Last Chance!

I can hardly believe the Occasions Mini Catalog is coming to an end on Monday.  I am going to really
miss it...so many awesome stamp sets!  I have high hopes that some of them will be in the upcoming Fall/Winter catalog.

This card was made using the Essence of Love stamp set, which I didn't think I liked when I first saw it in the book!  Well, after seeing many beautiful cards made with it, I finally broke down and got one for myself!

I really enjoyed making the shaded background on this card.  It is actually easier than it looks!  I just embossed the image in black, and then rubbed ink over the whole piece using sponge daubers.  I started with my lightest color first, and worked my way to the outside edges.  Then I used a paper towel to rub off any excess ink from the embossed areas.  I learned that you have to go in a bit of a swirling motion with the darker shades; but you can just swipe straight across with the lighter ones.  The rest of the card is just a pile of layers, black grosgrain ribbon and some of that fabulous Styled Silver Hodgepodge Hardware...again from the Occasions Mini.  I really like how this came out!  Hope you do too! 

Oh, before I forget, I was actually inspired to do this card by the incredibly talented Michelle Zindorf.  These backgrounds are her trademark, and she whips them out like NOBODY'S BUSINESS!!!  I did not do the whole brayer thing....just kind of made up my own way to make it happen... at least until I get my hands-on instructional class from my dear friend, Karen Barber...who has been trained by Ms Zindorf herself!  Not that Karen needs any training to make amazing cards...She is an expert in her own right, and my favorite stamper on this planet!!!!!!

Have a FANTASTIC Tuesday everyone!  ...and, hey, don't forget to STAMP something!  I promise, it's better than an apple a day....no matter what your doctor tells you! :)

Love,
~C

Comments

[Charmaine Ikach]

1.

THis is just gorgeous!

[mudmaven]

2.

What a beautiful card. I love this set and am always looking for new ways to use it. ~chris

[Kim]

3.

I too am going to miss several sets from the mini, hopefully they make it into the new catty! I really like this card! Great job!

[Michelle Zindorf]

4.

Hi Cindy! I've heard so much about you, I feel I know you, lol. Everything I've been told about you has been wonderful! Stunning card! How about coming to Ohio and bringing your brayer for a get together with me and Karen? I would love to really meet you.
Keep on cranking out those stunning cards now and thanks so much for sharing them with us.

[stampinmommyof4]

5.

this is a beauty!!!! I have tried to do the brayer thing- but it never comes out all that good. I must try the sponge daubers! I better get this set out quick before it goes away : (