This design was inspired by a expression that my Gram who passed away last year, would often say when she was confused or trying to focus on something. She would get mildly frustrated and say, "Wait, wait. I'm all balled up!" I always thought it was so funny when she would say it. I never knew exactly what she meant when I was growing up, but now I surely do and so does this 'funny snowman'.
The card design was created by hand with black ink. It was then scanned into the computer and the colors were added to it. I really struggled to get all of the elements to look right and also fit into an envelope at the same time. I shuffled some things around, cut and paste and found a good place for everything. This 'funny guy' was then cleaned up some and printed out onto card stock to check it out. When all was good, I took them to my printer guy 'Joe' who had me email a copy of the file to him. He printed them out, all on one side on white card stock. They were waiting for me when I picked them up and they looked so cute all in one stack. Now I knew I had to get a move on.
I knew I had to get down to work because I did not have much time to get them completed and mailed out, too. I began by cutting them out all the way around the image with scissors leaving a small white border. Little papers were everywhere. Next I scored and folded them into 3 panels. The first panel reads, 'I've been a snowman all my life...' The second reads 'but this Christmas has me...' The third reads, 'all balled up! and 'Happy Holidays to you!' It's kind of confusing to write it out this way, so looking at the photos will surely help. The card was finally adorned with some colored glitter then left to dry. When they were done, I started to address them and put them in the envelopes.
Everything about this 'funny snowman' but his hat and one boot is dishelved and out of place. I thought that this truly reflects what my Gram was saying when she felt overwhelmed. I know my family and friends and those who knew Gram will surely know what this card is about. So the next time you get confused or frustrated, just say out loud or to yourself, "I'm all balled up!" Maybe you will remember this card?
Below are some more photos...
Well, I hope you like this year's design and find that it ranks somewhere up at the top? Feel free to leave a comment. I'd love to read what you think.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.
Cheers,
Loren
