Stamptacular Stuff

February Stamp Class and Beyond!

2009-02-13T14:11:00.000-08:00

Here are the upcoming projects for February! First, a bow holding frame:

You could even put a name on the frame if you wanted to.I will pull out all of the ribbon and paper I have so that you can customize your project. Notice the ring on the bottom of the middle ribbon. I needed that for all of the ribbons I tie around my girls' ponytails. You could leave it off and have extra ribbon if you like.

The next project are cards that can hold gift cards. One more feminine, one more masculine. Isn't the paper adorable? It's brand new--it's called Good Morning Sunshine:

The slots on the inside could be left out if you are not the type to give gift cards:In March we will be creating a set of sympathy cards made with the brand-new stamp set "Thoughts and Prayers". These are the kind of cards you wish you never needed, but sometimes you do. It's a great way to let someone know you're thinking of them. Here is the full set:

And individually:
And our April class, in time for Mother's Day, we will be making a box. I still need to figure out what to put in it. Should we leave it empty or wrap little candy bars or something? Any ideas?

January Classes and Upcoming Promotions!

2009-01-18T19:46:00.001-08:00

Time to get ready for Valentine's Day! Here are the projects for January:
The other big news is that the new catalog is HERE! Yay! Also, starting February 1st, for every $50 you spend on Stampin' Up merchandise you, you can pick any item from the Sale-a-Bration mini catalog for FREE! There are four stamp sets, a paper bundle, and a ribbon bundle to choose from. You don't want to miss it!

November Class and Specials

2008-11-12T18:16:00.001-08:00

I have been a bad, bad blogger! Time is just flying by! I am really looking forward to our upcoming class on November 21st (Friday). Doesn't everyone need Birthday and/or Christmas cards every now and then? Here are the card choices for the class (envelopes are included):

The cost is $10 for 10. That's a totally good deal--it pretty much only covers the cost of the supplies. But, since that is what I charged at Super Saturday I thought it would be fair to charge the same amount for the class. Because of the cheap price, I'm not doing bring-a-friend discounts this time.

However, if you bring a new friend, you can take home a free stamp! I have some super-cute retired stamps that were created especially to fit in the Stampin' Up scalloped circle punch (but look adorable on their own as well)--you can pick from what I've got, and it's yours!

And let me tell you about this month's Rub-On Special. Buy $20 in Stampin' Up product and buy as many sets of rub-on's as you would like at 20% off! These are found on pgs. 178-179 in the catalog, and there are an additional 2 sets in the Holiday Mini catalog. Instead of $10.95, you pay only $8.76 for a 2-sheet pack. If you don't own a lot of stamps but enjoy making cards or creating scrapbook pages, rub-ons are fantastic!

Upcoming Class Projects

2008-10-09T15:14:00.000-07:00

For my October stamp class we will be doing mini boxes of cards and Halloween tins. The class will be October 17th (a Friday) and you can come at either 10am or 7pm. The cost is $5 for the boxes of cards and $2.50 for the tins. Please RSVP by Saturday so that I can have enough supplies for everyone (if you forget, contact me. I may have enough for you!)

I'm Still a Slacker!

2008-10-07T14:36:00.000-07:00

I am too busy having fun with my family! My brother was just here for a week and now my mom is here. I'm so lucky. It's nice having a "buddy" to hang out with every day.

Here is a card that was inspired by Karen Giron at "The Sweetest Thing"--every time I read that title I start singing the U2 song. I loved her card and had to try it. Here is my version:

I've got to make more of these in the future. I gave mine away already : ).

Supplies: Bella Rose DSP, Tangerine Tango & Baja Breeze CS, Chocolate Chip, Really Rust, Baja Breeze, and Real Red ink (I used Stampin' Write markers along with an ink pad to get the multicolor leaves).

Back in Town and Back to Business!

2008-10-01T20:54:00.001-07:00

My DD and I just got back from a little visit to St. Louis. I've started a tradition of rotating through my kids and taking one along each time I go. I love the one on one time that it gives me with each of them, in addition to being easier and less expensive. So, I plan on posting much more often now. I have been so busy creating that I have plenty to share.

This is another of the cards that I created for an auction at church. I came across this stamp at a local craft store and just HAD to have it. I love that "curly" tree so much! This was my first time experimenting with my Stampin' Write markers. I would LOVE to have all of these someday, but for now I will pick up a few here and there as I go. They are only $3.25 a piece and come in nearly every Stampin' Up color.

For this card, I inked the upper part of my stamp with my Chocolate Chip ink pad. I used a moist q-tip to remove it from the areas I wanted a different color. I used my Real Red and Really Rust markers to color in other areas of the stamp. Then I "huffed" breath on the stamp to make sure all of the ink was good and moist, and stamped.

Paper: Bella Rose DSP, Tangerine Tango CS, Baja Breeze CS, (the orange polka dot strip was something I found in my old craft stash)
Ribbon: Baja Breeze

2008-09-22T11:27:00.000-07:00

This card was inspired by one of Stampin' Up's Artisan Award winners, Robin Desko. Here is a pic of her beautiful card:

I decided to change the dimensions because I was giving this card as part of a gift set and wanted to be able to include an envelope (standard size). I also have left my scalloped circle punch at a friend's house, so I had to tweak the idea to fit my own supplies. Here is what I came up with:

I used Chocolate Chip cardstock as my card base. I used the new Scalloped Edge punch to create the Whisper White border at the bottom. I paper peirced along where the Chocolate Chip and Whisper White meet. I used the "Flight of the Butterfly" set with a sentiment from "Best Yet" (this is a Level 1 hostess set--you could earn it for free!). I used the Kiwi Kiss paper from the Bella Rose DSP, along with Baja Breeze and Kiwi Kiss cardstock. Some Baja Breeze cardstock finished the whole thing off!

I'm a bad, bad poster

2008-09-20T16:04:00.000-07:00

I've had tons of cute project to share sitting around for a week now--I've just been too lazy to post them! I think I'll start off by sharing this super cool "free standing pop-up card" that I learned how to make from a tutorial on Splitcoast Stampers. You can find the instructions here. When I became a Stampin-Up demonstrator, I added a lot of birthdays to my calendar. I love having cards on hand all of the time to give to neighbors and friends when it's their special day. This one went to the mom of my kids' best buds.

I totally love this card. I'm not sure how well it would mail because of the bulky parts, but I plan on doing more of these for my local friends and neighbors.

I used Tangerine Tango cardstock as the base of the card and covered it with Kiwi Kiss DSP. I used Baja Breeze (still my favorite color) for the tag part of the card. I layered whisper white cardstock on top of that and stamped "Upsy Daisy" in Kiwi Kiss along with one of the butterflies from "Flight of the Butterfly" in Baja Breeze. I embossed the butterfly with clear embossing powder. The sentiment is also from the "Upsy Daisy" set. I stamped it in Riding Hood Red. I used my circle punches to create the pull at the top of the card and tied some Kiwi Kiss Ribbon onto the jumbo eyelet. For the front, I added two buttons from the Button Bouquet--first I ran some orange thread through the holes (the thread was just something I found in my craft stash).

Give it a try! It's worth the effort!

Season of Friendship

2008-09-13T09:16:00.000-07:00

I just looooved this stamp set as soon as I saw it. It is in the new Holiday Mini catalog and will be available Oct. 1st. For those of you coming to my bags class on the 19th, I'll have a mini catalog for you! This stamp set includes the tree, flower, leaves, snowflakes, a bird, and the sentiment. Just wait until you see the project they did in the catalog using this set--it's incredible.
For this card, I started with a Kraft CS base. I used Baja Breeze for the background (my new favorite color). I stamped the tree in Versamark ink on Kraft cardstock. I added a strip of Kiwi Kiss DSP and stamped the sentiment in Baja Breeze on Pink Pirouette CS. I did the flowers about three different ways before I settled on one. I stamped them in Pink Pirouette ink on Whisper White cardstock an cut them out (punching them out with a circle punch looks really cute too). I added some rhinestone accents, silver brads, and Baja Breeze ribbon. I can't wait to play some more with this set--so versatile!

Summer Home Inspired Birthday Card

2008-09-10T15:11:00.000-07:00

I really love the color combo of the Summer Home Simply Scrappin' Kit. That color combo was my inspiration for this birthday card. I used the same (almost) layout as I did in my Christmas card a few posts ago (sorry, I tried to create a link for you, but it's being stupid). I will be offering both cards as Stamp-a-Stack classes at church. Easy to make and easy to duplicate! As always, it's hard to see the dimensions of the card in the photo. the cupcake icing and the little present circle are popped up on dimensionals.

Papers: Kiwi Kiss DSP, Chocolate Chip, Riding Hood Red, Baja Breeze, and Whisper White CS. Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Whisper White Craft, Baja Breeze, Chocolate Chip Ribbon: Chocolate Chip

Kwerner Blog Color Challenge

2008-09-03T21:17:00.001-07:00

I had "one of those days" today. Nothing seemed to go quite right. To give an example, I backed out of the driveway today and broke the mirror off of my husband's car. That was bad enough, but when my DD came home from school she brought me a bunch of pieces of broken red plastic. Turns out I busted my tail light too! I was grumpy before that, and the day continued to not be the best I've ever had.

