Elements of Style

I have been invited to be a guest blogger for someone who is going on vacation in September and I had to come up with 2 posts for her. I decided to share them with my readers now and then I can let you know when they are posted on her blog as well. It is a great way to expose each of our readers to another's :) I had so much fun coming up with the designs.

The first one uses one of my favorite stamp sets - Elements of Style. I love to use this with the vintage style but this time I tried something different. This is how it turned out:

I stamped the large flower image twice to add more flowers and then colored it with markers. I stamped the hummingbird, cut him out and attached him with a dimensional. And don't you just love that new Daffodil Delight ribbon?? It is soooo wonderful to work with!

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Elements of Style

Cardstock: Basic Black, Daffodil Delight, Whisper White

Ink: Jet Black Stazon

Accessories: Always Artichoke and Daffodil Delight Markers, Daffodil Delight 1 1/4-inch Grosgrain Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals

This card was so fun to do! I always loved to color when I was a child and I just have never been able to give that up :) We all need to feel like a kid sometimes - it helps to make adulthood a little easier. Now if my mom would just make me some cupcakes........LOL!!!

Thank you for coming by today and sharing with me. I always appreciate your visits and your comments. 'Til next time...........

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Day of Gratitude

I am so excited for the Holiday Mini sales period to begin for all of you!! I have had so much fun with the few things I was able to preorder and play with. I have been dabbling a bit in the Halloween stuff, but my favorite fall holiday has always been Thanksgiving. I love it when the leaves change color, the air becomes crisp and breezy, and the moon shines brilliant orange just above the horizon. Farmers call it a harvest moon. These are things I will truly miss this year. I am sure I will have some crisp, cool days - but there aren't many trees here in San Diego that change color :) Oh well, I can always drive up to the mountains.

Wow, I really got off the subject....my card! One of the coolest stamp sets in the new mini catalog is called "Day of Gratitude." And, it has awesome coordinating paper called "Autumn Spice." The paper is heavyweight cardstock and will perfect for some really cool projects. In the meantime, I pulled some things out and this is what I came up with:

I stamped the leaf image onto a sheet included in the Specialty Paper so they stand up well and are just attached using a couple of glue dots on each one. They have a mustard tone behind the color - sooooo gorgeous in person!!! The stamped image was colored with Cajun Craze and More Mustard markers and then stamped on the Very Vanilla piece. I love the way it turned out!!

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Day of Gratitude

Cardstock: Cajun Craze, Early Espresso, More Mustard, Very Vanilla, Autumn Spice Specialty Paper

Ink: Early Espresso, Cajun Craze

Accessories: Cajun Craze and More Mustard Markers, Big Shot with Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots

This year will mark the first time in 25 years that I will not be with my son on Thanksgiving - but, God willing, we will be together for Christmas. It will be the first time in more than 20 years that I will not have my family at my house for Thanksgiving dinner. Years ago, we set up a plan to make sure we got to together now and then. Each of chose a holiday to have a family dinner on. Mine was Thanksgiving. It will be odd not to do that this year - I always loved baking the pies and putting the turkey in the roaster about midnight and waking up to the smell of roasted turkey and stuffing........oh my, I am getting anxious for November - LOL!!! I will be with my west coast family members this year and I know someone will cook dinner :)

My family and friends in Michigan will have to settle for a handmade card from me this year. I will miss them all and will continue to count them with my blessings every day. Thanks for coming by today and letting me share some memories. 'Til next time........

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Spooky Halloween Bag

So, I know I said I don't normally do a lot for Halloween, but Stampin' Up just has so many cute stamps sets this year. And I love the Fancy Favor box die for the Big Shot (you just have to have this!!) It makes the cutest little box that can be closed or left open to use as a bag like this:






Aren't those shoes just a "pair to die for?" :) As soon as I saw those I knew I just had to have them!! I really wish the stamp set from the Occasions mini earlier this year that had the verse "Give a woman the right footwear and she can conquer the world" would have carried over to the new catalog. I would soooooo be using that verse with these shoes...LOL! And since I just can't part with it, I probably will in the future :)

I wanted to give the bag that extra Halloween touch. So, before I put it together, I ran it through my Big Shot using the Spider Web embossing folder from the new Holiday Mini that starts September 1st. I didn't think I would ever use that. But, I just keep finding more and more ways to apply that texture! I love it!! Here is a closer view so you can get the full affect:





It is so much fun to play with. I can get the cool look of a spider web without the creepy, crawly things that normally come with them.

