Friday, September 30, 2011

My CPC Project and Blog Candy!!

Hi there! Happy Friday to you! 
Well, I'm pretty excited because my project for September has been featured over at 
Craft Project Central today! Hooray! 

Here it is:
-Spice Cake Card Sampler with Gift Box-
Here is a great set of all-occasion cards featuring the Spice Cake Designer Series Paper (DSP) and the Oval All stamp set. There are four cards in this set, including a Thank You card, a Best Wishes card, a Just for You card and a Fabulous Friend card. The project also features instructions for a fun gift box to package the set in. This project makes a great gift and is also perfect for clubs and classes.

There are 10 awesome projects included in this month's subscription at Craft Project Central. It's a great deal, too! Please stop by and check it out! 

**Blog Candy Alert**
Want to win this month's Craft Project Central subscription for FREE? 

Well, I am offering up a September subscription to one lucky reader...completely free of charge. What do you have to do to get entered to win? Simply leave me a happy comment. Pretty simple, huh? I will randomly select a winner on Sunday 10/2 at 9pm (CST) so be sure to check back to see if YOU have won.

PS: If you don't have your email address set up in your Blogger profile, please leave it in your comment. If I can't contact you...I can't get your prize to you if you are the winner! 

Have a great day today! :) 

Thursday, September 29, 2011

New at Craft Project Central

Hi there! I wanted to share with you the latest projects featured for the September subscription at Craft Project Central. My project will be featured tomorrow and I'm super-excited about it! Eeek! This month is full of crafty "awesomeness",  I tell ya. 


Check out the latest additions to the CPC line-up this month, starting with this spooky-cute Halloween set, designed by Heidi
-Witch Hat Treat Box & Card-
This witch hat is a great little treat box for any Halloween lover!  Perfect for your kid’s teacher, a co-worker or neighbor.  This gift set includes a three dimensional witch hat treat box, a candy stick, and spooky card. This is the September Bonus roject. Click HERE for more info on how to get this one. 


Next up, there is frightfully fun project, designed by Heidi!: 
(I just love this paper!) 
-Frightful Sight Halloween Trio-
The candy pouch makes a quick gift to give to someone to say, hope your Halloween is sweet! The mini scallop square box opens up to reveal a little surprise that pops out. Finish off with this fun and playful spider card with a greeting inside that says Happy Halloween. These make great little gifts for a Halloween treat, but they would also be fun for other holidays and events with just a change of some paper and images.

To get the instructions for BOTH Heidi and Heidi's fabulous projects, just subscribe to September at Craft Project Central!

Hope today was HAPPY for you! :) 
Hugs, 

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Hand Stamped Sentiments #86 - Halloween

Hello there and Happy Tuesday to you! this week at Hand Stamped Sentiments we have a "spook-tackular" challenge! It's ALL about Halloween, so get your BOO on and play along! :) 
I created my card with two different stamp sets. First, the (embossed) definition stamp is from a retired set called Eat, Drink and Be Scary. I thought the definition worked so well with those little "mustached" pumpkins from the Out on a Limb set. How cute is it that these jack o' lantern's have their own little costume for Halloween? I know some people don't realy like the mustache-"thing", but I think it is stinkin' CUTE! :) 

The Frightful Sight DSP has become very popular for me recently, as I have been making quite a few Halloween cards. I also added the Spiderweb Embossing folder with some sponged ink and some Crystal Effects to the pumpkins for added shine. All of the supplies used are listed below. 
Sure hope you will stop by and visit Hand Stamped Sentiments this week to see what the rest of the Design Team has created AND to join in the fun. Thanks for stopping by today! 


