The Unhurried Life

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T11:01:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Here's a quick CAS card that I made for my oldest daughter.

I impressed a piece of white cardstock with my Woodgrain IP and then cut it into strips for the background. Just thought it added a bit more visual interest. The circle is impressed with the Sunshine IP. The tree image is from Hero Arts. Thanks to my friend Barb for loaning me this set:)

Have a wonderful day!

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Who Loves You (Hero Arts)
Paper: White, Kraft
Ink: Sepia (memories)
Other: Woodgrain Impression Plate, Sunshine Impression Plate, Pure Poppy Twine, circle nestability die, copic marker, hole punch

PTI Day 7: Hearts Challenge

2012-02-11T17:23:00.001-05:00

I finally was able to make another card for Papertrey's Anniversary challenges. This has been a busy week and I've had zero mojo. Not a good combination for card making.

Today's challenge was to incorporate hearts into your project. I made a super quick card using all three Mat Stack 5 dies and my Heart Prints dies. The card fold is on the left side. I just offset the Mega die so that it didn't cut through that one edge.

This Valentine is going to be for my sweet daughter. It's just her style. Keeping my post short to day since everything is pretty straight forward.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Tiny Treats Birthday, Fancy Flourishes
Paper: Kraft, Black, White
Ink: Black (memento), Pure Poppy
Other: Pure Poppy felt, Heart dies, Mega Mat Stack 5, Layerz Mat Stack 5, Mat Stack 5, Kraft Grosgrain ribbon

PTI Anniversary Day 2

2012-02-06T11:24:00.000-05:00

The best part of February has arrived! It's Papertrey's 5th Anniversary and the festivities are underway. Today the contest is to use one of the stamp designer's digital images and create a card. I chose Dawn's birthday circle. You can see Nichole's post for the free download.

You've seen this design from me before HERE, HERE and HERE. I guess it's my go-to look when I need a quick card:) I just love using dies to make impressions for quick CAS cards. Once again it was one of the Limitless Layer circles that I impressed on the card base. Just use the tan embossing mat under base so that the die does not cut through.

I printed the birthday image and then punched out the inside with a 1 1/2" circle punch. That left the outside ring which I punched out with a 1 3/4" circle punch. The inside circle is popped up over the buttons.

Have a wonderful day,

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Dawn McVey's 5th Anniversary Digi
Paper: White, black 2008 Bitty Dot pp
Other: PTI buttons, Limitless Layers circles, 1 3/4" & 1 1/2" circle punches (ek success), Scor-Pal, Black DMC embroidery floss

For Your Inspiration #23

2012-02-02T01:00:00.001-05:00

It's time for the next For Your Inspiration challenge! We had so many amazing participants for our last challenge. I hope we have even more this time.

Since this is the first challenge of the month we have a great sponsor -- Kenny K! We each got to choose a digi to work with from the extensive collection. One randomly selected participant from this challenge will win 4 digi stamps from Kenny K. The challenge is open until February 15th so I hope you'll join us!

Here is the inspiration photo:

I don't know what this building is, but isn't it amazing? I was inspired by the blue and white colors and the architecture of the building.

I chose the Milkshake stamp because I wanted a Valentine's themed card and the rays in the background fit with the inspiration photo. I also decided to add a scrap of blue paper behind the Quatrefoil die cut to help the image pop. Once again, I chose to leave a few pieces of the Quatrefoil die in place. I really like the look of that. I enjoyed coloring this image even though I am not much of a "colorer". This is about my limit:)

Please be sure to visit the rest of the DT to see their beautiful cards. The links are on my sidebar.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Milkshake (Kenny K digi)
Paper: White, blue scrap?
Other: prismacolor pencils, copic markers, quatrefoil die, white grosgrain ribbon

Together Forever

2012-01-27T13:57:00.001-05:00

"Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart." Proverbs 3:3

This is the verse for the most recent Stampin' Sisters in Christ challenge. I love this verse and I love the first few chapters of Proverbs. There is so much instruction in there about living wisely. Kris Breach wrote a little devotion about love and her challenge is "to make a heart stand out in your card/project".

Here's what I made for my husband:

I cut the card base using the Mega Mat Stack 4 die. The tree image, from Love and Marriage, is stamped in Berry Sorbet -- definitely one of my favorite colors. I just love the look of the sweet little felt heart against that tree.

Here's the inside:

Hope you all have a blessed weekend!

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Love and Marriage, Love Birds
Paper: White, Berry Sorbet
Ink: Berry Sorbet, Black
Other: Mega Mat Stack 4 die, Heart dies, pure poppy felt, small label rectangle die (quickutz)

PTI January 2012 Blog Hop

2012-01-25T08:00:00.040-05:00

It's the 25th of the month so that means the Papertrey Blog hop is going on. This month we are to choose one of our favorite projects from 2011 and create something new based on that. I chose this wedding card that I made using Harvest Berries. You can see the original post HERE.

This time I chose to use the same colors, but changed it up a bit by adding the negative die cut over the stamped leaves. I used the smaller version of the above sentiment that is found in the Star Prints set. I also trimmed a bit off the card front and punched the border on back of the base instead.

Happy hopping!

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Harvest Berries, Star Prints
Paper: White
Ink: Lavender Moon, Almost Amethyst (SU), Versamark
Other: Harvest Berries dies, silver EP, Apron Lace border punch (fiskars)

One Layer Boy Birthday

2012-01-22T07:00:00.028-05:00

Happy Sunday everyone! I made a simple One Layer card for a few challenges that I didn't want to miss. Week after week most of these great challenges just pass me by, so I combined three of my favorites.

This is for Susan's One Layer Wednesday challenge #75 -- to make a male birthday card. I always need these and never have them on hand. There is also a challenge at Crazy for Challenges #120 to make a child's birthday card.

The awesome color inspiration comes from this week's Colour Q challenge. I just love this color combo.

Blessings,

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Grunge Me, Boy Basics: Rock On
Paper: White
Ink: Plum Pudding, Almost Amethyst (SU), Bahama Blue (memento), Vineyard Berry (CTMH)

Black & White Butterflies

2012-01-21T16:21:00.000-05:00

I finally getting to play along with a CAS-ual Fridays challenge. It's been so long since I've participated. Since the icy weather has cancelled our weekend plans, I have some crafty time! Gotta stay positive:)

The challenge this week was to use only black and white -- not even another speck of color.

Here's what I made.

I had the hardest time getting a decent photo of this that showed the embossing on the black strip. Sorry for the poor picture. The fact that it's an ugly, gray, icy day here doesn't help.

For this card I just used a Martha Stewart butterfly punch and my Black & White Basics patterned paper from Papertrey. The black strip is embossed with one of those thin Cuttlebug folders from the With Love set.

What a great challenge! Have a wonderful weekend.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Enjoy the Ride
Paper: white & black cs, Black & White Basics pp
Ink: black (memento)
Other: MS butterfly punch, with love embossing folder (provo craft)

For Your Inspiration #22

2012-01-19T01:00:00.004-05:00

It's already time for the next For Your Inspiration challenge. I cannot believe how quickly two weeks fly by. Remember, you have until Wednesday, February 1 to join us for this challenge. Just create any project based on the photo below. Be sure to let us know what elements of the photo you drew your inspiration from.

Here is the inspiration photo:

And here is the card I made based on the gorgeous picture:

I used Papertrey's Through the Trees stamp set along with the Alpha Blocks die to create a window card. I love the simplicity of this card. I often find it difficult to create a good sympathy card when I need one, so I'll file this away to have on hand.

Please take a moment to visit the rest of the FYI Design Team to see their lovely projects. Their links are on my sidebar. What a talented team of ladies we have!

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Through the Trees
Paper: Certainly Celery, white (SU)
Ink: Orange Zest, Summer Sunrise, Dark Chocolate
Other: Alpha Blocks die, rustic jute twine

Prayers & Strength

2012-01-08T15:22:00.000-05:00

This is a card of encouragement that I made using my new (to me) Faith and Hope set from Papertrey. Everything here is pretty straightforward. I wanted to keep the card very simple and just showcase the ribbon. I thought I'd try something new with my Mat Stack 3 die and turned it sideways after stamping it in Fresh Snow ink.

This is for two challenges this week:

Stampin' Sisters in Christ #121 -- To make a "Thinking of You" card for someone who needs a lift.
Crazy 4 Challenges C4C118 -- to Do or Use something NEW on your card

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Faith & Hope, Mat Stack 3, Polka Dot basics II
Paper: White, Scarlet Jewel, Pretty in Pink (SU)
Ink: Fresh Snow, Vineyard Berry (CTHM), Pretty in Pink (SU)
Other: Ribbon die (faith & hope), Mat Stack 3 die, 1 3/4" hole punch

For Your Inspiration #21

2012-01-05T01:00:00.005-05:00

Happy New Year! We are kicking off this new year with a new challenge at For Your Inspiration. Not only do we have a wonderful photo inspiration we are also putting out a Design Team call. You'll love being part of this team. Please visit the challenge blog for more details.

Our challenge this week is sponsored by the Wax Fruit Company. There is an amazing prize for one randomly chosen participant -- $15 store credit from the Wax Fruit Company! Us lucky gals on the DT got to choose a digi image to work with from their great collection. I chose Loco for Cocoa.

Here's the photo:

Here's my card:

I just love this sweet little cup of cocoa. The snowflake cookie reminded me of the big beautiful window in the cathedral above. I colored the cup, cookie and hot cocoa digitally and then printed it right out on my white panel. I decided to "decorate" the cookie a bit with some "icing" using white and glitter gel pens. The sparkle is so pretty IRL.

I'm all about keeping things simple so I just added two score lines around the sentiment and tied some twine around the top. Easy peasy!

Hope you'll join us for this challenge. Remember you can make any project based on the inspiration photo. It's not limited to cards.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Loco for Cocoa digi (wax fruit company), In the Meadow
Paper: Dark chocolate, White
Ink: Dark chocolate, computer generated image
Other: dark chocolate twine, Scor-pal, white & glitter gel pens

Several Christmas Cards

2011-12-20T14:49:00.000-05:00

It's almost that time!!! Merry Christmas to everyone in blogland. I've been swamped with birthday celebrations and family gatherings, but I thought I share a few quick Christmas cards that I've made this year. All three of these are so simple to make and easy to mail.

First up, is one that my friend Barb taught me to make. She had seen one similar on SCS so we recreated it using the Woodgrain impression plate and the bow from Bells & Boughs (PTI). The wreath was made with a 1" circle punch and a scallop circle punch (SU).

Next is a simple card using Scenic Season (SU) and the sleigh from In the Meadow (PTI).

Lastly is a card that I made which was inspired by a card my friend Connie made, which was inspired by a card Debbie Olson made HERE.

I wish each one of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Blessings,

For Your Inspiration #20

2011-12-15T01:00:00.028-05:00

I need to start off this post by wishing my oldest daughter a very Happy Birthday! Today she turns 13!!!

I made her birthday card based on our inspiration photo for the latest For Your Inspiration challenge. Here is the picture:

And here is my card:

As you can see I chose to incorporate the colors of the photo. I stamped several white swirls from Grunge Me (PTI) on the purple frame and the numbers to mimic the clouds. The white panel was embossed with the Sheet Music impression plate from PTI.

We've got lots of birthday celebrations planned starting tonight with family, then tomorrow with her friends. Can't believe how quickly 13 years have passed!

Be sure to check out the amazing cards the rest of the DT created for this challenge. Their links are on my sidebar.

I'm also entering this in the Stampin' Sisters in Christ #119 challenge which is to make a birthday themed project.

