Flourishes is getting ready for their August release of new stamp sets and, as you’ll soon see, it truly celebrates these last days of summer. Gosh, it seems like our summer here is just getting started. It can’t be coming to a close already!
To celebrate the new release we’re starting things off with a challenge which could win you the entire new batch of stamp sets. Essentially it’s a color challenge – stamp in the shades of a beautiful sunset. It could be red and orange, or pink and purple. We have some gorgeous turquoise and magenta sunsets over the ocean here. This is not to say you have to create a sunset image on your card. All you have to do is combine sunset colors somehow. Be sure and link your creation on the Shades of Sunset Challenge post on the Newsletter, and if you post to an online gallery please use the Keyword FLLCAUG11.
I chose to create a golden coastal sunset using Forest of Trees and a quote from Around the Arbor.
- I started with Flourishes’ Classic White Cardstock and one of my Spellbinders die cut circles. The circle was held in place with removable double sided tape.
- I used wadded toilet paper to rub the entire panel with yellow ink first, then rubbed mustard ink inward from the edges. I left some yellow glow nearer the sun circle.
- I masked the upper edge to create the water line, which was done with cocoa ink, darker near the edges, and leaving a wavy open area for the sun’s reflection in the water.
- I then carefully removed the die cut sun circle and replaced it with a smaller circle. The next step was to rub more yellow ink around the smaller circle, then carefully remove that circle and finish with some soft sponging around the edges of the sun.
- Finally, I stamped the evergreen tree three times in Adirondack Pitch Black, and the sentiment in chocolate. Three black rhinestones accent the sentiment.
How about some sunset inspiration? Let’s see how the rest of the team interpreted this challenge:
A note from me: I just want you all to know how I appreciate your support regarding our misfortune earlier this week. You were there for me when I truly needed you, and didn’t even know how much I needed you. The kindness of our neighborhood community, my friends and coworkers, and you will help me get past this. I won’t let this scoundrel and the likes of him get me down. Thank you!
Now, let’s get busy stamping! Have a great day!
Stamps: Forest of Trees, Around the Arbor Paper: Flourishes Classic White, black, pale yellow Ink: Pale yellow, mustard, cocoa, black, chocolate Accessories: Black rhinestones
what a gorgeous card. so peaceful. I'm glad to see that you are feeling a bit better and have your fighting spirit. Hugs
Posted by: Joan B | 08/05/2011 at 01:43 AM
So glad you won't let that violator mess with your life. This card is sheer genius. A real stunner.
Posted by: SueB | 08/05/2011 at 02:31 AM
I'm cheering you on! Glad you are putting the intruder behind you! Love the card...its gorgeous!
Posted by: Glenda | 08/05/2011 at 02:39 AM
I think this is probably the most beautiful card I have ever seen. Just fabulous and the sentiment is so touching.
Posted by: Tammy Hair | 08/05/2011 at 04:19 AM
Leslie, this is just so gorgeous! I love that sentiment and the way you highlighted it with 3 gems is just totally perfection! What a beautiful beautiful creation!
ps... I am so happy that you are not letting that horrible situation get the best of you - you put the anger into your creativity and look what came out! WOW!!
Posted by: Carol | 08/05/2011 at 04:47 AM
I'm sure you're still reeling from what happened to you, Leslie. I came to your blog to catch up, and saw this post first. WHen you mentioned something that happened to you the other day, I went down a post to see what that was. Gosh. I left you a loooong comment on that one.
As far as your card goes....beautiful. And I chuckled when I saw that you used toilet paper, because I know it is not the first time you've used that 'tool' for stamping! When I was new to SCS, and browsed for hours in galleries there, I was immediately a fan of "Leslierich". There was a card that involved lilacs from Blossoms Abound, and you used toilet paper on that one. I saved that in my Faves, saved a copy of that card in my computer, and tried to recreate it. (you can see it here: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1294143?&cat=500&ppuser=146480&perpage=96&thumbsonly=0)
Hope your day is better today, Leslie.
Posted by: Colleen Dietrich | 08/05/2011 at 06:00 AM
P.S. I just read my SCS description, and at the time I could not remember who made that lilac card. I remember being overwhelmed by the whole SCS experience. Sorry for not giving credit!
Posted by: Colleen Dietrich | 08/05/2011 at 06:13 AM
Leslie how GORGEOUS is this!!~
Posted by: Cindy haffner | 08/05/2011 at 06:34 AM
This is beautiful...I just sent you an email...I might just have a card that I could submit for this challenge...but it is not a Flourishes image...is that okay?
Posted by: Velta | 08/05/2011 at 06:55 AM
Breathtaking, Leslie! LOVE the way you captured a late summer sky. Just gorgeous and super creative!
Posted by: Barbara | 08/05/2011 at 07:07 AM
I admire your talent! You always have such beautiful cards!
Posted by: TonyaK | 08/05/2011 at 07:18 AM
So glad you're back to stamping--it's such great therapy! Oh, and the card is gorgeous, too!
Posted by: Doris | 08/05/2011 at 07:24 AM
Wow Leslie! This is stunning! I really love this scene you created and your gorgeous late afternoon glow! I hope things are better today!!
Posted by: Danielle | 08/05/2011 at 08:19 AM
Leslie, this is gorgeous!! I have those trees and never thought to do this...WOW!! Love it!
Posted by: Susan | 08/05/2011 at 08:44 AM
Such a peaceful scene! (toilet paper? was that 2 ply? LOL) Love it!
Posted by: Linda Carson | 08/05/2011 at 08:45 AM
With all you have on your mind right now, I'm doubly amazed at your ability to focus and create. I love your card. I'm a great fan of sponging and had no idea toilet paper could produce such wonderful results. I'm sold. Beautiful sentiment and lovely trees.
Posted by: Frances | 08/05/2011 at 08:54 AM
Amazingly beautiful Leslie. So realistic looking, I really feel like I'm there!
And I've been thinking of you and praying for you my friend. Grateful to hear you are getting support, and rallying against anyone who might try and take your strength and the refuge of your home! Blessings my friend!
Posted by: ChristineCreations | 08/05/2011 at 11:01 AM
Leslie this is beautiful. Your shading is fantastic! Glad you are hanging in ther eand that everyone has rallied around you guys. Hugs today...
Posted by: Stacy aka Twinshappy | 08/05/2011 at 11:08 AM
Oh. My. Goodness. This is really really lovely!
Posted by: LaurieJ | 08/05/2011 at 11:44 AM
This is gorgeous. So peaceful. I haven't found a way to sponge a background that I like, I must try the wadded toilet tissue. I'm glad to hear you are feeling a bit better.
Blessings Bernie
Posted by: Bernie | 08/05/2011 at 02:26 PM