Caffeine & Stamps

Looking Back

2012-01-26T07:02:00.000-06:00

It's Thursday, so that means a NEW Ways to Use It challenge. Today, I am hosting and I have just LOVED all the year in review blog posts that folks have done over the past year. I *SO* need to do that next year! I thought that might make a pretty fun challenge if you use the past year's challenges and combine at least two.

I used TWELVE on my card. It was SO much fun to do! I hope you'll play along.

Stock Spotlight Saturday

2012-01-21T08:56:00.000-06:00

Today, on the C.Y.D.I? Blog we are featuring one of my all-time favorite products - TWINE!
One of the things about twine that would hem me up is the mess of it, always getting tangled and all. I knew that my store would carry twine, but I wanted something different to keep it organized and neat - enter the spool!

All the C.Y.D.I? twine comes wrapped on these little spools with a label to let you know what color it is. The I Want It All bundle is shown above, and it comes in that adorable little case to add that extra layer of organization.
Here are two cards I made using twine...

My sentiments are from Technique Tuesday that will be COMING SOON to the store... oh how I can't wait!

Speaking of the store, rush on over because our artists have put TONS of products on sale! Several of our Lucky 7 Spool combo packs are already on sale. Additionally, for you, here is a coupon for 15% off ALL non-digital items, to include the adorable TWINE spools in the store. Use this coupon at checkout: CYDIGOC15

The sale/coupon ends Friday, January 27th when I get on the plane for CHA!!! Make sure you are a C.Y.D.I? Twitter follower to get all the updates from CHA!

Sew Beautiful

2012-01-19T05:03:00.002-06:00

It's Thursday, so that means a NEW Ways to Use It Challenge. Today, Hannah has challenged us to sew beautifully. Well, my craft room is something of a disaster right now, and I can't really get to my sewing machine, so I improvised.

I weaved my ribbon in the scalloped circle (AKA sewing), and then I added some faux stitching around the edge. Look at all those layers I used!!!

C.Y.D.I? Grand Opening Blog Hop!

2012-01-18T05:59:00.002-06:00

Someone please PINCH ME to tell me this is really happening... I just really opened a store of my own?!?! *faint* Needless to say, that's where I've been!
Today marks day 3 of our Grand Opening Celebration, and we are HOPPING! If you came from the C.Y.D.I? Blog, then you're right on track. If you didn't, you want to hit that to see our fabulous design team introduced and find out about our Grand Opening SALE (yup, I said SALE!).

Today, I have another in the series of super simple, yet adorable, cards made with Carla's Creations' fabulous dog images. If you missed the other two, you'll want to check them out because they happen to be sitting on a post about the Grand Opening SALE going on HERE.

Here are my steps...

Resize adorable puppy image, and print on kraft card stock (is there another color?!).
Color nose with R34 Copic marker.
Cut puppy with Nestie, and emboss with same Nestie.
Cut strip of glitter paper, and cut notch from side. Adhere to A2-sized card.
Stamp sentiment - this one is from Technique Tuesday.
Pop puppy die cut up on foam dots.

Now, hop on over to Lelia the Amazing's blog to see what she has in store for you...

In case you get lost along the way, here is today's full hop:

C.Y.D.I? Blog - http://canyoudigiit.com/blog
Michelle Single (store owner) - http://www.wannastamp.com <--- You are HERE!
Lelia Pierce (DT coordinator) - http://greengoddescreations.blogspot.com/
April O'Connor - http://aprilsalley.blogspot.com/
Toni Storie (CYDI friend) - http://sweetpeasstory.blogspot.com/
Dana Alley - http://www.craftewho.blogspot.com/
Jan Hannicutt (guest designer) - http://jans-gonestampin.blogspot.com/
Patty Chalas - http://www.patriciachalasstudio.blogspot.com/
Nancy Williams (guest designer) - http://whatsonmykitchencounter.blogspot.com/
Hannah Clark (artist coordinator) - http://delightfullydistressing.blogspot.com/

First C.Y.D.I? Challenge

2012-01-17T06:00:00.001-06:00

I'm happy to post our VERY FIRST Challenge. Every other Tuesday, the C.Y.D.I? Team will bring you a new inspiration to get those creative juices flowing over on the C.Y.D.I? Blog. Today, we will celebrate all things digital. In the spirit of this new beginning, I have a confession to make...

Hi, my name is Michelle, and I'm an iPhone ADDICT! (iPad too)

Source: fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net via Michelle on Pinterest

C'mon, admit it... that's gotta be someone you know, if not you! I hate to admit, but that is SO me!

Without further jabbing, I give you two yummy items to inspire your creativity, and two projects to further inspire you.

Source: sugarsugarcakestudio.com via Michelle on Pinterest

Source: tuaw.com via Michelle on Pinterest

And here is my project...

I took the layout from the iPhone cake and made my own little home screen with some cute icons.

Love Tags Print & Cut (LilyPink Designs)	Text Cloud & Songbird (LilyPink Designs)	Latte w/ Bling (C.Y.D.I.)	Panda w/ Moni (KiniArt)
Paws Set (AnnieJDesigns)	Sweet Baby Safari (ReviDevi)	What's Up? (Carla's Creatures)	Liquid Pearls (Ranger)
Smooch (Clearsnap)

InLinkz.com

Head on over to the C.Y.D.I? Blog and link up your iPhone cake inspired projects... there IS a prize in it for ya, after all ;)

In case you missed it on Sunday's post, here is our NEW blinkie, designed by the fabulous Lelia Pierce:

Happy Birthday Early

2012-01-04T22:38:00.000-06:00

It's Thursday, so that means a NEW ways to use it challenge. Today is my day, and Friday is my birthday, so as a shameless plug to solicit birthday wishes and virtual presents, I'm challenging all to make a birthday card or use your favorite things.

For my sample, it seemed a little TOO self-serving to create a birthday card for myself, so I am sharing my favorite things with you....
1. KRAFT card stock! Take a look through my gallery - I'm an addict!
2. Digi stamps... my printer and I are ONE! I love how I can size them to fit any size I want. This one is a CUTE print & cut file from LilyPink Designs
3. Coffee anything... my blog is called Caffeine & Stamps and my Pug is named Latte - do I need to say more???
4. Pearl swirls... do I really need to justify that one?
5. Smooch... thanks to my fabby friend, Lydia!
6. Distress stains mixed with pearlized water... darn you, Jennifer McGuire!
7. Quirky sentiments... although I never seem to use them (that's my new year's resolution btw)
8. Tim Holtz' tiny attacher
9. Pop dots, and last, but certainly NOT least...
10. Stampin' Up!'s Early Espresso color... of course, it's coffee!

There you have it... a top 10 of my favorite things! I hope you'll play along with WTUI this week...

Print & Cut Fun

2012-01-02T15:05:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year, everyone! I hope 2012 is starting off great for you. Today, I want to show you something fun to do with your Silhouette. (At this time, I'm not sure how to do this with other electronic cutting machines, but if anyone does, please let me know!) In the store, you will find a few Print & Cut files. These files make fussy-cutting a thing of the past, and if you're anything like me, you will be dancing in the hallways about this!

Here's how you use them...

Open file in Silhouette Studio and resize as you want (the free version works just fine). You can combine multiple print and cut files on one piece of paper to save precious supplies. You will need to do this in Silhouette Studio before printing. {Note: my printer had memory issues with a full sheet, so there was a touch of waste.}
Click "Send to Silhouette" like you do for every other cut file. {Note: Be sure the Registration Mark Settings are set to show.}
The Silhouette will guide you through the rest of the steps in order to make this SUPER easy digital die cut.

For my card, I printed the file on watercolor paper with a color laser printer. I then colored the image with Distress Stains (coming soon to the store!), and spritzed with Pearlized Water (ala Jennifer McGuire). The hearts and Dream are outlined with Smooch. The image is popped up on 2mm adhesive dots. The package we have in the store has tiny little circles that work great for the heart raindrops on this image.

See! Aren't they perfect?! This card is for this week's Mojo Monday sketch.

Don't forget, we still have a Design Team call going on. You can see all the details HERE.

Text Cloud & Songbird Print & Cut (LilyPink Designs)	Heart Paper Rainbow (StripedElephants)	Circle Heart Frames (StripedElephants)	5/8" Sheer Ruffled Edge Ribbon (MayArts)
Swirls Frame (ZvaCreative)	Crystal Wheel (ZvaCreative)	Smooch (Clearsnap)	Mister Bottle (Ranger)
Adhesive Dots (Zva Creative)

InLinkz.com

We're OPEN!

2012-01-01T01:10:00.005-06:00

Have you heard the news???

Follow the meerkat's advice and head on over to the shop!

The Meerkat, Photography Paper Pack paper, Chevron ribbon, and the text were assembled in PhotoShop, and then printed on a Color laser printer. The Meerkat was then colored with Copics (E51, E53, and E57 for the body, and E59 on the dirt). The pearls and Snickerdoodle Smooch were added, along with the Rock Candy Distress Stickles to make the dirt look like dirt.

Don't forget, we're still hiring! Check out the Design Team call HERE. We are accepting applications until 1/10/12 in order to be prepared for our Grand Opening Celebration, which begins the week of 1/15/12.

We are also hiring artists to add to our store's amazing artist gallery. If you are interesting in adding your digital products to the store, use the Contact Us form on the storefront.

Can You Digi It Products Used:

Meerkat Digi Stamp (CYDI)	Chevron Ribbons (StripedElephants)	Photography Paper Pack (AnnieJDesigns)	Distress Stickles (Ranger)
Pearls Wheel (ZvaCreative)	Smooch (Clearsnap)

InLinkz.com

Last Challenge of the Year

2011-12-29T06:18:00.000-06:00

Can you believe 2011 is about to come to a close??? Does anyone else think we skipped a few months this year? Like June - where did that go? In any event, it's Thursday, so that means a NEW Ways to Use It Challenge. To close out the year and take us into the next, Toni has challenged us to Bead It! Use those beads... I'm woman enough to admit that I completely FORGOT I had these beads until Toni posted the challenge. I'm liking these...

I cut the card and heart frame with my FABULOUS Silhouette, of course! I took packing tape and lined the heart cut-outs, then dunked it in micro beads. I poured Crystal Effects over the top to keep them in place. The card is cut from The Paper Studio Everyday Kraft collection. Of COURSE I had to have that! I chalked the edges with VersaMagic ink, and added that yummy giant black crystal swirl. The Crystal Effects takes a minute to dry, but the rest of the card was a snap! The card measures 4" x 5.75"... something a little different.

