Thursday, October 6, 2016

Inspiration Week: Introducing Holiday Style & Merry Sentiments

Hello & welcome to day 4 of our Holiday Release preview.  Are you excited for tomorrow?  I know I am (but truth be told I still have several last-minute details to pull together so I'm glad I still have a little time left). ;)  Thank you for all your sweet comments both here and on Facebook and instagram.  I read every one of them and they've all meant so much to me!  

Today I'm showcasing two fun layering sets called Holiday Style and Merry Sentiments.  The Merry Sentiments set is a 3x4 set filled with sentiments that build on the word Merry and then also includes a fun vintage-inspired layering light bulb image.  I've always adored light bulbs--There's just something about them, so bright and happy.  ;)  There's also a Merry Word die that coordinates with the set.

First I used the layering jingle bell and bow images from the set.  These images took me forever to design, but I will say it's never felt more gratifying to stamp with a new set of mine.  I generally feel like all layering stamps are magical, but even more so when it's something you labored so hard on.  

Sunny Studio Stamps: Holiday Style Stamp Example

And here's my actual card using them.  Believe it or not, I didn't use a stamp positioning tool for these. Granted these are my best ones, but it just goes to show you don't have to have one to make it work.  My best results came from stamping the darkest image in black and then lining up the largest, lightest image over the top using the three shiny marks in the center to line things up.  For my bell I used Colorbox Seattle Sky Premium Dye InkColorbox Storm and Versafine Black Onyx.

For my sentiment, I inked up some white cardstock with my favorite jumbo dauber and red distress inks.  When it was nice and dry I heat embossed my sentiment in white (this phrase comes cut apart so that you can use it all lined up in a row or stacked (as you will see from card shared below).
Sunny Studio Stamps: Holiday Style Jingle Bell Card by Mendi Yoshikawa


Next, I have a card using the tree bough and layering ornaments from Holiday Style.  I surprised even myself with all the fun and unique ways this tree branch can be used.  The ornaments are so bold and easy to layer freehand. Once again I found it was easiest to stamp the shadow first in the darker color and then stamp the ball over the top.  I then used a 1" circle punch to punch them out. 

The set comes with three different ways to hang your ornament with both a hook and a string as shown here.  I provided the string both as a solid image and one with a break in it so that when it's stamped on the tree branch it gives the illusion it's actually hanging from the tree.  For my sentiment, I turned to stacking the sentiment from the set, pairing it with my favorite new banner image from Little Angels.  

Sunny Studio Stamps: Holiday Style Christmas Tree Card by Mendi Yoshikawa

My third card uses the tree bough branch from Holiday Style and the other stamps from Merry Sentiments.  For this card, I stamped the branch in three different colors of ink to form a border around my card panel.  I then die-cut all my light bulbs from white cardstock and stamped them with my Misti Tool (using a similar technique shared HERE).  While a Misti isn't absolutely necessary it definitely made my life easier when it came to stamping a ton of these from different colors.

When I had them all stamped out I loosely placed them where I wanted them on my card and then used a little ink dauber to apply an inky glow around them with my distress inks.  I then adhered to my light bulbs and added some glossy accents to them.  My sentiment was stamped with a phrase from the set and paired with several layers of the Merry Word die stacked on top of each other.  

Sunny Studio Stamps: Merry Sentiments & Holiday Style Card by Mendi Yoshikawa

For this card, I went bright and happy again having my ornaments hang from what looks like a garland.  When I was nearly done I accidentally got some ink on my card base just below the red ornament.  I tried sanding it off, but it still looked too obvious to me so I got clever with some sequins to try and hide my mistake.  That particular sequin still feels a little misplaced to me, but overall it was a good save for something that could have landed my card in the trash. 

Sunny Studio Stamps: Holiday Style Glass Ball Ornament Card by Mendi Yoshikawa

For my second rainbow of the day, I lined up the bulbs from Merry Sentiments in a fun clean and simple card.  I used our Wavy Border dies to form my string for the lights and inked up my background the same way I did for the first card using a mini ink dauber.

Sunny Studio Stamps: Merry Sentiments Retro Light Bulb Card by Mendi Yoshikawa

For one last card, I thought it would be fun to create an overall background and everyday card using the bow from the Holiday Style set.  Once again I was too lazy to mess with any sort of positioning tool.  I started by just inking up the bows with the base color and once I had them all placed I then could go through color by color with the layering images.  

