Straight from the Office

Up, Up, and Away!

2011-10-15T13:17:00.002-06:00

Another Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has come and went…and what a beautiful sight it was – as always. The week started at a friend’s home with a front-row seat to the Mass Assencion (without the lines and crowds of the event itself). One couldn’t ask for a better way to see such a great sight: spending it with great people, enjoying fantastic conversation, and enjoying an amazing breakfast. Beautifu!

During the Fiesta, I was able to capture a photo right as the sun was poking up over the Sandia Mountains and I was inspired. Though I had already made a card for my Card Club’s challenge, an idea came to me:

I love this card. The card is just a white piece of paper with a hole cut from the front panel and then sponged with a plethora of different colors and then popped with hot air balloons…simple and lovely. I added a bit of thread as a throw-back to the ropes and strings used in ballooning.

At the end of the week I found myself at the office on an early Saturday morning. Usually I would not be happy to be there (and if I had a choice, I wouldn’t have been there that morning either), but being there gave me the opportunity to see the balloons again since my office is just a couple blocks from the Fiesta field.

All in all, it was a great Fiesta!

Recipe: Whisper White, Basic Black, and Poppy Parade cardstock; So Saffron, More Mustard, Peach Parfait, Calypso Coral, Poppy Parade, Bashful Blue, Marina Mist, and Not Quite Navy ink; linen thread; sponges.

An Initial Attempt

2011-10-08T15:24:00.011-06:00

First of all, I need to apologize for the image...I can't get it rotated upright.

For Card Club this month we were challenged to create a card using a template created by the operators over at Stampin 411. Since I knew how busy the forthcoming weeks were going to be, I jumped right on it. The template called for a square card with a large circle and some type of division across the center. I don’t know why, but knocking one inch of the long end of a card makes the plane so much more difficult to plan. I decided to make the circle front and center by finding the perfect section of patterned paper and rim it with some ruffled ribbon (I’ve only tried it a few times – maybe after a few times more I may be able to make it presentable); duplicating the ribbon and adding a coordinating bow followed naturally. So, now I had a frilly circle, a ribbon, and a bow on a blank piece of cardstock; well, that just wouldn’t do. One of the things I love about Stampin’ Up!’s Designer Series Paper is that each “series” comes in a pack; I pulled out the package again and saw so many various coordinating patterns which would have been excellent choices. However, my final decision wasn’t in the pack, it was in my scrap pile. I used more of the green and the reverse razzleberry pattern as well.

I thought it turned out well and I was going to use it. Unfortunately, after a few days, though I still liked it, I was inspired to create something different.

Stay tuned….

Recipe: Pocket Full of Posies DSP; Rich Razzelberry and Night of Navy cardstock; Rich Razzelberry polka-dot and 1/8” taffeta ribbon; 2¾” circle punch; dimentionals.

Amazing, Awesome, Talented…You

2011-10-06T05:00:00.001-06:00

This card is one of a kind, just as the woman for whom it was created.

This plan for this card was very simple: lots of flowers and lots of green. Utilizing a monochromatic green as the background of this card (matted with white and green to offset) left the wind open for a plethora of flower choices. Honestly, at this point I didn’t know what to do next – in what direction to proceed.

All I knew what I wanted flowers. I sorted through my paper and decided on five different possibilities for flowers. Still unaware of what flowers, what specific colors, or what design I wanted to use, I just started punching – punching flowers of different shapes, sizes, and colors. I shaped the pieces of paper flowers to give them dimension and added pearls to each center (thinking that those which I didn’t use for this project could be used on another). What do flowers need? Leaves. I used other punches to add leaves to each blossom; as I attached each leaf, I put the completed blossoms into a small pile off to the side (which just so happened to be on top of the green paper). When I finished the last one and tossed it into the pile, I looked over and saw the pile of flowers down the side of the green…I liked it. With a little manipulation and a fitting sentiment the card was complete.

I love it - fitting since I also love the woman for whom it was created.
Happy Retirement!

Recipe: Perfect Words stamp set; Old Olive, Whisper White, Pear Pizazz, Concord Crush, Sahara Sand, Daffodil Delight, Poppy Parade, and Pool Party cardstock; Old Olive Designer Series Paper; Old Olive ink; Three Flower, Itty Bitty, Perfect Petal, and 1¼” Square punches; Basic Jewels: Pearls; mini glue dots.

Time Well Spent

2011-10-04T05:00:00.001-06:00

Once in a while I am able to combine all (if not all, then definitely most) of my favorite techniques into one project; this is just that instance.

Pattern Paper: three different patterned paper are combined in this card: I like how the square pattern offsets the roundness of the flowers; the stripe pattern could mimic a picket fence; the flower pattern could be the sky with birds.

Punches: so many were used in creating this card – all of which work together cohesively.

Sponging: adding a sponged edge to all the pieces unifies and softens the edges.

Accents: the layered buttons accent the flowers nicely and the touch of linen thread finishes them off. Additionally, utilizing dimension creates interest and depth.

There isn’t much else to say besides: I love this card!

Recipe: Time Well Spend stamp set; Cherry Cobbler, Mellow Moss, and So Saffron cardstock; Washington Apple DSP; Circle Scallop, oval Scallop, Small Oval, 1 3/8” Circle, Scallop Border, and Build a Blossom punches; Subtles, Brights, and Regals Designer Buttons; linen thread, dimensionals, mini glue dots, sponges.

Transformation

2011-10-01T05:00:00.000-06:00

Of all crafting tools, my favorite would have to be punches. They are easy to use, add dimension, and create the perfect accent to a project. More than ever, what I love to do most with punches is to transform them into something different. Whether it is using ovals and circles to create an owl card or recreating the Twelve Days of Christmas, punches can be used to create so many different things.

In this card, a scallop-edged square was transformed into a funky three-petal flower. Accented by other punches, shapes, accents and color, the flowers add just the right touch and pop of fun to this card.

Recipe: Well Scripted stamp set; Baja Breeze, Wild Wasabi, Whisper White, and Crumb Cake cardstock; Baja Breeze and Wild Wasabi ink; Scallop Square, Wide Oval, Boho Blossoms, and Modern Label punches; Basic Jewels: Pearls; sponge dauber; sponges; paper piercer; dimensionals, hobby blade.

The Time Has Come

2011-09-29T05:00:00.002-06:00

I cannot even tell you how long I have been waiting to make this card; well, not this exact card precisely, but the opportunity to create these adorable strawberries and show them off in a “delicious” card. What do you think? Don’t they look good enough to eat? I have to say, there is nothing to bring one out of the gloom of a rainy day than a reminder of the sweetness of Summer.

These strawberries are used using a large heart and topped with a five-point flower, trimmed and layered. However, having seen these strawberries being created, what I feel puts the cuteness factor over the top are the small blossoms. Now, I know that the strawberry blossom turns into the strawberry itself, but I just couldn’t help myself here.

Aren’t they delicious?

Recipe: Just Believe and Swirls & Curls stamp set; mellow Moss, Whisper White, and Poppy Parade cardstock; Poppy Parade DSP; Polka Dot embossing folder; Mellow Moss ink; subtle brads; Three Flower, Five-point flower, Heart, and 1/16” punches; mini glue does.

Kindness Knows No Bounds

2011-09-26T05:00:00.000-06:00

After a couple not so successful attempts at a beautiful card, I feel that I finally hit one out of the park. One of my favorite techniques is tone-on-tone, and, even though this card uses several different colors, I think it is a good example.

Instead of using two different colors for the flowers, I used a technique which utilized the second “generation” of a stamp image. For the solid color in the flower, I inked the stamp and then stamped it onto a scratch piece of paper to get the dark image off the stamp and then, without re-inking it, stamped it again onto the white paper. This makes the color a lighter shade, yet the same hue. Then, then accent portion is stamped over the first directly from the ink pad. I love the look.

Some perfect patterned paper, offsetting mats, a few grounding stamps, and some appropriate coordinating buttons is all this card needed to take it over the top. I love it…and hope you do too.

Recipe: Build a Blossom and Heard from the Heart stamp set; Lucky Limeade, Whisper White, So Saffron, Bashful Blue, and Perfect Plum card stock; Greenhouse Gala DSP; So Saffron, Bashful Blue, Perfect Plum, and Lucky Limeade ink; size B clear block; Bitty Buttons; Blossoms Petals and Perfect Flower punches.

Mixing Patterns

2011-09-24T05:00:00.001-06:00

Have you seen the not-so-new Take a Spin stamp set? I have an issue with this set: I love it but cannot figure out a good way to “use” it. I have only felt super successful once (when I used it as the center of a flower) and as you can see – this is not that time. Other than that one use, how else can these spinners be used in a way which doesn’t make them look odd or out of place?

What do I like about this card? Mixing patterns is one of my favorite things to do – polka dots, toile, floral, and geometric…I love them all. By sealing them all together with the Square Lattice embossing folder I think they make one cohesive element of on this card.

Recipe: Take a Spin stamp set; Chocolate Chip, Close to Cocoa, and Natural Confetti cardstock; 2 1/2?” Circle punch; metal spinner; Chocolate Chip DSP; jumbo eyelets; ¼” Ivory taffeta ribbon; Square Lattice embossing folder.

A Brief Departure

2011-09-22T05:00:00.001-06:00

Even now, when I look at this card, I am pleased and surprised that I made it. I saw a sample of a card at my sister’s and enjoyed the layout and style of it; I decided that I would attempt to duplicate it.

The patterned pater is from the new package of designer series paper from Stampin’ Up! called Domestic Goddess. Initially, I was not interested in this set of paper, but after looking at the patterns more closely (and individually as opposed to as a set) I realized that they are quite lovely: a subtle marble pattern, a light plaid pattern, a delicate flower pattern, and more.

I picked my color palate (another departure for me) from these patterns. I also utilized My Digital Studio to alter the two stamp images to suite this project (in both size and color). Overall, I enjoy the outcome of this card. Particularly, it was my first chance at using the new ruffled ribbon – and it won’t be my last.

Recipe: Define Your Life (MDS) and Watercolor Trio (MDS) stamp sets; Pool Part, Whisper White, and Calypso Coral cardstock; Domestic Goddess DSP; 1/8” Corner Punch; Pool Part ruffled ribbon; dimensionals.

What a Difference a Pearl Makes....

2011-09-19T05:00:00.001-06:00

This is a hybrid card utilizing both digital imaging and “live” accents. The template of this card is not one which I would have put together on my own, but was “nudged” to try it by a fantastic card from my sister’s place. This card also gave me the opportunity to use a plethora of decorative pearls; though I love the pop which rhinestones bring, sometimes they are too sparkly for a card. In these circumstances, substituting a pearl for a rhinestone is the perfect solution.

I also layered some ribbon. Unfortunately, I don’t think it was very successful. How should I have done it? What would have worked better? Leave me a comment and let me know your thoughts.

Recipe: Flower Fancy, Oval All, and vine (MDS) stamp sets, Old Olive, Night of Navy, and Whisper White card stock; Night of Navy and Old Olive ink; Small Oval punch; 1/2” Old Olive Satin and 1/8” Night of Navy Taffeta ribbon; Jewel Basics: Pearls; dimensionals.

Less is More

2011-09-16T05:00:00.002-06:00

Here is my first example of inspiration in action. I love the simplicity of this card – the pops of purple against the white plane. Add in the perfect embossing and a beautiful card emerges. As far as the sentiment is concerned, I have seen this stenciling technique on several different projects around the “crafting circuit” and have wanted to give it a try. The heart was the perfect shape – I was thrilled how perfectly the sentiment fit (even the curve from the “v” follows the contour). I think it was the perfect way to add just a little more of the Sahara Sand pop of color.

