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CZ Design

Hero Arts 2018 Catalog Blog Hop + Giveaway!

February 15, 2018

Hero Arts 2018 Catalog Blog Hop + Giveaway!

cathyzielske.com | hero arts blog hop spring 2018

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!

cathyzielske.com | hero arts blog hop spring 2018

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 Zielskeβ€”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:
Affiliate links are used in this post and below at no additional cost to you. I receive a small percent of compensation when you click through and shop using the provided links. Thank you!Β 


 

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. amy says

    February 15, 2018 at 6:30 am

    Your card is just wonderful…the colors are perfect!

    Reply
  2. Rubeena Ianigro says

    February 15, 2018 at 6:31 am

    Such a pretty card! Haha, you’re cute. I have a hard time layering things, too! Don’t worry it turned out great!!

    Reply
  3. Karthikha Uday says

    February 15, 2018 at 6:37 am

    Fantastic card!! Simple, super beautiful and soft!

    Reply
  4. Paula Desmarais says

    February 15, 2018 at 6:45 am

    Such a beautiful card! Thank you so much for sharing πŸ™‚

    Reply
  5. Cara P says

    February 15, 2018 at 6:46 am

    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!

    Reply
  6. Angela R says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:04 am

    This is so soft and beautiful. I love the use of the pinks for the topiary!

    Reply
  7. Jan Elmore says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:19 am

    Not sure if it’s the colors or the simple design elements, but this card is amazing!

    Reply
  8. Sarah Armstrong says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:21 am

    Love your card and love HERO stamps!

    Reply
  9. Elizabeth Burke says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:28 am

    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

    Reply
  10. Tara Prince says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:37 am

    Gorgeous card!!

    Reply
  11. Sherry B says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:39 am

    Simply elegant!

    Reply
  12. Jennifer A says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:43 am

    Your card is so lovely! Thanks for a chance!

    Reply
  13. Natalie Winterstein says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:48 am

    Lovely card! The topiary is so beautiful!

    Reply
  14. Linda Spryshak says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:55 am

    Beautiful card! The layering and colors are wonderful!

    Reply
  15. Tracey Magner says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:59 am

    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.

    Reply
  16. Natalie Dominguez says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:02 am

    I love the blended background! My narrow mind doesn’t know how to think outside of the lines (box).

    Reply
  17. Kim W says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:07 am

    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 πŸ™‚

    Reply
  18. Sharon O says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:11 am

    Love your card and the blog entry; you are SO honest and encouraging!

    Reply
  19. Dionne says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:12 am

    Love your card. I am not a card maker but would love to try it.

    Reply
  20. Lisa Wright says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:13 am

    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!!

    Reply
  21. Glenda says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:15 am

    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.

    Reply
  22. Sherri says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:16 am

    Love the pink topiary!

    Reply
  23. Suz Gray says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:18 am

    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

    Reply
  24. Debbie Rumpza says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:25 am

    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!

    Reply
  25. Joyce Gary says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:32 am

    Glad you are making cards because you are good. Thanks.

    Reply
  26. Vikki H says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:33 am

    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.

    Reply
  27. Kathleen D says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:34 am

    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.

    Reply
  28. Teresa Doyle says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:39 am

    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!

    Reply
  29. Amber says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:41 am

    Adorbs❣️ Inspires me to take another stab at laying stamps.

    Reply
  30. Kathy Meredith says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:42 am

    Beautiful card! Simple, elegant and you could make it perfect for anything in spring!

    Reply
  31. jackie d says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:50 am

    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!

    Reply
  32. Diane Koele says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:55 am

    I love this new layering stamp set and can see tons of uses for it. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  33. Chris C says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:56 am

    Love the simplicity of this card! Great job! I am a seasoned card maker.

    Reply
  34. Steph Brubaker says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:57 am

    Seriously LOVE the topiary! Nice work:)

    Reply
  35. Betty C says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:08 am

    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!

    Reply
  36. Christina Dauven says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:13 am

    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.

    Reply
  37. Andrea MariΓ±o says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:16 am

    Great ideas! thanks for sharing πŸ˜‰

    Reply
  38. Viveca V. says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:18 am

    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!

    Reply
  39. Patti Harris says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:21 am

    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.

    Reply
  40. Toni Gillette says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:21 am

    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! ?

    Reply
  41. Luci Manos says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:22 am

    What a beautiful clean and simple card! Thanks for the inspiration.

    Reply
  42. Kathy Brewer says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:33 am

    Can’t wait to get my hands on some of these! Thanks for the ideas!

    Reply
  43. Teri S. says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:34 am

    Soft & pretty CAS card. Just lovely.

    Reply
  44. Tonia Sims says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:38 am

    Elegant and eye-catching card! Lovely. I’m a newbie card maker and appreciate the inspiration.

