Designing with Deidre

Speed Scrap

2012-01-09T09:02:00.004-05:00

I used Just So Scrappy's kit Christmas Cookies which can be found here This is our third annual cookie exchange. So much fun! Directions for the speed scrap can be found here

New Year Speed Scrap

2012-01-01T22:15:00.003-05:00

I actually completed the My Memories speed scrap on time! Maybe I can keep up with it every Sunday. I can dream right? I used Albums to Remember Holiday Spice to create this page. I changed the pictures to sepia in the My Memories program since the bright colors were really competing with the glitzy background papers. The speed scrap directions can be found here

Fantastic Friday Freebie

2011-12-16T08:43:00.004-05:00

http://www.mymemories.com/store/share_the_memories_kit_2

This is a PNG file and can be used with many scrapbooking programs. If you don't have a digital scrapping program go here use code STMMMS3773 to get $10 off Version 3 that was just recently released. It is a really easy and fun way to preserve those precious memories!

Sunday Speed Scrap....just a few days late...and a freebie!

2011-12-07T12:38:00.003-05:00

I used Once Upon a Time Pack 2 by Connie Prince. If you would like to give the My Memories speed scrap a try you can find last Sunday's scrap here This is one of my favorite photos of our princess. She was having so much fun jumping off the hay bales at a local farm.

Just for something fun, I have a freebie for you. It is a png file so you can use it with many digital scrapping programs. If you make something with this freebie please leave me a comment with a link to your project....I would love to see it!

http://www.mymemories.com/store/share_the_memories_kit_1

New Blog Background

2011-11-30T16:01:00.002-05:00

I wanted to give credit to the wonderful designer that made the gorgeous elements for my blog background. I used Christmas Comes Softly by Mandy King. You can find more of her designs here
I also used My Memories software to create the background and the blog banner. You need this software! New version 3 is here and the code on the right hand side of my blog will get you a $10 discount and also a $10 credit to spend in the store to purchase more kits

Sunday Speed Scrap

2011-11-27T23:14:00.003-05:00

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I LOVE Sundays on the My Memories Facebook page because there is a speed scrap. Jessica gives a new set of directions every few minutes and by the end you have a completed page. I used Mye De Leon's Black Friday Grab bag to create this page. It is busier than I normally do but I like how it turned out. It is so fun to see how differently everyone interrupts the directions and the end results.

It is funny to scrap about rolls but this recipe has been in my mother-in-law's family for many generations. My daughter insisted on staying home this year to make these rolls(even though we had been invited to join another family to celebrate). Even at 5, she realizes that traditions are important for weaving your family together. That is pretty awesome!

My Little Thanksgiving Turkey

2011-11-22T22:21:00.003-05:00

My mom got me a Brother SE400 embroidery machine for my birthday this year. It sat in the box forever because I was afraid to get it out and use it. It was so much fancier than my old basic sewing machine. I wish that I hadn't been so scared to get that baby out and use it. Just look what it can do! I downloaded the turkey pattern from SWAK embroidery This particular design was made by Applique For Kids. They have such adorable patterns and a lot of them are more than just a stitched design. I just couldn't resist the ribbon tail feathers of this turkey! So adorable! I took a plain brown t-shirt from Target and made it into a dress and then added the embroidery. So festive for Thanksgiving. I am tempted to make myself one to match!

My Memories Digital Scrapbooking

2011-11-04T13:49:00.005-04:00

Look at this gorgeous page and Paige :)! All I had to do was put my picture on the page and send it back a layer. The beautiful page was already completely done for me! I did add the bow on the frame and the ribbon under the word Princess. I had this Quick Page in mind before Halloween because I knew that Paige's Rapunzel costume was purple and it would match so well with the embellishments on the page. With all those beautiful flowers and her peeking out of the frame it really reminds me of Rapunzel! The best part was that it took seconds to do! I am doing to do more traditional Halloween pages too but I couldn't wait to share this with you(especially since it has been awhile since I posted...sigh!)

Are you interested in trying digital scrapbooking? Well, you are in luck because My Memories has given me a code to share with you for $10 off the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store to purchase downloads for your new software. Go to the My Memories website and enter the code STMMMS37730

Go and check out their website and get ready for a give away next week after I post my Halloween pages. You can get a copy of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software for free!

MDS and Easy Canvas Prints

2011-10-11T10:11:00.005-04:00

Awhile back I was contacted by Brendan from Easy Canvas Prints to review their canvas products. I was offered an 8 and 1/2 inch by 11 inch canvas. I decided that this would be the perfect opportunity to use My Digital Studio and make a memory of the kids' first day of school this year. This is the first year that our little princess was in "real" school, so it was definitely something that I wanted to remember.

