A site for my handmade cards, accompanied by my photos and written meanderings which are occasionally witty, often tongue-in-cheek, and rarely profound. Beginning in June 2013, you'll also see lots of NBUS, which is an acronym I coined for Never-Before-Used-Schtuff. Note: my Privacy Policy can be found at a tab below and you can find my NBUS Challenge online. I hope you'll join in the fun there! Thanks for coming by! Have a beverage and enjoy!

June 9, 2015

Retro Rubber GD & More Roses and Butterflies

Good day to you!

I'm as delighted as a bird in a fully-laden cherry tree to be appearing today as Guest Designer for the fun Retro Rubber Challenge! Retro Rubber Challenges just started last November, so they might be new to you. It's a challenge with an aim towards helping us use our (often neglected) stamps that are over a year old

Now, if you're like me, you can use your NBUS (never-before-used) stamps and still play in the Retro challenges because time flies and, oops, there's that stamp you bought two years ago and never used. You get the idea. Stop committing stamp neglect. Dust that puppy off and use it!

The current Retro Rubber Challenge runs from today through June 19, so you have lots of time to play along. The theme is "Tie It On."

Here is my card:
The beautiful embossed paper is by K and Company, the square tag was stitched with a Lil' Inker die, the sediment (embossed with a coppery rose) is v.o. from Hero Arts (C2553), and the ribbon is from the dollar bin. 

One of my many goals lately is to turn more of my neglected retro designer papers into cards. Sometimes the patterns are so gorgeous that I can't bear to have just a tiny bit of them show around the edges. This rosy glittery paper is one of those papers that begged to be the star of the card.
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I hope you will check out the Retro Rubber Challenge and join in the fun! You will find an "About Our Challenges" button on their side bar for all the fine print. Just use a stamp (new or used) that's at least a year old and adorn your card in some way with ribbon or twine. EZPZ!!
Also:
Please feel free to copy to your sidebar
~~~

My twofer card for today:
In my last post I used the beautiful Altenew "Painted Flowers" and now you can see that I also purchased the "Painted Butterflies." They were on my desk, so I broke them out, too. And I again used the Memory Box cross-stitch die. I used a pale pattern of patterned paper for the base and black for my mat. The beautiful NBUS sediment is from Your Next Stamp.

Are you cocking your head and going "hmmm?"

What you are seeing is a butterfly called "Cymothoe sangaris" or "Cymothoe Excelsia." The common name is "red glider" or "scalloped red glider." The natural habitat is Africa. How it managed to fly onto my paper is like this:

I stamped the butterfly in two shades of light rose and dark rose along with the black ink outline like the designer intended. Then I decided to use my pink Wink of Stella, which is more of a dark rose than a pink. You could even say it's more a red color when you accidentally reach for the red instead of the pink. 

Painting over ink with Wink of Stella will sometimes blend your inks and make the demarcations less noticeable, so you have to be careful about that. Once I was done, I ended up with a very pretty red butterfly with very slight highlighting. Not my intention, but Hammy said to roll with it. Easy for him to say given that he rolls around for a living. 

As long as I had a red butterfly, I figured I might as well plump it up like shiny lipsticked lips so a liberal amount of gloss was applied.

~~~

Challenges
Grab My Button.
~~~

Sequins

Can we just vent talk for a minute about sequins, which I endearingly call "sequints" because they make my eyes go all squinty when I use them? Does anyone have a magic formula for where to put the bast sweet things? Not how to adhere them, but where to put them.

I sorta know about the "rule of three" and "in the shape of a triangle" and most times I follow it, but sometimes I'm a rebel and I don't. I'm convinced that when I see one of you has put seven or thirteen sequints on your card, it's because you gave up and just stuck them all over the place. Not that I've ever done that. No.

Whether I put one, two, or three on my card, I find it a difficult task. I can quite literally spend ten minutes making a card and 23 minutes squinting and fiddling and trying out various places to put sequints and dots on my card! Ridiculous. Someone should design one of those template thingies out of hard acetate that you can lay over your card. You know? So that it would show you, "If your main focus pocus is here that your sequints should go here, here, and here." Wouldn't that be awesome?! 

Oh, AND ninety-five times out of ten, even if I use a booger stick or tweezers, they fly up and stick to my ginfers! Oof, get OFF me! They're always somewhere in my clothes because I end up doing the "mosquito dance" shaking my arms and flapping my digits. If that doesn't work, then I do the underarm meet-and-greet whereby I slide my right hand under my left arm and my left hand under my right arm and try to bedazzle my bazooms.

Sigh.

Thank you. I needed that. 

