Positivity...

I can't believe it's nearly a month since I posted!

Still suffering with my back but this week I did manage to make a start on a markers class with Kit and Clowder.

Unfortunately I wasn't happy with the results and here is why!

I had opted to use some 'cheaper' card stock that someone suggested might be suitable for markers, but unfortunately, this months' class was quite detailed and I noticed the markers were bleeding. You can see here, where these were supposed to be fine lines... easily achievable with Copics with practice.

You can see the 'spread' of the ink.

There are a number of things to take from this...

• It is important to always buy the 'tools' most suited to the job in hand
• Cutting corners to save money isn't always cost effective
• Be patient, improvement comes with practice and that includes making mistakes
• Trust in the advice of the experts - that's why they're experts.

It is important too to look at the positives! 

• I have learnt an important lesson
• I will have the opportunity to improve my colouring even further with the extra practice
• No practice is ever wasted
• I have been able to 'recycle' my penguins and made 3 awesome cards!

I'm entering these in the Whimsy challenge! https://whimsyinspires.blogspot.co.uk/

That's me for today! Happy crafting! xxx

Birthday Blooms - Stampin' Up! - Kit and Clowder Colouring Classes

Good afternoon! Today I'm sharing a few cards made with just one set - Birthday Blooms.

I was really disappointed when Stampin' Up! withdrew their Blendable markers. So the first few images show you really don't need alcohol markers to colour beautiful images... the last is a little self indulgent as I did buy a set of Spectrum Noir markers... I'm still learning but am going to be doing a set of amazing classes from Kit and Clowder. (Link at the end!)

These first two are made by embossing the Vellum then colouring with my Blender Pens

I also used Blender Pens here - not perfect but It's the colour combo here that I love! Oh - and the fabulous Lace Trim and Duet Banner punch.

This was coloured with Aqua Painters after first stamping the image with Versamark and using Clear Embossing Powder.

This was another one with the Aqua Painters, but I used Archival Ink so it wouldn't run when I added the water.

This last image was coloured with my Spectrum Noir markers - I may have opted for a different manufacturer if I had realised the limitations of these pens... But they're probably perfect for me to get started with!

If you would like to start colouring you won't go wrong at all joining one of Alyce's classes at Kit and Clowder - she is AMAZING!

http://www.kitandclowder.com/

Check out her group on Facebook too - but only nice people are allowed to join - I couldn't believe what a lovely, encouraging and generous group they are!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/kitandclowder/

Take care all!