Sassy & Sweet Notes

Mix-Ability Challenge: Color It Twice

Happy Friday!! There's a new Mix-Ability Challenge posted today in the challenge forum at SplitCoastStampers! The challenge is called Color It Twice (Mix50), hosted by yours truly! The challenge asks you to color your image with alcohol markers, and then add even MORE color to the already colored image using colored pencils. It's a great way to add more detail to your images, especially for things like tiny thin whiskers on bunnies! *grin*

For my project, I chose to use this super cute bunny stamp image from Stampin' Up. It's an oldie, but personal favorite. I started by coloring the image with Touch Twin markers. Then I added extra details to the already colored image with Prismacolor colored pencils. I was able to give the bunny more of a "furry" look, add tiny cute whiskers, rosy cheeks, and shading on her dress. I was also able to add individual blades of grass, giving her a place to stand.

I hope you try this technique. Any brand of alcohol marker can be used, and any brand of colored pencil. Explore with what you have, and see how it works! Using colored pencils to enhance markers is an inexpensive way to add variety and color range to a limited marker collection.

The idea behind the Mix-Ability Challenge is to make mixed media simple and approachable, and to let you experiment using things you already have. Each Friday a new challenge is hosted, but there is no time limit, so you can participate whenever you'd like on each challenge. Join us, won't you!?

 

Supplies
Ink: Memento Black
Paper: Neenah, Paper Accents, Stampin' Up, K&Company Designer Paper
Stamps: Stampin' Up (bunny), A Muse (sentiment)
ShinHan Touch Twin markers: BR107, GY175, R136, CG1, WG2, PB144, Y36, R6
Dies: Polaroid (Lawn Fawn), Egg (Sizzix), Banner (MFT)
Other: Vintage Button, Twine, Prismacolor Colored Pencils

Fancy Fold Template

This is for those of you who were interested in the measurements I used for the Flyin' High Santa fancy fold card I recently shared.

This template will show you in Purple where to make score lines on your card base, and Red lines where you need to make cuts. Click on the photo for a larger view.

Once you have the folds and cuts made, use this photo to see how to press the card base into shape. I applied a bit of adhesive to the small middle section that's at the top of the card in this photo.

Hope this helps!

Upcyled Gift Tag

I wrapped up a few holiday gifts tonight, and thought I'd share one of the gift tags I made. I started with a tag that was on a pet toy that was a super cute shape, and made of very sturdy chipboard ... perfect for altering! I covered both sides of the tag with patterned paper and used a few die cut shapes and stamps to decorate the shape. The altered project is much "cuter", and made easy enough by adding a little glue, paper, and stamps!

Here's what I started with...

Maybe you'll see something in your own holiday shopping stash that can be upcycled for holiday wrapping!

 

Supplies
Stamps: Lawn Fawn (dog), Studio G (alpha)
ShinHan Touch Twin markers
Paper: American Crafts, Neenah, BoBunny, The Stamps of Life, Dog Toy Tag
Ink: Memento Black
Dies: Scalloped Edge (Sizzix), Egg and Banner (The Stamps of Life), Dog (Lawn Fawn)
Other: Tracing Wheel, eyelet

Silence Those Drawers!

If you're a stamper or scrapbooker, you probably own (or are at least familiar with) white storage cubes similar to these. And if you own these kinds of storage cubes, you're probably also familiar with the horrible SQUEAKING the drawers sometimes make.

The squeaking drawer is usually the bottom drawer of the unit. In a three-drawer unit, the top two drawers have a nice plastic rail they slide on when you open and close the drawer. But the bottom drawer slides against painted wood, and that is what causes the squeak.

Because I can't stand that squeaking noise, and because I bet you can't stand it either, I thought I would share my quick, easy, and inexpensive way to silence those drawers!

First, remove the treasures you keep in your squeaky drawer. Take the now empty drawer completely out of the storage unit, and turn it upside down on your table.

Add a layer of 1/4" dry adhesive (like score tape or redline tape) to the back corners of the drawer's base, along the left and right sides of the drawer. I added about 5 inches of adhesive to each side of this drawer. I've found that you don't need to cover the entire length of the drawer sides - just a few inches will do.

Cut a strip of felt (inexpensive sheet felt will do) about 3/8" wide and press it onto the adhesive. Put your drawer back into the storage unit, and admire how quietly your drawer now slides.

Shape Changing Chicks: Tutorial

Earlier this week I posted this "four cute chicks" card and wrote about how I was able to create the various body shapes for the chicks. Since then, I've had several questions and requests for more details on how I was able to create the various body shapes using the same stamp, so I thought I'd put together a quick "how to" in photos. Hope this is helpful!

