The Daily Marker

Cardmaking Tutorials, Cardmaking Projects

•

Altenew Crafty Friends Blog Hop Day 1 + Giveaway

Hello and welcome to Altenew’s Crafty Friends Blog Hop Day 1 and Giveaway. If you are following “The Daily Marker’s 30 Day Coloring Challenge” … it’s Day 29! I am super excited to join Altenew and other crafty friends!  Crafty friends are the best, aren’t they?  I am always happy when I am crafting alongside other crafty people.  To start at the beginning of the hop go to the Altenew Card Blog.  (You will find the full hop list at the bottom of my post.) If you are coming from My Sweet Petunia’s blog you are in the right place. LOVE Paulina!

This two day hop is all about celebrating our unique community by sharing a project inspired by someone. I decided to celebrate my favorite crafter and I should make ya all guess because I think she’s everybody’s favorite crafter or certainly is one of them. JENNIFER McGuire of Jennifer McGuire Ink is who I want to honor and I am very lucky that she’s my friend a very very special friend indeed! I often say if she was my friend when my kids were little I would have been a better mom. Let’s just say she makes me a better person!

When I am trying to explain to non crafty friends who Jennifer is I say that she’s like Oprah but, in the crafting world lol (big hearted, always giving and spreading kindness plus a good listener to name only a few things) and I like to add that I am like Oprah’s friend Gail King! Now …. I never asked Jennifer if I am her Gail King but, I like to think that I am on some level lol.

As you all know Jennifer loves to make multiple cards and occasionally she makes card sets. As I was creating these I was so close to quitting at number 3 and really pushed myself to finish number four.  Honestly I don’t know how Jennifer does it and I love that she sends out lots of cards too. Add that Jennifer is my card making idol BUT, the most important thing about Jennifer and I am sure that you get this about her. I am happy to confirm that Jennifer is kind to the core and I love how is so open and vulnerable with her anxiety.

Have you heard about a prayer quilt? Creating these was a little bit like that thinking of Jennifer and my gratitude that she’s in my life as I painted each card panel. In this photo the pack of four cards is standing up. I tied them with a belly band of vellum and a bright bow keeping things super simple especially since these were for my mom.

If you want to watch my video in HD click here.

I have created several projects with Altenew’s Pattern Play background stamp.  The large alphabet die cuts are awesome and I love the large scale of the dies. I treated myself many of the letters so I can continue to make cards sets for family.

I glued two pieces of fun foam together to pop the “N” for extra dimension.Each card has a coordinating pop of color on the inside.

Each card was stamped with and inked up with some watercolor friendly ink and then watercolored with Tombow markers. Super relaxing!

I die cut two pieces of fun foam for each N and glued them together and set them under an acrylic block so each letter would dry nice and flat.

If you look close two of my N’s are upside down but, it’s a good thing it works.

Please visit Altenew to see what is available for purchase in the shop!

Special Offer:  FREE U.S. shipping with code CRAFTY18 or $5 OFF international shipping with code FRIENDS18 at checkout. Offer valid from 11/29/2018 at 12:01 am EST through 12/1/2018 at 11:59 pm EST. Not valid on prior purchases. Cannot be combined with other promo codes.

To celebrate with you, Altenew has an amazing giveaway!

Prizes:  Altenew is giving away a $50 gift certificate to 5 lucky winners and one Altenew Academy class to 5 lucky winners. There are also 12 awesome friends who are celebrating with us, and they are offering the following prizes:

 

Be sure to leave comments by Sunday, December 9th, 2018 for a chance to win! 35 winners will be chosen at random from the comments left on all of these blogs listed below and will be announced on the Altenew Card Blog and Altenew Scrapbook Blog on December 15th, 2018.

Next stop in the blog hop is the talented Norine Borys. Thank you so very much for your visit I am always grateful. See you tomorrow for the last day of the coloring challenge until next time that is. Hugs, Kathy

Subscribe to Updates!

When you subscribe to the Daily Marker, you’ll get my very best tips, tricks, and tutorials for making beautiful handmade cards - plus three exclusive videos on coloring techniques!

You Might Also Enjoy...

