Add Ink and Stamp

Tutorial for Cupcake Box

2012-01-31T08:12:00.000-05:00

I will warn you - this tutorial has alot of pictures! Sorry about that. And Here is the original post.

You will need:

Big Shot
Petal Cone Bigz Die
Crimper
Large Basic Pearls and Mini Glue Dots
Crochet Trim
Ribbon - I used Calypso Coral
Small Oval Punch
1/2" Circle Punch
designer paper - Everyday Enchantment
Very Vanilla, Pool Party cardstock
Sticky Strip

1. Die cut 3 petal cones from Pool Party cardstock.

2. Trim off the rounded part of each petal cone.

3. Line up the straight edge, as shown, on the 4-5/8" mark and score TO THE FOLD at the 2-5/8" mark.

*Turn the cardstock so the other straight edge is lined up and score again.

*If you are unsure what I mean, refer to picture #4.

4. Trim off the NON -TABBED half of one of the petal cones - discard.

5. On the remaining 2 petal cones, cut along the fold mark to the score line you just created.

6. I hope this is clear. Fold the petal cone in half (the 2 full size cones anyway) and place in the crimper and crimp. Do the same for the single cone - you obviously don't need to fold it in half.

7. When done correctly, it will look like this.

8. Add Sticky Strip to each tab and attach the cones together except the single one on the end.

9. Trim off the points as shown in picture.

10. Bend on the score lines, add Sticky Strip to each bottom piece.

11. Complete the box by adhering the final tab on the side.

12. Fold in each bottom piece and adhere. Don't worry if Sticky Strip shows.

13. Trace the bottom of the box twice. Cut them out and add Sticky Strip along their edges.

14. Add one to the bottom and one to the inside.

*Sponge all of the edges if you like that look.

15. Die cut 3 Petal Cones from designer paper. I used Everyday Enchantment (Sale-a-bration)

16. Cut off the tabs and cut each one down the middle. You will only need 5.

17. Slip the pointed end of the petal into the Small Oval Punch as shown and punch. This will give the end a rounded look.

18. Use the 1/2" Circle Punch and punch a hole in each petal as shown.

19. Adhere the large rounded end of each petal to the inside of the box. Make sure you add the adhesive to the correct side of the dsp!

20. Gently roll each petal toward the inside so the "cupcake" part of the box will be rounded.

21. Cut a piece of ribbon measuring 9". Fold it in half and tie a knot on the end opposite of the fold.

*The ribbon shown in my photo is not the one I ended up using for my Blog Hop cupcake box.

22. At this point, Crochet Trim and Ribbon can be added around the box. Also, Large Basic Pearls.

23. Sorry, I don't have a photo of this part. To attach the Ribbon Loop (from step #21) slip it through one of the holes in one of the petals and adhere it on the inside of the petal.

24. To close the box: Slip the loop through each hole, alternating the petals.

This is the first cupcake box I made. It has the sentiment on the front.

The cupcake box I used for the Stampin Addicts Sale-a-bration Blog Hop is this one.

I hope this didn't bog down your computer. If you have any questions please feel free to ask me. I will try to help.

A special birthday card

2012-01-30T07:51:00.000-05:00

Hello there! I hope you had a great weekend and were able to view the Sale-a-bration Blog Hop! What, you say? There was a Blog Hop? Click Here if you would like to see all the wonderful Sale-a-bration goodness.

Speaking of weekends - my mother had a birthday over the weekend so I naturally made her a card. I wanted to do something different than my standard card. So I made her a Tunnel Card. I found instructions HERE and HERE. It was a lot easier to make than I thought!

She absolutely loves the color green so I took my colors from the new Twitterpated dsp.

The inspiration for the card front came from a swap I received from a fellow Control Freak Swapper, Patty Bennett. She is soooo creative and I love her style.

When you open up a tunnel card it looks like this. Instead of ovals, I used the new Label Framelits and die cut the opening with them. I love the unique shape.

Here is the view from the top. Like I said, it is pretty easy to create even though it looks complicated. And it folded flat enough to mail without extra postage. Yay!

All stamps are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Field Flowers, Sincere Salutations

Paper: Twitterpated dsp - Occasions Mini

Cardstock: Pear Pizzazz, Baja Breeze, Blushing Bride, Whisper White

Ink: Baja Breeze, Island Indigo, Pear Pizzazz

Other: Big Shot, Labels Framelits (Occasions Mini), Adorning Accent Edgelit (Occasions Mini), Two Tags Bigz die, Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die, Basic pearls, sponge, mini glue dots,

Thanks for stopping by!

Sale-a-bration Blog Hop!

2012-01-27T07:50:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the annual Stampin Addicts Sale-a-bration Blog Hop!

Friday, January 27 - Sunday, January 29

The hop officially begins at noon so all of the links may not be working just yet. Please come back - I don't want you to miss a thing!

If you arrived here from Rhonda Griffin's blog, The Stampin' Bunny, you are in the right spot! But don't worry if this is your first stop. The Blog Hop goes full circle - just follow the links!

<----------PREVIOUS BLOG

I will be highlighting the sale-a-bration stamp set, Outlined Occasions. It features 3 large sentiments with 3 coordinating small sentiments, all of which can be used individually.

One of the nicest things about sentiment stamps is they make great tags! That is exactly what I did with this project. First I made a "cupcake" box by using the Petal Cone Bigz die. Then I just added the tags made with Outlined Occasions!

This box is just the right size to hold an actual cupcake or maybe candy, a candle, or a small birthday gift. Whatever you put inside - I am sure the recipient will Celebrate!

I will post a free tutorial with more pictures - just not sure when.

Tutorial is now available. Click HERE

Stamps: Outlined Occasions (Sale-a-bration)

Paper: Everyday Enchantment dsp (Sale-a-bration)

Cardstock: Pool Party, Very Vanilla

Ink: Black Stazon, Soft Suede, Calypso Coral, Pool Party

Other: Big Shot, Petal Cone Bigz die, Crimper, Calypso Coral ribbon, Crochet Trim, Large Pearls (Occasions Mini), Basic Pearls, Oval Punch, Aquapainter, Mini glue dots, Sticky Strip

You know those times when a thank you card is just not enough? This little purse made with a Label Framelit is just large enough to hold a treat or small gift. Again, the tag made with Outlined Occasions, says it all.

Free directions/tutorial with pictures will be forthcoming.

Stamps: Outlined Occasions (Sale-a-bration Mini)

Paper: Twitterpated dsp (Occasions Mini)

Cardstock: Blushing Bride, Whisper White, Pear Pizzazz

Ink: Black Stazon, Blushing Bride, Pear Pizzazz, Baja Breeze

Other: Big Shot, Labels Framelit (Occasions Mini), Adorning Accents embossing folder (Occasions Mini), Twitterpated buttons (Occasions Mini), Blushing Bride ribbon (Occasions Mini), Lace Border Punch, White Baker's Twine, Decorative Label punch, Mini Glue Dots, Sticky Strip

After creating the cupcake box and purse, I was ready for something clean and simple! This "Love" card is easy to reproduce and would be a cute valentine for a special someone.

Tip: I embossed the sentiment with White Embossing Powder and then colored it in with the White Gel Pen.

Stamps: Outlined Occasions (Sale-a-bration Mini)

Paper: Twitterpated dsp (Occasions Mini)

Cardstock: Riding Hood Red, Basic Black, Whisper White

Ink: Versamark, Riding Hood Red

Other: Large Heart Punch, Button, White Baker's Twine, dimensionals, Big Shot, Timeless Type Sizzlit, Corner Punch, White Gel Pen, White Embossing Powder, Basic Pearls, Stamp-a-ma-jig

There is more! You won't want to miss the rest of the Blog Hop so head on over to Heidi Baks' blog, Running With Scissors.

NEXT BLOG--------->

If you have a moment, leave a comment - I would love to hear your thoughts. And don't forget, directions to these projects will be coming, hopefully this week.

Using up leftovers

2012-01-26T07:45:00.000-05:00

Every so often I go through my pile of "leftovers" and create a card. This was one of those times. Almost every piece of cardstock in this card was another project's reject. I just added ink and stamped! Ha ha. Just a little play on my blog's name.

To make the blackberries I used markers. First I markered up the stamp with Wisteria Wonder and then added a touch of Concord Crush marker before I stamped. After I stamped once, I stamped twice and yet again without adding more ink.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Clearly For You, En Francais Background

Cardstock: Wisteria Wonder, Pear Pizzazz, Very Vanilla

Ink: Concord Crush, Wisteria Wonder, Pear Pizzazz

Other: Big Shot, Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder, Top Note Bigz die, Perfect Pennants Bigz die, 2-1/2" Circle Punch, Modern Label Punch, Crochet Trim, In Color Brad

Thanks for stopping by.

Tomorrow is the Stampin Addicts Sale-a-bration Blog Hop! Friday, January 27 - Sunday January 29. I can't wait!

Elementary Elegance

2012-01-25T07:45:00.000-05:00

Hello stampers. Today's project is another swap that I did way back before Christmas! I made it for the Stampin Addicts Sale-a-bration Swap and it uses one of the Sale-a-bration exclusive stamp sets called, Elementary Elegance.

I was really attracted to this set because of the sentiments: Happy Birthday and Hello. I also love the little bird stamp. I think it is just the sweetest little thing and I can see myself using it with other stamp sets.

To make this card I used markers to add the various colors to the frame. Then I stamped the sentiment and punched it out, sponged it and adhered it with dimensionals.

Another little detail is the crown. It is stamped with Versamark and embossed with Gold. I did have to cut it out but surprisingly it wasn't hard at all! Actually nothing on this card was hard to do. I haven't really used this set much because Sale-a-bration has just begun but I am sure you will be seeing more of it!

You too can have the Elementary Elegance stamp set. It is one of the many Free sets to choose from when you spend $50. For more information about Sale-a-bration and the great deals check out the pdf catalog found by clicking Here.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Elementary Elegance - sale-a-bration

Cardstock: Very Vanilla, Calypso Coral, Lucy Limeade

Ink: Lucky Limeade, Calypso Coral, Pool Party, Versamark, Soft Suede

Other: Gold Embossing Powder, dimensionals, Sponge, Calypso Coral Ribbon, Lace Border Punch, Corner Punch, Gold Brads

To purchase these or any Stampin' Up! products, please visit my Online Store.

Enjoy the day! Only 2 more days until the Stampin Addicts Sale-a-bration Blog Hop.

Today's the Day!

2012-01-24T09:56:00.001-05:00

Stampin' Up!'s biggest sale of the year begins today!

January 24 - March 31, 2012

Customers: receive Free Products - not just stamps! For every $50 you spend on any Stampin' Up! products from the Idea Book and Catalog or , choose a Free Sale-a-bration item from the Brochure.

Note: some products are exclusive to Sale-a-bration and some are from the Idea Book and Catalog!

Hostesses: Be a hostess by having a workshop in your home or by gathering orders totaling a qualifying amount and receive more Free products!

Hostess Bundle Details:

The Hostess Bundle includes the products found on pages 6-7 of the Sale-A-Bration brochure, including

• Fresh Vintage stamp set (wood- or clear-mount)

• Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper

• Everyday Enchantment Ribbon & Brad Pack

*Free shopping tote with workshop orders only; offer does not include demonstrator, customer, or online orders. Free hostess bundle with workshop, customer, or demonstrator orders; offer does not include online orders. Offers are not incremental (i.e., a hostess does not receive two totes for a $300 workshop or two bundles for an $800 workshop).

And how cute is that tote?!

