Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Photo Wallet

So what do I do with all my swaps? The gems get cased. I received a photo wallet at convention. I wish I knew who made it because it is gorgeous and has so much detail work on it. I would love to give someone credit for it but it got separated from it's label. And I don't even dare post a picture without permission from the original artist.

But I set out on Sunday to case it. I wanted to make it simple enough to offer at a class but still retain a lot of the charm of the original. The one I received also used the Always stamp set which I love and haven't played with enough. (Even that bird has grown on me.) So I was happy to use it on this project. I also used colors that are out of my normal pallet, but are starting to grow on me.

Here's my version closed:


When you open it up it looks like this:

And this is what it looks like when it all open:

You can find the directions to make it over in the resource section at Splitcoast Stampers.

Stamp Set: Always

Card Stock: Textured Kiwi Kiss, Coral Cameo, Chocolate Chip, Kraft
Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Coral Cameo, Chocolate Chip
Punches: Corner Rounder, Photo Corner, 3/4" and 1/2" circle
Embellishments: Rhinestone Brad, Chocolate Chip 5/8" Ribbon

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Swapping is my other Passion

You all know I love to create projects right? Last summer I discovered yet another way to create and share what I love to do: SWAPPING. I got so hooked that I signed up for 17 swaps at convention. Then I had to join Swappers Anonymous to keep me motivated to finish all those swaps. So what was the first thing this swap crazy group of women (who are also amazing and talented) decided to do: start another swap!

We've been keeping the tradition alive ever since convention. Our latest swap features items from the Spring/Summer Idea Book and Catalog preview. I used both the new Petals Pizzazz stamp set and the new Raspberry Tart Designer Series Paper:


To add a little more pizazz, after I stamped the flower, I punched it out with the scallop circle and then carefully cut from the edge towards the middle between each petal/scallop. Then I bent up every other petal to give it more dimension. (Although I am sure when they arrived in the mail, they were all flat.)

Also, the sketch was inspired by a challenge over on Splitcoast Stampers.

Stamps used: Petals Pizzazz (SS IB&C pg 90), Wonderful Favorites (pg 133)
Card Stock: Kiwi Kissed textured, Red Rose
Printed Paper: Raspberry Tart Designer Series Paper (pg 160)
Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Rose Red, and Cameo Coral
Punches: Scallop Circle
Embellishments: Dimensionals, Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon, Rhinestone Brad

And for you neophytes out there who are wondering what a swap is and how it works, I will try to briefly explain. You have a group of ten people who like to make cards. Everyone makes ten identical cards doing their very best work and gives one to each of the other swappers. In return, you receive nine wonderful cards back plus you have your own. That is a very simple explination and it can be a bit more complicated, but that gives you an idea.

Monday, January 5, 2009

Out with the OLD, in with the NEW! Project Buffet

It's that time of year. Time for Stampin' Up to retire some old favorites and bring on some new ones. The projects for this class feature stamps and accessories that are retiring and/or brand new. And since Valentine's Day is right around the corner, some of the projects have a Valentine's theme.

When: Saturday, January 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Where: Paula's House
What: Pick and choose which projects and cards you want to make and how many of each.
RSVP: By Noon on Thursday, January 15 to 801-967-3210 or paula24@comcast.net. Please let me know which project you want to make so I can have enough cut and ready to go.

Bring a friend and get a prize!

Here are the projects and their prices (Click on any of the pictures for a closer look):

These mini albums are called "squash books." This is what they look like on the outside and here's the insides:


There are two options available. One in greens and browns (masculine) and the others in pinks and reds (more girly). $7 each.For all you scrapbookers out there, here is a 2-page 12x12 spread featuring Stampin' Up's textured card stock, the yummy felt flurries (which will soon be gone) and a little bling. The picture sizes are noted. You could also put four small 3 3/4 inch pictures instead of one big one too. $6 for the two-page spread.

This mailbox features brand new stamps, paper and punches from the Love You Much bundle and some ribbon that will soon be gone. It's the perfect place to leave a little love note for your sweetheart or children. Or fill it with goodies and give it to a friend. $7 each.


This cute little treat box is made with the Big Shot Scalloped Envelop Die. Features new brand new printed paper (also from the Love You Much bundle). Comes with a bag of candy hearts: $3 each.


This set of 3x3 cards would go perfect in the mailbox, or just as cute little love notes for those special people in your life. All three for $1.50 (includes envelops).


Tic Tac Toe, three in a row means I love you! This card features a set from the Holiday Mini catalog that will soon be gone. It's a great Valentines card for that man in your life. $1.25.


Sending you my love. This card was inspired by one I saw on Splitcoast Stampers by GWTW Junkie (Alyssa). It also features stamps and paper from the Love You Much Bundle, the Scalloped Envelop Die and some crystal effects for dimension. $1.25
Wishing you a happy heart. This card could be used for Valentine's Day or for any occasion (heart surgery anyone?). Featuring a stamp from the Holiday Mini Catalog and some paper that will be around in the next catalog. $1.25.


Happiness today and always. This card was inspired by my dear friend and fellow demonstrator Amy Bell. There is nothing too old or too new on this one but I just love it. $1.25.


Friend to Friend. These little birdies are so cute and the card has new stamps and new paper on it as well as a retiring background stamp. Goodbye Paisley! $1.25

Flower Friend. This also features a brand new stamp set brand new paper. A little felt flower and a new way to use that scallop circle punch just add to this sweet card. $1.25.

The class is also a great time to pick up your brand new Spring Summer Idea Book and Catalog, see the new Decor Elements brochure and get a preview of the Sale-A-Bration brochure. Idea Book and Catalogs are free to anyone who ordered more than $100 in product from the previous catalog, commits to one of my hostess clubs, hosts a workshop, or places a $50 order with me. If you just want to buy one, they are $5 with a coupon for $5 off your first purchase of $50 or more.