November Technique Class Card #2

This month I was so excited about sharing some great Christmas cards that I might have gotten a bit carried away.  Two of the cards will take a bit more time to make, so I felt the last card needed to be a bit more simple to make.  So using a technique that I was introduced to at Convention, I case'd this card with some modifications.  

Although you can see it from this photo, the Christmas tree is thick and raised without used dimensionals.  It is a quick and easy technique that adds dimension to your cards.  All you need in card stock and adhesive sheets.

Tomorrow I will post the last card in this month's technique classes.  You will want to check back because it is so cute!  

A reminder that I still have openings for my sessions this month.  They  are tomorrow morning @ 9:15 AM, Wednesday @ 7PM and Saturday @ 9 AM.  Contact me if you live in the area and are interested in attending.

Setting up my stamping area today for all the classes that I am holding this week.  Enjoy the day!

August Technique Card #2

This was the second card that I did using the stamp set "FLOWER PATCH" .  What I was trying to do with this stamp set during the class was to show the different techniques you could use to step it up each card.  On this card I used the "TWO STEP STAMPING" technique and then I embossed the center of the flower with a lighter embossing powder.  I also got a little more fancy with my stamping.  

Check out the side of the inside layer.  I demonstrated how to create their own border using  2 of the stamps in the set.  I used the leaf and stamped the leaf twice.  Once pointing to the top and once pointing to the bottom.  I tried to line up the leaves the best I could.  Them I stamped the small flower in a darker color where the two stems met.  I stamped the flower image darker so that it would hide where the two meet and that way it gives the illusion that it is one stamp.


The supplies that I used for this card were:

STAMP SET: Flower Patch
PAPER:  Bermuda Bay, Whisper White
INK:  Bermuda Bay, Coastal Cabana, Pistachio Pudding, Versamark
ACCESSORIES:  Crushed Curry Embossing Powder, Heating Tool, Jewel Rhinestones, Regal Candy Dots

For this card, I cut the card stock 4-1/2" x 9-1/2" and then scored it at 5-1/2".  Then I folded it to create a card that the one side is longer than the other.  I did that so everyone could see the border on the right hand side of the card.  I think it created a more interesting card.  

Next time I will post the last card which is stepped up even more.  I have only one grandson today to watch so hopefully today will an easier day.  Well I am off and running now to take on my grandma duties.  Enjoy your day!  I know I will.

August Technique Class Card #1

This month I tried something new.  I am waiting to do this with all my classes to see if my customers liked how I handled classes this month.  I called this month's classes, "TRIPLE THREAT".  What I did was to choose one stamp set.  I chose the "FLOWER PATCH" Photopolymer stamp set.  I then did three different techniques using the same stamp set.  It was a great way to show how versatile a stamp set can be. 

This card uses a very simple technique which is "TWO STEP STAMPING".  It is very simple.  You stamp your image  and then stamp another image over top of the first image to create the look you are looking for.  That technique was used to create this flower, but...I also did something extra on this card.  I stamped the leaves and then I stamped again on top of the first image but I placed the stamp up a bit.  That created the look of the alternating light and darker leaves.  Just a little twist in stamping.  It created a bit more interest in this card.
The supplies that I used for this card were:

STAMP SETS: Flower Patch, A Dozen Thoughts
PAPER:  Pear Pizazz, Whisper White, Daffodil Delight
INK:  Pear Pizazz, Daffodil Delight, Chocolate Chip
ACCESSORIES:  Linen Thread, Small Oval Punch, 1" Circle Punch, 1-1/4" Circle Punch, Dimesionals, Large Polka Dot Embossing Folder, Big Shot

I always feel that most of the time, people buy a stamp set because they see one card they like and they wish to replica it it.  Then the stamp set is never to be seen again.  I like to show my customers how versatile a stamp set can be so they get more bang for their buck.  I want them to buy a stamp set that they like but they can use it a number of different ways.  I always tell them do not hesitate to pay more for a stamp set you like IF it is a set that can you can do a lot with.  If you a stamp set is versatile and you can use it a number of different ways, you probably will use it more.  I always tell my customers when they are starting out to pick a sentiment set that you can use for a number of occasions and pick one stamp set that you can use a number of different ways.  That is always a good investment. You can always add more specialty sets but I feel you always need a good go to set.

