I’m so happy to be taking part today in the Hero Arts 2018 Catalog Blog Hop today! If you are arriving here from Yana Smakula’s website (and yes, she is an AMAZING act to follow!), I welcome you warmly to my little corner of the internet and will share my simple card with you!
My card for today features the brand new Layered Topiary stamps and dies! This is a really charming set with three different sizes of foliage that you layer together using different ink colors to create gorgeous little topiaries. Plus, it includes sweet sentiments and a charming bird, pot and stems.
True story: I was working with the stamps (and yes, you can see that my set is already well-loved!) and couldn’t figure out how to layer them. So much so, that I had to contact my friend Jana over at Hero Arts to ask for tips. She said, “I’ll get back to you!” I think she was just giving me a few minutes before she said, “Cathy, the layering order is on the back of the package.” #newbiecardmakerproblems Right? How convenient!
And yes, if I could insert a laughing / crying emoji here, I would.
It still took me a while to get them lined up. I’m pretty new to layering stamps but I just think this set is adorable. Plus, I used one of my brand new jumbo sponge daubers to create the pink blended are behind the plant using the same Hero Arts Cotton Candy ink. Here’s a tip for you: if you’re not very good at ink blending (and yes, I am speaking of myself here), just use ONE color. Problem solved. Plus, those jumbo sponge daubers make it easier!
I used the coordinating Layered Topiary Frame Cuts dies to cut out all of my stamped images using my shiny new Spellbinders Platinum 6 die cutting machine, which I’ve had for a few weeks now and have to say I love it. I especially love that it all folds up and is easy to store. And it’s white and looks pretty on my paper cabinet.
I stamped my greeting using Versafine Black Onyx then dusted it with Hero Arts Clear Embossing Powder to create a slightly raised, shiny finish. (I learned that fancy trick from Jennifer McGuire!) That ink stays sticky for a bit so it’ll grab that powder for embossing. I also used my Embossing Magic bag to swipe over the area to remove static first. In that way, the powder only sticks to the ink and not any other area on the cardstock. That is another embossing tip I learned in 2017 that made all the years of “WHY DOES THE POWDER STICK TO EVERYTHING?” suddenly make sense.
I fear embossing no more.
It’s the little things, people.
THE GIVEAWAY: Hero Arts will be giving away three $50 shopping sprees, drawn from comments left across all blogs in the hop! Please leave your comments by Thursday, February 22 at 11:59 p.m. PST. Hero Arts will announce the winners the following week! Just for fun, when you leave me a comment today, tell me if you are a newbie card maker, a seasoned pro, or somewhere in between, or not presently but are thinking about it.
I had no idea I would fall in love with card making, people. Truly. It has been a creative boost like no other.
Again, I’m really honored to be included among such amazing card artists today. Thank you to Hero Arts for including me in this crazy, creative mix! Here is the complete hop list:
Jennifer McGuire
Kristina Werner
Jessica Frost-Ballas
Yana Smakula
Cathy Zielske—You are here!
May Sukyong Park
Nichol Spohr
Michelle Short
Wanda Guess
Amy Tsuruta
Lydia Fiedler
Heather Ruwe
Laurie Willison
Clare Prezzia
Iliana Myska
Emily Midgett
Janette Kausen
Jenn Shurkus
Sean Fetterman
Simon Hurley
Joan Bardee
Megan Hoeppner
Lisa Stein
Ilina Crouse
Amy Kolling
Rubeena Ianigro
Kelly Latevola
Libby Hickson
Lucy Abrams
SUPPLIES:
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amy says
Your card is just wonderful…the colors are perfect!
Rubeena Ianigro says
Such a pretty card! Haha, you’re cute. I have a hard time layering things, too! Don’t worry it turned out great!!
Karthikha Uday says
Fantastic card!! Simple, super beautiful and soft!
Paula Desmarais says
Such a beautiful card! Thank you so much for sharing 🙂
Cara P says
I love the colors you chose, so valentine-y! I’ve been making cards for years, but I feel like I’m starting new every time I see a new technique. I love that! It keeps it exciting and motivating. Keep up your great work, I live watching people go in the same journey of discovery that I love to travel as well!
Angela R says
This is so soft and beautiful. I love the use of the pinks for the topiary!
Jan Elmore says
Not sure if it’s the colors or the simple design elements, but this card is amazing!
Sarah Armstrong says
Love your card and love HERO stamps!
Elizabeth Burke says
This is one of my favorite sets in this release. I love your card and I just LOVE your videos…. you give an honest….. oops, I messed this up approach that all crafters can identify with LOL
Thanks for the great videos and the laughs too
Tara Prince says
Gorgeous card!!
Sherry B says
Simply elegant!
Jennifer A says
Your card is so lovely! Thanks for a chance!
Natalie Winterstein says
Lovely card! The topiary is so beautiful!
Linda Spryshak says
Beautiful card! The layering and colors are wonderful!
Tracey Magner says
HI, Your card came out AWESOME, Your layering is AMAZING, you look like a PRO!! and I love the colors you used. I love your blog, you have a unique style that a think is so cool.
Natalie Dominguez says
I love the blended background! My narrow mind doesn’t know how to think outside of the lines (box).
