Autumn Gatherings

 

Joan's Gardens is featuring "Autumn" products this week and I created a card using a couple of the Autumn dies.  To begin with I used the Sizzix "Branch Tree" embossing folder and sponged it with Distress Ink.  To create the sun I used a Spellbinders Circle die and sponged three different shades of yellow ink, inside the die, to create a Harvest Moon.  The pumpkins were die cut using the Sizzix "Mini Acorn & Pumpkin Set" die.  The branches and leaves below the pumpkins were cut using the Sizzix "Autumn Gatherings" die.  This die has different branches, acorns and many different leaves.  I love the size of these smaller leaves because you could create wreaths with them or even use the different leaves with floral arrangements you create for your cards.  I wanted to distress both the pumpkins and leaves to make them look more realistic.  Below is a picture to show you how I did this.

 This is a picture showing the Tim Holtz  texture stamp I used.  It is from the "Slight Alterations CMS 060" stamp set.  This stamp set has three different background stamps that I use a lot to add texture.   I inked the stamp up and laid the leaves over it.  Next a piece of computer paper was placed on top and I used a brayer to roll over the stamp to transfer the design to the leaves.  By placing a piece of paper on top, it kept the leaves in place while I brayered over the stamp. I die cut many different colors of leaves and used different colors of ink on the them.  My favorite color ended up being a dark brown ink because the texture did how up the best.  After they were stamp, I used different Distress Inks to sponge each one.  I didn't like flat leaves, so gently wadded them up and shaped them, to create a realistic look.  The pumpkins were also stamped with this texture stamp and were sponged.  The top of the pumpkin was cut out and a green stem, cut with the die, was glued behind the pumpkin.  A stylus was used to draw lines down the pumpkins to make them more realistic.  All the pieces were arranged along the bottom of the card.  The sentiment is from an old JustRite stamp "A Day in the Country".  A burgundy silk bow was added to complete the card.

Be sure to go over to Joan's Gardens to see all the Autumn products she is featuring to help you with your Autumn and Thanksgiving projects. 

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