Paper Players Challenge #62 Just for You

I'm just so excited! This is my first week as Guest Designer at The Paper Players and boy have the girls come up with some fabulous cards. It's a Theme Challenge this week: Birthdays. Who doesn't need Birthday cards?

I had just gotten a new SU! order and in it was the gorgeous Mocha Morning Specialty DSP. I knew I wanted to cut this up and get it on a card. All I needed was a sketch. I came across this one at The Sweet Stop.


I had envisioned lots of layers, so this was perfect. The DSP has Soft Suede, Crumb Cake and Very Vanilla. I wanted a pop of color, so I threw in some Melon Mambo. Melon Mambo and Soft Suede were In Colors together, so I thought they would pair together beautifully . Here's the card I came up with:

The colors and layers came together so easily...but, the hardest part for me is finding that perfect finishing touch. After much deliberation, I punched out the banner from the Petal Cone Die, cut it apart and trimmed it down to size. I added a button to each end and I think it adds the perfect balance to the card without being too much.

What do you think? Are you inspired to create a card for that special girlfriend, husband, sister, brother or maybe even a coworker? Well, if you need some inspiration or want to upload your design, be sure to pop on over to The Paper Players and check us out. We'd love to see your creation!

The Paper Players Design Team

Ann Schach

Ann Marie Hile

Jaydee

LeAnne Pugliese

Lesley Croghan

Nance Leedy

Tara Bilbao

Sandra Connor (September GD)

Stamps: Simply Soft (Hostess) & Hodgepodge Happiness

Paper: Soft Suede, Melon Mambo, Crumb Cake & Very Vanilla Cardstock; Mocha Morning DSP
Ink: Melon Mambo Classic Pad & Timber Brown StazOn
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Scallop Border Punch, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Embroidery Floss, Blender Pens, Seam Binding-Crumb Cake, Pink Buttons, Stickles

Hot Off the Press!

Have you heard the news??? There's a new Guest Designer in town...and it's me! I applied to be one of the Fall Guest Designers over at The Paper Players and what do you know-I got picked. I am just so excited to be chosen and can't wait to share my designs and hopefully spark some inspiration.

For those of you that may not know, The Paper Players is a Challenge Blog to get you inspired in making your own creations. There is a new challenge every Sunday. It could be a Theme, Color or Sketch Challenge. I hope you'll pop in and see what the Design Team has come up with. I feel very lucky to be working beside so many talented ladies.

My first guest appearance is this Sunday, Sept 4th and I'll be there weekly through December. Be sure to stop on by!

http://thepaperplayers.blogspot.com/

Lavender Lace Butterflies

This is another version of the card in my previous post. I designed that one with pink, this one in purple. Which do you like better? I must say, I usually prefer the more subtle colors, but I love the brighter Lavender Lace and So Saffron combination here. It's just pretty.

I don't have much more to add about this card, but I will share that one of my other cards was featured over at My Crafty Picks this week. Stop over and check out all the work by the other lovely ladies.

I have also been keeping a very exciting secret that I can't wait to share with you guys. Check back in next week to see what it is! Enjoy your weekend.

Stamp: Kindness Matters, Short & Sweet
Paper: Lavender Lace, So Saffron & Very Vanilla Cardstock; Shades of Spring DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
Accessories: Postage Stamp Punch, Scalloped Edge Punch, Petal Cone Die, Pearls, and Yellow Tulle

Pretty Pink Butterflies

Is this not the sweetest little card ever? I got a request for a personalized Baby Girl card and immediately thought of this stamp set. It's called Kindness Matters and is one of my new favorites. The butterfly images are just precious.

I got the design inspiration right out of the catalog on pg 121. I thought it would be perfect for highlighting the baby's name. The name was printed on vellum and cut out with the Petal Cone Die. After I took the picture, I decided to add baby pearls before and after the name. It gave it the perfect finishing touch.

I love all the layers that this card creates. I hope you like it too! Thanks for stopping by.

Stamps: Kindness Matters
Paper: Pretty in Pink, So Saffron and Very Vanilla; Shades of Spring DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
Accessories: Postage Stamp Punch, Petal Cone Die, Scallop Border Punch and Yellow Tulle

{thanks}

Happy Weekend Everyone! It is finally here. If you would have asked me an hour ago if I'd be updating my blog tonight...the answer would have been a resounding no. I was ready to lay down, pull out my Nook and retire for the evening.

But, I got my second wind on the way home from dinner. We were rockin' out to the new Chili Peppers song: The Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie. It's amazing how music can have that affect on you. Just this week, I was driving to work, listening to the 80s, and landed right back in 1984. Apache Junction, AZ....7th Grade...Billy Ocean singing Loverboy. I don't think I've heard that song since then, but I caught myself singing it all day with a smile on my face. You gotta love those moments & memories!

This stamp set brings back lots of memories for me too. I think that's why I love it so much. I grew up in the country with lots of wild flowers. This image reminds me of all the flowers that grew in the fields around our house. I think it inspires a feeling of peace.

My new 'Color I Wish I Had' is Tangerine Tango. I think this set would be beautiful with it. For this card I settled for my vintage Only Orange stamp pad. I had it tucked away and forgot I even had it till I went looking for a brighter orange. I love the look of it stamped on the First Edition DSP. Got the idea from Ilina Crouse's card here. I may redo it and sponge the edges a bit, but for now, it works. Hope you like it!

