How to use this concept on your cards
There was a trend for abstract artists in the 1930’s and 40’s to use color blocking in their work. Creating square areas of mostly bold colors and arranging them on the canvas became quite popular. In fact by the 1960’s the designs spread to fashion.
Although the trend began with squares, the concept evolved to other shapes or large areas of color. Read more about the history of color blocking in fashion here.
These are my cards inspired by color blocking, beginning with similar colors as above, but then expanding into designer series paper and embossed areas.
Pacific Point, Daffodil Delight Dies: Stitched Blooms
Many Messages stamp and die, Tailored Tag punch.
The cards below also use the color blocking idea, but instead of solid colored cardstock, I used the Friendly Hello DSP which you can get FREE with Stampin’ UP! during Sale-A-Bration, Jan 0 Feb 2022. It coordinates with the Friendly Hello Stamp set (not used on these cards). Basic White and Basic Black cardstock are used on all, as well as Memento Black ink. See specific products under each photo.
and die, Black Matte Dots
Take color blocking to another level by using a different embossing folder on each block! Here I have used Basic White cardstock that I colored with my blending brushes and So Saffron and Mango Melody inks. I did that BEFORE I cut it into pieces. Then I ran each piece through a different embossing folder. Materials used are: Basic White and Gray Granite cardstock. Die is from Harvest Dies and sentiment is from Many Messages stamp and die. Embossing folders L-R clockwise are: Pretty Flowers, Macrame, Greenery and Timeworn Type.
Measurements & Instructions:
- Card Base: 8-1/2″ x 5-1/2″, scored at 4-1/4″
- Top layer (DSP or colored cardstock): start with 5″ x 3-3/4″
- Cut vertically at 1-1/4″, rotate 90 degrees and cut again at 1-1/4″ (you will then have two pieces, 1-1/4″ square and 1-1/4″ x 3-3/4″)
- Cut the remaining 5″ length at 3″. (you will then have two pieces, 3″ x 2-1/2″ and 2″ x 2-1/2″)
- Matte Layer: start with 5-1/4″ x 4″
- The matte for each block will be 1/8″ larger than the top layer (1/16″ on each side)
- Cut vertically at 1-3/8″, Rotate 90 degrees and cut again at 1-3/8″ (you will then have two pieces, 1-3/8″ square and 1-3/8″ x 3-7/8″)
- Cut the 5-1/4″ length at 3-1/8″ (you will then have two pieces, 3-1/8″ x 2-5/8″ and 2-1/8″ x 2-5/8″)
- Adhere your top layers to the matte layers. Decide on the arrangement of the blocks and adhere them to your card.
- Add sentiment, punch or die cut, and/or embellishments.
IF you don’t already have a demonstrator, I would love to be yours and help you with your order. Click HERE to shop through my online store and reach out if you have any questions.
i LEFT A CCOMMENT AND DIDN’T FINISH BECAUSE I SEEMED TO BE LOCKED INTO CAPITAL LETTERS! IT APPEARS THAT i STILL AM. i HOPE EVERYONE NOTICED, IN THE LAST EXAMPLE WITH THE YELLOW, AND THE SPRIG OF LEAVES, THAT EACH BLOCK HAD A DIFFERENT EMBOSSING FOLDER USED ON IT. A GREAT IDEA AND NICE LOOK! SORRY FOR THE SCREAMING….lol
i love the color blocking!
i really appreciate the beauty of your cards, but i also appreciate the history of an art style or movement. you are not only training us to create cards but educating us as well by offering history. i live in the liberty road area of Baltimore and would like to become one of your demonstrators.
I just found you, on Facebook, and subscribed. So many beautiful cards!!
Wonderful cards! Shared
Love the idea. Especially the black with colored elements. To me has a rich look to it. I make oodles of birthday cards. Each CHURCH member receives one and these could could be for men or ladies…different elements but the same concept. Cool. I enjoy watching your YouTube channel.