In this class we learned how to draw inspiration from objects around us, and how to utilize a color wheel when we need a creative boost.

Card 1

Card 1 is not a card at all. Instead I chose to make gift tags inspired by my Christmas tree. I have always loved the non-traditional Blue, silver and pearl ornaments I first purchased back in 2005, for my husband and I’s first Christmas. However, my color scheme is not always easy to find in decor or wrapping.

I have a confession… I am not a member of the blue flower fan club. I don’t gravitate towards them when creating despite having a few blue poinsettias displayed on my tree. I went against my usual rule for these tags. I began with Altenew’s Build-a-Flower Poinsettia Layering Stamp and Die Set. I chose momento dew drop ink in summer sky for all the poinsettia layers. I began with the base, then the mid detail stamp, and finally the fine detail. I skipped the outline layer entirely as I did not want harsh lines. instead, I added detail with a colored pencil and white gel pen. I used Altenew’s Crisp Dye Ink in Butternut and Pumpkin Pie for the center of the flower. I added Stickles in diamond over the center for a bit of sparkle.

I cut tag shapes with Altenew’s Terrific Tags Die Set. I used blue card stock for the larger portion and white for the smaller. I stamped “For You” included with the poinsettia stamp set in summer sky. I cut thin silver glitter card stock strips and used them to border the white tag. I then attached the white tag to the blue with foam tape. I attached the poinsettia with double-sided tape and foam tape where needed. For a final touch of sparkle, I added iridescent beads. Finally, I added a white satin ribbon to hang my tags onto wrapped gifts.

Card 2

I created a second also drawn from inspiration. While shopping for blue wrapping paper, I came across luxury black wrapping paper rolls. Red and yellow, or in this case, gold, are complimentary and part of a triad in the color wheel.

I began by using Altenew’s Slim Botanical 3D Embossing Folder and white card stock. Next, I cut my embossed paper with a tag shape from Altenew’s Terrific tags. Next, I added black foam tape to the back and set it aside. I then taped Altenew’s Leaves and Berries Stencil onto black card stock and blended watermark ink over the stencil. Once dry, I attached the embossed tag onto the right side of the black card stock. Next, I cut red and red glitter card stock into strips and used double-sided tape to attach them to the card. Next, I cut “Joy” in matte gold foil card stock and used foam tape to attach the letter over the red strips.