Stamping for Sanity!

Take It to Heart

2012-02-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

This card uses one of the the new Textured Impressions Embossing Folders (a set of 3). They are so easy to use and I like that they can be placed where ever you want. I used Real Red Craft Ink and clear embossing powder for the stamped image.

Stamp Sets- Take It to Heart, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper- Whisper White, Real Red
Ink- Real Red Craft Ink
Accessories- Modern Label, Word Window punches, Hearts Collection Framelit Dies

Apothecary Art

2012-02-02T08:00:00.000-08:00

I received this card in a recent swap. Chrissy Ferron made it. I liked how she used the new 3/8" Pleated Satin Ribbon.

Stamp Sets- Apothecary Art
Paper- Blushing Bride, Whisper White
Ink-Old Olive, Stazon Black, Blushing Bride
Accessories- Backgrounds 1 Texturz Plates, Pearls, Labels Collection Framelit Dies, Pleated Satin Ribbon

I am back!!!!!!!

2012-01-29T18:19:00.000-08:00

Well I am back from the Land of the Lost! Life is flying by and I have not been stamping. I hope to post at least once a week and hopefully more.

I am loving this stamp set, Bordering on Romance from the Occasions Mini Catalog. I really like all the new accessories for the Big Shot. I cut three labels from the Labels Collections (Framelits Dies). I used some Daffodil Delight 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon to pull it all together.

Stamp Set- Bordering on Romance
Paper- Daffodil Delight, Lucky Limeade, Calypso Coral, Watercolor Paper
Ink- Stazon Black, Calypso Coral, Daffodil Delight, Lucky Limeade

Accesories- Rhinestones

New Occasions Mini Catalog

2012-01-04T17:49:00.000-08:00

Today is the day! The new Mini Occasions Catalog has been released. There are so many new and wonderful Dies for the Big Shot along with new Embossing Folders. I have a workshop this weekend and one next week so I am going to be busy making cards. I hope to have some posted this weekend.

Tidings of Joy

2011-12-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

I received this card as a swap at my November business meeting. I do not remember who gave it to me. I like how she made the stable.

Supplies:
Stamp Set- Tidings of Joy
Paper- Soft Suede, Whisper White
Ink- Stazon Black, Various reinkers

Christmas Lodge

2011-12-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

I love this stamp set! Every card I have have seen made using this stamp I have have thought was just beautiful. This card I copied from my upline Kristi Stoughton. We had a business luncheon in November and she showed us this card. I think I will make this my Christmas card this year.
The picture does not do this card justice. There are Mica Flakes on the tree that make it sparkle.

Supplies:
Stamp Set- Christmas Lodge, En Francais
Paper- Sahara Sand, Always Artichoke, Whisper White
Ink- Always Artichoke, Black Stazon, Sahara Sand
Accessories: Mica Flakes, Cherry Cobbler Quilted Satin Ribbon

Christmas Stocking

2011-12-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

My inspiration for this card is from a Splitcoast Stamper member with a posting name aklemo. I changed the colors and a stamp set and created this card. I have had 2 different groups make it and all have raved how pretty it is.
I unmounted the letters and was able to mount all 3 letters on an acrylic block to spell joy. It was easy to organize spacing and make the letters level prior to stamping. Once I got them just right, I could stamp joy as many times as wanted and each time the letters were perfect. I am loving the acrylic blocks!
Supplies:
Stamp Sets- Stitched Stockings, Lovely Letters
Paper- Marina Mist, Silver, Whisper White
Ink- Marina Mist, VersaMark
Accessories- Silver Embossing Powder, Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder, Rhinestone, 5/8" Organza Ribbon, Baker's Twine

Christmas Card

2011-12-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

I got this amazing card in a swap. Unfortunately the creator did not leave contact information on the back. The tree boughs are a tree stamp from Lovely as a Tree stamped upside down. How clever is that? The ornaments are from Delightful Decorations and punched out using the Ornament Punch. The greeting is from Heard from the Heart. This card proves that a card can be lovely with only one layer.

Holiday Wreath

2011-12-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

I attended a quarterly Stampin' Up! business meeting last month and one of the ladies brought a Christmas wreath made with rosettes. It really was quite pretty. I took a picture, went home, and stated to create my own. I used DSP from Frostwood Lodge and bits and pieces from my retired paper stash. The new Simply Scored made it so easy to make the rosettes. I used buttons that I had and a piece of ribbon that came with a blanket I had purchased last year. It matched perfectly!

Advent Calendar

2011-12-04T08:35:00.000-08:00

The minute I saw this in the Mini Holiday Catalog I knew I had to make it. Once I cut out all of the windows and background squares, it went together rather quickly. I painted an unfinished 12" X 12" wooden frame and tried to make my own Cherry Cobbler paint. I used an entire bottle of reinker and was left with a bright pink color! I gave up and purchased a non-Stampin' Up! bottle of acrylic paint. It matched very well. I have to say it is pretty spectacular in person.

Supplies:
Stamp Sets- 25 & Counting
CS- Cherry Cobbler, Garden Green, Whisper White, early Espresso, Frostwood Lodge DSP
Ink- Cherry Cobbler, Garden Green, Early Espresso
Accessories- Peekaboo Frames Bigz L Die, Various punches, Rhinestones, Mini Jingle Bells, Stitched Felt

Christmas Lodge

2011-11-27T05:39:00.000-08:00

I made this card very simple. I like using only two colors and using several mats. I guess you would call that part of my stamping style! I was inspired by Jan Tinklenberg who is a Stampin' Up! demonstrator and does amazing work.

Supplies:
Stamps- Christmas Lodge, Teeny Tiny Wishes
CS- Cherry Cobbler
Ink- Cherry Cobbler
Accessories- Cherry Cobbler Quilted Satin Ribbon, Modern Label and Word Window Punches

Mummy

2011-10-27T08:12:00.000-07:00

I got this mummy card at Convention 2010. It was made by Jenny Fulton from Grand Rapids, MN. I thought it was cute and very creative so I wanted to share it.

