armed with a rubber stamp

Teacher Gifts

2009-12-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

I found this idea online...can't remember where now! So, I decided to give it a try.
Teacher Gifts are so much fun for the princess. She loves to give her teacher a gift, and apparently she loves the reactions she gets because it's always handmade! This year I had to make one of these little altered notepads for her as well.

I decided to make one for each of the little prince's "teachers" as well.

So cute - they hold a pad of post-it notes inside. Perfect for throwing into your purse - never be without a scrap of paper again!!

I used 2 pieces of chipboard cut to 4x4, covered the fronts and backs of the chipboard with DSP. Used markers to colours the flowers, various brads to attach them. Spiral punch along the top of the "notes" piece and ribbon attached with Crystal Effects so it flips open.

Let me know what you think!!

I'll be back tomorrow with another "recycled Christmas" card!

Recycled Christmas #11

2009-12-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

As promised, here's a different version! I used much more of the original supplies, but to be honest - each time I made this card it was different. I finally decided to change the layout to "landscape", had 3 "ornaments" and dropped the pink rectangular piece and just stamped the greeting!

Sheesh! Who knew it would be so hard!?!?!

So, what's your opinion? Recycled Christmas #10 or #11??

See you tomorrow!

Recycled Christmas #10

2009-12-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

This is was the MOST difficult card for me. I have had so much trouble with this set of supplies!

I'll show you the original just below, but this example has practically nothing of the original! Tisk, tisk on me, I suppose!

I love the concept of colouring the stamp with two different colours, but I don't think I hit the nail on the head with this particular design.

Here's the original...but I want to hear your suggestions on improvement!

Tomorrow I'll have another version that I came up with for your viewing enjoyment!

Recycled Christmas #9

2009-12-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

I love snowflakes!!

Here's #9 in this series...I'm almost done my Christmas cards for this year. I'll have a few more examples to show you over the next few days, probably until the end of the week.

Right now I'm working on finishing the cards up and concurrently I'm designing some "teacher" gifts for the princess and the little prince to give this year.

That process is difficult, but only because there's a tonne of ideas running through my head!

Here's the original:

Practically identical, isn't it?

Recycled Christmas #8

2009-12-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday to you!

I think Christmas cards should be simple. And even though simple could seem boring...there's still some work to every handmade creation, and no matter what - everyone appreciates that work.

Markers are at the heart of this creation, I stamped "NOEL" in black and coloured the letters and ornament. I took the ornaments from "Take Three" and coloured only a portion of the stamp in Almost Amethyst for the bottom portion. I added some Saffron ribbon along the side and I'm pleased with the outcome.

Here's the original:

I used pastels on the original, so the picture doesn't do it justice...

Recycled Christmas #7

2009-12-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

What I love about DSP is that there's always two sides to every story...

When I was trying to figure out how I would alter this set of supplies to become a little Christmas-y, I thought the original was a little too pink. I know what you're thinking..."Kim thought there was too much pink?! She'd never think that!" LOL!

So I flipped over the DSP to reveal some different colours and pulled from those colours and I'm happy with the end result!

Let me know how you're enjoying this series...even if you're not enjoying it - let me know and I can post some different creations! I promise, I won't be offended!!

Here's the original:
I'll be back tomorrow with another one...

12 Days of Holiday Sales...

2009-12-12T11:26:00.004-05:00

These might be the most exciting 12 days of December with select Big Shot dies and vinyl sheets for the Big Shot on sale! The 12 Days of Holiday Sales begin today and runs through December 22.

Some of the items introduced in this sale are new colours of Décor Elements vinyl sheets. There are 18 new colours to choose from, and they make great projects when you use them with Big Shot dies. Consider pairing the Clear Décor Elements vinyl sheets with the Tulipe Bigz die to create an etched-like design on a vase. Or use the Decorative Accent Bigz dies with the Old Olive Décor Element vinyl sheets to enhance a frame. The combination of Big Shot dies and Décor Elements vinyl sheets is sure to take your creativity to a new level!

If you would like to view what's available CLICK HERE and be sure to select me as your demonstrator to get preferred pricing and the best shipping prices!

See you tomorrow...

Recycled Christmas #6

2009-12-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

I decided not to cut the grid for this variation, but I'm still happy with the outcome.

The "happy holidays" portion of the rub-on was in a long line so I found it was coming off on my fingers while I was trying to hold the other part to transfer it. Explains why only 2 sides were done, doesn't it?

Isn't the swirling snow pretty?

This is the last one for this colour combination/variation.

Check back tomorrow to see some new combinations!!

Have a great day!

Recycled Christmas #5

2009-12-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

A variation, as promised.

This rub-on was one large snowflake that spelled out "let it snow". I think it's kinda cool after it's been "shattered" out on the grid.

Please, if you're feeling panicked about your Christmas cards this year...drop me a line. We can create beautiful yet simple cards for you!

See you tomorrow!

Recycled Christmas #4

2009-12-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

Some might say this is a little "goth", but I love the boldness of the colour combination!

When we originally did this card we used a bleaching technique. That technique did, however, prove troublesome! ;)

I used white rub-ons and transferred the sleigh, reindeer and snowflakes separately, then I cut the "picture" to create the grid.

I added the snowflake brad (which isn't SU!), but I love it.

Here's the original:

I'll have a couple more variations of this one. There's only so many of the same rub-on images in a package. Be sure to check back...

OMG! I forgot to post!

2009-12-09T23:10:00.002-05:00

And this is #3 in my series...recycled Christmas!

I'm really quite fond of how this one turned out, and so simple!

The only thing I added was a couple of "ice" rhinestone circle brads. I couldn't resist a little bling!

Still used the same set "Heard from the Heart" for the sentiment, but traded out last year's SAB for Serene Snowflakes.

Here's the original:

Recycled Christmas #2

2009-12-08T06:00:00.001-05:00

Here's # 2 in my little series. I adore Kiwi Kiss & Pacific Point together and I love how this turned out.

New elements include Patterned Pines (which is a Level 1 Hostess set exclusive to the holiday mini catalogue), the Modern Label punch and Serene Snowflakes - also in the holiday mini. Oh and let's not forget the "merry & bright" from To You and Yours, which I believe is on the dormant list that will be retiring on 5 Jan 2010.

I think I might actually enjoy the Christmas version better than the original. But I do love, love, love the Choo Choo set in the original. Screams little boy!

I'm really enjoying this little project of mine - I find myself completing a couple of cards here, a couple of cards there. No stress, not mass producing and no cutting! Did I mention how much I love not having to cut anything!?!?

Here's the original:

Have a wonderful day!

Recycled Christmas?

2009-12-07T06:00:00.001-05:00

Allow me to explain...

You see, I'm a busy mom of two, who works full-time outside of the home, I work out 6 times a week between kickboxing, weights and cardio and spend most of my time exhausted. We're going on vacation soon and things around here are piling up.

And while I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE making my Christmas cards...something has got to give!

A while back I was running $10 card classes. All supplies were pre-cut par moi and you wonderful ladies came in, stamped, assembled and went away with some fabulous cards (if I do say so myself!). I still have some of those supplies left hanging around. I had thought I would sell them off as kits to those who wanted them, but as time flies by me...I've been putting it off and putting it off.

Well, 2 nights ago I decided it was as good a time as any for me to stick to what I love - stamping and assembling! UREKA!! No cutting required!! Whew! I really didn't think I was going to have the time to get this done!

This is the first card of a series, which I will call recycled christmas! Don't you love how you can simply change out the stamp set and the card has a completely different feel!?!

Does it look familiar now???

HUGE SALE FROM STAMPIN' UP!

2009-11-23T20:59:00.007-05:00

One week only!! Stampin' Up! is offering its Holiday Extravaganza sale with products up to 50% off!

You can place your order online or through me. Just let me know!
Happy shopping!!

