Process and Materials
Every card takes me more than an hour to make as each is handmade and therefore unique.
I start by sketching out my design on paper to create a balanced layout, then lightly draw the design onto card in pencil before using paint, ink or embossing powder to write the client's personalised message and add hand painted elements such as my signature stars. While the front of the card is drying, I paint or emboss the insert paper with a quote or a scattering of stars. I also paint or emboss a design onto the envelope liner. Once everything is dry I assemble all the elements before carefully packaging the card to be posted.
I use G F Smith Colorplan 270gsm card and matching 135gsm envelopes, an iconic product made in England. As well as being fully recyclable and biodegradable, Colorplan has FSC certification, meaning that the pulps used are all from managed forests. It is also Heavy Metal Free and, because the bleaching process avoids the use of harmful chlorine, it is classified ECF.
For writing and embossing I use Ecoline liquid watercolours, Finetec metallic watercolours, Windsor & Newton Designers Gouache, Kuretake black sumi ink and Ranger embossing powders. Writing and brush lettering is made with a pointed pen, glass pen or a size 0 watercolour brush.
I don't use any plastic in my packaging, my cards are posted in pretty paper bags inside board envelopes for protection.