Vintage Christmas Punch at OCC

I love Saturdays! Why? Because it marks another Our Creative Corner challenge! This week, the OCC gals are challenging us to create a card or project using something vintage or vintage inspired. The "Santa Stamp" from Christmas Punch was my choice for the day, especially since it could be used for the excellent sketch challenge at Penny's Challenges. Featuring the "Cracked Glass" technique, the little stamps were matted onto Petals-a-Plenty embossed Very Vanilla card stock and distressed. The Designer Series Paper, from the Christmas Jingle Simply Scrappin' collection, and the sentiment, from Grateful Greetings, are both reminiscent of a by-gone era. Here are my tips for creating "Vintage Christmas Punch"!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

Don't be afraid to try a new technique! Cracked Glass is easier than you might think. Just follow these steps:

Simply stamp your image onto card stock. I distressed the edges of my images with a Sponge Dauber and Chocolate Chip ink.



Using a Brayer, apply VersaMark ink to the image. Sprinkle with Glassy Glaze Embossing Powder.





Tap off the excess, and heat with a Heat Tool until the powder melts. Up to four layers of Glassy Glaze can be applied. To apply the extra layers, on small images like this stamp, more powder can sprinkled on while hot. For larger images, simply cool, add more VersaMark, and repeat the heating process.


Place the embossed image into the freezer and allow to cool completely. This will only take a few minutes! You are then ready to crack the image.





To emphasize the crackling, distress with a sponge dauber and ink.

There...wasn't that easy? Remember, if you ever have any questions about the techniques that I use, I am only an email away! And I would be remiss if I didn't tell you that I will be offering technique classes beginning in February. If you are in the Southeast Iowa or West-Central Illinois area, I would be happy to have you join me! I already have one section filled, so if you are interested in reserving a spot, please email me with your interest. More details will be released after the first of the year!

Important Reminders:

The next Pals Holiday Blog Hop is quickly approaching! Mark your calendar for November 10th, when the focus will be on Fall and Halloween! And don't forget to participate in the Pals Paper Arts "In the Pink" challenge and huge Blog Candy giveaway! One lucky participant will be randomly selected to receive over $100 worth of Stampin' Up! products!

Won't you please leave a comment for me today? I really do appreciate them. And as always, if you ever have any questions about my cards, please do not hesitate to email me. Until next time...

Please Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7!

Stamp set: Christmas Punch ( 115366---Hostess Level 2); Inks: Chocolate Chip (100908), VersaMark (102283), Old Olive (102272), Real Red (103133); Designer Series Paper and Card Stock: Christmas Jingle Simply Scrappin' kit (115696), Very Vanilla (101650); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Petals-a-Plenty Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (116824---Holiday Mini), Heat Tool (100005), Color Spritzer (107066), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Chocolate Chip Stampin' Write Marker (100071), Glassy Glaze Enamel Stampin' Emboss Powder (100477), Designer Label Punch (107590), Brayer (102395), Sponge Daubers (102845); Embellishments: Old Olive 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (109054)

Professionally Printed Digital Dasher

My professionally printed My Digital Studio "Dasher Card" arrived in the mail today. I had been looking forward to its arrival, so it was with anticipation that I eagerly zipped open the envelope and pulled it from its safe haven. There it was, pristine and beautiful! Since I wanted to share it with my husband, I placed it back into the cardboard shipping envelope. Awaiting his arrival from work, I placed the envelope on top of an accent table in my living room and went about my usual "I-am-home-from-work" routine. And what happened next was like a scene from a horror movie...

While the prim and proper school teacher was checking her email, oblivious to what was happening, danger lurked in the next room. Moving stealthily on four paws, butt wiggling in anticipation of the kill, lurked...Missy the Boxer! Up to the table she crept, and with great speedy-speed, she snatched the envelope...and what ensued became a game of cat and mouse. (Or should I say a game of "mom" and dog?) A carob chip doggie cookie and five minutes later, the envelope was back safely in my hands, with a few tooth dents and a bent side. But in true mother fashion, I simply ironed it! It's a little worse for the wear, but not too bad. As for Missy, she was playing one of her favorite games..."Hide the Treat". In this game, I hide a treat in an empty box, and she tears it open. I guess in her Boxer mind, the cardboard envelope was a box!

What you are viewing today is a digitally created Dasher card which was professionally printed through the Stampin' Up! sanctioned print services. Boy was that ever easy! Just a couple of clicks, and it was uploaded and paid for! For comparison purposes, here is the digital card, sans bending and toothmarks:

I know that this is a "busy" card, but I wanted to show off a variety of techniques. I added ribbon, a bow, a matted text box, a snowflake punch and a brad. While the bottom of the card uses Designer Series Paper, the top of the card is card stock which I "stamped" with snowflakes. If I want to "hybridize" this card, I can easily add a Real Red brad! How cool would that be?

I hope that you enjoyed your journey into "Digital Card Land". It was fun to play with layouts and colors while conserving my resources. And if you do not have your copy of My Digital Studio, there is still time to take advantage of my MDS special. I am offering an exclusive Stampin' Schach offer for customers who purchase My Digital Studio through me. Once I receive notification of your My Digital Studio purchase, I will send you a Stampin' Schach Gift Certificate in the amount of $20 to use on a future purchase from The Stampin' Schach. (Gift certificate must be redeemed by December 30th and is redeemable only through Ann Schach-The Stampin' Schach. Redemption details will be included with your gift certificate.) Click Here to order My Digital Studio (118108---$79.95). But hurry, this offer expires Midnight, October 31st (Central Time)!

