Merry Christmas!

Yay! We made it to Christmas!!!!

Things have been pretty busy for me with craft sales and classes and open houses and work. But I've finally reached a patch of time when I can sit back and relax a little bit before it starts all over again in January.

Hopefully, this also will allow me some time to regroup -- get my craft room organized and my supplies updated. There wasn't much time for that between the time the room was finished and my first open house in September, so everything was just tossed onto the shelves in my craft room to get it out of the way, and then my schedule really picked up. As a result, I STILL can never find anything. With 11 days off work and nothing on my calendar until January 7, hopefully I can remedy that!

Today I'm sharing with you a swap gift I made for both of my Stampin' Up! demonstrators holiday get togethers earlier this month. Once I came up with a design, this project was really easy to put together. (Click on the image above for a closer view.)

NOEL Wood Blocks

Materials

Ink:
* Chocolate Chip Classic Stampin' Pad
* Whisper White Craft Stampin' Pad

Paper:
* Whisper White card stock
* Real Red card stock
* Garden Green card stock
* Garden Green textured card stock
* Wild Wasabi textured card stock
* Holly Berry Bouquet Designer Series Paper* (DSP)
* Red Glimmer Paper

Accessories:
* Big Shot Die Cutting Machine
* Serif Essentials Alphabet Bigz Die Set
* Stocking Accents Originals Die*
* Spider Web Embossing Folder
* On Board Sheets (chipboard)
* Cork Sheets
* Heat Tool
* Clear Embossing Powder
* 5-Petal Punch***
* Boho Blossoms Punch***
* Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack
* Glimmer Brads
* Stampin' Sponge
* Dazzling Details*
* Real Red 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon**
* Real Red 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon
* Stampin' Dimensionals
* Multipurpose Liquid Glue
* Two-Way Glue Pen

Miscellaneous Items:
* Wood blocks or 2x4s in various sizes
* Green spray paint
* Hot glue gun

* Items shown in italics are in the 2011 Holiday Mini Catalog and are available only until until January 3, 2012

** Real Red 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon is retired, but a length of it is included in the Christmas Keepsake Box currently available in the Stampin' Up! Clearance Rack for $11.97 (preferred customer price).

*** Old style 5-Petal Punch and Boho Blossoms Punch are currently on display in the Stampin' Up! Clearance Rack for $9.59 (preferred customer price).

Instructions:

1. You can use pre-cut, pre-sanded wood blocks, or if you're like me, you save everything! In this case, there were several 2x4s left over from the construction of my new craft room, so when the guys started to haul them away during cleanup, I said, "Wait a minute -- didn't I pay for those?!" My husband has a nice big miter saw, so he set it up on a table for me (it's quite heavy), and I cut the 2x4s into various lengths (these are, from left to right, 5-1/2", 4-3/4", 4-1/4", and 6"). These particular 2x4s were quite smooth around the sides, so I only had to sand the cut edges to smooth them down. Color all of the blocks with dark green spray paint and set them aside to dry.

2. The paper layers for each letter are, from the bottom up, Whisper White (2-5/8" x 3-1/4"), Real Red (2-1/2" x 3-1/8"), DSP (2-1/4" x 2-7/8"). Distress the edges of each piece with Chocolate Chip Classic Pad, and then adhere them together and to the wood blocks with Multipurpose Liquid Glue.

3. Cut the letters from On Board chipboard with the Serif Essentials Alphabet dies. Press each letter directly onto Whisper White Craft Stampin' Pad, and then emboss with clear embossing powder. To achieve a high-gloss effect, you can do one of two things -- either (1) add more embossing powder while the original layer is still hot and liquid and continue to heat with heat tool (repeat this process once so there are three layers of embossing), or (2) if you find that the embossing powder is drying too quickly, after the first layer of embossing you can press the embossed letter directly onto a VersaMark pad and emboss with more clear embossing powder (repeat this process once for a total of three layers of embossing). When letters are cool and dry, adhere to DSP with hot glue.

4. Embellishments:

* N - Cut two holly leaves from Garden Green card stock with the Stocking Accents die. Emboss holly leaves with the Spider Web embossing folder, lining up the centers of the holly leaves with the lines in the spider web to look like veins in the leaves. Distress edges with Stampin' Sponge and Chocolate Chip Classic Pad, and then adhere to block above letter with Multipurpose Liquid Glue. Use the circle punch from the Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack or the berry shape on the Stocking Accents die to cut three berries from Red Glimmer Paper. Use Two-Way Glue Pen to adhere two berries to the holly leaves; adhere third berry with a small piece of Stampin' Dimensionals. Cut two lengths of Taffeta Ribbon. Hold the two pieces together and tie into a bow. Adhere to the block with hot glue.

* O - Cut two trees from Garden Green Textured card stock with the Stocking Accents die, and one from Wild Wasabi Textured card stock. Use a Stampin' Sponge and Chocolate Chip Classic Pad to distress edges of all three trees. Adhere the two Garden Green trees to wood block with Multipurpose Liquid Glue; adhere Wild Wasabi tree with Stampin' Dimensionals. Dot all of the trees randomly with Dazzling Details and set aside to dry.

* E - Punch one 5-Petal Flower from Red Glimmer Paper; punch one from Real Red card stock. Punch large Boho Flower from Red Glimmer Paper. Line up all three pieces as shown and attach a Glimmer Brad in the center. Adhere to block with Stampin' Dimensionals.

* L - Wrap Striped Grosgrain Ribbon around top of block and tie into a big bow. Trim edges.

5. Optional last step -- feet to protect furniture: Cut 12 circles from Cork Sheet (the Cork Sheets are too thick for the punches, so I used the berry shape from the Stocking Accents die) and adhere with hot glue to the bottom of each block, one near each corner.

I hope you enjoyed this project. I had so much fun coming up with the design and the embellishments! (And yes, I plan to make more to sell in my craft sales next season.)

Until next time . . . .

Merry Christmas to all!

Cathy ;D

News About Stampin' Up! Stocking Builder Punch

If you really like the stocking builder punch and you haven't yet ordered it, please see the following notice from Stampin' Up! (The punch is featured in the 2011 Holiday Mini catalog which expires January 3, 2012; however, this punch will continue to be offered until supplies are depleted.) Note: This punch is featured on the card in the lower left-hand corner of my Card-a-Thon photo posted 11/17/2011.
Stocking Builder Punch
December 20, 2011

Our occasion-specific mini catalogs allow us the opportunity to share the latest seasonal products with you, and we often carry over products from our mini catalogs into the following Idea Book & Catalog. This time, however, we have decided not to carry over the Stocking Builder Punch (item 124095) from the 2011 Holiday Mini Catalog into the next Idea Book & Catalog. Instead we will offer other great designs in its place--not to mention a trendy, new design planned for next holiday season.

Once the current inventory of this punch has been depleted, it will no longer be available for purchase. We hope many Stampin' Up! stockings will adorn cards and brighten holiday projects this season and look forward to seeing what you create with the next seasonal design.


Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:14:29

Cathy

2011 Holiday Card-a-Thon

Here's a photo of the 12 cards we made in this year's Holiday Card-a-Thon (click on the photo for a closer look).

We had great fun making these cards and everyone in the group made it through all twelve! Instructions for these cards will not be posted, but you're welcome to contact me at cathy_hansen@q.com for information about any of the cards.

Cath ;D

3-D Christmas Tree Card

This fun tea bag folded tree was the second project at our November classes. It's a quick and easy fold and adds some dimension to your card. (Thanks to my friend Sheryl Luttringer for the idea -- she showed us how to make these little trees at our September Front Range Stampers meeting.)

Materials:

Stamp Set:
* Bells & Boughs (120831-w $19.95; 121142-c $14.95; set of 4)

Paper:
* Cherry Cobbler card stock (119685, 8-1/2” x 11”, 24 sheets, $6.95) - need 8-1/2" x 5-1/2" for card; about 2" x 3" for punch
* Very Vanilla card stock (101650, 8-1/2” x 11”, 40 sheets, $8.50) (5-1/4” x 4”; less than 1/4 sheet for punches)
* Wild Wasabi card stock (108641, 8-1/2” x 11”, 24 sheets, $6.95) (5” x 3-3/4”)
**Holly Berry Bouquet Specialty Designer Series Paper (124004, 12” x 12”, 12 sheets, $12.95) (3 squares in contrast designs: 2” x 2”; 2-1/2” x 2-1/2”, 3” x 3”)
**(Coordinating colors: Chocolate Chip, Real Red, Cherry Cobbler, Wild Wasabi, So Saffron, Very Vanilla)

Ink:
* Chocolate Chip Classic Stampin' Pad (100908, $5.95; refill 101065, $2.95)

Accessories:
* Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439, $99.95)
* Stripes Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (123128, $7.95)
**Mini Jingle Bells (124116, 48 pcs., $2.95)
**Cherry Cobbler 3/8” Quilted Satin Ribbon (124105, 10 yds., $7.95)
* Lace Ribbon Border Punch (122362, $19.95)
* Decorative Label Punch (120907, $16.95)
* Stampin' Sponges (101610, 3 pieces, $3.50)
* SNAIL Adhesive (104332, 472”, $6.95; refill 104331, $4.50)
* Stampin’ Dimensionals 104430, 300 pcs., $3.95)
* Crystal Effects (101055, $6.25)

** 2011 Holiday Mini Catalog (available through January 3, 2012)

Tea Bag Folded Tree Instructions

There is no way I could possibly write out the instructions for the fold for this tree, so instead, I've placed a link here to a You Tube video. The card this lady is making is also very cute!!!!


