Over the Moon with Ombre

Card Making Ideas by Becca Feeken using Quietfire A Family is a Circle of Strength and Spellbinders French Harmony
Anyone who doesn’t know that dabbling in paints and coaxing color all over paper isn’t pure, unadulterated therapy . . .  well, that person is missing out.  It has been so busy in my life lately that standing at the craft counter and slathering paint and ink – what can I say – pure.joy.   I’m so taken with the look of ombres. It doesn’t look like I got too inky but the serene wash of color and the understated look was just what I hoped for.  I taped my watercolor paper down to the counter and wet it down, then added the gradual shades of blue.  Then the same thing on another sheet making gradual shades of green.  When I assembled the card I started the heavy part of the background ombre at the top and reversed it with the next die cut layer.  While I was doing the green, I dyed up some white silk ribbon into a green ombre – so dreamy.

Card Making Ideas by Becca Feeken using Quietfire A Family is a Circle of Strength and Spellbinders French Harmony
This is the first time I’ve used Spellbinders French Harmony – oh my, what a lovely background and it cut like butter.  I also used Spellbinders Standard Circles Small and Spellbinders Stately Circles.

Here’s how I made it – step by step:

  1. Start out with a card base that measures 5-3/4″wide – 7-1/2″ tall.  
  2. From watercolor paper that has been painted with a wash of reinker, cut a panel 5-1/4″ x 7″, then attach to base with double foam tape, leaving  foam at bottom of panel unadhered.
  3. From watercolor paper that has been painted green with a wash of reinker, cut/emboss French Harmony, then attach to base with double foam tape.
  4. Take an 8″ length of ribbon to span across card, lift up bottom layer of card and anchor to back side of bottom panel, secure bottom layer.
  5. Cut/Emboss Stately Circles #3, attach to base using double foam.
  6. Stamp Quietfire “A Family is a Circle of Strength” using Versafine Onyx Black and heat emboss using clear embossing panel then cut/emboss sentiment with Standard Circles SM #5 then attach to base using double foam.
  7. Add double bow, pearls, filigree and button. 

Tip:  There are many ways to make a double bow, the easiest way is to stack two  graduated size bows on top of each other.

CRAFT SUPPLIES I USED 
Rubber Stamps:  Quietfire Design – A Family Is A Cirle of Strength
Craft Paper: Strathmore 140lb Watercolor Paper
Ink:  Versafine Black Onyx and Clear Embossing Powder, Edited-to-Add: Ranger Distress Ink – Stormy Sky, Ranger Antiquities – Topiary
Accessories:  Spellbinders French HarmonySpellbinders Standard Circles SmallSpellbinders Stately CirclesMay Arts Silk Ribbon, Button, Filigree Flower

Thanks so much for stopping by.  Oh, and happy Friday  :-)

On a more somber note, condolences to our Dutch friends and the many countries who lost citizens on the plane crash yesterday.  It was a horrible event and the loss of so many innocent lives, absolutely tragic.

Question Parking Lot:

Maureen Killen, comment #1 mused that I must get sick of reading the same comments each day.  My answer to that is Never!!  As a matter of fact, I look forward to interacting with this community every day.  I know many of you by the fact that you come every single day.  You can’t know how very grateful I am.  Just knowing you are here is enough!  You all are the real people I design for!!  After 6 years and almost 1600 posts sometimes the inspiration well goes dry and I’ve found the people who come here fill my sails with inspiration.  It’s never a requirement to leave a comment, I’m so grateful you stop by.  Lol, when both of those cease, I think that’ll be my hint to move on :-)

Carol B, comment #02 asked if I taped down the ribbon to dye it.  I hadn’t thought about that – might be work a try!  But no, what I did was set it in water.  I hope to have a video soon on the ways I dye ribbon because I take the easy way out :-)  Stay tuned.