Stampin' Up! Supply List: 
Stamps: Out on a Limb (Hioliday Mini) and Eat, Drink and Be Scary (ret.) 
Paper:  Frightful Sight DSP, Cajun Craze, Old Olive, Basic Black, Basic Gray and Whisper White card stock
Ink: Versa-Mark, Cajun Craze (for coloring the pumpkiins), Basic Black and basic Gray Classic ink
Accessories: 1- 1/4" Circle punch, 1-3/8" Circle punch, Scallop Circle punch, Spiderweb Embossing folder, White Embossing powder,  Crystal Effects, Basic Black Stampin' Write Journaling pen, Neutrals Glimmer Brads, Old Olive 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon, Silver Elastic cord (ret.), Stampin' Dimensionals and Clips Assortment

Sunday, September 25, 2011

A Sketch for The Paper Players

Hi-ya stamping friends! It's Sunday and you know what that means...yup, it's Paper Players time!! Woot woot! This week, I am your challenge hostess. Eeeek!!! I sure hope you like my sketch and have a chance to join in the fun by playing along. Pretty please!! :)
For this one, I started out with something completely different, in mind. Then, I was inspired by a color combo I saw on Pintrest, my latest creative obsession. Love that site!! 
I paired up bits from three stamp sets for this little guy and even did a little "fussy cutting" which is something I generally hide from. Lol! The witch hat from the Wicked Cool stamp set fits perfectly on the punched owl. I'm sure I'm not the first to try this out, but I was pretty excited when I discovered it. 


Although I didn't actually USE the trick-or-treating owl from the Warmest of Wishes (hostess) set, I used his "goodie bag" for my inspiration. I simply used a marker to ink up the jack-o'- lantern face on the stamp and hand-cut a little treat bag. I added a piece of silver elastic cord for the handle. Although, as I type this, I kind of wonder how this hooter is going to haul his "loot" as he doesn't have hands or wings...hmmmm...maybe he will carry it in his beak? GAH...Why am I even thinking about that? Haha! 
I sponged around the image, the owl and the sentiment with some Basic Black Classic ink for an eerie-vibe. Every layer is popped up, too. It's hard to see in photos but it is actually a fairly bulky card. 
Finally, here is the inside of the card, using the (ret.) Trick or Treat set...I couldn't think of a better sentiment to use with this little dude
Thanks for stopping by today and please pay a visit to the rest of the lovely ladies on the Design Team to see what they have done with the sketch. Please, PLEASE play along with the Paper Players if you get the chance this week, too! *grin* 

The Paper Players Design Team
Tara Bilbao
Sandra Conner (September GD)
Rita Wright (Sassy Substitute Stamper) 

Enjoy your day today! :) If I haven't stopped by to visit you recently, please know that I'm trying. The past few weeks have been absolutely crazy for me. I'm struggling to keep up and adjust to a new schedule. 
Hugs, 


Stampin' Up! Supply List: 
Stamps: Wicked Cool, Out on a Limb, Warmest of Wishes (hostess) and Trick or Treat (retired, inside sentiment) 
Paper: Frightful Sight DSP, Old Olive, Whisper White and Cajun Craze card stock
Ink: Basic Black Classic ink
Accessories: Basic Black, Old Olive and Cajun Craze Stampin' Write Markers, 1- 1/4" Circle punch, 1- 3/8" Circle punch, Owl Builder punch, Silver Elastic Cord (ret.), Stampin' Sponges and Stampin' Dimensionals
Non SU! Accessories: silver pearls, bat brad, circle and scallop circle die cut

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Numbers for Our Creative Corner

Hi there! It's Saturday and that means it is time for another fun challenge at Our Creative Corner! This week Sharon is our hostess and it's all about 'Numbers':  
"Everyone has a favorite number, or a number they will always remember.  So, for this challenge, include a number on your paper craft item.   Your paper craft item can be a card, tag, 3-D item, or scrapbook page.  Be creative on how you incorporate your 'number'.  This challenge is pretty straight forward, without a lot of specific guidelines or requirements.  And don't forget to have FUN!
I dug into some new stamping supplies once again and focused my project around the number of a pretty special holiday in December. :)  All of the supplies used are listed at the end of the post, if you are interested...including the new super-adorable Mini Jingle Bells from the Holiday Mini Catalog!! I also Sponged Early Espresso ink around all of the DSP edges along with the Silver Glimmer Paper accents. 
I received quite a few emails from my last card where I mentioned that you could color the new Silver Glimmer Paper using Classic Ink and a sponge. I wanted to post a side-by-side photo to show what that looks like. The circle on the left is the original Silver Glimmer Paper. The circle on the right is sponged with Early Espresso Classic Ink. The only tip I have is to make sure the ink dries completely (or give it a blast with the Heat Tool) so that you don't smudge the ink on your project...like I did the first time I tried it. Oops! 
 Finally, here is the inside of the card, using up some scraps from the front: 
Thanks for visiting today! I sure hope you will join us this week at Our Creative Corner. Please stop by the site to see what the rest of the gals on the Design Team created using the numbers-theme. 


