Try Something New Tuesday!

Tuesdays are the day when I try something that I've never tried before creatively. This week, it's all about ATC's, or Artist Trading Cards. I see these all the time on SCS, but I've never ventured into trying to make my own! I did a little research yesterday to learn more about these adorable little things....

Did you know that ATC's :

1. are considered collectibles and miniature works of art?
   
   
2. were born of the older sports trading cards?
   
   
3. dimensions MUST be 2.5x3.5?
   
   
4. mustn't be sold, only EXCHANGED? Either face-to-face or through the mail.
   
   
5. are about meeting other artists and exposing yourself to many other personal styles?
   
   
6. should have the artists name, contact number, title of the ATC, and number (2 of 3) if it's part of an edition?
   
   
7. by definition, are made in limited numbers, often no more than one of a kind?
   
   
8. that are unique (usually on one was made) are called "originals", sets of identical ATC's are called "editions" (and are numbered), and sets of ATC's that are different but based on the same theme are called "series".
   
   Well, there you go. Probably more than you ever wanted to know about ATC's. After making these two ATC's, I've concluded that they are too much work for something so small! These two ditties took me as long or longer as it does to make a full-size card! There are so many people that are really into ATC's, especially SU demos, who trade them at conventions, etc. I think for that purpose they are a great idea! But since I'm not a demo, and since I found them to be so much work, I don't think I'll be making another any time soon. But I must say, the ones I've seen on SCS are BEAUTIFUL! You really should go check them out sometime, and then try making one yourself. Remember, Try Something New Tuesday is about s t r e tc h i n g ourselves out of our comfort zones. This was a great exercise for me, and I'm glad I gave them a try. If you are so inspired, be sure and send me a link so I can see your creations!
   
   I wanted to share these two pictures of the youngest member of our family, who was sunning himself yesterday morning in front of the sliding glass door! His name is Copper, and he is a toy poodle, almost 8 years old. He weighs all of 6.5 pounds. He considers me the pack leader of the family, so he follows me wherever I go, bathroom included! If there is an available lap, he's there. He loves bananas and cheese. He can hear me peel a banana from upstairs! Quite the amazing pooch, don't you think?
   
   Well, it's time to sign off and go stamp. I am relishing the peacefulness of the house now that the boys are back to school today!