~~~

Enjoy your day! No, seriously, enjoy! LITS!*

As always, thank you for coming to visit the Playhouse and special thanks to you if you take the time to join as a follower! Please let me know you came by, so I can be sure and return the flavor!

I hope to see you play in the Retro Rubber Challenge!
*Life is too short!

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105 comments:

Tanja said...

the rose is so pretty and the painted butterfly is just so very beautiful

Lynn said...

Oh goodness. Jaw is dropped over here Darnell. In love with the deep, rich colors on both of your cards. The shimmer on the rose is amazing...and the butterfly. CAS loving heart over here is in heaven!

Unknown said...

I'm in danger of falling off my chair! That piece about the sequins! *roars with laughter* that's exactly like me! I bought a ton of sequins a while back, put them in a nice box, with brads and eyelets, and booooy are they all untouched! I try using them, cocking my head back and forth never finding a good place for them.. And usually I tip the whole box over too in the process.. Then dog walks all over them.. I would love to use them more, but it's such a painful process!
Anyway, my rant over! Love those cards - the subtleness of the flutterby is gorgeous, it's such a nice intense tone - striking on the white base!

Ustvarjalni utrinki Tamara P. said...

Awesome
have a lovely day
hugs Tamara

Julie B said...

Fab cards but I can't get the picture of you dancing around like a ballroom dancer with all the sequins!
Not sure I can help you with the positioning but I always try to keep them from being in a straight line and go for triangles if poss.
Love the DP you used in the first. I have drawers of the stuff which I bought 'cos I loved it and now can't bear to cut into!!! I have been using up my bits in the odds n ends box though.
By the by, did you get your little dew drops? My local craft shop had some £1 bags of the things last week. xx

Kylie said...

That rose is stunning. So glittery and pretty! Your sequins on your butterfly are perfect in my opinion. When I use sequins, I use my Quick stick tool to dip them into Glossy accents that I have squirted onto a craft mat. Sometimes I will use tweezers to help plop them into the right spot and get them off the stick too. Thanks for linking up that gorgeous butterfly at ATCAS xx

Bananastamper said...

K, so I had to cease drinking my coffee by the time I reached the bit about the sequins, least I spit it all over my keyboard! (which would cause an awkward conversation with the hubs..."My computer isn't working right, I have NO idea what happened. And no ideas what that sticky substance is thas smells like coffee.")
I too struggle with placement of sequins and the like. I do almost always follow the "rule of threes," I am the daughter of a florist after all. I was taught that one at a young age! Having said that, exactly where to place them is another story. Most times, I pick them up and sorta drop them on the card - if I am happy, I glue 'em down. if not, I pick 'em up and drop 'em again, repeat until happy, lol. It ain't pretty, but it's the truth. Random placement achieved!
Anyhoo, I love your stitched tag one the first card and I concur - it is not fair to cover up gorgeous patterned paper! The second card, WOW - the red & glossy butterfly is just utterly fabulous and that stitched die is the perfect backdrop!
So, now that I've written you a novel, I will return to my coffee sipping and avoid any further posts re: sequin placement, lol!
Happy Tuesday!
Shanna :)

Jeanne said...

You are truly delightful, Darnell and so are your cards! I adore that you are using up your stash so beautifully. That paper on the first card is gorgeous and the butterfly on the second is stunning! I giggled like mad over your most accurate description of trying to place and use sequins. Rule of three or odd numbers gal here. I actually use a tweezers to dip in some glue and place on the card (courtesy of the queen of all cardmaking Jennifer McGuire). Hope you have a fantastic day and don't go bedazzling your bazoombas! :)

Hussena said...

Both your cards are so beautiful Darnell..But I have to say I definitely have a soft spot for the second one ..Its something about the Altenew stamps that are so in trend now:) ..Plus your happy accident with Wink of stella has managed to created this beauty ..I love it !!

stampwithsandy said...

Oh Darnell, not one but two stunning creations! The glittery paper on your first card is just fabulous and you showcased it so well. I am so jelly that you have that gorgeous butterfly stamp set that is on my wish list, and your card pure CAS beauty. BTW the second card is perfect for the challenge at CAS(E) this sketch :)

Sarah said...

OOps, my coffee nearly came back down my nose then!! You do make me laugh and always say what just about every one of us can relate to!! Love your cards. Like Jules, I have stacks of paper that I just look at, so your beautiful shimmery rose paper has inspired me to actually use some!! Perfect positioning of the sequints on the second, just the right touch xx

designbydonna said...

