Butterfly Prints for the PPA

It's time to play at PPA! This week's Pals Paper Arts challenge is "Monochromatic---Purple". Be still my heart...purple is my favorite color! I had a blast creating this 6-1/2" by 3-1/4" card featuring the new Butterfly Prints stamp set and the "Flourish" from Elements of Style. Rich Razzleberry, Elegant Eggplant, and Perfect Plum are the yummy trio of purples I selected. Enjoy!

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• Random stamping! The Flourish from Elements of Style was inked with Elegant Eggplant and randomly stamped onto Whisper White card stock. Remember to stamp off the edges of the page! Follow this with a sprinkling of speckles, using the Color Spritzer Tool and a Rich Razzleberry Stampin' Write Marker. Finish by distressing the edges with Elegant Eggplant, and layer onto Rich Razzleberry.


• Punch a trio of card stock butterflies! I punched Perfect Plum, Elegant Eggplant, and Rich Razzleberry card stock with the Butterfly Punch! These were then adhered to the randomly stamped Whisper White layer.


• Ink a trio of butterflies! The three butterfly images from Butterfly Prints were inked with Perfect Plum, Elegant Eggplant and Rich Razzleberry. Mini Glue Dots were used to adhere them to their card stock counterparts. Their bodies were inked with Basic Black, and snipped out with Paper Snips.


• A bit of bling adds zing! Rhinestones accent the heads, while an Antique Brad livens up the Rich Razzleberry bow.


• Finish with a Flourish...down the side of the envelope, that is! A rhinestone or two makes this an "envie" to envy!

For fun, I popped up the wings, and curled up the antennae just a wee bit! I hope that you enjoyed my little trio of "flutterbies", as my niece used to call them. Please leave me a comment and let me know what you think of today's card. And don't forget, I am always here to answer any questions about the cards that I create or the techniques that I use! Until next time...

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Stamp Sets: Butterfly Prints (W 121049; C 120738); Elements of Style (W 118611; C 120045); Inks: Perfect Plum (101437), Elegant Eggplant (105210), Rich Razzleberry (115658), Basic Black (101179), Rich Razzleberry Stampin' Write Marker (120970); Card Stock: Whisper White (100730), Perfect Plum (101889), Elegant Eggplant (105126), Rich Razzleberry (115316); Tools: Butterfly Punch (119848), Paper Snips (103579); Glitz and Glam: Rich Razzleberry 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (119957), Basic Rhinestones (119246), Antique Brads (117273); Other: Small Open Ended Envelopes (107286)

PPA 53 Sneak Peek and Convention Make and Take

Here's a little peek at this week's Pals Paper Arts card to pique your interest! I hope that you will join me this Thursday for the full reveal. I will let you know that this card is a size which I usually do not make, but this is all I am going to say about that...until Thursday! The Pals would love to have you join us for this week's challenge. Challenges allow us to improve upon our papercrafting skills, plus it is always fun to take a look at what our fellow stampers create!

Make and Take Time



As for the "Make and Takes" at this year's Convention...well let it suffice to say that I only got one fully completed! As usual, I travelled to the beat of my own drummer just a wee bit! This would probably not be a card that I would normally make, but you know what? I like it! And it did not take forever. That is a plus! It features the Just Believe set, which I love.

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• Huff and puff! The "Flower Stamp" from Just Believe was inked using Bashful Blue, Not Quite Navy, and Old Olive Stampin' Write Markers. To re-moisten the ink, I huffed on it prior to stamping onto Watercolor Paper. (The directions were to spritz the inked stamp with water, then stamp. But I failed to read them until later! Mea culpa! I always told my lab students to "read all of the directions first!" I guess that I had better practice what I preached!)
• Have a rip-roarin' time! Tear the edges of the Watercolor Paper and distress with Early Espresso ink. Speckle using the Color Spritzer Tool and an Early Espresso Stampin' Write Marker. (The directions were to use the Not Quite Navy Stampin' Write marker, but I improvised.)
• Got the blues? Adhere the Watercolor Paper to Bashful Blue card stock, and tear the edges, distressing with Early Espresso ink. Add a snippet of Certainly Celery 5/8" Satin Ribbon and Linen Thread as shown. Adhere to a 6" x 6" square of Not Quite Navy card stock scored at 3".
• Glitz and Glam! Thread Linen Thread through an Old Olive Brights Button and adhere with Mini Glue Dots!

How easy is that! My special touches, in case you couldn't figure them out, were distressing the torn edges and adding the Linen Thread over the Certainly Celery ribbon. And IF I would have had access to a Big Shot...guess what I would have done!!!

Special Hostess Promotion

How would you like to earn an extra $25 in product? It's easy! Just hold a qualifying workshop of $350 or more (before taxes and shipping) between now and August 31st, and you will be eligible for an additional $25 of Stampin' Up! product!

Here is what you will receive if you hold a $350 workshop:

• Your choice of either a Level 1 OR Level 2 Hostess Set
• $65 of merchandise ($40 + $25)

Your home or mine! I will supply a demonstration of a technique of your choice, in addition to materials and instructions for a fun "Make and Take". All you need to do is supply the guests...and I will even help you brainstorm the list! Call or email me today!

