Inspiration Ink

Dream Key

This is the card I made for my future daughter-in-law to congratulate her on her graduation from UMBC (University of Maryland Baltimore County). 

It uses a mix of retiring and new products.  It looks prettier in person because you can see the shimmer and shine added by the Glimmer Brads, Smooch Pearlized Accent Ink, and Shimmer Paint better.  Plus, the colors look better in real life - Bashful Blue and Midnight Muse.  My camera just doesn't do it justice!  For a tutorial on making the Scrunchie Flower, please check my blog post here here.  Retiring products are listed in red and sneak peek products available in the new catalog effective June 1 are in green.  Enjoy!

Uses Baroque Motifs Set and Loving Thoughts Clear-Mount Set plus Midnight Muse Card Stock, Bashful Blue Card Stock, Whisper White Card Stock, Midnight Muse Classic Stampin' Pad, Bashful Blue Classic Stampin' Pad, Bashful Blue Stampin' Write Marker, White Vellum Paper, Paisley Petals Designer Series Paper, Bashful Blue 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Basics Glimmer Brads, Trinket Keys, Color Spritzer Tool, Illuminate Top Coat Smooch Pearlized Accent Ink, Frost White Shimmer Paint, Sponge Daubers, Clear-Mount Block G, SNAIL Adhesive, Mini Glue Dots, Paper-Piercing Tool, Mat Pack, Craft Scissors, Boho Blossoms Punch, 1-3/4" Scallop Circle Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, Framed Tulips Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, and Apothecary Accents Framelits Dies.

Take It Tuesday

You can stop by anytime between 2 p.m and 7 p.m.  You don't have to tell me in advance that you are coming, just pop by!

You can pay me for an order or upcoming event, register for an upcoming event, or place an order.  Plus, you can browse through samples I have on display and take pictures of the samples so you can use them for inspiration at home.

Retired merchandise is back out for sale so you can shop through it while you are here too.

You can also bring any products you may have that you'd like a little extra instruction on how to use and I'll give you a quick lesson.   So, if you have a punch that is giving you trouble or aren't sure what sandwich to use with a Big Shot Die or want some tips on using Wheels, etc. bring them along and get a one-on-one lesson.

If you have cards to donate for Operation Write Home, bring those too!  Please just remember - absolutely no glitter!

I'll also have a couple of quick and easy card projects ready for you to stamp if you wish.  These projects are different each week.  Cost will be $1 per project made.  You may make one of each of the two cards available if you wish.

Today we'll be making these two cards:

Of course, you get to use the monogram you want!  Uses Fresh Vintage Sale-A-Bration Clear-Mount Set and Lovely Letters Alphabet Set plus Melon Mambo Card Stock, Pretty in Pink Card Stock, Basic Gray Card Stock, Melon Mambo Classic Stampin' Pad, Pretty in Pink Classic Stampin' Pad, Melon Mambo Stampin' Write Marker, Blossom Builders Designer Printed Kit, Basic Gray 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Color Spritzer Tool, Clear-Mount Block A, Clear-Mount Block D, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Mini Glue Dots, Craft Scissors, Curly Label Punch, and 1-3/4" Scallop Circle Punch.

Uses Up, Up & Away Clear-Mount Set plus Pool Party Card Stock, So Saffron Card Stock, Whisper White Card Stock, Pool Party Classic Stampin' Pad, So Saffron Classic Stampin' Pad, Pool Party 3/8" Ruffled Ribbon, Subtles Glimmer Brads, Stamping Sponges, Clear-Mount Block A, Clear-Mount Block B, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Paper-Piercing Tool, Mat Pack, Craft Scissors, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, 2-1/2" Circle Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, and Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Embossing Folder.

Appreciation Tea Make & Take Projects

Here are the three cards everyone got to make for free during my Appreciation Tea the other day.  Enjoy!

This first one actually involves no stamping!  It features the fun Elegant Bird which I also used to decorate all the door prize bags and packages.  We ran the Baja Breeze layer through the Big Shot in the Elegant Bouquet Embossing Folder twice so that the entire piece was embossed with flowers.

