You're in My Thoughts, You're in My Heart

What an adventure trying to get this picture. Winter just makes it difficult to get good sunlight, but add in cloud cover and it's next to impossible. I took about 25 pics today in two different locations to get this one shot. A sneak peek into the secret life of Bloggers ;)

This card covers two challenges: Mojo Monday 171 and the Friday Mashup #25 Sweet on Hearts.
The Mojo Challenge was perfect for this card because I just got this DSP from the 'Man in Brown' and it let me play with a few different papers in the pack. This sentiment and the hearts for the Mashup Challenge were the perfect finish.

If you don't have this paper yet, it's a must have. Not sure why I waited so long to get it ;)

Stamps: I {Heart} Hearts & Word Play
Paper: Cherry Cobbler, Basic Black and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Love Letter DSP
Ink: Jet Black Stazon & Tea Dye Distress Ink
Accessories: Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Black Satin Ribbon and Linen Thread

TSSC154: Love, Circa 2007

I took a walk back in time on this card. Do you still have some of this DSP in your stash? It's called Enchante and is one of the first paper packs I ever bought from SU! I also have the Carte Postale set that coordinates with it...but, I didn't break it out for this card ;)

This sketch comes to us from Mary Jo over at Techno Stamper. My inspiration was drawn
from some heart tags I had seen last year. Unfortunately, I saved the picture, but no link. Not sure how that happened, as I ALWAYS save a link to refer back to. Anyways...they had punched a heart, added some pretty patterned paper behind it and blinged it up. I loved the look and wanted to recreate it.

I used some new goodies on this card: Rik Rak and some new Buttons. I have always wanted some Rik Rak and finally got some in a few colors. That super cute Perfect Plum button (my favorite part) comes from the Subtles Designer Buttons. Lots of great colors to choose from with these and you get a ton. A great deal!

Take a walk down memory lane and pull out a stamp set or paper that you haven't used in a while. It reminds me not to hoard...as you never really use anything up completely.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Tiny Tags
Paper: Perfect Plum, Old Olive and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Enchente DSP (Retired)
Ink: Perfect Plum Classic Pad; Old Paper & Peeled Paint Distress Inks
Accessories: Full Heart XL Punch, Small Heart Punch, Hole Punch, Subtles Designer Buttons, Vanilla Rik Rak, Old Olive Satin Ribbon, Linen Thread, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack and Sponges

SSD #57 Lucky You

What do you do when the Mojo is flowing and you run out of adhesive??? Well, that was me last night. I called in the heavy duty back-up...Sticky Strip. Not as convenient, but it does the trick!


My card today is based on this Sketch Challenge over at Skipping Stones Design. When I saw the design, I immediately thought of these Flowers from Seeing Ink Spots. Thanks so much for being my Muse today ;)

The crowns are the star of this show. They were the perfect size to be my focal image. I couldn't find a sentiment to fit on the curly label punch, but I used something even better...the Top Note Die. The sentiment is from the Afterthoughts Hostess Set and fits just perfectly in the die.

Has someone inspired you? Be sure to let them know...thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Artistic Etchings & Afterthoughts (Hostess)
Paper: Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla & Basic Black Cardstock; Newsprint DSP
Ink: Stazon Jet Black
Accessories: Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Top Note Die, 1 1/4" & 1 3/8" Circle Punches, Sponge and Black Brads

CCCB#37: Congratulations

The City Crafter Challenge Blog had an easy one this week: Stamp it Out! You can check it out here. No digital images allowed, just stamps. Easy for me since I've never tried a digital image.

My card is for my brother Brian and his new fiance Malia. We thought him a confirmed bachelor, so we were very happy to hear the good news. Malia is wonderful and we are overjoyed that she will be joining our family.

My inspiration for this card is the fabulous Jamie Pierson. I've been wanting to CASE this card of hers and this was the perfect opportunity. I switched up the colors and layout a bit, but kept the Presto Patterns DSP. This paper is so fun to play with. You can make it any color you'd like with some sponges or a brayer. I played around a bit and decided on Crumb Cake and Soft Suede. Love them together!

To finish off the card, I spritzed the sentiment and the medallion with Vanilla Shimmer Smooch. It added the perfect finishing touch.

This is in the mail this afternoon...hope they like it! Thanks for stopping by.

Stamps: Well Scripted (Retired) & Artistic Etchings
Paper: Very Vanilla & Soft Suede Cardstock; Presto Patterns DSP
Ink: Crumb Cake & Soft Suede Classic Pads
Accessories: Brayer, Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz, Very Vanilla Satin Ribbon, Linen Thread, Clear Button, 2" Circle Punch and some Pop Dots/Dimensionals

Sew Cute!

This card started out as (1) a New Year's Card, (2) a way to use up some scraps and (3) a simple layout. I guess 1 out of 3 ain't bad ;)

I was inspired by this card at Jessica Witty's Witticisms Blog. She called hers a 10MSPC (10 Minute Scrap Pile Card.) I love it...however, none of my cards EVER turn out that way.

I have tons of little scraps from my Sweet Pea DSP pack that I love and just can't part with. This was the perfect way to put them to use. Initially, it was designed like her card, but for me, it just wasn't workin'. So, I flipped it on a vertical card and Bingo, there it was.

