BEADZ

Good Times with Epiphany Crafts

2012-02-29T08:00:00.001-05:00

This card is so appropriate for today's post - Good Times! That's what I've had the whole time I've been on the DT for Epiphany Crafts. I'm sad to say that this is my last post as a DT, but I've been blessed to be a part of their amazing team for the past year. You can bet that you will still see lots of Epiphany goodies on my projects.

Epiphany Crafts Shape Studio Accessories Bubble Caps Round 14
Epiphany Crafts Vintage Settings Tea Room
GCD Studios Patterned Paper, Chipboard Stickers, Twine, Borders
Bazzill Cardstock

Challenges:
CardPatterns: Sketch

God is Our Refuge

2012-02-28T00:01:00.000-05:00

My favorite way to use Creative Paperclay® modeling material is with a mold - and my favorite things to mold come from my jewelry chest. I have a beautiful, antique carved Victorian cross and thought it would make a fantastic centerpiece for a card. I made the mold using Amazing Mold Putty and used the Delight™ air dry modeling compound to cast it. After it was dry, I painted the cross with Creative Inspirations Paint in Sea Foam, which really went great with my papers. I think this card is one of those that would be lovely framed.

Patterned Papers: Bo Bunny
Cardstock: Worldwin Papers
Dies: Cheery Lynn (Victorian Romance Flourish; Border Carnivale; Cherry Blossoms)
Creative Inspirations Paint: Sea Foam
Stamps: Verve
Delight™ Air Drying Modeling Compound
Amazing Mold Putty

Challenges:
Cheery Lynn: Lots of Layers

Kind of CAS

2012-02-27T06:00:00.002-05:00

This week, the Verve challenge was a Clean and Simple sketch. I have to say, I am CAS challenged! As much as I try, my cards always end up a little too embellished to count as CAS! But, that's ok, I'm glad they turn out looking like me.

Spellbinders Damask Accents
Spellbinders Damask Motifs
Distress Stain - Worn Lipstick
Viva Decor Pearl Pen Cream
Verve Stamp - Fairy Tales
GCD Patterned Papers
Worldwin Papers Cardstock

CottageCutz Treat Bag

2012-02-26T00:00:00.001-05:00

If you are need a cute treat bag to make, I've got one to share with you. When I saw the CottageCutz / Peachy Keen Shower Peepers die from The Scrapping Cottage, I knew what I wanted to make. I always think that shading my die cuts with distress ink adds so much more life to them - but on this little chick, I was having a hard time getting too much ink, so I added it a little different. I used my water pen, and picked up a little Scattered Straw ink for her body, and just a touch of Worn Lipstick for her cheeks. This gave me much more control, and a very light touch of ink. The face is so cute - it's a Peachy Keen stamp that comes with the set (actually you get three different faces so your little peeper can have different expressions).

If you want to make the gift bag, here's how:

The acrylic bubble that I used on the front of the bag is a Flower-Soft Display Globe, but you could also just use a flat piece of acrylic, and cut your opening to any size and shape that you would like.

Cut another strip of paper, 1" x 12" and attach to the sides for a handle. Use dimensional tape to attach your die cut.

If you liked today's post, be sure to mark your calendars for a blog hop on March 17th with Scor-Pal and American Crafts. There will be lots of great tutorials for using your Scor-pal and tons of beautiful papers from American Crafts! And on March 28th, CottageCutz will be having a blog hop, that you won't want to miss either!

Scrapping Cottage Dies: Shower Peepers
Patterned Papers, Buttons: American Crafts Garden Cafe
Acrylic Dome: Flower Soft Display Globe
Distress Ink: Scattered Straw, Worn Lipstick
Water Pen: Close to My Heart

Challenges:
Peachy Keen: Weather/ Three Dimensional

Mixing Creativity with Crystal Lacquer Blog Hop

2012-02-25T00:00:00.004-05:00

Welcome to the Sakura Hobby Craft Blog Hop - Mixing Creativity with Crystal Lacquer. You should have arrived here from Susan Brown's blog - if not, be sure to head back to the Sakura Hobby Craft blog to start at the beginning.

There will be a great prize of three of the Terri Sproul Mixers for one lucky hopper - and one of the artists today will win a prize as well. To be eligible to win, you must leave a comment on the Sakura Blog, telling which project was your favorite (I'm hoping you will vote for mine - lol!)

This will be my last post as a member of the Sakura DT - and I must say I've had so much fun serving on this team. I'm sure the new team will have many fun and amazing projects to share with you! Today I created a page in my art journal. Let me just tell you, this page has some layers!

I painted the background with Creative Inspirations Paints in Evergreen, Aqua Marine, Royal Blue and Tanzanite. I stamped vintage typography with the Unity stamp - SheArt Print Texture. Next, I randomly brushed on some Sakura Crystal Lacquer and sprinkled Terri Sproul Gold Dust Mixer over it. This is so shiny it looks like real gold!

I stamped an embossed a heart from the January SMAK kit using Suzy West's Bay Area Blue embossing powder from Wow. I spritzed the entire page with Ranger Mists and then went back to stamping. I used the numbers background from the December SMAK kit. You can barely see these, but I love how they just add a little more depth to the page. I painted more of the Creative Inspirations Paints onto the Painted Punchinella stamp and randomly stamped that in open areas. I added a sentiment from the Donna + Unity = FABric Creations set. I let some Crystal Lacquer drip down my page, and I added more of the Gold Dust mixer. I then spritzed it again to help blend the whole page together.

The chipboard piece is from Dusty Attic. Again, I used the Gold Dust Mixer and Sakura Crystal Lacquer - but this time, I mixed them thoroughly together and painted it on. I rubbed the edges with the Creative Inspirations paints.

I hope you are enjoying the hop! Don't forget...if you want to have a chance to win the prize, you need to leave a comment on the Sakura Blog, telling which project is your favorite. Now it's time to hop on to Barbara Moore's blog.

Sakura Hobby Craft
Terri Sproul
Amanda Marks
Leslie Rahye
Susan Brown
Gini Cagle (you are here)
Barbara Moore
Gloria
Lyneen Jesse

Challenges:
Unity: Hearts (not red or pink)

Friends With Flair Friday Hop

2012-02-24T12:43:00.003-05:00

It's Friday, so that must mean it's time for another Friends With Flair hop for all of the Unity Stamp lovers out there!

This sweet layout is of my nephew- who is now six years old. I can't believe how quickly he is growing up. When I saw this paper pack, Baby Steps from Simple Stories, I had to do a baby layout! I think it so awesome that Unity has stamps that coordinate with the motifs from the paper. I stamped and embossed the doilies under my clusters, so they just peak out. I was also able to add a stamped hot air balloon, so that it gives the appearance of another balloon in the distance.

Epiphany Crafts Bubble Cap Round 25
Epiphany Crafts Bubble Cap Round 14
Epiphany Crafts Studio Tool Round 25
Epiphany Crafts Studio Tool Round 14
Simple Stories Patterned Paper, stickers, acetate
Wow Embossing Powder
Unity Stamps
Close To My Heart Rub-ons
Glue Arts Perma- Tac

Challenges
Unity: Friends With Flair

May I Have This Dance?

2012-02-24T08:00:00.005-05:00

My nephew is such a ham! I have an antique child's dressform in my studio, and it's the same size as he is. Last week end, he just started dancing with it, and luckily, my camera was nearby.

I used lots of my Wow! Embossing Powders on this layout. The heart border around the edges are from the Gratitude stamp set and are embossed with Suzy West's Bay Area Blue. On the chipboard mannequin, I first covered it with the Ultra High Copper, then I put a coat of the Bay Area Blue over that, and sprinkled in glass glitter. The Bay Area Blue is a transparent color, so the copper still shows through some.

My flowers were die cut with the Sweet William dies from Cheery Lynn, and completely embossed with Suzy West's Eathrtone Honey. I love how substantial embossed flowers are - they have a completely different texture.

Finally, I added Suzy West's Earthtone Olive over the foam letters and sprinkled a little glass glitter over them.

Wow Embossing Powders:
Suzy West Earthtone Olive; Bay Area Blue; Earthtone Honey; Ultra High Copper
Stamps: Wow Gratitude
Patterned Papers: October Afternoon
Cheery Lynn Dies: Sweet William, English Tea Party, French Pastry, Fanciful Flourish, Catherdral Lace Frame
Chipboard: Dusty Attic
Foam Letters: Pink Paislee
Glass Glitter: Art Institute Glitter

Challenges:
Cheery Lynn: Frame It
Helmar: Sketch

Seahorse Bay

2012-02-19T08:00:00.003-05:00

Good morning! I hope your weekend has been splendid! I am so excited to share another card with you today that uses more of the new goodies that are pouring in at Scrap-Mart. When I saw this new stamp set from JustRite, I knew it would have to be added to my collection. It's so cool that it coordinates with Spellbinder's Labels Twenty-Two. I built the medallion up by stamping one of the smaller stamps, and cutting up the frame, and layering it behind the seahorse. The sentiment was cut out from that stamp as well to create a fancy label. The Sea Beauty M-bossablities from Spellbinders was the perfect embossing folder for this stamp - and they give such a wonderful, deep embossed design.

JustRite Sea Shell Bay Labels Twenty Two
Spellbinders Classic Ric Rac Edgeablities
Spellbinders Classic Decorative Inserts Three
Spellbinders Labels Twenty Two
Spellbinders M-Bossablities Sea Beauty
Lindy's Stamp Gang Moon Shadow Ink Buccaneer Bay Blue Mist
Distress Ink
Want2Scrap Pearls

Challenges:
JustRite: Sketch
Stamp and Show: Anything Goes

Love Bandit

2012-02-15T00:01:00.002-05:00

I hope you had a fantastic Valentine's Day! My husband and I went to our favorite Mexican restaurant and it was so yummy! If you are still in the mood for a little romance, perhaps this adorable raccoon will do the trick. Looks like he's heading out of the forest ready for a big date!

I love this pine branch, and thought it would be great to create a little scene.

Frame One
Love Bandit, Raccoon
Pine Cone Branch

Challenges:
Card Patterns: sketch

Home Is Where the Heart Is

2012-02-14T00:01:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day! I hope you will be spending the day with those that you love! I really haven't gotten tired of making Valentine's cards this year, but I guess this will be my last one for awhile.

I have so much fun building up layers on my projects - and this one started out with the bingo card from Simple Stories. I wanted to use the Unity stamp in my center, but needed a pop of color to help it stand out. I used a Tattered Angels embossed chipboard frame and painted it lightly with Creative Inspirations Paint in Autumn Wheat. Then I added just a tiny bit of Burgundy paint on a paper towel, and lightly rubbed over the frame. This really brought out the embossed design quite nicely.

The heart on the stamp has a polka-dot design, so I decided to add a tiny pearl over each of the dots to finish it up.

Challenges
Ippity: L.O.V.E. challenge

Prickley Pear Blog Hop

2012-02-12T00:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Prickley Pear’s release of new clear stamp sets and coordinated dies.

To celebrate this new release we are having a three day long Blog Party with loads of inspirations by the Design Team and a give away! One happy participant will win a $ 20 gift certificate to the web shop. All you have to do is leave a comment on each of the participating blogs and tell us what you think about the new release. Last day to enter is Monday 13th midnight EST. The winner will be drawn randomly at one of the participating blogs, one of the days and will be presented on the Prickley Pear Blog on Tuesday.

I'm getting to have fun again this month, hopping along with the Prickley Pear girls! And next month, I will be the guest designer for Prickley Pear!