Uses Pear Pizzazz Card Stock, Blushing Bride Card Stock, Baja Breeze Card Stock, Twitterpated Designer Series Paper, Pear Pizzazz 1/2" Seam Binding Ribbon, Paper Daisies, In Color 2010-2012 Glimmer Brads, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Paper-Piercing Tool, Mat Pack, Craft Scissors, 3/4" Circle Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, Elegant Bouquet Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, Labels Collection Framelits Dies, and Elegant Bird Bigz Die.

This next card gave everyone a sneak peek at a new product coming soon.  I got this delightul new set, Bright Blossoms, when I attended Manager's Reception at Leadership recently.  Everyone will get the chance to order it early when Stampin' Up! offers a Summer Smooches Sneak Peek in April.  The Bright Blossoms Set will then be in the new big catalog effective June 1.

Uses Bright Blossoms Clear-Mount Set and Fabulous Phrases Clear-Mount Set plus Rich Razzleberry Card Stock, Whisper White Card Stock, Rich Razzleberry Classic Stampin' Pad, Pumpkin Pie Stampin' Write Marker, Rich Razzleberry Stampin' Write Marker, Old Olive Stampin' Write Marker, Old Olive 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, Brights Brads, Clear-Mount Block A, Clear-Mount Block B, Clear-Mount Block G, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Paper-Piercing Tool, Mat Pack, Paper Snips, Craft Scissors, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, and Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Embossing Folder.

The last card also offers a sneak peek of a new set called Everything Eleanor that will be available in the new catalog effective June 1.  I got it for free just for attending Leadership!

Uses Everything Eleanor Clear-Mount Set and Loving Thoughts Clear-Mount Set plus Pool Party Card Stock, So Saffron Card Stock, Not Quite Navy Card Stock, Very Vanilla Card Stock, Pool Party Classic Stampin' Pad, Not Quite Navy Classic Stampin' Pad, Not Quite Navy Stampin' Write Marker, Linen Thread, Pool Party 1/2" Seam Binding Ribbon, Antique Brads, Color Spritzer Tool, Clear-Mount Block A, Clear-Mount Block B, Clear-Mount Block C, Clear-Mount Block E, Clear-Mount Block H, Clear-Mount Block I, SNAIL Adhesive, Sticky Strip, Paper-Piercing Tool, Mat Pack, Cutter Kit, Paper Snips, Craft Scissors, and 1" Square Punch.

Here's a few pictures of some of the ladies stamping their projects.

Cathy M. and Linda B. concentrate on their stamping while Mim C. explains something.

Cheryl S. and Jenn R. listen as Robin C. talks to another guest.

Maria M. and Michelle H. examine a sample card while Beverly P., Connie G., and Sandy B. stamp away.

Missy G. and Maria M. check out their work.

Missy S. uses a Cutter Kit while Sandy B. stamps, Cheryl S. reaches for a supply, Maria M. uses the Big Shot, and Missy G. waits her turn for the Big Shot.

Beverly P. uses the Big Shot while Michelle H. and Ann B. stamp and Cathy M. takes a break from stamping and shopping.

Framed Butterfly Thanks

This is the last of the cards we made in my Club Classes this month featuring items that can be earned for FREE during Sale-A-Bration.  Enjoy!

Uses Kindness Matters Clear-Mount Set plus Riding Hood Red Card Stock, Not Quite Navy Card Stock, Crumb Cake Card Stock, Not Quite Navy Classic Stampin' Pad, Crumb Cake Classic Stampin' Pad, Riding Hood Red Stampin' Write Marker, Not Quite Navy Stampin' Write Marker, Assortment 1 Waffle Paper, Riding Hood Red 3/8" Pleated Satin Ribbon, Gold Brads, Color Spritzer Tool, Clear-Mount Block A, Clear-Mount Block D, SNAIL Adhesive, Sticky Strip, 2-Way Glue Pen, Paper-Piercing Tool, Mat Pack, Paper Snips, Craft Scissors, Boho Blossoms Punch, Lace Ribbon Border Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, and Designer Frames Textured Impressions Embossing Folders Set.

The Kindness Matters Set is available in Clear-Mount or Wood-Mount and is available for FREE during Sale-A-Bration with a qualifying purchase.  Also available as a FREE choice is the Designer Frames Textured Impressions Embossing Folders Set.

