The Total Complete Package!

As I have often said you can't beat corresponding papers.  This is especially true with pattern papers.  In this project there are 3 different patterned papers.  I for one who has issues if everything doesn't match would be pushed over the edge if I had to find patterns that match.  I am from the era where you didn't even match stripes and prints. lol  Well thank goodness that era has passed.  Whenever possible buy your papers in coordinating sets.  (Like CTMH offers).   This allows ease when adding layers of patterns.  Also I like to use inks where the color corresponds.  Although basic black always works, using a colored ink, (Cocoa in this example) adds depth to your project.

What I have done with this card is use a embossing folder to emboss the back of the card.  It adds a touch of elegance and texture.  The interesting thing with this is the folder print seems to match the floral pattern and they are totally different products.  So be sure to look through your supplies and see what may match that you were totally unaware of.



What to do with scraps and the perfect sentiment.  Let me just say you can never have to many sentiments.  You can mix and match sentiments, be creative with them.  If you are someone who usually does your craft shopping at craft stores and doesn't usually shop with a stamp company like Close to My Heart, you may want to take a look at the sentiment stamp sets offered by CTMH.  They are amazing and you definitely get your money's worth with the Chatter Card sentiment sets that have lots of sentiments in each set.  You can get 6 to 28 sentiments in a single set and when you add in the amount of sentiments you can combine and arrange the possibilities are unlimited.  These sets range from 9.95 to 17.95 and cover most every event you can think of.

Now those little scraps, USE THEM!  For pattern scraps cut out a pattern and add it to the lower right hand of the corner inside your card.   This certainly adds elegance and breaks up the solid inside of the card.  Don't forget you can also embellish your scrap to as I have added a chocolate pearl.  You can also use the scraps to embellish your envelopes. 

Here is the finished project.  Using coordinating paper, embellishments, patterns and scraps you can create an elegant project that makes an amazing gift.  Yes, I said gift, because a hand made project is a work of art!

I hope this inspires you to look at your projects and think of the total package and sharing your works of art.

Happy New Year!

Scrappingly yours,

Gigi