Your cards are GORGEOUS!!! Sometimes we get the bestest by mistake. I love the red butterfly. And your red glittery roses paper is really eye catching. I am right there with you on the sequin deal. After I pick up the whole bunch that bounces right out of that box onto my desk when opened, I usually do odd numbers. I don't think placement matters. I often do the drop and go with it placement.

Cornelia (fun stamping) said...

Two awesome cards - especially that second one - deliciously CAS! Congrats on your GDT stint - I'll try to play. I like that challenge! I have too many old stamps.....

Alanna said...

You make me smile Darnell. I love the first card with that bold paper. It is so beautiful. Great job on using up some of your stash. And your painted butterfly card is gorgeous.

As for the sequins, they can be a bit fiddly, no? I'm afraid I don't have any really great tips. I see people use their quick sticks to adhere them so effortlessly but that doesn't seem to really work for me.

Marybeth said...

See,if I come here first thing in the morning you give me my first laugh of the day! I have a visual of you shaking off the sequins! Both cards are beautiful ......but that buterfly card is absoultly amazing...and your photo catching the shimmer! Wow!

I Card Everyone said...

Oh the sequins... I finally figured that out, D... just put them in pretty little jars - those that don't get used for hummingbird feeders are the above mentioned - set in threes on your desk and say "look what I just did!" No matt medium required. Adore those that others use with professional results. Like your cards today... very well done, my friend... congrats on your GDT gig!
=] Michele

Vicki Dutcher said...

That is some amazing paper -- made for a wonderful card . Your bfly ROCKS -all red and shined up [thanks for joining in at ATCAS] - congrats on the GD gig too - I hope to play in that one. Great excuse to use my [so old its scary] stamps. :)

Megan said...

Oh dear. I think we all relate to the sequin dilemma. I usually have an easy choice for placement of sequins (enamel dots, etc.) because I am a messy stamper. I typically end up placing my sequins over the ink smudges :). Yesterday I had a wink of Stella explosion, and had to cover up the glitter puddle with a sequin. Unfortunately, it also exploded on my pants, and I could not just cover THAT glitter with a sequin. had to throw them in the washer or face going grocery shopping with a glittery crotch region :-/

Debbie Mageed said...

Hey, Darnell! Congrats for being the guest designer at Retro Rubber!! Your cards are beautiful! The rose is incredible and I so agree that not only should we be playing more with our old stamps but neglected collection of designer paper! Hope you will play with Retro Rubber again soon!

Sharon Underwood said...

Your cards are so pretty! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that glossy, glittery red butterfly! In fact, I believe I need that stamp! You've outdone yourself. As far as sequins go, I totally understand. You need this tool that's like a pick with a sticky end and a pick end. It helps you pick up sequins with the sticky side, and the pick end comes off so you can use it to get the sequins off the sticky part. Clear as mud? Look for it -- you'll find some relief, I promise!

Sharon Underwood said...

I think that tool is called a Quick Stick.

Carole said...

Images of...doing the shake...don't vac.... to get the sequins back! made me smile.I love your cards...that rose is beautiful and a super way to use paper and showcase it. As for the butterfly...well is there anyone who doesn't love a butterfly and your red one is fabulous with all its sparkle. As for the sequin placement...it is known that one has to spend hours to make something look like you just threw it on!.....longer than making the actual card!

Neha said...

Love both your cards. Even i feel same way about pattern papers. You have used it so well. I must try this.

Sue said...

Fab cards. Congrats on being guest designer.

Hope you have had a good day. Sue

Anonymous said...

I asked the same question on my blog a few weeks ago...sequins...some people said to try dryer sheets...or the static spray...all I know is they drive me batty!! I've tried the quick stick tool and doesn't seem to work for me ....Beautiful cards Darnell!!!!

Marisa said...

Lovely duo of cards. Gorgeous flower and I simply ADORE that butterfly - may have to get it! Gorgeous in all its red glory. Had to giggle at the sequin story - I'm not a huge fan and when I do use them I go with rule of three in a triangle but am no expert. Try tweezers for picking them up - much easier than the fingers ;)

Hazel said...

Thank you, Darnell, for your lovely comment on my Patterned Paper June challenge and for sharing your beautiful crafting - hope to see you again soon.xx

Jacee said...

So lovely Darnell, fabulous cards
hugs Jacee
Simply Paper Card Design

Verna Angerhofer said...

