Back Woods

This is the card I made for Julee Tilman's sketch contest today. I've been dying to get some ink on these awesome new stamps from Rubber Soul's Holiday Catalog (Winter Wonderland). I love this clear set because it's full of Christmas themed stamps AND fun 'woodsy' stamps. My husband and boys both LOVE to camp. My husband's the kind of guy who loves watching Survivor Man on TV and camping in 20 below... just to see if he can come out alive. He's insane. I think he owns every type of survival gadget known to man. So when I saw this set, I knew I would be getting a lot of use out of it. I'm sure you'll be seeing several posts in the future with this cute little tent in them.

To make this card, I stamped multiple trees directly onto my card -- and then cut out and adhered a few more trees to give it a little dimension. I used my Copic markers to create the sky and ground, blending them with my colorless blender. I 'had' to put a little sparkle onto the card, so I colored the tent and flames with Stickles glitter.

The 'Camping' road sign is a dimensional sticker from K&Co (Happy Trails Camping Ground Adhesion). This set is jammed packed full of the CUTEST camping themed accessories. The ribbon is from Michaels.

(Card Dimensions: 5 1/2 x 5 1/2)

Vroom! Vroom!

This is another card that I made during Paper Pretties' 'Stampin In Your Jammies' virtual stamp night. The challenge was to use 'sewing' on your project (faux or real). I LOVE using my sewing machine on my cards, so this was a blast! I don't have anything fancy, just and old machine set on regular fabric settings.

I got this fabulous bella image from my friend Kristine! There's just something about the Bella images. I just love them! :) I colored most of it with Copics, but added details with my Silver Prismacolor Pencil. I glitzed it up with lots of Stickles and my Sakura Stardust pen. Oh... and I also used lots of shiny clear gemstones to add even more bling!

Have you seen Paper Pretties' Corner Store lately? There are TONS of new products... from MFT (My Favorite Things) sets to bling and even Copics. There is still so much more to come! You've got to check it out! If you've ever been interested in the PP Card Class in a Box Kits, you should take a peek at the Limited Edition Boxes. You don't have to commit to a subscription --- just add it to your cart in the store. It's a HUGE box filled with stamps, paper, accessories, and full instructions. If you like what you see, you can always decide to become a subscriber later. And.... don't forget that Paper Pretties Subscribers receive 10% off of EVERYTHING in the store (+ 20% off of 'Suggested Add-On's)

Don't forget about my Rubber Soul blog candy listed below! I will pick a winner on Saturday!

** patterned paper by Crate Paper (Zoom Collection)**

The Life That is Waiting for Us

*Don't forget to sign up for my blog candy from my previous post!!!*

This is the 'sister card' from my earlier post. I wanted to try out this sketch, and I still had out all of my supplies. Shocker! :) Isn't this sentiment awesome?!? It's another quote from Rubber Soul. They have the best variety of sentiments that I've seen. I also wanted to finally try out my new Papertrey Ink set (Beautiful Blooms). I thought the Cosmo Cricket paper went so well with the floral stamps. If you look very closely, I also stamped smaller flowers onto the red panel with Versamark. It's very subtle, but gives a nice backdrop when you see it in person.

I wanted the large flower to look like a medallion, so I adhered it to a large metal tag and colored the edges with Copics. I also added some paper piercing around the edges.

My boys need to get in bed, so I've got to make this one short! More will be coming soon!!!

Are you dreaming about MORE BLOG CANDY!?!?!

Can I just tell you what an awesome time I've been having lately? I'm living out my dream, baby! I LOVE being a designer. The people I've come to know are some of the best! I don't know if you have been with me since the beginning of the summer, but I posted that I had some big goals. I wanted to be on a design team and I wanted to get published. I had no idea that part of that dream would come true so soon. My ultimate goal is to somehow make paper crafting my career. I'm not quite sure how to get there, but I hope I'm on the right path. Being able to do what I love every day and help support my family would be heaven!

When I saw this quote on Rubber Soul's website, I knew I had to have it. The stamp reads "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." --- Eleanor Roosevelt. I truly believe in what these words say.

Don't you just love this paper? I got this from Lindsey at Jacksonbelle Embellishments. (Cosmo Cricket - Gretel) It goes perfectly with Ruby Red, Chocolate Chip, and Sage Shadow (by SU). I don't know why, but I never liked Sage Shadow before recently. Now... I LOVE IT! It looks so good when you distress it with a little Sahara Sand ink too.

I didn't have any large brads the right color, so I used a Copic marker to change a yellow brad to a wood-toned shade. I heat set it just a bit to lock in the color.

So.... are you interested in some more awesome Blog Candy???? How about this clear Wedding set by Rubber Soul??? :) All you have to do is leave me a comment (with your name!) telling me about one of your dreams. It can be about anything! But please, either subscribe to my blog or add me to your Google Reader so you won't miss a future post revealing the winner. I always hate having blog candy sitting here lonely with no one to claim it! I will draw a random winner on Saturday.... so drop me a line!

A Very Veggie Bella

Oh my gosh! We had so much fun last night stamping in our jammies! I'm a little tired this morning, but it was worth it! (Stampin' In Your Jammies is a virtual stamp night for subscribers to Paper Pretties Card Kits). I have a couple more fun cards to show you later this week too!

The first challenge last night was a sketch challenge. I love having a sketch to go by. It always makes cardmaking so much simpler! This sketch was really cute - so I'll have to remember it for another time.

I've had this DP by Karen Foster (Veggie Stripes) since the beginning of the year and haven't had anything great to use it with yet. This Veggiebella came in my August Paper Pretties kit and was PERFECT! I colored her in with Copics and voila!

