It's time for another great sketch challenge this week at Global Design Project.
Here is my take on the sketch. I really struggled with this one for some reason. I think it was because I was hung up on a using a big piece of dsp below the image. It wasn't until I substituted the background stamp from the Hello Color stamp set that I started to feel like I was having some success.
But even then, one measly little piece of DSP didn't do the trick. It wasn't until I added a second strip of Lemon Lime designer series paper and some flowers to the sentiment did I feel like I had finally created a share-worthy card. I am telling you this because I want you to know that everyone struggles with their designs from time-to-time.
Things may look perfect on my blog, but what you don't see is how many times things end up half-finished on my desk, or worse yet, they end up in the trash. The one thing I try NOT to do is give up! When you are on a design team, it really isn't an option. If something doesn't work one way, try something else. I can't tell you how many times I just sit and stare at a card in progress. My husband likes to ask, "If you stare at it long enough will it talk to you?" "Why yes, sometimes it will!", I proclaim. But sometimes I have to walk away for a few hours, or maybe even sleep on it before I figure out what needs to be done. Sometimes, I just have to start over and go a totally different direction. In most cases, it is only paper and ink. There is no shame in trying something, finding out it doesn't turn out in real life like you imagined in your head, and then abandoning the idea. It may be something you can try again later using a different approach.
Another thing I do when I can't seem to figure out what is wrong with a card is take a picture of it with my smart phone. You would be amazed at how much clarity you get with this method. Often times it is a matter of balance. Taking a photo allows you to look at things from a different perspective. If that doesn't work, I send the picture to a friend and ask her advice. Of course, it helps if that friend is also a talented card maker who will be totally honest with you. I am blessed to have several friends whom I trust to offer helpful advice.
The most important thing is to stop trying to please everyone else! I can't stress this enough. If you like what you create and it makes you happy, then that is all that matters. Remember, not everything you design is going to appeal to everyone. People have different styles and tastes. For every person who likes your card there will be someone out there who doesn't. Since I am a bit of a perfectionist, this is something I have to remind myself of often. As long as your card follows good design principles and is well made (ie. clean cuts, neat stamping, good workmanship) don't worry about what others may think.
Now back to my card for this week's challenge. Besides the background stamp, it uses the Colorful Seasons stamp set along with the Seasonal Layers and Stitched Layers die set. The papers used are from the Birthday Memories and Fresh Florals designer series paper stacks. I love how the bright colors pop off of the neutral Crumb Cake card base. Isn't this a great color combo as well!
I hope I have given you some tips you can use. We would love to have you play along with us this week. Be sure to check out what the other talented designers/players have created for this fun challenge at the Global Design Project Challenge Blog.
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