What a beautiful rose that you created so bright and sparkly. And, I adore the butterfly one as well. Both are awesome!

Sue said...

Two gorgeous cards, Darnell! Your roses are beautiful with the large tag, looks fab. Beautiful butterfly too x

HJ said...

Both cards are beautiful, but the best part of your post today is your rant...er talk about sequins! I laughed out loud until my husband asked me what was so funny. I think most of us have trouble placing sequins, but never pose the question because we assume we are the only one having the problem. If you create the template for proper placement, please let me know. Have a great day!!

pinky said...

Two stunning cards Darnell! I am no help for you with the sequins. I have never used them for a card, imagine that lol.

conil said...

Look at you, cutting into that gorgeous patterned paper. You are a valiant soul...you use it for lovely cards. I apparently have bought beautiful PP just to have it around and look at it. Think I'll try to tear a page out of your book and see what occurs. Sequins...also lovely to look at but a royal pain to place adhere. When I'm brave enough to break mine out, it's like velcro, lint and hair...everything sticks where it's not supposed to be. If I figure out where to place them, they stick to whatever tool I'm using rather than the card. Went to the grocery store once with 3 on my butt. A very sweet clerk pointed them out to me after I'd spent 45 minutes shopping. So, I feel your pain.

Jean said...

Great use of the beautiful designer paper on the first card, you are right it should take center stage. The gorgeous shiny red butterfly card is simply stunning as well.
Jean x

BożenA said...

Wow! True CAS so little, and how speaks! White, red and black - the perfect choice of colors. I love depths of red and layering the card. Darnell, now never let you catch up in creating beautiful cards. Thank you for the inspiration.
Regards,
Bozena

oldpunca said...

Love your retro rose, dear Darnell. The die with stitches on the second card I have already admire in your last post and I'm admiring it again. :-) Is so nice and so simple that does not need a lot of decoration. Your butterfly is perfect! :-))
Hugs, Sonja

Carole Z said...

Two beautiful cards Darnell, especially love the butterfly, hugs Carole Z xx

Carole Z said...

Two beautiful cards Darnell, especially love the butterfly, hugs Carole Z xx

Susan said...

One of your best posts ever, as I can relate to so much of it! One of my goals for this year is to make one card a week that uses dp and ribbon - my stash really needs to be used! Can't say I've stuck to the goal but I'm trying. So I love the card you made with that gorgeous dp and ribbon! And I totally relate to your rant about where to place sequins - I can spend ages moving them around and they never look right! Same thing with gemstones scattered randomly, though I use the self adhesive ones so it's harder to move them around while pondering their placement! You got your sequins just right on the butterfly card, especially the two on either side of the sentiment.

Jenelle said...

Oh WOW, Darnell!! Your first card is gorgeous! I LOVE it! Your second card is pretty as well. I can't resist a fab butterfly :) Now about sequins haha In one of my recent blog posts I also commented about where to put them. I call myself sequin placement challenged :/ but I love using them!

Mrs A. said...

Thankyou too Darnell. I so needed that!! Persconelly I puts me sequins in a bag inside a bag and then seals it up tight as tight can be. Those fings gets every where. My rule is 3 or 5 unless of corse the bag inside the bag does the splits and they all a jail break then who actuactlly cares. Not me, too busy remembering not to sneeze !! Anyways your card is exquitc . Love the the colours and the simples of the design.

Ps. Did u no that if you rub hammy on our jumper sleeve his fur will all go staticky and then its a piece of cake picking up them dere sequins? Just saying like!
Thankyou or puttering by . Hugs Mrs A.

Kathyk said...

Lovely makes, Darnell ... love that twinkle on your first make

Happy Tuesday

Kathyk

Redanne said...

The papers on your first card are beautiful indeed and you have displayed them wonderfully! However, the second card has stolen my heart, it is absolutely stunning - red and a butterfly - perfection. The sequints look fabulous too. YOU should design a sequin placer thingy and market it - I reckon there are lots of people who struggle with them who would love to buy one!

I will catch up on the post with your sisters in soon, I promise! Hugs, Annie xx

Pat said...

Both your cards are really beautiful Darnell and that gorgeous paper on the first and that sensational red glossy butterfly on the second are both the bees knees - well who says bees don't have knees ..lol. I think those three sequins are placed perfectly and they also frame that sentiment prettily too! x

Birgit said...

