Monday, March 12, 2012

Mad for Plaid

This week's Grungy Monday challenge is one of my favorite Tim Holtz techniques: alcohol ink plaid. I decided to use the opportunity to experiment a little with the new Specialty Stamping Paper from Ranger. Let me tell you...this stuff is amazing! I started by using my Sizzix Tag and Bookplates die to cut a tag from the new paper. I used Meadow, Aqua, and Butterscotch inks to create my plaid effect. (Here's a little tip - I used my TH design ruler as a guide for my stripes. I am just such a wobbler when I'm trying to make a straight line.) I love how it looks on the matte paper! To give the edges a little interest, I stamped the stitch border from the Spring Sprung stamp set on the edge with Snow Cap Dabber paint. The bottom is trimmed with the rosettes from Idea-ology's Lavish Trimmings and a piece of metal trim cut using the Sizzix Vintage Lace die.

I stamped the bunny from Spring Sprung on the new paper with Jet Black Archival ink. This is a second generation image (I stamped off to give it a softer look) and it looks a little mottled, but it is absolutely perfect in real life! I can't recommend this paper enough! I don't have my Distress markers yet (weep!), so I colored him the old fashioned way with Distress inks and a water pen. I added Sugar Sparkly Fluff which gives him a sweet, fluffy look. My bunny is adhered to a piece that was cut with the Sizzix Mini Baroque die then painted with a Snow Cap Dabber and stamped with Aqua Dabber using the background stamp from the Papillon stamp set.

All the supplies I used are listed below (get that paper, seriously!) and can be found at Inspiration Emporium via the links below. Don't forget to use my coupon code - stamptramp - to receive 10% off your order! Did you know that IE is one of the sponsors for Tim's Creative Chemistry 101 class? Are you signed up? I am and I absolutely cannot wait - I know it's going to be amazing!


This week's GM challenge is sponsored by Simon Says Stamp. Make sure you stop by the lovely Linda Ledbetter's blog and see all the fantastic submissions!

31 comments:

  1. Fabulous tag Shelly, love your plaid combined with the bunny and lovely trim too. I have enrolled for Tim's course too, yippeeee!! Tracy x

    ReplyDelete
  2. Terrific tag Shelly, loving that fab background and all those wonderful stamps. x

    ReplyDelete
  3. This is awesome! Love your tag!!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Love your tag, Shelly! Great job on the alcohol ink technique. It looks great. Your tag is so adorable with a bit of spring coming through.
    Kate

    ReplyDelete
  5. This is awesome, Shelly!! Love the mad hatter and your plaid! :)

    ReplyDelete
  6. Great and wonderful SPRING tag, Shelly.
    Looking at it makes me happy!

    ReplyDelete
  7. The plaid is perfect! The stamped stitching definately finishes the edges off. And the bunny is cute with his 'fluff' on!

    ReplyDelete
  8. The plaid looks real! You must have very steady hands, love your tag.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Beautiful plaid, love the subtle colours, it reminds me of a baby blanket...
    It's just a gorgeous tag.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Okay, alcohol ink plaid? Yet another Tim Technique I need to study! This is a beautiful tag and just fits my "ready for spring" mood today, with a beautiful sunny spring day here in Missouri!

    ReplyDelete
  11. Fab tag Shelly! Love the plaid tech, really makes an awesome background. The bunny is adorable!

    ReplyDelete
  12. I just love this!! That Bunny is too cute and your plaid is perfect!

    ReplyDelete
  13. Shelly, your bunny tag is just so cute! Love the plaid background and the mini baroque behind your little furry friend! Hugs, Candy

    ReplyDelete
  14. That tag is too cute, I thought that stitching was real,ok I NEED that stamp set. Like your colors too!

    ReplyDelete
  15. I am not quite sure how I cam to find your blog, but you are quite talented! I am enjoying your creations.

    Thanks,

    ReplyDelete
  16. What a sweet color combo! Love your plaid, Shelly.

    ReplyDelete
  17. Your Easter tag is very cute Shelly
    Love the colors.

    Greetings Janny

    ReplyDelete
  18. Love this pastel plaid ... perfect for Spring and Easter!

    ReplyDelete
  19. Fab on plaid! Could not help myself! Beautiful take on the challenge and I love the Spring effect of your plaid and the bunny is hopping cute! Yes, I am already signed up for Tim's class! WooHoo!

    ReplyDelete
  20. Lovely colors, Shelly! Hope you are thoroughly enjoying your birthday!

    ReplyDelete
  21. I love your tag! I want to try to make one just like it!
    HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  22. Love your pretty plaid and fluffy bunny!! It's beautiful!

    ReplyDelete
  23. This is gorgeous Shelley. Lovely spring colours you have used. Wouldn't it be great if we could make these tags into tartans?

    ReplyDelete

Thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts. I appreciate your comments so much!