Stampin' with Paula

Stampin' Addicts Sale-A-Bration Blog Hop!

2012-01-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to stop #3 on the Stampin' Addict's Sale-A-Bration Blog Hop! If you are hopping through in order than you've landed here from Holly's Rubber Redneck blog. Didn't you just love what she did with the Fresh Vintage Stamp set? If this is your first stop, all the blogs are linked together in a circle so you won't miss a thing. If you get lost along the way or just want to chat about what you've seen, head on over to Stampin' Addicts.

I didn't think it was possible for Stampin' Up! to come up with a Designer Series Paper I would love more than Spice Cake from the Holiday Mini Catalog. But of course, they've done it again! And I'm so excited to get to share with you the fabulous Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper. I've already used the paper a lot and I'm going to end up spending a lot of money to get more free packs of this gorgeous stuff during Sale-A-Bration. And remember, this is just one of the several items you can get free with any $50 purchase between now and March 31.

The first project is a mini album that features this beautiful paper and the Labels Collection Framelits from the Occasions Mini Catalog. The top picture is the cover and the bottom picture is the back. I don't even know where to begin to tell you about this album but I love the way it turned out. If you come back on Monday, I will share all the details including pictures of the rest of the pages.

The second project is a card that features the Everyday Enchantment Ribbon and Brad Pack and the Elementary Elegance Stamp Set also from the Sale-A-Bration. This is also my version of the Stampin' Addict Sketch Challenge #121 inspired by Stacy McCain. Isn't a fun sketch? When you're over at Stampin' Addicts, be sure to check out all the fun challenges we have and play along.

And last, but not least, my mixed media project. I decoupaged the paper to an 11"x14" canvas to make a home decor project. I haven't attempted one of these for a long time but was inspired by a recent article in Stampin' Success, an exclusive publication for Stampin' Up! Demonstrators. There are so many details to share on this one so come back on Wednesday for a closer look at how I put it together and some of the things I learned a long the way.

I hope you enjoyed this look at the Everyday Enchantment Paper and that you love it as much as I do. Thanks for stopping by and be sure to come back next week for a closer look at the projects. Next stop on the hop is Tanya's Tinkerin' In Ink and her look at the Everyday Enchantment Ribbon and Brad Pack (which coordinates beautifully with this paper so you're going to need to place a couple of orders during Sale-A-Bration to get both). Happy Hopping!

Enchanted Quilt Card

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Yep, I have another card to show you featuring the Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper. I just love this stuff. I hope you aren't tired of hearing me talk about how much I love it yet. If you come back on Friday for the Stampin' Addicts Sale-A-Bration Blog Hop, you'll get to see even more projects with this beautiful paper.

Colors: Poppy Parade, Calypso Coral, Pool Party, Very Vanilla. Stamps: Tiny Tags. Big Shot: Square Lattice Textured Embossing Folder. Punches: 1-1/4" square and Jewel Tag. Accessories: Pool Party Seam Binding, Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper and Embellishment Pack.

I love the idea of quilting. I even tried it a few times but it turns out I liked the idea of quilting better than actually quilting. But making a quilt pattern on a card is much easier. To make this card, I punched out three squares with the Pool Party pattern and six squares with the Poppy Parade patterned paper. Then I cut 2 of each colors in half diagonally to make the pattern. Once I adhered them to the Pool Party card stock, I ran the whole thing through the Big Shot to give it that "quilted" texture.

The Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper and Embellishments are just two of the items you can get free during Sale-A-Bration. If you follow the blog hop this weekend, you will get to see many of the other items featured in the Sale-A-Bration Brochure. I'll see you then!

Sale-A-Bration is Here!!!

2012-01-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

It's finally here!! Stampin' Up!'s biggest promotion of the year kicks off today and runs through March 31. And if you haven't heard about what a fun sale it is, than you have come to the right place. Spend $50 on catalog merchandise and receive an item from the Sale-A-Bration catalog free. Spend $100, get 2. Spend $500, get 10. See how this works?

This year, Stampin' Up! has pulled out all the stops too. Not only do you have your choice of four exclusive Sale-A-Bration stamp sets, an embellishment kit or a package of the most gorgeous Designer Series Paper ever, you can also choose from several different regular catalog items including embellishments, card stock, Big Shot accessories and stamps.

Host a workshop during Sale-A-Bration and not only will your friends and family benefit by getting free merchandise, but you will get extra rewards too. Starting with a really cute reusable shopping tote. And with a qualifying workshop, you will also receive a bundle of exclusive Sale-A-Bration items free.

And if that wasn't sweet enough. They are also rewarding new recruits handsomely during Sale-A-Bration. The full Starter Kit is marked down to $125 ($50 off). And new recruits will get their choice of a free package of paper or free My Digital Studio download every month they place an order for the remainder of 2012. Love that deal!

Here is a card that features the the fabulous Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper and Embellishment Kit and a stamp set called Elementary Elegance. These are all Sale-A-Bration exclusive items.

Calypso Coral, Soft Suede, Very Vanilla. Big Shot: Framed Tulips Textured Impressions Embossing Folder. Punches: Curly Label and Large Oval. Accessories: Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper and Ribbon and Brad Pack.

You are going to get tired of me talking about how much I love this paper. It is just gorgeous. I can already tell I'm going to be spending lots of money so I can earn my own extra packs free and hoard it. I made the bow on there by taking the 1/8" organdy ribbon and wrapping it around my fingers to make the loops and then pinched it in the center with the brad.

This is one of the cards that will be offered at my Valentines/Sale-A-Bration Stampin' Buffet on January 27 and 28. Today is the last day to RSVP so what are you waiting for?

Don't forget, starting Friday is the Stampin' Addicts Sale-A-Bration Blog Hop where I will be showing you even MORE projects made with this gorgeous paper. Hope to see you there!

Stampin' Addicts Sketch Challenge 120

2012-01-23T06:00:00.001-07:00

Still running behind showing off my sketch challenge cards. This was the sketch challenge last Thursday on Stampin' Addicts. This time, I designed the card first and then made the sketch.

Colors: Riding Hood Red, Island Indigo, Pool Party and Whisper White. Stamps: Ain't Love Grand. Punches: Decorative Label Cupcake Builder. Accessories: Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Details, brads, Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon.

Did you read the list and say "Cupcake builder punch? WTH?" It's hard to tell from this picture, but I used the frosting portion of the punch to make clouds in the sky but holding it down on the piece of Whisper White and daubing Pool Party Ink around the shape. It really is the perfect cloud shape. This is also a project at my Valentines/Sale-A-Bration Stampin' Buffet this weekend. Tomorrow is the last day to RSVP so contact me today!

Speaking of Sale-A-Bration it starts tomorrow! Come back tomorrow and I'll show you another project featuring Sale-A-Bration Products and give you all the details about this great promotion. Also, this weekend is the Stampin' Addicts Sale-A-Bration Blog Hop. I've been putting a lot of work into my projects for it and I can't wait to share them with you starting on Friday.

Stampin' Addicts Sketch Challenge 119

2012-01-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

So I'm a week behind on sharing sketch challenges. This is actually LAST week's challenge on Stampin' Addicts but I've had so many fun things to share that I haven't posted it here. But there is no time limit to the sketch challenge. You can play at any time and in any order. So head on over and check it out!

Sometimes when I'm putting the sketch challenge together, I start with a card and then draw the sketch. This time, I just sat down with My Digital Studio and started playing with punches until I found something I liked. Then I headed to my stamp room to make a card based on what I drew. It's more of a challenge for me that way anyway. Here is the first card I came up with:

Colors: Wild Wasabi, Peach Parfait, Whisper White, Daffodil Delight, Baja Breeze. Stamps: Kidoodle. Big Shot: Circles #2. Punch: 2-1/2" circle. Accessories: Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper, Markers, Brads, Mat Pack, Paper Piercer, White Gel Pen.

I think that little octopus is adorable! And I love how the circles in the sketch mimicked the circles on the Just Add Cake paper. To make the faux stitching on the ends, I just used the template on the mat pack and my paper piercer to poke the holes and then went over it with a white gel pen. I know it's a bit early, but this will likely be one of my projects for my Birthday Bash Stampin' Buffet in March.

After I made the first one, I thought about putting a flower in the circle spot and this is what I came up with:

Color: Daffodil Delight, Basic Black and Whisper White. Stamps: Curly Cute. Big Shot: Daisy Die #2. Accessories: Brights and Neutrals Patterns Designer Series Packs, Brights Buttons, marker.

I saw a card with this color combination on Pinterest last week. (are you starting to see a pattern with me and Pinterest?) And simple white daisies are my favorite flower so it just came together. Doodling is not something I do a lot, but I decided to give it a shot. This card is being offered at my Valentines/Sale-A-Bration Stampin' Buffet next weekend. I know it is neither Valentines or SAB, but it seemed like such a bright cheery card for the doldrums of January. There is still time to RSVP for the class so let me know if you would like to come.

Valentines Decor

2012-01-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Today I'm sharing the home decor project for my Valentines/Sale-A-Bration Stampin' Buffet. It was also inspired by something I saw on Pinterest. And again, I have the hardest time getting full pictures of these things so I apologize up front:


Colors: Pool Party, Wisteria Wonder, Calypso Coral, Lucky Limeade, Whisper White. Big Shot: Framelits Hearts Collection. Accessories: Sweet Shop Designer Series Paper, Simply Scored, Assorted Ribbons.

Here are some close up photos that are a little bit better:

To make these, I used the Framelits Heart collection and cut three hearts in five different sizes. Next I scored them down the middle and folded them. Then, I put adhesive tape down the middle of one of them and added a piece of ribbon. Then I put adhesive on the other two of the same size and stuck them together. I continued this for each of the other sizes, adding them to the same piece of ribbon. Last, I added smaller hearts to each of the tied ribbons around the main ribbon to embellish it.

At first I was worried that this paper wouldn't look "Valentines" enough. But I think it looks like candy hearts. Perfect for Valentines. This project is $8 and will take a little bit of time to make (mostly time cutting out the hearts). Can't come to the class but want to make one of these? I will put a kit together for you for $12 and ship it for free in the US. Contact me today!

Hooo Loves You?

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Ready for some more owls? Aren't they just adorable? I'm old enough to remember the last time owls were kind of trendy, but I think they are so much cuter this time around. One of the punches I don't play with enough is our Owl Builder Punch. A week or so ago, my stampin' friend Yapha Mason featured an adorable card on her blog featuring the owls for Valentines so I knew I needed to CASE it. Here is my take on it:

Colors: Coral Calypso, Lucky Limeade, Soft Suede and Whisper White. Stamps: I {Heart} Hearts. Big Shot: Little Leaves Sizzlet. Punches: Owl Builder, Small Heart. Accessories: Brads, Lucky Limeade Ruffled Ribbon, 2011-2013 In Color Patterns Designer Series Paper, Everyday Enchantment Ribbon and Brad Bundle.

This card would be perfect for Valentines or even for a wedding or anniversary. It is just one of the cards that you can make if you come to my Valentines/Sale-A-Bration Stampin' Buffet. All the projects are now posted and you can click here or on the tab above to see them. The class will be Friday night, January 27 and Saturday, January 28 during the day. I hope to see you there!

Owl Always Love You

2012-01-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

I admit it. I've been bitten by the Pinterest bug. If you aren't familiar with it, you should be. It's a place to store all the fun ideas you see on blogs and other websites. Mostly I use it to store and share Stampin' ideas but I found myself pinning hair styles today. Eek!

Last week, one of the people I follow had pinned an adorable owl made from a Big Shot Pillow Box by Lynne Put. I know I had seen these before but one of the things I love about Pinterest is having a way to store and remind myself of these things I see various places so that I will actually MAKE them and share them with my customers. Here is my take on it:

Colors: Melon Mambo, Pretty in Pink, Pumpkin Pie, Whisper White, Basic Black. Stamps: Sweet Cake. Punches: Scallop Oval, 1-1/4", 3/4" and 1/2" Circle, Modern Label, Small Heart, Heart to Heart. Accessories: White Gel Pen.

It's she so cute? This is just one of the projects I'll be offering at my Valentines Class and Sale-A-Bration Kick Off Buffet on January 27 and 28. I'll be posting all the details and projects in the next couple of days so be on the look out. I'd love to see you there!

And if you happen to also love Pinterest and would like to see the fun Stampin' Ideas (and other random things) I share, I've tried to make it easy. On the left side of the screen, you should see a "Follow Me on Pinterest." And of course, it just makes my whole day when someone "pins" something I've created to the site too. So I'm trying out a new tag at the end of my posts to make that process easier too. Feel free to try it out and see if it works. :)

Sneak Peek at Sale-A-Bration

2012-01-11T09:07:00.000-07:00

Sale-A-Bration is a wonderful time for anyone who loves FREE stuff. If you aren't familiar with the promotions, for every $50 you spend from the Stampin' Up! Catalog, you get to choose a free item from the Sale-A-Bration brochure! Watch here for more details on this exciting promotion that starts January 24.

But today, I wanted to share with you a quick sneak peek at some of the products you can get free.

Colors: Lucky Limeade, Pool Party, Very Vanilla. Stamps: Fresh Vintage and Loving Thoughts. Punches: Scallop, 1-3/8" and 1-1/4" circles. Accessories: Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper and Ribbon & Brad Pack.

Paper and brads and ribbon!! Oh my! I have to say, that I just love this Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper. It is just gorgeous! I will be featuring more projects made with this paper in the Stampin' Addicts Sale-A-Bration Blog Hop coming up in about 10 days. And the brads and ribbon that match it come in a bundle together. And the Fresh Vintage stamp set is just so beautiful too.

I made this card for a swap I was in last month to showcase the ribbon and brads and paper, but it also doubled as the Stampin' Addict Sketch Challenge last week too. Come and play along with us!

There is an easy way to earn the stamp set, the paper and the embellishment kit as well as a fun shopping tote absolutely free -- host your own qualifying workshop during Sale-A-Bration. So for a $400 workshop, you would get all of the above free, plus $65 in hostess dollars to spend on catalog merchandise and choose any one item 50% off item. Contact me today and let's get you on my calendar.

Sweet Cake

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

The new Occasions Mini Catalog has us asking the question, do we really need another cupcake stamp? I'm afraid to count how many I already have in my stash. But of course the answer is YES!!! Especially one as cute as this:

And this is what I made with it for a recent swap:


Colors: Pool Party, Soft Suede, Whisper White, Lucky Limeade and Calypso Coral. Stamps: So Sweet. Big Shot: Framelits Label Collection and Polka Dot Textured Impressions Embossing Folder. Punch: Modern Label. Accessories: Whisper White Grosgrain Ribbon, Mini Brads, Dazzling Details, VersaMarker, Cherry-Scented Embossing Powder, heat tool dimensionals.

To make the main image on the card, I stamped it first in Soft Suede and then cut it out. Then, after cleaning the stamp really well, I colored on the stamp with the Pool Party, Coral Calypso and Lucky Limeade makers and stamped it again. Before cutting this part out though, I went back over the cherry with a VersaMarker and put Stampin' Up's new Cherry-Scented Embossing Powder over it and heat set it. (That stuff smells so yummy!!) Then I cut out that image and lined it up over the Soft Suede one and popped it up using dimensionals. I also used markers for the greeting and then punched it out and doubled up the dimensionals to make it go over the cupcake bottom.

I added Dazzling Details to this card after the swap because SU hadn't announced that it would be carrying over before the swap was due. Thank goodness it did, because I love this stuff and so happy it is still available to us. It's just one of several items from the Holiday Mini that are still available to order. Check out the complete list and add something you might have missed to your order today:

Old School Valentine

2012-01-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of comments on my Old School Valentine from the blog hop. It's always so satisfying to find out people like a creation. Especially one that I wasn't so sure about. I feel like Sally Field, "You like it! You really, really like it!"

I had the idea for this because the largest die in the Framelits Heart Collections is scalloped and so cute, but it's larger than a standard card front. But I was thinking back to to when I was in elementary school and we would exchange Valentines and how sometimes they would just be a simple heart with "to" and "from" on it. So that was the starting point of this project.

Colors: Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White, Blushing Bride. Stamps: Take it to Heart and Loving Thoughts. Big Shot: Framelits Heart Collection, Adorning Accents Textured Embossing Folder. Accessories: Cherry Cobbler Embossing Power, VersaMark, Blushing Bride 3//8" pleated satin ribbon, Antique Brads, Rhinestone Jewels.

One of the great things about Framelits is that you can stamp first and then line the die up to cut the image out -- just like punching. One the smaller heart, I stamped it in VersaMark and then used Cherry Cobbler embossing powder and heat set it before I ran it through the Big Shot with the coordinating Framelit. Here's a view of the project from the side so you can see the texture and details.

And I know I've said it pretty much every post lately, but I love this ribbon. It is fabulous because it is already gathered. Makes it very easy to create a great border around an object. I just put adhesive around the back edge of the heart and then applied the ribbon to it. Here is a view from the back before I added the final scalloped heart to it:

I hope you've enjoyed this closer look at the blog hop projects. Next week, I'll have brand new projects to share with you from the Occasions Mini and maybe even a sneak peek at Sale-A-Bration.

Edgelits Card Box

2012-01-04T08:40:00.004-07:00

Today is the day! The Occasions Mini Catalog is live and you can start placing your orders. I wasn't able to share with you picture of the Edgelits and Framelits before because Stampin' Up! has rules about such things. But first a closer look at my card box project from the blog hop:

Colors: Basic Gray, Baja Breeze, Blushing Bride, Pear Pizzazz and Whisper White. Stamps: Loving Thoughts. Big Shot: Adorning Accents Edgelits, Labels Collections Framelits, Fun Flowers Die. Accessories: Twitterpated Designer Series Paper and Designer Buttons, 3/8" Blush Blossom Pleated Satin Ribbon

The box was made from a tutorial on Splitcoast Stampers. For the base, use a 7 3/4" x 9" piece of cardstock and score at 1-1/2" on all sides. Cut your corners and fold into a box. For the top, use a 6 7/8" x 8 1/8" piece of cardstock and score at 1" on all sides. Cut your in at your corners and fold to make a lid. To get the fancy border, I used the Edgelits. You will have to fold you lid before you cut so that it will fit through your Big Shot.

Colors: Whisper White, Baja Breeze, Basic Gray. Stamps: Loving Thoughts. Big Shot: Adorning Accents Edgelits and Textured Impressions Embossing Folders. Accessories: Twitterpated Designer Series Paper, Baja Breeze Seam Binding, Rhinestone Jewels.

I wanted to keep the cards simple but still add some wow and I think the textures and the shapes do that. The card box will hold several of these. I made four all the same.

And now for a look at how you use these Edgelits:

As you can see from the picture, you will need your Tab 2 for your multipurpose platform and two clear plates. See how easy it is to line the Edgelit up where you want it on your project? (I love these things!) You can use some temporary adhesive to hold it in place so that it doesn't slip when you run it through your machine.

