Stampin' with Kristin

Love Blossoms Banner

Okay, okay....I know I've been absent for awhile.  I have a brand new house to decorate!   But I've been neglecting my stamping.  My "to stamp" list is miles long.  The people at the Post Office don't even recognize me yet and I've lived here for 3 months!  Well, I'm determined to get back on track and get some classes scheduled - online AND in person!  Yes, that's right!  I'll be starting up some local, Utah classes.  But, I'll also be in New Jersey throughout the year holding events there, too.

I have a very simple project to share with you.  A little background, first.  I went to a Pinners Conference back in November.  I don't remember if I posted about it or not (it doesn't look like it).  You'd love the Pinners Conference!  It's just a fun conference with speakers that present on things you might see on Pinterest - crafts, baking, finances, organization, and more.  I went to check out the crafty stuff.  And, Becky Higgins (you know, Project Life) was speaking.  I wanted to hear her and get some Project Life tips to incorporate into my Project Life by Stampin' Up! projects.  Different vendors had all sorts of fun things, too. 

I stumbled upon a local company that sells wood in all shapes in sizes for you to paint, cover with paper, and embellish.  Well, that was right up my alley!  I made a cute sign at the event but also raced over to their store to see what else they had.  Many of their projects had you covering wood with patterned scrapbook paper.  Hmmm...Stampin' Up! has patterend scrabook paper, right?  It's taken me awhile, but I finally incorporated my two passions into today's project.  They sell a variety of wooden pieces to make banners.  In fact, I made an adorable 16 "panel" mini Valentine banner over the weekend.  But, I also picked up these larger wooden "panels" to use with Stampin' Up! products.  The wooden pieces measure 3"x4" and are 1/4" thick.  The holes are pre-drilled. 

I first sanded and painted each piece.  For the projects in the store, they tell you exactly which paint to buy (kinda like Stampin' Up! where everything coordinates).  I used a pale pink and white paint on this banner.  I then chose three patterns from the Love Blossoms Designer Series Paper Stack and cut them to fit the panels.  I adhered the paper to the panels using a wood glue they suggest.  But, I think our Tombo Multipurpose Liquid Adhesive would work just fine, too.  I then sanded the edges of the paper (after it was adhered to the wood) to smooth out the edges that were hanging over the sides.

For the fourth panel, I painted the whole thing white.  I also picked up a pre-cut wooden heart that I knew I was going to cover in the Blushing Bride Glimmer Paper.  First I painted the edges of the wooden heart in pale pink ink.  Then I simply traced the heart on the back of the glimmer paper and hand-cut the heart.  I adhered it with the wood glue as well and sanded.  Did you spot it?  I'll give ya a hint....it's on the panel on the right.  If you look closely, you'll notice one heart is larger than the rest.

Finally, I added one teeny tiny little heart from the Love Blossoms Embellishment Kit that I also painted white.  Then I strung the whole thing together with White Baker's Twine.  What do you think?  I haven't figured out where I'm going to hang it.  Between my two wooden Valentine's Day banners and this month's Paper Pumpkin, I'm feeling the love!

If you're thinking something like this would make a fun class, don't worry - so do I!  Stay tuned!

Stampin' Supplies:  All of the Stampin' Up! supplies used to create today's project are shown below.  Feel free to click on each image to learn more about each product or purchase them in my online store.   There's also a nifty link on the bottom left that'll allow you to create your own printable list of all of the supplies!

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! Products Online

Love Blossoms Designer Series Paper Stack - 140548

Price: $8.00

Love Blossoms Embellishment Kit - 140551

Price: $12.00

Blushing Bride Glimmer Paper - 140550

Price: $5.00

Whisper White Baker's Twine - 124262

Price: $3.00

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The Kortonick's Homemade Holidays

This year Mike and I decided to make some homemade goodies to give as gifts this year to our family.  We had fun experimenting with some new recipes and making some old favorites.  We made six different varieties of cookies plus homemade marhsmallows.  Here are the cookie varieties we made:
- Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Cut Out Sugar Cookies
- White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cranberry Cookies
- Gingerbread Cookies (made using the Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps)
- Fluffy Sugar Cookies
- Shortbread Cookies

I found awesome food gift boxes at a local shop.  I didn't really want to use tins as I wanted the recipients to feel like they could throw them away and not add to the clutter left behind by the holiday season.  However, I have a pretty good feeling my mom kept hers.  The boxes had a bit of a glossy/waxy finish so I heat embossed snowflakes and sentiments on all four sides.  I also found printed, waxed paper to line the boxes that coordinated perfectly with the Cherry Cobbler ribbon and embossing.  We tied them up with some Stampin' Up! ribbon and some jingle bells.  No one wanted to unwrap the boxes (I rewrapped a couple upon request).

We packaged the marshmallows separately in the Gusseted Cellophane Bags from the Holiday Catalog.  If you didn't get any, don't worry, they're still avaiable.  Anyway, I had NO idea you could even make homemade marshmallows!  But, my demonstrator friend, Mary Ellen Byler, gave me some at a Leadership Conference a couple of years ago and I never forgot!  I stumbled across a recipe this holiday season and knew this was the year to make them.  THEY ARE AMAZING and pretty simple to make.  Mike and I have already agreed that we'll be making a batch to serve at my Sale-a-Bration Open House later this month - I'll also be sharing the recipe to everyone who stops by.  I think I may be starting a new Open House tradition - recipe giveaways!