Kim W says
I love the clean, simple look of your card…just my style! I’m a seasoned card maker and just love getting inspiration from other card makers 🙂
Sharon O says
Love your card and the blog entry; you are SO honest and encouraging!
Dionne says
Love your card. I am not a card maker but would love to try it.
Lisa Wright says
I rediscovered the stamping/card making about 8 months before you got hooked. I feel the same joy and excitement that you have. I love my scrapbooking, but card making really makes me happy and brings smiles to the people I send cards to. Its a win win!!
Glenda says
I have been making my own cards for many years and I have to say that you are inspiring me with the new techniques I am learning from your blog.
Sherri says
Love the pink topiary!
Suz Gray says
Such a pretty card. I love the pop of color with lots of white. I’m a newer stamper even though I’ve been a scrapper for 30+ years. I always made a mess with not full images, dropping the rubber block stamps, or smudging ink so I had love hate relationship. The Misti is the key to the love
Debbie Rumpza says
I love the layering topiary stamps set but I, too, have a hard time lining up layering stamps! I need to practice more. I even have a HA on my desk right now! (the goldfish). Love your card… the cloud of pink behind softens it all and makes it so pretty!
Joyce Gary says
Glad you are making cards because you are good. Thanks.
Vikki H says
I love your CAS style of one focal point, the cheery pink blended and stamped plus your word play! Bravo on finding the back of the pkg directions.
Kathleen D says
Love it! I’ve made cards over the years but I still feel like a newbie card maker so I enjoy hearing your newbie tips.
Teresa Doyle says
A great job on your card Cathy.
I started stamping in 1999 and I have learned a lot in that time so I am definitely not a newbie at it. Seasoned, maybe but I wouldn’t call myself a pro either, LOL. There is ALWAYS more to learn!
Amber says
Adorbs❣️ Inspires me to take another stab at laying stamps.
Kathy Meredith says
Beautiful card! Simple, elegant and you could make it perfect for anything in spring!
jackie d says
I have been scrapbooking for 19 years, and card making off and on the whole time. Just got back into card making last year and have dived in deep! love the watercoloring, the stamping, the dies….Oh too much fun to be had in card making!
Diane Koele says
I love this new layering stamp set and can see tons of uses for it. Thanks for sharing!
Chris C says
Love the simplicity of this card! Great job! I am a seasoned card maker.
Steph Brubaker says
Seriously LOVE the topiary! Nice work:)
Betty C says
So glad you’ve found your love of card making. I find they’re mini works of art that I can sit and do without being overwhelmed by a big project. Hero Arts is a perfect companion product especially for those of us that enjoy simplicity and clean lines when we craft. Thanks for another great demo Cathy!
Christina Dauven says
I love the simplicity of this card and of course the pink. I think you follow on the hop just fine pink tree yep it’s like the cherry on the sundae. I will be adding pink tree to my hero shopping list.
Andrea Mariño says
Great ideas! thanks for sharing 😉
Viveca V. says
I love my time creating with paper. For me card making is a creative outlet and an opportunity to let someone know that he or she is in my thoughts.
You created such a pretty card with the topiary stamp set. Sweet colors and a nice touch to add a matching envelope!
Patti Harris says
love this card… it’s simple but so pretty. Sometimes it’s nice to make a pretty card without having to spend a ton of time on it.
Toni Gillette says
Cathy your card is exactly YOU. CAS and unique and beautiful! I was/am a scrapbooker for many many years even took a few classes with you at CKCs. So miss you and the mags by the way ?. I have been making my own Christmas cards for ever but totally got addicted to this craft over 3 yrs ago and I love learning new things constantly. Glad you’re involved. And can’t wait to get some of your stamp sets they rock like you! ?
Luci Manos says
What a beautiful clean and simple card! Thanks for the inspiration.
Kathy Brewer says
Can’t wait to get my hands on some of these! Thanks for the ideas!
Teri S. says
Soft & pretty CAS card. Just lovely.
Tonia Sims says
Elegant and eye-catching card! Lovely. I’m a newbie card maker and appreciate the inspiration.
Linda S. says
Such a very pretty card, I love the soft pink color on your card. I think I’m a seasoned pro. I’ve been making cards for more then 10 years. Last year I handmade all the invitations and thank you cards for my youngest son’s wedding. Early this year I realized that I’d made over 400 cards in 2017.
Judy Bowlby says
Your card is lovely Cathy. I too have a hard time blending ink colors so I’m glad to know that even the pros have trouble sometimes. lol I haven’t tried any layering stamps yet but they do look fairly easy. Thanks for sharing with us.
Kendra says
I am loving the topiaries. I like layering stamps but am still learning them, too.
carol ann says
Love, love, love the clean simplicity! Winner!
Wenche Fleischer says
Beautiful. You are such an inspiration. ?
Denise Terry says
Awesome job and love the colors! I’m going to start spending my lunch time watching you the way you watch Gina K ?
Dori Garbutt says
Your card inspires me! I see topiary cards being sent to all my daughter/daughters-in-laws for Mother’s Day! Now I must put the topiary stamp and dies on my list. It’s a NEED!
