Confessions of a Ribbon Addict

You Make Me Happy

2012-01-25T10:12:00.001-07:00

Pin ItHi all and thanks so much for stopping by today. I have a quick and easy card for this week's MFT Wednesday Stamp Club 56.

I kept the focus on the Fringed Perennial Die-namics and added a small sentiment from Clearly Sentimental about You. I layered the panel containing the flower with the Open Scallop Doily Duo Die-namics, added plenty of layers and stitching, and topped it off with black brads to make every layer POP.

Remember, you can get all the details by visiting the MFT Blog and the MFT forum on SCS (look for the most recent WSC thread). You'll need to upload your card in the SCS gallery using the keyword shown on the sketch. You will have the chance to win up to $20 in MFT money. One winner is chosen at random each week!

Go get sketchy with MFT!

Elegant Single Cupcake Box - A Photo Tutorial

2012-01-24T09:57:00.000-07:00

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Hello all and welcome to the MFT/Scor-Pal Blog Hop. We have teamed up with the Scor-Pal design team to bring you projects that incorporate both MFT Stamps and Die-namics, and the wonderful products from Scor-Pal. Head on over to the MFT Blog for a complete list of participating designers from both MFT and Scor-Pal. There are a couple prizes along the way, so be sure to comment for your chance to win a prize.

For my project, I revisited a Single Cupcake Box that I created MANY years ago (you can see it HERE). A lot has changed, including my scoring tool of choice, so I wanted to re-do, improve, and use all the nifty tools that make stampy life easier.

My first version of the cupcake box was very "cute", so this time I wanted to add an elegant touch. I found exactly what I was looking for in the MFT Rolled Rose and MFT Large Rolled Rose. I die-cut many of them in coordinating patterned paper from Prima and assembled a bunch of them. I also cut a ton of leaves from Upsy Daisy and a couple Leafy Flourishes, which ended up being mostly covered up with the flowers. The sentiment is from Tag, You're It and was stamped on the large Fishtail Banner from First Place Award Ribbon (I cut off one end).

I created a "cupcake liner" by scoring kraft card stock every 1/4", accordion folding, and then placing it in the cupcake "well". You could also add an actual cupcake, but I didn't make any, so I filled it with fancy "Chocolate from Around the World" instead. The top of the insert was decorated with a patterned paper strip and the word "sweet" stamped with the Monogram Alphabet.

I made a window using my curvy cutter, and added some heavy acetate to "seal" the box after cutting the hole out. All the roses are glued down with hot glue to keep them in place. I tucked leaves in all around the roses to add some detail.

The inside of the box is lined with patterned paper to add a decorative touch. I also decorate the rim of the lid with the green gingham patterned paper.

I'm not sure I would actually WANT to put a cupcake in this, because I wouldn't want it to get dirty and messed up, BUT that IS it's intended purpose. :) LOL Chocolate is safer. LOL WRAPPED chocolate that is. :)
Here are the dimensions of the pieces, as well as measurements for scoring the Single Cupcake Box:
Cupcake Box Base

Cut to 10 1/2 X 10 1/2
Score along all 4 sides at 3"
Cut along score lines on opposite sides, cut notches on both sides of each flap
Assemble box
If you'd like to line the inside of your box, cut 4 pieces to 2 7/8 X 4 3/8 and adhere inside box

Cupcake Box Lid

Cut to 8 X 8
Score along all 4 sides at 1 5/8
Cut 3" hole in center of lid using a Curvy Cutter
Add a piece of acetate to the inside of the lid to cover hole
Cut along score lines on opposite sides, cut notches on both sides of each flap
Assemble lid
If you'd like to decorate the outer edge of your box lid, cut 4 pieces to 4 1/2 X 1 1/2 and adhere to flaps of lid

Cupcake Box Insert

Cut to 6 1/2 X 6 1/2
Score along all sides at a little more than 1" (1 inch was too tight, and I had to go back in and adjust my score lines a bit - you can do this by moving your paper around on the Scor-Pal and eye-balling 1+ a little inch
Cut 2 1/4 hole in center of insert (will accommodate cupcake)
Cut out the squares on the corner, and also notch the 2 sides of each remaining flap
Fold in and place in box - It should be snug

Decorate your Single Cupcake Box!

Here is a tutorial, complete with pictures. Use the dimensions listed above. Photos are to show you how it looks during the process, every step along the way.

This is my awesome Scor-Pal, which I use every time I stamp! Start with the base of the box and score it along all 4 sides at 3".

Cut along score lines on opposing sides like this.

Cut a notch from each side of each flap (8 total notch cuts). This helps you to assemble the box without having edges from the flap showing.

Cut patterned paper to use as a liner for the cupcake box inside walls.

Adhere patterned paper only to the areas shown, if you want to line the inside of the box to make it cuter.

Add adhesive to flaps as shown.

Assemble box by folding in flaps, very carefully. Be sure to maintain the proper box shape when sticking down flaps.

Add the other 2 patterned paper panels to the inside of the box, to cover the flaps you just stuck down.

Now, score the lid along all sides at 1 5/8.

To score at 1 5/8" on the Scor-Pal, move your paper over 1/8" (to match up with the first groove), and then score at 1 3/4, as shown here:

Cut a 3" circle out of the lid. I use the Curvy Cutter.

Cut a piece of acetate to cover the inside of the lid. I cut it to 4 1/4 X 4 1/4. Put adhesive around the edges of the acetate and adhere to the INSIDE of the lid.

Cut along opposing score lines.

Notch-cut each flap as you did for the box base.

Cut 2 pieces of patterned paper to decorate lid sides.

Put red line tape on flaps as shown.

Assemble lid.

Score insert, which will accommodate a cupcake. Score each line a little MORE than 1". 1" was a little too snug. (instructions above with dimensions)

Cut 2 1/4" circle out of insert as shown.

Cut out entire square on each corner, as well as an extra notch on each side of each flap, as shown.

Stamp and decorate insert, then put in box. It should be snug, but not too tight.

I added some patterned paper to the outside of the box edge as shown, just to add a little detail.

Here is the finished, "naked" box.

I decorated the lid with lots of Rolled Roses, Large Rolled Roses, Leafy Flourishes, and leaves from Upsy Daisy, along with a sentiment from Tag, You're It, stamped on a fishtail banner from First Place Award Ribbon.

