Just Us Chickens... and a Perfect Pair

Today I have a  more masculine card for you, one we sent my dad for Fathers Day.  I know a lot of people have trouble making cards for men, but it's easier than you might think!  First, pick an image of something your recipient enjoys, be it motorcycles, camping, or chickens!  (My dad was a farmer until he retired, hence the chicken...)

Once you have your image, the key is to keep it simple - few colors and patterns, and minimal (or even no) embellishments.  Since my image was a little futzy, I opted for no embellishments.  I used a screen and pounced on some ink similar to my card base for a subtle pattern, then layered on a stripe in colors that reminded me of the colors in a rooster.  I colored in the image using Copic markers, added a simple mat in a brighter color to make the image stand out more, and that was it.

Here are the markers I used:

FYI, the paper I used was from a Halloween pack - proof that the colors and patterns you're looking for may not always be where you expect them!  Here's a picture of a layout I previously made with the same papers:

Right now, through July 5, you can get a Perfect Pair of the paper pack and the felt shapes free with a qualifying purchase.  And all month long, there will be additional Perfect Pairs available for a few days at a time.  I will be trying to have a new project made for each of them, so be sure to stop by and check them out.  Here are the full details on what will be available and when:

Place an online order of $75 or more in July and we’ll send you a popular paper packet and coordinating accessory—a Perfect Pair—for free! That’s a retail value of up to $17.90! Different Perfect Pairs are available on different dates throughout the month so you’ll want to place more than one qualifying order to snatch several Perfect Pairs. Place your order early in the availability period, as the promotion is while supplies last.

Offer valid July 1–31, 2012. While supplies last. Additional shipping/handling and tax may apply. Discounted products do not count toward a qualifying purchase.

Order      Perfect                                                                                           Original
Dates       Pair                                                                                        Retail Value
7/1–5       Mischief Paper Packet (X7144B) and Midnight Felt Shapes (Z1462)  $15.90
7/6–10     Dreamin' Paper Packet (X7142B) and Harvest Charms (Z1633)          $14.90
7/11–15   Fanfare Paper Packet (X7138B) and Level 2 Asst (Z1400)                  $17.90
7/16–20   Lucky Paper Packet (X7137B) and My Stickease® Asst (X7137C)    $17.90
7/21–25   Mayberry Paper Pack (X7136B) and My Stickease® Asst (X7136C)  $17.90
7/26–29   Sophia Paper Packet (X7131B) and My Stickease® Asst (X7131C)    $17.90
7/30–31   Believe Paper Packet (X7145B) and Holiday Pockets (Z1486) OR
                Wonderland Paper Pack (X7146B) and My Stickease® Asst (X7146C)$14.90


If you would like to create an online Gathering and earn Hostess Rewards while you shop, just drop me an email.  I can get you set up right away and all you have to do is use the simple EZinvite tool to invite your friends to shop online!  If you'd rather shop on your own, just drop by my website and look around.  If you choose to shop with me, THANK YOU! Your purchases allow my 11yo daughter, 9yo daughter, and 7yo son to participate in choir, orchestra, and soccer (respectively) this year.


Thanks for stopping by today; I hope to see you again soon!