Stampin' with Kristin

Stamper's Dozen Blog Hop - A Spooktacular Halloween Tree!

Thanks for stopping by my blog today!  Did you come from Jodi's or BJ's blogs on today's Blog Hop?  Then you probably know we're sharing some Halloween-themed projects.  My project for the hop has been one I've been planning to make for over a month.  I'd found this glittery tree in my basement while cleaning out over the summer.  I'd purchased it a couple of years ago when I made a similar Halloween tree.  I simply swapped out some of the ornaments wth current product for this season!

Here are the supplies I used for the ornaments:
- Freaky Friends Stamp Set
- Good Greetings Stamp Set
- Motley Monsters Designer Series Paper
- Memento Ink
- Bermuda Bay and Tangerine Tango Classic Ink
- Blendabilities
- Simply Scored
- 1-1/4", 1-3/8", 1-3/4" and 2" Circle Punches
- 1-3/4" and 2-3/8" Scallop Circle Punches
- Linen Thread
- Crushed Curry, Whisper White, Tangerine Tango, Bermuda Bay, and Basic Black Card Stock

Get the Good Greetings Stamp Set absolutely free!  Simply contact me at 856-503-7459 or kristinkortonick@yahoo.com to host an online party, in-person workshop/class, or simply place a $300 order before October 31, 2014! 

Click here to start shopping!

* Hostesses receive the free Good Greetings stamp set absolutely free when their party orders reach $300.

I hope you are enjoying today's hop and continue through the rest of the posts!  Click here to move ahead to BJ's blog or click here to go back to Jodi's.

  

Twelve Weeks of Halloween - Week 6

We're halfway through my Twelve Weeks of Halloween already!  Can you believe it?  Today I wanted to share a card with you.  I had lots of fun coloring this scene using my Blendabilities.  It's certainly not a quick and simple card, that's for sure!  But, that's okay!  I don't send many (or any) Halloween cards.  It's not like Christmas!

The houses are stamped using the Holiday Home Photopolymer Stamp Set then they're cut using the Homemade Holiday Framelits. And, when you purchase them together, you can save 15%!!  I love this set because it's so flexible!  You can make Halloween, Thank You, Housewarming, Christmas, and more using this set!  There's a snoman, bats, cobwebs, a couple of trees, santa, leaves, snowflakes, and more!

Holiday Home & Homemade Holiday Framelits
Holiday Home & Homemade Holiday Framelits Bundle - Item 137631 / Price $31.95
Holiday Home Photopolymer Stamp Set - Item 135095 / Price $15.95
Homemade Holiday Framelits - Item 135857 / Price $21.95

Twelve Weeks of Halloween - Week 5

I'm so in love with these little guys!  If you're on Pinterest, most likely you've seem some of them!  They're made using the new Curvy Keepsakes Die in the Holiday Catalog.  I think the'd make perfect little boxes for giving away Halloween treats.  I wish I could take credit for them, but I found them on Pinterest, just like you may have!

These boxes are super simple to put together.  You simply cut out two of the box pieces and adhere the bottoms on top of one another.  I use Sticky Strip.  Then you decorate!  Check back tomorrow for some Christmas/Winter-themed Curvy Keepsake Boxes!

Curvy Keepsake Box Thinlits Dies:
Item Number - 135853
Price - $32.95
Order Now

 

Here are the supplies I used to make each:

Witch (inspired by Lynn Starzl):
- Old Olive, Basic Black, and Whisper White Card Stock
- Burlap Ribbon
- Owl Punch (eyes)
- 1/2" Circle Punch (nose)
- Project Life Pens (sketching)
- 2-1/2" Circle Punch
- Tree Punch
- Paper Trimmer

Mummy (inspired by Terri Ransom):
- Sahara Sand, Whisper White, and Basic Black Card Stock
- White Gel Pen
- Project Life Pens
- Sahara Sand Ink
- Sponge
- White & Tangerine Tango Two-Tone Trim

Pumpkin (inspired by several):
- Pumpkin Pie Card Stock
- Work of Art Stamp Set
- Pumpkin Pie Ink
- Mossy Meadow Ribbon
- Linen Thread
- Autumn Wooden Elements

Gift Card Envelope

If you haven't noticed, this year's Holiday Catalog is packed full of gift packaging ideas including boxes, bags, tags, and even a Gift Card Envelope Die!  Today's project features the new Gift Card Envelope & Trims Thinlits Dies. 

The folded size of the envelope is 4" x 2-3/4" - perfect for those credit card-sized gift cards.  These would be perfect to embellish and give away to your mail delivery person, your favorite man/woman in brown, a teacher....or imagine making these and tucking a tip for your server at a restaurant!  Hmmm....I might have to do that.  I eat out almost daily!

I decided to make a belly band for mine to keep it closed.  I embellished with some of the Color Me Autumn Designer Series Paper, Venetian Crochet Trim, and feathers made using the Four Feathers Stamp Set and coordinating Feathers Framelits Dies.  I adhered the belly band using the new stapler.  But, I didn't want boring silver staples!  I colored a row of staples using the darkest of the Crumb Cake Blendabilities.

Gift Card Envelope & Trims Thinlits Dies
Item 135854 / Price $32.95

Four Feathers Stamp Set & Feathers Framelits Dies
Wood Bundle Item - 137629 / Price $22.75
Clear Mount Bundle - 137630 / Price $20.25
Wood Four Feathers Stamp Set - 135050 / Price $13.95
Clear Mount Four Feathers Stamp Set - 135053 / Price $10.95
Feathers Framelits Dies - 135852 / Price $12.95

Color Me Autumn Designer Series Paper
Item 135820 / Price $10.95

Stamp Sorority August Swaps

I'm finally getting around to sharing (most) of last month's Stamp Sorority Swaps.  I say "most" because I'm missing part of one.  It must have fallen behind the table in the dining room.  I suggested everyone make a fall-themed card.  I love the variety we received!

I'm fairly certain that this first swap won our swap contest.  It's been a few days.  And, as usual, there are SO many fabulous swaps and the vote was close!  This first card was created by Darlene.  Her leaves are incredible.  I'm pretty sure they're watercolor paper.  And, you may not be able to see this in the photo, but the bottom of the acorn is heat embossed.

This next card was created by Patty Jo.  I love how she used the Wonderous Wreath stamp to make a fall wreath.  I've seen so many of these online.  I had joked at Diva Night a couple of weeks ago that I wondered how many would swap this idea and wouldn't it be fun if EVERYONE did.  But, we only got one and I love it!

This next card was created by April.  She just re-joined Stampin' Up! last month.  Using her limited supply of "current" products, she came up with this fun card.  I love the polka dot background!  I'm guessing she used a sponge dauber to create the background.

Next up is Hallie's swap.  I love how she framed her potted fall floral arrangement.  She used the retired ornament punch to make the vase and embellished with some washi tape.

This next card was created by Lynn.  She handcut the flower!  Crazy!  And I'm wondering if she scored the leaves to make the veins.  There's a ton of detail in Lynn's card.

These next two cards are unsigned so I'm going to guess at the creators.  Everyone who was in attendance swapped or presented a technique.  I'm going to guess that Jenn created this first card.  Jenn also just rejoined Stampin' Up! in July.  She'd been a demonstrator YEARS ago and I'm thrilled she decided to rejoin.  She used an assortment of stamps to create her card: Gorgeous Grunge, White Christmas, and For All Things.

So, by process of elimination, Jane designed this card.  I love how she made the flower really pop up from the card by curling up the edges of the flowers and gave it a great 3D effect!

Last but not least is the card I created for the swap.  I used the Merry Everything and the Grateful for Days stamp sets.  The colors were inspired by the Color Me Autumn Washi tape in the Holiday Catalog.

Fall Crepe Paper Flower Stick Wreath

I just realized that I don't think I shared this wreath on my blog!  It's kinda funny since the photo was edited and watermarked already!  I guess dinner was ready and I got distracted the night I intended to post it.

I designed this wreath for my Stamp Sorority Divas.  Each quarter, I recognize the demonstrators on my team for certain accomplishments.  They must meet at least one of three criteria to be invited.  It's based on their personal sales, recruiting, and personal promotions.  I give them dinner.  Usually I cook, but due to some time constraints, we've ordered from a local restaurant the last couple of quarters.  I hope next quarter I get back to cooking for them!  Then I come up with a project for them.  They've all pretty much unanimously agreed that they prefer one big project rather than a few cards featuring new products.  Each quarter it gets harder and harder to come up with something unique!  I was literally down to the wire when I designed this wreath.  I'd found the stick wreath at one of my local craft stores.  I then used our crepe filter paper, some Mossy Meadown card stock, and the Flower Frenzy Die to make the flowers and leaves.  I spritzed the flowers using a mix of rubbing alcohol and reinkers to die the flowers.  I used Tangelo Twist, Hello Honey, and Blackberry Bliss Reinkers.  For a little extra embellishment, I added some gold sequins and scraps of burlap ribbon around the flowers.  What do you think?  It was super easy to make!

Feeling Grateful

I've been wanting to make today's project for about a month now.  I believe it was Sara who shared a similar project on stage at convention last month.  I just knew I had to create it.  I'm just sad that I didn't get it made before my open house.  Hers was a framed project.  Mine is a card.