    Reply
  45. Linda S. says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:40 am

    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.

    Reply
  46. Judy Bowlby says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:40 am

    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.

    Reply
  47. Kendra says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:41 am

    I am loving the topiaries. I like layering stamps but am still learning them, too.

    Reply
  48. carol ann says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:42 am

    Love, love, love the clean simplicity! Winner!

    Reply
  49. Wenche Fleischer says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:50 am

    Beautiful. You are such an inspiration. ?

    Reply
  50. Denise Terry says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:56 am

    Awesome job and love the colors! I’m going to start spending my lunch time watching you the way you watch Gina K ?

    Reply
  51. Dori Garbutt says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:56 am

    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!

    Reply
  52. Joni Arcocha says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:57 am

    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

    Reply
  53. Tracy Rizzo says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:59 am

    I’m a new card maker inspired by your enthusiasm for it! Thank you. Love your card.

    Reply
  54. Marcie Lovett says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:07 am

    Very pretty with that blended background. Hero Arts layering stamps are great (and the directions are helpful, too ?)

    Reply
  55. Deborah Cartwright says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:12 am

    So soft and pretty.

    Reply
  56. Debra says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:14 am

    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.

    Reply
  57. Donna says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:20 am

    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.)

    Reply
  58. Jackie says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:34 am

    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.

    Reply
  59. Shanna says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:40 am

    I love all of the ideas!

    Reply
  60. Kim Kern says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:41 am

    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

    Reply
  61. Michelle Bradtke says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:42 am

    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!

    Reply
  62. Donna Ligon says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:12 am

    Very simple and elegant card. Thanks for sharing

    Reply
  63. scrapper al says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:16 am

    Adorable card! I love how you keep it real. Maybe the packaging tip will help another newbie stamper.

    Reply
  64. Casey Ward says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:24 am

    Very pretty cards! Those colors are right up my alley!!!

    Reply
  65. Adriana Weingart says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:26 am

    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… πŸ™‚

    Reply
  66. O'Reilly Lisa says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:27 am

    Simple and well done.

    Reply
  67. Bertha says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:29 am

    Love this beautiful clean and simple card!

    Reply
  68. Linda Towill says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:30 am

    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!

    Reply
  69. Cheryl Robertson says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:33 am

    Beautiful card! I have trouble with stamp layering sets too. Not for me.

    Reply
  70. Kathy says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:40 am

    This card is beautiful in its simplicity! Another stamp set I must have!

    Reply
  71. Marion says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:57 am

    Love the sponged background around the focal image.

    Reply
  72. Suzi Metcalfe says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:58 am

    You’ve just given me another incentive to heal from back surgeries (Tuesday and tommorow) , get home and get crafting! Thanks!

    Reply
  73. Marti T says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:58 am

    Really like the card; especially the soft blending with the ink behind the flowers – thanks for the tip when layering!

    Reply
  74. Marion says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:58 am

    Absolutely stunning. Prisma pencils are my favorites.

    Reply
  75. JANIS LITYNSKY says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:59 am

    This is the sweetest card every… just made me smile … Thanks so much..

    Reply
  76. Alysia Heward says

    February 15, 2018 at 12:00 pm

    You are so talented…. I love your work!

    Reply
  77. Maria B says

    February 15, 2018 at 12:15 pm

    I too have had trouble figuring out how best to layer certain stamps. Don’t feel bad.

    Reply
  78. Gretchen says

    February 15, 2018 at 12:21 pm

    Such a sweet card! I’m not normally a pink card person, but this one makes me go “aww” in such a good way!

    Reply
  79. Janet D. says

    February 15, 2018 at 12:21 pm

    I just love this card, so sweet and simple!

    Reply
  80. Torbett Melinda says

    February 15, 2018 at 12:33 pm

    Beautiful in pink!

    Reply
  81. Corina Dickey says

    February 15, 2018 at 12:37 pm

    This is a must have stamp set! Lovely card! Thank you for sharing

    Reply
  82. Betty says

    February 15, 2018 at 12:41 pm

    this topiary is such a fun, fresh design and love it stamped in pink!!

    Reply
  83. Gail Anderson says

    February 15, 2018 at 12:42 pm

    Ha ha! Love your story about struggling with the layering! This stamp set is in my wishlist and will be ordered soon!

    Reply
  84. Lori B. says

    February 15, 2018 at 12:53 pm

    I love your card! I enjoy making cards but haven’t done so in a long time…unfortunately.

    Reply
  85. Tami says

    February 15, 2018 at 12:54 pm

    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!!

    Reply
  86. Caly Person says

    February 15, 2018 at 1:15 pm

    Your card is so sweet, Cathy! So glad you used this stamp set because now I can visualize it!