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Wicked Cool

Cardstock: Basic Black, Rich Razzleberry, Wicked Fun Specialty Paper

Ink: Jet Black Stazon

Accessories: Big Shot with Fancy Favor die and Spider Web embossing folder, Rich Razzleberry Marker, Stampin' Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Rich Razzleberry 1 1/4-inch Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, Crop-a-Dile

I found that it is possible to cut this box using just 8 1/2 x 11-inch cardstock rather than using 12x12. I cut my Basic Black 5 1/4 x 11 and laid it right at the edge of the box on the die that doesn't have the little flap on it. It makes the flap on the other end the perfect width to add your sticky strip to for closing and holds together beautifully!! That way, you can save your 12x12 for scrapbooking fun!!! I used the large hole punch on the side of the Crop-a-dile on each side of the bag. I put the end of the ribbon through from the outside and just tide a knot close to end on the inside of the bag to keep it from coming through. Now all that is left to do is filling it with goodies :)

Thanks for allowing me to share my little Halloween bag with you today and I hope you are inspired to copy and share with your friends. 'Til next time......

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Build-a-Bear Scrapbook Page

One day last week, I designed a card using the new Bear Hugs stamp set for the hostess at my mom's workshop today. She is expecting a new grandson soon and wanted her workshop to focus on the Build-a-Bear products and scrapbooking. She really wants a "Grandma's brag book" :) After I designed the card, I thought it would be fun to incorporate it into the scrapbook page.

I started digging through my Designer Series Paper and was able to combine a couple of sets to come up with this:

Isn't is just tooo cute!!? I used the new Pawsitively Prints II for the background, trimmed down to 11 3/4 x 11 3/4 and layered on Crumb Cake 12 x 12. I cut the large and small scallop squares from Tempting Turquoise and Poppy Parade. The title and the small lined piece for journaling are from the Newsprint Designer Series Paper. I added Linen Thread laces to the bear's shoes and put the adhesive sheet on the back of the Crumb Cake cardstock before cutting him out with the Big Shot so he became a self-adhesive die cut. I love these sheets!!!! Endless possibilities :)

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Bear Hugs

Cardstock: Crumb Cake 12 x 12 and 8 1/2 x 11, Poppy Parade, Tempting Turquoise, Very Vanilla, Pawsitively Prints II DSP, Newsprint DSP

Ink: Basic Gray

Accessories: Big Shot with Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Bear and Beary Essentials, Scallop Square, and Scallop Squares Duo dies, Adhesive Sheets, Linen Thread, Small Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, Scallop Oval Punch, Pinking Hearts Border and Corner Punches, Poppy Parade 1/2-inch Stitched Poly Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals, Tombo All-Purpose Glue, Crumb Cake, Tempting Turquoise, Poppy Parade and Basic Black Markers

I had so much fun creating this page. I am totally in love with the Build-a-Bear line of products!! These little guys are so much to play with and make outfits for. Some of the pieces are a bit small, but the Tombo All-purpose Glue made it simple to put them together. As you can see, they are well worth the effort :) I am definitely putting a class together for these!! And the Newprint DSP offered just the right touch for journaling and the title!! That little square is perfect for adding the name, weight, date and all the usual baby announcement info to describe the picture that will be displayed on top of the large squares below. And I love the way the little bear seems to be saying "and now, introducing.....". Just toooo sweet!!!!

I hope you have enjoyed the page as much as I have. I am excited to put it all together at the workshop and present it to our hostess. Hopefully, it will inspire you to create a page of your own. Thanks for coming by today - I have enjoyed sharing with you. 'Til next time........

