Kylie's Crafty Corner

My First Stampin' Up Leadership Conference

2012-01-29T20:37:00.001-06:00

I qualified to attend the Stampin' Up Leadership Conference this year and decided that since it was going to be in San Antonio (a short plane ride from Dallas) that I would attend and pick up some business tips and get back together with my Pals. I attended the Stampin' Up Convention in 2010 in Salt Lake City and I had a blast! I was excited to come, but also a little nervous to leave Saige for the first time. I was mainly nervous that she'd cry a lot and be difficult for my dad and Matt to watch. However....each night I received a text video of her just laughing up a storm in her highchair (isn't technology amazing?). It was such a relief.

The opening session was great. They gave us a free stamp set from the upcoming catalog, large pearls, a MDS content CD, regular pearls, rhinestones, Pool Party ruffled ribbon and a pack of 4 Occasions Mini Catalogs and 4 Sale-A-Bration catalogs (anyone need one?) They had great announcements about the catalogs and new products. After a delicious lunch there were breakout sessions. I attended a session by Brian Pilling (from the Stampin' Up office) on how to Share the Stampin' Up Opportunity. I saw him present at Convention and enjoyed it so I really wanted to see what he had to say. He gave me some great ideas on how to share why I love Stampin' Up and how to create opportunities to share my story. It was a good presentation and I'm glad I was able to get in it. They tried something new and had several break-out mini sessions in the afternoon by seasoned demonstrators. I attended one on workshop tips, recruiting, effective business tips and customer service. I'm hoping to take small nuggets from each presentation and apply them to my business. It was such a refreshing day and I'm so glad I was able to attend.

Day 2 of Leadership was another great day. We had two general sessions where we heard presentations on the State of Stampin' Up! They really are a great company to work for and I feel like they do very ethical business. We were able to choose our break-out sessions and I attended one on Why Women Buy presented by Carrie Cudney. I really got a kick out of her "mall map" showing how guys buy (they go in, straight to the store, spend $35 and 15 minutes) versus women (who go in, stop at almost every store, spend $376 and 3 1/2 hours). It was a really fun session. I thoroughly enjoyed my Title Benfits session with Bonnie Thurber focused on my current Stampin' Up title. I always enjoy her presentations and her humor. (Bonnie, if you're reading this- I'd really like a project sheet for all the great video tutorials that you provide. Just something with a photo of the project and a list of supplies used.) They ended the day with a project session with Shellie and I won the prize patrol! I won the Apothecary Art stamp set and the Labels Framelits! We all received a pack of the Everyday Vintage Designer Series Paper and the coordinating stamp set. It was a great way to end the conference! They always spoil us with goodies.

Overall, I'm so glad I went and I'm looking forward to next year. Here's a photo of me and my roomies. I love how Stampin' Up can connect you to fabulous people from around the country.


L to R: Ginger Tiovonen (Montana), Ann Schach (Iowa) and me.

Pals Valentine Blog Hop

2012-01-10T03:00:00.007-06:00

Love is in the air as the Stampin' Pretty Pals share the love with cards and projects for today's Pals Blog Hop!

You've probably hopped over from Frenchiee Hum at Frenchiee's Spot, I'm stop number 12 on the Pals Hop and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find great ideas for love themed paper projects from the Stampin' Pretty Pals! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the Pals Hop Line-up below and you'll be back on track

My project is the February page of my upcoming Birthday Calendar class. These calendars are available in the main catalog and allow you to write in birthdays and other special dates so you have them handy each year and don't miss a date (they aren't year specific so they'll last a long time). I used the I {Heart} Heart set and the new Outlined Occasions Sale-A-Bration stamp set and I stamped them in Rose Red. I think the I {Heart} Heart stamp set might be one of my favorites in the entire catalog. I love the clean heart images and how well they layer with one another. I'll be sure to post photos of the other 11 months after my class. I hope you'll stop back by to see them!

Now hop along for more inspiring ideas from Jennifer Takacs at My Stampin' Blog, stop number 13 on the Love Is In The Air Pals Blog Hop! Thanks for "hopping" by!

PPA 126- Color Challenge

2012-01-08T22:31:00.000-06:00

Today's card is a 1st birthday card for one of Saige's friends. This will be her 4th birthday party and she's only 9 months old! I think she has a better social calendar than I do. :) In all honesty, we've been extremely blessed with a mommy group that formed out of the hospital where she was born. I think staying home with her would not be nearly as enjoyable if we hadn't met so many great new friends. Most of her group is girls, but there are a couple of boys and I needed a boy birthday card. I thought the PPA color challenge was great for a boy birthday card. Let me know what you think.

Be sure to stop back by on Tuesday for the Pals Valentine Blog hop. It's going to be one of the biggest yet!

PPA 124 Sketch Challenge

2011-12-19T23:28:00.000-06:00

It's amazing that it's the holiday season and I'm finding more time to sit down and work on projects. I enjoyed playing along with this week's sketch challenge (isn't Margaret great? I get to meet her in January and I'm really looking forward to it). Here's what I pulled together for the challenge. I had to turn my card the other direction, but it still works. I used my color coach to come up with the color combo for this card- Pear Pizzazz, Peach Parfait and Not Quite Navy.

Here's a quick picture of my little elf! She's such a cutie (and so hard to get her to smile sometimes).

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

December Pals Blog Hop

2011-12-13T03:00:00.004-06:00

Welcome to the December Pals Hop! This month, we're featuring Birthday themed cards and projects! I hope you enjoy the hop and the amazing creations that the Pals have come up with.
You've likely hopped over from Angie's blog, http://www.angiesmusings.com, (Max got sick and couldn't play so we're skipping stop #3, sorry). I'm stop number 4 on the Pals Hop and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find great ideas for Birthday paper projects from the Stampin' Pretty Pals! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the Pals Hop Line-up below and you'll be back on track!

I have two cards to share with you for this birthday inspired hop (because we always need lots of birthday card options!). The first one plays along with this week's PPA challenge "puttin' on the ritz". If you've never played the PPA challenge you should. It's always lots of fun. I glitzed this card up with dazzling diamonds (Stampin' Up's take on stickles- they're great!) and some rhinestones.

(Melon Mambo, Basic Black and Whisper White)

This card uses one of my all-time favorite stamp sets, Fifth Avenue Floral. It was inspired by a cardigan I have hanging in my closet. I've recently had to move my crafting space into our bedroom closet because I came to the realization that I can't share a room with Saige :). It's kinda hard to tell from the photo, but it's Pretty in Pink and Crumb Cake for the flower stamping. The "Happy Birthday" sentiment is stamped in Early Espresso.

Speaking of Saige....here are some photos from Thanksgiving. I won her adorable little onesie at our church MOMS group. She's getting so big! She started crawling on Saturday and now has her two bottom teeth.

Here she is with her two cousins from Boston, Alexandra and Spencer. They came (with their parents) and spent the week with us. We had a great time.

Ok....back to the hop...
Hop along for more inspiring ideas from Melanie, at http://www.oopsadaisy.typepad.com, stop number 5 on the December Pals Hop! Thanks for "hopping" by!

PALS LINE-UP:
1. Patti MacLeith at http://www.papercraftsbypatti.blogspot.com

2. Angie Blake at http://www.angiesmusings.com

3. Maxine Conrad at http://www.stamptothemax.com/- she's sick so she's not hopping today- sorry!

4. Kylie Nicolosi at http://www.kyliescraftycorner.blogspot.com/
5. Melanie Collins at http://www.oopsadaisy.typepad.com

6. Angela Richwine at http://stampinawaywithangela.blogspot.com

7. Mikki Sarkisyan at http://www.mikkiscreativecorner.blogspot.com/
8. Barb Furlong at http://www.theloveofstamping.com/
9. Jennifer Takacs at http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/jenntakacs/blog

10. Linda Fisher at http://lindas-stampinloft.blogspot.com

11. Julie Trevett-Smith at http://www.thestampinaffair.com/
12. Nancy Gleason at http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/mystampinspace/blog
13. Nicole Watt at http://www.impressionsbynicole.com/
14. Mary Fish at at http://www.stampinpretty.com/
15. Rae Harper at http://wildwestpaperarts.com/
16. Nina Dee at http://www.deesignsbyninadee.blogspot.com/

17. Cindy Hall at http://prettyimpact.com/
18. Benjamin Turner at http://hestamps.blogspot.com

Happy Thanksgiving and a PPA Challenge (#121)

2011-11-27T22:12:00.000-06:00

I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving. We had family in town all week and really enjoyed our time visiting. One of my visitors was interested in stamping and begged me to get out some of my stuff. I, of course, was happy to oblige and tried to only bring out a few things so I wouldn't overwhelm her. (I know all of you stampers/scrapbookers know that this hobby is at least 50% collecting pretty things to someday use on some project). We had a mini-challenge session. I had her choose a stamp set, a color of card stock and I knew I wanted to use pearls to play along with this week's PPA challenge. After I had all of the elements I thought for a bit and came up with this card...

