Happy Holidays!

Hi All,

I hope you had a wonderful holiday!  My mom, aunt and uncle were in town, so we enjoyed quite a bit of family time.  I had hoped to get this post done prior to all of the holiday excitement, but it didn't happen.  So, let this be inspiration for your 2014 Holiday cards!

A few weeks ago I hosted my first Shoebox Swap.  Have you participated in one before?  They are so much fun!  Each person designs a card and brings all of the supplies for that card for everyone to make.  There were four of us and a couple of girls brought multiple projects...yes, I am lucky to know some over-achievers :)

This was my card for the swap.  I used one of my new favorite stamp sets: Snow Day.  It is available in the Holiday Mini and is a must have for your collection.  Snowmen are just adorable to begin with, but throw in a super cute chevron hat and you have a winner.  I saw cards popping up on Pinterest with this set and had to have it.  I combined these two fabulous cards to create mine: Snow Day Border Card by SereneStamper and Warm Wishes by Rubberfunatics.

This card uses a hand-drawn frame technique.  It looks so very "fancy", but is so very easy.  Tina Weller has a fabulous Youtube video to show you how it's done (just click on her link above).  All you need is a Black Marker and some Grid Paper.  This stamp set is perfect for this technique!

My friend Mary Beth designed two cards:

This card uses two pretty cool techniques.  The first is an emboss using only 3/4 of the embossing folder.  This leaves a flat space at the bottom to stamp your sentiment.  The second technique is one I've been wanting to try for quite some time now.  You punch out some squares from the patterned paper and then you use a corner round to punch opposite sides of the square.  I love the effect that it gives!

Mary Beth's second card uses another embossing folder.  It's hard to see in the pic, but it embosses a brick wall.  Very cool as you can use the embossed side or the debossed side.  You stamp the card first, then run it through the Big Shot to emboss.  It adds the perfect amount of texture.  And, I love it paired with the tree and Grunge Me.

The next card is from a new customer of mine Linda, who has been welcomed into our group.

Her design was based around this wreath stamp. It is a nice size stamp, so you really don't need a lot of embellishing.  We added some red rhinestones, a sentiment banner and finished it off with a bit of ribbon.  A simply elegant card.

The final card is from a fellow SU Demonstrator, Gina.  I also know her as she was a teacher I worked with at my son's Elementary school.  Her and I must have been on the same wavelength as she chose the same stamp set I did: Snow Day.  Great minds think alike!!!

Her snowman is just as cute!  I love that we could show two ways to use this set.  Mine uses more neutral colors and a Whisper White snowman and Gina's combines blues and reds with the new Smoky Slate ink.  One thing we both had in common, we used rhinestones with the snowflakes.  They're just cuter that way!

It's not too late to work on Holiday cards.  Create while you're still in the holiday cheer and you'll have a head start on next year.  I love the Snow Day set and feel it's timeless.  It's a must-have for your collection.

If I don't stop back in before next week, have a fun and safe New Year's and I'll see you in 2014!  Thanks for stopping by this year!

Julie's Card:
Stamp: Snow Day
Paper: Crumb Cake, Whisper White and Basic Black Cardstock
Ink: Whisper White Craft Pad; Basic Black, Smoky Slate, Cherry Cobbler and Chocolate Chip Classic Pads
Accessories: Basic Black Stampin' Write Marker, Grid Paper, Rhinestones

Mary Beth's 1st Card:
Stamp: More Merry Messages
Paper: Old Olive and Very Vanilla Cardstock; DSP
Ink: Cherry Cobbler Classic Pad
Accessories: Square Punch, Corner Rounder, Snowflake Embossing Folder, Red Brads and Pop Dots/Dimensionals

Mary Beth's 2nd Card:
Stamps: Grunge Me, Season of Joy
Paper: Whisper White and Cherry Cobbler Cardstock
Accessories: Brick Embossing Folder

Linda's Card:
Stamp: Wreath Stamp
Paper: Naturals and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Garden Green and Really Red Classic Pads
Accessories: Red Rhinestones and Sheer Red Ribbon

Gina's Card:
Stamp: Snow Day
Paper: Pool Party, Really Red and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Smoky Slate, Real Red, Pool Party, Chocolate Chip and Basic Black Classic Ink
Accessories: Rhinestones

Going Gingham

Hi All,

Happy Friday (almost)! To close out the week, I have another fall themed card for you.  It is a CASE of this gorgeous card by Jen over at Ladybug Designs. 

I loved all of the elements that she pulled together, especially the addition of the plaid.  What a great pop of color!  She used the Orchard Harvest DSP, but I had just gotten the Gingham wheel and used it to create mine.  It's in the 2013-2014 catalog and fits on the standard handle.

I don't have the stamp-a-majig that would probably make it easy to roll this wheel straight, so I was experiencing some technical difficulties.  In the end, I rolled the wheel on a strip of paper and actually trimmed it down.  That worked much better!

Jen had also used Core'dinations Cardstock and sanded it down. This paper sands down nicely, whereas the regular card stock does not. I didn't have it in this shade, so I did the next best thing.  I sponged on some Craft White Ink to my plain 'ol cardstock.  It gives the paper a similar worn look.  It was one of those A-Ha moments.