I couldn't find a stamp image that I liked so I pulled out these Stitching Templates I got earlier this month. You pierce your paper using the template and then sew away. I got some pretty fancy get-ups for the thread, but really, all it is is embroidery thread. Simply adorable! I want to make a boy card as well, but I have to wait on some boyishly blue buttons.

On a side note, I didn't have a border punch in this style, so I punched out circles and adhered them to the back of the base. Works perfectly ;)

Hope you like it & thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: None
Paper: Crumb Cake & Blushing Bride Cardstock; Sweet Pea DSP (Retired)
Ink: None
Accessories: Stitch Template, Needle, Floss, 3/4" Circle Punch, Button and Sheer Brown Ribbon

A Very Merry Banner

Happy Holidays Everyone! Regardless of how you spend this time of year, I hope that you are enjoying it with family. My Aunt and Uncle are coming in from Pittsburgh tonight, so we are looking forward to spending some time with them.

My post today is a Banner that I made for a girlfriend. She had bought these (2) huge paper packs and we were supposed to get together to make a banner for each of us: a Christmas one for her and a winter one for me. Well, the weeks flew by and we still hadn't gotten together. Sound familiar to anyone???

Over the past week or two, I had been doing a bit here and there with it. First, I had cut out the banner pieces. Next, I worked on her accordian flowers (the most time intensive part.) Yesterday, I was in my craft room cleaning up, not wanting to start anything new, and decided to bite the bullet and just put it together for her.

I love how it turned out. The colors are by no means traditional, but once they were distressed, they took on a very vintage look. My inspiration for this banner is the Fabulous Kelly Lunceford. Her banners are like no other and she has wonderful instructions that make it sooo easy to do. You can find her posts here.

If you so happen to be inspired to make a banner, I would love to see it. Be sure to leave me a link. Thanks for stopping by!

FTL 120: Wish Big

I whipped this birthday card together for my nephew. I went through my papers and found this sheet from the Travel Journal DSP. Before I trimmed it down, it looked very surfer-ish, but now that I'm looking at it, I hope it's not too flourish-y for a masculine card.

I went in search of a sketch and found this one at Clean and Simple Stamping. I must say, I enjoyed making this card. It seems that all of the holiday cards I've been making have been so complex. It was nice to get back to the basics of color and paper: two of the things that drew me to paper crafting.

I did have a sad moment on this card...this was the last of my Kraft Taffeta Ribbon. Why oh why did SU! not read my memo to keep it...hee hee ;)

This heads out in the mail this week. Hope he likes it!

Stamps: Word Play
Paper: Night of Navy, Bashful Blue, Crumb Cake and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Travel Journal DSP (Retired)
Ink: Night of Navy Classic Ink
Accessories: Circle Nestabilities, Swiss Dots Embossing Folder, Kraft Taffeta Ribbon and Pop Dots

Altered Comp Book - Shabby Chic

Oh, I had a lot of fun making this comp book! So many different pieces and they all came together perfectly.

This design was inspired by a mini album made by Rose Blackburn that I saw in our October Stampin Success Demo magazine. She had layered multiple border punches and I loved the look it gave.

I used three border punches on my book: Eyelet Border Punch, Scallop Trim Border Punch and the Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch. They layered just perfectly. I put them all together and then adhered to the Newsprint DSP.

Those fancy flowers in the corner are made with the Scallop Circle Punch. I punched 9 for each flower. Once they're punched, you stack them up and attach them with a brad. They'll be flat, so you start on the top layer and crinkle it up. You continue with that till all the layers are a bit crinkled. It's perfect for a shabby/vintage look.

Before I put everything together, all the edges were distressed with some Vintage Photo Ink. I love how it turned out...and it's probably my favorite of the three. Which one is yours? Leave me a comment...I'd love to know. Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: None
Paper: Cherry Cobbler, Basic Black and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Newsprint DSP
Ink: Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Accessories: Composition Book, Eyelet Border Punch, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, 1/16" Circle Punch, Sending Love Epoxy Brad (Retired), Black Satin Ribbon, Linen Thread, Button Latte (Retired) and Sponges

Altered Comp Book - Just Classy

This composition book took on a more classy look. I love Black & White...I'm sure I've told you that before ;) This is the Night & Day DSP. It's retired from quite a few mini's ago and I will be very sad when my stash is depleted.

The big swirl in the bottom corner was perfect on it's own, but I couldn't leave it that way. I punched out scalloped circles from another print in the pack and then cut in to the center on each of the scallops. I then added a clear Rhinestone brad. You can't see it here, but this gives them a nice 3-Dimensional look.

Learning experience, these guys need to be adhered with something stronger that glue dots. I am going back to hot glue them on. We'll see how that goes ;)

These books would make great gifts for the holidays. They are inexpensive and pretty easy to make. If you design one, be sure to leave me a link. I'd love to see it!

TFL!

Stamps: Word Play
Paper: Night & Day DSP (Retired)
Ink: Basic Black Classic Ink
Accessories: Composition Book, Scallop Circle Punch, 1/16" Circle Punch, Clear Rhinestones, Black Satin Ribbon and Sticky Strip

Altered Comp Book - Just Sweet

I got together with a girlfriend a few months ago and we made an Altered Composition Book. I got a little over eager and bought about 30 of these comp books. Will I ever make 30??? It may take 30 years, but either way, they were $.20 each and I couldn't resist.

I can't remember if I shared my first book with you guys, but this one is much improved. I added quite a few more embellies. This paper is from my Pre-SU days and was just sitting in my quite large patterned paper stash gathering dust. It's beautiful and just so girly.