The cards are so pretty-I love the red poppy and the embossing. It is a great layout also. The 2nd card-that butterfly just pops!! Love it so much. I have to find wink of stella. As for sequins-you made me laugh. I once had one just where a stripper would place one and i was walking outside when a friend of mine..um...pointed it out:)

Shelly said...

Two BEAUTIFUL cards, Darnell! And oh those sequins!...lol...I usually have no problem with them. Though, I had a few packs that gave me such a headache and frustrating time on just trying to get them out, that I actually decided 'heck with it' and threw the rest away! lol Sometimes I know right where to put them and other times I don't. When I don't, I tend to just let them drop from my fingers right onto my card and see where they land. If I like where they've landed, I go with it. If not, I try again or sometimes do without them. ;)

Bonnie said...

Pretty paper and a great tag. But that red butterfly has to take top prize! It takes my breath away (in a good way) and your sequin placement looks perfect to me. I have the same problem placing sequins. I usually give up and try to find them all and put them back in the container. Sometimes I step on them. Then they usually are only fit for the trash can. They're as hard to control as glitter!

Unknown said...

Once again, fantastic cards and hilarious words. Reading your blog always puts a smile on my face.
One question for you- Have you ever gone back and looked at cards BS (before sequins)? Are those cards any less wonderful because they don't have the little sparkly devils? Probably not. Give yourself permission not to use them. Join Sequins Anonymous! :) OR be the person that figures out the perfect placement guides and make your millions!!!
Lu C

Lizzy Hill said...

Last first. I don't. I gather an unknown quantity in my hand. Then simply sprinkle - let them fall, TRULY, it works best of all. [rhyme.Sorry]...some don't even fall ON the project. Obv, I don't stick them down there.....but it works, it really does. BE FREE like your butterfly [which is beautiful!!].....love the sparkly flower one, too.....and you used ribbon. I so wish I could use more ribbon!!!

Susanne Vargas said...

You know, Darnell, I enjoy your stories that go with your cards as much as I enjoy the cards! I thought you had embossed that gorgeous flower on your first card! So glad, it got a special place to shine! And the butterfly on the second is so pretty how it shimmers and shines!

Pam said...

You crack me up! Always what I need to read at the end of the day. :) Love your cards, but I have to say I ADORE the butterfly. Hard to believe that red WOS is actually red when you wanted pink. Thanks, Darnell. I need a dose of you every day. Hugs!

Lisa Elton said...

Oh my friend, your stories and your play on words always brings a huge smile to my face!! By the way, so do your fabulous cards...these included!! The big sparkly flower and the gorgoeus red butterfly, scrumptious I tell ya!! I pick my sequins up with tweezers and either dip them in a bit of adhesive or put a small dot of adhesive on the card. I don't think I follow any particular rules for placement. I sort of make a triangle, but not a perfect one!!

Joyce said...

Congrats on your GD at Retro Rubber. I have only recently found that challenge myself, and have been playing along whenever I can because I do just love the encouragement to pull out my old favorites. And, I think of it as the opposite of your NBUS challenge, until just now when you proved me wrong--that something can be NBUS and Retro at the same time (and shame on me for having lots of that too). Your cards today are just beautiful, and I really love that you are highlighting your older patterned papers, too. I should do that as well--thanks for the inspiration.

Anonymous said...

Your colours are gorgeous in these cards, Darnell and the simple layout of your butterfly is so very elegant.

Kim Heggins said...

Two fabulous cards Darnell...love all the beautiful red. Congrats on your guest spot at Retro Rubber, will have to play along with you! And your sequin situation is about as funny as can be. I sent you a couple of photos to your facebook page. Always love reading your blog and today is a good one!

Jane Knudsen said...

Darnell - you are killing me! Hurry up and invent that sequin placer thingy as I struggle with those little buggers too!

Thank you for joining us as guest designer! Such a beautiful card that you are so spot on about the paper - why cover it up! Love this card!

I am so glad you found us and played along in the first place! Retro Rubber appreciates YOU!

Loly Borda said...

Oh my! You made me laugh with your sequins dilemma! Thank you so much for sharing not only your awesome creations but your wit and humor as well.Big hugs!

Barb Ghig said...

Congrats on your well deserved Guest DT spot, Darnell! Your bloom is absolutely gorgeous! I love all the sparkle, too! I also really love your butterfly...WOW! So striking in red, and your stitched mat really makes this card shine! Thanks so much for playing along with us this week at Addicted to CAS! We always enjoy seeing your beautiful cards in the gallery ~ Hugs, Barb

sandie said...

