Tan with Black Leaflet, Terra Cotta, and Cream

Something very different today!  I was inspired by Stephanie's butterfly card (scroll down to her 4th photo) on her Stamping and Sharing blog.  My framed leaflet and sentiment are like hers, but in a different overall setting.  Thanks for your beautiful example, Stephanie! 

Card details:

• Card stock is Papertrey Ink (PTI) rustic cream, fine linen (tan), terra cotta tile (rust), true black,  and the stripes print from PTI fine linen pattern pack.
• Dies are WPlus9 folk art florals (large leaflet), PTI framed out #12 (I also used the cutout square), and PTI countdown details (small double-ended banner).  
• Embroidery floss is an old skein of black American Star brand.  It's rougher textured than DMC, which is nice for this card.  
• Embossing folder is Stampin' Up square lattice.   
• Sentiment "hello" is computer-printed in black ink with Matura MT Script Capitals font.
• Technique:  I used a black 100 Copic marker to edge the sentiment banner, cream panel, and two sides of the terra cotta square layer.  This is a simple, quick way to create some definition and a "faux layer" effect.  You can use any color marker, not just black.  It needs a steady hand, but it's not difficult, with a little practice.  Hold your card stock firmly with the edge facing up toward you.  (A heavier card stock is easiest, especially at first.)  Run the chisel tip of your marker along the edge.  Go at a fairly slow, controlled, steady pace.  Don't stop or slow down.  You may want to repeat for a deeper edge.  Also you may want to angle a bit toward the front of the piece for more width.  Just give it a try and see what works for you. 

Created for Operation Write Home, "supporting our nation's armed forces by sending blank handmade greeting cards to write home on, as well as cards of gratitude to encourage them." (291)