Posted by: YNS on Thursday, August 18, 2011 at 11:42 am
Hello Friends!
I’m so excited to finally introduce you to our first and only (for now) Special Event Design Team member…the super talented, hilarious and oh so smart Carole Burrage! Carole will be hijacking posting on the YNS blog the 18th day of every month – how cool is that?! If you’ve never stopped by her own personal blog Mother’s Little Helper than you are missing out on some amazing talent and ton of laughs! I was introduced to Carole’s blog well over a year ago by my sister and instantly thought to myself…’Karen, this is a gal you need to get to know’ so I stalked read her blog for many many months before ever saying anything and the moment I emailed her there was an instant connection and I’m so happy to now call her a friend and fabulous member of the YNS family. Please give her a warm welcome and be sure to leave a comment on her posts because not only will she entertain you but there will be YNS prizes up for grabs every month too!!! WHOOT WHOOT!!!
Ok so without further ado…take it away Carole!
——————-
Welcome to the very first Carole’s Creative Commotion blog post! When Karen approached me with the idea of giving me the YNS Blog for one day each month TO DO WHATEVER I WANT TO WITH IT, I leapt at this unheard-of-opportunity. Then I wondered if she was off her meds/on a bender/cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs. But who am I to look a gift horse in the mouth? If Karen wants to give me this platform and let me expound on whatever topic flits into my fool head, I’m going to accept it with gratitude.
Thanks, Karen!
Now that we’re done with the niceties, shall we get started?
Here’s what I’m thinking about today: taking ownership of and pride in your art. That’s the big theme. And, looking at the little picture: I want you to start signing the backs of your cards.
Let me explain where I’m coming from. I’ve been active in the stamping industry and online stamping community for several years now and one of the happy results of that involvement is that I’ve developed great friendships with some amazing stampers. A benefit of friendships with stampers? Happy mail! I’ve received so many gorgeous cards over the years, I could open a stamp art gallery. No joke.
But you know what drives me crazier than I accused Karen of being, earlier? When people don’t sign their work! Seriously – most of the cards I receive lack any indication of who created them. I think that’s a crying shame. Do you think Picasso or Matisse would fail to sign their work? If they did, it’d sure fetch a lot less on the open market. Think about it: anything, from art to literature to baseball cards, is worth more when it bears the artist’s signature or stamp of authenticity. If you don’t believe me, just watch an episode of Antiques Roadshow.
Now, some of you may be thinking, “Well, that’s real art. Stamping isn’t art. It’s just my little hobby…” No, no, no, no! I disagree (in case you didn’t catch my drift from the four previous ‘no’s’). By typing “What is art?” into Google, the first definition it provides is this:
The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.
I think we can all agree that creating handcrafted greeting cards out of paper, ink, and glue falls under this definition. Is stamping what some might consider ‘fine art’? Maybe not. But it’s as close as I’m going to get, and I’m proud of my small contributions towards making this world a cuter place.
Thus, I want to encourage you to embrace your art and on the back of your card, to make some sort of declaration that indicates that YOU took the time and made the effort to create the little masterpiece the recipient is fortunate enough to hold in his or her hands. Let me show you what I mean. Here’s the front of my card, using YNS’s adorable new Rainbows and Happiness set:
And here’s the back:
I made my mark using YNS’s “Stamped By…” stamp, which is on sale for less than $1.00! (Seriously, is there anything these days that costs less than a dollar?!) I love a stamp like this, and I have several that feature the copyrights of the different stamp companies whose images I use. They typically ‘fit’ with the look and feel of my card, and they let the recipient know where I got the images, in case they’re interested.
Anyway, I hope I’ve given you a little food for thought. Leave a comment and tell me if signing your cards is something you already do, will do from now on, or are opposed to and why. Let’s discuss! And just to provide you with an incentive, the oh-so-generous and lovely Karen is sponsoring a giveaway of Rainbows & Happiness and Stamped By… to one lucky commenter. Here’s a photo of the prize package for you visual learners:
Karen will announce the winner on August 25th, so that gives you a full week to give me your thoughts.