I used many of the images from the new Gratitude for Days stamp set that will be available on Thursday from the Holiday Catalog.  I stamped the images in Mossy Meadow, Crushed Curry, Cajun Craze, and Soft Suede.  I colored my leaves using my good ol' Blender Pens.  Remember those?  And, yes, a few of the leaves are cut out of scrap and adhered to the card to add a bit of dimension.  I embellished using some of the fabulous new Autumn Wooden Elements - also available on Thursday from the Holiday Catalog.  In addition to the little wooden leaves, I also added a few silver sequins from the Frosted Sequins pack - also available on Thursday from the Holiday Catalog.  What do you think?  I'm thinking I need to make a version that I can stick in a frame and enjoy year after year.

Twelve Weeks of Halloween - Week 3

I betcha thought I forgot to post this week's Twelve Weeks of Halloween project, didn't ya?  Well, you're sorta right!  I got caught up in finalizing my class projects for December last night.  Yes, you read that right, I'm designing projects for my classes in DECEMBER!  Anyway...I forgot to post this little treat bag.  I actually made it and photographed it last week but never got around to creating today's post.

I'm in love with these new treat bags from the Holiday Catalog.  They're called Petite Cafe Gift Bags.  They are just like the packages coffee comes in.  Granted, my coffee comes in little plastic cups these days.  But, they are poly-lined treat bags with "tin tie closure".  They would be great for food gifts.

I made the tag using the new Fall Fest Stamp Set and coordinating Fun Fall Framelits.  I stamped the ghost in Versamark and then heat embossed with White Embossing Powder on Black Cardstock.  The little treat tag comes from Ghoulish Greetings - all from the Holiday Catalog.  OH!  And how about that White & Tangering Tango Two-Tone Trim?  I LOVE this ribbon.  I also LOVE it as a pom-pom. 

Want to see more projects made from products in the Holiday Catalog?  Stop by my Holiday Catalog Open House TOMORROW, Saturday, August 23rd from 10am - 4pm. 

You'll be able to see all sorts of projects at my Open House including some that I've brought to life from the catalog:
- ALL of the gift boxes on page 4
- The Treat Bags on page 6
- The Joy Card on page 9
- The Curvy Keepsake Boxes on page 11
- The 25 Days Countdown Boxes on page 12
- One of the trees on page 20 (oh yes I did)
- The two cards and a tag from page 24
- The star card on page 25
- The Frightful Wreath on page 36
- The Watercolor Winter Cards on page 37
- The Gratitude for Days Cards and Pockets on page 3

In addition to those listed above, I have over 100 other card samples, home decor projects, and eight new classes for you to check out!

Twelve Weeks of Halloween - Week 2

I'm sharing this week's Twelve Weeks of Halloween project a day early this week since tomorrow is our blog hop.  Today's project features all sorts of Holiday Catalog sneak peeks. 

First, I created the box using the brand new Gift Box Punch Board which will be available later this month.  This punch board makes a variety of boxes in an assortment of sizes from 2"x2" up to 4"x4".  That may not sound like much, but they're not all square.  Some are tall and skinny.  Others are short and fat.  I'll have an impressive display of boxes all decked out for Christmas at my open house next weekend.  I guarantee they'll be there because the display is already complete!

I added a belly band around the box out of the new Motley Monsters Designer Series Paper then wrapped Basic Black Baker's Twine around the box five times.

The box topper is made from our crepe tissue paper.  I used every one of the circles in the pack, cut them with the Flower Frenzy Bigz Die. I spritzed them with a mixture of Bermuda Bay reinker and rubbing alcohol.

The tag was created with the new Merry Everything stamp set and Note Tag Punch (both bundled and available in the Holiday Catalog).  I stamped the image in Memento ink and colored dracula's face with the darkest of the Coastal Cabana Blendabilities.  Sure looks like Bermuda Bay, doesn't it?

Finally, I used some White & Tangerine Tango Two-Tone trim to tie the tag to the box.  I'm totally in love with this new "ribbon".  It's five times thicker than the regular Baker's Twine.  And, it also comes in Old Olive.

I think this little box would be a perfect "Boo Surprise" for a neighbor or friend filled with treats!

Sneak Peek - Fall Fest

I thought I'd share one of the cards I created last weekend!  I used the Fall Fest stamp set and coordinating Fun Fall Framelits that'll be available later this month in the Holiday Catalog. 

I'll admit, I wasn't immediately impressed with the images in this set.  They looked a bit too cartoony for me until this happy accident happened while working on some 12 Weeks of Halloween projects.  I was trying to make a tag which you'll see in another week or so and I made these two pumpkins.  I loved them - especially the Pear Pizzazz pumpkin.  However, they didn't look too Halloweeny to me.  I didn't want to throw them away - so they found a wonderful home on this card!

I very carefully inked up the pumpkins with the Tangerine Tango and Pear Pizzazz ink pads and then colored the stems with my Soft Suede marker.  The sentiment is from the For All Things stamp set - also debuting in the Holiday Catalog along with the Color Me Autumn Designer Series Paper.

Twelve Weeks of Halloween - Week 1

Did you know that there are only 12 weeks until Halloween?  I've never done a 12 Weeks of Halloween series before (I usually don't even think about early enough)!  But, I did this year!  I'll be honest....we'll see if I make it all 12 weeks!  I always have the best of intentions.  Can you relate?  I already have 2-1/2 projects complete so I'm off to a good start.

Today's project is a framed Halloween decoration.  You'll see these Halloween characters in a couple of different formats in this year's Holiday Catalog.  I've stamped them here using the Freaky Friends Stamp Set.  But, they're also the main characters in the coordinating Motley Monsters Designer Series Paper.  I've used that Designer Series Paper to cover my cheapo frame from Ikea.  It's just one of those basic 4x6 wood frames that come in a 3-pack.  I've taken the photo on an angle so you can see that I "stained" the edges of my frame using Bermuda Bay ink.

This year's Halloween DSP has a rather untraditional color-combo.  There is no Old Olive and Pumpkin Pie!  Nope!  This year's color combo is Basic Black, Bermuda Bay (WHAT?), Crushed Curry, Sahara Sand, Tangerine Tango, and Whisper White.  And, I've gotta admit, some of the lighter images sure look like Calypso Coral (HUH?).  But, you know what?  I'm digging the fresh color scheme.

So, I also have to admit...when I saw Freaky Friends, I didn't think "Blendabilities".  But, ya know what?  It's PERFECT for Blendabilities!  I used them on today's project to color in some of the white spaces and it TOTALLY WORKS!  Besides Freaky Friends, I also used the Epic Alphabet to stamp "boo!"

All of the black stamping was done using my Memento Ink.  I used the Calypso Coral, Daffodil Delight, Smoky Slate, and Coastal Cabana Blendabilities collections to add the color.

Simple Fall Thankful Card with Burlap and Wood

Are you ready for some Sneak Peeks from the Holiday Catalog? I can't wait to get home from work tonight and dig into the box of Holiday Catalog products that are due to arrive today.  Demonstrators were able to start purchasing products out of the Holiday Catalog on Friday.  However, customers won't be able to order from the catalog until the 28th of this month.  Impatient?  Want to get your hands on these products now?  Why not join Stampin' Up!?  You can get these items in your starter kit and start playing this month, too!

I'm so totally in love with today's card.  I had spotted this card over on Pinterest the other day.  It doesn't appear to use anything SU, but I knew I could recreate it using SU products.  And, oh my goodness, I did!

When I sat down to make the card, I really had no plan in mind other than to stamp a banner and layer it over some burlap ribbon - frayed on all four sides.  That's when I spotted two adorable wooden leaves leftover from a convention Make & Take that never got finished!

The stamped images (there are a couple) are from the upcoming Project Life Holiday Cheer stamp set from the Holiday Catalog.  I stamped the sentiment in Early Espresso on a scrap of Very Vanilla Card Stock and carefully colored the "so" using my Hello Honey Stampin' Write marker.  I also made a second banner out of Hello Honey scrap and stamped a "design" - for lack of a better word - in Hello Honey.

I adhered my banners to a scrap of burlap ribbon that I'd frayed on all four sides.  I adhered my banners to my burlap and my burlap to my card base using Sticky Strip.  I then adhered one of the wooden leaves from the Autumn Wooden Elements to my burlap using Glue Dots.  To embellish, I added a Cajun Craze Candy Dot.

My card base is Very Vanilla with two more layers of Very Vanilla.  I'm absolutely in love with this Clean and Simple card!  I hope you enjoyed seeing it!

Magnificent Maple

I've been running low on Thank You cards.  I had several to get out this week and I knew I'd be needing more later this month.  So, I sat down and stamped a stack of these very quick cards this past weekend.  I used the Magnificent Maple single stamp, Gorgeous Grunge, and Lots of Thanks stamp sets to make it.  The colors were inspried by the Sweater Weather DSP in the Holiay Catalog - Chocolate Chip, Soft Sky, Tangerine Tango, Crushed Curry, and Sahara Sand.  Aren't they pretty together?