Not sure exactly that I'm doing with this card just yet, perhaps a Valentine? That seems to obvious... hmmm... In any event, I hope you'll play along this week!

Don't forget - I'm hiring! Check out the Design Team call HERE on SCS for my new store.

Catching Up

2011-12-19T06:48:00.000-06:00

Are the holidays taking every last free minute for you, or is that just me???
Here are some Christmas card I've made that I don't think I've posted for you yet. The first is from my VSN challenge to use something from your spare room wardrobe as inspiration.

Of course the bow was cut with my fabulous Silhouette; it was even the free image of the week. The background is notebook paper that is faux letterpress'ed.

The next card was for a winter wonderland scene.

I used coredinates paper with the embossing folder and then sanded. The sanded image is outlined with Smooch to make it pop a little more.

This next card was for blue Christmas. I love those little Doodle Pops!

Every time I think I'm done for the holidays, something else crops up that I need something for... does that happen to you too??? IN any event, I hope you're doing well keeping your head above water during these hectic times!

Prepping for Christmas

2011-12-14T06:24:00.000-06:00

I am just about finished with the Christmas gift, cards, and all, but that has taken SO much time... Here is a gift card holder that I made for Tami's VSN challenge.

This was cut with my Silhouette... I am LOVING this thing (have I mentioned that before???)!!!! The flower die is from MFT, the brad is an oldie from SU, Liquid Pearls, and then some twine... SUPER easy, all courtesy of the FABULOUS Silhouette.

On the inside is a Chicago Starbucks gift card that I squirreled away this summer. They have been sold out of these bad boys for quite some time.
Speaking of Chicago, here's another VSN card (again) using the Silhouette to cut the Chicago skyline. This was for Lee's VSN challenge, and my husband's favorite card I made. This card is crazy easy to mass-produce, and I did :)

The sentiment and star were mounted on my Fiskars stamp press, so I didn't even have to think about it for the other cards I made. The skyline was covered in VersaMark then embossed with iridescent ice embossing powder from SU. {Lee's challenge called for glitter, but a few months back, I packed up all my loose glitter and shipped it off to Lee. :)} Add a gem and call it done!
Check back tomorrow for a new WTUI challenge hosted by yours truly!

It's VSN Time & NEWS!

2011-12-09T16:00:00.029-06:00

It begins!!!!! Tonight begins our Winter Wonderland VSN. Lydia kicks us off with warm fuzzies. Oh yes, I'm a fan! Of course, the one thing that gives me more warm fuzzies than anything else in the world is my little Latte pug.

This little takeout box was cut with my FABULOUS Silhouette... seriously, WHERE have I been to not have been using this thing forever?!!?! The felt and the dies behind Latte are from MFT. But Latte herself is sporting her dog tag with my NEW STORE! Oh yes! On January 1st, I'll be opening an online store with a group of AMAZING artists. Keep stalking the Design Team Calls on SCS to be a part of my Design Team. In the meantime, go ahead and grab Latte to play with...

Click on her to get the full-size image, and then right-click to "save as". The store isn't quite ready yet, but I'm going to start loading products this weekend as the artists send them to me. I've been holding this news FOREVER, and I'm just bursting at the seams to begin!!!!
And now back to our regularly-scheduled programing.... VSN is ON!

Stencil Time

2011-12-09T06:03:00.000-06:00

How did I miss that yesterday was Thursday??!!! Oh my! My internal calendar is BUSTED!!!! In any event, since it WAS Thursday, we have a new WTUI challenge. This week, Toni has challenged us to break out those stencils. OK!

I decided to take a break from the Christmas cards, although this could work for a Christmas card in a pinch. I airbrushed with my Copics over the stencil and added some gems... easy peasy!

We Miss You @ Christmas

2011-12-07T06:39:00.000-06:00

Happy Wednesday, everyone! VSN is almost here... are you getting excited??!! If you are planning to play, the Shopping List has been posted, so check that out. Today's card is for jmasse's challenge, which will debut on Saturday afternoon. This was a purpose-built card for a friend of mine, whose husband will be deployed for Christmas.

The inside says - we know your heart is this Christmas, and so does he. The tree was cut with my Silhouette... oh how I am LOVING that thing! I used spray adhesive to get it to stick and not peel up in the mail. I added some gold and red Stickles, stuck the boots and star on, and called it done!
W

Joyful Greetings

2011-12-05T06:27:00.000-06:00

Welcome to T-4 before Winter Wonderland VSN. This card is for candylou's challenge, which will debut Friday night.

This card would be SO easy to mass-produce. The layout is from the Jennifer McGuire Holiday boot camp class, and I love it! Please note there is a sentiment on the front of my card. That's a RARE sighting! I hope you'll play along this weekend with us.

We Got Snow

2011-12-02T06:54:00.001-06:00

I woke up this morning to a blanket of snow outside. This is GOOD snow, though, because it only stuck to the grass. I'm completely ok with snow who knows where it belongs. In any event, in honor of the first snow of the year, I thought I'd share a card I made for Rebecca's VSN challenge. The main VSN begins one week from today, so I hope you'll play along. The hostesses for this VSN have knocked it out of the park with their creativity. I'll be peaking a few cards for upcoming challenges in the coming week, just so you're good and ready to play come VSN time :)

My Aunt's birthday is Dec 26, so I think I'm going to use this for her birthday card, since I'm sure she's DONE with the red/green by then. You can check out the details for VSN here - http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/forums/virtual-stamp-night-f54/
In honor of the snow, I've gone Christmas will my blog. The background is a FABULOUS paper by Carina Gardner.

Salted Bells

2011-11-30T05:56:00.000-06:00

Here's a card I made for Hannah's Baby It's Cold Outside WTUI challenge, and the Get the Salt Out mini VSN challenge. I was in the Caribbean for both of those challenges, so I'm posting now.

The salt is sprayed with pearlized water (darn you, Jennifer McGuire!), and it's quite shimmery in person.

Joy to the World

2011-11-29T07:04:00.001-06:00

Here's a card I made for the last mini VSN that I was unable to participate "real time", since I was tragically in the Caribbean instead. Let me tell you I was suffering! ;)

This is my take on the Archiver's make and take. I think I may need to purchase that foil pen... the gold edging is a foil pen, not a mat. I love how it makes it look like a layer, but doesn't add the bulk.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T22:37:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to my US friends! I know I've been MIA, but I've been ALL OVER the place traveling for business and pleasure, and it's sure nice to be home!!!! It's also Thursday, and it's my turn to host the Ways to Use It challenge today. For my challenge, I'm asking you to get fancy with your ribbon. My sample isn't over the top nuts, but it's not a bow and not just a strip of ribbon.

This layout is from the Jennifer McGuire Christmas card class that I "took" while I was away and am just now getting to play with. This card is going into the box with my cousins' presents to hold the gift receipts just in case... ;)
Here's the inside pocket...

I hope you all have a safe and HAPPY holiday season, and I promise to post some things I did make.

Chocolate Cupcakes

2011-11-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

Don't forget, Hope You Can Cling To is still going on over at SCS. Here's a card I created for Judy's challenge and totally forgot to post here. The cupcake is a wooley sticker.

Hope you'll find sometime to play along and support HYCCT!

Passing the Torch

2011-10-28T06:29:00.001-05:00

Today, I pass the ORANGE torch to Debra Miller. You are going to be BLOWN AWAY by her amazing creations! Good luck, Debra, and enjoy the ride! I know you will, and I can't wait to see what you create!! A word of warning, Debra - don't blink! The month will fly right by!

Wrap Up

2011-10-27T06:08:00.000-05:00

Today is my final AmberInk post... oh, where did the month go?! Seriously, did we HAVE 4 weeks in this month???? Check in tomorrow to see who will be carrying the Orange torch!

Here's a recap of my AmberInk projects... OH how I LOVE those iPapers!
It's Thursday, so that ALSO means there's a NEW WTUI challenge! I wasn't able to play last week because I was playing the good daughter visiting my father after emergency surgery. I still need to try that technique!

Today, Hannah has challenged us to use Leaves. I couldn't decide which leaves I was going to use, so I used them ALL! :)

More Pink

2011-10-25T06:38:00.001-05:00

Over on SCS, we are still making cards for UT MD Anderson Cancer Center. Have you made your cards yet? Just one card is enough. Today's card is for Jessica's pink ribbon challenge. I used MORE iPapers, as well as a sentiment, from AmberInk.

Hope you'll have a chance to make a few cards to bring smiles to those who could use them! I used the FABULOUS FTL163 layout for this one.

Use Your Happy Place

2011-10-22T06:45:00.013-05:00

Today is my turn to hostess for Hope You Can Cling To on SCS. In the wise words of the movie, Happy Gilmore, I'm asking you to use your Happy Place as inspiration for your creation.
Here is my happy place:

This was taken on the beach at Turks & Caicos. I have this hanging at my desk at work, so whenever those clients get me, I can escape to my island oasis. :)
And here's what I was inspired to create with it:

The Medallion is stamped in paint, then left to dry for a LOONG time. I left it for 2 days, but I'm pretty sure it was ready sooner than that. I just colored over it with distress inks, buffed the image with a baby wipe, and added some pearls. SUPER EASY, but I think the results are pretty stunning. I hope you will be able to play along with the challenges and support the worthy cause.

Trick or Treat?

2011-10-19T09:58:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the Taylored Expressions Blast From the Past Blog Hop!! I'm hop # 22, so you are cruising right along. I won't keep you with too much yapping today.

I used the Trick or Sweet II set... this was the VERY first Cuppie set I ever bought, and I've used it a TON! This little froggie is my favorite. Unfortunately, I realized I'm out of googlie eyes. Guess I need to do some shopping... oh darn! :) This card is 4"x4", and will be part of a set I make for my little cousins for Halloween... think I'm going to make Cuppie orange in the others, but who knows :)
Your next stop on the hop is another coffee lover - the UBER-talented Jodi Collins.
Here's today's full hop for your viewing pleasure... HAVE FUN!

Make it P.I.N.K.

2011-10-17T06:06:00.000-05:00

This weekend, Patricia told us to think P.I.N.K., which means to use items that began with those letters. Well, here you go...

Here are my "lettered" objects:
P = pug puppy (my Latte, of course, which I drew :D), pink pearls, pink paper
I = icing on the cake, indigo ribbon
N = notebook paper (that one was HARD!)
K = kraft card stock (of course!)

The pink paper is another iPaper from AmberInk. How fun is that paper?! I think my little Latte is just perfect for this paper.

