Stamping in Columbus, GA

Is it a Flower or Butterfly?

2012-01-30T08:15:00.001-05:00

Well, it can be BOTH!

Today I am going to show you 2 lovely swap cards I brought back from Leadership. Each used the new flower punch as a butterfly, which of course I LOVE!

Here they are:

The card above was designed by fellow demo Diane Browning for our shoe box swap.

The card above was designed by a fellow demo for our shoe box swap, but it didn’t have a name sticker

I love how one card uses skinny ribbon around the middle of the butterfly and the other is decorated with a brad.

The butterflies are quite easy to make. And I thought I should show you a little picture to proof that:

See!? Punch out a flower with the new “Blossom” punch and cut out the middle top and bottom petal with your scissors! That’s all that’s to it!

Lot’s of Layers

2012-01-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today I am sharing another card that was part of our Make-and-Take packet from Leadership.

This card has tons of layers and details:

I wasn’t sure about the color combo at first, but now I really like it!

The colors used are: Lucky Limeade, Poppy Parade, Rich Razzleberry and Daffodil Delight with white/vanilla.

Give it a try and let me know how you like those colors together!

Another Leadership Project

2012-01-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

As promised, I am back today to share another of our make-and-take projects from leadership.

This time I am showing you the little treat bag we got to make:

We used the “Fancy Favor” Die and cut the shape from the “Twitterpatted” DSP.

The large flower was stamped in Baja Breeze ink directly onto the DSP. Then it was assembled, which is WAY easy, BTW! And the pink patterned flower, of course is another die cut from the “Blossom’s Builder” kit.

The instructions told us to staple the bag shut. But I much rather wanted the bag to be “re-usable” so I punched 2 holes into the top and tied it shut with baker’s twine. I also added the pink rhinestone.. hey – they are part of the kit, so of course I “had to” do that

Very cute bag, and now I may have to order this die myself, since I don’t own it “yet”.

Stamp-a-Stack

2012-01-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today I want to share with you this month’s Stamp-a-Stack cards.

I had one session last night and the other one this morning.

One of the cards I wanted to be more like a Valentine’s Card, but also be able to use for other occasions. I did NOT have hear stamp *gasp* – so I looked through my stamp set to see what I could use to make a pretty heart.

And look what stamp set I came across:

It’s called “Always Elegant” and can be found on page 80 of the main catalog.

Here is my card:

You may have to click on the card to see the textured border of harts going across. Those were done with the “Adorning Accents” Embossing folder strip.

Supplies used:


Category	Item #	Description
Ink Pad	105214	Classic Stampin' Pad - RC Bravo Burgundy
Paper	100730	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Whisper White (40)
Paper	119685	CS - 8.5x11 - RC Cherry Cobbler (24)
Pieces	104430	Adhesive - Stampin' Dimensionals (300)
Punch	119871	Punch - 3/16" Corner Rounder Small
Punch	119883	Punch - Full Heart Extra-Large
Sizzix Die	115953	Sizzix Movers & Shapers Punch Windows (4 pk) (SU! excl)
Sizzix Die	125601	Sizzix Textured Impressions Folder - Adorning Accents(SU! excl)
Stamps	120477	Always Elegant - Clear-Mount

The other card I created, I got the inspiration from a card pictured in the Occasions Mini Catalog on page 17:

Since we make 5 of each design, I had to make it a little simpler, and came up with this version:

Supplies used:
Category	Item #	Description
Inches	117292	Ribbon, 5/8" Satin - Old Olive (15 yds)
Ink Pad	119667	Classic Stampin' Pad - BC Daffodil Delight
Ink Pad	115656	Classic Stampin' Pad - BC Melon Mambo
Ink Pad	102277	Classic Stampin' Pad - BC Old Olive
Ink Pad	101179	Classic Stampin' Pad - NC Basic Black
Ink Pad	115657	Classic Stampin' Pad - NC Soft Suede
Paper	119683	CS - 8.5x11 - BC Daffodil Delight (24)
Paper	119795	CS - 8.5x11 - IC Pear Pizzazz (24)
Paper	122924	CS - 8.5x11 - IC Pool Party (24)
Paper	115318	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Soft Suede (24)
Product	125603	Punch - Blossom
Punch	119873	Punch - 3/4" Circle Medium
Punch	121808	Punch - Blossom Petals Builder
Punch	118402	Punch - Scallop Trim Border
Sizzix Die	119976	Sizzix Textured Impressions Folder - Square Lattice (SU! excl)
Stamps	125537	Mixed Bunch - Clear
Stamps	123598	Occasions Alphabet - Clear-Mount

Don’t forget to check back later for some more Leadership projects or swap cards!

Tea Shoppe

2012-01-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today I am taking a little break from the series of Make-and-Takes because I want to mix it up some.

I wanted to show you some cards that I made or received during the shoe box swap in San Antonio and decided to start out with a card that used a stamp set that I don’t own “yet”.

Here it is:

This beautiful card was designed by Barbara Pisciotto. It uses the stamp set called “Tea Shoppe” (Occasions Mini Catalog, Page 19) in combination of the Paper Doily die. Love the layout, sponging of the doily and the stack of small flowers.

Another nice little detail is the layering of the vanilla oval onto the vanilla scallop oval. That’s always something that I forget, but should do more often!

Tomorrow I will share my Stamp-a-Stack Cards and then continue on with the next Make-and-Take project.

See you back here soon!

Happiness and Catalog Info

2012-01-25T08:15:00.001-05:00

… is me staying on track with posting to my blog LOL! BTW, be sure to read the info below the photo too – VERY important changes!

Today’s card is the first of the remaining projects that I am doing at home. I had planned to make several yesterday and post one by one. But that didn’t happen. So I made this quick card this morning. And you know what? This is the perfect sample for quick and easy, but cute!

You may have to click on the photo to see the center flower. Both the top and very bottom flower came from the “Blossoms Builder” Kit as well as the PINK rhinestone!

The greeting is from the stamp set called “Loving Thoughts”, which has this nice and elegant font. All items, of course, are from the Occasions Mini Catalog.

Speaking of catalogs... Stampin’ Up! announced at leadership that there will be some changes to the catalog program. And those are some exciting news!

Lots of my customers told me several times that they are a bit overwhelmed with the great offerings in the mini catalogs. And that they feel they don’t have enough time to purchase all they want. Well, Stampin’ Up! listened! We now will only have TWO “seasonal” catalogs a year in addition to a main catalog. Those seasonal catalogs will be a little large and will last longer (5 months each)!

The Occasions, Summer, and Holiday Mini Catalogs will be replaced by two seasonal catalogs called the Holiday Catalog and the Spring Catalog.

The first Holiday Catalog will run from August 1, 2012 through the beginning of January, 2013
The first Spring Catalog will run from the beginning of January, 2013 through May 31, 2013.

Another change is made to the main catalog:
It will be called “Annual Catalog”

The annual catalog will run from June 1, 2012 through May 31, 2013.
The annual catalog will be reduced from over 240 pages in the current Idea Book & Catalog to 208 pages.

I know there was some info in there that YOU really needed to know, so I am going to point it out: The current catalog called “Idea Book & Catalog” will retire May 31, 2012! That means, this year it will go away 1 entire month earlier that printed on the book. I just want to make sure that you can plan ahead.

Recap:
1) There will not be another mini catalog right after the Occasions Mini ends April 30th.

2) The new Annual catalog comes out in June

That should give you enough time to focus on the Occasions mini items now. And then we should get the retirement list in a timely manner so you can focus on the items that will retire from the main catalog.

Please let me know if you have questions about any of this. I am very excited about this change and know you will be too!

Happy stamping…

“Wonderful You” Page

2012-01-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

I am back to show off the 8x8 scrapbook page. I also made this beauty during the make-and-take session at leadership!

I think I am going to add it to a 12x12 page, so I can put it in my book. I may add 1 or 2 layers behind this page to make it “grow”

Using the flowers from the Blossom Builders Kit made this page come together rather quickly.

So all my scrap bookers out there… put this kit on your wish list, it is awesome! It even comes with PINK rhinestones! How cool is that!?

Be sure to come back tomorrow! Because if I know that YOU will come and check on me, I will have another project ready from our remaining 6!