The card was very nice, but I thought it needed something to make it "pop".  Well, I'm on a Candy Dot kick....so you obviously know which embellishment I grabbed for!  I LOVE these things!!!  And, because there are SO many colors in the card, I was able to use an assortment of coordinating colors of dots on the cards I made.  Oh, and the fact that candy dots are so incredibly mailable, doesn't hurt, either!

A Fall Thank You

I took a break from stamping Christmas cards on Sunday to make this card.  I was inspired by the layouts on the Mojo Monday site and this layout caught my eye.  I had a bunch of Sweater Weather DSP sitting out on my table so I decided to make that layout using some of the DSP.  I thought the Doilies would be perfect for the circle in the layout.  However, the doily just looked too white.  I decided to spritz it to make it darker.  Now, I'm not exactly the most organized person.  None of my spritzer bottles are labeled.  So, I didn't really know what would come out when I sprayed.  The contents looked like they might be tannish - so I was thinking Soft Suede.  It was a complete surprise when champagne glimmer paint sprayed out mixed with something tannish.  I liked it!  Granted, champagne glimmer paint is retired.  But, I'll bet many of you have a tub of it sitting around. To top it off, I added some burlap ribbon, linen thread, and a wooden button.  And, if you're going to have champagne shimmer paint, champagne glimmer paper works well, too! 

Thankful Frame

Today I'm sharing another one of the projects my stamp club made this month. It was inpsired by a project I spotted on Pinterest - I know, you're shocked, right?  Pinterest is an awesome place to find inspiration for all sorts of things!  The original was created by Dani Dziama.  She framed hers in a really cool reclaimed barnwood frame.  Well, I didn't have one of those laying around and I didn't want to buy one.  I always have frames laying around and I spotted a raw wood, very simple frame from the local craft store.  I covered it in Chocolate Chip Core'dinations Cardstock and sanded the edges.  I sponged the edges of the frame with Chocolate Chip Classic Ink - it looks like like I stained it!

I made the background by sponging Sahara Sand Classic Ink polka dots.  Unlike yesterday's post, I did not freehand arrange the dots.  Instead, I used the stencil from the Build-a-Banner Simply Created Kit!  I cut the leaves out of Sweater Weather Designer Series Paper using the Autumn Accents Bigz Die.  The "thankful" sentiment is cut out of Chocolate Chip card stock using the Expressions Thinlits die.  I embellished with a little burlap ribbon, a Very Vintage Designer Button, and some Soft Sky Seam Binding.

Halloween Mini Muslin Treat Bags

Are you ready for Halloween?  My Facebook Newsfeed was filled with photos of Halloween costumes this weekend.  Kids were trunk or treating.  There were TONS of adult Halloween parties.  And we stayed home.  And I have no regrets!  I'm enjoying relaxing weekends.  I didn't have them for YEARS.  I forgot just how nice they can be.  We thought about going away, but chose to stay home with nothing to do. 

I started preparing for our Halloween open house.  It's a "party" that's evolved over the years.  It's never been anything formal.  I started by cooking up some chicken pot pie for my family.  Then I got married and Mike's family joined in.  Then we started inviting friends.  There's no official invitation or guest list.  If you're in the area of 3rd Street on Halloween, stop by.  I'm setting up a yummy candy/dessert bar this year.  I've been collecting candy for months now!  It's kinda crazy.  I have way more candy than I have potential guests.  My guests are going to need treat bags for their candy, right?  So, I've been experimenting with designs.  I love this one, it just might be too small, but it sure is cute!!!  I want them to take home LOTS of candy!

I used a sponge dauber and Pumpkin Pie classic ink and simply "daubed" spots on the mini muslin bag.  SO easy!  I then used a tag made from the Chalk Talk Framelits.  Yes, this tag is longer than the actual framelit - I had to play with the tag to get that to work and run it through twice to get the top to cut and the bottom to cut.  I stamped a sentiment from the Halloween Bash Stamp Set in Basic Gray Classic Ink.  I then embellished with a little Witches' Brew Designer Washi Tape and Basic Black Chevron Ribbon.

Thankful For...

It sure has been awhile since I've posted a card I personally stamped!  Life has been busy.  I'm sure you can relate.  Today I thought I'd share a card I created for my stamp club last week.  I have been wanting to use the Harvest of Thanks Stamp Set for awhile now.  And, with Thanksgiving right around the corner, I figured it was time to dust it off!

I used strips of Sweater Weather DSP, Burlap Ribbon, and Antique Brads to complete the look.  This set coordinates with a couple of the framellit collections:  Deco Labels (which is on sale through Monday for $18.71 instead of $24.95!), Apothecary Accents, and Bitty Banners!  I also used the Thankful stamp for the greeting.

Thanksgiving Swap

My downline met last night for our monthly gathering.  And, of course we swapped cards.  This month's theme was fall/Thanksgiving.  I thought I'd share my swap with you today.  This card was inspired by a couple of cards I spotted on Pinterest by Dani Dziama and Valerie Moody.  I didn't want to cut out all of the leaves like Dani had on her card.  I also didn't have any burlap ribbon laying around - I've used up all of mine on a special home decor project and I'm waiting for more to arrive.  Once it's finished, I'll post it.  I liked the pearls, but I wanted gold pearls.  So, I smooshed some pearls in Gold Encore Ink, sprinkled some clear embossing powder over them, and heat embossed them.  Lesson learned - pearls will melt!  So, be careful!

I'll be posting the cards that I received later (I'm composing today's post on Sunday so I haven't received them yet)!

Bite Me!

Have you tried Stampin' Up!'s Photopolymer stamp sets?  Stampin' Up! just released an adorable set just in time for all of your Halloween projects!

This adorable 10-piece stamp set is only $13.95 and only available in Photopolymer.  I personally love that spider web on the card above.  Click here to order yours today!

Stamp Sorority Halloween Swap

I'm so glad we decided to do themed swaps at my downline meetings each month.  It was pretty to see cards using all of the in colors last month.  And, this month, it was fun to see an assortment of Halloween cards.  I love their creativity.  Several demonstrators don't have Halloween stamps or chose not to use them.  I loved their creativity in "altering" other stamps to make them Halloweeny or used punch art.  Everyone I've shown this assortment to just ooohs and ahhhs and then regrets not having their camera!  So, never fear, I'm posting them here for all of eternity!

You may remember that we not only swap cards, but we have a swap contest each month.  The competition is tough.  You can hear everyone groan when they take a look at all of the swaps - it's SO hard to choose a favorite.  When I vote for my favorite, it's hard to decide - I factor in creative use of products, techniques, level of effort put into the card, and overall cuteness/appeal.  It's HARD!!!  Several times there hasn't been a real clear winner - the winner may have only received 3 votes where everyone else received 2.  I love that the winners really vary from month to month - there's no clear "most talented stamper" - they all are!  I love my team of demonstrators.  Okay....enough babbling...you want to see the cards!!!

First up is this month's winning card created by Shelly.  I knew the instant I saw it that it would be the winner.  Punch art is always adorable.  And she put a TON of effort into shading every single piece, drawing the whiskers, and sketching some birds.  The only stamped image is actually from Lovely as a Tree!  How's that for a Halloween card???

Next up is another fun punch art card - made by Gail.  I'm sure you'll probably immediately recognize this guy from Monster's Inc.  I think he's SUPER cute!  He'd make an absolutely adorable kid's card.

I just love this card from Darlene.  I love how she took a non-Halloween image and sketched a little mask on the cat!  She also added some tangerine tango "tiger stripes".  Super cute!

Patty Jo didn't attend the meeting, but her swaps did!  She made this cute Halloween card and incorporated the technique that both Shelly and Gail showed us at last month's downline meeting.  Just about everyone commented!    You probably can't tell from the photo, but Patty Jo heat embossed all of those "Trick or Treat" images in the background.

Next up is Lynn's card!  I love that she used the Halloween Hello stamp set that is full of tiny images.  I took one look at that set and wondered how on earth I could turn that into a card.  I think Lynn did a great job!  The images are adorable.  I also love that she used heat & stick powder and the new, black glitter to make the candy in the window.

This next card was created by Hallie.  I'm loving the sponged/brayered background.  The little haunted house is from the Best of Halloween stamp set - it's a smaller version of the original.  She used some retired stamps to make the gates - and I'm loving it (and wishing I hadn't sold those gates at my retired sale)!

This next card was created by Jen.  I LOVE that she used the Gorgeous Grunge stamp set to make blood splatter.  I always joke (since hearing that comparison at convention) that the stamp is like blood splatter.  It's PERFECT on this card.  It adds a fun pop of color.

Finally, I'll share my swap card.  It's a version of the card I posted here.  The only difference is that I didn't make this one with the Card Thinlits die.  This one is just flat with no fun folds.

Halloween Card - Circle Thinlits Card Die

I thought you'd all enjoy seeing one of the cards my stamp club made last week.  It was inspired by a variety of cards I saw online.  I'm pretty pleased with the way it turned out.