The butterflies seemed like a natural addition. The large butterfly for the focal point is the Beautiful Butterflies Die. I cut 3 different sizes and layered them. The little tiny butterflies are from the Beautiful Wings Embosslits. Both are available through Stampin Up.

For the front and back cover, I just traced an outline of the comp book and cut them out. The binding is cut about 4 inches and added over the other papers. I also cover the inside front cover. You will definitely want to use a heavy adhesive for this. I used Sticky Strip, but a large adhesive gun would make this job a lot easier...and quicker.

These take some time to make, but are so worth it. They could be a fabulous inexpensive holiday gift. If you try one, be sure to leave me a link....I'd love to see your design.

TFL!

Stamp: Word Play
Paper: Whisper White Cardstock; Basic Gray LilyKate DSP
Ink: Lavendar Lace Classic Ink (Retired)
Accessories: Composition Book, Beautiful Butterflies Die, Beautiful Wings Embosslits, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Old Olive Satin Ribbon, Lavender Buttons, Linen Thread, Mini Glue Dots and Sticky Strip

Got Merry?

Isn't he just the cutest little Gingerbread Cookie? This is another Milk Carton set I made for the holidays. Not sure where he'll end up, but I'm sure it will be one of my fellow teachers. Some M&M's and Reese's will be a perfect treat to get through this week before break.

For the Milk Carton Carrier, I used this tutorial put together by Kim Score. The milk jugs were put together using the Mini Milk Carton Die (#117310) sold by Stampin' Up. It works with the Big Shot and Cuttlebug. It cuts and scores your paper, then all you have to do is put it together and finish it off with the Got Treats Stamp Set. Soooo cute!

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Got Treats
Paper: Garden Green, Cherry Cobbler, Chocolate Chip & Very Vanilla Cardstock; Merry Moments DSP (Retired)
Ink: Chocolate Chip & Basic Black Classic Ink
Accessories: Mini Milk Carton Die, Circle & Scallop Circle Nestabilities, 1 1/4" Circle Punch, 1/16" Circle Punch, Red & Green Brads and Sticky Strip

A Snowflake Resist

I saw this Beautiful card by Lesley at Always Playing with Paper and just had to recreate it.

It uses an Emboss Resist Technique. Sound hard? It truly isn't. It's just a few short steps. First, you stamp and heat emboss your snowflakes. I used Versamark & White Embossing Powder. Secondly, you stamp over your embossed snowflakes. I used the large French Script stamp. Thirdly, once that dries, you sponge around the snowflakes. This gives the card such great dimension.

If you've never tried an Emboss Resist, live on the edge and give it a try...you won't regret it!

Thanks for stopping by.

Stamps: Serene Snowflakes, Tiny Tags and French Script
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Crumb Cake and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Chocolate Chip and Crumb Cake Classic Pads; Versamark Pad
Accessories: Heating Tool, White Embossing Powder, Snowflake Punch, 1/16" Circle Punch, Jewelry Tag Med Punch, Scalloped Edge Punch, Sponges, Tan Brad and Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon

Candy Cane Wishes

This Santa with his Bag Full of Gifts and the Wishing You a Merry Christmas Sentiment are the last images in the Jolly Old Saint Nick Set that I've been using. I kept him simple because I couldn't figure out how to bling him up. At my workshop, some of the girls added some glitter, so I may do the same. We'll see.

Really, the star of this card is the paper. I love the Candy Canes and Stripes together and, of course, all of those wonderful layers! Unfortunately, this paper is sold out, but you could create this look with any of our other DSP packs.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Jolly Old Saint Nick
Paper: Cherry Cobbler, Blushing Bride & Whisper White Cardstock; Candy Cane DSP
Ink: Basic Black Classic Ink
Accessories: Scallop Circle & Circle Nestabilities, Mat Pack & Paper Piercer and White Satin Ribbon

Candy Cane Tags

Here are two simple gift tags that I put together with the Candy Cane DSP. This DSP was so popular at SU! that it's sold out and they, unfortunately, will not be reordering. So, if you have it, count yourself lucky ;)

My first tag is cut as a rectangle and then trimmed with a corner rounder on the top edges. The second tag is cut with a Scalloped Circle Die Cut. I don't have a tag
die cut, so these are quite simply the easiest way to create them.

If you happen to create your own gift tags this season, be sure to leave me a link. I would love to see what you come up with.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Bright Christmas & Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: Baja Breeze, Cherry Cobbler and Blushing Bride Cardstock; Candy Cane DSP
Ink: Cherry Cobbler Classic Pad
Accessories: Round Tab Punch, Scallop Trim Border Punch, 1/16" Circle Punch, Scallop Circle Nestabilities, Clear Rhinestone Brad, Blue Brad, Silver Cording, Red and White Ribbons

A Sweet Thank You

One of my girlfriends was hosting her first Thanksgiving Dinner this year. I know how that goes...you're nervous, excited and frantic all at the same time. I've hosted plenty of my own dinners and I feel this way every time.

Imagine how surprised I was, when I answered the phone on Saturday to my friend's husband. Unlike my husband, he is not accustomed to making his own cards, so he wanted me to make one for her.