Although this card has a lot of elements, it still has a very simple look.  I love that about it!  If you would like to add any of these products to your collection, just click on the Order Online icon in the top right-hand corner or pop me an email.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamps:  Apothecary Art; Gingham Wheel
Paper: Chocolate Chip, More Mustard, Cajun Craze & Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: More Mustard Classic Pad & Whisper White Craft Pad
Accessories: Stripes Embossing Folder, Standard Handle, Leaf Dies, Naturals Designer Buttons, Linen Thread, Cajun Craze Candy Dots, Sponge and Glue Dots

French Foliage Postcard

Hi All,

Well, I am home sick for the second day in a row.  I think it's just a cold, could be allergies, who knows?  Either way, I am couch bound and have used up all of my good DVR'd TV.  What's left?  Slim pickins.  If you didn't know...daytime TV is pretty bad, even with cable.  I think Netflix is calling!

One advantage to being couch bound, I have time to get a post together.  The card I have for you today uses my new favorite stamp set: Post Card.  I previously used it for a Birthday card, but have an Autumn one for you today.

I paired it up with another classic: French Foliage.  They are a match made in heaven. Not to mention, Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler and So Saffron make a fabulous fall combo.  Love them together!

The card was full of color, but I felt it needed some texture. So, I popped the circle over the stamp and added some baker's twine with the tag.  I think it all came together quite nicely.

I think this is one of the most versatile stamp sets that SU! sells.  You can use it for any season, holiday or special occasion.  It's pretty fabulous! If you would like to add this to your collection (it's a must in my book), click on the Order Online icon in the top right-hand corner or pop me an email.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Post Card, French Foliage & Falling Leaves
Paper: Early Espresso & Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink: Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler, So Saffron & Crumb Cake Classic Pads
Accessories: 3/4" Circle Punch, Modern Label Punch, Early Espresso Baker's Twine and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

An Elegant Pumpkin

Hi All,

Today's post is a follow up to my last post with another project using the same pumpkin dies I used for the Jack-O-Lantern. This time around, I paired them up with the beautiful Eastern Elegance DSP. This patterned paper is not necessarily designed for fall cards, but it surely works... especially if you're looking for a non-traditional color combo, which I often do.

This DSP is full of beautiful designs in Coastal Cabana, Crushed Curry, Whisper White and the new In Color Smoky Slate.  So fun to play with these patterns!

Like the Jack-O-Lantern, this pumpkin is set on a card base, so it stands vertically.  It would be perfect for dinner place settings or added to your dinner buffet table.

Even if you're not making these adorable pumpkins, this paper pack is a must.  The prints are beautifully feminine, but a few could also be used for masculine cards.  It's very versatile.  If you'd like to add it to your collection, just click on the Order Online icon in the top right corner or pop me an email.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamps: Holiday Best
Paper: Coastal Cabana & Very Vanilla Cardstock; Eastern Elegance DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Pad & Tea Dye Distress Ink
Accessories: Pumpkin Die Collection Die, Pumpkin Sections Die, Decorative Label Punch, Orange Button, Linen Thread, Sponge, Glue Dot and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

Meet Mr. Jack-O-Lantern

Hi All,

This is the second Halloween project that I wanted to share with you.  I got these fabulous new dies and I have so enjoyed playing with them this weekend.  You can use them to create pumpkins (which I will show you later this week) or you can make these adorable Jack-O-Lanterns.

I had seen these cute Jack-O-Lanterns that paired an orange print with black polka dots.  I loved the look so I pulled out some vintage SU! papers: Pumpkin Pie Patterns DSP & Night & Day DSP. The stem was made with Gumball Green Stitched Satin Ribbon. They all work so perfectly together!

These dies are made by PTI and I just love them.  The Pumpkin Die Collection creates the base for the pumpkin.  You can also use this to create a card base that the pumpkin base fits on so you can stand it vertically.  The Pumpkin Sections Die cuts out the individual pumpkin sections, the face and a stem.  So clever!

These fit into a regular size envelope or you can use them for place settings, parties, etc.  Not to mention, you could replicate them with many different prints.  These were one of those things I saw on Pinterest and just had.to.have.  Hope you like them too!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamps: Tiny Tags
Paper: Pumpkin Pie & Whisper White Cardstock; Pumpkin Pie Patterns DSP and Night & Day DSP
Ink: Basic Black & Pumpkin Pie Classic Pads
Accessories: Pumpkin Die Collection, Pumpkin Sections Die, Jewelry Tag Punch, Gumball Green 3/8" Stitched Satin Ribbon, Linen Thread and Mini Glue Dots

Happy Washi-leen

Hi All,

I know, I know....Halloween is over, but I had made some Halloween purchases and didn't get to play with them till this weekend.  So...you are getting a few straggling Halloween projects.  Hope you don't mind ;)

This card features the Witches Brew Washi Tape from the Holiday Mini. I had never used Washi Tape, but was inspired by this card by Andi Potler.

Andi's card was designed around the washi tape.  I thought that was pretty clever!  This tape is super easy to use and has a paper-y texture, so it's easy to tear.  I combined it with the a googly eyed jack-o-lantern from the Got Treats set and it was a pretty quick and easy card to make.  I LOVE those!