Instructions:
(SNAIL Adhesive used to assemble unless otherwise noted.)

1. Score 8-1/2" x 5-1/2" Cherry Cobbler card stock at 4-1/4"; fold away from scoreline to create card.

2. Use Lace Ribbon Border Punch and Very Vanilla card stock to make a strip of lace 3-3/4" long. Stamp greeting on Very Vanilla card stock with Chocolate Chip ink; punch out with on Decorative Label punch. Use Stampin' Sponge to sponge Chocolate Chip ink around edges of all Very Vanilla pieces (Lace Ribbon, Decorative Label, and 5-1/4" x 4").

3. Adhere 5-1/4" x 4" Very Vanilla card stock to front of card.

4. Use Big Shot and Stripes embossing folder to emboss stripes on Wild Wasabi card stock. Use Two-Way Glue Pen to adhere Lace Ribbon about 1" from right side of card stock. Wrap Cherry Cobbler Quilted Satin ribbon over Lace Ribbon and adhere on back of card stock. Punch Decorative Label from Cherry Cobbler, cut in half lengthwise, and adhere to back of Very Vanilla Decorative Label so about 1/8" of Cherry Cobbler shows at top and bottom of label. Adhere over ribbon with Stampin' Dimensionals.

5. Follow directions in You Tube video above to fold Designer Series Paper, and adhere to front of card as shown. Use Crystal Effects to adhere Jingle Bell at top of tree.

I hope you enjoy this fun little project! (Yes, it's beginning to look a LOT like Christmas . . . .)

Cathy ;D

Elegant Christmas Stocking Gift Card Holder

This beautiful stocking is the first of three projects that we made in my November classes. I don't know where this design originally came from, but one of my demonstrator friends brought it to our last Front Range Stampers meeting to show us what they had made at a recent Mile High Stampers meeting. Isn't this just gorgeous?! It would make a great gift card holder.

Materials:

Stamp Set:
* Many Merry Messages (116586-w, set of 8, $34.95)

Paper:
* Very Vanilla card stock (101650, 8-1/2” x 11”, 40 sheets, $8.50) - need 1 sheet
* (hm) Silver Glimmer Paper (124005, 12” x 12”, 2 sheets, $4.95) - need about ¼ sheet

Ink:
* VersaMark Pad (102283, $7.50; refill ink $3.95)
* Sahara Sand Classic Pad (105208, $5.95; refill ink 105220, $2.95)

Accessories:
* Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439, $99.95)
* Square Lattice Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (119976, $7.95)
* Northern Flurry Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (120902, $7.95)
* (hm)Holiday Stocking Biz L Die (124098, $32.95)
* Stars #2 Originals Die (113461, $15.95)
* Very Vanilla ½” Seam Binding Ribbon (120999, 10 yds., $6.95)
* Stampin' Sponge (101610, 3 pcs., $3.50)
* Embossing Powder (mixed together:
** Gold (109129, $4.75)
** Silver (109131, $4.75)
** Iridescent Ice (101930, $4.75)
* Heat Tool (100005, $29.95)
* Linen Thread (104199, 15 yds., $4.50)
* Antique Brads (117273, 20 pcs., $5.95)
* Smooch Spritz – Vanilla Shimmer (118772, $4.95)
* Sticky Strip (194284, 10 yds., $6.95)
* Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430, 300 pcs., $3.95)
* Tombow Multipurpose Liquid Glue (110755, $3.95)

Other Stuff:
* About 6" x 6" piece of fine tulle
* Large-eye needle

(hm) = 2011 Holiday Mini Catalog (available through January 3, 2012)

Instructions:

1. Cut or fold Very Vanilla card stock in half at 5-1/2". Use Stocking die and Big Shot to cut 2 sets of the stocking, toe and heel pieces, and cuff.

2. Use Big Shot and Northern Flurry Embossing Folder to emboss both stockings. (Note: these will be glued together back-to-back, so you'll want to make sure you emboss the design on one stocking with the toe pointing to the left, and on the other with the toe pointing to the right).

3. Use Big Shot and Square Lattice Embossing Folder to emboss both cuffs, both toe pieces and both heel pieces. (See note above re embossing on opposite sides.)

4. Use Stampin' Sponge (I like to cut mine into four pieces so they're easier to handle while sponging) and Sahara Sand Classic Pad to distress edges of all cut pieces. Lightly rub sponge across embossed snowflakes on stocking piece to make the design stand out.

5. Use Tombow Glue to adhere toe pieces and heel pieces to both stockings; making sure that cuffs line up the same on front and back piece, adhere cuffs to tops of stockings.

6. Apply Sticky Strip to wrong side of one stocking near edges, but don't remove backing yet. (IMPORTANT NOTE: Do NOT apply sticky strip across top of stocking.)

7. Cut about 10" of ribbon and tie the two ends together to create a hanging loop. Make a loose bow out of another piece of ribbon, making tails as long as you like.

8. Punch hole about 3/4" from top left corner of cuff on front piece of stocking; use Paper Snips or Paper Piercing Tool to make hole through center of knot in bow. Insert brad through center of knot and through stocking; open prongs on the back side of the stocking piece. Place hanging loop on back of stocking piece with knot under the brad and slide sides of loop under prongs so hanging loop extends above cuff.

9. Remove backing from Sticky Strip, carefully line up front and back pieces of stocking, wrong sides facing each other, and adhere together, making sure hanging loop extends out of the top of the stocking between the two pieces.

10. Using Big Shot and Stars die, cut the three smaller stars from Silver Glimmer Paper. Use Paper Piercing Tool or 1/16" Circle punch to punch two holes in each star (like button holes).

11. Use VersaMark Ink to stamp "Noel" on Very Vanilla card stock. Apply the Gold, Silver and Iridescent Ice mixture of embossing powder (listed above), and heat with Heat Tool. Punch out image with Small Tag punch. Punch a Large Tag from Silver Glimmer Paper and adhere behind small tag. Punch a hole near top of tag with Paper Piercing Tool or 1/16" Circle punch.

12. Thread needle with about 12" of Linen Thread and tie a large knot at one end. Thread through first hole in smallest star shape from back to front, and then front to back; leaving about 1/8" to 1/4" between shapes, thread needle through the two holes in the medium-sized star, and through large star. Finally, thread needle from front to back through tag. Wrap remaining length of ribbon between the brad and the bow two or three times, then apply a small dot of Tombow Glue to unwrapped thread, and continue to wrap one more time to secure. Cut off loose end near brad.

13. You can leave the tag and stars hanging; however, I didn't want to take the chance they would catch on something and pull off, so I used Stampin' Dimensionals to secure the large star to the tag, and the smallest star to the stocking.

14. Tuck tulle into top of stocking.

15. Spritz entire stocking with Smooch Spritz.

You can hang this in a doorway, or you can tuck money, a gift card, or other small gift inside the stocking for a special friend.

Cath ;D

Glitter Puzzle Card

This was another project from the November 12 classes, and the technique of the month -- Glitter Puzzle. This is a great way to add some glitz to your card without having glitter all over the inside of the envelope and all over the recipient's hands . . . and table . . . and floor. Of course, I'm not saying you won't have glitter all over you when you're finished making this card . . . .

Materials:

Stamp Sets:
* Zoo Review (122197-w $22.95; 122199-c $16.95; set of 5)
* Merry & Type (122550-w $25.95; 122552-c $18.95; set of 6)

Paper:
* Basic Black card stock (121045, 8-1/2” x 11”, 24 sheets, $6.95) (8-1/2” x 5-1/2”; about ¼ sheet for punches and dies)
* Tempting Turquoise card stock (102067, 8-1/2” x 11”, 24 sheets, $6.95) (5-1/4” x 4”)
* Whisper White card stock (100730, 8-1/2” x 11”, 40 sheets, $8.50) (5-1/8” x 3-7/8”; 3-1/2” x 3-1/2” for glitter background; about 1” x 2” for die)

Ink:
* Basic Black Classic Stampin’ Pad (101179, $5.95)
* Jet Black Stazon Ink Pad (101406, $7.95; refill ink $3.95)

Accessories:
* Window Sheets (114323, 12” x 12”, 2 sheets, $4.95)
* Sticky Sheets (114300, 12” x 12”, 2 sheets, $6.95)
* Dazzling Diamonds Stampin’ Glitter ($4.50)
* Fine Galaxy Stampin’ Glitter (Black, Silver, Red, Gold, Champagne; $13.95)
* Fine Supernova Stampin’ Glitter (Chocolate, Olive, Orange, Pink, Aqua; $13.95)
* ½” Scallop Dots Ribbon, Black (124145, 10 yds., $7.95)
* Silver Mini Brads (122941, 200 pcs., $5.50)
* Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch (119275, $15.95)
* ½” Circle Punch (119869, $5.95)
* Scallop Oval Punch (119856, $16.95)
* Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439, $99.95)
* Lots of Tags Sizzlits Die Set (114508, 4 dies – 5 tags, $21.95)
* SNAIL Adhesive (104332, 472”, $6.95; refill 104331, $4.50)
* Stampin’ Dimensionals 104430, 300 pcs., $3.95)

Instructions:
(SNAIL Adhesive used to assemble card unless otherwise noted)

1. Cut 3" x 3" piece of Window Sheet. Stamp penguin image in center with Jet Black StazOn ink. Set aside to dry.

2. Score 8-1/2" x 5-1/2" Basic Black card stock at 4-1/4"; fold away from scoreline to create card. Adhere Tempting Turquoise to front of card. Set aside.