    Reply
  87. Z Sullivan says

    February 15, 2018 at 1:25 pm

    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.

    Reply
  88. DonnaMarie says

    February 15, 2018 at 1:31 pm

    lovely card! Soft, simple, has a calming affect to the look, understated is the best look.

    Reply
  89. Debbie Lemarbre says

    February 15, 2018 at 1:31 pm

    Very pretty

    Reply
  90. Cynthia Cole says

    February 15, 2018 at 1:33 pm

    Your card is wonderful!

    Reply
  91. Georgia Gunn says

    February 15, 2018 at 1:35 pm

    Great simple clean card.

    Reply
  92. Debbie D says

    February 15, 2018 at 1:37 pm

    I love the simplicity of your cards, this is a really cute set!

    Reply
  93. Donna Griffin says

    February 15, 2018 at 1:37 pm

    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!

    Reply
  94. jen forster says

    February 15, 2018 at 1:41 pm

    So pretty! Love your design and the colors –

    Reply
  95. Carol A Godfrey says

    February 15, 2018 at 1:49 pm

    Very pretty card your very funny thanks for sharing

    Reply
  96. Iris Soscia says

    February 15, 2018 at 1:51 pm

    So pretty – love the blended backgrounc.

    Reply
  97. Robyn says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:00 pm

    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 ?

    Reply
  98. Barbara Lambe says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:03 pm

    I love the pinks that you used.

    Reply
  99. Sue says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:08 pm

    Cathy, I love that you went with pink for the topiary. It took the card in a different direction.

    Reply
  100. Liz McAllister says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:10 pm

    There are so many stamps I love from this release! Love that pink!

    Reply
  101. Julie says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:10 pm

    Pretty card. I’m a β€œ 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 ?‍?

    Reply
  102. Teresa says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:11 pm

    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! πŸ™‚ I dabbled in cardmaking a bit years ago but went full throttle over a year ago and I’ve never looked back!

    Reply
  103. Janet says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:14 pm

    Stunning card, I can picture this in a variety of colors!!

    Reply
  104. Kelli C says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:33 pm

    Simple and lovely card! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  105. Lillian T conradi says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:37 pm

    I really like the topiary card you created using pinks and other bright colors! Best, Lee

    Reply
  106. Danni M says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:42 pm

    Your card is so cute, I love the colors! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  107. Tina K says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:43 pm

    I like the use of pink for the topiary! Good way to think outside the box.

    Reply
  108. Kathy Burgess says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:53 pm

    I have always loved topiaries, and your card is just gorgeous using the new Stamps! I might have to get this set.

    Reply
  109. Kim L. says

    February 15, 2018 at 2:58 pm

    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!

    Reply
  110. Dee Ann Matthews says

    February 15, 2018 at 3:01 pm

    Terrific multicolored topiary with a matching background!

    Reply
  111. Barbara S says

    February 15, 2018 at 3:25 pm

    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.)

    Reply
  112. Ronnie Klatt says

    February 15, 2018 at 3:26 pm

    Such a pretty card. Love the colors.

    Reply
  113. Becky reeder says

    February 15, 2018 at 3:30 pm

    What a lovely card! I always enjoy your commentary. I have been making cards for many years but always love new inspiration!

    Reply
  114. Deborah P says

    February 15, 2018 at 3:43 pm

    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.

    Reply
  115. Stef Perry says

    February 15, 2018 at 3:43 pm

    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!

    Reply
  116. Billie says

    February 15, 2018 at 3:52 pm

    Love your cards! You are inspiring me to start!

    Reply
  117. geri S. says

    February 15, 2018 at 3:52 pm

    Perfectly sweet card from a perfect company and perfect catalog!

    Reply
  118. Kelly B. says

    February 15, 2018 at 3:54 pm

    As always, I love the clean and simple look you always do so well.

    Reply
  119. Isabelle says

    February 15, 2018 at 3:55 pm

    Your card is beautiful and very elegant ! The colors are perfectly matching. It’s really a great card.

    Reply
  120. Deb A. says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:08 pm

    I see I am not the only one who has trouble with layered stamping! : ^ )

    Reply
  121. Sheri K says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:14 pm

    How pretty! Love the colors of your great card.

    Reply
  122. Sheila Bacon says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:22 pm

    What an elegant looking card. I appreciate the soft look and the layering. Definitely a card to be treasured.

    Reply
  123. Leslie S says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:26 pm

    Like your cute card. Hero Arts is a great company

    Reply
  124. Kirsty Vittetoe says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:26 pm

    This card is so pretty!

    Reply
  125. Carol says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:26 pm

    Such a sweet card with simplicity that packs a punch. (Canada)

    Reply
  126. Lindar C says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:34 pm

    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.

