Barb's Stamping Spot

3-D Advent Calendar

2011-11-20T09:13:00.000-05:00

This project has kept me busy! You see, I meet each month with a fun bunch of ladies....my Stamp Club. For this holiday season, I wanted to have them create something really different....we usually do cards and/or small 3-D projects. This year, we created this Advent Calendar.

Although I used as much as I could from Stampin'Up!, there really isn't much here. SU really does offer many fabulous products....but, in my continued effort to use much of my "stash," this is what I came up with. The focal point (inside) background of this calendar, was with 1 piece of scrapbook paper that I found in a store (non SU). Since I needed quite a few of this particular design, it was the way for me to go!

The Letter to Santa was computer generated on River Rock Cardstock, sponged and distressed. The embossing folder used was a non-SU, but it just works perfectly for that little "letter," don't you think?

This calendar came completely flat and needed to be totally assembled...we used Multi-Purpose Liquid Glue (Item #110755)....GREAT stuff! The drawers are made of chipboard and also were flat....so they needed to be painted inside and on the base and wrapped with paper. The numbers are also chipboard and were painted and added with Mini Glue Dots. All paper was added using the fabulous SU Glue Sticks....not sure what makes them so special, other than the shape, but they really are the best and worked perfectly for this project! All DSP was applied using our Glue Sticks.

I had loads of fun designing this project and all the ladies loved it.....and now we each have this wonderful keepsake to share with our families for years to come. It did involve quite a bit of time, but was so worth the effort!

Thanks for stopping by today!

Note: No supplies listed, as much is non-SU or has been retired. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

It's Beginning to Look a Little Like Christmas!

2011-11-15T19:13:00.000-05:00

OK....I'm back! First a power outage then no computer! Life has certainly been crazy lately......and I've been really wanting to share this one with you. I am happy with the way this one came out....I made this last month for a small shoe box swap that I participated in.

As you can see, I've used the new-this-year-set, Merry and Type. Truthfully, this set didn't catch my eye until I saw some really, really wonderfully beautiful samples with it! It's a fabulous set!! For this version, the stamped image was embossed using Cherry Cobbler Embossing Powder over Versamark. The white areas on the ornaments was "colored in" using the new Dazzling Details. This stuff is so cool....it dries surprisingly quickly and is a bit more subtle than Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, but oh, so pretty!....you can find it in the Holiday Mini and it's really an inexpensive "must have" to add to your card creations. Oh, and the extra little touch of the Basic Rhinestone in the center of the middle ornament just sets everything off, don't you think?!

Stamps: Merry and Type

Inks: Versamark

CS: Whisper White, Crumb Cake, Cherry Cobbler

Big Shot: Perfect Details Texturz Plate

Misc: White Gel Pen, Cherry Cobbler EP, Dazzling Details, Basic Rhinestones, Scallop Trim Border Punch

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

Christmas is Coming!

2011-11-06T22:22:00.001-05:00

The Christmas season is almost here! Are you ready? I know that I certainly am not.....not even close. BUT, I am trying to come up with my Christmas card design. It's certainly time, don't you think? It's another card (as promised in my last post!) in Wild Wasabi and Cherry Cobbler. I just love this color combination!!

Actually, this is a sample of a recent swap I participated in last month. It wasn't a large one....this time, I only needed 11 of them....easy! Lots of little details....and steps....

As you can see, I used the wonderful Snowburst Embossing Folder. Over top, is a piece of Cherry Cobbler cardstock that was embossed with one of the new Designer Frame embossing folders (it's a set of two). I really enjoy using this embossing folder....it works perfectly with the Wide Oval Punch, which is how the white oval was created for the inside. No need to cut out an oval....Stampin'Up! has made it easy for us....the Whisper White oval was simply punched from a scrap. This really sets off the punched stocking that is the focal point. The Stitched Stocking stamp set and Stocking Builder Punch (both from the Holiday Mini Catalog) made the creation of this stocking so easy! And check out the sparkly toe and heal....from Silver Glimmer Paper, also from the Holiday Mini. Add in a bit of Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine and a Basic Rhinestone....and of course, a greeting and it's complete!

Stamps: Stitched Stockings, Petite Pairs

Inks: Cherry Cobbler, Wild Wasabi

CS: Whisper White, Cherry Cobbler, Wild Wasabi, Silver Glimmer Paper

Big Shot: Snowburst EF, Designer Frame EF

Punches: Wide Oval, Word Window, Modern Label, Stocking Builder, Corner Rounder

Misc: Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine, Multi-Purpose Adhesive (to adhere bow), Basic Rhinestone

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Final Edition of My GoDiva Swap

2011-11-03T16:06:00.000-04:00

WOW! New Jersey weather has always been unpredictable, but this last week we had an unprecedented snowstorm on October 29. We only had about 6 inches of that really heavy-wet-type snow, but not far from here they had a foot or more. The biggest problem with the snow was that many of our trees have yet to loose their leaves! Seeing the ground covered with snow and the trees above the snow with still-green leaves was quite the site!

So, the result of the heavy snow and all the leaves still on their branches was way to much weight for the trees to bare, so limbs...and trees!....came crashing down everywhere! Meaning, that many wires came down with the branches. So, we, along with so, so many of our neighbors, had no power for a few days! Some neighborhoods looked like war zones. Having no electric or heat....and of course, no internet!, for a few days sure makes you appreciate some of the little things in life! You haven't lived until you've cooked had to cook a meatloaf on your gas grill! LOL But, slowly, things are returning to normal around here....but all those broken trees will be around to remind us of this last storm for a very long time!

Now that my power is back, I can freely use my computer (was conserving the battery on my laptop for emergencies!), and post my final Go Diva Swap from last month. I must have been in a red and green mood, because if you notice, that is what my last post, this post, and even the next one (coming soon!) all were made of! This card is a fairly simple, basic layout, all dressed up.....

The Whisper White background layer was impressed with that wonderful, new Snowburst Embossing Folder and layered onto Wild Wasabi....it's a definite must add to your collection item! Across the center is a layer of Wild Wasabi that was cut with the fabulous Lace Ribbon Border Punch....but what really sets it all off is that scrumptious Cherry Cobbler Quilted Ribbon that lays across the border!....doesn't that ribbon just make this card looks so amazing?!! The focal centerpiece layers are on Dimensionals and check out that little Basic Rhinestone in place of the dot over the "i" in King. I am really happy with this card, even if it isn't clever and innovative! Instead, maybe it's a bit classy and traditional?

Stamps: The Sounding Joy

Inks: Cherry Cobbler, Wild Wasabi

CS: Whisper White, Cherry Cobbler, Wild Wasabi

Big Shot: Snowburst EF

Misc: Dimensionals, Basic Rhinestones, Lace Ribbon Border Punch, Cherry Cobbler Quilted Ribbon, Stamp-a-ma-jig (It's a MUST for proper placement of these 2 stamps!!)

Thanks so much for stopping by today and visiting!

Another Almost GoDiva Swap

2011-10-29T00:28:00.000-04:00

Are you ready for Fall? I am....it's my favorite season!....Unfortunately, I think we're pretty much skipping that around here......seems we're in for a Nor'easter and if all the predictions are right, at least 6" of snow tomorrow! Here in northern NJ, I don't EVER remember getting any substantial amount of snow before Halloween!

So, with snow on its way, this card definitely seems appropriate....and this is another of my recent, almost GoDiva swaps. Truthfully, this one is my favorite, but I found I didn't have enough Basic Rhinestones to complete 30 of these....and without the rhinestones, it just didn't have the same pizazz! Gotta have some bling! And those bows would have taken a lot of time....as lovely and luscious as that quilted ribbon is, it's a bit of a bear to tie nicely and neatly into compact little bows! But, OH, it's just so pretty....and adds a touch of class to just about any card you add it to!

What do you think? Isn't this set lovely? I just love the scroll-y type greetings that come with this set. Gorgeous!! Remember, this is a current Holiday Mini set...only available for a short time!

Stamps: The Sounding Joy
Inks: Wild Wasabi, Cherry Cobbler
CS: Whisper White, Wild Wasabi, Cherry Cobbler
Big Shot: Northern Flurry EF
Misc: Dimensionals, Basic Rhinestones, Cherry Cobbler Quilted Satin Ribbon

Thanks so much for stopping by today!!

A Holiday Swap....Almost!

2011-10-26T00:00:00.000-04:00

Oh! My goodness....where has the time gone?! It seems like just a short time ago I made my last post.....but it was a few weeks ago! Thank you so much for your patience. I HAVE been stamping....I just haven't had time to post! So...in an effort to remedy that, here's my first of a few posts.....

This card was actually a sample I made up for a recent swap. It wasn't my final sample, but I still kinda like it. Non-traditional colors....I love the unexpected, don't you? This wonderful set, The Sounding Joy, is available now from the Holiday Mini. It's just so pretty!....and to me, it speaks of what Christmas really is about.

So, the background words, which are really the real words to "Joy to the World," were stamped in Baja Breeze onto a circle of Whisper White....the circle was created with the Big Shot and the Clear Circle die. As you can see, it was then stamped over top with the greeting, also from the same set, and embossed with Cherry Cobbler Embossing Powder....that stuff is just so pretty! And can you see the Large Snowflake peaking out? Also created with the Big Shot. This was all highlighted with those awesome Basic Rhinestones (can you tell that I just love them?!!). And the impressed background was made using the fabulous new Snow Burst Embossing Folder. It's kind of like the Square Lattice EF in a way....the cardstock takes on this wonderfully supple feel after a spin through the Big Shot; it truly changes the texture of the cardstock. But as you can plainly see, only a portion of the Baja Breeze layer was impressed.

This was all set off with my favorite ribbon....White Taffeta and a touch of the Cherry Cobbler & White Baker's Twine and topped with another Basic Rhinestone. This card is pretty....in large part because of that beautiful set, but, it just didn't "send me!" So, after creating this, I was back to the drawing board! Please come back tomorrow and see my next pre-swap sample.

Stamps: The Sounding Joy

Inks: Baja Breeze, Versamark

CS: Cherry Cobbler, Baja Breeze, Whisper White

Big Shot: Clear Circle Die, Snowflake Die, Snow Burst EF

Misc: White Taffeta Ribbon, Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine, Basic Rhinestones

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

A Little Pink Duck

2011-10-14T21:26:00.001-04:00

Remember that last little duckie card?....the one that was a Baby Challenge card, but turned out to be a perfect for a little boy? Only problem with that was that I needed a card for a new little baby GIRL! So, this is what I finally came up with!

Basically, the duck in the center of this card was created the same as the duck from the boy card, but then I needed to add in some frilly things.....and make it pink!! I think the pink duck works, don't you?!! This is a real girly-girl card.

Here's how I made it:
(Some non-SU stuff here, as well as some retired SU!)
-There's a layer of impressed cardstock layered over the same color card base.
-The white strip was punched on both top and bottom.
-The little holes were covered by the tiniest Basic Pearls, which were colored using one of my Copic Markers.
-The little duckie was colored in using the same Copic Marker.
-The hat and umbrella were "colored in" using Dazzling Diamonds.
-The beak and polka dots were colored in using my old Pixie Pink marker.

Sure hope the new Mom likes this little card!

Stamps: Easy Events, Short & Sweet
Inks: Basic Black
CS: Mauve Mist*, Whisper White
Big Shot: Non-SU Embossing Folder, Circles Die
Misc: Copic Markers, Modern Label Punch, Pink Gingham Ribbon*, 1 3/4" Circle Punch, 2 3/8" Scallop Punch, Basic Pearls, Martha Stewart Border Punch, Dimensionals, Pixie Pink Marker*
*Retired SU (Remember I'm trying to use up some of the many things I have in my stash that are no longer current!!)

Thanks for stopping by today! (Sorry it's been so long...I've missed you!)

More from Toni

2011-09-27T16:49:00.000-04:00

Here's another of Toni's Stamp Camp projects that I made last week while visiting (and helping!). This one is just so cute....and I don't think that the photo really does it justice! (You can read more about my visit here and you'll see another of the projects, too!)

Toni had everything prepared for this one. She used the wonderful Fancy Favor Die and cut it out using textured Crumb Cake. Then the curvy top was trimmed off. And I don't know anyone else who has mastered the Direct-to-Paper (DTP) technique quite like Toni....she is definitely the Queen in my book! You can see this basket has a 2-tone look....Toni used Crumb Cake ink and colored it using the DTP technique. That textured cardstock really looks amazing with this technique!

She also slit the basket from the top down to allow for the weaving. For the weaving, we simply did basic weaving with strips of Crumb Cake CS. That's it! Each portion was adhered at the top with Sticky Strip....or you could use Mini Glue Dots, which is what I used.

The handle....well, it was simply adhered using 2 Gold Brads on each side....Toni also did DTP on that strip as well!

The second photo shows the close up of the little tag (you can click on it to make it a little larger). This set really didn't do a thing for me when I saw it in the Holiday Mini....it's called Gift Givers and each stamp image coordinates with one of our punches. I think I've fallin in love with it after this project....it's just so stinkin' cute!! As you can see, this turkey image works with the Curly Label Punch. (One lady at Toni's class liked the set so much she purchased it AND every single punch that coordinates with it!! WOW!) On our basket, we simply colored in the image with markers. The second photo gives a better close up of all the details. This was really fun....can't you just see it on your Thanksgiving table?!!

Stamps: Gift Givers

Inks: Early Espresso, Crumb Cake

CS: Early Espresso, Very Vanilla, Crumb Cake -- textured AND smooth

Big Shot: Fancy Favor Die Mover & Shaper (Curly Label shape)

Markers: Soft Suede, Chocolate Chip, More Mustard, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive, Riding Hood Red

Misc: Dimensionals, Gold Brads, Sticky Strip, Mini Glue Dots, Curly Label Punch

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

Just for Baby

2011-09-24T12:38:00.001-04:00

You've heard me say that I've been a member of various online stamping groups. One of them sends out Challenges each week, and although I really don't participate too often, I do try whenever I can. Recently, there was a baby card challenge. Well, I need a baby card....the daughter of a good friend of mine had a baby girl. So, I thought this would be a GOOD thing to participate in!

Well, as much fun as I had making the card....it did NOT turn into a baby girl card! I LOVE blue and yellow together...

yellow and pink, well, not so much! So, that's how this evolved into what it is. And it's just so cute, don't you think?!! Baby cards are sweet and such fun to make...after all, new babies are sweet and fun, too!

As with many of my cards, this is a basic, classic layout....all dressed up with lots of details. One of my favorite new things is to make the base of the card a color (in this case Bashful Blue) with a impressed layer in the same color over top....that way, the inside of the card has a nice clean look to it. The corners are all rounded. And that cute little duckie?...well, it's from the new Easy Events, a set we all received at Convention in July. Here's he's paper-pieced....in other words, I stamped him 3 times: 1 time on the Whisper White background paper, 1 time on Daffodil Delight, and finally a last time on Bashful Blue. Then I cut out the body of the duck stamped in Daffodil Delight, and the umbrella top out of Bashful Blue and layered them both onto the white stamped background. The little sailor hat and the dots in the umbrella are "colored" in with Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, which also outlines the waves. The duck bill was simply colored by using my Pumpkin Pie marker. And one of those cute little tiny Mini Brads (the new ones) was used for his eye.

The plaid background was a technique we learned at Convention....you can't see it on screen, but there's a lot of texture going on here. I inked up my new Stripes EF and put it through the Big Shot....then re-inked it and put the same paper back in but turning it 90 degrees first. Cool?!!...Huh?!!

Since there was so much going on, the saying is not layered, but the outlined letter and brackets were colored in with my Bashful Blue marker. Oh, and check out the inside....a plain and simple inside just wouldn't do! My Challenge Partner should be receiving this in the mail in today or maybe Monday....sure hope she likes it!

And as an added bonus, this card qualifies for the Challenge over at Hand-Stamped Sentiments. There's some fabulous entries this week! Be sure to check them out.

Stamps: Easy Events, Word Play, Full of Life

Inks: Basic Black, Bashful Blue, Basic Gray (for greeting inside), Daffodil Yellow (inside card)

CS: Whisper White, Daffodil Delight, Bashful Blue

Punches: Corner Rounder, Extra Large Oval, Scallop Border (inside card), 1 3/4" Circle, 2 3/8" Scallop

Big Shot: Perfect Polka Dots EF, Stripes EF, Circles (used for the Daffodil Delight circle layer), Scallop Squares Duo

Misc: Bashful Blue Grosgrin Ribbon, White Baker's Twine, Silver Mini Brad, Paper Piercer (to make hole), Pumkin Pie Marker, Bashful Blue Marker, Mini Glue Dots (to hold bow on)

Thanks so much for stopping by today!!

Stampin' with Friends

2011-09-23T17:11:00.000-04:00

Did I ever tell you that the BEST part of being a Stampin'Up! demonstrator is the friends you make along the way? I've met...and stamped....with people from all walks of life, from all over the country. SU has given me the opportunity to make friends with those that have been/are customers, as well as sister demonstrators...people I would never have met any other way!

So, why am I sharing this? Well, last week, I traveled down to my son and daughter-in-law's new home. You see, I have a bit of time off while the store I work in is being renovated (compliments of flooding caused by Hurricane Irene!) and my son began a new job this past Tuesday, but had some time off in between jobs. So, down to Virginia I went! I got to see his home all settled for the first time....they did a great job and it looks like it's going to be a very happy home.

I went down last Wednesday and Dan (my son) and I had a few projects and visited all of Thursday and Friday. But when Saturday came along, I figured it was time for me to get out of their hair and give my DIL a bit of time to herself....so I visited with my friend and sister demo, Toni Tessler, who lives about an hour away. Toni was hosting a Stamp Camp, and I told her I would come and help. In return, she had all the projects ready for me to make as well. Cute ideas! AND I, of course, had some time to visit after everyone left and all was quiet. Oh...and at the end of the day, I visited with another sister demo/friend, Jeannette! See? It really IS great to be a SU Demo! (Want to join in the fun? Contact me and see how.)

This photo here is one of the projects I helped with. This adorable idea was featured at Convention this past July, and Toni adapted and redesigned it to fit a Fall theme. The box itself is the Box #2 Bigz Die and then the box is "wrapped" with a piece of textured Cajun Craze CS and some of that wonderful Wide Grosgrain in Old Olive....only Toni didn't realize that the Old Olive has been retired. But things could easily be changed out to what is currently available in the catalog. The Triple Treat Flower is used on the front....don't you just love it?!!....remember, it's one of those single stamps available for purchase. It was inked in Old Olive and then stamped off lightly once before stamping on the Natural Ivory CS. And the best part? The saying....Toni took the Bright Blessings Jumbo Wheel and peeled the rubber off of the hard plastic wheel...then cut it apart to use all the different sayings and images as separate stamps. Ingenious!! They each work marvelously well with our clear blocks. Wouldn't this make a fabulous little treat box at your Thanksgiving table?!!