New Demonstrators: Last, but not least, sign up to be a Stampin' Up! demonstrator and receive the Starter Kit at a discounted price of only $125 ($50 savings) plus receive more Free products!

As if that isn't enough to get you excited about Sale-a-bration, there will be a

Stampin Addicts Blog Hop

Friday, January 27 - Sunday, January 29!

The Blog Hop will feature Sale-a-bration products by way of cards and 3D items. Lots of inspiration so mark your calendar!

I will have a project for you in tomorrow's post.

Planning ahead

2012-01-23T07:57:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday!

I really wasn't planning ahead when I made today's card. I am not that organized! I have lots of admiration for those of you who are already making Christmas cards!

No, today's card was a Stampin Addicts Occasions mini swap. I made it before Christmas so I had to put my mind in an Easter mode! If you have been following my blog, you may remember how I was really into using the Music Notes Stampin Around Wheel. Well, I continued my ~~obsession~~ preoccupation with the wheel and made and Easter card.

It was a little challenging because I had chosen the single stamp, Easter Dove for this particular swap. I didn't want the swap card to be too plain so I added the music notes, some texture with an embossing folder and some vellum to break up the background.

Because the Mocha Morning Specialty dsp is layered over the vellum, it holds the vellum in place.

Some other new products: Large Basic Pearl, Labels Framelit

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps:   Easter Dove - Occasions Mini
  Music Notes Stampin Around Wheel
Paper: Mocha Morning Specialty dsp, Vellum
Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Pool Party, Very Vanilla
Ink:   Soft Suede, Pool Party
Other:   Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint, Big Shot, Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder, Labels Framelit (Occasions Mini), Large Basic Pearl (Occasions Mini), Itty Bitty Punch Pack, sponge, dimensionals

My Online Store if you would like to purchase any of these products.

Don't forget! Tomorrow Sale-a-Bration begins. Woo Hoo!

Tutorial for Panda Candy Bar Wrap

2012-01-22T07:24:00.000-05:00

As promised, here is the Tutorial for the Panda Candy Bar Wrap from this post.

You will need:

Large Heart Punch
Small Heart Punch
Word Window Punch
Heart to Heart Punch
Small Oval Punch
Basic black, Real Red, Whisper White cardstock
Red Glimmer Paper
Real Red Ink
Mini Glue Dots
Googly Eyes found in local craft store

1. Punch the Face, Ears, Front Paws and Red Glimmer Heart with the Large Heart Punch.

2. Punch the Eyes and Mouth with the Small Heart Punch.

3. Punch the Tongue, Nose, and Back Paws with the Heart to Heart Punch.

4. Punch the 2 back feet with the Small Oval Punch.

5. Cut the Whisper White cardstock to be wrapped around the candy bar. It measures 2-3/4" x 3-3/4"

6. Stamp the sentiment on a scrap of white cardstock and punch it out with the Word Window Punch.

7. Wrap the Whisper White cardstock around the candy bar and adhere the 2 ends. Make sure it is loose enough that the candy bar can slide out.

8. Use Mini Glue Dots and attach the eyes, nose, mouth, tongue, and paws as shown.

9. Cut one of the Basic black, large hearts in half.

10. Adhere the sentiment to the Red Glimmer Heart.

11. Adhere the ears to the head by turning the large black heart upside down.

12. Adhere the front paws to the red glimmer heart as shown.

13. Adhere the back paws to the bottom of the candy wrapper.

This is a picture (sorry for the blur) of the back of the head and heart.

14. Adhere the Red heart to the candy wrapper.

15. Adhere the head to the top of the candy wrapper.

16. The back of the candy wrapper has enough room to write/stamp To: and From:

I just realized I never added the googly eyes to the face in this tutorial. Oops. But here is what it should look like when it is finished.

Hope you enjoyed this tutorial. If you have any questions feel free to ask!

Have a blessed day.

Strawberry Box Tutorial

2012-01-21T08:20:00.000-05:00

As promised, here is the tutorial for my Strawberry Box from yesterday's post.

You will need:

Big Shot
Petal Cone Bigz Die
Flower Folds Bigz Die
Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder
26" of Pear Pizzazz Seam Binding Ribbon
1/8" hole punch
long reaching hole punch or hammer and anywhere hole punch
Sticky Strip
Real Red, Chocolate Chip and Pear Pizzazz cardstock
Old Olive ink and sponge

1. Die cut 3 petal cones from Real Red Cardstock.

2. Emboss them with the Perfect Polka Dot embossing folder.

3. Die cut 3 petal cones from Chocolate Chip cardstock.

4. Add Sticky Strip to all tabs on the Real Red petal cones and adhere together. DO NOT adhere the 3rd tab yet.

5. Cut off the non-tabbed cone on the end. See sample.

6. Repeat for the Chocolate Chip petal cones. See Sample.

7. Cut the Chocolate Chip cones in a wavy line, discarding the tops.

8. Use Sticky Strip and adhere the Chocolate Chip part to the Real Red petal cones.

9. Punch a 1/8" hole in each petal cone as shown.

10. Cut in about 1- 1/2" on each seam

11. Fold on all score marks and adhere the final tab to make the box.

12. Die cut 2 Pear Pizzazz flowers from the Flower Folds die. You will need one of the largest flowers and one of the second largest flowers.

13. Punch a hole in the center of each.

14. Sponge the edges with Old Olive ink.

15. Adhere the 2 flowers together so their petals alternate and the holes match up.

16. Bend the large petals down and the small petals up.

17. Thread the ribbon through the holes like this so the ribbon ends are opposite of each other when done.

18. Add the treat to the box and pull the ribbon ends so the box closes up.

19. Thread both ends of the ribbon through the flowers.

20. Once the ribbon is pulled through, tie the ribbon firmly in a bow.

21. Attach the tag.

Tomorrow I will post the tutorial for the Panda Candy Holder.

Control Freaks Blog Tour -Love is in the Air!

2012-01-19T19:00:00.003-05:00

Welcome to another Control Freaks Blog Tour! With a title like "Love is in the Air" it can only mean one thing for this time of year - Projects for your Valentine!

The tour officially begins tomorrow, January 20th so be sure to check back once all of the kinks are worked out.

If you just arrived from Barb Mullikin's blog you are in the correct place. If you just came aboard, it's okay because the Tour goes full circle - just follow the links.

I don't eat strawberries because I am allergic to them - can't even touch them. But that doesn't keep me from loving them in other forms! I think the little strawberry image from the stamp set, P. S. I Love You is adorable. So adorable, in fact, that I made a "chocolate covered strawberry" container just so I could hang the tag from it! This box is filled with chocolate strawberry candies but would be perfect for any type of Valentine treat.

Back of the tag.

The strawberry box was made with the Petal Cone Bigz Die and the Flower Folds Bigz Die.

Free Tutorial is now posted HERE.

Stamps: P. S. I Love You- Occasions Mini

Paper: Red Glimmer Paper

Cardstock: Pear Pizzazz, Real Red, Chocolate Chip, Whisper White

Ink: Old Olive, Chocolate Chip, Real Red

Other: Pear Pizzazz Seam Binding Ribbon, dimensionals, Scallop circle Punch, 1-3/8" circle punch, Modern Label punch, Big Shot, Two Tags die, Petal Cone die, Flower Folds die, Perfect polka dots emb. folder, Hemp Twine, Vintage Trinkets

My card was made specifically for my daughters who live far from me - thus the "miss you" and broken heart. I got the idea for the chocolate kiss from one of my followers, Jacqueline. Thanks Jacqueline!

Stamps: P. S. I Love You - Occasions Mini

Paper: Silver Glimmer Paper

Cardstock: Cherry Cobbler, Chocolate Chip, Whisper White

Ink: Cherry Cobbler, Chocolate Chip, Not Quite Navy

Other: Big Shot, Adorning Accents Embossing Folder (Occasions Mini), dimensionals, Scallop Circle Punch, 1-3/8" circle punch, 1" circle punch, small heart punch, large heart punch, Blossom Petals Builder Punch

And one for the kiddos. This is a candy bar wrapper and fits a small candy bar. The Mr. Goodbar doesn't really fit the Valentine theme but it was all I had on hand. :) I got the idea to use all hearts for the Panda from this fun picture book, My Heart is Like a Zoo.

He is wrapped with whisper white cardstock so you could easily write To: and From: on the back. Or layer it onto a 1/4 sheet of cardstock.

Free Tutorial is now posted HERE.

Stamps: P. S. I Love You - Occasions Mini

Paper: Red Glimmer Paper

Cardstock: Whisper White, Real Red, Basic Black

Ink: Real Red

Other: small heart punch, large heart punch, small oval punch, word window punch, heart to heart punch, small googly eyes

I hope you enjoyed all of my Valentine Projects! For more inspiration, keep on moving to the next stop on the tour: LeeAnn Greff's blog. Enjoy!

Thanks for stopping by.

Lisa Young

Easy Valentine for Children

2012-01-19T08:44:00.000-05:00

If you still need ideas for a children's Valentine, here is one for you. Or maybe you know an adult who likes Pop Rocks!

After I embossed the Whisper White background layer across the bottom, I stamped it with different elements from the Grunge Rock stamp set. Then I created a pocket for my package of candy.

Pocket: I cut one of Stampin' Up!'s Small Open Ended Envelopes 2-1/2" from the bottom. Then I just stamped it as shown, added the valentine sentiment from Delightful Dozen, and embellished it with some Basic Rhinestones and a Red Glimmer heart. The "U" was die cut with my Big Shot and the Timeless Type Junior Alphabet Sizzlit Dies.

After everything is stamped, sponged, and layered just tuck the candy in the pocket and that is it! You can get 2 pockets from each envelope - 40 pockets in all.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Grunge Rock, Delightful Dozen

Paper: Red Glimmer Paper

Cardstock: Real Red, Whisper White

Ink: Real Red, Basic Black

Other: Small Open Ended Envelope

Big Shot, Adorning Accents Embossing Folder

Basic Rhinestones

Sponge

Largest Oval Punch and Small Heart Punch

Check out my Online Store for the products you need.

Until tomorrow then,

Kindness Does Matter

2012-01-18T07:07:00.000-05:00

Hi there! Well, in less than a week Stampin' Up!'s biggest and best sale will begin! Sale-a-bration begins January 24th with lots of opportunity to receive free stamps! And who doesn't love free stamps?

Some of the free stamps are unique to Sale-a-bration and some are in the current catalog. One of those from the current catalog is also one of my favorites, Kindness Matters. I love the realistic butterflies best.

This was a card I made for a Stampin' Addicts Sale-a-bration Swap using Kindness Matters.

All Supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Kindness Matters

Cardstock: Basic Black, Island Indigo, Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla

Paper: First Edition Specialty paper

Ink: Basic Black, Island Indigo, Crumb Cake

Other: Big Shot, Perfect Pennants Bigz die, Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder, Island Indigo Ribbon, 2-1/2" Circle Punch, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, 1" circle punch, dimensional

My Online Store

Thanks for stopping. Have a creative day!

Tutorial

2012-01-17T07:54:00.000-05:00

I put together a tutorial for yesterday's Travelocity Gnome. It is a brief tutorial, but I think it will work!