 

Fresh Vintage Samples

The Fresh Vintage Set is one of the exclusive sets you can earn for FREE with a qualifying order during Sale-A-Bration.  It's available in both Wood-Mount and Clear-Mount options.  Once Sale-A-Bration is over on March 31, this set will never be offered again!

Here are a few samples using this set to inspire you.  Enjoy!

Uses Fresh Vintage Sale-A-Bration Clear-Mount Set and Thank You Kindly Set plus Riding Hood Red Card Stock, Very Vanilla Card Stock, Riding Hood Red Classic Stampin' Pad, Riding Hood Red Stampin' Write Marker, Everyday Enchantment Sale-A-Bration Designer Series Paper, Riding Hood Red 3/8" Pleated Satin Ribbon, Antique Brads, Color Spritzer Tool, Clear-Mount Block D, Clear-Mount Block H, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Paper-Piercig Tool, Mat Pack, Craft Scissors, 1-1/4" Square Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, and Hearts Collection Framelits Dies.

Uses Fresh Vintage Sale-A-Bration Clear-Mount Set and Thank You Kindly Set plus Pear Pizzazz Card Stock, Tempting Turquoise Card Stock, Whisper White Card Stock, Tempting Turquoise Classic Stampin' Pad, Tempting Turquoise 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, In Color 2010-2012 Glimmer Brads, Clear-Mount Block A, Clear-Mount Block B, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Paper-Piercing Tool, Mat Pack, Stamp-a-ma-jig, Paper Snips, Craft Scissors, Doily Triple Layer Punch, Lace Ribbon Border Punch, 1/2" Circle Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Standard Cutting Pads, and Circles #2 Originals Die.

Uses Fresh Vintage Sale-A-Bration Clear-Mount Set and Thank You Kindly Set plus Daffodil Delight Card Stock, Pacific Point Card Stock, Whisper White Card Stock, Daffodil Delight Classic Stampin' Pad, Pacific Point Classic Stampin' Pad, Brights Brads, Neutrals Flower Brads, Clear-Mount Block A, Clear-Mount Block B, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Paper-Piercing Tool, Mat Pack, Paper Snips, Postage Stamp Punch, Blossom Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Standard Cutting Pads, and Scallop Circle #2 Bigz Die.

Designer Cuts Designs

I bought a couple of packages of the Designer Cuts Cards & Envelopes Set on page 9 in the Occasions Mini.  I had fun creating different cards using these gorgeous laser-cut cards.  My two Hostesses for the Club Classes in January and the first two ladies to get their complete order to me in January are getting some of these cards in their bags with their January orders as an extra thank you from me.  They are each getting a decorated heart card, a decorated lace border card, and one of the designs undecorated so they can create their own pretty card. 

Here are the designs I created.  Enjoy!

Uses Always Elegant Clear-Mount Set plus Calypso Coral Card Stock, Very Vanilla Card Stock, Calypso Coral Classic Stampin' Pad, 2011-2013 In Color Stampin' Write Markers (Calypso Coral), Designer Cuts Cards & Envelopes Set, Calypso Coral 3/8" Ruffled Ribbon, Color Spritzer Tool, Clear-Mount Block A, Clear-Mount Block G, Stampin' Dimensionals, 2-Way Glue Pen, Mini Glue Dots, Craft Scissors, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, and Hearts Collection Framelits Dies.

Uses Best Friends Forever Clear-Mount Set and Tiny Tags Clear-Mount Set plus Blushing Bride Card Stock, Pear Pizzazz Classic Stampin' Pad, Designer Cuts Cards & Envelopes Set, Lucky Limeade Baker's Twine, Pear Pizzazz 1/2" Seam Binding Ribbon, Twitterpated Designer Buttons, Clear-Mount Block A, Clear-Mount Block D, SNAIL Adhesive, 2-Way Glue Pen, Mini Glue Dots, Craft Scissors, Jewelry Tag Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, and Hearts Collection Framelits Dies.

I did add a backing sheet of Very Vanilla Card Stock to the inside of this next card to help hold the Waffle Paper heart in place.