Okay, chickadees, I look forward to hearing from you. And remember to mark you calendars – we have a date on the 18th of each month!
First of all. ADORABLE CARD! I love that rainbow/clouds image! ADORABLE! ANd the multi colored faux stitching around the edges? Genius. I have never thought of doing that! What markers did you use?!
It’s funny! I have a custom stamp made just for stamping the back of my cards and I usually 9/10 forget to do it! I agree. I shouldn’t. Most of my cards go into a shoebox, but those that do receive them probably have no idea I took the time to hand make it! Agree with you 100%. So much I have placed my custom stamp on my craft table to serve as a memory. Love the cute stamp you used to sign your name on the back! I WANT IT, lol ADORABLE!!!!!!
Welcome Carole! I have a stamp that I found about 20-yrs ago, before I even started creating cards, that have my initials “RR” on it. I always place this on the back of my cards.
I’m with you 100%. We should sign the backs of our cards and I don’t do it,now that the subject has come up I will start signing the backs of my cards. I usually design a card especially for that person, with their interest or certain colors,but 10 years from now they might need my name to remember who sent it to them. Wonderful subject and I look forward to the 18th of every month. Your card is just awesome. ksbhotdog@centurylink.net
Yay Carole!!!! So glad that you’ve joined YNS….I’ll be checking in on the 18 for sure! Who wouldn’t want to hear your ramblings on a regular basis??! I wish I could see one of your cards in real life, but I think the postal service ‘ate’ the card you sent me:(:( I know, I never sign my cards, but I def agree with you that we all should! Hugs, Jenny
You are right of course- we should sign our works of art. I have many of those stamps and they sit in a drawer. But I will try to remember. Thanks for the pep talk and the chance to win:)
I’m guilty of not taking the time to do this small step, so thanks for the kick in the booty. I will try to be better:) Your card is super adorable and totally makes me smile!
First off congrats on this new venture here on YNS – Always a pleasure to see your “art work” and read your enteries. Hmmm..signing the back of cards, Interesting topic. My mom personally doesn’t like it when people sign their cards. She always covers it up with a sticker. Me I use to sign them but just stopped doing so because if you “sell” cards a lot of times people don’t want a signature on the back. So for me I’m on the fence about signing my cards. Thanks though for the “food for thought.”
Karen, thanks for the chance to win! I have to sign all of my cards since I am an artist, I feel like a little heart and soul goes into each card…and must be the makers initials at the very least. Usually I like my first name…feels more like a gift from my heart and hands!!! 🙂
Love the card and the different expressions on the clouds. I usually stamp a small image on the back of my cards and underneath that sign with my first initial, last name, and mo/yr. My cards are made for specific occasions and most recipients save them. The small image might be a “handmade” or “handstamped” expression or something that relates to the purpose or design of the card. I also add names/dates to cards or handmade items I receive if one is not already on the item. This is helpful for ‘nostalgic moments’ when you remember getting it and then recognize that “My God, that was ten years ago!”
ACK! Guilty as charged! I have been chastised for not “signing” my artwork….and by someone whose husband IS an artist!!! I think you have a good point and I will try to be more conscientious about it. Great column, I look forward to reading more of your thoughts!
I don’t know Karen… I think you have your hands full now with this Carole woman! I hear she’s nothing but trouble with a capital T! Better watch your back, lock your liquor cabinet and hide your valuables!
EXCELLENT article, SWEET Carole! I actually don’t sign the back of my cards unless they sell in my Etsy store and sometimes I find myself doing a last-second scramble to sign them when they sell and I’m preparing them for shipping. So awhile back I did tell myself that I really ought to do the signing immediately after I’m done creating. Have I done that yet? Nope! I’m a’gonna’ put up a sticky note when I get home to remind me to start doing it, ’cause Carole said so! 🙂
Awww, what a fab happy card! Yes, I always sign the back of my cards … I won a bar code stamp with my name on it aaaaages ago, so use either that or a wee sticker.