Not located in southeastern Iowa, northeastern Missouri or western Illinois? Don't despair! Email me for details about holding a virtual workshop. Ah! The miracles of technology!

If you have any questions about my cards or techniques, just email me! I love discussing stamping with you, just as much as I love reading the comments that you leave for me! So please, let me know what you think about today's card! Until next time...

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Stamp Set: Just Believe (W 116948; C 120453); Inks: Early Espresso (119670); Stampin' Write Markers: Old Olive (100079), Bashful Blue (105110), Not Quite Navy (100059); Card Stock: Watercolor Paper (105019), Bashful Blue (105120), Not Quite Navy (101722); Tools: Color Spritzer Tool (107066), Mini Glue Dots (103683); Glitz and Glam: Old Olive Brights Designer Buttons (119747), Linen Thread (104199), Certainly Celery 5/8" Satin Ribbon (117288)

Convention 2010...Did I Get Lost in Denver?

The verdict is in, and I can say without a doubt that Convention 2010 was AMAZING! Attending Convention definitely inspires and motivates...and it is a moving experience, too. From Shelli's opening remarks (why didn't someone tell me that I needed to have my Kleenex ready), to my teary-eyed farewell to my fellow Pals, it was an emotion-filled four days. I was overwhelmed by the large number of you, my readers, that found me amidst the throng of demonstrators. Isn't it great to be able to connect faces to names? And I know that some of us will be keeping in close touch over the upcoming months. Of course, when I left for Salt Lake City, I had concerns about making my connection in Denver. So here I am to answer the burning question: Did I get lost in the Denver terminal?

I navigated the airport at Moline, IL just fine! One of my fears was lifting my baggage. A wonderful young man lifted my carry-on bag onto the conveyor belt during the security check. All I had to do was just use puppy-dog eyes! Who can resist an elderly woman in need? And I lucked out that the gate from which I needed to fly was right across from where I deplaned in Denver. No problem with making connections! The problem occurred after I landed in Salt Lake City.

You see, Salt Lake City has more than one Marriott Hotel. For the past few months, I seriously thought that my Marriott was right across the street from the Convention Center. When people would ask, "Where are you staying?" I would smugly say, "In the Marriott right across the street from the Convention Center!" You know the old saying about assumptions? You guessed it. I ended up at the wrong hotel! So with my little "rolly-bag" trailing behind me, and armed with a map, I set off in the wrong direction to find the right hotel. My husband will be the first to tell you that I am map challenged. However, I had a lovely 45 minute walking tour of Salt Lake City until two sweet young businessmen headed me in the right direction. Do you realize how embarrassing it is to stop complete strangers and tell them that you seem to have misplaced the Marriott? Next year, I am thinking The Shiloh, or The Monaco, or The Plaza, or "The Marriott Right Across the Street from the Convention Center" as viable choices of places to stay. However, the room was wonderful, and my roomies (Ginger and Kylie), were delightful.

You may have seen us at Convention. From left to right, are Mike Funke, me, Ginger Toivonen, and Kylie Nicolosi. Isn't Kylie adorable? She watched over Ginger and I, making certain that we were always headed in the right direction. As for Mike, he was my dance partner as we waited for each day's General Session to begin. I swear that there was not a group who had more fun than the four of us!

What did I enjoy the most? My favorite sessions were the new product shares and the demonstrations. I definitely have several ideas of projects in mind that I can hardly wait to share with you, as well as new techniques and tips. Another highlight was watching my upline, Mary Fish, being named #6 Demonstrator of the Year. Of course, I spent way too much at Memento Mall. They had an adorable little "Convention Only" Love What You Do stamp that I purchased as a gift for my downline members. And speaking of downlines, just email or call if you would like to be the next member of The Schach Pack. I would like to discuss the opportunity with you. Being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator is more than just discounts and fantastic product...it is about relationships and sharing what you love! I would love to have you join me at Convention next year! The new Starter Kit, priced at $175 is a fabulous value, and we can customize it to suit your style! And we can complete the paperwork in time for you to take advantage of the Holiday Mini pre-order period. Are you ready to talk about joining my group?

All in all, I had an incredible four days! There is nothing that compares to being surrounded by people who share your passion for stamping. Will I brave the airport terminals next year...you bet! Stay tuned as I share what I have learned with you in the upcoming weeks! You won't be disappointed! I will leave you with one final picture. Who is this hippie chick? Tuesday: A Convention Make and Take share! Until next time... Peace baby!

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Pals Swap Card

Isn't the little witch from Greeting Card Kids bewitching? I love the versatility and the vintage feel of this stamp set. This card was designed for my sideline friends who are attending Convention with me this year. They are always commenting on my watercoloring and distressing. What do you think? Is this a card that you would like to receive as a swap? Let me know in your comment!

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• Design your own vintage Designer Paper! The new Teahouse background stamp was inked with Early Espresso and stamped onto Pear Pizzazz card stock. It is delightfully feminine and looks perfect with our little witch!


• Design your own button! I used a left-over strip of Watercolor Paper to punch out a circle using the 1" Circle Punch. I then selected the "Diminutive Dot" Peach Parfait Designer Series Paper from the Hostess Level 1 In Color Paper Pack, and punched another 1" circle and adhered it to my button base. I used a Sanding Block to smooth the edges. The "Flourish" stamp from Tiny Tags was inked with Early Espresso and stamped onto the button. For finishing touches, I distressed the edge with Soft Suede ink and a Sponge Dauber. A piece of Hemp Twine was threaded through two holes which had been punched with the 1/16" Handheld Punch.


