Yesterday was our Hamilton Extravaganza, one of my favourite events that we hold three times a year—and what a fabulous day it was! We spent the day sharing creativity, catching up with friends, making new ones, and, of course, creating five beautiful projects. This was the project that Fiona and I taught, featuring the gorgeous new Violet Dreams Suite from this month’s Online Exclusives.

Bundles: Framed Violets Stamp Set + Framed Violets Dies (photopolymer: 168194). Ink: Gorgeous Grape (147099), Basic Black Hybrid (166648). Stampin’ Blends: Highland Heather (154887), Peaceful Pine (167668). Card/Paper: Peaceful Pine (167692), Peaceful Pine Two-Tone (167698), Gorgeous Grape (147011), Basic White (166781), Violet Dreams 12” x 12” Designer Series Paper (168186). Accessories: Fresh Freesia 1/4" Satin Ribbon (167511), Rhinestone Basic Jewels (144220). Tools: Stampin’ Cut & Emboss Machine (149653), Textured Ring 3D Embossing Folder (168220), Paper Trimmer (152392), Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430). Other: Fine-Grit Sandpaper.

Violet Dreams Suite (168200) - $201.50
Includes: Framed Violets Stamp Set + Framed Violets Dies (10%-off), Violet Dreams 12" x 12" Designer Series Paper, Shimmering Stripes 12" x 12" Specialty Designer Series Paper, Fresh Freesia 1/4" Satin Ribbon, and Adhesive-Backed Blooms.

To complement the pretty violets in the suite, we designed a card front that looks like a charming garden gate. The gate is made from Peaceful Pine cardstock with a textured overlay. We embossed the light side of Peaceful Pine Two-Tone Cardstock using the Textured Tree Ring 3D Embossing Folder (another new Online Exclusive), then lightly sanded the raised design to reveal the white cardstock core underneath. It’s such an easy technique that adds wonderful texture and interest.

We then cut the embossed panel into strips to create the gate, and because we used the lighter side of the Two-Tone cardstock, the contrasting greens really bring the design to life.

To finish the card front, we added die-cut violets and leaves in Gorgeous Grape and Peaceful Pine, along with a stamped heartfelt sentiment.

Then comes a little more wow factor…

Open the garden gate to reveal a panel of beautiful Violet Dreams Designer Series Paper!  Layered over the patterned paper is a die-cut oval with a stamped birthday greeting and coloured flowers, using the Framed Violets Bundle.

I’m loving all the different purple tones in this project—Gorgeous Grape for the stamping, Highland Heather Stampin’ Blends for colouring, and that gorgeous flourish of shimmery Fresh Freesia Satin Ribbon!

To complete the card, we also stamped and coloured a few more violets inside.

We had such a wonderful day creating together at the Hamilton Extravaganza, and I’d love for you to join us at a future event. The best way to hear about upcoming events like this one is by subscribing to my weekly emails. I’d love to welcome you along next time!