Stamping Critique

Does this need something more?

2009-10-23T03:49:00.006-04:00

So this is my first submission to this blog and I'm really hoping someone is still around :) Please be gentle.

I've made this card for a swap with the requirement that the colours used be only pink and black. It's one of those cards that grew as it went along and is nothing like the card I originally planned. The main background is alcohol ink. (I don't know if it's my scanner or my monitor but the pink does not seem to have reproduced well - it's quite strong & looks fine.)

Overall I'm not too unhappy about how it turned out. The swirl didn't stamp very well but I'm more concerned about the layout and if it is balanced. I think it needs something on the left but nothing seems to work. Any ideas? Actually any suggestions at all for any part of the card would be welcome.

Elizabeth

Updated post

2009-04-30T07:29:00.002-04:00

I updated my "Should I throw this away" post below. Please let me know if I am on the right track. Thanks!

A beautiful card is lurking here somewhere... (and AFTER)

2009-04-27T11:16:00.006-04:00

This card (at least the pieces of it) has been sitting on my worktable for a few days. I used scraps of some Colorbok paper that were laying around my work area. I really like the 3 squares concept but I think my layout is off. I tried it with 1 square each in the 2 left corners being centered by the 3rd square but I didn't really like that either.

Does the circle work? I thought it highlighted the greeting a bit but I'm open to ideas.

FYI The actual card is a white base, the peach layer behind it is a manilla folder I put the card on to take the photo. Don't worry- even I wouldn't use peach with those colors!

All comments appreciated. I learn so much reading your critiques.

Here is the final card. It didn't turn out exactly as I had envisioned it but I like the 4 large squares. I'll need to experiment again with that type of layout.

Should I Just Throw This Away? - UPDATED 4/29

2009-04-26T17:51:00.004-04:00

It seemed like a good idea at the time.

I started out sewing on a die-cut piece of turquoise card stock, then I decided I'd had enough, so I cut off the one side that was stitched, and then it went downhill from there.

First I took a scrap of textured yellow card stock and punched it with a border punch. Then I added the yellow die-cut piece behind the turquoise. Then I looked for a scrap with yellow and blue in it, and I found that patterned piece of tissue paper. Then I added the Groovy Guava patterned paper to try and pull out the orange in the piece, and I mounted the whole thing on a piece of Basic Gray.

Then I rested.

Here is the piece next to a card so you can see the relative size of the thing.

So what do you think? Should I put it out of its misery and just throw it away? or does it have at least one redeeming quality? And if you think it DOES have a redeeming quality, would you please tell me what it is?

I thank you.

Update 4/29:

Thank you for all the suggestions. You were, of course, correct in thinking the yellow was WRONG, so it has been removed to the circular file. Is this one any better? (Personally, I think the blue in that paper is wrong for the turquoise stitched piece ...)

Help Me Help Me Help Me She cried...

2009-04-13T15:16:00.004-04:00

Isn't this a line in a kids song? Anyways, I need help. I cannot figure out how to finish this card. I'm not totally enamoured with the large flower to start with. Not sure if it is the coloring or what.

suggestions?

Comments Please! Updated 02/26

2009-02-25T06:02:00.004-05:00

Thanks for your comments. I've been playing around a bit...what do you think?

The leaves are crudely stuck in and can easily be removed.

************************************************************************************
This blog needs a little attention and affection AND I need your help. There's something missing or ??? with this card.

(sorry for the bad photo but it was dark when I took the photo and even darker now...do you all use a photo light box?)

What are your thoughts and suggestions? Thanks in advance!

And Here It is!!!

2008-11-30T19:14:00.003-05:00

I used the waxed paper resist technique to create the background. This was my first time with this technique and it is so easy. (My mind is spinning on the possibilities of modifying this technique!)

Thank you all for your input (yup, ribbon is possible, isn't it, Leslie!) and thanks Paula for this layout. I love it!

And I want to try adding gold edging around another card sometime too Elizabeth. I have another masculine birthday card around the beginning of the year.

Thanks again!!!

Masculine Birthday

2008-11-22T16:52:00.003-05:00

I took your original design and did a bit of tweaking. I hope it is o.k. It is just easier for me to take the original and make a card to see if I can work with it. I do not have the stamp set you used but tried to keep the elements about the same size. I did change the card from Horizontal to Vertical to start with because it just was not working for me.

The major change was more layers. It seemed that helped the focal point to stand out more.

I did use retired designer paper because I wanted the brown color, but......you could use any patterned roller wheel to get the same background coverage or something like the canvas, twill or polka dot background stamp. That will give the card some added texture. I also added ribbon. Chocolate Chip ribbon right down the middle just adds more texture. I purposely did not add a bow. I put your focal point at the top of the card and left room for the sentiment on the bottom. I used the ticket corner punch like you did as I like the effect you gave your card. Really the only thing I did different was add more layers and put the sentiment onto a different piece of cardstock. I like your card and really there is nothing wrong with it. I just had to play.....LOL! In fact, you card forced me to do something as I have had a stamp block for the last two days, did not even want to pick up a stamp. Thanks for helping me get energized again. Rubber Hugs, Paula

Masculine Birthday Card Assistance Needed

2008-11-21T16:46:00.003-05:00

Fellow stampers, I need your help!!!! My neighbor (who's close to 82 and a delight) purchases custom cards from me and wanted one for her 25-year-old grandson's birthday. She likes very traditional-type cards and wasn't overly fond of my "Lovely as a Tree" designs in the past so I decided to stretch myself a bit. I think I overdid it and now have need of a bit of some assistance as I cannot stretch my poor brain any further.

She ended up taking this one as she said that he would be much more interested in what was inside the card (a check) than the card itself and so was "happy" with it. I'll say "happy" as she didn't gush over it but when I said that it was only partially done when we were having tea one afternoon and showed it to her, she told me to consider it finished as he would be happier to see the check. I have to admit that her telling me that he would be more interested in the contents than the card took some of the joy out of making it but I'm still thinking about it and want your opinions on how I can improve it. I'll make another with your suggestions and keep it available for another masculine birthday which we all know will occur sooner or later!

