wish you were here...

Online Directory Giveaway!!!

2012-01-07T17:50:00.000-08:00

Hello! I purchased a laminating machine, woohoo! I love making these online directories. They are beautiful and practical all at the same time. Passwords and Usernames are kept in one fabulous place!

So I went a little crazy cutting paper and laminating the other day and have lots in stock. Would you like to have your very own setz? I am giving a couple away and all I am asking is for your to jump over to my Etsy shop and click the Facebook button at the top right of the page just under the header. You can also like my Facebook page directly.

Not on Facebook? Then just go ahead and leave me a little love here in the form of a comment.

I will be doing a random number drawing on January 16 and will let the winners know via email.

If you love the idea and want to make your own I can send you a file that has the blank pages that I created for the inside. Just print on both sides cut right down the middle and bind it using your favorite method. I use a bind-it-all machine;) Email me at tlckc1@msn.com to get the file for the inside pages.

Hope you are having a most amazing weekend!

Laura~

Happy New Year!

2011-12-29T12:15:00.000-08:00

Hello! I know once again I have been MIA, I started my training to be a Life Coach and I have just been having a blast! I would love it if you stopped by my new site that I use for coaching and let me know what you think. My Life Coaching business is called Soul Ablaze. Thanks!

I am desperate to use up some of my stash of paper. I know this is not a new idea but these are so fun to make I couldn't resist sharing with you.

For the cover just cut 2 1/8 x 5 1/4" strips. Score at 1/2" and 2 3/16". For the inside cut copy paper or whatever you have laying around to 2 x 2 3/8". Fold on score lines insert paper and staple into place. TaDah!

I thought I would get a jump on Valentines Day. I know don't judge, I really do have a life:)

Hope your New Year is filled with blessings and all things wonderful!

Laura~

Swell News

2011-09-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

Hello! This is for My Favorite Things Wednesday Sketch Challenge. I used the set She's Having a Baby. While I was going through my piles of stuff over the weekend I found this little stash from Making Memories Chloe's Closet...so sweet. The dress is paper pieced from a little piece of Basic Grey paper I had. I wonder how long it would take me to use up all the little pieces of paper I have?
Last year, I designed this notebook because I was using an old regular address book to keep track of online passwords and websites. Surely I could make something better than this, I thought. I used a Print Shop program to make the inside pages.

The outside pages (5 1/2 x 8 1/2) are made from 12 x 12 sheets of whatever scrapbook paper I have laying around. I have the outside pages laminated for durability and then use a Bind it All to hold it all together.

The sticky note holder is made from left over paper and cut to 3 1/2 x 3 1/4 in. and then also laminated. I have given so many of these as gifts... really fun.

If you are absolutely head over heals excited to try one of these, I can send you the file for the inside pages. They just won't have the alphabet index on top. I'm not sure if you could add that to the pdf that I am sharing, but you could certainly hand write it or stamp it! Just send an email and I will get the file sent right off! (tlckc1@msn.com)

If you don't want to bother to make one, you can always take a look at the collection I have on Etsy :)

Thanks so much for stamping by today!

Laura~

Trick or Treat

2011-08-29T09:30:00.001-07:00

Today my kids went back to school. My boy, Chris, started his sophomore year and my daughter, Katelyn, is now in 7th grade. Whew! Back to school for me is the official start of fall. Over the weekend I did a clean sweep (have you seen that show?) in my studio. I still have a few things to put away, but I'll take a picture when it's done:) FYI, if anyone is interested I have listed an almost brand new Spellbinder Die Cutting Machine in my Etsy shop for just $15 plus $10 shipping :)
I put all my Halloween stuff together and was really anxious to play with it. I used the new sketch from Mojo Monday. This stamp image is from American Art Stamps. I colored the adorable witch with watercolor pencils and a blender pen.

Thanks so much for stamping by today!

Laura~

Celebrate the Journey

2011-08-25T09:34:00.001-07:00

It's all about My Favorite Things today! From the first moment I saw this image 3 years ago, I was enchanted. This is for the MFT Wednesday Sketch Challenge. I used the set Goin' Places and got to play with my new retro flower die-cut. I love the dimension is adds to the card.

I also am playing the Way to Use It Challenge on SCS. Recycling is the challenge today. I pulled out the stack of chipboard that I save to use for the tab, also a die-cut from My Favorite Things.

Everthing was colored with Copic Markers. I think that is about it today. I am off to meet a new friend for lunch! Have a wonderful day!

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

We Grow Great by Dreams

2011-08-24T08:36:00.001-07:00

Hello! This is for the SCS Sketch Challenge today. The stamps are SU! Dreams du Jour and the paper is from K&Co. the ancestry.com stack. I stamped the image 2 times so that I could cut an extra flower for dimension.

The vellum die cut is from My Favorite Things and the hardware is SU! hodgepodge.
Thanks so much for stamping by today!
Laura~

E=mc2

2011-08-23T09:05:00.000-07:00

Hello! I usually don't play color challenges. They are the most difficult for me to pull off. But the Color Challenge at SCS was to use red, blue and yellow with the dessert being back to school theme. Well, you know I had to play. It was the perfect opportunity to play with the library cards I created a few weeks ago.

The stamps are SU! It's Academic. I colored the bus with Copic Markers.

The digital download for this file (includes cards and directions for making the pockets) is just $2.50 in my Etsy shop!
Thanks so much for stamping by today!
Laura~

Those who wish to sing...

2011-08-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

When I was a teenager I wanted to sing. I had been in my jr. high choir and had a blast, so I asked to join the the choir at church. One glorious Sunday afternoon, I was literally singing my heart out in front of God and the congregation when I noticed that my microphone wasn't on. Pointing to the offending mic, I mouthed to the choir director, "My mic isn't on." She mouthed back, "I know." That, my friends, was the heartrending end of my singing career.

Years later, while working on scrapbook, I came across this Swedish Proverb, " Those who wish to sing always find a song." I felt a little charge of electricity, an excitement, a knowing. That is exactly right; there is a song for each of us. Just because I wasn't gifted with a beautiful singing voice didn't mean I couldn't be a rock star with my long list of other talents (for those of us who don't know right out of the womb what we want to be/do with this life, I think we get to gather a bag full of skills and other fun things). But which talent to pursue, to cultivate, I am a MOM for goodness sake! I have been saying for years that I really don't know what I want to be when I grow up. I was getting desperate to find MY song.

Several months ago I enrolled to get certified to be a Life Coach. While I have had what is nothing short of a schizophrenic life path so far (cake decorator, frustrated interior decorator, PTA president, all on top of a degree in marketing), I am sure with every fiber of my being that this is absolutely the right path for me, my song.

I believe that we find and are connected with people for specific reasons. I want to share my journey here. If you are reading this, perhaps you are meant to share back. I hope so, it should be nothing short of interesting, that's for sure.

So what do you say, are you ready to join me for some singing lessons? (...and a little paper crafting while we are at it)

This is for the Mojo Monday Sketch. I used some new stamps I got from Stampers Anonymous and a new retro flower die I got from My Favorite Things. The paper is all from my stash.
Thanks so much for stamping by today and taking a minute to read my story!
Laura~

Wish Big Embossed Folder

2011-08-19T09:34:00.001-07:00

Well, I am back at it again with my Tim Holtz stash. Today the SCS challenge was to use an embossing folder as the main element. I also used the SU! set Short & Sweet and some more new stamps from Stampers Anonymous Odds and Ends (for the ticket).
I think this is such a wonderfully masculine card.
Thanks so much for stamping by~
Laura

Get Your Freak On!

2011-08-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

I love this sentiment for Halloween from My Favorite Things Fright Night set. I am playing along with the MFT Sketch Challenge for this card and the SCS challenge to use VersaMark. I used it on the spiderweb and spider to emboss it with clear embossing powder. I don't have black ep so I stamped the image first with VersaMark and then stamped it with Memento Tuxedo Black. Don't do it the other way around or you will mess up your VersaMark pad. I colored the witch with Copic markers.
I have had this stamp from The Cat's Pajamas for yeeaarrrs, I am embarrassed to say. Anyway, I was just aching to use it so here you go.

I used Crystal Effects on the floaty to give it some dimension. This card makes me smile and want to go hang out at the pool with a cocktail. Anyone want to join me :)

Have an amazing day. Thanks for stamping by.

Laura

Love Potion #9

2011-08-17T08:59:00.000-07:00

I got new stamps in the mail yesterday so I refrained from using the Tim Holtz stuff I still have out on my desk :) This is for the SCS sketch challenge346 . The stamps are from Artistic Outpost. I love the vintage Halloween look. The papers are all from my stash that I am slowly going through. I embossed the Love Potion and the Witch's Potion labels for a little dimension and pretty heavily distressed the rest. I stamped the bottle onto cream cs and colored it with Copic markers.

Thanks so much for stamping by today!

Laura

And the winner is...

2011-08-16T07:48:00.000-07:00

Everyone!!! That's right everyone who commented on this post will get the downloads for my library cards and pockets, whoohoo! I will email those who have links or just email me and I will send them to you.
Now for Mojo Monday...I think I might need an intervention. I had all my Tim Holtz stuff out from my last 2 projects and really wanted to use them again. Honestly, if I keep this up just send some help.

I used Gadget Gears Die-cut, Texture Fades embossing folders, and the Visual Artistry stamps from Stampers Anonymous. For the cool distressed look on the embossed layer, I inked the backside of the folder with Tim Holtz Distress Ink Brushed Corduroy and then ran it through the cuttlebug. I think this is such a great guy card.

Thanks so much for stamping by today!

Laura

enjoy the journey

2011-08-15T08:31:00.000-07:00

WOW! I had such a great time making this telescoping card for the SCS TLC Challenge today.
On Saturday I got the gear die cut and the Texture Fades embossing folders from the Tim Holtz collection, aren't they fabulous? I love the steampunk feel of this card. The stamps are also from Tim Holtz called Visual Artistry. The Be Brave sentiment and the top die cut under the tag is from MFT Own Your Story set.

I haven't ever done a telescoping card before, but I don't think this will be my last.

You still have until tonight to leave a comment to win a digital download for templates to make library cards and pockets, see this post.

I am off to take my DD for some school supplies. Hope you have a beautiful day!

Laura

THANK YOU!!!

2011-08-14T10:27:00.000-07:00

Now I remember why I love the stamping and crafting community so much and how much I missed it. You guys are the best, I have heard from so many who are sending well wishes and welcome backs. Thank you, it means so much to me.
Well, the story for today is this. I really liked playing with the It's Academic set from SU! I also had a PILE of scraps that I was trying to decide what to do with. I ran across some mini envelopes and thought, hmmm. I could make little notecards....that have little envelopes....

Voila! Adorable, easy to make mini notecards. I don't think I even need to spell out what went on here. I did use Tim Holtz walnut stain Distress Ink and the direct to paper method of inking to really distess the cards. Really the bonus is using up all those small scraps of paper. The notecards are 2 1/2 x 3 1/2.

Want your own mini envelopes. Well, lucky for you I have some in my Esty shop.

Thanks so much for stamping by today!

Laura

Back to School...

2011-08-13T10:45:00.001-07:00

I am so excited for school to start again! I love my kids, but I love it when they are doing their thing, kwim? I am playing with my library card templates and with stamps from SU! that rarely see the light of day :)
I printed the set of cards, stamped the images, and did a little coloring with my copic markers. Easy! Now I have notes to leave the kids in their lunch boxes, send a note to the teacher or add to an album.

