Black Fajitas

{jane bosi}  I just read one of those "pick your name" thingys on Facebook--Name Your Band.  You arrive at your band name by noting the color of your pants and the last thing you ate.....LOL!!  Black Fajitas would be my band name and we would sing our heads off!

It made me think of this card I made with the last of my Gel Printing Plate paper---time to have more gel printing fun!  For this one, I stamped over the colorful background with the Barbed Wire stamp.  I added Free My Soul and a few sequins for a little shine...

What's your band's name???
LOL--Be Awesome!  Jane

Those Who Wish To Sing

{jane bosi} Greetings, Junkies!!  Today's project is a colorful one I created using my Gel Press Printing Plate, some acrylic paint and a few other odds and ends!  I love using the printing plates and have found need for one of every size!  Even my kiddo's like to use them.  I wish I had discovered them years ago when we were heavy into finger painting!  I was lucky enough to get several background pieces from just one inking of the plate--so, you are likely to see this combo of colors on some upcoming projects, as well!

Once dry, I punched several differently sized circles from the background piece and then layered it over a second background.  For the second background, I used kraft cardstock, black ink and one of my favorite background stamps, Fresh Chevron.

To finish things off, I added Rain Dance and Always Find A Song.

Enjoy!  Be Awesome--Jane

Sometimes.....Things Fall Apart

Happy Thursday, Friends!!  Last week, the Technique Junkie Designers kicked off the new month spotlighting a brand new release from Technique Junkies! I had so much fun with the new images, I just couldn't stop!

I started by inking the London Eye image in a variety of distress inks.  After misting lightly with water, I stamped the image on white card stock.  Once dry, I reinked with black and stamped again. It's a simple process, but one that produces interesting results.  I'm all for the complicate techniques, but I love it when art is easy, too!

To complete the card, I added Better Things--a fun Marilyn Monroe quote!

TTFN--Jane

Things I Want To Do

{jane bosi} On the last day of 2015, I cannot think of any better advice that that found in the Technique Junkie stamp set, Things I Want To Do!

I've combined these words of wisdom with one of my most favorite floral images, also from Technique Junkie stamps, Flourished Floral.  I love the eclectic feel of the image and its versatility.  Above, I've watered colored the image with distress inks.  Here, I embossed the image onto a stone tile and then colored with Copic markers:

So many great ways to use it all!!  Have a great, and safe New Years---be sure to visit the Technique Junkie blog tomorrow--New Year, New Stamps and we are hoppin' with inspiration to share with you all!!

Until tomorrow--be awesome!  Jane

A Partridge, A Pear Tree

{jane bosi}  This lovely image is so much fun to work with!  I'm not wholly convinced it's a just for Christmas time image!  Despite being Partridge in a Pear Tree, and all the Christmasy connotations, this is an image for year round use!  It's easy to omit the sentiment when stamping, as I've done, and is seasonably versatile.....because I said so!  LOL!!

I wanted an end project that was soft and shabby.  I started by coloring right on to the stamp face with distress markers and then stamping on Fabriano water color paper.  Next, I ran my aqua brush over the tree trunk and branches to enhance the water colored look.

I added accent stamping with both the Fresh Chevron and French Text backgrounds.  I lightened the edges of the focal image with gesso rubbings, allowing just portions of the french script to be seen.  I love how this softened the look and feel of the card.

In all the hustle and bustle, I hope you are still finding time to feed your soul with a little paper and ink....Be Awesome!  TTFN, Jane

Angel Choir

{jane bosi}  Happy Thursday, Junkies!!  With the holidays just about upon us, I'm starting to focus on Christmas cards.  While I like the traditional holy family images, it's always fun to step outside of the box with more non traditional images and colors.  It's a nice stretch of creativity!

Today, I have two cards to share that feature the beautiful Angel Choir image.  This is a great image to color!  Or, if you aren't feeling like a lot of coloring, spotlighting is a great technique that can highlight a few of the beautiful cherub like faces:

I also added the beautiful "Merry Christmas 2" sentiment--I just love the script of the font--so delicate!

That's all for me today.  Make your today awesome--Jane

Black and White

{jane bosi}  Happy Thursday, Junkies!!  I have a simple heat embossed card to share today that features a beautiful image called Flourished Floral.