Thanks in advance for your suggestions!

How to finish this card

2008-10-11T11:07:00.002-04:00

I like this background and I like the chocolate cupcake. What should I do for the birthday sentiment?
Vertical?
Large Circle?
Any ideas appreciated- this has been sitting on my stamp table for a week.

UPDATED - YIKES! He's Backing Into the Driveway...

2008-09-06T10:26:00.006-04:00

And his birthday card isn't finished. Believe it or not, my husband's birthday is today and here I was without a card this morning. Fortunately, he went running with his buddies before I woke up and since they were running a 13-mile route (yes, THIRTEEN), I had some time. Turns out that I didn't have enough though as I couldn't figure out how to put the sentiment on. I finally just slapped it on as he was walking in the door.

How can I fix it? Yes, I thought about ribbon, Leslie, but only have 5/8" chocolate chip grosgrain and none of the bows I tried worked. I did have a thought a second ago...maybe natural hemp. I still don't know how to best layer/make the sentiment...HELP!

Thanks to your comments, I've come up with this version.

I'm still not 100% about the shape of the sentiment (feel free to add input as I learn so much from everyone's comments) but I do like this version.

Thank you!!!!

Help Baby My Card Layout! (updated 9-19)

2008-09-04T12:32:00.005-04:00

Updated 9-19-08
I actually finished the card last week and my husband sent the gift today. No big rush... the baby was born 8-30.

I ended up getting rid of the scallop but I lightened up the carriage, brightened it up by adding more DP and while this is by far my favorite card of all time... I'm ok with it ;)

I really like the scallop with the carriage. I have tried this layout 2 different ways but I really don't like either. Is it that the large panel is too overpowering? I just don't know what is wrong so I'm asking the experts (or people who think they are experts!)

Need help with this

2008-08-27T11:26:00.005-04:00

I made this card for You Know You Rock's Metal challenge. I am not sure if I really like it.
What do you think it needs done to it or taken away?

You can see a little more about it at www.stampndaly.com/?p=853

Thank you
Sue Daly

Edited Post- 08/29/08 Ok, I took the comments that I received on the original card which is the one in the bottom right hand corner and came up with the other three versions. Please tell me which one you like the best or should I try again. Note: This is all done before breakfast and I am now really hungry :).

UPDATED: Stuck on Chic Batik Card

2008-07-08T08:20:00.007-04:00

I decided last night to play with a new technique and created this batik paper. I want to have this be the highlight of the card. It's a birthday card so I decided to use the sentiment "Celebrate!"

I love how the batik paper turned out but I'm just stuck as it doesn't look finished or special. Maybe I need to scallop the light rose border around the paper? I'd love everyone's suggestions.

Thanks in advance.

UPDATED 07/23/08:

I finally decided that I had to let go of this card and finish it off. I've spent waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyy too much time agonizing over the design of this one little card...the recipient's birthday was weeks ago and I ended up making her another card.

(Sorry about the change in lighting. ) I tried a darker paper in back of the batik paper, a lighter color, white and nothing popped out at me. I liked Paula's suggestion of popping out a flower but I honestly couldn't figure out how to do it (love to hear more on how you would do it with the mulberry paper) so I ended up creating a new layout and adding eyelets. All I can say is that it's done. After agonizing over this for 3 weeks, I think it's time to start something new.

I still have another piece of this batik paper so if you have suggestions, keep'em coming.

Thanks again!

Show Us What You Did!

2008-07-02T11:52:00.002-04:00

Hey, Ladies! I would love to see what you changed, if anything, based on the comments you received on your posts. Please show us what you did by posting an updated photo of your creations! That's part of the fun! ;-) Thanks!

Ribbon winner

2008-07-01T11:03:00.002-04:00

Ladies- thanks for the creative art and critique for the month of June.

As promised, each artist who posted artwork in June was entered into a drawing for a custom selected ribbon grab bag.

The winner is:

Sue Daly

Congratulations Sue!

Please send me an e-mail:
alces.alces at g m a i l dot com

Easy Embrace Life Card

2008-06-27T21:47:00.004-04:00

Brenda,

I love the simple card you did, but you gave me a big challenge....

how.....by needing a simple card....I had not done this in ages so....

just for the fun of it..... I challenged my self to use mostly white card stock with one other color. I only used markers. The flower is colored with Apricot Appeal then I used close to cocoa for the stem. I did cheat a bit and used my aqua painter to dab Groovy guava ink from the pad onto the flower. I scored the bottom of the card three times at 1/2" intervals then added flower brads. You could add ribbon instead, they were already out so I used them.

Now......here is my challenge to everyone else. Make a card with a white background and one color card stock. Only use one embellishment and markers to color your images. Use the stamp set Embrace Life. Lets give Brenda lots of ideas to send off to her cousin. Thanks for playing along. Paula

Advice Needed on Simple Birthday Card

2008-06-26T18:45:00.003-04:00

I'd like to make a simple birthday card for a cousin who is just starting to stamp. She recently purchased the SU Embrace Life stamp set and a full set of markers. She doesn't have much colored cardstock so my thought was to make a card with a white background.

I apologize for the coordinating background but it just faded into the white background when I used that. I can retake the photo with a black background if that will help.

It is difficult to see but I used a Regal Rose Marker to edge all around the card as well as sponging around the main image. It's been so long since I've done a simple card that I'm having trouble deciding if I'm done or if it needs something else.

What is everyone's opinion? Thank you in advance for your ideas!

Soda can Embellishment- bare or leave alone

2008-06-26T08:44:00.003-04:00

Hello there, I am Susan Daly and I am new to Stamping Critique. This is my first post.

I made this card for Card Positioning System's weekly sketch. My main focus in this card was the oval embellishment that I made out of a soda can. I wanted to highlight how the embellishment turned out.

My question is should I add more to this card or leave it alone. It may look a bit bare.

What's Wrong With This Card? - Update Last (Thanks!)

