Elizabeth Allan's Art Studio

A Monochromatic Design

2012-02-24T03:00:00.007-05:00

This sentiment included with Penny Black's Inspiring is so expressive. I wanted it to be the focus of my card so I used a simple, yet bold, monochromatic design to showcase the emotion of the phrase.

The dark Forest Glen card base was layered with a smaller piece of white cardstock that was edged in Delicata Golden Glitz ink.

A second, smaller piece of white cardstock edged in gold was decorated with an elevated portion of a Spellbinder’s Label Seventeen die cut from light Forest Glen cardstock. The wood-grain texture was stamped in Olympia Green VersaFine and highlighted with a sponge dauber and Spanish Moss VersaFine ink.

The dark Forest Glen band notched with a circle punch provided the placement area for the “fussy cut” leaves stamped in Spanish Moss VersaFine.

Dimensional foam tape between all the layers of the design added depth as well as some soft shadows.

One of the many things I enjoy about monochromatic designs is that they are easy to recreate using another color. Integrating different hues of the same color also gives you artistic creativity to add depth and texture.

You can view other previously posted monochromatic designs “here”.

Pick a color, any color, and see what fun monochromatic designs can be!

Happy Friday,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Inspiring 40-113

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Forest Glen 07-001 & 07-003
Spellbinders: Labels Seventeen (S5-025)

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Olympia Green VersaFine, Spanish Moss VersaFine, Delicata Golden Glitz, Jumbo Sponge Dauber, Clear Embossing Powder

Mixing Stamp Styles

2012-02-22T03:00:00.017-05:00

Two different stamp styles can be the perfect match!

Today I am mixing Penny Black’s modern images with several elegant.

These are the stamps that were combined to create the card.

With Journal / Inspiring
Awakening / Scented Message
Garden of Life

The overall design was influenced by the girl’s notebook. I wanted to create the illusion that she was thinking about a recent journal entry.

Awakening was stamped on white cardstock with black ink and heat embossed with clear powder. Several tones of green were used to the color the flowers and then parts of the image were used to create the bushes behind the girl (With Journal).

The “page” is a piece of white cardstock distressed with Peanut Brittle and Bahama Blue Memento inks. The “journaling/sketch” is Scented Message stamped in Peanut Brittle Memento ink. With the background prepared, the girl and the newly created bushes were added and layered with dimensional foam.

TIP/HINT: To create the appearance of spiral-bound paper, use a hole punch to create an evenly spaced row of holes and then use scissors to remove very tiny slits of paper.

The bottom of the “page” is finished with the sentiment stamped in black.

A subtle wood-grain texture stamped in Danube Blue Memento ink was added to the lower half of the dark blue card base.

Enjoy de-categorizing and mixing your stamp styles for endless creative combinations.

Elizabeth

Supplies:
Penny Black Stamps: Awakening 4237K, Garden of Life 4263F, Scented Message 4239K, Inspiring 40-113, With Journal 40-127
Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Clear Skies 10-003

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

Copic Markers

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Bahama Blue Memento, Danube Blue Memento, Peanut Brittle Memento, Clear Embossing Powder, Jumbo Sponge Daubers

Color Infusion with Cardstock

2012-02-20T03:00:00.002-05:00

Creating vibrant swatches of color is fast and easy with your favorite cardstocks.

Here various widths of Penny Black's Mix & Match Cardstocks were layered to create a “paint chip” of colors. Adding different proportions of stamping to the sections adds another visual element. In this design you can see that one segment is unstamped, one is fully stamped and the third has a portion of stamping.

Larger stamps such as Wow and Inspiring make great backgrounds (sky and grass) and are just as delicate and detailed when used in smaller components.

Tip/Hint: Cutting a white cardstock base the size of the overall color strip makes it easy to align the color segments and adds a thick chipboard appearance. It also creates a sturdy base if the element is elevated with dimensional foam.

The cute pup from Critter Workout, whether he is used alone or paired with his jumping-rope companion, can be paired with a multitude of sentiments for a variety of occasions.

Scored lines around the face of the card finish the design.

Wishing you a day filled with color....
Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Critter Workout 4253J, Wow 40-112, Inspiring 40-113

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstocks: Fern Green 05-002, Clear Skies 10-001, Fall Festival 16-001

Copic Markers

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Spanish Moss VersaFine, VersaMark Watermark Ink, Clear Embossing Powder

Coloring With Brushstixs (Tutorial & Video)

2012-02-17T03:00:00.004-05:00

Hello Everyone!

Today I have a detailed tutorial with a video for this tag project featuring two of Penny Black’s new transparent sets (Flowers Sweet and Wishes) along with Tsukineko’s Brushstixs.

These mixed media brushes were released at CHA and come in a wide array of styles. The foam tips are fabulous for all sorts of projects and applications. Plus, they are washable.

Below are detailed instructions for the tag as well as a video included in Step 3 that shows how the Brushstixs were used for coloring. Enjoy…..

Step 1: Die cut an oval from white cardstock. Leave the metal die over the cardstock and apply Sea Breeze VersaMagic ink with a jumbo sponge dauber.

Step 2: Remove the metal die and dust the cardstock with an anti-static pouch. Stamp the flower and sentiment with Onyx Black VersaFine and heat emboss with clear powder. Set aside.

Step 3: On a separate piece of white cardstock, stamp the flower with Onyx Black VersaFine ink and heat emboss with clear powder. Color with Brushstixs and Thatched Straw, Mango Madness and Red Magic VersaMagic inks. For a visual reference using the Brushstixs, please view the video.

Note: The leaves on the main tag were also colored with Brushstixs, Aloe Vera VersaMagic and Tea Leaves VersaMagic.

Step 4: Trim the flower and spray with Sparkle Sheer Shimmer Spritz.

Step 5: Align and attach the flower element to the prepared tag with dimensional foam.

Step 6: Add a decorative ribbon.

Have a great weekend....

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Flowers Sweet 30-096, Wishes 30-103

Tsukineko: Brushstix, Onyx Black VersaFine, Sea Breeze VersaMagic, Thatched Straw VersaMagic, Mango Madness VersaMagic, Red Magic VersaMagic, Aloe Vera VersaMagic, Tea Leaves VersaMagic, Sparkle Sheer Shimmer Spritz, Jumbo Sponge Dauber, Clear Embossing Powder

Spellbinders: Classic Ovals Large (S4-110)

American Crafts: Elements Premium Ribbon – Aqua #4

A Wonderful Day

2012-02-14T03:01:00.002-05:00

This is an exciting week as Penny Black is releasing their new 2012 Collection! Don't miss all the wonderful art they will be sharing on their blog featuring these new designs!

Featuring all new stamps: Damask Pattern, Butterfly Kiss & Gratitude

One of my new favorites is Damask Pattern. Whether you just need a touch of pattern or want a larger focal design, this background stamp is very versatile. For this card, I opted to have just a touch peeking out behind the die cut. The pattern was inked with Olympia Green VersaFine and stamped on Fern Green cardstock.

Peanut Brittle Memento ink was used to highlight the die cut before the trimmed art (Butterfly Kiss) was adhered with dimensional foam.

The sentiment is from the new transparent set “Gratitude” which has a fabulous assortment of greetings.

Wishing you a wonderful day!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Butterfly Kiss 4233K, Damask Pattern 40-110, Gratitude 30-105

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Fern Green 05-002

Copic Markers

Dimensional Foam: EK Success 3D Dots, 3M Scotch Foam Tape

Sakura: Sparkle Gelly Roll Pen

Spellbinders: Labels Eight (S5-019)

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Olympia Green VersaFine, Peanut Brittle Memento, Jumbo Sponge Dauber, Clear Embossing Powder

Tres Chic (1 Stamp - 3 Cards)

2012-02-13T03:00:00.002-05:00

One impression of the lovely new “Tres Chic” from Penny Black was used to create this trio of cards.

Spellbinder’s Seventeen die cuts from Penny Black’s Mix & Match Cardstocks were used for the card bases and each color was stamped with Damask Pattern in VersaMark Watermark Ink and heat embossed with clear powder.

Clear Skies 10-001, Purple Mountain 12-002, Rose Garden 14-001

The oval die cuts were highlighted with Peanut Brittle Memento Ink applied with a sponge dauber before the trimmed images were elevated on top.

All the sentiments are from the new transparent Wishes set.

By keeping the die-cut shapes and marker colors consistent throughout the project, it was easy to quickly transform one stamp into three cards.