Here are the supplies I used to make this card:
- Circle Card Thinlit Dies
- 2-1/2" Circle Punch
- Chevron Embossing Folder
- Designer Label Punch
- Halloween Happiness Stamp Set
- Neutrals Candy Dots
- 1/8" Basic Black Taffeta Ribbon
- Jet Black Stazon Ink
- 1" Circle Punch
- Witches Brew Designer Series Paper
- Very Vanilla, Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black, and Summer Starfruit Cardstock

Fall Diva Banner

Are you ready for more samples?  I have more to share!  Today I'm sharing the Fall Banner my Stamp Sorority Divas made last Wednesday night.  You know who my Stamp Sorority Divas are, right?  They are the top-performing demonstrators on my team from last quarter.  Each quarter I celebrate their successes - recruiting, sales, promotions - with dinner and stamping.  One of my Divas is a bit more vocal when it comes to requests than others - and I think it was a good thing this month!  She dictated the menu (which was entirely gluten-free) and the project.

First we had dinner - an easy, summer ham dinner with potato salad, baked beans, corn on the cob, and deviled eggs.  They all seemed to enjoy it (and I enjoyed it because it was easier than my usual diva meals).

Next came the stamping.  I typically design a few cards featuring something new.  This time, I asked for requests.  Several of them were over stamping on Monday night to make our convention Make & Takes (which I'll post later).  I asked for requests for a Diva Night project.  Patty Jo quickly requested to try out the stencils and banners.  She only really wanted to try one.  But, why stop at one, right???  We should make an ENTIRE banner! I had all of the supplies in a box and pulled it up on the table and revelead our stamping project.  I received a mix of emotions from excitement to fear (maybe).  How on earth would we make that banner in one night!  It's easier than you think - especially when all of the supplies are prepared for you!

I had an obscene amount of Sweater Weather DSP on hand (somehow I had 4 packs) so I decided to make the base of the banner out of DSP.  They're each 5x7 with a notch out of the bottom.  I find it easier to see the stenciled letter on a solid background, so I layered a 3" strip of coordinating cardstock over each and sponged Chocolate Chip classic ink to make the letters. The cardstock colors are Soft Sky, Tangerine Tango, Sahara Sand, and Crushed Curry.  Inspired by the two banner kits in the catalog, I made rosettes out of the Sweater Weather DSP.  Here's where it got tricky.  The banners in the kit are 2"x16" scored ever 3/8".  Sweater Weather DSP is only 12" long.  So, all four had to be pieced together.  When they're together, you can't even tell the DSP has bee pieced together.  We then layered Naturals Designer Buttons, stamped images and ribbon to embellish.

To celebrate five successfully created banners (created in 2 hours), we then headed out for ice cream at the Elmer Twist (featuring gluten-free ice cream cones)!  They all said they loved making one BIG project instead of a few cards.  It was pretty much unanimous that they wouldn't have made these banners on their own - but were thrilled to have one to display.  So, I'm already dreaming up my next Diva Night BIG project!

Here's a list of all of the supplies I used to create the banner:

- Sweater Weather DSP
- Soft Sky, Tangerine Tango, Crushed Curry, Sahara Sand, Chocolate Chip, and Very Vanilla Cardstock
- Tangerine Tango and Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
- Tangerine Tango and Crushed Curry Stampin' Write Markers
- Circles Collection Framelits (for the 2" cirlce on the "f" and "l")
- Magnificent Maple Stamp
- Truly Grateful Stamp Set
- 2-3/8" Scallop Circle Punch
- 1/2" Circle Punch
- Simply Scored Tool
- Naturals Designer Buttons
- Linen Thread
- Jumbo Sticky Rounds
- 7/8" Cotton Ribbon
- Crushed Curry Chevron Ribbon
- 7/16" Natural Trim Ribbon
- Soft Sky Seam Binding
- 1-1/4" Burlap Ribbon
- Jute Twine (available in the Banner Simply Created Kits)
- Stencils from the Build a Banner Simply Created Kit

Gold Foil Thankful Card

So many of you commented on this card at my open house.  It's a card that my Die Cut Divas got to make last Wednesday.  It's funny...I designed it the night before the class.  I was really dragging and just couldn't come up with a design that I loved.  So, I finally settled on this one.  I found that this sentiment is SO hard to work with because it's just so gosh darn long!  I saw several cards on Pinterest where the sentiment went up the side like I have here.  I loved it - and so did you!

The stamps are from my favorite Holiday Catalog Stamp set - Truly Grateful.  The fabulous patterned paper is from the Sweater Weather DSP.  And, of course, the fabulous gold sentiment was created using the Gold Foil Paper and the Expressions Thinlits - both from the Holiday Catalog.  Oh, and who can forget - I added a couple of Chocolate Chip Candy Dots to the card because I thought it needed something extra to balance it out.

Thankful for Fall

Yesterday I shared a fall-themed hello card.  So, how about a fall-themed thank you card today?  Here's another card I made this past weekend.  It uses one of my favorite stamp sets - Gorgeous Grunge.  SERIOUSLY LOVE THIS STAMP SET!  I love the blood splatters and skid marks!  The Harvest of Thanks Stamp Set looks a little aged, so I thought it went well with the wear and tear of Gorgeous Grunge.  What do you think?  I added just a little embellishment with some Brights and Neutrals Candy Dots along with a Pumpkin Pie button and linen thread.  I stamped the Thanks sentiment in both Pumpkin Pie and Old Olive.  I cut them both with the coordinating Apothecary Accents Framelits.  I then handcut the Pumpkin Pie Thanks and popped it up over the Olive Layer to add interest.

Fall Evenings and Fall Cards

I don't know where you live, but this past weekend felt almost as cool as fall here in Southern New Jersey...at least the evenings did.  It was WONDERFUL!  I started stamping some fall-themed cards for this weekend's open house.  I debated whether or not to show them to you - they may be projects for a class.  I haven't decided. 

So many people don't celebrate Halloween - and that's okay!  So, for today's card I turned the Halloween Happiness stamp into a festive "Hello" card.  What do you think?

I spotted the idea to use the Halloween Happiness Stamp with the Chalk Talk Framelits on Pinterest (created by Barb Mullikin) - but the rest of the card is all me!  I really struggle when I can't easy layer my focal point.  So, to add some separating between my focal point and the background, I cut two additional tags out of Pumpkin Pie and Old Olive.  I also added a strip of Sweather Weather.  I got a little creative with my bow.  I'm TOTALLY IN LOVE with the new Burlap Ribbon.  But, it's so stinkin' think.  A knot just isn't mailable - not that this card is either.  But, I took a strip of it, then I wrapped some linen thread around the middle and tied the bow.  I'm so proud of myself.  I love the result!  The "hello" sentiment is from the Four You stamp set.

Convention 2013 - Be The Difference - Swaps 2

This year I did something I don't usually do - I designed two different swaps.  I shared my first swap earlier today.  This one includes several Sneak Peek items from the upcoming Holiday Catalog!  I only made 42 of these (that's how many I could get out of a roll of the burlap ribbon).

When I flipped through the catalog initially, this stamp set really caught my eye  I think it was the cool background image stamped here in Daffodil Delight.

Except for fraying 84 ends of burlap ribbon, this swap came together quickly.  Here are the supplies I used to create this card:

- Express Yourself Stamp Set (Hostess Set)
- Truly Grateful Stamp Set (Holiday Catalog)
- Daffodil Delight Classic Ink
- Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
- Whisper White Card Stock
- Soft Sky Card Stock
- Chocolate Chip Card Stock
- 1-1/4” Burlap Ribbon

Home Decor Wedding Scrapbook Page

The last project my Stamp Club made earlier this week was this 8x8 frameable scrapbook page.  Annemarie's daughter got married over the summer and so did one of our former stamp club members!  Every few months my stamp club asks for a non-card project.  And, Annemarie wanted one she could use to showcase a wedding photo.  I tried to design something a bit flexible that could also be used for a non-wedding page.  Many of my friends have recently posted fall-related family portraits on Facebook.  And with Halloween just last week (at least it was in NJ), I figured several other club members may have a recent picture to use.  So, I chose fall colors.

Now, I got married in March - not exactly "fall themed".  I always wanted to get married in the fall.  But, we scheduled our wedding to coincide with the Hawaii Incentive trip back in 2009 (it was our honeymoon).  However, I remembered some of our photos were taken out behind the reception hall by a waterfall.  And guess what?  There were still leaves on the ground in the background!  It totally works!  I can't recall what colors Annemarie's daughter chose for her wedding.  But, Meghan chose a Pool Party-like color.  So, I hope this works for everyone.  I have the perfect shadow-box-like frame in which to display mine....until the next club member asks for a non-card project!

The colors are inspired by the Comfort Cafe DSP - Midnight Muse, Summer Starfruit, Soft Suede, Cajun Craze, and Very Vanilla.  I sponged the edges of the Summer Starfruit with Soft Suede and then spritzed it with some sort of concoction (Soft Suede reinker, Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint, and rubbing alcohol.  You can't really tell there's Soft Suede in it, though.  I punched 10 circles out of the DSP and coordinating cardstocks.  I then embossed the cardstock circles.  And, to finish of the project, I used one of my favorite buttons from the Holiday Catalog with some crochet trim tied through the holes.

Happy Halloween!

