Joan's Daily Stampede

Mojo Monday #231

2012-03-05T09:27:00.001-06:00

I love this week's sketch and can see it being VERY versatile!

For today's card I went to the aged effect while using a DSP that I don't normally reach for, Beau Chateau. There are a lot of supplies in this one but it came together rather quickly.

Thanks for stopping by!

Supplies:

Very Vanilla CS #101650, Soft Suede CS #115318, Beau Chateau DSP #122357
En Francais #109521, French Foliage #121166, Occasional Quotes #retired hostess
Soft Suede Marker #120973 & Pad #115657, Bashful Blue Marker #105111, Sahara Sand #105208
Big Shot #113439, Large Paper Doily Die #125592, Decorative Label Punch #120907, 5 Petal Punch #119880, Brads #119736, Satin Ribbon #124325, Dimensionals #104430, Stamping Sponges #101610, Mat Pack #105826, Paper Piercing Tool #116631, Square Punch #119865

Retro Sketch #1

2012-03-04T11:33:00.004-06:00

From my favorite color challenge, ColourQ, I give you the new Retro Sketch Challenge!

Ta-Da!

Be sure to get in from the beginning. Click on the sketch and check out the new challenge.

Supplies:

Whisper White CS #100730, Big Top Birthday DSP #122348, Tempting Torquoise CS #102067
Gnome Sweet Gnome #126537-clear, #126535-wood
StazOn Jet Black #, Real Red Marker #100052, Tempting Turquoise Marker #100058, Daffodil Delight Marker #119677, Blushing Bride Marker #119801, Basic Gray Marker #120966
Brads #119736, Dimensionals #104430

ColourQ #126

2012-03-02T07:40:00.002-06:00

The inspiration...

Before I show you the entire card, I want to explain this one a bit.

The inspiration screamed 1970's

I turned 4 in 1970 and I have vivid memories of orange shag carpet, beads hanging in doorways, avocado green accessories... these are the colors of the 70's

I went out of my normal comfort zone and selected prints that might not really work together but they sure do invoke that 1970's vibe.

The flower pattern is for the big bold flowers that were printed on everything!

The polka dots are for a dress I had in 1st grade -exactly the same pattern as the paper.

The green pattern looked so much like beads hanging from a doorway I just had to use them.

I secretly swore, as a little girl, that I would have beads hanging in every doorway when I grew up.

No beads here, but I do love to make a card that takes me back to that same feeling.

I had to finish the inside with my "beads"

Thanks for looking and be sure and check out ColourQ Challenges. They are so much fun!

Thursday....

2012-03-01T07:20:00.001-06:00

These are cute little 3x3 cards with matching envelopes.

I think they are so cute!

I made the matching envelopes with the new Diagonal Score Plate!

Supplies:

Whisper White CS 100730
Letters to Santa DSP 122349
You're My Type 125650-clear 125564-wood
StazOn Black 101406

Wednesday...Cards I Love

2012-02-29T07:12:00.000-06:00

I love this card!

I wanted a more feminine card using this stamp set.

I think the twitterpated DSP and matching bow help achieve that nicely.

Supplies:

Neutrals Card Stock 119707
Twitterpated DSP 125406
You're My Type 125650-clear, 125564-wood
StazOn Jet Black 101406
Riding Hood Red 111836
Mini Library Clips 109857
Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon 122988

Mojo Monday #230

2012-02-27T09:38:00.003-06:00

You all might get sick of You're My Type by week's end. :-)

Freshly Made Sketches #23

2012-02-26T10:26:00.003-06:00

I made this card on Friday and forgot to post.

I posted it today and forgot to link it back to Freshly Made Sketches.

I am on overload.

I got a new stamp, so I wanted a new challenge.. LOL!

I will be making a number of cards with You're My Type.

This is a great sketch and I know I will use it again.

Diagonal Score Plate

2012-02-25T10:46:00.002-06:00

I am away today with my oldest at the regional History Fair. He made it to the finals and we are off waiting for the awards to see if he will continue on to the state level.
I just got my Simply Scored Diagonal Plate yesterday and can't wait to create things. I thought this video from Donna Griffith (it was great to meet her this year at leadership) would help get you excited about this new product!

Use It UP! Friday

2012-02-24T07:00:00.000-06:00

Another Teneale Williams CASE! This woman is brilliant!

I love this set and I have offered it as an incentive to one of my downline.

She really wants it.

I figured I should show her all the beautiful things she can create with this set.

I will be sad to let it go....

But happy it will be in such capable hands:-)

you are so close, Heather!

I used:

Paper: Very Vanilla CS #101650, Baja Breeze CS #111352, Patterns DSP Stack Subtles #117152, Pear Pizzazz CS #119795

Stamps: Easter Blossom #retired

Ink: Sahara Sand #105208, Pear Pizzazz #119784, Baja Breeze #111833, Pretty in Pink #101301

Other: Stamping Sponges #101610, Basic Pearls #119247, Scallop Edge Border Punch #119882, Dimensionals #104430, Seam Binding Ribbon #120999

Thursday....

2012-02-23T06:53:00.001-06:00

This was supposed to be a clean & simple card.

While the layout is clean & simple, the dsp is very bold and it felt a little silly

calling this clean & simple.

I used:

Paper: Tempting Turquoise CS #102067, Real Red CS #102482, Whisper White CS #100730, Big Top Birthday DSP #122348

Stamps: Sprinkled Expressions #125132

Ink: Real Red Pad #103133 & Marker #100052, Tempting Turquoise Marker #100058

Other: Bakers Twine #123125, Brights Buttons #119716

Catalog Inspirations...

2012-02-22T07:14:00.000-06:00

I was looking through old catalogs looking for inspiration for current sets.

In the Spring/Summer 2009 Catalog on page 87, I saw a box that I liked.

I did not make it exactly like the one in the catalog, but it was my inspiration.

Start with a 10" x 8 3/4" base

With the 8 3/4 edge at the top of your simply scored board,

make a score line at 2" & at 6 3/4"

Turn the card stock so the 10" edge is at the top of the score board,

score at 2" & 8"

Be sure to snip along the score line & use your bone folder to create the folds

Use a 2nd piece of cardstock cut at 7" x 6 1/4"

With the 7" side at the top of your scoreboard, score at 7"

Turn the cardstock so your 6 1/4" side is at the top of the scoreboard.

Working down from the previous score line, you want to make a score line 2" long and 1/8" in from each side. This will create the lid.

Cut away the 1/8" x 2" bits at each side. This part will attach to the box base and create the lid.

Cut another piece of CS at 5" x 6 1/4"

This will be the finishing piece for the lid.

On both lid pieces you will need to create a window by removing the center portion,

leaving a 1" border all around.

Your three pieces should look like the picture above at this point.

Place good strong adhesive on the flaps on the base of the box

Attach flaps

Apply adhesive to the flap of the lid that will adhere to the base box

Attach flap to the inside of the box

Apply adhesive to the window sheet or any type of clear plastic material (it should have some strength and weight to it - not like plastic wrap or a baggie)

Attach to the top of the lid base.

Apply adhesive to the outer rim of the 2nd lid piece.

Carefully adhere to the top of the lid, you want to be sure your edges all line up.

You will have the window sheet sandwiched between the two top pieces.

There you go!

ColourQ Challenge #125

2012-02-21T13:25:00.001-06:00

I am home with a sick kiddo so today I wanted to tackle the Colour Q Challenge early.

I love the way this clean and simple card turned out!

It wasn't a card that came together quickly.

I did the flowers.

Let them sit.

Played around with them.

Hmmmmmm.

Need some white and gray....

Oh, don't forget lucky limeade....

There you go.

I do love this unexpected color combination. I love the fresh colors on clean crisp white and then grounded with basic gray.

I can't wait to see what everyone comes up with!

Click on the CQC picture above and try the challenge this week!

Trending Tuesday #21

2012-02-21T08:46:00.000-06:00

Stamp image with versamark and cover with clear embossing powder. Heat set and apply dark ink with a sponge dauber.

Wipe away excess ink from embossed image and cut out. Be sure to leave just a bit of the inked outline from the embossed image.

