Scrapbooking, Sketches and Stamps... Oh My!

Sale-a-Bration has started!

2012-01-26T16:38:00.000-05:00

It's my favourite time of the Stampin' Up! year... Sale-a-Bration! For every $60.00 you spend on Stampin' Up! products, you can choose on of the items in the Sale-a-Bration flyer for FREE! You can download a pdf of the flyer by clicking HERE, and if you'd like me to mail you one, please let me know.

I created this card for my last team stamp night, and I have some more cards from my Kick-Off party to share soon too. This card uses my favourite SAB stamp set, Elementary Elegance and the Everyday Enchantment DSP. You can also get the Lucky Limeade and Calypso Coral card stock for free as part of the In Colour card stock pack.

Stamps: Elementary Elegance, Fresh Vintage
Inks: Lucky Limeade, VersaMark
Card stock: Crumb Cake, Calypso Coral, Lucky Limeade, Very Vanilla
Big Shot: Adorning Accents Edgelit, Adorning Accents TIF, Fashionable Hearts Embosslit
Other: Curly Label punch, White Stampin' Emboss powder, Everyday Enchantment DSP

January Scrapbook Class

2012-01-12T20:27:00.000-05:00

This is one of the layouts we're making this weekend at my Scrapbook Class this weekend... we also make a single 12x12 layout.

Stamps: Serene Snowflakes
Inks: VersaMark
Card stock: Marina Mist, Whisper White, Silver Glimmer paper, Basic Grey
DSP: Neutrals Paper Stack, Letters to Santa, Twitterpated
Other: Northern Frost Sizzlit Strip, Timeless Type Sizzlits, Basic Rhinestones

Happy New Year!

2012-01-05T11:33:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! It's nice to be able to breathe again, and my goal is to post more regularly again... I was creating a lot in December, but they were all for Christmas, so there's not much point sharing now.

The Occasions Mini Catalogue went live yesterday, and I'm so excited to share some of the new products with you!

You can CLICK HERE to view the online version of the Occasions Mini (Flash required)

CLICK HERE to download a pdf file of the Occasions Mini

CLICK HERE to view the products in my Online Store

You can CLICK HERE for the supply list for all the projects shown in the Occasions Mini

One of my favourite products in the Occasions Mini are the Framelits and Edgelits for the Big Shot. This card uses the Labels set, which comes with six dies in graduated sizes. One of the best things about these dies is that you can stamp your image (love that Apothecary Art coordinates with the Labels Framelits) and then cut it out with the Big Shot. This is one of the cards we'll be making next week in my Simple Cards Class (spaces still available)

Stamps: Apothecary Art, Distressed Polka Dots

Inks: Elegant Eggplant, Wisteria Wonder, Pear Pizzazz

Card stock: Crumb Cake, Lucky Limeade, Whisper White

Other: Labels Framelits, Wisteria Wonder Baker's Twine, Polka Dots TIF, Blender Pen

Online Extravaganza Starts Today!

2011-11-21T10:24:00.000-05:00

You can visit the Online Store to see all discounted products or view this PDF.

The brand new Simply Scored scoring tool and Sweet Pressed Cookie stamps are 20% off TODAY ONLY!!! Until midnight tonight, the Simply Scored is $31.16 (reg. $38.95) and the Sweet Pressed Cookie stamps are $16.76 (reg $20.95). I do have an order going in at 10:00pm tonight, so e-mail or call if you want to take advantage of these 24 hour specials (and save on shipping by adding to the group order).

All other items included in the Online Extravaganza are available at the sale prices until November 30th. Digital Downloads can only be ordered online, but all other products on sale can be ordered online or in a group order through me. I will be placing another order Wednesday November 30th, so let me know if you would like to place an order before then!

Packing Paper Treat Bag - Big Shot Class

2011-11-20T10:00:00.000-05:00

Monika Davis showed this idea at one of the Stampin' Up! Regionals not long ago, and I thought it was perfect for this time of year so we're making it in my Big Shot class this weekend! If you'd like to come and make it, I still have room in my 7pm class this evening. This pouch is perfect for a few cookies, a package of hot chocolate or some other holiday treat. It uses the paper that Stampin' Up! packs in the order boxes to keep things from moving around too much. I added a snowflake die cut with the Northern Frost Sizzlet and Big Shot, some Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding and a tag stamped with the Beautiful Season stamp set. I stamped the brown paper with the Serene Snowflakes stamp set, glued the sides together and ran them through the Paper Crimper.

Tomorrow the Online Extravaganza starts, and there will be two deals that are only available until midnight, so be sure to check out my ONLINE STORE! The promotion is named Online Extravaganza, and the easiest way for you to take advantage is by shopping in my online store, and having the order shipped right to you, but I will also be placing a group order tomorrow night. Call or e-mail me by 10pm, and I can add your order!

Snowman Spinner Card - Stepped Up Cards

2011-11-16T22:26:00.000-05:00

I saw this card on Heather Summer's blog this week, and had to recreate it for my Stepped Up Class this weekend. The snowman's head spins to make it look like he's rolling down the hill. If you'd like to make this card (and four other Stepped Up Cards) at my class this weekend, check out my Event Calendar and sign up for a class!

Stamps: Holiday Happiness, Serene Snowflakes
Inks: Baja Breeze, VersaMark
Card stock: Baja Breeze, Whisper White, Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black
Punches: 2 1/2" Circle, 1 3/4" Circle, Snowflake, Crop-a-Dile, 1" Circle, 1 1/4" Circle
Other: 3" Circle Big Shot die, White Stampin' Emboss powder, Dazzling Diamonds glitter, Signo White Gel pen, Black Stampin' Write marker, Old Olive 1/8" Taffeta ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals

Turning 2 - November Scrapbook Class

2011-11-10T00:54:00.000-05:00

This is one of the layouts we're making in this weekend's scrapbook class (still time to register!) I used the Country Club Simply Scrappin' Kit and French Foliage stamp set (along with the Just Perfect Alpha stamps and School Lines stamp for journaling). The colours are from the Country Club kit too... So Saffron, Not Quite Navy, Pear Pizzazz & Cajun Craze.

12 Weeks of Christmas - Contempo Christmas card

2011-11-06T23:09:00.001-05:00

For a supply list and instructions to make this card, check out my 12 Weeks of Christmas link above, or click HERE.

Happy Digital Scrapbooking Day! Free Downloads!

2011-11-05T09:11:00.000-04:00

Stampin' Up! is celebrating Digital Scrapbooking Day with four free (brand new) downloads! The free downloads are available until November 7th. There are two different file downloads - one for My Digital Studio and one for other programs (Photoshop Elements, Word, etc.). All you need to do is fill out the survey HERE.

You can download a pdf file showing you all that is included in these downloads by clicking HERE. Enjoy the goodies!

Wow! Free Big Shot!

2011-10-31T13:25:00.002-04:00

This post will stay at the top of my blog for this month... scroll down for newer posts!

This month, Stampin' Up! is offering an amazing incentive to join my Stampin' Up! team... you will get a free Big Shot, or $125 in free Stampin' Up! products!

This offer is good until October 31st, and if you sign up on my website (click Join Now in the left sidebar), you will be able to order your free Big Shot (or $125 in product of your choice) about an hour later! You will also get an amazing deal on the products in the Starter Kit... it would cost over $400 to get the products in the kit on a normal order through me, but you'll get them for $215 (no tax or shipping). You can also substitute a Textured Impressions Folder (my favourite way to use the Big Shot) for the Decor Elements product in your Starter Kit so you'll have something to use with your Big Shot right away! Please let me know if you'd like more details, or if you'd like some help choosing your Starter Kit contents. You can join my team just for this amazing deal or to get a discount on your future purchases. The best part is that anyone who takes advantage of this deal also has the opportunity to make money and get product for free! I welcome anyone in Canada to consider joining my team of stampers!

12 Weeks of Christmas - Week 4 - Top Note Gift Box

2011-10-23T23:17:00.001-04:00

For a supply list and instructions, click on the 12 Weeks of Christmas page above, or click HERE.

Stepped Up Class - Swing Out card

2011-10-20T21:17:00.000-04:00

Found a fun new (to me anyway) fold for a Swing Out card on Lynn Pratt's blog, and had to make my own version for this month's Stepped Up Card Class. If you'd like to come and make this card + four others, let me know!

Stamps: French Foliage, On Your Birthday
Inks: Pear Pizzazz, Cajun Craze, Always Artichoke, Crumb Cake
Card stock: Early Expresso, Whisper White
Other: Stampin' Sponges

Batty Petal Cone Treat Box - Big Shot Class

2011-10-18T19:40:00.000-04:00

I couldn't resist adding this guy to my Big Shot class this month... you can hang it as a decoration, or add a cellophane bag of treats and give it to a special someone...

I created the 'body' with the Petal Cone die, and the wings are from the Perfect Pennants die. I punched some partial circles from one edge, and ran them through the Spider Wed Textured Impressions Folder. Some Glimmer Brads make the spooky eyes, some punched bits for the fangs and eyes, and a bit of Dazzling Details for the mouth complete the bat. I still have spots in this class... we make three projects for $15.00 or a $20.00 order.

12 Weeks of Christmas - Comfort & Joy Bleached

2011-10-16T23:56:00.001-04:00

For a full supply list and instructions, check out my 12 Weeks of Christmas page!

October Scrapbook Class Layout

2011-10-13T21:15:00.000-04:00

This is one of the three layouts we're making this weekend in my Scrapbook Class (spaces still available):

I created the background with the Netting background stamp (masked off the corners with torn scrap paper), Daring Adventure and Extreme Elements. I did the journaling on a torn piece of Vellum, and cut the title letters with the Timeless Type Sizzlets from some Tangerine Tango patterned paper.

12 Weeks of Christmas - Week 2 Card - Serene Snowflakes

2011-10-09T21:56:00.000-04:00

This card is one we'll be making in my Simple Christmas Cards class next weekend (Friday & Sunday).

You can also find a complete supply list and instructions on my 12 Weeks of Christmas page (tab at the top of the page, or click HERE).

Halloween? Out on a Limb Three Ways

2011-10-05T22:08:00.000-04:00

When I went through the Holiday Mini the first time, I fell in love with the Out on a Limb stamp set... but I don't really do a lot of Halloween cards. So, I had to justify to myself that I'd be able to use it for more than just Halloween cards. Here's the stamp set, so you know what I'm talking about:

Cute, right? So this is the first card I tried...

and obviously, I decided it was spooky because I ended up making it a Halloween card! But, I changed the colours a bit (and the card base too) and came up with this one:

I think I did a better job creating the 'forest' with the branch on this one, and the colours make it a very nice, non-spooky card. Then I saw a card very similar to the one I created below, and had to copy it.