Comments

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thanks so much, Stacy! I am really happy I made these for my mom. I appreciate your kind comments 🙂

  2. Debbie Rumpza says

    Oh my goodness, Kathy! What a beautiful card set! I love those patterns you’ve been painting. I’ll bet Jennifer will giggle at the idea that you are her “Gail King”! LOL. I have a few cardmaking idols, Jennifer included!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thank you, Debbie! Yes, I have a few crafty idols, and Jennifer is definitely one of them 🙂

  3. Michelle Montemurro says

    Beautiful colors on these initial cards – your mom will love them. Jennifer is my idol too!

  11. Anne H. says

    Eeesh! These are gorgeous cards! What a beautiful set, and couldn’t tell at all that one of the Ns is upsidedown! LOL!

  14. Marsha D says

    These cards are amazing and yes, so is Jennifer. Coming back to watch your video; I really want to know how to make these.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      What a super sweet thing to say, Helen! These really are “easy” watercolor cards. Thank you 🙂

  17. joy meadows says

    Such vibrant and colorful cards, Kathy! I am sure that your mom will love them. Jennifer McGuire is definitely one of my favorite crafters; her creativity is over the top.

  20. Linnea Sundstrom says

    luv your narrative behind the creation of this set. you are also at the top of my favorite crafters.

  21. Barbara Mann says

    Spectacular backgrounds on your cards. I really love your colorful foam letters. Very creative.

  22. Michelle Varol says

    lol.. If you hadn’t mentionned about 2 of the N’s being upside down I wouldn’t have noticed. Stunning coloring as always (but it is YOU we are talking about here). I have so much to learn but you are teaching me slowly but surely. Thank you for all you do Kathy. You rock girl!

  23. Katrin Walker says

    The colors you chose are stunning .. so vibrant and beautiful. I love the idea of using the alpha die to make a gift card set .. I am going to have to invest in those Altenew dies. I had so many ideas come to mind after seeing your cards. Thank you for sharing!!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thank you, Katrin! I am glad I am not the only one inspired by these awesome Altenew products 🙂

  25. Victoria Milam says

    Beautiful and clever cards! I don’t know Jennifer Mcguire personally but she has been very influential to me in my crafting also! Nice tribute to her!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You are so sweet to say so, Victoria! I think Jennifer inspires more people than she could ever imagine 🙂

  26. Michele W says

    Clever cards. You certainly need a lot of patience to paint 4 of those backgrounds but they are worth all the time and effort you put into them. 🙂 I love Jennifer, too. She continuously amazes and inspires me. You do too. I’d be happy if I could color even 1/5th as good as you. 🙂

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You brightened my day, Michele! If you watch my video, this really is an easy watercolor effort…yours would be at least as good as these 🙂

  27. barbara lassiter says

    These are beautiful and so colorful (and color is one thing that draws me into creativity) and I’m sure your Mother will love them. Yes, it’s true, Jennifer is a great inspiration to all and her kindness shines through, but she’s not alone in this group and you’re right there with her. Thanks to you and everyone for all you do! Just saying! 🙂

  29. Kim Faucher says

    Heehee! You make me giggle in your comments of being Jennifer’s Gail King!! Love it! Lol you girls are so wonderfully creative and the most kind and pure souls . I hope to be able to meet Jennifer in real life one day to give her the hugest of hugs and to see you again and be able to create with you again ( and give you hugs as well) .
    These cards are stunning!!!

  34. Carol Rossouw says

    Wow! These are absolutely beautiful – and I agree, Jennifer really is everyone’s favourite 🙂 Thanks for the inspiration! What a wonderful blog hop to celebrate this great international crafty community!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      I am grateful for your kind words, Carol! Yes, I am grateful for the internet so we can connect internationally with craft lovers all over the world.

  40. Pooja says

    What a perfect description for Jennifer ‘Oprah ‘ of crafting community !! Loved reading about your friendship with her and how she inspires you ! Beautiful set of cards 🙂

  41. Elaine Dunton says

    Truly Beautiful Cards. You make me feel like I can do this and I’m going to try! Thank you for the inspiration.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thank you, Elaine! I am so glad you are inspired enough to go give it a try. Thank you for stopping by 🙂

  42. Pat zSchwartz says

    Love your card and colors!! Yes. I have never met Jennifer but have been following her for years. Totally agree with all your comments about her.