• Seeing circles! The larger circle was made by zipping a piece of Peach Parfait card stock through the Big Shot with the Scallop Circle #2 die, positioning the paper over the larger of the two circles. The smaller circle was punched from Blushing Bride card stock using the new 2-3/8" Scallop Circle Punch. Both circles were then zipped through the Big Shot with the Finial Press Textured Impressions Embossing Folder. Soft Suede ink and a Sponge Dauber were used to softly distress the edges. I also smooched the Peach Parfait circle with Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz to add just a touch of bewitching sparkle!


• Delightful details! A Tiny Tags "Boo" is suspended from the button by means of a Vintage Trinkets Safety Pin, while a snippet of the new Victoria Crochet Trim adds even more vintage charm. And who can overlook the three Basic Pearls in the upper left hand corner of the image mat. So sweet!


• Watercolor whimsey! Blender Pens and inks were used to watercolor our little cutie which had been stamped onto Stampin' Up!'s Watercolor Paper with Basic Gray ink. Peach Parfait and Pumpkin Pie were used for the pumpkin, Pretty in Pink and Regal Rose tinted the cape and stockings, while the dress was colored with Pear Pizzazz and Old Olive. Blush Blossom, with just a touch of Pretty in Pink for her cheeks, were used for the face, arms and legs. And for our little witch-in-training's curls, Daffodil Delight and Pumpkin Pie did the trick. Oh, the broom was Soft Suede and So Saffron. Shading around the entire image was provided by Sahara Sand. Whew! Thank goodness I only had to do 11 of these!

Remember, your comments are important to me. So what is the verdict...do you think my friends enjoyed this card? I'll let you know when I return from Convention! And if you have any questions about the techniques used to create this card, don't hesitate to email me! I love your comments and questions. Until next time...

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Stamp Sets: Greeting Card Kids, Teahouse, Tiny Tags; Inks: Pretty in Pink, Blush Blossom, Regal Rose, Peach Parfait, Pumpkin Pie, Basic Gray, Early Espresso, Old Olive, Pear Pizzazz, Soft Suede, So Saffron, Daffodil Delight, Sahara Sand; Card Stock: Pretty in Pink, Pear Pizzazz, Peach Parfait, Blushing Bride, Early Espresso, Watercolor Paper; Tools: Big Shot, Scallop Circle Die #2, Finial Press Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, 1" Circle Punch, Tiny Tag Punch, 2-3/8" Scallop Circle Punch, Blender Pens, Sponge Daubers; Glitz and Glam: Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz, Vintage Trinkets, Early Espresso 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Victoria Crochet Trim, Hemp Twine

Notably Ornate for PPA 52

It's Thursday...and that means it's time to play the Pals Paper Arts challenge! This week we are hosting a challenge featuring a delightful sketch, which I tweaked a little to better suit the Notably Ornate stamp set. The moment I saw this set, I knew that it would be on my "Must Have" list! It's ornate lines appealed to my love of Victoriana! Of course, this card features a little distressing, texture, and satin ribbon, which I just adore! Have fun with this week's challenge!

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• Texture, texture everywhere! Although I have been showcasing the new Vintage Wallpaper Textured Impressions Embossing Folder lately, I selected two old friends for this card...Finial Press and Square Lattice. Why? The answer is simple. The smaller visual field warranted a smaller pattern! So I quickly zipped Marina Mist through the Big Shot with the Finial Press folder, and Early Espresso through with the Square Lattice folder. Aren't these colors wonderful with each other?


• Fussy cut! The "Ornate Ledger" image from Notably Ornate was inked with Early Espresso ink and stamped onto Very Vanilla. It was then paper snipped. When fussy cutting, don't worry about snipping around all of the little details...just stick with the major outline!


• More snipping! The floral edges of the Ornate Ledger stamp were inked up again with Early Espresso and stamped onto Marina Mist. I then snipped out the flowers and adhered them to the Very Vanilla image. A small Basic Pearl serves as the center. What did I do before Stampin' Up! came out with their pearls!


• It's all in the details! The "Just Because" sentiment was stamped in Early Espresso onto Very Vanilla, and then punched out with the Modern Label punch. The edges were distressed using Crumb Cake ink and a Sponge Dauber. For extra pizzazz, the label was layered onto a second Marina Mist Modern Label.


• Smooch a Fan Flower for fun! Log Cabin Smooch Spritz adds a bronze patina to the Marina Mist Fan Flower. And how about the gorgeous Antique Brad center? To make the Fan Flower, I punched two Scallop Circles from Marina Mist. I used my stylus to crease from indent to indent, after which I cut each circle in half. I pleated each half like a fan, and adhered the four halves together. Easy!

I hope that you enjoy this week's challenge. It's a classy sketch which I know I will use again! I am always amazed at the talented stampers who participate in the Pals challenges, and I look forward to seeing your work! In closing, remember that your comments are important to me. So please let me know what you think about today's card. And if you have any questions about this card, or any of the cards that I create, just send me an email. I just love answering your questions. It's my teacher genes! Until next time...