Twelve Weeks of Christmas - Week 10

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas around here, but it certainly doesn't feel like it!  It was close to 70 degrees here in New Jersey today.  Yuck!  But, that's not stopping my holiday prep!  I successfully mailed out 160 Christmas Cards this morning.  I'm sure I'll be sending more out as I remember people I may have accidentally forgotten or whose address I'm still trying to hunt down.  I'll be honest about that.  I love getting the bulk of those out the door - it allows me to stamp for fun for the rest of the month!  I don't know about you, but I don't feel like I can stamp for fun until I get those need-to-do projects off of my list.

When I first saw the Watercolor Winter Stamp Set, I immediately thought of all kinds of non-card projects that I wanted to make.  One of my Christmas sets of China (yes, one of) is the traditional Lenox Holiday pattern.  And the holly in this stamp set coordinates beautifully!  I can imagine menus and place cards and invitations....and candles!  An entire coordinated Christmas dinner table!

It's been years since I've made one of these candles - and they're super easy!  Here's what you do...

- Cut a piece of white tissue paper the size of your candle. 
- Stamp your images on the tissue paper.  For my holly candle I actually used my Cherry Cobbler and Gumball Green Markers, along with my Stamp-a-Ma-Jig, to create the coordinating holly.  For the pointsettia candle, I simply stamped in Cherry Cobbler.  I "stamped off" the solid layer of the images for both candles.
- When you've completed your stamping, lay the tissue paper around the candle. 
- Next, wrap a layer of waxed paper around the candle - covering the tissue.  I like to keep my waxed paper a little longer so that I have a handle. 
- Using your heat tool (on the low setting), move the heat tool all over the candle like you would if you were heat embossing.  You'll see the candle start to look moist as the top layer of wax begins to melt.  At that point, move on.  You don't want it getting too melted.
- When the entire candle has been heated, gently remove the waxed paper.  Sometimes I'll "touch up" the candle over any spots where the tissue didn't melt into the wax or to smooth any rough edges.  I simply hit those spots again with the heat tool (again, on low).
- Then embellish!  I tied some Cherry Cobbler Seam binding around the tall candle.  I dotted the middles of the flowers using some Silver Sparkle Dazzling Details.

Secret Santa Gift

Last night about a dozen of demonstrators on my team gathered at my home for our annual Christmas Party.  It was an enjoyable evening filled with food, sharing, and creativity.  Most of the participants took part in a Secret Santa gift exchange.  The rules were very "loose" with the only restriction being that it should include SU supplies in some way.  Every single one of the projects was gorgeous.  All of the items were some sort of home decor.  Several of the gals made ornaments.  Some were glittery balls, one was heat embossed, and one made using chipboard.  Lynn made a beautiful fabric tray filled with brownies.  Hallie made everyone little Santa favors.  Patty Jo made an adorable night light that she stamped images from one of my all-time favorite stamp sets.  Darlene made a gorgeous wreath inspired by the one in the Holiday Mini Catalog.  And, I made this wooden sign. 

To make the sign, I took a piece of scrap wood and painted it.  I cut letters and butterflies using my Big Shot out of some DSP that you'll be able to earn for FREE during Sale-a-Bration next year!  I "tacked" the letters down using some SNAIL - only to hold them in place.  I then painted a coat of Mod Podge over the top of the sign to seal the letters.  I embellished the sign with some of the FREE brads you can also earn during SAB next year.  I cut the "legs" off of the brads and attached them to the middle of the butterflies using my hot glue gun.  I'm really pleased with the results and see lots of possibilities! 

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!!!

Even the Water Bottles Were Festive!

I'm wrapping up my posts about my Holiday Mini Open House - I have one more to go - and it's one of my favorites.  Check back tomorrow!

But, I just had to share this one!  I even decorated my water bottles for the Open House!  I picked up 70 bottles!  I cut the label off of the bottle and replaced it with a 8" x 1-1/2" strip of Candy Cane Christmas Specialty Designer Series Paper.  And, don't worry, if you missed it, I'm sure I'll be serving them up for the next month or so at my events!  I still have a few left!

Candy Cane Frame

Did you know that Stampin' Up! sells a picture frame?  Well, if you didn't, you do now!  It can be found in the Definitely Decor catalog on page 9.  It holds a 4x4 picture but it's actually a 12x12 frame.  It gives you plenty of space to decorate!  I chose to use the Candy Cane Christmas Decor Elements - another assortment in the Holiday Mini catalog that can be broken up and used a variety of different ways.  I wanted to find a picture to put inside, but I couldn't lay my hands on one.  So, I took a 4x4 square of Candy Cane Christmas DSP and put it inside!  I think it works!

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. 

Kathleen's Gum Wrappers

 I'm revisiting convention again....are you tired of hearing about it?  While I was on stage, I shared a few projects that new demonstrators can make with the products in the starter kit - including hostess gifts and door prizes.  One of my current favorite door prizes to give out is a Hershey bar wrapped in DSP with a bow around it....and a stamped sentiment if I have time!  I explained that what "seasoned stampers" may see as something simple and basic, isn't simple and basic to everyone.

Case in point....

After I returned from convention, I noticed two of packs of gum in my purse while I was at work a day or so after getting home.  They were each wrapped in some DSP and had a bow tied around them.  That's it.  Nothing else.  They were leftover from convention.  I was about to rip the wrappers off and throw them away.  I hesitated and asked if the two gals who were at work with me that day if they wanted them.  They LOVED them!  Over the next couple of days, I watched the women gently slide the DSP off of the gum and take a piece out to chew.  They would then gently replace the DSP.  But, it completely BLEW ME AWAY that they loved such a simple little gift.  (I know you're both probably reading this.) 

