FA_Stamper

Upcoming Changes for Stampin' Up!

2012-01-27T08:00:00.003-06:00

At Leadership Conference last week Stampin' Up! announced a few changes that I believe will help customers and Demonstrators alike. Here is a brief overview. Please contact me or your local demonstrator with any further questions.

CATALOG--The Current 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog will not end in May. You have until the end of May to get things on your wish list and the 2010-2012 In Colors. Stampin' Up! will still have a retired stamp set list and retired accessory list, coming out the 1st of May. The NEW 2012-2013 Annual Catalog will come out June 1st and last till May 2013.

MINI CATALOGS--The current Occasions Mini Catalog will last until it's scheduled date the end of April. Starting in August Stampin' Up! will reveal it's first Seasonal Catalog. There will be two seasonal catalogs a year and will last for 5 months, giving everyone more time to get all the exciting products they want. There are some other changes to the Seasonal Catalogs, but I will let you wait and be surprised when it arrives in your mailbox.

DISCONTINUED PRODUCTS--Stampin' Up! has decided to end it's Decor Elements and Simply Adorned line of products. You have until the end of May to order these items. Stampin' Up! loves these products, but wants to focus on what they do best---STAMPS!

Tomorrow some wonderful photos of Leadership treats.

More Valentine's Cards

2012-01-26T11:23:00.002-06:00

Here is the second group of cards I got from swaps last week. These are wonderful layouts also. You can just change the sentiment and boom, new card.

By Jackie Groves--I love this technique. The embossing folders add so much texture to the card.

By Donna Pelon --Classic Layout with so many possibilities.

By M A Sanders--Who doesn't want a little bling on their card? I absolutely love this Twitterpatted DSP.

By Gayle McCracken--She heat embossed the heart. And the framed embossing folder is a must have for everyone.

ORDER Stampin' Up! Products online 24/7 at My Demonstrator Websit e. Be sure to check back later for all the details about my New Frequent Stamper Program.

Valentine Swaps

2012-01-25T09:01:00.001-06:00

I love swapping cards with other demonstrators and Valentine's were a popular theme to swap last week at the Stampin' Up! Leadership Conference. I swapped approximately 100 cards and ended up with 16 Valentine's. I have split them up into 4 groups.
The first group today has your traditional RED Valentine's. This classic look is my favorite.

By Krista Jensen --Love the new Fashionable Heart Embosslits Die from the Occasions Mini Catalog.

By Renee Piraino --The black embossing and letterpress plate are stunning.

By Erin Gonzales -- Hard to see in the photo, but she used Silver and Cobbler Dazzling Details on the edges of the hearts. This would be a perfect Valentine card for anyone on your list.

By Shirley Taylor --What a cute use of a stamp in another way. Most people use it for a Christmas tree.

Join Stampin' Up! for just $125 during Sale-A-Bration

2012-01-24T06:33:00.000-06:00

Joining anytime is great, but joining now is fabulous!

Join for Just $125!
Chose from our Starter Kits and join during Sale-A-Bratino for just $125 (regularly $175)! You'll receive product and business supplies valued at over $340.

Free Products for the Rest of 2012Besides an amazing price on your starter kit, you'll also get a free pack of Designer Series Paper (excludes Specialty Designer Series Paper) or a digital download every month for the rest of the year! Simply place a demonstrator order each month and you'll be able to choose a qualifying paper or digital download for free! (does not include shipping and handling charges).

Our starter kits are created exclusively for new demonstrators, contain Stampin' Up! essentials you'll need to get started in your new business. You can choose between the standard Starter Kit and the Digital+ Starter Kit. Both Starter Kits are customizable allowing you to choose products that you want to run your business your way

The standard Starter Kit includes

Four complete stamp sets (including a clear-mount set and clear-mount block)
A Stampin' Around wheel, handle, and ink cartridge
Assortment of Designer Series Paper and card stock
White envelopes (40)
Four Classic Stampin' Pads
Two Stampin' Write markers
VersaMark Pad
Whisper White 5/8" satin ribbon
Always Bird Décor Elements and applicator
Adhesives
Blender pen
Color Coach
Cupcake Punch
Stamping sponge
Stampin' Scrub and Mist
Box of Idea Book & Catalogs
Business forms and tools

The Digital+ Starter Kit includes

My Digital Studio digital designing software
His & Hers Digital Content Collection DVD
One clear-mount stamp set (including a clear-mount block)
Assortment of card stock
Note cards and envelopes (20)
Four Classic Stampin' Pads
Real Red 1/4" grosgrain ribbon
Brights Designer Buttons
Always Bird Décor Elements and applicator
Adhesives
Blender Pen
Stampin' Scrub and Mist
Box of Idea Book & Catalogs
Business forms and tools

Contact me today with any questions about having your own business with Stampin' Up! You can sign-up online 24/7 at My Demonstrator Website.

It's Time To Sale-A-Brate!!

2012-01-24T00:10:00.000-06:00

Sale-A-Bration is here again and it's as simple as always.

Order $50 in Stampin' Up! products (before tax & shipping) and select one items for the Sale-A-Bration catalog for FREE!

Order $100 in products and receive two SAB items for FREE!

Order $150 in products and receive three SAB items for FREE, $25.00 in FREE product for reaching hostess status and an exclusive reusable shopping bag.

Order more than $200 in products and the FREE products just get Better and Better.

Check out the Sale-A-Bration Catalog HERE!

Choose from exclusive stamp sets, ribbon & brad packs, designer papers, and select items from the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog.

ORDER ONLINE 24/7 HERE

Stampin' Up! "My Way"

2012-01-23T18:35:00.001-06:00

My most favorite thing about being a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator is that I can run my business "My Way". It has allowed me to hold workshops, classes and clubs in a way that fits into my family schedule. I have had the flexibility to slow down my business when things got busy at home. I even stopped for the last couple months while renovating my home.
I am ready to hit the cardstock hard now and went to Leadership Conference in San Antonio last week to help me gain some new ideas on how to enhance my business.

Each year Stampin' Up! selects a theme for their conferences. This years theme is "My Way". Focusing on the ability of each demonstrator to run their business in a way that suits him/her. In the spirit of doing it "My Way" they gave demonstrators a wide selection of classes to attend. I chose some great ones.
First, after the opening group session was "Sharing the Stampin' Up! Opportunity" with Brian Pilling. He gave all of us some things to think about when it comes to the relationships we develop with our customers. Especially some thoughts to what things our future downline demonstrators are most concerned about when deciding to join Stampin' Up! and how we can ease the fears when starting a new business.
On the second full day I attended three classes. Before lunch I had "Retaining and Engaging your Downline" with Donna Griffith and Patsy Waggoner. Patsy was so inspiring. She told us "Her Way" of building her downline group to meet a personal goal of hers. I can't wait to start implementing some of her ideas for recognition, training and simply enjoying stamping with my downline.
After lunch I went to "Coaching for Performance" with Natalie White and Jim Pitt. I found this to be one of the most helpful sessions. I have been a demonstrator for 6 years now. I know what types of classes and workshops I enjoy doing the most. But what works for me may not work for someone else. Natalie and Jim helped us to work with our downline to see what they want the most out of this business and how to coach them to achieve their goals.
Before our final group session I attended one last class with Carrie Cudney titled "Why Women Buy". This was a great way to end classes. I found it entertaining to look at the way the female race determines what we buy. She had several books for us to consider reading. My Nook will be getting a workout soon. I picked up a few tips from her already and plan to look more carefully at the products I group together for my next workshop.

There were many wonderful things about Leadership conference. I will share those another day. Before then how about I share the fantastic bag they gave us to carry all of our things in. Demonstrators are so lucky to be associated with this fantastic company. Who wouldn't love to get this bag? The lower section is even reversable. Sorry, you can't have mine, but contact me and I will be more than happy to help you develop a business with Stampin' Up! so you can attend Leadership next year. The best part, you can do it "Your Way".

Exclusive Offer December 13th & 14th ONLY!

2011-12-13T08:02:00.002-06:00

Treat yourself to an early Christmas gift. Get over $350 worth of great Stampin' Up! Products for ONLY $125 by signing up to be a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator. This offer is only good through demonstrators attending Leadership Conference (which I am) and only good for the next two days.
You can sign up online right now at my Demonstrator Business Website.
You can choose from the Standard Starter Kit or the My Digital Studio Starter Kit. To sweetin' the deal SU! is also giving you the choice of a FREE pack of Designer Series Paper or Digital Download EVERY month from February thru December of 2012. That is an approx $120 value right there.
There is nothing to loose. Contact me today with any questions.

(Publication shown is the Demonstrator Monthly Magazine full of tips and ideas. Demonstrators receive this publication for FREE.)

Online Extravaganza

2011-11-19T07:43:00.001-06:00

Stampin' Up! is kicking off the holiday season with some great savings. The online extravaganza will begin Monday, November 21, 2011, and run through Wednesday, November 30, 2011. Shop some great deals from the comfort of your own home.

Log in to my Online Store on Monday, November 21, to take advantage of great savings, like FREE digital downloads valued at $40 when you buy My Digital Studio Express, 60 percent off select Designer Fabrics, and 30 percent off an exclusive ribbon bundle!

In addition, there will be two items on sale for 24 hours only (November 21, 12:01 AM - 11:59 PM [MT])-so make sure you don't miss the first 24 hours of Online Extravaganza!

SPECIAL BONUS--Anyone who places an online order thru my website during this promotion will be entered into a drawing for a gift certificate from me. The more people that order, the higher the gift certificate will be ($10 minimum). Additional drawing entries for every $40 in product you purchase. Drawing will be held on December 1st.

Watch for more detailed information on November 21st on My Demonstrator Website.

Digital Scrapbooking Day

2011-11-04T07:58:00.000-05:00

Digital Scrapbooking Day is November 5th, but Stampin' Up! is celebrating all weekend long, from November 4-7. The event will include Free Downloads, blog posts and exciting project ideas. Go to www.MyDigitalStudio.net, complete a short survey and download your FREE digital content, then stay for all the exciting action. You can use this digital content in My Digital Studio available from Stampin' Up! OR with any digital software program, such as Adobe Workshop. What a great chance to try out Stampin' Up! Digital Downloads for yourself.
These Free downloads are only available for the weekend. After the event is over the downloads will be in the online shop for their regular price.

You can purchase My Digital Studio Online at My Demonstrator Website. There are two versions. My Digital Studio (#118108) is the full software (comes in disk form) and 100's of Stampin' Up! exclusive artwork, papers and digital accessories to use over and over. My Digital Studio Express (#124483) is a downloadable version with the full software, but select digital content from the original disk version. There is also a ton of downloadable content available in the Stampin' Up! Shop with new things coming every month.

Simple In Color Treats

2011-10-27T09:35:00.004-05:00

Last month I had a need for some quick little thank you's. The Top Note Die for the Big Shot is perfect when you need something fast.

I cut the Top Note shape from a piece of each current In Color cardstock. Then a scored a couple lines on both sides of center for my mini candy bars to fit into. It isn't necessary to score the lines, but I am just like that. I put a little bit of snail adhesive inside to help the candy bar from sliding out the side. Using my Crop-A-Dile I punched a hole in the top and tied a piece of ribbon through it. The front image is stamped with the Oval All Stamp Set and punched out with the scallop oval punch. I used Stampin' Write Markers to color a little bit on the image.

Here is a close up of the treats.

The 2010-2012 In Colors. Available until end of June 2012 (Front to Back)

Poppy Parade, Blushing Bride, Peach Parfait, Pear Pizzazz, Concord Crush

The 2011-2013 In Colors. (Front to Back)

Lucky Limeade, Pool Party, Calypso Coral, Wisteria Wonder, Island Indigo

ONLY 4 MORE DAYS LEFT ---GET YOUR FREE BIG SHOT FOR BECOMING A STAMPIN' UP! DEMONSTRATOR DURING OCTOBER. Contact me or your local demonstrator today for more details.

More Halloween Ideas

2011-10-26T10:55:00.002-05:00

I sure have some talented friends. Here are a few more of the cards I received from swaps with my demonstrator friends.
Again all the stamp sets can be found in the 2011 Holiday Mini Catalog.

Halloween Ideas

2011-10-25T13:53:00.001-05:00

One of the best things about Stampin' Up! is all the great friends you make. I have gotten to meet many demonstrators from all over the US and Canada. One of the enjoyable things we do throughout the year is swap cards. These are some of the Halloween cards I have received from my great Stampin' Up! Demonstrator friends. All of the stamp sets can be found in the Current Holiday Mini Catalog.

Contact me today to find out more about becoming a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator. Join during October and receive a Big Shot (or choice of $100 worth of product) for FREE!

Christmas Card Class

2011-10-20T10:39:00.000-05:00

This Saturday is the second session of my Christmas Card Class. Class participants will make 10 cards (5 each of 2 designs) with envelopes for $25.00. This is one of the designs for this month. I have a couple more spots in the class. It is at 11:00 in my stamping room. Please RSVP on my Class Calendar.
This card features the "Dear Santa" Stamp Set from the current Holiday Mini Catalog along with the Two Tags Die and some punch art cookies.

Products Used:

Stamps: Dear Santa (wm#123823, cm#123824)

Cardstock: Old Olive, Real Red, Confetti White, Chocolate Chip, Crumb Cake

Ink: Stampin' Write Markers (Real Red, Chocolate Chip, Old Olive

Accessories: Color Spritzer, Scallop Circle Punch, Paper Snips, Two Way Glue Pen, 1 3/4 Circle Punch, Real Red Satin Ribbon, Petals-A-Plenty Embossing Folder

Christmas Card without a Christmas Image

2011-10-18T16:11:00.000-05:00

It is getting closer. Have you been thinking about your Christmas cards for this year? Do you have your stamp set picked out yet? Maybe you don't have any Traditional Christmas images or don't want to use the same one as last year. Maybe your budget is just tight and you want a stamp set you can use all year long.
I have the answer for you. "Delicate Doilies" (wm#122590, cm#122592) found on page 127 of the 2011-2012 Idea Book and Catalog. This stamp set can be used for just about any occasion. All you need is a sentiment for whatever purpose you need a card.

All three of these cards use the Delicate Doilies Stamp Set along with the Curly Cute Stamp Set. A simple change of the colors and presto. The colors are all from the Bold Brights Color Collection and the buttons are all found in the Bold Bright Designer Buttons Pack. If you don't have a lot of ink pads yet, I would suggest the Stampin' Spots. You get an entire color collection of 1" ink pads for a fraction of the cost of a set of full size ink pads. Later, when you find yourself using one color more often, you can purchase the full size pad. It is a great way to start when you are not sure what colors you will use the most.
Here are some close-ups of the cards. Each one also uses an embossing folder on the right hand side. You could just as easily stamp this area in a tone on tone manner or even leave it blank. As always my favorite way to step up a card is with dimensionals. I used them under the sentiment strip. The button is held on with a mini glue dot.

Products Used:

Stamps : Delicate Doilies (wm#122590, cm#122592), Curly Cute (wm#117014, cm#120510)

Cardstock: Bold Brights (#119706), Whisper White (#100730)

Ink: Bold Brights Classic Ink (Full size #119694, Stampin' Spots #119714)

Accessories: Bold Bright Designer Buttons (#119747), Linen Thread (#104199), Dimensionals (#104430), Mini Glue Dots (#103683), Big Shot (#113439), Embossing Folders--Stripes (#123128), Vintage Wallpaper (#120175), Petals-a-Plenty (#116824)

Sign-up to become a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator by October 31, 2011 and get a FREE Big Shot! Already have a Big Shot, select $100 worth of Stampin' Up! Products of your choice. Contact me today with questions about becoming a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator or go to my Demonstrator Website to sign up today.

Big Shot Blog Hop

2011-10-14T08:00:00.002-05:00

For those who don't know, my husband has received orders for a new assignment. I have spent the last few weeks getting our home ready to put up for sale. For this reason I have not had any time to stamp. I thank you for your patience and I hope to be back to stamping very soon.

I do have a very special treat for you today though. My wonderful friends at Stampin' Addicts are doing a Big Shot Blog Hop. These are some very talented ladies and I know you will find all of their projects truly inspirational. Each person on the Hop is focusing on a different Big Shot Die, so be sure to go through the entire Hop. You simply need to click on the icons at the end of each posting.

To get started click HERE. It will take you to the first stop on the Stampin' Addicts Big Shot Blog Hop, where Rhonda is waiting to show you the new Embossing Frames. If you would like to learn more about Stampin' Addicts, please go to the website www.stampinaddicts.com

FREE BIG SHOT!! If you would like to learn how you can get your own Big Shot for FREE, please contact me or any of the fine ladies on the Hop. We would all love to share the world of Stampin' Up! with you.

Greeting Cards Kids Spring Card

2011-10-03T08:01:00.000-05:00

Here is another one of those simple Fun Fold Cards that adds a lot. This was the third Fun Fold card we did at Stamp Camp Last month. Folds flat into the envelope. When the recipient takes it out, it Springs Up!

The stamp set is Greeting Card Kids. You can easily make this card with any of the stamps in the set. The entire image is colored in with Stampin' Write Markers. The grassy area at the bottom was two step. First, I took the flat side of my Pear Pizzaz and colored the entire area in one layer strokes. (If you go over the area more than once, it will get a little darker) Then I took an Old Olive Marker and drew on the little whisps of grass.

Side view below. You can write a message on the back of the card if you like.

Don't miss out on this month's Stamp Camp--October 15th or 17th. Go to the calendar of events on My Demonstrator Website to reserve your spot today.

Products Used:

Stamps: Greeting Card Kids, Teeny Tiny Wishes

Colors: Naturals White, Concord Crush, Pumpkin Pie DSP

Inks: Basic Black, Stampin' Write Markers

Accessories: Scallop Edge Punch, Word Window Punch

Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps

2011-10-01T07:24:00.005-05:00

The easy-to-use cookie stamp has a solid wood handle with three interchangeable stamp images: a heart, a jack-o-lantern, and a snowflake.

