4

To begin today’s project, I knew I wanted to start things out on one of my favorite small canvases.  An embossed rectangle that I created using our Stamper’s Select White Cardstock and Nestabilities! (The one shown here is from the SMALL Nestabilities Classic Rectangle set).

I then added the branch image, stamped in burgundy ink.  I just love the way this branch in configured.  I think it has such a nice flow to it.   An easy-going & natural flow.  Just makes me happy!

Next up is the 2nd of four overlays total in this set, flowers.  I created this stamp as a modern interpretation of the dogwood blossom.  I’ve always wanted a nice dogwood blossom branch to use for sympathy cards.  I just think that it is so appropriate.  (If you aren’t familiar with the legend behind the dogwood, you can read more about it HERE).  I stamped the flowers using rose red ink.

To add of an artistic touch the flowers, I applied droplets of water to each of the blossoms.  (For those of you that are familiar with my blog, this is a technique that I use often.)  Since the flowers are stamped in a dye ink (which is not waterproof) the water allows the flowers to "bleed", ending in a soft, watercolored look.  You can see the difference this technique makes by comparing the bottom blossoms to top ones.  I love the way this technique works with our Stamper’s Select White Cardstock.  IT is such a thick and durable cardstock that it doesn’t bow or pill when water is applied.  If you haven’t tried it out yet, I highly recommend it!

With a few more additions, I completed my card!  I added a small dot to the center of each flower while the paper was still wet.  I loved the way that the darker color bled into the petals.  It really helped to make the flowers pop from the page.  I used a "With Sympathy" stamp from this set.  I love the font combination used.  I think it really compliments that look & style of the branch nicely.  A little velvet ribbon & a pearl head pin provided the perfect finishing touches.

Before I end this post, I wanted to answer a question that many of you had about this set.  The branch used in our Take a Bough set is NOT interchangeable with this set.  The branch from Take a Bough is much bigger and would not coordinate with the overlays used in this set.  I hope that helps to clarify everything!!!!

SUPPLIES:

ink-Rose Red & Bravo Burgundy classic dye ink pads & chocolate chip marker

stamps- Out on a Limb by Papertrey Ink

paper- Stamper’s Select white cardstock from Papertrey, Bravo Burgandy & Rose Red cardstock by Stampin’ Up!

other- velvet ribbon from Making Memories, pearl pin from Offray (sewing section & Walmart or craft & hobby store), Water pen from EK Success.