In The Cat Cave

I am excited to see everyone's projects in this month's Paper Pumpkin Blog Hop. I've created a card and a matching ornament... if I were a betting woman I'd bet one of these crafters may also have the same project... It seemed so obvious to me to do an ornament by looking at the instructions.
... And then I would call us all geniuses...


You can, of course, cut the rim using both of the framelits at the same time.

#twobirdsonestone


Finally, I created a simple card to finish these projects off. Truth be told this is my type of card... simplicity with a side of sequins. But if you can look really close, the circle has embossed stitched perforations.  Its a small perfect detail that can bring your projects from blah to wow.  Love them!


Rachel Tessman is next up on this hop and she is known for creating amazing variations of these kits.  I can't wait to see what she comes up with! Thanks so much for dropping by!

Do we even have to talk about how amazing these stamps are?


So, I have an amazing stamp set by Stampin' Up!... but what makes this even better are the brand new Stampin' Blends alcohol markers that are being released to customers on November 1, 2017.

Honestly.

They are just amazing.

My idea for this Stampin' Up! Artisan Design Team project certainly evolved. I knew I wanted to create a gratitude journal.  I have plans to give each of my family members a 3x4" piece of white cardstock to document what they are thankful for and attach an Instax picture... Thanksgiving came and went in Canada but I intend to do this on a day where perhaps we truly need to count our blessings. Until then, this journal remains on my shelf with only my own blessing written out.

This sentiment comes from the Count Your Blessings stamp set by Stampin' Up! It's perfect in every way.

The cover of this journal starts with a piece of watercolor paper. I heat embossed the sentiment using clear embossing powder and black archival ink. To create the pumpkin, I dipped by aqua painter marker in Pumpkin Pie refill ink and hand drew the pumpkin as best I could. Eventually, I was happy with the image - remember that water colouring can be very forgiving so be sure to give this technique a try.


Thanks again for dropping by today - lets keep moving along and see what Dani has made for you.
Cathy

This is an easy tag using the Merry Little Labels by Stampin' Up!  I wrapped the red 1/8" ribbon around the mini mason jar and finished it using the 2" circle from the Stitched Shaped dies.

Coaches work so hard and give up a tremendous amount of time for the love of their game. I am so thankful for all the coaches that have helped myself grow in sport and now my children.  Thank you coaches - you rock!


This week's TGIF design challenge is a sketch challenge. To make this TGIF sketch work, I just centered focal points and was able to make my trophy work.  Sketches are always an inspiration so I hope you are able to play with us at TGIF. Don't forget to upload your work!


Cathy

When I count my blessings you are at the top of my list.

Count Your Blessings.

Absolutely.  It's a special message this time of year especially in Canada where Thanksgiving is a couple days away.  With all the tragic events happening, it's a great exercise to remember your blessings and to stay positive.

It takes intentional thinking and action.
You got this.
Let's change the world.
One positive thought at a time.


It's World Card Marking Day and I am so very exciting to be celerbating with my Stampin' Up! friends and family from all over the world. I love with all with all my heart because I truly feel connected to them in our funny world of crafting.


This card was created by first heat embossing a couple pieces of water colour paper in gold.  I water coloured over top using berry blast refill ink and an aquapainter.  Honestly, I loved the look just the way it is but wanted to continue to go further with the Count Your Blessings stamps. Adding only some layers and of course some machine stitching I finished this card. But really, all this card needed was the sentiment.

To celebrate WCMD, be sure to send a card today whether handmade or not.  Let them know you are so glad to have them in your life.

But before you do be sure to keep hopping to Holly Stene. I know she will amaze you. She's one of my sweet friends and Artisan sister. She's got a beautiful talent and an amazing style so I know you'll be blown away.

Until next time,
Love Cathy

Oh hello, blogosphere!

October is finally here and Stampin' Up! customers are able to earn this exclusive Merry Patterns stamp set! The Stampin' Up! Artisan Design Team is here to give more ideas on how you can make some beautiful projects. If you are still craving ideas and didn't get a chance to see our first blog hop using this stamp set, be sure to check it out here: Merry Patterns

Want more information about the promotion? 

When playing around with this set, I couldn't help but be drawn to the patterned reindeer. He's so ready for winter in his cute little sweater. (I am not for the record)

I am sure you'll see many people do amazing things with his multi-coloured sweater. But I thought he'd look pretty cool with just a dab of early espresso brown ink. And have no doubt that any time there's a bit of espresso, you clearly need a bit of kraft paper... and well, a hot cup of coffee and a pair of mittens to boot.


Repetitive stamping is an easy technique and always effective so be sure to try it out when you create your holiday projects!

Thanks for dropping by today and bundle up! As always, I am super excited to see what Dani has made for you today!

Cathy