Twelve Days of Christmas (in July!) Day 11

Can you feel the excitement??  Only one more sleep till the new Holiday Catalogue goes live!!  Today I have something a little different for you.  This card uses both new and old items, as well as something a little unexpected.  Check it out!

12 Days of Christmas Day 11 featuring the Open Sea and Greetings of the Season stamp sets.

Surprised?  I used the globe image from the Open  Sea set as the background for the sentiment.  I think it works rather well and I am always thrilled when I find new uses for a stamp set I love.  The other feature that helps make this card is the Holiday Frame TIEF.  It really sets off the focal image so nicely.  It is a gorgeous pattern and NOT just for the holidays!  Here is the complete list of products used on this project.  Starred items are available TOMORROW!!

The Open Sea (CM 123032, WM 123030)
*Greetings of the Season (CM 128033, WM 128030) pg. 8
Whisper White CS (100730)
Pool Party CS (122924)
Silver Glimmer Paper (124005)
Pool Party ink pad (126982)
Island Indigo ink pad (126986)
*Holiday Frame TIEF (127820) pg. 7
Big Shot (113439)
Pool Party Seam Binding ribbon (125582)
Vintage Faceted Designer buttons (127555)

If you've been enjoying this series, you're going to LOVE my Holiday kick-off event!  Check out my Upcoming Events page for details about my Ornament Keepsakes Stamp Camp happening at the end of August.  It will be SUPER fun (I sound like my 5-year-old there!) and will definitely get you going on your holiday crafting.  Here is a photo of the projects we'll be making:

Ornament Keepsakes Stamp Camp Projects

The best part is that in addition to leaving with 4 completed projects, you'll also get to keep your stamp set!  Call or email for additional information or to register. 
I'll be back tomorrow to celebrate the final day of the Twelve Days of Christmas and the launch of the new Holiday Catalogue...see you then!

Twelve Days of Christmas (in July!) Day 10

Today I have another card for you that uses more fabulous new products from the Holiday Catalogue.  That fantastic new book goes live on Wednesday and I am SO excited!  There are so many wonderful items to make your holiday crafting simply spectacular!  Here is today's project:

12 Days of Christmas in July Day 10 featuring the Scentsational Season stamp set and Snow Festival DSP

Inside view with sentiments from More Merry Messages.

Cute, huh?  I love the new Scentsational Season stamp set and coordinating Framelits!  I love them even more because I got them for 60% off retail!  Just one of the many fabulous perks of being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator!  Anyhow...I digress!  This card is even better because it SMELLS as yummy as it looks!  Those candy canes are embossed with the new peppermint scented embossing powder!  Talk about a whole lot to love!  The best part is that all of these products will be available in just two more days when the Holiday Catalogue goes live.  To help you get started on your wishlist, here is the list of products used to create this card.  *Starred items are from the Holiday Catalogue.

*Scentsational Season (CM 121190, WM 121026) pg. 16
Tiny Tags (CM 118592, WM 118091)
More Merry Messages (CM 126402 WM 126400)
*Snow Festival DSP (126908) pg. 10
Gumball Green CS (126840)
Cherry Cobbler CS (119685)
Whisper White CS (100730)
Cherry Cobbler ink pad (126966)
Gumball Green ink pad (126855)
Soft Suede ink pad (126978)
Versamark ink pad (102283)
Cherry Cobbler  Scalloped Dots ribbon (124138)
Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine (123125)
Neutrals Designer Buttons (119743)
*Peppermint Sticks scented embossing powder ( 127830) pg. 16
Heat Tool (129053)
Dotted Scallop Ribbon punch (119275)
Jewelry Tag punch (117190)
Big Shot (113439)
Perfect Polka Dots TIEF (117335)
Adorning Accents Edgelits (125595)
Adorning Accents TIEF (125601)

I am super excited that my 5-year-old is going to camp every morning this week!  That means some quality stamping time for Mommy!  Don't get me wrong...I love my son to pieces...but it's hard to get much accomplished when he's around.  He wants to "help" which is wonderful, but not overly conducive to quality results!  I can't wait to ink up some of my other Holiday goodies!!

Twelve Days of Christmas (in July!) Day 9

A good Sunday morning to you!  I hope you had a productive Saturday and can look forward to some quality family time today.  I am so looking forward to taking it easy and maybe getting a little stamping in.  Today I have a treat for you!  It is a sneak peek of an event I am planning for late August that features the gorgeous Ornament Keepsakes set.  I am having such fun designing the projects for this event that I just couldn't wait to share one with you!  Check it out:

Twelve Days of Christmas in July Day 9 - Tin of Gift Tags featuring the Ornament Keepsakes stamp set

Inside the tin there are 16 gift tags.