Greeting Card Kids II

2011-10-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

I received this swap card last year at Convention. It was made by Linda Madison. She did a wonderful job coloring the little witchy.

The second card was done by Amy Fecteau who was my roommate at Convention 2010. We participated in the same swap. Her card base is embossed using the Vintage Wallpaper Embossing folder. She also added a decorative antique brad.

SPOOKY!!!!!! Part 2

2011-10-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here are close-ups of each pendant.

SPOOKY!!!!!!

2011-10-23T08:03:00.000-07:00

I have decided to decorate my fireplace, which is in my stamping studio, for the holidays. I have not ever made a banner so I thought it was a great place to start. I used what I had, some discontinued Halloween DSP and supplemented with coordinating colors. I used punch art by Lorre Reibin, found on SplitcoastStampers, as embellishments and just had fun!

Baby Card

2011-10-12T17:14:00.000-07:00

My daughter is hosting a baby shower and wanted a special card. I wanted to do something unique and since it did not have to be mailed, it could have 3-D items. I love the little clothespins and the picket fence. I hope she likes it!

Supplies:
Stamp Sets- Baby Tees Jumbo Wheel, Curvy Verses
CS- Marina Mist, Whisper White, Wild Wasabi, Calypso Coral
Ink- Basic Black, Marina Mist
Accessories- Clothespins, Pearls, White Baker's Twine, Chipboard

Halloween

2011-09-27T18:25:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have not posted in awhile. I have not felt like stamping. I was inspired to make this after seeing Mary Brown's project on her blog Stamper Camper's Corner.

I love Halloween and had so much fun making this! I started with a frame I purchased from a major large box store. Using the insert from the frame as my template, I cut out various pieces of DSP that I already had to use as background paper. I used the Serif Essentials Alphabet and my Big Shot to cut out the letters from chipboard. I covered each letter with Basic Black card stock, some of which I embossed using embossing folders. I used various punches to decorate each letter and Voila! my latest Halloween project.

Always Thankful

2011-09-07T18:09:00.000-07:00

School is going well and I like getting back into my routine. It seems that summer was so long ago. I come home tired and not too motivated to stamp, hence, not many postings!

As soon as I saw this stamp set in the new Holiday Mini Catalog (p. 19), I knew I had to have it. I enjoyed coloring it in. I have always had difficulty brayering the sky yet wanted the background to be sky like. I used sponges! It was so easy to do and I got the effect that I wanted. I first sponged Tempting Turquoise then sponged Not Quite Navy part way down. I made sure my edges were a bit darker.

I also made a faux button. I cut 5 buttons using the Buttons #5 Sizzlits Die. I carefully glued them on top of each other lining up the button holes. Next I used Crystal Effects over the top and let dry on a piece of wax paper. When dry, I used linen thread.

Supplies-
Stamp Set: Always Thankful
Paper: Not Quite Navy, Cajun Craze, Very Vanilla, Regal DSP
Ink: Stazon Black, Tempting Turquoise, Not Quite Navy, Old Olive
Accessories: Watercolor Pencils, Crystal Effects

Box 6

2011-08-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

This is the last box. Around the edge of the sun is Dazzling Details, Stampin' Ups! new glitter is a bottle. It has a narrow tip which allows for precise application and no mess! The sentiment is from the stamp set Pursuit of Happiness.

Box 5

2011-08-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

This a neat box. The birds are hanging on Baker's Twine. I also like the tree and how it uses texture.

Box 4 and I am Officially back to school!

2011-08-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

It is official- the school year for teachers has begun. Please do not get me wrong. I love my job, however, I had a wonderful summer and it is always an adjustment to get back in the school routine. There is not as much time to stamp and read now (another of my passions!).
Box 4 uses the chipboard cloud from the previous box covered with Whisper White card stock cut using the Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border cut in half. Again, the 2011- 2012 In Colors were used.

Box 3

2011-08-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite box. The fence is made out of real wood and white washed. I love the clouds. I used the negative from the On Board Merry Medley clouds as a template and sponged White Craft Ink and Frost White Shimmer Paint. The flowers are on floral wire so they pop out.

Box 2

2011-08-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here is box number 2. Again it uses the border stamp from Borderlines and the In Colors. The banner hangs on Baker's Twine with little bows in each corner!

Box 1

2011-08-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

This is an enlargement of box 1. I particularly like the border at the bottom. It is from the stamp set Borderlines. A vellum layer is on top of the 2nd butterfly. Baker's Twine is the body of the butterfly and the antennae.

Every Last Detail

2011-08-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Stampin" Up! offered 3 additional classes during Convention on Friday night. This was something new. Tracy and I chose the class "Every Last Detail". We got the supplies to make each of the 6 scenes in this tray. It was very time consuming and each box took at least 1 hour to complete. Needless to say I finished mine at home. It was fun to use new products and create something different. It featured the 5 new In Colors. Box 3 is my favorite.

Stampin' Card Keeper

2011-08-15T07:03:00.000-07:00

Here is another project I made at Convention. This box will be in the new Holiday Mini Catalog to be released September 1st. Although it is more elaborate than I tend to be, it is a sturdy card holder with pizazz! The top is covered with fabric and it comes with a pattern to make covering it a breeze. Inside are five dividers which are also decorated. It certainly beats the shoeboxes I have used to store my card samples!

Storage

2011-08-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

I bought this card catalog at an auction many years ago. It holds an amazing amount of supplies. It is a little beat up but I think it is charming. Above are cubes that hold my 12" by 12" card stock.

Ribbon Holder

2011-08-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

How do you like my new ribbon holders? They are made using vinyl rain gutters! They were cheap to make and the length can be customized. I now have my ribbon arranged by color. It is so much easier to get what I need.
This idea is not original, however, I apologize to the creative person who thought of this. I found the idea on SplitcoastStampers.

Raining Flowers

2011-08-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

This is a close-up of one of the make and takes. I love the "it's your day" down the right side. I used the Stamp-a-ma-jig to make them line up.