Blessings,

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Big Birthday Wishes, Grunge Me, "happy" sentiment (unknown)
Paper: White, Tempting Turquoise (SU), Old World mat stack (purple frame - DCWV)
Ink: Fresh Snow, black (memento)
Other: Sheet Music IP, By the Numbers dies, rhinestones colored with copic B05, Top Note die (SU)

For Your Inspiration #19

2011-12-01T01:00:00.025-05:00

Welcome back to another For Your Inspiration challenge. This gorgeous photo is in Brisbane, Australia -- home of our own DT member Michelle. Isn't it gorgeous?

I love the colors in this photo. The slight touches of turquoise really caught my eye. I decided to create a card based on the beautiful hues in the photo.

I just had to use the new Quatrefoil cover plate die from Papertrey. WOW, that makes such a lovely die cut. I purposely left a few of the pieces in the die cut because I thought it had great visual interest that way. I just layered it over a piece of pp from the Guidelines collection and added some satin Lavender Moon ribbon, which I pleated. My flower was cut using various Cuttlebug flower dies and felt.

This card is also for Papertrey's Make it Monday this week which is to pleat your ribbon. I haven't played along with Make it Monday since they first started.

Please be sure to see what the rest of the DT created based on this photo and be sure to join us for this challenge. You have until Wednesday, December 14th to play along.

This challenge is sponsored by Sparkle Creations Rubber Stamps and they are offering two free rubber stamps to a randomly chosen participant in this challenge. Enter your card over on the For Your Inspiration blog and check out the free stamps.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Mixed Messages
Paper: white, guidelines pp
Ink: purple
Other: lavender moon satin ribbon, quatrefoil die, felt, flower 1 dies (cuttlebug), tag punch (MS), rhinestone brad

Flourished Tree

2011-11-26T14:09:00.000-05:00

Here's a fun Christmas card using non-traditional colors. I used the negative die cut from my In the Meadow tree and layered some patterned paper behind it. I stamped the flourishes over the stripes to match the Hawaiian Shores cardstock.

I used the sketch from CAS-ual Fridays 29:

I'm also entering this for Our Creative Corner's challenge to make a project with a Christmas Tree on it
and the Friday Mashup 34 to make a Christmas themed card.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Blessings,

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Fancy Flourishes, Holiday Words (stampendous)
Paper: White, Hawaiian Shores, Spring Moss, Everyday Blessings pp
Ink: Breeze (CTMH), Black (memento)
Other: Tree die from In the Meadow, New Leaf Twine, Rhinestones

For Your Inspiration #18

2011-11-17T01:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Thursday everyone! Welcome back to another inspiration challenge from For Your Inspiration. As always, you have two weeks to play along. Take a look the photo for this challenge:

Gorgeous! Makes me miss Arizona and riding our Harley through the mountains to see the red rocks of Sedona.

Here's my card based on the photo. I went with the sun peeking through the clouds and created this Stampscapes scene. For once, I didn't use the colors in the photo. I'm trying to stretch myself with these challenges.

I wasn't sure how this would turn out when I started, but in the end I really liked the result. The image of the kids running reminds me of my girls rejoicing!

This was created using a variety of Stampscape images on glossy cardstock. First I brayered some color on the top and bottom of the glossy paper using a Kaleidacolor rainbow pad called Baby Powder. Here are links to the stamp I used in case you are interested.

Nature Sheet 7 (path, trees, tall grass)
Crepuscular Rays 115G (sun)
Cloud Bar 119F (clouds)
Oak Branch 203G (tree images on the sides)
Running Kids 230B

Please be sure to check out the rest of the DT projects. Links are on my sidebar.

Blessings,

Stamps: Stampscapes (see above)
Paper: True Black (PTI), Glossy White
Ink: Kaleidacolor Baby Powder, black (memento)
Other: brayer

16th Birthday

2011-11-13T15:39:00.000-05:00

This is for my nephew's 16th birthday. He's the oldest of all the nieces and nephews and I remember when he was born like it was yesterday. There's something really special about the first child born to one of your siblings. I still cannot believe that he's turning 16.

I used the Mat Stack 3 die and stamp set along with Make a Wish additions for my images and sentiment. I trimmed off an edge of the Top Note die cut from Stampin' Up just for something different. I also thought I'd add a bit of a black scalloped circle behind the Mat Stack for some visual interest. Hope that isn't too girly for him:)

This card is also for two challenges: Wee Memories Birthdays and Parties and Card Caravan #6 Birthdays.

Blessings,

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Mat Stack 3, Make a Wish Additions
Paper: White, Black (PTI), blue & red unkown
Ink: Pure Poppy, black, bahama blue (memento)
Other: Mat Stack 3 & Mat Stack 3 Layerz dies, Top Note (SU!), scallop circle (spellbinders)

Paper Dolls Challenge # Whatever

2011-11-06T14:55:00.000-05:00

I'm part of a wonderful blog group called the Papertrey Paper Dolls. For a while there we were on a roll with our challenges and commenting and then we all got busy with other things. Renee posted an easy challenge for us last month so that we can jump start our mojos and participate again. Thanks Renee!

Any other Dolls out there ready to get this group going again? I cannot believe how I fell behind in our challenges. So I am making it a point to do better -- even with the busy holidays coming up. If I keep waiting until I'm not busy, I'll never get any of these done.

Here is my card for Renee's challenge: to CASE Dawn McVey. I chose to CASE the first card in THIS POST that Dawn made for the August PTI release.

I just love the look of New Leaf ink on Kraft cardstock. I don't think it shows up well in the photo, but I also stamped over the leaves in white ink for a subtle shadow effect.

The little white tag at the top of the sentiment panel was cut from the top of the bookmark die and edged at the bottom with the Mat Stack 4 die.

Hope you'll play along with this great challenge too!

Blessings,

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Harvest Berries, BG basics Retro
Paper: Kraft, White
Ink: New Leaf, Fresh Snow, Haystack (palette), White (Memories)
Other: Mat Stack 4 die, bookmark die, corner rounder, button, DMC floss, paper piercer

2011-11-03T01:00:00.003-04:00

It's time for the next For Your Inspiration Challenge! As always you have two weeks to play along with us. This challenge is sponsored by Paper Pretties. One randomly selected participant will win five (5) free digital stamps from their store.

We also have a new Design Team member to announce today. The very talented Vicki Dutcher is joining the FYI team. Have you seen her work? I'm sure you have. I love her style. I also love the fact that she made an awesome tutorial on watermarking your photos using Gimp 2.0. I found that at the beginning of the year and have pointed others to it ever since. Thanks again Vicki! Please stop by and welcome her to our team.

And now for the inspiration photo. Take a look at this lovely shot. I want to live there!

This photo had an Asian feel to me. Maybe it was the clean lines or the fact that the light fixtures reminded me of chopsticks. In any case, I chose to work with the Fan-tastic digi from the Paper Pretties store.

I definitely wanted to capture the lighting of the photo so I sponged two shades of yellow ink on my white paper after printing out the digi. I also sponged a bit of orange around the edges.

Did you notice the reflection at the bottom? Pretty cool huh? I was formatting the digital image in Word and one of the options I stumbled upon printed a slight reflection under the image. I just had to go with that and that's how this card was born. I drew the little floating bridge under the girl and then stamped the tree reflection as well. I sponged a little bit of blue ink in the water for a better effect. The girl image is colored with Prismacolor pencils.

Please be sure to visit the rest of the DT to see how they were inspired by the photo. Their links are on my sidebar.

Stamps: Fan-tastic digi (Paper Pretties), Tree (Stampscapes), Signature Greetings (PTI)
Paper: Black, white, Harvest Gold (PTI),
Ink: Black (memento), Buttercup, Goldrush (CTMH), Dandelion (memento), Brilliance Sky Blue
Other: sponges, Prismacolor pencils, Copic Marker gray

October PTI Blog Hop + WMC #73

2011-10-25T09:05:00.000-04:00

Happy Tuesday everyone! It's time for the October Papertrey Blog hop. Here is the inspiration photo for this hop:

Aren't those fabric pumpkins adorable? I kept the pumpkin theme and the colors and came up with this card.

A couple of pieces of Fall colored patterned paper and a cute pumpkin image and this came together in no time. I'll keep it short so you can keep hopping along.

I'm also entering this into the Wee Memories Free for All challenge for this week.

Blessings,

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: 2009 Autumn Tags, First Fruits
Paper: Vintage Cream, Ripe Avocado, First Fruits pp, 2008 & 2009 Bitty Dot pp
Ink: Orange Zest, Ripe Avocado, Dark Chocolate
Other: Ripe Avocado buttons, Melon Berry button, DMC floss, Apron Lace punch (fiskars)

For Your Inspiration #16

2011-10-20T01:00:00.014-04:00

Happy Thursday everyone! Welcome to a new For Your Inspiration challenge. Take a look at this stunning photo. WOW!! Those colors are amazing.

I based my card on those colors. When I looked at this I knew that I wanted to use Raspberry Fizz and Ocean Tides. There were so many directions to go, and I ended up with this:

This card started with the beautiful scroll-embossed frame panel that was given to me by a stamping buddy. The Mat Stack 1 dies fit perfectly inside the frame to make a simple, yet elegant card. This was the first time I've used the Bloom Builders #3 die. I really love it. I need more time to make a lot more flowers like this:)

Please be sure to stop by and see what the rest of the DT made. Links are on my sidebar.

Blessings,

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Mat Stack 1, Asian Fusion (sentiment)
Paper: Black, Vintage Cream, Raspberry Fizz, Ocean Tides
Ink: Ocean Tides, black (memento)
Other: Bloom Builders #3 die, Mat Stack 1 die, Layerz Mat Stack 1 die, Scrollwork (CB folder), Raspberry Fizz twill ribbon, brad (Target $1 spot), black pen

Psalm 91

2011-10-11T14:00:00.000-04:00

I love this scripture of promise! Psalm 91 is such an encouraging chapter in the bible.

This is for the anything goes challenge #110 at Stampin' Sisters in Christ. You can see the challenge HERE.

For Your Inspiration #15 -- Stained Glass

2011-10-06T01:00:00.036-04:00

Welcome back to another For Your Inspiration challenge. This week we are sponsored by Bugaboo Stamps. I hope you take time to play along with our challenge. One randomly selected winner will receive seven free digi stamps from Bugaboo. You have until Wednesday, 10/19 to submit a project based on the photo below.

Here is our beautiful inspiration photo. It is taken inside the Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal, Canada.

I chose to work with the Flower Block - Tulip image because it reminded me of stained glass. I colored in each flower block and drew some framing lines with Copic markers and a gold paint pen. I was not happy with the results so I started cutting into the base to trim away some of the lines. I ended up snipping away at the base until I was left with only the flower blocks. I added a piece of black cardstock behind the card front to make the images pop. That looked more like stained glass to me.

It's hard to tell in my photo, but the gold paint pen really helps this shine in real life. I also added a few strands of gold / twine cording for more shine.

Please be sure to stop by each of the FYI design team blogs to see what they created based on this photo. Their links are on my sidebar.

Stamps:   Flower Blocks - Tulip2 (Bugaboo digi), Out on a Limb sentiments (PTI)
Paper:   Stampers Select White, True Black (PTI)
Ink:   black (memento)
Other: gold paint pen, copic markers, prismacolor pencils, scor-pal, gold twine

Papertrey September 2011 Blog Hop

2011-09-25T09:00:00.001-04:00

I'm so glad to be joining the Papertrey Blog Hop once again. I was bummed to miss it last time. This month we have a wonderful rainbow colored photo for inspiration.

I love those clean lines and the graphic pattern. Not sure I'd want my floor looking like that, but I do love the photo:) I found a striped chipboard frame in my stash, bought at the Target dollar spot a few years ago, that was perfect for my card.