Four different tag designs

Fun, eh?  This little tin makes a fantastic little gift for just about anyone.  I did something similar a few years ago and everyone who received one LOVED it!  As I mentioned, this project will be part of an event I am holding in late August...more on that soon!  In case you want to try your own version of this set, here is the rundown of products used.  *Starred items are available August 1st.

*Ornament Keepsakes Bundle (includes the Ornament Keepsakes stamp set and Holiday Ornaments Framelits at 15% their individual price!) (CM 129950, WM 129949) pg. 3
Chock-Full of Cheer (CM 126717, WM 126715)
Cherry Cobbler Ink Pad (126966)
Gumball Green Ink Pad (126861)
Cherry Cobbler CS (119685)
Very Vanilla CS (101650)
Be of Good Cheer DSP (126896)
Whisper White Baker's Twine (124262)
Very Vanilla 1/8" Taffeta ribbon (119960)
Rhinestone Basic Jewels (119246)
Paper Piercing Tool (126189)
Stampin' Pierce Mat (126199)
Tin (retired)

Today I also get to show you this month's bonus project for July over at Craft Project  Central.  It is also a wonderful gift set designed  by Laurie Zoellmer.  Check it out:

July Bonus Project:  International Bazaar Cards and Folder designed by Laurie Zoellmer.

Isn't that a sweet set?  Laurie always does such wonderful work!  CPC bonus projects can be obtained by subscribing to two or more months in a row, or putting the Craft Project Central badge on your blog, or referring a friend.  This has been a terrific month with lots of inspiration...I can't wait to see what my fellow designers come up with for next month!  I know I'm pretty excited about my project...I can't wait to show all of you!!  Enjoy your Sunday!

Twelve Days of Christmas (in July!) Day 8

Happy Saturday to you!  I hope you have a wonderful weekend planned with friends and family and, of course, some stamping time too!  This weekend we are tackling our VERY long TO-DO list!  I spent time yesterday making a master list and then also did one specifically for my DH.  He needs to get cracking...and so do I!  We have family coming from Austria for a visit in September and our house needs to be ship shape for their arrival!  Not sure how much stamping time there'll be in my future this weekend...hopefully a little!  Here is a little inspiration to get you thinking festive thoughts...

Twelve Days of Christmas in July Day 8 featuring the Evergreen and Greetings of the Season stamp sets

Inside view with sentiment from the Beautiful Season set.

Can you tell I really love the new Evergreen stamp set?  I have several other sets from the new Holiday catty just waiting to see ink while I play around exploring the possibilities of this one!  This card is a really quick and easy one, made stunning by the beautiful embossed pattern.  I used the new Lacy Brocade TIEF and Core'dinations card stock in Cherry Cobbler.  So gorgeous!  I'll be using that combo again for sure!  Not sure you can tell in the photo, but the Merry Christmas on the front is heat embossed in gold.  All in all, a quick, yet elegant holiday card.  Here is the rundown of the supplies used in the creation of this card.  * Starred items are available August 1st.

*Evergreen (CM 127973, WM 127970)  pg. 18
*Greetings of the Season (CM 128033, WM 128030) pg. 8
Beautiful Season (122682)
*Cherry Cobbler Core'dinations CS (127846) pg. 6
*Sanding Block (129367) pg.6
*Lacy Brocade TIEF (127819) pg. 6
Very Vanilla CS (101650)
Early Espresso CS (119686)
Crumb Cake CS (120953)
Crumb Cake Ink Pad (126975)
Cherry Cobbler Ink Pad (126966)
Versamark Ink Pad (102283)
Gold Embossing Powder (109129)
Heat Tool (129053)
Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding Ribbon (102992)
Basics Glimmer Brads (121003)


Feeling festive yet?  If not, no worries!  I've got lots more Holiday inspiration in store for you!  See you tomorrow!

Twelve Days of Christmas (in July!) Day 7

In case you hadn't guessed by now, I am absolutely IN LOVE with this Holiday Catalogue!  I can't wait for it to go live so that all of you can enjoy the fabulous new products too!  Today's card is loaded with new goodies...check it out!