Item	Description	Regular Price Sale Price	Discounted Price
120280	Framed with Love Bundle Framed with Love stamp set Full Heart punch	$59.90 $29.95	$29.95
120281	Thank You Kindly Bundle Thank You Kindly stamp set Scallop Edge punch	$41.90 $20.95	$20.95
120976	Thank You Kindly Bundle (French) Tous mes remerciements stamp set Scallop Edge punch	$41.90 $20.95	$20.95
120282	Animal Crackers Bundle Animal Crackers stamp set Star Designer brads	$35.45 $17.73	$17.73
120283	Corduroy Button Bundle Kraft Corduroy buttons Pumpkin Pie Corduroy buttons Summer Sun Corduroy buttons Basic Gray Corduroy buttons Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$67.50 $33.75	$33.75
120284	Game Night Bundle Card Games stamp set Game Night stamp set	$54.90 $27.45	$27.45
120285	Four Square Bundle Four Square stamp set Scallop Square punch	$42.90 $21.45	$21.45
120286	Heart to Heart Bundle Love You Much stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$69.85 $34.93	$34.93
120310	Heart to Heart Bundle (Spanish) Te Quiero Mucho stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$69.85 $34.93	$34.93
120311	Heart to Heart Bundle (French) J't'aime beaucoup stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$69.85 $34.93	$34.93
120287	Chipboard Letter Bundle On Board Timeless Type On Board Loads of Letters	$33.90 $16.95	$16.95
120288	Double-Stitched Ribbon Bundle Bashful Blue 1" double-stitched grosgrain ribbon Rose Red 1" double-stitched grosgrain ribbon	$27.00 $16.20	$16.20
120289	Ultimate Stampers' Starter Bundle* Best Wishes & More stamp set Eight Great Greetings stamp set On a Pedestal stamp set Earth Elements Stampin' Spots Earth Elements assorted card stock (8-1/2" x 11") Whisper White card stock (8-1/2" x 11") Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Flower Designer brads	$170.95 $102.57	$102.57
120290	Build-A-Brad Bundle Calendar Alphabet stamp set Pewter Build-A-Brad Antique Brass Build-A-Brad	$56.95 $34.17	$34.17
120291	Enjoy Every Moment Bundle Enjoy Every Moment stamp set Circle Designer brads Flower Designer brads	$58.95 $35.37	$35.37
120312	Enjoy Every Moment Bundle (French) Profiter de chaque instant stamp set Circle Designer brads Flower Designer brads	$58.95 $35.37	$35.37
120292	Cheep Talk Bundle Cheep Talk stamp set Note cards Pumpkin Pie Corduroy buttons	$57.40 $34.44	$34.44
120293	Sock Monkey Bundle Sock Monkey stamp set Sock Monkey Accessories stamp set Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$78.40 $47.04	$47.04
120313	Sock Monkey Bundle (French) Sing-chaussette stamp set Sock Monkey Accessories stamp set Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$78.40 $47.04	$47.04
120294	Alphabet Bundle Jayne's Type Alphabet stamp set Lovely Letters stamp set	$115.90 $69.54	$69.54
120295	Simply Said Bundle Simply Said stamp set Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Full Heart punch	$73.85 $44.31	$44.31
120314	Simply Said Bundle (French) Amitié stamp set Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Full Heart punch	$73.85 $44.31	$44.31
120296	On Board Bundle On Board So Tweet On Board Batch of Blooms On Board Essentials	$56.85 $34.11	$34.11
120927	Christmas Décor Bundle #1 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Kraft, Real Red) Small Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Small Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$100.85 $60.51	$60.51
120298	Christmas Décor Bundle #2 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Chocolate, Real Red) Small Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Small Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$100.85 $60.51	$60.51
120299	Christmas Décor Bundle #3 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Old Olive, Real Red) Small Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Small Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$100.85 $60.51	$60.51
120300	For All You Do Bundle For All You Do stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$50.20 $35.14	$35.14
120315	For All You Do Bundle (French) Merci pour tout stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$50.20 $35.14	$35.14
120316	For All You Do Bundle (Spanish) Por todo lo que haces stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$50.20 $35.14	$35.14
120301	Striped Ribbon Bundle Bashful Blue 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Pumpkin Pie 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon So Saffron 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Real Red 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$71.70 $50.19	$50.19
120302	Bling Bundle Sticky Pages Sticky Cuts Sweet Fine Supernova Stampin' Glitter Fine Galaxy Stampin' Glitter	$61.10 $42.77	$42.77
120303	Fresh-Cut Bundle Fresh Cuts stamp set Fresh-Cut Notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$50.85 $35.60	$35.60
120317	Fresh-Cut Bundle (French) Fraicheur exuise stamp set Fresh-Cut Notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$50.85 $35.60	$35.60
120304	Pendant Note Bundle Pendant Park stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$53.85 $37.70	$37.70
120318	Pendant Note Bundle (French) Adorable parc stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$53.85 $37.70	$37.70
120319	Pendant Note Bundle (Spanish) Un dia en el parque stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$53.85 $37.70	$37.70
120305	Sporting Bundle #1 Large Night of Navy Sporting Décor Elements Night of Navy Just Sports Décor Elements	$91.90 $64.33	$64.33
120306	Sporting Bundle #2 Large Chocolate Sporting Décor Elements Chocolate Just Sports Décor Elements	$91.90 $64.33	$64.33
120307	Sporting Bundle #3 Large Black Sporting Décor Elements Black Just Sports Décor Elements	$91.90 $64.33	$64.33
114864	Ginormous Flowers I Décor Elements	$53.95 $37.77	$37.77
114863	Ginormous Flowers II Décor Elements	$53.95 $37.77	$37.77
112534	5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$11.25 $7.88	$7.88
112533	5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$9.95 $6.97	$6.97
112081	Scallop Square punch	$22.95 $16.07	$16.07
113693	Full Heart punch	$22.95 $16.07	$16.07
113694	Heart to Heart punch	$22.95 $16.07	$16.07
112091	Scallop Edge punch	$22.95 $16.07	$16.07
112571	Circle Designer brads	$8.50 $5.95	$5.95
112579	Flower Designer brads	$8.50 $5.95	$5.95
112572	Star Designer brads	$8.50 $5.95	$5.95
114785	Small Wonderful Flowers Décor Elements	$53.95 $37.77	$37.77
114786	Medium Wonderful Flowers Décor Elements	$93.95 $65.77	$65.77
114791	Small Wonderful Leaves Décor Elements	$53.95 $37.77	$37.77
114792	Medium Wonderful Leaves Décor Elements	$86.95 $60.87	$60.87

*This bundle is only available while supplies last.

Cast-A-Spell DSP Birthday Card?

2009-11-06T00:01:00.002-05:00

Soooo, not what you think of when pondering a birthday card! But hey, I love Halloween, what can I say!?!?

The person that received this card is probably used to it - his birthday is the 28th of October!

Simple, simple, simple. Cast-A-Spell DSP, two strips were cut at 1 1/4" x 3 1/4" and the middle strip is 1 1/4" x 4 1/4". There's a layer of Perfect Plum and then I stamped the sentiment from Full of Life in Basic Black onto Whisper White. The ribbon is Organza in Perfect Plum and Old Olive. I just twisted the ribbon so it was smaller looking (and less girly!) and tied two pieces of Old Olive onto the Perfect Plum.

On the strips of DSP, I coloured a tiny bit of the edges to be sure it stood out a little from the background piece of DSP.

We're heading into the weekend - yippee! And remember, next Wednesday is Remembrance Day - please take the time to remember soldiers past and present. Lest we forget.

Have a great Friday!

Lovin' the stars!

2009-11-05T00:01:00.001-05:00

I'm all about stars when it comes to masculine cards and I am losing mojo quickly! It seems I always fall back on my star punches - and they always come through for me!

This card was for a new co-worker's birthday this past month. I used Whisper White, Ruby Red, More Mustard and Old Olive. The Modern Label punch is in there, along with of course, the small & large star punches. I trimmed down the Old Olive star with my Paper Snips so that a sliver of the Ruby Red was showing through. The ribbon comes from Elementary collection of Ribbon Originals. Also included, 3 Soft Subtle Certainly Celery brads. No Earth Elements in this room to be found!

See you tomorrow!

A little "pop" of colour!

2009-11-04T00:22:00.000-05:00

When I saw this layout, I just fell in love. The "army" side of me couldn't help but adore the gridwork look to it!
But, I was making a birthday card and felt a little morbid after a stamped a black cupcake!!

I decided to use my Stampin' Write markers to colour each of the letters in a different colour to make it "pop"! After I stamped that, I just knew I would colour the cupcake to reflect that same feeling.

Colours used are: Basic Black, Whisper White, Basic Grey, Real Red, Lovely Lilac & Green Galore. I used the 1 3/8" square punch for most of the squares, but had to trim down the far right squares to 1 3/8" x 1" to make them fit. I also used the new Modern Label punch for the sentiment and some silver brads to finish it off.

And I actually got a very nice compliment on the card from my husband! What's that all about!?!!?

Have a great Wednesday!

Pretty in Pink

2009-11-03T20:15:00.002-05:00

Who doesn't love Pretty in Pink? I've been making so many cards for the male co-workers in my life, it was refreshing to make a girlie card!!

Colours used are Whisper White and...you guessed it - Pretty in Pink. I embossed the image from Embrace Life in White, used the Scallop Circle punch, the 1 3/8" circle punch and one flower from the Trio Flower punch. Some fire circle rhinestone brads and some girlie pink ribbon. None of the ribbon came from Stampin' Up! I just have so much pink ribbon - I guess that's what happens when you have a little girl in your life! I stamped the "happy birthday" from Teeny Tiny Wishes in Basic Grey and used my Big Shot to dry emboss the background piece with the Elegant Bouquet textured impression folder as well.

I just LOVE Pretty in Pink!

