Thursday, April 10, 2014

One small step...

I've tried stenciling. I totally sucked at it. I mean really, really sucked at it. The stencils moved, the inks were uneven, the colors stunk, and the whole image looked AWFUL. What a waste of paper, or so I thought. There were sooooooo many gorgeous stenciled cards out there, and I was longing to give it another go. Then (duh!) I started watching some of the stenciling videos. (Oh Laura Bassen, you are a saint!) Was there hope for me???? And I started remembering things too...like Geri's advice: "Start your project with clean hands." And the carpenter's or cook's rule: "Use the right tool for the right job." Hmmmmm.... Sometimes, making do with what you've got just doesn't cut it. So I thought I might try this stencil thing again. Especially after seeing what was up on Virginia's View Challenge. Oh what the heck! After a morning's running errands with DH, and a trip to Michaels for some PROPER supplies, I got to thinking that it just might work. Then....I got ambitious. Not a good idea for a beginner. You won't see my first card here. It's not as bad as it could be, but it's something I want to use as a comparison when my stenciling gets better. Maybe later I'll post it. (But don't hold your breath...)




Decided to go with a simple, yet appealing to me stencil. I cut a journal card with my Cameo on some cardstock, after enlarging it a bit. Added some bits and bobs, and there you have it:




Simple stencil. Worked for me. Neenah white base, Studio G ink for the stencil, Ranger ink with the N&T "you are" part of my sentiment. SU flower and leaf, MME enamel dots, and SC sequins. The pinks are a pretty medium color, but look almost orange or 'hot' in the photo. So sorry.... It's a sweet card irl. And just in case you're interested, you can see my first post of today here. Happy dances everyone.

14 comments:

Joyce said...

Fabulous stencil card. You look like you are a pro already.

Ardyth said...

Oh you make me laugh! I'm so glad - I haven't even tried stenciling for this exact reason. When I saw Laura's cards, I couldn't believe there wasn't even one little smudge. I just know that stencilling is not for me. However, you've made a good start - next it will be you making the videos!!

Lynn said...

I'm with you on stenciling scaring me. I gave it a go with a cover die and it worked out, but I don't think I can work up the courage to try embossing paste! I'm too impatient and often have very inky fingers! I think your card is gorgeous Bev. Love the pink and green!

Jacquie Southas said...

This looks like the work of a pro Bev! I have learned the hard way that securing my stencil AND paper and using small sponge daubers work wonders for getting the effect I want.

Kim Heggins said...

You are just too funny! I just bought 3 stencils and have not been brave enough to play with them, fearing the same results as you. But after reading your post you have inspired me to give it a go. I love your card and you are just so clever to make you very own with your Silhouette, you are amazing!

Virginia L. said...

I thoroughly enjoy reading your creative process! This card truly is lovely in every way! The stenciled sentiment is perfect with your CAS design! So glad that you join the fun over Virginia's View Challenge! PS: Remember...you learn more than what you set out to do, so you already WON half of the battle! Way to rock this stencil challenge, Bev! I so appreciate your sharing the process with us! VERY inspiring you are!

Deepti said...

Yay!! For trying out something new but I must say I absolutely adore ur sentiment stenciling idea, what a super card :)

Darnell said...

Good for you for tackling and accomplishing this newest stamping trend, Bevie! I'm staying clear of it, but I sure like what you made!! Hugs, Darnell

wienerhoneymooners said...

Funny! You are too funny! This is wonderful!

Geri said...

One small step....totally in the right direction! Great post - you are just too funny! Good on you girl for giving this trend a whirl! Awesome results - great design! BTW, the pink looks lovely - not at all hot.



Bobby said...

Maybe I'm nuts but I love stenciling. I think you did well for your almost first try. The secret? Lots of painter's tape and slow motion. Give it another try. It will grow on you.

Anita in France said...

Well, this looks as though you're an expert, Bev ... it's all so precise and perfectly crisp ... and the colours are gorgeous together! I predict lots more use of those 'proper' supplies ... please?! Hugs, Anita :)

cm said...

Oh, how happy I am to know that I'm in good company with stencil no-go, as well as some stencil-phobia! So admire your willingness to step in (I'm sloooowly moving in that direction - I have one stencil), and your results, as others have noted, are pro-quality! Gorgeous card!! Your stencil is a lovely start, and I predict we'll be seeing more stencil art from you; after all, you have the tools, and the creativity!! Love your post; love your card! I'm off to watch some of Laura's videos... Hugs~c

Kylie said...

I avoided stencils and mists because I didn't like the thought of getting all messy. lol It is so worth it though - as you have demonstrated here with your beautiful card!