A Springtime/Easter Artist Trading Block

I really have fun with the Artist Trading Blocks using the 3D ScoreBoard XL Die. I can't wait for Spring...although it's "supposed" to be here already!

 

So using the large 3 inch block die and some really bright colors of Distress Inks, I set to work. This is my favorite size to use right now.

 

  

 I cut 6 pieces from Specialty Stamping paper about 3 1/2 inches square. You can cut them right to size if you want (2 3/8"). I just had these cut, so I used them.

 

Haul out your stash of Tissue Tapes, too. Commute  and Laboratorie are used on the Easter egg square.

 

 

Using bright colors like Mustard Seed, Squeezed Lemonade, Ripe Raspberry, Fired Brick, Peacock Feathers, Seedless Preserves, and Mowed Grass first, I randomly applied them to the paper with the Blending Tools.

 

I also added darker colors like Barn Door, Rusty Hinge, and Mahogany to the edges and Mustard Seed areas.

 

LOTS and LOTS of layers makes for a deep, rich color. This helps to create a real contrast when you "clap" some water spots on the colors and let them really soak in before blotting with a paper towel.

 

Dry with a heat tool and add your Tissue Tapes.

 

 Then comes the stamping. I used the Mini Blue Prints 2 for the main stamping with Jet Black Archival Ink.

The top has the Bird from Natures Moments with Symphony  and Market Place Tissue Tapes.

 

White Sharpie Pens are great for adding contrast as well as the little Rhinestone Flowers.

 

This little Bunny is so nice and bright with the Picked Raspberry and Seedless Preserves. The water created little spots on him.

 

I used Silver and Gold Metal Dot Stickers as well as Pearls on the squares. This side needed just a bit more of something, so I added a piece of fancy black trim.

 

All the edging stamps are from the Prima set Mixed Media Doll Stamp. It has 7 great edging stamps that are each 7 inches long. Perfect for tags and cards. I love the little flowers on this stamp.

 

I added the Laboratorie and Elements Tissue Tape here, but many are from several years past.

 

 The Natures Garden Charm Roses are perfect for their size and color. The top has a Petaloo Flower and leaf.

I used March and April from the Traveler Tissue Tape collection, and the Journeyman, and Nostalgic tapes, too, for this side.

 

I painted a wooden pedestal and added 3 kinds of Tissue Tape to set the ATB on, but I think I like it better just sitting on my bookcase all by itself.

 

I hope Spring is coming your way if you've been waiting for it here in the States. You can make this an Easter ATB of just a Springtime one.....the choice is yours!

 

Check out the links and don't forget to use my code iecain81 when ordering from Inspiration Emporium for 10% off, and always $5 shipping in the USA. Other links are to Retro Cafe Art Gallery.

 

Your Friend in ART,

 

Linda