Merry & Bright

It's hard for me to belive we have 1 week until Christmas.  I am clearly not prepared.  Anyone that says they are incredulous on how fast the year is going is probably playing the catch up game... and that, my friends, is me. :-)

I have been creating holiday cards for months, but I don't think this is something I've shared with you before.

Merry & Bright

I used the December Stamp of the Month again, but this time I tried something different.  I thought I'd go for a Charlie Brown Christmas tree.  I would have made this a bit bent over, but it wouldn't have worked quite so well for the Spellbinder die.  With all that bling, it looks like it'll topple over, though...  LOL!  I think that's one of my favorite holiday specials.  There's nothing sweeter than Linus sharing the real meaning of Christmas.

I hope your holiday preparations are going well.  Be sure to sit back and enjoy the moment at some point.

Thanks for stopping by,
lise

-------------------------------------------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Fir Branch (SOTM) by CHF
-Christmas Expressions (mona lisa moments) by CHF


Ink:
-Meadow Adirondack ink by Ranger


Paper:
-Simply Smooth by Prism


Patterned Paper:
-Mistletoe and Pear by Basic Grey


Other:
-Say It In Crystals by Prima Marketing
-Rhinestones by K & Company
-Nestabilities by Spellbinder
-Sewing machine and thread


Finished size: 5.5" square

NSR - In Loving Memory

For the most part, I spend time on my blog sharing artwork and my love for papercrafting.  This post is completely personal, but I felt it important to journal here.

Today, my grandma passed away, just after dinner, with her family around her in the manner in which she would have loved.  She waited for her youngest son to arrive and then declined.  We all gathered around for her final moments for a moment of prayer, solace and comfort.

She is gone and we are missing her.

Audrey Miriam Aubuchon Zankl

November 29, 1928 - December 13, 2008

So, with all that said, I thought I'd share a poem that hospice has printed in the family education booklet.

Thanks for letting me share about a wonderful woman,
lise

Gone From My Sight by Henry Van Dyke

I am standing upon the seashore. A ship, at my side,

spreads her white sails to the moving breeze and starts

for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength.

I stand and watch her until, at length, she hangs like a speck

of white cloud just where the sea and sky come to mingle with each other.

Then, someone at my side says, "There, she is gone"

Gone where?

Gone from my sight. That is all. She is just as large in mast,

hull and spar as she was when she left my side.

And, she is just as able to bear her load of living freight to her destined port.

Her diminished size is in me -- not in her.

And, just at the moment when someone says, "There, she is gone,"

there are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices

ready to take up the glad shout, "Here she comes!"

Beautiful - and a personal note

I have a quick card I'd like to share with you today.

The Rummage Bin release last week was a fantastic set sized for inchie artwork.  I just love working with a 1" area.  Small, yes.  But packs a mighty punch!

Inchie Style (The Rummage Bin) by Cornish Heritage Farms

Beautiful

This is truly a simply inchie style card at it's best.  The sentiment and the image are both from the set and work perfectly together to make a fast project.  I think this took about 10 minutes in total to create.  Nothing better than a fast card!

Thanks for stopping by,
lise
--------------------------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Inchie Style (The Rummage Bin) by CHF


Ink:
-London Fog Memento by Tsukineko


Paper:
-Simply Smooth by Prism
-chipboard inchie by inchie arts, llc


Patterned Paper:
-Eva by Basic Grey


Other:
-1-1/4" square punch by EK Success
-flower by Prima Marketing
-jewel brads by Making Memories
-threading water punch by EK Success
-Copic markers
-Krylon pen in Silver
-Staples
-lace trim


Finished size: 4" square card

CHF Challenge - Backgrounders

So, we normally do a weekly challenge and post on Mondays...  I'm late.  I know... 40 lashes with a wet noodle.  :-)

It's an easy challenge, though.  Cornish Heritage Farms has a wonderful selection of backgrounders!

Tiled Scallops Jewelry Set:

I created polymer pieces and added them with jump rings to a purchased necklace and earring set. The polymer clay pieces are very light when baked and will add negligible weight to the overall project. I had made this project for a sweet friend about 2 weeks ago and is perfect for this challenge!

Thanks for looking!
lise

---------------------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Tiled Scallops Backgrounder by CHF


Other:
-Necklace and earring set from Target
-Shimmery pastel pink polymer clay by Sculpey
-paper piercing tool to create holes prior to baking
-jump rings
-toaster oven and tray
-oval and circle cutters (I pinched the tops of the earring to shape a tear drop pendant).

December's Stamp of the Month

First of all, when did it get to be December?  I swear we were just smack in the middle of summer last week.  Sheesh.  Time flies!

The Stamp of the Month at Cornish Heritage Farms is always a fabulous deal ($6.99 unmounted / $10.99 woodmounted).  And the image this month is very elegant.  Definitely a favorite of mine.

