Color Your Day

Today we are all about color! There are so many ways for you to add color to your greeting cards (and all of your other paper crafts too.)  Between inks, watercolors, colored pencils and markers. The choices are endless.

Welcome to my journey in the Altenew Educator Class. I am so glad that you stopped by today. We are focusing on using watercolors to add color to some embossed flowers to add that custom bit of color to your cards. We will focus on a technique that I used with different colors that you can apply to so many of your own projects. Then we will give you some ideas on how you can apply them to different designs. I used a watercolor pan set, but you could apply the same ideas for any watercolors, watercolor markers or even watercolor pencils.

Basic Watercolor Technique

Let's get started with the basic technique. There are only a few basic supplies that you probably have in your stash.

Supplies

• Thank You 2022 stamp set (was a gift-not available)
• Fancy Greetings stamp set
• Geometric Elements stamp set
• Acrylic blocks or a stamp positioner
• Watercolor paper
• Cardstock 
• Pan watercolors or any watercolors that you have
• Plastic watercolor palette
• Small detail watercolor brushes
• Water
• Versamark embossing ink
• Embossing bag
• White embossing powder
• Heat gun
• Altenew permanent crisp black ink
• Gold metallic marker
• Gold Stickles 
• Double sided tape
• Foam tape
• Foam Dots
• Washi tape
• Gems

1. Cut pieces of watercolor paper in a size appropriate for your card and the stamp set that you plan to use. 
2. Go over the watercolor paper with the embossing bag.
3. Stamp the stamp aet with the Versamark ink on the watercolor paper.
4. Cover with the white embossing powder.
5. Tap the excess embossing powder off.
6. Heat the embossing powder with the heat gun till all the powder has been completely heated.
7. Let it cool.
8. Choose two or three watercolors for your flowers.
9. Place some watercolor in the palette.
10. Color the flower with a base color.
11. Add some darker color to shadow your flowers.
12. Set flowers aside to dry.
13. You can cut the flowers apart or use the background behind the flowers.
14. You can add a wash to the background. 
15. Add some splatters if desired. 
16. Cut the card base.
17. Cut any layers if you want extra dimension.
18. Add some washi tape before the final layer is on.
19. Use double sided tape to adhere the layers.
20. Use foam tape where you want to add additional dimension.
21. Stamp your sentiment in permanent black ink.
22. Layer cardstock on the sentiment following the same color pattern.
23. Add the sentiment to the card with double sided tape or foam dots.
24. Add any sequins or gems to the card.

Blue And Orange Floral

Top Layer-4 2/8" x 6" 

Second Layer-4.5 " x 6 2/8"

Card Base-4 6/8"x 6 3/4 " base

Blue, orange and green watercolors used.

Navy and light blue cardstock

"Sending Hugs" from Fancy Greetings stamp set.

Gold Metallic Marker on stems

Gold Stickles on tups of stems

Green greenery used behind the flowers.

Light green gems used.

Tips: 

Layer the flowers to create bouquet.

Use blue washi tape around the two top layers.

Use foam dots to layer sentiment.

Purple And Blue Thank You Card

Top Layer-4" x 4.5"

Second Layer-4.5" x 5"

Third Layer-5"x 5 4/8"

Fourth Layer-5 2/4" x5 7/8"

Base-5 5/8" x 6"

Purple colors on the flowers used.

Blue used for wash background.

Light blue and white cardstock used.

Gold metallic markers used for the stems.

Gold Stickles used for the stem tips.

" Thank You" sentiment from Geometric Elements 

Tips

Blue wash used behind flowers.

More Colorful Tips

• Only use a few colors at a time. 
• Use a color wheel to discover coordinating and contrasting colors.
• When stamping on colored cardstock test your colors on a scrap piece first as the ink color may be affected by the cardstock.
• Play with color by using your ink pads to find out what you like.

Want to find the products that I used? They are listed below (compensated affiliate links used at no cost to you). Thank you for your support.

I hope that these projects have inspired you to get out your watercolors or other color media to create some colorful projects. As always, we appreciate your comments, thoughts and ideas. Please take a moment to share your thoughts.

Thank you for your visit today. We hope to see you again soon. Please take a moment to follow us so that you do not miss a thing!

Best Regards, Happy Crafting!

Linda

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 Beyond Basic Backgrounds

Today we are exploring back grounds for greeting cards using stamps and coordinating dies with embossing powders to create a totally different look. Welcome to another community tutorial as I take my journey through the Altenew Educator Class. I have to say that I love the soft look of these greeting cards. 

For this technique you will need a stamp set with the coordinating dies. You will actually create a stencil using the dies for the image that you are using on your background. To create this stencil, you will want to use a heavy white cardstock, at least 90 Lbs. or more. That way, you will be able to use the stencil again. You also will want to make the stencil a bit larger than the actual card base. Overlapping will give you the best results.

Creating The Stencil

Supplies

• White cardstock at least 90 lbs. in weight
• Coordinating die for the stamp you are using
• Low tack tape
• Die cutting machine and plates

1. Cut the piece of cardstock slightly bigger than the card base you will be using
2. Use the die on the paper and make multiple cuts to create a pattern non your stencil
3. Make sure to overlap some die cuts off the edge on your pattern

Pink Flower Card

I really like the softness of this card. It could be used in so many ways. It could be a Mother's Day card, a wedding card or even a baby card. It also works as a birthday card. All you have to do is change the

sentiment. You could use a single color for your images or use more than one color to add more dimension and interest.