Just make your favorite shortbread cookie dough (or one of the two included recipes) and stamp away! Create beautiful, hand-stamped cookies in a flash. The stamp images are completely food-safe and child-friendly. No-Ink Required.

Contact me to order yours today or order online 24/7 at My Demonstrator Website.

Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps--Item #125152
Only $16.95
Available until January 3, 2011.

FREE BIG SHOT!!!

2011-10-01T07:15:00.001-05:00

You heard me right. Stampin' Up! is giving a Free Big Shot to anyone who signs up to be a Demonstrator during the month of October. That is over $440 worth of Stampin' Up! Products for only $175. WOW! You can choose from the Standard Starter Kit or the Digital + Starter Kit.
This is a fabulous promotion. Already have a Big Shot? No Problem. You can substitute $100 worth of product instead. As always you can supplement anything in the Starter Kit for products of similar nature and value. Sign up now and you will be ready for the Holidays and Sale-A Bration at the first of the year. Sign up now and you can be a demonstrator for 6 months with no obligations. Your first quota will not be due until the END of March. What do you have to loose?
There is no obligation to hold workshops or classes. You can be whatever type of demonstrator you wish to be. If you simply want to purchase products for your own use, that is fine also. Stampin' Up! doesn't mind. Of course, you can always grow your own business and Stampin' Up! is here to help you.
Stampin' Up! is a fabulous family and values it's demonstrators. They have all sorts of things to help you be the kind of demonstrator you want to be. They have been in business for over 20 years, are completely debt free, and maintains the highest standards of business practices and products.
If you have any questions about being a demonstrator, please contact me. I am more than happy to share the Stampin' Up! Opportunity with you.
Ready to sign up? Go to My Demonstrator Website today and sign-up online. You will receive your confirmation email within an hour, so you can order your Big Shot (or $100 worth of product of your choice) today.

Free Standing Pop-up Card

2011-09-28T17:29:00.000-05:00

I love this fancy fold. Makes for a fun card to give and the receiver can display their card easily. For those who have never made a Free Standing Pop-up Card it folds up to fit in a standard size envelope. This card was part of a Fun/Fancy Fold theme for my September Stamp Camp held a couple weeks ago.
The main image area was done with a masking technique. You stamp the image you would like upfront first (the cloud). Then you cover it up with the same image cut from a piece of scrap. When you stamp the second image (the moon) it won't stamp lines through the first image. I them masked off the cloud, the moon and the pumpkins before sponging all over the entire area. The masks were them removed and the pumpkins and moon colored in with marker.

Don't miss out on the October Stamp Camp next month. Check out my events calendar on My Demonstrator Website.

Products Used:

Stamps: Out on a Limb (wm#123822, cm# 123824), Teeny Tiny Wishes (wm#115370)

Cardstock: Basic Grey (#121004), Basic Black (#121045), Whisper White (#100730)

Ink: Basic Black (101179), Chocolate Chip (#100908), Marina Mist (#119668), Night of Navy (102977), Stampin' Write markers

Accessories: Sticky Strip (#104294), 1" Circle Punch (119868), Daffodil Delight Satin Ribbon, Pumpkin Pie Grosgrain, Early Espresso Bakers Twine (#123124), Bold Bright Buttons (#119747), Neutrals Brads (#119736), Stampin' Sponges (#101610)

Christmas Card Class this Saturday

2011-09-22T09:41:00.000-05:00

"Joy to the World", it is time for Christmas Card Classes. "The Sounding Joy" is a new stamp set by Stampin' Up! in the 2011 Holiday Mini Catalog. This set has so many possibilities. It is perfect for those elegantly embossed Christmas cards like this one. This will be one of the two cards we are doing at this month's Christmas Card Class on Saturday.

Only need a few cards this year? No problem. Need 30 cards this year? No problem. Come one month, two months or all three. Each month we will be making 10 cards (5 each of 2 designs). 30 cards in all (5 each of 6 designs). This is the first month, so you have not missed anything. Each month is $25.00 and includes all 10 cards and envelopes. Future class dates are October 22nd and November 19th. Classes start at 11:00 in my home. Call me with any questions or to register today.
Registration for this month's class closes at 6:00pm TODAY. (Sept. 22nd)

Order Stampin' Up! products online 24/7 by clicking on "Shop Now" in the upper right hand corner of My Demonstrator Website.

Products Used:

Stamps: The Sounding Joy (wm #121967, cm #121979)

Colors: Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White, Brushed Silver (#100712)

Accessories: Cherry Cobbler Embossing Powder (#122949), Silver EP (#109131), Dimensionals (#104430), VersaMark ink pad (#102283) , Heat Tool (#100005), Ticket Corner Punch (#119867), Cherry Cobbler Dotted Scallop Ribbon (#124138)

Birthday Boy

2011-09-19T11:18:00.000-05:00

I have been busy the last week with workshops, classes and life in general. I will post a few of the workshop cards in a few days. For now I have a quick post of a Birthday Card I made for a special little 5 year old's party the other day. I don't have any truck or dinosaur stamps, so I had to come up with something a little more general. This card was quick, simple and can be done in any color combination to suit the receiver.

The little boy is into Transformers, so I tried to go with a bold color scheme to mimic the bold colored robots. So you have your Optimus Prime (Real Red and Pacific Point) colored cupcake with your Bumblebee (Daffodil Delight) card base and a little Old Olive accent for good measure. The cupcake panel and sentiment circle are put up on dimensionals (my must have product).

You can order Stampin' Up! products online 24/7 by clicking "shop now" in the upper corner of My Demonstrator Website. Don't forget to "Follow Me on Facebook" and have all the blog updates sent directly to your News Feed.

Products Used:

Stamps: Word Play (wm #120308, cm #120651), (Crazy for Cupcakes (wm #111618)

Colors: (cardstock and markers to color) Daffodil Delight, Old Olive, Pacific Point, Real Red, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Basic Black Classic Ink Pad

Accessories: Fire Rhinestone Square Brads (#109112), Real Red Satin Ribbon (#117286), Scallop Circle Punch (#119854), 1-3/4" Circle Punch (#119850), Houndstooth Embossing Folder (#123134), Big Shot (#113439), Dimensionals (#104430)

Simply Stunning Doily

2011-09-14T10:19:00.000-05:00

I really enjoy when a card is quick, easy and full of WOW! I participated in a swap with my fellow Stampin' Addict Demonstrators a couple weeks back. Normally in swaps I have a tendency to use lots of things like embossing folders or extra embellishments. This time we were given strict guidelines to the number of things we could use.
We were only allowed to use one color family.....I chose Bold Brights.
We were only allowed to use one embellishment.....I chose Real Red Satin Ribbon.
We were only allowed to use one stamp set (and sentiment if none in stamp set chosen)......I chose Hello, Doily.

The idea was to keep it simple and not use a lot of different products. I stamped the image in versamark and covered it with various colors from my Stampin' Pastels using a cotton ball. This technique called Poppin' Pastels is one of my favorite. It always brings out the colors in a bold way. I started in the center with some Daffodil Delight. Next I added some Tangerine Tango and Old Olive. Lastly I put on some Pacific Point. I then lightly rubbed the Pacific Point cotton ball over the outer area of the Whisper White cardstock. As you are adding each color, blend it into the one before. At the end I gently brushed my Pacific Point cotton ball over the entire area to clean up any dust left behind. It also gave that little bit of shade to really pull the colors forward.
The sentiment is from my go to sentiment set, Sincere Salutations. It is stamped in Basic Black Classic Ink. You can easily make this card in any color scheme to match the occasion. The ribbon is two pieces. The first is long and adheres to the back. The second is short and ties to the first piece.

You can order Stampin' Up! Products 24/7 by clicking on "Shop Now" in the upper right corner of My Demonstrator Website.

Products Used:

Stamps: Hello, Doily (wm #122845), Sincere Salutations (#115068)

Cardstock: Daffodil Delight, Tangerine Tango, Whisper White

Ink: Versamark (#102283), Basic Black (#101179)

Accessories: Real Red Satin Ribbon (#117291), Stampin' Pastels (#120962)

Stampin' Pastels (#120962)

Versamark (#102283)

Embossing Folders--Not just for backgrounds

2011-09-08T20:17:00.000-05:00

Anyone who has stamped with me knows I have a love affair with the embossing folders. They are a quick and easy way to add that extra something to your cards. I tend to use them for backgrounds when they feel plain. But they can just as easily be the focal point too.
We made this card at the August Stamp Camp. The Flower Garden Embossing Folder was designed to be part of the "Beyond the Garden" Product Suite on pages 106-107 of the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog. I think it goes equally well with the Paisley Petals Designer Series Paper on page 184.

And what do you think of that ribbon? The New Artichoke Denim Jean Ribbon on page 194. It is fabulous and also comes in Blue Jean. I pulled out one of my stand by stamp sets "Oval All" and matching Scallop Oval Punch. A few dimensionals and we are done. Quick, easy and a great way to use those little pieces of DSP you have left over from cutting the sheet for other projects.

Order Stampin' Up! Products online 24/7 at My Demonstrator Website. Have all of my blog posts sent to your Facebook News Feeds by liking my Demonstrator Facebook Page.

Products Used:

Stamps: Oval All (#)

Ink: Bravo Burgundy (#105214)

Cardstock: Marina Mist (#119668), Paisley Petals DSP (#122367)

Accessories: Flower Garden Embossing Folder (#), Artichoke Denim Ribbon (#125054), Scallop Oval Punch (#119856), Big Shot (#113439), Scallop Trim Border Punch (#118402), Dimensionals (#104430)

Make your own chipboard with the Big Shot

2011-09-06T13:56:00.000-05:00

For the last few months I have changed my monthly class format from a club to a stamp camp format. This has allowed people to come as they are able and work more within their budget. Each month we still do a variety of projects. In August we did a series of projects using the Big Shot. I showed you the "Beautiful Wings" card last week. This week I wanted to show you another great use for your Big Shot. Making your own chipboard.

The Big Shot is capable of cutting through many types of material from cardstock to fabric, chipboard and even thin metals. Stampin' Up! sells sheets of chipboard that are easily cut with the Big Shot metal edge dies. Not everyone has chipboard lying around though. It is easy to make your own. Simply cut multiples of the same shape from any of our cardstock colors. You can also cut other materials around your house, like the boxes that most food comes packaged in.

For this example I cut 5 of each number out of Crumb Cake Cardstock. The layers can be help together with a little bit of two way glue pen. I chose Crumb Cake for the base of my homemade chipboard as most chipboard looks like a tan style cardboard. You can then stamp on the cardstock, color it with inks or markers, or cut an additional layer from designer series paper or another cardstock color. I left this one plain to match the embossed strip at the bottom of the page. To make the strip at the bottom, I put the center of the strip in the Stripes Embossing Folder and ran it thru the Big Shot. Then I moved the folder over so the last stripe lined up with the folder. I then ran in thru the Big Shot just to the end of the embossing folder. I did the same thing on the other side. Now the stripes go all the way across.

The flowers on the left side are made with the Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch. There are so many ways you can use the pieces. You can put the layers on straight or twist them up. You can decorate them with brads, buttons or other small accents. I attached the flowers to the page with snail if it was completely off the photo mat. Any flowers that went over the photo were attached with a dimensional. This way the photo could be added later.

The next Stamp Camp will be on Saturday, September 17th @ 11:00 am. For more information or to register, check out My Demonstrator Website Calendar of Events. Can't make it on Saturday, there is also a Monday option.

Order Stampin' Up! Products online 24/7 at My Demonstrator Website.

Products Used:

Colors: Melon Mambo, Concord Crush, Bashful Blue, Pear Pizzazz, Whisper White, Pretty in Pink, Crumb Cake

Accessories: Alphabet Simple Numbers (#115968), Timeless Type Alphabet (#115951), Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch (#122464), In Color Glimmer Brads (#121005), Pearl Accents (#119247), Brights Designer Buttons (#119747), Tasteful Trim Die (#120893), Big Shot (#113439), Dimensionals (#104430), Lace Ribbon Punch (#122362), Stripes Embossing Folder (#123128)

Lace Ribbon Border Punch #122362

Brights Designer Buttons #119747

Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch #122464

Operation Lean On Me

2011-09-03T17:54:00.000-05:00

I had the opportunity to meet an amazing group of ladies a couple weeks ago. They are a group of Army Wives in a small unit with a lot of heart. They have several "sister" units stationed around the globe that are going through deployments and general rough times. These ladies wanted to reach out and brighten the days of some of their sister wives. They chose to first support a unit from Fort Polk, LA that has unfortunately lost several soldiers during their latest deployment. They asked me to help them make some very special projects to remind the unit that they are not alone in their fight. We made all of the wives a card and decorated candle.

Both projects use a technique I enjoy. To make the flowers look softer in nature, you break up the fibers inside and then peel them apart into two pieces. You can break the fibers in the cardstock by crumpling or running it through a crimper several times. We used the crimper as it leaves a wavy style design to the cardstock when finished. The candle box is made from a 6.5" square that was scored like a tic-tac-toe board at 1-3/4" on each side. The sides were then punched with the scallop trim edge punch before folding into the box bottom.
I had such a fun time helping these woman support their "sister" unit and look forward to more projects with them in the future.

Products Used:

Stamp Sets: Word Play (mw #120308, cm #120651), Tiny Tags (wm #118091)

Ink: Stampin' Write Markers--Cherry Cobbler (#119681), Early Espresso (#119680)

Cardstock: Early Espresso, Daffodil Delight, Old Olive, Whisper White, Cherry Cobbler

Accessories: 5 Petal Flower Punch (#119880), Scallop Trim Border Punch (#118402), Fun Flowers Bigz L Die (#121812), Big Shot (#113439), Crimper (#), Framed Tulip Embossing Folder (#121809), Jewlery Tag Punch (#117190), Two Step Bird Punch (#117191), Cherry Cobbler Scallop Dots Ribbon (#124138), Lace Ribbon Border Punch (#122362), Boho Blossom Punch (#119858), Clear Rhinestone Brads (#113144), Gold Brads (#104337), Dimensionals (#104430), Sticky Strip (#104294), Linen Thread (#104199)

It's Time for the Holiday Mini Catalog!

2011-09-01T10:59:00.000-05:00

The Holiday Mini Catalog starts today. I am so excited for this mini to start. It is FULL of great stamp sets, coordinating punches, new accessories and fabulous ideas. You can view the catalog online here.

There are so many great things I don't even know where to start. How about with Halloween?

The "Out On A Limb" Stamp Set is fun and has a lot of coordinating stamps to make a fun flying card or a spooky night scene. This card, with it's fancy fold, will be one of the projects at my September Stamp Camp on Saturday, September 17th at 11:00. You can register for the class on My Demonstrator Website Calendar of Events. Can't come on Saturday? There is a Monday night option also.

Products Used:

Stamps: Out on a Limb (wm #123822, cm #123824)

Ink: Stazon Black (#101406), Early Espresso (#119670), White Craft Ink (#101731), Stampin' Write Markers (Coloring Images)

Cardstock: Night of Navy, Daffodil Delight, Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White

Accessories: Simply Scored (#122334), Paper Snips (#103579), Word Window Punch (#122161), 2-1/2" Circle Punch (#120906), Dimensionals (#104430)

"Sunny Fun" from the Summer Mini

2011-08-31T12:53:00.018-05:00

Today is the last day to order from the Summer Mini Catalog. Don't miss out on these great stamp sets. To make sure you get the items you want before they are gone, order online at My Demonstrator Website. The new Holiday Mini Catalog starts tomorrow. My regular customers should have received theirs in the mail already. If you still need one, please let me know.
Todays card features the "Sunny Fun " Stamp Set from the Summer Mini Catalog.
I used the flip flop image. The stamp set also has a row of kids in innertubes and a row of ice cream cones. The sentiment shown on the card is also part of this stamp set. The card itself is 3 x 6. This is a great size for getting the most out of a 12x12 piece of cardstock. Each piece will make 4 cards. Mine is Daffodil Delight. The Tangerine Tango piece was embossed with the Big Shot and the NEW Houndstooth Embossing Folder. The image has been colored in with Stampin' Pastels and a Blender Pen.

PRODUCTS USED:
Stamps: Sunny Fun (wm#123040 , cm#123042)
Ink: Stazon Black (#101406)
Cardstock: Daffodil Delight, Tangerine Tango, Concord Crush, Whisper White
Accessories: Daffodil Delight Taffeta Ribbon (#119254), Houndstooth Embossing Folder (#123134), Stampin' Pastels (#120962), Blender Pen (#102845), Big Shot (#113439), Dimensionals (#104430)

Big Shot Butterlies

2011-08-29T14:05:00.011-05:00

The Big Shot makes paper crafting so easy. One of my favorite Embosslits for the Big Shot is the Beautiful Wings (#118138). An embosslit both embosses (makes areas raised) and cuts the images out at the same time. The Beautfiul Wings Embosslit makes 5 different butterflies at the same time.
For this card I used the embosslit with 4 different colors of cardstock; Whisteria Wonder, Pumpkin Pie, Pretty in Pink, and Melon Mambo. Since the embosslit is so small (2-1/4" x 2-1/2"), it is a great way to use up small scraps.

You can stack the butterflies to give them a little more dimension. I used the largest butterfly for the center focal point and stacked two together for the bottom row. They are held together with a dab of 2 way glue pen. The rhinstone accent is the smallest in the package. There is one of the largest ones in the corner of the large butterfly. All the butterflies are then attached to the card using dimensionals. I cut smaller pieces off the dimensional sheet for the small butterflies. I still had a number of the butterflies left over, so I attached sever of the smallest ones to the inside of the card with some 2 way glue pen.

The little tag was made with the Tiny Tags Stamp Set and the Jewlery Tag Punch. The Tiny Tags Stamp Set does come in both wood mount and clear mount. The pieces are rather small, so I do suggest getting them in a wood mount. They are much easier to clean and stamp with this way, and much harder to loose accidentaly. The piece of Designer Paper at the bottom is from the Flirtacious Specialty DSP and ran through the crimper for some added dimension.