Stamps: Field Flowers & Pretty Postage
Paper: Early Espresson, Only Orange and Very Vanilla Cardstock; First Edition DSP
Ink: Garden Green, Only Orange and Early Espresso Classic Pads
Accessories: Scallop Edge Border Punch, Large Oval Punch, XL Oval Punch and Linen Thread

Rustic Field Flowers

Well, this is truly a record. I haven't even had my new SU! goodies for 24 hours and I have a card made. I've been excited for orders in the past, but I think this was one of my favorite boxes to receive. It has all my favorites from the new catalog.

The focus of this card is the stamp set: Field Flowers. For this card, I was inspired by a card on the front of the new catalog. The orange and brown pair so nicely together...and that pop of green is just perfect.

I distressed just about every layer on this card using my distressing tool. Just run it around the edges, rough them up a bit and you're done. I then finished it off by sponging on a bit of Chocolate Chip. Hope you like it!

Stamps: Field Flowers, French Script & Short & Sweet
Paper: Peach Parfait, Chocolate Chip Textured and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Woodland Walk DSP
Ink: Peach Parfait, Pear Pizzazz, and Chocolate Chip Classic Pads
Accessories: Modern Label Punch, Distressing Tool, Rik-Rak, Green Brads, 1/16" Hole Punch, Paper Piercer and the Mat Pack

Pretty Pink Bouquet

My card today is a CASE of this beautiful card by Vicki Burdick. There was something so very feminine about her card.

I don't have the Fabulous Florets stamp set yet, so I substituted the Fifth Avenue Floral set. I think it works just as nicely.

The flowers were colored using a Pretty in Pink stamp pad and my Blender Pens. They are colored lighter toward the center and darker at the tips. Before adding pearls to the center, I colored in some brown accents using my Chocolate Chip marker.

One of my favorite parts of her card, is the stitching she did randomly around the border. I pierced the holes with my mat pack, then stitched them with a needle and some pink embroidery floss I had on hand. It adds the perfect touch.

I had such fun recreating this card and love how it turned out. I hope you do too. Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Fifth Avenue Floral, Nature Walk, Short & Sweet
Paper: Pretty in Pink, Crumb Cake and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Shades of Spring DSP
Ink: Pretty in Pink, Certainly Celery and Chocolate Chip Classic Pads
Accessories: Mat Pack & Paper Piercer, Pink Embroidery Floss, Designer Buttons-Subtles, Linen Thread, a Needle, Basic Pearls, Dimensionals/Pop Dots and Glue Dots

Fabulous Flower

Hi All! It's good to be back. I took a little hiatus for my brother's wedding in California and then just took the rest of the week off from crafting altogether. I feel so refreshed and ready to go.

This card was inspired by Vicki Burdick's seen here. She used a bit of embossing on the Flower Fest stamp set. I don't have this stamp set, but felt pretty confident I could create something similar. The first thing that came to mind was my Nestabilities. I cut three different sizes and stacked them. I recreated her embossed edge by sponging the edges with some Whisper White Craft Ink.

I needed a Mom Birthday card and a Petal Cone to match, so it was fun to try out a different style on the cone. I did the same flower and added the Little Leaves Die Cut. So feminine...so pretty. Hope you like it! Thanks for stopping by.

Stamps: Bring on the Cake & Non-SU Alphabet Set
Paper: Regal Rose, Certainly Celery and Whisper White Cardstock; Sweet Always DSP
Ink: Regal Rose & Basic Black Stamp Pads; Whisper White Craft Pad
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Little Leave Die, Scallop Circle Nestabilities, Half Back Pearls, Certainly Celery Satin Ribbon, Light Green Rik-Rak, Corner Rounder Punch and a sponge

A Bit of Beach

Yes, this is really me...I'm not incognito, nor have I stolen this picture from someone else. This picture was snapped in my craft room one night, so it doesn't have the normal background image you're used to seeing.

I needed a birthday card for someone who loves the beach. I soon realized that I do not have one stamp set that is beach themed. I think I have everything but.

So, I started brainstorming. What reminds me of the beach? I immediately thought of color --- blues! I chose three different shades to represent the different colors of water: Not Quite Navy, Marina Mist and Bashful Blue. They are gorgeous together.

I then began to peruse all of my mom's die cuts (which happen to be on vacation in my craft room.) I came across a sand dollar. This just happens to be one of my favorite things about the ocean. I thought it would be a perfect addition to the card.

I think there is something very peaceful about this card...and reminiscent of the beach. It makes me want to be there right now ;)

Stamps: Happy Harmony
Paper: Not Quite Navy, Marina Mist, Bashful Blue, Chocolate Chip, Crumb Cake and Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink: Chocolate Chip & Crumb Cake Classic Ink
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Fun Flowers Die, Sand Dollar Die, Scalloped Edge Border Punch, Brown Buttons, Linen Thread, Brown Sheer Ribbon, Sponge and Glue Dots

Strength & Hope

Happy Weekend Everyone! I, for one, am glad it's here. Next weekend is my brother's wedding, so I am using this weekend to primp and check off those last minute items before we head to CA. Of course, there's always time for card making and a quick little post.

My card today is a CASE of Teneale Williams' beautiful creation seen here. Her card is pure gorgeousness in purples. I switched it up and used pinks.

