Pastel Friendship Card

Happy Saturday to you! Hey, can you believe I'm posting 3 days in a row now!! Wow! Maybe I can stay on track for a little while again. At least, that's the plan (grin). Ok, on to the card idea...
I've been having so much fun working with the stamps and papers in the Occasions Mini lately. The colors and images just fit me to a T and I just can't get enough of them. For the card today, I used watercoloring with the Calypso Coral ink to get a wonderfully soft look to the flowers. Even though the ink is bright, using just a little bit with an AquaPainter gives it a delicate, porcelain look. See what I mean?

Stamps: Bordering on Romance and Friendly Phrases
Cardstock: Bashful Blue,Calypso Coral, and Whisper White
Ink: Stazon Jet Black, Bashful Blue, Calypso Coral, and Wild Wasabi
Accessories: AquaPainter, Big Shot with Labels Collection Dies, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Dazzling Details, Everyday Enchantment Ribbons and Brads Set, Mini Glue Dots, and Dimensionals

Don't know if you can really see it much in the photo, but the daisy border from the set is stamped along the bottom portion of the card with Bashful Blue ink. It's a subtle accent to the card. Love using those skinny organdy ribbons from the Sale-A-Bration catalog. They just add a pretty touch to the card. Lastly, adding the Dazzling Details to the centers of the flowers adds just a teensy bit of glitz to the card. Everything about this card is soft and understated. Hope you like the idea. See you soon, Sharon

High Flying Father

Wow, posting three times this week! Yah!! Hope I can keep this going for awhile before I run into another 'speed bump' in life. Next Tuesday the ladies are meeting back at church to make the cards for the "From Our Hearts" group to send to our soldiers. With being sick lately, I'm so very far behind in the planning for this month. We need to make some Father's Day cards, so that's what I was working on today. And since masculine cards are my biggest challenge style, it's been slow going today. But these cards are important, so let's hit it! The card I'm sharing today has a little bit of everything - old, new, and contraband - ooops! One of the ladies was kind enough to bring me some neutral cardstock and matching envelopes to use. It was interesting finding colors that worked together with this. The card base is one of the colors she brought. It's a nice neutral tan sort of similar to Crumb Cake. Then I raided some of my old, retired colors of ink to use with it. And then threw in a new (first time used!) stamp set. You just never know what's going to go great together! Stamps: Plane & Simple and Itty Bitty Backgrounds (retired) Cardstock: Early Espresso and Very Vanilla with unknown tan cs Ink: Really Rust, Creamy Caramel, Close to Cocoa, and Bermuda Bay (all retired) Accessories: 1/2" Circle Punch, Sponge Dauber, Piercing Tool and Mat Pack, Sending Love Epoxy Brad (retired), and Dimensionals I love the look of a stamped border along the side of the card instead of using ribbon. Ribbon is just too girlie, so I thought this border would be just a perfect touch. After stamping the items with all earthtone ink, it just called out for a pop of turquoise to liven in up. Hope the ladies enjoy making a dozen of these cards. They should stamp up quickly using this collage look. A couple ladies had ordered this stamp set last month at a workshop one of the ladies held and were asking for an idea for using it. This might be just what they've been looking for. Thanks for stopping by today. Enjoy your weekend! See you in church tomorrow!! Sharon

Spring Forward!

Here it is late at night and I should be tucked up in bed. But I couldn't sleep tonight. Why is it when we're going to lose an hour with the time change tonight and I should be getting to bed early to get enough sleep, I can't keep my eyes closed? Arrrrrgh! So frustrating! So I figured if I wasn't going to sleep anyway, I might as well get a post on here.

I got a couple cards made while trying to figure out what the class projects were going to be for this week. I kept running into problems - like not enough ribbon or dsp to make all the cards, or being short a couple of brads in the right color. Do you ever run into that problem? It was giving me fits! But it did result in a few more samples to show the ladies at my next workshop coming up soon. So that's a good thing, isn't it? Anyway, I finally got my Easter set put together and started creating with it. Hope you like it....


Stamps: Easter Blossoms
Cardstock: Pear Pizzazz, Basic Black, and Confetti White
Ink: Pear Pizzazz
Accesssories: Big Shot with Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Scallop Trim Corner Punch, Pear Pizzazz 1/2" Stitched-Poly Ribbon, Basic Pearls, Sponge quarter, and Dimensionals

I love how subtle the flower stems look on the background because of the embossing. Makes it look sort of like toile fabric which I love.

