Sweet Impressions

San Antonio Regionals

2012-01-25T11:48:00.000-06:00

Well, I did make it back from San Antonio! I had a wonderful time not only at the Regionals but spending time with friends too! It's amazing how hard it is to be away from family though--I still feel like I'm trying to catch up around the house even though I was only gone two days. :-)

Anyway, here's a picture of the card that I made approximately 20 times during my Workshop Wow Demonstrator Booth presentation during the Regional. I had about a 10 minute presentation that I repeated over and over. Surprisingly the time went very quickly, and only my voice was worn out by the end.

The technique I was sharing was using Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets to adhere Dazzling Diamond Glitter to your projects. A very simple but effective technique. If you've followed my blog for awhile, this isn't a new concept for you as I do this a lot!

So I stamped the flower image (from the new stamp set Mixed Bunch found in the Occasions Mini Catalog), peeled off one side of the Multipurpose Adhesive Sheet, and then face-planted it on top of the stamped image. So the sticky part is touching the image. Use your bone folder to burnish it--to make sure all the adhesive transfers to your card stock. Next I used my Blossom Punch (also new in the Occasions Mini Catalog) to punch out the image with the adhesive sheet on top. Burnish the edges again with your bone folder and then peel off the second side of the Adhesive Sheet. Last, pour your Dazzling Diamonds over the top. Now you have a fantastically sparkly flower. :-)

I added the flower to the card base (Sahara Sand) that also had some of the new Blushing Bride Pleated Satin Ribbon and a strip of Perfect Plum card stock that I ran through the Big Shot with one of the new Adorning Accents Embossing folders. In the center of the flower is one of the new Large Pearls. So many fun new accessories!

Stamps: Mixed Bunch, Elements of Style (sentiment)

Ink: Perfect Plum, Blushing Bride

Paper: Sahara Sand, Perfect Plum, Whisper White
Accessories: Blushing Bride Pleated Satin Ribbon, Large Pearls, 1" Circle Punch, Blossom Punch, Dazzling Diamonds, Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets, Adorning Accents Embossing Folder, Big Shot, dimensionals

Another card sample using the same technique and the same layout:

I still have more samples to share, so I'll be back later. Unfortunately I forgot to ask someone to take a picture of me while I was busy doing all this, or even my display board, so you'll just have to imagine that part. :-) Thanks so much to everyone who stopped by to say hi during the presentation last Saturday--I really appreciated it!

Stamps: Pennant Parade

Ink: Island Indigo, Lucky Limeade, Tangerine Tango

Paper: Luck Limeade, Whisper White

Accessories: Petite Pennants Builder Punch, 1/2" Circle Punch, Tangerine Tango Scallop Dots Ribbon, Linen Thread, 1 3/4" Circle Punch, Dazzling Diamonds, Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets, Stripes Embossing Folder, Big Shot, dimensionals

Off to San Antonio

2012-01-20T12:06:00.000-06:00

This weekend I am exciting to be heading to San Antonio for a Stampin' Up Regional Conference! I am lucky to be attending with one of my downline and two friends.

I applied, and then was asked to present during the conference as part of the 'workshop wow' portion--first thing of the day. So if you are also going to be in San Antonio this weekend for Regionals, stop by my booth and say "hi". :-)

I've been stamping a lot this week getting ready for the presentation, so I'll be back next week with pictures of what I've been up to!

Have a great weekend!

Vintage Doilies

2012-01-19T07:00:00.001-06:00

Normally I wouldn't consider myself a 'doily person', but I do love the Delicate Doilies set in the catalog. I've had have fun playing with the set, and this is a vintage-ish card I came up with a while ago:

This card uses the emboss-resist technique. I stamped the doily image with Versamark ink onto Very Vanilla card stock. Next I heat embossed with Clear Stampin' Emboss Powder and then sponged over the top with Soft Suede ink. I sponged more in the middle (darker) and then faded out to the edges. The embossed part 'resists' the ink and stays Very Vanilla in color. A simple 'wow' technique!

The middle of the doily has one of the Antique Brads. On the larger Very Vanilla panel, I used my Color Spritzer Tool to add a little texture and then sponged and distressed the edges. The ribbon is the Victoria Crochet Trim.

For the tag, I used the Tiny Tags stamp set, Soft Suede ink and the Jewelry Tag punch. I attached it to the ribbon using a bit of Linen Thread and one of the safety pins from the Vintage Trinkets embellishment set. A close up of that:

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Delicate Doilies, Tiny Tags

Ink: Soft Suede, Versamark

Paper: Very Vanilla, Soft Suede

Accessories: Clear Stampin' Emboss Powder, Heat Tool, Embossing Buddy, Jewelry Tag Punch, Vintage Trinkets, Victoria Crochet Trim, Antique Brads, Linen Thread, Cutter Kit, Color Spritzer Tool (and Soft Suede marker) sponge, dimensionals

Baby and Button Buddies

2012-01-17T14:59:00.000-06:00

Well, first I want to thank anyone who is still reading/subscribing to my blog during my long absence! I did have my baby--and she is already 7 months old! It really is hard to believe how fast time goes. :-)

Here is a picture of my little cutie:

So she's one of my excuses for not blogging. :-) I've also been struggling with some post-pregnancy health complications, although I think I'm hopefully almost out of woods with all that now too. So, my goal is to get back into the habit of posting on my blog. I have been stamping a little here and there--thanks to my clubs who keep my stamping!

So here's a card for today:

This is a card I made up to put as a 'thank you' into customer orders. The flower image is from the set Button Buddies. I inked with Daffodil Delight and then carefully rolled the edges of the stamp in Pumpkin Pie ink before stamping onto Whisper White paper. I punched out with the 1 3/4" Scallop Circle Punch and then added the Pumpkin Pie Designer Button and Lined Thread bow. The flower is also up on dimensionals.

The other two flowers were stamped with Old Olive and Rich Razzleberry. I distressed the edges of the Whisper White layer with my Cutter Kit and mounted it on a 3" by 3" Rich Razzleberry base.

See you again soon!

Stamps: Button Buddies

Ink: Daffodil Delight, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive, Rich Razzleberry

Paper: Whisper White, Rich Razzleberry

Accessories: 1 3/4" Circle Punch, Linen Thread, Brights Designer Buttons

Open Sea Thanks

2011-07-14T07:30:00.001-05:00

With all of the excitement of the new catalog, don't forget that we have great Summer Mini Catalog too. :-) This is a card I've made with all of my stampers clubs, and it features The Open Sea stamp set. I really like this stamp set as it works perfectly for masculine projects as well as travel-related projects.

This idea came from one of the Stampin' Success (for demonstrators) magazine. Although I generally like to create my own projects, I'll admit it is nice to have fantastic ideas provided by Stampin' Up so that if I am short on ideas or time I still have great projects.

This card actually uses every single stamp that is part of The Open Sea stamp set--kind of fun. :-) Minus the ship that is on the card base, they are all stamped on a piece of Whisper White card stock. I sponged around the edges and lightly everywhere with Crumb Cake ink. That piece is layered on a piece of Designer Series Paper from the coordinating Nautical Expedition DSP pack.

The finishing touches are a Mini Library Clip with a bit of the new Early Espresso/White Baker's Twine tied around.

Stamps: The Open Sea, Thank You Kindly (sentiment)

Ink: More Mustard, Basic Gray, Not Quite Navy, Crumb Cake

Paper: Nautical Expedition DSP, Not Quite Navy, Whisper White

Accessories: Mini Library Clip, Early Espresso/White Baker's Twine, dimensionals

Fabric Flower Magnets

2011-07-07T07:30:00.001-05:00

Awhile back I ran across the idea for these cute flower magnets over at Becky's blog Inking Idaho. You can see her magnets HERE. You'll notice that I copied her adorable Not Quite Navy/Springtime Vintage fabric magnet idea, and then I had fun with some of the other Stampin Up fabrics as well. I made up a bunch of these and used these as 'thank yous' for customer orders.

These magnets are made using the Fun Flowers Bigz Die. I ran the card stock and fabric through the Big Shot with the die. I sponged the edges of the flowers and then adhered everything together. I used dimensionals between the bottom layer and the fabric layer, and then snail and glue dots between the fabric and top layer. The centers are the Ribbon Rosettes or the Designer Big Buttons (both now discontinued).

The 'dream' sentiment comes from the Fabulous Phrases stamp set. To turn these into magnets, I used my 1 3/8" Circle punch to punch a circle magnet from the Magnet Sheets that you can find on page 216 of the catalog. (Yes, you really can use your punches with the Magnet Sheets!) The Magnet Sheets already come with adhesive on one side so it was easy to add them to the back of the flowers.

Thanks for stopping by! Take time to stamp something fun. :-)

Stamps: Fabulous Phrases

Ink: Bashful Blue, Always Artichoke, Not Quite Navy

Paper: Pink Pirouette, Rose Red, Not Quite Navy, Very Vanilla, Whisper White

Accessories: Candy Cane Christmas Designer Fabric, Springtime Vintage Designer Fabric, Big Shot, Fun Flowers Bigz die, Ribbon Rosettes, Designer Big Buttons, 1 3/8" Circle punch, Magnet Sheets

Stamp Set Parade--Part 2

2011-06-29T07:30:00.002-05:00

Welcome to Part 2 of the Stamp Set Parade! I'm showing off some of my favorite stamp sets that will be discontinued come June 30th (tomorrow!). To see the first part of the Stamp Set Parade, click HERE. If you still have some sets or accessories on your list--make sure to get them right away! To view all of the Last Chance items in the online store click HERE.

Most of the sets I'm showcasing today are ones that have been around for awhile--classic sets that I've used a lot over the years.

The first one is Pick a Petal.

Original post HERE.

Another fun set is Sock Monkey--great for a variety of occasions.

Original post HERE.

I'll also miss the set Always.

Original post HERE.

Although Baby Steps isn't a 'classic set' since it was new in this catalog, it is a single stamp great for baby cards!

Original post HERE.

A Good Egg is one of those sets that I have had for years and love pulling out every year for Easter!

Original post HERE.

One of my favorite floral sets being discontinued is Eastern Blooms.

Original post HERE.

And last but not least, the stamp set Love You Much has been a classic favorite of mine. And it's not only for Valentine's Day.

Original post HERE.

Remember that tomorrow is the last day to purchase items from the Last Chance list! Contact me today if you'd like to purchase any of the Last Chance items. Or, you can shop in my online store. Click HERE and then on "shop now" in the top right corner.

Thanks for stopping by!

Postage Card Packs

2011-06-27T07:30:00.002-05:00

I made up several of these card sets as end-of -the-year teacher appreciation gifts. I figure that teachers can always use thank you cards around the end of the year, so I made up sets of 8 to package together as gifts.

These are really simple card sets to make. I used my Postage Stamp Punch from the Summer Mini Catalog and the Play Date Designer Series Paper. Note: the Play Date DSP is being discontinued, and is on sale for 40% off right now!

I also used the new White Baker's Twine from the Summer Mini Catalog to add a few little details. Almost all of the squares are up on dimensionals. On the bottom card in the photo, I put the top right and bottom left squares up on dimensionals and adhered the other two down to the card base--gives a little more variety in depth and adds interest. The sentiment comes from the stamp set Trendy Trees.

The other cards in the set:

You'll notice I used 3 different layouts and just varied the patterns of paper used. To see the original card set that inspired this set, click HERE. For these sets I ran out of time to make up some card folders, so I just tied them up with some Early Espresso Striped Grosgrain ribbon and added a tag.

HERE is another project set that I made using the Play Date DSP--also a possible idea for a teacher appreciation gift.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Trendy Trees

Ink: Early Espresso

Paper: Crumb Cake, Whisper White, Play Date DSP

Accessories: Postage Stamp punch, White Baker's Twine, Word Window punch, Modern Label Punch, dimensionals

Stamp Set Parade--Part 1

2011-06-24T07:30:00.077-05:00

In my recent posts I've been focusing on the accessories that will be discontinued as of June 30--but there are a lot of great stamps that will be leaving too! So, I thought it would be fun to show you some of my favorite sets that will be discontinued. For the complete pdf list, click HERE.

The #1 set that I will miss the most? Hands down it is All Holidays! It is one of my all time favorite sentiment sets, and I use it quite frequently. I did a search on my blog to find samples with this set and came back with a lot of hits. :-)

Here are just two cards that use the All Holidays set:

Original post HERE.

Another stamp I used a lot (even though it is a single stamp) is So Many Thanks. Here are a couple cards using that stamp:

Original post HERE--shows other samples with this stamp too.

Original post HERE.

All of the "extreme" individual stamps are being discontinued. This card showcases the Extreme Skateboard stamp. Although these stamps didn't initially seem like 'my style,' I've enjoyed using them for masculine and (particularly) teen and tween cards.

Original post HERE.

Another set I've used for the boys in my life is the Lots of Bots set. This has been a good one for little boy birthdays.

Original post HERE.

Original post HERE. Note: Here's another card using the All Holidays sentiment set. :-)

This has been fun for me to look back through cards using these stamp sets. Check back next Wednesday for part two of the Stamp Set Parade!