Paper Pretties has a SIYJ night once a month (complete with prizes!!!!) If you want to hang out with us in September just go to the website and become a subscriber. You can chose from a Bella kit OR a My Favorite Things kit. Get the newest released sets and accessories before anyone else! And... don't forget that subscribers get 10-20% off of anything from the Corner Store. Keep your eye on the store because it's about ready to explode with TONS of new and great products!

There are two selections for you to choose from:

The Paper Pretties Petite Package which is $19.95 USD (plus shipping & handling and applicable taxes)

This package will include:

• instructions and a color printed picture of the card design
• enough pre-cut printed paper to duplicate the card design 6 times
• 6 pre-cut cards
• enough embellishments to duplicate the card design 6 times (embellishments may include but are not limited to brads, eyelets, chipboard, glitter, gems, flowers, etc) PLEASE NOTE: embellishments may vary from month to month
• one stamp or stamp set (depending on the company's package you choose).
• 6 envelopes

The Paper Pretties Premium Package which is $39.95 USD (plus shipping & handling and applicable taxes) and will include:

• 8 pieces of 8 1/2 x 11 pieces of card stock OR 6 pieces of 12x12 card stock
• 5 pieces of 12 x 12 printed card stock
• 2 pieces of specialty card stock (8 1/2 x 11 OR 12 x 12)
• 4 pieces of ultra smooth white card stock
• full package or packages of embellishments(quantity of embellishments may vary depending on card design)
• 2 yards each of 3 different types of ribbon - 6 yards in total
• 6 envelopes
• 1 stamp or stamp set (depending on stamp company box choice)
• 1 sentiment stamp (depending on stamp company box choice)
• 1 small paper crafting tool or accessory
• Color printed picture of Paper Pretties Card Design and instructions

It's a Slumber Party!!!

I'm so excited! Tonight will be my first time to 'virtually stamp' with some of my new friends at Paper Pretties! Stampin' In Your Jammies is a monthly get-together for all of the PP subscribers. It runs tonight from 9-12 EST. Each hour, a new challenge is posted and we get 60 minutes to complete it. Then, everyone uploads and shares what they've created with the group. Of course, there is a lot of chatting going on and the best part..... AWESOME PRIZES are given away. I think it's going to be a blast! SIYJ is just one of the perks of being a subscriber to the Paper Pretties Card Kits. I hope to see you there tonight!

I also wanted to say 'thank you!' to all of you who commented on my Rubber Soul & Wordsworth blog candy post. It was so fun to hear what everyone's favorite stamps were. A lot of you commented that the Funky Monkey stamp was one of your top picks, so I decided to make a simple card using that image.

I just love this little guy! He reminds me of those old sock monkeys we had growing up. I thought this sentiment from Papertrey Ink fit him pretty well. The font is just so cute and simple! The striped paper I used was from K & Co's Kazoo Kids line. I had an 'aha!' moment when I noticed how my Cuttlebug embossing folder mimicked the shape of my embellishment (Hodgepodge Hardware, SU). I used my sewing machine and added some stitching... and then just gave it some antiquing by rubbing on some Sahara Sand ink. So easy! :)

Rubber Soul & Wordsworth Blog Candy Winners!

Yeah! We have a couple of winners!!! Each person will receive a set of Clearly Wordsworth stamps - courtesy of Dani @ Rubber Soul. Can I just say that not only is this a WONDERFUL company, it is full of remarkable people! Please check my blog daily! I have so much candy coming your way! Hope you have a sweet tooth!

So... congratulations Jacqueline and Christie! Please e-mail me your information and I'll get these right out to you!

Jacqueline said...

Wow--I'm so glad you encouraged us to visit the site, which, by the way, I've never been to before and all I can say is WOW! They really do have some amazing, cute, beautiful and fun stamp sets. I had to bookmark the site to go back later to do a little shopping:)! Anyways, I think that my favorite set is "I'm So Glad"--I like the versatility of the set, and I LOVE the font that is used for the sayings. That one will be bought--for sure! Thank you for your great blog and inspiring us every day with your creations.

Christie said...

Thanks for the contest! I love the Clearly Wordsworth Lyrical Love clear set, all of the script and sayings stamps (the fonts are incredible), and pretty much everything on this site! I have a lot of items to put on my wish list! :)

I'm Getting Punchy!

Today's Blogger's Challenge was to incorporate PUNCHES into your project. I Luuuuuhhhvvv punches, so this was really a 'challenge' for me. ;) Don't forget to check out the other member's challenge cards! (see my side bar for links) The sketch that I followed was one of Beate's a while back. I finally had a chance to try it out!

The little bat is by Rubber Soul (Happy Bat). I think he has the cutest little face! I used a slit punch to create the reverse scalloped edge on the bottom of the card. Doesn't it look just like the bat's wings? Ah! I love it when things all come together!

Here are the punches I used on this set:
Marvy Giga Scalloped Oval
Marvy Mega Oval
SU Horizontal Slot Punch
SU Slit Punch
SU Square Punch

The yummy orange notecard is also by Rubber Soul (California Poppy). I was SO happy that I still have my Marigold Morning SU ink pad from last year! It matches perfectly! I used scraps of MM Cardstock to make tiny paper strips on the card... and for the sentiment. The sentiment is by SU (Booglie Eyes). Oh! I also used Papertrey Ink's Border and Corner Oval Set to frame my bat.

Oh Baby!

Don't Forget! You have 1 more day to sign up for my blog candy!

