The Story Behind the Card...



I am always sad to see one of my favorite stamp sets retire. This is especially true for the Paisley and Posies set. I love paisley patterns. This set is so pretty and lends itself to many different designs. When I purchased it I searched ideas for cards on Pinterest and discovered a few ideas that used the stamps to make your own bandana DSP! The designs really spoke to my heart!!

My father used to carry a bandana in the pocket of his jeans every day. It was his redneck handkerchief! He had it at the ready for tears. It also served as a bandage and wiped a few runny noses too. Carrying a handkerchief is a tradition that is from another era. One that, like aprons, has fallen out of practice in our hustle and bustle world. I can't help feeling nostalgic every time I see the bandana paisley pattern; I am reminded of my dad and the simple act of caring his bandana represented.

My father also wore boots every day. He had work boots, everyday cowboy boots, and a pair of dress cowboy boots. Aside from a pair of laced dress shoes, I don't think he ever owned anything but boots. When I saw the Country Livin' set, I had to have it because of the boots!  Fortunately, this set will is returning in the new catalog!!

While my card design may be appear to be intended for a rancher, horseman, or cowboy, it was actually inspired by a country farm boy that grew up to be a hard working plumber who loved living a simple small town life, and whenever possible spending time hunting, fishing and just enjoying nature.





Are any of your favorite stamps retiring?  Check my shop and get yours today before they are gone.

Which stamp sets are you sad to see on the retiring list? Leave me a comment and tell me which one you will miss and why. I love to hear what it is about a stamp that inspires people!




Instructions:


Cut List: 
  • Card base - Basic Black 5 ½” x 8 ½”, scored at 4 ¼”
  • Background - Cherry Cobbler 4" X 5 ¼”
  • Basic Black CS - 3" square for circle mat
  • Watercolor Paper - 2 ¾” square for boots
  • Strip of Wood DSP – 5/8” x 5 ¼”
Stamping/Inking/Coloring:
  • Paisley images stamped Basic Black Archival ink in random pattern on Cherry Cobbler CS
  • Used White Gel Pen to accent Paisley
  • Country Livin’ boot image stamped in Basic Black Archival
  • Colored with an Aqua Painter using Soft Suede for the Boots, a mix of Soft Suede and Basic Gray for boot sole and heel and Smoky Slate to shade under boot
  • Truly Tailored Dad sentiment and cravat icon stamped in Basic Black Archival on wood DSP strip
  • Soft Suede ink dabbed on stitches of the stitched circle die before die cutting the boot image
  • Wood DSP inked around edges lightly with Early Espresso
Assembly:
  • Adhere Wood DSP strip to paisley background about 3/4" from top using snail
  • Adhere paisley background to card base using dimensionals
  • Adhere boots to black mat using snail
  • Adhere assembled boot to card using dimensionals
Embellish:
  • Loop Linen Thread 3-4 times and tie a single knot to form a lasso
  • Attach lasso to card using glue dots