Merry Tags

2011-06-22T07:30:00.000-05:00

Back with another project that is showcasing accessory items that will soon be discontinued! These are little tags that we made at a class last year before Christmas. I am pretty sure that I found this (or a similar) idea somewhere, although unfortunately I did not keep track of where or who I received the inspiration from.

These tags are really simple to make--the tag is the Big Shot Merry Embosslit die. The embosslit cuts the tag and hole and dry embosses the 'merry' all at once. The bird, trees, and snowflake all come from the Merry Details Sizzlets die. Both are being discontinued, and are on sale for 25% off while supplies last or until June 30th.

I added the 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon to the tops and pearls to the trees and bird and a rhinestone to the snowflake. Along the sides of the tags are pieces punched using the Scallop Edge Border punch or the Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border punch.

A simple way to personalize your holiday gifts!

Paper: Whisper White, Real Red, Marina Mist, Old Olive

Accessories: Real Red, Marina Mist, and Old Olive 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, pearls, rhinestones, Scallop Edge Border Punch, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch

Charming Bookmark

2011-06-20T07:30:00.000-05:00

A few years ago at convention, someone showed this cute idea to use the Hodgepodge Hardware to make bookmarks. I hadn't ever tried it myself until recently, but these are actually pretty quick and easy to make--and what a fun gift!

Here's a closer look:

I started by stamping on Very Vanilla card stock with the stamp set Charming. Both the script stamp and the flowers are part of that set. After stamping I punched out with the Designer Label punch (being discontinued) and added some pearl jewels to the flowers.

Hint: As you pull the ribbon through the holes, it will shred a little. Don't worry, just trim it after you pull it through.

To get the punched image to stay in the metal frame, I used Crystal Effects. (Did you know that CE is a great adhesive?) I placed the punched image in the frame and then took the Crystal Effects around the edges between the card stock and frame. You don't need a lot to get it to hold together. If you like, you can punch out a second piece and carefully lay it on top to 'clean up' the edges a bit and hide some of the Crystal Effects.

Unfortunately several of the items used to make this project are being discontinued! The Hodgepodge Hardware is being discontinued, but for now it is on sale for 40% off! Both the Old Olive 5/8" grosgrain ribbon and the Rich Razzleberry Taffeta ribbon are being discontinued as well. As accessory items, they are available only while supplies last, or until June 30th. To view all of the Last Chance items in the online store click HERE.

Hope you've enjoyed this project!

Stamps: Charming

Ink: Sahara Sand, Rich Razzleberry and Old Olive markers

Paper: Very Vanilla

Accessories: Hodgepodge Hardware, Old Olive 5/8" grosgrain ribbon, Rich Razzleberry Taffeta ribbon, Linen Thread, Pearl Jewels

Father's Day Treats

2011-06-17T07:30:00.000-05:00

At church I work with the children's organization, and I usually try to have some sort of little treat/gift for the teachers on major holidays just to remind the teachers and staff that we appreciate them and all their hard work. So, these are the Father's Day gifts I made up for this year to appreciate all the men who teach classes or work with the Cub Scouts.

I used some Designer Paper that was in my stash--I believe it was from the Summer Mini last year--and just wrapped the mini candy bars. I used a tiny bit of Snail adhesive between the bars to help hold the stack together while I tied on the ribbon and tag.

The tags use the Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp set. I stamped and then punched out using the Word Window punch and the Modern Label punch.

I quite enjoyed making up these little treats since they were very quick and simple. Just by altering the Designer Paper that you use, I think these would be great for party favors too (birthday, baby shower, etc).

Have a great Father's Day weekend!

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes

Ink: Night of Navy, Bashful Blue

Paper: Designer Series Paper, Night of Navy, Bashful Blue, Whisper White

Accessories: Word Window punch, Modern Label punch, linen thread, Night of Navy grosgrain ribbon, mini candy bars

Lots of Blossoms

2011-06-15T07:30:00.004-05:00

With all the excitement of the Last Chance Lists and the anticipation of the new catalog, it's easy to forget that there is a Summer Mini Catalog full of great products. :-) This is a card we made at my clubs, and the idea actually came from the Stampin' Success (for demonstrators) magazine. Although I generally like to create my own projects for my classes, I'll admit it is nice to have wonderful ideas provided by Stampin' Up so that if I'm short on ideas or time I still have fun projects.

This card showcases the new Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer punch found on page 6 of the Mini Catalog. These are a new style of punch, and are awesome, because in one punch there are three coordinating punches--you just slide the front lever to the image you want, and punch. So all of the flowers on this card came from the same punch. It took me a few tries to get the feel of the Triple Layer punch, but now I really like it!

The stamp set used here is the coordinating set Bold Blossom. There is a rhinestone jewel in the middle of the stamped Cherry Cobbler flower. The ribbon is 5/8" Early Espresso Grosgrain Ribbon--soon to be discontinued. The top two flowers and butterfly are up on dimensionals, and the sentiment and bottom flower are not.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Bold Blossom

Ink: Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso, Old Olive

Paper: Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla, Old Olive, Crumb Cake, Daffodil Delight, Peach Parfait, Early Espresso

Accessories: Rhinestone Jewels, Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer punch, 2" by 1 3/8" Oval punch, 3/4" Circle punch, Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack, 5/8" Early Espresso Ribbon, Cutter Kit, dimensionals

Party Treat

2011-06-13T07:30:00.003-05:00

June is passing quickly, and soon we will have a brand new catalog! But for now, you still have the opportunity to purchase Last Chance items from the current catalog. If you haven't seen the pdf list of Last Chance Stamps (ie soon to be discontinued stamp sets) you can see it by clicking HERE. To view all of the Last Chance items (stamps, accessories, decor elements) in the online store click HERE.

The stamp set Party Hearty (a fun birthday set) is on the list of retiring stamps. This fun Mini Milk Carton showcases the Party Hearty stamp set. The milk carton was created by using the Mini Milk Carton Big Shot die. After adhering that together, I wrapped around the Daffodil Delight grosgrain ribbon and then a thin strip of Melon Mambo card stock.

The clip at the top is one of the Library Clips from the Clips Assortment pack and has a bit of 1/8" Daffodil Delight taffeta ribbon tied on. For the main image, I stamped twice, once in Melon Mambo and once in Tempting Turquoise. I used the 3/4" Circle punch to punch out just the center circle. I added some sparkle with Crystal Effects and Dazzling Diamonds glitter.

Note: In addition to the stamp set, the 5/8" Daffodil Delight grosgrain ribbon is being discontinued. In fact, ALL of the 5/8" grosgrain ribbon is being discontinued. In the new catalog this style of ribbon will no longer be available!

Note: By the way, this stamp set can be used for more than birthdays! To see a graduation card I made using this stamp set click HERE.

Stamps: Party Hearty

Ink: Melon Mambo, Tempting Turquoise

Paper: Tempting Turquoise, Melon Mambo, Whisper White

Accessories: Mini Milk Carton die, Big Shot, Library Clip, 1/8" Daffodil Delight Taffeta Ribbon, 5/8" Daffodil Delight Grosgrain Ribbon, Scallop Circle punch, 3/4" punch, Crystal Effects, Dazzling Diamonds, dimensionals

Father's Day Wallet

2011-06-10T09:22:00.005-05:00

As you've noticed my blog has been neglected lately. :-) Ironically I have a whole stack of projects to share--so it's not for lack of stamping on my part. I've been keeping busy getting everything ready for the baby to come. If all goes as scheduled, we'll have a new baby girl join our family next week!

Father's Day is right around the corner. This wallet card is a fun way to present money, gift cards, pictures of the (grand)kids, or coupons. This is an idea that has been around for many years so I can't claim credit for it. This is also a great idea for graduation!

Here's a view of the inside:

Measurements:

9" by 3 1/2" --scored at 4 7/16" and 4 9/16" (sounds scary, but it's just on either side of 4 1/2")

8 1/2" by 3 1/4" --scored at 4 3/16" and 4 5/16" (just on either side of 4 1/4")

4 1/8" by 2" --TWO of these pieces

The measuring is by far the hardest part! The next step is sponging with Soft Suede--the edges and all over to give the soft leather feel. On the largest piece, I used my Mat Pack to paper pierce the edges and a corner rounder punch to round the edges. I used the fine tip end of the Soft Suede marker to 'connect the dots' where I had paper pierced to make it look like it was sewn. Then stamp/embellish as desired. Here I used Plane & Simple (no longer available). Monogramming your wallet is a fun idea too!

Note: When assembling the wallet, make sure to not adhere the 'tops' of the pockets--just the bottom and sides. You'll want to be able to slip in money, gift cards, etc.

Thanks for stopping by! If all goes as planned, I'll be scheduling some posts for the next month or so.

Stamps: Plane & Simple

Ink: Soft Suede (and marker)

Paper: Crumb Cake

Accessories: Mat Pack, Paper Piercing Tool, sponge

Last Chance Lists!

2011-06-03T10:22:00.001-05:00

With the new catalog just around the corner, it's time to bid farewell to some of our favorite stamp sets and accessories in order to make room for all of the new product that is coming July 1st!

Please note that the stamp sets are available until June 3oth, but the accessories are only available while supplies last! Accessory items include Definitely Decorative, wheels, papers, embellishments, Big Shot items, etc. Many items will go quickly, and some accessories are up to 40% off!

Don't miss this last chance to get items still on your wish list!

Last Chance Stamps: view the pdf

To view all of the Last Chance items in the online store click HERE. Please note: to see the sale price on the discounted items, you need to click on the individual item.

Contact me today if you'd like to purchase any of the Last Chance items. Or, you can shop in my online store. Click HERE and then on "shop now" in the top right corner.

Stampin' Celebration #52

2011-05-20T08:18:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe that this is Stampin' Celebration challenge #52 this week--one year of challenges! I don't have anything to share with you right now (I realized hubby is out of town with the camera!), but make sure to take a minute and go check out what the other members of the Design Team created with this inspiration piece--there are some pretty cards.

And then it's your turn! Create something inspired by these pictures and link it to the Stampin' Celebration website. This time you have plenty of time to participate as the Stampin' Celebration Challenge will be taking a summer break! Although this break comes at a good time for me (less than 1 month to baby day!) I will miss the excuse to create at least once a week. :-)

Stampin' Celebration #51

2011-05-12T08:00:00.002-05:00

It's time for this week's Stampin' Celebration Challenge! This week the colors really drew my eye, so I pulled out Old Olive and Marina Mist (a suggestion from the Color Coach) and went to work using my new Summer Splash stamp set from the Summer Mini Catalog.

This is the 'card' and 'envelope' all in one. This crimped envelope idea is one I learned a long time ago, and haven't used forever. The best part is it's really simple. :-) Start with an envelope--here I used a Crumb Cake envelope--seal, and cut off one of the short ends. I cut off 1 3/4" on mine. Then take the bottom half of the envelope and run it through your crimper. (When was the last you pulled out your crimper?) By crimping just the bottom half, it is now just narrow enough for the top section to slip over easily.

To embellish my envelope, I sponged with Crumb Cake, tied around Marina Mist taffeta ribbon and Hemp Twine, and added some surfboards. When you take off the top section, it looks like this:

I used my 1" Circle Punch to take out a little notch--that lets the recipient know there's more inside. And here's a look at what's inside:

So there it is! I kept it pretty simple and didn't do a lot of embellishment. I used my markers to color the surfboards different colors before I stamped. I distressed the edges, sponged Crumb Cake, and matted onto Old Olive.

I think this would be an adorable invitation idea for a summer birthday party! It would also work great for almost any occasion such as birthday or 'hi'. As a side note, this style of card also works really well as a way to give a gift card.

Thanks for coming by! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see who the Party Guest Designer is this week as well as the work from the other Design Team members.

Stamps: Summer Splash
Ink: Marina Mist, Old Olive, Crumb Cake

Paper: Old Olive, Whisper White, Crumb Cake envelope

Accessories: Crimper, Cutter Kit, 1" Circle Punch, sponge, Marina Mist Taffeta Ribbon, Hemp Twine

Nautical Expedition Tins

2011-05-10T07:40:00.004-05:00

Today I'm back with some more photos and details for the second project that I posted during the Stampin' Addicts Summer Mini Blog Hop. You can see my original post HERE. Today I'll show some close ups of the Mini Scrapbook Tin that I made showcasing the Nautical Expedition Designer Series Paper that is found in the new Summer Mini Catalog.

Above you see the outside of the tin. These tins can still be purchased from Stampin Up--but only on the Clearance Rack in the online store--meaning only while supplies last. I added a belly band to the tin with a 2" strip of Basic Gray card stock, a 1" strip of Nautical Expedition DSP, and some White Baker's Twine. The center globe image is from the stamp set The Open Sea--a coordinating set. I hand cut around the globe image and then layered it onto a Cherry Cobbler circle I punched out with the 2 1/2" Circle Punch.

When you slide off the belly band and open the tin, this is what you see:

I think that ship image--again from the set The Open Sea--is one of my favorite. I love how much detail is has, and yet how crisp it is. Notice the little Tab Pull in the top right that is a small piece of Twill Tape looped. When you pull on that you see:

And a closer look at the pages of this mini scrapbook:

The pages are 4 3/4" tall and 4" wide. I started with two pieces of Whisper White card stock that were 4 3/4" by 12" and then scored at 4" and 8". I accordion folded them and adhered the last section of one to the first section of the next to make a continuous accordion fold. I used Sticky Strip to adhere the card stock to the tin.

