Dotted Card

I've seen this technique a few times with different masks and wanted to give it a try. I drew and cut out an apple shape, found some Crayola markers that have the bigger tip and got to work. It was easy to make and I thought it turned out well.

The trick is to almost outline the shape so you get a defined shape. I just dotted very close together near the edge of the apple mask and then let the dots get less dense the farther out I went from the mask. Also make sure your adhesive you use isn't going to pull up the paper when you remove it.

 The thank you die is from Heidi Swapp. I used two reds, two oranges and a purply red marker. This one came together fast.  If you need a bunch of cards, use a large shape and large markers. The kids can do this one too...and they can actually outline it if that's easier. Great for end-of-year thank yous for teachers.

And if you're now thinking about apples, check out this Caramel Apple Bread recipe I found on pinterest. Yum! I swear if I ever make half the things I pin, it'll be impressive! 

Happy Wednesday!

Chark

It's Graduation Time

Blatant Mommy Brag...have to share pics my oldest, Colleen, in her cap and gown and take a moment to say Congratulations! She just graduated from University of Kentucky with two degrees (Psychology and Elementary Ed) in four years, while holding down at least two jobs at a time (sometimes more), being editor of the satire newspaper on campus, peer mentoring her fellow Honors Program students and holding a 4.0 average. 

She is a one-of-a-kind woman who will make the best teacher because of her enthusiasm, energy, and drive to pass on her love of learning, plus her willingness to work her arse off (which she learned from her dad). 

I'm telling you, she's a wonder...or as her brother and I say to each other, a freak of nature. Honestly, though, it's humbling to see how much effort and energy she puts into everything she does. This is one determined woman. She will make a difference, she already has. Oh, and did I mention she's kind and funny and won a couple of awards (for writing and for service) while achieving this amazing goal?

I'm glad she's my daughter and I'm glad she is working toward what she wants and leaving rainbow colored sparkles in her wake. To know her is to be charmed by her. Colleen is an original and we couldn't be more proud of her accomplishments. And she didn't even plan these similar pictures, this is just her normal self :)

Okay, now that I'm finished with the Mommy Brag, here's a little apple grad card I made with the 2 Cute Ink digi stamps for May. 

I love this little guy. I printed him large so I could make a card from him, colored him roughly with cross-hatching and trimmed him and then cut a piece of cardstock to match, scored it at the base of the hat and then glued the top part of the hat. I made a tassel with some embroidery floss and added white pen highlights and a silver button sticker to the hat.

Wishing you a Happy Friday!
Chark