Over a month ago I spotted this idea on Pinterest.  I made a dozen or so of these as door prizes, favors, and displays for my open house earlier this month.  I just love them.  They're individual S'Mores Kits!  Aren't they fun?  Tucked inside of each cello bag are 2 graham cracker Squares, a chocolate bar, and a ghost Peep!  The toppers were a bit of work since I decided to hand-cut each little ghoul.  

If you live in a town like mine, Trick-or-Treat has been postponed to Saturday due to Hurricane Sandy.  So, you still have plenty of time to pick up ghosts and candy bars on clearance to give away on Saturday! 

I hope you have a fabulous, fun, and frightful Halloween!

Thank You!

Wow!  I'm thrilled that so many of you stocked up on new stamp sets yesterday during Stampin' Up!'s one day sale.  Thank you to each and every one of you who placed an order in the middle of the crazy storm.  It was a record-breaking day for Stampin' Up!

Earlier today I made a huge stack of these thank you cards for those of you who placed an order at my open house and/or took advantage of the extra 15% off discount.  This card's layout was inspired by a card by Kimberly Van Diepen.  The stamped leaves was inspired by a card by Melissa Levay.  It's a little labor-intensive, but I'm pleased with the result.

I used the Gently Falling and En Francais stamp sets.  The colors are Pool Party, Lucky Limeade, Early Espresso, Cajun Craze, More Mustard, Soft Suede, and Crumb Cake.

Thanksgiving Invites

About a week ago one of my co-workers asked if I could design her Thanksgiving Invitations this year.  I was flattered that she'd ask.  She throws a FABULOUS Thanksgiving dinner every year - at least I imagine it that way in my head!  Each year she has a theme.  This year's theme is cranberries.  She and her husand have found a cranberry glaze for the turkey, there will be cranberry side dishes, there will be cranberries in the centerpieces.  She goes all out.  But, she was struggling to find invitations with cranberries.  The best I could do was cranberry colored card stock (otherwise known as Cherry Cobbler).  I designed a few invitations and she chose the one on the right.  I'll also be printing up menus, place cards, and possibly favors to coordinate. 

The invite she chose uses Soft Suede, Very Vanilla, and Cherry Cobbler Card Stock.  I cut out leaves using the Autumn Accent die from Cherry Cobbler and Champagne Glimmer Paper.  I embossed the Cherry Cobbler leaf using the woodgrain embossing folder.

The next two are the two she didn't choose:

Thankful Fall

Yesterday one of my demonstrator friends dropped off some glimmer paper that she had borrowed.  Tucked inside the bag was this gorgeous thank you card.  She said that it "hadn't made the cut" for one of her recent events.  Ignoring the fact that she had given me a "reject", I fell in love the card and couldn't understand why she decided against it.  I think she chose such a unique color combo - Summer Starfruit, Pumpkin Pie, Baja Breeze, and a few others!

Melissa used the Gently Falling Stamp Set.  I love how she stamped off some of the solid stamps to fill in the white space.  She told me she did not use a Stamp-a-Ma-Jig.  She didn't have to!  This stamp set is so forgiving. 

Open House Fun!

What a wonderful day it was yesterday!  It was a perfect fall day.  Lots of people were out and about in Elmer enjoying the Harvest Festival.  And so many of you stopped by my Open House.  My house was never empty the entire 7 hours!  And I loved that I had the opportunity to visit with everyone who stopped by.  It truly was a perfect day.  But, I know many of you would LOVE to see my displays.  I posted some pictures on Facebook yesterday before everyone arrived. I was actually ready 30 minutes before it started which was a record!  That's mostly because Mike was a HUGE HUGE HUGE help!  He assembled the boards, put together (and stamped) the recipe cards, prepped the make & take supplies, cleaned the bathroom, moved furniture, and more!  We made a great team.  So, I know...on with the photos..

The first display area everyone saw first was my Christmas display.  You'll see more about the wallhanging tomorrow in my Twelve Weeks of Christmas series!

The next stop was my Holiday Catalog Accessories display.  Each and every die, punch, special ink, DSP, and embellishment was on display on this board (if they weren't displayed elsewhere).

As they continued to walk through my living room, they encountered one of my two large display boards.  These featured swaps I'd recently received at Disney, convention, or downline meetings.  I also had a few fall items on display (and my gingerbread cookies).

As they looked left, the final living room display was Halloween.  Have you noticed the "kraft paper" table cloths?  I used packing material from my SU orders to cover my tables, tv stand, piano, and piano bench.  I stamped images from the stamp sets on them!  I realized that there are four stamp sets that I don't own out of the Holiday Catalog!  That might be a record!  I usually buy it all - and there was a time when I bought it all in both clear AND wood!  That was just silly (the buying both in wood and clear part).

As they entered the dining room, I'd set up a small "coffee bar" with my Keurig and a wide variety of coffee, decaf, tea, hot cocoa, and apple cider.  Besides the gingerbread cookies, I'd also baked brownies, cupcakes, and pumpkin bars.  I'd also purchased an Cinnamon Apple Walnut Coffee Cake (from QVC) that was dubbed the "best cake I've ever eaten" by one of my guests.  It was pretty darn good for something that I ordered off of the tv!  My dining room was set up as a place everyone could sit and order from the catalog.

The next stop was the Make & Take in my classroom.  They wandered down the hall and could look through my hallway display rack (sorry, I didn't snap a picture).  I had a second large display board of swaps in there for everyone to enjoy.

Perfectly Preserved

My hostess, Judy, from last Saturday's workshop also requested a card using the Perfectly Preserved Stamp Set.  Nothing on this card is original!  This card is a hybrid - meaning I've cased a couple of projects to make this card.  You may recognize the background from a card I posted a couple of weeks ago.  LOVE this background.  Everyone at the workshop was scribbling down measurements for the strips.  They are 3/4", 1-1/2", 1-1/2", and 1-1/4".  The focal point is cased directly from the Holiday Catalog.

World Card Making Day

Did you stamp any cards this past Saturday?  It was World Card Making Day.  I did!  I made several projects.  One was a wedding card that I've already given away.  This is sad...I don't remember the last time I actually sent a hand-stamped card to someone.  Seriously.  Months.  It's sad.  I didn't actually take a photo of it, but I will be creating a similar card for my stamp club next week so I'll share it with you.

Today's card was inspired by a lot of cards I've seen or received.  The color scheme was inspired by a couple of cards I've received from my friend, Claire.  But, apparently the layout was subconsciously cased from Shelli!  I posted this card on Facebook while I was making it and one of my friends commented that it looked a lot like a Shelli card.  And, she's right!  I had looked at her blog a few days earlier and it must have stuck.

I am absolutely in love with the Etruscan Elegance Jumbo Wheel.  Seriously in love with it.  I don't love wheels.  But, I keep find myself reaching for this one.  I rolled it up the side of the card.  Who does that?  I did!  I like it!  I then cut some leaves using the Autumn Accents die using some More Mustanrd, Raspberry Ripple, and Champage Glimmer paper.  I embossed the leaves using the Woodgrain and Houndstooth folders.  The sentiment is stamped in Island Indigo classic ink using a sentiment from the Sweet Essentials Stamp Set (w-126455 or c-126457).

Happy World Card Making Day!

That's right!  Today is World Card Making Day!  I'm planning to spend most of the day making cards and other projects for my open house.  But, I wanted to share with you a card I received yesterday from my friend, Claire!  You just know it's going to be a good mail day when you open your mailbox and find a sealed Stampin' Up! envelope.  My mail delivery person always makes sure they're at the very top of the pile of mail.

So, I challenge you today - sit down and make a quick card!  Claire's is a fabulous example of a card you can whip up in no time!

Autumn Friends

I noticed a friend of mine pinned this card the other day and it worked perfectly to round out the projects my Die Cut Divas made this week.  I love the simplicity and texture on this card.  AND, I love how it uses a DSP that I struggled to use on a project!

Here are the supplies I used on the project:
- Autumn Accents Bigz Die (127812) - Holiday Catalog page 33
- Orchard Harvest DSP (126895) - Holiday Catalog page 28
- Brushed Bronze Designer Buttons (127833) - Holiday Catalog page 32
- Woodgrain Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (127821) - Holiday Catalog page 33
- Linen Thread
- Polka Dot Textured Impressions Embossing Folder
- Cajun Craze, More Mustard, Early Espresso, and Crumb Cake Card Stock
- Cajun Craze Classic Ink

A Die Cut Halloween Favor

I know I said I was done with Halloween over a week ago, but I just couldn't help myself!  And, I'm pretty sure this won't be the last, either!  This simple little guy was another project my Die Cut Divas made last night.  It uses the Petite Pocket Die and the Spider Web Textured Embossing Folder.  Hershey bars were on sale at the local grocery store this week and I picked up a hundred or so!  I have a really fun project planned for them for my Open House!  But, I also need to stock up on sale candy for my hundreds of Trick-or-Treaters later this month!  By now I'm sure you recognize the Googly Ghouls stamp set!  Yup, it's my favorite!  They're just so stinkin' cute!!!  I decided to "suspend" my little spider from my Basic Black Scalloped Ribbon using some Whisper White Baker's Twine.  The sentiment is from the Monster Munchies stamp set.  Think I could whip up a couple hundred of these for my Trick-or-Treaters by the end of the month?