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Stamp Set: Notably Ornate (C 120561; W 117098); Inks: Early Espresso (119670), Crumb Cake (121030); Card Stock: Very Vanilla (101650), Marina Mist (119682), Early Espresso (119686); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Square Lattice Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (119976), Finial Press Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (115963), Paper Snips (103579), Modern Label Punch (119849), 1-3/4" Scallop Circle Punch (119854); Glitz and Glam: Log Cabin Smooch Spritz (119921), Marina Mist 5/8" Satin Ribbon (119751), Antique Brads (117273), Basic Pearls (119247), Victoria Crochet Trim (118841), Whisper White 5/8" Satin Ribbon (114616)

PPA 52 Sneak Peek

As is customary, I am providing you with a wee peek at tomorrow's Pals Paper Arts inspiration card. It is a vintage/shabby chic card which is in vogue right now. I find this style so much fun to create! If you would like to see more, tune in tomorrow!

Barb asked in a comment Monday if I would list down the stamp sets that I have purchased from the new Idea Book and Catalog. Well, here is my list of favorites. Some have been purchased already, and some are on my Wish List! Ready troops? Here goes:

• Elizabeth (117120 $9.95)
• Wicked Cool (C 120600 $14.95; W 118738 $19.95)
• Studio Sketches (C 122222 $13.95; W 116974 $17.95)
• Greeting Card Kids (C 120633 $15.95; W 119887 $20.95)
• Contempo Christmas (C 120594 $11.95; W 118734 $15.95)
• Morning Cup (C 120489 $16.95; W 116988 $21.95)
• Friends Fur-ever (C 120504 $25.95; W 117008 $33.95)
• Baby Bundle (C 120576 $19.95; W 118525 $27.95)
• Friends Never Fade (C 120618 $13.95; W 118750 $17.95)
• Butterfly Prints (C 120738 $12.95; W 121049 $16.95)
• Countryside (C 120495 $16.95; W 116998 $22.95)
• Uncharted Territory (C 120456 $14.95; W 116952 $19.95)
• In Wildnerness (C 120537 $16.95; W 117040 $21.95)
• Artistic Etchings (C 120573 $14.95; W 118517 $18.95)
• Notably Ornate (C 120561 $17.95; W 117098 $23.95)
• Have a Seat (C 120447 $11.95; W 116696 $15.95)
• Teahouse (W 117132 $17.95)
• A Word for You (C 120528; W 117032 $21.95)
• Word Play (C 120651 $28.95; W 120308 $41.95)

I purchase clear mounts whenever possible, because I get more bang for my buck. Plus, I was fortunate to earn several sets during Sale-A-Bration...I love the perks of being a Stampin' Up!demonstrator! Non-stamp favorites from the new Idea Book and Catalog include Elegant Soiree, Love Letters, and Lap of Luxury Designer Series Papers, Pearls and Rhinestones, and the Chantilly and Victoria crochet trim!

I hope that you enjoyed today's peek, and that you will join me again tomorrow! Remember that your comments are important to me, and that I do read each and every one! If you have any questions about the cards that I create, or the techniques that I use...or even my "Favorites List", do not hesitate to email me! I will certainly get back to you after I return from Convention. Until next time...

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Steppin' It Up...Part 2

Cabochons, texture and shimmer...oh my! Have you ever made a card and wondered how you could "dress it up" a little? Using yesterday's card as my inspiration, I simply stepped it up a notch by adding a little glam. None of the extra steps are difficult, and they only take a minimum amount of time. Yet, what a difference they make!

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• Random stamping! Starting with a 5-1/4" x 5-1/4" Old Olive card base, I inked up the "Flourish" from Elements of Style with Chocolate Chip, and randomly stamped along the edges. When random stamping, make certain to stamp off the edge in some places! Trust me...it looks better!


• Wheelies! The Very Vintage wheel was inked with Old Olive and rolled across Very Vanilla card stock. A few Soft Suede speckles were added with the Color Spritzer Tool, while Chocolate Chip ink was sponged onto the edges. A Sponge Dauber and Old Olive distressed the edges even more.


• Embossing Boss! The Wedding Sweet image was inked with VersaMark and heat embossed with Gold Stampin' Emboss Powder. Quick and easy!


• Zip, zip, zip! In a matter of seconds, a piece of Very Vanilla card stock was zipped through the Big Shot with the Square Lattice Embossing Folder. Once again, the Color Spritzer Tool and a Chocolate Chip Stampin' Write Marker are used to add speckles, while a Sponge Dauber and Chocolate Chip ink are used to distress the edges.


• Shimmer and Glimmer! A few drops of Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint, mixed with rubbing alcohol, add a fine shimmer of "gold dust" to the Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon. Although I have been doing a lot of "smooching" lately with Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz, the Shimmer Paint mixture is much more refined and elegant. "Smooching" can sometimes leave spots!


• Cabochons are chic! Mini Vintage Tags were embossed using VersaMark ink and Gold Stampin' Emboss Powder. Large half-back pearls from the now-retired Pretties Kit were then adhered. Out of the large half-back pearls? Don't despair! A beautiful look can be achieved using the new large Basic Pearls and surrounding them with smaller ones! It is a look which screams "Yowza"!