  43. BECCA YAHRLING says

    These are just gorgeous and your Mom is going to love them, of course.
    Love the pretty colors you used together; perfection. Don’t think anyone
    would’ve noticed the upside down N’s. lol

  46. Deep Lakshman says

    Thank you for the coloring tips. Love these set of cards & yes I do consider Jennifer as the Oprah of the crafting world.

  47. Mary Anderson says

    Your ability to paint the cards with all that patience is amazing! Who cares if the N is upside down – they look fantastic.

  50. Ingrid den hollander says

    This blog hop is so inspiring!!! So many beautiful creations. Happy to be a crafter

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thank you!!! Haha, maybe their is a support group for crafters like us who get letters inverted LOL 🙂

  52. Denise Terry says

    That is some great inspiration there, Kathy! I love those note cards and may take some inspiration for them when I make my mom’s Mother’s Day present next year (I like to give her a set of note cards each year, with a different theme).

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thank you so much, Denise! I’ll bet your mom is super excited to see what you created for her each year 🙂

  53. Ruby Marchand says

    Gorgeous cards. They are so colorful. I love all the different patterns. Thanks for sharing.

  59. BeverlyBL says

    Your cards are amazing. I know your mom will love them, and so will the people she sends them to.
    So bright and cheery.

  62. Kimberly McField says

    I really like the bright, cheerful colors you used. And no one would notice the upside down Ns… they look great! 🙂

  67. Anne Sturgeon says

    I love all the wonderful colors. I know these were labor intensive but so worth it. You and Jennifer truly share an admiration for one another. I have heard her say on gifted you are and I know you have a ball when you are together. Two great crafty friends! Thanks for telling this story…

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You made my day, Anne! Thank you for your thoughtful comments and for being a loyal fellow crafter 🙂

  69. Jean Fulton says

    These cards are gorgeous, amazing and have such vivid colors. Thank you for sharing your work.

  70. Anne L says

    Beautiful! Smart idea to use foam – I forget I have foam sometimes and spend lots of time die cutting the same image to get a heightened effect!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You are so sweet, Anne! I like the foam because I get dimension without making the card overly heavy. Thank you for stopping by 🙂

  71. Madeleine says

    Beautiful card!! So glad you pushed through to make a set– the variety of colors is absolutely gorgeous.

  73. Janet Durbin says

    Oh I am sure your mother will love these cards, they are awesome! Jennifer McGuire is also a person I admire, I don’t know how she keeps coming up with all her ideas! lol She is super talented!

  74. Debstamps says

    The first thought I had when I saw your card set was “oooooooooooooo!” You know the fireworks noise?! And then I had the Where’s Waldo moment as I saw there was something else in the picture…lovely work friend! Thanks for the inspiration…

  79. Viveca V. says

    Awwww. . . .what a wonderful story. 🙂
    I think BOTH you and Jennifer M. are super crafters, and I love the techniques and cards that you share on your blogs.
    This colorful card set with “N” is a great idea for a gift.
    Thanks for the inspiration!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Viveca, I am so grateful for your sweet comment! Thank you very much for stopping by 🙂

  84. Sheri Kempke says

    Thank you for sharing you method of water coloring with Tombow markers, I’ve tried it and not happy, but using the marker first dry, then adding water to the area you want to move it to–GENIUS! I’m planning to make a card today using those markers. I’m so happy you talked about Jennifer, I’d love to meet her in person because she is like Oprah in the crafty world! I’ve been watching her videos for years and that is how I met you! I have to say I’ve never met a crafty person who is not super nice–my theory is that by creating something it makes us become nicer-after all, we give away most of the stuff we make!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Sheri, you say the sweetest things! I am grateful for your lovely comments; you make my heart smile 🙂

  85. Jeanne Beam says

    Your cards are beautiful and what a lovely gift for your Mom!
    Thanks so much for sharing how you feel about Jennifer McGuire!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You are so sweet, Sheila! Yes, please give it a try. Have fun and I am sure yours will be lovely 🙂

  89. CYNTHIA MCCOOL says

    I am also inspired by Jennifer McGuire. Unfortunately few of her projects come true for me but I own all the supplies! LOL thanks for sharing.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      LOL, I know what you mean, Cynthia. I feel that way sometimes too. Thank you for hopping by 🙂

  90. penny reinhart says

    these cards are wonderfully colored and very vibrant your mom will love them thanks for being part of the hop

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You are so sweet, Karen! You will love these products; they are truly some of my most favorite 🙂

  92. Bunny says

    These are beautiful. I love watercolor. I think you are also a crafter that people look up to when it comes to creating. You can be the Gail to Jennifer’s Oprah.