Fir Branch and Sentiment:

Snowy Fir Branch:

I created this card to showcase both the branch and the sentiment.  I found the Basic Grey patterned paper at Michaels... there really isn't a patterned paper I don't love.  :-)

With a bit of glitter and a few snowflakes, this was a fairly quick card.  Here's a better picture of all the glitter.  I used a chunkier glitter for the image to give a crystalline appearance to the branch.  I really love the effect.

Also... if you catch this yet tonight (Tuesday- December 2nd)... for every 3 Scrapblocks you purchase today, CHF will include a FREE pack of Scrapblock Layer 8"x8" Paper Pack with your order.  Sorry I'm posting late... sale ends at midnight (MST).

OK... so I'm off to bed.  Hugs,
lise

-----------------------------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Firch Branch and Kindness (SOTM) by CHF
 Ink:
-Meadow and Pitch Black Adirondack ink by Ranger

Paper:
-Simply Smooth by Prism

Patterned Paper:
-Mistletoe and Pear by Basic Grey

Other:
-Nestabilities by Spellbinder
-Crystal Glitter, Glue, and Die-cut felt ribbon by Martha Stewart
-Silver brad by Making Memories
-Sugarplum snowflake by Me & My Big Ideas

Giving Thanks for You

Happy Thanksgiving!  There are so many things for which I am thankful... my family, our health, friends...

I may have shared this with you before, but it's appropriate to share with you today.

I give thanks for you.

Have a wonderful day!

Lise

---------------------------------------

Supplies:
Stamps:
-Leaf and Acorn (Sept Stamp of the Month) by CHF
-Giving Thanks (Sept Stamp of the Month) by CHF
-Open Plaid Backgrounder by CHF


Ink:
-Vintage Photo Distress ink by Ranger


Paper:
-Kraft, Papaya Puree Medium and Dark by Prism
-Classic Cream by Neenah


Other:
-Copic Markers
-Copic Blending solution
-Spray Bottle
-precision scissors
-Bronze Glimmer Mist by Tattered Angels
-Nestabilities by Spellbinder

Love Story

Are you ever in the mood to just color?  I love this craft!  Truly, I do!  What better excuse to sit at a table and color for hours upon hours for the joy of it?  When I was a kid, I had piles of coloring books and loved my markers and pencils.  Not much has changed, my friends!

The card I'm sharing today is just one of those examples where I colored for the joy of it.  I have always loved the Thomas Kinkade images and decided to purchase the Open Gate.  I stamped a stack of these and spent some relaxing and therapeutic moments coloring.

Love Story:

The image itself is a dream to color.  The detail of the image really makes these easier to complete than you might think.  I used Copic markers and added a bit of sparkle to the flowers.  And kept the whole thing very simple.  I didn't want to cover all that coloring.  :-)

Thanks for stopping by!
lise

------------------------------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-The Open Gate (Thomas Kinkade Series) by CHF
-Wedding Centers (Mona Lisa Moments) by CHF


Ink:
-Pitch Black Adirondack ink by Ranger


Paper:
-Twilight Medium and Light, Simply Smooth White Cardstocks by Prism Papers


Other:
-Lace trim from Hobby Lobby
-Copic Markers
-Atyou Spicca Glitter pens
-Sewing machine and thread
-Nestabilities by Spellbinder

Wedding Centers Release

I love the elegance of this new release for the Mona Lisa Moments line at Cornish Heritage Farms.  The sentiments of this set can be used for the most tender of love notes to celebrate a sweet couple, don't you think?

Wedding Centers:

Bride and Groom:

I stamped the Fiery Florals Scrapblock™ on vellum cardstock with White Moonbeam Brilliance ink.  It's stitched on the Desert Coral Light cardstock.  A few mini glue dots in strategic places keep it from moving around while sewing the layers.  I also used a small glue dot to hold my beads in place, so you can see the "something blue" in the design...

The vellum layer reminds me of the lace of a wedding dress.  I love this look... I'm sure I'll be repeating this style again!

Thanks for stopping by!
lise
-------------------------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Fiery Florals Scrapblock by CHF
-Wedding Centers (Mona Lisa Moments) by CHF


Ink:
-Moonlight White Brilliance ink pad by Tsukineko
-Espresso Adirondack ink by Ranger


Paper:
-Desert Coral Light, Vellum and Simply Smooth White cardstocks by Prism Papers


Other:
-Lace from Hobby Lobby
-White satin ribbon by May Arts
-paper flowers by Prima Marketing
-Pearl brads by Spare Parts - The Paper Studio
-Pin and beads from Craft store
-Nestabilities by Spellbinder
-sewing machine and thread

Finished Project Size: 5" square card

Sandra Kuck Release

On Friday, two new images from the Sandra Kuck Series at CHF were released:

Little Guardian:

Christmas Angel:

Aren't they darling?

I thought I'd share with you a design with the Christmas Angel.