This stamp set is great. Not only will it help you create some super pretty cards, but for every purchase of this set, Stampin' Up is donating $2 to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Those are two great reasons to add this to your collection. It is available till August 31st in the Summer Mini. But don't wait....get it now and put that cute butterfly to use.

Stamps: Strength & Hope
Paper: Melon Mambo, Crumb Cake and Very Vanilla Cardstock
Ink: Melon Mambo & Crumb Cake Classic Ink
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Fun Flowers Die, Half Back Pearls, Very Vanilla Satin Ribbon, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, Glue Dots and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

Happy Graduation

My card was inspired by this card made by Mary Fish over at Stampin' Pretty. I loved the clean design and the different colored arrows that she created.

I needed a masculine Graduation Card, so I pulled out the Travel Journal DSP. The recipient likes greens and blues and I knew this pack would be perfect.

I made yet another masculine Petal Cone to go with it. I kept the focal image neutral with circles and kept the same design as the card.

I love how these turned out...I hope he does too! Thanks for stopping by.

Stamps: Word Play
Paper: Night of Navy, Old Olive, Crumb Cake and Whisper White Cardstock; Travel Journal DSP
Ink: Night of Navy Classic Pad
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Circle Nestabilities, Old Olive Marker, Mat Pat & Paper Piercer, Green Brads, Crumb Cake Seam Binding, Hole Punch and Pop Dots/Dimensionals

Sweet 16

Ohhh...to be 16 again! I so couldn't wait to be 16, and then it was 18, and then everyone's favorite 21. I've had just a couple more since then...*wink* *wink*

I needed a card for a larger-than-life 16-year-old. My first thought was rhinestones...and lots of them! She also likes pink and purples.

My super cute pink polka dot panel came from the Shades of Spring DSP. I paired it up with Concord Crush and Pear Pizzazz. As if this card wasn't girly enough already, I added a bit of stitching to the side of the panel.

I don't have a sewing machine, so I had to improvise. I used my mat pack to pierce alternating holes and then I took a needle with some embroidery floss and stitched away.

I usually don't tie big bows on cards, but this time it seemed fitting. I think it all works together perfectly. Hopefully she likes it!

Stamps: So Very
Paper: Concord Crush, Crumb Cake, Pear Pizzazz and Whisper White Cardstock; Shades of Spring & Lap of Luxury DSP
Ink: Concord Crush Classic Ink
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Fun Flowers Die, Circle & Scallop Circle Nestabilities, Mat Pack & Paper Piercer, Rhinestones, Embroidery Floss, Green Ribbon, Designer Buttons-Subtles, Hole Punch and Glue Dots

Best Wishes

I needed a wedding card that would 'Wow'. What do you think...does it work? When I think of wedding cards, I always think elegant. In this case, I used the Bella Blue DSP.

The prints in this pack are pretty and sophisticated. I played around with the prints until I got two that would work together. In this case, I did not use the coordinating prints on the sheet-front/back. I usually do.

My brother is getting married in two weeks and we're all pretty excited for him. Lucky for us, we'll be going to CA and getting out of the 110+ degree weather here in AZ. I'm looking forward to a little beach time.

Do you have a wedding card that you've made that you'd like to share? If so, I'd love to see it. Be sure to leave me a link! Thanks for stopping by.

Stamps: Bella's Bloom & Vintage Labels
Paper: Crumb Cake & Very Vanilla Cardstock; Bella Bleu DSP
Ink: Early Espresso Classic Ink
Accessories: Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Top Note Die, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Early Espresso Taffeta Ribbon, Half Back Pearls and Dimensionals/Pop Dot

The Tree of Life

I had a request for a set of masculine Sympathy cards. I kept them very simple and focused on color.

I was picking through my stacks of paper and pulled out the Walk in the Park DSP. Both of the patterned pieces are from this pack.


The leaves on the Old Olive print were a perfect match for the tree. Old Olive pairs nicely with Chocolate Chip, so I used that as the base.

The gray print that I used on this card is one of my favorites. I know gray is a neutral color, but I love to use it when designing. It's so pretty!

It's often during sad times that we need to send a sympathy card, but sending one that is handmade with your personal thoughts or memories may be something the recipient cherishes. Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Thoughts & Prayers
Paper: Old Olive, Chocolate Chip, Basic Gray, Going Gray and Whisper White Cardstock; Walk in the Park DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip & Basic Gray Classic Ink
Accessories: Lots of Tags Die, Paper Piercer and Mat Pack

Puppy Love

When you think of puppies, what do you think of? Puppy breath, toys, lots of licks and...lots of newspaper. Carrie Gaskin over at Artistic Avenger ran with the idea of newspaper and incorporated the Newsprint DSP into her card.

How cute is that? Of course, I needed to do my own version ;) I took her basic design and switched it up a bit. That scalloped square in the middle? I made that using my Scallop Edge Border Punch. So, if you don't have the die, you can still make it work.

I love all the little pieces of this card and how they come together. Hope you like it too! Thanks for stopping by.

Stamps: D is for Dog
Paper: Poppy Parade, Crumb Cake & Very Vanilla Cardstock; Newsprint DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Scallop Edge Border Punch, Circle Nestabilities, Brown Gingham Ribbon, Brown Brad, Sponge and a Hole Punch

D is for Dog

If you've ever had a pet and lost one, you know how hard it can be. Having a great vet and vet hospital is helpful during this difficult time.