I will be posting the other 2 cards next time I post.  Enjoy the day!

Open Seas Patina Style

This was another one of the samples that I created for the Demo meeting at Janet's on Saturday.  I have loved this stamp set from the first time I saw this in the Stamping Up Catalog.  This is my favorite go to stamp set when I am trying to come up with a masculine card.  

The supplies that I used for this card were:

STAMP SETS:  The Open Sea, World Map, Glorious Grunge
PAPER:  Very Vanilla, Night of Navy, Early Espresso, Whisper White
INK:  Early Espresso, Night of Navy, Crumb Cake, Basic Gray, Versamark
ACCESSORIES: Sponge, Chevron Embossing Folder, Espresso Baker's Twine,  Silver Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Brayer, Circle Framelits

If you are looking at the supply list and are wondering where some of these supplies were used, let me help you.  To create the Faux PatinaI used a piece of Whisper White card stock.  I opened the Chevron Embossing Folder and inked the smooth side of the embossing folder using a brayer inked with Crumb Cake.  I then ran that through the Big Shot.  I then took that piece of inked card stock and sponged over the card stock with Basic Gray.  The next step was to then sponge Night of Navy over the raised area.  The last step in this process was to take one of the speckled stamps  from Glorious Grunge stamp set, ink with Versa mark and stamp all over the inked card stock.  I then took Silver Embossing Powder and then used the Heating Tool to emboss.  

The Faux Patina technique has a lot of different steps, but it is not hard to do.  I liked using the Silver Embossing Powder with this color combination because of  the blues being a cool feel and the silver also has a cool look to it.  

All in all it was a nice day.  It also gave me a good excuse to get this stamp set out again.  Enjoy the day!

Faux Patina Weekend

This past weekend I attended an event at Janet Wakeland's.  I always enjoy her demo events for many reasons.  She has so many good tips for demos, great swaps, great Make & Takes and more.  The past few meetings Janet has been having various Demos share different techniques with the group.  This past weekend's focus was on various ways you can use the Big Shot or the new Texture Embossing Boutique.  I was one of the demonstrators who demo'd a technique that could be done with the use of Embossing Folders.

I decided to do Faux Patina for my demo. And this is one of the samples that I used in presentation to showcase that technique. The embossed card stock behind the image is the Embossed Patina piece I made.  I really like this technique and I found the directions for it on Angie Leach's blog.  She has done some incredible projects using this technique.  I love antique things and this technique gives you that old antique feeling.

The supplies that I used for this card were:

STAMP SETS:  En Francois, Love and Sympathy, Petite Pairs
PAPER:  Whisper White, Always Artichoke, Early Espresso
INK:  Versamark, Early Espresso, Soft Suede, Crumb Cake, Crazy Cajun, Always Artichoke, Primrose Petals
ACCESSORIES:  Beautiful Baroque Embossing Folder, Big Shot, Sponges, Dimensionals, Gold Embossing Powder, Heating Tool, Always Artichoke & Primrose Petals Markers

The most important part of the Faux Patina Technique is Gold Embossing on top to make it look like metal.  I think I did all right when I did my demo.  I enjoyed doing it.  I will post another sample card tomorrow that I did for the demo.  Enjoy the day!

The Last of the November Technique Cards

This is the final card that we made this month during my Technique Classes.  I always create a gift card holder during the last Technique Class of the year.  My customers are always looking for new ways to give their family and friends a unique way to give a gift card.  So I come up with a different way to make a gift card holder.

This year it was easy to come up with a new way to make a gift card.  When Stampin' Up released the new Circle Card Thinlets, I was so excited.  What a quick and easy way to make a fancy fold card!  But the fantastic twist is you can also make a great fancy fold gift card holder. The first pic is the card but I also added a closeup of the card.  I just wanted you to see the detail that is on the reindeer.  