I love the colours, the embossed sections of the card (enhanced a little with lines scored with the Simply Scored tool) and the flowers on the branch! So, I think I accomplished my mission! Which is your favourite?

Twelve Weeks of Christmas - Stocking Card

2011-10-02T22:28:00.000-04:00

I'll be posting cards, tags and gift ideas on Sunday for the next 11 Sundays... You can find the supplies and instructions for this card by clicking the 12 Weeks of Christmas tab above, or just click HERE.

September Stepped Up Class - Snowman Shaker card

2011-09-15T13:40:00.000-04:00

This is one of the cards we're making this weekend in my Stepped Up Card Class... I'm featuring several new products from the Holiday Mini Catalogue and we make five cards that are a step above what I might usually create. We're making this Shaker Card (the Shaker Frames make it easy), a Smash card, and I'm showing techniques like Double Embossing and Reducing Apertures.

Stamps: Button Buddies, Fabulous Phrases
Inks: Basic Black, Baja Breeze (sponged edges)
Card stock: Baja Breeze, Marina Mist, Pool Party, Whisper White
Punches: 1/2" Circle Punch, 3/4" Circle Punch, Scallop Edge punch
Other: Silver Glimmer Paper, Neutrals Designer paper pack, Dazzling Details, Silver Glass Glitter, Window Sheet, Snowburst TIF

September Big Shot Class!

2011-09-14T23:28:00.000-04:00

This bookmark is one of the three projects we'll be making this month in my Big Shot Class this weekend. We make a card and two 3-d projects. I used the Fun Flowers die to cut flowers from card stock, Newsprint paper and fabric, then attached them all together (and to the ribbon) with some embroidery thread and one of the new Spice Cake Designer Buttons. This is very easy to make (thanks to the Big Shot) and would make a great gift or stocking stuffer.

Supplies: Cherry Cobbler wide Striped Grosgrain ribbon, Fun Flower die, Spice Cake Button, Pear Pizzazz and Cherry Cobbler c/s, First Edition DSP

September Simple Cards Class

2011-09-09T06:33:00.004-04:00

In my Simple Cards Class (spots still available), we create eight quick & easy cards (four different cards, two of each) that you can copy and make at home. I try to show easy techniques, especially if you can use things you already have. This card shows how stamping with your clear blocks can add a great look to a very simple card. I think the ruffled ribbon adds a great detail to this card too.

Stamps: Faith in Nature, Bring on the Cake, Clear Block C
Inks: Lucky Limeade, Wisteria Wonder, StazOn Jet Black
Card stock: Wisteria Wonder, Whisper White, Lucky Limeade
Other: Wisteria Wonder Ruffled Ribbon, Square Lattice TIF

September Scrapbook Class

2011-09-08T14:32:00.000-04:00

This layout is one that we'll be creating this weekend in my Scrapbook Class (spots still available). It features the Spice Cake papers and the Falling Leaves stamp set. We'll be creating our own patterned paper and cutting the title and accents with the Big Shot. You can use three 4"x4" photos, or two 4"x6" photos. The design for this layout came from twopeasinabucket.com... Nichol Magouirk posts a Scrapbook Stamping class each month, and this month's class was perfect for what I wanted to do.

Stamps: School Lines, Falling Leaves
Inks: Pool Party, Pear Pizzazz, More Mustard, Soft Suede, Crumb Cake, Early Expresso
Card stock: Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla, Pear Pizzazz, Pool Party, Soft Suede
Big Shot: Sweet Buttons embosslit, Tasteful Trim die, Two Tags die, Vintage Wallpaper Textured Impressions folder, Timeless Type Sizzlets, Billboard Decorative Strip die
Other: Neutrals Buttons, Early Expresso Bakers' Twine, Pear Pizzazz Stampin' Write Marker, Colour Spritzer, Pear Pizzazz Stitched Twill, Spice Cake DSP

Holiday Mini Starts today!

2011-09-01T09:52:00.001-04:00

It's the time of year to start planning your holiday cards, and the Holiday Mini has lots of great products to inspire you! I'm sharing the other card we made at my Holiday Mini Sneak Peek... I love the little details on this one!

I'm not sure what this fold is called... it's kind of a cross between a gate-fold card and a z-fold card. You score your 4 1/4" x 11" card base at 2", 3 3/4", 7 1/4" and 9". You fold in on the two score lines closest to the middle, and then fold the outside scores back out. I added two pieces of Whisper White c/s embossed with the new Snow Burst Textured Impressions folder to the outside panels and attached some of the new Cherry Cobbler Quilted Ribbon to the left side. I am loving the Gift Givers stamp set (stamps for all occasions, and they all fit into a punch) and the focal image is from that set. I stamped with black ink, and coloured with my Stampin' Write markers. The scallop circles are both punches, but the 2" circle is cut with the Circles #2 Big Shot die. The Dazzling Details glitter glue is new in the Holiday Mini, and I added it to the snowy bits of the focal image, as well as to the middle of each embossed snowflake on the side panels... hopefully you can see it in the picture. It's so pretty in real life!

If you want to check out the new Holiday Mini products, you can download a pdf version by clicking HERE or you can browse through my online store by clicking HERE.

Holiday Mini Sneak Peek - Falling Leaves

2011-08-28T11:05:00.000-04:00

Only four more days until the Holiday Mini goes live! That also means there are only four more days to order from the Summer Mini too... I'll have an order going in on the 31st if you want to combine and save on shipping...

This is one card we're making at my Holiday Mini Sneak Peek/Team Stamp night tomorrow... it features a new patterned paper pack Spice Cake (I love the colour combination in these papers, and used it to inspire the card). It also features two stamp sets from the mini: Gently Falling created the top stamped panel of the card, and Hand Penned Holidays for the sentiment. I created the fancy end on the sentiment piece with the Decorative Label punch, and added a pin from Vintage Trinkets with some Chantilly Crochet Trim.

August Scrapbook Class - Swing

2011-08-11T07:44:00.000-04:00

During August, I'm featuring patterned papers in my classes because of the Buy 3, Get 1 FREE! Promotion. If you buy three packs of Designer Series Papers, you'll get the fourth pack FREE! The layout below is one we're making in this months' Scrapbook Class (spots still available).

Click HERE to go to my online store to see the papers you can choose from.

This layout is simple in design, but with all the patterned papers I think it could get too busy very quickly. This layout would work nicely with one 4x6 focal photo, or with a collage like I used. I punched some butterflies from various patterned papers, and also stamped some with the Flight of the Butterfly and Butterfly Prints stamp sets. The lines for the journaling were stamped with the School Lines stamp, and I used a little Pear Pizazz stitched poly-twill ribbon as an accent. I love the Timeless Type Sizzlets for my scrapbook page titles.

August Simple Cards Class - Easy Flowers

2011-08-09T05:53:00.000-04:00

This is one of the cards we're making in this month's Simple Cards Class. I'm featuring our Designer Series Paper in this month's classes because of the Buy 3, Get 1 Free promotion.

This card uses the Pocketful of Posies DSP, as well as the new Easy Events stamp set which makes this card very easy to adapt... just use a different stamp from the set! I love the scallop trim circle from the new Perfect Pennants Big Shot die, and layered it with a 2" Baja Breeze Circle (Circles #2 die) and punched the image & sentiment with the 1 3/4" Circle punch. A little Chocolate Chip Scallop Trim ribbon is the perfect finishing touch!

If you'd like to make this card (+3 more - 2 of each), there is still time to sign up for my Simple Cards class this weekend!

Two for One - Upsy Daisy

2011-08-05T00:28:00.000-04:00

I'm sure we all have moments when a project we have in our mind doesn't turn out quite the way we planned.... this card falls in that category for me. I was getting ready for my Quickie Class, and I wanted to show Upsy Daisy (one of my old favourites that I hadn't used for a while) with the Stampin' Spots to get multiple colours for the image. Looking at the card now, it looks okay, but at the time, I really wasn't happy with it.

This is take two, and the card we made in the class. I already had the scallop circle and circle cut with my Big Shot, so I wanted to use those pieces on the new card. I added some patterned papers (Buy 3, get 1 Free for August), and was much happier with this version. Which do you like better?

Stamps: Upsy Daisy
Inks: Garden Green, More Mustard, Elegant Eggplant
Card stock: Crumb Cake, More Mustard, Naturals White
Big Shot: Scallop Circles #2 die, 3" Circle die
Other: Paisley Petals DSP, Pocketful of Posies DSP, Organza Ribbon

Team Shoebox Swap - Simply Soft

2011-08-03T15:41:00.000-04:00

I created this card for my Team Shoebox Swap in July. Our theme was Punches, so I used the Decorative Label punch to create this raised frame.

You can create the frame yourself fairly simply... start with a 4"x4" piece of card stock. On the back side, draw a line 1/2" from each edge. When you line up your Decorative Label punch (upside down so you can see through the hole), it will fit just between the lines side to side. Then you just line up the bottom edge of the label shape with the bottom line and punch. Repeat for the other three sides to complete the frame.

The Simply Soft images are stamped on a white panel behind the frame. I love this hostess set from the new Idea Book & Catalogue. If you'd like to get this stamp set for free, contact me to join a hostess club or book a stamping party with your friends.

Stamps: Simply Soft, Petite Pairs
Card stock: Lucky Limade, Daffodil Delight, Island Indigo, Whisper White
Inks: Lucky Limade, Daffodil Delight, Island Indigo
Other: Brights Buttons, White Bakers Twine, Decorative Label Punch, Basic Rhinestones

clean up time!

2011-07-31T20:54:00.000-04:00

I have lots of projects to share with you (finally got them off my camera and onto my computer), but I thought I'd share something fun with you first. I'm a spreader when I create and my table gets more than a little out of control. I decided I needed to start fresh this week, and I took some pictures to show you the before & after. I hope I'm not alone!

This is the before shot... after prepping for classes all month, making Thank You notes for orders, and mounting all my new stamp sets.

I've cleared almost everything off... I didn't go through my paper/tool holders this time. My light is also essential so I kept it on there too.

Here's the after (after some prepping for Ila's workshop last week). I'm happy to report that it looks about the same as this right now, although that might change as I make some more thank you notes, cards my MIL ordered and prep for next month's classes. It sure feels better right now to have some breathing space though!

Simple Cards Class - Wisteria Love & Care

2011-07-24T15:08:00.000-04:00

This is the third card from my July Simple Cards class. It features some new In Colours (Lucky Limade & Wisteria Wonder) as well as a hostess set from the Summer Mini catalogue, Love & Care. This set is so pretty... I used it to stamp the torn background layer as well as the focal image for the card. The sentiment is from Upsy Daisy, layered on a frame from the Four Frames stamp set.

