Jan 18th Mystery Swap

There is a group of swappers on Split Coast Stampers who participate in a Mystery Swap.  Every other month, one member (the host for the round) selects an image for us to use, maybe also some DP or a sentiment to go with it, and sends the Mystery kits to the current month's host.  That host includes the kit with the swap returns and we begin the process all over again.

Ok, have I confused you yet??  It's easier than how it sounds with my convoluted explanation.  Anyway, this round is my turn to be the host. So, last November, when our last Mystery Swap was due, I sent the hostess my Mystery kits and the gang has had December and part of January to create their cards.  The cards are due to me on Jan. 18th, which is also the date that we can reveal on our blogs or in our gallery our creations with the kit.

D. Morgan's illustration of the stamp image
 on the wood block

I chose to use a D. Morgan stamp (yes, I'm a big fan and have lots of her stamps) entitled "A Better Friend" marketed by Stamps Happen, Inc.  Here's a picture of her artwork (see left).

I am really excited to see what everyone comes up with using this image.  I'm sure to learn a lot from these talented women.

Here is what I made this round.  It's a 6x6 inch square card, colored with Prismacolor pencils and using Gamsol to blend.

At first I thought of making a winter scene, but, hey - it's January and I needed to think "Spring" .  So I tried to put the trees in bloom and dropping some of the flower petals on the ground.

The cats always gave me a hard time, but this time maybe I have had enough practice with shading to achieve a better look.  I haven't tried this stamp in almost a year, so maybe I'm progressing in my coloring technique.

Front close-up

Here is a closer view, showing the shiny dotted background paper.  It's from DCWV in their "Linen Closet" pack.  It's a great pack if you haven't seen it, check it out.  It's pretty versatile.

Inside panel

I also decided to add a corner punched piece of coordinating solid color stock on the inside for an extra touch.

I will post the returns from my Mysterious Swapping Friends as soon as they all come in. That way you can drool over everyone's creations.

Thanks for stopping by and wishing you all a week blessed with health and happiness!