Joni Arcocha says
What a sweet simple card Cathy!!! You did an amazing job on the layering. I have not used the layering technique yet but this makes me want to try!!! I used to be hard core scrapbooker but in the past few years have been a card maker (you know when your kids go off to college and you have fewer photo ops). I’ve taken several of Jen’s card classes and my love of Hero Arts stamps stems from there!
hugs,
joni
Tracy Rizzo says
I’m a new card maker inspired by your enthusiasm for it! Thank you. Love your card.
Marcie Lovett says
Very pretty with that blended background. Hero Arts layering stamps are great (and the directions are helpful, too ?)
Deborah Cartwright says
So soft and pretty.
Debra says
Hi Cathy,
I love your card. It is simple and elegant. The colors are perfect and you did a great job layering. Thank you for sharing.
Donna says
And once again, I’m buying more stamps and supplies because of you. You’re such an enabler. (And I love this card! I’ve said it before and I’m saying it again, I will never get tired of your clean style.)
Jackie says
Your card is beautiful! It’s so much fun watching you learn new things and be so excited about it. I’ve learned things from you, too.
Shanna says
I love all of the ideas!
Kim Kern says
I love all the cards you are making. My wallet doesn’t like all the great tools/supplies that you are showing us!! I am expecting in the mailbox my Spellbinders Die Cut Machine today, and my Tim Holtz paper cutter soon!!! lol
Michelle Bradtke says
Love the simplicity of this card as well as the honest comments about the process you took to get here, Cathy! I was never a hiuge topiary fan, but I am now!
Donna Ligon says
Very simple and elegant card. Thanks for sharing
scrapper al says
Adorable card! I love how you keep it real. Maybe the packaging tip will help another newbie stamper.
Casey Ward says
Very pretty cards! Those colors are right up my alley!!!
Adriana Weingart says
This is a lovely card! I still have some difficulties working with stamps, but you did it wonderfully!
I started my adventure in handcraft with cards (parchment, and then, teabag folding), back in the 90’s… Only in 2006 I was introduced to Scrapbooking… I did not make any card for some time, but this is my first passion… 🙂
O'Reilly Lisa says
Simple and well done.
Bertha says
Love this beautiful clean and simple card!
Linda Towill says
Beautiful card! I would not have thought to make a pink topiary but I’m glad you did. Now I really need that stamp set!
Cheryl Robertson says
Beautiful card! I have trouble with stamp layering sets too. Not for me.
Kathy says
This card is beautiful in its simplicity! Another stamp set I must have!
Marion says
Love the sponged background around the focal image.
Suzi Metcalfe says
You’ve just given me another incentive to heal from back surgeries (Tuesday and tommorow) , get home and get crafting! Thanks!
Marti T says
Really like the card; especially the soft blending with the ink behind the flowers – thanks for the tip when layering!
Marion says
Absolutely stunning. Prisma pencils are my favorites.
JANIS LITYNSKY says
This is the sweetest card every… just made me smile … Thanks so much..
Alysia Heward says
You are so talented…. I love your work!
Maria B says
I too have had trouble figuring out how best to layer certain stamps. Don’t feel bad.
Gretchen says
Such a sweet card! I’m not normally a pink card person, but this one makes me go “aww” in such a good way!
Janet D. says
I just love this card, so sweet and simple!
Torbett Melinda says
Beautiful in pink!
Corina Dickey says
This is a must have stamp set! Lovely card! Thank you for sharing
Betty says
this topiary is such a fun, fresh design and love it stamped in pink!!
Gail Anderson says
Ha ha! Love your story about struggling with the layering! This stamp set is in my wishlist and will be ordered soon!
Lori B. says
I love your card! I enjoy making cards but haven’t done so in a long time…unfortunately.
Tami says
I seriously love this card & stamp set!! ?
I guess I fall somewhere in between. I’ve made lots of cards over the years, but love getting ideas from others.
Thank you for the giveaway!!
Caly Person says
Your card is so sweet, Cathy! So glad you used this stamp set because now I can visualize it!
Z Sullivan says
I love the softness and simplicity of your design. I have a hard time with layering stamps even with the instructions; there’s definitely a learning curve there. TFS.
DonnaMarie says
lovely card! Soft, simple, has a calming affect to the look, understated is the best look.
Debbie Lemarbre says
Very pretty
Cynthia Cole says
Your card is wonderful!
Georgia Gunn says
Great simple clean card.
Debbie D says
I love the simplicity of your cards, this is a really cute set!
Donna Griffin says
Love Love Love your work! This card turned out beautiful and I too still struggle with the layering! This is a beautiful stamp set and is now on the ever growing wish list!
As always, a great job! So glad you have become a card maker!
jen forster says
So pretty! Love your design and the colors –
Carol A Godfrey says
Very pretty card your very funny thanks for sharing
Iris Soscia says
So pretty – love the blended backgrounc.
Robyn says
Hi there! Beautiful card! I love the pink!! The Layered Topiary Stamps are gorgeous!!!! I’m a new card maker and I’m really enjoying today’s blog hop, I’m learning SO much! You ladies are inspiring me more then you know ?
Barbara Lambe says
I love the pinks that you used.
Sue says
Cathy, I love that you went with pink for the topiary. It took the card in a different direction.
