My Process...

Hi!
Today I want to show you how I layout a new project!
I knew I wanted to make a Valentine's Day card using Large Polka Dots and I just love Echo Park's newest papers for Valentine's Day.  I used their Love Me papers for this card.  They are just too fun!!

Before I start, if I know what I'm using, I usually try to gather it all together so it's all handy.  I have to say, though, lots of times I just kinda change things on the fly, so I don't even end up using what I've gathered!!!

Stamping Large Polka Dots on the cardstock I cut:

ANYTIME I stamp, I clean it off right away! I am a little psychotic about it, but I want to make sure all of my stamps last for as long as possible! I use either stamp cleaner or baby wipes.  I generally save the cleaner for strong, permanent inks, like Staz On.

Then, I stamp on a scratch piece of paper to make sure the stamp is all clean and ready to be put away.  I also check to make sure it's dry before I package it back up.

Here, I've cut the squares I want to use and I'd deciding how to stamp the hearts.

I thought the red on Kraft would really pop.  I ALWAYS 'test' stamp first on stock if I'm not sure it will come out the way I want.  Sometimes the stock is too dark or the ink is too light.

 

And when two-step stamping, I do a test or two first, just to make sure I have everything lined up correctly!  These adorable hearts are from Artsy Heartsy!

I cut out the hearts....

And decided where to place the strip of cardstock I cut:

When I attach twine, I usually hold it in place (at least temporarily) with some tape.  This makes it easier for me to tie the twine or staple it in place.

Here is the finished card - fun, huh?