3. Cut 3-1/2" x 3-1/2" piece of Sticky Sheet; remove RED backing sheet, leaving sticky surface on off-white portion of Sticky Sheet. Adhere to 3-1/2" x 3-1/2" piece of Whisper White card stock.

4. Cut 3" x 3" square from scrap card stock or chip board for template. Place template in center of off-white backing side of 3-1/2" x 3-1/2" piece assembled in Step 3, and trace around with a Sharpie pen. Punch a 1-3/8" Circle from scrap card stock; place in center of square and trace around with a Sharpie pen. Use Sharpie pen to draw two wavy lines across square, about 1" to 1-1/4" from bottom of square; draw another wavy line about 1" to 1-1/4" from top of square.

5. Use Xacto knife to cut along outside square through backing sheet -- do not cut through card stock. Second, use Xacto knife to cut along the line for the circle. Third, cut along the wavy lines only from outer edge of circle to square, making sure all of the cuts meet the circle and square cuts (this helps to cleanly pull backing off for next step).

6. To Make Glitter Piece:

a. Leaving all other pieces in place, remove Sticky Sheet backing from section inside square below circle. Sprinkle Black Glitter onto sticky section, press with your fingers a little bit to make sure glitter adheres to sticky stuff; tap off excess glitter.

b. Next, remove backing from two middle sections between circle and square. Cover with Aqua Glitter, press to adhere, and tap off excess.

c. Next, remove backing from section above inside square and above circle. Cover with Silver Glitter, press to adhere, and tap off excess.

d. Finally, remove backing from circle. Cover with Dazzling Diamonds, press to adhere, and tap off excess.

7. Cut a 2-5/8" square from top center of 5-1/8" x 3-7/8" Whisper White card stock (I used the Fiskars paper cutter to cut along a line 5/8" from edge of paper beginning at the 5/8" mark on the cutting guide and going down to the 3-1/4" mark; repeat for top and opposite side, then cut the fourth (bottom) edge across from one side to the other at 3-1/4".) Remove backing from outside square surrounding the glitter area, place your penguin stamped on the Window Sheet (remember him?!) over the glitter area, and carefully place Whisper White card stock over the piece, centering the penguin and glitter area in the window.

8. Use the Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border punch to cut 4 "ribbon" pieces from Basic Black card stock, each 2-5/8" long. Adhere one piece along the edge on each side of the window, slightly overlapping the edge so you see no white between the "ribbon" and the glitter image. Punch 4 1/2" circles and place in each of the corners to cover up the "cutouts" in each corner. Attach to the card stock with a silver brad in the center of each circle.

9. Wrap Scallop Polka Dot ribbon from front to back around Whisper White card stock about halfway between glitter section and bottom of card stock. Adhere ribbon on back of card stock; adhere Whisper White card stock to front of card, over Tempting Turquoise.

10. Use Big Shot and Lots of Tags Sizzlits die to cut 1 Whisper White and 1 Basic Black tag (see picture to determine which tag shape to use). Use Jet Black StazOn to stamp greeting in center of Whisper White tag. Punch Scallop Oval from Basic Black and adhere to back of Whisper White tag. Cut Basic Black tag in half top to bottom, and adhere to back of Whisper White tag, behind Scallop Oval, positioning so that about 1/8" shows on front on each side. Adhere to front of card over ribbon with Stampin' Dimensionals.

WHEW!!!!! That was a hard description to write -- so many steps. Easier to show you. (Maybe some day I'll start doing videos . . . .) In the meantime, you're welcome to contact me with any questions.

Have fun with this one!

Cathy ;D

Instructions for final October class project

This is the last design we made in our October classes. It's based on a wonderful card I received from Heather Sewszak in one of my recent card swaps. It would make a great Thanksgiving card or a birthday card with a more masculine look.

Materials:

Stamp Set:
* Leaves of a Tree (123843-w, set of 1, $9.95)
* Grateful Greetings (116511-w, set of 12, $36.95)

Paper:
* Cajun Craze card stock (119684, 24 sheets, $6.95) (8-1/2" x 5-1/2")
* Not Quite Navy card stock (101722, 24 sheets, $6.95) (3-1/4" x 3-1/4"; scraps for punches)
* Very Vanilla card stock (101650, 40 sheets, $8.50) (scrap for punches)
* Well Worn designer series paper (122359, 12 sheets, $10.95) (3" x 3"; 3" x 2" - two pieces)

Ink:
* Early Espresso Classic Stampin’ Pad 119670 $5.95; refill 119789 $2.95)
* Cajun Craze Stampin’ Write Marker (119678 $3.50)
* Early Espresso Stampin’ Write Marker (119680 $3.50)
* River Rock Stampin’ Write Marker (120972 $3.50)
* Soft Suede Stampin’ Write Marker (120973 $3.50)

Accessories:
* 3/8” Taffeta Ribbon – Not Quite Navy (122978 $6.95)
* Round Tab Punch (119864 $16.95)
* 2-1/2” Circle Punch (120906 $16.95)
* SNAIL Adhesive (104332, $6.95; refills 104331, $4.50)
* Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430, $3.95)

Instructions:

1. Score 8-1/2" x 5-1/2" card stock at 4-1/4"; fold away from scoreline to create care.

2. Adhere two 3" x 2" pieces of Designer Series Paper (DSP) to front of card -- one near upper left-half corner; one near lower right-hand corner.

3. Adhere 3" x 3" DSP to 3-1/4" x 3-1/4" cardstock. Wrap ribbon around both pieces about 1/2" - 3/4" from bottom and tie in a knot in the front near the left side.

4. Use Early Espresso to stamp sentiment on Very Vanilla card stock; punch out with punch of your choice. (I must apologize at this point -- I inadvertently used a retired Stampin' Up! punch to punch out this piece for this sample -- but there are lots of other punches which will also fit well into this design -- for instance, one of the oval punches.) Set aside.

5. Use side of brush end of Early Espresso Stampin' Write Marker to paint branches of tree directly onto rubber stamp; use side of brush end of remaining colors to tap color randomly onto the leaves. "Huff" on rubber stamp to add moisture to colors, and stamp image on Very Vanilla card stock. Without reinking, stamp image a second time on piece made in Step 4 above. Set aside.

6. Use 2-1/2" Circle punch to cut out tree image. Punch a second 2-1/2" Circle from Not Quite Navy card stock. Cut circle in half and adhere it to the back of Very Vanilla circle so about 1/4" hangs over the edge of the Very Vanilla on each side. Use Stampin' Dimensionals to adhere to front of card over ribbon.

7. Punch Round Tab from Not Quite Navy. Adhere Very Vanilla piece made in Steps 4 and 5 above to Tab. Adhere to front of card with Stampin' Dimensionals.

That's it. The card's finished. And isn't it beautiful?!

I hope you enjoyed this card as much as I did. There are so many talented stampers in my swap groups and I appreciate that they're so willing to share their wonderful ideas with me so I can share them with you!

Take care! Keep on Stampin!

Cath ;D

Finally -- Instructions for another October class card

If you haven't used the Simply Scored scoring tool from Stampin' Up! to make a "lolly," now's your chance. These cute pumpkin and spider lollies were made by scoring a 12" x 1-3/8" strip of Designer Series Paper every 1/4", then folding accordian-style and squeezing it all together into a flat circle. Very fun and easy once you've made one or two . . . . (We made these in our October classes.)


I realize it's kind of late to make these cards for Halloween . . . but you could do the same thing with some cute Christmas paper and some of the wonderful Christmas stamps Stampin' Up! is featuring in current catalogs.

Materials:

Stamp Sets:
* Batty for You (116576-w, $23.95; set of 8)
* Scaredy Cat (122555-w $19.95; 122557-c $14.95; set of 5)
* Grateful Greetings (inside) (116511-w $36.95; set of 12)

Paper:
* Spider Lolly Card: Basic Black card stock (121045, 24 sheets, $6.95) (8-1/2" x 5-1/2"); Old Olive card stock (100702, 24 sheets, $6.95) (5-1/4" x 4")
* Pumpkin Lolly Card: Cajun Craze card stock (119684, 24 sheets, $6.95) (8-1/2" x 5-1/2"); Basic Black card stock (100702, 24 sheets, 6.95) (5-1/4" x 4")
For both cards:
* Basic Black card stock (121045, 24 sheets, $6.95) (about 4" x 5" for dies & punches)
* Whisper White card stock (100730, 40 sheets, $8.50) (about 2" x 2" for punch)
* Frightful Sight Designer Series Paper (122351, 12 sheets, $10.95) (5" x 3-3/4"; 1-3/8" x 12") (Coordinating colors: Whisper White, Cherry Cobbler, Cajun Craze, Basic Gray, Old Olive, Basic Black)

Ink:
* Basic Black Classic Stampin’ Pad (101179 $5.95; refill 102512 $2.95)
* Basic Black Craft Stampin’ (102192 $7.50; refill 102995 $4.25)

Accessories:
* Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439 $99.95)
* Scallop Circle #2 Bigz Die (113459 $19.95)
* 1-3/4” Scallop Circle Punch (119854 $16.95)
* 1-3/8” Circle Large Punch (119860 $15.95)
* 1” Circle Punch (119868 $10.95)
* 1-1/4” Striped Grosgrain Ribbon (Basic Black) (115615 $9.95)
* SNAIL Adhesive (104332, $6.95; refills 104331, $4.50)
* Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430, $3.95)
* Two-Way Glue Pen (100425 $3.50)

Instructions:

1. Score 8-1/2" x 5-1/2" cardstock at 4-1/4" and fold away from scoreline to create card. Adhere 5-1/4" x 4" cardstock to card front.

