Cheers to You

Today, we'll be looking at using a coffee filter and sponges to create a neat effect.  I saw this used on a card and just had to try it.  I'll look for the link again and share it here so you can see the card that inspired me.  I thought it was on the Mojo Monday blog but can't find it so maybe it was a Splitcoast Stampers sketch challenge..  I know I have it written out at home.  I'll update it this weekend.

Materials:
Stampin' Up! Ink:  Crumb Cake, Cherry Cobbler, Pacific Point, Pumpkin Pie
Stampin' Up! Paper:  Cherry Cobbler, Soft Suede, Very VAnilla
Stampin' Up! Accessories:  Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding
Misc:  coffee filter, sponges

First, take out a coffee filter.  (duh!)  You can either cut it to size first or last.  I prefer to do the technique first and then cut it.  It's more work but then I cut use the section of the filter that I want.  Always cut your filter an inch bigger than needed.  You'll be wrapping it around scrap cardstock to give it some strength.  However, adding it without a base looks really cool too.

Start by sponging the lightest color all over the filter.  Don't worry about trying to make it even.  Then, sponge using the next lightest, leaving some of the first color showing through.  Repeat with as many colors as you want.

Now, crumple and uncrumple your coffee filter.

Take your darkest ink (or another color) and lightly brush against the wrinkles.  You just want the wronkles to be brought out.

Cut (if needed) and wrap around the scrap paper to give it strength.  I use double sided tape to attach.

The Ribbon
Isn't this the coolest ribbon?  I saw this on someone else's blog (will find link to it.  Sorry).  It's actually seam binding.  Cut the seam binding to be way longer (I cut this one at 15") than you need it.  You can always cut off the extra material.

Fray one edge slightly, just enough that you can grab a few of the middle threads.  Hold those threads while pulling about halfway down the seam binding.  It will start to bunch up.  Work you way back up the seam binding until you have the ruffled effect.  Once you're happy with this side (it can be adjusted as needed), switch to the other edge of the seam binding and repeat these steps.  I have better luck if I work from both ends than when I tried to work only from the one edge.

Another Sample:
I created this card with my junior high mini design class.  Actually, the sub did it since I wasn't there but this is the sample card I made for them.  This one doesn't have the scrap cardstock attached to the filter.  It just gives it a softer, wispier look (if that makes sense) IRL.