2008-06-17T19:52:00.010-04:00

I thought this would work, but I am not liking it much right now. What's wrong with it? Should I lose the tan patterned strip? Is it the wrong ribbon (the only one I had that was not red + white-white)? Should I not emboss the sentiment? Should I lose the glitter spots? Does it need some more off-white somewhere? WHAT?! Sigh ....

Thanks in advance...

Love the ideas, ladies! Keep 'em coming! I firmly believe in baby steps, and when possible I only like to change one thing at a time. First up is making the eagle pop a little more.

I really like the idea, though I do not think my execution is on the mark. I think I'll lose (or narrow) the tan strip next. I still believe it needs some more white ... somewhere .... maybe ... oooh, maybe some white glitter instead of red? I'll sleep on this and try again tomorrow. Thanks for the help!!!

Here we are again! I broke my own rules and changed two things: I added the white layer behind the blue and I changed the ribbon. I decided to leave the tan patterned paper since the ribbon was not so much of a contrast any more. I might go back and trim the white layer to match the blue scallops ...

I think it is MUCH better, and on its way to being an okay card. :-)

Do you think the sentiment is passable now? I was going to try either leaving it off entirely so the card could be used for any occasion, or maybe using my Cuttlebug Olivia alphabet to do the sentiment instead of stamping it. I may also lose the red glitter gunk and replace it with clear Stickles.

Thanks, as always, for the great feedback!

I've decided not to bore you with all the in-between steps that have happened since the previous post, and just show you this last version; and I think I like it.

I trimmed the bottom of the white layer, and I like it better. I tried to use the Olivia alphabet for the sentiment, but it was wider than the whole card, so I opted for what you see here. I also covered up the red glitter spots with clear glitter Stickles.

Thanks for all of your great suggestions! It really helped me see beyond the idea in my head and make it better. :-)

Kristin.

2008-06-07T22:35:00.004-04:00

Kristin, I used your wonderful card as a guideline.
I did not have the same stripe paper and I was to lazy to go in the other room to get the same stamp out, but....I did use your card as my guideline.

Since the rub-ons were hard to see on my striped paper I took them off. First, I put the stripe paper onto a solid color piece of card stock (you can just barely see the Wild Wasabi behind the striped paper). I then added a different piece of designer paper with the same colors to break up the middle of the card. It is mounted on Pumpkin Pie. I then added the flower and since I did not want to go digging for a big brad, I used an eyelet. I stuck it on a piece of pumpkin pie scalloped card stock because it did not stand out enough like your pretty flower with the white edge. I stamped happy birthday, and mounted it in the middle of the second piece of designer series paper to break it up a bit. I added the ribbon and just tied a knot. A ribbon slider would accomplish the same thing. I then added the three orange brads to fill some of the empty space. I loved your layout, I just added too it. You are on the right tract and I like what you did, I just went one step farther by filling in some of the middle.

Rubber Hugs, Paula

Need something??

2008-06-07T11:13:00.002-04:00

I whipped this up quickly yesterday after a serious lack of stamping, and hoping something would just come to me. Sometimes I can stamp like that successfully and sometimes I can't. I'm not sure this time. I like it, but wondering if it needs a little something else?? Another sentiment?? Thanks for your help!

Kristin

One time only special offer

2008-06-02T07:36:00.002-04:00

To stimulate growth on this blog we are running a drawing from 6/1/08 - 6/30/08. Anyone who posts artwork to be critiqued will have their name entered into a drawing for a grab bag of ribbon. I live near the Offray ribbon outlet and I can stuff many ROLLS (as in 1 yard to 6 yards) of ribbon into a mailer. Ribbon is light and I'll open this up to our international friends as well. Leslie (my co-moderator) and I are not eligible to win, but we are allowed to post to the blog during the contest

Our goal is for this blog to have 1 new piece of artwork posted per week. Help us meet that goal- sharpen your artwork and your critique skills.

I know personally, I learn a lot from reading the critiques- it can be very helpful to hear why something isn't working!

Help Needed on Wedding Card - Take 2

2008-04-21T08:30:00.005-04:00

Hi Everyone!

I am trying to make this wedding card using the SU To Have and To Hold stamp set and I'm stuck.

The card stock is Bashful Blue and Whisper White and I have heat embossed the sentiment in white. It's difficult to see but I've also heat embossed the pair of hearts from the stamp set randomly on the background in white and started to put some glitter on the gown. I'm thinking of adding more glitter to the gown but it still seems to be lacking something. I'm also wondering if the sentiment pops enough.

Thanks in advance for your always-helpful comments!

*****************************************************************

UPDATED 04/30/08:

Sorry that I seemd to have dropped off the face of the earth but as I'm sure you all find...there are just not enough hours in the day. This is a just-because card and not a I-need-it-now card so it fell to the bottom of the heap. I took your advice on the ribbon and this is the first version.

And Jolie, I like your idea of taking the couple off entirely. I'll post it when I do have time to make it.

Thanks to everyone! (And keep your comments coming if you see something on this card that you would add or change!).

Now What? - Takes 3 & 4

2008-03-31T19:40:00.023-04:00

I've made this much of the card so far, and all it's got is potential. I think. When I am faced with a busy background like this, I freeze. I am really bad at collage-y things, too, probably for the same reason.

Any ideas for a sentiment? No sentiment? Wha?

Thanks in advance!

Update: I loved the idea of a coffee theme!!! I had this sentiment out (er, not put away yet), and I used the coffee cup from part of an A Muse image.

I used the blue for matting the sentiment to try and pull that color out a little. Do you think it also needs a layer of green before the brown?

I also really liked the idea of chipboard letters, but all of mine are as big as the card, so I opted to not use them.;-) I'll just file that idea away for another time!

Too much? Too little? Maybe some brads in the top corners?

Update Last:

For this version I added a green layer, and Ithink I like this one much better than the previous one.

Then I went a little crazy. I do not have a big coffee cup, but since I liked the idea of the sentiment on the cup, I tried to make one. I think if I leave off the silly line (my attempt to define the top of the cup), it will work.

