Here you go…..today is the day that I will show you a stepped up version of yesterday card. I must admit sometimes I do feel that it is not a huge difference and I hope that I do not disappoint you all…I am very simple and basic but I do think that there are many ways that you can make some changes to make it look different!

Remember to think of your cards as "formulas"…if you see a card style that "speaks to you" stop and look at it, break it down to see if it is something do-able for you to make and then if you can see yourself making it now and in the future with different stamp sets than I suggest that you get a binder, take notes and sketch it!

When you look at the cards this weekend they basically have the same elements:

• Card stock
• Stamp Set and ink
• Speed Tools – (2) circle punches
• Bakers Twine

Now is the fun part to see that they really are similar and I think you would be happy with either one….they just use (2) different techniques and I can honestly say, they both are very basic and easy cards to make.

Do you have a favorite?

In a nut shell…FOR SATURDAY:

• The sentiment and mat was adhered to the top of the stamped part of the card.
• I did not double stamp the flower image and stamped the dots
• I added the loops (see below scoop) in the bakers twine behind the popped up piece.

FOR TODAY'S CARD:

• I used the 1 3/4" circle punch to punch out a hole in the stamped piece
• I used both the 1 3/4" & 2" punch to create a bermuda bay ring to go around the opening.
• I stamped the sentiment and popped it out and then adhered it flat to the bermuda bay piece.
• I made a simple bow and used glue dots to adhere
• I "double" stamped…the outline was like yesterday, in Pool Party but today a used Soft Sky and stamped it off once before stamping. The centers of the flowers ate "full strength" Bermuda Bay.

I am all about clean and crisp lines, using lots of paper (but remember….SAVE THE INSIDES of your paper if it is going to be all covered up…..you can take punches, framelits etc….WHY NOT)?

This effect -  seeing the ring of paper and then the sentiment below…it just adds a special touch and it is so easy. The best tip I can give you is to make sure that your circle punch is pushed all the way up and centered to the side….this way you will have a straight circle.

I am also all about speed tools….to me that includes out punches and framelits…I love both but a punch is so fast and easy. You can clearly see how they made this card come together in a snap!

Below is the outside of todays envelope….I just adore making the mailman smile and the way I look at it is – Your stamps are already "inky" so why not?

Below is a quick collage of tips and trick that might be useful for you! (click on it to make it larger) Please feel free to email me if you need further explanation or help!

This truly is a wonderful stamp set and I look forward to making many beautiful projects with it! Being that this is a photopolymer set…it does make it easier to see but the "key" about the way that the stamp set was designed was to be very "watercoloring look"  – so that means that…if you are "off" a bit – it is just fine!

I already have an idea for a future card…hmmmm – vellum??? This would be gorgeous. Enjoy your Sunday, I am going to be having a "date" with my computer…and my patient son – hopefully he can help me work through some "Susan issues"!

Hope you can find some "me" time! Until tomorrow.