See you tomorrow!

A going-away card

2009-11-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

Good morning!

This card I made for a co-worker who was heading away on a course. It's difficult for me to make masculine cards to begin with, and there isn't many sentiments out there for the event, so this is what you get!

I used Define Your Life stamp set and the colours are Real Red, Night of Navy and Creamy Caramel. I coloured a few of the squares in Creamy Caramel and Real Red on the Night of Navy DSP to change it up a bit. I "thread" my buttons using tiny strips of co-ordinating card stock and the Corner Rounder punch for the tag.

The recipient actually said, "Did you make this? You're great competition for Hallmark!" I guess masculine cards aren't that difficult after all!

See you tomorrow!

Long time, no blog!

2009-11-01T13:35:00.003-05:00

I know, I know. I've been so busy that I haven't had time to blog. Being back to work kinda sucks my creative energy right out of me. But I've made myself a promise to get back into that mood and get creating.

These little beauties were fun to make, even though I hate mass-producing anything! The princess took these into her classroom - even though there's "no gum allowed". Silly me, I thought - no peanuts/no milk/no whatever - that would be good. Apparently not!

Anyhow, I used Sweet Centers stamp set along with the Sweet Treat cups. Soooooo cute! I cut the Pumpkin Pie card stock 6" x 3" and folded it in half to make a 3"x3" pouch. There's sticky strip holding the card stock together and the lollipop stick in. However, word to the wise - don't put a round peg in a square hole. They don't stay together all that well. They made it to school, so it's all good!

Check back tomorrow for a card!

Loving Brocade Blue

2009-09-23T00:05:00.001-04:00

I was just chatting the other night with a friend about how much I love Brocade Blue & More Mustard together for masculine cards. I don't make masculine cards often, but over the next couple days you'll see a few of them. I've been asked to make up a few birthday, going away and all occasion cards for some co-workers, how could I say no?

This card is fairly simple, as most masculine cards are...kinda like men themselves! ;)
I used Chocolate Chip DSP for the circles, popped them up with some dimensionals. The sizes are 1", 3/4" and 1/2". There's a couple of the 5/16" brads on there and I used a Texturz Plate for a piece of the chocolate chip background.

I was looking forward to playing with my new stuff, but only managed to get one set put together as my husband ended up home early. Besides, I was losing my "crafty" with every yawn.

I hope you have a wonderful Wednesday!

So little time...

2009-09-22T00:01:00.000-04:00

So many new things to play with!

I received a bonus from Stampin' Up! this month, $125 in free products - my choosing! How cool is that?

But, I've been so busy at work I completely forgot that it was scheduled to arrive today. And oh, how I love that man in brown!

Here's a little peek at what he delivered yesterday, but I simply ran out of time to play last night after my kickboxing class, preparing bottles, lunches, packing bags...you get the idea.
Be sure to check back tomorrow, I've got new stuff and a husband who's out ALL evening - yeah, me!
Have a great Tuesday!

Happy Birthday...

2009-09-21T00:01:00.000-04:00

...to my baby sister! Muah!

Here's the card I made for her to celebrate her day. I know what you're thinking...that's an awful lot of blue! It's her FAVOURITE colour, so I went all out!

It's a wee bit detailed, so here goes:

Colours used: Night of Navy, Brocade Blue, Bashful Blue and Whisper White
I used markers in Brocade Blue and Bashful Blue to colours random squares on the Night of Navy DSP. Cool effect, eh? I stamped out 3 cakes and the cake holder from the On a Pedestal stamp set in all three colours onto Whisper White card stock. Cut each of those pieces out and used Crystal Effects to secure the micro beads. Ribbon is 5/8" grosgrain in Brocade Blue & 1/2" striped grosgrain in Bashful Blue and I tied the two together at one end. There's tiny strips of co-ordinating card stock "sewn" onto the buttons (that little trick I showed you a little while ago), and 2 of those buttons are from Playground and the other, I'm not quite sure;) Stamped out happy birthday from the Birthdays Count (retired, but remember I told you - I don't care!) onto Whisper White and layered it onto Brocade Blue. I used mini glue dots to secure that piece and the buttons to the card. Finally, I coloured the candles in Brocade Blue & Summer Sun, cut them out and put a tiny bit of Crystal Effects on the flames.

And...that's it! Enjoy!

Stars & Circles

2009-09-20T06:00:00.002-04:00

My apologies for not posting yesterday! Busy day at the apple orchard!! What a great day for it though! Beautiful, gorgeous weather here in Southern Ontario!

Here's a card that I had to try out after I saw it in the new PaperCrafts mag!

Colours used are Whisper White, Night of Navy and Brocade Blue. I used some DSP from the Print Patterns III (hostess) in Night of Navy, 2 sizes of star punches and the 1 3/8" circle punch. There's one strip of Night of Navy that I sponged with White Craft ink and layered some 5/8" grosgrain ribbon on it. Popped the circles off with Pop-Up Glue Dots, a dimensional under each of the large stars. I used 2 silver brads to secure the small star to the large stars for the left and right ones and a rhinestone brad from the Pretties set to secure the centre one. Stamped a simple and elegant "happy birthday" in Night of Navy from "Birthdays Count". I don't care that it's retired, it's my absolute favourite Happy Birthday to use! ;)

Let me know what you think!

Inspiration in Action Challenge

2009-09-18T18:00:00.000-04:00

Gretchen Barron, who does fabulous work posted this sketch challenge on her blog on Thursday.

When I found it, I just had to try it - plus, I needed a masculine thank-you card for a friend of mine.

Here is my version of the sketch:

The colours I used are More Mustard, Elegant Eggplant, Ruby Red and Soft Suede. I used Autumn Traditions DSP and watercolour paper. There's some paper-piercing and I popped the three leaves at the top using some dimensionals.

Awesome sketch Gretchen!

Snappy Birthday!

2009-09-17T06:00:00.000-04:00

So, I'm going to brag for a bit here...

This is the project we made for our Girls' Night Out club meeting on Tuesday night. Thanks Heather! I love the punched creations she comes up with - so awesome!

My princess also enjoys stamping, punching and crafting in general. Now that she's a little older, her and I have a blast playing together in my stamp room. Prior to Tuesday night's get-together, she wanted to create the project too! Of course, how could I resist my little sweetie!?

Here's her wonderful creation:

She literally did everything herself - just by looking at mine. The child just amazes me!

Enjoy your Thursday!!

A complete departure

2009-09-16T06:00:00.001-04:00

Wow! This card was difficult for me to do!

Those who know me, know how much I LOVE blue and silver for Christmas. Well, I have the Night & Day Specialty DSP from the mini and just adore the window sheets. I wanted to use the Serene Snowflakes, but wanted to include the DSP as well. For me - this was crazy! Black on a snowflake!?!?! No, no, no, no!

Here's how it panned out:
I used Kraft, Bermuda Bay and Basic Black. I stamped the snowflakes in Bermuda Bay and popped out a 1/2" circle in Bermuda Bay card stock, on which I filled in some dots with my Basic Black marker. I took a 1 1/2" x 4 1/4" piece of Bermuda Bay CS for along the bottom, but needed to secure the Window Sheet to it! So, I punched some holes using my 1/16" hole punch and used a needle to help with the Linen Thread. The sentiment was done with markers (Merry in Basic Black and Christmas in Bermuda Bay). I sponged both the Kraft pieces on all the edges in Basic Black. And there's a couple dimensionals behind the sentiment piece as well.

Let me know what you think!

Love this Build-A-Bear

2009-09-15T06:00:00.000-04:00

I could give this to my husband for our anniversary IF he hadn't insulted me the other night!!! Just joking - about the insulting, not the card!

My princess took one look at this card and asked - "is this Kanda and Putter?" Kanda is her bear we made for her 3 years ago while Daddy was overseas and Putter is the new little guy we made for the little prince. I thought it was so sweet!

I used Rose Red, Elegant Eggplant, Old Olive and Whisper White. The stamped images are coloured with markers. I secured the sentiment with two "ice" rhinestone brads and while the picture doesn't show all of it, there's some paper-piercing on the card as well.
Ugh - they're just so stinkin' cute!
Have a great Tuesday!

Build-A-Bear

2009-09-14T12:01:00.002-04:00

Who can resist those cute, cuddly little darlings?

Well, Stampin' Up! has teamed up with Build-A-Bear Workshop and they're all in the new Holiday Mini Catalogue! There's tonnes of products to choose from, even for the Big Shot!!

And this month:

Host a workshop totaling $330 (before s/h & taxes) or more and choose any one item* from the 2009 Holiday Mini Catalogue for only $14

This includes ANYTHING you see in the Mini Catalogue - even if it also appears in the idea book & catalogue. Example: Movers & Shapers die (pg 201) worth $57.95!!! *Unfortunately, the $14 item doesn't include My Digital Studio or hostess sets.

