Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays Everyone! For those of you stealing a few minutes away today, thanks for stopping by. I hope you are enjoying the day with family and friends.

I started my business this year and wanted a card to send out to all of my wonderful customers that supported me as I got it under way. I needed about 15, so I wanted a pretty simple design to mass produce.

This DSP is from the Bella Bleu pack. I had seen them used together in the current mini catalog and just hadn't had a chance to put them together. I tried them with Kraft, but there wasn't enough contrast for me, so I pulled out the Soft Suede. It seems to have become a winter favorite of mine *wink*.

The circle was cut and embossed with my Nesties. Have I mentioned how much I LOVE them??? I discovered one more little trick last night. I left the circle in the die after I embossed it and stamped my images. This allowed me to stamp within my embossed area. You can use this technique if you want to sponge or chalk inside the embossed edge. So many options with these guys.

If you're one of my wonderful customers, your own personal card is on it's way!

I hope they like it....TFL!

Stamps: Serene Snowflakes & Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: Very Vanilla & Soft Suede Cardstock; Soft Suede Textured Cardstock; Bella Bleu DSP
Ink: Night of Navy Classic Pad & Whisper White Craft Pad
Accessories: Navy Satin Ribbon, Corner Rounder, Clear Rhinestone Brads & Circle Nestabilities

Mojo 118: Warm Suede Thoughts

I have officially put Christmas behind me and moved on to New Year's. I finally have some free time to play, so I settled in with this week's Mojo Challenge.

It was easy to get started on this one. I wanted to use the metallic prints from the Christmas Cocoa DSP. They pair ever so nicely with the Soft Suede.

I used my new circle nesties for the circles. I must say I love these. I embossed the smaller circle, but I don't have the tan mat yet, so I improvised. I'm hoping the embossing is a little more pronounced when I get it. The snowflake was pretty on its own, but I had to bling it up. I used some small clear rhinestones and they are the perfect touch!

I had the hardest time finding a sentiment to add to the card. I have a Happy New Year's stamp, but it was too small. After going through e-a-c-h stamp set I have, I settled on the sentiment from an oldie but goodie: Like it a Latte. I learned that you never know when you'll pull out that older stamp set ;)

Hope you like it....TFL!

Stamps: Serene Snowflakes & Like it a Latte (Retired)
Paper: Soft Suede & Whisper White Cardstock; Christmas Cocoa DSP
Ink: Soft Suede & Chocolate Chip Classic Pads
Accessories: Brown Satin Ribbon, Paper Piercer & Mat Pad, Brown Brad, Clear Rhinestones, Circle Nestabilities

Merry Moments Tags

Who doesn't love cookies??? My family truly does!! Each year at this time, we tend to make more cookies than we could ever possibly eat over a 3-day period. I'm hoping to actually share some of these sweet treats with some friends. These tags will dress up the treats perfectly.

I have been seeing tags all over the blogosphere, so I had to give them a try. I don't have any tag dies, so I improvised. The larger one was cut into a rectangular shape and I used a corner rounder on the edges. The smaller tag was cut using my *brand new* Oval Nestabilities....love these! I will finally be retiring my Good Ol' Creative Memories cutting system for good ;)

The DSP is from the Merry Moments pack. I accessorized each tag with my Snowflake Punch. I left the Chocolate Chip snowflake as is, but blinged up the Very Vanilla one. I used my two-way glue pen to add some Dazzling Diamonds to the large flake and used some Stickles on the smaller ones. It adds just enough sparkle!

There's still time to whip up some of your own tags, so give it a shot! TFL!

Stamps: Season of Friendship, Serene Snowflakes & All Holidays
Paper: Real Red, Chocolate Chip and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Merry Moments DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Pad
Accessories: Snowflake Punch, Round Tab Punch, Corner Rounder, 1/16" Circle Punch, Scallop Edge Punch, Oval Nestabilities, Sponges, Brads, Button Latte, Chocolate Chip 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Linen Thread, Two-Way Glue Pen, Dazzling Diamonds, Diamond Stickles, Mini Glue Dots & Dimensionals (Pop Dots).

Christmas Cocoa Holder

I needed a gift card holder for Book Club and, of course, I waited till the last minute ;) In the hour between I got home from school and my son's football practice, I whipped this up.

The template is the same as the gift card holder on an earlier post. The DSP is from the Christmas Cocoa pack. This sheet of paper is flocked and has a velvety feel to it. It's a nice little unexpected surprise as you open the holder up.

This paper pack also features some metallic touches as well. I'm going to use these for some New Year's Cards. But, the nice thing is, the Real Red sheets have a Damask design, so they can be used for cards other than the holidays. This pack is only on sale through January 4th, so if you're interested in purchasing it, just let me know ;)

TFL!

Stamps: Season of Friendship
Paper: Whisper White Cardstock & Christmas Cocoa DSP
Ink: Real Red Classic Pad
Accessories: Real Red Marker, Real Red Ribbon, Scallop Edge Punch & Slit Punch

Night & Day Tin

I am lucky enough to have many different friends throwing goodies at me and saying, "What can I do with this?" This is one of those goodies. How many of us have plain old tins in our craft room just waiting to be transformed?

These are great as gifts for friends, teachers and if you are a teacher, for parent volunteers. They are easy and super inexpensive to make.

For my tin, I pulled out my SU! Night and Day DSP that I haven't used yet. This
was the perfect opportunity!