The second card I have for you today is one I received from a new customer of mine.  I was very surprised and excited to get it in the mail.  Thanks Linda...it was very thoughtful of you.  It is a super cute card and I love the beaded spider.  Eek!

Halloween cards are so fun to make, but it's one holiday I don't have a lot of products for.  If you're the same way, the washi tape is a great addition, as you can turn it from an embellishment on a 3-D project to the focal image on a card.  It's so versatile!  Be sure to order it before the Holiday Mini ends on January 2nd.

Thanks for stopping by today!

Stamps: Got Treats & All Holidays
Paper: Tangerine Tango, Basic Black & Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink: Basic Black Stamp Pad
Accessories: Witches Brew Washi Tape, Color Spritzer,Tangerine Tango Marker, Googly Eyes, Crystal Effects, Paper Piercer and Piercing Mat

Doily Drama

Hi All,

Two posts in one weekend?  Yep, that's me.  I wanted to get these cards up before I move on to Halloween and Fall themed cards.  I named this card Doily Drama because at my workshop a few weeks ago, it stole the show. It was inspired by a card created by Cristena Bagne.

What's not to love?  The design is simple, but it packs a big punch.  I think the true stars of this card are the Island Indigo and Crumb Cake.  They are Fab-u-lous together and create a great base for the Doily and Baker's Twine.  Pair these up with some antique embellies and you have a winner.

I had a tough time getting the Baker's Twine tight enough to tie a bow.  Here's my tip: wrap your Baker's Twine around the card and before you create your loops, add a small glue dot behind the knot.  This will hold it in place to finish the bow.

I love this card and had fun designing it.  Island Indigo is one of my favorite colors and I enjoyed using it with a feminine spin. Hope you like it too!  Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Oh Hello
Paper: Crumb Cake Cardstock; Sycamore Street DSP
Ink: Island Indigo Classic Pad
Accessories: Tea Lace Paper Doily, Island Indigo Baker's Twine, Petal Cone Die, Vintage Trinkets, Antique Brads, Mini Glue Dots, 1/16" Hole Punch and a Ruler/Pencil to create banner

Soda Pop Top Fun

Hi All,

Happy Weekend!  Time for a little rest and relaxation.  I have a Fall Workshop next weekend, so in addition, I will be doing some paper crafting.  I got some new goodies, so I'm very looking forward to it!

My card for you today uses Soda Pop Tops that I bought back in the spring and hadn't played with.  I came across this tutorial and card from Julie Davison and was inspired to play. (I just love her work.)

Soda Pop Tops...what a fun embellishment!  They come with sharp edges, but you can run them through the Big Shot to curl and soften them.  Julie has a great tutorial on how to do it.  So easy. Stop by her blog and take a look.

For my colors, I knew I wanted to use the Wisteria Wonder.  It pairs up beautifully with the Afternoon Picnic DSP.  I love this paper pack!  The papers are full of beautiful colors and fun designs.  It's so very versatile.

The focal circle was cut out with my Nestabilities and I used the Negative Image.  I originally hadn't paper pierced the inner circle, but as we worked through the card at my workshop, the girls were surprised I hadn't paper pierced it as that is my "Thing".  So, I did a revamp and pierced it using the Essentials Paper Piercing Pack.  It has 10 different circle sizes to use for piercing.  So, it works with virtually any size circle you're working with.  It's a Must-Have if you're a piercer like me.

The only struggle I had with this card was whether to add a sentiment or not.  I have this issue with not stamping a sentiment on the front of the card, so I added one.  But, some of the girls at my workshop, left it blank saying it was a piece of art on it's own, that it didn't need one.  What do you think?  To sentiment or not to sentiment?

I love this card!  It uses so many elements, but they all work so perfectly together.  Unfortunately, SU! doesn't sell the Soda Pop Tops anymore, but I'm sure you can pick them up an any craft store.  I'll be looking for more, as I'm almost out.  If you would like to add any of these papers to your collection, email me or click on the Shop Online icon in the top right-hand corner.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamps: Collage Curios & Petite Pairs
Papers: Wisteria Wonder, Soft Suede and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Afternoon Picnic DSP
Ink: Wisteria Wonder, Soft Suede and Coastal Cabana Classic Ink
Accessories: Soda Pop Tops, 1" Circle Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, Circle Nestabilities, Essentials Paper Piercing Pack, Petal Cone Die, Pearl Basic Jewels, Glue Dots and Pop Dots/Dimensionals

Happy Birthday Mary Beth!

Hi All,

Today is my good friend Mary Beth's birthday.  She is an AVID card maker, so the pressure was on to create something really special for her.  Luckily, I had just gotten a new stamp that hadn't even been inked up or used at a workshop yet, so it was something all new to share with her.  How fun!

I stumbled upon the Post Card stamp as I was flipping through the catalog one day.  I was checking out the hostess sets and noticed that they had paired it up with the Postage Collection Hostess Set.  They are adorable together!  For Mary Beth's card, I just CASED the card from the cattie.

