Got Stamps, Ink?

Easter Project

2010-04-19T15:41:00.008-05:00

OK...I'm going to post a project that I know is a little past due but I'm trying out the feed and want to post this with instructions. So...pardon the fact that it's an Easter project ~ You can definitely, easily substitute paper and stamps to create this project for any occasion.

This is a project we made last month in Stamp Club (check out my class schedule if you want to come to one of these monthly clubs ~ there are 4 to choose from during the 2nd week of every month!). It's a little box project for Easter but could easily be adapted to any occasion. First...the photos:

I got this project idea from another demonstrator named Marlene ~ I did have to figure out how to make the box, though!! So...now I'll share with you the supplies needed and step-by-step directions.

Supplies (Remember, if you don't have everything you need, you can click on "Shop Now" at the top of this blog and order everything you need!):
Stamps: Chocolate Bunny, Well Scripted, Vintage Vogue (all in the Occasions Mini, which is only available until the end of April!)
Ink: Chocolate Chip ~ both Classic and Craft, Pumpkin Pie, Pretty in Pink
Paper: Certainly Celery, Chocolate Chip, Close to Cocoa, Very Vanilla, Shades of Spring Designer Series Paper (also in the Occasions Mini)
Accessories: Chocolate Chip 1/4" Epoxy Brads (Occasions Mini), Pretty in Pink Taffeta ribbon, Clear Embossing Powder, Chocolate Chip 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain ribbon, 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo Brads (Chocolate Chip), Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots
Tools: Heat Tool, Paper Piercer & Mat, Big Shot, Stampin' Up! Scallop Square Bigz Clear Die

Box Directions:
Step 1: Cut a piece of Certainly Celery card stock 9-1/2" X 7"
Step 2: Score that piece of Certainly Celery starting with the 9-1/2" side...score at 4" and 5-1/2", then turn it to the 7" side and score at 1-1/2" and 5-1/2". Fold all score lines.
Step 3: Next you'll cut the 4 scored lines as shown in the following photo:

Step 4: You'll then be able to fold into a box shape, gluing the sides together with a strong adhesive.
Step 5: Cut 2 scallop squares out of Certainly Celery card stock using the Big Shot and the Scallop Square Bigz Clear Die. Glue them to the front and back of the box.
Step 6: Attach 11" of Chocolate Chip 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain ribbon to the box using a small hole punch to punch holes in the Certainly Celery sides (see photo above for placement); then, holding the ribbon in place, push one of the Chocolate Chip 5/8" Neutral Jumbo Brads through the hole and the ribbon...fold legs open to secure.

For the front:
Step 1: Cut a piece of Chocolate Chip card stock 3-3/4" X 3-3/4" square,
Step 2: Cut a piece of the Shades of Spring Designer Series Paper (use a piece with just Certainly Celery so you can see the Happy Easter stamp...you could substitute one of the bolder patterns, but you would probably have to make some kind of tag or extra piece of paper to stamp "happy Easter" on).
Step 3: Stamp "happy Easter" from Well Scripted stamp set onto the DSP with Chocolate Chip Classic ink.
Step 4: Stamp "Chocolate Bunny" onto Close to Cocoa card stock with the Chocolate Chip Craft ink. Then emboss using Clear Embossing Powder and the Heat Tool. Cut the bunny out.
Step 5: Stamp the flowers from Vintage Vogue onto Very Vanilla card stock with Pumpkin Pie and Pretty in Pink inks. Cut out and attach together using the Chocolate Chip 1/4" Epoxy Brads.
Step 6: Glue DSP to Chocolate Chip. Glue bunny onto DSP leaving room for flowers at the bottom. Attach the flowers using Dimensionals. Cut a piece of Pretty in Pink Taffeta ribbon and tie into a bow. Attach the bow with a Mini Glue Dot.
Step 7: Attach the entire decorated square to one side of the box.

Extra Tips:
* Tip: Did you know that you can make any color embossing using a colored Craft ink with Clear Embossing Powder!?!
* Tip: You make the petals of the flowers curl by using your Bone Folder to "flip" the petals of the flower.

You're finished!! Enjoy...

Thanks for stopping in!

New Start...

2010-04-19T15:07:00.003-05:00

Hi, Everyone! I know...I'm a terrible blogger...but life just got away from me the past 6 months. I really admire these ladies who have blogs where they post fabulous projects every day. It is definitely something that takes time and you have to really want to do it. I don't mind doing it...it's just been that I've had to spend my time elsewhere and haven't been able to focus on this. I've been very busy with my business, my family, and other commitments but I'm ready to get started again. In January, Stampin' Up! announced that they would be starting a blog option on our website for us...that's all great and I even started posting there ~ BUT...there are so many things I cannot do on it! Yet I can post entries here, then have them feed to that blog so I'm going to see how that goes. I can tell you I will NOT be posting every day. Hopefully once a week, but I really want to offer my customers the option of using my blog (whether here or on my website) to make the projects I offer in classes on their own. I will be listing all supplies used, plus step-by-step instructions. If you don't have all the supplies you need, you can substitute or place an order on my website for the items you need. All posts in the future will be written with my customers in mind...Sooo...here goes, the Grand Re-opening of this Blog!! I will be on the Stampin' Up! Incentive Trip next week and I will have to figure out how to make this feed into my website so it may be a couple of weeks before I get posts going. See you again soon...

Sorry...it's been a few weeks!

2009-10-26T21:09:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been away...I just really needed some time this month. There's just been a lot going on...workshops, classes, clubs, soccer practices & games, Fall break (which included a trip away for a few days!), funeral, ER visit with my son, Bible Study, and family stuff (which includes a lot of kids' activities and my parents and in-laws!). Anyway, I thought I would check in and let you know all is well and I'm trying to pick myself up and get a hold of things! I'm planning on doing better, but I know the next few months will be busy for me! I'll post as often as I can.

I hope all is going well for all of you...I know this is a busy time of year for you, too!

See you again soon...

ANNOUNCING...

2009-09-30T19:45:00.004-05:00

The new Stampin' Up! Clearance Rack...featuring Retired Product at drastically reduced prices!!

Overview:

Stampin' Up! is launching a new section of the online store called the Clearance Rack. The purpose of the Clearance Rack is to clear out the inventory of surplus items that have been retired. Many of these retired items will be offered at a substantially reduced price.

Details:

The clearance rack is not a promotion. It will launch September 29, 2009 but does not have a set end date.
All products in the Clearance Rack section are retired, discontinued items. No current products will be sold in the Clearance Rack.
Clearance Rack items are only available while supplies last. Items will be removed and new items will be posted depending on inventory levels. There is no set time for availability.
Clearance Rack items will be listed and pictured only in my online store (click here, then click on the Shop Now button in the top right corner). No list or flyer will be posted by me.
All sales of Clearance Rack items are final. No returns or exchanges will be accepted, except in the case of defective product.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Why does the order have to be placed online?
A: Because the products are only available while supplies last, promoting and taking orders for these items in a workshop setting can result in problems for me and you in figuring workshop totals, hostess benefits, and actual delivery of the product. It is very possible that when you place an order for one of these items in a workshop, that item will be sold out before I have the opportunity to place the order.

Q: Is the Clearance Rack a promotion?
A: The Clearance Rack is not a promotion and has no end date. The intent is for the Clearance Rack to be a permanent part of my online store (click here, then click on the Shop Now button in the top right corner).

Q: How often will the Clearance Rack be updated with new items?
A: There is no set schedule. Clearance Rack items will be posted and removed based on inventory levels. Please check back regularly through my DBWS (click here, then click on the Shop Now button in the top right corner) for new postings.

Q: If you run out of a certain item, will you restock your inventory and post it for sale again?
A: No. Clearance Rack items are retired, discontinued items and are only available while supplies last.

Q: Where can I see a list of available Clearance Rack items?
A: Because items will be posted and removed based on inventory levels, a list of Clearance Rack items will not be posted by me. To see the available items, simply visit my online store (click here, then click on the Shop Now button in the top right corner).

Please let me know if you have any questions!!

Final card from Christmas Stamp-a-Stack

2009-09-29T05:00:00.001-05:00

This is the final card that we made this last Saturday for the Christmas Card Stamp-a-Stack. You can't see it in the photo, but we used the new Shimmer Paint ~ I pre-mixed it with alcohol, put it in a mister, and we sprayed the Very Vanilla Top Note Die card stock to add a shimmery effect. Really pretty in person...I just wish a camera could capture it! We stamped off Sahara Sand ink on the snowflakes to create the background in different colors. We also used the Patterned Pines Level 1 Hostess set found in the Holiday Mini ~ contact me today so you can get this set FREE!!

Enjoy!!

Supplies:
Stamps: Patterned Pines, Four the Holidays
Paper: Handsome Hunter, Bravo Burgundy, Very Vanilla, Sahara Sand
Ink: Handsome Hunter, Bravo Burgundy, Sahara Sand
Accessories: 5/8" Bravo Burgundy Grosgrain ribbon, Champagne Shimmer Paint
Tools: Big Shot, Top Note Die, Paisley Background Texturz Plate

Layer, Emboss, and Embellish

2009-09-28T05:00:00.003-05:00

This card has lots of layers and lots of extras but I love how the hardware is used and how well the colors work together to create a non-traditional Christmas card. This is the 3rd card we did at the Christmas card Stamp-a-Stack I held on Saturday. Probably my favorite part of this card is how the Clear Rhinestone brad fits right into the center of the Jumbo Grommet...what a great look for the center of the biggest snowflake image from the set Serene Snowflakes out of the Holiday Mini. One thing I didi change for my customers kits is I recommended they use Bordering Blue for the smaller snowflake images for the background done on the Bordering Blue card stock...the Versamark I used just didn't show up enough for my taste. Anytime you use tone-on-tone ink (meaning you use the same ink color on the same color card stock), you get such a great look for backgrounds. And, please ignore the crooked words on the embossing...sometimes life just isn't too straight! ;D

Hope you like it! See you tomorrow...

Supplies:
Stamps: Serene Snowflakes, Many Merry Messages
Paper: Kraft, Bordering Blue, Whisper White, Brushed Silver, Bella Bleu DSP
Ink: Whisper White Craft, Versamark
Accessories: Whisper White Organza ribbon, Kraft Taffeta ribbon, Designer Hardware ~ Basic Jumbo Grommets (Whisper White), Clear Rhinestone brads, White Embossing Powder, Silver Embossing Powder
Tools: Scallop Edge punch, Paper Piercer, Heat Tool

Elegant Christmas Card

2009-09-27T05:00:00.002-05:00

This Christmas card ended up so elegant! This is the 2nd Christmas card from the Stamp-a-Stack class I had. It went together so quick...the hardest part was cutting the ornament out after it was stamped and embossed. The one Very Vanilla layer has been embossed using the new Petals-a-Plenty embossing folder that's found in the Holiday Mini. I love this embossing folder...it embosses leaving such a great impression! The layers were just glued together and the ornament was attached on top using Stampin' Dimensionals to give it some depth. To attach the Gold Cord, I attached the ends of it to the Stampin' Dimensional before attaching the ornament to the top Very Vanilla layer. Let me know if you have any questions on this card!

