Tis That Season

No it's not "The Season" yet but it's that season between Halloween and Thanksgiving when I put my nose to the grindstone and start cranking out my Christmas cards. I've managed to finish 4 different designs so far. Normally I do about 6 different designs in multiples of 8 but this year I came up with so many ideas that I am making 2 of each until my mind runs dry and then I'll make more of my favorites.

It all begins with a sketch. I toss all the newest stamps, papers, ribbons, dies, embossing folders etc. onto my workbench then pick up my pencil and my notebook and sketch out what I am going to do with it all. I add notations as to which stamp, paper or whatever I have in mind for each particular sketch because nothing is more frustrating then having a whole project worked out in my head only to have it gone the next time I open my book and look at the sketch.

As I actually create the card, I record measurements, colors, supplies etc. on the sketch in case I want to recreate it later. I use scratch paper from my printer when testing dimentions so I don't waste any of the good stuff or at least that is the plan. It doesn't always work that way. I took this photo just to show everyone that my work area does get messy. It doesn't always look like it does here.

Here I am testing a layout before I actually apply the adhesive just in case I need to do any last minute adjustments. Those are my thumb braces to the left of the layout board. They aren't doing much good sitting there instead of being on my hands. Looks like I'll be getting my money's worth when I have my surgery in January.

Til next time...