Feelin' Scrappy

2011-10-15T06:00:00.009-05:00

So, I'm feelin' a little scrappy today. Maybe it's because Pixels by Jen has a NEW fabulous kit today that's part of the DSA Fix and Enabler Magazine. It won't be available until November at Ginger Scraps, but here's a little peak for ya...

This photo is my sewing area of my revitalized stamp room.

Pink Butterflies

2011-10-12T20:45:00.000-05:00

Welcome to a butterfly day! It's Thursday, so you know what that means - of course, a NEW Ways to Use It Challenge. In honor of the month-long Hope You Can Cling To challenge, Toni has challenged us to use that pink. As we check into the HYCCT challenge forum, Wendy is challenging us to use Butterflies. Um, OK! I printed some iPaper from Amber's Think Pink Collection on kraft card stock. I love how subtle the kraft makes it! I cut the butterflies with Die-Namics (duh!) from MFT.

I colored some sticky-back canvas with Distress Stains, spritzed them with Pearlized Water, added a rosette, some Smooch for good luck (right, Lydia?), and call it DONE!
Hopefully, you'll get to play along with challenges this month to make some cards for this fabulous cause!

We Were Found

2011-10-10T06:49:00.003-05:00

Today, in the US, we are celebrating Columbus Day, which marks the wonderful discovery of our great nation. I'm SO glad that Christopher Columbus found America, and our Founding Fathers fought to keep it free. During the month of October, across the country we bring notice to another form of oppression - cancer. I hope you will take a few minutes to make a card to send to some hospital to bring a smile to those who may not have something to smile about every day. Over on SCS, there challenges to get your creative juice flowing. Today's challenge is about girl friends.
Here is my simple card made with iPapers and a digi sentiment from AmberInk.

It doesn't have to be anything fussy to bring a smile, just something heart-felt, like this sentiment.

Another Card for Texas

2011-10-07T06:14:00.013-05:00

Today begins a long weekend for me, so I'm *hoping* to be able to have some play time. I also hope that I'm still asleep when this post goes live. :) I do have quite a few things to do today, like get ready for the much-needed garage sale, but I will try to sleep in. In any event, here is the card I made for Lori's Hope You Can Cling To challenge to use green and yellow with brown thrown in. My yellow is tough to see, but it's there, I promise!

I embossed the acetate on top... little tough to see, but here's the rest of what I used:

No Loss for Words (Raisin Boat)	Venice Paper Pack (7gypsies)	Peeled Paint Distress Ink (Ranger)	Walnut Stain Distress Ink (Ranger)	Double Scallop Border Die-Namic (MFT)
Four Point Frame & Own Your Story stamp set (MFT)	Jumbo Scallop Die-Namic (MFT)	Houndstooth Embossing Folder (SU)	Multi-color Twinkles (TE)	Cappucino Twine (The Twinery)
Cappella Bloomers (Basic Grey)

InLinkz.com

Pass Me a Hot Beverage

2011-10-06T05:53:00.001-05:00

Those of you who know me know that I simply CANNOT live without my coffee. This post is pretty hard for me right now because I'm out of milk at the house, so I'm having to get by with a Coke Zero. I had to get my Ways to Use It challenge up before folks started to call me out for being late. :) Today's challenge, I have asked you to pass me a hot beverage, preferably coffee this morning, but any hot beverage will do. :)
Here is my card with LOTS of new goodies...

And did you SEE the digi paper in the background??? I made that! *beaming* To celebrate my accomplishment, I'm sharing this with you today. Here you go...

Just click on the image above to make it larger, then right-click to save as onto your computer. Have fun!

Here are the other things I used:

MINI PAPER ROSETTES (Tim Holtz)	Smooch (Clearsnap)	Distress Stickles (Ranger)	Tissue Tape - Traveler (Ranger)	Bean Paper (Michelle SIngle)
Let's Do Coffee (TE)

InLinkz.com

Hope You Can Cling To

2011-10-03T09:00:00.001-05:00

It's that time of year AGAIN!!!! I hope you had fun hopping this weekend for Operation Write Home. If you haven't already, scroll down so you can - there is a TON of holiday eye candy (and some blog candy) to be had! Saturday also began the Hope You Can Cling To challenges on SCS.
My cards are a little out of order, but I'm SUPER excited about my FIRST post for AmberInk!

I used the FABULOUS iPaper with Ladybugs, and the super adorable ladybug with heart image. This card is for Lee's challenge to find inspiration from the cupcakes. I used the right-hand cupcake where I took the colors and the little lace.
Here's a close-up of the ladybug... I added Distress Stickles to it, and it looks SO fun in real life! Lee said we had to have pink, so the hearts are colored in pink, although it's tough to see after the Stickles were added.

Isn't it TOO CUTE?!

My next card uses MORE Distress Stains. I swear I'm addicted to these things! This is for Lydia's challenge to use a pink critter. This makes me think of a whale just cruising around at sunset enjoying the gorgeous view. A little digi paper resized to my liking and some corregated card board rounds it out.

Last, but certainly not least, is my entry for Dina's challenge where we are to create a masculine card and put pink on it. Immediately I thought of this ADORABLE LOTV image. What guy doesn't love a good BBQ? My pink is subtle, but it's there... on the stripes of the apron, the hot dogs, and the noses of both the bear and the dog. I also have 2 pink pearls in the bottom right corner.

This one took a few Copics to make happen. In any event, I hope you'll play along with the Hope You Can Cling To challenges, or just make a few cards to send to this FABULOUS cause.

It's World Card Making Day!

2011-10-01T02:00:00.003-05:00

Welcome to World Card Making Day! Today, we are holiday hopping for Operation Write Home. Why would we holiday hop so early?? Well, because Christmas cards are DUE October 31! Yeah, they've gotta box them up and get them on their way. Hopefully, you'll send some much-needed card LOVE to our troops. Before you start creating, make sure to check the RULES, so your beautiful creations bring smiles.
Without further ado, I give you my holiday hop card:

I used this ADORABLE image by Heather Ellis, printed him on watercolor paper, and colored him with Distress Stains.
Today, also begins the Hope You Can Cling To challenges on SCS. So I have another version - Mrs. Snowman, who is VERY sparkly and ready to PARTY down in Texas for another very worthy cause!

Thanks for stopping by on the LOOONG list of hoppers today... HAVE FUN!

Lookie What's New!

2011-09-30T06:02:00.002-05:00

My friend, Teresa, recommended me to be the next Orange Team torch bearer. How could I say no when I saw all of those iPapers?! Today, I officially take the torch from Teresa. Thanks, lady!!!! GO ORANGE!!!
Joining me on my race are some FABULOUS stampers:

Sara Gough for the Pink Team
Susa Sirvio for the Bronze team
Kristen Robbins for the Blue Team
Esther Porter for the Purple Team

Mark It

2011-09-29T05:55:00.000-05:00

It's Thursday, so that means a NEW Ways to Use It Challenge. In our final week of our school-themed challenges, Collette gets right to the book with a fabulous bookmark challenge.

If you can believe it, this is my FIRST corner bookmark! WHAT was I waiting on?!?!?! These are TOO easy! Those of us in the US know that Borders bookstore closed, and I bought a TON of books to use for Christmas presents, and guess where this is going... YUP! In the stocking with one of the books. I used a technique that Jennifer McGuire calls kissed resist for this. Online Card Class was SO much fun! I still haven't made all the techniques and projects, but it's available forever, so I have time. :) I *SO* signed up for her NEW Christmas card class - open registration begins Monday for that one, and I definitely encourage you join! Anyway, can't wait to see your bookmarks!

Let's Use It - Lunch Sack

2011-09-22T05:57:00.000-05:00

It's Thursday, so you KNOW what that means - another Ways to Use It challenge! Continuing on with our Back to School theme, Hannah has challenged us to use those paper lunch sacks in our projects. I only had white ones, but here's what I did...

Since Hannah LOVES butterflies, I used the butterfly dies from MFT to cut the most layers of the paper, and here's what it became...

I used Distress Inks and stains combined with water and then some Pearl Glimmer Mist to make these butterflies come to life. Then I attached them to a fussy-cut Cafe Doodles by Pixels by Jen that was digitally colored with Chocolate Kisses digi paper. I added some butterfly-printed paper, Smooch, ribbon, and gems. EASY! I'm SO going to need to use those lunch sacks again to make embellishments!

We're Blasting Back

2011-09-21T10:00:00.016-05:00

I've missed the past few blog hops, but I'm back this time with a nice and simple card to celebrate a special day.

I'll keep it short, since the hop is pretty large. If you see the shadow of the banner, that's the banner stamp from Make a Wish stamped with water on paper colored with Distress Inks.
Now, hop on over to Melody's Blog, where I'm certain there is something quite lovely to greet you!

Here are the supplies I used on my card:

Make a Wish Stamp Set (TE)	Birds and Branch Dies (TE)	Pennant Border Die (TE)	Stars Impression Plate (TE)	3/8" Very Vanilla Designer Velvet Ribbon (SU)
Dusty Concord Distress Ink (Ranger)	Tumbled Glass Distress Ink (Ranger)	Walnut Stain Distress Ink (Ranger)

InLinkz.com

Here's the full list of hoppers for today.

I'm Still Here

2011-09-19T07:33:00.002-05:00

I'm around and crafting, just nothing I can show you right now. I'm working on projects for Hope You Can Cling To, which begins October 1. Check out the details.

In the meantime, here's a snippet of my challenge card, which will be on October 22nd.

Canvas Resist

2011-09-12T07:10:00.000-05:00

Today is day 1 for Jennifer McGuire's technique class, and it was SO much fun! She showed 5 techniques today, and I had to try the canvas resist technique. WOW!!!! Before I show you my card, don't forget you can still play in the Operation Write Home Virtual Cardmaking Party. Link up your card for my Black & White with a Splash of Color HERE.

This was SO easy to do... I may have to crank out another one of these when I'm not so rushed for time in the morning.

It's My Turn - Splish Splash

2011-09-11T18:45:00.016-05:00

As some of you know, I am a medically discharged Army Officer, so I couldn't be more honored to be hosting a challenge on Remembrance Day for Operation Write Home! I hope you will join in my challenge or any other challenge this weekend to make cards for our deployed troops.
My challenge for you is to use Black & White with a Splash of Color!
Here is my set of cards for your inspiration:

I decided to make a set of kid-friendly cards. I used Digi Papers and layout, so I just printed 3 copies (well, 4, as you'll see below), cut them, mounted them on a card base, added a sticker, and I was done. Oh how I LOVE Digi Papers!
Operation Write Home does have some Guidelines for submitting cards, since these cards are going to combat zones. Here is the original design for my card, which was rejected (by me, of course) because of the glitter on the little sticker. BAD ME!