This project is ALL about the image.  I love this sweet girl and she was a joy to color.  I did this image with Copics and added highlights with the Copic Opaque White.  I love the way the Opaque White gives dimension to an image.  No flat color for me!
Thanks for stopping by!
lise
-------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Christmas Angel (Sandra Kuck Series) by CHF


Ink:
-Tuxedo Black Memento by Tsukineko


Paper:
-Simply Smooth White and Nautical Blue Light by Prism
-Core'dinations light blue cardstock


Other:
-Textile Folder by Provo Craft
-Lace by Wrights
-Sewing machine and thread
-pin, bead from Kraft store
-Copic markers
-Copic Opaque White
-small sable brush

New Stamp of the Month

With the new month comes the release of the new Stamp of the Month at Cornish Heritage Farms.  This month is a simple and elegant image that I think will be a huge hit when I get to mass producing my holiday cards this year.

Joy:

The main image was stamped with Versamark Watermark ink on Crabapple Dark paper and embossed with Seafoam White.  After the image set, I pressed the Champagne Dazzle ink by Tsukineko over the whole thing for a super shimmery image (love those inks!!!).

Super simple and elegant.  And very fast!  Be sure to check out the gallery for more inspiration and the store for a wonderful deal.

Thanks for stopping by!
lise
--------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Ornaments of Joy (November SOTM) by CHF


Ink:
-Versamark Watermark ink and Champagne Dazzle ink by Tsukineko


Paper:
-Kraft and Crabapple Dark by Prism Papers
-Classic Crest Classic Cream cardstock by Neenah (matte)


Patterned Paper:
-Wassail paper pack by Basic Grey


Other:
-pin and beads from Michael's Craft store
-sewing machine and thread
-Seafoam white embossing powder by Ranger
-Nestabilities by Spellbinder


Technique:
-Sewing paper
-Embossing

Giving Thanks

It's that time of year in which we reflect and join family to give thanks for the year.  Hard to believe it's November, isn't it?  I created this card just for the joy of it and wanted to share with you.

I'm a frequent flyer at Ellen Hutson's store... you know what I'm talking about, right?  ;-)  Well, I saw this image and knew I'd make good use of it.

Give Thanks:

It's hard to tell from the image above, but I embossed an oval from the Nestabilities set first.  I stamped the image with Espresso ink and colors with Copics and Prismacolor pencils.  I highlighted the whole thing with the At You Spicca pens too.  It is so shimmery in real life.  Overall, it's a simple card, but I love that the Harvest Candle image speaks for itself.  No need for pomp and circumstance.

So, what are you thankful for?

I appreciate anyone that stops by to share my creative journey.  You are a blessing.

Thanks, as always, for stopping by!
lise

---------------------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-"Give Thanks" from the All Things Fall set (The Rummage Bin) by Cornish Heritage Farms
-Harvest Candle by Lockhart Stamp Company from www.ellenhutson.com

Ink:
-Espresso Adirondack dye ink by Ranger

Paper:
-Classic Crest Classic Cream cardstock by Neenah

Other:
-Copic markers
-Prismacolor pencils
-At You Spicca pens
-satin ribbon by Making Memories

Holiday Organization

I can't claim to be a perfectly organized person.  I go into every new endeavor with the intention of being organized.  A new school year starts and I purchase extra school supplies, only to forget where I tucked them.  Or keeping track of the family's appointments and schedules, only to forget to fill in the blanks... you know the drill.

Winter Vintage Christmas Journal

I found this notebook at Target and only covered the front.  I sewed the plaid layer and the white lace to the main panel.  I kept the embellishments on this fairly simple since I'll be using this and taking it with me... I didn't want anything that would rip off or damage the cover.

I intend to keep notes on everything this holiday.  Things I'll be noting:

• Shopping lists (colors, types, part numbers and sizes)
• Menus
• Holiday baking (cookies, cakes and candies - what we loved and worked well, so we can repeat)
• Grocery lists
• Schedules and Events
• Card-making (dates to work, supply lists / shopping lists, design ideas)
• Card list (mailing list, new addresses to note)
• General checklists - I'm addicted to checklists... make the list and complete tasks!  Nothing better than a completed task. 

How do you keep organized for the holidays?  I'd love to hear.

Thanks for stopping by!
lise

---------------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Winter Vintage Signage (The Rummage Bin) by CHF
-Perfect Plaid and Aged Music Scrapblock (TM) by CHF


Ink:
-Fired Brick Distress ink by Ranger
-Pitch Black and Slate Adirondack dye inks by Ranger


Paper:
-White Prismatic, Simply Smooth White, Blush Red Dark and Cryogen White by Prism


Other:
-snowflake die and embossing folder by Provo Craft
-Copic markers
-White lace by Wrights
-red twine by Martha Stewart
-Vintage Brass hardware by We R Memory Keepers
-sewing machine and thread


Designer Note:
-Thread the red twine through the white lace for contrast.

Be Creative

Blogging and stamping go hand in hand, don't you think?  It's been a powerful tool to share our creative talents, to make connections in the community and to learn / educate.

Cornish Heritage Farms is excited to announce a new blog for our creative endeavors.  It's called CHF Creative Blog and is Farm Fresh and yummy!  Isn't that clever?!?!?

Head over to see what we're talking about and there might be a bit o' candy in the offing!