After I completed the layout in MDS, I went to the website and uploaded the picture. Their website is very user friendly and it took just a few minutes. I chose to have the edges done in a solid blue color to coordinate with the blue on the layout. I could have also just had the picture wrap around the wooden frame for the edges. I decided to go with the 11 x 11 layout so that it would be close to the original 12 x 12 size that I created the layout in. The first attempt had a few of my elements cut off, but customer service was extremely helpful and worked with me to get it adjusted. I was emailed the proof again and I was able to make a few adjustments and the second canvas was exactly what I wanted it to be! It will be such a great keepsake to have as they kids go through their school years. I bet their grandmas would also like a copy of this canvas. I will have to check into that for Christmas.

I am very pleased with how my canvas turned out and I will definitely try another canvas! I need to get my family's picture taken soon and I would love to have a large size canvas to display on my wall. I will be heading back to Easy Canvas and you should too!

Spray Chalk Paint

2011-07-30T22:23:00.003-04:00

I found the recipe for homemade spray chalk at Infarrantly Creative. It is sooo easy to make! The hardest part was getting the princess to be patient for me to mix it up. One box of corn starch made 6 small bottles of the spray. It apparently makes really good body paint too ;)

Chance to win $250 Amazon Gift card

2011-07-30T11:00:00.001-04:00

Bargain Babe is having a contest to give away a $250 Amazon gift card. Find the details
here There are several ways to enter.

Easter Egg Craft

2011-04-15T06:58:00.002-04:00

My grandma had an Easter Egg made out of string many years ago when I was young. I was feeling a little nostalgic and I thought I would try to make one of my own. I soaked crochet yarn in a plastic bag with starch for a couple of days and then wrapped a large balloon. Let it dry and then pop the balloon. Decorate it with artificial flowers. I was a little disappointed that it wasn't as sturdy as I thought grandma's was. Maybe I should try one with a good ol' glue and water mix and see if that makes a difference.

Another Dollar Store Redo

2011-02-12T13:49:00.006-05:00

I can not take any credit for coming up with this idea. I saw it on www.tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com She has amazing decorating ideas and you should run over and check out her blog!

I used My Digital Studio to make the background paper because I didn't have any Valentine's paper on hand. It is one of the Love Letter designs. That is something that is soooo nice about My Digital Studio! I am going to print out Amore on My Digital Studio and add it to the blank space at the bottom.

The frame is another one from the Dollar Store. If you dig you can find some really nice frames.
I just got a bag of the decorative gems and used E600 glue to adhere the gems to the glass in the frame.

Valentine's Day Frame

2011-02-04T16:46:00.003-05:00

I got this mirror today at our Dollar Store. It was super shiny white. I sanded all of the edges that were raised and then I took watered down black acrylic paint and painted where the raised bumps are on the frame. I wiped it off with a dry paper towel. I finally finished a Love banner that I started last year, so as soon as I get it hung I will take a picture of my whole display.

Accessories: Love Impressions Rub Ons from the Occasions Mini Catalog, Basic Rhinestone Jewels and Pretty in Pink 3/8" Taffeta Ribbon.

Happy Birthday, Gram

2011-01-25T16:41:00.003-05:00

Oh my goodness, I am so embarrassed about how long it has been since my last post! I have been exploring some other crafting mediums and I have totally neglected my stamping! I am going to get better though. It is Sale-a-bration time so I am going to be getting lots of new goodies to play with...the hubby just doesn't know it yet :)

My grandma's birthday is today. When I called her to wish her a Happy Birthday she said she wasn't having birthdays anymore. I told her having a birthday is much better than not having one even if it means that you are another year older. She said she supposed that was true!

Paper: Basic Black, Crumb Cake, and Brushed Gold
Stamp Set: Vintage Labels (retired)
Ink: Crumb Cake and Basic Black
Accessories: Basic Pearl Jewels (Love them!), Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder, eyelet border punch, Matchbox Stampin' Up! Bigz die

Together Forever

2010-07-11T08:00:00.002-04:00

Stamp Set: Together Forever(retired)
Paper: Shimmer White, Early Espresso and Crumb Cake
Ink: Early Espresso and Crumb Cake
Accessories: Blender pen, Fancy Flower Extra Large punch, Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, corner rounder, pearls from pretties kit(retired)

Challenge: Create With Connie and Mary CCMC 106

Happy Birthday, Phil!

2010-07-10T15:02:00.004-04:00

This birthday card is for my husband's cousin. He is celebrating his 50th birthday today. He was not suppose to make it to 50 because he is suffering from a degenerative nerve disorder, so this birthday is really one to celebrate! His wife has planned all sorts of special surprises for him. I figured I would stretch out the celebration and send his card a little late. Ha! I used the Mojo Monday sketch from June 28.