Thanks for coming by! These little Mini Scrapbook Tins are easy to make and make great gifts. I hope this gave a better look at this project. You should be able to click on any of the pictures for a closer (enlarged) look at the projects.

Stamps: The Open Sea

Ink: Early Espresso, Basic Gray

Paper: Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler, Basic Gray, Whisper White, Nautical Expedition DSP

Accessories: Tin, White Baker's Twine, Early Espresso/White Baker's Twine, Cutter Kit, 1 3/4" x 7/8" Oval Punch, Round Tab Punch, 2 1/2" Circle Punch

Nautical Expedition Cards

2011-05-09T10:32:00.000-05:00

I'm finally back with some more photos and details for the projects that I posted during the Stampin' Addicts Summer Mini Blog Hop. You can see my original post HERE. Today I'll show some close ups of the Card Set that I made showcasing the Nautical Expedition Designer Series Paper that is found in the new Summer Mini Catalog.

Above shows the outside of the folder that holds the cards and envelopes. The outside measurement is 5 1/4" wide by 6" tall. Below is a close up of the Antique Brad and Early Espresso/White Baker's Twine that I used as a closure. There is a matching brad on the back side of the folder.

When you open the folder, you see this:

Each side holds two cards and two envelopes. It's hard to distinguish the envelopes since I used Crumb Cake envelopes (same color as the folder and the card bases).

To make the folder, I started with an 8 1/2" by 11" sheet of Crumb Cake. I scored at 5 3/8" and 5 5/8". Then along the long side I scored at 2 1/2" (folds up to make the pockets). I hand cut a little slice out in the middle of the two pocket sections to help the folder close easily.

Note: The strip of Designer Series Paper across the top of the pockets adds interest, but also hides the back of the brads that you see on the front. The brads are what keep the pockets in place--I didn't use any other adhesive.

And some pictures of the cards:

The squares were punched out using the new Postage Stamp Punch that can be found on page 10 of the Summer Mini Catalog. Here's a close up of how I tied the squares together using the White Baker's Twine for the card on the left (above).

And the other cards in the set:

Note: I used dimensionals to pop up all of the postage squares of the Nautical Expedition DSP.

Other than tying the postage squares together for the one card, this was a really easy set to put together. I'm planning to choose some various Designer Papers and make up some more coordinating card sets to give as end of the year teacher gifts.

Thanks for coming by! I hope this gave a better look at this project. You should be able to click on any of the pictures for a closer (enlarged) look at the projects.

Stamps: Trendy Trees (for thank you sentiment)

Ink: Early Espresso, Crumb Cake (for distressing of folder edges)

Paper: Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla, Nautical Expedition DSP

Accessories: Antique Brads, White Baker's Twine, Early Espresso/White Baker's Twine, Postage Stamp Punch, Word Window Punch, Modern Label Punch

Stampin' Celebration #50

2011-05-05T10:34:00.001-05:00

The weeks just keep flying by! Another Thursday and another Stampin' Celebration challenge! I loved the bright bold colors from this week's inspiration piece as well as the sharp edges.

A fairly simple card for this week. . . . I started with a sentiment from the stamp set Word Play. Did you know that this is one of the stamp sets on sale for 30% off this month? To see the flyer with all the sets on sale this month as part of the National Scrapbooking Month Promotion click HERE. To see two other cards I've made with this same stamp set, click HERE and HERE.

I punched out the sentiment with the Decorative Label punch and then did a second punch from Real Red card stock. I cut the Real Red punch in half lengthwise and adhered half to mat the top of the sentiment layer and half to mat the bottom.

To add the ribbon, I ran Night of Navy, Daffodil Delight, and Real Red grosgrain ribbon through the Big Shot with the Tasteful Trim die to create custom ric rack. A simple wow technique! Hint: I found it best to use the Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets to back the ribbon, and then run it through the Big Shot. Then you peel away the backing and you have a ribbon sticker ready to adhere directly to your project. How cool is that?

To see some more samples using the decorative edge ribbon technique that I presented last fall at the Fort Worth Regional SU conference, click HERE.

Anyway, lots of explanation for a simple card! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see who the Party Guest designer is this week as well as what the other Design Team members created with this same inspiration piece. Then please play along--we'd love to see what you create!

Stamps: Word Play

Ink: Night of Navy

Paper: Real Red, Night of Navy, Whisper White

Accessories: Tasteful Trim Die, Big Shot, Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets, Night of Navy, Daffodil Delight, and Real Red grosgrain ribbon, Decorative Label punch, dimensionals

Stampin' Addicts Blog Hop: Nautical Expedition DSP

2011-04-29T07:58:00.006-05:00

Welcome to stop #3 on the Stampin' Addicts Summer Mini Blog Hop! This Blog Hop features 22 Stampin' Addicts members who are sharing their creativity with us. Each stop will feature products from the Summer Mini Catalog that goes live May 1, 2011!

If you are following the hop in order, you just came from Holly's blog Rubber Redneck where she showcased gorgeous projects using the stamp Hello Blossoms. I just loved Holly's adorable projects!

Today I am showing some ideas using the Nautical Expedition Designer Series Paper. I love working with Stampin' Up's DSP, and I was especially drawn to this pack of paper since it lends itself easily to both masculine and travel projects.

My first projects is a set of cards. I thought this could make a fun gift for a guy in your life or someone who is leaving for a vacation or moving. I kept the cards pretty simple and let the Designer Series Paper be the star of the show. I also used the new Postage Stamp Punch that is found in the Summer Mini Catalog. I almost didn't pre-order the punch, but now of course I'm so happy I did. :-) Another new product I used is the Baker's Twine. If you follow my blog regularly, you know I use a lot of Linen Thread and Hemp Twine--so of course I knew I would love the Baker's Twine!

The very top right of the above photo shows the folder that holds all of these cards. When the cards are all tucked away inside this is what it looks like:

My next project is a scrapbook in a tin. These tins can be found on the Clearance Rack in the online Stampin' Up Store. For the outside of the tin, I created a belly band with Not Quite Navy card stock, a strip of Designer Series Paper, some Baker's Twine, and an image from the stamp set The Open Sea (also new in the Summer Mini Catalog).

When you open the tin, you pull out a little 'paper accordion' with plenty of room to add pictures and journaling.

I think this would be a fun mini scrapbook for a special vacation or even to give as a Father's Day gift with pictures, love notes, etc. Using the DSP and the coordinating card stock colors made this an easy project that came together quickly. I also added a few more images from The Open Sea stamp set and some more of the Baker's Twine.

Thanks so much for stopping by today! I hope you've been inspired by these projects. I will be back later with more info on these projects and well as a closer look at some of the details. Note: you should be able to click on any of the pictures to see an enlarged image.

Next on the Blog Hop is Carmen over at Stamping Addiction. She will be showcasing the stamp set The Open Sea. Go check out her awesome projects, and then continue on in the Hop to see more projects showcasing products from the Summer Mini catalog.

<----Previous Blog Next Blog---->

Stampin' Celebration #49

2011-04-28T08:30:00.007-05:00

After an Easter break last week, we're back with another Stampin' Celebration challenge! I love the spring colors in this inspiration piece, and isn't the pink and green combo fun? I started with pink and green and then added the darker pink/purple from the bouquet of flowers seen in the bottom left photo.

This week I also drew inspiration from the SUO challenge #17--Mother's Day Cards and Challenge #44--a sketch challenge over at The Paper Players. I did flip the sketch on its side, but otherwise stayed pretty close. :-)

The stamp set I used is actually a sneak peek from the Summer Mini Catalog that goes live May 1st. The set is called Flower Fest, and it immediately caught my eye because almost every image in the set has a coordinating punch. :-)

I randomly stamped the images using Pretty in Pink, Rich Razzleberry and Certainly Celery. For the main flower image, I stamped with Rich Razzleberry craft ink and then heat embossed with Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder. For the the center of the flower, I used a yellow sharpie marker to color one of the Rhinestone Jewels.

And to finish it off, I ran Pretty in Pink satin ribbon through the Big Shot with the Tasteful Trim die to give the ribbon the scallop edge. A simple wow technique! To see some more samples using the decorative edge ribbon technique that I presented last fall at the Fort Worth Regional SU conference, click HERE.

Thanks for stopping by! Make sure to head to Stampin' Celebration to see who the Party Guest designer is this week AND the projects the members of the Design Team have created using this inspiration piece.

Stamps: Flower Fest, Teeny Tiny Wishes

Ink: Pretty in Pink, Certainly Celery, Rich Razzleberry (classic and craft)

Paper: Sahara Sand, Rich Razzleberry, Whisper White

Accessories: Pretty in Pink satin ribbon, Big Shot, Tasteful Trim die, Decorative Label punch, 2 3/8" Scallop Circle punch, Heat Tool, Iridescent Ice Stampin' Emboss Powder, Rhinestone Jewel, Yellow Sharpie, dimensionals

Lots of Love Letters

2011-04-27T10:29:00.000-05:00

Have you tried the Letterpres Plates yet? They made their debut in the Holiday Mini last year, and a few more were introduced in the Occasions Mini Catalog--including the Lots of Love letterpress plate which I used here.

I ran watercolor paper through the Big Shot with the Lots of Love plate. For this card I didn't ink the plate before we ran it through--although you can do that. For an example of what that looks like see THIS post. Unfortunately it's hard to have a photo pick up the texture and detail of the card, but you should be able to click on the picture to get a closer look.

I gathered the 1 1/4" Real Red Striped Grosgrain ribbon and wrapped the prongs of the Antique Brad around to keep it in place. The tag was made using the stamp set Tiny Tags. For this card and sentiment I had a wedding card in mind, but I thought the design could also lend itself to an anniversary, wedding shower, or valentine's card. I punched out the sentiment using the Medium Jewelry Tag punch and layered that on a heart from the Heart to Heart punch.

A couple of hints when using the letterpress plates: Although I didn't use any ink on this card with the letterpress plate, if you do want to add color craft inks do work better than the classic inks. I needed to use a shim with my Big Shot (you may not need to with yours). Also, a thicker paper gives you a crisper image and a deeper impression--Whisper White works ok, but water color paper or textured paper works better.

Thanks for stopping by! Check back tomorrow to see the new Stampin' Celebration challenge!

Stamps: Tiny Tags

Ink: Real Red

Paper: Watercolor Paper (p 170), Real Red, and Naturals White

Accessories: 1 1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, Antique Brads, Heart to Heart Punch, Medium Jewelry Tag Punch, Lots of Love Letterpress plate, Big Shot, Linen Thread, dimensionals

Manly Plane

2011-04-25T09:14:00.000-05:00

Just a reminder that there are only a few days left to order from the Occasions Mini Catalog! This card features one of the stamp sets, Plane & Simple, that can be found in the Occasions Mini Catalog (page 40). The idea for this card came from CAutrey over on Splitcoaststampers. See her card HERE.

The background is Very Vanilla run through the Big Shot with the Square Lattice Textured Embossing Folder and then sponged with Chocolate Chip. The smaller Chocolate Chip layer was scrunched into a ball and then flattened to give a little texture. The 'button' on the banner is actually a brad from the Vintage Trinkets collection. I stamped the plane image with Chocolate Chip and then punched out with the 2 1/2" Circle Punch. I also sponged and distressed the edges of the circle.

And as a final touch, I added a thin layer of Crystal Effects over the plane.

It's always hard to make masculine cards, but I liked the way the way this one turned out. I'm planning to make up a few extra of these to use as Father's Day cards for this year.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Plane & Simple

Ink: Chocolate Chip

Paper: Crumb Cake, Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla

Accessories: Vintage Trinkets, Crystal Effects, Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Big Shot, 2 1/2" Circle Punch, cutter kit, sponge, dimensionals

More Fabric--Towels

2011-04-20T09:14:00.000-05:00

As promised I'm back with another project featuring some of the Stampin' Up fabric. A few months back one of my club hostesses requested a fabric project. I didn't necessarily want to make a project that involved sewing, (not my area of expertise!) so I decided to have everyone make a towel. It was fun because each person got to choose their own fabric and Big Shot die that they used to make a customized towel. Some of the dies that are fun for this project are flowers, circles, or alphabets (for monograms).

For this towel I used the Sweet Stitches Designer Fabric and the Tasteful Trim Big Shot Die. I cut a strip of fabric as long as the towel and then ironed on some of the Fabric Adhesive (found in the Occasions Mini Catalog on page 39). At that point I put the fabric on the die folding it a couple times so that it would come out as a continuous piece of fabric. After running it through the Big Shot, I ironed the fabric onto the towel. Very easy! Of course you can also add some machine stitching or use some of the coordinating Big Designer Buttons to further embellishment if desired. A fun gift idea!

Accessories: Sweet Stitches Designer Fabric, Towel, Fabric Adhesive Roll, Tasteful Trim Die, Big Shot

Vintage Stitches Fabric

2011-04-19T11:38:00.001-05:00

Hi all! As you probably know, last year Stampin' Up introduced fabric into their line of products. Even though I don't really sew myself, I've really enjoyed having this line of products available!

