Jems Blog Hop - Something for Men

Hello and welcome to the Jems May Blog Hop!  Perhaps you've joined me from the lovely Gill Arnold's blog.  This month we are talking "Something for the Men".  Yes, masculine cards, eek. I've heard so many people say they struggle with making cards for guys, so I thought I'd give a few tips that I've picked up along the way.   Art and design are subjective, of course, there are no hard and fast rules, but these are principles that have served me well.

CAS works
Clean and simple (CAS) cards always work for the guys.   No "faff", bows, rhinestones, just minimal embellishment and lots of clean "white" space.

Colour
A masculine colour scheme makes all the difference...not just shades of blue though...also earth tones, neutrals, bright primaries and metallics will work....just stay away from pastel pink and you should be good!

Focal Point
The usual cars/bikes/boats/tools are all good if you have specific masculine stamp sets.  But if not, try bold graphic images, pattered paper in stripes/plaids, big bold sentiments as a focal point, nature  or botanical themes work well. Remember a card for a man doesn't HAVE to be overtly masculine...it can be gender neutral.

Sentiments
Simple sentiments in sans serif fonts will give a more masculine feel, rather than flowy script, although a bold plain font can look good paired with script.

So, keeping all that in mind, here are my cards for today.

First up, a one layer CAS card using the Lovely as a Tree stamp set (nature).  I've done a faux torn edge technique, where I've masked off a section with torn paper and ink blended between the masks.  A slightly retro looking sentiment is all else it needs.

Next up is a card with botanical images in masculine colours (black, Pacific Point and smoky slate), using the Vintage Leaves stamp set.  I've added interest with a pop of colour in the layer and some candy dots, and a stitched oval diecut to hold the sentiment. This card was inspired by the fabulous and talented Kylie Bertucci at  http://www.craftykylie.com/

Here are the two cards together.  I'd love for you to come back on Monday, when I'll have some more masculine cards, but this time for the younger men in your life.

Please click a link below to continue on the hop.  Next is the uber talented Amanda Bates.