Simple Cards Class - French Foliage

2011-07-15T23:40:00.000-04:00

This card was one we made in this month's Simple Cards class... it was so quick & easy, and I love it! French Foliage was one of my favourite stamps in last year's Holiday Mini catalogue, and I was so happy to see it again in the 2011/12 IBC!

I started with the Medium Note cards (come pre-cut and scored, with envelopes) and sponged lightly with Sahara Sand, So Saffron and Pear Pizzazz inks. Then I stamped all over with the images from French Foliage and the same inks. I also added Always Artichoke for the larger leaf. I tore a strip of First Edition DSP (LOVE this, and so glad it made it into the IBC from the Occasions Mini) and folded one side down. I glued a strip of Pear Pizzazz card stock under the fold so it peeks out. Then I stamped the sentiment (from Curly Cute) with Basic Grey ink.

Stepped Up Cards - Scallop Circle Easel

2011-07-13T22:35:00.000-04:00

This card is pretty quick & easy to put together (with help from the Big Shot) but looks pretty special because of the shape and easel style. We'll be making it in my Stepped Up Card Class this weekend. I still have some spots available on Sunday, so let me know asap if you'd like to come. You can take the Stepped Up Cards class (techniques, embellishments & fancy folds), the Big Shot Class or both!

Stamps: Four Frames, En Francais, Fabulous Phrases
Inks: Marina Mist, Cherry Cobbler
Card stock: Whisper White, Baja Breeze, Marina Mist,
Big Shot dies: Scallop Circle, Clear Circle
Other: Decorative Label punch, Paisley Petals DSP, Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding, Brads

Big Shot Class Petal Cone Takeout Box

2011-07-12T21:19:00.001-04:00

I saw instructions for this super cute (and amazingly easy) Takeout Box made from the Petal Cone die on Dawn O's blog and knew I had to share it at my first Big Shot Class this weekend! We make three projects in this class, and learn how to use the different types of dies and embossing tools. I stamped the box (before assembly) with the Fabulous Florets stamp set and added a super cute tag with the Tiny Tags stamp set and Tag Punch. There are still spots available in my Sunday Sessions if you'd like to make this project.

I run my Big Shot Class at the same time as my Stepped Up Card Class, and you can come to one class or both during one session (I know how valuable your time is, and how hard it can be to get out for even one night a month). I'll be posting one of the cards we'll be making in the Stepped Up Card class here tomorrow.

Simple Cards Class (card #1)

2011-07-08T08:05:00.012-04:00

This is a new class for me starting this month. This class is perfect for new stampers or for time limited crafters. We'll create eight quick & easy cards (two each of four designs - variety of themes and styles) that you can copy easily at home and customize with the sentiment of your choice. This class is offered during the same session as the Scrapbook Class, so you can take one or both classes during one time slot! There is still time to register for this class... click here for the info.

Since I'm waiting impatiently for my boxes of new goodies to arrive, I thought I'd use some of my old favourites for this class. This card features Pocket Silhouettes, the Beautiful Wings Embosslit and some First Edition DSP. I did sneak some new Chocolate Chip Scalloped Polka Dot ribbon though... I couldn't resist!

July Scrapbook Class - layout # 1

2011-07-07T23:04:00.000-04:00

I've changed my class format with the new Stampin' Up! year (and celebrating my 3rd anniversary as a SU! demo) and we are now creating more projects in my classes. In my scrapbook classes, we'll create three 12x12 pages. This two page layout is one that we'll be creating this weekend at my Scrapbook Class (still time to register). The classes are now $15.00 or a $20.00 order (club members can get the class for free, and downline for 1/2 price or a $15.00 order).

This layout has a very natural colour scheme (browns, greens and blues with a touch of coral) so it's perfect for outdoor pictures. I used the Paisley Petals papers, embossed the title letters with the Square Lattice Textured Impressions folder, and added a little stamping (Confetti and Noteably Ornate).

Happy New (Stampin' Up!) Year!

2011-07-06T17:05:00.001-04:00

Wowza! I can't believe it's already July 6th... these last couple weeks have been a whirlwind, and I haven't had a chance to update here. The new Idea Book & Catalogue is here (Click Here if you want to view it online), and there is an amazing special during July if you'd like to join my team (Click Here to learn more).

My BOGO Kick-Off had me very busy and was a huge success! We made this card using three of the new In Colours (Pool Party, Island Indigo and Lucky Limeade), the new stamp set "My Friend" and the new Lace Border punch (love it!). The Rock 'n Roll technique might be an oldie, but I love the way it looks with this stamp!

In addition to my Door Prize winners, I drew three $20.00 Hostess Dollar prizes from everyone who attended by BOGO over the two days. Congratulations to Pat, Ila and Karen!!! They were able to choose from exclusive hostess products or regular merchandise to spend their prize. I pity the UPS man when he has to deliver the boxes next week... ;)

Last Chance - For You Flower

2011-06-29T23:48:00.000-04:00

This card contains some products from the Summer Mini (which are also staying in the new catalogue), but the stamp I used for the sentiment is only available until June 30th.

I stamped the For You Flower stamp with VersaMark, then sprinkled a portion of the image with Melon Mambo Stampin' Emboss powder. I shook off the excess, then sprinkled with Tangerine Tango Stampin' Emboss powder. After I shook off the excess, I sprinkled the last area with Wild Wasabi Stampin' Emboss powder. After all the coloured powders were on the image, I heated them with my Heat Tool and they blended together as they melted. I punched the flower with the co-ordinating Fancy Flower punch. I created a grid of papers (all from the Beyond the Garden DSP pack). The flower was attached with Stampin' Dimensionals on top of a cardstock piece cut with the Decorative Label punch.

Last Chance - Flowers, FYI and Bella Toile

2011-06-29T01:08:00.000-04:00

This month I featured Last Chance products in my Stampin' Parties and classes. This card is from a workshop, and I created a very similar one for my Quickie Card Class yesterday.

It features three Last Chance stamps: Bella Toile (the background), A Flower for All Season and FYI (I love this layered sentiment look). It also features the Last Chance DSP Elegant Soiree (sold out) and the Designer Label punch (to created the very cute frame behind the Wide Oval punch). I pulled the colours for this card from the striped paper (Baja Breeze, Crumb Cake and Early Expresso) and then added some more colour to the frog and flowers.

Last Chance - Fresh Cuts!

2011-06-28T01:05:00.000-04:00

I made some of these cards quickly to use as my June Thank You notes to include in my order bags... The Fresh Cuts Notes are 25% off, and only available until June 30th! They coordinate very nicely with the Fresh Cuts stamp set which will also be gone after June 30th. I inked it up with some Regals Stampin' Spots (Always Artichoke, Garden Green, Elegant Eggplant and Cherry Cobbler), added a Rhinestone Brad and the pretty sentiment punched out with the Modern Label punch. I added some Cherry Cobbler card stock behind the die cut opening with Dimensionals to add a little pop. Super quick and super cute (if I do say so myself)!

Last Chance Special Card...

2011-06-14T23:37:00.000-04:00

This card is from my June Technique Class, and not only does it feature two tools (Crop-a-Dile & Crimper), but it features EIGHT Last Chance products!

The Last Chance products are in the current Idea Book & Catalogue, and they are only available until June 30th. You can see them all (and place an order) in my online store by clicking HERE. The products in italic below will all be gone after June 30th.

Stamps: Sanded (background), Leaf Lines, Define your Life, All Holidays
Inks: Sahara Sand, Poppy Parade, Always Artichoke, Soft Suede, Garden Green
Card stock: Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla
Other: Woodland Walk DSP, Brushed Silver Grommets, Early Expresso 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon
Tools: Crop-a-Dile, Paper Crimper, Table Setting Big Shot die

May Thank You Cards

2011-06-08T20:02:00.000-04:00

This is the card I added to my May orders...

It is so quick & easy thanks to the Note Cards, and the Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch. The stem, sentiment and butterfly are all from the Bold Blossoms Stamp set in the Summer Mini. I used scraps of patterned papers and card stock for the flowers and inked the edges of the stamped layer before popping it up with Stampin' Dimensionals.

Stamps: Bold Blossoms
Inks: Concord Crush, Pear Pizzazz, Peach Parfait
Card stock: Whisper White, Note Cards
Other: Bold Brights Brads, Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch

June Make, Take & Donate cards

2011-06-06T00:31:00.000-04:00

These are two of the cards we'll be making this Wednesday at the Make, Take & Donate class at Crouch Library (550 Hamilton Rd, London). All ages are welcome and you don't need to register. Space is limited to 15 people. We make three cards... you keep two and donate the third to the Ronald McDonald House. Let me know if you are interested in more details!

2011-06-02T22:09:00.000-04:00

It's your last chance to get some of the products on your Wish List... the items on the Last Chance lists will be gone when the current catalogue ends on June 30th. Wood Mount and Clear Mount stamps will be available until midnight June 30th, but Accessories (including Stampin' Around Wheels) and Definitely Decorative products are only available as supplies last. The best way to order these items is through my online store (click the word-links to get there) because inventory is always updated and you will know that your items are in stock. Your orders through the online store will ship directly to you. Some of the Last Chance items are discounted, but the sale prices don't show until you click on the item for more details. You are also welcome to e-mail or call me with an order if there are items you need before they are gone.

This card was created mostly with Simple Friendship, one of the stamps on the Last Chance List. I embossed two of the images from the set, used the small flower to repeatedly stamp on the Wild Wasabi card stock, stamped the swirls on the right side of the card, and the butterfly on the Pumpkin Pie card stock. This set has a nice assortment of images, and some sentiments too. A great all around set...

I'm going to have lots of room for new products, because I have lots of Last Chance items sitting on my shelves here asking to get used one more time! Be sure to Save the Date for my annual Buy One, Get One Free New Catalogue Kick-Off!!! It's Sunday July 3rd (1:00pm & 7:00pm) and Monday, July 4th (1:00pm & 7:00pm). You'll get to check out the new catalogue and make projects with brand new products. For every dollar you spend on merchandise from the catalogue, you'll get Liz Bucks to spend at my retired 'store'. You can also earn Liz Bucks by bringing a new friend, booking a stamping party and signing up for a club!

Stamps: Simple Friendship, Perfect Punches
Inks: VersaMark, Wild Wasabi, Melon Mambo, Tangerine Tango
Card stock: Crumb Cake, Wild Wasabi, Pumpkin Pie
Other: Stampin' Emboss powders (Melon Mambo, Wild Wasabi, Tangerine Tango), Blender Pen, Curly Label punch, Basic Rhinestones.

Embossed + embossed

2011-05-30T14:37:00.000-04:00

This was an alternate card from my May Technique Class (showing how you can get more looks from your embossing folders). The supplies I had ready could be used for this card, or another which I shared in this post.