When I was done I was hoping to hide some of my stamping imperfections & perhaps tone it down by spritzing it with water and flicking on some black ink.  In the end, I'm not sure if I ruined it, but after all the work I had put into it I decided to press on, adding a sentiment from our Sweet Shoppe set and coordinating Sweet Word die and fishtail banner dies.  The splatters and bows have a very 80's vibe to it, right?  
Sunny Studio Stamps: Holiday Style Layered Bow Thank You Card by Mendi Yoshikawa

This is a little graphic showing all the different ways our Merry Sentiments set can be used. I think this little set has a big bang for your buck with the layering light bulb and 9 different combinations for sentiments when paired with the Merry Word die.


Sunny Studio Stamps: Merry Sentiments & Merry Word Die Examples

I am frequently asked what colors I used in my stamping and while I didn't keep records for all the cards in this post, I have gone back and tried to match them due to popularity.  I have listed them from light to dark.  :)

Jingle Bell

Colorbox Seattle Sky
Colorbox Storm
Versafine Black Onyx


Red Bow, Lights & Ornaments
Hero Arts Pale Tomato
Colorbox Strawberry
Colorbox Cranberry


Tree Branches
Grasshopper (first card)
Tree Frog (third card)


Pink Lights & Ornaments
MFT Cotton Candy
Hero Arts Bubble Gum


Slightly Darker Pink (alternative)
Colorbox Candy
Versafine Clair Charming Pink


Lavender Ornaments
Colorbox Pixie
Colorbox Lilac

Yellow Lights & Ornament
Versafine Clair Cheerful
Colorbox Banana


Orange Lights & Ornament
Colorbox Tangerine

Papertrey Ink Orange Zest


Green Lightbulb (fifth card)
Versafine Clair Verdant
Colorbox Grasshopper


Turquoise Lights & Ornament-Option 1*
Colorbox Seaglass
Colobox Ocean

Blue Lights & Ornament- Option 2*
Colorbox Poolside
Colorbox Wave


*I was having trouble finding an exact match for the blues I used since it appears they are now retired, but I have provided options for slightly more aqua or slightly more blue.

Here's a full look at the new Merry Sentiments 3x4 stamps and companion dies...

Sunny Studio Stamps: Introducing Merry Sentiments 3x4 Clear Photopolymer Stamp Set      Sunny Studio Stamps: Introducing Merry Sentiments Light bulb Metal Cutting Die      Sunny Studio Stamps: Introducing Merry Sentiments Merry Word Metal Cutting Die

And here's a look at the new Holiday Style 4x6 stamps and coordinating dies...


Sunny Studio Stamps: Introducing Holiday Style 4x6 Clear Photopolymer Layering Stamp Set        Sunny Studio Stamps: Introducing Holiday Style Christmas Metal Cutting Die Set


Both of these will be available for purchase starting tomorrow morning!  Yay!

Would you like to win a $20 gift code to our online store?  Use the rafflecopter below to enter to win.  We will be giving away a new gift code each day for a total of five chances to win!  The contest closes on October 8th at Midnight PST.  Winners will be announced on Sunday, October 9th.  :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Make sure to check back tomorrow morning for one last stamp set and several standalone dies that I'm really excited about.  ;)








Other Sunny Studio Supplies Used:
    

81 comments:

  1. Mendi- these are amazing! Astounding! So very Holiday!! I am in love with that bell & the lights are too darn cute!!! Can't wait to get them all!!! You are amazing!!!

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  2. I was having trouble even getting through your post, because I had to keep looking at the cards, wow, this labor of love really paid off. Those multi-stop stamps are gorgeous, the bells look real! This release is phenomenal!

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  3. Oh wow! I love these sets!!!! You nailed these multi-layer stamps! I think that I would like to see you do some flower multi-layer stamps for spring and summer!

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  4. OH MY WORD....you so NAILED those Bells girl! they look like photos! Um...spring /summer, layering sets...flowers for sure, Maybe a beach/drinks set? I'd have to think more about that one but that is my off the top of my head suggestions for you

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  5. Oh I love both of these sets so much! The lights with the glow around them are so pretty! For spring/summer layering sets, I think butterflies and flowers would be cute. Umbrellas might be fun too!

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  6. Love the new sets but that jingle bell is my fav! To answer your question, I think it would be great to have a layering egg design for Easter.

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  7. I have been waiting to see these sets in full ALL WEEK. The layered bells and ornaments caught my eye in the sneak peeks weeks ago! And they do not disappoint! I'd love to see layered flowers and maybe layered flower pots with some dimension.

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  8. I would think the sun & the clouds will be the next thing to create a layering stamp for.-Maria Giselle B.

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  9. First of all, I have to say that these layering sets are amazing and so are your cards. Maybe in the next few weeks you could show us more about how you have your layers so perfect? Especially the bell, it looks so real! For spring and summer--I think you would make amazing layering flowers. Could you do a kitty maybe, that layers in all the stripes, like for a tabby? Or maybe something for the beach with layers to make the sand and waves look more realistic?