WELL...a few days later my teammate, Kathleen, returned to work.  She was on vacation the day I gave out the prized gum wrappers.  Kathleen and I are on one team.  The other two gals sit with us, but are on another team.  I wasn't too popular when she found out I only had two and none for her.  At one point, she asked if I'd make her one.  I promised I would. 

The days went by and I didn't make Kathleen's gum wrapper.  (I even had an extra pack of gum.)  Almost every day recently Kathleen has walked into work, peered over at the other girls and noted their pretty gum wrappers and made a smart remark.  WOW!  I had NO IDEA how much this gum wrapper meant to her.  So, I knew I had to fix it.  (I'm typing this last Tuesday, 8/10).  Kathleen's gum wrappers are made....all NINE of them pictured here.  Her's are extra special with rhinestones, pearls, stamping, tons of ribbon, and sweet messages.  This isn't posting until today, because I won't have worked with Kathleen until then - we're on a rotating schedule during the month of August.  I cannot wait to give her her gum wrappers.  I hope she likes them

Mega Gift Card Holder!!!

There are about a dozen of us that work together at my client.  I've grown really close to the gang.  I will miss them when my project is over.  Every year they give our supervisor an assortment of gift cards.  Last year they hung them on a small tree.  This year they wanted to frame them.  I was SO excited!  I quickly volunteered to decorate each of the 4x6 spots.  I had just finished my Merry Moments Frame back in December.  Everyone who saw it LOVED it. Did you miss it?  Here's a link to view the post.  No worries, if you want to make your own, all of the supplies are still available for purchase.

Not everyone in our group celebrates Christmas, so I had to keep the gift card holder generic.  I think I used every snowflake and snowman on my shelves!  Here are all of the supplies I used to make the frame:

• Simple Snowflake Stamp
• Merriment Stamp
• Merry & Bright Stamp Set (retired)
• Warm Words Stamp Set
• Four The Holidays (2009 Holiday Mini)
• Two Cool Dudes Stamp Set
• Holiday Lineup Stamp Set
• Serene Snowflaks Stamp Set (2009 Holiday Mini)
• Christmas Punch Hostess Stamp Set
• Bashful Blue Classic Ink
• Night of Navy Classic Ink
• Silver Encore Ink
• Bashful Blue Card Stock
• Night of Navy Card Stock
• Shimmery White Card Stock
• Silver Card Stock
• Big Shot
• #2 Snowflake Die
• Snowflake #9 Sizzlit
• Big Shot
• Night of Navy Narrow Grosgrain Ribbon
• Bashful Blue Narrow Grosgrain Ribbon
• Whisper White Satin Ribbon
• Bashful Blue Satin Ribbon (OccMini)
• Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon
• Small Tag Punch
• Tag Punch
• 1 1/4" Circle Punch
• 1 3/8" Circle Punch
• Scallop Circle Punch
• Large Oval Punch
• Scallop Oval Punch
• Boho Blossoms Punch
• 1/16" Circle Punch
• Snowflake Punch
• Self-Adhesive Rhinestones - Eggcellent Eggs Kit (OccMini)
• Ice Circle Rhinestone Brads

Merry Moments Frame

Each year Stampin' Up! selects a handful of demonstrators to win an Artisan Award.  Any demonstrator can enter.  But, only a few are chosen out of hundreds who submit fantastic cards, scrapbook pages, and 3D projects. 

Throughout the year, the Artisan Award winners create projects to inspire us.  I'm always amazed at what they come up with.  Just recently some new projects were posted for demonstrators.  One immediately caught my eye.  It was a framed home decor item made by Fran Sabad.  I immediately set out looking for a similar frame so that I could recreate it.  I failed miserably at locating her exact frame, but I think I like the one I found even better!  Fran's frame had seven openings.  Mine had eight.  I was very uncreative and copied (or at least tried to) her rectangles exactly as she created.  I only had to create one.  No, I won't tell you which one - but it's definitely my least favorite of the eight!  I cannot wait to display this in my home this holiday season!

The majority of the components are from the Christmas Jingle Simply Scrappin' Kit and the Merry Moments DSP.  Other accessories used were:

• Real Red Wide Grosgrain Ribbon
• Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon
• #2 Snowflake Die
• Big Shot
• 1 1/4" Square Punch
• Dimensionals
• Scallop Edge Punch
• Vanilla Hodgepodge Hardware

Now, since I CASEd most of this project, it came together quickly.  Would you believe that I made it in under an hour!  My husband couldn't believe it when I carried it out of my classroom this evening.  The hardest part might have been prying open all of those little metal things that hold the glass in place.  By the way, I removed the glass since I used ribbon and hardware.  Besides, I broke one of the panes taking it out of the frame!!!  But, what I love is that I can easily change out the pictures in the frame throughout the year.

Holiday Decor and Gift Giving

Hello.  Remember me?  I've been SO busy!  It's good busy!  It's great!  I've got so many events on my calendar that it's hard to keep track!  Some of you have even booked your workshops out through February!!!  And, that's a great idea!  I saw the Sale-a-Bration and Occasions Mini brochures yesterday - trust me - you will want to host a workshop in January, February, or March!  I can't share any details yet, but I can say that Stampin' Up! never ceases to amaze me.  And, the upcoming Occasions Mini is definitely no different!

Anyway...did you know that there's a Holiday Gift Extravaganza promotion going on?  Yes!  When you purchase $50 in products from the Holiday Gift Guide, you can get a free Decor Element of $16.95 or less.  And, there's no limit!  I thought I'd show you some of the projects I've recently made using Decor Elements.