Liz McAllister says
There are so many stamps I love from this release! Love that pink!
Julie says
Pretty card. I’m a “ seasoned” card maker (x 14 years) and prior to that I was a watercolorist. I did come to art later in life (age 35) and prior to that had never held a brush ??
Teresa says
Cathy, I’ve been following along on your cardmaking discovery journey and I’ve been doing the same thing as you. Amassing all of the things! 🙂 I dabbled in cardmaking a bit years ago but went full throttle over a year ago and I’ve never looked back!
Janet says
Stunning card, I can picture this in a variety of colors!!
Kelli C says
Simple and lovely card! Thanks for sharing!
Lillian T conradi says
I really like the topiary card you created using pinks and other bright colors! Best, Lee
Danni M says
Your card is so cute, I love the colors! Thanks for sharing!
Tina K says
I like the use of pink for the topiary! Good way to think outside the box.
Kathy Burgess says
I have always loved topiaries, and your card is just gorgeous using the new Stamps! I might have to get this set.
Kim L. says
I want so badly to be a card maker! Seeing posts like this make it hard not to go buy all the things and try it out; maybe I will win the giveaway!
Dee Ann Matthews says
Terrific multicolored topiary with a matching background!
Barbara S says
Love your topiary card! Yes, the layering will be a challenge, but the result is so worth it! (Hope I can remember that while I am cussing a little as I try to line things up.)
Ronnie Klatt says
Such a pretty card. Love the colors.
Becky reeder says
What a lovely card! I always enjoy your commentary. I have been making cards for many years but always love new inspiration!
Deborah P says
I made 1 card years ago and it looked homemade (not in a good way). You are inspiring me, but I haven’t taken the plunge yet. Am enjoying your card-making journey so much, so please keep sharing.
Stef Perry says
Love your card Cathy and your humorous telling of your stamping adventures! I’ve been card making for 11 years, and trust me, we all started out with similar learning curves on the basics. And even now, there are always new things, techniques, etc. to learn, but I think that is a big part of the fun. So well done with this adorable card!
Billie says
Love your cards! You are inspiring me to start!
geri S. says
Perfectly sweet card from a perfect company and perfect catalog!
Kelly B. says
As always, I love the clean and simple look you always do so well.
Isabelle says
Your card is beautiful and very elegant ! The colors are perfectly matching. It’s really a great card.
Deb A. says
I see I am not the only one who has trouble with layered stamping! : ^ )
Sheri K says
How pretty! Love the colors of your great card.
Sheila Bacon says
What an elegant looking card. I appreciate the soft look and the layering. Definitely a card to be treasured.
Leslie S says
Like your cute card. Hero Arts is a great company
Kirsty Vittetoe says
This card is so pretty!
Carol says
Such a sweet card with simplicity that packs a punch. (Canada)
Lindar C says
Your card is lovely. I always have trouble aligning layering stamps, even the ones they say are “super easy” ha. But I keep trying because I love them.
krock says
So elegant and beautiful. Just love your card.
Charlotte Canning says
Wow! What a darling card. I love its sweetness and simplicity.
Johanna M says
What a pretty card! After years of crafting and cardmaking I’m definitely not a beginner anymore, but also far from a pro. So, somewhere in between and hoping to get better at it as I go along. 🙂
Carolyn S says
What a wonderful card! Love the pinks – so hopefully spring. I am a ‘somewhere in between’ stamper. I watch so many videos I think I know exactly what I am doing but then I go to my craft area and, alas, mayhem.
Helen says
Such a beautiful and simple card using my favourite colours. I too struggled with blending but a year later am much better. Reason? The sponges are now loaded with colour. Who knew?!
Liz Navickas says
Very nice card, love the soft pink effect that you achieved behind the topiary.
Rema DeLeeuw says
Lovely card!
Meg says
Cathy you are adorable! Also, love the card! sweet, simple and adorable as well! 🙂
Thanks for all the tips!
Robin says
The topiary is crisp and clean and beautiful
Nancy Fleming says
I love your card! It is clean and simple looking card, but it does have depth. I have been making cards off and on for years, but without all the bells and whistles that are available now. I love all the new possibilities! I first started following you on Instagram and found your video stories a hoot.
Della says
I think these topiary stamps and dies are so pretty. Nice job and I would definitely consider purchasing them.
Jilla W. says
Nailed it! I want this set!!
sharon says
I see this set used for the 4th of July with red, white, and blue.
Anne Sturgeon says
Love this set. The softness of the pinks is perfection. Nicely done.
Sylvia gale says
This is so simply beatiful!
Karen Davis says
The topiary is so pretty. Layering stamps are my favorites, and Hero Arts makes some great ones, and you use it very well.
Linda Petersen says
I think I’m somewhere in between?
NatQuebec says
Hihi funny story but fantastic topiary.
Amy H. says
I think I am in love with this stamp set. I just love your card!
Carmen de los Reyes says
Classic look with a twist. Very pretty card!
Lydia S says
I was a serious card maker until about 3 years ago. When we sold our house and moved to an apartment I had to give up my stamps, paper, ink etc. There are times I really miss my supplies-especially when I got to the store and can’t seem to find the right card!
lee says
love your post and your card!