She chose The Sounding Joy stamp set and Concord Crush paper. I love the rich look of the card. It was a fun night stamping and I think she really enjoyed herself and was so proud of her cards. Thanks for stopping by.

PPA 119- Christmas inspiration

2011-11-14T21:39:00.000-06:00

This week is a great challenge over at the Pals Paper Arts. It's Christmas! I can't believe it's the middle of November all ready. Where has the time gone? I'm really looking forward to Saige's first Christmas (but I could use some fall weather- it was 83 degrees in Texas today!) Here's a Christmas card idea for the challenge.

Thanks for stopping by. Let me know if you have any questions about supplies used.

November Pals Blog Hop

2011-11-08T01:00:00.004-06:00

Welcome to the November Pals Hop! This month, we're featuring Winter, Christmas, and Hanukkah inspired cards and projects! Enjoy the hop and the amazing creations that the Pals have come up with. You've likely hopped over from Mikki Sarkisyan, I'm stop number 10 on the Pals Hop and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find great ideas for Winter, Christmas, and Hanukkah paper projects from the Stampin' Pretty Pals! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the Pals Hop Line-up below and you'll be back on track!

This is the new stocking sizzix die with the stocking accents sizzix die. I plan to use this as an accent on a Christmas scrapbook page for Saige.

This is a CASE from the Stampin' Success magazine (a perk of being a demonstrator). They did it in Pool Party, but I didn't have any DSP in that color yet. I switched it up with Poppy Parade. I added a glimmer brad and a mini jingle bell to take it up a notch.

This box took about 3 minutes to create! Retired Riding Hood Red ribbon, Tags til Christmas stamp set, the tag punch and some linen thread.

These are gift card holders made with the scallop envelope sizzix die. I cut my paper to 5x5 and folded it in half. Lay it on the die with the fold in the center and you'll have an envelope big enough for a gift card to fit in. I used the Tags til Christmas set, 1 inch square punch, postage punch and some mini jingle bells. They add just the right amount of bling to a project.

Hop along for more inspiring ideas from Mary Fish, stop number 11 on the November Pals Hop! Thanks for "hopping" by! I hope you enjoyed the projects. Now is a great time to join my Stampin' Up team. Join by 11/11/11 and get a free Big Shot! Ask me how.

1. Nina Dee at http://www.deesignsbyninadee.blogspot.com/

2. Julie Trevett-Smith at http://www.thestampinaffair.com/

3. Maxine Conrad at http://www.stamptothemax.com/

4. Jessica Ying at http://www.yoyostamping.com/

5. Mike Funke at http://stampin-style.typepad.com/stampin-style/

6. Jennifer Takacs at http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/jenntakacs/blog

7. Nancy Gleason at http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/mystampinspace/blog

8. Nicole Watt at http://www.impressionsbynicole.com/

9. Mikki Sarkisyan at http://www.mikkiscreativecorner.blogspot.com/

10. Kylie Nicolosi at http://www.kyliescraftycorner.blogspot.com/

11. Mary Fish at http://www.stampinpretty.com/

12. Barb Furlong at http://www.theloveofstamping.com/

13. Ann Schach at http://www.stampinchic.com/

14. Linda Fisher at http://lindas-stampinloft.blogspot.com/

15. Sandie Conner at http://www.prettyprovisions.com/

16. Cindy Hall at http://prettyimpact.com/

17. Rae Harper at http://wildwestpaperarts.com/

18. Angie Blake at http://www.angiesmusings.com/

19. Kris Kilcoyne at http://kweenbee.typepad.com/

20. Camila McManus at http://www.obxscrapbook.wordpress.com/

21. Leah O'Brien at http://www.leahsstampincorner.com

Here are some recent photos of my little pumpkin!

Here's Saige with Matt on his birthday last week. See a resemblance? I can't believe that she's 7 months old today!

Pals Blog Hop

2011-10-11T03:00:00.007-05:00

Welcome to the October Pals Hop! This month, we're featuring Thank You cards and Thanksgiving inspired projects! Enjoy the hop and the amazing creations that the Pals have come up with.
You've likely hopped over from Cindy Hall at http://www.prettyimpact.com/, I'm stop number 4 on the Pals Hop and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find great ideas for Thanks and Thanksgiving paper projects from the Stampin' Pretty Pals! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the Pals Hop Line-up below and you'll be back on track!

This card uses the Gently Falling an Days of Gratitude sets. It also uses the yummy Spice Cake DSP! I am in LOVE with this paper. The color combos are just beautiful.

Here are a few fall votive holders decorated to go with my table scape. I finally found a use for those giant buttons in the current mini catalog! I also used up some of the Spice Cake Fabric. I love how they all coordinate.

This votive holder was painted with Cajun Craze Modge Podge. It's another way to use your re-inkers. You add a few drops to a little bit of modge podge and stir it up really well. It works better with darker colors (i.e. yellow probably won't turn out so well). Just keep adding drops of color until it's what you want. I used a foam brush to apply it and I only did one coat. If you have any questions feel free to leave me a comment and I'll respond.

Hop along for more inspiring ideas from Nina Dee at http://www.deesignsbyninadee.blogspot.com/, stop number 5 on the October Pals Hop! Thanks for "hopping" by!

Line-Up:

If you prefer to show the actual links, here is the post line-up:
1. Nancy Gleason at http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/mystampinspace/blog

2. Sandie Conner at http://www.prettyprovisions.com/

3. Cindy Hall at http://www.prettyimpact.com/

4. Kylie Nicolosi at http://www.kyliescraftycorner.blogspot.com/

5. Nina Dee at http://www.deesignsbyninadee.blogspot.com/

6. Leah O'Brien at http://www.leahsstampincorner.com/

7. Jason Casper at http://www.stampindad.com/

8. Barbara Chatzkel at http://www.takeoutpaperarts.com/

9. Mike Funke at http://stampin-style.typepad.com/stampin-style/

10. Mary Fish at http://www.stampinpretty.com/

11. Nicole Watt at http://www.impressionsbynicole.com/

12. Barb Furlong at http://www.theloveofstamping.com/

13. Jennifer Takacs at http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/jenntakacs/blog

14. Mikki Sarkisyan at http://www.mikkiscreativecorner.blogspot.com/

15. Patti MacLeith at http://papercraftsbypatti.blogspot.com/

16. Rae Harper at http://wildwestpaperarts.com/

17. Camila McManus at http://www.obxscrapbook.wordpress.com/

And, here are a few photos of what I'm thankful for this year! Saige turned 6 months this past weekend. I can't believe how fast the time has gone by. I'm also thankful that she's sleeping pretty good so I'm getting more sleep :)

I hope she'll be daddy's photo assistant one day!

Cutest Pumpkin in the patch

LOVE! This was taken on her 6 month birthday.

I just love the look on her face in this photo. I had to get a picture of us in the same shirt. Her's is a hand-me-down and mine was given to me back in 2007 for a work thing. How funny that we had the same one.

Fall and Halloween Pals Blog Hop

2011-09-13T00:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the September Pals Hop! This month, we're featuring Fall and Halloween inspired projects! Enjoy the hop and the amazing creations that the Pals have come up with. You've likely hopped over from Barbara Chatzkel's blog, http://takeoutpaperarts.com, I'm stop number 14 on the Pals Hop and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find great ideas for Fall and Halloween paper projects from the Stampin' Pretty Pals! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the Pals Hop Line-up below and you'll be back on track!

Here are a few Halloween projects I've managed to put together.

This one is a CASE of Shellie. My demonstrator friend, Kathy, saw it and brought me the pieces to put it together. It uses the pennant die and the cone die. I added the sparkles with the new Dazzling Details from the Holiday mini. I love the dazzling details product!

Here are the new cellophane treat bags from the Holiday mini. They are so easy to put together and look so cute with the Batty For You stamp set as the topper. Just think about how cute it would be to have a vase or a treat basket full of these for your trick-or-treaters (side note, I'm so excited to put Saige in a costume for her first Halloween. I promise to post pictures later)

Here's another option for your Halloween treats. This uses the treat box die. The orange one is the regular size and the green one is an example of how you can fold your paper to extend the die and fit a regular sized candy bar inside of it. Aren't they cute?! (another thanks to Kathy for helping me with these as well).

I hope you've enjoyed my Halloween projects today. Please hop along for more inspiring ideas from Cindy Hall at http://www.prettyimpact.com, stop number 15 on the September Pals Hop! Thanks for "hopping" by!