I just happened to be perusing the new mini (which we demos get an early peek at) and saw this card. I love Black & White. I've done it quite a few times here on my blog. It's classic, it's elegant...it's perfect. I sure hope she liked it ;)

Stamps: Pedaling Past
Paper: Basic Black & Whisper White Cardstock; Night & Day DSP (Retired)
Ink: Basic Black Classic Pad
Accessories: Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Lots of Tags Die, Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die, Black Satin Ribbon, Rhinestones and Sponges

A Real Baja Christmas

Here's another card featuring the Baja Breeze/Real Red color combo. The star of this card is the fun polka dot paper from the Candy Cane Christmas DSP. You can't see it in this photo, but the polka dots are shimmering with glitter.

As if a little glitter wasn't enough, I added some Rhinestones, some Satin Ribbon and just a little paper piercing. It all just works perfectly!

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Delightful Decorations & All Holidays
Paper: Baja Breeze, Real Red & Whisper White Cardstock; Candy Cane Christmas DSP
Ink: Real Red Classic Pad
Accessories: Ornament Punch, Real Red Satin Ribbon, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Circle & Scallop Circle Nesties, Rhinestones and Pop Dots/Dimensionals

Winter Wonderland

These are not your traditional Holiday colors, but with the new Candy Cane Christmas DSP, it works. I love the Baja Breeze and Real Red together...I would have never paired these up on my own!

Believe it or not, these images come from the same two stamp sets I used on my last card: Jolly Old Saint Nick and Bright Christmas. Talk about getting two sets that perfectly coordinate and are so versatile.

I'm not sure if you can tell in the photo or not, but this card has a lot of Dazzling Diamonds glitter to create a true Winter Wonderland. I used two-way glue to dot each snowflake and to edge the banner, then I let the glitter flow. We were laughing at my last workshop about how long your glitter lasts. You think you're using a lot, but in reality, this glitter will last a lifetime. It adds the perfect finishing touch. Hope you like it!

Stamps: Jolly Old Saint Nick & Bright Christmas
Paper: Real Red, Baja Breeze and Whisper White Cardstock; Candy Cane Christmas DSP
Ink: Basic Gray and Basic Black Classic Pads, Black Stazon
Accessories: Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Scalloped Edge Punch, Two-Way Glue Pen, Baja Breeze Satin Ribbon (Retired), Blender Pen, Real Red Stampin Marker and Pop Dots/Dimensionals

Holly Jolly Saint Nick

I have to be honest...I had not even noticed these two stamps sets in the Holiday Mini any of the times that I perused it (which was quite a few ;) I just started seeing cards pop up online with this cute little fella.

I was inspired to buy these two sets by Rose's card here. These two stamps were made for each other. Add some of the New Tinsel Trim and you have the perfect throw-back Christmas card.

Here's a big *Wink* to you for stopping by!

Stamps: Jolly Old Saint Nick & Bright Christmas
Paper: Very Vanilla & Real Red Cardstock; Merry Moments DSP (Retired)
Ink: Real Red Classic Pad & Black Stazon
Accessories: Silver Tinsel Trim, Top Note Die, Scalloped Circle & Circle Nestabilities, Swiss Dots Embossing Folder and Pop Dots/Dimensionals

Very Merry Snowflakes

This card is a CASE of Jenn Sannes' card seen here. Her gorgeous card is a much simpler version in blues. I've been playing with a lot of non-traditional holiday colors, so I wanted something a bit more traditional with this one: Cherry Cobbler & Old Olive.

This whimsical little snowflake is one of the stamps in the Serene Snowflake set. I blinged up the centers with Rhinestones to finish them off.

This card could very easily become a one layer card that could be duplicated to make quite a few Holiday Cards quickly. Hope you like it!

Stamps: Serene Snowflakes and Short & Sweet
Paper: Cherry Cobbler & Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Cherry Cobbler & Old Olive Classic Pads
Accessories: Old Olive Satin Ribbon, Rhinestones, Mat Pack & Paper Piercer & Pop Dots/Dimensionals

Give Thanks

Can you believe that Thanksgiving is right around the corner? I'm trying to get a few more Fall cards posted before I move on to Christmas, but I'm not sure that will happen. So, you may see a mixture of the two in the coming weeks.

This card mixes the Falling Leaves & Holiday Best stamp sets. The Holiday Best stamp set was a Hostess set in last year's catalog. If you have it, pull it out. I love this Give Thanks stamp and it works perfectly with the leaves.

The DSP on this card is Autumn Spice. I paired it up with Early Espresso and sponged the edges to soften it a little bit. The tag is from the Lots of Tags Die Cut. This one is my favorite design in the set. I added some Old Olive Satin Ribbon to give it a pop of color. I think I got the job done ;)

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Falling Leaves & Holiday Best (Retired)
Paper: Early Espresso & So Saffron Cardstock; Autumn Spice DSP
Ink: Early Espresso Classic Pad
Accessories: Lots of Tags Die, Old Olive Satin Ribbon, Scallop Edge Punch, 1 1/4" & 1 3/8" Circle Punches, Brown Brads and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

Got Treats?

Happy Halloween Everyone! This is my one and only Halloween post for this year. I wouldn't even have had this one, if it weren't for my mom. How is that you may ask? Well, she came over for my workshop last month and was browsing the catalog, when she pointed out these cute little Milk Cartons. Sure, I had seen them before, but didn't really give them much thought.