These are some 3X3 cards that I made up as thank yous for customer orders. I had fun using both the Springtime Vintage and the Sweet Stitches Designer Fabric. I like how the fabric gives a soft feel to the card, and it was easy to incorporate since the colors in the fabric coordinate with the other Stampin Up prodcuts--card stock, ink, ribbon, etc.

Here's a closer look at one of the cards:

Hint: After I frayed the edges of the fabric a bit, I used the Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets to adhere the fabric to the card stock. Works great!

To add the 'buttons' to the card, I used the Sweet Buttons Embosslit with my Big Shot. The embosslit has 6 different buttons and can be found on page 36 of the Occasions Mini Catalog. Unfortunately I don't think my pictures really show how cute these little buttons are! I love this little embosslit, because it allows you to add buttons (in any color) without the added weight and dimension of a real button--which is nice if you mail a lot of cards!

And one more closer look:

Thanks for stopping by! Check back soon to see another project using fabric.

Stamps: Thank You Kindly, Sock Monkey (sentiments)

Ink: Always Artichoke, Not Quite Navy, Chocolate Chip

Paper: Always Artichoke, Not Quite Navy, Tangerine Tango, Rose Red, Tempting Turquoise, Chocolate Chip, Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla, Whisper White

Accessories: Springtime Vintage and Sweet Stitches Designer Fabric, Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets, Sweet Buttons Embosslit, Big Shot, dimensionals

Stampin' Celebration #48--Easter

2011-04-14T14:49:00.002-05:00

This week over at Stampin' Celebration we're celebrating Easter! I had fun making this little treat 'basket' inspired by the photos for this week.

I loved the colors in the bouquet of flowers, and I have a new flower punch that I wanted to try out. The punch I used is a sneak peek from the Summer Mini Catalog that goes live May 1st. This Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch is awesome, because in one punch there are three coordinating punches--you just move the front lever to the image you want, and punch. Sounds a little weird, but it is a very cool idea! So the Perfect Plum flower and the Pink Pirouette flower came from the same punch. :-) And there are two other flowers that can be made from the same punch that aren't part of this project.

For the 'basket', I used the Box #2 Big Shot die. I trimmed off the top parts of the box and then ran it through my Big Shot again with the Square Lattice textured embossing folder. I carefully distressed the top edge of the basket a bit and put it together. For the handle I used the Tasteful Trim die and the Square Lattice EF again.

Here's a side view to see the handle and Rhinestones a little better.

Thanks so much for stopping by! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration and see the other projects created using this same inspiration photo. And, this challenge will last for two weeks, so you have plenty of time to join us and create your own project. :-)

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes

Ink: Certainly Celery

Paper: Perfect Plum, Pink Pirouette, Certainly Celery, Whisper White

Accessories: Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch, 5-Petal flower punch, Box #2 die, Tasteful Trim die, Square Lattice textured embossing folder, Big Shot, crimper (for the card stock inside the basket), Rhinestones, dimensionals

Spring is Blossoming!

2011-04-12T13:50:00.000-05:00

During the month of April, Stampin' Up! is giving us a Sneak Peek of two products that will be in the new Idea Book & Catalog coming July 1st! With a $20 purchase, you can order one or both of the Four Frames stamp set and the Paisley Petals designer series paper. To see the promotion flyer click HERE.

It seems like it has been quite awhile since I have done a 'fancy fold' card, so I wanted to make something a little different. This is called a buckle card, and it is really quite simple. The base of the card is 5 1/2" by 6 3/4" and then scored at 4 1/4". The 'buckle' part of the card is 5" by 1 1/2" and scored at 1". You can cut this piece from the 'leftover' card stock of the card base.

I thought the designer paper was even prettier in person than it was looking at it online! The color combinations are gorgeous and easy to work with. For the sentiment part, I stamped in Cherry Cobbler with the Four Frames stamp set and then punched out with the Decorative Label punch. The word 'friend' is from the Fabulous Phrases stamp set.

Have a great day!

Stamps: Four Frames, Fabulous Phrases

Ink: Cherry Cobbler

Paper: Marina Mist, River Rock, Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla, Paisley Petals DSP

Accessories: Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding, Word Window punch, Decorative Label punch, 1 3/8" by 5/8" Oval punch, 1 3/4" by 7/8" Oval punch, dimensionals

Easter Treat

2011-04-11T11:44:00.000-05:00

With Easter just around the corner, I wanted to share a fun treat idea. This is one of the projects we made as part of my Stampers Clubs last month.

This fun little treat is made using the Petal Cone die that can be found on page 15 in the Occasions Mini Catalog. To make the cone as I have here, you run two sheets of card stock through the Big Shot with the die and then fold and adhere together along the sides. The Old Olive scallop half circles and the banner tag are also part of the same die.

The stamp set I used is A Good Egg. This is one of those stamp sets I've had for years and still love pulling out every year around Easter. The chick and egg are colored with markers, and then I used simple masking to add the circles (a stamp in the set) to the egg. To finish off, I added a bag of Jelly Bellies and tied it off with ribbon and the banner tag. Simple and cute. :-)

Here I used the Petal Cone die as an open box, but it can also be a closed box with the four semi-circles at the top turned in, instead of out like I have here.

Stamps: A Good Egg

Ink: Chocolate Chip, So Saffron, Old Olive, and So Saffron, Pumpkin Pie, and Bashful Blue markers

Paper: So Saffron, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip, Whisper White

Accessories: Petal Cone die, Big Shot, 1 3/4" Scallop Circle punch, small cellophane bag, Whisper White Satin Ribbon, Hemp Twine, dimensionals

Stampin' Celebration #47

2011-04-07T07:45:00.002-05:00

It's Thursday and time for another Stampin' Celebration challenge! This week I had fun making a baby card for my take on the inspiration piece. I've had a lot of friends having babies lately, and so my stash of baby cards is dangerously low!

For more inspiration, I also used Sketch Challenge #327 over at Splitcoaststampers and the SU-Only Challenge #16. I think that's the most challenges I've ever incorporated into a single card!

Although I feel like my colors wandered a little bit from the inspiration piece, (and maybe ended up a little dark for a baby card?) I loved the elephants and stripes and went from there. The stamp I used is another one of the single stamps that I earned for free during Sale-A-Bration--Baby Steps. I even love the name of the stamp. :-)

I stamped the image with Basic Gray and then ran my ink pad along the edges of the Whisper White. I gave that a second to dry and then used my Cutter Kit to distress the edges. To create the stripes, I used another single stamp--Solid Stripes. I used my markers to color the stripes and then stamp. I stamped twice--once at the top and once at the bottom. The 'seam' is hiding behind the elephants.

To finish the card I tied around some Baja Breeze Seam Binding and tied in the tag I made using the stamp set Tiny Tags and the Medium Jewelry Tag Punch. I really like the seam binding found in the Occasions Mini Catalog because it is so easy to tie--I need to use it more often!

Thanks so much for stopping by! Head over to Stampin' Celebration to see what the other Design Team members have created this week. You'll also want to see who the Party Guest Designer is for this week. I hope you are inspired to play along with us!

Stamps: Baby Steps, Solid Stripes, Tiny Tags

Ink: Basic Gray ink, Pear Pizzazz, Baja Breeze and Basic Gray markers

Paper: Baja Breeze, Basic Gray, and Whisper White

Accessories: Baja Breeze Seam Binding, Linen Thread, Medium Jewelry Tag Punch, dimenesionals

Stampin' Celebration #46

2011-03-31T12:12:00.000-05:00

I can't believe how quickly the weeks are going by! Another fun inspiration piece over at Stampin' Celebration this week.

Although I don't tend to use bright colors a lot, I really like the bright, happy feel of this inspiration piece. I actually tried to incorporate all 3 colors, but in the end I decided to stay monochromatic (Daffodil Delight). My main inspiration came from one of the boxes found in the bottom left photo--I liked the scallop edges on the box.

I started by using my Scallop Square clear die to run Whisper White card stock through the Big Shot. Then I scored each side between the first and second scallop, trimmed, and folded the box top together. For the base of the box, I started with a 6" by 6" square and scored each side at 1 3/8". Again I trimmed and folded together. Although before adhering the base together, I stamped the flower from the set Simply Said using Versamark ink.

I also stamped the Daffodil Delight square on top of the box. To make the ribbon embellishment (inspired from the top right photo) I used approximately 18" of Daffodil Delight Striped Gosgrain Ribbon. I took a needle and did a running stitch along one side. Then I gathered the ribbon and tied it into a circle.

The button is one of the Sweet Stitches Big Designer Buttons found in the Occasions Mini Catalog. I used some Hemp Twine in the middle of the button and to attach the tag. I stamped the tag using the set Tiny Tags and punched out with the Medium Jewelry Tag punch.

Thanks for stopping by! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see what the Design Team has come up with this week. You can also see who the Party Guest designer is this week! Then I hope you are inspired to play along. :-)

Stamp: Tiny Tags, Simply Said

Ink: Versamark, Daffodil Delight

Paper: Daffodil Delight, Whisper White

Accessories: Daffodil Delight Striped Gosgrain Ribbon, Medium Jewelry Tag punch, Hemp Twine, needle and thread

Stampin' Celebration #45

2011-03-24T11:28:00.001-05:00

It's Thursday and there's another fantastic inspiration piece over at Stampin' Celebration! I love neutral colors, so this was a really fun week for me. I also loved the bold and graphic look of the bottom photo.

For my card, I used one of the Sale-A-Bration sets Sweet Summer. Usually I wouldn't think to use this color palate with with this set, but I like the way it turned out. I used the colors Crumb Cake, Chocolate Chip, and Basic Black. I started by stamping the flowers in those colors on Naturals White card stock and then used my blender pens to color in the flowers.

The sentiment is from the set Trendy Trees. I tied some Hemp Twine around the Basic Black layer and popped it up on dimensionals.

For the layout, I used the Clean & Simple sketch challenge over at The Paper Players. I just happened to stumble across their blog, and I'm sure I'll be back again. :-)

Just a reminder that there is only ONE week left of Sale-A-Bration! If you haven't taken advantage of this great opportunity yet, make sure you do quickly!

Thanks for stopping by today! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see what the other members of the Design Team have been up to. And you can see who our Party Guest designer is this week.

Stamps: Sweet Summer, Trendy Trees

Ink: Basic Black, Chocolate Chip, Crumb Cake

Paper: Crumb Cake, Basic Black, Naturals White

Accessories: Hemp Twine, blender pens, dimensionals

Stampin' Celebration #44

2011-03-17T07:15:00.002-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day! I hope you are wearing some green. :-) Look at this pretty Stampin' Celebration inspiration piece! There were a few different ideas that I had initially, but I finally went with the top right photo as my inspiration. For some reason, it reminded me of the single stamp--Elizabeth. It's a stamp I earned for free during Sale-A-Bration this year, but I hadn't used it yet.

I inked up the Elizabeth stamp with Chocolate Chip craft ink and stamped on Naturals White card stock. Then I heat embossed the image with Clear Stampin' Emboss Powder. Next I used my blender pen to color the image with Old Olive and Blushing Bride ink. I also wanted to incorporate a little gold (like in the inspiration photo) so I took a tooth pick and added some highlights with a little Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint.

Here's a close up. If you look very closely, you may see a hint of the Shimmer Paint--it's fairly subtle even in real life.

I also had to use my new-to-me Eyelet Border Punch (yes it really has taken me this long to purchase it!) After I punched the Naturals White card stock, I sponged the edges with Chocolate Chip ink and folded it back and forth to give a little bit more of a lace effect. I also sponged and distressed the right edge of the Naturals White layer, and tucked a small strip of Blushing Bride card stock under.

Thanks so much for visiting today! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to take a peek. You can see who the Party Guest designer is this week, as well as the new inspiration piece and Design Team samples. And please make sure to play along! We love seeing what you create!

Stamps: Elizabeth, Teeny Tiny Wishes

Ink: Chocolate Chip craft ink, Old Olive, Blushing Bride

Paper: Chocolate Chip, Blushing Bride, Naturals White

Accessories: Blender Pen, Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint, Old Olive Satin Ribbon, Heat Tool, Clear Stampin' Emboss Powder, Embossing Buddy, Eyelet Border punch, sponge, cutter kit, dimensionals

Scallop Circle Basket

2011-03-16T08:15:00.006-05:00

As promised I'm back to share another Scallop Circle Basket! If you missed the first one, you can see it HERE. I really like the way that this one turned out. I could see this being used as anything from a wedding favor, bridal shower favor, Valentine's gift, or just a gift to say thank you to a special friend.

I used the Scallop Circle Die and my Big Shot to cut the two Blushing Bride scallop circles. Next I ran each scallop circle through the Big Shot again with the Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder to give the texture. After that I carefully scored and folded the circles and adhered them together. The handle is kept in place with Very Vanilla 5/16" Jumbo Brads.

For the tag, I stamped the sentiment with Early Espresso ink, and punched it out with the 1 3/4" by 7/8" oval punch. I layered that onto a Blushing Bride Scallop Oval Punch and an Early Espresso Decorative Label Punch (found in the Occasions Mini Catalog on page 30). The accent is one of the new Vintage Flower Adornments (page 15 of the Occasions Mini Catalog) and a little piece of Victoria Crochet Trim ribbon--all held together with glue dots.

