Pink Polka Dot Boots

Monday Lunchtime Sketch

2009-12-20T20:56:00.002-06:00

I'll be continuing with the Valentines theme here for a while, and since Mary Jo has been kind enough to include hearts in her next few Lunchtime Sketches, it works out perfectly!

Check out her blog for the sketch and details.

This stamp set (Moose You) has some cute animals with fun play on words. I love this little porky with the "stuck on you" sentiment.

I didn't really follow traditional Valentine's colors, but thought it would still work.

The pumpkin pie background has been dry embossed with a heart texture plate.

I'll be back next week with the next sketch challenge, but probably not before. Have a great week everyone.

Technostamper's 100th Sketch

2009-12-14T11:42:00.003-06:00

Well, that wasn't a very long "blogging break," but I had to play along for Mary Jo's 100th Monday Lunchtime sketch.

Wow, I can't believe she has come up with 100 different card layout ideas! Way to go, Mary Jo!

I'm starting to think about Valentine's Day for my Etsy Shop. I'll begin putting cards in there in early January. So that was my theme for this sketch.

This is some very old designer paper (Loves Me), that I have just a few pieces of, so I thought I should use some of it up. The punched out hearts both have crystal effects on them. The "highlighted" words that the arrow is pointing to say, loves me."

Don't forget to check out Mary Jo's blog, and her cards this week.

Blogging Break

2009-12-10T09:46:00.002-06:00

I'm feeling like I need to take a blogging break. Right now, it's not something I'm enjoying, but more feeling like it's a duty. I don't want this blog to be like that. I haven't decided yet if I'm going to continue the blog, or just quit it, so until then, I'm taking a break.

Thanks for understanding!

I should add, that this does not mean that I am not making cards. I still am, and am posting them in my Etsy shop. I just won't be posting anything new here for a while.

TSSC97--Sort of

2009-11-23T07:03:00.003-06:00

I think I should just call this day "Mary Jo Monday," since most of my Monday posts are inspired by her wonderful sketches. (Check out her blog for all the details.)

I didn't follow this sketch exactly, just sort of, kind of. I think she wanted the card to be square, but since I'm posting it in my Etsy shop, and a rectangular card is easier to mail, I didn't do square.

I followed the layer and the rounded corners, up until you get to the focal image. Then there was supposed to be another rectangle. I was planning on putting the snowflakes down in a vertical line, but they looked better "blowing" across the card. So that's that. :)

You can't tell from this picture, but the snowflakes are sparkly too, with dazzling diamonds embossing powder.

I'm not sure if I will get anything else posted this week, since Thanksgiving dinner is at my house.

Have a wonderful week, and great Thanksgiving day! Eat lots...I know I will!

Sense Of Time

2009-11-20T06:00:00.000-06:00

This card has a slightly masculine feel to it, but yet, I don't think it has to be given to a man. The sentiment says, "An unhurried sense of time is in itself a form of wealth."

I'm not always a big fan of sayings like this, but I do really like this one. I think because life is so busy, it's nice to think of just enjoy time.

Both of the clock centers have a brad in them, giving it slightly more dimension.

The brown cardstock has been dry embossed, and then sanded. It looks a little like suede. A great all occasion card for anyone!

Embossed Snowflakes

2009-11-18T06:00:00.000-06:00

It's not too often that I pull out my heat gun, and heat emboss. It's a messy business, and I usually end up with fine, embossing powder all over that place. Once in a while though, it's worth the effort.

This card is like a gently falling snow. Each of the flakes is stamped on glossy white cardstock, and then sprinkled with clear embossing powder. Once the powder melts, you have a slightly raised image.

After that, I rubbed different shades of blue over the cardstock. The embossed images resist the ink, so they stay their orginal color.

The metal tag frames "joy," which is covered in an irridescent, sparkly embossing powder. It reflects the light just like fresh fallen snow.

She Keeps Me Going

2009-11-15T14:00:00.001-06:00

I was going through a little bit of an unmotivated phase. I didn't know what to make, and therefore, I didn't feel like trying. Mary Jo, has inspired many of my cards with her wonderful sketches though, and that was were I started today.

This layout is for her Monday Sketch Challenge.

Make sure you check out her blog, to get all the details, and see what she's come up with.

At first I did not have any words on the front of this card, and it just didn't look finished. Once I added the sentiments though, I was happy.

I was having so much fun, that I made another card with the same layout:

And since I still had some time until the kids arrived home from school, I made a card with last weeks layout. I really meant to play along last Monday, but never had a chance to sit down and make the card. So, better late than never!

Thanks so much Mary Jo!

2009-11-13T06:00:00.000-06:00

I love this fun flower peeking out of the corner. This stamp set is called Pick a Petal, and comes in different pieces. You can pick which petals, and which center to put together.

I don't know how well it shows up in this picture, but there is a "doodly" (I'm sure that's not a word, but I think you get what I'm saying) swirl in the corners.

A great thank you to send to someone you love, or even just like :).

Mini Thank You Notes

2009-11-11T06:00:00.000-06:00

I made these mini thank you's with other Etsy sellers in mind. They are the perfect size to jot a handwritten thank you to customers, and stick it in with their order. Nothing too fancy, or fussy, but still pretty cute, in my opinion :).

One of My Favorites

2009-11-09T11:21:00.003-06:00

This is one of my favorite cards. I love the colors (it shows the colors in my house), and the style. It may be too "fussy" for some, but not me.

The focal image is stamped on watercolor paper, and lightly watercolored. Nothing too bold, just a soft glow. The red cardstock behind it has a french script stamped on it, but then it was misted with water to "blur" the image, and "age" the cardstock. The celery card stock was also aged, and almost looks liek a piece of suede.

The chocolate cardstock has 3 seperate background stamps on it: french script, diamonds, and aida cloth (mesh).

Here's a close up:

The only sentiment on the card is "joy," so it would work for many different occasions.

Mini Notes

2009-11-06T06:00:00.000-06:00

These mini notes are so much fun to make. They are perfect size for a lunch box note, a small gift note, or thank you card. Each one is covered with patterned paper, and then I add some coordinating felt flowers, and a colored brad. A piece of ribbon finishes it off.

The brown in the photo show darker than it actually is. It's really more of a chocolate brown. I also made a set of these in celery, olive and blue. Both of them are in my Etsy shop.

Batik Snowflakes

2009-11-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

I love this vibrant background against the white snowflakes! It reminds me of sitting by a warm fire, with snow gently falling outside the windows.

Since there is a lot of moisture used to produce this background, I used a piece of watercolor paper. That is much thicker than regular cardstock, and much more absorbant.

First, the snowflakes were heat embossed onto the paper, using clear embossing powder. Then I used 4 different hues of blue ink, and added them to the paper with a very wet watercolor brush. They blend together , but the embossed snowflakes repel the ink, so they stand out so well.

Not that I'm ready for snow yet, but I do love the way it looks...on a card. :)

It Looks So Simple

2009-11-01T15:00:00.000-06:00

There are times when I finish making a card, and think, how could it have taken me so long to make.

This card is a perfect example. I spent about 45 minutes on it. There is no special technique involved. I didn't have to think about the layout, since I used Mary Jo's Monday Lunchtime Sketch.

What happens is, even though I have a general idea of what I want to card to look like, I end up spending loads of time working out the little details. For example, I stamped a script background on the olive piece, and I tried it both with the writing running straight across, and then overlapping and at an angle. I decided to go with the angle. But then I decided to add the butterflies over the script, so I had to redo stamp it lighter, so the butterflies would show.

You know what though, that is really one of the things I love about making cards...all the time spent on the details. It's what makes each card unique and individual. I never know exactly how the card is going to turn out until I'm finished. So while I look at a card and think, it looks so simple, there is a lot of time and love that goes in to each one. :)

Make sure you check out Mary Jo's blog to see what she's come up with this week. I'm sure it's as wonderful as always!

Fall Leaves

2009-10-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

Don't you just love it when you see something, and think,
"I can use that to make (blank-whatever your craft is)!" Maybe I'm in the minority on this, but often I see a pattern on someones clothes, or a picture or something and think..."That would make a great card."

The cards don't always turn out the way I have it visualized, but the process is always fun!

I think you know by now, that I love fall. I love the crips air, the crisp smells, the (usually) beautiful weather, and the wonderful blend of colors!

Walking with the dogs recently, I was enjoying all the beautiful leaves. They are almost at their peak color around here. Reds, oranges, yellows, and touches of green! I love the way some leaves have all of these colors togther too.