Stamps: Artifacts(retired)
Paper: Basic Black, Crumb Cake, Early Espresso and Naturals Ivory
Ink: Early Espresso and Crumb Cake
Accessories: Log Cabin Smooch Spritz, Gold Glow Smooch Spritz, star brad, circle scissors plus and glass mat, Circles #2 sizzix die and Square Lattice embossing folder

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-04T08:00:00.001-04:00

Artwork © 1990-2010 Stampin' Up!

I create this card with the Mojo Monday sketch from last week. I used My Digital Studio to make the card. I just didn't have time to get down to my craft room. It is such a disaster from pulling out all of the retiring items, that I don't think I could find room to stamp anyway!

Have a safe and happy 4th! Thanks to all of you that serve this country to keep it free!

Challenge: Create With Connie and Mary

Tryin' to keep it Simple

2010-07-03T12:31:00.004-04:00

For some reason simple cards are really hard for me. I like to fill up all the space with something! My friend, Liz, came over the other afternoon to give stamping a try. I didn't want to overwhelm her with too much so I tried to make a simple card that she could copy easily. This is the card we did. I love that she took the basics and completely changed it around. I will ask her if she is ok with me posting her card as well for comparison.

Stamps: Sweet Scoops (Summer Mini)
Paper: Pink Pirouette and Whisper White
Ink: Crumb Cake and Pink Pirouette
Accessories: Brayer, sponge. Scallop Circle punch, striped grosgrain ribbon(retired) and Square Lattice Embossing Folder

Challenge Twist

2010-06-26T08:00:00.001-04:00

My son needed a birthday card for a friend whose party was last night. I really liked the sketch from Thurs. and I decided to switch it up to make it a little more masculine. Sorry the scan is a little crooked....it always seems to be that way when I have dimensionals on the card.

The Starring You stamp set will be retiring, so if you like this set contact your demo right away!

Stamps: Starring You
Paper: Riding Hood Red, Baja Breeze, Old Olive and Whisper White
Ink: Riding Hood Red and Versamark
Accessories: Sewing machine, Stampin' Dimensionals, Old Olive eyelets (retired), large star punch

Tart & Tangy challenge card CCMC104

2010-06-25T08:00:00.002-04:00

I had so much fun with the challenge from last week on Create With Connie and Mary that I decided to play along this week as well.

Stamps: Tart & Tangy
Paper: Whisper White, Real Red, and Old Olive
Accessories: Striped grosgrain ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals, scallop edge punch, scallop circle punch, 1-3/8" circle punch, white gel pen and paper piercing tool.

Sneak Peek

2010-06-24T15:47:00.006-04:00

Stamp set: Because I Care (level 1 hostess set)
Paper: Whisper White, Pear Pizazz, and Concord Crush
Accessories: Pear Pizazz and Concord Crush Stampin' Write markers, blender pen, Square Lattice Embossing Folder and Fairy Tale ribbon (retired)

To color in the flowers I simply used my blender pen to pull the color from the edges of the flowers to the center. Super easy!

Autumn Days Father's Day Card

2010-06-22T12:28:00.006-04:00

Happy Father's Day to my wonderful hubby! He coaches my son's soccer team and lets his daughter paint his toe nails....now that is a real dad! For always putting your family and kids first, I am extremely grateful. I know I am a very lucky lady!

Stamps: Autumn Days and So Very (retired)
Ink: Bashful Blue, Marina Mist, Creamy Caramel, Close to Cocoa, Early Espresso
Paper: Whisper White, Early Espresso and Marina Mist
Accessories: brayer, white gel pen, hemp twine, Curly label punch and Stampin' dimensionals

I am also submitting this card for the Create with Connie and Mary Thursday challenge. I have never done a challenge with them and I am excited to play along!

Pony Party Birthday Card

2010-06-13T21:28:00.004-04:00

It has been so long since I have had an occasion to stamp for! This is my latest creation for a third birthday card. I was trying a few new techniques that didn't work out the best, but I didn't think the recipient would care!

Stamps: Pony Party
Paper: Whisper White and Blushing Bride(new In Color), vellum
Ink: Bashful Blue, Marina Mist(new core color), Creamy Caramel, Old Olive, Daffodil Delight marker, Blushing Bride marker, Chocolate Chip marker
Accessories: Brayer, Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz, Dazzling Diamonds glitter, clear embossing powder, rhinestone brad (the jewel on the party hat is the center from a rhinestone brad), scallop edge border punch

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T08:18:00.004-04:00

Happy Mother's Day, Mom! Thank you for raising me in a loving and supportive way that showed me how to raise my own little ones. I love you!