Supplies

• White Card Base
• Frosty Pink Crisp Dye Ink
• Pink Pearl Crisp Dye Ink
• Firefly Crisp Dye Ink
• Altenew Fancy Greeting Stamp Set
• Altenew Painted Flower Stamp Set
• Altenew Painted Flower Die Set
• White Embossing Powder
• Versamark Ink
• Heat gun
• Embossing Bag
• Acrylic Block
• Small Blending Brushes

1. Cut the card base to the size needed for your card.
2. Use a score board and a bone folder to create the crease
3. Fold and then go over the crease with the bone folder
4. Use the embossing bag over the entire card front
5. Place the stencil over the card front and secure with low tack tape. Make sure to tape down all the edges including those that have gone over the side of the stencil. 
6. Use the blending brushes to add color to the die cuts on your stencils. If you are using multiple colors, stay in the same color family for the best results. Apply the lightest color first. , then the darker color. Then reapply the lightest color to get the best blend. 
7. Remove the stencil and set it aside. Let the ink dry
8. Place a piece of scrap paper larger than your card front behind it to prevent any embossing powder getting on the inside of your card.
9. Place your coordinating stamp on the acrylic block. Using a block with guidelines makes the process easier
10. Use the embossing bag over the entire card to p[revent any stray flakes of embossing powder to spoil your design.
11. Ink up your stamp with the Versa mark ink Make sure that you get enough ink on the stamp
12. Stamp two of the images with the ink
13. Apply the white embossing powder and heat it with your heat gun
14. Keep embossing two images at a time till all of the images are embossed
15. Set aside to dry for a few minutes
16. Create your sentiment. For this card I created a sentiment that was embossed to continue the design.

Blue Thank You Card

Flowers can be used for masculine and feminine cards as well. I would have no problem sending this card to a guy. I love this color. It is one of the new colors in the Altenew It is called Alpine Aster Fresh Dye Ink. In this case, I followed the same process. The only difference is that I used a single-color ink. 

Supplies

White Card Base

Blue Cardstock

Blue Metallic Paper

Alpine Aster Fresh Die Ink

Altenew Painted Flower Stamp Set

Altenew Painted Flower Die Set

Sentiment From Geometric Stamp Set

White Embossing Powder

Embossing Bag

                                                                           Heat Gun

                                                                           Fabric Washi Tape

                                                                           Double Sided Tape/Foam Tape

1. Cut the card base to the size needed. This base was 4.5 inches by 5.5 inches
2. The darker blue piece was cut 1/4 inch less than the base
3. The metallic sheet was cut at 4 1/4 by 4 11/12inches
4. The design piece was cut at 
5. 3 3/4 and 4 1/4 inches
6. Follow the same procedure as above in the pink card to emboss the deign piece
7. Apply the fabric washi tape the deign piece. Wrap it around the back and make sure that it is secure.
8. Stamp the sentiment. For this card, I used the same ink as my design. Add the sentiment to the card
9. Using double sided tape, tape the dark blue piece and the metallic piece to the card
10. Using foam tape apply the design piece to the top of the base
11. Apply gems to the card

So, there are two ways to use this lovely embossing technique on your next project. Think about using this technique to create a tag, a belly band or on a scrapbook page too. 

 Thank you for stopping by! We appreciate you and thank you for your time.

We hope that you have been inspired to give it a go. We would love to hear your thoughts, ideas and comments as always. 

Till next time. Happy Crafting!

Linda

Want to find the products that I used? They are listed below (Compensated affiliate links used at no cost to you). Thank you for your support. I was not paid to do this post. All products were purchased by me. These are the products I use and enjoy. Click on the icons to view them.

                          Beautiful Detail

Beautiful Detail was a class in my Altenew Academy Level 2 course. If you have been following along with me, each class brings me closer to being an accredited instructor. My goal was to 

be able to share all the things that I have been learning with the community both here and on Facebook. 

This class helped me to focus on the intimate detail of each stamped image. This technique takes you beyond just stamping layered images. It helps you add more detail in your own way to create a one-of-a-kind project that showcases your art.

For this project, I focused on using both crisp dye inks and colored pencils. There are so many ways to achieve this look. You could also use alcohol markers or pens. You might try watercolor pens as well. As you are considering the media that you want to use, you will want to also consider the paper as well. Depending on what you decide to use to give the extra detail to your project, make sure to use the right paper. Mixed media paper is always a good option. If you are using cardstock, Use 90Lb or higher. 

If you are using colored pencils, you will want to have sharp points to get the most detail.Gamsol will help you blend some of the pencil color to give a soft look to your images. Then you can add fine lines and details.

The Flower Technique

Each of the detail is added to each flower separately. You inly use two colors in the same family, The base flower is stamped in the lighter color. Then the second color is used in the detail as well as the outline color. Barker colored pencils or markers are used to add details.

Another option is to do the images in shades of greys. This gives a different look to the design. A final option gives the images color, and the leaves are done in grey.

Orange And Yellow Lovelies

These images are from the Beautiful Day Stamp Set from Altenew. As with the rest of my projects from this class, I used the base stamp as well as the second layered stamp and the outline stamp. Then I used the appropriate colored pencils to fill in the details.