There is a great tutorial on Splitcoast for these tins: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/resources/tutorials/alteredtin/. First, you need to measure the width of the tin and cut your paper to size. More than likely, a 12x12 strip will not be long enough to cover the circumference of the tin, so you cut a strip to fill the gap. You then adhere these strips with Tacky Tape or any strong two-sided tape.

Next, you choose a coordinating ribbon, trim to size and attach it to the lid. You can then decorate the lid in any way you wish. I added a flower that I saw over at Wendy Smedley's website: http://wendysmedley.typepad.com/possibilities/2009/11/week-of-gratitude-bouquet.html. These are adorable and it's yet another way to make use of our punches. It's a win-win.

Hope you like it....TFL!

Stamps: None
Paper: Night & Day DSP
Ink: None
Accessories: Circle Nesties, Scallop Circle Punch, Ribbon, Black Brad, 1/16" Circle Punch and Sticky Strip

Bermuda Suede Birthday

I needed a birthday card for my 11-year-old nephew and this is what I whipped up. If you're like me, making masculine cards is a challenge. It seems to go against everything card making is about ;)

I knew what color palette I wanted to start with: Soft Suede and Bermuda Bay. I also knew I wanted to keep it simple, as he is 11 and is the card really important at that age??? It's what's inside that matters ;)

I stamped the presents as the focal image. I also stamped a second set, cut them out and popped them up on top of the original presents creating a 3-D look. I added some piercing and reversed the Polka Dot Soft Suede ribbon and I was done. Hope he likes it...TFL!

Stamps: Birthday Whimzy (Retired) & Darling Dots (Retired Hostess Set)
Paper: Soft Suede, Bermuda Bay and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Soft Suede, Bermuda Bay & Crushed Curry Classic Stamp Pads
Accessories: Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Scallop Edge Punch and Dimensionals (Pop Dots)

Very Merry Gift Card Holder

Who doesn't need a gift card holder for the holidays? This one is simple and easy to make. Of course, I couldn't have an upload without having a Kraft project to show ;)

I love the the Kraft, Real Red and Whisper White Color Combo. They work so well together and were my beginning inspiration for the project.

To make the holder, choose your base cardstock and cut to 4" x 6 3/4". Score the cardstock at 2 1/2" and 5". These will be your folds for the holder.
My ribbon goes through the folds of the card holder to tie it together. I created slits for the ribbon by placing my scored edge in my paper trimmer and cutting a 1/2" slit about 2/3 of the way across the score line. Just be sure you do the slits in the same spot on both score lines. This will allow you to pull the ribbon in on one end and out the other to tie the card holder closed.

I used the Slit Punch to create the gift card slots. I laid a gift card down and marked the edges 1/8" longer on each side. Place the edge of the Slit Punch on this line and punch. Erase your pencil marks and you're good to go. If you don't have the Slit Punch, you can adhere the gift card with some adhesive or glue dots. They will work just as well ;)

These are much more fun that the gift card holder you get with the card. Impress someone this season and make theirs unique!

TFL!

Stamps: Season of Friendship & Short & Sweet
Paper: Kraft Cardstock
Ink: Real Red Classic Stamp Pad & Whisper White Craft Stamp Pad
Accessories: Scallop Edge Punch, Signo Gel Pen, Slit Punch and Ribbon

Sweet 'Ol Santa

Some may think that following 80 different blogs is a bit much....but, I tend to disagree *hee hee*. How else would I have found this cute little ol' guy??

Angie Juda over at Chic 'n Scratch is amazing! She is constantly reinventing herself. How she can sit down with 8 punches and come out with this is just mind boggling. She has a fantastic video on how to assemble him at: http://chicnscratch.typepad.com/chicnscratchlive/2009/11/punch-art-santa-video.html.

I added my Santa to a snack pouch. These are super easy to make and if you need a lot of them, the perfect choice. Pick your cardstock and cut to 2 3/4 x 8 1/2. Score at 3 3/4 and 4 3/4. Fold at the score lines and staple at the top. We will be covering your staple with some Designer Series Paper. Pick one that coordinates with your cardstock and cut to 2 1/2 x 3 1/2. My mat for Santa was cut to 2 1/4 x 3 1/4.

I've been growing my collection of punches over the years and love to find new ways to use them. I must say...this is the most I've ever used at one time! If you're interested in your own Santa and don't have the punches, I'd be more than happy to put a kit together for you. Just pop me an email.

TFL!

Stamps: None
Paper: Real Red, Garden Green, Pretty in Pink, Blush Blossom Basic Black and Whisper White Cardstock; Merry Moments DSP
Ink: Creamy Caramel & Basic Black Classic Stamp Pads
Accessories: Chocolate Chip Marker, Signo Gel Pen, Chalks, Sponges, Ticket Corner Punch,
Scallop Circle Punch, Small & Large Oval Punches, Full Heart Punch, Word Window Punch, 1/4" Circle Hole Punch, 1/2" Circle Punch and the 1 3/8" Circle Punch

Snowflake Joy

My friend Yolie gave me a box full of transparencies and told to create something fun with them. I took on that challenge and stumbled upon this card at: http://lovetostampandscrap.blogspot.com/2009/08/welcome-to-stampin-addicts-holiday-mini.html.I kept pretty true to the original design, but switched it up a little.

If you've never used acetate (transparencies), it's very easy. You cut it in exactly the same way you would your paper with your paper cutter. I scored it with my scorer and finished it off with my bone folder.