Did you notice the cute little pearls in the basket? Does this make it look like eggs? Or could this card be used for something besides Easter because I didn't use any sentiment whatsoever on the front? I haven't decided yet if it will be for Easter or not. What do you think??

No matter the reason I choose to send this card, I think it'll be well received. The soft mono-chromatic colors give just a gentle reminder that spring is on it's way. And after the winter we've been having, this reminder is really needed!

Thanks for stopping by. Don't forget to change your clocks and watches forward!
Sharon

Pink Petals

I finally got a chance to get downstairs today. Carson went out like a light right this noon. Sure do love those long naps every once in awhile. Too bad they don't happen every day at a regular time so I could make plans! Oh well, I just need to take advantage of the opportunity when it presents itself. My thought today was to do something with my new Build a Blossom stamp set and the coordinating punch that goes along with it. My, my, they sure do work well together!! I've been purposely not looking at what others are making with this so I could come up with something myself. Now that it's made, I'm not sure about it. Please let me know what you think.

Stamps: Build a Blossom and Teeny Tiny Wishes

Cardstock: Certainly Celery and Whisper White with Certainly Celery DSP

Ink: Pink Pirouette, Wild Wasabi, Daffodil Delight, and Basic Gray pads and Pink Pirouette marker

Accessories: Blossom Petals Punch, 1" Circle Punch, Eyelet Border Punch, Small Oval Punch, Antique Brads, White Taffeta Ribbon, Sponge quarter, and Dimensionals

I didn't realize just how many punches I'd used on the card until I started cleaning up and my table was littered with them! But I must tell you how easy it is to punch out the stamped images. It really made putting this flower together quick as a wink.

Don't know if you can tell from the pics, but I did some shaping on the leaves so they puffs up in the middle of each petal. When putting the flower together, I added a Dimensional in the center of each petal so they would stay pouffed up.

I colored the taffeta ribbon with a marker again. I just love the soft color that gives and then I can have ribbon in any color of the SU! rainbow!!

Ok, now that I've got one card made from the set, it's time to go peruse the Stampin' Connect site to see what everyone else is making. I'm sure they're creations will put mine to shame. But I had fun making it none the less. Thanks for stopping by. You know, I thoroughly appreciate any comments you might care to leave. Have a great day...

Sharon

Cupcake Variations

For those of you that are demonstrators, this idea is a slight variation of one of the samples in our Stampin' Success magazine. (This magazine is one of the awesome perks of being a demo!) Of course, I needed to tweak just a bit. The plan was to use the idea for classes this week and I didn't have enough of the satin ribbon that was used on the original. Not a problem. Just switch it with something that I had enough in stock for everyone to use. Here's the first version.....

Stamps: Create A Cupcake

Cardstock: Old Olive and Very Vanilla with Neutrals Patterns Designer Paper

Ink: Soft Suede pad and Cherry Cobbler marker

Accessories: Build A Cupcake Punch, Old Olive 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, and Dimensionals

I was really pretty happy with the results, but the first person that made the card in class ended up with an ink 'halo' around the sentiment on the bottom. Not a pretty sight. What to do..... Alright, here's a quick fix. Stamp the sentiment on Vanilla cardstock and punch out with the Word Window Punch. Still needed something to cover that 'halo' problem. Ah hah! The Modern Label Punch with Cherry Cobbler cardstock to layer behind the sentiment. Oh yes, I even like this better than the original! (Oh oh, is that blasphemy???)

And here's a shot of the inside of the card. I carried on the hearts ascending theme and added a few here and there. Now I'm really happy with this card idea. Hope you enjoy the changes I made. This new stamp set with coordinating punch is really fun to use. They are 2 of the many featured items in the new Occasions Mini Catalog. If you haven't gotten it yet, let me know and I can send you one. The stamps and accessories available right now are awesome. And you might want to get a few items for yourself before they're gone!!

Thanks for stopping by to check what's new. All I can say is I'm trying as hard as I can to faithfully post, but I know I'm really falling behind. Bear with me, I'll keep on trying to post on a more regular basis!

Sharon

Creating Cupcakes

Oh, I'm having fun making cupcakes - you know, the paper kind! I just received my Occasions Mini order with the cupcake set and coordinating punch. What fun!! Now I can stamp cupcakes, punch cupcakes, or stamp and punch cupcakes. The first card I have to share with you is my first time using the punch and set together. I love how it turned out, but realized I had again used one of my retired ribbons. Dog-gone it! Arrrggghh!! Why are all my favorite ribbons retired???? Well, I'm sharing the idea with you anyway. But keep reading farther along, because I'll share an 'updated, current product' version with you too! Hope you like them....