So, let me know what you think of today's Digital Dancer! You know that I really appreciate your comments. They help me improve my card making. And remember, I am always willing to answer your questions about any card I make or technique that I use! Until next time...

In the Pink for the PPA

Thursday always marks the arrival of a new Pals Paper Arts challenge. However, today's challenge is different. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month, and this year marks the 25th anniversary of the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month coalition. Their official web site offers a variety of resources to women, including mammography center and cancer hospital locators, support organizations, event listings, and recipes for breast cancer patients. In light of this, the Pals Paper Arts Design Team is dedicating this challenge to the courageous women who are currently battling this disease, including our own Design Team Pal Kris Kilcoyne's mother, Karol Harris. We are challenging you to "Think Pink". Our only criteria is that your project features Pink! And one lucky participant will be randomly chosen from all of the eligible PPA14 entries to receive an "In the Pink" Prize Package valued at OVER $100!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• "I'll get you, my pretties!" What better way to frame a mat than with halfback pearls from the Pretties Kit? Just a drop of Crystal Effects adheres them into position with a minimum of fuss!
• Ooo-la-la! The shimmery "Ribbon of Hope" was achieved simply by using Micro Beads and Tombow Multi Purpose Adhesive. The key to this brilliant image was to use a slightly darker pink ink, in this case Regal Rose. This way, the color does not become too subtle by the application of the Micro Beads!
• Are you in to "Designer Labels"? Create your own with the...Designer Label Punch! Simply punch, cut into halves, and layer. The Modern Label Punch provides the perfect back drop, and the perfect place to add more halfback pearls.
• Consider the total package! The sentiment from Peace Within, with its 1920's-style font, pairs perfectly with textured Pretty in Pink and textured Going Gray, two colors from the era. The pearls and Eyelet Border Punch are made for each other. And, what better way to tie the entire card together than with an embossed background using the Quilted Diamond Texturz Plate, from the Stampin' Up! Perfect Details collection!

I know that you are anxious to hop on over to the PPA challenge site to view the other fabulous inspiration cards and the prize package. But first, don't forget that I do appreciate your comments! So please, leave me a comment before you go...let me know what you thought about today's card. And remember, if you have any questions, don't hesitate to email me. Until next time...



Please Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7!

Stamp Sets: Ribbon of Hope (115552), Peace Within (114312); Ink: Going Gray (103274), Regal Rose (105211); Card Stock: Whisper White (100730), Pretty in Pink textured (108695---Soft Subtles assorted), Going Gray textured (108693---Neutrals assorted); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Ovals Originals die (114525),Stampin' Up! Perfect Details Texturz Plate (115962), Standard Texturz Impressions Pad (114614), Standard Texturz Silicone Rubber (114615), Modern Label Punch (116630), Designer Punch (107590), Eyelet Border Punch (113692); Embellishments: Pretties Kit (109114), Micro Beads (104266), Pretty in Pink Taffeta Ribbon (109067); Other: Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Tombow Multi Purpose Adhesive (110755)

Bravo and Good Cheer

It's challenge time again at Scrapmaster's Paradise Color Combos! You know me...I am a pushover for a fun challenge, and the SPCC challenge is becoming a favorite of mine. This week the challenge was to use Bravo Burgundy, Ruby Red, and Creamy Caramel.

I must say that this was truly a challenge for me, especially in incorporating the Bravo Burgundy and Ruby Red. Plus, I really wanted to use my Good Cheer stamp set. However, part of the fun of a challenge is actually being challenged and moving outside of your comfort zone. So armed with card stock and my Circle Scissors Plus, I set out to conquer my Burgundy-Red-Caramel fears!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Is your Circle Scissors Plus giving you the "slip"? When using the Circle Scissors Plus, I always add a "smidge" of SNAIL to the paper I am cutting in order to keep it from slipping! And using your Circle Scissors Plus is one time when you don't want to sit down on the job.


• Encore! Encore! A little gold Encore pops embossing right off of the page. And don't forget to heat treat it in order to set the color!


• Stick with a theme! What was I thinking? Victorian, of course! The Good Cheer "St. Nick" is so Victorian. That is why I opted to use the Finial Press embossing folder as opposed to my old stand-by, Petals-a-Plenty. Finial Press is delightfully "country Victorian", and the perfect choice for this Santa from a by-gone era.


• Draw the eye to the image! Focusing on a specific section of the line art brings the attention right where you want it. In this case, the darker and more intense tinting of the holly wreath on St. Nick's head draws the eye right to the focal point of this card.

I would like to thank the ladies at Scrapmaster's Paradise Color Combo Challenge for another great challenge, and I especially want to thank them for selecting my "Really Rusty Crushed Artichoke" card as a Top Five contender this past week. I am truly honored! And speaking of great challenges, don't forget the Pals Paper Arts' Breast Cancer Awareness "Pink Challenge and Pink Prize Package Giveaway" on Thursday, October 29th. The Design Team has collected a fantastic array of PINK Stampin' Up! products that will be awarded to one lucky participant in PPA14. Uploading of projects can begin on Thursday!