I stamped the snowflake images with a Stazon ink pad. You will need this type of ink or a Stampin Up Craft ink for the acetate surface. The Stazon dries very quickly and is what I prefer to use.

This is the inside of the card. Since you are using a clear card base, when adhering your focal image to the front of the card, you will be able to see the adhesive on the inside. You can fix that by adding a focal image on the inside of the card in the exact same spot as the image on the front cover. Problem solved!

What a fun and unique card to give someone! I still have a ton of transparencies, so I see many more acetate cards in my future.

Hope you'll try it out too. TFL!

Stamps: Serene Snowflakes & Delightful Decorations
Paper: Bashful Blue, Night of Navy, Brushed Silver & Whisper White Cardstock; Acetate (Transparencies for the card base)
Ink: Bashful Blue, Brocade Blue & Night of Navy Classic Ink Pads; Stazon White Pad
Accessories: Ornament Punch & Dimensionals (Pop Dots)

Delightful Decorations

I saw this card over at http://www.stampinchic.com/2009/08/ornament-trio.html and new I had to use it for the third card of my Stamp-A-Stack. The colors are definitely not your traditional holiday colors...but who says they have to be???

I did make a few minor changes: I added some piercing, some silver elastic cord and used the movers and shapers die to coordinate with my modern label punch and sentiment.

The Bermuda Bay and Rich Razzleberry are our new In Colors and it's nice that they pair so nicely with an oldie but goodie Old Olive. They work so well together.

TFL!

Stamps: Delightful Decorations & Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: Bermuda Bay, Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Bermuda Bay, Rich Razzleberry and Old Olive Classic Stamp Pads
Accessories: Ornament Punch, Eyelet Border Punch, 1/16" Circle Punch, Mat Pack & Paper Piercer, 1/2" Rich Razzleberry Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon, Silver Elastic Cording and Pop Dots/Dimensionals

Snowy Days, Frosty Nights, Warm Hearts

Frosty nights are finally here in AZ. Although we won't get snow in Chandler, I still love Snowmen. I've had this stamp set for years and haven't used it much. I pulled it out for the second card of my Stamp-A-Stack workshop.

This card is one of my favorites. I love the patterned paper and how everything works together. I also got to color a little....and who doesn't enjoy that???

Hopefully it gets you in the mood for a little cooler weather ;)

TFL!

Stamps: Season of Friendship & The World Over (Retired)
Paper: Real Red, Chocolate Chip and Whisper White Cardstock; Merry Moments DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip & Real Red Classic Stamp Pads
Accessories: Snowflake Embossing Envelope, Real Red Brad, SU! Snowflake Punch, Real Red 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, 1" Circle Punch, a sponge, Pop Dots/Dimensionals and the Chocolate Chip, Real Red and Old Olive Stampin' Write Markers

Very Merry Trees

I love the simplicity of Kraft cardstock. Pair it with some Very Vanilla and Garden Green cardstock and you have a simply sweet holiday card.

This is one of the cards I featured at my Stamp A Stack last week. I used a Versamark pad to stamp the snowflakes in the background. The rolling hills were cut and the edges were drizzled with Crystal Effects and dusted with Diamond Dust. It gives the effect of glistening snow. Love it! I finished it off with some piercing and a button.

TFL!

Stamps: Patterned Pines, Short & Sweet & Serene Snowflakes
Paper: Kraft and Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink: Garden Green Classic Stamp Pad & Versamark
Accessories: Crystal Effects, Diamond Dust, Green Button, Linen Thread, Mat Pack and Paper Piercer

Boutique Make N Take

This was a quick Make N Take that I offered at my Boutique table today. Just a little something quick and easy to try out stamping.

The card was gift sized and could be added to any holiday present.

Stamps: Delightful Decorations, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: Real Red & Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Real Red Classic Stamp Pad
Accessories: Ticket Corner Punch, Ornament Punch, Silver Elastic Cord and Pop Dots/Dimensionals.

TFL!

My First Boutique!

Happy Saturday Everyone! It has been quite a while since I posted, so I thought it was definitely time ;) I did my first boutique today and had a really good time. It wasn't nearly as stressful as I was making it out to be. It was held close to home at Blackbird Music and Art Center in Queen Creek, which couldn't have been more perfect for my cards, since they are my own form of art ;)

I took all of my cards and projects to show as samples and even sold a few. I got a couple of perspective customers, so we may be seeing some new faces at the workshops. I hope they'll join us and try it out!

The best news of the day though, was that I got invited back to teach some card classes at the center. I am very excited and looking forward to sharing my passion with others in the Queen Creek area. So, if you're out there, keep an eye out for some upcoming classes.

Thanks for stopping by!

Decorative Mini Pumpkins

Are these the cutest pair of pumpkins you have ever seen? Yet another way to use our punches. These are made with the Scallop Oval Punch. For the tall pumpkin, the ovals are folded vertically. For the smaller pumpkin, they are folded in half horizontally.

Punch (11) Scallop Ovals from your cardstock. Sponge the edges with Creamy Caramel Ink. Fold all (11) ovals in half, with the sponging on the inside. Apply adhesive to one outside edge of the folded oval and attach the backside of another oval. Continue until they are all connected like an accordian and you can adhere the last two edges together. Your sponged edges should be facing out when completed. Roll a small piece of Chocolate Chip cardstock for the stem and stick in the top hole. Curl some Old Olive Cardstock for the vine/leaf and adhere in the top hole.