One of my customers has just gone through this and wanted a thank you for her vet and the hospital that helped her. I came across this card from Carris Gaskin over at Artistic Avenger and thought it would be perfect.

If you noticed, I actually stamped on this petal cone. This stamp set has little paw prints and I thought they would add the perfect touch. Hope you like it!

Stamps: D is for Dog
Paper: Crumb Cake, Chocolate Chip and Whisper White Cardstock; Sweet Pea DSP
Ink: Crumb Cake & Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, 1/16" Circle Punch, Green Brads, Circle Nestabilities, Chocolate Chip Grosgrain Ribbon and a Hole Punch

Pumpkin Spice & Something Nice

Orange is not one of my favorite colors...it's often just a bit too bright for me. It was definitely not so in this case.

I saw a card similar to this one, where the designer trimmed down a sheet from the Sweet Pea DSP Pack. (Unfortunately I didn't save the link.)

This button is a Designer Big Button. They are quite larger than a standard button, but as a focal point on a card, they work. I pulled my ribbon through the holes and tied a knot. Love the look! Hope you like it too ;) Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Afterthoughts
Paper: Chocolate Chip & Sweet Pea DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Fun Flowers Die, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Designer Big Buttons-Sweet Stitches, Brown Button, Sheer Brown Ribbon, Orange Ribbon, Linen Thread, Hole Punch and a Glue Dot

A Pixie Pinwheel

OK, enough of all that masculine stuff! Here's a fun summer card using the pinwheel technique that I've seen popping up everywhere.

Although it looks very tricky to make, it's actually so easy. The hardest part for me, was finding a patterned paper that I liked the front and back of for the pinwheel design.

1. You're going to cut a square the size you want your pinwheel to be. This one is 3"x3".

2. Next, you take a pair of scissors and cut toward the center from each of the corners-Do Not cut all the way to the center. You want to leave some uncut paper.

3. Fold one corner toward the center and press on the back edge. Continue this clockwise until all of the ends overlap in the center.

4. Lastly, grab your paper piercer, pierce through the edges in the center of the pinwheel and add a brad. This holds everything in place.

These are so fun to make and you can make them different every time! My design kind of resembles a present. Too cute! I would love to see your pinwheel if you decide to make one, so be sure to leave me a link. Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Bring on the Cake
Paper: Crumb Cake & Sweet Always DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
Accessories: Scissors, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Brown Brad and a Glue Dot

I have a great dad!

This is the card my son gave to my husband for Father's Day. These images were the reason I bought these stamp sets. My husband isn't really into golfing, hunting, boating or most other themes that masculine stamp sets come in.

What my husband does have an appreciation for is art. We both enjoy abstract art, so these images are perfect for creating mini works of art. You could make the same card in different colors and it would have a totally different look.

I promise this will be my last masculine card for a while. I have some super pretty girls stuff coming up! Thanks for stopping by.

Stamps: My Hero, My Father (Non-SU!) & Grunge Me (Non-SU!)
Paper: Wild Wasabi & Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Old Olive, Garden Green & Basic Gray Classic Ink
Accessories: Corner Rounder & Dimensionals/Pop Dots

The Best Dad

This is the card I gave my husband for Father's Day. It is a CASE of another Nichole Heady card. The simplicity of the card is perfect for a masculine theme.

My colors on this card: Pear Pizzazz, Old Olive, Baja Breeze and Not Quite Navy. These all pair up so nicely together.

I'm not sure if you noticed or not, but I pulled out my Scorepal and scored a couple of lines on the bottom of the card. It's perfect for a masculine card in the sense that it adds some dimension without adding ribbon ;)

Hope you like it!

Stamps: My Hero, My Father (Non-SU)
Paper: Not Quite Navy & Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Pear Pizzazz, Old Olive, Baja Breeze, Not Quite Navy & Basic Gray Classic Ink
Accessories: Scorepal & Dimensionals/Pop Dots

Pop Art Dad

Doesn't this look like a piece of Pop Art? I think so...all the fun colors and a bit of grunge! This is another CASE of a card made by Nichole Heady. She has such a great sense of style.

Although the stamp sets used on this card are not SU!, all the paper and ink are. I originally went with more muted earth tones for the different colors, but ended up with these brighter ones: Real Red, Only Orange, Daffodil Delight, Green Galore, Basic Gray and Tempting Turquoise. I love the pop they give against the Basic Gray.

Hope you all had a great Father's Day!

Stamps: Grunge Me (Non SU!) & My Hero My Dad (Non SU!)
Paper: Real Red, Only Orange, Daffodil Delight, Green Galore, Basic Gray, Tempting Turquoise and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Basic Gray Classic Ink
Accessories: Alpha Blocks Die (Non SU!) and Dimensionals/Pop Dots

You Rock!

Who says Petal Cones are only for girls? I think this one proves that theory wrong. I got a request for a male teacher thank you card and petal cone. There are no buttons or bows...so it's perfect.

This is one of the few non-SU! stamp sets that I have. I saw all the fun geometric images and had to have it.

This is a CASE of a Nichole Heady card. I kept the design exactly the same, I just changed the colors. I settled on Marina Mist and pulled out my trusty Color Coach to see what would coordinate. Old Olive was one of the 'Getting Started' combination colors. Pair it up with Basic Black and you have a masterpiece.

