Showing Kindness and Compassion

After the events of the weekend I have been touched by the kindness and compassion shown by complete strangers. This is what makes us human. It was inevitable I suppose that I’d want to make condolences cards. This is the first, using the aptly named Kindness & Compassion Stamp Set.

"Our sincere condolences" card created using the Kindness & Compassion Stamp Set from Stampin' Up! #papercraftwithme

SOFT BACKGROUND

I began my project by choosing the background design. This is a piece from the Perennial Essence 12″ x 12″ Designer Series Paper (DSP) pack.

Using my Paper Trimmer I cut four pieces. The first was 3-3/4″ x 5″ for the front of the card. Then two pieces each 1/2″ x 4″ for the inside of the card. Then the final piece 2-1/4″ x 6″ to cover the envelope flap.

Before going any further I placed each of the pieces inside the Subtle 3D Embossing Folder and ran them through my embossing machine. The embossing gave the beautiful paper a faux ‘canvas’ look that I love. With that done I could turn to the sentiments.

KINDNESS AND COMPASSION

I chose two sentiments from the Kindness & Compassion Stamp Set. On a 1″ x 3-3/4″ strip I stamped “Our sincere condolences” in Seaside Spray ink.

Then on a 4″ x 5-1/4″ Very Vanilla layer I stamped “Sending comforting hugs and healing prayers. So sorry for your loss”.

Now I was ready to start putting the card together.

Going back to my Paper Trimmer I cut and scored some Seaside Spray Card. Then I folded it along the scored line and sharpened the crease with a Bone Folder to create a card base.

Inside of condolences card with "Sending comforting hugs and healing prayers" sentiment created using the Kindness & Compassion Stamp Set from Stampin' Up! #papercraftwithme

Next, using Multipurpose Liquid Glue (Tombow), I attached the 1/2″ strips of DSP to the top and bottom edges of the Very Vanilla layer. With that done I fixed the layer inside the card base.

FINISHING TOUCHES

Turning to the front of the card I fixed the large piece of DSP to a layer of Very Vanilla Card with liquid glue. Then I added that to the front of the card base.

My main sentiment was fixed to a 1-4″ x 3/4″ strip of Seaside Spray Card. However before attaching it to the card front I decided to add some 3/8″ Very Vanilla Scalloped Lace Trim along the top and bottom edges. To so this I flipped the layered sentiment over and fixed Tear & Tape Adhesive along the edges. Then I removed the backing paper and attached the edge of the lace to the adhesive. After pressing firmly I flipped the sentiment back over and fixed it to the card front with liquid glue.

All that was left to decorate was the Very Vanilla Medium Envelope. For this I simply used liquid glue to attach the final piece of DSP to the flap. Then using Paper Snips I cut the DSP to shape using the edge of the flap as a guide.

I’m really happy with how this project turned out. It has just the right balance of calm and compassion. What do you think?

RETIRING LIST

At 4pm AT today Stampin’ Up! will reveal the Retiring List. At that point everything on the list will most likely be only available “while stocks last”. Certain things like the 2018-2020 InColors may sell out quickly, along with popular packs of Designer Series Paper. Other items may last a while longer.

So set your alarm and remember to check the Retiring / Last Chance section in my online store at 4pm. If there is anything you want please order it straight away directly via my store. From past experience if you delay, or contact me to place the order for you, it may well sell out.