Cathy R says
Pretty. Love how it layers.
Sue D says
So pretty in the shades of pink.
Katie says
I love this card – looks like you’ve taken to card making like a pro! 🙂 I’ve been at it several years, but just as a hobby.
SmilynStef says
Look at your rocking the ink sponging … pretty card design.
Deanna Snelson says
I love the soft shadow you put behind the flower and the dimension the layering of the flower gives. Beautiful.
Marsha Guskey says
Lovely soft card. I have been making cards for over a year and there are so many card craft items I want. Thanks!
Heather Mills says
This is so gorgeous!!! What a fabulous stamp and I love all the pink on your card!
Tracy says
Beautiful card! I struggle with layering stamps set as well but you’ve given me the courage to try this set!
linda says
I’m really a scrapbooker, but I find a lot of card making techniques can be used. So, I guess you can say not a newbie card maker, but I should be. 😉
Amy Wazwaz says
I love this topiary stamp set. It is so classy looking. I think this will be a must have. Your card is beautiful.
Barb Housner says
your card is very beautiful
thanks for sharing your creativity
Suzy Girl says
Cathy, it’s so great to see you get into card making. You make me laugh with the learning curve. It’s definitely addicting!
Mel H says
What a beautiful card Cathy! Love the colors.
JODI M HUFENDICK says
I just started the stamp set, and this beautiful card you created is making me even more happy that I did.
mary neubauer says
Layering sets are tricky for me too! This is really peaceful to look at.
Laurie Fleuette says
Such a lovely card! I have been stamping for almost 20 years and still don’t feel like a seasoned pro after seeing all the creations on this blog. Thanks for the inspiration.
Frances Thorpe says
Simple but stunning
Susan says
What a striking application of the topiary stamp and die! Great color and contrast.
Leila Larson says
I’m so glad you are making cards now. I really enjoy the Hero Arts monthly card kits.
Cynthia B. says
Gorgeous card! Glad you were able to work out the layering. 😉
Laura Peddicord says
I really like your card using this topiary stamp. It’s small, yet very full of details, and the colors you used make it even more appealing. I’m a somewhere-in-between card maker and always looking for something to learn!
Jodi Warren says
I think this card was perfect. The stamp set is intriguing me. You may have sold me on it. Great card for doing new things with the new stamps.
Elizabeth Motyka says
Love?your colors the layering turned out great!
Judy Jeffers says
I think this is my favourite set in the release… Thanks for posting such a cute card..you make it look easy!
Chris Wright says
Im getting used to layering too! This is so cute – the ink behind the diecuts really make them pop.
Sparrow says
The simplicity of your card is both refreshing and elegant, and your humor, as always, brightened my day. Thanks for keeping it real! I’m glad I’m not the only one still trying to figure out layering stamps.
I’ve been making cards ever since I got the Klutz “Handmade Cards” kit for my tenth birthday, so that’s well over a decade of card-making, but I feel like a new card-maker since I only recently discovered the existence of stamp companies that make designs that suit my style (no more hopelessly browsing the Michaels stamp aisle and wincing at tacky fonts and cliche images!). Copics, die-cuts, and techniques like masking have also be revolutionary for me. In the past two years I’ve graduated from the “homemade card” look to the “handmade card” look, but I’m still trying to achieve consistently clean and professional designs. Watching your journey has been inspiring, since what you make looks fantastic but you’re so honest about the difficulties. Keep on creating, Cathy!
Denise Bryant says
I’m in love with this gorgeous Layered Topiary set! Beautiful card! Pretty colors.
April Rogers says
Hi Cathy, Love your card! TFS
I have been making cards for some time but I don’t consider myself anywhere near a pro… Far from it… But I do enjoy playing with my papers and inks. and have been learning so much from blog hops like this one to continue to learn new and better things. Love how you used your color and stamps sweet.
XO April
Cynthia Clark says
I love, love, love the pink! I recently got a catalog in the mail with pink flowered topiary. I thought it would look neat with my teal door.
Allison says
Hey Cathy nice job with the embossing powder. I don’t think I have touched that in 20 years. Oooh that makes me sound old.
Meghan Shea says
I really love your clean and simple cardmaking (and of course your snarky sentiments – my most favorite new set is your hello sentiments from sss!) Thanks for being inspiring, always!
Christina Brashears says
This card is sooo sweet. Love the way the stamp works. Thank you for the idea
Carol K says
lovely card … beautiful new stamp set
Connie says
This so pretty. I love pink.
Star Iwalani Young says
Cathy! I just love your sweet spirit and your card is beautiful! I am a newbie to this and love watching the tutorials, I learn so much! Jennifer is my favorite she is so humble and her talent is truly heaven sent! You are coming along great and will be layering and embossing with the best of them before you know it !
Judy says
I love the topiary set and the lovely card you made using it!
Christi Conley says
I love this set! Topiary’s are so fun and I LOVE what you did with your background.
Wendy O'dell says
I love it! Everyone always thinks topiary – green, right? No, you tbink out of the box. Love the different shades of pink. It’s eye catching and very pretty. Exactly what this topiary needed❤
Arianna Barbara says
Wow! Your card is simply stunning!!!
I love your colouring!!!