I often find inspiration, like lots of you, on Pinterest.  Years ago, when I saw a project that I loved, I searched diligently to obtain the exact product used so I could completely copy the whole thing.  After many years of hoarding.......collecting, inspiration happens differently and I am always delighted when I am already set to go!  I love making the most of what I already have.  It's one of the reasons I have loved Technique Junkies for so long!

I embossed both the Flourished Floral image and the So Sweet sentiment using white pigment ink and white embossing powder.  When embossing on black, I am always certain to use my embossing buddy to reduce random areas of powder cling---I hate that messy speckled look!

Once the embossing cooled, I was able to add some multi-colored gems and mat and mount the image piece.  It's really a striking card, in real life!!  You should totally give it a whirl!!

 By the way, the Technique Junkie CD's are the perfect addition to your stamping stash.  The tutorials found on each CD provide you with lots of inspiration and new ways to use the products you already own.  Definitely check them out!!  Use coupon code  techniques at checkout to receive a 25% discount on all CDs!!  Isn't that awesome?

TTFN, Jane

Your Heart.....

{jane bosi}  Happy Thursday, Junkies!!!  I completely adore the sentiment found on this image and often find myself drawn to use it! 

For my project today, I had wanted to use a Tape Texture technique for some added dimension and interest on my card well, project because when I started, I had no idea what was going to happen!  Who else works like that? 

I started with a precut tag and some masking tape.  After covering the tag with randomly sized bits of tape, I applied gesso to the whole thing.  When the gesso was completely dry, I added various distress inks to colorize and highlight the texture added by the tape.  I added my stamped image, Old Friend, over the top and let it dry completely.  When I got around to using the tag, I decided on a card, adding some extra hot pink ink (Pink Carmine, Faber Castell PITT pen, to be specific) around the edges to tie it to the base cardstock a bit more. 

My background is Sea Waves, which I stamped several times and then cut apart into the three panels.  The scattering a sequins was the finishing touch and really seemed to pull the whole piece together. 

Have a great day, and don't forget to be awesome!  TTFN, Jane

Lots of Buzz....

{jane bosi}  Hello, Junkies!!!  That's right!  Lots of buzz is being generated at Technique Junkie stamps!  Today, my project features the Botanical Bee set and tutorial from the Sensational Stencils CD!

The tutorial is called Pasted Dylusions.  I chose a stencil of  hexagonal shapes to add to the bee theme of the card--I think it is very hivey looking :)  After allowing the paste to set, I used three different shades of yellow and orange to create the colorful background.  Once that was finished, I added some Vintage Photo distress ink to highlight the stencil shapes.  I love this technique for the extra dimension and color it adds to any project.

I'm sure you can tell that the bee in this set is HUGE!!!  I surely would not want to meet him in real life, but he is perfect for this card along with the witty saying!  And, just in case you do not yet have a bunch of stencils (like some people I know.....) to use with this fabulous CD, Technique Junkies has some super cool ones for you to grab!  They ARE generating lots of buzz.................

TTFN, Jane

Serenity

{jane bosi}

It's Thursday and, who couldn't use a little Serenity....now?  LOL!!  Always such a good joke!  I was in a bit of a water color phase and made this water colored splattered background piece.  I was also in the mood for playing around with some of the new distress inks--coral, pistachio and lagoon--such pretty colors!

I chose the Serenity Butterfly stamp to create both a back ground pattern and embellishment to finish things off.

Yes.  I'm still in my sequin phase.  #itsnotgoingtoendanytimesoon

TTFN & Don't forget to be awesome!  Jane 

Forever And A Day.....

{jane bosi}
Happy Thursday, Junkies!!  I have a romantic grungy resist card to share today!  Before I get started, just remember that all of the June Release Stamps are on SALE until Monday!!  Get them while it's hot!!

I created a resist by stamping the beautiful and romantic Cottage Rose stamp with white ink and embossing powder.  I added watercolors to the rose and leaf images.  Later, I stamped the French Script in the open areas and then added to the grungy look by sponging in an earthy colored ink.  A little lace and the heart warming sentiment, Forever and A Day finishes things off.

Give it a whirl and, don't forget to be awesome!  TTFN, Jane

Sand Dollars

{jane bosi}  Happy Thursday, Junkies!!!  I'm happy to share a colorful collection of cards I made, just goofin' around!  

