The sweet folks over at Picket Fence Studios sent me a little care package – and when I saw this Bird of Paradise I knew I had to color it up! I found a pic on google with a bokeh background, and that was my inspiration.

Video
Watch the video below or click HERE to view on YouTube.
I wasn’t sure this was going to turn out as well as it did but man – I was so thrilled! A few weeks ago I shared a video talking about being “in the zone” – and this card was surely one of those moments.

I liked this so much I nearly didn’t even put it on a card! Watch for me to paint some bird of paradise flowers in World Watercolor Month on my fine art instagram account….that might happen!

Supplies
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- Bird of Paradise, Picket Fence Studios
- Albrecht Durer Watercolor pencils: EH – BLICK
- Arches Cold Press Paper: EH – BLICK
- Winsor Newton Kolinsky Sable Series 7 Round #8
- Fadeout No Line Ink, Ink On 3
Love this, card. It’s absolutely gorgeous!
Is that really a tea strainer that you were using? I have tried using a sanding block with the watercolour pencils to get the fine dust, but the result is never as fine as yours is here. Please do let me know.
Thank you
Joann
Yup a tea strainer! Sandpaper adds sandpaper dust to the pigment; the strainer just creates the tiny pigment shavings.
I love this. I designed a bouquet for my sister’s wedding with a bird of paradise in it. Such a gorgeous flower. What no line ink do you use for this?
Sorry, forgot to put that in the supply list! It’s this one: https://bit.ly/3j5xlGb
Stunning card Sandy!
The awesome background is so awesomely dreamy,
and the flower so beautiful bright.
I’m totally in love with this card.
Thank you so much for sharing, stay safe and have a wonderful day.
Just GORGEOUS! I am intrigued by your “tea strainer” technique. I’ve seen you do this before, and I’m sorry to say I was skeptical. I should know by now, you would never lead me astray. Your bokeh result is amazing! The textures are terrific! I know I do not have the water control you do, but I am going to try this. Thank you for the “free” tutorial!
ps: tell G to leave those squirrels alone! 🙂