Thank you for your continuous visits and support. They are greatly appreciated and never go unnoticed!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Tres Chic 4260K, Damask Pattern 40-110, Wishes 30-103

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Clear Skies 10-001, Rose Garden 14-001, Purple Mountain 12-002

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

Copic Markers

Spellbinders: Labels Seventeen (S5-025), Classic Ovals Large (S4-110)

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, VersaMark Watermark Ink, Peanut Brittle Memento, Clear Embossing Powder, Jumbo Sponge Dauber

Time To Decorate

2012-02-10T03:00:00.003-05:00

Today St. Paul's Cathedral is being visited by some of Penny Black's cute critters who are getting ready for a birthday celebration - possibly Queen Elizabeth's!

The critters and banners are from the transparent Love London set and the sentiment is from Party Time.

Bahama Blue Memento and Vintage Sepia VersaFine inks were applied with sponge daubers for a two-tone background.

Psst.....A little birdie told me that Penny Black is having a giveaway with some of the new London Collection stamps..... click "here" to find out more!

Thank you for your visit.

Have a wonderful weekend,
Elizabeth

Supplies:
Penny Black Stamps: St. Paul's Cathedral 4224J, Love London 30-093, Party Time 30-049
Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Storm 01-003
Copic Markers
Dimensional Foam: Tombow and 3M Scotch
Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Bahama Blue Memento, Vintage Sepia VersaFine, Clear Embossing Powder, Sponge Daubers

A London Note

2012-02-08T03:01:00.004-05:00

Have you had a chance to take a peek at Penny Black’s new London Collection? All this week the Penny Black Blog is showcasing their designers' art with these images. Perfect for every day and to celebrate the upcoming Olympic Games!

I did a little bit of paper engineering to make this easel card.

A Spellbinders’ Label Two die cut was altered to create the easel. A few splashes of Copic markers added a bit of color to St. Paul’s Cathedral.

The base was distressed with Peanut Brittle Memento ink and stamped with Letter Background in the same color. The sentiment is from Tiny Wishes.

In my next post, St. Paul's Cathedral will be visited by some birthday critters!

Have a happy day,
Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: 4224J St. Paul’s Cathedral, 1999L Letter Background, 30-026 Tiny Wishes

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam

Copic Markers: E41, E42, E43

Spellbinders: Labels 2 (S4-162)

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Peanut Brittle Memento, Jumbo Sponge Dauber, Clear Embossing Powder

Best Wishes

2012-02-06T03:00:00.033-05:00

When I saw this new Westminster Abbey image from Penny Black, I imagined myself across the street viewing it from behind a tree in bloom. The Abbey has such fabulous details that all I added was a tiny splash of color.

I used parts of Butterfly Suite to create the background pattern and the blossoming tree.

The elevated frame is Penny Black's Sticks & Stones (02-002) paper which was distressed in Vintage Sepia VersaFine ink, pounced with VersaMark Frost Dazzle Watermark ink and heat embossed with clear powder.

Enjoy your day,
Elizabeth

Supplies:
Penny Black Stamps: Westminster Abbey 4226L, Butterfly Suite 4182K, Sentiments 30-025
Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Sticks & Stones 02-002
Copic Markers
Dimensional Foam: EK Success & 3M Scotch
Ranger: Turquoise Stickles
Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Vintage Sepia VersaFine, VersaMark Frost Dazzle Watermark Ink, Pear Tart Memento, Bamboo Leaves Memento, Clear Embossing Powder, Sponge Daubers

Hugs!

2012-02-03T03:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone!

I am back from CHA and I am so excited to begin using Penny Black’s new releases. There are so many fabulous designs.

This mini card was made with an inverted Spellbinders' Flower Pot die cut and the Love London transparent set.

I changed the sentiment on the image, added a couple of dimensional layers and used Warm Wishes for the background pattern.

I am looking forward to sharing more London designs with you next week.

Many thanks to all of you who stopped by the Penny Black booth during the show! It was so much fun to chat, hug and smile.

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Love London 30-093, Warm Wishes 40-074, Betsy Bluebell 30-053, Hugs 30-020
Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Summer Sun 17-002
Copic Markers
Spellbinders: Flower Pots (S5-060)
Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Mango Madness VersaMagic, Clear Embossing Powder, Sponge Dauber

Package Repurposing & CHA Convention

2012-01-27T03:01:00.006-05:00

I am a big proponent of recycling and love to find ways to re-purpose things.

This thank you box originally started out as fishing lure package.

The manufacturer’s advertising was removed and used as a template.

Back View of Acrylic Package

After tracing the template on white cardstock and trimming, the edges were colored with new Memento Inks - Love Letter, Elderberry and Peanut Brittle which were applied with Ink Blushers. Ink Blushers are fun, new sponges by Tsukineko. The sentiment (Flower Gallery) was stamped in Onyx Black VersaFine and heat embossed with clear powder. The tiny heart (Raindrops & Kisses) was stamped in Love Letter Memento and distressed with Peanut Brittle Memento.

To create a subtle texture, a VersaMark Watermark Ink Pen was used to trace around the inked perimeter. Clear embossing powder was sprinkled on the wet ink and then heated.

A small slot punched into the top of the tag allows the acrylic box to be secured closed with a ribbon.

All that is left is to fill the container with some yummy treats!

I will be away from my blog for a few days as I am excited to be attending the winter CHA convention and will be in the Penny Black booth. If you are attending, please stop by and say hello.

I will see you next Friday with a new post.

Happily,
Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Raindrops & Kisses 30-088, Flower Gallery 30-031

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

American Crafts: Ribbon

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Love Letter Memento, Elderberry Memento, Peanut Brittle Memento, Ink Blushers, VersaMark Watermark Ink Pen, Clear Embossing Powder.

Celebrate Friends

2012-01-25T03:01:00.003-05:00

Beginning today, the Penny Black Blog will be featuring “All Occasion” cards. Over the next ten days, there will be great ideas for making cards that can be used anytime during the year!

I created a “friendship” card for the event.

The summer sun card base was stamped with Circular Design in Habanero VersaFine ink with an added bit of distressing around the edges.

The fussy cut mice are from The Touch of Love transparent set. The flag was created by combining the banner from Halloween Treats with the word “friends” from the True Friends verse.

Tip/Hint: Stamp “friends” from the wood block stamp first and then stamp the banner. With the banner being an acrylic stamp, it is easy to view the sentiment through the stamp and acrylic block for quick alignment.

The elements are elevated on a Spellbinders’ Label Eighteen die cut which was shaded with a jumbo sponge dauber and Majestic Blue VersaFine ink.

Thank you for YOUR friendship!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: The Touch of Love 30-089, Circular Design 40-046, Halloween Treats 30-078, True Friends 3852E

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Summer Sun 17-003

Copic Markers

Dimensional Foam: EK Success, 3M Scotch

Spellbinders: Labels Eighteen (S4-310)

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Majestic Blue VersaFine, Habanero VersaFine, Jumbo Sponge Dauber, Clear Embossing Powder

Other: Florist Wire

Gold - A Dressy Alternative

2012-01-23T03:00:00.010-05:00

Today I am switching from basic black to dressy gold.

I really like this sentiment from Penny Black’s Raindrops & Kisses set and wanted to use it with a fancier design. To “dress up” the verse, I stamped it with VersaMark Watermark ink and heat embossed it with gold powder.

Love Grows was stamped on white cardstock with VersaMark Watermark ink and heat embossed with white powder and then distressed with Angel Pink and Lilac Posies Memento inks. For an alternative to a black outline, a VersaMarker pen was traced along the cut edge. While the ink was wet, it was sprinkled with gold embossing powder then heat set.

A paintbrush dipped in Angel Pink Fireworks and “flicked” over the white card base added speckles of sparkle.

A faint stamping of this postage stamp from Flowers & Wishes in Pixie Dust VersaMagic adorns the upper right corner.

Hearts All Over was stamped on light Fuchsia Fantasies cardstock with Lilac Posies ink for a shower of hearts.

Thank you for your visit and I hope that any showers that come your way are filled with hearts and kisses!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Raindrops & Kisses 30-088, Hearts All Over 40-094, Love Grows 4121K, Flowers & Wishes 30-047

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Fuchsia Fantasies 13-001

Darice: Crystal Gems

EK Success: 3D Dots

Tsukineko: Lilac Posies Memento, Angel Pink Memento, VersaMark Watermark Ink, VersaMarker Pen, Gold Embossing Powder, White Embossing Powder, Angel Pink Fireworks, Sponge Daubers

Offray: Pink Sheer Ribbon

A Rose for You

2012-01-20T03:00:00.007-05:00

Using themed stamps throughout the year is one of my favorite challenges. Today I slipped a small section of Penny Black’s "A Merry Little Christmas" behind my focal point to create the patterned paper.