Any final thoughts? Wanna vote? :-)

Thanks, as usual, for all your input!

Color Help Needed

2008-03-07T21:09:00.002-05:00

I have been practicing shading with watercolor markers.

I need ideas for color palettes for this stamp. I can't tell if I just don't like the image or if it has potential if I picked colors that were harmonious.

This project has a ton of detail work and

2008-03-07T14:09:00.002-05:00

I do think it's beautiful but it still needs something to finishi it off...I made it long ago but was not impressed with the results so I put it away and it has been sitting idle with no home to give it love...So sad!

Give me some ideas if you will...TIA

{ I am so sorry!! }

2008-02-19T17:33:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to apologize to everyone for the personal post. Something very strange with blogger today. I posted on my personal blog...then read it afterward, on my personal blog...and now was informed that it was on Stamping Critique! Again, I am sorry...it is gone now. :0)

I Need Your Help!

2008-02-18T00:10:00.002-05:00

What does this card need? I was thinking of putting something white on the bottom middle/right? Does it need anything or should I just leave my hands off of it?

It just feels like there is something missing.

Its hard to tell as the base card is Whisper White card stock. I then layered Sofst Sky then Designer Series paper. I placed the White taffeta ribbon around the card then added the sentiment stamped in Soft Sky onto Whisper White then punched out with the scallop punch. This was layered onto soft sky then whisper white. Does it need anything else????? Thanks for your help. Paula.

Playing with Stuck Again sketch

2008-02-15T22:33:00.003-05:00

To Stuck Again. I hope you do not mind me playing with your sketch. I really liked the basic layout so I just played around with it and this is what I came up with.

I added the turquoise eyelets to the upper right area so it did not look so bare. I actually could have gone with more white rubons but I did not think they would show up enough.

I used a stripe paper for the center of the card in the same family and just backed it with certainly celery card stock. I used scissors to notch the corners. I then used the scallop punch on tempting turquoise and 1-1/4" circle for the center. You can stamp just about anything in it. I needed a get well card so that is what I stamped. I should of sponged around the white circle but I had already stuck it down.

I hope you don't mind my creative license with your sketch. Happy Stamping, Paula

Stuck, again ... UPDATED!

2008-02-15T17:52:00.015-05:00

I almost always get stuck at this point in the card-making process. I see pretty paper, and I see the SU colors in it, and I put them together. Perfect match! Now what?

Actually, this is all SU stuff, so of course it was a perfect match! But I have no idea what to do with it now. I could look at it for a week, but then I thought I'd solicit ideas from all of you! :-)

Please ignore that mangled corner. I tried white rub-ons - failed. I tried folding it up to hid the rub-ons - not too excited about that. I punched a notched corner in the folded part ... See? I need HELP!!! All ideas will be warmly received!

Update: I humbly ask you to a lot of pretending here...pretend there is no extra hole in the top corner...pretend the brads are not retired...and pretend the bottom corner is not still mangled.

Thanks to Paula I got a clue, and I went with her idea! I really like the idea of mixing the patterned papers, and I took her idea of the scallop and substituted two Sale-A-Bration sets in its place. I think when I re-do this I'll use the Teal instead of Turquoise for the scallop.

Thanks for the suggestions! What do you think?

Way late update on my Christmas cards

2008-01-30T11:13:00.001-05:00

I couldn't figure out how to edit the original post on this card so I just started a new post.

I appreciate you all so much for your comments on my Christmas card. I was under a huge time crunch to get them done and ended up making 137 Christmas cards in a period of 5 days. Whew!!

So I did try some with a darker blue and it was okay but I really liked the contrast of the Heavenly Blue against the black. On many of the cards I added a red sparkle to the circle snowflake and that looked really nice too. But I didn't have enough red to complete all of them. So the majority of them went out like this. Not my best effort but I finished them in time! Now on to Valentine day cards! But I just have a few of those to make. ; - )

P.S. I started a blog of my own. Please check it out and let me know what you think. http://www.houseostamps.wordpress.com/

Stuck, again - updated (twice)

2008-01-28T13:16:00.001-05:00

Here I am again - stuck. This card was inspired by some wallpaper I saw, and I made that the background of the card. I added the twill and top image, but aside from a sentiment - I need input on that one, too! - what does this need?

Update: Here it is with a sentiment:

I liked the suggestion of a ribbon (instead of the twill), but alas, SU does not have a Sage Shadow ribbon, and inking up the white with Sage Shadow came out too dark. Bummer.

I think I will leave it like this for now. Thanks for the feedback!

Update #2: Oooh, Happy Anniversary - I like that! I will post this with a picture of the wallpaper on my blog either tonight or tomorrow night so you can see what sent me down this path. :-)

OMG, I must be tired!

2008-01-15T21:14:00.000-05:00

Sorry, forgot to attach my picture! Duh, then I, of course, could not figure out how to edit... here goes:

ETA: Thanks for the suggestions. I will try it without the jumbo eyelet and replace with brads. Should I do ALL the circles in stripes? Fewer circles? Also, I will try the jumbo eyelet on the slit punch sometime to see if it works on the paper. That was a great idea someone had. I think I'll save that for another project though so I can SAVE my jumbo brads instead of using them all up for my SAS! Thanks again!

Jumbo eyelet or what??

2008-01-15T21:09:00.000-05:00

Hello ladies! Here is a card I have planned for an upcoming Birthday Bonanza Stamp-a-Stack. I am happy with the overall design, but am unsure of the jumbo eyelet. I wouldn't mind leaving it off since I will use up every one but 2 if I leave it (8 people times 3 cards each). However, I think I would like it better with ribbon knotted in it, but that would probably be too much with the ribbon below which I'm not sure I want to give up. Should I just remove it? Or do you like it better than the ribbon below? I've considered a few brads in a row up there instead... I've posted on SCS and not gotten any feedback whatsoever. I know you gals aren't shy so take it away...........

