Patriotic Cards

I absolutely love the new patriotic stamp sets.  An old paper pack, Independence, was used to create these cards, as well as the stamp sets Home of the Brave (D1576) and Courage (B1437).  At our CTMH Operation Smile crop, I took a class from the incomparable Carrie Evans! :)  This technique that gives a quilted look was taught at one of her classes.  I love it!

 First, you take 1/2" strips of paper and glue them down side by side on a sheet of paper.  Next, trim off this strip of paper and turn it 90 degrees and cut strips that are 1/2" to give you little strips with the 5 pieces.

 Then you glue these small strips to another sheet and make sure they are stair-stepped.  Once they are glued down, you cut it diagonally and you have the quilted piece for your card.