Thanks and I hope to see you there!
lise

Beacon of Hope

A new set released at Cornish Heritage Farms today called Beacon of Hope.  The sentiments and images are so meaningful to me.

Aren't the sentiments wonderful?  I can't even tell you which is my favorite.  And I can see myself using each one... give a word of encouragment, to console, to thank someone...

Journey:

I created this card with the fall colors in mind.  And I haven't a clue how I landed on the layout.  Just something about the light yellow layer reminded me of the hillside and the trail leading to the door.  I hand drew the lines and trimmed.

The image was stamped with Archival ink and watercolored with Derwent pencils.  I use a waterbrush and pick up the color on the brush from the tip of the pencil.  Another good way to use them is to scribble on a piece of cardstock and use it as a palette, of sorts.

The sentiment "Journey" is for someone that is questioning things in her life right now.  This person is very special to me and I can't imagine what my journey through life would be without her.

Thanks for stopping by and sharing my creative journey,
lise
----------------------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Beacon of Hope (Scene It) by CHF


Ink:
-Coffee Archival ink by Ranger


Paper:
-Kraft, Papaya Puree, Iced Yellow by Prism
-Natural White by Neenah


Other:
-Derwent watercolor pencils
-Niji waterbrush
-Nestabilities by Spellbinder
-Dew Drops by the Robin's Nest

New Images

I am really excited about a new release coming up for CHF.  I spent a couple hours over the weekend stamping with the images and fell in love!  The images in the new line (called Scene It) are just that... scenery and sentiments that just speak to my heart.

The first peek at the set is a card I did in about 20 minutes.

You Are My Rock

To create the image for this card, I started with glossy cardstock.  I brayered the background with Denim ink to create the water.  Then, with a circle punch and a post-it note, I added the sun as a mask along the water's edge.  I brayered Red Pepper and Terra Cotta ink over the mask.  I removed the mask and brayered over the whole sky with Butterscotch ink.  To give the water some interesting depth, I brayered over it a second time with Denim ink and while it was wet, I used my finger (in a napkin) to smear around a bit.  I think this really looks like brush strokes.  I love how textured this looks.

Once the color was layered on the paper, I stamped the images with Jet Black Stazon.  Because I wanted the images to pop against the background (and not have the boat be the same color as the water), I painted in the lines with Copic Opaque White.  After adding a bit of white to the water (whitecaps), I stamped my sentiment.

I think it took me longer to outline the steps than it did to create it.  LOL!

Friday is release day and the entire CHF team has been creating with the set.  Be sure to check in the gallery for more inspiration with Beacon of Hope.

Thanks for stopping by,
Lise
-----------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Beacon of Hope (Scene It) by CHF


Ink:
-Jet Black Stazon by Tsukineko
-Denim, Butterscoth, Terra Cotta, and Red Pepper Adirondack inks by Ranger


Paper:
-Sunflowers Medium, Intense Orange and Glossy cardstocks by Prism


Other:
-Brayer by Ranger (Small)
-Copic Opaque White
-small sable brush
-1-1/4" circle punch by EK Success
-tape (to exclude larger bird)


Technique:
-Brayered background

CHF Challenge - Shaped Cards

It's Monday again and the challenge is on!  This week it's all about shaped cards.  Talk about a hard challenge for me.  I was convinced my head doesn't think this way... so this was a GREAT challenge.  Get me thinking outside the A2 card box, so to speak.

Apple Appreciation

This card went together quickly.  I sketched the shape of the apple on my folded patterned paper and hand cut.  The center sentiment is popped up and is single layered, but has a finished edge from the Silver Leafing pen by Krylon.  It's such a neat finishing touch!  Super simple, actually!  I surprised myself.

Check out the other CHF girls for their shaped cards...

- Julia Stainton
- Kristine Reynolds
- Alli Miles
- Carole Burrage
- Joanne Allison
- Val Stangle
- Dawn Lusk
- Michele Boyer
- Lesley Langdon
- Kim Hughes
- Julie Campbell

Their links are posted on my sidebar for fast hopping!

Thanks and I hope you'll take up the challenge with us this week.  Let us know if you do!
lise
----------------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Making the Grade (Kim Hughes Collection) by CHF


Ink:
-Pitch Black and Lettuce Adirondack dye inks by Ranger


Paper:
-Natural White by Neenah


Patterned Paper:
-Picnic Basket by October Afternoon


Other:
-Copic Markers
-Silver leafing pen by Krylon
-wide grosgrain by May Arts
-staples and stapler
-precision scissors
-Nestabilites by Spellbinder

World Cardmaking Day Fun

So... did you stamp over the weekend?  Did you enjoy World Cardmaking Day?  I did manage to stamp a couple of things and managed to add to my stack of holiday cards.  I'm sneaking up on that total, slowly.  LOL!

Stonehearth Hutch

I really love how the image completed.  I stamped the image and colored with the lightest colors of Copic markers and then layered in shading and depth with Prismacolor pencils.  To soften the colors, I colored over the entire image with a white pencil.  It blurred edges a bit and really gives the image an "out of focus" or a snowy afternoon.
Here's a close up... it's hard to capture the little hints of the glitter...