Got to giggle about the sequins as you know I love my enamel dots and often a card I can make takes ages then I fiddle around with the dots until they look pleading to my eye, it is crazy but they have to look just right to me! I do love how you used the DSP and think I must try this. The butterfly is the most gorgeous red. I am loving the Altnew stuff but am trying so hard not to buy it x

Carole Pollard said...

Brilliant cards love them both think I might have that K&co paper so a brilliant idea if I have. Now I just need to find it!! Love that butterfly so pretty and wonderful colouring. Loved your squints post really made me smile enjoy the rest of your week Love and hugs Carole x

kiwimeskreations said...

Stunning butterfly Darnell, and those sequints are perfectly placed!! My main problem with those sweeeet things is finding the right number the same - as we have no supply stores near us, I buy assorted packets in the local "cheap shop", and then sort through them as needed..... argh!!!
Blessings
Maxine

kiwimeskreations said...

Stunning butterfly Darnell, and those sequints are perfectly placed!! My main problem with those sweeeet things is finding the right number the same - as we have no supply stores near us, I buy assorted packets in the local "cheap shop", and then sort through them as needed..... argh!!!
Blessings
Maxine

Mary Anne / MA54K said...

So happy to see that you stopped around. I have been slacking on the blog front. I scrolled back and see you have been creating so many lovely card! I see a butterfly theme taking hold here. I can not wait until they return to my yard! Hope to get some posting done soon. Hugs!

Anonymous said...

Two beautiful cards.
When you design that mat thingy for the sequins be sure to post it on your blog :)

Unknown said...

Two beautiful cards Dippy - not surprised you didn't want to hide that beautiful paper but give it its own stage. Love the butterfly - looks just like it's flying away; beautiful colour. As for sequins well I just tend to go with the flow..........normally with three's, so there may well be three groups of three, just depends on white space on the card normally; but I have been known to drop some from a great height and see what happens!!!

Hugs.

Karendipity xxx

Ros Crawford said...

Beautiful cards!! I sure have a lot of unused papers too!! Love that butterfly ... I just know I'm going to cave in and buy those Altenew stamps ... you are so emptying me!

Em Louise Fairley said...

Two absolutely stunning cards! No surprise there because you're one of the most amazingly talented ladies I know! No surprise either that your sequints vent had me near snorting with laughter. I've used them on a card for the first time in YEARS for Butterfly challenge that will be posted to my blog next Monday and yep, same problems here! LOL x

TK said...

Well I truly believe you are truly talented, and your placement of sequins is just perfect! I can truly relate to the drama/story of sequins though :o) Each of your cards is truly wonderful, mistake or not, they are gorgeous!

Brenda said...

I just love it when beautiful paper does the work for you on a card Auntie! And this paper is stunning and does the work quiet well! Your sentiment tag is perfect for the card. Now about this butterfly...OMGosh I love it! What a happy mistake that turn this butterfly into a stunner! And the sequins, oh the sequins, lol, give me the same fit as they do you. I never know where to place the little burgers nor do I know how many to use. They stick to me and for the life of me I can't get them off my fingers. I love them and I love to hate them as well. lol When you find out where in the heck we are supposed to place, please make sure to let us know too!!! lol Hugs, Brenda

walchowDesign said...

Two beautiful cards especially the one with the red luscious butterfly!

AJ Bodine said...

I am loving the liberal amounts of gloss and mistaken shades of stella, wowza that's a stunning butterfly!!! I laughed so hard when I read your comment on my blog today, I had to run over and see what you were up to..I see that it's all good! btw, the cross stitch die is on my wish list, so thank you for your enabling!

My secret to sequin placement is this. I grab a few and let them drop on my paper..then with a little poker, I push them around a bit..and they just go where they are supposed to, so I then add a bit of glue and commit to it!

Sue said...

Two fabulous cards Darnell ! really beautiful huggles Sue xx

Linda said...

Two beautiful cards ..... love the rose paper but I have to say that butterfly is stunning!!! I love the bright colour .... so pretty!
As for sequins .. I'm right there with you on that one! Never know where to put them or how many to use, so I usually end up putting them back in their box .... if I can find them that is!! Big hugs .... Linda xx

Jean said...

Simply stunning cards!

Carol said...

Your sequints saga did make me laugh Darnell! I just go odds and hope for the best! Love your cards, both gorgeous designs. Carol x

Nora Noll said...

