The More Birds the Merrier

Today's Splitcoast Color Challenge (CC225) was to use Night of Navy, So Saffron, and Kraft. Since I had not used these sweet little birds from The More the Merrier Hostess Level 3 set, now was the perfect opportunity. With the new catalog going live tomorrow, I know that many of you will be earning your on-line rewards! Combine your orders with a friend or two and qualify for this set. For your convenience, I will have the new 2009-2010 Idea Book and Catalog available on this blog after 12:00 PM (Noon) Mountain Time. I know that we are all anxious to place our orders, but due to catalog transitioning, online ordering will not be available until after noon Mountain Time. Now, back to today's card. The sketch is quick and easy, and there are several stamp sets that can be substituted until you receive your own "The More the Merrier"!

• Prepare a standard card base from textured Very Vanilla card stock and score at the top.


• Layer with textured So Saffron.


• Cut a strip of Night of Navy textured card stock and punch the edge with the Eyelet Border Punch. Layer with So Saffron Grosgrain Ribbon. Attach to the card base as shown.


• Ink the "Birds" stamp from The More the Merrier with Basic Gray and stamp onto Very Vanilla. Color using a Blender Pen and the following inks: Melon Mambo (heart), Night of Navy (wings) and So Saffron (beaks). Use a Blender Pen and Going Gray Stampin' Pastel to create the shadowing below the row of birds. Mat onto Kraft and adhere to the Night of Navy strip.


• As a finishing touch, ink the "so happy to have a friend like you" sentiment from The More the Merrier and stamp onto Very Vanilla. Punch with the Large Oval Punch and layer on top of a Night of Navy Scalloped Oval, using a Stampin' Dimensional. Offset this onto a Kraft Scalloped Oval. Attach to the card base.

The Stampin' Schach Ramblings: Card making is like a steeplechase, with a variety of hurdles to jump. There are margins that need to be equal and straight. Stamps need to be evenly inked. Layouts need to be balanced. And the list goes on! In the case of blogging, the camera picks up details that I never seem to notice with the naked eye. I can't begin to tell you the number of times that I have finished a card and photographed it only to discover as I was cropping the print that something looked amiss. So back to the drawing board I would go, making changes and trying to salvage as much of the original card as possible. Did anyone notice that yesterday's card originally started with Turquoise Square Ice Brads? After looking at it in My Gallery for several hours, I decided to make a change. It now has Pink Circle Fire Brads. Although the Turquoise was beautiful in person, in digital they clashed with the Bermuda Bay Scallop Oval. But you know what? Each one of my mistakes is a learning experience. Don't let your mistakes get you down. Rare is the paper artist who has not made one. Even the most talented of designers have had to stamp a sentiment more than once, so I never feel badly about the two...or...three...or...Oh, alright...the six times I have had to re-ink a stamp. Instead embrace your mistakes for what they are...ways to help you grow in your card making skills!

Are you ready to earn Hostess Rewards? Consider these options: 1) Hold a catalog party...I will be happy to explain to you how you can do this! 2) Start an online Hostess Club! Contact me today, and I will share the details with you! And if you would love to receive your Stampin' Up! products at a discount, join me as a demonstrator today. I would love to have you join my group. With the new catalog complete with new products, plus an exciting press release that I will share with you tomorrow, could there be a better time to be a Stampin' Up demonstrator? Please Email Me today!

Your comments are very important to me, so please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!

Stamp Set: The More the Merrier (115322 Level 3 Hostess)
Ink: Basic Grey (109120), Melon Mambo (115656), Night of Navy (102977)
Card Stock: So Saffron Textured and Night of Navy Textured (108696---Rich Regals 12” x 12” Textured Assorted Pack), Kraft (102125), Very Vanilla (101650)
Tools: Eyelet Border Punch (113692), Scallop Oval Punch (114889), Large Oval Punch (107305)
Embellishments: So Saffron Grosgrain Ribbon (SAB)
Other: Blender Pens (102845), Stampin’ Pastels (105542), Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430)

Razzleberry Mojo for You

It's another Mojo Monday! Today's sketch was perfect for showcasing the rich beauty of Melon Mambo, Rich Razzleberry and Bermuda Bay. A snippet of Melon Mambo Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon, a sip of Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper, and the bling of Pink Circle Fire Brads complete the look of this card!

• Prepare a standard card base from Very Vanilla textured card stock and score at the top.


• Layer with textured Rich Razzleberry card stock.


• Cut a 3-1/8" x 3-1/8" square of Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper. (I selected the Melon Mambo "Small Squares" pattern.)


• Add a snippet of Melon Mambo Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon. (Tip: Since this versatile ribbon is two sided---polka dots on one side and plain on the other---a Mini Glue Dot was used to keep the Polka-Dot side showing.)


• Punch two strips of Melon Mambo card stock with the Scallop Edge Punch and adhere to opposite edges of the pattern paper.


• Ink a section of the "Floral Vine" image from the Thoughts and Prayers stamp set using Always Artichoke and Rich Razzleberry Stampin' Write Markers and stamp onto Very Vanilla card stock. Mat onto Melon Mambo, and adhere to the pattern paper base. The image block is now complete!


• Position and adhere the image block to the card base.


• Ink the "For You" sentiment from the Great Friend stamp set with Melon Mambo. Stamp onto Very Vanilla. Punch with the Large Oval Punch and adhere with Stampin' Dimensionals to a Bermuda Bay Scallop Oval. Position and adhere to the card base.


• For a touch of bling, three Pink Circle Fire Brads are added. Notice how well the Pink coordinates with the Melon Mambo and draws the eye to the gorgeous texture of the Rich Razzleberry card stock.

The new In-Colors are definitely going to be a staple in my Stampin' Up! arsenal this year. And this Mojo sketch is superb! Kudos to the Mojo Master who designed it. In the end, the In-Colors and the sketch were a perfect match for each other, resulting in a card which I will be proud to give.

Your comments are very important to me, so please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!

Stamp Set: Thoughts and Prayers (113252), Great Friend (113792)
Ink: Melon Mambo (115656---Available July 1st), Rich Razzleberry Stampin’ Write Marker (116329---In-Colors Assortment Set---Available July 1st), Always Artichoke Stampin’ Write Marker (105113)
Designer Series Paper: Razzleberry Lemonade (115675---Available July 1st)
Card Stock: Very Vanilla Textured (108693---Neutrals Assorted Pack), Rich Razzleberry Textured (115538---In-Colors Assorted Pack---Available July 1st), Melon Mambo (115320---Available July 1st), Bermuda Bay (115317---Available July 1st), Very Vanilla (101650)
Tools: Scallop Edge Punch (112091), Large Oval Punch (107305), Scallop Oval Punch (114889)
Embellishments: Melon Mambo Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115611---Available July 1st), Circle Fire Brads (109111)

Razzleberry Friend

Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper was designed to showcase the spirited new In-Colors. No one can argue that this paper is not spunky, lending its own Razzleberry flavor to any card that is crafted from it. And the new In-Color Polka-Dot Grosgrain ribbon is divine! Take yesterday's card, for example. Same sketch...same stamp set.

