Holiday Bells

Day 3's challenge at Bugaboo's 2nd Annual Holiday Chaos series is a color challenge. They provided a photo/color palette, to be used as the inspiration for a holiday card:

For my card design, I chose this sketch from Operation Write Home:

I actually experimented with different sketches using the focal image from Bugaboo Stamps that I'd chosen, and this one seemed to be the best to showcase it.

I printed my image onto a piece of 140 lb. watercolor paper, and colored it with Inktense pencils, using a paintbrush & water to blend the colors. I used the inspiration photo to guide most of my color choices.

Once I finished coloring, I let that piece dry. I cut 2 paper strips, using patterned papers from Iron Orchid Design's "Rejoice" 6x6" pad. I also cut a piece of cool grey Core'dinations cardstock to 4.25x5.5" (again following the color palette), and embossed it with a Darice "Argyle" folder. I lightly sanded the embossing with a sanding block. With this particular cardstock, since the core is a slightly lighter color than the surface, sanding can help give it a two-tone look.

To help define the patterned paper pieces, I inked around the edges with Walnut Stain Distress ink. I also inked the edges of the focal panel, just to keep things uniform. I glued the patterned paper strips to the background, and then glued the focal piece in place. Finally, I inked around the outer edges of the card front with Walnut Stain, stamped a sentiment on the inside of the card, and adhered the completed front to my A2-size card base.