Source: etsy.com via Nicole on Pinterest

Handmade Cards...

      Every year around Christmas time I take it upon myself to make cards for my loved ones. I’d say it’s somewhat of my own little tradition. In a way, it gives me a chance to express my feelings.  Even if I may not write anything super unique, taking the time to make a card for someone is my own little way of showing that I care about and value that person, and after all don’t actions speak louder than words??

     I can’t remember how old I was when I started making cards. I make cards for all occasions: birthdays, holidays, graduations, mother’s day, valentine’s day (that is, only if I’m lucky enough to have a special someone or should I say only if someone is lucky enough to be my special someone?? Hmm...), etc...

     The quality and craftsmanship of my cards has definitely been improving over the years (if I do say so myself). I did do something a little different last year, instead of hand making my cards I designed them on the computer using Photoshop and Illustrator... LOVE those programs, especially Illustrator (even though they retard my MacBook Pro).  I am addicted to Adobe Creative Suite. 

     This year they're going to be all handmade. I find that my creativity really goes into overdrive when I’m creating these cards and I'm so excited.

    I recycled a lot of materials and supplies that I already had like bows from past presents, extra buttons that I have lying around the house doing nothing, ... I vowed to make cards without buying any new supplies, but that didn’t last too long. After working on some cards I realized I did need to pick up a few things. So yesterday I ended up going to Michaels, and spent about $36. The whole time I was there I had to weigh the pros and cons of everything I thought I needed and or wanted, ughh. I used to be a big fan of stickers...and don’t get me wrong I still am, but they are just super duper expensive (at least the ones that I choose). Besides, using stickers are also kind of an easy way out as well. This year, everything’s harder (that’s what she said (inappropriate but c'mon I had to!)). For instance, instead of buying an already made wreath sticker, I created my own using a hole puncher and different shades of red paper to give it some dimension. I punched holes and yes I took the time to glue each little individual piece.

    
      I've made like 10 cards so far but here's 3 of them...and to those of you who will be receiving these, I apologize in advance for spoiling the surprise!!! <3 

Live. Love. Laugh.

I absolutely love text & image art pieces. They make me feel good. I'm currently working on a few paintings featuring verbs like "live," "love," and "laugh" (how original, I know)...

Here's a preview:

                                     

Let me know what you think ;-)

Floral Crush...

If you haven't noticed,I have a thing for flowers.
( You'd only know this if you've visited my website www.nicolebarreto.com and/or seen and subsequently 'liked' my facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ARTbyNB )