I decided that I needed some down time tonight. So, I sat down to stamp. It really helps to focus on something else for a while and relax and create. Kristina Werner listed another color challenge today and I was excited to give it a try. This is one of those cards that came out of the blue--I didn't really have any idea what I was going to do when I started. It was fun. I really like it, especially the cheerfulness of the colors (just what I needed today!)

I used "Birds Galore" by Inkadinkadoo and the sentiment and corner flourishes are from Papertrey Ink. I stamped the bird image on Kiwi Kiss with Whisper White craft ink. I sponged some Regal Rose chalk on the flowers and bird. I added some Rose Red chalk to the bird's belly. I did faux stitching around the Kiwi Kiss layer. I popped the bird up on dimensionals and added some sticky rhinestones.

Here's to tomorrow!

Bows in Baja Breeze and Kiwi Kiss

2008-09-02T16:38:00.000-07:00

I've run out of cute things to put in my girls' hair lately--our hair do-dads have slowly dwindled down to a small collection. Wouldn't ya know it, SU ribbon makes fabulous bows! And the Button Bouquet buttons top them off perfectly. Now I need to get all of the colors. My DD wore a cute little autumn outfit today that would have looked great with a Tangerine Tango bow!
To make the bows fuller, I made two three loop bows and stacked them on top of each other. I learned how to make bows just by reading tutorials online. If you have girls and you haven't tried it, give it a whirl! SU ribbon is fabulous, and their rolls are so generous that you can make bows like these with plenty left over for you paper crafting : ).

A Little Christmas in August!

2008-08-28T15:52:00.000-07:00

I know it's still summer (and thank goodness it is--we sure waited long enough for it to arrive!) but I wanted to ink up this beautiful "Snow Swirled" set that I got from the new catalog. I'll be offering a class in November to stamp a set of 10.
The first time I saw this set I immediately thought of placing rhinestones in the centers of the snowflakes. I used Chocolate chip cardstock and ribbon, Kiwi Kiss CS, and Riding Hood Red CS. The paper at the top is from the new Holiday Treasures DSP (sooooo gorgeous!). I stamped a snowflake in the lower right corner of the Kiwi Kiss layer using Versamark ink. The tree and sentiment are stamped using Whisper White craft ink.

Like a Kid in a Candy Store!

2008-08-27T16:59:00.000-07:00

Last night I was lucky enough to get to craft at my friend Ana's house. She works for CK Media and is a big crafter, so she is a girl after my own heart. She is also totally hilarious. She's great. She also gets free product sent to her from every paper crafting manufacturer imaginable, so being creative in her craft room was a total blast. There was so much to choose from it almost made it impossible to make a decision. I think the gals got a good laugh over watching me change my mind 20 times just to make one card. Since I wasn't stamping or using my usual products I was a little out of my element.

Here is my creation:

The paper, the chipboard, and most of the rub-ons are from "Laundry Line" by My Minds Eye. The papers were gorgeous and glittery--I just couldn't resist them! It was fun. Now I have to hang on to this card for a little bit until I'll feel ready to part with it!

Two Challenge Combo

2008-08-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

This card was inspired by Kristina's color challenge:

And Taylor's Cupcake Challenge sketch:
I just got the Say it With Scallops stamp set today and immediately thought of using the flowers on this stamp as the "pop" of color on this card. This was a quick one, I really like the way it turned out, especially because I never would have used this color combo all on my own:
I embossed the basic gray layer in clear embossing powder with a stamp from Hero Arts. I popped the center square up on dimensionals, which you can't see in the photo. Then I added some "gems" from my local craft store. Voila!

Upcoming Classes

2008-08-21T17:41:00.000-07:00

Here is the schedule of upcoming craft classes I’ll be doing at my house. It’s fun and a great way to great social outlet. You can come during the day (10:00) and bring your kids, or, if you prefer a little time away from the kids, you can come in the evening (7:00) on the dates listed (if you can't make it, I'll assemble the project for you). I cut all of the paper ahead of time, so you just stamp and assemble. I will also provide copies of the instructions for you to keep.

August 29th (Friday)--FREEBIE--I will demonstrate two different stamping techniques, then you choose your favorite and give it a try (on a card that you will be able to keep). Also, Stampin' Up has just released a brand spankin' new catalog full of new stamps, ribbon (several sets are discounted for the premier), papers, punches--it's a great catalog! They also have added a line of vinyl home decor based off of their beautiful stamp designs, and the BIG SHOT die cutting machine. I would love to have you here even if you aren't interested in the catalog! I am hoping to create a group of women who love being creative together more than anything!

September 26th (Friday)--Gift Bags--Did you know that you can make custom gift bags from two 12 x 12 sheets of paper? I took one to a baby shower and it was a big hit (picture below and on my blog)--and you can do it too! It’s easy to make custom bags for birthdays, baby showers, or Christmas. I will take you step by step through the process, then you take your bag home to use for your own gift-giving! I will have a variety of paper and ribbon available for you to choose from.

October—Box of Mini Cards—Create a beautiful box full of matching cards with envelopes. These are perfect for giving as little appreciation gifts to friends, family, teachers, etc. Or keep it for yourself—the cards are the perfect size for a quick thank you or to attach to a present.

Hope to see you there!

Taylor's Cupcake Challenge

2008-08-16T19:41:00.000-07:00

I thought Taylor's cupcake Friday card was so cute this week. I loved the sketch and decided to try it out as I was playing with all of my new SU goodies from the awesome new catalog. Here is the sketch she gave us to work with:I just got the new "Flight of the Butterfly" set on Friday. I couldn't wait to ink it up! And the new "In Colors" are so bold and bright that they seemed perfect to pair with the butterflies. Here's what I came up with:
I embossed the butterfly and flower images with clear embossing powder. I popped the butterfly wings up on dimensionals. The little flower in the center is from the same set. I used the "Sweet Celebrations" set to create the words around the flower (using white craft ink). I also paper peirced the brown and orange layers around the flower. The brown polka dot paper is from the brand new "Bella Rose" DSP. Thanks for the challenge Taylor! It was fun!

Custom Made Gift Bag

2008-08-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

I had a baby shower to go to the other day and no wrap or bag to put the gift in, so I decided to make my own bag following the tutorial posted here at the "Inking Addicts" blog. It was so fun! I went through my stash of old scrapbook paper and found the perfect thing to use. This paper is covered in the word "daughter" in every language imaginable. I decided to fold over the top and added a cardstock flap. Then I used my Crop-a-Dial to punch holes for the ribbon and added some jumbo eyelets. Chocolate Chip ribbon finished off the whole project.

Did you notice the cupcake bouquet in the background? I helped plan two baby showers this week and made a cupcake bouquet for each one. Both moms used brown as one of their colors--paired with light green for one mom and light blue for the other. I was excited to have the chance to try making the bouquet ever since I had seen it demonstrated at a church enrichement night. Here's a closer picture of the bouquet:
I painted the pot and stamped it with brown craft ink (I don't know what brand) and Whisper White Craft ink. The stamp set was one of the $1 sets from Michaels. I love the little baby face and teddy bear!

Stampin's not just for Cards!

2008-08-11T18:51:00.000-07:00

I have been re-doing the decor in my living room this last week, changing the accent color from brick red to lime green. I had this framed piece for quite a few years that used a lot of red and sage green and I wanted to change it up to match the new room. I'm really happy with the results!

I should have taken a "before" picture. I replaced the old background paper with Chocolate Chip and Kiwi Kiss colored DSP from the Bella Rose DSP pack. Then I used the "Priceless" stamp set and Close to Cocoa ink to stamp the corners. I added some prima flowers with brads in the centers (I had to cut the prongs off). For the other corners I embossed the butterfly from the "Dreams Du Jour" stamp set. I also put some rhinestones on, but I haven't decided if I like them yet. What do you think? Here are some detail shots:

Gift Card Holder

2008-08-09T09:26:00.000-07:00

I made this gift card holder the other day for my friend Kari, who is expecting TWINS! I so love the paper with the little airplanes and cars on it--too cute!

Here is the inside of the card:

The dimensions I ended up with were 3 1/2 x 3 1/2. I used Night of Navy cardstock, Bella Rose DSP (the green with white dots), and white taffeta ribbon. I also used some Doodlebug rub-ons to put her name on the front and the card amount on the inside.

This week is her baby shower (and another for my neighbor, Stacey). I'm excited to do a cupcake bouquet for each of the showers. I've seen it done, but this will be my first try. I've painted and stamped a pot to use too, so I'll post on here afterwards so you can see how it turns out!

Kristina Werner Color Challenge

2008-08-07T11:06:00.000-07:00

This one was a fun one, although I didn't start out thinking it would be! Here are the colors we had to work with--a stretch from what I would normally choose.

It all came together for me when I remembered the Thickers that I bought at Hobby Lobby last week. I decided to emboss the butterflies from the new Dreams Du Jour set (available August 11th) to bring in the other colors.
Cardstock: Basic Black, Kiwi Kiss, Rose Red, Summer Sun Ribbon: Pumpkin Pie Striped Grosgrain Stamps: Short and Sweet, Dreams Du Jour Ink: Whisper White Craft, Basic Black

Set From the Brand New Catalog!

2008-08-05T09:31:00.000-07:00

The new catalog is totally amazing and starts August 11th--I can't wait! I'll be having a free make-and-take/catalog unveiling celebration here at my house. It'll be lots of fun. Here is a card I made with one of the sets I was able to pre-order. It's called "Dreams Du Jour" and it is such a beautiful set. I chose to use the "chalkboard" technique on this card. I stamped the image in white craft ink on Chocolate Chip cardstock and then rubbed chalks onto the white ink to create the color.