Charlotte, comment #03 asked where the Question Parking Lot is.  Hi Charlotte, the Question Parking Lot is right here :-)  It doesn’t appear until someone asks a question about the card displayed.  Then by magic of blogs, the question is answered and the answer appear here.  People typically check back to see if the answer to their question has appeared in the parking lot.   Thanks for asking that question Charlotte, it has come up several times for people new to my site.

Marly T, comment #05 asked what colors I used for the ombres.  For the blue I used Ranger Distress Ink – Stormy Sky.  For the minty green I used Ranger Antiquities – Topiary.  On looking out and about, I can’t seem to find the latter online so I assume it is retired.  I hate that because I went through every green reinker I had to come up with the right color.  (This clearly demonstrates that I never throw anything out….)

Ronny, comment #38 asked what size ribbon I use.  I use a couple of different sizes but my favorite fabrics are silk and rayon due to their lovely drape.  On my card today I’ve used 1.25″  white silk ribbon.  I also use 1/4″ and 1/8″ for multiloop bows.  My other go ribbon is the Hug Snug Seam Binding, which is a rayon.  The size of that ribbon is 5/8″.  You’ll see my older cards have really wide ribbon and my taste has definitely changed over time to smaller width ribbon.

Rose Newlun, comment #39 asked how to stack layers and how long it takes me to make a card.  I usually set up my layers to be graduated so that the layer behind is always at least a little bit revealed.  My advise is to look at what other folks have done and after you’ve done that for a while it will become easier to improvise your own.  Get a couple of layer sets you really love then change out one die – that’s another way.  Don’t get discouraged, there is no right or wrong.  Whatever you decide to put on your card, it’s from your heart and it’s the right thing.  The card above took a couple of hours, not long at all.

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  • Maureen KillenJuly 18, 2014 - 12:20 pm

    Becca, this is a happy Friday and your card is absolutely gorgeous. You must get sick of reading the same comments, but it’s true – absolutely beautiful.
    By the way I have mastered the safety pin routine, it’s fab. I’m not the only one here in the U.K. but I’ll let her tell you herself.
    Love xx
    P>S> Can’t believe I’m first to blog xxReplyCancel

  • Carol bJuly 18, 2014 - 12:20 pm

    Becca, I love the look of ombré too and of course it’s all the rage. Nice job! Did you tape down and paint he ribbon too?
    Carol bReplyCancel

  • CharlotteJuly 18, 2014 - 12:27 pm

    Becca,

    This is a lovely card. I don’t know how to get to the “Question Parking Lot.” Where is it? I can’t click on it? I was wondering if you ever did a video on how to make this beautiful bow. If so, could you direct me to it.
    Thanks so much. You never cease to amaze me with your creations.
    CharlotteReplyCancel

  • Lisa GregoryJuly 18, 2014 - 12:36 pm

    So beautiful!!. There is no such thing as to inky!!! You color your world beautifully and it shows!! I love it!!ReplyCancel

  • Marly TJuly 18, 2014 - 12:41 pm

    Becca, stunning card as ever. I always look forward to seeing your posts come through to see what exciting projects you’ve been working on. Please could you tell me what product you used for the graduated minty green layer. I’m totally IN LOVE with this colour, so would like to lay my hands on the product you used to achieve this effect. Many thanks, MarlyReplyCancel

  • MaryannJuly 18, 2014 - 12:49 pm

    An absolut outstanding piece of art here again Becca. I really feel a bit like Maureen, that I just keeps repeating myself over and over again, but your work really is sooo amazing and beautiful, that it´s ahrd to keep comming up with more things to praise it LOL.
    Have a wonderful week-end ahead now and lots of fun and joy, and take good care.ReplyCancel

  • margaret driscoll UKJuly 18, 2014 - 12:51 pm

    Hello Becca
    Love it absolutely beautiful as always!
    Lovely sentiment too!
    Take care
    Love MargReplyCancel

  • Anne (UK)July 18, 2014 - 1:01 pm

    Oh my! Loving the colour mix and shading. Gorgeous!
    Hugs
    Anne (UK) xReplyCancel