Here's the recipe:

Stamps: Triple Treat Flower, Bright Blessings Jumbo Wheel

Inks: Old Olive, Cajun Craze

CS: Old Olive, Natural Ivory, Cajun Craze, Cajun Craze Textured

Big Shot: Box #2 Bigz Die

Punches: 1 1/4" Round, 5-Petal Flower, 2 3/8" Scallop Circle

Misc: Sticky Strip (to hold everything together!), 1 1/4" Striped Wide Grosgrain in Old Olive (retired), Dimensionals

Thanks for stopping by and visiting today!

We Remember

2011-09-11T10:02:00.002-04:00

It's a Blue Jeans Kind of Day!

2011-09-06T17:00:00.000-04:00

Remember I attended the SU Convention in July? Well, I came home with at least a year's worth of ideas....and this was one of them! I landed in Salt Lake City about 4:30 and by 6:00 I was in the Convention center...things were in full swing! That first night, there were a lot of demonstrations and this little card is from one of them.

See the blue jeans? They were created by simply folding a piece of our new Denim Jean Ribbon in half and adding a new little Mini Brads....OK, we've had "Mini" Brads for a few years, but now all of those are simply called Brads.....they are 3/16" in diameter and come in a lot of different fabulous, coordinating colors. I use them all the time...they are definitely one of my very favorite accessories!.....LOVE them!

Well, these are the NEW Mini Brads (Item #122941 @ $5.50 for 100; Page 199)....and they are truly MINI!! At only 1/8", they are are just too stinkin' cute and so easy to use. The "legs" are easy to manipulate and bend in different directions, which was needed for these blue jeans. As you can see, the "jeans" are hanging on a clothes line (created with some White Baker's Twine) and those fun, new Mini Clothespins (Item #122042 @ $2.95 for 24). The background on this card was created with the classic Lovely as a Tree....so happy that set is still in the catalog! It's such a GREAT set for so many things! Think Christmas, masculine, birthday.........

This was one of my favorite ideas from Convention (although there were lots of favorites!)....so simple, but so fun and creative! Gotta love that! So, last week when a few of us demonstrators got together, those of us who attended Convention gave a little demo on some of the ideas and tips we saw. This was just one of my "shares." So, now, I just wanted to share this fun little idea with you!

Stamps: Lovely as a Tree, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Inks: Early Espresso
CS: Crumb Cake, Early Espresso
Misc: Blue Jean Denim Ribbon, Mini Brads, Mini Clothes Pins, Mini Glue Dots, White Baker's Twine, Crop-a-Dile (for making the holes for the "clothes line"), Modern Label Punch, Word Window Punch

Thanks so much for stopping by today!!

A Late Birthday Card

2011-09-04T20:26:00.001-04:00

One of my nephews recently had a birthday and of all my nieces and nephews, he's one of the few that really looks forward to the cards I send to see what I've created for him. To be honest, the actual day of his birthday kind of slipped right by me (my bad!!).....so, this is a belated birthday card.

I wanted something masculine, of course....he just turned 20, and I wanted something easy to mail and something that was quick and easy.....after all buttons and bows really aren't going to impress him! This sample features all retired items (except for the cardstock)!

Both the retired Large and Small Star Punches were used to create the stars and laid out onto a piece of Natural White CS. When each of the stars were adhered, it was run through my Big Shot with the Square Lattice Embossing Folder. (He's gonna think this is so cool!) The Happy Birthday image in the center is from the now-retired Engraved Greeting....it's such a perfect set for simple, masculine cards, so I just couldn't give it up! The finishing touch is the simple piece of ribbon in matching Riding Hood Red (long retired) that goes across the card.

Hope he likes it!

Stamps: Engraved Greeting*

Inks: Riding Hood Red

CS: Crumb Cake, Marina Mist, Riding Hood Red, More Mustard, Natural White

Big Shot: Square Lattice EF

Misc: Large & Small Star Punches*, Corner Rounder* (used older, retired version), Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon*, Dimensionals
*Retired

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Color Challenge....A Lot Late!

2011-08-31T23:00:00.004-04:00

Hurricane Irene came and went....fortunately, here at my house, other than some yard clean up....mainly just leaves and small branches...we came out unharmed, we didn't even loose our power. We were very, very fortunate, while many in our area were not. There are many rivers in NJ, and it seemed that every one of them caused flooding. Where I work, which is less than 10 minutes from my home....well, there was 2 feet of water in the store and in the entire downtown business area....no telling when we'll reopen. Driving around right now is an adventure since so many roads, even major highways, were either washed away or closed due to flooding. President Obama is supposed to visit the area tomorrow to view the damage. Irene certainly left her mark here. So, when you see some of the devastation on the news...it truly is not an exaggeration. They say this was a 100 year flood....I've lived in NJ all my life, I've never seen such destruction that has been so widespread as this has been. Last week certainly was interesting....an earthquake AND a hurricane all in one week! WOW!

Well, you know now that I'm fine....but, you came to see a card. This is WAAAAYYY late! A few weeks ago, there was a Blogger's Challenge that was a color challenge....they are one of my favorite challenges! The colors were in the form of color dots and on my screen, the colors I used in this card matched....but I'm not sure if this is what they actually were!

Anyway, I didn't get the chance to share back when this was a Challenge, (don't remember why...sorry!!) but thought I'd share it now, 'cause I really like the way this card came out. This set, Easy Events, is one of the sets we received at Convention in July. What a GREAT set it is!! I'm sure this is going to be a great, all-purpose set.

For this card, as you can see, the flowers were stamped repeatedly across a piece of Natural Ivory and colored in with markers. The centers of each flower was dotted with my White Gel Pen, but everything looked blurry and murky, so I added in the simple Basic Pearls in each center....that's just what it needed! How cute, right?!!

This was a simple and easy card with some really fun elements.....the Basic Pearls, which I already mentioned; the Perfect Polka Dots in the background, and the fabulous new Lace Ribbon Border Punch with the Marina Mist Ribbon woven through. Oh, and that saying is just the perfect finishing touch...IMHO!....which is from the fun, new Hostess set, Happiest Birthday Wishes.

Stamps: Easy Events, Happiest Birthday Wishes
Inks: Basic Black
CS: Natural Ivory, Crumb Cake, Baja Breeze, Wisteria Wonder
Big Shot: Perfect Polka Dots EF
Misc: Basic Pearls, White Gel Pen, Wisteria Wonder Marker, Pear Pizzazz Marker, Lace Ribbon Border Punch, Marina Mist Ribbon

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

Rain, Rain Go Away!

2011-08-27T22:21:00.000-04:00

Well, Hurricane Irene is knocking at my door....she's been downgraded to a Category 1, but is bringing lots of rain with her. So, my stamp room is partially packed, everything is up off of the floor and onto my desk top....you see, my stamp room is in the basement. We've had so much rain lately (this has been the 6th wettest August on record!) that with all the rain that Irene is supposed to give us (expecting 7-12 inches tonight!), it's likely that we'll get some water down there. So, no stamping for me!! Sigh! Fortunately, our visitor should be gone by tomorrow afternoon.....definitely an unwelcome visitor!! Hopefully, the aftermath and clean up won't be too awful.

In the meantime, I have a card to share with you! This card was a quick and easy one I made last week...I needed a few thank you, thinking of you, and get well cards. This one was perfect for all those, I just changed out the greeting as needed....this was the first time I used the lovely Flower Garden Embossing Folder. Just a portion of the image was used. To make it stand out a bit more, it was sponged with White Craft Ink and then the centers of each flower was dotted with 2-Way Glue and Dazzling Diamonds Glitter. As you can see, this was paired with the brand-new Houndstooth Embossing Folder in the background. This wonderful new EF is just the perfect size for a card front, but I personally like a nice clean look inside my card....so, this is a layer on layer. Meaning that the embossing is an extra layer on the card base....both in Elegant Eggplant. One of my new favorite color combos is this wonderful color paired with the fabulous new InColor, Wisteria Wonder. Add in just a bit of Whisper White to give it a bit of crispness and set it all off......and it's perfection! Notice that the stamping on this card is minimal.....but, I really do love the finished effect.

Stamps: Petite Pairs
Inks: White Craft, Elegant Eggplant
CS: Whisper White, Elegant Eggplant, Wisteria Wonder
Big Shot: Houndstooth EF, Flower Garden EF
Misc: 2-Way Glue Pen, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, White Taffeta Ribbon

Thanks so much for stopping by today!
If I don't loose power (and cable) for too long, I'll be back tomorrow with another sample to share.

Card Tins -- Final Post

2011-08-27T13:40:00.003-04:00

The last 2 posts have been about these card tins.....they have taken over my life lately....at least most of my spare time! Remember, there were 6 tins, each with 12 cards and matching envelopes, all hand stamped by me...and then placed in this gift bag. Whew! So glad that project is behind me!! Although I have to admit that I did have fun making and creating all the cards, the tins, and even the gift bags...which I am sharing here. Just happy to move onto other things!

I'm really pleased with the way the bags came out....do you remember this wrapping paper from SU? It was called Blizzard and is from a few years back...don't remember how far back, though. There were 2 rolls...the blue with the little dots and the coordinating Chocolate Chip and Bashful Blue snowflake patterned paper. The very bottom of the paper at the base of the bag was punched with my Scallop Boarder Punch....I think it's difficult to see on screen. The Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon is also retired, but there is a newer version now...but I don't have that. Can't really seem to purchase it with this still sitting in my collection of STUFF! This ribbon is luscious....I'll be so sad to use up the last of it! (I'm really giving it a gallent try to reduce my retired supply!)

The cute little tag is mostly new things....the layered circles (created with the 1 3/8" & 1 1/4" Circle Punches and layered onto a punchout from the Snowflake Punch. Yes, the eyelet....in Bashful Blue (gotta love how everything coordinates!!) IS retired...so is the Silver Cord used to tie it to the bag. Don't you love it? So easy to replace this patterned paper with something in YOUR collection....definitely with something current!! Think background papers......

And here's one last card from the box....it's actually the very last one made for each tin. Simple and easy, but so cute. The retired Orchid Opulence was used for the card base, but can easily be changed out for whatever color strikes your fancy. I have to admit, that I've always loved Whisper White with Orchid Opulence and a touch of Basic Black...which is the color combo for this simple card. The flowers were simply stamped 3 times and then the stitching was added.

See the black punch out in the center, above and below the flower strip? None other than the Decorative Label Punch, which was cut in half and mounted to the back of the flower strip before adding to the card. Once mounted, it still needed a little something, so the little white dots were added with my White Gel Pen, and the BLING was created with Basic Rhinestones (medium size) was added to the center of each flower!

See? I told you it was easy to make this one! Oh, and I need to mention that this was inspired (but not the same) by the fun little sample on Page 98 of the SU catalog. It was just adapted to what I happen to have in my stamp collection.

Stamps: Vintage Vogue, Thank You Kindly
Inks: Orchid Opulence, Basic Black
CS: Orchid Opulence, Basic Black, Whisper White
Misc: Basic Rhinestones, Basic Black Marker, White Gel Pen, Decorative Label Punch

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!!

Just a Note....

2011-08-24T18:00:00.003-04:00

I met with my Stamp Club ladies recently. We always make 3 projects together....usually 2 are cards and the third is something 3D and simple to make. This was our 3D project from the other night....it's an "oldie, but a goodie." They LOVED this idea....THEY didn't know this idea has been around!

With school about to begin (in NJ, we usually begin right around Labor Day), there's lots of things for busy Moms to remember...and in my house, small pads of paper, or Post-It pads seem to develop legs and walk away! By putting the Post-It pads onto an easel, they tend to stay put and be there when you need them. It seems these ladies understood that concept perfectly...could it be that my house is not the only home where this phenomenon happens?!!

Can you tell what the easel is? It's an inexpensive acrylic easel-type 5x7 frame!....it's just turned the opposite direction so that the Post-Its are down and the "stand" is what is giving it elevation....Am I explaining that clearly?

Anyway, the stamp used for the background is a new Al La Carte, single stamp, called Triple Treat Flower. (Item #122909; Page #18) So fun! Matches a few of our punches. The background is Crumb Cake and the flower was stamped in Wild Wasabi. Then the image was stamped twice more, once in Pool Party onto Whisper White and again in Calypso Coral onto Crumb Cake. The 5-Petal Flower Punch was used to punch out the Pool Party/Whisper White flower; and the 1/2" Round Punch was used to punch out the little circle flower in the center. Can you see the little dot of white in the very, very center of each flower? A fun little touch with the White Gel Pen.

The word, "Notes" was computer generated....I was lucky enough to easily match up the color to the ink! This was punched out using the Large Oval Punch and layerd onto the framed background. I'm loving this color combo....on my screen, it just doesn't look nearly as pretty as it does in real life; hope it looks better on yours.

Stamps: Triple Treat Flower, Four Frames
Inks: Wild Wasabi, Calyso Coral, Pool Party
CS: Crumb Cake, Wild Wasabi
Punches: 5-Petal Flower, 1/2" Round Punch, Decorative Label Punch
Misc: Sticky Strip, White Gel Pen

Thanks so much for stopping by today and visiting!!

Here They Are....Card Tins!

2011-08-23T22:53:00.003-04:00

As I mentioned yesterday in this post, I've been busy, busy, busy stamping away to create 6 card tins filled with cards....which is why I haven't been posting here lately. I've been consumed with creating and making these tins and filling them with cards (all created in my spare time around Convention and vacation, of course!). 3 are for an order I received, 2 are for gifts I will give....giving me 1 extra, which I'm sure I'll use with the upcoming holiday season, if not before!

Also mentioned that I've been on a mission to use up some of my rather plentiful stash....I have so much DSP and cardstock that has retired....it's TIME for some to be used! So, these tins, although almost entirely SU product, much has retired.......in fact, I have so much retired DSP, that I feel guilty taking advantage of the GREAT special SU now has going on.....Buy 3 packages of any Designer Series Paper and receive a 4th package of your choice FREE! How great is that?!! Details are here, but this special is only till the end of August.

This tin, I have to say is my favorite...or should I say favorites, since I created doubles. When I first put on the paper and then added the ribbon, it was really rather drab. The paper is pretty enough, but really needed some punch! So, I pulled out some retired Ruby Red CS and that was just what this box needed! That flower was created with a Big Shot die that is also retired....each layer was sponged, also in Ruby Red, and a Green Round Crystal Brad was added in the center. The leaves were created using the Large Oval Punch, folding each oval in half, trimming one end to a point, put through the crimper and then sponged. Oh, and the word, "Cards" was created using a Cuttlebug alphabet that I've had for way longer than I've had my Big Shot!

Next up is this cute daisy tin.....again, lots of retired stuff here. And, as you'll notice, the layout is exactly the same....actually, all 6 have the same layout. It just made life easier to create the same thing with different papers. I just matched the flowers to the papers, so they are all different. Here, I simply used the Daisy Die (LOVE it!!), added in a Build A Brad and some leaves created with a non-SU leaf die that I recently purchased off of a clearance rack in a craft store. Since the letters were each punched using scraps, I found some Bashful Blue scraps that were stamped with the now-retired Sanded Background stamp. I only make one of this particular design.

Next.....(can you tell I was having fun with all these flowers?!!) is this box with the ruffled flower. This one is fun and so easy....I learned how to make them from this tutorial, posted by my friend, Lynn. This box...which, again, I made in duplicate....was really easy. I've always loved this DSP and was hoarding it....now it's all used up; there is no more! The flower and letters are in Riding Hood Red; the leaves are in Kiwi Kiss (have just a bit left!).

And this is the last one....the supply of this DSP is now dwindling as well. For the flower on this one, I used the Fun Flowers Die...but, I have to admit that this is the second flower created for this box. The first was created with Rose Red and Regal Rose layers and each layer was impressed with various embossing folders. WAAAY too busy with the background paper, so I simplified by changing 2 of the layers out to Whisper White and lightly sponging the very edges of each petal. The Regal Rose layer was from the original flower. I'm so much happier with this color flower!

So....what do you think? As you can see, I left the tops of each of the tins plain, which I believe works. Decorating the tops is a time-consuming process, and when left blank, it makes you focus on the box itself. I really love the way each one of these turned out....so, when I e-mailed photos of the boxes to my customer asking which 3 she wanted, she couldn't decide...she's leaving it up to me! A difficult decision, to be sure!!

I haven't listed all the supplies for these boxes, as I mentioned above, most have retired, but you could easily switch out any of the papers and/or flowers to fit what YOU have in your own personal collection. If you have any questions, please drop me a line!

Oh.....when I was first commissioned to make these boxes, I looked everywhere on the internet and couldn't find these tins anywhere! Well, yesterday, I rec'd a popular craft magazine and these tins are once more available. So, if you want to know where you can find them, just ask, and I'll be happy to share that info privately.

Whew! This was a long post! Hope this explains why....and makes up for my most recent absence. As always......

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

Edited to add: If you have any questions, please e-mail me so I can get back to you!

Busy Stamping Away......

2011-08-22T09:20:00.006-04:00

It's been awhile....where has the time gone?!! I cannot believe that it's been a few weeks since my last post... BUT, I have some eye candy for you today!

I had an order for some cards.....you see back in late June, I needed a quick thank you gift, so I took some cards out of my stash and threw them in a lunch box tin that I decorated and wrapped it all up really pretty. Well, she loved it so much she ordered THREE! Each with 12 cards. Well, as I said in the title to this article, I've been busy stamping away!!

Well, those tins are no longer available for purchase.....I had two in my stash, but put out a plea to some of my sister demos and found another four, so I bought them all from her. That gave me six gifts.....so I made six sets. The outsides are all different....I'll share them soon, but the contents are all the same. I'm on a mission to use up a lot of my retired stock and some of the stuff in my stash that has been collecting dust for way too long! So, although I'll give you the information on these samples, much of what I've used has retired.

This card on the right is one of the cards in each of the box sets and uses the long-retired Vintage Violet and the matching ribbon. (You see?....I have stuff from long ago that really needs to be used!) Simple layout...the background layer features a Cuttlebug folder that is one of the first I ever purchased....before SU came out with their own.

The stamps are definitely current SU....the greeting is from one of my favorite word sets, Short & Sweet and punched out with the Word Window Punch. The focal point image is from Pocket Silhouettes....a set that has been neglected. This was one of the featured sets at Convention in July....this particular image was a silhouette on the stage. It really is a great image and I've fallen in love with it all over again!