1. Jeanne Norris at http://www.mycreativeimpressions.com

2. Patti MacLeith at http://papercraftsbypatti.blogspot.com

3. Melanie Collins at http://oopsadaisy.typepad.com

4. Ann Schach at http://www.stampinchic.com

5. Mikki Sarkisyan at http://www.mikkiscreativecorner.blogspot.com

6. Leah O'Brien at http://www.leahobrien.com

7. Mary Fish at http://www.stampinpretty.com

8. Barb Furlong at http://www.theloveofstamping.com

9. Linda Fisher at http://lindas-stampinloft.blogspot.com

10. Mike Funke at http://stampin-style.typepad.com/stampin-style

11. Nancy Gleason at http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/mystampinspace/blog

12. Joan Norris at http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/clearlycreative/blog

13. Barbara Chatzkel at http://takeoutpaperarts.com

14. Kylie Nicolosi at http://kyliescraftycorner.blogspot.com

15. Cindy Hall at http://www.prettyimpact.com

16. Nina Dee at http://www.deesignsbyninadee.blogspot.com

17. Sandie Conner at http://www.prettyprovisions.com

18. Nicole Watt at http://www.impressionsbynicole.com

19. Rae Harper at http://wildwestpaperarts.com

20. Debbie Pierce at http://www.stampinsunshine.com

21. Camila McManus at http://www.obxscrapbook.wordpress.com

22. Jason Casper at http://www.stampindad.com

PPA110- A spooky CASE

2011-09-11T18:40:00.000-05:00

I've managed to work ahead and get a few things together for my next Card Club (starting 9/18 if you're interested, there are 3 more spots open!). It's nice to have stuff done and not to have to worry with it at the last minute. It also lets me play along with challenges like this weeks' PPA Halloween challenge. Here is a card that we're going to make at the next Card Club (Sunday 9/18 and Tuesday 9/20). It's a direct CASE from the Idea Book and Catalog (proof that it really is an idea book and shouldn't be recycled just when the catalog year is over, he he.) If you're looking for a hobby now is the time to try out card making. We have a few more spots open in our card club and would love to have you join us!

PPA 107...late, but worth the wait

2011-08-24T16:01:00.001-05:00

so.... I tried to get my PPA card done in time, but I just kept waiting for some of my Holiday mini catalog products to arrive and ended up missing the deadline. (If I could just get the UPS man to deliver my packages earlier in the day!) We'll be making this card at my card club this Saturday. I'm really happy with the way that it turned out and I think it was worth waiting on the UPS man. I used the Pretty Postage stamp set and coordinating punch from the summer mini and the new 1" square punch from the upcoming holiday mini. I also used the new houndstooth embossing folder and I brayered it with perfect plum for more contrast. I just bought a brayer for that one purpose and I love the effect. Without further ado...

(special thanks to Ann Schach of The Stampin' Schach for the video tutorial on the bow)

Pals Blog Hop- 3-D items

2011-08-09T04:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the August Pals Hop! This month, we're featuring fun and creative 3-dimensional projects! Enjoy the hop and the amazing creations that the Pals have come up with.

You've likely hopped over from Rae Harper at http://wildwestpaperarts.com/, I'm stop number 13 on the Pals Hop and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find great ideas for 3-D paper projects from the Stampin' Pretty Pals! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the Pals Hop Line-up below and you'll be back on track!

1. Stephanie Uzee at http://www.stampinwithsuzee.blogspot.com/

2. Nicole Watt at http://www.impressionsbynicole.com/
3. Barbara Chatzkel at http://www.takeoutpaperarts.com/
4. Jason Casper at http://www.stampindad.com/
5. Melanie Collins at http://www.oopsadaisy.typepad.com/

6. Carmen Sublasky at http://creativestamptuary.typepad.com/the-creative-stamptuary/

7. Patti MacLeith at http://papercraftsbypatti.blogspot.com/

8. Sandie Conner at http://www.prettyprovisions.com/

9. Nina Dee at http://www.deesignsbyninadee.blogspot.com/

10. Leah O'Brien at http://www.leahobrien.com/

11. Mary Fish at http://www.stampinpretty.com/

12. Rae Harper at http://wildwestpaperarts.com/

13. Kylie Nicolsi at http://www.kyliescraftycorner.blogspot.com/

14. Pam Giudici at http://www.pamshobby.blogspot.com/

15. Linda Fisher at http://lindas-stampinloft.blogspot.com/
16. Mikki Sarkisyan at http://www.mikkiscreativecorner.blogspot.com/

17. Martha Stewart at http://www.seasonsofstamping.com/

18. Mike Fuke at http://stampin-style.typepad.com/stampin-style/
19. Barb Furlong at http://www.theloveofstamping.com/

I love to make 3-D projects. There's just something that makes me warm and fuzzy inside when I look at something I made. Here are a few of my recent projects. We made this at a recent workshop. It's the onboard journal from the new catalog. It features a lot of new products- the pennant parade stamp set, pennant builder punch, chocolate chip polka dot ribbon and the just add cake designer series paper.

This is a mobile that I made for Saige's room (it's a Pottery Barn knock off- I just couldn't stomach paying the amount they were asking when I knew I could just make it myself). I used the butterfly sizzix regular die and the colors blushing bride, sahara sand and whisper white. I'm still trying to share my stampin' space with Saige. The room was already gray and pink so it worked out perfectly that we had a little girl. I lucked out and found the rings as a mobile in the clearance section at hobby lobby. I cut off the existing mobile pieces and tied up my own.

And, I figured most of you would want to see some more of her bedroom. Here's her bed. My mom made the bedding and she did such an amazing job. I wasn't finding the black and white bedding that I wanted so I asked my mom and she came through with flying colors! If you're looking for custom bedding send me a message and maybe my mom can create something for you too. Thanks mom!

Hop along for more inspiring ideas from Pam Giudici at http://www.pamshobby.blogspot.com/, stop number 14 on the July PALS HOP! Thanks for "hopping" by!

PPA 105- Color challenge

2011-08-08T20:34:00.000-05:00

My hubby and I love to watch HGTV's design star. Sometimes I feel like PPA is my "design star". Saige took an extra long nap yesterday (and by extra long I mean 2 1/2 hours- her normal is only 40 minutes!) so I was able to sit down and pull together a quick card. The colors are all pretty and bright on their own so I knew I needed to add in a good neutral. I wanted to play around with my new embossing folder from the summer mini. I embossed it with the folder and then swiped versamark over the raised part and sprinkled with white embossing powder. I had to use a small paint brush to get lots of excess powder off so I don't think we'll be making this at an upcoming card club :). I kept the card really simple so it would highlight the embossed part. I couldn't decide on a sentiment so I left it blank. I think the new Occasions Alphabet will fit perfectly in the space on the bottom left and I'll just stamp it with whatever sentiment I need at the time. Super easy!

That daffodil delight is quite bright. Here's my little summer sunshine...

PPA 103- sketch challenge

2011-07-25T20:45:00.000-05:00

I managed to eek out a little time this week to play along with the Pals Paper Arts sketch challenge. I'm blessed to be a part of the talented group that calls themselves the Stampin' Pretty Pals. I have a workshop this coming Saturday and I know a couple of the ladies are big fans of the new houndstooth embossing folder so I was determined to incorporate it into my card. I also know that they liked the retired color Cameo Coral so I thought I'd try to use the new Calypso Coral in color. I must say that coral is not a color that I gravitate towards so it took me a while to come up with something I was happy with. I had to go to my color coach a couple of times to get my mo-jo going. More than likely I'll still be using the same pack of Calypso Coral a year from now, but I'm really happy with how the card turned out. I hope they like it too!

I used Basic Gray, Calypso Coral, a little Riding Hood Red and a bit of Just Add Cake DSP. I love the new In Color ribbon. Isn't it just darling? What do you think of my card this week?

PPA 102 and the livin's easy...

2011-07-17T21:37:00.000-05:00

This week's theme at the Pals Paper Arts blog is "summertime and the livin's easy". I can't say that the livin' is easier this summer (due to our new addition) but it's definitely better. Living in TX is super hot so we're spending most of our days indoors. My card below uses the new Pool Party in color, the Pennant Parade stamp set and the Bring on the Cake stamp set. We made this card at my 1st Annual New Catalog Open House last weekend.

I also made these cute little cupcake picks with the Cupcake Builder punch. They were super easy. It's somewhat hard to see the colors in the photo below. The bottom is crumb cake and the top is Pretty in Pink patterns paper.

A pool is about the only thing we do outside and Saige absolutely loves being in the water. We've been taking her to a "bathtime babies" class where they get her used to the water and she's done great with it. They play games and teach us how to help her get used to the water in her face and floating. (She's only 3 months old, but we thought we'd start her early and I'm going to try to do a waterbabies class with her once she's 6 months old.)

