Hello there my friends
Today’s card features Altenew’s beautiful Handpicked Bouquet set. I made a card a few weeks or so ago with this set, but couldn’t resist giving it another outing. And I used more traditional colours this time.
I created this card with a few special friends in mind. January was an extremely difficult month for me with some serious health issues in my family. A few friends in particular were incredibly supportive and kept me going day after day when things looked pretty bleak and I really had no idea what life was going to look like over the coming months. I am sure you have all been there. It can be scary, at times utterly terrifying. And hard to focus on anything else, never mind sleep or make cards. But on the day that life took a bit of a better turn for us all, I picked this pretty set up and stamped away with them in mind.
I stamped the main floral image onto Neenah 80lb and used a variety of Altenew inks to create the layered effect. I used Lavender Fields, Frosted Pink, Coral Berry, Ruby Red, Forest Glades, Frayed Leaf and Evergreen. I did use the MISTI, but you don’t have to, I just don’t own a big enough acrylic block.
The coordinating die was used to cut the two images out and then I played around with their placement for a while. You wouldn’t believe how many permutations I went through before deciding on my final positioning :). Next came the choice of background – it’s not always easy making cards is it!? There are lots of choices and the desire to not completely mess up the card is strong!
In the end, I found a piece of pink cardstock (no idea where it’s from) that I thought might provide the perfect backdrop. Normally I would ink blend or watercolour a panel but quite honestly, I really couldn’t be bothered, I was tired. Sleep had been scarce for almost a month. So I took an easy way out. It doesn’t matter, do what makes you happy at the time.
I matted the pink card onto the base card with DST and then adhered my two bouquets on top with wet adhesive, trimming off any excess from the sides. The sentiment is one from the set and was simply white heat embossed on black cardstock, trimmed with the fabulous SSS Sentiment Label Dies and popped up with foam tape. Some random pink and sparkling clear sequins from Lucy’s Cards added the little bit of bling I find hard to resist.
That finishes my card for today and I hope that you like it. Whilst things have definitely become easier, we still have some challenges to face in the family over the next few years. I will be back on Monday with the start of the Clearly Besotted March release teasers but in the meantime, have a wonderful weekend everyone and happy crafting!
Ruth says
It’s beautiful and very kind of you because people give support without wanting anything in return. I’m so glad that things have worked out so well – these things are never easy, especially when you just don’t know what is going to happen. Sending a hug. Love the pink – and I am so not a fan of pink really! xx
Cindyellen Robinson says
Lisa, your card is beautiful as always. More importantly, I hope all is well/better with your family, that sleep has returned to your and your spouse, and that you can stop worrying about all those you love. We are the least of your concern. The pink card is perfect. You are amazing that you managed a card at all. Sometimes crafting/art is what we need to do as meditation time/prayer time/soul time. We will keep you and yours in our prayers on this side of the Atlantic.
Andrea Hastilow says
Lisa your card is awesome, so pretty & elegant. Thank you for sharing x
I hope that life settles down in your family & things increase in ease of health. I fully understand challenges & difficulties as you know & send all my best to you & family. As supports we all understand that family come first so take the time you need , we will all support you & be here . Take care x
Darnell Jean Knauss says
You are so masterful with Altenew layering stamps and with color, Lisa! This is sensational! I’m so sorry to hear you’ve been going through a scary time and so relieved that things took a turn for the better. Huge hugs, Darnell