I really enjoyed making this set as a gift for my sister-in-law, Cleo. I have to admit that covering journals could become a little addictive. I just love the "Looks Like Spring" stamp set. It's so versatile with a variety of floral images and mini backgrounds too and the co-ordinating flower punch that is available as well makes it all the easier to use.
I started by covering a Stampin' Up! 5x5 On Board Journal (Available in the Summer Mini Catalogue) with some patterned paper from the Spring Flowers collection using a glue stick. I then used a sanding block to rub the edges of the paper back and expose a fraction of the board underneath, with a Stampin' Sponge I inked around the edges of the journal with Chocolate Chip Ink. To help make the sentiment stand out, I embossed it using Whisper White Craft Ink and white embossing powder. Then a piece of light pink grosgrain ribbon has been poked through one of the spiral binding holes and tied around the cover, I used Mini Glue Dots to secure the ribbon for a super hold.
Next is the stamped embellishment, I have used Pretty in Pink And Very Vanilla cardstock. On to the vanilla I have stamped the solid diamond pattern in So Saffron ink, I then layered the dotted diamonds with Perfect Plum Ink using my Stamp-a-ma-jig stamp positioner, giving me an argyle patterned background. I then stamped on a couple of flowers. This is the point where I scrunched up both pieces of card and ironed them flat-ish again with my hands. I roughed up the edges with the blade of my scissors to add to the weathered effect . I stamped more flowers in Pretty In Pink and Perfect Plum, I cut out the large one and punched the smaller ones, I also stamped and cut out the "friends" sentiment block in Certainly Celery and roughed the edges once again. Knowing that a journal is something to be used on a regular basis I wanted to strengthen the petals on the large flower so the wouldn't be quite so bendable. I have done this with a great deal of satisfaction (and fun) with Crystal Effects. Everything was stuck in place using SNAIL Adhesive.
I duplicated the whole process onto Chocolate Chip cardstock for the greeting card. I then made some page dividers for the journal, once again using Very Vanilla and Pretty In Pink cardstock. I used the Tab punch to create the tabs and secured them with gold eyelets. I then used the spiral punch to make a perforated edge that will fit on to the journal spine where ever they are needed. Both of these punches are available in the Summer Mini Catalogue.
If you'd like to win a copy of this card just leave a comment for this post, Billy will draw a name on the 14th of Feb and I'll announce the winner on the 15th. If you'd like any information on this project or any of the products I have used please feel free to contact me: mel@inkypinkiesstamping.com
Warmest wishes for your day.
Melanie Packham
