Summer picnics are just so much fun - now if only summer would arrive here in Seattle! I kid you not when I tell you that at many Fourth of July events here in Seattle we must bundle up in our winter clothings. So here is to hoping that this year we once again get that magical day on which to celebrate our freedom.
To create this month's Stamp of the Month packet I decided to use this awesome Picnic stamp, but once I started creating there were a couple of other stamps that coordinated so perfectly that I just went with it and elected to put three of the Lockhart new stamps, (picnic, IB watermelon and summer days) in this month's kit. They have been flying out the door so please know that if you click on the link above and get a funny message that says this item is not to be found, we have currently run out. Please know that we have ordered more and will be restocking as quickly as possible.
To begin cut an 8 1/2" x 11" piece of Holly Berry cardstock lengthwise to 4 1/4" x 11".
Fold cardstock as indicated above.
Using my favorite method of coloring, a blend of Copic Markers and Prismacolor Color Pencils, I colored the image stamped using Adirondack Pitch Black Ink on Neenah Classic Crest, Solar White cardstock. Begin with light colors of Copic Sketch markers (R14, B41, YG00, Y21 Special Mix).
Continue to add depth and layers of color by using the following colors of Prismacolor Color Pencils: Powder Blue, Denim Blue, Copenhagen Blue, GingerRoot, Sand, Goldenrod, Limepeel, Dark Green, Process Red, Scarlet Lake and Crimson Lake. I work from light to dark with my Prismacolors as well as Copics. To create a "sunny window" effect inside the frame I adding additional layers of color in the corners, leaving a brighter spot directly behind the image - almost like a light source is directly behind the grouping.
Finish the coloring portion of this project by adding Black Copic marker and Clear Glossy Glaze pen to the watermelon seeds. I also added the glossy detail to the blueberries and the flagpole. Add a little Stardust Glitter pen pizzaz to the flowers, flagpole, watermelon rind and piecrust. It is incredible how these little details can add so much to your final image.
I really wish that these pictures didn't one dimensionalize things so much.
To add additional texture to the front "flap" of the cardfront I used a small piece of the Corner Flower piercing template. There are numerous options for adding dimension to this front strip - other pierced designs, brads - be creative. Then add your sentiment in the lower right hand corner of the card front.
This particular layout can be so versatile. I challenge you to create a card patterned after this layout and link it in the comments section below.
One of the challenges of creating 4 1/4" square cards is the type of envelope they fit in, as well, more postage is required. My buddy Julie shared an idea with me some time back that I thought was pure genius - it was resizing a regular envelope to hold these adorable cards. I believe that she used adhesive and vellum for her design - my memory is failing me at the moment! I decided to use my handy dandy little Janome sewing machine to create the perfect sized "pocket". You could also sew a seam across the bottom to create an envelope for a 3 1/2" square card. As you can see in the photo at the top of the page I stamped the IB Watermelon up the side to create some added interest on the envelope front.
You girls are GREAT guessers Ü You are right - June has a Friday the 13th and it is the only one this year! We would like to thank you all so much for your support over this past year by offering you Version 3 of this celebration. On Friday, June 13 we will once again have a special promotion of 13% off of all products in our store for 13 hours beginning at 6:00am Pacific Savings Time (on the East Coast that means it will be 9:00am). Watch for more updates or sign up for our newsletter (scroll to the bottom of the home page) to receive the special code you will need for this special celebration!
Great card and techniques! I always learn something when I visit your blog - Thanks for sharing with us.
Posted by: Stefanie | June 07, 2008 at 07:38 AM
What a great card fold and awesome SOTM packet, Ellen . . . wonderful new stamps!
Posted by: Sharon Harnist | June 06, 2008 at 01:08 PM
Oh, goody. A sale! Hope you have some more of these cuties by the 13th! Love the layout and folds on this card. Gonna have to give it a try. TYFS
Posted by: kathynruss | June 06, 2008 at 05:51 AM
Wahoo! I love it when I'm right about a sale! My wishlist just took a huge leap with the new Lockhart releases! The SOTM example is so cute! Love the summery/patriotic feel to it!
Posted by: Beth | June 06, 2008 at 12:07 AM