January Swap Winner

2012-01-23T16:14:00.001-05:00

Drumroll please! The votes have been counted:

It shows that entry #6 won. And it was this card here

This beautiful card was created by Mollie!

Mollie belongs to the Monday (#1) group and is not fond of purple at all! Maybe winning this challenge will change her mind?

Congrats Mollie! You can claim your prize (the demo cards) any time… See you Friday at SAS and Sunday for class!

Thank you all who participated in this months swap AND also to those who voted!

Blossom Builders

2012-01-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today I am sharing the 2nd project that I did make during make-and-take at leadership.

Here it is:

I think this card is just adorable, and so very easy. It has very little stamping and features the Designer Printed Kit “Blossom Builders”.

This is a great kit with LOTS of flowers and banners, which can be found on page 18 of the Occasions Mini Catalog.

I especially like the scallop border on the left with the greeting banner tucked under!

I hope your Monday goes smooth…

Have a nice week and come back again tomorrow!

Leadership Make-and-Takes

2012-01-22T17:38:00.001-05:00

Hi Guys – yesterday was a long day of traveling back home. Due to the bad weather in Atlanta my flight was delayed for over 2 hours. I did finally get home, enjoyed dinner with my awesome hubby and went to bed early. I had an awesome time at leadership, loved all I learnt and that I could catch up with some old friends and made new ones as well. Even on the flight home I discovered yet again, that there are no strangers in this Stampin’ Up family.

Today I am starting a series of blog posts about the Make-and-Take samples. See Stampin’ Up! treats us so good that they gave us materials for NINE projects knowing we would not be able to finish them all while there. We had a good time crafting and chatting and “only” made 3 of the 9. So I am challenging myself to make 1 project each day so I can share them all with you!

Here is the first one:

Stampin’ Up! always asks us to make one card for the Ronald McDonalds House charities so they can donate those cards. This was the card this year and we had materials to make 2 and got to keep the other. Nothing better than having fun stamping and doing a little good…

I really like this simple layout! What a fun way to use our new flower punch. Cutting the slits into the petals really makes the flower look completely different… The stamp set used is called “Mixed Bunch” and can be found on page 17 of the Occasions Mini Catalog!

Come back tomorrow to see the next project!

Shoe Box Swap

2012-01-20T08:21:00.001-05:00

So last night we went to a shoe box swap. I had to bring 25 completed cards and enough make and take material in a “shoe box” for 24 others to make the card that night.

Here is my card:

It uses LOTS of new items… even sneak peek of Sale-a-Bration stamps, ribbon and DSP!

Note to my stamp club members: Do you recognize this layout? This is the one to use for next month… See how fun it is!?

We had lots of fun last night and got lots great info and news during the day, which I will share once back home.

Getting ready for the last day at leadership!

Claudia

Stamp Club Swaps = Pink & Purple

2012-01-16T21:02:00.001-05:00

Oh my – I’ve been missing the whole first part of January! Where did the time go? I hope you all had a good New Year and are ready to see some great Stamp Club swap cards?

This time I’ve challenged the ladies to only use Pink and Purple.

See what lovely creations they ladies came up with:

#1:

#2:

#3:

#4:

#5:

#6:

#7:

#8:

#10:

#11:

#12:

Now that you’ve seen them all, please go and cast your vote. The voting section is located on the right side below the twitter update box. I know the ladies will appreciate your support!

We’ll announce the winner once I’m back from San Antonio.

I am going to try and post some little updates while gone too…

Thanks!

I “smell” Love! It’s “Bordering on Romance”

2011-12-29T10:57:00.001-05:00

Hehehe, I couldn’t resist using a title like this… because the name of the new stamp set is “Bordering on Romance”! AND I am using the scented embossing powder in “Melon”.

Both are another sneak peek of the upcoming Occasions Mini Catalog. This is such a great catalog!

Here is my card:

So I simply stamped the floral image in Concord Crush onto Blushing Bride CS. I used the Aqua Painter and Concord Crush ink to color in the smaller flowers and used an Artichoke marker for the leafs.

THEN I used the VersaMARKER and “colored” in the large flowers with the clear ink of the marker. Then I used the Melon scented embossing powder and heat gun. It not only makes the flowers a shade darker than the CS, but also smells soooo nice!

Here is at least a close up – sorry that you can’t smell it through our computers:

Oh and before I forget…OF COURSE I had to use the matching Edgelit “die” called “Adorning Accents. I love this stuff

And if you are part of one of my stamp clubs, you are in luck! I will be making a similar card next month so you can see all of the steps!

Announcing the December Winner

2011-12-28T08:26:00.001-05:00

The voting has been closed now for several days and I need to announce our December winner before January rolls around!

Number 4 is our winning entry:

See:

The card was created by Adriane, who’s part of the Monday #1 stamp club. I do want to point out that this pretty card is a “hybrid” card, which means Adriane created the elements in “My Digital Studio”, printed them out and then made it into a “real” card with dimension and embellishments. Great job!

Congrats to you, Adriane. Your “grand prize” (December demo items) are ready for you and you can get them anytime or just pick up at the stamp club meeting next week.

Thanks to all of the ladies for their great cards and to all of you who voted!

My MDS/Hybrid Christmas Card

2011-12-26T10:14:00.001-05:00

This year I made my Christmas Card using “My Digital Studio” and had them professionally printed by Stampin’ Up!

Here is the front view:

And here is a page by page video:

2011

When I received the printed cards, which by the way come with the envelope, I border scallop punched the front layer so the bottom part of the inside card would show. I also shimmer sprayed the front and added a Rhinestone over the “j” in “jolly”.

I was very happy how it turned out and the quality of it.

Decorated Faux Candle

2011-12-24T19:35:00.001-05:00

I needed a few more gifts and remembered that I had gotten some of those “Faux Candles”. They really look and feel like candles, but have a batter operated light in it…

I stamped a strip of vellum, wrapped it around and added a die-cut flower that was shimmer sprayed, of course!

Here it is:

A little closer look:

This is a great way to change the decoration pretty fast. If you want to change it seasonally… you can!

Merry Christmas - Frohe Weihnachten!

Cookies–YUM!

2011-12-20T14:31:00.001-05:00

Soooo, some of you wanted my grandma’s recipe for her “Butterzeug” (German Sugar Cookies).

I had made a batch and gave to those stamp club members that were able to pick up in time (don’t worry if you didn’t, you will get a different little gift)….

I used the small boxes from the mini catalog and decorated with DSP:

And of course I used the Cookie Press to “stamp” them.

I forgot to take pictures after baking them so this is the best I can do without having to take them out of the clear bag. I would have to eat them otherwise…

Here is the recipe:

You should be able to click on it and then even print if you like…

Enjoy!

Lots of Stockings!

2011-12-17T10:55:00.001-05:00

Last week we went to the Christmas Party of Rob’s work and I wanted to bring Christmas Cards for his team members. But I wanted it something “different”. So I decided to do the Christmas stocking as card, filled with candy canes.

And because I was multi tasking, Rob was nice enough to help. I cut out the pieces, did the stamping and writing… but he assembled them all!

Here is the group shot:

And here is the close-up:"

I used the “Letters to Santa” DSP for the front main part of the stocking and coordinating CS for the back, brim, heel and toe… DSP scraps for the holly leaves and the berries were punched from red glimmer paper.

Everyone seemed to enjoy getting those.

New additions to the Clearance Rack

2011-12-16T07:11:00.001-05:00

WOW! Nearly 200 new Clearance Rack items have been added to the Online Store at discounts up to 80 percent off retail--while supplies last! You really need to check them out…

Things to Remember

Only demonstrator and online orders qualify for this promotion. Orders can include non-Clearance Rack items, as well.
The Clearance Rack Blitz includes old-body style punches.
There is no minimum purchase required to participate in this promotion.
Qualifying Clearance Rack orders are eligible for hostess benefits/Stampin' Rewards.
Following the Clearance Rack Blitz sales period, some blitz items may remain in the clearance rack; others may be removed and reappear at an undesignated time in the future.
Clearance Rack Blitz items are only available while supplies last. There are no refunds or exchanges on Clearance Rack items.

To see all the great items click here

Lots of Christmas Cards– Please vote!

