Hello, friends! I'm back with the final course in the Altenew Educator Certification Program, Level 3: Elements of Floral Composition with the talented Jaycee Gaspar.
In this course, Jaycee dives into the elements of art, offering fantastic tips and techniques on how to incorporate them into the card-making process. Today, I’m excited to share two cards with you, both showcasing a few techniques I’ve learned from this course. It’s been so much fun putting these skills into practice!
CARD #1 - SPACE
For this card, I started by placing a panel of white cardstock onto my Stamp Wheel. I stamped the floral image first, followed by the layering images, using the Red Sunset Fresh Dye Ink Set for a vibrant, rich effect. For the leaves, I chose the Forest Glades Fresh Dye Ink Set to complement the florals and create a harmonious color palette. Next, I used the matching die to cut out the stamped floral and leaf images.
I then took a sheet of acetate, trimmed it down to A2 size, and divided it into thirds using a pen. This served as a guide for placing my focal point, following the same technique Jaycee demonstrated in the lesson.
In the photo below, you can see the acetate guide, with the four points where the lines intersect marking the ideal spots for placing the focal point. This is where I centered my design, following the guide for perfect alignment
I've included a photo of the acetate guide below so you can better understand the technique I used for placement and alignment. I hope it helps clarify the process!
Next, I arranged the stamped elements on my panel to determine their placement. To make sure everything stayed in place, I used a piece of Grab N Seal, a handy tool Jaycee recommended in the lesson. I was so impressed by this technique that I actually went to the store beforehand to pick some up! Once everything was in position, I set the elements aside so I could focus on preparing my panel.
For the sentiment, I used the acetate guide again to ensure proper alignment and stamped it directly onto the panel with black ink. To add some texture and visual interest, I created a splatter effect by dabbing some Crimson ink onto a stamp block, adding water to my brush, and lightly tapping it onto the panel.
Next, I attached the elements to my panel by applying liquid adhesive to the leaves and pressing them down securely. After carefully peeling away the Grab N Seal from the images, I added foam tape to the floral elements for added dimension and popped them up on the panel.
I truly enjoyed all of the techniques in this lesson, and I found the process of creating this card to be incredibly smooth and enjoyable. It was a fun, effortless experience, and I love how everything came together!
CARD #2 - LINE
For my next card, I followed along with Lesson 3 - Element of Art: Line/Perceived Lines and used the Blooming Delight Stamp Set to explore this technique.
I began by stamping the image onto a large panel to capture the entire floral design, as the Blooming Delight Stamp Set features a larger image. Then, I used a ruler to follow the perceived lines within the design, helping me identify the direction of movement and flow within the composition.
Once I identified the direction of movement in the image, I stamped it directly onto the panel, carefully splitting the design in two to create a balanced arrangement.
With the images in place, I was able to stamp the sentiment, which ended up being perfectly framed between the two floral designs. I must admit, I usually struggle with sentiment placement, but this lesson made it clear and easy.
I finished the card with purple splatter from the Enchanted Garden Crisp Dye Ink Set. I applied the ink pad to my craft sheet and then lightly tapped the splatter onto the panel with my water brush. I also blended the same ink around the edges to create a seamless transition.
This has been truly the most rewarding experience! The Altenew Educator Certification Program has provided me with a wealth of knowledge, and I am now more confident in my card making abilities. I have gained a greater comprehension of various techniques, and I am profoundly appreciative to Altenew for providing such an inspiring and enriching experience.
Until next time, sending crafty hugs your way!
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