I'm sorta glad I had to reject this set of stickers because I'm really liking the Sesame Street set.
Link up your Black & White with a Splash of Color here:

OWH Virtual Cardmaking Party

2011-09-09T06:50:00.000-05:00

This weekend is the Virtual Card Making Party for Operation Write Home. Yours truly will be hostessing a challenge Sunday, however, the festivities start Saturday at 7AM CT with a new challenge posted every 2 hours. We'd LOVE it if you join along! If you do decide to play, please make sure to check out the Guidelines for cards, so that our creation can bring smiles not put our service members in danger.

Here's a peak at my set of cards (yup, made 3 cards + 1 reject). Oh yes, it's ELMO!!!!
Hope to "see" you this weekend!

Let's Use Staples

2011-09-08T05:00:00.003-05:00

It's Thursday, so you KNOW what that means... it's time for a NEW Ways to Use It Challenge. BUT FIRST, I need to GIVE AWAY some digi paper packs! The winners of my blog candy of a Stampin' Up! digi paper pack are:
Babe O'Mara said...
These are so gorgeous. I've never worked with digi paper, but I'd like to win yours. My favorite is ribbon and twine. Love working with them. They add so much to a card or project. Thanks for a chance to win.

Heather said...
Gorgeous set of cards! How do I pick a favorite crafting supply?! I love them all! I really love twine right now though!

Lillian Child said...

Simply delightful, Michelle!! LOVE those color combinations!

CONGRATULATIONS, LADIES!!! I know I said 2 winners, but elements always work best in odd numbers, right? Lillian - if you don't want it, you can give it back :)

Continuing on with our Back to School theme, Toni has challenged us to use staples today.

I decided to go nuts and stamp on canvas! The SCS booth at CHA showed this, and I haven't gotten the nerve up to try it yet.

There's a close-up of that little cutie. This is the MFT Sketch for the week CRAZY early! And not much alteration... I know I must be getting sick.

My Supplies:

Sunflower Girl (MFT)	Venice Paper Pack (7gypsies)	Canvas Sheet (Canvas Corp)	Petite Oval Small Nesties (Spellbinders)	Tiny Attacher (Tim Holtz)
Musical Swirls Impression Plate (TE)	Funky Swirls (Want2Scrap)

InLinkz.com

Here are other challenges this cutie gets to play in:

Craft Fancy - use die cuts (uh, no problem!)
Digistamps4joy - fall colors
Freshly Brewed - use something new (uh, duh!) - my PI hadn't seen ink yet, the ribbon is new from SU, and the patterned paper is new to me, as well
Gingersnap Creations - gal pals- this card will go to my neighbor as encouragement for her new job, a little something special to put on her new desk
Kelley Kid's Digi Stamps - girly girl
Little Red Wagon - use die cut
Paper Shelter - embossing (you see that embossing on the background???)
Scrapalicious - fall
Paper Variety - use stamps

Christmas Sketch

2011-09-06T07:06:00.000-05:00

Here is my (last minute again!) card for this week's MFT Sketch.

I used these adorable pre-colored LOTV images. I added some Smooch to the snow, but of course it's being camera shy.

My Supplies:

Beary Merry Christmas (LOTV)

File Tab Die-Namic (MFT)

InLinkz.com

Fall Fun Blog Hop

2011-09-05T08:00:00.085-05:00

Welcome to Stop # 4 on the Fall Fun Blog Hop. If you came from Kim's Blog, you're right on track. If not, you may want to start at the beginning at Lydia's Blog (it's only 3 back). Normally, I would tell you to grab your Pumpkin Spice Latte and enjoy the show, but since it's going to be almost 100 here in the Chicago area, I'll recommend an iced latte instead. Since this hop is HUGE, I'll keep the yapping to a minimum...

I'm gonna say it again - OH HOW I LOVE DIGI PAPERS!!! Here is the start of my cards (oh yes, I said cards with an S!). I used the Spice Cake digi papers from SU. And even some "seasoned" Stampin' Up! demos couldn't guess it... the look TOTALLY changes when you make it tiny.

Here is my set of 6 fall mini cards. I use mini cards at work all the time, and my stock was running low, so here we go. The inside was also decorated with more of the Spice Cake digi papers. And do you see that quilling work?!?! Yeah! Here's a close-up of one.

I used quite a few die cuts on this, all by MFT... First Place Ribbon, Leafy Flourish, Mini Rolled Rose (larger of the 2 sizes).

Here are the 3 versions of the cards. I got bored making them all the same, so I didn't I used 3 different MFT sets for these sentiments: Poppy (Sending Smiles) Presents for You (Especially for You), Well Worn Greetings (thank you).
A little Cappuccino twine, Fossil CS, Chocolate Pearls / Bisque Liquid Pearls, and Oasis Green VersaMagic and Soft Suede ink finish off the projects.
I've talked about digi papers for almost a month now, so let me give some away! Two random commentors will WIN this Spice Cake digi paper pack (or another SU paper pack of their choice). Just tell me what YOUR favorite crafting supply is (because I'm ALWAYS on the hunt for new goodies!).

Now, hop on over to my friend, Lee's Blog, to see what AMAZING creation she has in store! If you'd like to see the full list of today's hop, you can find it in a spreadsheet HERE. Dina was nice enough to link it all up for us, so here ya go...

Lydia Fiedler

Libby Hickson

Kim Williams

Michelle Single

Lee Murphy

Sara Henton

Yapha Mason

Lisa Adametz

Jimmi Mayo

Jeanne Streiff

Bev Gerard

Dana Keith

Joan Ervin

Maren Benedict

Teresa Kline:ME

Hannah Clark

Dina Kowal

Wanda Cullen

Korin Sutherland

Taylor Usry

Monika Davis

Harriet Skelly

Kim Schofield

Cathy McCauley

Mary Marsh

Julia Aston

Bridget Finlay

Alison Habetler

Leslie Hanna

Sue Farrant

Michelle Hanway

Misti Oblander

Judy Rozema

Jenna Barber

Tammy Hershberger

Eva Dobilas

Kerri Michaud

Cheryl Navarrete

Neva McMullen

Marianne Baugher

Samantha

Cindy Wallach

Supplies used:

Pure Innocence - Presents for You (MFT)	Pure Innocence - Poppy (MFT)	Well Worn Greetings Die & Stamp Set (MFT)
Mini Rolled Roses Die-Namic (MFT)	Leafy Flourish Die-Namic (MFT)	First Place Award Ribbon Die & Stamp Set (MFT)
Spice Cake Digi Paper (SU)

InLinkz.com

Hybrid Birthday

2011-09-02T06:31:00.000-05:00

As I teased a few days ago, here are two cards made with the French Bistro Mini Kit by Pixels by Jen.

Here's how simple it is to make a hybrid card... Here's the digi version...

Just print, mount on card stock, add some gems, and call it done!

Let's Go Back to School

2011-09-01T06:55:00.001-05:00

It's Thursday, so that mean a NEW Ways to Use It challenge, but this challenge is SPECIAL! Other than it being my week to host, we are kicking off a month-long theme of challenges. All of the September challenges will have a Back to School theme, starting with mine - to paint!

Since it's the first week of school, we'll let you bend the rules a touch and use anything that isn't a stamp pad or sprays ink as "paint", which I did on this scrapbook page. I used Stickles and Glimmer Glaze, although it's a little tough to see, of course. This page is made with a BRAND NEW mini kit from Pixels by Jen called It's My Birthday.
How about something where it's a little easier to see the paint?

On this one, I used the Inka Gold paints by Viva Decor to stamp the flower. This is supposed to be a Christmas set, but I thought those flowers would work for any occasion, and lookie there - I was right! I used the Celebrate the Occasion sketch for this week.
But wait THERE IS MORE!!!! Not only is this a NEW Ways to Use It challenge week - IT'S A BLOG HOP!!!! All of our Ways to Use It hostesses have a made a card with their challenge. If you guess it, your card will be featured in their challenge post for that week. So, hurry up, and hop on over to Toni's Blog to get on your way!
Today's whole hop:
Michelle (tygerpaws11) - Caffeine & Stamps
Toni (ravengirl) - Sweet Pea's Story
Teresa (mamapickle) - Mama Pickle's Paper Creations
Hannah (clarhan) - Delightfully Distressing Designs
Collette (heavensent) - Heavensent For You
and our guest star for this round - Lydia (UnderstandBlue) - http://understandblue.blogspot.com/

Teasing

2011-08-30T07:08:00.000-05:00

I did create some cards this morning, but I can't show you them just yet. Here are a couple of peaks of them from an upcoming Pixels by Jen release.

These are birthday cards for my mom and mother in law, who ironically enough, share the same birthday. Sure makes life simple for me!

Two CAS VSN Cards

2011-08-29T06:55:00.001-05:00

I was able to squeak in two more VSN cards this morning. They are CAS, and let some SU digi papers help me through. Since these were digi papers, I could re-size them to meet my needs.

This card is for Lori's color challenge. I love this color combo! So soothing and serene. The paper and button are SU; the dies are MFT.

I'm CRAZY behind on Christmas cards, so when I saw the Woodgrain challenge, I knew right away I was pulling out a Christmas card for it. It's a little hard to see, but there is Smooch on the pinecone and leaves (thanks, Lydia, for introducing me to Smooch!).

More VSN Fun

2011-08-28T07:11:00.000-05:00

I woke up early this morning, so I was able to crank out 2 more VSN cards. Oddly enough, they are both coffee-themed... wonder what I was thinking about at 6AM on a Sunday...

The first is for Lori's challenge to use kraft then add your "signature move". This was tough for me because, as you know, kraft IS my signature move! But I was able to power through... Here is what I decided - I'm all about coffee (reference blog title ); I LOVE my die cuts; I don't do a lot of layers; I color with Copics; I love twine, but I don't tie it in a bow; I don't put sentiments on my cards; and I love those pearl swirls. I think that will "cover" my brand. The die cuts and stamps are from MFT.

The next card is for the coffee-themed card challenge. Um, ok! The coffee cup is from a BRAND NEW digi stamp set from Pixels by Jen called Cafe Doodles and was digitally paper pieced with Chocolate Kisses paper. The background paper with the poodle (adding to my French cafe theme) is also from Pixels by Jen and can be found in the French Bistro Bundle. Have I mentioned how much I LOVE LOVE LOVE digi papers because I can make them ANY size I want?!?! This card is 5x5" square, so I printed the paper at 4.75x4.75 and I'm done!
More closet construction today, but hopefully, I'll find a few more minutes to play...