You'll have to excuse the poor lighting in this picture. It's gloomy here and I couldn't get a good shot.

I used the new Bells & Boughs set to create a fun wedding card. The scored lines help frame the sentiment.

I also added two horizontal striped pattern images above and below the sentiment for visual interest. The solid blue rectangles were mistakes. I actually placed the stamp backwards on the block and didn't realize it until I stamped onto the base. Instead of throwing it out I chose to flip the stamp over (the right way) and stamp pink lines over the blue blocks.

Happy hopping!

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps:   Bells & Boughs, Botanical Silhouettes, Grunge Me
Paper:   Stampers Select White
Ink:   Hawaiian Shores, Smokey Shadow, Pretty in Pink (SU!)
Other: Bells & Boughs dies, scor-pal, chipboard frame (Target), pink DMC floss, pink rhinestones

Onesie Trio

2011-09-23T13:16:00.000-04:00

This is a card I created for my soon-to-be born nephew (any day now!). I have loved all the adorable cards I've seen using Papertrey's Hanging Out clothesline set and dies. I restrained myself from buying it and decide to use what I already have. Novel idea, huh?

This little onesie on a clothesline is from Studio G's $1 sets. I bought about 20 of these dollar sets years ago and never use them. I stamped the onesie three times and then colored them in. I used clouds and the sun from Up, Up and Away (PTI) for the background and the wonderful grass punch from Fiskars too.

This card is also for the Wee Memories challenge this week which is "No Patterned Paper". Since I rarely use patterned paper I could enter nearly every card I make for this challenge. LOL!!! I had to make myself quit buying pp until I use what I have.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Up, Up & Away, Everyday Classics, baby set (studio G)
Paper: Hawaiian Shores, True Black, white, green ?
Ink: Black, Summer Sky (memento), Sunflower, Buttercup (CTMH)
Other: grass punch (fiskars), paper piercer, Copics

One Layer Wedding

2011-09-16T08:16:00.000-04:00

You know I love One Layer cards so I didn't want to miss Wee Memories One Layer Challenge this week.

And did you see that Jenny is doing a HUGE giveaway with awesome prizes? Click HERE to read all about it.

Now onto the card.

This is a wedding card for a family member who is getting married this weekend. The ginkgo leaves are from PTI's Harvest Berries set. I LOVE them!!! They are stamped here in Almost Amethyst and the berries are stamped in silver. That big, gorgeous sentiment is embossed with Silver EP. Look how it shines!

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Harvest Berries, Think Big Favorites #2
Paper: Stamper's Select White
Ink: Almost Amethyst (SU!), Silver (Stampabilities)
Other: Apron Lace punch (fiskars), silver EP

For Your Inspiration #14

2011-09-15T01:00:00.016-04:00

I'm back with the next photo inspiration challenge from For Your Inspiration. I hope you'll join us. You have until Wednesday, Sept. 28th to play along.

Isn't this gorgeous? Don't you want to be there right now? I sure do. I love the colors of the water. Reminds me of home:)

Once again I drew my inspiration from the colors of the photo.

Water = card base & flowers
Cliffs = Kraft layers
Clouds = cream ribbon.

Be sure to stop by and see what the rest of the DT created. Links are on my sidebar.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Year of Flowers Collection, Happy Trails
Paper: Ocean Tides, Kraft
Ink: black (memento)
Other: Linen impression plate, Vintage Cream saddle stitch ribbon, Mat Stack 4 die, swiss dots (cb folder), Top Note die (SU), Copic markers

Play Along to Win

2011-09-07T19:50:00.000-04:00

Don't forget to play along with the ForYour Inspiration #13 challenge for your chance to win $10 gift card to Sweet n' Sassy stamps! You have until Wednesday 9/14 to create a a project inspired by this photo. Easy peasy.

FTL 155 + cQc 100

2011-09-01T14:39:00.000-04:00

I'm playing along with the latest challenges from Clean & Simple Stamping and Colour Q. Both challenge blogs have combined this week for one great challenge. We are to use the sketch and any past colourQ combo. I chose cQc #27. I'm also submitting this for the masculine challenge at Crazy 4 Challenges.

I needed to make a birthday card for my brother-in-law and thought this color combo looked pretty masculine. I had recently acquired some Stampin' Up cardstock from my friend Karol's stash so I actually had some of the colors.

There is no stamping on this card *gasp*. I just ran the suede piece through the cuttlebug with the Happy Birthday folder. I colored in the sentiment with a Copic marker. The balloons are a Martha Stewart punch. I highlighted the balloons and sentiment panel with a orange glitter marker.

This is not a favorite card of mine and I almost didn't post it here, but you've gotta share flops sometimes too. Or do you? Regardless, my brother-in-law will like it just as it is ... and that's what matters.

Paper: Night of Navy, Tempting Turquoise, Soft Suede (SU!), Orange Zest, white (PTI)
Other: YR12 Copic marker, Happy Birthday cb folder, balloon punch (MS) glitter pens, Enchanted Evening twine (PTI)

For Your Inspiration #13

2011-09-01T01:00:00.013-04:00

Welcome back to another photo inspiration challenge from

For Your Inspiration.

We have some new things going on at FYI. First of all, we now have some great sponsors for our first challenge of each month. This week our sponsor is Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps. One participant from this challenge will randomly be selected to win $10 in store credit from Sweet 'n Sassy stamps!

The second bit of news is that we have some changes on the DT. We sadly say goodbye to Valerie and Wanda. We will miss their gorgeous work being part of the team. However, this means that we are welcoming two new DT members! Join me in welcoming Michelle and Peggy to FYI. Be sure to stop by their blogs and say hello.

Okay, onto the challenge:

Look at all those beautiful colors. I couldn't resist using those on my cards. I chose the hummingbird image and a verse from the Hummingbird set. I changed the colors of the bird image using Microsoft Word to reflect the many colors in the photo.

Here's a look at each card separately. I tried a little something different with the yellow one because I didn't like the way the bird image looked in all yellow. Instead I added a yellow oval frame around the lightened image.

The purple one seemed a little dark with the black border strip so I stamped a scallop in purple and added black hand drawn lines.

The other three are the same layout.

I hope you'll join us for this challenge. You have until Wednesday, September 14th to play along.

Be sure to visit the rest of the DT to see what they made. Their links are on my sidebar.

Stamps: scallop strip on purple card -- From Me to You (CTMH)
Paper: Stampers Select white, Orange Zest, Royal Velvet (PTI), Ballet Blue, Barely Banana (SU!), turquiose (unknown)
Ink: purple (memories), everything else is computer generated
Other: doily border punch (MS), corner rounder, zig black pen

CAS-ual Fridays 17

2011-08-27T20:00:00.000-04:00

The challenge for the week at CAS-ual Fridays is to use stickers. Wouldn't you know it, just last Thursday I was cleaning out my room and found nine packs of stickers that I bought when I first started making cards. Nine packs of anything unused is a ton for me so I told myself that I would put them to use. I never use stickers, but I was going to force myself to do it. And then ... the very next day, CAS-ual Fridays challenges us to use stickers!! YIPPEE!!! This may be the only card I make using stickers, but at least I used five of them :)

I made this card for some friends who are about to have their first babies -- TWINS! They are having a girl and a boy so I made sure to incorporate pink and blue. For the sentiment I masked off the word "bundle" on the Congrats stamp and then added "Blessings" from a different set. I used my scor-pal to add an embossed frame around the card front and pierced a few holes for more visual interest.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps:   Polka Dot Basics II, First Fruits, Signature Greetings
Paper:   Stampers Select White
Ink:   Summer Sky, Tuxedo Black (memento), Pretty in Pink (SU!)
Other: baby stickers (Frances Meyer), Scor-pal, paper piercer

CAS-ual Fridays 16

2011-08-22T19:25:00.000-04:00

Just playin' along with CAS-ual Fridays embossing challenge. I sure do love this challenge blog. They have a wonderful DT that offer so much inspiration. Here's my card with a dry embossed strip across the top.

The silhouette image is one I recently inherited from my friend Karol's stash. After she passed away her family gave our little stamping group ALL of her stamping goodies. So many of those items are wonderful reminders of Karol and her generous spirit.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps:   Happy Trails - sentiment, inclinations (Penny Black)
Paper:   Raspberry Fizz, white. black
Ink:   Rosebud (memento)
Other: With Love embossing border (cuttlebug), rhinestones colored with Copic marker

For Your Inspiration #12

2011-08-18T01:00:00.008-04:00

It's time for another photo inspiration challenge from For Your Inspiration. I hope you take time to play along. You have until August 31st to enter a project based on this photo.

I just love the rich and vibrant colors in this picture. Don't know that I'm ready for Fall yet though:) I made a simple one layer card using the colors represented here. I inked up the large vine image from Papertrey's With Sympathy set with my Kaleidacolor Autumn Leaves ink pad. The little flowers are stamped in a blue-violet ink to pull in the color of the sky.

I'm also submitting this for the One Layer challenge on the Less is More blog. I really enjoy their challenges but haven't got to participate yet. This one was right up my alley.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: With Sympathy, Iconic Images
Paper: Stampers select white
Ink: Autumn Leaves (Kaliedacolor), violet (memories)
Other: corner rounder

Masculine 50th BD

2011-08-15T17:53:00.000-04:00

My hubby asked me to make a card for a co-worker who was turning 50. It was really short notice so I quickly made a card. Perfect timing too since Wee Memories is having a Masculine Challenge this week.

When in doubt on a masculine card I reach for striped patterned paper. The 50 was a no-brainer since I had my wonderful number dies from Papertrey. Love those things! My other go-to for man cards is stars.

So this is what I made:

I've had that patterned paper for years. I was happy to cut into it and use some. Why oh why do we buy so much of that stuff?

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Big Birthday Wishes
Paper: White, unknown pp
Ink: black (memento)
Other: number & star dies, tiny mosaic cuttlebug folder

Mehndi Medallion Trio

2011-08-08T17:05:00.000-04:00

Hi all! I'm here today with a trio of one layer cards using Mehndi Medallion. I love this set and its versatility. These cards are CASE'd from Lea Lawson's card here. I loved the fun simplicity of her card when I first saw it.

Aren't these fun? I need to make more of these in different color combinations. Here's a look at each one:

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Mehndi Medallion, Botanical Silhouettes
Paper: Stampers Select White
Ink: Dutch Blue, Goldrush (CTMH) and black, Pear Tart, Dandelion (memento)
Other: rhinestones colored with Copics, corner rounder (fiskars)

For Your Inspiration #11

2011-08-04T01:00:00.001-04:00

Hi again everyone. It's time for challenge #11 on the For Your Inspiration Blog. Look at this vibrant photograph that Steph chose for us this week. I love the colors and went in that direction with my card. I hope you can play along with this latest challenge. You have until Wednesday, August 17 to submit a project inspired by the photo above.

Here's my card:

I used my much neglected Birds of a Feather stamp set from Papertrey. I double stamped the nest with a light and dark ink to make it look more like a messy nest. Do you notice the white birds stamped on the turquoise panel? That was inspired by the clouds in the photo. I used my For Sale Sign punch for the image panels. Kinda reminded me of the shape of the buildings.

What do you think?

Go check out what the rest of the team put together for this challenge.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Birds of a Feather

Paper: Vintage Cream, Black, Tempting Turquoise (SU), green scrap

Ink: Sepia, white (memories), Haystack (palette), Hawaiian Shores, black (memento)

Other: green brads, For Sale Sign punch (ek success), circle nesties

Laurie - Our Gallery Idol

2011-08-01T07:00:00.003-04:00

My fellow Papertrey Paper Doll Laurie Willison is one amazing papercrafter! She made it all the way to the Top 10 Gallery Idol competition for Papercrafts Connection. What a fantastic accomplishment. I am so proud of her. I was a big fan of Laurie's work even before I became a Paper Doll. When I met her in person last year at CHA I was so excited to tell her how much I loved her cards.