The Edgelits and the Framelits come in nice heavy storage envelopes. But I saw an idea on Pinterest to store them in a DVD case, like the ones our clear-mount stamps come in. I altered mine to use a magnetic strip instead of a magnetic sheet like was posted and I added little magnets to the spine to store one of the Edgelits. You can see the other one is tucked underneath the Heart Framelits:

I know you will love these new dies as much as I do. And customers can start ordering them today. Just head on over to my online store and see all the new products Stampin' Up! is offering in the Occasions Mini. I know you won't be disappointed.

Bordering on Romance

2012-01-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Wasn't the Stampin' Addict Mini Occasions Blog Hop just fantastic? So many great ideas from so many talented stampers. If you missed it, don't worry. Everyone's posts should be deep linked so that you can still follow it through and see everything. You can start here. I promised today to tell you a little more detail about the first card I showed on the hop.

Colors: Pear Pizzazz, Basic Gray, Whisper White, Blushing Bride, and Riding Hood Red. Stamps: Bordering on Romance and Loving Thoughts. Big Shot: Adorning Accents Edgelits Dies and Textured Impressions Embossing Folders. Punches: 1-1/4" and 1-3/8" circles. Accessories: VersaMark Ink, Clear Embossing Powder, Blushing Bride 3/8" Pleated Satin Ribbon, Rhinestone Jewels.

First off, a little back ground on this card. I made it for a swap that I signed up for using Bordering on Romance. I really struggled to use this set. It's beautiful and I've see a lot of fabulous things done with it, but I was lacking in mojo that day and just couldn't make anything work. So I started doing more and more things with the card, like inking the Pear Pizzazz piece of card stock and putting embossing powder over the image after I colored it. The final touch was wrapping the satin ribbon around the circle. That's when I could finally be done with it.

I do LOVE this pleated satin ribbon. It's so gorgeous and so easy to work with. If you couldn't tell from my blog hop projects, I love using it to add a ruffle to things like I did here. It comes in four colors: Pear Pizzazz, Riding Hood Red, Blushing Bride and Baja Breeze. LOVE IT!!!

And I do love that stamp with the dotted line that mimics the shape of the Edgelit and embossing folder. And as I said on the blog hop, Loving Thoughts has been my "go to" greeting stamp set since it arrive here about a month ago.

As promised here is another card using all the same things, but a different image from Bordering on Romance for the main image:

I hope your 2012 is off to a fantastic start and that you had a wonderful Christmas season too. I took a little break here again just because I got a little overwhelmed those last few days before school got out and then we had company for a few days and I've just been enjoying my family. Now I'm back to it! Come back on Wednesday to see a closer look at the card box from the hop.

Stampin' Addicts Occasions Mini Blog Hop

2011-12-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to stop #2 on the Stampin' Addicts Occasions Mini Catalog Blog Hop. If you're hopping in order, then you've just come from Tanya's Tinkerin' in Ink blog. Isn't she clever? I love what she did with that Doily Sizzlet. If this is your first stop, no worries. We are linked together in one big loop so you won't miss a thing. If you get lost at any time head on over to the Stampin' Addicts for a complete list of participating bloggers, or just to chat it up!

This Occasions Mini Catalog introduces some brand new things to the Stampin' Up! Big Shot repertoire and I'm excited to share two of those products: Adorning Accents Edgelits Dies and the coordinating Adorning Accents Textured Impressions Embossing Folders. Edgelits are wafer-thin dies that let you see exactly where you are placing the design before you cut a border on your project. The set in the mini comes with two different designs. The coordinating embossing folders add texture to those borders to make them even fancier. The embossing folder set includes three different designs. I'm featuring three projects today with these and other products from the catalog. As always, you can click on the picture to get a better look.

The first card features one of the Edgelits fancy borders and the coordinating embossing folder. I just love this shape and the texture! The dotted line above that is from the Bordering on Romance set which also coordinates perfectly with the Adorning Accents sets. You might also notice the new Twitterpated Designer Series Paper and the fabulous 3/8" Pleated Satin Ribbon on the card, also from the mini catalog. And all three of my projects also feature the Loving Thoughts stamp set from the mini, which has quickly become my go to greeting stamp since I its arrival. I will provide more details and a different card with the same layout on Monday.

For this one, I used the scalloped Edgelit to make a fancy border on this card box and on the cards inside as well. You might be thinking to yourself, why would I want this when I have a punch that does the same thing? If you look closer, you can tell that the scallops are also scalloped on this design which makes it even fancier than what you can get from the punch. The box also features more of the Twitterpated paper and the pleated satin ribbon. I have more detailed pictures of the box and cards that I will share on Wednesday so you'll definitely want to come back then.

The third Adorning Accents Textured Impressions Embossing Folder doesn't have a matching Edgelit, but embosses a band of small hearts on your project. Here I used it with the brand new Hearts Framelit dies to make an old school Valentines. I love the Framelits as much as the Edgelits and I'm sure you will see a lot of them throughout the hop. The Pleated Satin Ribbon makes another appearance here as well as the Loving Thoughts and Take It To Heart Stamp set. I will share more details of this project on Friday.

I hope you have enjoyed this look at these fabulous new products. I have loved using them the past few weeks and I know you will love them too! Thanks for stopping by and be sure to come back next week for a closer look. Next stop on the blog hop is Twila's Stamp a Little Longer with a look at a great Valentines set called P.S. I Love You. Happy Hopping!

A Very My Digital Studio Christmas: Take Two

2011-12-19T08:52:00.002-07:00

I hope to have some more previews from the Occasions mini to show you later in the week. But for right now, the Christmas Crazies are in full swing around here. I really need one more day between now and Christmas but since that's NOT going to happen, I'm starting to take things off my list -- like sleep.

I try to send out a hand-stamped Christmas card to all my friends and family at least every other year. Since they pretty much all got one last year, I decided to cheat a bit this year, and design a traditional photo card instead using My Digital Studio.

Colors: Cherry Cobbler, Island Indigo, Lucky Limeade, Whisper White. My Digital Studio Kit: Savor the Season

This went together very quickly. I used the 5x7 postcard to start the project and used one of the photo layouts that My Digital Studio already provides and modified it a titch. I love that I could include pictures from several of the big events in our lives this year but also a nice family portrait.

I will admit that I cheated just a bit too. Instead of using Stampin' Up's fabulous print service, I uploaded it to a big box photo center and ordered 5x7 prints. That's another great thing about My Digital Studio: for the best prints, you can order direct from Stampin' Up! but you can also print from home or use a different photo service.

I hope you all have a wonderful week and that you can take time during this busy season to remember the important things in your life too.

A Very My Digital Studio Christmas

2011-12-14T09:27:00.002-07:00

I don't want to give too much away because I'm never sure just who will stop by and read my blog, but it is a very merry My Digital Studio Christmas around here. Today I want to show you some sneak peeks of the album I just finished last night for my parents' Christmas present. (They don't know what blogs are so I'm pretty sure I'm safe to share.)

First a little back story. I am the middle child of five siblings -- all are married and have children ranging in age from 15 to not even born yet. We are scattered from the San Fransisco Bay Area to Houston, Texas and points in between. Circumstances have kept us from all being in the same place at the same time since my oldest was about six months old. Four of the five of us have been together at different time since then, but there was always someone missing -- that is until this past summer. Finally, everyone was in the same place at the same time for almost three whole days. Twenty-five of us under one roof and it happened to be mine. It took a lot of planning and coordinating but it was ALL worth it in the end to see the cousins get acquainted and become friends and to get to hang out with some of my favorite people.

So for Christmas, my parents are getting a scrapbook of the event all neatly put together, printed and bound using My Digital Studio and Stampin' Up!'s print service. In my humble opinion, this is the only way to create scrapbooks of events or vacations because it makes it so simple and fast. (Fast is relative because it still took me the better part of three days to put together, but if I had done it by hand, it would have taken me weeks.)

Here's a look at some of the pages from the album. These are two page spreads in an 11"x8-1/2" album. You can click on them to get a better look:

I used the Noteworthy Hostess Digital Content CD for the entire album. I did add a few random stamps from Greatest Moments, Fabulous Phrases and other word stamp kits. I love this kit and it was really easy to work with to create an album.

You'll notice my pages are very square and symmetrical. I know that's not everyone's favorite way to scrapbook, but it makes putting together 38 pages very quick and easy. A tip that I used on this and is a great way to use MDS is to fill a page with various-sized photo boxes and get them lined up just the way you want them before you start adding pictures to the boxes. Trust me, it's much easier to resize and work with photo boxes than it is with the photos themselves.

I can't wait to give it to them Christmas morning. They will be here with us for the first time in several years. I know my Dad will love it! I have a few other Christmas projects in the works with My Digital Studio that I'll be sharing over the next few weeks. Are you using My Digital Studio for your holiday gifts or cards? I'd love to hear about it?

Sneak Peek: Occasions Mini Catalog

2011-12-12T09:14:00.003-07:00

Maybe it's a little too early for Valentines Day. But I did get a little time to play this weekend with my new stamps, paper and Big Shot items and I wanted to share. I'm so excited about all of it, but especially the new Big Shot Framelit Dies that we will be selling starting January 4. These wafer-thin dies make it easy to cut out pre-stamped images, just like punches. And each set come with six different dies that layer on top of each other. A papercrafter's dream come true!!! Here's the first card I made with these this weekend:

Colors: Blushing Bride, Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White. Stamps: Take It to Heart and Loving Thoughts. Big Shot: Hearts Collection Framelits. Tools: Heat Gun. Accessories: VersaMark Stamp Pad, Cherry Cobbler Embossing Powder, Vintage Brads, Whisper White 3/8" Taffeta Ribbon.

Take It to Heart and Loving Thoughts are both new stamp sets in the Mini Catalog too. Take It to Heart coordinates perfectly with the Heart Framelits. And I know I will be using Loving Thoughts A LOT. It has 11 sentiments that are just perfect for almost any occasion. This started out as a card for a swap, but then I got the idea to put the ribbon ruffle around the larger heart and well, that's a lot of ribbon for an eight person swap. It does give the card a little something special though. But now I still have a swap to design with this stamp set.

One of the perks of being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator is getting product free for meeting various goals. I received Take It to Heart free for participating in Stampin' Up's! Worldwide Week of Workshops. I also received the Antique Brads for free for booking workshops during a book-a-thon. And those weren't the only free things that came in this order. I love this company! If you'd like more information on joining Stampin' Up! please contact me, or visit my Demonstrator Website: paula.stampinup.net.

Merry & Bright - Take Two

2011-12-09T07:42:00.001-07:00

While I've been frantically finishing up some December classes and special orders, I haven't had time to stamp anything new for about a week. This weekend I enter full-on swap making mode though because they are due in Maine in 10 days. Eek!

But I do have another Merry & Bright card to share with you today. The more I play with this set, the more I love it. I'm feeling a little bad for all the other stamps that are getting over looked while I played with this one last week. This is for my simple Christmas Card class I'm doing for a customer tonight.

Colors: Old Olive, Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla. Stamps: Merry & Bright. Big Shot: Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder. Punches: Decorative Label. Accessories: Old Olive Grosgrain Ribbon, Pearl Jewels.

My preorder for the Holiday Mini including some Sale-A-Bration exclusive items arrived yesterday. I'm head-over-heals in love with some of the new products and can't wait to start showing them to you. Look for a special sneak peek next week.

Polar Party

2011-12-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

I've confessed my love for Christmas Stamps before. This is one set that immediately caught my attention when I first saw the catalog. I *know* polar bears and penguins aren't found in nature together, but they are just so darn cute.

Images (c) Stampin' Up 2011

The first card I made was a simple one featuring the Northern Flurry Embossing folder and our Shimmer White Card Stock. You can't tell from the picture, but the shimmery card stock is so pretty. I added the rhinestones for a little more bling too.

Colors: Island Indigo, Shimmer White, Pool Party and Lucky Limeade. Stamps: Polar Party and Four The Holidays. Big Shot: Northern Flurry Embossing Folder. Accessories: Black Stazon Ink Pad, Rhinestone Jewels, Island Indigo and Pool Party Ruffled Ribbon.

The second card features the trees from the the set. They are just so darn cute. I colored them with blender pens to give it more of a water-colored look. They fit perfectly inside the 2-1/2" circle punch. And that scallop is actually one of the medallion shapes from the Perfect Pennant die. The card is a "z-fold".

Colors: Old Olive, Blushing Bride, So Saffron, Early Espresso, Whisper White. Stamps: Polar Party. Big Shot: Perfect Pennants Die, 3" circle. Punches: 2-1/2" circle. Accessories: Black Stazon Ink Pad, Blender Pens, Early Espresso Quilted Satin Ribbon, Rhinestone Jewels.

My preorder from the Occasions Mini Catalog arrives tomorrow! You know what that means, it won't be long until I'll have some sneak peeks for you!

Sparkly Snow

2011-12-05T08:17:00.001-07:00

Sorry for my unintended week off. Things were a little crazy around here last week. I had a full schedule Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and planned to use Thursday to get caught up. But then we had a little "wind event" that day. And when I say little, I mean big. And when I say big, I mean the equivalent of a category 2 hurricane. We were lucky and only lost several of our roof tiles and some of our fence and were without power for about 10 hours. Others lost much more so we feel very blessed. But it sure disrupted our everyday life for a few days. Then we left town for the weekend to go see our best friends, the Butlers, bless their new baby. Only to come home to another "wind event" warning. Whew! What a week!!

So I know you came to see a project, not my excuse for not sharing any last week. This is a simple card I put together for a customer who asked for a card class for her family and friends this week. I love to use Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder with White Craft Ink for snowflakes. It really gives them a lot of shimmer, just like real snow on a cold, sunny day.

Colors: Not Quite Navy,, Pool Party and Whisper White. Stamps: Snow Swirled. Punches: Scallop Oval. Accessories: Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder, Rhinestone Jewels, Not Quite Navy Taffeta Ribbon.

I'm trying to figure out how it got to be December 5 all ready. I have one tree up but not decorated yet. But that is it. My goal for today and tomorrow is to get the house all decorated for the holidays. Wish me luck. And no more wind!

Stampin' Up's own Black Friday Event

2011-11-24T20:48:00.001-07:00

Stampin' Up knows this is one of the biggest shopping weeks of the year. And they are offering a great sale on some products that I know you will love.

I know it's cheating to repost somethings I've already posted, but I have a good reason. Remember these little cuties?

Right now the Candy Wrapper Die is on sale during Stampin' Up's Online Extravaganza for $26.36. That's a 20% savings. How much do I love this die? Remember, I made 25 of these little guys. (See this blog post: Candy Wrapper Countdown.) It really is one of my favorites. It's my go-to die when I need a cute little box for a quick treat.

Stretching way back into the archive now -- anyone remember this one?

Colors: Basic Gray, Baja Breeze, Pink Pirouette. Stamps: Flight of the Butterfly. Punches: Butterfly and Scalloped Border. Accessories: Basic Gray Taffeta (retired).

Isn't that a fun card? Flight of Fancy is on sale for $15.98 -- that's 50% off! One of the great things about this set is Stampin' Up sells a punch to go with so you don't have to cut out that butterfly.

There are several stamps sets on sale, including a couple of Christmas sets as well as Big Shot items, fabric, My Digital Studio downloads, embellishments, Decor Elements and much, much more. So what are you waiting for? Head on over to paula.stampinup.net and place your Online Extravaganza order right now! Sale ends November 30 at midnight. You can combine sale items with clearance rack and other merchandise too on the same order (like maybe the things to make my Christmas Card Kit). For my local customers, I will be placing an order on Saturday evening if you'd like to save a little on combined shipping.

And if you are venturing out to the bricks and mortar stores this weekend, good luck and stay safe.

My Digital Studio for your Thanksgiving Table

2011-11-23T08:16:00.001-07:00

Happy day-before-Thanksgiving! I know I won't be back to my blog until after the holiday so I just wanted to let all my blog readers know how thankful I am for you! I hope you and your family have a blessed Thanksgiving filled with family, friends, food, (maybe some football) and fun.

I also wanted to share two fun items I made for the Thanksgiving table a few weeks back. (I will admit, this isn't what we're having for Thanksgiving this year. This Thanksgiving it's just the four of us so we're going out to eat this year.) But if I was having dinner at my house, these name tents would be on the table:

Colors: Soft Suede, Very Vanilla, More Mustard and Pool Party. Digital Kits: Hand-Penned Holidays Stamp Set, Spice Cake Designer Series Paper, Grosgrain Ribbon and Antique Brads.

The second thing is a menu card. Several years ago, I worked in the Governor's Office here in Utah. One of the things I learned to love there were menu cards on a table for a formal luncheon or dinner. They just add such a special little touch to the table and make it feel more formal.

Colors: Soft Suede, Very Vanilla, More Mustard and Pool Party. Digital Kits: Hand-Penned Holidays Stamp Set, Spice Cake Designer Series Paper, Grosgrain Ribbon and Antique Brads

Don't forget, now through November 30, you will get $40 in free downloads if you purchase the My Digital Studio Express software. The difference between Express and the Standard My Digital Studio is the amount of content that comes with it and the fact that you can download it from my online store (NO SHIPPING!). With the free downloads, it's like getting the full version for half price. Visit my store at www.paula.stampinup.net and click "shop now" to get yours today. And don't forget to check out the other great deals happening during Stampin' Up's Online Extravaganza!

Christmas Card Kit

2011-11-21T00:46:00.000-07:00

Would you like to send out handcrafted Christmas Cards this year but feel like you are running out of time? I have a quick and easy solution for you! Using the Christmas Lane Simply Scrappin' Kit from the Holiday mini and a few other supplies (some you may already have on hand) you can easily create 48 Christmas cards in just a few hours. Look at the stack that I made in one afternoon:

Here are just four of the 24 different cards I made. Because the kit contains two of each of the sticky die-cuts, you make two of each card to get 48.

But you might be thinking, of course you made them quickly, Paula. You make cards all the time. But I have a deal for you that will make it just as easy for you. If you order the Christmas Lane Simply Scrappin' Kit from my online store or directly from me, I will email you a .pdf file with directions and a picture of each card so you can copy them if you'd like.

Here is a list of all the supplies I used to make the cards. I tried to limit myself to just a few supplies so you could easily make them at home (and you may already have some of these things in your stash):

Christmas Lane Simple Scrappin' Kit (item 124007) $21.95
Whisper White Card Stock (item 100730) $8.50
Cherry Cobbler 1/2 Seam Binding (item 120992) $6.95
Basic Rhinestones Jewels (item 119246) $4.95
VersaMark Stamp Pad (item 102283) $7.50
Cherry Cobbler Stamp Pad (item 119669) $5.95

I also used the small "Merry" stamp from Pennant Parade (clear mount item 122742 $16.95, wood mount item 122740 $21.95) stamp set and the "Merry Christmas" from Christmas Greetings (item 115448 $10.95) but you could easily substitute other holiday greeting stamps you already have on hand. One has to be fairly small but the other can be any size.

You will have leftovers of pretty much everything when you are done with your cards to use on other projects as well. And you could substitute a Cherry Cobbler marker for the stamp pad to save yourself a little money too. Don't need 48 cards? You'll have even more leftovers to make tags, scrapbook pages and much more. And don't forget the envelopes. Stampin' Up sells them in packs of 40 (item 107301) for $6.50.