Place your order 24/7 online at My Demonstrator Website. Simply click "shop now" in the upper right corner.

PRODUCTS USED:

Stamps: Tiny Tags (wm #118091 , cm#118592)

Ink: Basic Black (#101179)

Cardstock: Naturals White, Melon Mambo, Pumpkin Pie, Whisper Whiseria, Pretty in Pink, Flirtacious Specialty Designer Series Paper (#122360)
Accessories: Beautiful Wings Embosslit (#118138), Big Shot (#113439), Dimensionals (#104430), 2 Way Glue Pen (#100425), Basic Rhinestone Jewel Accents (#119246), Crimper (#101618), Jewlery Tag Punch (#117190), Linen Thread (#104199)

Great Organization Find

2011-08-29T13:50:00.001-05:00

My local movie rental store went out of business last month. They had everything on sale. I picked up a couple of the racks they used to diplay DVD's that were previously rented for sale. The racks are perfect for displaying the cards I have gathered. Some of the cards are mine, others are from swaps with other demonstrators. I was able to sort them into category, so each time I need a card now I can just grap one from the right stack.

I have two of the racks. I figured out my ribbon and such fits well in them also. I just don't have a place right now to put the second rack.

Tell me about what unique way you have found to organize your stamping supplies.

FA_Stamper Now on FACEBOOK!

2011-08-29T12:35:00.001-05:00

I have had a number of friends sharing my projects with people I don't know personally. Bless You All! It makes me feel good that you like my projects enough to share them with others.

With the huge poularity of Facebook and other social media, I wanted to make it easier for people to receive notification of new blog posts and share things they like with their friends on Facebook or Twitter.

RECEIVE UPDATES DIRECTLY ON FACEBOOK--You can find me at Kathleen Brill-Myrice, Independent Stampin' Up! Demonstrator. Simply click "Like" at the top and all the updates to my blog and information for upcoming classes will show in your News Feeds.

SHARE BLOG POSTS WITH YOUR FRIENDS--For those who don't want to follow me on Facebook, but wish to share the occassional post with their friends, I have added the option to share an individual post from here on your Facebook page, Twitter or other social media account. If you are a Fan of my Facebook page, you can share posts directly with your friends on Facebook by clicking "Share" under the post on your News Feed.

Cute Little Treat

2011-08-29T11:00:00.000-05:00

The creativity of some of my fellow demonstrators is fantastic and their generosity in sharing their creations is incredible. This little basket is a combination of techniques I learned from a few people.
The first technique is to make the box itself. It is made from 2 die cuts from the Two Tags Die. The taller sides of the box are the die cuts. The shorter side of the box is a little insert I made to complete the box. The benifit of using the Two Tags Die is the slot to place the handle and the hole to put the brad. It takes the guessing out of perfectly placing the items.

The second technique is using punches to make those cute flowers. Look closely. Do you see it? They are the butterfly punch. That is so creative. You simply lay a couple of the butterflies on a paper towel, spritz with water and then color with a blender pen or aqua painter and a few drops of reinker. After they dried I drew a few lines with my marker for the center. A simple brad and voila.

The grass is simple. Cut a handful of strips (or use a bit of those strips left over from cutting down cardstock for layers) and put them through a crimper a few at a time. Put a bunch in the basket and a few sticking up from behind the flowers. DONE!

These baskets are the perfect size to hold a small bag of candy or a single plastic egg. The Designer Series paper wrapped around the middle, just adds that pefect little touch to dress it up.

Designer Series Paper is on special for another 3 days from Stampin' Up! Buy any 3 DSP packs and get an additional one for FREE!

You can place an order for Stampin' Up! Products 24/7 by going to My Stampin' Up! Website.

Baby Announcement Option #2

2011-08-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

When designing the card for my friend's baby announcements (shown yesterday), I made another sample to consider. This one also used the Fox & Friends stamp set, but was done in a criss cross pocket card style.
The front pocket covers were done in a One Sheet Wonder Manner. I stamped the animal images all over a sheet of Whisper White and then cut it into the pieces I needed. This is a wonderful way to make your own background paper in whatever colors you wish. The Chocolate Chip strip across the front of the card actually wraps around the entire card like a belly band. It is held closed with a little bit of sticky strip under the turtle area.
The entire insert lifts out so you can write your message, put a photo or the birth information on the front. You can of course turn it over to write something on the back if you wish. This card was enjoyable to make and I like the pull out section, but I am glad I made the other one for my friend. 50 of these would have put a cramp into my stamping hand with all those animals.

Products Used:
Stamps: Fox & Friends, (sentiment from retired hostess set)
Colors: More Mustard, Early Espresso, Garden Green, Not Quite Navy, Whisper White
Accessories: Round Tab Punch, Gold Brads, Scallop Circle Punch, 1-1/4" Circle Punch, Sticky Strip

Welcome Baby!

2011-08-03T11:42:00.008-05:00

I enjoy the chance to do something special for my good friends. A special friend of mine had her first child not too long ago. Being the wonderful person she is, she had lots of family and friends sending her clothes and other great gifts for the first time mom. What is a person to do for someone who is so loved by many and has all the basics she needs? Well make her a special card of course. Or in this case a set of 50 cards that can be sent to her family and friends.

This is the baby announcement I made for my friend. The front is one of my favorite stamp sets, "Fox & Friends". I was so glad to see it included in this years 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog. To form the layout I placed all of the stamps out on my Grid Paper. It took a little bit of math to figure out the size of each area. There is a 1/8" space between each section.

Grid Paper is a wonderful tool to have on your stamp table. It has a large area to protect your table from ink and other stamping messes. There is a small area to the side to make notes. Each border has a ruler, allowing you to measure for layers easily. I use it to measure just the right amount of fibbon when making multiple cards. You can use it to temporarily clean ink from your stamps before using your Stampin' Scrub. You can stamp off some of the ink on your grid paper to make your project stamping lighter. It is a great place to ink up your wheels before putting them to your projects. When I have inked my grid paper beyond normal use, I give it my kids to punch out shapes and keep them busy while I finish my projects. There are countless ways you can use your grid paper. It comes in a stack of 100--11" x 17" sheets for only $9.95. Item #102787.

One of the easiest ways to dress up a card is to use an embossing folder to texture the background. I used the Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder. The little button is from the Bitty Buttons Collection. It is a great value at 64 buttons for only $4.95. I tied a small piece of linen thread through the holes in the button to finish it off. It is held in place by a mini glue dot.

Products Used:

Stamps: Fox & Friends (#110702-Wood, #118565-Clear), Curvy Verses (#114948)

Colors: Bashful Blue, Certainly Celery, Crumb Cake, So Saffron, Black Stazon Ink

Accessories: Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder (#117335), Big Shot, Bitty Buttons (#118761), Linen Thread, 1/2" Circle Punch, Grid Paper (#102787), Mini Glue Dots

Retired Products for Sale

2011-08-01T14:23:00.002-05:00

I have updated the list of items I have for sale.
There are stamp sets, designer paper, punches, and other accessories.
For a full list see the post on July 22nd. HERE

Thanks for looking.

August Stamp Set of the Month

2011-08-01T13:01:00.002-05:00

August Stamp Set of the Month “Raining Flowers”
Accessory of the Month: Basic Pearl Jewels

When you order the August “Stamp Set of the Month” Bundle, you’ll get a kit containing all of the precut pieces needed to make 6 of the cards shown above for FREE! Additionally, you’ll be e-mailed a PDF File that contains step-by-step instructions on how to make the card shown above along with 3 BONUS designs for creative inspiration on other things that can be done with the featured stamp set so you can see it’s versatility and get the most bang for the buck! Supply Lists are included for the bonus designs, but not instructions.

Want more precut pieces? No problem! When you order the Stamp Set of the Month Bundle, you can order additional quantities of precut cardstock pieces in increments of 6 so that you can make as many as you want to have on hand!

August Stamp Set of the Month WOOD Bundle: $44.90 + Shipping and Tax
(Includes your order for the “Raining Flowers” stamp set in wood mount and 1 pack of Basic Pearls plus the FREE kit)

August Stamp Set of the Month CLEAR Bundle: $33.90 + Shipping and Tax
(Includes your order for the “Raining Flowers” stamp set in clear mount and 1 pack of Basic Pearls plus the FREE kit)

Additional Quantities of the August Kit: $6 + Shipping for every set of 6 cards

Other supplies you’ll want to order: Wisteria Wonder, Concord Crush, Perfect Plum and Lucky Limeade Classic Ink;, Medium White Envelopes, Paper Snips, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin’ Dimensionals and Bone Folder.

August Stampin' Up! Special

2011-08-01T10:27:00.004-05:00

Everyone loves Designer Series Paper. It only takes a little to add a lot to any project. This month Stampin' Up! has put their fabulous Designer Series Paper on Sale. Buy any 3 packs of DSP and get 1 for FREE! (a $10.95) value.
There is no limit to the number of FREE packs of DSP you can get.
Select any combination of the following Designer Series Papers.

122343 Nautical Expedition --Summer Mini
122367 Paisley Petals
122357 Beau Chateau
122354 Pocketful of Posies
122355 Domestic Goddess
124339 Just Add Cake
122351 Frightful Sight
122352 Timeless Portrait
122350 Berry Blossoms
122342 Beyond the Garden
122359 Well Worn
122347 Nursery Nest
122349 Letters to Santa
122348 Big Top Birthday

Retired Products For Sale--Buy 2 get 3rd FREE!

2011-07-22T14:34:00.005-05:00

List removed do to a very productive sale. I will not be listing stamps for sale until late spring or summer. Thank you to all those who bought my retired products. I hope you enjoy they as much as I did.

"Hello" Card

2011-07-20T15:56:00.005-05:00

I wanted to give a quick update for those looking for my retired stamp set list. I will do my best to have the list up soon. My person computer is out for repair, so I have to retype the entire list of stamp sets and sale prices. It is a long, list so please be patient. The first place the list will appear is here, so my loyal followers can have first selection.
On to some stampin. We made several cards at the Open House the other day. This one features the 2011-2013 In Colors that were just brought out by Stampin' Up! As always the colors are available in Cardstock, Ink, Markers, Ink refills, and a variety of designer paper and accessories. For this card, I used a Wisteria Wonder card base under my Whisper White stamp area. (Pardon the photo--I will try and upload better ones when my computer returns). The flower/leaf stamp from the "My Friend" stamp set was done in a two tone effect with Pool Party and Lucky Limeade Classic Inks. The sentiment, from the same stamp set, was done in Calypso Coral Classic Ink. To add a little decoration I used the Paper Piecing tool and made holes around the tail and "h" of the image. The strip at the bottom was punched with the ever popular Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch. The brad there is from the NEW 2011-2013 In Color Designer Printer Brads set. You get 8 brads of each of the 5 new In Colors.

Check back soon for more projects from the Open House event.

You can always order Stampin' Up! Products online 24/7 at my Stampin' Up! Website. You can also contact me about hosting your own workshop to make this and other great projects.

Products Used:

Stamps: My Friend (Wood Mount #122585, Clear Mount #122587)

Colors: Wisteria Wonder, Lucky Limeade, Pool Party, Calypso Coral

Accessories: Designer Printed Brads #122940, Paper-Piercing Tool #116631, Mat Pack #105862, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch #119275

Faux Mother of Pearl Series--Part 3 of 3

2011-07-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

This is the last project we did in stamp club using the Faux Mother of Pearl Technique. It is a book mark. They were truely simple to do and became a quick favorite of everyone in stamp club.Again, it is important to remember when stamping over the shimmer paint to use Stazon ink. The flowers are colored in using Stampin' Write Markers. The tassle is easy to make if you know the trick. (Post coming soon) I wish there was a better way to photograph this technique. The shimmer the Mother of Pearl technique adds to the projects is fabulous.

Products Used:

Stamps: Elements of Style

Colors: So Saffron Ink, Whisper White Cardstock, Black Stazon Ink, Subtles Markers

Accessories: Wide Grosgrain Ribbon, Brayer, Linen Thread, Frost Shimmer Paint, Crop-A-Dile

Faux Mother of Pearl Series--Part 2 of 3

2011-07-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

For the second project of stamp club each month we do a scrapbook page. Using the same technique as we did on the card, we created the boarder for the bottom of the page and for the title bar at the top.

To get the even coloring on the long strip we used a brayer to apply the Certainly Celery ink over the dabbed Shimmer Paint. A brayer is a wonderful way to get even coverage of ink over a large area. It is also useful for applying ink to large background size stamps. When stamping over top of the Mother of Pearl technique (like with the grass) it is important to use Stazon Ink. The butterfly is made by folding a die cut in half and tying a small piece of hemp twine around the body.

New stamp clubs are getting ready to start soon. Contact me for more information on how to join.

Products Used:

Stamps: Inspired by Nature, Build A Blossom

Colors: Pretty in Pink, Certainly Celery, So Saffron, Whisper White, Black Stazon

Accessories: Brayer, Blossoms Petal Punch, Hemp Twine, Antique Designer Brads, Scallop Border Punch, Big Shot, Beautiful Butterflies Stampin' Up! Bigz Die

Faux Mother of Pearl Series--Part 1 of 3

2011-07-06T08:00:00.007-05:00

My monthly stamping club does three projects each month focusing on a new technique. A few months back, we did Faux Mother of Pearl. It is technique that gives a pearl shine to the project. Many times this technique is used in the backgrounds and sadly photos just don't do this technicque the justice it deserves.
The first project in the series was a birthday card. The Faux Mother of Pearl technique was used on the background paper. The cupcakes were stamped onto scrap paper and punched out with the Cupcake punch. A few dimensionals and they really jump off the card. The pom pom trim was in the Occassions Mini and is sadly not available right now, but Stampin' Up! has a lot of brand new ribbons that they just added to the New 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog. Check them out HERE.

To learn techniques like the faux Mother of Pearl, consider hosting your own workshop with family and friends or joining my stamp club.

Products Used:

Stamps: Create-A-Cupcake

Colors: Daffodil Delight, Melon Mambo, Tangerine Tango, Whisper White, Early Espresso

Accessories: Melon Mambo Pom Pom Trim, Frost White Shimmer Paint, Cupcake Punch, Stampin' Spounges, Dimensionals

You can view the entire current Stampin' Up! Catalog or order products online 24/7 at My Stampin' Up! Website.

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-04T14:21:00.008-05:00

Happy Independence Day everyone!
Our church has been doing special things for all of our parishioners who reside at the Veterans Center the last couple weeks. Some people have been asked to visit them, others to make cards, others to say a special prayer or dedicate a mass service to them. We randomly drew names from a basket with what task to do.

Wouldn't you know it, my task was to make our veteran a card. I made this card today in honor of the 4th of July for our veteran. My husband took our oldest to the Veteran Center to deliver the card and visit another member we also selected from the basket. The technique used on the card background is inlaid embossing. This is done with the Big Shot and an embossing folder.

Products Used:
Stamps: Land of the Free (Summer mini catalog)
Colors: Night of Navy, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White, Confetti White (Card Base)
Accessories: White Wide Grosgrain Ribbon (Retired), Big Shot, Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Star Punch (retired)

You can view all the current Stampin' Up! Catalogs and place orders online 24/7 at My Stampin' Up! Website.

Thanks for viewing my blog today and to all our service men and women for their dedicated service to our country.

New Catalog Open House & Garage Sale

2011-07-01T14:35:00.003-05:00

It is here. It is available. The New 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog. The catalog can be viewed online starting today at my Stampin' Up! Website. You can also contact me on how to receive your very own copy.

I am hosting an Open House/Garage Sale on July 16th from 11:00-1:00 (10:00 start time for my past hostesses). I have lots of retired stamps that need new homes. For one day and one day only, I am offering them in a Buy One Get One format. Purchase products from the new catalog at the event and receive equal value of my retired stamps for FREE! No need to choose from new or retired products--get them both at this event. I have several stamp sets that have been retired for more than a year. As an added bonus they will be discounted from their original value, so you can get even more for your purchase.

A Make-N-Take and light lunch will be provided. Everyone will also go home with a copy of the New 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog.

This is a one time event. After July 16th, my retired items will only be available for sale. A list of my remaining retired stamps will be posted here shortly after the event for purchase by mail.

NEW Stamp Set of the Month Program

2011-07-01T13:15:00.003-05:00

Introducing the NEW Stamp Set of the Month Program

July 2011 Stamp Set of the Month: "My Friend"

Accessory of the Month: Mini Library Clips

When you order the July “Stamp Set of the Month” Bundle, you’ll get a kit containing all of the precut pieces needed to make 6 of the cards shown above for FREE! Additionally, you’ll be e-mailed a PDF File that contains step-by-step instructions on how to make the card shown above along with 3 BONUS designs for creative inspiration on other things that can be done with the featured stamp set so you can see it’s versatility and get the most bang for the buck! Supply Lists are included for the bonus designs, but not instructions.

Want more precut pieces? No problem! When you order the Stamp Set of the Month Bundle, you can order additional quantities of precut cardstock pieces in increments of 6 so that you can make as many as you want to have on hand!

July Stamp Set of the Month WOOD Bundle: $40.90 + Shipping and Tax
(Includes your order for the “My Friend” stamp set in wood mount and 1 package of Mini Library Clips plus the FREE kit) Shipping for Kit Out of Town Additional $2.00

July Stamp Set of the Month CLEAR Bundle: $32.90 + Shipping and Tax
(Includes your order the “My Friend” stamp set in clear mount and 1 package of Mini Library Clips plus the FREE kit) Shipping for Kit Out of Town Additional $2.00

Additional Quantities of the July Kit: $6 + Shipping for every set of 6 cards

Already have the featured Stamp Set or Accessory? No problem. You can order any stamp set and/or accessory of equal value to the featured items and still receive the FREE kit and PDF File!

