Glittering Poinsettias - Joy Clair Designs

 I have been having fun with Joy Clair's Merriest Moments digital stamp release lately.  Today's card features two of the six images from the "This Christmas" digital stamp set.  Fellow DT members have used all of these images on the Joy Clair Designs website and blog, but it's the first time for me.

I love the wreath and the tree, but as I looked more carefully at the images, I thought the candle would challenge my coloring when it came to adding color, shading, and dimension to the candle.  Plus, I loved the look of the poinsettias - and knew right away I wanted to use the "out of the box" die cutting technique with it.  It's an oldie-but-goodie technique.  If you are unfamiliar with it, take a peek at this tutorial from 2013!!

I started with the die cut circle and then colored the image with my Copic markers.  I underpainted the green leaves with blue in the shaded areas, so when I decided to keep my poinsettias white, I used blue for their shading.

I knew I needed a colored backdrop to help the white poinsettias pop and instead of coloring with Copics, I used Distress Oxide inks.  I masked the candle/poinsettia and blended some Speckled Egg with Hickory Smoke distress oxides for most of the background.  I used Scattered Straw with Mustard Seed for the behind the candle's flame.  Next, while the image was masked, I splattered white and brown inks.  Finally, I painted the poinsettia's white leaves with craft glue and sprinkled Distress Clear Rock Candy Glitter over them to add some sparkle! 

With all of that done, it was time to finish the card.  As I went through my paper collection, I knew I wanted the image to be the focal point and loved how the green ties in with the ink blending and green leaves.  The black tied in with the poinsettia outlines!  I just found a scrap of gold foil and the card base was done!  I added the sentiment, a few clear gems, and popped the candle out on foam.  I love how this one turned out!

 As I was designing this card, I have a feeling Sketch #28 from the Build Your Stash Holiday Cardmakers came into play! I always love a good sketch!! Thanks for stopping by my blog.  In kindness, Cathy 

Challenges Entered:

The Flower Challenge #74 /Add Embellishments

Peace On Earth Christmas Challenge #27 / Anything Christmas

Little Red Wagon #679 / Winter

12 Months of Christmas #93/ AG

Merry Little Christmas Challenge Blog Nov. #47 /AG Christmas