  • Marilyn in E-TownJuly 18, 2014 - 1:07 pm

    Gorgeous!ReplyCancel

  • ElaineJuly 18, 2014 - 1:15 pm

    Just Gorgeous Becca ,
    God Bless
    Elaine H XReplyCancel

  • Joni StonekingJuly 18, 2014 - 1:22 pm

    Love the look of this – thanks! happy inky fingers!ReplyCancel

  • Diane CokJuly 18, 2014 - 1:26 pm

    All I can say is – just beautiful! And Happy Friday to you!ReplyCancel

  • Pat harveyJuly 18, 2014 - 1:36 pm

    We need a video on this beautiful cardReplyCancel

  • ANN ROBBINSJuly 18, 2014 - 1:41 pm

    Hi Becca
    I remember when I saw the die you used today and thought — how goofy it looked. Well, not no more. It is awesome! with just the Becca touch. I love ombre and found a lot of different colors in my stash as I was assembling my new craft room and I made all of it into bows with my BECCA BOWMAKER!!!!!!!!!
    Have a wonderful weekend!
    Hugs
    Mstgane
    AnnReplyCancel

  • BeckyJuly 18, 2014 - 2:12 pm

    Hello Becca,
    As usual you made another gorgeous card! I can’t wait to see them when I get your email!! I have a question as I am pretty new to your site: how do you make the bows? I looked for a tutorial but couldn’t find one. Also, where do I buy the May ribbon? Is there a website to buy it from as no stores here in Charlotte carry it?
    Thanks Becca!! :)
    BeckyReplyCancel

  • Becky GreenJuly 18, 2014 - 2:27 pm

    How absolutely wonderful!!! I love ombre Becca & you have executed this beautifully!!!!!!!:) EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!:DReplyCancel

  • pat harveyJuly 18, 2014 - 3:15 pm

    Being a visual learner, I miss seeing your video’s and this would be a great one to add to your collection.ReplyCancel

  • Jeanette (New Zealand)July 18, 2014 - 3:27 pm

    What a beautiful card Becca. I love these colours and the saying on the stamp is absolutely awesome. I will have to try and find it. Take care.ReplyCancel

  • Sandy HoyJuly 18, 2014 - 4:12 pm

    This is so beautiful! I have not tried to do an ombre yet with any of my cards. However, I believe that this technique will be tried on my next project! Thank you for sharing such a lovely card.ReplyCancel

  • ConnieJuly 18, 2014 - 5:04 pm

    Such great and inspiring talent you have. What a great gift.ReplyCancel

  • Vicky SchmidtJuly 18, 2014 - 5:08 pm

    What a beautiful card. I was glad to hear about putting 2 bows together.
    I will need to try that.
    Thanks BeccaReplyCancel

  • ChelseaJuly 18, 2014 - 7:32 pm

    So lovely and refreshing! The color is marvelous. Thanks, Becca. Your cards are such a treat to the eyes!ReplyCancel

  • Gretchen WilsonJuly 18, 2014 - 7:39 pm

    Stunning, I said on face book that it was beautiful, but when you see it on the screen and not the IPhone, it make a BIG difference, I have always loved ombre and you have done this card justice. It gorgeous and one of my favorite colors. I want to sit down right now and try, but my kiddo is coming for a short visit this week end, he 20th class reunion. Where does time go, I had my 50th last year and I still act like I’m 30. Oh well I may not really look it, but I can have fun. Gorgeous again my friend.ReplyCancel

  • Carol HJuly 18, 2014 - 8:17 pm

    Beautiful! Love those shades of blue/gray! Thank you for sharing! :)ReplyCancel

  • RebekkaJuly 18, 2014 - 11:25 pm

    Gorgeous! I just love the colors.ReplyCancel

  • Clare WJuly 19, 2014 - 1:18 am

    A really dreamy. moody card with that colour – love it – love that bow – divine! Yes done a beaded safety pin now thanks to your advice given – thank you! Having a heat wave here (UK) at the mo – 30C+ – lots of thunder storms -perfect crafty weather!ReplyCancel