Supplies

• Beautiful Day flower and leaf stamp
• Beautiful Day sentiments
• Mango Smoothie Crisp Dye Ink
• Snapdragon Crisp Dye Ink
• Firefly Crisp Dye Ink
• Forest Glades Crisp Dye Ink
• Gold dye ink
• Colored Pencils in darker orange tints
• Gamsol
• 110 Lb white cardstock
• Black cardstock
• Brown cardstock
• Lattice embossing folder
• Purple gems
• Double sided tape
• Foam tape
• Foam Dots
• Misti Stamping tool
• Bone folder
• Foam tape
• Foam dots
• Golden Strokes washi tape

1. Stamp the flowers with the MISTI stamp tool. Use the lighter color for the base of the flower. Then the darker color for the detail and the outline stamp. Allow to dry.
2. Add the detail to the flowers with the colored pencils or markers. Set aside to dry. Use gamsol to blend. Then add additional details.
3. Stamp the leaves the same way. Add details to the leaves and set aside.
4. Cut the white card stock with a paper trimmer. Use a score board to make the fold. Use a bone folder to complete a strong crease in the card.
5. Cut the black cardstock to measure. 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches and set aside.
6. Cut the brown paper to 4inches by 6 inches
7. Emboss the brown paper with the lattice embossing folder
8. Mount the brown embossed paper onto the black cardstock piece
9. On the left side adhere the Golden Strokes washi tape straight over both the black and brown paper pieces
10. Using foam dots, adhere the flowers onto the double brown and black pieces.
11. Use glue to adhere the leaves under the flowers
12. Ahere a gem to the center of the flower. 
13. Glue additional gems along the center of the washi tape
14. Stamp the sentiment with gold ink on white cardstock
15. Layer the sentiment on gold glitter paper and then on black paper with double sided tape
16. Adhere the sentiment to the card
17. Adhere the card front to the base using foam tape. Make sure to include a strip of foam tape in the center of the card front so that it does not sag.

Striking Blue Card

This card was designed to feature the flower images as the central feature of the card. Blues , blacks and greens are featured.

                                                                        Supplies                                                    

• Fresh Bloom Stamp Set
• Beautiful Day sentiments
• Ocean Wave Crisp Dye Ink
• Teal Cove Crisp Die Ink
• Firefy Crisp Dye Ink
• Forest Glades Crisp Dye Ink
• Black Crisp Ink
• Blue colored pencils
• Gamsol
• White cardstock-110Lb
• Black cardstock
• Blue cardstock
• Misti stamping tool
• Bone folder
• Black stripped ribbon
• Double sided tape
• Foam tape
• Foam dots

1. Stamp the flowers with the MISTI stamp tool. Use the lighter color for the base of the flower. Then the darker color for the detail and the outline stamp. Allow to dry.
2. Add the detail to the flowers with the colored pencils or markers. Set aside to dry. Use gamsol to blend. Then add additional details.
3. Stamp the leaves the same way. Add details to the leaves and set aside.
4. Make a card base that measures 5inch by 7 inches. Make sure to create a crisp fold in the card with the bone folder.
5. Cut the black pieces of cardstock with a paper trimmer. Cut one piece @ 4.5 inches by 6 inches. Cut a second piece at 4.5 inches by 1.5 inches
6. Adhere the stripped ribbon vertically on the black cardstock with double sided tape
7. Adhere additional black stripped cardstock on the smaller piece vertically with double sided tape.
8. Use the foam dots to adhere the flowers to the black cardstock. 
9. Use PVA glue to adhere the leaves to the black cardstock under the flowers.
10. Stamp the sentiment in black ink with the MISTI tool
11. Mount the sentiment on a piece of blue cardstock with double sided tape
12. Mount that on a piece of black cardstock with double sided tape.
13. Mount the sentiment piece with a piece of foam tape
14. Add blue gems to create design

Project Tips

• Black can always be used for details
• Use stamp sets with less details and add your own
• Stick with warm or cool colors to get better results
• Practice adding details and you will improve over time

We hope that you will give this idea a try. As always, we look forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas on this project. Feel free to leave a comment, share an idea or ask a question.

We have also included some products that we used to complete these designs. We may earn a commission on sales of any of these products at no additional cost to you. We appreciate your support.

Till next time, Happy Crafting!

Linda

 Feminine Card Collection

Level 1 Final Project

I am continuing my journey in the Altenew Educator course with this collection of cards on the fminine side. I am sharing my collection today in hopes that you really look at the stamps and die cuts that you have and create something from your heart to share with another.

The Stamp/Stencil Set For This Project

The stamp set that I used is part of a collection set from Altenew called the Folk Flowers Stencil and Die Bundle. The actual flower and leaf images are created with a layered stencil set. The stencil set is marked with numbers 1-3. That way you will always know to use the right one in each step of your project.

The stamp set included in the bundle gives detail to the leaves and flowers. There are also sentiment stamps included. A die is part of the package that allows you to cut the flowers and leaves very quickly and easily. 

