Tweet Tweet! Bluebirds are in Town

You know spring is just around the corner when the birds arrive, and I've seen cardinals and bluebirds and blue jays in the last few days, to name a few. My friend Monika is fond of the bluebirds, and she posted some pics of them on her blog a few days ago. When I saw the bluebird couple, it sparked an idea for a card using ANOTHER new punch I have--the 2-step bird punch.

The 2-step bird punch is one of the newly-designed, low profile punches that are exclusive to SU!, and this one makes quick work of creating a sweet winged creature. It's called a 2-step punch because the body and the wing are punched separately. It also punches a branch (!), but I didn't use that on this card.

When I set out to recreate the bluebirds in paper, I punched two bodies in Whisper White so that I could add some breast color appropriate for the sex. The male has rust colored plumage and the female a tan set of feathers. I used my sponge daubers to add that coloring, using Really Rust and a combination of River Rock and Close to Cocoa.

Then I punched out a second body for each, one in Brocade Blue and one in Sahara Sand. I trimmed away some of it and layered it over the WW body. Then I added the wing--one in BB and the other in Kraft. I little dot of an eye with a Basic Black Stampin' Write marker, and they were ready for their "environment"!

I used some retired DSP called Delicate Dots from Sale-A-Bration last year. Isn't that pattern perfect for making it seem like those birdies are resting in a flowery bush? A simple base of Sahara Sand, the opposite corners rounded, and the card is almost complete.

I used the Kisses diecut pieces that are available in the Spring Occasions Mini for my sentiment, which is from Kind & Caring Thoughts (Level 3 Hostess set). A quick inking in Brocade Blue, and it's ready to go.

I trust you're enjoying the signs of spring in your backyard. Tell me what you're seeing!