Thanks for stopping by,
lise

---------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Stonehearth Hutch (Thomas Kinkade Series) by CHF


Ink:
-Tuxedo Black Memento ink by Tsukineko


Paper:
-Core'dinations Elements cardstock (teal)
-White Prismatic by Prism
-Solar White by Neenah


Other:
-Copic markers
-Prismacolor pencils
-Glossy Accents by Ranger (on the windows, lightpost and tree lights)
-Glitter by Art Institute (adhered on the tree with Glossy Accents)

CHF Challenge - Quick Cards

Hello!  It's Monday again... and I've not been a very good blogger lately.  I think it's a function of time for me... type on my computer or stamp?  I know what my preference is!  LOL!

This week's challenge was quick cards.  I am the QUEEN of layers.  The more the better, actually.  Complex cards that take hours to create are my forte!  So this challenge is meant to give me a swift kick.  Sometimes less is more and quick cards are really what most people create.

My card today uses a few of the Primitive Beginnings images from Lesley Langdon's Rummage Bin line at Cornish Heritage Farms.  I really love these images!  They have a unique way of blending together perfectly!

Est. Home:

This card has a few layers (you didn't think I'd go cold turkey, did you?) and has stitching.  But it was fast!  I think in total, this took about 15 minutes (maybe less).  I stamped the Est. 1862 on the Granola (Vanilla Bean) patterned paper with Black Soot Distress ink and embossed.  Then, I stamped the Primitive House over it with Vintage Photo Distress ink.  I did it in this order, because I didn't want the lines of the house to show under the Est. image.  I glued and stitched... voila!  Fast card!

My computer's been acting up... or I'd link everyone that participated in this challenge... their blog links are on the sidebar of my blog.  These are the girls that will have a fantastic quick card to share and I can't wait to see what ideas they have brewing.

- Julia
- Jen
- Kim
- Val
- Alli
- Joanne
- Kristine
- Carole
- Michele
- Becky
- Julie

Speaking of brewing, I'm off to find more java.  Have a great day everyone,
lise
---------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Primitive House and Est. 1862 primitive individual image (The Rummage Bin) by CHF


Ink:
-Weathered Wood, Vintage Photo and Black Soot Distress Ink by Ranger


Paper:
-Kraft cardstock by Prism Papers


Patterned Paper:
-Granola by Basic Grey


Other:
-Clear embossing powder by Ranger (for Est. 1862 image)
-sewing machine and thread
-heat gun for embossing

CHF Challenge - Paint Dabbers

I was lucky enough to have gone to CHA this last Summer.  It was my first and hopefully not my last experience.  While there, I had a chance to watch Tim Holtz demonstrate how to use the Adirondack Paint Dabbers in his creations.

One of the things I learned while watching the master at work was how he used the Paint Dabber to stamp.  Start by dabbing the paint onto the stamp first (to get the paint flowing onto the surface) and then to wipe with the dabber to evenly coat.  This helps the paint completely cover the surface and maintains the image you are trying to stamp.  Very cool tip!

This week, the CHF team has a challenge to use Paint Dabbers on our project.  The items are the Product Spotlight in the forum and are also on sale for the next two weeks in the store.

Mini Clipboard:

I've opted to follow Tim Holtz tips and "painted" my lily with Snow White Paint Dabber and stamping onto the Scrapblock layer.  To give a bit more prominence to this layer, I sponged over the paper with Weathered Wood Distress Ink.  The paint resisted the ink and really stands out.

For more inspiration, be sure to check out the rest of the team participating:

-Julia
-Kristine
-Kim
-Sherrie
-Joanne

Thanks for stopping by,
Lisa
-------------------------------------
Supplies:
-Modern Lily by CHF
-Everyday Petites (Mona Lisa Moments) by CHF
-Weathered Wood Backgrounder by CHF

Ink:
-Weathered Wood Distress Ink by Ranger

Paper:
-Simply Smooth cardstock by Prism

Patterned Paper:
-Scrapblock layers by CHF

Other:
-Mini chip clipboard by Stampendous
-Snow White Acrylic Adirondack Paint Dabber by Ranger
-sewing machine and thread
-lace by Wright's from Hobby Lobby
-grey velvet ribbon by May Arts
-flowers by Prima Marketing
-Hardware by Tim Holtz
-corner rounder by EK Success

CHF Challenge - Blog Header Creations

Hello.  No... it's not Monday (at least I hope not!).  I had wanted to join the CHF weekly blog challenge, which we roll out on Mondays, but it was just not possible.  Our weekend was out of control... OK...I know...  which ones aren't?  LOL!

Even though it's not Monday, I was in for this challenge.  Our weekly challenges do not have a time limit, so if you are looking for a great creative jump start, head to the CHF Forums for some fun ideas.  I've used the out of the box Blogger templates for as long as I've had my blog and I really wanted to create my own Blog Header.  And it's really easy.  Honest!  I wouldn't lead you astray!