The background piece uses a resist/ironing technique which you can read about in this post “here”.

The “I love you” letter inside the envelope was switched with a “for you” message and a fussy cut rose was included. All these images are part of Love Assortment.

From this angle, you can see that various elements of the card were elevated with dimensional foam.

The decorative outer edge of the card was highlighted with Sahara Sand VersaMagic ink and the Scroll Strip was then stamped with the same color ink. For added sparkle, the stamped scrolls were dotted with a sparkle gel pen.

A rose is a rose is a rose is a rose. - Gertrude Stein

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Love Assortment 30-090, Tiny Wishes 30-026, A Merry Little Christmas 4209K, Scroll Strip 3863H

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Storm 01-003, Sticks & Stones 02-001

Copic Markers

EK Success: 3D-Dots

Sakura: Sparkle Gel Pen

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Sahara Sand VersaMagic, Delicata Golden Glitz, Pear Tart Fireworks, Rhubarb Stalk Fireworks, Clear Embossing Powder, Sponge Daubers

Ribbon: Offray

Especially For You

2012-01-18T03:01:00.009-05:00

Valentine stamps are perfect for sending love all during the year.

The brushstroke Rose Heart by Penny Black was stamped on white cardstock with Crimson Red VersaFine ink and heat embossed with clear powder. After coloring the image with Copics and trimming, the sentiment from Love Assortment was stamped in black ink. The entire piece was then pounced with Frost VersaMagic Watermark ink. While the ink was still wet, clear embossing powder was sprinkled on top and heat set to create a decal/sticker effect.

Tip/Hint: To keep twine or ribbon from sliding off of angled images, cut small “v” notches in the image to hold the wrappings in place.

The flowers were accented with Fruit Punch Stickles.

The first base layer of the card is white cardstock stamped with Letter Background in Delicata Golden Glitz ink and distressed with a combination of Lilac Posies Memento and Pink Petunia VersaMagic.

A thin strip of light Fuchsia Fantasies cardstock stamped with Paisley Outline in Rhubarb Stalk Memento ink was pleated and hand stitched. Before the band was wrapped around the stamped base, a strip of die-cut scallops from medium Fern Green cardstock was attached. After the band was secured in position, a few pieces of dimensional foam were tucked underneath to add dimension.

The finished piece was then matted with squares of light and dark Fuchsia Fantasies cardstocks.

You can see more beautiful brushstroke stamps by Penny Black featured on their blog “here”. The design team has lots of colorful inspiration to share with you this week.

Thank you for visiting!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Rose Heart 40-095, Love Assortment 30-090, Paisley Outline 40-048, Letter Background 1999L

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Fern Green 05-002, Fuchsia Fantasies 13-001, 13-003

Copic Markers

EK Success: 3-D Dots

Making Memories: Celery Elastic Cord

Spellbinders: Scalloped Squares

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Crimson Red VersaFine, Frost VersaMark Watermark Ink, Rhubarb Stalk Memento, Lilac Posies Memento, Pink Petunia VersaMagic, Delicata Golden Glitz, Clear Embossing Powder, Sponge Daubers

Other: White Thread, Needle, Paper Piercer

Vellum Birthday Flowers

2012-01-16T03:00:00.006-05:00

Layering portions of a die-cut is a fun way to create a pocket which today I filled with vellum flowers.

This pocket was made with Spellbinders' Labels Fifteen die cuts. The metal die was also used as a mask for the ink shading and as a template to trace the black outline. The smaller pocket portion wrapped with ribbon was stamped with Flourish Birthday.

A view of the embossing on the front of the vellum with the coloring on the back.

Sundial was stamped on vellum with white pigment ink and heat embossed with white powder. On the back of the stamped image, darker highlight tones were added with a dark blue colored pencil then light blue dye ink was rubbed over the entire image with a sponge dauber.

On the front of the flower, a stardust gel pen was scribbled on the petals a little at a time and gently smoothed with my fingertip. A circle die-cut from vellum was pounced with blue ink and stamped on the opposite side with the sentiment. Layering the vellum with a white cardstock circle stiffened the button embellishment before it was attached with dimensional foam.

The card base holding the pocket of flowers is a blue lagoon tent card measuring 2 7/8 x 3 3/4 inches.

Thank you for your visit.

Have a fabulous day,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Sundial 4159K, Flourish Birthday 4071F, Micey Day 30-028

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Blue Lagoon 09-003

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam (1/16)

EK Success: Dimensional Foam (1/8)

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Bahama Blue Memento, White VersaColor, Magnolia Bud VersaMagic, Sponge Dauber, Clear Embossing Powder, White Embossing Powder

Sakura: Stardust Gelly Roll Pen

Staedtler-Mars, Ltd: Ergosoft Colored Pencils

Spellbinders: Standard Circles Large, Labels Fifteen

Other: Black Swiss Dot Grosgrain Ribbon

Miniature Gift Bag Art

2012-01-13T03:00:00.001-05:00

This little “present with a handle” was inspired by a gift bag.

Finished Size: 2" Square

I used Penny Black’s Mix & Match Cardstock to create the bag which gives a traditional white interior and allowed me to sand the color away from the exterior edges for a contrasting border.

To hide the cut ends of the cording and add reinforcement to the handles, small strips of white cardstock were adhered to the inside top edges.

I picked the little girl from the Beep Beep transparent set to use as an embellishment. A stamped, colored and trimmed image was elevated with dimensional foam. (Tip/Hint: If you decide to add a sentiment, as shown on this design, it is easier to do the stamping prior to folding and assembling the bag.) A coordinating tag and tissue paper for “birthday” or “thinking of you” wishes can be added to personalize the gift.

These little bags are also fun to design as purses and party favors!

Happy Friday,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Beep Beep 30-092, Salutations 30-014

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Sticks & Stones 02-002

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

Copic Markers

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Clear Embossing Powder

Other: Black Cording, Sandpaper

A Hug

2012-01-11T03:00:00.001-05:00

Tom and Tilly are here to share a hug….

This little “squeeze” is a flash to assemble in 5 steps:

Create a 2 ¾ x 5 ½-inch top-fold card from white cardstock.
Stamp a portion of Rose Heart in Pixie Dust VersaMagic ink across the lower half of the card.
Stamp “A hug” in Onyx Black VersaFine ink.
Stamp Tom and Tilly on a separate piece of white cardstock in Onyx Black VersaFine Ink and heat emboss with clear powder. Color and trim.
Attached the trimmed image to the front of the card with dimensional foam.

Have a great day and share a hug!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Tom and Tilly 40-098, Rose Heart 40-095, Perfect Gift 4179J

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Storm 01-001

Copic Markers

EK Success: 3D Dots

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Pixie Dust VersaMagic

Card Canopy Technique

2012-01-09T03:00:00.002-05:00

Folded card toppers are a fun way to add a “canopy” to your card while also adding a design element to the back.

The canopy was created from a rectangular scalloped piece of white cardstock which was stamped with Delicate Pattern in VersaMark Watermark Ink and heat embossed with clear powder. Lilac Posies ink was then sponged on to fill in and around the embossed image.

The piece was trimmed to allow a portion to be glued to the back of the card with enough length to fold over the top and be elevated with dimensional foam to create the "canopy" on the front.

The hearts from Love Assortment were stamped on watercolor paper with black pigment ink and heat embossed with clear powder. Marker ink applied to a plastic palette was then transferred with a paintbrush to color the design. The trimmed piece was bended slightly before being attached with dimensional foam. The beautiful flourish sentiment is also from Love Assortment.

Have a wonderful day!

Elizabeth

Penny Black Stamps: Love Assortment 30-090, Delicate Pattern 40-047

Canson: Watercolor Paper

Tombow Dual Brush Pens: 055, 076, 090, 098, 133, 195, 606, 703, 757, 761, 835, 925, 985

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Lilac Posies Memento Ink, VersaMark Watermark Ink, Lilac Posies Memento Ink Pen, Clear Embossing Powder, Sponge Dauber

Spellbinders: Small Classic Scalloped Rectangles S4-131

Other: Paintbrush, Dimensional Foam

Stamped Valentine Medallion

2012-01-06T03:00:00.001-05:00

Ornate stamps are fabulous for creating custom die-cut embellishments.

Four sections of Penny Black’s Corner Piece were nestled together to create this elegant Valentine medallion.