The Post Card stamp is a large stamp and acts as the background stamp for this card.  As usual, I went to my trusty Color Coach to get a combo to play with.  I went with River Rock, Rose Red and Not Quite Navy.  They are fabulous together!

What I love about the Post Card stamp is that you can use it so many ways.  You can make a Halloween postcard, a fall postcard, a winter postcard...the options are truly endless. Another plus, you can embellish it in sooo many ways.  I trimmed down a doily and added a punched stamp in  the corner.  I finished the card by spritzing on some Always Artichoke ink and adding some Rose Red Seam Binding.

Every once in a while, you make a card that you just fall in LOVE with.  This is one of those for me.  I adore everything about it.  If you'd like to add any of these must have items to your collection, send me an email or click on the Order Online icon in the top right hand corner.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamps: Post Card, Bring on the Cake, Postage Collection (Hostess Set), and Collage Curio
Paper: Rose Red, River Rock and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Not Quite Navy, Rose Red and Regal Rose Classic Pads
Accessories: Doily, Postage Stamp Punch, Spritzer Tool, Always Artichoke Marker, Rose Red Seam Binding and Pop Dots/Dimensionals  

Country Morning

Hi All!

Happy Weekend!  I have a sweet little country lovin' card for you today.  I've had this stamp set (Country Morning) forever and have never inked it up.  But, I couldn't bear to get rid of it either.  I knew there would be a use for it someday.  When I got this card together, it just called out country to me and this set just happened to be perfect for it.

Wisteria Wonder was a new In Color a couple catalogs ago.  It didn't grab me then, but this time around, I had to have it.  Not to mention, it is paired up gorgeously with so many other colors in the Afternoon Picnic DSP (Coastal Cabana, Pear Pizzazz, Crushed Curry and many others.)  This card uses one of the hexagonal prints from this pack.  I chose to pair it up with Crushed Curry.  The colors are actually much softer IRL, but seemed to be a bit brighter once photographed.

As if this paper wasn't enough of a show-stopper, the new Chevron ribbon is the perfect accent.  Chevrons are so hot right now and I can't get enough of them.  This ribbon comes in 11 more colors and I'm pretty sure I NEED to have them all!

This paper pack and ribbon are both must-haves.  If you'd like to add these to your collection, just click on the Order Online icon in the top right hand corner: Afternoon Picnic DSP (Item 131390) and the Wisteria Wonder Chevron Ribbon (Item 130017).

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Country Morning (Retired) & Postage Collection (Hostess)
Paper: Wisteria Wonder, Crushed Curry and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Afternoon Picnic DSP
Ink: Wisteria Wonder and Elegant Eggplant Classic Ink Pads
Accessories:Wisteria Wonder 3/4" Chevron Ribbon, Scallop Circle Nesties, Circle Nesties, Essentials Paper Piercing Pack, 1/16" Hole Punch and Crushed Curry Brads

Praying for Comfort

Hi All!

I hope you're not tired of the sweet Swallowtail that I've been sharing with you this past week!  I have one more for you today...And, I think this one may even be my favorite.  It was inspired by this card from Mary Brown. 

I loved how she incorporated the DSP with the butterfly. The floral print is the perfect match!  This print is from the Afternoon Picnic DSP.  What a beautiful pack of paper.  I love the colors and was sold on the Wisteria Wonder and Coastal Cabana color combos.  One of the other colors in the pack is Crushed Curry.  This is one of the prints.  I paired it up with Basic Gray.  They are gorgeous together. And, I also found that they were subtle enough for a Bereavement Card.

This design has two 'Must-Have' items: the Swallowtail stamp (Clear 129216 / Wood 131943) and the Afternoon Picnic DSP (131390). My next couple of cards will be featuring these beautiful papers.  If you'd like to add either of these to your collection, just click on the Order Online icon in the top right-hand corner.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Swallowtail and Thoughts & Prayers
Papers: Basic Gray & Very Vanilla Cardstock; Afternoon Picnic DSP
Ink: Basic Gray and So Saffron Classic Ink Pad
Accessories: Basic Gray Satin Ribbon

Enjoy

 Hi All!

Happy weekend!  I hope you're enjoying it!

I have another sweet Swallowtail card to share with you today.  It's the same background stamp I used in my last post.  This time I used the whole image on the card.  As you can see, when I said it was big, it's pretty big!  So, I kept this card CAS (Clean and Simple) as well.

The Swallowtail has been clear embossed onto Purely Pomegranate card stock.  Yes, this is a blast from the past.  It was one of the first colors that I ever bought from SU....many, many years ago.  It is still one of my favorites.  Rose Red is a shade lighter and a great alternative. 

I love the clear emboss technique.  You stamp your image with Versamark and add the clear embossing powder.  Heat it and your image is set.  It adds a nice glossy effect.

I kept the sentiment simple.  It was stamped and then punched with the Artisan Label Punch.  I folded it over the Pomegranate panel and adhered to the front/back.

What do you think?  Clean and Simple enough?  I sure think so.  That's the nice thing about this stamp.  It doesn't need much embellishing.  It speaks for itself.  If you'd like to add this stamp to your collection, just click on the Order Online icon at the top of the page.  It is Item# 129216 (Clear) or 131943 (Wood).

