Seeing Ink Spots

Clearly Keeping it Simple

2012-02-15T10:51:00.000-08:00

Yes, that's right this card whipped up nice and simple for two reasons. One, I cased one of my own layouts and two, I used a clear Sweet Shop Designer Sticker. Oh they are so cool and they are all of yummy treats like candy (yum), pie (yum), sundaes (yum), cake (yum), and did I say candy (yes, but another yum).

For the cupcake I added a squirt of Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Details to the cherry on the cupcake and clear Dazzling Details to the frosting.  The greeting is accentuated with Jelly Bean Brads also from the same Sweet Shop Suite.

This week at Create with Connie and Mary we are featuring the Sweet Shop product suite and the projects are super mouthwatering.  You too can join the Edition and get all 36 step by step tutorials of never before seen projects.  Mine design for this week is totally innovative and functional, but you can't see it here.  You have to join Create with Connie and Mary--you'll love it.

Enjoy and Happy craftin, Elizabeth

CCMC OCC4 A Simple Treat for Someone Sweet

2012-02-11T00:05:00.000-08:00

Hello paper craft enthusiasts, welcome to my blog! Happy Saturday and theme challenge goers from Create with Connie and Mary! This weekend's challenge is to create a "simple treat for someone sweet." I seem to be getting Spring fever as I am beginning to think in soft fresh colors, I see blooming branches (yes, lots in San Jose), and I want to stamp and make flowers and everything new like baby birds and chicks.

This cute baby sized basket is made using the new Simply Scrappin' kit found in the Occasions Mini Catalog, the Box #2 Bigz XL Die, and the Labels Collection Framelits. The tools make it a piece of cake to make.

Are you on the look out for more spring themed ideas? How about great ideas and full color tutorials to go with them? Yes? JOIN CREATE WITH CONNIE AND MARY! There are so many tutorials still to come in this Editon PLUS you can go back and see the previous four weeks worth of projects. In all six weeks of the Edition there will be 36 custom tutorials featuring products from the Occasions Mini Catalog. Join us for a blast :0)

All Supplies from SU!

Papers - Spring Fever Simply Scrappin' Kit, Whisper White Card Stock

Accessories - Box #2 Bigz XL Die, Labels Collection Framelits, Stampin' Dimensionals, Embossing Buddy, Basic Rhinestones, Certainly Celery Satin Ribbon

Non SU! - Crinkled Packaging Paper

Fabric Friday

2012-02-10T08:10:00.000-08:00

As the saying goes "a picture is worth a thousand words." So, rather than composing a bunch of text for this post I will share seven photos which means 7000 words ;0)

Timeless Portrait Designer Fabric wrist watch with Designer Buttons and Striped Black Grosgrain Ribbon

Under side view

I will share that this watch was made as a sample for Stampin' Up!'s convention last summer. It is made using the Timeless Portrait Designer Fabric and the Table Setting Bigz XL Die (now retired, but so totally awesome). I cut two layers of the fabric and one layer of wool felt to make the wrist band of the watch. The watch face and D rings were purchased at Joann's.


I package the watch on a fabric covered piece of lightweight cardboard which I placed in a box bottom made form Red Glimmer Paper and stamped with images from Creatively Yours and Frame It.

Window sheet box top/lid

All packaged and ready to give as a gift

Wearing the watch

One last view of the full package

Happy fabric stitchin' and craftin, Elizabeth

Hot Pocket of Love

2012-02-07T18:33:00.000-08:00

Using the Petal Cone Bigz L Die this cute pocket was made from the Cheerful Treat DSP. It's cute and the pocket is just the right size for little candy or a great gift card to give to a friend for Valentine's Day. For this pocket the DSP has been lined with Pink Pirouette card stock. It gives lots of nice stability. The flower was made by layering a couple of the pieces from the Blossom Builders pack. And the simple two-toned greeting is from a stamp set called Family Reunion.

For more Valentine ideas click over to Shirley's Blog Hop. In fact it would be really cool if you would join along. It's fun and you can make some online stampin' friends :0) I'll be looking for your link!

Here are the simple steps:

1. Anything goes card or 3D project it just has to be Valentines.

2. Add the Hop to your post, by using the code from Linky tools.

3. Add Shirley's badge to post with a link to her blog.

4. Has to be a new post.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

CCMC OCC3 Sketch Challenge

2012-02-04T00:05:00.000-08:00

I really REALLY like sketch challenges. They totally move me out of my typical layouts and into a grove I would not even think of. This sketch for Create With Connie and Mary is a super cool one. You can go to the Connie and Mary site to see more cards designed using this sketch. You can also join the sketch challenge if you are a subscriber to the Occasions Edition. Not a member? It's not too late to join.

On this card I used:

Stamps: Bordering on Romance, Loving Thoughts

Inks: Blushing Bride, Baja Breeze, Riding Hood Red Classic Inks

Paper: Sahara Sand, Whisper White, & Blushing Bride Card Stocks, Twitterpated DSP

Accessories: Blossom Builders, Labels Collection Framelits, Adorning Accents Edgelits Dies, Blushing Bride Smooch Spray, Modern Label Punch, Twitterpated Designer Fabric

Fabric Friday

2012-02-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

Check out this ribbon rose cocktail ring. I made it by simply turning and twisting the Blushing Bride Pleated Satin around itself on soda cap ring base. I used a hot glue gun to hold the ribbon in place and in just a few minutes I was done. Because I gave it as a gift to my fabulous upline I had to make a custom box in which to wrap the ring. I tied the tiny box with a loopy bow and a fun tag. For extra added texture and interest I melted the organdy ribbon with my heat tool.

I wanted to show how small and cute the box was. Look close and you can see the box was lined with Twitterpated DSP.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

My Dog Ate My Paper Craft Stash!

2012-02-01T07:53:00.000-08:00

Yes that's right, I went away for a week and when I came home I found a mess down my hallway. My dog Baxter is over four years old and he still loves toys and to chew paper, cardboard, and water bottles. He got into a basket of contraband items (non SU!) and took delight in chewing a box of chipboard letters apart of which he left a trail down the hall just for me to clean up. I had what was left sitting on my stamp table and decided to add them to my junk styled Valentine card.

This card is a conglomeration of goodness. I have used the Beau Chateau Side Notes mixed with the Attic Boutique Side Notes and DSP. I have also got a strip of Baja Breeze Pleated Satin Ribbon along with Very Vanilla Seam Binding. But that's not all. There are also tiny bits of bling from the Blossom Builders pack. And since they were out I tucked a flower in from that kit too.

There is lots of fun things to see. Pop over to The Shabby Tea Room to see this week's Valentine with a mail or postage element challenge. The cards there are gorgeous. Also follow along with Shirley's Blog Hop.

You too can join the hop:

1. Anything goes, Card, 3D project it just has to be Valentines.

2. Add the Hop to your Post, by using the code from Linky tools.

3. Add badge to post with a link to my blog.

4. It has to be a new post.

Awesome Color Challenge CCMC-OCC2

2012-01-28T00:05:00.000-08:00

The Everyday Enchantment DSP from the Sale-a-Bration brochure is the most beautiful and awesome palette of papers. I love the colors and the mix of prints--they are A MA ZING! The pack should be called Everything You Make Will Be Gorgeous DSP. And guess what--the pack is FREE with a $50!

Today over at Create With Connie and Mary we have a color challenge taken directly from the DSP which is super duper easy to make look great. If you are not a subscriber to the Occasions Edition of Create With Connie and Mary you can see all the Saturday Challenge cards. If you want to have access to six weeks of daily tutorials it's not too late to join. Click right here for the details.

All supplies from Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Fresh Vintage
Inks - Poppy Parade, Lucky Limeade, Pool Party, and Soft Suede (for sponging)
Papers - Pool Party Card Stock, Everyday Enchantment DSP
Accessories - Hounds Tooth Embossing Folder, Labels Framelits Collection, Heart Trinkets, Everyday Enchantment Ribbon and Brad Pack, Brights Brads, Chantilly Crochet Ribbon, Linen Thread

Fabric Friday Tutorial

2012-01-27T07:46:00.000-08:00

Hello Fabric Friday Folks!

I have good news for anyone who would like a free tutorial. I have written a set of instructions for my ruffled Demi-Apron. If you would like to take a look just go ahead and download the file. If you would like a muslin pattern sent to you by mail I will gladly send one to you for $5. Just click on the buy it now button. (US and Canada only)

See the original post here showcasing more photos and a description.

Free Demi-Apron Tutorial

For the Muslin Pattern

Happy Stitchin, Elizabeth

Box of Valentines

2012-01-25T07:40:00.000-08:00

Hello and welcome to my post for Shirley's Valentine Blog Hop.  I am sharing with you a handmade box of four Valentines whipped up in less than an hour.  It all works thanks to the wonderful Quick Cuts found in the Occasions Mini Catalog by Stampin' Up!  These Quick Cut Cards are stunning and make whatever you dream up totally gorgeous, plus they come with envelopes.  You get four heart and four lace border laser cut Very Vanilla cards with eight Blushing Bride envelopes.

All Supplies from Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Candy Conversations
Inks - Blushing Bride
Paper - Quick Cuts Cards and Envelopes, Blushing Bride Card Stock, First Edition DSP, Window Sheets
Tools - Hearts Framelits Collection, Personal Cutter/Scorer
Accessories - Champagne Glass Glitter, Blushing Bride Pleated Satin Ribbon, Sticky Pages, Jumbo Pearls, Linen Thread, Twill Tape

Box of four matching cards with Blushing Bride envelopes.

A view of the full card (gorgeous in person I must say).

A simple heart cut using the Hearts Framelits Collection perfectly aligns with the laser cut heart.

I layered a piece of First Edition inside the box bottom for a simple finishing touch and for added strength/stability.

Join along and add you Valentine to Shirley's Blog Hop:

Anything goes, Card, 3D project it just has to be Valentines.
Add the Hop to your Post, by using the code from Linky tools.
Add badge to post with a link to my blog.
Has to be a new post.

Create with Connie and Mary Sketch Challenge

2012-01-21T00:05:00.000-08:00

Welcome everyone! Happy Saturday and happy sketch challenge goers from Create with Connie and Mary! This weekend's sketch is a really good, no make that a great one. It definitely has a unique and fresh twist.

My card features the Candy Conversations a la carte stamp from the Occasions Mini Catalog paired with the Sweet Shop DSP. For the arched shape I used the Label Collections Framelits and then added a sweet scallop detail at the bottom of the framelit to follow the sketch. If my label collection framelit piece looks longer than normal it's because it is. I cut it across the middle and stretched it open to the size I was looking for. Then I just placed the heart stamped panel over the gap--walla.