Thanks for stopping by...

Supplies:
Stamps: Tree Trimmings
Paper: Very Vanilla, Brushed Gold, Real Red
Ink: Versamark
Accessories: Gold Embossing powder, Stampin' Dimensionals, 1/4" Real Red Grosgrain ribbon, Gold Elastic Cord
Tools: Big Shot, Petals-a-Plenty Textured Impressions Folder

Christmas Card from Stamp-a-Stack

2009-09-26T22:09:00.004-05:00

Hi, Everyone!

I had my first Christmas Card Stamp-a-Stack today. I usually end up offering 3 or 4 big Christmas card classes in the fall ~ gives everyone the opportunity to get all of their Christmas cards made. Anyway, here is the first of the four cards that we made:

Usually cards for my Christmas Stamp-a-Stacks are a little more involved...multi-step, extra embellishments and layers. This card was a remake of one I had seen on Splitcoaststampers. I had to update it to where it's using all current product as the sample I saw was from last year. No special techqnies were used ~ it's pretty much direct-to-paper stamping. A few tricks on this card...on the French words stamp En Francais, I used a piece of scrap paper to cover the right hand side of the Very Vanilla and then inked up just the upper right hand corner of the stamp and pressed it down on the left hand side of the Very Vanilla...just puts the words on the left hand side of the "postcard." Then on the Chocolate Chip Designer Series Paper that's layered behind the deer ~ I had to sponge Very Vanilla Craft ink on it to color the white to make it match the rest of the card. To get the line down the center, I centered the Very Vanilla in my paper cutter and used a Chocolate Chip marker down the cutting "alley" to draw the line in. The postmark and snowflake were stamped-off in Sahara Sand to make them faint. To finish I just used sponges with Close to Cocoa and Chocolate Chip to age the Very Vanilla.

Hope you like it! Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks for stopping by...

Supplies:
Stamps: Winter Post, En Francais, Elegant Thank You
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Real Red, Very Vanilla, Chocolate Chip DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Close to Cocoa, Sahara Sand
Accessories: Sleigh Bells ribbon (Holiday Mini), Chocolate Chip marker, Old Olive marker, Vintage brads (antique brass), Stampin' Dimensionals
Tools: 1-3/8" Square punch, Cutter Kit (to distress edges), Bone Folder (to curl corner)

More Holiday Mini samples...

2009-09-20T05:00:00.000-05:00

Here are some more Holiday Mini swaps that I received...Enjoy!

by Tiffany Cline

by Joey Pogorel

by Staci Wood

by Suzanna Hake

by Cherri Gustafson

Have I lost my marbles?!?

2009-09-19T05:00:00.003-05:00

Here is a Christmas card I did for a swap. We had to do either a Fall or a Christmas card using a fun technique. I chose the Rolling Marble Technique. This is a technique I've seen a few times but have never tried. I had heard it was easy and boy, was it ever! I knocked out 21 swaps in no time...

This card uses the set Delighful Decorations along with Four the Holidays, both out of the Holiday Mini. To do the Rolling Marble technique, you need re-inkers that match your choice of card stock. Put a few drops of re-inker in a container with a lid (I used our Supply Boxes...what our stamp sets come in). Use a little bit of Dotto adhesive in the lid, stick your cardstock to the lid, close the lid tightly, swirl the marbles (I used 4 smooth marbles) around on the bottom through the ink real good, turn the container upside down and swirl the marbles around on your paper. Use a different container for each color of ink. Add just a touch of the new Real Red Polka-Dot ribbon found in the IB&C to finish off. Easy peasy!!

Tip: Use a Mini Glue Dot behind a knotted piece of ribbon for a quick attachment.

Let me know if you have any questions! And be sure to be on the lookout ~ you will see this card in an upcoming class!

Have a great day...

Supplies:
Stamps: Delightful Decorations, Four the Holidays
Paper: Whisper White, Real Red, Garden Green
Ink: Real Red, Garden Green
Accessories: Real Red 1/4" Polka-Dot Grosgrain ribbon, Stampin' Dimensions, Mini Glue Dots
Tools: Ornament punch

Monthly Class ~ Project #1

2009-09-18T18:46:00.005-05:00

Here is the card we did for my Monthly Class this month. It's using a new set out of the mini called Autumn Splendor. You'll notice the leaf image is embossed in Chocolate Chip...What?! But we don't have Chocolate Chip embossing powder!! But...there is a trick ~ when you use our Clear Embossing Powder and any of our Craft inks, you can make embossing in any of our colors!!! Woo Hoo!! I hope I just opened some doors for some of you out there. This one ought to keep you busy trying new colors for the next week or so. ;D The Autumn Meadows DSP is also used on this project, along with Twill Tape and Linen Thread.

Tip: To distress cardstock use our Cutter Kit distressing tool along the edges and a Bone Folder on the corners...by pulling the cardstock between the Bone Folder and your thumb from the front and the back, the paper will eventually start to separate and pull apart while also curling.

Hope you like it!!

Thanks for stopping by...

Supplies:
Stamps: Autumn Splendor, Grateful Greetings
Paper: Autumn Meadows DSP, Really Rust, Chocolate Chip, Naturals Ivory
Ink: Chocolate Chip Craft
Accessories: Twill Tape, Clear Embossing Powder, Linen Thread, Stampin' Dimensionals
Tools: Scallop Oval punch, Large Oval punch, Cutter Kit (for distressing), Bone Folder (for distressing)

A few more Convention Swaps...

2009-09-15T19:44:00.003-05:00

Well, I just finished my clubs this week for this month so I'll have to get some pictures taken so I can share the projects we did this month. I also just finished a swap that I do every month...this month's theme was either a Christmas card or a Fall card using a fun technique ~ I did the Rolling Marble Technique. Again, I just need to get downstairs and take some pictures. So be sure to visit this week as I know I'll be sharing these projects!

In the meantime...here are some more Convention swaps...

Have a great day!

by Vicki Lauer

by Laura Colburn

by LeAnn Anderson

by Brenda Kamin

by Betty Travis

More Convention Swaps...

2009-09-14T05:00:00.004-05:00

I'm finally starting to run out of Convention Swaps to share...but here are 5 more!! Enjoy...

Thanks for stopping by...

by LeeLa Smith

by Sharon Carr

by Shari Caspers

(Sorry...no name on this one!)

by Ann Cardile

Regionals...

2009-09-13T19:52:00.004-05:00

was wonderful!! Lots of great ideas...full of information and great samples. Wish you all could've been there! If you can't make it to Convention, I really feel like you can get tons of information, ideas, swapping, etc at Regionals...you need to try to go!! If I couldn't go to Convention, I would definitely go to a Regional...it was well worth the money.

To my customers...get ready!! I'm full of ideas now!! (as if I wasn't before ;D)

Anyway...here are some more of my swaps from Convention...

by Tracy Odom

by Cheryl Elenbaas

by Catherine Harwood

by Lois Folla

On my way...

2009-09-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

to Cincinnati to Regionals!! It's about a 5 hour drive and several of my downline wanted to go so we decided we'd make it a road trip! Check back Sunday ~ I'll fill you in on how great it was!!

See you then...

More Convention Swaps...

2009-09-10T05:00:00.000-05:00

Enjoy!

by April Stevenson

by Andrea Bendis-Munday

by Patsy Waggoner

by Cindy Russell

by Tammi Oakley

Still sharing...

2009-09-09T05:00:00.000-05:00

Thanks for stopping by. Please let me know if you have any questions about any of these cards!

by Keri Young

by Merine Heberger

by Debbie Kramer

by Sandy Appelhans

by Dean & Chris Talbot

More inspiration...

2009-09-08T05:00:00.000-05:00

More swaps...

Enjoy!!

by Tracy Rosowski

by Karen Kurz

I loved this use of the lattice die!

by Carla Starry

by Jennifer Weide

by Carol Payne

Still More Swaps....

2009-09-07T07:00:00.004-05:00

I don't know if I've told you or not, but I got 90 swaps at Convention alone...plus I did 2 mail-in swaps for the Mini. I'll be sharing these swaps for the next little while, but will be throwing some of my class projects in, too!

My parents were in this weekend for my oldest son's birthday, and my Mom had requested that I help her make an invitation (can't share what it's for...it's a surprise!) and we worked on that last night. We have a total of 80 invitations that have been started. I will share one when I actually get one completed (she took the 4 that we completed with her). But...I can say they are really elegant and I'm very pleased with them. So...stay tuned for that. I also have Christmas Stamp-a-Stacks coming up and a Halloween Treat Class this month, plus my Clubs and a couple of workshops. It's just right now, everything's in process, but as the date approaches I'll be sharing all of those projects. I also just ordered My Digital Studio and I'm looking forward to playing with that and sharing some samples that I make with it. But for now...back to those Convention Swaps!

Thanks for stopping by...

(No name on this card...sorry!)

by Debbie Parker

(No name on this card...Sorry!)

by Kathy Howes

Convention Swaps...

2009-09-06T07:00:00.001-05:00

Thought I would take a break from the Mini and show you some samples from the 2009-2010 IB&C. These are some of the swaps I received from Convention. Let me know if you have any questions on any of these fabulous cards!

Enjoy!

by Kathy Howes

by Sharon Carr

by Lisa Stout

by Paulette Dunn

by Cindy Fodor

More Sharing from the Holiday Mini...

2009-09-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hope you're having a great day. See you again soon!!

by Dena Rekow

by Raedean Shibata

by Kelly Acheson

by Ruth Anne Lilley

by Susie Wood

Another Decor Element...

2009-09-04T07:00:00.001-05:00

I finally put up another of the Decor Elements wall vinyl that I had purchased quite a while back. This one is in my guest bath that's downstairs where I have my stamp class room ~ so that means all my customers that come for class will get to see this fantastic new product and how great it looks on the wall. This one is the Long-Stem Silhouette (M) ~ and I did apply two of them side by side. It was a little more difficult to burnish and get on the "sticky" side of the application paper, but I love the look of it! Definitely worth it...it attached to the wall quickly and easily. Hope you like it!!

Thanks for stopping by...