Today a few of us Paper Dolls are doing a special blog hop in honor of Laurie. I had so many choices when trying to decide which card of hers to gain inspiration from. Seriously, I could browse her blog for days. I finally chose to CASE THIS card of Laurie's.

Here is what I made:

Don't you love this layout? I needed to make a birthday card for my BIL so I thought this was perfect. I used my Sunshine IP and Star Prints dies and stamps for this one.

I'm also making this card for Michelle's Paper Dolls challenge to make a masculine card. I'm so behind on the Dolls challenges:( Sorry ladies. I'll try to do better.

Here is the list of the other Paper Dolls in this blog hop. Please feel free to play along with us.

Amy (kolling143)

Christy (christea)

Kristin (jcmom04)

Suzanne (*suzanne*)

Katie (choc0holic)

Lee Anne (Lee Anne)

Renee (Renee L.)

Tanna (tfiskers)

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Star Prints
Paper: Kraft, white, Enchanted Evening, 2008 bitty dots pp, textured yellow (unknown)
Ink: black (memento), dutch blue (CTMH)
Other: Sunshine Impression plate, Seeing Stars dies, corner rounder (fiskars), circle nestabilities, 1 3/4" circle punch & star punch (ek success)

Stamp-A-Faire Fun

2011-07-28T10:12:00.000-04:00

Just thought I'd share my pictures from a fun weekend at Papertrey's Stamp-A-Faire event. Everything was wonderful and well planned. The best part was meeting fellow bloggers and forum friends. The Papertrey Ladies were as sweet as ever. It was great to meet Lisa Johnson and Betsy Veldman since they were not at CHA last year.

Here's Christina, Suzanne, Chere, Jessica and myself after dinner on Friday night. Our hotels were near each other so we decided we couldn't wait until Saturday morning to meet in person. This group makes me wish Boston was much closer to Indiana. We could have tons of fun hanging out.

Saturday morning we jumped right in to five make-n-takes. There were five more in the afternoon. Here are Suzanne and Jessica getting some tips from Lisa Johnson. Christina is stamping away on the other side. You can get a little sneak peek of the shape of the new Papertey ink pads next to Christina's hand.

Here is a fantastic group of women who were seated at the table next to us. Just look at this amazing bunch. I really needed more time to chat with each one of them. It's Lizzie, Melissa, Anne, Cheryl, Denise and Amy.

Lizzie brought this enormous roll of foam tape with her! I didn't even pack my ATG gun because I thought it would be too bulky. It gave us all a good laugh.

On Saturday evening a few of us went to dinner together and then had a little Graeter's ice cream afterwards. We couldn't resist even though we were supposed to go the dessert reception in two hours. From left to right: Christina, Lizzie, me, Jessica, Taheerah, Lynn, Maureen, Suzanne and Chere. Did you notice we have another face amongst the group? LOL!!! It cracked me up when I got home and looked at my pictures. That's totally something I would do when I was in high school. Believe me, growing up in Hawaii gave me plenty of opportunities to be in tourist's photos:)

You may wonder who was taking this picture of us...none other than Lizzie's fantastic husband, Sean. He had at least five cameras / iphones in his pockets and hands when we started. Once he gave me back my camera I had to snap this shot.

Back at the dessert reception we mingled with everyone and watched some very excited people win prizes.

Me & the amazing Lisa Johnson

Sweet Anne from Ireland

Amber won a prize and it was her birthday.
Nichole led us in singing Happy Birthday.

Two of he funniest gals you'll meet: Suzanne and Rose from Canada.
Thanks for driving us around on Saturday Suzanne! Good times.

Black & Vellum

2011-07-27T20:28:00.000-04:00

This is a card I made for the latest challenges from Stampin' Sisters in Christ and Our Daily Bread Designs. The Stampin' Sisters in Christ challenge #99 is to create a card that depicts the sharp contrast between black and white or ivory. ODBD Shining the Light Challenge #69 is to use piercing on your card.

I tried something new with the sentiment panel and I'm not sure I like it, but I decided to keep it. I simply cut one of the labels 10 die cuts in half and flipped one over to layer behind the other. Oh well, here's to trying something new:)

Stamps: Path of Life & Scripture collection 1 (Our Daily Bread Designs)
Paper: black cs, vellum
Ink: black (memento)
Other: rhinestones (kaisercraft), paper piercer, Labels 10 (spellbinders)

Papertrey Ink July Blog Hop

2011-07-25T10:45:00.001-04:00

I'm so glad I'm finally getting to play along with the Papertrey Blog Hop. I've missed the last two or three. This month we had a lovely inspiration photo to work from. Check this out:

I focused on the colors and the quilt print. My new Iconic Images stamp set from Stamp-A-Faire was perfect for this hop. I used several of the medallions to make a quick 5-minute CAS card.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless noted

Stamps: Iconic Images
Paper: Hawaiian Shores, white
Ink: Orange Zest, Hawaiian Shores, Spring Moss, Ripe Avocado, Dark Chocolate
Other, orange pearls (recollections), corner rounder (fiskars)

For Your Inspiration #10

2011-07-21T01:00:00.020-04:00

It's time for the next For Your Inspiration challenge! Steph has chosen a gorgeous and breathtaking scene. Please join us for this great challenge. You have until August 3rd to play.

I was immediately drawn to the steps and wanted to mimic those on my card. I also wanted to include the fall leaves.
This is a 4 x 6 card.

I created the lines by masking off the white panel with a large post-it note and sponging lightly using Basic Gray ink. I started at the bottom and worked my way up.

They branches are stamped on vellum and sandwiched between the white die-cut panel and red frame. The black line on the card base is hand drawn with a black pen and ruler. I added some red pearls to finish it off. I decided to create a coordinating envelope too. I should take time to do this more often.

I'm also entering this in the Wee Memories CAS challenge.

Thanks for stopping by. Let me know what you think.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless noted.

Stamps: Out on a Limb & Additions
Paper: white, pure poppy, vellum
Ink: Dark Chocolate, Terracotta Tile, Orange Zest, Pure Poppy, Basic Gray (SU!)
Other: Mat Stack 5 die, black zig pen, ruler, red pearls (recollections), post-it, sponge

Papertrey Paper Dolls #40

2011-07-11T17:36:00.000-04:00

Hi all! I'm here today with a quick birthday card for Deena's Papertrey Paper Dolls challenge. She made it easy on us and asked us to use a background stamp.
I love these musical score stamps and have not used them near enough.

After stamping the background I die cut the sentiment panel from True Black cs using the Mat Stack 2 die. I stamped the coordinating image in white ink and then heat embossed the sentiment. I added some Enchanted Evening buttons, pearls and black satin ribbon to finish this off.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: BG basics: sheet music, Mat Stack 2, birthday basics
Paper: Blueberry Sky
Ink: black (memento), white (memories), versamark
Other: white EP, Mat stack 2 die, black stain ribbon, ee buttons, pearls (michael's)

For Your Inspiration #9

2011-07-07T01:00:00.002-04:00

Isn't that a stunning photo? This is the inspiration photo for challenge number 9 at For Your Inspiration. I really hope you play along with us. You have until July 20th to submit a project inspired by the picture above. I would love to see what you come up with.

Here's my take:

I was so drawn to those windows with all the colored lights. I knew right away I wanted to incorporate that into my card. Shapes by Design by Papertrey Ink was the perfect stamp set for my purposes. It was one of the first PTI sets I ever bought. I still love the clean lines and geometric shapes in the set.

I stamped the block image twice across the card and colored it in with Copics. The colorful circle image is from the same set and colored with the same Copics. I cut a piece of Spring Rain Twill Tape in half to border the design. The flower is cut out of Spring Rain cardstock using a blossoms two nestie die.

Please visit the rest of the FYI design team to see their gorgeous creations.

I'm also including this in the Stampin' Sisters in Christ CAS challenge. Peggysue has a written a great reflection for this week. Let's all take time to Be Still and listen for that gentle whisper.

Our Creative Corner Guest DT

2011-06-25T04:00:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited to be a Guest Designer for Our Creative Corner today! What a huge honor. Back in May I was awarded the Top Talent honor for this challenge and a future guest DT spot. Here is the current challenge:

DT Call Week - Your Style.
Create a project that best showcases your own personal crafting style!

How fun and simple is that? Be sure to enter for a chance to be part of an incredibly talented DT.

I went with my go-to style: CAS.

Aahhh ... Kraft on Kraft. I just love that look. The morning glories are from Papertrey's Year of Flowers Collection. I colored them with prismacolor pencils and baby oil. The sentiment is from Damask Designs. It's difficult to see in the photo, but the Top Note die cut was embossed using the linen / canvas impression plate from PTI.

Thanks for visiting! I hope you play along at Our Creative Corner!

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Year of Flowers Collection, Damask Designs
Paper: Kraft
Ink: Black (memento)
Other: Mat Stack 4 die, blueberry sky grosgrain ribbon, canvas/linen impression plate, rhinestones (Kasier), black brads (making memories), Top Note die (SU!), corner rounder, prismacolor pencils, baby oil

Color Blocking

2011-06-22T12:55:00.000-04:00

Happy Wednesday everyone! I couldn't resist playing along with the CAS-ual Friday challenge this week. I love this new challenge blog, but haven't had a chance to participate the last few weeks. Blogger won't let me add the challenge logo, but go here to the CAS-ual Fridays blog to see what the color block challenge is all about.

I used the sketch 145 from the clean & simple blog for my layout.
I chose to use scraps from my 2008 Bitty Dot pp for the color blocks. This way I can finally complete the Paper Dolls challenge from Suzanne:) We are to use patterned paper everywhere except the base. Sorry it took me over a month to get this done Suzanne.
I also added some faux stitching to the sentiment panel so that I could play along with the Stampin'Sisters in Christ doodle challenge.

This card went together so quickly. I should make a few more of these, but I probably won't. I always lose interest when I try to mass produce cards. Does that happen to anyone else?

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Beautiful Blessings, Everyday Blessings
Paper: white cs, 2008 bitty dot basics pp
Ink: Orange Zest, Sky Blue (memento)
Other: black pen (helix), red pearls (recollections)

For Your Inspiration #8

2011-06-16T01:00:00.033-04:00

It's time for another challenge from For Your Inspiration! Check out this stunning photograph.

I really struggled to do justice to this beautiful picture. I had a few different ideas and didn't like the way they turned out so I went with my "nearly fail-proof" Stampscapes. I used 4 different stamps for the scene.

I created a little cove where the crisp, cool water reflected the sky. It reminded me of the area where we used to live in Arizona. There are some gorgeous granite rock formations there with lakes tucked in between them.

When I first colored the little lake it looked flat so I tried to "fix" it. Didn't help:) In the end, I used my craft knife and cut out the existing lake. I stamped another scrap with the cloud image and shaded it a bit with colored pencils, then attached it behind the panel.

Be sure to play along with this latest challenge. You have until June 29th to join us at FYI!

Stamps: cloud (cumulus), meadow lg., pines & rocks, ledge (all Stampscapes), sentiment -- Men of Life (PTI)
Paper: Stampers Select White, Blueberry Sky (PTI), green
Ink: ripe avocado (PTI), Sky Blue (memento), sepia (memories), indian corn blue (CTMH)

Bloom Where You're Planted

2011-06-07T16:13:00.001-04:00

Today is the last day of school!! My 3rd grade daughter had the best teacher ever this year. I love her to pieces and wanted to create a special thank you card for her. Her classroom decor is a "garden" where the students bloom and grow. She has a banner that says "Bloom Where You are Planted" so I knew I wanted to use this sentiment.