I did the butterflies and the central image with this same technique. Then I covered each with a coating of Crystal Effects to give them some shine. I added a little sticky rhinestone in the center. Do you like the scalloped edge? It was made using the brand new scalloped edge punch from the new catalog (it is fabulous and super quick!)

The card background is made using the brand new In Colors and Bella Rose DSP. Cardstock: Tangerine Tango, Chocolate Chip, Baja Breeze, Pacific Point DSP: Bella Rose Ribbon: White taffeta

Yay For Twins!

2008-07-31T20:00:00.000-07:00

My great friend Kari is expecting twins. Here's her shower announcement--hope she likes it! Love ya, Kari!

SU Convention Fun

2008-07-31T10:10:00.000-07:00

I was able to spend the morning yesterday up at convention with my upline and former roomie Dannie. It was so fun. I cannot believe the number of people. And everyone was as excited about the new catalog as I was. We had a great time looking at it--I have a list of everything I want to order when August 11th arrives! Here are a few things I want to get that are new:

*Scalloped square punch

*Stamp set that coordinates with the scalloped square punch

*1 1/4 inch grosgrain ribbon

*Filligree brads

*Button boquet (a collection of cute buttons in the new In Colors)

*DSP--the new papers are absolutely gorgeous!

*Vanilla Hodge Podge Hardware

*Mini Library Clips

You are all going to love the new catalog! The first thing we did was go to the Momento Mall. We got to check out with THE Kristina Werner. It was fun seeing her in person. She's super talented and her blog is awesome. I got this camera case. The colors and everything come from one of the new Designer Papers:

Isn't it cute? They also had a matching supply tote. But, I resisted!

After Momento Mall we sat down to swap cards and check out the new catalog. Then we browsed the display boards. Here are some of the beautiful things on display:

Then we took off and hit some craft stores. We went to 5 different stores by the time the day was over! In the afternoon we got to tour the Stampin' Up facilty. Throughout the building there were some beautiful projects on display, many of which I have seen in past publications:

Sorry it's sideways! I'm too lazy to edit it right now!

Do you see the frogs in the boquet? Sooooo Cute!

There is a little museum in the facility that shows some history of the company. Then it has rooms that showcase the uses of the products. Great home decor ideas! This one was done with the Dots are Hot stamp set. I've gotta try it!

And this:

It was a great day! I am inspired! I hope you feel it too!

Faux Metal--So Cool!

2008-07-29T14:36:00.000-07:00

I tried the faux metal technique that was demonstrated on SU!s demonstrator website. It was so fun! This was my first try at embossing--I just got my heat tool and embossing powder this morning.

My color combo was inspired by the new Simply Sent kit "Flower Power" which will be available in the new catalog coming out August 11th. This stamp set will be in it too. It's called "Dreams Du Jour" and I love, love, love it!

Cardstock: Pink Pirouette, Pretty in Pink, Perfect Plum, Kiwi Kiss DSP: Bella Rose

I would love to teach you how to create this faux metal effect. Just contact me!

Sympathy Card

2008-07-27T18:06:00.000-07:00

This is a sympathy card that I made to send off to someone. I actually have never done a sympathy card before. I was excited to use my new "Birds Galore" set by Inkadinkado. I LOVE it. It is a stamp set that I had seen used and just HAD to have it! I'm so glad I got it because it is so versatile in it's uses.
My favorite stamping product lately is the Versamark pad. Sooooo awesome! I used the Versamark pad along with a background stamp to create the flowered background on the card. I love that the Versamark pad can create this "tone on tone" look. It saves me from having to have ink in every single color!
For the main image, I stamped it three times. Twice in Close to Cocoa, and once in PTI's Spring Moss. I cut out several of the Spring Moss leaves and adhered them to the image. I cut the bird out and popped him up on dimensionals.
Cardstock: Kraft, Aqua Mist, Close to Cocoa, Whisper White Paper: PTI's Everyday Blessings Ink: Close to Cocoa, Spring Moss Ribbon: PTI's Spring Moss satin ribbon Stamps: Birds Galore (Inkadinkado) and PTI's Mixed Messages

I Think I May Have Found My Mojo!

2008-07-23T16:49:00.000-07:00

I have just been so busy this summer and have really let my passion for stamping slide. I think sometimes that is a good thing though, then I can start again with renewed enthusiasm. The brand-spanking-new Stampin Up catalog is coming out August 11th, and demonstrators are allowed to pre-order certain items. I'm totally excited to be meeting my upline and old roomie, Dannie, up at Convention next Wednesday! Yay! We'll get to spend some time together, shop, go out to eat--what could be better? Even though I'm not an actual attendee at Convention, I will still be swapping a tiny bit. Here is the card I made with all of my new goodies!

All of these items will be available in the new catalog, along with many, many more! I can't wait!

Cardstock: Close to Cocoa, Riding Hood Red, Kiwi Kiss, Whisper White DSP: Bella Rose (the rose at the top of the card is cut from this paper and covered in Crystal Effects and Dazzling Diamonds glitter) Ribbon: Chocolate Chip grosgrain Stamps: Heard From the Heart Punches: 3/4" Circle punch

Babies Galore!

2008-06-19T10:03:00.001-07:00

Seems like everyone is either pregnant right now or just had a baby. I was looking on Ebay and found this Studio G set I'd been wanting for awhile. Love this cute little baby face! Too bad I didn't find this set when Michael's had it in their dollar spot--I had to pay a little bit more than a dollar : ). Totally worth it though. I love these little images!

This one's for a friend that just had a little girl:

This one is for a friend that just had TWIN girls:
Everything is SU except the card base and matching ribbon (PTI). And, of course, the stamp. I gave their faces some color by rubbing in some pastels with a sponge. I colored in the words with my blender pens and ink.

June Card Class

2008-06-09T12:29:00.000-07:00

I don't know about all of you, but I have a lot of pregnant friends--some of them are even expecting twins! It's gotten me in a "baby card" kind of mood. I like creating things that are a little unusual. Isn't it fun to give someone a card that is different from all the others? Well, these acetate cards are fun to make and also fun to give. Ya gotta love acetate! (These are really cut from overhead transparency sheets!)You can write on the white layer within the card. Here is what the cards look like closed:
I cut all of the cardstock and paper for you, you just get to do the fun parts--stamping and punching! Here are the details:

DATE: June 20th

TIME: 1:00 (this is a daytime slot and you are welcome to bring your children)
7:00 (the evening slot for those who need a little time out)

PLACE: My home

COST: $2.00 per card--you let me know if you want boy or girl or a combo

I will be offering $5 off any order of $25 or more to those who attend the class. No purchase necessary to take the class! Here are the specials for the month:

E-Scape Bundle:
Description Page Number Price
Circle of Friendship stamp set p. 143 $17.95
Love Notes assortment p. 167 $8.95
Rose Red Classic Stampin' Pad p. 165 $5.25
Very Vanilla 5/8" grosgrain ribbon p. 191 $7.95

Total (non-bundled) $40.10
eScape Bundle price $30.00
With your $5 coupon from me, you could get this whole bundle for $25.00!

Fresh Cuts Promotion:

When you purchase the brand new, die-cut Fresh Cuts stamp set, add on the coordinating Fresh-Cut Notes* for only $5!

Just let me know this week if you would like to attend!

Trying out Papertrey

2008-06-08T19:40:00.000-07:00

I spend a bit of time each day browsing blogs and posts over on Splitcoast because I really love seeing everyone's creations. I have really enjoyed a lot of the things I've seen using Papertrey Ink's stamps, so I decided to try out some. I babysat for a friend a couple of days during May--so I had some "fun" money to spend. The first sets I bought were "Mixed Messages" and "Boxes, Bags, and Tags". I had a lot of fun! The first thing I made was this Birthday card:Then, as I was browsing blogs, I came across this tutorial on my friend Dannie's blog. I decided to expand on the look of the card I had made and create a whole set.
Then I made a notecard holder like the one in the tutorial to hold the cards and envelopes:

Here is the notecard holder closed. One thing I learned was that this holder really works better with cards that do not have a lot of embellishment. It gets overstuffed with a lot of ribbon and whatnot. Mine worked out ok, but it was pretty full!

Bee Happy! Summer's Here!

2008-06-02T18:14:00.000-07:00

Summer is officially here, can you believe it? I don't know about you, but here the summer weather has been sloooow in coming. My kids are finally out of school and it seems like the weather has taken notice. Today was actually quite warm. Good thing, too. My two oldest kids started swim lessons today and I was a little concerned that the weather may not cooperate. It was their first time and they were a little nervous but they both loved it.

Maybe this heat will bring on the strawberries and tomatoes out in my garden! I can hardly wait!

Being an SU demonstrator, I usually spend my hobby funds on SU supplies (they really are fabulous!) but I just couldn't pass up this bee stamp from Stampendous Stamps. It is part of their "Bee Happy" line of stamps. Too cute! I stamped the image in Basic Black ink and then used my Blender Pens to color it in with So Saffron and Blue Bayou. I punched him out with my 1 3/8" circle punch and backed it with a Certainly Celery scalloped circle. The flower was cut from my original stamped image. I used my Basic Black Stampin' Write marker to extend the stem and then popped the flower up on a dimensional. I used some Crystal Effects and Dazzling Diamonds glitter on the image and the So Saffron brads. I also paper peirced around the Soft Sky layer. This one was fun to give away!