Recipe: Well Scripted stamp set; Elegant Bouquet embossing folder; Sahara Sand, Concord Crush, Whisper White card stock; Heart, Three Hearts, and Itty Bitty Shapes punches; Jewels: Basic Pearls; sponge; mini glue dots.

Back in the Saddle Again…

2011-09-15T17:13:00.000-06:00

Take a visit to my sister (chalked full of more lovely card/crafting projects than one could think of) and mix in the need for an outlet and what do you get? NEW CARDS! Stay tuned for some new “lovlies” on the way.

Drumroll Please….

2011-08-25T01:00:00.000-06:00

Though I do love orange (the color, not the “animal”…oh, I guess I do like the “animal” too *wink*), that is not correct. If you have seen my office, then you would probably guess that it is blue – and you would also be incorrect. Here it is:

YELLOW

I love yellow; it is my absolutely favorite color in the entire world!

Now that we have gotten off on a tangent, it is time for me to fill you in on how this all works together. Remember yesterday when I said I found some inspiration at my local crafting store? Well, I was walking down the paper isle (paper pads were 50% off, so I couldn’t pass it up) and there, among all the flowers and shapes and baby and holiday and so many other miscellaneous and unappealing to me at that time stacks of paper was a gem:

Lemon Flower Stack – various 12x12 patterned papers utilizing black, white, yellow, and green colors with some accents of silver glitter and embossing. I snatched it up and vowed to get back to crafting.

Stay tuned for some of my Lemon Flower projects.

It Doesn’t Take Much…

2011-08-24T02:00:00.001-06:00

Well, as you know, I have been neglecting my little blog for a little while now. As I walked through a local craft store over my lunch hour today I found it – the perfect inspiration to give me a swift kick in the fanny. Yes, I know you are wondering what this clever crafting concoction is, but you are just going to have to wait a bit.

As you may or may not know, my favorite color combination is…you guessed it…black and white. Look at them there…perfectly offsetting each other…like peanut butter and jelly…like ham and eggs…like cookies and milk (and yes…I am a little hungry, but that’s not the point)…. Now, what could make it better? One more pop of color…what could it be…what could it be?

If you think you know, then leave me a comment. Check back tomorrow and see if you are right.

A Dilemma and Collaboration

2011-08-02T21:34:00.001-06:00

I needed to make some Thank You cards (“some” meaning “lots”) which creates a big dilemma: how do I stay true to my style of creating yet tone it down enough to create several duplicate cards?

I had an idea as to what I wanted to do. This idea was inspired by a beautiful card I saw on the Inspiration in Action blog. Gretchen used the new large doily stamp from Stampin’ Up! to create a stunning card. From this card I gathered inspiration for the color combination as well as for the layout. If I had it my way (and lots and lots of time), then I would make this exact card fifty times, but that wasn’t too practical for my current project. What to do? What to do?

Lucky for me, my mother came to visit this past weekend and I took advantage of her creative eye (and fingers and super skill with MDS). With her great help, I was able to nail down a design that not only reflects my inspiration card, but also was practical to replicate many times.

I haven’t used Stampin’ Up!’s My Digital Studio (MDS) very much, so I really leaned on my mother’s skills with it. I really enjoyed how much it streamlined the creation of this project. First, instead of stamping one hundred and fifty petals, I simply printed them out on my color printer and punched them out. Second, I was able to find the perfect sentiment and customize the size to fit my card. Finally, I was able to customize the polka-dot background image with Lovely Lilac (a retired color for which I still have cardstock, but not any coordinating DSP).

I really like the final version of this card; I may even duplicate it even more with various color combos…one to fit which ever mood I may be in at the time I give one away. Who knows, you may even get one….

Recipe: Watercolor Trio, Build a Blossom, and Hip and Handsome Overlays digital stamp sets; Concord Crush, Lovely Lilac (this is a retired SU color, but it is similar to the new Wisteria Wonder), Whisper White, and Certainly Celery card stock; blossoms petal, 1/8” circle, and Itty Bitty Shapes Pack punches; two way glue pen; mini glue dots; My Digital Studio.

Who can count the Bs?

2011-07-26T23:54:00.003-06:00

Our Creative Corner has done it again – another exciting challenge. This time around the challenge was to create using “All the B’s.” As examples, Sarah listed black, bling, buttons, and bows. What do you think of my entry? Can you recognize all of the “B” items?

I’ll give you a moment to check….

Have you got them all?

Ok, here they are:

Black
Button
Bow
Bling
(these four were on Sarah’s list of possibilities)
Birthday
Bumps (referring to the heat embossing)
Burgundy
Blow out your candles (part of the stamp)
Binding (since the ribbon wraps three layers together)
Bam! (that is for the “different” card opening…with contrasting DSP inside)

I think that is it; did I miss any?

(I apologize for the quick post and the not so great photo; add to the list “blurry and bloodshot” to describe my eyes and “bed” as my next destination.)

Recipe: Borderline and Take a Spin stamp sets; Basic Black, Whisper White, and Bravo Burgundy cardstock; Night and Day Designer Series Paper; Burgundy dotted paper; Versamark ink; black embossing powder; Boho Blossoms, Perfect Blossoms, and 1” circle punches; narrow black grosgrain ribbon, Bravo Burgundy Stampin’ Write Marker; Regals Buttons; Rhinestone brads; Game Spinners; Jewels: Basic Rhinestones; dimentionals; mini glue dots.

A Little Birthday Inspiration

2011-07-25T06:39:00.005-06:00

My brother-in-law just had a birthday (Happy Birthday Liang!) and I was trying to figure out what kind of birthday card to make for him. I remember seeing a color challenge that included two of Stampin’ Up!’s new In Colors, Island Indigo and Pool Party, and grey; I thought this would be perfectly suited for his card.

As I thought about which stamp set to use, I came across the best dog set…unfortunately I don’t know what it’s called or from what company…and knew it was perfect. At this point I wasn’t sure about much else besides the colors and the stamps. I remembered that my sister sent me some pictures (she was happy with my bedding-to-card pictures and thought I could draw inspiration from her pictures) so I looked through them and think I found the perfect match:

I like the blocking of the rug and how the white of her dog, Sally (not Daisy, right Eileen?), pops against the colors. I used that idea for the format of my card. With a little help from SU’s My Digital Studio, I was able to find the perfect sayings and get them onto paper (in the proper color…I love that) and work them in. I also love the manner which the card opens - using the dog's nose to hold it closed...love it:

After completing the card and looking over it next to the picture I realized that I could make one more comparison: texture. I added the diamond plating embossing to the blocking section of the card to add an additional element of interest/texture, but can now see that they could resemble the toy cars which are also placed on the rug. Who knew, right?

How else do you think the toy cars could have been “worked in” to the card?

Recipe: Ruff (since I don’t know the real name) stamp set; Island Indigo and Pool Party patterned paper; Basic Grey, Pool Party, and Whisper White cardstock; grey textured paper; Island Indigo classic ink; Versamark ink; white embossing powder; diamond plate embossing folder; sponges; My Digital Studio; dimentionals.

Copenhagen to the Rescue

2011-07-20T05:00:00.000-06:00

As if on cue, Our Creative Corner ended my search for some new inspiration. Since I chose to search for new inspiration, I sat down at the computer to see what I could find. And there it was – Our Creative Corner’s Copenhagen Challenge: draw inspiration from any/all pictures posted of Copenhagen AND not to use any pre-printed patterned paper (If you have read my blog more than a couple time, then you know how much of a challenge the last stipulation is since I LOVE PATTERNED PAPER). Above are the four pictures which were provided.

Have you figured out which picture I chose as my inspiration? That’s right (I’m assuming, of course, that you got it right…you guys are so smart), it is this picture:

This interpretation of the picture of the waterway (if you know what it is, then please let me know; it would help “round out” my story) is pretty literal, but with a few “Nichole” flairs thrown in:

Color: I picked out the colors of some of the row buildings along the left side of the picture. I love how that one blue building (at least it appears blue to me) just pops against the earth-tones of the other buildings. I mixed these colors with the grey of the boats and shadows and the water reiterated my blue choice.

Shape: I love how the row of buildings create a “soldier-like” feel to the picture; I wanted to bring that into my card. I decided to extend these the full height of the card (as opposed to cutting them short…maybe adding roofs….). Also, though I am sure that the buildings are square, with the angle of the photo and the shadows created, they almost appear to be slanted slightly; I brought this slightly askew feeling to the “buildings” on my card. Finally, I tried to mimic the angle of the waterway/pier with the rolled grey paper and “peek-a-boo” blue in the lower right corner of my card.

Accent: the white window casings add so much interest to the photo that I knew I wanted to tie that into my card as well. I have had these vanilla tag holders for a while (maybe a year, I think) and have never used them. I was glad when I tested them with my card and saw how they added just the right abstract windows to my buildings.

Texture: I applied two different textures to this project. The first is sponging (again – LOVE IT); I added grey sponging to the outer edges of my buildings as well as the edges of my mats. The end result is more of an aged and muted look which is exactly what I wanted. The other is the Sunburst embossing pattern along the buildings; I think it adds just the right amount of interest without detracting from the other elements of the card (almost mimicking the ripples in the water).

What do you think? Did I do the photo justice? How would you interpret this photo differently?
I’ve never been to Copenhagen, but after emersing myself in this one picture, I would love to see more (and maybe, one day, visit).

Recipe: Edgy Eloquence stamp set; Going Grey, Bashful Blue, Cajun Craze, More Mustard, and Daffodil Delight cardstock; Going Grey classic ink; Hodgepodge Hardware: Stylized Vanilla; Sunburst embossing folder; sponge; inspirations courtesy of Copenhagen via Our Creative Corner.

Final Bedding Inspiration

2011-07-19T17:23:00.002-06:00

So, I was recently told that I get my inspiration from the strangest places (thanks ladies…). Agreed – who would have thought that I would get inspiration from bedding sets? This is my last “inspired by bedding” card for you (well, for now…until I get a new catalog in about a week). This is my favorite of all; can you guess why?

For starters, I love the colors…or lack thereof…of black and white. The contrast is amazing and, as anyone who knows me can attest, seldom does a day go by when I am not sporting both black and white in my attire (…and have you seen my craft studio…hello…!). Another reason I love this card is the style: it is very, what I want to call, “punchy” with the layout and the color blocking. This is very much my signature. The final reason I like this card is because it brings together various patterned papers – oh, how I love a good pattern.

Do you have a favorite color combination?
Seriously, I think black/white runs my life: at my office, in my studio, on my clothing, everywhere!

Recipe: Thank You Kindly and Ornate Blossom stamp sets; Whisper White and Basic Black cardstock; white and black embossing powder; Versamark ink; Night and Day designer series paper; silver mirrored cardstock; 1¼ 1 ½ 1¾ circle punches; dimensionals.

Pattern vs. Texture

2011-07-17T10:23:00.004-06:00

This is always a struggle for me: should I use a patterned paper or should I add some texture; does anyone else have this dilemma?

This was amplified when I was looking through a catalog (click here to read about my experience with the catalog) and saw this Chenille bedding:

My first thought (in my attempt to transform this bedding into a card) was that it would make a wonderful monochromatic card: layers of paper with pops of the butterflies. So, I looked at my paper and though, “Which color should I pick?” After looking through all of them, I realized that yellow would be the perfect color (which is probably why they chose to highlight the yellow bedding in the catalog). I gathered up the supplies and then was faces with that same issue: do I use patterned paper to create the layered effect or do I emboss?
Since I couldn’t decide between the two, I chose to make one of each and see what you, my wonderful blog readers, thought. The card on the left is the patterned paper and the card on the right is the texture.