It's VSN Time!

2011-08-26T21:14:00.000-05:00

Yup, it's that time again! Unfortunately, a MEGA delay at LaGuardia last night got me in at 3AM, so I'm out of steam after just 3 challenges completed. Hopefully, I'll get to make more after tonight's sleep tomorrow. In the meantime, here's what I've done so far...

My first card is a double - VSN A to use stitching, and this week's MFT sketch. I used a new Raisin Boat stamp that came in today's mail. I love this Netflix for stamps thing! I don't know what is on the way, and it's SO much fun to see it when it gets here! The camera image and sentiment are from the In the Spotlight set. So much fun!

My next card is also a double - the VSN C challenge for faux leather and the Taylored Expressions sketch. It's a little hard to see, but the banner underneath the bunny is faux leather, and the panel to the right of the bunny is digital faux leather. The digi papers are from Pixels by Jen called Chocolate Kisses. That super cute bunny is, of course, from Taylored Expressions' belated birthday series. I couldn't figure out what I wanted to put in the little pink felt banner, so it's blank for now. Maybe after sleep, I'll figure it out... thoughts???

The last card I have to show you tonight is for my friend, Lydia's, challenge to use the Texas flag as inspiration. Since everything is bigger in Texas, I thought of this tiny Moka from Taylored Expressions with the giant bag, a Taylored Die.

She could almost fit in that bag! Hope you get to take some stampy time this weekend to play at VSN.

Let's Recycle

2011-08-25T06:00:00.006-05:00

It's Thursday, so that means another Ways to Use It Challenge. This week, Hannah is challenging us to recycle. There are a few things that are recycled in my project.

Fun stuff, huh?

I also used scraps, too, but Hannah said those didn't count.
The owl by The Cat's Pajamas is cut out of that ribbon packaging, and the pinking border (also from TCP) is cut from the vinyl "trash".

But where did all that ribbon go???

Yup, it was added to the Ribbon Ring... do you SEE all that ribbon on there?! Those things hold a TON of ribbon! And do you see the TV my husband hooked me up with? I can have Sports Center in the morning while I craft. SWEET!!!

Two Changes

2011-08-24T06:00:00.003-05:00

It is with a heavy heart that I say Good-Bye to Digi Design House. Mischelle has decided to close TAC, of which DDH is a part. Who knew that Monday's post would be my last for DDH?! I cannot begin to imagine what Mischelle must be feeling right now, since TAC is her whole life! I wish her the best and hope to see her beautiful projects online again soon.
In the meantime, I cannot sit still, so I applied for Pixels by Jen's design team, and within minutes I was accepted on the team. WOW! I'm SO excited to work with Jen's Digi Goodness!

You *know* the first thing I scooped up with this AMAZING kit: French Bistro Bundle. In this kit are this SUPER FUN clusters that I had to make into cards ASAP!

I used the SU set Delightful Dozen for the sentiment... got a little crooked on the bottom one, but no worries, I've printed a new one...
I used a little Smooch on the paint to make it more lifelike (thanks, Lydia!), and a few pearls and rhinestones, but the heavy lifting was all done by those awesome clusters from Pixels by Jen!
There will be MANY more to come with these fabulous designs!

Happiness Artist

2011-08-23T05:46:00.000-05:00

More fun with the Cricut and SCAL software...

I tried to get Happy Artist or Happy Place, but this was the closest I could find. I like it! This bookcase is over my computer desk.

Emboss It

2011-08-22T06:44:00.000-05:00

It's Monday, so that means a NEW challenge on Digi Design House. Today, Stephanie is challenging us to use dry embossing. Well, OK!

Since I am a HUGE fan of dry embossing, I decided to do something different and embossing patterned paper. I can't believe I've never done this before! I LOVE how it turned out. I used the little flower from the Pansy set to add to the scene... this card can be used for a 100 different occasions. Unfortunately, mine is going to be a sympathy card.

Been Playing

2011-08-21T08:38:00.000-05:00

So I'm STILL getting things together in the stamp room, and I have a couple more cool things to show you.

First up is this AWESOME box for my desk top essentials. It's a Skubb Box from IKEA, and for $8, you really CANNOT find a better deal! I have all the "things" that would clutter up my stamp desk, and I can move this wherever I want. Next up is a SUPER special treat from my husband...

This little light is PERFECT for lighting up the Cricut keypad on that shelf. And speaking of Cricut...

Check out the NEW cabinet and it's AWESOME new logo. The coffee cup was a freebie of long ago from Fresh Brewed Designs that I manipulated with the Sure Cuts a Lot (SCAL) program. Why oh why will Cricut not endorse this product?!!? Why did they have to sue them, so now the new version doesn't support the Cricut?!?! If you're looking to get the SCAL program to use with your Cricut, you NEED Version 2.0. I cut some red vinyl and adhered it to the bookcase.
More to come, as I have another bookcase just the same to decorate for over my computer desk.

VersaMark - Remember that?

2011-08-18T05:32:00.001-05:00

It's Thursday, so that means a NEW Ways to Use It challenge. Today, Teresa is challenging us to dust off the VersaMark. A while back one of the MFT DT ladies used clear embossing on white then colored with Copics and I was in awe! I had to try it, so here it is...

It was a little tough to see the lines to do proper shading and all, but I think he turned out pretty cute. Then again, he was DARLING to begin with. The elephant is a new single stamp from Stampin' Up! that I had to have as soon as I saw the catalog. Here's a close-up of the darling little elephant...

We hope you'll play along with us this week! This is also this week's MFT Sketch, of course, but not at the last minute! I couldn't decide if this was going to be a birthday card or a baby card, so I left the sentiment off for now, but that's nothing new for me. :)

Get Well Jarod

2011-08-16T07:00:00.001-05:00

My poor neighbor kid broke his ankle in two places playing football. It's a season ending injury, and he's SO devastated because this was his first year in high school. To make matters worse, he can't complete his lawn-mowing "contracts" for the summer.

I thought a little humor might help him, so I used the Say What set from MFT and chose the OMG sentiment. My new stamp room has inspired me, I guess, because lookie here - I did the INSIDE TOO!

Since my lawn was one of his duties, I have decided to "buy out" his contract for the year and release him as a free agent. This card is large - 6.75" x 4.25", so I could fit some cash in there. I figure he's going to need the extra spending money to get some entertainment things. This will be given to him tonight (after I hit the ATM :) ). Once again, I'm at the VERY last minute for the MFT Sketch for the week, but I'm in there!
Have a great rest of your week!

Stamp Room Reveal

2011-08-15T08:33:00.000-05:00

This weekend, my husband and I worked CRAZY hard to get my new stamp room up and running. There are a few things that still need to make their way over here, but for the most part, it's ready to go! Here is the big reveal...

First, I'd like to give a shout out to the fabulous helpers, Latte and Gandy who thoroughly inspected EVERYTHING to make sure it was safe for Momma. Here is Latte performing her duties. Gandy is currently on guard outside to ensure no one steals from Momma.

As you come in the door, and take a right, you are greeted by my computer desk.

As well as the back side of the Cricut and printing station. Having the Cricut there allows the mat to feed fully, as well as run the Design Studio software, as it's connected to the computer.

And then the front side of the Cricut station...

Sorry the picture is at a crazy angle - there isn't enough room to step back to take the photo, because the cutting is station is there.

And on the wall are paints, glitter (shudder), and Glimmer Mist, as well as a hand-painted seascape. This is painted on wood, and I got it from a street vendor in Croatia. Isn't is gorgeous?!

The cutting table is built on bookcases, so there is TONS of storage down below. Continuing on, you hit the main event - the paper station and stamp desk. Most of my loose ribbon is on the Ribbon Rack there were it's easy to see, along with my Copics. My Color Laser printer is in the cubbie, and my patterned paper stacks are above it.

The paper is against the back wall, so it's shielded from direct sunlight and won't fade the paper. The boxes above house things I need to mail ASAP and Card stock back stock.

And finally, my stamp desk! Oh how clean it looks (I'm sure THAT will change VERY soon!)

But wait, there's LOTS more! Next, is my sewing station. I don't sew on anything but cards, so I'm not worried about the lack of real sewing table. That dresser is the only piece of furniture that didn't come from IKEA in here.

The drawers in the dresser hold material, felt, and odds & ends. And last but certainly not least is the newly redesigned closet...

My punch rack is on the wall.

And the other wall houses little "things" that haven't been moved over completely just yet. :)

Sorry about the red glow on that - I took that pic this morning at sunrise.
Hopefully some fabulous creations will come out of this room now that it's organized. Here is the very first creation to be made here:

All of my black boxes are tagged this way, so I know what's inside. The red boxes have windows built in to them, but I'm sure they'll get something too. I'm also sure these will be revised about 100 times before this stamp room is retired. :)
In any event, if you have any questions about what something is that you want to put in your room, let me know. Have a great day and happy creating!

I Got Dirty

2011-08-14T06:42:00.001-05:00

Last week on SCS, they had the Dare to Get Dirty challenges that I'm happy to say I completed ALL of! Luckily, you can combine challenges for this event, and I was a MAD combiner! Some of them I've already posted, but here are the rest... {WARNING - LONG POST} I'm putting a few details, but please feel free to ask on any other specifics.

This project was made with my BRAND NEW Cricut! It's hard to see, but there's an acrylic cog from Basically Bare on top that the twine is going around. The stamp is from Unity that I got in a Grab Bag at CHA.

This card is one of my FAVORITES! I love how it turned out... it's much nicer in person than in this photo. The stamp is from LeBlanche, who make silicone stamps. They weigh like nothing, and it's a little weird to stamp with them, but I love the image! This stamp I got at CHA, also. The patterned paper is flocked.

One of the challenges was to create a bookmark, and I don't know about you, but I hate it when the bookmark messes up the book. I searched in the SCS resources for "bookmark", and came across THIS Tutorial by Caroline that was just PERFECT! These little guys are tiny, don't mess up the pages at all, and can be made from scraps. Her tutorial calls for a 2"x2" piece of paper, but I used 3"x3".

This card will make you WAKE UP! It was my first center fold step card, and it was tough, mainly because I had to find the paper trimmer that would let me do this. I always use my Guillotine trimmer, which doesn't let you do this fancy stuff. It's ok how it turned out, but I don't think I'm convinced on this as a regular card. I digitally colored the paper before printing it... have I mentioned how much I love digi papers?!