So it was the leaves that inspired this cards. This leaf was watercolored on watercolor paper (that's thicker than normal cardstock and can absorb more water). I only taped down the center of the leaf, and lightly curled up the edges so it looks like it's ready to blow away.

Highlighting

2009-10-25T16:00:00.001-05:00

This is the time of year that DH is gone some. I take advantage of that time to make my own personal cards that I will need for next years occasions. I have a list of what, and who, I need cards for, and I keep them in a card box for when they are needed. That way, I'm not scrambling to make a card at the last minute. I'll be using this card for Father's Day.

I used Mary Jo's Technostamper Monday Sketch for the layout. Make sure and check out her blog for the sketch and details.

The Highlighting technique makes a detailed stamp easy to work with. This stamp has a lot of fine lined detail, so to color the entire image, it would take patience and time. By highlighting just a small area with color, you still get the "pop" that color brings, but it doesn't take as long.

The image is first stamped on the piece of paper that you will be using on the card. I then stamped in on second piece of paper, and colored in the area that Iwanted highlighted. I wanted the color to be vibrant, so I used stamp pad refills for the ink, along with a blender pen.

The area that had been colored was then punched out with a circle punch. You line it up with your uncolored image and adhere it in place. You can also put a small layer behind your highlighted area if you want to seperate it a little more, but this time, I wanted it to blend right in with the main image.

Here's a close up of the Highlighting:

Give it a try sometime. It's a fun technique!

And Weddings

2009-10-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

In additon to all the babies that are being born this month (in our "circle"), we also have two wedding to attend this month.

So again, since I was making wedding cards, I thought I might add some to my shop.

This happily ever after stamp is so fun! The card has some formality to it with the background papers, but the stamp lightens it up a little.

As you can see, I love this sizzix embossing folder. I used it on both of these cards.

The image on this card is stamped on watercolor paper. I used watercolor crayons to color it. There is something so romantic and peaceful about this image.

I have a few more wedding cards in my Etsy shop, but that's all for today.

Thanks for stopping by!

Babies

2009-10-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

October seems to baby month for us. Well, not us specifically, but for our family and friends. We know 3 families that are expecting their little one this month.

Since I needed to make some baby cards for them, I thought I would keep going and make some for my Etsy shop. Here are just a few.

The circle on this one has an embossed diamond pattern. The giraffe is cut out and applied to the card with foam dots. For the little sweet heart :)

I really like this one. Rock-a-bye baby is stamped along the bottom of the striped paper. The star and moon are both raised with foam dots. Even though the star is pink, I think this card is neutral enough to work for either a girl or a boy.

Speaking of girls, where are they all. Of the 3 we know who are expecting, 2 are having boys, one I'm not sure about. As a matter of fact, most of our friends that have had babies in the last few years (yes, years) have had boys.

I think this is one of my favorites though. It's simple and sweet, just like a new born baby. There is a 3/4 layer of polka dotted white. The sentiment under the old fashioned carriage says, "rubber baby buggy bumpers." I made this same card in pink as well.

Ahhh, babies...I sure do love them!

Man Card #2

2009-10-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

When I made Man Card #1 (see previous post), it was the first time I had used this background stamp. As I was working with it, I thought it would be fun to try making the labels different colors and depths.

I stamped the main background image in one color, then stamped different portions in coordinating colors, cut them out and applied them to the card with foam dots.

One big grouping of labels in different colors. I might have to try this again in brighter colors.

Another perfect man card...not too much of anything, but not completely blah either. No sentiment on this one yet, so again, it would work great for any occasion.

Man Card #1

2009-10-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

When I started making this, I didn't plan on making a masculine card, but that's exactly what I ended up with.

I've said it before, and I'll say it again, man cards are some of the hardest for me to make. There can't be too much fluff, too much puff....too much anything.

I love the way this one turned out though. There is some color too it (but not too much). Some pattern, but nothing that takes over. Even an embellishment, but a very manly one. It doesn't show up in the picture very well, but the brad in the lower right corner has text on it, "fabulous: adjective, amzingly good;wonderful;superb."

This would work great for any guy occasion!

This card also led me to the next, which turned out to me Man Card #2...next post :)

She Gets Me With Another Circle

2009-10-11T15:30:00.000-05:00

You all know how much I love Mary Jo's Technostamper Sketches. She helps me, inspires me, and has started many a card for me! It's been a few weeks since I've joined in for her Monday Sketch challenge. The few that I missed had many different circles, so it wasn't too hard to bow out. Now don't get me wrong. I have nothing against cirlces on cards. I love circles...I just do Not! love making them!

I was in need of a few baby cards though, and once I started I thought I should make a few for my Etsy shop. I went to see what Mary Jo had in store for Monday's challenge, and knew this would work for a baby card. The thing that really worked for me was the fact that even though I had to cut out a circle, most of it is hidden. So any imperfections in the roundness are hidden as well :)

Thanks for helping me out with anothe card MJ!

Make sure you check out her blog for all the sketch details.

Bright Birthday

2009-10-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

My color selection for the cards I make tends to shift with the seasons, but I never get tired of the bright colors! Turquoise and orange are such a lively combination. What's really neat about these colors is that they can be used for a male or female card.

This card was pretty simple, but I love how it turned out. I used the same layout as some of the Holiday cards I have in my Etsy shop right now. The front flap is a half-flap. The stamped words along the side are actually on the inside of the card, but are visible the entire time.

I stamped the words in orange first. Then on a seperate piece of carstock, I stamped them again in turquoise. I cut a few of the turquoise words out and glued them on to the orange. Voila!

Post It Note Holders

2009-10-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

I'd like to tell you that these are extremely difficult to make. Something only a qualified artist should attempt. But, I wouldn't be telling you the truth.

I love these Post it note holders! They are a fun item to add to a desk or set by a phone. Once you have one of these, you won't be searching for the pad of post it's all the time either.

The basic elements are an acrylic photo frame, some patterned paper, ribbon, a barrel style ballpoint pen, and some very good adhesive (you don't want your post it's to come off).

If you are looking for a small gift for a hostess, teacher, or office co-worker, this is it! I just added 3 new designs to my Etsy shop, and will be working on some more soon!

Pumpkins

2009-10-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

I knew that pumpkins tend to take over a garden, so we weren't going to plant any. My daughter talked me into buying seeds though, and am I ever glad we did!

Yes, the vines sprawled and spread over everything, but they didn't really harm the rest of the plants.

My front steps are now decorated with 7 large pumpkins, and loads of mini pumpkins and goards. I love 'em!

I don't generally send "season" cards to my family and friends, but know some of you do! So my pumpkins inspired this card. A great Fall load of pumpkins. I stamped them on watercolor paper and colored them with watercolor crayons.

Happy Fall!

Holiday Cards Are On Sale

2009-10-01T12:13:00.006-05:00

This deal won't last much longer. Buy any 2 sets of Holiday Cards and receive either $4.00 off your purchase, or one free single greeting card of your choice. I added two new sets of Holiday cards this week, and am working on some more.

I know it's still early, but snap them up now and get the deal!

Neither of these sets are specific to any Holiday. Both are sets of 5 cards with matching envelopes.

This first one is simple, and elegant. River Rock cards stock with a fleur de lis in the background. A simple sentiment of "Peace, Love, Joy," in a beautiful script.

This set is a little more whimsical. 3 different patterned papers were used (you can oly see two in this picture), with some fun snowflakes in matching colors. No sentiment was added to this cards, so it can be used for any winter greeting!

Done!

2009-09-29T17:01:00.002-05:00

Tomatoes are done, windows are washed, and I'm ready to stamp again! Yeah! I've added some new Holiday card sets to my shop, which I might post here later, but today, I want to share a new card.

We have 2 weddings to go to this month. I made the cards for the couples yesterday, and then made a slighter different version for my Etsy shop. This one has a swirled embossed pattern on the vanilla background paper. I hand cut the butterflies, and then wanted to make them look like they were flying right off the card.

I glued the body down and raised the wings. I love the end effect!

Tomatoes

2009-09-19T09:28:00.002-05:00

Is anyone else sick of their garden? The tomatoes just keep coming. I guess that's what happend when you plant 18 of them :) I'm ready to be done, but know I'll love it this winter.

I made loads of salsa this week, and it's very yummy! Next week will be more sauce.

Then it's window washing time. Something I've been trying to get done since the beginning of September.

After that I am offically declaring a craft day for me! I keep saying it, but I should be back to regular posts soon (I hope). Please don't abandon me :) I will return!