First up is a shadow box.  It's inspired from one I saw somewhere.  I honestly can't remember where.  I actually scoured through my Google Reader and SU publications looking for it when I sat down to make it because I couldn't remember exactly what I'd seen.  So, here's what I did!  I went to my local craft store and picked up some jingle bells and a shadow box.  The frame is 10" x 10".  I lined the back with some of our Merry Moments DSP.  I filled the box with some jingle bells.  I then applied the "Jingle All The Way" (small) in Real Red directly on the glass.  This guy is only $3.95!!!   Then I wrapped some Old Olive Striped Ribbon around the entire frame.  I've gotten lots of compliments on this box wherever I take it.  And the best part - you can change it out with each season!  I'm going to have so much fun!

Next I took some leftover Decor Elements from the Holiday Mix collection found in the Holiday Mini.  I had these leftover from the Blocks I made back in September.  I picked up a jar at a local store where you buy storage stuff.  They were not too pricey - maybe around $3-$4.  I think they make the perfect gift filled with homemade candy.  We'll see if I actually get around to filling the jar this season!  Again, I also wrapped around some Old Olive Ribbon.  I've gotten lots of positive feedback about this one as well!

Finally, inspired by a photo in the Holiday Mini Catalog, I made another framed decor item.  Again, using the leftover Holiday Mix Decor Elements and some Christmas Cocoa Specialty DSP out of the Holiday Mini, I made this frame in no time!  The hardest part is always cleaning the glass first!  I finished it off with some stitched Real Red Ribbon.

Want to purchase any or all of these items now???  Simply click HERE!

 

Thoroughly Modern Build-a-Bear Office Accessories

The next set of items I'd like to share from my Fall Fest Build-a-Bear display is my "Thoroughly Modern Build-a-Bear Office Accessory Collection".  Wow, that's a mouthful!

The first piece in the collection that I made was the folder.  This was something that was shown in the Stampin' Success Magazine - it's a magazine that demonstrators receive each month.  It's packed full of ideas!  Then, I saw it again on Patty Bennett's blog - including instructions.  The folder is actually made out of the Thoroughly Modern File Folders on page 169 of the Idea Book and Catalog.  After you get over your fear of cutting into the folder, it's easy to make!  But, you shouldn't have much fear - they come as a pack of 12....plenty of backups!  I also picked up some small notepads at the local office supply store and adhered it in the folder with sticky strip.  Using some of the leftover scraps, I was even able to decorate the notepad!  I decorated my folder with a coordinating Build-a-Bear!

The folder then inspired the bulletin board.  It actually happened completely by accident.  This one is another 2am creation.  And, I'm pretty proud of myself!  I had some 12x12 cork sitting around from a recent trip to my drug store.  YES!  I found 12x12 sheets of cork at a drug store.  The 12x12 frame was an old frame that had been collecting dust.  I popped out the glass and it worked perfectly!  I adhered some Throughly Modern DSP to the wooden frame using Tombo Anywhere Adhesive - it worked GREAT!  I cut out some bear paws for the corner using my Embosslit!  Finally, I made a bear that matched my folder's bear and used Glue Dots to attach her to the board.  I then cut out the "notes" word from Bermuda Bay Card Stock and adhered them as well with Glue Dots.

To round out the collection, I emptied a can of soup...right down the drain...washed out the can, and wrapped some more DSP around the can, some coordinating ribbon, and a little stamped embellishment.

I thought this collection looked a little more grown-up!  What do you think?  Here are some close-ups of the projects:

Build-a-Bear Fest!

Get ready for a Build-a-Bear fest!  Today I'm demonstrating the Build-a-Bear products to a group of about 120 demonstrators at our Fall Fest event!  It's a fabulous event where demonstrators from all over the Northeast...and then some...get together to stamp, swap, share, inspire, create, and chat!  It's SO much fun.  At today's event, we're lucky enough to have TWO fabulous demonstrators from Ohio demonstrate and teach us some stamping techniques - Karen Barber (my "grandma" in the SU family) and Michelle Zindorf (one of my "aunts" in the SU family) - both stamping "royalty"!

I thought I'd give you a sneak peek of one of the projects I've made to display.  It was inspired by a project shown at convention.  It's a dress-up bear game.  I've cut lots of clothes and accessories out of DSP and magnet sheets.  It's SO simple to make magnets with your Big Shot.  I found self-adhesive sheets online.  I just cut the DSP and the magnet sheet to the size I needed, adhered the DSP to the magnet, then ran it through the Big Shot! I placed a circular magnet to the back of a couple of SU containers.  One is for boys clothes.  One is for girls clothes.  It keeps them all nice and organized.

(Side note....I made this project at 1am on Friday morning.  When decorating the tin I was very focused on choosing colors that coordinated with the teal tin.  Apparently I forgot the tin was teal when I dressed my bear!  What was I thinking???  Olive Sweater???  Oh gosh!  It's still cute, though!

I used an empty Hodgepodge Hardware box as the case (thanks, Tina, for the idea).  It's the perfect travel-size companion!  I decorated the box - and turned it into a purse (inspired by a convention project from a few years back).  I think the result is absolutely adorable.

I'll be sharing more of the projects over the next few days.  But, let me tell you....these little guys are ADDICTIVE!!!  I couldn't stop cutting out little bears - trying to find new ways to use their accessories.  

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.

Noel Decor Blocks

Did you see the new Decor Blocks on page 30 of the new Holiday Mini Catalog???  They were some of the first things on my wish list!  I couldn't wait to decorate them.  The Holiday Mix Decor Elements are designed to fit perfectly on the blocks.  My first project using these new items was to simply copy the blocks right from the catalog.  It was pretty simple....but not really cost effective.  In fact, you need three different colors of the Decor Elements to make it.  But, that didn't matter to me!  I liked it and wanted to make it!  However, you could certainly eliminate some of the supplies....I left out the rub-ons and the stamped element on the "L" block.