I love blog candy! I love to give it... and I LOVE to get it! I am not a lucky person though. I've probably tried to win candy from other people's blogs about a gazillion times. So, that's why it was such a shock when I found out that I had actually WON something! Meridith from Lizzie Anne Designs sent me this ADORABLE stamp set called 'Oh Baby!'. I am really starting to get into Lizzie Anne stamps. The art work is just my style! They come in the cutest packaging too. All of the stamps are rubber, mounted on EZ mount, and come stored in a clear CD case. I love using these kinds of stamps --- Just place on an acrylic blog and go! You can save so much space without having to use the wood blocks.

I really liked the simplicity of the onesie. I decided to start my design based off of that, so i free-handed a template. I stamped one of the sentiments in the middle and added a little glitter with a Sakura Stardust Pen (Can you believe I am still using the same pen?!? I use this for everything... and it's still got a lot of life left in it!).

I used CS from Stampin' Up's In Color line (texturized Blue Bayou & Soft Sky) and patterned paper from Crate Paper (Baby Bee). I love how Crate Paper's paper is so heavy and double sided! I only needed one sheet for all of this, because one side is solid and the other is patterned. I stamped random images from the stamp set onto the golden side of the printed paper using Sahara Sand ink. You can find Crate Paper's Baby Bee Collection now at Paper Pretties Corner Store!

I used my sewing machine to add stitching to the onesie and to the side of the card. No special machine... just the one I bought at Walmart 10 years ago for my sewing projects.

I made tiny buttons on the bottom of the onesie by punching a few circles (3/16" punch) and piercing them with a needle.

The ric rack is also from Crate Paper (Baby Bee Ribbon Collection).

Now I just need to know someone who's having a baby shower. :)

My First Paper Pretties Card Kit!!!

Ok. Can I just be honest here? I am a snobby stamper. :) I like things a certain way. I can't handle it when paper is cut crooked... when ink is smeared... when there is a lack of 'design'. I like things 'perfect'.... or at least perfect in my eyes. :)

So... my first Paper Pretties Card Kit Package arrived a few days ago. Everything comes in the cutest little 'pizza box'... and arrived in about 1 week! This kit is the August Bella Box Package. I've been busy and finally got to dive in today.

I decided that I was going to go strictly by the directions and just see what these kits were all about. As the card started to come together, I started to get excited! First of all, I LOVE the paper! Everything comes pre-cut and scored. (And... the paper was cut to perfection!) The patterned paper is by Basic Grey's Infuse line. It's beautiful... and new... and yummy! The colors are all of my favorites! Plus, I've been eyeing this Veggiebella ever since it was released. The accessories are top notch! I just LOVE these garden charms and the brown gingham ribbon! The solid colored cardstock is all textured. Every detail was carefully thought out. All I had to add was a little color and adhesive! It makes cardmaking SO easy and fun!

The kit comes with all the supplies I need to make 6 cards (including envelopes)! I left the sentiment off so that I can use it for any occasion. If I need a birthday card, I'll just stamp a few words and the card will be complete! Love it! My box is the smallest box available, so I can't imagine what all the large box contains! Seriously - I endorse this company whole-heartedly!

Plus... subscribers of Paper Pretties have a lot of perks!

-10% discount on all purchases from the Members Only Shopping Area
-20% discount on the 'Suggested Add-Ons' each month from the Members Only Shopping Area
-Access to the Members Only Card Gallery (including designs from the Card of the Week & the Paper Pretties Design Team)
-The option of starting your own gallery to showcase your artwork
-The opportunity to be a guest designer
-Membership to the Paper Pretties Yahoo Group
-Participate monthly in "Stampin' In Your Jammies", our virtual stamp night!
-Monthly Members Only contests and giveaways!
-Exclusive, Members Only sales, specials and swaps!

And of course, receive a fabulous Card Kit Package delivered to your door every month!

Want to find out more? Go visit Paper Pretties! www.paperpretties.net

You Make My World Go 'Round!

I wish you could see this card in person! I am really happy that it actually 'turned out' how I envisioned! :) Yeah! More about this in a second!

This is a card I made with some more stamps from Rubber Soul. (By the way - Make sure you post on the posting below to win a free stamp set!) The lion image is from THE CUTEST set of stamps called A Day At the Zoo. You can also get the stamp individually on a wood block, but once you check out the clear set, you'll fall in love with all of the little critters! And, if you can't see it from the pic, the sentiment reads "You make my world go 'round". As soon as I saw this sentiment, I knew exactly what I wanted to do!

This card is interactive! The lions and the wheel turn in a circle! Isn't this too fun!?! To make this work, I cut out three circles (2 smaller green ones and 1 larger blue one). I attached one green circle to the large blue circle by using dimensionals (or pop up dots). Then I placed the second green circle behind the blue circle. I placed a brad through all three layers. Finally, I adhered the 'hidden' circle to the card base. Ta da! (I hope you guys followed this!) :)

Now for some more details:
I wanted to make the green circle look like a 'gear'. To do this, I just used a paper punch and went around the outside of the circle, only punching half-circles. I added a little design to it by stamping with Papertrey's Border & Corners Circle set. I added paper piercing to both circles. The flower in the center is from American Crafts Greenhouse Felt Flowers collection.

The sentiment was punched out by using SU's large oval punch. I just love this punch! I use it all the time! :)

The patterned paper is from Rubber Soul's Hoop-La Collection. Actually, I also used this paper to make my circles. I love how all of their paper packs come with solid paper that coordinates with the patterned paper. Actually, one sheet of paper contains 4 color blocks. It's hard to explain, so if you want to see it, just click on the link. I'm a very visual person! :)

This was a really fun card to make! I think it's the first card I've made with moving parts! You should try it! :)

Howdy Partners! I've Wrestled Up Some More Blog Candy!