To begin you will need:

1. Big Shot and Perfect Pennant Bigz die cut:

Large Pennant in Whisper White for the beard
Large Pennant in Marina Mist for the body
Medium Pennant in Real Red for hat
Medium Pennant in Basic Black for boots

2. Punches for this first step:

Large Oval in Marina Mist
2 Small ovals in Basic Black
1 Small oval in Whisper White
1 Small oval in Blushing Bride
1 tiny circle in Blushing Bride - from Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack

3. Continue Punching!

4. Make one more punch for the mustache. Then cut the ovals shown.

5. Punch the eyes with the Owl Punch and the Belt Buckle with the circle punches shown.

6. Sponge the edges of the body and arms with Marina Mist ink.

Sponge the beard, mustache and eyebrows with Crumb Cake ink.

Sponge the face and nose with Blushing Bride ink.

Draw a line on the gnomes "coat" with a Marina Mist marker (fine point end of marker)

7. Use adhesive - Tombow Multi Purpose glue and Mini Glue Dots to assemble. Refer to sample below.

The sand is Naturals White cardstock that I tore and sponged with Crumb Cake ink.
The waves are Pool Party cardstock cut with the Big Shot and the scallop border of the Tasteful Trim Bigz die. I sponged them with Pool Party ink.
Sunglasses are 1/2" circles cut and added to strip of black cardstock. I added the reflection with a White Gel Pen.
Sun and sky were done by sponging Daffodil Delight ink and Tempting Turquoise ink on Glossy White cardstock.

Copied from original post: I am writing this with a gentle, kind tone. :) Please do not take offense or think I am a meanie.

There is always controversy about crediting other stampers when their work is CASE'd (Copy And Share Everything). Do you have to? Should you? After all they put it on the internet for all to see.

My own humble opinion: I think it is proper etiquette when copying another's creative design to give that person credit. Even if you change it a little bit! I also think it is the honest thing to do. I try to live by that rule myself.

That being said, there are times when I create something totally out of my head and then see something, almost exactly like mine that was created before mine! Yikes! And then I think, they probably think I copied them! And I didn't credit them! But I didn't copy them! It happens.

All I am saying after this rambling is please be considerate when you copy other people's artwork.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Summer Splash - retired

Paper: Glossy White, Marina Mist, Whisper White, Real Red, Basic Black, Crumb Cake, Blushing Bride, Naturals White, Pool Party

Ink: Daffodil Delight, Tempting Turquoise, Blushing Bride, Marina Mist, Crumb Cake, Real Red, Pool Party

Other: Big Shot, Tasteful Trim Bigz die, Perfect Pennant Bigz Die, Large and Small Oval Punches, Owl Punch, 1/2" Circle Punch, Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack, Jewelry Tag Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, Mini Glue Dots, Tombow Multi Purpose Glue, white Gel Pen, Sponges

My Online Store.

Thanks for your interest! Email me if you have any questions.

The Travelocity Gnome

2012-01-16T07:35:00.001-05:00

I don't know too much about the Travelocity Gnome other than he shows up on The Amazing Race television show every time someone wins a trip. I love that show and I love that gnome.

Our family (me, David, and 3 daughters) are going to be taking a trip in February to a warm, sunny, warm vacationland. Did I mention it will be warm?? And now that January is in full swing and the temperatures in Ohio and here in Massachusetts are brrr cold, we are all longing for vacationland.

To cheer them on (and up), I made a card for my daughters. It is supposed to be the Travelocity Gnome on The Beach.

I mainly used the Big Shot and Perfect Pennant Bigz die. I got the idea when I made the Silver Glimmer Christmas Tree seen in this post. As I was making the tree I kept seeing a gnome. Weird, I know. So I kept the idea in the back of my mind and now here he is. I used some punches too and I know what you are all thinking so....

I will post a picture tutorial so you can see how I made him. I can't promise it will be tomorrow but I will try.

ETA: I am writing this with a gentle, kind tone. :) Please do not take offense or think I am a meanie.

There is always controversy about crediting other stampers when their work is CASE'd (Copy And Share Everything). Do you have to? Should you? After all they put it on the internet for all to see.

All I am saying after this rambling is please be considerate when you copy other people's artwork.

Stay warm. Happy Monday.

Sending You Love

2012-01-15T07:41:00.000-05:00

Hi there. Today's card is a combination of two Stampin Addicts challenges. If you haven't heard of Stampin Addicts - it is a Stampin' Up! only website with a gallery and forums. You don't have to be a demonstrator to register; you just have to like Stampin' Up!!

Stampin Addicts Sketch Challenge #119 looks like this:

The Stampin Addicts Color Combo Challenge is: Real Red, Marina Mist, So Saffron, Old Olive.

My card uses the stamp set Easy Events - a set of 8 stamps each with a different image and saying. It is a perfect set for beginners or advanced stampers alike.

This card started off clean and simple. And then it began to morph into the card you now see. It just did not want to stay clean and simple so I am going to send it anyway. My youngest daughter needs some cheering up right now so I made it with her in mind. She is having car trouble - never fun, especially when you are on your own and 400 miles away from your dad. I get off easy because I know nothing about cars. Cards yes, cars no. One consonant makes alot of difference! lol.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Easy Events

Cardstock: Marina Mist, Whisper White, Crumb Cake, So Saffron

Paper: Just Eat Cake dsp, Red Glimmer Paper

Ink: Black Stazon, Marina Mist, Real Red, Old Olive, So Saffron(tree), Crumb Cake

Other: Aquapainter

Old Olive Ribbon and button

Linen Thread

Lace Border Punch

dimensionals

Big Shot and Perfect Pennants Bigz Die

My Online Store.

Have a blessed day.

Valentine Swap

2012-01-14T08:43:00.000-05:00

The title of this post is kind of a misnomer. My card is a swap and a Valentine but the swap was for the Occasions Mini catalog and it happens to contain a Valentine set. A Valentine set that can be used with non traditional colors for a non traditional purpose as seen Here.

I went with my classic layout and tried to add some new products to the card as well. Adorning Accents Edgelits and Embossing Folder and Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Details give the card a little something extra.

I think I have said it before and I will say it again - I am loving the Adorning Accent products. They are affordable and fun to use.

All Supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: P. S. I Love You - Occasions Mini

Cardstock: Riding Hood Red, Baja Breeze, Whisper White

Paper: Twitterpated dsp - Occasions Mini

Ink: Riding Hood Red, Baja Breeze

Other: Corner Rounder

Large and Small Heart Punch

Scallop Circle Punch

Circle punches

Modern Label Punch

White Bakers Twine

Big Shot

Adorning Accents Edgelits and Embossing Folder - Occasions Mini

Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Details - Occasions Mini

Dimensionals

Hope your Saturday is a good one. Enjoy the weekend!

Color Challenge

2012-01-13T08:50:00.001-05:00

I took on another challenge yesterday. This one is a color challenge, specifically Color Throwdown's Challenge #174. The colors:

The card.

This one is headed to Pennsylvania to my mom. She came down with Shingles. Yikes! I guess it is pretty painful from what she says. But she is on medication which helps. The bad part is my sister in law is pregnant so my mom can't be around her, my brother, or the grandchildren. Hopefully my card will cheer her up.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Just Believe, Delightful Dozen
Cardstock: Very Vanilla, Soft Suede, Pool Party, River Rock
Ink: Daffodil Delight, Soft Suede, River Rock
Other: Paper Piercer, Sponge, Big Shot, Framed Tulips embossing folder, 2-1/2" circle punch, 1-3/8" circle punch, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Decorative Label punch, Daffodil Delight and Very Vanilla Button, Mini Library Clip, Color Spritzer Tool

My Online Store.

Thank goodness it is Friday! Have a great day.

One of my favorite cards

2012-01-12T08:26:00.000-05:00

It is always nice when I receive a hand made card and it is especially nice when I receive one from a child - or in this case children.

I thought it would be fun to post the card I received yesterday from my 4 nieces and 1 nephew. They range in age from 2-1/2 up to 8 and are my brother's children. They made me this thank you card (for Christmas gifts) and it sure did make me smile. I love the random feathers on the side. "She" has feather hair extensions. :)

On other family news. My daughter decided for sure she wants to get married in Massachusetts. Since she lives in Ohio, this should be interesting! We are looking at an August wedding which will be a nice, warm time of year. I like that!

Enjoy the day. I will have one of my own projects for you tomorrow.

Revisiting an Old Technique

2012-01-11T08:18:00.001-05:00

I needed a challenge for my stamping yesterday since I was feeling like I was in a slump. I checked out the SUO Challenge website and found just what I needed! The challenge is to use a technique that you haven't used in a while. I had to think about that! And then I remembered an old technique that I used to demo alot but haven't used in a loooong time!

Poppin' Pastels - simple to do, and only uses Versamark Ink and Stampin' Pastels. That's it!

It was so much fun to dust off my pastels and create a card that shows off this easy technique. Thanks SUO Challenge Team for a great challenge!

The butterfly, flowers, swirl background, and the other 2 elements were all done by stamping with Versamark and then rubbing over the stamped images with pastels and a cotton ball. I only used 2 colors of Stampin' Pastels - Black and Cherry Cobbler. The pastels are not as "strong" of a color as their matching ink so it creates a softer look.

I framed the Basic Black cardstock with the Framed Tulips Embossing Folder for some texture. Then I continued using the Big Shot to die cut the Adorning Accents Frames. I am really loving this new product! Rather than cut the flowers with scissors I punched them with the Scallop Circle Punch. That was way easier!

I wasn't going to add the Large Basic Pearl because it creates bulk on a card that will be mailed but I just can't resist pearls and rhinestones on my cards. *sigh*

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Creative Elements

Cardstock: Pink Pirouette, Basic Black, Whisper White

Ink: Versamark

Other: Stampin' Pastels specifically Cherry Cobbler and Basic Black, Big Shot, Framed Tulips embossing folder, Labels Collection Framelits (Occasions Mini), Large Basic Pearl (Occasions Mini), Scallop Border Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, Corner Punch

My Online Store.

I would like to challenge all of you to try a technique that you haven't used in a while. Or maybe it's a technique that you have been eager to try. Whatever it is - try it! It's fun!
Thanks for stopping by.

Clean and Simple Thinking of You

2012-01-10T07:12:00.000-05:00

Well let me clarify. Today's card is definitely a Thinking of You card but I am not sure it totally qualifies as a clean and simple card. It has stitching which to some would be...well...not simple! You decide.

I do seem to love this layout. I find myself using it intentionally (and unintentionally) in various ways!

Tip: The scalloped border was not made with a punch but with the new Adorning Accents Edgelits and my Big Shot.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Bordering on Romance - Occasions Mini
Curly Cute

Cardstock: Whisper White, Blushing Bride
Ink: Blushing Bride, Riding Hood Red

Other: Big Shot, Adorning Accents Edgelits (Occasions Mini)
Basic Pearls, corner punch, Blushing Bride Pleated Ribbon (Occasions Mini)

My Online Store.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stained Glass

2012-01-09T07:45:00.001-05:00

One of the unsung products (in my opinion) in the Stampin' Up! catalog is Vellum. This thin, translucent paper can transform an ordinary card into an elegant card. Vellum also is needed for the Stained Glass Technique shown here on a card I made for my Control Freaks Occasions Mini swap. It is a little difficult to capture the look on camera so hopefully I can show you in the photos below.

Stained Glass Technique:

1. Stamp the vellum with Versamark and emboss with embossing Powder. I used White Embossing Powder.

The flowers were stamped in Baja Breeze on White cardstock. You can see in the finished card how these stamped images look soft and muted from behind the vellum.

2. Turn the embossed vellum over and color (on the back) with Stampin' Up! markers. I used 5 different colors using dark and light for shading. First I applied the dark color such as Island Indigo. Then I used the lighter color such as Baja Breeze to blend and shade.

