I recently happened upon a blog called Dare U 2 Digi Stamp that issues card sketch challenges with the use of digital stamps. I am really liking the idea of digital stamps since moving to Italy, because all my supplies were left in the USA. It’s costly to buy the physical stamps at craft and hobby shops, no matter how lovely they might be. You keep wanting more and suddenly you’ve spent a fortune! I’m definitely very careful when it comes to buying stamps now, only purchasing those I really really want. However, it seems really sad when you see everyone’s wonderful creations because they get monthly kits and new stamps all the time.
Digital stamps to the rescue! Not only are they way more affordable when it comes to purchasing, it’s instant gratification since you download the stamps online. What are digital stamps? Seems like they are just digital files that you can print out yourself. Certain effects cannot be realized, but I think digital stamps can really help your budget general and opens the door to creativity. You can create your own, draw designs, use clip arts…the possibilities are endless.
The latest sketch is from Challenge 5 at Dare U 2 Digi Stamp and I created my card using leftover papers from my wedding menus. I used a free public domain image of lilac flowers found on karenswhimsy.com and used some watercolor to create the circle papers. I think it turned out nicely given the reuse of materials. I hope to get better and learn more as time goes on.
Public domain images are great to use and Cornell.edu provides a guide for quick reference of when something goes into the public domain. I like using the list of stories and characters from pdimages.com as a nice reference if you want to use verses and text in designs copyright-free.
This whole topic brings me into new territory, but it’s great to know there are so many design elements out there ready to use. Even a frugal crafter or someone lacking the accesibility to many supplies and embellishments can create wonderful cards. Of course, it’s always nice to create your own imagery and buy some really cute irrestible supplies every so often as well. I think I want to try my hand at designing digital stamps though…maybe one day I can make my designs into real rubber stamps!
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5 Comments
That looks great! The girls buying the kits and stamps have nothing on you!
Lindsay
That looks very nice and love your coloring.
Love the way you have used recycled elements on this card. Your water colour effects are superb. Thanks for joining us with this weeks ‘Dare’
Sandra x
This looks great – thanks for joining the DU2DS Challenge this week!
A gorgeous card and such a pretty lilac image! I love how your created your circles with watercolour, the effect is lovely. Glad you could join us at DU2DS this week. Chris