The little spray of leaves was simply stamped onto a square of Almost Amethyst (remember when that was one of my favorite colors?!!....yup! Still have some of the cardstock!) Then graduated squares of Vintage Violet and Whisper White were layered over top, but had the circle punched with the 1 3/4" Circle Punch....these layers were adhered together and then popped up on Dimensionals before being added over the Almost Amethyst layer. Inside the card, there's a simple layer of Whisper White cardstock, so that a message can be easily added....and read!

Stamps: Pocket Silhouettes, Short & Sweet

Inks: Vintage Violet

CS: Vintage Violet, Almost Amethyst, Whisper White

Misc: 1 3/4" Circle Punch, Vintage Violet Ribbon, Cuttlebug Embossing Folder, Dimensionals

Here's another card that was included.....and probably one of my favorites. The two I'm sharing today are cards that I've created and are my original ideas, I think. (They may look similar to others seen online....I do a lot of crusin' around the internet looking at ideas, so they were probably inspired by things I've seen!) This card has all current SU product. (What was I thinking?!!)

Element of Style is the set used here, in Chocolate Chip on Very Vanilla...this gives the card such a classic look, don't you think? The greeting is from the set called Oval All, another neglected set. The stamp is just the perfect match to those flower branches and added to this card, it's just right for those cards when you need to drop someone a note to let them know you were thinking of them. The textured Very Vanilla layer was put through the Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder in my Big Shot....the perfect touch!

Stamps: Element of Style, Oval All

Inks: Chocolate Chip

CS: Very Vanilla, Chocolate Chip

Misc: Big Shot, Vintage Wallpaper EF, Large Oval Punch, Scallop Oval Punch, Dimensionals

Those are the only two individual cards I will be sharing from the gift tins. The other cards are all CASEd ideas, and they've already been shared elsewhere online....since I needed 12 different cards for each tin, it was just easier to copy. Obviously, I cannot take credit for them! But, here you can see all of them spread around. This is just one set! The cards are all lovely (IMHO!!) and I'm very pleased with the finished projects.....come back soon and I'll share the tins. Oh....the front center items in this group photo show the index cards. I've matched the tabs in each set to the flowers on the outside of each box/tin.

(This set is for a close friend's birthday....she is receiving a few extra cards in her set.)

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Things With Wings

2011-08-07T23:49:00.000-04:00

This card was created a couple of months ago and was inspired by a card creation in Stampin' Success....a fabulous, full-color magazine available only to demonstrators.. This publication is a wonderful resource full of lots of terrific artwork, business tips, and product ideas....another GREAT reason to become a demonstrator!! (How do you think we came up with all our ideas?!!)

Anyway, this is based on a card in the magazine a few months back, but I've changed it up a a bit. This sample was created for a Bloggers' Challenge a couple of months ago (for the Things With Wings Challenge), but I just hadn't had the chance to share it with all of you before now!

As you can see, the one stamp was used repeatedly across the base of the Whisper White square. Ink once, stamp twice....that's how the "shaded" look was created.....such an easy technique. Although I used Wild Wasabi Ink, the lighter color seemed to resemble Pear Pizzazz, so that's the color of the green background.

As you can see, I'm a fan of pinks and greens together, AND polka dots....that dotted ribbon is now retired, but seemed to go so well with the impressed background, which seemed to go with the stamped images! Isn' it fun?!! Here's the info:

Stamps: Pocket Silhouettes, Short & Sweet

Inks: Wild Wasabi

CS: Whisper White, Pear Pizzazz, Melon Mambo, Pink Pirouette

Big Shot: Dotted Embossing Folder (Non-SU), Beautiful Wings Embosslits

Misc: Scallop Trim Border Punch, Small Oval Punch (retired), Large Oval Punch, Melon Mambo Dotted Grosgrain Ribbon (retired), Basic Pearls, Mini Glue Dots (used to adhere butterflies), 5/16" Neutrals Brad in White

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

Bloggers' Challenge -- Embossing

2011-08-04T17:30:00.002-04:00

Sorry this is so late!! Things were crazy last week at work....and now I'm "playing" in Myrtle Beach, SC! Tried to get this posted before I left, but just plain ole' ran out of time. Happily, I have internet service (which was a big surprise...didn't think I'd have it at my sister's condo), so, here I am. Hopefully, you'll think this card sample is "better late than never!"

Embossing is what got me hooked on stamping.....you see, I was at a craft convention...it seems like a thousand years ago....and saw a woman emboss a cute little teddy bear in gold....ohhhh! It was like magic.....I sooooo wanted to learn to do that!

Thinking back, gold teddies are not what I'm into any more, but I still really love embossed cards....we've certainly come a very long way since those early days.....as you can see from my card this week, there are NO gold embossed teddy bears here! LOL Actually, this is another of my Convention swaps....and it fits perfectly with this week's Bloggers' theme. Our list "Mom," Lisa, gave us the Challenge this week....to emboss.

The flowers were embossed and then colored in using a color wash that I learned from Gretchen Barron's tutorial on her blog.....she is amazing. Be sure to check out her blog. After the flowers dried overnight, I cut each one out and added them to the card.

Hint: I usually emboss Basic Black Craft Ink with Clear Embossing Powder...keeps those stray dots away!

And, speaking of embossing....today dry embossing SOOOO popular! Check out the So Saffron layer....YUP!...dry embossed with my Vintage Wallpaper EF. So, this card covers 2 different types of embossing. A dozen years or so ago, I would have been happy learning how to re-create that gold teddy bear....never in my wildest dreams did I think we could go beyond that!

Stamps: Fabulous Florets, Word Play
Inks: Basic Black Craft, Chocolate Chip, Tangerine Tango, Daffodil Delight
CS: Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Tangerine Tango, So Saffron, Shimmery White
Big Shot: Tasteful Trim, Vintage Wallpaper EF, Scallop Circle #2 Die (used the larger of the 2), Little Leaves Sizzlet
Misc: Circle Scissor Plus, Basic Pearls, Aqua Brush, Clear EP

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Christmas in July!

2011-07-26T08:58:00.000-04:00

OK....are you noticing a theme here?!! It's HOT.....and I'm so ready to be past this heat wave. Oh, I know that the temperature....and the humidity....is supposed dip for the next day or so, but then the HOT and the humidity will be back. Maybe I shouldn't wish my life away, but I'm ready for Fall weather, which really is my favorite!

Last Friday night, I hosted a Christmas Card Class. I'm thinking that the heat kept most away, so, it turned out to be just one customer (after a few cancellations) and me. But that's OK because we still had fun and stamped some great cards....this is one of them, made with the brand-new, just-received-it-at-Convention set, Easy Events. It's a wonderful, all-purpose set.....it just may become my new go-to set. There were tons of amazing samples on the display boards at Convention for inspiration! Although my sample here is not really a CASE of anything I saw, it was definitely inspired by a few different things.

As you can see, the card base is simply Crumb Cake with a top fold. The Cherry Cobbler layer was impressed with the Big Shot and the Elegant Lines EF.....so pretty! This was all topped off with the scallop circle, which is really the larger of the 2 medallions from the Perfect Pennants Bigz Die.....so perfect behind the 2 1/2" Circle Punch layer. And of course, this is all topped off with the Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon at the top.

Oh! I need to tell you how I colored in the image!! Simple! Markers.....Pear Pizzazz for the leaves and Cherry Cobbler for the berries. Then to really set the image off, a little stroke of Always Artichoke marker was used on each leaf, closest to the stem, and just a dot of the White Gel Pen on each berry. Made all the difference.....just these little touches seemed to make the image come alive!!

Since I had some extras cut and ready to go, I ended up making them all for me.....so now, I've begun MY Christmas cards as well....and now have a whole basketful! (I'll still need to make more....so be on the look-out for more Christmas Card Classes coming soon.) Bring on the COOL weather!

Stamps: Easy Events
Inks: Early Espresso
CS: Very Vanilla, Pear Pizzazz, Cherry Cobbler, Crumb Cake
Big Shot: Perfect Pennant Bigz Die, Elegant Lines EF
Misc: Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon, Dimensionals, Pear Pizzaz Marker, Cherry Cobbler Marker, Always Artichoke Marker, White Gel Pen

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

The Weather Outside is Frightful......

2011-07-25T10:02:00.001-04:00

I'm in! It's been such a long time since I've participated, but you may remember that my buddy, MaryJo has an awesome sketch challenge every week. Well, it has quieted down for just a bit the last few days and I was able to squeeze in a card with her sketch. Guess I'm way out of practice, because this one gave me a bit of trouble but as you can see, I managed to come up with something that is blog-worthy. (Yes, I know!....that's why it's called a CHALLENGE!!)

And, YES, the weather outside IS frightful...frightfully HOT!! Although I have to admit the temperature dropped a bit today, but the humidity didn't. Stay outside for just a few minutes and you'll feel like a wet dish rag! YUK! So, even though we were all looking forward to Springtime and Summer weather for so long, I for one, am ready for Fall! So, out came one of my very favorite Fall sets, Autumn Splendor. It's perfect for this week's sketch.

Looking at my sample now, I kind of wish that I had made those strips under the leaves a bit more narrow, but that's not what I did....there's no time to re-do. So, this is it!

I have to admit that not all of this is from SU and the DSP has retired.....the DSP that I used for the strips is from a retired hostess DSP pack....in Always Artichoke. The embossing folder that I used has been in my collection for some time, but is not too different from the brand new Houndstooth EF (Item #123134) in the brand new SU catalog! (The SU version is just a bit larger so that it will do the entire front of a card....the one I own does not. So sad....that new folder is absolutely on my wish list!!

As you can see the impressions are two-toned. I brayered the folder with Cajun Craze ink and then added in the cardstock and sent it through the Big Shot. Love that look! The leaves are popped up on Dimensionals. The saying is not from SU....I was looking for something tiny that would fit in an oval or small circle....that stamp has also been in my collection for a few years! And lastly, the small oval that was used to punch out the greeting has also retired and has been replaced by another Small Oval (Item #120908)but is a different shape....a bit taller and not quite as wide. I don't think it will nest inside of the Large Oval like the old one did....but, it looks like it will be fun to use!

So that's it for me today. You can see MaryJo's sketch here.....and see who's playing along this week.

Stamps: Autumn Splendor, non-SU Greeting
Inks: Cajun Craze, Early Espresso, Peach Parfait, Cherry Cobbler, Pear Pizzazz, Always Artichoke
CS: Cajun Craze, Very Vanilla, Peach Parfait
Big Shot: Houndstooth EF (non-SU version)
Misc: Dimensionals, Sponges, Hostess Pack DSP (retired), Brayer, Small Oval Punch (retired), Large Oval Punch (I trimmed it down)

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

A Little Gratitude

2011-07-23T23:31:00.001-04:00

I made this earlier today for a very special lady......the daughter of a good friend who put together our trip 2 months ago to Ireland. My bad! I never even sent her a thank you note...and everyone around here knows me as "the card lady!!" How bad am I?!! Truthfully, I'm usually a lot better than I was this time, but I came home sick, had just started a new job before I left, and it took me awhile to catch up....in all that chaos, I simply forgot. That explains, but doesn't excuse!! It really is embarassing that it took so long for me to do this for her.

Anyway, tonight was her family Christmas in July party....complete with Santa, presents, a tree and even Christmas carols...the whole nine yards. Well, almost....we also had hamburgers and hot dogs, potato salad, etc....typical BBQ food....out in the back yard in the heat....just a sultry 97 degrees tonight! And the gifts....well, the theme was "the worst thing you can find in your attic." Lots of really tacky stuff all wrapped up pretty! Truthfully, it IS fun. Well, since I saw her tonight, I really, really needed to bring her a thank you.

So, I picked up a gift certificate to slip inside this card as a small thank you from hubby and I....you see, she arranged our tour of Ireland, even though that is no longer what she really does with the company she works at. (She is in some type of management liason position, so she really went out of her way for us and set up a really fabulous trip for us. )

THIS is the card I created to go with the gift certificate....it's not a gift card holder, just a card with a gift card enclosed. This is definitely a CASE, not my original idea, it was changed up using what I had in my collection. Don't you just love that new Lace Border Punch on either side of the stamped layer?!! As you can see, the stamp used was colored in using markers to give it the multi-colored look. I'm really just so happy that Day of Gratitude is in the brand new catalog!! YIPEE! And guess what?!!.....the Big Shot was NOT used to make this card! I KNOW! Can you believe it????? (I was beginning to think I couldn't make a card without it!)

Stamps: Day of Gratitude, Warmest Wishes (retired), En Francais
Inks: Early Espresso
CS: Early Espresso, Very Vanilla, Old Olive, Peach Parfait
Markers: Cajun Craze, Old Olive, Early Espresso
Misc: Linen Thread, Doted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, Lace Ribbon Border Punch, Cutter Kit (for distressing), Paper Piercer & Template

Thank you so much for stopping by and visiting today!

Sunglasses Needed!

2011-07-21T20:16:00.004-04:00

This one is B-R-I-G-H-T....but, I'm loving the way it turned out! This week's Blogger's Challenge theme (it's good to be back!) is SUMMERTIME! Much of the country is HOT and that means we're all trying to stay as cool as possible....so flip flops are everywhere. (Check this link here.....I decorated some the other day....did you see them?)

Right now, SU has an adorable summer set available in the Summer Mini catalog, Sunny Fun, with flip flops, ice cream, and swimmers....but I don't have that. What I do have is this cute little flip flop stamp (non-SU), which I picked up a few years back at a craft store. This is the first time I've used it....how cute, right?!! Hmmm...wonder what I was waiting for!!

I've set aside and packed up for a cards class that will take place this evening and I really didn't want to dip into those supplies, so I felt a little limited working with whatever was left in my stamp studio. This card didn't come out quite the way I might have normally made it, but I've fallen in love with it. Maybe I should try packing up many of my supplies more often, huh?!!

The card size is unusual for me....used the Scallop Square die for the card base. I've been dying (pun intended!) to try this for a long time and this was the perfect card to try it with. Just fold the cardstock in half and lay it in the die so that the one side doesn't cut away. Then just the cardfront was placed in the Perfect Polka Dots EF....the perfect match to those cute little summer sandals! Speaking of the flip flops, check out the flower centers.....added the Flower Brads in the center in Daffodil Delight, which matches the card base and a Basic Rhinestone was added in the center of each....I believe I used the mid-size. The ribbon on the side is now retired, but still matches the polka dot theme going on here.....in Melon Mambo. A bit of Tempting Turquoise sets it all off. So, now I'm dressed for the weather....just trying to stay cool.

Stamps: Flip Flops--non SU, Short & Sweet
Inks: Melon Mambo, Tempting Turquoise
CS: Daffodil Delight, Whisper White, Tempting Turquoise
Big Shot: Scallop Square Die, Perfect Polka Dots EF, Scallop Squares Duo
Misc: Flower Brads in Daffodil Delight, Basic Rhinestones, Melon Mambo Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (retired), Word Window Punch, Dimensionals (under flip flops)

This post also fits the Challenge over on Hand Stamped Sentiments....haven't played along with them in a long time! Be sure to hop on over and check out their blog, too!

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

Another Convention Swap!

2011-07-20T19:22:00.000-04:00

This one was such fun to make....but, as you can see, there's not much stamping going on! But, the Big Shot AND various punches were plentiful!! Super simple, cheerful, and kinda bright. The ladies who swapped with me seemed to really like this one. Although I cannot claim this original idea as my own, it is really a compilation of a few ideas I've seen floating around.

So, how did I create this? Well the packages are simply squares created with the 1 1/4" Square Punch and run through the Big Shot in the Perfect Polka Dot Embossing Folder. And those little "bows" on top?....they are none other than the flower from the Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch...the flowers were simply cut in half. The Basic Rhinestones just set everything off....the mid size was used.

The red zig zag was created by using the Tasteful Trim Bigz Die.....the perfect solution when you might be limited on the right color ribbon (which I was)! This was the only really tricky part to making this card....gluing the zig zag strip down. Found that if I used dabs of our Multi Purpose Liquid Glue along the back the strip stayed where it should......you see, I tried the 2-Way Glue Pen, and they simply fell off; and SNAIL made a mess since the strip is so narrow.

The opening in the yellow card background was created by using the Curly Label Mover & Shaker....just place the shape in the bottom corner of the metal plate and roll through. It even gives you the stitched outline for a little more fun! AFTER creating the window, I stamped the greeting and added another Basic Rhinestone....this time one of the smallest size....to the star/dot over the "I." So fun, right?!!

Stamps: Word Play
Inks: Tempting Turquoise
CS: Whisper White, Daffodil Delight, Real Red, Tempting Turquoise
Big Shot: Tasteful Trim, Curly Label Mover & Shaker, Perfect Polka Dots EF
Misc: Basic Rhinestones, Multi Purpose Liquid Glue, Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch

Thank you so much for stopping by and visiting today!

Sweet Little Flip Flops

2011-07-19T00:00:00.001-04:00

Not sure how it is where you live, but here it is HOT!...and hot weather means flip flops are now my favorite shoes! These are some I picked up somewhere last year in a clearance bin. When I saw them, I just knew I could fancy them up, which is exactly what I recently did. So quick....so easy!

Just ran some fun foam sheets in white through my Big Shot, using the Daisy Die, and added a now-retired Corduroy Button in Summer sun. The most difficult part was attaching to the sandals. I tried Glue Dots....nope, they fell right off! Then I tried Crystal Effects.....well, they stayed on longer, but still fell off. So, then I got out my trusty Crop-a-Dile and made a hole and pushed the "feet" of the buttons (they were really like big brads) through the hole and then pulled out a pair of pliers to really bend the feet up so they didn't bother me while wearing them. Aren't this just so FUN?!! Well, since I now had them perfected, I was off and running!

Just a few days before I left for Convention, I was shopping in one of the big box stores and found bins of plain flip flops for just $1 each....so, you KNOW I went home with a bunch! The next 2 pair I made for my Convention Roommate....she loved them! Again, fast and easy! This first pair were secured to the strap of the flip flop by punching 2 holes, again with the Crop-a-Dile and then tying with Whisper White Baker's Twine....LOVE that stuff! This time, I used the Fun Flowers Bigz Die....can you see that the orange layer has been impressed by using my Square Lattice Embossing Folder? Really changes the feel of the Fun Foam, but works like a charm!! I was going to use a real button, but didn't have the right color, so instead, there is a faux button created by using the Sweet Buttons Embosslit.

That pair came together so quickly, that I decided to create another pair for her.....this time using the Beautiful Butterflies Bigz Die. Both layers were put through embossing folders, but in this case, neither is a SU embossing folder. To secure the butterflies, a pair of Antique Brads were used and a medium size Basic Pearl was added to the center. The last photo shoes a close up so that you can really see the impressions made by the embossing folders.

