Fascinated by... Jen

Happy Friday, my blogging friends... This week's featured artist is none other than the talented Jen Shears!! She has a fresh style that is sure to inspire. Without further ado, let us introduce you to... sweet Jen :)

Name: Jen Shears

Blog: jen shears designs

Tell us a little something about yourself?

I'm mainly a SAHM to my amazing 6 yo daughter & wife to my fabulous husband- both of whom are really supportive of my crafting! We live in beautiful Western Washington state- a great place for boating & gardening (I enjoy both!). Besides loving to try all types of crafts, I am also trying to grow my photography skills. I'm pretty sure I'm addicted to paper. And ribbon. And probably stamps. 

When and how did you start card making?

Many moons ago I went to a home catalog party- and I was HOOKED! I got away from it for a long time, until my friend, Cindy, introduced me to PTI, the world of acrylic stamps & blogs! 

When would you say you are most creative?

Finding time is the biggest challenge these days! I thought I'd have lots of time during the day now that Hadley is in school full-time. Not yet! I still find evenings to be my creative time! 

What is your favorite technique?

 Adding ribbon. :) That's not a technique? I also love embossing- heat, cuttlebug, etc & machine sewing.... 

Do trends inspire your creative process?

Somewhat. Often times a trend will come along & inspire me to try something that I might not have otherwise! 

Is there something about paper crafting you find challenging?

Staying focused! I want to try it all! 

If you were stuck on a deserted Island, what THREE paper crafting supplies would you HAVE to have with you?

I guess I wouldn't get far without cardstock, ink & a stamp set! If this was a MAGIC deserted island & I already have those things- burlap twine, patterned paper, my cuttlebug. (I could emboss with sand for texture! hee!!) 

Is there a designer in the paper crafting industry that inspires you?  If so, what about their style or technique calls your attention?

A designer? There are SO many that inpire me! Since you say 'industry' I'll go with Nichole Heady of Papertrey Ink & her design team. I love the variety of styles they showcase- from CAS to shabby & gorgeous. Someday I hope to be able to layer products & goodies like Danielle Flanders, Betsy Veldman & Ashley Cannon Newell! Their attention to detail is amazing. 

How would you describe your own style?

I don't know that I can! It really depends on my mood & what I'm creating for.... Sometimes my finished product is VERY CAS, and sometimes I can layer some things together- that's something I'm working on! I've only recently come to enjoy fun & cute (thank you Lawn Fawn!). 

How long would you say it takes you to complete a card or project?

ahh. Some cards can take for-EVER! Days even. But if the stars are aligned I can make something in 15 minutes. I wish the stars were aligned more often! 

Do you have a favorite occasion to create for?

Probably birthdays. I think it's special to give something handmade. 

When you are finished with your creations what do you do with them?

I give most of them away! (although I am notorious for not  mailing them in a timely manner! ack.) 

Are you on any Design Teams or have served on any in the past?  Please include guest design positions?

I am on the May Arts Ribbon Design Team& it has been a dream come true! I was a guest designer one month on Everything But the Kitchen Sink! :)

Aren't these very pretty cards? I love the blending of styles, choice of colors and the great finishing touches!  Such great ideas, Jen .Thanks darling for letting us share your cards on this blog AND thanks to all of you who have stopped by!! :)