First of all, love your sweet cloudlettes and colorful rainbow card. Adorable! Second, love that you’ll be adding something very special at YNS every 18th. Third, I have a little stamp that says “created by” which I stamp and initial underneath and add the year. Who knows maybe Kathy’s 2008 cards will show up on Antique Roadshow someday and they’ll say “her best work was in 2008”–NOT! LOL Thanks for the smile today.
I agree with you 200%! I printed a small return address label that says “Handcrafted by Bridget Weed” & there is a small handprint next to it. I stick it on the back of each & every card I make. It’s the very last thing I do..sort of like my finishing touch! Many times, people don’t realize I made it until they turn it over to see where I “bought” it. Why spend 2 hours making a card & give a big chain store credit? Lol! Love your card, by the way.
I have a lovely stamp with fancy initials and my name that I stamp on the backs of my cards. Everyone should sign their cards…I’ve received some that I can’t remember who their from myself!
Now onto you…funny, witty, and charming,yes…but the Tamsters warning to Karen is right on! LOL! I love reading your posts-congrats on the new venue and have fun!!!
Oh, and your card is a cutie-love the stamp on the back 🙂
Weeeellll, first let’s just say that Karen could not have chosen a more perfect person to let “spout off” on her blog each month. Not only does the fabulous Carole Burrage provide artistic inspiration and endless humor, she provides encouragement and knowledge. Being on the receiving end of all of that special goodness from Carole personally, all I can say, “Wooooohooooo!!” Congrats YNS on scoring the most amazing gal in the stamping galexy!
Welcome to YNS Carole. I am looking forward to your “guest” day each month. As for cards, I always sign the back of mine as soon as I complete them so that I don’t forget when it comes time to mail or sell.
Heather princesspaperprojects (at) yahoo (dot) com
I always love reading what you have to say, SWEET Carole!! How fun that we can find you here on the 18th of each month too! I love your card! Best of luck in this new adventure!
I have always signed the back of my cards and have about ten different little stamps made just for that. You are correct that we should be proud of our art. Looking forward to next months article from you. Take care. Robin Barwacz
Thanks for the reminder about signing our art (cards)! I have a few personal stamps for that purpose and I sign it too. I didn’t know YNS has that cutie stamp! I will have to get one! 🙂 I enjoyed your post, Carole!
Hi Carole, Thanks for a fun and provocative post! I am in agreement with you — I feel that if you spend all that time putting a card together for someone, why not let them know you made it for them? I have a number of “Stamped by” stamps and also ordered some personalized stamps through a vendor on ebay. They were inexpensive and I could choose from a number of designs. I’m with you — I like the back to relate to the front somehow. So — one is a lovely oval with flowing swirls around it and my name in the middle, and the other is a crazy looking cat. I was even able to choose the words to go with the stamps. Let’s start to take pride in the work we do (even if we aren’t da Vinci) and sign our cards!
What a happy card! That stitching is fab! As for the back of my cards, yes, I do stamp or sign most of the time :>) Once in awhile I realize too late that I forgot to, but maybe I should start stamping the back as soon as I make the card instead of waiting for when I go to send it!
How great to see you guesting on this blog and how great that your fans (read: me) have another opportunity to enjoy your wit and talent. Thanks!!! Donna Mc
Yes I sign the back of my cards. Years ago my dad taught me to always sign my handiwork so every time I made something I always made sure at least my initials and many times the date were on the item. When I started card making I always signed the back but I have many friends who do not.
What a cute card and I was so excited to read that there was a drawing for the stamp! I’m in! I have to admit that I make a ton of stamps and rarely sign them but I’ve got cute copyright and “made by” stamps that I was thinking earlier this month that I should really be using. I make cards throughout the year, then once a year I sort who they will go to for birthday/anniv. At this time I stamp the insides and I could easily take the time at this point to add my signature to the back. Thanks for the reminder.