What does this need? (updated 01/12)

2008-01-11T20:01:00.001-05:00

I do not mean to compete with Heather's post, but while she is off pondering whether to keep the paisley or not, I finished assembling this card I made for the SCS Faux Silk challenge, and, well, it's not quite right.

The details: The white piece is the Faux Silk part. The Sage Shadow card base has the Floral Background stamped on it. The flowers were colored with Sage Shadow and Pale Plum markers on the stamp, so they are the same colors as the card stock, but they came out darker - I find the markers usually do. That little green line in the bottom left of the white piece is the end of another flower's stem, just unfortunately located. I stole the punch and ribbon-weave thing from Nicole Heady's card sample.

Any ideas?

Update 01/12: Last night I tried the Basic Gray Taffeta ribbon, then I looked at it. This morning I added the Basic Gray under-layer and I like it better.

Edited to keep from boring you with my indecision, but these are two versions I made on the way to my final one.

Update 01/12 7 pm EST: I am done! I decided more is more so I ended up with this:

Thanks for all the feedback!

Is this layout too busy? (updated 1/13/08)

2008-01-10T16:16:00.000-05:00

I am playing with the layout of my card before I stamp images (in the white circle and maybe a sentiment layered in the bottom section). I am horrible at mixing patterns- is this too busy? All of the papers are from the same collection so they are coordinated but I'm just not sure if I am going in the right direction... help

Update: 1/12/08
I listened and you were right- the bandanna panel had to go! Although I loved using a circle for the focal point, a square worked better in the final layout. I'm not sure if the traditional Gibson Girl was the best image choice for such bold design elements but it is done now. If we don't take chances we don't grow as artists.

Thank You

2008-01-07T19:41:00.000-05:00

Want to thank you for all your wonderful ideas, I tried distressing the ribbon, but for some reason this Michale's $ ribbon was not being cooperative, the brown ink looked green on the ribbon, so that had to go. I put two large eyelets on the side with a piece of brown ribbon through it. I then replaced the original ribbon with wider brown polka dot ribbon and put a thin piece of rust ribbon on top of it. I used one of the small stamps from Papertrey's word set and stamped on the ribbon. I did not use a sentiment as this is one of the cards that I am sending to my niece and I like to leave it open for her to use as she likes. The obvious birthday cards I will use sentiments on but other than that I don't. Thank you again for all your wonderful suggestions really like how this card turned out, couldn't have done it without ya. I just noticed when I uploaded the card that the button ribbon looks crooked, it isn't, really.

Creative Minds think alike

2008-01-06T21:45:00.001-05:00

I really had to laugh when I saw your Criss Cross Card. I had just finished packaging up 16 for a class I am doing.

Here is my version.

Need Help in Finishing This Card!

2008-01-06T19:15:00.000-05:00

I need your help in finishing this birthday card for my friend. I like the criss-cross card but cannot figure out whether it needs a "tab" for the insert or not. I need to put it into a medium-sized envelope so cannot have a tab that protrudes or not. Any suggestions?

Thanks for your help!

Happy 2008

2008-01-06T11:11:00.001-05:00

Well I have been busy trying to complete my niece's order for her 2008 cards, have about 30 of them made so I think I will be OK. Her birthday is January 26th, so need to complete them and mail by the 20th. I need help on this card. I cased the idea for the horses from Beate, she is good, but I don't know something just does not seem right to me with this card. Don't know if the ribbon is too bright for the distressed look of the card or if it needs to go or if I need some embellishment. Would appreciate any help, getting ready to scratch it and start over. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

What does this need?

2008-01-05T14:30:00.000-05:00

I made this for next weekend's workshops. I like the colors I used - the blue layer draws out the sponged sky, and the Kraft base ties in with the brown hair color. I purposely left the white clothing so it was not too busy. And I wanted to keep it soft because the watercoloring on watercolor paper is a soft look.

I still think it needs something, but I am not sure what. Naturally I thought about ribbon ;-) but where? Brads? Where?

Help!? Thanks!

Update: I added a Basic Gray layer (softer than Black, and I was not sure Choc Chip would work). I decided the shell in Crab & Co was too cartoon-y, so I opted for HPH with ... a bit of ribbon!

Whatdyathink?

Updates 2 & 3: I carefully pried off the glue dot under that clip and it still took a bit of the paper with it. Please ignore. The image on the left is the same as the one above minus the clip. The image on the right has some brads. I think they may still be a bit too heavy, though. Maybe a lighter color brad?

Someone commented on the size of the watercolor paper. I'll play with that next (at the risk of filling up blogger with snapshots.) ;-)

Last update - no pic: I changed out the brass brads for some soft blue ones, and I like the look. Thanks for all your input!

Too plain...

2008-01-03T14:09:00.000-05:00

Alright, I'll admit I only had 10 mins to make this card. My Mom gave me very little notice to make this card and her only prerequisties were it has to be purple and the lady who's receiving it likes butterflies. So, here it is... purple & butterfly.

I like it enough to re-make it, but what should I add to 'perk' it up?

Happy Holiday/Winter/New Year!

2007-12-27T16:25:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to say Happy Whatever-you-celebrate at this time of the year, and to thank our most gracious hostess, Heather, for coming up with this awesome idea for a blog!

I plan to continue to lurk, and post when needed, in the new year. I am grateful for all the honest feedback and great ideas I have recieved here, and I hope more people join our little group in the months to come.

Happy Happy, everyone!

Penguin adventures - done!

2007-12-22T15:10:00.000-05:00

I am playing with my Cat's Pajama's penguins stamp, and I am not sure if I am going in the right direction or not.

First I did this one. For that magical third color I added some Mike's ribbon that had some Teal in it, then used some Teal in the hats. The card is an A Muse 4 1/4 square that I mounted on a 4 1/4 x 5 1/2 piece of card stock so it will fit in a standard A2 envelope without sliding around.

Then I remembered seeing the penguins used separately, so I stamped them separately (they are too close to just stamp once then punch - too bad!) and followed the same theme - A Muse card on a 4 1/4 x 5 1/2 piece of Olive card stock.