Life Happens

2011-06-30T18:00:00.000-05:00

Wow- I'm really not much of a blogger! Our little addition made her way into this world on April 8th and we couldn't be more smitten. The past 3 months has flown by filled with lots of photo shoots (my husband is a photographer), feedings, dirty diapers and not a lot of sleep. We're settling into a routine now and I'm blessed to be able to quit my job to stay home with her full time. This means I'm going to try to step up my Stampin' Up and I'll have to do a better job at blogging. Last Saturday I hosted my first Stampin' Up event since her birth and I can't tell you how great it was to get together with the ladies. I've really missed it. Here are the cards (I cas'ed 2 of them so that helped with the creative side of things) that we made and a couple of photos of Saige. Thanks for stopping by!

thanks to http://www.stamppaperscissor.blogspot.com/

my creation

thanks to http://ilinacrouse.blogspot.com/2011/03/eastern-blooms.html

Saige at 3 days old

Matt and Saige on Father's Day. I love them both so much!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T06:00:00.001-06:00

I hope you are all having a great day. This year I embarked on the "14 Days of Valentine's" again for Matt. I think he enjoyed it again this year and I hope I'm still "together" enough to pull it off once we have an almost 1 year old next year. I can't believe how fast the time is going. She should be here in about 2 months! Here is a card that we did in my January card club that was part of Matt's special valentine treat. I enjoy making 3x3 cards because they are so easy!

2011 Calendar- all at once

2011-02-02T18:09:00.000-06:00

I'm currently stuck at the Columbus, Ohio airport waiting for my plane back to Dallas. The ice storm has majorly delayed my flight back so I thought I'd take the time to share my 2011 Desk Calendar with you to take my mind off of things! This year I went a different route with my desk calendar. I first saw the idea on Anne Matasci's blog, http://mauistamper.wordpress.com/ then I asked my terrific husband to help me create the calendar files for a workshop. I hosted 2 workshops and we all had a great time putting the calendar together. Here are photos of every month. I hope you enjoy! If you have any questions about the supplies used please feel free to leave me a comment and I'll respond.

January PALS Blog hop

2011-01-11T05:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the January PALS HOP! This month, we're featuring Valentine’s themed projects for your inspiration! If you've hopped over from Mary Fish's site, http://stampinpretty.com , I'm stop number 3 on the PALS HOP and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find great ideas for papercrafted creations from the Stampin' Pretty Pals! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the PALS HOP LINE-UP below and you'll be back on track!

My project features the new Love Patterns designer series paper that's currently available with the Filled with Love bundle promotion. I also used the I {Heart} Hearts stamp sets, which has to be one of my favorites. I'm not typically a fan of red and pink together, but it's growing on me and I like the look of it here. I hope you enjoy the card and please let me know if you have any questions.

PALS HOP line up:
1. Mike Funke- http://stampin-style.typepad.com
2. Mary Fish- http://stampinpretty.com
3. Kylie Nicolosi - YOU'RE HERE
4. Martha Stewart- www.SeasonsOfStamping.com
5. Joanna Munster- www.inspiredbystampin.com
6. Melissa Ordelheide- www.naturalstampin.com
7. Nicole Watt- www.impressionsbynicole.com
8. Stephanie Uzee- http://stampinwithsuzee.blogspot.com
9. Joan Norris- http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/clearlycreative/blog
10. Carla Bazhenow- www.Carlas-Scraps.com
11. Melanie Collins- http://www.oopsadaisy.typepad.com
12. Dawn Gross- http://dawnsthisnthat.blogspot.com
13. Nina Dee- www.deesignsbyninadee.blogspot.com
14. Ann Schach- http://www.stampinchic.com
15. Sue Bendinsky- www.mycolorcreations.com
16. Gina Shaw- www.cardsbyginashaw.com
17. Barbara Chatzkel- www.takeoutpaperarts.com
18. Angela Richwine- http://www.stampinawaywithangela.blogspot.com

Hop along for more inspiring ideas from Martha Stewart, www.SeasonsOfStamping.com, stop number 4 on the January PALS HOP! Thanks for "hopping" by!

December Pals Blog Hop

2010-12-14T06:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the December PALS HOP! This month, we're featuring Birthday themed projects for your inspiration! If you've hopped over from Dawn's blog, http://dawnsthisnthat.blogspot.com , I'm stop number six on the PALS HOP and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find great ideas for papercrafted creations from the Stampin' Pretty Pals! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the PALS HOP LINE-UP below and you'll be back on track!

1. Melanie Collins -- www.oopsadaisydesigns.com
2. Barbara Chatzkel -- www.takeoutpaperarts.com
3. Patti MacLeith -- http://papercraftsbypatti.blogspot.com
4. Stephanie Uzee -- http://stampinwithsuzee.blogspot.com
5. Dawn Gross -- http://dawnsthisnthat.blogspot.com
6. Kylie Nicolosi -- YOU ARE HERE
7. Joanna Munster -- http://www.inspiredbystampin.com
8. Linda Callahan -- http://www.stampinseasons.blogspot.com
9. Mary Fish -- http://stampinpretty.com
10. Sue Bendinsky -- http://www.mycolorcreations.com
11. Gina Shaw -- http://www.cardsbyginashaw.com/

I hadn't picked up my Concord Crush yet (shocking I know!) so I thought I'd break it out for a monochromatic birthday card for the Pals hop. I also used the Birthday Bakery Hostess set that I received with my last order. I used the MOJO Monday sketch for my card design. I haven't played in a while and it was good to have a sketch to start from. If you've never played before you should check it out (www.mojomonday.blogspot.com). I hope you enjoy the Pals hop this month and I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!

November PALS blog hop

2010-11-09T06:00:00.007-06:00

Welcome to the November PALS HOP! This month, we're featuring Winter Holiday themed projects for your inspiration! If you've hopped over from Melanie's site, www.oopsadaisy.typepad.com, I'm stop number 13 on the PALS HOP and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find great ideas for papercrafted creations from the Stampin' Pretty Pals! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the PALS HOP LINE-UP below and you'll be back on track!

1. Joanna Munster -- www.inspiredbystampin.com

2. Barbara Chatzkel -- http://www.takeoutpaperarts.com/

3. Barb Furlong -- http://www.theloveofstamping.com

4. Mike Funke -- http://stampin-style.typepad.com

5. Mary Fish -- http://stampinpretty.com

6. Martha Stewart -- www.SeasonsofStamping.com

7. Carla Bazhenow -- www.Carlas-Scraps.com

8. Dawn Gross -- http://dawnsthisnthat.blogspot.com

9. Sue Bendinsky -- http://stampinwithfriends.typepad.com/blog/

10. Tammy Floreno -- http://gowiththeflo-gowiththeflo.blogspot.com

11. Stephanie Uzee -- http://stampinwithsuzee.blogspot.com

12. Melanie Collins -- www.oopsadaisy.typepad.com

13. Kylie Nicolosi -- www.kyliescraftycorner.blogspot.com

14. Gina Shaw -- www.cardsbyginashaw.com

My Card Club ladies met on Saturday and we made Christmas themed cards (just in time for this blog hop!). We all had a great time and several ladies ordered their Christmas Card making supplies. Here are the images of the 3 cards that we made. Enjoy and feel free to post any questions you might have.

This card also has Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz, but it's hard to see in the photo.

Hop along for more inspiring ideas from Gina, www.cardsbyginashaw.com , stop number 14 on the Winter Holidays PALS HOP! Thanks for "hopping" by!

November Calendar

2010-11-03T08:00:00.001-05:00

I fell in love with the Falling Leaves set at Convention this year (we just used it to make color charts, but I loved the leaf patterns) and I've put it to good use. I created my own patterned paper to use as the background by stamping the leaves randomly in Rich Razzleberry, Not Quite Navy, So Saffron and Garden Green. I love the look! I then stamped and cut out several of the leaves and glued them to a piece of twine to string across the front. I was pleased with the final result.

My September card club also made a card with their own created "patterned paper" with this stamp set, but unfortunately my resident photographer lost those photos and I don't have any more of those cards! Oh well, I still love him :)

So behind...

2010-10-29T21:28:00.000-05:00

Things have been busy in our neck of the woods and I just realized I haven't posted since mid-September. I've been crafting, but I haven't been very good at taking photos or blogging. I'm hoping I get better at this blogging thing, but I'm not promising anything. We found out in August that we're expecting our first child in April and I'm sure I'll slack off again.

Since I am behind I'm going to post my calendar pages for September and October. For September I made a few scallop circle flowers that I saw on Mary Fish's blog. They are easy to make and are such a cute embellishment!

For my October calendar I had to make the cute little owls I saw on Jason Casper's blog. I love it when I see someone use a punch in an unexpected way. Aren't those owls just darling?!

Thanks for stopping by!

September Pals Blog Hop

2010-09-14T05:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the September PALS HOP! This month, we're featuring Fall/Halloween themed projects for your inspiration! If you've hopped over from Tracy's blog, http://tlccrafting.blogspot.com/ , I'm stop number 17 on the PALS HOP and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find great ideas for papercrafted creations from the Stampin' Pretty Pals! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the PALS HOP LINE-UP below and you'll be back on track!