Baby Acetate Card

2008-05-27T16:10:00.000-07:00

For my upline's next stamping meeting she has challenged us to make a card with bling. I always wanted to create an acetate card, so I incorporated both ideas into this card. I have also seen this color combination around and wanted to try it (Groovy Guava, Certainly Celery, So Saffron, and Pretty in Pink). I really like the results, and it's alway so fun to try something new!As far as the bling goes, it is hard to see in the picture, but there is glitter all around the "baby" label from "Lovely Labels". I covered what was showing of the pink in Crystal Effects and then put Dazzling Diamonds glitter on it. I think acetate itself has a kind of "bling" of it's own. The swirls were put on the acetate using white StazOn. I was a dork and used my Stamp-a-Majig to place the image and now I can't get the StazOn off of the Stamp-a-Majig sheet--duh! To hide any adhesive used, you sandwich the acetate between your main layer and it's matt. So, for example, the So Saffron layer is on the front of the acetate, the small groovy guava layer is right on the other side of the acetate. Here is a picture of the inside of the card:

I made some extras so I could keep some to use myself--people are always having babies!

I'm back!

2008-05-25T19:27:00.001-07:00

I seem to have taken a little break from my stamp blog--but I'm back! The other day I was Blog hopping and came across a new favorite, thINK spot. I love her creations! I was totally inspired by these cards. So rich and beautiful. Makes me totally want the Baroque Motifs set! I realized that I could create a similar look on a smaller scale with the Priceless set that I own, so I went to town!I love how they turned out! I'm really going to miss the "In Colors" when they retire. I've always been drawn to them and finally purchased some of the cardstock with my last order. I followed Marelle's instructions pretty closely, just tweeked it a little to fit the supplies I own.

I started with 3x3 card bases using the In Colors Purely Pomegranate, Wild Wasabi, and Blue Bayou. I topped that with some River Rock CS and created a scalloped edge with my corner rounder. I stamped the Priceless Swirl in Wild Wasabi and then used my Stamp-a-Majig to shadow stamp it using Versamark ink. Marelle used River Rock ink to do her shadow effect, but I don't have that color--the Versamark worked like a charm and I'll definitely be using this technique again! I stamped the Priceless flowers in coordinating ink colors and used my Basic Black Stampin' Write marker to put black dots in the middle of the small ones. Oh, I forgot to mention that I sponged the edges of the River Rock layer in Close to Cocoa.

I used my Crop-a-Dile to put an eyelet in the centers of the larger flowers and then I did a little "faux bling" trick that I learned on Marelle's site. I stuck a piece of paper behind the eyelet and filled it with Crystal Effects. It looks pretty cool! After they dried I stuck them on with dimensionals. I added sentiments from Short & Sweet and Holiday Blitz using Close to Cocoa ink.

I wanted to create a cute little bag to keep them in, so I made this one out of River Rock CS, Porcelain Prints DSP, Wild Wasabi ribbon, and jumbo eyelets (love those!)

"Made for a Man" Class

2008-05-24T15:00:00.000-07:00

I got the "All Holidays" stamp set today and decided that with Father's Day coming up, it was time to do a class with a more masculine feel. That kind of thing is usually hard for me, but I found an incredible card to copy. It was designed by a stamper named Lorri Heiling--you can see the original post on her blog here. It looks just like a wallet! Here is my version (very similar to hers, of course) And, before you go thinking I sewed on this, I used a technique called faux stitching. Pierce a few holes, connect with gel pen, and voila!

I'll show you the inside in a minute. I thought these would also be good for graduates or men's birthdays, so you could do the front like this instead to adapt it:

And here is the inside. You could put gift cards, money, a note, school pictures, etc. in the little pockets. Too cool!

Here is the second card that will be available at the class. I love these jumbo brads by Stampin' Up. And with my new Crop-a-Dile, they are soooo easy to put on. This card is made using the Western Sky Designer Series Paper--it has a nice masculine, western feel to it. I designed it to be a birthday card, but you could always stamp a different sentiment on it (you can choose at the class).

Here are the details:

DATE: May 30th, Friday, at 7:00 (can't make it then? Just let me know!)

COST: Men's Billfold $3.50, Birthday card $2.00 (You choose which card and how many you would like to make.

Please RSVP so that I can be sure to have enough supplies on hand. Once again, I will also offer a $5 discount on any order of $25 or more to those that participate in the class.

Now's the Time!

2008-05-09T15:09:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been tempted to become a Stampin' Up Demonstrator? Would you like to support your crafting habit for free? Now is the time! Stampin' Up is offering 20% off of their Starter Kit plus a free Hodgepodge Hardware kit (full of brads, ribbon slides, all kinds of cool little metal things!). That's $359 worth of stuff for $159. My favorite thing about the Starter Kit is that you get to choose the elements in it yourself. You pick which stamp sets you want and what colors of ink and cardstock you want. It's so individual and very nice to get products that are exactly what you want and are excited to use. If you are interested, contact me here or e-mail tfollett@70three.com .

Here is a card I made for my MIL's birthday. I am totally loving this color combo. The Bali Breeze DSP is my absolute favorite, and I finally got the Flower Fusion felt flowers which match perfectly.

Once again, I used Kraft cardstock for the base of the card. I added some Purely Pomegranate CS on top of that, then 4 rectangles of Bali Breeze DSP. I used the word window punch at the bottom and a sentiment from Fun & Fast Notes. I punched a scalloped circle of Purely Pomegranate CS, layered with a 1 3/8" circle of Old Olive Bali Breeze DSP, then a 1 1/4" circle of Kraft CS. I layered three of the Flower Fusion felt flowers and added a rhinestone brad in the middle. Ta-da! I will be sad to give it away!

Yay--an Award! Thanks!

2008-05-07T14:35:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to see that Jaime nominated me for the Arte Y Pico Award. Thanks, Jaime! I found Jaime's blog because we both have had fun submitting cards for Kristina Werner's weekly color challenge. Jaime does such cute work that I have visited her blog often and left comments, which must be how she found mine : )!

Here are the guidelines for the award:
1. You pick 5 blogs that you think deserve this award for their creativity, design, interesting material and also contribute to the blogging community.
2. Each award has to have the name of the author and also a link to his or her blog.
3. Each award winner has to show the award and put the name and the link to the blog that has given her/him the award itself.
4. Award winner and the one who has given the prize have to show the link of the Art Y Pico blog.

I actually did this just a bit ago in April--I'm going to be a cheater and re-list the ones I chose then, you'll love em'!

1. Jo at http://stampin-n-stuff.blogspot.com/. I came across Jo's blog while looking around on SCS. She is a newbie like me and everything she makes is adorable.
2.Tara at http://stamp-a-licious.blogspot.com/. I have her blog on my "visit daily" list. She makes the most wonderful things and there is always something new to see.
3. Ila at http://artfullyila.blogspot.com/ I just recently found her blog, and WOW! She has a style that is unique and truly beautiful.
4. Lauren at http://www.kennyandlauren.com/blog/ You know how there are blogs you visit where every new post leaves you saying "that is soooooo cute?". Well, here you have it.
5. Lauraly at http://justgivemestamps.typepad.com/. Once again, super talented. I've been looking at her blog for quite a while now and never fail to be inspired!

I have something to share today too! Here is a giftcard holder I made for someone at my husband's work who got married. DH said he liked it, but thought he'd be embarrassed to give it to the guy he works with because it's so girly : ). I told him just to blame it on his girly-stamping wife! I had been looking for an opportunity to try a card of this style, so it was fun to do.

Obviously, DH still needs to pick out a giftcard to put in it! The base of the card is Blush Blossom. I also used So Saffron and Certainly Celery DSP. I used the Fast & Fun Notes wedding cake stamp and colored it in with my blender pens (looooove those!). I used Crystal Effects and Dazzling Diamonds glitter on the image. I don't own the ticket corner punch (yet) so I used the 1/4 inch circle punch on the corners. It worked like a charm! I finished it off with some Groovy Guava double stitched ribbon and some faux stitching.

P.S. Don't you love that tin in the background? Target's dollar spot rocks!

Mother's Day Card

2008-05-05T17:04:00.000-07:00

I finally got to the post office this morning to mail off my moms' packages--both of them : ). I have a mother and a step-mother, which makes me a lucky daughter. So, I whipped up another Mother's Day card to send. I really like the way this one turned out. Once again, I chose Kraft cardstock as my card base because it is my favorite right now. I used Fall Flowers papers and Soft Sky ribbon. I stamped the heart from Always in Really Rust ink (on Whisper White and Really Rust cardstock. I stamped the sentiment in Old Olive, highlighting the word "heart" by stamping it on Whisper White cardstock in Really Rust ink and popping it up on dimensionals. I have seen this done somewhere else, but can't figure out where--oops! Enjoy your day!

Chipboard Class

2008-05-01T18:10:00.000-07:00

Here it is--my new class. This wonderful idea came from my talented upline Dannie who saw the idea at an SU! regional conference.

Chipboard is the special this month for SU! (You can read all about the special a few posts down). This project uses On Board Basics chipboard along with the Crew Kids Simply Scrappin' kits, which are also amazing for both scrapbooking and cardmaking.

