Stampin' and Scrappin' With Kristin

Halloween Divas - Part 2

Here's the second project my Die Cut Divas made this month.  It's an adorable treat holder inspired by Shelli.  She created this project for one of Stampin' Up!s Regional Conferences.  As soon as I saw it, I knew it would be a Die Cut Diva project!  I know many of them already own the Petal Cone Die.  And, I love to show them new and fun ways to use products they already own - and throw in a few they don't!!! 

The body of the bat was made using the Petal Cone Die.  I cut off the "flaps" and cut a semi-circle on two of the sides to create the pointy ears.  The wings, according to Shelli, were created using the Perfect Pennant Die.  I used the largest pennant on the Die then took out three semi-circles from the bottom of each wing using a circle punch.  I used the new Simply Scored tool to score the top of the pennant to glue onto the body.  The wings were also embossed using the Spiderweb Embossing Folder.  And, like Shelli, I stamped and embossed bats from the Wicked Cool Stamp Set all over the body.  I punched 1/2" circles for the eyes and put some glimmer brads through the middle.  I created fangs using the Pennant Punch.  The mouth was drawn using a white gel pen.  I created a handle using narrow Basic Black Grosgrain ribbon.  And, I created some filler using narrow strips of Frightful Sight DSP.  My husband thought this guy was REALLY cute when he saw it!  WOO HOO!!!

Halloween Divas - Part 1

Tonight my Die Cut Divas are gathering together to make two Halloween projects.  They usually make three projects, but the 3D project they're making is a bit involved.  Want to see that one?  You'll just have to check in tomorrow to see it!

This first card is a Halloween Card.  It features the brand new Letterpress Plate - Festive Finishes Pick a Pattern shown on page 21 of the Holiday Mini Catalog.  I inked the plate using my Pumpkin Pie Craft Ink and ran it through the Big Shot to press the ink into some watercolor paper.  I finished the card by layering a strip of the Pick Your Poison DSP in the Holiday Mini Catalog.  The stamped images are from a new Halloween stamp set in the big catalog - Scaredy Cat.  I embellished the card with a little lace ribbon and mini silver brads.

Haunted Forest

Here's a cute and easy card that you can make for Halloween!  It features the Haunted Forest stamp set from the Holiday Mini Catalog.  This stamp is one of the "A la Carte" stamps that are sold separately.  I used some of the Frightful Sight DSP that's on sale - Buy 3 Get 1 Free - just until the end of August!  The card measures 4-1/4" x 4-1/4" and still fits inside of one of the Medium Envelopes.  The squares of DSP are 1-3/4" x 1-3/4".  I then added some color to my stamped image with some of the Stampin' Write Markers.

Give Thanks!

Well, I'm thrilled to report that we survived the hurricane this weekend.  It got scary at points, but we made it through unharmed.  I know not everyone can say the same thing.  Many of my friends have flooded basements, downed trees, and a young girl even lost her life when her car was washed away in a neighboring town.  So, I'm definitely counting myself lucky. 

It was certainly an interesting week here in NJ.  We had an earthquake on Tuesday afternoon.  I was at the office at my part-time consulting job.  I figured I was just dizzy from drinking too much Diet Coke then quickly realized it wasn't in my head!  Then there was the hurricane - during which we had some tornado warnings.  Following the hurricane we have some extreme flooding.  Many roads and bridges are washed out.  I've seen pictures all over Facebook.  I haven't been out yet.  At one point during the evening, there was a tornado warning for our little town of Elmer.  We quickly rushed to the basement where we actually HEARD the streams of water pouring into our basement!  I looked down and saw a small river of water flowing into the drain in the middle of my basement floor.  Then I realized there was a similar sound coming from my left.  There was a pinhole leak through the concrete blocks and you could see a stream of water!  It was too low to the ground for a bucket, but we found a pot.  Then we had to identify the source of the stream into the drain.  We had some leaks at the front of the house.  So, for about an hour we were taking turns vaccuming, emptying pots, and using our utility pump to get rid of the water.  But, we soon realized that the water was no longer coming in!  The hurricane hadn't officially hit our area yet, so we took turns checking the basement every 30 minutes.  By morning, not one additional drop of water came in.  I don't know why it stopped, but I'm grateful.  We actually had far more water in our basement several weeks ago.  And, because of the work we did to clean that up and get damaged junk out of the basement, this seemed like a walk in the park!  But, because of the tornado warnings, we now know where our problem spots are.  Things happen for a reason!

What an adventure - not one I wish to repeat any time soon.  So, I'm Giving Thanks today because God is great and protected us!  The sentiment is a brand new stamp from the upcoming Holiday Mini Catalog - Hand-Penned Holidays.  The leaves are from French Foliage.  The colors were inspired by a card that I made for my In-Color Club - Pool Party, River Rock, Cajun Craze, and Whisper White.  LOVE these colors together!!!

Jack of All Trades

Here's one of the cards I designed for a workshop last week.  It highlights the new Frightful Sight Halloween DSP in the Idea Book & Catalog.  You know, the DSP that's on sale for Buy 3 Get 1 Free???  I wasn't quite sure what to do with this stamp set, so I turned to Stampin' Connection - an online resource for demonstrators - for some inspiration.  I immediately fell in love with a card made by Janella Sibert Clough.

I used the brand new Simply Scored Tool to make this card.  Normally at workshops I'd prescore everything, but because I can so easily mark where everyone should score, I let them do it themselves!!!  I started with a 5"x12" sheet of card stock.  I scored at 3", 6", 8", 10", and 11".  I then adhered a variety of strips of the DSP to the various steps.  I punched a strip of Cajun Craze with the scallop border punch - just like Janella.  I hand cut the pumpkins from the Jack of All Trades stamp set and punched out the candy from the Sweets for the Sweet Stamp Set.  The sentiment comes from one of my favorite fall sentiment stamp sets - Grateful Greetings.

Stamp Club's Autumnal Framed Home Decor Project

Okay, sometimes I'm just too good to my customers!  Is that possible!?!?!?  Each month a group of women gather together to stamp and enjoy each other's company.  They take turns being the hostess and cashing in on free Stampin' Up! products!  I take requests for the projects they'd like to work on each month - and hold my breath.  Sometimes I get some over-the-top, challenging requests.  One of my gals has asked me to design a card that requires sewing - a bit out of my comfort zone, but I'm determined to make that happen!  Sometimes they bring in magazine clippings of projects they want me to replicate using stamps.  This month, my hostess requested  5x7 Autumnal Home Decor page that they could display in a frame.  Well, I just LOVED a card on the cover of the October issue of Stampin' Success Magazine and decided to turn it into a work of art.  I LOVE HOW THIS TURNED OUT!!!  Yes, it's a bit more involved than I would normally get for a stamp club (they made two other projects that night, too), but I've been stamping with these ladies for years and I knew they could do it.