Back Into The Swing of Things

2009-09-08T19:43:00.002-05:00

The kids are back in school, and I have a short list of projects I put off this summer. Once I finish those, I'll be ready to create! I am really looking forward to getting back into regular card making, and posting. I'm thinking that by the end of next week.....until then, enjoy this gorgeous fall weather!

Thinking Fall

2009-09-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

It doesn't exactly look like fall yet. Nor, feel like it... well, maybe it's felt like fall most of the summer. It's been a cool summer here in Wisconsin. With school a little more than a week away, I'm starting to "think fall."

One of my most favorite things about fall is pumkins! Lots and lots of pumpkins. I usually have the front steps to the house full of them. This year, we planted pumpkins and gourds in the garden, and they are coming along very nicely!

So, while the garden bench isn't exactly a fall scene, the pumpkins most certainly are.

All the images were watercolored (is there any other way to make a beautiful pumpkin). :)
The pumpkins are raised with foam dots.

Have a great day!

What Inspires Me

2009-08-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

By now, I think anyone who reads my blog knows, that a good sketch often inspires me. It's all I need to get started on a card.

But, there are other things that inspire me as well. There have been many times that I have seen an item of clothing, or piece of fabric, and think, "Wow, that would make a neat card." The card doesn't always turn out the way I envisioned it, but sometimes it does, and that makes me keep trying!

This card (actually it's a card set of 4 on Etsy) was inspired by another card though. My sister sent me a note for something, and I knew I had to make some cards similar to it. It's a very fun card!

All of the flowers are raised with foam dots. The row of flowers along the bottom are from a pun, with the flower center stamped on. This one turned out just the way I wanted it too...and so it's all good!

Happy Day!

Happy Card

2009-08-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

I would call this card a "no-frills card." No special techniques used, nothing cut out, no pop -ups, glitter, etc.

Yet, it's such a happy card. The bright colors, and the fun, funky flowers! Wouldn't you just love the have a flower bed or pot of these things!

Of course, there is ribbon on the card! There almost always has to be ribbon on the cards I make. There just does! It's my #1 must have!

Stamp set: Kind and Caring Thoughts

Colors: Pink Passion, Pumpkin Pie, Summer Sun, Gable Green

Technostamper's Monday Sketch

2009-08-23T16:55:00.000-05:00

Is it too early to be thinking snowmen? Notice I didn't say "snow," because I KNOW it's too early to be thinking about that!

I love snowmen! Even though, in reality, they are cold, there is something about them that is cute and cuddly!

Technostamper likes circles (at least I think she does, since she includes them in a lot of her sketches). And while I like circles, I DO NOT like cirlce cutters! Or, they don't like me. I have yet to find one that works without a hitch. I go thru more paper than I need to before I get one that turn s out....but, I love MJ's sketches, so I still play along :)

Here's a close up of the circle, so you can see the sparkly/glittery/blinged snowflake! First it's stamped directly on the cardstock, then I stamped a second one, cut it out, blinged it up, and adhered it with a foam dot.

The snowmen are colored with pure color pencils.

Hope your day is warmer than this card suggests!

Thanks again, Technostamper. Make sure you check out her card for the sketch!

Slight Variation to MJ's Sketch

2009-08-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

I knew this sketch would be a lot of fun! I immediately thought of the new Razzleberry Lemonade Patterned Paper when I saw it. What a great way to show off all those colors and patterns.

Each square is 1/2 inch and individually placed on the white cardstock. Yes, it took a little extra time, but was well worth the effort! The "for you" sentiment measures 1" by 1/2", so it fit perfectly!

You can check out her blog for sketch details. There was supposed to be a circle along the bottom, but I didn't want to take any attention away from all those great patterns in the patchwork.

Technostamper's Sketch 83

2009-08-16T16:11:00.004-05:00

This sketch was really fun! It has "patterned paper" written all over it, at least when I look at it :) But, I don't always see things the way other people do...so, yes, I am just rambling :)

I love patterned paper. I think that after ribbon, that would be my second must have for paper crafting. I have stockpiles of paper, and keep buying more, just because it's so much fun to use!

Now, on with the card! Because, yes, that is what this

blog is all about!

The name of this paper is Pink Flamingo. Only, I didn't use any of the Pink or the Flamingo-y part. :) I love turquoise and yellow together though! It's bright and lively.

The flowers come from the Delight In Life stamps set, and the sentiment from Kind and Caring Thoughts.

Have a great Monday, and make sure you check out Mary Jo's blog!

Firecracker Flowers

2009-08-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

I can't guarantee any regular posts until after the kids are back in school, but I will try to get something new up at least once a week.

New SU colors here again! Wow, they are great! This is such a simple card. No fluff and puff, but I really love the clean look. The polka dot ribbon adds just a dash of fun too!

Corners are rounded on the focal image, and the entire square is raised with dimensionals. The sentiment is, "Hope your birthday is as happy as happy gets!" A great card for anyone! Well, except maybe a boy or man:)

Stamp Set: Kind and Caring Thoughts

Colors: White, Crushed Curry, Rich Razzleberry

Patterened Paper: Razzleberry Lemonade

Monday Sketch Challenge

2009-08-09T16:00:00.000-05:00

Technostamper comes through again, with a great, inspiring sketch! Make sure you check out her blog, as she posts a new sketch each Monday, and has some wonderful cards to share as well!

When I saw this sketch, I couldn't quite figure out what to do with the two background squares. I wanted something subtle, so they didn't take over the card, but yet not entirely boring. This patterned paper worked perfectly. The flower pattern is very light, yet it shows up enough to give the card some extra life.

The two butterflies, and the dragonfly were stamped with Staz-on ink on watercolor paper. I watercolored them with re-inkers, then cut them out and adhered them with foam dots. Bugs really can be beautiful :)

Sets: Touch of Nature (butterfly)

Botanicals (butterfly)

Organic Grace (dragonfly)

On Your Birthday (sentiment)

Patterned Paper: Urban Oasis

Colors: Kiwi Kiss, baja breeze, not quit navy

Set of 4 Cards

2009-08-07T12:28:00.002-05:00

I don't know if I have ever made a card with such clean lines as these 4, but I really like the way the fun images and sentiments stand out!

Each image has a matchings sentiment: "sew glad we're friends," "fan mail," "grateful for you," and "hope you perk up soon." Aren't they fun!

Each card comes with a white envelope and a coordinating envelope seal made out of patterned paper.

This card set would make a great hostess or teacher gift!

Technostampers Monday Sketch

2009-08-02T16:11:00.002-05:00

Woohoo! I'm on a roll! I got another card made today, and it's for Mary Jo's Blog challenge ! The details should be posted on her blog Monday morning.

When you check out her blog, you will see that the original sketch had a "tilted" piece of cardstock where I have put the flowers. I let her know that I wasn't sure I was up for such a drastic move! LOL!

For some reason I just have a hard time putting a tilted image on my cards. I just like things to be lined up. So, MJ, you'll notice that a few of the flowers are leaning toward the left. That's as good as I could do!

Thanks for another great sketch Mary Jo. All supplies SU.

I Am In Love!

2009-08-01T14:55:00.003-05:00

I absolutely adore Stampin' Up's new In-Colors. They are both rich and vibrant at the same time. Modern yet slightly retro. Very stunning!

It's been so long since I sat down at my stamp desk! It was great to take a little time today to make a few cards.

This new stamp set could have many uses, if you ask me. Birthday, thank you, sympathy, wedding. It's great, and it comes with some really wonderful sentiments!

I wanted to add a little more color, and depth to this card than I orginally had, so I cut out a few flowers in different colors and added them with dimensionals. Also, just a little bit of polka dot ribbon along the side for fun!

Stamp Set: Kind and Caring Thoughts

Colors:Melon Mambo, Crushed Curry, Rich Razzleberry

Patterned Paper: Razzleberry Lemonade

Not At All About Cards...

2009-07-30T07:11:00.008-05:00

But here is a part of what has been keeping me busy! :)

Meet Murphy----->

He's sweet, and loving, and right now he is my favorite!

And meet Patrick--->

He's sweet too, and fun, and a little more adventerous.

They are both full of energy and mischief. We are having a great time with them! And wow, do they keep us busy!

On Summer Break

2009-07-06T08:59:00.003-05:00

I'm so busy enjoying summer with my kids, that I am neglecting my blog. So, I've decided to go on Blog Summer Break. I'll return with regular post the end of August. I hope you are enjoying your summer too!