Thanks for stopping by! Hope you enjoyed. Tomorrow I'll be back with a project for this week's Stampin' Celebration challenge.

Ink: Early Espresso

Paper: Blushing Bride, Early Espresso, Very Vanilla

Accessories: Vintage Flower Adornment, Victoria Crochet Trim ribbon, 1 3/4" by 7/8" Oval Punch, Scallop Oval Punch, Decorative Label Punch, Hemp Twine, 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo Brads, Big Shot, Scallop Circle Die, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder

Birthday Scallop Circle Basket

2011-03-15T09:12:00.001-05:00

There are only about 2 weeks left of Sale-A-Bration! Don't miss this opportunity to earn free product with each $50 purchase. It's a great time to purchase items from your wish list and to stock up on essentials that you need all year long. This project today features some of the products that are available for free during Sale-A-Bration--and only during SAB.

I have seen this idea around to make a scallop basket, but unfortunately I didn't keep track of where I saw the idea. But it's a cute, simple way to make a little treat/gift pouch. Just take two scallop circles (I used my Big Shot and Scallop Circle Die), score and fold down the middle, and adhere them together! How simple is that?

Here I used Peach Parfait and the Designer Series Paper from the Ice Cream Parlor Paper and Quick Accents pack--found on page 7 of the Sale-A-Bration catalog. The tag was made using the Punch Bunch stamp set--also available for free during SAB.

I stamped the birthday tag image twice, once with Peach Parfait, and once with Tempting Turquoise. I hand cut the Peach Parfait square, and used a 3/4" circle punch to punch out just the 'HB' from the Tempting Turquoise image. The handle is held in place by Tempting Turquoise Glimmer Brads.

Thanks for stopping by! Check back tomorrow for another (more feminine) version of this same scallop circle basket.

Stamps: Punch Punch

Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Peach Parfait

Paper: Peach Parfait, Tempting Turquoise, Whisper White, Ice Cream Parlor DSP

Accessories: Brights Glimmer Brads, Hemp Twine, Scallop Square Punch, 3/4" Circle Punch, Big Shot, Scallop Circle Die, dimensionals

Stampin' Celebration #43

2011-03-10T10:24:00.000-06:00

We're celebrating St. Patty's day again over at Stampin' Celebration! What a yummy looking inspiration piece. :-) Now I don't have any St. Patrick's Day stamps, but I do have the little shamrock that is part of the Sale-A-Bration set So Happy For You. So, here's what I did:

Unfortunately I couldn't get this card to photograph particularly well, but you get the idea. :-) It's been awhile since I've done a one-layer card, but I really like the simplicity of them. I started by scoring across the card twice (at 2" and 3" from the bottom of the card front) and then stamped the shamrocks between the score lines with Certainly Celery and Old Olive ink.

The sentiment is also stamped with Old Olive, and I added the 1/8" Old Olive taffeta ribbon. I added some Smooch Accent Ink on top of the shamrocks. In real life it makes them sparkly, in the photo it makes them look splotchy. :-)

Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see what the other Design Team members have been up to this week. You'll also want to see who our Guest Designer is for this week. Then make sure to play along with us!

Stamps: So Happy for You

Ink: Certainly Celery, Old Olive

Paper: Whisper White

Accessories: 1/8" Old Olive Taffeta Ribbon, Smooch Accent Ink

Stampin' Celebration #42

2011-03-04T16:15:00.001-06:00

Look at this fun challenge over at Stampin' Celebration! This week we're getting ready for St. Patrick's Day. I don't have anything to share with you this week, but make sure to take a minute and go check out what the other members of the Design Team created with this inspiration piece--there are some fun cards.

And then it's your turn! Create something inspired by these pictures and link it to the Stampin' Celebration website. Our 'Pick of the Party' will have the opportunity to be a guest designer!

One Layout, Two Cards

2011-03-01T14:15:00.000-06:00

Hi all! Today I have two cards to show you that both have the same layout. Sometimes when I find a particular layout, color scheme, etc that I like, I use it for several projects. It is actually amazing how the same layout can give you two completely different cards just by changing up the colors and stamps.

The card above uses the Sale-A-Bration set Punch Bunch. I just love that little owl. :-) I stamped him with Early Espresso and then punched him out with the Two-Step Owl punch. I stamped the owl a second time with Early Espresso ink on Crumb Cake card stock and then cut out just the tummy part which I adhered on top of the Whisper White owl.

The branch is from the Two-Step Bird punch, and the moon is the 2 1/2" Circle Punch. The Designer Paper is another item that you can earn for free during Sale-A-Bration--the Ice Parlor Quick Accents pack. In the pack you receive 9 sheets of Designer Paper and 2 sheets of self-adhesive die-cuts.

The button comes from the Bitty Buttons Pack. I wrapped the Linen Thread around the Designer Paper and adhered with Snail. Separately I tied a piece of linen thread through the button and then adhered that to the card with a glue dot.

Stamps: Punch Bunch, Pocket Silhouettes

Ink: Early Espresso

Paper: Crumb Cake, So Saffron, Old Olive, Whisper White, Ice Cream Parlor DSP

Accessories: Two-Step Owl punch, Two-Step Bird punch, 2 1/2" Circle punch, cutter kit, linen thread, itty bitty buttons, dimensionals

So you'll notice that this card has the exact same layout! The idea for the card--and this fabulous layout--came from Julie Davison. You can see her valentine card HERE. You'll notice I didn't change much other than using Crumb Cake instead of Pretty in Pink.

This card uses the stamp set Filled with Love. The Designer Paper is from the Brights Patterns Designer Series Paper Pack. I also used the Itty Bitty Buttons on this card too. I know I should have posted this card before Valentine's Day, but I never did. :-) I actually think it could make for a cute anniversary card too.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Filled with Love

Ink: Real Red, Early Espresso

Paper: Crumb Cake, Early Espresso, Whisper White, Brights Patterns DSP pack

Accessories: Full Heart punch, Small Heart punch, 2 1/2" Circle punch, cutter kit, linen thread, itty bitty buttons, dimensinoals

Stampin' Celebration #41

2011-02-24T08:42:00.002-06:00

It's Thursday and time for another Stampin' Celebration Challenge! I loved the color scheme, and I also used the flowers as inspiration this week.

I started by using my Framed Tulips Textured Impression Embossing Folder on the Whisper White layer. Such a pretty embossing folder! Next I added the flowers using a combination of my Baskets & Blooms Big Shot die, Fancy Flower punch, Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack, and 5-Petal Flower punch (for the leaves).

I added some clear Rhinestone Brads to the center of each flower, and popped them up on dimensionals. For the tag (from the Table Setting Big Shot die), I used my Garden Green and Rose Red markers to color directly on the stamp. The sentiment is from the stamp set Word Play. I took the edge of my Rose Red marker and ran it along the edge of the tag to add a little definition. (You could do the same thing with the edge of a stamp pad.)

Even though this card used a lot of different accessories, it was really quite simple and came together quickly. The colors and sentiment could easily be changed to fit a variety of occasions.

Thanks so much for stopping by! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see what the other members of the Design Team have been working on. And make sure to check out our very first Guest Designer and her project too! Then make sure to play along with us this week for a chance to be not only Pick of the Party, but a guest designer as well!

Stamps: Word Play

Ink: Rose Red and Garden Green markers

Paper: Garden Green, Rose Red, Regal Rose, Whisper White

Accessories: Baskets & Blooms die, Table Setting die, Framed Tulips Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Fancy Flower punch, Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack, 5-Petal Flower punch, Clear Rhinestone Brads, Hemp Twine, dimensionals

Blissful Butterfly

2011-02-22T16:44:00.000-06:00

This card features one of the stamp sets--Bliss--that you can earn for free during Sale-A-Bration. If you haven't already taken advantage of Sale-A-Bration, there's still time! With each $50 purchase you can choose a stamp set or product from the Sale-A-Bration catalog for free!

The card base is Sahara Sand and I repeatedly stamped the scroll work image from the Bliss stamp set with Versamark ink. For the butterflies, I used my Beautiful Butterflies Big Shot die. The larger butterfly is stamped with the flower image from the Bliss set with Blushing Bride ink.

To make the smaller butterfly, I took a small rectangle of Multipurpose Adhesive Sheet (p 39 of the Occasions Mini Catalog) and peeled off one side of the backing and adhered it to Blushing Bride card stock. At that point I ran everything together through the Big Shot with the Beautiful Butterflies Die. Then I peeled off the remaining Multipurpose Adhesive sheet backing and poured Dazzling Diamonds Glitter over the top. That gives the awesome sparkle. :-) In the center of the Butterfly is one of the new Vanilla Rosettes that are also found in the Occasions Mini Catalog on page 16.

When I add the butterflies to the card, I used half pieces of dimensionals--one on each wing:

This card also features another item from the Occasions Mini Catalog--the new Framed Tulips Textured Impressions Folder. Instead of using the whole folder to create a card base, I just used one edge. And since there wasn't an edge quite long enough to go completely across a 5 1/2" card, I just pieced it together--hiding the seam under the butterfly wing.

For the Very Vanilla Satin ribbon, I used a strip of Sticky Strip placed onto the Blushing Bride layer, and then 'scrunched' the ribbon as I pushed it into the Sticky Strip. Hint: If your ribbon seems like it won't say put, you can use your heat tool to warm up the Sticky Strip a little (even after you've added the ribbon). Heating the Sticky Strip a little makes it super sticky.

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you've enjoyed this card.

Stamps: Bliss, Fabulous Phrases

Ink: Versamark, Blushing Bride, Soft Suede

Paper: Sahara Sand, Blushing Bride, Very Vanilla

Accessories: Framed Tulips Textured Impressions Folder, Beautiful Butterflies Die, Big Shot, Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Vanilla Rosette, Very Vanilla Satin ribbon, Sticky Strip, dimensionals

Stampin' Celebration #40

2011-02-17T11:16:00.000-06:00

I just love seeing all of the inspiration pieces week after week! Now I don't usually love yellow, but the warm sunny feel of these pictures is great! This week I took the inspiration piece quite literally:

I loved the picture of the wedding cake, so I went to work recreating it with paper. I pulled out my well-loved Baroque Motifs stamp set, and some of the new Daffodil Delight Pompom Trim from the Occasions Mini Catalog. After I stamped with Daffodil Delight and stacked the cake, I added a few flowers with my punch from the Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack. And of course some Rhinestone pearls provide a great finishing touch and some bling.

The sentiment is from the set Teeny Tiny Wishes and was stamped with Versamark and heat embossed with White Stampin' Powder on Vellum card stock. (Hint: If you are heat embossing, I would suggest using the Vellum card stock as opposed to the Vellum Paper as it holds up better under the heat.)

Thanks for stopping by! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see what the other Design Team Members have created this week! And, note that there has been a change to the "Pick of the Party"--there will only be one per week, but the winner will be invited to be a guest designer for the following week's challenge! So link your submissions for a chance to be a guest designer! You can read more details on the Stampin' Celebration blog.

Stamps: Baroque Motifs, Teeny Tiny Wishes

Ink: Daffodil Delight, Versmark

Paper: Daffodil Delight, Whisper White, Vellum Card Stock

Accessories: Daffodil Delight Pompom Trim, Itty Bitty Punch Pack, Rhinestone Pearls, Corner Rounder Punch, Embossing Buddy, White Stampin' Emboss Powder, Heat Tool

Erik's Valentine

2011-02-15T13:35:00.000-06:00

I hope you all had a nice Valentine's Day! I thought I would quickly share my son's valentines from this year. If you missed my daughter's, you can see that HERE.

I made my daughter's valentine's first, and then asked my son what he wanted. I had pulled out some stamp sets that I thought were good candidates. . . pirates, dinosaurs, robots, etc. No, he wanted "exactly the same as Elizabeth's--only red instead of pink." Really? Hmm. And I was worried that as a big kindergartner Erik may not even want to take handmade valentine's at all! So Erik and I went to work together to come up with his Valentine. He helped me design it, and his only comment was that it needed some glitter, but Dad convinced him that boys don't need glitter. :-) Anyway, we had fun working together and Erik made sure I kept on task.

The base of the Valentine is Crumb Cake, and the hearts are Chocolate Chip and Real Red Designer Paper from the Brights Patterns Designer Paper Stack. I distressed the edges of the Real Red Heart using my Cutter Kit and the edges of the Crumb Cake with Crumb Cake ink. The Chocolate Chip heart is up on dimensionals.

And an inside view of the matchbook-style Valentine:

Stamps: Sock Monkey ("just for you"), and unknown stamp set

Ink: Real Red, Chocolate Chip, Crumb Cake (distressing)

Paper: Crumb Cake, Chocolate Chip, Whisper White, Real Red DSP from the Brights Paper Stack

Accessories: Full Heart Punch, Heart to Heart Punch, Cutter Kit, dimensionals, stapler, candy

Stampin' Celebration #39

2011-02-10T13:38:00.000-06:00

It's a good thing I have the Stampin' Celebration challenge to keep my blog going. :-) Another great inspiration piece this week! Pink, brown, and Valentine's Day!

This week I used the inspiration piece to create some little valentines that my 3 year old daughter could take to her preschool class. She was excited about the pink, and her only other request was 'sparkles'. I also pulled some inspiration from a one-layer swap card that I received from my sweet friend Donna a few years ago at Leadership.