Twelve Days of Christmas in July Day 7 featuring the Watercolour Winter stamp set with sentiment from Pennant Parade

Inside view with sentiment from More Merry Messages

Can you pick out all the new products?  I think my favourite new embellishment is the new Brushed Bronze Designer buttons.  They are a nice size so you only need one to make a statement.  My favourite new tool is, by far, the Window Frames Collection Framelits!  For this card I rotated the shape and, lo and behold, a whole different look!  Here is the full list of products used on this card:

*Watercolor Winter (CM 129727, WM 129724) pg. 14
More Merry Messages (CM 126402, WM 126400)
Real Red card stock (102482)
Early Espresso card stock (119686)
Very Vanilla card stock (101650)
*Candlelight Christmas Specialty DSP (126901) pg. 4
* Brushed Bronze Designer Buttons (127833) pg. 32
Real Red 1/8" Taffeta ribbon (119251)
*Windows Collection Framelits (129021) pg. 30
Delicate Designs TIEF (127023)
Big Shot (113439)
Ticket Duo Builder punch (126883)
Real Red ink pad (126949)
Early Espresso ink pad (126974)
Lucky Limeade ink pad (126984)
Soft Suede ink pad (126978)

* Starred items will be available to order August 1st.

If you haven't received your copy of the new Holiday Catalogue yet, drop me a quick email and I will get FREE copy on the mail to you right away.  Trust me, you won't want to miss this one!

Twelve Days of Christmas (in July!) Day 6

I hope you're enjoying my Twelve Days of Christmas series...we're half way through!  Hard to believe August and the new Holiday Catalogue will be here in just a few days!  Today I have a card for you that uses a set from the Annual Catalogue...check it out!

12 Days of Christmas in July Day 6 featuring the Pennant Parade stamp set.

Inside view with sentiment from More Merry Messages

Although the stamp sets I used on this card are from the Annual Catalogue, there are still lots of new product sneak peeks for you on this card.  Here is the list of products I used, as always, starred (*) items will be available August 1st:

Pennant Parade (CM 122742, WM 122740)
More Merry Messages (CM 126402, WM 126400)
Early Espresso card stock (119686)
Subtles DSP Patterns Stack:  Wild Wasabi and So Saffron (117152)
Very Vanilla card stock (101650)
* Snow Festival DSP (126908) pg. 10
* 7/8" Cotton Ribbon (127844) pg. 20
* Brushed Bronze Designer Buttons (127833) pg. 32
Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding ribbon (120992)
* Window Frames Collection Framelits (129021) pg. 30
Labels Collection Framelits (125598)
Big Shot (113439)
Petite Pennants Builder punch (122361)
* Merry Minis Punch Pack (126882) pg. 6
Early Espresso classic ink pad (126974)
Wild Wasabi classic ink pad (126959)
Cherry Cobbler classic ink pad (126966)

Today I also have another fun project from Craft Project Central for you.  Designed by the ever-so-talented Heidi King, this sweet ensemble is perfect for the little ballerina in your life.  Have a look:

Birthday ensemble designed by Heidi King

Cute, eh?  Almost makes me wish I had a little girl to make this for!  To access the tutorial for this and any of the other great projects I've been showcasing this month, subscribe to July at Craft Project Central.  Then stop by Heidi's blog and let her know how much you like her design.
See you tomorrow for more Christmas fun!

Twelve Days of Christmas (in July!) Day 5

Happy Holidays everyone!  Do you know we're exactly five months away from Christmas Day?!?  We're counting down to the launch of the new Holiday Catalogue with some festive fun to help inspire you to get a head-start on your Holiday crafting.  Today I have another sneak peek at some wonderful new products from the Holiday Catalogue, which goes live on August 1st.  Check it out:

12 Days of Christmas in July Day 5 featuring the Greetings of the Season stamp set and Candle Light Christmas DSP.

I think this is my favourite design so far in this series.  I love the elegant simplicity of it!  I wish you could touch this card, because I used the flocked window sheets from the Candle Light Christmas DSP pack.  That lovely red brocade pattern is fuzzy!  Here is the list of products I used to create this card (*starred items are from the upcoming Holiday Catalogue and will be available August 1st:

* Greetings of the Season (CM 128033, WM 128030) pg. 8
* Candlelight Christmas Specialty DSP (126901) pg. 4
* Snow Flurry Bigz Die (127813) pg. 14
Whisper White CS (100730)
Cherry Cobbler Ink Pad (126966)
Vintage Facted Buttons (127555)
Rhinestone Basic Jewels (119246)
Framed Tulips TIEF (121809)

Are you making your wish list?  I know mine includes pretty much everything in the Holiday catty!  So many wonderful new products to play with!