Important Information about The Stampin' Schach Open House

Don't forget the Open House on November 7th from 1:00 to 4:00! If you are in the Southeast Iowa or Western Illinois area, this is your opportunity to drop in and say "Hi!". There will be demonstrations, Make and Takes, free gifts for everyone and a drawing for a door prize! Please email me for more details.

Have your ordered your My Digital Studio yet? Remember my special...a $20 gift certificate redeemable through The Stampin' Schach with your purchase of MDS through me! Click Here to view one of my favorite My Digital Studio scrapbook page.

I hope that you enjoyed my card today. I am not kidding when I say that it did indeed present a challenge. And as always, I love to read your comments. Plus, if you ever have any questions about the products that I use or the cards that I create, I am just an email away! Until next time...

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7!

Stamp Set: Good Cheer (115326); Inks: Basic Brown (104302), Watercolor Pencils (101879), Blender Pens (102845), Bordering Blue (102265), Encore Gold (101017); Card Stock: Creamy Caramel (103220), Bravo Burgundy (105214), Ruby Red (102259), Very Vanilla (101650); Designer Series Paper: Patterns Pack Designer Series Paper III (116234---Hostess Level 1); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Stampin' Up! Finial Press Embossing Folder (115963), Circle Scissors Plus (112530), Glass Mat (112531); Embellishments: Very Vanilla 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (109055), Bravo Burgundy 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109053), Jumbo Eyelets (108431---Antique Brass)

Special Pals Paper Arts Challenge

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and in recognition of this, the Pals Paper Arts design team is sponsoring a special "In the Pink" Breast Cancer Awareness Challenge: Simply upload your PINK card or project on the Pals Paper Arts website beginning Thursday, October 29. Participants in the PPA Challenge (PPA14) will have a chance at winning a fabulous collection of pink Stampin' Up! products. It is perfectly OK to start your pink projects now. However, do not begin uploading to the PPA site until Thursday, our regular challenge day.

Breast cancer has personally touched several of us on the PPA Design Team. Pal Kris Kilcoyne's mother is currently battling the disease and one of my very close teaching friends is a breast cancer survivor. This summer, I had my own breast cancer scare as my annual mammogram revealed a suspicious area. I was called and told that I needed to come in for more pictures, which is really not that uncommon. However, my grandmother was a breast cancer victim, so the fear that I will be diagnosed with it is always lurking in the back of my mind. My family breathed a collective sigh of relief when the second mammogram was clear. I cannot stress the importance of monthly self-checks and screenings.

So, get those cards ready for Thursday! I know that my card is ready and waiting. It is with love that I will be dedicating it to not only to the memory of my grandmother, but to all who have been affected by breast cancer...

{A special "hello" to the Washington gals: I really enjoyed meeting you Sunday! I am so looking forward to seeing you again when technique classes begin after the first of the year! Remember, I am only an email away if you have any questions or if you need to order more Stampin' Up!}

And in case you have wondered "Where are the cards?", it's the end of first quarter! I have dealt with grading tests and calculating grades! But things will be returning to normal as second quarter begins. I am so looking forward to creating and sharing with you! Until next time...

Really Rusty Crushed Artichoke

I have discovered a "new-to-me" color challenge...Scrapmaster's Paradise Color Combo Challenge. This week a trio of colors were featured: Really Rust, Crushed Curry, and Always Artichoke. Since these colors just cry out "Fall", the Autumn Splendor stamp set seemed the perfect choice to select. Of course, Sponge Daubers and my trusty Linen Thread completed the distressed effect I wanted to achieve. How about joining me in some "Really Rusty Crushed Artichoke"?

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Feel the warmth! Texture and warm colors are made for each other. With the Big Shot, you can achieve texture in the blink of an eye. The Finial Press Embossing Folder and Always Artichoke card stock were the perfect pair, as were Really Rust and the Distressed Texturz Plate. The result is a fabulously embossed card base and accent layer.


• In distress? SOS (Spritz or Sponge)! An Always Artichoke Stampin' Write Marker and the Color Spritzer Tool soften the Very Vanilla backgrounds, as does Soft Suede ink and a Sponge Dauber.


• Delightfully different! Linen Thread is used to create the cross-stitching and the blanket-style stitch that grace the horizontal mat. Of course, the Paper Piercer and Template are a must for evenly spacing the holes.


• Sometimes it's hip to be square, but it doesn't hurt to be well-rounded either! Opposite corner treatments provide visual impact for the image mat. The Corner Rounder and Ticket Corner Punch mix it up. Two Vintage Brads and Hemp Twine complete the embellishments.


• Blender Pens dabbed in inks can be used to quickly color in the Autumn Splendor "Oak Leaf". The resulting hues are soft and a striking contrast against the deeply embossed card base.

Challenges are always inspirational to me, and allow me to jump start my creativity. If you are in the mood for a color challenge, I would encourage you to visit the Scrapmaster color challenge site. And, if you have not played at the Pals Paper Arts yet this week, we are hosting an "Anything But a Card" challenge. I have really enjoyed viewing all of your creative projects so far, and look forward to seeing many more! Speaking of looking forward, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the PPA will be offering a huge PINK prize package on October 29th. This is a phenomenal collection of pink and inspirational Stampin' Up! items provided by the PPA Design Team members. You will not be disappointed! Think Pink!

And remember, I am offering a $20 gift certificate redeemable through The Stampin' Schach with your purchase of My Digital Studio. Click Here for more details.