More great ideas from the Holiday Mini!

2009-09-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

Are you wanting all this great stuff yet?? Contact me with any questions or to place an order...or you can go to my website here to place an online order!

Enjoy!

by Lisa Hoffman

(Sorry there was no name attached to this card.)

by Janet Stockmann

by Ruth Bingle

by Dianne Connor

Samples from the New Holiday Mini!!

2009-09-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to share some samples I have using products from the new Holiday Mini! Contact me today for your copy. Note: If you are already a customer of mine, you should be getting your copy any day now!!

Thanks for stopping by...

by Jackie Ordway

by Richard Garay

by Carol Payne

by Amy Combs

by Wendy Moore

It's about that time of year!

2009-09-01T07:00:00.004-05:00

You know...to get your Christmas cards made and addressed!! There's only about 3-1/2 months until Christmas and you don't want to wait until the last minute to get your Christmas cards done. This is a Christmas card I made for a swap. It uses product from the new Holiday Mini that starts today! The embossing folder, the 2 stamp sets, an ornament punch, and the gold cord can be found in the new mini. Keep your eyes on the lookout ~ you might just see this card offered in a Christmas card class coming soon!! Let me know if you have any questions...

Thanks for checking in!

Supplies: Stamps: Four the Holidays, Delightful Decorations
Paper: Real Red, Old Olive, Very Vanilla
Ink: Real Red, Old Olive
Accessories: Ornament punch, Gold Elastic Cord, Old Olive 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain ribbon, Stampin' Up! Textured Impressions Folder Petals-a-Plenty, Sizzix Big Shot, dimensionals

The new Holiday mini is here!!!

2009-09-01T06:55:00.000-05:00

And it's fabulous! There are so many new and exciting products to check out....Click on the icon to download your copy today!

These products are available only until January 4th, so don't delay ~ order today! Please contact me with any questions regarding these great new products...or maybe you want all of the products shown and would love to have a workshop ~ I have dates available...

Swaps, Swaps, Swaps...

2009-08-31T07:00:00.000-05:00

You know the drill!! See you tomorrow...

by Jan Rodrian

by Amy Combs

by Emily Tull

by wmorgan (I just had an email address ~ not sure of the full name)

by Jackie Ordway

More Swaps...

2009-08-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here are more swaps ~ Thanks for stopping by!!

by Ruth Anne Lilley

by Dena Rekow

by Kelly Acheson

by Dianne O'Connor

by Cherri Gustafson

Hi, Ladies & Gentlemen...

2009-08-29T09:33:00.004-05:00

Hold on to your hats!! I finally got downstairs in my room last night and took tons of pictures. I'll be posting lots & lots of swaps and I'll throw in some of my creations in the middle. My hope is that you'll find something to inspire you from all these wonderful stampers ~ I know I found lots to inspire me!! I'm not going to put recipes with all of these cards, but please feel free to ask me any questions you might have...

Enjoy!!

by Nancy Hall

by Vivian Potter

by Sharon House

by Staci Wood

by Beverlee Morales

MIA!

2009-08-27T22:09:00.004-05:00

Sorry I've been MIA...I've been spending time with family, working on the Bible study I'm involved with, and I've done a couple of classes & swaps. I've got lots to share if I can just get pictures made and uploaded. Keep checking back!! I promise I'll be sharing something soon...

Thanks!!!

Another new product coming soon!!

2009-08-21T07:54:00.005-05:00

Introducing Simply Adorned Charms...available September 1st in the Holiday Mini catalog! This is another new product that they showed us at Convention. It's jewelry, but it's also a stamped work of art. They're nickel-plated with tempered, beveled glass on the front side and flat glass on the back. They come in 3 sizes and there are 2 chain lengths you can buy, or just put it on ribbon. Best of all -- they have a hinge that lets you easily insert and change your custom artwork inserts.

Here are a few photos...

My Digital Studio ~ Coming Soon!!

2009-08-18T18:31:00.008-05:00

I just wanted to share some photos from Convention that show some of the My Digital Studio end-products. Since Stampin' Up! announced that we were getting this software, I've been trying to think about how I would use it since I'm really not into Digital Scrapbooking...but I have to tell you, I'm really impressed and my mind is thinking of all the possibilities! I cannot wait to get my hands on this product. Apart from making cute photo cards, you can also design on the go without touching (and using up!) your supplies...before you ever touch a piece of cardstock you can know exactly what colors you're using as well as what embellishments you're going to use ~ that converts to little to no waste if your idea doesn't turn out just how you imagined it. Also the idea of doing photo books and calendars for gifts is wonderful...plus I can make my Christmas cards, have them printed out, then add a button or some ribbon for some 3-d. Just imagine...Stampin' Up! stamps, paper, ribbon, punches, etc all digital!! Plus, the printer they've contracted with has calibrated their printers to match Stampin' Up! colors ~ a must if you're going to do hybrid projects! Another plus...this will be available for Mac or PC. Have I caught your interest yet??

Well, here are some photos from Convention that will show you a little better than I can describe. Please note that there is no ribbon or ink or anything on any of these projects...it's all just printed paper...take note how real the ribbon and everything looks!! Fantastic!!

Please let me know if you have any questions concerning this new product...

Wait until you see what I'm sharing today!!

2009-08-14T21:39:00.005-05:00

OK...I know I've been gone but I have to share something that I'm really lovin' and is so fantastic you'll forgive me for being absent for so long!!

Have you ever purchased product from Stampin' Up! and it's sat and you're nervous about using it, so you let it sit a little more, and then you start thinking about it again, but then you get nervous again? Well, needless to say that's how I've felt about the Decor Elements vinyl we now carry. I've bought several but I've only played a little...mostly they've sat in their tubes and I worry about putting them on my walls because I'm worried they won't go on right or they won't look right when I get them up and there's no redoing them. But...I finally forced myself to use some I've had for a while. My boys' bathroom is done in dinosaurs...shower curtain, accessories, bath mat, etc. When SU! came out with the dinosaurs in the Decor Elements I knew they would just match perfect and look great. But I kept waiting, trying to decide how I was going to place them in the bathroom, worried that if I put them up too hastily then I would think of another way that I would've liked them better. I finally made myself get over that this week and I finally applied them...

There are 4 dinosaurs, 2 palm trees, and some grass. I placed 1 dinosaur and 1 tree with some grass over the commode, then placed the other 3 dinosaurs, the other tree, and the rest of the grass on the mirror.

CHECK THIS OUT!!!

Aren't they so cute!? Don't they look great!? And I don't feel like I need to do much else to their bathroom. I did purchase two navy frames from Ikea and I'm going to have each of the boys paint a dinosaur and I'm going to frame them and hang them above the dinosaurs that are above the commode. Trust me when I say this...You need to buy some NOW and just try them in one spot in your home!! They are so easy to apply and you will love them! Plus, when you get tired of them, you take them off without damaging the walls or mirrors (or anything else you find to put them on). Now I cannot wait to find another "perfect" spot for them in my home...and luckily I have a few I've already purchased ~ now I just need to get them on my walls!

So you want to check out all the designs and colors that we offer? Then check it out by clicking on the photo of the brochure below...

Also be sure to click on the link at the top of my right sidebar for the Limited Edition Growth Chart that is being offered. I'm ordering it and putting it in the hallway right outside the boys' bathroom and between their two rooms.

Thanks for stopping by! Feel free to ask my any questions about this fantastic line ~ the possibilities are endless!!!

Oy! What was I thinking?

2009-08-10T23:01:00.002-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted anything new since I've been back...I will be back to normal schedule in a couple of days! I got back from convention at almost 6:00 last night (Sunday evening) and had club tonight and I have another club tomorrow night and a 3rd one on Thursday night! Plus my son starts school tomorrow and the Bible Study I'm involved in starts tomorrow with a Craft Day to prep the children's ministry crafts! I have so many pictures to share ~ lots of great swaps!! Stay tuned for my posts to start sometime the next couple of days!!

Thanks for checking in!

Final Convention Swap

2009-08-09T07:00:00.001-05:00

Here's the last one...I'll be back home later today!

Enjoy!

Supplies:
Stamps: Falling Leaves
Paper: Soft Suede, Dusty Durango, Very Vanilla
Ink: Soft Suede, Dusty Durango
Accessories: Soft Suede 1/2" Polka-Dot Grosgrain ribbon, Big Shot, Texturz Plates Kit #4, Sponge Dauber (to ink edges of paper)

Hi from Covention!!!

2009-08-08T22:10:00.006-05:00

Well, it actually ended today at 4:30 but it has been so completely crazy...running here, running there, grabbing a bite to eat, going back to class, swapping, meeting up with friends (including the Rising Stars from last year ~ Hi, Ladies, so good to see you all!), grabbing a few hours of sleep...CRAZY!! but worth it. It's been a great time and I just wanted to check in and share a few photos. Hope you like them...

Me and my downline Laura Lynn:

Main Stage:

Me and Karin on Awards Night walking across stage for the cruise to the Southern Carribean:

The Gathering Place ~ Sample Boards:

Sites from Downtown:

The Convention Center

Temple Square

Convention Swap #4

2009-08-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hope you're enjoying my swaps! Thanks for stopping by...

Supplies:
Stamps: For All You Do
Paper: Bermuda Bay, Rich Razzleberry, Whisper White
Ink: Bermuda Bay, Rich Razzleberry
Accessories: Big Shot, Top Note die, Crimper, 1-3/4" Circle punch (to create mask), Silver brads, Dimensionals, Sponge

Convention Swap #3

2009-08-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

And another...

See you tomorrow!

Supplies:
Stamps: Chic Boutique
Paper: Basic Black, Melon Mambo, Cardstock Vellum, Whisper White
Ink: Stazon Black
Accessories: Black Gingham ribbon, Eyelet Border punch, Sticky Strip, Chunky Essentials Glitter (black)

Convention Swap #2

2009-08-06T07:00:00.001-05:00

Here's the 2nd Convention Swap I'm sharing with you...

Enjoy!

Supplies:
Stamps: Thank You Kindly
Paper: Rich Razzleberry, Pumpkin Pie, Whisper White
Ink: Whisper White
Accessories: Scallop Edge punch, Big Shot, Flower Daisies #2 die, 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo Brads

Swaps for Convention...

2009-08-05T07:00:00.001-05:00

Well, I decided it would be appropriate to share my swaps for Convention with you while I'm gone to Convention. I'll be showing one a day while I'm gone. Let me know if you have any questions about any of them...

Thanks for stopping by!

