Girls Just Want to Stamp!

My 1st Time Using the Faux Metal Technique

2012-01-20T19:59:00.000-08:00

Supplies: Silver Embossing Powder on VersaMark Ink; Chipboard Tag; Stamp, "Mixed Bunch" by SU and "Tiny Tags" by SU; Ribbon, Everyday Enchantment Calypso Coral and Twine; Paper, "Everyday Enchantment" in Sale-a-Bration; Brad, SU Sale-a-Bration; Heating Gun

I'm doing a demo tomorrow on the Faux Metal Technique. And this is my 1st time doing it!!! Could be a little...um...interesting. lol The secret was to stamp the image while the embossing powder is still hot. Also heat it a little longer than usual so it's extra hot. For my tag, I used 4 layers of silver embossing powder. Hope that helps. Have a good weekend, everybody!

Valentines Card using Loving Impressions Paper

2012-01-20T19:50:00.000-08:00

Supplies: Stamp Set, "Loving Thoughts" by SU; Paper, Crumb Cake, Real Red, Loving Impressions DSP, Red Glitter Paper, White; Ink, Black; Ribbon, SU Organza; White Uni-ball Pen; Embosslits, "Fashionable Hearts"; Postage Stamp Punch by SU

I made 9 of these cards tonight (and yesterday) for the card swap I'm attending tomorrow. Our assignment was to use the layout on page 20 from Stampin Success Magazine. You can use any paper you have in your stash, it doesn't have to be Valentine Paper. I hope you enjoy my card.

Bird Punch Christmas Tag

2011-12-06T21:14:00.000-08:00

Supplies: Stamp: Tiny Tags; Paper: Cherry Cobbler, DSP Mocha Morning, Fabric Deck the Halls; Other: SU Button, SU Ribbon, Black ink, Bird Punch, Stickles on wing, 1/4 circle punch, Bigz Die Two Tags, Cookie Cutter

Here is a Christmas Tag I recently made. I wanted it to have an elegant look, so I stuck to red, black, and cream. The cookie cutter is attached because we had a $1 gift exchange at Jeri's house the other night. We were not supposed to spend over $1. I was in Michael's and saw these cookie cutters for $1. I hope you enjoy my project.

Loads of Love Christmas Card

2011-12-01T15:12:00.000-08:00

Supplies: Stamp Set - Loads of Love; Paper - Confetti White and Cherry Cobbler; Ink - Always Artichoke; Other - Cherry Cobbler Bakers Twine, Jingle Bell, Dimensionals

Easy Peasy Christmas Card - but I love it! This is a CAS! I CAS'd this card from artfeltimpressions.blogspot.com (Deb's blog). I love her blog! I just had to make this card - super simple yet great graphic design. Thanks, Deb for the layout and design idea. I made 8 of these today. 5 go to a SWAP...(getting ready to leave for this Christmas SWAP in a minute) and I get to keep 3 to add to my growing Christmas Card Stash. I've made about 25 cards - only 50 to go *yikes*!!!

Favor Box - Poodle

2011-11-25T17:01:00.000-08:00

front

back

Supplies: Stamp Sets - Recollections, Woof Woof and Stampendous, Simply the Best; Paper - Not sure who made the DSP, Early Espresso, White; Ink: Copic Markers on Poodle, Black Memento, Tim Holtz Brushed Corduroy; Other: Fancy Favor Treat Box Bigz Die, Designer Label Punch, EK Success Paw Print Border Punch; Sticky Strip Tape, Dimensionals

I made 3 of these gift boxes for the ladies who saved my dog. A few weeks ago, my dog was playing at a doggy play place, and his stomach filled up with air and twisted. This is the #2 killer of dogs, and is usually fatal. They rushed him to the vet, and then that vet rushed him to the emergency vet for surgery. Thankfully, he survived. We are thankful beyond words! They call him the miracle dog, since he survived. Tomorrow, I'm taking 2 of the treat boxes to the ladies at the doggy play place. I'm filling them with Belgium chocolate and a Target Gift Card. I hope they know how much I appreciate them!

Forest Festivities Christmas Card

2011-11-25T11:22:00.000-08:00

Supplies: Stamp Set - Forest Festivities; Paper - Cherry Cobbler, Lucky Limeade, White, Early Espresso, Watercolor Paper; Ink - Early Espresso, Black Stazon and Watercolor Pencils; Other - White Bakers Twine, Dimensionals, Bigz Die - Perfect Pennants, Snow Burst Textured Embossing Foler

I created this card for a Christmas Card Swap. I loved the card in the Stampin Up Holiday Mini Catalog on page 27. This is a variation of that card. As you can see the layout and the background is different, but the idea is somewhat the same. I inked up the textured embossing folder with Early Espresso Ink before running it through the Big Shot. I used Watercolor Pencils to color the little fox and then trimmed him out. I threaded the twine through the holes in the Pennant Die Cut. I hope you enjoy this little Christmas Card.

Penny Black Christmas Card Class

2011-11-25T11:07:00.000-08:00

I took a Penny Black Christmas Card Class at our local card shop, Ink Paper Rubber. I love this little store! This was my 1st class at Ink Paper Rubber. I will definitely be going back for many more classes. It is a small store, but they have lots of unique and beautiful stamps. And their classes are great too, as you can see. These cards were designed by Penny Black. I just colored and assembled the cards during the class. Some of them were pretty detailed, so I think I was there about 2 or 3 hours. I loved the Poinsettia stamp so much, that I bought it. I haven't made any cards with it yet - hopefully I will make some next week.

Halloween Door Card - Out on a Limb

2011-11-25T11:01:00.000-08:00

Supplies: Stamp Set - Out on a Limb and Piece of Poison; Ink - Pumpkin Pie, Early Espresso; Paper - Cajun Craze, White, Early Espresso, Crumb Cake; Other - 5/16 Brad, Early Espresso Ribbon, Bakers Twine, Bone Folder used to score lines, Dimensionals, Silver Brad

Here was the card I made for the Halloween Swap. I made it a couple months ago and am now getting around to posting my card. This is a CAS, meaning I copied the design AND colors from Heidi Baks! I loved her card and wanted to make one. I hope you enjoy it, too.

Swap Cards - Halloween and Autumn

2011-11-25T10:42:00.000-08:00

I always try to include photos of the Swaps I participate in. Swaps is a way of trading cards with other friends who make handmade cards. This one is from a couple months ago...all Halloween or Autumn Cards. Again, these cards were not made by me - they were sent to me from friends, but I thought you'd enjoy a peek!

Language of Friendship Winter Card

2011-11-20T22:27:00.000-08:00

Supplies: Stamps: Language of Friendship (Stampin Up), Paper: Cherry Cobbler, Shimmer White, Lucky Limeade Ink: Black Stazon, Black Stampin Write Marker Other: Baker's Twine, Lattice Bigz Die, Glue, Dimensionals

I made 8 of these cards today. They are for our next Card Swap, and our assignment was Winter Cards. I had a very tough time thinking of a Winter theme, as I didn't have very many Winter stamps that were not Christmas themed. For my paper, I used green and red, because I believe you can enjoy the color combination all year long. Enjoy!

Simple Scaredy Cat Card

2011-08-20T23:36:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Stamp Set "Scaredy Cat" by SU, DSP SU "Pick Your Poison", Crystal Effects, Pumpkin Pie and Black Cardstock, Designer Label Punch, 2 1/2" Circle Punch, Dimensionals, Black Ink

Very, very simple card tonight. Just wasn't in the mood to make something difficult! You can make one of these super fast! I love these retro-inspired stamp designs. I stamped the image, and punched it out using the circle punch. I punched out some black paper with the designer label punch, cut it in half, and put one half on the left side and the other on the right. Hope you enjoy this card.

Proud Momma

2011-08-15T14:04:00.000-07:00

I'm a proud Momma today! My son got his very 1st instrument! He goes back to school on Thursday, and will be in strings. I'm thrilled that he will be learning the violin! Maybe he can teach me someday.

Timeless Treasures Card

2011-08-14T23:17:00.000-07:00

Supplies: "Timeless Treasures" Stamp Set by SU, "Elizabeth" Stamp Set by SU, White Cardstock, Crumb Cake Seam Binding by SU, Crumb Cake Ink, Soft Suede Ink, Dimensionals

I adore this simple, yet elegant card. I love white on white, and I love antiques. Even though this isn't monochromatic, it is somewhat close. This is a CASE from Ilina Crouse (Ilina Creations). Her blog is in my Favie Top 5! Love her. I hope you like this card, as well.

Lil' Inker Designs - Red Rainbow Card

2011-08-14T22:57:00.000-07:00

Supplies: "Rainbows and Clouds" stamp set by Lil' Inker Designs (the set includes the stamps and the die cuts for the clouds and rainbows), Black Ink, SU DSP (retired), Black Cardstock, White Cardstock, Making Memories DSP (paper for the clouds), Ribbon (can't remember where I purchased this...probably Archivers), SU Black Journal Pen (to create hand-made doodle border), glue pen, adhesive, Big Shot

I love this stamp set / die cut combo!!! I often have buyer's remorse after I purchase a stamp set. OK, not often. But sometimes. I know that won't happen with this set! It's so adorable! And I love whimsical stuff - so this is right up my alley.

Oh, this card is a total CASE. I CASED this card from Judith Rozema (the card was on the Lil' Inker blog). I just had to make some up. I'm making 4 or 5 of these for my dear friend. She asked if I'd send her a batch of Thank You Cards - everyone needs to have Thank You Cards on hand. I hope you enjoyed my latest creation.

Free Archivers Card - Life is Good

2011-08-14T22:11:00.000-07:00

I went in to Archivers this Friday to make this free card. I think they are doing 1 free card each week this month. Check it out! This is a mini card. I especially loved the free envelope! We made the envelope with the score board - couldn't believe how easy it was! I need to start makin some envelopes! The house on the card was made by painting the teal paint onto the rubber stamp. I learned that the stamp needs to be very well covered with paint. As you can see - mine wasn't too great. But it is still kinda cute. If you want product information on this card, please visit the Archivers web site.

Halloween Owl Punch Card

2011-08-13T22:52:00.000-07:00

Supplies: SU Owl Punch, SU Bird Punch (for the branch), SU Stamp Set "Wicked Cool", 1 3/4 circle punch, Daffodil Delight cardstock, Black cardstock, white cardstock, Black Ink, Silver Smooch Spritz, Glue Pen, Dimensionals, Adhesive, Google Eyes, Frightful Sight DSP by SU

I am really proud of this card! I had the idea for the black owl for some time, but couldn't decide what type of card or layout to put it on. I liked it on this paper, but felt it needed something else. I didn't want to put ribbon with it, for fear of giving it a feminine look. Then, I came up with the idea for the white diamond with the sentiment and really liked it. Then I decided the Smooch Spritz would help it blend in a little. I hope you all like it, too!