I appreciate your patience this week as I attended to end-of-the-quarter paper grading and grade calculations. It's hard to believe that the school year is already 1/4 over! Second quarter will just fly by as we celebrate Thanksgiving and the holiday season! Please leave me a comment and let me know what you thought about today's card. Of course, I appreciate your comments and look forward to reading them. And don't hesitate to email me with any questions that you might have about any of the techniques or products that I have used. Until next time...

Please Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7!

Stamp Sets: Autumn Splendor (116503), Grateful Greetings (116511---Holiday Mini); Inks: Really Rust (102549), Crushed Curry (115659), Always Artichoke (105219), Chocolate Chip (100908), Basic Brown (104315), Always Artichoke Stampin' Write Marker (105113); Designer Series Paper: Patterns Pack Designer Series Paper III (116234---Hostess Level I; Card Stock: Always Artichoke (105119), Crushed Curry textured (115538---In-Color assorted), Really Rust textured (108697---Earth Elements assorted); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Finial Press Embossing Folder (115963), Distressed Texturz Plate---Texturz Plate Kit #4 (114531), Corner Rounder (109047), Ticket Corner Punch (107214), Large Oval Punch (107305), Paper Piercer (116631), Mat Pack (105826), Blender Pens (102845), Sponge Dauber (102892); Embellishments: Linen Thread (104199), Hemp Twine (100982); Vintage Brads (109109)

Boxes, Baskets and Bags, Oh My

It's Pals Paper Arts day! This week our challenge is "Anything But a Card". Since one of my goals this year is to "be prepared" for the holiday season, I am getting a head start on preparing some gift packaging options. Of course, packaging those special little gifts is as easy as one-two-three with the Big Shot and a collection of Bigz dies. The basket was prepared using the Pillowbox die, the rectangular box is the Box #2 die, and the gift bag is none other than the Stampin' Up! Fancy Favor Bigz XL die! Whisper White card stock was quickly zipped through the Big Shot with the Petals-a-Plenty Textured Impressions Folder and adhered to Old Olive textured card stock. Jumbo Snowflakes, punched out in my favorite non-traditional holiday colors of Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive and Taken with Teal, were attached with a single Clear Rhinestone Brad. This trio is just the perfect size for Santa to package gift cards, jewelry, or the keys to a new car! (Hey...It never hurts to dream!)

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• "KISS" it! In other words, Keep It Simple, Sweetie! With so much texture, embellishments for these packages do not need to be elaborate. A simple snowflake and brad look elegant and classy, but not overly done.


• It's all in the details! Why settle for a plain handle on your pillowbox basket when an embossed handle adds so much more?


• Think outside the box...or in this case, bag! Adding a wide embossed handle to the Fancy Favor bag is just the "Wow" factor this little gem needed. And speaking of gems, a large Clear Rhinestone Brad is the perfect "bling" and serves as a closure.

I love making boxes and bags using the Big Shot. The pillowbox basket is one of my favorites! Splitcoast featured the basket a few weeks ago, and I made the Halloween version based on their design. To view the tutorial on how to make your own Pillowbox Basket Click Here. Trust me...it's quick and easy!

And don't forget that on October 29th, Pals Paper Arts will be hosting a special challenge in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness month. We will be offering a huge PINK prize package to one lucky participant. Think PINK!

Are you ready to see what the other Pals Paper Arts Design Team members have created for you? I know that you will not be disappointed! But before you say good-by, you know how much I love your comments and questions! They are among my favorite things, along with chocolate, puppies, and crisp fall days! Until next time...

Please Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7!
Card Stock: Whisper White (100730), Old Olive textured (108697...Earth Elements assorted), Rich Razzleberry (115316), Taken with Teal (101584); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Extended Cutting Pad (113478), Pillow Box Bigz Die (113466), Stampin Up! Fancy Favor Bigz XL Die (115965), Box #2 Bigz XL Die (114518), Jumbo Snowflake Punch (116628), Petals-a-Plenty Textured Impressions Folder (116824---Holiday Mini); Embellishments: Clear Rhinestone Brads (113144)

Cherish Digital Scrapbook Page

You know, a girl could get spoiled mighty quickly with My Digital Studio. Tonight I created three scrapbook pages and a holiday card in far less time than it would have taken me to create a card the "old-fashioned" way! What I decided to share with you was a layout which I created instead of a "Designer Page". I wanted to create a page which was masculine, and one in which the elements did not detract from the picture or the journaling. There are things that I would like to change to see if I like the results any better, such as moving the "Baroque Flourish" to the front of the picture. And I certainly can. However, I spent so much time having fun with my new "toy", that time got away from me. I will make my changes tomorrow evening, but right now two dozen lab reports are calling my name! It's going to be a late night at The Stampin' Schach!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Don't overlook the journaling! Every picture has a story to tell. In this case, I wanted to convey the love between a young man and his dog.
• Experimentation isn't just confined to the lab! With My Digital Studio, you can change colors and add elements to your heart's content! I started out with a Really Rust mat, and once had flowers, buttons and bows adorning my layout. There was a flourish here, and a flourish there. Talk about over-done! But as easy as it was to add these elements, it was just as easy to remove them. Which brings us to our final tip...
• Less can be more!