Stamping the Corner Piece four times on white cardstock with black pigment ink and heat embossing with clear powder created the components for the medallion. After each section was trimmed and aligned, additional pieces of cardstock were used on the reverse side for reinforcement. A light application of Wheat VersaMagic and Crimson Red VersaFine inks were used for shading. (Option: If desired, this design can also be achieved by using a stamp positioner.)

The medallion is elevated on a frame made with a Labels Fifteen Spellbinders' die with the addition of a circular die-cut window.

For a glittery tint, the frame was pounced with Frost VersaMark Watermark Ink and dusted with Gold Perfect Pearls.

The tiny heart from Love Assortment adds a pop of color to the center of the medallion and the sentiment is a part of the cling set All You Need.

Thank you for stopping by to visit and sharing your comments!

Have a happy day,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Corner Piece 3859H, All You Need 40-092, Love Assortment 30-090

Mark Richards: Pearl Stickers

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Wheat VersaMagic, Crimson Red VersaFine, Frost VersaMark Watermark, Clear Embossing Powder

Ranger: Gold Perfect Pearls

Spellbinders: Labels Fifteen, Standard Circles

Other: Dimensional Foam

Love Is In The Air (Spot Coloring Technique)

2012-01-04T03:01:00.002-05:00

This week the Penny Black Blog is featuring cards that contain spot coloring. This is a fun technique for creating bold statements of color.

Two different types of spot coloring were used on Penny Black’s “In the Air”.

(1) The sentiment was inked with red and black VersaFine ink pads before stamping for a two-tone effect.

(2) To add another corresponding punch of color, the extra elevated balloon was accented with red micro-fine glitter.

Tip/Hint: Red Stickles were applied to the elevated balloon and while wet, red micro-fine glitter was sprinkled on top. When dry, a light brush was used to dust away any excess or loose glitter.

Thank you for visiting!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: In the Air 40-093

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Storm 01-001

Art Institute Glitter: Ruby Red Microfine Opaque

Ranger: X-Mas Red Stickles

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Crimson Red VersaFine, Clear Embossing Powder

Frog Love

2012-01-02T03:00:00.004-05:00

Today I am working with Penny Black’s Mix & Match Cardstock in reverse. Instead of having the color on the outside, I folded the card with the white facing out and trimmed the front flap to reveal a small border of the pretty green from the inside.

Here is a view of the card slightly opened:

Viva Diva was stamped on a separate piece of white cardstock with Onyx Black VersaFine ink and heat embossed with clear powder. The heat embossing provides a great “fence” when coloring and the image remains crisp and sharp. After trimming, it was then attached with dimensional foam.

The Scroll Strip stamped in Magnolia Bud ink provided a subtle and elegant design in which the sentiment was over stamped.

Last but not least - every crown needs some glitter!

Have a happy day,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: All You Need 40-092, Viva Diva! 4025H, Scroll Strip 3863H

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Fern Green 05-002

Copic Markers: G0000, G02, G03, G28, R12, R20, R24, Y0000, YG11, Gold Atyou Spica Pen

Ranger: Crystal Stickles

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Magnolia Bud VersaMagic, Clear Embossing Powder

Penny Black & Flower Soft Blog Hop

2011-12-30T03:01:00.004-05:00

Welcome Blog Hoppers!

If you are just now joining in, click “here” for the starting point of the hop and to read more about how your comments on each designer's blog will enter you in random drawings for fabulous prizes. There is also a creative challenge that could win you a guest designing spot at Penny Black!

The addition of Flower Soft to these fanciful stamped hearts gives the design colorful dimension.

Here are 3 quick steps for creating these textured flowers:

Stamp All You Need in Spanish Moss ink and heat emboss with clear powder.
Apply Red Stickles to the colored hearts and sprinkle with Ultra-Fine Strawberry Flower Soft.
When dry, lightly brush away any loose Flower Soft.

The butterfly from the transparent Illumination set was used for an embellishment and the sentiment is from Raindrops & Kisses.

Enjoy your “hopping” as you continue on to Gini Cagle’s blog “here”. This event will be open until January 1, Midnight PST.

Thank you for all your love and support throughout 2011.

Happy New Year!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: All You Need 40-092, Raindrops & Kisses 30-088, Illumination 30-048

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Rose Garden 14-003

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

American Crafts: Red Sheer Ribbon

Flower Soft: Ultra-Fine Strawberry

Ranger: X-Mas Red Stickles
Tsukineko: Spanish Moss VersaFine, Onyx Black VersaFine, Crimson Red VersaFine, Vintage Sepia VersaFine, Clear Embossing Powder

Truly * Madly* Deeply

2011-12-28T03:00:00.002-05:00

Have you seen the new transparent Valentine set called Raindrops & Kisses? After making this card I realized I only used half of the images offered in the set! It has a terrific assortment of fabulous designs.

Follow along step-by-step:

Create a 3 ¾ x 5 ½ card from Rose Garden cardstock and round the top two corners.
Cut a 3 ½ x 5 ¼ piece of white cardstock and round the top two corners.
Mask off the top portion of the white cardstock allowing only 1 ¾ inches exposed on the bottom section. With a sponge dauber, lightly rub Pink Grapefruit ink along the sides and bottom of the exposed section. Repeatedly stamp “love” on top with the same color ink. Remove the mask and attach the piece to the front of the card with dimensional foam.
Stamp “truly, madly, deeply” in black ink and heat emboss with clear powder on a ½ x 3 ¼-inch piece of white cardstock. (Note: An extra heart was stamped at the beginning of the phrase.) Mat with a 5/8 x 3 ¼-inch piece of Rose Garden cardstock. Attach to the front of the card with double-sided adhesive.
Stamp the bear with the wreath on a separate piece of white cardstock in black ink and heat emboss with clear powder. (Note: I stamped the image multiple times so I could create additional elements to layer.)
Color the image and trim. Attach to the front of the card with dimensional foam.
Accent with glitter.

I look forward to seeing you on Friday when I will be sharing a "hopping" fun event!

Thank you for visiting. The time you share with me is greatly appreciated!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Raindrops & Kisses 30-088

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Rose Garden 14-003

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam

Copic Markers

Ranger: Red Stickles, Crystal Stickles

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Pink Grapefruit VersaMagic, Sponge Dauber, Clear Embossing Powder

Sweetheart

2011-12-26T03:00:00.001-05:00

The new Valentine release by Penny Black has so many wonderful images for mixing and matching. Today I paired a transparent set with a slapstick stamp for this circular card.

The background under the elevated circle frame is white cardstock distressed with Pink Grapefruit VersaMagic with Hearts All Over stamped in the same color ink.

The bears and sentiment are from the transparent set called Beep Beep. The bears were colored with Copics, fussy cut and then attached with dimensional foam.

The border used for the grass band is from the set called Halloween Treats. I love that this set has many designs that I can use throughout the year.

All the supplies for this card are listed below for a quick reference.

Please always feel free to e-mail me at elizabeth.a.allan@gmail.com if you would like more information or have questions about any of my postings.

Have a wonderful day,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Beep Beep 30-092, Hearts All Over 40-094, Halloween Treats 30-078

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Rose Garden 14-003

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

Copic Markers

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Pink Grapefruit VersaMagic, Clear Embossing Powder

Sakura: White Gel Pen

Spellbinders: Standard Circles

Christmas Wishes

2011-12-23T03:00:00.001-05:00

A special holiday wish for you……

These snugly little mice from Dreaming of a White Christmas were water colored, fussy cut and layered onto a Retro Pattern background stamped in Summer Sky Memento ink. The “dreamy” sentiment is from the transparent Winter Wonders set.

May your holidays be blessed with love, joy and peace.

Merry Christmas!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Dreaming of a White Christmas 4198K, Retro Pattern 40-086, Winter Wonders 30-087

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Spring Meadows 06-001, 06-002; Fuchsia Fantasies 13-002

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

Canson: Watercolor Paper

Tombow: Dual Brush Markers

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Summer Sky Memento, Clear Embossing Powder

FOREVER....friends!

2011-12-21T03:00:00.002-05:00

Today I have another new Penny Black Valentine stamp illustrated by Mo Manning.

This “Queen of Hearts” is perfect for sending an adamant message….

She is very passionate about her friends as you can see from the inside of the card!

The banner from “Love Assortment” was used in its original format on the front of the card. The inside greeting omitted the inking of the sentiment, turning it upside down and substituting “friends” from “Mimi’s Many Loves” transparent collection.