Stamp Sets: Wedding Sweet, Messages For Mom (from the Occasions Mini Catalog that ended 4/30/10), Fine Flourish (also from the Occasions Mini Catalog)
Card stock: Very Vanilla, Pale Plum, Perfect Plum, Barely Banana, Apricot Appeal, Sage Shadow and Creamy Caramel
Ink: Perfect Plum and Creamy Caramel
Accessories: Scallop Circle punch, Extra Large Fancy Flower punch (118073), 5-Flower Petal punch, Round Tab punch, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Circle Fire Rhinestone Brads and a shadow box frame.

Enjoy Every Moment Thank You

2010-05-03T21:39:00.004-04:00

Stamps: Enjoy Every Moment
Paper: Green Galore and Whisper White
Ink: Melon Mambo and Green Galore
Accessories: Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder(#117335), 1-3/8" circle punch, 5-petal flower punch, Large Fancy Flower Punch(#118073), stamping sponges

The Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder and the Large Fancy Flower Punch are carryover items from the Occasions Mini Catalog.

Green Galore will be retiring, so if you like this color combo contact your Stampin' Up! demo and place your order.

Happy Birthday, Julie!

2010-04-19T12:40:00.007-04:00

My niece, Julie, just had her 17th birthday. Somehow I managed to be late with her card. You would think that since I sell Stampin' Up! that I could get cards out on time, but that is not the case. Plus, I seem to be lacking some stamping mojo for some reason. I used two of the colors that will be retiring with the new catalog in July

Stamp Sets: Doodle This(retired), Itty Bitty Backgrounds, Vintage Labels(sale-a-bration)
Ink: Pale Plum and Mellow Moss
card stock: Mellow Moss, Pale Plum and Whisper White
Accessories: Elegant Trio stencils, Bigz Curly Label die, Curly Label punch, scallop trim border punch and craft ribbon

Happy Birthday, Gram

2010-03-13T13:36:00.004-05:00

Stamps: Charming Item #116519 - still available from the Holiday Mini Catalog
Paper: Very Vanilla, Always Artichoke, Bordering on Blue, Le Jardin Designer Series Paper(retired)
Ink: Always Artichoke
Accessories: Scallop Edge punch, Scallop Punch, Vanilla grosgrain ribbon, So Saffron Stampin' Write marker, Always Artichoke Stampin' Write marker

Happy Birthday, Molly!

2010-02-18T16:23:00.002-05:00

I have had this image on my computer since January. I just haven't found time to get it uploaded to my blog. I have been trying to catch up on a few stamping projects that I hope to show on here soon!

Scallop Square Die Rag Purse

2010-02-02T13:17:00.003-05:00

I made this rag purse for Paige to carry...even though I really wanted to make myself one first! Her projects always get done second, so this time hers is first.

I followed the directions by ChicnScratch

I purchased the fabric from Wal-Mart when we went back to Iowa for Christmas. Our new Super Wal-Mart no longer carries fabric. I don't know what they were thinking! There is a Hancock and Joanne's fairly close to me, but it was so nice to pick up everything I needed plus my craft supplies.

Happy Birthday, Leah!

2010-02-01T15:44:00.003-05:00

Oh my goodness am I behind on posting! I have lots of pictures of cards and projects waiting on my hard drive to get posted to my blog.

This card was for our little neighbor, Leah, who turned one in January.

Paper: Pretty in Pink, Chocolate Chip, Real Red, Rebecca Designer Series Paper(retired) and Whisper White
Accessories: Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder, Paper crimper, Swirls Embossing Folder(Cuttlebug), Cupcake and Ice Cream Die(Sizzix), Pretty In Pink Striped Grosgrain ribbon, Scallop Border Punch and Crystal Effects

Kind and Caring Thoughts

2010-01-22T15:05:00.004-05:00

A very dear neighbor recently had surgery. The other ladies and I got a dinner together for her and her family. This is her get well card.

Stamps: Kind and Caring Thoughts(hostess)
Paper: Patterns Pack Designer Series Paper(hostess, retired), Regal Rose, Certainly Celery, Very Vanilla
Ink: Certainly Celery and Regal Rose
Accessories: Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder, Stampin' Up! Perfect Details Texturz Plate, Eyelet Border punch, Old Olive Stampin' Write Marker and Beautiful Wings Embosslit die

Happy Birthday, Teddy!

2010-01-15T15:20:00.004-05:00

My daughter attends Toddlin' Time which is a playgroup/craft class. The mascot for Toddlin' Time is Teddy. Teddy had a birthday this Thurs. and my daughter decided that Teddy needed a card for his birthday. She helped pick out the colors and of course she wanted to use the Stampin' Up! Bear on the front. She helped run everything through the Big Shot for me...she was quite a big help!

