040616 CKC April Challenge #1

Shabby Chic Techniques

Challenge #1: Choose a 'shabby chic' technique or two to incorporate into a project - stamping, layering, distressing, inking, etc.

I collected quite a few "shabby chic" images 

for inspiration and these made the cut for this page.

I loved the richness of the dark wood, the crusty wall & one

of my papers has the look of that rose strewn bedding.

I used the 7 Gypsies chipboard alphas for the word "Spring" (I did re-cover some with my own papers) 

and the ancient Little Yellow Bicycle "hello" clear word sticker to create my title.

I added a good bit of Dylusions white mist on the rose paper to tone down both the 

saturation of the colors & the dark dingy color of the  background stripes.

 My magenta butterfly didn't make it to the kit reveal photo shoot but I knew I had it in my stash!

The Leaky Shed Studio chipboard swirly floral element turned out great with a drybrush whitewash 

& a gentle spritz of Heidi Swapp Black Velvet Color Shine to mimic flyspecks.

I really worked that rose paper over - creasing, tearing, crumpling & then distressing the edges.

You may notice the tiny yet perfect snail in this portion of my photo.

That was a delightful surprise when I did my edit & crop!

This is a rather extreme close-up & it was not discernible on the camera screen. 

I love how the dark wood frame is a great counterpoint to all of the light & airy elements.

That Felicity Jane exclusive paper plus the white plank second background were add-ons

to my kit, as all of my papers were only 8x8" and I knew I would be needing backgrounds.

I used to try to force my kit to provide everything but ended up with pages I didn't love
so now I stash dive as needed & am much more satisfied with my finished pieces.

I always do at least one springtime garden shot layout.

Here in Michigan it is a highly anticipated event & worth marking.

The gorgeous color in my tiny scilla blossom doesn't strike 

a wrong note as Shabby Chic style can be amazingly neutral
and often uses organic forms in its designs.

So take on the challenge!

Find your own niche in the wide range of shabby chicness
and add it to the Linky so we can leave you some love.

Thanks for stopping by!