Note: Wipe the lighter marker clean after blending.

3. Once all of the areas are colored, turn the vellum over so the embossing shows. You can hopefully see in the photo below the difference between the back and the front. I didn't finish coloring.

4. Layer the vellum over the cardstock and adhere on the back of the cardstock.

This is such a fun technique and can be done with any color embossing powder. Experiment. Have fun. And here is a link to a more detailed explanation on the Splitcoaststampers website.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: #125480 wm) Bordering on Romance - Occasions Mini

#125482 (cm)

Paper: #125406 Twitterpated dsp - Occasions Mini

ETA #101839 Vellum Paper

Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Blushing Bride, Whisper White

Ink: Versamark, Island Indigo, Baja Breeze, Riding Hood Red, Blushing Bride, Pear Pizzazz markers

Other: #125571 Baja Breeze Pleated Ribbon - Occasions Mini

#125579 Twitterpated Buttons - Occasions Mini

#125595 Adorning Accent Edgelit Die

#125601 Adorning Accent Embossing Folder

Big Shot

#109132 White Embossing Powder

#119871 Corner Punch

My Online Store.

Thanks for stopping by.

Bleached Sympathy

2012-01-08T08:05:00.000-05:00

I have said it before and I will say it again. Sympathy cards are always the most difficult to make. So much sadness surrounds them. With a pastor husband and a fairly large church (over 500), I need sympathy cards on a regular basis. This one will be sent to a gal who just lost her father. Sad story.

This was made by using Bleach and the stamp set Elements of Style. I love the old-fashioned look of Wisteria Wonder when it is bleached. It kind of reminds me of the Victorian Era. Bleaching is one of my favorite techniques because it is so easy and the results are unpredictable. For the how-to, just click here.

All supplies are Stampin' Up! - except the bleach.

Stamps: #118611 (wm) Elements of Style

#120045 (cm)

#113252 (wm) Thoughts and Prayers

Cardstock: Concord Crush, Wisteria Wonder

Ink: Concord Crush

Other: #122973 Wisteria Wonder Ribbon

#118480 Chantilly Crochet Trim

#118481 Victoria Crochet Trim

#119247 Basic Pearls

#119871 Corner Punch

My Online Store.

David and I went to a local Bridal Expo yesterday. Oh my. What an experience. lol. Poor David. I dragged the poor guy along because, after all, he knows way more about weddings than I do! He really didn't want to go at all - can you blame him - but agreed to accompany me. He tried to talk the ticket lady into allowing him to get in free since he's: 1. a guy and 2. He is already paying for the wedding. She just laughed of course and gave him kudos for trying.

We made our way through the entire building, "interviewing", registering our daughter for every give away we saw, and sampling the eatable goodies. I think David did so, just to justify the $8.00 ticket price. Lol. By the time we left, we had 2 bags of "stuff" and I had a headache! The good part was that we saw an old, dear friend of our daughters' and her mother. We haven't seen them in years - they saw us first - so we hugged and chatted and that was worth everything right there.

Bethany and her sisters were in Ohio of course. It would have been foolish for her to fly home since she just left last week. The funny part is the 3 of them spent the day going to a Bridal Expo there! I guess it is a popular week end for Bridal Expos! We will be comparing notes and decisions have to be made soon! Ohio? or Massachusetts? Stay tuned.

Have a blessed day.

Doily Snowman with some Bling

2012-01-07T07:41:00.000-05:00

This hip little ~~snowman~~ snowlady was so much fun to make! From the top of her beanie covered head to her round little bottom, she was stamped with the Delicate Doilies stamp set. Then I just added some Occasions Mini details before I sent her on her way!

I made the snow banks by diecutting white cardstock with the Adorning Accents edgelit. Then I added some Dazzling Details (still available) to not just the snow banks, but the snowlady and her buttons too.

Speaking of buttons, I love the little Twitterpated (seriously, that is their name) buttons from the Occasions Mini catalog. I think they are one of my favorite products - well those and a bunch of other things. lol.

Tip: The eyes and mouth are Basic Rhinestones that I colored with a Black Sharpie. They can really be made into any color as long as you have the sharpies to do so.

Oh, I almost forgot to mention, and I know you will be wondering. I made the sentiment in My Digital Studio. It is so easy to do and I can match Stampin' Up!'s colors as I did here. Once you have your text the way you want it, print it off. I tested it with paper before I sent the cardstock through.

All supplies are Stampin' Up! except the Sharpie.

Stamps: #122590 (wm) Delicate Doilies

#122592 (cm)

Cardstock: Whisper White, Baja Breeze

Ink: Blushing Bride, Baja Breeze

Other: #120906 2-1/2" Circle punch

#119859 1-3/4" Circle punch

#119860 1-3/8" Circle Punch

#119858 Boho Blossom Punch

#118309 Itty Bitty Shapes Punches

#120902 Northern Flurry Embossing Folder

#119246 Basic Rhinestones

#125595 Adorning Accents Edgelits Die - Occasions Mini

#125579 Twitterpated Buttons - Occasions Mini

#125570 Blushing Bride Pleated Satin Ribbon - Occasions Mini

#124117 Dazzling Details

Big Shot

Sponge, Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots

My Online Store.

Have a great weekend.

Happy Anniversary

2012-01-06T07:39:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my wedding anniversary and I wanted to make a card for my hubby of 32 years. He loves my hand-made cards and prefers the simpler ones. For him it is all about the color and what I write inside. :)

He loves blue so I decided to use the P.S. I Love You stamp set from the Occasions Mini catalog and turn it into a masculine anniversary card. I love when I can use a stamp set in more than one way!

The sketch is from Stampin' Addicts Sketch Challenge.

Another Occasions Mini product: The tiny embossed hearts along the bottom - Adorning Accents embossing folder. Love these 3 little folders.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: #125460 (wm) P. S. I Love You - Occasions Mini

#125462 (cm)

Cardstock: Night of Navy, Sahara Sand, Whisper White

Paper: #117154 Regals Collection Paper Stack

Ink: Night of Navy

Other: #125601 Adorning Accents Textured Impressions Embossing Folder - Occasions Mini

#109036 Night of Navy 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon

#119737 Regals Brads

#119883 Full Heart Punch

#119850 1-3/4" Circle Punch

#119871 Corner Punch

Big Shot

Dimensionals, Sponge

My Online Store.

We had a lovely anniversary day by the way. David had to work of course but we were able to go out for a lovely dinner and then had a relaxing evening at home together.

Happy Friday! The weekend is almost here.

Romantic Ribbon Flower

2012-01-05T07:48:00.002-05:00

Now that the Occasions Mini Catalog is live I can't wait to show some of the lovely things it has to offer. With the Vintage Trend still going strong, Stampin' Up! has lots to offer including the stamp set Bordering on Romance and the matching Twitterpated designer paper.

Today I wanted to show you a card I made using the new Pleated Satin Ribbon as the focal point. Available in 4 colors, I chose the color Blushing Bride to create a simple floral accent for my card.

Note: Another new item this season is the Adorning Accents Edgelit Dies to use with the Big Shot. That is what created the unique scallop at the bottom of my card.

My close up of the ribbon flower. To make this:

1. Punch a 1-3/8" circle of cardstock

2. Cover it as much as possible with Sticky Strip. Remove red strip.

3. Begin in the center of the circle, lay down the end of the pleated ribbon and wrap it around and around until the punched circle is covered. Cut the end.

4. Add embellishments such as a Basic Pearl or Basic Rhinestone.

No twisting is necessary because the ribbon is pleated! These can be made in any size really.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: #125480 (wm) Bordering on Romance - Occasions Mini

#125482 (cm) Bordering on Romance

#117014 (wm) Curly Cute

#120510 (cm) Curly Cute

Cardstock: Basic Gray, Blushing Bride

Ink: Basic Gray, Mahogany distressing ink

Paper: #125406 Twitterpated dsp - Occasions Mini

Other: #125595 Adorning Accents Edgelits Die - Occasions Mini

#125570 Blushing Bride Pleated Satin Ribbon - Occasions Mini

#119246 Basic Rhinestones

#114511 Little Leaves Sizzlits Die

#119860 1-3/8" Circle Punch

#119871 Corner Punch

#104294 Sticky Strip

Big Shot

Sponge

My Online Store

Hope your day is a creative one!

It's here! It's here!

2012-01-04T09:22:00.000-05:00

Yay! The Occasions Mini Catalog is now available for everyone and it is filled with lots of goodies! Take a look and see what I mean.

Occasions Mini (flash version)

Occasions Mini (pdf)

Occasions Mini Spanish sets

Supplies

Product Guide

If you would like to place an order, just visit my Online Store. Thanks for shopping with me.

Ivory and Black Thank You

2012-01-03T07:57:00.001-05:00

But first some reminders.

The holidays may be over but the Holiday Mini Catalog is not! Don't forget you only have today before it expires so if there are any last minute products you would like to order, now is the time!

Things to note.

Early Espresso Quilted Ribbon is no longer available.
Stocking Builder Punch will not be carried over so it is only available while supplies last!
Items that will be carried over can be found by clicking here.
Clearance Rack Blitz is still going on until January 5th. Click here to view the bargains.

And here is today's project. Something old, something new!

Tomorrow will be the first day to order from the Occasions Mini Catalog so I am giving you a little teaser: Framelits Dies for the Big Shot. They are what I used for the frames around the sentiment. These happen to be the first three sizes of a total of 6! And all 6 come together in one envelope.

Other supplies used

Stamp: #114484 Elegant Thank You - a single stamp

Paper: #122366 Mocha Morning Specialty Paper

#121878 First Edition Specialty Paper

Cardstock: Basic Black, Very Vanilla

Ink: Basic Gray

Other: #118480 Chantilly Crochet Trim

#119247 Basic Pearls

#122362 Lace Ribbon Border Punch

#119871 Corner Punch

#125598 Labels Collection Framelits - Occ. Mini

Dimensionals

Big Shot

My Online Store .

Thanks for stopping by!

A New Year and New Goals

2012-01-02T07:57:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

I don't like resolutions but I love goals! One of my goals this year is to try to post something everyday, or almost every day. I have to be realistic though. I probably won't achieve that goal because that is alot of posting, but I am going to try! Seriously, those who post everyday - you have my utmost admiration!

Since I don't really have any stamped projects to show you today, I want to show you how my kitten, Gideon, has grown. His story can be found here.

This is a picture I took back in August when Gideon was 4 months old. He is on my craft table in my plastic shoe box container of ribbon scraps. Awww isn't he so small and sweet?

Then he grew but still thinks he can fit in this same box of ribbon scraps. At 6 months (back in October), you can see he is stretching the box! And this is where he likes to spend his time while I stamp. I waste more ribbon because I end up cutting a new piece of ribbon even though my scrap container is full. I just hate to disturb him!

Apparently my daughters thought he would make a great reindeer cat for Christmas because they bought him this little get up. He was NOT happy. But oh how we laughed at the faces he made. This is the one where he held still long enough for us to snap a picture. He's such a good boy.

Later he retired to the hearth where he watched the festivities with a wary eye! No more reindeer costumes for him thank you very much!

Ah the joys of owning a kitten. I call him a kitten until he reaches one year old which won't be till April.

Don't worry, I do have a project to show you tomorrow. Until then, happy stamping!

Hop Along with the Stampin Addicts!

2011-12-30T08:26:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the Occasions Mini Blog Hop brought to you

by Stampin Addicts, a positively creative, positively Stampin' Up! website.