(The close up photo has some shadows in it....sorry for the poor quality. It almost looks like I've shaded with ink.....no ink was used in these projects.)

I'm not going to add a materials list because I've already mentioned everything used above. I hope I've inspired you to create some new sandals of your own....if you decide to make some, please share and if you have any questions, please let me know!

Thanks for stopping by today!!

Convention Swaps are Here!

2011-07-16T00:38:00.000-04:00

Hello! I'm here in Salt Lake City at the SU Convention! As always, it is fabulous!! Lots to learn, lots to see, new products to hear all about, lots of great ideas.....wait till you see some of the great new stuff coming our way! But, the best part? Seeing and meeting with so many friends. You see, there are lots of online friends that I only get to see here! So, I'm here in Salt Lake with about 3,000 of my "closest" stamping friends! LOL Really, tho, I am here with people that I really love to be with....and stamping with them. It just doesn't get better than that!

So, I've shown you a couple of swap card that I've made that didn't come with me....maybe you'd like to see what I brought to swap? This is the first of the 4 different ones made. Doesn't it looks complicated? Believe me, when I tell you that it is E-A-S-Y!! Honest! Here's how......

Simply stamp the floral spray in Wild Wasabi onto a piece of Whisper White CS. Then decorate with the punched flowers. They were created using the little flower punch from the Itty Bitty Punch Pack....in Pink Pirouette, Pretty in Pink, and Regal Rose. Just a little dab of SNAIL on back of each flower is all that is needed. Then pass it through the Big Shot using the Square Lattice EF.....haven't seen me use that one in awhile, have you?!! Yes, it's STILL a favorite! The remainder of the card should be easy for you to understand.....but one last thing I need to share is that the very last step should be to add the pearls. Believe me when I tell you that it's just so much easier to add them last then to try to adhere that whole section with the pearls already added....ask me how I learned this!!

Stamps: Thoughts & Prayers
Inks: Wild Wasabi
CS: Wild Wasabi, Whisper White, Pink Pirouette, Pretty in Pink, Regal Rose
Big Shot: Square Lattice EF
Misc: Pinking Hearts Border Punch, Itty Bitty Punch Pack, Basic Pearls

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

I Stink You're Sweet

2011-07-10T20:32:00.002-04:00

This set, Pun Fun, has just retired.....it has the cutest images! Oh!....I'm going to miss it....I think. You see, although this set is no longer available, SU has replaced it with another set that is versatile and just as wonderful, but the images, of course, are different. (Check out Easy Events, Item #116958(Wood) or #123225 (ClearMount), on Page #57.) BUT, I promised my 10 year old niece a card and this little stamp was just the perfect thing!!

You see, she's now a junior stamper and has sent me a couple cards, so I really needed to send her one, too! Not sure if she received it before leaving for vacation, but I hope she likes it. This is all SU, although much as been retired....the stamp, the background paper, the ribbon, and the Pure Color Pencils, are all gone, but not forgotten!

As you can see, it's the same layout I used for a recent swap and post.....this began with an entirely different idea, but as often happens, evolved into this. And, I'm loving it!!....you may be seeing this layout again before too long.

So, the deets....

Stamps: Pun Fun*
Inks: Basic Black
CS: Pretty in Pink, Basic Black, Whisper White
Big Shot: Perfect Pennants
Misc: 2 1/2" Circle Punch, Black Gingham Ribbon*, Pure Color Pencils*, Designer Series Paper Pack/Hostess in Regal Rose, Basic Pearls, Pretty in Pink & Certainly Celery Markers, Gamasol (non-SU)
*Retired

Thank you so much for stopping by today!

Bloggers' Challenge -- Floral Frenzy

2011-07-08T22:34:00.001-04:00

It just so happens that I was about to post this card and realized that it also fit this week's Bloggers' Challenge theme. You see, this was my swap card in the GoDiva swap group last month featuring new catalog items. I've said it before, but I really need to say again that the ladies that are a part of that group are so very talented and truthfully, I'm beyond astonished to be a part of stamping royalty....because that's what those ladies are! Since all participants received their swap cards last week, it's time to let you all in on a bit of what I've been up to.

The flowers shown here are from the new Hostess set, Simply Soft....a true 2-step stamp set. The outline of this flower were stamped in Basic Black, the second stamp fills in the flowers and was stamped in Wisteria Wonder, one of the fabulous new In Colors now available, and there's a dab of Dazzling Diamonds in the center, or on the stamen of each flower to just set it all off. Oh!...and check out that background! Is it not luscious?!!....I'm in love! A brand new Letterpress Plate, called Fancy Fan created this.....I inked it up with White Craft ink and sent it through my Big Shot.

Another new item used is the scallop circle....a new Bigz Die called Perfect Pennants. This new die has a couple cool medallion-type and 2 different sizes of pennants that can be rolled out. For this card, the medallion is the perfect backdrop of the punched circle.

Hope you'll join me in checking out the blogs of all those that join in our Challenge this week. You won't be sorry.....also a talented group!

Stamps: Simply Soft
Inks: White Craft, Basic Black, Wisteria Wonder
CS: Whisper White, Elegant Eggplant, Pear Pizzazz
Big Shot: Fancy Fan Letterpress Plate, Perfect Pennants Bigz Die
Misc: 2 1/2" Circle Punch, Dotted Ribbon Scallop Border Punch, Pear Pizzazz Marker, Whisper White Taffeta, 2-Way Glue Pen, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Bold Summer Blossoms

2011-07-08T12:00:00.001-04:00

This card is from about a month ago....you see, I made it for one of MaryJo's Challenges, #177 to be exact. I made it late in the week and then ran out of time to post it....then I got sick, life got in the way, computer died, had oral surgery, blah, blah, blah....... Anyway, I'm kind of partial to this little card....and thought it was about time to share! Made with a fun Summer Mini Catalog set, Bold Blossoms. (NOT included in the new SU catalog, so it won't be around too much longer.)

There are a few retired items on this card.....the greeting, which is an older, long-gone hostess set; the ribbon, which was current back when Riding Hood Red was an In Color; and the mini brads, which are Ruby Red and seem to match perfectly! SU brads are the best because even when they are supposed to be a certain color, they seem to match so much more!....anyway, all those items are now retired.

A bit of texture and lots of punching going on here......the background was created with the Perfect Polka Dots EF. I'm just so happy that that one is still around....it's just perfect (pun intended!! LOL) with so many things. The flowers were created with the fabulous, Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch, the 3/4" Circle Punch, and the little 4-petal punch from the Bitty Shapes Punch Pack....and, of course, a mini brad. The butterfly was simply stamped, cut out and placed on a Dimensional. Don't those colors just scream summertime?!!

Stamps: Bold Blossom, Warm Wishes*
Inks: Old Olive, Riding Hood Red
CS: Whisper White, Daffodil Delight, Peach Parfait
Big Shot: Perfect Polka Dots EF
Misc: Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon*, Cherry Cobbler/White Baker's Twine, Dimensionals, Modern Label Punch, Bitty Shapes Punch Pack, Paper Piercer & Template
*Retired

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

One-Layer Swap

2011-07-07T16:00:00.004-04:00

Last month I participated in a swap with an online group. Fun ladies, and so very talented! The challenge was to create a card using just ONE LAYER. Hmmm! Sounded like fun...but wasn't quite as easy as I had thought it would be....but, I persevered, and this is what I came up with.

As you can see, the card is Whisper White and the bottom portion of the cardfront was impressed with the Perfect Polka Dots EF. Next, I stamped the trees from Trendy Trees...hadn't used that one in a long time! Happy to say, that it's in the new catalog. Next, I created a rectangular mask from scrap paper and sponged over the trees and then outlined with a Early Espresso Marker. The greeting was added and then the ribbon.

What do you think? For a simple card with no layers, it has a lot going on, don't you think?!! Why not try making a one-layer card today?...and don't forget to share!

Stamps: Trendy Trees, Fabulous Phrases
Inks: Old Olive, Early Espresso, Certainly Celery (for sponging behind trees)
CS: Whisper White
Big Shot: Perfect Polka Dots EF
Misc: Sponge, 1 3/8" Square (for creating rectangle in scrap paper), Early Espresso Marker, Wide Old Olive Grosgrain*, Crop-a-Dile (for creating hole for the one-hand "bow"
*Retired

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Another Convention Reject

2011-07-06T23:40:00.000-04:00

It's good to be on my computer again! You see, I've been missing because my computer suddenly decided to be uncooperative about 1.5 weeks ago and I've been without ever since! Boy, can I tell you how disconnected I felt?!!

But, being without a computer gave me extra time to stamp; and with Convention fast approaching, I really needed to spend time stamping away on my swaps! This is another reject. Although I liked it, it just didn't send me. It's OK, but something seemed to be lacking. I am happy to say, that I did come up with the much-needed designs that I will be sure to share soon. But in the meantime, I have a few other goodies to show you....this is one of them.

You see, I was invited into a swap group about 2 years ago....and these ladies are truly amazing! They give creativity a whole new definition!!...and they make me really branch out creatively as a result. So, this is one I came up with in trying to design my swap for this fabulously talented group. Nice, but in this case, not great.

This showcases the brand-new Hostess stamp set, Simply Soft, a true traditional 2-step set...and it's flowers! What's not to love?!!....IMHO, this is the must-have set this year!! This was stamped onto a round piece of Whisper White that had the faux Mother of Pearl technique....see that background? So easy and fun! Simply scrunch a small piece of Saran and dab it into a very small amount of Frost White Shimmer Paint and then dab onto the Whisper White paper and allow to dry...this doesn't take very long. Then stamp over top.

Lots of new goodies used here...see below for the deets:

Stamps: Simply Soft, Happiest Birthday Wishes
Inks: Basic Black, Chocolate Chip, Bashful Blue
CS: Whisper White, Soft Suede, Bashful Blue, Marina Mist
Big Shot: Fancy Fan Impression Plate, Scallop Circle #2
Misc: Frost White Shimmer Paint, Circle Scissor Plus, Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch

As always, Thank You so much for stopping by today!

Convention Swap Reject

2011-06-22T22:21:00.000-04:00

Well....the SU Convention is about 3 weeks away! You know what that means, don't you? It's time to make swaps! YIKES....not much time left! I'm so excited to be able to attend this year!!

I will be participating in 2 group swaps and not the general swap....the ladies in each of these groups make the most amazing swap cards. They are ALL so gifted, talented, and creative. I need 3 different swap ideas; 2 swap card ideas are already planned out....I'm in need of a 3rd idea. Last night I was working on ideas and came up with this.

Do you recognize the clouds? How about the basket of the hot air balloon? They are both punched using the Cupcake Builder punch; the basket was also stamped using the Build a Cupcake stamp set....both will be in the new catalog. I do have to credit one of my stamping idols, Julie Buhler with this balloon idea....she is incredibly creative. When I saw this "out of the box" idea, I just knew that somehow I'd need to use it! So, this is adapted from her original idea.

But, I realized something about half way through making this card.....it takes WAY TOO LONG to make one, never mind enough for a swap! I think I'd need much, much more time than I have to make enough!! So, it's back to the drawing board...which is why this sample is a "Convention Swap Reject." In the meantime, this will be put aside for a graduation card....this will be perfect for that, I think!

Stamps: Trendy Trees (balloon), Word Play
Inks: Certainly Celery (sponged on the "hills"), Bashful Blue (sponged on the clouds), Pacific Point, Read Red, Crumb Cake (basket)
CS: Whisper White, Pacific Point, Real Red, Certainly Celery, Real Red, Bashful Blue
Big Shot: Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder, Scallop Circle #2, Tasteful Trim
Misc: Bashful Blue Grosgrain Ribbon, White Baker's Twine, Dimensionals, Paper Piercer, Curly Label Punch, 1 3/8" & 1 1/4" Round Punches, Dimensionals, Circle Scissor Plus, Cutter Kit

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Horray for Dads!

2011-06-19T01:46:00.001-04:00

It's been a very long while since I've posted.....lots of things have been going on (still adjusting to my job and the hours, vacation, life....). I've missed sharing with you. So, in honor of Dad's Day, I thought it was definitely time to begin posting again!

This card is a variation of one I did with my Stamp Club ladies last month, and is the one I sent my partner in a one-on-one challenge/swap in an online group I belong to. The Club ladies loved this, hopefully my swap partner liked it as well!

This set is just so fabulous for masculine cards....something that I definitely have a difficult time with; and the ocean theme is perfect for Father's Day. Sadly, this wonderful set will NOT be included in the upcoming SU catalog. So, if you want it, you'll need to order yours before the Summer Mini Catalog expires (August 30, 2011).

To color in the ship and ocean, I used my chalk pastels....they really needed to be dusted off! No special technique for coloring in, but to create the "ocean" look, I simply tore a scrap piece of paper and sponged the pastel color off the edge and then moved the paper and repeated the same step over and over again. The Cherry Cobbler background was simply stamped randomly with the anchor image in Whisper White Craft Ink. The same ink was also used to sponge the edges of the Cherry Cobbler layer as well as the Marina Mist layers. Finally, the layers were wrapped with white Bakers' Twine, which you can find in the Mini; and the button was added. I really like these colors together, and am very happy with the way this card turned out.....what do you think?

Stamps: The Open Sea, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Inks: Basic Black, Whisper White Craft
CS: Sahara Sand, Marina Mist, Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White
Misc: Whisper White Bakers' Twine, Pastels, Sponge, Designer Label Punch, Button

Thank you for your continued patience and for stopping by and making your visit a part of your day. I have lots more to share...please come back soon!

Have a Cup of Tea

2011-05-03T19:11:00.001-04:00

This week's sketch from MaryJo was a fun one....I had an idea, which of course is so very different than what you see here! But, I'm loving the way this came out!! (And you may still see the other idea pop up here at some point.) The problem has been trying to find time to create my sample and post for you to see!

This little tea cup is a single stamp that I earned during Sale-a-Bration....and it really needed to see some ink. So, today was the day! I took my que for colors from the lovely, dainty bone china tea cups you might see at a tea house. Although I'm not so sure that you would consider this tea cup delicate, it is cute, don't you think? The ribbon background picks up the colors of each stamped tea cup image, and uses ribbon scraps. Fun and easy....and quick!

Stamps: Tiny Teacup
Inks: Pear Pizzazz, Daffodil Delight, Marina Mist, Regal Rose
CS: Whisper White, Pear Pizzazz, Marina Mist, Daffodil Delight
Misc: Ribbon Scraps (Wide Regal Rose Grosgrain, 3/8" Whisper White Taffeta, 1/8" Marina Mist & Daffodil Delight Taffeta, 1/2" Stitched-Poly Ribbon in Pear Pizzaz)

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Color This! (Rose-Blue-Green)

2011-05-03T18:51:00.001-04:00

This one gave me a LOT of trouble!! The Challenge this past Friday was to use Rose, Green, and Blue. Well, I'm really not a pink & blue gal....it reminds me of baby cards.....and, while I like baby cards, I'm not very good at using those colors for other occasions.

This is the sample I came up with.....not entirely sure how I feel about it. The Rose is at the bottom of the card (impressed with the Vintage Wallpaper EF) and also used for coloring in the darker parts of the flowers. The Green was used for the leaves and stems. The Blue....well, that's where the trouble began! I decided to downplay it and used it only for the cute little butterfly and for the crystal brad in the center of the bow. I think this works.....I'd love it if you let me know what YOU think!

Stamps: Elements of Style
Inks: Basic Black
CS: Pirouette Pink (card base), Whisper White, Regal Rose
Markers: Regal Rose, Pink Pirouette, Certainly Celery, Pear Pizzazz
Misc: Pretty in Pink Satin Ribbon, Blue Crystal Brad, Beautiful Wings Embosslit, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Basic Pearls, Mini Glue Dots

I'm sorry this is so late.....but I want to
thank you so much for stopping by today!

Let's Go Shopping!

2011-04-27T12:00:00.001-04:00

Is this a fun card or what?!! So many of us love to go shopping...shopping for that bargain is part of the hunt...and often makes the trip so worth it. What is more perfect than a trio of purses? Do you recognize the elements of each purse? Can you see how they were made?

Well, they were made with the Create a Cupcake stamp set and the Build a Cupcake punch...both are in the current mini (Occasions Mini), which is about to expire on April 30, 2011!!....only a few days left to get these great items!! The body of each purse was created by stamping the base of the cupcake and punching it out....except for the center purse, which was simply punched from DSP. The fashioned by first punching the Small Oval Punch and then following up with the Large Oval Punch, cut each created oval in half and there you go!! (For reference, check out this post from long ago, just scroll down past the card....same principal applies.) The flap is simply a 3/4" circle punch, folded over top of the inverted cupcake bottom and the finishing touch is one of the Basic Rhinestones.

This is the card I used for my shoe box swap submission that I attended about 2 months ago. But, as you can see at the bottom of the photo, this idea was inspired by the uber-talented Carrie Gaskin, another of my stamping idols.

Stamps: Great Friend, Create a Cupcake
Inks: Early Espresso
CS: Pink Pirouette, Very Vanilla, Early Espresso
Misc: Build a Cupcake Punch, Small Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon, Dimensionals (under each "purse"), Basic Rhinestones, 3/4" Circle Punch, Framed Tulips EF, Big Shot, Designer Series Pack--In Colors/Hostess Level 1

Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of time with me today!!

MaryJo's Sketch #171

2011-04-26T16:21:00.003-04:00

Another sneak peak! This card, which follows MaryJo's sketch #171, uses a brand-new, about-to-be-released set called The Open Sea.....perfect for all those manly cards we need to make! I haven't purchased a set that is a good masculine set in a very long time and when I saw this, I knew it was a must have....AND you can purchase it from the new Summer Mini, which goes live this Sunday, May 1.

This week, I turned the sketch on its side. You can see the original sketch when you click on MaryJo's sample below in the Blog Hop thumbnails. The ship was simply stamped in Night of Navy and then I used my blender pen to bring the blue into the sails....it's a technique I've loved for years and is just so easy to do! As you can see the base of the card was dry embossed with my favorite folder, the Square Lattice EF and the Big shot. There's also a bit more on this card that will soon be available....the Baker's Twine. It's actually available in solid white, Cherry Cobbler and White (which is shown here), and Early Espresso and White....and at only $2.95 for 25 yards, it's a real bargain! Actually, the Cherry Cobbler blends well with the Riding Hood Red on this card. The button is now retired, but matches Riding Hood Red as well!

Stamps: The Open Sea
Inks: Night of Navy
CS: Whisper White, Night of Navy, Riding Hood Red
Misc: Button (retired), Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine, Ticket Corner Punch, Silver Mini Brads, Paper Piercer & Template, Blender Pen, Crop-a-dile (See holes at top of card? They are for wrapping and threading the twine through!)