HOP LINE-UP

1. Ann Schach http://www.stampinchic.com/
2. Diana Caho http://b4ustamp.blogspot.com/
3. Joanna Munster http://www.inspiredbystampin.com/
4. Melanie Collins http://www.oopsadaisy.typepad.com/
5. Stephanie Uzee http://stampinwithsuzee.blogspot.com/
6. Linda Callahan http://stampinseasons.blogspot.com/
7. Carla Bazhenow http://www.carlas-scraps.com/
8. Pam Giudici http://pamshobby.blogspot.com/
9. Kris Kilcoyne http://kweenbee.typepad.com/
10. Mary Fish http://www.stampinpretty.com/
11. Barbara Furlong http://www.theloveofstamping.com/
12. Angela Richwine http://www.stampinawaywithangela.blogspot.com/
13. Gina Shaw http://www.cardsbyginashaw.com/
14. LeAnn Slater http://leleathome.blogspot.com/
15. Jason Casper http://stampindad.com/
16. Tracy Cowee http://tlccrafting.blogspot.com/
17. Kylie Nicolosi- YOU ARE HERE
18. Margaret Moody http://www.margaretmoody.typepad.com/

For this card I used the stamp sets Just Believe, Paisley Prints and Tiny Tags. When I think of fall I think of Thanksgiving and this is a perfect time to tell someone "thank you". I hope you enjoy.
Hop along for more inspiring ideas from Margaret, http://www.margaretmoody.typepad.com/ , the last stop on the Fall/Halloween PALS HOP! Thanks for "hopping" by!

My first Joy Fold card

2010-08-15T21:11:00.000-05:00

I first saw a "Joy Fold" card on my upline, Mary Fish's, blog and just knew I wanted to make a card like it. I'm right in the midst of baby season with several of my friends and love the new Baby Bundle stamp set in the new catalog. I was itching to use the carriage image and thought it would look great on this card. I had the perfect opportunity to combine them both for my baby themed workshop last week. Here's the finished product:

Here's a link to the tutorial if you want to know dimensions for cutting and scoring. Enjoy! http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/resources/tutorials/joy_fold_card

Pals 3-D Blog hop

2010-08-10T05:00:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the August PALS HOP! This month, we're featuring projects that are 3-D or three dimensional! If you've hopped over from Martha Stewart's blog, Seasons of Stamping, I'm stop number 7 on the PALS HOP and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find inspirational ideas for papercrafted creations from the Stampin' Pretty Pals! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the PALS HOP LINE-UP below and you'll be back on track! Please leave me a comment if you like my 3-D projects or if you have any questions.

This past weekend a good friend (who's pregnant and due in September) hosted a workshop so we decided to have a baby themed party. I decorated these letters with retired DSP to match her nursery and some ribbon and other embellishments. I'm really happy in the way they turned out. I gave these to her as a hostess gift. I think she liked them :).

Here's another project that I took to the party. It's a pair of baby shoes. I loved these cute little shoes when I saw them in the new catalog and even more when I saw them in person at Convention. I just knew that I had to make a pair! If you look closely you'll notice that there are 2 left shoes.....note to self, turn the template over to make a right shoe :). (hehe- we all learn from our mistakes, right?)

I also saw this baby pennant at Convention and thought "that was easy, I could make that". So I did. I used the star punch and cut off the tips, then added a little glue and stuck them to a piece of twine. I strung them around the jar and everyone gave a baby boy name suggestion on the cards inside.

I recently met a Stampin' Up demonstrator that lives just a few blocks from me. Her name is Kathy and she's already become a dear friend. She was so sweet and made me these two little mini milk cartons for me to show at my parties. Being a new demonstrator I'm still building my Big Shot collection and having these cute milk cartons to show is so nice. I love it with the new "Got Treats?" stamp set! Thanks Kathy for making these up for me.

.....Now onto the rest of the hop.....

PALS HOP LINE-UP:

1. Gina Shaw http://www.cardsbyginashaw.com/

2. Joanna Munster http://www.inspiredbystampin.com/
3. Pam Giudici http://www.pamshobby.blogspot.com/
4. Mary Fish http://www.stampinpretty.com/
5. Diana Caho http://www.b4ustamp.blogspot.com/
6. Martha Stewart http://www.seasonsofstamping.com/
7. Kylie Nicolosi http://www.kyliescraftycorner.blogspot.com/
8. Kris Kilcoyne http://www.kweenbee.typepad.com/
9. Mike Funke http://www.stampin-style.typepad.com/
10. Dawn Gross http://www.dawnsthisnthat.blogspot.com/
11. Tracy Cowee http://www.tlccrafting.blogspot.com/
12. Barbara Furlong http://www.theloveofstamping.com/

Thanks for hopping along. Please continue hopping along for more inspiring ideas from Kris Kilcoyne, http://www.kweenbee.typepad.com/, stop number 8 on the August PALS HOP! Thanks for "hopping" by!

New Catalog Blog Hop

2010-07-13T05:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the July PALS HOP! This month, we're featuring Stampin' Up!'s New Catalog & In Colors for 2010-11! I'm stop number one on the PALS HOP and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find inspirational ideas for papercrafted creations from the Stampin' Pretty Pals! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the PALS HOP LINE-UP below and you'll be back on track!

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):

Stamps: I {Heart} Hearts, Occasional Quotes (new hostess sets)

Ink: Certainly Celery, Early Espresso

Paper: Very Vanilla, Pretty in Pink, Soft Suede

Other: Certainly Celery Satin Ribbon, Scallop Trim Border Punch

HOP LINE-UP

1. Kylie Nicolosi - http://www.kyliescraftycorner.blogspot.com/
2. Mike Funke - http://www.stampin-style.typepad.com/
3. Barbara Furlong - http://www.theloveofstamping.com/
4. Martha Stewart - http://www.seasonsofstamping.com/
5. Gina Shaw - http://www.cardsbyginashaw.com/
6. Nina Dee - http://www.deesignsbyninadee.blogspot.com/
7. Jason Casper - http://www.stampindad.com/
8. Carla Bazhenow - http://www.carlas-scraps.com/
9. Mary Fish - http://www.stampinpretty.com/
10. Joanna Munster - http://www.inspiredbystampin.com/
11. Pam Giudici - http://www.pamshobby.blogspot.com/

I really like the new catalog and I can't wait to play some more with the new colors. This card used the returning color Soft Suede and the I {Heart} Hearts stamp set from the Occassions Mini that is now in the new catalog. I also used the Scallop Trim Border Punch that's new to the catalog, but returning from this year's Saleabration. I hope you like my card and that you'll hop along to see the other great creations. Next up- Mike at http://www.stampin-style.typepad.com/ , stop number two on the July PALS HOP! Thanks for "hopping" by!

Saying Goodbye

2010-06-20T15:50:00.000-05:00

Stamps: Four Square, Think Happy Thoughts

Ink: Night of Navy

Paper: Whisper White, Night of Navy, Patterns Pack III Hostess Level 1 paper pack

Other: Ivory ribbon, Linen thread, button, 1 ½ square punch, 1 3/8 square punch, ½” circle punch, 1 ¼ circle punch, 1 ½ circle punch, blue brad

June 1st marked the date that Stampin' Up released their "Last Chance List". On June 30th many items in the current catalog will retire. Above is a card that I made with some retiring items. Four Square is a great masculine stamp set and I'm sorry to see it go. I also used Think Happy Thoughts. I enjoy that set because it's great with punches and you can make a really quick, cute card. While it's sad to see some sets retire, I've seen the new catalog (available July 1st) and it's great! I can't wait to order some of the new sets.

Sum, Sum, Summatime

2010-06-16T22:30:00.005-05:00

Summatime, Summatime, Sum, Sum, Summatime! It's officially HOT and summer down here in Texas- with days in the high 90s and topping 100! I can always go for a glass of ice cold lemonade. Who can resist? Today's projects all have a summer theme and all use the super cute Tart and Tangy Set. I hope you enjoy.

My first project is a recipe card for Pink Lemonade. I used a piece of the new Daffodil Delight paper and I'm loving the color! It's not quite as "in your face" as Yoyo Yellow or Summer Sun. I see "delightful" days in my future :)

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):

Stamps: Tart and Tangy, From the Kitchen Of

Ink: Melon Mambo Marker, Soft Suede

Paper: Whisper White, Daffodil Delight, Rose Red

Other: 1 ¼” Circle Punch, 1 3/8” Circle Punch, Stampin’ Dimensionals

Now onto a great little card for a summer gift bag. Using punches helped me create this card in a snap and it just screams summer to me. (Did you notice that the same stamp can be a lemon, pink lemon, lime or an orange? How versatile!)

Happy Summer Birthday:

Stamps: Tart and Tangy, A Little Birthday Cheer

Ink: Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Chip

Paper: Whisper White, Daffodil Delight, Pumpkin Pie

Other: 1 ¼” Circle Punch, 1 3/8” Circle Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, Stampin’ Dimensionals

I'm doing a workshop in a few weeks and we're going to be making these cute little gift card holders. I used the Scallop Trim border punch from this year's Sale-A-Bration that will now be available in the new catalog (out July 1).