I was very excited when I discovered that a card front can fit inside the Framed Tulips embossing folder the long skinny way and just get stripes of the embossing (instead of the whole frame like on this card). There is enough room to make them wonky like I did here. Some of my lines are debossed (pushed backwards) and some are embossed (pushed forward) for even more interest. Then I embossed some flowers from Printed Petals--30% off until tomorrow!--with the Tangerine Tango Stampin' Emboss powder. I love the way these powders show up on the dark card stocks... very striking. The sentiment is from Touch of Kindness, another stamp in the Summer Mini catalogue.

Stamps: Printed Petals, Touch of Kindness
Inks: Marina Mist, VersaMark
Card stock: Early Expresso, Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla
Other: Framed Tulips Textured Impressions Folder, Tangerine Tango Stampin' Emboss powder, 1 1/4" Circle Punch, Scallop Circle punch

Quickie Card--Fabulous Florets

2011-05-25T23:33:00.001-04:00

This might be my favourite set from the Summer Mini... Fabulous Florets!

I'm also loving the Word Play stamp set (30% off until May 31st!). It's on sale to celebrate National Scrapbooking Month, but it's defnitely not just for scrapbookers! The Beyond the Garden DSP coordinates so nicely with the Fabulous Florets stamps, and I love this colour combination from the Colour Coach (Rich Razzleberry, Pacific Point, Daffodil Delight). I added a little bling with the Basic Rhinestones, and this card was done! It was quick & easy so it's perfect for my Quickie Card Class next week (at UWO at noon, and at my place @ 4:00). You can sign up for this class on my website... just click the RSVP button and enter your info!

Selective Embossing - On the Grow

2011-05-19T22:26:00.001-04:00

This is the second card from my Technique Class last weekend:

I love the look of this non-embossed area with the stamping inside... and so easy to create with a chipboard template and Textured Impressions Folders (Petals-a-Plenty on this card). I also showcased the On the Grow stamp set and the Triple Layer Doily Punch from the Summer Mini.

Stamps: On the Grow
Inks: Bashful Blue, StazOn Jet Black, Rose Red, Sahara Sand, Daffodil Delight, Old Olive
Card stock: So Saffron, Naturals White, Rose Red, Crumb Cake
Big Shot: 3" Circle die (from the Occasions Mini, but still available), Petals A Plenty Texured Impressions Folder
Other: Brights Brads, Daffodil Delight 1/8" ribbon, Blender Pen, Doily punch, Modern Label punch, Chipboard

May Technique Class - Selective Dry Embossing

2011-05-13T16:27:00.000-04:00

This is one of the cards we're making in this weekend's Technique Class:

This card features the Framed Tulips Textured Impressions folder to make a border framing the Tangerine Tango Embossed flowers (from the Level 2 Hostess set - Love & Care).

I still have room in all classes, so let me know if you'd like to come and make this card!

Stamps: Love & Care
Inks: VersaMark, Tangerine Tango
Card stock: Crumb Cake, Early Expresso, Marina Mist, Naturals Ivory
Other: Tangerine Tango Stampin' Emboss powder, Marina Mist Taffeta Ribbon, Framed Tulips Textured Impression Folder, Scallop Oval Punch, 1 5/8 x 7/8" Oval punch

Sail Away

2011-05-09T20:24:00.000-04:00

This card is a make & take for Tracy's workshop I had on the weekend. It showcases a new single stamp (Sail Away), the new Baker's Twine, and the Grunge Rock stamp set that is 30% off during May. It's also one of the cards we'll be making (minus the Baker's Twine) at the Free Make, Take & Donate this Wednesday at Crouch Library.

Stamps: Sail Away, Grunge Rock, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Inks: Not Quite Navy, Marina Mist, Baja Breeze
Card stock: Small Note Cards, Baja Breeze, Marina Mist, Not Quite Navy
Other: Cherry Cobbler/White Baker's Twine

May Scrapbook Class - Playful Polka Dots

2011-05-04T11:24:00.000-04:00

This is the layout we're making in this month's Scrapook Class (spaces still available):

It uses the new Playful Polka Dots Simply Scrappin' Kit from the Summer Mini, which is so fresh and fun, and looks very feminine as a whole. I think I've created a fairly gender neutral layout with it, but you can use more of the pink from the kit to make your layout more girl-y.

TIME: 1:00pm or 7:00pm

COST: $5.00 or free with a $25.00 order (and for scrapbook club members)
REGISTER BY: Saturday May 7, 2011
Recommended Photo Sizes: One - 4"x4",two - 3"x3"

You are welcome to bring other sizes of photos and rearrange the layout if you'd like. This layout is very adaptable to any theme you want to create. You can choose the reverse sides of the papers, and choose a different title to suit your photos. I will also have other stamps available for you to use.

Stamps: Word Play, Grunge Rock, Fabulous Florets
Inks: Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie (Stampin' Write marker)
Card stock: Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Daffodil Delight, Whisper White
Other: Tasteful Trims Big Shot Die, 2 1/2" Circle punch, Playful Polka Dots Simply Scrappin' Kit

Summer Mini has started!

2011-05-02T16:43:00.000-04:00

The Summer Mini catalogue products are now availabele to purchase (May 1st - Aug 31st), and I have a few cards to share over the next few days. This card uses the Bold Blossoms stamp set (originally appeared in the Occasions Mini Catalogue) and the Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer punch.

I punched several flowers (using the different levels on the punch) out of various scraps of card stock, then adhered them all to a piece of Very Vanilla card stock with Two Way glue. I ran the whole piece through the Big Shot in the Square Lattice Textured Impressions folder, then mounted it on my card base (stamped with the flower and butterfly from the Bold Blossoms stamp set). I added a sentiment to finish the card.

If you do not have a copy of the Summer Mini, you can view one by clicking my link below, or you can e-mail and I'll send you one by Snail Mail (Canadians only, please).

Click HERE to view the Summer Mini online.

Strength & Hope - Summer Mini Sneak

2011-04-29T21:41:00.002-04:00

This is one of the cards we'll be making at my Summer Mini Kick-Off Party this Sunday/Monday...

It showcases the Strength & Hope stamp set, which is part of the Stampin' Up! Make a Difference campaign. $2.00 from every set sold (and $2.00 from every Strength & Hope digital kit) will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Fund (http://www.bcrfcure.org/). In addition, I will have a card kit (5 cards & envelopes with pictures and instructions) available for $10.00. I will be donating $5.00 from every card kit I sell to the Breast Cancer Society of Canada (http://www.bcsc.ca/). I will also be offering this as a class in my home at a future date. To complete the cards, you'll need the Strength & Hope stamp set (you can purchase from me, or from your Stampin' Up! Demonstrator) and a few different ink colours. I'll be posting the cards in this Class-to-Go kit in May.

I still have spaces if you'd like to come to my Kick-off Party, and I have three door prizes to give away during each time slot (one stamp set & two card kits). This will also be a Mystery Hostess event, so I'll be drawing for a Level 1 Hostess set and $20.00 in product of your choice. As a bonus, I also have an extra Four Frames stamp set to give away! If you can't make it to the party, you can still get in on the draws... for every $25.00 you spend, you'll get a ticket! Please contact me by Monday night with your order.

Stamps: Strength & Hope, Word Play (30% off until May 31st!)

Inks: StazOn Jet Black, VersaMark, Melon Mambo, Tempting Turquoise

Card stock: Pear Pizzazz, Melon Mambo, Baja Breeze, Crumb Cake

Other: Melon Mambo Stampin' Emboss powder, Basic Pearls

More swap cards...

2011-04-28T16:49:00.000-04:00

As promised, here are the rest of the cards I swapped with my downline on Monday... these ones include sneak peeks from the Summer Mini (available May 1st)!

Margaret's card features the Pretty Postage stamp set and the Postage Stamp punch.

Sherri's card features the Strength & Hope stamp set (love the way it can create this frame)!

Yvonne's card features the Sail Away single stamp and The Open Sea stamp set... I love the brayered background on this one!

Team Swap cards

2011-04-27T21:35:00.001-04:00

I had my Team Stamp night on Monday, and had lots of fun stamping with some fabulous, talented women. I showed some new products from the Summer Mini (watch for them on my blog soon), and we had a Shoebox Swap. Our theme for this month was 'Summer'. I love these swaps because we each have our own style, and I always make cards that help me try something new, or use a product in a way I wouldn't think to use it. I'll show you the cards that don't include sneak peeks of Summer Mini products today, and I'll show you the ones that do tomorrow. Thanks for another fun night ladies! You don't have to be on my team to join in the fun... our next stamping night will be at the end of June, and I'll be showing products from the new Idea Book & Catalogue!

This is Susan's card from the swap, and it features fun, bright colours (Brights Patterns DSP) and the Watercolor Trio stamp set, which I'm really hoping will be in the new catalogue in July. It was my favourite stamp set in last year's Summer Mini.

Pauline's swap card features the Scallop Trim punch, more Brights Patterns DSP, A Flower for All Seasons stamp set, and the label is from the Four Frames stamp set (Sneak Peek from the new Idea Book & Catalogue - available during April).

Nancy's card features the Awash with Flowers Stamp set, and Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder. A special thank you goes to her daughter Sebrina (not a stamper or card maker) for helping Nancy prep this card for all of us (she can only use one arm right now).

Scallop Circle Easel Card

2011-04-25T14:21:00.000-04:00

I don't have much time to post, because I'm trying to get organized for my Team Stamp Night tonight, but I thought I'd sneak on to show you this fun card... It was inspired by a card sketch challenge (posted by Susie) this week on Stampin' Connection. She wanted us to create a circular card, and I remembered seeing an easel card and thought it would work perfectly!

I created a Scallop Circle Easel card fairly simply... I folded a piece of card stock (I believe it was 4 3/4" x 9 1/2") in half, then lined up the fold on my Scallop Circle die so that 4 scallops were showing (not being cut through). I folded one side of the resulting 'card' in half again, and cut a full Scallop Cricle to attach to the bottom half of the folded Scallop Circle (hopefully you can tell in the photo how I did this). The Clear Circle die was perfect for cutting my patterned paper circle to fit inside, and I added some crinkled Taffeta Ribbon (carefully heated with my Heat Tool) and a sentiment (embossed the Four Frames image, then stamped inside with Pear Pizazz ink and the Clearly For You image and the sentiment from Fabulous Phrases) to finish off the card.

Stamps: Four Frames, Clearly for You, Fabulous Phrases
Inks: VersaMark, Cherry Cobbler, Pearl Pizzazz
Card stock: Pear Pizzazz, Whisper White
Big Shot: Scallop Circle die, Clear Circle Die
Other: Botanical Gazette DSP, Black Stampin' Emboss powder, Taffeta Ribbon, Decorative Label punch, Heat Tool

Button Birthday

2011-04-20T21:38:00.000-04:00

I love the Sweet Buttons embosslit, especially combined with the Button, Button stamp set. I added some Circle Circus too:

This is one of the cards we're making next week at my Quickie Card Class... I still have spaces available if you'd like to come! I'm very happy that the Sweet Buttons Embosslit and First Edition DSP I used on this card are on the Carryover list, and will still be available after the Occasions Mini expires April 30th.

