In the knick of time!

Whenever I get stumped about stamping and can't think of anything cute to do, I usually search for cards online to CASE (I already told you about that....) or I search for sketch challenges to follow. The challenges are great because you get to bring your own take on a sketch and use whatever stamps, materials, colors, accessories, etc... that you have on hand. And usually, the sketches are way more interesting than any card I'd have thought up!

Earlier this week I found the Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge #59 rather interesting. Of course, I am no plan-ahead-er, so I am just finishing the card now and posting it after the submissions to showcase it on that blog have closed. Oh well. At least the card turned out really cute (IMO) and used some new goodies I hadn't dug into yet. :)

SSSC59 Bird Thanks
Stamp Sets: Thank You Kindly
Cardstock: Pretty in Pink, So Saffron, Rose Red
Designer Series Paper: Sweet Pea
Stampin' Pads (Classic): Rose Red
Accessories/Tools: Scallop Trim Border Punch, XL Two-Step Bird Punch

I love that the main focus of this card is the punches. Of course, the Scallop Trim Border Punch is quickly becoming a favorite - and so awesome that you can get it for FREE with an order of $50 or more! But that bird punch.... at first glance in the catalog I thought "NO WAY. Who needs that?" Then I saw samples and got my own. I love it! Mixing and matching the bird and the wing was so much fun! I have probably 6 more birds punched out waiting for me on my stamping table. :) It may become my "go to" for springtime cards. :)