Which do you prefer: Pattern or Texture?

Recipe: So Saffron cardstock; So Saffron Designer Series Paper; vellum; So Saffron and More Mustard classic ink; Leafy Branch and Perfect Polka Dot embossing folders; Butterfly punch; Jewels: Basic Rhinestones; sponges; dimentionals.

Sources of Inspiration

2011-07-14T23:07:00.003-06:00

About a year ago I purchased some bamboo curtain panels for my kitchen from an online store; ever since, I receive their bi-weekly catalog like clockwork. Typically, it gets tossed directly into the recycling. However, before repeating the process upon receiving it earlier in the week, I browsed through it (making sure there wasn’t anything new since two weeks ago) and realized that inspiration can come from anywhere…yes, even this catalog I get every two weeks.

This card was inspired by this bedding set (and yes, it is 40% off and comes in sage green and caramel as well):

I attempted to mimic the pleating on the left-side of the card panel, but it did not come together as I had hoped. Instead, I scored the cardstock in alternative directions and I like the overall effect (click on the image to get a better view of the detail). I also love the pink/brown/white color combination (each time I see it I am reminded of my brother-in-law’s wedding…it was gorgeous).

Lucky for you, I will be sharing more of my “annoying catalog” inspiration over the next few days. Come back and see.

Recipe: Simple Friendship stamp set (via My Digital Studio to customize the size/color); Blushing Bride, Early Espresso, and Whisper White cardstock; Itty Bitty Shapes punch; Jewels: Basic Pearls; Crumb Cake Stampin’ Write marker; mini glue dots; bone folder.

A First Attempt

2011-07-08T07:28:00.003-06:00

If you have been around the “crafting” block, then you have seen that ribbon scrunching (well, I’m calling it that – there may be a more technical name for it out there) is just about everywhere. I hadn’t tried it before, so here is my first attempt – how’d I do? I can say one thing: it is a lot more difficult than it looks (especially if you are as meticulous as I am about it being “just right”…).

What else do I like about this card? The accents on the animals (shocker, right?). I saw similar cards floating around cyber-crafting-space and thought they were cute, but flat (and I mean that in the best possible way). I was sorting through some of my accessories, to fill my new Stampin’ Up accent holder, and these two corduroy buttons were side-by-side and I thought, “That would be a cute lion head,” and voila! The stamp set came out and the hunt was on to find accents to fit a couple more animals and the rest, as they say, was history.

I LOVE THIS CARD!!!

Let me know if you love it too.

Recipe: Fox & Friends, Just Believe, and Smarty Pants stamp sets; Chocolate Chip, Crumb Cake, and Whisper White card stock; Pumpkin Pie, Daffodil Delight, and Crumb Cake classic ink; Versamark ink; Pumpkin Pie, Daffodil Delight, Crumb Cake, and Chocolate Chip stampin’ write marker; Perfect Accent – Pearls; corduroy buttons; large grommet; Boho Blossoms punch; Chocolate Chip wide striped ribbon; paper snips; Sticky Strip; mini glue dots; stampin’ dimentionals; Crop-o-dile; sponge.

The "Vacation" is Over

2011-07-07T22:38:00.003-06:00

If this is the first time you have visited my blog, then Welcome and a big Thanks for taking the time. If you have visited before, then Welcome Back!

After an overly extended break from blogging (and, unfortunately, paper crafting as well), I am glad to say that I am making time again to do what I love: creating and sharing with friends.

What better way to get back in the swing of things than with a crafting challenge? I can’t think of any. However, Sarah over at Our Creative Corner had a different idea in mind. Instead of their scheduled challenge, this time around they sent out a call to fill open Design Team positions. The only stipulation: make it your style!

How am I to take all that I love about crafting and deliver it in a single entry? Well, it took a little time (and much ink on my fingers), but I think I have it right. I definitely gravitate toward beautiful paper, inventive and unique punches, and accents which add just the right extra touch – I think this card brings them all together. The layout is fairly basic (another signature aspect of my crafting), but the various components help elevate the overall card: punches “fused” with paper utilizing the Perfect Polka-dots embossing folder, layering of different patterns and textures, sponging (if you have followed my blog, then you know that I LOVE TO SPONGE) to offset the edges, and buttons, pearls and thread to take it over the top.

If you have a few extra moments, browse through some of my past posts and let me know what you think of my previous projects.

Thanks for stopping by.
I’ll be back soon!

Recipe: Say it with Scallops! Stamp set; Natural and Early Espresso cardstock; Blueberry Crisp Designer Series Paper; Early Espresso and Marina Mist classic ink; Boho Flowers, Perfect Petals, Blossom Petal, 1¼“ Square, and Scallop Square punches; Basic Jewels – Pearls; Subtles and Neutrals buttons; Linen thread; Cuddlebug and Perfect Polka-dot embossing folder; sponge; stampin’ dimentionals; mini glue dots.

On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me twelve drummers drumming.

2010-12-24T05:00:00.000-07:00

On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love sent to me eleven pipers piping.

2010-12-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

On the tenth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me ten lords a-leaping.

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On the ninth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me nine ladies dancing.

2010-12-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me eight maids a-milking.

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On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love sent to me seven swans a-swimming.

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On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me six geese a-laying.

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On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me five golden rings.

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On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me four calling birds.

2010-12-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

On the third day of Christmas, my true love sent to me three French hens.

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On the second day of Christmas, my true love sent to me two turtle doves.

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On the first day of Christmas, my true love sent to me a partridge in a pear tree.

2010-12-13T21:13:00.002-07:00

The Twelve Days of Christmas

2010-12-13T21:10:00.003-07:00

To bring us through the hustle and bustle of the Holiday season, I have prepared The Twelve Days of Christmas utilizing Christmas memories from last year. I hope you enjoy learning about my family over the next few days as well as seeing all that can be created.

The inspiration for this came from a wonderful blogger, Heather; I enjoy following her blog and learning so many new techniques and ideas from her. My tree trimmings and gift wrapping were all done in an olive/celery/chocolate palate; I utilized the same with my project to finish off the theme. Please, let me know what you think.

Enjoy

Dry Embossing

2010-11-13T04:00:00.001-07:00

Another fantastic technique is Dry Embossing. What exactly is it? Embossing creates a raised image and the ‘dry’ version is accomplished by actually manipulating the paper so that there is an impression. I found an excellent instructional site for basic dry embossing techniques at Amp-Your-Stamps. This site reviews, for the most part, the basic stylus and template method of dry embossing. And though this method is very helpful at times, there have been many ‘advancements’ in the world of dry embossing.

I think the most influential of these advancements has been the onset of ‘embossing machines’ (many companies promote their own version of this) which makes the process of dry embossing a snap. For the most part, there is a pre-designed impression plate/folder which is combined with the desired paper and ‘run through’ the machine – ta da: out the other side is a perfectly embossed paper. In addition to using the pre-designed templates, custom templates can be made to suit any design need (click here to see how a daisy template was created/used).

I love the way dry embossing gives a subtle accent to a project – subtle in design, but huge in impact. Here is a baby card which was created by my sister, Rachel. I love it (I got it in a plethora of colors, but the template is the same in all of them). If you look at the picture and allow your eyes to go out of focus, then you can see that the layout/design is very basic, but the addition of the dry embossed ‘baby themed word collage’ on the background paper takes this card over the top. This is an excellent example of how dry embossing can be used to make an impact on a card.

Old accents in a new way

2010-11-12T04:00:00.000-07:00

Who doesn’t love glitter? Though we don’t always admit it, I think we all love something with a little sparkle in it, am I right? I learned a new method which allows the most crisp strip of glitter (as seen in this card - click it to learn more): apply a section of double-sided tape and cover with glitter – discarding the excess – and there you have it.

Not Always a Card

2010-11-11T04:00:00.000-07:00

Variety is the spice of life, right? Why can’t this apply to making/giving cards? I received this “Message in a Bottle” for my birthday and thought it was a fun play on a birthday card. How fun is that? How else can you give a “card” to someone? Leave me a comment with your thoughts.

Magic

2010-11-10T04:00:00.000-07:00

In our Year in Review we are officially up to date (I didn’t think we would make it). What does this mean? Well, now I can take some time and share some of my favorite techniques and projects (with some holidays mixed in as they come).

There is very little real magic in the world; I think this technique can almost qualify. What technique? The chalkboard technique! I can think of many ways in which to describe this, but I am going to stick with magic. Basically, one would stamp on one color of paper in Versamark ink and then use a sponge dauber to apply chalk to the stamped image; after completely covered, the excess chalk is wiped off. The color only sticks to the area with the ink…like magic.

This card is a navy base with the flower and leaf pattern applied and then ‘chalked-up’ with yellow, orange, brown, and green. The excess is removed, the paper is matted and added to the card and accented with stamps and ribbon, and viola…a card!

This technique is really so much fun. Click here to see how else I utilized this chalkboard technique.

Card Update

2010-11-09T04:00:00.001-07:00

Before you will be able to understand the update, click here to learn more about this card.

There are several aspects to this update:
First, Soft Suede: yes, I still love this color; it is my current favorite brown (almost rivaling black at this point, but let’s not get carried away). I am not sure what it is about this color, but it almost transforms the colors with which it is paired…almost magical!

Second, Pattern: so, it was time consuming to make this checkerboard circle pattern, so much so that I have not decided to duplicate it. I am attempting to think of a nice occasion which would warrant this (and would be appropriate). What occasion would you think would work well with this?

Finally, The Card: as I mentioned when I posted this card originally, it was going to stay in my “collection” for a while until a super special occasion needed it. Guess What? I still have it. Now, I have to say that there were many times when I felt the card would ‘work’ for the occasion, but I just couldn’t seem to let it go. Let’s face it, I don’t think I will ever give this one away, but in the attempt to make cards which are up to it caliber, I do think I have gone above and beyond.

Office Supplies?

2010-11-08T04:00:00.000-07:00

This card includes one of my secret fascinations (ok, it really isn’t a big secret): office supplies. I love office supplies; I could spend hours just walking around Staples or Office Depot or OfficeMax and loving every moment of it. Why do I enjoy them so much? Honestly, I don’t really know. I like seeing the variety of design as well as the plethora of different styles.

And in this card is a nice gold paper clip. I love it!

Can I take credit?

2010-11-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

It is difficult to give credit when one doesn’t know to whom to give it. I don’t believe that I have seen this pattern on a card before, have you? I know that I have seen the background style before, but I cannot recollect where or when. Does anyone know? Is it a painting? Is it…ugh…I have no idea.

Regardless, I really like this card. One reason is that each truly is unique. Each card can be different: more/less lines, more/less color, etc. – the same basic plan, but different. Do you like cards like this? It is time consuming, but I think it is worth it.

What a Challenge

2010-11-06T04:00:00.000-06:00

This was a fun challenge for one of my card clubs last year. We were given a set of paper scraps and needed to turn it into a card (to be given to the Ronald McDonald House Charity). Click the picture to learn more about my challenge.

I like this card because the layout works for just about any theme: change the stamp and the ribbon and you have a completely different card. I really love when you find a "go to template" to which you can turn in a pinch.

The best laid schemes...go oft awry

2010-11-02T04:00:00.000-06:00

Robert Burns could not be more correct; I had a plan – a plan with a map – and it just didn’t come to fruition. I was on a roll with my posting and had my Year in Review all organized – organized, but not written yet. Then, life happened and I got behind again.

After much thought I decided that instead of being so far behind, I would take a day and just catch up on our Year to date. So, I hope you are ready for a long one:

Here is a fantastic birthday card for a young boy; it was actually from my nephew just to say hello, but I think it could work for so many different “boy” occasions. I love how the corrugation of the brown paper helps to drive home the ruggedness of the card.