Here are all of the supplies I used to create this project:
- Googly Ghouls Stamp Set (w 128060 or c 128063) - Holiday Catalog page 27
- Googlies (127539) - Holiday Catalog page 27
- Monster Munchies Stamp Set (w 127904 or c 127907)
- Whisper White and Basic Gray Card Stock
- Jet Black Stazon Ink
- Basic Black and Tangerine Tango Stampin' Write Markers
- Petite Pocket Die
- Spider Web Textured Impressions Embossing Folder
- Basic Black Scalloped Ribbon
- Whisper White Bakers Twine
- Corner Rounder

Holiday Catalog Tour - Easy Thanksgiving!

You've heard me talk about the amazing projects in the demonstrator-exclusive Stampin' Success Magazine.  Here's another sample I spotted in this month's issue.  Would you believe me if I told you this simply elegant card was made using Christmas DSP?  YUP!  There's a fabulous little stack of DSP in the Holiday Catalog on page 20.  It's a 4-1/2" x 6-1/2" tablet with 48 sheets of DSP!  I love the assortment of patters than are included.  Here are just three of them.  I simply adhered strips to a Very Vanilla Card Stock base.  I then added a strip of scalloped Very Vanilla card stock on which I stamped the Happy Thanksgiving sentiment from the Teeny Tiny Wishes Stamp Set.  I added a bow tied out of the brand new 7/8" Cotton Ribbon and adhered it to the card using some glue dots.  So quick, so simple, and so flexible!

Here are the supplies and item numbers:
- Festival of Prints Designer Series Paper Stack (126904) - Holiday Catalog page 20
- 7/8" Cotton Ribbon (127844) - Holiday Catalog page 20
- Teeny Tiny Wishes Stamp Set (w 115370 or c 127802) - Annual Catalog page 133
- Early Espresso Classic Ink
- Lucky Limeade Stampin' Write Marker
- Very Vanilla Card Stock
- Scallop Edge Border Punch (119882) - Annual Catalog page 183

One More Wonderfall

I have one more sample featuring the Wonderfall Stamp Set and coordinating Autumn Accents Bigz Die.  This projects better showcases the way the stamp set and die work together.  This project was inspired by fellow demonstrator - BJ Peters.  She made a gorgeous assortment and discusses how they were made.  My pumpkin is Tangerine Tango and was embossed with the new Lacy Brocade embossing folder. I did, however, think BJ's pumpkins needed a stem.  So, I added one using some rolled up Early Espresso Card Stock.  However, I think a cinnamon stick would be awesome!  I used a bunch of glue dots to adhere the stem.  However, a glue stick would probably be better!

Here are the supplies I used to make this project:
- Lacy Brocade Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (127819) - Holiday Catalog page 6
- Wonderfall Stamp Set (w 128084 or c 128087) - Holiday Catalog page 33
- Autumn Accents Bigz Die (127812) - Holiday Catalog page 33
- Tangerine Tango, Early Espresso, and Garden Green Card Stock
- Garden Green Classic Ink

Holiday Tour - Wonderfall

I'm SO in love with the Early Espresso Stampin' Emboss Powder.  You have NO idea!  I've wanted a brown embossing powder for YEARS!!!  Did ya miss it?  It's kinda tucked away at the bottom of page 32 in the Holiday Catalog.  But I'm getting ahead of myself!  I wanted to feature the Wonderfall Stamp Set and the coordinating Autumn Accents Bigz Die today.  These guys work perfectly together.  Stampin' Up! previously offered a Leaf Die.  It was nice.  It did the job.  But, it wasn't exclusive.  It didn't coordinate with our stamps like this one.  So, don't get confused (I know many of you have).  This is a BRAND NEW LEAF DIE!

I find the easiest way to stamp and cut these leaves is to cut the leaf first, ink up my stamp, lay the stamp face up on the table, and carefully lay the leaf on top of the inked stamp.  I gently rub the card stock to transfer the ink.  It works great!  I stamped these leaves in Versamark.

Can you see th Crumb Cake background layer behind my Early Espresso Tulle Ribbon?  Have you seen the Natural Composition Specialty Paper in the Annual Catalog?  I love this stuff.  The design is a glossy, raised pattern printed on a natural, heavy weight paper.  LOVE IT!!!

Here are all of the supplies I used to make this card:
- Wonderfall Stamp Set (w128084 or c 128087) - Holiday Catalog page 33
- Autumn Accents Bigz Die (127812) - Holiday Catalog page 33
- Seasonal Sayings Stamp Set (w 128006 or c 128009) - Holiday Catalog page 34
- Early Espresso Stampin' Emboss Powder (128980) - Holiday Catalog page 32
- Brushed Bronze Designer Buttons (127833) - Holiday Catalog page 32
- Early Espresso Tulle Ribbon (127839) - Holiday Catalog page 4
- Versamark Ink
- Early Espresso, More Mustard, Cajun Craze, Soft Suede, Lucky Limeade, and Crumb Cake Card Stock
- Natural Composition Specialty Designer Series Paper (126917) - Annual Catalog page 162
- Soft Suede Taffeta Ribbon (122967) - Annual Catalog page 173
- Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border (119275) - Annual Catalog page 183

Holiday Catalog Tour - Tweet Leaves

I'm officially kicking off the next section of the catalog tour - Autumn.  Unofficially, I consider that to be pages 28 through 33 in the Holiday Catalog.  I'll probably be spending the next week on this section of the catalog before diving into Christmas.  Today I'm sharing with you a card I used with the single stamp - Tweet Leaves.  This affordable stamp (under $10!) is located on page 31 of the Holiday Catalog.  It coordinates with the Autumn Accents Bigz Die on page 33.  However, you don't need to have the die to enjoy the stamp!

To make the leaf, I started by cutting the maple leaf out of Very Vanilla Card Stock.  I then colored the Tweet Leaves stamp using a variety of Stampin' Write Markers.  I huffed the stamp then gently laid the card stock on top of the inked stamp.  I gently rubbed the card stock to make sure the ink was transferred. 

To make the woodgrain background, I used several new products in the Holiday Catalog on page 6.  Stampin' Up! introduced Core'dinations Card Stock.  One of the features I've always loved about Stampin' Up! card stock is that it's solid core - meaning the color goes all of the way through.  However, sometimes you may want to change it up.  Core'dinations card stock allows us to do just that!  It's got a white core.  You can emboss it witn an embossing folder (like I have here) and then lightly sand the raised edges with the brand new Stampin' Sanding Block.  When you're done sanding, you can then pick up every speck of dust using the Core'dinations Dust Buddy.  Yes,  you really want to get a Dust Buddy (they're only $2.50).

I love the layered ribbon on the sample in the Holiday Catalog on page 31 so I copied it.  I adhered a strip of Lucky Limeade ribbon and then wrapped some Early Espresso 1/4" Stitched Grosgrain Ribbon (white stitching removed) around the card.  Finally I wrapped some linen thread through and tied it all up around a ribbon slide!

Here are all of the supplies I used to make this card:
- Tweet Leaves Stamp Set (128111) - Holiday Catalog page 31
- Full of Blessing Stamp Set (w-128078 or c-128081) - Holiday Catalog page 32
- Woodgrain Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (127821) - Holiday Catalog page 33
- Autumn Accents Bigz Die (127812) - Holiday Catalog page 33
- Designer Ribbon Slides (127834) - Holiday Catalog page 31
- Early Espresso Core'dinations Card Stock (127848) - Holiday Catalog page 6
- Stampin' Sanding System (129367) - Holiday Catalog page 6
- Core'dinations Dust Buddy (129366) - Holiday Catalog page 6
- Lucky Limeade Ruffled Ribbon (122977) - Annual Catalog page 172
- Early Espresso 1/4" Stitched Grosgrain Ribbon (126871) - Annual Catalog page 173
- Linen Thread (104199) - Annual Catalog page 173
- Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla, and Lucky Limeade Card Stock
- Marina Mist, More Mustard, Early Espresso, Lucky Limeade, and Cajun Craze Stampin' Write Markers
- Early Espresso Classic Ink
- Small Oval Punch (120908) - Annual Catalog page 184
- 3/16" Corner Rounder (119871) - Annual Catalog page 183

An Orchard Harvest Birthday

I CASEd this card recently from a friend on Facebook.  I'm pretty sure she posted it on Saturday.  I want to give that friend credit, but I can no longer find the post! 

I love the simplicity of the card.  I love the variety of widths of the DSP.  I love the card.  This layout could easily be used for any occasion - male or female - with any DSP. 

Here are the supplies I used on my version:
- Orchard Harvest DSP (126895) - Holiday Catalog page 28
- Very Vanilla Card Stock (101650) - Annual Catalog page 156
- Cajun Craze Classic Ink (126965) - Annual Catalog page 155
- Paper Piercing Tool (126189) - Annual Catalog page 181
- Linen Thread (104199) - Annual Catalog page 173
- Apothecary Accents Framelits (127003) - Annual Catalog page 191
- 3/16" Corner Rounder (119871) - Annual Catalog page 183

Halloween Tree!