All supplies are from Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Candy Conversations a la carte

Inks - Poppy Parade Classic Ink, Lucky Limeade & Early Espresso Stampin' Write Markers

Paper - Poppy Parade, Early Espresso, & Whisper White Card Stocks, Sweet Shop DSP

Accessories - Label Collections Framelits, Scallop Ribbon Punch, Boho Blossoms Punch, In Color Brads, Stripes Textured Embossing Folder, Stampin' Dimensionals

Happy craftin,

At the Hop

2012-01-18T07:24:00.000-08:00

Shirley, author of Look at My Cute Stuff, is having a Valentines Blog Hop for the next few weeks.  This week and each week until Valentines there will be lots to see from ANYONE who wants to add there project to the hop.

Here are the rules: 

1. Anything goes, Card, 3D project it just has to be Valentines. 

2. Add the Hop to your Post, by using the code from Linky tools. 

3. Add badge to post with a link to my blog. 

4. Has to be a new post.

If you can't make it this week that Shirley says that is ok.  She will be doing the Hop every Tuesday, January 17th, 24th, 31st, and February 7th.  She will pick a weekly winner on Mondays, then the big Four Week Winner on Tuesday February 14th Valentines Day!!

And now my Valentines card for the hop featuring the Hearts Framelits Collection with the Attic Boutique and First Edition DSPs.  The "amour" greeting comes from the stamp set called Artistic Etchings and the Framed Tulips embossing folder was used for the raised border.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Making Valentines

2012-01-16T13:10:00.000-08:00

Now is the time to bring out your heart and Valentine stamps and accessories to create some cards for those your love.  For this card I used the Greeting Card Kids stamp set, an Aquapainter, watercolor paper, and a few ink pads.  My favorite method of water coloring is to squeeze an ink pad to collect ink in the lid and to pick it up with an Aquapainter.

For this card I mixed a few ribbons and layered them on a strip of Blushing Bride and First Edition DSP. The card base is Soft Suede. A few added touches finish the card...Smooch Spritz, Basic Pearls, Vintage Trinkets, and a bit of Dazzling Diamonds Glitter on the crinoline.

Happy Valentine craftin, Elizabeth

Last Day

2012-01-14T08:17:00.000-08:00

TODAY is the LAST DAY of our Preview Week over on Create with Connie and Mary. We have ONE more opportunity to give away Blog Candy…you have to visit the Create site to learn where you have to go! It is also the LAST DAY to take advantage of Early Bird Savings for the Create with Connie and Mary Occasions 2012 Edition! Save $5 off of the regular $34.95 US price for SIX WEEKS of daily step-by-step tutorials and challenges on Saturdays! That is over 36 tutorials for only $29.95! So hurry, you need to sign up now! Only our subscribers will get to see the fabulous tutorial projects. You will not see any sneak peeks anywhere after today.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Special Announcement

2012-01-13T00:05:00.000-08:00

PREVIEW WEEK is almost finished over at Create with Connie and Mary. Today it is Connie Babbert's turn to show off her fabulous Preview Project! Go to Create with Connie and Mary and download the FREE step-by-step tutorial! The Design Team wants to show you what our tutorials look like in our subscription service!

We are also offering BLOG CANDY two more times this week…but you need to check out where to leave a comment by checking in at Create with Connie and Mary! Don't miss out, our Early Bird Special Pricing ends on Saturday, January 14th!

I thought I would share a card I made for a swap. As in my past few posts I have used lots of new products from the Occasions Mini Catalog. I like making cards using the Twitterpated DSP to highlight the Apothecary Art stamp set.

For the the main image I stamped on Riding Hood Red cardstock which I don't normally do (stamp open line art images on dark paper). I colored in the flowers with white pastel and a blender pen. The leaves were dabbed with a bit of light green pastel. It's so easy and looks great.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Creating Great Things and Blog Candy!

2012-01-10T00:05:00.000-08:00

Today is my preview day for the Occasions Edition of Create with Connie and Mary. My card today is super duper sweet. But first I have to ask...

"Do you want a chance to win a FREE subscription to Create with Connie and Mary?" If you do, just leave a comment on my blog today and be entered to win--it's that easy.

Wehave been working hard as a Design Team to bring you some special projectsincorporating the new Occasions Mini Catalog stamps and accessories. We welcome readers, customers, and fellow Stampin' Up! demonstrators to join our latest Edition for six weeks of fabulous tutorials! Checkout Create with Connie & Mary and sign up for the Early Bird Special before January 14th to save.

I have used a bunch of new accessories from the brand new Occasions Mini Catalog, they are just a few of which will be showcased in many of the exclusive tutorials at Create with Connie and Mary.

Stamps - Candy Conversations (A la Carte)
Inks - Blushing Bride, Cherry Cobbler, and Basic Gray
Papers - Blushing Bride, Cherry Cobbler, & Whisper White Card Stocks, Twitterpated DSP
Accessories - Hearts Collection Framelits Dies, 2 3/8" Scallop Circle Punch, Baja Breeze Pleated Satin Ribbon, Cherry Cobbler Bakers Twine, Basic Rhinestones, Dazzling Diamonds

A closer view of the stamping and pleated ribbon.

It was random that the dip of the larger hearts aligned with the "love you" heart

As a kid in elementary school I loved when we made art projects. In fact I would go home and get out my scissors and construction paper and recreate what my teacher taught us to make. When I saw the largest of the hearts in the Hearts Framelits Collection it brought me back to 3rd grade and making Valentine crafts and signing cards for each class mate. I always picked the ugly ones for the boys! But this year for my Valentine I made a pretty and pink and scalloped and pleated card complete with glitter and rhinestones--nothing too girly for my sweetheart ;0)

Don't forget to leave a comment and be entered to win a subscription to the Occasions Edition of Create with Connie and Mary.

Pretty and Pleated

2012-01-07T17:43:00.000-08:00

From now until January 14th at 11:55 pm you can take advantage of the special pricing of $29.95 - that's $5 off the regular subscription price of $34.95!

The Occasion Edition of Create with Connie and Mary includes SIX full weeks of exclusive FABULOUS ideas with complete tutorials featuring the Occasions Mini Catalog products. For six days a week for all six weeks members of the design team...

Connie Babbert
Mary Brown
Elizabeth Price
Debbie Henderson
Robin Messenheimer

...will be sharing with you exclusive projects complete with instructions in downloadable tutorials! Plus there are stampin' challenges on Saturdays. Each and every day there is awesomeness going on. There will be a total of 36 full projects with tutorials for $29.95 during Early Bird Savings ...that $.83 a project...there is no better deal going! ALL of our projects are EXCLUSIVE to Create with Connie and Mary Occasions Edition 2012.

To get an idea of what our projects are like visit the Create with Connie and Mary site TODAY to download a beautiful tutorial and enter to win some BLOG CANDY!

For now check out my gorgeous Apothecary Art card. I have used my Simply Scored Tool to create a strip of box pleats which has be highlighted with a banding of Old Olive Satin Ribbon. Instead of tying a knot to secure the ribbon I grabbed a piece of the new 1/8" Lucky Limeade Organdy Ribbon from the Everyday Enchantment collection. I think it adds a nice touch of texture and panache.

If you look close you will see all kinds of new Occasions Mini Catalog merchandise and Sale-a-bration cool stuff too.

Here is a close up of the ribbon detail

And a view of the box pleats

Don't forget to go to the Create with Connie and Mary site today, January 8th, and learn all about how to enter to win BLOG CANDY and get your FREE tutorial.

Happy craftin,

A La Card Monkey #90

2012-01-06T17:59:00.000-08:00

I'm doin' a happy dance because I was selected as a "Monkey Princess" for this card over at A La Card Monkey. I mentioned in an earlier post that one of the perks of winning a challenge is that you get to be a guest designer for a week. Their challenge this week is a double one. They have combined a great sketch along with a "new to you" theme. What's "new to you?" It is anything new that you have not used before.

I used two things that were new to me on this card. One, the Berry Blossoms Designer Series Paper and two, the Hearts Framelits. Both are super cool. With the help of the sketch this card came together in a quick jiffy. Pop on over to A La Card Monkey and make a card using their dual challenge.


And here is my card


A closer view of the heart

The card base is Lucky Limeade which was embossed with the Perfect Polka Dots folder. My layer of Berry Blossoms DSP is backed with Ivory Naturals card stock. If you look closely at the ribbon you'll notice a slight Wisteria Wonder tint. I did dye the ribbon in Classic ink refill and water. The heart was cut using the new set of Heart Framelits found in the Occasions Mini Catalog and then I punched two scallop circles to go behind each heat bump. To give the heart a bit more interest I used the Elegant Lines Embossing Folder along with a little Illuminate Top Coat Smooch Paint in the leaves and circles. You can see the Smooch Paint better in the top photo of the card. The greeting comes from one of my all-time favorite stamp sets called Short and Sweet.

Happy card challenge craftin, Elizabeth

A Hand Stamped Sentiments Challenge

2012-01-01T20:23:00.000-08:00

When I saw this challenge at Hand Stamped Sentiments I had to stamp along. I am drawn to everything pale blue and when I saw the cupcakes I was doubly hooked, I mean who doesn't love a cupcake. Me, I like a nice and dense moist cake with cream cheese frosting--YUM.

I used paper and brads from the new Sale-a-Bration accessories in the Everyday Enchantment Suite and the card base and striped ribbon are Soft Suede. For the focal point I punched a quick cupcake using the Cupcake Builder Punch. I used the smallest Framelit from the Labels Collection to showcase the cupcake. The icing is just a simple coat of Dazzling Diamonds Glitter which I set with a Two-Way Glue Pen.

My 500th Post!

2011-12-29T10:55:00.000-08:00

Wow I can't believe I have posted 500 times on this blog. All but two are stamping related entries--that's a lot of paper crafts. For today's milestone post I am sharing a card I made for a swap which was inspired by the sketch layout over at A La Card Monkey.

I have used new stamps and papers from the Occasions Mini Catalog. I also have to share that the designers over at Create with Connie and Mary are getting their projects ready for a brand new Edition you will not want to miss.

It's time for Early Bird SAVINGS! Over at Create with Connie and Mary their Occasions Edition 2012 is getting underway! You'll enjoy a SIX week subscription to exclusive samples each day featuring the Stampin' Up! Occasions 2012 AND Sale-A-Bration Mini brochures. There will bechallenges, tutorials, techniques, and best of all, PRIZES! Customers and demonstrators welcome!