Friday, December 30 - January 1

The hop officially begins at noon today so all of the links may not be working just yet. Be sure to come back for lots of inspiration!

If you arrived here from Sara Mattson-Blume's blog, you are at the right place. Thanks for hanging in there - you are almost to the end! But don't worry if this is your first stop. The hop goes full circle just follow the links.

<------Previous Blog

Since every participant must choose a different Occasions Mini product to highlight, I chose the Simply Sent Create and Keep Kit. It is one of those products that you may just pass over - I know I would have! I am so glad I didn't because it makes such an awesome gift!!

The Create and Keep Kit contains:

A precut Organizer/Box that you assemble with Sticky Strip.
4 Colored Dividers
10 preprinted colored cards
10 designer Envelopes
Self Adhesive die cut accents

Rather than explain it - let me show you!!

This is the assembled box. I added the Pear Pizzazz Ribbon and Early Espresso button to show you how this gift can be "jazzed up" with your own embellishments. Ribbon and buttons are not included in the kit.

You can see the dividers with labeled tabs which separates the cards into 4 different categories. I added a fifth category to show you how this can be personalized to fit the need! The envelopes are in the back of the box and the little velcro tab in the front keeps it closed.

I had a blast creating the cards using the provided accents. No cutting or adhesive necessary!

All of the cards come with a pattern on the front - the backs are plain and the insides are white.

The die cut accents have a pattern as well. There are 5 colors: Pool Party, Calypso Coral, Daffodil Delight, Early Espresso and Pear Pizzazz

I had enough accents leftover to make one more card using regular cardstock (mine) for the base. I also added some Large Basic Pearls (also mine) from the Occasions Mini.

I plan on giving this adorable box of cards as a gift to my aunt but I can see it being a great card organizer for myself. It is also a perfect project for a new stamper or someone who thinks they aren't very creative. Lots of possibilities!!

Now on to the final inspirational stop of the Blog Hop - Yapha Mason's blog. Enjoy!

Next blog--------->

Until next time.

My favorite projects from 2011

2011-12-28T19:35:00.000-05:00

I have seen this done on other blogs in past years and always wanted to do it on my own blog. So here are some of my favorite projects from 2011.

#5 is my fireplace card. The blog post can be found here.

#4 is a clean and simple card I made using some designer paper and a stamp. The blog post can be found here.

#3 is a birthday card. I love this card! Blog post is here.

#2 is a water colored card. To read about it click here.

#1 - my favorite card of the year is hands down this birthday card. To see the other projects that coordinate with it go to this post.

I hope you enjoyed them! I look forward to creating for you in 2012! In the meantime......

A reminder: Stampin Addicts Occasions Mini Blog Hop this Friday, December 30th - Sunday, January 1st. It will feature a different product at each stop! Trust me. There will be lots of inspiration!

Thanks for stopping by!

A Belated Project

2011-12-27T08:37:00.000-05:00

Today's project is a Christmas one but I thought I would post it even though Christmas was 2 days ago!

I like to make something for each place setting when we have any holiday dinner as a family. This year I wanted to make something using the trendy paper rosettes that have been showing up everywhere for months and months now.

I had yet to make one (crazy I know) because they looked like alot of work. Now that we have the Simply Scored Scoring Tool they are supposedly easier to make! Well, I can officially tell you they are a breeze to make with the Scoring Tool! And lots of fun!

I went with Soft Suede and Very Vanilla colors for an elegant look. I did this because I love the Mocha Morning Specialty paper and wanted to use it for my rosette. The metallic look is soooo pretty especially framed with some Silver Glimmer Paper. Now I am not going to lie. That Silver Glimmer paper was a bear to fold and to attach. I don't think I would recommend edging it with that.

Once I made my rosette, I layered a star stamped with The Sounding Joy and an embossed vellum sentiment from the same set. Then I added some of the lovely Vanilla Velvet Ribbon from the Holiday Mini.

Don't forget that the Holiday Mini ends January 3rd so if there are any last minute purchase you need to make, you only have a short amount of time to do so!

The box is actually the Milk Carton made from Very Vanilla cardstock that I wheeled with Musical Notes. It goes so well with the stamp set! When die cutting the cardstock don't use the crease pad and you won't get well defined crease lines at the top which makes for a great little open ended box!

Side view which shows off the musical notes and the strip of paper and ribbon around the middle of the box. I filled these with some tissue paper and some mints. My family loved them.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: The Sounding Joy, Musical Notes Wheel

Paper: Very Vanilla, Silver Glimmer Paper, Mocha Morning Specialty dsp

Ink: Crumb Cake, Soft Suede

Other: Big Shot, Stars Bigz die, Milk Carton Die, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Very Vanilla Velvet Ribbon (Holiday Mini), Basic Rhinestone, Pewter Embossing Powder (Holiday Mini), Simply Scored Scoring Tool (Holiday and Occasions Mini)

I had a ball crafting with my youngest daughter who was home for an entire week before Christmas. I wish I could show you what she has been working on but it is a surprise for someone and I wouldn't want to ruin it. Maybe I will show you in a few weeks. She is amazing! My other two daughters came home the 4 days ago so I am utter bliss. Love those girls!

Petite Pocket Gift Card Holder

2011-12-24T08:08:00.000-05:00

One more Gift Card Holder for Christmas. My husband came home with 3 more gift cards to put in our daughters' stockings. Yikes! Nothing like last minute! So I scrambled to make holders using the Petite Pocket Bigz die.

Because the cards are for Friendly's restaurant (think yummy ice cream), I used the idea from this card, and made my gift card holders.

Front.

The little red and white "candies" were stamped with one of the stamps from Delightful Decorations. The cupcake and gingerbread man are from Got Treats stamp set.

Inside the Petite Pocket is the gift card.

And this is the back.

I didn't add any sparkles or bling - just plain and simple.

Stamps: Got Treats, Delightful Decorations

Paper: Whisper White

Ink: Wild Wasabi, Cajun Craze, Real Red, Pretty in Pink

Accessories: Big Shot, Petite Pocket Bigz die, 3/4" circle punch, Bakers Twine, brads

Thanks for looking!

Stitched Felt Gift Card Holders

2011-12-23T08:44:00.000-05:00

Today's projects are Gift Card Holders made with the Top Note Bigz die and the Stitched Felt from the Holiday Mini. I have 3 children so I made three gift card holders, each in a different color.

To make the fold, just fold a piece of cardstock (4.25 x 11) in half and place the fold a little bit towards the center of the Top Note die. Then when you run it through the Big Shot the fold doesn't get cut off.

Tip: Use Mini Glue Dots to add the Mini Jingle Bells. It is waaaay easier than threading them - no matter what you use as a threader!

I used the small background stamp, School Lines to stamp the inside. It makes it look more "official".

First Watch is one of their (and ours when we are in Ohio) favorite places to eat. Yummy food!

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Snow Much Fun, School Lines background

Paper: Wisteria Wonder, Marina Mist, Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White

Ink: Wisteria Wonder, Marina Mist, Cherry Cobbler, Black Stazon

Accessories: Big Shot, Top Note Bigz die, Aquapainter, Stitched Felt and Jingle Bells (Holiday Mini)

Have a wonderful day!

Jazzed up Gift Card Holder

2011-12-22T18:38:00.000-05:00

Yesterday's post was a Gift Card Holder I made to look like an ornament (scroll down to see it). After studying it a bit, I made some changes to jazz it up a bit. This is the improved version.

I rounded the corners and added some White Satin Ribbon with some retired Silver Cord. I also added Mini Jingle Bells but took them off because they just didn't look right.

I thought you might enjoy seeing the changes I made. I think it made a difference! Just go to yesterday's post for the original and for a peek at the inside.

I will have another project to show you tomorrow. Hope to see you then!

Last minute gift card holder

2011-12-20T21:28:00.000-05:00

Only a few days left till Christmas and I am still shopping for last minute gifts. Even though our daughters are adults in their twenties, they still love Christmas stockings! One of the things I always put in them are gift cards. And of course being a stamper I have to create a holder for each card.

Here is the one I made today. It is supposed to be an "ornament" with a card tucked inside.

The card is from Starbucks which I know doesn't fit the theme of the ornament. lol.

It was easy to make - here is how:

1. Die cut 2 Night of Navy circles with the Big Shot and Clear Circle Bigz die

2. Die cut 2 embossed Whisper White circles with Clear Circle Bigz die.

3. Cut a piece of Silver Glimmer Paper 2 3/8" x 3" and trim one edge with the Clear Circle die to get the curve. Fold in half.

4. Stamp the scene (with Versamark) in the center of one Night of Navy circle and emboss with Pewter embossing powder.

5. Hand trim one of the embossed white circles to create the "sand". I used another piece that I sponged and layered onto the first piece to give it more dimension.

6. Cut the other embossed white circle in half and attach it to the 2nd Night of Navy circle making a pocket for your gift card.

7. Punch holes in Silver Glimmer paper along fold and thread ribbon through the holes and tie into a knot on inside.

8. Adhere the folder Silver Glimmer paper to front of stamped circle and to the back of the other circle.

9. Stamp sentiment, punch, sponge and adhere.

Stamps: Come To Bethlehem
Paper: Whisper White, Night of Navy, Silver Glimmer Paper
Ink: Versamark, Night of Navy
Accessories: Big Shot, Snow Burst embossing folder, Clear Circle Bigz die, White grosgrain ribbon, Pewter Embossing Powder, Crop-a-dile

Thanks for stopping!

Tis the Season....

2011-12-16T16:36:00.001-05:00

Tis the season for:

Sales! If you are like me you love a sale and Stampin' Up! is offering a Clearance Rack Blitz!!

Go to my Online Store - Once there click the Shop Now button to order!

Tis the season for:

swaps, swaps, and swaps! Anytime there is an upcoming catalog - mini or other - I sign up for swaps because I love seeing other stampers' ideas. I tend to gravitate to certain colors and a certain style in my own stamping so swaps help me to think out of my comfort zone.

That being said, I have been stamping away working on my Occasions Mini Catalog swaps and Sale-a-bration swaps. I can't wait to show you!

Today's card is not a swap by the way. It is just a simple thank you card I made for a friend who placed an order. I used a stamp set called Got Treats. It is a set that hasn't seen much ink I am afraid but after seeing a cute card in a magazine it inspired me to ink up my Got Treats and create this card.

There is also a Sneak Peak on this card too!!

The sneak peak is an embossing folder that will be in the Occasions Mini catalog. There are 3 small folders in one - how fun is that! They make great texturized borders as seen here with the tiny hearts.

To make this card, I used markers to eliminate the sentiment on each stamp. Then I punched some little hearts from Red Glimmer Paper and added some Dazzling Details to the cupcake. I was going to leave it go at that but the cupcake need something else so I borrowed the cherry from Create a Cupcake stamp set.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Got Treats, Create a Cupcake

Paper: Melon Mambo, Cajun Craze, Whisper White, Red Glimmer Paper

Ink: Melon Mambo, Cajun Craze, Pretty in Pink

Other: Big Shot, Adorning Accents Embossing Folder (upcoming Occasions Mini), Heart punch, Dazzling Details (Holiday Mini), Crystal Effects

So glad you took the time to stop by!

More music for Christmas

2011-12-10T10:51:00.000-05:00

If you have been following my blog, you may remember these cards, and this card, all made with the Musical Notes Wheel. Today's card uses the aforementioned wheel and a Whisper White craft ink pad.

I used an ink pad and inked up the wheel then rolled it across the cardstock - no cartridge was necessary. I tried embossing which worked but it was VERY white - too much of a contrast for the look I was hoping for. I will probably use that in another card so look out! Lol.