The poppies were inked with yellow and the edges were inked, rock and roll style, with Orange Zest. I love how they turned out.

I based my card on the Card Patterns sketch this week:

I'm also entering this into the Stampin' Sisters in Christ challenge #92 to use something new since I just got the anniversary set in my hands. This is the first image I inked up:)

Stamps: Botanical Silhouettes (2010 anniversary set -- PTI), Tag-it's 3
Paper: White, Orange Zest, 2008 Bitty Dot pp (PTI), green scrap
Ink: Orange Zest, Ripe Avocado (PTI), Black, Dandelion (memento)
Other: apron lace and grass punch (fiskars), Summer Sunrise swiss dot ribbon (PTI)

For Your Inspiration #7

2011-06-02T01:00:00.002-04:00

Welcome to the seventh For Your Inspiration challenge!! You have until June 15th to play along. Here is the gorgeous photo for this week:

Isn't it just beautiful? I created my card based on the colors of the sky and water. I simply sponged several ink colors on a quarter sheet of white cardstock, then die cut it with the largest Labels 18 die from Spellbinders.

Once it was cut I stamped it in versamark with the largest stamp from Bird and Butterfly Labels by ODBD.
I heat embossed it with clear EP then sponged more colors onto the butterflies, grass and wildflowers.
Stamped the sentiment in the oval
Used Labels 18 again to cut a leftover piece of blue mulberry paper
Stamped a few wildflowers in the corner of the card base
Used gold paint pen to trace around die to create a frame (to emulate the lights in the photo)
Added three gold pearls for a final touch

Here's a close up of the embossing:

Hope you all are having a wonderful week. Don't forget to check out the beautiful cards by the rest of the DT:

Stamps: Bird and Butterfly Labels (ODBD), Everyday Blessings (PTI), Silhouettes (Inque Boutique)
Ink: variety, white (memories), versamark
Paper: True Black, white (PTI), Mulberry
Other: Labels 18 (spellbinders), gold paint pen (marvy), gold pearls, clearstar glitter pen, clear EP

For the Graduate

2011-05-31T11:30:00.000-04:00

Here's a quick CAS graduation card that I made for my niece. Just perfect for this week's CAS-ual Fridays challenge. I went with my favorite standby layout for a great CAS card -- using impressed images and scoring for detail. You can see more cards that I made like this HERE and HERE.

I used her school colors and a strip of metallic paper that I trimmed off of her announcement. The "memories" stamp is from Inque Boutique's Circle It set. The red layer is a 1 1/2" circle punch stamped with an image from PTI's 2009 Autumn Tags set and the little sentiment is from PTI's Mixed Messages.

Here's a close up:

Thanks for visiting!

All Supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Mixed Messages, 2009 Autumn Tags, Circle It (inque boutique)
Paper: Stampers select white
Ink: Pure Poppy, Dutch Blue (CTMH)
Other: Limitless Layer dies, Scor-Pal, 1 1/2" circle punch (ek success), rhinestones

Karol

2011-05-28T15:15:00.000-04:00

Yesterday my friend and stamping buddy Karol went to be with the Lord. She was the friend who had been undergoing intensive chemo treatments recently.

Karol was one of the sweetest women I knew. She always, without exception, made us laugh and laugh whenever we got together to stamp. The best part was that she wasn't even trying to be funny. She was just being her wonderful self and it brought us such joy.

Here is a picture of me and Karol take a year ago after a fun day of cardmaking. She will be missed.

Here is the card I put together to give to her family:

I colored the glads with prismacolor pencils and baby oil then scored two lines for a "frame". Kept it simple.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Year of Flowers: Gladiolus, Damask Designs (sentiment)
Paper: Plum Pudding, White
Ink: black (memento)
Other: Linen/Canvas impression plate, scor-pal, prismacolor pencils, baby oil

Papertrey Paper Dolls #38

2011-05-26T05:00:00.026-04:00

It's my turn to host the newest challenge at the Papertrey Paper Dolls Blog. Have I mentioned how much I love being a part of this amazing group of women? Not only are they super talented, but they are so generous and kind-hearted too.

Okay, on to the challenge:

It's the start of wedding season! Anyone attending any weddings this summer? Even if you don't have a wedding to go to you'll probably need lots of anniversary cards on hand for all the weddings you previously attended.

I'm issuing a simple challenge to make either a wedding or an anniversary card!

My husband and I are going to a wedding this Saturday. I created this card based on the colors of the gorgeous wedding invitation -- black & white with a splash of aqua.

The aqua flower is cut from a sheet of mulberry paper and then stamped. I just layered three different die cuts to create the blossom. I used the Victorian Lace border die for my scalloped flap and added some pearls to dress it up.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: In Bloom, Giga Guidlines (sentiment)
Paper: True Black, white, mulberry paper (remember when)
Ink: black (memento), tropical blue (rubber stampede)
Other: Victorian Lace die, In Bloom dies, pearls (michael's)

May 2011 PTI Blog Hop + CFC #3

2011-05-25T08:00:00.002-04:00

It's time for another Papertrey Blog Hop. This time it's all about flowers. How could I not play along? I always say that I'm not buying any more flower stamps and then Nichole and the Papertrey DT make some incredible projects with the new flower sets. Into my cart they go:)

For this card I used my Sending You set. I love these unique flowers. I chose to stamp the largest blossom on a piece of adhesive cork that I cut out with one of the dies from Limitless Layers.

I added some yellow glitter to the center of the flower and a rhinestone colored with my R35 copic marker for some bling. This is also for CAS-ual Fridays latest challenge: Bring the Bling. I LOVE this new challenge blog!

I'll keep it short since you are hopping along. Have a wonderful Wednesday!

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Sending You, Tag-its 3
Paper: white, black, berry sorbet, green (unknown)
Ink: Berry Sorbet, black (memento), Glue pad (tsukineko)
Other: adhesive cork (JoAnn's), branch die (sizzix), Picnic Plaid IP, yellow glitter (Martha Stewart), gemstone, copics

FYI Challenge #6

2011-05-19T01:00:00.028-04:00

Happy Thursday everyone! Today it's time for the next For Your Inspiration challenge. I've recently been asked to join the DT for this new challenge blog!! I'm so thrilled to be a part of such a wonderful group of stampers. Keva Brown and Debby Hughes are new to the DT too.

Here is the photo inspiration for this week. Please join us in creating a project based on this photo. You have until June 1st to play!

Here's my card:

Once again I went with a literal interpretation of the photo. These inspiration challenges are a real stretch for me -- guess that's why they are called challenges, huh?

I started with a Blueberry Sky base and embossed two clouds using my cloud dies from Up, Up & Away. Then I stamped inside them (and around the base) with fresh snow ink. The balloons are cut from a sheet of pp from the Polka Dot Parade collection and colored with Copics. For the red balloon, after coloring I stamped it again in white ink with the solid balloon stamp from the same set.
This will be another card for my sweet friend who is undergoing an intensive cancer treatment right now.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Up, Up & Away, Everyday Button Bits
Paper: Blueberry Sky, white, polka dot parade pp
Ink: Fresh Snow, Pure Poppy, black (memento)
Other: Up, Up & Away balloon and cloud dies, blue gemstones, paper piercer, copics

Embedded Embossing

2011-05-13T13:00:00.003-04:00

I wanted to be sure to join the ODBD challenge to create a card using "embedded embossing". My friend and fellow challenge chaser Silke Ledlow did a photo tutorial on this technique. Isn't her card amazing? I didn't want to miss out on this one. **EDITED** Because of the issues with Blogger I ended up missing out on the challenge:) Just gotta laugh about it.

I used the colors from the current Play Date Cafe challenge: PDCC81. The stamped images are from Bird & Butterfly Labels (ODBD). They coordinate with Labels 18 dies from Spellbinders.

I first stamped the flourishes using silver pigment ink. After cutting, stamping and adhering the three die cuts, I ran the whole card through the cuttlebug and embossed the front with Papertrey's Picnic Plaid impression plate.

Stamps: Bird & Butterfly labels (ODBD), Fancy Flourishes (PTI), Tag-its #3 (PTI)
Paper: white (PTI)
Ink: pear tart (memento), silver (stampabilities), purple (memories)
Other: Labels 18 (spellbinders), picnic plaid ip (PTI), ribbon (hobby lobby), corner rounder

Bring On the Day

2011-05-11T16:10:00.000-04:00

Aloha everyone! Here's a cheery card that combines a few challenges on my list. Another 3-in-1 card:)

The color inspiration for this card comes from Jen Carter's great inspiration challenge on the Paper Dolls Blog using this photo below. Isn't it beautiful? I chose the Papertrey colors of Hawaiian Shores, Lemon Tart, Simply Chartreuse and Pure Poppy. I don't know why the Lemon Tart doesn't look yellow in this photo:(

I created this card using the Selective Inking technique from the Papertrey Make it Monday challenge this week. I used two sentiments from Big Birthday Wishes and inked up the words I wanted. The original sentiments are "bring on the happy" and "birthday". As you can see I masked off the happy and birth in each sentiment. I also selectively inked up the little cupcake from the Everyday Classics anniversary set. The stamping on the bottom of the Lemon Tart panel combines images from two background sets -- Tin Types (pure poppy) and the single design stamp from Retro (hawaiian shores).

My layout is from the Clean & Simple blog: FTL139. I just love their sketches.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: BG Basics: Tin Types, BG Basics: Retro, Big Birthday Wishes, Everyday Classics
Paper: Hawaiian Shores, Lemon Tart, Black
Ink: Pure Poppy, Hawaiian Shores, Pear Tart (Memento), Black (Memento)
Other: Simply Chartreuse saddle stitch ribbon, New Leaf & Pure Poppy Twine, Linen/Canvas impression plate, photo hanger (CTMH), red pearls (recollections)

For Your Inspiration #5

2011-05-08T20:10:00.000-04:00

I decided to play along with the FYI challenge this week when I saw this gorgeous photo. I knew right away what card I wanted to create.

I took a literal interpretation from this photo and created a scenic card with a church, clouds and grass. Of course my little country church is quite humble compared to that cathedral.

I loved Stampscapes stamps! I have a few and I just don't spend enough time playing with them. Gotta remedy that. I stamped the church scene and the tall grass in the foreground in Memento black and the clouds in Memento Sky Blue. I used Prismacolor pencils and Copics to color in the grass.

This card was sent off to a special stamping buddy who is in the hospital undergoing some pretty rigorous chemo treatments right now.

One Layer Text Circles

2011-05-06T11:46:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday!! I've set aside some time today just for cardmaking! Boy do I need that. I made a fun one layer card for a few recent challenges that I did not want to miss out on.

Papertrey's Make it Monday: Impression Plate Tricks
CAS-ual Fridays: CFC1 Texting Skills
Simplicity Blog: OLW52 Round and Round
Our Creative Corner: Fab Floss

How fun is this technique? If you haven't seen the video tutorial on how to do this visit the Papertrey link above. I used the Book Print IP with some Spellbinders Circle Nesties. I love the look of the stamped images from Grunge Me over the text impression. I twisted some black and pink floss together to finish off the card.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Grunge Me

Paper: Raspberry Fizz

Ink: Black (memento)

Other: Bookprint Impression plate, circle nestibilities (spellbinders), DMC floss, corner rounder

Mother's Day Leaf

2011-05-03T12:19:00.000-04:00

Here's a simple card using the negative of my Sizzix leaf die cut from this card. When I knew I wanted a leaf for that thank you card, I couldn't bring myself to cut into a brand new sheet of New Leaf paper (silly, I know). I made a card base and cut it this way, knowing I would turn it into a card.