The supplies that I used for this card were:

STAMP SETS:  Best of 25 Years...Christmas, Warmth and Wonder (hostess set)
PAPER:  Whisper White, Cherry Cobbler, Baked Brown Sugar, Season of Style DSP
INK:  Baked Brown Sugar, Cherry Cobbler 
ACCESSORIES:  Circle Card Thinlet, Decorative Label Punch, 2-1/2" Circle Punch, Jewel Rhinstones, 1" Circle Punch, 2 Way Glue, Dazzling Diamonds



The 1" Circle Punch was used on the flap covered with the DSP which creates the pocket that holds the gift card.   This card is very simple in color using on 2 colors along with the white.  My customers really liked the idea of using just the brown and red.  I was worried it was not colorful enough but they felt the simplicity of it made it stunning.  

Well another busy day.  Today I am helping a friend make cards and crafts using animal stamps.  Her daughter is studying to be a veterinarian.  Her group is holding a fundraiser and they are selling items that have to do with animals. The fundraiser is tomorrow evening so we have a busy day stamping and getting things done.  I know I will be busy today go out and Enjoy your day!

I Am Back Finally!

After many weeks without a working computer, I am finally back.  When I posted the last time, I thought my computer was fixed.  It wasn't!  I finally had to go out and buy a new one.  So Mac is gone but his half brother is now at the house.  I got it yesterday so I am still getting used to this new guy.  I plan to be posting regularly again.  It has been driving me crazy that I have not been able to do what I love.

So finally here is the second card in the series of three for the month of November.  I was not sure how my customers would like this card but they loved it!  I designed this card by using a technique that I had seen demonstrated at last years convention.  I think it was Dawn Griffith that demonstrated a way to use leftover scraps of ribbon.  I liked what I saw but decided to wait until I could think of a project that would really showcase the ribbon design.  So this idea finally came to my head to use that technique for a Christmas Ornament.

The supplies that I used for this project were:

STAMP SETS: Ornament Keepsakes
PAPER:  Whisper White, Cherry Cobbler, Silver Glimmer Paper, Gumball Green
INK:  Gumball Green
ACCESSORIES:  Real Red 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Whisper White 1/8" Taffeta, Whisper White 3/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Gumball Green 3/8" Stitched Satin Ribbon, Holiday Ornament Framelits, Beautifully Baroque, Rhinestone Jewels, Dimensionals, Adhesive Sheets

If you look closely, you can see that the ornament shape is cut out of the Gumball Green card stock.  Underneath is the strips of ribbon scraps adhered to the adhesive sheet.  It seemed a little unfinished so I added the stamped elliptical shape and placed a rhinestone inside.  That little touch seemed to finish the ornament.  I hoped you enjoyed this project and please come back tomorrow because I will have a new post.  Hopefully my new computer will not let me down.  Enjoy the day!

Downline Meeting Make & Take

Susan and I had our joint Downline Meeting on Saturday.  We have been demonstrating a new product and also demonstrating a technique at each of our meetings and then doing a Make & Take using that technique.  At this meeting, I demonstrated a technique using a baby wipe and re-inkers.  You place a few drops of various colors of re-inkers on a baby wipe.  Then you use the baby wipe to ink a SOLID image stamp and that creates a multi colored image.  I thought  that technique would be great to create an autumn leaf.  I love the leaves this time of year when they are changing colors.  The leaves are usually multicolored as they are changing.  so this technique was perfect for this Autumn inspired card.

For this card I used the following products:

STAMP SETS:  Gently Falling, Sweet Essentials, Glorious Grunge
PAPER:  Early Espresso, Crumb Cake, Old Olive, Cajun Craze, Whisper White, Sweater Weather DSP
INK:  Cajun Craze, Crumb Cake
ACCESSORIES:  2-1/2" Circle Punch, Rhinestone Jewels, Brown Sharpie Marker (non SU), Baby Wipes (non SU), Dimensionals

I also colored the Rhinestone Jewels with the colored Sharpie Markers.  This was an extra technique for everyone to experience.  We had a great day and there were 2 other M & T's that we made and I will post those at a later time. 

Today we have all three boys again.  So we will be busy all day long.  The weather is really nice so we will have them outside playing a lot today.  Enjoy the day!

Convention Swap #1

You are going to say that you have seen this card already.  This is similar but I made a few changes to it so that it would be made using all current product.  When yo are swapping at SU events, you need to make all your cards using current product.