The card base and matted layers were constructed from Penny Black’s Mix & Match Cardstocks: Rose Garden (14-003), Periwinkle (11-003) and Storm (01-003).

The background behind the queen is a fabulous slapstick stamp called “Hearts All Over” stamped in Aspen Mist VersaMagic. All the coloring was done with Copics and the trimmed images were elevated with dimensional foam.

Be sure to stop by the Penny Black Blog to see how the designers are using all these fabulous new Valentine designs.

Smiles,
Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Queen of Hearts 40-096, Hearts All Over 40-094, Love Assortment 30-090, Mimi’s Many Loves 30-091

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Rose Garden 14-003, Periwinkle 11-003, Storm 01-003

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

Copic Markers

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Aspen Mist VersaMagic, Crimson Red VersaFine (to darken the card base)

Hugs & Kisses

2011-12-19T03:00:00.017-05:00

Penny Black has just released their new Valentine collection and they have some fantastic Mo Manning images as a part of the release.

This slapstick stamp called “Kisses” makes me smile.

I exchanged her bouquet of flowers for a Valentine heart from the transparent Beep Beep set. I can picture her giving this surprise to a beau at school.

The square background is a separate piece of white cardstock stamped with Hearts All Over in Pink Grapefruit VersaMagic ink and then distressed with more of the same ink color. Edging the piece with a black marker makes it appear it has been matted without the extra bulk.

Tip/Hint: To accentuate the appearance of her leaning forward, dimensional foam was used toward the top of the fussy cut image and regular double-sided adhesive down toward the feet.

The sentiment is a portion of Purr-fect Message stamped in black and the heart pendant was accented with Glossy Accents.

You can view all the new fabulous images in the digital Valentine catalog "here".

Wishing you a day filled with lots of hugs and kisses,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Kisses 40-097, Hearts All Over 40-094, Beep Beep 30-092, Purr-fect Message 40-040

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Sticks & Stones 01-001

Copic Markers

Ranger: Glossy Accents

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Pink Grapefruit VersaMagic, Clear Embossing Powder

Thanks a Bunch!

2011-12-16T03:00:00.002-05:00

This set of thank you cards was made using a portion of “Brimming with Love” one of Penny Black’s new Valentine stamps.

Rounded corners and decorative scored lines were added to simple tent cards. The carts were stamped in Black VersaFine and heat embossed with clear powder. After coloring each design with Copic markers, they were trimmed and adhered to the card with dimensional foam. Star Dust Stickles were added as an accent. The sentiment is part of the transparent Betsy Blue Bell set.

Enjoy pairing this cute “cart of hearts” with different sentiments for cards for all occasions!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Brimming With Love 4232J, Betsy Blue Bell 30-053

EK Success: Dimensional Foam

Copic Markers: R24, R39, R83, RV19

Ranger: Star Dust Stickles

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Clear Embossing Powder

Merci Penguins

2011-12-14T03:00:00.004-05:00

This week Penny Black is featuring thank you cards and today I am hosting their blog with this pair of thankful penguins.

The card bases were constructed using Spellbinder’s Labels Eighteen. The card on the left was processed through the die-cutting machine with an embossing mat and the card on the right has an additional frame added. The white cardstock die-cut frame was transformed with Bahama Blue Memento ink and stamped with the background from Warm Wishes.

The sentiment is from the transparent set Salutations and the cute penguin is a part of Christmas with Mimi. A black glaze pen is great for creating brad-like accents.

Tip/Hint: Cutting a small portion from the back card base will give the card three points of contact when displayed and prevent the piece from “rocking”.

Merci beaucoup for visiting today!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Christmas With Mimi 30-079, Warm Wishes 40-074, Salutations 30-014

3M Scotch & EK Success: Dimensional Foam

Copic Markers

Sakura: Black Glaze Pen

Spellbinders: Labels Eighteen (S4-310), Classic Ovals Large (S4-110)

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Bahama Blue Memento, Clear Embossing Powder, Sponge Daubers

Deck The Halls

2011-12-12T03:00:00.011-05:00

Hedgies love to decorate for the holidays!

The garland on Penny Black’s Star Struck was altered to include the round sentiment from Let It Snow.

The festive background was created by horizontally stamping Circles & Lines and then over stamping with Kind Wishes which was inked with coordinating Tombow Markers.

All images were water colored, fussy cut and then elevated on a small piece of white cardstock before being attached to the prepared card base cut from Reverse Wonky Rectangles.

Enjoy the festivities of the season,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Kind Wishes 40-080, Circles & Lines 40-084, Star Struck 4195K, Let It Snow30-086

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Spring Meadow 06-003

Canson: Watercolor Paper

Ranger: Yellow Stickles

Spellbinders: Reverse Wonky Rectangles (S4-307)

Tombow: Dual Brush Markers

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Clear Embossing Powder

"Chalk Pouncing" Technique

2011-12-09T03:00:00.002-05:00

Soft pastel chalks make great backgrounds for your favorite sentiments.

This technique can be achieved in TWO steps!

Step 1: Ink the desired image with VersaMark Watermark ink and stamp on white cardstock.

Step 2: Using small bits from a cotton ball, apply chalk colors in a pouncing fashion. The ink will “grab” the chalk and the image will come to life.

Hint: If you find that you need to remove chalk from a non-stamped area, a clean white eraser is the perfect tool.

The card design was finished by stamping the sentiment in black ink and adding a sparkly sheer ribbon.

Have a great weekend,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Hillflowers 3938K, Gratitude 3855E

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Blue Lagoon 09-003

Tsukineko: VersaMark Watermark Ink, Onyx Black VersaFine

Offray: Ribbon

Other: Chalk, Cotton Ball

Faux Leather Technique

2011-12-07T03:01:00.002-05:00

This week the Penny Black designers are sharing techniques and I am hosting their blog today with this “faux leather” design.

The “leather” is a piece of tan craft foam that was heated until it was very soft and pliable. Directly after heating, a pre-inked Forest Friends in Jet Black StazOn was stamped on the surface. Firm pressure for several seconds creates not only the impression, but also an embossed, etched effect in the foam.

After the impression was made, a combination of Vintage Sepia and Gingerbread VersaMagic inks were applied with daubers around the deer.

For a stylized design, the “leather” was wrapped around a heavy piece of cardstock and the edges were secured by using a hot glue gun. After completion, the entire piece was attached to the front of the card with Tombow Power Adhesive Tabs.

A tan tent card burnished with Vintage Sepia ink was sprayed with Gold Sheer Shimmer Spritz. The thin decorative band is white cardstock stamped with Winter Sky in black ink and heat embossed with clear powder. The green tone is a pouncing of Spanish Moss ink.

The decorative band was attached with pewter brads to a piece of dark brown cardstock stamped with Retro Pattern in Vintage Sepia ink.

The “happy birthday” sentiment stamped on white cardstock with black ink and heat embossed with clear powder was aged and distressed with Spanish Moss and Vintage Sepia inks. A black glaze pen was used to simulate brads and a small piece of dimensional foam under the center of the banner adds dimension.

This is also a fun technique to use with white fun foam and snowflake stamps!

Thank you for sharing your time with me.

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Forest Friends 40-077, Retro Pattern 40-086, Winter Sky 4204L, Sentiments 30-025

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Sticks & Stones 02-002 & 02-003

Making Memories: Pewter Brads

Tombow: Power Adhesive Tabs
Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Vintage Sepia VersaFine, Spanish Moss VersaFine, Gingerbread VersaMagic, Gold Sheer Shimmer Spritz, Sponge Daubers

Color, Spritz & Stamp

2011-12-05T03:00:00.004-05:00

Stamping with markers is an easy technique for creating beautiful watercolor images.

Tombow markers were used to apply color directly on the stamp. Prior to stamping on watercolor paper, a light misting of water was spritzed on the colored stamp. Voila! Instant watercoloring in three steps - Color, Spritz & Stamp! Subsequent lighter images can be made from the same colored stamp by re-activating any remaining ink on the stamp with additional mists of water.

The elegant gold border was created by edging the sides of the paper with a Delicata Golden Glitz ink pad.

The sentiment embellishment was created from two tags die cut from white cardstock. One was distressed with Crimson Red VersaFine, stamped with the sentiment and accented with pewter brads that were randomly colored with red and black Sharpies. Dimensional foam was used in the center of the tag to adhere it to the stamped image. The second tag was aligned with the first behind the stamped artwork and the tag ends were glued together. A fun visual accent which also hides the end of the brads.