Next I used a different A Muse card and mounted it on Blue Bayou, and used a different Mike's ribbon.

I think I like the first one the best. I am seeking opinions on "together versus apart" and also my idea of the A2 base for the A Muse card. Of course, feel free to comment on any other element of these mock-ups. Thanks!

Update 12/23: Thanks for the feedback! Here are versions 4 & 5, one with a blue rectangle and one with green. I tried the green because the blue-on-blue seemed boring. What do you think? Closer?

Update later 12/23: I guess I should have called this a Card Evolution! I had a DUH moment, and decided since I could not make up my mind between Green or Blue, I did both! Gotta layer! Below is my final version.

One final note: The Cuttlebug and I had a little disagreement with the Nestabilities, so this version is straight layers...no scallops. Ah, well. Thanks for all the feedback!

What's wrong with the monogram?

2007-12-17T14:22:00.000-05:00

I love the idea of a monogram on this notepad holder but I just can't get it to work. I tried a solid olive too but it seemed blah.

So what kind of a monogram do I need- smaller? and should it be plain or patterned? And should it be somewhere other than the center?

12/21/2007
Here is the after! Thanks for the help

So I had this idea ... (updated 12/16)

2007-12-15T13:37:00.001-05:00

I had to see if these circles were 3/4 inches - and they were! So I had this idea that I could punch them out and raise up a few of them, and I did! Then, as usual, I got stuck. I added the strip of dots on the brown ribbon, then I added the buckle, but I think if I tie a knot it will be just as good. It needs a sentiment, but besides that, what's wrong with this? It needs something... help?

Quick update: I just added a red layer, and I think it helps, but it still needs something. What shape do you think I should use for a sentiment? Or should I stamp it directly on the paper?

Update 12/16: Thanks for the feedback! I removed the three circles, and to counteract the straight lines, I added a loopy sentiment, and it's not even Christmas-related! I also swapped out the buckle for a knot. What do you think?

Too harsh?

2007-12-13T07:12:00.000-05:00

The following is a comment posted by frequent visitor Paula Kay:

"Moderator.....I am still pretty new to this list so I would like to ask some questions.

Am I being to critical? I thing a lot of times the difference between a good card and a great card is layering. It makes such a dramatic difference. I do not wish to hurt anyone or step on toes. I have noticed that most answers do not really take it as far as I do. Am I wrong in doing so.

I want to be a good stamper and truly want honesty on my card critique but maybe I am being to harsh.....

Please.....give some guidelines to all on the list.

Maybe do a questionnaire type post to see what is really wanted or needed? Thanks so very much for your time."

Chris needs suggestions for 130 Christmas cards!

2007-12-12T11:04:00.001-05:00

Our newest member Chris needs some suggestions for her holiday cards. Because Chris is new to blogging, I am posting this for her (at her request!):

"I would like to get some ideas or suggestions on my Christmas card. I
need to send 130 of them so it has to be fairly simple. And quick! I
wanted to use baby blue and either black or chocolate for my cards. I
hope you can give me some ideas. This is a bit outside of my box as I
usually don't like a ton of white space as I have on this card. You
can't see it in the picture but the colored cardstock has pin dots in
the top and bottom."

Recipe:
All supplies Close To My Heart
Playful Flourishes stamp set
Winter Reflections stamp set
Jingle Borders stamp set
Sparkles
Heavenly Blue cardstock and stamp pad
Black cardstock and marker
Or Chocolate cardstock and marker"

Rescue me! (Rescue was a success!)

2007-12-07T12:59:00.000-05:00

Help me! I am an unattached card looking for a new image. My owner (a very beautiful and talented artist in her own right) has tried a large bold rose, a smaller bold rose, a daisy and my current image. We just aren't sure what style or type of flower would work best with me (we own LOTS flower images). We really like the rest of me but we are willing to make changes for the same of art!
PS I also like pina coladas, getting caught in the rain, I'm not into health food but I'm into champagne!
12/08/07- Completed card on the right for a tutorial on my blog

Two-fer - UPDATED!

2007-12-06T21:26:00.000-05:00

I decided to go for a two-fer! Two ideas in one post. :-)

First, this is yet another (and my last!) version of this card - I changed the layers for the sentiment. Fewer layers, and the red is more prominent. Done!

Update: I also thought I'd give the ladies the option of hanging a thread around one of the shrimp's necks with a little bell on it. Too much? Ya think? ;-)

This is the card that needs help! I need a fifth project for this weekend's classes, and I decided to do a snow theme instead of Christmas. I thought I'd try the suspended image in the window, and I really like it.

The "typically me" part is where I get the colors right and the technique seems to work, but I have no clue how to finish the card!

Any ideas? The paper is pretty busy, and I'd like the focus to be the suspended image.

FYI - Base is Soft Sky, snowflake is stamped on Whisper White with Sage Shadow ink, punched out with the snowflake punch, frame layer in the window is Basic Gray (all by SU).

Thanks!

UPDATE! I added some vertical ribbon, red glitter in the center of the snowflake (my customers will be using a glue dot instead of 2-way glue so theirs is actually round ...), and a sentiment stamped in Basic Gray.

I decided to not overload them with additional glitter on the snowflakes ... one mess is enough!

Thanks for the great ideas!

Which one? - Updated!

2007-12-04T21:37:00.000-05:00

I like this card, but I am not so sure about the layers of punches with the sentiment. Nothing is nailed down yet, but I do plan to put gold brads in the oval to embellish the sentiment.

Then I thought instead I'd "fold down" the corner and use the Round Tab punch for the sentiment instead. Again, it will have gold brads holding it in place.

Which do you like better? Or is there a third option? (Of course there is! LOL!) OMG, I just realized I did not use any ribbon ... yet. ;-)

Here's my updated version:

In addition to sticking eveything down, I put in the brads and added some glitter to the shrimps' antennae. Do you think it will pass muster for a class this weekend?