Supplies:
Stamps- Raining Flowers, It's Your Day
CS- Old Olive, Whisper White
Ink- Old Olive, Island Indigo, Cherry Cobbler, More Mustard
Accessories- II Ruffled Ribbon, Old Olive 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Pearls, stampler

More Stamping Room Pictures

2011-08-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

I already had the desk and L shaped space. The "L" is easier now to keep clear with the additional new workspace. Above are plastic drawers with all of my 8-1/2' by 11" card stock. I like to have all the colors on hand so I am not limited. My laptop sits on my desk and along with my all purpose printer. My super duper professional printer is next to to the "L". It is so big that I could not use it. Now it is in a great location.

Convention Projects

2011-08-02T09:26:00.000-07:00

This was one of my make and take projects at Convention. I needed to finish it at home since I never seem to finish when at Convention. I love the Old Olive and Cheery Cobbler flowered card. Details to follow.

Artistic Etchings

2011-07-21T08:00:00.001-07:00

I never really liked this stamp set. Then I saw this amazing cards. I love the background. From what I can tell, the butterflies were stamped first, colored in, then masked. En Francais was stamped next then blue ink was lightly sponged to give a sky effect. What a beautiful card. I wish I could give credit to the artist who created it.

Inspired by Nature

2011-07-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here is another card from Convention. It was on the display boards. I liked the color combination and the little punched out flowers.

Baby Bundle

2011-07-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

I thought this was a lovely card. It was on the display boards at Convention. There are no names or directions posted. I do know that is from the stamp set Baby Bundle.
At Convention, Stampin' Up! has a lot of display boards set up arranged with cards and other projects demonstrators have submitted through out the year. They are arranged by color and there are thousands of cards displayed for inspiration. Everyone takes lots of pictures to take home the fabulous ideas. This year, my bee hive card was up there. I was so proud! This is the second year in a row i have had a card on display at Convention.

Shelli Gardener

2011-07-19T05:12:00.000-07:00

This is me with Shelli Gardener the co-founder and CEO of Stampin' Up! I waited in line during lunch to have my picture taken with her and a brief chat. Tracy, my roommate, decided to have lunch instead. It was such a short line. Who would have imagined I would wait for over an hour? You probably are asking yourself if I have rocks in my head? Let me explain. Shelli is such a down to earth person. What you see is what she is. She is one of the most gracious women I have ever met. She does not hurry you at all when you are with her. She places family first. Her values are right on. Yes, it was worth the wait!

Summer Solstice

2011-07-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

I did not have a chance to use this as a swap. I just got too busy! This card features the new In-Color Wisteria Wonder. The flowers were stamped in Cherry Cobbler. Gotta love the Color Coach because I never would have used these colors together!

Supplies:
Summer Solstice
CS- Pink Pirouette, Wisteria Wonder, Whisper White
Ink- Cherry Cobbler, Wisteria Wonder
Accessories- Wisteria Wonder ribbon, Pearls, Framed Tulips embossing folder

Convention

2011-07-15T20:40:00.000-07:00

I am in Salt Lake City at Stampin' Up!'s annual Convention. This is my 8th Convention and I have lots of great and special swaps to share with you when I get back Sunday night. It is a wonderful experience and one that I look forward to each year. I will share more with you later. Until Sunday night!

Field Flowers

2011-07-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Although it may be difficult to see, I embossed the top half of the black paper using Perfect Polka Dots then embossed the bottom using Vintage Wallpaper. Where the two meet added a pearl on each side. I am using this card as one of my swaps!

Supplies:
Field Flowers
CS- Pool Party, Black, Whisper White
Ink- Pool Party, Lucky Limeade
Accessories- Embossing Folders: Perfect Polka Dot and Vintage Wallpaper

Designer Series Paper (DSP)

2011-07-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Jill Olsen demonstrated how to make this kind of card on her blog. It does not open like a regular card. The Designer Series Paper is attached to a flap that lifts up and reveals a place for the message.

Supplies:
Stamp sets- Sincere Salutations, Posy Punch
CS- Pacific Point, Wild Wasabi, Whisper White, Beyond the Garden DSP
Ink- Pacific Point, Wild Wasabi
Accessories- Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder, Fancy Flower Punch

Snow Much Fun 2

2011-07-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here is another card made from the Stamp Set Snow Much Fun. I cased the snowman from the new Idea Book and Catalog. I loved the antiqued look of it then changed it to suit this layout. The layout is from this week's Splitcoast Stampers' Card Sketch. I find I can create more easily if I have a layout as a guideline.

Supplies:
Stamp Set- Snow Much Fun
Ink- Soft Suede
CS- Not Quite Navy, Crumb Cake, Poppy Parade DSP, Confetti Cream
Accessories- Poppy Parade re-inker: Not Quite Navy, More Mustard watercolor crayons; Watercolor Pencils, Blender Pen

Snow Much Fun 1

2011-07-07T12:09:00.000-07:00

I have finally put most of my things away and now have a large space to stamp on. I absolutely love my new space!!! I have been making my swaps for Convention and this one is from the set Snow Much Fun ( I made 20 of these). Stampin' Up! retired my favorite snowmen stamps so I was thrilled to see this one in the new catalog. As a demonstrator I was able to pre-order it and could not wait to play.

Supplies:
Stamps- Snow Much Fun, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Ink-Black Stazon
CS- Not Quite Navy, Baja Breeze, Whisper White
Accessories- Watercolor Pencils, Blender Pen, Northern Flurry Embossing Folder, Punches

One of Fifty

2011-07-02T15:43:00.000-07:00

I disliked the original picture so decided that I would change it out once my computer was repaired. After I did that, I lost all of the previous posting!!! Oh well...... I made this shadow box as my swap for the Dinner and Holiday Swap that is this Tuesday, July 12th at 7:00. This is the first unofficial event of Stampin' Up!'s Convention in Salt Lake City for me. We had to choose a holiday other than Christmas and make a card or 3-D project. Most people will chose non-traditional holidays such as Dictionary Day (in October I believe) or Penguin Awareness Day (January 20th). Since Halloween is my favorite non-religious holiday (I consider it a day of harmless fun), I chose it for my swap.