Want to make your own? Head on over to my Etsy shop and you can print your own or pick this set up! Want to win a download, just leave some love on the previous post by Monday.

Have a fabulous weekend!

Thanks for stamping by,

Laura

Hello?!!!

2011-08-12T09:41:00.000-07:00

Well it has been awhile... do you remember me? It has been nearly 2 1/2 years since my last post. I had some life things to take care of. I am sure that nearly all of you can relate. You know when you just have to take a step back and decide what is truly important and focus on that? That is what I did and I wish I could express how amazing the journey has been.

But enough of that for now, I know you are here to see some paper stuff. So here you are, a journal I have made that goes with the challenge at SCS today, to use a frame.

I started the journal with thick chipboard and used Paper Mod Podge to adhere all the paper to the chipboard and then used it as a protective top coating for the rest of the paper elements. The images are from Stampin Up (I Like Your Style). I have been going through my stash to clear some room and remembered how much I heart this set. By the way if you are interested in some retired SU! sets check out my Etsy shop. I will be adding more sets in the next few weeks so check back often :0

For this library pocket I made my own. I have also added this to my Etsy shop so that you can use it too if you would like. I have a digital version, so you can be using it by this afternoon! The journey sentiment is from the Tim Holtz collection of stamps called Visual Artistry, gorgeous!

I finished the journal by binding it with my Bind-it-All.

To kick off my return to stamping and blogging land I am giving away a free download for the library pockets. Just leave some love (comments) and I will pick a random winner on Monday, August 15!

Thanks so much for stamping by!

Laura

{hi}

2009-03-10T09:57:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post today to show off some of the fabulous new things just in at PaperAddiction.com.This line is from Pink Paislee. For this card I used brads, cardstock stickers, stamps and die-cut paper. I kept this card really simple because I was at a crop over the weekend and didn't have all my supplies at my disposal, but I like the simplicity.

Thanks for stamping by today!

Shabby Angel

2009-02-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

Hi! I used Beate's Weekend Sketch Challenge for this card featuring an Angel from American Art Stamps and the new line of paper from Basic Grey called Porcelain, yummmm.

I stamped the image on white PTI Cardstock and colored it with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. Not much more to tell about this card so I hope you have a wonderful day!

Thanks for stamping by!

Surprise!

2009-02-23T15:32:00.000-08:00

Hi! Back in January I got some fun stamps from Unity to help showcase StoreMoreStamps.com

I really had fun making this acetate card. I stamped the image onto the acetate with brown StazOn and then colored on the reverse side of the acetate with my Copic Markers. If you color over the StazOn with Copics it smudges. I then stamped the image on Basic Grey DP several times and did some paper piecing. The sentiment was stamped with white StazOn with a green Copic on the reverse.

So please let me know what you think, I have been in an absolute stamping funk for so long, I need to get some positive reinforcement:)

Thanks for stamping by!

Luck of the Irish

2009-02-20T10:22:00.000-08:00

Hi! I finally got time to play in a limited supply challenge on SCS. I have been working at my local scrapbook store moving some inventory around, it's been fun, but totally cutting into stamping time:)

I just love this Karen Stopler image from American Art Stamps. I stamped it onto PTI Lemon Tart paper and colored it with Copic markers. My two embellishments are glitter and ribbon. This card would be totally easy to mass produce.

Stop by PaperAddiction.com to check out the Basic Grey lines that came in a few days ago, Marrakech and Porcelain, mmmm!

Thanks for stamping by!

Hi there!

2009-02-11T10:43:00.000-08:00

Did you miss me? I have been in a self imposed exile. I have had some family in town and got a cold on top of that, but I am back and have some fun things to share.

This is for today's sketch challenge on SCS. I am using the brand new line from Imaginisce called Summer Cool, and it is in stock at PaperAddiction.com, woohooo!!! This was a really easy card to put together. I stamped the flower 3 times and colored it with watercolor pencils and a blender pen and then stamped over the top with the SU! sanded background with Brushed Corduroy Distress Ink.

I had an absolute blast at CHA and will post a few pics in the next few days:)

Thanks for stamping by!

Howdy

2009-01-18T19:50:00.000-08:00

I want to send a quick shout out to all the wonderful ladies who were at my card classes this past week...I hope you had as much fun taking the class as I had sharing it with you:)

Here's my card for this week's My Favorite Things Who's That Girl Challenge (MFTWTG18)with the featured set Ride 'em Cowgirl with the additional challenge of using the color combo of Red, White and Blue. I also used the sketch from PaperCraftPlanet (SK011709)I know I kept the white to a minimum, but it is there:) I stamped the image with Rich Cocoa Memento Ink and colored it with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. The back blue panel was ran through my Cuttlebug with a bohoish (Ican't remember the name:( ) folder. The fabulous stitching on the bottom was done with rub-ons that have been in my stash longer than I care to admit, thank you very much.

In anticipation of CHA, the Holy Land for paper crafters, everything at PaperAddiction.com is on sale for AT LEAST 20% off. Hurry for the best selection. Also, keep in mind no orders will be shipped from 1 /23 - 1/29, so if you want your stuff in a relative hurry, order soon:)

Hope you are having a wonderful weekend, thanks for stamping by!

Have a Swashbucklin' Day!

2009-01-14T07:41:00.000-08:00

Hi! Can I just tell you how much fun I had with this card for my GD spot with The Cat's Pajamas!!! The Arrgh! Piratey set caught my fancy from the first time I visited Alma's store. I made the belly band with kraft paper stamped with the scroll image and then trimmed, that was mounted on a strip of paper that wraps around the whole card.
The card is standard A2 size scored at 2 3/4 and 8 1/4. I left the right scroll blank for a message.

For the map I stamped and drew the images I wanted then crumpled it up and added lots of inking and distressing. The little pirate 'Errol' has a silver Stickles added to his sword. I added some bling to the pirate chest also.

Don't forget to check out the sweet deal being offered this month from The Cat's Pajamas; 3 sets of love themed stamps for just $33 (retail $48).

Thanks so much for stamping by today~

Namaste

2009-01-11T15:57:00.001-08:00

Hi! Here's this week's edition of the My Favorite Things Who's That Girl Challenge (MFTWTG17). The featured set this week is Serenity Now and the challenge is to use striped paper. I used a sketch challenge over at PaperCraftPlanet.com (sk011009)

I used some Basic Grey 6x6 Granola paper (we have another order coming in from Basic Grey, but for the moment only have 2 Eva paper pads left in stock) for this card. I used a combination of Copic markers (for the yogini) and a watercolor pencil for the background. Pretty straightforward.

A quick note about PaperAddiction.com. We are letting the stock get pretty low so we have lots of room and dollars to spend when Michelle and I go to CHA in 2 weeks:) If you are going I would love to meet you. If you have any suggestions, let us know about that too.

Thanks for stamping by!

Sprinkle Annette

2009-01-10T16:21:00.001-08:00

Hi! One more card this week as Guest Designer for The Cat's Pajamas. This is Sprinkle Annette.
Isn't it fun to make cards for the season it isn't, it puts you in a different frame of mind:)

For this card, I pulled a page from Michelle's (flaxychick) stamping handbook...stamp on colored/patterned paper. It is such a fun look. I stamped Annette with Black Memento ink and colored her with Copic Markers. I added sand and lots of little embellishments from my stash. The paper is from K&Co. Urban Rhapsody stack.

I have 2 more projects I get to share as Guest Designer but not until next week. Thanks for stamping by!

Sweet

2009-01-09T09:55:00.001-08:00

Hi! This is another card I did for my Guest Designer Gig for The Cat's Pajamas. This set was in the first order I placed with Alma. I really can't bring myself to use any other sentiment with this stamp 'cause that's just what it is. I am going to keep this post short, I have lots to do today. The image was colored with...you guessed it, watercolor pencils and a blender pen. A little machine stitching and some buttons finish off this card. The paper is from K&Co.
Did you see the super fabulous deal Alma is offering in her store right now. You can get 3 of her love themed sets for the unbeatable price of $33. WOW!

Thanks for stamping by today!

Birthday Monsters

2009-01-08T11:22:00.000-08:00

Hi! First, I want to thank you all for your comments the last few days, I really appreciate them:)
This card is for 2 challenges, SCS sketch and the Way to Use It (incorporate stars into the design).

I remembered that this too stinkin' cute set from October Afternoon called Night Light has a little star stamp, ohhh. My nephew's birthday is in a few week's and I thought the monsters would be perfect for him. For the background dp and the monster on the right I used paper we just got in stock from October Afternoon's Daydream collection. To make the cutout circles on the image panels I just used the bigger hole on my Crop-a-Dile and added the teal background paper behind it and then added some inking with Cat's Eye colorbox chalk. The clip is one I pulled out from my stash and the ribbon is from the store. Are you ever in need of the PERFECT word bubble? Check out this set called Comic Bubbles from October Afternoon. I consider this set a sort of staple item.

If you *heart* the monster set like I do, go grab it. There are only 4 left in stock and we are not ordering more, be sure to check out the Night Light Paper pack while you're at it. The Bittersweet line from Basic Grey went fast!!! We do have 4 6x6 pads left in stock. We are going to order more, but if you don't want to wait, snatch up what's left:)

Thanks for stamping by today~

The Cat's out of the Bag!

2009-01-07T09:29:00.000-08:00

Hi! So here it is, the news I know you have all been absolutely waiting breathlessly to hear. I am this month's Special Guest Designer for The Cat's Pajamas, isn't that just the cat's meow?!!!

I met Alma last spring at the shoebox swap in Texas. She is Kim's (the MFT lady) BSF and a very generous and warm person. Even though she didn't know me, she handed me 2 of her fabulous stamp sets to play with. I cannot begin to convey how completely fortunate I feel to be surrounded by some of the most creative, outgoing and kind people in the stamping industry, and that they know my name is just icing on the cake.

One of the stamp sets I received from Alma was It's a Mod, Mod World. The fun retro images lend themselves perfectly to designs like this, clean but funky. I made my oval nesties work very hard for this card. The black ovals were created by cutting the larger shape first and then running it back through the machine with the smaller die lined up on the edges. The tv is colored with watercolor pencils and a blender pen and trimmed. The paper is from the Basic Grey 6x6 pad, Offbeat. I used Ranger Glossy Accents to accent the tv screen.

Thanks so much, Alma for letting me play in your sand box!

Now, what I know you really came for is the winner of the blog candy
Here are your random numbers:3
Timestamp: 2009-01-07 17:28:48 UTC

That makes...
Cheri Howard said...
Happy New Year! I love this card you made. I'm sure the recipient will love it, too.
...the winner!!! Thanks for all your sweet comments everyone:)

I don't know if you have noticed, but I am getting awfully close to 100k hits. I will be back with some more blog candy to get the party started:)

Thanks for stamping by today~

What a Hoot!!