The finished piece was then adhered to the front of a 2 ¼ x 4 ¾ forest glen tent card.

Thank you for stopping by to visit. I hope you are inspired to watercolor with your stamps.

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Berry Red, Snow White 4202L, In A Pear Tree 30-035

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Forest Glen 07-003

Canson Watercolor Paper

Making Memories: Pewter Brads

Ranger: Xmas Red Stickles, Lime Green Stickles

Tombow Dual Brush Markers: 158, 757

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Olympia Green VersaFine, Crimson Red VersaFine, Delicata Golden Glitz

Sharpie Pens: Red and Black

Spellbinders: Ribbon Tag Trio Three (S4-323)

Stamped Necklace Pendant

2011-12-02T03:00:00.001-05:00

A while ago a friend had given me a box of microscopic slides and I have been anxious to work with them as I had an idea for a jewelry design.

This week I dismantled an old watch with the intention of using the gears as accents, but I ended up fascinated with the spring mechanism and how it uncoiled into this metal embellishment.

The pendant is a layered stack consisting of one microscopic slide, black cardstock, stamped white cardstock and topped with the final microscopic slide. Copper Memory Foil Tape was used to create the faux soldering and tubing. To give it a burnished look, Stone Gray StazOn was randomly applied to the foil.

The artwork is a section of Penny Black’s Eternal stamped in Jet Black StazOn ink on white cardstock and very lightly colored with Memento Inks applied with sponge daubers.

A black brad was placed in the top coil as an accent while one of the watch gears was positioned under the bottom coil. Glossy Accents held the gear in place and while the glue was wet, crystal glitter was sprinkled on top.

These also make lovely window accents.

Have a great day and a terrific weekend,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Eternal 4207K

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Storm 01-003

Inkssentials: Copper Memory Foil Tape

Ranger: Glossy Accents

Tsukineko: Jet Black StazOn, Stone Gray StazOn, Bamboo Leaves Memento, Lilac Posies Memento, Tangelo Memento, Sponge Daubers

Other: Microscopic Slides, Black Cording, Repurposed Watch Parts, Black Brad, Crystal Glitter

Stamped Candles

2011-11-30T06:47:00.000-05:00

Transform simple white pillar candles with rubber stamps and tissue paper.

Holly Candle:

Stamp Holly Tree on a band of white tissue paper with black ink and heat emboss with clear powder. Color the image and trim along the top portion of the band.
Wrap the stamped band around the candle with a band of wax paper on top.
Gently apply heat with a heat tool. The tissue paper will absorb the heated wax and become translucent.
Remove the wax paper.

Gold Tree Candle:

Stamp Tree with Delicata Golden Glitz ink on white tissue paper and heat emboss with gold powder.
Trim closely around the image.
Lay the trimmed image on the candle and place a piece of wax paper on top.
Gently apply heat until the tissue paper absorbs the heated wax and becomes translucent. Peel off the wax paper.

All this week the Penny Black blog will be featuring "Anything-But-A-Card" projects. If you have a moment pop in. You'll be inspired by all the unique ideas.

I will be back on Friday to share a stamped piece of jewelry!

Smiles,
Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Holly Tree 40-087, Winter Wonders 30-087

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Delicata Golden Glitz, Clear Embossing Powder, Gold Embossing Powder, Memento Markers (Cottage Ivy #701, Bamboo Leaves #707, Rhubarb Stalk #301, Rich Cocoa #800)

White Tissue Paper

Wax Paper

A Polar Bear Hello & CardMaker Thank You

2011-11-28T03:00:00.003-05:00

I enjoy my Christmas/holiday stamps so much that I look for ways to use them throughout the year.

A little bit of altering to Bear Hug and this cheery hello was created to tuck away for a snowy winter day.

Here is the original stamp image:

For my design, I simply omitted inking Mimi before stamping.

I drew a separate signpost which I then stamped with “hello friend” in black ink. Layering different elements with dimensional foam added depth and gave me the chance to do one of my favorite things – fussy cut!

The glittery orange background is Summer Sun cardstock lightly distressed with Pumpkin Spice VersaMagic. After adding the highlights, Champagne Dazzle VersaMark Ink was pounced directly from the ink pad onto the cardstock. Sparkle embossing powder was sprinkled on top and heat set. This is an easy and inexpensive way to make your own specialty cardstocks to match any project!

Circle Nestabilities were used for the card base. The bottom of the card was trimmed to emphasize the linear horizontal snow line and give the upper portion the added sense of a full, warm sun. The circular die-cut on the back of the card was scored 1 inch from the top before the decorative orange die-cut was adhered. This eliminated having a small folded crease at the top of the card.

A special thank you to CardMaker Magazine for featuring me "here" on their blog today as a part of their "Meet the Designer" series.

Thank you for all the smiles you share with me!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Bear Hug 4188K, Hello Friend 30-069

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Summer Sun 17-003

Copic Markers

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Pumpkin Spice VersaMagic, Champagne Dazzle VersaMark, Clear Embossing Powder, Sparkle Embossing Powder, Sponge Daubers

Spellbinders: Standard Circle Nestabilities

Dimensional Foam: 3M Scotch and 3-D Dots by EK Success

Christmas Tree Joy

2011-11-25T03:00:00.002-05:00

A quick card using Penny Black’s cute holiday tree from “Around Christmas”.

In a previous post “here” I eliminated the tree from the design, while today’s card features the tree as the main focal point.

How to make this card:

Step 1: Create a 3 x 4 ¼-inch top-folded card.

Step 2: Score two horizontal lines on the bottom of a 2 5/8 x 4 7/8-inch piece of white cardstock and mat with a 2 ¾ x 4-inch piece of brown cardstock. Attach the matted layers to the front of the card with dimensional foam.

Step 3: Stamp Around Christmas in black pigment ink and heat emboss with clear powder. Color the tree and trim.

Step 4: Create a banner from white cardstock and stamp the sentiment in black ink. Attach behind the star.

Step 5: Using dimensional foam, attach the tree to the front of the prepared card and accent with gems and glitter.

Have a wonderful weekend,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Around Christmas 40-079, Christmas Express 30-080

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Sticks & Stones 02-003

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

Copic Markers

Mark Richards: Sticker Elements

Ranger: X-Mas Red Stickles, Star Dust Stickles

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Clear Embossing Powder

Helpful or Mischievous?

2011-11-23T03:00:00.003-05:00

Whether you are just beginning to stamp or may want to revisit some favorite basics, today’s card demonstrates how you can create a fun (and fast) greeting.

Is this feline helping hang the ornament or mischievously playful?

Here are 4 basic steps that make a great “recipe” for creating a fast card as well as a few optional features that were sprinkled in for today’s version.

Step 1: Create a 3 x 5 top-folded card from spring meadow cardstock.

Optional Feature: Add a 1 ¼ x 3-inch piece of rose garden cardstock and a 1/8 x 3-inch piece of white cardstock to the top of the card as shown.

Step 2: Stamp the sentiment and cat in black ink on a 2 ¾ x 4 ¾-inch piece of white cardstock and color.

Optional Feature: Stamp the cat on watercolor paper and heat emboss the black pigment ink with clear powder. Water color the image and trim. Do not worry about trimming around the whiskers. Using the previous stamped image for alignment, adhere the trimmed image directly on top.

Optional Feature II: Create a dot border with a fine-tipped black pen.

Step 3: Adhere the stamped artwork on the white cardstock to the front of the prepared card with double-sided adhesive.

Optional Feature: Adhere the artwork using dimensional foam.

Step 4: Tie a piece of ribbon in a small bow, add a piece of string and attach to the front of the card.

Simple, fast and fun!

Have a great day,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Let It Snow 30-086, Christmas Friends 30-084

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Rose Garden 14-003, Spring Meadow 06-002

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

Canson: Watercolor Paper

Offray: Red Swiss Dot Grosgrain Ribbon

Tombow: Dual Brush Pens – 026, 055, 133, 173, 195, 703, 761, 899, 947, 977, 985, N45, N75

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine Ink, Clear Embossing Powder

A Simple Note

2011-11-21T03:01:00.003-05:00

A quick little card combining Penny Black’s Caroling Penguins and Spellbinder’s Flower Pot die cuts.

Card Size: 1 5/8 x 2 5/8

A metronome was the inspiration to invert the flower pot die-cut to create a stage. The background was stamped with Music Background in Sugarcane VersaMagic and the same ink was used to add a bit of distressing. The smaller lip of the pot was trimmed from a second die-cut for the elevated sentiment base. A third die-cut was scored ½ inch from the top and attached to the back of the artwork to form a tent card.