The cards posted today and yesterday were part of my second Dirty Dozen gallery. I hope that you enjoyed seeing the "stepped up" version. Which of the two was your favorite? Just leave me a comment, and let me know! And remember, I am always willing to answer any questions about the cards that I create and the techniques that I use. Just drop me an email and ask away! However, remember that I am winging my way toward Utah today and will be away from my computer until Sunday evening. Which brings us to the question...Did I get lost in the Denver airport? I will certainly let you know! Until next time...

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Stamp Sets: Wedding Sweet (115466), Elements of Style (C 120045, W 118611), Very Vintage wheel (117693); Inks: Old Olive (102277), Chocolate Chip (100908), Versamark (102283); Card Stock: Old Olive (100702), Very Vanilla (101650), Brushed Gold (102935); Tools: Heat Tool (100005), Color Spritzer Tool(107066), Soft Suede Stampin' Write Marker (120973), Big Shot (113439), Square Lattice Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (119976), Mini Vintage Tags (118763); Glitz and Glam: Gold Stampin' Emboss Powder (109129), Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint (116806), Chocolate Chip 5/8" Satin Ribbon (117287), Large Half-back Pearls from Pretties Kit (retired)

Steppin' It Up...Part 1

This is a week of firsts! My first Stampin' Up! Convention, my first face-to-face meeting with my upline, my first time in Utah, my first time flying alone! I am not afraid of flying, but I am afraid of terminals. Please keep your collective fingers crossed that I don't get lost in the Denver airport during my extremely short layover Tuesday afternoon. Coming back Sunday, I will have nearly four hours in Denver to find my gate...no problems there! I will definitely need to bring along a good book to read!

I will have a variety of cards for you to view during my absence, including Stepping It Up...Part 2 on Tuesday, the PPA Sneak Peak on Wednesday, the PPA Reveal on Thursday, my Convention Swap card on Saturday, and Dirty Dozen card Sunday. I will not be taking my laptop with me to Utah, but I promise that I will share plenty of pictures with you when I return!

Today's card features the Wedding Sweet stamp set, which can be used for more than just weddings, and Presto Patterns Specialty Designer Series Paper! This card was quick and easy to make, and the nice thing about it is that you can easily take the same concept and "step it up a notch", as you will see with tomorrow's card!

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• "Presto chango alakazam!" Just say the magic words, add ink, and watch the beautiful design appear on the Presto Patterns Specialty Designer Series Paper! I used a Brayer to quickly apply Old Olive ink, and used a paper towel to remove the excess from the white glossy design. (If you don't have a Brayer, just sponge on the color.) The result mimics the emboss resist technique. For a vintage look, I sponged Soft Suede in the corners. Oh... and if time is a factor...you can skip the magic words!


• Do the bow-dacious two-step! Use two pieces of ribbon for your ribbon treatment when using Stampin' Up!'s luscious 5/8" Satin Ribbon. Adhere one piece to the card base, and use the second piece to make a separate bow. A couple of Mini Glue Dots will hold your bow in place!


• Add shimmer and glimmer! Heat embossing is a breeze with VersaMark ink and Gold Stampin' Emboss Powder! The gold embossed image from Wedding Suite coordinates well with the Old Olive background and Chocolate Chip ribbon. Did you know that Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon is still available in the Summer Mini catalog? If you love this ribbon as much as I do, you will want to make certain that you stock up!


• Release your stress by distressing! A Soft Suede Stampin' Write Marker and the Color Spritzer Tool does the trick, adding a shabby chic feel in a matter of seconds!

Looking for something similar, but a little more glamorous? Check out tomorrow's "stepped up" version! Until next time...

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Stamp Set: Wedding Sweet; Ink: VersaMark, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip; Designer Series Paper: Presto Patterns Specialty Designer Series Paper Card Stock: Very Vanilla, Brushed Gold, Old Olive; Tools: Heat Tool, Sponge Dauber, Brayer, Color Spritzer Tool, Soft Suede Stampin' Write Marker; Glitz and Glam: Chocolate Chip 5/8" Satin Ribbon (Summer Mini), Gold Stampin' Emboss Powder

A Wedding Invitation for the PPA

Thursday is one of my favorite days of the week because it is Pals Paper Arts Challenge Day! This week our challenge is "Weddings". We love weddings at Pals Paper Arts and we hope you do, too! Weddings are magical and inspirational...and nothing tastes better than wedding cake! My card today is a concept card created for a wonderful young woman who is anticipating an October wedding. Although she has already selected commercially designed invitations, she wanted 24 hand made cards for relatives and special friends, as well as programs covers. The Elegant Lines embossing folder and the sophisticated color combination of Crumb Cake and Early Espresso are right up her alley. Plus, she adored the little bouquet from the Wedding Sweet set, which has been embossed in gold. The inside will contain a vellum insert with the specifics and a gold-embossed Sweet Swirls border . Of course, I will be on pins and needles waiting for her to return from vacation so she can see it in person. This will be a starting point, and I am anticipating that we will make some changes. Luckily I will have Convention to keep my mind occupied while awaiting her response!!! Whether your creation has something old, something new, something borrowed or something blue as your inspiration...whether it is an invitation, congratulatory card, or a shower card, I am anxious to see what fabulous projects you have to share!