Other supplies you’ll want to order: Pear Pizzazz, Rich Razzleberry, Soft Suede and Night of Navy Classic Ink; 2 ½” Circle Punch, Medium White Envelopes, SNAIL Adhesive and Bone Folder.

Contact Kathleen Brill-Myrice to Order Today!

Shake, Shake, Shake

2011-01-27T09:00:00.000-06:00

Who doesn't love an interactive card? Shaker cards are fun to give and receive and easy to make once you understand the concept.

First, choose the best filler material. Be sure to use something that is not too big (it will get stuck between the layers) or too small (it will fall out any gaps and stick to the adhesive easily). Fake snow does NOT work well. Though great in an ornament, there is not enough weight to it for a shaker card. I used some small beads I had left over from an old project.

Next, proper adhesive. You will need something to create space between the cover and the back. I used foam adhesive found in the household area of my local grocery store. It should be sticky on the top and bottom, but NOT the sides. I buy mine in a width of 1/4" and depth of about 1/8" It can be cut it into two smaller strips when necessary.

The base of the card is Real Red. I stamped "Dasher" #116816 and the sentiment from "Four the Holidays" #116921 onto a piece of Whisper White and attached it to the front of the card. It is difficult to see in the photo, but he has some small Rhinestones #119246 on his antlers. I cut the Top Note Die #113463 from a piece of Chocolate Chip cardstock, then adhered a piece of window sheet behind the top note frame with some regular snail adhesive. I tied a piece of Satin Ribbon around the frame to dress it up a little. To create the shaker area, I put foam adhesive around the entire boarder of the card. Be sure to not leave any gaps or the filler material can come out. After I had the foam in place, I peeled the backing off and put the top note window frame on top.

Did this make sence, but you would love to see it in person? Contact me today to book your own workshop and I will show you and your friends how to make a shaker card. Book a workshop during Sale-A-Bration (now till March 31, 2011) and take advantage of the added benifits of this great promotion.

Peace & Joy & Love & Cheer

2011-01-26T09:53:00.006-06:00

I am waiting on the delivery of my Sale-A-Bration order and will have all sorts of new things to show you soon. Till then I have a few more holiday projects that I didn't post yet. This is the scrapbook page we did at stamp club in December. It is so clean and simple. I just love it. It is perfect for the family photo.

The words are from the "Join in the Cheer" sizzlit decorative strip die #113452. It is a long thin die and cuts all the words at once. I ran it through several times with Real Red, Old Olive, and Basic Black. Then with some strategic cutting I pieced it together in multiple colors with a two way glue pen. The scallop ribbon at the bottom is actually 5/8" Grosgrain. I put it on a piece of adhesive paper and then ran it through the Big Shot with the Tasteful Trim Bigz XL Die #120893. This die was featured in the Winter Mini Catalog, but is still available as a carry over item this season. I then added a few pearl accents to the ribbon.

The ornaments are from one of my favorite holiday stamp sets...."Tree Trimmings" #116722. I stamped them in Real Red and Old Olive Classic Ink, cut them out and put them on dimentionals. I stamped the bowed string from the stamp set and then drew a line with my Stampin' Write Marker to the top of the page. The layout is displayed in a shadow box I got at my local craft store.

You can Order Stampin' Up! Products 24/7 at My Stampin' Up! Website. For every $50 in product you order from now till March 31, 2011 you can select a FREE Sale-A-Bration item found in the SAB catalog. You can download the catalog HERE or contact me to receive your own copy.

Great Time to Join Stampin' Up!

2011-01-25T00:02:00.002-06:00

Would you like to:
* Earn Free Stamps and Supplies?
* Get a Discount on all Stampin' Up! orders?
* Earn some extra money?
* Be a part of my downline group with group gatherings for techniques and tips?
* Purchase all the new stuff before all of your customers?
* Get 15% off your starter kit?
* Get a Special Product Bundle Free, worth over $50?

Now is the time to join the Stampin' Up! family. Stampin' Up! is offering the starter kit at a 15% discount (normally $175) during Sale-A-Bration (January 25-March 31). Then they have added a special bonus bundle of over $50 in free products.

The special bonus bundle includes:
#121620 Color Coach
#120806 Something Special Simply Sent Kit
#117114 Live, Laugh, Love Stamp Set
#119883 Heart to Heart Punch

As always, the starter kit and bonus bundle are completely customizable. Many of the items can be replaced for equal or lesser value products. You will enjoy all of the regular benefits of being a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator........30% off your first order (within 45 days of joining), 20% of all orders, a monthly SU! demonstrator magazine "Stampin' Success", and access to the Stampin' Connection website with countless ideas.

CONTACT ME TODAY so I can tell you all the wonderful things about being a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator. You can sign-up 24/7 at My Stampin' Up! website. Simply click "Start Your Own Business" in the upper right corner. Then "Join Now" on the left hand side. By signing up online, you will receive your demonstrator ID# within 30 minutes and be ready to place your first order.

It's Sale-A-Bration time!!

2011-01-25T00:01:00.002-06:00

It is time for Stampin' Up! most popular promotion of the year. What makes it so popular?

FREE STUFF!!

It's simple place an order for $50 worth of Stampin' Up! product and receive a FREE Sale-A-Bration item. This year Stampin' Up! has 8 exclusive. There are 4 stamp sets, a Designer Paper Series collection, an Accessory Pack (buttons & ribbon), a Chalkboard Decor Element, and a DIGITAL CD of exclusive content. Exclusive SAB items can be found in the SAB catalog. If you do not already have a copy, you can download it here.

Sale-A-Bration runs from today thru March 31, 2011.

What if I want more than one of the items? Easy. Order more of the fabulous products from Stampin' Up! You will receive one SAB items for every $50 in SU! product you order during the promotion. Order $100 and receive two SAB items.

DOUBLE BONUS: Order $150 (by yourself or with the help of friends) and receive three SAB items as well as hostess benifits. You will receive a Level 1 Hostess Stamp Set and $15 in Free Stampin' Up! Products. The more you buy the more free stuff you get. You can even get a bonus FREE SAB item for collecting $300 worth of orders from your friends. Contact me for more details and a catalog to pass around to everyone.

How do I place an order? You can place an order through any Stampin' Up! Demonstrator. You can order online 24/7 by clicking "shop now" in the upper right hand corner of My Stampin' Up! Website.

Fortune Teller Treat Basket

2011-01-22T09:00:00.000-06:00

Oh My Goodness! This is the cutest thing ever. I saw a tutorial on how to make this on the Stampin' Up! YouTube Channel. It is made from one of those little fortune teller things we used as kids. You work them with your fingers and people pick the numbers, so you can tell them their fortune. Well if you turn it upside down it makes the cutest little basket. It can hold a small number of jelly beans, M&M's or your favorite tiny candy.

We made these at Stamping Club as our 3-D item this month. Everyone got to select their color from the Hostess Level 1 Print Pack. It is a 6x6 pack of Designer Paper in this years In Colors. You can earn one for FREE with a $150 workshop. For more information, contact me today. We made the handle with the Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch (#119275). The tiny tag is from the stamp set "Tiny Tags" (#118091 Wood-recommended, #118592 Clear). The images in the stamp set are very tiny, so I recommend getting this stamp set in wood mount, so you don't loose the images easily. It is stamped on Whisper White cardstock and punched with the Jewlery Tag Punch (#117190). A scrap of grosgrain ribbon and linen thread and done.

Stamp Club Valentine Scrapbook Page

2011-01-21T09:00:00.000-06:00

Each month my Stamping Club makes one card, one 12x12 scrapbook page and one 3-D item. I showed you the card yesterday and the 3-D item will be posted tomorrow. That leaves the scrapbook page for today.

This month's scrapbook page featured the Lots of Love Letterpress Plate found in the Winter and Occasions Mini Catalog. It is best used with watercolor paper, but I have gotten good results with the naturals cardstock shown here. The Letterpress Plates give a DEBOSSED image. This means the image is pressed into the cardstock, as opposed to am embossed image where you raise the cardstock image.

TIPS: When using the Letterpress Plates it is advised that you use a clean cutting plate. This is because the plate will press into the cardstock to make the impression. If the cutting plate has a lot of scratches on it from previous cutting, they could transfer to the debossed image. Since the naturals cardstock is thinner than the advised watercolor paper, I placed a shim of cardstock between my project paper and the cutting plate. The sandwhich I used is (from the bottom up)...multi purpose platform, Letterpress Plate, project cardstock (face down), cardstock shim, clear cutting plate.

The letterpress plates are also best used with Craft Ink. You can use the Stampin' Spots to single out small areas. To cover the entire plate you may wish to make your own large craft pad with a Craft Ink refill and an uninked stamp pad. Since the craft ink dries slower, you have time to transfer the ink from the letterpress plate to the project. All of the areas without ink will still deboss into the cardstock. The decoration in the close up photo was made with two scallop circles. To learn how to make these easy accents, consider hosting your own workshop or joining my Stampin' Up! Team. They can be made in several sizes and have a limitless number of uses.

The bottom of the page features a Pinking Hearts Border Punch and an Extra-Large Tag Punch. The stamps used are from the "XOXO" stamp set found in the Occasions Mini Catalog.

Products Used:

Stamps: XOXO(#121909 Wood, #121973 Clear)

Cardstock: Natural White, Pretty in Pink, Rose Red

Ink: Rose Red, Pretty in Pink

Accessories: Big Shot, Lots of Love Letterpress Plate (#120983), Extra-Large Tag Punch (#119866), Scallop Circle Punch (#119854), 1-3/8" Circle Punch (#119860), Pretty in Pink Satin Ribbon (#117289), Dimentionals (#104430), 3/4" Circle Punch (#119873), Small Heart Punch (#117193), Bone Folder (#102300), Pinking Hearts Border Punch ((#117649)

Greeting Card Kids Valentine

2011-01-20T09:00:00.001-06:00

"Greeting Card Kids" immediately caught my eye when I looked through the catalog back in July. I purchased it right away. I have used it a few times, but have been waiting for now to use my favorite image in the set, the little girl holding a heart.

The New Occasions Mini Catalog caught me by surprise. I was so wrapped up in Christmas events, I didn't get much of a chance to look through it. Then I had a few moments to look through the Occasions Mini Blog Hop put on by some friends at Stampin' Addicts. Over and over I would see this FABULOUS embossing folder, the "Framed Tulip". I had to have it right away, and knew just what stamp set I wanted to use. It was time to pull out the little girl holding a heart.
We made this card for Stamping Club this month. The image is stamped in Stazon Black and colored in with Stampin' Write Markers. The Satin Ribbon is folded back and forth and held in place with some mini glue dots. The button can be found in the Bitty Buttons Collection.
You can order products online 24/7 at My Stampin' Up! Website. Simple click "Shop Now" in the upper right hand corner. Contact me to gather some of your friends and host a workshop of your own with projects themed for the current season.

Products Used:

Stamps: Greeting Card Kids (#119887 Wood, #120633 Clear)

Cardstock: Real Red, Pretty in Pink, Whisper White

Ink: Stazon Black, Stampin' Write Markers

Accessories: Framed Tulip Embossing Folder (#121809) , Big Shot, Pretty in Pink Satin Ribbon, Mini Glue Dots, Linen Thread, Bitty Buttons (#118761)

It's All About The CANDY!!

2011-01-19T09:00:00.001-06:00

I love making all sorts of projects throughout the year, but for the craft fairs at Christmas time it 's All About The CANDY! These are 3 of my favorites from this year, then tomorrow I promiss to show you something for the current season.
The first has been very popular with many stampers this year. Pretzel stick bags are perfect for holding a row of M&M's or Skittle Candy. I got some twist ties to put at the top of mine and attached a simple tag made with the "Tags for Christmas" Stamp Set from the Holiday Mini. I really hope they bring this one back in the main Idea Book & Catalog next year. It has so many uses and cute sayings. Each stamp in the set fits perfectly into one of the Stampin' Up! punches.

The second project is a long time favorite, the peppermint patty. Though the circle wrapped patties are harder to find each year, they are perfect for this quick project. The images are all from the Jingle Bits stamp set. It was featured in the Holiday Mini and SU! has already told us it will be arround next year. Jingle Bits has a companion stamp set, a bingo board. I didn't get the bingo board this year, but have found many uses for these little images. I put one scallop circle on each side of the peppermint patty. I found some cute bags online to perfectly fit three of them with a quick twist tie and simple tag.

The last project today is for a real chocolate lover. I found the tutorial for this project on SplitCoastStampers. It is called the Matchbox Holder. One piece of Ghirardelli Chocolate fits wonderfully inside. These did take a little more time than the first two projects today, but were a favorite of people needing the perfect co-worker secret santa daily gift.

Many of the other projects I made this year were similar to last year. You can click on Craft Fair in the side menu to view them all.

If you are interested in learning how to make any of these projects, contact me. We can plan a workshop for you and your friends. We will make treats themed for the upcoming season.

Behind on Christmas Postings

2011-01-18T11:53:00.008-06:00

I have some new things to show you later this week. Before the season is completely forgotten, I wanted to show a few of the items I made for my Christmas Craft Fair last month. Thank you to all those who came by my booth. I had a great time meeting all of you. Classes and workshops are available. For those interested contact me or view my calendar at http://www.fastamper.stampinup.net/

The first project is a Magnetic Tear-Off Calendar. I got these calendars online from a printer. They tear off to reveal the next month for the entire year. I glued some Designer Papers from my retired stash to the front of several 4 inch coasters. I then sanded the edges and added some Satin Ribbon to the top before putting on the calendar. There is a strip of magnet on the back so it can be displayed on your refridgerator or other quick view place.

Products Used:

Stamps: None

Cardstock: Various Retired Designer Series Papers

Ink: None

Accessories: Anywhere Glue Stick, Satin Ribbon (Various Colors), Snail Adhesive, Sanding Block, Magnet Sheets

As many of you know, I am in love with my Big Shot Die Cutting Machine. The Candy Wrapper Die quickly became one of my favorites. It is so fast to make candy boxes. It cuts the shape and scores the fold lines all at one time. A couple pieces of sticky strip and you are done. I tied some 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon to the ends of mine and added a little tag from the Delightful Decorations Stamp Set. The box holds about 6-8 hershey kisses or other small candies. I put a few pieces of Candy Cane Designer Series Paper on the sides of the boxes. After the craft fair was over I changed out the tag for snowflakes and hearts to make quick treats for some friends at church.

The Candy Wrapper Die is still available for purchase. It is on the carryover list of items from the Holiday Mini Catalog. Ask me or your demonstrator for more details.

Products Used:

Stamps: Delightful Decorations (#116517)

Cardstock: Real Red, Pretty in Pink, Bashful Blue, Wild Wasabi, Candy Cane Designer Series Paper, Whisper White

Ink: Same as cardstock colors

Accessories: Ornament Punch, 1/8" Real Red Taffeta Ribbon(#119251), Sticky Strip, Big Shot Die Cutting Machine, Candy Wrapper Die (#120890), Silver Cord (retired)

Vintage Vogue Birthday

2010-10-20T10:57:00.004-05:00

I have been asked to make the birthday cards for the ladies in my church group this year. These ladies are older and I wanted something classy for them. I was looking for some fresh ideas when I came across this card on Laurie Zoellmer's blog. It was perfect. I changed up the colors a little and switched out the sentiment to suit my need. I also expanded the front panel to full size. I made 5 of these for the ladies with a September birthday in no time. I am also working on remembering to stamp the envelope.

PRODUCTS USED:

Stamps: Vintage Vouge, Sincere Salutations

Colors: Rose Red, Pretty in Pink, Old Olive, Basic Black

Accessories: Paper Snips, Dimensionals, Rhinstone Brad

ABC's of a Perfect Handmade Holiday

2010-10-19T19:08:00.005-05:00

Stampin' Up! has started their newest promotion. They have bundled a number of our wonderful Holiday Products for 20% off Prefered Pricing.

Contact me or go online 24/7 HERE to place an order for any of these bundles. This special runs until December 16th. Order now to make your own holiday products. Ask me about Gift Wrapping to give a special bundle to your special stamper.

You can view (or print) the flyer HERE>

Vintage Christmas Card Bundle

Bells & Boughs Set & Deck the Halls Designer Series Paper
Wood Mount #124067 $23.92
Clear Mount #124068 $19.92

(Spanish) Tradiciones Navideñas Set & Deck the Halls Designer Series Paper
Wood Mount #124069 $23.92
Clear Mount #124070 $19.92

Contempo Christmas Card Bundle

Contempo Christmas Set & Jolly Holiday Designer Series Paper
Wood Mount #124071 $20.72
Clear Mount #124072 $17.52

(French) Noël contemporain Set & Jolly Holiday Designer Series Paper
Wood Mount #124073 $20.72
Clear Mount #124074 $17.52

Tags til Christmas Bundle

Tags til Christmas Set & Decorative Label Punch
Wood Mount #124077 $38.32
Clear Mount #124078 $31.92

(Spanish) Mensajes Navideños Set & Decorative Label Punch
Wood mount #124079 $38.32
Clear Mount # 124080 $31.92

(French) En attendant Noël Set & Decorative Label Punch
Wood Mount #124081 $38.32
Clear Mount #124082 $31.92

Gift Packaging Bundle

Gifted Set & Mini Lunch Sacks
Wood Mount #124083 $26.32
Clear Mount #124084 $19.92

(French) Des cadeaux! Set & Mini Lunch Sacks
Wood Mount #124085 $26.32
Clear Mount #124086 $19.92

Simply Adorned Gift Bundle

Charming Set & Simply Adorned 1" x 1-1/4" Charm Simply Adorned 24" Chain
Only Available in Wood Mount #124076 $39.88

Non-Stamp Set Bundle --Frame Gift Bundle

Definitely Decorative Chunky Frame & Small Chocolate Chip Dotted Flourish Décor Elements #124075 $19.92

Clearance Rack BLITZ

2010-10-05T17:16:00.002-05:00

Stampin' Up! has started a great promotion today. SU! has placed over 200 items in their clearance rack for up to 80% off from now till October 18th. There are some FABULOUS items there. These Items can only be ordered online and not at a regular workshop. They are also available while supplies last only.
BONUS INCENTIVE: I will place your name in a drawing for every $30 in product you order online from me between now and October 18th. On October 19th I will select from those names. The winner will receive a voucher for $10 of Current SU! Merchandise from me. I will draw 1 name for every 5 names in the hat.

