Back to Papercrafting

I tend to hoard my prettiest papers.
 This time, I tried to just jump in and start cutting into my Tim Holtz vellum collection.
After the initial slice, it was easier to proceed!

It had been way too long since I sat down at my workbench and enjoyed making cards, journals and other papercraft-related things. Why? I'm not sure of the reason. I'd venture to guess it was partly due to the shock and stagnation that was brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, but other than that.  . . I'm not sure. In conversations with other people who are makers or creatives, I've learned that it's not all that unusual to just stop delving into a particular interest, whether it be a gradual or a sudden change. That information has been freeing for me. Instead of beating myself up for my creative shortcomings, I'm trying to accept them as a typical thing in my life. Over my lifetime, I've pursued many hobbies, such as sewing, crocheting, knitting, quilting, beading, embroidering, flower arranging, wreath making, drawing, altered art and probably a few more that I've forgotten about. I used to knit one project every winter . . .  usually a warm scarf. I'd try to learn a new stitch or a more complicated pattern and a scarf is a perfect size on which to practice. It's been a few years, though, since I've picked up my knitting needles, even though I have some beautiful yarn and a pattern that I bought several years ago at a yarn shop while on vacation.🧵🧶📿🧣🖌✍

I found this lace and burlap Tim Holtz dress form die cut hiding in my stash.
I thought it would be pretty on this little note card, along with some bling.
I used more of the Tim Holtz vellum inside. 

Having delved into so many things over the years and amassing the inventory of materials and tools required for each new obsession, I have A LOT of stuff in my studio. One of my goals is to use the things I have on hand before buying more. My studio is overflowing with opportunities!

I used the "Once Upon A Time" card stack by DCWV for this little note card.

To that end, I pulled out a few tablets of scrapbooking paper a couple of weeks ago, dug out my inks and bling and made some cards. Surprisingly, the method came right back to me and I was able to get a few cards made, which are in the photos interspersed in this post. As I dig out more tools and materials, I'll make more intricate designs, which is my preference. But these were a good start and I felt good to be back at my work bench. 🖼🎨👩‍🎨

The weatherman is predicting that today will be a snowy day. What a gift! I think I'll stay inside and carry on with making some cards and maybe tonight I'll get my knitting basket out. March has traditionally a time of creativity for me. Let this month be no exception! 🧶

Beckoning springtime with this card made with DCWV's "The Botanicals Stack" floral paper.
I can write a message on the butterfly insert. 🦋

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to read this post. As always, your questions and comments are welcome here on my blog or in the comments on my Facebook page. You can click on the photos to enlarge them for a closer look. 👁👁

Another butterfly from the DCWV "The Botanicals Stack" collection with pretty flowers inside.
I like all the pretty papers!

It is my sincere wish that you and those you love are happy and healthy. And until we meet again, may the Lord hold you in the hollow of His hand.

Emmy