Stamps: Button, Button, Circle Circus, Afterthoughts
Inks: Not Quite Navy, Garden Green, Cajun Craze
Card stock: Baja Breeze, Not Quite Navy, Very Vanilla, Garden Green, Cajun Craze
Other: Wide Oval punch, Decorative Label punch, Sweet Buttons Embosslit, First Edition DSP

Lots of Shimmer!

2011-04-15T00:10:00.000-04:00

This is card #2 for my Technique Class this weekend:

I'm showing different ways to add some Shimmer, and this card features the Smooch Illuminate Top Coat and Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz. I also wanted to showcase some products from the Occasions Mini (only available until April 30th). The flower was created with the Blossom Petal Punch and Build a Blossom stamp set, as well as the Fun Flowers Big Shot die. I also used the Tulip Frame Textured Impressions folder and the First Edition DSP.

Stamps: Build a Blossom, Oval All
Inks: Old Olive, Perfect Plum, Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz, Smooch Illuminate Top Coat
Card stock: Rose Red, Perfect Plum, Very Vanilla, Pear Pizzazz, Chocolate Chip
Big Shot: Tasteful Trim, Fun Flowers, Beautiful Wings Embosslit, Tulip Frame TIF
Other: Blossom Petal punch, 1 3/4"x7/8" Oval punch, Scallop Oval punch, 5/8" Neutral Brad, First Edition DSP

April Technique Class - Faux Mother of Pearl

2011-04-12T20:02:00.000-04:00

This is one of the cards we're making in this weekend's Technique Class:

It features the Faux Mother of Pearl technique with the Nature Walk and Botanical Gazette papers and the Four Frames stamp set (part of the Spring is Blossoming sneak peek promotion this month). It also features a fun fold... I'm not sure what it's called, but I think it is a variation of the Side Step card... There is still room in the class if you'd like to come! I'm showing different ways to add shimmer to your projects and we make a technique reference card with instructions on one side and samples on the back, plus two cards.

Stamps: Nature Walk, Say it Simply, Four Frames
Inks: Frost White Shimmer paint, Early Expresso, Jet Black StazOn, Marina Mist, So Saffron (marker), Pear Pizzazz (marker), Cherry Cobbler (marker)
Card stock: Pear Pizzazz, Whisper White
Other: Botanical Gazette DSP, Decorative Label punch, Basic Pearls

April Make, Take & Donate

2011-04-11T23:09:00.001-04:00

On the second Wednesday each month, I have a Make, Take and Donate class at the Crouch Library (550 Hamilton Rd) and this month we're making Easter/Mother's Day cards. This is a free class (15 spots available) for all ages, and we make three quick & easy cards. You choose two to keep and donate the third to the Ronald McDonald House. Come and check it out!

Stamps: Fancy Flowers, All Holidays
Inks: Blushing Bride, Peach Parfait, Certainly Celery, Wild Wasabi, Regal Rose, Tangerine Tango, Chocolate Chip
Card stock: Whisper White, Bermuda Bay (retired)

More MDS... Hybrid Florets

2011-04-08T22:38:00.000-04:00

This is a hybrid card (with a sneak peek at the Summer Mini).

I created the centre panel (white) in My Digital Studio with the Fabulous Florets Brush Stamps download (available May 1st) because my pre-order hasn't arrived, and I wanted to play! I created a full sheet with eight sentiments and the flowers and leaves stamped strategically (to look random) all over. I printed it out on Whisper White card stock, cut it apart into eight pieces and then created the rest of the card with traditional supplies. The design came from sketch #1 in the new Card Maps magazine/idea book. You can see my full sheet that I created in MDS below:

Stamps: Fabulous Florets (digital version)

Inks (in MDS): Concord Crush, Tangerine Tango, Daffodil Delight, Pear Pizzazz

Card stock: Whisper White, Concord Crush, Daffodil Delight, Crumb Cake, Tangerine Tango (textured)

Other: Pear Pizzazz Twill ribbon, My Digital Studio, Scallop Trim border punch

Playing with MDS...

2011-04-07T22:33:00.000-04:00

I love creating with stamps, papers and glue, but I've been tinkering with My Digital Studio lately and I have to admit I'm liking what I'm creating with it too... My favourite is to create a piece to go on a tradtional card (especially if I don't have the stamp set, but want to use a certain image or sentiment) and then add other elements and embellishments. This card was created totally in My Digital Studio, and I love the way it turned out! I have to admit it did take me quite a while... the flower images (from Watercolor Trio - my favourite set in the last Summer Mini) can only be stamped in one colour, and I really wanted the leaves green and the flowers to be pretty colours. It took me a while, but I figured out a way to do it! I wrote out instructions on the My Digital Studio website: http://mydigitalstudio.net/forum/topics/using-multiple-colors-on-a-1 if you're interested...

As I posted, I realized that I've used papers that are only available to demonstrators right now (papers from the Strength & Hope kit - will be available May 1st). Everything else is available now in my online store: Digital Downloads

Downloads: Botanical Gazette DSP, Watercolour Trio Stamp Brushes, Seam Binding II Pack, Strength & Hope kit, Sweet Details Stamp Brush Kit, "punches" used come with My Digital Studio

"Happy" - April's Scrapbook Class

2011-04-06T17:19:00.000-04:00

This is the layout we'll be creating in April's Scrapbook Class (this Sunday):

I love the way it turned out! I used some brand new products from the up-coming catalogue that are available this month as a sneak peek: Paisley Petals papers and the Four Frames stamp set. With this peek at the new catalogue, I'm so excited to see what else is new, because I LOVE these! The Four Frames stamp set co-ordinate with my favourite punch, the Decorative Label. I cut them in half to create the pennant title (not what I had planned when I started, but I love the way it looks). In case you're wondering... that happy girl in the photos is me (30 or so years ago).

If you like the look of these products, you can get them during April too! After April, they will be unavailable until the new catalogue goes live July 1st. Find all the info by clicking HERE. Let me know if you'd like to come and make this layout in one of my classes this Sunday.

Stamps: Four Frames, Nature Walk, Notes & Details
Inks: Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive, Marina Mist, Crumb Cake, Early Expresso (marker)
Card stock: Crumb Cake, Marina Mist, Cherry Cobbler
Other: Paisley Petals DSP, Billboard sizzlet, Decorative Label punch, Neutrals Button, Dotted Scallop Ribbon punch

Last one... Punch Bunch & Ice Cream Parlor

2011-03-31T21:19:00.001-04:00

Last day of Sale-a-Bration! I hope you took advantage and got all the free stamps you wanted!

I created this window card featuring the owl from Punch Bunch and the Ice Cream Parlor DSP & ribbon. The owl peeks through the window at the bottom (check out the inside below):

Stamps: Punch Bunch, Say it Simply

Inks: Old Olive, Pacific Point

Card stock: Pear Pizazz, Whisper White, Garden Green

Punches: 1 3/8" Square, Two-Step Bird, Two-Step Owl, Modern Label

Other: Ice Cream Parlor DSP, Ice Cream Parlor ribbon, Brights Brads

Flower for All Seasons

2011-03-30T22:08:00.000-04:00

This card features Flower For All Seasons, one of the main catalogue Sale-a-Bration choices. It's a cute little set with four different flower images.

I stamped the flower image on Glossy White cardstock and coloured it with Stampin' Write Markers. I punched out the image and mounted it on a Scallop Circle. I created the banner by punching one end of a cardstock strip with the corner of a square punch. I love the Woodland Walk papers, and just inked the edges before adding them to my card.

Stamps: Flower for All Seasons, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Inks: Chocolate Chip, Jet Black StazOn
Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Glossy White, Wild Wasabi, Naturals White
SW Markers: Poppy Parade, Peach Parfait, Pear Pizzazz, So Saffron, Soft Suede
Punches: Corner Rounder, 1 3/8" Circle, 1 1/4" Square, 1 3/4" Scallop Circle
Other: Woodland Walk DSP

My favourite SAB stamps...

2011-03-29T22:07:00.000-04:00

This card features my favourite Sale-a-Bration set this year... Bliss.

I stamped the butterfly with Melon Mambo craft ink and embossed with clear embossing powder before stamping the swirly image over top. I love the First Edition DSP because it is so neutral and can be used with any colours and inked to add a little extra. The Tasteful Trims Big Shot die was in the Holiday Mini, and is currently on the Carry Over list (and still available to purchase). The yellow label in the top corner is a sneak peek of the Four Frames stamp set that will be in the next catalogue (July), but is available for purchase during April (and you can get it free with a qualifying party). All the stamps co-ordinate with my favourite punch--Decorative Label.

Hope you like my card! If you want a Bliss stamp set of your own, it's not too late... you can get it for free until March 31st!

Three days left...

2011-03-28T23:32:00.001-04:00

Only three days left to get your free stamps! Sale-a-Bration ends March 31st, and I'll be showcasing a card each day, using products you can get for free with a $60.00 purchase. This card uses Sweet Summer (perfect for colouring with the Blender Pen) as well as the Ice Cream Parlor DSP (also comes with cardstock stickers).

You can contact me by e-mail or phone if you'd like me to add your order to my group order going in Thursday afternoon, or you can order online directly on my website: http://www.lizgoldhawk.stampinup.net/

Stamps: Sweet Summer, Curly Cute
Inks: Rose Red, So Saffron, Old Olive, Tempting Turquoise, Soft Suede
Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Small Note Cards
Other: Blender Pen, Ice Cream Parlor DSP, Brights Brads, Basic Rhinestone, Basic Pearl

March Technique Class - Retiform Etchings

2011-03-18T12:01:00.000-04:00

This is the second card we're making this weekend at my Technique Class (I have a few spots left in my Sunday classes):

Stamps: Artistic Etchings
Inks: Soft Suede, So Saffron, Riding Hood Red, Early Expresso
Cardstock: Naturals White, Glossy White, Soft Suede
Other: Gold Stampin' Emboss powder, Crumb Cake Seam Binding, Top Note Die, Vintage Wallpaper Textured Impressions Folder

March Technique Class - Collage Grid

2011-03-16T23:07:00.001-04:00

I have to admit that collage/vintage isn't really my usual style, but I love this technique that makes it really easy to get the look, but still feels clean & simple to me. This is one of the cards we're making in my Technique Class this weekend.