Tips For Using Layered Stencils

1. Make sure to use a low tack tape to tape your stencil to the paper as well as to the workspace. You can also use pixie spray
2. Follow the direction of the stencil. You will see the number of the stencil, so that is your orientation.
3. Take the extra time to line up the stencil
4. Use enough ink to get good color
5. Use brushes or ink blending tool to get the best results.
6. Give the design time to dry

The Inks Used For The Collection

For this collection, I used a lot of my favorite inks to give color to the flowers. These are Altenew Crisp Dye inks which work very well for the layered stencils in my cards.

The colors that I used were:

• Galactic Stream Crisp Dye Ink
• Maple Yellow Crisp Dye Ink
• Snapdragon Crisp Dye Ink
• Just Green Crisp Dye Ink
• Firefly Crisp Dye Ink
• Moss Crisp Dye Ink

Card #1-Framed Flowers

Card Base

Card base measures 6"by 6"

Window Opening is 4" by 4"

Inside window piece is 6" by 6 "

I had this window card in my stash, but you could easily create a window of any size with the right die cut into the front of the card.

1.  Using the layered stencils in the correct order, I stenciled all of the page. Set it aside to dry.
2. Once it was dry, I used the dot stamp and stamped random dots on the image. 
3. Used some Stickles on the dots to add some glitter to the project
4. I stenciled some extra images to use as embellishments.
5. Stamped the detail stamp onto the image and added some 
6. I added the window panel to the inside of the frame using double sided tape.
7. Used the charming die to cut and layer the sentiment on the frame of the card.
8. I added the embellishment flowers on three of the corners. The leaves were added with double sided tape and the flowers were added with foam dots to give them dimension.
9. I glued some sequins around the flowers and added some Neuvo drops in the sequins for color.

Card # 2-Layered Bouquet

Card Base

The card base measures 6" by 6"

Layer 1 measures 5 7/8 by 5 7/8

Layer 2 measures 5 1/2 by 5 1/2

Layer 3 measures 5" by 5"

Diamond measures 2 1/2 by 2 1/2

This was a fun card to make because it is so colorful and fun. I added the Altenew Gold Pin Stripped washi tape for some extra color and dimension to the card.

1. I used the layered stencils to create the flowers for the card bouquet.
2. After they were dry and die cut, I added some Stickles accents to the flowers and set them adise to dry 
3. Once cut, I added layers 1-2 on on the base with double sided tape.
4. I added the washi tape to layer three and then layered that on top of layer two wirh the double side tape.
5. I used an embossing folder on plain green cardstock 
6. I took some gold glitter glue and spread it on the cardstock. Set it aside to dry
7. While that was drying, I arranged the flowers on layer three using foam dots to give the bouquet dimension.
8. I die cut the square from the glittered cardstock. I turned it so that it was a diamond. 
9. 'I I stamped the hello sentiment and glued it onto the square.
10. The diamond was applied to the card with double sided tape. 
11. Added gold \sequins and Neuvo drops to finish the card.

Card #3-Circle Gatefold

Card Base                                                

The base measures 5" by 7"

The circle is 4 1/4" diameter

Inside circle is 3 1/2: diameter

Gatefold rectangle piece is 1 1/2 by 4 1/2

I wanted to use the collection stencil images in a totally different way and I came up with this idea/

1. Take the green cardstock measuring 7" long and score it at 2 " on each side
2. On the right side of the base, cut the scored piece off with a paper trimmer.
3. Cut the larger circle with a circle die and a smaller circle with printed cardstock. 
4. Adhere these two pieces together with double sided tape. 
5. Adhere the rectangular printed cardstock to the gatefold left side piece with double sided tape.
6. Score the circular piece at 1" and fold crisply with a bone folder
7. Adhere the folded piece to the back of the back of the card with glue or double-sided tape. You want to make sure that the circle is placed evenly centered so that there is equal distance on both the top and the bottom. 
8. Again, I used the layered stencil to create the leaf and flower images. These were adhered to both sides of the cards.
9. Following my other design, I glued gold sequins and added the Neuvo drops for extra dimension.
10. I had a small script die cut that I cut and layered to add as a sentiment.

Card # 4-The Z Fold Lace Card                                                           

Card Base

The card base measures 5 1/2" by 8 1/2"

The circular pieces are 3 1/2 " in diameter

Smaller circle is 3 " in diameter

White rectangle is 1 1/2" by 5 1/2"

Green rectangle is 1 1/4" by 5 1/2"

The Z fold card gives you a chance to design something special both on the inside and the outside of the card. The trick to this design to make sure that the die cut on the front matches the die cut on the inside. So, when the card is folded for mailing, all you will see is the outside design. you could use ant type of nested die cuts that you may have.

1. Die cut the circular pieces. Two of the larger and two of the smaller.
2. Score the base of the card at 2 1/4 ", and 4 1/4 "
3. Make a Z pattern by folding the first fold up and the second as you would normally fold a base card with a side opening. When you look at the top of the card, you should see a Z pattern.
4. Use a bone folder to make the edges crisp
5. I used Fancy edge die on the left side of the top panel.  You can leave it plain, but I thought that the lacy edging added a bit of interest to the design.
6. Attach the panels of the top piece with double sided tape,
7. Attach both the smaller and larger pieces of the die together with double sided tape. 
8. Measure and attach the inside circular die piece halfway in the center of the inside of the card base.
9. Attach the two pieces of the top circular die together.
10. Look carefully where the edges of the inside die and the outside die match each other. 
11. Place adhesive halfway on the back of the top circular piece. 
12. Once you have lined them up, adhere the left side to the front panel.
13. I used pieces from another card that I had stenciled to add to the front circular piece. I used foam dots to give more dimension. Then I used a rose gold Stickles glitter glue to add some embellishment.