Here, you get a peek of both the inside, and the lid of the box. Fill the box with a cupcake, candy, or anything else you'd like. :)

Thanks for joining MFT and Scor-Pal today! Be sure to visit all the participating designers and leave comments for your chance to win one of the prizes. You'll find the complete list on the MFT Blog. :)

If you use my tutorial, kindly link back to my blog post. Thank you. :) Have a wonderful day and I'll see you tomorrow with a card creation.

friend - WSC 55

2012-01-18T10:00:00.003-07:00

Pin ItHi all and thanks for stopping by today! I have a sweet and simple card for today's MFT Wednesday Stamp Club 55! I am aiming to participate in all 52 challenges again, this year. I hope you'll be playing along as well! :)

I used my new Crate Patterned Paper, and decided to pair it with the Monogram Alphabet to spell out "friend". I grabbed some Stampin' Up inks in coordinating colors and stamped them out on a light pattern from the pack. I added some zig zag stitching along the top and bottom.

I stacked some Prima flowers from my stash with a SU button and some twine.

Here is this week's sketch!

Always in Harmony

2012-01-17T20:00:00.002-07:00

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Hi all and thanks for stopping by today! It's time for the MFT VIP! It is SUPER sweet and once again includes 2 adorable Pure Innocence stamp sets, the NEW Monarch Border Die-namics and a FREE stamp set valued at $9, Classic Kids Sentiments. HURRY and buy one if you want it, because last month they sold out in record time. Get yours HERE.

My card uses one of the included stamp sets, Violin Girl. She is just SO sweet!

I used patterned papers from October Afternoon with a vintage feel. She is colored with Copic markers and her dress is paper-pieced. The flower was cut from a tiny kraft bag, and the button on top is an accessory that matches the paper pack.

I tied the bow with my Bow-Easy (love that thing).

Here is a peek inside.

Here is what you get in the Classic Kids VIP Collection:

Thanks for stopping by today! Be sure to head over to Kim's blog, where you'll find a complete, linked list of all participating designers.

See you tomorrow for Wednesday Stamp Club!

Doll - MFT WSC 54

2012-01-11T10:00:00.001-07:00

Pin ItI was SO excited to play along with MFT WSC this week, because I had been dying to use this new Pure Innocence stamp set, Paper Dolls. She is SO cute! And the Paper Doll Die-namics die... ummm SO cool! LOVE it.

Paper dolls are near and dear to my heart. I remember my grandmother making them for me when I was a little girl. I imagine they looked a lot like these. *memories*

I was feeling sentimental, and this October Afternoon patterned paper added *just* the vintage touch I was looking for. This one's for you, Grandma! :)

I used my fave flower, Fringed Perennial, and added a strip of Paper Dolls Die-namics. SO adorable.

I paper-pieced her dress. She is colored with Copic markers.

I added this little clothespin, a gift from Joanne, in the upper left area of the card. It needed *just a little something*. :)

I used the pole from Mini Pennants a new pennant from the Mini Wavy Pennants Die-namics.

Click on any of the graphics to be linked to that product in the MFT Boutique. :)

InLinkz.com

MFT DT Creative Challenge - Masculine

2012-01-09T22:00:00.009-07:00

Hi all and thank you for stopping by today. As I mentioned above, it is time for this month's MFT DT Creative Challenge and I made my best attempt at making a masculine card. As someone who loves the color pink, I find this exceedingly difficult. I made an honest attempt, though. LOL

I ripped stuff
I used a wooden button
I used canvas, and left the edges "raw"
I curled up patterned paper
I used linen thread... it just looks manly
I did some "unfinished" stitching - that's manly, right?
Did I mention I ripped stuff?

Ok, enough with trying to convince you... here is my "manly" creation:

I used this month's Triple Scoop stamp set, Clearly Sentimental about Romance. You can earn it free with a $60 purchase! I used a wooden button by Prima and threaded it with linen thread. The canvas heart is a gift from Joanne Basile. It's "pre-fab" (comes that way). I distressed the edges a little to make it more manly. Under that is a kraft envelope (also a gift from Joanne) and I stuck a piece of distressed patterned paper in it, just for a little added detail... and to make it more manly. LOL

I added some "not pristine" stitching and a linen thread "X".

And I DID mention I ripped stuff, right? LOL

Ok, now go forth and be manly... errrr... make a pretty card with a masculine touches. If I can do it, you can too! :)

Thanks for stopping by today!

Don't forget to check out the MFT Blog so you can see what the rest of the team came up with. :)

Happy New Year - WSC 53

2012-01-04T10:00:00.010-07:00

Happy New Year! I hope you celebrated New Year's Eve surrounded by people you love.

I wanted to kick off this year's MFT Wednesday Stamp Club with a card that is fitting for the occasion. I whipped out Pure Innocence Cause for Celebration and Fringe Perennials Die-namics (which I am in love with). The leaves are from the Upsy Daisy Die-namics using green felt, and the sentiment was stamped on a die from the First Place Award Ribbon Die-namics die set.

She was colored with Copic markers and paper-pieced with patterned paper from the MME paper pad I used.

Here is a close-up of the gorgeous Fringed Perennial flower. I LOVE this die! It's SO dimensional and beautiful. I adhered a Swarovski crystal to the center to add a little pizazz.

Here is a peek inside. I used another of the sentiments from the stamp set.

Here is the sketch for this week:

InLinkz.com

Laugh When You Can...

2012-01-03T20:00:00.022-07:00

Hi all and welcome to the MFT January Release New Product Tour. ALL the Brand Spankin' New products we've been ~~teasing you with~~ showing you over the past 7 days are available NOW, right HERE.

In need of advice or words of encouragement? Pearls of Wisdom, is just what you need. Pearls of Wisdom is an amazing assortment of sweet sentiments.

I used lots of layers and accents on this card. From the back, forward, I used crochet trim, the Oval Open Scallop Doily, pink bling, Clearly Sentimental Label Die-namics with a piece from the Layered Label Die-namics, and finally a flower made with the Fringed Perennial Die-namics die. I stacked a fuzzy Prima flower on top of it, and added a vanilla brad to the center.

I love that the Fringed Perennial Die-namics die cuts AND adds cool embossed features.

Happy Shopping!

Don't forget to spend $60 and add the Triple Scoop Set to your cart!

Want to see what the rest of the team came up with using the newest stamps and dies? Click on over to the MFT Blog to take a tour of all that is new.

Mini Movie Box Tutorial (Video) - Die-namics Feature

2012-01-02T22:00:00.016-07:00

Now that we've teased and tempted you all week long, it's almost time for you to shop for your favorite Brand Spankin' New products from MFT.

But first... it's time for our Die-namics Feature and Pre-Release Pep Rally!

Our Design Team has been busy creating jaw-dropping and inspiring projects for you, and we've saved the best for last.

We've taken an in-depth look at this month's Die-namics, while re-visiting the amazing sets being released tonight at 10 PM EST RIGHT HERE in the MFT Boutique.

