On the 10th day of christmas.....

welcome! If you are like me, christmas has rushed upon us and there are so many last minute things to do including sending out those greeting cards! Nothing is nicer than getting a handmade card but we all know that these take a lot of time and effort - something we don't have at the moment. Don't worry, todays project will take you only 2 hours, and give you 12 sparkly, spunky cards to give out to loved ones this christmas, and in plenty of time to post them!!!

if you click on these images, they will expand bigger so that you can get a closer look at each one. they are all based on 3 sketches....

the idea for this project is to create a bit of a production line. Its made easy using the sketches, and a matching set of papers.

1. begin by choosing 3 double sided papers and 3 matching sheets of 12 x 12 cardstock.

2. cut out all your journal cards and choose 12 that you would like to use.

3. cut your matting from the cardstock. cut 4 from each sheet, measuring 14cm x 9.5 cm. this should give you 12 rectangles

4.cut your patterned background from the double sided papers, measuring 13.5cm x 9cm. cut 4 of these from each of your double sided papers. this will in turn give you 6 different patterns, 2 of each.

5.Now lay out your silver Kaisercraft cards on a table. Next lay out your cardstock matting onto each of the cards. Then lay out your pattern paper backgrounds onto these.

6.Using the leftover cardstock scraps, mat your journal cards. You will probably want to only leave a small border on each and plan out which journal card will match the background papers so that you can have the same matting on your journal card as on your finished card.

7.Now follow the sketches, using the leftover scraps of the pattern paper to add in the extra layers in the sketch. Don't overthink it.... this is the advantage of using the same line of papers because they will all match!

8.Finish off with ribbon, strings and sentiments where appropriate. stick everything together onto the card and add a sentiment to the front of your envelope. FINISHED!! It should only take you 2 hours to complete this. They make a great gift too!

.............................................................

Final word.... if you want to add that extra touch of christmas, glitter and bling is a must!! I've used several different glitters in my project. Some were ultra fine, others more chunky. I have an essential glue inkpad which allows me to stamp images with a glue instead of ink but you can easily dip your stamps into thinly spread out PVA glue and stamp them - just make sure you clean your stamp immediately when you are finished. simple swirls and circles or snowflakes will make the best on these cards. I've used them on the pattern paper....

Here are some closeups:

add chunky glitter - and don't forget those stickon gems!!

Using a clear or white glitter will give a more subtle look but add lots of sparkle

circles are always great for any project. the main thing is to add sparkle!