Simplifying

As this year draws to a close, I am taking some time to reflect. I am amazed at how quickly this year has passed. I'm thankful for friends I've met, and friends I've been able to draw closer to. I'm filled with excitement for the coming year, particularly with my art. I'm grateful for opportunities that have led me to where I am.

I'm stepping down from my design team duties so that I can refocus and prepare for new things with the new year. Sunshine and Ildi - I am honored to have served as your designer! I will still be following your work! Thank you for all the encouragement and love you've shared on my behalf. You are forever in my heart!

Today I have a project to share with you that I think you'll like.

{click to enlarge}

I had so much fun with this card! I pulled out all kinds of things and just dabbled and played like a little kid with their first fingerpaint set!

I started with a 4 x 5.25 inch piece of Creative Imaginations paper, and applied a layer of Gesso white acrylic primer. I ran the piece through my cuttlebug with the box embossing folder that I had inked with Versamark. I applied Ranger distressed embossing powder to the areas where Versamark had inked. These combined treatments gave the primary large area a very unique texture and opacity. Love this!!

Next, I used my {ippity} stamps to make individual flowers, the sentiment label, and the numbers border down the side. (secret note: where the numbers are started out as a photo print of Gina K's digital papers that I sanded and stamp over - try it!) I stitched it together, punched a coordinating CI paper scrap with my border punch and tucked it behind the numbers. Distressed the sentiment label, added 2 brads, buttons for flower centers with stickles for "eyes", and attached pieces of Cat's Pajamas' ribbon vines for the stems.

CUTE as a BUG! I tell ya, it's even cuter in real life! Ok, now I've got the giggles. Yes, this is one of the projects where I revert to my "old" style just a little. Monday's post will be the full reveal...hope you're intrigued!

Cool Runnings my friends - peace be the journey!
~ky