The more you order, the more chances you have to win. The more people who order the more prizes I will give away, so tell your friends. Be sure you are ordering from My Demonstrator Website to be entered into the drawing. Kathleen Brill should appear in the upper right corner of the ordering page.

Orders over $150 will also receive hostess benefits according to SU! Hostess Benefit Program. Those benifits will be selected online when you place the order. You will also receive 5 entries into my drawing.

CLICK HERE TO PLACE YOUR ORDER NOW

October Bonus Card Kit

2010-09-30T10:38:00.006-05:00

Featured Set: “Welcome Christmas” and Featured Accessory: Rhinestone Jewels
Featured Stamp Set for the YEAR: Teeny Tiny Wishes

October Bonus: There are two card kits to select from this month. To view the other one click HERE.

Why Card Kits?

Card Kits are the Stamping Classes that come right to your door! You’ll receive the supplies to create SIX of EACH design shown here – that means all of the consumable supplies that you need to create 12 cards total. You will also receive 2 additional full color photographs of “alternative” cards that you can make with the combined contents of the kit! In addition, you’ll receive detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to complete each of the 4 designs. This month’s card kit items are listed below, and the price of the Card Kit is just $20 – that’s less than $1.70 per card!!

Card Kit Order Deadline is by October 10th. You will receive your kits at the end of the month.
Special Offer for October! Purchase the Card Kit and receive “Welcome Christmas” and the Featured Accessory, “Rhinestone Jewels” at 20% off!

The Card Kit ($20) Includes:
Cut Cardstock Pieces
Cut Ribbon Pieces
12 –Very Vanilla Envelopes
Step by Step Instructions to complete 4 different card designs using the kit pieces

Add-on Products:
Early Espresso Classic Ink ($5.95)
Old Olive Classic Ink ($5.95)
Boho Blossoms Punch ($16.95)
2 ½” Circle Punch ($16.95)
Teeny Tiny Wishes Stamp Set ($36.95 – discount given on first card kit purchase of the year only – discounted price $29.56)
Welcome Christmas Stamp Set: Wood - ($27.95) $22.36 Clear - ($19.95) $15.96 with the purchase of the Card Kit.
Basic Rhinestone Jewels ($4.95) $3.96 with the purchase of the Card Kit

Other Optional Purchases:
Stampin’ Dimensionals ($3.95)
Mat Pack ($9.95)
Paper Piercer ($3.95)
SNAIL Adhesive ($6.95)
Bone Folder ($6.95)
Paper Snips ($9.95)

Please Note: I am glad to ship kits directly to you! There is a $3.50 shipping charge.

Contact me today to order your Card Kit Today!
Kathleen Brill-Myrice
Fa_stamper@sbcglobal.net

October Card Kit

2010-09-30T10:29:00.008-05:00

Featured Set: “A Cute Little Christmas” and Featured Accessory: Candy Cane Buttons
Featured Stamp Set for the YEAR: Teeny Tiny Wishes

OCTOBER BONUS KIT--There are two kits to select from this month. Click HERE to view the other one.

Why Card Kits?

Card Kits are the Stamping Classes that come right to your door! You’ll receive the supplies to create SIX of EACH design shown here – that means all of the consumable supplies that you need to create 12 cards total. You will also receive 2 additional full color photographs of “alternative” cards that you can make with the combined contents of the kit! In addition, you’ll receive detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to complete each of the 4 designs. This month’s card kit items are listed below, and the price of the Card Kit is just $20 – that’s less than $1.70 per card!!

Card Kit Order Deadline is by October 10th. You will receive your kits at the end of the month.
Special Offer for October! Purchase the Card Kit and receive “A Cute Christmas” and the Featured Accessory, “Candy Cane Buttons” at 20% off!

The Card Kit ($20) Includes:
Cut Cardstock Pieces
Cut Designer Paper Pieces (Note: Prints will vary from kit to kit within the “Candy Cane Christmas” Pack)
Cut Ribbon Pieces
12 – Whisper White Envelopes
Step by Step Instructions to complete 4 different card designs using the kit pieces

Add-on Products:
Basic Black Classic Ink ($5.95)
Garden Green Stampin’ Write Marker ($3.50)
Real Red Stampin’ Write Marker ($3.50)
Baja Breeze Stampin’ Write Marker ($3.50)
In Color Stampin’ Write Markers ($14.95)
Teeny Tiny Wishes Stamp Set ($36.95 – discount given on first card kit purchase of the year only – discounted price $29.56)
A Cute Christmas Stamp Set: Wood - ($25.95) $20.76 Clear - ($18.95) $15.16 with the purchase of the Card Kit.
Candy Cane Designer Buttons ($8.95) $7.16 with the purchase of the Card Kit

Other Optional Purchases:
Stampin’ Dimensionals ($3.95)
SNAIL Adhesive ($6.95)
Mini Glue Dots ($4.95)
Bone Folder ($6.95)
Paper Snips ($9.95)

Please Note: I am glad to ship kits directly to you! There is a $3.50 shipping charge.

Contact me today to order your Card Kit Today!
Kathleen Brill-Myrice
Fa_stamper@sbcglobal.net

Blog Candy Winner!

2010-09-25T09:09:00.002-05:00

Thanks to everyone who entered to win my blog candy.

And the WINNER is..............

PaperFairyFris--Please contact me by 9:15 am on Sunday or a new winner will be drawn.

You can email me at fa_stamper@sbcglobal.net

Demonstrator Opportunity-Craft Tote Promotion

2010-09-24T09:43:00.004-05:00

If you have even briefly thought about becoming a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator, now is the time to join.

The Greenhouse Gala Craft Tote Tote-ally ROCKS! It is large and will fit all the products you get with the starter kit. The stamps, the cardstock, the ink pads, and all the accessories. If you select the add-on kit it will also hold the 12x12 paper and when the time comes a paper cutter.

It is a $39.95 value and you get one for FREE by signing up to be a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator between now and October 18th.

The starter kit is only $175 and you get everything you need to start a thriving business or just gather supplies for a new hobby. There is no obligation to keep the items in the starter kit after you purchase it. However, there are plenty of incentives to continue with a wonderful company.

For all the details about being a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator contact me today. I will be happy to get you started with the Stampin' Up! Opportunity.

Halloween Projects

2010-09-24T09:30:00.002-05:00

LAST DAY TO ENTER BLOG CANDY. I will have my darling daughter pull the winner after school today.
Yesterday I showed you the scrapbook page we did at stamp club this month. Today I have the card and one of the 3-D items we made.

The card is a combination of two great cards from Lynn Pratt. Again, I wanted to show a cute way to use the owl punch. I used the main part of the owl body, then added wings. The wings is the bitty bat punch cut in half. The little bats are the bitty bat punch themselves. The eyes on the little bats are the smallest circles from the owl punch. I then used a Stampin' Write Marker to dot the center of the eye. The tombstones are done with the NEW Decorative Label Punch in the Winter Mini Catalog. I spounged the edges and drew on sone cracks with a Stampin' Write Marker. It is hard to see in the photo. The grass was torn and then cut to give it a more realistic look. The tree branch was hand cut. I stamped the woodgrain background onto it in a darker shade and then edged the branch with a Stampin' Write Marker.
TIP: I inked up the woodgrain stamp. Layed the stamp on my desk (stamp side up), put the cardstock onto the stamp and pressed down with my fingers. This helped to ensure I got the swirl part of the image where I wanted it.
The 3-D item shown is one of two we made that day. We also made the Web Luminary from the Blog Hop a few weeks back. Click here to see the luminary. The NEW Candy Wrapper Die from the Winter Mini catalog is so easy to use. Simply cut with the Big Shot, fold, fill with candy and tie shut. You only need a small piece of sticky strip to hold the candy wrapper shut. I also put a small piece of sticky strip on the back of the tag to hold it where I wanted it to be.

Products Used:
STAMPS: Woodgrain Background (#117100), Got Treats? (W-#119114, C-#120627)

CARDSTOCK: Pumpkin Pie, Not Quite Navy, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Basic Black, Basic Gray, Old Olive, Rich Razzleberry, Wicked Fun Specialty DSP (#117400)

INK: Stampin' Write Markers (Basic Black, Early Espresso, Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Rich Razzleberry), Classic Ink (Basic Black, Early Espresso)

PUNCHES: Two step owl (#118274), Bitty Bat (#119279), 1-3/8" Circle, Decorative Label, 2-3/8" Scallop Circle (#118874), 1-3/4" Circle

OTHER: Big Shot, Candy Wrapper Die (#120890), Raven Lace Trim (#120988), Paper Snips, Sticky Strip

Spooks-Scrapbook Page

2010-09-23T10:30:00.002-05:00

Before we get started with todays project, don't forget to enter my BLOG CANDY. The winner will be drawn on Friday night.
This is the scrapbook page we made at stamping club last weekend. I placed it in a shadowbox frame I got at the local craft store. Below you will find a couple tips for the techniques on this page.
The scrapbook page is 12x12. I wanted to incorporate a few things I have learned recently. I have had a lot of fun working with the Web Embossing Folder. I was having some problems figuring out how to use it on a scrapbook page. My problem is that it is only the size of a card front. I didn't want to have a web that led to nowhere. To solve the probem, I cut the black cardstock into two pieces. The original design was going to follow a somewhat progressive page layout, so the black piece was 8-1/2 x 11. I decided it would be better as a more square shape. Instead of going with an 8-1/2 by 8-1/2, I compensated for the extra gap between the two halves and cut it 9 x 8-1/2. Then cut in half at 4-1/4". This way I could emboss one portion of the area with the embossing folder and feel like the web didn't stop abruptly. To make the web stand out a little more, and have a shimmer to it I coated it with some shimmer paint.
TIP #1: To coat the web with shimmer paint, I used a spounge dauber. I first dabbed the paint onto my scrap paper then onto my web area. Don't dab too hard or you will get circle marks from the dauber. You could try a spounge, but I felt like it covered to much area for me and I didn't have enough control. By dabbing it on the scrap paper first it help to tone down the paint. It is always easy to add more, but once it is there you are stuck with it. I did want more in the center of the web.
To make the moon is simple. I punched out a 2-1/2" Circle with the new punch in the Winter Mini Catalog. Then using a stampin' spounge I added some Daffodil Delight Classic Ink to the edges. The bats were punched with the bat punch. In retrospect they should be on dimensionals.
The ghosts are one of my favorite things that creative demos have come up with. It is actually the owl punch upside down and his feet cut off. I punched a couple of eye holes with my crop-a-dile and then put a scrap of black behind his head to show through the eyes. I also love to use my wheels when I get a chance, so there is a strip of the Web Stampin' Around Wheel at the top of the 6x6 area.
TIP #2: This has to do with the title letters. I made them with my Big Shot and Timeless Type Junior Alphabet. Whichever print you want to show on our page, needs to face the die when you cut the letters out. Personally, I cut with my die facing up. It makes it easier to place my scraps of cardstock on the area I want to cut. So the design I want to show on my projects, must go down on my die.

Products Used:

Stamps: Web Stampin' Around Wheel (#115666)

Ink: Daffodil Delight (#119667), Black Stampin' Around Cartridge (#104581), Platinum Shimmer Paint (#116807)

Cardstock: 12x12 Old Olive (#119934), Basic Black (#121045), Rich Razzleberry (#115316), Cajun Craze (#119684), Whisper White (#100730), Wicked Fun Specialty Designer Series Paper (#117400)

Accessories: Timeless Type Junior Alphabet (#115951), Raven Lace Trim (#120988), Bitty Bat Punch (#119279), Two Step Owl Punch (#118074), Web Embossing Folder (#120889), Spounge Daubers (#102892), Stampin' Spounges (#101610)

74cent- Just a Note

2010-09-22T13:27:00.006-05:00

I need to pass a quick note to my son's teacher the other week. Of course it would have been too simple to just scribble it on a piece of paper and put in his backback. So I ran to my craft room, grabbed some Stampin' Write Markers, a couple pieces of cardstock and my "Hello Again" Stamp Set.

Cards do not have to cost tons of money or have lots of bling to be perfect. This is a simple matted card. No fancy layers, no punches, no cutting.....just ink, stamp and send. I colored directly on the stamp with the In Color Stampin' Write Markers. I then "huffed" hot air onto the stamp and stamped onto the Confetti White Cardstock. This is fast and simple to do. It is also a great way to use different colors on one stamp image.

You can always purchase each individual Stampin' Up! Color in Ink, Cardstock, Markers and re-inkers. You can also purchase then in Color Collections. Both Pear Pizzazz and Blushing Bride are in the 2010-2012 In Color Collection. You can purchase the variety pack of cardstock (#119797, $6.95), containing 4 sheets of each of the 5 In Colors for 2010-2012. Then mix and match the cardstock to create over 26 cards in this design. If you use the Confetti White cardstock as your base color you can make over 60 cards with $44.35 in product. That is only 74cents per card.

Order products online 24/7/365 at My Stampin' Up! Website. Or contact me today to schedule your own workshop so all of your friends can learn how to make cards for under $1.00 each.

BLOG CANDY--Don't miss this post for your chance to win FREE STUFF>

PRODUCTS USED:
Stamps: Hello Again (Pictured Here)(#113780, $12.95)

Cardstock: Pear Pizzazz(#119795, $6.95), Blushing Bride(#119796, $6.95), Confetti White (#102028, $9.50)

Ink: 2010-2012 In Color Stampin' Write Markers (#119801, $14.95)

Club Card--Hello Baby

2010-09-21T09:00:00.001-05:00

It is always a good idea to have a baby card in your file, just in case. This is the card we made at stamp club last month for that very reason. Members could choose between making a boy or girl card. For more information on stamp club contact me.

Since Stampin' Up! only offers most ribbon in 13 of the 45 colors, we learned how to die the white taffetta ribbon to match any color in the SU! spectrum. We also learned how to color with the Watercolor Pencils. To give the card a simple twist, we made it into an easel card. This is simple to do and requires only an extra piece of cardstock for the front and something on the inside to help it stand up.

Don't miss out on a chance for the blog candy I have this week. Check out yesterdays post for more details.

BLOG CANDY

2010-09-20T09:00:00.000-05:00

I wanted to take a moment to thank all of my wonderful followers. Thanks to you and the Stampin' Addicts Winter Mini Blog Hop I have surpassed a milestone....... 10,000 hits (and climbing). To show my appreciation to all of you I am offering this BLOG CANDY.

Winning is simple.....leave me message. Tell me what you have enjoyed or even what you would like to see more of. Just type something. On Friday, Sept. 24th, I will put all of the comments into a hat a have my darling daughter pull one out. The winner will be announced on Saturday and receive everything shown in the photo. There are two retired hostess stamp sets (Punches Three & Patterned Pines), 3-1/2 yards of Wild Wassabi Stripped Ribbon and a new package of Real Red Bead Duos.

Be sure to check back as the winner only has 24 hours to contact me, then a new name will be drawn.

Don't miss out on future posts.....subscribe to my blog today.

Back to School

2010-09-19T09:00:00.002-05:00

Each month I have a wonderful group of ladies that gathers for my stamp club. We make a variety of projects each month. Generally we make a card, a scrapbook page and a 3-D item of some sort. With school is in full swing everywhere I thought it would be a nice focus for our scrapbook page last month.

I LOVE the new Owl Punch. He is fun to dress up and soooo easy to use. The Designer Series Paper on his chest is from the Gala Greenhouse collection. It is also used on the strip across the bottom portion. I used it as my inspiration for my color scheme. (Pumpkin Pie, Daffodil Delight, Baja Breeze, Chocolate Chip, Pear Pizzazz, and Real Red) Some of the colors only got little hints in the embelishments I made with the "Beary Bright" Build-A-Bear Sizzlits Die. The journaling block in the lower right corner was first punched with the Spiral Border Punch. I then tour a little off the top and bottom before crumpling it to give it that used notebook paper look.

The simple title was done with the "Rough Type" alphabet from the summer mini catalog. The new clear stamp option made this easy to do. Simply place all the letters on one clear block and then stamp at the same time. Worried that the letters will not line up correctly? Do as I did and stamp them crooked on purpose.

Do you live in the SW Oklahoma area? Are you interested in gathering with friends for a few hours of stamping fun once a month? Contact me to join stamp club. We are always ready to welcome new members. There is no supply fee and you will get a chance at earning the hostess benifits. Contact me for more details. fa_stamper@sbcglobal.net

BLOG CANDY COMING SOON!

Products Used:

Stamps: Rough Type Alphabet

Colors: Pumpkin Pie, Baja Breeze, Pear Pizzazz, Chocolate Chip, Daffodil Delight, Whisper White, Real Red

Accessories: Gala Greenhouse DSP, 2-step Owl Punch, 2-step Bird Punch, Large scallop circle, top note big shot die, spiral punch, Mini Library Clips, Beary Bright Sizzlit, Chocolate Chip Stampin' Write Marker

Stampin' Addicts Winter Mini Blog Hop

2010-08-27T08:31:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the Stampin' Addicts Winter Mini Blog Hop. If you came directly from the Stampin' Addicts Blog Hop Thread you found stop #1. You will be guided through all the stops on the hop by simply following along. This Blog Hop will feature products from the Stampin' Up! Winter Mini Catalog, available to customers Sept. 1, 2010 thru Jan 3, 2011.

If you found us some other way or started in the middle, you just came from Tanya's Blog with some great ideas for the "Filled With Love" Stamp Set, and looped back to the beginning of the Hop.

My Featured Product for the first stop on the hop is the EMBOSSING FOLDERS.