Mojo Monday #229

2012-02-20T08:40:00.001-06:00

I read on Mary Fish's blog that her card was in honor of Julee's impending joyous birth of twin boys, all I could think of is ...thanks for the support. My brother and sister in law have twins (babies #3 & #4) and my goodness it is a lot of work in the beginning.
I love this sketch and while my 5 panels of DSP are subtle, they are there, mounted on a mat of very vanilla.
I used:
Paper: Very Vanilla CS #101650, Attic Boutique DSP #125407, Soft Suede CS #115318
Stamps: Rue des Fleurs #125487
Ink: Sahara Sand #105208, Soft Suede #115657 & 120973, Crumb Cake #120967, So Saffron #105114, Pool Party #123002
Other: Seam Binding Ribbon #125582, Antique Brad #117273, Dimensionals #104430, Stamping Sponges #101610

ColourQ #124

2012-02-19T08:18:00.000-06:00

I find my self longing for Fall and the warmth of autumnal colors.

Lots of pinks lately and it is not a color I normally reach for.

Which is EXACTLY why I do these challenges! LOL!

I used Whisper White and stamped the clouds with craft white and adding white embossing powder.

I then sponged on Pool Party ink, wiping away any excess from the embossed clouds.

On a separate piece of white cs I stamped, embossed, and cut out additional clouds.

I added the white clouds to the card with dimensionals.

The kites were stamped and cut out and popped up on dimensionals.

I layered the card on Very Vanilla and Real Red and then onto a VV card base.

I think it is a sweet little card.

Be sure to stop by Colour Q blog every Tuesday for a new challenge.

You will be glad you did!

Step It UP! #62

2012-02-18T09:42:00.004-06:00

Step #1 CARD:

Card Base: 5 1/2" x 4 1/4"

Very Vanilla 3 7/16" x 3 1/8"

I used:

Paper: Riding Hood Red CS #111348, Very Vanilla CS #101650, Blushing Bride CS #119796

Stamps: Fresh Vintage #125117, Loving Thoughts #125845

Ink: Riding Hood Red #111836, Blushing Bride #119786

Other: Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch #119275

Step #2 CARD:

Card Base: 5 1/2" x 4 1/4"

Very Vanilla 3 7/16" x 3 1/8"

Early Espresso 4" x 3 1/4"

I used:

Paper: Riding Hood Red CS #111348, Very Vanilla CS #101650, Early Espresso CS #119686

Stamps: Fresh Vintage #125117, Loving Thoughts #125845

Ink: Riding Hood Red #111836, Blushing Bride #119786

Other: Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon #122988, Dimensionals #104430

Step #3 CARD:

Card Base: 5 1/2" x 4 1/4"

Very Vanilla 3 7/16" x 3 1/8"

Early Espresso 4 1/8" x 4" use the pinking hearts punch and cut down finished mat to 4 1/8" x 3 1/2"

I used:

Paper: Riding Hood Red CS #111348, Very Vanilla CS #101650, Early Espresso CS #119686

Stamps: Fresh Vintage #125117, Loving Thoughts #125845

Ink: Riding Hood Red #111836, Blushing Bride #119786

Other: Pleated Satin Ribbon #125570, Dimensionals #104430, Pinking Hearts Border Punch #117649, Basic Pearls #119247, Smooch Spritz Vanilla #118772

How-To Video:

Use It Up! Friday

2012-02-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

I saw this sketch all over the card world a few weeks ago. Every card I saw was very cute. I concluded that it must be a great sketch.

I love this retired DSP. My friend, Kris, gave me some of her stash and I thought it would be fun to use here. I will most likely use this layout again.

Thursday Clean & Simple

2012-02-16T00:00:00.000-06:00

I used:

Paper: Whisper White CS #100730, Early Espresso CS #199686, Letters to Santa DSP #122349 (Old Olive butterfly), Sweet Shop DSP #125408 (Island Indigo butterfly), Beyond the Garden DSP #122342 (Daffodil Delight butterfly).

Other: Scallop Trim Border Punch #118402, Ruffled Ribbon #122974, Button #119747, Linen Thread #104199, Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder #117335, Big Shot #113439, Dimensionals #104430, Beautiful Wings Embosslits #118138

Wednesday Catalog Inspiration

2012-02-15T07:27:00.002-06:00

Have you noticed this set on page 37 of the Occasions Mini Catalog?

With so many cute things packed into this catalog, it can be easy to overlook this set.

I did.

Once I noticed it, I began seeing possibilities everywhere.

In the coming weeks you will be seeing more projects using this fun set!

I used:
Paper: Island Indigo CS #122923, Lucky Limeade CS #122926, Whisper White CS #100730
Stamps: Send Me Soaring #125442
Ink: Island Indigo #122937, Lucky Limeade #122935
Other: Island Indigo Baker's Twine #125575, Mat Pack #105826, Dimensionals #104430,

Trending Tuesday #20

2012-02-14T12:00:00.000-06:00

Mojo Monday #228

2012-02-13T08:56:00.002-06:00

Any Downton Abby fans out there?

On last night's episode, Lady Grantham came down for a meal and had on a navy blue skirt and a cajun craze blouse.

I loved the color combination and knew I needed to make a card using the combination. LOL!

Today's Mojo Monday sketch was a good fit. Especially because I need a special masculine birthday card for my uncle. So while Lady Grantham was wearing this combination, I felt it was better suited (no pun intended) as a masculine card.

I used:
Paper: Night of Navy CS #100867, Cajun Craze CS #119684, Crumb Cake CS #120953
Stamps: Best Friends Forever #122807, Happiest Birthday Wishes #hostess, Tiny Tags #118592
Ink: Crumb Cake #121030, Night of Navy #102977, Early Espresso #119670
Other: Jewelry Tag Punch #117190, Houndstooth Embossing Folder #123134, Vintage Trinkets #118764, Distressing Tool #106958, Linen Thread #104199, Stamping Sponges #101610, Scallop Circle Punch #118874

ColourQ #123

2012-02-12T08:13:00.002-06:00

If you haven't tried one of these challenges yet, click on the picture above and check out the ColourQ blog. If you are needing a creative color push, you can see all of the ColourQ challenges on the sidebar. Inspiration at your fingertips!

This was not an easy combo for me. I actually made two cards. My son, gave the first one a thumbs down. So, yesterday I worked on this second card. I didn't show it to my son, in case he gave me another thumbs down. LOL!

I do like the layered detail of the flowers. There are three different layers.

I stamped the flowers in Regal Rose and Peach Parfait directly on the Whisper White base

I then cut out a bunch of flowers and adhered the next layer using glue dots,

which gave it just a teeny bit of a raised look

Lastly, I put the last layer on dimensionals.

I will use this again on another card.

The stamp set will be in the new main catalog released in June

the set is called Everything Eleanor.

Step It UP! Saturday #61

2012-02-11T08:30:00.001-06:00

These cards were inspired by a card by Carrie Gaskin. I used different colors and different stamps. I tweaked some of the details but it is clearly inspired by her card.

I had a great video to go along with it.

but it seems I am having a Charlie Brown day.

You know those days where it isn't any big thing going wrong, but every single little thing, that is a Charlie Brown day.

The video I shot earlier this week, and plays fine for me, won't upload.

It says the files are corrupted.

I didn't NOT want to post, but I can't get the video published.

Wish me better luck with the rest of my day :-)

Use It Up! Friday...

2012-02-10T08:40:00.000-06:00

On Wednesday, I told you about stumbling onto Teneale's blog, and the AMAZING work she does...

I CASED a card, just to see if I could do it.

In addition to creating beautiful cards, she finishes the inside as if it were a card front!

I didn't do it for the card on Wednesday, but when I saw this one, I just had to.

I got a new pack of my all-time favorite DSP from the clearance rack...

Pulled out one of my favorite retired stamp sets that I just can't part with....

and went to town!

This is the inside of the card

These cards are not for the faint of heart.

That spool of thread was stamped 3 different times and cut out from two types of paper

in order to get that cool looking spool.

It was fun to do, but not everyday. :-)

I think I found her blog by using google images. I will type "Stampin UP, Love Letters DSP" or something like that, and you will get images.

I am a visual person so, I will often search this way.

This week I am on the lookout for home decor projects.

Not just decor elements, but other things to do with our products to add a little something to the home.

Wish me luck!!

Thursday...Clean & Simple

2012-02-09T07:44:00.000-06:00

I made two versions of this simple card, just to show how very little it would take to step it up a bit

This is the set I often recommend for people who are just starting to stamp.

I like it because the one image comes with 3 sentiments and it is easy to play with this image to get very different looks.

I also like that by doing this monochromatic card, you can use whatever colors you have on hand.

Here are some links to my other blog posts using this set:

http://joansdailystampede.blogspot.com/2011/02/quick-card-sunday_27.html

http://joansdailystampede.blogspot.com/2010/08/step-it-up-saturday.html

http://joansdailystampede.blogspot.com/2011/02/mojo-monday-178.html

http://joansdailystampede.blogspot.com/2010/09/stamping-101.html

http://joansdailystampede.blogspot.com/2010/09/stamping-101-continued_21.html

http://joansdailystampede.blogspot.com/2010/09/stamping-101-continued.html

Wednesday....