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL save $5....$29.95. You can click here for all the details and savings.

Here is a sneak peak of a new stamp set called Apothecary Art and new designer paper called Twitterpated.

The perfectly shaped apothecary label was cut using the brand new, and wonderful, Labels Collection Framelits. These are SUPER DUPER COOL!!! For the focal of my card I used the Beautiful Wings Embosslit die. For the last detail, It is subtle, but if you look close there is a very light dusting of gold glitter which is set with a quick spray of AquaNet hairspray.

Happy Occasions Mini craftin,

Shab{by} Apothecary Art

2011-12-28T09:05:00.000-08:00

Hello and Happy December 28th!

I wanted to share a card I have sent off to a "invitational" swap I joined.  I was thrilled with the finished product and it's all thanks to the fabulous NEW stamps and accessories from Stampin' Up!  My inspiration for the start of this frilly card was this week's challenge over at The Shabby Tea Room.  I love vintage and shabby and even grungy cards so this was jivin' for me big time.

a dimensional view of the card

I used lots of new things most found in the Occasions Mini Catalog:

Apothecary Art stamp set

Labels Collection Framelits (a must have item)

Everyday Enchantment DSP (SAB catalog)

Blushing Bride Smooch Spritz

Hat Pins

Pool Party Seam Binding

Pleated Satin Ribbon

Check out the smooch spritz and hat pin!

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Fabric Friday is Back

2011-12-23T00:05:00.000-08:00

It has been on hiatus for several weeks, but Fabric Fridays are hear again. From the week before Thanksgiving until just a few days prior to Christmas my work is ultra hectic. Work is so crazy that if my head were not attached I would have misplaced it because I know I lost my mind! Now that things have returned to a more normal pace I can say "Welcome back to Fabric Friday."

I put ten of these ornaments together using the Candy Cane Designer Series Fabric, the Fabric Adhesive Roll, the Snowflake Bigz Die, and the largest Scallop Circle Bigz Die.

Here's what you do:

1. Cut a piece of the Fabric Adhesive Roll to fit a piece of Candy Cane fabric. Iron the two together on the wrong side of the fabric.

2. Run the adhesive backed fabric through the Big Shot using the Snowflake Bigz Die.

3. Cut three large scallop circles through the Big Shot. One of plain white fabric, one from a contrasting pattern of the Candy Cane, and one from wool felt.

4. Iron the snowflake to the white scallop fabric circle.

5. Layer the snowflake/white scallop on top of the wool felt and then layer those on the contrasting scallop. Pin all three layers together.

6. Cut an 8" piece of ribbon, fold it in half, tuck in between layers, and pin in place.

7. Using a contrasting thread stitch the ornament together using a 3/4" top stitch seam allowance.

8. Tie a second ribbon around the looped ribbon.

9. Hot glue a button to the center of the snowflake and then adhere a rhinestone to the button.

Merry Christmas craftin, Elizabeth

Newel's Noel

2011-12-20T07:11:00.000-08:00

My husband wanted some of his own Christmas cards so I whipped him up a set. The original design of this card was given to me in an Artisan Award Swap by Heather Van Duker. When I first saw Heather's card I was hooked and knew that I wanted to recreate a few for myself. So, I simplified Heather's design and made ten for my husband to use for his work gifts and such.

In my family we sing the chorus to The First Noel with one change to the words. Instead of singing Noel Noel... we sing Newel Newel which is my husbands name. In fact we attended a sing along on Sunday I a sang the last repeat of the chorus full out with Newel's name.

My wish for you is that you enjoy this Holiday season and all the craftin' opportunities it brings!

Merry Christmas,

A La Card Monkey Guest Artist

2011-12-16T18:00:00.000-08:00

Last week I shared that I was selected as a "Monkey Princess" over at A La Card Monkey.  Well, one of the perks of winning a challenge is that I get to be a guest designer for this week.  Their challenge this week is a double one.  They have combined a great sketch along with a birthday theme.  You would think that's piece of cake, but do you know how long it's been since I made a birthday card?  I have been in Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Halloween mode since August and switching gears just felt weird.  But once I got going it was smooth sailing.

I am loving the fresh and clean color combo of blushing bride, ivory, and baja breeze.  And to further bring those colors together I added a piece of pattern paper from Just Add Cake DSP.  The cool-awesome-adorable flower is brand spanking new product in the upcoming Occasions Mini Catalog.  This new flower pack on page 18 includes PINK BLING!  

Supplies from Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Create a Cupcake

Inks - Early Espresso & Blushing Bride Classic Inks

Papers - Blushing Bride & Ivory Naturals Card Stocks

Accessories - Pink Pirouette Taffeta Ribbon, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Itty Bitty Punch Pack, Blossom Builders

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

BLITZ

2011-12-15T09:04:00.000-08:00

I can't believe this - you have to check this out and do it FAST! This Blitz Sale has some many great things up to 80% off. You can combine BLITZ items with regular items on one order. You can earn hostess benefits beginning at $150 in purchased merchandise. Lots of full size punches in the "whale tail" style for cheap. And Designer Series Paper for just a few dollars--wahoo (Love Letter and Wicked Cool are in there as of this morning). Blitz items may only be ordered ONLINE because inventory is LIMITED! Pick up some great finds HERE! Click on the "Shop Now" button to get them before they're all gone.

Happy sale shoppin', Elizabeth

Dearest Day of All the Year...

2011-12-14T08:43:00.000-08:00

...December the 25th! 

I enjoy adding numbers to cards as focal points.  Some numbers you can do are birthday ages, 31 for Halloween, 14 for Valentines, 17 if you're big into corned beef and beer, 4 to celebrate Independence Day, and 25 for Christmas.

Backed with the First Edition DSP, I really like how the Red Glimmer Paper "25" stands out on this card.  A bit unusual for me I mixed ivory with white.  I am not a fan of mixing neautrals, but in this case and a few others it works.  A few days ago I had mentioned in a comment that I left on a blog how much I like red and blue as Christmas colors.  They are so vibrant, fresh, and cool which is perfect for winter.

If you have been following my blog you will know that Shirley has been having a Winter Wednesday Blog Hop.  This is the last week of the hop.  So, take a journey and check out some fun holiday themed projects.  And then you too can join the hop ;0) 

Want to join the fun? Here is what you have to do.

1. Anything goes, Card, 3D project it just has to be Christmas. 2. Add badge to post with link back to Shirley's blog.

3. Has to be a new post.

4. Add the hop to your post.  You can find the code at the bottom of my post.

All Supplies from Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Petite Pairs

Inks - Real Red & Basic Black Stampin' Write Markers

Papers - Ivory Naturals, Basic Black, Baja Breeze, & Very Vanilla Card Stocks, First Edition DSP, Red Glimmer Paper

Accessories - Simple Alphabet Numbers Bigz Dies, Itty Bitty Punch Pack, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Punch, Framed Tulips Embossing Folder, Winter Wishes Felt Accents, Blue Taffeta Ribbon, Basic Rhinestones, Gold Ultrafine Glitter 

Happy Christmas craftin, Elizabeth

A Christmas Case

2011-12-14T07:13:00.000-08:00

I have seen lots of gingerbread houses on some AMAZING blogs and I decided to make one of my own. I borrowed some very crafty ideas from a beautiful blog I found while surfing and I can't remember where. If you know I would sure love to credit the designer. I must say this took some time, but it was worth it--it's so stinkin' cute!

Merry Christmas craftin, Elizabeth

Church Ladies Tag

2011-12-12T07:07:00.000-08:00

Some friends of mine were just chatting about the Church Lady, aka Dana Carvey, the other day and how much we missed those SNL sketches. As I was designing this tag for a make and take for my church ladies this Tuesday night I kept saying to myself "could it be Satan?" all the while hearing Dana Carvey.

I had no clue what I wanted to do for this little project. My only guideline was it needed to be a tag. I kept putting off getting this craft together because I was just coming up empty until I saw this FABULOUS color combo challenge over at Hand Stamped Sentiments. I mean this is my kind of color palette. As I was finally getting my act together and my mojo flowing my only problem was the green was just not fitting into the tag anywhere. It was giving me fits, so I took it out! In the end I guess I bombed the challenge, but isn't it an adorable tag?

Supplies

Stamps - Winter Post

Inks - Real Red Craft & Classic, Soft Suede Classic

Paper - Crumb Cake, Real Red, Blushing Bride, Pool Party, & Very Vanilla Card Stock, Subtles Designer Series Paper Stack

Accessories - Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, 1 3/4" Circle Punch, 1/2" Circle Punch, Oval Punch, Large Scallop Punch, Oval Scallop Punch, Snowflake Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals

Non-SU! - Red gems, various ribbons

'Tis the Season To Be Jolly

2011-12-11T09:15:00.001-08:00

I had some fun entering a few sketch challenges over the past few days and guess what? A couple of my creations were selected as "favorites!" (wahoo, happy dance)

This one over at Hand Stamped Sentiments and Cute Stuff by Shirley. And this one at A La Card Monkey. I so appreciate the honor of being a favorite--thank you!

Again, many thanks and happy craftin, Elizabeth

Merry Christmas Mittens

2011-12-06T19:50:00.001-08:00

It's Wednesday and cool outside, so you know what that means...It is time for Shirley's Winter Wednesday Blog Hop! And to help me out with a cute Christmas time creation...a layout from A La Card Monkey.

Here is my, what I call my Merry Christmas Mittens card. I have mixed it up with the gorgeous Holly Berry Bouquet DSP, which I have to say has TOTALLY grown on me. When I first saw the designs I was not thrilled--then I used it and two whole packs later I have only a few scraps left.

Supplies from Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Christmas Greetings

Inks - Wild Wasabi

Papers - Holly Berry Bouquet DSP, Very Vanilla & Real Red Cardstocks

Accessories - Winter Wishes Felt Accents, Holly Berry Bouquet Designer Buttons, Subtles Glimmer Brads, Neutrals 3/8" Brads, (leftover ribbon from a dollar bin, it was sitting on my table ;0)

Merry Christmas card makin', Elizabeth

Sense of Shabby & Vintage

2011-12-05T07:43:00.001-08:00

If you know me you are aware that I have a total love for anything vintage.  I guess it's the soft color palettes and glints of glimmering glitter that get me.  I also love how it brings me back to a time where the fashion styles were some of my favorites.

In any case today I am sharing a card which gives a slight nod to vintage with the use of pink, gold, and soft green, with touches of pearls, glitter, and an old piece of text paper.