Uses Loving Thoughts Clear-Mount Set plus Very Vanilla Card Stock, Early Espresso Classic Stampin' Pad, Assortment 1 Waffle Paper, Mocha Morning Specialty Designer Series Paper, Designer Cuts Cards & Envelopes Set, Early Espresso 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Neutrals Designer Buttons, Gold Brads, Clear-Mount Block H, SNAIL Adhesive, Sticky Strip, 2-Way Glue Pen, Mini Glue Dots, Paper-Piercing Tool, Mat Pack, Craft Scissors, Modern Label Punch, Scallop Edge Border Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, and Hearts Collection Framelits Dies.

I used the front of another heart Designer Cuts card as a stencil on this next card.  I just used a Sponge Dauber to apply some of the Shimmer Paint to a piece of Perfect Plum Card Stock through the stencil.

Uses Loving Thoughts Clear-Mount Set plus Perfect Plum Card Stock, Very Vanilla Card Stock, Perfect Plum Classic Stampin' Pad, Designer Cuts Cards & Envelopes Set, Blushing Bride 3/8" Pleated Satin Ribbon, Basic Rhinestones Jewels, Frost White Shimmer Paint, Sponge Daubers, Clear-Mount Block G, SNAIL Adhesive, Sticky Strip, 2-Way Glue Pen, Modern Label Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, Extended Cutting Pads, Hearts Collection Framelits Dies, Movers & Shapers Curly Label Die, and Movers & Shapers Punch Windows.

Uses Mixed Bunch Clear-Mount Set and Curly Cute Clear-Mount Set plus Blushing Bride Card Stock, Very Vanilla Card Stock, Blushing Bride Classic Stampin' Pad, Designer Cuts Cards & Envelopes Set, Pear Pizzazz 1/2" Seam Binding Ribbon, In Color 2010-2012 Glimmer Brads, Clear-Mount Block D, Clear-Mount Block H, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Paper-Piercing Tool, Mat Pack, Paper Snips, Craft Scissors, and Blossom Punch.

Uses Elementary Elegance Sale-A-Bration Clear-Mount Set and You're a Gem Clear-Mount Set plus Wisteria Wonder Card Stock, Very Vanilla Card Stock, Wisteria Wonder Classic Stampin' Pad, Designer Cuts Cards & Envelopes Set, Wisteria Wonder 3/8" Ruffled Ribbon, Basic Rhinestones Jewels, Clear-Mount Block A, Clear-Mount Block B, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Paper Snips, Craft Scissors, Scallop Oval Punch, and Large Oval Punch.

Uses Elementary Elegance Sale-A-Bration Clear-Mount Set plus Baja Breeze Card Stock, Very Vanilla Card Stock, Baja Breeze Classic Stampin' Pad, Designer Cuts Cards & Envelopes Set, Pool Party Baker's Twine, Baja Breeze 1/2" Seam Binding Ribbon, Twitterpated Designer Buttons, Clear-Mount Block B, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Mini Glue Dots, Craft Scissors, Scallop Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, and 1/16" Circle Handheld Punch.
Uses Perfectly Penned Clear-Mount Set plus Regal Rose Card Stock, Regal Rose Classic Stampin' Pad, Designer Cuts Cards & Envelopes Set, Regal Rose 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Basic Pearls Jewels, Clear-Mount Block H, SNAIL Adhesive, Sticky Strip, Mini Glue Dots, and Craft Scissors.

Valentine Stamp Camp Follow-Up

We had fun stamping Valentines yesterday at my Valentine Stamp Camp.  Everyone could make up to 3 of each of these projects if they wanted.  Enjoy!

Uses Candy Conversations a la carte stamp plus Pink Pirouette Card Stock, Whisper White Card Stock, Pool Party Classic Stampin' Pad, Wisteria Wonder Classic Stampin' Pad, Pear Pizzazz Classic Stampin' Pad, 1" x 8" Cellophane Bag, Pool Party 3/8" Ruffled Ribbon, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Mist, Stampin' Scrub, Craft Scissors, Small Heart Punch, Scallop Trim Border Punch, candy, and stapler.