For my supplies, I'm using the Eggs4Easter set by The Stamps of Life, a clear block, an image mask (made from a sticky note), and ink for stamping.

What makes this shape changing technique possible is the unique way the chick stamp was made. The center of the stamp is not filled with polymer, which allows it to be shaped differently than it's original shape. If the stamp's center was filled with polymer (like most clear stamps are), it would not be possible to change the chick's shape.

Let me show you how!

Place the chick stamp on a clear block, ink the image, and stamp the chick in it's original shape. Also stamp the chick on a sticky note and cut it out to create the image mask needed for the next steps.

Adjust the shape of the chick on the clear block and ink it for stamping. See how the open area in the center of the chick's body allows the reshaping? If this area was filled in with polymer, the body shape would not be able to be changed.

With the sticky note mask placed over the first stamped image (mine is white with a red and yellow dot), stamp the second (taller) chick in place. By covering up the first stamped image with the image mask, you are preventing the ink of the second image from overlapping the first image.

Once again reshape the stamp on the block. This time make him shorter and, well, plumper! Again, it's that open center of the image that's allowing it to be reshaped.

With the mask still in place over the first stamped image, stamp the third chick in place.

Remove the mask to reveal your grouping.

Finish building your chicks with other stamp images provided in the set, masking as needed. I masked their bodies while stamping the legs, so I could adjust the length of the legs and not risk getting ink in their bodies.

On my original card I used this technique to stamp an original shaped chick, two tall chicks, and added a fourth plump chick that was stamped on a separate sheet of paper, cut out, and adhered to my card using foam adhesive for a bit of dimension.

While it's not always possible to reshape stamps like this since most of the time the centers are filled edge to edge with polymer, keep your eye out for possibilities of when you can! Sentiments are easily changed from straight lines to curves, so keep that in mind, too!

 

Supplies:
Stamp: Eggs4Easter by The Stamps of Life
Ink: Black Memento, Antique Linen Distress Ink by Ranger, Dusty Durango by Stampin' Up!
ShinHan Touch Twin markers: Y36, YR31, YR32, R3, R2, GY175, 0, CG.5
Paper: Neenah, Bo Bunny
Other: Prismacolor Pencil (Kelp Green), button, baker's twine, tracing wheel

Snow Stormin' Snowman

Inspired by last weekend's northeastern snow storm, I blasted this Christmas Cuties snowman card with loads of glitter! He seems quite delighted, wouldn't you say? After I colored the image, I sprayed the entire layer with spray glue -- a nice even layer -- and then sprinkled on the glitter. Once the adhesive was dry (takes very little time), I rubbed my finger over the entire surface to romove any extra glitter and even out the pokey-upy pieces. Once you try it, you'll see what I mean...

And if you think this project is sparkly, you should have seen ME afterwards! *ha!*

I also added a little wool felt holly decoration to the button/twine bow. I had a very small scrap of felt on my desk left over from the wool felt rolled flower hairclips I made last month, so I did a little snip-snip with the scissors, and ta da! Holly leaves! They coordinate nicely with the Jillybean Soup paper. Festive!

High Hopes Holiday Release Blog Hop (Card and Video)

To celebrate the holiday release for High Hopes Rubber Stamps, the designers are participating in a blog hop to showcase the new images. If you're participating in the hop, Andrea was before me and Kristine is next. If you didn't get here from Andrea's blog, you may want to pop on over to the High Hopes blog and start at the top.

Hopefully an added bonus, if you liked the Piggly Wiggly and Coloring a Snowman videos I've shared this week, I've got another treat for you! I filmed myself coloring this image, too! What can I say ... I was on a video roll! (Still no music on the videos... and the goat goober is still present as well. What fun!)

Enjoy this sped up look at me coloring this snowman.

And like always, if you have trouble viewing the video here on my blog, you can check it out here on my YouTube channel. Oh! And I wanted to mention too, if you want to get a BIGGER look at the videos, click on the little four arrow button at the far right of the video control bar -- just right of the YouTube button. That will make the video viewing window full screen. Then, to get back to regular viewing, press the ESC key on your keyboard (the ESC key is in the upper left corner of your keyboard, Dad!)  *grin*

To continue on with the blog hop, shake yourself on over to Kristine's blog!

Snowman: High Hopes Rubber Stamps
Memento Black Tuxedo Ink
Paper: Neenah, Memory Box, Olive cardstock
Markers: Copic (0; C1; W3, W5, W7; E13, E30, E31, E41, E42, E43, E44; YG95, YG97, YG91; B91, B93, B95; R39, R59; YR14, YR24; R01)

High Hopes Christmas Joy Snowman (Card and Video)

High Hopes Rubber Stamps is releasing new holiday images on Thursday of this week (tomorrow), and today the designers are giving you a look at them. I chose to use this cheery Christmas Joy snowman, dressed up in his finest star buttons.