When you're ready to book your workshop, just send me an e-mail!!

Have a great day!

Twick or Tweet

2009-09-13T13:08:00.002-04:00

I am in LOVE with the new products available in the new Holiday mini catalogue!!

This set is Twick or Tweet and I used some Night & Day Specialty DSP, the colours are Black & White and Pumpkin Pie. There's some Black Gingham Ribbon, two black brads from the Vintage brad collection and 1 silver 5/16" brad that I coloured using a permanent black marker. All the edges of each Pumpkin Pie piece has been sponged with Pumpkin Pie ink and I used the Mat pack to perfectly align the brads.

A super-simple card, really easy to make and I love it!

If you haven't had the opportunity to check out the Holiday Mini Catalogue, take some time to do so! There's a link here on my blog, but if you prefer to hold it in your hands - just give me a call and I'll get you your copy. You'll be happy you did!

Greetings, Earthling!

2009-09-11T19:27:00.002-04:00

Cute, cute, cute! That's how I would describe this set! I had been hmmm'ing and haaaa'ing on this set for a while and finally got it. More importantly, finally played with it!

I used Rich Razzleberry, Bermuda Bay, Melon Mambo and Whisper White. Textured two layers of card stock with the Big Shot and my texturz plates. Stamped out the little alien in Basic Black and coloured it with markers. Finished off the sentiment with 3 silver brads.

Easy, peasy!
Have a great day!

Dasher

2009-09-10T21:02:00.002-04:00

I'm pleased to say that I've created something and managed to get a couple pictures of it!! It has been a good night for me so far...got the kiddies to bed seamlessly and headed down here to play. I've had a couple of VERY busy days at work, so I'm feeling very good about not thinking about work right now.

On with the card....

Colours used are Soft Suede, Real Red and Whisper White. The DSP is Christmas Cocoa Specialty and it includes this beautiful flocked design in Real Red. I used 5/8" grosgrain ribbon in Real Red, 1/4" grosgrain in Whisper White but used my Soft Suede marker to dye it. I stamped the greeting from Many Merry Messages in Soft Suede and Real Red and there's 2 of the 5/16" Neutral brads holding the vellum in place. Dasher is fantastic and under $12 - check the last page of the idea book & catalogue to find him!

Enjoy the card and I'll see you tomorrow!

Finished the butterflies...

2009-09-09T22:55:00.003-04:00

But I cannot, for the life of me, get a good picture of them.

We tried and tried tonight, but no luck. The princess is happy with them, so that makes me happy.

I'm feeling very, very blah right now because I haven't had any time to scrap/create/play at all. I'm starting to lose a bit of creativity and I'm not happy about it. I'm looking forward to a slower day tomorrow at work (we'll see about that...) and an evening alone once the kiddies are in bed. Here's to hoping that I'll have a dozen projects to share with you tomorrow.

And a quick reminder that there's a promotion on right now:

The decor elements Growth Chart is currently only available in one option - Old Olive, Taken with Teal and Chocolate Chip. When you purchase the Growth Chart you'll receive a free applicator tool. It's only available until September 30th, so be sure to order yours today. Can't wait to get mine for the prince's room.

Check back tomorrow!

A whirlwind week

2009-09-07T22:16:00.003-04:00

Say that 3 times fast!

It's been crazy busy around here for this past week, and it's looking like this coming week isn't going to be much different.

I've taken the time to update this blog with the mini-catalogue, hostess special and some projects - these updates are along the right-hand side of the page. I haven't, however, had ANY time to myself to stamp, create or even play. Not good, not good at all.

This week, I'll be working on some beautiful butterflies for my princess' room - check back often! The picture is from our demonstrator magazine - hence, where I got the idea from. It'll be adapted to suit our needs and won't be like a baby mobile. Be sure to check back to see the finished project!

Thanks and I hope you've enjoyed your long weekend!

Great Friend

2009-08-30T09:56:00.004-04:00

Good morning!

I got this set (Great Friend) when it was in the Occasions Mini catalogue earlier this year and I don't know why, but I haven't played with it at all. Boo!

So, the other day I grabbed it and had so many ideas running through my head, I couldn't get one to stick. This poor card has been sitting lonely, half done in pieces on my table for 4 days.

It uses Perfect Plum and Bashful Blue, I stamped the butterfly on Perfect Plum in White Craft ink, then embossed it with clear powder, the Bashful Blue butterfly is done with just Bashful Blue Classic ink. I used my markers to create the two colours on one stamp. There's the "Eyelet" Texturz Plate for the Big Shot, some half back pearls and some sponging/paper piercing.
Oh, and, the sentiment was stamped onto one of the tags that is on the Matchbox die for the Big Shot.

Busy weekend and it's going to be a busy Monday - we're so lucky!! Our dryer has died and I have an entire week's worth of laundry plus work clothes that needs to be done. Can you say AWESOME!?!

But, you have a great rest of your weekend!

I'm back

2009-08-28T13:46:00.002-04:00

Hi! Whew...it's been busy around here. So much to do before I head back to work. Problem is, I can't quite seem to get my brain to work. It's like I've lost all concept of time.
Anyhow...

Today is someone's birthday who is VERY special to me. I love her very, very much and wanted to give herself a little something she's been waiting for for quite some time.

Remember way back in March (are you thinking about it?)...well, we had Regionals here for Stampin' Up! and a fabulous demonstrator was there who showed us how to make these little scrapbooks using business envelopes. Paula Goff is the originator of this design and they're fantastic!!

I had made a couple (one of each of the kids) to give to hubby's grandma (who's AWESOME!) and she takes them everywhere with her. Before I gave them to her, I showed this special someone and she was in love.
I didn't want to make her one right away...I was hoping she'd forget about them so I could surprise her. I also made up some all occasion cards for her to use, 'cause if I don't make them for her...she doesn't include a card with the gift! :)

I used Tea Party DSP, Pretty in Pink card stock, 1/4" grosgrain ribbon, half back pearls, both sizes of the tag punch, Great Friend & Party Hearty stamp sets.

Thanks for your patience in my negligent posting!

Flight of the Butterfly

2009-08-21T09:23:00.002-04:00

Hi there!

Quick post this morning...this card uses Flight of the Butterfly. A personal favourite!

Bashful Blue, Mellow Moss and Whisper White make up the colours, Whisper White 1/4" grosgrain ribbon and the Scallop Edge punch. This is a 2-step stampin' set, so when you're using this one, I would highly recommend using the Stamp-A-Ma-Jig along with it. It's that tool that allows for perfect placement every time. 'Cause there's nothing worse than a crooked butterfly ;)

Looking at this card, I'm thinking I will alter it using the new Butterfly punch. I might be back this afternoon....

Some more All in the Family

2009-08-20T08:59:00.003-04:00

This is the other one that I wanted to show you. The princess and I finished it up yesterday morning while the prince was napping.

It's slightly different than the first, and it took us some time to get the "big sister, little brother" thing just right. We used Calendar Alphabet & Numbers for the letters. At first, we punched them out with a 1/2" circle punch. That was a little too big, especially considering I would have chosen to layer them onto 3/4" circles.

While I'm happy with the end result, part of me wishes that the Large Oval punch had an Extra Large Oval companion. I'm selfish I guess!

This frame that it's in is a standard frame (not a shadow box) and it does fit with the glass in it, however, I decided that I like it better without the glass.

I used the same colours as yesterday's project, which are Close to Cocoa, So Saffron and Almost Amethsyt. There's also DSP from the Tea Party set.

Enjoy your day!

Girls' Night Out project

2009-08-19T09:01:00.003-04:00

Good morning!

Here's the project we did for our club meeting last night. You'll notice the "people" are now coloured - they weren't yesterday!

This project was a lot of fun and completely customized! Each of the lovely ladies decided what picture they might like to include and worked around that. There were cats and dogs, grown ups, kids and little people too!

We used All in the Family and Family Phrases, Circle Scissors Plus tool, the Big Shot, circle punches, markers, some paper piercing - my goodness - too much fun all in one place!

I picked up the frame at Michaels' (the south one in London) and lucky me - they're on sale for 40% off! Yesterday there was still a great selection and I might be going back from another one!
Here's a picture of the project inside the frame. It's difficult for me to get a good picture of the project inside the frame because I keep getting in the reflection. My hand, my head, things on the table, the light in the other room. Annoying! But a look at it all the same!

I'm just finishing another one that has a picture of just the royalty in this house - so once it's done, I'll be sure to post pictures!

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

All in the Family (lots of family!)

2009-08-18T10:22:00.002-04:00

Ohhhh, I just love how much you can do with this set!

This is a little sneak peek of the project will be creating for tonight's club meeting.

A stamper's 10 club is a great way to get that wish list filled without breaking the bank. Each month (we meet every other month) we have Girls' Night Out here in my stamp room. Everyone places a minimum order (which is determined at the beginning of the club) and we rotate hostess benefits! You're guaranteed to get free stuff!
We always make fun projects and get the opportunity to chat and be girls!!