This next card was about a fall theme, and nothing says fall to me like a Pumpkin Spice Latte, so that's where I went with this card. It's an adorable ala mode from MFT that I also got at CHA. Do you see the panel in the back with the words on it? That's a WHEEL - oh yes, I used a wheel for the first time in at least a year!

This card is some funky fold thing (here's the video on it). It was pretty fun, but man is this thing HEAVY! I used some NEW MFT goodies and some old Stampin' Up! paper. I also pleated the ribbon across the top... I'm liking that! I couldn't figure out what I wanted to do on the inside (before the deadline for the challenges), so it's blank right now, but it'll be ready to go for future use.

Here is a one layer card that I decided to put LOTS of texture on. The image is new MFT (from CHA, of course... thanks, Julie, for making me buy it!) that was debossed with the die instead of cutting it out. I also embossed the bottom with more polka dots. I purposely stamped the sentiment (from the FREE CHA set) at an angle, but I'm thinking it looks weird now... Maybe it's just the angle of the photo. The fibers are ancient. I honestly don't remember buying them, and I found them while preparing for the stamp room overhaul.

I'll be giving this next one to my mom... she's the baker. These are Flapper Doodles that I got when they were on CRAZY sale from MFT and hadn't used them. This is actually one image that I masked to be two.

Last, but certainly not least are these cards I made for my mom. She wanted some "girl" birthday cards, so I decided to try stamping with my NEW Viva Decor paints (yup, you guessed it - from CHA!). I painted the flower (from Unity) with the paints, then spritzed with water, and stamped on watercolor paper. The brown is actually a marker because the set of Viva Decor paints I got didn't have a brown. Here's a close up of the flower...

It's hard to see, but it's shimmery if the light catches it just right. These are the same paints I used for Hannah's birthday cupcake HERE.

Can You Use It?

2011-08-13T06:37:00.004-05:00

As you are reading this, I am waist high in boxes and stuff as I'm moving and redesigning my stamp room. Wish me luck that I can get my 40 tons of fabulous stuff moved this weekend, so I can start crafting again. In the meantime, why don't you play along with Toni's What's Hot

challenge?

I used the adorable set by Taylored Expressions, and some NEW digi papers and elements. The base of the card is digi, then I stamped the stove on it and added the fibers and button. That woodgrain is NEW stuff from Stampin' Up!

We're Going Old School

2011-08-12T06:55:00.000-05:00

Yup, that's right... today, the DDH Dream Team is pulling out those Primary Colors to celebrate back to school. Doesn't that make you think of those giant crayons you used in kindergarten? Ok, maybe that's just me... in any event, today, if you came from Tracy's Blog you're right on track. If not, no biggie, because this thing makes a full circle. Like all our DDH Hops, there are FREE sets up for grabs today too! Simply leave a comment on the Dream Team blogs to be entered for your chance to win a SURPRISE not-yet-released DDH set!

I decided to make a tag for the little bag of treats I give to the neighbor kids at the bus stop on their first day. We all are using this adorable image set called School Time. How cute is it?! Ok, ok, I'll stop blabbing. I bid you a fond farewell, and tell you to hop on over to Judy's blog because she has a SUPER cute project in store for you! Have a great weekend!
In case you get lost, here is today's full hop order:
DDH Blog - http://theangelcompany.typepad.com/digi_design_house
Teresa Jenkins - http://www.mamapickle.blogspot.com
Christine Pennington - http://christines-creativedigitals.blogspot.com
Stephanie Serrano - http://stephaniesstampinspot.blogspot.com
Debra Miller - http://creamcityangels-digi.blogspot.com
Sandie Dunne - http://sandieshores.blogspot.com
Dee Pritschet - http://deesdesigns.wordpress.com
Paula-Kay Bourland - http://digidesignsbypk.blogspot.com
Hannah Clark - http://www.delightfullydistressing.blogspot.com
Tracy Jackson - http://www.stampingseasons.blogspot.com
Michelle Single - http://www.wannastamp.com
Judy Rozema - http://jarfullofjoy.blogspot.com/

Follow the Recipe

2011-08-08T07:02:00.000-05:00

{Unlike me} Most of you know that I create in the morning before I go to work. Well, complicated challenges don't always translate well. At 5AM, the word complicated takes on a WHOLE new meaning. For example, this week, Teresa has challenged us to a recipe challenge - 3 buttons or brads, 2 patterned papers, and 1 ribbon or floss. Yeah, that ended up as 3 buttons, 3 patterned papers, and baker's twine.

Hopefully, Teresa will forgive me, and you'll play along, too! You can find the challenge HERE. This card also fits quite a few DTGD challenges and the MFT Sketch for the week.

Grand Finale

2011-08-05T06:55:00.000-05:00

As the Grand Finale to our week-long Grand Opening Celebration, we are hopping! Today, we are showing the ADORABLE Groovy Bug set. If you'd like to be in the running to WIN IT, just leave a few comments around the hop, and you'll be entered. Since this IS our Grand Finale, EVERY Dream Team member has a set to give away!

If you came from Tracy's blog, you're right on track. If you're just stopping by, no biggie, you can continue on from here because we make a full loop, or you can start at the beginning on the DDH Blog.

Here is my bright green bug for you...

This card will be a graduation card for a neighbor girl - what girl wouldn't want a bright green bug? Now, hop on over to Judy's Blog to see what adorable cuteness she has in store for you!

Today's Complete Hop:

DDH Blog - http://theangelcompany.typepad.com/digi_design_house
Teresa Jenkins - http://www.mamapickle.blogspot.com
Christine Pennington - http://christines-creativedigitals.blogspot.com
Stephanie Serrano - http://stephaniesstampinspot.blogspot.com
Debra Miller - http://creamcityangels-digi.blogspot.com
Sandie Dunne - http://sandieshores.blogspot.com
Dee Pritschet - http://deesdesigns.wordpress.com
Paula-Kay Bourland - http://digidesignsbypk.blogspot.com
Hannah Clark - http://www.delightfullydistressing.blogspot.com
Tracy Jackson - http://www.stampingseasons.blogspot.com
Michelle Single - http://www.wannastamp.com
Judy Rozema - http://jarfullofjoy.blogspot.com/

The Celebration Continues

2011-08-04T06:05:00.000-05:00

Today for our Grand Opening Celebration, we're giving you a little groovy inspiration....

We are using this oldie but goodie song as inspiration today.
I took the words "a celebration to last throughout the year" for my inspiration. What celebration lasts throughout the year? Christmas, of course!

Here's another digi card that will be printed in mass for this year's Christmas card. I used the Robyn papers, as well as the Bunch of Flakes set again. I bet you didn't even see that little holly stamp with those adorable snowmen. In any event, we hope you'll play along with us. Remember - there ARE prizes for ya :)

Happy Birthday Hannah

2011-08-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

We continue on the Grand Opening Celebration at DDH today, however, we have yet another reason to celebrate today - today is Hannah Clark's birthday! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HANNAH!!!

One thing I absolutely LOVE about digi images is the fact that I can make them as big or as small as I want. Here is a mini monkey cupcake for Hannah. Make sure you check out the rest of the fun at the DDH Blog. Also, be sure to leave birthday love for Hannah!

Technique Today

2011-08-02T05:58:00.001-05:00

Today is the second day of our Digi Design House Grand Opening Celebration. Today, we are showing our favorite techniques with digi stamps. I'm not necessarily sure mine counts as a technique, but it is the most favorite thing you can do with digi stuff - create a digi card.

I used the FREE Robyn papers for my patterned paper. I love how you can control the opacity of a layer, so I can get the hounds tooth paper to show through on my lion. Adding drop shadows creates the depth of a real card, but this puppy is all digital.
Check out the rest of the techniques by the Dream Team at the DDH Blog.

It's Time to CELEBRATE

2011-08-01T05:53:00.000-05:00

It's HERE!!! The Digi Design House Grand Opening Celebration has BEGUN!
Every day this week, we will be hosting challenges with TONS of prizes to be had for playing along AND/OR just commenting on the DT posts. OH yeah, we are giving away LOTS of free sets!!!! First up, we are all playing along with the current Black and White challenge.

Since I'm miserably behind on Christmas cards, I decided to go ahead and roll one out today. I used the ADORABLE snowman scene Bunch of Flakes, along with one of the FREE digi papers. I've used these plenty, and this one just looked like snowflakes to me, so here it is! And that poor little snowman just looked like he needed a bright red scarf. Hopefully Paula-Kay won't be too mad at me for using the red. I'm sure she'll get over it because there's TOO MUCH FUN to be had this week!!!!! We hope you'll play along!
Check out more fun at the DDH Blog.

VSN Fun

2011-07-30T15:56:00.001-05:00

Did you forget that there was a mini VSN this weekend (like me)??? There's STILL time to play! Here are two cards I made for the fun...

This first one was for Tami's (scary) challenge to use bright colors. Here you go, Tami! Anyone else have a CRAZY urge for ice cream with this? This adorable image is from The Stamping Boutique and was TOO much fun to play with! You see that little pennant and the clear paisley??? Those are from Basically Bare, and they were nice enough to let me "hold" some, so they didn't have to pack them up from CHA.

This next one is a little more my speed with more muted colors, and of course, there's some kraft in there! This is the Western set from DDH and will make a cute card for my horse-addicted little cousin. This is for Toni's All that Glitters challenge to use sequins. I also snuck in Collette's Ways to Use It challenge for altered ribbon.
Hope you get some time to stamp and play this weekend!

Late late late!

2011-07-26T07:16:00.000-05:00

I'm SUPER late for Collette's Ways to Use It challenge for this week, which is to use metal. I'm also just getting it under the wire for this week's MFT sketch.

In any event, here she is... and how about that reindeer??? Wanna see how it got to be "aged"????

Do you know whose hands those are??? Oh yes, that's TIM HOLTZ himself!

Make 'n Takes

2011-07-25T06:12:00.000-05:00

Since I can't even find my stamp desk from all the stuff I got at CHA, I'm going to show you some of the make 'n takes I did there.

There are a couple I'd like to talk about... the first is the left-most one. That is from a company called Raisin Boat where you can RENT STAMPS pretty much like Netflix. Oh YES I signed up for that! I should receive my first batch of sets any day now. The tag was the Unity make 'n take, but it use Sparkling H2O's, which I never had before. That was fun to do, so I may get those some day... And do you SEE that adorable little bag of yums??!! That's a NEW set with coordinating dies to be released next week from Taylored Expressions. I'm off to dig out my stamp desk now, so I can hopefully create something for you soon! Have a great week!