Scaredy Cat Halloween Treat Bag

2011-08-13T22:43:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Cello Bag (Hobby Lobby), Gum Balls (candy store), Stamp Set "Scaredy Cat" by SU, Pumpkin Pie cardstock, Frightful Sight DSP, Versamark Ink, White embossing powder, staples, 1 dimensional

This is the easiest project EVER! Look how easy it is! Just 1 stamp and a little bit of paper! The embossing was the only thing that took some time - and once you do that a few times, it goes pretty fast. It only took a few minutes. I think the children will like these little treat bags. Enjoy!

Pumpkin Card with a Country Look

2011-08-11T13:03:00.000-07:00

Supplies: SU Stamp Set "Jack of all Trades" and SU Stamp Set "You're a Gem", Pumpkin Pie Cardstock, Ivory Naturals Cardstock, Wild Wasabi Cardstock, Wood-grain Background Stamp, Wild Wasabi Ink, Early Espresso Ink, Early Espresso Cardstock, Pumpkin Pie Ink, Houndstooth Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Twine, Wild Wasabi Ribbon (cut into a thin strip), Adhesive, Dimensionals

This is not my typical Halloween Card! I usually go for whimsy. But, I thought it would be nice to have a couple cards on hand with a "country look". This card is lovely in person - there are many, many textures to this one! I didn't have any skinny wasabi ribbon, so I cut my wasabi ribbon in to thin strips. I love it this way! It started to fray and I loved the texture! I also love twine and the natural texture it adds to projects.

The pumpkin is made by stamping pumpkin ink on pumpkin paper. The green strip is made by stamping wasabi ink (woodgrain stamp) on wasabi paper. For the pumpkin stem.............I actually didn't use the stem in the stamp set. I needed something bigger to tie the ribbon on to - so I cut a handmade stem out of early espresso paper. I hope you enjoy this card!

Mini Scallop Squares Card - Wicked Cool

2011-08-11T12:50:00.000-07:00

Supplies: SU Stamp Set "Wicked Cool", Black Cardstock, SU DSP "Frightful Sight", Cherry Cobbler Cardstock, White Cardstock, Black Ink, Cherry Cobbler Ink, SU Rhinestone, Adhesive, Dimensionals, Bigz Die "Scallop Squares Duo", Big Shot

This is a mini card made using the Bigz Die "Scallop Squares Duo". I cut 3 squares out. 1 is the back, 1 is the front, and 1 I folded in half and used as the binder in the middle. I don't know if I did it right! I probably should watch a tutorial on this sometime to see if there is a better way. But hey, it looks cute! I love the rhinestone in the middle of the web - it adds so much.

These little cards are fun to place in your children's school lunches or backpack! Enjoy!

Halloween Lollipop

2011-08-11T12:42:00.000-07:00

Supplies: SU Stamp Set "Jack of all Trades", Giant Lollipop, SU Black Ribbon, Glue Dots, Whisper White Cardstock, Black Ink, Delightful Daffodil Ink, Pumpkin Pie Ink, Water Mister, Crystal Effects (the eyes and mouth), Glue Pen, Versamark Ink, Black Embossing Powder (the hat)

My son and I went to Cracker Barrel the other night. We saw this giant lollipop in the store out front, and I thought it would be fun to embellish for Halloween. I made this for my friend's open house - I hope she likes it! I wrapped the lollipop stem with black ribbon and adhered it with little glue dots. I inked up my pumpkin stamp with Daffodil Ink, but then rocked the edges in the Pumpkin Pie Ink. Then I misted it with a bit of water before stamping it onto the paper. Enjoy!

Free Archivers Card - Little Bird Quilling

2011-08-10T19:06:00.000-07:00

I went in to Archivers this Monday and made this mini card. This was a FREE project! For the time being, I believe they are letting their customers make 1 free card each week. I'm not sure how long this promotion will last, but I'm loving it! This was my first time quilling. I really enjoy it, but didn't buy the kit. I just have to many cards and ideas that I already need to make. But, it is really cute! Archivers designed the layout for this mini card. If you would like product information, please visit the Archivers web site.

Thanks for Being a Friend - Fab Flourets

2011-07-12T09:52:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Pumpkin Pie and Whisper White cardstock, Beyond Garden DSP, Pumpkin Pie ink and Black ink, 3/8 Pumpkin Pie Ribbon, Stick-on Pearls, Flower Garden Embossing Folder, Stamp Set Happy Greetings by Stampin Up, Stamp Set Fabulous Flourets by Stampin Up, 1 3/4" Circle Punch, Big Scallop Punch, Eyelet Border Punch, Adhesive, Dimensionals

This is a case of Gretchen Barron's card. I love her blog! I always refer to her blog when I need inspiration! I copied it to the T, except I tied a simple knot, instead of a bow, and only because I'm not the greatest at tying bows.

I hope you are enjoying your summer and are finding a way to stay cool. It's extremely hot here in Kansas. My stampin room is the hottest room in the house! That coupled with never having any free time in the summer makes it very difficult for me to find time to make cards. Sad! I really miss my hobby! I hope I can get back to creating very soon.

Hero Arts Silhouette Flower in Yellow

2011-03-29T21:24:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Stamp by Hero Arts "Silhouette Flower" and Northwoods "Happy Mother's Day", Cardstock is Neenah White and SU Daffodil Delight, Ink is VersaMark with SU White embossing powder, Ribbon by American Crafts Premium, Button is Basicgrey, embroidery floss, glue dot, adhesive, Hero Arts clear Gems, Liquid Pearls in White Opal

Here is a quick card I made tonight. I went to Archiver's yesterday and bought this new Hero Arts stamp. I thought it would look cute in yellow, since the flowers were daisy-like. There is no coloring - so this card is easy. Just stamp the image in versamark and white embossing powder. I put liquid pearls in the center of each flower to add a little dimension. I need to think of other uses for this stamp. I haven't had time to search other blogs to see how other people have used this. I may try watercolor next time. I hope everyone out there enjoys the last two days of March!

Jeri's Make and Takes (Dec, Jan, and Feb)

2011-03-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

These are the cards I made at Jeri's Make and Takes. December, January, and February are shown. I missed the March one - darn it! She prepared and designed (or cased) all these cards for us - and all we had to do was put them together! I love Make and Takes! Her blog is http://coloringourworld.blogspot.com

Eat Chocolate in Rose Red and Baja Blue

2011-03-24T15:11:00.000-07:00

Here is the card I made for my March swaps. The girls will get them soon. Sorry they are so late! I was sick 2 weeks ago, and then I went on a Spring Break vaca - so I'm very behind! The card looks a little different in person. In person, it is a muted rose pink and muted blue. I know the photo looks very reddish - but it isn't. This cosmo glitter is so pretty in person, too!!! I hope the girls enjoy their cards.

This is a case from Margaret Raburn. I saw her candy cover on Fun Stampin with Margaret (the name of her blog) and I loved it and just had to make one - only I turned mine into a card instead of a candy wrapper. I also added some dark brown, and glitter to the button.

Supplies: Eat Chocolate and Bliss (background) Stamp Set (Stampin Up), Early Espresso, Crumb Cake Cardstock, Rose Red and Early Espresso Ink, Rose Red Cosmo Glitter (SU), Baja Blue Ribbon (SU), linen thread, Embosslits Sweet Buttons, Decorative Label Punch, Glue Dot, Crystal Effects (to adhere glitter), adhesive

February Swap

2011-03-24T14:38:00.000-07:00

The above cards are from the February card swap I belong to. I didn't make any of the cards, but thought I'd show them off. Aren't they gorgeous? In case you don't know what a swap is, I made 6 cards, and then traded them for these 6 cards. I should be getting the March swap cards soon - when I do, I'll take photos of those as well. I am not sure who made which card. I'm sure the black one is Jeri's and I think the one with thread is Tina's. Other than that...I just don't know! Enjoy the cards!

Ruffled Ribbon Border

2011-03-23T15:40:00.000-07:00

OK, sorry for posting 4 videos recently - but I just love all of them, so wanted to share.

Tissue Paper Flowers and Pop Can Flowers

2011-03-23T15:33:00.000-07:00

Oh my fabby - this is cool!

How to Make Twisted Flowers - A Hero Arts Video

2011-03-21T17:50:00.000-07:00

Another video I thought you'd enjoy!

How to Make a Rosette - Archiver's Video

2011-03-21T14:43:00.000-07:00

Thought this was good and wanted to share this video!

The Handwriting Game

2011-03-05T16:07:00.000-08:00

All you have to do is take out a pen and paper, answer the following questions and post it to your blog.

Here are the questions:
1. What’s your name / blogger name?
2. What’s your blogs URL?
3. Write, “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog”.
4. Favorite quote?
5. Your favorite song?
6. Your favorite band / singers?
7. Anything else you want to say?
8. Tag 3 bloggers to participate.

I tag: http://coloringourworld.blogspot.com

http://corgi-reations.blogspot.com

http://mycraftroom.blogspot.com

This was fun and quick.
Try it, even if I didn't tag you! I love seeing other people's handwriting!

Post a link in the comments, so I can see!

Valentine's Candy Bar Wrapper

2011-02-14T23:32:00.000-08:00

Supplies: MFT Stamps and die-namic (My Favorite Things), Martha Stewart Holidays DSP, SU! Naturals Ivory CS, SU! Real Red ink, heart and key locket from Oriental Trading Company, sticky tape, hole punch, ribbon (not sure), chocolate bar

I bought this chocolate bar for my chocolate lover this Valentine's Day (bottom photo). I made a handmade wrapper for this bar, and the result is pictured in the top photo. My husband loves dark chocolate, and he heard about a local (sorta) guy that makes artisan chocolate. We are going to visit his chocolate store, soon - but found this bar in the meantime at Whole Foods. I was pleased to see they carry his chocolate. He also has a website. It is www.askinosie.com
Hope my hubby likes this little gift! Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!

Poem to my Son on Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T16:02:00.000-08:00

Did you know that you

you are

Everything

Not a possession

but priceless

Dark at times

but always my light

Not faultless

but altogether perfect

Not just everything I’ve ever dreamed of

but more than I could have imagined

Continually more

~written by Sherrie Reusch

I love you, Eli! Happy Valentine's Day!