I used the stamp set I {Heart} Hearts. I stamped the dotted heart with Early Espresso, and the smaller heart with Pretty in Pink (the specific color isn't actually important). After I stamped the little heart, I used my Tombow Multipurpose Liquid Glue and went over the little heart. Then I poured Pink Stampin' Glitter (from the Fine Supernova collection) over the top. The Liquid Glue held the glitter really well and dried quickly.

The sentiment is from the set Teeny Tiny Wishes and stamped with Versamark and heat embossed with White Stampin' Emboss Powder.

These are really very simple to make little matchbook treat holder. I used a piece of 8 1/2" by 3" piece of Soft Suede--getting 3 per sheet of 8 1/2" by 11". I scored one end at 3/4", then flipped it around and scored from the other end at 4 3/4". Of course depending on the type of treat you put inside, you may need to alter those measurements. The staple also helps hold the treat in place.

Thanks so much for stopping by! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see the other designs for the this week. Then make sure to play along as we celebrate life's special moments!

Stamps: I {Heart} Hearts, Teeny Tiny Wishes

Ink: Early Espresso, Pretty in Pink, Soft Suede and Pretty in Pink markers, Versamark

Paper: Soft Suede, Whisper White

Accessories: Pretty in Pink taffeta ribbon, Fine Supernova Stampin' Glitter, Heat Tool, White Stampin' Emboss Powder, stapler, candy

Stampin' Celebration #38

2011-02-03T13:05:00.004-06:00

It's Thursday and another fantastic challenge over at Stampin' Celebration! I love the bold colors of this inspiration piece as well as the texture of the corner pictures. So here's what I have to share this week:

I usually have a really hard time coming up with cards for my husband. But, I think this one may work ok. I tried to keep it fairly simple, and I thought the distressed look on the hearts may be a little 'manly'. For the hearts I punched them out using my Full Heart punch, crumpled and then opened them, and put them on top of my Basic Black ink pad. I carefully walked my fingers over the hearts so that they would pick up a little of the ink. It's a fun, simple technique that you should try if you haven't already!

I tied around the Basic Black grosgrain ribbon and added the three hearts using dimensionals. The sentiment is stamped on the inside and then I used my 1 3/8" by 5/8" Oval Punch on the front layer so that the sentiment shows through. The sentiment is from the set Three Little Words, which is a set that you can earn for free during Sale-A-Bration!

Thanks for vising today! Head over to Stampin' Celebration to see what the other member of the Design Team have created using this same inspiration piece! Then hopefully you will feel inspired to play along. :-) We'd love to see what you create!

Stamps: Three Little Words

Ink: Real Red, Basic Black

Paper: Real Red, Whisper White

Accessories: Full Heart Punch, 1 3/8" by 5/8" Oval Punch, Basic Black Grosgrain Ribbon, dimensionals

Stampin' Celebration #37

2011-01-27T09:51:00.003-06:00

I can't believe it's already Thursday again! Thanks to everyone who played along with the Stampin' Celebration challenge last week. We had so many fantastic entries that there were 4 Picks of the Party--we just couldn't narrow it down to 3. :-) If you haven't seen them already, go take a peek--you'll be glad you did.

Once again I love the inspiration piece this week. I took the cupcake and scallop circle theme from the bottom left photo. I used my new (from the Occasions Mini Catalog) Create a Cupcake stamp set and Build a Cupcake punch for this card. To add the dots to the Cherry Cobbler layer, I repeatedly stamped the 'sprinkles' image with Versamark ink.

To add the Dazzling Diamonds glitter to the frosting, I used the Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets found in the Occasions Mini Catalog. I peeled one side off of the adhesive sheet (1" by 1 1/2" piece), stuck it to the Whisper White paper, and then punched. Next I peeled off the other side of the adhesive and poured glitter over the top. A simple way to add sparkle to your project. :-)

The cupcake also shows off some of the cute new Daffodil Delight Pompom Trim found on page 35 of the Mini Catalog.

Thanks for stopping by! Make sure to head over to the Stampin' Celebration blog to check out the other projects from the Design Team! And then make sure to play along. We'd love to see what you create!

Stamps: Create a Cupckake

Ink: Early Espresso, Versamark

Paper: Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso, Whisper White

Accessories: Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets, Build a Cupcake punch, 2 3/8" Scallop Circle punch, 1 3/4" Circle punch, Daffodil Delight Pompom Trim, dimensionals

Stampin' Celebration #36

2011-01-20T06:37:00.000-06:00

Thanks to everyone who participated in our special Stampin' Celebration challenge last week! We loved seeing all of the amazing creations, and congratulations to the winners who will receive some fun blog candy. :-)

This week I just love the inspiration piece--of course pink and brown have always been a favorite combination of mine. I think each picture could easily be an inspiration piece on its own.

I pulled out my Eastern Blooms set which I really like even though I haven't used it in awhile. I used Pink Pirouette and Chocolate Chip markers to color directly on the stamp, huffed on the stamp, and then stamped on Naturals White card stock. I stamped the sentiment with Chocolate Chip ink. By the way, the sentiment comes from the set Thank You Kindly which is a set that you can earn for free during Sale-A-Bration--which starts on Jan 25th!

I distressed the edges of the Naturals White and Pink Pirouette layers using my Cutter Kit, and then added a little bit of Hemp Twine on the Pink Pirouette layer.

To give a little more dimension to the flowers, I added a drop of Crystal Effects to the center of each flower. Then I added Dazzling Diamonds. After that dried, I finished adding Crystal Effects to petals of the flowers.

Thanks so much for stopping by today! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see the Pick of the Party from last week and what the other members of the Design Team have created for this week! We'd love to have you play along too!

Stamps: Eastern Blooms, Thank You Kindly

Ink: Chocolate Chip, Pink Pirouette and Chocolate Chip markers

Paper: Crumb Cake, Pink Pirouette, Chocolate Chip, Naturals White

Accessories: Hemp Twine, Cutter Kit, dimensionals, Crystal Effects, Dazzling Diamonds

Tying Up Loose Ends

2011-01-14T11:45:00.002-06:00

Today I just have a few loose ends that I need to take care of:

When I posted THIS project, I had several requests for my Toffee Recipe. So here you go! By the way, this isn't really MY recipe, my mother-in-law taught me how to make this family-favorite, yummy toffee. And I do have to say it is easy. I can with all confidence say that if I can make it, so can you. :-)

Almond Crunch

1/2 Cup Butter

1/2 Cup Margarine

1 Cup Sugar

1/4 Cup water

1/2 Cup Sliced Almonds

1 Large Hershey's Bar

Melt butter, margarine, sugar, and water together. Add almonds and boil on high heat until it is toffee colored and shoots up puffs of smoke. Pour onto a greased cookie sheet. Break Hershey's bar into pieces and put on the candy while still hot. Spread the chocolate after it starts to melt. Cool until hardened. Break into pieces. Yum!

Another tip my mother-in-law taught me was to watch the toffee as you stir it. When it is almost done, you'll notice that as you stir it you see the bottom of the pan because it is starting to stick together a little more.

AND, I never did post the link for the tutorial to make the square embossed border on this card from the Stampin' Addicts Occasions Mini Blog Hop. To see my other projects from the hop, click HERE.

I found a fantastic tutorial with all sort of tip and hints over at Sharon's blog Created By You. To see her tutorial click HERE.

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great weekend!

Stampin' Celebration #35

2011-01-13T09:19:00.000-06:00

What an exciting week over at Stampin' Celebration! With a new blog design, blog candy, and TWO new members on the Design Team, there's a lot to celebrate! A warm welcome to Marlene Peters over at Hands On and Cori Kozak over at My Creative Chat. Both are very talented stampers, so go check out their blogs! I'm excited for the opportunity to work with them on the design team!

Now back to the challenge this week. . . . I liked the bright colors, and it reminded me of a summer birthday party, and for some reason ice cream. :-) I used the cupcake 'frosting' shape from my new Build a Cupcake punch (from the Occasions Mini Catalog) to create the ice cream scoops. The cherry also comes from the same punch. The So Saffron and Chocolate Chip layers are from the Play Date Designer Series Paper pack. I took my Smooch Illuminate Pearlized Top Coat and added a little bit of glitter around the edges of the ice cream scoops and on the cherry.

I hand-cut the triangle for the cone, and then ran it through the Big Shot with the Square Lattice Embossing Folder. I used my Cutter Kit to add distressing to the edges of the Wild Wasabi layer, and then tied around the Linen Thread. The sentiment is from the set Crazy for Cupcakes.

Thanks so much for stopping by! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see the projects the other Design Team members have created. And then play along with us--you'll definitely want to this week as there is awesome Blog Candy for those who are chosen as this week's "Pick of the Party"--formerly known as the Top 3. :-) Have a great week!

Stamps: Crazy for Cupcakes

Ink: Wild Wasabi and Chocolate Chip (for sponging on cone)

Paper: Baja Breeze, Wild Wasabi, Melon Mambo, and Play Date DSP

Accessories: Build a Cupcake punch, Smooch Illuminate Pearlized Top Coat, Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Linen Thread, Cutter Kit, dimensionals

Stampin' Addicts Blog Hop: Thanks for Caring

2010-12-31T08:34:00.008-06:00

Welcome to stop #5 on the Stampin' Addicts Occasions Mini Blog Hop! This Blog Hop features 25 Stampin' Addicts members who are sharing their creativity with us. Each stop will feature products from the Occasions Mini Catalog that goes live January 5, 2011!

If you are following the hop in order, you just came from Cheryl's blog Love to Stamp & Scrap where she showcased gorgeous projects using the set Build a Blossom and the coordinating Blossoms Petal Punch. I just loved Cheryl's projects!

Today I am showing some ideas using the stamp set Thanks for Caring. This set first caught my eye as a Sympathy set, although as I worked with it I found it is very versatile.

The first project is a standard sized card and uses the flower image from the set. I colored the stamp with markers, stamped, and then colored in the flowers using my Pastels and a Blender Pen. I also added a layer of Smooch Top Coat Accent Ink over the top to give sparkle.

Over the image is one of the new (largest size) Beveled Window panes. It is held in place with Rose Red Seam Binding and Hemp Twine. The row of stamped images under the ribbon comes from the very top scroll work of the sympathy stamp. I used a Crumb Cake marker to repeatedly stamp just that part of the image.

The next project is a 3x3" card. To make the 'frame' I used the new Framed Tulips Textured Impressions Embossing Folder. I'll provide a link later to a tutorial. I stamped the butterfly image with Basic Black ink and again colored with Pastels and a Blender Pen. The butterfly has a layer of Smooch Top Coat Accent Ink over the top to give sparkle.

And the last project is a basket using the Big Shot and the Baskets & Blooms die. I sponged the edges, weaved the Crumb Cake paper, and then ran it through the Big Shot. The tag comes from that same die, and I ran the edge through the Framed Tulips Embossing Folder. I colored the sentiment with markers and punched out with the 1 3/4" x 7/8" Oval Punch.

Thanks so much for stopping by today! I hope you've been inspired by these projects.

Next on the Blog Hop is Rhonda over at The Stampin' Bunny. She will be showcasing the stamp set Baby Blossoms and the Springtime Vintage Designer Series Paper. Go check out her gorgeous creations, and then continue on in the Hop to see more projects showcasing items sets from the Occasions Mini catalog.

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Stampin' Celebration #33

2010-12-30T09:36:00.000-06:00

I just love all the party/table setting pictures from Stampin' Celebration--makes me want to throw a fancy party. :-) Anyway this week I thought of a New Year's party. And what would a New Year's party be without a fun party hat?

I used my Big Shot and the Pennant Die to make this hat. You can see another example in the last picture of THIS post. I adhered two Basic Black pennants together at the edges, and then added the Real Red edges. Everything is sprayed with Smooch Spritz to give some sparkle.

And here's a close up of the top of the hat. For the topper, I used 8 scalloped circles (already scored) that are also part of the Pennant Die. The tag shows a little sneak peek of the very shinny Red Glimmer Paper that will be in the upcoming Mini Catalog. I used my Billboard Alphabet die for the 0 and 1s of 2011, and I hand cut the 2--so don't look too close. :-)

Thanks so much for stopping by! Take a peek over at Stampin Celebration to see all of the other cool projects this week. And then play along, we'd love to see what you create!

Paper: Red Glimmer Paper, Real Red, Basic Black, Whisper White

Accessories: Big Shot, Pennant Die, Billboard Alphabet Die, Oval Punch, Scallop Oval Punch, Linen Thread

Stampin' Celebration #32

2010-12-16T12:45:00.000-06:00

It's Thursday and time for another Stampin' Celebration challenge! This week we are celebrating a traditional Christmas--red, white, stockings, candy canes, and goodies. :-)

This tag is one that we made at my tag event earlier this month, and I thought it perfectly fit this challenge. I've also been making toffee to give to neighbors and my husband's coworkers. . . . So I put the two together for a fun treat. :-)

I used a medium cello bag for the toffee. For the tag I ran Real Red card stock through the Big Shot with the Two Tags die. The image and sentiment are from the set Got Treats. I stamped with Chocolate Chip, and used my Real Red marker to color in the buttons on the gingerbread man. The Chocolate Chip scallop circle is up on dimensionals.