2009-01-06T20:55:00.000-08:00

Hi! Welcome to My Favorite Blog Hop. I hope you've had a great time looking at the adorable new stamps being released Wednesday night from My Favorite Things. If you would like to start the hop from the beginning, check out Kim's Blog

I cannot even begin to tell you how much I *heart* this new Stephanie Fizer set. Aren't they the cutest. I stamped 2 of the owls onto PTI white and trimmed and adhered them to PTI lemon tart cs. The branch was stamped with Ranger Peeled Paint stamped off once, then embossed with clear ep. The flowers were stamped with SU! White Craft ink and then embossed with white ep. I painted the chipboard flourish with pearl paint from Close to My Heart. For the inside I stamped the owl with Brown Memento Ink and colored him with watercolor pencils and a blender pen and stamped the corner with a few of the whimsical circles and flowers that come with the set. The dp is from Basic Grey Urban Prairie 6x6 pad.

The next stop on this fabulous blog hop is Lauren

Thanks for stamping by~

Be Mine

2009-01-05T15:29:00.000-08:00

Hi! Here's a little peek at one of the 4 new sets being released on Wednesday at My Favorite Things. Flopsey is back as a Valentine!

I paired him with Basic Grey Bittersweet 6x6 paper and played the TLC challenge to use red line tape and glitter. I stamped Flopsey with Memento Rich Cocoa and colored him with Copic markers.

Don't forget to leave a comment on the previous post for you chance to win some 12x12 sheets from the Urban Rhapsody stack from K&Co. (You can leave a comment just for me here;)

Thanks for stamping by today!

Swell News....

2009-01-04T18:26:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone! I am trying not to make only posting on Sunday a habit. I have been busy making cards, some for a class and some for a TOP SECRET gig....oohhhh, do I have your attention now?? I will be able to spill the beans a little later this week:)

So on to the My Favorite Things Who's That Girl Challenge (keyword MFTWTG16). The featured stamp set this week is She's Having a Baby. The challenge is to use paper piercing or stitching in your creation. I used machine stitching, as you can see. I paper pieced the dress and colored the rest of the image and sentiments with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. The dot paper is from October Afternoon and the striped pattern is from the K&Co. stack called Urban Rhapsody. Have I shared with you the extent of my paper problem? I literally cannot walk past it at Michaels when it is on sale, that is how I ended up with this stack.

Blog Candy Alert

To that end, if you leave me a sweet comment on this post I will send you one of each of the patterned papers from the Urban Rhapsody stack (deadline Tues. 1/5) I know that's fast but I have lots going on this week:) That's a nice way to start off the new year, huh?

Thanks for stamping by today, hope you had a happy and safe new year!

One more mini treat box...

2008-12-28T16:08:00.000-08:00

I am back with one more mini treat box. I needed to do a card for this weeks Who's That Girl Challenge with the featured set Hot Stuff. The challenge is to use torn paper. It occurred to me that this little box might be perfect for some tea bags. The wrapped tea bags are too big, but as luck would have it, I just purchased some tea the other day that looked yummy and the bags are these wonderful little triangle shaped things...perfect for the little box.

I used the tiniest bit of paper from the Basic Grey line Bittersweet.

I tucked 5 of the Lipton tea bags into the box.

I stamped the tea cup on the mini envelope to match the rest of the gift set. This card measures just 2 1/2 x 3 1/2". The brad on the front of the box is a glazed brad from the Bittersweet collection also.

I think that covers everything! Please let me know if you have any questions! Thanks for stamping by!

So...tweet

2008-12-28T09:38:00.000-08:00

Hi! It has been too long since my last post. I hope you all had a wonderful holiday and you spent it exactly the way you wanted. Mine was just wonderful. I really needed some new clothes, so I went shopping a few days before Christmas and got what I wanted....life is so good:)

I didn't stamp at all for about 8 days, but I was having a great time hanging out with my kids and getting ready for Christmas. I think my little vacation is over though because the day before Christmas I got 2 boxes of fabulousness in for Paper Addiction which you are going to see a bunch of links for, so here we go...

As a little Christmas present, Michelle (flaxychick) has put another free template for this mini candy box on the site for you to download and enjoy! This little box is sooooo easy to put together. You know I needed to use the new line from Imaginisce in stock called Twitterpatted

The size of the box is suited for a little treat. Michelle used mini cookies, I used a mini zip lock bag (found in the cake decorating section at Michaels) and added red M&M's. I have a million of the the little bags now. If you place an order at PaperAddiction, I will include 3 for you, just leave a comment to let me know you would like me to include them in your order.

To finish the box and the mini card, I used ribbon from the Are You Red-y assortment and buttons from Basic Grey. Speaking of Basic Grey, that is the other fun delivery I got in. The totally fabulous Bittersweet collection, just in time to get started on all your Valentine's projects. Wouldn't these little boxes be perfect to give to the Valentine's in your life?

The mini card measures 2 x 3 1/4". We have the perfect mini envelopes in stock for these fun little cards. The stamp is from the Twitterpated collection and I got to use my new Nestabilities Small Label set. There are only 2 left in stock and going for $20, a fantastic price!!!

Thanks so much for stamping by today!

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!!!

2008-12-18T09:41:00.000-08:00

Hi! I know many of you reading this will be shaking your heads and thinking, "Hasn't this girl ever seen snow before and who cares anyway!" I just can't resist sharing these pictures of snow in Las Vegas. This was a really BIG weather event for us, school is cancelled today (my kids are absolutely beside themselves:) and we are hanging out inside all bundled up.

Above is a walking path around the golf course.

My son, who is turning 13 tomorrow. I don't think he would have made a snow angel if his friends were around.

My girl:)

The Griswold decorations finally don't look out of place with snow around.

That's a waterfall in the corner of my backyard. I left in running so it wouldn't freeze.

Thanks so much for indulging me with my snow story! Have a snuggly day:)

Hello

2008-12-15T07:58:00.000-08:00

Hi! Today you will see the extent of my fickleness. It is officially cold in Las Vegas (lightly snowing as I write this) and I am longing for spring. As I mentioned yesterday Michelle (flaxychick) came up with this fun 4x4 folded card sketch. I used a Karen Stopler image I just got.

I used a 12x12 piece of Bazzil paper and added this fresh green print from October Afternoon Night Light Collection.

I stamp the image with Rich Cocoa Memento ink and colored with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. The sentiment and additional flower images are Studio G stamps I am absolutely addicted to collecting at Michaels. Do you have the same problem? I added Crystal Ice Stickles to the waterdroplets and flower for a pretty shimmer. The keyword for Michelle's sketch is TCCSK.

One more thing, my friend Carrie of My Little Stamp Shack is having an amazing sale, lots of stamps 40% off.

Thanks so much for stamping by today~

Girl Talk

2008-12-14T16:00:00.001-08:00

Hi! This is for this week's My Favorite Things Who's That Girl Challenge. The featured set this week is Call Me and the challenge is to use brown, blue and white (I used cream:). Call Me is the featured set, but you can use whatever set you would like to play along, use the keyword MFTWTG14.

I did lots of paper piecing on this card, just the shirt and pants are colored with Copic Markers. I did some digging in my scrap pile for this paper from My Minds Eye. I also used a few SU! Filigree Flowers that I have been hoarding.

Tomorrow I am going to yoga and then a few of us from class are going to take a knitting class. I know, like I need another hobby;) I have to try to keep of with my BSF Michelle (flaxychick) who spins her own yarn....yeah I know, I hate her too:) Most days it's all I can do to get a card done and she is whipping out hats, scarves and cool cards on top of it. I secretly think she shears her own sheep, but she won't admit that to me because she knows I would have to quit talking to her. (You know I love you Michelle:) Oh, by the way she has started her own sketch challenge, go check it out. I am posting mine card for it tomorrow.

Yesterday, I worked at my LSS for an open house they had, I was in charge of the make and takes and met some very cool crafters including Marko, the son of one of my stamping class girls. I am hoping to get him to come to one of my classes:)

I did get most of my shopping done last night, whew! Thanks so much for stamping by today~

Warm Wishes

2008-12-11T15:22:00.000-08:00

Hi! Isn't this the cutest image from The Cat's Pajamas!?. I played along with this week's TCP challenge which was to use Red, Green and Lt. Blue and Jen Del Muro's SFYTT.

I colored the image with Copic Markers and added lots of stickles to this card for added shimmer.

So how are you coming along with your Christamas preparations? I am not doing very well:( I have crossed a few things off my list, but have not gone shopping at all. I am getting some Christmas cards done...one at time, lol!!

Thanks so much for stamping by today!~

JOY

2008-12-09T08:20:00.001-08:00

Hi! Look what just came in over at PaperAddiction.com...Small Label Dies, woohoo! I haven't even had a chance to open mine and play yet, but I couldn't wait to share. We have a very limited quantity so if you are interested get over there:) If you place your order today it will be shipped out tomorrow!!!

While you are there pick up some of this fabulous paper from Scenic Route, on clearance while supplies last.

I stamped this super cute Karen Stopler image onto vanilla cardstock and colored it with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. I then added Ranger Glossy Accents to the ornaments. The ribbon is also from PaperAddiction. The little circles around the image and main card is hand doodled and colored.

Thanks so much for stamping by!

Chillin'

2008-12-07T18:47:00.000-08:00

Hi! As promised, here is my card for this week's My Favorite Things Who's That Girl Challenge. The featured stamp set this week is Baby It's Cold Outside. I used some paper from My Mind's Eye for the color inspirations and went from there. The image is stamped with Rich Cocoa Memento ink colored with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. It was very cloudy here today so I couldn't capture the pretty look of the Stickles (20% off this week at PaperAddiction.com) I used on the ground.
The ribbon doesn't look like it matches in this photo, but I assure you it does in real life:) Thanks so much for stamping by!

Peace and Christmas Decorations

2008-12-07T15:14:00.000-08:00

Hi! I don't know where the time is going, but it's going. I worked a little at my LSS last week in the store and I had a class. I need to throw a shout out to Marko. His mom has taken a couple of my classes and he likes to check out my blog. Thanks you guys, that makes me happy:)

I am going to share a little known secret...I am married to Clark Griswold. Yes, this is my house which was decorated yesterday. He has been decorating our house like this (some years even more) since we moved in 9 years ago. He has won the neighborhood lighting contest at least 6 times (there are 2000 homes in our community:) I can't vacuum the house when all the lights are on 'cause I blow the breaker box.
That's my daughter with a new acquisition.

I have to make sure our insurance policy is up to date around this time every year.

Well, on to a card. I did this for the PaperCraftPlanet.com sketch challenge from 12/6/08. I got brand new stamps from the Cat's Pajamas this week and had to ink them up. I love the elegance of this card. The Cuttlebugged panel was done with heavy vellum. I used clear ep for the reindeer, poinsettias and the sentiment.

I will be back in just a little bit with another post for My Favorite Things Who's That Girl Challenge. Thanks so much for stamping by!

My Favorite Blog Hop

2008-12-02T21:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to My Favorite Blog Hop! If you would like to start from the beginning to see all the fun MFTeasers for December's release start HERE at Kim's Blog.

As you can see I did a little somethin', somethin' with the paper doll set. I started out with an unfinished shadowbox frame, small frame and mirror, treasure box, monogram, flower petal and circle from Michaels and painted them with some fun colors. I stamped and colored all the fun little items from the stamp set and added a little magnet to the back of each item. The flower center has a magnet sheet attached to the back side of a piece of coordinating cardstock, so all the little accessories will stay in place.

The next stop on your blog hop journey is Jody.

Here's all the details for the release party!!!!