Banana Bread Pudding

2011-02-12T23:31:00.000-08:00

I made this Banana Bread Pudding today, and it was very yummy. It is difficult to find recipes that my son will enjoy - he is extremely picky. But, since he loves bread, bananas, and pudding, I had to try this. He loved it, and ate two giant servings. Here is the recipe:

Banana Bread Pudding ~Country Living

8 tablespoon(s) (1 stick) butter
4 bananas, sliced 1/3 inch thick
6 tablespoon(s) light brown sugar
2/3 cup(s) milk
1 cup(s) heavy cream
2 eggs
1 egg yolk
1/3 cup(s) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon(s) granulated sugar
1/8 teaspoon(s) salt
1/2 teaspoon(s) fresh nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon(s) cinnamon
6 slice(s) firm white bread

Heat oven to 325 degrees F. Butter (using 1 tablespoon) a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate and one side of a 12-inch square of aluminum foil; set aside.
Cook bananas with 4 tablespoons butter in a medium skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons brown sugar and cook until sugar melts and coats bananas. Set aside.
Beat the milk, cream, eggs, yolk, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, and remaining 4 tablespoons brown sugar together. Brush bread with the remaining butter, cut each slice in half, and layer in the pie dish. Tuck bananas between the slices. Pour in the milk mixture. Press to absorb the liquid. Cover with foil, bake for 30 minutes, remove foil, sprinkle with the remaining tablespoon granulated sugar, and bake uncovered until golden brown, about 25 more minutes. Cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

My Swap Cards - Thoughts & Prayers

2011-02-10T22:37:00.000-08:00

Supplies: Stampin Up Thoughts & Prayers stamp set, Rich Razzleberry, Always Artichoke, and So Saffron cardstock, Rick Razzleberry ribbon, Always Artichoke ink, Stampin Up flower punch, jewels, dimensionals

I made 10 of these cards today! Shwew! Yes, it took several hours. I am not the fastest card maker in the world!!! The most time consuming part was punching out the flowers. My punch kept sticking, and it took a long time to get "good flowers". I hope the 8 participants enjoy my contribution to the swap. My packet will go in the mail in the morning. I can't wait to get my 8 cards to see what everyone else made!

Feel free to comment if you have questions, or if you want to leave some love!

Punch Potpourri Valentine Card

2011-02-10T22:30:00.000-08:00

I made this card over at Jeri's house Friday night. She designed the layout and we used the Stampin Up Punch Potpourri stamp set. The heart was embossed in black, and then I colored the flowers using Stampin Up markers. Enjoy!

Pedaling Past with Retro Background

2011-02-07T20:49:00.000-08:00

I designed the above card (top), and my inspiration was this vintage poster. I like the colors on the poster better, but I didn't have the exact match in my paper stash.
I used the Stampin Up Pedaling Past stamp set. I stamped on vanilla cardstock, using black ink. I framed in black paper. I used the corner punch on 2 of the corners. I colored the bike with the Tangerine Tango and Black Marker.
For the background paper I used the 1" Circle Punch on Tangerine Tango and Baja Breeze Paper. I cut each circle in half. I scored the ivory card so there would be 15 squares. I placed each circle in a square to resemble the vintage tile. I used dimensionals to adhere the bike image in the center of the card.
I hope you enjoy my vintage creation. If so, please leave me a comment!

Valentine's Candy Jar - Tart & Tangy

2011-01-28T15:47:00.000-08:00

Supplies: Jar from Crate & Barrel, Stampin Up Ribbon, Stampin Up Red and White Paper, Sentiment printed on home computer, Stampin Up Tart & Tangy Stamp Set, Circle Punch, Stampin Up Yoyo Yellow Ink and Glitter, Stampin Up Sparkle Brad, Quickutz Heart, Glue Dots, Lemon Candy

I made this little candy jar this afternoon. It is a Valentine for one of my friends - I hope she likes it! These cute little glass jars are from Crate & Barrel. I purchased this one at Christmas - hopefully they still carry them. This would have been cute if I would have inked the white banner around the edges in red, but didn't think of that until it was too late.

Enjoy - and please post a comment if you have a question or want to share some love!

Archiver's Vintage Valentine Card Workshop

2011-01-16T23:33:00.000-08:00

I took the Vintage Valentine Card Workshop at Archiver's this Wednesday. It was a great class! I always enjoy learning new techniques. The new techniques I learned in this class were: stamping on linen, torn images, and working with the McGill flower punch and tools.
If you are noticing tears in my card, no worries - they are supposed to be there! Remember, the cards are supposed to look vintage, worn, and antique.
The cards were designed by Archiver's. In class, we do the stamping, coloring, and assembling. The class took between 2 and 3 hours. The flower card took an hour - it was by far the most difficult card. Using the punches and tools is very time consuming, but it wouldn't be if you were doing this at home, because you wouldn't have to share the tools. I did change the ribbon design on the flower card and added my own little twist.
Enjoy, and please leave a comment if you have a question or wanna leave some love!

Class at Archiver's Very Valentine Mini Card Workshop (part 2)

2011-01-15T16:31:00.000-08:00

Here are the final 4 mini 3x3 cards we made at the Archiver's workshop yesterday. Archiver's designed the cards, and we stamped, colored, and assembled the cards. The handmade rose card took about an hour. At home, I think I could make one in 30 minutes, but we had 4 ladies that had to share the McGill flower punch and tools to make the flower. So, that added some time to the class. The other 3 cards were not as time consuming. I really enjoyed making the rose. It was tedious and time consuming, but not difficult. I haven't decided if I will invest in the McGill flower items for home. How many flowers like this would I make? :-) The card would be difficult to mail. If I do send through the mail, I will wrap it in foam, and place in a bubble envelope. I also love the 24-7 card. The tickets pull out of the little envelope - so cute!
Enjoy!

Class at Archiver's - Very Valentine Mini Card Workshop (part 1)

2011-01-14T23:30:00.000-08:00

I took a class at Archiver's today! The class was the Very Valentine Mini Card Workshop. It was wonderful! Out of all the classes I've taken at Archiver's, this is my fave so far. Not necessarily because of the content, but because our teacher was so patient and helpful. It makes a big difference. We made 9 mini 3x3 cards. I am showing 5 of the cards today, and I'll post the remaining 4 tomorrow (or soon). All cards were designed by Archiver's and I assembled and made the cards during class time. These little guys were pretty time consuming. We spent 4 hours making 9 mini cards (mostly due to a very detailed handmade flower you will see on my next post).
My favorite from this batch is the umbrella card. I think it's quirky and romantic - and love the white boots! I bought this stamp set, so I could make more at home. Unfortunately, they do not have any more of the heart paper. So I purchased some polka dot paper - hopefully it will look similar.
Enjoy!

Nutmeg Cake

2011-01-10T18:35:00.000-08:00

My Nutmeg Cake

While nutmeg adds a subtle note to many desserts, it claims center stage in this traditional spiced Armenian cake. We based this recipe on one in A World of Cake by Krystina Castella (Storey Publishing, 2010).
12 tbsp. unsalted butter, cubed, plus more for pan
3 cups flour, plus more for pan
4 1/2 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
2 cups packed light brown sugar
1 1/2 cups sour cream
1 cup milk
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

Heat oven to 350°. Butter and flour a 5" x 12" cake pan; set aside. In a food processor, combine flour, nutmeg, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt; pulse to combine. Add butter and pulse until pea-size crumbs form. Add brown sugar, sour cream, milk, and eggs; process until smooth. Add walnuts; stir in with a rubber spatula. Transfer batter to prepared pan; smooth top. Bake until a toothpick inserted into center of cake comes out clean, 45–50 minutes. Transfer to a rack; let cool. To serve, unmold cake, top with a cake stencil, and dust top with confectioners' sugar. Remove stencil; cut into squares to serve.

SERVES 8–10

This article was first published in Saveur in Issue #134

I made this cake for Christmas Eve, as I like to incorporate Eastern European recipes during the holidays. It was very good - everyone loved it. However, I used a normal-sized cake pan, and am very glad I did. I have to wonder if the 5 x 12 cake pan listed in the instructions is a typo.

Enjoy!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-27T11:17:00.000-08:00

My son at Bass Pro, sitting on Santa's lap. Asking for video games, Kung Zhu pets, a scooter, a phone, and a picture of Santa's elves (yes, he really wanted a picture of the elves!)

Merry Christmas to all my blog readers! {I'm a couple days late!} Hope everyone had a magical day!

QuicKutz Polar Bear Card

2010-12-21T12:46:00.000-08:00

Supplies: QuicKutz polar bear die, Sizzix snowflake die, red cs, black cs, white, cs, Doodlebug design dsp (red and white stripes), s*e*i WinterSong dsp (used on the snowflake), Tim Holtz tea dye, American Crafts ribbon, adhesive, glue pen.

I love this Polar Bear QuicKutz die! It is sooooo cute. And I have to giggle whenever I see polar bears, because my friend Jeri had to make about 100 polar bear cards one time, and by the time she was finished, she was...um...going a little crazy.
Also - I love Red and White............I think it is so crisp. Enjoy!

Holiday Happiness Card

2010-12-21T12:32:00.000-08:00

This is the card we made at Jeri's make-and-take Friday night. She had the cards planned and cut, and we just assembled! I love going to make-and-takes! We used the SU Holiday Happiness Stamp Set, Merry Details Sizzlets, and silver embossing powder. If you want to see her blog, click HERE.

Peace on Earth in Gold and Red {Jeri's Card}

2010-12-21T12:20:00.000-08:00

I didn't make this card, but just wanted to show it on my blog because it is so beautiful. Jeri made this card and gave it to me - and I just love it! Click HERE to see her blog.

Snowflake Card - Northern Frost

2010-12-19T22:19:00.000-08:00

Supplies: White linen, Blue Bazzil, Doodlebug Design glitter paper (snowflakes), Bazzil white prismatic (snow at bottom of card), Northern Frost Decorative Strip Die Cut (snowflakes), adhesive, dimensionals

A very simple winter card. I cut out supplies today so that school-age children can assemble 30 of these at their Holiday Party. I wanted to keep it simple for them. I think they will enjoy making the "snow" at the bottom of the card by tearing the paper to resemble snow. Other than that, all they have to do is glue the card front on to the base, and then adhere the snowflakes using dimensionals. They also have to pop out all the tiny little pieces in the snowflakes...although not entirely necessary if they don't want to. Wish us luck!

JellyPark Card {unfinished}

2010-12-19T22:09:00.000-08:00

Supplies: JellyPark Digi Stamp on etsy.com, Ocean Breeze Bazzil cardstock, white linen, DSP Snow Day by Crate Paper, American Crafts Ribbon, Glue Dots, adhesive

I hope you enjoy my digi card. The reason it isn't colored is because there are some little ones who want to color it in for me! So I snapped a photo before the coloring was complete. I found the digi stamp on etsy after doing a search for a New Year's stamp. Enjoy!

