It’s a Flocking Spider! Halloween Card

I just had to squeeze in a post for the Clean and Simple Fall-to-Layout challenge #106!  Clean and Simple cards are my favourite kind: stylish without overpowering your personal message (and easier to mail without having all that extra embellishment bulk).

I just picked up some black flocking power (which is like fuzz) to try out some Halloween shapes.  This sketch was the perfect opportunity to try it out.  Here is the sketch:

And here is my card:

(available on iCraft)

This is the first time I have used stamps to make the background pattern.  I used a stamp set by Little Paper Shop.  I stamped the background in a chalk grey and the web in black.  Then, I attached one of my own, original paper die cut spiders.  I coated it with the black flock and I got a cute fuzzy spider!  He is hanging from his web with paper string.

I really like doing sketches because it helps me to look at my supplies in a new way.  Some people love them, some people think it’s “cheating”.  I think it’s a stepping stone to your own creativity.  What do you think of challenges?