Here is a closer shot of one of the panels so you can see more of the detail:
I wanted to connect my panels horizontally so that I can put this on a shelf or on DD's dresser. However, they can also be connected vertically to be hung on a wall. The Simply Scrappin' kit used here is Crew Kids Girl. For boys you would want to use Crew Kids Boy. Here is a picture of the ones Dannie did so that you can see what the boy kit looks like and what the vertical version looks like (Dannie gave me permission to share these with you):

Here is the class info:

DATE: Friday, May 16th

TIME: 7:00 p.m.

WHERE: My House

COST: $18 which includes everything you'll need except your photos! Due one week ahead so that I can order supplies. The Simply Scrappin Kits we will use are normally $19.95. The kits will be split between two of you (they come with 2 of everything) and you can take home the extras to use on your own projects at home.

I am also including with each class a $5 coupon valid on any order of $25 or more placed on the day of the class. Remember, also, the specials for the month: purchase $35 of product and get 25% off any chipboard products (no limit). Also, buy a cutting matt and get a cutting blade FREE!

YOU DECIDE: You can include 2 or 3 pictures (even though I only used 2 for mine). You choose the boy kit or the girl kit. You choose if you want the panels connected vertically or horizontally.

Please comment here if you would like to participate!

Super Sparkly Chipboard Card

2008-04-30T15:35:00.001-07:00

Have you ever been working on a card (or other project) and thought "this is not turning out cute" and then ended up totally loving the final result? Well, this card was exactly like that for me! I wanted to experiment using this chipboard shape. I started by picking my colors--I really love the colors of the Bali Breeze DSP, so I decided to use those. I coated the chipboard with white craft ink--I used a sponge to transfer it from the ink pad to the chipboard. Craft ink is chalkier and doesn't sink into the chipboard like classic ink would. When that was dry I sponged Pumpkin Pie ink over the white. Then I covered it in Crystal Effects. This served two purposes. It really brightened up the Pumpkin Pie ink and also allowed me to apply Dazzling Diamonds glitter. I LOVE that stuff! My two current loves are Dazzling Diamonds glitter and Kraft cardstock (which I used as the base of the card.)

I put a piece of Bali Breeze DSP behind the chipboard to make the flower shape stand out and then added a brad from the Silver HodgePodge Hardware. I added a peice of ribbon and a sentiment from Short and Sweet (using Tempting Turquoise ink). I felt like the top of the card looked pretty empty, so I used my paper peircing tool and a white gel pen to add faux stitching across the top.

I'm planning a class using chipboard that I'm really excited about. I should be posting those pictures in a couple of days so be sure to check back--it's gonna be super cute (and I can say that because the idea came from my upline, Dannie)

Last of the 3x3 Set

2008-04-28T16:10:00.001-07:00

Before I move on to chipboard projects, here is the last of the 3x3 cards that I included in the tin shown previously:
Once again, this card uses the retired Simply Scrappin' kit Friends and Flowers, along with the Sweet Celebrations stamp set (my new favorite, by the way!)

Get on Board with Chipboard!

2008-04-27T19:26:00.001-07:00

Check out the great new specials for May!

Get On Board With Chipboard:
With any $35 purchase, add as many chipboard products to your order as you would like--all at 25% off! It's a great time to stock up on any chipboard you might want to use in your cardmaking, scrapbooking, or decorating projects. Chipboard is located on pages 178-179 of the SU! catalog. Click on the link to the left for an online version.

Cutting Combo Pack:
Buy a cutting mat ($15.95) and recieve a hobby blade FREE! These are shown on page 184 of the catalog.

Here are some great projects using chipboard to inspire you. I've included the links to the wonderful blogs I found them on.

This card uses a chipboard flower, part of the On Board Accents set. Just top with some designer paper, and glitter and ta-da! http://www.verastamps.com/2008/04/13/fs62/

These hearts are included in the On Board Simon Upper set. So stunning! These hearts were inked and covered in embossing powder to make them shine. http://fatcatstamper.blogspot.com/2008/03/glitter-makes-for-happy-hearts.html
Chipboard doesn't need to be altered to be beautiful! http://kennyandlauren.com/blog/?p=212 This is an altered art journal. These are available in two sizes and are filled with paper. http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/803410?si=chipboard%20book SU! also has Chipboard clipboards and Chipboard sheets which can be cut or used to create your own albums or banners. I will continue to post projects that include chipboard throughout the week : ).

The Second 3x3 in the Set

2008-04-25T17:10:00.001-07:00

Here's the second card from the Friends & Flowers tin:
All of the elements in this card came from the Friends & Flowers Simply Scrappin kit, except for the sentiment (Short & Sweet) and the faux stitching. The kit is retired, but all of the Simply Scrappin' kits are totally awesome for scrapbooking or creating coordinating cards. Enjoy!

First Friends & Flowers 3x3

2008-04-24T15:19:00.001-07:00

Here is the first of the three cards that I put in the tin that I posted yesterday. This Simply Scrappin' kit is retired, but the layout of the cards is easily adaptable : )The base of the card is So Saffron cardstock. I layered Certainly Celery cardstock on that. I used the same cardstocks to make the medallion, using the Sweet Celebrations stamp set. I used Pumpkin Pie ink on the So Saffron layer and Certainly Celery ink on the Certainly Celery layer. I added some So Saffron brads to the corners. Everything else came with the kit!

I Am Way Too Picky!

2008-04-23T14:41:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I went over to my neighbor's house and borrowed this box back because I just had to decorate the outside of the box! It only took a few minutes but now I am totally satisfied!

Stamp Meeting Challenge

2008-04-23T11:19:00.000-07:00

My stamp group's challenge for this month is to do something with a tin BESIDES put chocolate in it. I needed to create a thank you gift for someone, so I killed two birds with one stone and made this:

I know my idea was certainly not very original, but it sure looks cute! I created six 3x3 cards (2 each of 3 designs) and made some paper shred to keep them in place. I also added some rub ons to the tin (from the Love and Happiness set). I would have loved to wrap a ribbon around the tin--maybe some pumpkin pie ribbon, but I didn't have any colors on hand that would have looked good. In hindsight, I should have put some adhesive die cut borders around it. Oh, well. I already gave it away!

I have to thank Tara at Stampalicious for the blog candy she gave away a couple of weeks ago. Here is all of the fun stuff she sent me:

As a new demo, these supplies are a total score for me! I had seen this Simply Scrappin' kit a lot on Splitcoast and totally loved it, but it is retired. I was so excited to win it! Thanks, Tara!

I used that Simply Scrappin' kit to create the cards in the tin. I'll be posting each of those throughout the week so you can see them all : )

New April Make-and-Take

2008-04-21T14:28:00.000-07:00

This is the card I had originally planned for the April Make-and-Take:

I decided to change it a little because I am doing a co-open house with a new neighbor of mine who has just become a Pampered Chef demonstrator. She will be having an ice-cream sundae bar where people can use the chopper and other Pampered Chef tools to prepare toppings. I will provide a make-and-take card. In the interest of time, we both cut way back on what we normally do at a home show.

Punches are one of my favorite products that Stampin' Up! sells, so I wanted to get those in the hands of our customers. I also just got a great new stamp set called "Sweet Celebrations" which I love. So, this is the new card keeping those two things in mind:

I think I like it even better than my first one! A bonus is that I don't have to change my kits at all except to add a small piece of So Saffron cardstock for the center flower. Fun stuff!

Supplies: Close to Cocoa, Very Vanilla, So Saffron, and Sage Shadow cardstock; So Saffron and Certainly Celery DSP; Certainly Celery and Close to Cocoa ink; Certainly Celery grosgrain ribbon; Scalloped circle punch, 1 3/8 inch circle punch, 3/4 inch circle punch

Artfully Ila Sketch Meets Kwerner Color Challenge

2008-04-16T13:50:00.000-07:00

Kristina Werner has a great color challege on her blog today--and I actually had all of the colors! They are:

Certainly Celery, So Saffron, Bashful Blue, and Close to Cocoa. I happen to love working with these colors already!

A couple of days ago I participated in a sketch challenge at Artfully Ila. I loved the sketch so much that I decided to use it again in combination with Kristina's color challenge.

I had my friend Kari in mind as I designed this card. Her birthday was on Sunday and I didn't make her a card! It's pretty silly of me to spend time almost daily stamping and creating and then forget to make something for her : P We had a great time going out to dinner at Chili's though! So, here is my Ila/Kwerner/card for Kari creation! You can't see it so much in the photo, but I used Dazzling Diamonds glitter on the frosting and flames. The cake itself is popped up on dimensionals.