I am also sharing this card on one of my favorite blogs that I like to visit called the Shabby Tea Room. Click over there if you love making cards that are vintage and shabby--it's the place for you.

Supplies are from Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Christmas Greetings, Tree Trimmings

Inks - Jet Black Staz On, Pink Pirouette & Certainly Celery Classic Inks

Paper - Brushed Gold, Very Vanilla, & Ivory Naturals Cardstocks, First Edition DSP

Accessories - Pink Pirouette Taffeta & Scallop Dots Ribbons, Basic Pearls, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Stampin' Dimensionals

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

You've Got to Pack a Pocket or Two

2011-11-30T06:39:00.000-08:00

"You've got to pack a pocket or two" are not the words of the Artful Dodger, but instead of a happy gift giver! These Petite Pockets are the perfect size for packing with a gift card of any amount. I love the bright yet cool color combination for this Petite Pocket as it just screams winter to me. And the use of the mitten thread to wrap around the closures to anchor the flap shut tight is if I might say "totally adorable."

Check out a few fun challenges for this week at Hand Stamped Sentiments and Shirley's Winter Wednesday Blog Hop. If you have been thinking about adding your Christmas creation to Shirley's hop--do it. I am waiting to see what your making :0) Over at Hand Stamped Sentiments their theme is Anything But a Card. Go check stuff out and do a little Christmas surfin'.

Supplies are from Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Petite Pairs

Inks - Basic Black & Real Red Markers

Paper - Baja Breeze & Very Vanilla Cardstocks, Holly Berry Bouquet DSP

Accessories - Petite Pockets Bigz XL Die, Subtles Brads, Basic Rhinestones, Winter Wishes Felt Accents, Modern Label & 1/2" Circle Punches

Merry Christmas craftin', Elizabeth

Tags, Tags, and More Tags

2011-11-26T07:30:00.001-08:00

This year I am not leaving all my wrapping for Christmas Eve. Giving presents their presence is something I really enjoy, so this year I want to have plenty of time and adornments for each gift I wrap. For today I am showing my first batch of gift tags.

For these tags I used both shapes from the Two Tags Bigz Die through my Big Shot. The red pattern paper is from the Brights Designer Stack and the white layer is not your average cardstock, it's the gorgeous Shimmer White cardstock. For the tree I used the Pennant Parade stamp set along with the coordinating Pennant Builder Punch. For the greeting I used the Many Merry Messages stamp set which is an awesome grouping of images.

Come back for more gift wrap tags and embellishments. For now check out all the Winter Wednesday blog hoppers by clicking on their links below. It would also be really cool if you added your latest Christmas creation to the hop. Check out Shirley's blog for the instructions. It's easy and fun!

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Turkey Day?

2011-11-22T09:45:00.000-08:00

I know Thanksgiving is sometimes called turkey day, but I don't know why I call it that. I am not a fan of turkey at all. I love all the yummy Thanksgiving fixin's, but the bird itself pales in comparison to the glorious prime rib roast that we serve. So, from this day forward I shall not call it turkey day instead I'll say "beef day."

My autumn Thanksgiving inspired card was cased from the awesome Tami W. I love the mixture of Spice Cake DSP with the Hello Doily background stamp. Adding the Ivory Velvet Ribbon with Silver Glimmer Paper punch accents make this card gorgeous. I do have to share that I really like the look of adding text to cards, it just lends a finishing visual layer. The "With Love" greeting is one of four pieces from the Hand Penned stamp set from the Holiday Mini Catalog. It's a beauty of a stamp set and is a must have item for your collection.

Here's how you make the Box Pleats for a 4 1/4" wide card:

Cuta strip of designer paper or cardstock 1.5” x 9”.
Using the Simply Scored Tool score the strip at 1”, 1.25”,2”, 2.25”, 3”, 3.25”, 4”, 4.25”, 5”, 5.25”, 6”, 6.25”, 7”, 7.25”, 8”, and8.25”.
Fold on the scorelines byfolding the first score back and the second forward, then the third scoreshould fold forward and the fourth should fold back. Repeat this pattern to form the box pleats.
Glue pleats in place.
Align folded pleats on cardfront, adhere to card, and trim sides where needed.

Happy craftin' and have a filling BEEF day, Elizabeth

SALE SALE SALE!!!

2011-11-21T07:43:00.000-08:00

There are lots and lots of great items on SALE, but two of Stampin' Up!'s brand-new products will be discounted 20 percent only during the first 24 hours of the sale
(November 21, midnight - 11:59 PM [MT]):

Simply Scored
Regular Price $29.95, 24-Hour Sale Price $23.96

Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps
Regular Price $16.95, 24-Hour Sale Price $13.56

You can visit my Online Store (click on the "Shop Now" button once there)
to see all discounted products or view this PDF .

Happy craft shoppin', Elizabeth

Winter Wishes Wreath

2011-11-19T05:36:00.000-08:00

Have you checked out the Winter Wishes felt accents in the Holiday Mini Catalog? You get four each of mittens, snowflakes, holly & berries, and wreaths. They are super charming and add a quick touch of whimsy and dimension to any Christmas card or tag.

My layout for this card was inspired by this week's Connie and Mary sketch challenge. You can also use this sketch for your next project and then show it off on their website ;0)

Click, visit, be inspired, stamp, upload! That's all you have to do.

My card base is made from Naturals Ivory cardstock, the DSP is Holly Berry Bouquet, the stamps are Petite Pairs, the embossed border is made with the Framed Tulips folder, and the wreath is from the Winter Wishes pack of felt accents. The final details to finish the card are a couple Basic Pearls, a tiny Cherry Cobbler Bakers Twine bow, and a dusting of gold glitter.

Happy card makin',

Fabric Friday

2011-11-17T21:30:00.000-08:00

Welcome to another installment of Fabric Friday! This JOY banner whipped together pretty fast for me thanks to the help of the Perfect Pennants Bigz L Die. I cut six rectangles of the Candy Cane Designer Series Fabric and three rectangles of Fabric Adhesive larger than the pennant shape. With the Fabric Adhesive I fused two of pieces of fabric together and repeated that with the remaining four pieces. Once I had my three fused rectangles I ran them through the Big Shot to cut the pennant shapes.

To string my pennants together I stitched a long strip of Twill Tape across the top of the pieces. The JOY letters were cut from Red Glimmer Paper and the Serif Alphabet Bigz Dies. Just a few buttons, snowflakes, and rhinestones to finish off the banner and I was done! It's the perfect size for embellishing a mirror or maybe a wreath.

Join the fun over at Shirley's Christmas Blog Hop...here is all you have to do:

1. Add above badge to your post with link back to Shirley's blog.

2. Anything goes, it just has to be Christmas.

3. Has to be a new post.

4. Add the Hop to your Post

Happy fabric craftin, Elizabeth

Ice Ice Baby

2011-11-14T08:33:00.000-08:00

Inspired by the Stampin' Success, a monthly publication for Stampin' Up! demonstrators, I put together this festive Christmas box.  The box is made with two pieces cut from the Favor Box Bigz XL Die for the Big Shot.  Just slip one inside the other and there you have a box!

I used the Bells and Boughs stamp set, Pool Party Classic Ink, Real Red Craft Ink, and Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder.  This embossing powder is MEGA GORGEOUS.  It's clear mixed with Dazzling Diamonds glitter and so perfect for anything, especially holiday projects.

I have added my box to Shirley's Christmas Blog Hop and you can too.

Shirley's Christmas Blog Hop...want to join the fun, here is all you have to do.

1. Add above badge to your post with link back to Shirley's blog.

2. Anything goes, it just has to be Christmas.

3. Has to be a new post.

4. Add the Hop to your Post

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Fabric Friday A Framed Table Setting

2011-11-11T00:05:00.000-08:00

Today is an exciting day as I have created a special Fabric Friday post for Passionately Artistic, a weekly linking party. Pop over there and join in the fun.

One of my favorite things to do during the Holidays is designing table settings for fancy dinners. For this year I wanted to do something entirely different from what I usually do. Instead of chargers under the dinner plates and namecards placed at each setting I thought I would combine the two within a frame.

First I found an old ratty 11" x 17" frame which was in need of a face lift and then I gave it a quick coat of Heirloom White spray paint. For the base of the frame I wrapped a piece of tea stained muslin around a piece of 10 7/8" x 16 7/8" foam core board. To help the fabric stay in place I used batting adhesive on the front side of the foam core and cloth tape on the back.

Next I stenciled a pattern on to the muslin using Craft Pigment Ink in Certainly Celery and Chocolate Chip. For the name I backed a piece of Spice Cake Designer Series Fabric with iron on fabric adhesive. Then I cut the letters out of the fabric using the Alphabet Simple Bigz Dies and my Big Shot. Then I peeled the adhesive backing and ironed the letters on the muslin.

To set the table I layered a green bamboo place mat under the frame and then placed my dishes. I played with the direction of which way to place the frame. I like it with the silver ware on and off the frame. Either direction works for me and it will depend on what I come up with for the centerpiece. To pump up the napkin I quickly snipped and ripped an 18" square of another pattern from the Spice Cake Designer Series Fabric and layered it on top of a soft blue 22" square napkin. For the napkin ring I cut a couple tags from the coordinating Spice Cake Designer Series Paper and a banner greeting from the Hand Penned Holidays stamp set. I love how the text adds a little something something that just finishes the look.

Well, now I am off to Good Will to find five more frames, enough for our Thanksgiving dinner. Come back for more!

Happy fabric craftin, Elizabeth

Folded Frame For Dimension

2011-11-09T08:36:00.000-08:00

With the woodgrain pattern paper from the Frostwood Lodge DSP I created a fun frame with just a few quick folds to showcase my focal point. All you do is score 1/8" and 1/4" on all four sides, snip out the four corners, then fold up on the 1/4" and back on the 1/8" scorelines.

My favorite part of the card is the added bling (Basic Rhinestones) which peak through the Mica Flakes. The Quilted Ribbon also adds a soft texture and a welcoming feeling. The images are all from the Christmas Lodge stamp set. When I work with this set I always seem to want to layer the images. It just jives for me and makes me a happy stamper. Embossing folders also make me a happy stamper. The base of this card was textured with the new Starburst folder from the Holiday Mini Catalog.

Happy Christmas card makin', Elizabeth

Convention Inspired

2011-11-07T17:18:00.000-08:00

For today I thought I would share another card crafted by the amazing Julie Beltramo.  She and I both loved a card very similar to this one which was demonstrated at Convention this past summer.  I am so glad to have received this one in our swap.