I used the new Mini Butterflies Stamp set and Dies to create this card. Don't you just love all of those different little butterflies! I cut the butterfly shapes first, and then stamped them. Since these are clear stamps, it's so easy to line them up with the die cuts. I painted a thin layer of stickles over each of the butterflies, and popped them off the card with dimensional foam.

Hope you’ve enjoyed the last day of our three-day blog party! Be sure to stop back by the Prickley Pear Rubber Stamps Tuesday when they announce the winner. Here’s a list of the hop so you'll be sure to have visited everyone.

Friday

Michelle

Angelica

Audrey

Saturday

Melissa

Ujjwal

Tesa

Kristii

Sunday

Lori

Gini

Amy

Happy hopping, everyone! Wishing you all a Valentines Day!!!

Inspired By Stamping - February Release is Here!

2012-02-11T05:00:00.008-05:00

I hope you have enjoyed all of the beautiful peeks that the I nspired by Stamping design team has shared with you the past two days! Finally, you get to see each of the new releases in their full glory - and the best part, you can buy them today!

Are you ready to see all of the sets? I knew you were! Here goes!

Fancy Labels Three

Fancy Labels Eighteen

Small Fancy Labels Three

Small Fancy Labels Eighteen

Sweet Aviary

Big Wishes

Cupcake Wishes

Friends

Fancy Tags

So now that you've seen all of the sets, here are a few more projects from me - to inspire you.

Stamps: Inspired by Stamping Sweet Aviary
Flowers: Dark Pink Flowers
Patterned Papers: Prima
Cardstock: Core'Dinations
Wow! Embossing Powder - Suzy West Bay Area Blue
Chipboard- Dusty Attic
Sakura: Crystal Lacquer
The Twinery Baker's Twine

Challenges:
Card Patterns: Sketch

Stamps: Inspired by Stamping Fancy Labels 18; The Sky's the Limit
Flower: Large White Curly Flowers
Spellbinders: Labels 18
Bling: Nestabling by Want2Scrap
Patterned Paper: The ScrapCake
Cardstock: WorldWin Papers
Ribbons: May Arts; Webster's Pages

Stamps: Inspired by Stamping Friends; Fancy Labels 18
Spellbinders: Labels 18
Patterned Paper: Simple Stories
Cardstock: Bazzill

Challenges
Mojo Monday: sketch

Stamps Inspired By Stamping Fancy Labels 18, French Boutique
Spellbinders Labels 18
Patterned Papers Kanban Crafts
Wow! Embossing Powder
May Arts Ribbon

Stamps: Inspired By Stamping Cupcake Wishes
Patterned Paper: Melissa Francis
Art Institute Glitter

Here's the rest of the team - go check out what lovelies they have to share with you! And remember to head over to the Inspired by Stamping Store and place your order!

Deb Hickman
Debbie Marcinkiewicz
Gini Cagle (me)
Irit Shalom
Jennie Garcia
Joanna Munster
Kassi Hulet
Kendra Sand
Kim Score
Susie Moore

Cut. Fold. Tuck.

2012-02-11T03:00:00.002-05:00

Have you seen the newest in the Spellbinder's famiy...The cut, fold and tuck dies? Oh my gosh, you are going to love these! This very complicated looking flower took just a few minutes to make. Scrap-mart is now taking pre-orders for the newest products from Spellbinders. I used the Angle Approach, which comes with three dies that can be layered or used alone. I used Core'Dinations cardstock and Distress Inks to acheive 3 shades of pink on the rosette. I bet you noticed the gorgeous embossing on this card too.... Yep, those are the brand new M-bossabilities embossing folders, also from Spellbinders. These are so cool, because each folder has two different designs that look great together. This is the Sea Beauty which is one of my favorites. I think Spellbinders introduced 20 different folders - so that's 40 new designs. Ahhh, be still my heart! I love them and I know once you get your hands on them, you are going to feel the same!

Friends With Flair Friday Hop

2012-02-10T15:50:00.002-05:00

I love how versatile the SMAK kits are from Unity. These stamps are perfect for layouts and mixed media pieces, but they are also fun for cards. My papers are from Kanban Crafts.

Challenges:
Unity: Friends With Flair

Inspired By Stamping - February Release Day Two Preview

2012-02-10T05:00:00.006-05:00

It's the second day of previews for this month's stamp release from Inspired by Stamping! We are releasing 9 sets this month, and I've got plenty of cards to share with you today. Remember, all of these gorgeous stamps will be available for purchase on Saturday - along with the full reveal of the sets!

Stamps: Inspired By Stamping Fancy Labels 18, Small Fancy Labels 18
Flowers: Mixed Colors of Flowers
Spellbinders: Labels 18; M-bossabilities Sea Beauty
Metallic Cardstock: Kanban Crafts
Cardstock: Bazzill

Stamps: Inspired by Stamping Cupcake Wishes
Spellbinders dies: Fleur De Lis Squares
Patterned Paper: Echo Park
Cardstock: Bazzill
Sakura Crystal Lacquer, Terri Sproul Mixers
The Twinery Baker's Twine

Stamps: Inspired By Stamping Sweet Aviary; Friends
Spellbinders: Ribbon Banners
Patterned Paper: Prima
Cardstock: Worldwin Papers

Stamps: Inspired by Stamping Friends, Fancy Labels 18
Spellbinders: Angle Approach
Patterned Paper: Crate
Cardstock: Bazzill
Bling: Kaisercraft

Are you getting curious to see the whole release? Well then come back tomorrow - you won't be disappointed!

Now, here's the rest of the team - go check out what lovelies they have to share with you!

Deb Hickman
Debbie Marcinkiewicz
Gini Cagle (me)
Irit Shalom
Jennie Garcia
Joanna Munster
Kassi Hulet
Kendra Sand
Kim Score
Susie Moore

Inspired By Stamping - February Release Day One Preview

2012-02-09T05:00:00.007-05:00

It's the first day of previews for this months stamp release from Inspired by Stamping! We are releasing 9 sets this month, and I'm going to be highlighting four of the sets! Plus, Joanna has added some gorgeous flowers to the store, and we will be giving you a taste of those as well! So get ready to be inspired!

Stamps: Inspired by Stamping Fancy Labels 18; Small Fancy Labels 18
Flower: Shabby Pink Flowers
Spellbinders: Labels 18
Memory Box Die: Meridian Border
Patterned Paper: The ScrapCake
Cardstock: WorldWin

Stamps: Inspired By Stamping Small Fancy Labels 18
Spellbinders: Labels 18, Scalloped Edge Frame
Patterned Papers: Simple Stories
Cardstock: Bazzill

Stamps: Inspired By Stamping Sweet Aviary; Friends; Fancy Labels 18
Spellbinders: Elegant Posts
Patterned Paper: Prima
Cardstock: Bazzill
Pearls: Want2Scrap

Stamps: Inspired By Stamping Cupcake Wishes
Flower: Medium Daisy Flowers
Spellbinders: Damask Motifs, Damask Accents
Patterned Papers: Authentique
Cardstock: Core'dinations
Pearls: Want2Scrap

We'll be showing you the entire sets on Saturday, but be sure to check out what the rest of the team created over the next two days!

Deb Hickman
Debbie Marcinkiewicz
Gini Cagle (me)
Irit Shalom
Jennie Garcia
Joanna Munster
Kassi Hulet
Kendra Sand
Kim Score
Susie Moore

From Paris With Love

2012-02-05T17:10:00.005-05:00

I'm sliding in with less than an hour to go for the challenge at sweet Debbie's Shabby Tea Room! The challenge was a picture inspiration with lots of fun red and white - and to also use a postal element. Not only did I use the JustRite Stamps (Greetings From Paris) with my postcard theme, but I used the Postage Stamp Spellbinders, and even used a peel-n-stick gold sticker with a stamp edge around my heart. My fancy heart was cut using the Quickutz Nesting Doily hearts, and the card base was cut with their Nesting Hearts die set. I embossed my stamped images with Wow! Embossing Powder in Cable Car Red, which is a really clear, bright red that I love!

Challenges:
The Shabby Tea Room: Picture Inspiration + mail theme
JustRite: For the Love Of...

Hoot Loves You?

2012-02-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

Have you seen the Valentine release from CottageCutz? It's so cute! And I have a sweet pair of love birds to share with you. These owls (Hoot Loves You) are just adorable, and by leaving off the hearts, you could use them for anything!

Challenges:
Simon Says: Animal Antics

Ready, Set, Spring

2012-02-04T00:00:00.001-05:00

I have been so spoiled this winter...as I'm writing this post the sun is shining and it's been in the 60's this week. I know there is probably some wintery weather still heading my way, but I'm happy for all of the pretty days! What better time than now to share a Spring layout with you! I used so many fun techniques on this piece to really build some interesting layers.

Do you love this little embellishment? I had a vintage celluloid charm that's been in my jewelry drawer for ever. I used Amazing Mold Putty to make a mold of it - and it was time to cast away! I poured it up using the Amazing Clear Cast and after it set, I painted it with Creative Inspirations Paint (beige). Now I can make these little trinkets over and over again.

This Dusty Attic Chipboard chair was covered heavily with Wow! Embossing Powders Ultra High Copper. The Ultra-high powders create a ton of texture. Next, I used the Wow! Brocade stamp set to stamp over the copper and embossed in the Suzy West Presidio Purple and Tea Garden Green. I love how you can see the hint of pattern, like worn antique upholstery would look.

I used my Cricut to cut the paper doily and random stamped over the cut, again using the Brocade stamp. The Presidio Purple was used over the green designer paper to create a custom patterned paper. I also added some of the Copper powder around the edges of the layout.

Spring makes you take notice of all of the little things around you, and I hope that I have inspired you to add these extra touches to your layouts.

Friends With Flair Friday Hop

2012-02-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

I absolutely love the new release of Spellbinders dies - and since I design for Scrap-Mart, I'm one of those very lucky girls who ends up with some of these brand new releases early! So today, I thought I would show off some of the dies from the Damask Accents and my Unity Stamps from the Simple Stories line ( the patterned paper is also Simple Stories - Baby Steps).

I stamped the flower/doily from Unity's Generations set, using Wow! Embossing powders in Honey and Paprika. I fussy cut these out, but wrapped parts of my Damask cuts around the flower. The leaves and border are also dies in this set. I have to tell you, the Damask Motifs and Accents were my very favorite sets this go round (although, I have a list a mile long of all of the sets I have to have!) Scrap-Mart is accepting pre-orders now, and the dies are expected to ship the end of this month. So what are you waiting for? Head over there now!

Challenges:
Unity: Friends With Flair Hop
The Craft's Meow: sketch

Love Cast in Clay Blog Hop with Creative Paperclay and Amazing Mold Putty

2012-02-01T00:00:00.010-05:00

Welcome to the Love Cast in Clay blog hop with Creative Paperclay® and Amazing Mold Putty! You should have arrived here from Barbara Moore's blog, if not, you may want to start back at the beginning with the Creative Paperclay® blog so you don't miss anything! We have great inspiration for you as well as awesome prizes! A winner will be choosen from both Amazing Mold Putty blog and Creative Paperclay® Blog to receive a 16oz package of Creative Paperclay® and package of Amazing Mold Putty. In order to win you must leave a comment on all blogs as well as become a follower of each blog.

I love making embellishments for my cards and layouts, and when I noticed a pea-pod ornament on my Christmas tree, I set it aside to make a mold that I could use year round.

Amazing Mold Putty is so easy to use! It is a two-part putty, that you mix equal parts together and press your object to be molded into it. You can then use the mold over and over again.