If you liked the Piggly Wiggly coloring video I shared earlier this week, then I've got a treat for you! I filmed myself coloring this image, too! (Still no music on the videos...)

Enjoy!

Oh, and like always, if you have trouble viewing the video here on my blog, you can check it out here on my YouTube channel.

Snowman: High Hopes Rubber Stamps
Memento Black Tuxedo Ink
Paper: Neenah, Memory Box, black cardstock
Markers: Copic (0; C1; W1, W2, W3, W4, W5; E9, E31, E35, E37, E44, E53, E99; BG93, BG70, BG72, BG96; Y17, Y26, Y28; YR14, YR24; R01)

Piggly Wiggly Card (Video)

I get asked frequently if I'll demonstrate how I color or paint the images I use on my projects. So I took a video of the process of me coloring this image, and making the card. The video doesn't have any sound (don't have music files to add to videos), so hum your own tune while you watch. *grin* Also, it's in 3x speed, so not to take up too much of your time!

If you have trouble viewing the video here on the blog, you can check it out here on my YouTube channel.

Enjoy!

PS: Let me know if this is something you'd like to see more of.

- Hamselot (#CT073): Whipper Snapper Designs
- Sentiment: Garden of Friendship cling set, Whipper Snapper Designs
- Memento Black Tuxedo Ink
- Paper: Neenah, October Afternoon
- Markers: Copic (0, R11, R20, B93, B95, B97, E13, E15, R37, R39, R59, C1, C2, C3, YG03, YG23, YR21, YR24 -- hope I didn't miss any!)
- Colored Pencil: LYRA Pompeian Red 600-91
- MISC: Seam binding, tracing wheel, Tombow Mono Multi glue, antique button, twine, Stampin Up foam dimensionals, Gamsol and paper tortillon for blending
- Smudge on camera lens: Baaaaad Boxcar Betty

Faux Stitching Tutorial

I wrote a tutorial on faux stitching that is posted on the High Hopes blog today. Check it out!

Smiling Daisies

Hopefully you've been able to check out the samples the featured designers have shared for this release so far. Wonderful ideas, all of them! The best part of being an illustrator is seeing what other stampers do with my art. So fun!

I was able to get several cards made using the smiling flowers and garden sentiment from Garden of Friendship.

I made stamping extra easy by mounting the two images together on the acrylic block. Having them mounted like this made for quick and EASY stamping! Ink, stamp, ink, stamp, ink, stamp... Placing images and sentiments like this on a single block means there's no need to line up the sentiment each time. Get it in the right spot once, and you're ready to stamp again and again and again!

I think these flowers make very cheery cards, and who doesn't like happy, smiling flowers!?

Here's another card I made, using the exact same image/sentiment combination and placement. On this card, I added glitter to the petals of the daisies. Happy, smiling, SPARKLY daisies! Ooooh la la!!

Glitter & Glue

Thanks for the sweet comments you left on my "something cheery" card this morning! I received a few emails and notes from people wanting to know what kind of glue and glitter I used on the card. Since I still had the card sitting on my desk w/ the lamps set for photos, it was simple enough to just take a couple more photos showing the glue and glitter. I used a ZIG 2 Way Glue pen to apply a thin layer of glue over the image. Keep the areas of glue small, so the glue doesn't dry before you apply the glitter.

For example, on this image I applied glue to the heart, then added glitter. Then I applied glue to the leaf, then added glitter. The flowerpot was done in two sections, and the flower was done two petals at a time, and the center of the flower was done separately as well. You might get away with doing slightly larger areas at once, but I don't like chancing it. Sure, some glitter still brushes off, but I find that true with most all glitter applications.

Here is the tray that I keep my glitter poured into. (The glitter still in the bottle is just my backup reserve.) I use an old stamp storage case that I've altered slightly ... I cut down the side to remove the lid, so it's not flopping around while I'm trying to use the tray. When I'm done, the lid snaps down in place and holds firmly.  I use a small spoon to scoop the glitter onto the card so I can target the area of wet glue. Once glitter is covering the glue, I press down on the glitter lightly with the bottom of the spoon to press the glitter into the glue. Then I tap off the excess glitter back into the tray, apply glue to the next area, and repeat until all of the areas I want "glittered" are sparkly!