    Reply
  127. krock says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:37 pm

    So elegant and beautiful. Just love your card.

    Reply
  128. Charlotte Canning says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:43 pm

    Wow! What a darling card. I love its sweetness and simplicity.

    Reply
  129. Johanna M says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:44 pm

    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. πŸ™‚

    Reply
  130. Carolyn S says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:47 pm

    What a wonderful card! Love the pinks – so hopefully spring. I am a β€˜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.

    Reply
  131. Helen says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:51 pm

    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?!

    Reply
  132. Liz Navickas says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:56 pm

    Very nice card, love the soft pink effect that you achieved behind the topiary.

    Reply
  133. Rema DeLeeuw says

    February 15, 2018 at 4:59 pm

    Lovely card!

    Reply
  134. Meg says

    February 15, 2018 at 5:02 pm

    Cathy you are adorable! Also, love the card! sweet, simple and adorable as well! πŸ™‚
    Thanks for all the tips!

    Reply
  135. Robin says

    February 15, 2018 at 5:07 pm

    The topiary is crisp and clean and beautiful

    Reply
  136. Nancy Fleming says

    February 15, 2018 at 5:19 pm

    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.

    Reply
  137. Della says

    February 15, 2018 at 5:28 pm

    I think these topiary stamps and dies are so pretty. Nice job and I would definitely consider purchasing them.

    Reply
  138. Jilla W. says

    February 15, 2018 at 5:31 pm

    Nailed it! I want this set!!

    Reply
  139. sharon says

    February 15, 2018 at 5:49 pm

    I see this set used for the 4th of July with red, white, and blue.

    Reply
  140. Anne Sturgeon says

    February 15, 2018 at 5:50 pm

    Love this set. The softness of the pinks is perfection. Nicely done.

    Reply
  141. Sylvia gale says

    February 15, 2018 at 5:56 pm

    This is so simply beatiful!

    Reply
  142. Karen Davis says

    February 15, 2018 at 6:08 pm

    The topiary is so pretty. Layering stamps are my favorites, and Hero Arts makes some great ones, and you use it very well.

    Reply
  143. Linda Petersen says

    February 15, 2018 at 6:21 pm

    I think I’m somewhere in between?

    Reply
  144. NatQuebec says

    February 15, 2018 at 6:41 pm

    Hihi funny story but fantastic topiary.

    Reply
  145. Amy H. says

    February 15, 2018 at 6:46 pm

    I think I am in love with this stamp set. I just love your card!

    Reply
  146. Carmen de los Reyes says

    February 15, 2018 at 6:49 pm

    Classic look with a twist. Very pretty card!

    Reply
  147. Lydia S says

    February 15, 2018 at 6:51 pm

    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!

    Reply
  148. lee says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:00 pm

    love your post and your card!

    Reply
  149. Cathy R says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:18 pm

    Pretty. Love how it layers.

    Reply
  150. Sue D says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:34 pm

    So pretty in the shades of pink.

    Reply
  151. Katie says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:46 pm

    I love this card – looks like you’ve taken to card making like a pro! πŸ™‚ I’ve been at it several years, but just as a hobby.

    Reply
  152. SmilynStef says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:51 pm

    Look at your rocking the ink sponging … pretty card design.

    Reply
  153. Deanna Snelson says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:00 pm

    I love the soft shadow you put behind the flower and the dimension the layering of the flower gives. Beautiful.

    Reply
  154. Marsha Guskey says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:08 pm

    Lovely soft card. I have been making cards for over a year and there are so many card craft items I want. Thanks!

    Reply
  155. Heather Mills says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:08 pm

    This is so gorgeous!!! What a fabulous stamp and I love all the pink on your card!

    Reply
  156. Tracy says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:21 pm

    Beautiful card! I struggle with layering stamps set as well but you’ve given me the courage to try this set!

    Reply
  157. linda says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:33 pm

    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. πŸ˜‰

    Reply
  158. Amy Wazwaz says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:41 pm

    I love this topiary stamp set. It is so classy looking. I think this will be a must have. Your card is beautiful.

    Reply
  159. Barb Housner says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:44 pm

    your card is very beautiful
    thanks for sharing your creativity

    Reply
  160. Suzy Girl says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:48 pm

    Cathy, it’s so great to see you get into card making. You make me laugh with the learning curve. It’s definitely addicting!

    Reply
  161. Mel H says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:49 pm

    What a beautiful card Cathy! Love the colors.

    Reply
  162. JODI M HUFENDICK says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:50 pm

    I just started the stamp set, and this beautiful card you created is making me even more happy that I did.

    Reply
  163. mary neubauer says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:51 pm

    Layering sets are tricky for me too! This is really peaceful to look at.