Here's how we made this project:

1. We started off with a 5x7 piece of textured Old Olive Cardstock for the base.
2. We took a 1.5x7 inch piece of Old Olive Polka Dot DSP (from the stacks) and stamped the "Wonderfully Worn" background stamp in Old Olive Classic Ink.
3. Using our Stamp-a-Ma-Jig, we stamped the small flourish from "Style Beautiful" along the top edge of the DSP in Old Olive.
4. We then adhered our DSP to the bottom of the Old Olive textured base.
5. It was a bit of a challenge for me to figure out how SU had stamped the flourish behind Happy Thanksgiving.  I knew it was also from "Style Beautiful", but I couldn't quite figure out how they got it to line up.  So, I stamped one on my Stamp-a-Ma-Jig and laid it right on top of the Stampin' Success cover!  Ah Ha!  Mystery Solved!  In Cajun Craze, we stamped the flourish behind the Happy Thanksgiving sentiment four times - each one turned a 1/4 turn on a piece of 2x7 Very Vanilla Cardstock.
6. We distressed the 2x7 Very Vanilla using the square stamp in the Distressing Essentials Kit and Crumb Cake Ink.  We also stamped the 2x7 Very Vanilla piece using the "Wonderfully Worn" stamp in Crumb Cake ink.
7. We adhered that to a piece of 2.5x7 Cajun Craze Textured Card stock and then ripped the edges.
8. We adhered a 1x7 inch piece of Newsprint DSP (also distressed the same way we distressed in step 6) and adhered it to the top of the Cajun Craze.
9. We then adhered the Very Vanilla/Cajun Craze/Newsprint ensemble to the Old Olive Textured card stock base.
10. Next we cut out a leaf using our Leaves #2 Die out of More Mustard Textured Card Stock and then ran it back through the Big Shot to emboss it with the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder and adhered it to the right side of the vanilla strip on the base.
11. We stamped the "Happy Thanksgiving" sentiment from the "Thankful For" stamp set in Early Espresso Ink on a 1x5 inch piece of Very Vanilla Paper - also distressed with the Wonderfully Worn stamp in Crumb Cake Ink.
12. We tore the edges and adhered it to a piece of 1.5x5 inch piece of Early Espresso Textured Card Stock and ripped the edges so it was slightly larger than the vanilla layer.  We adhered the sentiment to the base with Dimensionals.
13. Finally, we embellished the sentiment with a knot of Victoria Lace Trim adhered with a Glue Dot.

Did you follow all of that???

Twelve Weeks of Christmas - Week Three

Happy Friday!  It's time for another fun Christmas project!  I've seen similar wreaths online and I immediately knew I wanted to make my own - and I even had the materials sitting around the house to make it!

The base of the wreath is a wire wreath frame.  It has 4 wire circles.  I simply cut 1-1/3 packages of Deck the Halls Designer fabric into 1"x6" strips.  Then, I tied them around the wires with a single knot.  No sewing required!  I didn't even actually measure the fabric!  I eyeballed the strips.  I let it fray.  I didn't even iron the fabric first!  Yes, it's so simple, anyone can do it!  I will warn you - make sure you have a lint roller handy!

Here are a couple of additional close-up photos of the front and back of the wreath.

Stampin' Up! Starter Kit

I LOVE the new Stampin' Up! Starter Kit!  I had the opportunity to get up close and personal with it this summer when Stampin' Up! invited me to present at their national convention in Utah.  You may remember me blogging about that. 

Right now is the perfect time to invest in the starter kit.  Not only do you get over $310 in products (for only $175), you also get this gorgeous tote bag AND a bonus stamp set out of the 2011 Occasions Mini Catalog - it's super cute!  What I love most about the starter kit is how flexible it is!  You can mix and match and swap out most of the items in the kit!  So, last night I sat down and customized my own starter kit using many of the stamp sets in the current Holiday Mini Catalog.  Why?  Because I'm hosting an event TONIGHT where you can learn more about the kit!  Myself and a couple of demonstrators on my team are getting together to answer your questions.  So far about five people have RSVP'd to join us - and it's not too late if you're interested, too!  There's absolutely no obligation to purchase the starter kit if you join us.  Feel free to drop in just for the snacks, socialization, and stamping!

We'll be here to answer your questions, go over some of the highlights and benefits of being a demonstrator and give out door prizes while you check out the standard starter kit and make a couple of cards!  Do you want to see the cards we'll be making tonight?  Everyone who comes gets to make both of these cards absolutely free!  These are the cards I made with my "Holiday Mini" version of the starter kit.  Here's what I used (and I didn't use everything that you can get in the kit):

• Day of Gratitude Stamp Set
• French Foliage Stamp Set
• Christmas Postcard Stamp
• Cherry Cobbler Stampin' Write Marker
• Garden Green Stampin' Write Marker
• More Mustard Classic Ink
• Old Olive Classic Ink
• Early Espresso Classic Ink
• Cajun Craze Classic Ink
• Regals Card Stock
• Regals Designer Paper Stack
• Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon
• Very Vanilla Card Stock
• Blender Pen
• Stampin' Sponge

Fall Stamp Class

In this class you'll make five fall-themed cards using many of the stamp sets and accessories found in the 2010 Holiday Mini Catalog.

Sunday, October 17th - 2pm-4:30pm
Thursday, October 21st - 7pm-9:30pm

Feel free to e-mail me (kristinkortonick@yahoo.com) or use the online registration form below to register!  Space is limited!!!

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Halloween Candles

I was SO happy when I found these candles at a local store last month.  I was practically jumping for joy when I spotted Rich Razzleberry candles!  I instantly knew I was going to make a Halloween Candlescape to display at my open house.  Yes, I know, the orange candle isn't decorated - I ran out of time.  But, I'm not sure it really needs anything - the other two are pretty awesome!

I used the Wicked Fun Specialty Paper on the Razzleberry Candle along with some Old Olive cardstock, Black Satin ribbon, and some leftover black jewels.  I used the swirl from the black jewels package to decorate the olive candle.  I LOVE that candle!!!  I was worried that the jewels wouldn't stick to the candle, but it wasn't a problem at all!