Do you have a sweet tooth? I've got some pretty tasty blog candy! Don't you just LOVE these stick people from Wordsworth stamps? There's just something about them that I can't resist! So if you're like me, resist no more! I'm offering up NOT ONE BUT TWO sets of Clearly Wordsworth stamps!!! Whoo Hoo!
What do you have to do to WIN this fabulous prize? :) Just leave a comment ON THIS POST telling me what your favorite stamp or stamp set is from Rubber Soul & Wordsworth. Click Here to see the entire collection! Now, no cheating! I'll know something is up if everyone picks the same stamp! ;) But in all honesty, there are SO many wonderful stamps on their site. You really need to go take a look. I will randomly draw 2 names on Friday!!! (ps. -- please make sure you don't post as 'anonymous' when you comment. I can't figure out who you are if you win! Just click 'other' and type in your name and e-mail address - and that would be great!)

For this card, I used my Clearly Wordsworth Stick People set. I paper pieced her dress and added sparkle to her fringe with a Sakura Stardust glitter pen. The ribbon is slipped through openings made by SU's slot & tab punches. Paper is by Crate Paper's Cowboy Collection.

I'm Under Your Spell! (& a Blog Candy WINNER!)

I'm getting to play with some new Rubber Soul stamps and having a ball! I've always loved their stamps, but I had no idea how CUTE their paper was too! Their paper comes double sided (which I LOVE) and is packed with fantastic designs! This bubbly paper was from their 'Shake it Up!' collection. I kept debating if it was too 'Christmasy', but I thought it was a perfect print to add a background to the bubbling cauldron.

Do you recognize this stamp? It's from SU's Like it a Latte set. I thought it would make a perfect 'brew'! ;) I just inked up the stamp, eliminating the coffee mug handle. The raccoon is too cute, holding his book of 'tricks'! (Rubber Soul - Ricky Raccoon) The sentiment is also from Rubber Soul (I'm Under Your Spell).

And now for the winner of the Paper Pretties $20 gift certificate!!!
Silvergirl said...
Hi! I just found you!! Wonderful blog and congratulations on your design posts. That's wonderful!I subscribed to keep in the loop.
Thanks,lisa

So.... Lisa! Congratulations! Please e-mail me to get the details! julie_stamps@hotmail.com

STAY TUNED THIS WEEK FOR SOME NEW FABULIFEROUS BLOG CANDY!!!!

Trick or Tweet!

Isn't this the cutest little critter EVER?!? It reminds me of when we were little and visited my grandparents on Halloween. My grandma would always look at us all dressed up and pretend like she had no idea who it was at her door. We thought our costumes were such great disguises! Now I look back at some of our pictures and die laughing. Our costumes were always something homemade -- and put together at the last minute. My mom always came up with these brilliant ideas. One year, it was about time to go Trick-or-Treating and I had nothing to wear. Somehow I became Joan of Arc (compliments to an entire roll of foil and a shield made out of a pizza pan). Yeah. I'm sure grandma had NO idea who I was! ;) I didn't even have a mask! I think this little chicken feels pretty inconspicuous in his costume too! LOL!

The little ghostie is made by Rubber Soul and was stamped onto sparkling white CS. I colored him in with markers and added even more glitter to his costume with Stickles. The shadow stamp is from C.C. Designs. I didn't have a sentiment on hand, so I 'made' one with my Karen Foster Snap Stamps. Isn't that just perfect?!? I finished the card with some black velvet ribbon. The patterned paper is a scrap of last year's SU Halloween paper. I just love yellow and purple together! The 'photo corners' were just cut from the same paper.

I wish you could see how sparkly this little card is! It makes me even MORE ready for fall!

Click Here For More Info: Ghost Chick stamp by Rubber Soul

*Don't forget that today is the last day to sign up for my Paper Pretties Blog Candy!*

Stay tuned this week for some more AWESOME give-aways from Rubber Soul!

I Was Inspired!

*Don't forget to sign up for my Paper Pretties Blog Candy! Click HERE for more details!*

This week's Blogger's Challenge was to find inspiration (from anywhere!) and design from it! I love this company called 'Gooseberry Patch'. They have the cutest products! I was flipping through my newest catalog and stopped when I came to these old-fashioned canisters and tea towels. I just love this time period. Anything that reminds me of a country farmhouse makes me feel all warm inside!

So this is what I was inspired to make! Aren't these little clear pails just the best? My mind goes crazy with all the possibilities! I stamped 'COOKIES' using SU's Letterpress Alphabet set in red. I outlined the letters and shaded a bit with a black pencil. The cherries are from Crafty Secret's Kitchen Classics set. I used copics to color them in and a white gel pen to give it some highlights. The dotted line above and below the letters are from Papertrey's Faux Ribbon Set. I gave it a little antiquing by using SU's Sahara Sand ink (rubbing over areas with a sponge). This is my favorite color of ink for distressing - love it! :)

I colored a chipboard tag with red craft ink and stamped 'Welcome to the Neighborhood', using my Clearly Wordsworth Stick People set. My best friend just moved... and now we live only a mile apart! :) Yeah! I tied on some scraps of ribbon and a charm from Karen Foster.

This is the view from above. I punched a scalloped circle and stamped "FOR you" around the edges. (I love how Papertrey's acrylic stamps are bendable!) Everything on the can is adhered with SU's Sticky Strip. This stuff is strong enough to adhere an elephant! It's great!

So, I hope you find something 'inspiring' to create this week too! Check out all of the Blogger's Challenge Member's creations by clicking on their links on the side bar.

Paper: Daisy D's Butterfly Wings

Ah Ha! Isn't This Clever?

Have you guys seen the Stampin' Color Index Labels in SU's Fall/Winter catalog? They are really easy to miss, but I'm really glad that I found them! I love organization. (wish I was better at it!) For $3.95 (US) you get 2 sheets (duplicates) of clear labels including all of SU's 48 colors + neutrals + the current In Colors.

I used my first sheet to make new labels for my file folders and the second sheet to label my ink pads and ink storage unit. By the way, this is a fantastic ink storage system that I found on Ebay. They are really reasonable and come in alot of different configurations. I like that the 'shelves' are repositional. It gave me extra room on the bottom shelf to store other supplies (ink refills, Fun Flock, Stickles, etc.) I don't know if you can tell by the picture, but there are also labels for color groups. I put these directly onto the wood unit. Some of my ink pads are new and don't have the color name on the outside - so these labels are so helpful! I just decided to put the labels on my old ink pads too, just to keep them looking more uniform.












If you don't already have a SU demo, I'd love to order for you anytime. Just drop me an e-mail. In August, for every order of $50 or more, I will give you 10% off. (please mention this in your e-mail as my 'bloggers special'. I'll let you know more details through e-mail. I can accept PayPal or money orders/CC. julie_stamps@hotmail.com)















And now for my 'Ah Ha!' moment! For those of you who own Copics--- I was trying to come up with a good way to remember which of my markers coordinated with my Stampin' Up! colors. I'm going to get an extra sheet of these labels and just put them directly onto my Copics! No more guessing game!

Back to School!

*Don't forget to sign up for my Paper Pretties Blog Candy!*
($20 Gift Certificate)

Today was my son - Eli's - first day of 1st grade! It's crazy how fast time flies! He's not a morning person, so this is about the biggest smile I could get out of him. His doesn't know the meaning of a 'natural smile' these days!

I have to be honest and say that there were no tears this year (from me or him!) as the bus pulled away:) He was ready to get back to hanging out with his friends, and I am loving the thought of being home every once in awhile with one child for part of the day! And... on Thursdays - I get to have a day to myself! *happy dance*

So... in honor of this special day, I made a 'school themed' card. I didn't put a sentiment on it because I'm not sure exactly what I'm going to do with it yet. I think it would make a great card for his teacher one of these days. The sketch is from a Splitcoaststampers Challenge for today.

This little guy is by C.C. Designs, called 'Donald Goes to School'. It's SO cute and packed full of everything school related! I stamped 'Eli' and colored him in with Copic markers. The lunch box is a separate stamp. Isn't it so fun!?! Then, I stamped two backpack images. I colored one with Copics and also stamped on top of it with SU's linen BG. I cut out both images and layered them with dimensionals. Hmmm... wish you could see it in the picture. I used SU's Word Window punch to add a couple of tabs onto the card. The pencil and crayon are images from a retired SU school set. The set from C. C. designs had similar images, but they were just a little small for what I wanted to do. The ribbon is by Foof-a-la. (I've seen it in the scrapbooking section of Wal-mart lately.)

Borders & Corners Holiday

*Don't forget to sign up for my Paper Prettie's Gift Certificate Blog Candy!*

This is the card that I sent into Papertrey Ink's Guest Star Stamper contest this month. I'm kicking myself that I didn't make more than one entry this time. I've just been SO busy! When I first saw this set online, I thought 'This set would make perfect holiday ornaments!!!'. So, I took a picture of my boys, scanned it and printed it in black and white - just onto regular computer paper. It looked really dull and I was trying to think of a way to liven it up a little. I just love the photos that are mainly black and white - but the photographer adds color to only certain parts of the picture once developed. I can't think of what this technique is called, so hopefully you guys will understand what I'm trying to describe. :) I had just purchased a few Copic markers and decided to give it a try. I couldn't believe the results! The markers didn't smear the toner at all! And... the color looked perfect! I couldn't get a great photo of it, but I added color to their skin and shirts. Dark colors don't work well (I know this because I tried to add dark brown to Eli's hair and he looked like something from the Adam's family)... but the lighter tones work just as I'd hoped!

I added a stamped border around the photo and to the scalloped matting with the Oval Borders & Corners set from Papertrey Ink. The layers are held together with dimensionals. I added some silver cord between the layers for the 'ornament' to hang by. It's adhered to the card front by a self-adhesive velcro dot! Hopefully the recipient will enjoy the card and then hang the ornament on their tree.

For the card, I used some left-over poinsettia paper from last years SU holiday designer series pack. I made coordinating ribbon by stamping an image from the stamp set onto twill -- and then added a little color to the image centers with a red Copic marker. I love how the holly image fits perfectly in a scalloped border! I added a little holly to the corners of the cards too. The sentiment is from Papertrey's Faux Ribbon set. Between that set and the Paper Tray set, I always find the sentiment that I need! Love it! :) I stamped a border (from the Borders & Corners set, of course!) around the sentiment and adhered with another dimensional.

I really like these new sets (surprise, surprise!) :) These stamps are SO versatile! I love them!!! And... I love that this card has the little unexpected twist to it!

What Type of Personality Do You Have?

*Don't miss the AWESOME blog candy I have in the posting below! It's a $20 gift certificate to Paper Pretties!!!*

I don't usually do these kind of things, but I was curious this time. I knew I wasn't a 'Type-A' personality... but I really didn't know what I was. Anyway, it was kind of interesting, and I think it turned out pretty accurate! Do you want to see what your personality type is? Just click on the link below. :)

You Have A Type B+ Personality

You're a pro at going with the flow You love to kick back and take in everything life has to offer A total joy to be around, people crave your stability. While you're totally laid back, you can have bouts of hyperactivity. Get into a project you love, and you won't stop until it's done You're passionate - just selective about your passions

Do You Have a Type A Personality?

Some PRETTY Sweet Candy!

See! I told you I had some great blog candy in store for you! In honor of the 10,000th hit to my site, I am giving away a $20 gift certificate to Paper Pretties!

You can subscribe to Paper Pretties and receive a card class in a box delivered to your door each month! The kit comes with all of the supplies (including stamps, embellishments, full color instructions & more) to make six beautiful cards. You get to chose either a kit featuring images from Stamping Bella or My Favorite Things!

You can also use your gift certificate at Paper Pretties' Corner Store! The store is open to everyone, but if you are a monthly subscriber - you will receive 'member only' discounts on everything! The store carries the full line of stamps from MFT's, Primas, paper and SO MUCH MORE!

Ok... so now you're wondering how you can win this sweet blog candy! All you have to do is become a subscriber to my blog. Go to the side bar on the right and subscribe today. Please follow the instructions that will be sent to your e-mail address. Then, leave me a comment to let me know that you've subscribed. Already a subscriber? Just leave me a comment and let me know. Only one comment per person, please.

Do you want a second chance at winning? Become a Paper Pretties card kit subscriber today! Please leave a comment in your membership agreement that Julie Campbell sent you! Then, leave me a second comment on this post to let me know!

I will pick a random winner on Sunday, August 19th!

Relax, Man!

As soon as I saw this masculine set from My Favorite Things, I knew I 'had' to have it! This set is called Let's Hear it For the Boys! I just don't own very many 'manly' stamps... so when I need to make something for a guy, it's usually a stretch! This set is so cute and full of everything male!

I started by adding color with my Copic markers. These are getting to be pretty fun! I love the versatility of them! Then, I paper pieced several different areas using some paper from Daisy D's (butterfly wings). I drew on the wainscoting and trim. The wall just needed a little something. I also added some 'wall art' and hung the mounted fish. I had to use the popcorn stamp. This cracks me up! My dad always has to have his bowl of popcorn when he's in his recliner! It's perfect! He He! Finally, I stamped the sentiment and tried to make it mimic the shape as the fish plaque. The smaller image above is what the card reads inside.

Guess what?!? My new friends at Paper Pretties sell this stamp set in their store... along with all of the new MFT's sets! If you become a monthly subscriber, you get a great discount on everything in their store. (tell them Julie Campbell sent you!) :) You've got to check it out!

*Don't forget to keep watching my blog for some AWESOME blog candy --- Coming Soon!!!!*

I Think I Just Hit the Lottery!

.... or at least that's what it feels like to me! This week has been one big roller-coaster ride! First of all, for those who read my story about my grandpa -- I've got a great report! Yesterday, he was able to come off of the ventilator.... and is even trying to crack a few jokes! This is just amazing! Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to all of those who've said a prayer, sent encouraging messages, and have had us in your thoughts! It's amazing how many wonderful people are in my life, new and old! Thank you so much!

And that's just the beginning! Earlier this week, I received an e-mail from Christie from Paper Pretties. I remember reading about her company when it was in it's beginnings and thought it was an awesome concept! Besides having a great on-line store, Paper Pretties has something I've never seen anywhere else! They have a card kit in a box! This is how the company describes it:

"You've heard of scrapbooking kits delivered to your door, but have you ever heard of a card class in a box? We believe we are one of the first services like this in the rubber stamping, card making and scrapbooking industry. Imagine being able to have a kit arrive on your doorstep every month with all of the supplies (including the stamps) to make six beautiful cards. That's what Paper Pretties is all about. We take the time to sit down, design a card layout, colors, embellishments - all the elements of a beautiful card and deliver it right to your doorstep with the instructions to reproduce it, not once but 6 times."

Isn't that a great idea? And the best thing is, these boxes feature new Stamping Bella and My Favorite Things stamps! My favorites!

So.... back to my e-mail. Christie said that she happened upon my blog and wanted to know if I would be interested in being on her design team! Can you believe it?!? I almost had a heart attack! This has been one of my big goals --- my dream! Check this out!

And, if that wasn't enough.... the next morning I was online and saw a card made from those adorable Wordsworth stamps that I love. I went to their website and started salivating! Rubber Soul has some of the cutest stamps I've ever seen! So.. I sent them an e-mail, saying how much I liked what they did and asked them if they ever needed someone to design for them. I checked my e-mail a couple of hours later and saw that I had a response! (I really wasn't expecting even a 'hello!') Dani (the president of Rubber Soul) said that she looked at my blog and would love for me to start designing for her!

Is this just not crazy?!? This all started when I entered CHF's Fresh Face Design Team search. Maybe my face won't be so fresh anymore after getting to work for such awesome companies!!!

Thanks for reading my excited ramblings! Hopefully some of you actually made it to the end! As a treat, I will be posting some great new blog candy soon! You DON'T want to miss it!

Blogger's Challenge - Alter It!

I just joined a group of super talented gals called Blogger's Challenge. Every week a new challenge is given and everyone posts their creations each Friday. Please take a look at my side bar to see a list of all the other bloggers' posts. This weeks challenge was to 'Alter Anything'! Well, as soon as I read it, I knew I wanted to alter this bandage tin by Provo Craft! I thought a 'get well' theme would be the perfect thing!

Isn't this little nurse just the cutest thing you've ever seen?!? I may be partial because I am a nurse - but either way, it just makes me smile! She's one stamp out of many from Clearly Wordsworth's Stick People acrylic set. You've really got to check them out! Rubber Soul makes these - and so many awesome stamps!

These are so easy to decorate. I cut pieces of patterned paper from Daisy D's Chasing Butterflies collection - and adhered them with Sticky Strip. The main image was stamped, colored in with Copic markers, and then I added a free-hand doodle border. I stamped a second image, colored, and then cut out just the face and dress of the nurse. I adhered her face with a tiny glue dot (this just gave it a little more dimension) - and her dress with a pop up dot. I put another clear glue dot under the top of the dress to make it look like her skirt flairs out a bit. The sentiment is from the same stamp set.

I added a couple ribbon 'tabs' to the main image, and then just tied scraps of ribbon onto the handle. This probably only took me about 15 minutes to complete. I'm thinking about filling it with SweetTarts. When I was a kid, we always pretended they were our 'medicine'!

Wishing You Well

This is a card that I'm bringing to my grandpa who's in the hospital. For those of you who pray, please say a prayer for him today! He recently had emergency surgery and is pretty sick right now. Also, pray for my grandma - to give her strength and encouragement.

My grandparents have to be the best people on earth. Now, I know a lot of people would say that about their family, but I really think mine are pretty superior! :) My grandpa has always been the quiet type. He's got a great sense of humor though, so if you listen carefully, he's hilarious! My grandpa taught us to value an education. He was a school teacher and also farmed most of his life. He has to be one of the hardest working people on earth! My grandma is seriously the best cook in the midwest. If you're ever in Indiana, you've got to come and try her home-made pie!

But most of all, my grandparents taught us about Christ. They are not the type of people who 'preach' at you, and only give advice when it's asked for. They witness by example -- which I think is the best witness! And, because of them, all 6 of their children, multiple grandchildren, and even several great-grandchildren have a relationship with Jesus. How awesome is that!?!

Ok... so now let me get to this card! I just received my order from SU today with some new Mini Catalog preview goodies! One of the things I LOVE about the stamps from this catalog is that they are already PRE-CUT! Please, SU, make all of your stamps like this in the next catalog!

This card was made following the same sketch as the previous post. I wanted to give it another try! I used the new set 'True Friend' and some Apple Cider DS paper. I am in lust of this paper! It is SO pretty! Plus, fall is my favorite season... and these colors just make me smile! The stamp set is gorgeous!!! I'm just so happy with my purchases! :)

I used some Copper Stickles to add sparkle to the floral image. The layers are adhered with dimensionals. I think it looks very exotic! I stamped a small image from Papertrey's Borders and Corners set in each of the scalloped areas on the chocolate circle.

The sentiment is also by Papertrey Ink and the 'swirl' is by Autumn Leaves.

Ready for Fall

I don't know what the weather is like where you live, but here it is HOT! My kids have been cooped up inside all week because it's just miserable outside! I am totally ready for fall! So... when the new MFT Falling For You set arrived in my mailbox today - I was ready to tear into it!

The sketch for this card comes from Splitcoast's Challenge for today. I found this awesome paper that I've been hoarding from KI Memories (Holiday Collection, Grateful Tree Farm)! It's SO pretty and has a pearlescent shimmer. I was going through my stash and found some satin leaf printed ribbon. I couldn't believe how well it went with the paper... and then, after I was finished, I looked at the ribbon closer so that I could post info about it. Duh! It was made by KI Memories too! No wonder they coordinated so well! :)

I stamped the main image with Palette Ink and colored it in with Copics. I love how you can scribble a little onto a slick surface and pick up bits of color by using a different, lighter marker. I just found this out today (I'm a novice at this!) and it makes blending SO easy! I added sparkle with Copper Stickles.

Do you know how long it's been since I've used an eyelet in a project?! It's been forevah! But... I bought a Crop-a-Dile using my 40% coupon the other day. It's SO much nicer than using the hammer! And, since I usually only stamp when the boys are asleep, hammering is usually not an option. So, I went a little crazy and added eyelets everywhere. It was really fun!

I cut the half circle out with my Coluzzle and layered it over a scalloped circle. I stamped a few random leaves and added more Stickles. For the sentiment, I stamped, cut it out by hand, and then added a scalloped border (using some small scalloped Fiskars scissors).

I just love looking at the card. It's so sparkly.. and I just love fall. It's too bad that fall leads up to winter though!

Shoes & Friends.......

This is a card I made for Beate's Sketch Challenge this week. I love sketch challenges! It just makes things SO much easier when you have a few guidelines to go by. Basicly, you start with an 8 1/2 x 5 1/2 piece of cardstock. On the long end, score the CS at 5 1/2 and 8 1/8. You fold over the little flap and hold the fold with ribbon. I added half of a circle of velcro to the main flap to keep it from swinging open.

The garden boot is from Papertrey Ink's Green Thumb set. I think this is my all time favorite from them so far, but I haven't used it lately because I'm trying out all of the new stamps too. I started by stamping the entire boot in Groovy Guava and then using a Taken With Teal marker to color the bottom of the boot. The toe and top of boot are separate stamps, so adding color to them was easy. On another scrap of paper, I used various floral stamps from several Papertrey sets to make a bouquet. I layered the cut out boot over the flowers and adhered with dimensionals. I added stickles to the teal areas of the boot and to the flower centers. I added a little more fun shimmery with some clear gemstones on two of the corners of this layer.

For the front of the card, I punched out an oval (SU large oval punch) and stamped 'Shoes & Friends' in the center - and adhered it also with dimensionals. Then I used a white gel pen to add a dotted outline. I also dotted the small folded area.

The inside of the card says "You can never have too many!" (in case it doesn't show up in the pic) Don't you just love that guava polka dotted ribbon? I just got it from Jacksonbelle Embellishments (May Arts) and it's SO pretty!!!!

The stamp is by 'My Sentiments Exactly!' #K336-10

P.S. -- If you are interested in voting for me in the Craft Critique Celebrations contest, you only have until Thursday! (please see link on side bar) Thanks to everyone who has already voted. I REALLY appreciate it!!!

Batter Up!

My father-in-law asked me to make 'thank you' cards for the parents of one of the teams he coached this summer. When I make cards in multiple quantities, they HAVE to be simple! I am usually a 'one card only' card maker. I guess I get bored easily. My husband is also a baseball coach for the high school where he teaches. So between the two of them and my two boys, I'm sure I'll get a lot of use out of these baseball themed supplies!

Isn't this baseball stamp CUTE! I found it online from A Muse (called Batter). It's colored in with Copic markers. I love how smooth these markers color! No stroke marks/lines! Then, I made a mask and stamped a small dirt mound under his feet with a shaddow stamp by C.C. Designs.

The patterned paper is all from Die Cuts With a View. I was so excited when I found a baseball paper stack! How perfect! I just cut strips of the baseball stitching paper and added some black backing. The sentiment is by Papertrey Ink (Paper Tray).

You Make Me Smile!

Hey guys! Sorry I haven't been posting very regularly lately! It's been crazy busy here lately... and usually I can only stamp when my kids are asleep. I've been working a little extra at the hospital for the past few weeks - but now I'm finished with my commitment there and back on my regular schedule. Yeah!!! My hubby and I have actually been able to have some 'date nights' (which is SO nice!) Mom.. I know you're always checking my blog - so THANK YOU!!!! School is getting ready to start here too. My husband is a teacher and has been home all summer. I think we're both ready for him to get back on his regular schedule too! And... my oldest will be in school every day starting this year. It's going to be cool just spending some one-on-one time with my 'baby'. I don't think that's ever happened.

So.... for those of you who only check the posts for 'stamping' related things... this is the card I made today during nap time. (I love nap time!) I used my new Lizzie Anne set again AND my new set from Verve Visual! I really like these sentiments! They fit perfectly inside of Stampin' Up!'s Word Window punch! I used my Stamp-a-ma-jig to fit the sentiment perfectly inside of the dotted frame.

It's hard to tell in the picture, but the area on the right of the card was stamped and then Fun Flocked in white. I used an Aquapainter and Watercolor Wonder Crayons to add a little color. The fibers in the fun flock are so soft! You just can't resist rubbing your fingers over it. It really is fun! I just added some stitching to anchor it a bit.

For the flower, I stamped the image 3 times. I cut out the entire flower on one piece and just the inner part of the flower on the other piece. Everything was watercolored and given a little glitter from my Sakura Stardust pen. (I think I use this on just about everything!) I used some dimensionals to adhere and separate the layers.

The pink background was embossed with my Cuttlebug. I used an emery board and sanded it a bit to distress. The middle 'ribbon' strip was made with a scrap of My Mind's Eye paper. I used my Slot Punch to make an opening to run the ribbon through.

Thanks for checking out my post! I'll try to make them more frequent this week! :)

Jolies Fleurs takes Flight!

This is a card I made with my first Lizzie Anne set - Jolie's Fleurs! Lindsey (aka Jacksonbelle) is having a card design contest on her blog with some awesome prizes! You know I can't resist a challenge! AND... for those of you who don't own any Lizzie Anne sets.... right now, she is also offering free shipping from her store. You just have to mention hearing about her contest when you purchase.

The idea behind the design was to create a butterfly and make it look like it was landing on a flower. I stamped one of the smaller flower images, colored and cut out only the petals. Then, I strung a few beads onto a piece of thread and attached it to the petals. The two ends of the string became the butterfly's antennas.

I used a piece of a transparency sheet for my window (layered between two pieces of lavendar CS). The flower on the inside of the card was stamped, colored in with Prismacolor Pencils, and then given some glitter accents. I used a white gel pen to add dots around the image - just to set it off a little more.

The color looks so much better in person, but it's midnight and I was anxious to take some pictures. :)

Enabler Alert!

I use to be monogamous in the stamping world (I ONLY bought from the company I demo'd for), but lately, I've become quite the 'swinger'! ;) I really have a lot of respect for the 'little' companies now. Stamping Bella, Papertrey Ink, Gina K.... and now Julee Tilman has just launched her new line 'Verve Visual'! Today is the Grand Opening and Julee is offering a limited time discount. Just enter VDAY in the coupon box at checkout and you'll receive 10% off your entire order. This coupon expires August 8, 2007. BTW, I am not affiliated with the company at all - just want to see someone succeed! There is only one stamp set offered right now, but more will be coming. The stamp set is called 'Thoughtful Phrases" and comes with some really cute and versatile sentiments! And.... the best part- it's only $5.50! (even cheaper with the discount!) You can select first class shipping if you're just ordering stamps. She also has some great paper (Basic Grey's new Infuse line just to mention one!), tools, inks, etc. You should go check it out!