We have come to the late Summer/early Fall on our trip; about as late as you can get in summer before fall begins is my anniversary with my wonderful husband. In order to commemorate that wonderful day, here is a cute gift bag. This would be great either as a favor or as a holder for various treats or gifts. (On a personal note...and to show-off/brag a little…I have the best husband in the whole world.)

And now it is fall!

I have to admit: when I first saw this card at a crafting event I attended recently…I wasn’t too thrilled about it. However, the more I look at this card, the more I love it. There were many steps (many messy steps) to this card and it isn’t one which one would want to make in mass quantities, but how it finished, I think, really dazzles. There is sheen, sparkle, accents, ribbon, paint, sponging, spritzing, and so much more that help to put this card over the top. In the end, I think I love it.

Daisies, as you know if you are a loyal follower of my blog (a gigantic thank you to you, by the way) are my FAVORITE, but closely second are sunflowers. My two favorite flowers for my two favorite seasons; I think that sunflowers are the ‘daisies of the fall,’ but that is just my opinion. Here is a beautiful card I received from my sister (which I will NEVER give away….). There is nothing fancy about this card – it is all about the sunflower – and I love it!

Ah, when and how did my owl fetish begin? Well, that is a long story my friend and I do not think that this is the most appropriate outlet for it. What I can tell you, making a long story very short, is that it was initiated by my good friend, Falisha, and the need for baby shower favors for her sister. This owl is the result of that need (click the picture to learn more); the ‘tummy’ is a candy cup and is filled with Reece’s Pieces. All I have to say is that once you get on the ‘Owl Train’…it is hard to get off!

This is a little out of order, but oh well. I needed to make a card for my card club which utilized punches. Click the larger picture to see how I was inspired to create this Owl Mask card. I suppose you could ask, “Which came first: the owl mask card or the owl obsession?” And to that, I do not have an answer.

What a transition: Fall to Owls to Halloween…perfect (my lit professor would be so proud)!

I love this card, and honestly, I can’t really tell you why. Maybe it is the eyes…all of them! They are so goofy and fun that the fact that the card is covered in spiders doesn’t even bother me…how can they…they have the cutest eyes. Thanks, Rach, for this adorable card.

Here is a recent addition to my Halloween card collection. I just made this card recently at my Stamp Club. See if you can guess what I love about this card….

Go ahead…just try.

I am waiting….

Ok, let’s see if you were right: patterned paper, layering, accents, more layering, punches, coloring, and ribbon. How’d you do? I knew you would get it!

This card was designed by Sharon – it is adorable!

I was able to attend a crafting event at which I made so many Halloween treats: several different candy holders and the most amazing spider out of punches!!! I love them all!

Have I mentioned how much I am obsessed with punches? Maybe once or twice…? Maybe a zillion times…? Well, here is what gave me a big jump start: aren’t these treat bag amazing? Gretchen designed these and they are made completely out of punches (click the picture to learn more): a circle here, a modified oval there, and a corner for good measure. These have to be my favorite Halloween find ever!

(This section was supposed to post on Halloween Day…it is a bit late now, but I think you will get over it).

Happy Halloween! All of the other pictures lead up to this amazing card. I call this Frank Picasso: it is my take on Frankenstein’s Monster with a Picasso edge. I hope you all had a wonderful Halloween (and if you need more candy, then stop by…we have a TON left over)!

Whew…I think that is about it…. We should be all caught-up; let’s see how long this lasts.

Until next time!

A little Fishing never hurt anyone...

2010-10-22T04:00:00.001-06:00

...and if it did, then I don't really want to hear about it.

This fish inspired card is great...if I do say so myself. I love all the different aspects of it: vellum, brads, piercing, crystal effects, and utilizing my CraftRobo! Click on the picture to learn more.

Purple Paradise

2010-10-21T04:00:00.000-06:00

These types of cards seem to be everywhere...and then they go away for a while, but resurface when another "flower" holiday rolls around. I had never made one before, nor did I have any desire to make one, but found the pattern for these roses and was looking for a reason to use it. I love the way they look; they are a bit tricky, but well worth it if it is for someone/something you love. Click on the picture to learn more about this card and the reason behind making it.

He's the Man....

2010-10-20T04:00:00.000-06:00

Father's Day Time!

As with my previous post about Mother's Day, I think Father's Day Cards are/can be taylored for specific types of fathers: simple, a little fancy, or over the top.

This card by my sister is great. What do I love about it? What gets me everytime is the image itself: that little bear cub thinks he is so clever and sneeky - and what is usually a Kick Me sign is actually a cute appreciation sign. Adorable.

I was able to make this card in my W'ink club. I love the monochromatic design and its simple lines and style (and sponging, embossing, and a little ribbon really helps to put it high on my list).

Revisiting the Woods

2010-10-19T04:00:00.000-06:00

This card just makes me happy.

Once in a while I make a card which makes me stop and reflect: I think about the recipiant and the purpose of the card. On many occasions I realize that the card "works" for it's purpose, but once in a while I cannot get over myself - as is the case with this card. Even now, over a year later, I can't even believe that I made this card let alone how perfect is was for the recipiant. Click on the picture to learn all about this card and the purpose behind it.

Summer in Fall

2010-10-18T04:00:00.001-06:00

We have reached the Summer in our review of the year and what says "summer" like a vase of fragrant flowers? I really enjoyed this card from my W'ink Club; I like how the patterned paper works with the image. With this card I also learned a technique using water color crayons differently than I had previously.

Hello Summer!

[Insert paper cutter/embosser brand name here.]

2010-10-15T04:00:00.000-06:00

Regardless of what brand you use, don't you just love how there are so many options available for creating texture, pattern, shapes, and design? I do, but that is probably because I am a succor for it all: a little bumpy here, some shapes over there, something I didn't have to cut out myself in front, and some punches to top it all off!

I made this mini note card box and coordinating note card at a recent event and think it is adorable. The lattice paper was embossed, the flowers were cut and embossed, the sentiment was cut and embossed, and the circles were punched - add some ribbon and a bit of layering and ta-da...an adorable little gift box and card.

As I mentioned, it doesn't really matter what you use (I have a Cuttlebug and a CraftRobo, but who's keeping track) as long as it works for you. Enjoy them (And if you ever want a demonstration, then let me know and I will show you why I think they are amazing!)

A third of the way through...

2010-10-14T04:00:00.000-06:00

Can you believe that we have made it a third of the way through the year already? That's right; in our trip through the year we have come to May - Mother's Day to be exact. Here are a couple cards which help celebrate mothers.

This first card is adorable. I think that it is fun and whimsical and would be perfect for any mother - especially those who may not be your 'cookie cutter' type of mother. The pearls on this little lady have a bit of glitter in them and I love how a typically masculine color palate is transformed to make this a successful card.

Switching gears, this Mother's day card is completely different in both style and target audience; it is more your typical occasion card with some flowers and such. I have to admit, it was a challenge to get it made (how it resulted in looked was a far cry than the idea at the begining), but I think that it was a great card to give to my mother and to my mother-in-law.

Click on the larger two photos to learn more about these two projects.

Arbor Day!

2010-10-13T04:00:00.001-06:00

I feel that this has become a lost holiday. I don't do much to celebrat it, but I am going to take this opportunity to share a few tree-inspired cards.

I just love this stamp set; it is simple and basic, but it is relatable to so many different occasions. In this example, this set is used in a Spring setting with this bird and house. What else do I love about his card? Soft Suede...do you love it too? I think this is one of the better new colors that Stampin' Up! has introduced in a while. With this card I learned a new technique: stamping with bleach (the flowers on the back moss piece). I think it turned out rather nicely; click on the picture to learn more.

Here is another use for that same tree stamp; this time it is more of an early Spring or Fall setting. In this example, it is used in its bare form which I feel adds to the misty/foggy feel of this card. What else do I love about this card? Well, I am glad that you asked. The front panel of this card (the landscape scene) is a plain white pice of paper. That's right! Through sponging and the help of some carefully shaped stencils, this scene came to life. Click on the large picture to lean more about this exciting process. I have been tossing around the idea of putting together a tutorial on this card; if you are interested, then leave me a comment. If I get some interest, then I will create one.

My final tribute to Arbor Day comes in the form of a birthday card. I was inspired by a similar idea in the Stampin' Up! catalog, but pt a little "Nichole" twist on it. I utilized some colors which I felt matched the recipiant of this card as well as didn't make it too girly (which is good since it was for my brother-in-law). I used a hodgepodge of the Circle Circus stamps heat embossed with white on various colors and then punched with coordinating circles. A strategic tree trunk makes this tree "so freakin' cute' if I do say so myself (Suzanne, that's just for you). And to top it off, a creative fold and closure makes this card one of my favorites!

Happy Arbor Day everyone!

Who is in the mood for something free?

2010-10-12T18:25:00.004-06:00

What would be better to celebrate the end of Spring in our review of the year then with some free and exciting crafting supplies? Um...nothing!

So, without further delay, here is what you need to do to be entered into the drawing for a wonderful crafting package (paper, accents, stamps, accents, ribbon, and some other items I want to keep a surprise):

1. Become a follower of my blog (over on the left side) if you are not already...and if you are then yippee: one less thing for you to do!

2. Leave a comment to this post with the answer to the following question: As I posted before, daisies are my favorite flower; from what movie is the following conversation:

Person #1: I love dasies.

Person #2: You told me.

Person #1: They're so friendly.

That is all you have to do: two little things...be a follower and identify a movie quote. I will draw a name from the correct responses on Saturday, October 16th.

Good Luck (especially to all you fellow daisy lovers)!

Spring is in the air...

2010-10-12T04:00:00.001-06:00

I have a very large Mulberry tree in my front yard which means I know exactly when it is Spring; I get to be woken up by the "lovely" sound of birds chirping! All joking aside, I do love the sprintime: lighter coats, sunnier days, and the possibility of open-toed shoes. And ot make it even better, Spring brings the arrival of my favorite flower: the daisy. It is true - dasies come in all sorts of colors, sizes, and types, but my favorite is the "vanilla" version: the simple, basic, "Plain Jane," white daisy. Give me a yellow center with long white petals and I am in heaven.

I was so excited when I got to make this daisy card in my Stampede Card Club. It utilizes a custom debossed daisy pattern which is accented by a little sponging (daisies and sponging...I am in heaven)! Click on the card to see how Sharon, the designer, describes this project.

The other card features another sprintime flower: the tulip. I think this card is a double-spring-wammie since the tulip is formed by utilizing a wing from a bird punch - see, double springtime! Click on the card to learn more about this card.

Variety

2010-10-10T04:00:00.000-06:00

Just as the world is filled will people of various styles and types, the same is true for cards (or anything else for that matter). Though I love receiving an thoughtful handmade card, I am not "anti-store-bought-card" by any means. This card was given to me by my sister-in-law and I think that it is wonderful (both the card and what was written inside). The card is a textured cardstock with a debossed image of a dandelion filled with celery green and a simple message; you can't ask for anything better than that.

On more of a Springtime note:

2010-10-09T04:00:00.000-06:00

How exciting is this? We have made it to Easter in our trip down memory lane. One doesn't see many non-Easter Bunny Easter cards circulating out there; lucky for me, I have one of my own. Again, this is from my sister, Rachel, and I just love it! As I mentioned before, it is as though this card was made just for me because it utilizes so many of my favorite techniques:

Color: So Saffron (oh, I just love it, love it, love it), moss, black, and white. As a "yellow fan," this pairing helps to show the lightness of the yellow without it being too overpowering.