Twelve Days of Christmas (in July!) Day 4

Today I have a sneak peek project for you!  This design uses several new products that will be available in just over a week with the launch of the new Holiday Catalogue.  Check it out:

Twelve Days of Christmas in July Day 4 featuring the new Evergreen stamp set.

Inside View

So many new products on this project!  Since the Holiday catalogue isn't yet live, I can't link each item to my online store, but I can reference the page number in the catalogue so you can have a look at each item in more detail and get started on your wish list!  Here we go (*starred items are from the Holiday Catalogue and will be available beginning August 1st!):

*Evergreen (CM 127973, WM 127970)  pg. 18
*Early Espresso Core'dinations CS (127848) pg. 6
*Sanding Block (129367) pg.6
*Wood Grain TIEF (127821) pg.33
Whisper White CS (100730)
Cherry Cobbler CS (119685)
Old Olive Ink Pad (126953)
More Mustard Ink Pad (126964)
Cherry Cobbler Ink Pad (126966)
Versamark Ink Pad (102283)
Gold Embossing Powder (109129)
Heat Tool (129053)
Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding Ribbon (102992)
Antique Brads (117273)

I am so in love with the new woodgrain embossing folder and the Core'dinations card stock!  I plan to use both of these items a whole lot in the coming months!  See you tomorrow for yet another bit of Holiday inspiration!

Twelve Days of Christmas (in July!) Day 3

Happy Monday everyone!  I hope you all had a wonderful weekend with lots of stampin' time!  Here is another festive project that uses items from the new Annual Catalogue.  Have a look:

Twelve Days of Christmas in July #3 featuring the Jolly Bingo Bits stamp set and Be of Good Cheer DSP

Isn't that fun?  I was playing around with my Jolly Bingo Bits stamp set and discovered I could spell "JOY" using the images in the set.  I let out a little giggle and set to work designing this card.  Once again, all items are currently available in the Annual Catalogue, so you can get shopping right away!

Jolly Bingo Bits
Be of Good Cheer DSP (126896)
Gumball Green Card Stock (126840)
Cherry Cobbler Card Stock (119685)
Very Vanilla Card Stock (101650)
Gumball Green Stitched Satin Ribbon (126848)
Cherry Cobbler Ink Pad (126966)
Gumball Green Ink Pad (126861)
1" Circle Punch (119868)
1-1/4" Circle Punch (119861)
Perfect Polka Dots TIEF (117335)

I have to say I'm having an awful lot of fun making Christmas projects right now!  It is somehow easier to design without the pressure of GETTING IT DONE in a hurry, as I always am during the holiday season.  I hope you're enjoying this series...tomorrow I'll be back with a sneak peek from the upcoming Holiday Catalogue!

Almost forgot!  I need to show you the latest project from Craft Project Central!  This one is designed by Sharon Burkert.  Check it out:

Serene Silhouettes Masculine Card set designed by Sharon Burkert

What a great set to have on-hand for the men in your life!  I don't know about you, but I always find myself needing a masculine card just when I have NO time to make one!  This set would be perfect to make ahead of time so that the next time I need a quick card I have one all ready to go.  To access the tutorial for this project head over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to July.  The stop by Sharon's blog and let her know how much you appreciate her work.

Twelve Days of Christmas (in July!) Day 2

The weather outside may be hotter than hot, but my thoughts are all about Christmas this week!  As we count down to the launch of the new Holiday catalogue I'm bringing you lots of inspiration to get you in the Festive Spirit.  Here is today's project:

Twelve Days of Christmas (in July!) Day 2 featuring the Chock Full of Cheer stamp set and Be of Good Cheer DSP

This is a card I received in our team swap at last month's meeting.  It was designed by my upline, Jamilla Ivits.  I loved it so much I decided to include it in this series!  Once again, all of the products used on this card are available to order right now, so there is no excuse to put off starting your holiday projects.  Here is the list of products used in designing this card:

Chock Full of Cheer (CM 126717, WM126715)
Be of Good Cheer DSP (126896)
Gumball Green Card Stock (126840)
Cherry Cobbler Card Stock (119685)
Very Vanilla Card Stock (101650)
Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine  (123125)
Rhinestone Basic Jewels (119246)
Basic Black ink pad (126980)
1-3/4" Circle Punch (119850)
Decorative Label Punch(120907)
Perfect Polka Dots TIEF (117335)
Versamark pad (102283)
Cherry Cobbler Embossing Powder (122949)
Basic Black Embossing Powder (109133)
Heat Tool (129053)

I'll be back tomorrow with yet another festive creation...enjoy your Sunday!