  94. Amy Lombardo says

    Kathy, your card set is beautiful. There are so many words to describe them! I’ve subscribed to your blog now so I won’t miss your posts!

  96. Karen Page says

    Wow! I can’t even imagine how *loooong* these took to make!!! Absolutely beautiful though 🙂

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thanks so much, Karen! They are not as time consuming as you might think. I appreciate your stopping by 🙂

  102. Barbara-Jean says

    Love that quilted look! What you said about Jennifer seems so true, wish I knew her personally. Your blogs always speak to my heart, too.

  103. Teresa Doyle says

    I love this background stamp Kathy and you lesson in how you water coloured great. Very well explained for a newbie like myself and this stamp would be a great one to practice your technique. TFS.

  105. Bernice Janssen says

    Even though I have never met Jennifer, I feel like I can agree on your comments about her. Her good qualities are reflected on her blog in what she says and does there! These cards are so bright and cheerful…your mom will love them!

  108. Sharon L. says

    Gorgeous card set, I’m sure your mom will love them. While I’m not so much into watercoloring, I really like the bright and vibrant colors on these.

  111. Debra Strohbehn says

    Your coloring on these cards is stunning! I’m glad you were able to make it through all four and show us how beautiful they look.

  112. Johanna T. says

    Wow! These cards are absolutely stunning. Love, love, love the colors. Thanks so much for sharing your technique in the video.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      What a lovely comment, Johanna! You made my day. I am glad you found my tip on the video helpful 🙂

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You are so kind, Sue! I think each of us see any flaw in our own work glaringly, but others usually do not. Thank you for your sweet comment 🙂

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Your comment gave me the giggles, Arlene…colorlicious 🙂 I hope you try this easy technique, but most of all have fun with the process.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thank you so much, Judie! I appreciate your kind words. Thank you for hopping by 🙂

  117. Kerry says

    This was my first time watching one of your videos. Loved it!!!
    I’ll subscribe and view all of the past ones as well.
    Thank you !!!

  120. Michele Clay says

    Kathy! These cards are just over-the-top! Your coloring is the best and you so inspire me! You took a simple stamp set and made it AMAZING!!!!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      What a lovely compliment, Michele! You made my day. Thank you for your sweet words 🙂

  122. Daniela May says

    A lot of work but the result is beautiful Kathy. Great tribute to Jennifer as well… love being part of this crafting community even though from the fringes, it is still inspiring…

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Your kindness makes me smile, Daniela! I feel like I am on the fringes sometimes too when I see all of the various card makers on blogs from all over the world; all different and wonderful in their own way. Glad you are part of this community too 🙂

  123. Rrosann Barnes says

    Yes ! Jennifer is pretty amazing! These cards are fabulous, the dimension you created is awesome !!

  125. Tracy Lustick says

    I watched you painting these card fronts while I was making plaid backgrounds. And thought I must go paint now ! You and Jennifer are absolutely contagious to my creativity .

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Creativity is contagious, Tracy! I’m glad you caught the crafty bug too. Thank you for your sweet comment 🙂

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      I appreciate your kind words, Helen! It means a lot to me that you enjoyed the post and video. Thank you for hopping by 🙂

  129. Cheryl says

    Unbelievable coloring! And turning what I would call a background into the focal point is indeed creative, it works!

  130. Kaye Thrasher says

    Love this stamp set. Great simple technique that I can’t wait to try. Thanks so much for sharing your art.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You brightened my day, Kaye! I hope you try my easy watercolor technique…but most of all enjoy the process 🙂

  131. Linda Walter says

    Love your set of cards! What bright, happy colors! I agree about Jennifer. She has inspired me so much, just as you do. Have enjoyed participating in your 30 day coloring challenge. Hope you will do it again.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thank you so much, Linda! What a lovely comment. I am so happy that you were able to participate, and yes, there will be another coloring challenge in 2019 🙂

      • Linda Walter says

        Kathy, you are amazing answering all these comments! It made my day seeing a comment from you. I just returned from a sad trip to Indiana for a funeral, and was catching up on emails after driving for hours, and hearing from you really cheered me up. Thanks so much. Your friend in PA, Linda

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You are so kind, Karthikha! What a sweet and lovely compliment. Thank you for hopping by 🙂

  135. Sarah S says

    We all love Jennifer. She is my idol, too! Didnt read all the comments, but I sure want to know what you were doing with fingernail polish and chicken bones……:)

  138. Coco says

    That’s quite some coloring but love the results 🙂
    Seriously if you didn’t mentioned it, would not have realized the Ns were flipped… Thks for the share n tips.