Since this embellishment was kind of large, I didn't want it to weight my layout down too much, so I used the Delight ™ Air Dry Modeling Compound, which is lighter in weight than the Paperclay. I just pressed the Delight into the mold, and let it dry.

After my pea-pod was dry, I painted it with a base of Creative Inspirations Paint. Next, I used the new Terri Sproul Mixers and Sakura Crystal Lacquer to make my pod look almost like porcelain.

Now that I've shared my project with you, it's time to hop on to Brenda's blog!

Full Hop List

Paperclay

Terri Sproul

Amanda Mark:
Lori Williams

Barbara Moore

Gini Cagle (you are here)

Brenda

Jennifer Ingle

Lyneen Jesse

Aimee Fleck

Robyn

Dee Dee Catron

Debbie Buckland

Carole Lassak

Jan Hennings

Tamara Dozier

Niki Meiners

Edie cournoyer

Leslie Rahye

Sandra strait

Peg Round

Susan Brown

Amazing Mold Putty

Challenges:
Helmar: Sketch

Paris in the Springtime

2012-01-29T13:29:00.005-05:00

I'm determined to get through this winter by making loads of springy projects! Do you think if I make enough, spring will actually get here sooner? These papers from the ScrapCake certainly are the perfect palate to bring some sunshine!

Challenges:
Prickley Pear: Sketch
Sisterhood Sundays: Photo Inspiration -SS8
Stamp and Show: Song Title

It's CHA Time

2012-01-28T19:58:00.003-05:00

I am so blessed to work with some of the best companies in the Scrapbooking Industry. And if you are at CHA, then you need to check out these booths, while you are there!

I used the new Wow! Embossing Powders on my red heart. Suzy West has done an incredible job putting together wonderful collections of powders in the best colors and different textures. All I can say is this ain't your mamma's embossing powders! Be sure to check them out at Booth #2700 and join in on the Wow Party!

Epiphany Crafts is a rock star in the embellishment world. Their tools and epoxies are always a sell out, and it's no wonder....they are so easy to use! I used the Shape Studio Tool Round 14, and the Bubble Caps Round 14 to make my own custom epoxies. They have added some new tools that you are going to go crazy for, so please stop by Booth #2978.

Finally, Worldwin Papers have the best cardstock around! I used their Kraft paper as the base of this card, and I love, love, love it! They are introducing new products geared towards the beginner scrapper that otherwise might be overwhelmed. But, if you are an avid scrapper, don't let that stop you - their CutMates paper will let you cut the most intricate shapes perfectly using your Cricut or other die cutters. Be sure to check them out in Booth # 1950.

I'll also have work in the Sakura Hobby Craft Booth #844 and the Alumilite Corp Booth #2252. Please be sure to stop by all of these booths and tell them that Gini Cagle sent you!

Love Shack

2012-01-28T10:55:00.003-05:00

The Valentine's Release from CottageCutz is so adorable. I'm thrilled to share a card with you today using the Love Shack Die. This is so cute it just makes me smile every time I see it! This is a pretty simple card, but when you want your die cut to be the star of the show that's all you need!

Challenges:
Simon Says: Anything Goes
Stamp and Show: Name of a Song

Friends With Flair Friday Hop

2012-01-27T00:01:00.000-05:00

There is so much excitement going on right now over CHA - and I really wish I were going to be there! At least my work will be there in several booths -including the Sakura Hobby Craft Booth. Sakura will be introducing the new Terri Sproul Mixers - a fantastic way to add color into the Sakura Crystal Lacquer. I've used some of these on my card today - the Red Satin and Gold Dust. I was able to paint this onto my paper and stamp right over it. It gives a really cool, almost metallic look. I know you are going to love it!

Speaking of love...did you notice the stamp set that I used? Kokeshi Cuties from Unity? This is such a fun set, and I loved combining the set with these gorgeous origami papers.

Have a great weekend!

Challenges:
Unity: Friends With Flair
Simon Says: Anything Goes

Golden Cameo

2012-01-27T00:00:00.002-05:00

The design team from Creative Paperclay® Modeling Material, was lucky to get to choose a mold from Articus Studio Design to play with! They have so many cool molds, I had a hard time making up my mind, but finally decided on the Cameos Flexible Rubber Art Mold.

I used the Delight™ air dry modeling compound, and pushed it into the mold and let it dry before I removed it. I used the new Terri Sproul Mixers/Sakura Crystal Lacquer to color the cameo, with an elegant, Old World feel.

I can see so many possibilities for these molds - jewelry, home decor, any kind of paper craft....

I hope you will check them out and give them a try. You will love how they work with the Creative Paperclay!

Delight™ Air Dry Modeling Compound
Sakura Crystal Lacquer
Terri Sproul Mixers - Gold
Lifestyle Crafts die
Kanban Crafts Metallic Glaze Salerno - Beige CRD9754
Kanban Crafts Crystal Glittered Acetate

Challenges:
Love My Tapes: sketch
Simon Says: Anything Goes

With Love

2012-01-26T06:00:00.002-05:00

Do you love making paper flowers? I really do - and there are so many wonderful tools to help you make gorgeous flowers at Scrap-Mart! I began with some Heartfelt Creations stamps - which coordinate with Spellbinders dies - so you don't have to spend tons of time fussy cutting your petals. To help shape my flowers, I always use the McGill mat and tools. You simply lay your flower down on the mat, take a ball tool, and start at the outer edge of the petal and pull towards the center. This instantly gives your flowers beautiful and natural shaping. Since we are still stuck with winter, I think it's great to bring spring early with some paper blossoms!

Heartfelt Creations Bella Rose Die
Heartfelt Creations Carnation Florals 1 Stamp set
Heartfelt Creations Carnation Florals 2 Stamps Set
Heartfelt Creations Inspire Me Sentiments Stamp Set
Spellbinders Carnation Creation Shapeabilities
Quickcutz 4x4 Heart Doily Die
McGill Paper Blossoms Craft Molding Mat
McGill Paper Blossoms Paper Tool Kit and Case
Grand Calibur Die Cut Machine
Distress Ink
ScrapCake Papers - The Bright Side of Life
Wow! Embossing Powder - Suzy West Earthtone Blueberry
Kaisercraft Sparklets

Challenges:
Sisterhood Sundays: Photo Inspiration
CPS: Sketch

Best Buds!

2012-01-25T00:01:00.000-05:00

Hi Scrappy Friends! I have a layout to share today that celebrates the friendship my sister Lori has had with her best friend Rachel for the past 30 years. It's hard to find true friends and I would say that they have both been blessed !

I thought it would be fun to use the title "Best Buds" as a play on words for all of the lovely flowers I made using one of the newest dies from CottageCutz - Sweetheart Flowers Layered. This is a wonderful flower die, that you can combine in so many different ways for so many different looks. Mine are a little on the distressed side, with lots of crumpling and shaping, and and heat embossing. But here's the package, to give you an idea of another way to make these flowers.

If you would like a chance to win a $25 gift certificate for CottageCutz, then be sure to check out our monthly challenge. This month, all you have to do is make a scrapbook page using any CottageCutz die. Easy Peasy!

I used the Wow! Embossing Powder in Regular Peach, not only to emboss my flowers, but also the stamped scalloped circle using the Brocade stamp (also from Wow), and the chippie letters.

Challenges:
A2Z Scraplets: Sketch

MFT and Scor-Pal Hop

2012-01-24T12:00:00.008-05:00

Welcome to the Scor-Pal and My Favorite Things hop! I hope you are ready for a ton of inspiration! You can find the entire list of designers that are participating, along with the prize details, on the Scor-Pal Blog.

For my project, I decided to change the tea-light card holder up a little bit, to make it the perfect way to present some Kisses for Valentine's Day. So here's a peak at the inside of my project.

To begin, cut a cardstock base 10 1/4" x 8"(I used WorldWin Papers - Kraft). With the long side placed on the upper fence of the Scor-Pal, score at 1/2", 1 1/4", 2 3/4", 3 1/2", 5", 9 1/2"

Next turn the paper a quarter turn, so that the short side is now along the upper fence. Score at 3/4" and 7 1/4"

Trim as shown below.

Cut a window on the third panel in, leaving a quarter of an inch margin around the edges. Use Scor-tape around the opening, and attach a piece of clear acrylic for the window.

Fold the box portion of the card inwards, and use Scor-Tape on the outer flap to anchor the box to the card base. **I added patterned paper, and my candy kisses to the inside of the box before closing the box up.

For the front of the card, cut a base of 6 3/4" x 6 1/2 ". With the longer side at the top of the Scor-Pal, score at 3/4". Put Score-tape on the under side of the tab, and attach to the base of the card. Decorate the front and inside as you wish.

For my project, I used MFT's Ladybug from the Pure Innocence line (which I completely love every stamp in this collection!). I colored her with Copics, but she was a little too bright for the vintage look I wanted, so I swiped the entire image with Tea Dye Distress ink. I love how this looked with the Kraft paper. MFTs also has a wonderful line of dies - the Die-Namics! I used the Dizzy Border. Look how delicate those cuts are! Just fabulous!

Just Another Brick In The Wall

2012-01-24T00:01:00.001-05:00

I have an Urban/Grungy Valentine card for you today. I've been seeing so many cool projects with brick backgrounds, and wanted to give it a try. I had the Tim Holtz brick embossing folder, so that's where I started. I painted one side of the folder with Tickled Pink paint from Creative Inspirations. I ran a piece of Echo Park paper (with text graphics) through the folder - to give a graffiti look. Next, I rubbed Pumice Stone Distess ink over the wall, to tone it down a bit and highlight the details. I used stamps from Unity to finish out my city card.

Here's a picture of the brick wall before it was added to the card, so you can see the textures.

Have a great week!

Peacock Proud

2012-01-23T06:00:00.001-05:00

It's cold and dreary here - so I thought a bright card might be just the bit of cheerfulness that we could use! I'll admit, it's much brighter than I normally design with, but isn't that what Peacocks are all about?

Kanban Birds of Paradise stamp
Kanban -The Cavendish Ladies Pin Stripe - Chiffon Pink CRD9848
Kanban - Guilded Cage - Blush PCT9950
Kanban -A4PRL240FU
Wow! Embossing Powers: Copper Regular, Suzy West Collection - Presidio Purple
Want2Scrap Pearls

Challenges:
Card Patterns: Sketch

Splish Splash with WorldWin Papers Kraft paper!

2012-01-21T21:43:00.001-05:00

If you love Kraft paper, you are going to be thrilled with the quality of WorldWin's Kraft. I love it! Be sure to stop by their booth at CHA to see for yourself. If you are not attending the show, please be sure to ask your local scrapbook store to carry it!

Splish Splash: Kraft
Worldwin Papers Kraft
Worldwin Papers ColorMates Smooth Red
Cricut Cartridge: H2O
Sizzix/ Tim Holtz Scrollwork die
Spellbinders Circle Die
Cuttlebug Embossing folder - Kassie's Brocade

GlueArts Glue Glider Pro with Perma Tac Adhesive

Butterfly Blue Thank You

2012-01-18T03:00:00.003-05:00

It's time for me to share another project with you, using some of the fabulous things you can get from Scrap-Mart. And you know, Scrap-Mart always tends to get their new Spellbinders before any one else, so, if you've been making your wish list during the big Spellbinders reveal, then head to Scrap-Mart and you can place a pre-order.

For this card, I combined several JustRite Stamp sets along with several Spellbinders die sets. I love how these two lines coordinate with an infinite number of combinations. It makes them sets that you just keep coming back to, time and time again.