2011-12-13T16:46:00.001-05:00

Yesterday we the last stamp club meeting for this year. And with that I also got the last swap cards in.

This time I made it easy because everyone is so busy during this time of year already. So I simply asked to make a Christmas card.. Since everyone was working on their Christmas cards anyway, I thought this would get us a great turn out. And it sure did!

#1:

#2:

#3:

#4:

#5:

#6:

#7:

#8:

#9:

#10:

#11:

#12:

#13:

#14

#15:

So now that you’ve seen all of the beauties, will you please go and cast your vote? I know the ladies will appreciate it!

Thanks!

Sneak Peek - Mixed Bunch

2011-12-12T17:55:00.001-05:00

… is such a fantabulous new stamp set, that I could not wait to show you. And you will see it in the new mini catalog….

This stamp set has it’s matching flower punch! And I know you all will LOVE that!

Here is a quick little card I made today:

I’ve also used some of our new framelits and one strip from the Adorning Accents Embossing folders (it’s a set of 3 different patterns)… In case you can’t tell in the picture, it’s a strip/row with tiny hearts. How cute is that! Then I finished it off with one of the new and huge pearls. LOVE those!

I hope you enjoyed this card… there might be more to come, Ahem… yes, there will be more

Have fun stamping!

Happy Retirement

2011-12-10T13:32:00.001-05:00

Today we are going to a military Retirement party and I needed a card to go with our gift.

So I combined old with new and came up with this card:

The “old” is the retired stamp set “Godspeed” and the “new” are the “Framelits”… another little sneak peek of the new mini catalog.

I so wanted to use shimmer spray, but refrained from it, because I could just hear my husband critique that Shimmer and Military or guys in general do not go together, I guess. So I did some heavy sponging and popped the layer up with dimensionals.

The banner has 2 score lines on each side of the sentiment so I was able to bend the CS. The brads are just decoration and the banner has a stack of 2 dimensionals under the greeting…

Craft Therapy

2011-12-09T16:20:00.001-05:00

… and a little sneak peek! I got my pre-order of goodies from the upcoming mini catalog in last night. YAY!

So today I had to at least try out some of my new tools.

Here is one very easy card that I made fairly quickly:

This card is a 5” square and it features the large Doily Sizzlit.

Now you may understand why the title “Craft Therapy” and “fairly quickly”. Because while I was using my paper piercer to poke out all those little pieces I was thinking “THERAPY”… this is relaxing…LOL! Yes it is a little tedious, BUT so well worth it.

Now I am going to let you in on a little secret on what NOT to do. See, I had shimmer sprayed the Doily after I had it cut, and it was GORGEOUS! Then I thought I ‘d be smart and use my adhesive sheet so I can stick it to the card easy. Well after I used the adhesive remover on all of the open areas… you guessed it… none of my shimmer was left on the doily SO, with that bit of info… don’t to that… use liquid glue instead!

Another new item is the huge pearl in the center. Just wait until you see the whole new mini catty! It should arrive at your house by the end of the month for sure!

I will be back with more little teasers…

It’s good to be a dog

2011-12-08T19:29:00.001-05:00

… at least at the Perry house. And that even after one had surgery. Some (or most) of you know that Sam had surgery last week, which he came thought wonderfully! Today I wanted to share with you how much he is loved even by my stampers.

He received his very own “Get Well” Card from Norma’s cats!

Here is the card that the cats told Norma to make so they could send it to Sam:

Not only did they think about the card, but also send a bone for Sam and another for Annie so she would not feel left out. Thanks so much for being so thoughtful, guys!

Here are a few shots of the dogs with their new treats:

Sam seems to be saying “Don’t take my bone!” And Annie of course, is going to town on hers.

Big Yawn… protecting a bone must be just as tough as chewing one?!

Sam: “Let’s take a nap, BUT I’ll keep a paw on it, because I don’t trust HER” (aka Annie)

We have a winner!

2011-11-27T11:08:00.001-05:00

It’s overdo to be announced that we have a winner for the November Customer Card Swap.

See:

And that means that card #4 has THE lead with 17 votes!

Here is card #4:

Look at all of the details, especially the mini jingle bells on the bells! This beauty was created by Joy Anderson. Joy is a stamp club member of the Tuesday Group!

Congratulations Joy! I have your goodies (the demo items from the November meeting) ready for you! Let me know if you want to pick up now or at the next club meeting…

Pretty Vellum and GREAT SALE

2011-11-22T18:05:00.001-05:00

Monday I had a little class on on how to make a tea light candle holder. We had a good time making this beauty!

Here is the front view:

And here is a side view:

I’ve used the vine stamp from the “BFF” stamp set and stamped it in Whisper White CRAFT ink onto the Vellum pattern. I heat set it gently so the vellum would not warp or scorch.

The floral border is detachable so one could use lighter color of flowers or embellishments depending on the season

And when I created my version for class I discovered the our Sizzix scallop circle die works just wonderful as a base. So instead of the regular circle, I used it. I did back it with the same shape in chip board. An afterthought… If you sponge the white chipboard in the color of cardstock that it’s going to be covered with, it won’t show up as much…

The large flower is from the “Island Floral” Die and works so well with this project.

If you’re not on my email list you may not have heard about the great sale that Stampin’ Up! has going on. You can see all the details when you click here. Or shop at my online store:

Please let me know if you need help with anything. I do have a group order going in on 11/30 (if you are local and would like to save on shipping…)

Time to Vote on Stamp Club Swap Cards!

2011-11-15T08:49:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I had the last stamp club meeting for November. This is a brand-new group that I just added and so I didn’t know if we would have swap cards from any of the ladies. But we did get TWO, I am so proud of you guys!

This time I gave the ladies a sketch to work with:

And here are the awesome cards that the ladies came up with:

#1:

#2:

#3:

#4:

$5:

#6:

#7:

#8:

#9:

#10:

Please show the ladies your support and cast your vote!

I know it will be a hard chore, because the cards are all beautiful! Thanks for playing along!

Shaker Frames and Mica Flakes = FUN

2011-11-13T16:56:00.002-05:00

I am just having a BLAST using the shaker frames these days! So I decided to share a little video with you… so don’t forget to scroll down… because I wanted to share a card with your first!
Here it is:

You may have to click on the photo to enlarge it so you can see the flakes inside the shaker frame.
Here is the video on how to make those little shaker frames:

So if you haven’t gotten your shaker frames and Mica Flakes yet, don’t wait too long, they are in the current Mini Catalog…
Have fun stamping!

A Winner and another free download!

2011-11-08T10:47:00.001-05:00

Hi guys! Today I have 2 messages for you. First I wanted to share who won the Halloween Costume Contest:

Just as a refresher, this is what she looked like:

Notice the Stampin’ Up! Mini Catalog and Rubber Stamp?!

Just to prove that you all voted for her:

And here is what Joan won:

Yep, her very own set of brand-new Cookie press stamps! Enjoy them Joan, they are on the way to your house via Sharon!

Thanks to everybody that came and was such a good sport. I had a blast!

And then the 2nd part of good news, Stampin’ Up! promised another free download if they reached a certain number. And they did! So go and run to get your extra MDS download for free. You can find it here!

Did you get your FREE Digital Downloads yet?

2011-11-06T18:11:00.001-05:00

If not… don’t walk, but RUN over to the MDS website, take a short survey and get your free downloads. It’s that easy!

Click here to get to the site!

Once you’ve downloaded them, there is a document that will help you to locate them in your My Digital Studio Software. You can see that here!

Have fun playing!!!!

Falling Leaves

2011-11-03T09:50:00.001-04:00

It’s that time of year that we get to see lots of leaves and they are so pretty when they change colors. So I think was a little inspired by that when I created this little gift:

I used the Sizzix die Leaves #2 and die cut a whole bunch of them in Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Soft Suede and Cajun Craze. Then I shimmer sprayed them and crumbled them up. I opened them back up and let air dry.

The wooden frame was painted first before I attached the leaves (ONE by ONE) with hot glue. The funny part is, that acrylic paint I had was way to light, so I added a little Early Espresso re-inker to that and wouldn’t you know it… it turned out be be just like Soft Suede!

This is actually a very easy project and could be a special gift or your own seasonal home décor!