As much as I love Bella Bleu, I have a new friend in Razzleberry Lemonade! Here is the recipe to make your own Razzleberry Lemonade confection!

• Prepare a standard card base from Rich Razzleberry card stock and score at the top. Use the Corner Rounder on the two bottom edges.


• Select two selections from Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper and a strip of Crushed Curry card stock for layering. Use the Scallop Edge Punch on the Crushed Curry, and place it between the two patterned papers. Use the Corner Rounder on the bottom corners to mirror the card base.


• Add Crushed Curry Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon as illustrated in the photograph.


• Position and adhere the Razzleberry Lemonade pattern papers, with ribbon and scallop edge strip, to the card base.


• Ink the "Baroque-Style" stamp from the Friends 24-7 stamp set with Rich Razzleberry, and stamp onto Whisper White. Mat onto Rich Razzleberry and Crushed Curry. Position and adhere to the card base.


• Ink one of the "Small Circle" stamps from the Circle Circus stamp set with Rich Razzleberry and stamp onto Very Vanilla. Punch out using the 1/2" Circle Punch. Adhere this to a Pewter Build-A-Brad base, and attach the acrylic cover disk. Place in the lower right hand corner of the card.

What would I consider "Must Buys" from the new catalog? The In-Color Assorted Cardstock Pack (115315), In-Color Stampin' Write Markers (116329), Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper (115675) and one or two of the In-Color Grosgrain Ribbons would be good choices with which to begin. But if you are like me, you will want it all! The new catalog goes "live", July 1st!

Your comments are very important to me, so please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!

Stamp Set: Friends 24-7 (113218), Circle Circus (115778---Available July 1st)
Ink: Rich Razzleberry (115658---Available July 1st)
Designer Series Paper: Razzleberry Lemonade (115675---Available July 1st)
Card Stock: Crushed Curry (115319---Available July 1st), Rich Razzleberry (115316---Available July 1st), Whisper White (100730)
Tools: Corner Rounder (109047), 1/2” Circle Punch (104390), Scallop Edge Punch (112091)
Embellishments: Crushed Curry Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115614---Available July 1st) Pewter Build-A-Brad (109128)

Back to Bella Bleu

For the past few weeks, my focus has been on preparing sneak peeks of new stamp sets, In-Colors, and Designer Series Papers. As I was pulling out the Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper for yet another card, I spotted my package of Bella Bleu. Bella Bleu has always been a perennial favorite of mine. So I put my ideas for my new In-Color card on the back burner, and returned to my old friend for today's challenge, inspired by this week's Our Creative Corner sketch. But you know what? There really is a sneak peek of Circle Circus on this card. Can you find it? I'll give you the answer at the end of this recipe.

• Prepare a standard card base from Kraft and score at the top. Use the Corner Rounder on the two bottom edges.


• Three selections from Bella Bleu Designer Series Paper were then layered. The Scallop Edge Punch was used on the small Kraft colored pattern piece, which was selected to contrast the blue patterns. The Corner Rounder was used on the lower corners to mirror the card base.


• Ribbon was added as illustrated in the photograph. (Tip: I did not have a single snippet of navy colored grosgrain ribbon, which is what I wanted. Feeling rather industrious this morning I "dyed" my own, using Bashful Blue 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon and a Not Quite Navy Stampin' Write Marker. I then dried it with a blow dryer, and heat set it with an iron. I absolutely love how it turned out!")


• Position and adhere the Bella Bleu pattern papers to the card base. (Tip: I always adhere the layers to each other, and then adhere the complex as a single layer.)


• Ink the "Baroque" motif stamp from the Friends 24-7 stamp set with Not Quite Navy, and stamp onto Very Vanilla. Mat onto Not Quite Navy and Kraft. Position and adhere to the card base.


• And now for the sneak peek...Ink the one of the "Small Circle" stamps from the Circle Circus stamp set with Not Quite Navy and stamp onto Very Vanilla. Punch out using the 1/2" Circle Punch. Adhere this to a Pewter Build-A-Brad base, and attach the acrylic cover disk. Place in the lower right hand corner of the card. (Tip: With the Build-A-Brad set, you are never without a custom brad!)

It was refreshing to use one of the stand-by Designer Series Papers again. But you know what? I am wondering what the same sketch would look like with Razzleberry Lemonade. Guess what I will be serving up tomorrow!

The Stampin' Schach Tip of the Day: You don't have the right color of ribbon on hand? Don't despair. You can always create the color you need just like I did. Stampin' Write Markers can save the day!

Your comments are very important to me, so please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!
Stamp Set: Friends 24-7 (113218), Circle Circus (115778)
Ink: Not Quite Navy (103008)
Designer Series Paper: Bella Bleu (113974)
Card Stock: Kraft (102125), Not Quite Navy (101722), Very Vanilla (101650)
Tools: Corner Rounder (109047), 1/2” Circle Punch (104390), Scallop Edge Punch (112091)
Embellishments: ¼” Bashful Blue Grosgrain Ribbon (109029) dyed with a Not Quite Navy Stampin’ Write Marker (100059), Pewter Build-A-Brad (109128)

The Partridge Family

This morning, as I was getting ready to create a card, I happened to have a section of Tall Tales Designer Series Paper left from a previous project that was just crying out to me. "Pick me! Pick me!" it pleaded. The more I looked at this little piece of paper, the more I thought, "Why not?" I loved the scene that was depicted, with its Old Olive, Rose Red and So Saffron hues. And then I had an epiphany..."Let the paper speak for itself!" Thus, evolved this quick and easy card!

• Prepare a standard card base from Rose Red and score at the side. Round the corners with the Corner Rounder.


• Layer with Tall Tales Designer Series Paper. Round the corners to correspond to the card base. (Tip: I cropped the Designer Paper slightly to highlight the scene that I wanted to depict.)


• Ink the {friend to friend} sentiment from Teeny Tiny Wishes with Rose Red and stamp onto Small Stripes So Saffron paper from the Tall Tale collection. Punch out with the Word Window Punch. Mat onto a Rose Red Modern Label. Punch another Modern Label from the Small Stripes So Saffron paper. Cut off the ends, and mat behind the Rose Red Modern Label as illustrated in the picture. Position and attach to the card base with Stampin' Dimensionals.


• Select three Rose Red buttons from the Fresh Favorites II Collection and "thread" with snippets of So Saffron card stock. Using Mini Glue Dots, place these buttons as centers in randomly selected flowers.