Well, we went in together to get them and I'm sure glad I did. They are just too cute! The Milk Carton die cut runs through the Cuttlebug or the Big Shot. It not only cuts it out, but it scores the fold lines as well. There are plenty of videos on YouTube on how to put them together. They're really very easy.

Of course, Milk Cartons aren't Milk Cartons without a cute little holder. I found this tutorial at Kim Score's Blog. It lists all the dimensions and directions for creating them. Then, all that's left is decorating. I purchased the Got Treats? stamp set to go with this. It has Got Treats? stamps for: Halloween, Christmas, St Patty's Day, Valentine's Day and Birthdays. Just adorable! I can guarantee you'll see one of these for each upcoming holiday. What a great gift idea...just fill the cartons with some sweet treats. Can't wait to gift one ;)

Hope you all have a fun & safe Halloween!

Stamps: Got Treats?
Paper: Pumpkin Pie & Basic Black Cardstock; Cast-A-Spell DSP (Retired)
Ink: Basic Black Classic Pad
Accessories: Mini Milk Carton Bigz Die, Bone Folder, Sticky Strip, Scallop Circle Punch, 1/16" Circle Punch and Black Brads

Fabulous Foliage

I saw this beautiful card by Dawn Olchefske and had to recreate it. I love the colors and the design...not to mention, it's using my new favorite stamp set, French Foliage.

What caught my eye was the square shadow that's part of the focal image. You use SU's Clear Blocks to create this effect. I used size 'D' here.

To create this look:
1. Ink up the block on your stamp pad and stamp off two times.
2. Stamp it on your cardstock. I used Crumb Cake for this step.
3. Run the edge of the block around a darker color and stamp over the original image. I used Early Espresso for this step.

I would have loved to have added some Early Espresso ribbon to this, but I didn't have any. So, I improvised with one of my must have items - Linen Thread. I tied it threw a button and ended up with a piece of art. I Love it!

Thanks for stopping by.

Stamps: French Foliage & Falling Leaves
Paper: Early Espresso, Crumb Cake & Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink: Cajun Craze, Early Espresso & Crumb Cake Classic Ink
Accessories: Clear Block D, Linen Thread and a Very Vanilla Button

French Foliage

When I say that this stamp set is a must-have, it truly is. Not only can you use it for Fall, but, it has a cute little circular Paris stamp and a French Script stamp. Both of these can be used with other themed stamp sets (think Artistic Etchings ;) In two words...It's Versatile.

This card is straight out of the Holiday Mini. I used the same design, but switched it up a little. I added ribbon and stamped the 'Grateful' sentiment directly on the mat. I just couldn't make the tag on the original card work for me.

I must disclose that the Grateful sentiment is from another stamp set - Falling Leaves. I bought it for the sentiment and for the cute leaves and acorn it has. The Grateful works well with this card, but you could use any other sentiment that you have.

I will be making more designs with this set, so you'll be getting lots of ideas for it. Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: French Foliage & Falling Leaves
Paper: Early Espresso, Cajun Craze, More Mustard and Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink: Early Espresso, Cajun Craze, More Mustard & Crumb Cake Classic Pads
Accessories: 1/4" Chocolate Chip Grosgrain Ribbon & Pop Dots/Dimensionals

Paper Strip Pumpkins

I'm a sucker for pumpkins...any kind! So when I saw these in our Stampin' Success Demo Magazine, I had to make them. They were a definite hit at my last workshop.

For the paper, I used the new Autumn Spice DSP. It's a heavier weight paper which I think you'll need for these. Cardstock would work as well. Here are the instructions:

1. Cut (9) 3/4" x 6" strips of paper.
2. Stack them print side up and punch two holes
in each end. You will need a Crop-A-Dile
type tool to get through the layers.
3. Adhere a 5/8" Jumbo Brad to one end - this will be the bottom. Fan out all the strips in an even circle.
4. Pull the strips up alternating opposite sides and adhere at the top with a 5/16" Brad. This will be the top.
5. Now embellish your pumpkin as you like. I used a Leaf Die, a Button and a Curly Cue made by wrapping a thin strip of cardstock around a pencil.

They're too cute! You could make a couple different designs and put them in a cute little tin or basket. Instant Fall Decor. Would love to see yours if you make some, so be sure to leave me a link. Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: None
Paper: Old Olive Cardstock; Autumn Spice DSP
Ink: None
Accessories: 5/8" & 5/16" Brads, Crop-A-Dile, Leaf Die, Green Buttons, Linen Thread and Pop Dots/Glue Dots

Autumn Spice

Autumn Spice...doesn't it just conjour thoughts of Fall? Well, that's the DSP that I used on this card. The Fall patterns are colored in Cajun Craze, Old Olive, More Mustard and Early Espresso. It's perfect for all those Thanksgiving cards you'll be making next month. There's not a bad print in the pack.

I still feel like this card is missing something, but I've exhausted all the possibilities....so, it is what it is. Hope you like it...thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes & Falling Leaves (inside of card)
Paper: Cajun Craze, Old Olive & More Mustard Cardstock; Autumn Spice DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Pad
Accessories: 1/4" More Mustard Grosgrain Ribbon, Scallop Trim Border, Scallop Oval XL Punch, Modern Label Punch, Leaf Button, Linen Thread, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack

SSSC86 Bella Bleu Sympathy

I'm trying to branch out and make some cards other than Birthday or Thank You. For this one, I pulled out my Thoughts & Prayers stamp set. This set is great for Sympathy and Get Well cards.

