Papercraft Challenge #22...

Hi! I am here today with a new challenge at the Papercraft Challenge blog. We have a new challenge on the first of every month. You should also visit the Papercraft Business site that has great tools that can help you take your papercraft business to the next level. Do check out the awesome Papercraft Business Planner that helps you keep track of your challenges.

The theme for September is - There’s a Bear in There! You can use any kind of bear from teddy bears to polar bears to panda.

I was a bit worried because cutesy critter cards are not my thing at all! I don’t have stamp sets in this style and I am very nervous about colouring critter images. But that is part of the fun of being on a design team. You have to stretch yourself to learn new techniques. So I pulled out an old set by Mudra Craft Stamps and my Zigs and got to work. Here is the card I made.

• Stamp the bear image from the Bear Friends stamp set by Mudra Craft Stamps on some watercolour paper.  Ink the stamp with a dark brown Zig. The idea is to get a no-line watercolour look. Stamping with the Zig marker gives a clear outline which will naturally blend with the colouring.
• Use three shades of brown and a damp brush to colour the bear. 
• Use shades of pink for the snout and the ears.
• Once the panel is dry, add outlines and details with the dark brown Zig marker. 

Here is a closer look at the bear.

• Mask the bear and create the landscape by blending green and brown distress inks over paper masks. Use shades of blue for the sky.
• The stamp set has a tuft of grass. Ink it with a dark green Zig marker and stamp. Add a little shading and a few flowers with Zigs.

• Stamp the sentiment on some vellum with Versafine Onyx Black ink and heat emboss with clear embossing powder. 
• Trim the sentiment panel and staple it to the stamped and coloured panel.
• Adhere it to a green card base over a black mat.

Here is another look at the card.

I hope my card inspires you to create something beautiful. Do remember to check out the Papercraft Challenge blog for inspiration from the rest of the design team. There are lots of cute creations that you will love! 

The winning prize: Whimsy Stamps – Celebration Pennants

You can get more information about Papercraft Challenge Planner here. It is an invaluable tool for all crafters who love taking part in challenges. The Papercraft Business site also has tools that can help you take your papercraft business to the next level. 

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Love,

Nandini