As I sat down to play, I knew I wanted to use this beautiful Sand Dollar background.  But, I wanted color!  Inspired by this image, randomly found online somewhere....

I pulled out the tried and true Non-stick Color technique and got on it!  The two earth tone prints are from the same application of ink. Specifically, I was using Ranger Ink Distress Stains.  The two blue cards vary in that I used the stains directly to the stamp surface.  One also has a spray of water to blend the inks--the other is just straight ink to stamp to paper...Can you tell the difference?

Finally, I took all of this:

Added: Love You Circle, You Make Me Proud, Be Silly and Forever and A Day to come up with this:

Be inspired by color!  Try your hand and use the Yahoo group to show us what you've come up with!  Or, use the comment section to link to your own creation!  I can't wait to see your work!

Don't forget to be awesome!  TTFN, Jane

Just Chickin' In....

{jane bosi}
Happy Thursday, Junkies!!  I'm chickin' in with this fun and colorful card today :)  The design team has been busy showcasing the May release stamps since our fabulous Hop last week!  Don't forget, you can SAVE on all of the May release images for just a little while longer.....don't wait, go on and get 'em!!

I created my background using an ink dip technique and some Distress Inks (by Ranger).  I wanted a turquoise color in my background---I love turquoise with red and yellow--but, sadly, distress inks don't come in a true turquoise color.....enter, ink dip!  I was able to combine Salty Ocean and Peacock Feathers on my craft sheet along with Barn Door and Mustard Seed....waaaaahhhlaaaa!

And, it was all focused on the fun banner card stock.  I've been hoarding this scrap of red cardstock with flocked polka dots for about 5 years.  It's such a beautiful piece of paper, I couldn't use it on JUST anything.....who feels me?

I love this campy little Chicken image.  I've combined with with the Forever and A Day sentiment to finish things off.  I'm really loving the newly released sentiments.  They are so fresh and unlike anything else I have in my stash.

That's it for today, have a great, inky day and, don't forget to be awesome!
TTFN, Jane

Life Is a Roller Coaster....

{jane bosi}

Happy Thursday, Junkies!!  I am excited to share a new image with you today!!  When I received it, I actually giggled with joy and then, nodded my head in complete agreement!  Life is like a roller coaster!  Are you screaming or throwing your hands up in the air?  I admit, I do both!  LOL!

When I'm creating, though, my hands are up and enjoying the ride!  I started this project with a background technique found on the Bodacious Backgrounds CD.  This one is called It Takes Two--it's a fun and quick tutorial that leads to an interesting outcome!  You can view all of the backgrounds, plus find the CD link, in the Technique Junkie store or right here.

To create the illusion of movement, I stamped the Roller Coaster image three times without inking between.  Later, I used markers and sponged ink to fill in the white spaces.

That's it for today!  Thanks for stopping by--now, go get yourself inky!
TTFN and don't forget to be awesome!  Jane

Butterfly Canvas

{jane bosi}  Happy Thursday, Junkies!!  Today, I am sharing a canvas I created using some goodies from Technique Junkies!

I had purchased a package of these sweet little 4 x 4 canvases a while ago.  I wasn't sure what I was going to do with them, until I realized that they are perfectly sized for use with the beautiful Palettini background images!  I've chosen the Vintage Botanicals Collage for mine, but am a little obsessed with making a set and also using Vintage Bicycle Collage, Vintage Balloons Collage and Vintage Daisy Collage or Vintage Ship Collage!  Wouldn't that be a sweet wall collection?

I always use a combination of acrylic paint and gellatos to add color and shading on my canvas work.  For this one, I've also added a dusting of glitter glue to several areas.  The butterfly is colored and glittered on the first layer. I also added a vellum butterfly over the top to simulate the fluttery beauty of these amazing creatures!

Enjoy and have an inky day!  Don't forget to be awesome!
TTFN, Jane

Be Inspired

{jane bosi}
I'm still riding the wave of inspiration from the Welcome Hop yesterday!!  We have such a great team of talented artists.....if'n I do say so, m'self!  LOL!!