Before I even started thinking about designing, I knew I wanted to use this DSP. Has your paper ever called out to you from the bottom of pile? Mine did ;) The print is from the retired Bella Bleu pack. It's so simple and understated which is perfect for a Sympathy card.

My design is based on Karen Giron's Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge 86 at The Sweetest Thing. Pop on over and see what everyone else has come up with.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Thoughts & Prayers
Paper: Early Espresso, Crumb Cake and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Bella Bleu DSP
Ink: Early Espresso Classic Ink
Accessories: Circle & Scallop Circle Nesties, Lots of Tags Die, a Clear Button & Linen Thread

The Ghostess with the Mostess

Our October host for Book Club always goes all out for Halloween. So, I decided to make her a little Thank You Card. I got the sketch from Card Pattern's Sketch #82 and the theme from Paper Pal Arts' 'Wickedly' fun challenge.

This paper is from a retired pack called Cast-A-Spell. If you have some, pull it out...it's that time of year! I added some Chunky Black Glitter, as I've been seeing it all over and wanted to play a little bit. I think I'll be finding glitter for quite some time in my workspace ;)

I don't have a lot of Halloween sets, but I feel this one is timeless. It's great for treat bags and toppers but also works great on cards. Hope you like it!

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Batty for You & All Holidays
Paper: Pumpkin Pie & Basic Black Cardstock; Cast-A-Spell DSP
Ink: Basic Black Classic Ink
Accessories: Chunky Black Glitter, Scallop Edge Punch, Circle & Scallop Circle Nesties, Scallop Circle Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, Black Satin Ribbon, Black Brads, Two Way Glue and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

Out on a Limb

How cute is this guy? This owl is one of our new punches in the catalog. This one punch, punches out all the pieces you need to put him together. Want to kick it up a notch...add some googly eyes. Too fun!

The paper I used is from the Nursery Suite DSP Pack. This paper is perfect for any baby cards you may need. But, as you can see, it's versatile for other type cards as well.

The hardest part about this card...not being able to tie a bow with my ribbon. I just couldn't make it work. I do, however, love the simplicity of a non bow and the addition of the Rhinestone Brad.

If you're lucky enough to have gotten the Picture This hostess set from Sale-A-Bration, it has an owl stamp that says, "Thanks for Owl you do". It has a picture of an Owl for the word and perfectly matches with this punch. I used it for the inside of the card. Quite a great ensemble!

If you have this punch, I would LOVE to see how you've used it. Please share a link in the comments ;)

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Whimsical Words (Retired) & Picture This (Retired)
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Bashful Blue & Whisper White Cardstock: Nursery Suite DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
Accessories: Two Step Owl XL Punch, Little Leaves Die, Bashful Blue Satin Ribbon, Clear Rhinestones, Scallop Border Punch, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Googly Eyes, Crystal Effects and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

In the Lap of Luxury

Lap of Luxury...doesn't it just sound impressive? Well, it truly is. That's the name of the DSP that I used on this card. It's full of pinks and purples...including the new Concord Crush.

I got the idea for this card right off the front of the catalog. The Top Note Die is perfect for mixing all the sheets of a DSP pack. Here I mixed them with some cardstock and the new Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch. How clever to add the punch in with the design.

Can't wait to play some more with this paper. TFL!

Stamps: Tiny Tags
Paper: Concord Crush, Pretty in Pink and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Lap of Luxury DSP
Ink: Concord Crush Classic Ink
Accessories: Top Note Die, Lots of Tags Die, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, Swiss Dots Embossing Folder and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

Pretty Pink Butterfly

OK, so this is the second post of my new Favorite, Must-Have item - the Beautiful Butterflies Die. Why do I love it so? Well, here goes.

1. The Butterflies are simply beautiful.
2. They allow you to throw together a card in the matter of minutes.
3. You can use any patterned paper that you want (maybe I should try something other than pink...hee hee!)
4. You can use them for any occasion.

Well, maybe not any occasion...your father, uncle, son or grandfather may not appreciate them, but everyone else will ;)

If you have a Big Shot or a Cuttlebug, you need to add this to your collection. I promise, you won't regret it!

Stamps: Short & Sweet
Paper: Melon Mambo, Pretty in Pink and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Shades of Spring DSP
Ink: Melon Mambo Classic Ink
Accessories: Beautiful Butterflies Die, Pretty in Pink Satin Ribbon, Paper Piercer and Mat Pack, Linen Thread, Pink Buttons and Mini Glue Dots.

New/Returning Demo Incentive

Is this Tote not Fabulous? The design is based on SU's Greenhouse Gala DSP. Sign up as a Demo (New or Returning) between Sept 1 - Oct 18 and it's yours Free (a $39.95 Value) with your Starter Kit.

The center is roomy enough to hold 12 x 12 Cardstock and a Paper Trimmer. The outside pockets will hold XL Punches and provide storage for other accessories. A back zipper will hold up to (7) Ink Pads.

Have you ever considered becoming an SU! Demo? I signed up 18 months ago and have never looked back. I had been buying supplies regularly and my collection was growing. I figured, why not at least support my own habit? Are you interested in using the 20% Discount and doing the same? If so, email me at julie.marshall@cox.net and we can chat.

I'd love to get a Team started!