Stamps: Because I Care, Fabulous Phrases, Nature Walk, Music wheel

Inks: Wild Wasabi, Baja Breeze, Pear Pizzazz

Cardstock: Pear Pizzazz, Baja Breeze, Naturals White

Other: Basic Rhinestones

Scrapbook Class layout - What I love about You

2011-03-10T23:06:00.001-05:00

This is the scrapbook page we're creating at this month's scrapbook class this Sunday, March 13th.

This layout is very adaptable to other themes, and I will have other stamps available for you to use. There are two class times available: 1:00pm & 7:00pm. If you'd like to come and play, this class is $5.00 or free for club members or with a $25.00 order. Please contact me for more details and to register.

Stamps: Just Believe, Extreme Dirt Bike, I {Heart} Hearts, Sweet Shoppe Alpha, Just Perfect Alpha, Calender Alpha, Broadsheet Alpha, Jumble Alpha, Extreme Elements, Paradise, Notes & Details

Inks: Cherry Cobbler, Soft Suede, Early Expresso, Crumb Cake, Old Olive, Not Quite Navy, Pumpkin Pie

Cardstock: Crumb Cake (textured), Soft Suede, Old Olive, Cherry Cobbler, Pumpkin Pie, Naturals Ivory

Other: Clear Stampin' Emboss powder, Stampin' Sponges

Fast & Fun Friday - Clearly for You

2011-03-04T15:22:00.000-05:00

On Fast & Fun Fridays, I share something quick & easy to make.

This is a 3x3 card I CASE'd from the Occasions Mini Catalogue (pg 29) for my Team Shoebox Swap this week. I did change the colours a bit, and I inked edges instead of adding another layer of cardstock. The stamps on this card are all from the Clearly for You stamp set, and the Dotted Scallop Ribbon punch is the perfect detail for this card. A button from the Neutrals pack with some embroidery thread is just the right finishing touch.

Stamps: Clearly for You
Inks: Perfect Plum, Rose Red, Baja Breeze
Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Perfect Plum, Crumb Cake
Other: Neutrals Buttons, Dotted Scallop Ribbon punch

Mini Monday - Birthday Cupcakes

2011-02-28T22:40:00.000-05:00

On Mini Mondays, I share a project made with items from the current Mini Catalogue...

Today I'm sharing a card that does use some products from the Occasions Mini (Create a Cupcake stamp set and Build a Cupcake punch), and also some Sale-a-Bration Products which you can get for free with a $60.00 purchase until March 31st (Punch Bunch stamp & Ice Cream Parlor DSP). I thought this card was appropriate for today, since I enjoyed a yummy birthday cupcake to celebrate today! We made this card at my lunch hour card class @ UWO today.

Stamps: Build a Cupcake, Punch Punch
Inks: Melon Mambo, Soft Suede, Old Olive
Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Naturals White, Daffodil Delight, Old Olive, Blushing Bride
Punches: Scallop Square, Build a Cupcake
Other: Ice Cream Parlor DSP

Sketchy Sunday #105

2011-02-27T15:18:00.000-05:00

I have a card sketch this week, and it's a good one to use up some scraps of patterned paper, but you can also stamp images to create the row of 'blocks' on the sketch.

Here is my card... I actually made this a one layer card by masking the two pink flowers and stamping the purple flower on top. I used my Blender Pen to colour in some of the flower areas. The outline was added with a Stampin' Write marker and a ruler (after I stamped my sentiment).

Stamps: Fifth Avenue Floral, Say it Simply
Inks: Perfect Plum, Rose Red, Pretty in Pink
Cardstock: Whisper White Note cards
Other: Blender Pen, Perfect Plum Stampin' Write marker

Try it Thursday - Masking

2011-02-24T07:33:00.000-05:00

On Thursdays, I share something for you to try.

Masking is a basic technique that you don't need any special supplies for, but it can create a great effect. For this card, I cut a piece of paper (computer or lined - you want thin paper for this) to 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" so it was slightly bigger than the paper I was stamping on. I folded it in half, then tore a piece out of the middle along the fold. I stuck it onto my Whisper White cardstock (3 3/4" x 5") with temporary adhesive and sponged inside the torn hole with River Rock ink. I stamped over the sponging (keeping the mask on) with my En Francais background stamp and River Rock ink. Then I took the mask off and stamped the flower image from Just Believe with Riding Hood Red ink. The sentiment is from Something to Celebrate (hostess set) and I tied a piece of Baja Breeze Seam Binding around the bottom of the stamped panel. Some Baja Breeze cardstock frames the stamped panel on my card. I hope you give masking a try!

Try It Thursday - Watercolor Wonder Crayons

2011-02-17T22:59:00.000-05:00

On Try it Thursdays, I try something new, and invite you to try too...

This is the second card we're making in my Technique Class this weekend:

I coloured with various Watercolor Wonder Crayons (more than one colour on most of the flowers) directly on the rubber part of the stamp. Then I misted with water, and stamped it onto Naturals White cardstock. I love the Framed Tulips Embossing Folder, and after I embossed the Melon Mambo cardstock, I gently rubbed my Whisper White ink pad over the raised areas.

Stamps: Upsy Daisy, Something to Celebrate

Inks: Melon Mambo, Whisper White craft ink

Cardstock: Naturals White, Melon Mambo, Crumb Cake, Rich Razzleberry (textured)

Other: Elegant Soiree DSP, Metallic Brads, Framed Tulips TIF, Brights Watercolor Wonder Crayons

Whatever Wednesday - February Technique Card

2011-02-16T20:44:00.001-05:00

On Whatever Wednesdays, I share whatever is inspiring me, and hope you'll be inspired as well.

This weekend is my monthly Technique Class, and I was inspired to use my Watercolor Wonder crayons. They are great for water colouring, but there are a few different ways to use them, so I thought I'd showcase them this month. On this card I used another inspiration - my new Sweet Summer stamp set that I got for free during Sale-a-Bration (you can too!). I roughly coloured with the Watercolor Wonder crayons, then blended with my VersaMarker. Because I used the VersaMarker, I could then emboss my coloured images using Clear Stampin' Emboss powder. It's hard to see in the picture (maybe click on it to make it bigger), but the images are shiny and very pretty in real life.

If you'd like to make this card (plus one other and a technique reference card) be sure to register for one of my Technique Classes this weekend... I have three times available.

Stamps: Sweet Summer, Define your Life, Silhouette Sentiments
Inks: Pretty in Pink, StazOn Jet Black, Rich Razzleberry
Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Pink Pirouette, Naturals White
Other: Brights Patterns DSP pack, Brights Watercolor Wonder Crayons, Neutrals Watercolor Wonder Craysons, VersaMarker, Clear Stampin' Emboss powder, Brights Buttons, Linen Thread.

Mini Monday - Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T23:53:00.000-05:00

On Mini Monday's, I share a project featuring products in the current Mini Catalogue.

Happy Valentine's Day! I have one more Valentine card to share with you today... I created this one for a private class, and it uses my favourite Valentine Stamp Set (this year): Valentine Defined. The design came from a card sketch created by Amanda Corbet.

I also wanted to share a Valentine I created in My Digital Studio for Morgan to give out to her classmates today. Morgan chose all the elements and their placement, and I think she did a great job!

Supplies (for card)
Stamps: Valentine Defined
Inks: Rose Red, Regal Rose
Cardstock: Pretty in Pink, Naturals White, Melon Mambo, Pink Pirouette
Punches: 2" x 1 3/8" Oval, Decorative Label, Pinking Hearts Border
Other: Paper Piercer & Mat Pack

Sale-a-Bration Birthday!

2011-02-10T18:39:00.000-05:00

The Ice Cream Parlor DSP & Accents (available for FREE during Sale-a-Bration) are so bright and happy! They are perfect for birthday layouts, so I'm using them for my Scrapbook Class this Sunday (spaces still available). Some of the strips of paper and cardstock are popped up for dimension, and I also used the decorative sticker strips. The journaling cardstock and title tag were both created with the Table Settings Big Shot die. The Ice Cream Parlor Ribbon and Buttons pack would have embellished this layout perfectly... but I made a mistake and didn't get them in time for this class. I used some Daffodil Delight Satin Ribbon instead...

Cardstock: Whisper White, Peach Parfait, Daffodil Delight, Tempting Turquoise, Brilliant Blue, Old Olive, Basic Black
Other: Table Settings Big Shot die, Scallop Trim Border punch, Scallop Border punch, Timeless Type Sizzlets, Ice Cream Parlor DSP & Accents.

Mini Monday - Eat Chocolate!

2011-02-07T21:52:00.000-05:00

On Mini Mondays, I share a project created with products from the current mini catalogue.

Today's card was inspired by a card sketch on Stampin' Connection created by Amanda Corbet... and I used quite a few goodies from the Occasions Mini, so it's perfect to share today. The Eat Chocolate stamp set spoke to me as soon as I saw it... apparantly I not only crave chocolate, but I crave stamp sets that showcase chocolate! I used one stamp in the set to create my background, and another is the focal image and sentiment. I also used Melon Mambo PomPom trim as an accent. I'm so glad that the 2 3/8" Scallop Circle punch has been fixed and is now available to order again. The Decorative Label punch and Tasteful Trim die from the Holiday Mini are still available to purchase (although the punch is backordered right now).

Stamps: Eat Chocolate

Inks: Regal Rose, Early Expresso

Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Melon Mambo (distressed and then separated to get the suede-like finish), Very Vanilla, Early Expresso, Pink Pirouette

Punches: 1 3/4" Circle, 2 3/8" Scallop Circle, Decorative Label

Other: Melon Mambo pompom trim, First Edition DSP, Tasteful Trim Big Shot die

Fast & Fun Friday

2011-02-04T13:14:00.000-05:00

Thanks to the Big Shot, this is a fast & fun card...

This card is 5 1/4" square (to fit in our medium square envelopes) made from Crumb Cake cardstock. I used several Big Shot dies to create this card. The flowers were cut out of First Edition DSP with the Blossom Party die. I inked the edges with Melon Mambo ink and Daffodil Delight inks and used a Vintage Brad as the centre. The 'quilted' panel was created by layering a piece of Pacific Point cardstock cut with the Lattice die over a square of Ice Cream Parlor Sale-a-Bration DSP. That was adhered to a square of Old Olive cardstock, and then I ran it through my Petals-a-Plenty embossing folder. It was then adhered onto a piece of Melon Mambo cardstock cut with the Scallop Square die. My sentiment from Curly Cute was stamped onto a strip of Blushing Bride cardstock and adhered over the quilt before I added my flower with Stampin' Dimensionals.

Sketchy Sunday #104

2011-01-30T21:34:00.000-05:00

I have a card sketch to inspire you this week... it's also a past Card Sketch Challenge on Stampin' Connection (#51) for any demonstrators who want to play along...