2. Adhere ribbon to front of Designer Series Paper (DSP), wrap ends around to back of DSP and adhere. Adhere DSP to card front.

3. To begin making your lolly, score 1-3/8" x 12" DSP at 1/2" and every 1/2" across to end. Turn paper over so the scorelines you just made are facing down, and beginning at 1/4", score every 1/2" to end (basically, you're scoring half-way between each of the scorelines you've already made). Fold the DSP back and forth, accordian-style, away from the scorelines and glue one end over the other to create a tube (I used a Two-Way Glue Pen for this). Once you have this tube, you're ready to assemble your lolly.

4. You will need a top and bottom to hold the lolly together. For this card, I cut the largest circle on the Scallop Circle #2 Die from Basic Black card stock; you can either cut a smaller Basic Black scallop circle with the same die, or use the 1-3/4" Scallop Circle punch. Spread Tombow Glue on the larger of the two scallop circles, being careful to not get glue on the scallop edges. Holding together the top of your DSP tube and spreading out the bottom edges, place your DSP tube and flatten it over the glue. Once it flattens out, you'll want to push the ends toward the center of the circle so the hole in the center is as small as possible. Hold it in place for a few seconds until the glue starts to set up. Place Tombow Glue on the smaller Basic Black scallop circle and place it over the center of the lolly. Place something on top of the smaller circle to hold everything in place until the glue dries.

5. For this card, I stamped one of the images from the Batty for You set on Whisper White paper and punched it out with a 1-3/4" Circle punch. Then I stamped either the same or a coordinating image on the coordinating color card stock and punched it out with a 1-3/8" Circle punch. Adhere the smaller circle to the center of the larger circle so the words appear around the outer edge of the larger circle, and then adhere it to the center of the scallop circle on top of the lolly.

6. Adhere lolly to front of card with Stampin' Dimensionals.

That's it! If this is all very confusing to you . . . and it's likely to be -- it took me awhile to figure out how to make these cute little things . . . there are several locations online where you can view a tutorial. Here's a link to one of them: http://www.youtube.com/social/blog/dostamping-typepad-dostamping_with_dawn. (Click on the Paper Rosettes Stampin' Up! Simply Sent
video.)

Dawn actually does hers a little differently . . . she uses Sticky Paper instead of Tombow Glue, which may be a little more expensive, but eliminates the need for having to wait for the glue to dry. She also builds hers upside down. Now that I've viewed her video, I think her technique is probably a little easier than mine. (See?! We learn something new every day!!!!) The cards she shares are her video are also very cute!!!!

I hope you enjoy these lollies (or paper rosettes, or paper medallions . . . whatever you choose to call them)!

Cathy ;D

October Workshop Technique -- Shimmers Direct

The technique of the month for October is Shimmers Direct (courtest of Pat Huntoon, Technique Junkies). Options for the October classes were a technique page or a greeting card. Here are the ingredients and instructions.

(Samples showing colors run together)



Materials:

Stamp Sets:
* Gently Falling (123802-w $39.95; 123804-c-$28.95; set of 12)**
* Sincere Salutations (115068-w $25.95; set of 8) (for greeting card)

Paper:
* Old Olive card stock (6" x 6" for page; 8-1/2” x 5-1/2" for card)
* Chocolate Chip card stock (5-1/2" x 5-1/2" for page; 5-1/4" x 4" for card)
* More Mustard card stock (5" x 2-1/2" for both page and card)
* Cajun Craze card stock (4-3/4" x 3" for page; 3" x 2" for card)

Ink:
* Chocolate Chip Classic Stampin’ Pad
* Whisper White Craft Stampin’ Pad (card only)
* More Mustard Classic Refill Ink
* Cajun Craze Classic Refill Ink
* Old Olive Classic Refill Ink
* Shimmer Paint, Platinum

Stampin’ Up! Accessories:
* Big Shot Die Cutting Machine
* Stripes Textured Impressions Embossing Folder
* Chocolate Chip ½” Scallop Dots Ribbon (card)
* White Embossing Powder and Heat Tool
* Brayer
* Paper Snips
* SNAIL Adhesive
* Stampin’ Dimensionals

Miscellaneous:
* Waxed Paper or Non-stick Craft Sheet

** 2011 Holiday Mini Catalog

Instructions:

Shimmers Technique:

1. Cover work surface with waxed paper or non-stick craft sheet. Place three drops of Shimmer Paint onto surface, spaced in a straight line about 1" to 1-1/2" apart from each other. Place one drop of More Mustard on top of first drop of Shimmer Pain; Old Olive on top of second drop; and Cajun Craze on top of third drop.

2. Roll Brayer over paint/ink drops, being careful to keep the colors separated (if they get mushed together, you will end up with a nice coppery color, but if you are successful at keeping them just touching, but not overlapping each other, you will get a nice, variegated effect (see samples).

3. Roll Brayer directly onto the stamp covering the solid maple leave image, and stamp on Whisper White card stock.

4. Optional: After paint/ink dries, use Chocolate Chip Classic Stampin' Pad to stamp outline maple leaf image over solid image.

* Note: You can get several images from these three drops -- just keep rolling the brayer over the paint/ink, being careful not to mix the colors, and make sure to roll the brayer over the stamp in the same direction as the original. At some point, the colors will start to blend together, but you'll get several good images before that happens. To clean brayer, simply run under a water faucet and set on a paper towel to dry.

Technique Page:
(Unless otherwise noted, SNAIL Adhesive is used for all assembly)

1. Adhere 5-1/2" x 5-1/2" Chocolate Chip card stock to 6" x 6" Old Olive card stock.

2. Use embossing folder to texture the More Mustard and Cajun Craze card stock pieces. Adhere to Chocolate Chip card stock as shown.

(Alternate Step 2: Stamp several leaves and seed pods randomly on More Mustard and Cajun Craze card stock instead of embossing.)

3. Adhere instructions sheet to upper right section of page.

4. Cut out leaf shape and use Stampin' Dimensionals to adhere it to lower left section of page.

Greeting Card:
(Unless otherwise noted, SNAIL Adhesive is used for all assembly)

1. Score 8-1/2" x 5-1/2" card stock at 4-1/4"; fold away from score line to create card.

2. Use Whisper White Craft Stampin' Pad to stamp greeting in lower right corner of 5-1/4" x 4" Chocolate Chip card stock; emboss with White Embossing Powder. Adhere to front of card.

3. Use embossing folder to texture the More Mustard and Cajun Craze card stock pieces. Adhere More Mustard card stock to Chocolate Chip card stock as shown.
4. Tie knot in ribbon, wrap from front to back of Cajun Craze card stock, and adhere on the back. Adhere to front of card over More Mustard card stock.

5. Cut out leaf image and adhere to front of card with Stampin' Dimensionals, tucking stem under ribbon.


Fun stuff, huh?! And the most fun part is seeing the different designs you can come up with using this technique! Just like in nature, each leaf will be slightly different from the others.

Cath ;D

Thanks for a GREAT Stampin' Up! Anniversary Celebration!!!

A big THANK YOU to all who came to my Stampin' Up! 6th Anniversary Celebration and new workshop open house! It was great fun!

Everyone made this sweet little owl treat bag at the open house. (Thanks to Stampin' Up! Demonstrator Marian Foerster for the idea of using the Top Notes die for the head.)


We'll also be making this cute little guy at my table at Stampastic Stampers Stamp Camp on September 24.

Materials:

Paper:
* Patterns Designer Series Paper ("DSP") Stack (Neutrals -- any brown tone; about 4" x 5")
* Coordinating brown-tone card stock (enough for scallop oval and a corner of the scalloped petite pennant)
* Glossy White card stock (enough for two 1" circles)
* Crumb Cake card stock (enough for two 3/4" circles and one-half scallop oval)
* Basic Black card stock (enough for two 1/2" circles)
* More Mustard card stock (enough for 3/4" square)

Ink:
* Stampin' Write Marker to coordinate with DSP

Accessories:
* Big Shot Die Cutting Machine
* Top Notes Die
* Punches: Scallop Oval, Petite Pennants, 1" Circle, 3/4" Circle, 1/2" Circle, 3/4" Square
* White Gel Pen
* 3" x 5" Cellophane Bag
* Adhesives: Two-way Glue Pen, Mini Glue Dots, Stampin' Dimensionals

Other:
* Ghirardelli Chocolate Square

Instructions:

1. Cut Top Notes shape from DSP, fold across at center to create owl's head.

2. From coordinating card stock punch one Scallop Oval and one corner of the scalloped Petite Pennant creating a smaller triangle with one flat edge and two scalloped edges. Cut across the Scallop Oval on each side of center scallop to create eyelids. Use brush end of Stampin' Write Marker to shade edges of each piece.