So head on over to my online store (and check out the fabulous Online Extravaganza sale while you are there), give me a call or drop me an email and order yours today. I will be placing an order on Saturday of this week if you would like to save a little on shipping.

Online Extravaganza - November 21-30

2011-11-21T00:17:00.001-07:00

It's back!! Stampin' Up's! annual Online Extravaganza begins today! Don't miss out on these amazing deals. Hurry, because two of the items are only on sale for 24 hours: The Simply Scored tool and the Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps.

Other items featured on the sale include a ribbon bundle, several stamp sets, four different Designer Series Fabrics, decor elements, digital downloads and much, much more!

One of the items I'm most excited about is the My Digital Studio bonus offer. Purchase My Digital Studio Express for $39.95 and get your choice of three download bundles valued at $40 each FREE! That's like getting the full My Digital Studio for 50% off.

You can browse all sale items at my online store (click SHOP NOW) or view a .pdf list of all sale items. (requires adobe acrobat - a free download). Local customers: if you'd like to take advantage of combined shipping for your order, contact me ASAP. I will be placing an order on Monday, November 21 and on Saturday, November 26 to take advantage of these great deals. My Digital Studio offer must be placed online only (but no shipping is charged since you will just download it to your computer).

My Digital Studio Contest

2011-11-18T06:30:00.000-07:00

About a month ago, I entered the My Digital Studio Contest on MydigitalStudio.net. I had to submit a scrapbook page and a card. It was right before I was leaving for vacation and I never did quite get the page the way I wanted it, but here is what I submitted:

Colors: Lucky Limeade, Island Indigo and Whisper White. Digital Designer Series Paper: Night and Day. Digital Punches: Decorative Label. Digital Stamps: Daring Adventure. Digital Accessories: In Color Buttons, Silver Brad.

Colors: Island Indigo, Pool Party, Basic Black and Whisper White. Digital Designer Series Paper: Night and Day. Digital Punches: Key Tag and Wide Oval. Digital Stamps: Bliss. Digital Accessories: Satin Ribbon, Antique Brads.

One of my favorite techniques in My Digital Studio is to play around with the opacity of objects. You can see how I did that with the stamps, but I also did it with the Night and Day Paper on both projects. After I picked the background colors, I laid a punch over the top of them and filled them with a patterned paper from Night and Day. This one works best because it's black and white. Then I adjusted the opacity on it so it looks like a completely different Designer Series Paper in a different color.

I learned that technique from MyDigitalStudio.net. There are all kinds of videos and tips there for you to learn too. Don't own My Digital Studio? You can download a basic version of the software from my online store.

And just a reminder: if you are making My Digital Studio Christmas gifts like I am, the deadline to get those projects to the printer is December 7 for guaranteed Christmas delivery. I know I need to get busy.

Also, Stampin' Up's Online Extravaganza is almost here. Starting Monday, November 21, Stampin' Up! will have amazing deals on several items and bundles and maybe even a deal on My Digital Studio? You'll have to come back Monday to see!

Gobble, Gobble, Gobble

2011-11-16T08:06:00.001-07:00

I know a lot of people complain about how Thanksgiving gets overlooked in our rush to Christmas. Halloween comes and goes and then it seems like everyone starts to focus on Christmas. As a crafter, I do that as a survival tactic. Holding a Christmas Class in December isn't going to cut it most of the time. So I start my Christmas crafting even before Halloween.

But I do LOVE Thanksgiving. There is something about a day set aside to thank God for all the goodness in our lives, to gather with family, friends and feast on our bounty. It probably doesn't hurt that my birthday sometimes falls on Thanksgiving too.

So today, I'm sharing with you a Thanksgiving project instead of a Christmas one. I made these turkeys for the Sweet Treats Cup Swap I hosted at Convention this year:


Colors: Riding Hood Red, Pumpkin Pie, More Mustard, Old Olive, Soft Suede, Early Espresso. Big Shot: Scallop Circle #2. Punches: 2-1/2", 1-3/4" and 1-3/8" circles, modern label, Owl and Cupcake Builder Punch. Accessories: Sweet Treat Cups.

I know I looked at a few other punch art turkeys to inspire this but took ideas from all of them to create this. I used the Owl Builder Punch for the eyes and beak (it's the heart) and the cupcake punch (the flame from candle) for the waddle. I inked all the pieces to give it a bit more dimension too. Wouldn't they be cute sitting on your Thanksgiving table?

And it's been a while since I shared with you a song. So in honor of the Christmas crazies that strike earlier and earlier each year, I'm going to share a song by one of my favorite acappella groups, Straight No Chaser, that celebrates the time between Halloween and Christmas. Enjoy!

WWSD?

2011-11-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

WWSD? That's become my new mantra in my stamp room. It means "What would Shelli Do?" See, I like to think that I'm a pretty OK stamper when it comes to basic cards and 3D items for my class participants to recreate.

But, when it comes to the vintage/shabby chic look, I need some more practice and Shelli Gardner, the founder and CEO of Stampin' Up! is a master at these things. She makes the most beautiful creations with all the little extra special touches on them. She goes a few steps further on things than I usually do. So when I've been working on some over-the-top projects the past few weeks, I ask myself, what would Shelli do? And then I try to add a few extra special touches to the projects just like Shelli would. How has it worked? I'll let you be the judge with these ornaments:

Colors: Very Vanilla, Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso and Always Artichoke. Stamp Set: Pines & Poinsettias. Big Shot: Square Scallop Duo. Tools: Simply Scored. Punches: 1-1/4" circle punch, Curly and Modern Label, Jewelry Tag. Accessories: Markers, First Edition Specialty Designer Series Paper, Champagne Glass Stampin' Glitter, Antique and Metallic Brads, Victoria Lace, Velvet Stitched and Quilted Satin Ribbon, Seam Binding, Pearl Jewels and Vintage Trinkets, Shimmer Paint.

Just the list of accessories I used alone is about twice what I would normally have used on any given project. So maybe that is a step in the right direction. It's hard to tell from the picture, but when these were all put together, I spritz them with a combination of Shimmer Paint and rubbing alcohol so they really do just sparkle. They'd look so pretty on a tree or as an extra special gift tag.

These were inspired by some ornaments I saw on Kimberley VanDiepen's stampinbythesea.com. I'm offering them at my class this next weekend if you want to make some of your own. Last day to RSVP is tomorrow, Tuesday, November 15. I also plan to make several more both for my own tree and as gifts this holiday season.

So when you find yourself with a project in front of you and you just aren't sure what it's missing, just ask yourself, WWSD? I hope it works for you too.

Merry & Type

2011-11-11T08:54:00.001-07:00

I have a confession to make. I love stamps. (Maybe you already knew that?) But not just any old stamps, but Christmas stamps. I have a lot of them. And every year I swear I am NOT going to buy a single new Christmas stamp set because I already have more than I can show during one holiday period.

This year was no different. Stampin' Up didn't retire a lot of Christmas stamps last year so I still have several current, perfectly nice Christmas images. But when I started planning for my Christmas card class, I just couldn't bring myself to use the same stamps I've had for years. I wanted NEW and I wanted it NOW!

Thank goodness for FREE rubbah!!! Through a few fortunate turns of events, I won Christmas Lodge at convention, then got Snow Much Fun for the So Shelli challenge and Polar Party for a focus group. So three new Christmas stamp sets should be enough, right?

WRONG!!! On my order for supplies, I had hostess dollars to spend (yep, demonstrators get hostess benefits too. I love this company). I debated what to do with them and looked at a lot of other non-Christmas stamp sets that are still on my wish list. But guess what I ended up with instead -- another Christmas set: Merry & Type. And I'm so glad that I did because I just LOVE it.

Here are two cards we'll be making with it at my Christmas Card and Gift Crank next weekend:


Colors: Very Vanilla, Early Espresso, Riding Hood Red. Stamps: Merry & Type. Accessories: Letters to Santa Designer Series Paper, Early Espresso Grosgrain Ribbon, Pearl Jewels.

You probably notice that this isn't a regular cut card. It is a modified kick stand card. Kind of a fun design that is simple to make but adds just a bit of "wow" to the card.

Colors: Whisper White, Old Olive, Early Espresso, Riding Hood Red. Stamps: Merry & Type. Big Shot: Petals-a-Plenty Embossing Folder. Punches: Postage Stamp and 1-1/4" square. Accessories: Letters to Santa Designer Series Paper, brads, markers.

For this one, I just wanted a simple card that would be fast to produce. I love the stamp that looks like a postage stamp. And it matches the paper so wonderfully.

Also, November 11 is a big day in my family. This would have been my grandfather's 94th birthday but he isn't here to celebrate with us any more. But it is also the 15th anniversary of me becoming and aunt for the first time. So Happy Birthday wishes to my cute niece Emma today too.

And of course, a big thank you to the men and women who have served our country so valiantly over the years, and to their families as well. Not a day goes by when I am not amazed by the sacrifices of so many on my behalf. Happy Veterans Day.

Stocking Die for the Big Shot

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

I was stamping with my friend Missi several weeks ago and I was talking about what I was going to do for my Christmas class. I had just finished my Halloween banner and I knew that I wanted a different banner for Christmas. That's when the idea hit me: string stockings together from the brand new, super cute Holiday Stocking Big Shot Die. I finally had a chance to get it on paper:

Colors: Riding Hood Red, Old Olive, Early Espresso, Whisper White. Big Shot: Holiday Stocking Bigz L, Serif Essentials Alphabet. Punches: Five Petal Flower, Large Oval, 1/2" Circle, Postage Stamp. Accessories: Espresso Quilted Satin Ribbon, Old Olive Scallop Polka Dot Ribbon, Brads, Mini Clothes Pins, Brights Buttons, Letters to Santa Designer Series Paper, Glitter Paper.

I love the little clothes pins that hold the stockings in place on the ribbon. I forgot I bought these and almost ordered more before I found them in my extra embellishment drawer. And I need to give another shout out to Missi for suggesting the embellishments on the cuff of the stockings too. It needed a little something and her suggestion was right on.

I also wanted to offer a card made out of this cute die but then came across one on the internet that turned it into a gift card holder. I wish I could find it again so I could give credit to the creator. (I really need to be better about writing down where I see things.)

Colors: Marina Mist, Cherry and Whisper White on Left. Real Red, Garden Green and Whisper White on right. Stamps: Four the Holidays. Big Shot: Holiday Stocking Bigz L Die, Snowburst Textured Embossing Folder. Punches: Word Window, Scallop Border Punch, 1-1/4" Circle. Accessories: Buttons, Bakers Twine, Ribbon.

On the back side of these, the Word Window punch creates a slot for the gift card to slide into like so:

Isn't that clever? I will be offering both of these projects at my Christmas Card and Gift Crank on November 18 and 19. You can check out all the details here: http://paulastamps.blogspot.com/p/christmas-crank-class.html

Snow Much Fun!!

2011-11-07T06:30:00.000-07:00

Remember a couple of months back when I won the So Shelli challenge? Maybe not? Well, the only really important part of winning it was the free RUBBAH that came with the honor. I told you almost six weeks ago to stay tuned to see what stamp set I won. Well, I'm finally ready to show it off: Snow Much Fun! It's also fitting that I share these today because we had our first snow of the season this weekend too. We don't get as much snow in Farmington as my Salt Lake Valley friends do, but we did get enough for my boys to get out and play.

Colors: Pool Party, Island Indigo, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White. Stamps: Snow Much Fun. Punches: Snowflake. Accessories: Markers, Glitter Paper, Crop-A-Dial, In Color Designer Brads, White Grosgrain, Island Indigo Ruffled Ribbon and Riding Hood Red Taffeta.

I based this on a really cute swap I got at convention from my good friend, Missi. Her's was Halloween-themed and held pop rocks. I modified it just a titch to put a cocoa packet and candy cane inside for a cute little gift for a co-worker or friend.

Colors: Baja Breeze, Poppy Parade, Basic Black, Whisper White. Stamps: Snow Much Fun and Curly Cute. Big Shot: Polka Dot Embossing Folder. Accessories: Crystal Effects, Basic Black Grosgrain Ribbon

The colors for this card were based on another swap I received at convention that I just loved from my friend, Mary Ann. I loved how the black really makes the card pop. I changed her layout quite a bit but the stamped scene is pretty close to hers too.

I will be offering both of these projects at my Christmas Card and Gift Crank on November 18 and 19. You can get all the details here: http://paulastamps.blogspot.com/p/christmas-crank-class.html

Digital Scrapbooking Day!

2011-11-05T08:36:00.001-06:00

Now through November 7, Stampin' Up! is offering four free digital download kits for My Digital Studio. Don't have My Digital Studio? You can also use the downloads in other software.

Just this morning I started playing with the free downloads. The templates make it quick and easy to create these in just a matter of minutes:

This one is from the Home for the Holidays download. It would be perfect for a post Christmas Thank You card.

I used the page templates from the Delight in the Day download for this. Such a cute page and all you have to do is add the photos and journaling and you are done.

The Neutral Delightful Digital Tape download is perfect for boy pages and you all know I need a lot of boy pages around here.

Don't miss out on this fun offer. To get the downloads, simply fill out this survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/DigitalDay and for more information about My Digital Studio, visit MyDigitalStudio.net.

Lotion and Lip Balm Holders

2011-11-04T12:00:00.001-06:00

I had a special request to figure out a box for a bottle of lotion in the same vane as the hand sanitizer holder. The hand sanitizers make a nice small gift but sometimes you need to give a little more than that for a neighbor, close co-worker or teacher.

So I set off to make one. Here is how it turned out:


Colors: Old Olive, Early Espresso, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White. Stamps: Merry & Type. Punches: 1-1/4" and 2-1/2" circles, Medium Oval, Decorative Label. Accessories: Simply Scored, Olive Satin Ribbon, Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon and Rhinestones. Other: Super thin craft magnets.

Then one of my demonstrator friends showed me a picture of some lip balm holders she was making for a boutique and I had to try them myself too:

Colors: Old Olive, Early Espresso, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White. Stamps: Merry & Type. Punches: 3/4" circle punch, 1" square and postage stamp. Accessories: Simply Scored, Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon. Other: super thin craft magnets.

And of course, I showed you the Hand Sanitizer last week too:

I've had lots of questions about how to make these so I'm going to provide you with the measurements and scoring instructions for each of these.

LOTION BOX

Take a piece of 3-1/2" x 11" card stock and place it in the Simply Scored the long way. (piece A)
Score piece A at 3/4", 2-1/2", 7-1/4", and 9"
Take another piece of 3-1/2 x 11 card stock and place it in the Simply Scored the long way. (piece B)
Score piece B at 6" and 7-3/4"
Fold on all score lines the same direction
On piece A, fold the 3/4" section down and punch a hole in the middle of the second section with the 1-1/4" circle punch (the punch will take a notch out of the first section too as shown in the picture:

Place strong adhesive, like Sticky Strip, to the opposite end of piece A (the 2" piece at the end) and adhere to piece B (the 6" section on piece B should line up with the fold on the 2" section of piece A as shown in the picture):

Place strong adhesive on the first section of piece A. (The 3/4" one with the partial circle punched in it.
To "square" the box so that it is nice and even, fold the box as shown in the picture and adhere the tab down:

Finish your box by embellishing it as you desire. To hold the box closed, I use super thin, neodymium magnets underneath the layer of Designer Series Paper on the box. You can get these at your local craft store or do a search online. I used two glue dots on the bottom to hold the lotion in place.

I won't go into as much detail for the Lip Balm and Hand Sanitizer holders because they use basically the same instructions, only they use one strip of card stock:

LIP BALM HOLDERS:

Cut card stock to 1-1/2" x 9-3/4".
Place on Simply Scored the long way and score at 1/2", 1-1/2", 3-1/4", 4-1/4", 7, and 8
Fold along the score lines going in the same direction.
Fold the first flap under the second flap (1/2" into the 1" section) and punch a 3/4" circle in the center of the second section (again, you'll get the notch in the 1/2" piece but that doesn't matter).
Place strong adhesive on the 1/2" flap, fold and adhere to the longest panel as shown above in the last picture.
Embellish your box as you desire. I used the same magnets on these and I placed a glue dot along the bottom of the lip balm to hold it in place.

HAND SANITIZER HOLDERS:

Cut card stock to 2" x 11
Place on Simply Scored the long way and score at 1/2", 1-1/2", 3-1/2", 7-3/4" and 8-3/4"
Fold along the score lines going in the same direction.
Fold the first flap under and using the large oval punch, punch an opening in the center of that second section.
Place strong adhesive on the first 1/2" flap, and fold and adhere to the longest panel as shown above.
Embellish your box as you desire. Again, I used the same magnets. You don't have to use a glue dot to hold these in place, they will stay by themselves.

I will be offering the lip balm holders and lotion holders at my class on November 18 and 19. Watch for more details soon.

Stocking Builder Punch

2011-11-02T11:12:00.002-06:00

Imagine, if you will, that you are sitting in a room full of rubber stamp-crazed women and an executive from the Stampin' Up! home office is sharing sneak peeks of products from the Holiday Mini Catalog. The crowd is oohing and ahhing over all the pretty things. And then she introduces something that the crowd goes wild over. It really doesn't take much to cause this, but this time it's over the introduction of a matching stamp set and punch that makes Christmas Stockings.

That really happened at convention in July in Salt Lake City. It's easy to get swept up in the madness and suddenly need absolutely everything in the Holiday Mini catalog. I tried to pace myself but did break down and use some hostess benefits on some supplies I was ordering for a class to get these really cute items. And last week, I finally got around to using them.

Colors: Marina Mist, Night of Navy, Whisper White. Stamps: Stitched Stockings, Warmest of Wishes. Punches: Stocking Builder Punch. Big Shot: Snow Burst Textured Embossing Folder. Accessories: Mini Jingle Bells.

Just about everything on this card is from the Holiday Mini Catalog: the stamps, the punch the embossing folder and those really cute little jingle bells. This is one of the cards that will be featured at my Christmas Card Crank November 18 & 19. The Jingle Bells on it make it a little difficult to mail so you will have the option of placing the rhinestone jewels on it instead.

Colors: Real Red, Garden Green. Stamps: Stitched Stockings. Punches: Stocking Builder Punch. Accessories: Sliver Glitter Paper, Garden Green Grosgrain Ribbon, Mini Jingle Bell, Cello Bag.

This was the project we made at Lynne's workshop the other night. It was a huge hit and so simple to make. I could easily be persuaded into offering this at my Christmas Class too. Or get your friends together and host your own workshop and we can make these there! With Stampin' Up offering extra hostesses benefits to qualifying workshops, now is a great time to do it too.

Colors: Pretty in Pink, Certainly Celery, Whisper White. Stamps: Stitched Stockings, Tiny Tags. Punches: Stocking Builder Punch, and Jewelry Tag. Big Shot: Polka Dot Embossing Folder. Accessories: Vintage Trinkets, Subtles Designer Paper Pack

I wanted to show a project at the workshop that used this stamp set and punch but not for Christmas. I've seen this punch used for so many things, but the baby booty so so simple and so cute! I used a safety pin from the Vintage Trinkets embellishments to pin a little tag to the booties to add to the cute baby factor.