I adhered a piece of patterned paper from the Guide Lines collection to the inside of the card front, stamped the sentiment and wrapped some pretty ribbons around it. I also decided to add a few stacked silk flowers and a Lavender Moon button.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Delightful Dahlia
Paper: New Leaf, Guide Lines pp
Ink: black (memento)
Other: lavender moon ribbon, lavender moon button, silk flowers (Michael's), black & pearl ribbon (Hobby Lobby), Sizzix Branch w/leaves die, corner rounder

April 2011 Papertrey Blog Hop

2011-04-25T10:28:00.003-04:00

It's time for another Papertrey Blog Hop. This one is for the men and boys in our lives. The theme is to make a masculine card or project.

This also fits the Make it Monday challenge for this week (line frame)! Score!

I made this card for my dear nephew's 2nd birthday this week. It was hard to choose between the new rocket set and this Frog Hop set. I kept it pretty simple and flat since it has to be mailed. I did some slight shading and made some spots on the frog with Copic markers. The black frame is drawn by hand.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless noted.

Stamps: Boy Basics: Frog Hop
Paper: white, ocean tides, ripe avocado, black, bright green (unknown)
Ink: Ripe Avocado, Black
Other: Frog Hop dies, limitless layers circle dies, rick rack die, Cuttlebug Bubbles embossing folder, Zig marker, ruler

Gift Card Thanks

2011-04-20T09:29:00.000-04:00

Paper Dolls Challenge #34
Okay so I'm a month behind on this challenge. Yes, I know there really is no time limit but I told myself that I would get each Paper Dolls challenge done within the first month. I'm already falling behind.

This is for Cecilia's gratitude challenge. You can read about it HERE. Basically we are to create a simple thank you card and use a background stamp.

I chose to stamp the large flower from the 2008 PTI anniversary set Everyday Classics as my background image. I also wanted to have the bright Springy color of New Leaf included so I used it as my card base and for the leaf die cut. This is a Sizzix die that I really love.

I stamped an image from Mat Stack 2 on the Mat Stack 1 die cut. I didn't intend for the image to turn out like that but I liked the look of my mistake:) I first stamped the image in versamark and then New Leaf ink because I wanted to emboss the frame. Well, it didn't work, but I was left with a cool looking distressed frame. I added a little flower gem from Michael's and some lace trim to finish off the card front.

Since I needed to make a thank you card to go along with a gift card I was giving, I just turned this card into a gift card holder by creating a little pocket from a leftover piece of the background paper. Here's the inside:

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Everyday Classics, Mat Stack 2, Mat Stack 4 (sentiment)
Paper: New Leaf, white, Sweet Blush
Ink: Sweet Blush, New Leaf, Hollyhock (CTMH), Versamark
Other: Mat Stack 1 die, Sizzix leaf die, gem flower, rhinestone, lace, corner rounder

ODBDSLC57 No Coloring

2011-04-17T16:08:00.000-04:00

Have you seen the latest release from Our Daily Bread Designs? I loved so many of their new stamps. I broke down and purchased some scriptures and this Bird & Butterfly Labels set. It coordinates with Spellbinders Labels 18!

This week's challenge from the ODBD blog is create a project with no coloring. You can read about it HERE. Not a problem for me since I'm not much of a colorer. Here's my card:

The base is True Black cs cut from the largest Labels 18 die. I sponged Hibiscus Burst around the image panel and added a little Martha Stewart doily behind it for more detail. Pretty quick & easy card.

Stamps: Bird & Butterfly Labels (ODBD)
Paper: true black, hibiscus burst, white (PTI)
Ink: hibiscus burst (PTI), black (memento)
Other: Sheer White Polka Dot ribbon (PTI), Labels 18 (spellbinders), doily (MS)

Golden Anniversary

2011-04-14T15:19:00.000-04:00

This card was made by special request. One of my husband's co-workers asked me to make a 50th Wedding Anniversary card with specific wording; therefore, the sentiment was computer generated.

Since she didn't make any specific color requests I chose this textured pp from DCWV's Old World Mat Stack. I've had it for years and seem to forget about it. I embossed some flourishes on it using Ranger's super fine detail gold EP. Love that stuff.

After I cut the sentiment panels out with my Labels 10 nesties I traced the smaller one with a gold paint pen. Then added some tiny gold pearls.

Here's the inside with the requested wording:

It was so nice to get a special order card. She loved the end result and actually paid me double what I had asked for! Can't argue with that:)

HEC #16 + CPS 211

2011-04-02T17:44:00.000-04:00

Ted has issued his challenge for April and I wanted to be sure to play along. It was very easy to get started right away on this one because I had my purple and green scraps out from the last card. So HERE is Ted's clever challenge this month:

You must make a birthday card (in honor of his birthday this month).
It must be mainly purple and green (his favorite colors).
It must contain four of something (since he's turning 44).

I already had the flowers cut from Simply Chartreuse paper since I was playing around with making these flowers. You can see this post for photo steps on how I made these. I just stamped the centers in purple ink with the flowers from Sending You. I also embossed the purple layer and white card base with my canvas / linen impression plate.

My four "somethings" are:

4 leaf sprigs
4 rhinestones
4 words in my sentiment

I used the CPS sketch for this week for my layout.

All supplies Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Sending You

Paper: Simply Chartreuse, Royal Velvet, White

Ink: Rainbow (memories)

Other: rhinestones , spellbinders blossom two dies, scor-pal, canvas impression plate, copic marker for small rhinestone

Card Aisle Inspiration + PPD #35

2011-04-01T16:47:00.000-04:00

My online friend and fellow Paper Doll Laurie is hosting a great challenge on her blog. It's all about finding inspiration for our card creations from store bought cards. Perfect timing for this challenge because I actually set aside one of my birthday cards for this very purpose. Of course, who knows how long it would have taken me to actually make a card from it if Laurie hadn't issued this challenge.

Here is the store bought card from one of my best friends:

And here is my take on the above card. Truthfully, I like the store bought one better.

I had a lot of fun figuring out what kind of flower I wanted to use on this card. I finally decided to use my Spellbinders Blossom Two Nestabilities dies (largest and second smallest dies). I grabbed some Royal Velvet scraps and went to work. Here are some pics of the steps I did to make the flowers. Click on the photos to enlarge.

1. Die cut flowers

2. Scored from petal tip to opposite petal tip

3. Cut between each scored petal

4. Folded each petal inward after cutting

I decided to flip the little flower over when layering it on the bigger flower. I liked the dimension that it gave the blossom. Since the flowers and the leaves were all cut from scraps I had in my scrap box, this fits Katie's Papertrey Paper Dolls challenge this week too!! You can check it out HERE. I could probably submit just about every card I make for Katie's challenge. I'm so frugal that I make sure to use every last scrap I can before cutting into a new sheet of paper.

That's it from me. Whew, it felt good to be crafty today. Hope you all have a great weekend!

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Delightful Dahlia
Paper: Spring Moss, Royal Velvet
Ink: Spring Moss, Vintage Cream, Rainbow (memories)
Other: spellbinders blossom two nesties, delightful dahlia dies, brad from Target $1 spot

Dot Spot Birthdays

2011-03-29T09:11:00.000-04:00

I'm finally starting to feel a bit crafty after a nice Spring Break vacation. Last week was spent catching up on real life duties. I should have more time this week for creating and commenting on blogs. Anyhow, when my mojo is in a slump I usually CASE some projects that I've bookmarked for inspiration. It helps the creative juices flow again.

Joy is having a challenge on her blog about honoring someone in the crafty world that inspires you, so this was the perfect time to play along. Thanks for the push Joy!

I remembered that I loved this card from Dawn McVey using Dot Spot. I really need to use that set more often. It's so fun and versatile. So I quickly chose some colors and recreated Dawn's card. I used the same layout as her card -- just changed the colors and sentiment panels.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Dot Spot, Make a Wish additions (1st card sentiment panel), Birthday Basics (2nd card sentiment)
Paper: White, Raspberry Fizz / New Leaf, Lemon Tart
Ink: Raspberry Fizz, New Leaf, Sunflower (CTMH), black

Papertrey Paper Dolls Blog Hop

2011-03-09T07:24:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the very first Papertrey Paper Dolls Blog Hop! Our hop starts today, March 9th and ends on March 13th. Two prizes are being awarded ~ one for leaving a comment on our Blog Hop posts and one for playing along with our blog hop challenge and linking it up on the Paper Dolls Blog. Check out the Dolls blog for details.

I'm honored to be part of such an amazing group of papercrafters. I've only been a part of the Dolls group for about one month even though I've been following (and giving all my money to) Papertrey Ink since they first started as a company in 2007.

Our theme for this hop is in honor of what brought us together as a group: P.T.I. ~ meaning each project you seen along the hop will have something that starts with a P, T and I. For my card I chose:

P = Pure Poppy cardstock
T = Through the Trees and twine
I = Impression Plate (Woodgrain)

When Lee Anne first issued the challenge I had an idea in mind to use Through the Trees, this is NOT that idea. I didn't like how it was turning out so I started over and ended up with this.

I distressed the edges of the pure poppy base and tag with Fresh Snow ink. The white layer is distressed with ink too. It just didn't show in the photo.

In addition to the challenge we are also sharing a little about ourselves so our fellow Dolls and visitors can get to know us. As most of you know, I am from Hawaii originally, but I now live in Indiana. I came out here to go to college many moons ago and met my husband. We moved to Arizona right after we got married and enjoyed nine years there. I really miss living there. About five years ago we felt led to move back to Indiana.

My husband and I have been married for almost 14 years and have two daughters ages 12 and 9. I am blessed to be able to work part-time from home doing administration and finances for our church. Before I had children, I was a high school math teacher. I think it's so interesting how many of us in this group are/were teachers.

Enough about me you've gotta continue hopping. Here's the next blog on the hop:

Tanna (tfiskers) : http://scrapaliciousness.blogspot.com/

Here's a list of all the Papertrey Paper Dolls:

Jen (JenCarter)

Lee Anne (Lee Anne)
Laurie W. (Laurie Beth)
Deena (honugurl16)
Leish (leish)
Amy (kolling143)
Suzanne (*suzanne*)
Katie (choc0holic)
Laurie (In My Craft Room)
Cecilia "C" (camvds)
Michelle (abzzymom)
Sara (hiinaz)
Tanna (tfiskers)
Renee (Renee L.)
Kristin (jcmom04)
Christy (christea)

All supplies Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Through the Trees
Paper: Pure Poppy, white
Ink: Fresh Snow, Bamboo (CTMH), tuxedo black (memento)
Other: rustic jute twine, button (?), Mat Stack 4 die, woodgrain impression plate, ribbon tag (spellbinders)

Baby Card Duo

2011-03-05T15:40:00.000-05:00

Here's a set of baby cards for our Papertrey Paper Dolls challenge 33.

Leish asked us to make a baby boy and girl card with a similar layout. I don't own any PTI baby themed sets but I have a few sets that have one or two baby images. I pulled out Just the Ticket. I'm ashamed to say that this is the first time I've inked this up. I got this set right after CHA as a gift from LeAnn (sillyleann). It's so cute. Why don't I use it?

I kept the layout pretty simple. I used a Mat Stack 2 die cut under the ticket strip to highlight the sentiment. The Book Print Impression Plate used on the yellow panel is my favorite part. Hope you play along with our Paper Dolls challenge!