And while we are at it, how about we make your life even easier with a "cheat sheet" of all that's new? Head over to the MFT Blog to print out a shopping list.

I am SUPER excited about the soon-to-be-released At the Movies Die-namics and Stamp Set. Every time I stamp, I watch a movie. I used to be a "music stamper", but about 3 years ago we had a space 19" flat screen with an included DVD player and I decided I wanted it for my stamp room. Ever since then, I am excited to buy movies so I can watch them, which gives me an excellent reason to stamp! :)

I've had this idea floating around in my head for a while now, and am SO excited with how it turned out. Before I get in to it, let me show you my Mini Movie Box, complete with box of candy, drink slot, and FELT POPCORN.

I created a VIDEO to show you how to create the Mini Movie Box. I also include cutting and scoring dimensions in the video, as well as within this post. To watch the video click HERE or click the "play" button on the embedded video below.

I used the At the Movies Die-namics and Stamp Set to decorate the front of the Mini Movie Box, and the candy box.

I made plenty of felt popcorn to fill my Mini Movie Box. To learn how to create the popcorn, view the video above. :)

I just ADORE the mini Movie Popcorn Box die and stamps found in the At the Movies stamp set. You can create cute, detailed popcorn boxes, very easily. Isn't that movie projector adorable?

Here is a look at my unconventional candy box. I filled it with Almond Joy Bits (kinda like m&ms). It is decorated with the Mini Film Strip and stamps from the At the Movies stamp set. I love the little numbers. Here, I am counting down to the start of the movie. 9, 8, 7, 6. :)

Here are the dimensions and scoring directions for the Mini Movie Box, which can also be found in the video above.

Mini Movie Box

Base: 8 1/2 X 10 1/2
Score: score each side at 1 1/4 and 2 3/4

Side (bumper): 2 15/16 X 3 3/4
Score: 1/4, 1 3/4, 2, 3 1/2

Cup/Candy Holder: 6 X 6
Score (side 1): 1, 2 1/2, 4 1/2
Score (side 2): 1 1/2, 4 1/2

Candy Box: 4 X 4
Score (side 1): 1/2, 1 3/4, 2 1/4, 3 1/2
Score (side 2): 1/2, 3 1/2

For directions on assembly, please watch the video.

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I wanted to make one more card with this set while I had it out. I made a card for my soon-to-be-12 year old daughter (my baby... how can that number be correct?).

I used the large, film strip frame Die-namics die included with the set to frame the greeting. The arrow is also a stamp from the stamp. I ADORE the "lights" font in this set. SO fitting. I used the small numbers to stamp the number 12 and framed them in the previously released Mini Film Strip Die-namics.

Here is that little projector again. SUCH a cute die.

Here are some ways you can combine the stamp set and die set:

Here is a look at the At the Movies Die-namics and Stamp Set. It's a HUGE 6 X 8 set with SO many dies, and so many possibilities. I give it 2 thumbs up! :)

Here are the details about the upcoming release on February 7th at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on February 7th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on February 7th at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
You have just a few more hours to submit your entry for this month's guest designer contest. Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the designers' posts for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on February 7th just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

You're Just Plane Amazing

2012-01-01T22:00:00.008-07:00

Hello all and thanks for stopping by today! It's day 6 (of 7) of MFT Teaser Time, and a fan favorite - Pure Innocence Teaser day! Each month, these cuties melt my heart and the new Plane Amazing stamp set is no exception.

I wanted to make her a military pilot, with flair. She IS a girl after all...

I went in with a very specific idea about how the card was going to look and what supplies to use. I was dead-set on using the adorable map patterned paper from Pink Paislee and I was doubly dead-set on using the adorable dog tag embellishments. There is a CUTE story behind them, so read on...

I like the play on words for the sentiment. I wanted to add a bit of a "mechanical" feel, so I studded the sentiment panel with teeny brads (Michaels - they come in a metallic variety pack - TIP: pay your children to sort them for you so you have all the silver brads together. It makes life easier and they like cash!)

She is colored with Copic markers. I stamped her a second time, colored her flight goggles, and adhered them with thin glue dots to add a bit of dimension to them.

Here are the adorable dog tag embellishments. I used the tags that read "beauty" and "forever". My hubby said they didn't really "fit" the look of the card, but I maintain that female pilots can be girly (right, Karen M.?).

Speaking of my hubby... let me tell you the story of these adorable dog tag embellishments. My family and I took a trip to Disneyland about 4 years ago. On the drive home, I really wanted to visit the store Recollections, but it was an hour out of the way. My hubby said he didn't mind and found his way there. I LOVED the store. There was stuff EVERYWHERE. My hubby followed me as I looked around. There were quite a few things that caught my eye. If I thought it was REALLY cute and was considering buying it, I would take it off the shelf and check the price. The dog tags came in a metal tin with quite a few of them and it was $20. As cute as they were, I couldn't bring myself to buy them, so I put them back on the shelf. This went on for probably an hour, and by the time I was ready to check out, I had maybe $20 worth of stuff. As I was about to pay, hubby says to the cashier, "wait, please add this stuff also", and proceeds to grab item after item out of his cargo shorts pockets and lay them on the counter. EVERYTHING I said was cute went in his pockets. One of those items was the sweet dog tags. Hubby said he wanted the trip to be worth it, and I probably wouldn't ever be there again so he wanted me to have everything I wanted. Just typing it out makes me teary-eyed all these years later. :) Wasn't that sweet of him?

I added Sakura Clear Glaze Pen to her flight goggles. The chain for the dog tags was purchased some time ago at a local stamp store.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on January 3rd at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on January 3rd from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on January 3rd at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on January 3rd just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Make a Wish

2011-12-31T22:00:00.013-07:00

Hi all and welcome to day 5 of MFT Teaser Time. Today, I am granting you a wish with the new à la modes stamp set, Genie. She is super cool and ~~sexy~~ cute in her sheer genie pants, holding her genie lamp, and wearing her hair in a genie-esque pony tail.

I know I have mentioned this before, but I have an aversion to gold. I felt like her lamp and pony tail holder should be gold, but I couldn't make myself do it. LOL So, I colored them "goldfish" in mustard and brown tones, and added some highlight glitter to the top of the genie lamp for some added pizazz. I chose this patterned paper because of the rich purple tones. For me, Genie = purple. LOL

The sentiment was stamped on the Mini File Tab Die-namics. I used the Fringed Perennial Die-namics to create the flower and I just LOVE the detail. It's so dimensional and COOL. It's a must-have for any flower lover. :)

I drew in the "winter grass" with my Prismacolor pencils.