Stamps: Create A Cupcake
Cardstock: Whisper White, So Saffron, Real Red
Ink: Daffodil Delight, Chocolate Chip, Real Red pads, and Chocolate Chip marker
Accessories: Big Shot with Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Build A Cupcake Punch, Sponge quarter, retired Real Red Polka Dot Ribbon, and Dimensionals

I love the soft yellow and red colors together. They always make be feel happy. So I thought this would be a great birthday card for just about anybody on your list.



But I still wanted to work with just the punch and cardstock without the stamping. So for this card, I used only current products, but kept the identical layout as the first one. Here are the changes....

Cardstock: Whisper White, Bashful Blue, Peach Parfait, Chocolate Chip, and Real Red
Ink: Chocolate Chip pad and marker, and Peach Parfait pad
Accessories: Peach Parfait 1/2" Poly Stitched Ribbon, Personal Corrugater (along with the other items mentioned above)


Other than the obvious changes, it's the same card. But somehow it looks so much more subdued. I guess this card would be more appropriate for that prim and proper auntie.

I have to admit that one of my favorite parts of the cupcake punch is the little cherry. Last night at a workshop, we had a very heated discussion about whether the stem should be there or not, (of course it should - these are the high-priced, fancy cherries!), or whether it should be red or brown (you know they dye the cherries during processing so are the stems red too???). Isn't that the kind of discussions you have during your workshops? Got to admit, it was very animated!! How absolutely silly, but oh so much fun too! All in all it was a night of giggles and lots of laughter. How blessed I am to be in a business that I enjoy so much and love the people I share my time with.

Thanks for stopping by today. Hope you'll come back again soon. :)
Sharon

Challenge Time

Well, the shower is behind me now and I can get back to creating. This week there is a punch class that I'm teaching, so Monday was devoted to finishing up on that. Today I was bound and determined to join in with the Stamping 411 Saturday Challenge this week. Yes, I know it's Tuesday already, so I had to get it made and posted soon. I loved the look of the sketch and thought it would be fun to work with. And was I ever right! Funny thing is, when I finished making the card, I realized that I hadn't exactly followed the sketch. Oh my, what to do? Rip it apart and do some corner punching like the sketch?? No, I decided to let it stay as it is. So be it. It seems like no matter how hard I try, I can never follow a sketch exactly. But anyway, it is a wonderful sketch to work with and will definitely be added to my stash of sketches for those dry times when there are no ideas to be had rolling around in this old brain of mine.

Here's what I ended up making for this week's sketch. I just love the look of Bashful Blue and Chocolate Chip together. And I had a 4" strip of this cool houndstooth pattern left from the quite awesome Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Stack. So let's play with it! And I did!! The Occasions Mini is 0nly current for a few more days, and there's so many things I still want to make using these sets and accessories! Oh my!! Where has the time gone?

Stamps: Vintage Vogue and On Your Birthday
Cardstock: Bashful Blue, Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla cardstock with Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Stack
Ink: Certainly Celery, Bashful Blue, and Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Scallop Trim Border Punch, Modern Label Punch, Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon, Paper Snips, Dimensionals, and glitter glue

I wish the glitter was showing up better in the pictures (don't know why it's not?) But I think the card is really lovely in person and I'm quite happy with it. I felt that I'd hit a drought of creativity lately, and this sketch really helped get me back on my feet again.

Thanks 411 ladies! You have awesome sketch ideas each week and really keep the creativity flowing! If you haven't tried your hand at their challenges yet, go give it a try. You'll have fun, trust me!

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great week and make sure you take time to stamp!
Sharon

Sunday Surprise

That's right. Today I have a surprise for you. Since I've been doing such a hit or miss job on posting this past month or two, I'm going to rectify that problem and give you a bundle. Several of us met on Saturday for a shoebox swap. For my card, I had all the ladies make the punch art tree card I posted on Friday. Today I'll show you all the awesome ideas the other ladies had for us to make. Really great ideas, and we had so much fun together. Sorry you missed out on our time together. Here's what else we made....

Since I'm sharing so many today, I won't be giving you all the details. Just some highlights. This first card was designed by Rose D. Don't you love the fact that the M&Ms match the cardstock and ink?? I've got to get some of these for class. The ladies would love this idea!