If you're interested in joining a club be sure to send me an e-mail!

Have a good day!

Stampin' Up! promotions!

2009-08-17T09:51:00.008-04:00

Good morning!

I wanted to let you know about some of the promotions that Stampin' Up! has until the end of August!

First one is the Growing Up promotion. Get a FREE package of Designer buttons when you spend $45 on stamps in the Growing Up section of the 2009-2010 idea book & catalogue (pages 74-90). You can click here to shop my online store now (Canadians only).

Also, you can join Stampin' Up! right now for only $105. The mini-starter kit is pictured here and includes:

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

If you're Canadian, you can click here to connect to my website, look for the "join now" button along the left-hand side and start your "paperwork". Signing up doesn't always mean becoming a demonstrator and holding workshops...it could mean getting these products at a wonderful price and enjoying a discount. That's the great thing about Stampin' Up! - you get to decide what's right for you. You'll need a password to get started online to get this offer, so send me an e-mail and I will get you the information!

Have a great day!

Ballerina (with Punches)

2009-08-16T06:00:00.000-04:00

Look at this cutie!
Oh, how I wish I could tell you that she's my original design. But, alas! This little darling was created by Anne Marie Peterson, who so generously shared her!

But!!! The rest of the card is mine!

I made this pretty ballerina for my niece who's just turned 6 years old!

Colours are Perfect Plum, Pale Plum, Whisper White, Blush Blossom (arms, legs, face), Barely Banana (hair) and Chocolate Chip (eyes).

Punches used are Word Window, Heart to Heart, 1/2" circle, 3/4" circle, Scallop Circle and 1/8" circle handheld punch.
I also used the Eyelet Border Punch along the bottom. DSP is Perfect Plum. I used my Glue Pen and Fine Cosmo Glitter to make her tutu sparkle!

Enjoy what's left of your weekend!

Big Shot - Matchbox

2009-08-15T06:00:00.000-04:00

Sticking to a "box" theme I suppose...here's a picture of some matchbox favours I created for a wedding shower.

There's 2 stamp sets used, Fifth Avenue Floral and Yummy (which was a Sale-A-Bration set). I used the Matchbox Bigz XL die in my Big Shot to create all the boxes, the base is Chocolate Chip and the part that wraps around is Bashful Blue. I kept the Bashful Blue piece of card stock large enough that it would cut out the tags at the same time. I used my Chocolate Chip marker to ink up just the words on the Yummy set for the message and then sponged the edges of the tag. There's Chocolate Chip Taffeta Ribbon wrapped around the box and a vintage brad holding the tag on the ribbon.

Cool thing about the Matchbox die? You don't need any adhesive to hold the base together, it folds perfectly and keeps itself in shape. A bit of SNAIL on one edge of the outer wrapped portion of the box and that's it!

Wish me luck - a 1.5 hour kickboxing class ahead of me!

Soccer Camp Thank-you!

2009-08-14T10:33:00.003-04:00

Today's the last day of soccer camp for the princess! She's had so much fun this summer. We decided that it would be more fun to do a few weeks here and there of soccer camp - 'cause it's awfully boring waiting for your brother and being stuck around the house during his naps!

I wanted to give the instructors (counsellors?) a little something to say thank-you and here's what I've come up with.

I used the Sizzix Bigz XL Box #2 die in the Big Shot to create the black boxes. Stamped the soccer ball from Family Accessories along a Whisper White strip. There's a tiny Old Olive strip which I cut using scissors (but not all the way through) to make the grass. The "thank-you" tag was done with the Small Oval and Large Oval punches and there's 2 black brads from the Vintage collection.

On the cards, I used All in the Family & Family Accessories. I cut strips 3/4" wide x 3 for each (kinda like Adidas!) layered my main images onto Old Olive. For one card I did some paper piercing around the Old Olive layer and for the other card, just a piece of black gingham ribbon.

I will fill the boxes with candy (these two really, really like their candy!) and give them to each of them this afternoon.

Have a good day!

Cheep Talk

2009-08-13T10:32:00.002-04:00

Cheep! Cheep! How cute is this set?

I don't know if you've noticed, but I've been shying away from the In Colors. It's not that I don't enjoy change, I've just been finding that EVERYONE in the SU! world has been using the In Colors and I was getting a little bored of seeing them. My least favourite combo - Rich Razzleberry and Crushed Curry! Enough already!

I did, however, want to try something a little different this morning, so I grabbed my In Colors and started playing. Here's what I came up with...

Melon Mambo, Rich Razzleberry and Glorious Green.
The supplies I used are:
*Cheep Talk (love that little bird!),
*Scallop Edge punch,
*Scissors to cut out the branch and bird by hand, and
*Dimensionals to pop them off the page.

What are you favourite In Colors?

A Simple Challenge

2009-08-12T09:41:00.005-04:00

Hello there!

So, I challenged myself to create something simple. Not a tonne of layers, not a lot of techniques, not a lot of embellishments, not a lot of stamping. Turns out, I didn't have a lot of motivation, nor a lot of inspiration, and I was not winning the war against stamper's block.

This card was started last night. I had a couple of concepts in my head, but those of you who know me, know that what's in my head and what actually makes it onto the page are two completely different things! Needless to say, it wasn't working! So, I jumped on the computer to blog hop. Wow! There's a lot of wonderful, fantastic and beautiful work out there! I finally found a layout that I wanted to CAS' (Thanks to Harriet Skelly) and I got to work.
Well, kinda...
It just wasn't getting onto the page. Argh! I left it on the table right where it was!!

I was up tossing and turning last night, thinking about this stinkin' card!!

This morning I came downstairs renewed, re-energized, ready! And it only took me 15 minutes - start to finish!!

Colours used are Soft Suede, Elegant Eggplant, Ruby Red and Very Vanilla. The DSP is Autumn Traditions. Stamp set is Warm Words inked in Soft Suede. Button comes from the Button Latte collection, which you can get for free when you purchase $45 from the Growing Up section of the idea book & catalogue.

And there's a little something special about the button. Thanks to Andrea Walford for this cute little tip! Instead of having thread in multiple colours, she suggests using tiny strips of card stock, so your button is always co-ordinated! Super simple - thread through the front of the button, mini-glue dot on the back to hold down the paper and snip the extras off the ends! How cool is that!?!?

Rose Red

2009-08-11T06:00:00.000-04:00

Turns out it's my favourite colour! I find myself reaching for it time and time again!

This card uses the All in the Family set, I do enjoy the versatility of this set! But it also features our Sticky Cuts Letters, Rose Red DSP, the 1 3/8" circle punch and the Scallop Circle punch. To make the letter all a-glitter is easy. Sticky Cuts letters come on a 12" x 12" sheet and have "backing" on both sides. They're basically die cut, so you just have to pop them out of the large sheet without removing either one of the backings. Once it's popped out, I remove the backing from the side I want to be glittery and lay it down on a sheet of copy paper. I pour the glitter over top of the entire letter, fold the copy paper in half to smoosh (getting the visual?) the glitter right into the letter, open up the copy paper, pull the letter out and pour the glitter right back into the container. Once I'm ready to put the letter onto my card, I remove the backing from the other side and it's done! And super pretty I might add!!!
The rest of the card is pretty simple. A couple different patterns of DSP, a strip of Whisper White to separate the DSP, a couple scraps that I hand-wrote "is" & "for" onto and I used my marker to ink up only the word "birthday".
I stamped, coloured and then cut out the birthday hat so it would pop off the card a tiny bit and so it would look like she was actually wearing it.

What's your favourite colour?

Love Fifth Avenue Floral!

2009-08-10T06:00:00.002-04:00

Hello there!
Can you tell how much I love (LOVE!!) the Fifth Avenue Floral set!?!?

This card uses Chocolate Chip, Bashful Blue, Old Olive and Very Vanilla. I used the Manhattan Flower folder (not texturz plate) to dry emboss the Bashful Blue background piece, stamped the rose images in Chocolate Chip, Bashful Blue and a little bit of Old Olive. The sentiment is inked in Old Olive on Very Vanilla and sponged on the edges in Bashful Blue. There's Chocolate 1/4" grosgrain ribbon with 2 brads from the Vintage collection. Last but not least, there's some paper piercing around about 1/3 of the Wide Oval I punched out.

Truth be told, I need my piercing template! It's difficult for me to pierce around a corner!

Enjoy the card!

Wedding with Fifth Avenue Floral

2009-08-09T09:51:00.003-04:00

I'm not happy with the picture of it, but I am happy with the card for today.