Daniela May says
Wow Cathy – what a beautiful card – love the softness and the clean finish. Interesting seeing how people use these stamps/dies – at a first glance I will probably dismiss the set but seeing some of the work on this hop it’s really amazing. Thanks for sharing
Pati G says
I love how you softened the background . I have been making cards for a few years but still have alot to learn!!!
Lisa says
this is a lovely blog to read, thanks a lot, and your card is gorgeous !
Kathy Eddy says
How pretty is this little topiary! Love your colors also!
Shannah says
Love the simplicity of this card. Fabulous.
Janet Ingraham says
Love the colors in your topiary
Susan King says
Well loved stamped are such a blessing as we love them enough to use them over and over! Love the softness that you brought to this card!
Kimberly Berry says
A much needed “spring” boost of colors after a long winter , So cute!
Ginger says
Well done!
Aimee LaCroix-Slocum says
Your card is SO sweet! I love the colors you used and the softness the sponge dauber added to the background…..Glad to have you in the cardmaking world!
Lillian T conradi says
I really like those topiary stamps. I was just doing the layering set from Hero on the rose,
3 layers. But I have to get green and brown to finish the stem, will do later.
Embossing can really give glam to a card!
Donna says
I loved that topiary image when i first saw it! Great job on your card!
D.Ann C says
Thanks for the chuckles… we’ve all been there! I love the blooming colors you chose for your topiary instead of just greens! and the soft pink glow behind makes it dazzling!
D.Ann C says
And, yes, I’ve been making cards for over a decade now, but still feel like a newbie at times, too!
Lisa says
Beautiful card! i love the topiary done in pink, it’s so pretty! I would have never thought of using pink but it works! BTW it always helps to turn the package over and see what’s on the back! LOL – sounds like something I would do! Thanks for sharing with us!
Jane says
I want this set so bad! You are such an enabler 😛
I am a long time card maker using mostly Copics but this year also included more stamping and die cutting along with you…again….enabler! lol
Karen Judy says
What an elegant yet simple design. The colors used are gorgeous and really pull the whole design together.
Jean k says
Love the softness of the card done in pinks
Linda Rink says
As they say-“Pretty in Pink” and your card is very pretty! Thanks for your inspiration with this new stamp set.
LauraB says
Cathy, glad to see this stamp set used as I had given it a pass cause I couldn’t figure it out. Nice to know there are instructions that come with it!
Penny Hanuszak says
What a pretty card Cathy. I love the topiary image in pink. So feminine. The pounced back ground is pretty too……just enough. Sometimes these layering stamps are tricky to figure out so glad someone else has the same kind of missteps I might have. Made me chuckle to know you just had to pause and flip over the packaging….. very handy by the way. Thanks for inspiring.
Ronda says
Your card is amazing!! I live the clean and simple look.
Marilyn Patrick says
Beautiful and so inspiring!
Monica W says
What a great card, feeling spring already!
Lisa A creations says
Loving the colors you used! Those pinks just make the topiaries pop!
justasiam says
Totally gorgeous card and wonderful colour choices!
Robin P says
Your card is wonderful. I would not have guessed you to be a newbie. Thanks for bringing a smile to my face today with your commentary.
Kristin says
Love, love, love!
Katie says
What a pretty card! I like the idea of sponging on a single color to avoid problems with blending, especially for such a small area.
Barbara Walborn says
Darling little topiary. Sponging the color in the back really made it stand out.
Kris Schleich says
Thank you for sharing your talent!
Debbie B says
Your card is SO PRETTY! Love that you did it in pink! Makes me want to get this stamp set! Loving this blog hop with all it’s talent! Thanks for sharing yours!
Brenda Kuder says
I love the card. Very pretty. It is a stamp set I would love to own.
Beth Merrill says
I just love your card AND your sense of humor. Thanks for sharing!
Julia D. says
Love your card! The soft pink background is lovely and softens the card. As for my experience level – I’m pretty seasoned at the basics but tend to shy away from new techniques so I’m good at a small portion of card making. I need to get over my fear and just experiment, I know!
Jenell says
The colors you chose for your card are perfect. And so glad you joined the card-making frenzy!
cyndi morris says
Your coloring is absolutely gorgeous. Beautiful card.
Annette Gordon says
WOW! I love that layering stamp! So cool. And the card you made was stunning! Love the pinks.
Thersha Lewis says
Thanks for sharing your beautiful card and the embossing tips.
Sherri Ferguson says
This stamp set is perfect for my card making for the ladies of my church. The sentiments are ones I can use over and over again. Thank you for your beautiful but simple card idea.
Victoria Banaszak says
I am really liking this stamp set more every time I see it. Your card is so pretty.
Jeanne Beam says
Beautiful card. Love the colors and it’s simplicity. Thanks for sharing…
Annalisa says
I don’t know exactly what it is about this set, but I really love it. And I would absolutely be that person asking the owner for help only to find out there were instructions on the back the whole time. *facepalm* Fortunately crafty people are really nice and they’ll only gently mock you for that instead of meanly mock you. 😉 Thanks for sharing with us!
Cindy Ziliak says
Awesome job! I never look for directions until I have to! Lol
Michelle Lupton says
This blog hop is dangerous – my wish list just keeps getting bigger!