Here's what I did...

1. I cut a cardstock base of 3.75" x 9.75" and a black cardstock matte of 4" x 10".  I stamped and created the image I wanted, which is a Fall scene using the Primitive Beginnings set, from the Rummage Bin Collection.

2. Once I was happy with the base image, I took a picture.  You'd get perfectly straight results from scanning, but I couldn't get complete technical cooperation on this one... and well, it won't hurt if it's not exact (in my opinion).

3. I used Photoshop to edit the picture (shadows, etc.), just as I would my card creations.

4. Then, to add my blog name, I used the Text tool and a very cool font.

5. Resize according to the blog Header size.  The template I had called for the width to be 750 pixels, which I found specified when I opened the Header to edit (this wasn't something I knew inherently).

6. Upload the picture and Voila!  It's that easy.

Since I know many people use readers or other feeds, here's my new blog header:

So what do you think?

I just love this set... it's so sweet.  I used Fall colors and plan to change this out with the seasons now that I know how easy it is.  So, will you take the challenge to change with us?
The other fine ladies that participated in this challenge are:

Kristine
Jennifer
Lesley

Thanks and I hope you'll get the blog banner bug with us!  Post here and let me know if you do!  I'd love to see what you create.

Thanks for stopping by,
lise
------------------------------------------------
Supplies:
Stamps:
-Primitive Beginnings (The Rummage Bin) by CHF


Ink:
-Scattered Straw, Peeled Paint, Broken China, Black Soot, Walnut Stain, Fired Brick, Dried Marigold Distress Inks by Ranger


Paper:
-Natural White Classic Crest cardstock by Neenah
-Black Prismatic cardstock by Prism Papers


Other:
-Glossy Accents by Ranger
-Copic Markers by Imagination International, Inc.
-Liquid Applique by Marvy
-Sponges
-Inspiration from Dawn Lusk (the master at scene creations - luv ya, Dawn!)

We Remember..

The irony of today is that I'll be on a plane flying home this evening... and I can't help but remember September 11th for what it represents.  As I leave Newark Int'l airport, I'll fly over Manhattan Island and see the city of New York with it's altered skyline.  I actually see the change there as a badge of honor, to remember those that fought and lost... and those that didn't have a chance to fight.

We remember...

I think it's appropriate to share this card with you, created earlier in the year and not shared on my blog.

Land of the Free:

Thank you to all the men and women that keep us safe, either in the armed forces, national services, police or fire protection.  My hat's off to you...

Thanks for stopping by,
Lisa
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Supplies Used:
Stamps:
-The Land of the Free (Thomas Kinkade series) by Cornish Heritage Farms
-Hometown Pride (Thomas Kinkade series) by Cornish Heritage Farms


Ink:
-Espresso Adirondack dye by Ranger


Paper:
-Classic Crest Cream by Neenah from www.ellenhutson.com
-Twilight Dark, Blush Red Dark and Suede Brown Light cardstocks by Prism (CC01 - CHF Memorial Day Color Challenge), Black Prismatic by Prism
-Translucent Vellum by Prism


Other:
-Hardware (Vintage Brass) by We R Memory Keepers
-1-1/4" and 1-3/8" square punches by EK Success
-Brayer
-Copic Markers (see picture for list)
-Dimensional tape
-White gel pen by Ranger
-grosgrain ribbon by May Arts
-Heat gun (optional)

Thomas Kinkade Series Paper Packs - Christmas Creations

I had a few minutes one evening and thought I'd dig into the gorgeous Thomas Kinkade Christmas Series paper pack from CHF.  The papers are 8"x8" and perfectly sized for scrapbooking and cardmaking...

Well, I was in a hurry and didn't think I'd get too far... BUT... I surprised myself by completing a few things.

Silent Night:

Lightpost Card:

I used pre-embossed cards by DCWV and added a bit of the patterned paper.  A little touch of glitter rounded out the simplicity of the design.  Voila!

I almost felt guilty in how quick these came together... until I remembered how many cards I send out each holiday.  It's nice to know I'll be able to complete a bunch of these in an evening and have one less thing to worry about when the holidays roll around this year.
Thanks for stopping by,
lise
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Silent Night Card Supplies:
Stamps:
-"Silent Night" sentiment from Christmas Expressions stamp Set (Mona Lisa Moments) by CHF


Ink:
-Tuxedo Black Memento Ink by Tsukineko


Paper:
-Mystic Light cardstock by Prism Papers
-DCWV pre-embossed cards (5.5" square)


Other:
-dimensional tape
-Rhinestone sticker by Michael's
-Atyou Spicca glitter pens
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Lightpost Card Supplies:
Stamps:
-none (!!!!)