JustRite Musical Notes Labels Twenty
JustRite Botanical Butterflies
JustRite Vintage Floral Labels
JustRite You Inspire Me
Spellbinders Ironwork Motifs
Spellbinders Labels Twenty
Spellbinders Circles
Patterned Papers - The ScrapCake
Wow! Embossing Powders, Suzy West Collection, Earthtone Pepper
Distress Ink: Tumbled Glass, Broken China, Tea Dye
Viva Decor Pearl Pen
Mermaid Glitz Stickles
Sakura Crystal Lacquer
Copic Sketch Markers
Want2Scrap Pearls

Challenges:
CardPatterns: sketch
JustRite: Photo Inspiration
Berry71Blue: Shabby

Birdcage Card

2012-01-15T02:01:00.000-05:00

You can never have enough thank-you cards, so I thought that this lovely Birdcage die from CottageCutz would make a very elegant and feminine card for a friend of mine. I fussy cut the papers from the ScrapCake and nestled an Eyelet Edger diecut behind the flower. The ticket is from the Ticket Booth set and the sentiment was a rub-on from Kaisercraft. Finally, one of the Vintage Keys seemed like a sweet way to finish this card off.

A Walk In the Park

2012-01-14T14:46:00.006-05:00

My sister, Lori, and I are hosting the challenge this month at CottageCutz dies - and it's super easy! We just want to see you use your CottageCutz dies on a layout. The random winner will get a $25 gift certificate! To get you started with some inspiration, here's a layout that I made last night.

CottageCutz Dies: Blossom Branch, Scallop Three Edger, Floral Doily
Spring Awakening Papers from the ScrapCake
Epiphany Crafts Studio Tool Round 14
Epiphany Crafts Round 14 Bubblecap
Epiphany Crafts Vintage Settings
Unity Stamps - All Worth It
Wow! Embossing Powders: White
Wow! Embossing Powders, Suzy West Collections: Earthtone Pepper, Bay Area Blue
Pink Paislee Chipboard Letters
Worldwin Papers Cardstock
Jillibean Soup Alphabet Stickers
Want2Scrap Pearls
Ranger Distress Stain
Versamark Ink

Inspired By Stamping - January Release is Here!

2012-01-14T05:00:00.003-05:00

I hope you have enjoyed all of the beautiful peeks that the Inspired by Stamping design team has shared with you the past two days! Finally, you get to see each of the new releases in their full glory - and the best part, you can buy them today!

This is the set I've been designing with - Be My Valentine.

There are so many cute elements there to enjoy! I'm sure you will have tons of ideas for ways to use this versatile set.

Now, here's the rest of the team - go check out what lovelies they have to share with you!

Amber Goble
Deb Hickman
Debbie Marcinkiewicz
Gini Cagle (me)
Irit Shalom
Jennie Garcia
Joanna Munster
Kassi Hulet
Kendra Sand
Kim Score
Susie Moore

Card Storage Tutorial with Epiphany Crafts

2012-01-13T12:01:00.002-05:00

I make lots of cards, but have found that keeping them organized by occasion can be difficult. I'm going to show you how to take a simple box from your pantry and recycle it into the perfect storage solution. This is also a lovely way to present someone a set of cards as a gift.

Save a suitable box from your pantry. This one was 6.25 inches wide, so it was the perfect size to hold 6 x 6 cards.

Measure up 6.75 inches from the bottom, draw a line at that measurement around the box, and cut the top away.

On the right side, make a mark 2.5" from the bottom. Draw a diagonal line from the upper left corner to the mark on the lower right side. Repeat for the other side and cut along the lines.

You now have the basic shape for your holder. Prime the box with Gesso to help cover over the print.

Now the fun begins - Cut patterned papers to cover the box. I stamped/embossed my papers before I attached them. Use Crafty Power Tape to adhere the papers.

Add a tag to label what type of cards are in each box - this one was for Thank-you cards. After the box was complete, I realized the buttons and bows would have been more functional on the back spine, so you could stack several of these side-by-side.

Supplies
Epiphany Crafts Button Studio Accessories Buttons Round 20
Epiphany Crafts Button Studio Tool Round 20
Scrapbook Adhesives Crafty Power Tape
Patterned Papers Riddersholm Design
Stamps Unity
Wow! Embossing Powder Copper Regular
Metallic thread DMC
Memory Box Charlotte Border Die
Verve Tiny Sweet Scallop Die
Fiskars Scallop Punch
May Arts Ribbon
Ranger Distress Ink

Challenges:
Unity: Gift Wrapping Challenge
Friends With Flair: Friday Hop
Berry71Bleu Challenge: Shabby

Prickley Pear Blog Hop

2012-01-13T09:00:00.007-05:00

Welcome to Prickley Pear's new release of Valentines and Steampunk themed Red
Rubber Stamps!

To celebrate this new release we are having a three day long Blog Party with
loads of inspirations by the Design Team and a give away! One happy participant
will win a $ 15 gift certificate to the web shop. All you have to do is leave a
comment on each of the participating blogs and tell us what you think about the
new release. Last day to enter is Sunday 15th midnight EST. The winner will be
drawn randomly at one of the particpating blogs, one of the days and will be
presented on the Prickley Pear Blog on Monday.

I made a canvas (although I may turn it into the cover of a mini-book later), using the Steampunk Locomotive stamp. I embossed the image with Wow Earthtone Pepper powder and fussy cut the image. The gears were cut with a Spellbinders die from Grunge paper, and colored using Sakura Crystal Lacquer and the new Terri Sproul Mixer Jewel Effects - Gold Dust, Glitter Red and Bronze Satin. I also stamped parts of the wheel elements, glazed them with the Sakura Crystal Lacquer and used them for the centers of the gears. It's always fun to find new ways to use stamps!

Here's the rest of the list to visit today. Remember, there will be more blogs to visit tomorrow. Have fun!

Prickley Pear Blog
Lori
Amy
Gini (you are here)

Challenges:
Stamp and Show: Red Letter Day
Simon Says: Stripes

My Wow Team Day!

2012-01-13T08:00:00.004-05:00

The Design Team for Wow! Embossing Powders is rather large, so we were divided into teams. My team, the Powder Puff Girls, is lead by the very talented Gina Lideros. Today my team mates have posted some gorgeous layouts on the Wow! blog, that I'm sure you won't want to miss.

Here's the layout that I created. It will be in the CHA booth in just a couple of weeks :)

The stamp set is one that Suzy West designed that is called Build a Butterfly - and you get to do just that - you can mix and match the layers to create variations in your butterflies - and then all of the different colors of embossing powders - and they are stunning!

I used Tsukeniko's Goosebumps spray to mist my background and then sprinkled with the powders. I really love this effect!

Wow! Embossing Powders: Suzy West Earthtone Olive, Earthtone Honey, Bay Area Blue, Metallic Copper Regular
Wow! Build a Butterfly Stamp
Pion Designs Patterned Papers
Worldwin Papers Cardstock
Versamark Ink
Versamark Ink pen
Tsukineko Goose Bumps
Lifestyle Crafts Die
Epiphany Crafts Round 14 bubble cap, Round 25 bubble cap, vintage setting
Pink Paislee letters
Want2Scrap Pearls

Inspired By Stamping - January Release Day Two Preview

2012-01-13T05:00:00.003-05:00

It's the second day of previews for this month's stamp release from Inspired by Stamping! We are releasing 4 sets this month, and this is my second card using the Be My Valentine stamp set. Remember, all of these gorgeous stamps will be available for purchase on Saturday - along with the full reveal of the sets!

Don't you just love these heart-shaped balloons? The heart frame is also from this set. Are you getting curious to see the whole release? Well then come back tomorrow - you won't be disappointed!

Now, here's the rest of the team - go check out what lovelies they have to share with you!

Amber Goble
Deb Hickman
Debbie Marcinkiewicz
Gini Cagle (me)
Irit Shalom
Jennie Garcia
Joanna Munster
Kassi Hulet
Kendra Sand
Kim Score
Susie Moore

Challenges:
Card Patterns: sketch

Inspired By Stamping - January Release Day One Preview

2012-01-12T05:00:00.006-05:00

It's the first day of previews for this months stamp release from Inspired by Stamping! We are releasing 4 sets this month, and this is the one that I will be sharing with you - Be My Valentine.

We'll be showing you the entire sets on Saturday, but be sure to check out what the rest of the team created over the next two days!

Amber Goble
Deb Hickman
Debbie Marcinkiewicz
Gini Cagle (me)
Irit Shalom
Jennie Garcia
Joanna Munster
Kassi Hulet
Kendra Sand
Kim Score
Susie Moore

Love You to the Moon and Back

2012-01-10T03:00:00.000-05:00

Do you have a hard time making masculine cards? Especially for Valentine's Day? Try picking up a very boyish paper, like Rocket Age from October Afternoon. I paired it up with a sentiment that made it perfect (from My Favorite Things). Adding the Heart Circles die from Spellbinders also gave another hint towards the big day, without being at all girlish. You can pick up all the goodies that you need for your Valentine's projects at Scrap-Mart.

Feb. 14 Card

2012-01-10T00:01:00.000-05:00

So now that Christmas is over, and you are starting to recuperate from all of those Christmas cards that you made - it's time to start working on Valentine's cards!

I started this card by embossing Black Ice Dust cardstock from Worldwin Papers with a Cuttlebug folder. Next I painted over the whole thing with Creative Inspirations paints in Fuchsia and a second coat in Blush. After it was dry, I sanded over the top, which exposed some of the black cardstock.

(Two different variations - black cardstock and pink cardstock)

I also got a chance to play with some of Creative Inspiration's new glitters for the heart. I used a Spellbinder die, and cut a large sheet of Scor-tape. I removed one side of the backing paper and completely covered the heart using the Resplendence Regal Red Glitter. I put the heart back into the die and used the stenciling openings to put a small amount of glue along the shape, and fill that in with the Resplendence Gold glitter. I let this dry completely and then removed the other side of backing paper and adhered the heart to my card. Hope you will try some of these techniques out!

Kanban Crafts Card

2012-01-09T22:30:00.003-05:00

Kanban Products

Moulin Divas- Black PCT9878
Black Damask-Red CRD1353
A4MRS/GO

Just a quick card to share with you tonight to show the gorgeous Kanban Crafts papers.

Challenges:

CPS: sketch

Simon Says: New Something (papers)

WOW! Gratitude Card

2012-01-08T08:00:00.003-05:00

Have you seen the new Wow! Embossing Powders blog? If not, what are you waiting for?!! Let me just tell you, you are going to fall in love with these embossing powders! and the stamps? Pure wonderful!

For this card today, inked one side of an embossing folder with Versamark ink, and ran the paper through a Cuttlebug machine. When it came out, I sprinkled it with the Suzy West Earthtone Pepper embossing powder and heat set it. It filled in the recessed areas with wonderful pepper-colored texture that I just adore.

The leaves and the sentiment are from the new Gratitude stamp set (a must have!) They were embossed as well. Notice how great the sentiment embossed. It's very clear and super easy to read. The true sign of a great embossing powder.

Supplies

Wow! Embossing Powders: Suzy West Tea Garden Green,
Suzy West Earthtone Pepper
Wow! Gratitude Stamp Set
Crate Paper
Worldwin Papers Cardstock
Sizzix embossing folder
Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge
Epiphany Crafts Round 14 bubble cap, vintage setting
Memory Box die
The Twinery Baker's twine
Want2Scrap Pearls
Versamark Ink
Heat GunCuttlebug

Challenges:
Simon Says: Something New (Brand new Embossing Powders and Stamp - to be released at CHA)
Stamp and Show: Something Old, Something New (New - embossing powders, Old - felt flower)
Papertake Weekly: Anything Goes

Start Going Through Your Jewelry Drawers!