2012-02-08T11:12:00.000-06:00

I don't blog hop very often. I don't usually have the time to go searching blogs for inspiration. I found myself doing this the other day and found an amazing artist, Teneale Williams. She is in Australia and is a Stampin UP demo.
Her cards are amazing and her entries don't really explain what or how she does it, so I had to try to CASE a couple of her cards, just for the challenge of re-creating them.
Here is today's attempt.
Coloring this was fun and I love the effect of painting the background after I colored the flowers.

Tuesday....

2012-02-07T06:38:00.003-06:00

I made 3 versions of this card and I didn't like it.

I had tried to add snow to it and it just looked like a hot mess.

This panel was discarded because of the partially inked image in the background

and I used it to test colors for the final card.

After not being happy with my other attempts,

I grabbed this one and matted it and slapped it on the card base.

I loved it.

Oh my, I love it when things happy that way!

I used:

Paper: Basic Black CS, More Mustard CS, Cajun Craze CS, Whisper White CS

Stamps: Lovely as a Tree

Ink: StazOn Black, Crumb Cake, Cajun Craze, More Mustard, So Saffron

Other: Dimensionals

Mojo Monday #227

2012-02-06T10:49:00.003-06:00

It has been awhile since I did a Mojo sketch. Monday's have been too hectic as of late.

I found myself almost caught up this week so I thought I would play.

I had been preparing to use the new simply scrappin kit from the Occasions Mini catalog when costco dropped the ball. Their printer broke and I made the 40 mile (one way) drive to pick up my $5 order of pictures. D'Oh!

Since I still don't have the printed pictures I thought about this cute bunny stamp and how they would just be perfect together.

I love that sentiment.

I do enjoy punny stamps. :-)

I used:

Simply Scrappin' Spring Fever #124006, Watercolor paper #122959, Everybunny stamp set #122707, Markers: Melon Mambo #121074, Daffodil Delight #119677, Pear Pizzazz #119801, Basic Grey #120966, Marina Mist #119679, Baja Breeze #120965, Crumb Cake #120967

Daffodil Delight Grosgrain Ribbon #120928, Basic Pearls #119247, Dimensionals #104430

Scrapbooking Sunday ...Digital (MDS)

2012-02-05T10:35:00.000-06:00

I am still learning MDS, but it is getting easier, and I am beginning to be able to do some of the things I like to do with digital scrapbooking without difficulty. It is a process. :-)

Step It UP! Saturday #60

2012-02-04T00:00:00.000-06:00

Can you believe I have made 60 of these videos???

Step #1 CARD:
Card base 4 1/4" x 5 1/2"; Vanilla mat 4 1/8" x 5 3/8"; DSP 4" x 5 1/4"
Image is 2 3/8" x 3 3/8"; DSP mat 2 1/2" x 3 1/2"

I used:

Paper: Crumb Cake CS #120953, Very Vanilla CS #101650, Watercolor Paper #122959, Everyday Enchantment DSP #126154

Stamps: Everybunny #122707

Ink: StazOn Black #101406, Pool Party #123002, Crumb Cake #120967, Poppy Parade #119801

Other: Dimensionals #104430

Step #2 CARD:
Same dimensions as card #1 except cut two DSP and then cut on the diagonal and put together as one sheet.

I used:

Paper: Crumb Cake CS #120953, Very Vanilla CS #101650, Watercolor Paper #122959, Pool Party CS #122924, Everyday Enchantment DSP #126154

Stamps: Everybunny #122707

Ink: StazOn Black #101406, Pool Party #123002, Crumb Cake #120967, Poppy Parade #119801

Other: Dimensionals #104430, Pool Party Seam Binding Ribbon #125582

Step #3 CARD:

Same dimensions as above plus a 2" strip of DSP. Add a mat with the scallop trim border punch with just a bit showing on the other side.

I used:

Paper: Crumb Cake CS #120953, Very Vanilla CS #101650, Watercolor Paper #122959, Pool Party CS #122924, Everyday Enchantment DSP #126154

Stamps: Everybunny #122707

Ink: StazOn Black #101406, Pool Party #123002, Crumb Cake #120967, Poppy Parade #119801

Other: Dimensionals #104430, Scallop Trim Border Punch #118402, Vanilla Seam Binding Ribbon #120999, Basic Pearls #119247, Square Lattice Embossing Folder #119976, Big Shot #113439,

Friday...

2012-02-03T06:26:00.003-06:00

I made two simple cards for today. I haven't used this DSP much. I am surprised because when I first saw it, I thought I would use it all the time. I think I might have an aversion to pink. Not really, but I can't figure out why I don't reach for this paper more. I made my self do two versions of this simple and versatile card.

You may see more like it in the coming weeks.

I do like to have these cards on hand.

I used:

Paper: Very Vanilla CS, Soft Suede CS, Blushing Bride CS, Beau Chateau DSP

Stamps: Perfectly Penned

Ink: Soft Suede

Other: Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Soft Suede Taffeta Ribbon, Big Shot, Glue Dots

Happy Friday Everyone!

Thursday....

2012-02-02T07:15:00.002-06:00

This was a CASE from Carrie Gaskin. Her skills make me crazy. I wish I had an ounce of the talent she has. Lucky for me, she shares what she does with us. On the original card the elements were smaller and more compact. I went with something larger because I am getting older and my eyes like something bigger. LOL!

I think it still works because the proportions are the same.

I love this card with it's unexpected color combinations and it's quirky elements.

Love it!

I used:

Paper: Soft Suede CS, Cajun Craze CS, Pool Party CS, Peach Parfait CS, Naturals Ivory CS

Stamps: Best Friends Forever, Little Friends

Ink: Soft Suede, Sahara Sand

Other: XL Oval Punch, Boho Blossom Punch, Button, Hemp Twine, Stamping Sponges, Dimensionals, Distressing Tool

CQC #122

2012-02-01T00:00:00.000-06:00

I made this card in stages....it literally took me all day.

I have missed doing these challenges. I am glad to get back to my routine.

I used:

Paper: Crumb Cake CS, Basic Black CS, Patterns DSP Stack Regal Rose, Whisper White, Regal Rose CS, Real Red CS

Stamps: Best Friends Forever, You're a Gem

Ink: Regal Rose, Real Red, Crumb Cake, Early Espresso

Other: Crumb Cake Seam Binding Ribbon, Trinket Key, Basic Pearls, Mini Silver Brads, Boho Blossom Punch, Adorning Accents Embossing Folders, Stamping Sponges, Sponge Dauber, Distressing Tool, Dimensionals

Monday.....

2012-01-30T13:20:00.001-06:00

I have a confession.

I purchased two stamp sets just so I could use this sentiment

"hangin' with my gnomies."

I CASED the layout of this card

but added the girl, the ground, and put in my favorite sentiment.

I need to find many ways to use these two sets.

I am aware that there are those who don't love the gnomes,

but the sentiments are so fun

I just couldn't resist.

I used:

Paper: Whisper White CS #100730

Stamps: Gnome Sweet Gnome #126537, Gnomenclature #127059

Ink: Real Red #100052, Pumpkin Pie #105115, Tempting Turquoise #, Soft Suede #120973, Pink Pirouette #120969, Pacific Point #120968, Daffodil Delight #119677, Lucky Limeade #123002, Melon Mambo #121074, StazOn Black #101406

Other: Simply Scored #122334, Dimensionals #104430

Scrapbooking Sunday with MDS (digital)

2012-01-29T17:47:00.001-06:00

LOL! The page is white and it blends in with my blog background.

Just know that there is a two inch white border around the big picture.

This was a very fun and quick page I made.

I added 3 new colors to my collection this weekend.

I think it is fun to scrapbook some of the little things in our lives.

It is silly but I bet my kids will love this page years after I am gone and remember how mama always had 4 or 5 of these in her purse.

Saturday...Fancy Favor

2012-01-28T00:00:00.000-06:00

Friday.... more Leadership inspiration...

2012-01-27T00:00:00.000-06:00

Shelli made these at leadership. I have a workshop tomorrow and this is the gift I will give guests who bring a friend with them to the workshop.

Isn't so cute?