One Last Gift

2009-06-29T06:00:00.001-05:00

Not only do you get the fun and cute pen (see last post) in this gift. You also get the great journal!

The front is covered with 2 coordinating pieces of patterned paper and a striped ribbon. The back cover also has patterned paper on it.

The journal is lined, and has 200 pages... all ready to be filled with your wit, wisdom or greatest longings! This journal is crying to you, wanting to come to your house, needs you :)

You can find this and a few other in my new gift section of my Etsy store.

A Cute Pen Make Writing Fun!

2009-06-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure what it is about a fun pen that snags me, but no matter how many pens I have in my house, it seems like I'm always willing to buy more....if they are cute!

These certainly fit the bill, in my opinion! Each pen has patterned paper inserted into the barrel. The pens are packaged in a colored cello bag, and will arrive at your door all ready to be given as a gift, or to use for yourself! A gift for you!

There are 3 other great sets, all using different patterned paper in the gift section of my Etsy shop. Come on over and take a look.

You can also see a close up of each of the pens, along with the paper used in the barrel when you go to the gift section.

Thanks for stopping by!

It's a Frame, It's a Pen with Paper, It's a....

2009-06-20T09:09:00.003-05:00

Post-It Note Holder! These are great for a desk top or a phone messsage pad!

You start with an acrylic frame. This one is 3 x 5. Insert a piece of patterned paper, and adhere the post-it note to the top of the frame. I used sticky strip on the post-it notes so they would stay firmly attached.

To make it even more fun though, I decorated a ball point pen with some co-ordinating patterned paper and made a little loop out of ribbon to hold the pen in place.

You now have a handy accessory that can be used over and over! This is another item that can be found in my new gift section of my Etsy store.

Here's a close up:

Bluebird

2009-06-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

We have quite a few bluebirds around our house. They are such a pretty bird, and I used them

as my inspiration for this card. The image is stamped on watercolor paper and watercolored. I love the way you can blend hues of color with this techniqued.

The sentiment says, "May happiness touch your life today as you have so often touched the lives of others."

I kept the card neutral enough that it can be given to either a man or a woman.

Tweet, tweet :)

Deals To Be Had and New Gift Section

2009-06-12T10:13:00.003-05:00

The Yart (yard + art = yart) Sale is still going on at Etsy. Lots of great buys, so if you are looking for anything Handmade, make sure you take a look. If you are needing any greeting cards, check out my shop:

10% off all cards

Free secondary shipping

40% off the sale section

Also, my new Gift section is open. I said I would share some of the items there. One of my favorite is the 4 x 4 Tumbled Stone Coasters. I have these coasters all over my house, and they are fabulous! The tiles can be purchased at home supply stores. They must be stamped on in Staz-on or a similar ink. Water based inks will bleed into the stone. They are colored in with chalks and then sealed with an acrylic sealer. I have found that multiple, light coats works best for the sealing.

They hold up very well. The ones around my house are at least 5 years old, and still look great.

I'll share more later.

For now, here's one of the sets of coasters for sale:

Erika's Design

2009-06-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

My oldest is a great card designer. When I used to hold classes at my house, there were many times that we made cards she either designed or helped me with. I copied this card from the one she made her sister for a birthday. Don't you just love the fun colors and layout!

The flowers are all die-cut using the big shot daisy die. Once that is done, the card is super fast to assemble! Who wouldn't smile when they opened this up!

YART Sale on Etsy

2009-06-09T12:01:00.003-05:00

What is a YART sale you ask? It's Yard + Art = YART Sale. The official run dates are Wednesday, June 10th - June 14th, but I've decided to start my sale today.

Come on over to my Etsy Shop and you'll find:

**10% off all greeting cards
**Free secondary shipping
**40% off all cards in the Sale Section

Happy Shopping! And if you are looking for anything else handmade, there are tons of super finds on Etsy!

Many Things Were Accomplished Today

2009-06-08T17:10:00.002-05:00

I had some household chores I could have/should have been working on today, but since the kids are out of school in 3 days, I thought I would take advantage of the time and get some Etsy business taken care of.

First, I will be opening a gift section this week. I'll post items on here as well, but come on over in a few days and check it out.

I love Mary Jo's Monday Sketch Challenges, and made sure I slipped that in today too. Check out the details of the challenge on her blog.

This was a great sketch (again!). All the layered circles are so fun, and the 3 smaller circles just pull the whole card together. I wanted a larger image in the main circle, and since I love to watercolor, I kept that in mind while I was searching through my stamps. I pulled this long lost set out--another one that I'm glad I saved.

The sentiment in the smaller circle says, "Joy is not in things, it is in us." What a great saying! This card could be used for so many different occasions too.

Thanks again MJ for another great "spring board."

Slowin' Down

2009-06-04T09:50:00.003-05:00

Just letting the one or two people who read my blog, that I won't be posting as often over the summer months. :)

I love to be outside when it's nice...riding bike, gardening, going to the beach with the kids. Yes, I know, it's a rough life. :)

I'll still post at least once a week, and possibly more, but I'll be back full force again in the fall.

Retro

2009-06-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

I cut these "flower bursts" out for a different card, that ended up not working out. They are so fun and cute that I knew I needed to use them though. So I set them aside until I was inspired.

The background on the Baja Breeze is a Big Shot Texture plate. I sanded the texture to make is stand out a little more. Isn't it great with all the other circles and polka dots!

The center of the flower burts have a half pearl added to them.

I'm thinking this would make a great teen birthday card, but I didn't add a sentiment so it could be used for any occasion!

Technostamper's Monday Sketch

2009-06-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Now this sketch I love. If you read my post last Monday, you'll remember the circle/square quandry. But this sketch, notice all those nice straight lines to play with :). Then there is the oval and the pumpkins to soften all those lines.

I know we are not even close to "pumpkin season," but I just got this set, and haven't used it much yet. I am a huge, huge fan of pumpkins. They come in so many fun shapes and colors! The pumpkins on this card are cut out and layered on top of the vase with dimensionals.

The orange layer is pumpkin pie (fitting, huh?), but photographed a little dark. It looks great with Baja Breeze!

Make sure you check out Mary Jo's blog and play along if you have time!

Daughter's Thank You Note

2009-05-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

The last of our May birthdays is our middle daughters. This is a card I had made quite a while ago, but she found it and wanted it for her thank you notes.

Glad I still have the stamp set and the patterned paper, as both are now retired. It's a fun tri-fold card with a belly band. Haven't done one of these recently, so it was a nice change.

Really, it was a fast card, and I love that when I have to make multiples!

All Aboard

2009-05-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Are you starting to think about Father's Day yet? I am, and I've been adding cards to my Etsy shop for the occasion! With all the end of the school year, and start of the summer activities, it will be here before we know it.

I love this vintage train, along with this retro paper. This layout is from the Splitcoast Sketch Challenge.

A clean lined, easy card...perfect for a man!

All supplies SU:

Set: Happiness is a Journey

Cardstock: Kraft, Baja Breeze, Black, Urban Oasis DSP

Ink: Pacific Point

Accessories: Vintage Brads

Technostamper's Monday Sketch

2009-05-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

I have to tell you, I like things neat and lined up. I have no problem putting a circle on a card, but then layering squares over the top of the circle...now that was a challenge for me. Putting the square patterned paper behind the circle helped a little. At least the squares have something to line up with, LOL!

This card was made using Mary Jo's Monday Blog Challenge. Go over and check out her blog!

Another Father's Day card for my Etsy shop. This is using a long retired SU set that I still love. It's a great set to use for watercoloring, and for spotlighting, whichi is what this technique is called. The rust layer is torn using the Tearing Edge tool, something else I haven't gotten out for quite a while. It sure does make tearing a straight line easier though.

Have a great Memorial Day everyone!

I'm Way Late

2009-05-21T13:04:00.004-05:00

I'm very late getting this card made, but I wanted to do it when I didn't feel rushed. There are so many outdoor projects to do right now, but today is Stamping Day!

This card is for Mary Jo's Monday Sketch Challenge. I'm sure you can still play along if you like.

The butterflies are die cut and layered with a dimensional. I used linen thread for the bodies and antenea.

The ruffled, chocolate ribbon is from a retired Ribbon Originals Set.

Someday, I'll become tired of making butterfly cards, but not yet. So bear with me :)

Here's a close-up of the butterfly:

All supplies SU:
Cardstock: White, Kraft, Baja Breeze, Urban Oasis DSP
(and wow, it just hit me, there are no stamps and no ink)

Have a great Memorial Weekend Everyone!