Have a HAPPY day! :) 


Stampin' Up! Supply List: 
Stamps: Tags 'til Christmas and Contempo Christmas (inside sentiment)
Paper: Letters to Santa DSP, Silver Glimmer Paper, Riding Hood Red, Early Espresso, Marina Mist and Whisper White card stock
Ink: Early Espresso and Marina Mist Classic Ink
Accessories: Stocking Builder punch, Small Oval punch (ret.), Large Oval punch, Decorative Label punch, Early Espresso/White Baker's Twine, Stamping Sponges and Stampin' dimensionals

Friday, September 23, 2011

This Week at Craft Project Central

Hi there! I have had a ridiculously BUSY week and am spending some time tonight playing catch-up. I wanted to share the latest projects included with the September subscription at Craft Project Central. There are some gorgeous ideas this month so make sure you check it out. :) 
First up, here is a pretty project, designed by Monika

Pin Cushion and Card Gift Set
No sewing machine needed!  Make this sweet pin cushion out of a recycled can!  Complete this set with a matching greeting card to make the perfect present for any crafting or sewing friend!  Leave the pin cushion loose on the top of the can to use for buttons or additional pin storage!

Next, it's time to scare up some fun, with this "spooktackular" project by Kris:
Pick Your Poison Halloween Ensemble
These Halloween projects make cute gifts for your best friend, a special teacher, or anyone that loves Halloween!  Fill the haunted house treat box with goodies and pair it with this sinister charm bracelet.  The silver spider web luminary doubles as a Fancy Favor container.  Embellish it with a festive gift tag!

Finally, here is a fabulously festive box of cards, designed by Kris:
Beautiful Season Card and Tag Box Set
This cards and tags box set is designed around the Beautiful Season stamp set, which has a gorgeous vintage look and feel.  the box holds four cards, four envelopes, four "Top Note" tags and four 2" folded tags, and four "Curly Label" tags.  This set makes a great gift, craft fair item and is a fun class project!

To get the instructions for these fun projects, just subscribe to September over at Craft Project Central!  And please leave Monika, Kris and Kris some comments and let them know how much you like their projects!

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great day! :) 

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Hand Stamped Sentiments #85- Impress Us

Hi there! Happy Terrific Tuesday to you! This week at Hand Stamped Sentiments we are asking you to IMPRESS us...using an embossing folder, embossing powder, or a letterpress plate, create any card or 3D project. 
For my card, I looked to a big ol' box of NEW stamping goodies that just arrived at my doorstep! Hooray for the Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog...FINALLY! I used the  Comfort & Joy stamp set, the Snow Burst embossing folder, Pewter Embossing Powder, Early Espresso 3/8" Quilted Satin ribbon, Silver Glimmer Paper and the Letters to Santa DSP. Good Grief, I got crazy with "Holiday Mini-Madness" on this one! Haha! That's what happens when you get new stampin' treats, I guess! :) 


Seriously...the Glimmer Paper is NOT done any justice in these photos. It is FABULOUS and guess what? You can change it up to ANY color with a simple Sponge Dauber and some Classic ink OR a Classic Re-inker and an Aqua Painter. VERY versatile... I already know I will be buying a lot of this paper. 
Finally, here is the finished inside of the card. I just love this stamp set! Simply pretty and so perfect for the holidays! 
Thanks for popping by! Please check out what the rest of the Hand Stamped Sentiments Design Team has created this week and please play along with your impressed and embossed creations. Enjoy the day today! :) 