Thanks for stopping by! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see the projects from the other members of the Design Team. And then play along with us! This time you have two weeks to play since we will be taking a week off to spend time with family and friends.

Stamps: Got Treats

Ink: Chocolate Chip and Real Red markers

Paper: Real Red, Chocolate Chip, and Whisper White

Accessories: Medium Cello Bag, Big Shot, Two Tags die, Whisper White grosgrain ribbon, hemp twine, 1 3/4" Scallop Circle punch, 1 3/8" Circle punch, dimensionals

Stampin' Celebration #31

2010-12-09T13:13:00.000-06:00

Another fun, non-traditional holiday look for the Challenge over at Stampin' Celebration this week! Isn't is pretty? I loved all of the sparkle, and those cookies in the bottom left picture look yummy. :-)

So you can see that I took my inspiration from the snowflake cookie, the sparkle, and the colors. To make the snowflake, I took a scrap of Whisper White card stock and used the Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets to add adhesive to one side. Then I ran it through the Big Shot with the Northern Frost decorative strip die. Next I peeled off the other side of the Multipurpose Adhesive sheet backing and poured Dazzling Diamonds glitter over the top. Now I have a sparkly snowflake--which only shows up a tiny bit in the picture.

I also used the Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets to add glitter to the edges of the Blushing Bride panel. I stamped the sentiment (I can't remember which set it is from!) and added the faux ribbon knot with Blushing Bride stitched-poly ribbon. The snowflake and the Blushing Bride panel are up on dimensionals.

Thanks so much for stopping by! Make sure to stop by Stampin' Celebration to see the other projects for this week. And then take some time to play along--we'd love to see what you create, and you may be chosen as one of the Top 3 Picks.

Stamps: unknown discontinued set

Ink: Blushing Bride

Paper: Blushing Bride, Whisper White

Accessories: Multipurpose Adhesive Sheet, Dazzling Diamonds, Blushing Bride Poly-Stitched Ribbon, Rhinestone, Northern Frost decorative strip dies, Big Shot, dimensionals

Peaceful Flurries

2010-12-06T16:15:00.000-06:00

Here's a simple holiday card. . . . This was a card we made at my Holiday Stamp a Stack, and I'm making up a few more to send out this year too.

I ran Shimmery White card stock through the Big Shot with the new Northern Flurry Embossing Folder (in the Holiday Mini Catalog). I mounted that on a Marina Mist base and added a few of the Rhinestones to the center of the snowflakes. For the sentiment I stamped with Marina Mist on Shimmery White (stamp set is All Holidays) and then punched it out with the Decorative Label punch. I punched a second Decorative Label piece from Marina Mist card stock, and then cut the piece in half lengthwise. I adhered the pieces to the back of the white piece so that the Marina Mist shows a bit on the top and bottom to give a nice framed edge.

I hope that all of your holiday preparations are going well! This week I'm working on my Christmas cards. :-)

Stamps: All Holidays

Ink: Marina Mist

Paper: Shimmery White, Marina Mist

Accessories: Rhinestones, Decorative Label punch, Marina Mist grosgrain ribbon, dimensionals

Stampin' Celebration #30

2010-12-02T13:11:00.000-06:00

Isn't this a pretty inspiration piece this week at Stampin' Celebration? I'd love to attend a dinner party that looked like this. :-) For the challenge this week, I made some little magnets.

As I've been decorating for Christmas and putting everything out, I had the memory of my Mom always having cute little magnets on the fridge for different holidays throughout the year. I especially loved the Christmas magnets. When we go to my parents' house this year, I'll have to check and see if she still puts them up. :-) Anyway, so it was from this memory that came the idea to make these little magnets.

I started with a 2" by 2" piece of Magnet Sheet (p 205 of the catalog), peeled off the backing (that side not shown in the picture) and adhered the Perfect Plum card stock. Then I peeled off one side of the backing of the Multipurpose Adhesive Sheet (p 17 of the Holiday Mini Catalog) and stuck it to the the card stock.

At that point I ran everything together through the Big Shot with the Scallop Squares Duo die to get the little scallop square. The I peeled off the remaining Multipurpose Adhesive sheet backing and poured Dazzling Diamonds Glitter over the top. That gives the awesome sparkle. :-)

The snowflakes came from the Northern Frost Decorative Strip (also in the Mini Catalog) and Whisper White card stock run through the Big Shot. The last thing I added were a few Rhinestones for a little more bling.

These were a simple project to make. . . . so simple that I think I may make some more with my children--letting them customize a bit. Maybe we'll even make some for Grandma to add to her collection. ;-) These would also make great gifts or stocking stuffers.

Thanks so much for stopping by! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see what the other members of the Design Team are up to this week!

Paper: Perfect Plum, Almost Amethyst DSP (discontinued), Whisper White

Accessories: Magnet Sheet, Multipurpose Adhesive Sheet, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Scallop Squares Duo Die, Northern Frost Decorative Strip, Big Shot, Rhinestones

Stampin Celebration #29

2010-11-19T09:27:00.000-06:00

This week at Stampin' Celebration we're getting ready for Thanksgiving! Another great inspiration piece too! I wanted to make up some little Thanksgiving treats (teacher gifts, etc) so I used this as my starting point.

I pulled out my Candy Wrapper Die and some More Mustard card stock. After I assembled the candy wrapper I added ribbon (remember to add your candy first!) and a strip (1 3/4" by 6") of Autumn Spice Specialty Designer Series Paper. The sentiment is from Teeny Tiny Wishes. I stamped and then punched out with the Word Window punch and layered it onto the Early Espresso that was punched with the Modern Label punch. Two of the mini Pearls add a little elegance.

For the leaves, I stamped in Versamark with the Day of Gratitude stamp set. I stamped only so that I could have a guide to cut out--on the final project, the stamped side of the leaf is facing the box so that you don't see it. Next I ran the leaves through the Big Shot with the Spider Web Impressions Folder to add the 'veins' to the leaves. This isn't my original idea, although unfortunately I don't know where to give credit--it's one of those ideas floating around the web. But either way, don't pack away that Spider Web folder quite yet--it's useful for Thanksgiving and fall too. :-)

Thanks for stopping by! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see the other projects for this week. And then play along with us--we'd love to see what you create!

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes, Day of Gratitude

Ink: Early Espresso, Versamark

Paper: More Mustard, Old Olive, Cajun Craze, Early Espresso, Very Vanilla, Autumn Spice Specialty DSP

Accessories: Candy Wrapper Die, Spider Web IF, Big Shot, Early Espresso grosgrain ribbon, Word Window punch, Modern Label punch, Basic Pearls, dimensionals

Simply Amazing

2010-11-17T09:32:00.000-06:00

Have you ever thought about becoming a Stampin Up demonstrator?

Whether you are looking for a business opportunity, or a discount on your crafting supplies, Stampin Up has a place for you! If you join the Stampin Up family before the end of November, you can purchase the starter kit for $87.50! That's 50% off the regular price and means that you get over $310 of crafting and business supplies for less than $90!

Not only is this a wonderful (never before seen) price, it is also a wonderful opportunity. I have enjoyed every minute of being a demonstrator, and look back amazed at the wonderful opportunities it has provided for friendships, travel, and more.

Contact me today so we can chat about the wonderful support and opportunities that Stampin Up provides for its demonstrators. I'd love to have you join my team!

Visit my website for more info!

Contempo Christmas

2010-11-16T15:38:00.000-06:00

I'm back and trying to get back into the swing of blogging again. :-) If you haven't heard about it already, there's a great Handmade Holiday promotion going on right now with Stampin' Up! You can purchase holiday bundles at a 20% discount! Check out the flyer HERE.

These cards showcase the Contempo Christmas Card Bundle. The bundle consists of the Contempo Christmas stamp set (you can choose wood mount or clear mount) and a pack of the Jolly Holiday Designer Series Paper. The idea for this card came from Claudia Perry's card that is posted on Stampin' Connection (a website for Stampin' Up demonstrators).

Tips: I used the clear mount stamp set and mounted both the tree and sentiment images onto block E at the same time. That way I could line up the images once, and ink and stamp multiple cards. I used markers to ink the images.

I used the Glimmer Brads on these cards. And I must say they are prettier in person than how they look in the Holiday Mini Catalog. :-) I opened the brad wide, slipped the ribbon between the prongs of the brad, and then used some needle-nose pliers to wrap the prongs of the brad around the ribbon. Then a glue dot keeps the brad in place on the card.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Contempo Christmas

Ink: Real Red, Old Olive
Paper: Crumb Cake, Real Red, Very Vanilla, Jolly Holiday DSP

Accessories: Glimmer Brads (Brights), Old Olive and Real Red Satin Ribbon, Scallop Edge punch, Corner Rounder punch

Stampin' Celebration #27

2010-11-04T09:34:00.000-05:00

It's already Thursday again, and what a pretty Stampin' Celebration inspiration piece! I just love all the colors associated with fall! So here's what I made for this week:

It seems I'm always in need of little note cards. I like simple ones that I can either make quickly as needed, or that I can easily mass produce and have on hand. So, this week I took the color scheme of the inspiration piece and went to work.

I used my new Northern Trim Letterpress Plate from the Holiday Mini Catalog and my set of Brights Craft Spots. I inked up the letterpress plate, positioned the note card, ran it through the Big Shot, added a few Basic Pearls to each card, and that's it!! Perhaps the fastest cards I've ever made. :-)

It's hard to see in the photo, but the letterpress plates give you a debossed, inked impression. So it's a fun new technique to add to your cards.

A couple of hints when using the letterpress plates: The craft inks do work better than the classic inks. I needed to use a shim with my Big Shot (you may not need to with yours). Also, a thicker paper gives you a crisper images--Whisper White worked ok, but water color paper, textured paper, or even the Crumb Cake I used here work better. It took me a couple times to get the hang of using these new plates, but they are really easy and produce professional looking results once you get the hang of it.

Thanks for stopping by! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see what the Design Team has been up to this week. And then make sure to play along--we'd love to see what you are inspired to make. :-)

Ink: Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive, and Tangerine Tango craft ink spots.

Paper: Crumb Cake

Accessories: Northern Trim Letterpress Plate, Big Shot, Basic Pearls

Stampin' Celebration #26

2010-10-28T08:17:00.002-05:00

Yep, I'm finally back. :-) I won't go into a lot of excuses, but it has been an interesting week and a half! Without further ado, here is my project for the Stampin' Celebration challenge this week:

I really liked the cake in the top left photo, so I used that as my main inspiration. And somewhere along the way my cake became a stack of presents. :-) But I liked that I ended up with a masculine birthday card--usually those are so hard for me that to end up with one without meaning to is quite a treat!

The center present is Designer Paper from the Play Date pack. The top present is Tempting Turquoise, and I ran the edges of the present through my Early Espresso pad to add a little definition. The bottom present is Old Olive, and I stamped with Very Vanilla craft ink and my Dot, Dot, Dot stamp.

The sentiment is from the set All Holidays, and the presents are tied up with a bit of Early Espresso grosgrain ribbon. The presents and the So Saffron panel are up on dimensionals.

Thanks so much for stopping by! Make sure to hope on over to Stampin' Celebration to see what the other Design Team members are up to this week. :-)

Stamps: All Holidays and Dot, Dot, Dot

Ink: Early Espresso, Very Vanilla craft

Paper: Play Date DSP, Tempting Turquoise, Old Olive, So Saffron, Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla

Accessories: Early Espresso grosgrain ribbon, mini glue dot, dimensionals

Stampin' Celebration #24

2010-10-14T07:25:00.000-05:00

It's Thursday and time for another Stampin' Celebration challenge! I loved all the pumpkins in this picture and especially those cute guys up in the top left with the masks. Too cute! I'm going to try to remember them when we are carving pumpkins in a few weeks. :-)

I created this fun little 'pumpkin' not only for the challenge this week, but we also made this at my Holiday Stamp A Stack. This is the Mini Milk Carton die with Pumpkin Pie card stock.

To create the 'face' I took the idea from Sheila Thibault over on Stampin' Connection (a Stampin' Up website for demonstrators). I later found Sheila's blog--see HERE. Lots of cute Halloween ideas in that post! I started by using the 1 3/4" by 7/8" Oval punch to punch just the edge of my card stock--this creates the top of the mouth. Then I used my 1 1/4" circle punch to punch the bottom of the mouth. Next I used the Spiral Border punch to create the teeth. The eyes come from the tips of the Extra Large Star Punch.

To finish off my little pumpkin I added some sponging in Basic Black, a Library Clip from the Clips Assortment, some Old Olive grosgrain ribbon, and some curled Old Olive paper. To curl the paper, just wrap it around a pen, paper piercing tool, etc. The paper holds its curl surprisingly well!

Thanks for stopping by! Make sure to hop on over to Stampin' Celebration to see what other fun projects the Design Team has made this week!