Ink:
-Vintage Photo Distress ink by Ranger


Paper:
-DCWV pre-embossed cards (5.25" square)


Patterned Paper:
-Thomas Kinkade Series Pack Christmas Paper


Other:
-Atyou Spicca glitter pens
-Dimensional tape

CHF Challenge - Adirondack Inks

It's Monday... and while that may seem like a bummer... it means that we have another weekly blog challenge at Cornish Heritage Farms.  We invite you to join us this week (and any week) with our challenges.  It's an amazing way to get crafting (as if we need an excuse - LOL)!  You can find details of our weekly challenges, color challenges and techniques in the forums (each phrase is a link to the location, if you are interested).

This week, our challenge is to use Adirondack inks.  I find that any of the Ranger inks are fantastic, but the Adirondack inks are now my go-to ink for any papercrafting.  I can't live without them!  The colors are rich and true, and with 48 different shades, I'm never lacking for a color.  To read more about the inks, check out Julia's post about the Product Spotlight HERE.

Camp Card Set:

My project for this week's challenge was fast and functional.  I needed 5 cards and I had about 30 minutes to create and write in them...

I sent these with my daughter, slipping them in her pack... one for each day of the week she'll be at camp.  I wrote a simple note to her so she'll have a little surprise.  My mom did the same thing.  If I know better, my daughter will get homesick about half-way through Tuesday evening, so these notes will be a big help.

The card base is Classic Crest Solar White cardstock by Neenah and has an embossed square on the front, made with my Nestabilities set.  Very, very simple, but all unique.

Check out the other members of the CHF team participating in the challenge:

-Julia
-Joanne
-Kristine
-Julie
-Carole
-Dawn
-Jen
-Kim
-Alli
-Michele
-Becky
-Val

Thanks for stopping by,
Lisa
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Supplies:
-Fall Silhouettes and Tag! You're It! unmounted stamp sets (Kim Hughes Collection) by CHF

Ink:
-Red Pepper, Ginger, Butterscotch, Terra Cotta, Meadow and Espresso Adirondack dye inks by Ranger

Paper:
-Classic Crest Solar White cardstock by Neenah

Other:
-Nestabilities by Spellbinder

Two Crafts Collide

I spent a hectic week getting my daughter ready for camp.  Her grade school does an outdoor curriculum program for science.  They head to Cuivre River State park for a week of camping, hiking and nature studies.  I'm so excited for her... I had a similar opportunity as a 6th grader at Our Lady of Loretto school at Camp 40 Legends.  It really takes me back!  I still remember everything we did at camp.  It holds a special place in my heart and I'm really excited she has the chance to go too.

So, to prep her, one of the items I tried to find was a shower caddy, where it would hold all her supplies.  She will have timed showers (ROTFLMAO)!  I can just imagine kids lined up for showers and having only 3 minutes... juggling all their things.  And as I shopped, I couldn't find what I had in mind, so I decided to make it myself.

That's where the two crafts collide... stamping and sewing.  I'm not a strong sewer.  I can handle the basics and have always made my own curtains and things.  This was actually a fast and easy project and one I'm sure Rachel will use again in the future.

Shower Bag:

I bought clear plastic sheeting at the fabric store (on the large 54" bolts with the other plastic table-cloth-like materials). I stamped a length of clear sheeting with Cotton White Stazon and the Pin Dot Scrapblock. This was SO easy to cover, since the Scrapblock is 6"!!! Love this

I also stamped on a smaller length - Rachel's name from the Quirky Alphabet and some fun details with Jet Black Stazon.  I colored the images with my Copic Markers from the opposite side.  Copics are perfect for this as they are not water soluble.

After I finished stamping everything, I started sewing.  It's really basic, but will be perfect.
The small section is the pocket in front, perfect for her toothbrush and toothpaste.

The bag is designed to hang in the shower with her and has drain holes in the bottom, which I made with the Crop-o-dile.  And... there will be no mistaking her supplies from her friends.  Perfection.

Thanks for stopping by today.  I'll have another little project for camp to share tomorrow... fast and simple.
Lisa
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Supplies:
Stamps:
-Pin Dot Scrapblock (TM) by CHF
-Quirky Alphabet and MochaChica stamp sets (The Kim Hughes Collection) by CHF


Ink:
-Cotton White and Jet Black Stazon by Tsukineko


Othr:
-Copic markers (used to color the images on the reverse side)
-Bias Tape by Wright's
-Sewing machine and Thread
-Clear plastic sheeting (Joanne's)
-Crop-o-dile by We R Memory Keepers

CHF Challenge - Sketch Fun

Happy Labor Day everyone!  I hope you are enjoying your Monday!

This week's challenge is a sketch created by Lisa Strahl, Art Director for Cornish Heritage Farms... oh and it's a great one!!!  I love a good sketch.  It's the perfect jump start to your creation and open for interpretation.

Sept 1st Sketch:

So, this is my creation...

Love Ya:

I used varying shapes in place of the circles down the side, framed the card base with random stitching and added a bit of lace and ribbon to tie it all together.  I really love how this completed...  Such a great sketch!

I hope you'll join us this week in our challenge.  For more information on the the weekly challenges, you can find the details here:

CHF Weekly Challenge Forum

A few of the girls are participating this week.  Check out their intrepretation of the design...