Stamp Set: Sock Monkey
Paper: Whisper White, Real Red, Creamy Caramel and Basic Black
Ink: Basic Black and Creamy Caramel
Accessories: Top Note Die, Stampin' Up! Bear, Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder, Real Red Stampin' Write Marker, Basic Black Journaling pen, stamping sponges

Vintage Vogue

2010-01-11T12:55:00.003-05:00

Time to get back to stampin'! This stamp set is from the new Occasions Mini Catalog.

Stamp Sets: Vintage Vogue
Paper: Very Vanilla, Perfect Plum, Certainly Celery
Ink: Perfect Plum and Certainly Celery
Accessories: Filigree Brads, Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Folder, Eyelet Border punch, Celery ribbon(retired)

Let it Snow!

2009-12-20T22:20:00.004-05:00

We were some of the lucky ones to get hit by the East Coast snow storm. It pretty much shut our area down. They have even cancelled school for tomorrow even though most of the main roads are pretty clear. The kids are happy about that!

MDS scrapbook page

2009-12-05T21:49:00.001-05:00

Welcome Baby B!

2009-11-17T21:51:00.006-05:00

My cousin, Blake, and his wife, Sidney, just had their first baby. A beautiful baby girl. I made this card to send with her gift. I wanted it to be really frilly and girly.

Stamps: Lovely Letters Alphabet and Baroque Motifs
Paper: Pretty In Pink and Whisper White
Ink: Pretty in Pink and Craft White
Accessories: Perfect Details Texturz plate, Eyelet Border Punch, Curly Label punch, Flirty Ribbon (retired), White halfback pearl from the Pretties kit, stamping sponges and dimensionals

Another Crazy for Cupcakes Birthday Card

2009-11-16T15:46:00.004-05:00

One of my awesome neighbors recently had a birthday and this was the card I made for her. I really seem to be stuck on pink and brown for this set. I know that Sarah loves those colors though, so it seemed fitting to use them on her card.
Stamps: Crazy for Cupcakes
Ink: Basic Black, Close to Cocoa, Pretty in Pink (I really miss Pink Pirouette!), Barely Banana
Paper: Rebecca Designer Series Paper(retired), Whisper White, Sahara Sand, Pretty in Pink and Close to Cocoa
Accessories: Flirty ribbon(retired), Chunky Sprinkles glitter, Scallop Edge punch, color spritzer tool, dimensionals

Snow Buddies

2009-11-13T20:18:00.005-05:00

Stamps: Snow Buddies(Level 2 Hostess set-Mini Catalog)
Paper -Brushed Silver, Whisper White, Bordering Blue, and Basic Black
Ink: Basic Black, Silver Encore Pad, Bordering Blue, Dusty Durango, Versamark pad,
Accessories: Aqua Painter, Silver Embossing powder, White Embossing powder, Dazzling Diamonds glitter, Cropadile and Chunky Sprinkles glitter

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T14:33:00.005-04:00

I think I have shared this craft before, but you would have to search the archives of the blog to find it. I made three of these mason jar votive holders for my neighbors for Halloween. We are getting together for pizza before trick-or-treating. I will share pictures of the crazy festivities later.

Happy Anniversary Honey!

2009-10-30T00:12:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow my husband and I will celebrate our 16th anniversary. I made this card on My Digital Studio to email him.

What have I been booing?

2009-10-28T16:02:00.006-04:00

Our neighborhood is Booing each other. You leave a package for 2 of your neighbors after dark, ring the doorbell and run off before they catch you. These are a few of the items that I am putting in my bags(and the bag). I also bought these really cute skeletons at a dollar store and some Halloween napkins.

The Boo Banner is made out of felt using the Stampin' Up! Pennant die and the Serif Essentials alphabet. I hand stitched the letters on and added some buttons and ribbon.

The bag is a white canvas bag. I used the Serif Essentials alphabet and also a Sizzix pumpkin and ghost die. Hand stitched everything and then used a fabric glue to attach it to the bag.

The pin is made with the Autumn Harvest stamp set. I used black Stazon ink for the pumpkin. Using a blender pen I used Pumpkin Pie and Really Rust Classic ink to color it in. The stem is Old Olive. I used the Bitty Backgrounds and stamped it in Creamy Caramel. I also sponged the edges with Creamy Caramel ink. Added a button tied with hemp and hot glued it to a Pumpkin Pie grosgrain ribbon.

Mojo Monday.....on Monday!

2009-10-19T19:58:00.003-04:00

I actually got a sketch done on the day that is suppose to be done! Woohoo!

Stamps: Dasher and Lots of Thoughts (retired hostess)
Paper: Whisper White, Creamy Caramel, and Real White
Ink: Creamy Caramel
Accessories: Metal Rimmed Tag, craft ribbon, Real Red Stampin' Write markers and Petals a Plenty embossing folder (isn't it gorgeous?)