    Reply
  164. Laurie Fleuette says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:51 pm

    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.

    Reply
  165. Frances Thorpe says

    February 15, 2018 at 8:52 pm

    Simple but stunning

    Reply
  166. Susan says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:01 pm

    What a striking application of the topiary stamp and die! Great color and contrast.

    Reply
  167. Leila Larson says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:31 pm

    I’m so glad you are making cards now. I really enjoy the Hero Arts monthly card kits.

    Reply
  168. Cynthia B. says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:44 pm

    Gorgeous card! Glad you were able to work out the layering. πŸ˜‰

    Reply
  169. Laura Peddicord says

    February 15, 2018 at 9:57 pm

    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!

    Reply
  170. Jodi Warren says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:09 pm

    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.

    Reply
  171. Elizabeth Motyka says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:10 pm

    Love?your colors the layering turned out great!

    Reply
  172. Judy Jeffers says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:24 pm

    I think this is my favourite set in the release… Thanks for posting such a cute card..you make it look easy!

    Reply
  173. Chris Wright says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:42 pm

    Im getting used to layering too! This is so cute – the ink behind the diecuts really make them pop.

    Reply
  174. Sparrow says

    February 15, 2018 at 10:42 pm

    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!

    Reply
  175. Denise Bryant says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:17 pm

    I’m in love with this gorgeous Layered Topiary set! Beautiful card! Pretty colors.

    Reply
  176. April Rogers says

    February 15, 2018 at 11:25 pm

    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

    Reply
  177. Cynthia Clark says

    February 16, 2018 at 12:12 am

    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.

    Reply
  178. Allison says

    February 16, 2018 at 12:37 am

    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.

    Reply
  179. Meghan Shea says

    February 16, 2018 at 12:48 am

    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!

    Reply
  180. Christina Brashears says

    February 16, 2018 at 12:57 am

    This card is sooo sweet. Love the way the stamp works. Thank you for the idea

    Reply
  181. Carol K says

    February 16, 2018 at 1:08 am

    lovely card … beautiful new stamp set

    Reply
  182. Connie says

    February 16, 2018 at 1:20 am

    This so pretty. I love pink.

    Reply
  183. Star Iwalani Young says

    February 16, 2018 at 1:48 am

    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 !

    Reply
  184. Judy says

    February 16, 2018 at 2:04 am

    I love the topiary set and the lovely card you made using it!

    Reply
  185. Christi Conley says

    February 16, 2018 at 2:38 am

    I love this set! Topiary’s are so fun and I LOVE what you did with your background.

    Reply
  186. Wendy O'dell says

    February 16, 2018 at 4:25 am

    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❀

    Reply
  187. Arianna Barbara says

    February 16, 2018 at 4:31 am

    Wow! Your card is simply stunning!!!
    I love your colouring!!!

    Reply
  188. Daniela May says

    February 16, 2018 at 5:35 am

    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

    Reply
  189. Pati G says

    February 16, 2018 at 6:48 am

    I love how you softened the background . I have been making cards for a few years but still have alot to learn!!!

    Reply
  190. Lisa says

    February 16, 2018 at 7:06 am

    this is a lovely blog to read, thanks a lot, and your card is gorgeous !

    Reply
  191. Kathy Eddy says

    February 16, 2018 at 7:07 am

    How pretty is this little topiary! Love your colors also!

    Reply
  192. Shannah says

    February 16, 2018 at 7:18 am

    Love the simplicity of this card. Fabulous.

    Reply
  193. Janet Ingraham says

    February 16, 2018 at 7:36 am

    Love the colors in your topiary

    Reply
  194. Susan King says

    February 16, 2018 at 7:37 am

    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!

    Reply
  195. Kimberly Berry says

    February 16, 2018 at 7:54 am

    A much needed “spring” boost of colors after a long winter , So cute!

    Reply
  196. Ginger says

    February 16, 2018 at 9:02 am

    Well done!

    Reply
  197. Aimee LaCroix-Slocum says

    February 16, 2018 at 9:02 am

    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!

    Reply
  198. Lillian T conradi says

    February 16, 2018 at 9:22 am

    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!

    Reply
  199. Donna says

    February 16, 2018 at 9:30 am

    I loved that topiary image when i first saw it! Great job on your card!

    Reply
  200. D.Ann C says

    February 16, 2018 at 9:37 am

    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!

    Reply
    • D.Ann C says

      February 16, 2018 at 9:38 am

      And, yes, I’ve been making cards for over a decade now, but still feel like a newbie at times, too!

      Reply
  201. Lisa says

    February 16, 2018 at 9:43 am

    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!