Thank You Notes

2009-05-21T06:00:00.000-05:00

I think most, if not all, kids wish they could receive presents, and skip the Thank You's. But, I'm one of those "mean Mom's" who make their kids hand write one for each gift. Ah yes, I sure do remember complaining about that when I was a kid.

L. just turned 10, so he's right on the line of not wanting anything too "cute." Fortunately he loves dogs! As a matter of fact, he's getting a puppy from my sister and bro-in-law this summer.

The thank you note is simple, but perfect for a 10 year old, dog loving boy. I watercolored the image on confetti white paper. The caramel background is textured. Sentiment is "you made my day!"

Now, I just have to get him to sit down long enough to write the notes :)

I'm Back

2009-05-19T14:09:00.004-05:00

I'm feeling so much better than yesterday. Must have been the weather! Unfortunately, the will to stamp is with me today, but the "way" is lacking. There are so many outdoor projects calling right now.

I do have a card to share though, and that's all that counts, right?

This is for my son's 10th birthday. I'm not sure how it came about, but I have a nickname for him, that still pops out of my mouth once in a while. It's "Bear," so this card is fitting.

The "grrreat" part of the sentiment came with the stamp set. The rest of the sentiment I stamp-a-ma-jigged to fit it.

I cut out the 3 sections of the bear and raised the stomach and face. He's so cute!

Here's a close-up:

Have a great day!

I'm not sure why....

2009-05-18T13:08:00.001-05:00

But I am feeling unmotivated and uninspired today. There are things I should/could do, and cards I should/could make, but none of it's happening. I will get some stamping done later this week, so check back :)

Have a great week everyone!

Happiness is a Journey

2009-05-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

As promised, one more Father's Day card. This one does not have a specific "happy father's day" saying on the front, but I can easily add that to the inside.

I really like this sentiment though, "happiness is a journey, not a destination."

This is a pretty simple man card, but I think that's the way most men like them. Again, I did sneak in a little ribbon, but not overmuch.

The stitching is faux, done with a white gel pen.

All supplies SU:

Set: Happiness is a Journey

Cardstock: White, Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss, Holiday Treasures DSP
Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Blue Bayou, Pacific Point

2009-05-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

It took me a few days, but as promised, here is another Father's Day card.

I find masculine cards harder to make than feminine. For one think, I want to "over" decorate them, and then they become to "girly." I did sneak some ribbon onto this one, but I made sure the colors were manly.

This stamp set works great for masucline cards. It's not specific to one hobby or animal like many masucline sets are.

The lock and key are both cut out and raised.

I have one more Father's Day card to share with you tomorrow.

A Few of My Favorite Things

2009-05-13T06:00:00.000-05:00

I made few cards last week, and this one is my favorite. First, I love flowers and especially roses. They come in such a wide variety of hues and colors, and they smell wonderful! I really like the layout of this card too. I'm very linear. I love square corners, straight lines, everything lined up nice and neat, and there is lots of that going on in this card, but the roses just soften the whole thing.

The roses are done on the shimmery white paper. I wonder if anyone has come up with a name for that technique yet? It sure is fun, and has such a Wow factor to it!

Here's a close up of the roses:

Since I named this post, let me list a few more: chocolate (of course), (good) coffee--there is a difference, reds, blues, warm (not hot) summer days, stamping (of course, again). I'll stop there before I put you to sleep :)

All supplies SU:

Sets: Fifth Avenue Floral, Natural Beauty

Cardstock: white, black, ruby red, old olive, raspberrry tart dsp, shimmery white

Ink: ruby red, summer sun, pixi pink

More Rubber Boots

2009-05-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

I don't know what it is about rubber rain boots, but I just think they are cute. I happen to own a pair of red ones too :). Mine are about 15 years old, but I think they are coming back into style as I've been seeing them in more stores.

When I saw this new set in Stampin' Up's Occasion Mini, I tried to resist it. After all, I hate to buy a stamp set just because I like one or two of the stamps. But as you can see, the stamps won and I lost.

I stamped and colored each of the boots, then cut them out and applied them with a dimensional. Aren't they just adorable! This is one of those cards that just makes me smile!

All supplies SU (except the buttons):

Sets: Scene in a Garden, Pocket Silhouettes

Cardstock: White, turquoise, real red, rainbow sherbert dsp

Ink: green galore, real red, tempting turquoise, yoyo yellow, pixie pink

Technostampers Monday Lunchtime Sketch

2009-05-11T06:00:00.002-05:00

Mother's Day is over, so I'm starting to make Father's Day cards for my Etsy Shop. You can't see it in the picture, but there is a sentiment in the bottom corner: "Thinking of you on Father's Day."

The layout comes from Mary Jo's Blog, for her Monday Sketch Challenge. Go on over and check her blog out, and add a card to the challenge if you like. I'm missing a piece of her sketch though. The star that was supposed to go along side the white square just seemed to interfere with the horses. It does look a little empty though, so if you can think of something to add there, leave me a comment to let me know.

I'll be showing you a few more Father's Day cards over the next few days, y'all come on back now :)

All Supplies SU"

Sets: Wanted, Thinking of Father

Cardstock: White, Creamy Caramel, Not Quite Navy, Western Sky DSP

Ink: Close to Cocoa, Chocolate Chip, Really Rust

Accessories: Styled Silver Hodgepodge

Funky Daisy

2009-05-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

I won this Daisy die cut last week, and couldn't wait to get it. Mr. Brown delivered it yesterday afternoon! Yeah!

I used the Pink Flamingo Designer Paper to make the flower. A few of the layers are raised with dimensionals, and then I lightly curled the petals upward. It's fun, bright and cheery!

The red background is texutered with polka dots.

All supplies SU:

Cardstock: White, real red, pink flamingo and bella rose dsp

Accessories: clear button, ribbon orginals pack (retired)

Happy Birthday To Me

2009-05-07T12:50:00.003-05:00

I planned on spending most of the day stamping today, but somehow, half of the day is gone, and I've only made 2 cards. I am enjoying the day though. It's mostly sunny and warm. Nothing pressing to get done. Plus, I made myself a yummy cake that's loaded with fat and calories, and I plan to enjoy it with my family later :)!

I had to try this technique that's been showing up so many places. It's so fun! You stamp your image on shimmery white paper. Heat emboss. Then spray the image with water. Then with a aquapainter or watercolor brush, add color with re-inkers. The colors spread out and blend because of the water on the paper. Allow to dry and then cut out.

This makes a pretty impressive image!

All supplies SU:
Set: Fifth Avenue Floral
Cardstock: White, Kiwi Kiss, Bella Rose DSP, Shimmery White
Ink: Summer Sun, Tangerine Tango, Pixie Pink, Rose Red

Last Weeks Splitcoast Sketch

2009-05-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

If you've read my blog for any amount of time...well, it hasn't been around all that long, but you know what I mean...you will know that I love a sketch challenge.

Usually, that's all I need to get going on a card. Give me a layout idea, and I'm good to go.

This is last Wednesday's Splitcoast Sketch Challenge. The butterfly was supposed to be a circle if you are following the sketch exactly, but I didn't :).

The butterfly is stamped on Parisian Breeze Designer Paper. This is a cardstock weight patterned and textured paper. A paper that I love. A paper pack that I am ordering more of! I drew the swirls in with a white gel pen.

The flowers are stamped in Baja Breeze with the Chocolate Chip highlights sponged on with a dauber.

All Supplies SU:

Sets: Upsy Daisy, Simple Friendship

Cardstock: White, Baja Breeze, Chocolate Chip, Parisian Breeze DSP

Technostampers Monday Sketch Challenge 5/4

2009-05-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

Another fun sketch from Mary Jo! Check out her blog to see the sketch and to play along!

This is supposed to be a square card, according to the sketch, but they cost more to mail. Since I am listing this card in my Etsy shop, I changed it to a standard A2 card.

My daughter had stamped these flowers on a magnet she made with the same fun, bright colors. I liked them so much, I used her idea for this card.

The card is pretty simple, so to Wow it up a little, I decided to use clear, square buttons along the bottom. I added a piece of designer paper behind each one to make them fun!

All Supplies SU:

Set: Upsy Daisy

Cardstock: White, Tempting Turquoise, Only Orange, Rainbow Sherbert DSP

Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Only Orange, Yoyo Yellow, Pixie Pink, Green Galore

Made by a 10 year old

2009-05-03T17:35:00.005-05:00

My (almost) 10 year old son made this Thank You card today. He is artistic and likes to make cards once in a while. He always comes up with his own layouts and designs.