3. Punch one Scallop Oval from Crumb Cake card stock; cut in half lengthwise.

4. Punch two 1" circles from Glossy White card stock; punch two 3/4" circles from Crumb Cake card stock; punch two 1/2" circles from Basic Black card stock. Use White Gel Pen to draw crescent highlights in each of the two black circles.

5. Use Two-way Glue Pen to adhere triangle at the top of folded DSP Top Notes shape, flat edge lined up along fold; fold More Mustard square in half diagonally to create beak and adhere to bottom center of Top Notes die; adhere 1/2 Crumb Cake Scallop Oval shape behind DSP at bottom (behind beak); adhere Glossy White circles to Top Notes die shape as shown; adhere Crumb Cake circles in centers of Glossy White circles; adhere Basic Black circles in centers of Crumb Cake Circles. Use Stampin' Dimensionals to adhere eyelids over the circles.

6. Place chocolate square in Cellophane Bag and place top of bag against inside fold of Top Notes die. Adhere owl's head to bag with one Mini Glue Dot in the front and one in the back. (The one tiny glue dot allows people to open the bag without ripping the owl apart . . . because as everyone knows, when you give a hand made gift, the recipient will want to keep it FOREVER!!!!!)

My stepdaughter had a great idea -- she said how about using this same technique to make a vampire bat or dracula treat bag?! And guess what?! Ghirardelli makes something called Twilight Delight (Intense Dark Chocolate) that comes in a black wrapper! So guess what I'll be trying next?!

Hope you also have fun with this!

Cathy Hansen
Independent Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator
303-657-9737
cathy_hansen@q.com
http://cathyscraftroom.blogspot.com
http://cathyhansen.stampinup.net

Sunflower Card -- Two Versions

This was the card I made for Kristin Sutton's 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog Swap. I love love love this huge sunflower! And it was fun to mask it to add the polka dot background.

Materials:

Stamp Sets:
* Sunflower background
* Distressed Dots background
* Pursuit of Happiness

Paper:
* Crumb Cake card stock (8-1/2" x 5-1/2"; scrap for embossed oval frame)
* Chocolate Chip card stock (5" x 3-3/4")
* Naturals Ivory card stock (4-3/4" x 3-1/2")
* Very Vanilla card stock (scrap for oval punch)

Ink:
* Crumb Cake Classic Stampin’ Pad
* Chocolate Chip Classic Stampin' Pad

Accessories:
* Big Shot Die Cutting Machine
* Ovals originals die
* Designer Frames textured impressions embossing folder
* Extra-large Oval punch
* Crumb Cake seam binding ribbon

Adhesives:
* SNAIL Adhesive
* Stampin’ Dimensionals

Instructions:
(Note: I used SNAIL Adhesive to assemble this card except where noted otherwise.)

1. Score 8-1/2" x 11" cardstock at 4-1/4"; fold at scoreline to create card.

2. Stamp sunflower image on 4-3/4" x 3-1/2" Naturals Ivory card stock; stamp another image on scrap paper and cut it out to create a mask. Place mask (do not adhere) over stamped sunflower. Stamp distressed dots over masked sunflower to cover entire piece of card stock; remove mask. Stamp distressed dots on card front.

3. Wrap ribbon around Naturals Ivory card stock near bottom and tie in a bow to the left. Adhere card stock to Chocolate Chip card stock. Use Stampin' Dimensionals to adhere Chocolate Chip card stock to front of card.

4. Use Big Shot and middle-sized oval to cut shape from Crumb Cake card stock. Place oval inside oval frame embossing folder and roll through Big Shot. Stamp sentiment on Very Vanilla card stock with Chocolate Chip ink and punch out with Extra Large Oval punch. Adhere to center of oval frame. Adhere to front of card over ribbon with Mini Glue Dots.

That's it -- the card is finished (unless you want to do the optional inside -- see below).

This is the same card design with a slightly different look. This is the version we did at Sylvia Meyer's Stampastic Stamp Camp. For this one, I followed the same instructions, but instead substituted the following:

More Mustard card stock instead of Crumb Cake
Early Espresso card stock instead of Chocolate Chip
Very Vanilla card stock instead of Naturals Ivory
Early Expresso Classic Stampin' Ink and Bravo Burgundy Classic Stampin' Ink
Cherry Cobbler ribbon instead of Crumb Cake

For this card I stamped the sunflower and the sentiment with Early Espresso, and I stamped the distressed dots with Bravo Burgundy (I didn't want the deep burgundy color, so to get a more subtle color, I stamped it off once first -- stamped the image on scrap paper, and then without reinking, stamped it on the card stock).

I used SNAIL Adhesive to adhere the Early Espresso card stock to the front of the card instead of Stampin' Dimensionals like I did on the other card, and then used Stampin' Dimensionals to adhere the oval to the front. Instead of wrapping the ribbon around the card, I just made a small bow and attached it to the front of the card with a Mini Glue Dot.

Here are the envelope and the inside of the card: I stamped the sunflower in the lower right-hand corner of both with Early Espresso, stamping off once to make it a lighter version of the one on the front of the card. I stamped the sentiment on the inside without stamping off.

Hope you enjoy this one! I like both versions, but I think I like the second one a little better -- the sunflower is a much more crisp image when stamped on the smoother Very Vanilla card stock, and I like the contrast of the vivid fall colors better than the more subtle monochromatic look of the first version.

Until next time . . . keep on stampin'!!!!

Cath ;D

Holiday Mini Swap Card

Halloween for me marks the beginning of the holiday season -- my favorite time of the year! So I decided to begin a little early and do a Halloween card for my 2011 Holiday Mini Swap.

My stamp set for this swap was Fun & Festive. But I couldn't resist adding a few images from Out on the Limb too . . . . The Designer Series Paper is also from the Holiday Mini -- Pick Your Poison.

Oh, by the way . . . here's the inside:



Materials:

Stamp Sets:
* Fun & Festive**
* Out on a Limb**
* Halloween Hang-Ups Jumbo Wheel** (inside)

Paper:
* Card stock: Basic Black (8-1/2" x 5-1/2"), Peach Parfait (5-1/4" x 4"), Very Vanilla (5-1/4" x 4" for inside; about 3" x 3" for moon; scraps for witch & cat), Naturals Ivory (4-1/4" x 1-1/4")
* Designer Series Paper ("DSP"): Pick Your Poison** (I think the black & orange piece is 4-9/16" x 1-7/8", but I'm going to measure it again this evening; the stripe piece at the bottom of the card is 5-1/4" x 1-3/4"; the striped piece inside the card is 5-1/4" x 3/8")

Ink:
* Basic Black Craft Stampin’ Pad
* Basic Gray Classic Stampin’ Pad (inside)
* Stampin’ Write Markers: Basic Gray, Blush Blossom, Certainly Celery, Peach Parfait, Sahara Sand, So Saffron, Wisteria Wonder

Accessories:
* Big Shot Die Cutting Machine
* Perfect Polka Dots textured impressions embossing folder
* 3” Circle Die
* Scallop Trim Border and Corner Punches
* 3/16” Corner Punch
* Clear Embossing Powder and Heat Tool

Adhesives:
* SNAIL Adhesive
* Stampin’ Dimensionals
* Sticky Strip
* Two-Way Glue Pen

** 2011 Holiday Mini Catalog

Instructions:
(Unless otherwise noted, SNAIL Adhesive was used to assemble card.)

1. Score Basic Black card stock at 4-1/4"; fold away from scoreline to create card.

2. Use 3/16" Corner Rounder Punch to trim all four corners of Peach Parfait card stock; emboss top 2-1/4" of card with Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder and Big Shot. Adhere to front of card.

3. Use Big Shot and 3" Circle Die to create moon from Very Vanilla; trim to fit into upper left-hand corner of card. Before adhering this piece to card, stamp Tree Limb and Bats images on moon with Basic Black Craft Ink and emboss with Clear Embossing Powder. Adhere moon to card with Sticky Strip (this sticks to the raised polka dots better than SNAIL Adhesive).

4. Adhere striped DSP to bottom 1-3/4" of card.

5. Use Scallop Trim Corner and Border punches to trim edges of black & orange DSP. Set aside.

6. Stamp Happy Halloween image on Naturals Ivory card stock with Basic Black Craft Ink; emboss with Clear Embossing Powder. Color in the letters with Stampin' Write Markers, trim corners with 3/16" Corner Rounder Punch, and adhere to black & orange DSP piece created in Step No. 5 above. Adhere Stampin' Dimensionals to back of DSP and adhere to front of card as shown.

7. Stamp Witch and Cat images on Very Vanilla card stock with Basic Black Craft Ink, and emboss with Clear Embossing Powder. Color Witch image. Cut out both images and adhere to the front of card as shown. I used a Stampin' Dimensional behind each head, and adhered the bottom portions to the DSP with a Two-Way Glue Pen.