I hope you can tell just how much fun and how versatile this stamp set really is and why the convention crowd went a little wild when they showed these. I love anything that makes my life easier and stamps that match punches definitely do that. You can order your own set right now by heading over to my online store. The Stitched Stockings in clear mount (item 123784) is $19.95 and wood mount (item 123782) is $27.95. The matching Builder Punch (item 124095) is $16.95.

Happy November!!

2011-11-01T20:07:00.004-06:00

I love November. It really is my favorite month of the year. Might have something to do with a certain someone's birthday that is this month. But I also love that you get to enjoy the last lingering days of fall and the first early days of winter. And Thanksgiving with all it's food, friends, family and fun followed by the beginning of the Holiday Season.

Oh and usually, we have the beginning of basketball season in November too. (If you don't know, I'm a huge Utah Jazz fan). But alas, this year the NBA lockout is getting in the way of that. But that does leave more time for stamping and blogging.

October was a fabulous for me and my business. Thanks to some wonderful hostesses and my great friends and customers who let me share what I love with them and their friends. And I really want to keep that momentum going. This month Stampin' Up! is sweetening the pot too: host a workshop from now through December 15 and Stampin' Up! will through in an extra $35 in hostess benefits when your workshop reaches $350 or more.

Also this month will be my annual Christmas Card (and Gift) Crank! You won't want to miss out on this great chance to get all your Christmas cards and even some handmade gifts done and out of the way. Right now, I have this class scheduled for November 18 and 19. But I'm looking to add one more date if you have a suggestion. I'll be previewing projects for the class over the next week or so.

Last of all, Stampin' Up has extended it's FREE BIG SHOT promotion until November 11. This is the best sign up bonus I've ever seen. Join Stampin' Up and get a Big Shot die cut machine absolutely free.

My favorite part of November is spending some time reflecting on my blessings. Stampin' Up has been a big blessing in my life. It allows me to run my own business how I choose and I get to make all kinds of new friends in the process. Thank you for being part of my Stampin' Up! world. :)

You probably noticed the change to Christmas decorations here on my blog. I know that puts me in the doghouse with those of you that would rather wait until after Thanksgiving to see them. But I will be showcasing lots of Holiday products over the next few weeks so I thought I'd get into the spirit a little early. The images are from the Savor the Season MDS kit that is available to Hostesses for a limited time only.

Happy Halloween!!!

2011-10-31T06:30:00.000-06:00

I thought it might be kind of fun to take a look back at all the Halloween projects I've done for classes over the past few years. Do you see your favorite? I hope you have a fun and safe Halloween this year. Coming this week a sneak peek at Christmas projects.

Hand Sanitizer Holder

2011-10-28T06:00:00.000-06:00

On Wednesday, I showed you one of the projects for Tammy's class. Her second request was for a teacher gift. I was running out of time to get something designed before I left for vacation so I reached into last year's Christmas Projects and decided to offer the ever popular Hand Sanitizer Holder. I hope they are as big a hit with Tammy's friends as they were at my class last year.

There are a few different patterns and tutorials for these floating around on the internet. For these, I used the directions from the amazingly talented Kimberly Van Diepen's blog stampinbythesea.com. I like them because you can get four out of one sheet of card stock and the Simply Scored tool make them super easy to make too.

Colors: Old Olive, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White. Stamps: Warmest of Wishes. Punches: Decorative Label Punch, Medium Oval Punch. Tools: Simply Scored. Accessories: Letters to Santa Designer Series Paper, Riding Hood Red 3/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Gold Brads. Other: super thin neodymium magnets, hand sanitizer

If you are interested in hosting your own workshop or private class for your friends, let me know. Time is running short to get classes in before the Holidays so let's get it on the calendar now.

Mini Album/Photo Display

2011-10-26T06:00:00.000-06:00

Sorry I took Monday off. We got back from vacation on Sunday night and I just couldn't get myself out from the piles of dirty laundry long enough to post on Monday. But I'm back now!

My dear friend Tammy is graciously inviting all her friends and neighbors over for a private stamping class next week. She told me exactly what she wanted and I went to work trying to make it happen. :)

She asked for a mini album/fold-out photo display that would make a great little add on gift for grandparents. I had made some of these a few years ago for a boutique and that is where she got the idea. They measure 4"x12" and scored every 3" and accordion folded.

The hard part for me with these things is trying to make them gender neutral enough that you could put boys' or girls' photos on it and that a man could put it on his desk without getting ribbed by his coworkers.

Here's what it looks like from the outside when it's all folded up:

And here is what it looks like open without the photos in it:

I added photos of my cute nieces to it and then gave it to her to show her friends before I took more pictures. Oops! There is another project for her class to and I'll show that on Friday so come on back.

SUPPLIES:

Colors: Soft Suede, Pool Party, River Rock, More Mustard and Very Vanilla
Stamps: Fabulous Phrases
Punches: Jewelry Tag, Round Tab, Small Oval, Curly Label, 1" and 1-1/4" Circles, Modern Label and Word Window.
Big Shot: Top Note Bigz Die and Square Scallop Duo Bigz Die
Tools: Simply Scored
Accessories: Spice Cake Designer Series Paper and Buttons, Very Vanilla Seam Binding, Soft Suede 3/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Pool Party Ruffled Ribbon, silver brads, Neutral buttons

Perfect Pennant Cards

2011-10-21T06:00:00.000-06:00

Today, I promised a closer look at the cards I made for last weekend's Stampin' Addicts Big Shot Blog Hop.

The first card came to me early, early one morning in the moments between sleep and awake. Obviously the blog hop was on my mind that morning a few weeks back. When I have these early morning inspirations, they don't always turn out. Fortunately, this time it did:


Colors: Garden Green, Real Red, More Mustard, Whisper White. Stamps: Kidoodles and Christmas Greetings. Big Shot: Perfect Pennants Die. Accessories: Garden Green Grosgrain Ribbon, Brads, Many Marvelous Markers.

A few details to point out about the card. I love this little elf. He's the whole reason I purchased this set, even though the set cover several card-giving reasons. I sponged the edges of the paper to make it pop a little more. Love that simple, yet messy technique. I used the medium-sized pennants to really bring the focus on that cute elf. And last, I ran the ribbon through the scallops to provide an anchor to the elf image too.

The other card I made actually came to me as I was writing my blog hop post. I realized I didn't have a project that featured the smallest pennant or the other medallion shape. So voila! This is what I came up with at the last possible minute:

Colors: Melon Mambo, Lucky Limeade and Blushing Bride. Stamps: Easy Events. Big Shot: Perfect Pennant, Circles #2 Die. Punches: 1-3/4" circle and Word Window. Accessories: Many Marvelous Markers, Rhinestone Brads, Whisper White 3/8" taffeta ribbon, Dazzling Details.

I love how the small pennants made the harlequin design on the card. The points don't exactly meet up perfectly in the middle so I put the brads on there to cover up the overlap. I fed the ribbon through the holes in the scallops to soften the look of the card just a bit. Lastly, I added the Dazzling Details Glitter Glue to the "frosting" on the cupcake to add a little more bling.

So as you can see, the Perfect Pennant Die is very, very versatile and perfect for so many different projects. I'd love to see what you've created with this die. Post a link in the comment section (or just leave me a little love if you wish).

Perfect Pennants Take on Fabric

2011-10-19T06:00:00.000-06:00

Here is a closer look at the "quilt square" I made for this past weekend's blog hop. I had a lot of nice comments on it so thank you. I have attempted quilts before and I come from a long line of quilters, but I gave up sewing several years ago so my skills are pretty rusty.

But I LOVE the Spice Cake Designer Series Fabric. It reminds me of my grandmother. So I really wanted to give this a try.

I apologize that I did not take pictures of this as I was putting it together. I wasn't sure it was even going to work when I started because nine pieces of paper cut with the same die does not produce the same result (the seam allowance makes up the difference. So being unsure, I just jumped right in with the sewing machine and started sewing them together. Luckily it worked. The only advice I would offer if you are going to use this die to make these triple windmills, is to trim the point off of them, just a titch.

The other random concern I had was that most quilt blocks I know anything about have an even number of sides. This shape has nine sides. How the heck was I going to be able to do anything with that? So I decided the easiest thing to do was to applique it to the fabric instead of trying to figure out a border for it.

Once I got it on the square, I noticed this ribbon sitting next to my desk. I knew it belonged on there somehow. If I ever learned how to do mitered corners, I had completely forgotten how to do them. So thank goodness Al invented the Internet. Google knows all, right?

The button in the center was added for two reasons. First it just looked so cute. Second, due to my rusty sewing skills, the center wasn't quite perfect. But I love these big buttons more than I ever thought I would. So I put a piece of ribbon through it and used a little fabric glue to adhere it.

I'm still not quite sure what I'm going to do with this thing. A pillow? A wall hanging? If you have any great ideas, please share them in the comment section.

STAMPIN' UP! SUPPLIES:Spice Cake Designer Series Fabric and Buttons, Soft Suede 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain and 3/8" Taffeta Ribbon.

Paula's Pefectly Pink Princess Pennants

2011-10-17T05:00:00.000-06:00

I hope you had the opportunity to check out the Stampin' Addict Blog Hop this weekend. Isn't there some amazing talent on that site? If you missed it -- it's not too late. The posts are deep linked together so you can still hop along. You can start here.

I promised a closer look at my Princess Banner today so here it is. First, I knew I wanted to make banner when featuring this die because I love banners and that is exactly what the die is designed to make. But I'm not entirely sure why I picked to make a pink princess banner. I am the mom of two boys. I grew up with four brothers. So I've never really been surrounded by pink and princesses. Heck, I don't even know what I'm going to do with this banner. But my family has a trip to Disneyland planned so maybe I'm just getting my inner princess on. :)

Here is the banner. Sorry the picture isn't better. I think I've figured out how to get decent pictures of cards and small 3D projects, but banners are really hard for me. You can click on the picture to see it a little clearer:

Here is a closer look at the end pennants.

Notice how I ran each pennant through the Big Shot with the Polka Dot Embossing Folder to give it some texture. To each of the end pennants, I added a lollie and a flower button.

Here's a closer look at the letter pennants:

The letter pennants feature the 2-3/8" scallop circle and 1-3/4" circle punches. I used the Simple Letters Die and cut them out of the silver glitter paper that is in the Holiday Mini catalog to give it some fun sparkle and shine. On the ends of these pennants, I also used some more flower buttons to the tips. And notice the trim on the edges? Here's a look at the back:

To achieve this look, I used the Pinking Hearts Boarder Punch on thin strips of card stock and glued it along the edges of each pennant.

And of course, you need the supply list. Here you go:

COLORS: Melon Mambo, Lucky Limeade, Pink Pirouette

BIG SHOT: Perfect Pennants & Simple Letters Dies, Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Embossing Folder

PUNCHES: 2-3/8" Scallop, 1-3/4", and 1" Circles and Pinking Hearts Border

RIBBONS: Very Vanilla 1/8" Taffeta, Pink Pirouette 3/8" Taffeta, Lucky Limeade 3/8" Ruffled Ribbon

ACCESSORIES: Silver Glitter Paper, Rose Red, Old Olive and Pretty in Pink Buttons

TOOLS: Simply Scored, Crop-a-Dile

Stampin' Addicts Big Shot Blog Hop: Perfect Pennants

2011-10-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to stop #8 on the Stampin' Addicts Big Shot Blog Hop! If you've hopped on over from Sharon's Created By You then you've already seen the fun things she did with the Bitty Box Die. If this is your first stop on the blog hop, no worries. All the blogs are looped together so you won't miss a thing. If you get lost at any time, you can also hop on over to Stampin' Addicts for a complete list of all the participating blogs or just to chat it up.

I love alliterations almost as much as Stampin' Up! does. So when it came to picking a die, Perfect Pennants seemed like a natural choice for a stamper named Paula. The options with the great shapes on this die are endless. Even as I was taking pictures, I thought of a couple more fun uses for it that will have to wait for another day. I'm going to share four projects with you today and then I'll share more details on each next week. (Click on any picture to see a larger version).

I love to make banners so I knew I needed this die. So naturally, my first project for this hop is exactly what Stampin' Up! envisioned when it was designed: a banner. The largest triangle on this die is 4-1/2" tall and about 3-1/2" wide. So you can make longer words with it than you could with the previous pennant die Stampin' Up! offered which was significantly larger. I also used the big shot to texture each pennant with the polka dot embossing folder. Come back on Monday to learn more about this banner and how I put it together.

One of the great things about the Big Shot steel-ruled dies is they cut so many different materials - including eight layers of fabric at once. Here I used the Big Shot to cut some of Stampin' Up!'s Designer Fabric with the largest triangle. After sewing them together, I appliqued it to a square of fabric and added a border of ribbon. I'll have more details on this project on Wednesday.

Not only does the die offer three different pennant/triangle shapes, it also has two scalloped circle medallions on it as well. This card features the midsized triangle and one of medallions. Another great thing about steel-ruled dies is the ability to have a lot of detail. Notice the medallions have the cute cut outs in the scallops.

This second card features the smallest of the three triangles and the other medallion. Next Friday, I will share the details of both of these cards.

As you can tell this is one die you will definitely want in your Big Shot repertoire. Thanks for stopping by today and be sure to come back for a closer look next week. Now you can hop on over to Betty's Kitty Stamp for a look at another of my favorite dies: the Candy Wrapper. Happy Hopping!

Ode to my Big Shot

2011-10-12T06:30:00.000-06:00

Maybe you were expecting a lyrical poem with a title like that. But I am no poet, so I thought maybe I'd spare you a really bad poem with rhyming words my first grader suggested and jump right to the chase. This weekend is the Stampin' Addicts Big Shot Blog Hop and I am really excited to share with you the projects I have been making for it. Eighteen stampers/bloggers will each feature a different Big Shot die and you will really get a look at how versatile this little machine really is.

If you are a regular here on my blog, then you already know how much I love my Big Shot. I have had several die cut machines over the years so when Stampin' Up! first added the Big Shot to their line up I was skeptical. But once I got my hands on it, it was love at first cut. I gave away one machine, put another in my kids' craft box and put the other in the storage room. But my Big Shot sits next to my craft table and I use it almost every time I craft.

You can cut over 40 different materials with the steel-ruled dies made for the Big Shot. I'll admit I have probably only tried six or seven different materials myself, but I love having options. And I love that the Big Shot also can add texture to your projects using the Textured Impression Embossing Folders, Texture Plates or Letterpress Plates. It also makes 3D projects quick and easy by cutting and scoring boxes at the same time.

The icing on the cake would be to get this baby for FREE!!! Join Stampin' Up! this month and you can get your very own Big Shot for free with your starter kit. Then you too will learn to love it just as much as I do.

I know what your thinking, we didn't come here to have you gush over the Big Shot, we want to see some projects!!! Well here ya go:

First, some of those easy boxes I was telling you about. I made these as a prize for one of my classes last spring but I never got around to sharing them here:

Colors: Chocolate Chip, Certainly Celery, Bashful Blue and Pretty in Pink. Big Shot: Match Box Bigz XL Die and Fun Flowers Bigz L Die. Accessories: Retired Designer Series Paper, Pearl Jewels.

And a card featuring one of the Textured Impressions Embossing Folders that I just love:

Colors: Early Espresso, Whisper White, Always Artichoke. Stamps: Four Frames, You're A Gem. Big Shot: Framed Tulip Embossing Folder. Punches: Decorative Label and Small Oval. Accessories: Paisley Petals Designer Series Paper, Always Artichoke Seam Binding, Gold Brads.

Be sure to come back on Friday for the Blog Hop so you can see my creations made with the Perfect Pennants die, as well as all the other projects.

A Yummy Recipe and Sketch Challenge

2011-10-10T06:30:00.000-06:00

A big thank you to all the people who came to my Spook-tacular Stampin' Buffet this weekend. I hope everyone had as much fun as I did.

I had a lot of requests for the recipe for the Chicken Enchilada Dip I served this weekend. But before I share that, I figured since this is a stamping blog and not a cooking blog, I should share a card first. This was last week's Stampin' Addicts Sketch Challenge.

Colors: River Rock, Pear Pizzazz, Soft Suede. Stamp Sets: Thankful Thoughts. Punches: Oval. Accessories: Spice Cake Designer Series Paper, Spice Cake Buttons, and Pear Pizzazz Seam Binding.

And now for the recipe:

Chicken Enchilada Dip
2 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 small can green chilis
1/2 cup sour cream
4 oz. cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheese (I use a four cheese Mexican blend)

Blend all ingredients together and place half of recipe in a "Little Dipper" crock pot. Heat and serve with tortilla chips. Refill crock pot as needed.

I've never done it, but I'm guessing your could used canned chicken in this recipe. And if you needed a lot of it all at once, you could probably put it in a larger crock pot too. Just watch it, because it will start to burn after 3 hours or so. I did use low fat cream cheese and sour cream in it this time too.

I know someone gave me this recipe, but I can't remember who and I'm fairly certain I modified whatever recipe they gave me to the one above. I've served it now twice at Stampin' Buffets and it has been a huge hit both times. Enjoy!

EEK!!

2011-10-07T06:30:00.000-06:00

I have one more Halloween project to show you. (Well, I really can't promise it's the last since Halloween is still three weeks away but it's all I already have made to show you.)

Supplies: Basic Black Craft Ink; Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder, Heat Tool, Big Shot Serif Essential Alphabet, Wicked Cool Stamp Set, Stazon Black, Just Eat Cake Designer Series Paper. Chipboard scraps and frame from unknown source.

This project was inspired by a fellow Alhambra High Alumnus and Facebook Friend, Jody Piper. She actually put each letter in it's own frame and spelled BOO in addition to EEK. But I knew somewhere under the stairs in the storage room I had a few of these frames which would be perfect for this type of project.

One of the things I just LOVE about having my own Big Shot is the instant access to chipboard letters. I still have random packages of letters from before my Big Shot days and I always hated that I had to buy multiple packages so that I could spell things like "eek" and "boo". Now I just cut out exactly what I need. Remember, if you join my team this month, you get your own Big Shot free!!

I made these all sparkly by sponging them with Basic Black Craft ink and then sprinkling Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder and heat setting them. I love how chipboard turns out with this technique. (I will admit to sprinkling them with Dazzling Diamonds Glitter the first time instead - which by the way does NOT work so don't try it at home. I actually knew it wouldn't work, but I had some in a little unlabeled container and I thought it was embossing powder. I couldn't figure out why it wouldn't "process" and just blew off the letters. So learn from my mistake please.)

I tried to find some more frames like this so I could offer it at my Halloween class this weekend, but I don't really remember where I bought them and I did a little hunting around and couldn't find anymore.

Thanks Jody for the inspiration!

Triangle Box Tutorial

2011-10-05T06:30:00.000-06:00

I promised to post this last week but didn't have a camera to take the pictures. Now that is resolved and I can show you step by step how to make a triangle box.

