Smile Monica ~ CQC#144

It's almost Monica's birthday and I wanted to send her a card using Calypso Coral.  Not sure why I picked that color, but I did, and then I couldn't figure out what colors to use as an accent.  I almost just did the Calypso Coral on its own, but decided to go searching for some color combos first.

It's funny, but I'm not alone in wanting to use this color this week.  I actually found 2 challenges that have this color.  I went with the Color Q, but I might do another one with the second challenge.  :)  

CQC #144

The card "sketch" is one I wanted to do as soon as I saw the Reason to Smile stamp set.  My focal piece is 2 1/2" x 3 1/2".  First I stamped 2 of the flowers using Calypso Coral, then I stamped the outline image using Poppy Parade over it.  Next I pulled out my sponges and started in the center with Calypso Coral.  It was quite a challenge, since I own the marker, but not the ink pad.  It would look much better, I think if I used an ink pad.  Next I used the lighter shade of blue around the outside of the cardstock.  Last I barely touched the edges with my sponge inked up in the darkest blue.

The sentiment for my card comes from Curly Cute.  To add a little more POP to the card I punched the flower using Boho Blossoms punch, and used a paper piercing tool to make a hole in the center for my 2011 In Color Printed Brad.  

The focal image and the birthday banner were popped up using Dimensionals, but the rest of the layers were adhered flat. 

If you would like to get the Reason to Smile stamp set, it's only $5 with any $50 during the month of July, but after July 2012 it will no longer be available.   Click HERE to learn more.
I just realized something.   This might be my first $5 card, since I already had everything else I needed to make this card, the only new thing was the $5 stamp set.   (and yes I was already placing a $50 order so it's NOT a $55 card... hee-hee)

Creative Blessings,
Heather North

Stamps: Reason to Smile, Curly Cute
Paper: 2011-2013 Patterns Stack DSP
Misc.: Printed 2011 In Color Brads, Calypso Coral Ruffled Ribbon, Boho Blossoms Punch