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamps:  Swallowtail & You're A Gem
Paper: Crumb Cake & Purely Pomegranate Card stock
Ink: Purely Pomegranate Classic Pad & Versamark
Accessories: Artisan Label Punch, Clear Embossing Powder and Embossing Buddy

Swallowtail

Swallowtails.  Butterflies.  Who doesn't love them?  People plant gardens to get them and here in AZ we go to the Botanical Gardens to see lots of them.  I have butterfly papers, butterfly punches and butterfly stamps.  But, what I didn't have was a jumbo butterfly stamp.

Well, I added one to my collection.  It's a background stamp called Swallowtail.  And, it is BIG, which offers quite a few options when using it.  I got the idea for my card from this card by Marisa Gunn. She had stamped the butterfly and then trimmed it down to create a very interesting fold for the card. 

Loved that idea!  I cut my card stock to 4 1/4 x 11.  I lined the card stock up on the ruler at the bottom of my grid paper, and stamped the butterfly a little to the left of center.   Once the ink dries, you can trim the edge of the butterfly and score at 5 1/2.  You'll want to be sure you leave plenty of room to the right of the edge to add a piece of card stock or stamp another image or sentiment. 

I thought this was a fun design to try.  It would actually be a pretty quick and easy one layer card if you wanted to replicate a bunch of them.  If you'd like to add this stamp to your collection, you can purchase it by clicking the Shop Online icon in the top right-hand corner (Item# 129216 Clear / 131943 Wood).

Hope you like it!  Thanks so much for stopping by.

Stamps: Swallowtail, Fresh Vintage and Curvy Verses
Paper: Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink: Raspberry Ripple and Early Espresso Classic Pads
Accessories: None

Happiest Birthday!

Hi All,

Happy Football Weekend! As usual, there were some good games and some bad games.  Unfortunately, my team (The Steelers) were on the losing end of the stick.  Injuries are always our biggest weakness.  Oh well, we'll see what the rest of the season has to offer.

The one nice thing that did come out of today, I did get some crafting time in this afternoon.  We'll see that card later in the week.  For now, I have the third, and final, card that I've made with the Oh, Hello stamp set.  This card uses the "arrow" stamps from the set.  One is the full stamp and the second is the outline.  These are to be used together for 2-step stamping, but I used them separately.

My other two designs focused on DSP, so I wanted to do one that was a bit simpler with just stamps.  As always, my first thoughts are of color.  I pulled out my Color Coach and set to work to find three colors that would work well together. In the end, I settled on Blushing Bride, Pear Pizzazz and Early Espresso.  They offer such a nice soft touch.

So, what do you think?  Great stamp set, huh?  It's definitely worth having in your collection.  If you'd like to add it, click on the Order Online icon in the top right hand corner.  This stamp set is
Item # 130733.

This week we're moving on to Butterflies.  Be sure to stop back in to see what I have in store for you.  Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Stamps: Apothecary Art & Oh, Hello
Paper: Blushing Bride, Pear Pizzazz, Early Espresso and Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink: Blushing Bride, Pear Pizzazz and Early Espresso Classic Pads
Accessories: Vintage Faceted Designer Buttons, Linen Thread and Glue Dots

Gorgeous Print Poetry

When I tell you that I fell in love with this card by Jenny Peterson, I mean I really fell in love with it!  I could not wait to sit down and play.  It's a wonderfully simple design that is made fabulous with the many pretty papers that you could add to it.

This is the second card that I made using the Oh, Hello stamp set.  This card is definitely girly with the Raspberry Ripple color and the polka dot prints.  I just love it!

 

This is the same design using blues and greens.  The focal color is Gumball Green.  Although it's not pretty pinks, it's still gorgeous! 

If you follow my blog, you know that I love to play with different paper patterns.  I could sit around all day pairing up different prints.  That's how I got started with these cards.  The prints I chose for these cards are from the Print Poetry DSP pack.  It was in the 2013 Spring Mini. It's one of the 4 1/2 x 6 1/2 packs.  You get 24 different prints. They are a great deal and usually available in the Minis.  Snatch them up if you see them!

As I sat down, I just started pulling the pad apart and pairing up prints that I liked.  In the end, these are the two pairings I chose.  They are pretty much perfect!  I ended up keeping the basic design that Jenny had used, but instead of the background stamp, I used the Framed Tulips Embossing Folder.  I love the texture that it adds.

The stamp set, embossing folder, Gumball Green products and the Dahlias are currently available in the catalog.  If you would like to add any of these to your collection, just click on the Order Online icon in the top right-hand corner or pop me an email.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamp: Oh, Hello
Paper: Gumball Green, Raspberry Ripple, Crumb Cake and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Print Poetry DSP
Ink: Crumb Cake, Gumball Green and Raspberry Ripple Classic Pads
Accessories: Framed Tulips Embossing Folder, Dahlias-In Color, Oval Nesties, Linen Thread, Mini Glue Dots and Pop-Dots/Dimensionals

Oh, Hello

Hi All,

I'm baaaack! I told you I would be, right?  All I needed was a little motivation from some crafty time with the girls.  We spent a couple of hours together on Saturday and I was in the craft room the rest of the weekend.  It felt really good!