You can use any size rectangle to make these boxes. The longer the rectangle, the skinnier the box. I generally use a 4-1/4" x 11 sheet of card stock so I can get two out of each sheet of card stock.

First step is to put your card stock on your Simply Scored board and score in half. So for a 4-1/4"x11" piece of card stock, you would score it at 5-1/2". I used a white gel pen on the score lines for this tutorial so you could really see where it is.

*SIMPLY SCORED TIP: My eyes do not see a straight line and those little 1/8" score lines, while super handy, are very hard to keep straight for me especially when scoring at a diagonal. To remedy this, I took a white gel pen and ran it down the score lines I use the very most: 4-1/4" and 5-1/2".

Next, you want to turn your card stock the other way and find the center point of the rectangle. For the size I made, that would be at 2-1/8". I just put a little notch on the paper - you can do a little indent with your score tool, or mark it with a pencil. Again, I did it with the gel pen. It's that little tiny mark at the top.

Now you need to run a score line from the middle notch down to that middle score line. This is where the white lines on my score board come in really handy.

Then turn it the other way and do the same thing. Then repeat the last three steps on the other side.

Now you are ready to fold. Just fold the box along all the score lines towards the center of the box.

To close the box, just fold it up the middle line and gather the sides in together. You will want the flaps of the front of the box on top of the flaps from the back.

To keep the box closed, take your Crop-O-Dile and punch holes through both sides as shown in the picture.

Then thread a piece of ribbon through the holes as shown in the picture.

Then pull it tight and tie a knot or bow.

Now use your imagination to decorate your triangle box and turn it into anything you dare. I would
love to hear your ideas for what you plan to turn them into (or maybe what you already have) here in the comment section. Thanks for stopping by! I promise to have another fun project to show you on Friday!

October Promotions

2011-10-03T19:20:00.001-06:00

Sorry I went MIA last week. My much beloved camera died. It's been coming since our Yosemite trip in July but finally gave up the ghost. So I spent most of the week researching the latest in digital point and shoot cameras and trying to decide what to buy. I'm horrible at making these kinds of decisions so it takes me a really, really long time to figure it out. Happily, my husband forced me to buy one on Saturday so I can get back to my life now.

I'm back this week. And since it's the first of the month, there all all kinds of new things going on with Stampin' Up! for me to tell you about.

First, Stampin' Up's offering a special this month in honor of World Card Making Day. Purchase any two Simply Sent Kits and get a FREE coordinating Stamp Set. The Simply Sent and Coordinating Stamp Sets are on pages 192-193 of the Idea Book and Catalog. Each kit contains 8 coordinating cards bases, accents or embellishments, and envelopes for between $11.95 and $13.95 each. The coordinating Stamp Sets each have 2 greetings in them and you have your choice of three different sets. They are great for making quick cards and make wonderful gifts.

Stampin' Up! is offering one of its best recruiting promotions ever this month. Join my Stampin' Up! team this month and get a free BIG SHOT die cutting machine!! The starter kit is already an amazing deal, containing over $345 of merchandise for only $175. But if you include the value of the Big Shot, you get $445 worth of merchandise for only $175. Don't want a Big Shot (GASP!!!) or already have one, choose $100 in catalog merchandise FREE!

One of the great things about being a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator is the freedom to build your business your own way. If you don't want to order anything but the starter kit just for the great deal, you never have to place another order again and you get to keep everything that comes in the kit (although you will want to because your first order over $150 in the first 45 days is 30% off.) But if you want to make it a business, you can do that too. And if you reach certain milestones in your first six month, Stampin' Up! will give you a $175 cash bonus -- making your starter kit free. Contact me today for more information.

And iIf you've never checked out the Stampin' Up Clearance Rack, now would be a GREAT time. Stampin' Up! has just added several recently retired items to the the Clearance Rack but they are only available online (not at a workshop or class) and only available while supplies last. Save up to 60% on ribbon, Designer Series Paper, Big Shot accessories, and much more. You won't want to miss out on these great deals.

Now I just have to figure out how to get the pictures OFF my camera and I can post the Triangle Box tutorial I promised last week. Stay tuned!

Hexagon Box and the winner is . . .

2011-09-27T07:44:00.001-06:00

I know, I usually post on Mondays, but I got thrown off schedule by the giveaway so you're getting your Monday post on Tuesday. :)

Thanks to everyone who participated in my Halloween Giveaway this weekend. And without further adieu, the winner is: KIM LOOSLE!! :) Congratulations Kim. Your calendar will be on it's way soon. :)

And now here is a little something for those of you that didn't win. A picture tutorial on the hexagon box. This weekend, I showed you one turned into a pumpkin:

But at my class earlier this month, I offered the same box but in a more generic theme:

My first grader has been learning all about shapes this past month. And not just rectangles, circles and triangles, but things I didn't learn about until I was in high school geometry: parallelograms, trapezoids and rhombuses. I had to look some of those up because it's been a long time since Ms. Martin's class. I was actually relieved when we got back to simple shapes, like the hexagon. So it was easy for me to come up with the name for these.

Brian Pilling showed these at convention this summer so I couldn't wait to try one for myself. They are made with the Big Shot Milk Carton Die (and I love when I can find a new use for these dies) but I had a hard time finding a tutorial for them. So here is mine:

1) Start out with 2 die cuts from the milk carton die:

2) With the tab on the left, cut off the far right panel along the score line on both die cuts.

3) Using a ruler and a stylus or bone folder, score a diagonal line down on the middle top section of the milk carton die. That might not be very clear, but if you are familiar with the milk carton die, then you know that two of the sections already have an upside down "v" scored into them. You are simply adding a line so that all three are pretty much the same. The line that is already there isn't quite to the middle so it doesn't have to be exact.

4) Fold along all of the score lines as pictured and add sticky strip to the tabs. Adhere to box together.

5) The trickiest part is getting the box into the proper hexagon shape. I found the easiest way to do this was to flip it over and then match up the tabs directly across from each other as shown. Don't adhere to strongly to start with because if you put them too close together, you want to be able to go back and fix it.

6) Then line up the next set of tabs that are across from each other like this:

7) And finally the last set of tabs:

Turn your box over and decorate to your liking. You can close the box buy punching small holes on each top section and using thread or ribbon to tie it shut. Or if you've creased the score lines just right, you should be able to push it down and it will hold itself closed.

I hope you enjoyed this little photo tutorial. I had a request last week to show clearer directions on the triangle box and I will be doing that later this week so be sure to check back.

Halloween Week Giveaway!

2011-09-24T06:30:00.000-06:00

I know, you're all here for the BLOG CANDY, but before we get to that, I have a few more projects to share with you.

This is not a new project. I offered a very similar Frankie Box at my class two years ago but I had a special request to offer it again this year. This year, I've added a new touch: see those bolts coming out of his head, I made those with the new Stocking Builder punch to make those.

Colors: Lucky Limeade, Elegant Eggplant, Whisper White and Basic Black. Big Stamps: Smarty Pants. Big Shot: Top Note Die. Punches: 1-1/4", 1" and 3/4" Circles, Round Tab, Stocking Builder. Accessories: Marker, cellophane bag, Old Olive 1/8 taffeta ribbon

During the Holiday Mini Blog Hop, Heidi over at RunningwScissorsStamper featured a Milk Carton turned into Haunted House and I knew I wanted to make simple one that could be easily duplicated at a class. You can't tell from this picture, but on the bottom has a tab on it so you can fill it with candy and still access it without destroying the box.

Colors: Elegant Eggplant and Basic Black. Stamps: Spooky Bingo Bits. Big Shot: Milk Carton Die and Square Lattice Embossing folder. Punches: Scallop Edge.

And I love pumpkins. So a Halloween Week would not be complete without a pumpkin box. I'll have a tutorial on these next week. At my class you will have your choice of turning it into a jack-o-lantern or just keep it a simple pumpkin with a ribbon around it.

Colors: Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black, Old Olive. Big Shot: Milk Carton Die. Punches: 3/4" circle, 1" square. Accessories: Old Olive Scallop Dotted Ribbon, Pumpkin Pie Prints Designer Series Paper

And now, finally what you've all been waiting for: BLOG CANDY!!!! To be eligible for the drawing, you have to be a follower of this blog or my Facebook Page. (If you aren't already, you can do either from the left side bar on my main blog page.) Then leave a comment on this post telling me your favorite project that I've posted during Halloween Week. If you refer a friend to my blog and they mention your name in the comment section, you will get a second entry into the drawing. Comments must be posted by midnight MDT on Monday, September 26. And what fabulous prize could you win?

A Countdown to Halloween Board!! I will randomly draw the winner on Tuesday, September 27 and post the winner that day. (You must have a US mailing address to win the prize). Good luck!!

Halloween Cards

2011-09-23T06:30:00.000-06:00

I still have two days of Halloween Projects to share with you. If you missed any of the posts this week, you can click on them in the Blog Archive to see them all.

Today I'm sharing a couple more Halloween Cards. What? You don't send cards for Halloween? You really should. Last year I sent a stack of them and they were very well received. Who wouldn't want to get a fun Halloween Card? Or how about putting one on your child's pillow or lunch bag? See, now you're going to send Halloween Cards, right.


Colors: Tangerine Tango, Daffodil Delight, Whisper White, and Basic Black. Stamps: Teeny Tiny Messages and Spooky Bingo Bits. Punches: Petite Pennants, Word Window. Accessories: Black Brads.

I love this punch for so many different things, but especially for Candy Corn. I know I'm not the first person to sue it for this purpose but I don't know who to credit for the original idea. I think this card pretty much sums up my kids' expectation for Halloween: Candy, Candy, Candy, Candy!

Colors: Concord Crush, Peach Parfait, Basic Black, Whisper White. Stamps: Warmest of Wishes and Teeny Tiny Messages. Big Shot: Little Leaves Sizzlet. Punches: 2-1/2" Circle, Word Window, Owl Builder Punch. Accessories: Pumpkin Pie Grosgrain Ribbon, Markers.

I love this owl too. He is from the Hostess Set "Warmest Wishes" in the Holiday Mini Catalog and it matches the punch perfectly so you don't have to cut it out.

I'll be posting the last three Halloween projects and some BLOG CANDY tomorrow. You won't want to miss out on that! We'll see you then!

Halloween Triangle Boxes

2011-09-22T06:30:00.000-06:00

Hope you aren't tired of Halloween projects yet because I have several more to share with you. Today it's the triangle box. These are simple boxes that can be made into so many different things. (My regular customers will recognize it as the Santa Hats from last year's Christmas Classes).

My first idea was to turn the triangle box into Candy Corn:

Colors: Whisper White, Tangerine Tango, Daffodil Delight. Accessories: Simply Scored, Daffodil Delight Ribbon.

I just didn't love it as much as I thought I would, but you tell me what you think. Maybe it's because I don't just love Candy Corn. I'd much rather eat yummy caramel instead. Then while I was searching for something else online I came along several different versions of a triangle box Witches Hat. So this is my take on that:

Colors: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Whisper White. Stamps: Spooky Bingo Bits, Wicked Cool, and It's a Wrap Holidays. Punches: Curly Label, 1" circle, and small oval. Accessories: Pumpkin Pie Prints Designer Series Paper and Grosgrain Ribbon, Silver Shimmer Paint, Brushed Silver Card Stock.

At my Spook-tacular Stampin' Buffet, you can choose to fill these hat boxes with chocolate nuggets that are decorated with the It's A Wrap Holiday stamps. Just a cute little touch.

Triangle Boxes are very easy to make. Start with any size rectangle. The skinner the rectangle, the taller the box. Both of mine are 4-1/4"x11. Then you just score in the middle on the long end. Find the middle of the ends and then score from that point to the edge of the middle score line. Clear as mud? Here's a little diagram that might help.

So you score where it is orange and then fold up the box. Punch holes in the top to tie shut. So simple!

Come back for a look at a couple Halloween Cards tomorrow and some BLOG CANDY on Saturday!!! You won't wan to miss that!

Spooky View-Master Card

2011-09-21T06:30:00.000-06:00

Remember the old View-Masters? I loved these when I was a kid. My kids have had one but they just didn't appreciate it the way I did. I suppose when you have a plethora of electric gadgets and gizmos that make noise and do other crazy things then the old fashioned View-Master might be a bit low tech for kids today.

Today's card pays homage to these toys. It's called a View-Master card because you spin the dial on the side and a different image comes up in the hole.

Colors: Lucky Limeade, Rich Razzleberry, Pumpkin Pie. Stamps: Spooky Bingo Bits. Big Shot: Clear Circle Bigz Die. Punches: 1-3/4" Scallop, 1-3/8", 1-1/4", & 1" Circles. Accessories: Bright Collection Brads, Basic Black Dotted Scallop Ribbon, Pumpkin Pie Grosgrain Ribbon.

When I saw this Spooky Bingo Bits Stamp set, I knew I wanted to make one of these cards with it. Each of the 24 images are designed to fit on the Bingo Background stamp, but work perfectly for this kind of card and plenty of other projects too. I picked two of the images, the bat and "spooky" and stamped the front of this card and then picked out four other images for the spinner.

Want to see those other images and how it works? Check out this little video:

I just love cards with interactive features on them. This card will be featured at my Spook-tacular Stampin' Buffet on October 7 & 8 so you can make one of your very own. And be sure to check back tomorrow for a couple of Halloween triangle box ideas and don't miss Saturday's BLOG CANDY!!

Lolli, Lolli, Lolli Get Your Adverbs Here

2011-09-20T06:30:00.000-06:00

I promised on Monday to show you how to make the lollies that were on my Halloween Banner.

But first, I can't be the only person around who thinks of this every time she hears the word lolli:

Good luck getting that song out of your head.

Want to make some of these lollies yourself? Stampin' Up!'s new Simply Scored Tool makes it very simple since it has so many score lines on it. For the size I made, I started with a 1"x12" strip of Designer Series Paper.

Place the strip your score board. Start at 1/4" and score every half inch. (1/4", 3/4", 1-1/4", 1-3/4", 2-1/4", 2-3/4", etc, etc.)

Flip the piece of paper over and score at 1/2" and every half inch. (1/2", 1", 1-1/2", 2", 2-1/2" etc. etc.)

Tip: If you are making several of these at a time, score before you cut into 1" strips. (So for four lollies of this size, you would score a 4"x12" strip of paper and then cut it into four 1" strips.)

Next accordion fold the strips along the score lines so it looks like this:

To glue them together, you are going to want something extra sticky. I've heard many people use a hot glue gun, but I used Mono Multipurpose Liquid Glue without any problem at all. bring the ends together so you have something that looks like this:

Next, you want to push them down to make the medallion shape. The easiest way I found to stabilize these was to apply a punched out circle to the back. (Doesn't matter the size or color really since you won't see it from the front anyway.) Simply apply adhesive to the circle and glue it to the back of the lolli.

When you flip it over you get something like this:

Notice I have a hole in the middle of mine. That was because I wanted that lolli to be just a smidgen bigger. You can adjust the size of you lolli by the size of the hole in the middle.

Now apply that lolli to some fun project like my Halloween Banner or something else. You can also play around with the size of strip and the distance between scorelines to make bigger and smaller ones. Here's a slightly bigger one on a card:

Colors: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie. Stamp Set: Grateful Greetings. Tools: Simply Scored. Punches: Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border, Decorative Label, 1-3/8"& 1-3/4" circles. Accessories: Pick You Poison Designer Series Paper, Mini Silver Brads.

A reminder that we will be making the banner and the card at my Spook-tacular Stampin' Buffet on October 7 & 8 if you want to get some practice. Hope to see you there!

Still singing, "Lolli, Lolli, Lolli? Try thinking about It's a Small World instead.

Come back tomorrow to see a "viewmaster" Halloween Card And I promise, no more songs -- at least not tomorrow.

And Saturday, there will be BLOG CANDY so be sure to come back then too. :)

This is Halloween!

2011-09-19T06:30:00.000-06:00

Welcome to Halloween Week here on Stampin' with Paula! Everyday this week, I'll be posting a look at Halloween projects, many of which will be offered at my Spook-tacular Stampin' Buffet October 7 & 8.

I set out last week to make a Halloween banner with the new Perfect Pennants Big Shot Die. I gave you a sneak peek at it on Friday but here it is: (click on the picture to get a better view).

Colors: Basic Black, Lucky Limeade, Pumpkin Pie, Rich Razzleberry. Big Shot: Perfect Pennant Bigz L, and Alphabet Simple Letters Bigz Dies. Punches: 1-3/4", 1-1/4" and 3/4" circle punches. Tools: Simply Scored, Crop-A-Dile. Accessories: Brights Designer Buttons, Silver Brads, Basic Black 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon.

I was a little sad when Stampin' Up retired the larger pennant die for the Big Shot. But, this die is perfect for banners with more letters on them. After all, if I had made one that said "HALLOWEEN" with the old one, you would have needed a very long wall on which to hang it. So the smaller pennants on this new die are just right. Each pennant is 4-1/2" tall and the entire banner is approximately 3' long with the ribbon ties on the end.

Usually I string banners together with ribbon, but this time I decided to use brads to put it together. You can see that I alternated the pennants top to bottom to do this. Once I got the lollies (paper medallions) and the letters on there, I decided to add the buttons on a whim. Do you like them?

I will be offering this banner at my Spook-tacular Stampin' Buffet on October 7 & 8 if you would like to make one for your very own for $12. Can't come, and still want a banner like this (or any other for that matter) - I can make it for you for an additional fee. Just contact me and let me know what you want.

For some strange reason, every time I look at this banner, the song from Nightmare Before Christmas (or the Haunted Mansion Halloween at Disneyland) runs through my head and I can't make it stop (the song starts about a minute into the video):

Come back tomorrow and I'll show you step by step how to make those cute lollies that are on the banners and introduce you to another catchy tune that I just can't seem to shake.

Doin' the Happy Dance!!!

2011-09-18T17:35:00.002-06:00

Remember this fun card? I found out today that it won the Thinking of You Creative Challenge over on SoShelli.com. I've never won anything like this before and I have to admit that I'm totally over the moon about it. I love this little turtle and had so much fun making this card. I'm also grateful for the FREE RUBBAH that is coming my way. Stay tuned to see what I requested. :)

You can check out all the other beautiful winners on Shelli Gardner's Blog. And you can also submit an entry for the September Christmas Card Challenge. (You don't have to be a demonstrator to win, but you do have to create a card with Stampin' Up! products). All you have to do is create a beautiful Christmas Card and post it on a blog or in a public gallery and then post a link to it in the comment section for this month's challenge. Then you too can enjoy some FREE RUBBAH!!!

Just Be Thankful

2011-09-16T06:30:00.000-06:00


Colors: Calypso Coral, Very Vanilla, Basic Black. Stamps: Just Believe. Punches: Decorative Label. Accessories: First Edition Specialty Designer Series Paper, Calypso Coral Ruffled Ribbon, 1/4" Black Grosgrain Ribbon.