The small pumpkin is the most level and is easy to stand up. I am still challenged with getting the taller pumpkin to stand alone, but wanted to share it as an alternate option.

Use these for place settings or just decorations around the house.

TFL!

Stamps: None
Paper: Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Chip and Old Olive Cardstock
Ink: Creamy Caramel Classic Stamp Pad
Accessories: Scalloped Oval Punch & Sponges

Oval Punched Pumpkins

Who doesn't love pumpkins: Pumpkin Pie, Pumpkin Cookies, Pumpkin Roll & 3-D Pumpkins for your cards??? These are super cute and can be made from any orange cardstock or designer paper.

This is a good example of how to use those punches we collect. These use the Small and Large Oval Punches. Punch 3 same size ovals out of your paper. Adhere two of the ovals by slightly overlapping them. Then, take the third oval and adhere it with a pop dot in the center of the other two ovals. Adhere some ribbon for the stem and curl some cardstock for the leaf and you have pumpkins. I made one large and two small pumpkins for this card.

Love them!!!
TFL

Stamps: Holiday Best (Hostess Set)
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Pumpkin Pie Patterns DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Stamp Pad
Accessories: Swiss Dots Embossing Envelope, Chocolate Chip Brads, Mat Pack & Paper Piercer, 1/4" Old Olive and Chocolate Chip Ribbon and the Small & Large Oval Punches.

Bashful Fall Leaves

A friend of mine sent me a project idea for these leaves...and I knew I had to try them. I cut a pair of each leaf out of old book pages (Persuasion by Jane Austen, if you must know), adhered them together and traced the edges with Platinum Stickles. They are absolutely beautiful!

I experimented with many different color combos, but decided on Kraft, Soft Suede and Bashful Blue. I think it works *wink*. The colors are not your traditional fall colors, but now-a-days we're experimenting more and thinking outside the box. Give it a try on your next Holiday card. Use some colors you normally wouldn't!

Hope you like it & TFL!

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: Kraft, Soft Suede, Whisper White, Blue Designer Paper & some Old Book Pages
Ink: Soft Suede Classic Stamp Pad
Accessories: Leaf Dies, Eyelet Border Punch, Platinum Stickles, Bashful Blue 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon and 1/2" Soft Suede Polka Dot Ribbon.

Halloween Treats Galore!

These are the last of the Halloween Treats that I made for the school staff....and my last official Halloween Post! I made about 50 of these and it took no time at all. They can be stuffed with Individual Reese's Cups or Treat Size M&M's.

You cut your cardstock to 8 1/2" x 2 3/4". You then score at 3 3/4" and 4 3/4". Fold on the score lines and staple at the top. So Easy!! The front is then covered with Designer Paper and a focal image. The Designer Paper gets cut to 2 1/2" x 3 1/2".

These could also be used for any holiday treat. The options are endless!
TFL!

Stamps: Batty for You
Paper: Basic Black, Whisper White, Night & Day DSP & Cast-A-Spell DSP
Ink: Old Olive & Basic Black Classic Stamp Pads
Accessories: Staples/Stapler, Scallop Circle Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch and Olive Olive, Basic Black and Elegant Eggplant 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon.

Halloween Friends

Well friends, it has been far too long since I have posted! I was busy with our school's Fall Festival and then rolled right into making Halloween treats for the school staff. I made 15 of each of these and the Frankenstein box. They were just too cute and I couldn't resist.

These are really very easy to make. I could type up directions, but with the cutting, scoring and adhering, a video works much better. Angie Juda over at Chic 'N Scratch has a great one, so pop on over and check it out: http://chicnscratch.typepad.com/chicnscratchlive/2009/09/little-halloween-box.html

These can easily be converted to a Christmas/Winter theme....the options are endless!
Hope you enjoy!

Mummy Details
Stamps: None
Paper: Creamy Caramel (Base), Very Vanilla, Basic Black and Whisper White
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Ink Pad
Accessories: Sponge, 1/2" Circle Punch, Hole Punch, Pop Dots and a Black Marker

Dracula Details
Stamps: None
Paper: Almost Amethyst, Real Red, Basic Black and Whisper White
Ink: None
Accessories: Hole Punch, 1/2", 3/'4 & 1 1/4" Circle Punches, a Star Punch, Pop Dots & a Black Marker

A Batty Birthday

And I thought I was done with Halloween...No siree! My nephew has a birthday next week and since I have no stamp sets for a 14-Year-Old boy, I had to improvise. His birthday's in October, so Halloween qualifies, right????

I started with a Jodi Collins sketch over at There She Goes. She is the Featured Trendsetter this week and gives some awesome tips on Paper Piercing. I know all my girls love piercing *wink*!

This week, I wanted to create a pennant banner. I could definitely work it into this sketch, so I was one happy girl. I saw a quick tutorial that makes creating these very easy. Start by cutting a rectangle the size you'd like your pennant to be. The purple cardstock was cut to 1" x 2". I then marked the 1" side in the middle. I lined up that middle dot with the opposite corner of the cardstock in my paper trimmer and sliced away. I did the same with the opposite corner and it cuts perfectly. I cut the designer paper 1/4" bigger to create a mat for the purple cardstock.

The possibilities with the pennants are endless. Give them a try! TFL!

Stamps: Riveting & Doodle Alphabet
Paper: Elegant Eggplant, Basic Black and Gray Cardstock; Various Halloween Papers
Ink: Basic Black Classic Ink
Accessories: Paper Piercer/Mat Pack, 1 1/4" & 1 3/8" Circle Punches, Black Brads, Bat Brads and Black Twine.