Supplies:
Stamps: FYI
Paper: Whisper White, Melon Mambo
Ink: Melon Mambo
Accessories: Big Shot, Texturz Plates Kit #4 (paisley), 5-Petal Flower punch, Basic Small Grommets, Crystal Effects, Chunky Essentials Glitter (white)

Computer Problems

2009-08-04T10:04:00.002-05:00

Sorry I've been away...I went to my sister's last week to visit and came home Sunday and realized we had something wrong with our computer. Messed with it a while...then looked at it again on Monday after a friend of mine contacted me and said somebody was on my Facebook account chatting with my friends trying to get money. Then I got worried I had some virus last night and called my BIL to talk to him about it...he doesn't know everything, but he got me pointed in the right direction and made me feel better that my computer hadn't been taken over by some crazy cybercriminal out there. I ran a scan and reloaded Mozilla (the browser I use)...for whatever reason I couldn't open my Yahoo mail account in Mozilla...it just locked it up. After doing all of that and getting everything going again late last night, it seems to be working like normal again. Still not sure what happened, but we'll just keep an eye on things for the next few days!

Anyway, the plan is to post some photos of some swaps I received last month...but I'm heading out tomorrow morning at 4:00 am to catch a plane to Salt Lake and the Stampin' Up! Convention! I'm going to try real hard to get some posts set up...but please bear with me. I hope to be back to normal soon!!!

Thanks!

Christmas in July

2009-07-30T07:00:00.001-05:00

This month our theme was Christmas in July for my Club Swap. We decided it would be the perfect time to start thinking about those Christmas cards and we'd get several ideas from each other. Here is my card...I just love this set!! So vintage ~ which I love for Christmas! Pretty basic design...Let me know if you have any questions. For the background I used Versamark for the postage stamp and Always Artichoke for the snowflake, plus I stamped off on some of the snowflakes so you actually end up with 3 shades in the background.

Enjoy! Thanks for stopping by...

Supplies:
Stamps: Winter Post
Paper: Always Artichoke, Bravo Burgundy, Naturals Ivory
Ink: Bravo Burgundy, Always Artichoke, Versamark
Accessories: Bravo Burgundy 5/8" Grosgrain ribbon, Designer Label punch, Dimensionals

Flight of the Butterfly doing the jig...

2009-07-29T07:00:00.001-05:00

This is a card I did for a workshop last week. We used the Stamp-a-ma-jig for the butterfly in order to place the dots right where they should be. I love how the Crushed Curry is so bright on Whisper White card stock. I was worried about how it would show up...most of the time yellows just don't look too good next to whites ~ but I love this! Hope you like it, too!

Have a great day!

Supplies:
Stamps: Flight of the Butterfly, Inspired by Nature
Paper: Kraft, Real Red, Old Olive, Whisper White
Ink: Crushed Curry, Real Red, Old Olive, Basic Black
Accessories: Crushed Curry 1/2" Polka-Dot Grosgrain ribbon, Scallop Edge punch, Stamp-a-ma-jig

Tearing & Spritzing

2009-07-28T07:00:00.002-05:00

For my club this month I had a request to show a tearing technique and some spritzing (with the Color Spritzer). This is the card I came up with:

I'm loving this new set Autumn Days ~ it makes such great masculine cards. I just tore the edge (about 1/2" in) on the Chocolate Chip. I then layered it onto a Naturals Ivory base after stamping the leaf image from this set using Chocolate Chip ink on the Chocolate Chip card stock...makes a great background! We stamped the pheasant in Chocolate Chip on the Naturals Ivory card stock layered it onto the Always Artichoke and used the Color Spritzer with the Chocolate Chip marker to antique/distress the two layers. Do you like the notches in the Always Artichoke? Well that's done using the Horizontal Slot punch. Just slide it about halfway in and punch on each side ~ makes a great "catch" for the Hemp Twine which always seems a little uncontrollable to me but is the perfect touch to a masculine card...we just circled the card stock twice with the hemp twine and tied it in a knot on the front. Hope you like it!!

See you tomorrow...

Supplies:
Stamps: Autumn Days, Sincere Salutations
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Always Artichoke, Naturals Ivory
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Hemp Twine, Horizontal Slot punch, Color Spritzer

What kind of demonstrator would you be??

2009-07-27T11:27:00.001-05:00

Join Stampin' Up! today for only $85!!

Whether you want to purchase your own stamping supplies at a discount, to earn some extra money from your hobby, or to build a business, Stampin’ Up!® provides you with the opportunity to reach your goals. There are all kinds of demonstrators, and Stampin’ Up! needs each of them! What kind of demonstrator would you be?

Discount Demonstrator: You like the idea of buying stamps and supplies for your personal use at a 20 percent discount and occasionally selling to neighbors, relatives, friends, etc.

Seasonal Demonstrator: You work hard for a short period of time or season to earn a specific amount of money or to achieve a specific goal, and then you maintain minimum orders and sales during the balance of the year.

Hobby Demonstrator: You love doing workshops and earning extra money when it is convenient. You work a lot some months and very little other months. You will do workshops if they are easy to book, and maybe have a regular group that meets together once a month. You enjoy the rewards that being a Stampin’ Up! demonstrator brings, but you don’t plan to make Stampin’ Up! a career.

Career Demonstrator: You view Stampin’ Up! as a viable business with long-term career potential. You pursue a management role, and you want to continue moving up with your Stampin’ Up! career. You love attending Stampin’ Up! events and have close relationships with other demonstrators. You work at your business in a consistent and outgoing manner.

As you can see, this is a fun, flexible business you can build to suit your Individual needs and goals. While anytime is a great time to join the Stampin' Up! family as a demonstrator, joining during July and August is especially sweet! Starting your own Stampin' Up! business means free and discounted products, plus a little extra cash--and who couldn't use that? From July 15 - August 31, you can become a Stampin' Up! demonstrator for only $85! The special, limited-time Mini Starter Kit contains many of the items you need to get started in your new business, including

For All You Do stamp set
In Color Classic Stampin' Pads (6)
Whisper White card stock (8-1/2" x 11")
In Color assorted card stock (8-1/2" x 11")
Business forms and tools

Or if you want to buy the standard $199 Starter Kit, in addition to the supplies listed below, you'll get all six of the new In Color Classic Stampin' Pads and one pack of In Color assorted card stock (8-1/2" x 11")--a $43 value! The standard Starter Kit includes

Four stamp sets
A Stampin' Around wheel, handle, and ink cartridge
Stampin' Pastels
Card stock
Eastern Blooms Décor Elements and applicator tool
Five Classic Stampin' Pads
VersaMark Pad
Stampin' Scrub and Mist
Blender pens
Business forms and tools

These special offers--the Mini Starter Kit and the In Color add-on to the standard Starter Kit--are only available for a limited time, so you must act fast!

Benefits of Becoming a Demonstrator
Whether you just love to stamp, or you want to grow a successful, thriving business, the Stampin' Up! opportunity is the right fit for you. Stampin' Up! demonstrators enjoy many benefits, with just a few listed below:

Product discount. Demonstrators get a 20 percent discount on all Stampin' Up! products, including stamp sets, paper, and accessories. It's a great way to support your love of stamping and paper crafting.
Extra income. You'll earn extra income based on your sales and recruiting--how much extra income is up to you. Maybe you just want enough income to pay the electric bill every month, or maybe your goal is bigger--the monthly payment for your new car--it's your decision!
Flexible schedule. This is your business, so you can put in as much (or as little) time as you'd like.
Support from Stampin' Up! We love our demonstrators and it shows through our demonstrator support materials, including a monthly magazine, workshop ideas, and audio and video trainings on all kinds of topics available on our Demonstrator Web Site.

For more information about becoming a demonstrator, contact me today! Ready to sign up? Just click here to Join My Team, then click Join Now in the lower left. Click on "Acknowledged", then use Password: "ilove2stamp". You have the choice of the $85 mini starter kit or the $199 starter kit.

My swap...

2009-07-27T07:00:00.001-05:00

I participated in a mail-in swap this month and this is the card I did. We had to use a new set out of the catalog that was NOT in the preview. I chose the set Falling Leaves. On my card I decided to use one of the new WIDE ribbons. I've had several customers comment that they don't know why we (SU!) started selling such wide ribbon ~ what can you use it for? ~ you can't use it on cards...and so on. So, I had to show how I envisioned using it on cards...so simple and I think it adds such a nice feature to the card. Just make it the part of the focal point rather than an accessory on the card. Hope this inspires you to try something new in the catalog that you think just can't possibly be used on a card!

Thanks for stopping by!!

Supplies: Stamps: Falling Leaves
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Dusty Durango, So Saffron
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Chocolate Chip 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain ribbon, 5/16" Chocolate Chip Jumbo Brad, Slit punch

I'm on the wagon!

2009-07-26T07:00:00.001-05:00

Well, I decided to jump on the band wagon last month and used Patty Bennett's Brayered Roses technique (be sure to check out the link for written instructions and a video!) for my club swap. I love the look this creates! It was so easy...just try it!!!

Enjoy!

Supplies:
Stamps: Oval All
Paper: Pumpkin Pie, Regal Rose, Pretty in Pink, Whisper White
Ink: Pretty in Pink, Regal Rose, Pumpkin Pie
Accessories: Pretty in Pink 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon, Large Oval punch, Scallop Oval punch, Stampin' Dimensionals, Manhattan Flower Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (an exclusive available only from us!), Sizzix Big Shot, Paper Snips (to cut around flowers)

A handmade card can mean so much...

2009-07-25T23:46:00.006-05:00

Last year I donated some cards to my CBS (Community Bible Study) Children's Department to use as Thank You's for ladies that had helped out with the kids. At the start of the year, our Children's Director had not used handmade cards, then when some of the ladies received the handmade cards, everyone was so quick to comment about how they loved them and those that had not received them were quick to point out that "I didn't get a hand-made card!" So...the Children's Director and I continued to make cards last year so no one got "left out."

We got smart this year and decided that all of Leadership could help out...so I prepped the cards and we got together as a group and made the Thank Yous. I hope they all enjoyed making them this year and we can all say we each had a "hand" in the Thank Yous for our members! Never underestimate the power of a handmade card!!!

Anyway...here are the cards I designed and we all made. They all had to be quick and easy...

