Sometimes we look at a card and say, “Wow! I really like that!” but we stop there and don’t really ask WHY we like it so much. That’s why I started a string of posts I call “Five Things I Like…” so I can share my thoughts about cards (that aren’t mine) that I really, really like. It’s been a minute (that’s Southern for “It’s been a long time”) since my last episode of “Five Things I Like”. Maybe I’ve had so many things to like…or maybe yesterday’s pre-birthday celebration got me in the giving spirit. Either way, I have a wonderful card to share with you. AND I’ve decided to challenge myself to narrow down the things I love (it’s really easy to list off five things – it’s much more difficult to narrow it down to three). From here out, it’ll be “Three Things I Like…”
In the last round of One-for-One swaps, Traci Davis included this lovely card as a “thank you” for hosting the swap. I received beautiful thank you cards from several of you (we card crafters will come up with almost any reason to make a card, huh?), but this one really stands out to me. Below, I share 5 things I really like about Traci’s card. 
Friendship Preserves is one of the first stamp sets I ordered from the Holiday Catalog, but I haven’t used it as much as I should have. In my mind, this is a Fall-only stamp set because it’s featured in that section of the catalog, but this is a perfect “Thank you” for any season. Luckily, I am inspired by Traci’s creation to pull out that set and get to work. This one is being carried over to the Spring catalog.
And now for my three favorite things I like about this card:
- Festival of Prints DSP Stack. I’ve said it over and over and over (to the point that you might think it’s the only thing I can say) – I love this paper stack from the Holiday Catalog. One side features Cherry Cobbler and Christmas-y colors. The other side features less Holiday-ish colors and patterns. I love that Traci boldly used the Christmas-y pattern for a decidely non-Christams-y card. It really showcases the flexibility of the paper. Only a couple more weeks for you to order a couple of packs of this paper. Let’s figure out a way to get some of this paper into your hands – PRONTO.
- Paper Piercing. I love the impact of the paper piercing on this card. Just like she did with the stamp set choice, Traci reminds me that I don’t use my paper piercing enough. Is she in my head? What a great addition the paper piercing makes to this card. I absolutely love it. Did I mention I love it? Did I mention I need to do more of it?
- Texture. Oh, Traci doesn’t just stop with the paper piercing. She adds beautiful texture to the banner across the bottom by running it through the Big Shot with an embossing folder. She adds yet another element of texture with the scallop border. The MOST texture, though, is added with the the three strings of linen thread. In real life, I just had to run my finger over the thread. Even tried it with the photograph.
Stamp sets: Friendship Preserves Inks: Cherry Cobbler Papers: Cherry Cobbler, Soft Suede, Very Vanilla, Festival of Prints Designer Series Paper Stack Accessories: Window Frames Framelits, Festive Paper-Piercing Pack, Scallop Border Punch, Houndstooth Textured Embossing Folder, Linen Thread, Stampin’ Dimensionals
Thanks, Traci, for such a beautiful and inspiring card. Please let her know how much you love her card, too.
Brian
Don’t forget about this week’s BLOG CANDY! All I want for my birthday is 400 comments on my blog. Just click on the picture of candy to bounce on over to Monday’s post to leave another comment. I really want you to win, so please leave MORE comments.
Beautiful Card!
It’s a winner for sure! Love the layout, color selections and Texture!!
I love this card too. Now I know why! Thanks!!
Brian, I love the colors of this card but that paper piercing takes it to another dimension. This tool is a must have, there is something about those little holes that add just that little extra touch to make a card complete. The linen thread is another perfect touch.
How many comments so far for the delicious blog candy????? I was going to get that trimmer but I think I will wait just bit to see if I get lucky. Thank you for the chance to win.
I like this card too….my eyes go to that plaid paper …I have this paper pack and that pattern is one of my favorites . Which reminds me that in my library of background stamps I have SU`s retired (probably 5 years or more ago ) Flannel Plaid background stamp . I used it a lot because I love the coziness and different look of it . AND how thoughtful you are Traci !!! The paper piercing template is one of my new items that hasn`t gotten used yet …. maybe this week end …I do like the look …it adds to the total presentation . later …..
Well done Traci! I love the elements you used and the linen thread is just the perfect way to top it off! Also, great job of showing off the fine art of paper piercing, it fits perfectly with this card!
Elegant with a country look also. Very nice Traci!
You are too sweet Brian! I’m glad you like the card.
Happy Stampin’!
Brian, I love the idea of taking us through a card design and sharing your favorite parts!
And, Traci, I do love your card … Perfect paper choice with the plaid! Your layers and textures go perfectly with it – those of us in the frozen north know what layering is all about (I had 4 layers on last night when we had a night meeting of our townhouse association … I was even wearing a plaid shirt!).
Again, great card, Traci! Thanks, Brian 🙂
I like this card, too, and Miss Traci has some set of manners for sending a TY note ( unlike me, oops). Very nice card, Traci!!!
Thanks for reminding us to closely examine the WHY of liking a design, Brian. It helps us get better at our craft.
I really like this card and Traci is right, I don’t think any of us think about our paper piercing tool often enough. However, we cardmakers are now blessed with so very many options that it’s almost impossible to consider them all every time. Then of course, I fall into the habit of using only my favorite methods instead of thinking outside the box. I need to go through all my storage cabinets and take out things like my SU rollers which I love but never seem to use.
Gorgeous in every way! Lots of detail, but not fussy!!!!!!
: )
Absoluetely love the card!! Thanks for sharing.
This beautiful card looks like it’s easy to make, yet shows so much! Love paper-piercing, I don’t do it enough. I also love the colors and that wonderful plaid!
Love the colors together! Reminds me of a dress I wore in grade school, back in the day. Can’t go wrong with plaid!! I appreciate the dimensional aspect, too…great job Traci…
I am new to card making, but I do love it. It’s great to make a card just for that special person.
I must say I truely enjoy and appriciate your site. It’s obvious you love if too. So, thank you and Happy Birthday
What a beautiful card. And Happy Birthday to you, Brian. I am glad to contribute toward your goal of reaching 400 comments. Thanks for the opportunity to give ME a gift for YOUR birthday. 🙂
Happy Birthday, Brian!!! I hope you have a fantabulous day that is full of goodies! This is a great card…I love the paper piercing. Love watching your posts, keep them coming!
Have to agree with all of your points and to add one more…I love plaid papers so that alone wins me over!!!