I wanted the sheerness of her genie pants to come across, so I first colored her legs normally, then went over them with my Copic V91 real quick to add the light purple tint. Then, I covered her bottoms with Copic Spica Clear Glitter Pen. It's a little hard to tell, but on the sections of her pants that intersect, I colored them in slightly darker, to show the "depth" of the layered material.

Here are the dies I used for today's card:

Here are the details about the upcoming release on January 3rd at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on January 3rd from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on January 3rd at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on January 3rd just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by and I will see you tomorrow for another day of MFT Teasers!

XOXO

A Simple Hi

2011-12-30T22:00:00.007-07:00

Hi all! We are smack dab in the middle of MFT Teaser Time and today we are featuring 2 new stamp sets, Monogram Alphabet and At the Movies Die-namics and Stamp Set.

I used the Monogram Alphabet to create a clean and simple card.

I used a simple layout and some of my fave patterned papers ever. I used one of the monogram borders and stamped it in Brilliance Graphite Black ink. The "hi" was stamped using the Monogram Alphabet letters and some Stampin' Up dye ink. The coverage was AWESOME and I didn't do a thing to "prepare" my stamp. I usually just stamp it once on some scratch paper and then stamp on my card stock. I just LOVE this font. SO sweet and simple.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on January 3rd at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on January 3rd from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on January 3rd at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on January 3rd just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Life Is About Creating Yourself

2011-12-29T22:00:00.009-07:00

Hi all and thanks for stopping by today! It's MFT Teaser Time and I have a card using Pearls of Wisdom, which was last month's Triple Scoop stamp set. You still have a couple days to earn it for free. Check out the details HERE on how you can earn this set. It will be available for purchase on January 3rd at 10 PM EST with the rest of the amazing January release products.

I combined Pearls of Wisdom with several Die-namics dies: Oval Open Scallop Doily; Fringed Perennial; Layered Label.

I just love the Fringed Perennial flowers! They are so dimensional and detailed!

The Layered Label Die-namics layer SO nicely over the Oval Doilies.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on January 3rd at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on January 3rd from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on January 3rd at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on January 3rd just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Happy Retirement, Barbara Anders!

2011-12-29T21:59:00.001-07:00

Hi all! I am popping in real quick to share a card I made to help celebrate my friend, Barbara Anders, retiring! After MANY years working (20 at her current job), it's time for her to kick up her feet and lounge around all day. LOL (I'm joking, Barbara, I know you have BIG plans)

Barbara, you are super sweet, caring, and just an all-around wonderful person. I'm so happy you are retiring and can enjoy more stamping, more gardening, more cleaning, more laundry... LOL. My only regret is that you don't live closer. I could surely help you occupy some time with chick flicks, stamping, and maybe you could help me with my laundry (you SAID you like doing laundry). LOL

OK, I'm going to end my LOL fest and show you my LOL card. I searched high and low for this stamp in my sentiments drawers and was SO excited to find it! It hasn't been inked up before. It must've been just for YOU.

I used the soon-to-be-released Layered Hearts Die-namics die from MFT on this card, and threaded it with hemp.

Special thanks to Tammy Hershberger for inviting me to help celebrate Barbara's retirement. To see who else is joining in the fun, please visit Tammy's blog for a complete list of participating friends. :)

See you soon! :) XOXO

From the Heart - Layered Paper-Piecing Photo Tutorial

2011-12-28T22:00:00.014-07:00

Hi all! Today is day 2 of MFT Teaser Time. Today's featured stamp set is Bunch of Hearts Flopsey, and it's a cutie! Perfect for Valentine's Day or ANY time you want to send a bunch of love.

I used the new Mini Wavy Pennants along with the pole from the previously released Mini Pennants to anchor my greeting.

The only thing I colored on this image was the blue shadow, the ground, the cheeks, and a couple shadows on Flopsey. Flopsey was paper-pieced using Kraft card stock. I paper-pieced all the hearts using 4 different layers and I show you how to do that below.

I went for lots of dimension with the hearts.

I can't get enough of the Fringed Perennial Die-namics that was released last month. I made 2 in monochromatic colors and added a Dew Drop to the center of each.

Here is a peek inside the card:

Let me show you how I achieved the layered, paper-pieced hearts.

First, either color Flopsey or paper-piece it like I did here. I stamped the heart cluster on 4 different patterned papers and cut them out as shown. Each time you cut them out, cut out more and more hearts until you are left with a single heart. You can see the way I cut them out to the right.

First, adhere the complete bunch of hearts.

Continue to layer them as shown. I used thin, mini glue dots so they have a bit of dimension. Dimensionals is TOO much, but glue or tape is not enough, so find something in between.

Here they are, all adhered and layered. I love the dimension. Who says you should pay regular postage for ANY card? Not this chick. LOL

Here is the cool new Mini Wavy Pennants Die-namics die.

If you don't have the original Mini Pennants, you'll want to grab that also, so you have a "pole" and more pennant options.

Don't forget about one of my BFF Die-namics, Fringed Perennial. It was love at first sight for me and this die.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on January 3rd at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on January 3rd from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on January 3rd at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on January 3rd just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

You're My Type of Chick - WSC 52

2011-12-28T10:00:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone! Today is a momentous occasion. We celebrate 52 weeks of MFT Wednesday Stamp Club and I have done each and every one! Have you missed any along the way? You can print off the whole year's worth of sketches right HERE.

I hope you all enjoyed your Christmas holiday with your friends and family. I know I did! :)

Time to switch gears to hearts and love with this card using Own Your Story, Homespun Birdhouse (heart die), Hearts a Plenty Die-namics, and Simply Scallops Die-namics.

I left a lot of "~~white~~ cream space" and kept this one clean and simple.

InLinkz.com

Ooh La La

2011-12-27T22:00:00.009-07:00

Hi ladies and thanks for stopping by today! Lucky for all of us, today is day 1 of MFT Teaser Time! In 7 short days, there will be a plethora of NEW stamp sets and Die-namics available for purchase, and as usual, they are AMAZING.

We're kicking things off with Who's that Parisian Girl?. She is classy and tres chic!

I went for a classy, classic parisian look (well MY interpretation of that anyway...). I found some gorgeous patterned papers from My Mind's Eye that fit the bill! She is colored with Copic markers. After coloring the image, I stamped the small Eiffel Tower on the "ground line" to show it off in the distance. There are 2 sizes of the Eiffel Tower included in the set and for those of you who LOVE matchy-matchy... there is a matching Die-namics die in a larger size. LOVE that. (You'll see that on the inside of my card if you scroll down a bit.)

I tied my twill bow with my Bow Easy (bought mine on E-bay for $6 with free shipping).

I love the bold "I ❤ Paris" stamp that is included in the set. I went bold, and stamped it in Brilliance Graphite ink along the side of the main image panel. Check out that awesome coverage!