Julie used the Stitched Stockings stamp set and the coordinating Stockings Builder Punch.  When we swap we do things a bit different that the regular ol' swap.  There are eight to nine of us in the swap and each of us is assigned a stamp set to feature on our swaps.  With that set we make four different designs and then copy them eight to nine times for every one in the swap.  In the end I receive up to 36 beautiful full cards to showcase new stamp sets in the mini catalogs.  Julie's set was Stitched Stockings.  I have one more of hers to share, but I'll save that for another day.

Enjoy, Elizabeth

P.S. Fabric Friday will return this week. Look for a new and special Spice Cake fabric project set to post on 11/11!

Way Too CA YOOT!

2011-11-02T17:59:00.000-07:00

Can you say Ca Yoot? This card is super-uber cute and perfect for a brand new baby girl. Put together by my superfriend Julie B., this card was made using the Stitched Stockings stamp set and the Stocking Builder Punch. She has also used the Subtles Designer Series Paper Stack along with a panel of Whisper White cardstock. The adorable clothes pin detail is also from Stampin' Up! You can find them in the Idea Book and Catalog.

Hey Ghoulfriends Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T00:05:00.000-07:00

Today is the day of tricks and treats so I must say "Happy Haunting Everyone!" 

There is one last Monday Monster Mash Halloween Countdown blog hop hosted by Shirley.  Click here to jump to her blog and join in the fun.

I have one last card to share and it features the Piece of Poison stamp set.  My colors include Basic Gray, Concord Crush, Lucky Limeade, Calypso Coral, and White Confetti.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Whipped Up and Wrapped in Minutes

2011-10-29T00:05:00.000-07:00

When you have the right stuff you can whip up a perfectly wrapped gift in no time at all. I have used just a few accessories from Stampin' Up! that coordinate with total ease to wrap a gift fit for a queen. First I layered Wild Wasabi Cardstock under the polka dotted print from the Holly Berry Bouquet DSP. Then I added the layers to the sides and top of a Kraft Box. Next I brought Real Red 5/8" Satin Ribbon up and around the sides and tied the top with a six loop bow. What brings the box to life are the two candy canes which I made using the Stocking Accents Bigz Die. A quick banner and a Winter Wishes Stitched Felt accent finishes the box for a completely cute touch.

Today there are some super SUPER boxes, bags, and tags posted over at Create With Connie and Mary. All of the Designers have made something special to share with you all. We have just completed the Six Week Holiday Edition of Create With Connie and Mary and it was a total blast. If you didn't subscribe it is NOT TOO LATE. You can subscribe and have access to all 36+ tutorials as they are kept on the site long after the Edition is over. This way you can refer back to all the projects 24/7! We had 6 weeks of exclusive samples with step-by-step tutorials featuring the products in the Stampin' Up! Holiday 2011 Mini brochure.

***************

Supplies from Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Christmas Lodge

Inks - Real Red Stampin' Write Marker

Papers - Real Red, Wild Wasabi, & Very Vanilla Cardstocks, Holly Berry Bouquet DSP, Silver Glimmer Paper

Accessories - Kraft Stampin' Boxes, Real Red 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Stocking Accents Bigz Die, Winter Wishes Stitched Felt

Happy gift makin' & wrappin',

Fabric Friday

2011-10-28T00:05:00.000-07:00

How about a trio of trees made with the Holly Berry Bouquet Designer Fabrics as part of your holiday decor.  For these I cut the heart shapes using the Petal Cone Bigz L Die.  Each up-side-down heart is backed with wool felt.  The trees are based on 3/8" x 12" wooden dowels and then ever so slightly stuffed with poly fiber fill.

The  wooden dowels fit perfectly in some wooden spools I found at the craft  store which I think makes for pretty stinkin' cute bases.  A few buttons  give a little added bit of decor, yet still allow the fabric to remain  the "star of the show."  It's tricky to see in the photos that these are two sided.  Each inverted heart/row of branches includes fabric, wool felt, another layer of wool felt, and then fabric.

Happy Christmas craftin',

The Stockings Were Hung ...

2011-10-26T00:05:00.000-07:00

... by the chimney with care by Julie B.  My sweet and amazing friend put this card together and check the detail.  She used the Simply Scored tool to make a background of bricks!  And then she displayed these adorable stockings which she punched out using the new Stocking Builder Punch.

This week over at the Create With Connie and Mary Holiday Edition we are featuring the Stitched Stockings & Dear Santa stamp sets, the Stockings Builder Punch, the Holiday Stocking & Stockings Accent Bigz Dies, and the From Santa A la Carte stamp.  Let me tell you that yesterday's project designed by Sandra Farrell is WAY GORGEOUS!!!  It's not too late you can still subscribe to the Holiday Edition of Create With Connie and Mary (details found on the top of the right of their sidebar).

Another Something to Crow About

2011-10-24T16:33:00.000-07:00

I had several extra crows from the Dollar Tree hangin' out just beggin' to be decorated.  So, I got busy and gussied up another little something to crow about.  I mentioned earlier in a post that I was totally intrigued by the crow pictured in the Holiday Mini Catalog.  I had to copy it which I did several times.  Well, the other day I was inspired to make another crow and use up some leftover papers from last year called Dark and Dreary.  The DSP collections from 2010 were as amazing as this years patterns.

I know, I know I am getting a bit wack-o about glitter, but I do have a tip for you.  I always seem to want to add a few bits of bling after I have glittered my project and they never stick.  So, add any rhinestones or pearls first before you glitter.  And just as a reminder I like to spray cheap hair spray, then sprinkle the glitter, and then add another light coat of hair spray.  My friends and I call it the "spray sprinkle spray" method.

Now it's time to check out Shirley's Monday Monster Mash Halloween Count Down for this week. The big day is drawing near! Can't wait for Halloween. I am going to watch scary movies and eat lots of goodies AKA crap.

Supplies

Stamps - Piece of Poison

Inks - Jet Black Staz On

Papers - Dark and Dreary (retired), Whisper White Cardstock, Black Waffle Paper (retired)

Accessories - Decor Block, Simply Scored, Basic Rhinestones, Black Lace Ribbon (retired), Dazzling Diamonds Glitter

Non SU! - Crow, Cheap Hair Spray

Happy Halloween craftin, Elizabeth

Cool and Frosted

2011-10-22T00:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to such inspiring products from Stampin Up! we can create works of happiness. This card, which I put together for the Saturday challenge over at Create With Connie and Mary, totally reminds me of being at a cabin up in the snow. I started with the snowy cabin image which is chilly and cool. I stamped it twice on a piece of Frostwood Lodge DSP. I cut out just the cabin and added it directly on top of the second image with dimensionals. The last thing I added to this card was a few layers of glitter, which for me is the frosting. I added a thick layer of glitter to the roof of the cabin and then a random dusting to the entire card. I do believe I should attend GA (Glitterers Anonymous). My favorite, yet totally random and unplanned, element of this card is the embossed snowflake on the top of the tree. Can you say meant to be?

I mentioned that I made this for a challenge over at Create With Connie and Mary. Each of the Holiday Edition Designers have designed cards using this very same sketch (CCMC HOL5). Now jump on over to the Create site to see more cards featuring this versatile layout.

Stamps - Christmas Lodge

Inks - Garden Green, Early Espresso, & Cherry Cobbler

Paper - Early Espresso Cardstock & Frostwood Lodge DSP

Accessories - Northern Flurry Embossing Folder, Cherry Cobbler Quilted Ribbon, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter

Fabric Friday

2011-10-21T14:52:00.000-07:00

A while back I posted a table runner (click here to check it out) made from the Deck the Halls Designer Series Fabric. When I was finished I had a few extra pieces cut from the Pennant Bigz XL Die as leftovers, so I decided to throw together a pillow. Once I had pieced everything together I pressed open the seams and then traced the shape to make a pattern for the back of the pillow. I used wool felt for the back and cheapy poly fiber fill to stuff the pillow. A fabric rosette finished off the center tuft.

Happy stitchin', Elizabeth

Back View

Top View Close Up

Seam Detail, Side View

Leftovers and Like It Hallowreath

2011-10-20T14:33:00.000-07:00

When I was little my brother and I would ask what was for dinner and every time the answer was something like "leftovers and like it" or "fix it and find out."  This medallion wreath is definitely a "leftovers and like it" bit of fun.  My mom had a bunch of pieces of Designer Series Papers from last years Stampin Up! catalogs that I had fun working with.  

I based these medallions on a 12" flat wood craft ring.  In total there 28 are medallions ranging from 6" down to 2" across.  I used a few of the green buttons from the Holly Berry Bouquet Designer Button pack and several pink/purple buttons from the Bright pack.  I love the added Glimmer Brads from the neutrals and brights collections.  And yes, I just had to grab my glitter and hair spray to give it the holiday decor finishing touch.  I just can help myself ;0)

Follow Shirley's Monday Monster Mash Countdown blog hop, or join along and share your Halloween masterpiece. 

Happy Halloween craftin, Elizabeth

A Cabin Christmas

2011-10-17T00:05:00.000-07:00

The Frostwood Lodge Suite is being featured this week over at Create with Connie and Mary Holiday Edition. This new suite is a perfect collection of everything woodsy and cozy. The Designer Series Paper patterns remind me of Christmas time at the cabin, seeing snow all around while sitting on the hearth by a big crackling fire, and hours of card games.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Gorgeous Reds with Wasabi

2011-10-15T00:05:00.000-07:00

Check this color combination challenge from Create With Connie and Mary--it's Cherry Cobbler, Real Red, and Wild Wasabi. The two reds together are super gorgeous and the green adds a splash of fun.

For my color challenge card I chose to use the Holly Berry Bouquet DSP layered onto a Cherry Cobbler card panel. Typically with this DSP I would have grabbed a piece of Real Red and not Cherry Cobbler, but that is what these color challenges are all about. They are to help us think outside the box. And I am jazzed with how this all came together.

Supplies

Stamps - Hand Penned Holidays

Inks - Early Espresso

Papers - Cherry Cobbler Cardstock, Holly Berry Bouquet DSP

Accessories - Winter Wishes Stitched Felt, Mini Jingle Bells, Real Red Satin Ribbon, Snow Burst Embossing Folder, Cherry Cobbler Bakers Twine, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Mini Brads

Happy craftin,

Fabric Friday

2011-10-13T22:00:00.000-07:00

As of 1/27/12 a tutorial is available for this apron please click to here for the link.

How about a demi apron for the holidays made from the Holly Berry Bouquet Designer Fabrics from Stampin' Up!? This apron is fully lined with a contrasting fabric and is totally adorable with the rows of ruffles and buttons.