Card 5 Blue Vellum Card

Card Base

Base measures 4 1/2" by 113/4"

Diamond measures 2 3/4 "

Smaller diamond is 2 1/2"

Smallest diamond is 2 "

This card uses similar ideas from the other cards, except that I used vellum instead of cardstock for the card base. There is a trick to get the vellum to stand up as a card would. You add weight with die cuts to the exact same space on each side of the card. 

1. Cut the vellum to size for the base.
2. Place half of the vellum in the embossing folder of your choice.
3. Embellish the vellum following the manufacturer's directions.
4. Use the same of another style of embossing folder to emboss some medium green cardstock
5. Score the vellum at the half mark so that the card opening is at the bottom. 
6. Trim any areas that may have left a mark from the embossing folder
7. Cut 4 of the largest diamonds in white cardstock. These are actually square nesting dies that are turned to resemble a diamond shape.
8. Use the medium green cardstock and spread some gold glitter glue across the embossed design. Let that dry.
9. Using the layered stencils create the flowers and leaves for the front of the card. Add a little rose glitter glue to the top of the flower design. Set it aside to dry.
10. Take the first diamond and apply it with double sided tape to the center of the inside of the card. This will be for your inner sentiment. 
11. Now turn the card over to the back. Take the second diamond. Line it up to the diamond in the inside of the card, visible from the inside of the card. Adhere it with double sided tape so that both shapes are matching.
12. Turn the card back to the front of the card. 
13. Take the glitter glue paper that is now dry and die cut it to a 2 1/2" size.
14. Adhere it to the largest front diamond
15. Die cut the sentiment with 2-three layers adhered together. 
16. Adhere the sentiment to the smallest diamond shape
17. Adhere the sentiment as the third diamond layer.
18. Line up the diamond layer to match the layer on the inside of the card.
19. Adhere it with double sided tape.
20. Arrange the leaves and flower shapes and adhere them to the front of the car

Bonus Card

This was another card that I created the same way as the blue one. I just used different colors as well as a different pattern for the flowers. 

I simplified this design a little because I wanted more of the embossing design to show through

I enjoyed creating the vellum cards as it gave me the opportunity to use and create some different papers. 

And I enjoyed getting out some of my embossing folders. It was fun to layer and design using the vellum.

Final Design Packaging

Like my masculine project, I wanted to create some packaging that made this collection a gift to be given. I used a box from a lasagna meal as my recycling part.

Again, I did stencil a lot of leaves and flowers for my collection. The container itself was covered with panels of cardstock that matched the colors of the cards. I also used the Gold Pin Stripped washi tape around the side of the container as I used in the second card. 

The flowers and leaves were adhered using foam dots. 

I added the same embellishments (gold sequins, glitter glue and Nuvo drops) as I had added in the card designs. 

Then I created a hang tag that can be used as the gift tag for the package.

I hope that you enjoyed this tutorial. It is packed with ideas that I hope will help you create something new for those that you love.

I certainly appreciate your time. it means a lot to me that you are following my Altenew Educator journey as I stake each step forward.

I have included some products that I used in this collection that may interest you. Though I may earn commissions on any sales, it is at no additional cost to you. We use these earnings to enhance this community.

If you have any questions, comments or thoughts, please leave them at the bottom of this post. We always love hearing from you.

Until next time, Happy Crafting!

Linda

Want to find the products I used? I have listed them below. (Compensated affiliate links used at no cost to you) Thank you for your support! All products were personally purchased Click on the icons below each product picture to go to a favorite store.

 Masculine Cards

Level One Challenge 

Male greeting cards with a beach theme

It has been quite a journey getting to the end of the first part of my level one classes with my Educator Program from Altenew. My goal has been and continues to be to become a certified educator. With that in mind, I am presenting my collection of masculine cards. 

Because I live in Florida and love the beach, my collection focuses on beach blue colors. Each card is a bit different but they all use the same basic colors both in the inks as well as the cardstock itself. Each of the cards has special touches from several of the classes I hope that you enjoy my collection and perhaps find a bit of inspiration in them.

The Inks

Let's start with the inks that I used. There are only three inks that I used for this set of cards. They are Altenew crisp dye inks which I have found are the best inks to use for these types of designs. The colors that I used are Ocean Waves, Sea Breeze, and Teal Cove.

The Inspiration

I had a lot of inspiration from all of the classes that I took. The classes that inspired me for this collection include:

• Boutique Cards
• Let It Shine
• Quick And Simple Cards
• Ink Blending technique

Tools Used For This Project

There are a few tools that I used to create my card collection. More than likely you have something similar in the craft space that you could use.

• Gemini die-cut machine
• Cricut paper trimmer
• Misti stamping platform
• Envelope board
• Scoreboard
• Bone folder
• Scissors
• Ruler

Card Number One-By The Sea

The inspiration for this card comes from the beach and a piece that I colored with colored pencils. I loved using the soft hues of the cardstock that reminded me of the ocean, I know there are men in our family who would enjoy this card for sure.