Uses Gnomenclature Set and Gnome Sweet Gnome Set plus Marina Mist Card Stock, Riding Hood Red Card Stock, Daffodil Delight Stampin' Write Marker, More Mustard Stampin' Write Marker, Cherry Cobbler Stampin' Write Marker, Basic Black Stampin' Write Marker, Watercolor Paper, Regals Collection Patterns Designer Series Paper, Attic Boutique Designer Series Paper, Cherry Cobbler/White Baker's Twine, Blush Blossom Stampin' Write Marker, Blender Pens, Jet Black StazOn Ink Pad, Clear-Mount Block C, Clear-Mount Block G, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, 2-Way Glue Pen, Mini Glue Dots, Stampin' Mist, Stampin' Scrub, Paper Snips, Craft Scissors, Full Heart Punch, and Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch.

Uses Grateful Greetings Set and Fresh Vintage Sale-A-Bration Clear-Mount Set plus Blushing Bride Card Stock, Riding Hood Red Card Stock, Whisper White Card Stock, Blushing Bride Classic Stampin' Pad, Riding Hood Red Classic Stampin' Pad, 2010-2012 In Color Stampin' Write Markers (Blushing Bride), Twitterpated Designer Series Paper, Riding Hood Red 3/8" Pleated Satin Ribbon, Color Spritzer Tool, Clear-Mount Block D, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Craft Scissors, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, Hearts Collection Framelits Dies, and Vintage Wallpaper Textured Impressions Embossing Folder.

  Uses Outlined Occasions Sale-A-Bration Clear-Mount Set plus Cherry Cobbler Card Stock, Very Vanilla Card Stock, Early Espresso Card Stock, Early Espresso Classic Stampin' Pad, Cherry Cobbler 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, Basic
Rhinestones Jewels, Cherry Cobbler Stampin' Emboss Powder, Powder Pals, Heat Tool, Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Details, VersaMark Pad, Clear-Mount Block A, Clear-Mount Block C, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, 2-Way Glue Pen, Craft Scissors, Heart to Heart Punch, and Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack.

Uses Send Me Soaring Clear-Mount Set plus Real Red Card Stock, Bashful Blue Card Stock, Whisper White Card Stock, Real Red Classic Stampin' Pad, Bashful Blue Classic Stampin' Pad, Real Red 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Clear-Mount Block B, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, 2-Way Glue Pen, Paper Snips, Craft Scissors, Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch, Pinking Hearts Border Punch, 1" Circle Punch, 1-1/4" Circle Punch, Owl Builder Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, and Heart Pressed Letterpress Plate.

Uses S.W.A.K. a la carte stamp, Petite Pairs Clear-Mount Set, and Dot, Dot, Dot Set plus Cherry Cobbler Card Stock, Whisper White Card Stock, Cherry Cobbler Classic Stampin' Pad, Cherry Cobbler 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, Cherry Scented Stampin' Emboss Powder, Powder Pals, Heat Tool, VersaMark Pad, Clear-Mount Block A, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Mini Glue Dots, Bone Folder, Paper Snips, Craft Scissors, Scallop Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, and Scallop Envelope Bigz Die.

Uses Teeny Tiny Wishes Set plus Real Red Card Stock, Chocolate Chip Card Stock, Whisper White Card Stock, Real Red Classic Stampin' Pad, Brights Collection Patterns Designer Series Paper Stack, Chocolate Chip 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, Brights Brads, SNAIL Adhesive, Sticky Strip, 2-Way Glue Pen, Paper-Piercing Tool, Mat Pack, Paper Snips, Craft Scissors, Blossom Petals Builder Punch, and aluminum foil.

Uses You're My Type Clear-Mount Set plus Concord Crush Card Stock, Rose Red Card Stock, Baja Breeze Card Stock, Whisper White Card Stock, Concord Crush Classic Stampin' Pad, Rose Red Classic Stampin' Pad, Rose Red 1/2" Seam Binding Ribbon, Clear-Mount Block D, Clear-Mount Block G, SNAIL Adhesive, 2-Way Glue Pen, Mini Glue Dots, Paper Snips, Craft Scissors, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, Adorning Accents Textured Impressions Embossing Folders, and Fashionable Hearts Embosslits Die.

Weekly Inspiration

Today's card is very masculine, so it is going to our son in Florida to let him know we miss him!  We're so glad he's got a good job that he likes though and will see him soon for Thanksgiving.

It uses a cool technique where you kind of make your own embossing plate for the Big Shot to give a very subtle impression.  Enjoy!