Tip: Because craft ink doesn't dry immediately, I heat set it with my heat tool.

The star is second generation Night of Navy ink. In other words I stamped off first. The sentiment is full strength Night of Navy stamped right over the star. The Sounding Joy stamp set is perfect for this method.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Musical Notes Wheel, The Sounding Joy (Holiday Mini)

Paper: Brushed Silver, Whisper White, Night of Navy

Ink: Versamark, Whisper White Craft Ink, Night of Navy

Other: Silver Brads, White Baker's Twine

Have a wonderful weekend and thanks for stopping!

A Glittery Frame

2011-12-07T06:55:00.000-05:00

I discovered Stampin' Up!'s Glimmer Paper makes a lovely frame around a simple stamped image! And best of all it uses up scraps of the precious glittery paper!

Here is what I mean.

First I stamped and colored my image. In this case I used the darling berry stamp from the set, Easy Events. This is a terrific stamp set for all occasions!

Once I had my image all set to go, I just adhered strips of Silver Glimmer Paper around the edges. Easy to make, easy to mail. My kind of card! Lol!

All supplies are Stampin' Up! If you would like to order anything from my Online Store, you may do so by clicking Here.

Stamps: Easy Events

Paper: Wild Wasabi, Whisper White, Silver Glimmer Paper

Ink: Black Stazon, Wild Wasabi, Real Red

Thanks for stopping by!

Joy

2011-12-05T07:29:00.000-05:00

I am on a roll with the Musical Notes Wheel. No pun intended. Lol. I just really, really like the way a little bit of music coordinates with our Christmas stamps!

Today's card is a good example of that.

I inked up the Christmas Collage background stamp with some Soft Suede ink and stamped on Very Vanilla cardstock. Then I just trimmed off the section I wanted. At first I was going to let it just plain but I added some color to the holly. Then I got the idea to emboss it with the rectangle Designer Frame textured Impressions Embossing Folder. A little sponging with Soft Suede made the frame show up a little better.

For the musical notes, I used Soft Suede ink and the Musical Notes Wheel. I am having so much fun with that wheel! Since the words to the carol, "Silent Night" are my focal image, the musical notes are very appropriate.

The sentiment, Joy, is actually from the stamp set, The Sounding Joy. I tried using the "Joy" from the Christmas Collage background but the words New Year are part of that area of the stamp. I didn't think it looked right. Yes, I could have used markers but why go to all that trouble when I have the beautiful Joy stamp already?

If you would like to make this card and need the supplies, feel free to visit my Online Store found here.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!
Stamps: Christmas Collage background, The Sounding Joy (Holiday Mini), Musical Notes Wheel
Paper: Always Artichoke, Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla, Crumb Cake
Ink: Soft Suede, Cherry Cobbler, Always Artichoke
Other: Big Shot, Designer Frames tief, Aquapainter, Cherry Cobbler Quilted Ribbon (Holiday Mini), sponge, Antique Brad

Happy Monday. May it be the beginning of a wonderful week!

Add a little bit of music

2011-12-03T08:37:00.000-05:00

I have been noticing alot of seasonal cards this year using musical notes. So I thought I would play around with my Music Notes Wheel to make a background.

I wish Stampin' Up! would make a Musical notes background stamp! I think I will suggest it to them!

Just like yesterday's cards (found HERE), I made two versions: cheap to mail, and the extra postage version.

Cheap to mail version - again, I love the simplicity and the fact that it can stand on its own.

I originally intended for the center to be straight but ended up adhering it at an angle.

And, the extra postage version. I originally had 2 buttons in the corner but I just wasn't loving it so I went with just the one button and a bit of linen thread.

I did end up using the Tea Stain Distressing Ink for some sponged on vintage look.

Stamps: Bells and Boughs, Curly Cute, Music Notes Wheel

Paper: Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla, Basic Black, Well Worn dsp

Ink: Crumb Cake, Tea Stain Distressing Ink, Black Stazon, Garden Green, Riding Hood Red

Other: Aquapainter, button, linen thread, sponge

Have a wonderful weekend!

Two versions of a thank you

2011-12-02T15:02:00.002-05:00

Wow. I finally got a chance to stamp! I really needed to make some thank you cards so I had to set aside everything else and get to it! I even came up with 2 versions: mailable (read - no bumps) at no extra charge, and mailable but for an extra fee due to bumps.

This is the first version.

I really like it because even though their are no buttons, bows or brads, it is still fancy. That is what makes punches and the Big Shot indispensable in my opinion!

This is the jazzed up version with a bow and button.

I was a little hesitant to use my aquapainter on Very Vanilla cardstock but it worked just fine. I was careful to use the water at a minimum to prevent warping. To achieve the intense color around the berries I used a marker straight to the paper. Then I picked up some ink from the ink pad with my aquapainter and added some "thinned out" color. The berries are pure marker.

Stamps: Bells and Boughs, Curly Cute

Paper: Very Vanilla, Cherry Cobbler, Regals Paper Stack dsp

Ink: Always Artichoke, Garden Green, Cherry Cobbler, Real Red, and Black Stazon

Other: Big Shot, Elegant Lines embossing folder, Cherry Cobbler Quilted Ribbon, Aquapainter, Scallop Edge Border Punch, Corner Rounder Punch, Button, Cherry Cobbler Bakers Twine, Lace Ribbon Border Punch

Thanks for stopping. Happy Friday!

November was a busy month!

2011-11-30T12:52:00.000-05:00

There has been lots going on in my life this past month. First, David, myself, and 14 others took a 10 day trip to ...... can you guess by looking at the picture??

This is a picture of Jerusalem, Israel

Yes! We went to Israel which was a dream come true for us. I highly recommend going if you possibly can. My favorite parts were seeing Jerusalem for the first time - very moving - and sitting quietly in a boat on the Sea of Galilee. The entire trip was wonderful: spiritually, culturally, and politically. We learned alot!

After we came home from Israel, we regrouped and took off for 8 days in Pennsylvania and Ohio - mainly Ohio. We had wonderful family time with our daughters which made it difficult to leave. But they are all coming home for Christmas so I will see them again!

Their cats were not too happy about being photographed! Lol.

Now I am home for a while thank goodness. I have neglected my stamping and my blog for which I apologize! I do have a card to show you today.

Super simple to make!

Stamps: Young Vermillion, Four the Holidays

Paper: Red Glimmer Paper, Whisper White

Ink: Real Red, Black Stazon, SU markers

Other: Aquapainter

Reminder: Today is the last day of the Online Extravaganza. Click Here to go to my Online Store for some great bargains.

Thanks for following along!

Online Extravaganza - up to 60% off

2011-11-21T08:23:00.000-05:00

Up to 60 % off on current products!

Please note: TODAY ONLY - Simply Scored (# 122334), and Sweet Cookie Press (#125152), are both 20% off! Woo Hoo!!

The other deals are good until November 30th.

Go to my Online Store found HERE to check it out.

Or here is the PDF with everything listed.

Things to Remember:

Simply Scored and Sweet Cookie Press sale ends midnight Nov. 21
All other deals good for 10 days.
Discounts range from 20% to 60%
No minimum purchase is required.
For Product Bundles - you must use the # for the bundle in order to get the discount.
Additional products from the catalog can be purchased on same order.

Enjoy!

Pennant Parade for Christmas

2011-11-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

I know you don't really think of brown for Christmas so you could make this a non Christmas card - just change the sentiment and don't use the stars on top of the trees. But for me, I don't mind brown on my Christmas cards - it gives it a woodland, natural look.

I used the Pennant Parade stamp set and coordinating Petite Pennants Builder Punch to make the trees. The stamp set includes a cute little flower pot to use with the trees but I wanted plain ole tree trunks so I used cardstock that I cut myself.

Can you believe I forgot I even had the Very Vanilla Stitched Velvet Ribbon??! It is found in the Holiday Mini. Well I pre-ordered it, used it a few times, and then it "disappeared". I suspect a certain furry, purry critter was playing with it. lol. So out of sight, out of mind I guess! Anyway, I am so glad I found it because it really is a lovely ribbon.

After I made the card and stepped back to look at it I felt it needed something in the upper left corner. I had a piece of embossed cardstock in my stash so I punched a circle from it, trying to center the medallion type image. Voila, a moon!

Stamps: Pennant Parade, Woodgrain background

Paper: Crumb Cake, Wild Wasabi, Very Vanilla, Mocha Morning Specialty dsp, Chocolate Chip cardstock

Ink: Soft Suede, Wild Wasabi

Accessories: Basic Pearls, Corner rounder Punch, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Punch, Petite Pennants Builder Punch, Circle punch, Big Shot, Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder, sponge, Very Vanilla Stitched Velvet Ribbon (Holiday Mini)

Happy Saturday, Happy Stamping!

Quick and Easy Kindness Matters

2011-11-17T06:56:00.001-05:00

Another swap card today. This one was a Stampin' Addicts swap and is supposed to be easy to duplicate. So if you are new to stamping or need a quick thank you card, this is the card for you! Of course the designer paper does most of the work. Ha!

Stamps: Kindness Matters

Paper: Melon Mambo, Whisper White, Daffodil Delight, Flirtatious Specialty dsp

Ink: Melon Mambo, Pumpkin Pie

Accessories: Basic Pearl, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Punch

Thanks for looking!

A belated color challenge

2011-11-15T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello there stampers!

Today's card was made a few weeks ago for a Create with Connie and Mary color challenge. It was done, photographed and uploaded. I just had to write the post. Then we got pounded with snow, lost our electricity and internet for days and I never got a chance to participate in the challenge. I hate when that happens. lol.

The color combination is not one I would have come up with on my own: Rich Razzleberry, Baja Breeze and Island Indigo! I combined it with an "adjusted sketch". What is an adjusted sketch you ask? I saw a sketch challenge - too long ago now to remember where - and adjusted it to fit the card I had in mind.

Interesting color combination, interesting sketch. I like how it came together!

Stamps: Aviary, Perfectly Penned

Paper: Baja Breeze, Whisper White, Rich Razzleberry,

Ink: Baja Breeze, Rich Razzleberry, Island Indigo

Other: Pool Party brad, Island Indigo Ribbon, Big Shot, Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder, Eyelet Border punch

Have a wonderful, creative day!

The evolution of a card

2011-11-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

This is one of those cards that randomly evolved. I found the embossed frame in my stash and really didn't want to throw it away so I built the card around it! Crazy!

The background, focal image, and sentiment are from the stamp set, My Friend. Once I stamped the background I wanted some texture so I embossed it with the Elegant Lines embossing folder. I had the Lattice also sitting in my stash so that went on next. After I stamped and framed the main image, I decided it needed more Blushing Bride so I added the punched flowers but I don't know if you have noticed - those little flowers always seem to need a pearl in the center! I always go for the odd number, so I added a pearl to one of the stamped flowers too. When I stepped back and looked at the card, I realized it could use some more Blushing Bride - thus the ribbon. Hmm. I debated over adding the sentiment. I wanted a sentiment, but where to put it?? It seemed to fit best under the frame. And, as an afterthought, I included 2 more pearls - on the lattice this time. I am not sure they were necessary but I love those Basic Pearls, so they stayed!

Stamps: My Friend

Paper: Basic Black, Whisper White, Certainly Celery

Ink: Certainly Celery, Blushing Bride

Other: Big Shot, Designer Frames Embossing Folder, Elegant Lines Embossing Folder, Lattice Bigz die, Basic Pearls, Blushing Bride Ribbon, Itty Bitty Punch Pack

Have a blessed day!