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• Do you have a buddy? An Embossing Buddy that is! Running this little powder-filled "pillow" across your paper prior to heat embossing removes static, and leaves your embossed image free of those annoying little speckles.
• Formal or casual? When designing a formal card, select specific design elements to imply a more formal tone. Square corners, multilayer mats incorporating Brushed Gold card stock and gold embossing will help you achieve an air of formality.
• So many colors...so many decisions! Neutral and Regal color palettes are always good choices for elegance. Pearls, as well as satin or taffeta ribbon, are the perfect embellishments!
• Less is more! The Elegant Lines Textured Impressions Embossing Folder has such wonderful detail. Lots of extra embellishments are unnecessary!

Weddings are so special! I am thrilled to have the honor of designing cards for two brides this fall. The second wedding will be next summer, leaving me with more time to develop my concept card. I think that I am just as excited as the brides!

I hope that you enjoyed today's card. Remember, I appreciate your comments. If you have a question about this card or any of the techniques that I use, don't hesitate to email me. I love answering questions! Now skedaddle on over to the PPA site and take a look at the beautiful inspiration cards created by our Design Team. I will be awaiting your creations! Until next time...

Click Here for List of Retired Stamps for Sale (Prices Reduced)

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Stamp Set: Wedding Sweet (115466); Ink: VersaMark (102283); Card Stock: Brushed Gold (102935), Very Vanilla (101650), Early Espresso (119686), Crumb Cake (120953); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Elegant Lines Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (119277), Heat Tool (100005), Gold Stampin' Emboss Powder (109129), Embossing Buddy (103083); Glitz and Glam: Early Espresso 5/8" Satin Ribbon (119753), Basic Pearls (119247)

Happy Retirement and Peek-a-PPA-Boo

I have been so busy since my last post on Thursday. Over the weekend I attended the Creating Keepsake Scrapbooking Convention in Des Moines, where I learned a few new techniques which I will be pleased to share with you in the upcoming weeks. And I also put the finishing touches on my Dirty Dozen cards for this month, which goes live Thursday...the same day as our latest Pals Paper Arts challenge. My six cards for this month showcase several new Stampin' Up! sets, including Uncharted Territory, Wicked Cool, Fur-Ever Friends and Greeting Card Kids. So in case you have been wondering where all of my latest cards are, they will be right there waiting for you in the Splitcoaststampers Fan Club. (You can learn more about the Fan Club by clicking Here.) As for my PPA card, it is loaded with texture! I just love the new Elegant Lines Textured Impressions Embossing Folder. Plus, the new Basic Pearls are wonderful! Remember that challenges are great tools for helping us grow artistically. I hope that you will play @ the PPA this week. Who knows...you may be selected as a Pals Paper Artists Pick, just like the latest talented recipients of the PPA badge!

As I finish up today's post, I would like to share another card from my first Dirty Dozen gallery, "All Creatures Great and Small". How appropriate that this retirement card features the newly retired Close to Cocoa card stock! For an updated look, I would substitute Soft Suede or Crumb Cake. Either would look beautiful with More Mustard and Always Artichoke, which form the accent colors.


The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• Have a plan! Mine was to simulate the look of a barn. To do this, I inked up the Woodgrain background stamp with Basic Brown and stamped it onto Close to Cocoa. Looking through the oval at the farm animals was to simulate looking through the knot-hole of the barn siding.


• Bring out the texture! After dampening with a spritz of water, More Mustard card stock was zipped through the Big Shot with the "Distressed" Texturz Plate from Kit #4. (Dampening the paper slightly provides a crisper image.) Bring out the texture even more with a little Chocolate Chip ink!


• Layer your labels! Both the Modern Label and Designer Label Punches were layered for interest.


• Watercolor with Blender Pen and Inks! I just touch the tip of the Blender Pen directly to the corner of the selected stamp pad in order to load it with color. For these critters, I used Chocolate Chip, Creamy Caramel, Basic Gray, Whisper White, Not Quite Navy, More Mustard, Really Rust, Ruby Red, and Blush Blossom. Sahara Sand provides the shadowing.

This retirement card was especially made for a dear friend of mine, who also retired from teaching this year. Although the card has a distinct masculine feel, Joan grew up on a farm. I knew that she would appreciate the barn board siding and the farm animals, and her reaction when she received the card did not disappoint me. Happy retirement!

In closing today, don't forget that your comments are important to me! I do read all of them, and respond to those I can. In fact, here are a few clarifications about my last card, Live with Passion for the PPA!: For Kim, who wanted to know if I cut down the oval sentiment by hand...I actually punched out two Basic Gray 2" x 1-3/8" Ovals, and adhered them behind the sentiment. For Terri, the edges of the snipped out flowers and leaves were distressed using Chocolate Chip ink and a Sponge Dauber. Remember, if you ever have any questions about the cards that I create or the techniques that I use, I am only an email away! Until next time...