Earlier this week, I showed you a Thank You Card we'll be making at Susie's private Thank You Card class. This is the other one. Just Believe was my favorite new stamp set in the 2010-2011 Idea Book and Catalog. Sometimes I get sooo busy using the new products, I forget about the older favorites so it was fun to pull this one out again. I just love using this image as a silhouette like in this example, or coloring the stamp with markers for a more natural look.

It also morphed into this week's Stampin' Addicts Sketch Challenge. Anyone is invited to play along in any of the great challenges we offer at Stampin' Addicts. The site also has a wonderful Stampin' Up! only gallery organized by stamp set that anyone can visit any time. Ever stumped on what to do with a particular stamp set, or just need new ideas for an old favorite, the Stampin' Addict Gallery will inspire you!

I also wanted to share with you a little sneak peek of a project I've been working on this week for my Spooktacular Stampin' Buffet. Starting next week, you'll start to see a lot of Halloween Projects, including the rest of this fun project, posted here so stay tuned!!

And I'm trying out some new share it tools. Try them out and tell me what you think!

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The Open Seas still available

2011-09-14T06:30:00.000-06:00

Generally, when the Summer Mini Catalog ends, all the stamps, papers and embellishments that didn't make it into the Idea Book and Catalog are no longer available. This year, Stampin' Up! made an exception with one of my favorite sets from the Summer Mini: The Open Seas.

This set is perfect for masculine cards for any occasion: birthday, Father's Day, graduation, retirement, sympathy, etc, etc. I think I also love it because it reminds me of growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area with lots of nautical-themed things all around. Here are a couple of cards I've made with this set:

Colors: Soft Suede, Cherry Cobbler, Very Vanilla. Stamps: The Open Seas. Punches: 1-1/4" and 1-3/8" circles. Accessories: Retired Designer Series Paper, Vintage Trinkets.

Colors: Crumb Cake, Not Quite Navy and Whisper White. Stamps: The Open Seas. Accessories: Baker's Twine, Retired Designer Series Paper.

The set comes with five coordinating stamps including the ship, globe, compass, and anchor images and a larger background image that looks like a handwritten ship log. (That ships log also reminds me of census records and could be used for all kinds of heritage scrapbooking.)

You can order the stamp set online or anytime by contacting me. It is available in both clear mount (item 123032) for $18.95 and wood mount (item 123030) for $23.95. It is also available as a digital download for My Digital Studio (item 124112) for $3.95. Unfortunately, the coordinating Designer Series Paper is no long available as paper, but is available as a digital download for My Digital Studio (item 124111) for $4.95.

Today is also the last day to RSVP for my All Occasions Buffet this weekend. Don't miss out! Let me know today what you'd like to make and how many of each. You can see all the projects here: Sept. Stampin' Buffet. I hope to see you there!

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Sketch Challenge Inspiration

2011-09-12T06:30:00.000-06:00

Last week, I had the opportunity to be at the Stampin' Up! home offices in Riverton, Utah. I love going there because it is just so inspiring. One of the things I love to look at when I'm there is the international catalogs they have in the lobby.

As I was flipping through the pages of the New Zealand Idea Book and Catalog, a particular sample caught my eye and I immediately thought, that would make a great sketch challenge. Surely, it can't be in our catalog too because I would have noticed it. Right?

Wrong! There it is on page 128 with the Notably Ornate stamp set. Not sure why I never noticed it before. But it was the perfect inspiration for last week's Stampin' Addicts sketch challenge (sketch challenge 109 for those of you keeping track at home). Here's the sketch:

And here is what I created with the sketch:

Colors: Lucky Limeade, Pool Party, Island Indigo, Whisper White. Stamps: Easy Events. Punches: 1-3/4" and 2-3/8" Scallop Circles. Accessories: Island Indigo Ruffled Ribbon, Stampin' Write Markers, Crystal Effects

I needed to design a card for a private card class I have coming up next week and this one was perfect. It fit the theme (Thank You cards) and it features the In Colors which I'm featuring a special on the this month.

If you would like to host your own private card class for you and your friends, let me know. It's a great way to spend an afternoon or evening with your friends creating and having fun.Contact me today!

My Digital Studio Recipe Pages

2011-09-09T06:30:00.000-06:00

I can't resist a good swap. And while I didn't sign up for 18 swaps at convention this year like I have in the past, I still signed up for plenty.

One of the easiest swaps I did this year was a My Digital Studio 6x6 recipe swap. Here are two of the recipes I swapped:

Colors: Early Espresso, Pear Pizazz, Cajun Craze. MDS Kits: Autumn Spice, Vintage Brads

Colors: Early Espresso, More Mustard, Pear Pizazz, Cajun Craze. MDS Kits: Autumn Spice, Stitching

Are you wondering how I made 6x6 pages when MDS doesn't currently have a 6x6 option? After picking my background paper, I selected a square punch and resized it to 6x6. You can resize any punch by dragging a corner, but if you need an exact size, like this use the "resize" tool in the Design Center on the right side of you screen. Love this feature!

That 6x6 square became my canvas and I started filling it with page elements. When I had it exactly how I wanted it, I deleted the 6x6 square and then clicked on "Select All" (you can do that through the arrange menu, holding the ctrl button on your keyboard and dragging you mouse over the elements you want to select, or my favorite keyboard shortcut - ctrl + A. Then I grouped them together using the arrange menu or ctrl + G on your keyboard. This is what it looked like at that point.

Once everything is grouped together, it's easy to move, copy and paste, etc. So that's what I did - dragged it to the top corner, then copied it and pasted it three times to place one in each corner. I used the align tools to make sure they were all exactly even. It looked like this:

After I had that all done, I sent them off to the printer and when they were delivered to my doorstep, I cut them into fours and they were ready to swap.

I know what you are thinking though -- what if you don't need four copies of the same 6x6 page? Then instead of filling the back ground with a single Designer Series Paper, you would leave it white and fill your 6x6 square instead and just design four different 6x6 squares, one in each corner.

I hope that all made sense and that maybe you learned something in all of it about My Digital Studio.

Designer Fabric Button Rings

2011-09-07T06:30:00.000-06:00

From L-R: Candy Cane Christmas, Timeless Portrait, Deck the Halls, and Spice Cake Designer Series Fabric.

Aren't these fun? Some gals in my neighborhood made fabric button rings last fall. I knew that Stampin' Up!'s Designer Series Fabric would be perfect for these. And the Big Shot makes it so easy to make them too.

I used the 7/8" button kits that you can get at any fabric store. They have different sizes if you want to make smaller or bigger buttons. You can look for the ring bases with the jewelry-making items at your favorite big box craft store.

For this size of button, you need a 1-3/4" circle of fabric. And how handy is it that Stampin' Up! just happens to have the Circle #2 die for the Big Shot that cuts that size of circle. (And not just one layer of the fabric, but up to 8 layers of fabric at once!!)

Follow the directions on the back of the button kit to assemble the button. Then remove the button shank. I used some pliers and just gave it a good yank and it came right out. Don't twist. I made that mistake the first time and I was sorry. I used Crystal Effects to adhere the buttons to the ring bases and it worked perfectly. (See, it's not just for making colored images shiny. It also works as a strong glue).

I made these as convention gifts for my Stampin' Addicts Sistahs and a few other special friends. They were a big hit! (And no, I don't wear all four of those rings at once, but you could make coordinating ones from the different fabric packages to wear together.)

We will be making these at my All Occasions Stamp Buffet on September 16 & 17. They will be $2.50 each or 3 for $7 and you will have your choice of fabrics to cut and make that day.

Countdown to Halloween

2011-09-05T07:29:00.000-06:00

Last week I showed you a countdown to Christmas. This week I'm sharing a countdown to another holiday that children frequently ask how long til: Halloween. It's also one of the featured projects at my All Occasions Stampin' Buffet this month:

Colors: Perfect Plum, Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black, Whisper White. Stamps: Festive and Fun. Big Shot: Square Scallop Duo, Billboard Decorative Strip. Tools: Crop-a-dile. Accessories: Markers, Chalkboard Decor Element Sheet, Basic Black Scalloped Dot Ribbon, Basic Black and Pumpkin Pie Grosgrain Ribbon. Other: Chalkboard Marker.

The black scallop square is die cut from our Chalkboard Decor Element Sheets so each day you can erase the number and right a new one on there. I used a chalkboard marker to add the dots in the scallop and write the number, but you can use regular chalk as well.

The base of these are some On Board Small Book Basics that Stampin' Up sold a few years back. I've been hoarding a couple of packages of them, but this is the perfect use for them. They measure 5-1/2"x7" so they are the perfect size to hang, or put on an easel.

And notice the Festive and Fun set again? I'm getting a lot of use of this cute set. Love it!

If you want to make one of your own, come September 16 or 17 to my Stampin' Buffet. They are $6 each but I only have a limited number of those boards so RSVP today! You can see all the other projects here: All Occasions Stampin' Buffet. And don't worry too much that this is the only Halloween project this month. Next month will be all about Halloween so stay tuned.

Fun and Festive Swap

2011-09-02T05:30:00.000-06:00

I can't resist a good swap. Especially when a new catalog comes out. So even though Valentines is still months away and we have a lot of really great holidays between now and then, I'm showing you a Valentine's Card that I made for a recent Stampin' Addict Holiday Mini swap.


Colors: Pink Pirouette, Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White. Stamps: Festive and Fun. Punches: Modern Label. Big Shot: Polka Dot Embossing Folder. Accessories: Dazzling Details, Silver Brads, Taffeta Ribbon, Markers, and White Gel Pen.

Sometimes to switch things up a little bit, I like to use Pink Pirouette as a neutral Card Stock. It's a light enough color that it can take other ink on top of it. And the Card Stock itself is a titch thicker than the others so it holds up to coloring pretty well. Here I stamped the Valentine in Black Stazon and colored it with Cherry Cobbler. One of the other fun things about using Pink Pirouette for a base, is then you can use white as an accent. I colored in some of the sections with our white gel pen to give it some more color.

This stamp has that cute heart for a V and I really wanted to make it pop. So I stamped just that heart on Cherry Cobbler and used the white gel pen for the dots. Then I cut it out and used a dimensional on top of the original image on the card.

It does seem very strange to be sharing a Valentines Card in October. At some point in my stamping obsession, I've become oblivious to the calendar and just started stamping whatever, whenever. But this stamp set is only available until January 3 and it does include a cute Christmas and Halloween image too so don't wait until Valentines to order it. You can see more about this set in this previous post: FESTIVE AND FUN SNEAK PEEK.

Happy September!

2011-09-01T08:36:00.001-06:00

September is here! For stampers, that means all the brand new stamps, paper, gadgets and gizmos from the Holiday Mini Catalog are now available! I've showed off several stamps here over the past month and I've even told you some of the other fun things that would be in the catalog. But in case you missed it, here are some hightlights!

The brand new Simply Scored Tool!!! So excited about this (as if the three exclamation points didn't give that away). I've had a different score board for years and I thought I loved it, but I had no idea what I was missing. Stampin' Up's Simply Scored has score lines at every 1/8". It comes with a stylus that fits perfectly in the holder at the bottom and it comes with three removable markers that you can place above any score line to remind yourself where you need to score. All for $29.95.
Pages of brand new Halloween stuff. I hope you got to see samples made with the great Halloween products during the blog hop. Everything from eerie to cute, whatever your Halloween taste, you'll find it in this catalog.
Remember the M&M bags from last year's Halloween Buffet? They are in the catalog! Yay!
Spice Cake Suite! I've professed my love for this suite before. I used it to redecorate my blog in honor of the occasion. What do you think?
New embellishments: Mica Flakes, Mini Jingle Bells, Dazzling Details, and Pewter Embossing Powder just to name a few.
Two different beautiful types of ribbons - 3/8" Velvet Stitched in Very Vanilla and 3/8" Quilted Satin Ribbon in Early Espresso and Cherry Cobbler
New Holiday-themed Personalized Address Stamps
New Big Shot stuff: Textured Embossing folder, Letterpress and 3 new dies including the cutest Christmas Stocking!
Two new punches
A Christmas-themed Simply Scrappin' Kit with a cute matching album
Buttons and Fabric
MUCH, MUCH MORE!

Click on the Holiday Mini Catalog icon on the right there to see the entire thing. Or click in the shop now button and beat the rush!

Also, since it's a new month, that means new Specials!!! And this month, I am offering an exclusive offer that is only available from me! Click on the exclusive offer page above for all the details. Let's just say it involves some of my favorite new things and free stuff!

What are you most excited about in the new Holiday Mini?

Candy Wrapper Countdown

2011-08-31T06:00:00.004-06:00

As promised, today I'm offering you a closer look at the Candy Wrapper Countdown project I featured on the Stampin' Addicts Holiday Mini Blog Hop last weekend. And here it is:

The first thing you should know is that if you click in the above picture, you can get a closer look at all 25 of these beauties.

Last year, when the Candy Wrapper Big Shot die was first introduced, it was more than a little frustrating for more than a few people. I will admit to being one of them. But them my good friend Missi told me about a video on Barb Millikin's blog that took all the frustration out of it. I've made hundreds of these since then and even have shared them at workshops and events. I love this little box now! So if you have a fear of them, check out her video on YouTube.

But even so, 25 was a lot to make at once. Fellow stamp enthusiast, Peggy, left a comment the other day about maybe making just 2 or 3 and then velcroing the tags on to them every few days to reuse the boxes over and over again. That would be one way of doing it for sure. But I envisioned this when I came up with the project:

A bowl full of these cute boxes sitting on my coffee table! So I really needed 25. I'm just hoping that my boys, 6 and 8, don't destroy the boxes so we can reuse them over and over each year. Honestly, I haven't filled these yet but I plan to put small treats in some of them and maybe some slips of paper with holiday activities written on them in others. But I'd love to hear your ideas too so leave a comment with them please (or even just to tell me what you think about the project in general).

Here are a couple of close up pictures:

I wrapped each of the candy wrapper boxes in a piece of Frostwood Lodge Paper. Then to some I added ribbon, including the beautiful new Quilted Satin Ribbon from the Holiday Mini, if it didn't look too busy with the printed papers. It seems like I used ever punch I owned to make the different tags but I listed them all below.

Thanks for stopping by! Don't forget the Holiday Mini Catalog goes live tomorrow, September 1. (Woo Hoo!!!!) Come back on Friday for a look at a couple of cards I made for a Holiday Mini Swap.

Supplies:
Colors: Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso, Garden Green, Whisper White and Marina Mist
Stamps: 25 and Counting from the 2012 Holiday Mini Catalog
Big Shot: Candy Wrapper Bigz L Die
Punches: 1, 1-1/4", 1-3/8" & Scallop Squares; Postage Stamp, 1", 1-1/4", 1-3/8", Scallop Circles; Medium and Large Ovals
Accessories: Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper, Early Espresso Quilted Satin Ribbon, Cherry Cobbler and Marina Mist Scallop Dot Ribbon.

Christmas Countdown Calendar

2011-08-29T05:00:00.003-06:00

I hope you enjoyed the Stampin' Addicts Holiday Mini Blog Hop as much as I did. So many fabulous ideas for the new stamps and other goodies available starting September 1. I promised to give you a closer look at the Countdown to Christmas Calendar today and here it is:

First of all, thank you for all the nice comments on the calendar. It was the project I was most excited about. It was one of those projects that I set aside and then picked it up again the next day and liked it even more. Do you ever do that with projects? It's a much better feeling than picking it up the next day and NOT liking it.

This picture gives you a little perspective on the size of the calendar. I knew I wanted to make a small calendar and originally envisioned using a chipboard coaster. But by a happy coincidence, these metal CD cases were in the same box as my chipboard coasters. And that is was a light bulb moment. Stampin' Up had these on the Clearance Rack a year or so ago. I bought a bunch then, but darn if I don't regret not buying more now that I've discovered this fun use for them.

One of the brilliant things about using the CD case for it is the ability to store the extra numbers inside the case. What's that? How are those numbers sticking to the case?

Magnets of course. You can use any kind of magnet on these, but for economy sake, I used a roll of adhesive magnet strip that you can get at any craft store and cut small pieces to put on the back of each number tag.

I attached the ribbon hanger with glue dots to the inside of the box. When the box is closed, it holds the ribbon in place too.

I will be offering this as a project at my Christmas Card (and Gift) Crank on November18 and 19 if you want to make one of your own. I know I will be making several as gifts this year.

Colors: Cherry Cobbler, Garden Green, Early Espresso, and Whisper White. Stamps: 25 and Counting. Punches: Petite Pennant (Tree), Postage Stamp, 1" Square. Big Shot: Sizzlet Billboard Decorative Strip Alphabet, Scallop Squares Duos. Accessories: Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper, Cherry Cobbler Scallop Dot Ribbon, Garden Green Button, Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine, Cherry Cobbler Brads. Other: CD Tin and Magnets.

Stampin' Addicts Holiday Mini Blog Hop!

2011-08-26T07:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to stop 16 on the Stampin' Addicts' Holiday Mini Blog Hop! I'm so excited to be back in the line up! If you hopped on over from Betty's Kitty Stamp, I hope you enjoyed her fabulous projects with the new Big Shot die. But if you are just starting here, don't worry, all the blogs are hooked together in one big loop so you won't miss a thing.

I get to share with you today some projects with the stamp set 25 and Counting. This fun set features a number from 1-25 incorporated into Christmas-themed images on each stamp -- hence the name. Its is perfect for all kinds of holiday projects but I am just going to share three with you today:

One of the most obvious use for this set is an Advent or Countdown to Christmas calendar. The catalog features a beautiful 12x12 calendar, but I wanted to make something a little smaller. This one was made from a metal CD case. It is the perfect size for a child's room or maybe your desk at work. And since the case opens up, you have a place to store all those numbers when they aren't being used. Fun stuff! It also features the Frostwood Lodge Paper and the new 1" square punch which coordinates perfectly with the stamp set. I'll have more information about how I made this cutie on Monday so be sure to come back.

Here I used the stamps to adorn 25 boxes (made with our exclusive Candy Wrapper Big Shot Die). Each box has some kind of treat in it and my boys will get to open one every day from December 1 - December 25. Still a count down to the Holiday, but this time your loved one gets a little something for each day. If you didn't want to put a treat in it, you could also put a slip of paper with a Holiday Activity on it that you could do each day. It would also work really well for the 12 Days of Christmas. I had a really, really hard time getting a great picture of these so I hope you can at least get the idea. I'll share more details and some close up pictures on Wednesday of next week.

And last, but certainly not least, Bingo Cards! I read this idea somewhere on the 'net but I couldn't find it again so kudos to who suggested it. The images on each of these stamps are less than 1" square so they fit perfectly in the Bingo Card Background Stamp. And the fun thing about this, is you can call out the numbers like traditional bingo B-2 or O-21. My oldest has already asked if we can play Bingo this Christmas.

Thanks for stopping by and be sure to come back Monday and Wednesday for a closer look at the projects. Now you can hop on over to Trina's Stamp and Whiskers to see one of my favorite stamp sets from the Holiday Mini: Fun and Festive or hop on over to Stampin' Addicts for a complete list of participating blogs and to chat it up! Happy Hopping!