What am I planning on changing with this layout? I plan on moving my flourish to the front and changing the journaling font. I had originally selected a font which coordinated with the "Cherish" sentiment. However, it did not show up well on the blog, so I switched to the current font. Tomorrow I will convert it back. I love the fact that I can experiment without using up my resources. In the case of cards, how wonderful it is to be able to try out an embellishment or a color combination before committing it to paper! To watch a quick video about My Digital Studio, please Click Here!

The Stampin' Schach Offer:

Don't forget my Stampin' Schach offer. I am impressed with My Digital Studio, and I want you to have the chance to enjoy it, too. NOW through October 30th, I am offering an exclusive Stampin' Schach offer for customers who purchase My Digital Studio through me. Once I receive notification of your My Digital Studio purchase, I will send you a Stampin' Schach Gift Certificate in the amount of $15.00 to use on a future purchase from The Stampin' Schach. (Gift certificate must be redeemed by December 30th and is redeemable only through Ann Schach-The Stampin' Schach. Redemption details will be included with your gift certificate.) Click Here to order My Digital Studio (118108---$79.95) now!

If you have any questions about My Digital Studio, please do not hesitate to email me. And please let me know what you think about today's digital scrapbook page. I really do appreciate your feedback. And if you are in the Southeast Iowa or Western Illinois area, don't forget my Fall Open House November 7th. Space is limited, so reservations are necessary. Email me today to reserve your spot. Until next time...

Young Man with a Horn MDS Page

Welcome to my first attempt at using My Digital Studio! Scrapbooking has always been a passion of mine...I have the albums to prove it! My son hated it when he would bring his friends over, and out came the scrapbooks. More than once, his girlfriends and I would end up "scrapping" and watching a "chick flick". Through the years I have created some fantastic layouts. I would spend many hours (and lots of money) in my quest to create the perfect pages. Therefore, when Stampin' Up! announced the development and release of My Digital Studio, I must say I was quite skeptical. However, curiosity got the best of me. Like the good little Stampin' Up! demonstrator I am, I purchased a copy as soon as it became available to purchase. I have no idea why it has taken me this long to begin playing with it. If I only knew a month ago what I know now, I would have torn into the wrappings quicker than...quicker than...well, as quickly as a lady of my age physically can!

The layout which you are viewing is a pre-designed layout. When I saw the colors, I knew that this was the one. All I had to do was just add the picture! Does it get any easier? I also created three other layouts, which I designed myself. However, I just loved the look of this picture of Brady, taken during the fall of 2007. He was warming up for a marching band competition, and my Canon and I just happened to be in the right spot at the right time!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Great layouts begin with great pictures! No matter how hard you try, it is difficult to get the look you want if the quality of the picture is lacking.
• Let the colors of your photograph guide you in the selection of your layout colors.
• And if you prefer the look of dimension on your paper, all elements in My Digital Studio are true to size. If I wanted to, I could add the button and brad after printing!

The Stampin' Schach Special Offer!

I am impressed with My Digital Studio. It truly is easy to use! And, Stampin' Up! is committed to educating both demonstrators and customers in its use. To watch a quick video about My Digital Studio, please Click Here!

I am so sure that you will love it that I am offering a limited time offer. NOW through October 30th, I am offering an exclusive Stampin' Schach offer for customers who purchase My Digital Studio through me. Once I receive notification of your My Digital Studio purchase, I will send you a Stampin' Schach Gift Certificate in the amount of $15.00 to use on a future purchase from The Stampin' Schach. (Gift certificate must be redeemed by December 30th and is redeemable only through Ann Schach-The Stampin' Schach. Redemption details will be included with your gift certificate.) Click Here to order My Digital Studio (118108---$79.95) now!

Important Pals Paper Arts Announcement

Want to be in the PINK? In celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Pals Paper Arts will be hosting a special challenge on October 29th. Will you be the winner of a very special PINK prize package? I will be releasing more details in the upcoming days! And if you have yet to participate in this week's challenge, there is still plenty of time.

I am anxious to hear what you think about my first ever digital creation. You know how I love your comments. And if you want the straight scoop about My Digital Studio, don't hesitate to email me. Until next time...

Blushing at the Handsome Shadow

This week, the gals at Our Creative Corner are treating us to a color challenge: Handsome Hunter, Blush Blossom, Sage Shadow and Soft Suede. What a quartet to work with! Of course, one of the reasons that I love the OCC challenge is exactly this...they truly force me out of my comfort zone. So armed with card stock and designer paper, I set out to create a card utilizing these colors...a card that I have entitled: "Blushing at the Handsome Shadow over at the OCC".

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Stuck in the middle? Your focal image does not always need to be centered. With this card, I have offset it to the right to switch it up just a little.


• Develop the theme! In this case, I focused on "Dots" and "Scallops". A cohesive theme makes it possible to mix and match designer series papers without the end product looking too busy. In this case, we have "Polka Dot Soft Suede" from the Soft Suede Patterns Designer Series Papers paired with Dotted Sage Shadow from the Nouveau Chic collection.


• Dots are further developed by paper piercing the Blush Blossom Scalloped Oval and the Blush Blossom Scallop Edge.


• Don't forget the special touches! The Soft Suede 1" Circle, which is serving as the center of the Folded Flower, is enhanced by the addition of a Clear Button which has been threaded with a snippet of Blush Blossom card stock. The dotted side of Soft Suede Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon is the perfect compliment to the Soft Suede pattern paper.