I also cut out some circles of DSP for my candles to sit on.  My only complaint is that these adorable candles make me sneeze whenever I go near them!!!

Fall Basket

Yes, I'm still working on getting my Holiday Open House projects posted.  Are you sick of Halloween yet?  I have one more project to show you, but I need to take another photo.  But, in the meantime, how about a fun fall basket?

I just love how this turned out!  I picked up the basket at my local craft store while I was out shopping for "alterable items".  I cut out a bunch of leaves using the Autumn Spice Specialty Designer Series Paper.  If you haven't actually touched this paper, it's awesome!  It's actually textured, heavy-weight card stock!  It's significantly thicker than our regular patterned paper.  I cut the leaves using the Leaves #2 die in my Big Shot.  I actually adhered them to the basket with dimensionals.

I folded some Old Olive striped ribbon and adhered it around the top band.  I tacked down the end using a Vintage Brad.  I will be pulling this basket out every fall.  How am I using it?  I've got it filled with our remote controls!!!  Somehow I doubt they'll ever stay in the basket, but that's the plan!

Halloween Candy Jar

Okay...this jar had more candy in it before my Open House last weekend, but thankfully some of my guests weren't afraid to eat the candy!  I told them that if it was edible, even if it was on display, they were welcome to eat it!

This is another fun project where I used Spooky Things decor elements on the jar.  I used Old Olive Satin ribbon and the Raven black lace trim on the top of the jar.  Inside, the little Hershey Nuggest are each wrapped in the Nite Owl DSP found in the Holiday Mini Catalog. 

Halloween Treat Bags

Did you notice the Mini Lunch Sacks in the Holiday Mini Catalog?  I love these!  They are a perfect size for a little gift of goodies.  And, they come pre-scalloped!  The best part - the scallops coordinate PERFECTLY with our scallop edge punch!

I made this trio for my Open House display.  I rolled the Midnight Musings Jumbo Wheel in basic black along the bottom.  I then punched a bit of Pumpkin Pie using my scallop edge punch to adhere the flap.  I tied them up with some Basic Black Striped Grosgrain ribbon - SO EASY!  I'd love to make these for the Trick or Treaters who stop by my house this year, but I get around 200 kids who stop by!!!  YIKES! 

And, yes, I'm still in Utah!  This morning Stampin' Up! is treating us to an exclusive, private Regional Event!  Each year Stampin' Up! travels to a variety of locations throughout the country for mini-conventions.  They're coming to Baltimore in October.  I'm going to that one too since there are about 21 of my "sidelines" and "downlines" attending.  One of my sidelines is even a presenter at Baltimore!  I can't wait to see her on stage!!!  But, today's event was a FREE perk for those of us who won.  I can't wait to see what's in store!  We'll be making projects using the Day of Gratitude stamp set in the Holiday Mini - I'll be sharing those later.  And, tonight is the Sock Hop and Share - in our PJs, of course!  I've been working hard to make 135 swap cards to share with my fellow Founder's Circle achievers - many of you have seen my swap on display in my classroom over the past month.  I was FLATTERED that many of you loved it at my open house - if you couldn't make it, no worries, I'll be finally posting it tomorrow! 

BOO!

My friend, Andrea, hosted a workshop for me last weekend, too.  She wanted a Halloween theme and requested a 3D item!  Here's what I designed for her.  I think it's SO stinkin' cute.  And, all of the workshop guests loved making fun expressions with those little eyes.

I simply took some of the Wicked Fun DSP and adhered it to a piece of chipboard of the same size.  I used the new Sizzix Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets to adhere the DSP to the chipboard - super simple (I've been saying that a lot recently).  We then ran it through the Big Shot using the Top Note die.  I just love how the perforation shows up when you cut chipboard!

We cut the letters out of the SU Simple Letters Alphabet.  But, to make life easy (again) we used the Sizzix Multipurpose sheets.  This time, I adhered an entire sheet of card stock to the adhesive sheet and cut it into squares.  We ran it through the Big Shot and they only had to peel off the backing to adhere it to their chipboard hanging.  Are you following that?  I'm a better demonstrator than I am describer!

We used the 3/4" circle and 1/2" circle punches to make the eyes.  We used our Crop-a-Dile to punch some holes, inserted Antique Brass Jumbo Eyelets, and used Basic Black Grosgrain ribbon to create the hanger.  Oh, and we punched some bats!

FYI....I'm still in Utah, so feel free to click here to see everything I've been up to and have planned over the next few days.

Headed to Utah!

So, when this post appears on my blog, I will be sitting on a Delta airplane headed back to Utah for the Founder's Cirlce retreat.  THANK YOU, again, for helping me achieve that honor this past stamping year.  I will be there until Sunday - and posting TONS (I hope).  I already have the "Founder's Circle Section" of my blog up and ready for posting!  There's some info up there now about the activites I get to enjoy over the next few days.

But, I've also scheduled posts showing more of my projects from last weekend's Open House.  So, you might want to check back multiple times a day!

Today's project is a SIMPLE frame that I made using the Wicked Fun DSP.  Did you know the bats are flocked???  LOVE IT!  I used an entire 12x12 sheet.  Then I rubbed on the Happy Halloween sentiment from the Spooky Things decor elements.  I love both collections of decor elements in the mini catalog.  You can cut them apart and do SO MANY things with them!  I think I used the Halloween decor on at least four different projects - and I still haven't used the bird!

Haunted House

When I saw the house kit in the new Holiday Mini Catalog, I was instantly in love.  However, Brent demonstrated a Haunted House version that was very awesome!  I couldn't wait to make my own.  It was SO simple to make!  I purchased a can of black spray paint and while it was still went, sprinkled our black glitter over the entire house.  It's amazing in the light!

After it dried, I adhered vellum paper to the windows.  I sponged Pumpkin Pie ink over the vellum and stamped the bats from the Wicked Stamp set.

The Happy Halloween banner over the door was stamped from the Dark & Dreary stamp set with some Silver Waffle Paper behind.  I punched some bats from DSP, embellished with the Black Jewels, and stuck a battery-operated candle inside!  Super fun and super simple!  Oh, and super affordable, too!  The houses are only $5.95 - why not build a town?!?!?

2010 Holiday Mini Open House

Wow!  What a fun weekend!  Yesterday I held my 2010 Holiday Mini Extravaganza (Open House).  It was great to visit with some of my regular customers, a couple of customers I hadn't seen in years, and a couple of brand new ones, too! 