Supplies

- Gently Falling, pages 16-17 of Holiday Mini, Clear - $28.95, Wood - $39.95

- Teeny Tiny Wishes, page 157, $36.95

- Always Artichoke 8-1/2" x 11" Card Stock, page 179, $6.95

- Neutrals Assortment 8-1/2" x 11" Card Stock, page 180, $6.95

- Always Artichoke Classic Stampin' Pad, page 179, $5.95

- Soft Suede Classic Stampin' Pad, page 180, $5.95

- Early Espresso Stampin' Write Marker, page 180, $3.50

- Soft Suede Stampin' Write Marker, page 180, $3.50

- Mocha Morning Specialty Designer Series Paper, page 183, $12.95

- Early Espresso 3/8" Quilted Satin Ribbon, page 30 of Holiday Mini, $7.95

- Spice Cake Designer Buttons, page 18 of Holiday Mini, $7.95

- Color Spritzer Tool, page 203, $12.95

- SNAIL Adhesive, page 206, $6.95

- Sticky Strip, page 206, $6.95

- Paper Snips, page 208, $9.95

- Craft Scissors, page 208, $29.95

- Paper Cutter, page 208, $24.95

- Replacement Cutting & Scoring Blades, page 208, $5.95

- Tabletop Paper Cutter, page 208, $45.95

- Word Window Punch, page 209, $15.95

- 1-3/4" Scallop Circle Punch, page 210, $16.95

- Scallop Edge Border Punch, pages 210-211, $15.95

- 1-1/4" Circle Punch, page 212, $15.95

- Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine (includes Multipurpose Platform and Standard Cutting Pads), page 215, $99.95

- On Board Sheets, page 216, $6.95

- Leaves #2 Originals Die, page 220, $15.95

Directions

1)  Cut a piece of On Board Sheets (chipboard) to 2 1/2 x 3" using the Tabletop Paper Cutter.

2)  Place the piece of chipboard on top of the maple leaf on the Leaves #2 Originals Die.

3)  Build a sandwich of one Standard Cutting Pad, Die with chipboard on top, and the other Standard Cutting Pad and run through the Big Shot.

4)  Cut a piece of Always Artichoke Card Stock to 4 x 5 1/4".

5)  Close the Multipurpose Platform so no tabs are open.  Place it on the Big Shot.  Place one Standard Cutting Pad on top of the platform.  Place the chipboard leaf towards the right side so the stem is pointing towards the upper right corner.  Place the Always Artichoke rectangle on top of the leaf so the leaf is under the upper right corner.  Place the other Standard Cutting Pad on top and run through the Big Shot.  It will be tight, but should fit with a little effort.  Don't force it though or you could break your Big Shot.  If it seems to tight, try building the sandwich on the platform with tab 2 open instead.

6)  Remove the impressed card stock from the Big Shot and flip it over so you see the impression of the leaf in the upper left corner.

7)  Insert the Soft Suede Marker into the Color Spritzer Tool and spritz some ink randomly onto the impressed card stock.

8)  Insert the Early Espresso Marker into the Color Spritzer Tool and spritz on some more ink.

9)  Cut a piece of lighter stripe design paper from the Mocha Morning Specialty Designer Series Paper to 1 3/4 x 5 1/4".

10)  Punch one long edge of the designer paper strip with the Scallop Edge Border Punch.

11)  Adhere the punched designer paper strip to the bottom of the artichoke rectangle.

12)  Stamp the sentiment from Teeny Tiny Wishes onto a scrap of River Rock Card Stock using Soft Suede Ink.

13)  Punch out the sentiment with the Word Window Punch so it is aligned more to the right side.

14)  Adhere the sentiment to the bottom left side of the artichoke/designer paper rectangle so the left side of the punch out hangs over the edge.

15)  Use Paper Snips to trim off the excess punch out.

16)  Adhere a piece of Early Espresso Quilted Satin Ribbon just below the scalloped edge of the designer paper.

17)  Cut a piece of Soft Suede Card Stock to 5 1/2 x 8 1/2" using the Paper Cutter.

18)  Score the card stock along the 8 1/2" side at 4 1/4" using the Scoring Blade on the Paper Cutter.  Fold in half to make card.