I had fun playing with all the designs in this set. Hope the teacher loves it!

Stamps: Grunge Me
Paper: Marina Mist, Basic Black and Whisper White Cardstock
Ink: Marina Mist, Basic Black and Whisper White Classic Ink
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Circle Nestabilities, Hole Punch and Black Satin Ribbon

Simple Beauty

Well, I think I saved the best for last. This set was my favorite of them all.

It was inspired by this card that Jen Sannes made over at SCS. I kept the same simple design, but gave it a couple Julie touches.

What drew me to this card was her subtle use of color. She had used Dusty Durango for her pop of color, but I chose to use Rose Red. I adore this color and as you can see, it works perfectly with the Soft Suede and Very Vanilla. They are a match made in heaven *swoon*.

A button finishes off the card. I have never had much luck securing buttons over the ribbon, so luckily, this button lended itself to being tied with my ribbon. I ran the ribbon up through the holes and tied a knot. Love it!

This card would be great for any occasion, but for me, it's definitely the perfect wedding card. I just happen to have one coming up, so I see myself making another.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Warmest Regards
Paper: Soft Suede, Rose Red & Very Vanilla Cardstock; Thoroughly Modern DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Fun Flowers Die, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Brown Buttons, Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon, Very Vanilla Satin Ribbon, Linen Thread, Hole Punch and Glue Dots

Packed with Polka Dots

What girl doesn't love some polka dots? I sure do and when I saw this cute little ensemble, I knew I had to recreate it.

I was talking to a girlfriend last night and she's considering buying some basic supplies to get started with card making. It got me thinking, what are the necessities?

I made a few teacher thank you cards last year with a friend who had grabbed what she had and headed over: cardstock, ribbon and flowers. She had gotten all of these for free at a Bazzill warehouse clearance and didn't know what to do with them. We put together a simple design similar to this one and they were a hit. All she really needed from me was a little guidance and a stamp.

If you are considering card making, look around your crafty space and you may already have some of these basic supplies. You may just need that go-to stamp set. SU! has plenty of those and I'd love to help you pick one out. Feel free to email me if you need a creative director. I'm your girl! Thanks for stopping by.

Stamps: Afterthoughts
Paper: Basic Black & Very Vanilla Cardstock; Love Letter DSP
Ink: Basic Black Classic Ink & Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Fun Flowers Die, Scallop Border Punch, Black Satin Ribbon, Linen Thread, Fabric Flowers, Clear Rhinestone Brad, Red Button, Sponge and Glue Dots

So Saffron Savvy

My card was inspired by this beautiful creation by Mercedes Weber. The simple design and color scheme define sophistication.

This print is from a sheet in the Sweet Pea DSP pack from a while back. Many of us have it, but how many of us use it? It is full of fabulous prints, both masculine and feminine. Many of the sheets, like this one, can be trimmed up and used as the base for your card.

I would have never thought to pair up So Saffron, Basic Black and Crumb Cake. Thank you Mercedes for inspiring me to try something new. I hope you all like my take on it. Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Clearly for You
Paper: Crumb Cake & Basic Black Cardstock; Sweet Pea DSP
Ink: Basic Black Classic Pad
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Fun Flowers Die, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Corner Punch, Hole Punch, Paper Daisy, Designer Buttons-Subtles, Black Satin Ribbon, Linen Thread and Glue Dots

No 147: Bashful Bird

I got the inspiration for this card from the fabulous Jackie Wright. You can see her card here. She made her card in about 64 seconds, mine took a little longer.

First, I switched up the base color and went with Bashful Blue. It needed a vintage-y look, so I inked it up. For this technique, I opened up my stamp pad and just started dropping it on the cardstock in different directions. I did the same for the petal cone before I assembled it. This gives it a different look that what a sponge does. I think that worked better for coordinating with this piece of DSP.

Next, I stamped the bird from the Nature Walk set and cut it out. It was then popped up with pop dots to give it some dimension. Finally, I added a layer of Early Espresso, some Rik Rak and it was done.

Once again, this print is from a whole sheet of the Botanical Gazette DSP that was just trimmed down to a portion that would fit a card. It doesn't get much easier than that ;)

Hope you like it!

Stamps: Nature Walk & Because I Care
Paper: Bashful Blue, Early Espresso & Very Vanilla DSP; Botanical Gazette DSP
Ink: Early Espresso Classic Ink
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Fun Flowers Die, Large Oval Punch, Hole Punch, Brown Button, Linen Thread, Shear Brown Ribbon, Brown Rik Rak, Dimensionals/Pop Dots and Glue Dots

The Cherry Cobbler Gazette

This card is a CASE of Ilina Crouse's card seen here. The design was simple and the colors were gorgeous! See those yummy red raspberries, that print is trimmed down from a full sheet in the Botanical Gazette DSP.

To go along with the card, I created a coordinating petal cone. The vanilla was a little plain, so I spruced it up by stamping a butterfly on the cardstock before putting it together. It's adds a nice little touch.

On a final note, did you notice anything different about the flower on the petal cone? There's a brad in the center and it's one I've never used before. It's taken a year, but I finally ordered the Antique Brads. This brad added the prefect vintage-y feel to the design.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Nature Walk & Because I Care
Paper: Cherry Cobbler & Very Vanilla Cardstock; Botanical Gazette DSP
Ink: Cherry Cobbler Classic Ink
Accessories: Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, Petal Cone Die, Fun Flowers Die, Antique Brads, Cherry Cobble Seam Binding, Mat Pack & Paper Piercer and Glue Dots

SC336: Shades of Spring

I got a request for (6) teacher thank you sets: one coordinating card and petal cone. So, I sat down and went through all my papers to find patterns that would work for both.