Established Elegance with Embossed Key

2011-11-11T07:02:00.005-05:00

I have had this swap card in my "waiting to be posted" pile. It is a card I made for a New Catalog swap. I love to make collage style cards and the the Established Elegance stamp set is perfect for

collage.

When I make a swap card I always try to do something a little bit different. In this case I added some shimmer paint to the embossed background and the edges of all the different elements. Plus, I embossed the key with gold embossing powder to give it a more authentic look.

Stamps: Established Elegance
Paper: Perfect Plum, Very Vanilla, Crumb Cake, Mocha Morning Specialty paper
Ink: Perfect Plum, Versamark
Accessories: Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint, Gold Embossing Powder, Very Vanilla Seam Binding ribbon, Itty Bitty Punch Pack, Decorative Label Punch, Oval Punch, circle Punch, Word Window Punch, Big Shot, Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder, Scallop Squares Duo Bigz die

Thanks for stopping by!

Field Flowers and Fall Foliage

2011-11-09T06:59:00.001-05:00

Hi stampers!

I wanted to make a few more autumn cards before the snow flies - again. :) I managed to make one more so far. When I first looked at the new catalog back in July, I was really attracted to the stamp set, Field Flowers so it was one of the first that I purchased. I still love it but I haven't used it much. So for this card I combined it with the Fall Foliage stamp set, some autumn colors and made, what I think is at least, an autumn card.

First I stamped the background with Fall Foliage. Then I stamped my flowers on a piece of Well Worn designer paper. I like how the pattern in the dsp added some visual interest to the flowers. This was a very easy card to make - the hardest part was attaching the tag to the button to the ribbon which really wasn't hard at all!

Stamps: Field Flowers, Fall Foliage, Tiny Tags

Ink: Old Olive, Cajun Craze, Early Espresso

Paper: Old Olive, Early Espresso, Well Worn dsp

Accessories: Button, Jewelry Tag Punch, Linen Thread, Old Olive Satin Ribbon, sponge

Enjoy the day!

Made for You

2011-11-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday!

We are finally getting back to normal after a week of "not normal". Click Here if you want to read about it. Hopefully this week we will get the rest of the limbs and branches cleaned up in our yard. The wild birds in our yard seem a little discombobulated because of the downed limbs. I think they can't figure out what happened to their perches!

Speaking of birds - I just love the little bird image in the Best of Everything stamp set. Of course I have this thing for bird stamps and it's not like I love birds. I like them, sure. But I don't love them. I just think this little bird is so cute and I wish there were sentiments with this stamp set, such that when stamped, they looked like they were coming from his open ~~mouth~~ beak.

Instead of stamping a background on this card I used a border stamp from Borderlines stamp set. This particular one goes quite well with the Best of Everything set. That is one of the things that I love about Stampin' Up!. Things coordinate so well.

I had some frayed Striped Grosgrain Ribbon hanging around so I added that to the card for interest. Actually I added quite a few details for interest: Stitching, splattering, and embellishments!

Stamps: Best of Everything, Borderlines

Paper: Soft Suede, Cajun Craze, Very Vanilla

Ink: Soft Suede, Cajun Craze

Other: Cajun Craze Striped Ribbon, Color Spritzer Tool, button, Itty bitty punch pack, basic pearl, sponge, dimensionals, Curly Label Punch, Blosson Bouquet punch, oval punch

Thanks for stopping by.

The things we take for granted.

2011-11-04T10:01:00.000-04:00

Yay!!!! We have electricity again.... and phone, and internet! The electricity came on, heated the house, then went off again, but is now on again and holding steady. It feels so good to be warm again - I felt like a reptile. lol. First a Tornado, then an Earthquake, then Hurricane Irene, now Snowtober. Enough already!

I would like to add that we are very, very thankful for the reinforcements that came from other states and Canada. They, as well as the local companies, have been working round the clock to get Western Massachusetts and Connecticut back to "normal".

Coffee! We have 6 Dunkin Donut coffee stores in the city but only 1 was functioning the day after the storm. They must have had a generator. The line went out the door, across the parking lot, and down the street! I couldn't get a picture of the line down the street. I can only imagine how long they waited for their coffee.

McDonalds. We have 2 McDonalds and multiple other fast food restaurants but only 1 was operating the morning after the snow storm. Cars were lined up forever! Same for the one gas station that was operating.

The irony of it all is that I had just made this card and was in the process of posting it to my gallery over at Stampin' Addicts website (for their Stamp Jam), when we were plunged into darkness due to the wet, heavy snow. Next Stamp Jam, I think I will make a Summer type card - maybe a beach theme. Ha ha.

I embossed the background with White Craft ink and White Embossing Powder to make those "snowflakes" more prominent. They do look wet and heavy don't they? The snowman and snowball were stamped on watercolor paper, then cut out. Tip: I hand drew the music notes with my Basic Black Stampin Write Journaler.

Of course I had to add some glittery Dazzling Details to make the snow sparkle!

Stamps: Snow Much Fun, Distressed Dots background
Paper: Pool Party, Whisper White, Watercolor Paper
Ink: Whisper White Craft, Black Stazon, SU Markers
Accessories: White EP, Dazzling Details (Holiday Mini), dimensionals, sponge, Basic Black Stampin Write Journaler, Big Shot, Northern Frost Strip, White Brad

Happy Friday!

Snowstorm in October!

2011-11-02T13:14:00.000-04:00

We are still without power/phone/internet due to the massive snow storm that hit us October 29th! I finally found a place with wifi - thus the quick post. If I don't post for a while that is why! But at least we are safe and reinforcements have arrived from other states to help our city and surrounding areas get electricity. Friday at the latest is what we are hearing for restored power. We'll see.

Here is a picture of our street on the first day. You can see our neighbors house through the debris. The debris/downed limbs are in our street. Fortunately the wires caught them or they would have fallen on us!

Here is the view from the end of the street. One of many streets in our city with wires and trees down.

Stampin Addicts Sketch Challenge

2011-10-29T08:40:00.000-04:00

It has been ages since I participated in a challenge, any challenge. If you need to be motivated or just can't find your creativity, a Challenge just may do the trick. I know they really help me because I find myself reaching for the same colors and using the same sketch way too much.

So today's card uses this week's Sketch Challenge on the Stampin Addicts web site. If you aren't familiar with Stampin Addicts, it is a Stampin' Up! Only (Non Demos and Demos) website with forums and a gallery and a positive attitude. If you have time, I would encourage you to check it out.

I loved this sketch because it is so different from the norm. And it was easy to create!

Details:

The border was stamped with one of the three borders in the Borderlines stamp set. This is a set that is easily overlooked in the catalog (pg. 148) because it looks like a Wheel.
The designer paper was cut by using the Big Shot and Perfect Pennants Bigz die
The image was stamped on Watercolor paper, then cut out and attached with dimensionals
The Paper Piercer was used to add a circle around the center circle. I just eyeballed it.

Stamps: Borderlines (wm 122640; cm 122642); Always Thankful (wm 123787; cm123789) from Holiday Mini

Paper: Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Pie, So Saffron cardstock; Watercolor Paper; Paisley Petals dsp

Ink: Black Stazon, So Saffron; Stampin' Up! markers

Other: Big Shot, Perfect Pennants Bigz die; Buttons, Linen Thread; Paper Piercer, dimensionals, Aquapainter; 2 1/2" Circle Punch

Have a wonderful weekend!

Clear Block Stamping with French Foliage

2011-10-28T07:22:00.000-04:00

I needed a simple thank you card - simple and mailable - so I took out my French Foliage stamp set and created this.

One of the easiest techniques is using a clear acrylic block as a stamp. It doesn't stamp a solid image because of the nature of the block but some blocks will pick up more ink than others. It is a fun, funky way to use those clear blocks! Once the block is stamped, just stamp any solid image right over the top.

For my card, I inked up the leaf stamp with Old Olive and then rolled the stamp in some More Mustard just to add some "fall" color.

Note: I used Confetti Cream cardstock for the base. It has these lovely green flecks in it which is perfect for an autumn card - or Christmas as seen Here.

Stamps: French Foliage, Fabulous Phrases

Paper: Confetti Cream, Sahara Sand, Old Olive, More Mustard, More Mustard dsp

Ink: Sahara Sand, Old Olive, More Mustard

Accessories: Clear Acrylic Block, More Mustard Dotted Ribbon, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Modern Label Punch

Happy Friday!

Old fashioned thank you

2011-10-26T07:54:00.000-04:00

I needed another thank you for another co- worker. This time it was for our Administrative Assistant. I figured she would love the old fashioned typewriter image from Established Elegance stamp set. She told me she learned to type on one of these babies so she loved the card. I'm not sure those memories of banging away on her old Royal were good memories though. Lol.

This card is pretty straight forward so I will just give the supplies and be done!

Please feel free to visit my Online Store if you see something you would like to order.

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes, Established Elegance

Ink: Basic Black

Paper: Real Red, Very Vanilla, Basic Black, First Editions dsp

Other: Basic black striped ribbon, Antique Brad, Scallop Trim Border punch, brads, Hobby Blade, Big Shot, 3" circle die, Mini Glue dots

Thanks for stopping. Have a wonderful creative day!

Goose on chair and where did the basket go?

2011-10-24T08:31:00.000-04:00

I hope you had a good weekend. I sure did!

Today's card is another Christmas/holiday card but could easily be used for any occasion. Just remove the Stitched Felt Holly. I will be using it as a thank you card come Christmas time.

If you have the Cherish Friendship stamp set you may have noticed that the stamp image of the chair also has a basket on said chair. I wanted to put the goose on the chair, tie a bow around its neck and make a holiday card out of it. You know - a country goose kind of look.

First I stamped, colored and cut out my goose. That way I could figure out where on the chair I wanted him/her to go.

To "remove" the basket, I did a simple masking technique. First I placed a small piece of sticky note on the side of the chair to mask the foliage. Then I stamped my image on another piece of sticky note and cut out the basket, placed it on my stamp and with the stamp image facing up I inked it with Black Stazon. IMPORTANT: remove the sticky notes before you stamp!!

Once it was stamped on watercolor paper I used my Black Stampin Write Journaler to carefully draw the missing lines on the chair's back. Don't worry it was easy to do and the Journaler is permanent ink so it didn't smear when I colored.

I used Stampin' Up! Markers to color and blended a little Crumb Cake with a blender pen where the goose's head is. The head blended in with the background too much so I added that little bit of shading.

To attach the goose to the chair I used dimensionals.

And that, my friends, is where the basket went. The Stripes textured impressions embossing folder is one of my favorites for backgrounds such as this. To add definition to the stripes, just lightly swipe a sponge back and forth.

Visit my Online Store by Clicking Here if you would like to place an order.

Stamps: Cherish Friendship, Pretty Postage

Paper: Real Red, Chocolate Chip, Crumb Cake, Watercolor Paper, Well Worn dsp

Ink: Black Stazon, SU Markers, Basic Black Stampin Write Journaler

Accessories: Big Shot, Stripes tief, sponge, dimensionals, Blender Pen, brads, 1/8" Real Red Ribbon, mini glue dots, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Punch, Stitched Felt Holly (Holiday Mini)

Thanks for stopping!

French Foliage Emboss Resist

2011-10-22T08:59:00.000-04:00

Emboss Resist is such a fun technique. And it is easy! Just stamp the images with Versamark, then emboss with Clear embossing powder. After that is done, sponge (or brayer) the colors of your choice. Don't forget to "buff" the embossed images to remove any ink.