I tried something a little different when I sat down this time.  I took one stamp set and used it three different ways.  The Oh, Hello stamp set made that very easy.  I think it could become one of my favorites.  Here is the first card that I made:

It is a CASE of this fabulous card by Julie Davison.  I loved the design and colors that she chose.  This gorgeous paper is from the Tea for Two DSP that was in the 2013 Spring Mini.  This color combo is Lucky Limeade and Calypso Coral.  They are so pretty together.  A perfect addition to these pretty papers is the Doily.  It adds a nice feminine touch.  Not to mention, they are a great deal at $2.95 for 24. 

As I'll show you in my next couple of posts, this stamp set is very versatile. One of my favorite things about it is the chevron background stamp I used for the sentiment. It stamps in an oval and can be die cut in an oval.  Love it! If you're interested in adding it to your collection, just click on the 'Order Online' icon in the top right hand corner.

So glad you stopped by!

Stamps: Oh, Hello
Paper: Crumb Cake, Early Espresso & Whisper White Cardstock; Tea for Two DSP
Ink: So Saffron, Lucky Limeade and Early Espresso Classic Pads
Accessories: Tea Lace Paper Doilies, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border, Oval Nesties, 1/16" Circle Punch, Everyday Enchantment Brads, Pop Dots-Dimensionals

Happy Father's Day!

Well, with my last post, almost three l-o-n-g months ago, we were headed to Oregon.  Our trip was great and we got to spend time with family...not to mention, the weather was fabulous!  We were actually in Portland for Father's Day, so we celebrated once we got back home...and that happened to push into July.  Better late than never, right???  This is the card I made for my husband.

I had seen some cards that incorporated a few different sentiments centered around a theme.  I thought this would be a good idea for a Father's Day card.  Luckily I had a few sets to pull from. The sentiments were stamped in Crumb Cake onto Crumb Cake cardstock and the "grungy" stamp was stamped in Pool Party on Pool Party cardstock. I love this look.

I know my last couple of posts have been more on the masculine side, but I assure you that I have been in my craftroom ALL weekend and I have some fabulous cards coming your way!  Tune back in later this week to see what I've designed just for you!  Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamps: My Hero, My Dad (PTI) & Grunge Me (PTI)
Paper: Pool Party & Crumb Cake Cardstock
Ink: Pool Party & Crumb Cake Classic Ink
Accessories: Pop Dots/Dimensionals

Happy Graduation Jordan!

Hi All,

I hope your week is getting off to a great start!  We're heading out to Portland, Oregon next week, so mine is a bit busy at work. But, it's worth it...I am looking forward to seeing family and cooler temps.  If you haven't heard, it's HOT in Phoenix already.  So, it's the perfect time to get away!

The card I have for you today was made for one of our good friend's son, Jordan, who just graduated high school.  We were at his graduation party and I found myself remembering how good it felt to have graduated.  So happy to be done with high school and looking forward to a fun, free summer and a new journey on your own at college.  What a great time in your life.  We wish him the best.

I kept it simple and used some of my favorite colors: Island Indigo & Lucky Limeade.

I don't have a Graduation specific stamp, but I found that this sentiment from Word Play works perfectly.  Many graduates are full of dreams as they start on their new journey.

Simple & Sweet.  Perfect for an 18-year-old boy.  Hope you like it!  Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamp: Word Play & Grunge Me
Paper: Island Indigo & Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Island Indigo, Lucky Limeade and Basic Black Classic Pads
Accessories: None

Happy Birthday to the Hubs!

Hi All,

Happy 3-Day weekend!  I, for one, am looking forward to three days off.  At the top of our plans: Star Trek and quite possibly Fast & Furious (Vin Diesel anyone???)  This is definitely the best summer of movies that we've had in a very long time.  There is not much I enjoy doing more than hanging out in a theater for 2 hrs and being completely entertained.

But, since you stopped by my Blog to be entertained, I shall share with you a card that I made for my hubby's birthday.  I CASED this card from Alberta's Closet. I loved the simplicity of it...and you could do it with any color combo.  I chose to use blues and greens.

What is so perfect about this card?  It's soooo easy to make.  I just cut 1/4 inch strips and lined them up on my card.  I placed my stamp in the position I wanted over the strips and marked the top and bottom with a pencil.  I then cut the strips and trimmed to the lengths that I wanted.  After much deliberation, I decided that I preferred a staggered approach for my final placement.

Needless to say, my husband loved it.  He even said it was one of his favorites.  There is something to be said for keeping it clean & simple.  Hope you like it too!  Thanks so much for stopping by.

Stamps:  Bring on the Cake
Paper: Gumball Green, Night of Navy, Marina Mist, Crumb Cake and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Basic Black Classic Pad
Accessories: None...can you believe it?

There's Only One You

Hi All!

I hope everyone has had a great weekend!  With all of the great movies out this month, we headed to the theaters on Saturday.  We saw Iron Man 3 last weekend (which was great), so we headed out to see The Great Gatsby this weekend.  I read the book a few weeks ago and was excited to see it on the big screen..  I must say, this movie is Fab-u-lous!  It is one of those rare instances where the movie is better than the book (The Notebook being the other exception.)