2012-01-06T00:00:00.001-05:00

I hope today's necklace will have you ooohing and ahhhing! And when you see what the original piece looked like, you will really be amazed!

I've always loved jewelry, and can't even begin to tell you where all of the drawers full of old pieces have even come from! This antique lapel pin had beautiful designs, but it was just pot metal, and not very attractive. So out comes the Amazing Mold Putty!

After my mold was complete, I wanted to try "dusting" areas of my design with Metallic Powders .I took a small dry paint brush, picked up a light amount of the powder and tapped it into the flower designs.

I had mixed up some of the Amazing Clear Cast, and added a little green tint to it using the Alumilite Dyes.

I slowly poured the green Amazing Clear Cast into the mold - and these were my results - not bad for a first try.

But after I had a nice cast, I could see there were many details that I could have highlighted that I didn't. So since I already had my mold, I was ready to try again. This time, I used more colors of powders and really took my time filling in the mold. I used the Amazing Clear Cast without any dye this time - and here were the final results -

I love how this turned out! So, don't overlook junk jewelry - they can be your new treasures!

You Are So Beautiful

2012-01-02T00:01:00.001-05:00

I hope your 2012 is starting off great! I think this is going to be such a wonderful year, and I hope it is for you as well! Today marks the beginning of my weekly posts for Scrap-Mart. I've loved shopping from Scrap-mart for years, and am beyond thrilled to be designing for them!

When I was deciding what I would make for my project today, I noticed we had gotten in a large shipment of stamps from Heartfelt Creations - Now, what I didn't know was that we would put them on sale for 40% off - and that so many of them would sell out! Lucky for you, this stamp, the Bella Rose Vintage Background stamp is still in stock. I love all of the Heartfelt Creations stamps, but I have to say I think this one is a favorite of mine!

The Design Team for Scrap-Mart will be posting on their own personal blogs and on the Scrap-Mart Facebook page - so make sure to friend us on Facebook, and watch for lots of great inspiration, special deals for friends only and maybe a contest or two!

Supplies
Quickutz Border Dots
Heartfelt Creations Bella Rose Vintage Background Stamp
Crate Paper Farmhouse Collection Kit
Want2Scrap Pearls
Waterfall Stickles Glitter Glue
Copic Sketch Markers
Tim Holtz Distress Inks
Grand Calibur Die Cutting Machine
Worldwin Papers Cardstock

Challenges:
Touch Twin Marker : color challenge

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T00:01:00.002-05:00

Pin It

Happy New Year! I pray that 2012 will be full of many blessings for each of you! May you find happiness, peace, health and prosperity throughout the coming year. Oh, and lots of creativity too!

Supplies:
Patterned Paper: Pion Designs
Cardstock: Worldwin Papers Roquefort
Stamps: Our Daily Bread Designs
Embossing Powder: Wow!
Dies: Cheery Lynn
Epoxies: Epiphany CraftsChipboard: Tattered Angels
Ink: Ranger/ Tim Holtz Distress Ink

Challenges:
Our Daily Bread:Anything Goes with ODBD stamps
Cheery Lynn: Celebration
Simon Says: Anything Goes

Penny Black/ Flower Soft Blog Hop

2011-12-30T03:01:00.005-05:00

We're kicking off 2012 in style with our very first Blog Hop featuring artwork using Penny Black stamps and Flower Soft. You'll be inspired by the Designers' creative projects as you hop along their blogs. Join us for a weekend-long celebration!

PRIZES

3 random comment authors will be chosen to receive brand new 2012 Penny Black Valentine stamps. Just leave a comment on this post as well as the Designers Blogs to be in the running.

GRAND PRIZE

Use one of the Penny Black Designer’s Blog Hop projects as inspiration and create a new Penny Black stamped project. Upload it into our Gallery by the end of the Hop with the tag “pennyblackbloghop”. Be sure to let us know which project inspired you! A winner will be chosen to GUEST DESIGN at the Penny Black Blog!

WINNERS

Winners will be announced on Wednesday, January 4^th at the Penny Black Blog.

I have a springy card to share with you today - I know it's wishful thinking, but a girl can dream, can't she?! I love this little bunny from the Garden Friends stamp set - and she was perfect to accessorize with the Flower Soft. This will actually be my last post as a designer for Flower Soft. I've really enjoyed being on the team, and you know I will keep adding those sprinkles to my projects!

Penny Black Garden Friends Stamp
Flower Soft Colors:
Polar White
Sunshine Yellow
Marigold
Amethyst Diamond Range
Ultra-fine Sage
Ultra-fine Ocean

Happy New Year! Here’s your blog hop order, off you go!

Penny Black

http://pennyblackinc.wordpress.com/

Jen Buck, Flower Soft

http://www.thebuckstampshere.blogspot.com

Jenyfur Pohl, Penny Black
http://torn-paper.blogspot.com/

Lisa Murphy, Flower Soft

http://www.atimetodesign.blogspot.com/

Kathy Racoosin, Penny Black
http://thedailymarker.blogspot.com/

Jeanne Streiff, Flower Soft

http://inkypaws.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/

Elizabeth Allan, Penny Black
http://elizabethallan-blog.blogspot.com/

Gini Cagle, Flower Soft (You are Here)

http://ginicagle.blogspot.com/

Jill Foster, Penny Black
http://stampinginspiredby.blogspot.com/

Linda Beeson, Flower Soft

http://pkod.blogspot.com/

Kelley Eubanks, Penny Black
http://myfrontporch-kelley.blogspot.com/

Debbie Seyer, Flower Soft

http://www.debbieseyer.com/

Cathy Andronicou, Penny Black
http://candronicoucardcraft.blogspot.com/

Dina Kowal, Flower Soft

http://mamadinis.blogspot.com/

Peet Roeven, Penny Black
http://scrapalbum.blogspot.com/

Cibele Glazer, Flower Soft

http://flowerfoot.blogspot.com/

Flower Soft

http://www.flower-softinc.blogspot.com/

Challenges:
Papertake Weekly: Sketch
Simon Says: Anything Goes

WOW!

2011-12-29T16:41:00.004-05:00

WOW! Not only do I have some WOW! Exciting news for you, but it actually is WOW! That's right - the name of Suzy West's new product line is WOW! and I've been invited to be one of her designers! The line will be previewing at CHA and I will have projects in the booth to show you just how fabulous this new line is!

Our new blog http://www.wowembossingpowders.blogspot.com/ just went live, so you need to head over and join, because, I've heard rumors there are going to be some great giveaways, that you won't want to miss!http://www.wowembossingpowders.blogspot.com/

So here is the team!

Time to Relax

2011-12-27T03:00:00.004-05:00

Wow! What a whirlwind this Christmas has been! I know the holidays aren't quite over yet, but this year is quickly winding down, and the perfect time to kick back and relax! I hope today's card will inspire you to do the same!

Creative Inspirations Paints
Fuchsia
Ivory
Antique Copper
Burnt Clay
Blush
Beige

Kanban Products
Vintage Tags Ruby PCT 9113
Stamp 9038
Metallic Glaze Sorento - Coffee Brown CRD9741
Pearl A4PRL240IV
Copper A4MRS/CO

Creative Paperclay and Viva Las Vegastamps!

2011-12-27T00:00:00.002-05:00

This month, Creative Paperclay® Modeling Material has had the chance to play with Viva Las Vegastamps! When I was picking out my stamps, I had a mixed media piece in mind, with a chicken theme. I have to admit, it just didn't turn out how I planned, so I made a fun card with my own egg embellishments.

I used the Children with Cat and Chickens stamp. I love how it looks like a vintage photo, but it really is a stamp! To make my eggs, I rolled out some Delight™ Air Dry Modeling Compound into an egg shape, let it dry a little bit, and then, sliced the back off so it would lie flat on my card.
I colored the eggs with Distress Stains, and after that was dry, covered them with Sakura Crystal Lacquer. These eggs could be really fun for your spring and Easter projects too! The Delight™ really is a delight to work with - it's very light weight, snow white and clean to mold. I love working with it!

I think it's cool when one idea doesn't work out the way that you think it will, but it leads you to something new on your creative journey.

Thank You Gnome

2011-12-25T00:01:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas! I hope you are getting to spend time with your family and loved ones! I have a thank you card to share with you today. I know I will have lots of thank-yous to send out, so this will get me started!

I used the adorable Mr. Gnome die, Mushroom and Flowers die, and Flowervine Edger dies from CottageCutz. This little gnome is just so cute, he makes me smile!

Crafty Secrets Home Decor

2011-12-19T11:00:00.003-05:00

The Crafty Secret Girls have been sharing with you some ideas this month using our new CD #2. I've made a kitchen shadowbox, and used it to highlight an old spoon that I painted shabby white. I added vintage buttons around the frame for more interest. The red paper on the interior of the frame is one of the black and white PNG images , simply printed on the paper color of choice.

Please be sure to check out the Crafty Secrets Blog for more inspiration!

Scor-Pal and Authentique Paper Hop

2011-12-17T08:00:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the Scor-Pal and Authentique Paper Blog Hop! You should have arrived from Emily Lanham's blog, if not you may want to go back and start at the Authentique Blog, so you don't miss anything. The Scor-Pal designers were lucky enough to get to work with the Splendid Collection. It really is beautiful. I created this Card Pouch from a template at Splitcoast Stampers.

Here you can see the pouch open with the cards inside. This would make a wonderful last minute gift (which also happens to be the challenge theme this month at Scor-pal, if you would like to play along!) Using the Scor-pal and Scor-tape, this holder is really quite easy to put together.

Here's the pouch with some of the cards out of the box.

It's time to hop on to Misty Buck's blog, but before you go, don't forget to leave a comment, for your chance to win a paper package from Authentique or a Scor-Buddy from Scor-pal. Blog comments will close on Monday, December 19th at 11:59 pm (Pacific Time). Winners must have a Canadian/USA address. Winners will be announced on Wednesday, December 21 on the Scor-Pal and Authentique Blogs.

Blog Hop Order:

Authentique Paper – http://authentiquepaper.blogspot.com/

Tifany DeGough - http://inkblotsbytrd.blogspot.com/

Steph Ackerman - http://www.stephaniescraps.blogspot.com/

Emily Lanham - http://createserendipity.blogspot.com/

Gini Cagle - http://www.ginicagle.blogspot.com/

Misty Buck - http://mistylynnwhat.blogspot.com/

Lisa Andrews - http://www.scrappingwithlisa.blogspot.com/

Brenda Smith - http://theimperfectscrapper.blogspot.com/

Katie Tate - http://bothsidesofthepaper.blogspot.com/

Cristine Redmond - http://onescrappynovice.blogspot.com/

Kittie Franken - http://kittyfranken.blogspot.com/

Scor-Pal – http://scor-pal.blogspot.com/

Window Shopping Tag

2011-12-17T00:01:00.002-05:00

Well, I haven't played all 12 days of tags from Tim Holtz, but I'm having fun trying to get as many done as I can. This is my version of Day 10 (although the only thing that is similar to mine and Tim's is the Santa charm that I made). I love the Graphic 45 Christmas Emporium
paper, and as I was looking thought it, saw this adorable scene that inspired my tag. The Graphic 45 paper pads always have two pages of each design, so I was able to fussy cut my window shoppers and pop them up from the base. I used several Tim Holtz dies for this tag - Tag and Book plates die for the base, Typeset Alphabet for my "Window Shopping" words, and Vintage Lace die for my accents. I cut these all using my Vagabond machine (which is a fantastic machine). The bling is some of Want2Scrap's gorgeous line that coordinates with Spellbinders dies (or you can use them alone like I did here). My small tag was from Canvas Corp, and I inked it up with some Peeled Paint Distress Ink. Maybe if I keep making tags, I can actually get my presents wrapped for Christmas!