Olive Stitched Thanksgiving

Well, this was a bugger of a card to get made! I started the week out working on the Mojo Challenge, but then stumbled upon this stitched pumpkin...and the rest is history.

He is the cutest thing and 'sew' (pun intended..hee hee) easy to make. Punch out a circle using the 1 3/8" circle punch, then using your paper piercer, pierce around the edge (be sure you end up with an even amount of holes.) Grab a needle, thread it up and sew through the holes. Who knew???

I have tons of DMC floss from my cross-stitching days, so I grabbed one that matched the Old Olive Ribbon and stitched away. If you don't have floss, it can be purchased at any Craft Store, is very inexpensive and comes in many, many colors. I used two strings of the floss to sew.

To finish out the card, I used the retired SU! Stitched background stamp. It seemed only fitting with my sewn pumpkin. I also added a clear button to the ribbon, because if you didn't know, buttons are the new must have accessory!

I love how this turned out....it just took a while to get there ;) If you love it too, I will make this available as a Make & Take kit at my Open House on Saturday, October 17th for $3. Stop by and pick one up.

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes & Stitched (Retired SU!)
Paper: Very Vanilla, Old Olive & Dusty Durango Cardstock; Fall DSP
Ink: Old Olive Classic Stamp Pad
Accessories: 1 3/8" Circle Punch, Paper Piercer, Old Olive 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, SU! Clear Buttons, Linen Thread, Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots, DMC Floss and a Small Needle

Mojo Monday Challenge - Baby Boy

I am on a roll with the Mojo Challenges! This is my third one in a row....WooHoo! I needed a Baby Boy card for a teacher's gift at school and having a sketch to start with made it sooo easy. I did do a little cheating with the sketch (shhh....don't tell.) The circle image didn't work to the right of my Bunny, so I switched it to the left. Since having to swap that, I moved my bow to the other side as well.

For my patterned paper, I used the Retired Parisian Breeze, as it is one of the few masculine sets of paper that I have. It's perfect for a masculine adult or baby card. You should always have a stash of 'Boy' paper laying around ;)

Next, I had to pick a focal image. I pulled out all of the baby themed stamp sets I had and looked for the biggest image I could find. It happened to be this Bunny from the Retired set A New Little Someone. This set just happens to be on loan from my mom until she gets her craft room in order. It fits perfectly. I stamped the image on two different pieces of the Parisian Breeze Designer Paper, cut out the Bunny and the Bow and paper pieced them together. Love it! He is just adorable.

This was a fun card to make. I hope she likes it!

Stamps: A New Little Someone & So Many Scallops (Both Retired SU!)
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Baja Breeze and Whisper White Cardstock; Parisian Breeze DSP (Baja Breeze & Parisian Breeze are both Retired)
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Stamp Pad
Accessories: Paper Piercer and Mat Pack, Jumbo Brads, Scallop Circle Punch, 1 1/4" & 1 3/8" Circle Punches, Retired Valet Ribbon Originals, Sponges and Paisley Embossing Envelope

Sweet Center Lollipop

Isn't this just too cute? This is the third project we made at my last workshop. It's made with the new Sweet Treat Cups from the Stampin Up Holiday Mini. I made a lollipop and filled my cup with Nerds, but you could fill it with jelly beans, glitter or any other treat you can think of. The possibilities are endless.

The coordinating Stamp Set is called Sweet Centers (also in the Mini.) It includes the Halloween stamp featured here, a Hot Air Balloon, an Ornament and Flower Petal stamps. Once stamped, a circle is punched out with the 1 3/4" Circle Punch for the Treat Cup to be added. The cup has it's own adhesive, so once it's filled and in place, you just add a piece of cardstock to the back to seal it up. It can then be added to a card or made into individual treats.

I saw this idea over at My Life's Art by Teresa Payne. She has an awesome video tutorial if you'd like to check it out: http://www.mylifesart.com/2009/08/new-product-sweet-treat-cups.html. It's very fun and easy to make! TFL.

Stamps: Sweet Centers
Paper: Whisper White, Elegant Eggplant & Old Olive Cardstock
Ink: Elegant Eggplant & Old Olive Classic Stamp Pads
Accessories: Sweet Treat Cups, 1 3/4" & 1 3/8" Circle Punches, Old Olive 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Sticky Strip, Lollipop Sticks and Googly Eyes.

Deal of the Week #1

Who doesn't love a deal? I know I do! Stampin Up has brought back the Deal of the Week for the month of October. Each deal will run a week and there are no quantity limits or minimum purchases.

The first Deal of the Week features three punches and is available till Monday, October 12th:

Item# 109183 Trio Flower Punch $15.95 Special Price $10.99
Item# 109041 5-Petal Flower Punch $15.95 Special Price $10.99
Item# 110709 My Way Punch $15.95 Special Price $11.99

The punches can be found in the catalog on pgs 186-187.

Please contact me to place an order or order online by clicking on the Order icon in the right sidebar. Thanks!

Oh Mummy!

Isn't he just the cutest??? He was created by Angie Juda over at Chic' N Scratch Live. We will be making him at my workshop on 10/1, but if you would like a tutorial, a video can be found at Angie's website: http://chicnscratch.typepad.com/chicnscratchlive/2009/08/mummy-candy-bar-holder.html.