What I really love about this card is the fact that he cut certain parts of the image out and popped them up. It just cracks me up that he went to that amount of detail :)

And check out his cutting...he's good, if I do say so myself! Thanks for looking! He would love comments, I'm sure :)

Three Clovers Thursday Sketch Challenge

2009-05-01T14:09:00.004-05:00

I'm a day late getting this card made, but I have valid excuses...bathrooms that needed to be cleaned, carpets that needed to be vacuumed...you get the idea. There was no stamping done yesterday, but I made sure there would be time to make up for it today.

This card is for Kerry's Three Clovers Designs Thursday Blog Challenge. This week she posted a sketch for us to follow. Check out her blog for the sketch, and feel free to play along as well. I omitted one layer of the sketch, as I just couldn't make it work with this card. I think Kerry will forgive me though.

The flowers are colored with a blender pen and re-inkers. I also stamped a second flower stem, and cut it out. Then added it to the original stem with dimensionals. I love a 3-D card!

This would make a wonderful Mother's Day card! All supplies SU:

Set: Friends 24-7

Cardstock: White, Kiwi Kiss, Pink Pirouette, Red Riding Hood, Bella Rose DSP

Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Pink Pirouette, Red Riding Hood

I've been reviewed

2009-04-30T19:33:00.000-05:00

How fun, how fun....you can read it here:

http://preciouspeas.blogspot.com/

New Baby

2009-04-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

Niece and Nephew on my husbands side are expecting their first baby! Since we live a long, long ways away from them, I wanted to send them a card to let them know how excited we are! Also, it's just another reason to make a card :)

I think this is the first time I've used this set (except for using these adorable little chicks on a project one time). Of course, we don't know if they are having a boy or a girl, but I thought this was neutral enough (even if it does lean towards boy a little).

Each of the stars are cut out and adhered with a dimensional.

All supplies SU:
Set: Nursery Necessities
Cardstock: White, blue bayou, kiwi kiss
Ink: Blue bayou, kiwi kiss

Kwernerdesign's 50th Color Challenge

2009-04-28T12:54:00.005-05:00

Kristina Werner has posted her 50th color challenge on her blog this week. She comes up with some great combinations and always has fun, inspiring picture to go along with it. I really love what she came up with for her 50th!

At first I just stamped the flowers on this card, but I really wanted them to pop out, so I stamped then on colored cardstock (with chocolate chip ink--no black ink allowed for this challenge). Then I cut them out and adhered them with dimensionals. A small layer of chocolate chip cardstock behind them makes them stand out even more.

The textured/swirled white cardstock is layered on white. I love doing this. It makes such a crisp, clean card.

And here it is:

All supplies SU:

Set: Friends Always

Cardstock: White, chocolate chip, real red, tempting turquoise, summer sun

Ink: real red, chocolate chip

Accessories: Big Shot texture plate, dimensionals

Summer

2009-04-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

All these fun bright colors, and the butterflies remind me of summer! And yes, it's finally warming, and greening, up in Wisconsin!

The butterflies are all stamped on different sheets of the Pink Flamingo Designer Paper. I didn't think I would like this paper at first, but I've fallen in love!

Each butterfly is cut out, and then adhered to the card with a dimensional. The rub-on along the side is from a cute pack I bought in the Archeivers *hot deals* spot. I think the maker is Fancy Pants.

The butterflies are from various SU sets.

Have a great Tuesday!

Technostampers Monday Challenge

2009-04-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

It's time for another one of Mary Jo's great sketches. You can see all the details on play along on her blog.

I see that I forgot to round the corners of my top layer, but I guess that's minor.

I stamped my focal image on the cut out circle, but when I layed it on the designer paper, it got lost in the print. I thought I would try cracked glass to make it stand out a little more.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with this technique, you heat emboss clear embossing powder on your image. If you are not using UTEE (ultra-thick embossing powder) you need to melt multiple layers so you have a nice, thick coating over your image. Then you stick it in the freezer for a few minutes. This hardens the embossing powder up. Take your image out of the freezer and lightly bend it to crack the embossing powder, or "glass."

Here's the card (finished size 5 1/2 square):

All supplies SU:

Set: Garden Silhouettes

Cardstock: White, old olive, bella rose dsp, chocolate chip

Ink: Pretty in pink, old olive, rose red

Have a great Monday!

Don't forget to add your card to Mary Jo's blog if you use the sketch, so everyone can see it!

Three Clovers Thursday Challenge

2009-04-24T12:13:00.002-05:00

Kerry's blog challenge this week was "It's a Zoo." We needed to make a card using an animal, or animals. I sorted through my stamp sets, I found this long lost, unused and neglected one.

Can elephants be cute? I think this one is! I watercolored him on confetti white and after cutting him out, applied him to the card with dimensionals.

I didn't know if I would like this Pink Flamingo Designer Paper, but wow, is it fun! Bright colors for the most part, and some neat patterns.

The layout for this card is also Splitcoast's weekly sketch challenge. Since I was a little late on both, I thought I would combine the two :)

All supplies SU:

Set: Have a Heart (long since retired)

Cardstock: White, black, pink flamingo dsp

Ink: watercolor crayons

Wedding Card

2009-04-22T06:30:00.000-05:00

I was recently contacted throught Etsy about doing wedding invites for a couple in Italy. I was asked to look at some pictures they had posted online and come up with some ideas from there. They had a beautiful picture of red poppies that inspired this card.

I submitted 3 cards for them to look at, but this was my favorite. To be honest, I was quite intimidated at the prospect of doing 130 of the same card (that's a lot of repetition), and having them be wedding invites at that (don't want to mess anything up). So, I wasn't terribly disappointed when they told me that had found their invite elsewhere. I was glad that they asked me to try though.

The flower bud is stamped on watercolor paper, cut out and applied to the card with a dimensional. I applied it slightly off, to give the flower even more fullness.

Here's a close-up of the flower:

All supplies SU:

Sets: French Script, Bloomin' Beautiful

Ink: Red riding hood, tangerine tango, olive

Cardstock: White, red riding hood, olive

And that is the story of my 15 seconds of fame :)

A Green Challenge

2009-04-20T14:31:00.003-05:00

The Etsy Team I have been hoping to become a member of is having a green challenge this month. We had to make something out of an empty ribbon spool .

I don't usually hang on to this kind of thing, but luckly I had one that was almost empty. So, I was able to play.

First, let me say, I am not an *outside the box* thinker. I like things neat, straight, lined up, etc. When someone shows me a circle punch, I see a circle. When someone shows me an empty ribbon spool, I see garbage. You know what I'm saying. I just can't envisions. So, to come up with an idea was a challenge in itself for me.

At first I thought I would do some kind of fold out album, but as I started working with this, I wondered if a circle card wouldn't be better. (Or maybe I just go lazy, and the card was easier.) :)

I covered both sides of the spool cardboard with designer paper, scored a fold line along the edges, and *sealed* them together with lilac brads. Then to add a cuteness factor (because I love cuteness), I added the ribbon.

The inside has a little field of flowers going on, to match the outside paper, and says "celebrating you." Wouldn't this be a fun card to give for a birthday or just because?

Well, guess what, I'm giving it away. All you have to do is leave a comment on this post and at the end of the week, I'll either send it to the one lonely poster, or if there are multiple posts, I'll do a drawing. Also, in your comment, let me know if you plan to mail this to someone. It fits a standard A2 envelope (but barely). If you are going to mail it, you won't have to add extra postage with an A2 though. If you aren't going to mail it, I'll send you a larger envelope.

Technostampers Monday Lunch Sketch

2009-04-20T07:16:00.003-05:00

Here I am with more flowers....it must be spring fever :). It's still mostly dreary and cold in Wisconsin, but little bits of green are peaking through.

You can see sketch details on Mary Jo's blog, and play along too.

I'm a color lover. Hardly ever will I make a card using pastels. I love bright colors and/or rich, deep colors. Especially when I am using flowers.

I pulled this stamp set out for another project, but since I just love the poppy flower, ended up making 4 other cards with it.

The poppies are stamped with staz-on onto watercolor paper, and colored with re-inkers. This is my current favorite way to watercolor. I say current, because I also love to use watercolor crayons, but right now the crayons have been getting a little rest :).

Enough blathering and on to the card:

The background was made using a Big Shot texture plate. To be honest, I just lucked out having the River Rock layer's texture match up with the red texture. Love it when that happens though!