CHA Live

2011-07-21T06:27:00.001-05:00

I'm going to try to stream from CHA for you guys today... wish me luck! It'll be here. :)
CHA 2011

Greetings from CHA

2011-07-19T21:23:00.000-05:00

I cannot begin to tell you how excited I am to be at the CHA Trade Show. One full week of nothing but crafty sensory overload with the Trade Show, then the super show. I think my head is going to spin! I took a TON of photos, but since I haven't saved them into manageable files just yet, I'm just going to show you my favorite finds of the day. They come from Want 2 Scrap, and if you're familiar with the company, you know what product I'm talking about - NESTABLING!

Did you see those pearls?!?!?!?! OMG!!!!
And how about this ADORABLE "cake" made completely out of ribbon from the girls at Ribbon Ring???

Summertime is HERE

2011-07-18T06:48:00.001-05:00

When I go outside today, there is NO doubt in my mind that summertime is here! It's is CRAZY humid and hot out. Yesterday, I had Copic Intermediate certification, and wow was that fun! I met so many that I blog stalk, which was SO cool! We were challenged to go outside our comfort zone, which I did here.

This card is for the 2nd week of our Summer challenge on the DDH Blog. I used the ADORABLE new DDH set called Big & Beautiful. How fun is this?! It is also another old MFT sketch, which I "modified", of course. In any event, I'm off to TONS of fun (and work) at the CHA trade show today. Have a great week!

Welcome New GDT!

2011-07-15T06:39:00.001-05:00

Today at Digi Design House, we are welcoming TWO new FABULOUS Guest Designers - Judy Rozema & Sandie Dunne. You can read more about each of them on the DDH Blog.

Here is my WELCOME card for them... nice and cheery. I used the ADORABLE Strawberry Tea set, and the strawberries are colored with chalks. The leaves are colored with Spica pens, so they are very sparkly in real life. And do you see the tag back there? That's part of a FREE set of tags you can download HERE. Don't forget about the fabulous Summer challenge we have going on at the DDH Blog! I love summer when the strawberries in my back yard start producing that yummy fruit! OH! I almost forgot - this is the MFT sketch for the week, as well.

Collage - Use It

2011-07-14T06:09:00.000-05:00

It's Thursday, so you know what that means... it's another Ways to Use It Challenge. This week, Collette has challenged us to make a collage with at least 4 stamps. YIKES! I'm not a stamp-on-top-of-each-other kind of person, but I grabbed my amaretto sour and got to work. Here is what I came up with...

I used an old MFT sketch, as I have vowed to catch up and do them all, so you'll see more soon. We hope you'll play along this week!

Coming to CHA???

2011-07-10T07:12:00.000-05:00

Are you coming to CHA??? I'd LOVE LOVE LOVE to meet you if you are!

Time for Christmas

2011-07-08T06:58:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the final stop in the DDH Christmas in July Blog Hop! If you made the entire journey, you are busting at the seams to get started on those Christmas cards. I know I needed this little kick in the hinie to get going. That's why I made two :)
Since this IS Christmas, we are giving away presents! Three mystery Design Team members will be giving away a Digi Design House Christmas set of your choice just for commenting on their blog post. You have until 6:00PM CST on Sunday, July 10 to comment. At 6:01PM, the number of comments will be tallied, and the random number generator will do its magic to pick the winner. You don't know which team members will be giving away the presents, so make sure you comment on EACH stop in the hop. Oh yes, we are giving away THREE FREE STAMP SETS! The set I'm using today isn't available yet in the store (I know, I'm torturing you!), BUT you can WIN it if you want!

Here are my two cutie cards... I LOVE that puppy in the stocking (I know, shocking, right?!)!!!! I used this week's MFT Sketch, and I couldn't figure out exactly how I wanted to butcher it. Since I'm CRAZY behind on Christmas cards, I decided to do both.

Now, if you didn't make the whole hop, you'll want to go to the DDH Blog to get started. You can see Stephanie's card with this cutie little puppy stocking there, too! Just in case you missed someone along the way, here is today's full hop order:
* DDH Blog - http://theangelcompany.typepad.com/digi_design_house/
* Hannah - http://www.delightfullydistressing.blogspot.com
* Debra - http://creamcityangels-digi.blogspot.com/
* Paula-Kay - http://digidesignsbypk.blogspot.com
* Teresa - http://www.mamapickle.blogspot.com
* Tracy - http://www.stampingseasons.blogspot.com
* Christine - http://christines-creativedigitals.blogspot.com
* Dee - http://deesdesigns.wordpress.com/
* Michelle - http://www.wannastamp.com <--- You are here!

Flutterby

2011-07-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

Today, The Stamping Boutique is sponsoring the Flutterby Wednesday challenge.

Of course, Tracey has like 100 images that would work for this challenge, but I chose one with both a fairy and a butterfly, one of Tracey's new images called Fairy & Butterfly.

I need to work on my sponging skills, but not too bad for a first go.

Excited for CHA!

2011-07-04T13:01:00.000-05:00

CHA is just TWO short weeks, and I'm CRAZY excited!!! I get to meet some stamping friends in person, and that's the very best part of CHA. Speaking of stamping friends, here is a name badge that I made for my friend, Lydia, better known as UnderstandBlue on SCS, to wear at the SCS booth at CHA.

How can you NOT use blue jeans for the UnderstandBlue girl?! Sorry about the photo, but the pink felt mini rolled rose is sprayed with blue Glimmer Mist, but it just looks like the center pearl is sprouting. The entire pocket is covered in Pearl Glimmer Mist, and how I wish the shimmer would show!?!?! Maybe this photo will show it a little better... (or not)

The flower is stamped with the Pretty Pocket stamp set (the one that comes with the TOO CUTE jeans pocket die I used) that I sewed over. Since this is going to be a name tag, the jean is over card board, so I had to pre-punch the holes for the thread. Next time I want to do something I haven't done in a decade, I need to pick something a little easier to try it out on. :) The name part is on the First Place strips, of course.
And you KNOW I had to make one for me too!

You can see the SCS tab better on this one, too... that's the little tab from the Pretty Pocket set, and so is the vine that I stitched on here - I love that set!!!! I had to use my favorite champagne pearl swirl, of course, and a rich chocolate mini rolled rose for me.

And here are the two of them together... I will be entering this in this month's MFT Guest Designer contest, and Lydia's name tag will be on her way just as soon as I find my adhesive-backed pins.

I love handmade things - you can TOTALLY personalize it for the person... sure hope Lydia likes it, because you KNOW I'm making her wear it for at least one photo ;)

And We Hop!

2011-07-01T06:51:00.000-05:00

This weekend, The Stamping Boutique is holding a Blog Hop for Independence Day in the United States and Canada Day in, well, Canada. :) Those showing support for Canada (or just like the Moose) will be using the Moose, and those celebrating Independence Day will be using the Bald Eagle. You *know* which one I have to show you today!

As a former Soldier, Independence Day is a proud day for me. I chose to leave this simple, because it is truly simple - we do live in the Home of the Free, and for that, I am eternally grateful. With the Army, I have been places where freedom was seen as a myth or some urban legend or a punch line to a satire. I am truly blessed to live here in the Home of the Free. Since I'm close to the end of the hop, I give you a little remembrance the while we live in the Home of the Free, Freedom is NOT free.

Now, Hop on over to Amanda's blog to complete the hop! If you didn't start at the beginning, you'll want to head over to The Stamping Boutique Challenge Blog to begin your journey. Have fun, and Happy Birthday, America!

Old + New = FUN!

2011-06-30T06:12:00.000-05:00

It's Thursday, so that means there's a new Ways to Use It Challenge on SCS. Today, Hannah, has challenged us to use Something Old & Something New. No problem!

My "Old":
1. The colored card stock - haven't used either of the colors in at least a year.
2. The ink, Paris Blue, never used
3. BG49 and RV25 - never used
4. Twine - I had it so long and hadn't used it I bought a new one (I know, I know!)

My "New":
1. The patterned paper is from my new KI from TE
2. Chicken wire background embossing plate, also from TE
3. Acrylic tag that my fabulous friend, Lydia, sent me as happy mail!!!!
4. Film Strip die from MFT

We hope you'll play along!

Make Those Flowers

2011-06-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

This week on DDH, yours truly is the hostess, and I've decided to give you an easy one!

Yup, you've guessed - HANDMADE FLOWERS! After watching the video below, I decided I would have a go at this!

And surprisingly, it is CRAZY simple! I wouldn't have thought I could do it, but I give you my first ever Gluber Flower:

And would you believe that all the paper pieces on this were FREE?!?! Yup, that's right, completely FREE! The paper I've used before, but as a refresher, it's the Robyn paper that you can download HERE. And the little Hello tag, yup, that's free too! You can download that one plus a bunch more HERE.
I hope you'll play with Digi Design House this week... c'mon, you know you wanna! :)

Don't Use It

2011-06-24T06:28:00.001-05:00

Collette has challenged us NOT to use it this week for the Ways to Use It challenge. This week, she wants us to shun the white card stock. Ok, no problem, just do NOT take away my Kraft!!!!

This little guy has arrived safe and sound to my dad for his birthday. I used a sketch, but for the life of me, I'm not sure which one! The little cutie bear is from Lilly of the Valley. The oval border and pennants at the bottom are from MFT, of course.
Other Challenges Entered:
AiFactory - teddy bears
Digi Stamps 4 Joy - tag for Dad ... see it? the tiny little tag on the present that says "dad"?
My Mum's Craft Shop - for the boys
Paper Crafting Journey - anything goes
Scrapbook Sisters - anything goes
Southern Girls - anything goes
The Sisterhood of Crafters - male birthday

Pearls & Lace

2011-06-20T07:06:00.000-05:00

Don't forget we have a FABULOUS challenge going on over at DDH - Pearls & Lace. Now, I'm not much of a vintage-y person, but I am awed by the creations in the gallery already! I decided to throw my hat in the ring...

I used the ADORABLE Pup set (ok, I'm a touch biased on this). This is a welcome card for my new dog walker. Yes, it's a sad day here that our beloved Jen is moving away to start her own boarding business. The pups are welcoming Trish in with open paws (I hope!).
This is, of course, the Sweet Sunday Sketch. We hope you'll play along with the pearls & lace challenge. Here's a close-up of my extra pearls & lace combo...

Let's See It!

2011-06-16T04:55:00.001-05:00

It's Thursday, so that means another Ways to Use It challenge! Today, Toni has challenged us to use vellum... ok, 'fess up! How many of you have vellum and don't even know where it is in your craft area??? Yup, I know! Dig it out!!! It's time to use it!

