from family and friends while we wait for the professional photos to come back. My sister-in-law Elizabeth took this one. I think they both look stunning.

Once again, James & Shannon, I wish you every joy and blessing!

6 Comments

Posted in Card Designs, Digital Designs, personal, Photos

i do

Posted on February 15, 2013 | 3 comments

The past couple weeks have just flown by. I don’t think I’ve ever gone two weeks without posting since I started this creative blog years ago. There’s been lots going on at my house and tomorrow is the big day. I am so excited for my oldest son and his beautiful bride as they say their vows tomorrow. Something tells me there will be a few tears. Of joy of course!

Their wedding card from me is simple and elegant and suits them well. I hope they like it! You’re actually getting a peek at it before they do.

Today I’m in the CLASSroom sharing the step outs and details. I hope you’ll join me!

I’d also like to take this time to congratulate James and Shannon. I couldn’t be happier for you both! Wishing you every joy, blessing and happiness on your wedding day and always!

 

3 Comments

Posted in Card Designs, personal, Photos

a paper pieced valentine

Posted on February 1, 2013 | 1 comment

We’re in the home stretch. Counting down the days until Valentine’s and more importantly in our house, my son’s wedding. I’ve been busy finalizing wedding programs and thank you’s and a few other details. I did manage to take time out to create today’s card for the CLASSroom.

It features a paper pieced background technique. I hope you’ll join me here.

Have a fabulous weekend!

1 Comment

Posted in Card Designs, Ellen Hutson LLC projects, Hero Arts