You are so hilarious!! I have sequins all over my floor and they stick to my socks, which I then trail to the rest of my house. The dog often has a sequin on him from my craft room. I am often a rule of three person with my sequins but I also do the "random" technique too. I sprinkle them out of my hand, let them land and then adhere them down-I do not let myself fiddle around!! I also cannot use tweezers but my fingers because I tend to drop the sequins if I use the tweezers.

Your cards are so beautiful!! I love that you used a piece of embossed paper for that central image on the first card. I need to look through my paper and see what I have now. I never thought to use it like this!! As for your second card-GORGEOUS!! At first I thought you watercolored it-the red popping out. Then I read what you wrote about it. WOW!! I do not have these stamps but might have to buy them now!!! Really fabulous design!!

alexandra s.m. said...

They're both beautiful Darnell but the second one steals my heart ;)
Many Thanks!

Taunya Butler said...

You are ALWAYS good for a case of the giggles - and I swear you are the funniest blogger I know!! Love how you make me swoon at your cards and then laugh til my side hurts over something you said!! Gorgeous cards - did I mention that I swooned!! You just did a marvelous job with both of these cards in adding just the right amount of glimmer and sparkle to showcase your amazing focal points!! Awesomely done and I am just so thrilled to have the pleasure of visiting you!! ENJOY!!!

MaryH said...

Oh what a fun visit tonight, to enjoy the 2 lovely cards. Doncha just love those Xstitched dies? Really hits the mark on this pretty card too. Love the way you've used that splashy gorgeous dp on #1. I have a time with this myself. You did great, turned out a stunner. And #2 - equally beautiful. Laughed about the pink WoS...it looks red to me too! And I'm ROFL at the sequin story. I NEVER know where to put the dang thangs. Yours looked super though, just where you placed 'em. Again - love that Xstitching. Big Hugs & TFS (and best to Hammy )

Di said...

This is too funny Darnell! There is a mathematical equation for sequin placement. First find the centre of your image. Then mark light pencil marks at 45, 78 and 123 degrees ensuring that each is slightly further in or out from the centre of the image. Then watch the donkeys ears grow as you realise I just made this rubbish up :-)

Love your cards, especially that amazing butterfly!

Hugs

Di xx

Colleen said...

Darnell, if I were ever to meet up with you in person I am going to need depends in my bag!! You are a HOOT!! I love your butterfly...hmmm, I noticed you saw mine, two great minds think alike, but I think your is first in line for the great part!! I will have to try that wink on one of mine and go for the red butterfly too. Both cards are stunning!! Hugs!!

Stamps and Paper said...

Two delightful cards Darnell love your beautiful Rose and your gorgeous butterfly

Anne

Claire Grantham said...

Yay! So glad to have you with us at Retro Rubber my friend. I love your card and now I am going to have to rethink my paper strategy, as you are so right the papers should be a focus now and then. Cx

Cat Craig said...

You need to remind your readers, dear lady, to make their bathroom visits before reading your blog, especially those of us of a certain age. I about lost control reading your sequins saga.

Love that paper, and the card is fab! I too love your second card, so clean and pretty. Lovely stop today Darnell!

Shawna said...

I haven't stopped by in awhile and just wanted to say HI! then I see before the most beautiful card EVER! Oh I really hope I am not against that beautifulness on any challenges! I don't even stand a chance!! What wonderful cards Darnell! The butterfly with the stitched border is to die for!! WOW! Also the flower with that amazing background is just, just, just well... ASTOUNDING!! The little bit of sparkle is just divine.. And BTW you can send that card right on over here please. Oh wishful thinking... Anyway, love them all and take care.

Anita in France said...

Congratulations on your GD spot, Darnell! Your stunning, shimmery butterfly looks as though she should be going to a ball, dressed in all her finery ... with a corsage just like your gorgeous glittery rose ... both cards are beautifully blissful! Sequins ... I use a multiple of five ... so if it takes an hour for me to make a card, it takes five hours to decide where to put the sequins! Do hope that helps!!! Hugs & Bisous, Anita :)

Janeen said...

OMG I laughed so hard at this post. It surely tickled my funny bone. So I love your red flutter by and I have never heard of retro rubber and am glad they heard of you so you could share with us. Going to check them out as I have LOTS of neglects that I am in process of using. My count is now close to 500

Unknown said...

That paper is lovely. I can see why you wanted to have it as the focal for your card. And I really like how you wrapped the ribbon around the card. Very pretty.

And your butterfly came out amazing. I really like how you added glossy accents. And your sequints look great. I too have trouble deciding where to put the suckers.

Cheryl W. said...