Click Here to View my Retired Stamps for Sale

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Stamp Sets: Farm Life, Teeny Tiny Wishes, Woodgrain ; Card Stock: Always Artichoke, Creamy Caramel, More Mustard, Very Vanilla
Inks: Basic Brown, Chocolate Chip, Creamy Caramel, Basic Gray, Whisper White, Not Quite Navy, More Mustard, Really Rust, Ruby Red, Blush Blossom, Sahara Sand; Tools: Designer Label Punch, Modern Label Punch, Big Shot, Texturz Plate Kit #4 "Distressed", Linen Thread, Vintage Brads, Color Spritzer Tool, Chocolate Chip Stampin' Write Marker, Sponge Dauber; Nestabilities Oval Die

Live with Passion for PPA50

It's Thursday and time for another Pals Paper Arts challenge! How about a color challenge this week? And challenge it is, with So Saffron, Chocolate Chip and Basic Gray! Now I can see So Saffron and Chocolate Chip together, and So Saffron and Basic Gray. But Chocolate Chip and Basic Gray...no way! But being the trooper that I am, I armed myself with inks, papers and stamps, and proceeded to create! And I am here to prove that it can be done...with just a touch of Always Artichoke for good luck. Enjoy "Inspired by Basic Saffron Chips with a Side Order of Artichoke"!

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• Its hip to be square! When making square cards, remember that 5-1/4" x 5-1/4" tuck nicely into Stampin' Up!'s square envelopes.


• In distress? Send an SOS! Smooch Or Spritzer, that is! A Chocolate Chip Stampin' Write Marker and the Color Spritzer Tool provides speckles to age our background instantly, while Log Cabin Smooch Spritz adds a beautiful bronze patina to the So Saffron buttons. Of course, Chocolate Chip ink, applied to the edges of the Very Vanilla image mat with a Sponge Dauber, enhances the vintage feel.


• How can you add depth to an image? The Shadow knows! Stamping Basic Gray "shadows" sets up depth of field, which is further enhanced by placing the colored images in the foreground.


• With a snip-snip here, and a snip-snip there! After inking the cone flowers with So Saffron, Chocolate Chip, and Always Artichoke, they were snipped out with paper snips and adhered onto the background.


• Pierce with passion! Bring the sentiment to life with a simple row of piercing. Why does it look so perfect? The Piercing Template from the Mat Pack is the key!


• It's all about the details! Hemp Twine is threaded through the buttons, while two Basic Gray ovals, punched using the 2" x 1-3/8" Oval Punch, back the sentiment. A snippet of Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon, which is still available in the Summer Mini, completes the look.

I hope that you are inspired by today's card! What at first appeared to be a tricky trio of colors, ended up being a delightful combination. Is this a color combination that I would have selected on my own? I don't think so. But is it a color combination that I might consider using again? Yep! And that is the beauty of a challenge. So please join us at PPA this week, and stretch your creativity! Remember I will be out of commission for a few days while attending the Scrapbook Convention in Des Moines, but I am sure that I will come back with wonderful ideas to share! So, please leave me a comment and let me know what you think of today's card. And if you have questions about today's cards or the techniques that I use, I am more than happy to answer them. Just drop me an email! Until next time...

Remember to check out my Retired Stamp Sale!

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Stamp Set: Inspired by Nature (111656); Inks: Basic Gray (109120), Chocolate Chip (100908); Stampin' Write Markers: Chocolate Chip (100071), So Saffron (105114), Always Artichoke (105113); Card Stock: Basic Gray (121044), So Saffron (105118), Chocolate Chip (102128); Tools: Color Spritzer Tool (107066), Cutter Kit (106958), Sponge Daubers (102892), Paper Snips (103579), 2" x 1-3/8" Oval Punch (119859), Paper Piercer (116631), Mat Pack (105826); Glitz and Glam: Log Cabin Smooch Spritz (119921), Subtles Designer Buttons (119745), Hemp Twine (100982), Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon (117287)

PPA 50 Sneak Peek

Just a quick little peek at this week's Pals Paper Arts challenge card! We would love to have you join us in Challenge 50, which goes live on Thursday. As I have always said, challenges are a great way to sharpen your card making skills while having fun! Although our Design Team is composed of Stampin' Up! demonstrators who showcase Stampin' Up! products in our inspiration cards, we encourage everyone to participate and to use any brand of products you wish. Be sure to check out this week's Pals Paper Arts Artist Picks. They are posted every Wednesday morning!

If any of you are going to be attending the Creating Keepsakes Scrapbooking Convention in Des Moines this Thursday, Friday and Saturday, please say "Hi!" if you see me. I will be attending several sessions focusing on embellishments and dimension. I can hardly wait to come back and share with you all of the wonderful things that I will have learned.

I am also currently preparing for the upcoming Splitcoaststampers Dirty Dozen gallery which is set for viewing on July 15th. I hope that you will not be disappointed with the selection of Stampin' Up! cards that I am creating for you. And while I am away at the Stampin' Up! Convention, I will be posting several of my cards from my April Dirty Dozen gallery.

Don't forget to check out my used stamp sale in progress now. There are still several sets available! Until next time...

Retired Stamp Sets for Sale
Order Stampin' Up 24/7

Happy Fourth of July!

If bling is your thing, today's card may just fill the bill. It's easy and fun, with a layout that can be used again and again! Yummy Cherry Cobbler and Night of Navy pair up with Whisper White to form a patriotic trio!

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• Don't be random stamping dysfunctional! With one firework image from the Fourth of July set inked in Night of Navy, and another inked in Cherry Cobbler, this cheery fireworks display can be created in a matter of minutes! The key to perfect random placement is to begin near the center of your paper and move outward towards the perimeter. And remember...the design will be more pleasing if you stamp a few images off of the edge! Random isn't always really random!