Twelve Days of Christmas (in July!) Day 1

Happy Saturday everyone!  Well, we're only 12 days away from the launch of the new Holiday Catalogue and let me tell you, I am SOME excited!!  This is, by far, the best Holiday catty EVER!!  There truly is something for everyone in there.  One of my favourite things is the new bundle options.  Get groupings of products designed to work together at a 15% discount!  What's better than that?!?  Anyhow...in order to get you in a festive frame-of-mind I've decided to count down to the Holiday Catty with my own Twelve Days of Christmas (in July) series that will feature projects designed to ignite your festive spirit and get you started on your holiday crafting in time to actually FINISH in time for Christmas!  So, without further ado, here is the first item:

12 Days of Christmas #1 - featuring the Chock Full of Cheer stamp set and Be of Good Cheer DSP

This card doesn't actually use anything from the upcoming Holiday Catty...I'm saving the Sneak Peeks for a little later.  All of the products on this card are available RIGHT NOW!  So what are you waiting for?  Here is a list of the items I used so you can get your order in and get started on your Christmas cards right away:

Chock Full of Cheer (CM 126717, WM126715)
Be of Good Cheer DSP (126896)
Gumball Green Card Stock (126840)
Cherry Cobbler Card Stock (119685)
Very Vanilla Card Stock (101650)
Gumball Green Stitched Satin Ribbon (126848)
Brights Glimmer Brads (121006)
Gumball Green Ink Pad (126861)
Gumball Green (In-colour Set (126856) and Cherry Cobbler (119681)Markers
1-3/4" Circle Punch (119850)
2-1/2" Circle Punch (120906)
Large Oval Punch (119855)
Dotted Scallop Ribbon Punch (119275)
Stripes Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (TIEF) (123128)
Northern Flurry TIEF (120902)
Versamark pad (102283)
Cherry Cobbler Embossing Powder (122949)
Heat Tool (129053)

The Chock Full of Cheer stamp set and coordinating DSP work wonderfully together.  Stay tuned tomorrow for another project using this combo.

On another note I have the latest project from Craft Project Central for you!  Today's post is brought to you by Julie Beltramo.  Julie came up with several fun projects that use 6x6 pieces of Designer Series Paper (DSP) and put them all together in a tutorial for Craft Project Central.  Check this out:

Assortment of projects made with 6x6 pieces of DSP designed by Julie Beltramo

What a fun bunch of little treat holders!  Such cute ideas and all made from 6x6 squares of DSP.  To access the tutorial for Julie's projects simply subscribe to July at Craft Project Central.  It's only $10 and you'll get TEN full-colour, step-by-step tutorials...what a deal!  When you're done there stop by Julie's blog and show her some love...she deserves it!

Hoppy Birthday

When I needed a masculine design for a recent class I turned to the new Moving Forward stamp set.  Not only does this set have a bunch of great images in it, but a portion of the proceeds from each sale of this set goes to support Ronald McDonald House Charities.  You may not be aware that Stampin' Up supports RMHC in many ways, this being one of them.  Here is the card I created:

Birthday card featuring the Moving Forward stamp set with sentiment from Bring on the Cake.

Isn't that a fun card?  I love those little froggies!  The colour scheme is one that I am very fond of:  Lucky Limeade, Island Indigo and Whisper White.  The DSP is from the Floral District pack and is perfect for a masculine project.  I borrowed an idea from Mary Fish and made the "a" in "happy" into an "o" with a brad...it adds a fun bit of whimsy, don't you think?

Cheers!

I recently did a private class for one of my customers and her friends and family.  They requested a feminine birthday card as one of the projects.  I decided to stay away from flowers and go in a different direction, so I pulled out my as-yet-uninked Happy Hour stamp set and got busy.  This is what I came up with...

Birthday card featuring the Happy Hour stamp set.

Inside view.

Fun, eh?  I drew my colour pallette from the fantastic Patio Party DSP and used the patio lantern patterned paper to add a bit of summer flair.  I stamped the three glasses in Midnight Muse ink and then stamped them again on a piece of scrap paper in Summer Starfruit, Primrose Petals and Baja Breeze respectively.  I then cut out the "liquid" from each of the coloured images and paper-pieced them onto the glasses.  This is a great way to get multi-coloured images without using markers.  The ribbon on the front of the card is Rose Red seam binding.  I didn't have any of the Primrose Petals stitched satin and the Rose Red was pretty close.  I also used some glimmer brads from the Brights pack...again, not an exact match for the Summer Starfruit, but still close enough to work.  The last touch on the front of the card was the embossing using the argyle folder...so love that pattern!
On the inside of the card I stamped the sentiment in Midnight Muse and then randomly stamped some of the garnish images in the colours I used on the front.  A fun little addition.  Now that I've finally inked up this set, I'm seeing many possibilities for it...stay tuned for future projects!