Here are the supplies I used:

• Decor Elements Blocks
• Holiday Mix Chocolate Decor Elements
• Holiday Mix Real Red Decor Elements
• Holiday Mix White Decor Elements
• Anywhere Glue Stick
• Hobby Blade
• Whisper White Card Stock
• Old Olive Card Stock
• Chocolate Chip Card Stock
• Old Olive DSP
• Snowfall Printed Window Sheets
• Medium Rhinestone Brad
• Scallop Edge Punch

Convention Gifts - Part 2

Good afternoon!  I know, I'm spoiling you with all of these posts!  But I have SO much to share this week.  This project is the gift I gave to my SAM yesterday.  What's a SAM?  It's a person at Stampin' Up! that helps to answer my questions, coaches me on my business, and is there for whatever I need.  I was assigned a SAM because I earned the incentive trip to the Southern Caribbean.  Personally, I think my SAM is more valuable that the free cruise.  You think I'm nuts, don't you?  Well, I'm not alone - once you've had that level of support, you never want to lose it!

SO...to show my appreciation, I made up a little gift for my SAM.  Using an empty Pretties Kit box, I decorated it with some Cottage Wall DSP and coordinating Rich Razzleberry ribbon.  I filled it with all kinds of things I thought she might need while "working" at convention - chocolate, chocolate, tissues, chocolate...you get the idea.  I cannot wait to se my SAM this year.  I talk to her every week, but only get the chance to see her once - maybe twice - if she's lucky enough to attend Leadership.  I'll post a picture of the two of us over on the convention section of my blog.

Convention Gifts

It's a tradition at convention to give your roommate a gift.  This year my roommate is my husband.  But, one of the other demonstrators in the Philly Inkers group is attending with me this year.  This is her first convention but she doesn't have a roommate.  SO, I couldn't let her miss out on this little tradition!  Inspired by the gift my Leadership Roommate gave me, I covered a composition book with some Thoroughly Modern DSP.  I also stamped some images from the Define Your Life and Eastern Blooms stamp sets in coordinating colors.  Can you read the definition I chose?  It's "Inspire - To cause or create new ideas.  Fresh thought; to influence.  To motivate one to action."  She can use this little book to capture all of the inspirational ideas she hears this week!  The theme for convention this year is "Inspire Create Share".  PERFECT!

Want to read about our convention adventures?  Click on the following convention logo!

Candy Jar

Mike loves pickles.  He finished off a pickle jar this week on the same day that I decided I wanted a candy jar for my desk at work.  So, I decided to alter his empty jar.  I loved it because it had ridges.  The only problem?  It's about 14 inches around.  Stampin' Up! paper is only 12 inches wide, right?  Ah ha!  No problem!  If you turn the paper so that it's a diamond, you can actually create a 3x14 inch strip!  You waste a ton of paper - or create really big triangular scraps, but it works!  I have an 18" cutter, so cutting the paper isn't a problem. 

I had some extra supplies sitting around from last week's stamp club, so I decided to go with Basic Gray, Walk in the Park DSP, Baja Breeze Ribbon, then cut some letters out of Basic Gray Card Stock using my Sizzix Big Shot and Go-Go Boots Alphabet.  Very simple, quick, and will look lovely filled with chocolate!

Summer Love Tin Kit

I'm not usually a fan of rub-ons, but I do LOVE the Summer Love Rub-Ons in the Mini Catalog.  I've put together a special kit just for you that features them!  The kit includes enough supplies to make TWO gifts!  Keep one and give one away!

Your kit will include:

• 1 Package Summer Love Rub-Ons (contains 2 sheets)
• 2 Silver Skinny Tins
• 8 Note Cards with Envelopes
• 2 Yards Regal Rose Wide Grosgrain Ribbon
• 1 Yard Kiwi Kiss Satin Ribbon
• Color Instruction Sheet including photos of sample designs

Kit Cost:  $30 (includes Priority Mail Shipping to addresses in the US)

Order your kit by Wednesday, May 6.  I will be mailing kits on Friday, May 15th.

UPDATE:  I've just learned that the Summer Love Rub-Ons are on backorder as of April 21st.  Therefore, I cannot order the supplies for this kit.  As soon as I have an update, I will re-offer this as a kit.

 

Good Friend Swaps and Box

I've been enjoying a relaxing Sunday afternoon.  I've gotten all kinds of stamping done so far!  So, check back this week - I promise to be posting several times throughout the week.  First I wanted to share my swaps for Monday's downline meeting with you.

The challenge for myself for this card was to use a brand new stamp set.  That was tricky - most of my stamp sets aren't arriving until this Friday - I was holding my orders to cash in on Sale-a-Bration!  The rest of my stamp sets are wedding-themed.  But, this guy was the set I received for free at Leadership! 

I attended a stamping class last Thursday for demonstrators only.  We made several cute cards and projects.  One of the projects, a 3D project, featured the Good Friend Stamp Set, Good Morning Sunshine Paper, and the So Tweet Chipboard.  They all coordinate nicely.  We made this adorable box as one of the projects.  It was sitting on my table as I was designing my swap cards.  So, it was my inspiration for this card!

So, onto the card.  I used Pacific Point Classic Ink, Summer Sun Classic Ink, and Chocolate Chip Classic Ink.  I stamped the images on Whisper White Card Stock layered on Summer Sun and Pacific Point.  I used my Stamp-a-Ma-Jig to make sure the images lined up perfectly!  I then tied Pacific Point and Chocolate Chip Ribbon.  Both Mike and his daughter, Jessica, thought it was a cute card!  I hope the Philly Inkers like it too when I swap with them Monday night.