Here's a simple wedding card I've made on Basic Black. I stamped out the gorgeous roses in White Craft Ink and then used clear embossing powder on them to keep them crisp. There's some Hodgepodge Hardware in the bottom right-hand corner. I actually inked it with White Craft Ink, poured some clear embossing powder on it and heat set it to change it from its' original colour of Antique Brass. There's a 1" x 1 1/8" piece of Whisper White card stock inside the hardware and the "s" was done with Timeless Type Junior Alphabet in the Big Shot. The intention is that it's "monogrammed" for them! Strung some pink 1/4" grosgrain ribbon and voila! Simple to make & sophisticated-looking wedding card!
Have a stress-free Sunday!

Crazy 4 Cupcakes!

2009-08-07T10:30:00.004-04:00

Hi there! Who, tell me who doesn't love cupcakes!?!?

This card uses the Cupcakes wheel, inked in Basic Black. I used Pixie Pink, Bashful Blue & Gable Green markers (with a blender pen) to colour the cupcakes on the watercolor paper.

happy birthday was created in the Big Shot with Timeless Type Junior Alphabet in Bashful Blue and I sponged the edges of the letters in Bashful Blue. There's 4 fire rhinestone brads securing the watercolor paper to the Pixie Pink & Gable Green layers and there you have it!

I think it's classically cute - one of my favourite terms!
Have a great day!

Much better!

2009-08-06T10:16:00.003-04:00

Good morning! I'm having a much better day than I did yesterday. It seemed everything I touched went a little wrong - especially in my stamp room.
On a more positive note, the kickboxing class last night was incredibly therapeutic and I'm certainly feeling its' effects this morning!

On to the card!
The colours used are Taken with Teal, Certainly Celery and Apricot Appeal. I used my Circle Scissors Plus to create the circles in the focal point and punches (1" & 1 1/4") for the portion down the left side. I sponged Taken with Teal ink onto a scrap piece of card stock and punched out 1/2" circles to give the fake embossed look for the background. Also, I broke out the lamb from the words with my Basic Black marker for the sentiment and the lamb.

I think the lamb from Pun Fun is adorable. Especially since it's holding a little heart! I was thinking about what else I could create with this little darling? Well, I'm fortunate to have a six year old in my life, so that lead to an arts and crafts frame of mind and HA! Cotton balls!! The first time I tried this I balled up little shreds of cotton balls in my fingertips. I wasn't super pleased with that look, but I'll be sure to show you that at some point (that little one is still hanging out on my table!). I decided I liked just some wispy cotton instead.

I would love to know what you think!

I'll be back...

2009-08-05T10:27:00.002-04:00

Today is proving to be one of those days where nothing is going right - already!

The creation for today is not dry yet, therefore not photographed and not posted. I'll be back when hopefully the little prince takes his second nap!?!?

Wish me luck and please do check back later! :0)

All in the Family

2009-08-04T09:38:00.004-04:00

I wanted to share this card with you today to show you how much I love the All in the Family set. I've used this set to make kid birthday cards, our Christmas cards for last year (that's what you're looking at now), retirement cards (think - "from all of us"), you name it.

Pay no attention to the colours used or the DSP on the actual card. I'm pretty sure all of it with the exception of Very Vanilla is retired. Makes sense that this was last year's Christmas cards! I do enjoy the little cutouts on the corners of the layers though - I did that using a circle punch, but only put it about 1/3 to 1/2 way on the corner. I like the traditional look it gives.

Oh, and I wanted to tell you about a promotion Stampin' Up! is offering this month.
When you spend $45 on stamp sets from the Growing Up section of the 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalogue (pages 74-90) you'll get a FREE package of Designer buttons! Here's a picture of some of the buttons you can get for free:You get 28 stamps in All in the Family and it costs $51.95 - so you're guaranteed to get 1 pack (30 buttons) for free. Choose from Playground, Sherbet or Button Latte.

Well, my princess is back so we have lots of things to do today! See you tomorrow!

Asian Artistry

2009-08-03T10:08:00.002-04:00

Here's a little something that is a little outside my comfort zone. I don't use a lot of "pretty" flowers in my cards, usually very commercial/contemporary or not at all. But I decided to try something different.

I used Asian Artistry, which is a Level 2 Hostess set. Which means you can earn it free when you host a workshop.
The colours are Elegant Eggplant, Rose Red, Old Olive and Very Vanilla. I watercoloured the main flower image using markers and a blender pen. The grass was done with an Old Olive stamp pad. For the sentiment, I used my Basic Black marker to "break" out the stamp, inked each section and stamped separately onto 3/8" twill tape. I used Ice Rhinestone brads to secure it to the front of my card.

Enjoy what's left on your long weekend!

Some more scrapbooking

2009-08-02T07:31:00.003-04:00

I suppose you can tell what I've been doing with my long weekend!?
With half the family out of the house and a small prince who naps twice a day, I've been getting some serious work done around here. Fun work, that is!

I had talked about using the Color Wheel as a very trustworthy tool for determining colour combos the other day, well, another idea is using our Designer Series Paper as the starting point. This colour combo is Basic Black, Perfect Plum, Pumpkin Pie and Old Olive. Taken from Cast-A-Spell on page 161 of the catalogue. I used Perfect Plum DSP, Old Olive textured card stock, 8 1/2 x 11 card stock in Pumpkin Pie and (I'm sorry!) but I couldn't find any 12 x 12 Basic Black card stock, so I had to use what I had on hand in the retired Rockabilly Speciality DSP. But it did give me the opportunity to do the "opposite stripes" look with this layout. To say I went a little crazy with the brads would be an understatement...there's a combo of black (from the vintage collection), fire and ice rhinestones. The flash of the camera took away the colours, but they sure are shiny! I used my Big Shot to create the title using Timeless Type Junior Alphabet (yup, love it!!) and there's some black gingham ribbon. Can you believe I don't have a single Halloween stamp set?!?! I love Halloween and seem to no longer have even any retired sets left. Gotta go rewrite my wish list...enjoy the rest of your weekend!

hello!

2009-08-01T09:50:00.007-04:00

I really enjoy scrapbooking, but even I find that I MUST schedule the time to get my pages done. It seems with every digital shot I take, I can see the page in my head. But then life gets in the way and I don't get the pictures printed quickly enough AND there's dozens (dare I say hundreds) of older photos sitting here that need to be done AND of course, sometimes I'm just too tired at the end of the day! I decided this year to stop making excuses and that no matter what, I am going to scrapbook this year and my goodness, I'm actually doing it...slowly!

This page is about the little prince meeting some important people in his life. I don't have "permission" from everyone on the page to publish their image, so hence it's been photoshop'd!

Colours used are Brocade Blue, Chocolate Chip and More Mustard. I love, love, love this colours together. The largest pieces are textured card stock, smaller pieces are 8 1/2 x 11 card stock and there's some Chocolate Chip DSP. I used the brand new Timeless Type Junior alphabet in my Big Shot for the title and there's also some delicious Chocolate Chip Corduroy Buttons!

I can't say that I know for sure that this page is completely done, but I am pretty happy with it.

Let me know what you think!

Miss them already...

2009-07-31T09:54:00.002-04:00

*sniff, sniff*...two of my favourite people are off!
They've gone camping and I won't see them again until Monday.

The princess has been begging Daddy to go camping forever, and he's been promising her that they would go!
Well, now they're finally going and I'm so sad to see them go. I know they'll have a blast, if she can make it the 6 hours to get there. Thankfully she has a portable DVD player and a whole bag of movies to watch!

They're heading to Bray Lake (or something like that) north of Huntsville, they'll be right on the lake and she's soooooo excited!
They'll be roasting marshmallows, telling ghost stories, going for hikes, fishing, swimming in the lake and sleeping in their sleeping bags. I was surprised the child finally fell asleep last night she was so pumped up!

Well, I'll be back with another post if I can pull myself together - *tear*!

More Pun Fun

2009-07-30T09:29:00.017-04:00

Good morning!

Here's the other 3 cards we made for the Six Ways to Watercolour class from Tuesday night.

I really, really enjoy Pun Fun. It's so incredibly versatile. I choose not to break out the words from the images for these cards, but if you do - it opens up even more possibilities for this set.

As far as colour-combinations go, I trust my Color Coach! It's that little wheel on page 155 of the catalogue. For $13.25, it gives you multiple combinations for all the Color Families. The In Color selections aren't on there. I'm not going to lie - after 4 years I'm still surprised when I turn that wheel sometimes! Oh, and, I also installed a Color-Combo "machine" as an icon on this page along the right-hand side, if you're interested!

Have a terrific Thursday!

Pun Fun

2009-07-29T10:01:00.012-04:00

Watercolouring is a lot of fun and actually, I find it very therapeutic! Thank-you to my Secret Agents for joining me for a very fun class last night!

I kept the actual cards fairly simple and they sort of match, you could give these as a gift. I really wanted the focus of the card to be the images that were watercoloured, not a fancy-smnancy card!