• Hellooo! Dare to be different! Who says that you have to stamp your sentiment on white or vanilla? Don't you just love the look of the "Hello" sentiment from Pendant Park stamped in Soft Suede ink onto Blush Blossom card stock?

If you love challenges, don't forget to visit the challenge that is nearest and dearest to my heart, the Pals Paper Arts challenge! Pal Margaret Moody has developed a wonderful sketch for you this week. Remember that not only are challenges fun, they also help us hone our craft!

Reminder:

If you live in the Southeast Iowa or Western Illinois area and would like to attend my Stampin' Up! Open House on Saturday, November 7th from 1:00 to 4:00, please email me today. Technique demonstrations will include watercoloring with blender pens, using the Color Spritzer, and constructing a pillowbox basket. You will create two holiday cards using the Delightful Decorations and Patterned Pines stamp sets. In addition, we will construct a third card in under ten minutes using the Petals-a-Plenty Embossing Folder and Jumbo Snowflake Punch! All attendees will receive a free gift and light refreshments will be served. And, if you book a workshop with me that day, you will also receive a surprise from the "Book to Look" bucket!

I had a great time creating today's card. I hope that in some way I may have inspired you to sneak outside your own comfort zone and that you have benefited from my Stampin' Schach Tips. As always, I love your comments, so please say "hello" before you leave. And remember, if you ever have any questions about any card I create or techniques that I have used, please feel free to email me. Until next time...

Please Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! Supplies 24/7!
Stamp Set: Pendant Park (115456), Ink: Soft Suede (115657); Designer Series Paper: Nouveau Chic (115671), Soft Suede Patterns (115688); Card Stock: Blush Blossom (103318), Soft Suede (115318), Handsome Hunter (105122), Very Vanilla (101650); Tools: Small Oval Punch (107304), Large Oval Punch (107305), Scallop Oval Punch (114889), Paper Piercer (116631), Scallop Edge Punch (112091), Big Shot (113439), Folded Flower Bigz XL Die (115970), Stampin Dimensionals (104430), Mini Glue Dots (103683); Embellishments: Clear Buttons (105447), Soft Suede Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115612)

There's "Snow Buddies" Like My Buddies at the PPA

Whee! It's Pals Paper Arts challenge day! This week we have a wonderful sketch challenge featuring the design work of talented Pal, Margaret Moody. I loved this sketch as it allowed me to showcase the Snow Buddies Hostess Level 2 stamp set from the Holiday Mini Catalog.

Since I can hardly wait to use this sketch again, I am sure that you will be seeing it here at the Stampin' Schach in the near future!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Snips and Tips! Paper Snips are a must-have for any papercrafter! The Stampin' Up! snips are sharp to the very tippy-tip, making them perfect for cutting into tight spaces and around snowmen noses!


• Don't be embarrassed about embossing! I do it all the time. The Taken with Teal circle, cut with the Circle Scissors Plus, was just too "teal" until snow flurries softened it. And all it took to create these flakes was a little VersaMark, White Embossing Powder, and a Heat Tool!


• Daubers to the rescue! I further softened the Taken with Teal circle by using a Sponge Dauber and Whisper White Craft Ink. Depth and definition were given to the Scallop Circle snow drifts with a smidge of Going Gray ink added with a...Sponge Dauber! I use them on almost every card!


• Look for thematic elements! In this case, the central circle in the layout set the theme. I elected to use the "Circles" pattern from the Holiday Lounge Designer Series Paper collection, the Scallop Circle Punch, and the Scallop Edge Punch because of the circles. Even the roly-poly Snow Buddies repeat the circular theme!


• Grateful for the Greetings! Just because it's there doesn't mean you have to ink it up! I wanted just a large plain "Greetings" sentiment. Since I didn't have one, I inked up only the "Greetings" portion of the "Grateful Greetings" sentiment from the stamp set of the same name.

I loved creating this card for you, and I hope that it serves as an inspiration as you create your card for this week's PPA challenge. So scoot on over to the PPA and see what my fellow Design Team members have created for you. After all, there's "Snow Buddies" like my buddies over at the PPA! But wait...don't forget to leave a comment before you head out! You know how much I appreciate your input and your questions! Until next time...

Please Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7!

Stamp Set: Snow Buddies (116505---Hostess Level 2 Holiday Mini), Grateful Greetings (116511); Inks and Markers: Jet Black StazOn (101406), VersaMark (102283), Whisper White Craft (101731), Going Gray (103274), Dusty Durango and Rich Razzleberry Stampin' Write Markers (116329---In-Colors Assorted), Basic Black Stampin' Write Marker (100082), Ruby Red Stampin' Write Marker (100075); Designer Series Paper: Holiday Lounge (115676); Card Stock: Sahara Sand (105328), Taken with Teal (101584), Ruby Red (102030), Whisper White (100730); Tools: Scallop Circle Punch (109043), Scallop Border Punch (112091), Modern Label Punch (107590), Circle Scissors Plus (112530), Glass Mat (112531); Heat Tool (100005), Sponge Dauber (102892); Embellishments: Tempting Turquoise 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109038), White Stampin' Emboss Powder (109132)

Stampin' Up! Deal of the Week...and More

As many of you know, throughout the month of October, Stampin' Up is offering all-new Deals of the Week! This week’s Deals of the Week features two Bigz dies and an Embosslit. To take advantage of this offer, order on-line today! Offer expires October 19th at 9:50 AM (MT).