Stamps used were from the Something Sweet set in the Occasions mini. You can still get this set until the end of April. The sentiment is this same set too.

Next we have a great idea for the more formal times of your life. Isn't this black & white format elegant? This card was designed by Terry M. It's easy but really nice. Thanks for the idea!

The stamp set used is I {Heart} Hearts and the sentiment is from Teeny Tiny Wishes. Both of these sets are must haves and can be used on so many different occasions throughout the year.

Michelle G. shared this adorable card featuring the Tote-ally Tess set. Wouldn't you love to get this card to help you celebrate your birthday? Love the up-to-date khakis and pink shirt Tess is wearing! We spent time thumbing through the catalog to see how many sets had an imaage we could pair up with Tess! How silly, but it was amazing how many things we found!

The DSP in the background is from the Shades of Spring DSP set. They fit just perfectly with our trendy Tess!!

Next we have a card that started with Phyllis D. but had to be changed up because the Abundant Hope stamp set was left home. So after much consulting, we came up with this version to Phyllis' card. (Hope you don't mind too much Phyllis!!!)

The stamp sets are Vintage Vogue and Well-Scripted. These two sets go together so nicely and can be made with so many different colors. So far I've probably seen over 100 cards made with Vintage Vogue and have liked every single one! This is definitely a must have stamp set - get it before the end of April if you want it!!

OK, last card, but certainly not the least! This lovely creation was designed by Beth O. Perfect spring card, isn't it? And Beth was kind enough to give us a mini tutorial on using the corner and border punches together too that was very helpful.

Stamps used are from the Great Friend set which is one of my favorites. And isn't the Pawsitively Prints DSP used on the background and the Trio Flower Punch flowers on the side just perfect for the card? Love it Beth! It's a winner!!

Well, there you have it. A whole slew of ideas to boggle your mind and start you on a stamping frenzy. At least I hope you enjoyed looking at these as much as I enjoyed making them. Have a splendid Sunday evening and renew yourself before the craziness of the week starts.

Sharon

Two Fer Wednesday

Yes, it's usually two fer Tuesday, but I seem to be a little behind this week. Actually I was only going to show you this first one, but thought you might like to see two variations. This was one of the make and takes at a workshop last Friday night. To be on the safe side, I figured I'd better bring something else along in case someone doesn't have a mother to give the card to. And it was a good thing I did, as several opted for the 2nd version. Here the two versions are. Hope you like them...

Stamps: Messages for Mom

Cardstock: Pale Plum, Rich Razzleberry, and Whisper White

Ink: Rich Razzleberry

Accessories: Big Shot with Finial Press Embossing Folder, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Mat Pack and Piercing Tool, and Rich Razzleberry Polka Dot Ribbon

Here's the 2nd version. Just a small variation with the wording. And on this one, the flower spray was stamped with Pale Plum ink to fill in the large open white space.

Isn't this Messages for Mom set just the prettiest around? Love how soft and vintage you can make it look. Right up my alley. And all the sentiments included in the set make it easy to find just the right words to use. Hope you like it and give this set a try too. I'm sure you'll be able to come up with dozens of wonderful cards with it. In fact, if you do make something with this idea, I'd love to hear from you and see what you've made!

Happy stamping,

Sharon

Stamping 411 Challenge 142

Yes, I know. I'm waaaaaay late on this sketch, but I've been so busy! Actually I'm just thrilled to have gotten a card made in time for a change. Seems like I've been really hit or miss with these sketches for the last several months. And it's a shame because they always have great ideas at the 411 Sketch. As soon as I laid eyes on this sketch I knew exactly what I wanted to use - the awesome Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Pack. Isn't it just the greatest bunch of patterns and prints to work with?? I've pretty much decimated my first pack and I've been pilfering from the 2nd pack already. I've been trying to use up all the first pack before I dive into the newest package, but it's hard. I always have favorites that I want to use all the time! Don't you??

Didn't get much stamping done on this card, but that's quite alright as far as I'm concerned. The colors and patterns make it lovely without a lot of other additions.

Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes

Cardstock: Kraft and So Saffron cardstock with Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Pack

Ink: Chocolate Chip

Accessories: Sweet Pea Felt Flowers, Word Window Punch, Sponge quarter, and Tombow Multi-Purpose Glue

As you can see, the sketch pattern was not followed exactly. But it's pretty close. The ribbon just didn't want to be on the card anywhere, so I deleted that and added the sentiment in the Word Window instead. It seemed a good trade-off at the time.