Supplies:
Stamps: Thank You Kindly
Paper: Tea Party DSP, Almost Amethyst
Ink: Lovely Lilac
Accessories: So Saffron ribbon (retired ~ part of Sale-a-bration earlier this year)

Supplies:
Stamps: Le Jardin Botanique, En Francais
Paper: Mellow Moss, Always Artichoke, Very Vanilla
Ink: Always Artichoke
Accessories: 1/4" Always Artichoke Grosgrain ribbon, Eyelet Border punch

Supplies:
Stamps: Eastern Blooms, Sincere Salutations
Paper: Dusty Durango, Chocolate Chip, Whisper White
Ink: Dusty Durango (marker), Chocolate Chip (marker & Classic ink pad)
Accessories: Cutter Kit (to distress edges), Dusty Durango 1/2" Polka-Dot Grosgrain ribbon

Supplies:
Stamps: Curly Label Bundle stamp set (retired)
Paper: Razzleberry Lemonade DSP, Pumpkin Pie, Crushed Curry
Ink: Pumpkin Pie
Accessories: Curly Label punch, Crushed Curry 1/2" Polka-Dot Grosgrain ribbon, Flower Fusion Pumpkin Pie Felt Flower, Silver brad

A Wedding Card...

2009-07-24T23:12:00.004-05:00

Sorry for the delay the past few days...I had to finally just make myself go downstairs and take pictures of cards I've been working on! Actually, my husband and I are going to a wedding tomorrow and I "HAD" to go downstairs to my room and make a card, and then I knew I needed to take a picture so I could show all of you before I took it and gave it away. Then I decided to just make a bunch of pictures of all the cards I've been working on so now I'll have stuff to post over the next few days!! Yippee!!

Anyway...onto the reason you stopped by. I've had a headache most of today and just wasn't in the mood to think something up for a wedding card. I had to get the invitation out to check on the directions and realized that I could use the invitation as inspiration. I'm not sure who made these invitations, but I'm pretty sure they were hand-stamped...here is the invitation ~

And a close-up of the stamped part...

And here is my wedding card for them...

Using the invitation for inspiration made the wedding card so easy to create. Hope you like it!!

Supplies:
Stamps: Frames with a Flourish (retired), Lovely Letters Alphabet, Pocket Silhouettes, Together Forever
Paper: Very Vanilla, Certainly Celery, Chocolate Chip
Ink: Certainly Celery, Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Stamp-a-ma-jig (for lining everything up!!!), Chocolate Chip 5/8" Grosgrain ribbon, Dimensionals

Last of the Swaps!

2009-07-21T19:36:00.001-05:00

You made it to the end!! This is the last of the swaps that I received last month using the preview merchandise from the new catalog. Enjoy! I'll see you soon with some of my creations from classes I've been doing lately...

by Stacie Clark

by Robin Merriman

by Julie Salva

by Dianne O'Connor

Swaps ~ Take Ten

2009-07-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

More swaps...Let me know if you have any questions on any of the swaps I've been showing. I know sometimes it's hard to capture everything in a photograph and you might not be able to tell exactly how something is done...just let me know and I'll answer any questions!

Thanks for stopping by...

by Kimber Millard

by Cherri Gustafson

by Tiffany Cline

by Ruth Anne Lilley

Swaps ~ Take Nine

2009-07-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

I'm slowly running out of swaps for you to enjoy...just a couple more posts and it'll be back to some of the projects I've been up to.

Thanks for stopping by!

by Karen Trelfa

by Jodi Reinert

by Michelle Rahal

by Ruth Bingle

A Summer Invitation

2009-07-18T07:00:00.001-05:00

I needed to make an invitation to our CBS Summer Luncheon. Here is what I came up with...

I thought this turned out very summery and very girlie ~ Love the new Razzleberry Lemonade DSP! This is simple...but elegant ~ very easy to recreate. Hope you like it!

Supplies:
Stamps: Razzle Dazzle
Paper: Razzleberry Lemonade DSP, Crushed Curry, Melon Mambo, Whisper White
Ink: Melon Mambo
Accessories: Melon Mambo 1/2" Polka-Dot Grosgrain ribbon

Swaps ~ Take Eight

2009-07-17T07:00:00.002-05:00

More swaps to share!!

Enjoy!

by Jan Rodrian

by Selene Kempton

by Kathy Morgan

by Carol Stelzer

Swaps ~ Take Seven

2009-07-16T07:00:00.001-05:00

More swaps...Are you in love with all this new product yet?? I don't know how you can resist when you see so many great ideas!

Thanks for stopping by...

by Deb McCahan

by Karen Kurz

by Kelly Acheson

by Tiffany Bauer

Swaps ~ Take Six

2009-07-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

Still more swaps! Enjoy...

by Tepa Farias

by Jen Bailey

by Wendy (sorry I don't have a last name!)

by Lisa Bowell

Back to our regularly scheduled program...

2009-07-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

Here are some more swaps! Thanks for stopping by...

by Susan Auyer

by Jennifer Weide

by Sharon Cline

by Suzanna Hake

Downline Project & My Swap

2009-07-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

Here is the project Catherine did with us at my downline meeting ~ love it!! It uses the Movers & Shapers die to make the outside "wrap" of the box, then you make a "bottom" to slide into the "wrap." Isn't it great when you can use a die in so many different ways ~ it's not just for a card! The bottom slides out (just like a matchbox) ~ it works great for Hershey's Nuggets, mini candy bars, gift cards, etc.

Also, here is the card I did for my downline swap. Did you know that all of the shapes that come with the Movers & Shapers die layer perfect with the coordinating punch? Genius!!

Thanks for stopping by...

Supplies:
Stamps: Autumn Days, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: Dusty Durango, Crushed Curry, Chocolate Chip
Ink: Crushed Curry, Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Crimper, Dusty Durango 1/2" Polka Dot Grosgrain ribbon, Modern Label punch, Movers & Shapers die (Punch Windows ~ Modern Label for layering under the Modern Label punch)

WooHoo!! Just had to share...

2009-07-12T16:31:00.004-05:00

I'm on Stamper's Showcase! That's twice in the past couple of weeks! For those of you out there that don't know what this is, it's a place on Stampin' Up!'s demonstrator website that shares samples sent in by demonstrators. All demonstrators have the option to send in samples and these two are the only ones I've ever sent in (actually I didn't send them in...they got sent in with two different Rising Star Swaps I participated in ~ so thanks, RSs, for sending them in on my behalf!). Employees at SU! (not sure who or how) pick out samples to "showcase" every day ~ there's usually around 6 a day. I had this card shown on July 27th...

and then this card was shown on Friday...

Just had to celebrate! Thanks for sharing in the excitement with me...

We interrupt the regularly scheduled program...

2009-07-12T07:00:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to take a quick post and mention my downline. We had a meeting last Thursday. I had 2 of my first level and 4 of my second level attend and we had a guest speaker. Catherine Harwood, a demonstrator from Florida was here visiting family and offered to speak at our meeting and share a project with us. Catherine and I met a couple of years ago. She was visiting here right when the new catalogs were being delivered. She found me through the Stampin' Up! website and called to see if she could have one of my catalogs if they came in since she was 800 miles from home and had no way of getting her copy. Of course, knowing how exciting it is to get your hands on that new catalog, I let her have one! That would have been cruel punishment to say no! ;D Anyway, we've kept in contact and try to get together whenever she's visiting here. At the meeting Thursday we swapped samples, ate, talked, and made the project together! It was a great evening. Anyway...I just thought I would share the swaps that everyone brought. I'm so proud of them. Enjoy!

Be sure to stop by tomorrow when I share Catherine's project ~ I just know you'll love it!!

by Katy

by Melanie

by Karen

by Lynndorian

by Jamie

by Dana

Swaps ~ Take Four

2009-07-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

Thanks for stopping by!

by Joey Pogorel

by Lee Conrey

by Kathy Alt

by Karin Grotjohn

Swaps ~ Take Three

2009-07-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

And still more swaps (I think I received around 50 of them...so just sit back and enjoy!).

Enjoy!

by Cherise Schlicher

by Emily Tull

by Nancy Hall

by Stephanie Gerdes

Swaps ~ Take Two

2009-07-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

More swaps for you to enjoy! See you tomorrow...

by Amy Combs

by Anna-Marie Still

by Pat Chastain

by Jackie Ordway

Swaps, Swaps, and More Swaps

2009-07-08T20:45:00.003-05:00

I mentioned a few days back that I had participated in two different mail-in swaps using new preview stamp sets from the new catalog. So...now I'm going to be sharing these swaps with you over the next few days!! Hope you enjoy them!! Thanks for stopping by...

by Anita Ferre

by Denise Johnson

by Raedean Shibata

by Ruth Bingle

Stenciled Cards

2009-07-05T13:38:00.005-05:00

Here are the 2 cards I made for samples for the Stencil Class I had last week. I pretty much just showed my samples, then let everyone pick what colors they wanted to use. These are pretty much self-explanatory. You just lay the Kind Thoughts Brocade small stencil (from Definitely Decorative brochure) onto your card stock. Then, using sponge daubers in your choice of color, you just sponge the color onto the stencil. When you've completely put color on the stencil, you just raise the stencil, and voile...you have the design on your card! So easy...

Supplies:
Stamps: Thank You Kindly
Paper: Brocade Blue
Ink: Night of Navy
Accessories: Night of Navy 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon, Kind Thoughts Brocade small stencil, Sponge Dauber

And...you can even use multiple colors on your design ~ just use a different sponge dauber for each color:

Supplies:
Stamps: Friends 24-7
Paper: Sahara Sand, Very Vanilla, Ruby Red
Ink: Sahara Sand, Ruby Red, Creamy Caramel, Chocolate Chip, Old Olive
Accessories: Kind Thoughts Brocade small stencil, Sponge Daubers

Enjoy!! Thanks for stopping by...

Razzle Dazzle Lemonade

2009-07-03T07:00:00.001-05:00

Here is another swap card I did. It's using the new set Razzle Dazzle and the new Designer Series Paper Razzleberry Lemonade. This set is so easy to use! The main image (shown here) is so pretty by itself that you don't have to do a whole lot to the card. And, how do you like that new punch? It's called the Modern Label Punch. Plus, these new In Colors are wonderful!! Stay tuned for photos of some of the swaps I received!

See you again soon!

Supplies:
Stamps: Razzle Dazzle
Paper: Razzleberry Lemonade DSP, Rich Razzleberry, Crushed Curry, Very Vanilla
Ink: Rich Razzleberry
Accessories: Rich Razzleberry 1/2" Polka-Dot Grosgrain ribbon, Eyelet Border punch, 3/16" Corner Round punch, Modern Label punch, Vintage Brads, 1/16" Circle Handheld punch, Dimensionals

Introducing Circle Circus

2009-07-02T07:00:00.002-05:00

Here is a swap card I did. It uses the new set Circle Circus. I love the idea of this set, but really didn't have any ideas come to mind when I got it. I was at the pool one day with my kids and saw a girl's bathing suit that was brown with bright colored circles all over it. Inspiration struck ~ and this is what I came up with! Note the new In Colors: Soft Suede, Melon Mambo, & Bermuda Bay. Hope you like it...