By the way, when you go looking for this glitter (which I picked up at Michaels), be sure to look at the size of the individual glitter pieces in the jar, and not just the name on the label. There are actually two different sizes of crystal glitter. There's one that actually LOOKS big and "course" as it says on the jar, and the other looks like a fine glitter, even though it is labeled as a "course" crystal glitter. I use the smaller sized crystals. Personally, I think this jar should be labeled as crystal "fine" glitter. But who am I to correct Martha! *grin*

Hope this is helpful!

A Rainbow of Organized SPARKLES!

I was in the middle of a crafty project and decided to take a few minutes to organize my selection of small Martha Stewart glitter tubes. These tubes are 3/4" wide, and about 2.5" long. I keep them in a small drawer unit next to my desk, which has drawers just deep enough for the glitter tubes to stand on end. Prior to being organized, they were getting a little out of control in the drawer, tipping this way and that way, and shifting around every time I opened and shut the drawer. Out of CONTROL, I tell you!

I guess you could call what I made a divided tray. I used several sheets of medium weight cardstock scored at 1", 3", 5", 6", and 8".  I accordion folded the cardstock along the score lines to create 1" horizontal surfaces divided by 2" vertical walls.

My new drawer tray works like a charm! No more tipping glitter tubes! And there was still room at the back of the drawer for the larger containers of glitter! Dazzling!

Cinnamon Applesauce Ornaments... with a twist!

Last night I decided to make some cinnamon applesauce ornaments. I used to make these as a kid, and they were always fun to do. If you've never made them before, you should, at least once. The recipe is simple ... equal parts cinnamon and applesauce, with a bit of white glue (mix the glue with the applesauce before adding the cinnamon). I add in just a bit of ground cloves and nutmeg too, because I like the extra zip they add to the scent.

Keep extra cinnamon and extra applesauce handy, in case you need to add a bit more of either one during the process. While the recipe is easy, working with the "dough" can be a challenge. If it's too applesaucey, you'll have a hard time picking up the cut ornaments, and if it's too cinnamony it will be very crumbly and hard to roll out. Patience is most certainly required. But the results are fun, and your home will smell soooooo good!

Mix the dough really well with your hands, then roll it out to about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick. Cut out with 2"- 4" cookie cutters. You can use a drinking straw to cut holes in the dough for hanging, or you can wiggle the flat end of a toothpick to create a hole. Just be careful! You can easily split the dough. If that happens, press the crack in the dough together gently. The glue in the dough should keep it from cracking once dry. For drying, you can either let them sit out for a few days, turning often, or you can dry them in a warm oven (200* or less), turning at least once per hour, until they're dry. The results are a rustic and very scented holiday ornament perfect for hanging on the tree, or adding to the top of a special gift. I added a bit of glitter to mine once they were dry, and the effect is perfect.

Google "cinnamon applesauce ornaments" and you'll find all kinds of info online about making them (and probably other recipes, too).

Now for the extra crafty goodness I have to share with you!

I wanted to make a gingerbread shaped cinnamon ornament, but I don't have a gingerbread boy cookie cutter. So, I got to thinking .... I do have a Sizzix die cut in the shape of a gingerbread boy, the perfect size for a cinnamon ornament. Normally, I adhere glitter to die cuts using glue, so I thought I would try adding cinnamon to the die cut shape with glue to see if it worked. Guess what! It did!

I do have some recommendations for you if you try this for yourself. First, since the cinnamon doesn't adhere thickly to the glue, I found that it's best if you either use dark brown chipboard for your shape, OR ink it a dark brown before you add your glue and cinnamon. You'll get a much more realistic looking shape than if you leave the chipboard a pale color. Also, don't forget to ink the edges of the chipboard shape! Cute as can be, and he smells divine! This little guy is decorated with a red (hard to tell it's red) button and two holly leaves. Since he's not as delicate as a real applesauce cinnamon ornament, he'd be perfect worn as a little pin on a scarf or hat. Glue a pin to his backside, and you've got the perfect holiday scented pin!

Painting using Craft/Pigment Ink (Video)

For those who've sent me emails wanting more info how how to paint solid areas using craft/pigment ink pads ... here you go!

This is the first "tutorial" type of video I've ever done (so be kind!) ... hope it gets the job done! Enjoy!

If you're not able to view this video here on my blog, you will find HERE on YouTube.

A Cowgirl on Horseback

I absolutely love that I have the opportunity to work my photography into illustrations for Whipper Snapper. Having my photos turned into rubber stamps that other artists can use to express their creativity is cooler than COOL!

I created this card using simple stamping, sponging and masking. First, I stamped the Cowgirl on Horseback image in Timber Brown StazOn on Whisper White paper from Stampin' Up.

Once the image was stamped, I adhered post-it notes around the image to protect the border, so that I had a nice white edge around the image. I added color around the image using sponge applicators and various colors of Distress Ink from Ranger.