Wicked Cool Broom

2011-10-31T17:41:00.001-04:00

Yes, I couldn’t resist to combine the name of the stamp set with the project.

So today I am going to share with you the ultra cute make-and-take project that the ladies got to make yesterday during the Stampin’ Trick or Treat/Silent Auction.

Here it is:

To make this cool broom, we used the skinny cello bags from the holiday mini catalog and filled with treats, which makes the broom stick.

Then the broom part, we used mini lunch bags from the craft store. I cut off the bottom completely and some from the top too, so it only measures about 3 inches tall now.

We simply cut slits up towards the middle from one side and also slits from the other side, but we didn’t go up as far. Then we added a strip of sticky tape in the uncut area and rolled it around our broom stick. Then we used a piece of ribbon and tied it around.

And we finished if off with a tag, that we stamped with the greeting and witches hat…

Happy Halloween!!! I am almost a little sad that it’s over now. Oh well, until next year…

2011 Stampin’ Trick or Treat

2011-10-30T22:31:00.001-04:00

Today we’ve had our annual Stampin’ Trick or Treat with added on Silent Auction. And we all had a blast! Here is a nice group shot:

I like how the pirate is surrounded by 2 doctors

We’ve had some very creative costumes and I would like to ask you all to cast your vote for your favorite.

The lucky winner will receive a set of “Sweet Pressed Cookies Stamps” as seen in my prior post…

Now I will show you the pictures you can vote on. And after those I will show you more of fun Halloween afternoon, so don’t forget to scroll down too.

Here is the crew:

#1:

#2:

#3:

#4:

#5:

#6:

And of course Rob and I did dress up too! But not available for voting.

Rob with mask:

Rob with face paint (so we could go out to eat for his birthday):

The ladies also got to stamp a lunch bag and fill with treats…

Make-and-Take time:

Kathleen doing the napkin dance

Pirate defending her gold aka stamps at the not so silent auction

I have to apologize if some of the pictures are blurry. It is VERY difficult to take good photos with a face mask on!

Close up of Joan’s drawers

The ink spots (Lorraine, Nancy and Joy) even serenated me! Way cool!

A close up of one of the Ink spots

House pictures:

We had such a good time again this year that we are already planning for next year. Which will be one week earlier… So mark your calendars… Now please go vote and show your much appreciated support … THANKS!

PS: Tomorrow, I’ll share the little make-and-take the ladies did…

It’s a Sketch!

2011-10-27T18:54:00.001-04:00

I really like doing sketch challenges (for the most part anyway…) And this one is a great one.

I liked it so much that this is the same one that I’ve issued to my stamp club girls for their November swap!

Here is the sketch:

And you know me, I like to change things ever so slightly every now and then. So I did an oval instead of the circle element.

Here is my card:

And because I textured the background, I couldn’t stamp the sentiment on that layer… so I punched it out and popped it up

The stamp set used is the “Stitched Stockings” with the matching punch. To get the baby booties, I simply cut the cuff off and then adhered it further down (aligning the top of the cuff with the top of the stocking).

I love when you can use stamps and punches in ways that are not that obvious!

Cookies!

2011-10-26T18:27:00.001-04:00

I couldn’t wait to make those oh so cute cookies… You may ask “what does that have to do with stamping?”. Well, I tell you what. Everything! Because Stampin’ Up! has now stamps for your cookies! The set is called “Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps” and comes with a wooden handle and 3 silicone stamps. See here!

So I’ll let you in on my baking fun today. The set comes with 2 recipes. This is the one I used:

Thanks Jill Hilliard, for typing up the recipe and making it MDS pretty!

Ingredients:

Dough in the fridge

By the way, I was able to get 32 out of the regular batch. And I used Splenda for the regular sugar and Blue Bonnet for the butter..

Here is the batch –1, because I had to try one

And here is a close-up:

Now don’t chew on your computer screen because it looks so good. You can make some too! I might even share with you when you come to the Trick or Treat stamping this Sunday. To win the grand prize, you must be in costume/decorated so blog readers can vote…

But if you just want to swing by for the silent auction, you can come in your every day outfit…

See you soon!

Sketch Challenge, oh so true

2011-10-25T18:54:00.001-04:00

Today I am going to share a sketch that I needed to follow this week. And they don’t call it challenge for no reason!

This is the sketch that really made me think:

I was actually happy with what I came up:

That was until I discovered that I totally forgot the strip going up and down on the left side of the sketch.

Oh well! I still like my card and could argue that the textured pattern was supposed to count for that element

Either way, you see how sometimes our mind just wonders off a little… and it is perfectly fine – while card-making anyway!

Very simply supplies: Black and white CS and inks. Brushed Silver CS, Rhinestones, circle punches, snowflake embossing folder, shimmer spray… And the stamp sets: Contempo Christmas (for the Greeting) and Season of Joy (again, I know… it was still out on my desk)…

Have fun stamping!

Inspired by…

2011-10-24T07:39:00.001-04:00

Some times you may find yourself looking for inspiration to get started on a card. Start looking through the catalogs and magazines you get in the mail, you might come across a picture that will inspire you and you’ll take one or several elements from it.

I was following an inspiration challenge and the photo for it was this:

I think I was totally inspired by the color blue and the tree, what do you think:

For this card I pulled out and oldie but goodie “Season of Joy”. I LOVE that tree and thought it would work pretty good for the challenge.

I hope this will get you inspired to maybe work on your Christmas cards for this year?

Have fun…

Christmas Stamp-a-Stack

2011-10-23T14:57:00.001-04:00

Today is the last Stamp-a-Stack session of the year where we make Christmas cards exclusively.

Here are the 3 we made…

Card #1:

This card was inspired by Mary Fish. I thought it was such a great idea to use a stamp set that you normally wouldn’t use for Christmas. It’s called “Pendant Park”, and has a branch in the set, which is used to punch the Ornaments from!

Supplies used:

Category	Item #	Description
Ink Pad	122937	Classic Stampin' Pad - IC Island Indigo
Ink Pad	119670	Classic Stampin' Pad - NC Early Espresso
Paper	122923	CS - 8.5x11 - IC Island Indigo
Paper	100730	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Whisper White
Pieces	104430	Adhesive - Stampin' Dimensionals
Product	106958	Cutter Kit
Punch	119868	Punch - 1" Circle Medium
Punch	119869	Punch - 1/2" Circle Small
Punch	119873	Punch - 3/4" Circle Medium
Stamps	124312	Hand-Penned Holidays - Clear Mount
Stamps	115456	Pendant Park
Stamps	116722	Tree Trimmings

Card #2:

This card uses my new favorite die called “Peekaboo Frames”

Supplies used:

Category	Item #	Description
Inches	123125	Baker's Twine - Cherry Cobbler/White
Ink Pad	101179	Classic Stampin' Pad - NC Basic Black
Ink Pad	119669	Classic Stampin' Pad - RC Cherry Cobbler
Paper	119686	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Early Espresso
Paper	100730	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Whisper White
Paper	119685	CS - 8.5x11 - RC Cherry Cobbler
Paper	119682	CS - 8.5x11 - SC Marina Mist
Pieces	104430	Adhesive - Stampin' Dimensionals
Pieces	122941	Brads - Mini, Silver
Product	124095	Punch - Stocking Builder
Punch	118402	Punch - Scallop Trim Border
Sizzix Die	124587	Sizzix Bigz L Die - Peekaboo Frames (SU! excl)
Sizzix Die	124096	Sizzix Textured Impressions Folder - Snow Burst (SU! excl)
Stamps	115068	Sincere Salutations
Stamps	123784	Stitched Stockings - Clear Mount

Card #3:

This one is VERY simply, but elegant. And I wanted to point out the lines on the outside. They were embossed using the “Simply Scored” Tool. This is an easy way to make your cards look store-bought…

Supplies used:

Category	Item #	Description
Ink Pad	115657	Classic Stampin' Pad - NC Soft Suede
Ink Pad	103162	Classic Stampin' Pad - RC More Mustard
Paper	100730	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Whisper White
Paper	105119	CS - 8.5x11 - RC Always Artichoke
Pieces	119246	Jewels, Adhesive - Basic Rhinestones
Product	116806	Shimmer Paint - Champagne Mist
Product	122334	Simply Scored Scoring Tool
Sizzix Die	124099	Sizzix Original Die - Stocking Accents (SU! Excl)
Sizzix Die	119976	Sizzix Textured Impressions Folder - Square Lattice (SU! excl)
Stamps	120594	Contempo Christmas - Clear-Mount
Stamps	110384	Season of Joy

You may have to click on the photo to see the details like the embossed lines and the glitter…

Back to having fun with ladies that are making their cards!