MDS Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-17T16:27:00.003-04:00

New downloads are already available for My Digital Studio! I just did this card in about 5 minutes. I used the Pumpkin Patch and Thoughts & Prayers downloads. To make the moon I used the circle punch twice. One circle I made Barely Banana and the other I made in Whisper White. I just moved the Whisper White circle punch shape over the Barely Banana one until I got the crescent shape that I wanted. Clear as mud? :)

Eat, Drink and Be Scary

2009-10-16T09:23:00.002-04:00

I am doing a one on one swap with a friend in New York (hi Gala!) and we decided to use a Mojo Monday Sketch and the In Colors to do our swap this month.

Stamp Set: Eat, Drink and Be Scary
Paper: Basic Black, Whisper White, Rich Razzleberry and Dusty Durango, Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper
Ink: Basic Black
Accessories: Rich Razzleberry and Dusty Durango Stampin' Write markers, Black grosgrain ribbon, 1-3/4" circle punch

My Digital Studio Movie!

2009-10-14T20:59:00.006-04:00

You have to get this program! There is so much that you can do! I know that I have only scratched the surface of what I can make with this program.

Fall Poppin' Pastels

2009-10-13T14:39:00.004-04:00

I brushed off an old technique the other day to do a quick fall card.

Stamp sets: Itty Bitty Backgrounds and Upsy Daisy
Paper: Always Artichoke, More Mustard and Whisper White
Ink: Always Artichoke Classic Ink and Versamark
Accessories: Paper piercing tool and mat, Stampin' Pastels

Mission Accomplished!

2009-10-08T15:54:00.003-04:00

Whew! A new background and a header to match! I LOVE My Digital Studio!! Maybe I will stop making cards and just change my blog a lot....just kidding!

Under construction

2009-10-08T13:02:00.002-04:00

I am trying to figure out how to upload a design that I did in My Digital Studio to the background on my blog. I apologize for the rather blah appearance right now. I hope to get this all figured by the end of the day!

My First Digital Studio Card!

2009-10-07T10:01:00.005-04:00

This program is so much fun! I think I am going to be spending a lot of time on the computer. My poor boys are not going to happy that mom is taking over one of the laptops! I see a few mistakes that I made on this card but I don't think it is a bad first attempt.

Lots of Bots Birthday

2009-09-30T09:53:00.005-04:00

Our new neighborhood is wonderful because we have so many children living here. Another little neighbor boy turned 3 this past weekend and this was the card I made for him.
Stamps: Lots of Bots
Paper: Whisper White, Tempting Turquoise, Summer Sun, Brushed Silver
Ink: Basic Black
Accessories: grommets

Happy 1st Birthday

2009-09-27T18:52:00.006-04:00

One of the neighborhood babies had his first birthday this past week. His mom had a little pizza party for him. This is the card that I made to go with his gift.

Most of the items used on this card are retired, but I liked the color combination for a little boy's birthday card.

Paper: Bali Breeze DSP(retired), Whisper White card stock, Tempting Turquoise card stock, Old Olive card stock, Pumpkin Pie card stock and Purely Pomegranate(retired)

Ink: Tempting Turquoise

Accessories: Whimsy wheel with white craft ink cartridge, Simon On Board Chipboard(retired), large star punch, 1-1/4 " circle punch, Kiwi Kiss striped grosgrain ribbon(retired)

Mojo Monday...I mean Wednesday!

2009-09-23T13:12:00.004-04:00

If you ever get stampers block you should definitely check out this site
Every Monday they provide a new sketch for inspiration. I am sure this isn't a new site to some of you but I just discovered it and I am hoping to play along each week.

Stamp Set: Eastern Blooms
Ink: Sahara Sand Classic
Paper: Whisper White, Pretty in Pink, Basic Black and Sahara Sand
Accessories: Pretty in Pink Stampin' Write marker, dimensionals, black grosgrain ribbon and 1- 1/4" circle punch

Wings of Friendship Birthday card

2009-09-16T08:56:00.003-04:00

I made this card for my step mom's birthday earlier this month, but I just never got the chance to post it.