New Holiday Mini

The SU! Holiday Mini is here and available from Sept 1 - Jan 3. It is full of Fabulous new products for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Fall/Winter and Christmas. SU! has introduced Fabrics, New Buttons, Glass Glitter and some great new Big Shot/Cuttlebug Dies and Embossing Folders. Click on the image above to check it out.

If you'd like to place an order, just email me at julie.marshall@cox.net. To place your order online through my Demonstrator Website, click on the link in the top right corner.

Thanks for stopping by!

Big Beautiful Butterflies

These butterflies were cut from the Beautiful Butterflies Die on page 206 of the catalog. I've wanted them For-Ever and finally bought them. It cuts the butterflies in 4 different sizes. This Butterfly combines the two larger sizes with the smaller size.

For a sense of scale, this card is a standard size card, turned on it's side. As you can see, the biggest butterfly takes up quite some space. It could easily work alone being your focal image. Just add some gorgeous paper and you're set.

I used the retired Shades of Spring DSP from the Occasions Catalog. Beautiful isn't it? It's tempting not to use it and save it...but, then no one gets to see it but me. Let's not be selfish ;)

We'll be doing another card design with this Die at my next workshop on Thursday. I'm sure it's gonna Wow the girls. If you'd like to order this die or any other supplies, just click on my Online Order button to the right. It's product code: 114507.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Short & Sweet
Paper: Melon Mambo, Pretty in Pink and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Shades of Spring DSP
Ink: Melon Mambo Classic Ink
Accessories: Beautiful Butterflies Die, Pink Button, Linen Thread, Paper Piercer and Mat Pack and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

Pretty Basic Elements

I saw this Fab-U-Lous card over at Renee's Stamping for Sanity Blog. I kept the basic card the same, just switched up the color combo.

The card base is beautiful Basic Grey and it's Clear Embossed with the swirls from the Elements of Style Set. The flowers are stamped in Black Staz-On and colored with Blender Pens in Pretty in Pink and Blushing Bride. Add in some Basic Grey Satin Ribbon and you have one stunning card!

I love how it turned out. Thank you Renee for the wonderful inspiration!

Stamps: Elements of Style & Vintage Labels
Paper: Basic Grey, Basic Black and Whisper White Cardstock; Welcome Neighbor DSP
Ink: Basic Grey and Blushing Bride Classic Pads, Black Staz-On & Versamark
Accesories: Embossing Buddy, Clear Embossing Powder, Basic Grey Satin Ribbon, Grey Brads, 1/16" Hole Punch, Small Glue Dots and Pretty in Pink, Certainly Celery & Old Olive Stampin' Markers

Presto Patterns Pizazz

I had a special request for my last workshop: use the Presto Patterns paper and the Smooch Spritz. I combined them both on this card to create the Rose Red Mat.

The cool thing about the Presto Patterns DSP is that it comes to you in white with 6 different designs. You add your own color, so you can make it any color you'd like. I experimented with adding color using the Aqua Painter and the Sponges, but I much prefer using a Brayer. It goes on much more evenly and the color is more uniform.

Once the ink dried, I sprayed it with the Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spray. You can't tell in the picture, but it gives the paper this perfect little shimmery look.

I got the color combo off of my old Color Coach: Rose Red, Barely Banana and Certainly Celery. Love how the Certainly Celery adds a little pop of color.

TFL!

Stamps: Artistic Etchings, Tiny Tags & Carte Postale (Retired)
Paper: Barely Banana and Whisper White Cardstock; Presto Patterns DSP
Ink: Rose Red & Basic Black Classic Pads
Accessories: Brayer, Mat Pack & Paper Piercer, Certainly Celery Satin Ribbon, Round Tab Punch, Rhinestone and Stickles

Early Espresso Parfait

Two posts in one day...that hasn't happened in quite some time! I've had a couple of cards made, but wasn't able to photograph them till today. There's not enough light when I get home from work...so, I have to wait for the weekend.

I saw this stunning card by Julie Lacey and had to do a CASE. My card is a much simpler version, but I wanted to focus on the colors: Early Espresso, Peach Parfait and Certainly Celery. Is is not a Fab color combo? And, what about the floral image? So simple, so pretty. I think I could CASE every one of her cards ;)

Hope you like it...TFL!

Stamps: Fifth Avenue Floral and Short & Sweet
Paper: Early Espresso, Peach Parfait and Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink: Early Espresso Classic Ink
Accessories: Certainly Celery Satin Ribbon, Circle Nesties and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

'My' New Digital Studio

Hello Everyone! It feels like it has been forever since I last posted. That's what the beginning of the school year for a new teacher will do....take up all your time ;) I did, however, take some time this morning to play with a new toy I got in the mail yesterday...My Digital Studio.

I debated on whether to get it...and even asked advice of others how much they used it. My first thought was to use it to design my Blog Page. My second thought was scrapbooking. I just took to reading digitally on my Nook, so why not try scrapbooking digitally. I love it!! I've had this software downloaded to my computer for about two hours and created this super cute page. How cool is that???

It's so easy to use and you get to choose from the same papers, stamps, punches and embellishments that we've grown to love in our craft room...it's just all virtual. The pictures I chose for this layout are from our Oregon Trip this summer. I plan to be pulling more pics and designing more pages, so tune in to check them out. Just wanted to give you guys a little peek ;)

MDS Stamps: Greatest Moments & Enjoy Every Moment
MDS Paper: Chocolate Chip Cardstock & Summer Home DSP
MDS Ink: Very Vanilla & Chocolate Chip
MDS Accessories: Scalloped Edge Punch

Little Things

I saw this card by Julie Lacey and had to CASE it. I loved the layered scallops and the Top Note. The colors are inspired by the new DSP: Elegant Soiree. I can't wait to get my hands on it.