  141. Stef Perry says

    Oh Kathy I am in awe of these cards and you have inspired me to dust off my seriously underused Tombow markers and try your coloring technique!! Your tribute to JM is an affirmation of how I have felt about her since discovering her blog a little over 2 years ago. The crafty world is a far better place because of people such as Jennifer and you too, dear Kathy, who freely share crafting insight and inspiration. A big crafty hug and thank you!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You make my heart smile, Stef! I’m sending a virtual hug right back to you. Crafty friends are the sweetest 🙂

  146. Sharon P. says

    Your colors are bright and vivid creating a joyous feeling. Such a marvelous idea to do initials for a set of cards as gifts.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      I appreciate your kind words, Sharon! I’m glad you like the idea of monogram cards. Thank you for hopping by 🙂

  148. Kristen says

    My GOODNESS! Talk about amazing color, composition and creativity. I have a couple of these type of stamps from Altenew but my end product doesn’t look like this! i now have something to shoot for! Thank you for the inspiration!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Oh, you are the sweetest, Kristen! I am sure your cards are wonderful; we are always our own worst critic. Thank you for your kind words 🙂

  150. Kathy Ferguson says

    Gorgeous card Kathy. I loved watching you watercolor. Your cards would make a terrific gift. Thanks for sharing your time and talent with us.

  152. Hussena Calcuttawala says

    Omg !! what a gorgeous set of cards Kathy.Your coloring always add that bit of magic to whatever you create:).I agree with your description of Jennifer being Oprah of the crafty community and you would definitely be the Gail to her Oprah.Never seen two more kind hearted and generous people like you two 🙂

  157. Denise Kitts-Wadlow says

    Wow! Your cards really DO look quilted. They have that puffy look that quilts get with all that batting in them! I’m sure your mom will love them and that Jennifer feels as blessed to have you for a friend as you feel to have her for your friend. I would love to meet her one day. Any time another crafter brings up her name in their video tutorials, their words about her are just brimming with respect and gratitude for who she is, and her big, kind heart! I’ve not once heard an unkind word about her. I’m a big fan of hers, and I hope she knows how much all of us in the crafting world love her. How wonderful of you to honor her in this way. Great job Kathy–TFS and have a wonderfully blessed day.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      This is one of the loveliest comments I have ever read, Denise! You are so thoughtful and kind. I love that about blogs…”meeting” the sweetest crafters from all over the country and the world 🙂

  158. Nanette Leiker says

    These card sets are so terrific! I don’t think I ever would of doing this ! They are so bright and colorful and so beautiful! I do not know enough adjectives! Thank you for sharing your techniques with all of us!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Oh, Nanette, you are so sweet! I am thrilled that you like this set so much. Thank you for hopping by 🙂

  163. Tamara Lewis says

    Lovely cards! my favorite part is your sharing your mistakes. I fudge mistakes all the time. Yay, I am normal!!

  164. Cheryl says

    Oh, you make me giggle. Upside down N. No way. Or was the card folded on the right side? If it had been an M it would have popped out at me. But I always tell my kids that MOM upside down is WOW.

    Thanks for the chuckle.

  165. Wendy Lambert says

    I love these cards. I only have a couple of Tombows but I do plan on buying more! The possibilities are endless for this design! Thank you for sharing. I am a huge Jennifer McGuire fan, she is so talented and sweet!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thank you so much, Wendy! I hope you get every Tomboy your heart desires for Christmas and a few more 🙂

  168. Sherry Butcher says

    oh such a great idea, love the set with the different colors and the N’s (no one need to know 2 are upside down) Thanks for sharing your designs

  170. Cathy Morris says

    Amazing cards! So dimensional and vibrant. The stamp is deceptively simple looking but versital. Thanks for sharing your talent and about your friendship with Jennifer McGuire. I’m a fan of you both!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You are so sweet, Karen! Please go try something bold too…but most of all, have fun with the process 🙂

  176. Dj Doss says

    As always the coloring is spectacular. I love your style and humor. What a lucky recipient of your lovely cards. TFS!

