The Perfect Ensemble

A heartfelt handmade gift means so much, both to the giver and receiver.  You know how much love goes into making something special, so it is equally important to know who your recipient is as you create it.  

I decided it would be fun to create an entire coordinated ensemble of altered artwork to mix and match for a good friend or two.

Finding vintage-style coordinating scrapbook paper online a few years ago,  I loved it so much that I bought all that was available.  It's a subtle Valentine mix of dark red, soft yellow, sage and black -not a hint of pink or bright red in the bunch. 

Since I just altered a wooden plaque (see February 2 post), I decided to create coordinating items, addeding a small notebook, pillar candle, clothespin clips, a large spiral notebook, a note holder, and of course, a glass jar filled with chocolate.

Here is the beginning of my embellished mini notebook.  I found these small spiral notepads (with pens) on our recent visit to Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo -- in the college bookstore for less than $2 each.  Here are the before and after notepads.

                                     

And here is it is shown with thematching pen and altered clothespin clip.  Embellishments include ribbons, chipboard circle stamped with "Friendship is a work of heart," a wooden bead and metal heart charm, and of course, the coordinated scrapbook paper.

And a surprise envelope inside for love notes or perhaps a sweet gift card?

And a few stamped images throughout the pages.

...the large spiral notebook

...matching tile coasters

...an embellished pillar candle

and this altered glass hinged jar full of kisses--chocolate kisses!

And a photo of the complete ensemble:

Now it's time to steal a few of those kisses...xoxo

Linking up to these fab blogs:
Craft-o-Maniac


(Lindsey's first linky party!)