Yay! Miss Carole So happy for you and your new adventure! Also so happy to have yet another opportunity to catch your fun wise and witty banter here too! I couldn’t agree more ! I actually have a custom made stamp for that very purpose. So many times I have sent a very special hand made card out to a friend or family member and it’s not till they turn it over and see my stamp and initials that they realize, “Hey She made this!” LOL And your card is just Adorable! Love the sweet image and Fab stitching too!
Love this card Carole! So colourful, bright and cheerful.
I almost always stamp the backs of my cards but I sometimes forget. I got a great pack of stamps for that purpose from Verve Stamps. The sentiments are: Art from the heart of with 2 hearts, stamped with Verve, Art from the heart of with a butterfly and handmade by. I also have another one that states Created for you by…
I’m glad I read this post as I have several cards that need to have the backs stamped.
I totally agree with signing the back of cards, my problem is I want it to be a the perfect whimsical signature…but I can’t decide what that is! So I’m waiting til I figure it out!!!! Should I include my email incase someone wants to order cards? What if my email changes!!!! What if I never do and I have unsigned cards everywhere! So many decisions!
I love the little YNS for the back & the place to sign, great idea!
I would love to have something to sign on th eback of my cards and for the time being, I simply write my first name. It’s not very original but it works. I would LOVE to win this stamps set as it is sooooooooo cute!!!
Adorable card! I’ve always loved your style & sense of humor since I “met” you on the MFT board over at SCS a few years ago. I confess that I don’t sign my cards. Usually, I am lucky if I get to make a card at all. But you’re right – certainly signing a card really doesn’t take time at all. It’s just having to remember to do it. I will TRY to sign my cards from now on. 🙂
First of all. ADORABLE CARD! I love that rainbow/clouds image! ADORABLE! ANd the multi colored faux stitching around the edges? Genius. I have never thought of doing that! What markers did you use?!
It’s funny! I have a custom stamp made just for stamping the back of my cards and I usually 9/10 forget to do it! I agree. I shouldn’t. Most of my cards go into a shoebox, but those that do receive them probably have no idea I took the time to hand make it! Agree with you 100%. So much I have placed my custom stamp on my craft table to serve as a memory. Love the cute stamp you used to sign your name on the back! I WANT IT, lol ADORABLE!!!!!!
Welcome Carole! I have a stamp that I found about 20-yrs ago, before I even started creating cards, that have my initials “RR” on it. I always place this on the back of my cards.
I try to remember to sign the back of cards I created and mailed but sometimes I forgot. Will try to do it first to help me remember.
I’m with you 100%. We should sign the backs of our cards and I don’t do it,now that the subject has come up I will start signing the backs of my cards. I usually design a card especially for that person, with their interest or certain colors,but 10 years from now they might need my name to remember who sent it to them. Wonderful subject and I look forward to the 18th of every month. Your card is just awesome. ksbhotdog@centurylink.net
Yay Carole!!!! So glad that you’ve joined YNS….I’ll be checking in on the 18 for sure! Who wouldn’t want to hear your ramblings on a regular basis??! I wish I could see one of your cards in real life, but I think the postal service ‘ate’ the card you sent me:(:( I know, I never sign my cards, but I def agree with you that we all should!
Hugs, Jenny
Carole I have been following you for awhile now… Had to come over and check our your newest challenge. Love the card!
You are right of course- we should sign our works of art. I have many of those stamps and they sit in a drawer. But I will try to remember. Thanks for the pep talk and the chance to win:)
Karen Hasheck
khasheck@gmail.com
I’m guilty of not taking the time to do this small step, so thanks for the kick in the booty. I will try to be better:) Your card is super adorable and totally makes me smile!
First off congrats on this new venture here on YNS – Always a pleasure to see your “art work” and read your enteries.
Hmmm..signing the back of cards, Interesting topic. My mom personally doesn’t like it when people sign their cards. She always covers it up with a sticker.
Me I use to sign them but just stopped doing so because if you “sell” cards a lot of times people don’t want a signature on the back.