I used:

Paper: Blushing Bride CS, Twitterpated DSP, First Edition DSP, Whisper White CS, Baja Breeze CS

Other: Framelits Labels Collection, Oval Punch, Adorning Accents Embossing Folders, Seam Binding Ribbon, Linen Thread, Basic Rhinestones, CeloBags Lg

Thursday Leadership Inspiration

2012-01-26T07:34:00.001-06:00

I took 100's of pictures of sample cards while at leadership. Some were obviously a lot of work.

Others were beautiful and fairly easy to reproduce. This is a sweet card. I love the colors and how easy it was to make. The original card used textured soft suede for the card base and I should have as well. That subtle detail really adds a lot to this card. The original also used an antique brad, which I was all out of so I reached into my stash and used this flower instead. It still works well, I think.

I used:

Paper: Soft Suede CS, Very Vanilla CS, Everyday Enchantment DSP

Stamps: Mixed Bunch, Apothecary Art (sentiment)

Ink: Soft Suede, Sahara Sand

Other: Blossom Punch, Crochet Ribbon, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Decorative Label Punch, Stamping Sponges, Glue Dots

Sale-A-Bration

2012-01-24T17:03:00.002-06:00

Trending Tuesday #19

2012-01-24T10:02:00.000-06:00

Make a Page Monday

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000-06:00

Okay, lets have a round of applause for me... I completed my first layout in MDS!

Woo Hoo!

It was easier than I thought.

I did have some help from Andrea in the home office.

She is fluent in both Photoshop and My Digital Studio and spent time with me helping me understand how MDS works. I am off to make another fun project from MDS.

Can't wait to show you all!

The papers are all from Sale-A-Bration.

Leadership Goodies

2012-01-22T08:57:00.001-06:00

This was my first Stampin' Up! event and I was blown away at the amount of goodies passed out.

Everyone in attendance received all of the above (except a package of brads that was just for first time attendees). Some even had additional goodies of new product (diagonal score board) and stamp sets handed out by prize patrol over the course of leadership.

Why am I showing you this?

For one, it is amazing!

Two, I hope that it might encourage some of you that want to join or those of you ready to take your business to the next level.

I hope to never miss another leadership.

Not because of the goodies (but seriously that didn't hurt :-)

but the classes were equally amazing.

Before leadership, I wasn't really sure what to do for my downline.

Today, I am ready to empower my downline to get the most of their SU business.

You might be thinking, that is a big change in a few short days,

and you are right.

That just goes to show what a powerful tool leadership can be for EVERY demonstrator.

This might end up being a lengthy post but I really want to touch on the classes I took.

First, let me tell you the theme for this year is, "My way" meaning -your way.

I couldn't be happier about this year's focus because, I really do SU ....my way.

Additionally, we want to encourage and welcome a new generation of crafters.

Which leads me to my first class:

Including a New Generation in Your Stamping Business

presented by: Amy Swartz and Paula Critchlow

This new generation falls in the 25-35 age group (generation Y) and they are a very large segment of the population.

How many of the women, age 25-35, identify themselves as creative?

13.8 MILLION

This age group tends to communicate a bit differently...

feel free to text an invite to a class or party

tweet about your favorite new product

There was a ton of great information given but I need to keep this short so I will just say

I have a much better idea of how to attract and to show this group of creative women all that Stampin' Up has to offer them.

* I love that this class was broken up into sections -the five pillars of leadership!

I love the repetition of this theme and I am glad it was my first class. Because of that emphasis and the benefits of viewing the class through the 5 pillars, I was able to frame all of the following classes around the same format even if they weren't presented that way.

My next class was:

Getting the Most from Your Title

presented by: Bonnie Thurber

For me, this class probably wasn't the best choice. I have studied what I need to do to maintain my title, and what I need to do to get to the next level.

This class would have been perfect for anyone who may have been comfortable at their level without much thought of promotion, but now want to go to the next level.

Bonnie did a good job of reaching out and sharing, making everyone feel like her friend.

As I sat in this class, I had a little internal conversation, wondering why had God led me to this class.

What was I supposed to get out of it?

I have already set my goals.

I have from the beginning.

I have quarterly goals, 6 month goals, 1 year goals, 2 year goals, and 5 year goals...

As I sat there in my own head, Bonnie said some of my favorite words ever spoken....

She was sharing about a time when she was particularly down and feeling blue.

A friend of hers must have picked up on this and told her:

You can visit pity city

but don't move into the bitter barn.

I love that.

LOVE IT!

I can see myself as an old woman telling those around me....

Thank you, Bonnie!

My next class was:

Retaining and Engaging Your Downline

presented by: Donna Griffith and Patsy Waggoner

This was a gold nugget class for me.

My empty basket is now filled with golden nuggets on the best ways for me to

celebrate, empower, unite, inspire, and communicate

with my downline.

Not only did Patsy share with us the way she empowers her downline,

but she shared with us her journey and goal setting that helped her really support and engage her downline.

With all of her wonderful information I feel ready to take on the very important task of being a helpful upline.... in my own way.

The last class I took was:

Change Anything - Book Discussion

presented by: Ellen Richardson

While I got fantastic, helpful information in all my classes, this one was my favorite.

This is a life changing book, that will have a ripple effect into your personal life, family life, and of course, your Stampin' Up business.

Ellen Richardson's genuine passion for this is so clear and engaging.

We briefly discussed the book and then we switched gears a bit and moved the general focus of change to the more specific areas of our business.

I loved our group round table discussions. This was by far the most helpful and energizing part.

The things we discussed brought me right back to my previous class of

Retaining and Engaging Your Downline.

I wish this had been a 3 hour class. And even at 3 hours it would have flown by and been a wealth of useful information and solutions.

I know in the future I will sign up for any class with Ellen Richardson.

We also had the opportunity to listen to fellow demonstrators present on a variety of topics at

Share Fair

I was only able to attend 3 of the 15 available:

My sweet upline, Dawn Griffith, talked about her online business:

and here is Dawn snapping a picture of the crowd just before she began:

The other one I popped in on was recruiting with Tami White.

I was so busy listening to her, I forgot to snap a picture.

She is so fun and energetic it is easy to see why anyone would want to join her team.

She offered some great tips for those of us that have a hard time offering the opportunity to our customers.

If you are still with me, bless you. Can you tell I didn't like Leadership at all? LOL!

Thank you for letting me go on and on.

I promise to spend the rest of today working on my regular blog projects so next week we will be back on track.

Saturday...

2012-01-21T00:00:00.000-06:00

I used:

Paper: Whisper White CS #, Twitterpated DSP #, Blushing Bride CS #

Stamps: Have a Seat #

Ink: Basic Grey #

Other: Pleated Satin Ribbon #, Antique Brad #, Dimensionals #

All Good Things Must Come to an End...

2012-01-20T21:34:00.000-06:00

Me and Meg

I thought I would be friendless at leadership

Meg befriended me online and gave me her cell

She introduced me to her sweet friends...

Meg is 1 in a million!

Georgia and me

Isn't she so cute? Cute and nice - gotta love that.

Jana also friended me online.

Who knew we would be come fast friends?

She is generous and kind and pretty funny too.

Sue, me, Judy

I LOVE these two ladies.

LOVE them!

Sue is so energetic and fantastic that I just want to squeeze her.

Judy is that perfect balance of sweetness and pure strength.

I am so blessed to have been able to share some time with them.

I never imagined I would meet so many people in 3 short days that I would want to call my friends.

Stampin' Up is an amazing place to work.

More to follow later.

I simply must tell you all about some of the classes I took at Leadership.

Friday...

2012-01-20T00:00:00.000-06:00

I used:

Paper: Twitterpated DSP #, Whisper White CS #, Basic Grey CS #

Stamps: Have a Seat #

Ink: Basic Grey #

Other: Satin Ribbon #, Antique Brads #, Dimensionals #

Rubbing Elbows with Stampin' Up! Celebs

2012-01-19T21:19:00.002-06:00

Me and Dawn Griffith (my sweet upline)

Holy smokes that is me with Shelli!!!

I have to tell a quick story...it was late afternoon things were slowing down, I made a quick call home to check on my kids. Joel, my 6 year old, answered the phone for the first time. I was very impressed with his skill in answering and was in the middle of telling him so, when I spotted Shelli alone.

I told Joel I had to go, hung up, and ran over to get a quick pic with Shelli.

I called Joel back.

He didn't care. LOL

Julie is so smart and so generous. I sat with her and Georgia, and Meg at our make & takes on Wednesday.

I need to get a picture with Georgia & Meg!

Julie was so gracious with my 1000 questions.

In case you don't know Julie, turn to the back of your catalog and you will see her pretty face there!

Thursday....