• As a finishing touch, I used the Build-A-Brad set and the 1/2" Circle Punch to create a custom brad which mimicked the partridges in the tree. I then positioned this brad so that it appeared as another tree in the background.

Obviously this particular selection of paper would have been a perfect background for scrapbooking. However, with an almost twenty-year-old young man as the focus of my scrapbooking these days, I doubt that I would have used it for this purpose. This card is a different matter! I can hardly wait to send it out!

Your comments are very important to me, so please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!

Stamp Set: Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370---Available July 1st)
Inks: Rose Red (101778)
Designer Series Paper: Tall Tales (115678---Available July 1st)
Card Stock: Rose Red (102544), So Saffron (105118)
Tools: ½” Circle Punch (104390), Word Window Punch (105090), Modern Label Punch (116630---Available July 1st), Corner Rounder (109047)
Embellishments: Antique Brass Build-A-Brad (109108), Rose Red Buttons from Fresh Favorites II (107422)

Color Throwdown Cakes

One of the nice things about challenges is that they help us grow as artists. Sometimes they jump start our creativity, while at other times they move us out of our comfort zones. I feel that I do my best work with rich and earthy colors, as opposed to those of lighter and softer hues. So when Color Throwdown posted this week's color combination of Kraft, Baja Breeze, and Pink Pirouette, I was in a quandry. I love Baja Breeze, especially with Basic Black. But with Pink Pirouette and Kraft? I wasn't quite sure what to do! Remembering the many times that I have encouraged my students in the classroom to stretch and challenge their minds, I decided that I would stretch and challenge my "muse". I even added some "girly" glitter and swirly swirls to really move me outside of my creative box! Here's the recipe for "Color Throwdown Cakes":

• Make a standard card base from Kraft and score at the side.


• Layer it with Pink Pirouette that has been texturized using the Swirls Plate from Stampin' Up Backgrounds I and the Big Shot.


• Punch a Baja Breeze strip with the Eyelet Border Punch.


• Punch a Kraft strip with the Scallop Border Punch.


• Cut a strip of Dotted Baja Breeze Designer Series Paper.


• Wrap a Kraft strip with Striped Baja Breeze Ribbon and form a bow.


• Adhere all elements to the card base as illustrated.


• Ink the "Wedding Cake" stamp from Fun and Fast notes with Basic Brown and stamp onto Whisper White. Punch out using Nestabilities and the Big Shot. Color using Blender Pens and ink pads. (Since I did not have Baja Breeze and Pink Pirouette, I substituted Sage Shadow and Pretty in Pink, and used Sahara Sand for the pedestals and Certainly Celery for the leaves.)


• For a bit of Wedding Day sparkle, I added Dazzling Diamonds glitter around the edge of the image!

I hope that you have enjoyed today's slice of "Color Throwdown Cakes"!

The Stampin' Schach Tip of the Day: Are you all out of Baja Breeze and Pink Pirouette? Don't be afraid to substitute! In most instances, members of the same Stampin' Up! color families work well with each other. And if you are not confident in your own choices, try Stampin' Up!s Color Coach (105796). It features coordinating and complimentary color suggestions for the Stampin' Up! colors, as well as neutral and monochromatic color choices. At only $9.95, it is money well spent! And, if you have never participated in a challenge, I encourage you to give one a try! You may be surprised at what you can create!

Your comments are very important to me, so please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!

Stamp Set: Fun and Fast Notes (113500)
Inks: Basic Brown (104315), Sage Shadow (102532), Pretty in Pink (101301), Sahara Sand (105208)
Designer Series Paper: Baja Breeze
Card Stock: Kraft (102125), Very Vanilla (101650), Pink Pirouette, Baja Breeze
Tools: Eyelet Border Punch (113692), Scallop Edge Punch (112091), Stampin’ Up! Backgrounds 1 Texturz Plates (114512), Standard Texturz Impressions Pad (114614), Standard Texturz Silicon Rubber (114615), Big Shot (113439), Blender Pens (102845)
Embellishments: Dazzling Diamonds Glitter (102023), Baja Breeze Striped Grosgrain Ribbon

Razzleberry Lemonade with Cupcakes

In today's sneak peek of the versatile stamp set, The More the Merrier, we have cupcakes! I actually modified Splitcoast Sketch SC234 to accomodate a stack of these delicious goodies, which are frosted with a variety of new In-Color inks (with just a smidge of Certainly Celery)! Here's the recipe for Razzleberry Lemonade with Cupcakes:

• Prepare a 5-1/4" by 5-1/4" card base from textured Whisper White card stock. Layer with a selection of Melon Mambo print from the Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper collection.


• Ink the Cupcake stamp from The More the Merrier with Basic Black and stamp onto Watercolor Paper. (Note: You will need to mask certain cupcakes, and you will definitely need to use the Stamp-a-ma-jig!) Watercolor the cupcakes as you desire using a Blender Pen and the following inks: Melon Mamba, Rich Razzleberry, Bermuda Bay, and Certainly Celery. (Tip: I use the easy method of just touching the tip of your blender pen to the ink pad itself. This usually provides enough ink for small images.) Stamp a single cupcake of your choice to be used on the sentiment oval. Once again, let your creativity soar and color it any way that you wish!


• Add a Bermuda Bay wash around the perimeter of the cupcake block. To accomplish this I used a Sponge Dauber to apply the ink, and followed with an Aqua Painter.


• Mat the Cupcake block onto Melon Mambo followed by Bermuda Bay.


• Prepare two 2-1/8" by 1-1/8" reactangular blocks from Melon Mambo and mat onto Bermuda Bay. Attach to the Cupcake block as shown.


• Attach snippets of Bermuda Bay and Melon Mambo Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbons to the Cupcake block as shown. Position and adhere the Cupcake block with its attachments to the card base.


• Adhere Certainly Celery buttons from the Fresh Favorites I collection to the rectangular blocks as shown. Mini Glue Dots are just the ticket to get the buttons to stick. (Tip: For "thread", I used strips of Bermuda Bay.)


• Punch a large oval from Melon Mambo using the Large Oval Punch. Punch a scalloped oval from Bermuda Bay using the Scalloped Oval Punch.


• Ink the "Sweetest Ever" sentiment from The More the Merrier with Bermuda Bay, and stamp onto Whisper White. Punch out using the Word Window Punch. Mat onto the Melon Mambo oval followed by the Bermuda Bay scalloped oval. Attach to the card base as illustrated with Stampin' Dimensionals.


• For a touch of whimsy, add a cupcake to the sentiment.

The nice thing about these cupcakes is that you can make as many as you wish...they are calorie free, and go quite nicely with Razzleberry Lemonade!