As with the Frankenstein treat bag we'll be making at the workshop, this does not need a die cut or a template. It's just cardstock that is cut, scored and folded. The Creamy Caramel is the base and is cut at 10"x 2 1/2". It is then scored at 2 3/16", 2 11/16", 6 1/8", and 6 5/8". The Very Vanilla is used for the mummy wrap and is torn from a strip 2 1/2" wide, sponged and adhered to the Creamy Caramel.

This can hold any mini size candy bar. I used a Kit-Kat, but it could also hold a Hershey Bar as well. I punched a hole with the Modern Label Punch and slid the candy bar in. The top flap is held down with a mini glue dot.

I love it because it's quick and easy and you don't need any fancy gadgets ;)
TFL!


Stamps: None
Paper: Creamy Caramel, Very Vanilla, Basic Black and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Stamp Pad
Accessories: Scoring Tool, Sponges, Modern Label Punch, 1/2" Circle Punch, 1/4" Hole Punch, Mini Glue Dot, Black Marker & a Mini Candy Bar.

Did Someone Say Clearance?

Stampin' Up! sure did! They have launched a new Clearance Rack on their Online Store. All of the items are retired or discontinued and available at substantially reduced prices. Quantities are limited and while supplies last. New products will be added often, so you'll want to check back periodically.

• Click on the 'Order Stampin' Up! Online' icon to the right
• Click Products/Shop Now
• The Clearance Rack is on the Left Side Bar

Be sure to check it out...you never know what you'll find!
Thanks for stopping by.

Mojo Monday Challenge - Raspberry Tart Boutique

I saw the sketch over at Mojo Monday and knew I had to pull out my retired Raspberry Tart DSP from Stampin' Up! I LOVE this paper and will be sad when mine's all gone, but couldn't resist using it. Let this be inspiration to all of you...don't save it for a rainy day *wink*.

This challenge actually came together pretty quick for me. I decided on the papers I wanted to use for my circles, pulled out my Rose Red & Old Olive Ribbons, and knew that the Humor in High Heels stamp set would be just perfect! I love this dress and the designs in the DSP are perfect for recreating a fabric look. I did, however, have a huge white space at the top of my card that was throwing off the balance. I slept on it and woke up fresh this morning looking for ideas. I saw a scalloped edge on another card and thought layering mine might create a nice effect for the card. I needed something and I think this works. It reminds me of a cute boutique awning, which is just perfect for putting this dress center stage.

To finish it off, I added lots of bling and tied two elegant little bows to the center ribbons.

Thanks for stopping by....and hope you like it!

Stamps: Humor in High Heels & All Holidays
Paper: Kiwi Kiss, Rose Red & Whisper White Cardstock; Raspberry Tart DSP
Ink: Basic Black Classic Stamp Pad
Accessories: 1" Rose Red Double Stitched Ribbon, 1/4" Old Olive Grosgrain Ribbon, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, 1 1/4" & 1 3/8" Circle Punches, Scalloped Edge Punch, Dimensionals and Clear Rhinestones

Mojo Monday Challenge: Rich Elegant Christmas

As my Darling Husband pointed out, this is not your traditional holiday card, but I think it works!

My sketch was inspired by the Mojo Monday Sketch Challenge #104 at http://mojomonday.blogspot.com/. Although this isn't true to the sketch, I'm hoping it's close enough. It's supposed to inspire us, right???

I love this color combo: Rich Razzleberry, Basic Black and Whisper White. It's so elegant and makes for a very sophisticated card.

I've also been wanting to put some patterns down on paper using stamps. SU's Circle Circus is perfect for doing just that! I used two different stamps from this set. For the horizontal design, I stamped Rich Razzleberry Ink onto the Rich Razzleberry cardstock. For the Circle design, I stamped Basic Black Ink onto the Rich Razzleberry cardstock. I love how they turned out and hopefully it inspires you to create some designs with your stamps.

TFL & Enjoy the rest of your day!

Stamps: Circle Circus & All Holidays
Paper: Rich Razzleberry, Basic Black and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Rich Razzleberry and Basic Black Classic Stamp Pads
Accessories: Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Black Satin Ribbon, Swiss Dots Embossing Folder and Dimensionals.

New Email Feature

Hello Friends,

No new card to post today...I have one that I've been working on all week, but I've been under the weather and busy with PTO duties, so it's become the red-headed stepchild :( But, keep an eye out for it on Sunday!

I wanted to share a new feature to my blog: an Email Feed. It is located in the right hand column. If you subscribe to the Feed, it will email you when I have a new post. This is perfect if you don't visit my blog everyday (as I don't post everyday), but want to keep up with what's going on.

Hope you'll try it out!

Mr Frankenstein to You....

Happy Monday!

I was blurfing today and came across this little cutie over at Angie Kennedy's Blog: Chic 'N Scratch. Isn't he just adorable? Perfect for some chocolate snacks for your child's teacher or quick and easy enough for treats for the whole class!

Since my next workshop is 10/1, we will definitely be making 'Frankie' as one of our projects. With the right supplies and some cutting and scoring, he is so very simple to make. You will be amazed!

Stamps: None!
Paper: Old Olive, Whisper White and Basic Black Cardstock
Ink: Basic Black Stamp Pad
Accessories: Scoring Blade, 1/2" Circle Punch, 3/4" Circle Punch, Sponges, Dimensionals & Scissors

Crushed Suede Thanksgiving

Although it's still over 100 degrees in Arizona, I'm trying to transition to fall colors. Here's my first go at our new In Colors: Soft Suede, Dusty Durango and Crushed Curry. They are just perfect for Fall!