When I was done applying color to the image, I removed the post-it notes to reveal a nice, CRISP white border. I trimmed the image down a bit, to reduce the amount of white border. Once I started putting the card together, the white was a little too stark for what I wanted, so I sponged a little around the edges to break up the stark white edges. I added some machine sewing and assembled the card.

And if you're curious, here is the original photograph I took of a young woman on her horse as the sun was setting. Silhouetting her against the evening sky created a moody photograph that I'm pleased to have in my portfolio!

And the stamp is pretty DANG fun to use, too!

Edited to Add: Wow... there's some serious COLOR in these photos! Those PINK post-it notes really scream PINK!

Crystal Snowflakes

So you want to know how I make the crystal snowflakes, eh? Here you go, in 10 photos!

Punch your shapes! Ink the edges, if desired.

This is just a plain white snowflake. I added some Matte Accents by Ranger for my adhesive, but you can use the liquid glue of your choice, as long as it dries clear. I never apply the glue very evenly, and it seems to work just fine.

Drop the snowflake into your glitter. I'm using Diamond Dust Glitter (search ebay - there are several listed). Gently press the snowflake into the glitter. NOT TOO FIRMLY, or you'll have glitter MASS and it's not all that pretty. A light touch is best.

Remove the snowflake and admire. Oooh, pretty! See the sharp shard on the top? I'd remove that one. It's too wild. Set the snowflake aside to dry.

Now you're ready to take on a BIG shape! Notice the size! And the inked edges! Ooooooooo!

Add adhesive. The adhesive on this flower isn't spread evenly enough yet. Leaving gaps this large will leave gaps in your glitter, causing a glitter faux pas! Spread it out a bit more evenly.

Like with the snowflake, place the shape into the glitter and GENTLY apply pressure. Notice the Blu-Kote stain on my finger. Blu-Kote is an antiseptic spray used to treat wounds on animals. I had to apply some to a couple of the chickens today who have a couple broken tail feathers that the other chickens find way too fascinating to leave alone. Blu-Kote stains a deep violet color, as you can see.

Whoa! Look at all that Blu-Kote! You might be surprised to know that I actually did get more on the chickens than on myself! Really! It'll be on me for a while, I'm sure.

Remove the shape from the glitter, admire the pretty sparkles, set aside to dry.

Finally, make something lovely with your newly created crystal coated shapes!

Have fun!

4x4 Lidless Box

I spent some time putting together this little tutorial on how to make the 4x4 lidless box I used for my be warm drink gift set. I wasn't able to find just the right sized container, so I decided to make my own! Have fun with it!


What you need:
2 - 4"x9" rectangles
2 - Just-shy of 4" squares
4 - 1.5"xJust-shy of 4" rectangles, complimentary color
2 - 1.5"x12" rectangles (some will be trimmed as excess) OPTIONAL
Embellishments, scissors, adhesive, etc.

Score the 4"x9" rectangles at 4" and 8", and at .5" across the bottom.
With your scissors, snip all corners and creases as shown. Exact angles are not important ... but don't get too carried away!

Overlap one of the 1" sections with one of the 4" sections with good adhesive so you have four 4" squares in a row, and a 1" rectangle at one end. I like to use a liquid glue for the gluing process so I have a bit of time for wiggling things into place.

Overlap the last 4" square and the 1" end and adhere with good adhesive.

Shape the box so it's nice and square. Nicely done so far!

Alternate each of the corners over/under so it holds its form (no need to glue at this point, but you can if you'd like).

Adhere one of the just-shy of 4" squares to the bottom, taking care to line up the edges nicely. Again, using a good liquid glue here allows you a bit of wiggle time.

For added stability, adhere the second just-shy of 4" squares to the inside bottom.

Nice and finished looking! Good job!

Shape one edge of all four of your just-shy of 1.5"x4" complimenting rectangles.

Adhere the complimenting rectangle to the inside of your box, on all four sides. It helps to line each side up with the one next to it by looking at the inside of the box while you stick things down.

Embellish as you'd like! I used the 1.5"x12" strips of patterned paper around my box. I did end up trimming off about 7" or 8", but it was just easier to start with two full length 12" strips and trim them down as needed.

ENJOY!

floating bovine

Earlier this week I brainstormed a few ideas of different things that could be done with the balloon in the Bundle of Joy set. Here is one those ideas on paper.

For my idea of the floating bovine I wanted more than one balloon. By using the masking technique, I was able to create a bouquet of balloons rather quickly. And it's a good thing I could create a bunch of balloons...I don't think this cow could float with just one. *grin*

To create this balloon bunch for yourself, first stamp the pink balloon and mask it with a post-it note. Then stamp the dark purple balloon and mask it with another post-it note. Finally, stamp the third balloon. Remove the post-it note masks and draw in some strings. Masking is a great technique for getting a few extra miles out of images, and is one of my favorite things to do!

