Birds Are Packing Their Bags – How to Create a Vibrant Spring Card

Birds are packing their bags and making their grand return, filling the trees with song as they settle into their springtime homes. Watching them swoop in, fluff their feathers, and claim the best branches got me thinking—if I were a bird, I wouldn’t just be picking a tree. I’d be scouting the best craft room with a stocked supply of paper crafts! Inspired by watching their arrival on my walks, I created this vibrant card. I’m using the Bird’s Eye View Stamp Set and Soft Pastels.

But let’s be honest—if I had to fly thousands of miles for a change of scenery, I’d need snacks, a neck pillow, and way too many tea breaks. That’s why I prefer my seasonal migration to be from the couch to my craft table. This is where I can cozy up with my supplies and create instead!

How I Created My Masterpiece

1. Stamp the Image – I used the Bird’s Eye View Stamp Set to stamp my bird and branch onto watercolor paper.
2. Apply Dry Pastels – I lightly sketched Soft Pastels onto the bird, branch, and background—no water yet!
3. Activate the Color – Using a damp brush, I blended the pastels, watching them soften, swirl, and transform into vibrant watercolor-like effects!
4. Build the Background – The same Dry-to-Wet Technique helped create a soft sky effect—just a little blue pastel and water, and voilà!
5. Finishing Touches – Some twine, a few gems for sparkle, and a cheerful “Happy Day” sentiment to brighten it all up. The sentiment is from our Saying Something Ephemera Pack (163761). I LOVE having these on hand to add a quick sentiment to my projects.

Birds Are Packing their Bags, So, Where Are YOU Nesting This Season?

The birds have returned, setting up their cozy nests and filling the air with their happy chatter. Sounds a lot like us crafters, doesn’t it? We gather our supplies, find the perfect spot, and settle in for some creative time!

This Soft Pastel Dry-to-Wet Technique is the perfect way to bring a soft, blended, artsy touch to your spring projects. Want to try it yourself? Grab your Bird’s Eye View Stamp Set and Soft Pastels and let your creativity take flight!

If you could be a bird for a day, where would you spread your wings? Or are you happiest right where you are—as long as there’s cardstock, ink, and a fresh stack of new stamps? Let me know in the comments!

Judi shares how to do this card & technique in the video below. Post a comment if you will be trying this technique.

Until we meet again,