No, I am not missing!

2011-06-21T18:11:00.000-07:00

Between my workspace still not together and finishing up the school year, I have not done much stamping nor blogging. School gets out this Friday. One of the first things I want to do is post to my blog. See you this weekend!

Strength & Hope

2011-06-05T15:57:00.000-07:00

This is my first creation in my new stamping room! I am still unpacking but I love my new room. I have a lovely seating area, work space, and separate stamping space. Hopefully I will put everything away by next weekend.

When making this card, I tried a couple of different color combinations. The lighter colors just did not have the pop that I thought this card should have. I used my brayer and added Crumb Cake ink to the flat inside of the Flower Garden embossing folder. Next I took Very Vanilla card stock and ran it through my Big Shot. I trimmed it and mounted it on Crumb Cake. I used a piece of Poppy Parade DSP and mounted it on a card base of Crumb Cake. I stamped the butterflies in Poppy Parade, cut them out, and added pearls.
I made a little banner with happy birthday stamped on it, cut the ends in a "V", then added a pearl. I attached the butterflies with Dimensionals. The wonderful thing about this stamp set is Stampin' Up! is donating $2 for every set sold to Breast Cancer Research!

Supplies-
Stamp Set: Strength & Hope
Ink: Crumb Cake, Poppy Parade
Paper: Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla, DSP from the In Color Assortment
Accessories: Flower Garden embossing folder, Pearls, Dimensionals

My Stamping Room

2011-05-29T04:57:00.000-07:00

After much thought and discussion, I am switching rooms with my husband. I have out grown my beautiful but little stamping room. We have hired movers to help us switch out the rooms. I am now packing everything in anticipation. I hope to be stamping again by midweek. When my room is done, I will post pictures. Hope to post soon!

On Your Birthday

2011-05-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

I thought this was a fun card. It uses the Elegant Lines embossing folder and flowers from the Big Shot die Blossom Party. The stamp set is On Your Birthday

Love & Care

2011-05-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Love & Care is a level 2 Hostess set in the Summer Mini Catalog. This was a fast and easy card.

Strength & Hope

2011-05-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

My downline, Tracy, designed this card. She used the Strength & Hope stamp set. Stampin' Up! is donating $2 to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. This was one of my favorite cards from the swap.

Shoebox Swaps

2011-05-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here are some simple but pretty cards I made at the shoebox swap.

Pinwheel Swap

2011-05-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

This lovely card was designed by Christyann Rothmel. Start with 2 squares 2 3/4" by 2 3/4". Place one square with the corners at 12 and six o'clock. The other is attached on top with the top and bottom edges horizontal. Alternate DSP 1 1/4" squares and attach on the base.

Shoebox Swap

2011-05-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

This card utilizes the DSP Beyond the Garden found in the Summer Mini Catalog. The background was embossed first using Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder. The 2 flowers in the front have a pearl in the center. I am sorry I do not know who designed this beautiful card, I did enjoy making it.

Shoebox Swap

2011-05-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

This is one card made at the shoebox swap. I am sorry I did not get the name of the person who created it. I thought it was cute and simple and it reminded me of another sign that spring is finally here!

Shoebox Swap and more Fabulous Florets

2011-05-15T14:26:00.000-07:00

Saturday I attended a shoebox swap in Nashua. I demonstrated this card which features the technique polished stone and the bow made with a brad. I CASE'd this card from Mary Brown aka Stamper Camper's Corner. She is a talented stamper whose style I just love- simple and with many layers.

My water colored Fabulous Florets in Certainly Celery, Baja Breeze, and Bashful Blue was voted the prettiest card! I was so pleased.

Supplies:
Stamp Set- Fabulous Florets
Ink- Pacific Point, Bashful Blue, Stazon, Wild Wasabi
Paper- Whisper White, Glossy, Daffodil Delight
Accessories- Brad, Reinkers, Daffodil Delight Ribbon

Touch Of Kindness

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

This is another stamp set I am loving- Touch of Kindness. I think it is so cute and again it reminds me that spring is here (???- in New Hampshire one never knows!) I used Dimensionals to pop up the cat and butterfly.

Supplies:
Stamp Set- Touch of Kindness
Ink- Stazon Black
Paper- Whisper White, pacific Point
Accessories- Framed Tulip Embossing Folder, Watercolor Pencils, Blender pen, Dimentionals

More, More, More

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

I used the Color Combinations from the Splitcoast Stamper's Tuesday Challenge. I would never have thought to use Baja Breeze, Bashful Blue, and Certainly Celery. I stamped on Watercolor Paper with Stazon Black. Then I colored in using markers and went over it with an Aqua Painter for a watercolor effect. I mounted it on Certainly Celery paper then on an embossed piece of Baja Breeze. My card base was Certainly Celery. After I attached some ribbon, I thought it was too plain, so I made two more flowers, cut them out, and attached using Dimensionals.

Supplies:
Stamp Set- Fabulous Florets
Ink- Stazon Black
Paper- Watercolor, Certainly Celery, Baja Breeze
Accessories- Framed Tulips Embossing Folder, Certainly Celery Ribbon, Markers (Certainly Celery, Baja Breeze, Bashful Blue), Aqua Painter

More fabulous Florets

2011-05-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

This was a card I received from my one of my downline, Tracy. She always does such nice work. She heat embossed the flowers using Gold Embossing powder. She did some sponging using Pumpkin Pie and Daffodil Delight. I love how she made multiple scalloped layers. Great job Tracy!

Fabulous Florets

2011-05-01T08:37:00.000-07:00

Fabulous Florets from the Summer Mini Catalog is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. Maybe it is because I am using all springy color combinations. Whatever the reason, I know I am having fun playing with this stamp set. Isn't that what stamping is all about?

I used the technique of Ink Embossing. I inked up the recessed side of the embossing folder with Crumb Cake then placed Very Vanilla paper in it. It gives it a nice antiqued effect with little work. I did not have any Melon Mambo ribbon. Instead I used white and colored it using a Melon Mambo marker.