Stamp Set: Wings of Friendship(hostess)
Ink: Rose Red, Always Artichoke, and Bashful Blue Classic Stampin' pads
Paper: Whisper White, Rose Red and Always Artichoke
Accessories: Vanilla Hodgepodge Hardware, dimensionals

To make the "ribbon" behind the vanilla hodgepodge piece I used a bone folder and ran it along the backside of the paper several times(like you are making curls at the end of ribbon on a package) Flip the paper and do the same on the other side. You really want to break down the paper fibers. You should be able to pull the paper apart. You should get 2 pieces of "ribbon". It looks like suede

In honor of the first second day of school

2009-09-09T08:59:00.004-04:00

In honor of the second day of school I present my chalkboard technique card
Stamp set: Razzle Dazzle
Paper: Whisper White, Summer Sun and Basic Black
Ink: Craft White and Summer Sun Classic
Accessories: Stampin' Pastels, Eyelet border punch, black grosgrain ribbon, rhinestone brad

Off to school they go

2009-09-08T10:02:00.004-04:00

Today my oldest baby started high school. How on earth is that even possible? I think this day hit me harder than his first day of kindergarten!

I am hoping that both boys have a good day navigating new schools. I am also hoping that a few familiar faces from the neighborhood will be in some of their classes to make the day go a little easier. I know that school is never fun(at least they would never admit that it is), but I hope that they will get back into the routine and have a great year! Now I am off to play with the little one who is very bored without her brothers!

Happy Birthday Leslie

2009-09-02T15:05:00.005-04:00

My step-sister-in-law is having a birthday today. I am hoping that this card made it to her. I know I stamped the card, put it in an envelope and put a stamp on it. I am just not 100% sure that it made it to the mailbox! I guess I will have to send her the link if she didn't get it to prove that I didn't forget about her! Have you ever done anything like that? How embarrassing!

Stamp Set: Crazy For Cupcakes
Ink: Chocolate Chip Classic, Close to Cocoa Classic, Rose Red Classic, Rose Romance Classic
Paper: Naturals Ivory, Close to Cocoa, Chocolate Chip, Rose Red Designer Series(Hostess, retired) and Rose Red
Accessories: Blender pen, Scallop Edge punch and Chunky Sprinkles Glitter

Happy Birthday Silena!

2009-08-31T11:49:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow is my friend Silena's birthday. I mailed her card a little early so I am hoping it is already there and it is safe to post! I have 3 birthdays in the first two days of Sept to stamp for, so I will be posting those in the next few days.

Stamp set: Party Hearty
Paper: Eggplant Envy, So Saffron and Whisper White
Ink: Eggplant Envy and So Saffron
Accessories: 1/2" circle punch,1-3/4" circle punch, Round Tab punch and Very Vanilla 1/4" grosgrain ribbon

Kind & Caring Thoughts Birthday card

2009-08-26T10:49:00.005-04:00

I got to stamp yesterday! I was still walking around boxes and moving piles to find the space to stamp...but I did it! If I waited until my craft room was all settled it would probably be another 2 years before my stamps saw any ink! My friend, Kim, is having a birthday next Monday so this is for her.

Stamp sets: Kind & Caring Thoughts(hostess) and Itty Bitty Backgrounds
Paper: Sahara Sand, Dusty Durango and Whisper White
Ink: Dusty Durango, Sahara Sand, White Craft Ink
Accessories: White embossing powder, white organdy ribbon(retired), Antique Brass Hodgepodge Hardware(retired), Cutter Kit, stamping sponges, heat tool

A friend in need

2009-08-18T14:03:00.002-04:00

I have a friend from high school, Tracy. He and his family have really been on my heart today because their oldest son, Noah, was diagnosed with Batten's Disease. They just got test results today that one of their young daughters may also have the same disease. It is fatal and there is no cure. I would like to get their website out there for as many people to see as possible. If you have a blog could you please consider mentioning his website to get the word out? It is www.noahshope.com Thanks for your help! I am sure they would appreciate any prayers and positive thoughts that you could send their way as well!

Finally a new post!

2009-08-01T10:05:00.003-04:00

Sorry to those of you who have been checking in for a new post. Moving has really put me behind! My craft room is still mostly in boxes, but I did get to do a project for Paige's room that I would like to share. It is from the Decor Elements line that Stampin' Up!® carries. It is such an easy way to change the look of a room without a lot of effort.

Autumn Days Father's Day Card

2009-06-19T18:55:00.003-04:00

The packers are coming on Monday, I have a million things to do but I had to get a card done for my hubby for Father's Day. This stamp set will be appearing in the new Stampin' Up!® catalog that is debuting on July 1st.

Stamp sets: Autumn Days and Collage Alphabet(retired)

Paper: Naturals Ivory, Creamy Caramel, Kiwi Kiss, Baja Breeze and Blue Bayou(retired)

Ink: Creamy Caramel and Soft Suede Classic Stampin' pad

Accessories: paper snips, metal rim tag, Very Vanilla grosgrain ribbon and sponges

I felt that the Very Vanilla ribbon was too bright for this card, so I sponged some Creamy Caramel ink on it to "dirty it up" and make it fit the card a little better.