Item # 115691 Perfect Setting Bigz XL Die Regularly $42.95 Sale Price $25.49

Item # 116760 Pop-Up Three Tier Cake Bigz XL Die Regularly $39.95 Sale Price $25.49

Item # 114515 Flower Burst Embosslit Regularly $11.95 Sale Price $5.99

The Stampin' Schach Open House

You are invited! If you live in the Southeast Iowa or Western Illinois area and would like to attend my Stampin' Up! Open House on Saturday, November 7th from 1:00 to 4:00, please email me today. Technique demonstrations will include watercoloring with blender pens, using the Color Spritzer, and constructing a pillowbox basket. You will create two holiday cards using the Delightful Decorations and Patterned Pines stamp sets. In addition, we will construct a third card in under ten minutes using the Petals-a-Plenty Embossing Folder and Jumbo Snowflake Punch! All attendees will receive a free gift and light refreshments will be served. And, if you book a workshop with me that day, you will also receive a surprise from the "Book to Look" bucket!

Don't be disappointed! Space is limited to ten, so email me today to confirm your reservation. This workshop is free with a Stampin' Up! order placed with me.

Halloween Hoopla at the Hop

Happy "Boos-Day" to you! Welcome to the Stampin' Pretty Pals first holiday blog hop! The focus this month is "Halloween", and I will be sharing two projects with you. The first, a card, features the stamp sets, Halloween Hoot and Grateful Greetings. Off course, what is a Stampin' Up! Halloween card without the spooky Cast-a-Spell Designer Series Paper.

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• "Glam" up those goblins! Any witch worth her broom wouldn't be caught on Halloween without her bling! A lavender Circle Ice Brad is color coordinated with her dress, so stylishly tinted with Rich Razzleberry ink and a Blender Pen. And bling draws the eyes right to the adorable frog and the wise old owl.
  
• Add depth with Dimensionals! The sign was stamped onto Very Vanilla which had been matted onto two additional layers of card stock. After snipping out with Paper Snips, it was popped into the witch's hand with a Stampin' Dimensional. Likewise, the frog and owl mats were also popped up with the "Stampin' D's"!


• Think outside the box! Use your punches in unique and different ways. The matting for the sentiment, "Goblin Greetings", was punched out with the Scallop Oval Punch.

Pillow Box "Trick or Treat" Basket

As everyone knows, Splitcoast Stampers provides a wealth of ideas. In one of their latest tutorials, they included the directions for a small treat basket created with Stampin' Up!s Pillow Box die. In a matter of minutes, I had zipped the die three times through my Big Shot along with Pumpkin Pie textured card stock. To see the tutorial Click Here. However, instead of the traditional jack-o-lantern face, I opted to pull out my trusty punches and the "Cat" and "Bat" images from the Scary Skeleton stamp set. Here is the same basket from a different angle, without the tag (and with Creme Brulee Gourmet Candy Corn...Yum!):

Is this not adorable? I already have plans to make Fall and Holiday ones for our November and December blog hops!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• When an ordinary adhesive just won't do, reach for Sticky Strip! It was so easy to adhere the pillow boxes together using this double-sided tape!


• Distress with Daubers! Sponge Daubers are easy to use. Slipping right onto the finger, they make distressing quick and easy. Distressing adds depth and definition, such as the Pumpkin Pie ink used on the edges of the basket. Distressing can also add visual interest. The edges of all of the stamped and punched images were distressed with Pumpkin Pie.


• Link elements with Linen Thread! Although the ovals and circles are adhered to the sides of the basket with SNAIL Adhesive, the snippets of Linen Thread between them add a special touch!

Time to Hop Along!

I hope that you have enjoyed your little visit to The Stampin' Schach portion of this month's Halloween Hop! Please leave me a comment and let me know what you thought about today's creations. Of course, if you have any questions, don't hesitate to email me! I really do appreciate your comments, and I enjoy answering any questions that you have about the techniques which were used in creating my projects. Since I know that you would love to continue your Halloween Hop adventure, I have included a link to the next stop in your journey, Cards by Gina, where the talented Gina Shaw is just waiting to share her cards with you. And just in case you wish to revisit Debbie Pierce at Stampin' Sunshine, a link for her site has also been provided. Have fun! Until next time...

Holiday Hopper Line-Up

1. Kris Kilcoyne (Kween Bee Kreations)
2. Carla Bazhenow(Carla's Scraps)
3. Linda Callahan (Stampin' Seasons)
4. Melanie Collins(Oops a Daisy)
5. Mary Fish(Stampin' Pretty)
6. Tricia Gillam(Soul Stamper)
7. Jill Gregory(Stamping Heart)
8. Liz Hughes(DIY Paper Creations)
9. Kim Lampone (Stamp, Scrap, Get Kreative)
10. Kalshelia Lloyd (Stampin' Fabulousity)
11. Regina Mangum (The Stampin' Bean)
12. Margaret Moody(Margaret Moody)
13. Debbie Pierce(Stampin' Sunshine)
14. Ann Schach (The Stampin' Schach)
15. Gina Shaw (Cards by Gina)
16. Lourdes Torres (Cozy Crafty Corner)

Click Here to Order Your Stampin' Up! Supplies 24/7!