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

A Few Changes

Well, I have been busy all day getting ready for a workshop that my mom has this Saturday. I love seeing her become successful in her own business (as my downline :) ). Which brings me to my subject for this post.

I have changed the name of my online store and my e-mail address. So, since I have over 100 posts on here, I thought it would be way easier to just do a post with the new info.

My new online store address is: http://www.lauriesrubberroom.stampinup.net/

My new e-mail address is: laurie.gibson57@yahoo.com

To join my team on my website, use the password: you rock

Since I promoted with Stampin' Up last month, I am able to choose a name for my group. So, after several days of deep thought and tossing things around, I chose the name "Rockin', Rollin', ReINKers ". So, if you would like to rock, roll, and re-ink with us go to my website and join my team :)

'Til next time......

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Oval Embossing Template

I have had several readers inquire about my embossed Bells & Boughs card. The original idea came from Patty Bennett last year. To make my template, I cut a piece of chipboard 4 1/4 x 5 1/2 inches. Then I used my Coluzzle cutting tool to start the oval image in the center and finished cutting through with the Hobby Blade. To put it through the Big Shot, you MUST change the sandwich to the All-purpose cutting platform with both tabs on top then add the template, then center the embossing folder by matching up the cardstock inside over the template and then one of the cutting boards on top. If you try to used both cutting boards and no tabs, it will be too thick to go through. This is best way I found to get it to work easily. You will find that it is pretty easy to center the cardstock in the folder over the template because you can see through the folder. I cut my cardstock 3 1/2 x 5 so I had about 1/4-inch of the template showing through all around the cardstock.

That may sound more confusing than it really is :) If you can't figure it out, let me know and I will help you out. This is what my template looks like:

I know that Patty had purchased a wooden one at a local craft store but I could not find one that was thin so I improvised using Stampin' Up's Chipboard Long Boards. It works great!!!

Thanks so much for visiting and inquiring about my template. I hope you will try this - it truly adds a beautiful effect and frames your image. 'Til next time......

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Bells & Boughs Sneak Peek

There is just so much to love in the new Holiday Mini that begins on September 1st. One of my favorite sets is called Bells & Boughs. I love poinsettias and when use color them with the new Cherry Cobbler marker, the petals look like rich red velvet!! Simply gorgeous!!!!!

I figured this stamp set would go perfectly with the Petals-a-Plenty embossing folder and the template idea that Patty Bennett shared with all of us last year - and I was right! This is how it turned out:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Bells & Boughs, Come to Bethlehem

Cardstock: Cherry Cobbler, Always Artichoke, Shimmery White

Ink: Jet Black Stazon, Cherry Cobbler

Accessories: Always Artichoke, Cherry Cobbler, and So Saffron Markers, Big Shot with Petals-a-Plenty Embossing Folder, Stampin' Dimensionals, Stampin' Sponges, 3/16-inch Hole Punch, Gold Brads

After I ran the Shimmery White cardstock through the Big Shot using the Petals-a-Plenty embossing folder, I lightly sponged Cherry Cobbler ink over the raised flowers. After attaching that layer to the Always Artichoke layer, I attached it to the card base using dimensionals. I really wish you could see the sparkle in this card. I tried several times to get a good close-up but the angle of the lighting just isn't working for me today :( The Shimmery White cardstock just has such a beautiful sparkle to it. It adds so much to the images because the sparkle shows right through the ink and markers.

Well, my swap cards are finished and went out in the mail yesterday, so now I have more time to play :) Thanks for stopping by today and I hope to "see" you again tomorrow. 'Til next time.....