  177. BrendaLea Abbott says

    Kathy, your cards are stunning and I’m sure your Mother will think so as well. At first I didn’t even see the letter “N”, and sure did not notice the blooper. Your coloring of the cards is impeccable!

  179. Mary Holshouser says

    The tufting is amazing.
    Gorgeous cards. Love the
    color combinations. I can
    see where doing several of these
    would be mind-boggling.
    thanks for sharing
    txmlhl(at)yahoo(dot)com

  180. SusanME says

    These are gorgeous cards! I love that you likened them to prayer quilts. Jennifer is one of my idols, as well (and so are you!).

  182. Kathleen C. says

    Thank you for this post! I am a new card maker and it has been so helpful to read blogs like yours. The colors you use are so fantastic and your blending skills are remarkable!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You are so thoughtful, Kathleen! Thank you so much for your sweet comment. It means the world to me 🙂

  183. Janet Hayes says

    Beautiful cards! I have a friend who shares my cards with her quilting group – these would be perfect. Thanks for a wonderful idea.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thank you so much, Janet! I am glad you like the idea. Card making and quilting are similar…quilters always seem to create lovely cards, in my humble opinion 🙂

  185. Michelle Hackett says

    What a wonderful ode to your friend Jennifer. She is my idol as well. As are you Kathy. You do some of the most beautiful coloring I have ever seen. And I look forward to your 30 day challenge every year. This set of cards are amazing, and it’s made me think maybe I should make a set for my favorite Aunt. Happy Holidays.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      I am grateful for your kind words, Michelle! I hope you make a set for your favorite aunt and share them for the next coloring challenge in 2019. Happy holidays to you too 🙂

  186. Joanne Howard says

    I would have never seen the upside down “N” if you hadn’t pointed it out! Yes, Jennifer is a steller human being. I was lucky enough to take a class from her , before her children were born at Angela’s Happy Stamper. You are lucky to have eachother!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thank you so much, Joanne! I am so sad that Angela’s closed. I am glad you had a chance to take a class from Jennifer. She is an amazing talent 🙂

  187. Robin Kepler says

    I absolutely love this background and how you made the simple additional pop up letter for an elegant note card. Thank you for being part of the blog hop, such a fun way to find new ideas.

  188. Liz McAllister says

    i THINK COLORING IS MUCH MORE TIME CONSUIMING THAN DIE CUTTING OR STAMPING. i THINK THAT IS JMcG’s secret to multiples!

  189. Terrie D. says

    Your card set is so beautiful! I love the colors you used on each card, and the extra dimension you got using 2 pieces of fun foam. I am also a Jennifer McGuire fan. 🙂

  190. Miriam Prantner says

    These are gorgeous! I love how dimensional the backgrounds look, almost quilted! I’m glad that you didn’t quit!

  196. Bonnie Eng says

    WOW – those cards are amazing and I completely see how they could be time consuming, seeing how much care you put into the colouring! Beautiful results though, and now I am really wanting those large letter dies too! I agree, Jennifer McGuire is completely inspiring and there are so many of her projects that have awed me too.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You are so sweet, Bonnie! I hope you get the larger dies and enjoy them. Thank you for taking the time to leave such lovely comment. It means a lot to me 🙂

  197. cyndi morris says

    Wonderful projects. I love the colors. The Pattern Play background stamp has been on my wish list since it come out and you’ve used it beautifully.

  199. Lee says

    Kathy what would we all do without your encouragement and calming talk to accompany your clear and perfect “lessons” and demos. The texture on these is beautiful. Thank you for (almost) a year of learning and inspiration and character (like your typical homage to Jennifer). You’re one of a kind, Lady!