Time is counting down, and July 1st will be here before you know it! If you would like to join my group and receive demonstrator perks and benefits, don't hesitate to contact me today! I would love to discuss what it means to be a Stampin' Up demonstrator with you!

Your comments are very important to me, so please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!

Stamp Set: The More the Merrier (Hostess Level 3 115322---Available July 1st)
Inks: Basic Black (101179), Melon Mambo (116656---Available July 1st), Bermuda Bay (115655---Available July 1st), Rich Razzleberry (115658---Available July 1st), Certainly Celery (105217)
Designer Series Paper: Razzleberry Lemonade (115675---Available July 1st)
Card Stock: Textured Whisper White (108693 Available in the Neutrals Assorted Pack), Melon Mambo (115320---Available July 1st), Bermuda Bay (115317---Available July 1st), Watercolor Paper (105019)
Tools: Stamp-a-ma-jig (101049), Scallop Oval Punch (114889), Large Oval Punch (107305), Word Window Punch (105090)
Embellishments: Melon Mambo Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115611---Available July 1st), Bermuda Bay Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115610---Available July 1st), Certainly Celery Buttons---Fresh Favorites I Collection (107421)

Rich Razzleberry Thoughts and Prayers

This year's new In-Colors are definitely versatile in the flavor and tone that they impart to a card. They can range from bright and playful to deep and regal, as we see with today's card, which features Rich Razzleberry. Definitely clean and classy in its design, this card highlights the beauty of the floral spray from the Thoughts and Prayers stamp set.

• Prepare a 5-1/2" by 5-1/2" card base from textured Very Vanilla and score at the top.


• Ink the "Floral Spray" from Thoughts and Prayers using Rich Razzleberry and Always Artichoke Stampin' Write Markers. "Huff" and stamp onto Very Vanilla card stock. Punch out using a scalloped rectangle Nestabilities and the Big Shot. Mat onto Always Artichoke followed by Rich Razzleberry. Round the corners of the Rich Razzleberry with the Corner Rounder.


• Ink the "Praying for Friends" sentiment from Thoughts and Prayers with Chocolate Chip and stamp onto Very Vanilla. Punch out using a smaller scalloped rectangle Nestabilities and the Big Shot. Mat onto Always Artichoke followed by Rich Razzleberry.


• Using the Scallop Border Punch, punch a strip from Always Artichoke. Using the Eyelet Border Punch, punch a strip of Rich Razzleberry.


• Adhere the above elements to the card base as illustrated in the photo.


• As a final touch, add a snippet of Rich Razzleberry Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon!

As you can see, the new In-Colors can be coupled with our old favorites! And speaking of old favorites, please make certain to check out the Last Chance lists at the top of the right sidebar! You can order from my website 24/7!

Your comments are very important to me, so please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!

Stamp Sets: Thoughts and Prayers (113252)
Ink: Chocolate Chip (100908), Always Artichoke Stampin’ Write Marker (105113), In-Colors Stampin’ Write Markers---Set of 6 (116329---Available July 1st)
Paper: Very Vanilla Textured Cardstock (108693---Available in the Assorted Neutrals Pack), Very Vanilla (101650), Always Artichoke (105119), Rich Razzleberry (115316---Available July 1st)
Tools: Big Shot (113439), Scalloped Border Punch (112091), Eyelet Border Punch (113692), Corner Rounder (109047), Nestabilities Scalloped Rectangles
Embellishments: Rich Razzleberry Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115613)

The More Mojo the Merrier

In celebration of Mojo Monday 92, we have another sneak peek at The More the Merrier and Christmas Punch. The More the Merrier is so versatile with its snowmen, pumpkins, birds and cupcakes, while Christmas Punch provides snowflakes as well as tags to punch. Both of these sets are Hostess Sets that will be available July 1. Contact me today if you are interested in hosting a workshop in order to earn these sets. Now how about getting some Mojo magic goin' with this merry little snow family?

• Prepare a standard card base from Rich Razzleberry, and score at the top.


• Layer with two selections from the Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper collection. Adhere Crushed Curry Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon at the interface between the two papers. (Tip: I placed the ribbon polka-dot side down so that it would not compete with the background paper that I had selected.)


• Ink the "Snowman Family" from The More the Merrier with Basic Gray and stamp onto Stampin' Up!s Watercolor Paper. Watercolor the background with Bordering Blue, Ballet Blue and Going Gray Stampin' Pastels and a Blender Pen. "Dress" the snowmen in the colors of your choice by touching the tip of the Blender Pen to an ink pad and picking up color this way. I selected the new In-Colors to give my family a rich, updated look!


• Cut out the image using a Scalloped Nestabilities Die and the Big Shot. Mat onto Crushed Curry followed by Rich Razzleberry. Adhere to the card base as shown in the photo.


• Ink the "Large Snowflake" image from the Christmas Punch set with Rich Razzleberry and stamp onto Very Vanilla. Punch out with a 1" Circle Punch and mat onto Crushed Curry. Finally mat the Crushed Curry square onto a Rich Razzleberry square which has been punched using the Scallop Square Punch. Adhere to the card at an angle. (Tip: I added rhinestones in the corner for just a touch of "bling"!)

With the heat index at 108 degrees this afternoon, it was fun to work a little snowman mojo! It's never too early to start working on fall and winter cards, and you will find that the new Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog are filled with marvelous new stamp sets, papers and embellishments to help you in this task! July 1st will be here before we know it!

Please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!

Stamp Set: The More the Merrier (Hostess Level 3 Available July 1st 115322), Christmas Punch (Hostess Level 2 Available July 1st 115366)
Ink: Rich Razzleberry (115658---Available July 1st), Bermuda Bay (115655---Available July 1st), Crushed Curry (115659---Available July 1st), Melon Mambo (115656---Available July 1st), Basic Gray (109120), Stampin’ Pastels (105542)
Paper: Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper(115675---Available July 1st) Rich Razzleberry (115316---Available July 1st), Crushed Curry (115319---Available July 1st), Very Vanilla (101650), Watercolor Paper (105019)
Tools: 1” Circle Punch (109046), Scallop Square Punch (112081), Ticket Corner Punch (107214), Nestabilities Scalloped Rectangles
Embellishments: Crushed Curry Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115614), rhinestones

Look Here Pop-Up Card

One peek inside tells you this is no ordinary card! Created from the Animal Stories stamp set and Tall Tales Designer Series Paper, both of which I just adore, this card features Stampin' Up!s newest Bigz XL die, "Pop-Up Look Here"!

What a great die to own if you are a gift card aficionado like myself! It can be easily customized for any occasion...weddings, graduations, birthdays, babies. The possibilities are endless! Are you ready to "Look Here" for today's card recipe?

Part 1. The Card Base

• Prepare a standard card base from textured Whisper White card stock and score at the top.


