Stretch the Sketch...H2H Challenge

The assignment at the Heart2Heart Challenge blog this week was to use this sketch:

I thought the framed rectangle on the sketch looked like a perfect "photo-well" so I decided to create a lay-out vs. a card this time. It is sized at 8"x10" inches, to fit into a standard photo-frame.

Details, details:  I had just received my CTMH "Avonlea" paper pack, and used that to create a patchwork of fish-tail banners as the diagonal element. Those papers look so textural, almost like fabric, which suggested the idea of adding some machine-stitching. I had a variegated green/brown thread already on the machine, from my latest quilting project (which WILL get completed and posted here ONE of these days...) which matched the paper very nicely.  Also added a few cross-stitches with embroidery floss. Here is a close up of some of the stitching:

My husband and I both had big, round-number birthdays this year, as well as celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary (the photo was taken at his birthday dinner), so the "congratulation" stamp with the big C (initial of both our names) seemed appropriate. It also nicely echoed the rosette design on the Avonlea paper. I added some pleated black tulle ribbon and a lace flower and button, in keeping with the vintage look of the paper, to fulfill the circle element of the sketch. I didn't have an ink pad which perfectly matched the colours of the background paper, so I inked my stamp with Juniper ink, then lightly touched it to the Slate ink, to "grey" down the colour, before stamping.

This sketch challenge is open to all paper-crafters, and runs through the end of September, plenty of time to dream up a card, lay-out or other item. Simply include some Close to My Heart product amongst your supplies, and link up your creation to: Heart2Heart Challenges. Can't wait to see your projects!

Happy crafting,
Caroline

CTMH Supplies:
Avonlea paper pack
Chocolate, Avonlea White and Slate card-stock
Chocolate, Juniper and Slate ink-pads
2" scallop circle punch
Bohemian assortment (lace flower and silver button)
Black tulle ribbon
Piercing tools

Other supplies:
Signo white gel pen
Organdy ribbon, JoAnn's
Sewing machine and King Tut variegated thread
DSM embroidery floss