Each month, Stampin' Up! demonstrators receive an amazing magazine packed full of creative and business inspiration.  I spotted a project in next month's magazine that I just HAD to recreate - especially since it's perfect for the Halloween project portion of my Holiday Catalog tour (and uses my favorite little monsters).  It'll definitely be on display in my living room until Halloween.  I'm in love with the finished product!

I made eight more complex ornaments and five "balls".  The "balls" are the easy part!  I simply punched 4 circles for each, folded them in half, glued them together, punched a hole through the top, and laced some linen thread through to make a hook.

The base of the "complex" ornaments are made using strips of Howlstooth & Scaringbone DSP that was either 1" or 1-1/4" x 12".  I scored each strip every 1/4" using my Simply Scored Tool to make the lollies.  I then used an assortment of punched shapes using card stock and Silver Glimmer Paper.  I embellished using ribbon, buttons, linen thread, googly eyes, and stamped images.

Here are the supplies I used:
- Mixed Medley Stamp Set (hostess set) - Holiday Catalog page 39
- Googly Ghouls Stamp Set (w-128060 or c-128063) - Holiday Catalog page 27
- Howlstooth & Scaringbone DSP (126906) - Holiday Catalog page 24
- 1/2" Striped Satin Ribbon (127837) - Holiday Catalog page 26
- Googlies (127539) - Holiday Catalog page 27
- 1-1/4" Scallop Circle Punch (127811) - Holiday Catalog page 7
- Assorted Circle and Scallop Circle Punches - Annual Catalog page 184
- Very Vanilla, Basic Black, and Tangerine Tango Card Stock - Annual Catalog
- Silver Glimmer Paper (124005) - Annual Catalog page 160
- Neutrals Designer Buttons (119743) - Annual Catalog page 176
- Vintage Faceted Designer Buttons ( 127555) - Annual Catalog page 176
- Linen Thread (104199) - Annual Catalog page 173
- Basic Jewels Rhinestones (119246) - Annual Catalog page 175
- Jet Black Stazon Ink (101406) - Annual Catalog page 157
- Simply Scored Tool (122334) - Annual Catalog page 181
- Black Faux Branches (non-SU product)
- Clay Flower Pot (non-SU product)
- Black Spray Paint (non-SU product)
-

Howl-o-Ween Printer's Kit Home Decor Class

I have an exciting class announcement today that features some products in the Holiday Catalog!  I have the opportunity to offer this class because I had at least one person join my team of demonstrators within the last few months.  Space is VERY limited in this class (I'm restricting it to 6 seats). I'm thinking it might be popular based upon some of the comments left on my posts on Facebook while I was making mine.

In this class you will make this adorable Halloween-themed home decor project.   You'll receive LOTS of extra goodies that you can take home and use on additional projects, too.  I'm also offering an option that includes the Toxic Treats stamp set!

Since this is a kit from Stampin' Up!, you'll receive an entire package of Basic Rhinestones AND an entire package of Lucky Limeade Baker's Twine as part of the class (and you'll have TONS of both leftover on your projects at home).

Please use the registration form below or e-mail me (kristinkortonick@yahoo.com) to register.  As usual, pre-payment is required to secure your seat.  All materials will be provided.

Date:  Thursday, October 4th
Time:  6:30pm
Kit Only Materials Fee:  $40
Kit + Toxic Treats Clear-Mount Stamp Set - $65
Kit + Toxic Treats Wood-Mount Stamp Set - $75

Online Ticketing for Howl-o-Ween Printer's Tray Home Decor Class powered by Eventbrite

My 2012 Convention Swap

Since I wasn't blogging over the summer, I never shared my swap from convention!  I decided to do Halloween.  Not many people swap Halloween-themed cards.  They're usually excited about the new catalog or Christmas.  I always enjoy the Halloween swaps I do receive - and most people seemed to be excited about receiving them this year.  However, there were a few who turned away saying that they don't do Halloween.  Oh well.  I hope their customers don't, either.  Ha! 

My swap card is perfect for my little challenge - I used the Ghoulish Googlies Bundle to make them.  It was actually kinda tricky.  I had to be very, very careful and strategic.  Convention is in July - the month demonstrators can pre-order products.  And, there's a limit to how many of each product a demonstrator can order during a pre-order period.  I typically make 96 swaps (one pack of card stock for the card base).  I wanted to use an image that required two googly eyes each.  That's just shy of 200.  There are 50 googly eyes per sheet.  That would require four sheets of googly eyes.  Oops!  Demonstrators could only order 3 sheets.  Luckily the googly eyes are also in the Ghoulish Googlies Designer Kit.  Ha Ha!!!  But, I still didn't have many to spare.

The layout for this card came from a Stampin' Success magazine from earlier in the year.  AND, I used the same layout for my Disney swaps.  I probably didn't share them either, did I?  I posted this card on Facebook in July and received several questions about how I made the tag.  I have one word - "punches"!  The top of the tag was made by sliding the strip of paper into the 2-1/2" Circle Punch.  The bottom of the tag was actually hand cut - but you could use a square punch.  I'm a perfectionist and thought it would be easier to get a symetrical tag by measuring and hand-cutting 96 of these.

I also used a technique to make his little face green.  I am NOT a watercolorer.  I don't claim to be a watercolorer.  So, when I tried using a blender pen it was too streaky and a marker was too dark.  So, I made a stencil!  I stamped my little friend on some scrap paper, cut out the face to make a stencil, and used a sponge dauber and some Lucky Limeade ink to sponge his face green!  It was SO much faster, not streaky, and I could get some shading in if I wanted.  I did go back in with a blender pen and color his hands and ears.  But, they're so small you don't notice streaking.

You may remember that I also posted a card last week that used this stamp set.  I didn't want it to go unnoticed!  I think the Googly Ghouls stamp set may be the most-used (so far) of my Holiday Catalog stamp sets.  If you missed that card, simply click here to view it.

Anyway, here are all of the supplies I used to make today's card:
- Googly Ghouls Stamp Set (w-128060 or c-128063) - Holiday Catalog page 27
- Googlies (127539) - Holiday Catalog page 27
    (the above two products are also included in the Ghoulish Googlies Bundle on page 27)
- Howlstooth & Scaringbone Designer Series Paper (126906) - Holiday Catalog page 24
- Jet Black Stazon, Lucky Limeade Classic and Tangerine Tango Classic Inks
- 2-1/2" Circle and Scallop Edge Border Punches - Annual Catalog pages 183-184
- Basic Black, Basic Gray, Very Vanilla, and Tangerine Tango Card Stock
- Sponge Daubers (102892) - Annual Catalog page 179
- Blender Pens (102845) - Annual Catalog page 178
- 1/2" Basic Black Scallop Dots Ribbon - used upside down (124145)- Annual Catalog page 172
- Stapler (not SU)

Holiday Catalog Tour - Monster Munchies

Today I'm focusing on page 26 of the Holiday Catalog and using the Monster Munchies stamp set.  It's perfect for Halloween Parties!  I don't know about you, but I'm starting to love Halloween - it's another excuse to host a fabulous bash - and make LOTS of food!  I grew up in an area where we were lucky to get four Trick-or-Treaters and two of those were my brother and I!  I moved into town when I purchased my house eight years ago.  My first Halloween I purchased what I thought was quite a bit of candy - but ran out early and had to make an emergency run to the store for more!  We now keep count!  Last year we had 248 kids who stopped by!  It's a great social event!  We sit on our front porch and hand out candy - it's pointless to sit inside and wait for the doorbell!  I'm still the only one on the family who gets lots of kids so I've started to invite everyone to my house to help!  Since I've gotten married, it's turned into a rather large gathering.  A few years back I started making Chicken Pot Pie for everyone.  But, last year I baked, too, inviting friends to stop by!  I've already been scoping out decor for this year.  (I actually started in August.)

 

These are two of the pictures I found on my phone from last year!  You'll probably recognize some retired SU products in there!  I just LOVE those white pumpkins!  Behind them are some of the apothecary jars I fill with back-up candy!!!  The other picture shows some of the treats I served.  There was more in the kitchen.

But I should probably share about that first picture up there!  I had some fun making the treat bag (I won't be making 248 of those)!  I used one of the glassine bags that come in the Ghoulish Googlies Designer Kit and ran it through my Big Shot using the Spider Web Embossing folder.  A super-cute extra touch!  I made a tag for my bag using the Monster Munchies Stamp set, my Simply Scored Tool, and some DSP.  I used some of that 1/2" Striped Satin Ribbon that is on the same page.  Cute bag, huh?  I also made a simple "love note" to accompany the treat bag.  I felt like I was sorta cheating by only using the one image from the stamp set!