Tree Picture

One of my Stamp Clubs requested to make the beautiful framed project in the Holiday Mini Catalog using the Season of Friendship Stamp Set.  It's gorgeous - and is appropriate for any time of year...not just fall or winter.  This is my version of the project.

Here are the ingredients I used:

• Season of Friendship Stamp
• Kraft Card Stock
• Whisper White Card Stock
• Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
• Sage Shadow Classic Ink
• Riding Hood Red Classic Ink
• Really Rust Classic Ink
• More Mustard Classic Ink
• 3/4 Inch Circle Punch
• 1/16 Inch Circle Punch
• Earth Elements Brads
• Two-Way Glue Pen
• Dazzling Diamonds Glitter
• Paper Snips
• Dimensionals

Where did I get the fun shadowbox frame?  That was the hard part!  Do you know how hard it is to find a shadowbox frame with 3 4x6 openings???  It wasn't easy - or I was just looking in the wrong place.  I found this VERY nice frame at Crate & Barrel - one of my favoritest stores!  Oh, and yes, those vases sitting next to the frame are also from the same store.  And, yes, you might also find one of my gift registries there!!!  Like how I threw that in there???

Parisian Summer

So...as with most of my projects lately...I went shopping at lunch the other day and found this fabulous shadow box frame at Crate & Barrel.  It wasn't cheap.  But, I love the depth.  I knew immediately that I wanted some sort of Decor Element on the glass with a scrapbook page and embellishments inside.  So, I ran home and got to work.

I figured I would just make a page of Mike and I and use the word "Love".  But, you know what?  I think I've exausted my collection of photos with Mike and I together.  Brooke and Ed's wedding pictures were still fresh in my mind from the chipboard project the other day.  What a perfect subject - and such fabulous photos.

I actually made this after yesterday's card - you know, the swirly triangle?  Okay, I'll stop being so hard on myself.  Everyone who saw it at the Bella Rose Booklet Class last night loved it.  Anyway, I'm off-topic again.  I still had the pink and gray color combo goin' on in my head.  I was determined to make it work.  If only Stampin' Up! had a collection of paper with pink and gray.  You know what?  They do - and I had it on hand.  Parisian Summer DSP is absolutely gorgeous!!!  It has gray and pink and burgundy in it.  Well, now that I look at the catalog, I guess it's really Sahara Sand - but I just used the Pink Pirouette floral paper for the background.  The Bravo Burgundy was also appropriate because it was their wedding color!  HELLO!?!  It was meant to be.  Oh, and did I mention that the raw vinyl comes in dark gray???  PERFECT!

The "Love" phrase is one of the new Stampin' Up! Exclusive Decorative Strip Dies - Join in the Cheer.  I simply cut out some of my dark gray vinyl the size of the word "Love", laid it on my die, and ran it through my Big Shot!  I was thrilled to see how beautifully the thinner dies cut through the vinyl!  The tricky part was making the "L" in "Love" look right.  I had to hand-trim the left side with my paper snips.  Could you tell?  I think I did a pretty good job.

I then simply layered some Parisian Summer DSP, Bravo Burgundy Card Stock, Very Vanilla Card Stock, and Brushed Silver Card Stock.  I added some of the fabulous wide Pink Pirouette Ribbon and a hat pin from the pretties kit and viola - a gorgeous framed page!

Since I'm on the topic of the raw vinyl, I wanted to answer Sue's question about the Snowflake Jar question the other day.   She asked:

"So the candy jars with the vinyl are pretty cute & you said you can peel them off to make them seasonal. But can you stick them permanently? "

I've been thinking about this one...the beauty of the decor elements and the raw vinyl is that they aren't permanent.  You can apply them to walls or other objects, and they'll peel off without harming most surfaces.  Because the snowflake is a Sizzix Die, you could make the snowflake out of other material that would be permanent.  What that material would be?  I guess I'll just have to do some experimenting.  But, what I can tell you is that the raw vinyl is pretty durable - is that the word I want?  If you're familiar with rub-ons, you really shouldn't get them wet.  They peel off easily.  The Decor Elements vinyl is different.  I just experimented with my cookie jar.  I ran it under water, scrubbed it with a wash cloth, and then not-so-gently dried it off with a towel.    You can't even tell!!!  Now, I don't think I'd go running it through a dishwasher.  But, it's tough enough to withstand some not-so-gentle cleaning/scrubbing.

Okay...I really babbled on and on there.  If you stuck it out this long - thanks!!!

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???

Sizzix + Raw Vinyl = Custom Decor!

Oh WOW!!!  I just received my final new catalog order last night.  Well, at least the last of the orders I placed on August 11th - the day the catalog was unveiled.  It contained some additional Sizzix dies.  Ever since I saw the Sizzix and heard that we could purchase sheets of uncut vinyl, I saw tons of possibilities!!!  I picked up this jar on my lunch break yesterday and in less than five minutes, made this adorable gift packaging for some tasty Christmas Cookies!!  I tied some Baja Breeze Ribbon and made a coordinating tag.

Don't want to give this as a gift?  No problem!  You can now decorate your kitchen canisters with various designs to coordinate with all of the holidays!  The vinyl peels off very easily!!!

My Die Cut Divas will have fun making fun projects like this one!

Bella Rose Pocket Booklet Class - Last Chance!

What a fabulous gift these Pocket Booklets make!!!  In this class you will make your own Pocket Boolet featuring Stampin' Up!'s new Bella Rose Designer Series Paper.  I fell in love with this collection of patterned paper instantly.  It coordinates perfectly with the 2008/2009 In-Colors:  Pink Pirouette, Riding Hood Red, and Kiwi Kiss.