To easily cut the scallop edged ruffles I used the Perfect Setting Bigz Die (retired) from Stampin' Up! I placed a fold on the edge of the cupcake cozy section of the die to get a double wide scallop piece. Then I stitched three of those pieces together to form one long scalloped strip. After I gathered the strips to fit the front of the apron and top stitched them on with out turning under any edges--I wanted the shabbiness. I did this with each print to create three ruffled rows.

For a fun added element I hand-stitched a row of coordinating buttons to the top row of ruffles.  Once I had the front of the apron completed I cut a piece of contrasting fabric to fully line the back and to add visual and actual weight to the overall piece.  I stitched the right sides together, clipped and trimmed the curves, turned it right sides out, pressed, and then top stitched all around the outside edge.  

For the waist band and apron ties I cut three strips of a second contrasting fabric.  The middle strip was lined with interfacing while the sides were not.  The entire waistband/ties were pressed and then top stitched to complete the apron.

For added fun I included a hand stamped tag.  I used a woodsheet, a little cardstock, and the stamp set called Creatively Yours.  I clipped the tag onto the top of the waistband with a Vintage Trinket pin adn then the apron was ready to give as a gift.

Hop on over to Passionately Artistic and Simply Designing for fun linking parties to see more clever hand made ideas. 

Happy stitchin', Elizabeth

Framed for Halloween

2011-10-12T10:23:00.000-07:00

Click on over to Cute Stuff by Shirley or join in the blog hop below for some Halloween fun.

A while back when my friends and I did the Santa Clara Scrapbook Expo at the end of setting the booth up we realized we needed just a few more items to fill a couple holes.  So, we put this frame together in just a matter of a few minutes.  We cased one of the samples for the Piece of Poison suite found in the Holiday Mini catalog and tweaked it just a bit to work in a frame.  

I really like the piece of flocked DSP from Morning Mocha which backs the entire frame.  It reminds me of wallpaper in a scary funeral parlor.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

An Amazing Card by Kaylene

2011-10-10T00:05:00.000-07:00

This week over at Create with Connie and Mary Holiday Edition 2011 we are featuring the Holly Berry Bouquet Suite in the Holiday Mini. This new suite is a great throwback to Christmas of yester-year which stirs up so many memories of past seasons. I just love the fabric, the dsp, the designer buttons, and ribbons of this suite and you will too!

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

My Favorite Style--Vintage

2011-10-08T00:05:00.000-07:00

If you didn't know, over at Create with Connie and Mary, Saturdays are a special days during the Mini Catalog Edition Subscriptions. Each Saturday we all play along with either a sketch, color, or theme challenge. Everyone can see the Design Team Saturday Challenge cards, but only SUBSCRIBERS can enter the challenges! Each time a subscriber enters a challenge, their name is entered into a drawing at the end of the Edition. Prizes include two $75 Stampin' Up! Gift Certificates and two FREE subscriptions to Create with Connie and Mary Occasions 2012 Edition. The only way to be entered into these drawings is to participate in the Saturday Challenges and you MUST be a subscriber. There are five challenges total and this is the third one!

The challenge this week is Christmas cards that are extra special! Now I decided to design a card that uses my favorite stamp style images, something vintage.

Supplies

Stamps - Greeting Card Kids, Christmas Lodge
Inks - Jet Black Staz On, Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive, Baja Breeze, & Crumb Cake
Paper - Crumb Cake, Cherry Cobbler, & Very Vanilla Cardstocks, First Edition DSP, Woodsheets
Accessories - 2 1/2" Circle Punch, Starburst Embossing Folder, Basic Pearls, Ivory Velvet Ribbon, Cherry Cobbler Bakers Twine, Stampin' Dimensionals

Happy Christmas card makin',

Fabric Friday

2011-10-07T00:05:00.000-07:00

And now I give to you "Part Two" of last week's "Part One" Fabric Friday.

And now for some close up pictures of the bracelet.

And even closer views of each windowpane.

One last view of the entire windowpane bracelet all packed, wrapped, and ready to give as a gift.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Simple Scaredy Cat

2011-10-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

Sometimes simplicity is so effective.  I love the ease of this card's layout, but look close and check out the details.  First, I inked up the Spider Web embossing folder with Basic Gray ink before I ran it through the Big Shot.  I think that touch adds a fun dimension.  I also just barely sponged the edges of the focal point to bring out the aged appearance.

Now I also have to share a secret.  I rarely clean my stamps.  I was  planning to just stamp the cat.  So, I inked it up with a marker,  huffed, and then stamped.  To my surprise I also got the words, but  lighter.  I thought it was cool so I kept it.

Take a look at Shirley's Monster Mash

blog hop, or play along and add your hand made Halloween work of art.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Inspired by a Crow

2011-10-03T00:05:00.000-07:00

At Convention last summer I saw this super cool crow on display. On page 10 of the Holiday Mini Catalog is the very crow that was on display in the "Product Park." When I got home I did make a crow of my own which I TOTALLY cased every detail.

From the crow I was inspired to make lots more Halloween decor featuring the great Pick Your Poison DSP and Quick Accents with the Piece of Poison stamps.  I had a blast.  I thought it would be fun to jsut load up this post with pictures of a few things on my mantel that I made these past few weeks.

 Enjoy and happy Halloween craftin, Elizabeth

It's Puffy

2011-10-01T00:05:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Saturday! Today is a color combination challenge over at the Holiday Edition of Create with Connie and Mary and it's a good one!!!

What's not to love about Soft Suede mixed with Pool Party and Pear Pizzaz? I could live in those colors. Actually I do.

For this card I used a teeny bit of Poly Fiber Fill layered under the Spice Cake fabric. Then I quilted the center with a needle and Linen Thread through a flower button. It's pretty cool in person.

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Supplies

Papers: Soft Suede and Very Vanilla Cardstock, Spice Cake DSP

Accessories: Spice Cake Designer Fabric, 2 3/8" Scallop Punch, Five Petal Punch, Tasteful Trim Bigz XL Die, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Neutrals Buttons, Linen Thread, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter

Happy craftin'

Fabric Friday

2011-09-30T00:05:00.000-07:00

Today's Fabric Friday is a two-part post.  This week I am sharing what I call an envelope clutch.  You could use it as just a clutch, or tie it with a bit of ribbon and add a tag.  Then you have the perfect gift wrap and you can give two gifts in one!  Next week you'll see what was packaged inside.

To make the envelope clutch start by snipping and ripping two squares of fabric the same size.  I used the Spice Cake Designer Fabric from Stampin' Up!  With wrong sides together use the Fabric Adhesive Roll and and iron the two pieces to each other.  On your work surface turn the fused fabric square so it is placed "on point."  Fold the side points/corners inward, fold the bottom point/corner up, press flat, and then use strips of Adhesive Roll to fuse the envelope in place.  Press the top point/corner to finish the envelope.

For the flower I used six pieces of the scallop shapes from the Perfect Pennant Bigz L Die.  First get the pieces soaking wet then ring out the excess water.  On a terry cloth towel rub the scallops to fray the edges.  Wrinkle and crunch the flowers, spray with starch, and let air dry.  If you are in a hurry you can put them in the oven at 200' for about ten minutes.  Once the scallops are dry, layer them on an Antique Brad.  Hot glue the flower to the front flap of the envelope.

I tied the envelope clutch with Victoria Crochet Ribbon and added a gift tag.  The tiny tag is a simple one inch square of woodsheet stamped with a greeting from Creatively Yours.  I slipped the tiny tag in an envelope made with the Petal Card Double Punch.  A flower and pearl finish it all off.

Have a totally stichin' weekend, Elizabeth

P.S.  All the Create with Connie and Mary projects feature the fall products from the Holiday Mini Catalog.  Join today and see all the tutorials!

Rich-Lucious-Gorgeous

2011-09-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

This stunningly beautiful card was made by my great stampin' friend from Iowa Dena R. I love the texture in the scallop layers of DSP and the ribbon. It's so SO pretty--it is velvet. You can find it in the Holiday Mini Catalog along with the DSP and stamp sets, Gently Falling and Hand Penned Holidays.

On Create with Connie and Mary Holiday Edition, we are featuring fall and Thanksgiving products from the Holiday Mini this week. The thing is though you must be a subscriber to see them! At a price of $34.95 US for the six weeks means 36 step-by-step tutorials…that is less than $1 a day for great ideas to use in your stamp camps or to make as gifts!

Happy fall stampin',

Elizabeth

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Scaredy Cat

2011-09-27T08:43:00.000-07:00

I really like how this card turned out.  The tag greeting was inspired by the indian colored candy corn and I think it is pretty cool looking.  But, what I really like is the spider wed background. 

I love when you take a simple technique and it looks like a million bucks.  I embossed the spider web and then took a sanding block to the raised edges to reveal the white core of the Pick Your Poison DSP.

Another really cool trick that I have been doing like crazy on everything right now (I am a bit addicted) is what I call "Glitter Sanding."

All you need for this technique is SUPER CHEAP hairspray and Dazzling Diamonds Glitter.  I put mine in a salt shaker for lighter applications.  For heavier sanded looking glitter I pick up the glitter with my finger tips right out of a Gladware container.  First spray your project with hairspray then sprinkle the glitter, then spray one more time.  It's that easy and looks great for holiday projects.

To check out more Halloween themed ideas head over to Hand Stamped Sentiments and see whats going on!

Happy Halloween craftin, Elizabeth

A Saturday Challenge

2011-09-24T00:05:00.000-07:00

It is Saturday today and that means it's time for a challenge over at Create with Connie and Mary. Click right here and see more cards featuring this layout and then enter your own card too.

My card is a bit twisted and cuckoo, but that works perfect for Halloween. Back when I was a kid we had these extra large cardboard skeletons with hinged limbs. You could pose the skeleton in all kinds of contortions. I thought I was so clever to put one hand on his head and one on his hip. With that in mind I decided to emboss the skeleton from the Piece of Poison stamp set, cut it out, and then chop it up and amputate it. I used mini brads (which are ultra mini) to hinge and put him all back together so I could pose the skeleton to show off the "trick or treat" banner.

One thing I like to do with Halloween stuff is to add cobwebs. To do this I get my hot glue gun ready, squirt glue on a grubby sponge, pounce a second old sponge on top and back and forth, then pull the sponges apart to create "spidery" webs. Wrap and stretch them across your card!

Don't forget to check out more Halloween cards at Create with Connie and Mary.