In Color Baby Cards

2011-08-24T07:00:00.005-06:00

I set out last week to make some baby cards for my next Stampin' Buffet. I try to either offer a unisex card, or offer the option for a boy card and a girl card. But I also wanted to try colors less tradition than the typical Bashful Blue and Pretty in Pink.

With all that in mind, this is what I came up with:

Colors: Wisteria Wonder/Island Indigo, Lucky Limeade and Very Vanilla. Stamps: Baby Bundle. Big Shot: Scallop Circle #2 and 3" Circle Dies, Polka Dot Embossing Folder. Punches: Modern Label and Word Window. Accessories: Brads, Paper Piercer and Mat Pack.

My love for the new In Colors has been publicly declared many, many times. They are my go-to colors right now. What do you think? Do they work for a baby card?

And don't forget to come back on Friday for the Stampin' Addicts' HOliday Mini Blog Hop! I'll see you then!

Holiday Mini Sneak Peeks: Frostwood Loge Suite

2011-08-22T07:00:00.010-06:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year!!! And no, I'm not talking about Christmas. School starts today for my two boys and I'm so excited to have some structure back in our lives.

More happy news: the Stampin' Addicts' 2011 Holiday Mini Catalog Blog Hop is coming this weekend!! Starting Friday, twenty very talented stampers will share fabulous projects featuring lots of new products from the Holiday Mini. And drum roll please . . . for the first time in two years, I am back in the line up! I'm so excited to show off one of the fun new sets called 25 & Counting, but you'll have to come back on Friday to see that.

However, I won't make you wait until Friday for your weekly sneak peek. Today, I'm sharing two cards made with the Frostwood Lodge Product Suite. One of the best parts of Convention is the Prize Patrol. When they posted this particular prize I told my friend Angie that I knew I was going to win it because I didn't really want it. Sure enough, I did! But free rubbah and papah is always the best kind so I am not complaining.

Because this is not my favorite I had a little trouble creating with it. Don't get me wrong, it is beautiful. It just isn't my particular style. But one of the great things about Stampin' Up is they offer something for everyone. I'm sure there are many, many others who think this paper and stamp set are the best thing since sliced bread and I hope you are one of them.


Colors: Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso, Green Galore, Whisper White. Stamps: Christmas Lodge. Accessories: Basic Rhinestone Jewels, Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper.

The Christmas Lodge Stamp Set Features six stamps including this beautiful tree and greeting. I kept the card simple and just added some wood grain paper from the Frostwood Lodge pack and used our fabulous self-stick rhinestones as ornaments on the tree. I used my markers to ink the greeting. And for the first time in a very long time, I got out the sewing machine to add a some stitching.

Colors: Garden Green, Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White. Stamps: Warmest Wishes Hostess Set, Well Worn Background. Big Shot: Square Lattice Embossing Folder. Accessories: Regal Designer Buttons, Baker's Twine and Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper

This "quilt" card was inspired by a swap I received at convention. The many plaid patterns in the Frostwood Lodge paper remind me of a country quilt so I knew it would be perfect for this kind of card. After I cut the squares and triangles, I pieced it together in a star pattern on a piece of whisper white card stock. Then I ran that through the Square Lattice Embossing Folder to give it a "quilted" look and feel. It's a little hard to tell from the picture, but I also stitched the quilt pattern down with my sewing machine too. The greeting for this card is from the hostess set that will be in the mini catalog.

I also used this suite to make a swap card and will have that to show you next week. So what do you think of the Frostwood Lodge Suite? Is it your style?

How a Sketch Challenge is Born

2011-08-19T07:00:00.000-06:00

Coming up with a new sketch challenge for Stampin' Addicts isn't always easy. After posting 106 of them, sometimes it seems like there are no new sketches in the world. But I look for inspiration constantly. Sometimes it comes from a Stampin' Up publication. Sometimes from the idea boards at convention or a swap I received.

And sometimes, like this week, it comes from me just sitting at my desk stamping and putting pieces together until something clicks. That's what happened this week. I wanted to make a card that featured the Strength & Hope Campaign set. Each time this stamp set is purchased, Stampin' Up! Donates $2 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. It's a beautiful set and it's only available through the end of August. This is what I came up with:

Colors: Soft Suede, Pool Party, Pear Pizazz. Stamps: Strength and Hope. Punches: 1" Square Punch. Accessories: Mini Brads, Paper Piercer, Mat Pack.

It seemed a little too basic for a sketch challenge at first. But then I thought, what if I included the flourishes as part of the challenge, but not necessarily as flourishes. So I made another card based on the same layout:

Colors: Calypso Coral, Lucky Limeade. Stamps: Best of Everything. Punch: Decorative Label. Accessories: Lucky Limeade Ruffled Ribbon & Designer Printed Brad, Filigree Designer Brad, Paper Piercer and Mat Pack.

Can you see the same sketch in both cards? One of the things I love about a sketch challenge is that you can substitute slightly different shapes to give cards a whole new look. In this one, I used the Decorative Label Punch to "bracket" the main piece where the flourishes were in the first card.

The next step to posting the challenge is to sketch it out in My Digital Studio. This is the actual sketch that was posted for yesterday's challenge on Stampin' Addicts:

I'd love to see what you come up for this sketch. Head on over to Stampin' Addicts and play along. And if you see a card or create one yourself that would make a great sketch challenge, please send the idea my way.

Inlaid Embossing Techinque

2011-08-17T07:00:00.001-06:00

I'm not entirely sure who discovered this fun technique or even when it first became hot. The technique involves adhering shapes to the background and then running it through the Big Shot with an embossing folder. I have most frequently seen this done with the Square Lattice Folder and flowers and it never really inspired me.

Then I was looking through a friend's swaps at convention and came across an inlaid embossed card that would have knocked my socks off if I had been wearing them at the time. I don't know who to credit because I did not write down who created it. But I knew I had to create my own version of it and this is it:

Colors: Island Indigo, Pool Party, Basic Black, Whisper White. Stamps: Easy Events and Happiest Birthday Wishes Hostess Set. Big Shot: Lattice Embossing Folder, #2 Circle Die. Punches: 1/2", 3/4", 1", 1-1/4" and 1-3/4" Circles, 2-3/8" Scallop Circle. Accessories: Markers, Aqua Painter, Dazzling Details, Crystal Effects, Basic Black Scallop Dot Ribbon.

I copied the colors and using the circle punches to create the background but I used different images and embellishments. First of all, I love these colors together. Second of all, I love the way the circles looked embossed into the background. So thanks to whoever it was that created the card. (And if you recognize it, please post in the comment section so I can give proper credit).

For the cupcake, I used my markers to color along the lines. Then I took the Aqua Painter water colored over it. Then I added Dazzling Details to the frosting and Crystal Effects to the cake plate.

But this was the same day I was in the juice. So when I finished that card, I had another idea:

Colors: Lucky Limeade, Basic Black and Whisper White. Stamps: Happiest Birthday Wishes Hostess Set. Big Shot: Square Lattice Embossing Folder. Punches: Itty Bitty Shape Pack, 1/2", 3/4" 1" & 1-1/4" Circles. Accessories: Basic Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Markers, Designer Printed Brads

Love Limeade with Black and White too! If you look really, really close, you might notice that the embossing is opposite on both my cards. I get asked all the time which side of the lattice embossing folder is the top. The catalog shows that the "+" should be pressed into the card stock making a lattice mark on top. But for inlaid embossing, I think the opposite way looks better.

One of these cards will be featured at my September Card Buffet. Vote for you favorite in the comment section below so I can decide which one.

Still in love with My Digital Studio

2011-08-16T07:00:00.004-06:00

I can't believe I haven't posted a My Digital Studio creation this month. I originally envisioned sharing at least one project plus a tip or two a week, but I've had so many hand stamped projects to share I haven't had a chance. So I'm squeezing one in on a random Tuesday.


Created in My Digital Studio. Colors: Soft Suede, Pear Pizazz, Pool Party, Very Vanilla. Stamps: Kindred Spirits, Baroque Motifs. Punches: Scallop Square, Modern Label, Square. Accessories: Grosgrain Knot, Antique Brads.

This is my mom (right) with her two sisters at my house last March. My mom and the middle sister both live in California and the youngest sister lives here in Utah. It was very unusual for them all to be here together at the same time so a picture was definitely in order.

Now for the My Digital Studio tip: Included with My Digital Studio is a Square Scallop punch. You can resize all the punches any size without distorting it. But when you enlarge the scallop punch, the scallops get bigger too. Like this:

This would have been just fine, but it just wasn't what I wanted for this project. I wanted my scallops smaller and tighter together. So I took eight square scallop punches and lined them up three across and three down to make a square frame. I didn't worry about the middle because it was the bottom mat for the pictures. Here I colored every other scalloped square Pool Party so you can get a better idea how it was put together (it's also easier to line them up if they aren't the same color):

And here is what it looked like when they are all the same color before I added the picture on top:

I wanted some dimension so I grouped them together and added the drop shadow to the whole thing. Almost all the seams (and the hole in the middle) disappeared when I put the Pool Party mat over it.

There was one seam that you could see (only because of the drop shadow) so I put the modern label punch over it to hide it. Easy Peesy.

Would you like to see more MDS tips here on my blog? Let me know by leaving a comment below.

Holiday Mini Sneak Peeks: Spice Cake Product Suite

2011-08-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

Really not trying to rush us through the last month of summer, but I love Fall! I love that first crisp morning and pumpkins and falling leaves and I could go on all day.

And this year, Stampin' Up's fall suite in the Holiday Mini is adding to my excitement for the season. It's called Spice Cake and it is just as yummy as it sounds. Featuring the most beautiful Designer Series Paper ever, a beautiful leaf stamp set as well as fabric and buttons, it is just perfect for Fall or anytime really. And if digital crafting is more you speed, the paper will be available as a digital download too. Here is your sneak peek:


Colors: Soft Suede, More Mustard, and Very Vanilla. Stamps: Gently Falling and Fabulous Phrases. Punches: Small Oval and 2-1/2" Circle. Accessories: Spice Cake Designer Series Paper, Soft Suede Taffeta Ribbon, Log Cabin Smooch Spritz.

Remember last week, I promised one more card based on the sketch challenge? Here it is. Last week I was on a big Soft Suede kick. Especially when I discovered how cool the Log Cabin Smooch Spritz looks on it. You can't tell from the picture, but it gives it just a hint of coppery shimmer. The Gently Falling set is designed for two-step stamping. Six outline stamps are complimented by six "filler" stamps in all of the common leaf shapes plus an acorn and a maple seed pod. I have a thing for leaf stamps, and I adore this one.

Colors: Pool Party, Soft Suede, More Mustard, River Rock. Big Shot: Scallop Square Duo, Alphabet Simple Letters. Punch: 2-3/8" Scallop Circle. Accessories: Spice Cake Designer Series Paper, Fabric and Buttons, 1/8" Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon.

I love to create banners, but I hate to take pictures of them. They never look as good in the picture as they do in real life. So you'll have to use your imagination a bit. This also features the Spice Cake Designer Series Paper as well as the matching fabric and buttons. I made this to hang in the entry way to my house, but it has already been requested as a buffet project for September.


Colors: Pool Party, Soft Suede, Very Vanilla. Stamps: Delightful Dozen. Punches: Postage Stamp and 1" Square Punch. Accessories: Spice Cake Designer Series Paper, Very Vanilla Seam Binding.

I mentioned before that this paper was really good for anytime and here's the card that proves it. Anyone who knows me, knows that I love paisleys. And when I saw this paper I just wanted to hoard it and pet it and call it George. But I made myself cut into it. (I can order another package of paper after all.) I thought it was pretty enough that it didn't need too much so I kept it very simple. But did you notice the 1" square punch? Finally we have one and it layers perfectly with the postage stamp punch too.

The Spice Cake Product suite will be available to order starting September 1 when the Holiday Mini begins. I know you will love it as much as I do.

A Dizzy Turtle

2011-08-12T07:00:00.003-06:00

After I made my crayon-resist card the other day, I still needed a sketch challenge for the week. Or did I? Actually, my crayon-resist card became the Sketch Challenge for this week on Stampin' Addicts. And by coincidence, it also met the requirements for this week's Accessories and More Challenge (use the new Pennant Die).

I could have stopped right there and called it good. But I was in the juice on Wednesday. So I made not one, but two more cards based on the sketch. You only get to see one today, but the other one will appear with some sneak peeks next week.

Colors: Wild Wasabi, Peach Parfait, Daffodil Delight, Baja Breeze. Stamps: Turtle & Co. Big Shot: Polka Dot Embossing Folder, Perfect Pennants Die, Circle #2 Die. Punch: Word Window. Accessories: Daffodil Delight 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Many Marvelous Markers, Crystal Effects, Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper.

"Hope you're back on your feet again soon!" Get it? I made this for a dear friend who is undergoing chemo right now.

And since I was still in the juice, as soon as I made this card, a big bright light bulb went off. That turtle needs to spin so it can land on it's feet again. I happen to really, really, really love spinner cards and this turtle needed to be on one for sure!

Colors: Wild Wasabi, Peach Parfait, Daffodil Delight, Baja Breeze. Stamps: Turtle & Co. and Confetti. Big Shot: Circle #2 Die. Punch: Word Window, Modern Label, 2-3/8" Scallop. Accessories: Many Marvelous Markers, Crystal Effects, Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper, paper piercer, mini brads.

You know you want to see it move. Right? I can play with these cards for hours.

(That's the very first video I've ever made and uploaded all by myself. I can't believe it worked!)

I love this turtle. He's this year's Making a Difference set called Turtle & Co. When you purchase this set, Stampin' Up! donates $3 to the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Such a great cause! And he makes perfect get well and other cards for the young and not-so young men in your lives (and he has cute little friends too - a snail and frog).

And besides the challenges over on Stampin' Addicts, these cards also fit the theme of the monthly contest over on soshelli.com. So they are my entries for this month. Cross your fingers for me.

Fabulous Creative Elements

2011-08-10T07:00:00.002-06:00

I set out the other day to make a list of the top 10 things in the new Idea Book and Catalog. The problem was, I couldn't stop at 10. So much to love in this one.

But one of my favorite stamp sets from the new catalog is Creative Elements. You know how you can tell I think it's fabulous? I've made two cards with it in the last week and both times I reached for the "fabulous" stamp to compete the card. I didn't even realize it until I went to take pictures of them both last night.

I mentioned one perk of being a demonstrator yesterday. Another one is Convention. This card is a CASE of a card presented by Stampin' Up Founder and CEO Shelli Gardner and her daughter Shalae Brown on the main stage at Convention last month. I think it was my favorite of all the projects presented on stage during Convention and I knew I had to try it at home.

This card features all kinds of techniques. First, emboss resist: I stamped the flourishes in VersaMark and used clear embossing powder then I stamped and sponged over it and rubbed away the excess ink over the embossing. Then I ran the whole thing through the Big Shot with the embossing folder and lightly sponged Razzleberry mostly just on the bumps. Then I spritzed it with a combination of shimmer paint and alcohol to give it some shine. It was a little work, but worth the effort.

This set really lends itself well to techniques. This time, I wanted to plan a project for my Technique Hostess Club called Crayon Resist. I stamped the glossy white card stock with StazOn black ink. Then I stole, I mean borrowed, a white crayon from my kid's crayon box, and colored in all the places I wanted to stay white. Then I sponged Pool Party Ink all over that piece. Last, I rubbed away the crayon. I think this was one of the very first techniques I ever did at one of the first Stampin' Up Workshops I went to, way back before I ever intended to become a stamper. It's an oldie, but a goody. Love how elegant it looks with this technique.

Colors: Wisteria Wonder, Concord Crush and Whisper White. Stamps: Creative Elements. Punches: Decorative Label and Lace Ribbon Border. Accessories: Rhinestones

And last, but not least, is a card from my customer appreciation event. No techniques on this one, but some new things to point out. Concord Crush is one of the carry-over In Colors from last year. I hardly ever used it because I just had a hard time pairing it with anything other than white or vanilla. But I love it with Wisteria Wonder. It's like they were made for each other. I especially love Wisteria Wonder Card Stock stamped with Concord Crush ink.

The other new thing I love on this card is the Lace Ribbon Border. It's one very large punch. But it is so beautiful. Look at all the detail in it. It really adds to a card.

Now tell me Creative Elements is not one of YOUR favorites from the new catalog. If you want it for yourself, click on over to my online store and order it. The set of 8 stamps in wood mount (item 122645) is $32.95 and in clear mount (item 122647) is $24.95.

Ellen on Glitter

2011-08-09T20:44:00.000-06:00

Someone asked so I have to share. Here is Ellen on Glitter:

Holiday Mini Sneak Peeks: Fun and Festive

2011-08-08T10:55:00.002-06:00

The Holiday Mini doesn't start until September 1. But one of the perks of being a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator is the opportunity to pre-order new items and get to play with them a whole month before everyone else. (And that's just one of the many perks).

My order arrived last week and I promised to provide some sneak peeks. I'm hoping to do this once a week for the rest of the month. This week's sneak peek is the Fun and Festive set. The set features three stamps, one for each upcoming holiday: Halloween, Christmas and Valentines. I knew when I saw it, I'd have to have it.

Colors: Pumpkin Pie, Lucky Limeade, Perfect Plum, Daffodil Delight, Whisper White and Basic Black. Stamps: Fun and Festive. Tools: Many Marvelous Markers, and Small Oval Punch. Accessories: Basic Black 1/2" Scallop Dot Ribbon, Dazzling Details, and Crystal Effects. Tutorial for Pull-Up Candy Bar Holder from splitcoaststampers.com.

If you love sparkle, but hate glitter (don't forget what Ellen DeGeneres says about glitter), you will love the other new product featured on this project: Dazzling Details - an iridescent glitter glue. All the bling with none of the mess. After I colored the image, I added a layer just over the colored areas to give it lots of sparkle (I know it's a little hard to tell from the picture).

And isn't this Candy Bar Holder a great Halloween treat? This may be a project for my Spooktacular Buffet in October. If you are a class regular or want to be, let me know and I'll add it to the lineup.


Colors: Garden Green, Cherry Cobbler and Whisper White. Stamps: Festive and Fun. Tools: Spritzer and Marker. Accessories: Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper, Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding Ribbon, Garden Green Button, and Crystal Effects.

The Christmas image says, "Have a Holly Jolly Christmas." Tell me that song is not running through your head right now! This time, instead of sparkle, I wanted shine so I just put a layer of Crystal Effects over just where I colored. That is one of my favorite techniques, but sometimes I have a little trouble being patient enough for it to dry.

Colors: Cherry Cobbler, Regal Rose, Very Vanilla, Pink Pirouette, Pretty in Pink. Stamps: Fun and Festive. Big Shot: Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder. Tools: Markers, Paper Piercer and Mat Pack. Accessories: Dazzling Details, brads.

I know, Valentines is still six months away. Seems a little silly to be showing you a card this early. But I love this stamp. It's so cute. I also used it in a swap I am doing so I'll have another card using this same stamp set to show you in a few weeks. Again, I just added just a touch of Dazzling Details to this one too.