Banana Bread

2010-12-19T22:02:00.000-08:00

Here is the banana bread I made tonight. I try a new recipe almost every time I make banana bread. This version reminds me of Debbie Field's recipe, which I also like. It was very delicious - a keeper for sure. I've never had cinnamon in banana bread - it added a little warmth. The recipe is from the Joy of Baking website. Click here for recipe. Enjoy!

A Link from Somewhat Simple

2010-11-17T15:46:00.000-08:00

I usually don't link to other blogs, but this is the cutest idea. EVER! Enjoy!
Here is a photo from her blog and also click here to visit her blog (complete with directions).

Whimsie Doodles Digi Treat Boxes

2010-10-28T21:49:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Whimsie Doodles Digi Stamps "Halloween Minis", Copic Markers, Tangerine Tango, Pumpkin Pie, and White CS, Scallop Punch, Circle Punch, Crop-a-dile (to punch out the circles around the scallop), XL Decorative Label Punch, Fancy Favor Box Bigz Die, Silver Stickles, Orange Stickles, Glossy Accents, DSP My Mind's Eye, and DSP Recollections

The link for the digi stamps can be found here.

I am up at midnight putting together these treat boxes for the teachers tomorrow. I am chuckling to myself, because I am so tired that I forgot to color in the broom (see above photo)! Don't worry...I will color it in the morning...but for now I need to hit the hay!

The party favor boxes are really simple to put together. This die cut is a great investment. The digi stamps are cute - but they took FOREVER to color. They are so tiny and there is lots of detail. I added stickles and glossy accents to make parts of the image pop. Don't forget to give your project a day to dry. The glossy accents stays wet for hours.

I'm looking forward to the school Costume Parade tomorrow!

A Rocky Mountain Getaway

2010-10-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

We just returned from a short trip to Rocky Mountain National Park in Grand Lake, Colorado! We had a very relaxing getaway. I was geared up for lots of hiking and wildlife sightings, but unfortunately got very little on both counts. The temperature was in the low 30's, and it was very muddy, snowy, and wet. So, it didn't make for good hiking conditions. We did hike a little, but just not as much as we wanted. Eli spent most of the time playing in the snow and thought it was neat had a chance to preview the winter snow, before everyone else back home. We enjoyed watching him play in this winter wonderland. We were hoping to see moose and elk. We didn't see any moose, and we only saw about a dozen elk. And my photos of the elk didn't turn out great. Bummer! It was cloudy and overcast each day we were there, and I am not skilled at taking photos in those conditions. However, I am pleased with my photo of the hawk (above). I hope you enjoyed this little peak into our Colorado vacation!

Tim Holtz Scaredy Cat Card

2010-10-23T20:00:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Tim Holtz Bigz Die "Raven and Scaredy Cat", orange glossy card stock, black glitter card stock, Stampin Up Halloween Rub Ons, glue

Are you scared? Another graphic, yet easy card. I love this one, too! Tim Holtz creates fantastic images. And the Stampin Up rub ons are AWESOME this year.

First, I cut the cat out of black glitter card stock using my Tim Holtz die cut. Then, I adhered him to the glossy orange card base, using glossy accents as a glue. Then I adhered the rub on to the bottom, and another one to the right-hand side.

Tim Holtz Raven Card

2010-10-22T20:00:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Tim Holtz Bigz Die Cut "Raven and Scaredy Cat", orange shimmer card stock, black glitter card stock, Stampin Up Halloween Rub ons, glue

I love a simple, graphic card every now and then. And the best part? They are easy. Plus, I REALLY love ravens. Ravens and owls really make Halloween delightfully dreary.

First, I cut the raven from my Tim Holtz die cut using my glitter paper. Then I adhered him to the card base using glossy accents (it works as a glue, too). Then I applied the rub on.

Fall Card made from "Fall Set"

2010-10-21T20:00:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Sizzix Textured Impressions Embossing Folder "Fall Set", Core'dinations card stock, natural card stock, sanding block, Stickles (Scattered Straw, Orange Peel, Peeled Paint, Vintage Photo)

Another easy-as-pie card! These Impressions Embossing Folders really do all the work for you.

To create this card, just emboss and sand your core-dinations card stock (this type of card stock has a different color in the center, so when you sand it down, the core color shows through). Then adhere the image to your card base. Then "color" your image with Stickles glitter glue. Be sure and let the card dry overnight - it stays wet for hours.

Pumpkin Plaque Card

2010-10-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

Supplies: "Pumpkin Plaque" stamp by Stampendous, Copic Markers, Black Memento Ink, Tangerine Tango cs, DSP by My Mind's Eye "Boo to You", Trim by Taylored Expressions, white cs

I am surprised at how much I love this stamp! I bought it on clearance at Michael's, and thought it had some potential. But, when I started coloring the image, it really came to life. Lots of character!

First I colored the stamped image with Copics, and then I trimmed the image out and adhered it to a piece of Tangerine Tango. Then I trimmed around the image again, leaving about 1/8 or 1/16". I taped the trim by Taylored Expressions to the card base, and then applied the stamped image with dimensionals.

The My Mind's Eye DSP was FREE - hoot! Well, it was a gift with $50 purchase. :-) But I think the moons work so perfectly with this stamped image, it gives it a pumpkin-patch-at-night feel.

Chicken Chili

2010-10-19T20:00:00.000-07:00

The photo is mine, but no, I didn't create this recipe, but I thought I'd share a good recipe every now and then. Ya know, the ones I deem share-worthy! :-) This is from the Picky Palate website. Click here to go to the link. Enjoy!

Southwest Shredded Chicken 3 Bean Chili

4 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded

2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 large bell pepper, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

3 14 oz cans chicken broth

16 oz can black beans, drained

16 oz can red kidney beans, drained

16 oz can canelli beans, drained

15 oz can Muir Glen Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes

6 oz tomato paste

1 Tablespoon Tabasco hot sauce

1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice

2 heaping Tablespoons chili powder

1 heaping Tablespoon cumin

1 ¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper

1. Heat olive oil in a large dutch oven over medium heat. Saute onion and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and shredded chicken breast; cook for 1 minute then stir in chicken broth, beans, tomatoes, tomato paste, hot sauce, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper. Cook on medium heat for 5 minutes then reduce heat to low and simmer until ready to serve.

Easy Peasy Halloween Card

2010-10-18T20:00:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Bats and Owls Sizzix Texture Impressions Embossing Folders, Core'dinations card stock, SU Pear Pizazz, Martha Stewart Jewels (eyes), sanding block

Oh yeah, by far the easiest card I've ever made! Love it! I just ran the Core'dinations card stock through the embossing folder, and then sanded it down until the core color started to show through (you have to buy the Core'dinations card stock in order to get this effect). Then I attached it to the base card and attached the jewel eyes. So easy!

Halloween Spider Matchbox

2010-10-17T20:00:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Bigz XL Die Matchbox, SU XL Decorative Label Punch, Jeweled Halloween Spiders by Personalized by you (I found them at Archivers), acetate sheet (from Office Max), milky way bars, sticky tape, cardstock (not sure...I think I bought it at Michael's last year)

I hope you enjoy my little Halloween candy-bar box! I wanted to use the matchbox die and see if an acetate window would work with it. I think it looks nice. After I punched the label out of the top of the box, I taped some acetate to the back of the window using sticky tape. I then affixed the spider to the top of the box.

Retro Halloween Witch Card

2010-10-16T22:41:00.000-07:00

Supplies: Tim Holtz stamps "Retro Halloween", Pebbles Metallic Chalks, Stampin Up Halloween Rub Ons (Sentiment), Black Linen cs, White cs, Black Memento Ink, DSP Martha Stewart (last year's), Glossy Accents, Dimensionals

I love this stamp set! Tim Holtz makes the coolest retro images. And, I love my new Pebbles chalk. They are so creamy and easy to use. And I know the image doesn't do it justice, but the chalk has a very rich shimmer.

I stamped the image on white cardstock, colored with the chalk, trimmed the image very closely, then attached to card base using dimensionals. I applied the SU! rub on to the RH side of the card. After the card was assembled, I applied Glossy Accents to the witch's hair, eyes, and tooth. I wish I would have ordered another package of the rub ons! Love those, too. I am so happy I found this striped paper in my stash from last year, because it is very retro as well. I'm very happy with the result.

Fright Night Moon Card

2010-10-02T23:20:00.000-07:00

Midnight Raven Stamp Set by SU, Cast-a-Spell DSP by SU (retired), More Mustard, Black, and Bazzill Brown cardstock, SU Black Marker, Tiny Bubbles Cuttlebug Embossing Folder, Mesh Ribbon from Taylored Expressions, Pebbles Chalks, Ranger Distress Ink in Pumice Stone, Large Bat Punch by SU, Label Punch by SU, Smooch Spritz in Silver, Large Circle Punch, Black Floss, Glue Dots, Dimensionals

Happy World Cardmaking Day! Oops, I'm over an hour late! I tried sooooo hard to get this blog post in before midnight.

And, my goal was to make 30 Halloween Cards this year, starting with the 1st of October and ending with the 30th. I already missed the 1st, so the outcome is already looking frightful.

I hope you enjoy my first Halloween card of the season. Halloween is my favorite time to craft. I love Christmas, too - but I'm usually too busy during that time of year.

The 1st step of making this card is to punch the circle on the RH side, then adhere a mustard piece of cardstock behind your DSP. I used Pebble Chalk in dark silver to add a cloud effect on the moon. It doesn't really show up in the photo.

The 2nd step is to emboss a piece of black cardstock, and then punch out your bats. I sprayed them in silver Smooch Spritz and adhered them with glue dots.

The 3rd step is to stamp your sentiment and then punch out the label. I distressed the edges of the label and the card with Pumice Stone Distress Ink.

The 4th step is to gather the center of the mesh with a piece of floss, and tie with a knot. You could also use a brad.

The last step is to assemble your card. Enjoy!

60th Birthday Card

2010-10-01T00:15:00.000-07:00

Occasional Quotes Stamp Set by SU, Versa Magic Jumbo Java Ink, Milestones DSP by Reminisce, Bazzill Brown Medium, Bo Bunny Wild Berry Red Dot, Ivory Linen, Spellbinders Die, Martha Stewart Jewels, Mark Richards Jewels, SU Punch, Maya Road Velvet Point Blossom, Other Paper Flowers from Oriental Trading Co, Smooch Spritz in Gold

Here is a card I made for a friend who is turning 60 next Friday night. We are going to a crafty, card-making get-together that night, so I can hardly wait to give this to her. I hope she likes it!