A Fitting Birthday

This past weekend I had some quality play time with my new stamps.  I was also working on designing some samples for upcoming classes and workshops and, since birthday cards are always in demand, I put together this fun little card...

Birthday card featuring A Fitting Occasion and Itty Bitty Bits stamp sets with sentiment from Lovely Little Labels.

Inside view with sentiment from Bring on the Cake.

I did another project using this colour scheme a while back and just loved how vibrant and fresh Melon Mambo and Gumball Green are when paired with Whisper White.  For the front of the card I used the A Fitting Occasion set and added the little cupcake from Itty Bitty Bits.  Now, there are a couple of sneak peeks here from the upcoming Holiday Catalogue as well!  The DSP peeking out from behind the punched circles in the windows is from a wonderful new pack of holiday paper called Snow Festival...lots of fun prints that are not only for the Holidays!  Speaking of the little windows...those were made with a new 1-1/4" scalloped circle punch!  So happy to have another size to play with!
The inside of the card was stamped again using the tiny cupcake from Itty Bitty Bits and the sentiment is from the Bring on the Cake set.  Gotta love when stamp sets combine so easily!

In other news, I have the latest project for you from Craft Project Central.  Today's adorable design is by Kim Score.  Kim does some gorgeous work and this is no exception.  Check it out:

Storybook Friends cards and Candy Box by Kim Score

 Isn't that just darling??  I so love that DSP and coordinating stamp set!  To access the tutorial for this and 9 other projects simply head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to July.  Then stop by Kim's blog and tell her how much you love her project!

Using up more scraps

A couple of weeks ago I cleaned up my stamping desk and found all sorts of treasures buried under the pile of scraps.  Among them was a die-cut doily and some DSP that were begging to be made into a wedding card.  So...here it is!

Wedding card featuring the Love and Laughter stamp set.

I have to admit that this is the first time I've inked up my Love and Laughter stamps...sad, I know...especially since I've had them since they were in the last Occasions Mini!!  I just haven't had a need for a wedding card lately, but my hubby's cousin is getting married next weekend and this card will come in handy.  I do love the touch the little pearls add to the cake...very bridal, no?   I also am really loving the new Delicate Doilies Sizzlet die...so pretty and great to layer.  Ah...so many fabulous new products...so little time!

Serene Silhouette

One of the stamp sets I just HAD to own when I first laid eyes on the new catalogue is Serene Silhouettes.  I just love the images in that set and saw so many possibilities for it.  Today I have a card I designed using this set for my team meeting this month...

Simple any-occasion card featuring the Serene Silhouettes stamp set

Isn't that cool?  What's even better is that the focal image is inked right on the Whisper White layer, thanks to some masking and sponging.  The result is the look of torn paper.  I had originally planned to do a single layer card, but decided that matting it with black just made the whole thing pop.  I omitted a sentiment on the front...didn't want to take away from the peacefulness of the image...but this could easily work for just about any occasion.  I like this card so much I've decided to use it for a class I have tonight.  They want a generic thank you card...by adding a "thank you" on the inside I think this one fits the bill quite nicely, no??  I hope my class participants think so!

One more Reason to Smile

Today I have my last project in my week-long series featuring the beautiful Reason to Smile stamp set.  I hope you've enjoyed seeing just how versatile this set is.  I know I've certainly enjoyed playing with it to create all of these projects!  My final sample is another one that I designed for my monthly techniques group.  It uses the Faux Linen technique...

Bright and colourful Birthday card featuring the Reason to Smile stamp set with sentiment from Perfect Punches.

Inside view with sentiments from One in a Million

I just love the combination of Melon Mambo and Gumball Green!  What a vibrant, cheerful duo they are!  I'm not sure it shows in the photo, but the background on the front of the card is done using the Faux Linen technique.  I stamped the line-art Daisy image all over using Whisper White craft ink once I had created my coloured linen background.  For the focal image, I watercoloured it a little differently.  I began by stamping my images on watercolour paper after inking the stamp with markers.  I then used a blender pen to blur the image and pull colour from the stamped lines to fill in the rest of the image.  The result is a soft, blurred watercolour effect.  The rest of this card is pretty straightforward and came together quickly. 
I hope I've shown you just how wonderful this stamp set is.  If you missed my previous projects using this set, just click back through the last week's worth of posts to view them.  Then call or email to place your order and get this stamp set for just $5 when your order reaches $60.  Hurry...this offer only lasts until the end of the month and then this stamp set will be gone for good!