Here is a peek inside. I included the bold sentiment, a fun quote included in the set, and the Eiffel Tower Die-namcs. LOVE that thing. It is SO gorgeous!

*swoon*

Here is another die I used on my card, Mini Tabs Foursome.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on January 3rd at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on January 3rd from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on January 3rd at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on January 3rd just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Creative Chat - Storing embellishments

2011-12-26T22:00:00.002-07:00

It's time for the MFT Creative Chat. The My Favorite Things Design Team Creative Chat is a monthly feature, where we are challenged to explore our creative spaces and share valuable organizational methods, tools, and shopping strategies with you. You'll be able to peek into our creative spaces, ask questions, and share your own ideas in the MFT forum. This month, we were asked the following questions:

Show us how you store your embellishments.

What are your absolute favorite embellishments?

Any tips or tricks on how to use embellishments on stamped creations?

Visit Kim's Blog for a full list of designers that have taken up the challenge and get ready to delve into the minds of our creative team.

I was excited about this month's Creative Chat because I already had all my embellishments organized. Usually, these require me to do some work to get ready, but this time it was snap some pics and post. Easy peasy. :)

I created a video where I explain my embellishment organization. You can view it by clicking HERE or clicking the play button on the embedded video below (which you may not see if you are reading this post in a "reader"). For those of you who prefer photos, read on... I included MANY of those for you, too.

Let me answer the three questions posed to us before I show you my organization.

Question: What are your absolute favorite embellishments?

Answer: WOW, that is a HARD one for me. If I HAVE to choose... I would say... ummm... brads. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and a pretty versatile embellishment. I like to add them to the corners of my layers, but I also use them elsewhere on a card when I need a little something extra. A close second would have to be Swarovski Hot Fix crystals. They are easy to use, and add pizazz.

Question: Any tips or tricks on how to use embellishments on stamped creations?

Answer: Oh, let me count the ways... LOL In all seriousness, I tend to be a "cerebral stamper", more left-brained than right-brained, so I have lots of "rules" that I try to follow when stamping. Some things just should be mixed. LOL Here are a few "highlights" on how I use embellishments. Keep in mind I am SURE there are times I break my own rules, and you should craft however your heart leads you. These are general guidelines (for me).

Never mix different metal colors on a card. It's just wrong.
Don't use lots of different colors of embellishments, unless you are working in a "rainbow" palette.
Keep adding embellishments until it feels right.
If at any point, something looks "off", stop what you are doing, and try something else.

OK, now that you KNOW I am a type-A crazy lady, let's move on to the organization phase of this blog post. LOL

This is my CRYSTALS DRAWER. The majority of these are Swarovski Hot Fix crystals. One day at Michaels, I found an entire display of Swarovski Hot Fix crystals on CLEARANCE. Nothing like a large number of crystals that were originally priced at $5 and marked down to $1 each to give me a "stamper's high". There were exactly 220 packages of crystals on that display. Don't ask me why I know that. I am not exactly proud of what I did that day. LMAO In my defense, I "shared" my loot with a group of stampers, but I kept at least half of it, which is neatly organized by size and color in the Tic Tac containers shown below. (Walmart $6)

My less-obsessive ADHESIVE CRYSTALS collection is in this drawer. I only buy pink and clear. I tend to use these with sentiment-only cards.

My Prima flowers used to be a sea of assortment packs and mixed-color containers. That was NOT working for me. I would have to dump out the entire pack to find the color I was looking for and it drove me crazy. My solution was to dump EVERY pack of Prima flowers I had out, and sort them by color in separate drawers. Best. Decision. Ever.

There are my resin flowers. I don't mix these with the paper Prima flowers. As a result, I don't use them... and to be honest, I forgot I had them until I was taking this picture. LOL

Buttons. In a zillion colors. I have tried several storage solutions and this is the current one. I can't say I love it, but I can say it keeps them mostly in one place... except for the fact I needed three of these containers to house them all. And I have no room to grow... which isn't that big of a deal since I rarely use buttons. LOL If I ever spill these containers... I will FREAK OUT. LOL

These Sterlite storage drawers are directly behind where I sit and stamp. I can swivel around to reach them. These house the majority of my embellishments, which I have sorted by color. I removed nearly every embellishment I had from the original packaging and placed them in baggies. Then I tossed the baggies in the drawers, and now I can dig for what I want, and see everything I have. Love. This. Method. (Is the "single words followed by periods for impact" thing getting old? I hope not. LMBO)

There are some things I don't sort by color, including the majority of my colored "normal", "plain" brads. I keep all those together in a couple drawers. The tiny brads at the top of this picture came in assortment packs (Michaels). I LOATHE digging through assortment packs, so I paid my kids to separate them and place them in individual colors in a storage container I bought from Walmart. Think I'm crazy yet? LOL The brads and eyelets in the Tic Tac containers are from Pink Hedgehog.

Thanks for joining me for this month's MFT Design Team Creative Chat. Don't forget to head to the MFT Blog so you can see what the rest of team has in store for you. (no pun intended LOL) I'll see you tomorrow for the start of MFT Teaser Time! *YAY*

hello. hello.

2011-12-21T10:00:00.007-07:00

Hello. Hello. Just stopping by today with my card for MFT Wednesday Stamp Club #51. I used Own Your Story, Mini Tabs Foursome, and Simply Scallops Medium Die-namics to whip up this card.

I stamped the friend definition and added some elements from the set, stamped in colored ink, in a layered fashion. The "hello." sentiment was stamped on the Mini File Tab.

I found this cool red checkered button from MME in my stash and strung it with twine and adhered it with my glue gun.

InLinkz.com

Sending Smiles Across the Miles - MFT VIP

2011-12-20T20:00:00.003-07:00

Hi all and thanks for stopping by today! It's time for the MFT VIP! It is SUPER sweet and once again includes 2 adorable Pure Innocence stamp sets, the NEW Rolled Scallop Flower Die-namics and a FREE stamp set valued at $9, In the Air Sentiments. HURRY and buy one if you want it, because last month they sold out in record time. Get yours HERE.

I made a couple cards using one of the stamp sets included in the In the Air VIP Collection, Plane Amazing. This stamp set is plain amazing! I LOVE all the adorable details and the cute sentiments.

I colored her with Copic markers. It's not really showing up in pictures well, but I coated the lenses of her flight goggles with Sakura Clear Glaze Pen for a more realistic look.

I LOVE the new Rolled Scallop Flower Die-namics. It is SO cute. It has a dainty scallop and is a fresh new take on the original Rolled Flower.

I used the Mini Pennants Die-namics die to create a sentiment flag, and stamped the word "Smiles" on it, which I cut from one of the included sentiments. I LOVE the versatility of clear stamps!