After I completed this card, I felt it needed a little something. I just purchased the gold Smooch Spritz today..........so I decided to give it a go! Without a test run! I sprayed away, and I really love the result. It softened the look of the card, and also gave it a more uniform look.

Bigz Die, Embossing Folder, and Clear Stamp Set Storage

2010-09-30T22:00:00.000-07:00

I was in Target a couple days ago and saw these cute media boxes. I bought these two, intending to use them to organize my Nestability die cuts. But when I started playing in my craft room, I realized they were a perfect fit for my Bigz Dies, my embossing folders, and my Stampin Up clear stamp sets.
I know you can't tell from the neatly organized boxes, but I really DO hate organizing! I actually find it completely paralyzing. But, I always feel better after I do a bit...........even though "a bit" is usually in VERY small doses (unfortunately). One of these days I would love to be totally organized, but not sure if that will every actually happen.
These were the last two butterfly boxes our Target had, so tomorrow I'm road tripping to another Target in hopes of finding two more. Still need to store those other die cuts (Nesties and Quickutz).
Hope my little idea will inspire someone out there in blog land.

Halloween Gift Bag by Hero Arts

2010-09-29T16:37:00.000-07:00

Baked Shells with Pesto, Mozzarella, and Meat Sauce

2010-09-29T16:25:00.000-07:00

I made this dish last week. It is simple and easy to pull together on a school night. Plus, it is yummers. I used ground buffalo, instead of ground beef, and you couldn't tell. If anything, I like the buffalo better. Hope you enjoy this if you make it at home.

*From Food & Wine

Ingredients

1 tablespoon(s) cooking oil
1 onion, chopped
1 pound(s) ground beef
2 cup(s) canned chopped tomatoes, drained (from one 28-ounce can)
1 1/2 teaspoon(s) salt
1/2 cup(s) store-bought or homemade pesto
3/4 pound(s) medium pasta shells
6 ounce(s) mozzarella, grated (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/4 cup(s) grated Parmesan

Heat the oven to 400°F. Oil a large baking dish (about 9 by 13 inches).
In a large stainless-steel frying pan, heat the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until starting to soften, about 3 minutes. Stir in the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until the meat is no longer pink, about 2 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
Add the tomatoes and salt to the pan and bring to a simmer. Cook until most of the liquid evaporates, about 10 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the pesto.
Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the shells until just done, about 10 minutes. Drain and toss with the sauce. Put half of the pasta into the prepared baking dish and top with half the mozzarella and 2 tablespoons of the Parmesan. Repeat with the remaining pasta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Bake until bubbling, about 15 minutes.
Wine Recommendation: This robust dish with its meat and tomatoes calls for a gutsy red wine from Italy. A Chianti Classico Riserva's medium body, dried-cherry flavor, high acidity and moderate tannins will fill the bill perfectly.

Spiced Sweet-Potato Cake with Maple Brown Sugar Icing

2010-09-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

This blog post should probably be titled, "Sift your powdered sugar like your momma taught you!" For realz. As you can tell...I did NOT. I thought I could skip that step. I mean, really...who sifts their sugar? Apparently...everyone, lol. OK, I will next time. I hope you enjoy the recipe on this beautiful fall day.

*From November, 2000 Bon Appetit (but I made a couple adjustments)

Cake

4 8-ounce red-skinned sweet potatoes(yams)

Nonstick vegetable oil spray
2 3/4 cups all purpose flour
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
1/2 t allspice
1/2 t cloves
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Icing

1 cup powdered sugar
3/4 cup (packed) dark brown sugar
1/2 cup whipping cream
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon maple extract

Preparation

For cake:
Pierce sweet potatoes with fork. Microwave on high until very tender, about 8 minutes per side. Cool, peel and mash sweet potatoes.

Position rack in center of oven; preheat to 325°F. Spray 12-cup Bundt pan with nonstick spray, then generously butter pan. Sift flour, cinnamon, ginger, baking powder, baking soda and salt into medium bowl. Measure enough mashed sweet potatoes to equal 2 cups. Transfer to large bowl. Add sugar and oil to sweet potatoes; using electric mixer, beat until smooth. Add eggs 2 at a time, beating well after each addition. Add flour mixture; beat just until blended. Beat in vanilla. Transfer batter to prepared pan. Bake cake until tester inserted near center comes out clean, about 1 hour 5 minutes. Cool cake in pan on rack 15 minutes. Using small knife, cut around sides of pan and center tube to loosen cake. Turn out onto rack; cool completely.

For icing:
Sift powdered sugar into medium bowl. Stir brown sugar, whipping cream and butter in medium saucepan over medium-low heat until butter melts and sugar dissolves. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to boil. Boil 3 minutes, occasionally stirring and swirling pan. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Pour brown sugar mixture over powdered sugar. Whisk icing until smooth and lightened in color, about 1 minute. Cool icing until lukewarm and icing falls in heavy ribbon from spoon, whisking often, about 15 minutes. Spoon icing thickly over top of cake, allowing icing to drip down sides of cake. Let stand until icing is firm, at least 1 hour. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover with cake dome and let stand at room temperature.)

Eli's 3rd Grade Science Project

2010-09-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to show off Eli's 3rd Grade Science Project on my blog tonight. He was required to find at least 6 insects, label them, and put them on a nice display. He wrote three of the labels, and I helped with the rest. He has a hard time with hand writing, so I am allowed to help if he gets tired.
The insects are in a shadow box. I bought some Styrofoam and cut it down to size. We had to insert the foam upside down because there is glass on the other side of the shadow box, and it just wasn't quite deep enough. It would have squished the bugs if it was right side up. PLUS, it is 3rd grade, and it doesn't have to be perfect!
The Cicada Killer and the Praying Mantis were caught in our backyard. All others were caught in Fort Scott. Matt and Eli caught the insects. The scorpion is not an insect, but we thought it was cool, so we mounted it anyway.

Holidays Card Workshop by Hero Arts @ Archiver's

2010-09-15T23:30:00.000-07:00

Hero Arts Stamps: Hanging Christmas Ornaments, Joy to All, Merry Christmas Trees, Sending Holiday Cheer, Starry Night; Ink: Ranger Tinted Embossing Pad, VersaMagic Green Tea, VersaMagic Royal Blue; Embossing Powder: Ranger Bridal, Ranger Gold Detail, Ranger Lettuce, Ranger Roman Gold, Ranger Snowflake Tinsel, Ranger Silver Detail; Copic Markers; Paper: Bazzill Coconut Swirl, The Paper Company Shimmer Cardstock (Antique Gold, Arctic Gold, Arctic Snow, Bluebell, crimson, Kiwi); Stickles; Mark Richards dots and gems; Glossy Accents; AC Ribbon; QuicKutz dies; Corner Chomper (deco); Krylon gold and silver leafing pens

I took the Holidays Card Workshop (by Hero Arts) class at Archivers night before last. These 4 cards were designed by Archiver's. All I did was assemble, emboss, and color! It took 2 hours to make these cards. Most of the time was spent on the ornament card and the gingerbread house card...lots of coloring.

It was a great class!

A very cool thing I learned was embossing with two different embossing powders on one stamped image. I never thought to do that before. (Note the tree on the LH side of the tree card.) I poured "lettuce" embossing powder in the middle of the tree...shook the powder off...then poured Roman Gold embossing powder on the top and bottom of the tree. Very cool. The other thing I learned was outlining two of the cards with the Krylon pens. I probably won't use this trick at home. Can't decide. Yes, it looks elegant. Plus it is very easy to do (and dries super fast). But I'm a little concerned the look is too "hand-purchased stationary". I like things to look home-made, of course!

I think my favorite is the ornament card. I love white on white - plus I love the Glossy Accents!

Permanent Masking with Glossy Accents - a video by Hero Arts

2010-09-01T21:36:00.000-07:00

Teacher Card in Apple Green

2010-08-26T22:30:00.000-07:00

Core'dinations (green), white linen, black linen, apple stamp by Hampton Art, Studio G, "Best Teacher" by Imaginisce, Copic markers YG25, YG67, E50, E25, E13, black Memento ink, Quikutz Apple embossing folder, corner punch, sanding block, Ribbon by TPC Studio

I made this card tonight for Eli's teacher, and will place a "welcome back" note inside. I plan to make 3 or 4 duplicates, as to have them in my card stash when Teacher Appreciation Day rolls around.

I adore the happy colors in this card and love it when I get a chance to use green (my favorite color). I also love Core'dinations card stock and how when you emboss and sand, the core color isn't white...it is another color. It's been a while since I've used my Copic Markers, and it was very nice to have them out again for this project.

By the way...the stamps used for this card were only $1.99 (each)! The apple was in the "Hot Spot" bin at Archivers ($1.99 bins) and the sentiment stamp is either from Archivers or Michael's, and I'm pretty sure it was the same price.

Have a great weekend!

Hot Pink and Zebra Personalized Stationary / Invitations

2010-08-19T20:28:00.000-07:00

White Linen, Black Linen, Melon Mambo, Designer Paper by gcd studios (Cosette Collection), Black Jewels (Bazzill Blackbird), name printer off on printer, Fiskars Upper Crest border punch, Martha Stewart punch, SU Corner Punch, SU Black Ribbon, Adhesive

I created the card up top last night for my friend, Jessica. She is hosting a bachelorette party for her best friend, and needs to mail out some invitations. She found the below invitation on the internet - and loved it, because her friend loves zebra print (I do too!!!). I think she did a great job picking out an invitation - don't you? She wanted me to duplicate the look. I made the above card, and gave it to her this morning. She loved it! Jessica is going to make the invitations herself, but she is borrowing my punches, and my design. I printed out the measurements for her paper cuts - so she can assemble everything pretty quickly. I think she is going to put all the party information on the inside of the card, since the home-made version opens up (not just a postcard, like the one she found on the internet). This will also leave more room, in case she wants to add a sentence or two. I really enjoyed using my favorite hobby to help a friend in need! I was pleased she asked me for help.