I confess, I didn't go to bed on Friday night because I couldn't stop stamping.  However, around 3am on Saturday morning I realized that I had overdone it on Halloween, didn't have nearly as much Christmas as I thought I had, and pretty much skipped over Thanksgiving - with the exception of a couple of items.  But, everyone was pleased with the displays. 

I'm sharing with you samples of my Christmas and Halloween displays.  There were several other sample boards containing tons of card samples from convention, previous workshops, and other random events.  I always welcome cameras!  So, it was so flattering to watch everyone taking photos of my projects.  I'm so flattered when you LOVE what I've created!

Everyone also made two quick and simple Make and Takes.  Neither are Kristin Originals.  They were both inspired by cards I received from other demonstrators and I tweaked them a bit.  The fall card was inspired by Claire Lawrence - my upline.  The Holiday card was inspired by one of my favorite swaps from convention made by Amy Smith from Arizona.  Her's was a GORGEOUS pink and brown Christmas card.  I loved her color combo because it was different.  But, many of my customers commented that they'd like it in traditional Christmas colors - so that's what I did.

If you're curious who won my door prizes, Patty Jo won a $40 shopping spree and Suzie won a hostess set!  Congrats ladies!

Stay tuned, I will be posting photos of some of the projects over the next few days.  Check back soon!

More Greeting Card Kids!

Remember last week?  I talked about how I fell in love with this silly stamp set?  Well, here's another project I designed using it.  Do you think my watercoloring is improving at all?  I've been using our ink pads and blender pens to watercolor.  Don't lie to me...am I getting better?

So, here are the supplies I used on this gal:

• Greeting Card Kids Stamp Set
• Rich Razzleberry, Pumpkin Pie, Cajun Craze, Old Olive, Soft Suede, So Saffron, Basic Gray, and Blush Blossom (marker).  Jet Black Stazon
• Blender Pens
• Black Flourish Designer Jewels
• Cajun Craze and Basic Black Card Stock.  Watercolor Paper.  Wicked Fun Specialty DSP.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm just moving through the holidays, aren't I?  Here's another card I designed for Mary's workshop last week.  It uses a returning favorite from last year's Holiday Mini Catalog!  Mary was SO happy this stamp set was "promoted" to the big catalog this year....she didn't get it last year!  This card was super easy and fun to make!  I could see myself making a stack of these cards to send out this fall!  It certainly could work for a variety of occasions.

Here are the supplies we used on this guy:

• Autumn Splendor and Thankful For Stamp Sets
• More Mustard, Riding Hood Red, Soft Suede, and Always Artichoke Classic Ink
• More Mustard, Soft Suede, Riding Hood Red, and Very Vanilla Card Stock

Mary's Wicked Cool Workshop Card

I designed this fun card (with some inspirational help from the September Stampin' Success Magazine) for Mary's workshop.  What's Stampin' Success Magazine?  What, you haven't seen that on the rack at your local big box craft store?  Of course not!  That's one of the perks of being a demonstrator.  Each month, Stampin' Up! sends us a beautiful magazine packed full of fun ideas.  I'm especially looking forward to the November 2010 issue!  You'll have to ask me why!

Here are the supplies we used on this card:

• Wicked Cool Stamp Set
• Bring on the Bats Jumbo Wheel
• Bitty Bat Punch
• Rich Razzleberry Satin and Striped Ribbon
• Versamark, Basic Black, and Rich Razzleberry Inks
• Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive, Very Vanilla, and Basic Black Card Stock

Greeting Card Kids - Halloween

Okay, seriously, this stamp set is NOT my style.  But, I made three cards (maybe more) last week using this adorable little witch.  What's gotten into me?  I don't like to watercolor.  I don't like "cutesy".  Someone take my temperature!  But, I LOVE this stamp set!!!

I used some fun products on this card, too.  Hello?  Did you remember we have chunky black glitter?  I sure didn't!  But, a lot of people have pulled it out recently for Halloween projects...and so did I!

Here's everything I used to make this cutesy card:

• Greeting Card Kids Stamp Set
• Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Cajun Craze, Rich Razzleberry, Basic Gray, Soft Suede, Blush Blossom (marker), So Saffron Classic Inks
• Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black, and Rich Razzleberry Card Stock.  Watercolor Paper.
• Old Olive Striped Ribbon
• Tombo Liquid Adhesive
• Chunky Essentials Glitter (in black)
• Big Shot
• Spider Web Embossing Folder (Holiday Mini)
• 2-1/2" Circle Punch (Holiday Mini)

Wicked Cool Projects....Revealed

Last week I announced a bonus class for the month of September.  When I mentioned it at a workshop, six of the nine guests in attendance immediately signed up.  Another guest requested an additional date for Monday, September 13th.  Now that they're signed up, I sure hope they like the projects!!! 

Here are the four projects that all attendees will get to make.  AND, they'll be going home with the Wicked Cool stamp set and a package of Black Flourish Designer Jewels!  There's still room, but you have to hurry!  Registration closes on September 1st so that I can get all of your goodies ordered!

- Thursday, September 9th - 7pm
- Monday, September 13th - 7pm

You may e-mail me (kristinkortonick@yahoo.com) to register.  Or, you may use the order form below to register immediately!  Hope to see you there!

Online event registration for Wicked Cool Halloween Class powered by Eventbrite

Inspiration for these projects was provided by (whether they know it or not):  Mary Fish, Angie Juda, Dawn Griffith, and Heather Summers.  None of the projects are exactly like theirs, but some of the elements are close enough that I felt I should share the credit!

Pumpkins

You may have seen similar pumpkins floating around the internet (I know I have).  This year, at the Stampin' Up! Convention, Brent Steele demonstrated how to make these.  Every time I say, "this year, at the Stampin' Up! Convention", I hear myself saying, "one time, at band camp"!!!  You know that line from the movie American Pie?  I hope you don't feel that way!

ANYWAY...Brent showed us how to make these pumpkins (you can click on the photo to make it larger).  So, I ran out to my local craft store even before my mini catalog pre-order arrived because I wanted to make them, too.  Brent's were made with white pumpkins.  I stood in the store for about five minutes with a pumpkin in each hand trying to decide between white or orange.  I'm glad I chose white!  Brent's were a couple of different sizes, but I decided to go all the same size - I'm a matchy-matchy kinda girl.