• Layer with the two striped selections from the Tall Tales Designer Series Paper collection.


• Adhere Soft Suede Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon at the interface of the two papers.


• Ink the "Giraffe" stamp from Animal Stories with Soft Suede and stamp onto Whisper White. Use the Corner Rounder Punch on opposite corners. Mat with Barely Banana, once again rounding opposite corners. Mat onto Old Olive, and adhere to the card base.


• Ink the "Happy New Baby" sentiment from the Fun & Fast Notes stamp set with Soft Suede and stamp onto Whisper White. Using Stampin' Dimensionals, layer onto a scalloped oval punched from the "Yellow Stripe" paper using the Scalloped Oval Punch. Layer this onto a Soft Suede Large Oval and adhere to the card base.
  

Part II. The Gift Card Insert

• Align a piece of 6" x 11" Old Olive card stock onto the Look Here! Bigz Die. Layer the die and paper between the extended cutting pads and pass through the Big Shot. Remove all excess paper from the cut out. Note: The small rectangle of paper at the bottom edge of the die is extremely important. Make certain that you do not lose it. Plus this is a very close fit, so make sure that you carefully line the paper up with the cutting lines.


• Because I wanted to "dress" this up, I punched the selected arrows again using Barely Banana. I then adhered them to the arrows that I wanted to highlight. I also lined the upper section of the die with pattern paper from the Tall Tales collection.


• Next you need to begin folding all of the score lines. Turn the piece over and add adhesive between the half-circles and fold this section over the middle score line.


• Pop the half circles through to hold the card. Next you are ready to fold the other score lines out. Fold the next one on the back up, and then flip to the front and fold the next remaining score line up.


• Before folding the side score lines, pop out the arrows and fold them on the crease line. You can now safely fold the side lines forward (down) without damaging the arrows. (Note: If the arrows become creased or bent, they will not "pop" correctly when you open the card.)


• This piece can now be added to the card. Make certain that you are adding the top of the insert to the top of the card. Place adhesive to the back of the top portion of the insert. Make certain that the 5/8" piece above the folded middle meets up with the center fold of the card base, while making sure that the folded sides of the top half of the insert are in the fold of the card base. (Tip: When adding the adhesive, make certain that you do not glue down the arrows.)


• Place adhesive on the back of the bottom section of the insert. It is easiest to actually fold the bottom half of the card base up to meet the insert.


• Next add a little adhesive to both ends of the tiny rectangular piece which was cut with the die. Fold into the shape of an "M" and align with the lower corner of the right-hand half-circle. Next squeeze the lower right hand arrow on to this. This will help to hold this arrow up when the card is opened. (Tip: When the gift card is added, make certain that all of the arrows are in front of the gift card.)


• To add even more interest, I cut out an elephant from the Tall Tales paper and adhered it to the lower arrow using a couple of Mini Glue Dots. I also slipped a piece of pattern paper under the arrow cut-out in the bottom panel.


• As a finishing touch, I cut a strip of elephants from the Tall Tales paper and affixed it as a border on the bottom panel.

Remember that you can decorate these inserts any way that you wish, and they don't necessarily have to hold gift cards. How about pictures of the Christmas tree with present popping out on the arrows? Or my favorite, a picture of the dog, with little bone, doghouses, or doggie dish cutouts on the arrows? Let your imagination run wild!

Please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Click here to access the Occasions Mini Catalog!

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!
Stamp Set: Animal Stories (116716---Available July 1st), Fun & Fast Notes (113500)
Ink: Soft Suede (115657)
Designer Series Paper: Tall Tales (115678)
Card Stock: Whisper White Textured (108693 Available only in the Neutrals Assorted Pack), Old Olive (100702), Barely Banana (102701), Soft Suede (115318)
Tools: Big Shot(113439), Extended Cutting Pads (113478), Stampin’ Up! Pop-Up Look Here (115966---Available July 1st), Scallop Oval Punch (114889), Large Oval Punch (107305), Corner Rounder (109047)
Embellishments: Soft Suede Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115612)

The More Pumpkins the Merrier

Today's sneak peek is from a Level 3 Hostess Set entitled "The More the Merrier". Containing an adorable snowman family, yummy cupcakes, darling birds and these sweet little jack-o-lanterns, this set is extremely versatile. The Designer Series Paper is from the Razzleberry Lemonade collection, which along with the Rich Razzleberry Polka Dot Ribbon and the Designer Label Punch, will be available July 1st. By the way, the matching brad was made using the Build-A-Brad kit! Let's decorate some jack-o-lanterns, shall we?

• Prepare a 7-1/2" x 4-1/4" card base from Handsome Hunter Textured Card Stock.
• Layer with purple paper from the Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper collection.
• Ink the "Jack-o-lantern" stamp from The More the Merrier with Basic Black and stamp onto Stampin' Up!s Watercolor Paper. Color by using the following Stampin' Pastels and a Blender Pen: Pumpkin Pie (of course), Old Olive, and Yoyo Yellow. Mat onto "Small Retro Flower" paper from the Razzleberry Lemonade collection, followed by Handsome Hunter. Make a vertical block from a coordinating selection of Razzleberry Lemonade, round opposite corners using the Corner Rounder Punch, and mat onto Handsome Hunter. Round the opposite corners of the Handsome Hunter mat also.
• Position and adhere the vertical block and image block onto the card base.
• Ink the "happy halloween" sentiment from Teeny Tiny Wishes (also available July 1st) with Dusty Durango and stamp onto Very Vanilla. Punch using the Word Window Punch. Layer onto Handsome Hunter which has been punched with the new Modern Label Punch. Add a snippet of Rich Razzleberry Polka Dot Ribbon, and adhere the sentiment and ribbon to the card base.As a final touch, prepare a designer brad by using the Build-A-Brad set. Simply punch a 1/2" circle from the Designer Series Paper of your choice. (I selected the "Retro Floral" so I could showcase the little flowers!) Adhere it to the brad base, add an acrylic bubble, and you have an instant "Wow" factor. I popped my brad into position with a Stampin' Dimensional.

If someone would have told me that Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper could be used to make a Halloween card, I probably would have said, "No way!" But the Rich Razzleberry, Dusty Durango and Crushed Curry hues certainly work for fall and Halloween. It is definitely a collection that I will want to keep on hand!

Please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Click here to access the Occasions Mini Catalog!

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!

Stamp Sets: The More the Merrier (Level 3 Hostess 115322---Available July 1st), Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370)
Inks: Basic Black (101179), Dusty Durango (115654); Stampin' Pastels (105542), Blender Pens (102845)
Designer Series Paper: Rich Razzleberry (115675)
Card Stock: Very Vanilla (101650), Textured Handsome Hunter (12” x 12” Rich Regals Assorted 108696)
Tools: Corner Rounder Punch (109047), Modern Label Punch (116630), Word Window Punch (105090), ½” Circle Punch (104390),
Embellishments: Pewter Build-A-Brad (109128), Rich Razzleberry Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115613)

Pheasant Details

During the past day, I have had several card makers ask how I achieved the awesome colors found on the background of yesterday's post, "Pheasant in the Field." Before moving onto a new card, I decided to share the watercolor technique I used in more detail.