Inside:

8. Trim corners of Very Vanilla card stock with 3/16" Corner Rounder Punch.

9. Use Basic Gray Classic Stampin' Pad to ink up Stampin' Around Wheel. Place a piece of scrap paper across top part of card stock and roll design across bottom of card stock. (The vertical dotted lines on this design are longer than what appear on the card; the scrap paper masks the top of the design, so only the part you want to appear actually rolls onto the card stock.)

10. Adhere narrow strip of striped DSP across top of image.

That's it! Time to send out scary cute Halloween greetings!!!!

Cath ;D

The Fans Are In!!!!

And they work!

They look just like they did online and in the store. B-E-A-U-TIFUL!

The latest on the crafts room is that it's almost finished! I think the floor will be installed tomorrow, and by the end of the week I should be shopping Ikea for shelves! How exciting is that?!

I'm really looking forward to my open house on September 10 . . . and I hope you are too. This will be the unveiling of our new digs. I also should have dates for upcoming classes by then. Probably will have just the one big event in September and then settle down to a regular monthly class schedule beginning in October.

You've all been so patiently awaiting the big event! I hope you'll continue to hang in there with me for just a few more weeks.

Cath ;D

Elebration Card (revised 08/16/2011)

I LOVE this little elephant! He was the first stamp I bought out of the new 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog!!! And I've used this same card for several recent stampin' events -- first at the Stampastic Stampers Stamp Camp in Westminster on July 23, and then the Sassy Chic Stamp Camp in Longmont on August 6. And finally, I've just completed 80 card fronts with this design for a wonderful card swap sponsored by Cricket Thompson featuring new stamps from the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog. Can't wait to see what everyone else made . . . .

Materials:

Stamp Sets:
* Elebration
* Bring on the Cake

Paper:
* Baja Breeze card stock (8-1/2” x 5-1/2”)
* Whisper White card stock (3-3/4” x 3-3/4”)
* Pool Party card stock (3-1/2” x 3-1/2”)
* Basic Gray card stock (3-1/4” x 3-1/4”)
* Pocketful of Posies DSP (3” x 3”)

Classic Ink:
* Basic Black stampin’ pad
* Baja Breeze*
* Basic Gray*
* stampin’ pad or refill ink

Accessories:
* Blender Pen
* Basic Black Stampin' Write Marker
* Big Shot Die Cutting Machine
* Circles #2 Original Die
* Punches: 2-1/2” Circle, 2-3/8” Scallop Circle, Decorative Label, Scallop Oval
* 5/8” Organza Ribbon (4”)

Tools & Adhesives:
* Paper Snips
* 2-Way Glue Pen
* SNAIL Adhesive
* Stampin’ Dimensionals

Instructions:
Note: Unless otherwise noted, SNAIL Adhesive was used to assemble card.

1. Score Baja Breeze card stock at 4-1/4"; fold at scoreline to create card.

2. Adhere 3-3/4" x 3-3/4" Whisper White card stock to front of card; adhere 3-1/2" x 3-1/2" Pool Party card stock over Whisper White.

3. Adhere 3" x 3" Designer Series Paper ("DSP") to 3-1/4" x 3-1/4" Basic Gray card stock. Punch scallop circle in center through both pieces. Adhere to Pool Party card stock on front of card. (NOTE: Since the DSP is much thinner than card stock, this will work -- I would NOT advise trying to punch through two thicknesses of card stock; the punch may get stuck.)

4. Use Big Shot and Circles #2 Die to cut the next to largest of the four circles from a piece of Whisper White card stock. Center circle in 2-1/2" Circle punch and punch again to create white ring. Use 2-Way Glue Pen to adhere to front of card over DSP, covering edges of scallop curout.

5. Stamp Elebration image on Whisper White card stock with Basic Blank ink. Use Blender Pen and Baja Breeze ink to color balloon, cake, and candle; use Basic Gray to color elephant. (Note: Basic Gray is a very dark, intense color, so you'll want to test it on scratch paper to make sure you get the shade you want.) Cut out elephant and use 2-Way Glue Pen to adhere to front of card over white ring. Cut out balloon and adhere to front of card with Stampin' Dimensional. Use Basic Black Stampin' Write Marker to draw line from bottom of balloon to elephant's leg (skip over trunk and arm).

6. Punch Decorative Label from Basic Gray card stock. Stamp "bring on the cake" on Whisper White card stock; color the word "cake" with Blender Pen and Baja Breeze ink. Punch out with Scallop Oval punch, and adhere to Decorative Label shape. Fold ribbon in half and adhere to back of Decorative Label. Adhere Decorative Label to front of card with Stampin' Dimensionals.

7. Inside (not shown): Stamp "happy Birthday" from Bring on the Cake set on a piece of 5-1/4" x 4" Whisper White card stock. Color the word "birthday" with Blender Pen and Baja Breeze ink. Adhere to inside of card.

Enjoy!

Cath ;D

I HAVE WINDOWS!!!!!!

It's all I can think about these days . . . the room addition and how much fun we're gonna have in it! Yesterday the windows were installed, and they started putting in insulation, so that means the framework has passed inspection. Now I think we're down to drywall, doors, floor covering and ceiling fans! (And for my friend Audrey some heat!!!!!)

I think we're still on track for a Grand Opening/Anniversary Open House on Saturday, September 10. Will keep you posted.

Cath ;D

August 1 Update

Howdy, Stampin' Enthusiasts!

So many new things going on this month! First, and most exciting to me, is that I'm now a Supervisor with Stampin' Up! Four of my best customers and close friends signed up with me as Stampin' Up! demonstrators during the great $99 Starter Kit promotion in July! We're gonna have lots of fun together, and I'm sure each of them will have a great time as they explore their new stampin' opportunities!

Construction on our new workshop is progressing. The windows are scheduled to arrive August 2, and from there I think things will go VERY quickly -- doors, insulation and drywall are all waiting to be added as soon as the windows are in. And the MOST FUN ceiling fans!!!! I'm just so anxious for the fun to begin in our new room. But it will just have to wait until September. (Watch my Upcoming Stampin' Events for September dates as soon as they're available.)

In the meantime, there are several stamp camps going on around town during August. (Note that Stamp Camp North and the South Stamp-a-Stack have been canceled this month due to vacations and other summer festivities. Check out the right-hand column for dates and contact information.

Be sure to check out the first item on the side bar too! During the month of August, Stampin' Up! is offering a FREE package of Designer Series Paper when you you purchase 3 packages at regular price. This is a great opportunity to stock up on all of the new designs offered in the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog.

Until next time . . . keep on stampin'!!!

Cath ;D

Crafters Garage Sales

Each year when the new Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog is released, my demonstrator friends go through their inventory and plan garage sales to reduce their stash. You can find some great bargains on retired Stampin' Up! merchandise, as well as lots of other craft supplies.

I'll post the information under my Upcoming Events heading on the right as I hear about these events.

The two I know about right now are:

Wednesday through Friday, July 20-22: 3146 W. 11th Ave. Ct., Broomfield, CO (Ann Lohmeyer & friends)

Friday and Saturday, August 19-20: 9675 Kendall Ct., Westminster, CO (Jayne Fuller & friends)

Hope you're able to make it to one or both of these events and pick up some great bargains!!!!

Cath ;D

Construction Update

Howdy, folks! Construction on the room addition is moving along nicely. And just look at all those windows!!!!

Unfortunately, it appears that the room won't be finished in time for the August 13 workshops, so I'm currently anticipating resuming our workshop schedule in September.

In the meantime, I'm working on my inventory, doing a couple of Stamp Camps, and looking into a revamped workshop schedule, plus some added special project classes. I hope it's worth the wait for you all.

Of course, in the meantime you're welcome to contact me to place your orders, or you can place orders online at my Stampin' Up! website.

Cath ;D

JULY 9 WORKSHOPS CANCELED

The construction going on at my house has taken a new turn, and as a result I've had to cancel the July 9 workshops. Keep an eye on this site for updates on the project and new workshop dates.

Cath

Box Card (July 9 Workshop Project)

Is it a card? Is it a box? You decide! This last project for the July 9 workshops, created by Beate Johns, was featured in this week's newsletter from Splitcoaststampers. What great fun!

Cath ;D

My Friend Card (July 9 Workshop Project)

This card, inspired by a Sharon Field design, features the new My Friend stamp set, the new Lace Ribbon Border punch, and Island Indigo, one of the new 2011-2013 In Colors.

Cath ;D

New In Color Card (July 9 Workshop Project)

This bold, bright Thank You card features two of the new In Colors (Calypso Coral and Lucky Limeade), as well as one of the new Hostess sets (Faith in Nature).

Cath ;D

Storage for Baker's Twine

Look at this GREAT idea for storing your Baker's Twine! One of my demonstrator friends sent this to me today and I just wanted to share it with all of you. To see Marie Shaughnessy's blog with complete instructions, click here.

Cath ;D

Spotlight Card (6/11/11 Workshops)

This card is based on a design by Chat Wsczelaki (take a look at Chat's creations by clicking here).