A Color Challenge

2011-10-21T09:21:00.000-04:00

So today I wanted to share a little card with you that fallows a Color challenge.

Here are the colors that we had to use:

And here is my card:

Even though you can’s see it, I’ve used glossy white CS for the main panel and only shimmer sprayed the flower.

I used a rhinestone in place of the “o” in “Hello”. It kind of makes me smile. Stamp sets used: “My Friend” and hostess set “Posy Punch”.

The photo is not that great because I broke my light bulbs that go in the little photography lamps and can’t find the correct replacements. So it will be a struggle for a little while. Sorry about that.

We have a winner!

2011-10-20T16:09:00.001-04:00

Look – what our poll is telling us:

This means that card #11 is the winner, which was this entry:

What a beauty! I love the tone on tone with just a little bit of vanilla… This card was created by Theresa Wade. Theresa is part of my Monday stamp club.

Congratulations Theresa on winning!!! I will include your grand prize (my extra set of demo items from this month) into the stamp club order once that’s in. (it should be tonight…)

Thank you ALL for creating such wonderful cards, and for voting! I’m looking forward to see what the ladies will come up with next month!

Cool iPod card

2011-10-17T07:55:00.001-04:00

Today I wanted to show you a card that I made using MDS.

Last week I needed a Birthday Card for our nephew Connor and with him being a teenager, I wanted something cool enough for him.

So I created this:

I downloaded the iPod touch pic and Angry Bird pic (rightfully – no stealing!), and sized them in MDS, then printed out and cut out for my larger than usual card (= a full sheet of CS, folded into half).

The ear phones are black and silver circles, the cord is black hemp.

Then of course I had to do something with textures. The red background is the stripes texture and the green is the hounds tooth texture, but done with the double embossing technique.

Oh and I did stamp the greeting

The inside, not really fancy, but looks like this:

I made a thicker pocket so I could slide the gift cards into.

As per Eileen (the mom) he did like his card. I am sure he liked the gift a little more, but that’s just fine and supposed to be like that!

Happy stamping…

Card Keeper Box

2011-10-16T08:58:00.001-04:00

Did you know you could have a very pretty box to keep your cards in? There is a plain card keeper box offered in the Holiday Mini Catalog on page 35. I think you can easily overlook it so I wanted to point it out. It is only $8.95 – what a great deal!

Friday I had a class and we decorated the boxes. They turned out pretty cute!

We used “Flirtatious” Designer Fabric for the lid and the DSP to cover the dividers that come with the box. I created titles in MDS, printed on white CS. We used the Word Window punch to punch them out and trimmed off the sides some. By the way, it also comes with the silver hardware already included!

The flower on the lid was created with CS and the sizzix die “Fun Flowers” with added petals underneath that were punched with the Blossom Petals Builder punch. Lots of shimmer spray and crinkling and hot glue + a Simply Adorned bauble in crystal clear to make it extra special.

So if you want to give hand-made gifts for Christmas this year, you could dress up a box like that and maybe even put one hand-made card of each category inside.

Peekaboo Frames

2011-10-13T11:03:00.001-04:00

Today I wanted to highlight a new product from the mini catalog. The “Peekaboo Frames” Die. You can find it on page 36 in the mini catalog and it was used to create an awesome Advent Calendar.

BUT I do know that not everyone is going to want to make such an item. So I wanted to point out how versatile this die is, and I am going to show you 2 uses and a little video.

The first one, in a more obvious way… using a frame on a card:

Inside the window:

I got a little video with a tip for you:

And here is the card I made using this window as a layer:

I just LOVE my new “mini Top Note” die

I hope this inspired you to give it another look and get creative with it!

Whoooo likes Fabric?

2011-10-12T07:25:00.001-04:00

Today I wanted to share a very special project with you. My friend Madeline came up with it and used DSP for it… I wanted to create a similar one. But the more I looked at it and saw just how munch punching was involved, I decided to go a different way.

I used Designer Fabric and BigShot dies. And the result is this cutie:

The “Spice Cake” Designer Fabric was used here. For the ruffles I used the “Tasteful Trims”die and for “feathers” I used the “Island Floral” die.

The eyes, ears and beak are made from DSP, and of course, I did some sponging!

All I can say it was a LOT of die cutting and hot-gluing! But so well worth it. I do think that it’s easier with fabric and dies than DSP and punches. So I took the easy road…

What a nice gift! I had her on a plate with leaves, but forgot to take a picture before I gave her away…

Now I just have to make another one for myself

Technique Class: Double Embossing

2011-10-11T11:28:00.002-04:00

It’s already time to introduce another technique! We sure had lots of fun…
If you weren’t able to come to class yesterday and want to learn, the fee for the online version is only $5 if paid by check or cash.
You would get not only access to the videos , but you will also get the technique cover page to add to your book, you will also see large photos of the 2 cards and the 2 instruction sheets in pdf as well (in case you would like to copy the cards at home). As a bonus, you will also see a video on how to make the paper rosette.
Here are the cards we made in class:

The technique this month is called “Double Embossing” and so much fun to do!
If you did want the online class and would like instant access, you can use the PayPal option, for $6:

Please let me know if you need help with anything!

Stamp Club Swap Cards

2011-10-09T10:42:00.001-04:00

This month for the stamp club swaps cards, I gave out a piece of cardstock to each club member. The piece was textured with the “Snow Burst” Embossing folder, but could be a different color, because I just used the current “new” in-colors. So you will see a variety of color combos. The ladies were asked to either use it as a quarter sheet or cut, punch, die cut into shape/s wanted.

Here is what they came up with…

#1:

#2:

#3:

#4:

#5:

#6:

#7:

#8:

#9:

#10:

#11:

#12:

Once again, the ladies did an outstanding job! Thanks so much for playing along.

Now – everyone, please go and cast your vote for your favorite card this month.

Halloween Note Desk Organizer

2011-10-05T09:13:00.001-04:00

Today I wanted to share the little gift I gave to the hostesses this week so far.

I did not come up with the idea, only followed Jill Hilliard’s great directions. I will try and either do a photo or video tutorial on it for you guys soon!

Here it is:

You may not be able to see them, but the little box has custom notes in it. I created in “My Digital Studio”, printed and then cut down to 3 inch squares.

Everything “DSP” and “stamped” on this item was created in “My Digital Studio”, printed and cut to size. I did NOT make a whole page with DS, but only added boxes a little larger than I would need so I would not waste too much ink . The digital downloads are: “Spooky Bingo Bits”, found here. And the “DSP” is “Frightful Sights”, found here.

The adorable tissues came from Walgreens. Jill had chocolates in the pocket, but I thought that would be gone to quickly and then the pocket would be empty. At least with the tissues, you’ll have some when needed and it looks cute longer.

For those that can’t for the tutorial, here is the quick supplies list and how to:

Box:
5.25 square of CS, scored at 1" on all sides. Snip score lines to make the box.

Pocket:
2 Scallop Envelope die cuts. Trim the bottom flap on each to be 1/2 inch. Assemble to make pocket, cut off one scallop flap. This way you will see more of the DSP on the back wall.

Wall:
Cut matching card stock to 9 x 3-1/8. Score this piece at 3, 6-1/2, 7-1/2, and 8-1/2. Accordion fold the smaller pieces and attach to the box.

Assemble and decorate…

September Stamp-a-Stack

2011-10-02T11:34:00.001-04:00

Yikes – September has come and gone and Friday morning was the last Stamp-a-Stack session… I meant to share the cards right after but got too busy. So let me do this right now!