I used some new toys here... first of all, this is the MFT Sketch for the week. I used a TON of die-namics on this... Dainty Doily Die (my vellum), Leafy Flourish, Rolled Daisy, and Medium Scallops. The sentiment was last month's Triple Scoop that I scooped up (sorry, couldn't resist) called Clearly Sentimental about Friendship. The edges of my vellum doily are coated in Cowboy Glimmer Glaze.

Mini Mojo

2011-06-15T02:42:00.002-05:00

It's Wednesday... what a beautiful thing! Normally, today, I would be posting the release day hop for Shannon's Sentiments, but sadly, Shannon has closed the store. :( You can see the announcement HERE. I wish Shannon and baby the best!!! Instead, today, I have a mini take on the Mojo Monday sketch.

I used LOTS of MFT goodies! I will be swapping this little happy number at CHA... are you going??? If so, consider making some 3x3's to swap. Will be FUN! I was originally trying for Tracy's Pearls & Lace challenge, but I didn't quite make it there... oh well, we try again :)
Here are other challenges this little mini card will be entered in:
Bearly-Mine - anything goes
Hooked on Crafts - anything goes
Karen's Doodles - frame it
KB Cute - anything goes

Polycraft Monday - ribbon & flowers (hope 1 flower is ok; there wasn't room for more than 1)
Scrap-Creations - anything goes
Simon Says Stamp - distressed edges
Stamp with Fun - pearls & flowers
There's Magic in the Air - pick 2 of ribbon, flowers, pearls/gem, and die cuts... uh, I used them all
Use It Tuesday - die cuts... duh! can I make a card without them?! I used the oval and a scrap of ribbon border, both of which were lying on the stamp table begging to be used.

Spotlight it!

2011-06-13T06:02:00.000-05:00

Our blueberries are FINALLY starting to take off, so what perfect way to celebrate than to make a card that focuses on the blueberries, right?

I used the DDH Stamp Twigs, as well as the free paper just colored with a hue/saturation layer on PSE. Tracy has challenged us on DDH this week to use pearls and/or lace... sounds fun!

New Technique

2011-06-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

In the last VSN, Sandy challenged us with rum, well, maybe not quite... she challenged us to use alcohol-based technique or product. I thought this was a good opportunity to try the Colorless Blender Bleaching technique. It's a good thing that practicing the technique doesn't count in the 45 minutes of the VSN challenge, because this one is TOUGH to get just right.

The results are pretty cool, though, so it's definitely on the list to try again!

Challenge Day!

2011-06-11T08:00:00.002-05:00

It's Saturday, and let me tell you that I was NOT making it another day this week! When I say it was a bad week at work, that's an understatement by a good mile. But, who cares about work?! This is stamping time! Today is my day to hostess the Shannon's Sentiments challenge, and I give you a sketch.

This is one of my favorite layouts, and it's my VERY FIRST sketch EVER to draw. Yup, little nervous there... did I do ok? In any event, I'm thinking the crappy week at work inspired my bright and cheery card. The dreary rainy weather here in Chicagoland didn't help much, either, I don't think.

I used the butterfly from the FABULOUS Friendship set. I love the sentiments on this, but it was the butterfly that drew me this week. Hopefully, you'll play along with my first ever sketch.
Happy Saturday!

Getting Fancy with the Hop

2011-06-10T07:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the last stop on the Digi Design House Fancy Folds Blog Hop! By now you have been wow'ed to no extent by the fabulously folded projects you've seen so far. If you haven't seen them all, no problem, just hop on over to the DDH Blog and get hoppin'!

For my card, I chose to do my first ever Spring card. This will be making its way to my friend at work who is having a rough time right now. Since I did a spring card, I decided to use Spring Sprigs set (yes, I know, I'm a dork!).

I thought this would make a nice little pick-me-up to sit on her desk to remind her that although things aren't going so swell, there are always folks who care.
Don't forget! We give stuff away on a DDH Blog Hop! Three mystery Design Team members will be hiding a magic shovel in their fancy fold. This magic shovel will give you A Day at the Beach from Digi Design House just for commenting on their blog post. You have until 6:00PM CST on Sunday, June 12 to comment. At 6:01PM, the number of comments will be tallied, and the random number generator will do its magic to pick the winner. You don't know which team members have the magic shovel, so make sure you comment on EACH stop in the hop. Oh yes, we are giving away THREE FREE STAMP SETS!

Here is today's complete hop:
* DDH Blog - http://theangelcompany.typepad.com/digi_design_house/
* Hannah - http://www.delightfullydistressing.blogspot.com/
* Stephanie - http://stephaniesstampinspot.blogspot.com/
* Debra - http://creamcityangels-digi.blogspot.com/
* Paula-Kay - http://digidesignsbypk.blogspot.com/
* Teresa - http://www.mamapickle.blogspot.com/
* Tracy - http://www.stampingseasons.blogspot.com/
* Christine - http://christines-creativedigitals.blogspot.com/
* Dee - http://deesdesigns.wordpress.com/
* Michelle - http://www.wannastamp.com/ <-- You are here :)

It's Time to Poke It!

2011-06-09T03:16:00.000-05:00

This week's Ways to Use It Challenge that Teresa is hostessing is to use that paper piercer and make some holes! I'm also playing along with The Stamping Boutique's masculine challenge. And of course, the Sweet Sunday Sketch!

I hope you'll play along with any of the challenges, but you know I'm a little biased on them.

Wedding + Anniversary

2011-06-08T06:00:00.001-05:00

My friend at work wanted some cards for a wedding and an anniversary. She had like no opinion on the colors for the anniversary one (for her parents), and gave me the invite for the wedding. Is it mean to say that the wedding colors were horrid on paper?! They were all washed out and not attractive in the least. She agreed with me and let me do what I wanted. One thing she insisted on - mini rolled roses! Um, OK!!! Here are the results...

Happy Birthday Mom!

2011-06-06T07:02:00.002-05:00

For this month's MFT Guest Designer challenge, the theme was "personalize it". When I saw this, I knew right away that I would make my Mom's birthday card. Here's the personalization for my mom...

Of course, the hand-written "mom" adds the personal touch, but ... My mom LOVES bunnies and teacups, so the Tea for Two digi stamp can't be more perfect! The patterned paper is Stephanie Fizer's Sheltering Tree digi paper.. LOVE IT!

My mom has a think for pink and frilly, so enter a pink doily Die-namic and a pink bunny butt! The sentiment is a little odd for a birthday card, but my mom doesn't like being so far away from me. I used a sentiment from the Well Worn Greetings (LOVE this set! and to think I *almost* didn't buy it!)
I used the June Sketch for You to Try. What a fun sketch!
And look - I even decorated the INSIDE!

I used quite a few Die-namics and a couple Nesties, however, none were harmed in the making of this card. :) Don't forget you still have a few days to play in my Dying for Die Cuts Ways to Use It challenge.

Subtle Bling

2011-06-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

How about a little subtle bling for the first Monday of June? Mondays always need something peaceful...

This was for Wendy's VSN challenge to use bling.

Say awwwww

2011-06-05T06:01:00.000-05:00

As this scheduled post goes live, I'm on my way home from Copic certification class taught by Colleen and Marianne and I couldn't be more thrilled! In honor of this, I'm showing you a little PI cuteness colored with Copics. This was for Michelle's Tough but Girly VSN challenge.

My "tough" piece was the leather buttons and the dark gems. Does this make anyone else want lemonade?

Challenge Time

2011-06-04T08:00:00.007-05:00

It's Saturday, so that means another Shannon's Sentiments challenge. Today, Cindy, our NEW DT Leader (CONGRATS, CINDY!!!), has challenged us to make a graduation card with tearing. Cool twist! And right on time! My neighbor's son just graduated from the 8th grade, and the grad party is next weekend. Making a card for a 13-year-old boy is TOUGH! I decided to keep it traditional with black, white, and added a touch of red.

I used the cap from the Follow Your Dreams set. The diamond piece at the top is from a set of flocked chipboard stickers, so it's fuzzy. I just realized it's tough to see that this is actually a black card... guess I should have taken the picture on a light background. DOH! In any event, we hope you play along this week!

I'm off!

2011-06-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

As this scheduled post goes live, I'm on my way to Copic certification taught by Colleen and Marianne, and I am CRAZY INSANELY EXCITED!!! Here is me on my way...

Well, maybe not exactly me, but you get the idea... :) This was for Patty's VSN challenge to use a map. Oh yes, I will be using my GPS to find this TINY town they decided to have the Copic class in. I used a sketch for this, but for the life of me I can't remember which one. Nuts! In any event, wish me luck, and I'll see ya soon!

More NEWS!

2011-06-02T04:44:00.000-05:00

I've been holding this in for some time now, and FINALLY I can shout it out - I'm the new Ways to Use It Challenge hostess on SCS!!!!!
I'm CRAZY nervous to be taking over from Kim Hughes - she is SUPER fabulous! So, what do you do when you are nervous? Go with something you know! So, for this week's challenge, I challenge you to use die cuts.
Since hosting a challenge every week is a huge task, I was allowed to make this a team effort, and here is my All-Star cast:

Collette Landwer - heavensent: http://collette-heavensent.blogspot.com/
Hannah Clark - clarhan: http://www.delightfullydistressing.blogspot.com/
Teresa Jenkins - mamapickle: http://www.mamapickle.blogspot.com/
Toni Storie - ravengirl: http://sweetpeasstory.blogspot.com/

Oh yeah, and here's my card:

I used SIX different die cuts on this... Hi, my name is Michelle, and I'm a die cut addict!!! All supplies except the cork were from the May KI by Taylored Expressions, and the sketch is Taylor's sketch.
I hope you'll play along!

Beanie for June

2011-06-01T06:01:00.002-05:00

How about we start June with a beanie card? This little cutie was for Stephanie's Hide Something VSN challenge. I used the tutorial from SCS, of course. VSN challenges are limited on time, so I didn't get this completely "finished", but I think it still looks cute.

May is ending today, but there's still time to get your Cards for a Cause headed to Landstuhl.

Happy Birthday, Debra!

2011-05-31T05:00:00.001-05:00

Today is Debra Miller's birthday, and we are celebrating by stuffing her virtual mailbox with cards. Here is my card for the Debra, as well as Christine's One Layer Wonder challenge.

I busted out the watercolor pencils on the Strawberry Tea teacup! I totally forgot I even had those. And yes, even on a one-layer card, I can't figure out how not to use a die cut.
In any event, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DEBRA!!!