Saturday Class Card

This Saturday I'm teaching an All Occasions Card Class at the local Gift Boutique and have been busy today working on the cards needed for the group.  The card I'm sharing here is one that was a make and take made at one of my local demonstrator group meeting.  The one we are doing for class is a different color scheme but I don't have it done or photographed so the card I'm CASEing is the one I'm sharing.  Have I confused anyone, yet?  :-)

 
I'm sorry but I don't remember the recipe for the card.  I'll be sure to share the one I'll be using in the class.  At least I felt well enough today to sit and work on projects.  I'm so glad the headache is gone!

Until we meet again...

It's Raining

Well, I'm sorry to have to say it's been another day of let's just be a slug and get nothing done.  I really hope this goes away soon and I feel like doing cartwheels again.  I found a picture that matches my mood and am sharing it with you since I've not made anything lately.  It is actually raining as I'm writing this post and getting dark and just plain gloomy.  Yup... definitely matches my mood.  Now I'm off to watch "The Rifleman" on MeTV.  I love watching the programs that were on when I was growing up.

Until we meet again...

Is It Spring, Yet?

Okay, so things didn't go as planned and I won't be sharing new creations with you today.  What I am sharing is a photograph I took in the spring of 2010 as I was making a run through Culver's drive through for lunch.  The bushes were so full of blooms that you could barely see the wall behind them.  So, enjoy this little bit of spring from the past and I'll be back later.

Until we meet again...

Running On Empty!

This is just how I feel at the moment.  The cold and congestion I've been fighting just won't seem to let go.  Unfortunately, it means that this creative coach is truly running on empty.  I'm believing that tomorrow I'll feel much better and can get new photos posted to show you some of the new things I've created recently.  So, stay tuned and check back tomorrow.

Until we meet again...

Stampin' Up! Inks

Ink is a basic ingredient for any stamping project, and with many choices for ink, markers, pens, and pastels, you're sure to find the color you need!

• Stampin' Pads and Stampin' Ink. Keep your stamp pads moist with Stampin' Up!'s patented, flip-top design that stores the inking surface upside down. Our dye-based Classic ink and pigment Craft ink are ideal for paper crafting, are acid free, and are available in pads and ink refills.
• Stampin' Write Markers. Ink a portion of an image or create dramatic details using markers. Stampin' Write markers are sold individually, as a color family, or all together.
• Watercoloring. Watercolor your projects using Stampin' Up!'s watercoloring products including watercolor pencils and our award-winning Watercolor Wonder Crayons.
• Pastels. Stampin' Pastels add soft color to your projects. These chalks are the most cost-effective way to get all of Stampin' Up!'s exclusive colors.
• Accent Inks. Use our selection of accent inks, including Shimmer Paint and Smooch Spritz, to add dimension and color to your projects.
• Stampin' Around cartridges. Choose between inked cartridges in some of our most popular colors (for both jumbo and regular wheels) or fill your own un-inked cartridge with your favorites.

You can find more information about these great products here.

Until we meet again...

What Do You Do When You Are Bored?

For some reason that is where I found myself today... bored!  It is a rare occurrence for me as I can always have something that needs doing.  I'm thinking it's because I've been fighting this cough and congestion and have just not wanted to do much of anything.

So, rather than fight it, I did what I usually do when I'm bored; I stuck my nose in one of my favorite books.  Reading is one of my favorite things to do and I've been doing it since I was five.  It's a series by my favorite author.  Her name is Dee Henderson and the series is The O'Malley Series.  I love suspense and mystery with just a wee bit of romance in the mix.  And, I love stories of faith.

There are six books in the series and I am now on number five.  You can find them at www.christianbook.com and I do highly recommend them.

Until we meet again...

3x3 Birthday For Him

One of the type of cards I like to make are 3x3.  They make a nice tag for a gift bag or present.  Right now I'm working on a set of all occasion ones and today's is a birthday card for him.  I got the idea from my December Stampin' Success Demonstrator Magazine.  I made several changes so it is not an exact duplicate.

Stamp Set:  Teeny Tiny Wishes; Ink:  Soft Suede; Card Stock:  Soft Suede, Very Vanilla, Well Worn Designer Series Paper, Neutrals Patterns Designer Series Paper Stacks; Accessories & Tools:  Word Window Punch, Modern Label Punch, 3/4" Circle Punch, Brights Brads Pumpkin Pie, Neutrals Brads Early Espresso, Stampin' Dimensionals, SNAIL Adhesive

There will be a total of eight cards, all for a different occasion and they'll come in their very own little box.  Once I have them all done, I'll show you the set.  It may take a while since I'm working on an upcoming class and that definitely takes priority.  I only have a 100 cards to prepare!