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Stampin' Supplies

Stamps: Piece of Poison

Ink: Versamark

Papers: Basic Gray, Wild Wasabi, & Very Vanilla Cardstocks, Pick Your Poison DSP, and Pick Your Poison Quick Accents

Accessories: Letterpress Plate, Sponges, Decorative Label Punch, Wild Wasabi & tangerine Tango Embossing Powders, Mini Brads, Basic Rhinestones

Other: Hot Glue Gun

Happy craftin,

Fabric Friday

2011-09-23T00:05:00.000-07:00

If you remember from a previous Fabric Friday post I said I was sharing some upcycled blue jean fabric projects.  Here is what I said on 8/19/11:

"For today I am sharing 'Part Three' of the old jeans that were recycled into cute things. Last week I shared the jeans apron which was 'Part Two.' I have yet to show 'Part One' but I promise you'll see that project too. I am just feeling a little like George Lucas ;0)

So now in keeping with the spirit of the re-release of Star Wars, I give you "Blue Jeans, A New Use" or "Part One."

Of the three recycled jean projects this was the first thing I made--a blue jeans bag.  I started by chopping the legs off of the pants.  I had planned to simply stitch the new bottom together, however it did not lay flat.  To correct that I picked the stitches out of the crotch seam far enough to adjust the front pieces so everything would lay flat.  It sounds complicated but it was truly only about a two minute fix.

I covered two sizes of buttons with the Flirtatious Designer Fabric from Stampin' Up! to totally jazz up the front of the bag.  More Flirtatious fabric was used to make a simple long sash for threading through the belt loops.  I covered a yard of canvas strapping with more fabric for the shoulder strap.  If you look close you'll see a single line of top stitching to anchor the inner strap in place.

Just for fun and flair I added a cute tag one of the front belt loops. I used the stamp set called Creatively Yours which is such a great collection of images. They are all absolutely perfect for this upcoming season with all the hand crafting.

If you enjoy looking at other hand crafted projects there are fun linking parties over at Passionately Artistic and The Shabby Nest.

Happy stitchin', Elizabeth

Halloween is Coming!

2011-09-20T11:27:00.000-07:00

I totally get into making Halloween things.  I like making all sorts of things like cards and treats, or decorations perfect for the season.  I think it's because I like the colors and the fact that the shabbier, grubbier, and sparklier the better!

My card today was one I sent out in a swap. I used the Piece of Poison stamp set and the Trick of Treat Letterpress Plate.  Stay tuned for a quick and simple step by step tutorial using multiple embossing plates.  

I do have to share with you that this week at Create with Connie and Mary all of the projects are showcasing the Halloween products (my favorites) in the Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog.  There is a new project and tutorial each day.  It's not too late to join.

My project over at Create with Connie and Mary will post on Friday and it is WAY TOO COOL.  I used lots of things from the Holiday Mini.  It's all Halloween, it sparkles and shines, but you can only see it there so don't delay.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Forever Young

2011-09-18T00:05:00.000-07:00

In the words of Alphaville "I want to be forever young."  I would love  to feel young cause lately I hate how stiff I am.  I get up and it takes several steps to work out all the kinks--what's with that?  Let's not even talk about being able to read without squinting.   

My card today features a great new stamp set from the Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog called Forever Young.  I must say I think this set is timeless.  I stamped the tree image on textured cardstock which, for me, enhanced the timeless appearance and created a classic linen or hand-stitched look.

To give the aged look on the card I lightly inked up the Framed Tulips embossing folder with Crumb Cake Classic Ink.  I was happy with the row of pearls and the 1/8" Ivory Taffeta ribbon to define the lower third of the card.

Enjoy & 

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Early Bird Gets the Worm

2011-09-17T09:09:00.000-07:00

That's right you all know the saying "early bird gets the worm."

But did you know the worm ends today?

Today is the very last day for the early bird savings for the

Holiday Edition of Create with Connie and Mary.

Click over to the site and see all the free preview projects and tutorials.

The Edition starts tomorrow and lasts SIX FULL weeks.

DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS FABULOUS OPPORTUNITY!

Happy craftin,

One Last Chance to Win!

2011-09-16T16:30:00.000-07:00

You still have time to win a FREE subscription to the Holiday Edition of Create with Connie and Mary.

But don't wait until it's too late. Hop over to the Create site and learn how you can get your one last opportunity to win--it's super easy and you'll love the FREE tutorial.

My Halloween card is made using a stamp set from the Holiday Mini catalog called Piece of Poison. The images in the set are SUPER cool. You can get way more ideas and inspiration from the Holiday Edition at Create with Connie and Mary using this set and EVERY other product in the Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog. I am telling ya to co check it out--you'll love it.

Have a fun and fabulous weekend,

Elizabeth

Fabric Friday

2011-09-16T00:05:00.000-07:00

Today's Fabric Friday features a trio of memo boards.  One of the trio showcases cork board and push pins, the second includes a pocket perfect for stashing a note pad, and the third highlights magnets on a magnet board.

Each board is based on a 12" x 12" stretched canvas.  Before covering the canvases with the Timeless Portrait Designer Fabric I wrapped batting around each canvas.  For the cork board I simply cut the cork into 5" squares, added the silver Jumbo Brads, and then hot glued the squares to the panel.

I hot glued the magnet sheet to the fabric panel and then added my very own hand made magnets.  I actually put Jumbo Brads in the clock flowers from the back side to make perfect magnets.

For the note pad board I included a pocket which I detailed with a few more of the Jumbo Brads.  My favorite thing about this board is the top stitching.  I don't usually care for top stitching, but the 1" top stitching looks cool.

Happy fabric craftin'
Elizabeth

Leftovers Make for a Quick Project

2011-09-14T09:49:00.000-07:00

This frame is small and the opening is 2" x 3" and just large enough for a small scrap of Beau Chateau fabric I had sitting on my stamp table.  I layered the fabric under the glass and then added the Side Note postage stamp, Boho Blossom punched flowers, and the "With Love" banner on top of the glass.

One of my very favorite stamp sets in the Holiday Mini Catalog is the Hand Penned Holidays.  That is the set I used here and on my last post.  It is such an awesome set.  Keep checking back because I have used it lots and have more to share.

To see more great holiday projects click over to Create with Connie and Mary.  Today, 9/14, you have another chance to win a FREE subscription to the Holiday Edition of Create with Connie and Mary.  Go check out a super cool Halloween handmade gift.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

A Mini Catalog CASE

2011-09-12T00:05:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love Halloween decor.  I don't know why, I just do.  So, when I saw this Stocking card on page 35 of the Holiday Mini Catalog I thought I would use the layout of the card as my inspiration for a Halloween card.

If you are looking for more holiday inspiration join us at Create with Connie and Mary for our Holiday Edition.  Jump over to the site to see today's preview project, get a free tutorial, and see how to win a subscription to Create with Connie and Mary.

My Preview Day is Here! (Blog Candy Alert)

2011-09-09T00:05:00.000-07:00

I have two posts today because today is my preview day for the Holiday Edition of Create with Connie and Mary, and it's Fabric Friday. My first project today is super cool. But first I have to ask, "Do you want a chance to win a FREE subscription to Create with Connie and Mary?" If you do, just leave a comment on my blog today and be entered to win--it's that easy.

I call my AWESOME project, and I might add quick and fun, a Mica Snowflake Gift in a Card. It's an ornament perfect for mailing as it is lightweight and they whip up in no time.

I have used a bunch of new accessories from the brand new Holiday Mini Catalog. But the two stars of my snowflake project ornament are the Shaker Frames and the Mica Flakes. For a full color step by step tutorial click over to Create with Connie and Mary to download the file. You will find even more great stuff there. All the preview projects are there, or will be there in the next few days. They are free and give you a perfect idea of what you get with the subscription series. Go and have some fun.

BLOG CANDY ALERT! Don't forget to leave a comment on my blog today to be entered to win a FREE subscription to the Holiday Edition of Create with Connie and Mary.

All supplies are from Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Warmest of Wishes

Ink: Versamark

Papers: Cherry Cobbler & Whisper White Cardstock, Silver Glimmer, & Frostwood Lodge DSP

Accessories: Snowflake Bigz Die, Top Note Bigz Die, Shaker Frames, Mica Flakes, Clear Envelopes, Snowburst Embossing Folder, Sanding Block, Silver Shimmer Paint, Cherry Cobbler Bakers Twine, Holly Berry Designer Buttons, In Color Glimmer Brads, Pewter Embossing Powder, Simply Scored, Stampin’ Dimensionals, Heat Tool, Padded Envelopes

Have a memorable time creating handmade gifts for the upcoming Holiday Season.

Fabric Friday

2011-09-09T00:04:00.000-07:00

Greetings and happy Fabric Friday.  When working with fabric one thing I like to do is to challenge myself exactly how I can fit die cut fabric pieces together and how to make something to use for everyday or for the holidays.  Today's Fabric Friday project meets all three of those ideas.  I used the Pennant Bigz XL Die (retired) to cut my Deck the Halls Designer Fabric from Stampin' Up! which is perfect for the holidays; however it's just neutral enough to work in my home any time of the year.

This runner is made up of 50 large pennant shapes arranged in two rows of 25.  I was able to cut six pennants from each fat quarter piece of fabric giving me 18 from each Designer Fabric package.  In all I used three full packs of Deck the Halls Designer Fabric.

First I stitched the pennants in a "point up" then "point down" manner with wrong sides together.  Once both rows were complete I pressed open all the seams and then stitched both rows, right sides, together.  Next, I pressed the long center seam open and then laid the runner out on muslin to create a pattern for a lining.  With right sides together I pinned and then stitched around the outer edges leaving an eight inch opening.  I trimmed the corners, turned the runner right side out through the 8" opening, and then pressed the edges.  Last step was to hand stitch the opening adn give it one last pressing.  The finished runner measures 91" long by 15 1/2" wide.  

Happy fabric craftin, Elizabeth

Do the Math

2011-09-05T09:41:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's back to school time and I just have to say I am glad it's not me! My son is a freshman in high school and the only math class he could get is Trigonometry. I can't remember any of that math so I guess he will not be getting any tutoring from me. Instead I will create stampin' tutorials.

So, here is the math problem for you.

Holiday Mini Catalog from Stampin' Up! + Create with Connie and Mary = Fabulous Tutorials

My card that I have posted here today was made using my very favorite new stamp set from the Holiday Mini called Piece of Poison. We featured this set in our booth at the Santa Clara Scrapbook Expo. I love it and if you want more holiday ideas join us at Create with Connie and Mary.

Be sure to check out the Create blog to get your free preview tutorials starting tomorrow, September 6th.

