Penny Black continues their 'one layer' card technique that they call "Effortless Elegance." I like that term, a lot! And I really like these cards by Jill Foster.

by Jill Foster for Penny Black

by Jill Foster for Penny Black

Here's the link to Jill's how-to video:  http://pennyblackinc.wordpress.com/2014/04/25/effortless-elegance-jill/

At Art 'n Soul, we've learned a similar technique at one of the classes taught by Helene Metivier with Magenta. I like layered cards; however, there are times when it's so nice to send a card that isn't layered but still has a lot of artistic elements.



Memory Box is showing a very nice spring bouquet card using their basket and bouquet dies. I passed these over and now I think I should reconsider!

by Pam Sparks for Memory Box

This is the link:  http://davebrethauer.typepad.com/outsidethebox/2014/04/bountiful-basket-of-birthday-wishes.html

And then I saw this 'radiant' card' using one of the new Memory Box stencils . . .

Card by Jean Okimoto for Memory Box

Here's the link . . . http://davebrethauer.typepad.com/outsidethebox/2014/04/hooray-for-you.html

Frances Byrne from Australia shows how to use a new masking technique when using the Elizabeth Craft Designs' Silk Microfine Glitters and their dies. This technique offers so many possibilities.

by Frances Byrne for Elizabeth Craft Designs

This is the link to the blog site for the step-by-step directions:  http://ecraftdesignsblog.com/2014/04/glittered-koi/

John Petersen at IMAGINE Crafts shows how you can use the All Purpose Inks from IMAGINE Crafts/Tsukineko for your hand lettered projects.

If the video doesn't work by clicking on the photo, click on this link to take you to the posting:  http://imaginecraftsblog.com/2014/04/25/calligraphy-with-all-purpose-inks/.

Magenta's new Spring Release Catalog is out . . . and we know you're going to like several of the new stamps and templates. I personally like the new word stamps!

Click on this image to see the catalog: 

Please come on in to place your order, or you are welcome to email (artnsoul@artnsoul.comcastbiz.net) or call us (360.357.6820) to place your order.

I'm really looking forward to Lisa Lee's Inchie Arts class tomorrow (Saturday) at the store. The 'water soluble' technique intrigues me.

by Lisa Lee for Inchie Arts

That's all for today! Thanks for stopping by.