Hi there. How are you?
Most of my studio time lately has been spent on the computer, turning my very popular multi-color ballpoint pen drawings into saleable objects. I'm in the process of designing a set of greeting cards that utilize these drawings as backdrops.
Here's how I do it:
This ballpoint sketchbook drawing became the backdrop for a greeting card.
Step One: Scanning
I scanned this drawing into the computer. In Photoshop, I took out a couple of stray lines and adjusted the color so that it would print as close to the original drawing as possible.
I made a few different versions of this card before I got something I liked.
Step Two: Adding Text
After cropping the background image to proper card size, I imported the file into Illustrator, where I added in the text. As you can see, I went through a few iterations before I got something I liked.
Step 3: Printing
This is the first time that I've printed cards "full bleed" (image goes right to the edge). I'm printing on an upgraded 92# cotton paper, which gives the card a more luxurious look and feel. There's been a learning curve to get the colors to print as I'd like, but after much trial and error, I'm getting prints I'm pleased with on this new paper.
I've made 7 cards so far.
I've still got more cards in the works, but I wanted to share with you what I've made so far.
There are cards for happy occasions......
This modern, abstract Congratulations and Thank You are a stylish addition to your stationery stash.
And cards for more somber ones....
Send your sympathy or well wishes with elegance and grace. The abstract ballpoint pen drawings are sure to bring a little comfort to someone going through a rough time.
And cards for Mom and Dad!
I'm particularly pleased with my Father's Day and Mother's Day cards.
I'm excited about this collection and where it's heading.
I'm planning on adding cards for graduation, for the holidays, a valentine, and a simple "hello."
For what occasions do you purchase and send cards?
What type of card would you like to see me add to my collection? Do tell!
I am looking forward to adding this card line to my wholesale collection, so I can pitch these to shops around the country! Until then, you can find them in my online shop, at 6Pence in downtown Carbondale, and at the Homestead Collective (inside Packrats) in Downtown Cobden, and also in my Etsy shop.
