I have a little formula for my card sets. I think that sometimes it is easy to get overwhelmed by a large stash of supplies. I limit my supply list which allows time and space for creativity to take over. I can usually do a set of cards in about two hours. Here's my formula:
1. One package of embellishments - I start with one package of dimensional embellishments or one sheet of vintage images. This way, I focus on a certain color scheme and theme. I love K and Company embellishments because they generally fit my taste and the dimensional embellishments give the project detail and depth. When I purchase a package of embellishments, I always make sure that there are 6-12 embellishments minimum.
2. Six sheets of 12 x 12 coordinating patterned paper - I love mixing and matching patterned paper. I find it so much more interesting than plain cardstock, especially for stamping. I find areas of the patterned paper that have a smaller pattern or even just a mottled or faint pattern and stamp in these areas. It gives the project a more collage like feel and makes the stamped image more interesting.
3. Cream or White Cardstock - I prefer to use only cream on white cardstock for the base of the cards. I think that when you use darker cardstock the sentiment on the inside gets a little lost. One sheet of 12 x 12 cardstock will make (8) 3 x 3 mini cards.
4. Three types of coordinating ribbon - Many times you can find coordinating ribbon in packages all ready to go. If I am making a set of (12) mini cards or a set of (6) 5 x 7 cards, the math works out perfect to use each ribbon on two to three different cards.
5. Two ink pads - Hands down my favorite ink is Colorbox. I love, love, love it. I have Colorbox ink pads that are over 5 years old that continue to dutifully serve my art projects. I choose a lighter ink for edging and distressing and a darker coordinating ink for stamping images.
6. General must haves - I almost always use the following things in every paper crafting project that I do. I keep each of the items close by or in their own box and pull the box out and keep it on the table as I work.
sewing machine (to add stitches and texture)
punches (I stick with the basics, scalloped ovals, postage stamps, flowers)
adhesive pearls (my absolute favorite supply)
silk flowers (I am always on the look out for beautifully died hydrangeas and small silk roses)
decorative brads and embellished stick pins (the perfect little bling)
stamps (I stick with postmarks and swirls, I find they are the perfect little touch of detail for so many projects)
glitter or glitter glue (every project must have sparkle)
Of course there are hundreds of more supplies and tools that you can use but the point is to limit your choices so that you spend the time being creative instead of digging stuff out, stressing over the options and then cleaning up a huge mess.
Before I get started on my project, I always like to start with a freshly cleaned work area. Nothing left over from the last project that I might feel obliged to use. Fresh, clean zen for new ideas. A little classic rock always adds to ramping up the mojo.
I then pull out my embellishment package or image sheet, the coordinating papers, ribbon, ink and embellishments. I cut all of my cardstock and then cut my paper into the appropriate background size for the size card I'm making. This way as I tear and cut the backgrounds, I can use the extra pieces on the next card and they will already be the appropriatee width for layering. Then I start tearing, sewing, inking, stamping, gluing and glittering until my eyeballs pop out. I leave my workroom covered in glitter with my fingers sticking together, a ruined manicure and eyeglasses that I can barely see through, but a few boxes of lovely cards and a happy heart. My latest set:
