MaricopaStamper

Papertrey Ink January Blog Hop: Favorite 2011 Project Challenge

2012-01-25T07:58:00.000-07:00

Picking my favorite 2011 Papertrey Ink project wasn't at all difficult, probably because I adore the Half & Half stamp set, and also love the fabulous fonts from Botanical Silhouettes!

I've followed basically the same LO for today's Blog Hop, but created a totally different look with Turning a New Leaf DP for my BG and also using the Half & Half die for my sentiment (Inside & Out: Birthday). Perhaps this might work for a 'guy' card?

My focal bird on a branch image (Iconic Images) is fussy cut and Ripe Avocado edging repeats underneath, as well as along the right edge (Edgers #3), which I think helps balance the design.

My only non-PTI products are the green hemp cord from my stash and Antique Linen Distress Ink. Thanks for stopping by & enjoy the Blog Hop; I KNOW I will!!!

JustRite Challenge 64 (2nd Entry): Inspiration

2012-01-23T07:30:00.000-07:00

I was so surprised when I saw Sharon's sample card for this JustRite challenge, as I'd had the very same paper pad on my craft table since before Christmas, having used it for another bday card that I've not yet posted. I'd also borrowed Spellbinders' Butterflies' Circles die from my friend and thought it would be such a nice compliment to this paper. Since I also have sooo many birthdays that I need cards for soon, I just had to put paper and dies together to create another card for this challenge! You truly inspired me, Sharon, and I really needed that after the holidays.
My card is fairly simple, but in searching for a blue/aqua shade of paper to coordinate, I decided to airbrush a piece of white vellum with Copic BG15 (Aqua). I then die cut my vellum circle and stamped my sentiment from JR's Cherish the Memories Nested Sentiments in Dark Chocolate ink, added a narrow dark chocolate frame and popped on a double-stacked small butterfly from Nested Butterflies Two cut from the aqua & white vellum. A bit of gathered Bridal Ribbon from Hobby Lobby, inspired by the billowy curtains in the inspiration photo, and Martha Stewart 'Cloud' seam binding bow and it's ready to mail! I totally LOVE this color combo!

JustRite Friday Challenge #64: Inspiration

2012-01-22T07:25:00.000-07:00

Now that I've given my friend her birthday card, I can post it. She's not one to frequent my blog (though I'm expecting that to change once she retires?), but I always know around this time of year, she'll be stalking it to see IF I posted her card -- HA -- fat chance that's ever going to happen! ;~) Today when our other friend asked if I'd posted either of their cards yet, Sassy had to blush heavily and laugh. She'd gone online at work to fool me into thinking she'd not been here! This is a woman who cannot tolerate a surprise if it's even remotely possible to eke it out of anyone ahead of time or to discover it herself in advance of the event -- she does come by her nickname honestly! So now I present my well-kept secret card:

Because blue is her favorite color, I chose JustRite's inspiration challenge colors. I really love this color combo and the BG paper (Colorbok's Flea Market) reminded me of the pillow design in the inspiration photo. My sentiment was created using JustRite's Curlz 50 pt. alpha letters for 'sassy' plus 'Birthday' from their Just a Note set. It's backed by one of Tim Holtz Mini Paper Rosettes (LOVE that die!) and JR's Grandma's Doilies (which perfectly coordinate with Spellbinders' Classic Scalloped Circles). A bit of Copic BG15 is added for accent here, as well as on my JR Lace Border stamped along the bottom. Coordinating stamp sets and dies make creating projects sooo easy and a great color combo never hurts! Add in a few pearls and some luscious seam binding ('Cloud' by Martha Stewart) and you can't go wrong. Hope you enjoy seeing my card as much as I enjoyed surprising the gal who cannot stand a surprise surprising her -- Hee-Hee!!!

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #77: Something New!

2012-01-21T11:00:00.000-07:00

Your 'mission' (aka challenge) should you choose to accept it @ My Sheri Crafts is to create a project of your choosing -- the only requirement is to use at least one 'new' item or new technique you've learned. It can be something you just got, maybe for a Christmas gift, or even items you've had for awhile, but not yet used. We all have those, huh?
And who doesn't love to see new card folds, stamping/inking/embossing techniques or anything new to try out, so bring it on for this wide-open challenge and show us what you've got!!!
My carnation pink lattice 5.5" card was made with Bazzill CS by cutting it on my brand-spanking new Boss Kut Gazelle digital die cutting machine. It was a huge surprise, as I won it right before Christmas -- more on that in a later post. Secondly, I used Spellbinders' Carnation Creations to create my flower and though I've had them awhile, this was my first chance to create with them. My Papertrey Ink sentiment is stamped on a Spellbinders' Ribbon Banner. Since I LOVE die cutting, I couldn't be happier that I now own an awesome machine, as well as many fabulous dies to even further enhance my projects -- I'm truly a lucky girl!
I added a pearl brad to my flower's center, three small pearls to the center's edge and used both Antique Linen and Worn Lipstick inks on my card, flower and banner to antique them a bit!
Won't you PLEASE show us your 'new' crafty goodies by posting a project (or more) at My Sheri Crafts? We'd LOVE to see what items you've gotten and now used for your creative endeavors, so do share! ;-)

My Sheri Crafts Challenge 76: Time for a Change

2012-01-07T11:00:00.000-07:00

Since it's a New Year, My Sheri Crafts says, "Time for a Change" (create any project that includes a clock). Hop on over to see the many ideas the DT is presenting! I altered a 49-cent composition book from Office Max to turn it into what I think is a lovely journal/notebook/recipe book/place to jot ideas -- whatever you wish-to-use-it for book!
Though the change is definitely dramatic, it was such an easy fix. I merely chose my papers (retired SU CS), cut it to roughly the height of my journal, adhered 1/4" Scor-Tape to the edges and and pressed my CS down, adding a separate piece of CS to finish off the back. Next I used a Basic Grey file to smooth the edges and Walnut Stain distress ink for antiquing -- really simple.
My 'midnight' clock is made using Spellbinders' Big Scalloped Circles, Tim Holtz Game Spinners, plus numerals for both the clock & year were cut with my new Boss Kut Gazelle -- a very simply project for a Gaz newbie!
That's it for my first 2012 project -- we'd LOVE to have you share your "Time for a Change" project with us @ My Sheri Crafts -- can't wait to see them all!!!

Christmas Wine Charms: Spellbinders' Style

2011-12-28T11:56:00.000-07:00

As we were preparing for Christmas Day dinner, I decided we needed wine charms to identify our glasses, so I threw these little charmers together on Christmas Eve -- I just had to take a break and do something "fun"! I used various Christmas Spellbinders' dies from my collection and one (the bell) borrowed from a friend that she purchased through Heartfelt Creations. I did 'run out of steam' and time, so they're not totally perfect, but they were sooo much fun to make, using Shrinky Dink plastic and my Spellbinders' dies!!! My favs are the tree, reindeer, holly and snowflake.

Using Copic markers to color them I realized that the colors turn much darker when you heat your shrink plastic. I want to play a bit more so I'll have these all perfected for next year. I added pearls, gems, glittery EP (while the plastic is still very hot) and even used a Classic Ric Rac Edgeabilies' die cut on my bell! Wouldn't these be fun to have for all sorts of occasions/seasons? They'd also be perfect little gifts for friends, wouldn't they?! My mind is whirling with ideas!!!

Christmas Tag: Tim Holtz Steampunk style

2011-12-20T08:27:00.000-07:00

When I saw Tim Holtz Tag #8 this year, I knew it would be perfect for my son! I downloaded the dictionary graphic from The Graphics Fairy and proceeded to put my tag together, basically following Tim's directions, but pulling things from my stash to improvise where necessary (which was quite a bit) but I LOVE the result.
If you've not checked out The Twelve Tags of Christmas, you are truly missing out on a fabulous resource!!! Just go to Tim's blog and click on the "Categories" link on the left for links to the past five years' tags. That's 60+ amazing tags, as T!m adds one or more at the end of each post!
Once again, I had sooo much fun putting this together and hearing from DS how much he loved it was the 'icing on the Christmas cake' -- LOL!!!

Paper: Papertrey Ink's Vintage Cream CS; Tim Holtz Grunge Paper
Stamps: Tim Holtz: Curious Possibility
Inks: Various Ranger Distress Inks
Embellishments: Tim Holtz Time Pieces & Spinner, Hug Snug Seam Binding; Spellbinders' Oval Die & Craft Foil; Stickles

Masculine Birthday Cards: Spellbinder's Style!

2011-12-17T06:09:00.000-07:00

For our son & my stepson's shared birth date (16 years apart) this year I created the same card for both, deciding to elaborate on a card I first saw created by Judy Hayes. This time I changed the center by not only using a sprocket die & large metal brad, but I cut out the center area of my smaller Labels Twenty-One layer with a Crown Circles die.

Close-up view of center

Next, I stamped my greeting by Papertrey Ink in Staz-On ink on clear acrylic, adding it over the center to emulate looking through glass -- I LOVE how it turned out, including the masculine look of the sanded Core'dinations papers and screw brads -- with a "steam punk" feel to it!

For more details, see my previous similar posts here and here.
Ahhh, so many December birthdays and Christmas cards yet to complete/so little time -- two more down & 1 more birthday yet to create!!! ;~)

Paper: Core'dinations CS; WeRMemoryKeepers CS; Grafix Dura-Lar Clear Overlay Film (Medium Weight from Hobby Lobby)
Stamp: Papertrey Ink's Inside & Out Birthday
Ink: Staz-On
Dies: Spellbinders Labels Twenty-One, Labels Sixteen, Crown Circles, Sprightly Sprockets
Embellishments: from stash

Snowflake Christmas Card: Spellbinders' Style!

2011-12-14T13:44:00.000-07:00

I just love the red, white and pale aqua color scheme in this Papertrey Ink Rustic Snowflakes DP. After misting it with Ranger's Perfect Pearl mist, a relatively new technique for me, it proved a bit difficult to photograph, but I really love the soft blowing snow effect!
My snowflake was created using the three largest dies from Spellbinders' Create a Flake Three, layering PTI's Shimmer White and Pale Aqua CS, and finishing it off with a gemstone snowflake from Hobby Lobby.
For my card's bottom edge detail I used two Spellbinders' Classic Postage Stamp and Classic Scallop Edgeabilities' dies. My sentiment and tiny snowflake stamp is from The Craft Lounge, stamped in VersaMark Ink and embossed with Silver EP to which I added MS White Gold glitter! Lastly, I ran 1/4" Scor-Tape across my card & covered it with Martha Stewart glitter.

Christmas Snowflake Card: Spellbinders'/JustRite Style

2011-12-12T10:11:00.000-07:00

Because I need more Christmas cards, because I LOVE the way Becca Feeken created her snowflake, and because I love this paper and this sentiment, I had to create a card with these elements today!

Snowflake Detail

I've had this DCWV paper for at least two years and recently purchased Spellbinders' Create a Flake Three, but didn't really like the die -- until I saw Becca's take on it! Like her, I cut the snowflake die in white CS, silver glittered CS and blue CS, layered them with silver on the bottom, then blue, and then white, slightly offset, then gently pulled the silver & blue points up over the white. Once done, I gave my blue points a twist to the right, slightly offsetting the three colors, and added a sparkly Recollections snowflake gem.
My sentiment is from a set of clear stamps by The Craft Lounge that stamp so beautifully -- LOVE them! It is stamped & embossed on a JustRite Nested Frames & Sentiments die. The bottom edge consists of two Spellbinders Classic Postage Stamp and Classic Scallop Edgeabilities dies and underneath a strip of the same Core'dinations glitter paper used on my snowflake and sentiment edges! Lastly, I ran 1/4" Scor-Tape across my card & covered it with Martha Stewart's White Gold glitter. LOVE that stuff, thanks to Tim Holtz recommendation!

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #75: Let It Snow

2011-12-10T11:00:00.000-07:00

I've been a huge fan of Tim Holtz Twelve Days of Christmas ever since he began his fabulous tag-making ritual five years ago, but this is the first tag I've actually made (#4). My supplies are somewhat limited, but I had so much fun creating this tag for My Sheri Crafts this week!!! I die cut my snowman/snowflake (Tim Holtz Winter Wonder die) from grunge board. I was able to partially die cut the 25 through the thick grunge board with Lifestyle Crafts dies and then finished cutting them out with a craft knife. Each piece was covered with Adirondack's Snow Cap Acrylic Paint Dabber, left to dry, then covered in a thick coat of Clear Rock Candy Distress Crackle Paint and air dried until cracked.
The tag was cut from Papertrey Ink's Vintage Cream CS and misted lightly with water. I used various misting sprays on my craft mat (Ranger's Perfect Pearl Mist; Tattered Angels' Waterslide & Bubbles Glimmer Mists) and swiped the tag through them until I liked how it looked. Once dry, I stamped the tag with a flourish stamp in Snow Cap paint and stamped various snowflake stamps in the upper area, as well as distressing the edges with Weathered Wood Distress ink.
To complete the snowman & flake I sponged their edges with Broken China and Weathered Wood Distress inks. I mounted a piece of Tim's Seasonal Music Paper to the back behind my 25, sealing with Glossy Accents. A piece of crinkled seam binding was tied on for his scarf and white tulle was threaded through both buttons near the bottom of the tag. Lastly, I stamped a metal tag with JustRite Times News Roman alpha stamps and threaded silver sparkle tulle and crinkled ribbon through it and the top of the tag and added my snowflake. If you get a chance, be sure to visit Tim's site and see the various tags (and detailed tutorials) he presents daily for the 12 days of Christmas -- quite a sight to behold!!!
Hope you enjoy all the fabulous snowy creations from our DT members @ My Sheri Crafts today. Be sure to post your take on our Let It Snow challenge, as we'd LOVE to have you join us!!!

Also posting at Tim Holtz: 12 tags of Christmas...Tag 4

The Shabby Tea Room Week #90 Challenge: Winter Picnic

2011-12-03T17:43:00.001-07:00

I love using white/silver for Christmas, so this card is for TSTR's challenge, which is sponsored by JustRite this week. My Nested Tea Cup die was first cut and then stamped with one of JustRite's Lace Borders and heat embossed in silver. I stamped my JustRite Charmed sentiment onto a Spellbinders' Ribbon Tag Trio die cut and stamped the same border from my cup onto both edges in VersaMark Ink and again embossed in silver. I then layered my tea cup over a shiny silver doily and a white doily I'd sprayed with Tattered Angels' Silver mist, giving it a soft silvery sparkle.
My card is edged with a combination of Spellbinders' Classic Scallop and Classic Bracket Edgeabilities, which has a Fleur de Lis that coordinates well with the Lacey Border I used on both my tea cup and tag. I then layered another Classic Scallop piece cut from Core'dinations silver glittered CS underneath my borders. A sheer white ribbon laced through my tag completes this card. I hope your Christmas card making is going well and you can relax and enjoy the upcoming holiday festivities. I think I'm nearly finished?!!!

JustRite Friday Challenge #63: Christmas

2011-11-28T22:07:00.001-07:00

For JustRite's Friday Challenge this week, I wanted to work with Spellbinders' Nested Tea Cups won in their recent giveaway. The original out-of-the-box idea I had when I saw the dies isn't at all wintery or Christmas-like, so it will have to wait for now. Spellbinders' awesome DT member, Judy Hayes, posted this gorgeous example.
I've used the cup die as an outdoor hanging lamp, lighting my Christmas sign. The lamp, decorative hanger and sign are all cut from SBs' craft foil. My lampshade's holly and berries border are from JustRite's Christmas Nested Frames, stamped in StazOn ink and colored with red and green Copics. Season's Greetings is from JR's Christmas Nested Sentiments. I Copic colored a piece of vellum to light my sign.

Paper: PTI's Vintage Cream CS; vellum; DP from stash
Stamps: JustRite's Christmas Nested Frames and Christmas Nested Sentiments; Stamps by Judith (pine)
Ink: StazOn Jet Black; Tim Holtz Tea Dye, Antique Linen and Peeled Paint
Dies: (JustRite Custom Dies -- Nested Frame Dies and Nested Sentiment Dies); Spellbinders: Nested Tea Cups; Elegant Posts
Miscellaneous: SB's craft foil; Martha Stewart Coarse Glitter; Copic Markers

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #74: Decorate for Christmas

2011-11-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

For My Sheri Crafts this week, I adapted this Splitcoaststampers gift box for use as a decor item using battery-operated tea lights. I love that you can create these with a few simple inexpensive items: coasters (large ones from the clearance aisle at my local grocery store and small ones saved from restaurant visits), CS or DP, ribbon/embroidery floss/cord and a battery-operated tea light ($1.13 ea. @ Walgreens). I've even seen them since I bought mine in 25-packs. They look so pretty with the tea lights flickering inside them, just like a real lit candle would -- minus the fire danger!

Both boxes were created following Taylor's instructions at the SCS link above, except that I die cut one coaster for each using Spellbinders' 2011 Heirloom Ornaments dies. On Vellum I stamped Heartfelt Creations (#HCPC 3417) Poinsettia Ornament 2 stamps with VersaMark, embossed with gold EP and sandwiched the vellum between my CS/DP on the front of my box.
FYI: My large coasters measure 4 5/16" square and are large enough for the largest ornament/stamp, whereas a smaller coaster may not allow enough space to punch holes along each side for lacing.

Hope you'll stop by to see all the Christmas ideas our DT has created for your inspiration -- even better -- join us at My Sheri Crafts by posting your own Christmas decor creations for all our readers to enjoy!

Papertrey Ink November, 2011 Blog Hop

2011-11-25T08:11:00.001-07:00

For my quick/easy Christmas card inspired by the photo Nichole chose for Papertrey Ink's November Blog Hop, I've used Papertrey's Half & Half die for my main focal piece and stamps from two Christmas sets. I was obviously inspired by the colors in the photo, the red/white checked pillow and the snowflakes. Since my card is quite simple and self-explanatory, I'll just list the supplies below and let you get on your way to the next blog, but thanks so much for stopping by today!

Papers: Pure Poppy, Shimmer, White CS; Holiday Vintage Prints DP
Stamps: 2009 Holiday Tag Collection; Vintage Ornaments (sentiment)
Inks: VersaMark & Ripe Avocado
Die: Half & Half (both for main focus & sentiment tag!)
Other: White Diamond Embossing Powder; Hero Arts Gems; Copic G07 Marker, ribbon from my stash

JustRite Friday Challenge #062: Give Thanks

2011-11-14T21:28:00.001-07:00

For this JustRite Friday Challenge to make and give or send a thank you card or gift I kept my card fairly CAS to let the sentiment and fall frame take center stage!
My sentiment (Baroque Nested Frames) and frame (Give Thanks Nested Frames) are die cut using JustRite's Nested Frames and Nested Sentiment custom dies that are so fun to work with! I used the small additional die flower piece to back the cream frame and then cut an additional orange frame from a slightly larger Nested Frames' die to back the whole piece before mounting it over my ribbon. I LOVE that this adds just a smidge of border color in the background -- so many possibilities with these awesome custom dies.
My cream layer's border was cut/embossed with a combination of Spellbinders' Classic Bracket and Classic Ric Rac Edgeabilites and I ran machine stitching just above them. The little acorn accent piece was cut from shrink plastic (Spellbinders' retired die) and colored with Copic markers before shrinking.
I'm so happy you stopped by today and hope you'll make and send a thank you card to someone too. It's always so nice to discover a card in my mailbox and this card will be mailed right after our Thanksgiving celebration.

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #73: Be Thankful

2011-11-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

After seeing this awesome Grateful banner by Kelli on Pinterest, I knew what I would make for our challenge this week at My Sheri Crafts! I gathered my supplies and went to work die cutting my pennants and banner basics' decorative strips. After having made this Halloween banner (which DD was thrilled to receive!), this second one went together pretty quickly.
Something about the word "gather" on Kelli's banner just spoke to me: the thought of what the original Thanksgiving was truly all about -- a gathering in of the harvest and a gathering of family and friends together to equally share in the bounty of that harvest and the love and thankfulness everyone was feeling way back then in their new homeland.
I think this project is pretty straightforward as far as assembly goes, so I'll just add that if anyone has any questions about any project or product, please feel free to leave a comment or email me, as I'm always happy to share! I hope you'll take a peek at all the lovely projects our DT Ladies and our Guest Designer at My Sheri Crafts' created this week and perhaps leave a comment or two and PLEASE JOIN US by posting your own project!!! Always thankful you stopped by today!

Supplies: Spellbinders' Pennants/Lacey Pennants/Banner Basics Three; DP - Autumn Abundance from Papertrey Ink; CS - brown Bazzill, Orange Zest & Summer Sunrise from PTI; Dew Drops from The Robin's Nest and flocked chipboard letters, source unknown; Creamsicle Gingham ribbon & Boshers from Bazzill Basics, various fibers.

JustRite Christmas Linky Party: Card 4

2011-11-07T11:23:00.001-07:00

Another favorite JustRite Christmas card for inspiration sharing is this card I made for my DD last Christmas. I'd never tried Inchies, but thought it would be a FUN experience and it WAS -- need to do more like this for this year!
I simply cut my CS to the size of a "twinchie" (2 inches) to stamp my ice-skating penguin from JustRite's Whimsical Christmas set. For added pop, I embossed my twinchie with my Spellbinders' classic square die, colored him with Copic markers and airbrushed the ice and sky BG. A dot of Stickles on the snowflakes & he was ready to mount on my Lacey Squares cut from silver craft foil. I then added a foil snowflake and ice blue gem brad to finish off my penguin card. He sure does seem to be having a great time out there on the ice, doesn't he?

Paper: Papertrey Ink's Ocean Tides CS; DCWV plaid; Making Memories snowflake paper
Stamp: JustRite's 2" Whimsical Christmas Borders & Centers
Ink: Memento's Tuxedo Black
Embellishments: Crystal Stickles; gem brad from stash
Tools: Spellbinders' Wizard and Lacey Squares & Snowflake dies; Copic Markers

JustRite Christmas Linky Party: Card 3

2011-11-07T11:03:00.002-07:00

The is one of my very favorite JustRite Christmas cards I created when their Friday challenges returned in August. That challenge was to create a shaped Holiday card and I was so happy with how this one turned out!
This one features JustRite's Vintage Christmas ornaments stamped on pearl vellum, embossed in silver and framed using Spellbinders' Labels Sixteen. My frame is cut from Papertrey Ink's Shimmer CS, stamped with a Vintage Christmas border, silver embossed and mounted with foam dots to a silver CS layer die cut from Label Twenty-One's largest die. I traced that same die onto Shimmer CS and a folded grey card from my stash, cut around both by hand and mounted the main image with foam dots.
I used JustRite's 25-pt. Times New Roman alphabet for my sentiment, die cut with a Spellbinders' Grommet Tag. Accents include narrow silver ribbon from my stash tied into a bow on the left to secure my sentiment tag and Recollections rhinestones.

JustRite Christmas Linky Party: Card 2

2011-11-06T12:49:00.001-07:00

For my 2nd card for JustRight's Christmas Linky Party, I kept it quite simple, as my mojo seems to be MIA at the moment.
My sentiment stamp from Christmas Nested Sentiments forms the focal point, stamped in VersaColor's Rose Red on Papertrey Ink White CS and die cut with Wonky Rectangles. The sentiment is backed with striped DCWV Christmas paper, cut using Labels Twenty-one -- a real favorite of mine!
My card is cut below the fold with Grand Large Labels and all edges were distressed using Antique Linen Distress Ink. I adhered green craft foil holly leaves cut from a retired Spellbinders' die and red gems for glitz, then attached the sentiment with foam squares, leaving room to thread my green ribbon underneath. That's it for this card -- thanks for stopping by and leaving your comment!

JustRite Christmas Linky Party: Card 1

2011-11-04T20:49:00.000-07:00

JustRite is having a Christmas Linky Party through November 8th, so join the fun and link your JustRite Christmas cards -- the more the MERRIER -- between now and then! Besides all the fabulous inspiration you'll garner, there will be surprise gifts from JustRite -- what could be more fun than that?!
For my first card, I used cream and gold, a favorite Christmas color combo. The largest Spellbinders' 2010 Heirloom Ornament die, cut from Core'dinations' Glitter Silk and a SBs' circle die, frames the gold embossed ornament stamp from Vintage Christmas.
During SBs' Handmade Holidays Blog Hop today I was inspired to try Natasha's tulle lacing technique. I cut my folded Papertrey Gold Shimmer CS with a Creative Book Pages die, added my eyelets and laced my tulle. LOVE how this turned out!
My sentiment stamp from Christmas Nested Sentiments and star from a Vintage Christmas border are stamped on a SBs' Double-ended Tag. I cut off the right edge, threaded this tag through my tulle and tied a bow. Can't wait to see all the cards posted so far at JustRite's Linky Party!!!

JustRite Friday Challenge #061: Get Scrappy

2011-11-02T10:13:00.001-07:00

What a FUN challenge JustRite's latest turned out to be! Stumped at first for what to make from my numerous scraps, mostly Halloween remnants, I spied a strip and left-over piece of 12" orange Bazzill CS in my heap -- the end result are these "strip" pumpkins for my Thanksgiving centerpiece and place cards, similar to ones I've seen all over the Web and on Pinterest that I'd been wanting to try my hand at!
My largest is made of twenty 1" x 12" strips through which I punched a small hole with my Crop-a-Dile at each end and threaded with brown ribbon. For my centerpiece I doubled a 14" long ribbon strip, threaded it through a 2-hole button at the bottom, then through the top holes. Then I simply tied a knot at the desired spot, and flared out my strips. Since I used wired ribbon, once I pushed it down and fanned out my strips, I merely added 1/4" Scor-Tape to secure my ribbon "stem" together and cut it diagonally. On my leaves, left over when I used the flower on another project, I used Dried Marigold distress ink, then sprayed with Mimosa Glimmer Mist for a bit of sparkle and inserted the stems between the pumpkin and my taped stem. I airbrushed pipe cleaners with Copic E57, curled around a crochet hook and then around my stem.

I recently purchased Give Thanks Nested Frames during JustRite's Super Sale, so picking a stamp was easy! Since I don't yet have their Nested Frames Dies, I used the large frame as an accent border along my sentiment's left edge. I LOVE it! I die cut a Papertrey Ink Vintage Cream CS scrap (ALWAYS on my craft table!) with Spellbinders' Fancy Tags Two, masked the edges and stamped the little border and sentiment. A bit of Antique Linen distress ink, followed with a spritz of Mimosa Glimmer Mist and my sentiment tag simply slips over the stem. Once the holiday is over, you simply remove the tag/leaves/tendrils and fold all the strips under each other to easily store your pumpkin until next year!
My little place card pumpkin uses 3/8" wide strips cut 3 1/2" long and secured with orange brads at each end. A name tag for each dinner guest is made again using Spellbinders' Fancy Tags Two and the Nested Frames border, plus JustRite's 50 pt. Curlz Alphabet letters for each guest's name. I cut the fancy right end off my tag as it seemed a bit long -- don't be afraid to make your dies "work" for your needs! I also added a small leaf cut from Spellbinders' Foilage die and cut a wire stem from a paper rose, again using my E57 Copic marker to color the wire's paper wrap, curled it and added it to my tiny pumpkin.
Hope the shimmer shows on my tag/leaves as it really adds a nice touch, kind of like "frost on the pumpkin" which I never see here in the AZ desert!

Happy Halloween!!!

2011-10-31T09:18:00.002-07:00

Happy Halloween to all my crafty friends!!! I'm posting a couple of my final Halloween cards for this year that were sooo easy, as I just fell in love with this DCWV Ghosts & Goblins Matstack paper. In fact I used several of these patterns for my Halloween banner.

These two particular mats didn't need much else added to create these fun cards -- a Recollections' photograph on the front that morphs into a vampire (as seen on the photo on the orange card if you compare the two) and a bat for a fun ghoulish finish and Happy Halloween greeting inside! In retrospect, I wish I'd done a bit of distressing around the edges. I'll have to remember that next time!

Hope you all have a safe and spooky-fun holiday with family and friends!

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #72: All About Sports

2011-10-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

Our challenge at My Sheri Crafts this week is "All About Sports", so I chose to focus on cycling for my project. A sweet friend had given me this awesome Hambly Screen Print bicycle paper a long time ago and it was fun to use here -- thanks, Gwen! I kept it fairly CAS for today's card with just some embossing behind my main image. My bicycle image and sentiment are mounted on Labels Eighteen die cuts and backed with hand-cut red layers. Can't wait to see what everyone creates this week -- stop by MSC (link above) to not only see her FABULOUS new blog design and latest challenge, but to check out all the AWESOME new DT gals and their SPECTACULAR creations -- WOW!!!

Paper: Papertrey Ink's Pure Poppy and Select White CS; Hambly Screen Prints
Stamps: Papertrey's Everyday Button Bits
Ink: Memento's Tuxedo Black
Dies: Spellbinders' Labels Eighteen
Embellishments: Cuttlebug EF: Diamonds In the Rough; Papertrey Ink Buttons; The Twinery's Baker's Twine;Copic R46

Halloween Fun at the Laboratory

2011-10-23T15:25:00.004-07:00

Having created some "adult" Halloween decor fun here lately, I'm entering this both at PaperPlay Challenges (use black) and CCEE1142 (fall scene or fall-related) challenge.

Utilizing Spellbinders' Grand Large Labels, I cut various black & cream CS & book paper DP, and added the skull Flourish Sticker (Recollections). The matching flourish is my "shelf", attached with pop dots to hold my various ghoulish bottles & jars (Martha Stewart Epoxy Stickers), pop-dotting some for dimension also!

I created my Lab label with various JustRite Times New Roman alphas (25 & 50 pt.), adding some dripping blood/spots with a $1 stamp in Tim Holtz Fired Brick. For hanging, I used Tim Holtz Ball Chain, fed through black eyelets set into each corner.

Rather than also create a separate card, I'm simply attaching another cream CS Large Label die cut to the back onto which I stamped my "Happy Halloween 2011" sentiment and we've signed our names. Hope it brings a smile when it reaches its destination!

Dies Used: Spellbinders LF-168 Grand Large Labels
(#s 1, 3 & 4) and S4-168 Large Labels (#5)

JustRite Friday Challenge #060: Sketch

2011-10-17T21:11:00.000-07:00

The challenge issued at JustRite this week is to use the given sketch. I chose to do a Halloween card, as I need to quickly get mine done for timely mailing -- where has the 1st half of October already disappeared to? YIKES!
I began with a Bazzill scalloped card, cutting the scallops off the sides and embossing the bottom edge with a veritically-striped embossing folder, distressing the edges and embossed area with black ink.You may have noticed I'm pretty smitten with Spellbinders' Labels Twenty-One, especially for masculine cards, and so it appears here on my post again today! I first cut using solid black CS, then trimmed that down, using just the center pieces for a narrow border behind my word paper's circular edges.
Next I added some ghoulish Recollections' stickers I picked up recently at Michaels with grown-up recipients in mind. Utilizing my Myriad Pro 50 pt. Uppercase font, I discovered it fits the border edge of my 3 1/4" Round Stamper. By carefully inking/stamping, as the letters don't fit snugly, it worked well for me to stamp "Beware!" above the curve of my Labels die cuts -- LOVE that and I'll use this trick again!
Finishing off my card, I flattened a bottle cap in my Spellbinders' Wizard, punched a 1" scrap of DP to glue inside, then topped it off with a Martha Stewart epoxy bottle sticker. I'm quite happy with how this ghoulish card turned out!

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #71 - It's the Great Pumpkin!

2011-10-15T10:00:00.000-07:00

At My Sheri Crafts the challenge is to create a project with a pumpkin on it -- Halloween related or not -- it's entirely up to you. How easy it that?! We'd LOVE to have you join us!
My glow-in-the-dark pumpkin decor piece was created using Spellbinders' Fleur de Lis Squares for the BG and featuring one of SB's Jack 'O Lantern dies as the focal point. I die cut the largest square from Kraft CS and distressed those lovely edges.

(Taken with a black light shining into Photo Tent)

The next smaller square was cut from black CS and then for the fun part, I used 1/2" glow-in-the-dark tape to cut just the fancy edges again. Then it was simple to just tape them to my black square. Sadly, I used the last of this tape that I've had for many years, but I'll definitely be looking for more and in a wider format. I'd LOVE it in sheets too, as it cut so easily with these dies! I also used it for my Jack 'O Lantern's eyes/mouth, as you can see in these next two photos.
My hubby is a much better photographer than I, so he helped me capture the "glow"! ;~) I also have some glow-in-the-dark embossing powder (also really old) that I'm going to try to see if it will still glow. A little eerie/spooky Halloween FUN added to a project!!!


(Taken in total darkness)

Products Used:
CS/DP: Papertrey Ink: Kraft CS (BG, stem, nose), Ripe Avacado; Bazzill Black; Making Memories' Spook Alley (orange DP for Jack)
Ink: Tim Holtz Distress: Antique Linen
Dies: Spellbinders: Fleur de Lis Squares and Jack 'O Lanterns
Miscellaneous: Glow-in-the-Dark Tape and 1/4" black ribbon from my stash

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #70 - Think Pink

2011-10-08T16:34:00.000-07:00

Copic Markers Used: E000, E32, E33, R00, R20, B00

This lady (Hero Arts - retired stamp) is all dressed up for My Sheri Crafts Challenge and thinking pink to raise Breast Cancer Awareness. I've had her since 2002 when I took a class taught by a lovely lady at my local LSS which was then less than a mile from my house. I've since moved away and the store closed long ago, sadly. I still LOVE these awesome ladies in hats stamps which are mightily stained from much use. Gosh, that was five years before I even thought of blogging!
Today I stamped her in Tuxedo Black Memento Ink on white CS, die cut with Spellbinders' Big Scalloped Oval, colored her with Copic Markers and used a Sakura glitter pen to highlight her earrings. Her paper-pieced hat and collar were cut from pink suede paper, 1/8" pale pink ribbon was used for her hat band and the Breast Cancer symbol on her left shoulder. She's attached to a side-folded 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" white card embossed with Sizzix EF and my "HOPE" sentiment is made using JustRite 50pt. Curlz alphabet stamps onto a retired Spellbinders' tag die cut, tied on with the 1/8" ribbon along the card's folded edge.
Thankfully, beautiful weather is expected here tomorrow for the Phoenix Race for the Cure!

JustRite Friday Challenge 059: Fall Festival

2011-10-02T16:00:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to create a banner with Spellbinders' Nested Pennants' dies, so this JustRite challenge was perfect: "think warm, rich colors for your Fall themed project -- which can be anything you choose: a card, scrapbook page, 3D/altered project or maybe even share a Fall recipe/card that utilizes your JustRite stamps! For purposes of this challenge, “Fall Festival” covers the general Fall season or any occasion/holiday within: Back-to-School, Fall sports or outings, Halloween, Thanksgiving, etc. If you don’t have any Fall themed stamps for this challenge, remember you can always use our Fonts to create anything you’d like!"

Awaiting the arrival of more fonts/stamps from JR's current Super Sale, I die cut each pennant from different Halloween-patterned papers and varied my CS colors for my Lacey cuts. Then adding Frilly Velvet Ribbon (Hobby Lobby) to each pennant's top edge, I taped with 1/8" Scor-Tape, punched and set eyelets with my Crop-a-Dile II.
'Halloween' was created using JR's 95-pt. TNR Upper Case Font in the center of their “Damask” 1-Letter Borders. Because I LOVE the decorative touch these borders add, I alternated each of the three across my nine pennants! They were stamped with VersaMark Ink, heat embossed with "Halloween" EP (black EP/orange glitter) onto Vintage Cream CS (Papertrey Ink), die cut with Spellbinders' Lacey Circles and mounted with foam squares. After stringing the pennants together with black hemp twine, I tied a Bazzill bosher and fun fiber trims to each end. It's all ready for my recipient's Halloween decorating (if I can bear parting with it)?!

Papertrey Ink September, 2011 Blog Hop: Inspirational Photo Challenge

2011-09-25T06:58:00.045-07:00

Time for Papertrey Ink's monthly Blog Hop! Once again, I needed a male birthday card, always a challenge, so I've focused on the stripes in the inspiration photo, cutting strips from PTI's striped Turning a New Leaf DP and gluing them to Vintage Cream CS to create my BG. I love this paper's distressed look for masculine cards!
My focal image uses Half and Half's striped BG stamp with Spring Moss, stamped onto my Mat Stack 1 (Vintage Cream CS). My sentiment (Inside & Out: Birthday) and distressed edges are done in Dark Chocolate Ink. For added dimension I cut a Ripe Avocado mat by just embossing/hand cutting it and using foam dots to attach. I notched the mat's left edge, secured my trim and threaded more trim through my button. For added interest I cut Spellbinders' Banner Basics and added flat-back metal pieces to dress up the top edge. That's it for my CAS striped masculine card!

Masculine Retirement Card: Spellbinders' Style

2011-09-24T10:17:00.000-07:00

My good friend's husband recently retired and she attempted to have a surprise party for him -- LOL! We had fun in spite of the lack of surprise and this is the "manly" card I made for him.
The smaller Labels Twenty-one die cut is birch plywood from Michaels -- love it for guy cards and it cuts/embosses beautifully! Labels Sixteen was cut from cardboard, then distressed even more with Vintage Photo Distress Ink after peeling off the top layer. I used the same cardboard for my sentiment tag.
Paper: Heidi Swapp's World Traveler (card BG, houndstooth; sprocket); cardboard from stash (Labels Sixteen die; sentiment tag)
Ink: Memento's Tuxedo Black; Vintage Photo Distress
Dies: Spellbinders' Labels Sixteen and Twenty-one; Sprightly Sprockets; Grommet Tags
Embellishments: Screw brads (stash)

JustRite Friday Challenge 058: Frugal Friday Sponsored by Spellbinders

2011-09-17T10:50:00.001-07:00

The JustRite Frugal Friday challenge: "create an inexpensive gift idea (anything but a card), using something you have recycled and reused from around your house".
My tin originally held Mixed Nuts from Costco. I chose a Fall theme using the 3 1/4" round leaf border from Backyard Birds, colored with Copic Markers, and "The Beauty of Fall" sentiment from Nature Nested Sentiments and Verse stamped onto my oak leaf (a retired Spellbinders' die which includes the acorns) for decorating the lid.
Note: I used thick CS for the acorns and misted with water before embossing to get a deep impression. My leaves were distressed with Antique Linen Distress Ink. The veins were distressed while still in the die.
I covered my container with Papertrey's Autumn Abundance DP, adding a border along the top edge cut with Spellbinders' Banner Basics Three, slightly offsetting the edges using solid CS and DP to add dimension. Another pair of oak leaves and acorns were added to the side and my sweet treat is all ready for my intended recipients! Below is my drab empty clean container before I had fun decorating and filling it!

Thanks so much for coming by today -- I'm anxious to see what fabulous ideas JustRite stampers come up with for frugal gifting (something we can ALL use in today's economy)!

Happy Birthday, Cupcake: Spellbinders/Nestabling Style

2011-09-10T14:32:00.002-07:00

Needing a card for my cupcake-baking friend's birthday and needing to actually use my stash of Want2Scrap Nestabling, I chose this cupcake paper from The Paper Studio (Hobby Lobby).
Labels Five pink pearls by Nestabling really set off my focal Spellbinders' cupcake diecut image. I first cut/embossed the cuppie in Papertrey Ink's Kraft CS and distressed with Antique Linen distress ink for dimension. I used a metallic pink paper with embossed flowers for my "frosting", re-cutting the cuppie die and hand trimming along the bottom frosting edge. A single flower from that same paper sits atop and pink Cotton Candy Stickles dot the flower centers.
Fiskars' Upper Crust punch decorates the right edge and my focal image is pop-dotted over pink Making Memories ribbon. I stamped my PTI birthday greeting (curved to fit) onto a SBs' banner die to finish off this simple card.
LOVE how well the SBs dies, Nestabling and clear stamps all work so easily together to make a fun, blinged out greeting in quick fashion!

JustRite Friday Challenge 057: Shabby Chic

2011-09-07T17:07:00.002-07:00

Creative struggles continue here, but compared to most things, it's really quite trivial. Our challenge for JustRite this week was to create a shabby chic card.
I combined papers from several K & Company lines, distressed all edges and stitched my two BG papers to Papertrey Ink's Linen CS. Next I stamped flowers from JR's Plant a Little Love and colored with Copics. My die cut is Spellbinders' Lacey Circles and I again distressed its edges with Antique Linen Distress Ink. My sentiment and heart BG stamps are both from JR's Charmed cling set, stamped/distressed and then cut/embossed with JR's Custom Charm heart die. I Copic colored a bit of lace from my stash, then added pearls and sheer ribbons from my stash for the final touches.
Hope you're all staying cooler than we are here -- we're tired of breaking heat records!

Masculine Birthday: Spellbinders' Sprockets Meets Papertrey Ink

2011-08-31T14:50:00.000-07:00

We needed a masculine birthday card for a special friend from my hubby's past associations, so I chose Spellbinders' sprockets, die cut from their bronze metal foil. LOVE these metal foils for guy cards (and much more)!
My sentiment is heat embossed using two separate stamps from a fabulous Papertrey Ink set, Big Birthday Wishes, an awesome set for everyone from children to seniors!
To keep the masculine feel, I die cut the 80 from birch plywood purchased at Michaels with a retired Sizzix set and glued the "nail heads" (punch outs from the largest sprocket, actually!) to my numbers for added dimension.
We've had a couple "big" birthdays recently among friends/family, so I'm really putting this new PTI set to good use! Your visit today is much appreciated as well as any thoughts you'd like to share on my posts. :~)

Papertrey Ink August, 2011 Blog Hop: Inspirational Photo Challenge

2011-08-25T06:57:00.000-07:00

An inspirational photo (shown below) challenged us this month for Papertrey Ink's blog hop -- another great photo because it can be interpreted in so many ways! My inspiration came from the lady's checked dress and the bouquet of flowers. Every product used on my very CAS card is available at Papertrey Ink with the exception of the DMC embroidery floss and Sakura Jelly Roll glitter pen.
Using PTI's Stampers Select White CS for my 1/4 fold card, I die cut the right edge with Edger's #3 Die. Bitty Box Basics paper was used to cut a Half & Half die shape, as well as a 1" piece with the Edger's die. I glued this inside my card's right edge so it just peeks out for a tiny pop of color. LOVE the Half & Half and edger dies and I will use the larger edger on my envelope's edge too!
My stem, flower and sentiment from Botanical Silhouettes are stamped with Landscape and Raspberry Fizz inks. I think the Jelly Roll glitter pen adds a nice touch to my bloom! Then I simply tied embroidery floss through a PTI button for a very quick and simple finish.

Thanks for coming by and have a hopping good time today!!!

JustRite Friday Challenge 056: Shaped Holiday Card or Tag

2011-08-23T16:57:00.001-07:00

With 116-degree record-setting heat today in the desert, I chose white & silver for my Christmas card for the returning JustRite Friday Challenge. YAY!!! I'm very happy with the result and almost felt cool while working on it! Regardless, it's wonderful to have another holiday card for my stash.
This one features JustRite's Vintage Christmas ornaments stamped on pearl vellum, embossed in silver and framed using Spellbinders' Labels Sixteen. My frame is cut from Papertrey Ink's Shimmer CS, stamped with a Vintage Christmas border, silver embossed and mounted with foam dots to a silver CS layer die cut from Label Twenty-One's largest die. I traced that same die onto Shimmer CS and a folded grey card from my stash, cut around both by hand and mounted the main image with foam dots.
I used JustRite's 25-pt. Times New Roman alphabet for my sentiment, die cut with a Spellbinders' Grommet Tag. Accents include narrow silver ribbon from my stash tied into a bow on the left to secure my sentiment tag and Recollections rhinestones.
I appreciate your stopping by today and hope you're keeping cool wherever you are!!!

Mojo Monday Sketch #203: Birthday Flea Market Style

2011-08-14T18:56:00.007-07:00

I can't seem to leave this Flea Market (Colorbok) paper alone! Inspired by the Mojo Monday #203 sketch for this week, I now have another much-needed birthday card for my stash.
Starting with Papertrey Ink's Kraft CS, I added a rectangle of the DP, a Big Scalloped Circle LG Spellbinders' die cut from their glitter paper pack and a hand-cut "varnished" rose. Accents include a punched scalloped edge and Copic-colored lace sewn on by machine, as well as a "rose vine" corner and tiny floss bow.
My sentiment is also from Papertrey Ink and I hand cut it to fit in with my main image.

Mehndi Medallion Thank You

2011-08-10T14:25:00.001-07:00

If you've not yet seen this fabulous Mehndi Medallion acrylic stamp set by Papertrey Ink, you are truly missing out. It consists of the large medallion used here on my CAS card, 2 medium-sized medallions, a small one and 2 tiny ones, a total of 6 stamps for a mere $5 investment! I'd have purchased it even if it had been $15 or $24 just because the samples I've seen on Nichole's blog and the Papertrey Forum are amazing, but for such a teeny price tag, it's beyond a bargain. I think this is one set I may "wear out" in a short time -- LOL!
Today I've paired the medallion stamped in Aqua Mist ink with a sentiment from Giga Guide Lines stamped in True Black ink on white CS. For finishing touches I used PTI's Edgers #3 die along the card's opening, dabbed with Aqua Mist ink, and Martha Stewart seam binding in an absolutely perfectly-matched color IRL -- if only my camera could capture that -- sigh! Today Nichole's peek into this month's release revealed an impression plate of this very medallion -- be still my heart -- which almost makes me wish I had a job so I could purchase more often (big sigh)!

Papertrey Ink July 2011 Blog Hop: Inspirational Photo Challenge

2011-07-25T06:58:00.001-07:00

Hooray -- it's time for Papertrey Ink's July Blog Hop! Needing a masculine birthday card, I felt these inspiration colors would be perfect! Taking inspiration from the blinds on the window, I die cut Mat Stack 1 from balsa wood. With Dark Chocolate ink, I simply picked the ink up on a stiff-bristled brush and "dry brushed" it onto my die to better simulate the blinds. I then die cut Spellbinders Labels Eleven from Orange Zest CS, embossed lines with a Cuttlebug folder (based on the slats in the blinds and the stripes on one pillow).
All papers, stamps, inks and Mat Stack Die are PTI!

I'm so excited to see what everyone else created!

Mojo Monday Sketch #200

2011-07-24T18:55:00.012-07:00

For this week's Sketch #200 at Mojo Monday
I decided to do a Christmas card featuring a snowflake!

My paper is by Bella Press (and is OLD!) and my snowflake is a combo of 2 Spellbinders' snowflake sets and my sentiment is stamped on a Spellbinders' Classic Scalloped Square Small.

My stamp is from The Craft Lounge (not sure if they're any longer in business) and my ink is Memento's Danube Blue! The fun elasticized sheer ribbon is from Hobby Lobby's wedding aisle.

Gotta rush to meet the deadline!!!

Papertrey Ink's Stamp-a-faire Challenge 6

2011-07-23T20:59:00.002-07:00

EDITED TO ADD: Oops, I was a bit too late to get this one posted at PTI -- had a blast anyway!!! ;-)

For the last challenge from Papertrey Ink tonight for me, I chose to do a very simple Christmas Card, using Wreath for all Seasons, stamped in Ripe Avocado Ink on PTI's gorgeous Gold CS and using a Merry Christmas sentiment from the same stamp set.

The challenge here was to use a "notch" of some type (your choice) to secure your ribbon/trim of choice in place. There are truly so many options for this fun embellishment "holder", but I simply used a 1/4" punch to securely hold my 1/4" red satin ribbon in this instance.

I had sooo much fun today/tonight playing in all the challenges issued but one -- wish I had just a bit more time to also do that challenge, but I'm a "slow" stamper as a rule, so feel pretty good that I got this many finished.

Thanks for your visits!!!!

Papertrey Ink's Stamp-a-faire Challenge 9

2011-07-23T20:29:00.000-07:00

I've always loved this curly little enclosure for the sentiments from Everyday Classics, but it also totally makes me think of a shelf, so I've used it here, along with a hand-drawn line for my "shelf" sitting atop the shelf "brackets"! (This is for this challenge.)

A pitcher of zinnias stamped with Autumn Abundance (one of my favs) sits atop my shelf, colored with Copics (Y17, Y21, YG95, YR07) and backed by PTI's Orange Zest CS, all corners rounded with my 1/4" corner rounder. I left this one simple (probably because my brain is tired after 7 cards in one day)!!! LOL!!! Hmmm, think Nichole said 10, so I've got very little time to do any more -- better go check!

Papertrey Ink's Stamp-a-faire Challenge 8

2011-07-23T18:51:00.000-07:00

For Challenge 8 today, I wanted to create a soft, subtle card, with just a pop of glitter to spice it up. Need to send this to a friend who's having a rough time -- always nice to know you're in someone's thoughts!
I took my cue from the colors Nichole used and then added Turquoise and Diamond glitter glue to the Friends Til the End flower center and to my fun edge created with Background Basics: Tin Types. I just love doing a card with this fun edge technique and must remember to do so more often -- it can add sooo much!!!
Finishing it all off, I took a length of PTI's 1/4" silk ribbon, added it to a snack-size baggie, rubbed my BG15 Aqua Copic along the inside of the bag, spritzed it with Copic Colorless Blender and sealed it. I then smushed it around until my ribbon was the perfect shade, dried it for a minute under the ceiling fan (because the Copic solution is alcohol-based, drying time is very fast!), wrapped it around my card and tied my bow.
Six challenges down, four to go -- doubt I'll finish them all in less than two hours, but it's been sooo FUN!!!

Papertrey Ink's Stamp-a-faire Challenge 7

2011-07-23T17:17:00.000-07:00

For Nichole's 7th challenge of the day we were to try to combine 2 or 3 images from different sets together. I don't have a lot of the fabby newer sets (sadly), but I love finding ways to combine those I do have.

Here I've used the large leafy image from Four of a Kind with the flower from Botanical Silhouettes, as well as my sentiment and the grass on the right side. The sweet little birdie is from Everyday Classics -- YIKES, I seem to be a "bird" roll today! All papers, stamps, inks are Papertrey Ink.

Off to see what challenge I can try next -- I just love doing these and only wish we had the chance more often, as it's really fun to get on a crafting roll (and even more so when there's a fabulous prize to be won)!!! Thanks for stopping in!

Papertrey Ink's Stamp-a-faire Challenge 5

2011-07-23T15:43:00.000-07:00

My faux border for this challenge was created using a solid flower stamp from Papertrey Ink's Four of a Kind stamp set, placed along my left edge in Raspberry Fizz ink. I then stamped the vine in Ripe Avocado ink from Turning a New Leaf, added the floral burst image and my sentiment from Botanical Silhouettes.

The addition of leaf ribbon along the edge and a little bird from Colorbok's Flea Market line finished off this challenge card -- wish I thought I'd be able to complete all today's great challenges, but I don't think it will be possible, sadly! ;~( Sooo much fun to try though!!!

Papertrey Ink's Stamp-a-faire Challenge 1

2011-07-23T14:28:00.001-07:00

My decorative element strip for this challenge (here) is made using Guide Lines and for the very first time (though I purchased it looong ago) I've used Guide Lines Grid Sheets for my CS -- who woulda thought?! LOL!!!

I also chose to do a strip of a fav patterned paper from PTI, Dotty Biscotti punched with Fiskars Upper Crest punch.

PTI's Round & Round stamps are what I chose for my focal image as well as for my birthday greeting which I stamped on a Spellbinders' banner die.

All papers, stamps, ink are by PTI and the ribbon is something unknown that's been in my stash forever (right alongside that grid paper). Now that I've used it, it's likely to become a fav.

Papertrey Ink's Stamp-a-faire Challenge 3

2011-07-23T12:23:00.001-07:00

For this fun challenge today (here) I wanted to use one of my fav stamps from Everyday Button Bits. The challenge is to punch a window from your card cover and tie ribbon or twine from the window to the side of your card. As it turned out, the only PTI buttons large enough in my stash for my bicycle were pale yellow, but I really LOVE the soft color palette I ended up with!!!

Paper: PTI's Kraft and Fine Linen CS; Dotty Biscotti DP
Stamps: Everyday Button Bits
Ink: Dark Chocolate
Accessories: PTI's Mat Stack 1 Die and Spring Mix Vintage Button Collection; Martha Stewart Ribbon; Copic Marker E31

Papertrey Ink's Stamp-a-faire Challenge 2

2011-07-23T11:07:00.000-07:00

Since Dawn McVey's card and signature color are featured for this challenge, I've used her Scattered Showers' stamp set for my simple card. I chose the sentiment to let everyone at Stamp-a-faire in Cincinnati today know how happy I am that you were able to share in the fun we at home know you're having! We're also happy to be able to share in that fun via Twitter and Nichole's blog!!! This is the first challenge (of many I hope) to enter a card for today, so had to make it one for all of you out there like me who LOVE PTI!

Paper: Raspberry Fizz, Smokey Shadow, White CS; Bitty Dot Basics DP
Stamps: Scattered Showers
Ink: Charcoal; Raspberry Fizz
Accessories: Tag Sale #1 Die, Rickrack Border; Copic Marker C-5; heart gem from stash

Mojo Monday Sketch #199: Flea Market Style

2011-07-17T16:35:00.008-07:00

Time for another Mojo Monday Sketch and I've again used Colorbok's Flea Market DP. I'm obviously drawn to these papers, so I just went with it! I played off the doily/rose paper, using it for my main element, die cut with a Spellbinders' Nestabilities Classic Circle and backed by a purchased white doily. Next I stamped my JustRite Just a Note sentiment directly onto a smaller doily and lightly edged it with Aqua Mist ink. A strip of Flea Market glittered paper tops my Floral Doily Accent along the bottom and is topped off by a handmade flower made with Winter White Hug Snug seam binding. I used the flower loom my hubby helped me make following Becca Feeken's tutorial here. Thanks so much, Becca, for sharing your unbelievable talent. To complete my flower I cut the center from another doily, edged it again with aqua ink and added a glittery pink brad.
I can't wait to visit some of the other fabulous entries at Mojo Monday's blog!!!

Mojo Monday Sketch #198: Flea Market Style

2011-07-08T21:32:00.002-07:00

Using a combination of Colorbok's Flea Market DPs and Spellbinders' dies I created my entry for Mojo Monday's Sketch #198. I paired the gorgeous Flea Market 12" rose "varnished" CS with the Flea Market dictionary paper from their 8" x 8" paper pad and zig-zag stitched the edges. My hand-cut bird is perched atop a Spellbinders' Floral Doily Motif and my pink scalloped vertical border is cut with Banner Basics Two. The birthday sentiment is from JustRite's 'Just a Note' stamp set.
I really enjoyed working with this fabulous sketch and you still have until Sunday evening to post your entry!

Paper: Colorbok's Flea Market (12" x 12" and 8" x 8" Paper Pads)
Stamps: JustRite's Just a Note stamp set
Ink: Papertrey Ink's Dark Chocolate and Ranger's Antique Linen Distress Ink
Dies: Spellbinders' Foral Doily Motifs, Banner Basics Two and Standard Circles Large

Masculine Birthday: Flea Market

2011-07-04T22:11:00.005-07:00

Edited to Add: Re-posted edited final photo of card -- just wasn't happy and realized it needed a bit more distressing -- better now!

Using Colorbok's Flea Market DP line, I created this card for one of two male friends' birthdays on my list. I kept this one fairly CAS by utilizing the numerical paper, complimentary striped paper and brown/aqua solids. Spellbinders' Banner Basics Two border accents the top striped layer and my Papertrey Ink sentiment is stamped on a Ribbon Banner tucked under the red bird's tail feathers, which I pre-cut with my craft knife.

That's it -- short and sweet and perfect for popping in the mail!

Paper: Colorbok's Flea Market 12" and 8" Paper Pads
Stamps: Papertrey Ink's Everyday Classics
Ink: Papertrey Ink's Dark Chocolate; Antique Linen Distress
Tools: Spellbinders' Ribbon Banner; Banner Basics Two dies

Papertrey Ink June 2011 Blog Hop: Color Inspiration

2011-06-25T07:00:00.004-07:00

I took my inspiration for Papertrey Ink's June 2011 Blog Hop from the colors in the wall and the tulle on the dance wear in the inspiration photo. Using various widths of PTI CS and DPs, I zig-zag stitched them together to form my card's BG.

I next cut 2 white tags from Tag Sale #1 die and after stamping my sentiment and decorative details and adding pearls to one tag, I ran a basting stitch through a piece of tulle, gathered it and folded it to create two layers. Then I adhered the tulle with Scor-Tape along the back edges of the stamped tag and used Scor-Tape to adhere the 2nd tag to the back to finish it. Ribbon and tulle through the tag's top finish it off.

I'm very anxious to see what fabulous creations everyone else posts today!

All CS/DP, stamps, ink (Papertrey Ink)
Pearls (ZVA Creative)
Ribbon & Tulle (from stash)

My Sheri Crafts Challenge #62: Beach/Summer Theme

2011-06-19T18:33:00.000-07:00

This week's challenge at My Sheri Crafts perfectly fits a project I just completed using Tattered Angels Seaside Beachcomber Embossed Glimmer Chips/Tiles, various Tattered Angels Glimmer Mists and Tim Holtz Distress Inks.
This brings back memories of visiting the CA beaches when our kids were little, since we lived within 30 minutes of the ocean. Although I was never a big fan of actually being in the water or the hot clingy sand everywhere, the ocean itself is such a gorgeous powerful force rolling onto shore. I think I'm much better suited to dry land and now living in the SW desert, I definitely get to experience that -- LOL!
This project was something definitely out of my comfort zone, but it was fun to experiment with the mists and play with the tile and especially the fish/seashell chips, all while taking a little walk down memory lane!

Products used:
Tattered Angels Seaside Beachcomber Embossed Glimmer Chips
Tattered Angels Glimmer Mists (various colors)
QuicKutz/Lifestyle Crafts 2011 Spring Gift Set RV (Alpha letters)

Tim Holtz Distress Inks (Antique Linen/Wild Honey)

Masculine Well Wishes Card

2011-06-17T12:10:00.004-07:00

When my mojo has gone missing, I scour the web hoping to find inspiration again. When all else failed recently, I decided to organize my beloved Spellbinders' dies and Sprightly Sprockets caught my attention. I CASEd a card I'd seen by Judy Hayes, changing up the papers, sentiment die and sentiment. I too sanded my gorgeous SEI papers and really love how this turned out -- perfect get well wishes for a male friend of ours! I'm now hopeful my creative juices will begin flowing and I'll be posting again soon! Do you ever turn to CASEing a card for this same reason?
Papers: SEI's Windsor line
Stamps: Papertry Ink's Everyday Classics (Limited Edition)
Ink: Papertrey Ink's Dark Chocolate
Dies: Spellbinders' Labels Sixteen, Labels Eighteen, Labels Twenty-One, Sprightly Sprockets, Ribbon Tags Three
Miscellaneous: brads, sand paper

Lifestyle Crafts Spring 2011 Wildflower Gift Set Album

2011-06-10T19:53:00.001-07:00

I recently received the Lifestyle Crafts Spring 2011 Wildflower Gift Set (on sale right now at Creating Everlasting Memories), which includes this album, plus 11 dies, mini alphabet die set and 24 patterned papers. I don't normally scrapbook, but this was just too tempting.
For the cover I've used one of the patterned papers and solid papers also included to die cut the darling bird. I chose cream felt to die cut the flower petals, edged them in Tim Holtz Mustard Seed Distress Ink and added a glittery brad. One day I'll finish it off with some treasured photos, but in the meantime I'm really enjoying looking at it every time I enter my craft room.
If any of you are Tattered Angels fans, be sure to check out the giveaway at our Creating Memories in Time blog. The monthly challenge there is to create either a Father's Day or Independence Day project -- very simple -- and you could win a ton of TA goodies!!!

Double-Pocket Tag Card

2011-06-02T16:51:00.029-07:00

This double-pocket card follows a pattern I’ve had for years on a piece of folded computer paper and I don't recall who first shared it with me now. It requires one 8 ½” x 11“ sheet of double-sided CS (all-over patterns work; one-way patterns will not).
Fold top left section over top right section with folded corner to inside. Create a 4 ¼” folded corner at bottom right just as you did on top left corner and fold this section up over top right section, folding left bottom section to the back of your card.To complete double-pocket card, tape first pocket edge to card front; tape bottom left pocket edges down. For my card front I die cut 4 Lifestyle Crafts Nesting Tags (CC-TAGS-01 available at Creating Everlasting Memories), stamped a different birthday greeting on each, set an eyelet at top center, embellished with fibers and added them to my pockets.

I then stamped a large birthday sentiment on the inside of my card.

JustRite Friday Challenge 055: Color

2011-05-25T16:59:00.008-07:00

WOW -- a truly fabulous
C O L O R palette for this week's JustRite Friday Challenge! My mojo had gone missing during my recent "stay-cation" (enjoying our son's visit with us), but I'm finally feeling its return. Woo-Hoo! I totally think this palette is beach perfect, but I chose to use my new Forever Friends cling set from JustRite and I'm quite pleased with the result!
I so enjoy using my Copic markers in ways included on this card -- to color the small heart on the sentiment stamp, to add a bit more color to the tiny heart sticker adorning my large sentiment (it was very pale aqua before) and most of all, coloring my seam binding for my wrinkled ribbon/bow, all using B01 Mint Blue. You truly do not have to be someone who colors (well or otherwise) to derive fabulous benefits from Copic markers!
I cut/embossed the 3 largest Spellbinders' Heart Circles' dies in Papertrey Ink's Linen & Vintage Cream CS, as well as my Ribbon Tags Trio Three die from Linen. YES -- the JustRite Forever Friends' cling stamps fit these Spellbinders' ribbon dies -- a HUGE bonus for me! I then stamped my two sentiments and antiqued all pieces in Papertrey Inks' Chamomile/Chai inks. Happily I now have another birthday card to add to my stash!

Papertrey Ink May 2011 Blog Hop: Flowers

2011-05-25T06:45:00.001-07:00

Papertrey Ink's monthly Blog Hop time again and this was a very fun one, as the theme was your favorite take on flowers! I was the lucky giveaway winner of the Limited Edition CHA 2010 stamp set, Four of a Kind. This set features these awesome big flowers and large-scale sentiments -- perfect for what I wanted to create -- a Shrinky Dink keychain tag. Don't you just love seeing the scale of the stamps on the accompanying card versus those on the tag, knowing both were made with the exact same stamps? So fun!
Needing a large die, I chose #3 (#1 being the smallest) Spellbinders' Grand Scalloped Oval, using it for both tag and card. Cutting my polyshrink plastic first, I then punched a large hole and stamped with Ripe Avocado, Raspberry Fizz and True Black inks. No need to let dry as heating with my heat gun to shrink sets the ink. I just love how it turned out! I simply die cut another scalloped oval with the same die, stamped my card (5" x 6 1/2") and finished it off by rounding the corners, adding knotted PTI Swiss Dot ribbon and then ZVA Creative Pearls to both card and tag and it's all ready to give away! Anxious to see all the creative ideas I KNOW will appear throughout this Blog Hop today!!!

Simplicity

2011-05-20T08:33:00.001-07:00

I took a little break from paper crafting recently and wanted to begin my first day back in the craft room after my "stay-cation" (spent at home enjoying our son's visit!) by posting a sweet little simple card I created recently that is perfect when you need one ASAP!

Using LifeStyle Crafts (formerly QuicKutz) Nesting Rectangles die (CC-RCTANGLES-01 available at Creating Everlasting Memories) I cut my Bazzill CS frames and flower (discontinued QK die) and added my Papertrey Ink sentiment (Everyday Button Bits). Keeping it simple, I merely added a row of ZVA Creative Pearls to my main image frame and additional leaf and pearls to embellish the sentiment.

Just add your handwritten message inside -- a "grab and go" handmade card that shows you care!

JustRite Friday Challenge 054: Sketch and Embellish Blog: Square Trends Color Challenge

2011-05-11T06:43:00.004-07:00

Edited to Add: Trying to fix some glitches today that resulted on this post when Blogger was having a temper tantrum!

Due to creative time constraints this week, I've combined JustRite's Friday Challenge, to create a square card following their posted sketch, with Embellish Blog's Challenge sponsored by JustRite to create a square card following their posted colors. Once I chose my CS colors, I really enjoyed creating this square card in these luscious pastel colors with Stampin' Up CS!
I used Spellbinders' Grand Scalloped Squares on my 5 1/2" square card. Tattered Angels (Cosmos) Glimmer Mist covers my Lattice Rectangles sentiment frame and Butterflies (retired die) and ZVA Creative Pearls accent the bottom left corner.
My birthday sentiment is from JustRite's All Occasion Nested Sentiments' stamp set and my decorative border is Martha Stewart's Garden Rail border punch topped off with ribbon from my stash that I pleated onto 1/4" Scor Tape.
Hope you're all having a crafty week; I'll be enjoying my son's visit! ;~)

Happy Mother's Day Card 2011

2011-05-05T06:46:00.000-07:00

I couldn't possibly think of a more fitting Mother's Day card for my nearly 95-year-old Mother-in-Law who still occasionally makes a new dress for herself. She's always been the most amazing seamstress, as she could take the bodice from one pattern, the sleeves from another and the skirt from a third pattern and create the most elegantly beautiful silk-embroidered, pearl bedecked wedding dress you'd ever hope to envision. She did exactly that for one of her Granddaughter's several years ago! She first purchased nylon net and made up a prototype dress that fit her like a glove, making necessary adjustments before cutting into the gorgeous, expensive silk. She also would just see a dress in a store and sketch it out on scratch paper, then go home and perfectly re-create the dress. I have always been in awe of her! When I got this QK/Lifestyle Crafts Sewing Machine Die (REV 0211-S), I realized it would be perfect for her Mother's Day Card. Here's how I created my card:

Die cut sewing machine (REV-0211-S) from cream and silver CS;

Die cut pin cushion (KS-0954) from red and green CS; additional stem piece from clear plastic (to strengthen stem);

Stamp sentiment (Little Paper Shop {All Occasions set}) on stem/tomato pieces; punch tiny hole through stem/plastic backing; add green safety pin and 3 sequin pins to pin cushion securing with pop dot on back;

Using Tim Holtz Antique Linen Distress Ink, distress sewing machine and card edges of 4 ¼” x 5 ½” cream CS;

Assemble sewing machine, winding thread around spool die cut (DMC Floss #814);

Cut DP (Cosmo Cricket’s “Material Girl”) to 4” x 5 ¼”, secure to card with double-sided tape 1/4” inside DP edges, then zig-zag stitch with cream thread to card;

Attach sewing machine with pop dots; add Bobbin Ribbon “Tape Measure” to left edge, tying in double knot and fraying edges;

Add sentiment pin cushion with safety pin to knot.

Hope you're having a wonderfully crafty day today wherever you are and Happy Mother's Day to all Moms out there!!!

Just Because . . . in Lavender

2011-04-29T21:22:00.003-07:00

We can never have too many "Just Because" cards made up ahead for those times when we need a quick card to dash off in the mail to someone, so I chose Lifestyle Crafts Nesting Ovals dies for this simple greeting in shades of lavender to add to my card stash.

All lavender shades of CS and Kraft CS are from Papertrey Ink, as are all my stamped images.
I chose ZVA Creative Pearls for decorative accents, as well as Martha Stewart's Eyelet Lace border punch and 1 1/2" wide sheer ribbon. Quite simple, yet still elegant -- just because!

For all your Lifestyle Crafts dies, MS punches and ZVA Creative needs, visit Creating Everlasting Memories, where you'll currently find great sale prices on my many items, including these Nesting Ovals!

Patchwork Heart Mother's Day Card

2011-04-27T11:44:00.002-07:00

I originally saw a similar torn/patchwork heart card years ago in Papercrafts' Magazine. I recall they used blue/brown papers and I've always loved that original card. I CASEd it at the time, but it was before I had a camera, let alone a blog! I decided to re-create the torn/patchwork heart using Lifestyle Crafts Nesting Hearts (CC-HEARTS-01) by cutting the next to largest heart once from white CS (for a backing) & 3 from different Making Memories "Sabrina" patterned papers. I hand tore sections from the patterned paper hearts and attached them to my CS heart, edging my heart with coordinating ink. Next, I cut a 3 ¾” square from decorative CS, punched all corners with my ticket punch & attached it to a 4 ½” Bazzill square card, adding coordinating ZVA Creative Pearls at the corners. Die cut your next to smallest Nesting Oval (CC-OVALS-01) from white CS, stamp a sentiment & edge with ink. Attach eyelet & jump ring to ribbon & tie around card front and secure patchwork heart over ribbon. A fairly simple card, but still pretty, I think!
For a great sale price right now on both Nesting Hearts & Nesting Ovals see Creating Everlasting Memories!

JustRite Friday Challenge 53: Technique, Sponosored by Spellbinders!

2011-04-25T08:24:00.001-07:00

When I saw JustRite's technique challenge to create your own dimensional handmade flower, I knew exactly what I'd make! I recently saw several fabulous zipper flowers on the web, though apparently they've been around for awhile! Rummaging through my sewing supplies, my only long metal zipper was white. After considering coloring it with my Copics, I decided to keep the white/silver color combo.
I intended to make a card, but finally decided on a simple mini scrapbook, my first! Having seen Donna Salazar's projects and Mona Pendleton's recent creations with corrugated paper, I was anxious to try it. I LOVE how this turned out and will definitely be doing corrugated paper projects again!
I simply tore the top layer off a piece of cardboard, die cut the covers with Spellbinders' Creative Book Pages die and applied white Making Memories' paint with a foam brush. My JustRite Dream Big sentiment (Just a Note Borders & Centers) was stamped with VersaMark and embossed with silver EP on Bazzill paper die cut with Spellbinders' Large Labels #2. After embossing Spellbinders' craft foil with the same die, I cut it out by hand to achieve a sentiment frame. Inside pages are die cut using Papertrey Ink's Kraft CS, and the book is finished using a Zutter Bind-it-All with 1/2" White binding wire and a couple silver ribbon embellishments. Now I just need to work on filling my little scrapbook up with fond memories! Glad you came for a visit today -- happy crafting!

Paper Doll Friends

2011-04-18T16:33:00.000-07:00

This was such a fun set of Lifestyle Crafts (formerly QuicKutz) dies to play with!!! I first embossed the Paper Doll Border die (#059) onto my BG paper and then die cut my 2 Paper Dolls (#0281) from cream CS. Now for the really fun part, I cut various DPs from the Dresses (#0282) die to dress them, adding buttons for trim and even socks/shoes by simply cutting different DPs and trimming with my small curved scissors. NOTE: For boy dolls, simply use the Paper Dolls die and cut his shirt/pants from it too, as well as socks/shoes!
All DPs are by Heidi Grace Designs and sentiment from Papertrey Ink's Friends 'til the End stamp set. Three coordinating ZVA Creative Pearls finish off this card!
Hope you enjoyed your visit here today! For these dies, ZVA Creative Pearls and much more, please visit Creating Everlasting Memories for great selections/great pricing!!!

Masculine All-Occasion Card

2011-04-17T07:58:00.001-07:00

I had recently purchased a 6 x 6 Making Memories "Just Chillin' Boy collection paper pad and springtime color grommets at Tuesday Morning, so I whipped up this fun little masculine card suitable for just about any occasion! Using Spellbinders' nested stars, I cut two stars in different patterns, piercing holes all around the larger one and setting a Making Memories star grommet into the smaller one. My star is mounted on a BG paper of graduated colors from the same paper pad and all pieces are distressed with Tim Holtz Antique Linen Distress Ink. I then created my sentiment with JustRite's 25-point Times New Roman font, stamped onto a banner strip, tucked it under the star, and finished off this card with 3 small eyelets in the bottom corner and some hemp twine.
I'm working on several projects and waiting on a couple things I've ordered to finish up, so I'll be back soon with more to post! Hope you're having a lovely, crafty weekend!!!

Happy Birthday, Sue!!!

2011-04-15T07:50:00.000-07:00

Sue Lelli, a cyber friend I've yet to meet in person, but who is ever so sweet and has given me some fabulous advice on papercrafting "necessities", as well as many laughs along the way, is having a birthday! So it was a perfect time to create a card for her that uses her fav brown/pink color combo. Stop by Sue's blog, Paper Therapy, located here: http://suelelli.blogspot.com/ and enjoy her fabulously beautiful creations!
I love this BG paper and have always loved paisley shapes. Don't tell Sue that my intent was to use my SB's Paisley Impressabilities on the bottom of my card, which I realized I'd forgotten once it was securely taped down -- oops! With my big sheer bow, the fun SB's Floral Doily Accents border and frame stamped with PTI's birthday wishes, I'm sure she didn't even miss those paisley impressions -- LOL! Happy Birthday, Sue!
Thanks for popping in today, come back soon and happy crafting!!!

JustRite Friday Challenge 52: Color and Inspiration

2011-04-13T21:27:00.002-07:00

Once I had a chance to work on this JustRite challenge, my mojo went missing, so here I am getting my post in shortly before the deadline again -- sigh!!! Even though this card is nothing like what was in my head, I like it!
I paired some pretty K & Company papers I've had forever with Spellbinders' Blossom Three cut from PTI's Lemon Tart & Summer Sunrise CS. A fun discovery was that my 'You're So Sweet' sentiment (from JR's stamp set of the same name) fits perfectly in the Spellbinders' Blossom Three #2 die -- how fun is that?!
Since I only had two of the four Copic suggested colors, Y21 (Buttercup Yellow) & YG63 (Pea Green), I stamped my sentiment in Memento's Rich Cocoa and colored the border with them. My leaves are cut from Spellbinders' Foilage die and my triple-layered borders are die cut using Spellbinders' Big Scalloped Border Petites and finished off with clear gems Copic colored with my Y21 marker -- another of my fav Copic tricks! I gathered up my center-stitched ribbon and distressed all edges with either Wild Honey or Peeled Paint Distress Inks.
Can't wait to go see all the other challenge entries!!!

A Pirate's Life for Me!

2011-04-06T14:56:00.000-07:00

I kept this 6-inch square card very simple because I felt my die-cut pirate ship made quite a statement all on its own on this gorgeous BG paper! My BG paper is by Creative Imaginations and the ship was cut and then lightly sanded using Core'dinations papers.
I used Distress inks to antique the ship and the edges of my card. Ahoy Matey!!!

Products used here available at Creating Everlasting Memories include:
Lifestyle Crafts (formerly QuicKutz) REV-0081 pirate ship die
Tim Holtz Distress Inks: Antique Linen and Vintage Photo

Flourish Happy Birthday Card by Lifestyle Crafts

2011-04-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to cover myself and my studio in glitter -- LOL -- so I die cut this Lifestyle Crafts (formerly QuicKutz) Flourish die from double-sided adhesive, arranged them and pressed them onto my card front. I then covered the flourishes with Martha Stewart's Tourmaline glitter. It truly does "get everywhere", but it's sooo BEAUTIFUL!
I kept the rest pretty simple so my glittered flourishes could take center stage and simply stamped my Papertrey Ink sentiment in PTI's Raspberry Fizz ink on another die cut (from the Lifestyle Crafts A2 Collection shown on my April 2nd post). I then took a Stampin' Up punch to each edge, threaded my May Arts sheer pink ribbon through, tied a bow and rounded the corners.
Other than glitter clean-up time, a quick, sparkly birthday card for my stash! Hope you're having a lovely & crafty day today!!!
Both these dies and many May Arts ribbons are available at Creating Everlasting Memories EBay store so be sure to check those out, as well as our DT Blog at Creating Memories in Time, where you can play along for our monthly Blog Candy!

All Occasion Bird Cage Card

2011-04-03T21:54:00.000-07:00

This bird cage is only one of 2 cages in this 2-die set (the other sits on a floor stand!) available from Lifestyle Crafts (formerly QuicKutz) at Creating Everlasting Memories EBay Store. My sentiment is stamped on their Nesting Ovals die. I just love these dies paired here with this fun Heidi Grace Double-sided CS and Papertrey Ink's Smokey Shadow and Vintage Cream CS. I hand cut my little yellow bird from a felt flower I'd had forever and added a Kaiser pearl for his eye, along with several other pearls to the cage and my sentiment oval. Just think this makes a fun little all-occasion card to have in my stash! What do you think? I think I need to get a card made with the other fabulous bird cage die from this same set! ;~)
Don't forget our Design Team has a monthly blog hop with Blog Candy that has begun here: Creating Memories in Time.
Supplies list:
REV-0313-D Bird Cage
CC-OVALS-01 (used for sentiment)Heidi Grace Double-sided patterned CS
Papertrey's Smokey Shadow and Vintage Cream CS; Birds of a Feather stamps; Vintage Cream Ink
Kaiser Craft Pewter Pearls

A2 Collection Die Set by Lifestyle Crafts: Birthday Wishes

2011-04-02T19:26:00.001-07:00

I had so much fun playing with this new Lifestyle Crafts (formerly QuicKutz) A2 Collection die set and My Mind's Eye Lush papers and coordinating Lush gems. The dies in this set include the front gatefold piece, the inside mat shape, the envelope liner die, plus 6 other shape dies for tags, enclosures, etc. I'll definitely be making more of these A2 Collection die-cut cards very soon! This set will be AWESOME for invitations or announcements of any/all types, so I may do that for my next project with these dies. My sentiment is from Papertrey Ink.

This A2 Collection die and MANY others are available at Creating Everlasting Memories EBay store so be sure to check it out at your first opportunity, as well as our DT Blog at Creating Memories in Time, where you can play along for Blog Candy this month!

Happy Easter Chick Gift Box: QuicKutz Style and BLOG CANDY

2011-04-01T07:30:00.000-07:00

I've had this wooden "egg-shaped" box for a looong time, so decided it was the perfect shape for an Easter treat. The box is covered in handmade paper that reminded me of hand-dyed eggs. I cut the chick (QuicKutz/Lifestyle Crafts die #Rev-0184-S) using craft felt and the egg from the same die in Bazzill Shimmer CS. The egg and box edges are distressed with Antique Linen Distress Ink. Chick/egg are grounded with Toffee FlowerSoft.
A Happy Easter greeting and small egg adorn the front side of my treat box, die cut with QuicKutz Nameplate die RS-0624, edged with Antique Linen Distress Ink and stamped by stamping off once. This is achieved by stamping the inked egg/sentiment first on scratch paper before stamping onto the die cut, which lightened my Memento Bahama Blue dye ink so it better matches the blue in my handmade paper. The die cut and my chick's eye are accented with ZVA Creative light blue pearls.

This chick die, plus MANY others, ZVA Creative Pearls, Tim Holtz Distress Inks and FlowerSoft products are all available at Creating Everlasting Memories EBay store.
You also don't want to miss our Creating Memories in Time blog for April, including Mary's sweet Easter project tutorial, more upcoming projects from all the DT Ladies, as well as BLOG CANDY that you can play along to win -- so click on the link above!!!

JustRite Friday Challenge 51: Act of Kindness

2011-03-30T22:02:00.001-07:00

For this JustRite Friday challenge, I chose a colorful glittery paper by Piggy Tales, so kept my card and gift tin embellishments to a minimum. For my International Coffee tin, to which I plan to add some sweet candies, I chose the "You're So Sweet" sentiment from JustRite's stamp set by that name. It is mounted on a Spellbinders' Fleur de Lis Accent die cut from Spellbinders' craft foil and merely accented with Stickles. I then added a handle by punching holes in my tin with my Crop-a-dile and attaching it with brads.
Every gift needs an accompanying card, so mine is a simple Thank You. Again letting my bright glittery paper take center stage, I used the same foil die cut as my tin, just switching to a Thank You So Much sentiment from the same stamp set, one of my FAVS from JustRite which I'll be using a LOT!!!
Thanks for coming by today -- I'm scrambling to get this posted (again) and then I'll try to visit some other challengers' posts tomorrow!

Papertrey Ink March 2011 Blog Hop: Embroidery Floss and CR84FN20 Color Challenge

2011-03-25T06:55:00.010-07:00

Papertrey Ink's Blog Hop challenge this month is to use embroidery floss in a fun and inventive way on
your project. I kept my spring project fairly CAS, but had fun creating a much-needed birthday card for my stash in the process.
I chose Lavender Moon CS, stamping Background Basics: Petal Power in VersaMark Ink on the right side and added Bitty Box Basics in Lavender Moon on the left. After punching small holes in the points of all my Beautiful Blooms II die-cut flower petals, I laced DMC Floss #3836 through the petals and added a floss star burst to the center. A tiny purple gem completes my flower. The stem and leaves are die cut with the rickrack border die and my Everyday Button Bits sentiment is stamped on a Spellbinders die and secured with embroidery floss.
Enjoy the hop -- I cannot wait to see what everyone else came up with for this fun challenge!
ETA: Due to a couple sweet suggestions from friends/commenters (thanks, Ladies!), I am also entering this card in the following fabulous weekly challenge: CR84FN20 Color Challenge!

Happy Birthday: Lifestyle Crafts Letterpress Style!

2011-03-23T13:23:00.002-07:00

While I had my QuicKutz/Lifestyle Crafts supplies out, I played with this border/edge plate from the Letterpress Wedding printing plates set and Hot Pink ink. I think I may have "accidentally" turned the plate upside down (it's the large solid strip/narrow strip plate), but I'm glad I did, as I love this edge! :-)
For my sentiment, I inked it on a separate piece of LP paper and then ran the inky brayer along the edges for added detail.
Lastly, I inked up the single daisy outline flower from the Everyday set, punched it out and pop dotted it over my sentiment strip. Adding a pearl to my flower center, plus one to the dot over the "i" in birthday, finished off my card.
Do you ever get a card totally finished and photographed (and maybe even mailed, as in this case?), only to wish you'd done something differently? Looking at my photo now, I'm wishing I'd have thought to also run my inky brayer along the circle flower cut-out -- maybe I'll remember next time?!
For a great selection of Lifestyle Crafts' Letterpress supplies, be sure to visit Creating Everlasting Memories, where you'll find these products, as well as pearls in many sizes/colors and decorative punches too! Thanks for stopping by and happy crafting!

Thank You Note: Lifestyle Crafts Letterpress Style

2011-03-21T16:35:00.002-07:00

Are you like me and never seem to have enough Thank You's? Since it's a rare cloudy/rainy day here in AZ, I thought this was the perfect day to play with my Lifestyle Crafts Letterpress system again!
After inking up the Everyday BG printing plate in black ink I decided to add a splash of hot pink to my black and white card. I inked the smaller thank you from the Wedding plate set for this card with Hot Pink ink, added 2 black pearls from Queen & Co. next to the sentiment, some punched detail and CS strips to keep it very simple!
For a great selection of Lifestyle Crafts' letterpress supplies, be sure to visit Creating Everlasting Memories, where you'll find the starter kit and all the necessary accessories (currently on SALE at 25% off) so you can start creating your own unique letterpress creations. There are also many colors of pearls from Queen & Co. and decorative punches for all your crafting needs, so be sure to check those out while you're there!

JustRite Friday Challenge 50: Spring or Birthday Gift or Envelope

2011-03-17T00:30:00.003-07:00

As I was awaiting my first Grand Nestabilities' arrival with plans to submit for JustRite's challenge, I happened to find this adorable Pebbles "Birdies" double-sided paper, which is solid green on the back. I decided I just had to make a Spring gift basket, card and lined envie! I had sooo much fun that now I'm up late trying to get this posted!
I made the gift box first and knew I wanted to use Spellbinders' Grand Labels Four, one of my fav shapes. My Labels Four die #3 was cut/embossed and then scored from each scallop indention to meet in the center for added interest on the front. The handle also has 3 scored lines, though it was nearly impossible to photograph that. You can click on the photos, then click again to enlarge them to see the detail. I then cut along the top two scores of my Labels Four, added a Making Memories flower grommet and tucked a Labels Four tag under the grommet on which I stamped JustRite's sentiment, "Rebirth of Spring" from Nature's Nested Sentiments. A little brown felt bird die cut from Spellbinders' Nested Birds sits atop my little tab closure which tucks into a strip of CS behind the grommet for closure.
For my card and matching envelope, I used Grand Labels Four #4 to nearly completely cover the front of my 5" square card. Topping it off is another Nature's Nested Sentiment on a Labels 4 die and a red felt bird sitting atop it. I scored my card front twice at the top also. For my matching square envie, I again cut the Grand Labels Four die shapes to decorate the top flap and to line my envelope!
I love using double-sided paper for projects like this, as it's a sure match and makes everything so much easier! Thanks so much for stopping in today & let me know if you think staying up late was worth it -- LOL!

Wedding/Anniversary Congratulations: Lifestyle Crafts Letterpress Style

2011-03-15T13:39:00.000-07:00

Still working with my new L Letterpress machine, I created this congratulatory card which I think is perfect for either wedding or anniversary needs. It would be especially nice for a 25th Wedding Anniversary celebration in this Silver ink or made using Gold ink for a 50th Anniversary!
For my card I actually used watercolor paper and then attached it to my BG card cut in silver CS, adding a tassel along the folded edge, a few pearls and rounded corners. So simple and very easy to duplicate if you desire to do these as wedding/anniversary celebratory invitations or Save the Date cards instead -- simply change the sentiment. With so many Letterpress ink colors available, you could certainly color coordinate your design to your own wedding colors or those chosen by your recipient for her celebration -- so many possibilities await with these printing plates/inks!
With spring and summer weddings on the horizon, you might want to hurry over to Creating Everlasting Memories and check out the many options available to you for just such upcoming events!

Joan's Gardens Weekly Challenge Sponsored by JustRite

2011-03-09T23:37:00.002-07:00

I thought I'd never get my card for this challenge at Joan's Gardens finished, as "life" kept getting in my way, but I'm finally posting and there are still a whole 4 1/2 hours or so remaining --YIKES -- talk about almost down to the wire! I wanted to use my JustRite Backyard Birds set as I've not used it previously and it is such a fun year-round set.

For my spring card, I chose this sweet little bird tending its eggs, combined with some spring flowers paper from K & Company's Margo line and JustRite's "Rebirth of Spring" sentiment from Nature Nested Sentiments and Verse, another favorite set! My sentiment was stamped on two lines on a Spellbinders' tag (retired Tags Five die) and a flower sprig from the Backyard Birds border was added before threading through a Martha Stewart ribbon. Copic markers were used to color my stamped images, which were stamped using Memento's Pear Tart and Danube Blue inks. All pieces were distressed with Tim Holtz Antique Linen or Tea Dye Distress Inks.

Thanks for your visit today!

Classic Thank You Note: Lifestyle Crafts Letterpress Style

2011-03-08T15:38:00.003-07:00

Lifestyle Crafts Letterpress System

All the designers at Creating Memories in Time are using the Lifestyle Crafts L Letterpress machine, inks and plates, which make such elegant, classy cards which truly look like you purchased them at a stationery store! I kept my first Thank You card simple, using Teal Green ink for both the graphic and sentiment and mounted it on matching teal CS, leaving just a narrow border. My sentiment is found in the set of Wedding (L-PP-010-WD) printing plates. I wanted a bold sentiment for this first simple card.
I just love the classy, elegant feel of the beautiful paper and this card in person!
The beauty of the Letterpress machine is that you can very easily create one or many of the same design (i.e.: party, shower or wedding invitations or thank-you's) in your desired color so quickly and easily! For a great selection of Lifestyle Crafts' letterpress supplies, be sure to visit Creating Everlasting Memories, where you'll find the starter kit (currently on SALE) and all accessories to start creating your own unique letterpress creations! Then -- have fun!!!

Some Bunny Loves You: QuicKutz Style

2011-03-07T14:24:00.004-07:00

This sweet little bunny with it's little "fuzzy" paws and that soft-as-bunny-fur bow is definitely ready to brighten someone's day!!! I've used QuicKutz dies for both my scalloped BG (Journaling Block REV-0226-D) and my bunny, stamped on a Nesting Tag (CC-SHAPE-6-023). The Studio G wooden stamp was inked with Memento Tuxdeo Black ink, colored/edged with Copics, mounted to DCWV DP and Bazzill card and has q-tip tips for paws.

Wouldn't he/she be just the cutest little surprise tucked into a child's lunchbox?!

Please check out Creating Everlasting Memories for great bargains on the following products: QuicKutz/Lifestyle Crafts items, ZVA Creative Pearls, as well as many other fabulous crafting supplies!

Hope you're having a wonderful, crafty day today wherever you are in this great big world of ours!!!

JustRite Friday Challenge 049 - Technique: Direct to Rubber

2011-02-28T12:52:00.002-07:00

Needing a masculine thank-you card, I decided on the Direct to Rubber inking method, one of the techniques for the current JustRite Friday Challenge. Using a Marvy marker, I inked my centered sentiment (created with JustRite's Myriad Pro 50 pt. Font) and the thank you border from JustRite's You're So Sweet stamp set and stamped both on white CS cut from a Spellbinders' circle die.
For a little "fun" I next cut a Spellbinders' Eyelet Circle in red CS and then cut it again with another circle die to remove the outer eyelet edge for a more "masculine" look!!! Then I cut an Inverted Scalloped Circle in green to back my red/white focal layers. A bit of distress inking, a zig zag embossed edge and brown ric-rac finish off my simple "guy" card.
I love "double-cutting" with my dies, as well as combing my JustRite stamp sets to find more ways to make my dies and stamps work together to create the look I'm going for -- more "bang for the buck", a must in today's economy! Thanks for stopping by today!!!
EDITED to add: This card also fits the "All About Boys" prerequisite for My Sheri Crafts challenge so I'm linking it to her weekly challenge also! ;-)
Papers: Basic Grey's Mellow DP; Papertrey Ink's Poppy Red CS; white CS
Stamps: JustRite's You're So Sweet (border) and Myriad Pro 50 pt. Font (center sentiment)
Ink: Marvy LePlume #18 Dark Brown marker; Tim Holtz Antique Linen Distress Ink
Spellbinders dies: Eyelet Circles S4-304 (Die #3); Standard Circles S4-116 (Dies #3 & #4); Inverted Scalloped Circles S4-194 (Die #5)
Embellishments: Martha Steward Embossed Zig Zag punch; brown ric-rac from stash

Papertrey Ink February 2011 Blog Hop: Scallops

2011-02-25T21:01:00.005-07:00

Papertrey Ink's blog hop challenge this month was to use scallops -- any type, so I've used several Spellbinders' dies and Bazzill scalloped paper along with Friends 'Til the End PTI DP - making this quick to try to get it posed in time!

Well, something weird happened with Blogger (thanks, Blogger) and my post photo had no thumbnail and when I came back to fix the problem, the collection for InLinkz closed -- Boo-Hoo!!! Oh well, it was a fun card to make even if I missed the Hop for the 2nd month in a row! Life's been getting in my way too often lately, so I'm going to have to get things better organized and break that pattern pronto!!! Thanks for popping in for a look anyway!!! ;-)

Celebrate Card: My Mind'e Eye Style

2011-02-24T19:40:00.000-07:00

My Mind's Eye Lush (Blue) DP

This is the first card I've made using the Lush line of designer paper in blue by My Mind's Eye -- it's totally "luscious"! :~) My 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" card uses three of the gorgeous patterned papers from this line, as well as a brad and velvet scalloped ribbon.
Cream CS from my stash is first covered with Blue Diamonds double-sided DP and then topped in the center with velvet Polka Dot DP. Two large Prima Flowers at the top left are embellished with a large My Mind's Eye "Lush" brad and sit atop my Celebrate sentiment.
Across the bottom I cut the reverse side of the Blue Damask DP with the scalloped QuicKutz/Lifestyle Crafts Journaling Die (#REV-0226-D), tucked it underneath cream lace from my stash, then topped with MME's velvet scalloped ribbon and finished at the right side with another Prima Flower. All DPs and flowers were antiqued with Tim Holtz Antique Linen Distress Ink.
I colored my clear flower-shaped stick pin (Making Memories) with Copic BG11, added beads and stuck it through my ribbon and flower. Finally, a pearl from my stash was threaded with embroidery floss for stamens and attached with a glue dot to complete my card.
Check out Creating Everlasting Memories for great bargains on the following products: My Mind's Eye; QuicKutz/Lifestyle Crafts; Tim Holtz, Prima Marketing, as well as many others!!! Hope you're having a wonderful, crafty day today wherever you are!!!

JustRite Friday Challenge 048: Sketch

2011-02-16T23:09:00.001-07:00

Having just received JustRite's Sympathy Nested Sentiments and Spellbinders' Cross Collection dies, I wanted to use them for this week's Sketch Challenge. I die cut the largest of the 4 crosses from Spellbinders' Dark Blue craft foil (LOVE all the new colors!) and mounted it to rectangles in Vintage Cream and Spring Rain CS and then to a Vintage Cream card with Enchanted Evening layer. All CS is from Papertrey Ink. My sentiment and Victorian Nested Frame are stamped in Memento's Danube Blue ink and my metal corners are the "left-overs" from the inside of the cross. Dainty vintage cream lace from Hobby Lobby runs under my focal image and the sentiment block, which is mounted on foam tape. These cards are difficult to make in a hurry (for me anyway) and necessary to have on hand, so I just love all the thoughtful sympathy sentiments in this JustRite set which make a difficult job easier.

Home is Where the Heart Is: QuicKutz Style

2011-02-15T20:36:00.003-07:00


QuicKutz House Die #0213

Just a fun little twist on a Valentine, or a housewarming or welcome home card that was tons of fun to create with this QuicKutz/Lifestyle Crafts House die. This die plus many more by QK (and FlowerSoft in several colors) are available at Creating Everlasting Memories at fabulous prices -- check it out!!!

Paper: Bazzill scrap CS and Cream CS from stash
Die: QuicKutz House #0213
Stamps: JustRite's Times New Roman 15-pt. Font; tree, sand, swirl from stash
Embellishments: Making Memories Ribbon; Sage FlowerSoft; heart sticker from stash
Tools: Stampin' Up Word Window punch

Papertrey Ink's Anniversary Celebration Day 3: Make-It Moday Challenge

2011-02-13T15:26:00.002-07:00

Go-To Sentiment Sympathy Card

I absolutely LOVE Papertrey Ink's Make It Monday Challenge announced during their 4th Anniversary Celebration, which is to create a Go-To Sentiment card. Click on the link above to be taken to the post where you can read all about it and view the video!

I love how my sympathy card turned out because I feel it's classy and elegant with subtle colors -- just what I feel these sad occasions warrant. All the sentiments and feelings I want to express to someone who's lost a loved one are right on the front. What a fabulous concept!!! I can add another fabulous PTI stamp inside or simply write my own heartfelt words.

Papertrey products:
Paper: Lavender Moon and Plum Pudding CS
Stamps: With Sympathy (Vine/Flower; If the future...; May you find peace...); Round & Round (With Sympathy); Autumn Abundance (Thinking of You) and With Sympathy Addition: Loss of Child (Know that I am here)
Ink: Lavender Moon, Plum Pudding and True Black

Other products:
Spellbinders' Pierceabilities; tassel from stash

Papertrey Ink's Anniversary Celebration Day 8: Think BIG Challenge

2011-02-12T17:25:00.000-07:00

I've used my biggest stamp and biggest sentiment in what I think to be the "biggest color" (Raspberry Fizz) for Papertrey Ink's Anniversary Day 8 Think BIG Challenge! What a fun challenge this is, showcasing the premier of Think Big Favorites, a very reasonably-priced new monthly mini set that contains two or three mega-sized versions of popular sentiments from previously released sets. Soon PTI will ask their customers (YES -- they DO do that & they LISTEN!) to vote on which sentiments we'd like to have "super-sized" for future mini sets -- I LOVE that!!! Nichole has several other mini sets that are fabulous if you're just getting started with a collection or want to add to what you already have -- tons of fun mixy-matchy shapes and sentiments for BIG creations at a small price!
My card is quite CAS with the largest flower from Friends 'Til the End stamped in Dark Chocolate on Raspberry Fizz CS, cut out by hand, mounted onto a Spellbinders' Classic Border Petite cut from Dark Chocolate Friends 'Til the End DP. I also stamped just the center of my flower again, cut it out, pop dottted it and added a brown gem from my stash to its center. Clear gems from my stash were Copic colored with RV14 to accent my dark chocolate border, as well as the "i" in my sentiment from Giga Guide Lines. That's it, BIG & simple!!! ;-)

Papertrey Ink's Anniversary Celebration Day 7: Tag w/Frame Challenge

2011-02-11T20:28:00.001-07:00

Nichole's challenge for Day 7 of her Papertrey Ink 4th Anniversary Celebration is to create a tag that incorporates a frame. Because I'm tired of the "traditional Valentine" colors, I decided to go CAS with my little Tag Sale #1 die cut from PTI's Aqua Mist Bitty Box Basics DP. My PTI Vintage Labels double-line frame is stamped in Aqua Mist ink on Vintage Cream CS and cut with Spellbinders' Labels One die. These stamps work so well with the dies. Inside my frame I've stamped the scrolly heart from Sweet Love and accented it with a single gem.
Topping my framed adornment is another small tag, cut with a retired Spellbinders' die, which incorporates my sentiment from Sweet Love (broken into 3 lines from it's original 1). Both it and the embellished tiny swirl atop are stamped in Ocean Tides ink. All my gems were originally clear ones from my stash, colored with Copic BG15 -- one of my FAV things to use my Copics for! Another is one of Nichole's ideas, as seen on my PTI silk ribbon, which was made by running the same Copic marker down the center of the ribbon -- LOVE that look and it's SOOO easy! If you're like me and can't draw a straight line, just "cheat" and use a ruler to guide you. Three different size gems along the left side point the way to my framed adornment.
Finally, all three tags were edged with PTI's Vintage Touch Tea Dye duo. I just LOVE this tag's simplicity and non-traditional colors! Thanks so much for your visit here today; I so appreciate you taking your time to stop by!

Papertrey Ink's Anniversary Celebration Day 6: Button Challenge

2011-02-10T21:15:00.002-07:00


Button Challenge

Nichole's challenge for Day 6 of her Papertrey Ink Anniversary celebration was to "use buttons in a creative and unique way", thus my little button girl was "born"! She proved challenging, but is made with Papertrey Spring Mix vintage buttons for her face, puffy sleeves, bodice and heart button sentiment accent. Smaller buttons from my stash were used for her eyes, arms/hands and legs/shoes. Her hair is made from scraps of Dark Chocolate and Raspberry Fizz felt cut with the Rick Rack Border die. She's mounted on a Mat Stack 1 die in Sweet Blush CS and a Raspberry Fizz card.

My sentiment is from one of my fav sets -- Heartfelt Basics and is stamped on Sweet Blush CS cut with a Spellbinder's ribbon tag threaded with Raspberry Fizz Swiss Dot Satin ribbon.

Hope she brings a smile to my recipient's face!!!

Papertrey Ink's Anniversary Celebration Day 5: Color Challenge #3

2011-02-09T23:52:00.000-07:00

Raspberry Fizz, Pure Poppy, Hawaiian Shores, Dark Chocolate, Kraft

It's 11:30 PM here and everyone else is asleep because they all have early days tomorrow, so this will have to be my final entry for Papertrey Ink's Day 5 Color Challenge. I really had fun with this color palette, wondering IF I could work in the Pure Poppy, but I managed to make it work, I think! Thanks for stopping by to see the three entries I managed to get made and posted today/tonight/this morning -- LOL!!!

My fingers will be tightly crossed in hopes of winning this FABULOUS prize (as I could REALLY use it)!!!

My PTI products are:
Paper: Raspberry Fizz, Pure Poppy, Hawaiian Shores, Dark Chocolate and Kraft CS
Stamps: Scattered Showers (Sentiment) and BG Basics: Petal Power (bottom edge)
Ink: Pure Poppy, VersaMark (plus a bit of Chai for edging)Dies: Beautiful Blooms II #1 Die Collection; Tag Sale 1 Die (flower Center); Rick Rack Border Die

Papertrey Ink's Anniversary Celebration Day 5: Color Challenge #2

2011-02-09T21:18:00.004-07:00

Pure Poppy, Spring Rain, Kraft, Vintage Cream

Another CAS creation for my second card for today's Papertrey Ink Color Challenge for their Anniversary Celebration. This time I chose this fun bicycle stamp and the color palette shown underneath my card.

When my DD saw the card, she said, "I love those colors"! A winner in her eyes!!! Of course, because Nichole and the fabulous PTI Designers are experts at picking the most fabulous shades and pairing them up perfectly -- if you're not familiar with this company, you are truly missing out!!!

My PTI products are:
Paper: Vintage Cream and Spring Rain CS
Stamps: Everyday Button Bits; Polka Dot Basics
Ink: Pure Poppy (plus a bit of Chamomile for my dots & edging)
Embellishments: Pure Poppy Buttons

Additional Products:
Spebllbiners' Standard Circle dies and Ribbon Tags Trio

Papertrey Ink's Anniversary Celebration Day 5: Color Challenge

2011-02-09T17:37:00.000-07:00

Ripe Avocado, Ocean Tides, Vintage Cream, Dk. Chocolate

For Papertrey Ink's Day 5 Anniversary Challenge I chose to use my favorite color palette (listed under photo), as well as the same basic design used on a card I made last year because I love the CAS look. This time I changed the leaf stamp, edge punch and sentiment and added the Dark Chocolate, as I was going for a more masculine approach -- do you think I succeeded? My original card can be found here.
My PTI products are:
Paper: Vintage Cream CS and Green Tea Leaves DP
Stamp: Turning a New Leaf and Everyday Classics
Ink: Ripe Avocado and Dark Chocolate (plus a bit of Chai on my right edge)
Embellishments: Ocean Tides Buttons
Additional Products:
Fiskars Upper Crest Punch and fiber from my stash

Bride and Groom: QuicKutz Style

2011-02-07T10:53:00.001-07:00

As I cut and paper pieced this Bride and Groom QuicKutz die set, it reminded me so much of playing paper dolls when I was little -- a fond memory!
For a shower or wedding card, this set would be so sweet for making your card in the bride's chosen colors! I also think these would be the perfect dies for all your wedding scrapbooking and even for shower decorations!!!

I simply used papers, flowers, ribbons and pearls from my stash to dress my bride and groom. I cut my bride's dress in a textured white CS and her veil from vellum. I cut a small slit to slip the veil over her hair and then added pearls to it, as well as to her dress at the neckline and a ribbon sash at her waist. Her bouquet consists of small roses and ribbon surrounded by a small doily circle cut from a larger doily.

The groom is dressed in his finest tuxedo and white shirt with "ribbon" tie and a boutonniere die cut from the set and Copic colored with R39 and YG95.

For this QuicKutz/Lifestyle Crafts die set #3-040 and numerous others at unbelievable prices, be sure to check out Creating Everlasting Memories today!!!

My Favorite Papertrey Ink Project from the Past Year

2011-02-05T07:06:00.003-07:00

NOTE: This originally posted on August 27, 2010, but is re-posted here today for the UNBELIEVABLY HUGE giveaway being sponsored by Nichole Heady at Papertrey Ink in celebration of her Fourth Anniversary this month. Be sure to go check it out by clicking on the above link. Good Luck!!!

Sheri's challenge this week: create a 'Missing You' project. I chose "It's Been Too Long" from Everyday Button Bits stamp set, adding a little swirly image from Vintage Labels above and below my sentiment and tiny Kaiser Craft chocolate pearls. Stamps are all from Papertrey Ink.
I just LOVE this paisley print in russet browns, peony pinks and spring greens from Basic Grey's Sultry paper pad. My sentiment frame is die cut with Spellbinders' Ribbon Tags Trio Two. For accent I then embossed the die again and hand cut the outermost edge before lacing my sheer brown ribbon through both. I cut a strip of pale pink paper from the pad, misted it with water and embossed it with Spellbinders' Paisley Impressabilities. My paisley print and brown papers were then both edge punched with Fiskars' Upper Crest punch.
Have a great day and I sincerely appreciate your taking time to come here!

Happy Birthday, GF

2011-02-05T06:17:00.000-07:00

Amidst all the goings-on at my house lately, I managed to hurt my back, so I'm not quite functioning as I'd hoped. Thanks to a dear friend's reminder, I did manage to get a project finished in time to celebrate another GF's birthday yesterday with the two of them! Many months ago I had made the four woven ribbon panels for this basket with the Birthday Girl in mind, as blue is her favorite color. I took the simple route and finished it with glittered handmade paper from my stash, using Spellbinders' Lacey Circles and a silver pearl. I then created a simple square matching card with Lacey Circles, Lacey Squares and a birthday greeting from JustRite's Baroque Nested Frames from the supplies I had out on my work space. Full directions/details for the basket panels, box and woven handle can be found on Becca Feekens' blog here. I also previously made this Easter basket for a little girl. Hope everyone is managing to stay warm and safe wherever you are!

JustRite Friday Challenge 047: Love is in the Air!

2011-02-02T17:06:00.000-07:00

Love is in the Air is the theme for the current JustRite Stampers' Challenge, so with Valentine's quickly approaching, I used a wonderful sentiment stamp from JustRite's Romantic Sentiments Set for my entry! "You Hold the Key to my Heart" is stamped in PTI's Raspberry Fizz ink on Spellbinders' Nested Heart die cut from PTI's Vintage Cream and embossed with Antique Linen. I've always LOVED this DP from Basic Grey's Bittersweet line, so paired it here with PTI's Raspberry Fizz CS and metallic Vellum punched with Martha Stewart's sweet Doily Hearts border punch. My key is cut from Spellbinders' Timeless Heritage set in gold foil and accented with a heart bead and seed beads. Lastly, I added cream lace and sequin trim to finish off this Love card!

Papertrey Ink January 2011 Blog Hop "Wannabe" Sweet Love Valentine

2011-01-26T16:44:00.000-07:00

Had I had a chance to participate yesterday this would have been my Papertrey Ink card for their January Blog Hop, but family came first and my card is "a day late and a dollar short", as my sweet Mother used to say -- Sigh!!! I really enjoyed pulling out this little used PTI Sweet Love set and inking it up. You can't go wrong with Raspberry Fizz and black, so I simply stamped the swirly BG and sentiment in True Black ink, added 2 heart-shaped Amuse twinkles colored with Copic RV19 to a vellum Mat Stack 1 die cut. Then my centerpiece was added to a silver doily from my stash and mounted front & center over black velvet ribbon!