It's really a great sketch for using up all those bits of DSP that are too big to throw away, but too small to use alone. This was one of the projects at a workshop last night, and the ladies really liked the felt flowers with the matching DSP, and that's really what counts. I love seeing someone who says they can't stamp make a cute card like this and be so tickled about it!! This sketch and the products that Stampin'Up! provides make it easy for anyone to make their very own masterpiece!! So get out your stamps and papers and start having fun!!!

Sharon

Easter Chickie

Are you in the mood for Easter with all the little chickies, and jelly beans, and chocolate??? Yes? Me too! But I don't have and jelly beans or chocolate today. Oh bummer!! So what am I left with? Yup, just those little chickies. So that's what I'm sharing with you today. This is the fourth and very last card from classes last week.

Isn't it just too darn cute? Even before you know that it flips open, it's darling just like that. But then the top of the egg flips up and you get your little chickie smiling at you. (Do chicks actually smile?? hmmm...) Anyway, everyone just thought this was the cutest card ever. And there wasn't even too much grumbling about all the cutting out they had to do either!!

Stamps: A Good Egg

Cardstock: Certainly Celery, Pretty in Pink, Barely Banana, Whisper White, with Tea Party and Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper packs

Ink: Stazon Jet Black pad, Certainly Celery, Apricot Appeal, Barely Banana, Only Orange Markers

Accessories: Soft Subtle Mini Brads, 2-Way Glue Pen, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Word Window Punch, Modern Label Punch, and Paper Snips

Cute, right? Too bad the glitter doesn't really show up on this picture. It's really sparkly and very spring-y looking! How do you like the two different DSP's together? Match nicely, don't they?

Now, I just wish I had a young child to send this card to. Maybe it would work for Uncle Rey - he's in his 80's but is definitely a child at heart and would probably get a kick out of this!

Hope you enjoyed visiting with my little chickie. Have a serene and rejuvenating Sunday so you're ready to face the coming week.

God bless,

Sharon

Another Class Card Doubled

I forgot to show you the rest of the cards from this past week's classes. So far you've seen two, so tonight I'll post another. You'll just have to come back for the last installment of the wildly popular show titled 'Class Cards for March'! Sorry, just being a little silly here! It's been a long week, but a good one. So on with the sharing....

So, what do you do when you've got a head-count for your classes, you've checked on supplies and have just enough of the little accessory pieces and DSP, then someone calls and says they want to come to class and bring a friend. Well, you call one of your downline and beg a sheet of DSP and some felt flowers. You run over there so you can get it, get home, and get it all cut and packaged up. The next day you get another call about more people wanting to come at the last minute. What to do? Turn them away??? Heavens no! It's time to just rethink the project and make a different version of the card for the last group of four ladies. And that's just what happened this week. Now I'm certainly not complaining 'cuz it's great having lots of people coming to classes. It would just make it easier if I knew a little bit more ahead of time so I could be better prepared. But where's the fun in that??



Here's the first version of the card in question.

Stamps: Well-Scripted (Occasions Mini)
Cardstock: Pretty in Pink, Regal Rose, Whisper White with Sending Love Specialty Designer Series Paper
Ink: Regal Rose
Accessories: Big Shot with Scallop Square Clear Die, Wide Oval and Scallop Oval Punches, Scallop Border Punch, and Sweet Pea Felt Flowers






When I got the second phone call about more stampers, this is how I changed the card. I have to be honest, I like the first one better. If I had not panicked, I think I would have changed the card base to Vanilla and the scalloped trim to the Pretty in Pink. Maybe I'll have to give that version a try too. As you can see, there were no more felt flowers, but I had a few more leaves so I used them with the pink corduroy buttons. Oh well, the ladies certainly didn't complain about this version of the card and really seemed to like it. (of course, they didn't see the first version! and don't you go telling them about it either!!!) lol

It's been rainy and chilly here, but we were out running errands today anyway. You know how it is, when you're low on groceries, you've got to go shopping no matter what. And I'm still here so I guess I'm just not sweet enough to melt! Have a great weekend!