Card #1:

Supplies used:

Category	Item #	Description
Ink Pad	122938	Classic Stampin' Pad - IC Pool Party
Ink Pad	119670	Classic Stampin' Pad - NC Early Espresso
Paper	122924	CS - 8.5x11 - IC Pool Party
Paper	119686	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Early Espresso
Paper	100730	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Whisper White
Product	116806	Shimmer Paint - Champagne Mist
Punch	119871	Punch - 3/16" Corner Rounder Small
Sizzix Die	120175	Embossing Folder - Vintage Wallpaper
Stamps	122762	Field Flowers - Clear-Mount
Stamps	122845	Hello, Doily (Background)
Stamps	122497	Petite Pairs - Clear-Mount

Card #2:

Supplies used:

Category	Item #	Description
Ink Pad	119670	Classic Stampin' Pad - NC Early Espresso
Ink Pad	119671	Classic Stampin' Pad - RC Cajun Craze
Ink Pad	103162	Classic Stampin' Pad - RC More Mustard
Marker	100071	Stampin' Write - NC Chocolate Chip
Marker	119680	Stampin' Write - NC Early Espresso
Marker	119678	Stampin' Write - RC Cajun Craze
Marker	100076	Stampin' Write - RC More Mustard
Paper	119686	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Early Espresso
Paper	100730	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Whisper White
Paper	119684	CS - 8.5x11 - RC Cajun Craze
Paper	100946	CS - 8.5x11 - RC More Mustard
Pieces	104430	Adhesive - Stampin' Dimensionals
Pieces	104337	Brads - Gold
Pieces	119737	Brads - Regals
Product	106958	Cutter Kit
Punch	119855	Punch - Large Oval
Punch	119856	Punch - Scallop Oval Extra-Large
Sizzix Die	120903	Sizzix Bigz Die - Scallop Squares Duo
Stamps	122642	Borderlines - Clear-Mount
Stamps	123843	Leaves of a Tree
Stamps	122497	Petite Pairs - Clear-Mount

We had lots of fun! In October we will have the last full CHRISTMAS Stamp-a-Stack, so go ahead and mark your calendars already (10/21 +10/23)

FREE Big Shot

2011-10-01T14:06:00.001-04:00

Oh MY – Stampin’ Up! is treating new demonstrators to either a FREE BigShot or merchandise up to $100 if signed up during October 2011

If you're interested in becoming a Stampin' Up! demonstrator and join my team “Operation Inky Paws”, follow these easy steps:

Go to my Stampin’ Up! site, click on the Join Now image to the left to join Stampin' Up!
Read and agree to the Independent Demonstrator Agreement.
Purchase your Starter Kit-there are two great options!
- The $175 Standard Starter Kit contains over $310 worth of stamping and business supplies!
- The $175 Digital + Starter Kit contains over $320 worth of stamping and business supplies, including the all-new My Digital Studio software.

New recruits may substitute a Textured Impressions Embossing Folder ($7.95 or less; see pages 218-219) for the Always Bird Décor Elements (p. 233) that comes standard in the Starter Kit

Once you've completed the above steps, Stampin' Up! will send you a password so you can log in to the Demonstrator Web Site where you'll find an abundance of tips, ideas, and training to help you. Approximately one hour after you complete your online IDA, you’ll also receive an email that will explain how to order your FREE Big Shot or up to $100 in Stampin’ Up! products—tax and shipping are free!

I do hold monthly meetings with my local downline girls where we exchange ideas, learn from one another and stamp. I also send out monthly emails with project information and have little rewards system going on. For my long distance girls this all holds true as well, but since they can’t be present at meetings we include them in the swap if wanted so they can get new ideas as well and build their project display. We have lots of fun… why don’t you join us and get paid for loving what you do… I would be honored to have you! Please let me know if you have questions…

Today = Bath Time

2011-09-29T13:42:00.001-04:00

Well – I do bathe more often than just once a week and really don’t have to announce that on my blog!

BUT I wanted to share with you the view I had earlier – an no worries it’s clean in more than one way:

Heheheeeee – this is the majority of my clear blocks and while getting the stamp supplies into the baskets for Stamp-a-Stack tonight, I saw just how nasty some of them had gotten. So I decided it was bath time!

On a more serious note… if you get permanent ink like StazOn onto your blocks, no worries! The good ole StazOn Cleaner will take it off. I then wash them all in HOT water with dish soap to make sure that the oil film comes off again!

So now they are drying off and will be sparkly and ready for tonight!

See you all soon!

Scentsy Thank You’s and MDS tutorial

2011-09-29T09:16:00.001-04:00

Some of you know that I also sell Scentsy. And I decided to combine my 2 Loves… Since I like to thank my customers for ordering, I thought I should treat my Scentsy ones the same as my Stampin’ Up! ones. So I melted 2 scents together and made custom or should I say Designer “mini bricks” for them. Then I made thank you tags in My Digital Studio and put on the little bags with the mini bricks:

And since some of you like to dabble in “MDS” I thought I’d show you in a mini tutorial how to do this!

1) After you opened MDS, started a new project with a blank page, you insert the Decorative Label Puch:

2) Then you’ll add a Mat, and make it a skinny line:

3) Then you change the color fill to white or anything that doesn’t annoy you while planning… or fill with DSP if wanted:

4) Now you can add your text because you know ho big you can go:

5) “Thanks” stamp was added and color changed”:

6) The Punch shape was DELETED:

7) Coy and paste 2x. Then highlight the row of 3 and copy and paste 4 more times to get a sheet with 15.

8) Print out and then use REAL punch to punch out…

Now even my fingers still smell good from making the little bags

Have a wonderful day!

Not a lot of stamping…

2011-09-26T21:47:00.001-04:00

… but lots of fun anyway!

Let me show you my quick little card I made today:

This is one of those cards that I made from “stuff” from the stamp desk… To be honest the way my desk looks like right now, I could make at least 1000 more…

Can you guess what this flower is made from? Besides the obvious like the scallop circle of course?

Weeeellllll – you see, we have those HUGS designer buttons in the Holiday Mini catalog right now and our 1-1/4” circle punch fits perfectly inside of it! Isn’t that just cool!

So I used one of the buttons in More Mustard and spritzed it with the Log Cabin Smooch Spray first… Just because I wanted to know if you could! It works great, I did heat-set it though…

This gives you another use for the buttons that you may not have thought of right away…

Have fun stamping!

Monthly Technique Classes are back

2011-09-22T19:07:00.002-04:00

It had been a couple of months without our “Try This Technique Sunday” classes. But they are BACK! We’ve had our fun class Sunday and did a neat technique this time. But before I get to that. I wanted to point out that now you can learn techniques even if you can’t come to the class because of time limit or because you are too far away.
I am now also offering an online version, where you would be invited to a blog just for that. It requires you to sign up for a free google/gmail account so you can sign in.
The fee for the online version is only $5 (or $6 if you want to pay via paypal). You would get not only access to the videos (technique and finishing off the 2 cards in segments so you can decide what to watch), but you will also get the technique cover page to add to your book, you will also see large photos of the 2 cards and the 2 instruction sheets in pdf as well (in case you would like to copy the cards at home).
The technique this month is called “Faux Flannel” and here is a close up of the background:

Here are the cards we did:

We had lots of fun and hope you can join us next time… if not, don’t forget about the online option!

For those that want instant access and want to pay by PayPal, click on the button:

Happy stamping…

MDS and Chocolates

2011-09-20T19:56:00.001-04:00

… go together very well from the get go. But NOW, we even have the digital download for the “It’s a wrap Holidays” stamp set, like in the Holiday Mini Catalog.

I just couldn’t resist! Well, I ordered more than that but will share those later…

So of course my mind went 1000 miles a minute. Because I knew I wanted to “color in” the image with different colors, omit a word and then print it in MS word right onto the sticky labels!

And I DID!

Here is the little group:

And here is my mini tutorial!

I opened a blank project in 8 1/2 by 11 and inserted the stamp, colored it in Chocolate Chip:

Then I decided I needed to cover up the word “Give”, because I just wanted to make little Thank You gifts. So I inserted a square punch, colored it in Chocolate Chip and sized it down:

Then pulled it over the word “Give”. Then I wanted to “color” the white images. So I inserted a square punch and sized it to match the label. Then instead of coloring it in with a plain color, I used DSP which I sized down in pattern (double click and then + or –):

After that, I pulled it over the label and sent all the way to the back. Since I wanted the word “Thanks” in a different color, I opened several oval punches and filled with Cajun Craze:

I then pulled them over the word to cover it completely:

And here is the finished look:

After that, I saved it as a “jpeg” so I could manipulate it… meaning I had to crop out all of the white area surrounding the label.

