Saturday, June 7, 2008

Beaded Fresh Cut Notes

Just 12 inches of 28 gauge wire, a small blossom from the Pretties Kit, an Olive Bling Brad and Stampin' Up!'s blue beads decorate this Fresh Cut note that was originally destined for the recycle bin. I had unfortunately stamped the main stamp crooked, so I cut the edges off the die-cut note and used it as a layer on my card. I'm waiting to stamp a sentiment since I'm not sure to whom I will send it yet.

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Color.....and the 5 W's!

Odd title?

Well, I took a Journalism class before I decided to major in Microbiology at Oklahoma State, so the 5 Ws do come to mind when planning a card.

Who?

To whom will I send/give this card? We choose colors based on whether the recipient is a male or female. Age can certainly play a role as well. You'll notice in my previous post below that there ~is~ pink on my dad's Father's Day card....of course!....on his granddaughters' dresses. :) We typically think of pastels for little girls, but I might send a pink marshmallow creation to an adult lady....it just depends on situation.

What?

What type of card are you sending? Light Pink or Blue seem to say, "Baby", and one probably wouldn't use cotton candy colors to convey condolences. It is helpful to consider the purpose of your card when choosing colors.


When?

I don't have to mention that seasons affect color choices. Glorious Green and Real Red are one idea of Christmas colors, but any number of choices are available-- even pink and green! (I used Mellow Moss, Very Vanilla and Pretty in Pink for my Christmas cards last year.) Try to imagine something creative and surprising for your recipient while staying within accepted norms.....or not staying within norms!

Where?

If the card or project is for a wedding or shower, it is fun to coordinate with the chosen colors if you know them. A Bride might even want to add your card to a scrapbook. Custom color choices allow much more freedom than buying at the store, and embossing, vellum and sophisticated ribbon add perfectly elegant details. I think the diecut notecards with the Fresh Cuts set available from Stampin' Up! this month also create a sophisticated card.

Why?

Why are you designing and sending a handstamped card? Why are you creating a scrapbook page or 3-Dimensional project? If you are like me, you are crafting something for this person or about this person because they are a friend or loved one. Allowing your feelings for them to show in your work is a challenge worth taking!