Tart and Tangy Gift Card:

Stamps: Tart and Tangy, A Little Birthday Cheer

Ink: Melon Mambo Marker, Old Olive Marker, Soft Suede

Paper: Whisper White, Old Olive, Rose Red

Other: Scallop Trim Border punch, Slit punch

I hope you're staying cool this summer and doing some crafting indoors by the A/C! Thanks for stopping by.

June Calendar

2010-06-01T07:28:00.002-05:00

I was on a roll early last month and got my June calendar page done way ahead of schedule. I once again used a page from the Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper pack. The new catalog comes out on July 1st and I'm hoping they have a pack of paper that is as versatile as this one was. I really enjoy using this paper- it seems to bring a smile to my face- all the different patterns, colors and designs. Too bad you can't get this one anymore (sorry!).

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Fifth Avenue Floral (113734)
Ink: Chocolate Chip (100908), Chocolate Chip marker (100071)
Paper: Chocolate Chip (102128), Pumpkin Pie (105117), Sweet Pea DSP (117161)
Other: Sunset Sizzix Font, Sizzix machine, display frame (Creative Memories), calendar page (Creative Memories), magnets

Tart and Tangy

2010-05-26T08:00:00.002-05:00

Here's a quick card that I created with the Tart and Tangy stamp set. This set just reminds me of summer and makes me want to hang out by the pool and grill hotdogs!

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Tart and Tangy (111514), Short and Sweet (115060)
Ink: Real Red Marker (100052), Old Olive Marker (100079)
Paper: Real Red (102482), patterned paper (sorry, I don’t know the manufacturer, but it’s not Stampin’ Up)
Other: 1 ¼” Circle Punch (104403), Scallop Circle Punch (109043), Card body (DCWV)

Better late than never....May Calendar

2010-05-21T10:17:00.001-05:00

I admit it, I'm not good at keeping up with this blog thing :). Sorry to all those who check and see nothing for a week or so. It's really best to have my blog in some type of a reader. he he. Here's my May Calendar page. It's been done since the last week of April so I really don't have an excuse for not getting it up here earlier.
Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):

Stamps: Eastern Blooms (111626) I reused my magnet from March!

Ink: Old Olive Marker (100079)
Paper: Rose Red (102482), Sweet Pea DSP (117161)
Other: rub-on letters (American Crafts), display frame (Creative Memories), calendar page (Creative Memories), magnets

I hope you're all having a great May!

Pals Blog Hop

2010-05-11T05:00:00.001-05:00

If you've hopped over from Joanna Munster's blog, Inspired by Stampin', I'm stop number 6 on the PALS HOP and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find inspirational ideas for papercrafted creations from Mary Fish's Stampin' Pretty Pals! We'll showcase all that Stampin' Up! has to offer for two important occasions, Father's Day and Graduation! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the PALS HOP LINE-UP below and you'll be back on track! We're thrilled to have you visit and excited to hear what you think about our hop! Please feel free to leave as many comments as you'd like along the way!

My card today is a Father's Day card. I'm a "daddy's girl" and you'd think that would make it easier to create a card, but I hit a wall with this one. I finally called in my super-creative and talented photographer husband, Matt, to help me. He helped me pick a stamp and a color scheme that was a little more masculine. Thanks, honey! We'll be making this card at my next PMS Night (Pizza, Music and Stampin')

More inspiring ideas await you at Martha Stewart's site, Seasons of Stamping, stop number #7 on the PALS HOP! Hop over and see Martha's wonderfully creative ideas (apparently there's more than one Martha Stewart that can craft)! Thanks for "hopping" by!

PALS HOP LINE-UP
Click on any of the sites listed below to begin the Pals Hop.

1. Barbara Furlong -- The Love of Stamping
2. Debbie Pierce -- Stampin' Sunshine
3. Gina Shaw -- Cards by Gina
4. Jason Casper -- Jason's Stampin' Pad
5. Joanna Munster -- Inspired by Stampin'
6. Kylie Nicolosi -- Kylie's Crafty Corner
7. Martha Stewart -- Seasons of Stamping
8. Mary Fish -- Stampin' Pretty
9. Mike Funke -- Stampin-Style
10. Regina Mangum -- The Stampin' Bean
11. Sumaiyah Yates -- Stampin' Dymonz

Sweet Pea Creations

2010-04-30T16:10:00.005-05:00

I'm really glad that I purchased the Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper with my initial order. It was a recommendation by my upline, Mary Fish (she's such a fabulous upline), and I'm getting so much out of it! The other day I was trying to use up a box of pre-folded cards that I bought at least 3 years ago. I also rummaged through my Sweet Pea scraps and came up with some pretty cute (and easy!) cards. {Little known fact: I enjoy using the last of things (like toothpaste, shampoo, paper, rub-ons, etc). That might not be the case for the Sweet Pea paper though, it was part of the Occassions Mini catalog and is no longer available.}

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: A Little Birthday Cheer (120242)
Ink: Pumpkin Pie (105216)
Paper: Sweet Pea DSP (117161)
Other: 1 ¼” Square Punch (104400), Card body (DCWV)

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Short and Sweet (115060)
Ink: Chocolate Chip (100908)
Paper: Sweet Pea DSP (117161)
Other: Beautiful Wings Embosslit (118138), Card body (DCWV)

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Well Scripted (118601)
Ink: Pretty in Pink (101301)
Paper: Whisper White (100730), Sweet Pea DSP (117161)
Other: Beautiful Wings Embosslit (118138), Elegant Bouquet Embossing folder (115964), Card body (DCWV)

What do you think? Isn't the Sweet Pea versatile? And how about the Beautiful Wings Embosslit- super easy!

Sweet Pea tall flowers card

2010-04-22T04:45:00.002-05:00

I saw the idea to use the Sweet Pea Designed Series Paper from someone named Regina on SplitCoast Stampers. I'm so glad I saw it because I wasn't quite sure how I was going to use that paper up- but it was so cute I knew that I wanted to use every bit of it up. The stack of Sweet Pea double sided paper is so versatile! This card size will fit in a standard long envelope and I've decided to line the flap with another piece of Sweet Pea paper to dress it up a bit.

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up):
Stamps: A Little Birthday Cheer (120242)
Ink: Chocolate Chip (100908)
Paper: Rose Red (102482), Chocolate Chip (102128), Sweet Pea DSP (117161)
Other: Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon (117287)

Fox and Friends Birthday

2010-04-18T14:28:00.004-05:00

Our flower girl, Trinity, had a birthday last week. I hadn't used my Fox and Friends set yet so I got it out and started putting it to work. I saw a card similar to this one on Splitcoast Stampers, but I can't remember who created it. I love the way it turned out.

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Fox and Friends (118565), Whimsical Words (119119)
Ink: Pumpkin Pie (105216), Ballet Blue (100907), Chocolate Chip (100908), Old Olive (102277)
Paper: Sahara Sand (105328), Whisper White (100730)
Other: Scallop Square punch (112081)

Happy Birthday with returning in-colors

2010-04-18T14:16:00.003-05:00

I'm so excited about the color renovation. I really liked Soft Suede and Rich Razzelberry from the current in-colors. I was so pleased when they announced that they would be staying. Here's a card that I put together using those colors. The other card uses Taken with Teal and, sadly, it's going to retire at the end of June.

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Circle Circus (115778)
Ink: Soft Suede (115657), Rich Razzleberry (115658) or Taken with Teal (103257)
Paper: Soft Suede (115318), Whisper White (100730), Rich Razzleberry (115316) or Taken with Teal (101584)
Other: Scallop Trim Border punch (118402), Scallop Circle Punch (109043)

April Pals Blog Hop

2010-04-13T05:00:00.003-05:00

If you've hopped over from Carla Bazhenow's blog, http://www.carlas-scraps.com/, I'm stop number 6 on the PALS HOP and I'm glad you hopped in! I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find lots of creative ideas to inspire you from the Stampin' Pretty Pals. For this blog hop we'll be showcasing all that Stampin' Up! has to offer for Mother's Day! Should you hop off course, simply click on any of the links in the PALS HOP LINE-UP below and you'll be back on track!

I'm excited to participate in my first blog hop and hope you enjoy hopping along! Please feel free to leave as many comments as you'd like along the way!

Here's my creation. It's fairly simple, but a little ribbon and the Trio Flower punch help create a great "wow' factor, without a lot of work.
Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Eastern Blooms (111626), Well Scripted (118601)
Ink: Soft Suede (115657)
Paper: Rose Red (102544), Whisper White (100730), Chocolate Chip (102128), Sweet Pea DSP (117161) Other: Trio Flower Punch (109183), brads (109109), Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon (117287)

More inspiring ideas await you at Sumaiyah Yates, http://www.stampindymonz.com/, stop number 7 on the PALS HOP! Hop over and see Sumaiyah's wonderfully creative ideas! Thanks for "hopping" by!