The dimensions for this card are:

Base-4 1/2" by 5 "

Next level- 4" by 4 1/2 "

Third level-3 5/8" by 4 1/4"

Embossed level-31/2" by 4"

1. Cut the large layer of light cardstock and adhere it to the base of the card with double-sided tape or a tape runner.
2. Cut the next layer for the embossed piece
3. Place the cardstock in the embossing folder and run it through the die cut/embossing folder machine following the manufacturer's directions,
4.  Give additional definition to the embossed piece with the Teal Cove ink carefully rubbed over the design with an ink applicator or brush.
5. Color the coloring piece with colored pencils. 
6. Use some glitter glue to touch parts of the sand and the starfish.Let it dry.
7. Attach the colored piece to the embossed section with double-sided tape or a tape runner.
8. Before the embossed piece was added, a piece of gold ribbon was added. I used double-sided tape to adhere to the ribbon. 
9. The embossed piece has then adhered to the card base using foam tape.
10. The sentiment was inked with the Label Love Stamp Set. It is 1" wide and 3" long. Allow it to dry
11. Cut the sentiment layer.
12. Glue the sentiment to the sentiment layer.
13.  One blue gem was added to the sentiment tag with tacky glue.

Tips

•  You can use any colored pencil piece. Make sure that it is printed on cardstock of about 60 lbs.
• You can watercolor if you use watercolor paper for the image
• You can use alcohol markers on cardstock for the image.
• Cut the embossed layer with scissors rather than a paper trimmer of you need to trim at all.

Card Number Two-Smile

This card uses the same main colors with the addition of alcohol markers to color the decorative piece. A scoreboard was used to create the folds of this gatefold card. 

Card Dimensions include:

The base card measures  5 1/2" by 8 1/2 "

The front panels are blue: 5" by 2 " wide

Stenciled panels:4 7/8" long by 1 1/2" wide

Decorative front piece:

These were die cut with nested dies. 

Base piece: 2 6/8 " by 2 6/8"

Layer: 2" by 2"

Decor Base: 1 1/2" by 1 6/8"

Layer: 1 6/8" by 1 2/4 "

Decor piece: 1 1/4 "by 1 1/2"

Connect piece: 3/4" by 1 "

1. Create the stencil image. Use a piece of white cardstock. 
2. Lay it on your work surface. 
3. Place the stencil on top of the card
4. Attach the stencil with low tack tape, to the cardstock and work surface. (you can also use Pixie spray.
5. Use a stencil brush or an ink applicator to spread the ink over the stencil. Keep applying ink until you have the shade of the color desired. I used Ocean waves for my stencil. Let the stencil piece dry.
6. Cut all the card pieces with a paper trimmer
7. With a scoreboard, of 2 3/8" on each side. Use a bone folder to make the folds crisp.
8. Cut the die-cut pieces following the manufacturer's directions for your die-cut machine.
9. Stamp the featured decor piece
10. Color the piece with alcohol markers. Allow the piece to dry.
11. Cut the layers for the featured piece. 
12. Use double-sided tape or a tape runner to put the decor piece as well as the layered pieces on the panels. Remember the decor piece and the square only gets partial taping so that it hangs over the other panel. It gets taped 1 1/2" centered to the center of the left side of the card.
13. Both the decor piece as well as the sentiment are from the Altenew Geometric Elements
14. Add the tiny piece to the right side of the card centering it on the featured piece. Leave about an inch over the edge of the card. This will tuck into the back of the featured piece and keep the card closed.

Tips

• Make sure to make crisp folds on the front flaps so that they lay correctly.
• Try to place the stenciled layers evenly on both sides.

Card Three-Thank You Times 4

My third card uses the same decorative element as the second card. The only difference is that I used 4 decorative elements. The colors have three layers to each decor piece. The colors of the layers are deeper blue, white, and black. Each piece is mounted with rectangular foam pieces.as is the sentiment in the center. 

   The card measurements are:

    Base- 5 " by 5 3/4

    Layer 1-4 1/2" by5 1/2"

    Layer 2- 41/4 by 5 1/4"

    Greeting base:1 " by 3 3/8"

    Second layer-7/8" by 3 1/8"

    Sentiment Layer:4/8" by 2 3/4"

    Decor Pieces: 

    Base: 1 3/4" by 2"

    First layer: 1 1/2" by 1 7/8"

    Second layer: 1 3/8" by 1 3/4"

    Decor piece: 1 1/8" by 1 6/8"

    This is an easy card to create.

1. Stamp the decor pieces 4 times. Set aside to dry. Stamp and cut one extra piece as a template.
2. Color the decor pieces with the alcohol markers.Set them aside to dry,
3. Use the template and a ruler to cut the layers,
4. Attach the layers of the decor pieces with double-sided tape.
5. Stamp the sentiment.
6. Cut the layers and attach them to the sentiment.
7. Attach the first and second layers to the card base with double-sided tape.
8. Lay all the decor pieces on the card base and the sentiment on the card till they are evenly placed. 
9. Once you are satisfied with the placement, attach the features to the cards with the foam pieces

Tips

• Fussy cut the layered pieces behind the shape as evenly as possible with detailed scissors.