**Click HERE to buy Stampin' Up! products 24/7**


Stampin' Up! Supply List: 
Stamps: Comfort & Joy
Paper: Letters to Santa DSP, Silver Glimmer  Paper, Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso and Shimmer White card stock
Ink: Versa-ark and Cherry Cobbler Classic ink
Accessories: Ticket Corner punch, Scallop Edge Border punch, Pewter Embossing Powder, Early espresso 3/8" Quilted /satin Ribbon, Snow Burst Embossing Folder, Stampin' Dimensionals and Basic Pearls

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Paper Players 64- Plant or Animal CAS

Hi there and Happy Paper Players Sunday to you! This week, the lovely and talented Ann Schach is our  hostess and she has challenged us to create a Clean and Simple card using an animal OR a plant as your  main image. 
For my design, I used the fantastic sketch over at Cardabilities this week. I just discovered this site and there is some awesome creative inspiration there! :) 
I ended up creating TWO cards for the challenge. I started out with a baby card in mind, as I am needing one for a dear friend. Then, after whipping up a 'boy" card...I just decided to make another card for a "little lady", too. You can never have too many baby cards on hand...I actually have a swap coming up later this month that is "baby-related"...hmmmm! As the theme of this challenge was CAS (clean and simple), I tried to keep my layers to a minimum (for the first time EVER) and wanted to showcase the new Nursery Nest DSP I recently purchased. I paired the paper with the Fox & Friends stamp set. 


Here is a close-up of the "boy" card: 
 Here is the close-up of the "girl" card: 
Same elements...different colors...and there you have it: simple cards for a baby boy AND a baby girl! All of the supplies used are listed below but if you have any questions, please shoot me an email.  We sure hope you will join us this week at the Paper Players. Be sure to visit the rest of the gals on the Design Team to check out their lovely creations

The Paper Players Design Team
Tara Bilbao
Sandra Conner (September GD)



Before I go, I wanted to share a photo. This is EPIC because since we have had these two crazy cats under one roof...this is THE closest they have EVER been to each other. I think the look on Benjamin 's face completely expresses the utter "joy" he is feeling for this moment, as well: 
Thanks for stopping by today! Hope your day is HAPPY and fun!!! :) 


Stampin' Up! Supply List: 
Stamps: Fox & Friends and Short & Sweet
Paper: Nursery Nest DSP, Marina Mist, Pear Pizzazz, Blushing Bride and Whisper White card stock
Ink: Pear Pizzazz, Blushing Bride and Marina Mist Classic ink
Accessories: Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder, Corner Rounder punch, Scallop Edge Border punch, Word Window punch,  Pear pizzazz 1/2" Stitched-Poly ribbon, Blushing Bride 1/2" Stitched-Poly ribbon, Basic Rhinestones and Stampin' Dimensionals
Non SU! Accessories: silver pearls, circle and scallop circle die cut

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Our Creative Corner- Not BIG on Pink

Hi-ya friends and Happy Saturday to you! This week at Our Creative Corner, the lovely Sharon is our hostess and boy, does she have a fun challenge. The theme is "Not Big On Pink" and here are the details to play along with us: 
  • Use any shade of blue, and just a touch of pink.  (if you need a number, think 1/5 or less in pink)  
  • You must also incorporate some texture, (ie: fabric, ribbon, floss, etc) and a metal piece (ie: brad, push pin, charm, etc.).  
  • Make something pretty without going over the top in pinks!  Heather Hilliard of House Beautiful circa Oct 2011, said that, 'A bright, happy blue becomes very sophisticated when paired with a neutral'.   So, if you find you're having a bit of a struggle, let Heather's words help guide you.  
  • Most of all, have FUN!
Sooo, I have to say that NOT using pink was a major challenge indeed, for THIS girl! If you have stopped by in the past, you may have noticed how much I like...LOVE that color. As I got to thinking about my creation this week...and that itty-bitty bit of pink I could use...I went with this fun dress form image.  Now, it's NOT a SU! image (the sentiment is though), but you know what? That is ok. My craft room contains a few other treasures that occasionally like some attention, too. :) 
I paper pieced that sweet little dress and then accessorized the outfit with the pops of pink...and glitter glue...there was no requirement of glitter but this card was screaming for it. Seriously, what gal wouldn't like sparkly pink shoes?? GAH!! My metal accents were sort of sneaky (hope it's ok, Sharon) by using the silver jeweled brad and some silver metallic pearls. Metallic, but in a really "girly" way. 