  • Norah McPheeJuly 19, 2014 - 4:47 am

    Good morning Becca,
    i like what you have done with your card today as it looks so lovely with the ombre look. The bows are so pretty done in the graduated colour as well and i don’t go for green all that much but this is a lovely card. Changing the bow for a small topper or embellishment could make it a lovely card for a man because they are always difficult to get right somehow. Thank you Becca,
    Love and crafty hugs
    Norah (Glenochil, Scotland)ReplyCancel

  • Mrs BJuly 19, 2014 - 5:03 am

    Hi Becca. Gorgeous card, I love the ombre look. I’m not a big green fan but this shade is beautiful. Thanks for the tip about the double bow : ) Take care.ReplyCancel

  • Colleen HowellJuly 19, 2014 - 5:06 am

    Love the card, and the colors are awesome, love the way the bow turned out on inking as well. Yet another beauty from you, thanksReplyCancel

  • Sonia ReyesJuly 19, 2014 - 7:00 am

    Gorgeous!ReplyCancel

  • JenniferJuly 19, 2014 - 7:33 am

    I love the colourway of this card Becca, beautiful design, thank you for sharing x x xReplyCancel

  • Marilyn ClarkJuly 19, 2014 - 8:08 am
  • vicki dutcherJuly 19, 2014 - 8:12 am

    My favorite color! Your bow is over the top beautiful~ReplyCancel

  • Katy LeslieJuly 19, 2014 - 8:30 am

    Becca
    What a fabulously tasty card. Tasty?? Oh yes, blues and greens are my favourite colours and you have combined them on one card.
    Such a talent. Such a lovely generous lady for sharing your ideas too. xxxxReplyCancel

  • ConniecrafterJuly 19, 2014 - 9:03 am

    Gorgeous, love the ombre effect!ReplyCancel

  • barb macaskillJuly 19, 2014 - 9:15 am

    What a wonderful card!! I love ombre but have never tried it myself. I will be trying it now that you have shown me an easy way to do it!
    So kind of you to mention the tragedy that occurred in the Ukraine! My heart goes out to all the families!
    Have a great weekend!!ReplyCancel

  • Jacquie JacobsJuly 19, 2014 - 10:17 am

    Stunning Becca, so love the colours you have used especially the Green.

    Love & Hugs

    Jacquie J xxx
    ReplyCancel

  • RonnyJuly 19, 2014 - 5:10 pm

    Maybe you have answered this before and I have missed it but I was wondering what size of ribbon do you usually use on your cards. It is hard
    to tell as the picture is blown up to show the card.ReplyCancel

  • Rosy NewlunJuly 19, 2014 - 7:43 pm

    Dear Becca, I always love your cards. No matter how hard I try, I just don’t know how to choose die cut layers to combine. It makes me very discouraged. Is there a trick, and honestly, how long does it take you to create a card like this? It would truly take me at least a week to make something like this. Thanks for always inspiring us! ?ReplyCancel

  • Robyn JosephsJuly 19, 2014 - 8:12 pm

    Lovely setting for the Quietfire quote. Thanks so much for inspiringing us all to get out and paint!!!ReplyCancel

  • Marilyn in E-TownJuly 19, 2014 - 10:08 pm

    Beautiful card!ReplyCancel

  • Sandra SmithJuly 19, 2014 - 10:31 pm

    I love the elegant simplicity of this fabulous card. I think it’s the ombre effect that gives both the elegance and simplicity. Just lovely.ReplyCancel

  • Patricia HowarthJuly 20, 2014 - 10:46 am

    Hi Becca, I adore your card, and the colours are stunning, it is so elegant and beautiful.
    Lots of love from Patricia xxReplyCancel

  • JaniceJuly 21, 2014 - 10:32 am

    Oh my goodness, another stunning card. Love the idea of the two colours, placed in opposite grades. You do some great stuff. I look forward to your video on dying ribbon. The first time I tried to do that, the ink kept coming off on my hands, and everywhere, even though I thought I had dried it well with my heat gun.ReplyCancel

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