Card 4-Way To Go

My encouragement card uses all of the colors of the beach. The sentiment is the focus of this card which creates a masculine soft tone to the other colors used.

The three sentiments used are from the Altenew Way To Go Die Set. The top and bottom pieces are cut from an embossing folder, You could use any embossing folder that you have. 

I also used the inks in my palette to create the ink blended look.

I added sequins and gems to match to give a little more dimension.

Card Measurements

Base: 6" by 6 1/2"

First layer: 5 1/2" by 6 "

Second layer: 5" by 5 3/4"

Embossed layer: 1 1/2" by 4 1/4"

1. Cut the layers for the card base and adhere them with double-sided tape or a tape runner
2. Emboss the cardstock in the embossing folder of your choice
3. Work the ink in with an ink brush or applicator
4. Let the ink dry
5. Cut the embossed pieces with a paper trimmer to fit the card
6. Die Cut the three pieces of the sentiment. Make three pieces of the small sentiment for both of the dies. There are two pieces for the main die cut. Follow your machine recommendations for making the sandwich to cut your dies. Use two different colors for the main die,
7. Glue the small layers together, Make sure that they are lined up correctly. Let them dry
8. Attach glue to the top piece of the main die and attach it to the base piece. Let that dry.
9. Glue or use double-sided tape to attach the small sentiments to the embossed pieces, Use a ruler or the lines on the embossing to line up the sentiments.
10. Glue tacky glue to attach sequins and gems to the card as desired.
11. Line up all the pieces o the card base. 
12. Use double-sided tape or a tape runner to attach the embossed pieces.
13. Line up the main sentiment.
14. Use pieces of foam dots to attach it to the card base

Tips

• Use a ruler to line up the pieces so that they are as even as possible.
• Cover the main doe piece completely with foam dot pieces so that it lays evenly,

Card 5 Simply Awesome

This is a simple card that uses color and embossing to create a simple masculine card. This was a card base that I had but did not like the design on the bottom of the card. So, I recycled the base by cutting half of the front and reforming the base.

The colors are the same as the rest of the collection, The brown colors and the bit of gold ribbon recall the beach sand colors. You could use just about any embossing folder you would like. I liked this embossing folder as it reminds me of the waves in the ocean.

Card Measurements

    Card base: 5" by 7"

    Large blue piece: 5" by 7"

    Light blue top piece: 2 3/4" by 7"

    Embossed piece: 2 1.2" by 7"

    The sentiment piece was a tag that I had. I used the sentiment from the Altenew Label Love stamp set.

1. Cut half of the card base front. with a paper trimmer.
2. Cut a 5" by 7" piece in the color desired. I used a blue from the palette of my collection.
3. Attach it to the back of the card front piece with double-sided tape or a tape runner.
4. Emboss the piece with an embossing folder.
5. Add definition to the piece using brushes or an ink applicator. to define the design. I used Altenew Teal Cove and Ocean Waves dye ink. Let it dry.
6. Cut and attach the lighter color piece to the top of the front of the card base with double-sided tape or a tape runner.
7. Attach the ribbon to the embossed piece using thin double-sided tape
8. Attach the embossed piece to the top of the front of the card base.
9. Attach the sentiment to the tag.
10. Add the tag to the card front.

Tips

• Any embossing folder and combination of colors can be used to create this card. Try different combinations of colors and folders to create variations
• You can use a 5" by 7" card. Cut a 5" by 7" piece of cardstock and adhere it to the base of the card with double-sided tape or a tape runner. Then follow the directions to complete the card.

Bonus Card-Birthday Stars

This is another simple masculine card that was easy to create. I had a frame base in my stash that I wanted to use, but you could easily cut a window with any sized large nested die that you would want to use. You could even use another shape to create a window. Once again, I used an embossing folder and some ink to create a pattern for my window. I added some simple embellishments and a card tag with a sentiment. The sentiment was from the Altenew Label Love stamp set. I included this card because you could look at your stash an get creating simple masculine window cards.

Card Measurements

Base: 6" by 6"

Window opening:4" by 4"

Embossed piece: 5 3/4 by 6"

1. Emboss the piece of cardstock measuring 5 3/4 " by 6"
2. Use the ink( Teal Cove) with an applicator or brush to apply over the design to highlight the raised pieces. Allow the piece to dry.
3. Attach the embellishments on the top and bottom with tacky glue. Allow it to dry
4. Stamp the sentiment and allow it to dry,
5. Attach the sentiment to the tag with glue or double-sided tape.
6. Attach that to the tag on the card front.

Tips

• Make sure to line up the embossed piece as evenly as possible. 
• Line up the embellishment pieces evenly as well
• Any embellishment pieces can be used
• Use a strong tacky glue to attach the embellishments

The Envelopes

I had some envelopes made already, but did have to make a few more, For these envelopes, I used the envelope embossing board. It is a must-have tool for all cardmakers, especially if you are making custom-sized cards. 

Tips

• For most cards, you will need a 12" by 12" piece of cardstock
• Use good strong cardstock
• Make sure to use a bone folder to make crisp folds on the flaps.
• Use glue or thin double-sided tape to attach the flaps together.

The Gift Box

My cards are held in the box I created from a product that came from Amazon. I wanted to create a box that could be used again, I wanted something that would be enjoyed for some time. Not only could this bix be used for cards but for other storage too.