  200. Olive M says

    Lovely bright colorful set of cards. An easy to follow technique with a big impact. I’m going to take another look at my background stamps and see if I have something that will work. Thanks for sharing.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thank you, Olive! And I hope you find a background stamp in your stash that inspires you. Always a good idea to find another use for stamps that we already own 🙂

  202. Henriëtte says

    These cards are so awesome, love your watercolouring. They are so elegant and vibrant and I love them! Jennifer is such a inspiration for everyone, just like you are for us on your own way.
    I love to colour and the challenge is great, although every time I want to colour more for the challenge, it doesn’t work, there is always something that makes it difficult to sit down and take some me-time. But reading your posts and watching your great work, is also enough for me. Thank you and see you on the last day of the challenge.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Henriette, I can’t believe another coloring challenge is in the books! I am grateful for your loyalty and I am so happy that just reading my blog gives you a little ‘me’ time 🙂

  203. Jeannie F says

    Beautiful, beautiful cards! A lovely gift for sure. I only know Jennifer from magazines and videos, but she seems like an awesome and kind person. I am glad you are friends!

  204. MelissaF says

    Such a GORGEOUS water colored card set, what an awesome gift! Thank YOU for all your inspiration and video tutorials especially with coloring and the encouragement to just give it a try.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      You are so sweet, Melissa! Thank you so much for taking time to leave such a lovely comment 🙂

  205. Lenice W says

    Gorgeous cards! Excellent job with the watercolor shading and the look of the N. I love the different colors you chose, and that it all goes together in a nice set. Thanks for sharing!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Barb, I appreciate your kind words! Thank you for taking time to read my blog and leave a comment. It means a lot to me 🙂

  210. Sara Santora says

    WOW what wonderful colorful creations! I totally know what you mean by calling Jennifer the Oprah of card making! She’s a big inspiration to so many of us!

  215. Mary-Anne V says

    You are very blessed with such wonderful and crafty friends. This card is just awesome and I love the beautiful monochromatic look and raised initial you created. Love the final results.

  216. Betty says

    your coloring is always so fantastic, Kathy – and your mother will surely love these cards from her talented daughter -hope she doesn’t think they’re too pretty to use!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Thank you, Denise! They don’t take as long as you might think if you purposely make a pattern. I appreciate your hopping by 🙂

  221. Cathy Lillie says

    Your card set is beautiful! The patience it must have taken to do all four. I love the vibrant colors and the diamond design. The tutorial was very helpful in how to get rid of the pronounced lines from the marker. Thanks for sharing and have a happy holiday!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      What a sweet and lovely comment, Cathy! I am thrilled that you found the tutorial helpful 🙂

  225. Amy Peyton says

    This card set is stunning! I absolutely love all of the bright colors. Jennifer McGuire definitely inspires me too, so awesome that you can count her as a friend!

  227. Toni C says

    So pretty. Popping up a die cut like that is one of my favourite techniques. And I love how you described Jennifer.

  228. Annette Reed says

    These are wonderful! I admire your patience in doing all that coloring. The colors are bright and well blended. Even when you say some letters are upside down I couldn’t tell from the pics.

  234. Melissa Smith says

    Your card set is beautiful! I really enjoyed watching your video and am really inspired to try a set with my new Tombow markers. I know Jennifer had to be honored to hear such kind words from you! I am new to card making and am in awe of so much talent! The blog hops teach me a lot.

  236. Linda R says

    Oh wow! These cards are beautiful. Your colors are outstanding! Thanks for the video and for sharing these spectacular pieces of art.

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Linda, you are so thoughtful! It means a lot to me that you like my card set so much 🙂

  239. Cindy Q says

    These cards are A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!! Love your color combos. Brilliant as always – thanks for sharing!

  240. Amanda Laine says

    Gayle to Jennifer’s Oprah!! That’s an awesome analogy! Love the cards! With all of the coloring I could understand why you wanted to stop at 3!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Amanda, your comment made me giggle! Your comment is so fun and thoughtful. Thank you for hopping by 🙂

  244. Cindy says

    Not only did you make me cry with your kind and heartfelt works to Jennifer, you are a blessing also Kathy. Your cards are totally awesome and your Mom will love them cuz you made them and you are very talented.!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Cindy, this is one of the loveliest comments I have ever read, and I am so grateful to you. Thank you so much 🙂

  246. Sandy-O says

    What gorgeous cards. The 2D cards (without the N) appears to be stunning 3D cards because of the way you painted each diamond shape. That’s your creative talent doing all that, and it’s marvelous.