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

Bloggers' Challenge -- Ribbon or Lace

2011-04-25T15:40:00.002-04:00

It was a busy, busy week....and with a holiday in there, it was just way too hectic to get this to you on time....and I am so sorry about that! Hope fully, you celebrated with family and friends this past weekend. The weather was lovely here, hopefully where you were, too!

So, here is my sample for last Friday's Challenge....a lot late! It gives you a peak at a cute little single stamp available in the Summer Mini Catalog, Hello Blossom. Cute, isn't it? (The mini goes live this Sunday!) The stamp actually has a letter in the center of each blossom spelling out "HELLO." As you can see, I've covered the letters up by using punched out circles, which are adhered using Mini Glue Dots and then covered over with Crystal Effects.

This card was fun to make and for my ribbon, I used the gathered ribbon. Like me, you've probably seen this technique in many places, but I have to admit it just isn't quite as easy as it appears to be! My gathering needs a bit more work since it really isn't even, so I definitely need some more practice! But it doesn't look too bad, does it?

Stamps: Hello Blossom, Bold Blossom
Inks: Soft Suede
CS: Soft Suede, Pink Pirouette, Pear Pizzazz
Misc: Pear Pizzazz & Regal Rose Markers, Pretty in Pink Satin Ribbon, Lots of Tags Sizzlet, Big Shot, Square Green Ice Brad, Non-SU Border Punch, 1/4" Round Punch (retired), Round Punch from Itty Bitty Punch Pack, Mini Glue Dots, Crystal Effects

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

MaryJo's Lunchtime Sketch #170

2011-04-17T22:59:00.002-04:00

After the tough time I had with last week's sketch, this one was a breeze....and fun! I used this set for my last post; and although I'm typically fairly good about putting things away after I use them, this was still on my desk top. (Don't be impressed...like most rubber stampers, my stamp studio is FAR from neat!....I tend to gather and add things into my small space by just dumping them in the closest semi-empty spot!)

Obviously, this card has a completely different look from my last post. Yes, the last post was a sketch challenge, as is this...both are very different, but so is the style. This set, Have a Seat, is so cool! I've had my eye on it since last summer when the catalog was released...now, I'm kind of sorry I waited so long to get it because I missed out on the fun of using it all that time!!

As you can see, the Marina Mist background was impressed by using the Square Lattice Embossing Folder in my Big Shot (what a shock....it's still my "go to" embossing folder!). Then for the Whisper White panel...again, as you can see....I stamped the chairs all over, creating a background paper-type pattern. The "banner" across the bottom is raised on Dimensionals. Anyway, the card is kinda simple, but I am happy with it...guess, it's more "my" style than the last vintage one I tried!

Stamps: Have a Seat, Curley Cute

Inks: Crumb Cake, Not Quite Navy

CS: Whisper White, Marina Mist, Crumb Cake, Not Quite Navy

Misc: Square Punch*, Dimensionals, Paper Piercer & Template, Not Quite Navy Mini Brads (Retired), Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch

Bloggers' Challenge -- April Sketch

2011-04-15T22:57:00.002-04:00

Truthfully, I had this one done before last night, but ran out of time to post this on time....I just started a new job recently and I'm having a bit of a tough time juggling my time and various activities. I bought this set a short time ago and it's been sitting neglected on my desk top, so I really wanted to incorporate Have a Seat into this week's Challenge. This week, Lisa gave us a great sketch.....I stayed very close to the original....didn't even turn it around!

The vintage look isn't something that comes easily for me, but I wanted to give it a whirl this time around......I'm pleased with the way it came out, although it isn't a style that will come naturally to me, I'm afraid!

As you can see, the bench-style seat stamp was used in the center of a piece of Very Vanilla and over stamped with the Sanded background stamp. The edges of this piece were sponged in Crumb Cake and distressed before being added to the Riding Hood Red and Basic Black Layers. This was then placed onto Dimensionals. The background of the card was texturized with a Texturz plate (Kit #4)....I haven't used them in such a loooong time! The background paper shown here is again from Love Letter...this package of paper just lends itself to so many looks! Not to mention that it is gorgeous!!

The ribbon is retired and no longer available, but when it was out I was so in love with it and afraid I'd never be able to get any more so I bought 2 rolls.....naturally, I still have some sitting around!...It's in Riding Hood Red and Very Vanilla. But, this time, the ribbon was cut in half length-wise and unraveled just a bit. The button shown is also retired from last year, but is in Riding Hood Red to match.

Stamps: Have a Seat, Sanded, Congrats (retired)

Inks: Basic Black, Crumb Cake

CS: Very Vanilla, Riding Hood Red, Basic Black

Misc: Texturz Plate (Kit #4), Big Shot, Button Bouquet (Retired), Linen Thread, Cutter Kit (for distressing), Linen Thread, Modern Label Punch, Love Letters DSP, Dimensionals, 1 1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon in Riding Hood Red (retired)

Thanks so much for stopping by today....hope you enjoyed your stay here!

MaryJo's Lunchtime Sketch

2011-04-11T21:11:00.004-04:00

This week's Challenge sketch was a very tough one...at least for me. This is what I came up with....not crazy about it, but then, to be honest, I'm not crazy about the sketch either. (Sorry, MJ!) But, after MANY trials and errors, I came up with something that is at least presentable! As you can see, I used some punches, the Big Shot (of course!), Linen Thread, and DSP. Those diagonal stripes across the card made it kind of busy, so too much DSP (which is how I began) was way too much! So, the Pumpkin Pie layer was added...or replaced....instead. Originally, I added little pennant flags "hanging" from the thread across...again, too much! (And I thought it was an ingenious idea!) Instead, I layered Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon over the Pumpkin Pie layer, topped with a zig-zag of Rose Red CS (created with my Big Shot and the Tasteful Trim Bigz Die) and tied over top with Linen Thread. Whew! At least now, each element can be seen and is not fighting for attention! That cute little cupcake showcases the Create a Cupcake set from the Spring Mini and the Build a Cupcake Punch...also from the Mini. These are placed upon a 2 1/2" Circle, a circle created from the Circles Die, and then "2 3/8" Scallop Punch.

What do you think? Is it too busy? Did I rise to the occasion? As I mentioned, I'm really not so sure about this one, so feedback would be great....I'd love to hear your comments! See?...this just goes to show that even those of us who stamp frequently struggle, too!

Stamps: Create a Cupcake

Inks: Pumpkin Pie, Rose Red, Pink Pirouette

CS: Whisper White, Pumpkin Pie, Rose Red

Misc: Tasteful Trim Bigz Die, Circles Die, Big Shot, Build a Cupcake Punch, 2 1/2" Round Punch, 2 3/8" Scallop Punch, Word Window Punch, Dimensionals, Linen Thread, Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon, Sweet & Sour Specialty Paper

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Inspiration Bloggers' Challenge

2011-04-08T08:47:00.003-04:00

This photo on the left was our inspiration for this week's Challenge....don't you love it? The black and white framed photos against the light blue wall is just so crisp, simple in its design, but softened by the blue wall....IMHO. So, that's what I went for when designing my Challenge card this week...simple and uncluttered design, crisp colors with Basic Black, Whisper White, and Baja Breeze. I'm thrilled with the way this came out....so thrilled that this just may be my Convention swap this July. Of course, I need to wait to see if everything on this card will be in the new catalog, but it's certainly a contender!

And guess what?!! I didn't use the Big Shot for this card. I KNOW.....you must be as shocked as I am!! Truthfully, I did consider re-doing this and using the BS, but I decided to go with the "less is more" rule.

This features a brand-new stamp set that will definitely be in our new catalog, Four Frames....and you can purchase this set right now! It's available for a limited time, and you can be among the first to own this fun set before the official release! For complete details this fabulous new set, click here....and then, of course, let me know you wish to purchase this set.

Not sure how this card looks on your screen, but the Baja Blue ink on the center greeting, the ribbon, and the cardstock background really DO match in real life. On my screen, they don't, but I promise that they really, do match!!

To create this, the Whisper White cardstock was adhered to the Baja Blue background, using some Dotto (temporary adhesive). Stamp in each corner; then remove the white cardstock which is then added to the black cardstock and then adhered permanently to the blue base. It's a cool technique that has been around for a long time has a lot of impact....and is as easy as just described. The Baja Breeze Seam Binding was wrapped around the black and white panel, the tag center was added, and those pretty little Basic Pearls added as the final touch.

Stamps: Elements of Style, Four Frames, Thank You Kindly

Inks: Basic Black, Baja Breeze

CS: Whisper White, Basic Black, Baja Breeze

Misc: Baja Breeze Seam Binding, Designer Label Punch, Basic Pearls, Stamp-a-ma-jig*, Dotto

*You didn't think I was able to get mirror images on my own, did you?!!

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Bird on a Branch

2011-04-07T15:05:00.001-04:00

I know....I really need to get more creative with my post names! But, as promised, here is my other bird card. I made this about a month ago for one of MaryJo's Challenges....but in the end, it didn't work for the Challenge. Truthfully, I wasn't sure then and still don't know how I feel about this card. What's your opinion...I'd really love to hear from you.

There is so little stamping on this card...it's almost embarrassing! Easy, easy, easy! The white 1/2 background piece was created in the Big Shot with the Top Note Die....it's slightly more than half of the shape. It was layered on top with 2 pieces cut in Tempting Turquoise from the Lattice Die and added to the Top Note before cutting the Top Note shape.

Then there's the bird...first stamped in Rich Razzelberry onto Rich Razzelberry cardstock with the Hostess Level 1 set, Punch Potpourri...do you own your set yet? No? It really is a must have...and each shape matches a punch in the SU collection!! The bird in that set does not have a wing, but the 2-Step Bird Punch does.....can you see that it was sponged around the edges? It really is such a small thing that adds so much...and is so quick and easy to do! Of course, a little mini Basic Pearl was added for his eye.

As you can see, he's sitting on a punched background.....the Designer Label Punch was stamped 3 times and added as if they are in graduated sizes. If you'd like to learn how to do this (it's really easy!), please let me know....there are tutorials in many spots on the net, so you may have already seen the directions. The final addition is a band and bow with White Taffeta Ribbon...still loving that stuff!

Anyway, this is what I was originally going to submit this past Friday/Weekend for the Bloggers' Bird Challenge....but, I liked this one so much better, even if the little bird is tiny!

Stamps: Punch Potpourri-Hostess Level 1

Inks: Rich Razzelberry

CS: Whisper White, Old Olive, Tempting Turquoise, Rich Razzelberry

Big Shot: Lattice Die, Top Note Die

Misc: Designer Label Punch, 2-Step Bird Punch, White Taffeta Ribbon, Basic Pearl

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Late Birthday Gift...Isn't it Fabulous?

2011-04-05T20:21:00.003-04:00

About 2 weeks ago, a few of my stamping friends and I got together for a shoebox swap. We also celebrated a few birthdays that had recently passed....including mine! Each gift was fun and they were given in grab bag fashion to those of us who recently celebrated....this one was what I received. Check out the container...can you guess what it is? This is just such a clever idea. Give up? It's a strawberry container. I don't know about you, but I don't think I'll ever look at those containers the same way again!

As you can see, Annette , put some shredded paper inside, tied some of that wonderful black stripe grosgrain around the side and decorated the top with Basic Black cardstock, a greeting and some butterflies. Isn't this fun?!!

And, now you want to know about the inside, don't you?!! There's a small glass candle holder, decorated with some Crumb Cake Seam Binding and a ribbon rose. Of course, there's a candle inside and 2 extra candles were included as well. Not sure about you, but I thought this was a wonderfully, creative way to make a simple gift so much more special. Thank you, Annette, for such a awesome gift!

Stamps: Elements of Style, Non-SU greetings
Inks: Basic Black
CS: Whisper White, Basic Black, Vellum
Misc: Beautiful Butterflies, Beautiful Wings Embosslit, Big Shot, Crumb Cake Seam Binding, Ribbon Rose, Basic Black 1 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

MaryJo's Lunchtime Sketch Challenge

2011-04-04T17:28:00.004-04:00

I'm in!! It was a busy stamping week last week, but I really wanted to participate....the sketch this week was actually one I was able to turn into a card! You see, I'm not always successful...sometimes the sizing is wrong, or I just can't come up with an idea for the sketch at all...or I run out of time. But this card is one I dreamed of last night....don't laugh! Haven't YOU dreamt of a stamping idea at some time?!!

This stamp and background paper combination has been combined in various ways for cards this past year and when I downloaded this week's sketch, I really wasn't sure what to do with it...that is until I went to bed last night! (It's OK...my hubby thinks I'm nuts, so you may think so, too!)

You know, this is the time of year when we begin anticipating the new catalog....and wonder which sets will retire. I am concerned about this set....maybe because I haven't seen a ton of ideas with it, but with the vintage look being so popular, I'm just not sure why! So, I thought I really need to use this set more. It's a great 2-stamp set, that's inexpensive and easy to use....it's just perfect with some DSP for a quick and easy card.

Back to my card........you can see MaryJo's original sketch here. Those little tabs in the bottom right corner gave me a bit of trouble, but other than than, it was a "piece of cake!" The Thank You stamp was double matted and then placed on Dimensionals. Oh, and I sponged a bit around the edges of the stamped cardstock in Crumb Cake to really give it an old-fashioned look. Not a lot of stamping, but I'm happy with the look...hope you like it as well!

Stamps: Engraved Greetings

Inks: Basic Black, Crumb Cake

CS: Very Vanilla, Basic Black, Riding Hood Red

Misc: Love Letter DSP, Word Window Punch, Ruby Red Mini Brads*, Paper Piercer & Template, Dimensionals, Sponge Dauber

*Retired

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Springtime Swap Card

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

Is Spring actually here? The calendar says it is...we had the threat of snow this past Friday, but it didn't really happen. Today is gorgeous.....in the 50's and somewhat sunny.....it's definitely promising! So, to celebrate Spring's arrival, I have a Springtime card for you.....I hosted a swap recently, and that was the theme....this was my submission.

If you look around in the stores at all the Spring clothes, jewel tones seem to dominate. So, I guess I'm right in line with this rather vivid card....the colors here are So Saffron, Pear Pizzaz, and Poppy Parade, with a touch of Basic Black and Whisper White. I'm in love with this combination!

This really was an easy card to put together and I'm thrilled with the end result. That center focal point was created with the fabulously wonderful 2 1/2" circle punch....it makes those big circles so easy! As you can see, I stamped on the white circle in Pear Pizzaz (I do believe it's my FAVORITE In-Color this year!!), and added in a couple of those cute little flowers, created with one of the shapes in the Itty Bitty Shapes Pack. And what says Spring better than butterflies? So, one of those adorable, tiny, little butterflies from the Beautiful Wings sizzlet was added for just the right touch. To create the scallop background behind the circle layers, I used my poor, neglected Flower Folds Bigz Die.....there are 2 put together. (The 2nd from the smallest was used.)

The ladies in the swap have not received this yet...but all the swaps are postal and on their way. Hope they like this one!

Stamps: Just Believe, Thank You Kindly, French Script
Inks: Pear Pizzaz, Basic Gray
CS: Whisper White, Poppy Parade, Pear Pizzaz, So Saffron, Basic Black
Big Shot: Square Lattice EF, Lots of Tags, Flower Folds Bigz Die, Beautiful Wings Sizzlet
Misc: 2 1/2" Circle Punch, Circle Scissor Plus, Wide Basic Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Paper Piercer, Dimensionals, Basic Pearls, Itty Bitty Shapes Pack

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Let the Birds Sing!

2011-04-02T17:10:00.002-04:00

Well, I know that I used this little stamp just last week for the Bloggers' Challenge, but it's just so dang cute...and I had not yet put it away. So, I figured I could use it again for this week's Challenge, which is BIRDS. SU has a ton of birds to choose from in their line...and I do have another to share in a day or so, but for the Challenge, this is it!

This layout was definitely inspired by the amazing Diana Gibbs, (sorry....can't find a link to her original idea) but she made a square card...and although I like square cards, I simply do not make them....or send them! So, I turned her idea into a regular size card. There are definitely some differences, a few less layers, different DSP, and then, of course, the bottom of the card......I had stamped in a greeting, which came out crooked and smudged, so I needed to cover it up and the scallop bottom idea was born!

This sample is totally current SU....I had considered using it for a stamp class I held last night, but decided about half way through that it might be too time consuming for my ladies. Since it's totally SU, the image was colored in using SU markers. In my last post, I used Copics, and although I love using my Copics (my collection is quite small!), you can see that our markers work really well. I found a trick...color in using the lightest shade, highlight with a darker shade and then color over one more time with the lightest shade (see the tulips). By going over the area colored one last time with the lightest marker, it kind of smoothed out the rough edges and blended, or softened the colors. I believe the trick is to do each step, one right after another....in other words, don't let your project sit before continuing onto the next step. I guess the marker was maybe still a bit wet, or at least not totally cured.

So, what do you think? The tulips in the basket are more prominent that cute little blue bird.....does this qualify for our Challenge?

Stamps: A Flower for All Seasons, Tiny Tags

Inks: Jet Black StazOn, Pink Pirouette

CS: Whisper White, Pink Pirouette

Markers: Pink Pirouette, Pretty in Pink, Bashful Blue, Wild Wasabi, So Saffron, More Mustard Misc: Paper Piercer & Template, White Gel Pen, Pretty in Pink Grosgrain Ribbon, 2 3/8" Scallop Punch, 2 1/2" Circle Punch, Tasteful Trim Die, Lattice Die, Big Shot, Dimensionals , Designer Series Paper Pack-In Color

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

Saying Good Bye to Sale-a-Bration, 2011!

2011-03-30T18:03:00.001-04:00

It's that time again...time to say a fond farewell to the beautiful sets of this year's Sale-a-Bration event. As I mentioned in a recent post, Sweet Summer is new for me....and it really is so versatile and just plain old adorable....and I don't usually do cute! So, here's my good-bye Sweet Summer card....you may see creations in the future made with this wonderful set, but it will no longer be available for you to earn. I saw this basic idea somewhere out there in cyberland (Sorry...didn't keep the source. So, if this is your idea, please be sure to let me know so that I can give you proper credit!) However, this has been changed up a bit from the original....I turned it into a "tent card." All that black you see in the background is just that....background...NOT a part of the card.