In addition to the elevated stage, added dimension was created by layering another beak and the hands holding the sheet music.

Enjoy the fun and exciting announcements "here" on the Penny Black blog today.

Thank you for visiting,
Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Caroling Penguins 2528K, Music Background 2025M, Tiny Wishes 30-026

Copic Markers

Spellbinders: Flower Pots Nestabilities (S5-060)

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Sugarcane VersaMagic, Clear Embossing Powder

Elegant Joy (With Ironing)

2011-11-18T03:00:00.003-05:00

The resist technique used on today’s card involves ironing!

The ornate pattern was stamped on watercolor paper with VersaMark Watermark Ink and heat embossed with clear powder. Pear Tart and Rhubarb Stalk Fireworks Craft Inks were randomly sprayed over the design. The piece was then placed between two clean sheets of Mead newsprint paper. A hot iron was used to apply heat and melt the embossed powder into the newsprint paper. The newsprint was adjusted to a clean section and the process was repeated. When all the embossing had been melted/lifted from the piece, the white cardstock that is revealed is in the form of the stamped design.

The Fireworks Craft Ink Spray has sparkly and shimmery appearance. The metallic border is a punched border from heavy-weight cardstock that was pounced with Delicata Golden Glitz Ink.

The soft background is Poinsettia Script stamped in Wheat VersaMagic Ink on white cardstock. The greeting was stamped on a circle die cut and layered onto a ribbon tag die cut. To keep the project balanced, dimensional foam was used to elevate these pieces, but kept at a lower level than the elevated pieces at the top.

Thank you for stopping by and have a wonderful weekend.

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: A Merry Little Christmas 4209K, Poinsettia Script 40-085, Christmas Treasures 30-085

Fiskars: Upper Crest Border Punch

Lasting Impressions: White Matte Finish Brads

Spellbinders: Ribbon Tag Trio Three S4-323, Standard Circles Large Nestabilities S4-114

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Wheat VersaMagic, Delicata Golden Glitz Ink, Pear Tart Fireworks, Rhubarb Stalk Fireworks, Clear Embossing Powder

Focus on Elegance

2011-11-16T03:00:00.003-05:00

All this week Penny Black will be showcasing elegant designs and I am excited to share my interpretation as I host their blog today.

To begin, a small piece of ivory cardstock was edged with Delicata Golden Glitz ink, wrapped with ribbon, embellished with brads and attached to the card base with dimensional foam.

Next, the holly and berries were stamped on white cardstock with VersaMark Watermark ink and heat embossed in gold. The image was trimmed with a slight white border which was then colored with green Copics. The leaves and berries were glittered and the piece was set aside to dry.

To finish, the trimmed embellishment was nestled between a filigree foil paper die-cut distressed with Shabby Shutters and a white cardstock die-cut stamped with the sentiment.

TIP: When working with light-weight decorative papers, I like to reinforce them with another die-cut from white cardstock. This adds thickness and it is easier to elevate with dimensional foam.

Have a wonderful and elegant day,
Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: A Merry Little Christmas 4209K, Winter Wonders 30-087

Penny Black Paper: Filigree Foil White 60-006

Copic Markers: G07, G28

Ranger: Golden Rod Stickles, X-Mas Red Stickles, Shabby Shutters Distress Ink

Spellbinders: Curved Rectangles Mega Nestabilities S5-006, Labels Eighteen S4-310

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, VersaMark Watermark Ink, Gold Embossing Powder

A Layered Christmas Tree

2011-11-14T03:00:00.001-05:00

This is a fun way to use solid stamp images.....

Here are some additional pictures that you can use as reference when reading the detailed instructions provided at the end of this post......

Stamping the tree with VersaMark Watermark Ink on coordinating hues of green cardstock and embossing with clear powder creates great segments that can be trimmed and layered.

Here you can see the segments layered on the base image.

An altered button.

Background stamping adds a decorative touch to
the card base and die-cut label.

Instructions:

Create a 2 ½ x 4 ½-inch card from rose garden cardstock. Apply crimson red ink to the front of the card. Stamp …A Merry Little Christmas across the front in crimson red.
Distress the edges of the die cut with Sugarcane VersaMagic. Stamp snowflakes on the outer edge first with Sugarcane VersaMagic then again with Sahara Sand VersaMagic.
Stamp the base of the tree and the sentiment in black and heat emboss with clear powder. Attach the stamped die cut to the front of the prepared card with dimensional foam.
Stamp the tree on rose garden, light spring meadow, medium spring meadow and dark spring meadow with VersaMark Watermark ink and heat emboss with clear powder. Trim the full red tree and the segments of the green trees. (Tip: Use different sized hole punches to create the ornamental circles on two of the green segments.)
Adhere various shades of the trimmed green tree segments to the red base. Add a gem to the top of the tree.
Attach the tree to the front of the card with decorative foam. Accent with red glitter.
Alter a red button by applying VersaMark Watermark ink to the top and heat embossing with Aged Mahogany Distress Powder. Distress a portion of white ribbon with Sugarcane VersaMagic ink and thread through the button holes. Scuff the edges of the button with a white gel pen. Attach to the card.

The great part of this project is that you will have extra tree segments from which you can make more cards!

Your visits to my studio are greatly appreciated.

Thank you so much!

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: …A Merry Little Christmas 4209K, Let It Snow 30-086, Christmas With Mimi 30-079

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Rose Garden 14-003, Spring Meadow 06-001, 06-002, 06-003

Tsukineko: Crimson Red VersaFine, Onyx Black VersaFine, VersaMark Watermark Ink, Sugarcane VersaMagic, Sahara Sand VersaMagic, Sponge Dauber

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

Kaiser Craft: Yellow Gem

Ranger: X-Mas Red Stickles, Aged Mahogany Distress Embossing Powder

Sakura: White Gel Pen

Sizzix: Tim Holtz Alterations Mover & Shapers / Bigz Die

Offray: 1/8” Wide White Satin Ribbon

Red Button

Flip It

2011-11-11T03:00:00.002-05:00

Today’s stamped image was flipped to change the movement of Little Elf Finn from a swinging Christmas design to a floating birthday greeting.

This is the original image I started with.....

Little Elf Finn (40-088)

The ornament was flipped to create a balloon and the hat was redesigned with a hand drawn feather.

The sky background is a Labels Seventeen die-cut from white cardstock that was left in the Nestability and masked with clouds. Bahama Blue Memento ink was then applied on top. Once the masks were removed, light gray shading was added to the clouds.

The base of the card is a slightly larger Labels Seventeen die-cut from Clear Skies cardstock that was trimmed on the top and sides. Twinkling was stamped with VersaMark Watermark ink and heat embossed with white powder. To soft the starkness of the white embossing, it was distressed with Night Sky VersaMagic ink.

Have fun "flipping" your stamps,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Little Elf Finn 40-088, Twinkling 40-083, Happy Birthday 2928C

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Clear Skies 10-003

Copic Markers

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, VersaMark Watermark Ink, Bahama Blue Memento, Night Sky VersaMagic, Clear Embossing Powder, White Embossing Powder

Other: Dimensional Foam (3M Scotch & EK Success)

Holiday Gift Card Holder

2011-11-09T03:00:00.002-05:00

Taking your favorite holiday greeting card and transforming it into a gift card holder is as easy as adding a tiny pocket created with a folded die-cut!

Front View

Inside View

The main panel of the card was stamped with Adorned Tree in Spanish Moss ink and heat embossed with clear powder. A circular mask was positioned to the right and Vintage Photo Distress ink was applied to the surface. After removing the mask, the sentiment was stamped.

The stamped artwork was then layered on a white piece of cardstock to add thickness and provide a thin reveal on the left edge. Hand-pierced holes in alternating increments were created along the edge to provide a stitching grid for the zigzag hand sewing. Once the green and red glitter glues dried, the panel was attached to the front of the card with dimensional foam.

To eliminate trimming by hand, the rounded curves on the card were achieved by placing one end of the cardstock under the cutting tooth of the die and leaving the opposite end positioned over the top. The paper/die was then run through the die-cutting machine only slightly past the curved end to be trimmed then reversed out. If the image is processed too far into the machine, a crease will be embossed on the opposite end.

The inside pocket is a Reverse Wonky Rectangle die-cut from red cardstock that was folded lengthwise. The pattern was stamped in Crimson Red. The same ink and a dauber were used for additional distressing.