Here is a peek inside. You can see I tied in the front "sentiment". The image is stamped in blue ink as a finishing touch.

I wanted to make another card with a more rustic and weathered feel. This time, I opted to stamp the image on some Kraft patterned paper (from MME), but did not color the image. The only thing I did to dress it up was add Sakura Clear Glaze Pen to the flight goggles. I just couldn't bring myself to add any color to the kraft, black, and white color combo. To add pizazz without adding color, I double-stitched the frame around the Pure Innocence pilot.

Here is the adorable Rolled Scallop Flower again. It even looks cute in kraft. *swoon*

For a more bold and crisp stamped image, use Brilliance Graphite Black pigment ink.

I used the Mini Pennants Die-namics to spell out the word "fly" and then added some twine stitches to break up the stark white addition. The word is stamped with the Typewriter Alphabet.

I think the "Cool Your Jets" sentiment is SO hilarious. I added it to the card kinda protruding out. It was needing some balance. Since I rarely mail my cards in envelopes I don't mind it sticking out.

Here is a peek inside.

Adorable, right? Here is a look at everything you get in the In the Air VIP Collection and it's a STEAL at only $25.95.

You can get yours HERE.

I made a quick video demonstrating the Rolled Scallop Flower Die-namics. View it HERE or press the PLAY button in the embedded video below. :)

Want to see what the rest of the team created with the adorable VIP Collection? Click on over to Kim's blog to take a tour of all the adorable projects.

See you soon! :)

You're Amazing

2011-12-14T10:00:00.002-07:00

You're amazing! Yes, YOU! :) Thanks for reading my blog. You make the hours I spend stamping, photographing, and blogging, worth it. :) THANK YOU.

For this week's MFT Wednesday Stamp Club #50, I used the Layered Label Die-namics and First Class Friend to create this clean and simple card.

I added several "layers" of stamps with various ink with caution, as not to make it look too busy.

Here is this week's sketch:

InLinkz.com

It's a Wrap - MFT DT Creative Challenge + VIDEO

2011-12-12T22:00:00.107-07:00

In 2011, MFT is working harder than ever to inspire you, and we have come up with something we think you'll really enjoy. Our Design Team Creative Challenge is a monthly feature, where we challenge our design team to explore their creative side using a specific theme, product or technique. This month, "It's a Wrap" Be sure to check the MFT Blog for a list of all the designers who have creative gift solutions for you today!

Hi all and thank you for stopping by today. As I mentioned above, it is time for this month's MFT DT Creative Challenge and I could not be more excited to show you the project I created. *squeal* We were challenged to create a project with the following theme:

It's a Wrap

I knew instantly what I wanted to do... I just had to figure out how to execute my idea. I have seen cute little felt or foam fortune cookies previously on the internet, and my plan was to "wrap" them in a Chinese take-out box... luckily I had a Sizzix XL die in my stash (that I don't think I had ever used). Add one super cute Pure Innocence Good Fortune stamp set, and this what you get:

I created the Chinese Take-Out box using my Sizzix die: Box, Takeout (snazzy name huh? LOL). After I had adhered it all together I realized I should have put rivets in, to secure a handle. I used a centering ruler and paper piercer to start the hole, and then gently widened it using my Cutterbee scissors until it was large enough to accommodate the rivets. I set them with my Crop-O-Dile. Two of the flaps were maimed (aka they now have an embossed circle on them) during that process, but they are hidden anyway, so it's ALL GOOD. :)

See how I cut a panel of patterned paper to layer on the box that is the exact same shape? There was a lot of math involved in that process and I'm not sure I can adequately explain in words. If anyone is interested in how to do that, leave a comment and I'll try to make a video about that. :)

I used a piece of canvas fabric I purchased from Walmart to create my Loopy Bloom flower. Once I had assembled it, I rubbed it until it was nice and frayed, gave it a "haircut" to remove any long pieces of canvas, and then admired it for a while. I just LOVE the way it looks in canvas!

I used some "rope trim" I had purchased from Stampin' Up some time ago for the handle. I'll be sad when I run out of that stuff.

Ok, it's time to coo! You ARE cooing, right? Check out these adorable felt fortune cookies. I had seen this done and couldn't resist giving it a try, myself.

Want to learn how? I made a VIDEO that you can see by clicking HERE, or clicking the "play" button in the embedded video below.

I like the fortune/greeting to slightly stick out of one end.

4 fortune cookies fit in my Take-Out Box.

I made this card to accompany my Chinese Take-Out box using the ADORABLE Pure Innocence Good Fortune stamp set. Isn't her kimono adorable? LOVE it!

I made another crazy canvas Loopy Bloom for the card.

I stamped her on Stampin' Up Naturals Ivory card stock and colored her with Copic markers. Her Kimono is paper-pieced with some fitting patterned paper and then I layered over her "sash" that I colored on an addition piece of card stock.

I stamped one of the sentiments included in the stamp set on the Mini File Tab Die-namics and then layered it in black using a trick that Joanne Basile posted HERE.

Although I shot a video showing how to make the felt fortune cookies, I want to be able to accommodate you no matter what your learning preference is, so here is the tutorial in photo format. :) (Do I get bonus points for that?)

First, I stamped 4 "fortunes" and one extra to decorate my Take-Out box with. I cut apart many of the sentiments so I could change them up and create enough to fill all 4 fortune cookies. That's the beauty of clear stamps!

Cut out 4 felt circles. Mine are sized 3 3/4" and I'm not sure it would work if the circle was much smaller. I prefer a wool-blend felt. If you use the cheap felt from Michaels it feels rough and doesn't cut very cleanly. Your fortunes need to be about the same width as the circle.

I held everything together with my handy dandy Surebonder Detail Glue Gun. You need one.

Lay your sentiment slightly below the midline of your circle.

Add some hot glue as shown here:

Fold over like this:

Grab the ends of the circle and fold in the opposite direction of where you just adhered the circle together.

Add some hot glue between the two sides that are touching here:

The fortune was sticking out too much for my liking at the "end" of the fortune:

So, I added a little more hot glue and sealed up that edge a little more.

Tada! LOVE these little things. And what's better, is that they come together in just a minute or two. You could make a TON of these (class treats?) in a short amount of time.

Here are my four fortune cookies and the decorated Take-Out box. *swoon* I just LOVE the way this all came together and it was NOT hard! :) YAY

I LOVE the Loopy Bloom and when it's paired with canvas, I SUPER love it. :)

Mini Tabs... gotta love em! Stick a sentiment ANYWHERE!