This is one of the cards I made with my Stamp Group ladies last week; and they all loved it. It's bright and cheery and just so fun. One little note, though, that little band of stripped DSP along the lower edge has been retired....you see, I have a ton of DSP, but very little of it is current!! But, I'm sure that you can easily use something you have on hand instead. The base of the card, is simply 8 1/2" x 4 1/4" and folded in half. The Top Note is mounted on top of the fold...if you use the SU Grid Paper, you can easily line it up so that it will fit in a Medium Size Envelope....how easy is that?!! Those cute little "flowers" are simply from the Sweet Buttons Sizzlet, double layered and then mounted on Dimensionals...and, of course, topped off with a sweet little Basic Pearl. Cute, don't you think? (Sooo, NOT my idea!!) Oh, the rick rack across the base is from my "new" Tasteful Trim Bigz Die...I'm loving it!

Stamps: Sweet Summer, Teeny Tiny Wishes

Inks: Basic Black, Old Olive

CS: Whisper White, Tempting Turquoise, Old Olive

Misc: Certainly Celery Marker, Dimensionals, Basic Pearls, Top Note Die, Tasteful Trim Bigz Die, Sweet Buttons Sizzlet, Big Shot, DSP (retired)

Thanks so much for stopping by today....hope you enjoyed your stay!

REMEMBER...there's still a bit of time to earn your FREE Sale-a-Bration sets, but don't wait too long....because after tomorrow (3/31/11) they will be G-O-N-E!!! Be sure to contact me TODAY so that you can earn yours before it's too late.

Bloggers' Challenge -- It's a Sketch

2011-03-25T08:37:00.002-04:00

This week's Challenge was an easy one....a fairly simple layout, or sketch. The only thing that gave me trouble is that there are a lot of layers (see center of the card) and the section above and below the center for brads, buttons, bows, or whatever else we could think of. I almost left them off and then decided on the largest of the Basic Pearls. For a simple layout, I kinda felt there was a lot going on, but by going with softer colors, and keeping everything relatively simple, it worked for me.....hope you'll agree!

Last Friday, the weather was almost Summer-like...it was a beautiful day and the temperature hit the low 70s. Well, fast forward to this week, and we've had snow 3 times!! I'm so ready for Spring (I think I've said that before, haven't I?!!)....so this sweet little image with the bird and basket of tulips just cried Spring to me. Maybe this will help a bit!!

Everything on this card is from SU, except for the coloring part....I used my Copics. After coloring in this image, I then decided on the background colors. The pink background is Pink Pirouette....which really softened the overall look....I'm loving it paired with Certainly Celery.

To create the central circles and scallops I used.....

1 3/4" Round Punch and layered that onto a circle from the Circles Die. This is all layered onto 2 of the 2 3/8" Scallop punched layers. Then it's all popped up on Dimensionals.

So, there you have it....simple, right?!! Thanks for stopping by today.

Stamps: A Flower For All Seasons
Inks: Jet Black StazOn
CS: Whisper White, Pink Pirouette, Certainly Celery
Misc: 1 3/4" Round Punch, 2 3/8" Scallop Punch, Circles Die, Perfect Polka Dots EF, Finial Press EF, Big Shot, Certainly Celery Twill (retired), Basic Pearls, Copics

Just a little FYI....

If you are a Copic fan...and I know many are!...you'll be happy to know (according to my "local" stamp/scrapbook store...which is an hour away!!) that "everyone who works for the company is safe and the offices and production facilities survived the earthquake and aftershocks with minimal to no damage." You see, the company that makes Copics is located just outside of Tokyo. It's nice to hear some good news coming out of Japan for a change!

Spring has Sprung!

2011-03-20T23:10:00.001-04:00

......well, almost! Today was a cold one, but there are definitely signs that Spring is trying to push its way in......the trees have buds, the crocuses have popped, the days are definitely getting warmer (even if they begin cold)! Spring time officially arrived this weekend...at least on the calendar. So, last week's theme for our Challenge was very appropriately Spring Flowers!

My card for this Challenge is really not my original idea, but really a compilation of ideas that I've seen out there in cyberspace. This cute little Sale a Bration set, Sweet Summer, just arrived on my doorstep a few days ago.....I just couldn't resist it any longer!.....and I so wanted to use it while it is still current. And if you've been visiting my blog for any length of time, you'll know that one of my favorite color combinations is Crumb Cake and Baja Breeze. Although this is not bright like Spring cards can be, I hope it still qualifies....what do you think of this sample?

As you can see, I used Crumb Cake as my card base and impressed it with the Terrific Tulips Embossing Folder. That sweet little image was simply stamped on Whisper White CS in Basic Black ink and colored with markers. To dress it up a bit, the flowers were cut and popped up on Dimensionals....after being colored with a Blender Pen and a bit of ink off the lid; and some Basic Pearls (another of my favorite things!) were added in. Isn't this just so sweet?!!

Stamps: Sweet Summer, Tiny Tags
Inks: Basic Black, Baja Breeze
CS: Crumb Cake, Whisper White, Baja Breeze
Misc: DS Paper Pack (retired) in Kraft, Baja Breeze Seam Binding, Linen Thread, Baja Breeze Button (retired), Linen Thread, Basic Pearls, Blender Pen, Certainly Celery Marker, Baja Breeze Marker

Thanks so much for stopping by today and spending a little time here! And if you are loving this fun little stamp set, don't wait to long....it's such a versatile set and there's not much more time left to Sale a Brate and earn you own!! Be sure to contact me today to find out how you can earn it!

MaryJo's Monday Challenge #165

2011-03-14T11:46:00.006-04:00

This is my version of Mary Jo's sketch this week....a little different, definitely a variation. But, although it's very simple....and has almost no stamping, I love it and really wanted to share!

I'm trying to decide if this is Spring-y or Summer-y...what do you think? Those daisies from the Daisy Die....I used the smallest....are just so dang cute. And I thought they'd be perfect for this week's Challenge. Everything on this card is from SU, but, the centers of the flowers are the now-retired Chocolate Chip buttons. I still have a lot of those....and still love them....wish they were still in the SU line....and thought they were perfect for the flower centers.

The Chocolate Chip rick-rack-shaped strip across the card was created with the new Tasteful Trim die....well, it's new for me. It was released in the Holiday Mini, and is still available. Isn't it fun?!! As you can see, I added it to the Whisper White background and then impressed it all in the Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder.

Then the flowers were simply added in on Glue Dots (I still have some of the larger glue dots in my stash....and these worked great. However; I'm certain you could use a few Mini Glue Dots or Dimensionals.) I just added in a little greeting, in keeping with the simplicity of the overall card.

So, that's my submission for Mary Jo's Challenge this week. It's good to join in.....not sure what my problem was, but for the last few weeks, every time I tried to create a card with her sketch of the week, it just went so very wrong! Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Stamps: Short & Sweet

Inks: Chocolate Chip

CS: Whisper White, Daffodil Delight, Chocolate Chip

Misc: Daisy Die, Tasteful Trim Die, Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Word Window Punch, Pop-Up Glue Dots*, Chocolate Chip Corduroy Buttons*

Bloggers' Challenge -- Happy Birthday!

2011-03-11T23:46:00.003-05:00

This week's theme, as you may have already guessed, is a birthday theme. Lisa is our list mom (she puts out the Challenges to us) has a birthday coming up....so, this is kind of like a mini birthday party for her! Happy Birthday, Lisa!! (Hope it's a great one!)

This card was a fun one to make...one I made about a month ago for the birthday of a very good friend. I took my colors for the card from this DSP, Sweet & Sour Specialty paper. The DSP was layered onto a base of Rose Red CS. Then there's that scallop square created by the Scallop Square Duo Die and my Big Shot, topped with a couple of layers of CS...can you see them? A bit of Pink Pirouette shows through under the Whisper White layer, but on top of the Pumpkin Pie.

And how cute is that cupcake? It's from the fun little set in the Occasions Mini, Create a Cupcake and the matching punch. I was so happy with the way this card came out...but, it definitely was inspired by this one here. Now, if you've clicked on that link and you are a SU Demonstrator, you should be able to click right over, but, if you are not, you cannot view the inspiration sample (so sorry!), as it is located on a demo-only site. (Another reason you NEED to become a SU demo!!)

Oh, and that bow...made with the luscious Whisper White Satin ribbon....was created with the Bow Easy (a non-SU item)....something I received as a gift and makes the best, most perfect bows! Well, that's it for today. Thank you so much for stopping by today...hope you enjoyed today's share.

Stamps: Create a Cupcake

Inks: Rose Red, Pumpkin Pie, Pink Pirouette

CS: Whisper White, Rose Red, Pumpkin Pie, Pink Pirouette

Misc: Build a Cupcake Punch, Word Window Punch, Big Shot, Scallop Square Duo Die, Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder, Sweet & Sour Specialty DSP, Whisper White Satin Ribbon, Mini Glue Dots (for holding the bow on), 2-Way Glue Pen, Dazzling Diamonds (on the frosting)

Bloggers' Challenge -- Peach/Green/White

2011-03-04T17:56:00.002-05:00

OK...your screen is NOT off....your eyes are NOT deceiving you! I goofed....so, just imagine that the So Saffron color is Peach Parfait instead. (I don't know where my head is at these days!!) I was thinking peach when I created this card this morning, but I reached for So Saffron instead. I'm really having a "dumb blonde day" today.....hope the other Bloggers' don't mind my mistake!!

Anyway, I'm in love with Wild Wasabi these days (did you notice?!!...I've used it in a few recent postings), so this is presently my "go to" green color. IMHO, it's just such a lovely, Spring-like green. And to think I wasn't very impressed a couple of years ago when this was an In-Color! Hmm....guess we all evolve with time, right?!!

Anyway, I wanted to keep this card kind of simple...it began with an entirely different layout in mind! (That process of evolving!) There's actually quite a bit going on here, but since the backgrounds are color-on-color, it doesn't really look too busy.

Can you see the die cut Lattice background? Well, originally, I thought that it would be perfect for the Inlaid Embossing technique. And quite possibly, it would be....IF it wasn't the same color as the background. Since the die cut piece is the same color as the card background, it simply disappeared! Even in real life, I could barely see it....and that simply will not do!! You see, with all those tiny sections, adhering the cut piece to the embossed background is a bit tricky, so I figured the inlaid process would take care of that....but, NOPE, that didn't work at all! Guess, it needed to be a contrasting color.

So, once the background was fixed, a circle was die cut from the Circles #2 die (it's the 3rd largest size)...but, if you are lucky enough to own the new 2 1/2" Circle Punch, that would work as well. (Mine has been on backorder!) Then the circle was simply stamped in Wild Wasabi and the flowers were added in. Aren't those dimensional flowers....created with the Flower Fusion Sizzlet...just adorable?!! The centers are Bitty Buttons tied with a bit of Linen Thread.

All in all, when I worked out the kinks, it was a very fun card to create....and even if I used the wrong color scheme, I love the fresh, Spring-like look!! (Oh! I hope Spring comes soon...don't you?)

Stamps: For All You Do, Because I Care (greeting)

Inks: Wild Wasabi, So Saffron, Basic Gray

CS: Whisper White, Wild Wasabi, So Saffron

Misc: Big Shot, Lattice Die, Square Lattice EF, Circle #2 Die, Flower Fusion Sizzlet, Bitty Buttons, Linen Thread, Mini Glue Dots, Modern Label Punch, Large Oval Punch, 1 1/4" Round Punch, 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon in Daffodil Delight

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

UhOh! Missed the Mark Again!

2011-03-02T10:59:00.000-05:00

Well, with all the "time off" from stamping lately, I seem to be a bit rusty. Oh, I'm not unhappy with this card, but you see it was supposed to be for MaryJo's sketch from a week ago Monday. Problem is, that stamped focal point ended up way too large for the layout. Since I liked the way the images came out, I didn't want it to go to waste and that's how this card was created!

The stamped image was created by using markers and double stamping along the bottom....in other words, there's second generation stamping along the base. The way the greens all work together is really pretty, don't you think?...so nice and soft....AND Spring-y! Those little pearls are just like the "icing on the cake....you know I love them!

Although I like the stamped panel, when I was putting this card together, it just seemed to need a little something extra. So, that's how the 1/2 circle and flower came to be used. The 1/2 circle is really a 1 1/4" circle punched, folded in 1/2 and wrapped around the layers. Then a little Fleurette was added....can you see it's the double Fleurette? So cute...and it looked perfect in this plain, white, original color....no need to dye it or anything. Truthfully, I haven't used many of these cutties, but now that I have used one on this card I may crack out these babies any use them everywhere! OK....just kidding...but I do love how it looks on this card!

The Fleurette was topped with an Antique Brad and....can you see it?...another mini Basic Pearl! This, of course, is all set against my very favorite impressed background.....Mellon Mambo impressed with the Square Lattice EF. The simple little oval with the greeting (which is an older, now-retired SU set) is simply unframed, but on Dimensionals.

What do you think? A bit bright, but, I'm loving it. Can Spring hear us calling? March is upon us....Spring can't be far behind!

Stamps: Just Believe, Warmest Regards*

Inks: Mellon Mambo, Wild Wasabi

CS: Whisper White, Wild Wasabi, Pear Pizzaz, Mellon Mambo

Markers: Pear Pizzaz, Mellon Mambo

Misc: Large Oval Punch, 1 1/4" Round Punch, Basic Pearls, Dimensionals, Big Shot, Square Lattice EF, Fleurette, Antique Brad

Thanks so much for stopping by!

A Simple Thanks

2011-02-24T22:15:00.002-05:00

This card is really a simple one (much more my style than my previous post, which you can see here)......and one I made recently for a thank you card. (Yes, I really did send it!) I'm loving the Poppy Parade and Old Olive color combination. Paired with a bit of black it really pops. AND this one uses my very favorite stamp set, Friends 24-7.

Although I adore this stamp set, I actually have rarely used this particular stamp. My favorite stamp in the set is the flourish...that's one I use most often!! Anyway, the image was stamped in StazOn Jet Black, then colored in with markers and a Blender Pen. This was stamped and colored on Whisper White CS. I really tried to be careful, but to get the intensity of color, the paper kind of pulled and roughed up. So, to counter-act this, I then colored over the entire image with the Versamarker and embossed with Clear Embossing Powder.....but, I know that you cannot see that. It really kind of makes this card more special.

As you can see, there are a few layers to really set off the embossed floral image and raised on Dimensionals. This is all set against the Poppy Parade background that was impressed with the wonderful new (it's in the Occasions Mini) Framed Tulips EF.

Stamps: Friends 24-7, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Inks: StazOn Jet Black
CS: Whisper White, Poppy Parade, Old Olive
Markers: Poppy Parade, Old Olive
Misc: Blender Pen, Versamarker, Wide Basic Black Grosgrain, White Button from the Neutrals Designer Pack, Linen Thread, Small Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, Big Shot, Framed Tulips EF

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Spring is Coming.....Really!

2011-02-22T21:47:00.002-05:00

This began as my submission to MaryJo's Techno Lunchtime Sketch Challenge for last week. Well, I'm too late for that Challenge, but it turns out that I really didn't follow the sketch. You see, the stamped floral image portion turned out too large for the layout. MJ's sketch was actually a square card....but, I find them difficult to store and they cost more to send, so I generally stay away from making them. Since I didn't use the square size for this, it really didn't layout as I had hoped, and I came up with this instead.

I'm actually not sure how I feel about this card....it's a bit busier than my usual style, but it is kind of Spring-y. Since it snowed AGAIN today and I'm really looking forward to Spring, maybe this will bring it on a little sooner!

Truthfully, I always seem to have trouble building a "garden" look, so the stamped portion was inspired by a card I saw somewhere by Carol Taggert, although it is somewhat different. As you can see, the set used is Awash with Flowers, a 2-step set. I believe Carol stamped the outline images and watercolored them in....her card is truly beautiful. Since I used stamps for the inside image, the panel seemed a bit stark when done. So, to soften it a bit and blend the greens at the base, I sponged around the edges and brought the color in a bit around the flowers. I paired Wild Wasabi and Pear Pizzaz together, and I'm really happy with that combo....I'm definitely going to use that together again.

Oh, and not sure if you can tell, but the stamped insides of the flowers features the Rock 'n Roll technique. If you click on the photo of the card, it will open larger and you can see more detail....and you may notice that the flowers are 2-toned.

Stamps: Awash with Flowers

Inks: Basic Gray, Pear Pizzaz, Wild Wasabi, So Saffron, Peach Parfait, Pretty in Pink, Rose Red

CS: Whisper White, Pear Pizzaz, So Saffron, Paper Pack DSP*

Misc: Pretty in Pink Narrow Grosgrain Ribbon, Linen Thread, Neutral Button from Designer Button Pack, Framed Tulips EF, Big Shot, Martha Stewart Punch, Mini Glue Dots

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting today!

Bakery Window

2011-02-21T20:27:00.003-05:00

My birthday was early this month....but since I was not feeling well for much of the last few weeks, I'm kind of calling it my un-birthday. Unfortunately, the calendar still shows I'm another year older...oh, well!

Well, I happen to share the same birth date with my good friend, June, a sister demo. So, of course, she gave me a really great WOW card to commemorate my un-birthday! It's such a fabulous card, that I just had to share with you!! Check out all the detail.....don't you just love that awning? It was created by adding punch outs created with the Word Window Punch and creasing the CS. It showcases a now-retired stamp set, The More the Merrier, a Hostess set from last year's catalog.

As you can see, the bottom portion was impressed with my still-favorite embossing folder, Square Lattice. The greeting is from Occasional Quotes, a hostess offering from the current catalog. So....how cute is this card?!!

Stamps: The More the Merrier, Occasional Quotes
Inks: Basic Black (cupcakes), Early Espresso
CS: Pretty in Pink,Shimmery White
Misc: Word Window Punch, Large Oval Punch, Scallop Oval Punch, Scallop Edge Punch, Square Lattic EF, Big Shot, Pretty in Pink Marker

Thanks so much for stopping by today...hope you enjoyed your stay!

Beautiful Butterflies

2011-02-20T12:00:00.000-05:00

Isn't this gorgeous? OK....I know I'm bragging! But, when I was finished making this card, I was just amazed at how simple, but elegant it was when completed.

The background of this card is simply a base of folded Crumb Cake cardstock...no embossing, it's just plain and simple! The scallop square was created with the larger of the 2 scallop squares in the Scallop Square Duo Die (still available!) and then a stamped layer of Very Vanilla is over top. The stamp used is Fine Flourishes.....a lovely smaller, background stamp. The double winged butterfly was made using both the Beautiful Butterflies Die (Crumb Cake layer) and the Beautiful Wings Embosslit (Baja Breeze layer). Before mounting the smaller butterfly layer, I gently folded in half, so that it would have more dimension....and the raised portion was also gently sponged with Very Vanilla Craft Ink, which makes those little raised curly Qs POP! After mounting, some Basic Pearls (LOVE those!!) were added in, and the butterfly really came together.