Hmmmm...the image of you bedazzling your bazooms completely stole the show from your gorgeous cards. I guess I need to read through your post again and stop before the bedazzling begins so that I can focus on red roses and rosy butterflies.

Greta said...

Big congrats on GD! I keep meaning to enter TRC & you've inspired me, Darnell! Totally love the painted butterfly & flowers--need those stamps!

shirley-bee said...

Oh, my! I could play in that Retro Rubber challenge all year and not make a dent in my oldies but goodies! I need to get on and do it! Your GD card is beautiful - I too have an aversion to cutting up beautiful papers, I just look at them and stroke them :). Your butterfly is jawdroppingly sensational! I love the shiny red wings. As for sequints, I place them in an obtuse triangle design (it would have to be, wouldn't it?) with 2 close together, and the third on the opposite side of the image.

Bobby said...

Thanks for introducing us to a new challenge, Darnell. I think I can find a few neglected stamps. ;) I love your glittery rose paper and the sentiment is perfect for it. I think that African butterfly would be pleased at your recreation of it on your card. As for sequins, I don't use them often but I just look for a bare space that looks like it needs something and then place a few more in a triangular formation.

Nancy Penir said...

Just saw your gorgeous tied and flowered card with the sweet tag for the TYI Challenge and had to pop by and give you a 'WOW!' That's an embossed paper??? Beautiful use of what's already handy! 2nd card is typical Darnell Hammy brilliance. Love the happy accidents that just 'happen' to be art-worthy!

ionabunny said...

Visions of bedazzeled bazooms?!!¤%#! Off to check out the comments above cos I never know where to put em either. Love your red glossy butterfly. Hugz

Hettie said...

Thank you so much for the laugh Mrs!!! I would just love to see you do the mosquito dance and bedazzle your boobs!! Just as well it is only me and Dobby here as I am giggling like mad!!
Your cards are lovely too.
Hugs
xx

Shona Chambers said...

I've been having a few problems lately leaving comments for people, the internet keeps crashing when I enter my comments, very frustrating! So hopefully this one makes it thru.... I just love your red butterfly and the pale background paper is gorgeous. I know what you mean about WOS causing ink to blend and move around....learned this one the hard way.... And wow, that embossed paper is stunning, no wonder you were saving that one! Sequins, so fabulous but oh so fiddly and sticky. I bought a Quick Stick thing that has the sticky stuff at one end to pick them up and place them where you put your glue. But I found it didn't want to let them go, so still had to use my fingers! The only rule I stick to is trying to use odd numbers of embellies. It can take me longer to work out where to put them than make the card sometimes. I just put them on my card and move them around till I'm happy or leave them off if nothing works. I hope that helps a little!

anja curvers said...

Wow this looks all awesome as Always. Thanks for joining us over at tag you're it.

Monika/Buzsy said...

Beautiful cards. Love the big silhouette image on the designer paper on the first card. The butterfly is so sweet.

Unknown said...

Darnell, you are a great blog writer... so entertaining. Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed your lovely card and say "thanks" for being our guest designer this challenge period. Hope to see you often in the gallery.

Erin (Homemade Cards by Erin) said...

Love the red in these projects, thanks so much for playing along with us at Tag You're It Challenge.

Helen F. said...

Roses and Butterflies~two of my faves! Love the PP you used and that cute little stitched tag. The CAS 'thank you' card is gorgeous too.
Yeah, sequins...I have no clue where they should go either and always spend waaaaayy too much time trying to place them on my cards.

Petra Swart said...

Love both your cards and so enjoyed your hilarious sequin story, Darnell - you had me LOL!!!! Looking at all the responses you had, it seems as if everybody have trouble most of the time to find the right spots for the things!!!!
Oh, and congrats at that GD spot, hey!!! Enjoy!!!

OH Babs said...

Congrats Irma!

cm said...

Oh, for Pete's sake...where's the dish cloth to clean my laptop screen from having sprayed a mouthful of coffee all over it! Your sequints story - especially the vision of bazooms bedazzling - has me in hysterics. Geez...I can't even compose a coherent comment, laughing too hard! Okay: love your cards, crushing over the bright red butterfly, and yes, your acetate for sequin placement: brillant! I'd buy one! Awesome post!!
Hugs~c

stampwithsandy said...

I am re-visiting this post Darnell as I pinned your beautiful butterfly card ages ago and only now have I acquired the Painted Butterflies stamp set! Love your card as much now as I did over a year ago. Hugs :)