This first set uses the Shades of Spring DSP.
The colors are fun and fresh and work
perfectly for my customer's request for something Spring-y.

My inspiration for the card was this sketch challenge over at SCS. This was an easy one. I just needed a pattern that would work on its own.

If you follow my blog, you know I LOVE to make these petal cones, so I am enjoying making them with different colors and DSPs. I hope you like them...thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Swirls & Curls Verses
Paper: Orchid Opulence & Very Vanilla Cardstock; Shades of Spring DSP
Ink: Orchid Opulence Classic Ink
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Fun Flowers Die, Mat Pack & Paper Piercer, Purple Buttons, Linen Thread, Very Vanilla Satin Ribbon, Hole Punch and Mini Glue Dots

Nursery Suite-Baby Girl

This is the companion to my Nursery Suite set for a Baby Boy that you can see here. I had a request for a Baby Girl Altered Composition Book and this is what I put together.

I love playing with papers and colors and making these books allows you to do both. This is made with the Nursery Suite DSP that includes this Regal Rose Circle Doily and a Baja Breeze Square Doily.

If you are a scrapbooker, this paper pack would be a perfect addition to your pages. It is currently on the Last Chance list and will be gone once it's out of stock. Email me or check out my website to order this item. It works perfectly with feminine or masculine projects. Hope you like it!

Stamps: Whimsical Words & A New Little Someone
Paper: Regal Rose, Barely Banana and Very Vanilla Cardstock: Nursery Suite DSP & Sweet Stitches DSP
Ink: Regal Rose Classic Pad
Accessories: Swiss Dots Embossing Folder, Slim Jim Sizzlets, Scalloped Edge Punch, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Yellow Brads, Pink Rik-Rak, Yellow Tulle and Dimensionals

My Sew Pretty Butterflies

It finally happened, I got together with my sweet friend Nicole and we broke out her sewing machine. How fun! I think I could be hooked. I also think I know what I want for my next birthday present (psst...hint to the hubby ;)

I went through all my card samples to gather some ideas, but I settled on a card I saw in the Occasions Mini. That card used various sized hearts that were stitched up the middle. I switched it up and used butterflies. I think they worked perfectly with this DSP.

This was also the first time I used River Rock on a card. Up until now, I considered it a neutral color, but now I see it as a really pretty light green.

Have I inspired you to add some sewing to a project? If I have, I'd love to see it. Be sure to leave me a link. Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Tiny Tags
Paper: Always Artichoke, River Rock, and Rose Red Cardstock; Springtime Vintage DSP
Ink: Always Artichoke Classic Ink
Accessories: Sewing Machine, Thread, Scallop Edge Border Punch, Jewelry Tag Punch, Beautiful Butterflies Die, Buttons, Embroidery Floss, Linen Thread and Small Glue Dots

SC335: All Pieced Together

I promise that my next post will have different colors than green and brown...ha ha! What can I say...when you're inspired, you gotta roll with it.

I saw this sketch challenge over at SCS and was up for the challenge. You needed to take three patterned papers and piece them together to create a frame. I chose the Woodland Walk DSP because the whole pack has the same color combo, so it would be easy to coordinate.

I created my frame first and then worked on the rest
of the card. This one did not come together easily. I sat down with it on three different occasions over a
couple of days.

I struggled the most with the focal image. I was going to stamp it, but couldn't find anything I liked. I tried the owl punch, that didn't work either. I finally pulled out the XL Fancy Flower Punch and that was the ticket. I think it pulls everything together. The sentiment is from Bella's Bloom. This has truly become one of my favorite all-time stamp sets because it is so versatile.

I love how it turned out and I hope you do too. Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Bella's Bloom
Paper: Early Espresso, Wild Wasabi and Very Vanilla Cardstock; Woodland Walk DSP
Ink: Early Espresso Classic Ink
Accessories: XL Fancy Flower Punch, Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, 3/4" Circle Punch, Brown Button, Linen Thread and a Small Glue Dot

SC333: A Greenhouse Thanks

Well, the creative juices seem to once again be flowing. I actually sat down yesterday to create. As I mentioned in a previous post, I am totally hooked on the Greenhouse Gala DSP. The colors and print are fabulous.


Using that as inspiration, I went in search of a sketch. I stumbled upon this one over at SCS. It was perfect for what I had to work with.

I had saved all the scraps from the Fun Flowers I cut out for the Petal Cone dies I had done. There's not enough for a full card, but when trimmed up, I had enough scraps for the small portions of this design. It just goes to show...never throw away those scraps, especially of paper you love ;)

Hope you like it & thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Swirls & Curls Verses (Hostess)
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Baja Breeze and Whisper White Cardstock; Greenhouse Gala DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
Accessories: Fun Flowers Die, Mat Pack & Paper Piercer, Brown Button, Linen Thread and Glue Dots

Wedding Favors II: Greenhouse Gala

If you saw my previous post, you know that I've been busy making these Petal Cones. I needed to make 90 of them for a wedding.