My Swim with the Dolphins

2010-08-16T20:15:00.000-07:00

Here I am, getting a dolphin smoochie

I traveled to beautiful Riviera Maya, Mexico last week with my husband and son. We had such a wonderful vacation! We enjoyed many activities such as snorkeling, swimming in the ocean and pool, and also took in a couple day excursions. And most importantly, we were also able to relax and decompress. One of the best experiences I have ever had in any of my travels is swimming with the dolphins. I did it for the first time in 2002, and was lucky enough to do it again a few days ago (Friday the 13th). If you ever have the opportunity to swim with these fun and playful creatures, I highly recommend doing so. To me, they represent the aquatic version of playful little puppies - they are so sweet; only they are more peaceful and graceful. The only bad part of the experience, is that it went by too fast! We swam at a place called "Delphinus" and had an hour in the water. We wanted our son to join in and swim with our group, but he was too standoffish. Children don't realize how large dolphins are until they come close, and they really can be intimidating to a small child. I think he'll be ready in a couple years. I hope you enjoy our photos of our dolphin encounter. I will post more pics from Mexico in a day or two.Our group (they keep the groups very small, average 5 or 6 at a time with the dolphins)

Me doing the "dolphin push". (Two dolphins push your feet so you are pushed across the water.)

My husband getting a dolphin smoochie

Simple Friendship

2010-08-02T23:06:00.000-07:00

Supplies: SU "Simple Friendship" stamp, SU cardstock in Pumpkin Pie, So Saffron, Real Red, Pacific Point, and Whisper White, SU Markers, Black Ink, SU Organza Ribbon, Paper Piercer, White Gel Pen, Circle Punch, SU Eyelet Border Punch

I case'd this card from Dragana Skoro, with the exception of a couple minor changes. I added the ribbon, and didn't use a scallop punch, and didn't use celery (green). I think my blue was different too - many even my orange. But it basically looks the same. Her blog is here.

I thought this card was so festive when I saw it - I just had to make one!
I wondered what is was that captured my eye. Then, it hit me! It reminded me of this:
Memories of fun days in Mexico! Hope this brings a smile to your face today!

Starburst Card

2010-07-28T23:17:00.000-07:00

Hero Arts "Starburst" stamp, Hero Arts "Truly Appreciated" (sentiment), SU Whisper White cardstock, SU Markers (Always Artichoke, Tempting Turquoise, Real Red, Elegant Eggplant, Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black), Archival Ink in Jet Black, glue pen, SU Glitter, dimensionals, scissors, Martha Stewart sequin (center), Me and My Big Ideas sequins (small), Tattered Angels glimmer mist in Pearl

This is my shameless case of Brandi Wiggins' card that was featured on Splitcoast last week. As you can tell...I LOVED it!!! And, so did many, many others. I think her card got over 2,000 hits. Her blog is here.

Well, I had to change a couple things, because I didn't have the stamp set she used. I would love to own it, but it is retired. So, I used "Starburst" and "Truly Appreciated" by Hero Arts. Looks almost the same, don't ya think?

The border is hand-drawn / hand-doodled. The starburst image was colored in with SU markers, then lightly sprayed with glimmer mist before stamping onto the cardstock. The glimmer mist got all over the card, which made a beautiful effect. Wish you could see it in person...so glimmery! Enjoy!

Wedding Card using the Sizzix Swallow and Impressibilities

2010-07-27T22:37:00.000-07:00

Sizzix Sizzlets "Swallow", Spellbinders Impressibilites "Floral and Stone", Vellum, SU So Saffron paper, SU So Saffron Ink, Sponge, SU So Saffron Ribbon (retired ribbon originals), SU "Congrats" Stamp Set, Archival Ink in Jet Black, Black linen and Ivory linen paper, glue dots, adhesive, vellum tape, Big Shot machine, C3 Copic Marker

Tonight I made this wedding card for my dear cousin. I am a "little" late - her wedding was a month ago! This was my first time using the Spellbinders Impressibilities. You just use it like you would a stencil. You tape it down and sponge on top of the stencil, so you get a reverse image. I love the look. The look is more shabby and homemade looking than you would get from purchased designer paper (and I know there are times we don't want to achieve that look).
To make this card, cut your birds using vellum. Then color them with a Copic Marker, otherwise the birds to not show up on the paper. Stencil your image on the So Saffron paper using So Saffron ink and a sponge. Use vellum tape to tape down the birds. Use glue dots to adhere the ribbon, every inch or so (I just eyeballed it), and scrunch up the ribbon as you go along. Stamp sentiment on card using black ink. Enjoy!

BE YOU!

2010-07-20T00:42:00.000-07:00

"Be You" stamp by Studio G, American Crafts patterned paper, American Crafts ribbon, Janlynn floss, neutral button by The Paper Studio, Ranger Distress Crackle Paint painted on the flower (flower was cut out of a piece of patterned paper), SU Cameo Coral paper, SU Elegant Eggplant Ink, Archival Ink in Jet Black, white linen cardstock (base layer), glue dots, adhesive, dimensionals

I love owls. A lot. So, I just haaaaaad to buy this stamp set! :-) I tried to make the card as fun and funky as possible. And, I'm not a button girl, but I do use one every now and then (the middle of the flower needed something). You should really check out this stamp set if you like this card. It is at Michael's for only $2.49!

"Birthday Party" Pastel Card

2010-07-18T13:42:00.000-07:00

"Birthday Party" by TPC Studio stamp set, white linen paper, Bo Bunny designer paper, Bazzill paper flower, Martha Stewart pearl, Making Memories ribbon, "Embossed Curve" EK Success punch, oval nestability, Big Shot machine, Versamark ink, Zing embossing powder in Pink

I'm not ecstatic about this card. This stamp set is very whimsical, and the card is not. Well...I started off inking up the acrylic stamp with bright markers. I wanted to do each layer of the cake in a different bright color. Well, the ink wouldn't stick to the acrylic! It was then I realized I always use black ink on acrylic, and then color in with Copic markers or watercolor. But, since this stamp is block style...I couldn't do that. I really do like rubber stamps better...but I still buy acrylic if the image is cute. So, since my plan wasn't working, I decided to emboss. And this is the only embossing powder I had that was "birthday-ish". So, that is how this card came to be.

Memory Book - Mini Scrapbook

2010-04-27T11:26:00.001-07:00

This morning the Papercrafts Blog said it was "National Tell a Story Day". What a perfect day to share about our weekend! Day before yesterday, we traveled to Abilene, Kansas, to share in Mom and Dad's 50th Anniversary Celebration! What an accomplishment! Us kids (me and my brother and sister) have been VERY BUSY for about two months now...planning the event. The lunch and celebration was at the Brookville Hotel (restaurant), in Abilene. Before the lunch, we went to mom and dad's church service. After the lunch, we went to the park (with most of the relatives) and had lots of family photos taken. The photographer was great! I can't WAIT to see the photos.
During the lunch celebration, my brother shared a slide show in which we all contributed old family photos. It was a beautiful and touching presentation. Also, my Aunt Connie brought some memories to share. She brought some old photos, and some dishes that belonged to their Grandmother. It was so interesting to hear the stories behind the dishes. I think antique dishes DO tell a story. Don't you?
I made this Memory Book (mini scrapbook) (photos below) for mom and dad. I included several pages so that guests could sign the book. It was a BIG HIT at the celebration. Everyone signed the book, and several even wrote down favorite memories. And the funny thing was...I had just the right amount of space for journaling in this book. When mom and dad get their photos developed - they can glue a few of their favorite photos in this book, and viola - a mini scrapbook.
It was a wonderful day and a wonderful celebration. I was so happy to be a part of their day.

Supplies for Mini Scrapbook:
6 x 6 Blank Board Book "Create & Treasure" from C&T Publishing
Beacon's 3-in-1 Craft Glue
Prima Flower (smudged with Distress Ink)
Ink: Tim Holtz Distress Ink in Tea Dye (smudged on flower, sponged on ALL pages, and smudged on ALL edges and folds of board book)
Paper: The cover and a few pages are K and Company. A few other pages and stickers are Creative Imaginations. The ruled paper (for journaling) is We R Memory Keepers.
Other: Martha Stewart Rhinestones, Lace from Hong Kong (purchased on ebay)

Four Shabby Chic Cards (Archiver's Class)

2010-04-23T22:16:00.000-07:00

Here are the four cards I made during the Archiver's Shabby Chic Class last Friday morning. I can't believe this class was a week ago! It seems like yesterday. It is amazing how busy the weeks get in April and May. We are wrapping up the school year and the days just fly by.
I really enjoyed this class. It was such a popular class at Archiver's, they brought it back, due to popular demand. The cards really look better in person, and they are meant to be "shabby", and not perfect. A little messy is a good thing when you are doing this method.
This was the first time I've stamped with paint. There is no ink on these cards. Just Ranger Paint Dabbers (acrylic paint). It was a lot of fun, and it took some getting used to. I never got my card right the first time, and had to flip over and use the other side every time. And boy does it make a mess out of the acrylic stamps!
I also enjoyed using the shimmer paper - I think it looks great with the shabby look.
I really loved using the Hero Arts flowers. We applied the Ranger Rock Candy crackle paint and Distress Stickles on the flowers to make them stiff and shabby.
Another cool thing: we painted the brads (they were originally silver) with the Paint Dabber, let it dry, and then applied Distress Stickles. I will definitely use this little trick on a few other cards.
After the class, I did buy two of the Ranger Paint Dabbers, the Rock Candy, and the Hero Arts collage flowers, so I can try this at home.

Supplies
Cardstock: Antique Gold Shimmer, Arctic Gold Shimmer, Cream linen, Fudge, Lakeshore, Paprika, Royal Purple
Stamps: Hero Arts "Poppy", "Silhouette Vase", "Chandelier", "Truly Appreciated", "Silhouette Spray", "Silhouette Fern", "Huge Hugs", "Antique Engravings"
Ranger Paint Dabbers: Eggplant, Espresso, Gold, Juniper, Sandal
Embellys: Ranger Distress Stickles (Antique Bronze, Dusty Concord, Picket Fence, Spiced Marmalade), Hero Arts Gems, Hero Arts collage flowers, Making Memories 1/8 silver brads
Other: adhesive, glue dots

Fresh Mother's Day Card

2010-04-15T13:05:00.001-07:00

Here is the Mother's Day card we will be making at our Girl's Night Out tonight! It is very "fresh", so it is no coincidence that the name of this stamp set is Fresh (not the sentiment).
I love this stamp set! I love doodle-inspired designs. Sorta reminds me of Picasso. Don't ya think? Okay...maybe not. :S
Can't wait to give this card to mom!
Supplies:
Stamp Sets: "Fresh" by American Crafts and "On Mother's Day" by Hero Arts
Paper: White linen by Neenah and Bazzill Berry Sensation
Ribbon: Michael's - Offray
Bling: Flower by Bazzill (hot pink) and glitter dome by Mark Richard's
Ink: Memento Black
Punch: EK Success Open Scallop
Copic Markers: assortment
Other: dimensionals and adhesive

Beautiful Butterflies

2010-04-15T00:08:00.000-07:00

A fun and funky card using the Bigz Beautiful Butterflies Die Cut. This is change of pace...a card for someone who really enjoys a unique pink and green combo. I've always loved pink and green together. Fashion designers used a lot of pink and green together a few years ago (think J Crew, Kate Spade, and Isaac Mizrahi) - and this year they are using a lot of orange with hot pink. Love that, too! I have a card with those colors in mind, as well.
We will be making this at our make and take tonight (Girl's Night Out).