Supplies:
Stamp Set- Fabulous Florets
Paper- Very Vanilla, Melon Mambo, Old Olive
Ink- Melon Mambo, Old Olive, Crumb Cake
Accessories- Antique Brad, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder

An award!

2011-04-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

I received this award from Kari Elmer-Rodgers in Clearfield, Utah. She has the blog www.pigtailone.blogspot.com. I am amazed at how many people have found my blog and are following it. I feel very honored to have had so many viewers and wonderful comments. Thank you Kari and all my other viewers.

Now I need to tell 7 things about me.

1. My stamp room is always messy. I am in the process of moving it to a larger room. This will take awhile.
2. I love all my "toys". Of course I have lots of stamping toys but I also love my NOOK, iPad, and my Android phone.
3. I have a small water garden that is my pride and joy.
4. I am a special education teacher. I love what I do, however, I do look forward to my summer vacation to relax and rejuvenate.
5. One of my vices is having my nails done.
6. I enjoy living in New Hampshire 11 months out of the year. Right now I am tired of the snow (yes, we had snow just this last Saturday) and would love to see spring flowers and feel some more warmth!!!!
7. I want to learn how to use my camera on the manual settings and not leave it on auto.

Now I need to pass this award on.
I just found these blogs and love their style.
Lauri Ingram

Elaine Uhl

Another Sneak Preview

2011-04-23T09:41:00.000-07:00

I am sorry for the lack of posts this week. Life happens. The good thing is I have this coming week off! Yeah vacation!!!!!
This is another Sneak Preview from the soon to be Summer Mini Catalog. The set is Fabulous Florets. I played around with different color combinations and ended up using just Whisper White and Pacific Point. I created a One Sheet Wonder- randomly stamped an 8 1/2" by 11" piece of Whisper White, then cut to size.

Stamp Set- Fabulous Florets
Paper- Whisper White, Pacific Point
Ink- Pacific Point
Punch- Scallop Edge Border

Sneak Preview- Touch of Kindness

2011-04-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a sneak preview from the Summer Mini Catalog available starting May 1st thru August 31st. The stamp set is Touch of Kindness. I love how there is some coloring to do but not an over whelming amount. I chose bright colors to give a summery look. I did not have any brads the correct color so I made my own "Faux" brads. I used the 1/4" Circle Punch to cut out my "brad" and placed each of them on a glue dot. Next I squeezed a dab of Crystal Effects on top and let them dry. Voila- Faux Brads!

Supplies:
Stamp Set- Touch of Kindness
Paper- Pacific Point, Whisper White, Daffodil Delight, DSP Daffodil Delight
Ink- Black Stazon
Accessories- Watercolor Pencils, Blender Pen, 3/4" Circle Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals, Crystal Efects

Nature Walk VI

2011-04-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a set of thank you note cards I made at Regionals. It has its own card holder (a 7" x 7" piece of cs scored at 3 1/2" in both directions). We had a chance to use the Botanical Gazette DSP and seam binding which I had not used before. I have not been too daring to stamp directly on DSP and I do like the results.

Take a Spin

2011-04-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here is another card I received at Regionals. It was made by Laura Bauer. I love her color combinations. The spinner really works!

Nature Walk V

2011-04-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

My friend and downline, Tracy Tarr made this lovely card for the swap at Regionals. Her stamping style is different than mine and I always love what she does. I know she used Glossy White CS and applied the ink directly to the paper using multiple colors. Next she stamped the leafy image on top. Using Vellum, she stamped the bird and colored it in. She added the bow then layered the card. Nice job Tracy!
PS- Tracy is going to be my roommate at Convention in July! Can't wait.

Easter Blossoms

2011-04-09T17:00:00.000-07:00

I saw so many lovely cards with this stamp set I decided to take the plunge! I was inspired by Mary Brown on Splitcoast Stampers. I changed the colors and instead of using DSP, I used Faux Mother of Pearl. For this technique, use cling wrap that is balled up and dab it in Shimmer Frost White Paint. Tap some off, then dab on card stock. Once it is dry sponge ink over it in a circular motion. In my case I used Pretty in Pink. I also used the "Fork" technique to make my perfect bow! I always have been tying impaired so was very happy to learn how to make a bow at Stampin" Up!'s Regional in Hartford.

Supplies-
Stamp- Easter Blossoms from Occasions Mini
Card Stock- Rich Razzleberry, Pretty in Pink, Whisper White
Ink- Rick Razzleberry, Pretty in Pink
Accessories- Rich Razzleberry Ribbon, # 2 Circle Scallop Die, Circle Scissor Plus, Pearl, Frost White Shimmer Paint

Peace Within Swap

2011-04-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

This card is also from Regionals in Hartford. It was done by Melanie Meier. I have always liked the stamp set Peace Within, but it involves a lot of coloring (I love to color, don't get me wrong!). Melanie showed that you don't always need to color line art. The images and matting on the square are all raised using Dimensionals. I have not yet figured out how she punched out the basket in a star shape. I will have have to experiment.

Supplies-
Stamp Sets- Peace Within, Three Little Words
Card Stock- Concord Crush, Marina Mist, Very Vanilla
Ink- Concord Crush
Accessories- Vanilla Seam Binding, Square Lattice Embossing folder, Pinking Hearts Corner Punch, Slot Punch

Homegrown

2011-04-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

This was a swap I received from Rebecca Baker from the Hartford Regionals. I have never been interested in this stamp et, however, something about this card really appeals to me. The stamping is very crisp and the colors go together so well. She first stamped the label then restamped it and cut out around "Homegrown" and mount it with Dimensionals. She also faintly stamped on the Cherry Cobbler background but I can't tell what the image is. The Always Artichoke mat was embossed using one of the Perfect Details texturz Plates.
Very nice Rebecca and thanks for swapping with me.

