Today's ATC set began with a background that had been sitting in my stash waiting for the right project. Sometimes the best creative sessions start by rediscovering pieces you've already made and seeing them with fresh eyes.
For the backgrounds I blended Ranger Distress Inks in Rustic Wilderness, Cracked Pistachio, and Mowed Lawn, creating a rich mix of greens ranging from deep woodland tones to brighter spring shades. Over this I adhered some previously created tissue paper using Ranger Matte Medium, sealing it with an additional coat over the top. This not only protects the surface but also creates a lovely layered mixed-media foundation ready for further embellishment.
The focal points are elegant feather die cuts created using a feather die purchased from Temu for just £1.99. To contrast against the green backgrounds, I coloured the feather inserts with Tumbled Glass and Peacock Feathers Distress Ink and producing a soft turquoise shimmer that immediately draws the eye.
To add a little sparkle using Ranger Stickles in Star Dust, I finished the feather inserts with glitter accents and a few white highlights. The feathers were then mounted over the textured backgrounds to create depth and dimension.
The sentiment strips came from a set purchased through AliExpress and cost only a few pence per sheet. I selected phrases that encourage reflection and personal growth:
- You can't change the past
- You have to believe in yourself
- I lose myself
Although simple, these short phrases add meaning and help transform the cards from decorative pieces into miniature reminders and reflections.
To finish the set I mounted each ATC onto black cardstock. This small change made a surprisingly big difference, framing the artwork beautifully while helping the white feather outlines stand out against the background. A few white splatters and subtle circular details complete the mixed-media look without overwhelming the focal images.
I love how this set evolved during the creative process. What started as a simple feather design gradually became a collection of uplifting little reminders layered with texture, colour, sparkle, and thought.
Supplies Used
Background
- Ranger Distress Ink – Rustic Wilderness
- Ranger Distress Ink – Cracked Pistachio
- Ranger Distress Ink – Mowed Lawn
- Previously created tissue paper
- Ranger Matte Medium
Feathers
- Feather die (Temu)
- Ranger Distress Ink – Tumbled Glass
- Ranger Distress Ink – Peacock Feathers
- Glitter accents - Ranger Stickle in Star Dust
- White highlights - Posca pen
Finishing
- Sentiment strips (AliExpress)
- Black cardstock matting
- White paint splatter
A trio of uplifting reminders layered with texture, shimmer, and heart.