2012-01-19T00:00:00.000-06:00

I used:

Paper: Very Vanilla CS #, Lucky Limeade CS #

Stamps: Blessings from Heaven #

Ink: Lucky Limeade #

Wednesday.... LEADERSHIP!

2012-01-18T00:00:00.000-06:00

Over the next few days I will post cards I made to swap at Leadership.

Woo Hoo!

I used:

Paper: Whisper White CS #100730, Twitterpated DSP #125406, Basic Grey CS #121044

Stamps: Oval All #113790

Ink: Basic Grey #120966, Lucky Limeade #123002

Other: Satin Ribbon #124326, Scallop Oval Punch #119856, Oval Punch #119855

Trending Tuesday #18

2012-01-17T08:41:00.001-06:00

Mojo Monday #224

2012-01-16T08:57:00.003-06:00

It has been a while since I played Mojo Monday. I have missed it. I like this sketch and think there will be tons of great inspiration with this one. If you click on the sketch above it will take you directly to Mojo Monday site, and you can have a great time looking at all of the creations.

Maybe I should call today Inspiration Monday. :-)

I used:

Paper: Whisper White CS #100730, Basic Grey CS #121044, Blushing Bride CS #119796, Twitterpated DSP #125406, Patterns DSP Stack Subtles #117152

Stamps: Blessings from Heaven #123052

Ink: Basic Grey #120966, Blushing Bride #119801

Other: Scallop Circle Punch #118874, Mat Pack #105826, Pleated Satin Ribbon #125570

Colour Q Challenge #119

2012-01-15T00:00:00.000-06:00

This was a difficult color combo for me. I am pleased with the outcome. I have to say, that is what I love most about the colour Q challenge... just when I think I can't do it, I manage to make a card. And sometimes I even like them. :-)

I used:

Paper: Whisper White CS #100730, Basic Grey CS #121044, Patterns DSP Stack Subtles #117152, Domestic Goddess DSP #122355

Stamps: Field Flowers #122762

Ink: Pretty in Pink #101301, Pumpkin Pie #105216, Basic Grey #109120, Melon Mambo #115656

Other: Oval Punch #119859, Mini Library Clips #109857, Pumpkin Pie Taffeta Ribbon #119253, Dimensionals #104430

Step It UP! #59 Best Friends Forever

2012-01-14T00:00:00.000-06:00

STEP #1 CARD:

I used:

Paper: Pacific Point CS #111350, Whisper White CS #100730

Stamps: Best Friends Forever #122807, Four Frames #123442

Ink: Pacific Point #111837, Old Olive #102277 & #100079

Other: Dimensionals #104430

STEP #2 CARD:

I used:

Paper: Pacific Point CS #111350, Whisper White CS #100730, Crumb Cake CS #120953

Stamps: Best Friends Forever #122807, Four Frames #123442

Ink: Pacific Point #111837, Old Olive #102277 & #100079, Baja Breeze #111833

Other: Dimensionals #104430, Satin Ribbon #117292, Stamping Sponges #101610

STEP #3 CARD:

I used:

Paper: Pacific Point CS #111350, Whisper White CS #100730, Crumb Cake CS #120953, Old Olive CS #100702

Stamps: Best Friends Forever #122807, Four Frames #123442

Ink: Pacific Point #111837, Old Olive #102277 & #100079, Baja Breeze #111833, Sahara Sand #105208, Early Espresso #119670

Other: Dimensionals #104430, Satin Ribbon #117292, Stamping Sponges #101610, Distressing Tool #106958

Use It UP! Friday

2012-01-13T00:00:00.000-06:00

I CASED this card. I think I bought the stamp set JUST so I could make this card.

Isn't is the cutest?

I used Newsprint DSP, which along with Love Letters were my favorite DSP last year.

I was happy to see a few sheets still in my stash.

You could easily substitute Early Edition DSP and create the same card.

I used:

Paper: Crumb Cake CS #120953, Tangerine Tango CS #, Very Vanilla CS #101650, Newsprint DSP #retired

Stamps: D is for Dog #115784

Ink: Early Espresso #119670, Sahara Sand #105208, Crumb Cake #121030

Other: Satin Ribbon #retired, Mini Library Clips #109857, Ribbon #119959, Dotted Ribbon Border Punch #119275, Linen Thread #104199

Thursday Tip/Technique....

2012-01-12T00:00:00.000-06:00

Often I will have DSP with a very large print and there will be a coordinating pattern in medium or small print. I love to use these papers in the example above.

Use the large print as a background paper and then to tie it together, use the small print as part of the stamped image.

I used:

Paper: Beyond the Garden DSP #122342, Pacific Point CS #111350, Wild Wasabi CS #108641, Whisper White CS #100730

Stamps: Not So Seriously #123087, Smarty Pants #115070, Fifth Avenue Floral #113734

Ink: StazOn Black #101406, Wild Wasabi #120975, Blushing Bride #119801, Basic Black #100082, Basic Grey #120966

Other: 1 3/4" Circle Punch #119850, Button #119744

Wednesday .... Catalog Inspirations

2012-01-11T00:00:00.000-06:00

Check out page 222 in the Idea Book & Catalog.

This one is not an exact copy. I was just inspired by it and used what I had on hand.

I really like this sweet little card.

I especially like the detail on the butterfly.

I used a dauber and inked the embossed details. I think they look almost like suede.

I used:

Paper: Whisper White CS #100730, Blushing Bride CS #119796

Stamps: Always Elegant #120477, Just Believe #120453

Ink: Blushing Bride #119786, Basic Black #101179

Other: Embosslit #118138, Basic Pearls #119247, Sponge Dauber #102892

Trending Tuesday #17

2012-01-10T08:50:00.000-06:00

I used:

Paper: Wild Wasabi CS #108641, Whisper White CS #100730

Stamps: Medallion #115223, En Francais #109521, Blessings from Heaven #123052

Ink: Certainly Celery #105217, Wild Wasabi #109014, Craft White #101731

Other: Beautiful Wings Embosslit Die #118138, Pewter Embossing Powder #nla, Top Note Die #114463, White Embossing Powder #109132, Striped Grosgrain ribbon #125059, Glue dots #103683

Monday Make a Page (or two) A year in the life ...

2012-01-09T00:00:00.000-06:00

Here is how the layout will look in our album.

Two years ago I tried the traditional kit for this project.

I did a week.

Last year I was going to do the online digital version.

I did a week.

This year a digital kit was offered, and I thought I can do this.

It is non-SU but I think I could use some SU papers and stamps (digitally)

and get a cool looking SU version.

Colour Q Challenge #118

2012-01-08T00:00:00.000-06:00

I love these challenges because these are colors I would never put together. I like the challenge of creating something I could never even imagine creating!

I used:

Paper: Pool Party CS #122924, Pear Pizzazz CS #119795, Whisper White CS #100730, DSP #

Stamps: Greeting Card Kids #120633, Valentine Defined #retired

Ink: Calypso Coral #123002, Pool Party #123002, Cherry Cobbler #119681, StazOn Black #101406, Blushing Bride #119801, Crumb Cake #120967

Other: Pinking Hearts Punch #117649, Modern Label Punch #119849, Word Window Punch #119857, Decorative Label Punch #120907, Ribbon #122975, Bakers Twine #124262, Dimensionals #104430

Step It UP! Saturday #58

2012-01-07T00:00:00.001-06:00

Step #1 CARD:

I used:

Paper: Poppy Parade CS #119793, DSP #, Soft Suede CS #115318, Very Vanilla CS #101650

Stamps: Little Friends #122667, Happiest Birthday Wishes #122617-hostess

Ink: Poppy Parade #119801, Soft Suede #120973, Lucky Limeade #123002, Blushing Bride #119801, Crumb Cake #120967, Bashful Blue #105111

Other: Dimensionals #104430

Step #2 CARD:

I used:

Paper: Poppy Parade CS #119793, DSP #, Soft Suede CS #115318, Very Vanilla CS #101650

Stamps: Little Friends #122667, Happiest Birthday Wishes #122617-hostess

Ink: Poppy Parade #119801, Soft Suede #120973, Lucky Limeade #123002, Blushing Bride #119801, Crumb Cake #120967, Bashful Blue #105111

Other: Dimensionals #104430, Blender Pen #102845, Sale-a Bration Ribbon #

Step #3 CARD:

I used:

Paper: Poppy Parade CS #119793, DSP #, Soft Suede CS #115318, Very Vanilla CS #101650

Stamps: Little Friends #122667, Happiest Birthday Wishes #122617-hostess

Ink: Poppy Parade #119801, Soft Suede #120973, Lucky Limeade #123002, Blushing Bride #119801, Crumb Cake #120967, Bashful Blue #105111

Other: Dimensionals #104430, Taffeta Ribbon #122967

Use It UP! Friday

2012-01-06T00:00:00.000-06:00

I used:

Paper: Very Vanilla CS #101650, Cherry Cobbler CS #119685

Stamps: Artistic Etchings #120573, Tiny Tags #118592

Ink: Versamark #102283, Cherry Cobbler #119681

Other: Deck the Halls Designer Fabric #retired, Vintage Trinkets #118764, Jewelry Tag Punch #117190, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder #120175, Dimensionals #104430, Cherry Cobbler Embossing Powder #122949

Thursday.......Clean & Simple

2012-01-05T10:50:00.000-06:00

I used:

Paper: Whisper White CS #100730, Basic Black CS #121045, Twitterpated DSP #125406

Stamps: Blessings from Heaven #123052

Ink: Basic Black #100082, Cherry Cobbler #119681

New Online Card Club Begins in February

2012-01-04T10:08:00.001-06:00

Let me know if you want to participate.