    Reply
  202. Jane says

    February 16, 2018 at 9:46 am

    I want this set so bad! You are such an enabler πŸ˜›
    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

    Reply
  203. Karen Judy says

    February 16, 2018 at 9:59 am

    What an elegant yet simple design. The colors used are gorgeous and really pull the whole design together.

    Reply
  204. Jean k says

    February 16, 2018 at 10:01 am

    Love the softness of the card done in pinks

    Reply
  205. Linda Rink says

    February 16, 2018 at 10:25 am

    As they say-“Pretty in Pink” and your card is very pretty! Thanks for your inspiration with this new stamp set.

    Reply
  206. LauraB says

    February 16, 2018 at 10:45 am

    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!

    Reply
  207. Penny Hanuszak says

    February 16, 2018 at 11:04 am

    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.

    Reply
  208. Ronda says

    February 16, 2018 at 11:21 am

    Your card is amazing!! I live the clean and simple look.

    Reply
  209. Marilyn Patrick says

    February 16, 2018 at 11:57 am

    Beautiful and so inspiring!

    Reply
  210. Monica W says

    February 16, 2018 at 12:47 pm

    What a great card, feeling spring already!

    Reply
  211. Lisa A creations says

    February 16, 2018 at 1:00 pm

    Loving the colors you used! Those pinks just make the topiaries pop!

    Reply
  212. justasiam says

    February 16, 2018 at 1:07 pm

    Totally gorgeous card and wonderful colour choices!

    Reply
  213. Robin P says

    February 16, 2018 at 2:37 pm

    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.

    Reply
  214. Kristin says

    February 16, 2018 at 2:44 pm

    Love, love, love!

    Reply
  215. Katie says

    February 16, 2018 at 3:00 pm

    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.

    Reply
  216. Barbara Walborn says

    February 16, 2018 at 3:08 pm

    Darling little topiary. Sponging the color in the back really made it stand out.

    Reply
  217. Kris Schleich says

    February 16, 2018 at 3:13 pm

    Thank you for sharing your talent!

    Reply
  218. Debbie B says

    February 16, 2018 at 3:20 pm

    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!

    Reply
  219. Brenda Kuder says

    February 16, 2018 at 3:41 pm

    I love the card. Very pretty. It is a stamp set I would love to own.

    Reply
  220. Beth Merrill says

    February 16, 2018 at 3:57 pm

    I just love your card AND your sense of humor. Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  221. Julia D. says

    February 16, 2018 at 4:19 pm

    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!

    Reply
  222. Jenell says

    February 16, 2018 at 4:27 pm

    The colors you chose for your card are perfect. And so glad you joined the card-making frenzy!

    Reply
  223. cyndi morris says

    February 16, 2018 at 4:29 pm

    Your coloring is absolutely gorgeous. Beautiful card.

    Reply
  224. Annette Gordon says

    February 16, 2018 at 4:39 pm

    WOW! I love that layering stamp! So cool. And the card you made was stunning! Love the pinks.

    Reply
  225. Thersha Lewis says

    February 16, 2018 at 4:55 pm

    Thanks for sharing your beautiful card and the embossing tips.

    Reply
  226. Sherri Ferguson says

    February 16, 2018 at 7:19 pm

    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.

    Reply
  227. Victoria Banaszak says

    February 16, 2018 at 7:54 pm

    I am really liking this stamp set more every time I see it. Your card is so pretty.

    Reply
  228. Jeanne Beam says

    February 16, 2018 at 8:23 pm

    Beautiful card. Love the colors and it’s simplicity. Thanks for sharing…

    Reply
  229. Annalisa says

    February 16, 2018 at 9:13 pm

    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. πŸ˜‰ Thanks for sharing with us!

    Reply
  230. Cindy Ziliak says

    February 16, 2018 at 9:45 pm

    Awesome job! I never look for directions until I have to! Lol

    Reply
  231. Michelle Lupton says

    February 16, 2018 at 11:39 pm

    This blog hop is dangerous – my wish list just keeps getting bigger!

    Reply
  232. Rosalie H says

    February 16, 2018 at 11:44 pm

    So cute! I learned that I need a magic embossing bag. I love to emboss and with that bag I’ll love it more!

    Reply
  233. Paula Haller says

    February 16, 2018 at 11:51 pm

    Oh my! Your pink topiary is beautiful. I love the clean look to this card.

    Reply
  234. Anita Sorensen says

    February 17, 2018 at 12:00 am

    The pink shadow behind the topiary gives it a nice glow.

    Reply
  235. Alice Smith says

    February 17, 2018 at 12:04 am

    Aha! Thanks for the tip of using the embossing buddy. No more messy embossing.

    Reply
  236. Alice Smith says

    February 17, 2018 at 12:08 am

    Aha! Thanks telling me about the embossing buddy. No more messy embossing.