Now for yet another fantastic project from Craft Project Central.  Today's fun idea comes from fellow Canadian Tara Bourgoin.  Check this out:

Gift Cards and Tags set designed by Tara Bourgoin

This cute set has everything one needs to be prepared for birthdays, dinner invitations and other special events.  It also makes a wonderful gift.  To access the instructions to make this project and nine others, visit Craft Project Central and subscribe to July. 

Soft and Pretty

Happy Saturday to you!  Today I have a soft and pretty card I created for my monthly techniques group.  It uses the Faux Silk technique...have a look:

Soft and pretty Birthday card featuring the Reason to Smile stamp set with greeting from Petite Pairs.

Inside view

I had great fun with my embossing folders on this one!  I used one of the Delicate Designs folders along the left edge to create that beautiful scalloped lace pattern and then used my Perfect Polka Dots folder on the rest of the card front.  The focal image is done using the Faux Silk technique.  Such a quick and easy way to add texture and interest to any project.  I used one of my favourite colour combos:  Calypso Coral and Pool Party against the Whisper White...so clean and fresh!  My techniques class enjoyed this project...I hope you did too!

WOW!

That's what I said right out loud when I saw the  amazing project Amanda Corbett came up with for this month at Craft Project Central.  Check this out...I'm pretty sure you'll have the same reaction!

Simply amazing birthday cake gift box designed by Amanda Corbett

Isn't that just beautiful??  It really looks like a yummy cake and it is all made of paper!  If you have someone special celebrating a birthday in the near future or just want to have something on-hand for future use, this is a terrific project to make.  To access the full-colour tutorial for this project and nine others, head on over to Craft Project Central and subscribe to July. 

As if this project wasn't enough of a reason to smile...here's another!  Card #4 using the beautiful, limited edition Reason to Smile stamp set.  Have a look:

Any-occasion card featuring the Reason to Smile stamp set.

I had more fun watercolouring on this one.  I also used the line-art side-view image to give a bit of interest to the embossed background.  So...have you ordered your Reason to Smile set yet??  Only $5.00 with a $60.00 order till the end of the month.  Then this offer and the chance to get your hands on this set will be gone forever!

Sunny Smiles

The weather here in Southern Ontario has been absolutely gorgeous this week!  The heat and humidity we experienced last week have been replaced by comfortably warm days, cool nights and cloudless skies.  We couldn't ask for more perfect summer weather!  Today's post makes me think of summer!  I've taken the Reason to Smile stamp set in a different direction...check this out:

Super Simple Thank you card featuring the Reason to Smile stamp set with sentiment from Blooming with Kindness

I created this thank you card for the participants in a swap that I recently hosted.  Everyone got one in their envelope along with their swapped cards.  I decided to go with a completely different colour scheme and use the daisy image as more of a sunflower.  My colour scheme was Very Vanilla, More Mustard and Early Espresso.  These cards had to be quick and easy because I had to make a lot of them! Isn't it wonderful when you find multiple uses for a single stamp set??  It's even better when that stamp set only costs you $5.00!!

Too cute!

That's what I thought when I saw today's offering from Craft Project Central.  Check this out:

Cute little Flower Basket Gift Set designed by Christy Fulk

Isn't that a fun project??  I love the way Christy used the new Floral Frames Framelits to construct her basket and then also used them on her little cards as well.  What a great gift set this would make!  You can get the tutorial for this and NINE other great projects by subscribing to July over at Craft Project Central...just $10 for TEN full-colour tutorials.  Can't beat that value!

Now for another reason to smile...a new project using that fabulous limited-edition Reason to Smile stamp set!  I designed this one for my monthly team meeting so that everyone on my team would have a sample of a card made with this beautiful set.  Have a look...

Thank you card featuring the Reason to Smile stamp set with sentiment from Kindness Matters.

Unlike yesterday's card which I watercoloured, this card uses 2-Step Stampin'.  I stamped the solid image first and then the line-art image right over top with the same colour of ink.  You'll notice that my images don't match up perfectly...that's ok...I wasn't aiming for perfection on this card.  If I were I would use my Stamp-a-ma-Jig to get the line-art image perfectly aligned with the solid background.  I was aiming for quick, easy and fresh.  I think this card works on all counts, no?

Tomorrow I'll be back with another quick and easy card using this set that has a completely different look.  Stay tuned...