Stampin' Pastels, Stampin' Write Markers, and Blender Pens were all that I needed for this effect. After masking the area where the pheasant was to be positioned, I established the horizon. I did this by touching the tip of the Blender Pen onto the Always Artichoke pastel. I then gave the illusion of a tree line in the background. Because I did not feel that I had enough definition, I outlined my mounds of trees using the thin tip of the Always Artichoke Stampin' Write Marker. To soften this line, I once again applied the Blender Pen.

To achieve the look of the sky, I used a Blender Pen and the Brocade Blue pastel. Because I was using Stampin' Up!s watercolor paper, I was able to "scrub" the color, giving the sky a natural, patchy appearance. The foreground utilizes Chocolate Chip and Close to Cocoa pastels and blender pens. I made it darker closer to the tree line and lightened up as I neared the bottom edge. Once again, scrubbing the colors gave a more natural appearance. When I finished the above steps, I wasn't quite happy with the end results so I added just a touch of Always Artichoke pastel with the blender pen to the lower left hand section of the foreground to break up the brown.

My next step was to remove the mask and stamp the pheasant image. Of course, for this step, I definitely had to rely upon the Stamp-a-ma-jig. Because I wanted to showcase the new In-Colors, I inked the stamp with Soft Suede and stamped away.

After researching the colors of ring-necked pheasants, I looked for Stampin' Pastel colors that would work for their natural coloring. I dipped my Blender Pen into Rose Red and proceeded to tint the feathers around the eye. Oops! Do you know what I forgot? Since Soft Suede is not waterproof, the Blender Pen began to smear the ink slightly. A close look at the photograph will reveal the proof of my "blender pen blunder". I should have used Basic Brown, but it was too late. At this stage, I moved to Plan B: pastels only. The breast of the pheasant is Bravo Burgundy, fading into Pumpkin Pie as we near the wings. Barely Banana was then brushed over the wings.

As I took one last look, I felt that the tree line was still missing something. As a final touch, I added the bare trees by using the fine tip of my Soft Suede marker. I also underlined the bottom of the pheasant and the tail feathers to make him "pop" a little more.

For all of you who emailed me with questions, I hope that this helps. So what's in store for tomorrow? How about a little sneak peek at the Level 3 Hostess gift, "The More the Merrier"!

Please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Click here to access the Occasions Mini Catalog!

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!
(For complete card)
Stamp Set: Autumn Days (115452---Available July 1st)
Inks/Markers: Soft Suede Ink (115657---Available July 1st), In-Color Stampin’ Write Markers (116329---Available July 1st), Always Artichoke Stampin’ Write Marker (105113)
Paper: Manchester Designer Series Paper (112464---Last Chance List), Textured 12 x 12 Very Vanilla Card Stock (106530), Dusty Durango---for button thread (115321---Available July 1st), Water Color Paper (105019)
Tools: Stamp-a-ma-jig (101049)
Other: Stampin’ Pastels (105542), Blender Pens (102845), Fresh Favorites II Buttons (107422)

Pheasant in the Field

Autumn Days is earning a place as one of my favorite stamp sets. This card was designed to incorporate the latest Splitcoast Challenge Sketch SC233, and is in direct contrast to my first Autumn Days card. If you want clean and simple, this set can deliver. On the other hand, if you are feeling a wee bit more creative, Stampin' Pastels and Blender Pens can lead you into the realm of Currier and Ives! Enjoy this recipe for Pheasant in the Field!

• Make a standard card base from textured Very Vanilla and score at the top.
• Layer with "Green Plaid" from the Manchester Designer Series Paper collection.
• Prepare a mask with the Pheasant stamp from Autumn Days. (Tip: Masks can easily be prepared from Post-It notes. Just stamp your image as normal on the face of the note, making certain that the sticky side of the note is under part of the image. Trim with paper snips, and you automatically have an easily positioned and removable mask.) Position and adhere the mask onto Watercolor Paper. Using Blender Pens and Stampin' Pastels prepare a background as seen in the photo. (Tip: I added a few leafless trees with my new Soft Suede Stampin' Write Marker.)
• When your background is complete, simply remove the mask. Ink the Pheasant image with Soft Suede, and stamp into the place vacated by the mask. Of course, for perfect placement, a Stamp-a-ma-jig is a must!
• Trim and mat onto Always Artichoke.
• The middle vertical block is created by matting the "Green Plaid" paper onto Always Artichoke.
• The final block is prepared by inking the "Bittersweet Vine" stamp from Autumn Days with Always Artichoke and Dusty Durango Stampin' Write Markers. "Huff" and stamp onto Very Vanilla. Mat onto Always Artichoke.
• Position and adhere the blocks as illustrated in the sketch.
• For a finishing touch, add an Always Artichoke button from the Fresh Favorites II Collection which has been threaded with Dusty Durango card stock. Pop it onto the card with a Mini-Glue Dot.

Since I needed a masculine birthday card, I inked a sentiment which I added to the card after the first photographs. I simply inked the "happy birthday" sentiment from Teeny Tiny Wishes with Dusty Durango and layered it onto "Green Plaid Manchester" and Always Artichoke. Notice that I used the Ticket Corner Punch on all four corners of each layer. I then popped it onto the card with a Stampin' Dimensional.

Click here to access the Occasions Mini Catalog!

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!
(For both versions of the card)
Stamp Set: Autumn Days (115452---Available July 1st), Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370---Available July 1st)
Inks/Markers: Soft Suede Ink (115657---Available July 1st), Dusty Durango (115654---Available July 1st), In-Color Stampin’ Write Markers (116329---Available July 1st), Always Artichoke Stampin’ Write Marker (105113)
Paper: Manchester Designer Series Paper (112464---Last Chance List), Textured 12 x 12 Very Vanilla Card Stock (106530), Dusty Durango---for button thread (115321---Available July 1st), Water Color Paper (105019)
Tools: Stamp-a-ma-jig (101049), Ticket Corner Punch (107214)
Other: Stampin’ Pastels (105542), Blender Pens (102845), Fresh Favorites II Buttons (107422)


Please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Crazy Weave

If you have been wanting to see all of the new In-Colors used on the same card, then this is your lucky day! The horizontal stripes are, from top to bottom, Dusty Durango, Soft Suede, Melon Mambo, Crushed Curry, Bahama Bay, and Rich Razzleberry. The weaving technique is quick, easy and fun! And just to show you how versatile the new In-Color Ribbon is, I have included a second photo at the end of today's recipe to show you the same card and the flip side of the Dusty Durango ribbon. Oh...the stamp is from Circle Circus!