And, if you have any questions, just contact me and I'll be happy to find the answer for you.

My Digital Studio Express Free Trial

A FREE 30-day trial of My Digital Studio Express is now available.  You can give it a try for a whole month and, if you fall in love with it, you can purchase the downloadable or disc version of the software to continue using it.

Take your scrapbooking and card making to a whole new level.  Click on the image below to learn more about this great opportunity and to start your 30-day free trial.

If you have any questions, please contact me.  You can call or e-mail me.  All the information is at the top of my website.

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By signing up, you will receive:

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Don't wait!  Sign up today!  Just fill out the form on the upper left with your name and e-mail address and receive the next issue as soon as it is off the press!

Until we meet again...

Heard From The Heart Kindness

Since becoming a Stampin' Up!® demonstrator, I've met a lot of friends through our Stampin' Connection demonstrator only site.  One of those has become a frequent phone pal and we have some very good conversations.  Jean is full of ideas and information and I love visiting with her when we both have the time.  She recently blessed me with some product that I did not have in my supplies.  It was a wonderful and thoughtful thing for her to do.

Today's design is one dedicated to Jean and features all the goodies she sent me.  I love how the new Paper Doily Large Sizzlits Die cutout looks on this card.  My only contributions to the card are the card base and ink color.  I used Crumb Cake Card Stock for the base because I know that is Jean's favorite.

Stamp Set:  Heard From The Heart; Ink:  Rich Razzleberry; Card Stock:  Crumb Cake, Rich Razzleberry, Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper; Accessories & Tools:  Everyday Enchantment 1/8" Calypso Coral Organdy Ribbon, Everyday Enchantment 3/8" Calypso Coral Brad, Paper Doily Large Sizzlits Die

Thank you, Jean, for your generosity and for letting me bend your ear on those long phone calls.  I am blessed to call you friend.

You too can become a part of this great online community.  Sign up and join my team today!

Until we meet again...

A Day Of Rest

Although I'm taking the day off, due to feeling like my three sons are playing football in my head, I wanted to share this beautiful picture with you.  The spring blossoms are only one of the things I'm looking forward to when spring finally arrives.  I hope you enjoy as much as I am.

Until we meet again...

I Love Stampin' Up!'s Card Stock!

All you need to do is pick up a piece of Stampin' Up!® card stock and you know there is none other that can compare.  It's thick, it's dyed all the way through so there's no white core and their exclusive colors are gorgeous.  Our card stock is acid free and lignin free so it's great for scrapbooking.

Once you've gotten over how impressive our card stock is, you'll see that our other paper products are equally as exciting:

• Designer Series paper. Get exclusive artwork and colors in our Designer Series paper. These packages of 12" x 12" double-sided designs are a great choice for scrapbooking.
• On Board chipboard. We've got some of the best chipboard designs around. You'll have plenty of choices from our selection of alphabets and images no matter what your project entails.
• Envelopes. Now that your project is finished, share the love by sending it to someone--in one of our envelopes! You'll love our coordinating colors and exclusive flap design.
• There's more! You'll also want to check out our selection of cards & envelope sets, bags, calendars, Simply Sent card kits, and more. 

I know you will love the quality and color coordination Stampin' Up!® provides as much as I.  Order some today and see for yourself.

Until we meet again...

The Three Things I Love Most About Being A Stamping Business Owner

It would be so easy to keep you here all day talking about the many reasons I love being a stamping business owner.  But, I'll rein in my enthusiasm and just give you the three big ones.

1.  I love being my own boss.  I get to set my own hours.  I get to work when I want, which tends to be most of the time, but I know that should the need arise, I can be very flexible.

2.  I love being a Creative Coach.  I love helping others explore their own creativity.  There is great satisfaction and seeing someone's face light up when they realize they have made a beautiful card.

3.  I love the freedom of spending more time with my family.  Being an Independent Stampin' Up!® Demonstrator gives me the opportunity to work around my family's schedules.  I love being able to spend time with my grandchildren.

If you'd like to be your own boss and enjoy all these perks and more, contact me and let me show you how.  It's your first step to becoming a stamping business owner.

