This one's not so quick, but it uses the same tree I used on the last card--Snowladen Tree. I also love that sentiment by Norman Peale--it just . . . resonates. *grin*
This design features an emboss resist technique--emboss an image on white card stock--I used white powder in this instance so the tree would have a most snowy/icy appearance for my little birdie to perch on.
I'm always asked about my sponging technique. The secret for me is to use a very rounded sponge pinched in my fingers, and to hit the paper in a swirling motion--no pouncing allowed. *wink* Seriously, tho, that's what gives it an almost airbrushed look. I also intensify some areas, especially when doing sky, to create the illusion of clouds, and back off on others.
Water-based dye ink is usually the easiest to apply over an embossed image--any residue left on the image is easily wiped off with a tissue.
The little birdie was clipped from a border punch out (from red card stock), glued into place, and then I used a Quickie Glue Pen to apply a coat of glue over top, and dust him with red glitter. Tiny punch outs like this tend to get gummed up in my little Xyron machine, so I prefer glittering super tiny things this way. Oh, and be sure to glue him in place first--it's buggah trying to glitter up a tiny little thing like that without it being anchored in some way!
Silver Shimmer Couture paper for the card base gives this design a very plush and luxurious look--I love that it's shimmery white on the opposite side, too. I just write my message with a permanent ink pen, like a Sharpie, for ease.
*****
Credits: All stamp images and papers by A Muse Artstamps; Inks: Memento Sky Blue, Versamark, Fresh Ink Slate by Impress; Silver Cord by May Arts; Glitter by Martha Stewart; White Embossing Powder; Birds on a wire border punch by Martha Stewart
