Happy 4th!

I don't think I'll ever stop making different versions of cards with this Seaside Bundle from Concord & 9th. I've had a red, white and blue card in mind since the package arrived with these goodies, so I got them out this morning to make one. I probably like the stenciling part of using these products the best, then the stamping and die cutting. I know it is really early to be thinking about the 4th, but we do Christmas in July cards, right?

I am playing along at the April 2026 Stencil Fun Challenge with my card. I've added a photo of the card below with just the stenciling step completed. There are four layering stencils in the set.

Here is all of the stenciling, my first step in the process. The sky and water are stenciled too! I try to add shading to the rooftops and water. I made a hazy white and blue sky and used the tiniest ink blending brush to make the cobblestones slightly different shades of grey. There's a big difference before you add the die cuts and stamping!

I die cut a lot of the accessories and added and removed many of them over and over. I wanted a peaceful, simple view of the café and hotel by the water. Wherever this is, the red white and blue are there whether it is a holiday or not with the roof tiles, doors, awning and shutters.

The only thing that isn't by C & 9th on my card is the sentiment from Stampin' Up! a long time ago. I used matte silver cardstock scraps for the table and chairs, the upstairs railing, and the boat mast. They kind of go with the grey cobblestone walkway.

Well, I'm sure people are making summer plans by now and the patriotic holidays start a month from now. Can you believe it?

Have a happy, restful weekend,

Carol