Punky Tangles

What I like about the stamps in the fragment series is that they work really well alone or with many other Chocolate Baroque designs. So my contribution to this month's DT blog uses both of our new stamp sets, Harlequin Fragment and Tangled Fragments, combined with Punky Flowers.

1. The background is created on a piece of smooth white cardstock measuring approx 8.5" x 3.75" (21cm x 9.2cm), using the acrylic block technique* with Distress Inks  in Picked Raspberry, Spiced Marmalade, Peeled Paint and Peacock Feathers. Set aside to dry thoroughly.
2. Using the solid circles image from Harlequin Fragments 'ink' up the stamp with either white acrylic paint, or gesso, and then stamp repeatedly (and randomly) over the inked background. You don't necessarily need to add more paint between stamping, that way you get more of a faded look, but this is down to personal taste. Again allow to dry thoroughly.
3. Using the same combination of Distress inks create another acrylic block background, this time on white paper;160gsm is good for this as it has a bit of body and dries well. Make sure you create a decent sized green/blue area ( this will be used to make the flower stalk).
4. Once dry use Memento Tuxedo Black to stamp the largest flower image and one of the smaller ones from Punky flowers onto the coloured paper background and cut out. Cut between the petals of the small flower and shape to give the effect of movement and depth.
5. Again, using Tuxedo Black, stamp the stalk-like image from Tangled Fragments onto the green/blue area of your coloured paper. Decide which part you want to use for a stalk and cut out.
6. Attach the stalk loosely to the card only applying adhesive here and there. Randomly turn up a few of the 'leaves'. Attach the flowers using 3D foam pads.
7. Finally stamp the word 'Beauty', from Artistic Expressions, as illustrated.

* The acrylic block technique was used by Glenda in her Monday Mojo Magic series which is currently being re-run with new artwork for 2014. If you want to sign up for the remainder of the series please click here

I hope this has given you the inspiration to try this technique and don't forget to keep coming back to the blog to see lots more creative designs from my fellow teamies.