Happy craftin',

Elizabeth

Fabric Friday

2011-09-01T08:36:00.000-07:00

I am a few hours early for Fabric Friday, but what the heck here we go.  What do you get when you mix a canvas remnant from the fabric store, Spice Cake Designer Fabric from Stampin' Up!, and the Petal Cone Bigz L Die?  A very whimsical big flower pillow!

I cut six heart shapes using the Petal Cone Bigz L Die in my Big Shot. Yes, the Big Shot can cut fabrics with ease. It's important to remember that if the die does not have any scorelines you can cut up to eight layers of fabric at a time. If it does have scorelines, which this die does, you should only cut three layers at a time.

To assemble the flower I stitched each heart piece to the next using the "tab" piece that is part of the die cut.  I pleated and top stitched each heart shape in half to create some dimension and then used fusible fabric adhesive to adhere the scallops behind each heart.  Once those steps were complete I top stitched the outer edge of the six heart flower.  To attach the flower to the pillow front I did some more top stitching but only between each heart thus leaving little pockets.

When making pillows I like to go the quick and easy route which is to not include a zipper. Instead I add enough fabric in the pillow back pieces to overlap and then tuck (shove) the pillow form through. For this pillow I decided to also add a quick gusset pleat to each corner giving the pillow a more box shape.

The added tag is made from a woodsheet.  I stamped the large Hello Doily background stamp for some color.  The handmade stamp comes from another new set called Creatively Yours.  It's an eight piece set that is perfect for you if you love to create holiday gifts.  You can find it on page 162 in the Idea Book and Catalog. 

Thanks for stopping by to see another Fabric Friday.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Free Tutorial

2011-08-30T09:50:00.000-07:00

How about a FREE tutorial? Just click on the link below to download a full color step-by-step tutorial to make medallions. Now you may already know how to make accordion medallions, but these are not just small medallions perfect for cards and banners. Included are the measurements for medium, large, and extra large medallions sized from 6" to 24"!

1/2" Accordion Medallion Tutorial

Also, did you see? The Create with Connie and Mary blog has a festive new look and they are getting ready for a SEVENTH Edition, the Holiday Edition 2011! They've started an Early Bird Pricing…save $5 off the normal $34.95 US! At only $29.95, your subscription will get you 6 weeks of daily projects with FULL step-by-step tutorials, challenges, and a chance to win prizes. That is less than $1 a day, and is a HUGE bargain! Don't wait…sign up today!

Happy craftin,

The Countdown Has Begun

2011-08-28T08:59:00.000-07:00

HELLO stampin' enthusiasts the countdown to the Holiday Edition of Create With Connie and Mary has begun. The time is NOW to register and save as we have started the Early Bird Special for Create with Connie and Mary Holiday Edition.

From now until September 17th at 11:55 pm you can take advantage of the special pricing of $29.95 - that's $5 off the regular subscription price of $34.95!

You get SIX full weeks of exclusive FABULOUS ideas with complete tutorials featuring the Holiday Mini Catalog products. Six days a week for all six weeks members of the design team...

Connie Babbert
Mary Brown
Elizabeth Price
Debbie Henderson
Robin Messenheimer

From September 6th to September 17th (on special days), each design team member will be sharing with you a FREE Preview Week project complete with downloadable tutorial. This is to give you an idea of what Create with Connie and Mary is all about!

Visit often and Happy Craftin'

Fabric Friday

2011-08-26T03:05:00.000-07:00

For today's Fabric Friday post I am sharing a super sweet runner I made using one pack of Beau Chateau Designer Fabric from Stampin' Up! I was able to easily cut 45 large scallop circles from the three fat quarters int he pack. Each row has 15 circles making three rows.

To construct the runner I first stitched the long 15 piece rows.  When I stitched them together I matched up and sewed a seam to include five scallops.  Next I pressed open all the seams.

To assemble the three long rows to form the runner I matched up and sewed a seam to include six scallops.  I know that may sound confusing but you will then have two scallops in between each seam to form the little "peek a boo" openings.

My runner here was used to add some sweetness to one of our sections in our Santa Clara Scrapbook Expo Booth. 

Enjoy and happy craftin, Elizabeth

Sharing Something a Bit Different

2011-08-24T23:10:00.000-07:00

I spend much of my time working at Bloomster's where I help design and coordinate weddings and events. Today I am sharing a bunch of pictures of a wedding I did earlier this year. I helped the bride with the invitations as well as the design details for the ceremony and reception. I am sharing a few ceremony photos that we snapped off for our archives. I wish I were a better photographer with great equipment because some events look so spectacular.

For the invitations the bride chose a simple clean approach.  She also decided to save some money and assembled the invites and rsvp cards herself.

The wedding took place at the Los Gatos Opera House in Los Gatos California.  It was gorgeous.  To see lots more of our wedding and event work look up Bloomster's on Facebook.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

In Real Life

2011-08-22T23:20:00.000-07:00

I was just thinking if I had ever seen anybody famous up close and personal.  And you know what, I have a little list of people I have walked right past, stood next to, or in one case had short conversation.  Are you wondering who?  Well here they are: Seal, Brian Boitano, Ricky Schroeder, Senator McCain, Jimmy Osmond, Taylor Hicks, and  most recently Carrot Top.  

 Are you wondering where I am going with this?  I was looking through all my Stampin' Up! Convention photos and remembering getting to see so many samples in real life that are featured in the new Idea Book and Catalog.  What I noticed most is that you see lots more detail when you see the real thing and not just a photo.  There were lots of cards and projects that are shown in the Holiday Mini catalog too.  For our booth at the Santa Clara Scrapbook Expo we made it a point to CASE (copy and share everything) quite a few projects that were both in the catalog and in the Product Park.  Our aim was to share where to get great ideas.  Most of the samples in these photos which were taken of the Timeless Portrait section of our booth were made by Tami W.  She is amazing!

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Casing the Catalog

2011-08-21T21:25:00.000-07:00

Today I have a couple photos to share from the Santa Clara Scrapbook Expo booth we had last week.  By the way, I have lots of pictures because between myself, Tami W., and Julie B. we made tons of gorgeous hand stamped cards and things.  Jump to more awesome samples and a great explanation by clicking here.

These fun and happy embroidery hoops made by Tami W. was inspired by the Product Park Convention samples.  What is Product Park you ask?  It was a FABULOUS display at this summer's Stampin' Up! Convention.  The fabric is from the Timeless Portrait Designer pack from the Idea Book and Catalog.  

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

Fabric Friday

2011-08-19T00:05:00.000-07:00

Welcome to another Fabric Friday!  Thanks to those who left comments last week.  Just so you know my mind is going a thousand miles a minute with some new creative project ideas with fabric all because of the comments from blog friends.

For today I am sharing "Part Three" of the old jeans that were recycled into cute things.  Last week I shared the jeans apron which was "Part Two."  I have yet to show "Part One" but I promise you'll see that project too.  I am just feeling a little like George Lucas ;0)

This purse or pouch was SUPER easy to make.  I used the bottom of one of the legs and turned in wrong side out to sew up a point to give my bag some shape.  I turned it right side out to press and wala the hem was already done. 

For the focal on the bag I added Springtime Vintage Designer Fabric fluffy flowers.  I used six scallop circles cut from the smallest pieces of the Scallop Circles Bigz Die.  

How to make the fluffy flowers: 

1.  Get them soaking wet with water and then wring them out.

2.  Distress and scruff up the damp pieces on a terry cloth towel.

3.  Spray the distressed pieces with spray starch.

4.  Scrunch them up one last time and place on a cookie sheet.

5.  If it is sunny and warm outside put the tray in the sun to dry.  Or, you can place the tray in a 200 degree oven for 6-7 minutes.

To form the flowers:

1.  Fold four of the pieces in half and layer them on top of each other turning each layer 90 degress.

2.  Stitch or hot glue the layers in place.

3.  Fold two pieces in quarters and layer on top of the first four pieces in a "bow tie" form.  (In other words, think of a clock and the first one will be arranged at 12:00 and the other toward 6:00).  These two pieces should overlap by about 1/4".

4.  Stitch or hot glue these layers in place.

5.  Add a button to the center.

To finish the bag/purse/pouch add a long strip of wide ribbon.  For a special touch I included a few coordinating buttons to each ribbon attachment point.

Make one for yourself.  Think about the possibilities of using this for decor.  It could hang and be the perfect place for mail or a small potted plant.  

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

What a Week is Was! Part II

2011-08-16T13:24:00.000-07:00

I mentioned in my last post about our booth at the Santa Clara Scrapbook Expo.  Here is a picture of the very corner section of the booth.  There is lots more to see and I will be sharing many more close up photos for you to check out.

Happy craftin, Elizabeth

What a Week is Was!

2011-08-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

Last week my friends and I hosted a booth at the Santa Clara Scrapbook Expo. While the work that goes into all the paper crafting we do to fill the booth with all the amazing eye candy takes a chunk of time, it is so worth the finished product. Our booth was STUNNING! So, over the next few weeks I will share lots of cards, boxes, favors, treats, home decor items, and stamped yumminess from our booth.

This card was in our Timeless Portrait/First Edition area of the booth.  By the way, we had asked for a 10' x 10' booth but they upgraded us to a 10' x 20'!  Tami W. made this fabulous card which features the new Creative Elements stamp set.  You can find that set in the Idea Book and Catalog.

Enjoy and happy craftin, Elizabeth

Fabric Friday (Blog Candy Alert)

2011-08-12T00:05:00.000-07:00

Today's Fabric Friday is a "NO SEW" project which features the Beau Chateau Designer Fabric, a Simply Adorned Bracelet, Artistic Etchings, and You're A Gem from Stampin' Up!  I call it my Beau Chateau Rag Tag Bracelet.  To see this project up close and personal jam on over to the Santa Clara Scrapbook Expo to see it and lots more amazing hand crafted projects created with the fabulous new products from Stampin' Up!

This second picture is of the back of the bracelet while in progress.  I wanted to share with you that I used a strip of ripped fabric about 1/2" wide to anchor the windowpanes to the bracelet links.  The last picture is a close up of smaller ripped strips tied between the links and around the "anchor" strip.

Today  I am giving away blog candy.  If you want to make your own rag tag  bracelet just do two things:  1. Become a follower of my blog (if you are not already) and 2. Leave a comment on my blog letting me know what type of fabric project you would like to see featured on an upcoming Fabric Friday.  Do that either today, Friday 8/12, or  tomorrow and I'll send you the full color pdf tutorial and supply list for this fun handmade beauty. 

Happy craftin, Elizabeth