19)  Adhere the artichoke/designer paper rectangle to the front of the card.

20)  Punch a scrap of River Rock Card Stock with the 1-3/4" Scallop Circle Punch.

21)  Adhere the scallop circle to the right side of the card so it is centered over the ribbon.

22)  Ink up the solid acorn image from the Gently Falling Set in Always Artichoke Ink.  Stamp onto scrap paper one time.  Then, without reinking, stamp it onto a scrap of River Rock Card Stock.

23)  Stamp the outline acorn image from the Gently Falling Set in Soft Suede Ink over the top of the artichoke acorn image.

24)  Punch out the acorn image using the 1-1/4" Circle Punch.

25)  Adhere the acorn circle to the center of a Soft Suede Spice Cake Designer Button.

26)  Adhere the button to the center of the scallop circle using Sticky Strip.

Tips

If you don't have On Board Sheets (chipboard), you can try using cardboard instead.  The cardboard that often backs our Designer Series Paper can work well.  You might need to cut a couple of leaves and adhere them together though.

Each Big Shot is slightly different, so experiment to see which sandwich you need to build (tabs closed or open, extra shim of cardboard, etc.).  You want the sandwich to be a little tight as it goes through so that pressure is exerted and you get an impression.  But, it should not be so tight that you have to force a sandwich through the Big Shot, if you do, you could break your Big Shot!

I like to use fairly unmarked Standard Cutting Pads when doing this technique.  If your Standard Cutting Pads are really marked up, the scratches can create impressions in your card stock.  You can buy fresh, new Standard Cutting Pads on page 215 for $8.95.

Remove the cap from the brush tip of a marker to make it easier to insert the marker in the Color Spritzer Tool.

Push the marker down so the nozzle of the Color Spritzer Tool is about half way down the brush tip of the marker.

Make sure to hold the Color Spritzer Tool so that the marker is between the nozzle of the tool and the card stock.

Use short, sharp pumps of the Color Spritzer Tool to get the color to come out.

Don't hold the Color Spritzer Tool too close to the card stock or you'll get large blobs of color.

Juicy, new markers work best with the Color Spritzer Tool.  If you aren't getting any color after a couple of spritzes, try rotating the marker a little bit.

Our Clear-Mount stamps are great for 2-Step Stamping (where you stamp a solid image and then stamp an outline image over it), because it is easier to see where you are stamping.

If you don't have Clear-Mount stamps or just really want to make sure things line up perfectly, try using a Stamp-a-ma-jig (page 207, $11.95).

Because the Spice Cake Designer Buttons are so big, I like to use Sticky Strip to adhere them to projects.

Take It Tuesday

It's Tuesday!  So, it's time for my next Take It Tuesday session. 

You can stop by anytime between 2 p.m and 7 p.m. on any Tuesday.  You don't have to tell me in advance that you are coming, just pop by!

This is a good time to pick up any orders you may have waiting for you, pay me for an order or upcoming event, register for an upcoming event, or place an order.  You can browse through samples I have on display and take pictures of the samples so you can use them for inspiration at home.

I still have retired merchandise out for sale as well, but will be putting it away after the November 15 Take It Tuesday so I can start getting my house ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas.  So, if you'd like to shop from my retired merchandise, please be sure to pop by on a Take It Tuesday soon!

You can also bring any products you may have that you'd like a little extra instruction on how to use and I'll give you a quick lesson.  So, if you have a punch that is giving you trouble or aren't sure what sandwich to use with a Big Shot Die or want some tips on using Wheels, etc. bring them along and get a one-on-one lesson.

If you have cards or cards to donate for Operation Write Home, bring those too!  Please just remember - absolutely no glitter!

I'll also have a couple of quick and easy card projects ready for you to stamp if you wish.  These projects will be different each week.  Cost will be $1 per project made.  You may make one of each of the two cards available if you wish.

Today we'll be making these two cards:

Uses Best Friends Forever Clear-Mount Set and Tiny Tags Clear-Mount Set plus Always Artichoke Card Stock, River Rock Card Stock, Always Artichoke Classic Stampin' Pad, Always Artichoke Stampin' Write Marker, Linen Thread, Always Artichoke 1/2" Seam Binding Ribbon, Beveled Windowpanes, Distressing Essentials, Color Spritzer Tool, Clear-Mount Block A, Clear-Mount Block D, SNAIL Adhesive, Sticky Strip, Cutter Kit, Craft Scissors, Postage Stamp Punch, 1" Square Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, and Framed Tulips Textured Impressions Embossing Folder.