Until we meet again...

Family Photo Tray Wall Hanging

One of the things I love most in my home is what I call my family wall.  There you will find pictures of my family at various stages throughout their lives.  Most of them are of my sons and now include many with their families.  This is one of the gift items I have on display at the Crafters' Gift Boutique.  Where I have my photos, is where you would place your photos.  I love that memories were not made to be stored in books!

Stamp Sets:  Word Play, You Are Loved,  Tiny Tags, Always Thankful; Ink:  Soft Suede; Card Stock:  Spice Cake Designer Series Paper, Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper, Pool Party, More Mustard, Very Vanilla, Soft Suede, River Rock; Accessories & Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Top Note Die, Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die, Bird Builder Punch, Boho Blossoms Punch, Jewelry Tag Punch, Modern Label Punch, Decorative Label Punch, Jewels Basic Rhinestone, Jewels Basic Pearl, 3/8" Early Espresso Quilted Satin Ribbon, Dazzling Details, Stampin' Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots, SNAIL Adhesive, Brads Neutrals, Sponge Dauber, 1/2" Circle Punch, Paper-Piercing Tool; Other:  7gypies Artist Printers Tray (atc & photo display)

I do take custom orders for this hanging tray.  You chose the colors and the embellishments, such as punches, dies and ribbon, that you would like from those in my supplies.

Contact me if you would like to have a Family Photo Tray of your own.

Until we meet again...

The Swinging Bridge

Today I decided to take a day off from my usual posts and share something different with you.  It has been years since I've lived there but Iowa Falls will always hold a special spot in my heart.  This beautiful photo was taken last year in Iowa Falls.  It's a view of the Swinging Bridge which is a suspension bridge over the Iowa River.

I don't know who the photographer is but I wanted to share the beauty of my hometown with you.  Don't you think this is one beautiful winter scene?

Until we meet again...

Happy Valentine's Day

May love brighten your day.

Until we meet again...

Green Garden Razzleberry Birthday

And, here is the last of the three.  I was, again, browsing through some of my Stampin' Success demonstrator magazines and came across a layout for a card that I really liked.  I made a few changes and here is the finished card.

Stamp Sets:  Teeny Tiny Wishes, Itty Bitty Bits, Take It To Heart, Because I Care (retired); Ink:  Rich Razzleberry; Card Stock:  Garden Green, Rich Razzleberry, Whisper White, Brights Designer Series Paper Rich Razzleberry, Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper, Twitterpated Designer Series Paper; Accessories & Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Labels Collection Framelits Dies, Antique Brad

Wouldn't this make a great card for a guy?  Simple, sleek and very little frill.  You could also change the sentiment and use it for a Father's Day card or a thinking of you card.  It's fun to be able to use one card design for multiple occasions.

Until we meet again...

Wisteria Wonder Easter Dove

Here is another of the cards I made the other night.  It was the first time I'd used the new 3/8" Ruffled Ribbon in Wisteria Wonder.  It comes in all the new In Colors.  This is a very simple card and when I was thinking of adding embellishments, I realized that in it's simplicity, it says so much.  The ribbon and the little Jewels Basic Pearl were just right.

Stamp Set:  Easter Dove; Ink:  Wisteria Wonder; Card Stock:  Wisteria Wonder, Whisper White; Accessories & Tools:  Labels Framelits Dies, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, 3/8" Wisteria Wonder Ruffled Ribbon, Jewels Basic Pearls, stencil for ribbon

As you can see in the photo, the card front is the window to frame the sentiment.  The sentiment is stamped on a cutout using one of the Labels Collections Framelits Dies.  I think friends and family are going to get this one for their Easter cards this year.

Got a question?  Post it to the comments section and I'll have an answer for you within twenty-four hours.

Until we meet again...

Framelits Dies

One of the new products featured in the Occasions Mini Catalog is the Framelits Dies.  They are available in two collections; Hearts Collection and Labels Collection.  These Framelits are thin dies that allow you to see where to place the design before you cut.  So, you can stamp an image and know just where to place the die to get the perfect cut.  You can use a single die or layer them inside each other to create different sizes of frames.

The Labels Collection includes six dies and the approximate sizes (at the widest part) for the labels are:  2-15/16", 2-5/8", 3-1/4", 4", 4-11/16" and 5-7/16".  It coordinates with the Apothecary Art Stamp Set found on page 24 of the Occasions Mini Catalog.