• Prepare a standard card base from Basic Black.
• Cut two 1/2" strips of each of the new In-Colors. Lay out the horizontal strips, and then begin weaving in the vertical strips. As you weave, continue to push in place. Once the woven mat is complete, adhere to card stock and trim to size.
• Mat onto Whisper White and adhere to the card base.
• Dusty Durango Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon is adhered to the card base as shown.
• Ink the Circle Circle stamp with Basic Black and stamp onto Whisper White. Punch using the 1-1/4" Circle Punch. Color using the new In-Color Stampin' Write Markers. Mat onto a Melon Mambo circle scallop (prepared by using a small Nestabilities scallop circle die and the Big Shot). This is then popped onto a Bahama Bay scallop circle which was punched with the Scallop Circle Punch. Position and attach on top of the ribbon.

My husband actually selected the ribbon color and wanted it to be adhered Polka Dot side showing. I was actually leaning toward the solid side, but now I think he may be on to something. So we have decided to have a little fun. In your comments today, please leave a little blurb and let us know which you like best: Solid or Polka Dots!

Please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Click here to access the Occasions Mini Catalog!

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!

Stamp Set: Circle Circus (115778)
Inks: Basic Black (101179), In-Color Stampin’ Write Markers (116329---Available July 1st)
Card Stock: Dusty Durango, Soft Suede, Melon Mambo, Crushed Curry, Bahama Bay, Rich Razzleberry (These are sold separately or in the 36 sheet Assorted Pack 115315---Available July 1st)
Tools: Scallop Circle Punch (109043), Big Shot (113439), Scalloped Circle Die (Nestabilities)
Embellishments: Dusty Durango ½” Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115609)

Razzle Dazzle Mojo

Have you ever seen such gorgeous Designer Series Paper? Let me introduce you to Razzleberry Lemonade! What you are actually viewing are the flip sides of the same piece of paper. This card also features a sneak peek at the new Razzle Dazzle stamp set and incorporates two of the new In-Colors...Crushed Curry and Rich Razzleberry. The unique layout is this week's Mojo Monday Sketch (MOJO 91). Sit back, relax, and enjoy the Razzleberry Lemonade!

• Prepare a 4-1/4" x 7-1/2" card base from Whisper White.


• Layer with a selection from the Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper. I placed the lighter "Herringbone" on top and the darker "Figural Stripe" on the bottom. (Tip: Placing the darker selection on the bottom grounds the card.)


• At the interface of the two pattern papers I adhered Rich Razzleberry Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon.


• The floral image from the Razzle Dazzle stamp set was inked using the new In-Color Stampin' Write Markers. An Always Artichoke Stampin' Write Marker was used for the leaves. I used the "huffing" method to moisten the ink before stamping the image onto Whisper White. I then matted the image with Crushed Curry followed by Rich Razzleberry. (Tip: A large Circle Fire Brad in Pumpkin was added for just a touch of "bling" and to draw the eye to the image.)


• For the vertical block, I ran a piece of Crushed Curry through the Big Shot along with the Damask Texturz Plate from the Stampin' Up! Backgrounds I collection. I used the Corner Rounder on opposite corners, and matted onto Rich Razzleberry. Once again I used the corner rounder on the same opposite corners.


• The vertical block was positioned and adhered to the card base. This was followed by the image block.


• The "For You" sentiment from the Great Friend stamp set was inked with Rich Razzleberry, stamped onto Whisper White and punched out using the Large Oval Punch. Two scalloped ovals, one in Rich Razzleberry and one in Crushed Curry were punched using the Scallop Oval Punch. All three ovals were layered and popped onto the card with Stampin' Dimensionals. A small snippet of Crushed Curry Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon was positioned onto the card base prior to the adhering of the scalloped ovals.

I hope that you enjoyed your taste of Razzleberry Lemonade! Remember that the new2009-2010 Idea Book and Catalog will be released on July 1st. In the meantime, I will continue to provide you with sneak peeks of In-Colors, Designer Series Papers, and fantastic new stamp sets.

Click here to access the Occasions Mini Catalog!

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!

Stamp Set: Razzle Dazzle (116714---Available July 1st), Great Friend (113792)
Inks and Markers: Rich Razzleberry (115658---Available July 1st), In-Color Stampin’ Write Markers (116329---Available July 1st), Always Artichoke Stampin’ Write Marker (105113)
Designer Series Paper: Rich Razzleberry (115675---Available July 1st)
Card Stock: Whisper White (100730), Crushed Curry (115319---Available July 1st), Rich Razzleberry (115316---Available July 1st)
Tools: Big Shot (113439), Texturz Plates Stampin’ Up! Backgrounds I (114512), Standard Texturz Impressions Pad (114614), Standard Texturz Silicone Rubber Pad (114614), Large Oval Punch (107305), Corner Rounder (109047), Scallop Oval Punch (114889)
Embellishments: Crushed Curry Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115614---Available July 1st), Rich Razzleberry Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115613---Available July 1st), Circle Fire Brads (109110)

Please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Autumn Days

With summer just beginning, it may be difficult to focus our attention on autumn. However, I was so excited with the Autumn Days stamp set and the Autumn Harvest Rub-Ons that I just had to share them with you. I was especially impressed with how the new In-Colors, especially Dusty Durango, Crushed Curry and Soft Suede coordinate as a fall color palette! The inspiration for the layout was this week's Stamp Something Challenge, which allowed me to focus attention on this glorious pheasant!

• Prepare a 5-1/2" by 4" card base.


• Ink the "Pheasant" stamp from Autumn Days with Soft Suede and stamp onto Very Vanilla. Mat onto Crushed Curry.


• Layer the following card stock strips onto the card base as illustrated in the photograph: Soft Suede, Dusty Durango, and Crushed Curry. Notice that I used the Scallop Border Punch on the Crushed Curry.


• Position and adhere the Pheasant block.


• Add a snippet of Dusty Durango 1/2" Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon.


• Select the saying "A Note of Thanks" from the Autumn Harvest Rub-Ons, and using the stick provided, transfer it to Very Vanilla card stock. Use the Spiral Punch at the top, and the Corner Rounder Punch on the bottom corners. Mat onto Soft Suede. For extra interest, I added a Mini Library Clip to the upper left hand corner before popping it onto the card with a Stampin' Dimensional.

Being an Iowa gal, I could not pass by a stamp that featured a pheasant. In my part of the state, they are a common site along the country roadsides. This set, as well as the rub-ons, remind me of harvest time, crisp fall days, and Thanksgiving. Combined with the right paper, it is a set that can definitely be used to make masculine cards. I know with two men in my family, I will reach for it often!