- Dawn
- Jen
- Julie
- Lori
- Kim
- Sherrie
- Michele

Thanks!
Lisa
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Supplies:
Stamps:
-Pretty Birds, MochaChica, and Scripty Words (the Kim Hughes Collection) by CHF

Ink:
-Pitch Black Adirondack dye ink by Ranger

Paper:
-Baby Pink Light, Kiwi Light and Dark, Frosted Teal and Intense Teal by Prism Papers

Patterned Paper:
-Mintberry Crush (MochaChica Paper packs) by Cornish Heritage Farms

Other:
-empty copper tag ring by Making Memories
-sewing machine and thread
-Copic Marker
-Staples
-Ribbon by Offray
-Lace by Wrights
-1-1/4" circle punch by EK Success

CHF Challenge - Vellum Cardstock

I know... you thought I'd gotten swallowed whole, haven't you?  I was starting to wondering if I'd ever get to stamp again.  The last month has been SO hectic, and last week the kids went back to school.  Three school meetings and visits at the hospital have consumed me.

But this week, I'm going to stamp.  It's a promise.  And as it's Monday, the Cornish Heritage Farms Design Team is challenging each other to use Vellum cardstock.  I LOVE this stuff.  I've written a technique article and did my on-line class at CHF using Vellum Cardstock.  Lovely stuff!

The Prayer:

I used two techniques with the vellum for this challenge.

1) I embossed it with my Cuttlebug Textile folder.  Vellum is delicate, so embossing can rip the paper easily.  I find it best to emboss a 1/4 sheet of cardstock and trim down to a smaller piece to ensure it's whole.

2) I stamped my main image on vellum and colored on the reverse.  In fact, I love this technique for detailed images... so easy to color them.  I stamped The Prayer with Stazon Timber Brown ink, which is perfect for slick surfaces.  The image is crisp and lovely!  Because Stazon inks are solvent based, they aren't a good ink to use with Copic markers.  The trick is to color the reverse side with the markers, yielding a soft and vintage look.  For more information on this technique, you can read more --> HERE.

To see what the other CHF crew has created, check out their blogs:

Julia
Kim
Carole
Michele
Kristine

Thanks for stopping by,
Lisa
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Supplies:
Stamps:
-The Prayer (the Sandra Kuck Series) by CHF

Ink:
-Timber Brown Stazon ink by Tsukineko

Paper:
-Nautical Blue Light, Med and Dark, Vellum cardstock by Prism Papers
-White cardstock by Georgia Pacific

Other:
-Textile Embossing Folder and Cuttlebug by Provo Craft
-Taffeta ribbon by May Arts
-Copic Markers
-Glue dots and dimensional tape

Dual Color Embossing Technique

It seems like ages since I've last posted.  And where has the summer gone?  The kids are going back to school next week!  Crazy!

I wanted to share another technique with you.  I'd written this for the Cornish Heritage Farms Technique Talk forum. 

Dual Color Embossing:

I just love how you can pinch more than one color of embossing powder and still translate this to great detail!  The link for the technique name will take you to the original article.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks for stopping by!
lise
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Supplies:
Stamps:
-Hugs and Kisses (the Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farms
-Perfect Plaid Scrapblocks™ by Cornish Heritage Farms


Ink:
-Red Pepper and Espresso Adirondack dye inks by Ranger
-VersaMark Watermark Stamp Pad by Tsukineko


Paper:
-Super Smooth White, White Prismatic and Classic Red cardstocks by Prism


Accessories and Tools:
-Chocolate Brownie and Chirpy Cherry Embossing Powders by Cornish Heritage Farms
-Nestabilities by Spellbinder from www.ellenhutson.com
-Heat gun
-Prismacolor pencils
-Coffee filter or powder tray
-Dimensional tape
-Brush (optional)

CHF Challenge #19 - Technique Inspiration

Oh Monday... can't trust that day...



It's been a wild weekend.  I did manage to create for this challenge and I'm so glad I did.  Cornish Heritage Farms has a wonderful resource available... a weekly technique article.  The challenge of this week was to peruse the posts in Technique Talk and use one for our card.



My card used the Paper Piecing technique that Keri Sereika posted.



Hello:

This was a super fun card to create.  I created a card base and stamped all my images on pieces of Sultry patterned paper, trimming.  Super fast!  It's a perfect alternative technique for line art, which abounds in the Cornish Heritage Farm images!



Thanks for stopping by,

Lise

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Supplies:

Stamps:

-Bloomin' Beautiful (The Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farms

-Vases stamp set (The Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farms

-"hello" from the Tag!  You're It! stamp set (The Kim Hughes Collection) by Cornish Heritage Farms



Ink:

-Pitch Black Adirondack ink by Ranger

-Vintage Photo Distress ink by Ranger



Paper:

-White Prismatic and Crabapple Light cardstock by Prism



Patterned Paper:

-Sultry by Basic Grey



Other:

-Dew Drops by The Robin's Nest

-Zip Dry Beacon adhesive

-Copic markers

-Precision scissors