I adored everything about this movie: the clothes, the hair, the parties, the music and, of course, Leo.  This role was made for him and in my mind, there couldn't have been a better Gatsby.  This movie was made to be seen on the big screen, so be sure to get out there and see it.  I'm already giving it my Oscar nod.  It's that good!

OK...now that I've given my ringing endorsement of the movie, I can move on...lol!  My card for you today is a CASE of this card by Nichole Heady.  I loved the colors and the simple design.  I thought it would work perfectly with the Vintage Verses stamp set from Sale-A-Bration 2013.

I wanted a color combo that would be fresh & fun for spring/summer.  I chose this print from the Summer Smooches DSP.  I paired it up with Peach Parfait, Tangerine Tango and Certainly Celery.  The flowers were stamped from the Apple Blossoms stamp set, cut out and popped up.  I added a flat backed pearl to finish them off.

I had a REALLY hard time not adding layers to this, but I persevered and left it as is.  I do appreciate the simplicity of it.  Hope you like it too!  Thanks so much for stopping by...and don't forget to go see Gatsby *wink*!

Stamp: Apple Blossoms & Vintage Verses
Paper: Tangerine Tango & Whisper White Cardstock; Summer Smooches DSP
Ink: Peach Parfait & Pear Pizazz Classic Pads
Accessories: Certainly Celery Grosgrain Ribbon, Half-Back Pearls and Pop Dots//Dimensionals

A Day as Perfect as You Are

Hi All,

Happy Mother's Day!  I hope you each had a wonderful day whether you were spending it with your mother, as a mother or someone who has touched someone as a mother would.  I had a fabulous weekend with my husband and son.  As long as I'm not cookin', I'm a happy camper :)

The sentiment on my card today says it all, "Wishing You a Day as Perfect as You Are".  It's from the Sale-A-Bration stamp set called Vintage Verses.   I love the font and the stamp works perfectly with the Labels Collection Framelits.

The print is from the Twitterpated DSP.  I paired it up with Island Indigo and Cherry Cobbler.  They're a great combo.  To add a bit of texture, I used the Honeycomb Embossing Folder.  I finished it off with Floral Fusion Sizzlets and a Scalloped Border. It turned out to be a pretty simple card to make.  I hope you like it!

If you'd like to add any of these products to your collection, just click on the Order SU! Icon in the top right hand corner or pop me an email.  Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamps: Vintage Verses
Paper: Island Indigo & Whisper White Cardstock; Twitterpated DSP
Ink: Cherry Cobbler Classic Pad
Accessories: Honeycomb Embossing Folder, Floral Fusion Die, Labels Collection Framelits, Scallop Border Punch, White Brad, Pop Dots/Dimensionals and Glue Dots

Thanks!

Hi Friends,

Wow, it has been quite some time since I last posted. I had no idea how long it had been.  2 Months!  I can't even believe it.  Where does the time go?  I guess I did have a bit of an excuse.  I change jobs about 6 weeks ago, so  I guess I've been a bit distracted with all of that.  I haven't done any crafting and that's probably the longest stretch that I have gone.

But, luckily, I did have a workshop a while back that I made a few cards for.  My friend Mary Beth has been reminding me that I need to get these up.  So, Mary Beth, I am sitting down at my computer this weekend just for you ;)

The card I have for you today, has a bit of a different color scheme than I would have normally gone with.  I wanted something different, so I went for it.

The focus of this card is the center panel using the Honeycomb Embossing Folder.  I love the hexagons!  I paired it up with Primrose Petals Core'dinations Card Stock.  This paper is sandable, so of course I had to pull out the Sanding Block.  Once embossed, I just rubbed the sanding block lightly over the top of the paper.  It removes the top layer of color and creates a bit of texture.

I knew I wanted the heart to have a pop of color.  The Print Poetry DSP stack has lots of pretty prints, so I started flipping through the stack.  The polka dots immediately popped out.  The Primrose Petals and Summer Starfruit are just perfect together.  I needed a third complementary color, so I pulled out my Color Coach.  What I found was surprising.  Basic Gray/Primrose Petals/Summer Starfruit are one of the Creative Combos. I don't think I would have ever paired Gray with these two colors, but it works.  Love the look!

I embellished the card up with some Summer Starfruit Stitched Satin Ribbon and a Raspberry Ripple Dahlia.  The stamp is called Vintage Verses and was from Sale-A-Bration.  I love the font--it's so fun!

All of these supplies, except the stamp set, are available for purchase.  If you'd like to add any to your collection, just pop me an email or click on the Order Online button in the top right hand corner. My must have item: the Honeycomb Embossing Folder.  So fun to use and you can dress it up or down.

Sorry I've been away for so long.  I'll try to not let that happen again.  Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamps: Vintage Verses
Paper: Summer Starfruit, Basic Grey, Whisper White Cardstock; Primrose Petals Core'dinations Cardstock; Print Poetry DSP
Ink: Basic Grey Classic Pad
Accessories: Honeycomb Embossing Folder, Hearts Framelits, Sanding Block, Dahlia, Summer Starfruit 3/8" Stitched Satin Ribbon and Crystal Effects (for the Dahlia)

Key to my Heart

Hi All,

Happy Saturday!  I, for one, am glad the weekend is here.  I'm enjoying my Saturday morning tradition: coffee, Project Runway and Blogging.  Usually I'm surfing, but I'm lucky enough to have another card for you guys this week.  I had made it for Valentine's Day, but I just haven't gotten it posted yet.   

