Think Spring

When I saw the theme of the challenge this week at Simon Says Stamp Blog it reminded me of growing up in Minnesota.  April was always rainy, which brought the flowers in May.  But now that we live in the middle of the desert, things are quite different.  We've had only one day of rain here.  But, nonetheless, my roses are already blooming beautifully.

I do love this time of year.  It's not too warm, and not too cold - just right.  So, as I entered this challenge (several times, I might add), it made me think of Spring.  It's just a beautiful season.  And I hope that after my surgery, I will be able to go for long walks again and enjoy this weather before it does get too hot to be outside.

Here are the links to the different challenges I'm entering with this Spring card.

http://www.simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/2012/04/simon-says-april-showers-bring-spring.html - Simon Says Stamp/April Showers Bring Spring Flowers (and butterflies)

http://www.sweetstopsketches.blogspot.com/2012/04/sss154-april-14.html - Sweet Stop Sketches Challenge Blog/Challenge #154 - I chose to use Sketch #SSS-57

http://www.toptiptuesday.blogspot.com/2012/04/challenge-74-spotty-dotty.html - Top Tip Tuesday Blog - Challenge #74 - Spotty Dotty.  I just LOVE this spotted paper from October Afternoon.  I used used little "spots" (mini pearls) on my butterflies.

Here is my TOP TIP:  I make all my own scrunched seam binding.  You will see it on most of my projects.  I know how expensive the glimmer mists can get sometimes, so here is a great idea for making your own.  Purchase some little spray bottles (I get mine at the Dollar Tree 2/$1) and fill the bottle just less than half way with warm water.  Next, you add about 2-3 T. of your choice of color Acrylic Paint (YES, the cheap stuff from the craft store).  Next, you add either Perfect Pearls, a few drops of white metalic paint or some ultra fine glitter, 1-2 T. of clear craft glue, and shake it up.  Moisten your white seam binding and scrunch it in your hand.  Then, lay it on a plastic mat and spray it thoroughly with this mixture you've made.  Then, scrunch it in a tight ball and wad it into the corner of a snack baggie.  Let it sit an hour or so, and then hang it out to dry.  POOF - you have scrunched seam binding of ANY COLOR you choose.  It not only saves you money, but it also gives you a sense of accomplishment.  Not to mention, I think it looks pretty fabulous.

I hope you've enjoyed your visit today.  If you have tips you'd like to share, I would sure like to hear them.  You may even want to share them at Top Tip Tuesday Challenge Blog for a chance to win great prizes.  And if you click on the other entrants' links, you can get their awesome tips as well.  Thanks again for stopp by.

Have a blessed day,
Karen