Sharon

Sweet Sunday Floral

Today has been a very sweet, quiet day so far and I hope it continues on through the evening. I didn't sleep much last night - just too many things floating around in there. Nothing earth shattering, just stuff. So needless to say, I'm enjoying the quiet today 'cuz I'm only half here. I'm not sure where the other half of me is, but maybe I'll connect back tomorrow and be more like myself! I hope that's a good thing!! lol

Lately my sister and I have been chatting quite often discussing baby shower stuff, and of course the topic always turns to stamping and what we've been making. She's been encouraging me to try my hand at these gorgeous paper flowers that are everywhere lately, and I finally gave them a try. OMG, I am hooked!! (Look what you started Connie!!) They are so gorgeous and touchable. I can't help myself! I just have to go make some more! Here's the first one, but by no means the last! lol

After creating this beauty, I tried several backgrounds and decided to stay very plain so it didn't detract from the floral focal point. I tried faux-stitching, piercing, stamping, etc. but thought simple looked best. So what do you think???

Stamps: On Your Birthday

Cardstock: Whisper White, Old Olive, Pretty in Pink, and Apricot Appeal and Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Pack (love this paper!!)

Ink: Basic Gray

Accessories: XLarge Fancy Flower Punch, 5-Petal Flower Punch, Boho Blossoms Punch, Modern Label Punch, Fire Round Rhinestone Brad, and Vanilla Satin Ribbon.

Like I said, this card is just so touchable! Can you see the awesome texture and softness of the flower? It's all in the smooshing and rolling around the cardstock to create such texture. Since I was so enamored of this creation, I figured all my class ladies would love this technique as much as I do. So what did I do? I made a totally different version of this card for them to try. I just didn't have enough of this cool Sweet Pea Designer Paper left for everyone else!! This is one of my favorite designs in the pack and thus is aaaaaall gone!

So do you think the class ladies will like this technique and want to make more? How can they not!! Now I guess I'll go try making more of these flowers using different punches. Maybe I can make a whole garden of these beauties and have my very own spring here no matter what the weather is outside.

Enjoy your Sunday, and think warm breezes and floral scents from spring. Ahhh, I'm so ready!!

Sharon

Saturday Night Special

Well, maybe not too special, but I wanted to get something posted yet tonight. There are a few cards I've got set aside for those days when I didn't get just too much stamping done. No mojo and not enough time, or something like that. Instead of stamping this afternoon, I stepped out and had lunch with my kids and then did a little fabric shopping. So much fun!! But that led to not much stamping time.

Anyway, this is a card that's super quick to make, and can easily be changed around with any Designer Series Paper pack that you have on hand.


Stamps: Happy Everything
Cardstock: Whisper White, Barely Banana, Old Olive with Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Stack
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Chocolate Chip Sending Love Expoxy Brads, 3/4", 1", 1 1/4", and 1 3/4" Circle Punches, Mat Pack and Paper Piercing Tool, and Dimensionals

If you've got an assortment of circle punches, you can make this card. All you have to do is decide which one of your lovely DSP papers you've been hoarding you want to cut up. lol Or if you've been a good little girl and have been using all your DSP, well then you've got lots of little scraps to use up! Either way, this card will look totally different with each different paper and color combo you choose!

And don't forget to jazz it up with a little bling. I just love, love, love those teeny epoxy brads! So darn cute. But if you don't want to use those, there's plenty of other ways you can add that touch of bling - the sky's the limit! Have fun creating your own masterpiece.

Sharon

After Valentine Blahs

Well, after a crazy and sad week, I'm finally back here sharing with you. Sorry for the long absence. Last week was class week for me, and when you throw in a workshop and a memorial service for a very much-loved pastor, it turned out to be a very emotionally draining week too. I shared some of the projects already, but not the last one. And this one might be my favorite too!

I know somewhere out there I saw something that inspired this card. Not sure where, but if it is your card that inspired me, let me know so I can give you credit.

I just love this new punch from the Occasions Mini Catalog. Isn't it darling? So much fun to punch a bird, branch, and wing out to make a lovely dimensional addition to your card. I had to add the little heart from the I {Heart} Hearts set to top it off!

And the new paper pack, Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Stack is just the greatest! All those lovely prints and stripes in luscious coordinating colors! They're positively yummy!! It was so easy to choose what colors of cardstock to use just by picking colors from the paper designs.

Stamps: I {Heart} Hearts, Whimsical Words

Cardstock: Sahara Sand, Taken with Teal, Old Olive, Whisper White cardstock with Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Stack

Ink: Chocolate Chip

Accessories: Extra Large Two-Step Bird Punch, Designer Label Punch, Small Heart Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, Chocolate Chip 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon, Sponge quarter, and Dimensionals

My advice here is to get this paper pack if you don't have it already. There are so many different color combos and styles of prints in this pack, it will keep you happy for a long time. And did you notice in the close-up that the stripe has a lovely floral over-print in white on it? Very subtle, but it adds just an extra special touch to it. When you use a dsp like this, the card almost seems to make itself!