My Favorite Things (http://www.mftstamps.com/) is having a New Release Cocktail Party on Wednesday, December 3rd from 9-10 p.m. Eastern time. This month there are THREE new sets being released including a TOTE-ally awesome Who's that Girl set!Head over to the MFT forum on http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/ to find out all the details and to find out how YOU can be the next MFT Guest Designer. We hope to see you there on Wednesday night.

Thanks for stamping by!

Elves and Apple Martinis...life is good:)

2008-12-01T07:03:00.000-08:00

Hi! I just love this saying from My Favorite Things Merry Christmas? set! This is the featured set for this weeks Who's That Girl Challenge. The challenge is to use some bling on the project. I used Stickles for the ornament and the brads are all sparkly. If you have a chance to play upload you creation using the keyword MFTWTG12.

I am so excited that I finally got the Nestabilites Labels Two Die cuts. There are a few left in the store if you want to snatch one up:)

I am running a little late for yoga this morning so that's it for now, just let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks for stamping by!

Baby It's Cold Outside

2008-11-29T20:05:00.000-08:00

Hi! Let me just start off my saying that I have not stepped foot in a single store except for Michaels to get something essential for finishing a super secret project. It's not that secret, but I do have to wait until Monday to show it to you...think new stamps from My Favorite Things. I can't wait to hear what you think of this project. If you are wondering why I don't shop on this weekend it's because I have a hard time with crowded places. I wouldn't call it a phobia, more of a very short temper:) KWIM. Do you feel like that, or do you thrive on the thrill of the hunt?

I haven't had a chance to play in the challenges going on at PaperCraftPlanet, but today was the day! I played their sketch challenge and day 2 of the 12 Days of Christmas challenge, use a bird or reptile(?) hey, I don't make up the challenges, I just play 'em. I hope a penguin counts as a bird (I need to get out of my studio a little more:). I used this super cute penguin from The Cat's Pajamas. I stamped him in brown and Pomegranate embossed the brown one and added a little color to the hat and trimmed it. The same with the sign. I added Liquid Pearls for the snow. The paper is of course from PaperAddiction.com, from The Basic Grey Line, Wassail. FYI, those adorable mini suitcases are back in stock, just in time for unique gift giving.

Thanks so much for stamping by!

Chillin'

2008-11-27T10:24:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving if you are stopping by today! I made this card yesterday, but couldn't get a good picture. This is for the sketch challenge and the What's up Wednesday for My Favorite Things. The challenge was to use some kind of water element. I am hoping that snow counts, but if it doesn't I went with my favorite coloring medium, watercolor pencils and a blender pen.

I used paper and buttons from the Basic Grey, Wassail line. We are having a sale starting tomorrow so be sure to check back.

I am not usually so together this early for Thanksgiving so I thought I would share before my guests arrive. This is my fabulous dining room table with my lovely dishes. Isn't it fun getting the table all dressed up. These are my everyday dishes. I don't believe in only pulling out your good stuff for a special occasion, everyday is a special occasion in my opinion:) That being said I don't pull out the chargers everyday because they don't fit in my dishwasher and I don't like doing dishes:(

This is the view of my dining room from my studio. Pretty cool, huh! That painting is one we got about 5 years ago, it was a Christmas present for me from my wonderful husband. I just love this artist. His name is Thomas Arvid. After we bought the painting we had the pleasure of meeting him. He turned out to be an absolutely cool, down to earth guy.

So what do you think, am I sharing too much today? I do want to wish all of you a happy Thanksgiving. I am grateful you stamped by today:)

Give Thanks

2008-11-26T15:29:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving, cyber friends! I colored this image while I was attending The Copic Certified Training and thought it was about time to get it on a card.

Thanksgiving is at my house, but I am getting lots of help from my MIL, my mom and the friends we have coming over. I hope your holiday is exactly how you would like:)

Thanks for stamping by!

Warm Wishes

2008-11-23T20:26:00.000-08:00

Hi! It is finally cooling off a little here in fabulous sunny Las Vegas;) I am feeling a little more in a holiday mood. This week, the My Favorite Things Who's That Girl featured stamp is Nature Calls. I used the tree from the set to create this sweet holiday card. The challenge part of the feature is to use pieces from your scrap pile (don't pretend like I am the only one who has one:) Upload your creations with the keyword MFTWTG11.

I stamped the image in Versamark and then added Mellow Moss and brown for the trunk. I embossed the tree with iridescent embossing powder. I then added Ranger liquid Pearls for snow. The snowflake was done with a Martha Stewart punch. The sentiment is from the MFT set called A Scarf for Three. The paper is from the fabulous 6x6 BasicGrey paper pad, Wassail.

And what you are all waiting for, the winner of The Cat's Pajamas Stamp set and paper from PaperAddiction is...

Here are your random numbers:6
Timestamp: 2008-11-24 04:38:32 UTC

Love the card---- I also love all of the colors of paper !!! Thanks for the chance at winning.Sherri Alspach

Sherri, you have until Wednesday to contact me. Thanks for playing everyone!

Thanks for stamping by!

Sending Hugs

2008-11-20T11:52:00.000-08:00

Hi there! Can you believe I am posting 2 cards today, I know!!! I was inspired. The first is for My Favorite Things sketch 57 and for today's Way to Use it Challenge on SCS; to use pearls. I have had these black pearls for awhile and am thrilled to use a bunch here. The set is a newly released one from My Favorite Things called Who's That E-girl. I stamped her onto Basic Grey paper and colored a little with Copics and paper pieced the skirt. The striped DP is from the 6x6 Basic Grey Eva pad in stock again at PaperAddiction.com

This stamp is from American Art Stamps. I stamped the image onto vanilla cs and colored it with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. I then used my brand new bottle of Ranger Sepia Accents to go over the snowman and the tall legged people to give them a wonderfully antiqued look. The paper is from Scenic Route Garland line.

Don't forget about the blog candy I have up for grabs in the previous post!

Thanks for stamping by!

More blog candy!!!

2008-11-19T16:11:00.000-08:00

Hi! This is for yesterday's The Cat's Pajamas Challenge and for today's sketch challenge at SCS. The TCP challenge was to use a birthday set. I used You Say It's Your Birthday.

I stamped the image with Black Memento ink and colored it with Copic markers and used some SU! markers for the doodling around the edge. The paper is from PaperAddiction.com and is from the Scenic Route line on sale this week for 10% off, woohooo!

I told you I would have some more blog candy this week:) Do you want to win this set from the Cat's Pajamas along with some paper from PaperAddiction.com? If you post a link on your blog to this blog candy and leave a message here, you will be entered to win. If you don't have a blog, just tell me what you like about PaperAddiction or what you would like to see added. You have until Midnight Saturday, November 22 to post a comment. Thanks

One more piece of business. If you haven't heard, American Art Stamps is looking for a new member for the design team. Check out this POST to get all the details. Their stamps are so fun, go check it out!

Thanks for stamping by!

Bone Jour

2008-11-17T07:57:00.000-08:00

Hi! This is for the My Favorite Things Who's That Girl Monday Challenge. The featured stamp this week is Gone to the Dogs, but you can play with any MFT set. The challenge part is to use 2 different types of patterned paper and 3 buttons. Use the keyword MFTWTG10 when uploading to SCS.

I used some Basic Grey paper from the 6x6 Offbeat pad, at PaperAddiction.com. I stamped the image with Brown Memento ink and colored the parts that aren't paper pieced with watercolor pencils and a blender pen.

Thanks so much for stamping by!

I have a winner!!!

2008-11-17T07:52:00.000-08:00

The winner of my blog candy is Jacqueline, congratulations!!!

Here are your random numbers:14
Timestamp: 2008-11-17 15:45:29 UTC

Thanks to all who played, I have some more to giveaway in the next couple of days!!!

Going Places Luggage and Tag

2008-11-14T14:54:00.000-08:00

Hi! Look at what's now available at PaperAddiction.com When I saw these miniature suitcases I knew I had to have them. I had a few ideas what I would use them for and this isn't actually what first came to mind, but I love it. I created a luggage tag...this one is for me, but wouldn't it be fun to make several to give to friends or relatives going on a trip. How about a little graduation gift. Endless possibilities!

These little suitcases measure 4 1/2 x 3 1/8 x 1 3/4. They are so small and cute I can hardly stand it:)

The tag measures 2 1/4 x 3 1/4. I made the charm from the My Favorite Things set called Going Places, with Shrinky Dinks. I haven't ever used them for stamping before (the last time I played with them I was 12:) and I LOVE it. I feel like a little girl again. I stamped onto the Shrinky Dinks with brown Staz-on and colored it with Copic Markers. I printed my name and info on the cardstock and trimmed it to fit on the brown cardstock. I cut another piece of cardstock for the reverse side of the tag and added the plane and the sentiment, Going Places to it. I stitched around the edges and adhered both sides to the brown tag. I then laminated the tag and punched a hole with my Crop-a-Dile and added the charm with a small chain. I need to plan a trip using my new luggage tag:)

Don't forget about the AMAZING blog candy I am giving away in the last post. Please show a little love and leave a comment for it:) (leave the comment on the last post please if you want to try for it)

Thanks for stamping by!

It's a Party!!!!

2008-11-12T08:09:00.000-08:00

Hi! Little Monkeys (StoreMoreStamps.com) is having their first birthday and you get the presents!!! If you haven't checked out the Store More Stamps storage system yet, you are in for a treat. This unique system gives you the room to store you fabulous stamp collection in a fun and efficient way!. Check out the horrific way I kept my stamps before. Mostly contained in these photo storage boxes, but not in any order and certainly not easy to find.

Here are the my swanky Cat's Pajamas stamp sets, I kept them in the original packaging so I could find them:)

Now look at their fabulous new digs. All nice and neat and easy to find, does life get much better than organized stamps, I think not:)

I have been so excited to share this super fun project with you to help celebrate Little Monkeys 1st Birthday. You know the swankiest stamp company on the block had to be involved in the whole deal. Alma from the The Cat's Pajamas, sent the whole DT uber cool birthday stamps to play with and some to give away to you, my dear blog readers.

I made this super fun and very cool gift card holder for the party! The gift holder is made from a kit that you can get at PaperAddiction.com.

Want to make your very own? It's going to cost you....

Take a minute to go leave a little love on both the Little Monkey's blog and The Cat's Pajamas Blog then come back and tell me how many clear stamps you have and would like to store in a more efficient way (I have more than I can tell my DH about:) What's in it for you???

Smells Like Cake Stamp Set from The Cat's Pajamas

A set of Sleeves with Inserts from StoreMoreStamps.com

A Gift Card Holder Kit and Imaginisce paper from PaperAddiction.com

So start leaving those comments my stamping friends, you have until Sunday, November 16 at midnight!

Aren't you glad you stamped by today!

LOOK!

2008-11-11T16:15:00.000-08:00

Yay, we finally got the Night Light line in from October Afternoon at PaperAddiction.com. When Michelle and I saw this collection at CHA over the summer, it was love at first sight. Aren't these the cutest monsters ever?!!! This collection is perfect for little boy cards or just everyday fun. We have lots of new things in the store, be sure to hop over and check it out!

I stamped the monster on PTI white cs with Rich Cocoa Memento Ink (my favorite all purpose stamp pad and the best when using Copic Markers:) I colored him with Copics. All the decorative paper is from the Night Light Collection.

Thanks so much for stamping by!