Nature Walk- IV

2011-04-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

This was another of our Make and Takes. The part that I thought was clever is, the background is not striped DSP but rather the top half of the Old Olive card stock is run through a crimper after the bird house is stamped.
Supplies-
Card Stock- Old Olive, Naturals Ivory, Early Espresso
Ink- Early Espresso, Old Olive (pads and markers), Marina Mist (marker)
Accessories- Old Olive taffeta ribbon, Doted Scallop Ribbon Punch, Crimper

Yo-Yo

2011-03-31T16:28:00.000-07:00

This was demonstrated at Regionals. It shows how versatile the Big Shot is. Using an Original Circle Die, you can cut out up to 8 pieces of material at a time. I used the 3" circle, gathered it using needle and thread, and inserted a 1 3/8" piece of punched out card stock. I pulled the gathers tight and secured the thread. In the center I used an Antique Brad. The scalloped rectangular piece of Rose Red card stock was cut out using the Scalloped Square Die. After I cut out the square, I moved the card stock over, aligning it from the top and bottom and inserted it through the Big Shot again. Voila!- a rectangle.

Supplies-
Card Stock- Very Vanilla, Pear Piazzazz, Rose Red, DSP In Colors
Accessories- Springtime Vintage Designer Fabric, Very Vanilla Seam Binding

Nature Walk- III

2011-03-30T08:00:00.000-07:00


This was another Make and Take. I had not yet had the opportunity to use the Rosettes. I dyed it by first wetting it using an Aqua Painter then adding color with Cherry Cobbler Marker.

Nature Walk- II

2011-03-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

This was one of the swaps I received. Unfortunately there was no name identifying the talented stamper.

Supplies
Card Stock- Chocolate Chip, Pear Pizzazz, Natural Ivory,
Inks- Always Artichoke, Soft Suede, More Mustard
Accessories- Chocolate Chip ribbon, Dazzling Diamonds

Nature Walk

2011-03-26T16:36:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been a busy couple of weeks! There was Stampin' Up!'s Regional in Hartford, swaps to make, report cards to complete, and life.
This was one of the Make and takes we did. I loved how we also stamped matching envelopes.

Stamp Set- Nature Walk
Card Stock- Natural Ivory, Cherry Cobbler, Not Quite Navy, Botanical Gazette DSP
Ink- Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler, Not Quite Navy, Champagne Mist Shimmery Paint
Accessories - Crumb Cake Seam Binding, Pearl, Color Spritzer Tool, Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack

Just Believe 2

2011-03-17T19:09:00.000-07:00

Last weekend at my Club meeting, there was a lovely napkin with lots of bright colors. It inspired me to change out the colors in my first card and try these. I am using this updated card as my swap for Stampin' Up!'s Regional in Hartford, CT this weekend.

Stamp Set- Just Believe
Paper- Real Red, Tempting Turquoise, Wild Wasabi, Very Vanilla
Accessories- Pastels, Word Window Large, Modern label, Square Lattice embossing folder

Just Believe

2011-03-13T17:35:00.000-07:00

I just love this stamp set! I decided to take it out of the closet and use it with a technique I have not used in awhile- Poppin' Pastels. I recently got all of Stampin'Ups! new colors in pastels and it was time to use them. After matting it on Daffodil Delightful, I ran it through my Big Shot using the Square lattice embossing folder to add texture.

Supplies
Stamp- Just Believe
Paper- Certainly Celery, Daffodil Delightful, Whisper White, Old Olive
Ink- VersaMark, Daffodil Delightful
Accessories- Word Window Large, Modern Label Extra-Large, Pastels

Vacation

2011-03-08T18:19:00.000-08:00

Sorry I have not been posting, however, I have been away on a cruise. It was so nice to leave cold and snowy New Hampshire for the much warmer and sunny Caribbean. This was taken in San Juan. We toured the city on Segways and had so much fun. I want my own now!!!! Not sure I have anywhere to ride it though.

Fifth Avenue

2011-03-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

My mom made this card for me earlier on my birthday. She is one of my stamping ladies. She used the embossing technique first then misted the flower well. Next, using the aqua painter, she add ink from a reinker and it created this lovely flower. Colors used were Regal Rose and Rose Red. The leaves were cut from the Big Shot. She even sponged the background. Nice job Mom!

Build a Blossom ??

2011-03-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, this card was made using the Build a Blossom stamp set from the Occasions Mini catalog. Look closely and you can see the petal leaf and the fins are the smaller petal. I cannot take credit for this very creative use and design. I made it at our Newstampshires meeting last Saturday. Christie Fearon's boy friend is the creator. We used the gel pen to add eyes and the oval scallop and small oval to make and accent the opening. Colors used were Marina Mist, Tempting Turquoise and Pumpkin Pie.

My Digital Studio

2011-03-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

I prefer physically getting my hands on glorious papers and rich colored inks. However, it is fun to try a digital card now and then. This is my first creation. It was not difficult and since I already designed it, I ordered a few to keep on hand.

Pocket Silhouettes

2011-02-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

I made this card at an up line meeting last summer. It was quick and easy yet featured a different fold. First you stamp the entire front card in Rose Red. Next you fold the front in at the mid point, fold inward, and adhere it together. Next add the solid Rose Red paper and Designer Series Paper. Stamp your image and adhere . Add ribbon. Punch the edge with the Scallop Border Punch and stamp your sentiment. Voila!- a different card.

Stylish Blogger Award

2011-02-26T04:51:00.000-08:00

Susan Byington, a fellow Stampin' Up! demonstrator, awarded me this award. It means so much to me coming from another demonstrator. You can visit her blog at http://sendingsmilesacrossthemiles.blogspot.com/

I need to list 8 facts about me.

1. I am almost an empty nester. One is gone and the other one, the baby, will be 21 in a few months and is away at college.

2. I love dark bold colors to decorate with. My kitchen is Cranberry Crisp (a retired Stampin' Up! in-color)

3. I am still, after numerous classes, leaving my camera setting on auto!

4. I have been married almost 32 years to my best friend, Rich.

5. I like the winter until March. I would never move to Florida.

6. I spend way too much time looking at blogs instead of stamping.

7. I also spend too much time play Rainy Day Spider, an on-line game!

8. I keep rearranging my stamp room trying to come up with the most space.

Thank you again, Susan.