The booklets measures 5x5 and contains pockets, envelopes, pull-out tabs, and pages where you can capture your memories from a trip, of a family member, or any other occassion.  Personally, I made several of these to give to my convention buddies, Kerin and Donna, so that we could have a place to record our convention adventures together.

Class Details:

I'm offering this class as both an in-person or long distance package.  So the choice is yours!  I'm now offering three sessions of the in-person class since the first date sold out in a week!!!  There is still plenty of room in both September classes!!!

In Person Option

Date/Time: 

Thursday, August 28th - 6:30pm - 9:00pm - Registration Closed

Friday, September 5th - 6:30pm - 9:00pm - Registration Closed

Materials Fee:  $20 (includes adhesive)

Long Distance Option

Your kit will include a step-by-step instruction sheet and pre-cut/pre-punched supplies.  You will only need to supply your own adhesive (Sticky Strip and Snail are recommended).  You can certainly modify and personalize your Pocket Booklet with additional stamped images or embellishments as you'd like!  The stamped sentiment on the front cover is from the Celebrate Everything Stamp Set in Riding Hood Red Classic Ink.  I also added some doodling with a White Gel Pen - also optional.

Cost of the Long Distance option is $20 plus $5 shipping for a total of $25.  Use the PayPal link below to order your kit today!  Registration is now closed.

Note Shipping Times:

I will be shipping the all long distance kits ordered on or before Sunday, August 17th via Priority Mail on or around August 29th.

I will continue to collect orders through Friday, August 22nd.  Any orders received between Monday, August 18th and Friday, August 22nd will ship on or around September 4th.

I can ship to any United States address.   You will be notified via e-mail once your kit ships.

Ribbon Rehab Gifts

I had fun at both Ribbon Rehab classes this past weekend.  I look forward to seeing some of the projects the class attendees make using some of the fun techniques they learned.  We sewed some ribbon, adorned ribbon with charms, bound a book with ribbon, and a few other fun ideas. 

On Saturday, Elaine brought me some adorable Valentine's Day gifts.  Her specialty is definitely 3D projects.  She makes the most adorable bags, boxes, and totes.  Everyone loves receiving her very detailed projects.  Many of her co-workers now recruit her to help with favors and gifts.  She's now experimenting with tins.  This adorable tin is filled with chocolate nuggets that she wrapped in patterened paper.  She decorated the tin by creating a band out of several patterned papers, some wide grosgrain ribbon, and an adorable Valentine's Day tag.  How cute is that?

Her second gift was a cute treat bag filled with conversation hearts.  She simply folded a piece of cardstock and slid clear bag filled with hearts inside.  What a cute gift and how simple!  She used the same stamp set to decorate this bag.   

Inspiration is Everywhere

I was so excited when I went to my mailbox on Friday!  I received Williams Sonoma's Easter catalog.  If you know me, you know I love Williams Sonoma but that's not why I was excited.  I was excited about what was on the cover.  I guess they were advertising some sort of Easter egg decorating kit, but all I saw were felt flowers, ribbon originals, and cosmo glitter!!!  So, I hopped in my car and headed to Michael's to get some wooden eggs.  They're really cheap - 79 cents each.  The best part, I can enjoy my eggs year after year.  The kit in the catalog was for actual eggs that you'd eat.

First I painted my eggs with some acrylic paint.  I recommend being patient and letting it dry completely before attempting to apply glitter.  If you know me, you also know that I'm not patient.  Anyway, after the eggs dry, I used various adhesives to apply my cosmo glitter to the eggs:  Sticky Strip, Glue Dots, and then I punched some Boho Blossoms out of the scraps from the Sticky Cut Letters!  I also used some of our Ribbon Originals, Felt Flowers, and Pretties Kit to embellish my eggs.  How cute are they???

More Valentine's Day

Is it possible that I've posted more about Valentine's Day than Christmas?  I'm starting to feel like it.  But, I wanted to share with you some things I've made, some things I've altered, and some things I've received this week.  I had a very fun workshop last night at Kim's house.  She requested lots of pink and brown items.  We made a glittery card, an adorable tote box, and the scrapbook page over there on the right!  By the way, let me introduce you to Mike!  Here's a picture of us from a recent trip to the Northern Virginia Wine Country.  I printed the picture in Sepia - that and black & white are the answer to scrapbooking pictures that don't exactly coordinate with the supplies you're using!

Anyway, to make this scrapbook page I used Close to Cocoa CS, Purely Pomegranate CS, Pretty in Pink CS, Whisper White CS, Berry Bliss DSP, the new Boho Blossom Punch, 5-Petal Flower Punch, Slit Punch, Pretties Kit, and Purely Pomegranate Double-Stitched Ribbon.  The frame is a 9x9 frame, so I mounted the finished 6x6 page on Chocolate Chip CS.

Next, I came home tonight to lots of mail and a stack of goodies on my kitchen counter.  My mom runs errands on Tuesdays and drops off mail.  Tuesdays are also women's Bible study.  They love to exchange little gifts around holidays.  I can't attend any longer because of the hour I head to work, but many of the women still think of me!  One of the gifts was a cute, red glass votive holder (filled with home-baked cookies and chocolate).  As soon as I saw it, I thought about RUB-ONs!  So, while enjoying the goodies inside, I rubbed on some of the fabulous Sale-a-Bration Rub-Ons.  These are great, because they come in four colors - white, black, chocolate chip, and old olive.  Anyway, how cute is this little thing!  What a great gift or decoration.