Then I used MS word with a full sheet of empty labels and inserted MY BEAUTIFUL one… copied and pasted several times.

I just need to get a little better with centering them in the little boxes so I don’t have to use my paper cutter to trim off a white border

But all in all… I just LOVE this. It may seem like a lot of work to you, but it really wasn’t. I had tons of fun making them!

Hope you’ve enjoyed this little tutorial…

Custom A2 Envelopes

2011-09-18T14:02:00.002-04:00

So today I thought I should share with you guys how to make your own pretty A2 aka “Invitation Size” Envelopes that will work with your 5 1/2 by 4 1/4 cards…

I pulled out my new “Simply Scored” Tool and made a little tutorial and also show you a trick for the place markers!

Edited to add - here are the steps so you can copy them onto a piece of paper and print. This way you can keep it on hand:

Cut Designer Series Paper to 7 1/4" by 10 1/4"
Put Paper onto the Simply Scored Scoring Tool in Portrait, score at 3/4" and 6 1/2'.
Flip paper 90 degrees (=Landscape) and score at 2 1/4" and 6 3/4"
Use Paper Snips to remove four outer corners and create tabs
Assemble

Now you can make the envelopes yourself and have it match your cards… How neat is that?!
Have a wonderful Sunday… I am getting ready to have fun at Technique Class!

Scrapbooking is back in da house!

2011-09-16T11:39:00.001-04:00

After a LONG break from holding scrapbooking classes, I’ve had my first class yesterday.

I had it set up that people could start coming over as early as 3pm. So it would be easier to work on the 12 x12 pages since not everyone would show up at the same time. They just had to tell me at sign up what time they would arrive to give me an idea..

So I set the room up that one table had the supplies, samples and page pieces for 2. And the other table had the extra page supplies for those that would arrive later. Here is a view of the room before the ladies arrived:

And here are close up’s of the pages:

I know I still have to work on my skills on how to take better pictures of 12x12 pages. You should have seen me! I was standing on a chair… Do I need to say more?

Anyway, I also wanted to point out that the header on page 1 was created in “My Digital Studio”.

I just have to tell you how much I LOVE the “Alphabet punches” in MDS. They are simply AWESOME!!!!!! I used the “Smitten” and “Timless Type” Alphabet punches. The word “time” was done with the “Smitten” and color filled in Creamy Caramel (yes retired, but still available in MDS!) and the word “Beach” was don with the “Timless Type” and then filled with Small Polka Dots DSP in Not Quite Navy. The 2 words “at the” were simply typed as text and colored in Rich Razzleberry…

I had created that on a 8 1/2 by 11 page, printed out and cut into a strip..

Of course since I had to do multiples, I had 3 of those on one page before I printed…

We have a winner!

2011-09-15T10:23:00.001-04:00

Look at what our closed poll is telling us today:

That means, that this month again card #2 won. BUT this time it was created by:
Ellen Coats!

What a nice clean and elegant look this card has!

Ellen is part of my Tuesday Stamp Club, and I know she can use a little pick-me-up this month!

Congratulations Ellen on winning!!! I will have your grand prize (my extra set of demo items from this month) ready for you. If I don’t hear from you, I will just include them into the stamp club order once that’s in.

Thank you ALL for creating such wonderful cards, and for voting! I’m looking forward to see what the ladies will come up with next month!

Holiday Stocking, or is it?!

2011-09-14T18:00:00.001-04:00

Hi guys, today I am showing you the extra cute project that I demoed last weekend.

Lots of you already know about the Holiday Stocking die from the Holiday Mini Catalog. And while it’s already a very neat product, it makes it even better when you see just how versatile it is.

Here is another use for it:

Now how stinkin’ cute is THAT? I simply cut 2 stockings, textured one and attached to one another… The scallop border was cut with the “Tasteful Trim” die.

The “treat” stick is attached to a piece of cardstock. I simply punched a hole at one end and pulled the tab of the cello bag through and then attached to itself with the sealable flap. The piece of Cardstock can also be used as a Gift Card Holder…

The cello bags (also from the current mini catty) are filled with medium (really? They seem huge) M&M’s with almonds.

What kid (including myself) wouldn’t be thrilled to get a cute card like that?!

Warmest of Wishes

2011-09-13T16:53:00.001-04:00

Today I am going to share you 2 cards that I had demonstrated last Saturday because I knew the hostess(es) liked this specific hostess set. It’s called “Warmest of Wishes” and is from the current Holiday Mini Catalog.

I wanted to use the Halloween Owl right from the beginning and made this easy card:

I decided on easy because it was a group of first time stampers and wanted to make sure they knew that they can do that too.

So I stamped the owl in black craft ink and heat embossed with clear embossing powder and then used my Pumpkin Pie Marker to color in where needed… The background was textured with the spider web embossing folder and black speckles were added with the color spritz tool and black marker…

I also knew that not everyone would care for Halloween so I made another card ahead of time using the wreath from that same set. It’s the same layout, but different colors:

I inked up the wreath in Peach Parfait ink first and then used my Always Artichoke and Early Espresso Markers to go over some of the leaves on the rubber stamp (right over the Peach Parfait ink! You can always add darker on top of lighter ink…). Then I stamped it on white CS, and punched the inside out first using the 1 1/4” circle. Then I used the LARGE scallop circle punch and punched out the wreath…

The images on both cards were popped up, of course!

Come back tomorrow for the way cute project I’ve promised to share

Gently Falling Nuggets

2011-09-12T15:02:00.001-04:00

Nooooo, we don’t have chocolate nuggets falling from the sky… so no need to look out when you come over next time.

We do have a way cute treat holder, made from the “Two Tags” Die, that holds 1-2 chocolate nuggets.

I had a workshop on Saturday and made this for the Make-and-Take:

All you need to do is cut TWO of the longer shape that’s on that die. Then you’ll score each at 1” from the bottom (on the straight edge, not the scalloped one). That will become the “bottom” of you treat holder once you tape the 2 flaps together! The chocolate nugget was adhered inside, you cold easily put another one right on top of the first one… if you really like that person, that is

We did use shimmer spray on the smaller leaf, but I am not sure you can see that in the picture… I used the Crop-a-Dile to punch a hole through both layers at the same time. The Old Olive Ribbon was used to tie it together. VERY easy – and way cute.

Speaking of cute… I have a few more projects to share from the workshop – I will of course keep the cutest one for last! So stop by often.

Also, let me know if you would like to be a hostess to make cute fall/winter projects at your house or mine!

Nail Polish Greetings

2011-09-11T13:40:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow is my niece Emily’s birthday. And since I really don’t know what little ladies like these days, I had asked her what she would like for her Birthday. Mind you, at first she said “nothing”! What a sweet child. But I couldn’t let that go and told her to email me a list. So that “list” consisted of ONE item… Pink Crackle Nail Polish… So aunt Claudia did some research and made up a little kit for her with 2 different colors of base coat, 2 different crackle polishes, top coat and nail polish remover… That all went into a decorated tin:

I used the DSP called “Flirtatious”, which has the perfect colors

And to top it off I made her a “special” birthday card:

This card was so much fun to make! It’s a hybrid card. Well the card itself is “traditional”, only the nail polish bottle was created in “My Digital Studio”!

I’ve purchased a kit to use with “Sure Cuts a Lot” that has the bottle pieces in it, and they are SVG (vector) files. So once I had them on my computer, I copied them into the MDS folders as explained here previously.

I added the “glare” to the bottle by using an oval punch in white and changed the shape of it…

The “crackle” on the cap was done with the 2 of caps actually. One in Melon Mambo and another one right on top of it, which was filled with the DSP “Vintage Overlays” in black. The Label and greeting was added in MDS as well…

The bottle was printed out onto Whisper White CS, cut out and added to card. The Rhinestones are “traditional” not printed.

Emily received the gift already and maybe she was able to use it at her slumber party last night?

Happy Birthday, Emily! Enjoy your hip polishes and have a great day tomorrow!

September Stamp Club Swaps

2011-09-07T22:30:00.001-04:00

Hi Guys – yesterday we had the last stamp club meeting for the month and that means we have all the photos of this month’s swap cards.

