I think we all have suffered from "Stamper’s Block." However, I found that by simply opening my eyes to what’s immediately around me, I can find all sorts of creative inspiration. Today’s example, was inspired by a J. Crew catalog. The scarf colors and argyle design were recreated in the card (using the Print Pattern Background stamp). I keep a stamping ideas folder filled with favorite
patterns and color ideas, much of it torn from the pages of clothing,
furniture and rug catalogs. So when my brain can only conjure "fluff," I reach for my little folder and find some fresh ideas.
This project offers an even more in depth look at the Time Well Spent hostess stamp set (Spring Summer Collection, available Jan. 2). It’s great for the florals used but also includes a heart (think Valentine’s Day) and a charming butterfly (think Spring). It’s a perfect set to play with markers or to watercolor.
Most of this card is pretty straight forward and the details are below. However, there are a few touches I should share with you. I used Stazon Jet Black ink for the sentiment (SplitCoast Challenge WT146). It gave a dark, crisp impression on the So Saffron paper. I tried Basic Gray and Basic Black first and didn’t have anywhere near the result. As always I popped up many of the images on dimensionals or pop-up glue dots and used a Sakura Black Gel Pen on the dots and the small (center) flower petals for some texture and sparkle. Finally, this card was a cutting and snipping extravaganza. A small flower is cut and layered on top of the large flower (also cut, with a dimensional in between). Those tiny little stamens on the corner flowers (layered on top of the photo corners) were not what I would call "quick and easy." However, the result of having the my "little guys" floating over the card made it a worthwhile venture.
Hugs and Pretties. Stay Inspired! Mary
Stamp Set: Time Well Spent (hostess, 111054), It’s All Good (109308), Print Pattern Background (105167)
Paper: Whisper White (100730), So Saffron (105118), Basic Gray (108692), Basic Black (102851)
Ink: Jet Black Stazon (101406), Basic Gray (109120)
Cool Tools: Square Punches 1 1/4" (104400) & 1 3/8" (103375), Photo Corner Punch (109042), Stamping Sponges (101610)
Perfect Touches: Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430), Pop-Up Glue Dots (104183), Ribbon Originals Sherbet (109184), Non SU Amber Rhinestone and Black Zig Zag Ribbon, Sakura Gel Pen Black
i love this. i love the saffron and black together. i don’t think i have used that combo before. the flower looks great with the saffron on the edge of the white flower with black touches. love it!
this is fabulous. I haven’t used print pattern in ages and you remind me to use it! Gorgeous. You have a great eye for details and patterns.
Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2008