They were SUPER easy to make - I took one package of the soon-to-be-released Black Flourish jewels in the Holiday Mini Catalog.  Yes, it only takes one package if you get creative with the swirls.  I then took the Spooky Things Decor Elements (only $14.95) in black....and voila....decor pumpkins!  Oh, and I also tied them together with 1/4" black grosgrain.  I'm not sure why...but Brent's were tied together, therefore mine needed to be tied together.  Whatever!

Many of you have told me that you received your Holiday Mini Catalogs last week, both of the products used to decorate these pumpkins can be found on page 8.  You'll notice that there are other images included in the Decor Elements.  You'll just have to attend my Holiday Mini Extravaganza on September 11th to see what else I've made!  Ha Ha!!!

Did you do the math?  It cost less than $20 in products to decorate these pumpkins!  And, I had LOTS of leftover product for other projects.  Granted, you have to buy the pumpkins.  But, even in early August, my big box craft store had them on sale for 40% off!

Wicked Cool Halloween

If you stalk my "Classes and Events" section of my blog, you may have noticed that I quietly added a new class to my calendar in September.  I mentioned this class in my workshop last night and six ladies quickly signed up!  So, I thought I'd bring it to your attention before you miss out.  However, due to the popularity of the class so far, I may add another session later in September!  Currently, only two seats remain!!!

I have absolutely fallen in love with this adorable Halloween stamp set.  I've seen so many cute projects that feature this set.

In this class, you will receive your very own Wicked Cool stamp set, an entire package of Black Flourish Designer Jewels (in the Holiday Mini), and you'll make four adorable projects!  This class is a GREAT value!!

Materials Fee:
- Clear Mount Option (includes $19.90 in products) - $30
- Wood Mount Option (includes $24.90 in products) - $35

You may use the online ticket option below to register immediately!  Or, you may e-mail me (kristinkortonick@yahoo.com) if you would prefer to use cash or check.  Because I'm including stamp sets with this class, you must register by Wednesday, September 1st.

Online event registration for Wicked Cool Halloween Class powered by Eventbrite

August Die Cut Divas

Last night was the first of my three Die Cut Divas classes for this month.  It was REALLY hard for me to come up with projects this week.  I was SO inspired by SO many of the Big Shot dies and raw materials coming out in the Holiday Mini.  And, I didn't receive my pre-order in time to design projects for August.  It's okay, though.  There is SO much in the next Holiday Mini that it's going to take all four months for me to just scratch the surface with the new goodies!

So, when I was stuck, I turned to PaperCrafts magazine this month for inspiration.  I jumped for joy when it arrived in my mailbox on Tuesday!  This month's edition is packed full of cute ideas - many using SU products!  Both cards pictured here are cased from cards in PaperCrafts.  The Halloween card uses the wood sheets that SU sells and bats punched from the new Bat Punch.  The cards the girls made last night look a teeny bit different.  I let them play with some of my new Holiday Mini goodies.  They added some bling to their bats using the new self-adhesive black rhinestone jewel things.  See, they're so new I don't even know what they're called!!! 

The basket was a project I've had in mind for a couple of months.  I love the Basket from the Basket and Blooms die embossed with that texturey folder from the Occasions Mini.  Oh my gosh...the real product names are escaping me! 

I'm offering this class on Friday and Sunday afternoons this week.  There's still room!  If you've purchased a Big Shot from me, you can attend for FREE!!!  Otherwise, you're welcome to attend for $10.  Please e-mail me if you'd like to attend!

Thankful Decor Blocks

I LOVE the wooden blocks in the Holiday Mini Catalog.  I've also fallen completely in LOVE with the Autumn Meadows DSP in the Holiday Mini Catalog.  I joke that I thought the paper was the "ugliest in the catalog" based upon the teeny tiny swatches in the catty.  But, when you look at the paper in person, it's absolutely GORGEOUS!

Inspired by the blocks in the catalog, I made my own vinyl letters for these blocks using some raw Chocolate Chip vinyl, my Big Shot, and the Serif Essentials Alphabet.  I just LOVE the result!

Make Your Own!!!

Do you want to make your own set of Thankful blocks???  No problem!  I've scheduled a class where you can make your own set for $35.  It is scheduled for Wednesday, October 28th at 7pm.  Email me to register!

The class fee includes:

• 2 Sets of Wooden (3"x3") Decor Blocks (Holiday Mini Catalog)
• 1/2 Pack of Autumn Meadows DSP - you'll have leftover paper to keep for future projects
• 1 Anywhere Glue Stick
• Chocolate Chip Vinyl (you'll receive pre-cut letters if you order the "in-the-mail" kit)

Can't attend or live too far?  No problem!  I'm able to offer this class in the mail!  Your kit will include all of the supplies listed above plus step-by-step instructions.  I recommend that you provide your own hobby blade and sanding block to trim off any excess paper from the blocks, if necessary.  Classes will ship via USPS Priority Mail.  Total cost, including postage is $45.  Simply use the PayPal link below to order yours today!  Kits will ship the last week of October.  Or, feel free to e-mail me with other questions.

Wandering Words - Holiday Mini Swaps

Okay, okay....I guess the weekend is over...time to get back to work!!!

At our monthly downline meeting this month, a dozen or so of us are swapping cards made using stamp sets from the new Holiday Mini Catalog.  What's a downline meeting you ask?  It's our monthly demonstrator get-together!  I hate calling them meetings, because they're too fun for that boring title!  We chat, swap cards, stamp, and share ideas...oh yeah, and eat!  This month they've asked ME to conduct a "mock workshop".  I hope they know what they're asking for!!!  Do you want to see me conduct a workshop?  Contact me - I would love to do one for you and your friends!

Anyway...I was SO in love with this card that I just couldn't wait to share it online!!!  It's inspired by a couple of cards I've seen on other blogs and some techniques we learned at convention!

Let me tell you about my leaf!  First, I cut the maple leaf out of a 2.5" x 2.5" square of wood using my Big Shot and Leaves #2 die.  I LOVE the wood sheets in the Big Catalog.  And, you can get at least 10 leaves out of 1 sheet.

Next, I sponged some coordinating classic ink over the leaf using sponge daubers.  I used More Mustard and Close to Cocoa on this project.

Finally, I sponged just a wee bit of Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint along the edges of the leaf over the Close to Cocoa ink.  This stuff goes a LONG way!!!  They gave us some tips at convention this year.  They suggested dropping a little bit of the paint into the container's cap.  You then pick up just a bit of the paint with your sponge dauber - which conveniently fits perfectly inside the cap!