I need to get some Valentines made, so I adapted the sketch a bit to work with hearts (from I {Heart} Hearts and Valentine Defined - new in the Occasions Mini). I also used some of the amazing Glimmer Paper... I've got my fingers crossed that this will be coming out in new colours in the big catalogue this summer.

If you play along, I'd love to see... link me up in the comments (or in the message board thread at Stampin' Connection).

Stamps: Valentine Defined, I {Heart} Hearts

Inks: Cherry Cobbler

Cardstock: Riding Hood Red, Naturals White

Punches: Heart to Heart, Lg Heart, Owl Punch (small hearts on focal image), Pinking Hearts Border

Other: Red Glimmer Paper, Neutrals Patterns DSP (Basic Grey)

Sale-a-Bration Birthday Cupcakes

2011-01-27T22:16:00.001-05:00

This is one of the projects we made last weekend at my Sale-a-Bration Kick-off. I love the colours and patterns in the Ice Cream Parlor papers and accents. The are so bright and happy and perfect for a birthday card. Shelli's Creative Challenge this month was to use or try something new... which is really no challenge to me. I love playing with my new 'toys' and I had to cut into the papers and break in the new Build a Cupcake punch as soon as possible!

This card is 3x3, and I also used the Create A Cupcake stamp set and Build a Cupcake Punch.

Stamps: Create a Cupcake
Inks: Crumb Cake, Basic Grey
Cardstock: Old Olive, Daffodil Delight (textured), Naturals White
Punches: Build a Cupcake, Scallop Circle, 1 3/8" Circle,
Other: Ice Cream Parlor DSP

Sale-a-Bration starts today!!!

2011-01-25T06:00:00.001-05:00

My favourite time of the Stampin' Up! year is here! From now until March 31st, you can get free products with your orders! This card uses my favourite set out of all the free products we can choose from. It's called Bliss, and we made this card at my team meeting at the end of December.

During Sale-a-Bration, you can choose from over 70 stamp sets and products (papers, embellishments, chalkboard element, digital content CD) to get free with every $60.00 you spend. You can shop online HERE and have it shipped right to your house, or I can place the order for you if you phone or e-mail me.

If you would like to host a stamping party with your friends and family, you can get an additional Sale-a-Bration item with a $395 party.

If you would like to join my team of stampers and get a discount on your purchases, make a little (or more) spending money, this is the perfect time to join Stampin' Up! The Starter Kit (over $350 in product value) is 15% off ($182.50 - no tax or shipping) and you get an extra product bundle for free! It includes a Simply Sent card kit and stamp set, a punch and a Colour Coach. Please let me know if you have any questions, or would like to join my team.

My card is a CASE of this beautiful card made by Kelly. I stamped some of the images on Cardstock Vellum, and some are underneath on the Naturals White card base. The vellum is embossed with the Elegant Bouquet Textured Impressions Folder. Some Rich Razzleberry Satin ribbon hides the adhesive under the vellum.

Stamps: Bliss, Fabulous Phrases (I'm having fun finding different combinations to use with the Bliss sentiment)

Inks: Rich Razzleberry

Cardstock: Naturals White, Cardstock Vellum

Other: Elegant Bouquet TIF, Rich Razzleberry Stampin' Write marker, Rich Razzleberry Satin Ribbon

Game prizes... chocolate and tea!

2011-01-24T15:01:00.001-05:00

I had a lot of fun yesterday with my Sale-a-Bration Kick-Off Party (part 2 is tonight at 7 - I have two more packets prepped if anyone wants in on the fun). I thought I'd share the prizes I made for the games we played... they were fun little gifts that were quick and easy to make. This was my first time making these projects, so hopefully they qualify for Shelli's Creative Challenge this month (Try or use something new).

These tea bag holders are made with the Lattice Big Shot Die. I folded a piece of cardstock (7"x3" if I'm remembering correctly - folded at the 3 1/2" mark). I placed it on the Lattice Die with the folded edge away from the cutting edge (so it will stay connected). I tied the top (open) corners with some 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, and slipped a teabag insde. The stamps are from the Morning Cup stamp set.

This box was created with the Box #2 die. I used the Tasteful Trim die to cut accent strips from the Ice Cream Parlor papers (you can get these free during Sale-a-Bration). The stamp is from the Eat Chocolate stamp set, and the box had some chocolates in it (of course).

Bliss Joy Fold - You're Invited!

2011-01-19T22:31:00.004-05:00

This weekend is my Sale-a-Bration Kick-Off Party, and you're invited! We're making two projects featuring new Sale-a-Bration and Occasions Mini Catalogue products. This is one of the cards we're making. It's a Joy Fold card, so it's a little fancier than a regular 5 1/2"x 4 1/4" card, but it it's easy to make, and still fits in a regular envelope. I used new goodies on this one (Tulip Border Textured Impressions Folder, Bliss stamp set and Botanical Gazette DSP) to participate in Shelli's Creative Challenge this month...

I'm giving away four stamp sets this weekend, and $20.00 in product of your choice! If you can't make it, but still want in on the grand prize draws (a Level 1 hostess set, a Sale-a-Bration set or $20.00 in product) you can get a ballot for every $25.00 in product you order (please phone or e-mail me with your order by Monday, Jan. 24th @ 9:00pm). The order will be going in on the 25th, so if you order $60.00 in product, you'll get a free Sale-a-Bration set of your choice!

My Sale-a-Bration Kick-Off party is a free event, and I have games, prizes, snacks and stamping planned. New and experienced stampers are welcome. Bring a new friend, and you'll both get a gift from me! RSVP by Friday, January 21st. Two dates for your convenience: Sunday, January 23rd @ 1:00pm and Monday, January 24th @ 7:00pm.

(inside Joy Fold card)

***edited to add cutting measurements for this card***
Card base - Naturals White: 4 1/4" x 8 1/4" - score @ 5 1/2"
Stamped panel - Naturals White 4" x 2 3/4" (I used the piece I cut off the card base)
Folded message section - So Saffron: 3" x 8 1/2" - score @ 4 1/4"
Patterned Paper: 4" x 2 1/2"

Stamps: Bliss (Sale-a-Bration), Fabulous Phrases

Inks: Riding Hood Red, Baja Breeze, So Saffron, Soft Suede

Cardstock: Naturals White, So Saffron

Other: Tulip Border Textured Impressions Folder (Occasions Mini), Botanical Gazette DSP (Occasions Mini), Stampin' Sponge

Inlaid Embossing #2 - Circles

2011-01-15T16:33:00.001-05:00

Shelli's Creative Challenge this month was to try something new... when I saw samples of this technique, I knew I had to try it!

Another easy card from my technique class this weekend. It's a little more time consuming with all the punching and gluing of circles, but I love the way it turned out. It doesn't look like much until you run it through the embossing folder (Square Lattice). Then it's definitely a 'wow'. You could also use other shapes (flowers, hearts, stars come to my mind right away). This card was a CASE of this card by Lyssa.

I used the Button Embosslit and Button, Button stamp set from the Occasions Mini. I love that they co-ordinate with each other so perfectly!

Stamps: Button, Button, On Your Birthday
Inks: Concord Crush, Pear Pizazz
Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Whisper White, Pear Pizazz, Daffodil Delight, Concord Crush
Punches: Circles (1/2", 3/4", 1", 1 1/4", 1 3/8", 1 3/4"), Decorative Label
Other: Square Lattice Textured Impressions Folder, Button Embosslit

Fast & Fun Friday - Inlaid Embossing

2011-01-14T13:04:00.003-05:00

On Fridays, I share something quick & easy to make (under 15 minutes).

This card is one that we're making at my Technique Class this weekend. It also qualifies as quick and easy with the help of the Big Shot. This card is a CASE of a beautiful card I found created by Lyssa. I also tried a new technique (Inlaid Embossing) and used some of my new favourite products (Pear Pizazz Seam Binding & Nature Walk stamp set)... so it qualifies for Shelli's Creative Challenge this month.

I still have some openings available in my Sunday Classes... let me know if you want to come and make this card!

I used the Nature Walk stamp set and the Pear Pizazz Seam Binding from the Occasions Mini Catalogue. This technique is something new I tried (I have a few more to show you over the next little bit) and it's so easy! Just cut or punch cardstock pieces, stick them onto more cardstock, and run it through an embossing folder. This example is right on the card front (I ran the whole card front through), but you can also do smaller pieces and adhere them onto your card after.

Stamps: Nature Walk, Because I Care

Inks: Perfect Plum

Cardstock: Perfect Plum, Naturals White

Other: Top Note Big Shot die, Elegant Bouquet embossing folder, Pear Pizazz Seam Binding, Stampin' Sponge, Perfect Plum Stampin' Write Marker

Birthday Cupcakes

2011-01-11T23:18:00.000-05:00

No theme for today's post, but I wanted to share this super cute card (IMHO) that uses the Create a Cupcake stamp set and the Build a Cupcake punch from the Occasions Mini. The design of this card is based on a card sketch by Susie Nelson on the Stampin' Connection (a website for demonstrators). I also used the Confetti stamp set from the main catalogue for the stamping on the white blocks.

Stamps: Confetti, Create a Cupcake
Inks: Daffodil Delight, Tempting Turquoise, Melon Mambo, Soft Suede
Cardstock: Naturals White, Melon Mambo, Whisper White, Daffodil Delight
Other: 1 1/4" Square punch, Build a Cupcake punch, Big Shot Scallop Square die, Brights Patterns DSP

Mini Monday - Nature Walk for You

2011-01-10T15:58:00.000-05:00

In my Mini Monday posts, I feature a stamp set (or two) and products from the current Mini Catalogue.

This is a card we made at my Downline Meeting & Info night in January. I was showcasing products from the Occasions Mini and Sale-a-Bration flyer, so this card features four items from the Occasions Mini. I also show a Technique Rewind, where I go back to a past technique from one of my classes and we make a card using the technique. I showed Poppin' Pastels on this card.

I stamped the centre panel with VersaMark using some of the stamps from Nature Walk. Using a Sponge Dauber, I dabbed different coloured Stampin' Pastels over the VersaMark images. This gives a soft, more subtle effect. I also used the Tulip Border Textured Impressions folder from the Occasions Mini to emboss the edge of my card base. I applied a little Frost White Shimmer Paint to the embossed area with my sponge dauber. The sentiment is stamped with a stamp from Say it Simply (also in the Occasions Mini). I love the look of vintage book paper on cards, but haven't ripped apart any books to get my own yet. Now I don't have to, because Stampin' Up! has First Edition DSP which is a thinner than their regular designer papers, and looks like vintage book paper or newspaper. I love it! For this card, I ran a strip through my Tasteful Trims Big Shot die (from the Holiday Mini but still available to purchase). The Decorative Label punch was introduced in the Holiday Mini, and I'm very happy that it's in the Occasions Mini as well... it has become a favourite.