It's a lovely spring day (Happy First Day of Spring!), and would be a perfect day for some new baby cows to be born. But I doubt we'll be so lucky...dang it.

Hoppy Easter

Here's another card using the layout from the SMDSC02 sketch challenge I posted last night.

The squares on the base of this card are 2.25" square, and the square for the main image is 3" square.

The stamps used on this card are the February Project of the Month images from High Hopes Rubber Stamps. Cute as a button, isn't she!

I stamped the image in black Stazon and painted the bunny with a water brush and Stampin' Up reinkers. The white dots on her cheeks are made with white acrylic paint, placed with a toothpick. There are sparkles on her yellow bow, and on the eggs in the background.

Several people have asked about the kind of paper I use for my painted images. It varies, actually, but here are a few that I use that are readily available:

Acquarello Studio Watercolor Pad (140lb Cold Pressed) by Fabriano
Fabriano Artistico Bright Wight Watercolor Block (140lb Hot Pressed)
Arches Watercolor Blocks (140lb Hot and Cold Pressed)
Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Blocks

I use 140lb paper because I like the weight of the paper. It won't curl or twist with the kind of painting that I do. Hot Pressed papers are the smoothest surface texture, and they're what I use most of the time for stamped images. I like to use Cold Pressed papers for original illustrations/paintings. Cold Pressed papers have a bit more "tooth" to their surface, so it's more difficult to get a good stamped impression on Cold Pressed papers. You can also get Rough paper as well, and as it sounds, it has a very rough surface. I don't recommend Rough if you want to have a good stamped impression, but it's great for loose, traditional watercoloring.

If you're looking for more info on my painting technique, check out my Tips & Tricks page. There's information on using Prismacolor pencils and Gamsol, as well as Watercoloring tips. Hope it's helpful!

Hope you're having a great weekend!
-Anna.

Santa's Sleigh

Today's sketch challenge on SplitCoast is one of my favorites, so of course I had to play along! The image is by Penny Black. The green layer was scalloped using my Fiskars scalloped scissors. The stitching on the white layer is real ... the stitching everywhere else is faux stitching - I dig it. I watercolored the image, and then added Stardust Stickles on Santa's hat and beard for sparkle. I used a fine dusting of Pearlescent Pebble Chalks on the other parts of the image for a little festive shimmer.

I've received emails from people asking how I take my photos, and since a friend and I were just talking briefly about it last night, I thought I'd take a quick photo and show you just what I do. It's certainly NOT fancy, but for quick photos of cards it's fine.

I use a natural light bulb in a desk lamp tilted down so it shines on the face of the card. Sometimes set up sheets of paper to block out the mess on my table, and sometimes I don't even bother with that. This process needs to be quick and easy for me. I don't have a space were I can set up and leave a photo station, and this set up works just fine for me. Easy peasy!

Prismacolor Pencil & Gamsol Tips...

I've been asked many times how I color images, so I thought I would put together a visual guide, along with some thoughts I have on coloring stamped images. The techniques I use most often are watercoloring, and Prismacolor pencil with Gamsol (a technique sometimes referred to as "magic pencil"). This post is specific to Prismacolor pencil with Gamsol. (Click here to read my tips on watercoloring, posted earlier this month.)

Prismacolor pencils and Gamsol (a brand of odorless mineral spirits) is one of my favorite ways to color stamped images. One of my favorite papers for this technique is Pearlized Shimmery White cardstock. When I'm not using Pearlized Shimmery White cardstock, I use Stampin' Up's Whisper White or Very Vanilla cardstock. But I also find it fun to experiment on other types of paper as well. Paper with a bit more "tooth" than Whisper White and Very Vanilla colors a bit differently than smoother papers. While it's possible to use other brands of colored pencil for this technique, Prismacolor artist colored pencils are soft but heavily pigmented, so I've found they work the best for blending.

To blend my colors, I use inexpensive paper stumps, or tortillions. I buy all of my pencils and paper stumps at dickblick.com. Gamsol (or other brands of odorless mineral spirits) can be found at local or online artist supply stores. It typically comes in either a tin can with a pour spout, or in a glass jar, and is primarily used by oil painters. I've found that the best container to use for this technique is a small double-walled plastic jar, similar to a nail polish remover jar. I cut a regular yellow sponge to fit inside the jar, and pour the Gamsol onto the sponge until it is just saturated, but not floating or beneath the surface of the Gamsol.