I thought the glittery edge made the leaf look like it was kissed by morning dew!

Here are all of the supplies I used to make this card:

• Wandering Words Stamp Set (Holiday Mini)
• Woodgrain Background Stamp
• Close to Cocoa Classic Ink
• Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint (Holiday Mini)
• Versamark Ink
• Autumn Meadow DSP (Holiday Mini)
• Close to Cocoa Card Stock
• More Mustard Card Stock
• Taken With Teal Card Stock
• Very Vanilla Card Stock
• Texture Cuts Wood Sheets
• Masterpiece Ribbon Originals
• Scallop Edge Punch
• Sponge Daubers

Grateful Leaves

One of the fun techniques I saw at convention showed the wood sheets dyed!!!  Why didn't I think of that?!?!?!  On this card, I ran the wood sheet through my Big Shot using the Leaves #2 Die.  I then sponged some coordinated classic ink on the wooden leaves.  So easy!!!

Here are the supplies I used to make this card:

• Grateful Greetings Stamp Set (Holiday Mini)
• Wood Sheets
• Leaves #2 Die
• Autumn Meadows DSP (Holiday Mini)
• Whisper White Card Stock
• Dusty Durango Card Stock
• Very Vanilla Card Stock
• Chocolate Chip Card Stock
• More Mustard Classic Ink
• Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
• Really Rust Classic Ink

Kelly's Stamp-a-Stack...Second Card

I was so flattered that Kelly liked my card that posted on August 5 (click here to view my original).  Unfortunately, my original design wasn't a great stamp-a-stack card since I just don't have enough DSP in that pattern to make 48 cards...or enough of the rub-ons!!!  But then we came across another swap I received at convention that I received from Teresa Clark (pictured at the bottom of this post).  At first I didn't realize her card had a stamped background using the Autumn Days stamp set.  It looks SO similar to the DSP.  It makes a great stamp-a-stack card!  We stuck with the layout from my card - especially since another of her cards already uses punched squares (see yesterday's post).  She wanted to omit the square card stock because she didn't want to cover up too much of the stamped background.  But we both agreed that the card needed something.  So, we decided on an Antique Brass Jumbo Eyelet along with some Dusty Durango Ribbon.  I LOVE it!

Here are the supplies we used to make this card:

• Autumn Days Stamp Set
• Sincere Salutations Stamp Set
• Crushed Curry Classic Ink
• Dusty Durango Classic Ink
• Soft Suede Classic Ink
• Rich Razzleberry Classic Ink
• Crushed Curry Card Stock
• Whisper White Card Stock
• Dusty Durango Card Stock
• Crop-a-Dile
• Antique Brass Jumbo Eyelets
• Dusty Durango Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon

Here's Teresa's original card:

Halloween Home Decor Blocks

There are new, wooden blocks in the upcoming Holiday Mini Catalog.  I can't wait to use them!  I'm working on a holiday home decor class where you can get your own set. 

So, after making the Halloween favor from yesterday, I was inspired.  I made my own blocks out of card stock using the Petal Card Die for the Big Shot.  I cut out some letters using the new Simple Letters Alphabet Dies in Old Olive, Basic Black, and Pumpkin Pie card stock.  I embellished the blocks with some of the Spooky Treats Rub-Ons, Cast-a-Spell DSP, Black Brads, and Black Grosgrain Ribbon.  How cute are these???  However, I felt like I was cutting out Petal Cards forever! 

Tip:  You can't cut more than 1 at a time since there are score lines on the dies.  The Big Shot will cut through the score lines when you try to cut multiple sheets at once.  So, I ran 18 pieces of card stock through, individually, for these blocks.  I get bored easily, it was torture.  But, the result is worth it!

Don't have a Big Shot???  Want to WIN one???  Click on the Big Shot picture below to learn how you can win a Big Shot from me!  Already have a Big Shot?!?!?  No worries...you can choose a $100 Gift Card instead!!!

Halloween Collection

I went a little nuts with Halloween this past weekend.  I made a card, an invitation, a party favor, and check back tomorrow for a coordinating home decor item!

First up...the card.  I showed this to my husband and he immediately commented that it wasn't my style.  He thought I should add some orange.  I kinda like the Olive/Black combo going on.  What do you think?

Here are the supplies I used to make the card:

• From the Crypt Stamp Set
• Spooky Treats Rub-Ons
• Cast-a-Spell DSP
• Basic Black Card Stock
• Whisper White Card Stock
• Basic Black Classic Ink
• Basic Black Narrow Grosgrain Ribbon

Next up...the Invitation.  This one too FAR longer than it should have.  Even though it's possible to apply rub-ons to our ribbon...it takes FOREVER!!!  My arm felt like it was going to fall off.  Definitely not a technique I'd actually use on an invitation.  But, I was determined to make it work.  And, yes....labor-intensive steps were popular on this project - I cut out all of the stamped images.  I was nuts.

Here are the supplies I used to make the invitation:

• Graveyard Gala Stamp Set
• From the Crypt Stamp Set
• Spooky Treats Rub-Ons
• Cast-a-Spell DSP
• Old Olive Striped Ribbon
• Basic Black Brads
• Basic Black Card Stock
• Very Vanilla Card Stock
• Old Olive Card Stock
• Basic Black Classic Ink

I made the favor last.  It's stinkin' simple....maybe because I killed myself on that stupid invitation!!!  I made this box with 7 Petal Card cut-outs.  One for each of the sides.  One for the bottom.  And, two for the lid.  The lid is tricky...if you make it too tight, you can't get it on the box.  But, it makes a very nice sized box.

Here are the supplies I used to make the favor:

• Petal Card Die
• Big Shot
• Old Olive Card Stock
• Basic Black Card Stock
• Old Olive Narrow Grosgrain Ribbon
• Spooky Treats Rub-Ons

Don't have a Big Shot???  Want to WIN one???  Click on the Big Shot picture below to learn how you can win a Big Shot from me!  Already have a Big Shot?!?!?  No worries...you can choose a $100 Gift Card instead!!!

Stampin' Up! Convention

It's finally here - it's Check-In Day for Convention!  I created a special section on my website just for convention.  Click on the following convention icon to read all about it!!!

 

As promised, I still have a daily sample for you!!!  Honestly, I really struggled with this card.  I don't know why!  I couldn't figure out which rub-on to use or whether I should stamp or not stamp.  Why are some cards harder to design than others???  I do like the result.  It's simple!  And, there's no stamping!