So for me I’m on the fence about signing my cards. Thanks though for the “food for thought.”
Karen, thanks for the chance to win! I have to sign all of my cards since I am an artist, I feel like a little heart and soul goes into each card…and must be the makers initials at the very least. Usually I like my first name…feels more like a gift from my heart and hands!!! 🙂
Love the card and the different expressions on the clouds. I usually stamp a small image on the back of my cards and underneath that sign with my first initial, last name, and mo/yr. My cards are made for specific occasions and most recipients save them. The small image might be a “handmade” or “handstamped” expression or something that relates to the purpose or design of the card. I also add names/dates to cards or handmade items I receive if one is not already on the item. This is helpful for ‘nostalgic moments’ when you remember getting it and then recognize that “My God, that was ten years ago!”
ACK! Guilty as charged! I have been chastised for not “signing” my artwork….and by someone whose husband IS an artist!!! I think you have a good point and I will try to be more conscientious about it. Great column, I look forward to reading more of your thoughts!
I don’t know Karen… I think you have your hands full now with this Carole woman! I hear she’s nothing but trouble with a capital T! Better watch your back, lock your liquor cabinet and hide your valuables!
EXCELLENT article, SWEET Carole! I actually don’t sign the back of my cards unless they sell in my Etsy store and sometimes I find myself doing a last-second scramble to sign them when they sell and I’m preparing them for shipping. So awhile back I did tell myself that I really ought to do the signing immediately after I’m done creating. Have I done that yet? Nope! I’m a’gonna’ put up a sticky note when I get home to remind me to start doing it, ’cause Carole said so! 🙂
Congrats Carole~
Luv your card, and the stamping of the back of all cards is such a clever idea too!
Awww, what a fab happy card!
Yes, I always sign the back of my cards … I won a bar code stamp with my name on it aaaaages ago, so use either that or a wee sticker.
First of all, love your sweet cloudlettes and colorful rainbow card. Adorable! Second, love that you’ll be adding something very special at YNS every 18th. Third, I have a little stamp that says “created by” which I stamp and initial underneath and add the year. Who knows maybe Kathy’s 2008 cards will show up on Antique Roadshow someday and they’ll say “her best work was in 2008”–NOT! LOL Thanks for the smile today.
I agree with you 200%! I printed a small return address label that says “Handcrafted by Bridget Weed” & there is a small handprint next to it. I stick it on the back of each & every card I make. It’s the very last thing I do..sort of like my finishing touch! Many times, people don’t realize I made it until they turn it over to see where I “bought” it. Why spend 2 hours making a card & give a big chain store credit? Lol! Love your card, by the way.
I have a lovely stamp with fancy initials and my name that I stamp on the backs of my cards. Everyone should sign their cards…I’ve received some that I can’t remember who their from myself!
Now onto you…funny, witty, and charming,yes…but the Tamsters warning to Karen is right on! LOL! I love reading your posts-congrats on the new venue and have fun!!!
Oh, and your card is a cutie-love the stamp on the back 🙂
Weeeellll, first let’s just say that Karen could not have chosen a more perfect person to let “spout off” on her blog each month. Not only does the fabulous Carole Burrage provide artistic inspiration and endless humor, she provides encouragement and knowledge. Being on the receiving end of all of that special goodness from Carole personally, all I can say, “Wooooohooooo!!” Congrats YNS on scoring the most amazing gal in the stamping galexy!
Welcome to YNS Carole. I am looking forward to your “guest” day each month. As for cards, I always sign the back of mine as soon as I complete them so that I don’t forget when it comes time to mail or sell.
Heather
princesspaperprojects (at) yahoo (dot) com
I always love reading what you have to say, SWEET Carole!! How fun that we can find you here on the 18th of each month too! I love your card! Best of luck in this new adventure!
Welcome Carole!
Yes I am guilty of not stamping the back of my cards but if I had a cute siggie stamp like that I bet I would be reformed!