A New Pair of Shoes

2008-11-09T16:27:00.000-08:00

Hi! So what is it about new shoes that make me feel all sassy? I can't really say except maybe it's the possibility of where those new shoes might take me, kinda corny right?

Well, I think Kim did it again with this fun set from My Favorite Things called Window Shopping. This is for the Who's That Girl Challenge. The challenge this week is to show a little love to your embellishment stash. I pulled out 7 brads for this one! If you want to play along upload your creations to SCS using the keyword MFTWTG9.

That fun dp is from Basic Grey 6x6 paper pad Offbeat, on sale this week at Paper Addiction for just $5...don't wait they are going fast. Doesn't it look great paired with my new Ripe Avacado paper from PTI. I colored the image with my Copic Markers.

Have you joined Paper Craft Planet yet. Where do you think I have been this week, lol. It has such a fun vibe. If you click on the link on the right column it will take you there. If you are one of my readers and join, please select me to be on your friend list. I would love to get to know you:)

Thanks so much for stamping by!

My Favorite Things Blog Hop

2008-11-04T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi! Welcome to My Favorite Blog Hop!!! If you have just come here and want to start the hop from the beginning, jump on over to Kim's Blog.

Here are peeks at 2 more sweet images from Annie LaPoint. Both were colored with Copic Markers.

The paper is from Scenic Route, isn't it just scrumptious?!! It has such a romantic feel to it. The Geranium image was stamped right onto the decorative paper. The charm is a dragonfly I've had in my stash forevah:)

The next My Favorite Blogger is one of my BSF's... Michelle Giraud (flaxychick) Twisted Chick Creations Go check out the fabulous sample she has done!!!

My Favorite Things (http://www.mftstamps.com/) is having a New Release Cocktail Party on Wednesday, November 5th from 9-11 p.m. Eastern time. This month there are FIVE new sets being released, including THE must have Who's That Girl set of the year!Head over to the MFT forum on http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/ to find out all the details and to find out how YOU can be the next MFT Guest Designer. We hope to see you there on Wednesday night.

Thanks for stamping by!

Celebrate in Style

2008-11-03T10:28:00.000-08:00

Hi! I hope everyone had a fun Halloween! I invited some friends over, ordered some pizza and wings and opened a bottle of wine. The kids wanted to go Trick or Treating on their own (one mom followed in her car) so I stayed at home with the giant bowl of candy and wine and friends and had an unexpectedly fabulous Halloween, good times:)!

This card is for the My Favorite Things Who's That Girl Challenge. The featured set this week is You Take the Cake and the challenge is to use a sentiment from a different MFT set. I used a sentiment from Let's Go for a Walk. I really like the color combo for this card. The paper is from October Afternoon the Hometown collection. I stamped the image on PTI white cs and colored a little with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. I added some Crystal Effects to the flowers for a little dimension. If you want to play along, upload your creations to MFTWTG8

Thanks for stamping by!

Warm Wishes

2008-10-31T14:51:00.000-07:00

Hi! I am sending Warm Wishes to all of you who are getting snow and cold weather:) Aren't these snowmen from My Favorite Things just adorable. They are out of stock right now, but are expected back in shortly.

The paper from the Scenic Route Garland line is available today at PaperAddiction for 10% off. You know you want it:). I stamped the image with Brown Memento ink on watercolor paper and added the brown shading with a brown watercolor pencil and a blender pen. I then did the cracked glass technique. You emboss the entire image 3 times with clear embossing powder and then put it in the freezer for a few minutes and then bend it to crack. So what do you think?

Happy Halloween, thanks for stamping by!

Trick or Treat

2008-10-30T08:27:00.000-07:00

Hi there! I made this card for a fabulous friend of mine who loves these whimsical people from American Art Stamps. I stamped this adorable witch onto light grey cs with Black Memento ink and colored her with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. The button is from Making Memories.

While I didn't make anything in the baskets above, I thought they turned out super cute. The baskets came from Mike's and the stuff inside came from Target and Hallmark. The baskets included a small paint tin with hot chocolate, Smores candy corn, Toil and Trouble gum balls, barrels o' slime, and some seasonal dish towels. I gave 2 of the baskets to my friends last night and they loved them. I think this is a fun time to give unexpected gifts.

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

Cool Yule

2008-10-29T11:29:00.000-07:00

Hi! I am being like retail stores today and not even waiting until Halloween is over to bring out the Christmas stuff:) The first card is for this week's The Cat's Pajamas Challenge, a really fun sketch from Leigh. I wanted to use this fabulous paper from Scenic Route available this week at a 10% discount at Paper Addiction.

I love this Poochie image because there isn't much to do once he is stamped. I added some Fruit Punch stickles to his scarf and some Liquid Pearls to the chimney for snow.

This card is for today's SCS Sketch Challenge. I used the same paper line (since it was on my desk:) and used the stamps also from Scenic Route. I colored the ornaments with watercoloring pencils and a blender pen and covered them with Crystal Effects.

I did get some baking done yesterday and am going downstairs to put some fun Trick or Treat baskets together for some of my friends. I am so excited for Halloween, boo!

Thanks for stamping by!

Who's That Girl Challenge Week #7

2008-10-26T18:52:00.000-07:00

Hi! This is for the My Favorite Things Who's That Girl Weekly Challenge. The featured stamp this week is Falling for You and the challenge is to use something from nature. Now, if I can find something in the desert (dead tree branches) I am fairly confident you can find something where you are:) You don't have to use this set to play along. The keyword for uploading to SCS is MFTWTG7.

I stamped the image on PTI white cs and colored the leaf pile with my Copic Markers. I do love how you can layer the colors and it doesn't get muddy looking. The decorative paper is of course from Paper Addiction from the Scenic Route Sonoma line, perfect for fall cards. I am working on some design team stuff this week, but should be back with some fun stuff this week.

I don't know about you but I am completely in the mood to do some baking, even though it is still pretty warm here, 80 degrees today. Maybe I will be back with some recipes!

Thanks for stamping by!

So many challenges..so little time:(

2008-10-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

Hi! I can't believe I haven't posted since Sunday, arrrggghhh. Rest assured dear blog readers that I have been VERY busy. Since last Thursday I have taught 3 classes and cut countless amounts of paper and have been busy checking in brand new product at Paper Addiction. It has been fun, fun, fun, but I miss blogging and making new stuff.

I combined the color and sketch challenge from SCS this week for this adorable card. The image is from Pink Cat Studio and my fabulous blogging friend and Little Stamp Shack owner, Carrie, has this adorable stamp and everything else in her store on sale right now for 25-35% off. This stamp is currently out of stock, but she has a waiting list:)

I stamped the image on PTI white CS with Memento Rich Cocoa ink and colored her with my Copic markers. To mimic the dots from the decorative paper I used the Copics to make little circles and then traced around them with the fine tip of the brown SU! marker. I added Fruit Punch Stickles to her collar and Liquid Pearls to her hat. What do you think?

As I mentioned, there is lots of new inventory at Paper Addicition, whoohoo. The DP is from the Garland line from Scenic Route, go check it out!

Thanks so much for stamping by!
Laura

Feel Better Soon

2008-10-19T20:41:00.000-07:00

Hi! I have had this card rolling around in my head for such a long time. I am so glad I finally have room for something else:) This is for the My Favorite Things Who's That Girl Challenge. The featured set this week is Bunny Slippers, but remember you can you any MFT set you have, we just want you to get some ink on your stamps! The challenge part of our program was to use pink, purple and white. I have the tiniest amount of white in my card, look very closely.

I made this a long card 3 1/4 x 8 1/4 to allow for the images. The images were colored with Copic markers and then trimmed. I used my Nestabilities to cut the little ovals and just drew the plus and equal signs with a brown marker and added some doodling.

Thanks so much for stamping by!

Laura

Home Sweet Home Box and Card

2008-10-16T15:37:00.000-07:00

Hi! Well, Michelle has done it again and made a new box template! I just happen to have new neighbors and thought this little box would be perfect to bring them a few cookies to welcome them to the neighborhood. I make fabulous chocolate chip cookies:) I am baking in a little bit, so I will have to post another pic once the box is filled.

This box template is available for .99 at Paper Addiction or is free with any purchase, a smokin' hot deal if you ask me (use the keyword TEMPLATE during checkout to receive it free). The paper is from the Weathervane Collection and that adorable house stamp is from Home Sweet Home, the set is available for $12.75 while supplies last!

I stamped the house on PTI white cs and colored it with colored pencils and a blender pen. The dots are done with a brown SU! marker.

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

Eek!

2008-10-15T14:48:00.000-07:00

Hi! I had such a hard time trying to decide which image to use, the owl or the spider that I just went with one of each. These are from the October Afternoon set called Beware the Spooks, I only have one left in stock (it's sold now) so you might want to grab it while you can. Check out Michelle's new box template while you're there. It's free with any purchase!

These cards were so easy, I just stamped the image with black Memento ink and sponged the edge of the circle and distressed the edges of the other paper...done! The DP is from Cosmo Cricket.

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

No One in the World Like You

2008-10-12T20:07:00.000-07:00

Hi! It is once again my turn to host the My Favorite Things Who's That Girl Challenge. This week the featured stamp is Going Places. The challenge this week is to incorporate eyelets into your card. As you can see, I got a little crazy and used eight, yay me! But I think that it works well. You don't need to use this particular stamp, or even MFT stamps to play along. We just want you to get what you have inky. Make sure to see what kind of special Kim is having on this stamp on Monday. Use the keyword MFTWTG5 at SCS if you play along.

I stamped the image on PTI white paper and used my Copics to color this time. I added the extra suitcases to the left of the girl because once again I got my inky finger marks on the image panel once it was ALL done, ARRRGGGHHHH, why, why, why don't I learn:( I think it looks okay with the extra baggage:). The paper is from BasicGrey Ambrosia 6x6 pad.

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

Autumn Greetings

2008-10-12T09:48:00.001-07:00

Hi! I am happy to report that it is 48 degrees this morning. I got to wear a sweater yesterday:) It is supposed to climb back up into the 80's by the end of the week, but that's okay with me. Thanks for listening about my weather rants.

This card was made for the Featured Stamper Challenge at SCS. Anne Ryan is the featured stamper and I cannot even begin to say what a very special person she is. Not only is she a talented stamper she is one of the most generous people. I have received several RAK's from Anne, she just seems to know when someone needs a little pick me up. I cased this card from Anne's gallery. I used a different color combo and a image, but kept the main layout.

I used and image from American Art Stamps called Fall. I have already told you how much I love these images, so I will spare you more gushing. I did use some more paper from October Afternoon Weathervane line. The sale at Paper Addiction on this paper ends on Monday, October 13th and there are just a couple of packs left. Go check it out. I used watercolor pencils and a blender pen for this image.

Thanks so much for stamping by!
Laura~

Hope Your Holidays are a Hoot!

2008-10-09T16:29:00.000-07:00

Hi! This is for the My Favorite Things Sketch Challenge. You don't have to have MFT stamps to play along and if you upload to SCS you could win a $5 gift certificate to spend at the MFT store. I used one of the newly released Stephanie Fizer images called Christmas Owls. Aren't they adorable?

Today, I colored them with a blender pen and ink pads. Does the paper look a little familiar? I cannot even begin to tell you how much I heart this October Afternoon DP. This is from the Weathervane line and is called Chilly Mornings, isn't that touch of green fabulous! The dot pattern is the reverse of the starburst blue pattern. You can get 8 sheets from the collection for just $5.15 at Paper Addiction, WOW!