I stamp my images on my paper with Black Stazon ink. Stazon is an acid free, archival, fast drying solvent-based waterproof ink and can be ordered through Stampin' Up, found in local craft stores, and lots of online stores. (You might also have good success with various other inks as well, such as Memento, Palette, etc.) Then I start adding color to the places color would be the darkest - usually the edges.

I dip my paper stump onto the Gamsol sponge and begin blending the colors in a small circluar motion towards the center of the image, pulling bits of color as I go. You can leave as little, or as much highlight area on an image as you'd like. By simply not adding as much color to the edges, or not pulling as much color towards the center of your image, you'll be able to have a bigger highlight area. (See my two pears card for another example of a highlight area.)

It's always better to start with LESS color and add more as you need it, than to start with too much color. But, another great thing about working with colored pencil is that you will be able to erase a bit of color, creating a highlight spot if you lay down too much color. You'll never be able to erase the color completely, but you can pull off just enough of the pigment to create a lighter colored area. I use white Hi-Polymer Erasers by Pentel for this process (which can be found at local and online craft or office supply stores).

As you color your image, you'll be able to see where you'd like to add darker shades of color in places you want to emphasize color, or create shadows. Always start with your lightest colors and work with your darker colors sparingly once your lighter colors are in place. Gamsol tends to really make colors pop, so it is quite easy to add too much color to an image by using too dark of a color too quickly while you work. But don't be afraid to use color! How you use color gives images life.

I hope you find these tips helpful! I'd love to know if this has helped you, and would love even more to see some of your work while you try out some of these ideas.

The flower stamp used in this project is by Whipper Snapper Designs, designed by me!

Cheers!

Watercoloring Tips...

I've been asked many times how I color images, so I thought I would put together a little visual guide, along with some thoughts I have on coloring stamped images. The techniques I use most often are watercoloring, and Prismacolor pencil with Gamsol (sometimes referred to as "magic pencil"). This post is specific to watercoloring, but I'll do another post all about Prismacolors soon!

Watercoloring is my favorite way to color stamped images. I prefer to watercolor on really good watercolor paper and not ordinary cardstock. I think the end result is rich looking, and I think it's easier to control the water and colors when good watercolor paper is used. I buy watercolor paper tablets at artist supply stores or online at dickblick.com, and cut the pages down to the sizes I want to use on my projects. I also use a good water brush (aka Aquapainter). Stampin' Up sells a great quality brush set (2 per package), but you can also find other brands just as easily which are typically sold individually in various sizes. I prefer the medium size for most card-sized projects. I bought one of my water brushes at an artist supply store in Oregon, and I purchased my other water brushes from dickblick.com.

I stamp my images on the watercolor paper with Black Stazon ink. Stazon is an acid free, archival, fast drying solvent-based waterproof ink and can be ordered through Stampin' Up, found in local craft stores, and lots of online stores. Once the image is stamped, I put a dot of Stampin' Up re-inker color in the lid of my Stampin' UP stamp pad. While I use the lids of my ink pads, you could just as easily use a small plastic watercolor palette, an old CD, or even a plastic lid. But a little ink goes a LONG way, so I use the lids of my ink pads. The drop of ink will remain useable for months and months in the closed ink pad lid. With just a damp water brush (it should not be dripping wet, or dry) I pick color from the lid and begin filling in the stamped image, starting at the place color would be the darkest - usually the edge. Allowing colors to dry completely before adding colors next to one another helps keep the colors from flowing together. But, if you'd like a blended look, add additional colors while the base colors are still damp. I use both techniques, depending on the look I'd like the finished art to have.

It's important when coloring to determine a light source direction and paint your entire image using that light source as the direction light touches your subject. It doesn't matter which direction you choose for your light, as long as you're consistent in your coloring throughout the entire project. In this image, I wanted the light to look as though it were coming through a window to the left of the vase, and fade into the color of the wall as it got closer to the vase. I almost always paint the focus image first, before painting in the background. This helps me determine what colors to use, and where to place saturated color areas on the background once the main image is dry (while always keeping my light source in mind).

My last step is to add darker shades of color to places I want to emphasize shadow (or lack of light - in this example, less light from the window), which also gives a more three dimensional look to the colored piece.

For this colored image I used the following Stampin' Up re-inker colors: Old Olive (stems and leaves); Cool Caribbean, Not Quite Navy, Buckaroo Blue (vase); More Mustard, Really Rust, Close to Cocoa (flowers); So Saffron, More Mustard, Really Rust, Close to Cocoa, Chocolate Chip (background). Flower stamp by Whipper Snapper Designs, designed by me!