I haven't ordered any new fall themed stamp sets YET, so I had to go into the archives for this one. This is the Season of Friendship Set and it can literally be used for every season: Flowers for Spring, Snowflakes for Winter, Leaves for Fall and a cute little bird to throw in any time ;)

I chose to use the leaves and stamped them in the Crushed Curry and Dusty Durango. The tree is stamped in Soft Suede. I ordered the Soft Suede Ribbon last week, but haven't received it yet, so I had to go a different route for my focal image. I've seen 'banners' popping up all over blogs, so I thought I would give one a try. I just cut a strip of cardstock, measured in about an inch, scored a line, measured in another 1/4 inch and scored again. Then, repeat on the other end. This creates a fold so the banner can pop up. I clipped the ends and added buttons, and Ta-Da, a banner is born!

Hope you like it! TFL.

Stamps: Season of Friendship & Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: Soft Suede, Dusty Durango and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Soft Suede, Dusty Durango and Crushed Curry Classic Pads
Accessories: Piercing Tool and Mat Pack, Hemp Twine, Modern Label Punch, Movers & Shapers, Designer Buttons-Buttons Latte

Vintage Best Wishes

Happy Football Sunday Everyone! Luckily, the Steelers played on Thursday, so I didn't have to be glued to the TV today. Of course, I did watch a few other games...and even squeezed in some cardmaking.

If you've been following my blog, this color scheme and stamp set probably look familiar ;) I ran across another design similar to the one I posted a couple weeks ago and just had to do another. I stumbled upon this gem on Splitcoaststampers. It was designed by Beate Johns. I switched out the ribbon and added some Stickles, but pretty much kept it the same.

Hope you enjoy. TFL!

Stamps: Friends 24-7, Oval All
Paper: Kraft, Chocolate Chip and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Bella Bleu DSP
Ink: Bordering Blue Classic Stamp Pad & Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Accessories: Sponges, Half Back Pearls, Scalloped Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, Eyelet Border Punch, Distressing Tool, Paper Piercer and Mat, Cinnamon Stickles and Various Ribbon.

A Little Rose Saffron Love

Happy 3-Day Weekend Everyone! Whether you have plans to stay close to home or travel to see friends or family, hopefully you enjoy your time off!

I had a workshop on Thursday night and this was the last card we made. I bought the Scallop Square Punch some time ago and was excited to finally use it. I paired it with a Retired Stamp Set called A Little Love. The images are the perfect size for this punch and are just adorable. But, if you don't have this set, and are looking for an alternative, there's a set in the catalog on Page 44 called Holiday Blitz that would be perfect---and it covers almost every holiday.

Both sets have small images that are harder to work with on cards. The punch allows you to make the image a little larger, therefore creating a better balance.

I love this color combo and the simple layout! TFL.

Stamps: A Little Love (Retired-Alternative: Holiday Blitz) and All Holidays
Paper: Chocolate Chip, So Saffron, Rose Red and Whisper White Cardstock; So Saffron DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Pad and Stampin' Write Marker
Accessories: Paper Piercer, Mat Pack, Scallop Square Punch, Rose Red Ribbon, Chocolate Chip Brad, Scallop Edge Punch and a 1/16" Circle Punch.

Crushed Razzleberry Lemonade

I have been wanting to use the new Razzleberry Lemonade DSP since I got it in July, but it never really fit into any of my workshops. With Fall coming, I'm trying to gravitate toward more fall colors and I think it has finally found a place.

The Razzleberry Lemonade papers have beautiful floral designs in the new In Colors: Melon Mambo, Rich Razzleberry and Crushed Curry. They all work so well together and can be coordinated in so many different ways.

I matched the Crushed Curry and Rich Razzleberry and what a wonderful combination they make. SU! finally decided to release Markers in the In Colors, which is perfect for coloring images to match the cardstock. I used the Rich Razzleberry marker for coloring the flowers and then drizzled Crystal Effects over the blooms. Once dried, this gives them a glossy look.

I hope you like it....TFL (Thanks for Looking)

Stamps: Friends 24-7, All Holidays
Paper: Crushed Curry, Rich Razzleberry & Very Vanilla Cardstock, Razzleberry Lemonade DSP
Ink: Rich Razzleberry & Basic Black Classic Stampin' Pads
Accessories: Modern Label Punch, Eyelet Border Punch, Movers & Shapers Die, Rich Razzleberry Polka Dot Ribbon, Rich Razzleberry, Certainly Celery and Old Olive Stampin Write Markers, Crystal Effects and Vintage Pewter Brads.

Pink Friend Medallion

Happy Saturday...and boy am I glad it's the weekend! Earlier this week, I attempted the sketch challenge over at Mojo, but didn't get very far (my creative juices were not flowing ;) So, I figured I needed to focus on cards for my workshop next week. This will be one of the cards we're making.

I stumbled upon this design over at http://flutterbyatomicbutterfly.blogspot.com/. If that sounds familiar, it probably is, as I've mentioned her blog before. Love her!

I kept the card basically the same. I created my own designer paper for the base of the card with my Pretty in Pink Pad and a stamp from the Retired SU! Carte Postale Stamp Set. The flower I used is from Daisy Doodles that I've had laying around forever, just waiting for the perfect card to come along...and this was it! For all you girly girls out there, this has plenty of bling, just for you! Hope you like it.

