Stitched Birdhouse

Today I went completely outside of my comfort zone.  I don't normally make "cute" cards, so it was a stretch for me.  As well, I challenged myself to use some clear stamps that I received from a friend a few years back, but hadn't used yet.  And, I challenged myself to use up this beautiful background paper that I made about two months ago.  So ... this is the final product.  Hope you like.

"Stitched Birdhouse"

 

 

Stamps:  Clear stamps: birdhouse, for you (unknown) 

Paper:  Soft Suede, River Rock polka-dot (SU!); Arches 140lb. cold press "Natural White" watercolor paper

Ink:  Soft Suede, Old Olive, Cajun Craze; Stampin' Write Markers: Soft Suede, Sahara Sand, Old Olive, Cajun Craze, Pumpkin Pie, Early Espresso

Accessories & Tools:  Cuttlebug Birds & Swirls embossing folder, Big Shot, Nestabilities Oval die-cuts (Spellbinders), sponges, two wire rings, paper piercing tool

* * * * *

I randomly sponged (in a circular motion) Soft Suede, Old Olive and Cajun Craze ink onto the River Rock polka-dot paper.  I then ran it through the Big Shot with the Birds & Swirls embossing folder.  I sponged lightly over top wit Soft Suede ink to highlight the embossing.

I inked my main image stamp using Stampin' Write markers and stamped onto the watercolor paper.  I stamped the sentiment in Soft Suede ink and also stamped a separate flower (using the main stamp) onto the watercolor paper.  I cut all three out with the Nestabilities oval die-cuts.  I cut out Soft Suede cardstock with the Nestabilities Oval die-cuts in sizes to frame the three stamped images.

I sponged the edges of all pieces with Soft Suede to give them an aged look.

I attached the background embossed paper onto the card base and then attached the 1" piece of Soft Suede just to the left of center.  I used the Early Espresso Stampin' Write marker to add stitching all around the card and down the 1" strip.

I also added stitching to the Soft Suede ovals and then attached the stamped images on top (watercolor paper) with sticky strips.  I punched small holes and added wire rings to hold the three ovals together.