Materials:

Stamp Set:
* On the Grow (123075-w, $15.95; 123077-c, 11.95; set of 4) (2011 Summer Mini Catalog)

Paper:
* Sahara Sand card stock: 8-1/2" x 5-1/2" (121043, 24 sheets, $6.95)
* Whisper White card stock: 4" x 2-3/4"; scrap for Word Window punch (100730, 40 sheets, $8.50)
* Blushing Bride card stock: 5" x 3-3/4"; 4-1/4" x 3" (119796, 24 sheets, $6.95)
* Early Espresso card stock: 4-3/4" x 3-1/2"; scrap for 1-3/8" Circle punch (119686, 24 sheets, $6.95)
* Patterns Designer Series Paper Stack, Neutrals (Sahara Sand): 4-3/4" x 1-1/4" (40 12” x 12” sheets, $19.95)

Ink:
* Early Espresso Classic Stampin’ Pad (119670, $5.95)
* 2010-2012 In-Color Stampin’ Write Markers - Blushing Bride and Pear Pizzazz (119801, set of 5, $14.95)
* Smooch Pearlized Accent Ink - Illuminate Top Coat (121084, $5.50)

Accessories:
* 1-1/4” Circle Large Punch (119861, $15.95)
* 1-3/8” Circle Large Punch (119860, $15.95)
* Crochet Trim – Victoria 5/8” (118481, 5 yards, $6.95)
* Mini Glue Dots (103683, $4.95)
* SNAIL Adhesive (104332, $6.95; refills 104331, $4.50)
* Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430, $3.95)

Instructions:
(Note: Unless otherwise indicated, SNAIL Adhesive was used to assemble card.)

1. Score Sahara Sand card stock at 4-1/4"; fold away from the scoreline to create card.

2. Adhere 5" x 3-3/4" Blushing Bride card stock to front of card; adhere Early Espresso card stock over Blushing Bride; adhere Designer Series Paper across bottom of Early Espresso. Set aside.

3. Stamp flowers in jar image on Whisper White card stock; punch 1-1/4" circle from portion of image, being sure to include some flowers and part of the jar. Adhere remaining Whisper White card stock to smaller piece of Blushing Bride card stock. Adhere this piece to front of card with Stampin' Dimensionals.

4. Use Stampin' Write Markers to color flowers and leaves on the circle cut from the image. Use Smooch Ink to paint the jar. Allow to dry, then adhere to 1-3/8" Early Espresso circle. Line up with image on front of card, and adhere with Stampin' Dimensionals.

5. Punch Modern Label from Blushing Bride card stock. Stamp "thinking of you" on scrap of Whisper White card stock and punch out with Word Window punch; adhere to Modern Label; adhere Modern Label to front of card with Stampin' Dimensionals.

6. Make bow with Lace Ribbon and adhere to card with Mini Glue Dot.

Some of the people in my workshops thought this looked like a wedding card, so instead of using the "thinking of you" sentiment, they substituted "For the Newlyweds" from the Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp set.

Hope you enjoy this card.

Cath ;D

Clear Block Card (6/11/11 Workshops)

This is a simple card that uses an acrylic clear mount stamp block to create a block of color.

Materials:

Stamp Set:
* Charming (116519-w, set of 7, $19.95)

Paper:
* Soft Suede card stock: 8-1/2" x 5-1/2" (115318, 24 sheets, $6.95)
* Naturals White card stock: 5-1/2" x 4-1/4" (101849, 40 sheets, $7.50)

Ink:
* Crumb Cake Classic Stampin’ Pad (121030, $5.95)
* Early Espresso Classic Stampin' Pad (119670, $5.95)
* Soft Suede Classic Stampin’ Pad (115657, $5.95)

Accessories:
* Size “B” Clear Block (117147, $5.95)
* SNAIL Adhesive (104332, $6.95; refills 104331, $4.50)

Other
* Spray bottle filled with water

Instructions:

1. Score Soft Suede card stock ta 4-1/4"; fold away from score line to create card.

2. Tear about 1/4" from all edges of Naturals White card stock; scrape edges across Soft Suede ink pad to apply color to edges.

3. Spritz Naturals White card stock with water; ink up Clear Block with Crumb Cake ink (just like you would apply ink to a stamp) and stamp block on wet card stock. Air dry or use heat tool to dry card stock.

4. When completely dry, use Early Espresso to stamp words over the left edge of the block of color (to make the image appear faded out, "stamp off" once before stamping on card stock -- that is, stamp on scratch paper once and then, without re-inking, stamp on card stock). Stamp flower and butterfly as shown (do not stamp off first).

5. Adhere Naturals White card stock to front of card.

This is a very basic card -- you can use it as is, or you could make several of them and set them aside until you're ready to use them. Then you can pull out a card and stamp a sentiment under the image, or add ribbon, or add other embellishments, to customize it for the occasion.

Oh, by the way . . . in the class I showed my folks the card I "boo-booed" on when I was experimenting with this technique. They all liked it so well, they opted to make that card instead! Here's a photo of it -- the only difference is that before spritzing the card stock with water, I stamped the clear block with Marina Mist ink. THEN I spritzed it and stamped the Crumb Cake ink over the Marina Mist. This version adds a touch of color to the card.



Enjoy!

Cath ;D

Masculine All-Occasion Card (06/11/11 Workshops)

A couple of fun techniques were used to make this all-occasion card with a more masculine feel.

Materials:

Stamp Sets:
* Sail Away (123013-w; set of 1, $9.95) (2011 Summer Mini Catalog)
* The Open Sea (123030-s, set of 5, $26.95; 123032-c, $18.95; set of 5)
* Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370-w, set of 24, $36.95)

Paper:
* Not Quite Navy card stock: 8-1/2" x 5-1/2"; scrap for 1-1/4" Square punch (101722, 24 sheets, $6.95)
* Sahara Sand card stock: 4" x 3-1/4"; scraps for 1-3/8" Square and Modern Label punches (121043, 24 sheets, $6.95)
* Glossy White card stock: 3-3/4" x 3"; scraps for Postage Stamp and Word Window punches (102599, 25 sheets, $5.95)
* Nautical Expedition Designer Series Paper: 5-1/2" x 1-3/4" (122343, 12 sheets, $10.95) (2011 Summer Mini Catalog) -- Coordinating colors: Cherry Cobbler, Not Quite Navy, Early Espresso, Basic Gray)

Ink:
* Basic Black Classic Stampin’ Pad (101179, $5.95)
* Marina Mist Classic Stampin’ Pad (105120, $5.95)
* Baha Breeze Refill Ink (111844, $2.95)
* Sahara Sand Stampin’ Write Marker (105105, $3.50)
* Shimmer Paint, Frost White (116854, $5.95)

Stampin’ Up! Accessories:
* Bitty Bat Large Punch (119279, $15.95) (Last Change List - available only through June 30)
* Postage Stamp Punch (122344, $15.95) (2011 Summer Mini Catalog)
* 1-1/4” Square Large Punch (119865, $15.96)
* 1-3/8” Square Extra-Large Punch (119877, $16.95)
* Word Window Large Punch (119857, $15.95)
* Modern Label Extra-Large Punch (119849, $16.95)
* Stampin’ Sponges (101610, package of 3, $3.50)
* Paper Snips (103579, $9.95)
* SNAIL Adhesive (104332, $6.95; refills 104331, $4.50)
* Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430, $3.95)

Miscellaneous:
* Scrap paper to make clouds template
* Rubbing alcohol
* Post-it note (at least 3” x 2”) to mask sale

Instructions:
(Note: Unless otherwise indicated, SNAIL Adhesive was used to assemble this card.)

1. Score Night of Navy card stock at 4-1/4"; fold away from scoreline to create card.

2. Adhere Designer Series Paper ("DSP") to front of card across bottom; adhere 4" x 3-1/4" Sahara Sand card stock over DSP toward left edge of card.

3. Use Basic Black ink to stamp boat on Glossy White card stock; stamp again on a Sticky Note; cut out the sails with Paper Snips and position over the sails on the Glossy White card stock. Make template for clouds by punching Bitty Bats across scrap paper, overlapping the wings at the ends (the template will be the piece with the scallops formed by the bottom of the bat wings). Starting at the top, place template over ship with the scallops toward the top; use Stampin' Sponge to apply Marina Mist ink above template; move the template slightly down and to the left or right and apply more Marina Mist ink, leaving the tops of the scallop shapes white; continue to move the template down and to the right or left and apply ink until you reach the water line on the ship image. You should see big, fluffy clouds. Remove Sticky Note sails to reveal sparkling white sails surrounded by cloudy skies.

4. Mix a small amount of Frosty White Shimmer Paint, a drop or two of Baha Breeze refill ink, and a few drops of rubbing alcohol in a small container. Use Stampin' Sponge to lightly sponge mixture across bottom of Glossy White card stock to create a wet and shimmery looking ocean. Allow to dry completely, then adhere to front of card over Sahara Sand card stock.

5. Punch 1-3/8" Square from Sahara Sand card stock; punch 1-1/4" Square from Not Quite Navy card stock, and adhere to Sahara Sand square. Stamp Compass from The Open Sea on a scrap of Glossy White card stock; punch out with Postage Stamp punch; adhere to Not Quite Navy square. Adhere to front of card with Stampin' Dimensionals.

6. Punch Modern Label from Sahara Sand card stock. Stamp sentiment from Teeny Tiny Wishes on Glossy White card stock; adhere to Modern Label. Adhere Modern Label to front of card with Stampin' Dimensionals.