Thanks for stopping by.

Supplies:
Stamps: Circle Circus, Full of Life
Paper: Soft Suede, Melon Mambo, Very Vanilla
Ink: Melon Mambo, Bermuda Bay, Soft Suede
Accessories: Scallop Edge punch (on sale this week for only $10.95!!), Double Rectangle punch, 1-3/4" Circle punch, 1-1/4" Circle punch, 1" Circle punch, Soft Suede 1/2" Polka-Dot Grosgrain ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals

Deal of the Week #1

2009-07-01T13:48:00.006-05:00

Every Monday Stampin' Up! will be offering a different "Deal of the Week." Check back here every Monday at noon to find out what the special is!
This week (July 1st - 5th), purchase the Scallop Edge Punch for only $10.95 (regularly $15.95)! If you only want to order this item at this time, please contact me via email or by phone to place your order and I will order everyone's together on July 5th. That way you'll save on shipping!! Contact me today before this offer is gone. Check back next Monday, July 6th at noon for the next special...

The new catalog is here!!!

2009-07-01T07:53:00.004-05:00

Check it out! You can click on the picture below, or you can go to the picture of the catalog in my sidebar...You're going to love everything in this catalog!!!

Stampin' Up! has also released their new Definitely Decorative brochure (this has replaced their Decor Elements brochure).

Let me know if you have any questions! If you want your own personal copy of either catalog, contact me today!

Have a fabulous new product, Stampin' Up! day!!

Dormant List Announced

2009-07-01T06:00:00.001-05:00

The Dormant List for the new 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalog has been released. Click here to view the file. This file contains a list of stamp sets & wheels that, while they're not shown in the current catalog, are still available for purchase. The file lists the last catalog the image was shown in so that you can look up what the stamp set looks like, or you can visit my online store (just click on the Shop Now button in the top right corner) to view the images. I've also added the file to my sidebar underneath the catalog so you can find it anytime you need it! Let me know if you have any questions...

Today is the last day...

2009-06-30T19:00:00.002-05:00

to order from the Occasions Mini Catalog as well!! Here are two cards I did for workshops this past month that both use sets from the mini that are NOT carrying over to the new catalog tomorrow...so, get them while you can!!

Here is a card I just love ~ I have to admit that I cased it from a very talented demonstrator named Mary Fish ~ she's also featured in this month's Stampin' Success for all you demonstrators out there! This card has so many layers on it ~ but what a great idea to use this set from the Mini. Lots of stuff going on...you use the Circle Scissor to cut a circle out of Whisper White card stock, then punch a top and bottom using the Word Window punch. You layer your fish into the fishbowl, then attach a Window Sheet onto the back of that top fishbowl layer to make it look like glass! How fun...

Supplies: Stamps: Just Cruisin' By, Polka Dot (background) Paper: Whisper White, Riding Hood Red, Baja Breeze, Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss Ink: Tangerine Tango, Baja Breeze, Riding Hood Red Accessories: Pacific Point ribbon, Circle Scissor, Word Window punch, 1" Circle punch, Large Oval punch, transparency sheet, 1/2" Circle punch, Pop-up Glue Dots, Mini Glue Dots

This next card is a Z-fold card using the set And Many Mower. This was the first time I had made a z-fold card...it is SOOO EASY!!! You basically cut a piece of card stock 11 X 4-1/4, then you fold it in half like you would to make a regular sized card, but then you take the front of the card and fold it back in half to meet the original crease. Add a square for your design to overlap the inside of the card and you're finished!! Go try one today...I promise you'll love it!! Plus it's an easy way to showcase some Designer Series Paper. I colored my image on the front using our In Color ink pads and a Blender Pen...but, did you hear, Stampin' Up! is now offering our In Colors in a package of markers!!! Woo Hoo!! Now it is even easier to color images and stamps with the oh-so-popular In Colors!!

Supplies:
Stamps: And Many Mower
Paper: Urban Oasis DSP, Kraft, Naturals White, Kiwi Kiss, Baja Breeze
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Kiwi Kiss, Baja Breeze
Accessories: NONE (I can't believe I made a card without ribbon! ;D)

Come back soon!! I'm going to be showing some great ideas using NEW PRODUCT that's available starting tomorrow!!

The end of the month is today!!!

2009-06-30T15:22:00.001-05:00

Oh, My!!! It snuck up on me...the last day of the month is today....so that means today's the final day to order retiring stuff!!! So...here are the final two last chance cards.

Thanks for stopping by...

Supplies: Stamps: To You & Yours (on the dormant list...it is retiring!), See You Around (wheel is retiring) Paper: Kraft, Very Vanilla, Chocolate Chip Ink: Chocolate Chip, Whisper White Accessories: Chocolate Chip 5/8" Grosgrain ribbon, Kraft Taffeta ribbon

Supplies:
Stamps: Life's a Breeze, Hugs & Wishes
Paper: Rainbow Sherbet DSP, Tempting Turquoise, Apricot Appeal, Green Galore, Whisper White
Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Green Galore, Apricot Appeal
Accessories: Small Oval punch, Large Oval punch, Silver Brads

LAST CHANCE LISTS...

2009-06-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

ETA: I WILL BE UPDATING THIS ENTRY AND REPOSTING EVERY DAY SO THAT YOU HAVE THE MOST UP-TO-DATE RETIRING ACCESSORIES LIST ~ CHECK BACK TO SEE WHAT'S STILL AVAILABLE!!

The last chance lists have been announced by Stampin' Up!~

For the last chance stamp sets click HERE...Stamps on this list are available until June 30th. Contact me to order the ones you want TODAY!!

For the last chance accessories, click HERE to download my Excel file (yes...I just figured out how to attach a file in Blogger so I don't have to have this long list attached to my blog! :D). These accessories are only available "WHILE SUPPLIES LAST" ~ some of the items are available for up to 50% off!! Contact me today to order the items you want while they're still available.

For the last chance Definitely Decorative list click HERE...Almost all of these items are available until June 30th. The only item that's available "WHILE SUPPLIES LAST" is the Designer Delight (stencil) found on page 23 of the current Decor Elements brochure.

Please let me know if you have any questions!!

Swimming, Dollywood, the Zoo, & camping...

2009-06-28T18:12:00.008-05:00

Oh, My!! Sorry I've not been around...I've been busy the past week. My sister came in to visit my Mom early last week so the kids and I decided to go up and spend a few days. My Mom has a pool, so the kids got to go swimming. Then, we went to Dollywood on Tuesday and the Zoo on Wednesday. I got home last Wednesday afternoon, unpacked and repacked to go camping on Thursday...not to mention I had a class Thursday night before I went to the campsite. But we're back now and hopefully can get semi back to normal this week. Anyway...on to a picture of another Last Chance Card...

These two cards are pretty much the same...I had cut a couple of different pieces of Washington Apple DSP (now retired!! ~ it's sold out...) and gave everyone the option of either the Bashful Blue Taffeta ribbon or the Riding Hood Red Taffeta ribbon (also retiring!). (Excuse the Chocolate Chip ink on the second card...it kind of hit the ink pad during class! ;D) Both cards use two retiring sets: Blooming with Love and Absolutely Fabulous.

Hope you like them!

Supplies:
Stamps: Blooming with Love, Absolutely Fabulous
Paper: Washington Apple DSP, Pumpkin Pie, Whisper White
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Riding Hood Red, Pumpkin Pie, Bashful Blue, Old Olive, So Saffron
Accessories: Bashful Blue Taffeta ribbon or Riding Hood Red Taffeta ribbon

Last Chance Card 4

2009-06-25T09:36:00.005-05:00

Here's another Last Chance card...

I thought this had such a nice masculine look to it! This is the set Wonderful You. I paired it up with the Urban Oasis DSP (also retiring!!). For the solid image leaf stamp, I inked it with Close to Cocoa, stamped off, then stamped on my paper to give it a shading closer to the Kraft card stock in the base of the card. Several of the ladies in the class made this into a Father's Day card. Hope you like it!

Thanks for stopping by...

Supplies:
Stamps: Wonderful You
Paper: Urban Oasis DSP, Basic Black, Very Vanilla, Kraft
Ink: Close to Cocoa, Basic Brown
Accessories: Basic Black 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon, Ticket Corner punch, Small Oval punch, Large Oval punch, Vintage Brads (black)

Last Chance Card 3

2009-06-23T07:00:00.001-05:00

...and yet another card from my "Last Chance Card Class." There are 7 total so be prepared to enjoy a few more days of them!!

This card uses the set Stitched Exotics along with the retiring Raspberry Tart paper. This is just a basic stamped card ~ left blank to use for any occasion. The main flower image is stamped on a scrap piece of paper and cut out...add a Rhinestone Brad for some bling!! Just use a paper piercer (there is one available in the new catalog coming out on July 1st ~ you no longer have to purchase the entire Crafter's Tool Kit to get a Paper Piercer!!) and mat to punch a circle wherever you want a brad ~ you don't have to be able to reach it with a punch. The swirl image in the background is stamped using the same stamp twice...you just stamp it one way, then flip the stamp over and stamp it the other ~ swirls are great for stamping twice like that!! Finish it off with the scrumptious Kiwi Kiss Satin Ribbon that is also retiring.

Hope you like it!! See you again soon...

Supplies:
Stamps: Stitched Exotics
Paper: Raspberry Tart DSP, Kiwi Kiss, Kraft, Whisper White
Ink: Cameo Coral, Kiwi Kiss
Accessories: Kiwi Kiss Satin ribbon, Circle Ice Rhinestone brads (green), Paper Piercer, Mat Pack, Stampin' Dimensionals

Last Chance Card 2

2009-06-22T07:00:00.004-05:00

Here is another card I offered at my "Last Chance Card Class." I just love this set ~ A Little Birdie Told Me!! My favorite thing to do with it is to Paper Piece...that's where you stamp the image onto a neutral card stock (Whisper White on this card), then stamp the image onto colored or patterned paper and cut it out, then adhere it to it's place on the original stamped image ~ what a quick way to add color or patterns! This set is also very versatile...it comes with words that are for a promotion, marriage, illness, celebration, birthday, good news, or just "you're the best!" Be sure to get this set while you can ~ once July 1st is here, it's gone forever...

Thanks for stopping in!!