Texture: Embossing is such a simple way to add depth and dimention to any project and I just love the way the flower pattern offsets the sharp edges of this card.

Accents: It doesn't take much, but just a few brads helps to both ground the front of this card and add a little extra touch to elevate it to the next level.

Simple: The best projects always are; I don't mean "simple" in easy, but as in clean and uncluttered. I enjoy the simple and straightforward saying, the reservation used in the tulips, and the overall crispness of the card.

I love it all. Thanks for this "just for me" card, Rach.

A little retrosection.

2010-10-08T04:00:00.001-06:00

I saw a freind of mine the other day and was so happy to finally meet-up with her and catch-up on all that has been happening. Her daughter, Sydney, is a little over six months old and she is growing up so quickly. I was able to make her birth announcements and loved being able to lend a hand. It was a challenge: I wanted to coordinate the announcement with the invite and thank you card I received without being too matchy-matchy. I decided to stick with the same color palate, but to put my own spin on the layout and style. If you are a follower of mine, then you will know: I love waterfall cards! What a great opportunity to utilize one of my favorite card templates for one of my favorite friends. Click on the picture to read more.

And then it was green....

2010-10-07T04:00:00.000-06:00

A little further down the "Holiday Brick Road" is St. Patrick's Day. Here is another example of a card from my sister, Rachel. When it comes to holiday cards, I think she does the best: her cards are clearly for a specific holiday, but they don't ever seem too "holiday-holiday." For example, regarding this card, if you took off the leprechaun and the sentiment and replaced them with a different combination (perhaps "Happy Birthday"), the card would still be appropriate and enjoyable. I so enjoy this about her cards; click on the picture to see what other treats came with this card.

Valentines's Day in October

2010-10-06T04:00:00.001-06:00

I suppose it isn't too far-fetched since I love Fall!

I woke up this morning and there was a bit of a nip in the air and I loved it. Though I do not like to wait for the car to hear-up in the morning on the way to work, I do like the way the crispness helps to wake me up and get me ready for the day.

Here are a couple Valentine's Day items:

The first is from Sharon; what I like the most about this is that it is very non-traditional V-Day: colors, pattern, textures, etc...that's me: non-traditional! The second is from my sister, Rachel; this holds some sweet candies and is so cheery - I still haven't eaten the candies because I don't want to take it apart to get to them. Thanks gals!

This One's for You...

2010-10-05T04:00:00.005-06:00

At the end of the day, I really like this card. Have you been in the process of making a card/project and thought, "this is not looking well at all," but when it is all finished you think, "I really like the way this looks"? Case and point: this card. It was a tough challenge for me for my Card Club: masculine birthday with no ribbon, buttons, brads, etc...now those are all my favorites...what was I to do? Click on the picture to see what else I thought.

So, what do I specifically like about this card? I love the heat embossing - I am utilizing this technique more and more and the more I use it the less cumbersome it seems. I also love the colors: Soft Suede...I can't say it enough: LOVE IT! I think it serves as a nice back-drop to the crispness of the celery, navy, and pale blue. Finally, I really like the shape of this card: it was a first for me, but since using it here, I have enjoyed playing with rounding only some of the corners of a card/project: sometimes just one...sometimes all but one...whatever I feel like doing at that time.

Why, you may be wondering, a masculine birthday card right after New Year's? I am glad you asked: the beginning of February is my wonderful husband's birthday; this one's for you babe (the post...not the card)!

Not all Glitz and Glam

2010-10-04T04:00:00.000-06:00

Here is another New Year card that I received; this card is from my mother, Susan. As you will soon realize, if you don't already know, I like shapes, color blocking, and punches of color (among other things) when it comes to cards. I think this card hits so many different points on my "I like this card check-list." I enjoy how the circles offset the sharp edges of the blocks as well as how the So Saffron (one of my favorite Stampin' Up! colors of all time) circle pops against the purple and blue.

I am not sure if she did, but it seems that she created this card just for me (and Mom, if you didn't, well, let's just say that you did); I may just CASE this card in the future for other occasions.

Thanks, Mom!

Up, up, and Away!

2010-10-03T04:00:00.002-06:00

As promised, here is a little more inspired by the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta which kicked-off its 39th season yesterday. There is something amazing which occurs when you see the sky filled with hot air balloons of all shapes, sizes, and colors: you are automatically eight years old again.

Do I attend the Fiesta every year? No. Why not? Well, for one, I am not what you would call "an early person" by any stretch of the imagination and, for two, being in the midst of large crowds is not what I would consider to be a fantastic time. Lucky for me I have been able to view the Fiesta without actually attending it: since the office in which I work is about a block from Balloon Fiesta Park, from my desk I have a panoramic view toward the West which serves as either the "we are just taking off and getting on our way" avenue or the "we are coming in for a landing" avenue. For the entire week the sky will be full of balloons; it is beautiful!

Here are two cards, both inspired by hot air balloons. They both utilize the Sweet Centers stamp set by Stampin' Up!, but in a different way. The first, designed by Anne, creates the balloon portion utilizing iris folding; this is a difficult and labor intensive technique, but the result is great. The second, designed by Sharon, creates the balloon portion utilizing a Sweet Treat Cup which, in this case, is filled with purple skittles...my favorite. They both are so unique - just like each ofthe balloons in the sky. Click on each picture to learn more.

And we're off...

2010-10-02T04:00:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year!

Oh, I just love this card...I loved it when I first made it at my W'ink Club and I love it still today. It is clean, crisp, bold - all the things you want in a fresh start. Click on the picture to see what I had to say about it before.

Coming at you...

2010-10-01T04:00:00.000-06:00

Just in case you didn't know, home sweet home to me is Albuquerque, New Mexico and has been for quite some time. During which time, I have grown to appreciate "New Mexican" food, however I have to admit (...and I almost cringe to say) I am not in love with it. I enjoy a nice plate of Carne Adovada, but as a whole, well, I'd rather have a salad or pizza or...well, almost anything else. I can hear the lynch mob congregating on my front porch already, but just think of it this way: I am leaving more of it out there for everyone else to enjoy!

All joking aside, I do enjoy being here in New Mexico...especially in the fall: the nights are cooling down, the smell of green chile roasting, exciting breezes, and the International Balloon Fiesta (that starts tomorrow...how exciting...maybe I'll talk more about that later). I decided to start out my return to blogging with this New Mexico card...I really love it. Click on it to see what else I have to say about it!

Technically speaking, how long is a while?

2010-09-30T16:42:00.005-06:00

...I only ask because I feel as though it has been a while (well, that is an understatement) since I have posted anything. Oh, my poor blog is so neglected; however, that is about to change. So much has been happening, not that I am making excuses, over the past few months; one of which - I decided to reorganize how I store my cards/projects. Through this process I was able to get "reaquainted" with several of my favorite craft project/gifts/etc and would like to share them with you. Over the next little while, I am going to be giving you a chronological taste of some of my favorites, both older favorites and new favorites. Tune back in to see them all; let me know if you enjoy them as well.

Better late than never…

2010-06-13T18:13:00.003-06:00

As with many things, I have been on the fence about converting my scrapbooking from hand-prepared to digital. Because of this lack of decision, my 2009 scrapbook has not even been started yet (I didn’t want to do it all and then decide I wanted to do it digitially over). As per my recent decision, I have decided to give the digital scrapbooking a try. I thought I would start with the cover page of my 2009 scrapbook; what do you think of it? I am anxious to get the rest of my pages completed before this year is completed (because I haven't done any of 2010 yet either...ugh, I am so behind).

I am interested to know what you think about digital scrapbooking versus hand-prepared scrapbooking. Let me know.

What a Hoot

2010-06-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

I have a confession to make: I have not always been a big fan of the new clear treat cups which have been used lately in various projects. It is not that I don’t think that they are fun, it is just that I never saw them used in a way which I thought was very “out of the box” so to speak…until now. I have to say, the owl idea was a bit hard to picture, but thanks to the foresight of Falisha, we made it happen. What an adorable party favor at a baby shower…a pregnant owl. I still cannot believe how adorable they ended up being… I LOVE THEM! It is amazing to me how a little time, a variety of punches, Reece’s Pieces, and great company can create something so fantastic. What a great idea Falisha (oh, and thanks again for letting me keep one for myself).

Recipe: Soft Suede, Glossy White, Confetti Ivory, Pumpkin Pie, and Bordering Blue cardstock, Flower Trio, ¼” ¾” 1¾” 2¼” circles, and five-point flower punches, round sweet treats cup, Reece’s Pieces, Soft Suede classic ink, and lots of laughter.

Digital: With and Without

2010-06-06T06:00:00.002-06:00

For my card club swap, the theme was Sympathy. Needless to say, I was not super excited about making this card for two reasons: first, who wants to think about sympathy and second, I didn’t have any sympathy-type stamps. What I did have was Stampin’ Up!’s My Digital Studio program. I remember seeing this tree – which I love, but never purchased the stamp – and thought it would be great.

My idea was to use the tree image and print it out on my CraftRobo – if you don’t remember how much I absolutely love this machine, then give me a call and I will tell you all about it – and use the negative space for the card. Well, I did, then added a sentiment and some ribbon; I thought it was ok…I didn’t really like how all the little corners of the tree kept popping up (I wanted there to be some depth, but a consistent depth…not fly-aways). Then it hit me, “I have to do this nine more times for the swap.” That is when I really got discouraged.

MDS to the rescue! Instead of utilizing the image from the program, I should use the entire program to create the card…duh!!! I have to admit, I was a little nervous (I mean, I never used it before – aside from the time my mother gave me a crash course, but she was sitting there the whole time – and I would be giving them to members of the card club for review…who wouldn’t be a little freaked out?) to say the least.

As with most things, slow and steady wins the race proved true in this case. I went through several versions of this, but finally settled on my favorite. Seeing the two side-by-side, I think the digital card is a pretty fair translation (better in some cases) of my original idea. Looking back (and after a few suggestions form my club members), there are a few things I would do differently, but that is a story for another time.

I am looking forward to getting to know the MDS program and all the ways it works.

Hand-made Recipe: Basic Black, Whisper White, and Mellow Moss cardstock, black grosgrain ribbon, dimensional spots, mini glue dots, MDS tree image, CraftRobo, corner rounder punch, and lots of time.

MDS Recipe: MDS program, Basic Black, Mellow Moss, and Whisper White cardstock, and corner rounder punch.

To Clear or Not To Clear…that is the question

2010-06-03T06:00:00.000-06:00

Ok, I have been on the fence about this for a while. As you should know by now, I am a big fan/user of Stampin’ Up! products. They have begun to offer their line of stamp products in a new clear mounted option in addition to their wood mounted option. My dilemma: to stick with wood or to convert over to clear. This is a tough decision…one I don’t really want to have to make, but suppose I really should. I had tried the new clear mounted stamps at classes before, but didn’t really see the big difference…until now!

At stamp club we created this card using the new clear mounted stamps and it became so clear (ha ha…not pun intended) to me that they were the way to go. I love this card and the flower motif we were able to use; I love the way the two layers purposefully do not align. There really isn’t a specific reason I decided to make the switch to clear, but after I finished the card I thought, “Ok…I am ready to change…I am ready to stop being stubborn and set in my ways and make a change.”

Let me know what you think about clear mounted stamps…I am curious to know.

New Beginnings…

2010-06-01T06:00:00.000-06:00

Can you believe it is already June? Wow, June 1st…the first of June….

I thought that, with it being the first of June, I would share with you one of my “firsts.” A friend of mine recently had a baby girl and (for the first time) I volunteered to make her baby announcements. I had never made/designed a baby announcement before nor had I made more than a few of the same card before, so I dove in head first not knowing what lay before me.