I hope you enjoyed this month's Creative Challenge! Be sure to check in next month for the next installment. We love stretching our creativity and hope you're inspired to try one of the projects you've seen today. :) Don't forget to head over to the MFT Blog to see what the rest of the team came up with. :)

See you soon!

XOXO

First Class Friend

2011-12-07T10:00:00.002-07:00

It's time for another MFT Wednesday Stamp Club and it was a perfect fit for First Class Friend Die-namics and Stamp Set. I went scrappy and came up with this pretty in pink (and red) card.

I used one of my favorite stamp sets, First Class Friend Die-namics and Stamp Set. I die-cut the frame and mini postage stamp from the Die-namics set. The heart is from the Notched Tag Die-namics and I cut it from red felt. The embellishments are some glittered "Skittles".

InLinkz.com

Kiss Slowly, Forgive Quickly

2011-12-06T20:00:00.013-07:00

Hi all and welcome to the MFT December Release New Product Tour. ALL the Brand Spankin' New products we've been ~~teasing you with~~ showing you over the past 7 days are available NOW, right HERE.

In need of advice or words of encouragement? This month's Triple Scoop Stamp Set, Pearls of Wisdom, is just what you need. MFT generously offers you a FREE stamp set with a value of $15.95, with a $60 purchase (prior to shipping/tax).

Pearls of Wisdom is an amazing assortment of sweet sentiments. I find it uplifting and found MANY sentiments in there that I couldn't wait to use. :) My card tonight uses the sentiment:

Kiss Slowly, Forgive Quickly

Sounds like sound advice to me. *wink* I whipped out the new By the Letters Die-namics dies and used the X (for kisses) in a grid formation. I separated them with a simple stitched line, and framed it all with the First Class Friends Die-namics postage stamp frame.

Tip: I drew in the grid with a pencil before I stitched. It gave me an easy guide to follow.

I've seen Michele Boyer do cool button "wraps" like this before and decided to do a little something different since I kept the embellishments light on this card.

I love this new alphabet die set, By the Letters. The letters are so fresh and clean.

Happy Shopping!

Don't forget to spend $60 and add the Triple Scoop Set to your cart!

Want to see what the rest of the team came up with using the newest stamps and dies? Click on over to the MFT Blog to take a tour of all that is new.

Die-namics Feature - Pre-Release Pep Rally December 2011

2011-12-05T22:00:00.012-07:00

Now that we've teased and tempted you all week long, it's almost time for you to shop for your favorite Brand Spankin' New products from MFT.

But first... it's time for our Die-namics Feature and Pre-Release Pep Rally!

Our Design Team has been busy creating jaw-dropping and inspiring projects for you, and we've saved the best for last.

We've taken an in-depth look at this month's Die-namics, while re-visiting the amazing sets being released tonight at 10 PM EST RIGHT HERE in the MFT Boutique.

And while we are at it, how about we make your life even easier with a "cheat sheet" of all that's new? Head over to the MFT Blog to print out a shopping list.

I've made 2 different cards for today's Die-namics Focus, using 2 very different styles. I am SUPER excited about the new floral Die-namics die that is being released on December 6th at 10 PM EST, Fringed Perennial. This die is a "cousin" of the Prima Donna Petals Die-namics die. It contains tabs that when adhered, provide lots of dimension and life to the flower.

On my card, I've created three Fringed Perennial flowers, each "double stacked" with plenty of fringe in the center. What can I say? More is more. :) The sentiment is from the Triple Scoop Set, Pearls of Wisdom, which you can earn FREE with a $60 purchase.

I made each flower monochromatic and added a 5 mm Swarovski crystal to the center of each one.

The sentiment is stamped on the middle layer of the Layered Label Die-namics die, and then trimmed in half. I added plenty of bling to this card to add some pizazz.

I finished off the inside of the card with another gorgeous sentiment from the stamp set.

Here is a look at the Fringed Perennial Die-namics die:

I made a VIDEO showing how to construct a Fringed Perennial Flower. You can view it HERE, or click the play button in the embedded video below.

I also re-visited the ALL-STAR Die-namics and Stamp Set. I wanted to make a card for my son, for his end-of-the-year football banquet that is coming up. He had a GREAT year and this masculine card should be even teen-approved. :)

The football comes complete with stitching detail and I added the stamped stitches as well. It is perched on top of the trophy Die-namics and I added the ALL-STAR name plate to the trophy base using the tiny Die-namics die. The banner is also part of the die set. I stamped the banner, cut it out with the die, then stamped the sentiment on it.

Here is a peek inside the card. I finished it off with some more sentiments from the set, and another die-cut football.

Here is another look at the ALL-STAR Die-namics and Stamp Set:

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
You have just a few more hours to submit your entry for this month's guest designer contest. Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the designers' posts for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Pure Innocence Princess - Frosty & Fabulous

2011-12-04T22:00:00.013-07:00

Hi all! It's day 6 of MFT Teaser Time and that means it's PURE INNOCENCE day. It's a fan fave and this month's offerings will not disappoint.

I have a duo of "frosty" cards to share, but let's start with the one that is "Frosty & Fabulous". This is the adorable snowman from the Pure Innocence line and I have her decked out in cool blue & sparkle.

The adorable sentiment is stamped on the File Tab Die-namics (the full-sized version).

The snowman is colored with Copic markers. I used some tinsel glitter on her scarf to give her some flair.

The embellishment was made with the Hearts a Plenty and Let it Snowflake Die-namics.

I used this cute little snowflake charm, which was a gift from Chris V. It is tied on with some white twine from Stampin' Up, which was a gift from my friend, Tracy.

I finished off the inside with another heart from the Hearts a Plenty and Let it Snowflake Die-namics.

Here is another card I made, this time using the Pure Innocence Ice Princess stamp set. She is colored with Copic markers. I used several Die-namics to decorate the card; Mini Tabs Foursome, Let it Snowflake, Crown Border.

Here is a peek inside the card.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Powder Day - Teaser Time Day 5

2011-12-03T22:00:00.007-07:00

Hi every"bunny". That was a lame pun for those of you who are confused. Get it? Snow bunny? LOL

Today is day 5 of MFT Teaser Time and I have a bright and cheery card using one of the new à la modes stamp sets, Ski Bunny. I decked her out in an outfit fit for a skiing clown (in my defense, I was trying to match the patterned paper LOL). The sentiment is stamped on the soon-to-be-released Mini Tabs Foursome and I used a simple embellishment made from the Let it Snowflake Die-namics die and some patterned vellum.