Following the Holiday Trend Before... and After

2007-12-04T14:54:00.001-05:00

I really, really like the "forest of trees made with DP" style holiday cards that have been posted all over the place. This is my attempt.

I think I have the right idea and I like how the moon reflects on the dusting of snow on the ground but I'm wondering if the DP on my trees is too boring?

Go ahead- do your thing with my card!

Update: 12/05/07 12:30pm
Here is the new and improved version. I made my snow brighter, chose some bolder patterned paper, skinnier tree trunks, a smaller moon and some bling for the treetops! Thanks for the help!

Snowman update

2007-12-03T18:06:00.001-05:00

Alrighty, here are the finished cards. I may actually make a few more like this and maybe some red and green ones with a tree instead of a snowman! Thanks for all of your comments.

Original card here

Card Box

2007-12-01T00:02:00.000-05:00

I found this pattern for a really cute card box and I gave it a try, but I'm just not sure about it. The base of the box is old olive, but I'm wondering if I should have used Really Rust instead. I sponged all of the edges with Really Rust and then added faux stitching with my Chocolate Chip pen.

I'm not sure if the strip of DSP around the top of the box is too "clean" looking--in other words there's too much white in it. I tried to tone it down by adding ribbon.

I don't know. What do you think? Am I just being too picky and it looks fine? Or does it really need some work? Please be honest. Thanks!

Dannie Graves

Updated Kristin Card

2007-11-30T19:07:00.000-05:00

I told Kristin I'd post my version of her card. I added a red layer and some green faux stitching around the blue panel. Hey, I still think it is an awesome card (whether or not you like my version)!

I have a craft show tomorrow, so I will be dropping off the face of the cyber-world for a while.... Anyone in Montgomery County, MD - come out to the Bauer Drive Community Center in Rockville and shop till you drop! ;-) [shameless plug, I know.]

OK, what do you think?

2007-11-29T19:44:00.000-05:00

Here's the new and improved version... or is it??

Snowflake Window

2007-11-29T18:06:00.000-05:00

Well, I redid the last one I posted using wintergreen striped paper in place of the blue piece, but it's still not workingn for me so I'm moving on! So, this is what I'm starting. I have used acetate between the layers to suspend the snowflake on (one on each side- offset). I like the window idea and the snowflake in there, but something is missing. Still trying to keep this simple for the large stamp camp I'm doing so I'm trying my hardest to avoid another layer (like where the sentiment is). Does this just need some ribbon and be done with it? Where would you put it? Do you like the colors? I'm avoiding the blue bayou/soft sky combo because I've done that for antoher card. I know this isn't the best picture, but the cardbase is Wild Wasabi and the snowflakes are stamped in bayou and sky...

Oh crud, I just realized I should not even use those colors because then we'll have to share inkpads between projects and I really don't think that would work. Do you have any other colors to suggest? I'm not set on the wasabi... just trying it. What about a kraft base with a ballet blue or brilliant blue snowflake?

Sorry, I'm going on and on...

Am I on the right track?

2007-11-29T12:02:00.000-05:00

I only have 1 of this much coveted chipboard bracket. So before I start painting/ altering it, I need to know if I am on the right track as far as my layout. I am happy with the background and the focal image, but I am just not sure what to do with the empty space so I tried the bracket. I am open to any and all changes because nothing is nailed down (or glued down!)

I have tossed 14 cards in the last 2 days because they either had a critical error (smudging, mis-cut, etc.) or they were just so bad and so ugly that I put them out of their misery. Please help me get my mojo back!

UPDATE 12-02-2007
I took this in a different direction. Definitely improvement! Thanks for your help.

Here goes...

2007-11-27T20:52:00.001-05:00

So, I have a customer who requested I do a "private stamp camp" for her guests this Saturday, doing all Christmas cards. The price point she chose was 5 simple cards and 1 elaborate card for $13. This is one of the cards I designed for her camp which I'm now having second thoughts about.

I really don't want to add too much detail or layers because I'm trying to keep it simple... Oh, and I plan to NOT include the rhinestone brad in the sample I show them (uh, not making enough to give out those precious gems, besides there will be 25 ladies at this thing!).

If this looks familiar, I already posted it to SCS a while back. My suddenly questioning it may have to do with the fact that I designed it so long ago and am just sick of looking at it. Ever happen to anyone else??

By the way, I am totally willing to set this aside and just start over. This is why I usually procrastinate... because I get bored with stuff I did over a week ago!

Thanks in advance, you gals have great input!

Well, here's the second version with Wintergreen. I'm still not sure. I'd like it all without the red flower, but I'm not sure what else to put there... Oh well, I'm moving on to the other design for Saturday. TFL!

{What do you think? }

2007-11-27T13:06:00.000-05:00

Good morning everyone. My name is Tracy and thanks to my friend Nancy...I found this great site. I know for one that there is always that card that you just get stuck on and need some expert advise ;0) So here is mine. I have not actually posted this one on my blog yet...cause it needs something. Maybe I should have made the base card bigger? What do you think? Honestly!

New Here

2007-11-27T09:33:00.002-05:00

Hi All... my name is Nancy and you can find my blog at Nancy's Creative Mess. I was just approved this morning to take part here at Stamping Critique. What a neat idea.

I posted this card on my blog the other day and while I love the idea of the card, I don't like the card.

I'd appreciate any suggestions!

edit to add: the white dots are Liquid Pearl dots.

My turn... help please!

2007-11-26T23:14:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone!

Thanks again for the fabulous idea of this blog.

Here's my card, and please give me some honest advice. I cannot stand this card, I like the color combo, but just can't deal w/ the blah-ness.

Help, help, help!

Critique My Card!

2007-11-26T21:14:00.000-05:00

I think it is ok for me to post this card and ask for suggestions. But first let me say what an awesome idea this blog is.

I NEED and want help and would like honest feedback!!

I would like this card to be more "special" -- I like it, but don't LOVE it. Any ideas??

I have no idea if my signature appears below this post so I'll say who I am.