Challenges:

Tim Holtz: Tag 10

Creative Inspirations Holiday Hop

2011-12-16T04:00:00.008-05:00

Christmas is almost here! Are you ready? If not, maybe you will get a few last minute ideas from the Creative Inspirations Design Team. If you are one of those highly organized individuals who has been ready for months, than maybe we will inspire you to create something for next year!

I took some inspiration from Tim Holtz 12 Days of Tags - but of course, had to change things up a bit using Creative Inspirations Paint. I stamped and embossed my tag, and then, painted over the images with Rustic Red, and the wiped the excess off of my embossing with a paper towel. Next, I covered the entire tag with clear embossing powder and heat set it. For the holly and poinsettia, I painted Worldwin Vellum with Garnet and Emerald. After the paint was dry, I cut the shapes with dies, creased the paper a little and added them to the tag. I made a custom charm using Epiphany Crafts Shape Studio Tool Round 14, the Shape Studio Accessories Bubble Caps Round 14 , and the Metal Charms Round 14.

Creative Inspirations Paint
Barb
Carla
Caro le
Dawn
Gini
Kassi
Kendra
Kianel
Creative Inspirations Paint

Now, your letter that you need to collect from me is M. So, you are ready to hop on to Kassi's blog!

Challenges:
Tim Holtz Tags: Day 9

Flying By To Say Hi

2011-12-15T00:01:00.001-05:00

I think I have been making Christmas projects since August - so I decided I needed a little break from the Holiday festivities! So I've got a card that is a little bit more spring inspired! I love the layering of the dies and patterns - I just think it makes for a fun card!

CottageCutz Dies

Bird With Flowers
Ornate Circle Frame
Leafy Foliage
Scallop Three Edger
Eyelet Edger

Other
October Afternoon Papers
Inspired By Stamping The Sky's the Limit stamp set
Want2Scrap Pearls
Worldwin Papers Cardstock

Challenges:Card Patterns: sketch

Frosty Tag

2011-12-15T00:00:00.002-05:00

I've been trying to sneak in the 12 Days of Tags with Tim Holtz - so for my last post for the Robin's Nest, I was able to take on Tim's Day 4 challenge! I changed things up a bit, though, so I could use some sparkly Robin's Nest Papers.

Did you know that the glittered areas on Robin's Nest papers act as a wonderful resist? My snowman was cut out of White Snow Glitter Cardstock, but then I used Distress Stain in Broken China to change the color and to really highlight the designs. Next, I painted over the image with Rock Candy Crackle Paint. After it was dry, I rubbed Faded Jeans Distress Ink into the cracks. I think this was a fun change for the tag!

I've enjoyed being on the DT for the Robin's Nest for the past six months and although I didn't reapply for a second term, I know the ladies staying on will continue to inspire you, and the new crew as well! Thanks for your generosity throughout my time with you!

Robin's Nest Products
White Snow Glitter Cardstock
Creme Awning Silver Glitter
Chipboard Snowflakes
Velvet Ribbon

Challenges:
Tim Holtz tags: Day 4

So Sweet with Crate and Epiphany Crafts

2011-12-11T03:00:00.003-05:00

Crate Paper's Peppermint Collection is just fabulous! The papers can be used boldly or can be used soft and shabby as in this card.

Areas of snow were highlighted using Crystal Art Glitter.

Products
Crate Paper Peppermint Collection Superior Quality Chipboard
Crate Paper Peppermint Collection Patterned PapersCrate Paper Peppermint Collection Superior Quality Trims
Crate Paper Peppermint Collection Border Stickers
Epiphany Crafts Shape Studio Tool Round 14
Epiphany Crafts Shape Studio Accessories Bubble Caps Round 14
Epiphany Crafts Vintage Settings Tea Room
Art Glitter Crystal Ultrafine Transparent Glitter
Sizzix Embossing Folder Leaves and Diamonds
Want2Scrap Pearls
Scrapbook Adhesives 3D Foam Squares
Scrapbook Adhesives MyStik Repositionable

Challenges:
Simon Says: Christmas Photo Inspiration

Inspired By Stamping - December Release is Here!

2011-12-10T05:00:00.001-05:00

Today is the big day - you can now order The Sky's the Limit from Inspired by Stamping! I hope you've enjoyed the projects that the DT has shared for the past two days - and now that we can show the whole set, we've got one more day to play with it!

The canvas was first painted with Creative Inspirations Paint (Sea Foam). After this was completely dry, a second layer of paint was dabbed on with a foam sponge( Tanzanite). The balloons were stamped over this layer using Staz-on Ink. Next a coat of Fairy Dust paint was spread over the entire surface, and immediately sprinkled with UTEE( Ultra Thick Embossing Enamel) - and melted with a heat gun. This process was repeated a second time to create more texture. The clouds were stamped on vellum, cut out and glued on with Sakura Crystal lacquer. The dark blue paint ( Aqua Marine) was spread over the bottom portion of the canvas, and the excess was wiped away with a paper towel. The balloons were stamped, embossed, cut and adhered with foam dots. This piece has so much texture in person.

Thanks so much for stopping by, and be sure to check out what the rest of the team has come up with!

Amber Goble
Deb Hickman
Debbie Marcinkiewicz
Gini Cagle (me)
Irit Shalom
Jennie Garcia
Joanna Munster
Kassi Hulet
Kendra Sand
Kim Score
Lesley Croghan
Susie Moore

Epiphany Crafts and Crate Paper

2011-12-10T01:30:00.004-05:00

It's always fun to use Epiphany Crafts products in new ways. Try using twine instead of paper to make a festive peppermint candy button.

Remove the paper backing from a Button Round 20 Epoxy. Use a pin to "open" the button holes and thread twine through the two holes. Use this green twine as a handle to hold the button, as you start wrapping red twine from the outside in. Clip the red twine when you reach the center. The adhesive on the back of the epoxy makes this technique so easy - with no mess!

Tie a small bow with the remaining green twine.

Use 3D Foam Squares to attach the candy to your project.

The MyStik adhesive dispenser by Scrapbook Adhesives is the perfect take-along for crops. Not only can you use it with various refills, but you can customize it, so it doesn't get mixed up with anyone else.

Epiphany Crafts Button Studio Accessories Buttons Round 20
Scrapbook Adhesives 3D Foam Squares
Scrapbook Adhesives MyStik Repositionable
Crate Paper Peppermint Collection Superior Quality Trims
Crate Paper Peppermint Collection Border Stickers
Crate Paper Peppermint Collection Alpha Labels
Crate Paper Peppermint Collection Superior Quality Chipboard
Crate Paper Peppermint Collection Paper Collection
The Twinery Baker's Twine

Challenges:
Mojo Monday: Sketch

Inspired By Stamping - December Release Day Two Preview

2011-12-09T05:00:00.001-05:00

It's the second day of previews for this months stamp release from Inspired by Stamping! I'm sure you were inspired by all of the great projects you saw yesterday, and we hope you enjoy today just as much.

My project for today is a card - and I love how it turned out! This is such a fun set to layer and paper piece.

We'll be showing you the entire set on Saturday, but be sure to check out what the rest of the team created. And you will want to make sure to stop by the Inspired by Stamping Blog for a chance to win this set before you can buy it!

Amber Goble
Deb Hickman
Debbie Marcinkiewicz
Gini Cagle (me)
Irit Shalom
Jennie Garcia
Joanna Munster
Kassi Hulet
Kendra Sand
Kim Score
Lesley Croghan
Susie Moore

Challenges:
Card Patterns: Sketch

Friends With Flair Friday Hop

2011-12-09T00:01:00.001-05:00

It's tag time!! And today I've got a tag to share with you that I made using Unity/Samantha Walker's Greetings of Christmas stamp set. I made my tree background with gold peel sticker from Sparkraft Enterprises and filled it in with Green Pearl Crystal Lacquer.
I love the dimension that it created.

Thanks for stopping by!

Challenges:
Unity Friend with Flair
Simon Says: Photo inspiration
Tim's 12 Days of Tags: Day 2

Inspired By Stamping - December Release Day One Preview

2011-12-08T05:00:00.006-05:00

It's the first day of previews for this months stamp release from Inspired by Stamping! I think you are really going to enjoy this set, which is called The Sky's the Limit.

I've been seeing all kinds of fun, altered sewing spools, and when I saw these stamps, I thought this would be the perfect time to try my hand. I did sneak in a stamp from the Delicate Doilies set for the top of my spool - but the others are from the new release.

We'll be showing you the entire set on Saturday, but be sure to check out what the rest of the team created today and tomorrow! And you will want to make sure to stop by the Inspired by Stamping Blog for a chance to win this set before you can buy it!

Amber Goble
Deb Hickman
Debbie Marcinkiewicz
Gini Cagle (me)
Irit Shalom
Jennie Garcia
Joanna Munster
Kassi Hulet
Kendra Sand
Kim Score
Lesley Croghan
Susie Moore

Scor-Pal and Jillibean Soup - Yum Yum

2011-12-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

This week the Scor-pal Designers are excited to be sharing some last minute gift ideas using product from our friends at Jillibean Soup.

You'll want to stop by each the Scor-pal blog day this week for new ideas and to leave a comment. Next Monday we will choose one random comment from the week to win a Scor-buddy. Which is perfect for creating last minute gifts or given as a gift for the special crafter in your life.

Also, be sure and stop by the Scor-pal Fan Page and leave a comment too because we will be giving away a Scor-Tape prize pack over there to someone who left a comment both there *and* on the blog. Because, after all, when you are making special gifts you want them to stay together and you want the best ;)

Of course, be sure and stop by the Jillibean Soup Blog too because they are playing along with Scor-pal this week as well!

Are you one of those people that shake your boxes at Christmastime to try and figure out what is inside? Well here is a little box that I made with my Scor-Pal and Jillibean Soup's Christmas Eve Chowder line, that might just surprise you!

It's called a Secret Box and I found the tutorial at Splitcoast Stampers.

It looks like a cute little cube, until you open it and ...

There are secret drawers waiting to be filled with little treasures!

Using my Scor-Pal and Scor-tape not only made this a breeze to make, but it really made it quite sturdy. I honestly can't imagine trying to put together any type of box and not using my Scor-tape for the strength and ease. And the papers from Jillibean Soup were just adorable ! I fussy cut the penguins and let them decorate each of the panels. I also added a little bling from Want2Scrap - love the variety that they have!

I hope this gives you an idea for a fun and easy last minute gift!

Flower Soft Challenge- Think Snow

2011-12-07T03:00:00.000-05:00

There is a new Flower Soft Challenge - Think Snow. Now, I'm not really a fan of the white stuff, unless it's made with Flower Soft Polar White - and it's on my cards and not in my yard! So, I think at least for today, I'm safe.

I love how adding just a little of the Polar White, really gives my projects so much texture.

If you want to check out the prize for this challenge, and see what the other designers came up with, just head over to the Flower Soft Blog!

