Hi Everyone! Thank you so much for stopping by the blog today. Sadly, I’m sharing a card I made for my good friend whose step-son passed away last week. It’s so difficult to create a sympathy card that truly shows how much you care for someone. Many times in making a card, I think about symbolism, but I don’t always share my artistic view or thought process. I want others to create their own views and opinions, but I thought I would share today.
I was drawn to this Altenew stamp set, Golden Feather, when I saw it, but had no clue how or when I might use it. When I received it, I knew it was the perfect set for this card. The feathers (in my mind) represent one feather from each of an Angel’s wings. The antique silver embossing on vellum turned out beautifully. Don’t you think?
Technique
I’m also submitting this card as homework for Altenew Academy class, Easy Ink Blending Techniques with Amy Lee. I blended three blue inks from the Glacier Caves set in an ombré effect on cold-pressed watercolor paper, and then misted with water to soften and blend the ink. Then I dribbled more water, let it sit for a few seconds, and dabbed it off with a paper towel. Finally, I splattered Sea Breeze and Dusk shimmer sprays over the panel.
Tips
I tried several different kinds of paper (Ranger watercolor, hot-pressed watercolor, and Neenah cardstock), but cold-pressed watercolor by far worked the best in creating this effect. Of course, this is what Amy initially suggested, but I had to experiment for myself ;)- She was right!
Misting with water softens the initial ink blending, and the water droplets helped to evoke a somber effect.
Splattering with the shimmer sprays adds an artistic effect.
Tricks
Embossing the feathers on vellum gives it a soft, angelic look.
Only use adhesive in the middle of the feathers. The edges will curl slightly and add dimension to the card.
Did you notice the edges of the card panels? This is a trick learned from Irresistible Inking Techniques class. I used silver pigment ink so that I could see exactly where I was inking along the edges (as opposed to using VersaMark) and then heat embossed with antique silver embossing powder. It adds interest to a basic cardstock panel; A finishing touch!
I hope you liked this card. It was a sad but special card for me. Love and hugs to everyone!
Erin
Everyday Expressions 
Hello Erin, I am sad about the occasion that you have to use this card…Your friend will be comforted by your thoughts. I really like your use of embossing and vellum. The feathers are light and airy…much like the angel’s wings indeed! Great job on combining this for the class. Sending warm hugs.
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Thank you, Virginia, for your kind words, and all of your support and encouragement throughout the classes! I’m having so much fun, learning tons, and so humbled to be in the program.
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Beautiful. I have also had to make a sympathy card this week and also find them hard to make although prefer to put my love into my art than to shy away from the challenge.
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Catherine, thank you so much for leaving me a thoughtful message. I am so sorry that you needed to make a sympathy card as well. I agree with you. Thanks so much for the encouragement.
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Beautiful card of softness and comfort for a sad occasion. Great job.
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Thank you! I do like the feathers.
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