I'm also in love with all the new seam binding that SU is carrying....on this card, I wrapped the front of the card in Crumb Cake Seam Binding. The bow has one of the cute little buttons from the Neutrals Designer Pack, a smaller bow created with Linen Thread and topped with a small Basic Pearl. I guess this card is a perfect example of "less is more!"

Stamps: Afterthoughts (Hostess Level 1), Fine Flourishes
Inks: Soft Suede, Very Vanilla Craft Ink
CS: Crumb Cake, Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla
Misc: Big Shot, Scallop Square Duo, Beautiful Butterflies, Beautiful Wings Embosslit, Basic Pearls, Crumb Cake Seam Binding, Neutrals Designer Button, Linen Thread, Mini Glue Dot (to hold bow on)

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Bloggers' Challenge -- Embossing

2011-02-19T10:02:00.004-05:00

That cold I managed to get, paired with a sinus infection had me down and out....if you have been "lucky" enough to have had that cold yourself, you know just how awful it can be! I'm sorry I've been away for awhile, but I just didn't have the energy to come up with a creative idea...or get to my stamp studio...or even post anything! Fortunately, I'm feeling soooo much better....but it took 3 weeks! So, I'm a bit behind......YIKES!

I have to confess that I didn't make this one for the challenge, but it is something I made not too long ago. I made a gift pack of these up for a wonderful friend who loves piggies. Do you recognize that cute little piglet? It's from a SAB set from a few years ago....sorry, it's no longer available. Neither is the background paper, it is from last year's Sweet Pea Paper Pack, but if you are like me, you still have tons left, right?!!

So, this card fits our embossing challenge this week. The background was double embossed with folders....first with the Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder and then with the wonderful Framed Tulips EF. By passing the cardstock through the Big Shot a second time, the dots flatten a bit, but it's still a lovely effect, don't you think? (This idea is from the talented and creative, Robin Merriman...she's just so clever!....and the layout was inspired by Tara Bazata's last GoDiva Swap. These ladies always have the BEST ideas!!)

The little pig was colored in using my non-SU Copic Sketch Markers...but almost everything else is from SU, even if a few things have retired. Fun card, isn't it? Joanne, the friend who received a gift set of these, loved them!

Stamps: Very Punny* (2007 SAB set), Fabulous Phrases

Inks: Pitch Black Alcohol Ink (non-SU)

CS: Piourette Pink, Basic Black, Whisper White

Misc: Sweet Pea DSP*, Scallop Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, Dimensional, 1/8" Basic Black Taffeta Ribbon, Perfect Polka Dots EF, Framed Tulips EF, Big Shot

*Retired

Thanks so much for stopping by today. Be sure to check out what the others have been up to...see below.

Blogger's Challenge AND Techno Lunchtime Challenge

2011-02-05T23:13:00.007-05:00

Whew! I'm here....very under the weather, but I'm here! So sorry I've been missing....I would rather have been here than in bed...which is basically where I've been since a week ago Friday. YUK! That awful winter cold that's been floating around here got me....thanks to my daughter. (We do teach them to share, right?!!) And I also have a sinus infection. OMG....never had one of those before and really, really hope I never get one again. (My face feels like it wants to fall off.) Anyway, that's where I've been....I'm now on antibiotics, so hopefully, I'm on the mend. I do feel ever so slightly better.....I hope you'll forgive me for not posting. (I did get a few things done....like laundry and dinner and food shopping.....but, I'd get something done and crawl right back into bed.) The really good news is that I have lost all those Christmas pounds!!

So...you are here for a card. I created this today, but honestly, it took me ALL day to come up with this! I was following MaryJo's sketch from last Monday and realized that it also fits the Bloggers' Challenge from Friday, which was a color challenge: Red, White & Black. Two birds with one stone! HA! My card here was inspired by this card. Julie's was a much more simple version, but I just loved it. Everything used on my sample is SU (almost), however, there are a couple of items that have retired, like the DSP is from a retired Hostess Paper Pack; and the felt flower is non-SU from my stash.

About the card....can you tell that the bird cage was cut out and raised? It's on a Dimensional. And there's a tiny little rhinestone at the very top. "True Friend" is part of one of the images from the Sale-a-Bration set, Punch Pals.....it was punched out using the now-retired 1/2" Round Punch.

Stamps: Aviary, Teeny Tiny Wishes, Punch Bunch
Inks: Basic Black, Real Red
CS: Basic Black, Whisper White, Real Red
Misc: 1/2" Round Punch*, Scallop Border Punch, Basic Rhinestone, Dimensional, DSP/Hostess Paper Pack*, Felt Flower (non-SU), Perfect Polka Dots EF, Big Shot, Mini Glue Dots

*Retired
Thanks so much for hanging in there with me...and thanks for stopping by today. See you again soon! Oh, and don't forget to check out the others who participated in either of these Challenges....in fact, if you'd like to play along, please feel free. Just don't forget to link back to the Blogger's Challenge and MaryJo's Lunchtime Challenge.

Hearts for a Friend

2011-01-27T08:03:00.003-05:00

We've got more snow....again! It snowed all day yesterday and all night long as well. (Seems to be a weekly event in this area of the country lately!) Since I was house bound yesterday, I was able to get a lot done in my stamp studio. No, not stamping, unfortunately.....remember this post where I told you that the ceiling in my studio needed to be taken down? Well, turns out it wasn't too bad and the clean up has begun....it won't be long until I'm back in there stamping my little heart out. In fact, my hope is to finish up today. My, some of the things I have found! A number of things have gotten dumped....and I found so many things that I had forgotten that I had.

In the meantime, I wanted to share this sample with you. This was also made awhile back and given away. Check out the Inlaid Embossed hearts in the upper portion of the card. See? Hearts don't need to be for just Valentine's Day!! Fun! Just a touch of stamping....the greeting and the main heart. Looking at this card again, I wish I had added in a little rhinestone to dot the "I" in Friend. But, I didn't think of that when this was made....it would make a cute little addition, though...maybe next time! Oh, and this heart was set up on Dimensionals. And then there's the "ribbon" created with that all, important Dotted Ribbon Scallop Border Punch.

Stamps: I (Heart) Hearts, Occasional Quotes
Inks: Rose Red
CS: Whisper White, Pretty in Pink, Rose Red, Regal Rose
Misc: Small Heart Punch, Large Heart Punch, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, Dimensionals, Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Big Shot

Thanks so much for stopping by today.

Stamping Bliss

2011-01-24T10:51:00.007-05:00

So, tomorrow is the big day! Are you ready? You DO remember what tomorrow is, right?!! The beginning of Sale a Bration....it's a blissful day!! WooHoo! To prepare you, I'm sharing this card that I recently made for a swap....theme: Sale a Bration, of course!

Although this card looks simple and easy (and it is), there are a few tricks to share......
That lovely flourish is a beauty, isn't it? It's from Bliss, one of this year's Sale a Bration offerings that you can earn for FREE! It was inked first in Baja Breeze ink and then just touched lightly around all the outside edges with the matching marker. That gives it a subtle shaded effect, which is what I wanted so that the words showed up well.

Can you see the tiny, little seed pearls just above and below the greeting? I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, the Basic Pearls!!!! There are a variety of sizes included in each package and each and every one of them has a sticky back. So, no, your eyes are NOT deceiving you....the pearls are different sizes.

And the outer edges of the Natural Ivory cardstock have all been sponged with Crumb Cake to give it an aged look. And last, but not least, is the ribbon finish.....it's really Early Espresso (as is the cardstock background and stamped greeting), but on my screen it looks black. The Early Espresso is just a bit softer and I'm loving it with the Baja Breeze....it's a terrific color combo!

As for the button, well, it's actually a paper button created with the Buttons #5 Sizzlet...cute, huh?!! I used a paper button because this was a swap card and I didn't have enough of any one button in my collection to use instead. So, the paper button worked!

Stamps: Thank You Kindly, Bliss
Inks: Crumb Cake, Baja Breeze, Early Espresso
CS: Early Espresso, Baja Breeze, Natural Ivory
Misc: Baja Breeze Marker, Basic Pearls, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Linen Thread, 1 1/4" Stripped Grosgrain in Early Espresso, Buttons #5 Sizzlet, Big Shot

So glad you were able to stop by today and visit....thanks so much for coming by!

PLEASE NOTE: During Sale a Bration, you can earn a FREE set from the Sale a Bration catalog for every $50 (in merchandise) you spend! So, don't miss out....be sure to contact me soon for more info or to earn your free sets!

Oh, No! Under Constuction

2011-01-24T10:51:00.005-05:00

No, this blog is not under construction....my home is! So, I don't have access right now to my stamp studio.....

You see, we're in the middle of a dining room re-do. No big deal, right? Well, we found that the outer wall was never insulated....so all the plaster and lathe came down. (We're in an older home and somehow these "little" jobs are never little....they always seem to grow!!) Then we found that one of the heating ducts was disconnected, which explains why my bedroom is always so cold in the winter and warm in the summer! So, that means, the ceiling in my stamp studio must come down to access the duct work and make the needed repairs.

So, right now, half my stamp studio is packed up in boxes and sitting in my family room....the other half is draped with plastic to keep the sheet rock dust out! YUK! BUT, in many ways, this is a very, very good thing! Of course, my heating and electric bills should go down....that's definitely a good thing! (Maybe I'll have more $$$s for stamps and supplies?) AND, as I unpack and put everything away after the work is complete, I'll definitely see what I've got and will come up with some new projects and purge some of those many unnecessary items!

Hopefully, I'll be back to normal in about a week and a half or two, so I won't be able to participate in the Challenges for a bit. But, before I packed up, I made a few things that I can share, so please come back and visit!

Bloggers' Challenge -- Designer Series Paper

2011-01-21T11:46:00.004-05:00

This week, Lisa challenged us to work with Designer Series Paper in a creative way....kind of like DSP with a twist! Well, it just so happens that I had not had a chance to share this with you before and it works perfectly for today's Challange!

Back in November, I needed a small gift package and this is what I came up with....it really was simple and quick to make! Can you tell what this was originally? It's a simple, every-day brown paper lunch bag....something most of us have around in our cabinets. For this package, I cut the bag down to 6" (keep it folded) and then added DSP to the front and back, covering completely. (The pleated sides are still exposed, but that's OK!) The stamped portion was created using just markers to get all the different colors for the flower (it's one stamp). However, the greeting was stamped in ink, using Fabulous Phrases....so the Stamp a ma jig was definitely in order so that the words lined up exactly. The word stamps in this set are all individual, giving you the versatility of making your own phrases and greetings.....definitely a great idea and bargain!

For the topper, I'm sorry, but I cannot remember the dimensions....but I can tell you that it's as wide as the bag. I believe there's about a 1" flap on the back of the bag, which was adhered really well using Sticky Strip. The fold over for the front was not a special measurement....it was just something that I thought was eye pleasing. Can you see the edge was punched with the Pinking Hearts Punch and then just a tiny little strip of Daffodil Delight CS was added over top. Oh, and the last thing was the Certainly Celery Wide Grosgrain added (which matches the Pear Pizzazz color of the DSP!) around the bottom of the stamped image and then for the handle. What a fun way to package up a gift!

Stamps: Friends Never Fade, Fabulous Phrases
Inks: Early Espresso
CS: Very Vanilla, Early Espresso, Daffodil Delight
Markers: Pear Pizzazz, Riding Hood Red, Early Espresso
Misc: Pinking Hearts Punch, Crop-a-dile (for handle), Sticky Strip, Certainly Celery Wide Grosgrain

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

MaryJo's Sketch #157

2011-01-17T20:50:00.004-05:00

I'm in this week....yipee!! It's such fun to play along again with MaryJo's sketch...and a fun one it is. Simple, too! BUT, I turned the sketch on its side.

You can see the original sketch here. As you can see, the sketch was originally a vertical one, but this cute little owl just didn't fit that way...but horizontally, it does....and perfectly, too, don't you think? I used the cute little new Sale-a-Bration set, Punch Bunch and the 2-Step Owl Punch. Each owl was stamped twice and punched twice as well.....the second time so that the belly color could be changed out. (I needed to trim slightly with a pair of snips.)

The biggest dilemma I seemed to have with this card was the background....or the partial background. I used the Solid Stripe background stamp (also going to be a Sale-a-Bration offering.) stamped in Old Olive ink. But it looked kinda plain to me, so I decided to run it through my Big Shot using the Finial Press Embossing Folder. Truthfully, I think I should have used the Square Lattice Folder instead, but figured you were probably tired of looking at samples where I used with that....you must know it's my favorite! (No, haven't worn it out, yet!! LOL)

So, here it is....my simple and easy submission for this week's Challenge. This is quickly becoming one of my favorite color combos with the new color line....Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, and Rich Razzelberry. The Whisper White seems to mellow it out.

Stamps: Thank You Kindly, Punch Bunch, Solid Stripe
Inks: Old Olive, Rich Razzelberry, Pumpkin Pie
CS: Whisper White, Old Olive, Rich Razzelberry
Misc: 2-Step Owl Punch, Modern Label Punch, Word Window Punch, Scallop Trim Border Punch, White Mini Brads, Paper Piercer & Template, Big Shot, Finial Press EF, White Taffeta Ribbon

Check out the longer than usual Word Window and Modern Label Punched greeting. To achieve this look, I stamped the greeting and folded the stamped cardstock in half. This was then inserted into the Modern Label Punch just past the half way point. Using the Bone Folder, I flattend out the fold line. The Modern Label Punched background was created in the same way. Cool.....huh?!!

Thanks so much for stopping by today! Hope to see you here again soon.

Create a Cupcake

2011-01-16T02:23:00.004-05:00

Stampin'Up! has done it again! In the new Occasions Mini, there's a fun new punch that creates a cupcake....and a matching stamp set. How fun! Since cupcakes are EVERYWHERE lately, I just couldn't resist this new combo!!

I recently joined in a swap and this is what I submitted. I love Cherry Cobbler and Crumb Cake together....almost makes you hungry just talking about that color combo, doesn't it?!! And it just seemed perfect for this card.

As you can see, the cupcake is in the center of the square...it was first stamped, punched, and then assembled inside the oval. This was all layered onto the stamped, striped square (Solid Stripes) and then the scalloped square from the Scallop Squares Duo Die....which is, yes, still available! The Crumb Cake background was created by stamping that little cherry all around and then partially embossed with my very favorite embossing folder....the Square Lattice EF. All the new seam binding in the SU line is just so luscious and in this case, I used Cherry Cobbler.

So, what do you think? A cupcake for a grownup look!

Stamps: Create a Cupcake,
Inks: Cherry Cobbler, Crumb Cake (icing), Soft Suede (cake base, saying)
CS: Natural Ivory, Crumb Cake, Cherry Cobbler
Misc: Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding, Square Lattice EF, Scallop Square Duo Die, Build a Cupcake Punch, Wide Oval Punch, Word Window Punch

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Chocolate is my Favorite Food Group!

2011-01-15T16:23:00.004-05:00

.....and now there's even a chocolate stamp set! It's called Eat Chocolate...and I LOVE chocolate....and I'm thrilled that there is now a stamp set to match my passion for this food "group!" How fun! It's in the new Occasions Mini and will be available till April 30. (Did you get your mini yet?)

This is a sample I quickly made for a recent swap. Of course, the chocolate bonbon was stamped in Chocolate Chip, those little hearts were colored in with my Pretty in Pink marker and then I used my Versamarker over top of the entire image, embossed with Clear EP, cut out and mounted on a Dimensional. This was then layered over top of the stamped image on the punched tag. Oh, and to get that layered, two tone effect for the tag, I punched a second from Chocolate Chip and then cut it apart in a "X" formation. See each of the indentations at each of the "corners?" Well, I cut from "corner" to "corner" and then carefully adhere each section behind the white tag.

Since SU no longer has any Chocolate Chip colored ribbon, I punched my ribbon (now they have a few choices in Early Espresso, just not Chocolate Chip!). Simple, and pretty easy, don't you think?

Stamps: Eat Chocolate
Inks: Chocolate Chip
CS: Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Pretty in Pink
Punches: Designer Label Punch, Dotted Ribbon Scallop Border, Corner Rounder
Misc: Vintage Wallpaper EF, Big Shot, Dimensional, Pretty in Pink Marker, Versamarker, Clear Embossing Powder

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Bloggers' Challenge -- It's a Sketch!

2011-01-14T12:08:00.008-05:00

It's been awhile since I've been able to join in the fun with the Bloggers' Challenges. This week, Lisa, our list Mom, gave us a sketch. I kept pretty true to the original sketch and this is what I came up with.....although I have to admit to beginning with a completely different idea! Somehow this cute little guy just kept calling me....he needed to be inked!

That sweet little lamb is from Pun Fun, a set I haven't used in some time....not sure why, 'cause I really do enjoy working with each of the images. The face and heart were water colored in using markers and a blender pen....used the "marker off the lid" technique, an old standby. The heart (not sure you can tell) was glittered, as were the hearts on the impressed squarish panel background.

Not quite sure yet, but this may be one of my Valentine's cards this year ...I'm really happy with the way this came out....kinda sweet, don't you think?

Stamps: Pun Fun, Fabulous Phrases, Create a Cupcake (heart)
Inks: Basic Black Craft, Real Red Classic
CS: Whisper White, Basic Gray, Real Red
Misc: 1 3/4" Circle Punch, 2 3/8" Scallop Circle Punch, Word Window Punch, Corner Rounder Punch, Pinking Hearts Border Punch, Big Shot, Heart EF (non-SU), Perfect Polka Dots EF, Circles #2 Die (for red circle layer), Scallop Duo Die (still available!), Clear Embossing Powder, Real Red Mini Brads, Paper Piercer & Template, 2-Way Glue Pen, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Dimensionals (under scallop circle), Real Red Satin Ribbon, Stamp-a-ma-jig (couldn't live without it!!) , Blender Pen

Thanks so much for stopping by and visiting! Can't wait to see what the others have been up to....won't you join me? (See thumbnails below.)

On a Roll......

2011-01-13T22:36:00.003-05:00

Don't you just love this card? OK, I'm excited. It was so easy and if you really look at it, there's almost no stamping, but it's just so dang cute.....don't you agree?

This card features Sweet & Sour Specialty DSP....I'm thinking that it's a specialty paper because it is so textured. Most of the patterns feel like they've been embossed. And the colors are to die for! Gotta love Pumpkin Pie and Rose Red together....it's kind of like an updated version of one of my favorite pink and orange color combos....just more sophisticated!

Check out that adorable flower in the center.....created using Old Olive and that little stem/leaf stamp from Cheep Talk and then the flower brad was added. See the little pearl in the center.....now doesn't that just make it?!!