All Supplies SU:

Set: Bloomin' Beautiful

Cardstock: Textured River Rock, black, red riding hood, watercolor paper,

Ink: Staz-on, red riding hood, tangering tango, summer sun, old olive, garden green

Hoot Hoot

2009-04-18T07:02:00.003-05:00

I just love these little guys. They look like you could just grab them and give them a big squeeze! The sayings that come with this stamp set are adorable too. Hoot-hoot hooray...cracks me up!

This is a fun birthday card, that I've made for a few different people. Each of the owls are stamped on the branch, and then the hats need to be added. On this card, the owls are on watercolor paper, andthey are colored with re-inkers. Again, with the watercoloring :) Yes, I love it!

I used a piece of designer paper for the scalloped edge to add a little more *funness!* What I really think is great about this card is the fact that there is no age limit to it. Sure a kid would love it, but there are plenty of fun loving adults that would appreciate the card as well.

All supplies SU:
Set: Owl Together Now
Cardstock: Chocolate chip, baja breeze, kiwi kiss, watercolor paper
Ink: Chocolate chip, close to cocoa, creamy caramel, tangering tango, real red, baja breeze, kiwi kiss

Flight of the Butterfly

2009-04-16T06:30:00.001-05:00

Don't you just love butterflies? They are bright, colorful and seem to represent a free spirit. I saw an idea similar to this on splitcoast a while back it has stayed with me. I finally had a chance to try it out.

I used many different butterflies from different stamp sets, some current, some not. I stamped them on different pieces of designer paper, cut each one out, and then mounted them with dimensionals.

The white background is textured with a Big Shot Texture plate.

Happy Thursday!

Etsy Connection Newsletter

2009-04-15T12:10:00.002-05:00

I'm so excited! I'm going to be one of the feature artists in the Etsy Connection newsletter tomorrow. There are 5 artists from Etsy featured each week. I'll post the newsletter on Friday if I can.

To sign up for the newsletter, go here. Click on the link posted in the blog. The blog has some sample newsletters for you to see, but you will be signing up for an actual newsletter that is emailed to you. (Note: when you sign up, it may say that you are signing up for an IT newsletter, but don't despair, you are actually singing up for Etsy Connection. They also publish an IT newsletter).

I Love Hydrangeas

2009-04-15T06:30:00.001-05:00

Hydrangeas are some of my favorite flowers! I'm lucky enough to have a number of them around the yard too. We have blue ones, pink ones and white ones. I can't wait to see them again this year.

I used some new photo software and I think the colors might be a little off on this picture. The background is brocade blue, but it looks a little more purpley here.

I stamped the words on the pot, stamped the flowers on watercolor paper, and cut them out before mounting them on the pot. The background is textured and then sanded. Even though the cardstock doesn't have a white core, it still brings the texture out a little bit more when it's sanded.

All supplies SU.

ETA: I figured out the colors on the photo software. I changed the picture, and this one is more true to the real card.

Have a great Wednesday!

Negative Image

2009-04-14T06:30:00.000-05:00

This was a little bit of an expirement. You can ink up the texture plates and then when you run them through the Big Shot, your impressed image is white with a colored background. So, I thought I would try the same thing with the embossing folder. The ink doesn't take to the folder as well, but it's still a neat look.

The cardstock almost has a textured look to it, and the embossed flowers really stand out.

I didn't want to do too much else to the card, since there is such a large focal image. It's simple, yet elegant.

All supplies SU:

Set: It's your Birthday

Cardstock: White, Baja Breeze, Pacific Point

Inks: Baja Breeze, Pacific Point

Technostamper Monday Sketch Challenge

2009-04-13T06:30:00.002-05:00

I found this sketch a little bit tricky for some reason. I actually made a couple of attempts before I settled on this card.

I think this might be the first card I ever made that I didn't stamp a single image. The flowers on the caribbean cardstock are SU rub-ons, as are the saying and flowers on the little piece.

I'm not sure who the maker of the designer paper is. I've had the pack for quite some time. The colors go pretty well with SU's though.

I added the felt flowers at the last minute to try and bling it up a little, but not sure if I succeeded or not. You can view the details and play along on Mary Jo's blog.

Un-Spotlighted

2009-04-10T07:02:00.001-05:00

I had so much fun watercoloring the rose from Fifth Avenue Floral in the post below, that I made another one. Only this time, I didn't spotlight, I watercolored the whole thing.

It's just starting to warm up here in Wisconsin, and I see that some of our rose bushes are barely starting to sprout out. I get so excited to see color outside this time of year.

The rose is stamped on watercolor paper, and colored with re-inkers. I always start with the lightest color (0ften I wash the entire image with a gold or light yellow), and then work up to the darker colors. The last step is to add accents of dark color for shading and depth.

All supplies SU:

Set: Fifth Avenue Floral

Ink: Staz-on, So Saffron, Tangerine Tango, Red Riding Hood

Cardstock: Vanilla, Red Riding Hood, Black, Bella Rose DSP, Watercolor paper

Spotlighting

2009-04-09T06:30:00.000-05:00

I was gone most of the day today, but took a few minutes when I got home to make a card. The layout is todays SCS Sketch Challenge, and I knew right away it would be a perfect layout for a technique called spotlighting.

For this technique, you only color part of an image, to really spotlight it. I really love watercoloring this rose from the Fifth Avenue Floral set. There are so many different color combinations you can use with it.

I textured the Kiwi Kiss with the distressed texture plate. I actually did it twice, turning it 90 degrees for the 2nd run-through.

All Supplies SU:

Set: Fifth Ave Floral

Cardstock: Vanilla, Watercolor Paper, Kiwi Kiss, Black, Bella Rosa DSP

Ink: Red Riding Hood, Tangerine Tango, Kiwi Kiss

Kiwi/Vanilla Satin Ribbon

In a Field

2009-04-08T06:30:00.000-05:00

I was making a different card with these die cut butterflies, and realized that I had cut out the wrong size. Well, I love these die cuts, and couldn't just throw them away, so I had to come up a new card to use these on.

I'll admit, the butterfly body was not my original idea at all. SU did the same thing on the cover of their last catalog (but their card is completely different).

This butterfly is floating through a field of prairie flowers :)

All supplies SU:
Set: Pocket Silhouettes

Cardstock: Regal Rose, white, sweet always DSP

Ink: Regal Rose, Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Chip

Accessories: Hat pin, beads, wire

Kindred Spirts

2009-04-07T06:30:00.000-05:00

I wanted to do one more card with Mary Jo's Monday Sketch (see post below for sketch details, and a link to her blog if you want to play along).

I just love butterflies. They can be whimsical or beautiful, depending on what you match them with. I used the Friends Always wheel for my background, and just lucked out that Kindred Spirits and True Friend show up around the butterflies. (love it when that happens)

The butterflies are die cut. I sponged the edges of the largest to "age" it a little. The butterflies are raised with dimensionals as well.

TSSC Monday Sketch Challenge

2009-04-06T08:24:00.005-05:00

When I saw Mary Jo's Technostamper Monday Sketch Challenge, I knew there were a lot of things that could be done with it.

What I really wanted though, was something that would POP right out at you. I tend to go for florals, so grabbed my Fifth Avenue Floral stamp set, and stamped the flowers on watercolor paper. I watercolored them with re-inkers, cut them out, and adhered them with dimensionals, so they would really stand out.

I love how this card turned out. It's even better in real life. All Supplies SU:

Set: Fifth Ave. Floral

Carstock: White, Basic Black, Bella Blossom DSP, Watercolor Paper

Ink: Staz-on, Red Riding Hood, Tangerine Tango, Kiwi Kiss, Pink Pirouette

Here's a close up of the flowers:

Sketch Challenge

2009-04-04T07:30:00.000-05:00

This was an SCS sketch challenge a while back. You cut out a circle, and then cut it in quarters. You only use 2 of the quarter on the card.

I love these colors together: red riding hood, kiwi kiss and chocolate chip. There is a tad of summer sun in the center of the flowers too.

I stamped the flowers on white and then stamped them again on another piece of paper. I cut out just the blooms and then adhered them to the card with small pieces of dimensionals. It is so much more life like with the raised portion.

The paper is Raspberry Tart which is a current favorite of mine. I say current, because that changes often. There are so many great papers to choose from!