Here are the ingredients for the treat bag:
- Monster Munchies Stamp Set (w-127904 or c-127907) - Holiday Catalog page 26
- Ghoulish Googlies Designer Kit (126914) - Holiday Catalog page 27
- 1/2" Striped Satin Ribbon (127837) - Holiday Catalog page 26
- Howlstooth & Scaringbone Designer Series Paper (126906) - Holiday Catalog page 24
- Tangerine Tango Classic Ink
- 1-1/4" Circle, 1-3/8" Circle, 2-3/8" Scallop Circle Punches - Annual Catalog page 184
- Simply Scored Scoring Tool (122334) - Annual Catalog page 181
- Very Vanilla, Basic Gray, and Basic Black Card Stock
- Spider Web Textured Impressions Folder (120889) - Annual Catalog page 189

Here are the ingredients for the card:
- Monster Munchies Stamp Set (w-127904 or c-127907) - Holiday Catalog page 26
- Howlstooth & Scaringbone Designer Series Paper (126906) - Holiday Catalog page 24
- Jet Black Stazon Ink
- Tangerine Tango, Basic Gray, and Very Vanilla Card Stock
- Decorative Label and Extra-Large Oval Punches - Annual Catalog pages 182-184

Halloween Tour Continued...

I wanted to continue my tour of the Halloween products on page 25 of the Holiday Catalog today.  A couple of weeks ago I CASEd a card created by Kimberly Van Diepen.  I absolutely adore her style.  I had CASEd her card to use as a Make & Take for last month's downline meeting, but changed my mind for a variety of reasons.  I loved the layout - and had it in the back of my mind when I started created today's card.  As I continued to create, I decided to dig out that card.  And, they're kinda different - but I'm sure you'll easily spot the design elements I carried over.  HOWEVER, it also reminded me that that CASEd card used ANOTHER Halloween stamp set from the Holiday Catalog.  So, again today, you're getting TWO different cards - I'm featuring the Etruscan Elegance Jumbo Wheel today!

The first card is the one I created for this blog post.  The layout may have been inspired by Kimberly, but the debossed card stock was inspired by Brenda Keenan's card from yesterday.  Seriously - why haven't I turned my paper over and used the debossed side before now?  Now I have twice as many embossing folders!!!  But, I'm getting ahead of myself.  This was originally supposed to be a Halloween card featuring the Etruscan Elegance Jumbo Wheel.  However, I rolled it in Crumb Cake ink on Crumb Cake card stock and it didn't coordinate with any of my Halloween DSP.  So, I decided to go for autumn.  I used the Orchard Harvest DSP on page 28 of the Holiday Catalog as my color palette inspiration.  I chose three of the colors for my "banners" - Island Indigo, Raspberry Ripple, and Lucky Limeade.  I embossed them using an assortment of embossing folders.  But then I needed a focal point - and that's where I got stuck for a bit.  That's when I turned to page 32 and remembered the Full of Blessings stamp set.  PERFECT!  I added another layer - embossed with another Holiday Catalog embossing folder and voila - a card that I adore!!!

Here are all of the supplies for my fall version:
- Full of Blessings Stamp Set (w-128078 or c-128081) - Holiday Catalog page 32
- Etruscan Elegance Jumbo Wheel (127868) - Holiday Catalog page 32
- Jumbo Handle (103661) - Annual Catalog page 6
- From My Heart Stamp Set (w-126555 or c-126557) - Annual Catalog page 139
- Very Vanilla, Soft Suede, Crumb Cake, Island Indigo, Lucky Limeade, and Raspberry Ripple Card Stock
- Watercolor Paper (122959) - Annual Catalog page 160
- Jet Black Stazon Ink (101406) - Annual Catalog page 157
- Soft Suede Classic Ink Pad (126978) - Annual Catalog page 156
- Lucky Limeade, Tangerine Tango, Soft Suede, More Mustard, and Crumb Cake Stampin' Write Markers
- Blender Pens (102845) - Annual Catalog page 178
- Labels Collection Framelits (125598) - Annual Catalog page 191
- Victoria Crochet Trim (118481) - Annual Catalog page 173
- Lacy Brocade Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (127819) - Holiday Catalog page 6
- Woodgrain Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (127821) - Holiday Catalog page 33
- Sqaure Lattice Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (119976) - Annual Catalog page 189
- Fancy Fan Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (127751) - Annual Catalog page 189
- 1-1/4" Square Punch (119865) - Annual Catalog page 183 (used for notching the Indigo, Raspberry, and Limeade Card Stock)

This second card is the card I CASEd from Kimberly (click here to view her original card).  I used my new Basic Black Classic Ink Pad to stamp the images and sentiment.  It doesn't tend to dry immediately so I sprinkled clear powder over it it and heat embossed it.  You can't see it - but the black is lightly heat embossed.  I kinda like the look.  I'm SURE this doesn't show up in the photo!!!  Here are all of the supplies I used:
- Toxic Treats Stamp Set (w-127898 or c-127901) - Holiday Catalog page 25
- Etruscan Elegance (127868) - Holiday Catalog page 25
- Jumbo Handle (103661) - Annual Catalog page 6
- Howlstooth & Scaringbone DSP (126906) - Holiday Catalog page 24
- Very Vanilla and Tangerine Tango Card Stock
- Basic Black and Crumb Cake Classic Ink Pads
- Sponge Daubers (102892) - Annual Catalog page 179
- Labels Collection Framelits (125598) - Annual Catalog page 191
- Clear Embossing Powder (109130) - Annual Catalog page 159
- Heat Tool (129053) - Annual Catalog page 159
- Antique Brads (117273) - Annual Catalog page 174
- A round punch of some sort to round the corners (sorry, I've forgotten which one I used!)

Stampin' Through the Holiday Catalog!

On Tuesday I posted that I was going to challenge myself to create something using every product in the Holiday Catalog.  Today is my first of maybe 40 or so posts in this series.  This challenge serves a bunch of different purposes:

A) I haven't scheduled my Annual Holiday Open House (yet) - so for now, we'll do it virtually.  I'll be sharing some original creations, some CASEd creations, and some swaps I've received.  And, that's pretty much what I'd have on display at a real, live Open House.  And, once I get through this challenge, I'll have even more projects to display whenever I do get it scheduled!

B) I overlooked MANY of the products in the Holiday Catalog when I was placing my first order - the new, Illuminate Glimmer Watermark Stampin' Pad, the Stampin' Dazzle Markers (they write on dark card stock!), Champagne Glimmer Paper, and the 1/2" Striped Satin Ribbon just to name a few.  Have you spotted all of those?

C) I think it would be beneficial to actually USE the products I buy!  (Silly, I know!)

D) I LOVE a challenge!

I sat down to start my challenge at the beginning of the catalog.  I actually already had a project created using some of the products.  I was excited that the first post could be SO easy!  Then I realized that it was a logistical mistake.  If I stamp a page a night, I wouldn't get to Halloween products until the middle of October since they don't really start until page 24!  That's just too late for you to order them when you fall in love!  So, I'll be hopping around a bit. My plan is to work through Halloween, then fall, the hit Christmas.  I don't own the Jewish Celebrations stamp set - and I'm not sure if I received a swap so that one could be a challenge!

Today's projects are both swaps I received at convention.  They're very similar so I decided to post them both!!!  Okay, you may be thinking that I've already failed my own challenge - that I didn't actually USE any of the products since I didn't actually create either project.  I actually have - I CASEd Ilina's card for a stamp club last month, but thought I'd post the original (it saves time since I don't know where mine went).  And, I've already used each and every product pictured tonight.  So, I haven't failed...yet!

Card One
The one up there at the top was created by Brenda Keenan.  She used one of those products I overlooked in the Holiday Catalog (1/2" Striped Satin Ribbon)!  Thanks Brenda!  Here are all of the ingredients Brenda used:
- Frightening Feline Stamp (w-128105) - Holiday Catalog page 26
- Delightful Dozen Stamp Set (w-122650 or c-122652) - Annual Catalog page 140
- Basic Black, Tangerine Tango, and Very Vanilla Card Stock
- Jet Black Stazon (I really don't know which ink she used, but that's what I recommend)
- Howlstooth & Scaringbone DSP (126906) - Holiday Catalog page 24
- 1/2" Striped Satin Ribbon (127837) - Holiday Catalog page 26
- Lacy Brocade Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (127819)- Holiday Catalog page 6
- Labels Collection Framelits (125598) - Annual Catalog page 191
- Modern Label Punch (119849) - Annual Catalog page 183
- Basic Rhinestones (119246) - Annual Catalog page 175

Card Two
This swap was created by my friend, Ilina Crouse.  She used a lot of the same supplies as Brenda, but there were a few extras in there that I thought I'd include it, too!  Here are the ingredients Ilina used:
- Border Banter Stamp Set (w-128927 or c-128930) - Holiday Catalog page 20
- Frightening Feline Stamp (w-128105) - Holiday Catalog page 26
- Howlstooth & Scaringbone DSP (126906) - Holiday Catalog page 24
- Basic Black, Tangerine Tango, and Very Vanilla Card Stock
- Labels Collection Framelits (125598) - Annual Catalog page 191
- Versamark Ink (102283) - Annual Catalog page 159
- Jet Black Stazon (I really don't know which ink she used either, but that's what I'd still recommend)
- Tangerine Tango Embossing Powder (123106) - Annual Catalog page 159
- NEW Heat Tool - it's quieter and has 2 het settings (129053) - Annual Catalog page 159
- 3/8" Basic Black Tafeta Ribbon (119962) - Annual Catalog page 173
- Scallop Edge Border Punch (119882) - Annual Catalog page 183

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.