When you make as many Christmas cards as I do, OLCs (one-layer cards) are particularly appealing. They are generally fast, easy to reproduce, and just, well, easy.
Simplicity Tip: When making OLCs, quality cardstock is a MUST! When you only have one layer, flimsy cardstock just doesn't cut it. I use Papertrey Ink's stampers select white or vintage cream or kraft paper, and I hear that Gina K's cardstock is also very high quality. I buy PTI paper in bulk. That way, I don't feel bad if I mess up. I just flip it over and use it for layers on other cards.
The card above works really well because of that yummy chocolate ribbon sent to me by Ali Manning in a bag of blog candy. Love it! The stamp, from SU!'s Sleigh Bells Ring set, looks great colored in by other stampers, but not by me. So I just stamp it in a festive color and let it stand uncolored. So easy!
The second card uses several shades of soft purple chalk ink and PTI's Snowflake Serenade set. The clear rhinestones bling it up a bit. These flakes beg for bling, don't you think?
Finally, this kraft card is super simple and definitely looks better in real life. The photo looks a tad flat, but the PTI vintage cream ink looks fab, and the sheer ribbon with its satin border gives a nice balance to the card. The stamp is from Snowflake Spots, a discontinued set from SU!. The sentiment is from PTI's Take a Bough, I think.
Hope you enjoy these! If you want more details, check my SCS gallery later today.
these are gorgeous! I love how you make simple cards look FABULOUS! Way to go!
ReplyDeleteI really need to try this paper I hear so much about it! I love the cards! Esp. like the one with all the pretty BLING! Have a Wonderful Day! Hugs...Cookie :)
ReplyDeleteOkay, you are my CAS idol!!! I was just thinking about Christmas card ideas yesterday...you've definitely inspired me!
ReplyDeleteGasp! These are all stunning. I love the kraft snawflake, but I like the white snowflake one also.
ReplyDeleteI totally hear you on the coloring thing. I tend to stay away from line art and go more for solid images. But you rocked that stamp.
Can't even pick a favorite...all three are gorgeous! You are sooo good, making Christmas cards already!
ReplyDeleteTFS!
Beautiful cards, I love the snowflake one.
ReplyDeleteSometimes I still can't grasp how really lovely a card can be when it's only one layer, but you proved it three times. I like the ruffled bow on the first card and the jewels on the second card but the third is my fave because I love the contrast of the rustic kraft card base against the elegant organza ribbon. Great tip on the cardstock.
ReplyDeleteFab cards, Susan! That's a great tip about the card stock - quality counts!
ReplyDeleteI don't even like kraft, but I LOVE the last card! The one snowflake is perfect! The ribbon is perfect! The fancy ribbon against the kraft is perfect! It is just beautiful!
ReplyDeleteYpur Christmas cards are great!! I like good quality cardstock too, however my printer does not!! :o(
ReplyDelete