The best advice I can give to someone looking to improve watercolor skills is practice. Find examples you like, and figure out what it is about them that makes the image interesting to you. I think you'll find that it's usually light and color and how they're used that makes an image really stand out. And my last bit of advice is don't be afraid to use color! How you use color gives images life.

I hope you find these tips helpful! I'd love to know if this has helped you, and would love even more to see some of your work while you try out some of these ideas.

Prismacolor pencil and Gamsol tips coming soon!

Wild Asparagus and Primas - oh my!

I placed an order the other day from PaperAddict.com and when the box of paper came, it was like Christmas! So many wonderful colors and textures and patterns! This paper by Wild Asparagus was some that I ordered. I love the vintage fabric look to these papers, and the texture of the paper. Inking around the edges creates a warm, aged look that I really like. Another nice thing about this paper is that it's double sided, so it was easy to coordinate all of the papers into one design.

Have you seen these wonderful Prima flowers? I received this flower from a friend (thanks Viv!) and wanted to feature it with this paper. I like how the coppery-gold shimmery ribbon softens the line between the paper and the flower. I added some glass leaf beads to this card as well. They're tied to the birthday tag using the organza ribbon.

As I was making this card, I thought I'd put together a visual aid for those of you who've asked me how I sponge the edges of my cards. (Thanks for the emails, by the way!)

I start with my paper layer cut to size. With a wooden handled sponge dauber, I pick up color off my ink pad (don't over-do it - a little goes a long way). I usually use Walnut ink by Ranger, but most dye inks will work with this technique.

While holding the paper with my left hand (not seen in this photo cause it's holding the camera) I begin to pull ink across my scrap paper onto the paper's edge. Start a good distance from the edge of your paper layer to avoid hard-lined edges from the sponge. Starting at a distance also helps you pull the ink more smoothly. Continue to pull ink onto the paper around all the edges of the paper, until you've got a nice even layer of ink. I usually go around the paper layer two or three times for a really nice even edge.

Because these sponges are so inexpensive compared to SU daubers or other brands, I keep a small drawer just for inky daubers. I use one color with each dauber, and only toss them out when I've worn most of the sponge off of the wooden handle. They take a beating, that's for sure!

Gamsol, and be happy!

Kristi from Livonia, MI asked me today what I use to store my Gamsol in for when I do the Prismacolor/Gamsol technique to color my stamped images.

Some poeple like using "bingo" ink bottles, but I find those to be nothing less than irritating. So, I came up with my own storage container solution.

I use a double-walled plastic jar that I found at the craft store for around .70 cents. I also bought a new yellow sponge (probably found in the same isle as the jar) and cut it to fit inside the jar without being "squished" in the jar. I keep just enough Gamsol in the jar so that when I press the tip of my paper stump into the sponge the Gamsol moistens the tip of the stump just right.

I've found this method to work perfectly! If you're having troulbe with your current storage container, give this a try!

Oodles of Doodles

I love to doodle. If I made it or if it sits near me long enough, it's probably going to be doodled on. I typically add doodled lines around the primary image of cards that I make. I like how the free-form casual lines frame the image, and set it apart from the rest of the supporting design... and honestly, I just love to draw them.

This dog (who I fondly refer to as "Bruce") by Whipper Snapper Designs needed some grass around his toes. So, I doodled it!

Sometimes I take my doodling even farther than just the simple squiggly line around the border of an image. This frog from the recent Stampin' Up! set "Unfrogettable" is so perfect on his own, but I wanted to set him in an environment and create a story through the images. So, I doodled!

The ponds edge and reeds are my own doodles. The perfect little blue bird is an A Muse image, and one of my all-time favorite stamps. How simple, yet so sweet, can one stamp get?

Sometimes I don't include any stamped images at all in my designs -- only doodles. My Watercolor Window card was created using the Tag Punch by Stampin' Up! Once I had the window created, I drew the single flower and vase as though they are sitting on the windowsill.

My friend Ellen and I were exchanging emails earlier today and she brought up my doodling and the recent "doodle phase" that has exploded in papercrafts. I think it's popular because it's a simple way to really personalize your designs. Later I thought to myself, "ooooh! that will be my blog topic for the day! I've got oodles of doodles!"

Holy Featured Stamper, Batman!

I was truly honored (and surprised!) to be a featured blog-topic by Michelle Laycock yesterday! Michelle wrote an entry in her Ink Artist blog called "Create Light and Layers" where she considers the use of an imaginary light source while creating stamped art. Read her post here. 

This Always in Style card was created using the "Pattern of Friendship" set by Stampin' Up! and is one of my cards Michelle uses to illustrate the use of light and layers when stamping.

Thanks Michelle, for such a fantastic review!