  247. D.Ann C says

    I’m a huge JM fan, too (and also a KR fan!!). I could craft every day for a year just CASEing projects of hers that I love. lol! I LOVE how you colored these… they have so much dimension!!

    • Kathy Racoosin says

      Ann, I couldn’t agree more! JM has more talent in her pinky finger than others have in their whole body. She is amazing. I am so happy that you like my card set 🙂

  250. Annalisa says

    What a sweet tribute to Jennifer! I don’t know how she does multiple sets like that either! Every one of her videos looks like a crafty marathon. I’m sure your mama will love these cards; they are awfully special, much like you!

  252. Vivien Tang says

    Yes, Jennifer is so awesome and inspiring!
    love those colors on your cards! it’s a beautiful set! thanks for sharing.

  254. Jeanette Hebden says

    There are so many lovely and talented crafters out there and they freely give their tips and share so much just as you do Kathy. Love this set and the vibrant colours.

  259. Connie says

    Wowza! Kathy your cards are amazing! I love your color palettes and the depth of each card! What a sweet tribute to Jennifer McGuire too. Isn’t it wonderful to have great mentors!!!

  260. Sarah Williamson says

    These are simply stunning. I want to try this now! With a different letter of course 😉

  262. Melinda Brown says

    I actually got encourages when you said you almost quit at card 3. Because when I, whose fairly new at card making, see the cards of people like you and Jennifer McGuire and May Soyoungpark I can get discouraged thinking you’re so talented. Kinda like you’re subhuman in talent. But to realoze you get frustrated just as I do and the last blog the blogger said she threw out cards that she wasn’t satisfied with its like, yes things taje work and frustrations happen. So it kinda pushes me to just keep going and working at becoming good. 😀 Thanks!!

  267. Rebekah A. says

    LOVE this idea! They came out beautiful! Thanks for the video! I just love watching tutorials!

  273. Lisa Byers says

    Your cards are spectacular!! I love bright cheery cards and yours are certainly that way!! I love your technique and I want to try it. I enjoy watching Jennifer McGuire’s videos. She’s the reason I have a halfway decent organized room. Plus, she has taught me so many things I never knew about cardmaking.

  275. Gail Plaskiewicz says

    Oh my gosh, because of my thyroid problem I am really cold in the winter so I could use a few quilts. Thanks for making some to keep me warm! LOL It’s so cool that you & Jen are best buds Care to have a 3rd bud? LOL I love how colorful your quilts are & how they look puffy like they are stuffed & real. Your coloring is amazing!
    As for your N’s, I really looked at them & yes, they are upside down, I think. If you didn’t say they were upside down, guess what? No one would have known. Okay, maybe only I wouldn’t have known. That’s one of the few letters that looks the same upside down as right side up, just to let you know.
    Thanks for showing us your colorful cards & for giving us the chance to win something. I am jealous of your talent & your friendship. I wish I had both!

  276. Monica W says

    Love those bright colors! Your coloring is always super and love the idea of using the stamp set as a quilt.

  277. Bianca Prato says

    Your coloring is flawless as usual! Thank you for inspiring so many to just have fun and color. It’s definitely been very therapeutic for me these last few years! Thank you!!

  278. Candy B. says

    Your mom will love these cards – so pretty!
    You and Jennifer have a wonderful friendship beyond crafting! And you both recognize and appreciate it which makes it even more special.

  280. Nan Spier says

    Oh my! So vibrant and creative. Now you’ve inspired me to go back and look at other background stamps I have!

  281. Mindy Drummond says

    These cards are so cool looking! I was not sure looking at them if I had the patients to do them but after watching your video I think I am going to try 1 or 2 lol. Thank you for sharing them and for making the video and for the awesome inspiration!
    (mardy14@bellsouth.net)

  282. Jane Booth says

    Now I HAVE to have that background stamp so that I can watercolor it!!! Thank you so much for sharing!

  283. Subhashini says

    Wow! How amazing the quilt design is! Love the addition of foam to add dimension to the alphabets.

  286. Jess K says

    WOW, your coloring is amazing. Love the bright colors, and your Mom will love them. Thanks for inspiring us with your talent!

Trackbacks

Subscribe & Connect

Subscribe below and be the first to know each time we post a new project!

Recent Projects