If you are new to card club, just email me your name, contact info (addy, and phone #, email) and we will go from there. If you have already participated, I have your info, just let me know that you want to join in February.

I have had a few inquiries about the next card club so I thought I would post now and give everyone PLENTY of time to see this and decide if they want to participate.

What is an Online Card Club?

Many SU demos offer local card clubs. For the past year we have had an online card club.
If you aren't familiar with card clubs they are a group of ladies that agree to purchase $25 a month for 6 months. Each member has a turn at getting the hostess benefits. Hostess benefits are $25 in FREE product. You can use your $25 on anything in a current catalog including exclusive hostess items.

The difference between a local card club and an internet card club, there is an additional shipping charge to get the product to each member.
Each member would receive materials from me to create a 2 cards each month.
The upside of this is you can work on your projects on your own time.
I have a private blog site for you to log into and watch a video demo of the projects. You will be able to leave comments and questions to me or to other club members.

Each member signs a contract agreeing to participate for 6 months. A card club only works if everyone participates. Members agree to submit their orders to me via email so that I can place one large order to get hostess benefits. The orders come to me and I repackage them, adding your card kits and then send an invoice via paypal for the second shipping.

You are then able to log onto the blog anytime and complete your cards.

With each month I try to expose you to new products or techniques. I post a sample picture at the beginning of each month, along with a supply list. Some of the items I provide but some you will need to have in order to complete the cards as pictured. Both are indicated on the supply list.

I have had a great time with card club and I think the members have been pleased as well.

Here is a peek at one of the cards the current card club will make in January.

This month's project uses DSP, Vintage Trinkets, Jewelry Tag Punch, and Twill Tape. The kit arrives with pre-cut paper, punched paper, twill tape, a brad and safety pin (from vintage trinkets).
There are two coordinating but different cards in each months kit.

Tommy Tuesday

2012-01-03T11:10:00.000-06:00

I was so blessed to have my friend, Tom. I learned a lot from him and as I look back, I still learn from him. I haven't seen him in 15 years or so, but for 10 years he was my dear friend.

A few weeks ago I decided it was time to pull out those awful (poor quality) pictures from my past. They have been in a box for ages and I think even though the chapter might be closed, I still have wonderful memories of friends from a different time in my life.

They are worth scrapping too.

The pictures are a mess and it is a challenge to arrange them in a pleasing way- but the end result is worth it.

Do you have old memories in a box? Are you not scrapping them because they are not connected to your life now? I challenge you to pull some out and make a page.

I used:

Paper: Pear Pizzazz 12x12 CS #124338, Basic Grey 12x12 CS #124268, Riding Hood Red CS #111348, Whisper White CS #100730, Twitterpated DSP #125406

Other: Naturally Serif Decorative Strip Die #113453, Big Shot #113439, Corner Punch #119871

Monday, Monday...

2012-01-02T11:53:00.002-06:00

Are you singing... Monday, Monday, Ba-da- Ba-da-da-da, So good to me....

I made another card for this week's Colour Q Challenge.

...every other day... every other day of the week is fine....yeah .... :-)

I used:

Paper: Daffodil Delight CS #119683, Basic Black CS #121045, Whisper White CS #100730

Stamps: Perfectly Penned #122892, Nature's Place #122662

Ink: Daffodil Delight #119677, Basic Black #101179 &100082

Other: Taffeta Ribbon #retired, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder #120175, Designer Frame Embossing Folder #123130, Antique Brad #117273

Taking a few days off....

2011-12-31T09:18:00.002-06:00

I will be taking the next couple of days off. I have a card ready for Monday and will have a Trending Tuesday project ready on Tuesday, but New Years is the time we spend together as a family. My husband works at UPS so from Thanksgiving until Christmas day we see very little of him. This is my favorite time of the year. He is relaxed and happy to be home.
See you on Monday!

Thursday....

2011-12-29T15:17:00.001-06:00

I prepared a video with a product profile for today but I had to scrap it. I ordered a card keeper from the Holiday mini and I filmed myself covering it and putting it together. When I got to the end I realized I put the thing together all wrong. A new one is on the way. I do like the box and will order more. I just don't think I will cover the whole thing. I think I will keep the box white, add something behind the plate/label and cover the lid.

So instead I just got something in the mail from SU. I am fortunate enough to attend Leadership this year. This will be my first SU event and I have NO IDEA what to expect. I feel very much like the new kid in school where I don't know anyone, but I know we are all in the same school. So for my team, and for other demo's that feel as I do, I thought I would share the process. So here is what came today..

Not sure what this is for, but I like that it arrived and I have something to hold on to. I love the colors and the theme!
I know this won't interest all of you, but thank you for letting me post about this adventure!

Wednesday - Cards I Love and CQC #117

2011-12-28T08:59:00.001-06:00

I made this card BEFORE I saw this week's CQC. I lucked out and I thought it fit perfectly.

I LOVE black and white with one other color. Check out all the fantastic cards this week at http://colourq.blogspot.com/

I may enter again this week -just because I love to play with this color combination!

Trending Tuesday #16

2011-12-27T11:52:00.001-06:00

Monday Make a Page....

2011-12-26T00:00:00.000-06:00

Christmas Eve is the time when our extended family (on my side) always gather together. My folks take us out to dinner and back to their house for desserts and family time.

I try to get a picture of all the grand kids each year.

One grandchild is grown with a child of his own, but the rest are very close in age...

13, 13 in two weeks, 12, 10, 10, 9, 7, 7, 6

They are growing up so quickly.

Merry Christmas and CQC #116

2011-12-25T00:00:00.000-06:00

This is, officially, my last Christmas card of the season!

I LOVE the Colour Q Challenge this week (seems like I say that every week)

Isn't it great!

Go check out all of the fabulous creations each week

http://colourq.blogspot.com/

I have so much fun with these challenges.

If you want to expand your creativity, join one these challenges!

I used two-way glue and Dazzling Diamonds to give the glittery illusion of snow.

I love this Holiday Line Up set.

All three stamps make me laugh and I enjoy the process of coloring them.

I used a blender pen on this one.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Step It UP! Saturday

2011-12-24T07:41:00.001-06:00

Step #1 CARD:

No video today. I tried to get it done but it didn't happen. I have had 3 kids and a wild dog with a UPS working husband (a supervisor so he works as many hours as needed with no overtime)

which means.... no quiet time to make a video.

This one uses a basic black card base.

Very vanilla cut at 4 1/2" x 3 1/4"

Timeless Portrait DSP cut at 4 1/4" x 3"

Cherry Cobbler CS punched with Decorative Label Punch

Very Vanilla stamped with sentiment from Oval All (I inked just the words using basic black marker) and punched with Lg Oval Punch

Very Vanilla Seam Binding Ribbon

One Basic Rhinestone next to the sentiment

Step #2 CARD:

Cherry Cobbler card base

Basic Black CS cut at 5" x 3 3/4"

strips of Timeless Portrait cut at 1 1/2" x 3"

The strips will overlap a bit. I placed the two outer strips first and then the center on top.

It made the over lap easier for me, and I don't think the size difference is noticeable with the busy papers.

Cherry Cobbler CS punched with Decorative Label Punch

Very Vanilla stamped with sentiment from Oval All (I inked just the words using basic black marker) and punched with Lg Oval Punch

Cherry Cobbler Quilted Ribbon

Three Basic Rhinestones in the upper right corner and one more next to the sentiment.

