Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge -- Going Dotty

Simon Says Stamp's current Wednesday Challenge, Going Dotty, appealed to me because I really like dots. I now have three different dot embossing folders (no it wasn't a mistake -- they are all different) and I thought I'd try combining strips of the different dots. After embossing the strips, I patted them with some Hero Arts Unicorn White ink to highlight the dots a bit. It still needed something after adding the clock and sentiment, and I just drew a line around the edges. Not a great card, but I do like the dots!

The next card is not dotty, just fun for me to make. The first thing I do when I get a new die or stamp or embossing folder, is test it out. As a result, I usually have various odds and ends laying around my desk, and I'm always happy when I can put some of them together and make something. When I bought the Darice Shell Corner embossing folder a while back, I embossed a piece of kraft, sanded it lightly and set it aside. Last week I bought the Sizzix Sand and Sea Bigz die that I've had my eye on for a while and cut out a set of pieces in white. Then I remembered the embossed shells and wondered if I could make the white seahorse look anything like an actual seahorse. I misted it first with brown mist, then copper Perfect Pearls mixed with water in a Tim Holtz spray bottle for a little shine, and inked the edges with Walnut Stain distress ink. Still needed something, so I popped him into a Cuttlebug embossing folder with tiny squares, and the texture was just what he needed. A small bead of black Liquid Pearls for an eye, and I was pretty pleased with how he came out.

I'm wrapping up the last of the cards I will be sending to Operation Write Home, as they are closing their doors and must have them in hand by August 1. Sad for us cardmakers, but wonderful news that most of our soldiers are home or on their way, and there is no need. Let's hope it stays that way!