Sticking with my theme, I created a box with wooden look cardstock. I used a good strong double-sided cardstock so that the paper would not rip.

Step One-Measuring the Box

I first measured all the front, back, and bottom sections of the box. The mail piece was 7 1/4" by 9 "

Then to wrap around the side I cut two pieces. One was 1 3/4 by 9". The other was 1 3/4" by 12 " Make sure that whatever paper you are using, the pattern faces the same way on all sides when you go to cut it. 

Step 2-Adhering The Paper

I used double-sided tape rolls as I did not want any glue bumps on my paper First I attached the side pieces. The shorter piece was put on first, extending over the bottom of the box. The longer piece was put on next. Starting from the opposite side, and running all the way to the edge of the other side. This made a seamless bottom. 

Now the front piece was added front to back. still using the double-sided tape

Step 3-Adding The Decor

A ribbon was added to cover any seams on the side that showed. A ribbon was also added around the top of the box around the edge. I used tacky glue for the side ribbon and thin double-sided tape rolls on the top.

Using very strong tacky tape, A row of seashells was added all around the top edge of the box.

Then a design was added to the front using the same kind of shells.

Here is the complete collection

General Tips For This Collection

• Make sure that the blade of your paper trimmer is sharp so that the edges of your paper cuts are nice and even.
• Use the bone folder on the edges of any folds to get good crisp edges
• When using glitter glue, make sure to allow it to dry all day or overnight

That is the complete collection for this challenge. I hope that one or more of these cards have inspired you to create something special for the guys in your life. 

Want to find the products I used? I have listed them below. (Compensated affiliate links used at no cost to you) Thank you for your support! All products were personally purchased Click on the icons below each product picture to go to a favorite store.

 

Thank you for taking the time to review this tutorial. I certainly appreciate your participation and encouragement in my journey to become an Altenew Educator.

Till the next time,

Happy Crafting!

Linda

                                                                         

 Free Christmas Graphics Bundle

https://www.creativefabrica.com/product/merry-christmas-graphics-bundle/ref/61083/

I recently came across this free bundle and wanted to share it with all of my craft friends. It is a complete bundle of 500 Christmas graphics totally free. These are great to use with your Cricut, Silhouette and Scan and cut. I loaded mine. You will want to check this one out. Click on the link below the picture to get yours! 

Happy Crafting!

Linda

 Seasonal Scene Building

Create something different with your stamps and dies

 

Have you ever considered creating scenes with the stamps and dies that you have in your stash? Today we are exploring some different ideas to use the stamps and dies that you have to create something totally different.

As I move forward with the Altenew Educator Program, this concept was an idea that I had not considered in the past. But one that I will be using in the future.

Some stamp and die sets by subject matter are prefect for scene building. If you think of animals and garden stamps to create a scene, you will find some new inspiration for scene building greeting cards.

Another thing that I like about creating scenes is that they give you the opportunity to create cards that would be appropriate for the guys too.

For my cards, I used the Altenew Succulent set to create a scene that reminded me of the plants in my Florida room. This scene was so easy to create and uses different techniques to build a card with dimension and lots of color. In this case, I used alcohol markers to color my plants. You will want to use a pigment ink with alcohol markers, otherwise, you will get the outline running all over the place. You will have a mess on your hands. 

You could also use colored pencils to color the images as well as alcohol markers. Stay in the same color family for the best results.

I used a set of nesting dies to create a window and a frame for my card that measures 5" by 7". When you cut out your window, you will be left with a nice die cut piece that you can use for another project. Once I cut the window, I used an embossing folder to add dimension to the front of the card. Make sure to poke all the little bits from the frame.

You could use a smaller card and use two plants instead of three.

Because I created a window for my card, I needed a backing to create the space where my plants would sit. I had some paper that looked like wood, but you could use any brown paper you might have. Another tip is to create This kind of scene is to use printed cardstock with small patterns to create "wallpaper" for your walls. So, use a piece of 5" by 7" paper as your background base. Then measure your paper and adhere it to the paper base.

The other thing that I did was to fussy cut the individual plants to give them more detail and dimension. Two of the plants I adhered to the background. One of the plants I added to the scene by using foam pieces to bring it forward. I chose to decorate the frame a bit. But you could leave it just as it is

A more masculine scene card

On my second card, I used a different embossing folder. on darker paper. I wanted a distressed look, so I used a sandpaper block on the embossed paper. I chose to leave the background plain to help make the plants the star of the project. In this case, I used colored pencils to color the plants. You can use any black ink for colored pencils to get your outlines. I also used some gamsol to smooth the colored pencil images.

You could use alcohol markers, colored pencils and even watercolors. If you use watercolors make sure to use a pigment ink to stamp your pieces.

I hope that you will look at your stamps in a new light. And if you do not have any stamps to create some scenes, we have suggested a few at the bottom of this post.

Creating scenes is fun and will inspire you to stretch into new techniques and opportunities to wow the folks that you love to send cards to!

Want to find the products I used? I have listed them below. (Compensated affiliate links used at no cost to you) Thank you for your support! All products were personally purchased Click on the icons below each product picture to go to a favorite store.

Thanks for following me on my Altenew journey. We look forward to sharing some new ideas in the near future.

Happy Crafting! See you soon!

Linda

Supplies For These Projects