Challenges:
CPS: sketch

Scrap-Mart Holiday Blog Hop

2011-12-05T10:00:00.002-05:00

Hi! Today is my first official day to post for the Scrap-Mart Design Team, and let me tell you, it's a biggie! Scrap-mart has paired up with the following amazing companies to bring you an incredible Holiday Blog Hop filled with generous prizes!

Heartfelt Creations (Dec. 7th)

Each of the generous manufacturers will have prizes for you along the way so be sure visit and complete the hop each day from Dec. 5th through Dec. 10th to be eligible to win. If you are just joining in, be sure to head over to the Scrap-Mart blog to start the hop from the beginning.

Scrap-Mart is giving away an autographed Tim Holtz Vagabond die cutting machine, A $500 Spellbinders Bundle AND a Boss Kut Gazelle digital die cutter. To be eligible to win, you MUST like/fan us on Facebook AND follow the giveaway link on the left side of our page.

Winners will be chosen from those who sign up through this page...not by blog comments!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Scrap-Mart/262889273751324?v=app_197602066931325&app_data=%26wlbb%3D1

Now here are my projects!

Canvas Corp Layout

I had so much fun playing with all of the goodies that Canvas Corp sent us! I had a hard time narrowing down my choices of what I wanted to use (in other words, it was all so gorgeous, I was trying to figure out a way to use it all at once!) After much deliberation, I decided on a canvas layout. This picture is of my mom and sister last year at Christmas. I have to admit, I don't have my decorations up yet this year, so I had to use a picture from last year.

The 12 x 12 canvas was natural and I misted it with Tattered Angels. After it was dry, I inked the edges with Gathered Twigs Distress Ink. I machine stitched some of the papers onto the canvas.

Supplies
Canvas Corp Fabricpage
Canvas Corp Star Fabric Shape
Canvas Corp Christmas in Kraft Papers
(Cherry in Kraft Swirl, Kraft Red and Green Holly Berries, Cherry in Kraft Diamonds,
Green and Kraft Ribbon Stripe, Green and Kraft Mini Dot Reverse)
Canvas Corp Red Waxed Cotton Cord
Lifestyle Crafts/Quickutz Joy Die
Lifestyle Crafts Flourish Cookie Cutte r Shape Die
Spellbinder's Grand Calibur Die Cutting Machine
Spellbinder's Grand Circles
Gathered Twigs Distress Ink

Heartfelt Creations Card

I really love Heartfelt Creations (in fact I was previously on their Design Team) - so I was thrilled to receive the Poinsettia Bells and Bows Stamp. It's such a lovely, traditional Christmas stamp, and the sentiment is gorgeous!

I colored the metal part of the bells with Viva Decor Inka Gold, and then rubbed Vintage Photo Distress Ink over the top, to give it an antiqued look. The rest of the stamp was colored with Copics.

Supplies

Heartfelt Creations Poinsettia Bells and Bows Stamp
Heartfelt Creations/Spellbinders Decorative Lace Border Die
Spellbinders Labels 21 di e
Spellbinders Grand Calibur Die Cutting Machine
Want2Scrap Pearls
Pink Paislee Father Christmas Paper Pad
Copic Sketch Markers
Vintage Photo Distress Ink
Viva Decor Inka Gold
Worldwin Cardstock

October Afternoon Holiday Style Layout

When I first starting looking at this incredible collection by October Afternoon, I knew I wanted to make a clustered layout that really would highlight all of the adorable die cuts and stickers that coordinated with this paper line. Now I have to admit, I completely made this layout the day before we went to the Christmas Parade! So, I knew I had to get a good picture for my project!

Supplies

October Afternoon Holiday Style Papers ( Figgy Pudding, Snow and Mistletoe, Ring-a-Ling)
October Afternoon Holiday Style Sticky Keys
October Afternoon Holiday Style Flower Sack
October Afternoon Holiday Style Miscellany
October Afternoon Holiday Style Found Alpha
October Afternoon Holiday Style Shape Stickers
October Afternoon Holiday Style Label Stickers
October Afternoon Holiday Style Word Stickers
October Afternoon Holiday Style Wrap PackOctober Afternoon Holiday Style buttons
Distress Ink Festive Berries
Creative Inspirations Paint - Emerald

More Christmas Cheer!

2011-12-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

I've certainly been having fun creating lots of Christmas projects! For today's card I used Snowman in a Mug from Cottage Cutz. I made hime into a Christmas card, but you could certainly use him for any winter projects.

Thanks for looking!

Making Your Own Acyrlic Lace Embellishments with Amazing Mold Putty

2011-12-04T00:00:00.001-05:00

I love old needlework and lace- but sometimes have a tendency to hoard the really pretty pieces, because I don't want to use them. I've found a way though, that I can use these antique pieces to make my own acrylic versions using Amazing Mold Putty and Amazing Casting Resin.

I have had this lovely needle lace flower for years - and just never had the project that I thought was worthy of using it. To make the lace ready to mold - I stiffened it using Helmar's Fabric Stiffener and Draping Liquid. I let it dry completely, and then started my mold. Although this is a very shallow mold, it still was a rather big one.
I rolled the putty flat, and pressed the flower into the putty, being careful to press all of the areas evenly.

You can see that the mold is very shallow. I poured the Amazing Casting Resin carefully. I still had some areas that "spilled" over into areas that I didn't want the resin, but I just let it dry, and trimmed the over-fill away with scissors.I painted my "lace" with Creative Inspirations Paint in beige, to give it an antique textile look. Now I can make the piece over and over again, and never have to worry about running out. Don't you love how much of the stitch detail you can see from the mold? It really is amazing!

PSA Essentials & CottageCutz Holiday Card Blog Hop

2011-12-02T00:01:00.008-05:00

Hi! and welcome to the PSA Essential and CottageCutz Holiday Card Blog Hop! Our two design teams have joined forces to bring you lots of holiday inspiration, along with a chance to win some fabulous prizes! You should have arrived from my friend Jeanne Streiff's blog, if not you may want to start at the beginning, so you don't miss a thing.

PRIZE PACKAGE DETAILS: Readers who hop to each of the blogs, comment at each, and are a follower of PSA Stamp Camp will be entere d to win the “Holiday Card” prize. This prize contains 3 Peel & Stick stamp sets, 1 stamper, 1 black ink & 1-2 color ink from PSA Essentials. The winn er will also receive a $50 gift certificate to The Scrapping Cottage for the gr and prize. There are also 9 opportunities to win a 3 x 3 die from T he Scrapping Cottage.

I made a Nativity scene using Nativity Set Mary, Joseph and Baby, and Nativity Set, Animals and the Nativity Angel. I put together a little paper creche to house my set, and just attached tabs to the back of the figures to make them stand up. I love how sweet this turned out!

Now it's time to hop along to Erika Taylor's blog - don't forget to leave comments along the way! If you get lost along the way - here's a full list of the hop participants:

· www.kcreatedbykay.blogspot.com - Kay Norman

· http://www.thecountrychiccottage.net - Angie Holden

· www.thethinkinspot.blogspot.com - Lorie Souther

· http://paperiepetals.blogspot.com - Kim Schofield

· www.maisymary.blogspot.com - Pearl Liu

· www.lingshappyplace.blogspot.com - Vera Yates

· www.stampingwithjanice.blogspot.com - Janice Wilson

· www.simpleflourishes.com - Jennifer Holmes

· www.pinkcloudscrappers.blogspot.com - Lori Leng

· http://inkypaws.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/ - Jeanne Streiff

· www.ginicagle.blogspot.com - Gini Cagle

·· www.taylordconcepts.blogspot.com - Erika Taylor

· www.fantastink.blogspot.com - Meylssa Connolley

· www.handmadebyangelica.com - Angelica Suarez

· www.sweeetdesignsbycheryl.blogspot.com - Cheryl Walker

· http://maearmstrong.blogspot.com - Mae Armstrong

· http://scrappingcottage.blogspot.com/ - The Scrapping Cottage

· www.psastampcamp.blogspot.com – PSA Essentials

Robin's Nest Wreath

2011-12-01T00:00:00.001-05:00

I have a festive wreath to share with you today. I pulled out lots of Robin's Nest papers in fall colors and started cutting them with Filigree Fall Leaves die by CottageCutz. To give you an idea of the size of this piece, it is laying on a 12 x 12 sheet of paper - so it's pretty big. After I cut them all out, I put Scor-tape on a chipboard ring, and started attaching each leaf by the stem, and alternating leaning to the left, then to the right.

I finished the wreath off with a box and an Acorn Leaf Vine flourish.

Isn't it fun seeing all of those Robin's Nest papers together?

Here's a list of the ones that I used:
Distressed Honeycomb
Green Stencil
Glitter Leaf
Fleur Tropicana
Red Paisley
Glitter Brown on Brown

Creative Paperclay Verdi Angel Ornament

2011-11-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

Do you like making your own Christmas ornaments? Here's one that I made using Creative Paperclay® modeling material. I had a pair of antique cherubs that I love, and thought they would be perfect as my model.

I made a mold of my angel using Amazing Mold Putty. Through trial and error, I figured out that my original angel had too many undercuts, and to make a cast of the full original just didn't work out how I had planned. But, my angel head, was perfect. So I just added the modeling material to that portion of the mold - making sure to press it firmly into all the details. I let it dry completely and then removed it.

I painted an undercoat of Creative Inspirations Paint in Emerald all over the cherub and let this dry.

Next, I rubbed Viva Decor Inka Gold (which is kind of waxy) all over the angel. Only little bits of the green base showed after I did this - and really helped to accentuate the fine details. I cut some wings using a Tim Holtz die and glued them to the back of the ornament.

I added a loop and bow to hang the finished piece, and now it's ready for my tree (although I'm not ready for my tree!)

Thanks for looking!

Friends With Flair Friday Hop

2011-11-25T21:33:00.005-05:00

It's Friday, and that means it's time for another Friends With Flair Friday Hop with Unity Stamps. I love Samantha Walker's Blossom Stackers set - there are tons of ways to use these stamps. Today, it was perfect for a birthday card for my sweet husband (whose birthday is tomorrow!)

Thanks for looking!

Challenges:
Basic Grey: Go Bold With Color

Mark Your Calendars

2011-11-25T15:46:00.002-05:00

I am so thrilled that I was chosen to be on the Scrap-Mart's DT for the next year! I've always loved shopping at Scrap-mart! Not only do they seem to always get the new Spellbinders before anyone else, they also always have the best prices - not only on Spellbinders, but Sizzix, Quickutz - and every other crafty thing your heart might desire! We will be starting things off with a bang with this year's Holiday Blog Hop. It will take place Dec. 5th-10th and will begin each day on the Scrap-Mart Blog. You will see projects from the current design team as well as be introduced to next year's designers (that's where I come in ). We will be joined in the hop by these great manufacturers:

Spellbinders (guest designer featured on our blog)

Not only will you get tons of holiday inspiration, each of these amazing companies will be giving away some fabulous prizes. Boss Kut is giving away a Gazelle digital cutter...a $529 value in itself!!! Trust me, this is one hop you won't want to miss!!!

So, mark your calendars and be sure to head to the Scrap-Mart blog on Monday, December 5th!

The Christmas Season is Officially Here!

2011-11-25T02:00:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is officially behind us and Christmas-time is here! I hope you had a very blessed Thanksgiving and had time to enjoy your family and loved ones. We are all so blessed and it is so great to have a day that reminds us of that! But now, Christmas is really here - so let the carols play on the radio, let the tinsel sparkle, and let's finish all of those Christmas cards that we said we would finish in July, and we just haven't gotten them done.