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Just the Ticket, Everyday Classics (yellow dotted oval)
Paper: white, spring rain / sweet blush, 2008 bitty dot basics pp
Ink: Summer Sky (memento), Indian Corn Blue (CTMH), Buttercup (CTMH), Berry Sorbet, Sweet Blush
Accessories: Just the Ticket die, Book Print impression plate, Mat Stack 2 die, button brads (making memories)

February 2011 PTI Blog Hop

2011-02-25T08:22:00.000-05:00

Hi all welcome to another Papertrey Ink Blog Hop. The theme this month is scallops! We can use scallops of any kind on our project. I immediately thought of the small scallop strip in First Fruits. I've used it exactly once on a card and loved the results, so I needed to break that out again. Here it is stamped in a trio of colors.

Don't you love those unique scallops? They were really easy to quickly cut around too. I layered them on top of each other and curled up the ends a bit for dimension.

I'm finally putting those number dies to use as well. I cut out the 40 from polka dot stamped vellum and Hawaiian Shores cardstock and glued them together. Popped that up on a Mat Stack 1 die cut and added a few buttons.

I used this week's Curtain Call Color Challenge, Act 70, for my color inspiration.

All Supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: First Fruits, Mat Stack 1, Big Birthday Wishes
Paper: Stampers Select White, Hawaiian Shores, vellum
Ink: Spring Moss, Breeze (CTMH), Orange (Kaleidacolor autumn leaves)
Accessories: Mat Stack 1 die, hawaiian shores buttons, numbers dies,, orange zest twill ribbon, cutterbee scissors

MIM 3 -- Glitter Strip

2011-02-23T20:52:00.003-05:00

Here's a quick card for Make it Monday 3, to add a glitter strip to your card using Scor-Tape. I made another card like these HERE by embossing one of the Limitless Layers dies onto my cardstock and adding a few lines with the Scor-Pal.

EDITED: I was asked about embossing the medallion. Here's the sandwich I used in my cuttlebug:
- A Plate

- B Plate
- Tan Embossing Mat
- Cardstock (cardfront)
- die (cutting lines facing down)
- B Plate

I placed a few strips of 1/8" Scor-Tape above and below the scor lines and sprinkled them with Sour Apple glitter (Martha Stewart). The image is punched out with a 1 3/4" circle punch and the shamrock was punched out again using a 1" circle punch. I popped it up on a pop dot for more dimension. I colored the inside of the shamrock with my Clearstar glitter pen so it was nice and sparkly. Quick, easy and fun card!

Marvelous Things

2011-02-21T11:19:00.000-05:00

Good Monday morning everyone! I hope you enjoyed your weekend. Ours was very relaxing, which is just what we all needed. Today I have a card for the weekly Our Daily Bread Designs Challenge. This week we are to use an image over a sentiment. You can check out the challenge HERE.

I chose to use a sentiment from Sing to the Lord and a cross image from Everyday Blessings (PTI). I added a little texture to my card base and sentiment panel with the Linen / Canvas impression plate (PTI).

I used this week's Fall To Layout, FTL128, from the Clean & Simple Stamping blog.

This also fits for Peggysue's challenge on the Stampin' Sisters in Christ blog.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink except sentiment.

Stamps: Everyday Blessings, Sing to the Lord (ODBD)
Paper: white cs, Ripe Avocado cs, Green Boutique pp
Ink: Aqua Mist, Ripe Avocado
Accessories: Linen/Canvas impression plate, Mat Stack 4 die, swiss dot satin ripe avocado ribbon

Source of Inspiration -- Maile Belles

2011-02-19T15:55:00.000-05:00

Did you see this card by Maile Belles? WOW! I love it and wanted to CASE it. The Wee Memories Scrappy Saturday Challenge this week, WMC44, is to create a project to show a source of your inspiration. I know for many of us Maile's creations are a constant source of inspiration.

Here's my take on her card:

This also fits with this week's Crazy 4 Challenges -- use dies, C4C75. I used a circle Nestie to cut out the window in the Spring Rain Bitty Dots pp.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless noted

Stamps: Love Birds, Big Birthday Wishes, Four of a Kind (2010 CHA set)
Paper: Stampers Select white, Bitty Dots pp
Ink: black, pure poppy
Accessories: pop dots, pure poppy twine & button, circle nestability (spellbinders), corner rounder

Teach Me Your Paths

2011-02-16T16:41:00.000-05:00

I've decided to play along with the Our Daily Bread challenges again this week. The latest challenge, ODBDSLC48, is as follows:

This week the challenge team would like to see your creations using our "Have a H.E.A.R.T." recipe. You must use three of these ingredients.

H= Hemp
E= Embossing
A=Any Our Daily Bread Images or Sentiments
R= Ribbon or lace
T= Tearing or distressing

I chose to do E = Embossing, A = ODBD image and T = tearing or distressing.

This also fits for the current Stamping In Time challenge, SNTODBD28, to use distressing. I didn't know ODBD had these challenges too. Fun, Fun! The other requirement is to mail this off to someone in real life distress as an encouragement.

Now I know this isn't the typical card you see using Our Daily Bread Designs. They are usually gorgeous and ornate. I'm not an *ornate* crafter, but more importantly, I just felt like making a CAS card showcasing a wonderful scripture verse. "Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths." I know this card will be an encouragement to my friend.

I heat embossing the verse in silver EP. It really does look pretty cool IRL. I distressed the edges of the white cardstock with Basic gray ink. I also distressed the black cardstock with an edge distresser.

Stamps: The Path of life (ODBD)
Paper: white, black (PTI), Basic Gray (SU!)
Ink: White (memories), Versamark, Basic Gray (SU!)
Accessories: Silver EP, Long Rectangle Nesties, edge distresser

MIM 2 -- Vellum Sentiment

2011-02-15T16:58:00.000-05:00

This week's challenge for Make It Monday was to use a vellum sentiment strip on our card. I love stamping and embossing on vellum so I chose to do both.

I ran a piece of vellum through my cuttlebug with the In Bloom impression plate. LOVE that look! I thought it would look neat through a Mat Stack 3 window. I stamped an image from First Fruits around the window in versamark.

For the sentiment, I heat embossed a frame image from the Mat Stack 3 collection. I then stamped the "happy birthday" sentiment from Birthday Basics in the center. The strip is popped up on mini-pop dots. They are tiny enough to be hidden under the embossing.

All supplies Papertrey Ink unless noted

Stamps: Mat Stack 3, First Fruits, Birthday Basics
Paper: Scarlet Jewel, vellum
Ink: Versamark, black (memento)
Accessories: Mat Stack 3 die, In Bloom impression plate, stain ribbon(?), Garnet EP (stampendous!), mini pop dots

HEC #14 - Handwritten Valentine

2011-02-09T20:00:00.001-05:00

Last month I missed out on playing along with Ted's Happily Ever Crafter challenge. I had a whole month to make a card and I still missed it. This month I was determined to join the challenge. Ted has some of the most clever challenges.

This month we are to create a Valentine's Day card. Easy enough...BUT...a handwritten sentiment is required on the front AND the inside. UGH!! I never like my handwriting. So here's my card:

After THREE attempts at writing neatly and trying to include a cute sentiment, I took the easy way out and just wrote *Love*. One word was about all I could handle by the end:) Seriously though, it was fun to give this a try. Don't think I'll do it again anytime soon.

Card Details:

Stamped polka dots on vellum in Berry Sorbet (attached to base with scor-tape -- not visible at all)
Used Mat Stack 4 die cut for sentiment panel
Hearts are cut out and popped up for dimension
Decorated edges of die cut with silver paint pen

Here's the inside:

All supplies Papertrey Ink unless noted

Stamps: Polka Dot Basics II, Blooming Button Bits, heart from Inque Boutique
Paper: white, vellum
Ink: Berry Sorbet, Ripe Avocado, Pure Poppy
Accessories: Copic markers: R32, R35, silver paint pen (marvy),Mat Stack 4 die, black Zig pen

Make It Monday #1

2011-02-08T15:49:00.000-05:00

Here's my first entry for the very first Make it Monday challenge: Go-To Sentiment. I'm going to love these challenges!

I masked off the white panel with a negative cut out of the Mat Stack 4 die.
Sponged blue inside the masked space
Stamped sentiments while still masked
Colored rhinestones with R35 to match Berry Sorbet

All supplies Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Giga Guidelines, Mat Stack 3 collection, First Fruits, Heartfelt Basics
Paper: Spring Rain, Berry Sorbet, White
Ink: Berry Sorbet, Spring Moss, black (memento), summer sky (memento)
Accessories: Mat Stack 4 die, rick rack border die, rhinestones (paper studio), corner rounder

PTPD Challenge #31

2011-02-06T15:55:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the 31st Papertrey Paper Dolls Challenge! I'm so excited to be a part of this group of talented stampers. You can find our current challenge HERE. These are the rules we were to follow:

1. Use a flower set, if you have it Papertrey Ink, Year of the Flowers set.

2. Use a designer paper. If you don't have any, make your own. I actually used SU designer paper Real Red and stamped using the flower images. But I could have just stamped on plain paper and it would have been pretty too!

3. Use at least three different colors.

Here's my take on the challenge:

My favorite YOF set is Violets. I stamped them in black on a sheet of pp from the Guidelines collection. The blossoms are colored a bit with Copic markers (C1 and R32). I colored some silk ribbon in R32 to match the centers of the violets. The leaves are stamped in Ripe Avocado and the rhinestones are colored with my YG95 Copic to match.

Thanks for a great challenge Laurie!

All supplies PTI unless noted

Stamps: Year of Flowers: Violets, Damask Designs (sentiment)
Paper: True Black, Guidelines pp
Ink: Black (memento), Ripe Avocado
Accessories: Copic Markers, rhinestones, corner rounder, silk ribbon

My Favorite PTI Project

2011-02-05T08:03:00.000-05:00

I'm re-posting my favorite card made with Papertrey products for the HUGE anniversary giveaway on Nichole's blog. How awesome is that prize package?

When looking back through 2010 posts I found two projects that stand out to me as favorites. I couldn't decide between them so I'm posting both:)

I made this set of cards using the exclusive CHA 2009 PTI set. You can read the original post HERE.

This is another of my favorite cards. It took me forever to put together. The original post is HERE.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone! Can't wait to see who wins!

One Layer Wednesday

2011-02-02T16:36:00.000-05:00

I'm thrilled that I finally have a chance to play along with Susan Raihala's One Layer Wednesday Challenge! I love these challenges and have wanted to participate for soooo long. One layer cards are some of my favorite to make. Here are the rules for this week, OLW39:

Use a) an image, b) a border stamp (or stamped border if you're short of border stamps), and c) bling (glitter or rhinestones...doesn't matter). You may add small CAS embellishments to this list (embossing, ribbon, twine, or a charm, for instance), but you may NOT use a sentiment stamp or cardstock layers.

Here is a close up of the bling. I colored clear rhinestones with a Copic BG13 marker. As you can see, it was hard to capture them in the photo.

My color inspiration for this card came from a color challenge blog that I just discovered, CR84FN. I'm sure many of you are already familiar with them. I couldn't resist the fun color combo for this week's challenge, CR84FN13. Isn't is wonderful?

Can't believe I posted a card two days in a row! Most weeks I'm doing good if I get one card made total. I guess these snow days are good for something. Of course, the girls are loving it too. Will they be this happy when they have all the make-up days in June?

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Asian Fusion
Paper: Stampers Select White
Ink: Pure Poppy, Dark Chocolate, Breeze (CTMH)
Accessories: clear rhinestones (paper studio), Copic BG13, red glitter gelly roll pen (sakura)

Sing to the Lord

2011-02-01T16:59:00.000-05:00

I know, I know that's a lot of blue! I decided to go monochromatic for the ODBD Shining the Light Challenge this week. We are to use blue as our main color. I think I got that covered. *wink* I also wanted to play along with the Wee Memories sketch challenge this week.

Ever since I bought the background sheet music stamp from Papertrey I planned to make a card combining it with some sentiments from my Sing to the Lord set. I love that set of stamps.

