Last month I saw a cute little card on one of the blogs I follow. So I decided to see if I could make one based on the design. First I located the picture (Cuddle Bun Bunnies from Whimsy Stamps) and saved it. Then I printed it out in the size I wanted (2 3/4 x 3 1/4 inches) on plain white paper. If I had had vellum, I would have used that. I say "woulda, coulda, shoulda" a LOT. Next, I colored the picture with my watercolors. The original design used "Copic pens". I do not own any artist drawing pens or markers. I have some Zig calligraphy markers and some highlighters - those turned out comical. So I went with plan B - the watercolors. I DID look at the Copic pens online - sheesh - expensive. All the reviews rave about them, so I am certain they are well worth the price if one does a lot of coloring. Since I am a "dabbler", I think I will use what I have - watercolors.My basic card is a 4 1/2 x 5 1/2 plain white card from a 50 card stack that comes with envelopes. Next, I got out my Cricut Design Studio (first I tried to work on my Gypsy - *sigh* - I have a high learning curve, so I went back to CDS) and made some frames (Storybook Cartridge) on it to fit around the picture, including a basic rectangle (cut on my regular paper cutter without a Cricut pattern). I made one frame using the "shadow" feature, so it is fatter and fits nicely behind the first frame. I also used the Lyrical Letters cartridge to make the phrase "Happy Easter". I welded the 2 words so I didn't have to move each letter separately.
Once the paint was dry on my picture, I glued it to the rectangle, then the two frames. I used Tim Holtz (got it on sale at Hobby Lobby) Distressed Ink honey and sky blue to color up the front and inside of the card some. I attached the picture to the front of the card, added some beads, glued the sentiment inside, and the card was ready to go. Hopefully my daughter will hang on to it - my grand daughter is only 2 1/2 years old! It was fun to make, though, and I enjoyed learning how to use and combine several different techniques, textures and media for the first time.
I hope you enjoyed my little card-making adventure. Have a blessed Easter and remember the reason we celebrate - He Is Risen!