Step #3 CARD:

Cherry Cobbler card base

Basic Black CS cut at 5 1/4" x 4"

Very Vanilla cut at 4 1/4" x 3 1/4"

strips of Timeless Portrait cut at 1 1/2" x 3"

The strips will overlap a bit. I placed the two outer strips first and then the center on top.

It made the over lap easier for me, and I don't think the size difference is noticeable with the busy papers.

Adhere the strips to the Vanilla mat and use your big shot and square lattice embossing folder to add texture to this layer

Cherry Cobbler CS punched with Decorative Label Punch

Timeless Portrait DSP punched with Scallop Oval Punch

Very Vanilla stamped with sentiment from Oval All (I inked just the words using basic black marker) and punched with Lg Oval Punch

Pop up on dimensionals over the ribbon

Cherry Cobbler Quilted Ribbon

3 silver brads in upper right corner

Vanilla, Cobbler, and two patterns in DSP punched with Jewelry Tag punch

Attach tags with silver safety pin (from Vintage Trinkets) to the knot in the ribbon.

I plan to use one version of this card for my Leadership Swaps.

Hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas. Stay safe if you are traveling.

Love and enjoy your time with family!

Use It UP! Friday ...

2011-12-23T10:16:00.001-06:00

I have a generous friend that creates these amazing scrapbooks. She has a wonderful ability of pulling papers together from all different lines/manufacturers. She often gifts me paper. This paper is SU but it was before I was purchasing DSP, so I have no idea how long ago it retired or what the name is/was.
Anyway... here is a card for Kris:

I like to see a faint image behind a sentiment. I inked up the flower from Creative Elements, stamped off, and then stamped my cut card stock.

Is anybody stamping today? :-)

Thursday .... Clean & Simple

2011-12-22T00:00:00.000-06:00

Another one for leadership. It is a simple card that would be easy to DEMO and I think the DSP really looks happy -it matched the sentiment - at least for me it does. I love this sentiment! Especially during this time of year it is good to slow down and just enjoy the moment... and just be happy,

Wednesday ....Cards I Love...

2011-12-21T08:16:00.001-06:00

I was so excited to be able to pre-order from the Occasions Mini Catalog AND earn some

Sale-a-bration items as well!

This Sale-a-bration DSP and brads I LOVE! I decided to start on my swaps for Leadership convention (this will be my first SU event and I am not sure what I am doing)

I planned out the card and started cutting paper and assembling the base of the card.

Loved the papers together....

After I did 10 or so of the bases I started on the framelits and coordinating stamp...

I put it together and thought .... ick

It didn't turn out at all like I had planned in my head.

There was no way I was making 10 of these. They were ugly.

So I had to have a plan B.

I loved the base papers and the color combinations...

it was the stamped image I hated...

not really, just the BLACK ink!

Ahhhh ..... a solution is at hand!

Behold...

Isn't it so much better when I use the correct ink color?

The point of all of this?

If you ever run into this situation where you create a card that should be stunning (at least it was in your head) take a minute to think about what bothers you, and see if it is a simple fix.

I feel lucky that I only made two of the top ones and I have 8 of the revised card.

Trending Tuesday #15

2011-12-20T00:00:00.000-06:00

Monday....

2011-12-19T00:00:00.000-06:00

This is a traditional scrapbook page I did using all SU product. I decided that I am going to go back in my past, back to those days where I took very few pictures and most of them are not very good, and scrap those memories too. I had another life before I married and had children. They were great times. I will try to scrap a traditional page once a week for the near future.
I have a friend that I used to have a challenge with every Sunday. For about a year and a half we scrapped a page or a double page layout once a week on Sunday. She has moved far away, but we discovered Skype. We scrap together now, even though she is in Virginia and I am in Texas.

Sunday....

2011-12-18T00:00:00.000-06:00

Saturday Scrapbooking & Color Q #115

2011-12-17T10:58:00.000-06:00

These pages are digital and use non-SU products.

Tag #11

2011-12-15T00:00:00.002-06:00

I made this one using Wisteria Wonder and Crumb Cake inks, on Whisper White CS. Not traditional Christmas colors, but you could use any color combinations you love. The Hello Doily background stamp is an impressive stamp -look at all that detail that is revealed after embossing and sponging ink to reveal the doily. LOVE this!

Tag #10

2011-12-14T00:00:00.000-06:00

This was a fast & simple tag with the exception of getting the mini bells on the end of the bakers twine.

This is a zero stamping tag. The Santa stamp is Letters to Santa DSP. I just cut it out and popped it up on dimensionals.

Tag #9

2011-12-13T06:36:00.000-06:00

Not very Christmassy, I know, but it was my attempt at one of "Jim Shultz" steampunk type tags.

The best part, I used a stamp set from our upcoming Occasions mini catalog, Rue Des Fleurs. The tickets are from the Attic Boutique Suite set. They are side notes and there are a number of fun things I can't wait to use.

It was fun to do something non-traditional. I just hope someone will like it enough to want it too. :-)

Tag #8

2011-12-12T00:00:00.000-06:00

I know it is very plain and simple, but I love it. The tree was stamped with Sahara Sand Craft ink and embossed with iridescent ice. After I made Saturday's tag, I made this one. I needed something simple and plain after that very busy tag. :-)

Tags #7 and Colour Q Challenge #114

2011-12-11T00:00:00.001-06:00

The inspiration picture is just so cute and colorful. This was a fun combination to work with.

I used:

Paper: Poppy Parade CS #119793, Whisper White CS #100730, Pool Party CS #122924, Silver Glitter Paper #124005

Stamps: Greeting Card Kids #120633, Bright Christmas #retired

Ink: Poppy Parade #119801, Pool Party #123002, Certainly Celery #105106, Crumb Cake #120967, Garden Green #100080, StazOn Black #101406

Other: Ruffled Ribbon #122975, Sliver Cord #retired, Mini Jingle Bells #124116, Dimensionals #104430, 1/2" circle punch #119869, 3/4" circle punch #119873, Aquapainter #103954

Tag #6

2011-12-10T00:00:00.000-06:00

One time, while on retreat, I spent 10 hours on a card. It was a nothing special card, but I was stumped. I kept at it and after so much time, all I think about that card is BLAH!
That is how I feel about this tag. I worked on it for 3 days. Not all day, of course, but way too much time. Blah. It is just too much of everything. I do like the winter wonderland banner -that is my favorite part. This was a "Jim Shultz" inspired tag. Today he might be glad I am not using his real name...LOL!

Tag #5

2011-12-09T06:43:00.000-06:00

Another "Jim Shultz" inspired tag. I posted this one today on "Use It UP! Friday" because I used some retired paper. I loved this DSP. The deer is clip art from the computer that I printed off and traced onto Very Vanilla CS. I used a retired BG stamp, Linen, to add texture. This tag I love. It was fun to make.

Tag #4

2011-12-08T07:33:00.001-06:00

I don't hate it, but I don't love it either. I figure that is what happens when you strive to make something everyday. It was fun playing with new paper and fabric from the upcoming Occasions Mini Catalog. The paper and fabric are from Twitterpated product suite. I love the new catalog and look forward to showing you more projects with some of the things I have purchased. :-)

Tag #3

2011-12-07T09:52:00.001-06:00

Another "Jim Shultz" inspired tag. My pine cones were made by using the large scallop circle punch and the XL scallop circle punch. I cut the scallop edge and glued the two together to form a larger spiral. I then wound the strip of paper around my paper piercing tool and fussed with it until I got the look I liked. The one in the foreground (closest) I just inked and wound on the paper piercing tool. The other one and crimped the scallop in half and then folded the "petal" back and then wound on the tool. I like the subtle detail it adds.
I think I may need to do a fun one for tomorrow... maybe featuring holiday line up.:-)

Edited to add: The holes at the top are made by using a 1/2" circle punch & a 3/4" circle punch.
I will try to do a video this weekend on the rosettes/pinecones ;-)

Trending Tuesday....

2011-12-06T12:16:00.001-06:00

Hey there stampers.... I have a video to go with this but due to internet issues, I have had 4 unsuccessful attempts at uploading. Hopefully, sometime this afternoon it will be here.

I am inspired by a well-known crafter that has his own line of products (so I don't think I am allowed to mention him by name...let's say is name is Jim Shultz) and does Christmas tags every year.

I used one of his tags as inspiration to create this vintage tag.

I promise to post the video as soon as my provider fixes the network issues. :-)

Tags of Christmas...