Ink: Basic Black

Paper: Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive, Basic Black

Accessories: Clips Assortment, Old Olive grosgrain ribbon, 1 3/4" by 7/8" Oval punch, 1 1/4" circle punch, Spiral Border punch, Extra Large Star Punch, Mini Milk Carton die, Big Shot

Come to Bethlehem

2010-10-12T21:54:00.001-05:00

I'm not always good about planning ahead for holidays, but this year I've already made several different Christmas card designs, so I'm feeling pretty good. Of course I created the cards (this being one of them) for my Holiday Stamp A Stack last weekend--but we'll just pretend I'm on top of my planning. :-)

Anyway, this card uses the set Come to Bethlehem. I inked the stamp with Early Espresso, and then I dabbed Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint on top of the ink--all before I stamped on my Naturals White card stock. That gives the Wisemen image a nice shimmer.

For the base of the card I rounded the edges and used the background stamp Sanded--stamped with Versamark. I also used the new Waffle Paper (found in the Holiday Mini Catalog) to add a little more interest and dimension. I like that the Waffle Paper is a fun accessory that doesn't add too much bulk to your card. I ran a line of adhesive and then just folded the Waffle Paper back on itself as I moved across--kind of like ribbon folding.

Stamps: Come to Bethlehem, Sanded BG

Ink: Early Espresso, Versamark
Paper: Crumb Cake, Naturals White, Early Espresso

Accessories: Waffle Paper (assortment 2), Linen Thread, Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint, sponge, Cutter Kit, Corner Rounder punch

Stampin' Celebration #23

2010-10-07T09:21:00.000-05:00

Another great inspiration piece this week from Stampin' Celebration! It's actually been feeling a little more like fall here in Houston--at least it isn't hot anymore. . . . we've had several 'perfect' days where it's been cool in the morning and perfectly warm in the afternoon. Loving it!

Anyway, I wanted to create a fall themed project for this challenge, so I pulled out my new set I received at the Fort Worth Regional called Day of Gratitude--found in the Holiday Mini Catalog. I also used my Scallop Squares Duo Big Shot die--the larger of the two scallop squares measuring 3" by 3".

The 'cover' uses the Autumn Spice Specialty Designer Series Paper. This DSP paper is thicker than you'd expect and has a nice texture to it. After I ran the paper through the Big Shot I took my Early Espresso marker and went around the scallops. The leaf was stamped with Cajun Craze.

For the pages of the book, I cut 8 scallop squares from Very Vanilla and add a little stamping here and there. I put everything together with a binder clip and a little Early Espresso Grosgrain ribbon.

My idea with this book is that for Thanksgiving this year I want to record what our family is grateful for. I want each person to have a turn writing (or for the kids telling) what they treasure in life. Or, I thought that since it is pretty small, this could also be a fun 'on the go' gratitude book to keep in my purse and just occasionally note my blessing, thoughts, great quotes I hear, etc.

Anyway, hop on over to Stampin' Celebration to see what the other member of the Design Team have been up this week! And then be inspired to make your own project!

Stamps: Day of Gratitude

Ink: Early Espresso (and marker), Cajun Craze, More Mustard, Old Olive

Paper: Very Vanilla, Early Espresso, Autumn Spice DSP

Accessories: Scallop Squares Duo die, Big Shot, Pearls, 2" by 1 3/8" Oval punch, Decorative Label punch, binder clip, Early Espresso grosgrain ribbon, dimensionals

WICKEDly Halloween--ish

2010-10-06T08:24:00.000-05:00

I'm back to share the last project I created for the October WICKED challenges over at Splitcoaststampers. If you missed the details of what this is about see HERE.

This challenge called Halloween-ish is to take one or more of the ‘traditional’ Halloween colors (orange, black, gray, purple, green) and use them on a NON-Halloween project. So I picked the colors Rich Razzleberry and Old Olive as my 'Halloween' colors.

The main image, from the set Awash with Flowers, is stamped on the oval that comes from the center of the Frame, Scallop Oval Bigz Die. The line art is stamped with Basic Black craft ink and heat embossed with Clear Embossing Powder. Then I spritzed the paper with water and stamped the Rich Razzleberry solid image (stamped off twice first).

After I sponged and distressed the edges, I spritzed with Smooch Spritz to give a subtle shimmer. The card base is stamped with Versamark and the Sanded Background stamp. I also used the Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border punch and Old Olive taffeta ribbon.

I'd love to see your take on this or any of the other challenges! If you are a demonstrator registered with SCS, check out THIS thread for details and where to upload. If you're not a demonstrator, send me a picture or leave a link with your project in a comment and I'll come check it out!

Stamps: Awash with Flowers, Tiny Tags, Sanded BG

Ink: Old Olive, Rich Razzleberry, Baisc Black Craft, Versamark
Paper: Crumb Cake, Rich Razzleberry, Naturals White

Accessories: Old Olive 3/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border punch, Jewelry Tag Medium punch, Heat Tool, Embossing Buddy, Clear EP, Big Shot, Frame Scallop Oval Bigz die, linen thread, cutter kit, sponge, dimensionals

Dazzle Me--WICKED style

2010-10-05T08:04:00.016-05:00

Here's another one of the projects I created for the October WICKED challenges over at Splitcoaststampers. If you missed the details of what I'm talking about see HERE.

This challenge was to Dazzle Me! If you follow my blog or attend my classes you know that I love to add a little bit of sparkle to projects. There’s just something about it that makes me smile. So the challenge is to add some sparkle to your project—this could be the new Glass Glitter in the Holiday Mini Catalog, Smooch Accent Ink, Smooch Spritz, Shimmer Paint, Chunky Glitter, Fine Glitter, or even the classic Dazzling Diamonds.

For this card I started by stamping the snowflake images from the set Serene Snowflakes in Night of Navy ink on Whisper White card stock. Then I face-planted my card stock into one of the new Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets from the Holiday Mini Catalog. Next I poured Dazzling Diamonds over the top. The adhesive keeps the glitter in place so now the entire snowflake panel is glittery!

And if that wasn't enough bling, I added a few rhinestones as well. :-) I also added the Night of Navy taffeta ribbon folded a couple times to add a little more interest.

This is also one of the cards that is in the running to be included in the Holiday Stamp A Stack that I am hosting this weekend. If you live in Houston (Clear Lake area) and would like more details, send me an email. I'd love to have you attend!

Stamps: Serene Snowflakes

Ink: Night of Navy

Paper: Bashful Blue, Night of Navy, Whisper White
Accessories: Night of Navy 3/8" Taffeta ribbon, Rhinestone Jewels, Big Shot Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets, Dazzling Diamonds, dimensionals

Time to be WICKED

2010-10-04T09:42:00.000-05:00

Today I have some more fun news to share. . . . A little bit ago Jana (know as indyemmert on Spiltcoaststampers) contacted me to ask if I would be the October WICKED stamper and challenge hostess! Of course I said yes. ;-) These challenges are specifically meant for Stampin' Up demonstrators, so you will have to be a demo registered with SCS to see the challenges and threads (see HERE), but even if you aren't a demo, you can be inspired and play along with me!

One of the challenges I picked was Going Soft. I'm loving the addition of fabric to the Stampin' Up, line, so I wanted to create a project using the fun new Designer Fabric. Here I used the Deck the Halls Designer Fabric, from the Holiday Mini Catalog but of course despite the name it's not only for Christmas. :-) I actually had Valentine's day in mind when I made this card.

The finished card size is 4 1/4" by 4 1/4". Going from the bottom up, the Very Vanilla layer was distressed around the edges using the Cutter Kit and the Distressing Essentials Kit--the Tea Stain ink.

The Cherry Cobbler (non-card base) layer was crumpled and then flattened to give more texture. I frayed the edges of the fabric a bit and used Snail adhesive to put a layer of Very Vanilla card stock under it.

For the hearts, I punched them and then layed them on top of a Multipurpose Adhesive Sheet, peeled off, and then poured Dazzling Diamonds over the top. The adhesive keeps the glitter in place so that you have lots of sparkle!

I hope you like this card--it's a little more vintage than I usually make, but it was fun to try to step out of my comfort zone a bit! Check back later to see what I created for the other two challenges!

Stamps: Tiny Tags

Ink: Cherry Cobbler

Paper: Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla

Accessories: Deck the Halls Designer Fabric, Distressing Essentials Kit, Victoria Crochet Trim ribbon, Antique Brad, Full Heart punch, Heart to Heart punch, Jewelry Tag Medium punch, linen thread, dimensionals

Stampin' Celebration #22

2010-09-30T11:53:00.038-05:00

Look at this fun inspiration piece from Stampin' Celebration! I had fun using it as my inspiration to create this card:

For some reason I wasn't feeling the bee theme, so I went with the bottom left photo as my inspiration. I used my Flower, Daisies #2 Big Shot die for the flower (two layered on top of each other). For the center of the flower I started with a 1/2" circle punched from Early Espresso and then daubed it with Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint. Next I added a layer of Crystal Effects. I know the picture doesn't capture the amazing shimmer of it, so you'll just have to try it for yourself!

I sponged just the tips of the daisies, as well as around the Daffodil Delight layer and the Crumb Cake card base with Early Espresso ink. I added the Hemp Twine around the Daffodil Delight layer to add a little more interest, and then stamped the sentiment (from the set Just Believe) with Versamark and heat embossed with White Stampin' Emboss Powder.

And there you have it! Make sure to head over to Stampin' Celebration to see what the other members of the Design Team have been up to this week.

Stamps: Just Believe

Ink: Versamark, Early Espresso

Paper: Crumb Cake, Daffodil Delight, Early Espresso, Whisper White

Accessories: Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint, Crystal Effects, Hemp Twine, Daisies #2 die, Big Shot, 1/2" Circle punch, White Stampin' Emboss Powder, Heat Tool, Embossing Buddy, dimensionals

Birthday Star

2010-09-29T21:38:00.047-05:00

Today I have a masculine card to share. Is it only me, or is it hard to make cards for guys? I really wanted to add more to this card (at least some sparkle to the center star) but I tried to leave it simple.

I used my Big Shot and the Movers & Shapers die to cut the star from the Not Quite Navy layer. Next I added some Paper Piercing and distressing around the edge of that layer. I punched a More Mustard star with the Extra Large Star punch and a Cajun Craze star with my (retired) star punch. The entire Not Quite Navy layer and the More Mustard star are up on dimensionals.

I stamped the sentiment (ironically from the set Messages for Mom) with Jet Black StazOn ink directly onto the Twill Tape and added the More Mustard brads. One of my club members had the wonderful idea to add the star (extra from when we used the Movers & Shapers die) as the closure on the envelope.

Check back tomorrow to see what I created for the this week's Stampin' Celebration challenge!

Stamps: Messages for Mom

Ink: Jet Black StazOn

Paper: Not Quite Navy, More Mustard, Cajun Craze

Accessories: 3/8" Twill Tape, Regals Brads, Big Shot, Movers & Shapers die, Mat Pack, Paper Piercing Tool, Extra Large Star Punch, Star Punch, dimensionals

Owl Birthday

2010-09-28T09:10:00.055-05:00

Isn't this the cutest little owl? He debuted in the new catalog in July and although I was able to resist for a few months, (I don't need everything, right?) I finally bought him after I had seen so many creative ideas using this punch. The Extra Large Two-Step Owl punch actually punches nice pieces at once. All of the pieces (body, eyes, vest, heart) came from the one punch.

The idea for this card (just a few minor adjustments) came from the July 2010 Stampin' Success--a monthly magazine packed with ideas that you receive as a Stampin' Up demonstrator. I've also seen many other cute ideas from creative demonstrators who have used this punch to create roses (trim the feet and layer a few 'bodies' together) and ghosts (flip the body upside down and trim the legs) among other great ideas.

The colors are Bashful Blue, So Saffron, Crumb Cake and Early Espresso. I stamped and then hand cut the sentiment into the little banner that is slightly curled to give some dimension. I stamped the small Bashful Blue layer with the Dot, Dot, Dot stamp and Versamark. I tied a bit of Hemp Twine (use a mini glue dot to keep it in place) around the Antique Brass Mini Library Clip.

Stamps: Dot, Dot, Dot

Paper: Bashful Blue, So Saffron, Crumb Cake, Early Espresso and Whisper White

Ink: Versamark

Accessories: Mini Library Clips, Two-Step Owl Punch Extra Large, Scallop Edge Border punch, 1 3/4" by 7/8" Oval Punch, Cutter Kit, Hemp Twine, dimensionals

Gratitude & Appreciation

2010-09-24T09:34:00.000-05:00

Isn't this a pretty card? Even though I didn't make this card, I thought it would be fun to show it. This is the card that Shelli handed to me as I was walking off stage after my presentation at the Fort Worth Regionals. It is a thank you note from Mark Jessen thanking me for helping out.

This card shows off several new items from the Holiday Mini Catalog--the new 2 1/2" Circle punch, the Autumn Spice Specialty Designer Series Paper, and the sentiment is from the set Seasonal Sentiments. I love how the stamp is actually a Thanksgiving stamp, but the creator of the card just didn't include the "sending Thanksgiving wishes" part of the stamp.

Finished card size is 3" by 6". Have a great weekend!

Stamps: Seasonal Sentiments

Ink: Basic Black

Paper: More Mustard textured, Cajun Craze, Very Vanilla, Autumn Spice DSP

Accessories: Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border punch, Itty Bitty Shapes punch pack, 2 1/2" Circle punch, pearls, 1/8" Old Olive Taffeta Ribbon, cutter kit, dimensionals