The theme this month was to use the color combo of Lucky Limeade and Island Indigo. The ladies were allowed to add neutrals (white, black and brown)...

Then I made it a little easier and said, if they don't have those 2 colors yet, they could use Pear Pizzaz or Old Olive and Not quite Navy. Or just do any green/blue combination that is pleasing to the eye.

Here are the entries:

#1:

#2:

#3:

#4:

#5:

#6:

#7:

#8:

#9:

#10

This is a wonderful display of all the great talent! Thanks ladies for playing along.

Now – everyone, please go and cast your vote for your favorite card this month.

Designer Sponge Holders

2011-09-06T17:18:00.001-04:00

Now-a-days we have everything “Designer”. Like Designer Fabric, Designer Brads, Designer Series Paper, etc.

So I thought, why not have “Designer” Sponge Holders? Hey, we do sponging in style now!

And if you were to give some of those as gifts, you need to do that in style as well! In a little holder with, of course, Designer Fabric on it

I simply tore a strip of the fabric, made sure that both sides were fraying and used it like a ribbon.

And this is how it looks when they are tucked in there:

Now I better get off the computer so I can get ready for the stamp club meeting tonight…

Glimmer again

2011-09-05T17:48:00.001-04:00

Really quick post! Today I just had to try out another color on the Silver Glimmer Paper!

I used Calypso Coral without the rubbing alcohol:

And here is the close-up:

I am just sooooooo thrilled and hope you all will give it a try as well.

Better get ready for Stamp Club now… Have a nice evening!

Custom Glimmer Paper

2011-09-04T13:55:00.001-04:00

Oh Yeah!!! So I thought with our new Silver Glimmer Paper, we should be able to “dye” it any color we want. And… I was right!

Look:

I simply “painted” on the “Island Indigo” Re-inker liquid.

I did mix some rubbing alcohol into the re-inker, but think next time I won’t do that and might get a darker outcome. It turned out a LOT lighter.

Here is the card I made:

I like it when we can use our cool goodies in many ways!

Have a great Labor Day!

Wreath for all Season

2011-09-02T15:51:00.001-04:00

Today I wanted to share a little project with you that I’ve worked on yesterday. It is inspired by the gorgeous wreath on page 6 in the Holiday Mini Catalog, which introduces the new great “Simply Scored” Tool. If you don’t own a score board yet, this one is a must! It has place holders that will make it snap to make lots of the same without having to remember where to score!

Here is the photo of the wreath in the mini:

The wreath that I made was a trial run for my upcoming class in September:

I used completely different DSP and gave it a summery look. It’s also way smaller than the one we’ll do in class. The one for class will use Fall colors, the Well Worn DSP. You can see the details here.

I am just waiting for my DSP to come in so I can make the real one… But if you already want to sign up let me know… I am thinking this one might fill up quickly, even with the 2 sessions…

PS: I took my picture to soon. I had added another flower over the hole on the bottom right and added rhinestones over each small flower. But too late, I gave it away already. But you never know… I may play some more this weekend.

Christmas Stamp-a-Stack

2011-08-28T21:12:00.001-04:00

Today was the last session for this month’s Stamp-a-Stack. We had 3 different designs, made 5 cards each and the ladies walked out with 15 Christmas Cards!

Here is the first one:

Supplies used:

Category	Item #	Description
Eyelets	100476	Stampin Dimensionals
Ink Pad	119670	Classic Stampin' Pad - NC Early Espresso
Ink Pad	115657	Classic Stampin' Pad - NC Soft Suede
Ink Pad	119719	Craft Stampin' Spots - Neutrals Collection
Paper	120953	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Crumb Cake
Paper	119686	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Early Espresso
Pieces	104337	Brads - Gold
Product	116806	Shimmer Paint - Champagne Mist
Sizzix Die	113463	Sizzix Bigz Die - Top Note (SU! excl)
Sizzix Die	123128	Sizzix Textured Impressions Folder - Stripes (SU! excl)
Stamps	116816	Dasher
Stamps	115026	Lovely As a Tree
Stamps	122497	Petite Pairs - Clear-Mount
Stamps	115438	Serene Snowflakes

Card #2:

Supplies used:

Category	Item #	Description
Inches	117286	Ribbon, 5/8" Satin - Real Red
Ink Pad	103133	Classic Stampin' Pad - BC Real Red
Ink Pad	105219	Classic Stampin' Pad - RC Always Artichoke
Ink Pad	101406	StazOn Ink Pad - Jet Black
Marker	102845	Blender Pens
Paper	102482	CS - 8.5x11 - BC Real Red
Paper	101849	CS - 8.5x11 - Naturals Ivory
Paper	105119	CS - 8.5x11 - RC Always Artichoke
Product	103954	Aqua Painter (1 medium and 1 large)
Product	116806	Shimmer Paint - Champagne Mist
Sizzix Die	123130	Sizzix Textured Impressions Folder Set - Designer Frames (SU! excl)
Stamps	123225	Easy Events - Clear-Mount

Just a little tip on how to use the little embossing folder frames without getting the unwanted outside lines… Here is what I did:
1) I taped a cardstock piece the exact size of the frame on the backside of the frame folder

2) Used Tab 2, put a DSP cardboard piece under it as a shim

3) Add Embossing Folder with CS in it

4) Use ONE clear cutting pad only

And here is Card #3:

Supplies used:

Category	Item #	Description
Ink Pad	119785	Classic Stampin' Pad - IC Concord Crush
Ink Pad	122936	Classic Stampin' Pad - IC Wisteria Wonder
Paper	119792	CS - 8.5x11 - IC Concord Crush
Paper	122922	CS - 8.5x11 - IC Wisteria Wonder
Paper	100730	CS - 8.5x11 - NC Whisper White
Pieces	104430	Adhesive - Stampin' Dimensionals
Product	116806	Shimmer Paint - Champagne Mist
Punch	122362	Punch - Ribbon Lace Border
Stamps	120594	Contempo Christmas - Clear-Mount
Stamps	122592	Delicate Doilies - Clear-Mount

Even though some of you guys weren’t too happy that you had to cut out those doilies “by hand” you still had a good time and I am happy we all had such a nice afternoon!

Fresh Air

2011-08-25T19:28:00.001-04:00

Oh my – I am SOOOOOO excited with what I came up with today!

Some of you may know that I also sell Scentsy and how addicted I am to the great scents. While I love all of the products I am not so very happy with the air-fresheners they have. (don’t last long enough for me. I am not bashing the product… just my personal opinion). So I started out on a mission to “make” my own air-freshener.

And what better thing to do than to “marry” your 2 obsessions… Stampin’ Up! and Scentsy … and they make a good pair:

Close-ups:

I used my BigShot and and the “Fun Flowers” die with some “Springtime Vintage” Designer Fabric… retired Designer Brad, Designer Button and thread … THEN I used some of the awesome room spray from Scentsy and sprayed it on the fabric. Voila… now I have a “Designer” air freshener . I of course sprayed it with “Inner Piece” which sadly is retiring at the end of the month (but I stocked up and now have at least 6 bottles).

And the coolest thing is that once I notice that it looses it’s scent, I can just spray some more on the fabric again.

I put it in the car right before I went to Ft. Benning today and had to tell myself to pay attention to the traffic and not my new pretty and oh-so good smelling air-freshener. I did make it home OK!

Letters are Fun!

2011-08-24T20:32:00.001-04:00

I was playing in “My Digital Studio” once again! And I couldn’t resist to purchase 2 of our newer downloads! We have some cool Alphabet “Punches” now! You might wonder WHAT on earth is that… Well they are Letters like in the alphabet, BUT with the function of a digital punch! So you can size them ever which way you want without messing up the pixilation AND more important than that, you can fill them with DSP’s and photos! Way cool.

Here is one little project I made:

The word “Fall” was created with the “Timeless Type Junior Letters” Punch. And let me tell you this one has upper and lower case letters and the numbers too. What a great value!!!! Then the word “fun” was created with the “Smitten Alphabet” Punch, which is just way cute!

So go and look at our downloads, treat yourself and then have fun creating!

I am off to finish my fall sign which will go into an acrylic frame for the fridge… Once I have my camera back (Rob borrowed it today) I ‘ll share…