2011-12-05T07:05:00.001-06:00

I have 3 kids in 3 different schools. There are a lot of people at those schools I would like to remember at Christmas. The budget demands that they are not huge gifts.... there are 12 or so people to purchase for. I got a little something for each of them and wanted to add a very special handmade card/tag to go with each gift. So for the two weeks or so, I will share my creations with you.
Tomorrow is Trending Tuesday (I will show you a tag inspired by a well-known stamper with his own line of products. My tag will use SU only:-)

Thanks to Karen who inspired me to get going on this project and not wait until the last minute to get it done. She is sooooo good like that!!

I used:
Paper: Early Espresso CS #119686, Whisper White CS #100730, Frostwood Lodge DSP #124002
Stamps: Snow Much Fun #122562
Ink: StazOn Black #101406, Crumb Cake #120967, Marina Mist #119679, Cherry Cobbler #119681, Garden Green #100080, Early Espresso #119680
Other: Seam Binding Ribbon #120992, Mini Bells #124116, Linen Thread #104199, 1/2" circle punch #119869, 3/4" circle punch #119873, stampin sponges #101610, Basic Rhinestones #119246, Distressing Tool #106958, Dimensionals #104430

STAMPede Stampin' Challenge #3

2011-12-04T00:00:00.001-06:00

I know this is a strange color combination, but here is the inspiration picture:

and here is my take on the sketch and color challenge:

and here is Heather's:

and Kris'

Now it is your turn.... can't wait to see what you come up with!

Step It UP! Saturday #57 & Colour Q Challenge #113

2011-12-03T00:00:00.002-06:00

This week I did 3 versions of the same card using different color combinations. The color inspiration came from this week's Colour Q Challenge:

Gorgeous colors! Anyway, I hope y'all don't mind me mixing it up a bit and throwing in a color challenge with this week's Step It UP!

I used:

Paper: Sahara Sand CS #121043, Whisper White CS #100730, Night of Navy CS #100867, Marina Mist CS #119682, Bashful Blue CS #105120

Stamps: Four the Holidays #116921, Delicate Doilies #122592

Ink: Marina Mist #119668, Bashful Blue #105209, Night of Navy #102977

Other: Scallop Edge Border Punch #, Taffeta Ribbon #retired, Satin Ribbon #retired, Organza Ribbon #114319

Use It UP! Friday.... Guest Artist Heather North

2011-12-02T00:00:00.001-06:00

I got this in the mail last week and I knew I wanted to feature it here on my blog. Heather makes beautiful cards and scrapbook pages. She is also very sweet and thoughtful to remember me on my birthday! Thanks Heather for the beautiful card.

You can see Heather's other beautiful creations on her blog click HERE

Thursday . . . .

2011-12-01T00:00:00.001-06:00

I made this card.....because..... I liked it! I like that it looks very simple but it is loaded with subtle details. I love the washed out appearance of the stamped image.

Happy Birthday to my son, Samuel.

I used:

Paper: Crumb Cake CS #120953, Cherry Cobbler CS #119685, Very Vanilla CS #101650, First Edition DSP #121878

Stamps: Greeting Card Kids #120633, Four the Holidays #116921, Lovely as a Tree #115026,

Ink: Cherry Cobbler #119681, Bashful Blue #105111, Soft Suede #120973, Wild Wasabi #120975, Crumb Cake #121030, StazOn Black #101406

Other: Snow Burst EF #124096, Taffeta Ribbon #109070, Bakers Twine #123125, Dimensionals #104430

Wednesday .... Catalog Inspirations

2011-11-30T00:00:00.002-06:00

Check out page 36 in the current Idea Book & Catalog.

I used:

Paper: Wild Wasabi CS #108641, Very Vanilla CS #101650, Early Edition DSP #121878

Stamps: Welcome Christmas #120597, Artistic Etchings #120573

Ink: Wild Wasabi #109014, Cherry Cobbler #119669

Other: Extra Large Scallop Circle Punch #118874, Scallop Circle Punch #119854, Cherry Cobbler Bakers Twine #123125, Paper Piercing Tool #116631

Trending Tuesday

2011-11-29T00:00:00.002-06:00

I have misplaced my magazine. I have been meaning to pick up a new one but haven't made it to the book store. This was a card featured in the magazine using SU products. So this isn't a TRUE trending Tuesday, but I thought this card was adorable and easy to do. I don't have the magazine to tell you who the original card maker was, but she was published! :-)

I used:

Paper: Crumb Cake CS #120953, Early Espresso CS #119686, Cherry cobbler CS #119685

Stamps: Artistic Etchings #120573

Ink: Cherry Cobbler #119669

Other: Satin Ribbon #retired, Tag Punch #119876, XLg Tag Punch #119866, Trinkets #121892, Bakers Twine #123125

Advent Calendar

2011-11-28T12:55:00.000-06:00

Isn't it sooooo cute? I ordered the materials to make this in August. August! Can you believe it took me this long to sit down and tackle this project. I worked on it most of the day yesterday and a couple hours this morning. I think this would have been fun with a group of my favorite ladies.... my Austin friends. There is a bit of prep work to do and it is like making 25 little cards, but I think it is so much fun and I will pop it in a frame and have it ready for December 1st (which happens to be my son's 12th birthday!)
Here are a few close-ups.... I have a few mistakes, but I am okay with it....just adds to the charm:-)

I have thought about putting together a kit for this- what do you think? Too late for this year? Something fun to have around to work on for next year?

Colour Q Challenge #112

2011-11-27T00:00:00.002-06:00

This one was fun and I think this might be one of my favorite CQC cards. I love this stamp set (Holiday Line UP). They crack me up.

One surprise I had... when I embossed the DSP (Letters to Santa) it actually showed the white core of the paper -perfect for snowflakes. I love happy accidents.

I used:

Stamps: Holiday Line Up #111648

Paper: Cherry Cobbler CS #119685, Early Espresso CS #119686, Letters to Santa DSP #122349, Whisper White CS #100730

Ink: Cherry Cobbler #119681, Pumpkin Pie #105115, Daffodil Delight #119677, Early Espresso #119680, Blushing Bride #119801, Going Grey #retired

Other: Quilted Ribbon #124105, Cherry Cobbler Bakers Twine #123125, Mini Bells #124116, Dazzling Diamonds #102023, Dimensionals #104430, Snow Burst Embossing Folder #124096, Big Shot #113439

Step It UP! Saturday #56

2011-11-26T00:00:00.002-06:00

Step #1 CARD:

I used:

Paper: Crumb Cake CS #120953, Early Espresso CS #119686

Stamps: Come to Bethlehem #120591

Ink: Early Espresso #119670

Other: Seam Binding Ribbon #122332, Basic Rhinestones #119246, Stampin Sponges #101610

Step #2 CARD:

I used:

Paper: Crumb Cake CS #120953, Early Espresso CS #119686

Stamps: Come to Bethlehem #120591

Ink: Early Espresso #119670, Versamark #102283

Other: Seam Binding Ribbon #122332, Basic Rhinestones #119246, Stampin Sponges #101610, Embossing Powder #109129

Step #3 CARD:

I used:

Paper: Crumb Cake CS #120953, Early Espresso CS #119686

Stamps: Come to Bethlehem #120591, Natures Place #122662

Ink: Early Espresso #119670, Versamark #102283

Other: Seam Binding Ribbon #122332, Basic Rhinestones #119246, Stampin Sponges #101610, Embossing Powder #109129, Glass Glitter #120997, Multipurpose Liquid Glue #110755

TGIF.....

2011-11-25T00:00:00.001-06:00

Normally, I am not a fan of jumping right into Christmas the moment Thanksgiving ends. Thanksgiving gets the bums rush because of the money earning power of Christmas. I like Thanksgiving. It is my favorite holiday. But this card is so cute, and it is still so darn hot here, that I always like to fantasize about cold weather and white Christmases. So while we are still enjoying Thanksgiving, I tip my hate to the fantasy of a white Christmas.

I used:
Paper: Whisper White CS #100730, Sliver Glimmer Paper #124005, Baja Breeze CS #111352
Stamps: Bells & Boughs #121142
Ink: Versamark #102283
Other: Stripes Embossing Folder #123128, Embossing Powder #109131, Seam Binding Ribbon #122331, Snowflakes #2 dies #113449, Non-SU brads, Glimmer Brads #121003

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T00:00:00.002-06:00

I used:
Paper: Soft Suede CS #115318, Very Vanilla CS #101650, Spice Cake DSP #124003
Stamps: French Foliage #121166, Thankful For #retired
Ink: More Mustard #100076, Pool Party #123002, Soft Suede #120973
Other: Square Lattice Embossing Folder #119976