I used the Christmas Fawn Die from CottageCutz for today's project. Don't you just love all of the details? I had to add a little Sakura Crystal Lacquer to her little red nose. Also, did you notice my stamped seam binding? I thought that was a perfect place to add my sentiment. The stamp came with the Boxwood Vine Wreath set - and I keep using it over and over again!

I hope you have a wonderful holiday season. Don't forget to check out the special Black Friday release from CottageCutz!

Challenges:
Card Patterns: sketch

News from Crafty Secrets and New Samples

2011-11-25T01:30:00.001-05:00

You have probably heard by now that Crafty Secrets is going to be phasing out of the clear stamps, and going to digital versions. So starting today, all of their stamps will be on sale, until they are all gone. Here are some of the details, taken from the Crafty Secrets blog:

The SALE on Clear Art Stamps starts this Friday in our Shopatron Store while supplies last. Maybe a company will want to license some Clear Art Stamp Sets, but for now the sale will run until the stock sells out.

Large Clear Art Stamps originally $24.99 on sale for $19.99
Medium sets reg $14.99 on sale for $12.99
Small Clear Art Stamp Sets reg $7.50 on sale for $5.99 starting Friday!

The other big news, is that the new CD - Creating with Vintage Illustrations is available today! I've made a couple of samples with the brilliant illustrations that are included on the CD. Be sure and check out the rest of the DT's blogs this week to see tons of inspiring ideas!

Oh Christmas Tree!

2011-11-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

Well, I guess the Christmas Season is officially here! Were any of you camping out last night to do your Black Friday shopping? Not me! To help promote the Christmas Spirit, I have a card to share with you today. I stamped/embossed a Kanban Crafts tree from Vintage Christmas onto their Mirror Reflective Gold paper. I added green over the gold with Copic markers, and then used my colored Sakura Crystal Lacquer to add my trimmings. The lacquer looks great over metallic papers - almost the effect of a foil-backed rhinestone. I hope you will try this technique!

Black Friday Starts Today at CottageCutz

2011-11-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

If you love CottageCutz like I do, then you are going to want to head over to the blog and check out the Black Friday specials and a special release! I am sharing with you one of the new dies, the Ginger Girl Chef. Isn't she adorable?!! When I saw her, I knew I had to make a Christmas Recipe Box. Does your family have traditional recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation? This would make a fantastic little gift to keep those recipes handy.

Have I peeked your interest? Then head over to the Scrapping Cottage and see the rest of the release, as well as the great samples the DT has come up with!

Goodbye Beary Scrap

2011-11-22T00:01:00.001-05:00

You may have already seen the news, but if not, than I am sorry to say that this is the last week for the Beary Scrap Challenge and Design Team. I've been lucky enough to design for the Beary Scrap for almost 2 years, and it's been so fun. The team has been like a family (well actually our only new member, Lori - is family - LOL). Big thanks to Kimm for her generosity throughout my terms. I wish you nothing but the best for the future! Susan, thank you for your hard work as the Design Team leader. Your gorgeous projects have always inspired me - and your love for vintage has always thrilled me. Patricia, you are the girl that knows how to rock the tear critters. I have enjoyed watching your style develop into one that is truly your own, and have enjoyed your sweet personality. Jamie, you are always such an upbeat and positive person. I always look forward to seeing your projects, because even after two years, I'm surprised at some of the amazingly creative ideas you come up with! Lori, I'm so glad we got to work on this team together, even if it was for a short period. You know those Williams Sisters can get into all kinds of crafty trouble together! I've loved watching you evolve as an artist - and I think you are uber talented! Thanks to all of the fans of the Beary Scrap for all of our challenges that you entered, the sweet comments that you made, and the purchases bought from the Beary Scrap. We will miss you!

Paper: Authentique - Uncommon
Seam Binding
Chipboard: Dusty Attic
Paints: Creative Inspirations ( Antique Silver,Rose Quartz, Silver Frost, Coal)

Challenges:
Viva La Verve: Sketch Week 3

Sneak Peak at the New Crafty Secrets CD

2011-11-20T19:35:00.000-05:00

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Crafty Secrets will soon be releasing their second CD full of Vintage Patterns. Over the next few days, I'll be sharing a couple of projects that I've made using it. I absolutely love it, and I hope you will too!

Less than a Week!

2011-11-18T13:53:00.007-05:00

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This is the last weekend before Thanksgiving, and yes...I should be working on getting ready for the big day, but instead, I decided to play along with the Unity Friends With Flair hop. Seriously, who needs to clean house?!!

I have to tell you that the Samantha Walker Designs for Unity Stamps are my very favorites! I have almost all of them. And the Spellbinders that she designed...be still my heart! For today's card, I used Fall Splendor. This stamp set is so pretty, it makes me drool! I also used her Twisted Metal Tags and Accents Die to highlight my stamped embellishment. I punched the tiny scallops using my most used punch from EK Success.

I hope you will have time to hop along today, and see some of the wonderful inspiration!

Challenges:
Basic Grey: Use a Punch
Simon Says: Thanksgiving
Stampin Sisters In Christ - Thankful

CottageCutz and My Little Shoebox!

2011-11-18T11:00:00.002-05:00

Did you know that CottageCutz has a wonderful line of dies that coordinate with some of My Little Shoebox's wonderful collections?!!! These are some truly versatile dies, that you will use over and over again.

Products Used:
Pink Peony Die - Cottage Cutz
Enchanted Garden Collection - My Little Shoebox
Glitter Alphabet Stickers - My Little Shoebox

Challenges:
Card Patterns: sketch

The Winter Blues with Flower Soft

2011-11-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

There is a new challenge at Flower Soft - The Winter Blues. It's a color challenge, but combined with the theme of winter. I die cut my snowflake using the Spellbinders Ironwork Motifs. I sprinkled this with some of the new Ultrafine Polar White Flower Soft. It added so much texture!
Papers:
The Robin's Nest - Pink Coral, Winter Snowflake, White Snowflake
Dew Drops - Ace of Diamonds, Primary

Challenges:CPS: sketch

Our Beary Best - Week 3

2011-11-15T00:01:00.000-05:00

It's time for another installment of the Beary's Scraps' Beary Best! I really enjoy making all kinds of cards - some the focus is coloring, others it may be all about the die-cuts - but for this one it's all about collage. This is a petite card - just barely over 4 inches, but it packs a powerful impact.

My papers are from Authentique's Splendid collection. It's really a fun and eclectic mix of patterns. After layering my papers, I added a Vintage Setting from Epiphany Crafts - with my custom epoxy. And I added a little touch of Twinery Baker's Twine.

I think this turned out really fun!

Challenges:
Authentique: sketch

In the Limelight with Flourishes

2011-11-13T09:30:00.001-05:00

I have been a huge fan of Flourishes stamps for a long time! So when I was asked to share a project that combined gorgeous Flourishes stamps and my Scor-Pal, I jumped at the chance.

I love making fancy fold cards, but today came back to my all-time favorite fold, an easel card. I wanted to use the Birthday Pennan ts stamp set, and thought that the easel card was a great choice. This set is so cool, because it coordinates with the Spellbinder's Nested Pennants and the Nested Lacey Pennants.

Another technique that I love to use with my Scor-pal is making a pleated embellishment. For this card, I cut a strip of paper an inch wide, and scored it every half an inch. I put Scor-tape down and used it to attach it to the card. This is a great way to add dimension to your projects.

Thanks for letting me share some Flourishes love with you today!

Inspired by Stamping

2011-11-12T23:10:00.005-05:00

Do you ever see a stamp set that just makes your heart skip a beat, because it's so beautiful? That's how I felt when I saw Inspired By Stamping's Delicate Doilies. I was immediately in love! And I also used a couple of stamps from the French Boutique set - they look so wonderful together! I stamped my main medallion and the arch on vellum and embossed them with dark brown powder. I was really pleased with the effect I achieved with this technique. Inspired by Stamping had a new release this past week - and I promise you, there are more gorgeous stamps waiting to be discovered. So head over and check it out. In December, the Design Team will start previewing new sets, so be sure to keep stopping by!

Challenges:
Mojo Monday: sketch
Mark's Finest Papers: Your Favorite Technique
Simon Says Stamp and Show: Recycle (a very old button from my button box)

Birthday Tag

2011-11-12T00:00:00.006-05:00

Tags are so fun to make! And tonight, I wanted to share one with you that I made to go on a birthday present.

My papers are all from Kanban Crafts. They are so luxurious and fun to work with. I love the way the glittered transparency looked after I die-cut it.

Thank you for looking!

Challenges:
Cheery Lynn: tag
Party Time Tuesdays: Bling it On

BEADZ

Good Times with Epiphany Crafts

God is Our Refuge

Kind of CAS

CottageCutz Treat Bag

Mixing Creativity with Crystal Lacquer Blog Hop

Friends With Flair Friday Hop

May I Have This Dance?

Seahorse Bay

Love Bandit

Home Is Where the Heart Is

Prickley Pear Blog Hop

Inspired By Stamping - February Release is Here!

Cut. Fold. Tuck.

Friends With Flair Friday Hop

Inspired By Stamping - February Release Day Two Preview

Inspired By Stamping - February Release Day One Preview

From Paris With Love

Hoot Loves You?

Ready, Set, Spring

Friends With Flair Friday Hop

Love Cast in Clay Blog Hop with Creative Paperclay and Amazing Mold Putty

Paris in the Springtime

It's CHA Time

Love Shack

Friends With Flair Friday Hop

Golden Cameo

With Love

Best Buds!

MFT and Scor-Pal Hop

Just Another Brick In The Wall

Peacock Proud

Splish Splash with WorldWin Papers Kraft paper!

Butterfly Blue Thank You

Birdcage Card

A Walk In the Park

Inspired By Stamping - January Release is Here!

Card Storage Tutorial with Epiphany Crafts

Prickley Pear Blog Hop

My Wow Team Day!

Inspired By Stamping - January Release Day Two Preview

Inspired By Stamping - January Release Day One Preview

Love You to the Moon and Back

Feb. 14 Card

Kanban Crafts Card

Kanban Products

Moulin Divas- Black PCT9878Black Damask-Red CRD1353A4MRS/GO

WOW! Gratitude Card

Start Going Through Your Jewelry Drawers!

You Are So Beautiful

Happy New Year!

Penny Black/ Flower Soft Blog Hop

WOW!

Time to Relax

Creative Paperclay and Viva Las Vegastamps!

Thank You Gnome

Crafty Secrets Home Decor

Scor-Pal and Authentique Paper Hop

Window Shopping Tag

Creative Inspirations Holiday Hop

Flying By To Say Hi

Frosty Tag

So Sweet with Crate and Epiphany Crafts

Inspired By Stamping - December Release is Here!

Epiphany Crafts and Crate Paper

Inspired By Stamping - December Release Day Two Preview

Friends With Flair Friday Hop

Inspired By Stamping - December Release Day One Preview

Scor-Pal and Jillibean Soup - Yum Yum

Flower Soft Challenge- Think Snow

Scrap-Mart Holiday Blog Hop

More Christmas Cheer!

Making Your Own Acyrlic Lace Embellishments with Amazing Mold Putty

PSA Essentials & CottageCutz Holiday Card Blog Hop

Robin's Nest Wreath

Creative Paperclay Verdi Angel Ornament

Friends With Flair Friday Hop

Mark Your Calendars

The Christmas Season is Officially Here!

News from Crafty Secrets and New Samples

Moulin Divas- Black PCT9878
Black Damask-Red CRD1353
A4MRS/GO