There are two embossing folders in the Winter Mini Catalog. The first is the "Spider Web" Embossing Folder (#120889) found on page 6. I ran the embossing folder through with a piece of Velumn Cardstock (#101856). I turned the velumn over and with a Basic Gray Stampin' Write Marker (#120966) I colored in the groove left by the embossing folder. I attached the velumn to the card with little bits of snail adhesive in the corners. I put the velumn onto Whisper White Cardstock to help the image stand out. The bottom of the card is Basic Gray Cardstock. If you look closely the Basic Black strip at the bottom looks a little fuzzy. Stampin' Up! Cardstock is known for it's durability. This is because the cardstock is actually two halves together that are solid throughout. If you crumple the paper up many times or run it along the side of your table over and over it will break the fibers between the two layers. You can then very gently peal them apart leaving a soft feathered look to the cardstock. I piece of the new Raven 1/2" Lace Trim finishes off the card.

Products Used:

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes (#115730), Batty For You (#116576)

Cardstock: Basic Black, Basic Gray, Whisper White, Velumn Cardstock

Ink: Basic Black Classic Ink, Basic Gray Stampin' Write Marker

Accessories: SPIDER WEB EMBOSSING FOLDER (#120889), Big Shot, Modern Label Punch, Raven 1/2" Lace Trim, Silver Brads, Paper Snips

The next set of projects also features the "Spider Web" Embossing Folder. This time I used the Embossing Folder Like a STAMP. First I cut my Pumpkin Pie Cardstock into the dress shape with the use of the Scallop Circle Die, the Big Shot, and a pair of paper snips. I inked up the raised side of the embossing folder with versamark ink and carefully layed it onto the dress shape. I rubbed on the embossing folder to make sure the ink transfered to the cardstock, then carefully lifted it back up. With Basic Black Embossing Powder I heat embossed the image left by the embossing folder. Since the embossing folders are made of plastic you will not get a perfect stamped image as you do with a rubber stamp. Still, for the web, it works just fine and gives you many more options for using this embossing folder. I love the little spider from the Batty For You Stamp Set. I used him again here. This card is perfect for an invitation to a Halloween costume party. Change the color of the dress or embossing powder and you have a prom dress, Christmas outfit or even a Wedding dress.

The luminary shown with the Invitation Card uses the same technique. This time I stamped the embossing folder onto Velumn Cardstock and heat embossed with Basic Black Powder. The Spider Web was then placed behind a hole I cut in the Basic Black Fancy Favor Box. A simple tea light candle to illuminate the box and presto and easy decoration. Put a pumpkin scented candle and have an October themed way to make your home smell great.

Products Used:

Stamps: Sincere Salutations (#115068), Batty For You (#116576)

Cardstock: Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black, Velumn Cardstock, Whisper White

Ink: Versamark, Basic Black

Accessories: Scallop Circle Die, Big Shot, Basic Black 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, SPIDER WEB EMBOSSING FOLDER (#120889), Scallop Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, Fancy Favor XL Die

The last project I have for you uses the other embossing folder found in the Winter Mini Catalog. It is the "Northern Flurry" Embossing Folder (#120902) found on page 26. The common way to use an embossing folder is as a background to a card. I embossed it the same way as you would with a card, but instead of using the entire embossed image, I cut out the snowflakes with paper snips and various punches. I then sprayed the snowflakes with the Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz (#118772). It is difficult to see in the photo, but the shimmer mist gives them a nice sparkle. For those interested in sizes, each page is 12x12, the large photo mat will fit a 5x7 photo and the smaller ones on the right side page will fit a wallet (2x3).

Products Used:

Cardstock: Pacific Point, Marina Mist, Bashful Blue, Whisper White
Accessories: NORTHERN FLURRY EMBOSSING FOLDER (#120902), Top Note Die, Big Shot, Paper Snips, Circle Punches (3/4", 1", 1-3/8"), Timeless Type Junior Alphabet (#115951), Dimensionals, Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz.

Thank You for stopping in on my blog. I hope you enjoy the Winter Mini Blog Hop this weekend. Please leave your comments of feedback below. Your next stop is Holly's for some great uses for the "Dark & Dreary" Stamp Set.

PREVIOUS BLOG

NEXT BLOG

Winter Mini Sneak Peek

2010-08-26T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Winter Mini Catalog goes live on September 1st. Stampin' Up! has already mailed the mini catalogs out. If you have not received yours in the mail yet, please contact your demonstrator.

I have a quick and simple card for you today. I happen to love the Build-A-Bear line that Stampin' Up! has. Not everyone may have uses for all the bear stamps. The "Season of Hugs" is an accessory stamp set to the original Beary Best Friends Stamp Set. It is also a great set all on it's own. The paw print on several of the items can be used for Dogs or Cats as well.

Here I used just the tree image, the small bulb image and one of the sentiments. I stamped the tree onto Old Olive Cardstock and then colored in portions with a Real Red Stampin' Write marker. The Old Olive somewhat tints the Real Red so it matches the Cherry Cobbler Cardstock used for the base. I cut the tree out and popped it up with some dimensionals. You can use several of the other images in this set for other holidays or occassions without using the bear it was designed to go with.

Products Used:

Stamps: Season of Hugs

Colors: Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso, Old Olive, Naturals White

Accessories: Markers (Real Red, Chocolate Chip (tree trunk), Early Espresso 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Silver Brads, Dimensionals, Paper Snips

Be sure to come back tomorrow for a lot of fun. The Stampin' Addicts Website is hosting a Winter Mini Blog Hop. You will get the chance to see some fabulous uses for many of the products in the Winter Mini Catalog. I will be showcasing the Embossing Folders. I am the first stop on the official Blog Hop, so check back this weekend and have some fun.

Cupcakes Gone Wild

2010-08-19T09:00:00.001-05:00

This card has the same design idea as the Build-A-Bear card from yesterday. The process of masking the center is the same. I showed this sample at the workshop for another idea of cards the guests could make on their own. Again I masked off the center before wheeling the images. Removed the mask and stamped the large cupcake in stazon ink. I also used the watercolor pencils and a blender pen to color in the images. The watercolor pencils give things a nice soft look. You can also shade easily with them.
I encourage you to make your own wheelin' good time card soon.

To order Stampin' Up! Products contact the demonstrator in your area or order online 24/7 by click "Shop Now" in the upper right corner of My Stampin' Up! Website.

Products Used:

Stamps: Crazy for Cupcakes, Cupcakes Wheel

Colors: Black Stazon, Whisper White, Pretty in Pink

Accessories: Watercolor Pencils, Blender Pen

Wheelin' Workshop Make-N-Take

2010-08-18T09:08:00.002-05:00

This is the final card I demonstrated at my Wheelin' Good Time Workshop. It is also the card that everyone got to make and take home. It is a simple concept of masking of the center area before wheeling the image.

TIP: When wheeling a repeated image onto your project it is best to go diagonally with your images. This helps to throw the eye off and will not show flaws in lining it up as easily.

After removing the mask you then stamp the focal image in the center. We used watercolor pencils and a blender pen to color in the Build-A-Bear image. Build-A-Bear Stamps are exclusive to Stampin' Up!. SU! has a full line of BAB stamps and die cuts for the Big Shot covering many holidays and reasons for scrapbooks or cards. When doing this card design I like to then mat the panel onto a colored piece of cardstock for more support. The Whisper White cardstock is slightly lighter than the colored cardstock SU! has. This makes it ideal for stamping images, but not as good for a card base.

Products Used:

Stamps: Beary Best Friends, Paw Tracks Wheel

Colors: Soft Suede, Whisper White, Black Stazon, Chocolate Chip (Wheel Ink)

Accessories: Watercolor Pencils, Blender Pen

Builder Wheels

2010-08-17T09:00:00.000-05:00

The third project I demonstrated at the Wheelin' Good Time Workshop used the new Builder Wheels Stampin' Up! has released. The great part about Builder Wheels is you can use any combination of 1 to 3 wheels for different effects. The only additional item you will need to use builder wheels as opposed to regular wheels is a Builder Wheel Spindle and Spacer Set (#119895, $3.95). The spindle fits into any jumbo wheel handle. You can then use the spacers to place 1 or 2 builder wheels in any position on the handle or use 3 builder wheels all together.

I used 3 Builder Wheels together on my spindle. I used a jumbo ink cartridge with Bashful Blue Ink for my images. I first rolled the wheels onto Bashful Blue Cardstock for a tone on tone effect. Then I rolled the same wheels onto Whisper White Cardstock. I cut out the portion I wanted to use on my card and placed it over top of the Bashful Blue Cardstock image. The wheel image also has the words "You Did It" repeated several times. I cut that portion out and stuck it behind the mated image. For a little something extra I added a rhinstone brad to the main sentiment strip and embossed the front of the card base with the Polka Dot Embossing Folder. This card is FAST & SIMPLE. Try different arrangements of your Builder Wheels for different looks. You can also ink a special cartridge so each wheel has it's own color.

Products Used:

Stamps: Builder Wheels (Striped, Confetti, You Did it)

Colors: Bashful Blue, Crumb Cake, Real Red, Whisper White

Accessories: Rhinstone Brad, Polks Dot Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Jumbo Wheel Handle, Builder Wheel Spindle Set

Emboss Resist Wheel

2010-08-16T09:00:00.001-05:00

Here is the second card I made at the Wheelin' Good Time Workshop. The technique was emboss resist and gave tips for what to do when you don't have an ink cartridge for your handle.

For the emboss resist technique I used versamark. Since I don't have a versamark ink cartridge for my handle, I used my regular sized versamark ink pad. I simply rolled the wheel image across the ink pad several times. I then rolled the image onto the Whisper White cardstock. You can do this with any wheel and ink as long as you don't need the wheel to go around more than once.

I coated the versmark image in clear embossing powder and heated it with my heat tool as you would for any heat embossing. Using a Stampin' Sponge and my ink pads, I sponged ink onto the embossed cardstock. The embossing with resist the ink and only stick to the cardstock itself. You can do this with one color or several colors. You can use several techniques to put the ink onto the cardstock. When you are done, simple use a tissue, cotton ball or clean sponge to remove any excess ink from the embossed image.

The bird image was stamped from the "Punch Potpourri" Stamp Set. This stamp set is a Hostess Level 1 Stamp Set and available to hostesses of a $150 workshop. You can also place an individual $150 order to receive this stamp set. Contact your demonstrator to book your workshop today or order online 24/7 at My SU! Website.

Products Used:

Stamps: Very Vintage Jumbo Wheel, Punch Potpourri (Hostess Level 1)

Colors: Pear Pizzazz, Blushing Bride, Concord Crush, Whisper White, Versamark

Accessories: Scallop Trim Border Punch, Concord Crush Stitched Poly Ribbon, 2 Step Bird Punch, Jumbo Wheel Handle, Clear Embossing Powder, Heat Tool

Wheelin' Good Time

2010-08-15T09:00:00.001-05:00

I recently did a workshop for a group of ladies focusing on wheels. I have the first one for you today. It focused on the "spotlighting" technique. Spotlighting is pretty simple. You simply focus your coloring on a part of your image. In this case I rolled the "Kindness" Jumbo Wheel onto two pieces of Whisper White cardstock. The first piece goes onto the project. Using circle punches, punch out several random places on the second piece. Color in the image on the punched circles. Mat the circles onto cardstock punched slightly larger. When mounting the circles onto your project line them up with the original image.

This technique can be done with wheels or regular stamp images. It is a fun way to showcase the image without coloring in the entire thing. I finished mine off with a simple mat and piece of 1/4" grosgrain ribbon. The card is 6x3 and yes, Stampin' Up! sells envelopes to fit this size.

This project was part of a home workshop focusing on wheels. If there is a product you are interested in learning more about, simply ask your demonstrator if they can create a workshop for you.

ONLINE ORDERING: You can order Stampin' Up! products online 24/7 at My SU! Website.

Products Used:

Stamps: Kindness Jumbo Wheel

Colors: Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Tempting Turquoise, Whisper White

Accessories: Pumpkin Pie 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Circle Punches (3/4", 1", 1-1/4", 1-3/8"), Jumbo wheel handle, Basic Black Jumbo Cartridge

Chalkboard - Fireworks

2010-08-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

I found this card the other day. My Stamping Club made it as one of their June projects. Though the 4th of July holiday has passed this technique is a fun one.

The chalkboard technique, also called black magic, is a way to have a light colored image on a dark colored background. The process is simple and the results are fantastic. When I saw the "July Fourth" stamp set in the Summer Mini Catalog, I immediately thought of this technique. One of the benifits of craft ink is that it takes time to dry. This makes it perfect for embossing or the chalkboard technique. You simple stamp the image in white craft ink onto your cardstock. While the ink is still wet, you dab it with your stampin' pastels. You can use the applicators in the pastel box, a spounge dauber or a cotton ball. Collect the pastel on your choice of applicator and dab it on the craft ink. The pastel will adhere to the ink. Once you have the color on you can wipe the area with a clean tissue to get rid of any excess pastel dust.

Stampin' Pastels (#120962) are now available in the new Color Collections. If you have a recently retired set of pastels you simply need to purchase the color kit (#120963) to bring them up to date.

Products Used:

Stamps: July Fourth (Available till the end of August in the Summer Mini Catalog)

Colors: Real Red, Basic Black, Pacific Point, Whisper White

Accessories: White Craft Ink, Stampin' Pastels, Scallop Circle Punch, Rhinestone Brads, Curly Label Punch, Real Red 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon

Simply Homemade

2010-08-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

Stampin' Up! has some new single stamps in this years Idea Book & Catalog. You can find them all on pages 18-20. One of them is "Homemade". It fits perfectly into the new 2-3/8" Scallop Circle Punch on page 200.
I wanted to play a little with the Level 1 Hostess In Color Paper Pack I got with my last order, so I made this simple card. The pattern color is Peach Parfait. It coordinates with the Homemade stamp in Peach Parfait Classic Ink on Whisper White cardstock. I layered it on a simple strip on Not Quite Navy punched down both sides with the Scallop Trim Border Punch (Page 201).

TIP: To get the perfect size on your punched mats.......don't try. Cut a piece of cardstock 1-1/2 to 2" wide (depending on the size of the border and how large a mat you want). Punch down both edges. Then cut the strip in half. A little bit of snail adhesive and attach the strips to each edge. This will also help to save on cardstock and a great way to use up scraps.

A great way to dress up a large background area is with an Embossing Folder. Simple place the front half of the card in the embossing folder. Have the other half lay open flat when you put it through your big shot. Try this layout the next time you have a simple image you want to showcase.

Products Used:

Stamps: Homemade

Colors: Peach Parfait, Not Quite Navy, Pear Pizzazz, Whisper White

Accessories: Silver Brad, 2-3/8" Scallop Circle Punch, Polka Dot Embossing Folder, Scallop Trim Border Punch

Black Roses

2010-08-02T09:00:00.001-05:00

My husbands unit got a new soldier the other day. We invited them over for dinner and met the nicest couple you could know. Both of them were as polite as you could hope anyone would be. So why did I put black roses on their card? Because they are into the whole gothic thing. I thought the black roses would be a nice personal touch for them.

I spritzed the roses with Shimmer Mist Smooch to make them sparkle a little. I made the roses with the tail end and wing of the two step bird punch. I got the idea from another SU! demonstrator on Stampin' Addicts. I love trading ideas like this with other demonstrators. If you would like to join my Stampin' Up! team and have access to all these great ideas let me know.

Products Used:

Stamps: Oval All

Colors: Crumb Cake, Cajun Craze, Garden Green, Basic Black

Accessories: Square Lattice Embossing Folder, 1/8" Black Taffetta Ribbon, Punches (Two step bird, Large Oval, Scallop Oval), Shimmer Mist Smooch Spritz

August Card Kit

2010-08-01T17:01:00.004-05:00

Featured Set: “For Everything” and Featured Accessory: Subtles Flower Brads
Featured Stamp Set for the YEAR: Teeny Tiny Wishes

WHY CARD KITS?

Card Kits are the Stamping Classes that come right to your door! You’ll receive the supplies to create SIX of EACH design shown above – that means all of the consumable supplies that you need to create 12 cards total. You will also receive 2 additional full color samples of “alternative” cards that you can make with the combined contents of the kit! In addition, you’ll receive detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to complete each of the 4 designs. This month’s card kit items are listed below, and the price of the Card Kit is just $20 – that’s less than $1.70 per card!!

Orders for the Card Kits must be received by July 10th. You will receive your kits at the end of the month.

Special Offer for August! Purchase the Card Kit and receive the Coordinating Set, “For Everything” and the Featured Accessory, “Subtles Flower Brads” at 20% off!

Teeny Tiny Wishes is a featured set for the ENTIRE YEAR!! Every month, we will be using this stamp set so that you have a wide assortment of greetings to work with. Since the sizes of all of the greetings are the same – you can select ANY of the greetings in this stamp set for ANY card!!

The Card Kit ($20) Includes:
Cut Cardstock & Designer Paper Pieces
Cut Ribbon Pieces
12 – Silver Brads
12 – Whisper White Open End Envelopes
Step by Step Instructions to complete 4 different card designs using the kit pieces

Add-on Products:
Rose Red Classic Ink ($5.95)
Basic Black Classic Ink ($5.95)
Certainly Celery Stampin’ Write Marker ($3.50)
Baja Breeze Stampin’ Write Marker ($3.50)
So Saffron Stampin’ Write Marker ($3.50)
Pretty in Pink Stampin’ Write Marker ($3.50)
Perfect Plum Stampin’ Write Marker ($3.50)
Rose Red Stampin’ Write Marker ($3.50)
1” Circle Punch ($10.95)
1 ¼” Circle Punch ($15.95)
1 ¾ x 7/8 Oval Punch ($15.95)
Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack ($16.95)
Teeny Tiny Wishes Stamp Set ($36.95 – discount given on first card kit purchase of the year only – discounted price $29.56)
For Everything Stamp Set: Wood - ($24.95) $19.96; Clear - ($17.95) $14.36 with the purchase of the Card Kit.
Subtles Flower Brad Assortment ($8.95) $7.16 with the purchase of the Card Kit

Other Optional Purchases:
Stampin’ Dimensionals ($3.95)
SNAIL Adhesive ($6.95)
Bone Folder ($6.95)
Paper Snips ($9.95)

Please Note: I am glad to ship kits directly to you! There is a $3.50 shipping charge.