Stamp Set: Le Jardin Botanique

Bloom

2009-04-03T06:30:00.001-05:00

I had this flower laying around and knew it was too pretty to throw away, so thus, another card is born :)

Sometimes all a card need is a simple layout to really showcase the stamped image. I tried adding a few other things, and it all looked off. The focal point is so large, that it needed to stand alone, without other embellishments.

The flower is raised, and the center is raised a second time.

All supplies SU:

Set: Fabulous Flowers

Cardstock: Ruby Red, chocolate chip, white, dsp

Ink: rugy red, pumpkin pie, chocolate chip

Celebrate

2009-04-02T12:23:00.003-05:00

Kerry's blog challenge this week is : Eat it! (Are you singing Michael Jackson's Beat It now? I am) The card must have some sort of food on it.

I immediately thought of Chef Pierre from Viola. This guy is so fun! You can dress him up any which way and he never complains either :).

I paper pieced his jacket with Bella Rosa DSP, watercolored his pants with Kiwi Kiss and added a little shadowing with Bordering Blue Watercolor.

His neck kerchief and sleeve cuff are raised, as is the cupcake. The candle says "Celebrate." Since I am listing this on my Etsy shop, I didn't want to add any other type of saying, so the buyer can use it for whatever type of Celebration.

Check out Kerry's blog if you want to play along!

Sparkle

2009-04-02T06:30:00.000-05:00

Once again I find myself with little flakes of sparkle and shine on my face, hands, shirt, etc. That's what happens when I use glitter. I once heard someone say, that before you add glitter to a card, you should just wipe some on your face and get it over with :)

This layout is the Splitcoast Sketch Challenge for the week. Fun and simple.

The card says "Happy Birthday, Someone like you should be celebrated every day."

I haven't used Pick a Petal in a long time, and had fun with it. It's really an easy set to use. When I was done, I just knew the card needed *something,* and thus the glitter!

All supplies SU:

Sets: Pick a Petal, It's Your Birthday

Cardstock: Gable Green, Tempting Turquoise, White, Rainbow Sherbert DSP

Ink: Green Galore, Tempting Turquoise

Apricot Grosgrain

Manahattan Floral

2009-04-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

I bought this texture folder a little while back, but haven't really used it yet. I pulled it out today thinking I would use it as a background piece, but once I saw how pretty it is on it's own, I know I couldn't cover it up with something else.

This was one of the quickest and easiest cards I have done in a long, long time, but really, I think if I added anything else to it, it would take away from the embossed flowers.

The sizzix texture folders are so easy to use, and they give a very deep, crisp image.

All supplies Stampin' Up:

Stamps: Best Yet

Cardstock: Red Riding Hood, White, Black

Ink: Black

Accessories: Red Riding Hood Satin Ribbon, Manhattan Floral Texture Folder

Natural Beauty

2009-03-31T06:30:00.001-05:00

I had to make one more card with this set since I had it out. This is a very simple card, and layout. I think this would make a great Mother's Day card.

I actually stamped the watercolored flowers on Naturals White Cardstock, since that is a more absorbant white, and able to take the extra water used while watercoloring. It just didn't look right next to the larger piece of Whisper White cardstock, so I cut the flower out and glued it to the stamped whisper white. I think I like it better this way with the other flowers behind it anyway.

All supplies SU:

Set: Natual Beauty

Cardstock: Pink Pirouette, Red Riding Hood, White

Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Pink Pirouette, Red Riding Hood

Technostampers Monday Lunchtime Sketch

2009-03-30T06:30:00.001-05:00

I don't know how Mary Jo does it, but she always comes up with great ideas for her weekly sketch challenges.

I think sketch challenges are my favorite type of challenge too. It's just enough of a jumping off point to get me started on a card, but there are no other limits to it.

This is a new stamp set from the upcoming Occasions Mini called Sense of Time. Very easy to use, and great for a masculine card!

I added a Father's Day saying to the inside of this card.

Here's Mary Jo's sketch. You can check out the details and play along on her blog.

All supplies SU:
Set: Sense of Time
Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Chocolate Chip, DSP
Ink: Baja Breeze, Chocolate Chip
Brads are non-SU

Mother's Day

2009-03-28T07:41:00.002-05:00

Mother's Day might not seem so close, but it will be here before we know it! I had to get some Mom's cards made and loaded up to my Etsy shop and thought I would share.

I've always loved this cute, whimsical stamp set. It never made it into SU's big catalog, just the mini, but I'm glad I hung on to it.

I colored the image with markers to make it vibrant. I don't often color with markers, as I usually prefer the softer look of watercoloring, but this one needed to pop out I thought.

All supplies SU, except the patterned paper:

Set: When I grow up

Cardstock: Brocade Blue, White, Night of Navy, Real Red

Ink: Creamy Caramel, Close to Cocoa, Really Rust, Brocade Blue, Real Red, Gable Green

Red Grosgrain, not sure who made the patterned paper

Have a great weekend!

Happy Birthday Kerry Card #2

2009-03-27T07:00:00.003-05:00

You can see more information about this challenge in the post below.

This is card #2 for Kerry's weekly blog challenge. The parameters this week were:

*A Birthday card

*Using the color Purple

*With Glitter

I inked up one of my sizzix texture folders with Lovely Lilac ink and then ran it through the Big Shot with the cardstock in it. The embossed image shows up white and the rest of the cardstock picks up the ink. The glitter is on the little polka dots of the paisley.

All Supplies SU:

Sets: Polka Dot and Paisley, Happy Everything

Cardstock: White, Orchic Opulance

Ink: Orchid, Lavender Lace, Lovely Lilac

Happy Birthday Kerry- Card #1

2009-03-26T11:00:00.007-05:00

I've never actually met Kerry, but she has been a cyber-friend for a number of years now. She invited me to join an online swap group when she started it, and we've gotten to know each other through the group.

Her birthday is coming up, and so for her weekly blog challenge (check it out if you want to play), she asked us to make:

**A Birthday Card

**With the color Purple

**And Glitter

All of her favorite things :). So this is for you Kerry!

I have to tell you, while I do like glitter (I even bought some in my last order), I really, really do not like working with it. It's ends up on everything, including me!

I made 2 cards for this challenge, but since I have a busy few days ahead of me and may not be able to make anything new, I am not going to post the 2nd card until tomorrow.

All Supplies SU:

Sets: Polks Dots and Paisley, Happy Everything

Cardstock: Almost Amethyst, Lovely Lilace, White

Ink: Almost Amethyst, Lovely Lilac, Gable Green

Accessories: Sizzix Folder (non-SU), ribbon

Pink Polka Dot Boots

Monday Lunchtime Sketch

Technostamper's 100th Sketch

Blogging Break

TSSC97--Sort of

Sense Of Time

Embossed Snowflakes

She Keeps Me Going

Mini Thank You Notes

One of My Favorites

Mini Notes

Batik Snowflakes

It Looks So Simple

Fall Leaves

Highlighting

And Weddings

Babies

Man Card #2

Man Card #1

She Gets Me With Another Circle

Bright Birthday

More Post It Note Holders

Post It Note Holders

Pumpkins

Holiday Cards Are On Sale

Done!

Tomatoes

Back Into The Swing of Things

Thinking Fall

What Inspires Me

Happy Card

Technostamper's Monday Sketch

Slight Variation to MJ's Sketch

Technostamper's Sketch 83

Firecracker Flowers

Monday Sketch Challenge

Set of 4 Cards

Technostampers Monday Sketch

I Am In Love!

Not At All About Cards...

On Summer Break

One Last Gift

A Cute Pen Make Writing Fun!

It's a Frame, It's a Pen with Paper, It's a....

Bluebird

Deals To Be Had and New Gift Section

Erika's Design

YART Sale on Etsy

Many Things Were Accomplished Today

Slowin' Down

Retro

Technostamper's Monday Sketch

Daughter's Thank You Note

All Aboard

Technostamper's Monday Sketch

I'm Way Late

Thank You Notes

I'm Back

I'm not sure why....

Happiness is a Journey

A Few of My Favorite Things

More Rubber Boots

Technostampers Monday Lunchtime Sketch

Funky Daisy

Happy Birthday To Me

Last Weeks Splitcoast Sketch

Technostampers Monday Sketch Challenge 5/4

Made by a 10 year old

Three Clovers Thursday Sketch Challenge

I've been reviewed

New Baby

Kwernerdesign's 50th Color Challenge

Summer

Technostampers Monday Challenge

Three Clovers Thursday Challenge

Wedding Card

A *Green* Challenge

Technostampers Monday Lunch Sketch

Hoot Hoot

Flight of the Butterfly

A Green Challenge