Just a little weather update...it is still hot and now VERY windy:(

Thanks so much for stamping by!

Laura~

Fall

2008-10-07T17:51:00.000-07:00

Hi! As most of you know I live in Las Vegas, and I know I shouldn't be complaining, but it is really unseasonably warm here. My car said 95 degrees today, arrrggghhh. The trees have not started to turn. What's going to happen is this, suddenly one day it's going to be 50 degrees or lower. We won't get to enjoy a mild fall. So instead of watching actual leaves turn I am forced to make cards that have fall leaves. That is my rant for today, thanks for letting me vent.

This card is for today SCS Color Challenge. I used a new stamp and paper we just got in for PaperAddiction. It's from October Afternoon, the line is called Weathervane. We are offering the stamp set and 2 each of 4 papers in a bundle for the discounted price of $17.15 (MSRP $21.40) As you can imagine they are going fast at that fabulous price, I have just two left (I am hardly able to get the samples done:) You guys rock!

I stamped the image with Memento ink and the leaves with SU! Pumpkin Pie and Old Olive ink. The charm is one I've had in my stash for a LONG time. This is such a fun, easy card to put together.

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

Let's Do Lunch

2008-10-06T15:34:00.000-07:00

Hi! One of my favorite things in the whole wide world is having lunch with my girlfriends, I think that is why I *heart* this stamp so much. I combined the My Favorite Things Who's That Girl Challenge for this week (use paper piecing) with the Technique challenge to make Jen Del Muro's pizza box. Wouldn't it be fun to include a gift card inside this super simple box?

I stamped the image on PTI white paper with Memento Rich Cocoa ink and paper pieced the outfits with paper from the 6x6 pads from BasicGrey called Offbeat and Ambrosia. Let me talk to you about this paper for a second. You are all familiar with BasicGrey, but these pads are particularly wonderful for cardmakers because they didn't just cut the full size sheets down, the patterns are smaller, much better for things like paper piecing. And guess what, they are in stock at PaperAddiction, so go get yours while they last. While you are there check out the really wonderful line we just got in from October Afternoon.

I was a vendor this weekend at a scrapbooking crop. I want to give a shout out to all the wonderful girls I met who were so gracious and welcoming to me, the new girl. You guys rock!

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

Popcorn Box

2008-10-03T10:17:00.001-07:00

Hi! My friend, Michelle (flaxychick), made the most adorable popcorn box and put the template on Paper Addiction for you to download FREE! This box has so many possibilities and is super easy to put together. I used the $1 Snowy Jo stamp and paper from the store. The 30% coupon for your entire purchase over $10 expires today, so go get your free template and place an order while you are at it (use the code NOWOPEN at checkout). Thanks to all of you who have shopped with us already!

Link back if you make a box so we can see what you did!

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

Good friends are always in style

2008-10-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

Hello! I made this for the SCS sketch challenge with another peek at a stamp set being released tonight at My Favorite Things called Window Shopping. I stamped the boot onto brown dp and trimmed. The other decorative paper is from BasicGrey Eva 6x6 pad available at Paper Addiction. To celebrate the opening of the store these paper pads which retail for $6 are just $4.20. The flat rate for shipping is just $5, my LSS is 10 miles from my house one way so with the 30% off it makes the paper packs VERY affordable. Just use the code NOWOPEN at checkout. The sale ends on Friday and I am going to a crop this weekend as a vendor with all the stock from the store, so if you are interested in any of our products get them while you can:) We will have new stock coming in the next two weeks, but we won't be re-ordering Imaginisce Hallowhimsy.

I have to spend some time getting things ready for this weekend and I am volunteering at school today. I hope I see you at the release tonight (see previous post for all the details).

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

I am a Design Monkey!!!

2008-09-30T16:31:00.000-07:00

Hi! As you might remember from this post, I am fan of the Little Monkeys stamp storage system. I am excited to announce that I am now on the brand new Little Monkeys Design Team, whoohoo! Starting today and going through the whole month of October they are celebrating Little Monkeys turning one year old. There will be giveaways and contests all month long, so head on over to check out all the fun things going on over there!

This is a sneak peek at one of the new stamps being released Wednesday by My Favorite Things. Annie LaPoint is the artist for this wonderful image which is the 5th stamp in the series of herb pots. I stamped the image on Sage Shadow and colored it with Copic Markers (I totally stole this technique from Michelle Giraud, FlaxyChick). Copic markers are fabulous for this because the colors stay pretty true even on the colored cardstock base. I inked up the Cuttlebug folder on the side that has writing on it and ran it through the machine with a piece of Really Rust cs. The embellishments are little studs from a package called Bangle Bling I found at Michaels in a clearance basket for $1. I just attached them with a little liquid glue.

My Favorite Things (www.mftstamps.com) is having a New Release Cocktail Party on Wednesday, October 1 from 9-11 p.m. Eastern time. This month there are SIX new sets being released, plus a new storage system for your MFT stamps that you are gonna love!Head over to the MFT forum on www.splitcoaststampers.com to find out all the details and to find out how YOU can be the next MFT Guest Designer. We hope to see you there on Wednesday night.

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

Who's That Girl Challenge Week #3

2008-09-28T20:07:00.000-07:00

Hi! Here's my card for this week's Who's That Girl Challenge featuring Let's Go for a Walk. You can find all the Who's That Girl stamp sets at My Favorite Things. This actual challenge is to use elements of the stamp set in a unique or fun way. I used the polka dot background stamp as a border for the image and used one of the party hats to make dp for the bottom of the card. I used watercolor pencils and a blender pen for coloring. I am really stuck on the watercolor pencils right now. I think I reach for them because I know just how to get the effect I want. With Copics, I am still trying to get to a point were they just do what I want them to do.

Please play along with any Who's That Girl set you have on hand. Use the keyword MFTWTG3 when uploading to SCS so we can see your creation!

Thanks so much for stamping by!

Laura!

Sprinkle a Little Happiness...

2008-09-28T14:51:00.000-07:00

Hello! I know kinda lame title, but I just got up from a nap and am feeling a little punchy. I finally got to participate in The Cat's Pajamas Challenge this week to use Sprinkle the Cat. I heart Sprinkle. I love the these challenges that get you inking up unloved stamps. I used paper from Imaginisce All Kinds of Happy again, do you see a theme going here? There is still time to get 30% off your ENTIRE order (not just one item) at Paper Addiction, just enter the coupon code NOWOPEN at checkout, easy peasy. I am personally handling all the shipping and have been able to ship ALL orders by the very next day. Our mission is to get you the best deals we can on fun papercrafting supplies! I stamped Sprinkle on cream cs with Black Memento Ink and colored the present with ink pads and a blender pen.

I needed a card I could mass produce pretty quickly for a show that I am going to. This is what I came up with using Hallowhimsy paper and stamps from Imaginisce. I stamped the image onto a circle I cut out with nestabilities. I added just a tiny bit of color with ink pads and a blender pen and distressed the edges of the circle. I just love that little spider
I will be back a little later with this week's My Favorite Things Who's That Girl? Challenge. Have a wonderful day!

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

All Kinds of Happy:)

2008-09-27T11:45:00.000-07:00

Hi! I made this for Beate's Weekend Sketch using the line from Imaginisce called All Kinds of Happy:) We have bundled the stamps together at Paper Addiction so you get 6 clear stamps for $5.75, but during our grand opening sale the 30% off price is just $4.02, very happy indeed! Remember you have to use the code NOWOPEN at checkout to receive the 30% discount on all items in your cart, whoohoo!

On to the card! I stamped the images with brown Memento ink and colored it with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. I added some diamond stickles to highlight parts of the cupcake, yum:). I added some doodling to the panels with a Chocolate Chip SU! marker. The crystal brads are from Making Memories.

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

Cheers!

2008-09-26T08:44:00.000-07:00

Hello! Well we have already gotten some orders at PaperAddiction, whoohoo! You guys are just fabulous! See previous post for all the details. Remember, you have until 12p tonight to get free shipping on discounted orders over $40. Use the code NOWOPEN at checkout.

This stamp is from American Art Stamps. I printed the sentiment on the computer and used a nestability to cut it out. 'Cheers' is the phrase that kept coming to mind while I was coloring these cocktails. After I colored the images with watercoloring pencils and a blender pen, I used Crystal Effects to add a little dimension to the glasses. Excuse me for a moment while I get something to drink....Okay I am back, hiccup! The ribbon is from Michaels. The paper is from Imaginisce Snowy Jo collection.

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

Paper Addiction Open for Business

2008-09-25T18:36:00.001-07:00

NOW OPEN....

I cannot even begin to tell you how excited I am that Michelle and I finally have stock in our store, Paper Addiction. I got a big order from Imaginisce today and a somewhat smaller order from BasicGrey. I am happy to say that all the cute Halloween Paper from Imaginisce I have been using is now sitting in my studio waiting to be sent out! To kick off the store opening we are offering 30% off your entire order AND free shipping on orders over $40 (after the discount has been applied. You have to place an order of $58 after the discount has been applied it will total $40.60, and then the shipping discount will be applied) Free shipping will be offered until 12p Friday, September 26. As I said before we want to treat this as a sort of co-op for cardmakers. Our main goal is to have some extra goodies to play with every month while sharing cool products with our stamping friends. The coupon code is NOWOPEN.

I had some scraps to play with while I was away over the weekend and stamped this fun mini card (2 x 3 1/4). The stamp is Imaginisce Snag 'em Haunted House and can be yours for the mini price of $.70. You can't beat that with a broomstick. But we only ordered 12 of them so you better snag 'em while you can!

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

Charming Snowman Sketch

2008-09-25T09:09:00.000-07:00

Hi! This is for today's Way to Use It and My Favorite Sketch Challenge. I stamped the tree from My Favorite Things Branch Out (such a versatile set) with brown ink and colored it a brown watercolor pencil and a blender pen. I stamped the snowflakes from My Favorite Things Baby It's Cold Outside with VersaMark and used a sponge applicator to apply blue chalk to make them pop. For the snow, I added Liquid Pearls to the tree where snow would accumulate. The paper is from Imaginisce, Snowy Jo line which we will have in stock in a couple of days at Paper Addiction. Stayed tuned for a coupon code once the order gets here, you won't be disappointed:)

Thanks so much for stamping by!
Laura~

Coffin Box

2008-09-24T21:12:00.000-07:00

Several of you inquired about what I worked on this weekend, your wait is over my stamping friends. Because sales were brisk, I only had time for this box and some small cards that I will share later. The coffin box comes in a kit, it includes the box with the lid, instructions for folding and 3 cards/inserts. I sewed my inserts together (thanks Angela) and decorated them as a mini scrapbook, but you could easily make cards or some other creative thing. No paper or embellishments are included, but I did use the Hallowimsy line from Imaginisce and a couple misc. stamps from My Favorite Things. I am not going to go into a lot of detail about the specifics of how I decorated the box, because I would love to see what you do if you get it. We have one left for sale at Paper Addiction, but are expecting some more. Please let me know if you are seriously interested in getting one or more so we can hook you up! (Retail is $7, but our opening special price will be $5, whoohoo!) Please let me know if you have any questions about how I did any portion of the box or book.

