First Copic Card

I got so involved with my new season TV shows last night...I forgot to post my first copic card. How cool is it that The Ghost Whisperer is now followed by Medium and the Numbers...I am in heaven.

Anyway, this is my first copic project. What they say is true...they are so easy to use and blend and I am so happy with them so far. Of course, I have soooo much I want to learn and I wish there was someplace that I could take a class (you know a real people class, not online) but can't find anywhere that offers it.

At a local art store, I bought a special pad of paper by Borden & Reiley called #234 Paris Bleedproof Paper for Pens (funny name). It is so smooth and takes the copic inks so nicely. But, I also ordered Gina K's Pure Luxury card stock, because so many of the brilliant copic ladies online recommend it. It wasn't too expensive...25 sheets for $6.95.

The image is a dingbat...you know I love those free dingbats!

Challenge #3

Well, we've waited a long time for tomorrow. We are going to Florida for our "Annual Family Cruise." Each year, our family gets together and takes a cruise out of Florida. It is truly the best quality time we have together...out on the ocean, no work, no place to go, no cell phones, no appointments...just us...and the casino, of course. I just love it!!

Here is my version of "Jazz it Up" the third challenge at the new blog dedicated to the cuttlebug...The Cuttlebug Spot . http://www.thecuttlebugspot.blogspot.com/ Check it out on Monday when Nilda uploads the challenge. Why not try this technique for yourself and upload your design.

Iused the swirls folder to emboss onto the black cardstock. Then I lightly rubbed white chalk over the raised swirls. I sprayed the cardstock with workable fixative. That keeps the chalk from rubbing off. Of course, you could always use clear acrylic sealer or hair spray.

See ya when we get back!

Cricut Class Halloween Layout

Here is a layout I created for a Ciricut project class I am giving next month. I teach many basic, beginner Cricut classes. My students also ask for project classes. I don't like to make them too difficult or intricate because most students are still in the learning phase.

I like to add some techniques like chalking, inking, etc. My students love to learn different ways of taking the plain cuts and giving them life. Here's a close up of the detailing techniques I used for this layout.

In order for the cuts to "pop" I always highlight the edges either with chalk or Prismacolor marker, warm grey 20%. Then I use a black Sakura Pigma Micron pen .01. on top of the highlight. For the black cuts, I use Ranger's white Inkssentials pen. This is the best white pen around IMHO.

For the bats, I use Sakura's Gelly Roll Stardust. This pen adds a subtle clear glitter to anything. I love this pen.
Feel free to leave me a comment or ask any questions. It's my pleasure to answer them!