I made this card for Technique class when I was showing the CHALKBOARD TECHNIQUE.  I had used a chevron patterned DSP for that card.  But this card I used the new "Positively Chevron" stamp.  I love it!  I was so pleased that it came out looking so nice.  I also changed the background to Smokey Slate card stock.  I really like the changes and could not be happier how this card turned out.  The supplies that I used for this card were:

STAMP SETS:  Blooming with Kindness, , Positively Chevron and Oh,Hello
PAPER:  Smokey Slate, Basic Black, Whisper White
INK:  Versamark, Daffodil Delight, Whisper White
ACCESSORIES:  Dotted Scallop Edge Border Punch, Apothecary Label Framelits, White Embossing Powder, 1/8" Daffodil Delight Taffeta Ribbon

I was running out of time and so I decided to use a card that I had made earlier but changed it up a bit.  Convention starts Thursday so I still have a bit of time to finish the rest of my swaps.  Enjoy the day!

November Technique Class- Card 2

Here is the second card that we are making at Technique Class.  This card is a "Diorama Card"I think it s really cute.  Sometimes you just need a card that is a bit whimsical and I think this card fits the bill. The supplies that I used for this project were:

STAMP SET:  Snow Much Fun
PAPER:  Bashful Blue, Whisper White, Night of Navy
INK:  White, Staz-On, Night of Navy
ACCESSORIES:  Northen Flurry Embossing Folder, Labels Collection Framelits, Big Shot, Colored Pencils, Blender Pens, Scoring Tool, Bitty Banner Framelits, Sponge Dauber, Sticky Strip

This is such a cute card.  Everyone will enjoy receiving this card, hands down.  And on the plus, side it is a very simple card to make.  Trying to get started on my own Christmas cards and hopefully the today is the day.  Even if I only get to cut the cardstock.  Enjoy the day!

June Technique Class- Card 1

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend.  I am still trying to get over whatever I have.  I am still not feeling as peppy as I should.  Sunday was the first day since it hit me that I was out and about and that was only to get groceries.  But anyway, I have been trying to get to play with all the great new products that I have been able to pre-order.  


This stamp set is named "EVERYTHING ELEANOR" and we received it at Leadership.  I also used a new stamp set which you will also find in the NEW 2012-13 catalog called, "ITTY BITTY BANNERS"for the sentiment. The background was created by using "EN FRANCOIS".  Although this is a very easy card to make, I like the simplicity of it.


I am sure you are wondering how this card be one of the technique cards for this month.  The theme this month is "Tips, Tricks, and New Products".  I have shown you the new products but there is a trick hidden in this card.  It is so simple but it creates an impact on this card.


If you are interested in Technique Class this month, please contact me.  The dates this month are:
Saturday June 2 @ 9-11:30 AM
Tuesday June 5 @ 9:15-11:45 AM
Wednesday June 6 @ 7-9:30 PM


We will make 3 cards using 3 different tips or tricks using some of the "New" products available.  You will also receive a technique card for each tip or trick demonstrated. 
Cost $10 or $5 if $25 worth of product is purchased.


This month is going to be a little crazy because my second grandchild is due toward the end of this month.  I am so excited!  I am trying to get a lot of my stamping projects due at the beginning of the month so I can spend some time with the little one once he arrives.  Enjoy your day!

January Technique Classes- Card 2

This is the second of three cards that we will working on at our monthly Technique Classes.  This is a Gate Fold Latch Card.  I got the directions from Dawn Olshefske.  What a great way to fancy up a Gate Fold Card.  This techniques adds an added twist to the Gate Fold and makes it a little more interesting.  The top picture is when the card is closed.  The bottom picture lets you see how the card interlocks to close.

I used another stamp from the Sale A Bration brochure.  I used my markers to color and the stamp and get a beautiful multi-color design.  The Sale A Bration promotion starts January 24 and goes to March 31.

Another very simple card that will make a big statement to those people who receive this card.  This stamp set is one of my favorites because it has a vintage feel to it and that is more my personal style.

Well I am off and putting my nose to the grind stone today.  I need to get these swaps done and it is taking so much time.  Enjoy your day!