Baby Card with color blocking

2011-02-20T17:36:00.000-08:00

This weekend I attended the quarterly business luncheon meeting of the New Stampshires, a Stampin' Up! group under Kristi Stoughton. We talked, discussed the new career plan, swapped, did a make and take, and of course ate. This was one of the cards someone shared. I am sorry I cannot give credit to her. I thought it was well done.

Onesie

2011-02-15T19:17:00.000-08:00

My daughter asked me to make her a baby card for a shower this Saturday. I have made several but have not been pleased at all. She got one of those towels that are hooded in a cat motif as a gift. I decided to make a onesie and add a little kitty. It still looked pretty plain so I took it apart, put it in a Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder and put it through my Big Shot. It helped. I hope she likes it.

Supplies:

Card Stock- Pink Pirouette, Whisper White
Ink- Stazon Black, Pink Pirouette
Stamp set- unknown incentive stamp

Fast and Easy

2011-02-09T08:00:00.000-08:00

When I need a fast and easy card, I immediately think of this one! I have made it in numerous color combinations and changed out the greeting.

Supplies:
Stamp Sets- Sincere Salutations, Flight of the Butterfly
Card Stock- Regal Rose, Rose Red, Shimmery White
Ink- Rose red
Accessories- Elegant Bouquet embossing folder, Stampin' Dimentionals

Just Buzzin' By

2011-02-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

When I first saw this stamp set, I just had to have it. I made a few cards but nothing special. Then I thought of this layout. I made this for an organized swap for Stampin' Up!'s Convention last summer. A friend and I cut out over 90 individual bees for it. I used watercolor paper and Watercolor Pencils with a blender pen. I am not always pleased with my cards, however, this is one of my all time favorites.

Simple Friendship II

2011-02-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

Another CASED (Copy and Steal/Share Everything) card. This one is from Splitcoast Stamper member brandycox.
I changed the card size and did not stamp the background as much. This was a quick and easy card that shows how versatile this stamp set is.

Supplies:
Stamp Set- Simple Friendship
Card Stock- Marina Mist, Crumb Cake, Whisper White
Ink- Marina Mist, Crumb Cake
Accessories- Jewels Basic Rhinestones, Stampin' Dimensionals

Simple Friendship

2011-02-03T08:00:00.001-08:00

I needed some inspiration using this stamp set and turned to Splitcoast Stampers. I found a lovely card by Ocicat aka Donna Heber . I tweaked it a bit and Voila! Here it is. I think we will make this Saturday (weather permitting) with my Newport Ladies. I sponged River Rock to age the card then used the Color Spritzer Tool with a Chocolate Chip marker. I then layered the butterfly and three flowers adhering them with Stampin' Dimensionals.
Supplies:
Stamp Sets- Simple Friendship, Teeny Tiny Wishes
Card Stock- Chocolate Chip, Pink Pirouette, Very Vanilla, River Rock
Ink- Chocolate Chip, Pretty in Pink
Accessories- Jewels, sponges, Color Spritzer Tool, Chocolate Chip marker

Peace Within II

2011-02-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

I am trying to use a stamp set more than a few times to really get my money's worth. Again, I stamped this last summer and colored the image with Watercolor Pencils then used a blender pen. I think of all the coloring choices, I like these pencils the best. I am even on my second set!

Supplies:
Card Stock- Marina Mist, Bashful Blue, Whisper White, Subtles DSP
Ink- Stazon Black
Accessories- Subtles Brads, Watercolor Pencils, Blender Pens, Scallop Punch

Peace Within

2011-01-30T18:38:00.000-08:00

I love the Wednesday Card Sketches on Splitcoast Stampers. When I need inspiration I go there and look at the different sketches. Seeing a new layout usually helps me get started. This was the case for this card. It does not really look like the sketch, however, it was all I needed. I had stamped and colored this in previously but had never done any more with it. I used those "other" expensive markers. The rest of the supplies are all Stampin' Up! I used Julie Buhler's idea (her blog is Paper Pleasing) of punching 3 circles each, adhering them together, then adding Crystal Effects to make a faux brad.

Supplies:
Card Stock- Cajun Craze, Chocolate Chip, Neutral Crumb Cake DSP

A Blog Award

2011-01-27T14:35:00.000-08:00

When I started blogging I started a "Blogger's Support Group" on Splitcoast Stampers. We check each others' blogs out on a regular basis and offer encouragement. Donna Heber has been faithfully checking out our blogs and leaving very nice comments. She has given me this award along with some of the others in our group- New Kids on the Blog. Please check out her blog and the others in our group. I think you will find a variety of styles and plenty of inspiration. Thank you Donna. Donna's Designs

Now I need to list 8 things about me.

1. I needed my son's help when I started my blog. He is my technical support.
2. I like to play Spider Solitaire on line.
3. I have an inactive stuffed bear collection.
4. I have a very hyperactive Springer Spaniel named Frye. Even my vet agrees.
5. I love chocolate.
6. One of my vices is having my nails done. I like them a little on the long side and red.
7. I have recently been introduced to Country music and now listen to it on my ipod.
8. My husband and I have been married for 32 years this March.

Polished Stone

2011-01-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

I made this card as an organized swap for Stampin' Up!'s Convention last July. I used the technique Polished Stone. In the past, I had always used a metallic reinker. Unfortunately Stampin' Up! discontinued them. I substituted Champagne Mist Shimmery Paint and it worked just as well. Basically you make a large sheet using this technique then use it as needed. Starting with Glossy White Paper, put some Shimmery Mist Paint on a cotton ball and randomly dab the entire paper. Next saturate a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol. Add several drops of Pumpkin Pie, More Mustard, Tangerine Tango, and Real Red re-inkers. Dab onto the Glossy White Paper starting in one corner and completely covering the surface. Let dry. Stamp Upsy Daisy using VersaMark Ink. Dip in Black Embossing Powder, heat set. Mat on Basic Black then Pumpkin Pie. Add Black taffeta Ribbon. I often forget to wipe the surface with the Embossing Buddy prior to stamping with VersaMark and covering with embossing powder. This is critical when using black embossing powder.