With my friend’s blessing, I am glad that I am able to share these with you (how awkward would that have been…?). All I knew was that she just had a baby girl named Sydney (and the particulars or course) and that I wanted the announcement to coordinate with the invite and thank you card from her shower:

Black, purple, and pink…I knew pretty quickly that this was going to be a challenge. Lucky for me I had an idea which had been stewing in my mind for some time: a waterfall card. Do you remember when I posted a few cards and had that idea? (Click here to read about my epiphany) Well, I knew it would be a perfect way to get the necessary information across and still maintain the “cute” factor. A little planning and not so little time later, the product was complete:

I love the way it came together. Even now, months later, I still love it. I know that it took some time, but while I was doing it I just kept thinking about my friend, her family, and her new daughter and how much I knew they would also love it…that helped the process move along. I am so happy that she trusted me enough to make these for her; she is amazing!

Happy Memorial Day!

2010-05-31T05:00:00.001-06:00

I don’t care what the calendar says, for me, today marks the first day of summer!
I love the summer: the blue skies, the gentle breezes, the smell of chlorine from the pools (I know…I have issues), the cook-outs, the late nights, and – well, you get the idea. What does summertime mean to me? One word: outside!

So, I made this card at a Technique Tuesdays class a little while ago with a friend of mine in mind, but I never really got around to getting it to her. I had it out on my work table with the sole idea that if I kept looking at it, then I will be motivated to write something and send it off to her. No luck (sorry – you know who you are – the time has passed for me to send this off to you, so you will just have to enjoy it this way). But, the more I saw it the more I realized that summer was coming and, hence, the thoughts I already mentioned.

Anyway…so, Happy (unofficial) Summer to everyone…have a blast!

Recipe: (all Technique Tuesdays products; I don’t know the fancy names for everything…sorry) Craft, Green, Brown, and White cardstock, craft blue ink, classic brown and green ink, cloud template, owl/branch/leaves clear stamps, and copic markers (several colors).

Just because I care!

2010-05-29T06:00:00.001-06:00

Four words with tremendous meaning. I don’t remember from where I got this card (a swap, or my sister, or a friend…it is blank inside), but I came across it as I was doing some spring cleaning and that sentiment hit me pretty hard: just because I care.

I suppose I am not the greatest when it comes to accepting sentiment or support, but I know that there have been several people who have tried to offer it to me lately and have not been received as well as they deserve. To them, I deeply apologize and am truly sorry. It is difficult sometimes to see weakness in yourself; if you are like me, then you try to ignore it (or revert to the little boy mentality, “rub some dirt on it and it will be fine”) for as long as you can until it become impossible to do so and then you are left in a place even worse than before.

Just because I care.
Not because I am going to want something from you later; not because I think I owe it to you; not because I feel sorry for you; not because I am nosy; not because I feel like others need to see me making an effort; not because I think that I am “supposed to”; not because I am trying to “fix it”; not because I think I know what you mean; not because I (fill in the blank)…. Just because I care.

Thanks to all of you (you know who you are).

A little of this and a little of that…

2010-05-27T06:00:00.001-06:00

I made this card in my stamp club a little ways back (and then left it in my folder so I forgot all about it until I looked in there again) and think it is just adorable. It has a little bit of everything in it, but they all work so well together.

The pattern paper helps to tie in all the colors, the saffron adds a bit of pop, the glitter on the flower tag brings some sparkle and the matting helps to make it all polished. I think it is great and super fun (both to make and to admire afterwards).

Thanks Sharon!

A package for me

2010-05-25T06:00:00.000-06:00

I recently got another package from my sister, Rachel, in the mail filled with various goodies. When I got home one day my husband said, “You got something from your sister – it feels like she sent you a brick.” And he was right; it weighed a ton (thanks goodness for those flat-rate boxes).

She made me a set of four coasters; they had the medallion motif on them in brown. I thought they turn out great…what a neat way to customize coasters (made from inexpensive tiles). She also included a card holder (recipe card, note card, or…in this case…greeting card) using a flower motif in brown and a clothes pin. How creative. She also included two different thank you cards…you can never have enough thank you cards.

I have to veere off course for a moment…I kind of hooked my sister on this amazing tree stamp. So much so that she just had to get it herself. I love it, but I am not taking full responsibility for this…I am partially blaming it on Sharon (yup…you, Sharon) who was instrumental in getting me hooked on it in the first place. We made a card at our stamp club using it and I was hooked. So, I suppose it Rachel’s turn to “pass along the hooking” to someone new…I think she is up to it.

I love getting packages in the mail (well, honestly I love getting anything in the mail that is not junk mail), especially when they are so much fun….

Thanks Rach.

Happy Mother’s Day!

2010-05-23T06:00:00.002-06:00

...just two weeks late.

I am going to be serious for a moment (I know, it is a little out of the ordinary for me).
This day helps me to realize that I have been so blessed in my life: I have a wonderful mother, an amazing mother-in-law, and so many other women willing to lend a mother’s ear, shoulder, or smile to help me out. I hope all of you know how much you mean to me and how much I treasure you.

Thank you all for everything.

Recipe: Echoes of Kindness, Well Scripted, and Watercolor Mini stamp sets, Soft Suede, Craft, and Whisper White cardstock, Certainly Celery Designer Series Paper, Soft Suede, Certainly Celery, Old Olive, Pretty in Pink, and Rose Red classic ink, Certainly Celery, Pretty in Pink, and Rose Red Stampin’ Write Markers, Elegant Bouquet embossing folder, ½” circle, corner rounder, and wide oval punches, ½” double-sided Soft Suede and ¼” Grosgrain Certainly Celery ribbon, large white grommet, sponges, dimensional spots, sticky strip, my own fingers (for tearing), and lots of patience.

One Page Wonder Challenge: Wrap-up!

2010-04-05T06:00:00.001-06:00

I thought this was a great challenge; I was given the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and see what I could do – not to mention I was able to create eight cards for the Ronald McDonald House. Anne must have been inspired to extend this challenge; I enjoyed it very much.

I customized the envelopes as well for each card, but decided to omit them from the pictures. Everyone has favorites, right? Of course they do…it is only normal. These four cards are mine with this challenge; what were yours? I would love to know.

Do you have a sheet of patterned paper (or any paper for that matter) lying around with nothing to do? Try doing what I did: make as many cards as you can with it…it is truly a lot of fun.

One Page Wonder Challenge: Day 5

2010-04-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

Back to the norm: adding one more color. I decided to utilize all of the colors I had been using: teal, brown, pink, and yellow to create a couple more cards.

I got a Cuddle Bug for Christmas and am trying to “work it in” to various projects I create; I am not being very successful if you ask me. Honestly, I saw this card (or one similar to it) online and saved a copy of it to my “I need a little help” folder. I thought I would try to see if I could create a card at least as successful as that card. I think this turned out ok, but there is something I don’t really like about it – I am not sure what. I love the layered flowers (one of my favorite things to do) and the ribbon. I like the embossing folder and I like the spotted paper (this is the mystery paper), but I don’t know if I like the two of them together…. I think perhaps the stripe side of the paper would have worked better since it is monochromatic; what do you think?

Recipe: Taken with Teal classic ink, So Saffron, Taken with Teal, Soft Sky, and Regal Rose cardstock, mystery paper, flower/circle embossing folder, 5-point flower punch, Boho Flowers punch, Three Flowers punch, Flirty Ribbon Originals, Chocolate Chip mini library clip, Chocolate Chip corduroy brads, Neutrals buttons, and dimensional spots.

This card came out of necessity for me as opposed to guidance or challenge need. I thought I was just about finished with all of my cards for this One Page Wonder Challenge. I cleaned up my space, put away all my ink and tools, and laid out my cards. It wasn’t until that moment when I realized the “add one color” pattern I created. It was also not until that moment when I realized that I had an odd number…yes, this does bother me. This would just not do…I needed to make one more card, but how? I used just about all of my mystery paper. I dug through the trash and found a sliver of paper 2”x5½”…I had to find a way for this to work. The stripes were in the “wrong” direction, so I had to use the polka-dots. I wanted to use all of the color again and I wanted to use more stamping than I had previously.

It didn’t turn out too shabby, if you ask me. The flower is one of my favorites (it has been retired for years and years, but I cannot part with it…); I love using it in different colors to show it’s versatility…teal leaves…really? Overall, I like it; would I make it again? Probably some version of it, but not exactly.

Recipe: Daisy stamp set, So Saffron, More Mustard, Regal Rose, Rose Red, Soft Sky, Taken with Teal, and Close to Cocoa classic ink, Regal Rose, chocolate Chip, close to Cocoa, So Saffron, and Whisper White card stock, mystery paper, leave motif embossing folder, Neutrals buttons, and dimensional spots.

One Page Wonder Challenge: Day 4

2010-04-03T06:00:00.000-06:00

Not wanted to be too predictable, today’s card does not add another color – it substitutes yellow for pink. It is still so amazing to me how changing just one color can change the entire dynamic of a card/project.

Though I love the pink in the combo from previous cards, this yellow takes this card to a more mellow place. This card is a far cry from what I set-out to create when I started – partly because I was particular and partly because I was frugal. I made the center panel too short for my original plan (not by much, but by enough that it drove me crazy to see it “off” at all) and I did not want to redo it, so I set-out trying to redesign the card with this particular feature in mind. I like the way all of the different aspects of this card work together even though they are all so diverse.

Recipe: Oval All stamp set, Close to Cocoa and Taken with Teal classic ink, Close to Cocoa, Taken with Teal, Soft Sky, and So Saffron cardstock, mystery paper, leaf pattern paper, Sherbet Ribbon Originals, large oval punch, scallop oval punch, polka-dot embossing folder, sponges, and dimensional spots.

One Page Wonder Challenge: Day 3

2010-04-02T06:00:00.002-06:00

Here we are again with more of my One Page Wonder cards. For this set of cards, I added one more color: pink (Regal Rose and Rose Red). If you know me at all you know that I am not a big “pink” person, but I used it here since it was part of the color scheme on the polka-dot side of my mystery paper.

I have made this card many times in the past; there is something about the blocking and the front panel and the layers and the cutting that just drives me crazy for it. This card is the only card in the OPWChallenge where I used both sides of the mystery paper: the polka-dot and the stripe. I was able to add some interest to the dark teal panel by layering on some smaller flowers with my Versamark ink. With all that is “happening” with this card, I love the way the light teal panel’s sparcity keeps it from being overwhelming. Don’t be surprised if you get a card from me which looks like this…I love it!

Recipe: With All My Heart and Flower Fancy stamp sets, Regal Rose, Rose Red, Soft Sky, and Taken with Teal classic ink, Versamark craft ink, Taken with Teal, Regal Rose, and Whisper White cardstock, mystery paper, Flirty Ribbon Originals, Chocolate Chic corduroy bottons, Boho Flowers punch, scissors, and dimensional spots.

How much is too much when it comes to spots? This card utilizes many of my favorite techniques: layering, dimension, ribbon, embossing, and (this last one is not really a technique) Circle Circus. I am not sure if this card “works” or not, but regardless of the result, there is something about it that makes me smile.