We used 6 different ways to watercolour:
Watercolor Wonder Crayons, Watercolor Pencils, Stampin' Pastels, Classic Ink Stampin' Pads, Stampin' Write Markers and Classic Ink Refills. Although Ink Refills I find messy, so I didn't actually use that method yesterday! I think my favourite method is using the pencils and/or markers, but I definitely don't enjoy the crayons! I'll be running this class again sometime in the fall - why don't you sign up to determine your favourite way to watercolour!?
I'll be sure to show you the other 3 cards tomorrow!

Out of the Box

2009-07-28T10:36:00.004-04:00

Good morning! I had promised my princess that when her brother took his morning nap, we would spend some time in Mommy's stamping room. I wanted to make this card that I was thinking about and what better way to keep her entertained...at least for a little while!

This is a Level One Hostess set - Out of the Box. I think it's really cute, which is why I had used it a couple weeks ago on that "boing" page I did. Colours used are Chocolate Chip, Rose Red and Whisper White. While I'm not so great at paper-piercing, I do enjoy it. Especially the way it looks! Thanks goodness for the Mat Pack that Stampin' Up! sells. I used a couple dimensionals and some Crystal Effects on the heart to make it pop and oh, "LOVE many things." comes from the Dreams du Jour set. I just used my marker to ink only those words.

The princess is gone now (off playing in the family room) but we took some pictures of her creation:

She used as many markers as she could, a couple rhinestone brads, some snowflakes (which make perfect sense underneath a rainbow), some stars and button brads. At first I thought she was just going to use the markers, but then she had an "a-ha" moment and stole the set I was using and stamped each one of those images except the spring. Funny, I don't think she gets the whole concept of a jack-in-the-box yet. Weird!
Have a terrific Tuesday!

Just love birthdays!

2009-07-27T20:35:00.002-04:00

Sorry about posting so late today...it's been a really hectic day. My princess is not in soccer camp this week, so she likes to keep me on my toes! And big news - she has 2 loose teeth! She is sooooo excited about this! She has been waiting for a loose tooth since she was about 3 1/2 years old, so you can imagine the hysteria over 2 loose teeth!

Today's card was actually for a darling little girl who just turned 2 this past Thursday! She has such a sweet, coy and gentle temperament, so this card was perfect for her 2nd birthday celebration!

I used Almost Amethyst, Rose Red, Regal Rose, Whisper White and Basic Black. The Cupcakes Standard Wheel was inked in Rose Red along the left hand side and I used the Big Shot for the letters to spell out sweet. There's the Scallop Circle Punch and the 1 3/8" Circle Punch (which is a favourite combo of mine) and two black brads from the vintage collection.

I'll be back tomorrow, hopefully with a cute little surprise! We'll see ;)

5th Ave Floral - The Stairwell

2009-07-25T15:57:00.004-04:00

Finally!! I absolutely adore my husband, but wow, it's like pulling teeth sometimes! Truth be told, it took him all of 7 minutes to get them done too, what took him so long - who knows?
As promised - here's the completed project:

As soon as you walk into my home there's a large stairwell and I've been working on it since we moved here 5 years ago. Four years ago, I got the mirror and the 2 shelves. My sister gave us the picture frame about 3 years ago and for a while that was all that was in there. I have been eyeing the Manhattan Flower decor elements ever since Stampin' Up! came out with them, but wasn't sure that the Kraft would work in this space. When the definitely decorative catalogue arrived and I found that Certainly Celery and Basic Black had been added - SOLD!
I had some Urban Oasis DSP left over (love it!) from the candle class that we had here, so I thought why not make more of those cute little votives for the shelf? I also popped some of that DSP into a few simple black frames I had lying around, and there you have it!
Let me know what you think and enjoy your weekend!

Fifth Avenue Floral - a preview...

2009-07-24T12:59:00.003-04:00

Sorry about my late post today, I'm not feeling so hot right now. For 2 weeks now I've been having horrible back pain. I went to the massage therapist last night and she's fairly certain that I've popped a rib! Can you believe it??? I don't know exactly what to do, other than have my princess walk on my back some more...if you have any thoughts - please send them my way!

Today's post is a little preview. While I wait for my darling husband to put the finishing touches on a project I've been working away on, I wanted to give you a sneak peek. He assures me that he'll finish this task up for me this evening, so here's hoping! I should be able to show you the finished project tomorrow morning!
Thanks for stopping by!

Very Thankful (a little different)

2009-07-23T09:39:00.003-04:00

As promised, here's a different card using the same "Very Thankful" stamp set. I figured the previous one was cutesy, so I should try a little elegance for this one. I'm pretty happy with the way it turned out!

I stamped the peacock in Basic Black on the Whisper White card stock. Using a scrap piece of Whisper White, I coloured random sections of different colours with my new In Color markers. You heard me right, MARKERS!!

I stamped the peacock again in Basic Black over top of where I had coloured so some of the colours would show through the stamped image. Originally, I cut out the entire peacock (body, neck, head) but I didn't like that look, so I used just the tail portion and popped it off the page with a couple of dimensionals. I cut strips of Melon Mambo, Bermuda Bay, Rich Razzleberry and Crushed Curry to layer behind. That's our black gingham ribbon attached with an Ice Rhinestone brad.

Let me know what you think!

Embrace Life

2009-07-22T09:46:00.003-04:00

Good morning! This is a very delicate card in my opinion! Very intricate and detailed, but fairly simple to create. The images come from the "Embrace Life" stamp set. Colours used on today's card are Rose Red, Brilliant Blue and Whisper White. I used Rose Red to stamp the flowers on the background of the card, but used markers to colour the same set of flowers for the Whisper White piece. When you're using markers you can ink only the portions of the stamp that you want, use multiple different colours and stamp once. When using multiple colours, you'll want to "huff" on the stamp to re-moisten the ink to ensure it stamp a quality image. So, that's what I did here. I also used Whisper White grosgrain ribbon - I know what you're thinking, "Ummm, Kim, the ribbon is blue!" I rarely buy different colours of ribbon in our 1/4" size. For the most part, I buy a tonne of the Whisper White and use my ink pad and a sponge to dye the ribbon whatever colour I want that day. I also pulled out my crimper and crimped about half of the Brilliant Blue layer. Stamped the sentiment in Brilliant Blue in the bottom right-hand corner and there you have it!
Enjoy the rest of your day!

Happy Birthday!

2009-07-21T08:53:00.003-04:00

Who loves birthdays? It seems only kids seem to enjoy birthdays these days...my princess just loves everything about them! She loves to pick out presents for her friends, make their cards, pick out the wrapping paper/gift bag - everything! And she loves things that sparkle!

Today's card is a little sparkly!! I know, I know...this set is retired now, but I still love it! I used Goody, Goody Gumdrops that was a Level 3 hostess set from the Spring & Summer 2009 catalogue. The colours are Real Red, Bashful Blue and Whisper White. I actually stamped the "milkshake float" twice to cut out the pieces individually, coloured it with markers and used a little Crystal Effects to make the "cherry" stand out. Scalloped Circle Punch, Scallop Edged Punch and the Key Tag Punch are all there and 3 silvers brads and some fabulous glitter finish it off!

Time to find out why my little guy is still sleeping and hoping that you'll enjoy your birthday - whenever it may be!!

Very Thankful

2009-07-20T10:16:00.002-04:00

Happy Monday morning to you! Regret my absence since Wednesday - things have been crazy around here. Too many things to do and not enough time to create! How many of you golf? Well, I certainly don't but that didn't stop my husband from taking me to the course on Saturday. I'm terrible! And playing 9 holes after a one & a half hour kickboxing class with nothing to eat? Take my word on it...don't do it!!

Anyhow, I think this is one of the CUTEST new sets in the catalogue! It's called Very Thankful and you'll find it on the back cover. It's this year's Ronald McDonald House Charities set and I love it! Stampin' Up! sends a donation to RMHC with every purchase of this set.

For this card I used the little turtle guy (I'm just in love with turtles these days!) and I used my Basic Black marker to ink up just the wagons, stamped those multiple times and then finished off with the turtle attached. I just drew some lines free-hand to connect all the wagons. The turtle is coloured with markers in Glorious Green, Gable Green and Green Galore, hearts are done in Real Red, and finally the wagon is outlined in Brilliant Blue and Summer Sun. I cleaned off my stamp and inked the "very thankful" separately to use it on the left side. I used my Big Shot and a Texturz Plate for the background in Brilliant Blue as well as for the smallest piece of Brilliant Blue. Sanding blocks along the top help to bring out the dry embossing too! A couple of buttons from the Fresh Favorites collection and there you have it!
If my little guy permits, I'll be spending some time down here to create a different card using this set this afternoon.

But I'll definitely see you tomorrow!

