SUOC49 Single Layer Cards are Easy?

Today at Stampin' Up Only Challenges, we are putting together special thank you cards.  I'm working on a Convention swap, a single layer card swap.  Sounds simple in theory, right?  Not so much.  Stamping, sponging, embellishing on the card base (without screwing up) is a real challenge.  And exactly what do you use for embellishments anyway?  Don't want your brad butts showing.  Can't use stitching.  Argh!  I figured I'm running through enough iterations and spending enough thought to qualify this card as "special".

So here is one of my prototypes that didn't make the final cut.  Actually two versions.

Wow, this card is being really challenging to photograph.  I'm trying to capture the score lines on either side of the piercing, both good options for embellishments, but the card looks like it has a weird bruise disease.  I redid the second picture.

Stamps: Just Believe; Paper: Island Indigo, Rich Razzleberry, Whisper White; Ink: Island Indigo, Rich Razzleberry, Basic Black; Accessories: Island Indigo baker's twine, Pearl jewels, Corner rounder punch, Paper piercer, Simple Scored, Sponges, Beautiful Wings embosslit, Big Shot.

Thanks for stopping by!