caardvarks challenge: Depth Perception

The current challenge at caardvarks is Depth Perception! We are asked to create a paper crafting project that is 3D, whether a card, gift wrapping, home decor -- anything goes!

[You can skip the story and just look at the pictures... it is a little lengthy.]

My project this week is inspired by my Gram (she's really my GIL, but like my own Gram in many ways). She told once told me this story: Who's Packing Your Parachute [adapted from this website]? Captain Charles Plumb was a US Navy jet pilot during the Vietnam War. On a mission, his plane was shot down, he ejected from his jet and fell into enemy hands. He survived imprisonment for 6 years. He survived and frequently spoke about the lessons that he learned.

One day, he was approached by a strange man who said: "You're Captain Plumb!" Yet, Plumb did not recognize him. The man said, "You were shot down. I packed your parachute. I guess it worked." And Captain Plumb agreed, "If the chute didn't work, I wouldn't be here today."

Now as Captain Plumb lectures, he asks to think of those who pack our parachutes. Those who you may not say Thank You to everyday, yet who save our lives in small gestures or in big ways. When Gram told me this story, we discussed how we all need to pack each others parachutes. And thus the inspiration for this card.

I Packed Your Parachute

I made the "parachute design" by cutting out white card stock with tabs on the side (for gluing together during assembly). I made the parachute a little thicker than my note so that she could place notes, affirmations, or prayers inside of it. I covered the front and back in the polka dot patterned paper, drawing in the stitching on the borders with markers. On the reverse side, I added two pieces of ribbon to represent the straps for the parachute, and I used the same ribbon (bought for only $1 at Michaels!) to make a tab on the front pocket and the tab on the note inside. I used a matching striped pattern for the sides of the parachute and for the front panel. A few buttons details and this is ready to ship to Gram!

caardvarks: Shape Up! & Cuttlebug Challenge: Be Inspired 33

Inside:

Congratulations on your Graduation

You have brains in your head.

You have feet in your shoes.

You can steer yourself

Any direction you choose.

You're on your own.

And you know what you know.

And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go.

--Dr. Seuss, from Oh, The Places You'll Go

I made this card for a dear friend who just graduated from law school -- Congrats B, Esq!

I am also submitting it for the Shape Up challenge from caardvarks! The challenge was to think outside of the box and make a card that wasn't a square or rectangle. I also added the monogram for the Cuttlebug Challenge [my first one!] Be Inspired #33 -- Monograms, which adds a personal touch for a nice sentiment.

I made the tassel from some yarn (making it up as I went), and used a brad plus a Glue Dot to make sure that it was securely attached. The papers are from Target's Dollar Zone (a great place to find inexpensive supplies). The "B" was made in Word. All in all, a colorful yet still masculine way to celebrate such a great accomplishment.

caardvarks & 2S4Y Challenges

I LOVE particpating in challenges... especially the two from caardvarks and 2 Sketches for You.  This card was inspired by the "Don't Quote Me, But..." caardvarks challenge, and Kazan's Sketch # 26.

I attempted to add depth and details to this project.  I really spent time planning it all out, and tried with each item to add an extra layer or an embellishment.  I'm really proud of the final product!

Trees A Crowd & Laura #24

Now in the spirit of challenges, I made this card for the caardvarks Trees A Crowd challenge, as well as the 2 Sketches for You -- Laura's #24.  This is my first sketch suggest card, and I'm still trying to figure out exactly how to use the sketch as a template, but not be so limited as to my interpretation.  So much to learn.

Sadly,  I am desperately feeling a shortage of supplies without the stamps and Sissix that I had in Pittsburgh.  Definitely things to add to my birthday wish list -- besides the whole passing the boards thing.

caardvarks - Fantasy Challenge

Jack and the Dream-stalk

This is my first ever caardvarks submission!  While I'm still a novice in card making, I was really excited to finally try my hand at the always inspiring challenges provided by the talented and creative caardvarks!  This challenge was Fantasy.