Stamps: Nature Walk, Say it Simply
Inks: VersaMark, Soft Suede, Frost White Shimmer paint
Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Naturals White, Rose Red, So Saffron
Big Shot: Tulip Border TIF, Tasteful Trims die
Punches: Decorative Label, Wide Oval
Other: Stampin' Pastels, Sponge Daubers

Sketchy Sunday - # 103

2011-01-09T07:30:00.013-05:00

I have a 12x12 scrapbook sketch for you this week...

This is the layout we're making today at my Scrapbook Class.

I used the Wonderfully Worn background stamp, Fifth Avenue Floral, and some Big Shot dies for the title and accent. I also used papers from the Bright Patterns DSP pack. There is a lot of paper tearing on this layout, and looking at the layout after it's made, I got the idea to create a mask from torn notepaper to use when stamping the background with the Wonderfully Worn stamp. I'm hoping someone at the class will try that today... I used the Notes & Details stamp set from the Occasions Mini to stamp the journaling card and the bracket as well as the "the good stuff" stamped subtly by each of the photos (you might be able to see it if you click the layout to enlarge it). As soon as I saw that set, I knew it would be perfect for scrapbooking.

Stamps: Wonderfully Worn, Notes & Details, Fifth Avenue Floral
Inks: Old Olive, Early Expresso
Cardstock: Old Olive (textured), Tempting Turquoise, Melon Mambo, Whisper White, Brilliant Blue (textured)
Big Shot: Timeless Type sizzlets, Scallop Rectangle Clearlit, Square Lattice TIF
Other: Small Heart Punch, Brights Patterns DSP pack

Step it up Saturday - Medallion Medley

2011-01-08T10:32:00.001-05:00

The Medallion Medley Simply Sent Kit, and Say It Simply stamp set in the Occasions Mini make it so quick and easy to create a pretty card. All I added to the first card was Rich Razzleberry ink to stamp the sentiment. There are extra labels, in case you don't always stamp perfectly the first time (I hope I'm not the only one with that problem)! The cards are pre-printed, and the green medallion is also dry embossed.

I stepped up the second card with Rich Razzleberry Satin Ribbon, a Neutral button and some Linen Thread. This is still a very quick and easy card (under 5 minutes), but it's a step above the first one.

Stamps: Say it Simply
Inks: Rich Razzleberry
Other: Medallion Medly Simply Sent Kit, Neutral Button, Linen Thread, Rich Razzleberry Satin Ribbon

Fast & Fun Friday

2011-01-07T08:26:00.000-05:00

This card is one of the thank you cards I'll be sending out with my January orders... this card is so quick that I made four in less than ten minutes!

1. Cut your background cardstock (Crumb Cake) to 3"x6". Fold into a 3x3 card.
2. Cut First Edition DSP into 2 1/2"x2 1/2" squares. Crumple up into a ball, and then open up again (don't make it too flat).
3. Cut Very Vanilla cardstock into 2"x2" pieces. Stamp an image and sentiment onto the cardstock (I used Rich Razzleberry ink and my Clearly for You stamp set).
4. Glue your crumpled First Edition DSP onto your card base (don't glue the edges down).
5. Adhere your stamped cardstock with Stampin' Dimensionals.

Try it Thursday - Stamp on Patterned Paper

2011-01-06T07:53:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year! I hope you enjoyed some time with family and friends over the past few weeks. It was busy around here, and I'm happy to be back to normal. I didn't do much stamping, but I do have a few things to share. The Occasions Mini Catalogue started on Tuesday, and I have some new favourites. This card shows one of the: Clearly for You. I really like the vintage-style images, and I'm looking forward to making some inserts for my Simply Adorned necklace with it soon.

I used several of the images to create this Z-Fold card (the card I swapped at my downline meeting last month), and I stamped the butterfly onto another new favourite, the First Edition DSP (also in the Occasions Mini). This adds some interest and colour to a neutral paper.

Stamps: Clearly for You
Cardstock: Pretty in Pink, Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla
Punches: Scallop Oval, Large Oval
Inks: Rich Razzleberry, Pretty in Pink, Chocolate Chip
Other: First Edition DSP

Emboss Resist - December Technique class

2010-12-24T00:04:00.000-05:00

Somehow I missed sharing this before my class last weekend, so I'll share now. I have noticed (and I'm sure you have too) that the daily themes aren't working for me right now. I have cards I've made, but they don't fit a theme, so I don't share them. So for now, if I have something that goes with a theme I'll post it, but otherwise, I'll go back to sharing whatever I've been working on. With that said here is my card for today:

In one of my past technique classes (Heat Embossing), I did quickly share the Emboss Resist technique. I've had a few requests to go over it again, so December's class was all about Emboss Resist. We used watercolours, Stampin' Pastels, and classic inks with Sponge Daubers and Stampin' Sponges. The technique is the same no matter what medium you use:

1. Stamp an image with VersaMark ink and sprinkle with Stampin' Emboss powder (I usually use Clear).
2. Heat with a Heat Tool.
3. Apply ink (or pastels) over the area you embossed.

That's it! The embossed areas will resist the colour and show whatver is underneath. For this card, I stamped the swirl from Elements of Style onto a piece of Newsprint DSP. After heating the embossing powder I rubbed several ink colours randomly over the butterfly with my Sponge Daubers. The butterfly was cut with the Beautiful Butterflies die for the Big Shot.

Stamps: Inspired by Nature, Curly Cute
Inks: Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Rose Red, Perfect Plum, VersaMark
Cardstock: Naturals White, Pear Pizazz, Perfect Plum, Rose Red
Big Shot: Elegant Lines textured impressions folder, Beautiful Butterflies die
Other: Corner Rounder punch, Dotted Scallop Ribbon punch, Newsprint DSP, Neutrals buttons, Linen thread.

Try it Thursday - Letterpress plates

2010-12-16T20:40:00.002-05:00

On Thursdays, I try something new, and invite you to try it too!

Stampin' Up! introduced Letterpress plates for the Big Shot in the Holiday Mini Catalogue, and I thought I'd get one to at least try it and see what I thought. You ink the raised portions of the plate with Craft ink (I used Real Red and Old Olive Stampin' Spots so I would get two colours). Then it goes through the Big Shot with paper (they recommend Watercolour paper, but I used Naturals White paper). My photo didn't capture the debossed effect very well, but it does look nice in person. My paper slid a little, and it's not perfect, so I inked the edges to disguise it a little...

Inks: Real Red & Old Olive Craft ink
Cardstock: Real Red, Naturals White, Pear Pizazz
Other: Old Olive 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Scallop Trim edge punch, Joyful Season letterpress plate, Holly Jolly DSP

Shannon West made a video for Stampin' Up! which includes some very good tips & tricks to be successful with the Letterpress plates: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJpeQ7fL5mw

Mini Monday - Wintery Day of Gratitude

2010-12-13T23:15:00.000-05:00

Day of Gratitude is in the Fall/Thanksgiving section of the Holiday Mini, but I think it can also be used for Christmas... the medallion image can be used as an ornament, or in this case as a snowflake-like image. This is one of the cards we'll be making at my Technique Class this weekend, and it shows a variation of the Emboss Resist technique. I added colour to the stamped & embossed image, then added more colour by rubbing it over the embossed image. I will have other sentiments available if you don't want to make this a Christmas card. Please contact me to register for this class if you'd like to make this card.

Stamps: Day of Gratitude, Christmas Greetings, Serene Snowflake
Inks: Whisper White (Craft), VersaMark, Baja Breeze, Marina Mist
Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Marina Mist, Whisper White, Very Vanilla
Other: Clear Stampin' Emboss Powder, Stampin' Sponge, Elegant Soiree DSP, Rhinestone brad

Whatever Wednesday - Snowy Scrapbook page

2010-12-08T21:44:00.000-05:00

This is the scrapbook page we'll be making this Sunday at my December Scrapbook class... the pictures are from a few years ago, but I could have created this layouts from pictures I took this week too... we're experiencing huge snowfalls! My Big Shot got a workout on this layout... cutting out Timeless Type letters for the title, embossing some snowflakes (Northern Flurry Textured Impressions folder) and cutting some accent snowflakes (Northern Frost Decorative Strip) which I sponged with Champagne Mist shimmer paint. Serene Snowflakes was the perfect stamp set to use on this layout, and I also stamped part of my title with the Broadsheet Alphabet.

There is still time to sign up for this class - just $5.00 (or free with a $25.00 order). Please RSVP by Saturday, December 11th.
Stamps: Broadsheet Alphabet, Serene Snowflakes
Inks: Baja Breeze, Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint
Cardstock: Bashful Blue (textured), Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla
Big Shot: Northern Flurry T.I.F., Timeless Type Sizzlets, Northern Frost Decorative Strip
Other: Neutrals Prints DSP (I used the Very Vanilla Patterns

Sketchy Sunday #102!

2010-12-05T22:58:00.000-05:00

I have a quick & easy card sketch for you this week:

I wanted to try out my Holly & Jolly rub ons before the holiday season is over (I'm still working on my cards for this year). I have to admit, they were a little tricky to use, and I had to be very careful, and rub longer than I was expecting based on the rub-ons I've used in the past... I do like the way the card turned out though, and I hope you like it too!

If you would like to play along, please add a link to my comments so I can go and see what you've created!

Stamps: none!
Inks: none!
Cardstock: Naturals White, Crumb Cake, Riding Hood Red, Old Olive
Punches: Scallop Circle, 1 3/8" Circle, Decorative Label
Other: Paper Piercer & Mat Pack, Holly & Jolly rub-ons, Basic Rhinestones, Jolly Holiday DSP

Congratulations to Yvonne, Joyce and Kirsten!

2010-12-05T22:40:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure where this week went... but I want to say congratulations to Yvonne and her two new downline members, Joyce and Kirsten. They took advantage of the 1/2 price Starter Kit while that promotion was running I'm hoping I'll get to meet them and stamp with them this month at my team meeting!

Congratulations to Pauline!

2010-11-29T21:13:00.000-05:00

I would like to welcome Pauline to my Gold Stars, Ink. team. I just met Pauline this weekend, and it was so fun to help her create some cards. Pauline decided to go for the great deal on the Starter Kit so she could get everything she needed to start stamping. I'm looking forward to stamping with her again soon!

Congratulations to Susan and Margaret!

2010-11-28T12:48:00.000-05:00

I want to welcome Susan to the Gold Stars, Ink. team. She joined up as Margaret's downline with the fantastic Starter Kit special! There are just three days left to take advantage of this great deal yourself... let me know if you want more details!

Congratulations to Adelina!

2010-11-27T21:17:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Adelina, the newest member of my Gold Stars, Ink. team! Adelina joined to get the great deal on all the products in the Starter Kit. There's just three more days to take advantage of this great deal! Click here if you'd like to learn more.