The Hearts Collection includes six dies and the approximate sizes (at the widest part) are:  13/16", 1-5/8", 2-1/2", 3-3/8", 4-3/16" and 5-1/4".  It coordinates with the Take It To Heart Stamp Set found on page 14 of the Occasions Mini Catalog.

Just think of all the things you'll be able to do with them.  Perfectly place them on photos and stamped designs to see where the die will cut.  No more guessing.

To order yours, click on the Coffee Pot on the upper right.  It will take you right to my online store.

Until we meet again...

Join During Sale-A-Bration

Do you love crafting?  Have you ever considered earning money while doing something you enjoy?  And what about the convenience of setting your own hours? If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, then Stampin' Up!® is the perfect opportunity for you.

I love being a Creative Coach and sharing my love of stamping with others.  I truly enjoy meeting new people and sharing the Stampin' Up!® Opportunity with them.  I love being able to set my own schedule and having time to spend with my sons and their families.  And, having the chance to build a great business is definitely a plus.

Join during Sale-A-Bration, January 24-March 31, and get your Starter Kit for only $125. You'll also get a free paper pack or digital download every month for the rest of the year.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call or e-mail me.  My contact information is listed above or click on the Contact Me tab.

Until we meet again...

Embossed Easter Dove

Last night I was playing with the Labels Collection Framelits Dies just to see what different combinations I could come up with.  I made three different cards that I will share with you over the next few days.  None of them took a lot of time to make and a couple of them will be perfect for Make & Takes at future events I have scheduled.

Stamp Set:  Easter Dove; Ink:  None used; Card Stock:  Basic Black, Naturals White, Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper; Accessories & Tools:  Labels Collection Framelits Dies, VersaMark, Black Emboss Powder, Dazzling Details, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, heavy duty aluminum foil

This card was definitely a if I do this, what will it look like.  I took a piece of Naturals White and glued the foil to it, then ran it through the Big Shot using one of the Labels Collections Dies.  Because of the foil, the picture did not turn out very well and you can't see the Dazzling Details I used to frame the foil label.  I think I'll remake this one but without foil.  I like the simple design but I think it would look better without the foil.

Until we meet again...

Designer Series Paper Bliss

While looking through my demonstrator magazine, Stampin' Success, I came across a card that I like but didn't have all the elements.  So, I changed it up a bit and really like how it turned out.  I love how the colors Soft Suede and Pool Party compliment each other.  I'm hoping that the Attic Boutique will be continued in the new Annual Catalog when it premieres in June.

Stamp Set:  Bliss (retired); Ink:  Soft Suede;  Card Stock:  Soft Suede, Attic Boutique Designer Series Paper, Very Vanilla; Accessories & Tools:  Curly Label Punch, Top Note Bigz Die, Jewels Basic Pearls, Pool Party Seam Binding, Stampin' Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots, Big Shot

Leave a comment and let me know what you think.  On Friday, I'll have a drawing and the winner will get the card.  I'll post the winner's name on Saturday morning.

Until we meet again...

Send A Friend A Card Day

Although it's not an official holiday, it is on the calendar.  What better way to remember a friend than by sending them a handmade card full of love.

Last week my llama group finished up another swap and all of the cards I've received so far have been great!  I'm sharing my card here today since it fits right in with the theme of today's post.  It's a clean and simple design but I really like the colors in this one.  The Twitterpated Designer Series Paper is fast becoming some of my favorite paper to use.

Stamp Set:  My Friend; Ink:  Night of Navy; Card Stock:  Calypso Coral, Twitterpated Designer Series Paper; Accessories & Tools:  Blossom Punch, Mini Brads, Adorning Accents Edgelits Die

I'm thinking I'm also going to use this one for my Make and Take for my Customer Appreciation Tea that's in the works.

Until we meet again...

Hangin' With My Gnomies

Yesterday was my granddaughter, Charissa's, birthday.  I sent her a card but didn't take a picture of it before putting it in the envelope and mailing it.  Once she gets it, Wayne, my oldest son and her stepfather, is supposed to take a picture of it so I can show you the card I made her.

In the meantime,  I've got a card that was just plain fun to make.  Our Gnome Sweet Gnome Stamp Set is really growing on me and the possibilities are limitless.  Along with the Gnomenclature Stamp Set, you have the perfect pair.