    Reply
  237. Terrie D. says

    February 17, 2018 at 12:51 am

    What a gorgeous card! I just love topiaries! I would say I’m an advanced beginner card maker πŸ™‚ I’ve made pretty simple cards, but I recently got supplies so I can start using embossing powders.

    Reply
  238. treen (katrine leber) says

    February 17, 2018 at 1:12 am

    I love topiaries and you really did them so well! I love the colors that you chose. What a lovely card! hugs, treen

    Reply
  239. Portia says

    February 17, 2018 at 1:54 am

    So so pretty! And simple! Still love simple! Thanks Cathy!

    Reply
  240. Toni C says

    February 17, 2018 at 4:23 am

    So pretty, love the pink ‘halo’.

    Reply
  241. Christy Q says

    February 17, 2018 at 7:26 am

    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. πŸ™‚

    Reply
  242. Joy says

    February 17, 2018 at 8:20 am

    Love this card, so pretty and simple.

    Reply
  243. Patty Eifert says

    February 17, 2018 at 9:26 am

    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!!

    Reply
  244. Sharon in CA says

    February 17, 2018 at 10:16 am

    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!!

    Reply
  245. Milli D says

    February 17, 2018 at 10:33 am

    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! πŸ™‚

    Reply
  246. Nina says

    February 17, 2018 at 11:35 am

    Sweet card!

    Reply
  247. Anushree Vaish says

    February 17, 2018 at 12:06 pm

    So pretty….thanks for sharing

    Reply
  248. Amy D says

    February 17, 2018 at 12:16 pm

    Beautiful color combination! Simple & elegant. Love it!

    Reply
  249. Tina Dorrington says

    February 17, 2018 at 12:17 pm

    Love the colors and the highlight

    Reply
  250. Amy says

    February 17, 2018 at 12:18 pm

    Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  251. Mitzi says

    February 17, 2018 at 1:34 pm

    I like that you used colors other than green for your topiary.

    Reply
  252. Angie Hall says

    February 17, 2018 at 1:48 pm

    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.

    Reply
  253. Anniek says

    February 17, 2018 at 2:22 pm

    So beautiful!

    Reply
  254. Dana M says

    February 17, 2018 at 2:42 pm

    Terrific card! So fun to see the topiary in pink!

    Reply
  255. Lee O. says

    February 17, 2018 at 2:57 pm

    Glad to know I’m not the only one that’s ‘layering challenged’! Thanks for the grin and the inspiration.

    Reply
  256. HenriΓ«tte says

    February 17, 2018 at 3:37 pm

    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.

    Reply
  257. Linda says

    February 17, 2018 at 4:12 pm

    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.

    Reply
  258. Woendi Levitt says

    February 17, 2018 at 5:02 pm

    Love this stamp set-SO MANY possibilities. Your colors are beautiful

    Reply
  259. Tammy L says

    February 17, 2018 at 7:01 pm

    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!

    Reply
  260. scrappyrat says

    February 17, 2018 at 7:12 pm

    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. πŸ™‚

    Reply
  261. F. Andre says

    February 17, 2018 at 9:06 pm

    This Topiary set is fabulous. Love your card.

    Reply
  262. Betty Lim-Silvernail says

    February 17, 2018 at 9:10 pm

    Thank you for showing us your lovely card. I am in between a newbie and seasoned card maker.

    Reply
  263. barbara lassiter says

    February 17, 2018 at 9:15 pm

    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! πŸ™‚

    Reply
  264. Kris in Alaska says

    February 17, 2018 at 11:42 pm

    What a lovely topiary set! You do it proud!

    Reply
  265. Catherine in Colorado says

    February 18, 2018 at 1:13 am

    Love the pinks on the topiary! What fun! The sponging behind is brilliant! Thanks Cathy!

    Reply
  266. Tanja Souter. says

    February 18, 2018 at 5:40 am

    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.

    Reply
  267. Glenda Dopking says

    February 18, 2018 at 8:25 am

    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.

    Reply
  268. Annette Reed says

    February 18, 2018 at 8:26 am

    Very sweet card. The colored background adds to the topiary and really makes it stand out. Thanks.

    Reply
  269. Susan Bennett says

    February 18, 2018 at 8:35 am

    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!!

    Reply
  270. Laura Buehler says

    February 18, 2018 at 9:45 am

    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.

    Reply
  271. Sue McRae says

    February 18, 2018 at 10:52 am

    I am totally smitten with this charming topiary!

    Reply
  272. Gabriella B says

    February 18, 2018 at 10:59 am

    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.

    Reply
  273. Karen L K says

    February 18, 2018 at 12:59 pm

    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.