Flight of the Butterfly

2009-07-15T09:17:00.003-04:00

Good morning!
I am so sore this morning - I had a great kickboxing class on Monday and I'm still feeling it in my back this morning. So much so, that my poor daughter was forced to rub my back with all her might this morning. What a great kid she is!
Anyhow...you didn't come here to listen to me complain!

I had so much fun creating this card. And I used bleach! The colours are Whisper White, Basic Black, and Real Red. I put a paper towel in the bottom of a small container, poured in a little bleach and used that as a stamp pad. You'll want to be careful to get the bleach only on the raised portions of your stamp. Too much bleach and it becomes a wee bit blotchy! Be sure to let it dry because you may not see the full effect on your paper until it does! I love how the bleach removes the colour from the black card stock, but you could also use white craft ink if you didn't want to try your hand at bleaching! Oh, and there's some red 1/4" grosgrain ribbon and a rub-ons from the Chit Chat collection.

Enjoy the card and wish me luck - kickboxing tonight!

Decor Elements Magic!

2009-07-14T09:43:00.004-04:00

So, lately, everyone has been teasing me about going green! I was challenged a few months back by a wonderful customer of mine to do better (she didn't even though she had challenged me!) and it sort of took off from there. Now I wouldn't be caught dead without my reusable bags or throwing out cardboard boxes, baby food jars, etc! My husband LOVES the new me! ;)

This is my daughter's dresser - it was my dresser for years and years, but became hers. Her room does not support it in its' previous state. All of her furniture is white, her bedspread, picture frames, curtain rod, etc. So, this brown wood, old-fashioned looking piece was an eyesore at best! I had been mulling over what I was going to do with it for quite some time and loved the idea in the previous Decor Elements brochure. In April, I had just gotten her a new bedspread from Pottery Barn and was bringing some green into her pink & white room. Aha! I decided to use the Villa Designer Touch in Certainly Celery and this is how it turned out!

Teddy & Train

2009-07-13T10:48:00.003-04:00

Good morning! I just love this set! I think it is soooo cute! I made this card for a baby shower, little boy of course - but think of how easy it would be to change out the colours!

I used the Teddy & Train set, the colours are Taken with Teal, Old Olive and Chocolate Chip. I watercoloured the bear and the train using a blender pen and markers. Of course I sponged the edges of the watercolour paper with Old Olive ink and was sure to use the blender pen to put a little swoosh under the bear to "ground" him. I learned that little trick at the Regionals in March.

Just a reminder that tomorrow's the last day to register for the 6 ways to watercolour class that I'm having here on Tuesday, July 28th at 7pm. Cost is $30/person and we'll be using the Pun Fun set, so the projects will be all occasion. Be sure to e-mail me at stampin.kim@rogers.com or give me a call to reserve your seat!

Have a marvelous Monday!

Out of the Box

2009-07-11T07:50:00.002-04:00

Good morning! This is a bit of a silly post this morning. Does your kid love the digital camera? Do you hear "let me see" over and over and over again? Our princess takes pictures of herself, the cats, her brother, everything it seems and loves for us to take her picture too! On occasion I like to scrapbook silly stuff. Non-life events, hanging around the house or even the pictures she takes. And that is where this came from. 7 pictures of her twirling, jumping and making funny faces. Over and over and over again.

The stamp set I used is called out of the box and it's a new level one hostess set. You can get it free with $200 order or when you host a workshop. A little twist on it, I wanted the "box" to be bigger, so I stamped it out on a piece of paper and then enlarged it on my printer and cut out the enlarged print. I think it's cute that it looks like she's popping out of the box. I stamped out the image in its' regular size for the title as well. Colours are: Tempting Turquoise, Pink Passion and Basic Black to match her "lovely" outfit (which she, of course, picked out herself!). I also used our Black gingham ribbon, but coloured it with Pink Passion and Tempting Turquoise markers to change it up.

Enjoy your Saturday!

B is for Birthday

2009-07-10T09:43:00.003-04:00

It's Friday! So that means tomorrow night is a date with my man. Well, two of my men - my husband and my favourite UFC fighter. What more could a girl ask for?

Have I told you how much I love Crystal Effects? I made this card for my friend Shannon and it has 2 of my favourite things - Crystal Effects and glitter!

To make the butterflies, I stamped them in the same colour as my card stock and then carefully "globbed" crystal effects on them. Lay your card flat to dry - it'll run! You can kind of see it, but the butterflies literally pop off the page! For the "b" I used one of our Sticky Cuts letters, placed it in a piece of paper, poured glitter all over it, folded the paper over it to smoosh the glitter right into it, pulled the backing off the letter and voila! A super-sparkly, perfect letter and the glitter doesn't come off. And there's no cutting required!

Enjoy!

12" x 12" single layout

2009-07-09T09:43:00.003-04:00

Good morning! Here's a single layout that I created for my son's first scrapbook. I had been working on it since November. All the elements were laid out and ready to go, I just for the life of me couldn't figure out the title. 2 months ago while I was laying in bed, trying to get to sleep, it came to me. 281 days...I was pregnant for 281 days! Eureka! That's it! And here it is...
I used Chocolate Chip DSP and Tempting Turquoise (2 of my favs!). The most difficult part of this page (other than determining its' title) was going backwards and figuring out the number of days for each arrow.

Enjoy and there will be NO fat jokes!
(Oh, and, my apologies, but I'm a bit of a private journal'er and had to "smudge" it out with Photo Editor - sorry!)

A little weaving

2009-07-08T08:11:00.003-04:00

Good morning! I'm in a bit of pain this morning...last night while I was half asleep, my darling little kitten (she's a fat cat) was sleeping at my feet. Apparently, she didn't like me rolling over and she dug her claws into the bottom of my foot like you wouldn't believe. Yup, even drew blood! Wow, it hurts!
Anyways, I wanted to show you a card that we made for my Girls' Night club.
The colours are certainly celery, apricot appeal and a wee bit of chocolate chip. Used the Big Shot to dry emboss the background after we used the brayer to apply some certainly celery ink. Also used birds & blooms die for the Big Shot for the flower. I just love layers!
The weaving technique is simple:
A piece of cardstock for the base
6 pieces of short ribbon (SAB - sorry!)
3 pieces of long ribbon (SAB - sorry!)
You adhere the short pieces along the top/back of the card stock and do the same thing with the long pieces on the side/back. From there, just adhere the pieces as you weave them over and under, I use adhesive throughout the entire process. Adhere the leftover length to the back side of the card stock and then adhere to the front of your card. It's that easy!
See you tomorrow!

Welcome frame

2009-07-07T08:50:00.003-04:00

This is a simple welcome frame that hangs over the entrance into my kitchen. It took me a while to figure out where I was going to put it, as my "foyer" isn't much of a foyer. Linda Hansen had shown us a welcome plaque at Regionals back in March and I thought it was so nice, I had to make one for myself. This will be my "summer" one, and I'll make (& upload) ones for fall, winter and spring.
I used the Welcome from our definitely decorative brochure sized medium. The frame is 11" x 16" and I purchased it at Michael's. I found this one on super sale and painted it brown with dollar store paint to cover the white. There's six different colours/designs of DSP placed at various locations to change it up and I used my Big Shot and our Bigz Die Beautiful Butterflies to make the winged friends. They layer very nicely. I put the Welcome directly onto the glass so it'll be easy to change out the background. I say easy, but I think my husband would disagree as he had a terrible time putting it up on the wall for me.
Have a wonderful day!

A gift for Madame

2009-07-06T10:37:00.004-04:00

Isn't it wonderful how kindergarteners sincerely love school and adore their teachers? Around here, that's certainly the case which is why we had been chatting for quite some time as to what we were going to do for Madame at the end of the school year.
When I saw this project in PaperCrafts magazine, I knew I had to CASE it.

We made a set of 6 thank-you cards for Madame to use herself and a cute little box/basket to keep them in until she used them. I used Washington Apple DSP (any DSP will work), colours are Bashful Blue, Pumpkin Pie and Riding Hood Red. I dyed the flowers from the Pretties kit using ink refills, small container and a bit of water. There's Fire/Ice rhinestone brads and I also used the corner rounder punch and eyelet border punch.
You'll need a 10" x 12" piece of card stock for the holder and here's a diagram:

Word has it, that the gift was "perfect"! Try it for yourself (wedding gifts, baby gifts, etc) and be sure to send me pics to stampin.kim@rogers.com so I can see what you've done!
Thanks for stopping by!

My first post!

2009-07-05T18:32:00.002-04:00

Welcome to my blog! I'm so excited that you've stopped by...it took me a while to get everything set up - but here it is!
My next dilemma was deciding what I would post as my first one ever!?!? So, I decided to show you a collection of cards that were my April/May card class designs. I hope you like them - I know the ladies who have joined me here in my stampin' room seemed to!
Check back tomorrow morning for a look at what we made for an end-of-the-year teacher gift for the princess' "Madame"!
Thanks for stopping by!