I've been so drawn to these line art images lately. I know some of my customers HATE to color images. But I have always found it a bit therapeutic to color. It takes me back to my childhood days of coloring books and crayons. I used to beg my mom to buy me markers and the thicker-paged books. Simpler times. Now I have my very own set of markers and can stamp all the images I want to color anytime I want. Heaven, I tell you!

Stampin' Addict Sketch Challenge 104 & Color Challenge 108

2011-08-05T07:30:00.004-06:00

I have A LOT of nicknames. In my younger years I was also Paula Koala, PJ, and PaulaJo. And because Californians tend to shorten everything (rad, bromance, vaca, Cali to name just a few famous terms) I was even just Jo for awhile. Now I'm mostly just Mom, Paula, Pahlua (because I misstamped my name once and it stuck) or my online name, scrapshappen.

But I have another name not very many people know about: Challenge Master. When Stampin' Addicts first got started I took on coordinating the Challenges. We have six every week: Monday's 3D challenge (with awesome video tutorials), Tuesday's Techniques, Wednesday's Accessories and More, Thursday's Sketch, Friday's Colors and Saturday's Scrapbooking. If you are ever in need of some inspiration, be sure to check it out: www.stampinaddicts.com.

I've mentioned before that I host the Sketch Challenge and then a group of very talented stampers do the rest. This week's challenge came straight off of page 104 of the Idea Book and Catalog. (Coincidentally, it is also Sketch Challenge 104). One of the things I love about our catalog is it really has some great inspiration for creating at home -- substituting other stamps and colors for those shown.

So here is the card I made based on the sketch for this week:


Colors: Early Espresso, Melon Mambo, Pumpkin Pie and So Saffron. Stamps: Daring Adventure. Accessories: Brads, Markers, Spritzing Tool.

I love the saying on this stamp set. It makes me want to be brave and go climb a mountain or something. But after I made this card, I had an idea for another one:


Colors: Island Indigo, Calypso Coral, Pool Party, Lucky Limeade. Stamps: Delightful Dozen. Accessories: Designer Printed Brads, 3/8" Ruffled Ribbon.

Notice how the cards have the same sketch but the one on the bottom is flipped up so it looks completely different. It was a happy accident actually. But I was very pleased with the way it turned out. (Sorry the Pool party ink didn't show up well in the picture, it looks much better IRL).

And because our usual color challenge hostess Crissy is vacationing with her family, I repurposed this card to be the color challenge this week too. That's color challenge 108 if you'd like to play along too. Have I mentioned how much I LOVE the new colors? I have? Oh, sorry. Use them and you will too. I promise.

So head on over to Stampin' Addicts and check it out! You won't be sorry.

Nobody Faint!

2011-08-03T07:30:00.007-06:00

I know. Shocking. Two times in one week. We might even make it three if I'm lucky.

Seems like every year at this time, I start thinking about my kids going back to school. And I start thinking about all the free time I'm going to have once they are safely occupied at their institutions of lower learning. And then I start making plans and goals as to how to spend that free time. And every year I say I'm going to spend some of it here, on my blog. And every year the shiny squirrels with their disco balls interfere.

Well friends, this is the year. My youngest son is starting FIRST GRADE!!!! No more stopping the stampin' mojo at 11:30 to feed the boy and get him to school on time. Soon I will have blissful quiet all day long and can stamp and blog to my hearts content! Can you hear the party music playing? So this time, I really, really, really mean it. At least until the next shiny squirrel appears.

Lest you think I'm totally heartless. I am sad that my kids are growing up. It happens in the blink of an eye. But I am totally psyched to have them both in full day school now too. Can they just stay 6 and 8 forever?

Now on to the project you came to see:


Colors: Crumb Cake, Pretty in Pink, Very Vanilla and Chocolate Chip. Stamps: Pennant Parade and Happiest Birthday Wishes. Punches: Cupcake and Petite Pennants Builder Punches. Accessories: Scalloped Dot Chocolate Chip ribbon, Red Glitter Paper. Big Shot: Perfect Polka Dots Impressions Folder.

You might recall that last year's Summer mini featured a really cute ice cream set. Several of my customers were disappointed that it didn't carry over to the big catalog. Now we have something even better: PUNCHES THAT MAKE ICE CREAM CONES!!!! It's like a gift from the stampin' gods.

To make your very own ice cream cone cards or scrapbook page, you will need the Cupcake Builder Punch (carried over from the Occasions Mini Catalog) and the brand new Petite Pennants Builder Punch. The Pennant Parade stamp set is a nice addition too because it gives you that waffle cone look. (Watch for more ideas using this set and punch coming soon).

And check out that new 1/2" Scalloped Dot Ribbon. It has a grosgrain finish to it, but it is extra soft and easy to tie. It comes in 10 different colors too. Almost as yummy as ice cream cones.

A New Look. A New Month. And a New Resolve!

2011-08-01T20:52:00.003-06:00

I spent the better part of today playing with My Digital Studio to create this fun background and header for my blog. Have I mentioned lately how much I love My Digital Studio? I was really afraid it would be difficult, but it turned out to be a lot easier than I expected. It helps that blogger has vastly improved it's user interface too.

The fun kit that I used is the Noteworthy Digital Content CD, exclusively available as a hostess item. It has 12 different Designer Series Papers, 25 embellishments and 36 stamp images. If you want a copy for yourself, ask me about how to earn it for free. It features my favorite of the 2011-2013 In Colors: Pool Party, (But I reserve the right to change my mind about the favorite thing. Really I love them all!) as well as Cherry Cobbler, So Saffron and Early Espresso.

And since it's the beginning of a new month, of course there is Stampin' Up! news as well. During the month of August, Stampin' Up is offering lots of customers' favorite promotions: buy three packages of Designer Series Paper and receive a fourth package free! I don't remember them having this promotion so close to the start of a catalog before -- but I love that! I ordered mine today. Don't wait to get yours! For more information, click on the button on the right for the promotion. Or click the Shop Now button on the top right.

And finally, a new resolve. Seems like this blog has become an after thought to me. I only post when I have classes to share. I have a list of excuses for that, but I know you don't really care about that part. So I am resolving today to make this blog a bigger priority. I won't promise to post every day or even a certain amount of days each week. But I will post several times a month. (How is that for vague?)

I'll kick it off today with last week's Sketch Challenge over on Stampin' Addicts:

Supplies: Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper; Wild Wasabi, Poppy Parade, Whisper White and Baja Breeze Card Stock; Swirls and Curls Verses (from the Summer Mini Catalog); Boho Blossoms Punch and Itty Bitty Shape Punches; Mini Brads

You probably know that I host the sketch challenge over there but like so many other things this summer, it has also fallen through the cracks some weeks. But I'm promising to be better about that too. You can check them out and play along here: Stampin' Addict Sketch Challenge Forum. This particular sketch is number 103. It's a great way to use some of that Designer Series Paper that is on special this month. :)

Other quick tidbits of news: I placed my Holiday Mini Catalog preorder this morning so hopefully I'll have some sneak peeks for you soon. And I've added a new member to my team! Welcome Sarah Crow! She took advantage of the $99 starter kit special this weekend. I'm so excited for her!

So let me know what you think of the new design and let me know what types of things you would like to see posted here!

New 2011-2012 Idea Book and Catalog

2011-07-07T09:05:00.000-06:00

I've been a bit MIA lately. But now that my family reunion is over, I'm ready to get back to business!

The brand new 2011-2012 Idea Book and Catalog is out and as always, it is full of fantastic new products. There is truly something for every taste and style in this one. Not only that, the book itself is absolutely GORGEOUS!!! It is just packed with fabulous samples that you will look at it over and over and refer to it frequently when you are stamping for ideas.

HOSTESS BENEFITS

With the new catalog, Stampin' Up! has changed its hostess benefit program. And there has never been a better time to host your own workshop! Instead of different levels of stamp sets, they are offering hostess dollars that can be spent on exclusive discounted hostess products or on anything from the catalog. And starting with a $400 workshop, you can earn 50% off full-priced items. (Just this week, I got a Big Shot for 50% off using hostess benefits.) See the above chart for more information.

During July, you can join the Stampin' Up! family as a demonstrator for only $99! This limited time Starter Kit—valued at $185—comes with the following:

Easy Events Clear-Mount Set*
Pennant Parade Wood-Mount Set*
Basic Black Classic Stampin' Pad
Old Olive Classic Stampin' Pad
Pumpkin Pie Classic Stampin' Pad
Real Red Classic Stampin' Pad
Brights 8-1/2" x 11" Assorted Card Stock
Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper*
Chocolate Chip 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon*
Note Cards (20)
Clear-Mount Block C
Blender Pen (1)
SNAIL Adhesive
Business supplies

(*Brand new item from the 2011-2012 Idea Book and Catalog)

Plus, join in July and get a FREE Christmas Keepsake project kit—a $40 value! Imagine an afternoon spent chatting with friends while creating something beautiful—isn't that what Stampin' Up! is all about? But act now because this special kit is only available as part of this limited-time offer.

To find out more about any of these things, contact me today.

Crop 'til You Drop!

2011-05-02T09:58:00.001-06:00

In honor of National Scrapbook Month, I will be hosting an all day crop!!!! Come spend the day with your friends scrapbooking, cardmaking, or working on whatever craft you would like to bring.

WHEN: Saturday, May 21 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

WHERE: My house in Farmington

COST: $12.50 for the entire day includes snacks, lunch and dinner, your choice of Goody Bags* and access to my stamps, Big Shot and dies and tools. Can't come for the entire day? You can also choose 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. or 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. for only $8. (Includes only one meal). I will also have loads of samples to inspire you on display and retired product for sale. And there will be Doorprizes too. It really is a great value!

MY DIGITAL STUDIO CUSTOMERS: If you purchase My Digital Studio from me before the class (or if you've purchased it from me in the past), you will receive $5 off the cost of the full day crop or $2 off the half day. I will be teaching My Digital Studio mini classes throughout the day and I can help you with the software if you are bringing a laptop to digiscrap.

*GOODY BAGS: You will have your choice of three different Goody Bags. Please let me know which one you would prefer when you RSVP for the class:

Scrapper's Goody Bag: 12x12 paper and embellishments perfect for scrapbooking.
Cardmaker's Goody Bag: precut card bases and embellishments for card making.
Virtual Goody Bag: choose your own MDS downloads worth up to $5 (I will purchase them for you that day) - you must bring a laptop with you if you would like this option.

RSVP: Space is limited for this event so get your RSVP in soon. I want to make sure everyone has enough space to work. Please let me know which goody bag you would like and whether you are coming for a full day or half day so I can have everything ready for you that day.

I'm looking forward to spending the day crafting with you! Did I mention yummy food and door prizes? You won't want to miss this!!

Spring Fling Buffet

2011-04-17T15:30:00.001-06:00

April showers are bringing lots of flowers, at least of the crafty variety. Come spend the day creating some fun Spring projects with your friends.

WHEN: Saturday, April 30 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

WHERE: My house in Farmington

WHAT: Make only the projects you want and multiples of the ones you love.

RSVP: Let me know your project order by Wednesday, April 27 so I can have them cut and ready for you. Some projects are limited on supplies and will be available to those that RSVP first.

EXTRA SPECIAL PROJECT AND OFFER: Instead of offering special incentives and discounts, this month, I am supporting one of my favorite causes and you can help! This card is made with a new stamp set called "Strength and Hope," that benefits breast cancer research. The cost of this card is $2, but I will donate $1 from each card made to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation.

In addition, order this stamp set or anything in any shade of pink from April 28 - May 3, including at the class, I will donate my instant income to the Komen foundation. Contact me for a complete list of products that qualify.

OTHER PROJECTS

MINI ALBUM: Instead of a scrapbook layout this month, I am doing a CD Folder Mini Album instead. The Album is approximately 5x5 inches and is made from thin chipboard CD/Literature holders. It has six full pages, three mini pages and three pull out pages. Pictured is the Love Letters Paper. There is also an option for the Springtime Vintage Paper (paper patterns shown.) Cost: $10.

MONOGRAMMED NOTE CARDS AND MATCHING BOX: Perfect for Mother's Day or for an end of the year gift for your child's teacher. There are eight cards and envelopes and a matching pen that fit in the box. Choice of Beyond the Garden Paper (left) and Paisley Petals Paper (right). Cost: $12

TREAT PURSE: Aren't these just the cutest things ever? My friend Vicky made me one recently and I have to share them with you. They are approximately 3.5" wide by 2.5" tall. Perfect to fill with some candy or other small gift. Cost: $1.50 or 3 for $4

WATERING CAN: Also ready to fill with candy or other treats is this adorable watering can. You will use a wheel to stamp it and then cut it out and score it. (Much easier than the witch's shoe, don't worry.) Cost: $2 or 3 for $5.

DAISY MAGNETS: These fun magnets will brighten up your fridge or magnet board for Spring and Summer. Shown are Melon Mambo/Pumpkin Pie and White/So Saffron cardstock. If there is another color combo you would like, just ask. Cost: $1.00 Each

PLANE AND SIMPLE CARD: With Father's Day around the corner, I thought I should offer a couple of masculine cards. This one also has a Happy Birthday or Thank You option. Cost: $1.75 or any 10 cards for $15.

THE OPEN SEAS CARD: A nice masculine card. This one says Happy Father's Day, but there is also an option for Happy Birthday, Happy Retirement, and Thank You. Cost: $1.75 or any 10 cards for $15.

FLORAL MOTHER'S DAY: This card reminds me of my grandmother. She was an artist and this stamp set reminds me of something she would paint. This card is colored with blender pens and then a layer of Crystal Effects is added to the top of each flower (so it take a bit of time to dry). Cost: $1.75 or any 10 cards for $15.

VINTAGE MOTHER'S DAY: Not all moms like pink and purple. In fact, this card is more like something my mom would like. Cost: $1.75 or any 10 cards for $15.

WINDOWPANE CARD: These windowpanes are a fun embellishment. The greeting on this card can be Happy Mother's Day, Happy Birthday, Thank You, With Sympathy and others. Cost: $1.75 or any 10 cards for $15.

BABY WATERFALL CARD. These cards look a little tricky, but they are easy to make and fun to share. Pull on the tab and the pictures cascade. I always love a fun interactive card. :) Cost: $1.75 or 10 for $15.

WEDDING CARD: A simple card for a beautiful occasion. It is super easy to make two of these at once (as you can see from the picture.) Cost: $1.75 each or any 10 cards for $15.

GRADUATION CARD: I borrowed the idea for this card from another demonstrator, Yapha Mason. Love how simple it is and how perfect for the graduate. Cost: $1.75 or any 10 cards for $15.

HELLO FLOWER CARD: How about a simple Hello! There is also a Thank You Kindly option for this card. Cost: $1.75 or any 10 cards for $15

THANK YOU PAISLEYS: I just love the saying on this card, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life out of what we give." I thought it would be a perfect thank you card for a special teacher in your child's life or for anyone who has touched your life. Cost: $1.75 or any 10 cards for $15.
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What are you waiting for, RSVP today! Voice or text: 801-557-3439 or email to paulastamps@gmail.com

Birthday Bash Stampin' Buffet!!

2011-02-27T14:46:00.002-07:00

If you are like me, you always need birthday cards - always - lots of them. :) So this month's buffet is all about celebrating those we love most on their birthday. And it wouldn't be a Birthday Bash without a little cake right? Yum. I can taste it already!

WHEN: Saturday, March 12 from 11-4. Come and go as you need to.

WHERE: My House in Farmington - Let me know if you need directions.

WHAT: See the projects below. Make only what you like and more than one of what you love.

RSVP: By Wednesday, March 9 with your project order to paulastamps@gmail.com or voice/text to 801-557-3439 so I can have your projects cut and ready to go for you that day.

SPECIAL OFFERS FOR THIS CLASS:

Early Birds: The first eight people to RSVP with their project order will receive a special prize.
Bring a friend who is new to my stamping classes (or if you are new yourself) and you both get something special (different from the early birds).
Place a Sale-A-Bration-qualifying order ($50 from the catalogs) between March 1 and the class (including at the class) and receive 50% off your project fees.

PROJECTS:

My friend Vicky Kahlandt made me one of these cute calendars as a gift last month. I loved the idea so much that I had to share it with you! Each page features a different month with lines to record your friends' and family members' birthdays and other special days. Cost $6.

Doing things a little different this month -- just a one page scrapbook layout. It's still 12x12 though. Cost: $3.00.

Give a gift with style. Gift bag comes with a tag. Cost: $2.50

Have a little something to give? This box is the perfect size to fill with candy or jewelry or another small treasure. Cost: $2 each or 3 for $5.

This gift tag is sure to brighten up any package. Cost $1 each or 4 for $3.

CARDS - All cards are $1.75 each or mix and match any 10 for $15. Includes envelopes unless otherwise stated.

Create-A-Cupcake Card. Featuring the stamp set and punch from the Occasions Mini Catalog.

Airplane Card - perfect for the boy or man in your life. Thanks to Vicky Kahlandt for the idea for this card.

Wish someone Bliss on her Birthday. Featuring a stamp set only available free during Sale-A-Bration

Cute Cakes - Lots of coloring on this one, but it turns out so yummy!

Ice Cream Cone Pocket Card - This one uses the Petal Cone Die from the mini catalog to make a yummy looking card. Thanks to HollyLogic over on Stampin' Addicts for this fabulous idea!

Owl be sending birthday wishes! Featuring Punch Bunch and the Ice Cream Parlor Kit from the Sale-A-Bration Catalog. Special shout out to Stacy McCain for inspiring this card - it's also Sketch Challenge 83 over on Stampin' Addicts.

Paris is calling! Who wouldn't want to spend their birthday there? How about a card to tie you over till you can.

Celebrate Cupcakes! Features the square punches. This was also a featured Sketch Challenge at Stampin' Addicts.

Spinner Card. Featuring the new stamp set and spinners from the latest mini catalog. Thanks Lisa Dallas for the inspiration for this card.

The top of this cute card opens up and it has a pocket for a gift card. No envelope for this one. This was the Fun Folds technique at Stampin' Addicts this week. So cute!

What are you waiting for? RSVP right now while you are thinking about it. After all, you don't want to miss the cake. :)

Happy Birthday, Stampin' Addicts!!!!

2011-02-23T10:46:00.002-07:00

Two years ago, my good friend Angie and her husband James (or Head Smarty Pants as we like to call him) had an idea and asked thirty of their closest friends to come a long for the ride. Their idea has blossomed into the best place for Stampin' Up! fans on the internet: Stampin' Addicts. I'm proud to have been there in the beginning and I'm thankful for James and Angie's vision of "All Stampin' Up! All the time!"

If you are looking for ideas, challenges, virtual stamping nights and other people who are passionate about Stampin' Up! Be sure to stop by for a visit.

And here's a little something I made to celebrate! Happy Birthday Stampin' Addicts!

Want to make this card too? This is just one of the cards that will be featured at my Birthday Bash Stampin' Buffet on March 12. Here's a look at a few more:

Watch for more details posted by the end of the week!