Supplies:
Stamps: A Little Birdie Told Me
Paper: Real Red, Bashful Blue, Not Quite Navy, Whisper White
Ink: Not Quite Navy
Accessories: Real Red 1/2" Striped Grosgrain ribbon, Designer Label punch, 1" Circle punch

Last Chance Card 1

2009-06-21T07:00:00.002-05:00

This is a card I did in my Last Chance Card Class and a couple of workshops this month. It uses retiring In Colors and the set Say It with Scallops (the retiring Ronald McDonald Stamp Set). You also get to try your hand at using one of our wheels called It's Beautiful...which is NOT retiring and is in the new catalog coming out on July 1!

The circle was punched using the 1-1/4 Circle punch after the image was stamped in Pacific Point on Whisper White...it creates a "reverse" image with this solid stamp ~ I had several ladies that wanted to know where the "blue paper" was to stamp the image on...not realizing that it's actually "blue ink" on Whisper White card stock. And, this image is actually a square stamp. Don't forget to think outside that box...just because the image is square doesn't mean you can't make it a circle! And don't you just love our clips ~ so cute!!

Enjoy!

Supplies:
Stamps: Say It with Scallops, It's Beautiful (jumbo wheel)
Paper: Tangerine Tango, Pacific Point, Whisper White
Ink: Pacific Point
Accessories: 1-1/4" Circle punch, Scallop Circle punch, Scallop Edge punch, Pacific Point 5/8" Striped Grosgrain ribbon, Clips Assortment (1/" small library clip), Whisper White Taffeta ribbon, Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots

June Club Card 1

2009-06-20T15:38:00.001-05:00

Here is a card we did in my 3 clubs this month ~ it's using a retiring stamp set called Wild About You. We used the "thumping" technique with Stampin' Up!'s markers. For this technique we inked our image first in Certainly Celery Classic Ink, then used the Garden Green marker. Using the brush tip end, you just "thump" the marker onto your inked stamp, huff on the stamp, then stamp your image onto your cardstock. Just remember to always ink in a lighter color, then thump in a darker color so you don't mess up your markers! Don't you just love the "bite" taken out of the corner using the Scallop Circle punch!

Hope you like it!!

Supplies:
Stamps: Wild About You
Paper: Garden Green, Certainly Celery, Kraft, Whisper White
Ink: Certainly Celery, Garden Green
Accessories: Slit punch, Hemp Twine (natural), Scallop Circle punch

Stampin' Up! is now on YouTube

2009-06-18T07:17:00.005-05:00

Good Morning, Everyone!

Yes...Stampin' Up! is now on YouTube.

I just wanted to let you know that I've created a link in my sidebar to the Stampin' Up! YouTube Channel. There are free videos that Stampin' Up! is sharing to teach you more about our company and our products. There are some great ideas on these videos as well. If you'd like, you can subscribe to their channel and whenever a new video gets posted, it notifies you. All you have to do is click on the subscribe button and create a username and password ~ it's all FREE!! So check them out today...

Enjoy!

Good Friend Explosion Box

2009-06-17T22:55:00.012-05:00

Here's another Explosion Box I made. I had had some requests for a tutorial, so I had to make a new sample and take pictures along the way. What's different about this explosion box compared to some I've seen, is it will hold a total of 20 4"X6" photos...the actual box is made using a total of 6 sheets of 12X12 cardstock. And, I just love this Good Morning Sunshine DSP ~ so sad that it's retiring!! Get yours while it's still available...

If you would like a copy of this tutorial, please click here and download your FREE copy today!! Be sure to leave me a comment and let me know how you like my first tutorial!! Thanks...

Glad you stopped by...

Supplies:
Stamps: Good Friend
Paper: Good Morning Sunshine DSP, Chocolate Chip, Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss, Naturals White
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss, Summer Sun
Accessories: Chocolate Chip 5/8" Grosgrain ribbon, Chocolate Chip 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon, Dimensionals

FINALLY!!! A Card...

2009-06-16T22:50:00.003-05:00

Sorry I've been MIA...sometimes life just catches up to you...

Anyway, here's a baby card I made for my husband's cousin who is expecting her first child in August. I just love the Texturz Dies ~ they add so much to a simple card. Plus...I got to use pink since she's having a girl ~ no pink things around here with 2 boys and a husband! ;D Sorry for the backdrop for the photo ~ I took a picture on the way to the shower laying the card on the console of the truck...it was one of those last minute cards ~ easy to come up with if you stamp!! Hope you like it!

Enjoy!

Supplies:
Stamps: Beautiful Baby (those single stamps in the back of the catalog!), Nursery Necessities
Paper: Pretty in Pink, Whisper White
Ink: Close to Cocoa
Accessories: Sizzix Big Shot, SU! Backgrounds I Texturz Plates, SU! Lots of Tags Sizzlet die, Metallic Eyelets, Crop-a-dile (love this for setting eyelets...if you've never tried it, you're missing out!!!), Whisper White 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Word Window punch

It's Official!!!

2009-06-11T07:22:00.004-05:00

Hi, Everyone! Sorry I've been absent this week but I've been really focused on wrapping up this....

I have a club order that I'm waiting on the hostess to pick out her benefits ~ once that's done and I push "SEND" it's official!!! I have earned the Southern Caribbean Incentive Trip with Stampin' Up!! I figured last year was just an accident (especially with double points), but to do it a 2nd year in a row, I'm really excited and proud!! Thank you to my customers and downline that have supported me this year ~ you all are the greatest!! I promise once I get back from out of town this weekend, I will get some projects posted. Thank you for your patience....

2009-06-07T17:02:00.002-05:00

Hi, everyone! Sorry I haven't posted anything new in a couple of days. I have 2 clubs this week and another workshop, plus 2 swaps I've signed up for. So...I'm busy stamping away ~ I just can't share any of it yet. I'll try to get something posted soon! Thanks for stopping by!

Special Card

2009-06-05T10:11:00.005-05:00

In a previous post I mentioned my SAM (Service Account Manager). When you earn the Incentive Trip with Stampin' Up! they assign you what's called a SAM ~ they're the person at Stampin' Up! that you call direct to help you with anything in your business that you need. I had called my SAM a couple of weeks ago to ask about ideas for increasing my sales in June to see if she had any insight since I'm so close to earning the Incentive Trip to the Southern Carribean this year. We also talked about my downline and things I had done to increase my sales. Stampin' Up! uses the SAM Program to interact more with their demonstrators which helps all demonstrators ~ just a good line of communication! Anyway, within a few days of talking to her, I received a card (handmade, of course!) from her in the mail...so I thought I would share it with you. Employees at Stampin' Up! all stamp, too!!

Thanks for stopping by!

Supplies:
Stamps: Upsy Daisy
Paper: Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Mellow Moss, Baja Breeze (textured)
Ink: Baja Breeze, Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Chocolate Chip 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon, Scallop Edge punch

Decor Stencils...

2009-06-03T07:00:00.004-05:00

Today's project was an idea my SAM (Service Account Manager) sent out last week. There were a couple of demonstrators that had submitted ideas using our Stencils found in the Decor Elements catalog. Both of these projects were inspired by projects done by Kimberly Van Diepen...

(ETA: The date has been changed for this class ~ it will now be offered on Monday, June 29th at 6:00 pm!! Contact me today to reserve your spot.)

Do you like what you see? Do you want to learn the different ways to use these stencils? Well, you'll be happy to know that I'm offering these two projects, plus a card at a Stamp Camp on June 27th from 9:00 am - 12:00 noon at my house. Cost of the class is $35 ~ included in the price of this class are the 3 projects, plus you get to keep the Kind Thoughts Flourish Stencil, a package of Sponge Daubers, and the On Board Art Journal ~ that's more than $30 worth of products! Contact me today to reserve your spot (Deadline to sign up is Friday, June 12th so that I can order your Stencil, Sponge Daubers, and Art Journal.)...

Let me know if you have any questions! Enjoy!

Supplies:
Stamps: Fundamental Phrases, Great Friend
Cardstock: Very Vanilla, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip
Ink: Chocolate Chip (Classic & Craft, marker), Old Olive (Classic & Craft), Ruby Red (Classic & Craft), Creamy Caramel (Classic & Craft)
Accessories: Chocolate Chip Corduroy Button, Antique Brass, Jumbo Eyelet, Linen Thread, Chocolate Chip 5/8" Grosgrain ribbon, Chocolate Chip 1" Double-Stitched Grosgrain ribbon, Sponge Daubers, Wide Oval punch, Small Oval punch, Glassy Glaze Enamel, Sizzix Big Shot, Stampin' Up! Lots of Tags die, Color Spritzer, Kind Thoughts Flourish Stencil, stencil paste

Flip-Flop Card

2009-06-02T07:00:00.002-05:00

I participated in a Folding Card Swap in the month of May. There were so many neat cards!! Here's the card I did for it...

This is called a Flip-Flop Card. It's so hard to tell exactly how this card works without seeing it in real life. In the top photo you see the front...just imagine the card laying flat. Then you just pull on each side and the middle of the card "flip flops" to the other side (shown in the 2nd photo). I just love the Sweet Always paper!! I will miss it when it's gone. Everything I use it on is just so stinkin' cute!! It really makes a project with it's color combination.

Glad you stopped by...

Supplies:
Stamps: Oval All (Occasions Mini), Absolutely Fabulous
Card Stock: Sweet Always DSP, Regal Rose, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Pink Pirouette
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Scallop Edge punch, Scallop Oval punch, Large Oval punch, Double Rectangle punch, Chocolate Chip 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon, Flower Fusion Too (Chocolate Chip), 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo Brads (Whisper White)

Embossed Wedding/Anniversary Card

2009-06-01T07:00:00.006-05:00

ETA: Click here to go to my home page!

My downline Katy had done a wedding card that I thought was really pretty and simple, so I thought I would use her card as inspiration and make one of my own.

You can see her card HERE.

And here is my version...

I just love the Manhattan Flower Textured Impressions Die!! It makes such a beautiful image with very little effort. I used the Shimmery White Card Stock for the card base ~ just enough shimmer to make it special. I only ran the front half of the card through the Big Shot using the Embossing Textured Impressons Die. After I embossed the flower image, I cut around the outside edge and layered the Basic Gray card stock behind it to make it POP. Hope you like it!

Enjoy...

Supplies:
Stamps: Sincere Salutations
Card Stock: Shimmery White, Basic Gray
Ink: Versamark
Accessories: Silver Stampin' Emboss Powder, Key Tag punch, Basic Gray Taffeta ribbon, Horizontal Slot punch

Summer Fun Campaign

2009-05-31T17:07:00.005-05:00

Summertime means flip flops, beach umbrellas, swimming pools, popsicles, and spending time with friends--both old and new. This June and July, Stampin' Up! is celebrating one of the most enjoyable times of the year with the Summer Fun Campaign.

