ISMAKI Challenge #13

One of many things I love about the world of blogging is that there are so many very creative and talented artists who share not only their art, but also their talent for creating challenges from all around the world. It costs nothing to participate and has challenged me to get out of my little box and explore other avenues of expression for my stamping and cardmaking.

Each Monday on ISMAKI website there is a new sketch challenge. They are very challenging for me but I always look at the art shared by other card makers worldwide. This is the sketch that Petra provided for this week's challenge:

I decided to use another stamp from my new Stampin' Up! set called "Bloomin' Beautiful" as the focal point for this sketch. I watercolored the flower with Tombow markers. Next I got out my Cuttlebug and really put it to use using the flourish swirl die cut, embossing folder with swiss dots, and to punch the little "joy" circle with my smallest Nestibilities circle die. I used the Martha Stewart embossing border punch for the edging next to the image. Then I added some prima flowers, some Hero Arts pink gemstones and some Anna Griffin designer paper.

This was fun but not a style I'm very comfortable with creating. Nevertheless, I enjoy the challenge and stepping out of my comfort zone.