Here are the supplies I used on this card:

• Autumn Harvest Rub-Ons
• Autumn Traditions DSP
• Playground Designer Buttons (free in August with $35 purchase from the Growing Up Section of the catalog)
• Linen Thread
• Soft Suede Card Stock
• Crushed Curry Card Stock
• Elegant Eggplant Card Stock
• Whisper White Card Stock
• Dimensonals

Autumn Days

I designed this card for my Die Cut Divas, but my husband told me the inside didn't match with the outside so it got scrapped.  But, I still love the card front!  I didn't think I liked the Pheasant, but he's growing on me.  The pheasant brings back memories of my childhood.  My grandfather shot a pheasant and had it stuffed.  We carried that silly, stiff, dead bird around like a pet.  Gross, huh?

Anyway, here are the supplies I used to make this card:

• Autumn Days Stamp Set
• Great Friend Stamp Set
• Old Olive Card Stock
• Very Vanilla Card Stock
• Crushed Curry Card Stock
• Soft Suede Card Stock
• Soft Suede Classic Ink
• Soft Suede marker
• Old Olive Marker
• Linen Thread
• Jumbo Vanilla Brads
• Dimensionals

Halloween Swap

I made this card as my swap for our July Philly Inkers meeting earlier in the week.  They were picking on me for swapping a Halloween card!  But, I have been looking at the new Groom Specialty Paper and the new Eggplant Rick-Rack ribbon and they screamed Halloween to me.  I hadn't received any of the new Halloween stamps yet, but House of Haunts did the trick!  I also thought this card absolutely needed some Pumpkin Pie ribbon.  But, the only Pumpkin Pie ribbon that we offer is narrow grosgrain or striped stuff that just wasn't matching the mood of this card.  So, I made my own!  I pulled out some White Satin ribbon, my Pumpkin Pie Classic Ink Pad, and a sponge dauber.  A few minutes later, I had EXACTLY the look I was aiming for.  What do you think?

Here are the supplies I used to make this card:

• House of Haunts Stamp Set
• Pumpkin Pie Classic Ink
• Jet Black Stazon Ink
• Pumpkin Pie Card Stock
• Elegant Eggplant Card Stock
• Whisper White Card Stock
• Groom Specialty Paper
• Whisper White Satin Ribbon
• Orchard Ribbon Originals
• Stamp-a-Ma-Jig

And, no, my technical issues aren't resolved....I just bought a new computer.  Check it out!  Isn't it cute????  It fits perfectly in the front pocket of my purse!!

Halloween Scrapbook

Aren't the two kids in this picture adorable?  Do you know who they are?  Yup, that's me and my brother - dressed as witches!  I'm teaching him to play the piano. 

I designed this page for one of my stamp clubs this month.  I think the page would make a great framed picture to showcase your kids' Halloween costumes each year!  The black piece was sized to fit a 5x7 picture, but as you can see, my picture was only 3.5x4.5 - remember when that was the standard picture size???  So the picture didn't look quite as lost, I matted it on more Kiwi Kiss and Pumpkin Pie Cardstock.

I used the Big Shot and the Serif Essentials Alphabet for the title - I love those letters!  Yes, they're an investment, but they're a great size for all kinds of projects.  I used the 1 inch and 1/2 inch circle punches to make the eyeballs.

Boo Banner

Isn't this banner adorable?  My Die Cut Divas Club had the chance to make one of their very own last Wednesday.   We used both the Penant and the Serif Essentials Alphabet Dies with the Sizzix Big Shot.  We also used the Ghostly Greetings DSP with coordinating card stock and Kiwi Kiss Ribbon.  Wouldn't this look cute in your house too???

Fall Stamp-a-Stack

Wanna see the cards that we made last weekend at the Stamp-a-Stack???  Here they are!  Everyone got to make 4 of each of these cards.  I had all kinds of sentiments on the table so that everyone could customize the cards for various occasion.  Which is your favorite?  I'm torn between the Close to Cocoa/Baja Breeze card with the Pocket Sihouettes stamp set and the Flower for All Seasons card.  The Flower for All Seasons stamp set is growing on me.  Stampin' Up! gave it to me for free at convention.  How fun is that?!?!?

   

Big Shot Treat Bag

I think this bag looks a lot cuter in person, but I thought I'd share it with you anyway!  Last night another of my stamp clubs gathered for food, fun, and stamping.  The hostess specifically said - NO CARDS!  And she requested to learn how to use the Sizzix Big Shot.  Well, I think this project meets that criteria!

I simply ran a lunch bag through my Big Shot and cut out a window using the Stampin' Up! exclusive Top Note Bigz Die.  I love this die!  It's great on card fronts, bag toppers, bag windows, scrapbook pages, the options are endless!!!  I adhered some acetate inside the bag to create the window.  I then cut out leaves with the Leaves #2 Originals Die. 

Love that Ribbon???  That's more of the new Alpine Ribbon Originals from the Holiday Mini catalog and some of the new Rope Twine.

I created a tag using a scalloped chipboard square that I covered in Really Rust Craft Ink and Clear embossing Powder.  I stamped a sentiment in Chocolate Chip Classic Ink from the Thoroughly Thankful Stamp Set.

Upsy Daisy

Good morning dear friends!  Wow, what an eventful week this has turned out to be - I wish I could share everything, but some of it's top secret...at least for the moment.   But, in the meantime, I have squeezed in some time to stamp!  One of my stamp clubs meets tonight so I put together three projects for them this evening.  I always challenge myself when I design projects.  My challenge this time - use the 15% off Stamps, use new product, and use the Big Shot.  Tonight's hostess didn't have any special requests, so the sky was the limit!

The card I'm sharing with you today meets all three of those criteria.  It uses Upsy Daisy which is currently on sale for $16.11 through the end of September.  It uses the brand spankin' new Top Note Bigz Die - a Stampin' Up! exclusive for the Big Shot.  And, it uses Haiku DSP and So Saffron Poly Twill ribbon!  I love the colors in this card - I think it's a great fall card.  Heck, it's borderline masculine, too!

Just Jawing

Miss me?  I took the weekend off to relax and spend time with Mike.  I did get some organizing done, but sadly, no stamping.