Joan, JoanB on splitcoast and www.paperlicious.typepad.com

Snowman Quandry

2007-11-26T00:38:00.000-05:00

I always have trouble with snowmen and blue and white Christmas cards, so I don't know why I bother. I thought this combination might work but it needs something. That's a line of glittered glue (not glitter glue) along the curve in the center and the snowman is embossed with Diamond Sparkle embossing powder. The cardstock for the card itself, and the largest scallop circle, is light blue Bazzill Bling.
Revised card here
I'm open to suggestions! Should I just stick with the traditional colors and quit beating myself over the head with blue and white?? Thanks :-)

Heavy Metal - Opinions, please

2007-11-25T12:10:00.000-05:00

Happy Sunday back at ya!

I started this project a few days ago, then put it aside. I got this far today, then stopped because I think it needs something else, but I am not sure what.

I plan to call it Heavy Metal, because it weighs a ton! I saw the clip tree on SCS, and decided start with that, but to kick it up a bit with some brads from my stash.

I thought I'd play up the purple brads by putting a purple ribbon under the red and green layers, but it looked stupid. Any other ideas? Besides dis-assembling it, that is!

Thanks!

Update: I performed some minor surgery to remove the snowflake brad and replaced it with a bow.

I used a cream ribbon with a gold edge, the better to blend in to the background, but still add a soft touch.

FYI, I am not ignoring the other suggestions, but the way this card evolved (a cheap pack o'circle clips from Staples and a cheap pack o'brads from who-knows-where, and me trying to use up all of them), I do not really have the option of using all the same color brad on one card. Sooo, I've gotta work with what it is, which is why I mixed 'em up. And me, being a little @nal, I had to line them up as evenly as possible on top of the clips. ;-)

This is one with all rust-colored circle clips, where the one above has dark blue. Somewhere lurks one with the olive clips. A totally different look, I think.

Anyway, I am open for more suggestions, including "toss it!" I have a craft show this weekend, and if these can be saved, they will go into sleeves and be inventoried. Otherwise, into the scrap heap.

Happy Sunday!

2007-11-25T10:24:00.000-05:00

Hope you all enjoyed holidays dinners and some shopping! A reminder about posting- it doesn't need to be a "finished" creation-- asking about colors, patterns, stamps, embellishments, etc as a part of a project is just fine ;) Everybody has an opinion!

Those Darn Corners!

2007-11-22T18:21:00.000-05:00

I made a bunch of these yesterday, and decided to try one with this Psychadelic (sp?) paper. The Parent Sheet is huge and it makes my eyes swim! I love the colors, so I gave it a shot.

All the other ones I made (you can see them in my SCS gallery) have green in the paper, so I stamped some holly in the top corners to fill them in. THIS one, however, is just purple and yellow, and I did not think anything green would work.

As you can see, I opted for some doodling around the edge, which I liked, but those darn corners still looked bare. I ended up just using my Elegant Eggplant marker and the Paper Piercing template to make some dots.

I am not happy with the result. I thought about using brads or something, but the star at the top of the tree kinda killed that. Any other ideas? Thanks!

PS: Could the original poster please tell us how she got the picture so large? This is one of my struggles ... thanks! ;-)

UPDATE:

I have redone the card, incorporating some of the great suggestions. Please ignore the smudges ... I have a bandaid on one of my fingers, and it messes up everything I touch. I think I'll wrap my left arm in plastic before I touch any more card stock.

ANYway, the tree is on Eggplant, the next layer is Shimmer Gold, and I wrapped some gold cord in the left corner and tied it into a bow. The bow is held in place by a balled-up glue dot (now you should understand the smudges ...). That whole thing is layered on more Eggplant, then the base is Barely Banana. I gold-embossed the sentiment in the bottom right corner to balance the bow.

Am I closer?

BTW, I thought it was a better idea to update my original post than to start another one, just to keep my versions together. What do you all think about this idea?

Merry Christmas

2007-11-22T12:01:00.000-05:00

I made this late last night and am not sure if it works or not. I love the red and green flower and had no idea that suede paper would look so gorgeous run through a CB embossing folder, but it's the sentiment I am not sure about. What do you think??

Here we go!

2007-11-21T10:20:00.000-05:00

This is not a finished card (or even close). I am trying to develop a prototype sketch for some holiday cards. I like the 3 ornaments and thought the card needed something in the upper left corner... So as far as the layout goes- would this be better without the snowflakes in the corner? PS I know my ornaments are missing hangers... they will be added in the next version. I'm trying to figure out if my center ornament is too heavy and just not working.

Here is an improved version, incorporating some of the great suggestions I received (thanks), but I have made an observation about myself: I simply HATE to make Christmas cards. While you would never know it at it- I spent 2 hours on that revised card- and I still don't like it much. but I learned something from the process-- I am going to stop kidding myself- I simply HATE the holidays.

Update!

2007-11-20T12:03:00.000-05:00

So far so good- several artists have contacted me to accept the challenge to improve their art and critiquing skills! Those who have sent me (Heather) an e-mail have been sent an invitation to join the blog so they can post their art to the blog. And as someone asked- you will only be able to edit your own posts.

Feel free to link to this blog in your blog.

If anyone has a desire to create a blog banner, I would love to add it to the list of "ways to beautify the blog!"

Does anyone have any ideas for tags? Maybe keep it simple like: card or scrapbook, artist name? Let me know what you think.

Welcome to Stamping Critique

2007-11-13T16:21:00.000-05:00

After blogging (posting and reading) blogs for over 2 years, I have become cynical. Is a card or scrapbook page good because 5, 10, 15 or 30 people gush about how good it is? Or is a piece not so good if it doesn't get any comments? So I started the Stamping Critique blog.

How honest are we commenting on our cyber friend's blogs? What if you had a place to post your artwork so people could honestly comment on the good, the not quite as good or a place to request help or suggestions for improving your artwork.

What if you had a place where you could comment and give your honest feedback- good and not so good about your fellow artist's work? A place to provide constructive criticism to your fellow paper artists. Please send a request to join to: stamping.critique@gmail.com