The skis are paper-pieced from striped paper and I pieced one ski at a time for a more realistic look (if striped skis were realistic, that is). LOL

Here is a peek inside:

These make sentiments SO easy to place on a card. Just tuck one behind a panel and you are DONE. Problematic sentiment placement? Problem solved. :)

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Tea & Baseball - MFT Teaser Time

2011-12-02T22:00:00.008-07:00

Hi all and welcome to day 4 of MFT Teaser Time. Today I have 2 cards to share that are as different as night and day... or tea and baseball. LOL

Up first, let me show you my masculine card using the new ALL-STAR Die-namics and Stamp Set. This set packs a punch, offering MANY sporting themed dies and stamps. I chose to use the baseball Die-namics die and place it on the cool trophy stand Die-namics die. The baseball has "cut-out stitches", but also offers an adorable stamp, which I used here. I LOVE that the trophy base includes a tiny name plate that you can use to stamp a variety of words on, that are included in the set of course. :)

I went with a masculine color combo, and kept this one clean and simple. If you look closely, you can see the cut outs on the baseball, so you could use it without the stamps as well.

I finished off the inside with another die included in the set and the solid baseball bat as a decorative accent.

Here is a look at the ALL-STAR Die-namics and Stamp Set, and a couple ways you can combine them.

Now, let's get girly, shall we? I made a card with the new Always Time for Tea Die-namics and Stamp Set, also. There are a TON of tiny parts and pieces to the die set and a HUGE 6 X 8 stamp set that you can use to dress up your teapot and teacup in a huge number of ways.

I chose to use the retro flower on mine. Notice the decorative accents come in 2 sizes for most of the "patterns" so you can match your teapot and teacup. :) The large die from the Layered Label Die-namics layers really well with the Oval Open Scallop Doily Die-namics die.

I finished off the inside with a sweet sentiment included in the set and a die-cut teacup.

Here is a closer look at the Always Time for Tea Die-namics and Stamp Set:

Here is another die being released on December 6th:

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Pearls of Wisdom - MFT Teaser Time Day 3

2011-12-01T22:00:00.001-07:00

Hi all and thanks for stopping by today! It's MFT Teaser Time and I have a card using Pearls of Wisdom, which is this month's Triple Scoop stamp set. Check out the details HERE on how you can earn this set on December 6th (or during the month of December anytime). It will be available for purchase on January 3rd.

I die-cut the Oval Open Scallop Doily Die-namics with cream card stock and threaded hemp through the holes. I used a sentiment from Pearls of Wisdom, but omitted the word happy, and instead used the soon-to-be-release By the Letters Die-namics to spell out the word "happy". I just LOVE the font of the alphabet dies. They are so cute... and happy looking. :)

Here are the new Die-namics I used on my card:

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Feel Better

2011-11-30T22:00:00.003-07:00

Hi all and welcome to Day 2 of MFT Teaser Time. Today, I have used Fred Bear GIves Comfort. 'Tis the season for sniffles, so I am sure this card will come in handy for someone feeling under the weather. Isn't Fred so cute holding the blanket, chicken soup, and tissues?

Fred is colored with Copic markers. I added Sakura Clear Glaze Pen to his eyes and nose.

The flower embellishment is a stack of Prima flowers with a flocked brad in the center.

I added lots of dimension by cutting out some portions of the image and paper-piecing them on with a thin glue dot.

I finished off the inside by stamping an included sentiment and Fred in a solid color ink.

I'm loving the new Mini Tabs Foursome.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thank You with All My ❤

2011-11-30T10:00:00.011-07:00

Hi all! This past Thanksgiving holiday has me feeling extra thankful for all the wonderful things in my life. I have an amazing husband, three gorgeous and sweet children, a job I LOVE, and friends that feel more like the sisters I never had. Life is good. :)

The warm, fuzzy feelings led me to make this thankful card for MFT's Wednesday Stamp Club 48.

I kept with a very literal interpretation of the sketch and used the same Die-namics, Well-Worn Greetings, with the coordinating stamp set. The heart was cut from red felt using the Notched Tag Die-namics. I added a bit of flair by using the Simply Scallops Die-namics for some trim in cream card stock. This card felt "homey" to me, so I reached for some twill ribbon and added a big bow in lieu of using a floral embellishment, like the sketch. Feel free to take some creative freedom when designing cards using the sketches. They are only to be used as inspiration and you can change it up as you see fit. :)

I get asked pretty frequently HOW I stitch so perfectly around ovals and circles. I took some step-by-step pictures this time so you can see how I do it.

Die-cut your shape, and stamp as desired. (Ignore the messy heart, which I "fixed" with a felt heart for my finished project.) Use a pencil to lightly draw a line about 1/8" from the outer edge of your shape. Erase and re-draw as needed until you have it as smooth as possible and as evenly spaced as possible.

Now, use your sewing machine and stitch ONE STITCH AT A TIME, following your pencil line. The needle should poke THROUGH the pencil line. Keep your stitches as consistent as possible. It is especially AWESOME if you can finish in the same hole you started in. (like I did here)

Using a WHITE eraser, rub over your stitches to remove any remaining pencil lines that are showing. Depending on the thread you use, you may be able to skip this step. Now, pull the threads to the back and adhere.

You'll be left with a (mostly) perfectly stitched oval (or circle).

Here is this week's WSC sketch:

InLinkz.com

May I Have This Dance? Teaser Time Day 1

2011-11-29T22:00:00.003-07:00

Hello there! It's MFT Teaser Time and you know what that means... in one short week there will be LOTS of new MFT goodness available to YOU. I've had a BLAST using all the new MFT Die-namics and stamp sets and can't wait for the rest of the week! But first, let me show you what I've created with the new Who's that Girl & Guy stamp set, May I Have This Dance? I loved it so much, I used it twice. :)

First up, I created this romantic card using May I Have This Dance?, Mini Tabs Foursome, and the new Skyline Die-namics (LOVE it).

The image was colored with Copic markers. I stamped a sentiment from the set on the Mini File Tab (LOVE the big ones, LOVE the new small ones). :)

The floral embellishment is a stack of various Prima flowers and a flocked brad.

Here is a peek inside the card. Check out the amazing Skyline Die-namics die. I LOVE it. The tiny window cutouts are ADORABLE. I used another included sentiment from the set.

After I made that card, I was feeling a romantic, black and white movie type of vibe and I decided to revisit the "monochromatic coloring" Copic technique and make another card. My goal was to make it look like a black and white polaroid picture. I used the Skyline Die-namics, and the NEW By the Letters Die-namics on this card, as well as the Hearts a Plenty and Homespun Birdhouse (heart) Die-namics dies.

I love the style of the alphabet. It is simple and sweet. It works with a large variety of styles from cute to elegant!

Here is a peek inside the card, using the Skyline Die-namics die again, as well as a beautiful sentiment from that stamp set.

Here are the soon-to-be-released Die-namics I have used on my cards.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Supplies:

InLinkz.com