Originally, I put the card together with the just the flower image and the message. But, when I went to photograph it, the top left corner looked completely empty. So, it was back to the drawing board. I went through all my brads and settled on this Dragonfly that I've had laying around forever. To give it a flying trail, I pulled out my Classy Brass Template and punched some holes.

I love how it turned out. Of course, I did use some of my beloved Baja Breeze Ribbon...but it was worth it!

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Happy Harmony (Retired) & Of the Earth (Retired Hostess)
Paper: Baja Breeze, Soft Suede,Very Vanilla and Crumb Cake Cardstock
Ink: Soft Suede Classic Pad
Accessories: Top Note Die, Scallop Edge Punch, Classy Brass Template, Rhinestones, Baja Breeze Satin Ribbon, Dragonfly Brad, Paper Piercer and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

Life is a Matter of Moments

Isn't that so true? Every time I see this stamp set, I think of my friend Stephanie. She has a version of this message in her home and on her blog. What a message to live by.

This is yet another CASE of a card by Tina Dyck. What can I say, she's awesome! I think I fell in love with this card because of the colors she chose. I am not naturally drawn to yellows, but I love them here!

I kept just about everything the same. One change I did make was to use the Swiss Dots Embossing Folder at the top as a mat. I 'attempted' to change out the card base color, but couldn't find anything I liked better than the Soft Suede. She has a great eye for color.

I've seen so many great ideas using this set, so I will be sharing many upcoming cards with it. TFL!

Stamps: Elements of Style
Paper: Soft Suede, Basic Black and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Daffodil Delight, More Mustard, Old Olive and Black StazOn
Accessories: Blender Pens, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Swiss Dots Embossing Folder and Black Brads

Black & White Bliss

I was reading through my blogs recently and stumbled upon this beautiful card by Tina at My Therapy, My Creations. It's classic Black & White Beauty!

I switched up a couple of things on my card: I added a Scallop Circle Mat, created my own DSP using the medallion stamp from Artistic Etchings and my 'For You' is from the Elements of Style set. I love how everything works together.

Most importantly, I finally got to use the New Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder. It's the bottom white mat and just exudes elegance. Love it!

Stamps: Because I Care, Elements of Style & Artistic Etchings
Paper: Basic Black and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Basic Black Classic Pad
Accessories: Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, 1" & 1 1/4" Circle Punches, Black Satin Ribbon, Scallop Circle & Circle Nesties & Dimensionals/Pop Dots

Coral Chip Circus

Sadly yes, Cameo Coral is a thing of our past, but plenty of us have a secret stash, so here is inspiration to pull some out and use it. I saw this card by Maile Belles and immediately thought of Circle Circus.

This is another great set that made it into the new catalog. I love the images and they can be used in so many ways. Behind my focal image, I used the border stamp from the Pedaling Past stamp set and stamped it directly on the Crumb Cake cardstock. How fun! I'm glad to see SU! is including them more in their sets.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Circle Circus, Pedaling Past and Short & Sweet
Paper: Crumb Cake, Cameo Coral and Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink: Cameo Coral & Chocolate Chip Classic Pad
Accessories: Chocolate Chip Grosgrain Ribbon, Coral Ribbon, Linen Thread, Buttons, Mini Glue Dots & Dimensionals/Pop Dots

Certainly Regal Rose Silhouettes

I went to a workshop about two years ago and we used this set, Pocket Silhouettes. I had wanted it forever and finally earned it during Sale-A-Bration in March. All this time later...I am finally inking it up and creating with it.

I CASED this card by Carly Robertson. I loved the colors and the rhinestones she used to enhance the images. So simply stated...and sooo pretty!

Stamping Up has finally broadened their horizons and are now carrying some bling. They have self-adhesive half-back Rhinestones and Pearls. They each come in three different sizes, so they are perfect for any image. Each pack also includes (3) strips of connected rhinestones or pearls that can be used for borders. If you like bling...these are for you!

Pocket Silhouettes has been around forever and I was glad to see it made it into the new catalog. It's a classic. Hope you like it! Thanks for stopping by.

Stamps: Pocket Silhouettes
Paper: Regal Rose, Certainly Celery, Rose Red, Barely Banana & Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Pad
Accessories: Scallop Trim Border Punch, Certainly Celery Satin Ribbon, Rhinestones & Dimensionals/Pop Dots

Bonjour Baja!

Welcome back Baja Breeze! As it was one of my favorite In Colors, I'm glad to see it's here to stay. My card today was inspired by a card Jo-Ann Pullen designed here. If you haven't been to her blog, you must hop on over. Her sense of style is amazing!

What drew me to this card was the Baja Breeze and Basic Black color combination. Add in some Very Vanilla and it is just classy! If you look closely, you can see I pulled out my Versamark pad for the design on the Baja mat. Any of the images in this set would be fun to play with and make your own background design. You'll have to give it a try.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Artistic Etchings & Because I Care
Paper: Baja Breeze and Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink: Baja Breeze & Basic Black Classic Pads; Versamark
Accessories: Modern Label Punch & Sheer Black Ribbon