Supplies: Close to Cocoa, Bashful Blue, and Whisper White cardstock; So Saffron and Certainly Celery DSP; Bashful Blue patterned paper and Chocolate Chip scalloped adhesive die cuts from Just 4 You Simply Scrappin' kit; White gel pen for faux stitching; Fun & Fast Notes stamp set; Basic Black, Close to Cocoa, Certainly Celery and So Saffron ink with blender pen, Dimensionals (the cake and the blue mat are popped up); Certainly Celery grosgrain ribbon; baubles

Sketch Challenge Card

2008-04-14T19:45:00.001-07:00

If you want to see a truly beautiful and unique stamping style, check out http://artfullyila.blogspot.com/. She is a master at coloring in images--amazing stuff. I was browsing blogs today and came across a sketch challenge on her blog that I had to try. Usually I only showcase SU! products on this blog because I really feel that they are incredible. However, because I am new to this and haven't accumulated a large stash of papers and such, I decided to break my own rule a little bit on this one. Here is the sketch she provided:And here is my card--I really enjoyed this one. Lots of fun. And with so many pregnant people around, it won't be long until I can give it away!
The card base and matting for my image are Blush Blossom and Certainly Celery SU! cardstock. The patterned papers are from a set called "Nana's Nursery" by Die Cuts With a View. The flowers are from the wedding section at Michael's. They were originally a cream color and I sponged on some Certainly Celery and Regal Rose ink (I used the same colors on the stroller). The stroller is paper peiced with some of the DCWV paper. I finished it off with some faux stitching, some baubles (they come in a little plastic bottle at the scrapbook store) and some Pretty in Pink taffeta ribbon. I love it! I think I'll keep it out on my desk for a while : )

Time Well Spent Hostess Gift

2008-04-10T14:52:00.000-07:00

I have a couple more parties coming up this month and wanted to create something new to give to one of the hostesses. I decided to make this little origami box and embellish it with flowers from the Time Well Spent stamp set (just got it--I love it!).
The hostess I have in mind wants to get a scalloped circle punch so I put one of the So Many Scallops stamps in it for her. I made the box out of So Saffron DSP. I stamped the flowers in Basic Black on Whisper White cardstock. I colored in the images using a Blender Pen with Rose Red, Tempting Turquoise, So Saffron and Old Olive ink. I used dimensionals to pop up certain elements of the image. Then I added Crystal Effects and Dazzling Diamonds glitter. I put a So Saffron brad in the middle of the smaller flower. The ribbon is Old Olive wide grosgrain.

Yay! My First Virtual Award

2008-04-08T18:09:00.000-07:00

Today has been an exciting day for me! First off, I won blog candy from Tara over at Stampalicious. What a generous give-away! I felt so lucky (and I never win anything!)

Then, my upline Dannie at http://danniesdesigns.typepad.com/ nominated me for an award. Isn't she great? Dannie's blog is what inspired me to start stamping and to become a Stampin' Up demo and I am having a ball!

Here are the guidelines for the award:

1. You pick 5 blogs that you think deserve this award for their creativity, design, interesting material and also contribute to the blogging community.

2. Each award has to have the name of the author and also a link to his or her blog.

3. Each award winner has to show the award and put the name and the link to the blog that has given her/him the award itself.

4. Award winner and the one who has given the prize have to show the link of the Art Y Pico blog.

So, I feel pretty spoiled today. Here are my pics (some of these people probably have no idea who I am, but oh well):

1. Jo at http://stampin-n-stuff.blogspot.com/. I came across Jo's blog while looking around on SCS. She is a newbie like me and everything she makes is adorable.

2.Tara at http://stamp-a-licious.blogspot.com/. I have her blog on my "visit daily" list. She makes the most wonderful things and there is always something new to see.

3. Ila at http://artfullyila.blogspot.com/ I just recently found her blog, and WOW! She has a style that is unique and truly beautiful.

4. Lauren at http://www.kennyandlauren.com/blog/ You know how there are blogs you visit where every new post leaves you saying "that is soooooo cute?". Well, here you have it.

5. Lauraly at http://justgivemestamps.typepad.com/. Once again, super talented. I've been looking at her blog for quite a while now and never fail to be inspired!

The Cutest Non-Stamp Related Thing Ever!

2008-04-07T19:32:00.001-07:00

Ok, I know this is a stamping blog, but you guys have got to see these cute, cute things!
The recipe is on http://www.marthastewart.com/ and you can find it along with a video, here. I can't wait to try making these for someone. I figured that if you're stopping by here, you are a fellow crafty person and will appreciate cute things as much as I do!

Cute Little Door Prizes

2008-04-07T10:34:00.002-07:00

I have a few parties coming up, so I whipped up some door prizes to give away. I found this cute little box template on the Stampin' Up Demo website. I used my new Time Well Spent set (I am soooooo loving this set, watercoloring is lots of fun!) to created flowers and butterflies for the boxes. I put a small incentive stamp inside each one. Once again, I wish you could see the dimensions a little better. I popped the flowers, the flower centers, and the butterfly wings up on dimensionals.
Supplies: Cardstock: Purely Pomegranate, Whisper White Stamp Set: Time Well Spent, Holiday Blitz (the Thank You) Ink: Rose Red, Tempting Turquoise, So Saffron, Old Olive, Whisper White Accessories: Certainly Celery grosgrain ribbon, Dimensionals

Mother's Day Workshop

2008-04-03T15:57:00.001-07:00

For Mother's Day this year I will be having a workshop to make these cute Hershey's Nugget tins and coordinating cards:

If it is hard to see in the photo, the card says "my Mom" and at the bottom "always on my mind-forever in my heart".

The cost of the class will be $8 for each set you make. The class will be held on Friday, May 2nd at 7:00 and money will be due April 25th (a week before the class) so that I can order enough supplies for everyone. Class size is limited, so leave me a reply if you'd like to attend!

Make and Take for April Classes

2008-04-02T18:52:00.000-07:00

I just got the Always stamp set yesterday--yay! Everytime I saw the heart stamp on something I just had to have it, and now I do! I decided to use it for the April party make-and-takes and came up with this little card:

I, of course, love the way the heart looks but I also really like the color combination. I cut out the elements to assemble 20 of these little treasures tonight. I can tell you that SU scissors are indeed very sharp! No wonder they cut through rubber like butter. I'm used to crappy scissors, so I tried to get some fuzz and adhesive off with my thumb and got two nice little slices--ouch! I learned my lesson, won't be trying that cleaning technique again!

Supplies: Cardstock: Close to Cocoa, Sage Shadow, Very Vanilla Paper: So Saffron and Certainly Celery DSP Stamp Set: Always Ink: Whisper White, Certainly Celery Accessories: Certainly Celery grosgrain ribbon, Dimensionals (to pop up the top heart)

Inspired Crayon Box--what would you put in it?

2008-04-01T15:42:00.000-07:00

I saw a box similar to this one on Splitcoast. It was made by Karrie Baker at http://www.stampgirl.typepad.com/. Hers was soooo cute, I just had to try it. I found a template at http://www.jersgirl.com/temps.html and just printed it right onto my cardstock. Oh, the possibilities! You know what my second favorite thing is about being a demo? My first is earning all this free stuff. The second thing is having an excuse to make all the cute things I see! I think I will use this as a hostess gift. I have three parties scheduled this month. I am so excited! Anyway, I think I will fill it with some samples of ribbon, punches, and hardware. What would you all put in it? I'm sure there are all kinds of cool things you could do with a box like this.
Supplies: Cardstock: Not Quite Navy, Soft Sky, Certainly Celery, So Saffron Ink: Basic Black Stamps: Priceless, Short & Sweet Accessories: Hodge Podge Hardware, Love and Happiness Rub Ons (for all of the flowers), Horizontal Slot punch, Certainly Celery grosgrain ribbon, Crystal Effects, Dazzling Diamonds glitter

Sketch Challenge SC169

2008-03-31T16:02:00.000-07:00

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/ is a great resource for any stamping fan. This week's sketch challenge really appealed to me and I wanted to give it a try. They suggest a layout for a card which gets stampers to step outside of their comfort zone and stretch their creative muscles. Here is the card I came up with:

How do you like my new watermark? I had another one before but didn't really like it and kept forgetting to add it. So, I'm going to try to remember from now on. Happy stamping!

Supplies: Paper: Boho Blend Simply Scrappin' papers, So Saffron DSP, Soft Sky, Old Olive, So Saffron, and Very Vanilla CS. Ink: So Saffron, Basic Black, Old Olive Stamps: For a Friend, Boho Backgrounds Accessories: Die Cut Stickers from Just 4 You kit, Soft Sky double stitched ribbon, Blender Pens (to color flower), Dimensionals (to pop up flower)

Which is better?

2008-03-28T12:10:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking lately of my little brother Daniel because his birthday is coming up soon--April 15th. I always am reminded of his birthday as soon as I start thinking about taxes! Anyway, he was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident nearly two years ago. He would have been 26 this year. I decided to put together a card that I can send to my parents when the day draws nearer (I don't think they check this blog, so I don't think they'll see these). I put together two different ones. Which do you prefer?

Both cards use the Porcelain Prints DSP. It seemed perfect for the "mood" of the card. Both have Certainly Celery grosgrain ribbon. The top card also has Certainly Celery CS. The flowers on the top card were inked with Wild Wasabi and Blue Bayou ink. I used Crystal Effects and Dazzling Diamonds glitter on the centers. I usually don't use non-Stampin' Up! items for this blog since it is a business tool for me, but these flowers are really cool. I read about them on someone else's blog. they are a shimmery off-white color to begin with but you can sponge ink on them easily to match any project. They came from Michael's in the wedding section. They are meant to be table confetti! They come in a mini paint can and there are tons of them--for only $5 or so!

The second card is on a Bashful Blue base. I also used Sage Shadow CS to matte the quote. I paper peirced along the scalloped edge (done with the corner rounder) and by the quote. I stamped the butterflies from my Priceless set in Certainly Celery ink and then used Crystal Effects and Dazzling Diamonds glitter on them. I popped up their wings with dimensionals.

Anyway, I can't decide which to send. Which is prettier?