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

This Week's 411 Challenge

I am really starting to like these challenges. They really make you think about how you can put things together and what different ways there are to create the effect intended. We all interpret things differently so you end getting lots of fun ideas! This week really made me think because the logical solution was to use my Circle Scissor Plus. But, since that hasn't made the trek west yet (which means I didn't bring it in my suitcase), I had to improvise :) This is the basic layout for the card:

And this is my version:

I just love the black and white combo so I used Basic Black and Shimmery White. It is difficult to see the sparkle in the white :( This paper really is gorgeous!! I used the Finial Press embossing folder with my Big Shot to add some texture. I stamped the hearts with the hostess set Punch Potpourri and punched them out with the Full Heart Punch. I attached one to a scrap of Basic Black and just trimmed around it because I also forgot to bring along the Punch Window Dies for the Movers and Shapers......go figure! LOL!! I think sometimes I would forget my brain if it wasn't attached :) And Michigan is a little far to go to grab something - thank goodness for my BFF Debbie who is boxing some items up as we speak!!! Don't know what I would do without her - she is also my upline :)

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Punch Potpourri, Occasional Quotes, Tiny Tags

Cardstock: Basic Black, Shimmery White

Ink: Jet Black Stazon

Accessories: Big Shot with Finial Press Textured Impressions Folder, Full Heart punch, Small Oval Punch, Filigree Brads, Basic Black 5/8-inch Satin Ribbon, 2 3/8-inch Scallop Circle Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals, 3/16-inch Hole Punch

I can't wait for someone to get married so I can give this to them :) I don't know of anyone who is until next summer so I may have to tuck it away until then. But for now, I have just a few more swap cards to finish up so I can get them in the mail. I hope today's challenge card inspires you to create a card to share with someone special. Thanks for visiting and hope to see you again. 'Til next time.......

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Happy Halloween !

Those of you who know me, know that I don't usually do a lot in the way of Halloween cards. I love to celebrate fall. My only son is grown and moved away so he doesn't go trick-or-treating and I have no grandchildren yet (which is absolutely fine :) ) so I just have never really done much for that holiday. Now that I have great nieces and nephews, I make little goodie bags but that is pretty much it.

And then Stampin' Up debuted an adorable stamp set in the new catalog called Greeting Card Kids. I instantly fell in love with all four of the images. They remind me of the Campbell's Soup kids. This is actually the set I chose to do my card collection with in the new UStamp Fall Edition. I can't show those cards to you yet, but you can click here to join the event.

So, back to the card for today. I picked out my favorite fall/halloween accessories and this is how it turned out:

Isn't she sweet??!! I just love her. And the spider web background? You guessed it - it's a new embossing folder for the Big Shot! It is soooo cool!! On this card, I embossed the Basic Black cardstock and then dabbed a sponge dauber onto my Whisper White Craft Ink pad and then just dusted it over the black and it rubbed onto the raised portion. I want to give credit where credit is due and I believe it was Gretchen Barron who did this first. Such a neat way to really make that web POP!!

I stamped the little girl and the sentiment on Shimmery White Cardstock so they would have some sparkle. You can see it better in a close-up:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Greeting Card Kids, Grateful Greetings

Cardstock: Basic Black, Garden Green, Peach Parfait, Shimmery White

Ink: Jet Black Stazon, Whisper White Craft, Basic Black, Garden Green

Accessories: Pear Pizzazz, More Mustard, Daffodil Delight, Early Espresso Markers, Pumpkin Pie 1 1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, Stampin, Dimensionals, Big Shot with Spider Web Textured Impressions Folder

Now that I have used this a couple of times, I anticipate trying some cute Halloween projects this year. You just can't help but fall in love with these little kids :) They are just toooo doggone cute!! And there is one for Christmas, Valentine's Day, and even one for Back to School. You can purchase them here or contact me to order them for you. You will have so much fun with them. Please feel free to leave a comment and let me know what you think. I always like hearing from my visitors. Thanks so much for taking the time to visit so I can share with you. 'Til next time......

