Why did I choose Spectrum Noir?

Why did I choose Spectrum Noir? 

Honestly, because I still had a small collection! When I first started coloring with alcohol markers, many years ago, I thought Copic was the way to go. As I collected the many shades, I found I often was missing a lighter or darker shade of a color I really needed to complete a project. I then explored Spectrum Noir and learned how to use them too.

(I then got wrapped up in the Stampin' Up! world)

So I pulled out my Spectrum Noir box and gave them a try!I was pleased to see that they were still aok even tho it had been months since I put them in that box!

The size of Lawn Fawn images is perfect for these markers and having 3 shades in one marker makes them more affordable. I am not trying to create works of art, I am coloring my stamped images to add to my card and share a smile and warm hug with a friend.

There are lots of sets to choose from and I know it gets confusing! You can always add on too. I wanted to share what colors I have and will be using. Yes, these are Tri-Blends with a "fine bullet nib" not a brush.

The set linked here has these colors. 

Yes, I left Stampin' Up!

I have struggled over the past few years but I have finally realized that I love lots of different paper crafting products and they are not all Stampin' Up! I have tried and tried to stay on the path and follow the Stampin' Up! plan, sharing the products and building a team, but I just can't. There is nothing wrong, it is just that I like other products too.

Years ago I was advised to leave my Cricut behind and my Spectrum Noir markers should be exchanged for Stampin' Blends. To be a good demonstrator, I needed to stick with just Stampin' Up! and I did for a bit ....but I feel like I am trying to create while sitting on my hands, and it shows!

I decided to use the supplies that inspire my creativity, where ever that may lead me!

• I love anything mini and have loved the simplicity of Lawn Fawn™ stamps forever!

• I love coloring and earned certifications from both Copic™ & Spectrum Noir™ alcohol markers.

• I love using dies and stamps and Tim Holtz Distressed Inks too!

• I love my Anna Griffin™ Mini Empress die cut machine!

Guess what?  These loves are all back in my craft room!! In order to stay true to me and follow the guidelines from Stampin' Up! it is time for me to step away.

My YouTube channel  shares my card making journey and paper crafting with products I love! I am thrilled to share these with you. Please check out my channel here and click SUBSCRIBE to follow me on this quieter, simpler, still creative journey.

Hugs, Cara

Big News from Cara

I have been an online craft teacher with Cricuts, stamps and coloring for a long time and as I stepped back from Stampin' Up! I have taken some time to think.  

It is now time to "retire" from my crafting job and craft just for fun!  I love that I am crafty just like you.  I have retired my online classroom although if you have purchased classes, they are still there for you to log into.  

My days now will be spent crafting for me, spending more time with my husband at the lake and enjoying my grandchildren. I will share my projects with you on my YouTube channel and here on this sweet lil blog.  

I love lots of crafts beyond paper crafting with Cricut!  Some days I might be crocheting or knitting or trying something new.  Maybe we will do a group crop or work with an svg to create a 3D project together. Coloring my new love Lawn Fawn stamps is so relaxing.  I am honestly just taking time to breathe.