The Stampin' Schach Tip of the Day: White space is an excellent way to emphasize a stamped image. Notice how the pheasant stands out? Try this when you want the stamped image to be the focal point. If you are not pleased with the results, you can always trim it down!

Click here to access the Occasions Mini Catalog!

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!
Stamp Set: Autumn Days (115452---available July 1st)
Ink: Soft Suede (115657---available July 1st)
Card Stock: Very Vanilla (101650), Soft Suede (115318---available July 1st), Crushed Curry (115319---available July 1st), Dusty Durango (115321---available July 1st)
Tools: Scallop Edge Punch (112091), Corner Rounder (109047), Spiral Punch (108341)
Embellishments: Dusty Durango ½” Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115609---available July 1st), Mini Library Clip (109857), Autumn Harvest Rub-Ons (115731---available July 1st)

Please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Lots of Bots

Today's sneak peek features the Lots of Bots stamp set and the luscious new In-Color "Melon Mambo". Do you remember a few posts ago when I was crying over the loss of Kiwi Kiss and Baja Breeze? Well, I have a secret to tell you...I absolutely LOVE these new In-Colors! Melon Mambo, as it name suggests, is a wonderful "watermelon-y" pink which pairs perfectly with Basic Black and Gray. Yummy!

• Prepare a standard card base from Whisper White. I layered this with a selection from Pattern Pack Designer Series Paper II, a Level I Hostess Gift.
• Ink the "Birthday Bot" from Lots of Bots with Basic Black and stamp onto Whisper White. Mat onto Basic Black and then Melon Mambo. (Tip: Use the Stamp-a-ma-jg for perfect placement. Since I see "crooked", my Stamp-a-ma-jig is a lifesaver!)
• Using the Melon Mambo Stampin' Write Marker, color in selected parts of the "Bot". Adhere to the card base. This is the first year that Stampin' Up! has offered Stampin' Write Markers in the In-Colors. How perfect is this?
• Layer Melon Mambo Grosgrain Ribbon over a strip of Melon Mambo card stock and adhere to the card base.
• Ink the "Binary Code" stamp from Lots of Bots with Basic Black and stamp onto Whisper White. Mat onto Basic Black. Position and adhere onto the Melon Mambo strip as illustrated in the photograph.
• And just that quickly, your card is done!

I added a cute little brad that I had left over from a scrapbook layout. I felt that it added just the right touch and gave dimension to the card. Stampin' Up! does include a "Bolts and Screw" stamp with this set, for a touch of whimsy.

The Stampin' Schach Tip of the Day: When designing a layout, I always take into consideration the personality of the stamp set. Lots of Bots is perfect for clean and simple layouts, and therefore would be the perfect choice in a card emergency. Kids and adults alike will appreciate its humor.

Click here to access the Occasions Mini Catalog!

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!
Stamp Set: Lots of Bots (115293---Available July 1st)
Ink: Basic Black (101179), In-Color Stampin’ Write Markers (116329---Available July 1st)
Designer Series Paper: Patterns Pack Designer Series Paper II (Hostess Level I Gift 114325---Available through June 30th)
Card Stock: Whisper White (100730), Basic Black (102851), Melon Mambo (115320---Available July 1st)
Embellishments: Melon Mambo ½” Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115611---Available July 1st)

Please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...

Animal Stories...Part 2

Animal Stories and Tall Tales...I can't think of a better combination! Elephants, giraffes and whales...Oh, my! What a contrast to the card posted yesterday, which featured the same stamp set. Whereas yesterday's card was rich and elegant, today's card is fun and vibrant! Not only are you getting a peek at what is fast becoming one of my favorite sets (Animal Stories), but you are also getting a peek at the Teeny Tiny Wishes set, which is also making its debut. Teeny Tiny Wishes consists of 24 different sentiments that covers everything from "Happy Retirement" to "Sweet Treats"...Versatility should be its middle name! Ready for another Animal Story?

• Make a 5-1/2" square card base from Old Olive card stock and score at the top. Using the Corner Rounder, round the lower right hand corner for interest.


• Layer the card base with "Elephant" paper from the Tall Tales Designer Series Paper. Turn up the lower right hand corner to highlight the flip side. (Tip: To draw attention to the corner, I added an Old Olive Brad and snipped out two of the tiny saffron elephants, positioning them so they are parading out from behind the paper.)


• Ink the elephant stamp from Animal Stories with Soft Suede, a new In-Color, and stamp onto Very Vanilla card stock. Ink the "Thinking of You" sentiment from Teeny Tiny Wishes with Soft Suede and stamp below the elephant. (Tip: For perfect positioning, I used the Stamp-a-ma-jig.)


• Mat the Very Vanilla image block onto Soft Suede, Old Olive, and Crushed Curry (another new In-Color). The Crushed Curry mat is asymmetrical, having been cut slightly wider on the right hand side, which was then rounded using the Corner Rounder.


• Soft Suede grosgrain ribbon was layered on top of the Crushed Curry on the right hand side, as seen in the photo. The image block was then positioned and adhered to the card base.
• Add an Old Olive Brad in the upper and lower right hand corners of the image block.


• Finally, cut a snippet of Crushed Curry grosgrain ribbon. Fold as shown in the photo and attach to the card using Mini-Glue Dots. Thread a sliver of Old Olive card stock through a button and place on top of the ribbon with glue dots. (I still had a Kiwi Kiss button left from the retiring Button Bouquet collection. Unfortunately these buttons are out of stock. But don't despair...Stampin' Up! is releasing a new button collection which contains Old Olive. This collection will be available for ordering on July 1st.)

Did you notice how the new In-Color Grosgrain Ribbon is reversible? One side is solid, while the other is dotted! And, just take a look at how richly colored the Tall Tales paper is!

If you have any questions about today's card, do not hesitate to email me. I will gladly offer advice and assistance. Hmmmm....I wonder what sneak peek I will feature tomorrow...

Click here to access the Occasions Mini Catalog!

Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies Now!

Stamp Sets: Animal Stories (116716---Available July 1st), Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370---Available July 1st)
Ink: Soft Suede (115657---Available July 1st)
Designer Series Paper: Tall Tales (115678---Available July 1st)
Card Stock: Old Olive (100702), Very Vanilla (101650), Soft Suede (115318---Available July 1st), Crushed Curry (115319---Available July 1st)
Tools: Stamp-a-ma-jig (101049)
Embellishments: Soft Suede Grosgrain Ribbon (115612---Available July 1st), Crushed Curry Grosgrain Ribbon (115614---Available July 1st), Old Olive Brads (106955---Earth Elements Collection)

Please feel free to leave me a comment. I would love to hear from you! Until next time...