Stamp Sets: Friends 24-7, Friendly Words Jumbo Wheel, Carte Postale (Retired)
Paper: Basic Black, Whisper White and Pretty in Pink Cardstock
Ink: Pretty in Pink and Basic Black Classic Stamp Pads
Accessories: Mat Pack & Paper Piercer, Jumbo Wheel, Clear Rhinestone Brads, Daisy Doodles Candy Pink Flowers (Michael's), Clear Rhinestones, Black Brads, 1 1/4" & 1 3/8" Circle Punches, SU! Ribbon Originals - Flirty (Retired) and Pop Dots

Mojo Monday Challenge - Vintage Baby Girl

Hello Everyone,

I hope you all have had a great weekend! Mine was good, but has gone by too fast. I had a sponging class on Saturday and everyone's cards turned out so cute. I love to see how everyone takes the designs and tweaks them to their own individual styles.

Since I've found a new love of vintage cards, I sat down to play today...just for fun! One of the blogs I follow is MojoMonday. Every Monday they post a sketch and invite everyone to share their design. Well, this past week they turned 100 and posted a sketch every day for the week. I chose to do Sketch Challenge Day #6. Here is the blog if you'd like to check it out: http://mojomonday.blogspot.com/.

Since I had the sketch to work with, it made getting started a little easier. I had some Basic Grey paper that I thought would be perfect for this card...and I was right. I decided on two different designs in the LilyKate paper pack. I had planned on making a card for a friend, but with all this pink, I couldn't pass up making a Baby Girl card. Now I just need to have someone have a Baby Girl! Maybe we'll have one at Navarrete ;) For my first vintage card, I'm very happy with how it turned out. I will probably add some Stickles to the edge card base and the Accordian Flower, but I didn't have the right color. I'll just have to add another pink to my collection ;) Hope you enjoy the card...and have a great Monday!

Stamps: Short & Sweet, Cause for Celebration (Retired Hostess Set)
Paper: Very Vanilla & Blush Blossom Cardstock, Basic Grey LilyKate Pack
Ink: Ranger Tea Dye Distress Ink
Accessories: Sponges, Distressing Tool, Eyelet Border Punch, Very Vanilla 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Button Latte Designer Buttons, Large/Small Glue Dots, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack.

Vintage Friends

Happy Friday Everyone! I, for one, am glad the week is over. My focus is now on my Sponge Class for Saturday.

This is the second card we'll be making tomorrow. Unfortunately, I can't take credit for designing this one. I did a CASE (Copy And Share Everything) of Kelly Lunceford over at Flutter by Atomicbutterfly. You must go check out her blog at http://flutterbyatomicbutterfly.blogspot.com/.
Until stumbling upon some of her cards at Splitcoast, Vintage Styles were never my thing. She truly has inspired me to switch it up a little bit and accessorize, even overaccessorize!

This card has been sponged with Ranger's Distress Ink to give it an aged/vintage look. It goes just perfectly with the Friends 24-7 stamp set. You apply the ink with a sponge and....Voila! Your card looks like it came from your Grandma's shoe box. Like me, maybe this card will inspire you to try a new look for your cards. Have a great weekend!

Stamps: Friends 24-7, Friendly Words Wheel

Paper: Very Vanilla Cardstock & Bella Bleu DSP

Ink: Ranger 'Vintage Photo' Distress Ink

Accessories: Sponges, Distressing Tool, Half Back Pearls (SU! Pretties Kit or Martha Stewart), Eyelet Border Punch, Linen Thread, Close to Cocoa Stampin' Write Marker, Cinnamon Stickles, Jumbo Wheel, SU! Button Latte Pack, SU! Ribbon Originals (I used Valet Ribbon that is retired, but a good alternative is the Masterpiece Ribbon Originals Pack.)

Spongeworthy?

I don't know, you tell me ;) I'm a huge Seinfeld fan....still, and I couldn't resist a nod to Elaine on this one.

Some of you may say that this card is not my normal style, and you'd be right. I don't sponge a lot on my cards because I like a clean and simple look, but since I'm having a sponging class on Saturday, I figured I'd better get to sponging.

I actually love how this card turned out. I sponged Rose Red, one of my absolute favorite colors, onto Whisper White cardstock and then stamped off the Damask Stamp before stamping on the paper. Looks just like Designer Paper, huh? Hope you like it!

Stamps: Friends 24-7

Paper: Certainly Celery, Chocolate Chip, Rose Red and Whisper White Cardstock

Ink: Rose Red & Chocolate Chip Classic Pads

Accessories: Rose Red, Regal Rose, Certainly Celery and Old Olive Stampin' Markers, Sponges, Scallop Circle Punch, 1 3/8" Punch, Ticket Corner Punch, Rose Red 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Basic Grey Ribbon, Rhinestones, Pop Dots

First Official Post

Hello Everyone,

This is my first official post to my new blog! It is a work in progress, so thanks for being one of the first to view it.

This 'Aloha' card was made at my last workshop and it is perfect to kickoff my new blog!

Stamps: Fifth Avenue Floral (SU!) & Aloha Stamp (Michael's)
Paper: Cameo Coral, Summer Sun & Whisper White Cardstock; Pink Flamingo DSP
Ink: Basic Black Classic Stampin’ Pad
Accessories: Mat Pack & Paper Piercer, 2" & 1/16" Circle Punches, Tempting Turquoise Brads, Tempting Turquoise 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Icicle Stickles, Cameo Coral & Tempting Turquoise SU! Markers