Stamp Sets: Holiday Hoot (111582), Grateful Greetings (116511), Scary Skeleton (113244); Inks: Jet Black StazOn (101406), Rich Razzleberry (115658), Old Olive (102277), Pumpkin Pie (105216), Summer Sun (100537), Soft Suede (115657), Going Gray (103274); Designer Series Paper: Cast-a-Spell (115677); Card Stock: Pumpkin Pie textured (108697---Earth Elements assorted), Garden Green (102584), Very Vanilla (101650), Whisper White (100730), Old Olive (100702), Basic Black textured (108693---Neutrals assorted); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Pillow Box Die (113466), Scallop Oval Punch (114889), Large Oval Punch (107305), Wide Oval Punch (112082), Scallop Circle Punch (109043), 1" Circle Punch (109046), 1-1/4" Circle Punch (104403), Corner Rounder (109047), Scallop Square Punch (112081), Scallop Edge Punch (112091), Tag Corner Punch (107215), Paper Piercer (116631), Sponge Daubers (102892), Paper Snips (103579), Circle Scissors Plus (112530), Glass Mat (112531); Embellishments: Circle Ice Brads (109111), Basic Black 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (115605), Pumpkin Pie 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109030), Linen Thread (104199), Hemp Twine (100982), Metallic Eyelets (105319), Pumpkin Pie Corduroy Buttons (114342)

Christmas Jingle Mojo

The Christmas Jingle Simply Scrappin' Kit isn't just for scrappin! This card was quickly assembled using paper and die cuts from Christmas Jingle, and the sketch from Mojo Monday Week 107. It's easy and fun, featuring 3 sheets of double-sided paper (stripes, holly vines, dots, snowflakes), 8 sheets of textured card stock (Chocolate Chip, Real Red, Old Olive, Very Vanilla), and 2 sheets each of three different sets of self-adhesive die cuts. Just add your own finishing touches, and Dasher will be ready to dash off to the post office!

The Stampin' Schach Tips:

• Don't re-invent the wheel unless you really want to! All of the Simply Scrappin' kits are color coordinated. No guessing required. Yet there are still a multitude of ways to add your personal touches.


• Mats matter! Since I couldn't decide whether to use Old Olive or Real Red to mat the striped panels, I just used both. Matting adds depth to the card, and emphasizes specific elements. And thanks to the Circle Scissors Plus, I was able to easily mat the Dasher die cut!


• Fire and Ice! Circle Fire Brads in Red and Circle Ice Brads in Green lend a festive air to any holiday card. Use the Template from the Mat Pack for perfect alignment.


• Finish with finesse! A stay-put bow tops everything off. Sleigh Bells, a wonderful cotton ribbon, was the logical choice. A little bit country, just like this card, Sleigh Bells was the perfect accent.

Are You Ready to Hop?

The Pretty Pals Blog Hop is set to begin October 13th, and the focus will be on Halloween! Whether it's rubber stamps or designer paper, we will be showcasing Stampin' Up! products. In addition, we will spotlight Thanksgiving/Fall on November 10, 2009 and Christmas/Winter – December 1, 2009. Here's a peek at who's hopping:

Holiday Hopper Line-Up

1. Kris Kilcoyne (Kween Bee Kreations)
2. Carla Bazhenow(Carla's Scraps)
3. Linda Callahan (Stampin' Seasons)
4. Melanie Collins(Oops a Daisy)
5. Mary Fish(Stampin' Pretty)
6. Tricia Gillam(Soul Stamper)
7. Jill Gregory(Stamping Heart)
8. Liz Hughes(DIY Paper Creations)
9. Pia & Kat Kayo (Stamp Your Life)
10. Kim Lampone (Stamp, Scrap, Get Kreative)
11. Kalshelia Lloyd (Stampin' Fabulousity)
12. Regina Magnum (The Stampin' Bean)
13. Margaret Moody(Margaret Moody)
14. Debbie Pierce(Stampin' Sunshine)
15. Ann Schach (The Stampin' Schach)
16. Gina Shaw (Cards by Gina)
17. Lourdes Torres (Cozy Crafty Corner)

The Stampin' Schach Special

Don't forget my newest Stampin' Schach special...Free Linen Thread with any purchase of $25 or more. During my Linen Thread Promotion, you will have the opportunity to try it for free! Here are the details:

• Between now and October 23rd, just place an on-line order with me of $25.00 or more using my Shop Now button, and include the Linen Thread on your order.
• I will send you a check to cover the cost of the Linen Thread ($4.50) plus an extra 50 cents to cover shipping!
• Sorry, US orders only!

This is an excellent opportunity to try this product risk free. What could be easier?

Have you entered the Pals Paper Arts challenge yet? If not, please head on over to the PPA and link your card today! This week it is a wonderful color challenge of Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, and Perfect Plum. In case you missed my inspiration card, Fall Bouquet for the PPA, please check it out. It is a paper-snipper's dream!

Of course, I always love to hear what you think about each and every card that I create. Please leave a comment, or if you have any questions, please feel free to email me. I do appreciate hearing from you. Until next time...

Click Here to Purchase Stampin' Up! Supplies 24/7!

Paper and Die Cuts: Christmas Jingle Simply Scrappin' (115696); Tools: Circle Scissors Plus (112530), Glass Mat (112531), Mat Pack (105826); Embellishments: Sleigh Bells Ribbon (116795---Holiday Mini), Circle Fire Brads (109110), Circle Ice Brads (109111)