This is the second set that I made. I chose to use the Greenhouse Gala DSP for these. The colors in this pack are gorgeous and just perfect for summer.

I decided early on, that since I had to make 90, I would keep it simple. All the Petal Cones are Chocolate Chip. Each flower is made with a half sheet of the DSP. I used one side of the sheet for one layer and the other side for a layer. It's amazing how these are designed to coordinate. It made my job super easy.

These die cuts are both a must have. They have become my favorites. Hope you like them!

Stamps: None
Paper: Chocolate Chip and Pear Pizzazz Cardstock; Greenhouse Gala DSP
Ink: None
Accessories: Petal Cone Die, Fun Flowers Die, Pear Pizzazz Seam Binding, Buttons, Glue Dots and a Hole Punch

Wedding Favors I: Woodland Walk

Hi Everyone! Remember me....Julie Marshall. Yes, I'm still here. It has just been a busy quarter at school and I've had very little free time. Of course, that can't happen for long, right????

About 2 1/2 weeks ago, I got an email inquiring about these Petal Cone Dies. They were interested in about 90 for a
wedding. My first thought: can I make 90 of these? My second thought: do I have time to make 90 of these?

Well...I made 90 of these and it actually wasn't that bad. After being given the color scheme, I decided on the Woodland Walk and Greenhouse Gala DSPs. They had the majority of the colors we needed. Then it was off to decide on cardstock, ribbon and buttons. I loved playing with all these goodies and pairing them together.

The Woodland Walk DSP didn't jump out at me in the catalog, but the colors are gorgeous. This pack produced some of my favorite cones in the project. The greens and browns are fabulous together. Which is your favorite? Be sure to leave me a comment...I'd love to hear.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: None
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla, Wild Wasabi & Garden Green Cardstock; Woodland Walk DSP
Ink: None
Accessories: Petal Cone Die Cut, Fun Flowers Die Cut, Very Vanilla Seam Binding, Chocolate Chip Taffeta Ribbon, Linen Thread, Buttons, Glue Dots and a Hole Punch

Baja Bliss

This color combination is one of my absolute favorites. I love Crumb Cake, Baja Breeze and Very Vanilla together...and, these prints from the Springtime Vintage DSP are just perfection.

The Fun Flowers Die Cut is the newest addition to my collection. I LOVE the (3) different flower designs and how they layer together. In addition to these three flowers, the die cuts two different size circles that could also be layered and used instead of/in addition to a button.

I've also seen this die used with fabric. I just happen to have some and can't wait to play. Hopefully I'll have a card or project soon to show you that. In the meantime, I'd love to see how you've used these two dies if you have them. Be sure to leave me a link and share!

Stamps: None
Paper: Crumb Cake & Very Vanilla Cardstock; Springtime Vintage DSP
Ink: None
Accessories: Petal Cone Bigz Die, Fun Flowers Bigz Die, Big Designer Buttons-Springtime Vintage, Baja Breeze Seam Binding, Linen Thread, Glue Dots-Medium and a Hole Punch

Springtime Flowers

This is the second Petal Cone Die that I put together for the Fabulous girls that run the front office of our school.

When run through the Big Shot with two sheets of cardstock, this die will cut all the supplies needed to put this together. You get (2) Main Body pieces, (2) Scalloped Half Circles and (2) Banners. Everything is then glued together in less that 2 minutes. It's that easy.

There have been plenty of times that I've hand cut these banners for other projects, but this die does the perfect cut for you. You could probably even use the Scalloped Half Circles as well...I just haven't given those much thought yet ;)

These Petal Cones are very versatile and could be used for Baby Shower or Wedding Favors, Teacher's Gifts and can even be hung on hooks as a decoration. They are so fun and can be done in so many different ways. Hope you enjoy them!

Stamps: None
Paper: Pear Pizzazz & Rose Red Cardstock; Springtime Vintage DSP
Ink: None
Accessories: Petal Cone Bigz Die, Fun Flowers Bigz Die, Big Designer Buttons-Springtime Vintage, Rose Red Grosgrain Ribbon, Linen Thread, Glue Dots-Medium and a Hole Punch

Petal Cone Perfection

A while back, I offered to swap some die cuts with my sweet friend Jamie over at Shabby Horse. I had the super cute Mini Milk Cartons and she had the gorgeous Petal Cone Dies. How nice to share with fellow crafters ;)

I wasn't sure if I wanted to buy this die cut, so I was glad to try it out. I am now quite certain, that this is a must buy. They go together so easily and you can decorate them up in so many ways. I had just gotten my Fun Flowers Die and decided to finally sit down and put these together.

It is Administrative Professionals Week, so I made these for the Fabulous girls that work in the front office of our school. They truly do keep everything running smoothly, so I wanted to make them feel special. I filled these with some Hershey Kisses and they were a hit!

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: None
Paper: Rose Red & Baja Breeze Cardstock; Springtime Vintage DSP
Ink: None
Accessories: Petal Cone Bigz Die, Fun Flowers Bigz Die, Baja Breeze Seam Binding, Designer Buttons-Subtles, Linen Thread, Glue Dots-Medium and a Hole Punch

Note: Spoil Yourself Today

Wouldn't you love to do that everyday...spoil yourself? I sure would. One way I spoiled myself...pretty much buying everything in the Occasions Mini. Anyone else out there spoil themselves this way???