Outside top of box...

Front cover of book with faux stitching. I left room for a cute little candid pic of some little goblin.
Inside front cover of book
Outside side view of box (cause I can't figure out the order of uploading pics:(
More inside pages...

I just embossed the back of the book with the skull Snag Em' stamp and clear ep for a little extra somethin', somethin'

Please, just ask if you have any questions. Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

Haunted Sketch

2008-09-24T13:59:00.000-07:00

Hi! I really have no idea what I am going to do with all these Halloween cards, but I am having such a great time making them! This is the house from the MFT set called Monster Squad. Kim is having a special for today only...if you purchase Totally Witchin’, Monster Squad and Fright Night. If you purchase all 3, you’ll receive a full sized sentiment set for FREE! You can choose one of the following: Grateful Greetings, Happiest Birthday, Wishes, Lotsa Love, Tis the Season. Just add the sentiment set you would like to the comment section when you are checking out.

The sketch is from today's SCS sketch challenge. I stamped the image on PTI white cs and colored it with Copic markers. Just as I was finishing with all the inking and distressing I got a smudge on the house, arrrggghhhh. I think it adds charm:) Instead of coloring another image, I called Michaels to see if they had any Martha Stewart Fence punches left. The clerk found one hiding and said she would hold it for a little bit for me. Can you see now why it takes me most of the day to get a card done. After I went to Michaels I stopped in at Ross and then was famished and had to eat. So four hours later I have a card to post. I really think the fence is perfect, I had absolutely refused to buy it before. The paper is from Imaginisce. We should have some bundles for sale at Paper Addiction within 8 days (crossing my fingers).

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

Relax

2008-09-23T15:03:00.001-07:00

Relax is not in my vocabulary the past few weeks. I went to the scrapbooking weekend and was very excited when they offered to let me bring the items that Michelle and I were going to list for sale on Paper Addiction. Imagine my surprise when I completely sold out the Halloween line from Imaginisce and most of the Christmas line we had ordered in. I spent the day yesterday doing and inventory and getting another order together, which will hopefully be in before the end of this week. You have been very encouraging about our endeavor and I would like to say thanks for your patience.
I made this card for week 2 of the Who's That Girl Challenge. The featured stamp is Time for Bubbly, MFT's iconic bubble bath set! The challenge to go with it is to use the main color blue, 4 brads and 1 piece of ribbon. Please play along even if you don't have that particular stamp, we would love to see your creations! When uploading to SCS use the key word MFTWTG2.

I stamped the image on PTI white paper and colored it with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. The layout is not fussy at all just one piece of dp from Close to My Heart. I did emboss the tub several times with white ep to get a little bit of a porcelain look.

One more item of business, one of my stamping friends and fellow MFT sistahs is doing an amazing thing. If you haven't heard by now, Carolyn King (Cammie) is having a GIANT blog candy give away on her blog to benefit the Alzheimer's Association. To win the more than $1000 prize, all you need to do is read her post and follow the directions. She is such a fabulous girl doing a wonderful thing, please consider supporting her cause. I contributed 2 cards to the giveaway.

Tomorrow, I am going to post a picture of a coffin box I made on my weekend away!
Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

Boo!

2008-09-18T10:21:00.000-07:00

Hi! This is for 2 challenges. The first is the My Favorite Sketch Challenge, hosted by Frances (stampowl) this week. The second is the SCS Way To Use It Challenge, to use a silhouette. I don't the latter very often so I pulled out one of my newly released stamps from MFT called Branch Out. I stamped just a partial image and added the ghosts and then colored them lightly with a black watercolor pencil and blender pen. Super simple. I used a stipple brush with black ink to add distressing to the image panel and the sentiment panel.

I mentioned that I was going to be teaching some classes. I did this card (below) on Monday night with a group of very fun stampers and we had a blast. I showed them the watercolor pencil and blender pen technique. I didn't have my camera with me to get a group shot, but I was so impressed with their cards and walked away with some new ideas!
I am packing today for my scrapbooking weekend (I will be making cards, thank you very much:) I don't know if I will get a chance to post any other cards. I had a request for extra card kits from Monday night, so I need to get those put together. Is that something any of you would be interested in? I am selling the kit for $10 and it includes all the cut ingredients and stamped images to make this card and the Happy Haunting card from a few posts back. I can have orders shipped out on Monday and offer a discount on multiple kits. Have a fun and safe weekend!

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

Holiday Wishes

2008-09-17T09:37:00.000-07:00

Hello! I am absolutely in love with these images from American Art Stamps. They are very whimsical and totally fun to color!

I stamped her on vanilla cs with Rich Cocoa Memento ink and colored her with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. I followed the sketch from today at SCS. The paper is from Imaginisce and we will have some available for you on Tuesday at Paper Addiction, whoohoo.

I am going on a scrapbooking trip this weekend and have lots to do to get ready, so I am going to keep this short.

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

Friendship

2008-09-16T13:47:00.000-07:00

Hello! For today's color challenge on SCS, I pulled out an old favorite, Boho Blossoms, from My Favorite Things. I know I have mentioned before that color challenges are the most difficult for me so I just used touches of Real Red, Basic Grey and Always Artichoke. I just got that wonderful BasicGrey Butterfly paper yesterday from my LSS and it has touches of these colors, yay me! I stamped the flower on vanilla cs with real red, cut them out and distressed them with rust and chocolate chip. I added a row of paper piercing and a little more distressing to the vanilla layer. The bookplate is made from scrap chipboard. All done!

I am really going to try and get my Cat's Pajamas challenge done, also a color challenge...aarrrggghhh!!!!

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

Add some bling!

2008-09-14T18:56:00.000-07:00

Hello! I am so excited to be hostessing my first SCS My Favorite Things Forum Challenge. You know I love My Favorite Things stamps, but sometimes I need a little push to use all that I have. To that end, Toni (Toners) and I will be taking turns featuring a Who's That Girl Stamp every Monday. This week it's the stamp set Rain or Shine with some added bling. I wanted to use the set a little differently so I chose the umbrella. I stamped it with VersaMark and Pumpkin Pie onto PTI white cs. I embossed it 2 times with clear ep and then a third time with Iridescent Ice ep for a pretty shimmery effect. I added some Platinum Stickles under the umbrella. The raindrops were also embossed with shimmery ep. It's so hard to capture how shimmery this card is IRL. If you have this stamp set and want to play along use the keyword MFTWTG1 when uploading to SCS. If you upload your card by Wednesday at Midnight you will be entered to win a $5 MFT store gift certificate.

Some of the MFT Design Team girls played along, go check out their stuff!

Jessie

In addition to the challenge Toni and I are hosting, the rest of the team is busy with keeping fun things going on for each day of the week...

Mondays: Play along with Who’s That Girl?

Tuesdays: Find out more about MFT crew and fans on Thread Starter Tuesday

Wednesdays at 9pm EST: Chat it up MFT style!

Thursday: Get a little sketchy

Friday: a little Oldie PLUS Goodie

In case you want a head start (or order your set's:), here's the line up for the next 3 weeks

Time for Bubbly (Sept. 22)

Let's Go For a Walk (Sept. 29)

Meet Me at the Cafe (Oct. 6)

but you will have to wait for that day to see what the challenge is for that stamp;)

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura

Chillin'

2008-09-13T14:38:00.000-07:00

Hello! I am working on lots of samples this weekend and thought it would be fun to play Jen's SFYTT. My LSS just started carrying My Favorite Things stamps and they need some samples. I am trying not to get crazy with them:) Since they don't carry Copic markers, I am focusing on using watercolor pencils and a blender pen. I used Diamond Stickles for the snow. The paper and sparkly snowflake is from Imaginisce.

Speaking of Imaginisce, Michelle and I finally got our first orders in for Paper Addiction, but it's going to be just a few more days until we get everything ready to be posted. This line from Imaginisce will be in a bundle once everything is ready to go!

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

Happy Haunting

2008-09-11T07:59:00.000-07:00

Hello! This is for this week's MFT sketch. I used the MFT stamp set Fright Night. I stamped the image on PTI white cs and colored the image with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. The DP and black glitter brads are from Imaginisce. I am teaching a card class on Monday night so this card is doing double dute as a sketch and sample for the class.

I am off to take my daughter to school, so I have to keep this short. Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

You Can Do Anything...

2008-09-10T13:36:00.000-07:00

Hello! I really like the sentiment in this stamp set, Angels 3, from American Art Stamps. I used the sketch challenge at SCS for this card. I stamped the image onto PTI white cardstock and colored it with Copic markers. The dp is from my paper remnant bin. Pretty basic today.

I will be back tomorrow with this weeks My Favorite Things sketch challenge. Starting on Monday, I will be hosting along with Toni (Toners) a brand new challenge for My Favorite Things called Who's That Girl. We are going to use that week's featured stamp and adding a small challenge to go with it. The first featured stamp is Rain or Shine (one of my personal favorites), but you will have to wait until Monday to find out what the rest of the challenge is:)

What’s in for you? We thought you’d ask! So we decided to offer a $5 store gift certificate to one lucky winner each day! And on top of all that goodness, the daily winners will be thrown into a monthly drawing for a $25 gift certificate! Now that’s a reason to celebrate, don’t you think?Keep your eyes peeled and be ready to party on Sept 13th. Wanna know a little secret to get you started? You’ll need Rain or Shine for the very first challenge, so from now through Sept 13th, it’s 20% off, just to get you in the mood!

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

I'm back!

2008-09-09T16:36:00.000-07:00

Hello! The golf tournament was successful, over 18k was raised to donate to the American Cancer Society! On the day that I made my last post I found out that one of my best blogging friends, Sandy, found out her mother-in-law has cancer. They are absolutely heart-broken. She is asking fellow bloggers for RAKS. Please send a card her way if you can.

I am amassing quite the collection of The Cat's Pajamas stamps so hopefully I will get to play most of their Tuesday Challenges. This week was a color challenge found on Jen's blog. I don't usually reach for these colors, but I think this card is pretty fun with all the circles, which were done with Nestabilities. I colored the image with Copic Markers and added a touch of Crystal Effects to the glass and flower. I also added a little Star Dust Stickles to her collar. The sentiment is from the new birthday set.

I hope to get lots of stamping done over the next week, so be prepared:) Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

Wishing You a Stress-free Holiday Season

2008-09-04T07:39:00.000-07:00

Hello! It's time for another MFT Sketch Challenge. Remember, you don't have to use MFT stamps to play along. I would love to see what you come up with!

I stamped the image from Merry Christmas? with Black Palette ink and colored it with a combination of watercolor pencils and pearlescent watercolors for a pretty shimmer IRL. I used silver stickles for the tree garland and candy can stickles for the ornaments. This was a great sketch that I can see using again.

I won't be posting again until at least next Tuesday. 4 years ago we got a phone call that no one wants to get. My father-in-law was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. He started treatments and was able to hang on for about 9 months after the diagnosis, he was just 58. Eight months after his death, his son, my 38 year old brother-in-law was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. He went for a colonoscopy because he had promised his father he would, it saved his life. My husband and his family have gotten very involved with the American Cancer Society, turning part of their grief toward a cause that is dedicated to fighting cancer. My mother-in-law is chairperson of her local Relay for Life annual event. This weekend I am helping with the second annual Thomas J. Canale Golf Tournament for Cancer Awareness and Research. I am so proud of them for being dedicated to this cause that touches so many families and for having hope that we can find a cure.