Rosalie H says
So cute! I learned that I need a magic embossing bag. I love to emboss and with that bag I’ll love it more!
Paula Haller says
Oh my! Your pink topiary is beautiful. I love the clean look to this card.
Anita Sorensen says
The pink shadow behind the topiary gives it a nice glow.
Alice Smith says
Aha! Thanks for the tip of using the embossing buddy. No more messy embossing.
Alice Smith says
Aha! Thanks telling me about the embossing buddy. No more messy embossing.
Terrie D. says
What a gorgeous card! I just love topiaries! I would say I’m an advanced beginner card maker 🙂 I’ve made pretty simple cards, but I recently got supplies so I can start using embossing powders.
treen (katrine leber) says
I love topiaries and you really did them so well! I love the colors that you chose. What a lovely card! hugs, treen
Portia says
So so pretty! And simple! Still love simple! Thanks Cathy!
Toni C says
So pretty, love the pink ‘halo’.
Christy Q says
What a gorgeous card, Cathy! I love the CAS look and how you added the pink behind the topiary to make everything stand out. Thank you also for being “real” when it comes to sharing your creating experience – makes me feel normal with my “d’oh” moments. 🙂
Joy says
Love this card, so pretty and simple.
Patty Eifert says
Pretty card!! I really like the look of that topiary stamp set!! Love your story about the layering guide!! And it’s definitely the small things!!
Sharon in CA says
Love this sweet card. I have seen this stamp set and didn’t think much-now I see it in a new light! Thanks Cathy! You have embraced card making-so proud of you!!
Milli D says
Love this one! I’ve been making cards for years, but always feel like a newbie (not a bad thing) since there are always new techniques to learn and try. Yuh killin’ it, Cathy, just killin’ it! 🙂
Nina says
Sweet card!
Anushree Vaish says
So pretty….thanks for sharing
Amy D says
Beautiful color combination! Simple & elegant. Love it!
Tina Dorrington says
Love the colors and the highlight
Amy says
Thanks for sharing.
Mitzi says
I like that you used colors other than green for your topiary.
Angie Hall says
Great job on the beautiful card. You are not the only one who struggles with layering stamps. I’m still fighting that battle. I’m not a newbie time wise. I’ve been making cards for many years. Skill-wise and quick production wise I’m mediocre. But enjoyment wise, I’m an expert. BTW, I’ve learned lots of tricks from Jennifer McQuire over the years too. Good luck to you.
Anniek says
So beautiful!
Dana M says
Terrific card! So fun to see the topiary in pink!
Lee O. says
Glad to know I’m not the only one that’s ‘layering challenged’! Thanks for the grin and the inspiration.
Henriëtte says
Indeed Cathy, the little things, glad I am not the only one who somethimes need a friend who can tell me the obvious (LOL). Gorgeous card with a great stampset! I love the colours you used.
Linda says
Cathy thanks so much for sharing your idea. I love, love, love the pink background behind the topiary. I’ve been stamping card for quite a while, but I’m much better at copying other people’s ideas than designing my own.
Woendi Levitt says
Love this stamp set-SO MANY possibilities. Your colors are beautiful
Tammy L says
Love the card! I’m kind of in the middle of the cardmaking scale…not a newbie but not an expert either, still learning it! Thanks for sharing your lovely card and amazing tips!
scrappyrat says
I’d say I’m somewhere in between. I’ve been making cards for quite a while, but I still have a lot to learn about so many techniques. It seems like just when I reach a point where I feel like I might be getting accomplished in card making, I find so much more to learn. That’s kind of true of everything though. 🙂
F. Andre says
This Topiary set is fabulous. Love your card.
Betty Lim-Silvernail says
Thank you for showing us your lovely card. I am in between a newbie and seasoned card maker.
barbara lassiter says
This was simply elegant and beautiful. I’m a long time fan of Hero Arts and a long time card maker, too. However, there’s always something more to learn and I love it! 🙂
Kris in Alaska says
What a lovely topiary set! You do it proud!
Catherine in Colorado says
Love the pinks on the topiary! What fun! The sponging behind is brilliant! Thanks Cathy!
Tanja Souter. says
I guess I am closer to a seasoned pro than a beginner, I have been card making for 11 or 12 years and scrapping for longer. Your card is so pretty I love the CAS feel and the smooth blending behind the image.
Glenda Dopking says
Simple elegance is what I have to call this card. It is soft and so pretty in pink! It is all about the “little things” as you said but it sure helps to have someone to ask too – LOL! I don’t think we ever stop learning something new along the way in this creative craft we have taken up. Thanks so much for being so honest, I laughed and could truly appreciate what you said! Hero Arts did an amazing job with this release.
Annette Reed says
Very sweet card. The colored background adds to the topiary and really makes it stand out. Thanks.
Susan Bennett says
I am happy to find out that I am not the only one that struggles with lining things up, I am pretty new to card making so being a newbie can be frustrating at times!!
Laura Buehler says
I see I’m not the only one who thought of using the topiary stamps with colors other than green. My first thought when I saw them is how you could use them as single flowers with a variety of different colors & there are so many possibilities with those stamps outside of just the topiary look. Don’t get me wrong, I like the topiaries, but I also like products that can be used in many different ways.