Spend time this summer doing what you love with family and friends--hold a workshop (or several workshops!) during June, July, and August and take advantage of all the great offers that are coming your way.

Among other exciting offers, the Summer Fun Campaign will include

Last Chance list (formerly the Retired list)
Summer Fun Hostess Bonus Promotion
Country Living Summer Cookout Kit
Summer School

Last Chance List

You may be wondering what the Last Chance list is. The Last Chance list is the new name of the Retired list. This list will include all stamp sets and accessories that will be retiring as of June 30th. Although the stamp sets are available all the way until June 30th, the accessories are available first-come, first-serve meaning they are only available while supplies last. Be sure to order sooner rather than later to make sure you get all of the items you want before they're gone forever!!

Summer Fun Hostess Bonus Promotion

Dates: June 1-30, 2009

Promotion Details:

The Summer Fun Hostess Bonus Promotion has two parts:

Hostesses who hold a $250-$399.99 workshop will receive an additional $20 in hostess free merchandise dollars.
Hostesses who hold a $400 or more workshop will receive an additional $40 in hostess free merchandise dollars.

Country Living Summer Cookout Kit

Dates: June 1 - August 31, 2009 (or while supplies last)

Once again we have partnered with Country Living magazine to bring you the Country Living Summer Cookout Kit containing simple and speedy projects that will add zest to your summer cookouts.

Summer School

Dates: June 1 - August 31, 2009

“Summer School” is in session! During the months of June, July, and August, you will have an opportunity to win a $25 gift certificate from me for Stampin’ Up! products. Your name will be entered in the drawing when you attend classes, place orders, or host a Stampin’ Up! workshop. There will be four lucky winners drawn at the end of August ~ each winning a $25 Gift Certificate (offer valid only with me)!

Here's how you "earn" tickets:

* Attend monthly club/class: 1 ticket
* Attend a special class or workshop: 2 tickets
* Place a $50 order: 3 tickets
* Place a $75 order: 4 tickets
* Place a $100 order: 5 tickets
* Host a workshop: 10 tickets

Contact me today to take advantage of all that Stampin' Up! has to offer!!!

Inspiration??

2009-05-31T13:49:00.004-05:00

Where do you find inspiration for your projects?? I was flipping channels the other day and something on The Ellen DeGeneres Show caught my attention. On the stage with her is a TV and they have a sign with her name showing on it. Well...anyway...I was inspired. Here is the TV (you can see it in the middle)...

And here is my card...

What do you think?? Anyway...just remember, inspiration can be found anywhere!! Look around you...is there something you see that inspires you??

Thanks for stopping in!

Supplies:
Stamps: Baroque Motifs, Jumble Alphabet (available in the NEW catalog debuting on July 1st!), Flight of the Butterfly
Cardstock: Glorious Green, Whisper White, Tempting Turquoise
Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Yoyo Yellow, Glorious Green, Pink Passion
Accessories: Tempting Turquoise 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon, Rhinestone Brad Circle Fire (pink), Crop-a-dile (to punch hole in tag for ribbon), 3/16" Corner Rounder punch, Sponge Daubers, Brayer

Club Swap Card

2009-05-30T07:00:00.004-05:00

I've been doing a swap with my club members...I'm so proud of those that have participated ~ all of the cards have turned out really great!!

This is the card I did for this month's swap. The theme this month was to use some kind of embellishment ~ it couldn't just be cardstock and ink on the card. Let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks for stopping by!

Supplies:
Stamps: Full of Life (dormant)
Cardstock: Parisian Breeze Specialty DSP, Baja Breeze (textured), Chocolate Chip, Whisper White
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Sizzix Big Shot, Top Note Die, Chocolate Chip Taffeta ribbon, Flower Fusion Too felt flowers (Chocolate Chip), Jumbo Brads 5/16" Neutrals Assortment (Chocolate Chip)

Father's Day Card

2009-05-29T07:00:00.003-05:00

Here is a Father's Day card using Totally Tool and the Faux Wood Technique. You use Whisper White Craft ink, Creamy Caramel, and Close to Cocoa ink on More Mustard cardstock to create the background. You just swipe the Creamy Caramel crosswise, then the Close to Cocoa in the same direction, followed by Whisper White, then redo the Creamy Caramel and Close to Cocoa to finish it off.

Enjoy!

Supplies:
Stamps: Totally Tool, And Many Mower
Cardstock: Very Vanilla, Basic Black, More Mustard
Ink: Whisper White, Creamy Caramel, Close to Cocoa, Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Vintage Brads (Black), Black Hemp Twine, Stampin' Up! Lots of Tags die, Sizzix Big Shot, Dimensionals

Grommets & Glitter

2009-05-28T07:00:00.002-05:00

Here is a card that showcases the Chunky Glitter and the Small Grommets (found in the Occasions Mini catalog). You just push the grommet through the one layer of cardstock (Very Vanilla on this card) and use a small craft hammer to hammer the teeth down. I used Crystal Effects to cover the inside of the grommet and then just poured Chunky Glitter on it.

And here is a close-up of the Grommet & Glitter...

The flower was colored using Classic Ink & Blender Pens.

Let me know if you have any questions...

Thanks for stopping by!

Supplies:
Stamps: Wagon Full of Fun
Cardstock: Sahara Sand, Very Vanilla, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip DSP
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Tangerine Tango, Old Olive
Accessories: Basic Small Grommets (Silver), Tangerine Tango 5/8" Striped Grosgrain ribbon, Chunky Glitter (Crystal Iris)

Last of the Masculine Swaps

2009-05-26T17:06:00.006-05:00

Here are the last of the Masculine Card Swaps I received...

Enjoy!!

by Carol Payne

by Christin Rocha

by Jan Rodrian

by Colleen Morrow

by Raedean Shibata

I'm still here...

2009-05-22T22:27:00.006-05:00

Sorry, Everyone...I'm still here ~ I've just been busy this week. Besides being the last week of school for my Kindergartener (with Kindergarten Graduation on Monday), it was also the last week of the Bible study I've been involved with for more than 30 weeks, plus we had Vacation Bible School this week (Monday - Friday) at our church, and my husband was out of town on business for a few days...it's made for a crazy week!!

Here's a picture of my little graduate ~ ;D Boy, does time fly!!

And...here is a picture of the card I made for his teacher as a Thank You for such a wonderful year! On the Top Note die cutout...I actually used the frame that was left over from a swap card I did (here). I figured since I had more than 20 frames, I might as well use them for something...

Hope you like it!

Supplies:
Stamps: Varsity Alphabet, Tart & Tangy, Thank You Kindly
Cardstock: Basic Black, Kraft, Old Olive, Whisper White
Ink: Whisper White, Real Red
Accessories: Big Shot, Top Note Die, Real Red Gingham ribbon, Basic Black Gingham ribbon, 1-1/4" Circle punch, 1-3/8" Circle punch

Explosion Photo Box

2009-05-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

Good morning, Everyone! I wanted to share a project that's been quite popular for me ~ an explosion album box. What is different from this box compared to most I've seen is it can hold 4X6 photos. Most explosion boxes only hold small photos because each "layer" is made with one 12X12 piece of cardstock. The box I've made is actually made with 2 pieces of 12X12 cardstock for each layer. Here are the photos of one of the boxes I've made. I also did one for a Mother's Day class I did ~ but sold my sample so I don't have one to show. We used the DSP Tea Party for it. I also have a kit made up that uses the DSP Good Morning Sunshine and Good Friend stamp set. I'll post it as soon as I get one made up. The box stands close to 7" tall and is about 4-1/2" on each side.

Thanks for checking in!

Supplies:
Stamps: Inspired by Nature
Cardstock: Bella Rose DSP, Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Riding Hood Red
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Riding Hood Red, Versamark, Whisper White Craft
Accessories: Chocolate Chip 5/8" Grosgrain ribbon, Chocolate Chip 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon

More Swaps & a Funny...

2009-05-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here are a few more of the swaps I received. I have discovered so many talented people out there that have such great ideas!! If you ever get the chance to participate in a swap, I highly recommend it. I know I tend to make cards that have the same style, but by participating in a swap, I have more samples for myself and my customers that might inspire us differently than my style.

I hope you enjoy them!

by Susie Wood

by Ruth Anne Lilley

by Dena Rekow

by Lisa Hoffman

by Karen Kurz

A funny story:

So...I've been having trouble with my boys (ages 6 & 3) getting ready to go to bed, then starting in with "I'm hungry," "I'm thirsty," etc, etc, etc. So I've been fussing at them, telling them to "Quit stalling ~ it's time for bed." So, on Wednesday, we were running a little behind getting them ready for bed and I was rushing them through a bath. I got my little one out and started drying him off, when he says, "Momma, I'm stalling. I want something to eat." All I could do was laugh until I cried. You gotta love kids and the things they come off with ~ it definitely keeps life in perspective! Have a great rest of the day!!

More GREAT Swaps!

2009-05-16T21:26:00.004-05:00

Just sharing more of the swaps I received! Hope you are enjoying these swaps as much as I do!!

Thanks for stopping by...

by Cherri Gustafson
I loved how Cherri paper-pierced in between each of the diamonds from the texture plate on the background ~ what a great idea to add just a little more dimension!

(Sorry ~ there's not a name on the back of this swap.)

by Staci Wood

by Dianne O'Connor

by Nancy Hall

Masculine Swap Cards

2009-05-13T09:57:00.001-05:00

Here are some of the Masculine Cards I received in the swap I participated in...

Enjoy!!

by Sharon House

by Jackie Ordway

by Carol Stelzer

by Deb McCahan

by Emily Tull

Masculine Swap

2009-05-11T07:00:00.001-05:00

I participated in a Masculine Card Swap at the end of April. I don't know about you, but masculine cards aren't always the easiest cards to come up with...so I was pretty excited about getting more than 20 ideas in my hot little hands! This is the card I did for the swap:

This is a pretty basic card that can be used for any age male. I started with the Basic Black layered onto the Kraft. I then added the Top Note Die after I stamped it with the Sanded background and ran it through the crimper. Layered a few punched stars ~ the two sizes work great together or separate. I stamped off on the baseball images so they would be lighter with the wording ~ then added a touch of hemp twine for interest and that extra-masculine touch.

I hope that I've given you something to think about the next time you need a masculine card. Check back over the next few days for the swaps I received ~ I guarantee you'll see something that will inspire you!

Enjoy!!

Supplies:
Stamps: Just Baseball, Sporting, Sanded
Cardstock: Kraft, Basic Black, Whisper White, Real Red, Brilliant Blue
Ink: Basic Black, Real Red, Brilliant Blue, Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Metallic Eyelets, Hemp Twine, Large Star punch, Star punch, Crimper