Stamp Sets:  Gnome Sweet Gnome, Gnomenclature; Inks:  Early Espresso, Pool Party Stampin' Write Marker, Rich Razzleberry Stampin' Write Marker, Island Indigo Stampin' Write Marker, StazOn Forest Green, StazOn Timber Brown; Card Stock: Early Espresso, Pool Party, Naturals White; Accessories & Tools:  Linen Thread, Modern Label Punch, Word Window Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals, Jewels Basic Rhinestones (colored with permanent marker)

Although you can't see it in the photo, the Linen Thread extends beyond the top of the card about two inches.  I guess I thought it looked more like hanging with the extension.  I'm not exactly sure why.

Until we meet again...

I Can't Believe I Did That!

What, you ask?  I forgot to tell all of you about the FREE 30-day trial of My Digital Studio Express!  That's right, a free trial.  Just go to my Online Store, enter item #129600 and you can start having all the fun getting acquainted with My Digital Studio Express.

With the FREE 30-day trial, you’ll get:
* Full access to the software at NO COST for 30 days.
* Full design functionality.
* Exclusive artwork that comes with My Digital Studio Express—that’s $50 worth of content!
* Opportunity to purchase additional downloads from designer templates to stamp brush sets--and everything in between.
* Access to our professional print services.

So, don't miss out on a chance to try the My Digital Studio Express.  Download it today and find out just how much fun it is.

Until we meet again...

Birthday! Birthday! Who Has A Birthday?

Actually, that would be my grandson, Zac.  He is the only grandchild born on my mother's birthday.  She was so excited about that and was tickled to have one of her great-grandchildren born on her birthday.

Zac is turning seven today and he is quite the little man.  Smart, funny and just plain adorable.  I won't be able to share in his day as he and his family are out of town for a few days.  But he'll have a card waiting for him along with dinner out with Grandma.  I really look forward to those times of one-on-one with my grandchildren.

The card I have for him is one I made a few months ago at one of my local demonstrator meetings as a Make and Take.  I love the idea of the balloons.  It's bright and happy and I'm just know he is going to like it.

It has been long enough ago that I can't remember all the elements to the card.  I know that the stamp sets used are now retired.  I will continue to look for my notes and once found, I'll add that information.

Until we meet again...

Are You Ready For A Creative Connection?

Then, now is the time to schedule your Workshop. During Sale-A-Bration not only can you receive a shopping tote, you can get a special hostess bundle that is available only during Sale-A-Bration.

Here is what is included in the Free Hostess Bundle:

• Fresh Vintage stamp set (wood- or clear-mount)
• Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper
• Everyday Enchantment Ribbon & Brad Pack

You can find the products on pages 6-7 of the Sale-A-Bration.

Take a look at my calendar to see which day works best for you, then contact me to schedule your workshop!

Until we meet again...

Valentine Treat Box

Yes, I'm still making Valentine cards and gifts.  These are for my grandsons Zac and Nic to share with classmates on Valentine's Day.  They are quick and easy to make and the boys thought they would be just great.

Stamp Set:  Teeny Tiny Wishes; Ink:  Riding Hood Red; Card Stock:  Riding Hood Red, Melon Mambo, Melon Mambo, Whisper White; Accessories & Tools:  Full Heart Punch, Mini Glue Dots, brads

And, there you have the last of my Valentine projects.  Now I'm ready to move on.  I have a new stamp I've not had a chance to use and it is going to make some beautiful Easter cards.  Stay tuned for future developments!

Until we meet again...

Just For You Valentine

And, here we have our final card made in class.  Because of the time limit, I had the cutouts done ahead of time but they did all of the punching.  I took the dies along to show them how each image was made.  Each guest left with my schedule and know that they are welcome at the Stamping Cafe to use the product for themselves.  I'm looking forward to having them stop by and using some of the product I wasn't able to take with me.

Stamp Set:  Teeny Tiny Wishes; Ink:  Wisteria Wonder; Card Stock:  Wisteria Wonder, Very Vanilla, Lucky Limeade, Cherry Cobbler, Pink Pirouette; Accessories & Tools:  Little Leaves Sizzlets Die, Hearts Collection Framelits Dies, Jewels Basic Pearl, Big Shot

Some made it a Valentine card, some made it a birthday card and some made it a Mother's Day card.  I think this was my favorite one of all of them.  The inspiration came from a design I saw while browsing and knew the class would appreciate it, too.  I don't remember where I saw it but I do thank the person who inspired it.

Until we meet again...