    Chris L.

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  10. If you heard a very excited squeal this morning, that would have been me. I've been anxiously awaiting these stamps ever since I saw the sneak peak of your cards. I adore the vintage-y old fashioned Christmas ornaments and lights. I cannot wait to get my hands on these (and hope I can get anywhere close to the results you have!). The stamp sets & your cards are just squeal-a-licious!!

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  11. I've gotten into the layering stamps
    idea and love them. Something with flowers
    would be good. For easter you could
    do Easter bunnies, eggs. hearts for valentine's
    day. Anything that can be layered makes
    shading so much easier. thanks.

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  12. Such a wonderful release!! I love all of the beautiful images, dies, and sentiments!
    I absolutely love the fun layering!!Beautiful cards by everyone!! Beautiful!!!
    Have a wonderful day,
    Migdalia
    Crafting with Creative M

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    1. Thank you Migdahlia. All week the cards have been by me--I've been a busy girl. :)

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  13. Flowers for spring and beach drinks for summer. I don't know if you could do a layered palm tree, but that would be neat, too! Love these multi-step stamps. You're doing an amazing job with them!

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  14. I love how the bells look ABSOLUTELY REAL and 3-dimensional on these wonderful designs!! I'm not kidding; they look AUTHENTIC, and the balls look great, too. The way you have stamped the lights to actually "glow" by inking the area at the back of the die is such a clever trick to give a realistic feel to the lights as well. LOVE these designs and the stamps/dies used to make them.

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  15. I love this set and I have been an avid watcher of your blog though for some reason I stopped getting emails.I have your teacher set with the apple and pencil and crayons and even made my daughter's class bookmarks this year with that set. I want all these sets. Lol, but I have kids birthdays to do so no buying. But hey if I won a set.. I totally wouldn't say no.

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    1. Thank you. If you email me at: info@sunnystudiostamps.com I'll look into it. Some emails have consistently bounced, but if you somehow have been removed accidentally I can add you back in. :)

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  16. These are gorgeous!!! Love the dies!

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  17. This stamp set is so inspirational. Spring/Summer Layering Stamp set... how about layered Easter eggs and a basket.

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  18. These new releases are fabulous!! Can't decide which is my favorite!

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  19. I had to do a double take! Those bells looked so realistic! I love this new release and all the versatility! I have to have it!!!

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  20. Loving the bough die
    and stamp! Lovely
    cards. I would like
    to see a fun rabbit
    done with the layering.
    Carla from Utah

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  21. These are awesome! I would love a video on ow to layer the bells!

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  22. Beautiful festive cards. Been waiting to see these sets revealed ever since you showed a sneak peek on IG a couple weeks back!

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  23. These are absolutely awesome new designs! Love each and every one! Fabulous stamps and dies! The bells are amazing!
    I'd love to see some layering flowers and animals. Easter eggs would be gorgeous too for spring.

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  24. OMG - these layering stamps are amazing1!!

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  25. Great new release! My favorite has to be the Christmas lights and bulbs. As always your cards are just beautiful.

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  26. I love the bells; They are amazing! I think for Spring/Summer a layering bunny and carrot would be nice or even a chocolate bunny!

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  27. I am in love with these sets, they are amazing and I can't wait to get them and play with them. Love, love, love them!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  28. Oh Wow Mendi....I can see already that this is going to cost me money.....I LOVE all of these new sets....Your cards were awesome!!!.....thank you so much.

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  29. I am blown away by the bell stamps!!!!!!!! Must have!

    Sue McNeill

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  30. Love all the sets! Beautiful! Thanks for the chance to win!

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  31. I am totally loving these new holiday stamp sets! Love the layering elements of the bulbs and ornaments especially! All of the creations made using these sets are gorgeous too! I am so excited to purchase these!

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  32. L






























    Love the new stamps and dies. The greenery and lights are my favorite. Can't wait to get them.


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  33. I would like to see a layered fruit stamp set for spring/summer.

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  34. These are all really fantastic. Seashells would be cute or sealife layered set.

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  35. I absolutely love those Christmas lights and balls. Love the layering, they look so real! For summer I would love to see some layering seashells and fish.

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  36. Love the new release!! I would love some layering dog stamp sets.

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  37. Oh these are gorgeous! The layers and the results are amazing!

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  38. FAbulous cards. I would like to see a layered lilac flower and how about a tractor.

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  39. Love the lights and bell. So real looking. I would like to see layered tulips or hydrangeas or lilacs for spring.

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  40. Fabulous cards! amazed at the shine you've achieved!

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  41. Oh MY oh MY!!! �� Those jingle bells are just 150% perfect. I love every new stamp and die I can't wait for tomorrow morning. I am going to shop shop shop! ❤️ You are so clever. Well done.