Hope you like this card and thanks for looking! Your comments are always welcome and appreciated!

Sharon

Tip of the hat to Jan Tink

Why, you ask? Because this design is all Jan Tink's! Can't you just see her creative fingers all over this? Last December we had a Christmas Brunch and Shoebox Swap. This was her lovely creation and I thought it would be perfect for classes. Yes, my lucky class ladies will be making this card in just another day or two to help them get a head start on their Easter cards. Isn't it just adorable? Can't you almost smell that wonderful chocolate? mmmmm Yum! Oh, you didn't come here to smell chocolate? You want some particulars about the card instead? Oh, ok. I'll quit sniffing (and dreaming about eating chocolate!) and get back to work....


Stamps: Chocolate Bunny, Fine Flourish, and All Holidays
Cardstock: So Saffron, Close to Cocoa, Pretty in Pink, Almost Amethyst, and Certainly Celery with Tea Party Designer Series Paper
Ink: Chocolate Chip Craft Ink, and Chocolate Chip and Lavender Lace Classic Ink
Accessories: Heat Tool and Clear Embossing Powder, Pinking Heart Border Punch, Large Oval Punch, Mat Pack and Piercing Tool, Gold Mini Brads, Sponge Quarters, Pretty in Pink 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Paper Snips, and a Dimensional



See how realistic this chocolate bunny looks??? Don't you just want to take a little bite? Nobody will notice. Go on, take just a little nibble....

Hah, had you really thinking about it, didn't I?


Now, where did I hide that chocolate.....?


Sharon

Easter Daffodils in Snowy February

Sure wish these same daffodils were really blooming outside my front door instead of on my card! Actually my in-laws had daffodils just like this growing along a fence on their farm. That was years ago, but I can still see them blowing in the breeze every spring and it makes me feel so young again. Isn't it funny how a memory can suddenly crop up and bring all kinds of feelings with it? Hope you have some wonderful memories of spring and you enjoy this card too.

Stamps: Abundant Hope and Eggcoutrements

Cardstock: Certainly Celery, Lavender Lace, Whisper White cardstocks with Bella Bleu Designer Series Paper

Ink: Basic Gray, Lavender Lace, Certainly Celery, So Saffron, Creamy Caramel pads, and Dusty Durango Marker

Accessories: Scallop Border Punch, Modern Label Punch, Mat Pack and Piercing Tool, AquaPainter, Certainly Celery 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon, and Dimensionals

This card was full of surprises for me. First of all, I didn't think the Scallop Border Punch would fit this border stamp. So I was very pleasantly surprised to find it's a perfect fit. Of course, why would I be surprised when I know Stampin'Up! is always looking for ways to coordinate their products! Woo Hoo!!

My second surprise was how much I like the saffron and white print used on this card. I've gone through most of 2 packs of Bella Bleu DSP and I'm working on the 3rd. And this is the first time I've used this print!! I could never find anything I really liked with it and it just ganged up on me. Now that I see how nice this looks, I'll have to either make a bunch more of these Easter cards to send out or be on the look-out for some other idea I like as well.

Hope you find time to stamp this weekend. When you're reading this I'll be off on a road-trip to Lansing with several of my stamping friends. We thought it was time to check out a few other stores - including a quilting store. I'll be looking for some fun fabrics that I can use my Big Shot and dies to make quilt squares. This is something very new to me, but a beautiful craft I've wanted to try my hand at for quite some time. Since I have several friends that do quilt, I thought this would be a perfect opportunity to learn myself and have them try something new too!! So that means we'll all be learning together. If anything actually comes of this, I'll share it with you if it's not too horrible!

Happy stamping and have a glorious (not too snowy) weekend,

Sharon

I love Love!

Oh, I really, really do! Anything romantic and 'schmoozy' is right up my alley! So it's no wonder that I really enjoy making valentines and look forward to Valentine's Day and anniversaries each year. And with the great stamp sets, wheels, and Designer Papers available from Stampin' Up! this season, I've been having sooooo much fun!

This card is the first time I've used this red pattern from the 'Sending Love' Designer Series Paper, and I just love it! Now I'm going to have to order myself some more because it's all been used up for class projects next week. This will be one of the four projects the ladies will be making. Hope they like it, and hope you do too!