Contact me today to order your Card Kit Today!
Kathleen Brill-Myrice / fa_stamper@sbcglobal.net

Smartie Thank You

2010-08-01T09:00:00.001-05:00

As a little treat for the class goers, I made them these Smartie Treat Holders. I got the idea from Dawn Griffith's Blog here. They are SIMPLE to make and perfect for any number of occassions. Parties, class treats, or my favorite "Just Because". Mine are made with a Certainly Celery Base. Where did I get the color combination from? Why the Color Coach of course. For more information on the color coach, check out the blog post here. I randomly stamped the images onto the Whisper White and adheared it to the Soft Suede mat. Slide in the candy and you are done.

Products Used:

Stamps: Circle Circus, Sincere Salutations

Cardstock: Certainly Celery, Pink Pirouette, Soft Suede, Whisper White

Ink: Certainly Celery, Pink Pirouette, Soft Suede

Accessories: Paper Snips, CANDY!

Note Pad Holder

2010-07-31T09:00:00.002-05:00

Here is the last item everyone made at the Christmas Class. This gift could easily be themed for any occassion. They make perfect back to school gifts for your child's teacher.

The New Concord Crush is right on for my daughters school colors. I am in love with the new In Colors so I paired it with Pear Pizzazz and Blushing Bride. The main base is 8.5x11 and scored at 1/2", 3/4", 6", 6-1/4". The not pad itself is 5x8 and I got at my local office supply place. You can easily change the dimentions to fit whatever size notepad you use. For this one the cardstock just touches edges, so the decorative strips were added to go over the seam. Both decorative strips were punches with the Eyelet Border Punch. I punch a couple of row with the word window punch on the back of the cover to slip the notepad into. A few slits in the sides and the ribbon helps hold the pen in place. I helped it close with a couple small pieces of velcro. They are not completely necessary, but felt they would help. The title is stamped in Concord Crush with the Jumble Alphabet and the flourish is from "Elements of Style" and stamped with a White Craft Pad.

Products Used:

Stamps: Elements of Style, Jumble Alphabet

Cardstock: Concord Crush, Pear Pizzazz, Blushing Bride, Whisper White

Ink: White Craft Pad, Concord Crush

Accessories: Hobby Blade, Mat Pack, 5/8" Organza Ribbon, Eyelet Border Punch, notepad, velcro

Tres Chic Purse (gift card)

2010-07-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

These are too cute. I found them on Becky Roberts Blog. Everyone at the Christmas in July class last week got to make one. Becky has tutorials for sale to make 3 different purses. I have two of them pictured today. They are about 5 inches across, the perfect size for a gift card or a few pieces of candy.

The colors of the purses are Pretty in Pink, Chocolate Chip, and Island Oasis Designer Paper on an Old Olive base. Since Becky sells the tutorial I can't share how to make them here. Contact me and I will put together a class for you and your friends.

Gift Tag & Candy Box

2010-07-29T09:00:00.000-05:00

I made this with the idea of doing it at the Christmas in July class, but we already had a lot of other things to do. Still I had it to show and think I will add it to the next gift class I do.

The box is made from Cherry Cobbler Cardstock and holds 4-- 3x3 Gift Cards and Envelopes. You could probably fit 6 card with tags, but I just happen to only do 4 this time. The cards were done with textured Basic Gray Cardstock, little strips of Cherry Cobbler and a small piece of Jolly Holiday Designer Series Paper. I also wrapped the nugget candy in Jolly Holiday DSP.

The penguin is one of the images from this years Ronald McDonald House Stamp Set called "Tag Alongs." So cute and $2 from the purchase of each stamp set goes to the RMHC.

I don't have the measurements of the box for you today. I want to tweak the box a little so the candy fits differently. Maybe I just need bigger candy. I will work on that and post it in the future. I covered the box using the Medium Window Sheets.

Pinecone Ornaments

2010-07-28T09:00:00.001-05:00

All of the participants at the Christmas in July class got to make a pinecone ornament. Here is a picture of two of them. These are simple to make and only take a few supplies. To learn how to make your own, keep an eye out for future classes or book a class with your friends today. Contact me for available dates.

Materials needed: 12x12 Designer Paper (Jolly Holiday used here), Ribbon (5/8" Old Olive Satin used here), pins, styrofoam ball, and lots of finger strength.

"JOY" Banner

2010-07-27T09:00:00.000-05:00

Here is one of the projects I had for everyone to get decorating ideas from.

The penant banner is made using the Pennant Banner Die for the Big Shot. This is the larger of the two penants that come on the die. The Old Olive scallop circles are also on the die. They are slightly bigger than the ones made with the scallop circle punch. The letters were cut with the Big Shot using the Timeless Type Alphabet.

To hang the banner I punched holes and attached Antique Brass Jumbo Eyelets with the Crop-A-Dile. The tassle at the bottom is 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon. When you cut the ribbon there is one end that will naturally unravel if you pull at the strings. The other end I cut the side of the ribbon off to make the threads easier to remove. The Designer Paper in the background is from the current Idea Book & Catalog. It coordinates with the Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive and Very Vanilla cardstocks. I cut it with the Pennant Banner Die to get the shape just right, then cut off the scallops.

Products Used:

Stamps: NONE

Cardstock: Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive, Very Vanilla, Jolly Holiday DSP

Ink: NONE

Accessories: Pennant SU! Bigz XL Die, 1-3/4" Circle Punch, Antique Brass Jumbo Eyelets, 1/4" Old Olive Grograin Ribbon, Crop-a-Dile, 2-way glue pen, 5/8" Old Olive Grograin Ribbon

New Header

2010-07-26T12:32:00.003-05:00

I thought it was time for a new blog header, so you get a bonus post today. If you receive this by an automatic feed, click the title of this post to go to my blog and view the header. I also changed the background and made a few tweeks to the layout.
I wanted to do something bright. What a great chance to use the NEW 2010-2012 In Colors. The mat color behind the entire header and the mat behind my name plate is Concord Crush. The decorative border strip at the bottom is in Pear Pizzazz. It is the border stamp from Vintage Vogue two times over. The flourish is from the same set and is done in Blushing Bride. The flowers on the flourish are Poppy Parade and the "Friends F" is Peach Parfait.
The entire header was made using My Digital Studio. SU! had been wonderful and gave all My Digital Studio users a free upgrade with the New In Colors. Thank you SU! I also added some courduroy brads in Basic Grey. Though these brads are no longer sold by SU! they will never retire from My Digital Studio. I sized them down to fit onto the flowers. There is some black stitching around the edge of the entire thing. By the creative use of some punches I was able to block out anything on the edges of the header I didn't want to show, such as the extra portions of the stitching or the flourish stamp.
Contact me for more on how to use My Digital Studio. I am available for a private training session or for groups. I will bring my computer along, hook it up to your TV and everyone can see all the great things that My Digital Studio can do. To order your own copy, contact me or order it online 24/7 at My Stampin' Up! Website. My Digital Studio is available for PC or MAC.

Christmas in July

2010-07-26T09:00:00.006-05:00

Fun was had by all at Saturday's class. Here is one of the simple projects we did. It is a wine bottle tag. You could also make it as a doorknob hanger. The wreath could be used to embelish any number of projects.

BASICS: The Real Red Cardstock is 8-1/2" x 4". Score the tag at 2-1/2" and punch a 1-3/4" Circle. The Whisper White piece is 5-1/2" x 3-1/2" I decorated my tag with the "Sweet Season" stamp set. I received the stamp set for FREE at Stampin' Up! Convention last year. (Contact me to learn about the FREE things you can get from Stampin' Up!) I stamped the image onto the tag with Basic Black ink, then onto a scrap piece with Real Red. I punched just the house out with the Small Oval Tag and mounted it with a dimensional directly over the black house.

The wreath at the top was so fun to make. I got the instructions from Lynn Pratt here. You have to wait a bit for the video to load.
I made this wreath with some retired ribbon from last years winter mini catalog I had hanging around. We made them with 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon at the class. It takes a little bit to get the hang of it, but they are easy when you do. I embelished mine with a red 1/4" Grosgrain bow and a mini tag tied with some linen thread.

To order products contact me or order online 24/7 at My Stampin' Up Website

Products Used:

Stamps: Sweet Season, Teeny Tiny Wishes

Cardstock: Real Red, Whisper White

Ink: Basic Black, Real Red

Accessories: Real Red Grosgrain Ribbon, Jewlery Tag Punch, Linen Thread, Dimensional, Mistletoe (Retired Ribbon)

Blushing Bride Style

2010-07-25T10:55:00.010-05:00

I have another card and scrapbook combination for you today. This one features the Blushing Bride In Color just released.

Blushing Bride in a nice color. The best way I can describe the difference......it is a matte version of the Pretty In Pink. Pretty In Pink looks a bit brighter. Pink Pirouette in a little more subtle. The Blushing Bride has a sort of small beige tint to it when I look at it. To get the best view of the colors, ask your demonstrator.

The color combination for thie project is Blushing Bride, Pear Pizzazz, and Early Expresso. I cut the large circle with the Circle Scissors Plus. The Circle Scissors Plus is perfect when the punches just are not big enough. You can cut a circle any size up to 6". You can also cut through multiple layers at one time. Simple adhear them together, place them on your glass cutting mat, and Circle Scissors Cut away. I then stamped the large flowers from the "Elements of Style" stamp set onto the circle in Blushing Bride. The bird and sentiment is from the same stamp set. I stamped the bird in Pear Pizzazz, cut it out with my paper snips and then mounted it using dimensionals. The sentiment is stamped in Early Expresso directly on the Whisper White circle. I punched a 3/4" strip of Blushing Bride with the NEW Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border. A couple quick layers and a short piece of the Early Expresso 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon and I am done.
The coordinating scrapbook page uses the same circle and ribbon strip from the card. I then added 3 simple boxes for photos on the side. The squares hold a 2x2 photo. There is plenty of area if you want to put a title or some journaling. I love the simplicity of the layout. Now to find the 3 perfect photos to use. (hmmm 3 kids, 3 boxes, I think I know what to do)

Interested in doing scrapbook pages based on cards with your friends, book your workshop now.

You can order Stampin' Up! products by contacting me or order online 24/7 at My Stampin' Up! Website.

Products Used:

Stamps: Elements of Style

Cardstock: Blushing Bride, Pear Pizzazz, Early Expresso, Whisper White

Ink: Blushing Bride, Pear Pizzazz, Early Exresso

Accessories: Circle Scissor Plus, Glass Cutting Mat, 1/8" Early Expresso Taffeta Ribbon, Dimensionals, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch

Because I Care

2010-07-24T09:00:00.000-05:00

"Because I Care" is one of this years Level 1 Hostess Stamp Sets. Anyone who places a $150 order or collects $150 worth of orders (before tax & shipping) can select this stamp set for FREE! I stamped the main flower image in Marina Mist onto Whisper White Cardstock. It is layered on Daffodil Delight and Marina Mist Cardstock. I tied a piece of Pretty In Pink Satin Ribbon around the panel and put in two strips of 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon. The sentiment is from the same stamp set. The criss cross paper on the left is actually a specialty paper found in the Summer Mini catalog out right now. The various 12x12 papers are embosed with designs. When you put ink on the paper the embossed area repells the ink and shows the white embossing. You can roll ink, sponge ink, spritz ink, dag ink, dribble ink, spray the paper with smooch, or cover it in any other way with a water soluable solution. You can put as much or as little as you like. Use a clean tissue or clean sponge to help wipe off the unneeded ink and make the white shine. I used a Stampin' Spounge. I cut my spounges into smaller pieces for various colors.

Be sure to book your workshop and earn your very own "Because I Care" Hostess Stamp Set. You can pick from clear or wood mount. Want to stock up on all these wonderful new colors, order $150 online at My Stampin' Up! Website and you can select this as your Hostess Free Stamp Set.

Products Used:

Stamp Sets: Because I Care (Hostess Exclusive)

Cardstock: Pretty In Pink, Marina Mist, Daffodil Delight, Whisper White, Presto Patterns Specialty DSP

Ink: Marina Mist, Daffodil Delight

Punches: 1/2" Circle, Oval, Large Oval, Scalloped Oval

Other Accessories: Dimensionals, Pretty In Pink Satin Ribbon, Marina Mist 1/8" Taffeta, Daffodil Delight 1/8" Taffeta, Stampin' Spounges

Cards as Inspiration

2010-07-23T09:00:00.000-05:00

I have another card and scrapbook pair for you. They feature some of the NEW FABULOUS COLORS. I am not normally an orange fan, but this Tangerine Tango just Tickles my Toes. I paired it with Daffodil Delight and one of the New In Colors, Concord Crush. Again I got the color combination from the Color Coach I talked about yesterday.
For the card I embossed the front base with the new Finial Press Embossing Folder. I simply put the front only into the embossing folder and ran it through the Big Shot. The "Vintage Vogue" stamp set has been one of my favorites since it came out in the Occassions Mini Catalog. I was very glad that it carried over and is in the new Idea Book & Catalog. This stamp set has so many uses. One of my favorite types of cards to make is one with a use for everything. I used one of the sentiments from the stamp set, but you could just as easily put any sentiment on this card. I cut the flower out with my paper snips and mounted it on a dimensional. I then tied a piece of the New 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon (Daffodil Delight) onto a ribbon slide from the Silver Hodgepodge Hardware Kit. It is again mounted onto the flower with a dimensional.

Again I carried over the layout of the card to the scrapbook page. The long strips and diagonal square are featured. I stamped the branches a few times across the bottom strip. Since the embossing folder is only big enough for a standard card front, I didn't enboss the entire page. I also like my photos to be the star and generally keep my scrapbook pages simple. I added a large photo mat for a 6x4 photo. This layout could easily be turned on it's side or made into a larger 12x12 layout if you so wish.

Thanks for looking and come back soon for more projects featuring the new colors.

You can order Stampin' Up! products by contacting me or ordering online 24/7 at My Stampin' Up! Website.

Products Used:

Stamp sets: Vintage Vogue

Cardstock: Tangerine Tango, Concord Crush, Daffodil Delight, Whisper White

Ink: Daffodil Delight, Tangerine Tango

Accessories: Finial Press Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Silver Hodgepodge Hardware, Daffodil Delight 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Dimensionals, Paper Snips

New Color Coach

2010-07-22T09:00:00.000-05:00

This tool is fabulous!!

The New Color Coach (#121620) ....
■ Includes 55 double-sided cards with removable metal post fastener
■ Includes color theory cards and individual color swatch cards
■ On individual color cards, one side shows color, the other side lists coordinating colors
■ Card size: 2-3/4" x 4-1/2"

The cards have a nice sized sample of each color making them easy to use for designing projects. You can take the fastener off and use the cards individually or change the order. Some may like to have the colors in rainbow order, others may like them in Color Collection order. With the new fastener the choice is yours.

MY FAVORITE PART is the back of each card.

The back shows two color combinations for each color. With 40 colors plus 5 In Colors, that is 90 wonderful new color combinations to get your creativity started.

I tried to take pictures of the new colors against continuing colors. The photos didn't do them justice. The best way to appreciate the new colors is in person of course. Another FUN way to check them out is in the store of My Stampin' Up! Website. Click on "Explore Color" from the menu on the left of the store. Then click on "New Collections". You can then explore them all.

Each color collection has a card layout to play with. You can click on any of the colors at the top of the page and put them on your card. Need a starting place. Click on "Creative Combinations" below the layout. Two options will come up to get your started. There are two combinations for each color collection.

Want to see more of the New Colors, order variety packs of cardstock OR book a workshop with your local demonstrator.

Simple Summer Mini Cards

2010-07-21T09:00:00.000-05:00

I have two more summer mini cards to show you and then I promise to show some new catalog things tomorrow.

For the first card, I used the "Tropical Party" stamp set and the "Island Oasis" Designer Series Paper again. I stamped each of the images onto Whisper White cardstock and cut them out with my paper snips. I mounted them on a square of whisper white punched with the ticket corner punch and matted onto Pumpkin Pie cardstock. The striped squares are from the Island Oasis DSP. The other side has small palm trees in various colors coordinating to the DSP. The palm branch is adhered directly to the white square. The flowers are up on dimensionals to give the card a little something. The sentiment is from my favorite saying set, "Teeny Tiny Wishes". This stamp set is perfect for year round cards. I could have just as easily put "Happy Birthday" or "Thank you" on this card.
The second card uses the Punched Posies" Stamp Set. The color combination came from the NEW COLOR COACH (will talk about that tomorrow). It features Pacific Point (returning In Color), Melon Mambo (returing In Color) and Pumpkin Pie. All of these colors are part of the New Brights Color Collections. I randomly stamped the images onto a piece of Whisper White in order to make my own designer paper. The sentiment again comes from "Teeny Tiny Wishes". It was punched out with the small oval punch and layered onto cardstock punched with the oval punch and scallop oval punch. The bottom edge was done with the scallop trim edge punch. A quick piece of Pumpkin Pie 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon tied around the middle and done.

These layouts has many possibilities. A simple image stamp set, your favorite DSP, a quick sentiment and you are done.

Aloha Scrapbook Page

2010-07-20T09:00:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I showed you a card using products from the Summer Mini Catalog. Today I have a coordinating scrapbook page for you. I used the layout from the card as a guide for the scrapbook page. The colors are the same and several of the technics are the same.