Supplies:
Cardstock: Bazzill Strawberry Splash and Intense Kiwi, SU Rose Red, and DSP by Basic Grey "Green at Heart"
Punch: EK Success "Daisy Chain"
Die Cut: SU Bigz Beautiful Butterflies
Big Shot Machine
Cuttlebug Folder: Swiss Dots
Ink: Momento Black
Pearls: Hobby Lobby
Stamp Set: Inkadinkado "Dot Flourishes" and Fiskars "Sweetest Friend"
Other: Dimensionals, adhesive, glue pen

50th Anniversary Wedding Invitations

2010-04-11T20:48:00.001-07:00

Sorry it's been so long since my last post. I've been working on mom and dad's 50th Wedding Anniversary Invitations! Many of them. Even though it is a simple design...the process was long. And, I'm not even finished making the others, but have made enough to stop and show a few on my blog. For those of you that know me, you know I have to shop around a LOT before I make up my mind about what I will create next. I found some paper at the first scrapbook store...gold and black...and my first prototype just didn't do it for me. Then I went to Archivers and spied this gold and ivory paper, and found this ribbon at Michael's. I thought about embossing "Save the Date" in gold...but was worried it would get lost in the mix. I wanted a very simple design, since I had so many to make. I really wanted a sentiment that said "Golden Anniversary" or "Please Join Us", but this is all I could find. I hope our relatives enjoy getting their home-made invitation.
Supplies:
Cardstock: Ivory linen by Neenah and gold/ivory designer paper from Archivers
Stamp Set: Stampendous "Wedding Words"
Ink: Momento Black
Bling: Metals by Mark Richards (@Michael's)
Ribbon: @Michael's
Other: Nestability frame, dimensionals, and adhesive

On another note...here is a photo of my son's very first baseball game of the season! It is fun to see baseball start up again (although not as fun as basketball...not that I'm biased or anything).
And here is a photo of Lukas getting caught in the act! We can't leave anything, and I mean anything, on the kitchen counter top! Even if it is a non-food item, he will knock it off and chew it up. He is such a little weasel. :-) I hope everyone had a lovely weekend!

Tip of the Day

2010-03-31T20:27:00.000-07:00

A Tip From Stamp TV - I thought everyone would enjoy! I knew it shocked me!
"Here's a quick tip: When scoring your card, always fold away from your score line. The score line is meant to stretch the fibers in the card stock so you can bend the card stock away from the dent you scored into your piece of card stock. (The mountain or raised line should be inside the card.)

Cling Shower Chick with Fun Flock

2010-03-25T08:29:00.001-07:00

It's a Stampendous Day! I had so much fun creating this card with a stamp and Fun Flock from Stampendous. This is the card we will be making TONIGHT at our Girl's Night Out! Whoot!
I hope this doesn't sound conceited - but I am really proud of this card. I think it is my favorite. I don't know if it is because Spring has finally sprung here in Kansas, and I really needed some bright colors, or if it is because...well...I just love it the way it turned out! The Fun Flock seemed intimidating to me. But, I went ahead and bought this product after seeing it in Archivers. Let me tell you...it was SO EASY. You just sprinkle it on after you wet the image with a glue pen. That's it.
I hope you enjoy my card.

Supplies
The sentiment was printed off my printer using a free Creating Keepsakes Font
Stamp: Stampendous Cling Shower Chick
Markers: Stampin Up Only Orange, Yoyo Yellow, and Lavender Lace
Fuzzy Stuff: Glue Pen with Stampendous Fun Flock
Brads: Recollections (Michael's)
Paper: Bazzill Rio De Janeiro, White Linen, and Pinecone Press Papers
Ink: Memento Black, and SU Only Orange lightly sponged around the edges
Ribbon: Celebrate It (Michaels)

How To Make a Border Using Nesties

2010-03-24T07:46:00.000-07:00

Easter Pail

2010-03-17T22:50:00.001-07:00

Here is a pail we will be making at our next Girl's Night Out.
I have other colors available, and our guests will get to choose from pink, green, blue, or purple (pictured).
The pail was purchased from Target in the $1 bin. Yes, the $1 bin! Why can't my other projects be so cheap? (Okay...the stamps, ribbons, rhinestones, and markers used in this project didn't make it so cheap...shhhh...)
The stamp sets are both Hero Arts and can both be purchased at Archivers, "Three Floral Frames" and "Easter Set".
I colored the image in with Copic Markers, YG25, YR04, Y11, and Y17. I used Memento Black ink for stamping on white linen paper.
I trimmed the image out with scissors.
I put 4 tiny rhinestones (Recollections from Michaels) in the center of the flowers.
The yellow ribbon is from Michaels. I hope they have more when I go back, or I'm in big trouble!
I hope you enjoy this little Easter Pail.

50s Theme Party Favors

2010-03-17T22:31:00.000-07:00

Here is a Stampendous Pail I altered for my mother-in-law's 50's Party. I am making 8 of them for her guests. It was REALLY hard to find 50's-type things in the "wold of scrapbooking". I started in the stamp category. Found almost nothing. I did find some cute Elvis stamps, but was worried that might not be what they were after. So.... then I searched for die cuts. I DID find some cute die cuts, but didn't purchase them. I found a jukebox, a poodle with some hoops, and a poodle skirt. But, The Scrapbook Page was out of the poodle die cut. They did have the poodle skirt and jukebox, but I just didn't know how to make it "pop" on an altered project. Sooooo...then what did I spy? This AWESOME paper by graphic45. Oh my goodness, how I love all the graphic45 paper. It is all so gorgeous.
The other supplies I used include the "sweetest friend" stamp by Fiskars, ribbon from Michaels (wired ribbon), other skinny ribbon from The Scrapbook Page, Martha Stewart rhinestones, Stampin Up brass brad, Stampin Up flower punch (I think this particular flower punch might be retired), Multi Tags punch by McGill, SU Circle Punch, and the Spellbinders Nestie Scalloped Circles.
I hope my mother-in-law's friends enjoy their little pails.

Copic Markers on Scrapbook Memories - Please Watch

2010-02-23T09:52:00.000-08:00

Archivers Free Make and Take Cards

2010-02-22T10:57:00.000-08:00

I made these early Friday afternoon at Archivers for free. It was their free make and take weekend. I don't have a list of supplies, as everything was already set out and we had to move through the line pretty quickly. Although, obviously all supplies can be purchased at Archivers. I will say the new core 'dinations cardstock is used on the pink and black card. I love this new cardstock. After you dry emboss the cardstock you sand the embossed image and another color shows through. We also used the core 'dinations cardstock on a mini scrapbook (not free)...but I'm not ready to post photos of that just yet (more work to do). I also love the "thank you" rub ons on the pink and black card. They are very inexpensive and so easy to use.

Valentine's Clear Pail with Quickutz Heart

2010-02-20T19:31:00.000-08:00

Here is my Valentine's Pail. This was my "If-you-brought-a-friend-to-the-girl's-night-out-this-is-your-prize" gift! Jessica brought a friend, so she got to take it home!

I just LOVE these clear pails from Stampendous. When the scrapbook stores get a shipment of these...they really fly off the shelves, so you have to buy them when you see them. They are $4.99 at The Scrapbook Page, and $3.49 at Archiver's, which is really weird...b/c usually The Scrapbook Page has better prices than Archiver's. So knows what was up with that.
Anyhoo...
This was my VERY FIRST TIME using vinyl in my Big Shot! *Pats self on back* Tee, hee!
It was so fun! And easy!
The trick is you have to take the foam out of your Quickutz die - or it won't work. You can buy more foam and replace it before you use the same die to cut paper. You DO NOT have to do this with the Sizzix Bigz dies. Well, those don't have foam anyhow...but you can cut paper or vinyl with those without having to make an accommodation.
The red frilly thing on the inside of the pail is actually a ribbon! I just love this very, very wide ribbon. It is at The Scrapbook Page...but I didn't catch the brand name. I tried using glue dots to adhere the ribbon on the inside...but got completely frustrated, and ended up just using tape. If you put the ends at the front - the heart will cover up the tape.
The striped ribbon is Bazzill. Can't remember the brand of the polka-dot...I think it might be Bazzill, too.
You can buy many colors of vinyl at The Scrapbook Page (a local store).
This looks really cute when candy is inside. In fact, I bought some red gummy hearts...but my son ended up eating all of them.
I'm going to make another one soon for my son, and fill it with candy. I figure it doesn't have to be Valentine's Day to give someone your heart! :-)

Bookmark - Tim Holtz Distressed Embossing Powder

2010-02-20T18:56:00.000-08:00

I made this at today's FREE make and take at The Scrapbook Page. I had a great time! The store wanted to show off a couple of their new Tim Holtz products. I've really become addicted to this store as of late...much to my poor husband's dismay.
I went ahead and put my watermark on the photo of the bookmark I made, even though I didn't design it. Hmmm...hope that is okay.
Speaking of Tim Holtz, I just came across his blog. Didn't know he had one. It is HERE. Hmmm, he is kinda cute - don't ya think?
This was a very quick, but fun, project. The chipboard keys come in a packet. I couldn't find the packets in the store - I think they sold out. I would like to find some key die cuts someday and just make my own.
Anyway...to distress the key:
1) Smoosh the key down into the Tim Holtz ink pad "rusty hinge" I think was the name.
2) Smoosh the key down into Versamark
3) Then sprinkle the brand new Tim Holtz Distressed EP over the key and heat set. I think the color of the EP was corduroy - but the salesperson said any brown would work. After it is distressed - it really feels like sandpaper! Cool!
4) Then tap the key with the brown ink again. It adds just a bit of color. Pretty hard to see it...but adds a wee bit of dimension.

Another fun trick I learned was distressing twill (see the ribbon in the photo). It was just ivory twill and you just swipe the Tim Holtz ink pad over the twill on both sides. I will definitely start doing this for my shabby chic cards (you know...those future cards...lol...)
Enjoy!