I think this is the last stamp set from the mini that I have to share. The 'Note' image and composition lines are from the Notes & Details stamp set. Not only is the font super cute, but the set is so versatile.

I actually did get to use the Springtime Vintage Fabric on this card. I used it as ribbon and also die cut a matching butterfly. I think they make quite the ensemble ;) Have you used any of the fabric? If so, I'd love to take a look. Be sure to leave me a link in the comments.

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Notes & Details (122022 or 122060) and Bring on the Cake (121899 or 121958)
Paper: Very Vanilla Cardstock (101650); Springtime Vintage DSP (121782)
Ink: Pear Pizzazz Classic Pad (119784)
Accessories: Designer Fabric-Springtime Vintage (121817), Big Designer Buttons-Springtime Vintage (122301), Beautiful Butterflies Die (114507), Linen Thread (104199) and Anywhere Glue Stick (104045)

A Springtime Friend

This card is a CASE of Ilina Crouse's card here. I love how she combined all of these elements. I did change out some of the accessories on my card. I don't have the Beveled Windowpanes, so my focal image is just stamped and layered. A simple approach, but just as effective.

My favorite part of this card...the Springtime Vintage DSP. I love this paper pack! It is everything feminine and in just the perfect way. I got the matching fabric and hope to have a project to share with you soon. Hint: Think Fun Flowers Die ;)

Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: You're a Gem (122268 or 122270) & Bella's Bloom (Retired)
Paper: Crumb Cake (120953), Not Quite Navy (101722), Early Espresso (119686) and Whisper White (100730) Cardstock; Springtime Vintage DSP (121782)
Ink: Not Quite Navy Classic Pad (103008)
Accessories: Framed Tulips Embossing Folder (121809), 1/2" Baja Breeze Seam Binding (122331), Big Designer Buttons-Springtime Vintage (122301), Not Quite Navy Marker (100059), Old Olive Marker (100079), Linen Thread (104199), Paper Piercer (116631), Mat Pack (105826)

A Year Better

"Not just a year older, but a year better." That's the sentiment on this card. Fabulous huh? This is one of the many sentiments from the Bring on the Cake stamp set. It truly is a must have set.

This card is a CASE right out of the Occassions Mini. I would have never put these colors together, but they truly do work. I think this may also be the first time I've used Marina Mist. It's such a pretty shade of blue.

I needed a third card for my last workshop and my creativity just wasn't flowing. When all else fails, pick up a catty and take a look. It works every time!

Stamps: Clearly for You (121911 or 121976) & Bring on the Cake (121899 or 121958)
Paper: Marina Mist (119682), Old Olive (100702), Cherry Cobbler (119685) and Whisper White (100730) Cardstock
Ink: Marina Mist (119668) and Cherry Cobbler (119669) Classic Pads
Accessories: Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch (119275), 3/16" Corner Rounder (119871) Mat Pack (105826), Paper Piercer (116631) and Sending Love Epoxy Brads

PPA89 & SR#67 Bella's Parisian Bloom

It's everywhere...Spring is in the air! Pals Paper Arts challenged us to use flowers in a design and Stampin Royalty says 'Spring has Sprung', stamp anything from birds, blossoms and babies to baseball. My inspiration was this bloom from Bella's Bloom.

I love the simplicity of this flower and paired it with the french images from French Foliage. I thought the water droplets were a perfect representation of the April Showers that many of us are/will be getting.

The hint of DSP is from one of my all-time favorites: Raspberry Tart. I paired it up with Rose Red and Old Olive. What a pretty spring combination. I hope you like it ;) Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Clearly for You (121911 or 131976), French Foliage & Bella's Bloom
Paper: Rose Red (102544), Old Olive (100702) and Whisper White (100730) Cardstock; Raspberry Tart DSP
Ink: Rose Red (101778), Old Olive (102277) and Early Espresso (119670) Classic Pads
Accessories: Scallop Edge Border Punch (119882), Modern Label Punch (119849), 1/16" Circle Punch (101227), Mat Pack (105826), Paper Piercer (116631) and Sending Love Expoxy Brads.

Monkey 52: I Like it a Latte

There's a new kid on the block: A La Card Monkey. Shirley and Terry just kicked off a new Challenge Blog at the beginning of April and they are off to a great start. You should definitely pop on over to check them out for some inspiration!

I was more than happy to help out when they asked me to be a Guest Designer. It has been quite some time since I've been creative in my craft room, so it was time to get back in the saddle.

The challenge was a coffee or tea card with this sketch. Since I only have one coffee set, it was easy to get started. I had seen a card some time ago by Laurie Schmidlin that used microbeads on the coffee cup. That's what I did here. The cup is stamped in Black Stazon, smeared with 2-Way Glue and dusted with Clear Microbeads. I love the effect that it gives and how it works perfectly with this DSP.

I think this will make the perfect Thank You card and I can't wait to send it. Thanks for stopping by!

Stamps: Like it a Latte (Retired) & Tiny Tags (118091 or 118592)
Paper: Basic Black (121045) & Very Vanilla (101650) Cardstock; Love Letter DSP (117162)
Ink: Jet Black Stazon (101406) & Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Accessories: Jewelry Tag Medium Punch (117190), 2-Way Glue (100425), 5/8" Black Satin Ribbon (117285), Basic Black Brads (119736), Sponges (101610) and Clear Microbeads