Sue McRae says
I am totally smitten with this charming topiary!
Gabriella B says
Oh my Goodness, I love your colors and I love how you put the pink on pink, I would not have thought of that but I love it.
Karen L K says
That is such a nice card! That topiary is so cute and the colors you used are very nice. Especially nice is the pink behind your image.
Karen Hale says
Loved your true story…sometimes I so excited to start using a new layering stamp (and I ADORE Hero Arts) I neglect to look on the back to see the coloring steps!! I passed on the Topiary stamp, but you’ve inspired me to give it another look. Your card is so pretty. I especially love the shaded background.
Jayell says
Gorgeous card Cathy, and I love the colours.
Marjorie DUMONTIER says
Oh my !! This is such a fantastic card !!
[margessw(at)icloud(dot)com]
pat smith says
Cathy, I love the colors you used. I have never tried the topiary images. I love the idea of the directions on the back of the package! I am drooling over this set and the large dauber! Great job, and I am going to sub to your blog. Thanks for your beautiful work. Clean and Simple is my favorite.
Bonnie Barton says
What a lovely card! I’ve been quite intimidated by the thought of making greeting cards but it really does not have to be difficult, does it? Sometimes simplicity is best and most effective way to go.
Helen McGrath says
simply love, love, love these cards ideas!
Karen Page says
I love how your card turned out, and you are seriously too hard on yourself! I’ve been making cards for 12 years now, so I guess you would call me a seasoned pro, but I’m still learning new techniques, and remembering ones I had forgotten… all.the.time. LOL 12 years, and my chances of remembering to use the anti-static bag is still only 50% because I get caught up in the excitement of wanting to see the card come together 🙂
Marie Flayer says
Fabulous card! I love the pink shading behind the flowers–it really makes them “pop”. I’ve been stamping since 1992 so that should make me an expert. Thanks for inspiring me today!
🙂 Marie
Ann Eslinger says
I never would’ve thought to make a pink topiary, but it’s adorable. Thanks for the idea.
Miriam Prantner says
Love the pink topiary and the inked shadow behind it too!
SuzanD. says
So soft and pretty. Love it.
Cathy Lillie says
What a pretty card! I love the topiary done in pinks! It’s nice to know that I’m not the only one with newbie issues. I have a different Hero Arts layering stamp and when I first used it I was so confused I stamped it in the wrong order. Then I realized they have a step by step guide on the back! Your card turned out fantastic!
Judie Attard says
Absolutely stunning card! I’ve been crafting for as long as I remember, and making cards consistently for a handful of years now!
Aisha Roberts says
This is such a cute card. I’m a newbie cardmaker too so I get were you are coming from lol
Jackie Price says
Your card turned out just lovely. The blending is beautiful! I’m somewhere in between but there are a lot of techniques and mediums that I have yet to try so I’d say I’m closer to the newbie side of things.
Katya says
Cathy, you made a pink tree and you made it look so lovely with an inked background. That is a win as far as I am concerned. Thanks for sharing such a sweet card. I guess ‘seasoned pro’ but with all the excitement of a newbie. You made me laugh so much about the embossing powder. 😉
kim benjamin says
Hop hop
Deepti Aggarwal says
Awww.. such a lovely card..love the soft colors.
Berina says
Such a lovely card!! I love the soft ink blending behind the image.
Flo says
Your card is so pretty, pretty in pink. This stamp set looks so different stamped than it does in the package.
Heather DePasquale says
Love your pink watercolor background to your topiary. So fresh!
Kathy McCreary says
Love your card! I haven’t tried the layered stamps yet. Anxious to try some! Thank you!
Margery C says
Pretty in Pink card. Lovely. I’m an intermediate stamper. Always learning from all the fab stampers from all over the world.
Carol Celest says
Love these topiary stamps!
Mateja P says
Lovely card 🙂 I’m somewhere in between. I’m making cards for a few years now, but I learn something new everyday 🙂
melissa edwards says
I love the simplicity of this precious, precious card! It gives me inspiration today as I am limited to what I can do lately! Running to my craft table now!!!
Janet Trapp says
Nice card love the pink color!
God bless!?
Stacey Kowbel says
Love your card! I showcases this stamp set so well – I think it needs to be on my must have list!
Cindy C. says
Oh this is so cute, I love that you went with the non-traditional way and used pink on the topiary!
Hannah says
Simply elegant, so soft and pretty
Barbara-Jean says
Great card, coloring and shading…would never know you’re a newbie!
JoAnneR says
Such beautiful color. I am such a fan of clean and simple. And I am sure I am your biggest fan. So glad you joined the card making scene.
Maryvel says
Hi there! You did such a beautiful job with this card! Just wanted to tell you I got this set too and had a horrible, horrible time lining up those stamps! First time layering and this was definitely NOT the right set to start with! I must have spent almost an hour last night stamping the fist two bushes! Had to finally just go to bad and today I worked at it again and even thought still not perfect is it getting better trying all kinds of tricks to get it right the next time.
Cathy Zielske says
Hello Maryvel!
Well that makes me feel less like I’m the only one! : )