Valentine's Chocolate Drizzle Popcorn from Peggy

2010-02-20T18:45:00.000-08:00

This one is Peggy's! If you click on her name, it will take you to her blog. She designed this delightful popcorn bag for our Valentine's Girl's Night Out! It was so much fun!
Let me tell you...this popcorn is to die for! I have been behind on household chores, and I didn't take a photo of this project until tonight. Now that the photo has been taken...I get to eat the popcorn! But, Peggy had samples at the GNO - and it is sooooo good. And, you are in luck...because HERE is the recipe! (click on the word HERE to get the recipe, and it will take you to Peggy's recipe blog.)
I did put my watermark on the photo, so that no one would copy the photo and call it "theirs", even though Peggy designed the bag. We each got to make two for ourselves at the event, plus 2 each of 3 other card designs...2 card designs were mine, and this plus 1 other card design was Peggy's.
See how much fun we have? Please join us at the next one!

Everyone's Irish For a Day

2010-02-11T00:18:00.000-08:00

(below is the inside of the card)
You will just have to trust me when I say...this card REALLY does look better in person. I like to have a white background when I photograph my cards. Well, my backdrop is a sheet, and it is making the card "sit" a little crooked. This card is really cute in person! My husband and son loved it!
I love the fold of this card. The fold of this card is inspired from Mary on the Stamp TV site. She did a card folded like this in yellow, but her layout was different (hers had a big flower on the front, and a sentiment / nesty on the right section). Hers was perfect, but I wanted a St. Patty's Day card, so I came up with this.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CUTTING THE BASE OF THIS CARD
1 piece of white paper cut 3 x 8 and score at the 4 inch mark. This you will fold over your card base and tape the back flap onto the back of card.
1 piece of white paper cut 8 1/2 x 4 and score at 3. This is the base.
SUPPLIES
Cardstock: white linen, Karen Foster shamrock designer paper, light and dark green papers are from Bazzill
Ink: Dew Drop Pearl Ivy, and SU Always Artichoke sponged around the edge
Other: SU Border Punch, corner rounder punch, scallop circle punch, sizzlet shamrock die cut, Robins Nest metallic gold dew drops, glue dots, dimensionals, adhesive
Stamp Sets: "Everyone's Irish" Studio G; Other stamp is also Studio G, but wood mounted

Last, but not least, here are a couple photos from this week. Here is my mini Michael Jordan. He scored 16 points in Saturday's game! He is such a great basketball player! And the last picture is of Lukas, after his spa day today. He is so fluffy! I love my boys!

Valentine Treat Boxes

2010-02-10T08:48:00.000-08:00

Here are the treat boxes I made for the kiddos in Eli's class. The party was yesterday, and the kids really liked them! I was up late doing them the night before, as I procrastinated as always.
Although, they did turn out really cute - it was a frustrating project. I was uber uber excited to use my VERY FIRST COPICS (not pictured). I was told by the salesperson at a certain store that I could use my Archival Ink with Copics. NOT! I began the project at 10 PM...stamped the bunny...started coloring with my Copic...and the ink ran everywhere! So...much to my dismay I colored the bunnies in with Stampin Up markers. I suppose it looks fine, but I didn't get to use my Copics yet! Brand new goodies and nowhere to go! So, I am going to the scrapbook today to look for a Memento pad. They didn't have any last week...here's to hoping they have some in today.
I really love these treat boxes by Stampendous. They are a bargain, too, IMO! 10 for $3.99 at Archivers. I bought these for Eli's class, and I bought 10 more for Eli's basketball team. So, stay tuned for some fun basketball treat boxes. I could kick myself for not buying another 10 for all the teachers at school. I am pretty sure Archivers has sold out - but will go back and check sometime soon.
This little bunny stamp is by Verve Stamps. I discovered Verve Stamps in one of my papercrafting magazines, and I really like this stamp company! I will definitely order more from them in the future. The paper inside is white linen, and one of the ribbons is from Bazzil and the other is from Archivers.

Formal Esque

2010-02-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

Here is one of the cards we ALL get to make at our next Girl's Night Out!
We'll be embossing the image using ivory ZING onto Navy cardstock. I know it is hard to capture in the photo, but this designer paper is textured and glossy and the embossed image is a bit sparkly (in a very subtle way). I just bought this designer paper at Michael's two days ago! I also just bought the stamp set during the same trip - I thought the flower looked very nice with this paper.
We will also be doing many other fun projects. One of them will be a St. Patrick's day card, so stay tuned.
Supplies:
Stamps: Recollections "Formal Esque" and sentiment stamp is SU "Small Script"
Cardstock: Ivory Linen, DSP is "Home" by My Mind's Eye, Not Quite Navy by SU
Other: Zing embossing powder in Vanilla, Scallop Circle Nestie, SU punch, dimensionals, versamark, Not Quite Navy ink for sentiment, SU border punch, ribbon from Michael's

Coffee & Friends - the perfect blend

2010-01-26T09:32:00.000-08:00

This is my entry for this week's color challenge on stamptv. You have to sign up as a member on Stamp TV to play along. The site is sorta like splitcoast. I am really enjoying being a member of this ning network site. They have a new challenge almost every day. I'm really on a roll - this is the 3rd or 4th challenge I've participated in! I can see how folks get addicted to challenges. They really get you out of your comfort zone, whether it be a color combination you wouldn't have ever used, or a new layout or design.
This challenge required us to make a card using black, kraft, and white. I immediately thought "coffee", since that is my other addiction (the other one being rubber stamps), so here is my entry. As you can see - it is a very simple and quick layout. Wasn't in the mood for anything fancy when I put this together last night. Enjoy!

Supplies
Stamps: Verve "Delightful and Delicious"
Ink: Jet Black Archival Ink by Tim Holz
Cardstock: Black, White Linen, Kraft
Other: Button by The Paper Studio (Hobby Lobby), Twine (in the button), Spellbinders Piercability Border "Fancy Scalloped Border" in the Big Shot, Cuttlebug Folder, Dimensionals, Adhesive, Black ribbon from Archivers

Hi Cutie

2010-01-24T22:51:00.000-08:00

My first non-A2 card! Watch out...I'm getting whacky! :-)
Yes, it is about time I branched out and made a card that wasn't the usual 4 1/4 x 5 1/2. This one is 5 x 4 1/2. Cuh-razy!
Another way I'm branching out? I tried a new ink! I asked the staff at Archivers for a good black ink other than Stazon. They said they love Stazon, but another good one is Archival Ink by Ranger in Jet Black. I'm lovin it in a big way. It is waterproof, non smear, fade resistant, and acid free.
This card layout is cased from Melissa Phillips. She used different colors, different patterns, and a different sentiment - but the rest is very similar. She was published in "Card Creations Volume 7" by Papercrafts.
This owl has been very popular this year. I've seen the little guy in at least 3 of my card magazines. He's so adorable - I can surely see why everyone loves him. I love how he looks sort of like elementary school art.
*The owl was stamped on designer paper, and then trimmed out. I attached him with dimensionals, so the image would "pop".

Supplies:
Stamp Sets: Big Owl by Hero Arts. Sentiment is Woodland Animals by Hampton Art.
Ink: Jet Black Archival Ink by Ranger
Cardstock: Kraft (SU), Designer paper with the dots is SU (I think it is Urban Oasis...retired), Designer paper on the owl is Basicgrey "Granola"
Ribbon: Stampin Up
Other: Glue pen, dimensionals, sparkly black brads in the eyes (the package is long gone...sorry I don't know the brand), adhesive, corner rounder punch

Moxie Fab Challenge: The Taintor-tude Challenge!

2010-01-23T12:06:00.000-08:00

Here is my entry for the Moxie Fab Challenge: The Taintor-tude Challenge!
I have only entered three card challenges in my entire span of papercrafting - but, when I saw this challenge I just HAD to participate! Anne Taitor is the designer behind those cheeky little products you see in the stationary stores with the vintage ladies saying smart-alecky little comments. They are just too fun! And, after all, my husband calls me his saucy little monkey - so is it any wonder I like this sort of thing?
I began this project by surfing the web for vintage photos. This image really caught my eye. The red cape is just gorgeous - and she really has attitude, don't ya think? Then I went searching for a designer paper that would match just so. I thought this sentiment "fit" her personality. Although, I did almost put, "I'd rather be wearing my snuggie." But, I was worried that might not go over as well. I completed the project by putting a "ruby" on her finger.
This is my first Anne Taitor inspired card, but now that I've made one...I want to make many more. I have ideas for three more. So - time willing, I will share them with all of you if I get them on paper.
If you would like to participate in this challenge, you can find it here.

Supplies:
Cardstock: Ivory Linen by Neenah Paper and Designer Paper by EK Success (Brocade Red)
Spellbinder Die Cut: Deckled Rectangles
Image: Vintage Postcard from the world wide web http://www.art-e-zine.co.uk/
Sentiment: Just printed from a font using my good ol' printer
Other: Rhinestone by Kaiser (stuck on her ring finger), Lace Trim purchased on ebay, and dimensionals

Valentines for Childrens Mercy

2010-01-20T09:36:00.000-08:00

I just received an email from a local papercraft store, Scrapbook Unique, in Lenexa, Kansas. The owner is asking for home-made Valentine Cards for our local children's hospital. I am so pleased a local store owner is giving back to the children in our community. What a great idea. And, I am excited I have someone to make cards for! I hope you join and create some Valentines, as well. Here is her email:

"Again this year we will be donating handmade Valentine Cards to Children's Mercy Hospital.
You may want to include a personal greeting, a note or some small trinket that children might have some fun with.

Everyone bringing in 10 handmade Valentine Cards will get $5.00 off a $30.00 purchase. Limit one $5.00 per person please.

Please have the Valentines to the store by February 8, 2010 in order to have them to the Hospital in time for Valentine's Day.

Thanks for your help."

Another Girl's Night Out - Another Success!

2010-01-18T20:55:00.000-08:00

I have lots of pics to share from our January Girl's Night Out! It was a very successful night! We had a wonderful group of ladies! We shared lots of laughs, our creativity, and some yummy food and wine. We made some cute Valentine's cards, an adorable hand-made paper purse, and a lovely Spring note with a matching envelope made from designer paper. Now, I can make designer envelopes for all my cards, time permitting. We learned about liquid applique and flower soft, used the scor-pal, and learned even more about the versatility of Copic Art Markers. Of course, a beginner can come to any of our classes! We are always there to teach every step of the way! Thanks again to the hostess with the mostess, Miss Peggy! See ya next time, ladies!
Here I am, setting up and getting ready for the class.

Here I am working on punching out a very testy spellbinder die cut.

Some of the ladies working on cards.

This is my darling niece. I was so thrilled she was able to come.

An attentive audience.

We always learn so much, but mostly we come to relax and have fun!