I have always signed the back of my cards and have about ten different little stamps made just for that. You are correct that we should be proud of our art. Looking forward to next months article from you. Take care. Robin Barwacz
Thanks for the reminder about signing our art (cards)! I have a few personal stamps for that purpose and I sign it too. I didn’t know YNS has that cutie stamp! I will have to get one! 🙂 I enjoyed your post, Carole!
Hi Carole,
Thanks for a fun and provocative post! I am in agreement with you — I feel that if you spend all that time putting a card together for someone, why not let them know you made it for them? I have a number of “Stamped by” stamps and also ordered some personalized stamps through a vendor on ebay. They were inexpensive and I could choose from a number of designs. I’m with you — I like the back to relate to the front somehow. So — one is a lovely oval with flowing swirls around it and my name in the middle, and the other is a crazy looking cat. I was even able to choose the words to go with the stamps. Let’s start to take pride in the work we do (even if we aren’t da Vinci) and sign our cards!
What a happy card! That stitching is fab!
As for the back of my cards, yes, I do stamp or sign most of the time :>) Once in awhile I realize too late that I forgot to, but maybe I should start stamping the back as soon as I make the card instead of waiting for when I go to send it!
How great to see you guesting on this blog and how great that your fans (read: me) have another opportunity to enjoy your wit and talent. Thanks!!!
Donna Mc
Congrats to the hippest happenist smartest and therefore funniest stamper friend I know and love! Looking forward to the 18th from here on out!
Yes I sign the back of my cards. Years ago my dad taught me to always sign my handiwork so every time I made something I always made sure at least my initials and many times the date were on the item. When I started card making I always signed the back but I have many friends who do not.
What a cute card and I was so excited to read that there was a drawing for the stamp! I’m in! I have to admit that I make a ton of stamps and rarely sign them but I’ve got cute copyright and “made by” stamps that I was thinking earlier this month that I should really be using. I make cards throughout the year, then once a year I sort who they will go to for birthday/anniv. At this time I stamp the insides and I could easily take the time at this point to add my signature to the back. Thanks for the reminder.
Yay! Miss Carole So happy for you and your new adventure! Also so happy to have yet another opportunity to catch your fun wise and witty banter here too! I couldn’t agree more ! I actually have a custom made stamp for that very purpose. So many times I have sent a very special hand made card out to a friend or family member and it’s not till they turn it over and see my stamp and initials that they realize, “Hey She made this!” LOL And your card is just Adorable! Love the sweet image and Fab stitching too!
Hugs
Shannon 😎
Love this card Carole! So colourful, bright and cheerful.
I almost always stamp the backs of my cards but I sometimes forget. I got a great pack of stamps for that purpose from Verve Stamps. The sentiments are: Art from the heart of with 2 hearts, stamped with Verve, Art from the heart of with a butterfly and handmade by. I also have another one that states Created for you by…
I’m glad I read this post as I have several cards that need to have the backs stamped.
I totally agree with signing the back of cards, my problem is I want it to be a the perfect whimsical signature…but I can’t decide what that is! So I’m waiting til I figure it out!!!! Should I include my email incase someone wants to order cards? What if my email changes!!!! What if I never do and I have unsigned cards everywhere! So many decisions!
I love the little YNS for the back & the place to sign, great idea!
I would love to have something to sign on th eback of my cards and for the time being, I simply write my first name. It’s not very original but it works. I would LOVE to win this stamps set as it is sooooooooo cute!!!
Adorable card! I’ve always loved your style & sense of humor since I “met” you on the MFT board over at SCS a few years ago.
I confess that I don’t sign my cards. Usually, I am lucky if I get to make a card at all. But you’re right – certainly signing a card really doesn’t take time at all. It’s just having to remember to do it. I will TRY to sign my cards from now on. 🙂
Nope….don’t sign my cards….but I will now…because Carole says so…and I is afraid of her 🙂
Huge congrats my friend. You will have them wetting their pants on the 18th of every month!