Hang in There

Here's my card for the current Paper Smooches Sparks challenge.  I used this week's sketch to create a whimsical card with an encouraging message.

To represent the curved panel on the left side of the sketch, I hand cut a tree trunk from brown cardstock.  After running it through my die cutting machine with a woodgrain impression plate, I rubbed it with some distress inks to bring out the pattern, then set it on a light blue card base with some green gingham patterned paper grass along the bottom.

The cute little squirrel (the only cute one as far as I'm concerned!) from the Hang Ups stamp set hangs from one of the tree's branches.  I colored the image with Copic markers and added white flock to its tail for a fluffy look.  The set's "hang in there" sentiment is stamped on a green strip and set over the gingham patterned grass.

If you're looking to add more Paper Smooches sets to your collection, be sure to stop by i {heart} papers for a great selection.  And, don't miss IHP's HUGE Pre-CHA clearance sale July 11-21.  Here are all the details:   Use coupon code CHA2012DT for 25% off your order of $50 or more! The sale is storewide and includes paper, Copics & refills, stamps, ribbon, everything! And still, as always, free US shipping with your $60 order!

Materials Used:
from i {heart} papers:  Paper Smooches Hang Ups stamp set, X-Press white Copic blending cardstock, Tsukineko Memento Tuxedo Black ink, Copic markers (C-1, C-3, C-5, R20, B0000), Lily Bee Designs Double Dutch Tiny Tablet, Stampendous Cotton Ball White flock


other:  Bashful Blue, Kiwi Kiss, and Creamy Caramel cardstock (Stampin' Up!); Tea Dye, Antique Linen, and Faded Burlap distress inks (Ranger); grass border punch (Martha Stewart); woodgrain impression plate (Papertrey Ink)