Better Late than Never!

Hey party people! Long time, no post. The only thing I can say is that I had too much going on to blog during the last few months of 2012. I was still able to craft here and there, but I don’t even think I photographed most of what I made in November and December.

I really hope that 2013 is better – I’m trying to do more planning. I’ve decided that I have to treat my blog like my job. I think because crafting is such an important part of my life, I need to do that. I am sure that many of you have heard of Ali Edwards’ One Little Word. Well, my word for 2013 is growth. I feel like as a whole, 2012 was a great year for me – but I want and expect more from myself, so I am challenging myself to grow this year.

That brings me to the card that I want to share with you all. The first one of 2013!

So, in the spirit of growing, I decided to try my hand a technique outside of what I generally do. Chalkboard stamping is the really hot thing right now. I first saw it on Betsy Veldman’s blog last month and I totally love it. It’s very graphic driven and definitely requires more thought. I like my take on it, but I can’t say it’s something I will do a lot of. I generally do my best to come up with my own thing. I’m not really into reproducing other’s cards or ideas.

Most of this card is Papertrey Ink. I used Smokey Shadow cardstock as my chalkboard. And to kind of put a little bit of myself into it, I matted it on a panel of Sweet Blush which was then adhered to a Soft Stone base. The stamps I used are from Table Service, Thing Big Favorites # 2, and TPC Studios Card Crafting Happy Birthday.

The one thing I did a little differently was draw in the heart and color it with one of my Prismacolor Color pencils. Other than that, I pretty much followed Betsy’s tutorial to the T.

Before I wrap this up, I wanted to add that I’ve decided to try Project Life for 2013. I always kind of resisted scrapbooking because I felt that I would overthink it and never really accomplish anything, but I feel like Project Life is something that I can realistically accomplish and still put a little of my own creativity into. I haven’t started yet because I want to order the Seafoam Core Kit which goes on sale later this month. I’m still kind of researching and getting myself organized for this little endeavor!

Okay, I think that does it. I hope everyone had an amazing Christmas. It is my wish that 2013 is a wonderful year for us all. And, as always, I thank you for taking the time to read my little thoughts and visit my blog. Have a blessed day!