Eat Chocolate

2011-01-25T19:15:00.000-08:00

The title says it all. There are few things in life better than chocolate!

Supplies:
Stamp Set: Eat Chocolate
Paper: Very Vanilla, Chocolate Chip, Pretty in Pink, DSP Chocolate Chip
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Scallop Edge Border Punch, Decorative Label Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals

A cold side note

2011-01-25T18:00:00.000-08:00

As in many parts of the country, it has been cold! Monday morning when I got up this is what greeted me. Most days I love living in New Hampshire. It was questionable at that moment.

Morning Cup

2011-01-23T19:08:00.000-08:00

I had to return my Nook because it was not working properly. I was able to upgrade to the NookColor. My oh my! I loved my old Nook but the new one is fabulous! I guess I have been in reading world this past week and have neglected my stamping. Sorry.

I am not really a tea drinker. Nor do I like coffee. However, my daughter introduced me to lattes and now I am hooked. Mocha lattes are my "Morning Cup".

Supplies:
Stamp Set: Morning Cup
Card Stock: Very Vanilla, Watercolor paper, Rose Red,Not Quite Navy, River Rock, Pear Pizzazz, Springrime Vintage DSP
Accessories: Clearlits Scallop Rectangle, White Ribbon colored with Pear Pizzazz marker

Simply Adorned

2011-01-17T18:40:00.000-08:00

This is my first attempt with a Simply Adorned pendant. I wanted to use my initial. I used the Charming and Lovely Letters stamp sets. I stamped the background in black and added my initial K in Cherry Cobbler. Then I sponged So Saffron and Soft Suede. I used a piece of black DSP and the Embosslits Beautiful Wings die. I added a pearl and adhered it with a Stampin' Dimensional.

Close as a Memory

2011-01-12T19:13:00.000-08:00

I needed another sympathy card. Someone at work lost her twin sister. I cannot imagine what she is going through.
I used Early Espresso as the base and then layered Soft Suede on top. On the right I used a small piece of Marina Mist and on the left another piece of Early Espresso. Next I used Marina Mist wide striped ribbon. I stamped the flowers from Close as a Memory onto watercolor paper using my new watercolor crayons. I used the the stamp from Teeny Tiny Wishes for the greeting on watercolor paper and punched it out.

Build a Blossom II

2011-01-09T16:40:00.000-08:00

We made this card today with my Newport Ladies. I took the basic design from the cover of the Occasions Mini Catalog but did not have all the necessary supplies so I improvised! I love the color combination- Not Quite Navy, Peach Parfait, and Wild Wasabi. We used the new Framed Tulips textured embossing folder as well as the Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder. We used Cajun Craze ink on the Peach Parfait for the petals.

Can you believe I forgot the SNAIL adhesive? Luckily my mom lived next door and I ran (OK I drove) over and got some! Thank goodness for mothers!!!!!!!

Build a Blossom

2011-01-07T14:59:00.000-08:00

I needed a quick birthday card last night. I had not yet used the new Build a Blossom stamp set and coordinating punch from the new Occasions Mini Catalog. I think I will be using it a lot! After stamping on Marina Mist with Bashful Blue, I punched out all of the blossoms. How quick and easy! For the center I used Rose Red on Rose Red card stock and punched it out using a 1" Circle punch. I love how Stampin' Up! has so many punches that do the cutting instead of me. Last summer, for one of my Convention swaps, I cut out over 90 bees. Too bad they did not have a punch for those.
I embossed Certainly Celery card stock using the the Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder and mounted it on Chocolate Chip. I added a band of Bashful Blue card stock down the center with a piece of Certainly Celery ribbon. Next I added a layer of flat petals. On top of that I added curled petals using glue dots. I added the center using a Stampin' Dimensional. Happy Birthday is from the stamp set Teeny Tiny Wishes.
The basic design is taken from the cover of the Occasions Mini Catalog.

Thoughts and Prayers II

2011-01-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, one of my friends at school lost her mother recently. I needed another sympathy card. I wanted it different than the other one I made with this stamp set.

Supplies:
Stamp set: Thoughts and Prayers
Card stock: Whisper White and Always Artichoke
Ink: Always Artichoke and Old Olive
Accessories: Always Artichoke ribbon and Scallop Trim Border punch

Thoughts and Prayers

2011-01-02T18:52:00.000-08:00

Last week I went to the funeral of a dear friend. She was a former teacher and was one of my stamping ladies. Taffy will be missed by all. This card was inspired by one I saw on Splitcoaststampers by Brenda Dean.

Supplies
Stamp set: Thoughts and Prayers
Card Stock: Rose Red, Regal Rose, Whisper White
Ink: Always Artichoke, Old Olive, Rose Red, Regal Rose
Accessories: Always Artichoke ribbon, Scallop Trim border punch

Happy New Year! 1- 1- 11

2011-01-01T07:51:00.000-08:00

We spent an exciting night home last night. I made my Christmas cards (yes, 2010s!) and read.

Here is a sneak peek at one item that will be in the new Occasions Mini Catalog 2011, available January 4- April 30, 2011. I used the Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, Framed Tulips. WOW! I just love the effect. For supplies I used Concord Crush ink and card stock, the DSP from the level 1 Hostess gift, and Whisper White card stock and ribbon.

Accordion flower

2010-12-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

Add caption

I have always wanted to make some accordion fold flowers. Here was the perfect opportunity. I found that I needed to make the score lines 1/4" in order for the flower to lay closer to the card. My one word of advice- use a very strong adhesive such as Sticky Tape so you do not have to redo any!

Lovely letters stamp set
Blueberry Crisp DSP
Not Quite Navy, Very Vanilla card stocks
Not Quite Navy ink
1-3/8" Circle Punch
Sticky tape