• Three is key! An elementary principle of design is that odd numbers are pleasing to the eye. Three stars and three Circle Fire Brads illustrate this perfectly. Try it with only two and see the difference for yourself.


• When using smooth card stock, texture adds interest! With the Square Lattice Embossing Folder, it can be added in seconds.


• Complete with a pleat! I make my pleated ribbon using the non-sew method with Sticky Strip and Glue Dots. Try this simple method:

1. Lay down a piece of Sticky Strip. Adhere your ribbon.

2. Form your pleat, and hold in place with a Mini Glue Dot.

3. Form the next pleat over the top of the glue dot, and just keep repeating!

This quick and easy pleating method works well with both Satin and Grosgrain ribbons.

The Fourth of July stamp set is featured in the Summer Mini catalog. Think of the adorable birthday cards one could make with stars, fireworks and firecracker candles. And if bling is not your thing, check out my Americana card using this set.

There is still time to upload your patriotic card to the Pals Paper Arts challenge. If you have not checked out the adorable cards that have already been uploaded, head on over. And there is still time to take advantage of my Retired Stamp Sale. This list is updated as sets are sold.

As always, I do appreciate your comments, so please be kind and say "hi"! And don't forget that if you ever have any questions about the techniques that I use, I am just an email away! Enjoy your holiday weekend! Until next time...

Ann's Retired Stamp Sale

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Stamp Set: Fourth of July (W 118523, C 120063---Summer Mini); Inks: Cherry Cobbler (119669), Night of Navy (102977); Card Stock: Night of Navy (100867), Cherry Cobbler (119685), Whisper White (100730); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Square Lattice Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (119976), 1-3/4" Scallop Circle Punch (119854), 1-3/8" Circle Punch (119860); Glitz and Glam: Real Red Satin Ribbon (117286), Circle Fire Brads (109110)

They're Here...New Catalogs are Live

2010-2011 Catalog

Click the catalog to download in .pdf format!

Click here to download the 2010-2011 Catalog Supplies

Definitely Decorative

Click the catalog to download in .pdf format!

Click here to download the Catalog Supplies

Celebrando Creatividad

Click the catalog to download in .pdf format!

Click here to download the Catalog Supplies

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Check out my retired stamp sale!

Happy Fourth of July at the PPA

It's time for the Pals Paper Arts Challenge! This week the Pals have planned an Inspiration challenge for you based upon a fireworks photograph. Of course when I think of fireworks, I immediately think of...The Fourth of July! Today's card is Americana personified! It is actually the second card that I made for the challenge! I will post the "blingier" first card later this week! Have fun with today's challenge!

The Stampin' Schach Design Tips:

• As American as Cherry Cobbler! Stampin' Up!'s delicious new rich red, takes on a rustic hue when stamped onto Crumb Cake card stock. (Crumb Cake is the color formerly known as Kraft!) Crumb Cake and Cherry Cobbler...who could ask for a yummier color combination! Add a little Night of Navy, and you have the recipe for "Americana"!

• Sometimes less is more! A double bow made of Hemp Twine is the only simple accent needed for this texture laden card.

Whimsical "Wow"! A firecracker's hand-stitched flame adds a spark of fun! Linen Thread does the trick! Add a few speckles with the Color Spritzer Tool and a Night of Navy Stampin' Write Marker, and you have instant "distress"!

• Be a "layer player"! The sentiment, stamped in Night of Navy onto Crumb Cake was punched out with the 1-3/8" Circle Punch and layered onto a Cherry Cobber Scalloped Circle. For a little pzazz, the scallops were pierced with a Paper Piercer.

The Fourth of July is a wonderful time to get together with family and friends. I am lucky to live in a small community where everyone takes part in festivities uptown. We will begin our day with a pancake breakfast at the Fire Department. My son, Brady, will be playing a medley of patriotic tunes on the trumpet and will open with our National Anthem. There are activities for children, a talent show, a parade, and tons of food! The evening concludes with music and fireworks! Of course, throughout the day there are ample opportunities to just sit and visit. Ah! I love living in a small town!

I hope that you enjoyed today's Americana Fourth of July card, and that you will join me on Saturday for the "snazzier" version using this same set. As promised, I have listed my retired stamp sets which I have for sale. Please click HERE to see the sets and pictures. In the meantime, won't you please let me know what you think of today's card by leaving me a comment? I do appreciate them. And if you have a question about today's Americana card, do not hesitate to email me. Until next time...

Click Here to Order Stampin' Up! 24/7

Stamp Set: Fourth of July (W 118523, C 120063---Summer Mini); Inks: Cherry Cobbler (119669), Night of Navy (102977); Card Stock: Night of Navy (100867), Cherry Cobbler (119685), Crumb Cake (120953); Tools: Big Shot (113439), Square Lattice Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (119976), 1-3/4" Scallop Circle Punch (119854), 1-3/8" Circle Punch (119860), Night of Navy Stampin' Write Marker (100069), Paper Piercer (116631), Mat Pack (105826), Paper Snips (103579); Glitz and Glam: Hemp Twine (100982), Linen Thread (104199)