Another Kwerner Color Challenge

2008-03-26T15:42:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite blogs to visit is www.kwernerdesign.com/blog She does these super cool Make a Card Monday videos each week and has just started posting a weekly color challenge too. I really liked this weeks colors and decided to play! I was really scraping the bottom of the barrel with my scraps (which were all I have left of the required colors). The size of the scraps I had available dictated the design of my card, but I totally love the way it turned out! The colors were Orchid Opulence, Rose Red, Pumpkin Pie, Black, and White. I had all of the colors except Orchid Opulence, so I chose Lavendar Lace as a substitute.

I've never done faux stitching before, so I enjoyed the way that turned out. I popped the flowers up on Dimensionals at varying heights, which is hard to tell in the photo.

Supplies: Paper: Bali Breeze DSP, Lavendar Lace, Pumpkin Pie, and Rose Red CS Ink:Black Stamp Sets: Friendship Blooms, Short & Sweet Other: Crystal Effects, Dazzling Diamonds glitter, Paper piercing tool, White gel pen

3x3 Set with Origami Box

2008-03-24T07:55:00.000-07:00

Here is the whole set of 3x3 cards with it's matching origami box. These boxes are super easy. You can find a tutorial for them here. I plan on giving this as a hostess thank you gift. Speaking of hostess gifts, if you would like to host a show and earn free merchandise you can e-mail me at tfollett@70three.com. From now through the month of April, hostesses recieve an extra $25 worth of free product for holding a qualifying show. Along with my $5 hostess gift certificate, that is an EXTRA $30 in free stuff on top of the usual benefits (which also include free stuff!). I am also glad to place personal orders at any time. The catalog link is to the left!

For the box I used Certainly Celery and So Saffron patterned DSP. The wide grosgrain ribbon came from the Just 4 You Simply Scrappin' Kit (which is a hostess-only kit). The stamp is from the Lovely Labels set.

The Last 3x3 in the Set

2008-03-21T16:35:00.000-07:00

Here's the last 3x3 I created for the So Saffron/Certainly Celery set. For this card, I used So Saffron patterned DSP and cardstock, Certainly Celery cardstock, the coordinating inks, Basic Black ink, and my Blender Pens to fill in the flower images. I used the 1/2 inch circle punch to create the circled the flowers "peek" through. I popped my final layer up on Dimensionals. I made two of each of my 3x3 card designs and put them in an origami box which I will post on Monday! Have a great Easter holiday!

Another 3x3

2008-03-20T14:26:00.000-07:00

Back to my 3x3's. This is the second in the set.
I used Certainly Celery patterned DSP, So Saffron cardstock, Whisper White cardstock, the Priceless stamp set, a So Saffron brad, and my circle and scalloped circle punches.

A Divergence From the Plan

2008-03-19T18:34:00.001-07:00

My plan was to post another 3x3 card today, but I stopped by Kwerner Design and saw a color challenge that I just couldn't pass up. I had to change the colors up a bit because I am a new SU demo and don't have every color on hand, but I think this goes perfectly. I used Certainly Celery, Pretty in Pink, Barely Banana, and Apricot Appeal (and the coordinating inks, minus the Barely Banana). I used the gift from the Holiday Blitz set and the sentiment from the Short and Sweet set. I tied on some Certainly Celery grosgrain ribbon and added some dots of Crystal Effects and Dazzling Diamonds glitter along the scalloped edge.

So Saffron/Certainly Celery 3x3 cards

2008-03-18T16:00:00.000-07:00

These colors have really been appealing to me lately, so I ordered some of SU's patterned DSP in those two colors along with some ribbon and ink to match. I put together a little gift set of 3x3 cards and put them in an origami box. I'll post one a day until you've seen the whole set! I'll start with my favorite:
I was thinking that this is really the way to go for people who are new to Stampin' Up and don't know where to start. If you get a couple of packs of this patterned DSP (it comes in all kinds of gorgeous colors) with the matching inkpads and a matching ribbon, you can do all kinds of things! Another good option is the Simply Scrappin' kits which give you coordinating Designer Series Paper, Cardstock, and adhesive die cuts. Fun stuff! See you tomorrow!

Sweet Springtime Card

2008-03-17T14:15:00.000-07:00

I love, love, love the Just 4 You hostess set. It is so adorable and the colors are perfect for spring. Today I played around with it again. This card was inspired by one my upline posted a while back. You can see hers here. I purposefully didn't have hers in front of me when I made mine so that I could give it my own twist. I added some Dazzling Diamonds glitter on the flower too. I love sparkles. Can't wait to use this card sometime!

Supplies: Paper: Certainly Celery and So Saffron Patterned DS and cardstock, Stamps: So Many Scallops, Little Flowers Ribbon: Certainly Celery grosgrain, So Saffron ribbon from Just 4 You hostess set Adhesive Die Cuts: The word "sweet" is an adhesive die cut from the Just 4 You hostess set.

CD Case Shaker Box Invitation

2008-03-15T17:36:00.001-07:00

I was trying to explain this to someone the other day and decided it would be easier (and fun) just to make one to post. This is a CD case invitation--I got the idea a few years ago from http://www.thestampingstudio.com/. I have done these for a couple of my kids' birthdays, and they're a bit of work but they're so cute! I thought the Just 4 You Simply Scrappin' Kit would make adorable baby shower invitations, so that's what I tried this time.

It is made using a standard size cd jewel case. I just buy mine at Target or Walmart. The hub has to be snapped out of the case (gently!). I decorated mine mostly with the stickers that came in the SS Kit. I also used the "Happy New Baby" stamp from the For a Friend set and colored it in with blender pens. I popped some of them up on dimensionals. A couple of them (the white circle with the green flower and the green circle with the butterfly) a mounted on paper and cut them out so they wouldn't be sticky. That way they float around in the box as you move it. I also added some mini diaper pins that I got a long time ago at a scrapbook store (so I couldn't tell you the brand name).

The most complicated part to explain is how to close the case up because it will have a hole down the side near the hinge (from removing the piece of plastic with the hub on it). I solved this problem by folding a small square tube of thin cardboard (I used the cardboard that comes in the back of SU's paper packs). I secured this inside the case to close up the hole. I then closed the case up and secured the edges with some clear tape. Next I added another piece of DSP along the "spine" of the case to hide the ugly stuff and tied a piece of ribbon around it. Ta-da!

Room for Improvement

2008-03-13T12:54:00.000-07:00

On Friday I am having a stamp-a-stack using the Boho Blend Simply Scrappin' Kit. It was fun designing the 10 cards and I really like the way they turned out--except for these two:I just couldn't bring myself to be happy with these. Last night I was cutting out all the elements of the cards and putting them into kits and decided that I just couldn't leave these alone. I messed with them for a bit and came up with this instead:
They are actually the same cards with a few additions (and some cutting--I'm lucky the adhesive didn't tear the cardstock). Finally, I can be happy with these. I guess there's always room for improvement!

Notebook and Pen Gift Set

2008-03-12T10:49:00.000-07:00

I just got back from a trip to St. Louis and picked up this notebook from the dollar section at Michael's. We have Michael's here too, but I hardly ever get there. Our Robert's is much closer. Anyway, I just couldn't wait to alter this. I covered it with Porcelain Prints DSP and used Soft Sky double stitched ribbon, some HodgePodge Hardware from the new Occasions mini catalog, and my Big Flowers stamps to fancy it up a bit. The scalloped edge on my paper was done using a corner-rounding punch with the guard removed. I love that technique. The pen is an R.S.V.P. pen by Pentel. They are the best kind to use for decorating because the hole on the end (when you remove the end piece) is large enough to easily slide in a rolled piece of coordinating paper. I think this may become my grocery list notebook--then I won't always be running around trying to find something to write on!

Lots of new things to share

2008-02-28T15:43:00.000-08:00

One of my rewards for hosting my show in February was a great Simply Scrappin' kit called Just 4 You. It's a level three hostess gift (so you could earn one too by hosting a show). I think it is definitely the cutest of the Simply Scrappin' kits. Naturally, I wanted to play with it, so here are my creations. These first cards I made for my friend Christina at http://www.momtomy5.blogspot.com/. She is doing a little blog give away and asked me to whip her up some cards. The baby onesies are my favorite. This idea came from http://laurenm.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/ . Check out that whole blog--great ideas there!

Other than the Just 4 You Simply Scrappin' kit, I used the Scalloped Circle punch, the 1 3/8 inch circle punch, Short and Sweet Stamp set, Hodge Podge Hardware from the Occasions Mini Catalog (available March 1st), Soft Sky double stitched ribbon, Old Olive and Close to Cocoa inks, and a rub-on (the "thinking of you") from the Love & Happiness Sale-a-Bration set (only available until March 17th.

My next little project is a matchbox that holds Hershey's Nuggets. I copied this off of one that my upline sent me. So cute!

This one uses the same Simply Scrappin' kit. I added some Soft Sky double stitched ribbon. I used the bunny stamp from the Holiday Blitz set. I stamped it in Versamark ink (it's a clear, sticky ink) and dusted the images with Stamping Pastels.

And finally, I made these cards to swap at my upline's next meeting--in California! Wish I was going, but I'm just mailing them there. These were inspired by a card I saw on www.kwernerdesign.com/blog She has an awesome style and every Monday she posts a "Make a Card Monday" video tutorial. These use the same Simply Scrappin' kit, the 1 3/8 circle punch, Old Olive grosgrain ribbon, Soft Sky double stitched ribbon, Pumpkin Pie ink, and the Big Flowers and Short and Sweet stamp sets. There are dimensionals behind the top layer, but it's hard to tell in these photos.