Yesterday a Christmas card, today I am back to Autumn. This was a thank you for one of my co-workers. He's a guy so I didn't want it to be too froo, frooey (my made up word. lol).

Visit my Online Store by Clicking Here if you would like to place an order.

Stamps: French Foliage, Thanks You Kindly

Paper: Cajun Craze, Very Vanilla, Crumb Cake cardstock

Ink: Versamark, Cajun Craze, Old Olive, More Mustard

Other: Clear Embossing Powder, Twine, Library clip, Gold brads, corner rounder punch

Thanks for visiting. Have a wonderful weekend!

Perfect Pennant Christmas

2011-10-21T12:37:00.000-04:00

I was in the Christmas mood today. I think it's because I went shopping yesterday and everywhere I went I was confronted with Christmas! What happened to Halloween and Thanksgiving? So after seeing all of the Christmas decor, I became convinced I need to get going on my Christmas Cards! I don't send many - just close family - but I do send alot of Christmas thank you cards.

I still love the vintage look and pulled out the background set, Christmas Collage and it's companion set, Bells and Boughs. Both sets work separately - I just chose to combine them for this card.

First I die cut my Christmas Tree with the Big Shot and Perfect Pennant Bigz die. Once it was cut, I used the Christmas Collage background stamp and stamped the largest pennant. The tree stand one of the other smaller pennants, trimmed to fit.

For my background I used Confetti Cream cardstock. I only have a few sheets left because I haven't used it in years. Seriously! It is a lovely cardstock: creamy with a green fleck throughout. I am so glad I discovered it again. Lol. The stamped images are from the Bells and Boughs stamp set as well as the Music Notes Stampin Around Wheel.

I was going to keep this card flat and mailable but I couldn't resist the Antique Brad at the top. Oh well, I will just have to pay the extra postage my post office will require. :)

See anything you like? Click Here for my Online Store.

Stamps: Christmas Collage Background, Bells And Boughs, Music Notes Stampin Around Wheel

Paper: Always Artichoke, Confetti Cream

Ink: Always Artichoke

Other: Very Vanilla Seam Binding Ribbon, Antique Brad, Big Shot, Perfect Pennants Bigz die, sponge, Wide Oval Punch, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Snow Burst embossing folder (Holiday Mini)

Thanks for stopping. Hope its a great day!

Big Shot Blog Hop!

2011-10-14T08:41:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the Stampin Addicts Big Shot Blog Hop, featuring the Big Shot and the wonderful things you can make with it! Best of all this Hop coincides with the Stampin' Up! October Big Shot special - receive a FREE Big Shot!

Please note that the Hop begins at noon so all of the links may not be working just yet. Be sure to come back because this could be the best Blog Hop yet!

If you came from Yapha Mason's blog, you are at the right place. Didn't she do a fabulous job with the Matchbox Die?! If you just joined the hop, don't worry. The Blog Hop goes full circle - just follow the links.

<-------- Previous Blog

I am featuring the Box #2 Bigz XL Die, a die I happen to love and use alot!

My first project was inspired by Tammy Fite's Halloween treat box. It uses the Box #2 as its base. I used the Winter Wishes Stitched Felt wreath from the Holiday Mini and made mine a Christmas treat box! And best of all, it is so easy to make!

Stamps: Four the Holidays

Paper: Wild Wasabi, Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla, Cherry Cobbler dsp

Ink: Cherry Cobbler

Accessories: Wild Wasabi Striped Ribbon, Oval Punch, sponge, Winter Wishes Stitched Felt (Holiday Mini)

Other: Big Shot, Box #2 Bigz XL Die

My next project uses the Box #2 in a vertical position.

I used the Perfect Pennants Bigz L die and Silver Glimmer Paper to make a sparkly Christmas tree for the front of my Box #2. Elegant but simple, it is perfect for the Holidays.

Paper: Brushed Silver, Whisper White, Silver Glimmer Paper

Accessories: White Satin Ribbon, Eyelet Border Punch, Sticky Strip

Other: Big Shot, Box #2 Bigz XL Die, Perfect Pennants Bigz L Die

Halloween is just around the corner and the Box #2 is perfect for this treat container. I punched out the center, added a piece of Window Sheet and filled it with candy. To make it even more special, I added a stamped piece of Shimmery White cardstock to the back!

Stamps: Haunted Forest (Holiday Mini)

Paper: Elegant Eggplant, Shimmery White, Cajun Craze dsp

Ink: Black Stazon, Elegant Eggplant, Chocolate Chip, Cajun Craze, More Mustard

Accessories: Wide Oval Punch, Window Sheet, Chocolate Chip Ribbon, Brads, Corner Rounder Punch, Sponge, Sticky Strip, Dazzling Details (owl's and cat's eyes)

Other: Big Shot, Box #2 Bigz XL Die

One more project - a card file for 3 x 3 cards! Again, the Box #2 is the base.

The sides are 1/4 sheets of cardstock covered with dsp. And to jazz it up, I added a flower made with the Big Shot and the Fun Flowers Bigz L Die!

The Card File holds at least five 3 x 3 cards and envelopes. To make them, I used all 5 of the new In Colors - ink, cardstock, ribbon, and brads!

Stamps: Four Frames, Teeny Tiny Wishes

Paper: Pool Party, Island Indigo, Calypso Coral, Lucky Limeade, Wisteria Wonder, Very Vanilla, First Edition Specialty dsp

Ink: Basic Black, Pool Party, Island Indigo, Calypso Coral, Lucky Limeade, Wisteria Wonder

Accessories: In Color Ruffled Ribbon, In Color Printed Brads, Oval Punch, Decorative Label Punch, dimensionals, sponge

Other: Big Shot, Box #2 Bigz XL Die, Fun Flowers Bigz L Die

Thanks for stopping by. The next stop on the Big Shot Blog Hop is Holly P.'s blog where she will entertain and inspire you with the Petite Pocket Die.

Next Blog------->

I hope you will stop in again sometime!

Shabby Chic Creative Elements

2011-10-11T09:01:00.000-04:00

I just had the best weekend! My brother, his wife, and their children were here for the holiday weekend. We had so much fun and the weather actually cooperated with lots of sunshine! Boy are we tired though! And Gideon, our now big kitten was great with the children. He had a blast playing with them. Good times!

I do have a card to show you today. It was inspired by a book cover I saw. I don't have a photo of the book because it was in a woman's hand. I didn't want to unnerve her by asking if I could take a picture of the front of her book because I wanted to make a card. :)

I sponged on the ink, then stamped some images from Creative Elements stamp set. I thought it needed something else so I added Log Cabin Smooch Spritz which kind of got away from me! The bottom left corner took a big hit of Smooch Spritz so I roughed up the edges a bit.

There are 3 layers of ribbon: Crumb Cake Seam Binding Ribbon, Calypso Coral Ruffled Ribbon, and the Chantilly Crochet Trim.

If you would like to place an order, click here to go to my Online Store.

Stamps: Creative Elements, Teeny Tiny Wishes

Paper: Pool Party, Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla

Ink: Island Indigo, Calypso Coral, Pool Party, Crumb Cake, So Saffron, Mahogany (Distressing Elements Kit), Log Cabin Smooch Spritz

Other: Antique Brad, Vintage Trinkets, Chantilly Crochet Trim, Calypso Coral Ruffled Ribbon, Crumb Cake Seam Binding Ribbon, Distressing Elements Kit, sponge, Sticky Strip

Thanks for stopping by. And don't forget this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday is the Stampin Addict Blog Hop! Everyone is featuring something made with the Big Shot!

Don't have a Big Shot but wish you did? Now is your chance! Click here to see how you can get one for FREE!

Puppy Punch Art Birthday Card

2011-10-08T09:45:00.000-04:00

My niece's third birthday was the last week in September so I wanted to make her a Sound Card. I had made each of her siblings one so it was only fair that I made one for her too!

Because my family lives many hours away, I don't get to be there when they celebrate birthdays. That is one reason I love the Stampin' Up! Sound Cards. I can record a personal message to make the card even more special!

My brother's family are dog lovers to the max. They have 4 dogs at the moment so I thought it would be fun to create a birthday card using Punch Art. Today's card was inspired by this video tutorial. I changed it up a bit to make it look like my brother's Greater Swiss Mountain Dog.

I did use some retired paper from the 2010 Occasions Mini because it is glittery - perfect for a little girl's birthday card!

The puppy is a series of punched circles and ovals trimmed and folded. I added a little birthday present made from Red Glimmer Paper and White Organza Ribbon.

The sentiment is punched and has a layer of Red Glimmer Paper behind it. This can be done by just punching 2 Decorative Labels, cutting them in half - one lengthwise, one widthwise and trimming any edges that show.

I can't believe I forgot to take a picture of the inside! The number 3 (cut from Red Glimmer Paper) popped up. Too cute!

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamps: retired Birthday sentiment

Paper: Basic Black, Crumb Cake, Whisper White cardstock

Red Glimmer Paper, Sending Love Specialty paper (retired)

Ink: Basic Black ink and marker

Other: Sound Card, Decorative Label Punch, 1 1/4" Square Punch, 1/2" circle punch, circle punch from Itty Bitty Punch pack, Wide Oval punch, Large oval punch, small oval punch (retired), sponge, White Organza Ribbon, dimensionals, mini glue dots

Reminder: Stampin Addicts is having a Big Shot Blog Hop October 14 - 16 (next weekend)! All projects in the Hop will feature the Big Shot which you can receive for FREE! Click Here for more information.

Thanks for looking!

Leaves of a Tree

2011-10-05T06:26:00.000-04:00

It has been a looong time since I participated in any Sketch Challenges. The timing is just never right! Today's card is last week's sketch over at Stampin Addicts.

I love working with circles so this was a fun card for me!

I used the Woodgrain background stamp for the background which seemed appropriate! A little strip of cardstock punched with the Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch was added to the left side for some visual interest.

My focal point was stamped with a single stamp, Leaves of a Tree, from the Holiday Mini catalog. Its leaves are just beginning to turn colors for the Fall season!

To get those little dabs of color in the tree, I inked it with Pear Pizzazz. Then I added color here and there with SU markers, including the trunk and tree branches.

Stamps: Leaves of a Tree

Paper: Pear Pizzazz, Cajun Craze, Very Vanilla, Crumb Cake

Ink: Chocolate Chip, Cajun Craze, Pear Pizzazz

Other: Cajun Craze Striped Ribbon, Hemp Twine, Button, punch, Big Shot, 3" Circle Bigz die, sponge

Hope your day is a creative one!

Bright Hopes and warm wishes

2011-09-30T06:38:00.000-04:00

Another Christmas card and another swap for your viewing pleasure! This one was my Control Freaks swap and my Stampin Addicts swap. I chose the stamp set Bright Hopes again only this time I went with a clean and elegant look.

You can't see from the photo, but the tree is embossed with Wild Wasabi embossing powder. It gives the card a little more elegance which was the look I was going for. I also added a little punched border of Stampin' Up!'s new Silver Glimmer Paper for some more glam!

Stamps: Bright Hopes (Holiday Mini)

Paper: Whisper White, Wild Wasabi, Silver Glimmer Paper (Holiday Mini)

Ink: Versamark, Wild Wasabi

Accessories: Big Shot, Snow Burst embossing folder (Holiday Mini), Basic Rhinestones, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Itty Bitty Punch pack, Wild Wasabi embossing powder, 1" square punch,

Wishing you a happy Friday and a wonderful weekend!