I used the scallop edge punch to do the So Saffron piece on the left side. I used the same sheet of Designer Series Paper, this time turning it over to use the flowers on the other side. I switched the ribbon to a wider grosgrain ribbon in Old Olive.
The "Aloha" title idea came on inspiration from another Stampin' Up! Demonstrator. She used the coconut stamp for the "O" on one of her projects. Again I used markers to color the coconut before stamping onto Whisper White Cardstock. I played around with the tree image to create the "A". The other letters were cut from cardstock using the Simple Letters Bigz Dies and the Big Shot.
I encourage you to look through your cards and see which of them can easily be used for a scrapbook layout. Be sure to check back again this week for more cards and scrapbook pages.
To order Stampin' Up! Products contact me or order online at My Stampin' Up! Website.

Products Used
Stamp Set: Tropical Party (Wood mount #118515 or Clear mount #120081)
Cardstock/Papers: Rose Red, So Saffron, Whisper White, Island Oasis DSP
Ink (or markers): Early Espresso, Tempting Turquiose, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive, Rose Red
Accessories: Dimensionals, Old Olive 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon, Paper Snips

Summer Mini

2010-07-19T10:48:00.007-05:00

I found some time over the last week to make a series of cards using new products from the Summer Mini and/or Idea Book & Catalog. The first one I wish to show you is using the Tropical Party Theme items from the summer mini. The colors used are carry overs from the old Color Families to the NEW Color Collections. In each catalog below the name of the Designer Papers it lists the names of the colors used. This makes creating your projects all that more easy. The Designer Series Paper "Island Oasis" lists Tempting Turquoise, Pumpkin Pie, So Saffron, Rose Red, and Old Olive. I used Rose Red for the base of my card and main image mat. The So Saffron strip was punched with the Scallop Edge Punch. Using Stampin' Write Markers, I colored in the Coconut drink stamp from the "Tropical Party" Stamp Set before stamping it onto Whisper White cardstock. I cut out the flower with my paper snips and mounted it using a dimensional. A quick piece of Pumpkin Pie ribbon tied around the piece of "Island Oasis" Designer Paper and we are done.

The items in the summer mini are only available until the end of August. All available Stampin' Up! products can be ordered by contacting me or online at my Stampin' Up! Website.

Products Used

Stamp Set: Tropical Party (Wood mount #118515 or Clear mount #120081)

Cardstock/Papers: Rose Red, So Saffron, Whisper White, Island Oasis DSP

Ink (or markers): Early Espresso, Tempting Turquiose, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive, Rose Red

Accessories: Dimensionals, Pumpkin Pie 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Paper Snips

Retired Stamp Sets for SALE!!

2010-07-05T13:01:00.005-05:00

Here are all the retired stamp sets I am parting with. Buyer pays all applicable shipping costs. I am willing to work out a pick-up/drop-off for the Lawton, OK area. The safest way to mail them is by flat rate box with the USPS. I accept cash, check or Paypal.

Please e-mail me with your requests. fa_stamper@sbcglobal.net

STAMP SETS—WOOD MOUNT Original Value/Sale Price
Agradecimiento NUM (Spanish Very Thankful) $14.95/ $10
A Little Birthday Cheer NUM $13.95/ $9
A Tree For All Seasons $12.95/ $7.50
Alphabet Soup NUM SAB/ $5
Alphabet Soup SAB 06/ $4
Autumn Fest $23.95/ $14
Baby Jesus is Born $15.95/ $9.50
Background Basics $11.95/ $7
Background Sampler $15.95/ $9.50
Bella’s Bloom NUM $12.95/ $8.50Big Blossom SAB /$4
Best Blossoms SAB/ $4
Best Yet $9.95/ $6
Big Blossom NUM SAB/$5
Birthday Counts Mini Note Kit(2) NUM $9.95/ $6 Each/$10 for both
Birthday Whimsy NUM SAB/ $5
Birthday Whimsy SAB/$4
Bitty Birthday NUM $12.95/ $8.50
Bitty Boos Too $17.95/ $10.50
Blooming with Love $24.95/ $15
Boatloads of Love $23.95/ $14
Botanical Blooms NUM SAB/ $5
Business Memos $21.95/ $13

Classic Backgrounds $15.95/ $9.50
Doodle Alphabet $26.95/ $16
Doodle That $11.95/ $7
Flaky Friends $25.95/ $15.50
Framed Greetings $28.95/ $17.50
Four Square $14.95/ $9
Friendship Blooms NUM SAB/ $5
Friendship Blooms SAB/ $4
Fun Filled $16.95/$10
Game Night $20.95/ 12.50
Garden Whimsy $26.95/ $16
Greeting Galore $30.95/ $18.50
Happy Blessings $19.95/ 12
Happy Harmony NUM SAB/ $5
Holidays & Wishes $18.95/ $11
Introducing NUM $15.95/ $10.50
It’s Your Birthday $30.95/ $18.50
Itty Bitty Backgrounds $14.95/ $9
Just B $29.95/ $18
Just Like You NUM $25.95/ $16.50
Life’s a Breeze $31.95/ $19
Little Flowers NUM $11.95/ $8
Lots of Thoughts NUM SAB/ $5
Lots of Thoughts SAB/ $4
Love Owl-ways $19.95/ $12
Merci SAB/$4
Merriment $6.95/ $5
Merry, Merry $23.95/ $14
Mini Mates $29.95/$18
Much Appreciated $13.95/ $8
Note of Thanks Mini Note Kit NUM $9.95/ $6
One of a Kind $19.95/ $12
Ornamasortment $14.95/ $9
Polka Dot Punches SAB/ $4
Polka Dots & Paisley $18.95/ $11
Polka Dots & Petals $17.95/ $10.50
Print Pattern $17.95/ $10.50
Quick Thinking $12.95/ $7.50
Quilt Quips $22.95/ $13.50
Sealed with a Kiss $15.95/ $9.50
Simple Wishes $11.95/ $7
So Many Scallops SAB/ $4
So Very NUM SAB/ $5
So Very SAB $4
Sprinkles $14.95/ $9
Star-Studded Season $23.95/ $14
Tags & More $19.95/ $12
Thankful Thinking NUM $13.95/ $9
Thoroughly Thankful $22.95/ $13.50
Very Thankful $14.95/ $9
Voila $25.95/ $15.50
Voila To Go $17.95/ $10.50
Warm Words $21.95/ $13
Word Search $17.95/ $10.50
Wow Flowers NUM $12.95/ $8.50
You & Moi NUM $12.95/$8.50

HOSTESS STAMP SETS
Level 1--$8 Each
Celebraciones Especiales (Holiday Best in Spanish)
Comfort Food NUM
Country Morning NUM
From the Garden
Holiday Best
Love Bug
Of The Earth NUM
Party Punch
Patterned Pines
Picture This –Clear Mount
Pocket Full of Posies NUM
Punches Three
Riveting
So Many Sayings (Cut and mounted on dominoes)
Sweet Little Sentiments
Tags So Much
Warmest Regards

Level 2--$16 Each
A is for Adorable
Admit It
Echoes of Kindness
For a Friend
In The Spotlight
Infinite Goodness NUM
Serene Spring
Snow Buddies

Level 3--$24 Each
Basket Full of Fun
Time Well Spent

MISC.
Remembering You Simply Sent Kit (stamps used once, All pieces intact) $42.95/ $30

WHEELS—Regular $4.50 Each
Blooms & Bulbs
Butterflies & Blossoms
Daisy Field
Kisses
Many Mittens
My ABC’s
Sweet Feet
Watercolor Joy
Whirly-Twirly

WHEELS—Jumbo $6.50 Each
All About Christmas
Batty
Bouquet
Nursery Letters
Petals
See You Around
Snow
So Swirly
Something Fishy
Spooky Skyline
Sweet Stars (2)

Retired Paper For Sale

2010-07-04T22:02:00.009-05:00

I am cleaning out the craft room. I have been hording paper and stamps for several years. It is time for it to go to a home where it will be used. All of the following items are retired from the Stampin' Up! Catalog. For current items please check out the product page and store on My Stampin' Up! Website.

All items are first come first serve. I will be glad to send you an invoice. You can pay by check, cash or Paypal. Buyer is responsible for all shipping fees, including packaging if applicable. If you live in the Lawton, OK area you are more than welcome to arrange a pick-up/drop-off.

Here is all the paper. I am working on a list of the Stamp Sets and other accessories.

DESIGNER SERIES PAPER—Full Packs
Berry Bliss $6 Pending
Delicate Dots $4
Urban Oasis $6

DESIGNER SERIES PAPER—Partial Pack # of full sheets listed—Whatever scraps are left are also included
Groom Specialty (6/10) $4.50
Bride Specialty (7/10) $5.25
Au Chocolat (6/12) $3
Brocade Background (8/12) $4 Pending
Delicate Dots (13/16) $3.25
Flowers For You (9/12) $4.50
Four Seasons (6/12) $3
Ginger Blossom (7/12) $3.50 Pending
Groovy Guava (8/12) $4 Pending
Juntos (9/12) $4.50
Lovely Lilac Prints (11/12) $5.50 Pending
Soft Sky Prints (7/12) $3.50 Pending
Spring Fling (7/12) $3.50 Pending
Spring Flowers (10/12) $5 Pending
Spring Showers (8/12) $4
Uptown (11/12) $5.50

12x12 SOLID CARDSTOCK
Almost Amethyst Smooth 9 Sheets $2.25
In Color 08 Textured 11 Sheets of retired colors $2.75
In Color 08 Smooth 15 Sheets of Retired colors $3.75

8.5 x 11 SOLID CARDSTOCK $4.75 for 24 Sheets, $9 for 48 Sheets—Will not break up full packs
In Color 06 5 Sheets each color $6 Pending
Bordering Blue 20 Sheets $4 Pending
Groovy Guava 19 Sheets $3.80 Pending
YoYo Yellow 23 Sheets $4.60

IT'S HERE!!!!! The NEW CATALOG

2010-07-01T08:55:00.004-05:00

The 2010-2011 Idea Book & Catalog is HERE! And it is FAB-U-LOUS!! The layout, the colors, the helpful tips. It is wonderful and so easy to find coordinating things. Then of course there are the new stamps and all the new wonderful accessories. New storage items for your punches and Big Shot Dies, all New Designer Papers, New Ribbons, New Punches, New Scrapbooking items and lets not forget the NEW COLORS! Within the 225 pages there is something for everyone.

DOWNLOAD the new catalog to your computer. Don't forget the SPANISH CATALOG.

Be sure to check out the NEW Definitely Decorative Catalog DOWNLOAD. Filled with new things to make your house a home. New chalkboard images, new stencils, new walk decor, even vinal sheets you can cut your own images with.

Monthly Card Kit--July 2010

2010-07-01T08:44:00.003-05:00

Featured Set: “Friends Never Fade” and Featured Accessory: Clips Assortment
NEW!!!!! Featured Big Shot Die Cut Trial: Clear Circle
NEW!!! Featured Stamp Set for the YEAR: Teeny Tiny Wishes

Why Card Kits?

Card Kits are the Stamping Classes that comes right to your door!
You’ll receive the supplies to create SIX of EACH design shown – that means all of the consumable supplies that you need to create 12 cards total. You will also receive 2 additional full color samples of “alternative” cards that you can make with the combined contents of the kit! In addition, you’ll receive detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to complete each of the 4 designs. This month’s card kit items are listed below, and the price of the Card Kit is just $20 – that’s less than $1.70 per card!!

Orders for the Card Kits must be received by July 10th. You will receive your kits by the end of the month.

Special Offer for July! Purchase the Card Kit and receive the Coordinating Set, “Friends Never Fade” and the Featured Accessory, “Clips Assortment” at 20% off!

NEW This Year – Teeny Tiny Wishes will be a featured set for the ENTIRE YEAR!! That means every month, we will be using this stamp set so that you have a wide assortment of greetings to work with. Since the size of all of the greetings are the same – you can select ANY of the greetings in this stamp set for ANY card!! This month, we are also doing a “Trial Run” to see how it goes offering you pre-die cut big shot pieces!! We are hoping that this works out and will be a continual offering to help you “sample” our exclusive dies!

The Card Kit ($20) Includes:
Cut Cardstock & Designer Paper Pieces
Cut Ribbon Pieces
6 – Big Shot Die Cut Circle Pieces
12 – Whisper White Envelopes
Step by Step Instructions to complete 4 different card designs using the kit pieces

Add-on Products:
Pumpkin Pie Classic Ink ($5.95)
Chocolate Chip Classic Ink ($5.95)
Baja Breeze Classic Ink ($5.95)
Pear Pizzaz Classic Ink ($5.95)
Daffodil Delight Classic Ink ($5.95)
In Color Stampin’ Write Markers ($14.95)
Real Red Stampin’ Write Marker ($3.50)
Pumpkin Pie Stampin’ Write Marker ($3.50)
1” Circle Punch ($10.95)
1 ¾” Circle Punch ($16.95)
Scallop Circle Punch ($16.95)
Dazzling Diamonds ($4.50)
2-Way Glue Pen ($3.50)
Teeny Tiny Wishes Stamp Set ($36.95 – discount given on first card kit purchase of the year only – discounted price $29.56)
Friends Never Fade Stamp Set: Wood - ($17.95) $14.36; Clear - ($13.95) $11.16 with the purchase of the Card Kit.
Clips Assortment ($6.95) $5.56 with the purchase of the Card Kit

Other Optional Purchases:
Stampin’ Dimensionals ($3.95)
SNAIL Adhesive ($6.95)
Bone Folder ($6.95)
Paper Snips ($9.95)

Please Note: I am glad to ship kits directly to you! There is a $3.50 shipping charge.

Contact me today to order your Card Kit Today!
Kathleen Brill-Myrice/fa_stamper@sbcglobal.net

Relay For Life Update

2010-06-18T12:20:00.003-05:00

First off, THANK YOU to everyone who helped support me and my Relay For Life team. I was able to raise $123 for my team. Not bad for my first year and only a couple of months time. Overall the Relay raised over $131,000 for the American Cancer Society.

It was a long night. I met lots of people and caught up with some old friends. About half way through the night things started to slow down. There were not as many people walking around the track any longer and most of the fundraising booths were shutting down. So I pulled out my computer and My Digital Studio. I had taken a number of pictures that evening at various stages of the event. What a perfect chance to create a scrapbook page to remember the event. I decided not to journal on this page. Though journaling is wonderful and tells a nice story to everyone who sees the pictures, this time I decided the story was for me to remember. There were no words to convey how this event touched me. I don't think I can forget my first Relay For Life. If you allow it, the impact can have changing effects for anyone.

I did use the words found on banners all around the relay. It was our theme and moto for many of the activities that night. For those who are wondering if I walked.....yes, I did. About 3:00 in the morning I packed up my booth for the night and turned in the money I rasied. About 4:00 I was done and started to walk. I only got in 6 miles before the official walking time ended, but for those of you who know me personally.....that was A LOT. Still, I can't wait for next year.

Awareness Ribbon Cards and Treats

2010-06-10T22:01:00.005-05:00

I hope everyone has heard by now that I am participating in the Relay For Life Friday night in Comanche County. To help raise money for our team at the event I am doing a quick make-n-take for a small donation to the team. Consider stopping by and making a card or treat. The Relay For Life is being held at Ron Stephens Stadium. It is just north of Gore Blvd. on 13th Street. It is a large stone structure. You can't miss it.

I would like to thank Kris Kilcoyne for permission to use her card and gum treat design. The tea bag treats I made using the Top Not Die and the Big Shot. The sentiment is from the "Favorite Thoughts" stamp set in the Summer Mini Catalog. People will be able to choose from a variety of colors that refer to different types of cancer. All the proceeds from the make-n-take will go to the American Cancer Society. I am also donating all of my profits from any orders placed at the Relay For Life to the American Cancer Society.

Please stop on out, make a card, buy some cotton candy (also at our team booth) and walk a lap with me. Festivities begin at 7:00 pm Friday night and go until 7:00 am Saturday morning.

My Digital Studio--Quarterback Training

2010-06-09T15:21:00.005-05:00

It has been awhile since I reminded everyone how great this program is. I tell you, it is wonderful! Simple. Fast. Anyone can do it. The paper and stamp selection is wonderful and the extra downloads available each month give you even more to do too.

I used the same "Shades of Spring" Designer Series Paper that I used on yesterday's layout. This time I used the green sheet from the set. It blended perfectly with the grass from the photos. Almost too well, so I added so photo mats to match the color of the football. It is easy to match any color on your page. Click on the item you want then click on "change color" on the right hand side. When the window box pops up, select "Picker" from the top choice. You can then scroll over your entire page and select a color from something there. I scrolled over the football and selected one of the red shades from the photo.

The stamps set I used were from the new downloads last month. They are "Athletic Department" and "Sporting". I also use the "Jersey" Alphabet and "Scoreboard" Numbers. For the "Quarterback Training" I added a text box, changed the font, and started typing. Again, you can change the color to match anything on the page. You can also select from any of the Stampin' Up! exclusive colors. The program comes with the current 48 standard colors and the In Colors from the last 2 years as well as the entire neutral color pallete.

Contact me for more information on My Digital Studio. I am also available to give a demonstration of MDS to you and your friends. Check out the ready made scrapbook pages, calendar formats, card building and interactive features first hand. There is also a My Digital Studio Starter Kit option for those of you thinking of being a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator.

Dinner & a Movie Scrapbook pages

2010-06-08T19:49:00.006-05:00

My daughter's best friend was moving to California last weekend. I took the girls out to dinner and a movie for their last night in the same state. While out I of course snapped some pics of them together. It was too dark in the movie theater to take any, but I got a few at the restaurant and back at her friend's house playing the Wii together.

I used My Digital Studio to put these pages together. All of the elements of the pages are available as separate downloads. They can be used in any png digital program you have. To make the movie strip I put a series of photo boxes in a row. Behind it I longated a square punch into a long black strip. The little boxes on the sides were made with the same square punch. This time I made the boxes smaller. I simply copied and pasted them over and over in a long row.

Papers: Spring Shades

Accessories: Sending Love Epoxy Brads, Square Punch, Circle Punch

Stamps: Simple Friendship, Schoolbook Serif Alphabet, Vintage Vogue