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When I first ventured into the world of card making blogs, the ones I followed were mostly geared to those who used the Cricut. I learned a lot about my machine and made a number of "cute" and layered cards. One by one, some of those bloggers began to veer off into other areas that didn't appeal to me. Through one of those blogs I must have become aware of some of the sketch challenges and as I explored their galleries, other card makers and challenges came to my attention. I followed one and then another and the ball kept rolling - more challenges, more friends to follow.
I learned a lot about different styles in card making but have yet to decide what my style is. There are some friends that the minute you see the card, you know who made it. Mine are all over the place. I do know that I
1) don't make cards that need a sentiment or theme I would never send to anyone,
2) don't make cards with big bows, three dimensional flowers, etc because everything has to be mailed
3) rarely make one layer cards because I don't have the stamps
In other words, I'm a practical gal who loves mixing prints (my quilting background is responsible for this I'm sure) and distress inking (I'm a rustic lover). In a world where a lot of challenges call for Clean and Simple, my loves don't often fit. That doesn't mean I don't like and make CAS cards. They are wonderful and some friends have a real talent for them. I'm just glad that there are challenges and inspiration out there for whatever your style.
I'm also extremely grateful for this community of people who take the time to comment on each others blogs, share personal stories, and offer support and encouragement. While I may never meet you in person, I want you to know how much you all mean to me. I look forward every day to reading your posts and seeing what marvelous cards your talents have created.
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I've rambled enough. Here's the challenge at Curtain Call and my card.
Remember I said I liked Distress Inking? Here it is with a PTI die, Clearly Besotted sentiment and HA background stamp.
Thanks for stopping by to visit. That's "Thanks" with a capital T!
15 comments:
It is a pretty amazing community isn't it? So many supportive people and so much to learn! And I love that I can learn things and find inspiration from everyone's creations whether we have the same style or not.
As for you card - it's gorgeous! I love that HA background and you've rocked the Distress inks!
You know yourself well - make what you like and what makes you happy. That's what it's all about! I love the warmth of this card - it feels like glowing embers to me.
Such a wonderful community, you are right. It has been interesting learning about your crafting journey and about your style. I have to tell you that I never really noticed that you didn't stamp much, until you said something. I have always appreciated your cards--they are so well designed that they always 'work' without making me think about what you did or did not use. Make sense? (P.S--it's a compliment) This card is especially warm.
I feel very blessed to be part of this community and to have "met" people like you through it. I love hearing your thoughts Bobby and I smiled when you don't make cards that won't be sent. My stash is rarely full as I love to send my cards. Your distress inking on your card is gorgeous! xoxo
Like you I don't make cards for "no reason". There's always a person in mind when I hit the craft room. I will admit to making some cards with layers or 3-D elements, but only if I can hand deliver them, or if they fit into a box along with a gift. Your card here is beautiful. I think you've nailed the colors and feel of the mittens perfectly, and taken it to a new level. Great card Bobby. Bev
Thanks, Joyce.
Kindred spirits. :) Thanks, Bev.
I'm glad you enjoy sending the lovely cards you make, Lynn. I gave some to my daughter as a Christmas gift one year and she wanted to save them all.
Thanks, Ardyth. I never thought of glowing embers but then you see things other don't and that's why you are such a successful card maker.
Thanks so much, Jen.
Well, I'm not sure which blogger dropped the bread crumbs, but I'm glad they led you to this community. It wouldn't be the same without you! Always love reading thoughtful posts like this. And neat how your card looks exactly like the insides of the mittens in the photo!
Thanks for the rest of the story. I find I'm quite like you in some areas. My style has changed over time and I often start thinking in one style and finish doing something entirely different. Love the journey. And your blog. Looking forward to sharing 2014 with you.
As you know, I've had to miss a lot of visiting around Blogland over the holidays, but am I glad I took the time today to scroll back to where I caught up with you so I could enjoy your three-part history!! Well said, Bobby! It's a pleasure to have met you in my own journey.
I wonder if you would like to play around in the new challenge blog called The Card Concept that Ardyth is a part of and so many other card artists you know. It's really interesting how they are setting up these categories of styles which I think will help people identify their own style or step outside their personal comfort zone with styles.
BTW, your cards on these posts are fabulous, too. I know you said you think your style is not defined, but I'm pretty sure I'm getting to where I coud pick out a "Bobby" card! Keep on exploring and creating! Hugs, Darnell
Your card is gorgeous! I love the effect you created with your inking!
Thanks for sharing your story too. (I still have to read the first two parts...) I feel blessed that you are a good blogging friend who visits me so faithfully. And for what it's worth, I'm incredibly impressed with your CAS creations!! I've tried but REALLY struggle to not just keep piling things on!!
Keep trying, Kate. You can achieve a CAS design, too. Although I must admit, I still like to layer. There's a new challenge called Card Concepts that features a variety of styles. If you have time, try it out.
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