Stamps: Love You Much, I (Love) Love Jumbo Wheel

Cardstock: Very Vanilla, Bravo Burgundy, and Real Red cardstocks with Sending Love DSP

Ink: Real Red, Bravo Burgundy

Accessories: Heart of Hearts Embosslit with Big Shot, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Full Heart Punch, Small Heart Punch, Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon, Jumbo Handle, and Dimensionals

Thought I'd give you a side shot so you can tell how items are layered here. That's just in case you'd like to make your own version of this Valentine for your honey.

Don't the two different prints of Designer Paper go nicely together? It's just so hard to decide which side to use when you like them all!! And did you notice how the Full Heart Punch layers perfectly onto the heart embosslit? It's a nice touch having that little bit of 'ruffle' peaking out behind the pretty print paper.

How about this surprise inside of the card? I pulled an older set for the inside sentiment and did a bit of watercoloring to let the 'love' be the focal point. And I had to add another little heart inside just to make sure the recipient knows for sure that I love him. lol (Just in case he doesn't know that already!!)

Anyway, there you have it. The latest in the Valentine series. There still might be more since it isn't February 14th yet. We'll see......

Happy stamping, and keep spreading the love!

Sharon

Another Valentine

Yes, we're still crankin' out Valentines here in the Motor City. There are just so many different stamps to use, and so much gorgeous paper to try out, and I just can't seem to stop myself!! The one I'm sharing with you today was the make & take at Kathy's workshop on Wednesday. (hi Kathy and all you wonderful ladies!!) I was going to have them make a different one, but then changed my mind that morning and went in a totally different direction with this one. Hope you like it!

This was fun because of the different fold shape and adding the Scallop Trim Border punch on the edges. Wow! What a pretty, feminine card. Not everyone put the 'i love you' inside the card. That was more for the hubbies, and not everyone there is married. But we managed to create something for friends too.

Stamps: I (heart) Hearts, Well Scripted, and Three Little Words

Cardstock: Pretty in Pink, Real Red, and Whisper White

Ink: Real Red, Pretty in Pink, and Chocolate Chip

Accessories: Scallop Trim Border, Acrylic Blocks A, C, D, Full Heart Punch, 1 3/4" Circle Punch, Small Heart Punch, Real Red Wide Grosgrain Ribbon, and Dimensionals

The size of the card is the regular 4 1/4" x 5 1/2", but there is 2 1/2" cut off the front of the card. This lets the pretty paper you stamp yourself show through the front nicely. It's just a little quirky difference that makes it fun and not the same old thing. Even with 10 ladies passing around the stamps, inks, and punches, it went pretty smoothly and everyone had fun. Hope you give this idea a try and send a little love to your honey!

Hugs,

Sharon

Vintage Vogue in Melon Mambo

I was cruisin' around the Stampin' Connection (a site for just SU! demos) and came across a picture of 6 cards made by Laurel Matthew. How cute they were! One of the things I really liked about her cards was the use of 'white space'. So I thought I'd give her ideas a try. I mean, they say that copying is the sincerest form of flattery. I wonder what it means when you start to copy and then take off on a whole different tangent???

The only parts that really were copied are the white space with the Perfect Polka Dot embossing folder, the same stamp set, and the strip of brown cardstock on the side edge. The rest is totally different! It's always amazing to me how a few changes - like colors, style, accessories, and placement on a card can change the whole idea and feel of the card. Hope you like what I came up with.

Stamps: Vintage Vogue and Three Little Words

Cardstock: Whisper White, Close To Cocoa, Melon Mambo

Ink: Melon Mambo, Pretty in Pink, Old Olive, Close to Cocoa

Accessories: Perfect Polka Dot Impression Folder, Big Shot, Buttons Latte', Linen Thread, Melon Mambo Polka Dot Ribbon, Mini Glue Dots, and Dimensionals

I'm so happy with the way this turned out. First try there was only Pretty in Pink flowers in the background. Too blah. So I added some Melon Mambo flowers that were off-stamped to give a softer look. Love it now!

So thank you Laurel Matthew! I loved your ideas and had fun making my own totally different version of your card. I guess that's what stamping is all about - seeing something you like and changing it into something more your own style. My hope is that you, my reader, can use my ideas to come up with your own brilliant creations too!

That's what's so great about this craft. Anyone can do it and feel very creative no matter what their skill level is. And it's so much fun!!! lol Now get out there and do some stamping!!

Sharon

ps - I just noticed I didn't use any punches on this card! Now how in the world did that happen? I normally use punches on everything!