Drive's Me Crazy!

For all you crafters out there, doesn't it drive you crazy when you see something that's mass-produced that costs more than what you could probably make it for? For example, greeting cards. I have to laugh almost every time someone gives me a card because they almost always apologize to me (!) that it's not one of mine, it's not as beautiful, it's not...

Paper: Bermuda Bay, Pool Party, Whisper White
Ink: VersaMark, Melon Mambo
Stamps: Ornament Keepsakes, Patterned Occasions (SAB 2013)
Tools: Big Shot, Cloudy Day TIEF, Ornament Framelits, Heat Tool,
Embossing Powder: Pool Party & Pewter
Accessories: Jewels, Baker's Twine

I'm shocked sometimes what people pay for cards! Yes, I always turn a card over to look. :) I recently received one for my birthday that was $7.99 +tax! It was nice, but it got me thinking about taking cards like that and recreating them Hofkissed style. Hence, the card I'm showing you today.

The card I received had a hot air balloon carrying a cupcake, so that's what I wanted to do too. I didn't have a hot air balloon, so I used the Ornament Keepsakes stamp set and coordinating Framelits. It was meant to be! I heat embossed with Pool Party on Pool Party card stock for a tone-on-tone look. The small cupcake from the SAB 2013 set worked perfectly and instead of drawing the ropes on for the balloon, I used Baker's Twine.

I'm really happy with how it came out. I've toyed with the idea of adding more. Thought about adding strips of silver glimmer paper or zig zags in Crushed Curry. Perhaps I will, but I'm also loving the single punch of colour!

Until next time, stay crafty!
Steph

For the Babes at Sunday Stamps

Kathya's got a great sketch challenge this week over at Sunday Stamps... perfect to get your creativity flowing!

 Paper: Pretty in Pink, Certainly Celery, Bashful Blue, Whisper White
Ink: Pretty in Pink, Certainly Celery, Bashful Blue, Basic Grey
Stamps: Patterned Occasions (SAB), That's the Ticket, Itty Bitty Banners
Tools: Big Shot, Perfect Polka Dots & Stripes TIEF's, Scallop Circle & 1-1/4" Circle & Ticket Duo Punches
Accessories: Pearls, Ribbon

When SU! announced their "Colour Refresh" last week, I thought that I should use up and showcase some of the retiring colours. These three are perfect for baby cards - soft & subtle! I played around a lot with texture and dimension. I popped up the elephant image and if you think the little pearl accents aren't SU!, think again! I coloured our pearls using Sharpies. :)

Check out what the rest of the wonderful design team has created and then post your design. We love seeing your creations. You have until Friday evening.

Until next time, stay crafty!
Steph