I made this card last night.  I'm trying to stamp my way through my new stamp sets.  Whenever I see this stamp set, I picture this skull with glittery eyes - thanks to the catalog.  Except for the cutting, this card was simple to make.  Here are the supplies I used:

• Just Jawing Stamp Set (on sale this month)
• Basic Black Classic Ink
• Tangerine Tango Card Stock
• Kiwi Kiss Textured Card Stock
• Basic Black Card Stock
• Whisper White Card Stock
• Black Chunky Glitter
• Tombo Multi-Adhesive
• Ghostly Greetings DSP
• Rub-Ons

Blog Candy Winner and a New Class

Thank you EVERYONE for such uplifting comments on my blog yesterday!  I have decided that blog comments are better than therapy.  Granted, I've never tried therapy, but your comments were so inspiring and heart-warming - I can't believe anything would be better!

I will try to respond to your comments over the next couple of days.  I'll definitely try to incorporate some, if not all, of your feedback/suggestions over the next weeks and months ahead.  The winner of the blog candy is:

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

10	

Timestamp: 2008-08-27 10:51:17 UTC

Winning Name:  Allison P.

Allison said:  Hi Kristin, I love your website! Your postings from the convention were really good and I enjoyed checking them out everyday! Keep the new ideas coming!

I was going to say, send me an e-mail with your mailing address, but I can give you the free stamps when I see you next!!!  E-mail me if you'd like them sooner.  Congrats!

I'm also introducing a class that's been on my calendar for awhile.  But, last night I finally sat down and made the sample.  I just love the way it turned out.  What do you think?  I had some excellent pictures to work with - they are of my brother's wedding a few years ago.  They got married in October and the colors worked REALLY well with the Haiku DSP.  And, Brooke, my sister-in-law, even got to experience some of the design phase - and provided lots of helpful feedback.  She came over to scrapbook last night.  I really enjoyed being crafty with her!!!

You can make your own home decor with me in September.  I will also be offering it as an in-the-mail kit!  So, if you're located in another part of the country, you can make one too!!!  If you're attending in person, you'll get to play with the new Sizzix Big Shot...if you're taking it in the mail, I'll be doing the work for you!  The Class Page lists everything that is included in the class.  I am not pre-cutting the paper this time so that you can customize your wallhanging to work with your photos and theme.

But, let me tell you a little about this one - I cut out the leaves with the new Sizzix Big Shot.  I ran a sheet of the Board Basics through the Big Shot to make my own chipboard embellishments!  I then cut the card stock using the same die and got a perfect layer over top!  No more trimming with a hobby blade!!!  I distressed the leaves a bit using my Stipple Brush (boy, am I glad they didn't retire).  I stamped a small sentiment with To Have & To Hold Stamp Set.  I was also excited to play with some of the new ribbon.  I LOVE LOVE LOVE the So Saffron Poly Twill!  And, I love that we have Old Olive in Narrow AND Wide Grosgrains now too!!!  You want to make one, don't you???  Well hop on over and register!

Halloween Candlescape

Hello friends!  How was your weekend?  Mine was absolutely fun!!!  I spent the day on Saturday with friends.  I then locked myself in my classroom and played all afternoon on Sunday.  However, before going out with my friends on Saturday, I put together this darling Halloween Candlescape.  I had picked up these candles at a craft store over lunch on Friday (do you see a theme - lunch breaks = shopping?)  Anyway, my project ties in perfectly with a comment Jenn left on my blog the other day.  Jenn writes:

Quick question for you...what would you use some of the white rubons for?? In particular, the bats/pumpkins/faces/cauldron. I am having a hard time visualizing the versatility of it. Thanks in advance for your ideas:)

Well Jenn, you read my mind!  I picked up this black candle knowing I was going to rub on some of those white rub-ons!  I like the effect.  What do you think?  Sure, bats are traditionally black, but I like the reverse colors on the candle!  I think the white rub-ons would look great on any dark color.  For example, I think they'd look great on a black picture frame or scrapbook page! 

Besides using our Chills & Thrills rub-ons, I also used the Ghostly Greetings DSP along with some coordinating cardstock and ribbon.  I love the way you can see the reverse side of the DSP through the candle holders.  But, do you agree - do you think my pumpkin votive looks like Rambo with a bandana tied around his head???

House of Haunts

Okay...if we were placing bets about which card I'd make first when I received my first shipment of new catalog merchandise, this would NOT have been it!!!  Can you count how many new products I used on this card?  A LOT!!!

First, I'm loving the fact that all of the new stamp sets are die-cut!  I can be stamping with them in minutes!!!  So, let's see...first I used the brand new Top Note Bigz Die to cut the focal point layers.  The die actually has a perforation around the edge - so I trimmed the edge off of the white layer, sanded the rough spots with my sanding block, then sponged the edges with Perfect Plum Classic Ink to disguise any imperfections.  I layered the Whisper White on a layer of Tangerine Tango - hmmm - might be a bit bright for a Halloween card.  But, my original intention was to incorporate some of the new ribbon, but I didn't have any room at the end. 

I embossed the house image with VersaMark and Black Embosing Powder.  I then sponged some color in the moon, tombstones, and windows.  Since I sponged outside the lines, I then used my Stipple Brushes to apply color over the whole layer to disguise THOSE imperfections!!!  In the end, that was Mike's favorite part.

I decided to use Perfect Plum Card Stock as the base layered with some Tangerine Tango and paper from the new Ghostly Greetings DSP.  AND, the bats on the DSP I chose match perfectly with the bats in the Chills & Thrills Rub-Ons!!!  The small trio of bats and the sentiment are rub-ons!  Of course I had to work the Ticket Corner Punch in there somewhere.  What do you think?  New stamp set, new Sizzix die, new DSP, new Rub-Ons, and new In-Color Paper!!!

Then I just had to share this pic of some of the new ribbon - I believe the rest arrives tomorrow along with the new punches.  What was I thinking???  I ordered the punches with only 2-Day Air???

Intoducing Decor Elements Phase Two

I just received my shipment of convention orders.  So, stay tuned for another sneak peek later this afternoon.  But, first, let me introduce you to a sneak peek of one of the items you'll see in Phase Two of Stampin' Up!'s Decor Elements.  Only those of us who attended convention were able to order this!  You may remember seeing it in some of my convention photos - it was on a candy jar.  Very cute, but I wanted to do something different. 

This design comes with lots of long web so you can adjust it's height.  I only used about 2/3 or it.  I also changed the position of the word "spooky".  I kind of like it at the top of the arch in my china cabinet.  But, I think it's time to change out my spring china with something a little more festive for fall.

I cannot wait to see what other surprises Stampin' Up! has in store for us this fall!!!