PALS HOP LINE-UP
Click on any of the sites listed below to begin the Pals Hop.
1. Regina Mangum Stampin' Bean
2. Mike Funke Stampin-style
3. Barbara Furlong The Love of Stamping
4. Debbie Pierce Stampin' Sunshine
5. Carla Bazhenow Carla's Scraps
6. Kylie Nicolosi Kylie's Crafty Corner
7. Sumaiyah Yates Stampin' Dymonz
8. Martha Stewart Seasons of Stamping
9. Jason Casper Jason's Stampin' Pad
10. Mary Fish Stampin' Pretty
11. Gina Shaw Cards by Gina
12. Kalshelia Lloyd Stampin' Fabulousity
13. Melanie Collins Oops a Daisy

April's Calendar

2010-04-04T17:18:00.000-05:00

Here's my calendar page for April. I hope you enjoy it. As I was putting together the supply list I realized that I didn't use a single stamp on this page (gasp). Fortunately/Unfortunately we're going to be traveling this month so I won't get to enjoy this page as much as I'd like, but I'm really going to enjoy my traveling!

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Ink: Rich Razzleberry Marker (116329)
Paper: Old Olive (100702), Rich Razzleberry (115316), Pumpkin Pie (105117), Barely Banana (102701), Sweet Pea DSP (117161)
Other: Beautiful Wings Embosslit (118138), Garden Delight sizzix alphabet, Sizzix cutter, diamond Stickles, display frame, calendar page (Creative Memories), magnets

Happy Anniversary

2010-03-24T20:23:00.000-05:00

Today is my parent's 31st Wedding Anniversary. I was out of town last week and didn't plan ahead like I should have. So... Monday night I pulled up the Mojo sketch (#131) and put together this card. I'm not sure if they got it on time, but it's the thought that counts, right? I know they enjoy my handmade cards. Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad!

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Kind and Caring Thoughts (2009-2010 Hostess Set)
Ink: Rose Red (101778), Chocolate Chip (100908)
Paper: Rose Red (102482), Whisper White (100730), Chocolate Chip (102128), Sweet Pea DSP (117161)
Other: Scallop Trim Border punch (118402), Modern Label Punch (116630), Old Olive Satin Ribbon (117292)

Thoughts and Prayers

2010-03-17T20:05:00.000-05:00

I made both of these cards with the Thoughts and Prayers stamp set. The images are simple and look great colored with the markers to get a 2-color effect. The set also includes several stamps that have great, heartfelt words for the inside of the cards.

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Thoughts and Prayers (113252)
Ink: Perfect Plum (101437), Old Olive Marker (100079), Perfect Plum Marker (100035)
Paper: Sahara Sand (105328), Old Olive (100702), Perfect Plum (101889)
Other: Scallop Trim Border punch (118402), Pretty in Pink ribbon (109032)

Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Thoughts and Prayers (113252), Define Your Life (114950)
Ink: Chocolate Chip (100908), Chocolate Chip Marker (100071), Old Olive Marker (100079)
Paper: Sahara Sand (105328), Chocolate Chip (102128), Pretty in Pink (100459)
Other: Pretty in Pink ribbon (109032)

March Calendar

2010-03-16T11:26:00.000-05:00

Here's my calendar page for March. The Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper from the current mini-catalog has lots of great designs that I'm really getting a lot of use out of. (hint: April's Calendar page also uses paper from the Sweet Pea line, but you'll have to wait to April to see it!)Supplies (all supplies Stampin’ Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Eastern Blooms (111626)
Ink: Old Olive Marker (100079)
Paper: Old Olive (100702), Sweet Pea DSP (117161)
Other: Heart to Heart Punch (113694), Lollipop Sizzix dies, Sizzix cutter, White acrylic paint, display frame, calendar page (Creative Memories), magnets

Hope Happens

2010-03-07T18:07:00.000-06:00

I made these cards for a Susan G. Komen silent auction fundraiser this past week at a conference. The auction was a success and at last count they had raised $18,600. Today I received sad news that my Stampin' Pretty Pal, Kris Kilcoyne, lost her mother to breast cancer. (I'm sorry for your loss Kris). It's a disease that I hope they can find a cure for soon.

Supplies:
Stamps: Ribbon of Hope (120261- Free during Sale-A-Bration), Hope Happens (113722)
Ink: Pretty in Pink (101301), Chocolate Chip (100908)
Paper: Pretty in Pink (100459), Sending Love DSP (117153), Very Vanilla (101650)
Other: Scallop Trim Border punch (118402)

Sending Love Creations

2010-02-26T19:38:00.000-06:00

Here are a few images of some things that I made with the Stampin' Up Designer Series Paper "Sending Love". I really like the cute patterns in this paper pack. I've had a clipboard sitting around my craft room for several months and I thought this paper was the perfect match.

Supplies (all Stampin Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Whimsical Words (119119), Vintage Labels (119122)
Paper: Sending Love DSP (117153), ivory scrap
Ink: Chocolate Chip (100908), Pretty in Pink (101301)
Other: Chocolate Chip ribbon (117287), flowers (Michaels $ spot), buttons (Oriental Trading), Sticky Strip (104294), clipboard

I found this cute chapstick holder idea on Anne Matasci's website. I emailed her about it and she was kind enough to return my email with some rough directions on how to put it together. It's basically a scrap of paper with 2 scored line and then you use your xacto to cut 2 parallel lines in the spine and it pops up to hold the chapstick. This is another project using a coupon! I got the chapstick for $.09 after a coupon at Kroger. woohoo!

Supplies (all Stampin Up unless otherwise noted):
Stamps: Vintage Labels (119122)
Paper: Sending Love DSP (117153), ivory scrap
Ink: Chocolate Chip (100908), Pretty in Pink (101301)
Other: Scallop Circle punch (109043), chapstick

Thanks for stopping by!

My first workshop cards

2010-02-21T14:38:00.001-06:00

I hosted my first Stampin' Up! workshop on Saturday. It went really well (at least I thought so). We made 6 cards in total- 2 each of 3 different designs. Most of my guests were seasoned stampers, but I still tried to keep them fairly simple. Thanks for stopping by and I hope you enjoy my cards.

Small Wonder Card (design by Anne Matasci; all products Stampin' Up):
Paper: Certainly Celery (105125), Bashful Blue (105120), Whisper White (100730), Pale Plum (101658), Barely Banana (102701)
Ink: Bashful Blue (105209), Certainly Celery (105217)
Stamps: Baroque Motifs (113490), Whimsical Words (119119)
Other: Beautiful Wings Embosslit (118138)

Congratulations Card:
Paper: Very Vanilla (101650), Sweet Pea DSP (117161), Bashful Blue (105120)
Ink: Soft Suede (115657)
Stamps: Well Scripted (118601)
Other: Scallop Trim Border Punch (118402)

Purple Card (design from Stampin' Success):
Paper: Elegant Eggplant (105126), Summer Sun (103124), Whisper White (100730)
Ink: Elegant Eggplant (105210), Summer Sun (100537), Perfect Plum (101437), Whisper White (101731)
Stamps: Circle Circus (115778), Thank You Kindly (120248)
Other: 1 ¼’ Circle Punch (104403)

Anthologies

2010-02-12T21:50:00.000-06:00

About 2 months ago, I discovered a new scrapbooking store in my area called Anthologies. (It's actually closer to Ft. Worth, in Hurst, but a lot of the local scrapbook stores in my area have closed.) I started following their blog and reading about this class they held monthly called "Scrapstashers". The premise of this class is that you are told only a few days before what scraps and supplies you need to bring and in what sizes. You don't find out what you're putting together until you get to the store. I find it exciting to use my scraps and to not know what we're doing until we get there. It adds a mysterious element to the class. Since it takes me almost an hour to drive over to the store, I haven't done any of the other classes. If you're in the DFW area you should check them out sometime. It's a great store with a super nice staff.

Here are the projects from the February Scrapstashers class:

Isn't this little tin carrying case just darling? They called it a "chocolate survival kit" and suggested that we stuff it with chocolate. I don't need to add that tempation to my scrap space so I think I'd better leave it empty!

Supply List (all supplies Stampin' Up unless otherwise noted):
Paper: Sending Love DSP (117153), Pretty in Pink (100459)
Ribbon: Pretty in Pink (117289), Chocolate Chip(117287), White Sheer (Michaels)
Other: Tin (Maya Road tin, the package for their chipboard shapes and letters), Buttons (Oriental Trading), Scissors, Heart Template (cut from Cricut), adhesive

Gift Bag:

I think this is a super cute bag and a great way to use up scraps. It takes a while to notice that it's just a plain brown paper bag. No one would say you're "brown baggin' it" with this cute creation. I also think it will be really easy to use this idea for any season.