Uses Gently Falling Clear-Mount Set and Thank You Kindly Set plus Pool Party Card Stock, More Mustard Card Stock, Soft Suede Card Stock, More Mustard Classic Stampin' Pad, Soft Suede Classic Stampin' Pad, Spice Cake Designer Series Paper, Early Espresso/White Baker's Twine, More Mustard 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon, Regals Designer Buttons, Clear-Mount Block H, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Craft Scissors, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, and Extra-Large Oval Punch.

Every Tuesday between 2 and 7 p.m. the door is open!  You don't have to be picking anything up or dropping anything off either.  Just pop by and stamp and visit!

Erin's Workshop Projects

I have a Workshop this afternoon for a new Hostess, Erin.  Erin asked that we do a heat embossing project and make a 3D item.

Here's the heat embossing card everyone will get to make:

Uses You Are Loved Clear-Mount Set and Four Frames Set plus Always Artichoke Card Stock, River Rock Card Stock, Always Artichoke Classic Stampin' Pad, Always Artichoke Stampin' Write Marker, Soft Suede Stampin' Write Marker, Chantilly 1/2" Crochet Trim, Mini Library Clips, Gold Stampin' Emboss Powder, Powder Pals, Heat Tool, Color Spritzer Tool, Gold Lame Smooch Pearlized Accent Ink, Gold Glow Smooch Spritz, Color Catcher, VersaMark Pad, Clear-Mount Block D, Clear-Mount Block G, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots, Craft Scissors, and Decorative Label Punch.

I absolutely love the 3D item I came up with.  It's actually really simple to make, but I think it looks really cool!  It can be hung from a door knob and the ribbon is what holds the top closed so it can easily be opened to get to the treat inside without having to tear it up!  These are called "sour cream containers."  We are filling these with candy corn.

Here it is hanging on the door knob:

Uses It's a Wrap Holidays Clear-Mount Set plus Peach Parfait Card Stock, Pumpkin Pie Card Stock, Basic Black Card Stock, Basic Black Classic Stampin' Pad, Basic Black 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Basic Rhinestones Jewels, White uni-ball Signo Gel Pen, Frost White Shimmer Paint, Sponge Daubers, Clear-Mount Block H, SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Crop-A-Dile, Craft Scissors, Curly Label Punch, Extra-Large Tag Punch, Large Tag Punch, Scallop Edge Border Punch, Small Oval Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Multipurpose Platform, Standard Cutting Pads, and Spider Web Textured Impressions Embossing Folder.

As an extra treat for everyone who attends the show, I made extras of these to give out.  Everyone will have a completed one I made and a second one they'll make so they get to home with two.

As a Hostess Gift for Erin, I made this cool little gift card holder that I learned how to make at my upline Jan's house for Diva Day.  I made my own version to give to Erin.  An envelope is sealed and folded in half.  The ends are then cut off to make pockets.  The envelope pockets are adhered inside the folded card stock holder.  A card stock insert with a sentiment is inserted into one pocket and a card stock insert to stick a gift card too is inserted in the other pocket.  Everything is held closed with a belly band.

Uses Snow Much Fun Clear-Mount Set plus Pool Party Card Stock, Not Quite Navy Card Stock, Whisper White Card Stock, Not Quite Navy Classic Stampin' Pad, Basic Black Classic Stampin' Pad, 2011-2013 In Color Stampin' Write Markers (Pool Party), So Saffron Stampin' Write Marker, Not Quite Navy Stampin' Write Marker, Dazzling Details, Clear-Mount Block B, Clear-Mount Block D, Clear-Mount Block G, SNAIL Adhesive, 2-Way Glue Pen, Paper Cutter, Replacement Cutting & Scoring Blades, 2-3/8" Scallop Circle Punch, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, and 1-3/4" Circle Punch.  The inside also uses Whisper White Medium Envelopes, Sticky Strip, and Round Tab Punch.