Working in a small space did not allow the pocket to be large enough to seal and secure the sides with glue. This was remedied by wrapping the stamped ribbon band around the sides and gluing it to the inside back.

Faux stitching with a black pen and stamped “to” and “from” sentiments were the final touches before tucking a little surprise into the pocket.

Be sure to visit the Penny Black Blog all this week for more gift card holder ideas created by the design team.

Thank you for visiting,
Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Adorned Tree 4201K, A Merry Little Christmas 4209K, A Merry Christmas 2764F, Air Mail 30-072, Joy of Winter 20-013

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Rose Garden 14-003

American Crafts: Red Sheer Ribbon

Copic Markers: G07, G09, G28
Judi Kins: Eclipse Tape

Ranger: Vintage Photo Distress Ink, Lime Green Stickles, X-Mas Red Stickles

Sakura: Black Micron Pen

Spellbinders: Reverse Wonky Rectangles, Standard Circles

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Crimson Red VersaFine, Spanish Moss VersaFine, Clear Embossing Powder, Sponge Dauber

Other: Heavy-Weight Thread, Dimensional Foam

Personalized Thanksgiving Greetings

2011-11-07T03:00:00.003-05:00

These little tent cards were created as place settings for the holiday table. Since some of our relatives will be traveling during this time of gratitude, a few will be mailed as greeting cards.

Instructions:

Create a 2 x 3 top-folded card from white cardstock. (Optional: Personalize with a computer generated font.) Distress the edges with Antique Linen and Vintage Photo.
Stamp branches with Vintage Photo on a 1 ¾ x 2 ¼-inch piece of tan cardstock.
Stamp the sentiment on a 3/8 x 3-inch piece of white cardstock with black ink and heat emboss with clear powder. Distress the edges then wrap around the lower portion of the stamped tan cardstock. Secure the ends on the back and slip a small piece of dimensional foam under the band. (Tip: I find that inserting the dimensional foam after the sentiment has been secured allows me to obtain a tight crisp fold around the edges when wrapping the band.)
Using dimensional foam, attach the tan cardstock piece created in the previous step to the front of the prepared card.
Stamp the bird on watercolor paper with black ink and heat emboss with clear powder. Water color the image and then trim. Attach to the card with dimensional foam.

May each and every one of your days be blessed with gratitude and happiness.

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Berry Red, Snow White 4202L, Happy Thanksgiving 40-072, In A Pear Tree 30-035

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Sticks & Stones 02-002

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

Ranger: Antique Linen Distress Ink, Vintage Photo Distress Ink

Tombow Markers: 055, 856, 899, 985

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Clear Embossing Powder

Two from One

2011-11-04T03:00:00.001-04:00

While working with Little Elf Present in my previous post, I created two more cards using elements within the image.

One of the many reasons I enjoy stamping is that there is so much you can do with just one stamp!

Penny Black's Little Elf Present (40-090) was used for the elements in today's cards.

The little present is perfect for a birthday greeting. The decorative white die-cut was left in the die and Pixie Dust ink was shaded onto the piece and then the star bursts were stamped.

I stacked two presents with dimensional foam to create the focal embellishment. The swirls on the gift were accented with a sparkle gel pen.

For the second card, I used the elf's fanciful legs.

A portion of a die-cut was fashioned to resemble a skirt. The pattern was stamped with Spanish Moss ink and accented with black dots. There was a bit of cosmetic surgery to lengthen the legs which I did freehand.

I made this custom coordinating box envelope with an acetate window for the card.

To personalized the piece, I will add the recipient's name to the "skirt" lid with die-cut letters and stamp a sentiment under the magnetic flap.

I hope you enjoy finding hidden treasures in your stamp images!

Happy Friday,
Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Little Elf Present 40-090, Sentiments 30-025, Warm Wishes 40-074, Hugs 30-020

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Coral Reef 15-003, Blue Lagoon 09-002, Spring Meadow 06-001

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape

American Crafts: Ribbon

Avery: Jewelry Tag

Copic Markers

Spellbinders: Labels Seventeen, Labels Eighteen

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Spanish Moss VersaFine, Pixie Dust VersaMagic, Clear Embossing Powder

An Elf Present

2011-11-02T03:00:00.002-04:00

I just love this new stamp from Penny Black called Little Elf Present! It is one of those images that you just can’t wait to color.

Wouldn’t he be fun to alter for a birthday card too?!

This is a peek at the inside where I created a small pocket where I can tuck in a gift card. For photographic purposes, I snuggled in a temporary gift to illustrate the pocket area. I also left plenty of room above the insert to add a sentiment. I usually leave the sentiments on the inside for last so I can personalize the greeting toward the recipient.

Zooming in you can see the gold edging on the dark green window mat and the sparkle gel pen used for accenting his outfit, present and tag.

I find that using different thicknesses of dimensional foam to vary the levels of the project adds a nice visual contrast. To achieve even more combinations, I “double up” foam pieces.

I cut my framed windows by hand, but you could also use pre-cut frames or create them with a die-cutting system.

If you would like to jump in and create a frame card, here are my steps and measurements for today’s project.

Instructions:

Pre-cut the following:

4 3/8” square card from red cardstock (This can be a left-sided or top-folded card.)

4” square white cardstock

4” square dark olive frame (with a 2 ¾” window removed leaving 5/8” sides)

4” square light olive frame (with a 3” window removed leaving 1/2” sides)

Preparing the pieces:

Rub crimson red ink on the front of the card to deepen the tone. Edge all four sides with Delicata Golden Glitz ink.

Create a line of black dots on the white cardstock ¾” from the bottom.

Edge the inside of the dark olive frame with Delicata Golden Glitz ink.

Stamp dot border on the light olive frame with Spanish moss ink and then distress with additional Spanish moss. (Tip: To have the pattern appear to fade out toward the perimeter of the frame, stamp the pattern first then distress.) Add white gel pen dots if desired.

Assembly:

Center and adhere the white cardstock to the prepared card base with adhesive.

Align the dark olive frame over the white cardstock and adhere with 1/8” dimensional foam.

Align the light olive frame over the dark olive frame and adhere with 1/16” dimensional foam.

Stamp the elf with black pigment ink and heat emboss with clear powder on white cardstock. Color and trim. Accent hat, pom pom, boots, cuffs, skirt, tag and present with sparkle gel pen. (Gift tag stamped separately and attached with black thread.)

Attach the oh so cute elf with 1/8” dimensional foam to the outer frame.

Inside Gift Pocket:

Rub crimson red ink on a 1 ¼ x 4 3/8-inch piece of red cardstock.

Stamp border in black on white cardstock and heat emboss with clear powder. Color and trim to 4 3/8” in length.

Attach the border to the top of the red cardstock strip. Apply adhesive to the two sides and bottom of the strip and adhere to the inside of the card.

The other feature I like about framed cards, is that it gives you the option to put your artwork either on top or underneath the window. Great way to give photos too!

On Friday, I will be posting two more cards made from this same stamp!

With appreciation for all your visits and comments,

Elizabeth

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Little Elf Present 40-090, Fairy Christmas 30-082, Halloween Treats 30-078

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Olive Grove 04-001, 04-003; Rose Garden 14-003

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Spanish Moss VersaFine, Crimson Red VersaFine, Delicata Golden Glitz

Copic Markers

Dimensional Foam: 3M Scotch (1/16”), 3D Dots EK Success (1/8”)

Sakura: Stardust Gel Pen, .01 Black Micron Pen

Other: Ruler, Craft Knife, Cutting Mat

The Bare Bones

2011-10-31T03:00:00.018-04:00

This 2-inch square miniature was a personal challenge. I couldn’t resist the temptation of “fussy” cutting the skeleton inside the small window.

I love the contrast of white and black and used them for my artwork and mat layers. I threw in a little gray for shading and a pop of color with the candy corn.

All these fun, spooky images are part Penny Black’s “Halloween Treats”.

The sentiment included in the set is curved, but I straightened it into a horizontal phrase to fit the card design. To make the alteration, I applied temporary adhesive to my acrylic block. When I applied the sentiment over the adhesive I twisted it slightly so it would be positioned linear.

A miniature “bare bones” card!

For more Halloween delight, have fun checking out CardMaker's special holiday post "here" (beginning at 8 am EST).

Happy Halloween,

Eliza-boo!

Supplies:

Penny Black Stamps: Halloween Treats 30-078

Penny Black Mix & Match Cardstock: Storm 01-003

Copic Markers

Tsukineko: Onyx Black VersaFine, Clear Embossing Powder

3M Scotch: Dimensional Foam Tape