My design was inspired by this card from Jenn Sannes.  I love the simplicity of it and the fact that you could sit down and make this with any paper patterns or colors.

The focal point squares are all punched from the Postage Stamp Punch--Easy Peesy!  For the prints I used some Love Letter & First Edition DSP.  Peeking out behind these are some embossed horizontal lines that were created with the Simply Scored Scoring Tool.  It was finished off with some seam binding.

I had leftover pieces from my workshop, so I also made some extras of this card and added a Birthday sentiment.  Just as cute!

My must have item on this card would be the Postage Stamp Punch.  It's so quick and easy to use and I love the look that it gives.  If you'd like to add this or any other goodies to your collection, pop me an email or click on the Order Online button in the top right-hand corner.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamps: You're A Gem
Paper: Crumb Cake and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Love Letter & First Edition DSP
Ink: Basic Black Classic Pad
Accessories: Simply Scored Scoring Tool, Postage Stamp Punch, Small Heart Punch, Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

Sending a Kiss

Hi All,

Happy Belated Valentine's Day! Did everyone have a special day?  We usually keep it low key and avoid all chain restaurants at ALL costs on February 14th.  We ended up at a trendy little restaurant here in Phoenix called the Cornish Pasty.  They serve traditional Cornwall (Southwest England) pasties and they are delicious.  My favorite part of dinner....Banoffee Pie.  Have you ever had it?  If not, you must!  It sounds soooo simple, but it is soooo delicious!  It's a delightful combination of a graham cracker crust, homemade caramel, fresh whipped cream and bananas.  Honestly, heaven on a plate!  Gonna have to try it at home.

Now that I've gotten you all excited about this sweet goodness, I hope you get equally as excited about this card.  It was inspired by a card I saw on Pinterest.  I loved the rounded edges.

 

I needed a fabulous paper to kick this card off.  I chose this print from the Candlelight Christmas DSP.  The original card used actual lace for the horizontal border, but I chose to use my Eyelet Border Punch. For a pop of color, I added in the Bashful Blue Satin Ribbon.  Love how it all came together!

My must-have item on this card is the stamp set.  It's called Petite Pairs (122495/122497).  I had never noticed this set until Kristen Driessen used it on her blog at ZoKris.  I fell in love.  The sentiments come in pairs (Sending a Kiss / To Make it Better, Sending Sympathy and Prayers / To Heal your Heart).  There's one for Christmas, Birthday, Baby, Thanks and a couple more.  It's a versatile set that will get a lot of use.

If you'd like to add this or any other products to your personal collection, send me an email or order online by clicking the Order Online button in the top right-hand corner.  Thanks so much for stopping by!

Stamp: Petite Pairs

Paper: Crumb Cake, Early Espresso and Whisper White Cardstock; Candlelight Christmas DSP

Ink: Early Espresso Classic Pad

Accessories: Small Heart Punch, Eyelet Border Punch, Corner Rounder Punch, Bashful Blue Satin Ribbon and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

A Patchwork Heart

Hi All,

Happy Sunday!  For some of us, it's the middle of a 3-Day weekend, for the rest of us (like me) it's a normal plain 'ol weekend.  My family will be home tomorrow, but I'll be heading into the j-o-b.  I am definitely still trying to make the most of the weekend.  Went to the movies yesterday and am crafting today.  I have a workshop on Thursday, so I have to get to work.

The card I have for you today is based on this video from Melissa Phillips.  It's a great tutorial on making patchwork hearts.  Perfect for Valentine's Day, don't you think???  I saw it and knew I had to make it.

I've seen a few really cute cards with these hearts, but couldn't get any of them to work with my style.  So, I went in search of a sketch and found this one over at Mojo Monday.  I thought it would work perfectly with what I wanted to do:

Here is the card that I created:

The stars of this card are the patterned papers.  I've paired up the new More Amore DSP with the Twitterpated DSP.  The colors worked perfectly together (Real Red & Baja Breeze.)  I'm pretty sure I've used this combo before for Holiday cards.  Love it!

I didn't realize it until the card was done, but do you notice anything else?  There are no neutrals (Whisper White, Very Vanilla, etc.) on this card.  Not sure if I've ever done that before.  I think it works because of the lighter colors on the heart.

I love playing with patterns and colors, so this technique is a lot of fun!  I hope you'll try it out! You could even use other shapes.

Just about everything on this card is available for purchase if you'd like to add some fun new items to your collection.  The new More Amore DSP is a must have!  To order, just send me an email or click on the Order Online icon in the top right corner.

So glad you stopped by!

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: Real Red, Baja Breeze, More Amore DSP & Twitterpated DSP
Ink: Real Red Classic Ink
Accessories: Hearts Collection Framelits, Large Scallop Edgelits, Designer Buttons-Brights, Linen Thread, Grosgrain Ribbon-Real Red, Pop Dots/Dimensionals and Glue Dots