Stamp-a-Stack preview

2008-02-25T20:06:00.000-08:00

I've started designing the cards for the March Stamp-a-Stack. Here are the first four--I hope you like them! I will be sending out a reminder e-mail to those that expressed an interest in the workshop so that I can get a final count. We will be using the Boho Blends Simply Scrappin' kits which will be split equally between two customers. You get to take the left-overs home to use on your own projects! Money will be due by March 1st so that I can order supplies.
You may also be interested to know that Sale-a-Bration ends March 17 (this is the promotion where you are able to choose a free stamp set from the Sale-a-Bration catalog with each $50 order). However, there is a great promotion for hostesses that runs March 18th-April 30th. Yay! For every qualifying homeshow ($350 or more) the hostess is rewarded with an EXTRA $25 in free merchandise. That's a great deal! In a couple of weeks or so I'll be calling those who expressed interest in hosting an April show to set up a date so that you can take advantage of this great promotion.

Thank you and March Workshop

2008-02-16T15:44:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who helped me get my business off to a good start. With the added supplies I have earned I will be able to teach new and exciting techniques to all of you in the future! Just a reminder that hosting a party between now and March 17th can earn you extra benefits because of Sale-a-Bration.

I will be hosting a Stamp-a-Stack workshop March 14th at 7:00 p.m. The fee is $15. In return, you will get all of the supplies and directions to stamp and assemble 10 multi occasion cards (6 regular size cards, 4 3x3 cards) We will be using the Boho Blends Simply Scrappin kit found on page 174 of the catalog (link is available to the left of this post). Whatever is left of the kits will be yours to keep and use on your own projects at home. If you're interested in signing up, give me a call or leave a comment! Thank you!

Project #8: Make and Take for Feb 16

2008-02-12T13:27:00.003-08:00

Here's the cute little 3x3 card we'll be making on Saturday!

Project #7: Priceless Scrapbook Page

2008-02-12T13:18:00.000-08:00

I have never used stamps to scrapbook before--I have recently gone digital in that arena. I wanted to try it, though. I pulled out my "Priceless" stamp set and went to town. It was fun! I was so excited that one of the rub-ons in my new set fit perfectly on the scalloped circle I put at the bottom of the photo.

Supplies: Cardstock: Whisper White Paper: Bali Breeze Ribbon: Pumpkin Pie Striped Grosgrain Stamp Set: Priceless Ink: Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Tempting Turquoise Punches: Scalloped Circle, 1 3/8" Circle Rub-on Set: Love and Happiness

Project #6: Versatile Rub-ons

2008-02-09T17:53:00.000-08:00

One of Stampin' Up's newer products is rub-ons. These are the best. You can use them on your stamping projects as well as on things that aren't stampable. There are several sets available in the catalog. I got this set for free when I placed an order last week because Stampin' Up is having their Sale-A-Bration right now. You can pick a free item from the Sale-a-Bration catalog for every $50 you spend. There are several stamp sets as well as this rub on set (which included four sheets which are each a different color). Check out the Sale-a-Bration catalog here.
I've had these hearts for a couple of years and pull them out every February. It occured to me yesterday that they would be even more fabulous if I dressed them up a bit. I love the results!

Project #5: Peek-a-Boo Box

2008-02-09T17:34:00.001-08:00

This is an awesome idea I got from my upline Dannie. You can see her version here and download the pattern (which she got from Brenda Quintana over at splitcoaststampers.com) This is a fun way to give someone a little gift. I'll be giving away a couple of these at my party next Saturday.
One thing you cannot tell from looking at the picture is that there is a piece of acetate covering the window (to keep the candy or gift inside!). I just used a piece of an overhead transparency.

Supplies: Cardstock: Purely Pomegranate, Regal Rose, Close to Cocoa, Wild Wasabi Ink: Close to Cocoa, Wild Wasabi, Purely Pomegranate Stamp Sets: Priceless, Boho Backgrounds Punches: Scallop Circle, 1 3/8" circle, 1" Circle

Let's start at the very beginning

2008-02-06T12:38:00.000-08:00

OK, so I'm a little obsessed right now. Anyone that knows me well knows that I get pretty excited about whatever my new passion is. When I was a kid I went through obsessions with Super Man, "Fame" (the TV show), the Monkees, making headbands out of ribbon (that dates me, doesn't it?). As an adult it's been paper scrapbooking, digital scrapbooking, and now stamping. I still dabble in all things crafty. I just love it for some reason.

So, as I start up my (hopefully) stamping business, I wanted to offer this blog as a source of ideas and inspiration for anyone else who enjoys this stuff too!

Yesterday I got my Starter Kit, which was awesome. I played all evening long and had a blast. I went ahead and put those things on here for you to see. I wish I had everything that I'd like to own now so that I could show you even cooler things, but as a newbie to this, you'll just see what I can do with my limited stash of supplies and hopefully that will grow!

I am planning on holding a party here at my home soon. I'll let you all know. I will have prizes, treats, and a cute take-home project which I will post as soon as my ribbon comes.

Febuary 1st-March 17th is a great time to get into this stamping hobby. Stampin' Up is having it's annual Sale-A-Bration. That means great perks for everyone.

For Customers: For every $50 you spend, you can select a free item from the Sale-A-Bration catalog

For Hostesses: You can choose a free item from the Sale-A-Bration catalog when your party totals $300 or more. That's in addition to your regular hostess benefits.

New Demonstrators: If you start up during Sale-a-Bration, you get to choose any stamp set from the regular catalog free! You also get to take 20% off of your Starter Kit. The kit is awesome. I ended up with 6 stamp sets (of my choosing--from varying price ranges), three packs of card stock, scissors, a Versamark pad, 5 ink pads, and a bunch of other stuff. It's a steal.

You can download the Sale-a-bration mini-catalog here if you'd like to see!

Anyway, I hope you enjoy!

Project #4: Butterfly card

2008-02-06T11:38:00.000-08:00

I think this is currently my favorite color combination. I was never a big fan of orange, but I love it with these other colors. To give the wings of the butterly a three-dimensional look, I stamped it twice. I stamped it on the card itself first. Then I stamped it on another piece of cardstock and cut it out (except for the feelers, they're too tiny!) I folded the wings up slightly. I attached the middle of the butterfly with a glue dot and raised the wings with Stampin' Dimensionals (sticky foam dots).

Supplies: Cardstock: Old Olive Paper: Bali Breeze Stamp Set: Priceless Ink: Pumpkin Pie, Tempting Turquoise Brads: Rich Regals

Project #3: Acetate Candy Box

2008-02-06T11:22:00.000-08:00

I am giving these to my kids teachers for Valentine's Day this year. I found this great idea here, and she was inspired by someone else who posted a tutorial here. This is an easy, fun gift to make and could be adapted for any holiday or occasion. I think they would make fabulous neighbor gifts next Christmas. I created the box with an overhead transparency. I cut the transparency in half to give me an 8 1/2 x 5 1/2 piece. I scored it every 1 1/2 inches 4 times and then left a little flap for glueing the tube shut (with glue dots). The tutorial link above will show you how to create the top and bottom of the box.
Supplies: Paper: Bali Breeze Stampset: Lovely Labels Ink: Regal Rose

Project #2: Baby Onesie Card

2008-02-06T11:07:00.000-08:00

I loved this cute card that I found here. I just had to try it. I cut mine free hand, but a 1 3/8 inch circle punch would be perfect for cutting the neck-hole (just insert the top of the card half way into the punch and go for it!). Mine is coming tomorrow! I can't wait because it would perfectly cut out a lot of the stamped images I will be using, like the "baby" circle below. I wanted to embelish the legs and arms somehow, so I used the coordinating color of ink and only inked the very edge of a Boho Background stamp. Then I added a rub-on (totally love these) to the leg. I think it would also be cute to tie some 1/4 inch grosgrain ribbon around the legs and arms, but I just ordered mine this morning (along with a few other things!). You can't see it in the pictures, but I put Stampin' Dimensionals (sticky foam dots) behind the "Baby" stamp to lift it from the scalloped circle. These stamps are amazing. My friend Kari was suprised when I told her the "baby" circle was a stamped image!
Supplies: Cardstock: Regal Rose, Whisper White Stamp Set: Boho Backgrounds, Lovely Labels Ink: Regal Rose Rub on Set: Love & Happiness Punch: Scalloped Circle

Project #1: Criss-Cross Card

2008-02-06T10:48:00.000-08:00

I could hardly wait to make this card when I saw it here. The tutorial can be found here on Splitcoaststampers (which is a great website for stampers). So cute! So many possibilities! Notice the butterfly on the tab. It's a rub on from the Love & Happiness set. I thought this would be cute with a gift card attached to the card inside.

Materials used: Paper: Bali Breeze Cardstock: Always Artichoke, Taken with Teal, Whisper White Ink: Old Olive Stamp Set: Priceless Rub On Set: Love & Happiness

Yay! Time to Play

2008-02-06T07:22:00.001-08:00

My starter kit from Stampin' Up arrived yesterday! I had hours of fun with it last night and can't wait to show you what I've made. As soon as I get this cute, squirmy preschooler off to class this morning I will start posting (and tell you about the sweeeet deals for February and March). See ya!