Today, I have two additional projects to share.  Both showcase new releases from Technique Junkies.  The first, is shown above.  For my background, I used the Alcohol Stencil technique from the Sensational Stencil CD.  My muted earthy colors are the perfect backdrop for Bird and Butterflies.  Using Stazon ink, I stamped the image on vellum and colored it on the opposite side.  I have such a conflict when it comes to creating background pieces!  I never want to cover them up!

I'm partial to giraffe images and I just love this new one! Giraffes and a great message---Stand Tall couldn't be more perfect!  For this background, I use a technique from the Simple and Easy Inking Techniques Remix CD.  This is a great CD that is perfect for any level of stamper!  The technique used here is called It Takes Two.  My two are Lipstick Kisses  and  Burlap.  For embellishments, I continued the earthy feel with a piece of canvas, twine and some wooden buttons.

If you missed the hop, please take some time to meet the Designers and see their work using lots of new goodies!

Go, be awesome!
TTFN, Jane

Washi, Washi

{jane bosi}
Happy Thursday, Junkies!!  I've got a little gift set--box and card--to share this morning!  I'm hoping to inspire some craftiness!  This great project from the Washi  Tape + Ribbons CD is perfect for garnishing your Easter table and a ton of other special occasions!

I've chosen the Rolling Washi Box tutorial for part of my project.  Although birthday themed, here, it would be the perfect WOW! filled with candy at each place setting for your Easter table.

Above you see the box open.  Just enough space for some jelly beans, chocolate eggs and a few more sweet treats!

My card is a quick and simple one using the Washi Words tutorial.  I've also used one of my favorite go to sets from Technique Junkie stamps, Simple Sentiments, Set 1a (#SS01a).

What's on your crafty agenda today?  Don't forget to be awesome!
TTFN, Jane

Altered

{jane bosi}

Altered.  Think on it.  Read the verse.  Dwell.

I loved this verse and image from first sight so, it was natural for me to combine them into my project for today!

She is Let's Face It 2 found in the Palettini Backgrounds currently on the website.  I'm linking, but you do need to scroll down....a little bird has told me that in just a little bit, the TJ store will be getting a facelift!  I'm so excited!!  Be sure to watch closely for more information--you don't want to miss anything!

The verse is called Everything She Touches (#SD352) and reads:

"She alters everything she touches....and everything she touches alters her."

Isn't that just the truth??  We change things for others and are also changed!  This sentiment resonates with me so strongly!

All this stampy goodness is anchored to my background technique piece.  Working from the Artistic Effects CD and the Goosed Stains tutorial, I created a colorful, sparkly background.  The background stamp, also used, is called Leaf Repeat (#S608).  The sparkle comes from my use of a metallic stain, in addition to the several colors.  This is a great technique!  I encourage each of you to get out your goodies and give it a whirl!

Don't forget to be awesome!  TTFN,
Jane

Be Kind.....

{jane bosi}

Happy Thursday Junkies!!  Today, I have a springy card to share with you!  It actually fits the weather we have been having for a change!  It's all fluttery and bright!

I adore this Palettini background image, called Vintage Botanicals Collage!  It's so delicate and frilly!
It was the perfect image to combine with the Stained Resist technique from the Artistic Effects CD.  You can learn more about this CD and all that it contains, HERE .

To finish off my project, I didn't want to cover up any of the technique piece so, I went with a simple sentiment from Technique Junkies and a sheer ribbon.

I hope you are inspired to get a little inky today!
TTFN, Jane

A Little Birthday Wish.......

{Jane Bosi}

Happy Thursday!  Today, I have a fun technique to share with you!  Recently, I pulled out my Artistic Effects CD--what a great one it is!!  The technique I'm show casing today is called Goosed Gelatos.  I LOVE THIS TECHNIQUE!!  Sorry for shouting, but WOW!  what colorful and interesting backgrounds this technique produces!

I own the big 28 colored Mix & Match Gelato gift set.  It looks like this:

I adore it and it gives me soooo many choices!!  For this project, I used Lavendar, Cotton Candy, Bubble Gum, Pistachio and Grape.

After my amazing background dried, I finished it off with some card stock candles and a few fun Technique Junkie Stamps.  You'll find A Little Birthday Wish (#SD398) and Make A Tree Set (#SS014) in the Technique Junkie Stamp store!

Go on now!! Pull out that CD and give it a go!
Don't forget to be awesome!  TTFN, Jane