Another Reason to Smile

As promised, I have another project today that features the limited edition Reason to Smile stamp set.  This gorgeous set is only available during the month of July and then will never be available again...trust me, you don't want to miss out on this one!  Have a look at today's card and you'll see why...

Soft and pretty birthday card featuring the Reason to Smile stamp set and sentiment from the Occasions Alphabet set.

Pretty, huh?  I so love those daisies!  I also love watercolouring, which is what I did to colour the focal image.  In case you'd like to try it, I used my ink pads and blender pen and started by colouring the blossoms with Pink Pirouette and then shaded with Pretty in Pink.  I added highlights using Regal Rose.  The stems are done in Certainly Celery and I added shadowing all the way around each flower using Sahara Sand.  The DSP in the background is from the Fan Fair pack...lots of great patterns and wonderful colours in that one!
One of the reasons this is such a great stamp set is that it has something for everyone:  beautiful images to colour for those who enjoy that, but also solid image stamps to add colour quickly and easily using 2-Step Stampin' for those who don't.  Gotta love versatility!  Tomorrow I'll show you a card that uses the latter technique...stay tuned!

So Many Reasons to Smile

Reason #1...we have a winner!  The winner of the free month's subscription to Craft Project Central is

Sandy U!!

Congratulations, Sandy...I'll be in touch about how you can access your free subscription...enjoy!

Reason to smile #2:  You can purchase the beautiful, limited edition Reason to Smile stamp set for just $5 when you place a $60 order this month.  How sweet is that?  To show you just how gorgeous the images in this set are, I'm going to be featuring several projects using that set over the coming week.  I hope you enjoy them!  Here's the first...a really quick and easy card:

Simple Thank you card featuring the Reason to Smile stamp set with sentiment from Perfectly Penned.

Pretty simple and straightforward, eh?  Gerber daisies are one of my favourite flowers, so it was only natural that I fall in love with this stamp set.    This card literally took me less than 10 minutes to make...gotta love quick and easy designs for when you need a card in a hurry.  Speaking of which, I have some work to do today design the projects for my upcoming events this week.  I hope today holds some stamping time for you too!  Enjoy!!

Party Pinwheels

Time for another fabulous project from Craft Project Central!  Today's design is brought to you by Laurie Zoellmer...have a look:

Patio Party Pinwheels Ensemble by Laurie Zoellmer

This fun project would be perfect for a summer birthday party and includes decorations, a treat bag and greeting card.  To access the tutorial  simply subscribe to July...only $10 for 10 full-colour tutorials...what a deal!    Today is also the last day you can enter my draw for a free month's subscription, so be sure to leave a comment on this post...maybe you'll win your month for free!  Check back tomorrow to see who the lucky winner is!

Another Teacher Thank You

Last week I showed you one of the thank you cards I made for my son's pre-school teachers.  Today I have the second card I made.  He really loved the program he was in and his two teachers were simply wonderful.  They've done a great job preparing him for Kindergarten in the fall!

Teacher Thank You card featuring the Storytime DSP with sentiment from the Family Reunion set

Cute, eh?  I love the Storytime DSP pack!  The images and colours are so retro and fun!  It made this card really easy to put together...the only stamping is the sentiment panel!  Max's teacher loved it!

Now for a photo of my little graduate:

Ready for Big-Kid School!

A salute for Mommy...with one of his terrific teachers.

Congratulations, my big boy...I am so proud of you!!

Just a reminder to be sure and enter my draw for a free month's subscription to Craft Project Central.  Just leave a comment on today's post to be entered.  I'll announce the winner on Sunday, July 8th.  Best of luck!

What's on your desk?

I knew it was time to clean up my stamping corner when my son came downstairs the other day and said "Mommy, what a mess!  You need to clean this up!"  You know it's bad when  a 5-year-old says it's time to clean up!  As I was digging through the pile of months' worth of scraps I found a piece of Whisper White I had embossed and then cast aside.  It became the foundation for today's project.  Have a look:

Baby Card featuring the  Baby Boutique and One in a Million stamp sets

Inside view with sentiment from Curly Cute.

Whaddya think?  It wasn't much of a leap to arrive at a baby card with all that embossing.  I added a scrap of Patio Party DSP and used a bit of pleated satin ribbon leftover  from the last Occasions Mini that I also found laying in the pile on my desk (that'll give you an idea how long it's been since I cleaned up!)  I love the new Baby Boutique stamp set...so sweet!  I'm sure I'll have plenty of opportunity to use this card this summer.  SO many gals I know are expecting...surely one of them will have a little boy!