I also used the Victorian Lace Die for the first time. I cannot believe I hadn't broken that out yet. Shame, shame. I used both the die cut and the negative and layered them together. I love how it turned out. The little decorative design stamp is from the Mat Stack 1 stamp collection.

Hope you all have a safe and warm week. We are ~~snowed~~ iced in for the next day or two. Can I move back to Hawaii yet?

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless noted

Stamps: Sing to the Lord (ODBD), Mat Stack 1, BG Basics: Sheet Music
Paper: Enchanted Evening, Spring Rain
Ink: Indian Corn Blue (CTMH), Black (Memento), White (memories)
Accessories: Mat Stack 1 die, Victorian Lace Border die, black rhinestones (kaisercraft), navy satin ribbon (Michael's)

FTL 124

2011-01-27T09:51:00.000-05:00

Good morning all! I've decided that I need to play along with more challenges in order to get some creative juices flowing. One of my favorite challenge blogs is Clean & Simple Stamping. The sketch challenge for this week (FTL124) looked perfect for using Papertrey's Mat Stack 1 set. I have not inked that up enough. I love this gorgeous frame stamp.

Hope you all are having a wonderful week!

All supplies Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Mat Stack 1, Everyday Button Bits (sentiment)
Paper: Stampers Select White, Sweet Blush
Ink: Sweet Blush, Black
Accessories: black buttons, organdy ribbon (HL), paper piercer, threading water border punch (fiskars)

January PTI Blog Hop

2011-01-25T10:00:00.008-05:00

It's time for Papertrey's monthly Blog Hop!! I'm so excited that the challenge for this month was a simple one. We were to use a stamp set or stamp that has not seen ink yet. I chose two stamps from All Booked Up.

When I first bought this set two of my favorite stamps in it were this book and this sentiment. I cannot believe it took me all these months to actually use them. I chose to keep everything clean and simple (don't I always?). I'll keep this short since you all are hopping:)

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: All Booked Up
Paper: Berry Sorbet, True Black, Stampers Select White
Ink: black, berry sorbet, ripe avocado
Accessories: Simply Chartruese saddle stitch ribbon, corner rounder, copic markersR32 & YG95

Quick & Easy Thank You Cards

2011-01-03T14:54:00.001-05:00

After two birthdays and Christmas we needed a big handful of thank you cards. I came up with this quick design that I could easily mass produce. I impressed one of the 1 3/4" circle dies (E) from Papertrey's collection into Stampers Select White cardstock by putting the cardstock between the die and a tan Spellbinders Mat. Since this cardstock is so thick the die doesn't cut through. I've tried this technique on thinner cardstock and it does not work.

After impressing the medallion, I used my Scor Pal to make two more lines on the card front. For this set of cards I chose to stamp the butterfly image from Round and Round in a variety of colors. There are many other PTI sets that fit perfectly into the circle. Giga Guidelines looks great too!

I love a CAS card! What do you think?

All supplies Papertrey Ink unless stated.

Stamps: Round and Round, 2009 Autumn Tags (sentiment)
Paper: Stampers Select White
Ink: Hawaiian Shores, Sweet Blush, Lavender Moon, black
Accessories: Limitless Layers circle die, Scor-Pal, Spellbinders mat, cuttlebug

Merry Christmas!!

2010-12-23T20:54:00.000-05:00

Mele Kalikimaka me ka Hau'oli Makahiki Hou!!

Just wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas! I'll be busy the next few days so I thought I'd post this a little early. I'm sure you are all busy too. See ya in the new year.

I used Papertrey's gorgeous Night Sky Shimmer paper for this card. Silver EP embossed on it looks amazing.
Here's another simple card is made for Christmas. Love the gold embossing on red. Hope you all have a blessed holiday.

Birthday Wishes

2010-12-15T19:37:00.000-05:00

Today is my eldest daughter's 12th birthday!!

She is not a girly girl so I knew I had to do some distressing and non-pink elements on her card. I cut out two pieces from the largest Labels 10 die. Then I cut off the tops and adhered the pieces together with 1/8" Scor Tape. I scored the top layer to create a "hinge" for opening.

Off to have dinner and dessert!

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Mat Stack 1, Asian Fusion (sentiment), In Bloom
Paper: Vintage Cream, White
Ink: Dark Chocolate, Summer Sky (memento), Vintage Photo (ranger distress ink)
Accessories: rhinestones (paper studio), blueberry sky grosgrain ribbon, dark chocolate twine, Mat Stack 1 die. Labels 10 die (spellbinders), scor pal, hole punch

Take Three Birthday

2010-12-04T07:00:00.023-05:00

Today is my youngest daughter's 9th birthday!

I cannot believe my baby is nine years old already. I love that she's more independent, brilliant and beautiful each year, but it's still bittersweet...KWIM?

I made her a simple card using the Take Three Die that was released last month. I cut the patterned paper and card front at the same time. I stamped two images from Everyday Classics in the *windows* (on the inside of the card) and then the sentiment over the middle image. Quick and easy! My youngest DD loves to make cards with me and knowing her she'll totally want to CASE this to make her sister a birthday card for next week.

Have a great weekend!

All Supplies Papertrey Ink unless noted

Stamps: Everyday Classics (2008 Anniversary set), Birthday Basics (sentiment)
Paper: white cs, Beautiful Blooms pp
Ink: Spring Moss, black (memento), Breeze (CTMH)
Accessories: Take Three Die, red gemstones (paper studio), dotted ribbon (paper studio)

November PTI Blog Hop -- Tags

2010-11-25T10:00:00.027-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to my fellow Americans!! Welcome to my international friends. It's Papertrey's blog hop time. The theme this month is TAGS. We were to create any kind of holiday tag. I chose to make simple gift tags for Christmas. The Places Please die and stamp set make quick and easy tags. I chose the holly and the Christmas tree images to decorate the tags. Glitter gel pens added some subtle bling.

Close up of tag

All supplies Papertrey Ink unless otherwise noted

Stamps: Places Please & Boxes, Bags and Tags
Paper: white, Kraft, Hawaiian Shores, Sweet Blush
Ink: Pure Poppy, Ripe Avocado, Black (memento)
Accessories: places please die, red satin ribbon, glitter gel pens

Let Me Save Your Spot

2010-11-22T16:50:00.000-05:00

I'm thrilled to have a stack of bookmark sleeves, so that I can create bookmarks that won't get bent up or torn. These make such great gifts for those who love to read. A fellow PTI forum friend, Michelle, coordinated a huge order for a bunch of us to order these sleeves in bulk. Thanks again Michelle!!

Here's my first bookmark using these sleeves. This was part of a Thanksgiving gift for my daughter's amazing teacher.

I started with a piece of 7 x 2 1/4" Kraft cardstock.
Adhere 6 x 2 1/4" patterned paper, leaving a small Kraft border on top and bottom.
Add felt eyelet lace on top and bottom
Cut and stamp Mat stack 3 piece
I used the little felt pieces from inside the eyelets to create a circle border for my main image to rest on (see below)
Stamped sentiment on the mat stack 3 piece
Stamped second sentiment on white and punched out with 1" circle punch, matted this with 1 1/4" Kraft circle.

Here's the bookmark out of the sleeve:

Thanks for looking!

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise noted.

Stamps: All Booked Up

Paper: Kraft, White, Everyday Blessings pp

Ink: Ocean Tides, Spring Moss, Dark Chocolate

Accessories: Ocean Tides felt, eyelet lace die, Mat Stack 3 die, 1", 1 1/4", 1 3/4" circle punches (ek success), Spring Moss satin ribbon, bookmark sleeve HBM#1 (clearbags.com)

Season's Greetings

2010-11-19T15:51:00.000-05:00

Here is a quick and simple card using an SU set I borrowed from a friend. I love this large image.
The frame is drawn by hand using a white gel pen and ruler.

Stamps: Scenic Season
Paper: White, black (PTI), red cs
Ink: White Dye ink (memories)
Accessories: signo white pen, pop dots

Krafty Blooms

2010-10-30T16:01:00.000-04:00

Hi all! Can't believe it's been one month since I've posted anything. Life has been busy, but good. Just haven't found much stamping time.

Here's a quick card using some Papertrey goodies:

Run Kraft sheet through cuttlebug using In Bloom impression plate
Die cut a piece out of that using Fillable Frames #4 die
Adhere Kraft to Enchanted Evening base
Stamp frame image in white ink
Stamp sentiment in Versamark and emboss with silver EP
Thread thin silver ribbon through EE button and wrap around card front

All Supplies Papertrey Ink unless stated

Stamps: Fillable Frames #4, Signature Greetings
Paper: Kraft, Enchanted Evening
Ink: white dye ink (memories), versamark
Accessories: Enchanted Evening button, fillable frames #4 die, silver EP, ribbon (hobby lobby)

Welcome Home Mike

2010-09-30T08:00:00.016-04:00

Today is a day of celebration in my family!! My brother-in-law is returning home to my sister and their five children after a year long deployment in Iraq. I wish I could be there for his homecoming ceremony but they live several states away. Here is a card I sent to welcome him home.

Stamps: Main image -- Stampscapes: Pines and Rocks, Cloud (cumulus), Gulls, Tag -- Round and Round (PTI), Lakeside Cove Lg. (Stampscapes)
Paper: Ocean Tides, Vintage Cream (PTI), chocolate pp
Ink: Sky Blue, tuxedo black (memento), Garden Green (CTMH), Dark Chocolate (PTI)
Accessories: Prismacolor pencils (shading boulders and water), Ribbon Tag (spellbinders), Rustic Twine (PTI), pop dots

September PTI Blog Hop

2010-09-25T10:00:00.007-04:00

This month's blog hop theme is to show a skill you have learned from fellow blogger / stamper. I've learned so much from so many bloggers. It was hard to choose what to showcase. I decided to go with a technique I've been wanting to try since Taheerah shared a gorgeous evening invitation she made. She shared it on the Papertrey forum so I don't have a link to show. She impressed a border on the invitation using PTI's In Bloom impression plate and a modified Spellbinder's mat. I've done a similar technique with Cuttlebug folders, but not with impression plates.

Here's my card using this technique:

Here are a few photos to show you how this was done:

1. Cut an embossing mat to A2 size
2. Cut a rectangle out of the middle

3. Build the above "sandwich" to run through the Cuttlebug

This is what it looks like after impressing the border. Sorry for the bad photo.

4. Score inside border using Scor-Pal

What do you think? Isn't it a cool technique? Thanks to Taheerah (Little Miss T) for the idea and the inspiration.

***EDITED *** Taheerah just got a video tutorial made for this embossing techinique. You can view it HERE.

All supplies from Papertrey Ink unless noted.

Stamps: In Bloom, Delightful Dahlia (sentiment)
Paper: Vintage Cream, Terracotta Tile
Ink: Vintage Cream
Accessories: spellbinders embossing mat, In Bloom impression plate, vintage cream satin ribbon, Scor-Pal, rectangle Nestabilities, white embossing powder

Flourished Blooms

2010-09-17T14:49:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone! I'm finally getting around to posting again. It's been too long since I've made a card, so right before I crawled into bed last night I made myself create a quick card. This is a CASE of Maile Belles card here. I've been wanting to make a card like this since she first posted it in March.

die cut the flowers using Beautiful Blooms #3 dies and rounded corners
ran that panel through my Cuttlebug using the Linen/Canvas impression plate
stamped some flourishes in Hawaiian Shores ink with Fancy Flourishes
adhered that panel to black cardstock and added some Papertrey buttons
stamped sentiment from Fillable Frames #4 and punched it out with SU! word window punch

All supplies from Papertrey Ink except word window punch and corner rounder