I do have a confession to make, though....the "welcome" is from a retired set, Warmest Wishes (but you can substitute any saying that you have) that has been gone for a bit. I tend to keep my word sets, so every once in awhile, they pop up here. Everything else is current in the SU catalog.

Anyway, thanks for stopping by. See? I told you I've been stamping while I was MIA! (And there's more to come!) See you soon....please come back and visit soon.

Stamps: Cheep Talk, Warmest Wishes*
Inks: Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive
CS: Whisper White, Rose Red
Misc: Square Scallop Punch, Scallop Border Punch, White Taffeta Ribbon, Pumpkin Pie Flower Brad (Brights Collection), Basic Pearls, Dimensionals, Sweet & Sour DSP

*Retired

I'm Back!

2011-01-09T23:25:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year.....Happy 2011! (A lot late!) Hopefully, you had a great holiday season filled with love of family and friends. Mine were fun but hectic....something many of you can probably relate to? Which is part of the reason I have been MIA for so long....along with computer problems AGAIN!!

But here I am....I'm back. Computer is fixed...some programs needed updating, so I can see there is going to be a learning curve. Life has settled down just a bit. And winter is here with a vengeance! I'm sorry if you've been stopping by and looking for new posts this past month....now it's time to post some goodies for you! (I may have been "gone," but I've definitely been stamping!)

This card was fun to make and a simple one, as well....and one I made for a new recruit. I pulled out my Elegant Trio stencils for the very first time. If you've ever stenciled....or even if you haven't....you really need to try this fun little technique! I simply adhered my stencil with a bit of Dotto (which is not permanent, and of course, removable) and sponged away using Crumb Cake ink and a sponge dauber. Then I stamped that sweet little frame from Charming, over top, added in a couple of Basic Pearls (LOVE these!), and then added that little saying, which is from Elements of Style, over top on a Dimensional. The bottom of the card features the beautiful Love Letters DSP, which I finally opened just for this card....don't know WHAT I was waiting for! Tied this all up with that cute, narrow ribbon, 1/8" Taffeta in Basic Black.

Fun to make....easy....and I used "new" stuff! Thanks so much for your past patience. I'm planning to post much more regularly, so I do hope you'll come back and visit! Thanks for stopping by today.

Stamps: Charming, Elements of Style

Inks: Crumb Cake, Basic Black, Riding Hood Red

CS: Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla

Misc: 1/8" Narrow Taffeta Ribbon in Basic Black, Elegant Trio Stencils, Basic Pearls, 1" Round Punch, Dimensional, Sponge Dauber, Love Letters DSP, Corner Rounder, Dotto

Santa Clause is Coming to Town!

2010-12-12T21:06:00.004-05:00

How are YOU doing on your Christmas preparations? I'm so behind! My to-do list is long....but I hope to get a good part of the items done this coming week! One of the many things on the list, is to get all my gift wrapping done. Since my kids are older, there aren't as many things to wrap...it seems like the older they get, the more expensive things get. So, naturally, there are fewer things to put under the tree! (See?! Not a difficult job at all!)

Well, this little package is one of the projects I made with my Stamp Club ladies awhile back...this little guy would be a fun addition to a gift to make it just a bit more special! Add in a sweet treat...or a gift card...and you are sure to be a hit! Simple to make.....but this is NOT my idea....just copied from one of the many I've seen floating around on the net.

I actually printed out directions on assembling this little package a few years back, but can't find the source. This time around, I just updated it with the Santa look. Check out all the punches used to create this festive look...there's NO stamping! Isn't he just the cutest?

Stamps: N/A
Inks: Pretty in Pink (for sponging on the face)
CS: Real Red, Very Vanilla, Whisper White, Basic Black
Punches: Word Window, 5 Petal Flower, Scallop Round, 1/2" Round, 1/4" Round*, Cropadile, Narrow Basic Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Hodgepodge Hardware (buckle)*, Silver Cord*, White Gel Pen
*Retired

Thanks so much for stopping by today and visiting!

Christmas Gifts with the Big Shot

2010-12-08T14:44:00.002-05:00

A few weeks back....it was just before Thanksgiving....I made up a few of these packages as gifts. There are sets of 4 coasters inside the box....and they were created with my Big Shot! I found the sparkly red and plain white felt at a craft store....don't they look festive? To create the simple coasters, each one was created by cutting out 5"x5" squares. I ironed a slightly smaller square of the Big Shot Adhesive Roll in between 2 scallop rounds. Then put each completed sandwich into the Big Shot with the Scallop Circle Die. The snowflakes was created by using just 1 layer of simple white felt, the Big Shot Adhesive Roll and the Snowflake Die. How easy, right?!!

The box bottom, which I know you cannot see well, was rolled with the now retired Bold Snowflakes Jumbo Wheel and Real Red ink......it just matched so perfectly, that I HAD to use that wheel!!

A clear window sheet was used to create the box top....it's just held together with Mini Glue Dots. That cute little tag was made with Real Red CS, the Simple Snowflake single stamp in Real Red ink, and the Snowflake Punch. Add in a little dazzle in the center with a Basic Rhinestone (LOVE those!!), and trim the edge with the Eyelet Border Punch and there it is! Not sure who will be getting these sets, but they'll be good to have on hand for those "just in case" gifts...hopefully, the recipients will like them!

Stamps: Simple Snowflake, Delightful Decorations, Bold Snowflake Jumbo Wheel*, Punch Pals (for the To/From stamped inside)

Inks: Real Red CS: Real Red, Whisper White, Window Sheet

Misc: Snowflake Punch, 1" & 3/4" Circle Punches, Basic Rhinestone, Eyelet Border Punch, Mistletoe Ribbon*, Scallop Circle Die, Snowflake Die, Big Shot Adhesive Roll, Big Shot

*Retired

Thanks so much for stopping by today.

Bloggers' Challenge -- Create a Christmas Ornament

2010-12-05T11:55:00.004-05:00

I was cruising the web recently, and found a blog that had beautiful ornaments. I finally gathered up all the needed supplies and then, wouldn't you know it...I couldn't find the blog! So, I think I sort of duplicated hers, but maybe not....I certainly tried. If you happen to have seen, or know of a blog where the owner created the look of old-fashioned mercury ornaments, please let me know! (I'd love to go back and visit....and, of course, give her credit!!)

It was easy to create this...I used a plain, glass ball from a craft store.
-First, rub it down with rubbing alcohol to be sure it's good and clean.
-Remove the cap.
-Then using a piece of felt, I wiped alcohol ink over the entire ball. I used Adirondak Carmel ink. (Set aside to dry for a bit....I was impatient, so I only waited about 10-15 minutes.
-Drop dots of ink onto the felt piece once again, and dab over the entire ball. The ink spreads and gives it a really pretty mottled look.
-Set aside to dry overnight.
(NOTE: I added in dabs of Silver Encore ink.....do NOT do this! Although it gives the ornament a wonderful glow, it simply does not dry. I knew this and thought it might work anyway on the glass....NOPE! It doesn't!! I had to spray it so it wouldn't be tacky.....and then it lost some luster.)

To decorate the top, I added a piece of SU retired silver cord (I sure hope they bring that back one day...my supply is running low!!). The bow is made with the fabulous Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding and Chantilly Lace. Top the bow with a Designer Button from the Holiday Mini in Cherry Cobbler, into which an Antique Brad was inserted. This was added to the bow with a Pop Up Glue Dot (now retired) and then I added in some leaves created with a now-retired Martha Stewart punch in Always Artichoke.

So, there it is....I'm loving the finished product and can't wait to see how it looks on my tree....which we are putting up today! Thanks so much for stopping by and please take some time to visit the other bloggers who participate in our Challenges. I can't wait to see what they have all come up with....see you there!

Christmas Towels

2010-12-01T21:42:00.005-05:00

Today was such a nasty day that my plans were cancelled. So, that meant I had a chance to spend time in my craft room. So, look what I made today! I've been wanting to try this ever since I bought the new Scallop Squares Duo Bigz Die. First, it took me some time to find the right towels....and even though I finally purchased these, they really weren't what I had in mind. But, I just couldn't seem to find plain white...or off white....kitchen towels anywhere! So, these were as close as I could get....at least there was no embellishments or other colors woven in.

Using the smaller of the 2 scallop squares on the die, I punched out a bunch of squares with my Big Shot. Do you recognize the fabric? These squares are from the Deck the Halls collection....there are 15 squares across each towel and I used each of the fabrics, but as you can see, every other one is the red pattern. These squares are really cute....a smaller version of the Clear Square Scallop used for the rag purses. And that's just how the embellishment was made....except, I didn't add a backing since the strip of squares was added to the towels. They still had a small square of cotton batting underneath (between the fabric and towel).

Anyway, I originally thought I'd give them as a gift, but now I'm thinking maybe I'll just keep them for myself!

Stamps: N/A
Inks: N/A
CS: N/A
Misc: Deck the Halls Designer Fabric, Scallop Squares Duo Bigz Die, Big Shot, Thread, Cotton Batting, Sewing Machine, Terry Kitchen Towels

Thanks for stopping by....these were fun to make!

Edited to add: GOOD NEWS! SU! just announced that the Scallop Square Duo Bigz Die will still be available after the Holiday Mini retires.

Vintage Thank You

2010-12-01T13:17:00.001-05:00

Taking a bit of a break from holiday-themed items! This was a recent submission for a small swap I was in. Come January, we'll be needing a few thank you cards, right? And that was the theme of the swap.

This was a fun one to make....as you can see, I used the Vintage Wallpaper EF in the background. See that it is 2-toned? Well, all I did was brayer on some Crumb Cake ink onto the folder and impress as usual onto a piece of Whisper White CS. Pretty cool, don't you think?!!

The remainder of the card should be pretty easy to figure out. I wanted just a pop of color so that it didn't look too manly, so the layer and ribbon in Daffodil Delight was added in. I really like how this one turned out!

Stamps: Elegant Engravings
Inks: Basic Black, Crumb Cake
CS: Whisper White, Basic Black, Crumb Cake, Daffodil Delight
Misc: Brayer, Big Shot, Vintage Wallpaper EF, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border, Daffodil Delight 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Mini Glue Dot

Thanks so much for stopping by today!

MaryJo's Challenge --- It's #150!!!

2010-11-29T09:20:00.002-05:00

I LOVE this sketch....it came together so easily and quickly this week. AND I truly didn't want to be late (like I usually am!) because this is a special week.....this is MaryJo's 150th Challenge! WOW! Way to go, MJ! (Have to admit that I missed a LOT of them....but couldn't miss this one!!)

Well, now that Thanksgiving is behind us, it's full speed ahead to Christmas time! So, Dasher is the focal point on this card.....he looks right at home here, don't you think?!! Of course, he needed a nose, so a Real Red Mini Brad was added in.....what you cannot see, and is just so dang pretty, is the Vanilla Shimmer Smooch that was sprayed over the stamped Whisper White layer, giving it a lovely, soft glow. The Soft Suede and Crumb Cake layers were stamped with Serene Snowflakes in White Craft....and a bit of Soft Suede added in on the Crumb Cake layer. All the edges on these two colors were softened by sponging with White Craft as well.

As you can see, I stayed very true to the original sketch, which you can see here. Even if these are not really traditional Christmas Card colors, I am thrilled with the overall look of this card.

Thanks for stopping by today! Don't forget to stop by MaryJo's and see who is participating this week.

Stamps: Dasher, Four the Holidays, Serene Snowflakes
Inks: Soft Suede, White Craft, Real Red*
CS: Whisper White, Cherry Cobbler, Soft Suede, Crumb Cake
Misc: Paper Piercer, Real Red Mini Brad, Square Punch**, Mini Glue Dots, Scallop Edge Punch, Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz

*Real Red ink when stamped on Crumb Cake matches. When Cherry Cobbler ink is stamped onto Crumb Cake CS, it is way too dark!

**Any Square Punch can be used to create the "flag" edges of the greeting. Just use the corner!

With Sympathy

2010-11-28T19:51:00.004-05:00

Just last week, the husband of an acquaintance passed away. In some ways, I know it was a blessing because he was suffering so much, BUT, to loose someone so close as we enter the holidays has to be the absolute worst time!

So, I needed to create a card....and I have to say, that these cards are definitely the most difficult to create. Of course, they should bring a small measure of comfort, but (IMHO) should not be full of bling or over the top. Well, this began as a much simpler card, but somehow evolved (don't they usually?!!) into what you see here. Still, I believe it's subdued enough for the theme.....and once her grief begins to subside just a bit, hopefully, she will appreciate the care and time it took to create. Not to mention, the beauty.....I have to say, I'm in LOVE with this color combo!!

I'm so excited because I finally used my new Bow Easy (a tool to make bows....not from SU!) to create that cute little bow....it took me quite a few tries to get the bow right....the mechanics kind of confused me and it's supposed to be so simple!! Guess I'm not very "mechanical!"

Thanks for stopping by today and making your visit a part of your busy day! Feel free to leave a comment to let me know what you think (I LOVE comments).

Stamps: Just Believe, In My Thoughts
Inks: Basic Black, Crumb Cake
CS: Whisper White, Basic Black, Cherry Cobbler, Crumb Cake
Misc: Large Oval Punch, Scallop Oval Punch, Dimensionals, Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding, Basic Pearls, Vintage Wallpaper EF, Big Shot, Bow Easy (non SU! item), Mini Glue Dots

Double Duty Challenge

2010-11-27T22:50:00.007-05:00

Here I am....finally! How was your Thanksgiving? Mine was busy and hectic....I hosted dinner for 20. I just love having my family around....my son and his new bride traveled up from Virginia; my one daughter was home from college; and 3 of my siblings came for the day along with their spouses and children and 1 grandchild (not mine)...oh, and my Mom, of course! It was mass confusion.....very noisy......but oh, so fun! BUT, along with that came lots of preparation....took me all week to clean the house, shop and prepare. Although, I really have to admit that I did no cooking the day of.....everyone brought something along and my son and new daughter in law cooked whatever needed to be prepared on Thursday and my daughters set up everything. I'm feeling so much better (finally....YAY!), but my stamina isn't back yet, which is kind of frustrating, because the mind is going at full speed, but the body just isn't.....yet!

So, with everything going on this past week, I just wasn't able to get into my stamp room, much less stamp! But, I actually caught a little quiet time earlier this evening and was able to sneak away and make a few cards....it felt so good to touch rubber again!

Without even realizing it, I accidentally combined two Challenges....which, yes, are both late! MaryJo's Sketch Challenge from last Monday has been rolling around in this old brain of mine and I finally decided to use buttons down the side. When I was deciding on colors, I wasn't thinking and just went with those from this past Friday's Bloggers' Challenge. So....we have two in one.....and I really wanted to make a card for each! Oh, well....whatever works, right?!!

You can see MaryJo's sketch here. And the challenge this week to the Bloggers' group was a color challenge: Rust, Blue, Mustard.....I used Not Quite Navy, Baja Breeze, Cajun Craze, More Mustard. These colors are really lovely together! For this card, I stamped the image a few times onto Whisper White in Versamark and embossed with Clear EP and sponged over top to get the colors I wanted/needed......not altogher happy with my sponging....something seems to be a off. But, still, it's OK, and to be honest, I didn't want to start all over again.....so, please be kind!

So, I hope you enjoyed your visit to my little blog today....thanks so much for stopping by. Please take a few minutes to stop by MaryJo's place to see who participated and what wonderful creations were contributed.....AND, of course, you can't miss the Bloggers'.....they are always so creative!

Stamps: Just Believe, Day of Gratitude
Inks: Versamark, Not Quite of Navy, More Mustard, Baja Breeze
CS: Not Quite Navy, Cajun Craze, Baja Breeze, Whisper White
Misc: Sponges, Clear EP, Small & Large Oval Punches, Dotted Scallop Border Punch, Linen Thread, Dimensionals, Not Quite Navy Buttons(retired), Mini Glue Dots

Beautiful Fall

2010-11-23T21:00:00.004-05:00

These two cards have been sitting on my shelf.....and since Thanksgiving is tomorrow, I thought that I really needed to share them with you! Neither was made by me.....aren't they both lovely?

This first one is one I received in exchange for my Fall Challenge card. I'm in love with this card! Look at those colors.....aren't they breathtaking?!! Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie and Rich Razzelberry set against Very Vanilla....just stunning! It's a fairly simple card....but the layout just sets off these images so well. I LOVE this, don't you?!! This set is so beautiful, but not one that I own, so I'm really happy to have it in my collection.

Stamps: Occasional Notes, French Foliage
Inks: Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Rich Razzelberry
CS: Rich Razzelberry, Old Olive, Very Vanilla
Misc: Wide Old Olive Grosgrain Ribbon, Scallop Border Punch

This second fall card is stunning in its simplicity.....it's from my upline. I lent her a few stamp sets and when she returned the sets, this was in the bag as well. Maybe I should lend her stamps more often, huh?!!

These leaves are just so gorgeous! Here they are stamped randomly on two sides of the card in Early Espresso, Pumpkin Pie, and Cajun Craze. So simple, but so pretty! Nicole set it all off with the Old Olive Grosgrain Ribbon and layered it against Old Olive and Cajun Craze CS. Can you say G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S?!!

Stamps: Autumn Splendor, Sincere Salutations
Inks: Early Espresso, Cajun Craze, Pumpkin Pie
CS: Cajun Craze, Old Olive, Very Vanilla
Misc: Wide Old Olive Grosgrain Ribbon

Aren't I lucky to have received them both? And aren't you glad I decided to share?

Thanks so much for stopping by today. I want to take this opportunity to wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving....hope you get to spend it with those you love! Be safe and enjoy.

Easy Peasy Bookmark

2010-11-21T11:42:00.002-05:00

A few weeks back I met with my stamp club....we hadn't seen each other in a long, long time. Between my son's wedding in May and my knee surgery in July and then recovery, I just haven't been as available as I wanted to be. BUT, it was fun to see them all again and spend some time stamping together....they are a great group!

So, when we met, they wanted holiday projects. This was one of our projects. This bookmark has been floating around on the net for a long time, but it's the first I had tried it.....and it's just so stinkin' easy! A couple folds, a little layering and it was complete. For those that aren't familiar with this type of bookmark, there's a little flap in the back to fit over a page corner. Since my ladies all have school-age children, I thought this might be a fun little gift for a teacher....just add in a gift certificate to a local book store, and it's done! (They loved this idea!)

Stamps: Just Believe
Inks: Cherry Cobbler
CS: Very Vanilla, Garden Green, Cherry Cobbler
Misc: Garden Green & Cherry Cobbler Markers, Finial Press Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Scallop Trim Border, Chantilly Lace

Thanks so much for stopping by today...catch you again soon!