Supply List (all supplies Stampin' Up unless otherwise noted):
Paper: Sending Love DSP (117153), Pretty in Pink (100459), Chocolate Chip (102128)
Ribbon: Pretty in Pink (117289), Very Vanilla (117291)
Other: Scallop border Punch (118402), Flower Punch (Fiskars), Brown paper bag (Grocery store), Buttons (Oriental Trading), adhesive

Baby Cards

2010-02-11T16:57:00.001-06:00

A friend at work recently asked if I had any "baby boy" cards and after looking through my stash I realized that I didn't. So, I set out to work. I think I found the reason why I didn't have many- I don't have very many "baby" stamp sets. I've now got my eyes open for sets that could work for babies. Feel free to leave me a comment about your favorite baby stamp set.

Supply list (all supplies Stampin Up! unless otherwise noted):
Paper: Whisper White (100730), Barely Banana (102701), Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper (117161)
Stamps: Baby boy (not SU), Short and Sweet (115060)
Ink: Close to Cocoa (103139), Bashful Blue (105209)
Other: Scallop Trim Border (118402), Paper Trimmer

Gift idea- Coffee samples

2010-02-05T09:44:00.000-06:00

One of my other pleasures in life is saving money. I clip coupons and get pure satisfaction when I save money at the grocery store. I strive for a 40% savings or more :). We were lucky enough to score free tickets to the Mavericks vs Lakers game a few weeks ago and on the way out they were passing out free Community Coffee. Matt and I don't drink coffee so he almost gave his free sample back. Luckily, I was close enough to intercept and knew I wanted to dress them up a little bit and use them as a gift. I have a good friend that moved to Dallas about a year ago from Louisiana where I hear that Community Coffee is all the rage. She will be one of the lucky recipients of my spruced-up freebie.

For those of you that don't have a way to get free Community Coffee samples....what about trying this idea with a packet or two of hot chocolate, or kool-aid for a kid?

Right now I'm really enjoying 3-D altered projects and making something beautiful by recycling something ordinary. It's amazing what a little bit of patterned paper and some embellishments can do to an ordinary object.

Supply List (all supplies Stampin' Up unless otherwise noted):

Paper: Real Red (102482), Sending Love DSP (117153)

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370)

Ink: Staz-On Black (101406)

Punches: Modern Label (116630), Scallop Border punch (EK Success)

Other: Sticky Strip (104294), Community Coffee Samples (free, sorry!)

Desk Candy

2010-02-03T09:51:00.000-06:00

I don't have much on my desk at work, but last May I bought this cool magnetic frame from Creative Memories with the bright idea that I'd make a calendar page for each month and decorate it all cutesy. I even bought the calendar pages to use with it. Fast forward 9 months and I've finally done something with it and brought it to work. I really like the results and it's adding just the touch of cheer to my dreary desk.

Supply List (all supplies Stampin' Up unless otherwise noted):
- Paper: Real Red (102482), Sending Love Designer Series Paper (117153)
- Stamps: A Happy Heart (111758), I {Heart} Hearts (118571)
- Ink: Chocolate Chip (100908), Real Red (103133), Pretty in Pink (101301)
- Markers: Real Red (100052)
- Punch: Small Heart (117193)
- Other: Frame (Creative Memories), Calendar page (Creative Memories), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Rub-on letters (American Crafts), small magnet (Hobby Lobby), small clothes pin (Michael's)

PPA 26 Challenge- Anything But a Card

2010-01-26T09:36:00.000-06:00

PPA (Pals Paper Arts) is a challenge blog led by demonstrators in my Stampin' Up group. This week's challenge was "Anything BUT a Card" and I'm so glad I got my box of goodies in the mail yesterday. Just in time! I purchased the tin mailbox from the $ spot at Target and was planning to decorate it for Valentine's Day. My idea is to put a small something in it each day for the "14 days of Valentine's" for my sweetie. Execution will be the challenge.

Supplies Used:

Mailbox Tin- Target $ spot

Stampin' Up- Sending Love Designer Series Paper

Stamps: A Happy Heart, I {Heart} Hearts- both from Stampin' Up

Ink: Staz-On Jet black, Stampin' Up Riding Hood Red, Stampin' Up Pretty in Pink

Other: Stampin' Up mini Heart Punch, Stampin' Up Stampin' Dimensionals

Baroque Motifs Birthday Gift set

2010-01-25T22:04:00.000-06:00

I put together a set of 6 cards and a matching bag for my friend Calie's birthday last week. I love how versatile the Baroque Motifs set is. I saw this card design on Splitcoast Stampers. The site has become an awesome resource for me. I love how you can search by a stamp set.

Supply list (all supplies by Stampin' Up unless otherwise noted):
Cardstock: Whisper White (100730), Old Olive (100702)
Stamp set: Baroque Motifs (113490)
Ink: Old Olive (102277), Close to Cocoa (103139)
Other: jewels from the $ spot at Michaels, craft bag

A 'scraplift' for my wedding album

2009-09-03T16:45:00.001-05:00

Here's another sketch site that I visit from time to time when I'm looking for inspiration. I really like the way the black, white and red work together. Now I'm thinking it could have been cool to do the whole album in black, white and red, but I think I'm too far in to change that now!

Supplies:
cardstock- red (Creative Memories), black and white (me & my big ideas)
brads- silver (the paper studio), red flower (chatter box)
ribbon- a scrap
letters- rub-ons (american crafts "eddie" font)

It's Baby Season- or so it seems...

2009-08-25T21:21:00.000-05:00

It seems that several of my friends are pregnant right now. Below are a few different projects that I've been working on.

Baby shower invite:
- cardstock from Hobby Lobby- light blue, tan, white
- stamp- baby feet clear acrylic stamp (sorry I don't remember the brand), baby circle on envelope- Studio G
- Baja Breeze ink from Stampin' Up!

Decorated gift bag:
- bag- Michael's
- paper- left over scraps from Michael's packaged pastel paper
- letters- American Crafts rub-ons "Eddie" font
- tools- Fiskars circle cutter

Mojo 100- day 2

2009-08-23T15:24:00.000-05:00

Mojo Monday's celebrated their 100th Monday post last week and featured a new sketch everyday. I couldn't keep up, but here's one day that I did manage to get done. Enjoy!

Supplies:
- ribbon- ribbonFX from Hobby Lobby
- card- DCWV
- paper- Target $Spot paper from a few years ago, scrap from Hobby Lobby open stock textured paper
- stamp- Studio G from Michaels (several years old)

Woof! It's a book about Mia.

2009-08-09T16:16:00.000-05:00

Mia is our 7 month old Morkie (Maltese & Yorkie mix) and we've had her since March. I decided to take a class at The Scrapbook Barn one Sunday afternoon and I thought this was fitting. I've looked at these chipboard word books before but I wasn't really sure how to put them together so I was really looking forward to the class. We used Love, Elsie supplies and I think it has a really fun feel to the book. It was also easier to put together than I had imagined and I think I might do another one of these someday. I think it's my first "complete" scrapbook to date! :).

Supplies:
Love, Elsie dog ribbon set
Love, Elsie dog chipboard buttons set
Love, Elsie patterned paper- "Daisy Blankie" and " Daisy Puppy Love"
Pink Stickles
Cardstock (very likely Bazzill)- Orange, Pink and Yellow

I've got my mojo back- Mojo 98

2009-08-05T13:11:00.000-05:00

Sorry for a few weeks M.I.A. I left my paper trimmer at a scrapbook store and had to make an out-of-the-way trip to get it. oops!

Here's my mojo 98 card

Supplies:

White card base- DCWV

Ribbon- Love, Elsie

Cardstock- pink, red, white (no clue on brand, just basic)

Stamp- Goody, Goody, Gumdrops Hostess Set (2008-2009) by Stampin' Up

Stickles- Diamond, Burgandy

Ink- Stampin' Up Basic Black

Mojo #95

2009-07-16T13:15:00.000-05:00

Here's my mojo card for week #95.

Supplies used:

- Heart stamp is by Chatterbox

- "te amo" stamp is by Stampendous

- Stampin' Up ink Riding Hood Red was used for both images

- Patterned paper is by DCWV

- Ribbon is by Spool 'O Ribbon

My first Mojo Creation

2009-07-10T14:28:00.000-05:00

I recently stumbled upon the http://www.mojomonday.blogspot.com/ that posts a card sketch each week. In order to participate in the challenge they ask you to post a link to your take on the weekly sketch (hence the reason for my new blog). Here's my first card- Mojo #94.

Supplies:

I'm not really great at labeling manufacturers so I'll just list out what I know and I'll try to get better at this.

- Stampin Up! Set- In My Thoughts, stamped and inked in Stampin' Up! Chocolate Chip

- Prima Flower from Michael's (it's actually upside-down), brad by Paper Source from Hobby Lobby

- Satin ribbon- Ribbon by the Yard

- Green and light brown paper- open stock from Hobby Lobby

- Brown card- DCWV set from Michael's