Lastly, a shot of the inside of the card. I left it blank for now. It could easily be used for a thank you, a birthday or a "just because you are fantastic" card...because those are the best cards to send and receive!
I sure hope you will play along with us this week at Our Creative Corner! Please stop by the site and see what the rest of the fabulous gals on the Design Team have whipped up, too. You will NOT be disappointed! 


Thanks for visiting! Have a very HAPPY day! :) 


Supplies: 
Stamps: Perfect Words (sentiment, hostess) and non-SU, stinkin' cute, dress form image
Paper: Subtles Collection Patterns Paper Stacks (in Bashful Blue), Very Vanilla, Basic Gray and Bashful Blue card stock
Ink: Basic Black Classic ink
Accessories: Dotted Scallop Ribbon punch, Pretty in Pink 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon, silver pearls, Basic Pearls, Dazzling Details Glitter Glue (Holiday Mini) and alcohol-based markers

Friday, September 16, 2011

New Projects at Craft Project Central

Hi there! I just wanted to share the latest projects that have been posted over at Craft Project Central this week. The September subscription is full of fabulous projects, so if you haven't signed up yet, be sure to check it out. It's an awesome deal! :) 


First up, here is a gorgeous project created by Deanna
-Friends Gift Box & Card-
Here’s a pretty little gift box and matching note card that you can make, fill with something special and give to that special friend!  Change up the theme and make the gift box for any special occasion from birthdays, holidays, showers, and more!

Next, here is a spooktacular Halloween project created by Laurie: 
-Halloween Luminaria & Candy Containers-
Here are some exciting projects to make your Halloween even more fun!  Great ideas for candy containers to give to the kids’ classmates, as well as a Luminaria to decorate your home!

To get the instructions for these projects, just subscribe to September at Craft Project Central.  And please leave Deanna and Laurie a comment and let them know how much you like their projects!

Have a HAPPY day today!! :) 

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Hand Stamped Sentiments #84- Fall Theme

Hello and Happy Tuesday to you! It's time for another fun challenge over at Hand Stamped Sentiments! This week we have a theme-challenge for you. It's all about FALL! Even though the weather is back in the 100's here in South Texas...a gal can pretend there are cooler temps on the horizon...right? *fingers crossed* 
I also incorporated the design from the Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge
So, in making this card, I realized something. I am definitely NOT a "collage-stamper".This one was really tough for me. After owning the French Foliage set for over  year, I finally decided to bestow some ink upon it, for this card. I have seen so many stampers create such gorgeous collage-style layouts with this set and I tried my best to emulate them. I even added some gold embossing and the Color Spritzer Tool to add some texture and dimension. I also sponged some ink on the edges. I'm not so sure how it came out....
Here is the simple inside, ready for a personalized note. Don't you LOVE that Confetti White card stock? I really like the flecks of soft color embedded in the paper. I need to remember to use it more often! 
Thanks for visiting! Please check out the lovely ladies on the Hand Stamped Sentiments Design Team to see what they have created! We hope you will join us in the Fall FUN, this week, too. The challenge is open until Monday September 19th at Noon (CST)


Have a HAPPY day! :) 

Stampin' Up! Supply List: 
Stamps: French Foliage and Teeny Tiny Wishes
Ink: Versa-Mark, Soft Suese, Early Espresso, Not Quite Navy So Saffron and Cajun Craze Classic ink
Paper: Well Worn DSP, Soft Suede, Early Espresso, Cajun Craze, Night of Navy and Confetti White card stock
Accessories: Hemp Twine, 3/4" Circle punch, Word Window punch, Modern Label punch, Gold Embossing Powder, Square Lattice Embossing folder, Scallop Trim Border punch, Chantilly 1/2" Lace trim, Paper Crimper, Color Spritzer Tool, Soft Suede Strampin' Write Marker, Sponges, Stampion Dimensionals and Antique Brads.