I am going to take a moment to digress for a little (so if you aren’t up for a story, then thanks for stopping by and hopefully you will come back tomorrow…no story tomorrow). This color combo (pink, teal, and white), though it is a bit drastic for my personal liking, is pretty dear to me. When I was in high school I had to complete a project for my business marketing class. In it, we needed to create a restaurant from the ground up (the building, the décor, the embiance, the food…you name it, we needed to think of it). I decided to create a 50’s style diner decorated in pink and teal neon (checkerboard floors, nostalgic memorabilia, car-hop type uniforms, shakes, burgers, etc.). When completed, I thought I had a pretty good concept for a successful business. Years later, I moved to Albuquerque and was invited to the Route 66 Diner with a group of friends – it was like a page out of the Twilight Zone: the Route 66 Diner was my restaurant. I was both shocked and delighted to know that this place had been around “forever” and that it was still highly successful. Anyway, I think of the Route 66 Diner and my class project each time I see this color combo…just thought I would share a little insight into my catty-wompus mind with you.

Recipe: Circle Circus and Whimsical Words stamp sets, Taken with Teal classic ink, Versamark craft ink, Regal Rose, Taken with Teal, and Close to Cocoa cardstock, mystery paper, Spotted Teal pattern paper, 1¼” 1½” and Scallop circle punches, Flirty Ribbon, Winter White embossing powder, heat tool, and dimensional spots.

One Page Wonder Challenge: Day 2

2010-04-01T06:00:00.001-06:00

So, stepping up my monochromatic card a notch, I added a color (it is actually two colors, but since one is a lighter shade of the other…I am counting them as one): teal – Taken with Teal and Soft Sky, to be exact. With these two cards, I wanted to show that you didn’t need many embellishments to make a beautiful card; on these, I didn’t use any (it was hard…real hard for me)…just paper and ink – and a whole lot of restraint.

I really like the way this card turned out. I wasn’t so sure that I would like it when I was conceptualizing it, but it is actually one of my favorites of all the cards made for this challenge. I kept it real simple: split-page design, tone-on-tone pattern (both in the mystery paper and in the teal paper), and put the greeting right in the center.

Recipe: Petal Prints and Heard from the Heart stamp sets, Taken with Teal and Close to Cocoa classic ink, Taken with Teal, Soft Sky, and Close to Cocoa card stock, and that mystery paper of which I don’t know the name.

Like the first card, I used only paper and ink in this card. I wanted to manipulate the striped paper to create a frame; I wanted to have the short ends of the stripes all around (instead of having two sides which show only a single stripe) and I wanted them to line up at the corners, so I mitered the corners and was pleasantly relieved when the fourth side lined up. I didn’t want to detract from the simplicity of the saying or the mat I made for it (since it did take a little bit of time), so I kept the layout pretty basic.

Recipe: Sidekick Sayings stamp set (All Natural stamp set for the envelope), Close to Cocoa and Taken with Teal classic ink, Taken with Teal, Close to Cocoa, and Soft Sky cardstock, the mystery paper, Blue Leopard patterned paper, sponges, and dimensional spots.

One Page Wonder Challenge

2010-03-31T06:00:00.000-06:00

At Card Club in February we were given a single sheet of 12”x12” Stampin’ Up! Designer Series Paper. With it we were to create cards (however many was up to us) utilizing this paper. Here are the two sides of mine:

(I have no idea what this paper is called; I looked everywhere and cannot find it. If you know what it is, then please let me know…just for sanity’s sake. It has various brown stripes on one side and multi-colored polka dots on the other.)

I think “challenge” was an understatement; I wasn’t exactly sure what I was going to do. I decided that I would make as many cards as I could (since they will all be donated to the Ronald McDonald House for use by its residents). Over the next few days I will be sharing these various cards with you.

To begin, here is my monochromatic card: all browns:

I was able to work with the striped side of the paper and added a little bit of many different aspects: dry embossing, ribbon, heat embossing, and sponging (what would a project be without a little sponging, right?). I wanted to show that you don’t need to have every color in the rainbow to creative an intriguing card.

Recipe: Four Square stamp set, Close to Cocoa classic ink, Versamark craft ink, Close to Cocoa and Chocolate Chip card stock, Mystery Paper (I wish I knew the name of it…), square scallop punch, scissors, Flirty Ribbon Originals, sponges, and dimensional spots.

March W'ink

2010-03-30T06:00:00.000-06:00

The March meeting of the W’ink Stamp Club was an ordeal…to say the least. Overnight, Sharon received lots and lots of snow which questioned whether we would all be able to make it out to her home. With the volunteering of her home, we were able to have it here in town at the home of one of the lovely ladies in club.

On of the techniques we learned was the shaving cream technique; I have been so intrigued by this technique, but had never done it. It was so much fun to swirl the colors and the “just mush” our papers in it. I was a bit apprehensive as I looked at the mound of shaving cream sitting on my paper (what was it going to look like underneath…), but the wait was worth it when I scraped away the goo to reveal a truly one of a kind pattern.

A rose by any other name…

2010-03-29T06:00:00.001-06:00

Where to start; where to start?

We received our W’ink challenge for March’s club: Purple and Green…that was it. Pretty much, we could do whatever we wanted as long as the focus was on purple and green. Because old habits die hard, I mentally “shelved” it for three weeks…not only because I am a big procrastinator, but also because I had not clue what I was going to do. Monday before club rolled around and I realized that I had five days to figure something out to bring to club. As I was trying to sleep my mind was racing through different card ideas/layouts/etc, but none of them gave me that big “light bulb” moment.

A couple nights of that brings us to Thursday afternoon. I decided to skip the gym and focus the whole evening on not only figuring out what I was going to do, but also executing it. I had thought of a few ideas during the day and sketched them out when I got home (sketching and coloring in the middle of an accounting department isn’t looked to kindly upon). Something wasn’t right: yes, they were all fine, but fine was just not good enough. My mind kept going back to flowers…purple flowers…green leaves…purple flowers…green leaves, but I kept dismissing it (for some reason, I don’t know why). I finally embraced the purple flowers/green leaves idea, but knew I wanted to try something new; I did have all evening to do it. I remembered seeing Gretchen’s post about hand-made roses and thought that maybe I could do something like that, but I wasn’t sure. (Ok, side-note: so in case you haven’t notice, I am not very decisive; something which drives my sweet husband crazy; I need to work on that) After some inner debate, I decided to use the roses and make a pull-out pot card which seemed to be everywhere a while back.

I went to Gretchen’s blog and realized that she got the paper rose idea from someone else (yes, this surprised me since I think she is amazingly creative and inginuitive). After following the trail, I found the instructions to the rose on Julie William’s Blog Simi Stamper. I read over it and thought, “I can do that.” I noticed the steps were similar to making fondant roses from my cake decorating classes and I was pretty good at that, so how much more difficult could this be, right? Oh, so wrong. I realized (and maybe I knew it all along, but just didn’t want to admit it) that paper is not as cooperative as soft fondant. Anyway, long story short (I know: too late) I was able to get four purple roses complete and added them to the rest of my pot card.

I really like the way it turned out; I do think the pot was missing something (it looks a bit bare to me), but knew that if I added something to it, then it may detract from the roses which, after all the effort I put into them, were definitely the focus. If you have some time, try making some paper roses; though they are a bit daunting, I think the final result is very worth it…especially if it is for someone well deserving.

Now if I can find a way to do it without using so much Crystal Effects…that would be great!

Recipe: Whimsical Words and Itty Bitty Background stamp sets, Creamy Caramel and Pale Plum cardstock, Old Olive designer paper, Lovely Lilac, Old Olive, Creamy Caramel, and Close to Cocoa classic ink, sponges, sticky strip, crystal effects, and flower punch (oh, and lots and lots of patience).

Masculine Birthday

2010-03-28T14:30:00.000-06:00

Have you ever gotten into a crafting rut? Sometimes I find myself doing the same thing over and over again; it takes an outside influence to snap me out of it. That is the case with the swap theme for March’s Card Club; the theme being “masculine birthday.” This is not what worried me; what did worry me was that it was “suggested” that we not use any ribbon, flowers, etc. on our card. Though I do not completely agree with the banishment of such accents (for example, I think that ribbon, used in the correct manner, can be masculine) I thought I would do my best with the guidelines.

Recently I have been taking what precious spare “crafting” time I have available to see what everyone else has been up to with their crafting; I think this card is the culmination of all of that “research.” I have seen so many projects with only opposite corners rounded and am glad that I was able to take advantage of that “new” shape. Also, color is so much fun for me; I fell in love with Soft Suede when Stampin’ Up! introduced it last year and enjoy seeing it used with various colors. I saw it used with Certainly Celery and Night of Navy and thought it was so striking a combo that I wanted to use it myself; adding the Bashful Blue, I thought, brought just the right balance to the darkness of the rest of the card. Among other things, I have seen lately a vast use of oversized background stamping; I had this birthday background set and thought it took advantage of this recent trend. Finally: embossing – who doesn’t like embossing? I thought this helped to keep the colors coherent and not detract from the overall look.

One last thought on this card: my original plan was to have another “rectangle” in the lower corner in So Saffron; I asked my husband what he thought and he said that it, “makes it too girly.” What do you think? Would you have added the saffron?

Oh, ok…there is one more thing (sorry): since I am usually in such a rush most of the time, I do not always note from where my ideas/inspirations come. If you see an aspect in my design/project (or any other project) which looks like something you created (and I hadn’t given you credit already for it), then let me know and I will be sure to recognize the oversight; I apologize in advance.

Recipe: Happy Birthday Greetings and Four Square stamp sets, Night of Navy, Bashful Blue, Certainly Celery, and Soft Suede card stock, Versamark ink, Crystal Clear embossing powder, corner rounder punch, 1¼” square punch, heat tool, and dimensional spots.

Not just another cupcake…

2010-03-27T06:00:00.000-06:00

Our challenge for February’s Card Club was to make “anything but a card.” It took me weeks to figure out what I wanted to make and still, that was a long shot. I really could not think of anything. Actually, that is not true: I thought of many things, but nothing of which I wanted to make nine to swap. I started surfing the crafting super-highway and came upon a string of posts: one lead to another who referenced another who got her idea from someone else…and on…and on…and on – each tweaking or adding something to make her cupcake unique. By the time I got to it, it was a container which held treats (as is my cupcake), but the top was wrapped with twisted paper to simulate piped icing. I decided to, instead, cover the top with some white fleece I had and then add a red cherry to the top (some cherries were brads covered with red mulberry paper where others where clear buttons backed with the same red mulberry paper). I think they turned out so cute…almost like real cupcakes.

(I placed all of the different cupcakes in my cupcake holder...

I thought it was absolutely adorable!)

Granted, I fell in love with my cupcakes and hoped that everyone at club would too. I was so surprised and the different types of items created for the swap. Check out Anne’s blog to see all the different items. Which is your favorite? Let me know and after a bit I will post what mine is.

Got Milk?

2010-03-26T06:00:00.001-06:00

Ever since I saw this template hit the “crafting scene,” I wasn’t exactly sure why it appealed to so many people and why someone would want to purchase it (probably because I couldn’t see that many diverse uses for it). At February’s W’ink club, Sharon demonstrated this adorable little (and I do mean little) milk carton template. Though it did take a little time to determine where to put the adhesive and what folds under and what folds upward…granted, it was our own fault since we were doing a little chatting while she was showing us…I think it turned out fantastic. She provided us some mini M&Ms for inside our cartons.

What do I think of it now? Well, I do think that this project was fantastic and I have seen others which were equally creative, but overall I don’t think my opinion of the milk carton has changed much: I think it is cute, but I don’t see the application of it for different occasions. Let me know if you think I am way off base with this; in this instance, I would love to be proven wrong.

I love waterfalls

2010-03-25T06:00:00.002-06:00

…not just the beautiful waterfalls found in nature, but also waterfall cards. For the longest time they fascinated me so much: I loved receiving them and watching the different panels flip over and back and over again. I decided I would figure out how to make them; many (many, many, many, and still many more) YouTube tutorials later (thank you to everyone who posts videos…I love watching them) I thought I had a pretty good handle on what I needed to do – it didn’t hurt that one tutorial actually listed out all of the pieces I needed with measurements.