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Sketch Frenzy Friday

One of the blogs I visit everyday is that of Sharon Field. She is an amazing stamper!! I love all of her work and recently she was asked to be part of the design team for Sketch Frenzy Friday. Evey Friday she receives a sketch and has to follow that to design a card. Anyone can play along so this week I decided to give it a try. This is the sketch for this week's challenge:

Very simple!! I love these cards because it is something you can make up quickly when you are in a pinch. So, I took out some of the gorgeous new Candy Cane Christmas Designer Series Paper from the new Holiday Mini Catalog and this is my version of the sketch:





The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Bells and Boughs

Cardstock: Blushing Bride, Baja Breeze, Real Red, Candy Cane Christmas DSP

Ink: Real Red

Accessories: Real Red 1/8-inch Taffeta Ribbon, Wide Oval Punch, Decorative Label Punch, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals

I just love this new DSP from the Holiday Mini. You won't have to wait much longer - it goes live on September 1st. There are so many wonderful accessories in this one!!! :) And we all know how important it is to "accessorize"....LOL! It was fun to use this sketch as inspiration and I hope you will give it try along withe me. I plan to join them every Friday to bring you some new inspiration. Thanks for stopping by today. 'Til next time........

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Challenge 83 card

One of the yahoo groups I belong to offers a challenge every week for a card design. This week the challenge was to create a card using a stamp for something it would not normally be used for. Someone stamped on a candle which was awesome but the challenge also said you could use a Christmas stamp for a birthday card or something along that line. So, that is what I decided to do. I just got a wonderful new Christmas set and decided to use it on an anniversary card. This is how it turned out:





The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Come To Bethlehem, Occasional Quotes

Cardstock: Basic Gray, Pink Pirouette, Whisper White

Ink: Basic Gray

Accessories: Big Shot with Polka Dot Impressions Folder, Pretty In Pink 5/8-inch Satin Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals

I like this card for a couple of reasons. First it really represents two kinds of love perfectly - God's love which began the moment Jesus was born and will last an eternity, and the love that begins when you say your vows and grows over the years. It was fun to think outside the box to come up with this. I may have to do this more often :) It's so fun to be a little unconventional sometimes....you should give it a try! 'Til next time......

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Bear Hugs

I just love the whole Build-a-Bear line of stamps that Stampin' Up carries. And now we have a new one - Bear Hugs. It is the cutest little baby bear :) I have a workshop coming up and my hostess is expecting a new grandson. So, she would like me to focus on scrapbooking and cards for babies. So, I got out the stamp set and paired it with the new Pawsitively Prints II Designer Series Paper to come up with this:

Isn't he just the sweetest little guy???? And you can swap out the colors and patterns for a little girl :)

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Bear Hugs

Cardstock: Poppy Parade, Tempting Turquoise, Very Vanilla, Pawsitively Prints II DSP

Ink: Basic Gray

Accessories: Big Shot with Square Lattice Impressions Folder, Pinking Hearts Corner Punch, Very Vanilla 3/8-inch Taffeta Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals, Small Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, Scallop Oval Punch

This little bear is destined to be a "go to" for a toddler's birthday, scrapbooking baby pictures, new baby cards and announcements, and of course for baby showers. It is such a wonderful addition to the BAB line! So fun!! Be sure to give your favorite "baby bear" a hug today :) 'Til next time,

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Occasional Quotes

This past weekend my brother and his wife and a very good friend all partipated in walks or runs for charity. Due to health issues, I am not able to do this sort of thing but I do try to volunteer in the organizational aspect of such events. I believe that it is important for those of us who are able, to find some way to "give back." Stampin' Up is a company that also fosters that philosophy. They donate regularly to the Ronald McDonald Houses across the nation. They even sell a stamp set every year and a portion of the price goes to RMH locations. I do not have the one for this year yet, but in the meantime there is a set that offers the perfect sentiment to thank those who do these selfless acts such as they just did. It is called "Occasional Quotes" and can only be earned free with a qualifying order because it is a hostess set. This is the card I made using that sentiment:

This quote by Winston Churchill is perfect to add to a note in thanks and appreciation for someone who participates in any charity event or who performs a random act of kindness.

