Chalk isn't just for kids, you know!

Why should kids be the only ones to play with chalk?  Have you ever admired (secretly coveted) those fun sidewalk decorating chalks that come in a rainbow of colors?  Chalks are not just for sidewalks and boring chalk boards!  Try Close To My Heart chalks to color your stamped images! Close to My Heart currently carries 4 different chalk sets (p. 98 of the current catalog) that feature our fun exclusive color palette.  The sets are each just $9.95 and include 9 little 1"x1" blocks of colorful chalk.

I used my chalks to create this pretty bird card.  The background image on the colonial white square is used using the Chalk Popping technique discussed below. I then stamped the bird image and cut it out before applying to the top of the white piece. I used the Passages paper kit and C1408 Live Inspired stamps. 

This is such a fun technique . . . but I know sometimes it can be scary to try something that normally colors the sidewalk!  Never fear, grab your pixie or pudgy (the little makeup applicators that come with the chalk) or just a qtip or cottonball and swab some chalk.  Apply it to your image . . . it's easier to start light and then add more color.  A little chalk goes a long way.  After the desired hue is achieved, gently blow the rest off and use your finger to gently rub the excess off.  That's it.  No need to set with anything . . . the color will not rub off or transfer to your other artwork.  It's acid free and completely safe to use on your scrapbook pages.

Ready for an advanced chalking technique?  Try some Chalk Popping -- the look is very, very fun!  First, stamp your desired image with your VersaMark stamp pad.  The image will be clear, so it may be hard to see.  Brush chalk over your image, making the stamped image pop, or appear like magic!  See page 21 of the current catalog.  I took a picture of my tools, but if this makes no sense, give me a call or email and let me know you are having chalk issues.    It's fast and easy!  Try it today!

Something Splendid FREE

Pretty Card made by Judy.

Summer is winding down which makes me sad and happy, all at the same time.  The weather hasn't been very warm . . . hopefully we'll have some more warm summer days, it feels like Fall already.

This month's Stamp of the Month is very pretty and so versatile.  The card exchange members this month chose to use Passages for the colors and the flowers were decidedly Fall with sunflower colors.  However, the last page of the catalog shows the set in pretty pinks!  I love sets that can be used for many different looks and styles.  Don't wait though . . . this stunning set is only available through August 31st.  Click here for details: Stamp of the Month.