Artist Trading Cards

Here is the video slideshow of my latest atcs. They came as a random burst of creativity-I completely let go and just went with whatever happened. I used various inking techniques and products mostly from Ranger Ink. I hope you like them.

Kenny K and Copic Markers

Here is another video using a Kenny K digistamp with Copic markers! You may read the info box at YouTube for more details. Enjoy!

Ethic Skin Tones with Copics

Here are some examples of coloring ethnic skin tones with Copic Markers. The paper I used is X-Press It Blending Card. I might add that is is very tough to blend the darker colors on this card because the ink starts to goo up if you use to much of it-in other words it does not soak into the paper but sits on top. I am in love with Hammermill Color Copy Paper for Copics but it can be thin depending on your project. However, I just purchased the cardstock version so I will be trying it soon. I hope I love it as much as the paper because I absolutely love how Copics blend on it. I will blog about this topic soon. Images in the video are by The Greeting Farm and Mo's Digital Designs.

As Promised!

Here is the card I made using the image I colored with Copics from The Greeting Farm. I decided on using green hues for this card. The drippy goo punch used is by Martha Stewart. The die cut of the gate is from the Cricut Ornamental Iron cartridge. I absolutely LOVE that cartridge!

Quick Birthday Card

I needed a quick birthday card for a little girl. Close to My Heart makes a good card program book called Wishes. I took the template from there. I always forget about my template resources! They sure work in a pinch.
The flower was sprayed with marshmalllow Glimmer Mist. You can't see the detail-it was lost in the photo. It's a nice added sparkle to the overall project. Greeting stamp by Close to My Heart.

I Would Like Ideas!

If you would like to participate in the creating of my next card, please share your response!

Kenny K Copic Card Instructions

As promised, here are the instructions to the Kenny K. card I posted last week.

First Copic Card Since Certification Class

Here is my first Copic Marker card since completing my intermediate certification class. I was greatly inspired by the funky digistamp by Kenny K. There is a link to his web site on my blog. This is the most fun I have had making a card in a long time! I love the way she's popped out with foam dots. I'm in the middle of making a step by step video on this card. Look for that soon!

First Copic Card Since Certification Class

This is the inside. Stamps by Tim Holtz.

ATC

Here is an ATC I made using mica gloss paint. I randomly applied various colors to my card base with a sponge. I stamped the image using black archival ink by Ranger. It was then embossed with clear embossing powder. I gently bent the card to produce the cracked effect. Dew Drops were added to embellish. I need to make ATCs more often. The problem is that I work intuitively-most of my time is spent thinking! But once I get an idea, I work fairly quickly.

Domino Pendant

This is a domino pendant I made using alcohol ink from Ranger. The ink was applied using a felt applicator. The sides were painted with a metallic paint pen. Rock Candy by Ranger was placed on top. I really like the effect this had on the pendant. It is protected with a glue sealant. A sterling silver bale was attached.

Copic Certification

I am pleased to announce that I completed my Copic Intermediate certification this weekend! It was taught by the wonderful Colleen Schaan, regional instructor for the Copic Marker company. I am in the process of internalizing all the great information and techniques I learned about light, shadow, and design elements. I won't be posting any Copic art soon because I want to allow myself time to practice. I am also in the process of winding down the school year. Please be patient. I will have some examples by June to share. I am in the middle of finishing up jewelry and card projects so look for those in a few days.

Nikki Nicole Mixed Media Art

Inspired by Hitchcock

I love this Tim Holtz image. When I first saw it, I was instantly reminded of the movie The Birds directed by one of my favs, Alfred Hitchcock. Alcohol ink on glossy cardstock. Image stamped using black archival ink by Ranger.

Encaustic Wax on Card

I love the randomness and freedom of this art form.

Glass Jewelry

I have been having fun creating jewelry, adding this to my one of my inking endeavors. This particular piece is made of sea glass, ultra thick embossing enamel, pearl ex powders, and fantasy film. With this type of jewelry making you never know what you might get as far as coloring. I like the way this one turned out. More jewelry and inking techniques to come!

Art Gift Tags

Are you giving an extra special gift to that certain someone? A new car? House keys? (I think big!) Then why not present it in an art tag that is also a keepsake within itself? These are handmade gift tags with envelopes attached to the backing to hold money, keys, or anything small your heart desires. Most products used are by Ranger and Tim Holtz.