Ever since my first attempt, I can’t seem to make enough of them.

Here are two examples that I received recently: one is for Valentine’s Day from my mother and the other is from a fellow stamp clubber (she made them as her “favorite technique” in for our January card club). I love them both; the diverseness adds to notion that they can be used for anything. What will be next? Oh…I just got an idea…I’ll need to find a reason to make it now….

This is so exciting!

11 Years of Dating!

2010-03-24T07:26:00.004-06:00

That’s right – on this day eleven years ago my husband and I went on our first date. And after all this time, even now that we are married, he still takes me out on dates. He is the best ever; I am so blessed.

Two Fresh Cards

2010-03-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

Honestly, I do not know from where these cards came (I sincerely apologize if either of them are from you), but I love them. I was “reacquainted” with them as I was sorting through my office; I was surprised how they both made me think of citrus though they are completely different: the boho style of the one contrasting the picnic style of the other. It blows my mind to think that two so diverse cards could be made with, basically, the same color palate and evoke the same overall feel.

What do you think? Do you get the same feeling as I did?

Happy St. Patrick’s Day

2010-03-22T06:00:00.000-06:00

I know I am a bit late…for 2010, but just think of it as 51 weeks early for 2011!
My sister sent me this ‘Patty’s Day package a few weeks ago and I love it! She prepares holiday treats for her son’s (my nephew) class and make a few extra for me.

The “Happy St. Patrick’s Day Tube” is actually a mini M&M tube (complete with candies) that she covered with a festive label and tied with ribbon. The “Pinch Proof Medallions” are attached to gold…well, gold Werther’s Originals candies (you can never find those chocolate gold coins when you need them). Finally, an adorably simple card: not too “over the top ‘Patty’s Day”…just the way I like it.

As always, “Thanks, I love it!”

Ode to All Natural

2010-03-21T06:00:00.004-06:00

During one of my “cleaning” spells in my office, I located these two cards which I thought were great depictions of how a card doesn’t have to be filled with bows, flowers, or “cutsie-ness.”

This is a thank you card from my mother, Susan. She and my father joined myself, my husband, and our two girls (ok, technically they are our two dogs, but as any of you who have dogs know: they are just like kids) in the Pecos Forest for a quiet and relaxing weekend. I think she must have used at least four different sets, but they all work well together and create a natural and creative card.

This a Christmas card from Sharon. What is more fitting than a pine bough with some strategically place cones? I love the simplicity of this mini note card and its use of negative space. Sharon’s well edited and reserved eye is so well exemplified in this card.

I love them both!

Smells like a nice gift

2010-03-20T18:17:00.002-06:00

January card club was a time for some creating with a few new products. Anne offered us bottles of reed diffusers to decorate (my flavor was Fresh Mist) with rub-ons and a little “bling.” She also provided us with a pattern and coordinating designer paper for a gift container. We were also introduced to elastic cording, mini envelopes, and the “clear-mount” stamps by Stampin’ Up!

Thanks Anne.

Ronald McDonald Challenge

2010-03-14T21:47:00.002-06:00

At January’s card club we were given two packages of supplies with which to create cards for the Ronald McDonald House Charity. Here are the results of my two kits:

Purple Paradise

This kit included the white card base, the lilac panel, the black panel, and the smaller white panel. What to make…what to make…. I had recently purchased two stamp sets which seemed to coordinate well with each other, so I thought I would give them a go. Wanting to stay true to this challenge, I wanted to stick with the supplies provided as well as I could; I moved some pieces around and came up with this straight forward layout. After looking at it for a bit, I knew it needed something more, but I couldn’t figure out what. It took a bit longer, but then I recognized another card’s layout in this…it was from Halloween time. I loved it then and I love it now: all I need is some ribbon and a grommet and I was set.

Recipe: Vintage Vogue and Vintage Labels stamp sets, Basic Black, Whisper White, Very Vanilla, and Lovely Lilac card stock, Basic Grey, Lovely Lilac, and Versamark Ink, large white grommet, wide black organdy ribbon, ½”circle punch, sponges, black embossing powder, heat embosser, Lovely Lilac Stamp-n-write marker, and dimensional spots.

Seeing Stripes

This pack contained a completely different group of pieces (for one, there were lots more, and two, nothing “clicked” at all): navy, red, green, yellow, white, confetti…holy cow (I was certain Anne set out to drive me up the wall with this combo)! It took some time, but I determined that the best theme for this would be a natural one. Most of the pieces layered really well together (yup…that is 5 layers on that center panel), but doing so left me with so many small pieces. What to do with these? I wanted to use them, but how? I cut them into various strips and aligned them around the edge. Something was still off with that center panel: the words I used seemed a bit narrow for the space (since they did end up going all the way to the top and bottom), so I added a bit of twine to fill the empty space. A bit of sponging around all the edges tied in all of the rough edges.

Recipe: Sidekick Sayings and All Natural stamp sets, Ruby Red, Old Olive, More Mustard, and Not Quite Navy classic inc, Ruby Red, Old Olive, More Mustard, and Not Quite Navy, Confetti White, and Whisper White cardstock, hemp twine, dimensional spots, sponges, and Not Quite Navy Stamp-n-write marker.

Chilly Friends

2010-01-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

I ask you this: what is better than getting new stamps? Getting new stamps as a gift! I received this new stamp set as a Christmas present this year; I was thrilled. What I like about it is that it really shows how much the giver (you know who you are…and thanks again) really knows what type of stamping I like.

I thought I would break in my new set by making a card (for no reason whatsoever). It was pretty cold here in town (and we got some really wet snow one night), so it was a perfect match. I really liked the way it turned out. I didn’t want it to open in a typical way, so I used a modified two-fold card (I hope you can see this ok in the picture).

I have to share a funny story about this card: the stamp set comes with several characters, some accessories, and a section of ice. I knew that I wanted the characters sitting on the ice, but I knew they wouldn’t fit all on one. In order to emphasize the saying on the inside, “I get by with a little help from my friends,” it didn’t make sense to me to have them all on different pieces. I broke out some post-its (another of my favorite inventions) and decided to mask the edges of the ice to create one large piece out of the small pieces. This was great; I got it all stamped…one large piece for all the chilly friends to share. Here is the ironic part…when I placed the friends on the ice I realized that even if I didn’t go through all the trouble of masking the edges, you wouldn’t be able to see where they overlapped anyway because the inside edges would have been covered by the creatures. Ugh…all that work for nothing! Oh well, I know (and now you know) the main goal, so I suppose that is all that matters.

Recipe: Cold & Cuddly, Beyond Basics, and Sage Advice stamp sets, Cool Caribbean, Taken with Teal, and Winter White cardstock, Cool Caribbean, Perfect Plum, Basic Grey, and Taken with Teal classic ink, Versamark inc, Winter White embossing powder, heat tool, Flirty Ribbon Originals, Stamp-a-ma-jig, post-it, Taken with Teal stamp-n-write marker, sponges, and dimensional spots.

More than just a crafting event...

2010-01-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

I was able to attend Sharon’s open house/hostess appreciation event. It was a lot of fun to see some friends from W’ink I hadn’t seen in a bit (since the holidays put our meeting on hold for a couple months) and to laugh like we normally do as well as try out some of Stampin’ Up!’s new products from the Occasional Mini and the Sale-a-bration. We made a progressive scrapbook page using some new designer paper (I love that designer paper…), the new decorative edge and corner punches, and the red cordory button/brads. We also got to practice our detail cutting with the “Totally Tess” stamp set; we cut out her pants and shirt as well as her bag with each of the stamping tools separately and then combined them to create a card with depth and interest. We finished up with another card; this one uses that lovely designer paper, another new edge punch, the new wide satin ribbon, and a new way to apply glitter (what a nice and straight band of glitter…I love that stick-strip).

From the creative projects to the wonderful company, it was a enjoyable afternoon. Thanks Sharon! Take some time to look at Sharon's Blog Designs by Sharon for some more

fun ideas.

Message in a Bottle

2010-01-29T06:00:00.001-07:00

It is always nice to get a little something, don’t you think? I received a little not from Anne, one of my Stampin’ Up! demonstrators. She could have put it in a card or in a letter, but no, she made it into a little treat. This is one of the mini soda bottles filled with crumpled up strips of paper with the note twisted up inside. It was my very own “message in a bottle” (ok, so I watched that movie on Lifetime the other night…).

Thanks, Anne; what a great idea! Take a few moments and check out Anne's Blog Stamping with Blue Moon Creations to see some of the other creative surprises on which she has been working.

My Favorite Technique

2010-01-28T16:38:00.007-07:00

I have been meaning to post this for a little while, actually, ever since I made it. Thank you to all those who left their suggestions as to which technique I should try for my stamp club challenge card. It was a tough decision, but after a lot of pondering and eliminating, I think I have determined what my favorite technique is. Can you guess? Need a hint? Here is the card:

Do you think you got it? Well, if you guessed “sponging,” then you are correct! Previously, I used this technique to add depth and dimension to the edges of cards or popping color on stamped images (not to mention the chalkboard technique…ooo, I like that one too).

I love (love, love, love, love, love) the way this card turned out. I took sponging to a whole different level (for me at least). The front panel of this card is a white piece of cardstock…that’s right: white! The two leafless trees in the foreground are stamped, but everything else – the mountains, the distant trees, the rolling hills, and the sky – is all sponged.

I cannot take all of the credit for this card; I received inspiration from another stamper I came across while on my “favorite technique” hunt: Michelle Zindorf at Freedom in Creating. She created this card using the direct to paper technique with stamp pads. I tried it, but realized it was probably time to re-ink my stamps because they didn’t create much color on the paper. It is at that point that I thought I would try sponging it…and voila, a card is born.

This card also includes several other of my favorite aspects of cards (they aren’t really techniques): layering and dimension. I do so love to layer…pretty much everything. The card front is actually six layers thick (not counting the word box): picture, black, blue, black, yellow, and black (you can’t really see this last layer in the photo). Oh, and by the way, each layer is has the edges sponges…I just couldn’t help myself. I continued this to the inside of the card with a few more layers there. The layering adds to the dimension of the card: from the word box being popped out (with a couple layers of its own) to the dry embossed blue layer of the mat…I do so love it all.

Recipe: Branch Out and Sage Advice stamp sets, Whisper White, Brocade Blue, Basic Black, and So Saffron cardstock, Basic Black, Basic Grey, Brocade Blue, Old Olive, More Mustard, Certainly Celery, Always Artichoke, and So Saffron classic inc, Branches embossing folder, sponges (lots of these), dimensional spots, and lots of time.

Ah...that's nice.

2010-01-28T10:21:00.001-07:00

Is it just me or is there just not enough time in the day to get everything accomplished? It seems that the first thing that gets put aside is updating my blog…and I am sorry if you follow me and don’t get to see new posts regularly. I was able to work on a few items the past few days and will get them posted within a day or so.

What a busy lives we live, huh?

Have I mentioned that Daisies are my favorite flower? Have you noticed that once in a while you see something and it makes you pause for a moment and think, “Ah, that’s nice.”? I saw this picture and fell in love with it…I hope you like it too.

Help!

2010-01-21T13:15:00.002-07:00

I have a stamp club meeting this weekend and need to create a card for the card swap with the theme: use your favorite technique. I thought this would be an easy choice, but it turns out that it is not. So, I am throwing this question out: what is your favorite stamping/crafting technique? I have so many that it is difficult to pick just one (or even two).

Any help would be greatly appreciated!