Razzle Dazzle

2009-06-09T18:00:00.002-04:00

Stamp set: Razzle Dazzle

Ink: Rich Razzleberry and Versamark

Paper: Rich Razzleberry, Crushed Curry and Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper

Accessories: Eyelet Border punch, Clear Embossing powder, Heat tool and brayer

Happy Birthday, Heather!

2009-05-28T14:27:00.005-04:00

I am sorry this isn't the best picture of this card. I took it with my camera on macro and it doesn't use a flash. I wanted to use the camera though so that you could see the dimension of the card. If I had used the scanner it wouldn't show the little suspended piece. This is a tutorial from Splitcoaststampers. My card was inspired by the one Beate Johns did for the tutorial.

Stamp Sets: Birthday Whimsy (Retired), So Many Scallops (Retired)
Paper: Whisper White, Real Red, Bashful Blue, Old Olive and Summer Picnic Designer Series Paper (Retired)
Ink: Real Red, Old Olive and Bashful Blue Classic Stampin' pads
Accessories: Scallop Circle punch. 1 and 3/8 inch circle punch, Real Red grosgrain ribbon, dimensionals

The suspended piece is taped to white dental floss

Need Retired Stampin' Up!® stamp sets?

2009-05-21T19:03:00.002-04:00

I just added more sets to the retired list that I would like to sell. If you click on the picture of the stamp sets (on the right- hand side of my blog) it will take you to a google document that has the pictures of the sets and the prices. If you have any questions, just leave me a comment to this posting and I will get back to you!

Card for Shanna

2009-05-19T16:04:00.005-04:00

About a month ago on Shelli Gardner's blog, she mentioned that her daughter, Shanna, hadn't received many cards for her birthday. Lots of people had sent emails but she was missing the "real" thing. I sent her a card and that sweet girl sent me a letter back! This is the card that I made to send back to her responding to her questions. I tell ya...there is a lot of pressure stamping for the daughter of the Cofounder and CEO of Stampin' Up!

I got this idea that other day and decided it would be the one that I would send to Shanna. It didn't turn out quite as pretty as it looked in my head, but I was still pleased enough to send it on. My stamping time is limited so I am not sure I could have done much better!

Stamp set: Baroque Motifs

Ink: Mellow Moss and Barely Banana Classic Stampin' pad

Paper: Whisper White, Barely Banana, Mellow Moss and Bliss Blue card stock

Accessories: Scallop Edge punch, SAB ribbon (retired) and Dimensionals

Happy Birthday, Sis!

2009-05-16T11:55:00.003-04:00

This is the birthday card that I made for my sister, Jessica, who turned 35 on May 13th.

Stamp set: Party Hearty
Ink: Close to Cocoa Classic Stamp pad
Paper: Bella Rose Designer Series paper, Pink Pirouette, Riding Hood Red, Very Vanilla and Close to Cocoa
Accessories: Big Bold Cupcakes Die, Lots of Tags Die, Pretty in Pink Taffeta ribbon, Dazzling Diamonds glitter, Dimensionals

Mom's Day Take 3

2009-05-14T16:05:00.003-04:00

This is my card for my step-mom, Sharon.

Stamps: Fresh Cuts

Paper: Very Vanilla, Glossy White, and Brushed Gold

Ink: Gold Encore, Vanilla Craft ink, Creamy Caramel Reinker, Old Olive Reinker and Really Rust Reinker

Accessories: Heat tool, Scallop edge punch, Clear Detail Embossing powder, Crafters' tool kit

Rubbing alcohol and cotton balls

Just in case you don't know how to do the Polished Stone technique...take your cotton balls and wet them with alcohol. Squeeze out the cotton ball so that it isn't dripping wet. Use reinkers to place dots of color on the cotton ball (I used 3 colors here). Pounce the cotton ball onto the glossy white cardstock. I turn the cotton ball in different directions as I pounce to spread the color. When you start to notice that the color isn't transferring, re-wet the cotton ball and put more ink on. Repeat this process until the glossy cardstock is covered. Usually one of the colors of reinkers is a metallic one. When the metallic ink mixes with the alcohol you get a nice veined effect. I used the Gold Metallic ink on top to stamp with, so I just used the regular reinkers for the background.

M is for Mom

2009-05-11T11:40:00.003-04:00

This is my Mother's Day card for my mother-in-law, Linda. I am very lucky to have a very nice mother-in-law! No horror stories here!

Stamps: Lovely Letters
Ink: Baja Breeze
Paper: Shimmer White and Baja Breeze
Accessories: Manhattan Flower Textured Impressions Die, Scallop Edge punch, stamping sponges

I used the stamping sponges to sweep the Baja Breeze ink over the raised edges of the flowers.