Greatest Sympathies

It seems each year after the Christmas season, I seem to need more sympathy cards than usual. It is funny how seasons seem to play into it but perhaps this is the rhythm of life that our ancestors were partially referring to when that phrase was coined. Though these are sad occasions, I’m glad I can make something using my heart and hands to express my sympathy. It’s one of the beautiful things about handmade cards.

This card was made for a church friend who died unexpectedly and I wanted something that was hopeful and not too feminine. I decided to go with a plant theme with a white and lilac background. This card is entirely constructed with Stardream Metallic Crystal Cardstock. I love this cardstock for its versatility. Besides being a nice weight, it’s got a subtle glowing surface thanks to a coating of mica powder. Copic or other alcohol inks blends very nicely on the surface and the coating doesn’t come off and harm your nibs.

You can see the result of the die cutting here. These are pretty fine pieces. The cardstock cuts very cleanly.

After cutting I set about coloring all the pieces with Copic Sketch markers. You can see how nicely I was able to blend the greens and the pot colors.

I made an A2-sized base card using more Crystal cardstock. I masked the two edges of the card using washi tape and then a blending brush to apply Shaded Lilac Distress Oxide ink. I faded it out into the middle of the card to create a very soft look. The Crystal cardstock highlights the color with it’s sheen and really makes it pretty and soft.

In this closeup, you will see what appears to be tiny white flecks. That’s actually a bit of glitter-like shine and it’s so pretty to the eye. Again, it’s very subtle but noticeable and a nice touch to the card.

I completed the card by gluing the plant stand and the pots in the left corner. I used a ready made sentiment in the top corner and added the rhinestone heart charm and satin bow. A few mixed sequins adds just the right amount of shine without making it overly feminine.

Here is the finished card. I am pleased that I can give this expression of handmade sympathy to my friend’s family. Life is full of joys and sadness and it feels really good to make something special to show how much you care.