Finally, getting the mail is my favorite part of the day.  This week has been absolutely fabulous.  I thought I'd share some of the Valentine's Day Cards I've received!  The first is from Claire.  The second is from Patty.  And, the third is from Janis.  I love them all!!!

Ribbon Rehab

Wow, what a fun weekend!  I went up to Northern New Jersey with Claire and Tiffany to our quarterly demonstrator event.  There were about 65 women in attendance.  We got TONS of inspiration, watched some fabulous demonstrations, and made some very cool projects.  I took a few pictures and posted them in an album called Winter Gathering.  Check it out for a sampling of some of the fun ideas we saw.

I also wanted to remind you that there is still room in my upcoming Ribbon Rehab class.  I just finished designing the fun projects you'll get to make for $15!  You'll get to play with some brand new poly twill ribbon that won't be available for a few more weeks!  You'll get to play with the new ribbon charms.  You'll alter a tin which holds a small album.  Plus, you'll make a couple of cards that are embellished with ribbon!  Space is limited, so sign up today by registering online for free!

February Scrapbook Kit Reminder

I just wanted to remind you that tomorrow is the deadline to order February's Scrapbook Kit!  So far I've gotten lots of positive response from people about the kits.  You can sign up for one month, three months, or a full six-month subscription!  February's Kit features Berry Bliss.  And, if scrapbooking isn't your thing, you can use the supplies to make cards and other projects!  Check out some of the projects I've made using Berry Bliss that you can make with the supplies in the kit!  The kits will be assembled and ready to be picked up (or shipped) on Thursday, February 21st.  Click here for additional information.

Contact me today to sign up!!!

Valentine's Gift Packaging

Can you tell that I'm absolutely in LOVE with our Berry Bliss Designer Series paper?  Have you seen a theme?  It's the Scrapbooking Kit of the month, I used it on my Valentine's Day Mailbox, I have created a few scrapbook pages using it.  Now, I've altered a paint can using it. 

A new store opened up in Cherry Hill, NJ around Christmas.  I have forced myself to stay away for a couple of months now because I knew it would be dangerous.  But, while searching for supplies for my Anything But a Card class, I found the perfect item to alter at The Container Store.  OH MY GOSH!  If you love to organize, this is the store for you.  I used to be in love with a store called Organized Living, but they went out of business a few years back.  I may have found heaven at The Container Store.  I'm proud to say that I controlled myself.  I picked up the paint can, a fabulous stainless steel recipe box (no, it's not the one we're altering in the ABC class), and a few other things that will be returned because they won't work. 

So, with alterable items in hand, I went to work this morning altering my paint can.  I think it could be the perfect packaging for some Valentine's Day candy my boyfriend (he loves white chocolate covered pretzels) may receive (if I can force myself to give it away).  It was tricky, the can was 13.5 inches around.  Our DSP is only 12x12.  However, if you cut it on an angle, from diagonal to diagonal, you waste a lot of paper, but get more than enough to go around.  I managed to use one sheet of DSP and one sheet of 12x12 Pretty in Pink Cardstock on this one.

I then decorated the can with lots of ribbon - you know how I like my ribbon - and lots of punches, hodgepodge hardware, and build-a-brad.  (You can click on the picture to view a larger image.)  How did I make that cute little paper clip?  Well, it's a fun technique we learned at convention last year.  First, you punch out some DSP or other image using your 3/4 inch circle punch.  I chose the small coordinating flower from the DSP I used on the can.  It was the perfect size.  You then glue it to the base of the brad and then put a clear apoxy circle sticker over the image.  Your paper is then "sandwiched" between the clear apoxy and the brad.  Next, you pull out your Hodge Podge hardware and find the football-shaped paper clip.  Then, using the pliers in your crafters toolkit, you bend the prongs on the brad around the top of the paper clip!  You can then trim any prongs that may be sticking out.  How cute is that?  I also tied some ribbon to it.  Here are all of the supplies I used to make the can:

• Paint Can (The Container Store - $3.49)
• Sealed with a Kiss Stamp Set
• Berry Bliss Designer Series Paper
• Pretty in Pink 12x12 Cardstock
• Whisper White Cardstock scraps
• Close to Cocoa Cardstock scraps
• Purely Pomegranate Cardstock scraps
• Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
• Purely Pomegranate Classic Ink
• Pretty in Pink Classic Ink
• Blender Pens
• Chocolate Chip Wide Grosgrain Ribbon
• Pretty in Pink Narrow Grosgrain Ribbon
• Whisper White Narrow Grosgrain Ribbon
• Photo Corner Punch
• 1 1/4" Square Punch
• 1 3/8" Square Punch
• Scallop Circle Punch
• 1 1/4" Circle Punch
• 1 3/8" Circle Punch
• 3/4" Circle Punch
• Build-a-Brad
• Pewter HodgePodge Hardware
• Coluzzle

Valentine's Mailbox

Everyone seems to have found the cute little mailboxes at Target's Dollar Spot.  Just check out Splitcoast and you'll see dozens of samples.  And, you probably know how much I love altering tins.  So I just had to run out to my local Target to pick up a batch.  Since I just received my first shipment from the new catalog this week, I had to use the new Berry Bliss Designer Series Paper to decorate mine.  And, I just couldn't help myself....I used some retired ribbon.  I fell in love with the flirty ribbon from the 2007 Winter Mini Catalog and saved close to 10 yards of each selection.  And, it coordinates perfectly!!!  Claire came over Friday night and she gave me her permission to incorporate some of this gorgeous ribbon.  Want some?  It's part of my yard sale!  Finally, I stamped the mailbox flag and the love notes using the Sealed With a Kiss stamp set - one my new favorite sets.