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  42. Love these new sets and all your pretty cards! Those bells look so real!!
    I'm a birdie lover and a flower lover, so I'd love to see those as layering stamps.

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  43. These layering stamps are amazing! The bell looks so real and the lights are great. The bough branch if fantastic. Love these stamp sets.

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  44. The jingle bells on your card look soooooo real!!! They are amazing!! I just love all the sets and dies from this release! Sunny Studios makes me soooooo happy!!!

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  45. I can never have too many flower stamp sets so would love to see what you could come up with for next spring or summer!

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  46. Oh my gosh, I love everything, but I must have those lights!

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  47. Love those ornaments and lights! So unique!

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  48. Fabulous stamps!! Would love to see ice cream, watermelon, Popsicles, or other sweet treats turned into layering stamps for summer!! :)

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  49. I just love the stamps showcased today. Gorgeous ornaments and lights. Your cards are terrific.

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  50. I love Christmas lights so much!

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  51. I can't wait... I can't wait.... I can't wait. This release is beyond fabulous!

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  52. So MANY wonderful options!!! These will make such a great variety of cards!

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  53. Wow Mendi, what cleverly designed stamps!! Those bells look 3D, I can't believe they were made with just a few ink colours. Fantastic stamps! Debra x

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  54. These new sets are fabulous and I can't wait to get them! As to spring and summer, I love layering flowers.

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  55. Gorgeous products! Love the 3D look bells! Thanks for the chance to win! :-)

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  57. I love your layering sets! What a marvel to achieve such a crisp dimensional look with step stamping! I would like to see a flower pot or vase in a layering set :)

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  58. These are all amazing cards. So pretty!

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  59. Your stamps and dies are so creative!

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  60. love the 3D effects on your cards!

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  61. Oh I really love the layering stamps!!! They look so three dimensional! LOVE your jingle bells card and your tree bough is fantastic! LOVE your gorgeous cards my friend!!!!
    Hugs,
    Jo
    xox

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  62. I love this time of year and getting inspired for the holidays!! I love everything from this release!! I would love to see layering flowers...would be perfect for spring and summer.

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  63. Spring or summer layering - baby animals such as lambs, chicks, ducklings, calves, etc. Also love cars - can never find good car stamps such as hot rods or trucks. Thanks for a chance to win. :D

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  64. I am totally in awe of these layered stamp sets. I couldn't wait and had to order them right away. I hope you plan on creating some more layered stamp sets. Your cards are stunning!!

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  65. Layered flowers would be great for spring - or maybe Easter eggs?
    For summer, I think some sort of wave stamps - for the pool or the ocean would be cool.
    Your layered/stamped Christmas lights and ornaments look aMAzing!

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  66. Guess I've been living under a rock b/c I just found out about your great stamps from Jennifer McGuire's site. Your cards & coloring and stamps/dies are truly fabulous! I can't get over how realistic your bell is on Holiday Style. To answer the question: B/C I live in a house of guys (2 sons and hubby) I'd like to see a layering card set I can use for them, maybe about going fishing with layers for bass, trout, crappie fish and some good sentiments to go with, both punny/funny and otherwise.

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  67. Would like to see a layered pine cone.
    Love the pine sprigs here.
    And the Merry set is fabulous.

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  68. I love this release. The cards are beautiful. I think a flower layering set would be great for spring.

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  69. Could you do tulips and/or daffodils - that would be so awesome!! Everything is so beautiful and artfully done!! You create beauty for all of us to see and use!!

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  70. Love the new releases!I think for spring/summer, I'd love to see layering sets of flowers: tulips, peonies, roses, hydrangeas etc

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  71. Congratulations to the very blessed winner! I came in too late and just about Gasped for air , when I saw these beauties for the first time! Wowzers!

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  72. Congratulations to the very blessed winner! I came in too late and just about Gasped for air , when I saw these beauties for the first time! Wowzers!

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  73. I love these sets and ideas with them. I do wish there was a video showing how the bell is layered though. If anyone has one or has a link I would love it. Also Mendi I was wondering if you cut out the bells and attached to the card or stamped them directly on over the branch. You certainly did a wonderful job designing these sets to come out so life like.

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    1. Thank you. I actually stamped and cutout and layered over the top. You can also achieve similar results with the matching dies. I was going to make a video, but ran out of time and there are so many others already out there if you search Sunny Studio Holiday Style on YouTube. Jennifer McGuire recently shared one here:

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFG8Asq2mYg&t=1s

      As far as lining up the jingle bell, I prefer to start with the darkest color (top layer) first and then the lightest base color. I use the center shiny marks (three squares) and the star to help me line the image up. Thanks again. :)

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