Thanks so much for stamping by. Have a safe weekend!

Laura~

Falling for You

2008-09-01T20:44:00.000-07:00

Hi! These stamps sets are getting me so in the mood for fall. Don't you just love this time of year? For me only early spring is more enchanting.

For the scarecrow card I used the stamp to be released on Wednesday called We're Not Scared. Isn't he adorable! I stamped him with Memento Rich Cocoa ink and colored him with Copic markers. The DP is from Cosmo Cricket.

This set is called Branch Out. The swirly sentiment reminds me of autumn wind, that probably doesn't make a lot of sense. I colored the image with SU! Markers and stamped it on vanilla cs and then used the cracked glass technique. If you are not familiar with that you emboss the entire image with clear embossing powder at least 3 times and then put it in the freezer for a minute or so and then bend it until it cracks.

My Favorite Things (http://www.mftstamps.com/) is having a New Release Cocktail Party on Wednesday, Sept. 3 from 9-11 p.m. Eastern time. This month there are SIX new sets being released, plus one from a new line at MFT: BCDzyns.*The Girl Who Wants It All special for the The September Collection, which is one of each set being released, except for the BCDzyns set, is $58.95.Head over to the MFT forum on http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/ to find out all the details and to find out how YOU can be the next MFT Guest Designer. We hope to see you there on Wednesday night. Say hi if you are in the forums!

Thanks for stamping by!
Laura~

More MFTeasers

2008-09-01T20:33:00.000-07:00

Hi! This is from a new set being released on Wednesday night at MFT called Who's That Ghost. I picked up this little wooden box from Michael's last week thinking it would be cute for something. Here it is put to use as a little Boo Box. It measures 4 1/4 x 5 3/4 x 2". Perfect for a little somethin', somethin'. I painted it black inside and out. I stamped the ghost with black Palette Ink on PTI paper. To get a little bit of a distressed look I pounced a stipple brush with black SU! ink onto the paper and added the tiniest amount of shadowing with a grey pencil. The black strip under the image was done with decorative scissors. This project went together fairly quickly and would be easy to reproduce as a fun little thinking of you gift.

My Favorite Things (http://www.mftstamps.com/) is having a New Release Cocktail Party on Wednesday, Sept. 3 from 9-11 p.m. Eastern time. This month there are SIX new sets being released, plus one from a new line at MFT: BCDzyns.*The Girl Who Wants It All special for the The September Collection, which is one of each set being released, except for the BCDzyns set, is $58.95.Head over to the MFT forum on http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/ to find out all the details and to find out how YOU can be the next MFT Guest Designer. We hope to see you there on Wednesday night.

Thanks for taking a peek!

Laura~

More time to play!

2008-09-01T14:26:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe I am getting in 2 posts in one day, but when I saw Jen's SFYTT, an idea popped into my head and wouldn't go away, and you know how I feel about going with your mojo while you have it. Did you know that The Cat's Pajamas released new stamps on Friday? This adorable cake and sentiment is from a new set called You Say It's Your Birthday! I stamped the image on PTI white cs with black Palette Ink. I colored it in with colored pencils and a blender pen. Your eyes aren't going goofy, I trimmed all the paper with some funky angles because I wanted to mimic the shape of the cake. The ribbon is some OLD stuff from my stash.

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

A MFT New Release Peek

2008-09-01T11:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day! I am having a great time today stamping and catching up with a few things. I am going to BBQ chicken a little later. It's time already for another My Favorite Things release party, whoohoo! We have another new bathtub from Annie LaPoint this month. I really love these sweet tubs. I stamped the image onto MME dp (the reverse of the circle pattern) with Rich Cocoa Memento ink pad and used watercolor pencils and a blender pen for the coloring. I colored a prima flower with SU! Artichoke ink to compliment the design. The embellishment on the red strip of paper is adhesive paper ribbon from K&Co. fun stuff!

Kim is having a little contest to get you all fired up for the release, it's worth a $25 shopping spree! You can't beat that with a broomstick!

I have to admit to being a bad blogging community member. I have recently been given some blogging awards that I haven't acknowledged. I have no excuse because I am always so honored to receive them. This one is from one of my very favorite blogging friends, Sandy! She has been a friend to me since I started blogging and is a very talented stamper on top of it. Thanks Sandy!

I know I am supposed to nominate others for this fun award and this is where I go from bad to worse. The people who I would normally give this award to have already received it. But I know when I first started, I wasn't getting any of these fun blogging badges. If you have a blog that you would like me to visit and post a link to, please leave a comment. I really do like blog hopping, but have serious time issues lately.

Thanks so much for stamping by!

Laura~

I moose you

2008-08-28T07:55:00.000-07:00

Hello! The My Favorite Things Sketch Challenge has been moved to Thursdays. You can play along even if you don't have MFT stamps. Please leave a link here if you make a card, I would love to see it! I used two sets for this card Nature Calls and What's Your Sign. The moose and sign were done with watercolor pencils and the trees were done with Copic markers. The reason for this is very long and somewhat boring so I will spare you the details, but I think it's kind of fun to see how the 2 mediums compare on the same card. While the coloring and cutting took a little bit of time the layout is really simple. Kim has told us we can share a little peek at the new sets being released next Wednesday. I can hardly believe it's time for another release.

So that's it for today, I am getting ready to go to my yoga class, namaste.

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

Store More Stamps with Little Monkeys

2008-08-27T11:33:00.001-07:00

As promised here is a quick review of the the stamp storage system from Little Monkeys. But first things first. I am pretty sure I have mentioned that I was the winner of the Paper Crafts Stamping Royalty Contest, bawhaha! Guess what arrived yesterday, MY TIARA!! It was all I could do to take it off my head to take the picture:) I had heard that there was a tiara involved in this whole deal, but frankly thought I was being teased (a sort of initiation if you will). But no, it is true that if you win the contest you get a tiara. They like me...they really like me:)

On to really more pressing matters. One of the prizes that I won, besides the tiara, was a starter kit from Little Monkeys, that in all honesty sat untouched until last week when I was re-organizing my stamp space. I grabbed the cute box and got to work putting my unmounted stamps onto the 8 x 8 heavy laminated insert sheets. One side is laminated the other is not. Each insert sheet comes in its own plastic sleeve.

I decided to start with my unmounted rubber stamps. As a reference, I lightly attached (in case I should decide I want them on a different sheet) the pictures of the stamps to the paper side of the insert sheet.

With the starter system you also get a sample of cling sheets to mount your stamps on. Overall, this was my most favorite item in the prize pack.
This is the current home for my Little Monkeys storage system. You can see that I have room for at least 2 more boxes and I think that would almost store and organize all of my current clear stamps and unmounted rubber stamps.
In a nutshell, while I haven't tried a ton of other unmounted stamp storage systems, I am going to go with this one because it fits my mode of operation:) Sharing time for me today is over. I would love to hear if you have tried this system and what your thoughts are.

By the way...Susan, from Little Monkeys is looking for a design team. Get all the details here!

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

Friends

2008-08-27T11:24:00.000-07:00

I have had this stamp (SU! A Little Bit of Happiness) for awhile and decided today was the day to use it. I used today's sketch challenge at SCS. I stamped the image on watercolor paper and used ink pads and a blender pen to color. I did stamp and extra dragonfly and cut out just his wings. I added a little bit of Crystal Effects to the wings and bodies of the butterflies. With my sewing machine so handy now, I think you are going to be seeing a lot of stitching on my cards. So I think that it. I am working on another post to share about Little Monkeys. See you in a little bit.

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

Baby Animal Train

2008-08-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

Remember a couple of weeks ago when The Cat's Pajamas was having their big summer sale? One of the stamps I got was this little cutie, Animal Train. Today's Tuesday Challenge for the Cat's Pajamas was to use this stamp, whoohoo! I really appreciate almost being forced to ink a particular stamp, kwim? I also used Jen's SFYTT this week. I just stamped the image on vanilla cs with Brown StazOn and colored with my watercolor pencils and a blender pen. I was also able to use a few buttons from my stash. The paper was from my remnant bin (don't you like that phrasing?) A little distressing and paper piercing and all done (in reality I spent a couple of hours between making this card and a long distance phone call to a super special friend.

Up tomorrow, I am going to share a little product review of a fun product I received from the Paper Crafts Stamping Royalty contest prize pack (you know I have to mention that as often as I can:).

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~

Give Thanks

2008-08-22T12:55:00.000-07:00

Hi! This is for the Limited Supply Challenge...BawHaHa (I guess they didn't get my memo about the absurd amount of stuff I have. I shouldn't ever be allowed to play in that challenge (grinning). Well the challenge was to use a stamp that hasn't seen ink in a long time (never) and to use up some stuff you have been hoarding, how fortuitous (see previous post) and paper remnants. I think I almost hit the limit on the number of embellishments you can put on a card before someone turns you into the card police. I also used Beate's Weekend Sketch Challenge. I stamped the image with brown StazOn on cream cardstock and colored it with Copics. For this I really wish I had used my watercolors. I might try again later, but what you see is what you get for now. I colored some twill with a Really Rust SU! Marker.

So here it is....my brand spankin' new desk. Can I just tell you how much I LOVE it so far. I used it on the card today and it was so convenient. I had the trunks under the desk already so I just moved them underneath. They hold SU! stamps. The cubbies with the boxes are now holding a few clear stamps and Cuttlebug folders and dies. The boxes where a computer key pad would go are holding thread and other sewing machine things. I got the unfinished box with the lid at Michaels. I will finish it at some point:) But for now it's just wonderful! So what do you think?

Thanks so much for stamping by!

Laura~

Birthday Blast!

2008-08-21T11:23:00.000-07:00

Hi! I rarely do boy birthday cards, but the The Cat's Pajamas Tuesday Challenge this week was to use blue and orange and I couldn't get this rocket out of my head and I have been going through my paper stash trying to clean it out and came across this DP from Paper Pizazz called Blue Atoms. I also used Jen's Sketch For You to Try, very loosely interpreted:) I stamped the rocket from It's a Mod, Mod World (TPC) onto watercolor paper and colored it with watercolor pencils and a blender pen. The sentiment is from Studio G. I made the notebook paper with the SU! spiral punch and added the lines with a ruler and markers. I used a Creative Memories grid mat to keep the lines straight. I am also a girl on a mission to organize my embellishments. The orange snaps were found at the bottom of a container that was embarrassingly a complete mess. You will be seeing lots of brads and eyelets and snaps used on my upcoming cards. Why, why, why do I keep purchasing embellishments when I have so much? I added a touch of Crystal Effects to the rocket ship.

So that's it, I am going back to organizing. Much to my husband's dismay, I got a new desk for my studio, which already has a wonderful built-in desk with cabinets and drawers that I have completely overrun with stamping stuff. I NEEDED the new desk for my sewing machine which was living on my fancy dining room table downstairs. So picture this...if I had the urge to sew on a card, I would run downstairs to use the sewing matching and then come back up to my studio to make adjustments and then run down again if it wasn't right. Not the ideal crafting situation...how we suffer for our art...bah haw haw! But the desk has spurred me to want a pristine crafting environment that I am completely sure will last for 2.75 days. Do you have your egg timer set? Wow, I am a kinda chatty today, I think I need some food...

Thanks for stamping by!

Laura~