This is a great card for graduation, retirement, birthday, Father's Day, or any other occasion for the men in your life.

Cath ;D

Instructions for Lakewood and Longmont Stamp Camp Card

This is the card we made at my table at Stamp Camp West on May 21 and Sassy Chic Stampers Stamp Camp in Longmont on June 4. I copped the design from Kari Metzger, and made a few adjustments to make her card more stamp-camp-friendly. To sneak a peek at some of Kari's creations, click here. Her version of this card appears toward the bottom of the page.

Materials:

Stamp Set
* The Open Sea (2011 Summer Mini Catalog)

Paper
* Not Quite Navy card stock (8-1/2” x 5-1/2”; scrap for 1-1/4” square)
* Early Espresso card stock (5-3/8” x 4”)
* Crumb Cake card stock (enough for a 3” and a 2-1/2” circle)
* Whisper White card stock (3-1/2” x 2-1/2”; scrap for postage stamp)
* Glossy White card stock (scrap for 2-1/2” circle)
* Nautical Expedition DSP* (3-3/4” x 2-1/2”; 3-5/8” x 2-1/2”) (2011 Summer Mini Catalog)

Ink
* Basic Black, Basic Gray, Early Espresso, Marina Mist and Not Quite Navy Classic Stampin’ Pads

Stampin’ Up! Accessories
* Big Shot Die Cutting Machine
* Square Lattice Embossing Folder
* 3” Circle Die
* 2-1/2” Circle Punch
* 1-3/4” Circle Punch
* 1-1/4” Square Punch
* Postage Stamp Punch (2011 Summer Mini Catalog)
* Bitty Bat Punch (Last Chance Item -- available only through June 30, or while supplies last)
* Stampin’ Sponge
* 1 Eyelet; 1 Jumbo Eyelet; 5 Brads (Note: Jumbo Eyelets are on Last Chance List and will no longer be available after June 30)
* Crop-a-Dile
* Baker’s Twine (2011 Summer Mini Catalog)
* SNAIL Adhesive, Stampin’ Dimensionals

Instructions

1. Score Not Quite Navy card stock at 4-1/4"; fold away from scoreline to create card.

2. Emboss Early Espresso card stock with Big Shot and Square Lattice Embossing Folder; adhere to front of card.

3. Use Basic Gray to stamp ship's log image on Whisper White card stock; use distressing tool or paper snips to "rough up" edges of card stock, as well as the two pieces of Designer Series Paper. Use Early Espresso stampin' pad to apply ink around edges of all three pieces. Layer three pieces as shown.

4. Use Basic Gray to stamp anchor on scrap of Whisper White; punch image with Postage Stamp punch; use Early Espresso stampin' pad to apply ink around edges. Punch 1-1/4" square from Not Quite Navy card stock; adhere anchor to square and adhere square to ship's log as shown.

5. Use Crop-a-dile to punch a small hole in loop at top of anchor through all thicknesses; attach small eyelet; punch large hole through all thicknesses near top of ship's log and attach jumbo eyelet.

(TIP: It's easier to line up the anchor and the jumbo eyelet so the anchor appears to be hanging straight down from the jumbo eyelet if you lay out -- but don't attach -- the ship's log piece and the anchor and mark the placement before punching the holes.

6. Loop Baker's Twine through eyelets three times (or however many times you like) and knot together in the front. Adhere piece to front of card as shown.

7. Punch 3" circle from Crumb Cake card stock. Punch 1-3/4" circle from Crumb Cake card stock; center 1-3/4" hole in 2-1/2" Circle Punch and punch again to create ring for porthole. Sponge Early Espresso ink around outer edges of 3" circle, as well as inner and outer edges of 2-1/2" ring. Set aside.

8. Use Basic Black ink to stamp ship on Glossy White card stock; punch out with 2-3/8" Scallop Circle punch. Stamp ship again on a Sticky Note; cut out the sails with Paper Snips and position over the sails on the Glossy White card stock. Make template for clouds by punching Bitty Bats across scrap paper, overlapping the wings at the ends (the template will be the piece with the scallops formed by the bottom of the bat wings). Starting at the top, place template over ship with the scallops toward the top; use Stampin' Sponge to apply Marina Mist ink above template; move the template slightly down and to the left or right and apply more Marina Mist ink, leaving the tops of the scallop shapes white; continue to move the template down and to the right or left and apply ink until you reach the water line on the ship image. You should see big, fluffy clouds. Sponge Night of Navy ink across the bottom of the image up to the water line (no template needed for this part). Remove Sticky Note sails to reveal sparkling white sails surrounded by cloudy skies.

9. Adhere ship to center of 3" Crumb Cake circle; adhere Crumb Cake ring over ship covering scallop edges. Punch a star shape from a Sticky Note and attach to center of circle. Use the points of the star as a guide to position brads on outer ring of porthole. Adhere to front of card with Stampin' Dimensionals.

Ahoy, Matey! You're card is finished!

Cath :D

Strength & Hope Card

This card features the Strength & Hope stamp set from the 2011 Summer Mini Catalog, and is based on a design by Lisa Martz.

Materials:

Stamp Set:
* Strength & Hope (118100-w, $17.95; 123660-c, $13.95; set of 4)

Paper:
* Naturals White card stock (8-1/2" x 5-1/2"; about 4" x 4" for die; 5" x 3-3/4"; 2-7/8" x 1-1/8) (102316, 40 sheets, $7.50)
* Marina Mist card stock (5-1/8" x 3-7/8"; 3" x 1-1/4") (119682, $6.95)
* Old Olive card stock (119934, $6.95)
* Scrap card stock (3-1/4" x 3-1/4")
* Beyond the Garden Designer Series Paper (3-1/4" x 3-1/4") (122342, $10.95)
(Coordinating colors: Wild Wasabi Melon Mambo, Daffodil Delight, Pacific Point, Tangerine Tango)

Ink:
* Old Olive Classic Stampin’ Pad (102277, $5.95)
* Marina Mist Classic Stampin’ Pad (105120, $5.95)
* Pacific Point Classic Stampin’ Pad (111837, $5.95)

Accessories:
* Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439, $99.95)
* Lattice Bigs Die (115958, $21.95)
* Floral Fusion Sizzlits Die (115969, $5.50)
* Rhinestone Brads (Circle Fire) (109110, $10.95)
* Basic Pearls Self-Adhesive Jewels (119247, $4.95)
OR Basic Rhinestones Self-Adhesive Jewels (119246, $4.95)
* Paper Snips (103579, $9.95)
* Bone Folder (102300, $6.95)
* Paper Piercing Tool (116631, $3.50)
* Mat Pack (105826, $9.95)
* SNAIL Adhesive (104332, $6.95; refills 104331, $4.50)
* Mini Glue Dots (103683, $4.95)
* Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430, $3.95)
* Dotto Adhesive (103305, $12.95; refills 100902, $6.50)

Instructions:
Unless otherwise noted, SNAIL Adhesive used to adhere everything.

1. Score 8-1/2" x 5-1/2" card stock at 4-1/4"; fold away from scoreline to create card. Adhere 5-1/8" x 3-7/8" Marina Mist card stock to front of card.

2. Place small amount of Dotto on back of 3-1/4" x 3-1/4" cardstock and adhere about 1/4" inch from top of 5" x 3-3/4" Naturals White card stock. Place between two acrylic pads and roll through Big Shot on top of Sizzix Base to create raised frame on front of card.

3. Use Paper Cutter or cutting pad and Craft Knife to cut 3" x 3" square out of front of card within raised frame. Stamp Butterfly image on square using Marina Mist and Pacific Punch (ink stamp with Marina Mist first, and then before stamping, roll edges of stamp on Pacific Point Stampin' Pad). Cut out butterfly and set aside.

4. Use Big Shot and Lattice Die to cut shape from 4" x 4" Naturals White card stock. Adhere to back of 3" x 3" opening with a Mini Glue dot in each corner of die shape. Apply SNAIL Adhesive to back around edges of lattice shape and adhere Designer Series Paper so design shows through lattice. Apply to front of card over Marina Mist card stock.

5. Cut another Lattice shape from Old Olive (you only need a small amount for this one -- not the entire shape -- because you're only going use two of the "leaf" shapes). Distress edges of two leaves with Old Olive ink; curl the shapes with a Bone Folder (similar to curling ribbon with a pair of scissors), and adhere to upper corner of card with Mini Glue Dots.

6. Use Big Shot and Fusion Flowers Sizzlit to cut flower shapes from Marina Mist card stock. Distress the edges of the flowers with Marina Mist ink, and curl petals with Bone Folder. Layer the three flowers with the largest on the bottom, and use Paper Piercing Tool and Foam Pad from Mat Pack to punch a hole through the center of all three layers. Insert Rhinestone Brad and open prongs on the back. Adhere to front of card over leaves with Mini Glue Dots.

7. Use Pacific Point ink to stamp words on 2-7/8" x 1-1/8" Naturals White card stock and adhere to 3" x 1-1/4" Marina Mist card stock. Adhere near bottom of card.

8. Use bone folder to curl wings on butterfly and adhere to card with two Mini Glue Dots in the center of the butterfly. Adhere a row of Pearls or Rhinestones down center of butterfly.

Cath ;D