    Reply
  274. Karen Hale says

    February 18, 2018 at 1:07 pm

    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.

    Reply
  275. Jayell says

    February 18, 2018 at 2:31 pm

    Gorgeous card Cathy, and I love the colours.

    Reply
  276. Marjorie DUMONTIER says

    February 18, 2018 at 3:58 pm

    Oh my !! This is such a fantastic card !!
    [margessw(at)icloud(dot)com]

    Reply
  277. pat smith says

    February 18, 2018 at 4:58 pm

    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.

    Reply
  278. Bonnie Barton says

    February 18, 2018 at 7:46 pm

    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.

    Reply
  279. Helen McGrath says

    February 18, 2018 at 9:11 pm

    simply love, love, love these cards ideas!

    Reply
  280. Karen Page says

    February 18, 2018 at 11:34 pm

    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 πŸ™‚

    Reply
  281. Marie Flayer says

    February 19, 2018 at 7:43 am

    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!
    πŸ™‚ Marie

    Reply
  282. Ann Eslinger says

    February 19, 2018 at 10:44 am

    I never would’ve thought to make a pink topiary, but it’s adorable. Thanks for the idea.

    Reply
  283. Miriam Prantner says

    February 19, 2018 at 12:29 pm

    Love the pink topiary and the inked shadow behind it too!

    Reply
  284. SuzanD. says

    February 19, 2018 at 3:35 pm

    So soft and pretty. Love it.

    Reply
  285. Cathy Lillie says

    February 19, 2018 at 3:43 pm

    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!

    Reply
  286. Judie Attard says

    February 19, 2018 at 5:06 pm

    Absolutely stunning card! I’ve been crafting for as long as I remember, and making cards consistently for a handful of years now!

    Reply
  287. Aisha Roberts says

    February 19, 2018 at 5:48 pm

    This is such a cute card. I’m a newbie cardmaker too so I get were you are coming from lol

    Reply
  288. Jackie Price says

    February 20, 2018 at 12:56 am

    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.

    Reply
  289. Katya says

    February 20, 2018 at 4:02 am

    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. πŸ˜‰

    Reply
  290. kim benjamin says

    February 20, 2018 at 4:06 am

    Hop hop

    Reply
  291. Deepti Aggarwal says

    February 20, 2018 at 5:28 am

    Awww.. such a lovely card..love the soft colors.

    Reply
  292. Berina says

    February 20, 2018 at 1:15 pm

    Such a lovely card!! I love the soft ink blending behind the image.

    Reply
  293. Flo says

    February 20, 2018 at 3:38 pm

    Your card is so pretty, pretty in pink. This stamp set looks so different stamped than it does in the package.

    Reply
  294. Heather DePasquale says

    February 20, 2018 at 10:10 pm

    Love your pink watercolor background to your topiary. So fresh!

    Reply
  295. Kathy McCreary says

    February 20, 2018 at 10:30 pm

    Love your card! I haven’t tried the layered stamps yet. Anxious to try some! Thank you!

    Reply
  296. Margery C says

    February 21, 2018 at 12:34 am

    Pretty in Pink card. Lovely. I’m an intermediate stamper. Always learning from all the fab stampers from all over the world.

    Reply
  297. Carol Celest says

    February 21, 2018 at 8:30 am

    Love these topiary stamps!

    Reply
  298. Mateja P says

    February 21, 2018 at 12:44 pm

    Lovely card πŸ™‚ I’m somewhere in between. I’m making cards for a few years now, but I learn something new everyday πŸ™‚

    Reply
  299. melissa edwards says

    February 21, 2018 at 3:30 pm

    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!!!

    Reply
  300. Janet Trapp says

    February 21, 2018 at 9:18 pm

    Nice card love the pink color!
    God bless!?

    Reply
  301. Stacey Kowbel says

    February 22, 2018 at 12:27 pm

    Love your card! I showcases this stamp set so well – I think it needs to be on my must have list!

    Reply
  302. Cindy C. says

    February 22, 2018 at 1:05 pm

    Oh this is so cute, I love that you went with the non-traditional way and used pink on the topiary!

    Reply
  303. Hannah says

    February 22, 2018 at 2:49 pm

    Simply elegant, so soft and pretty

    Reply
  304. Barbara-Jean says

    February 22, 2018 at 5:10 pm

    Great card, coloring and shading…would never know you’re a newbie!

    Reply
  305. JoAnneR says

    February 22, 2018 at 9:43 pm

    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.

    Reply
  306. Maryvel says

    March 4, 2018 at 5:35 pm

    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.

    Reply
    • Cathy Zielske says

      March 5, 2018 at 8:13 am

      Hello Maryvel!

      Well that makes me feel less like I’m the only one! : )

      Reply

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