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Occasional Quotes, Punch Potpourri

Cardstock: Perfect Plum, Pink Pirouette,WhisperWhite

Ink: Perfect Plum

Accessories: Big Shot with Finial Press Impressions Folder, Decorative Label Punch, Boho Blossoms Punch, Pretty In Pink 3/8-inch Taffeta Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots

The flowers I used for this card are in the Punch Potpourri stamp set that is also a hostess set. It has 4 images that coordinate perfectly with 4 different punches. Contact me today if you want a chance to earn them :) I learned how to mat the new Decorative Label punched piece from a video by Angela McKay. It is so easy.......don't know why I didn't think of it :) You simply cut apart two pieces and layer them on to the back!! Be sure to check out her video for complete instructions. She is awesome for sharing it with all of us!

Well, I still have those swap cards to finish up so I need to get back to them. Take the time to do a random act of kindness for someone today. It may just be what both of you need :) 'Til next time.......

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Just Believe

I just love the new stamp set called "Just Believe". There are 5 gorgeous images and 4 sentiments. And I got it FREE (thanks Stampin' Up) !!!! I owe that also to the wonderful ladies who are my downline - it allowed me to promote and receive $100 in free product!! It was like Christmas :)

Anyway, I love the set and wanted to do something different. I have seen so many beautiful sponged cards and I know that many demonstrators look to Michelle Zindorf for cards to copy. She has done some amazing stuff using this technique. But, I wanted to try something on my own so I sat down and this is what I came up with:






I used a scrap piece of paper for my template and laid it down on the Whisper White cardstock and sponged along the edge. I did the same for the grassy hillside. Then I sponged the sky area lightly with Baja Breeze and stamped the plant with Jet Black Stazon. I also sponged Baja Breeze on the white piece stamped with the sentiment so it would blend in more.

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Just Believe

Cardstock: Daffodil Delight, Marina Mist, Whisper White

Ink: Baja Breeze, Certainly Celery, Daffodil Delight, Jet Black Stazon, Marina Mist, Pumpkin Pie, Riding Hood Red, Wild Wasabi

Accessories: Daffodil Delight 1/8-inch Taffeta Ribbon, Stampin' Sponges, Stampin' Dimensionals

I love rainbows! I have always been taught they are the physical evidence of God's never-ending love for us and I truly believe that. So, this set just seemed destined to be paired with one :) It is so nice to be able to share His love along with my love of stamping with all of you. So, I you many rainbows today and always. 'Til next time.........

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

More Sneak Peeks

Sorry about being MIA for a couple of days. I have been diligently designing my cards for the new UStamp event and working on my Holiday Mini swap cards. But that wonderful man in the brown truck delivered a small box to me yesterday so I just had to play :)

The new Holiday Mini Catalog that comes out on September 1, has THE most awesome products!! By far, this is one of the best mini catalogs I have seen in awhile. There is a gorgeous new embossing folder for the Big Shot (you really need to get yours now!) that I used on this very simple card:

Aren't those snowflakes wonderful??? Actually, these are the best kind of snowflakes because they are not covering the road :)

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Many Merry Messages

Cardstock: Marina Mist, Whisper White

Ink: Marina Mist

Accessories: Scallop Trim Border Punch, Marina Mist 1/8-inch Taffeta Ribbon, Big Shot, Northern Flurry Textured Impressions Folder

I am soooo hooked on these embossing folders. They are the easiest way to add texture to your cards. And they give new meaning to CAS - Cute And Simple!! I literally put this card together in a matter of minutes. Super duper easy and yet the embossing adds a very elegant touch! I can't wait to do some more exploring with this one :)

Well, back to the grindstone - I am working on a couple of deadlines and making pretty good time :) Those of you who have known me for a long time and saying to yourselves, "well, that's a first!" LOL!! Yes, I normally procrastinate so this is out of my realm :) But, for right now it is actually working for me! 'Til next time............

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Altered Wood Box

Before I even start this post I just have to tell how excited I am to finally have high-speed internet!!! It would have taken at least 1 1/2 hours to upload these three pics back home and I just did it in about a minute. I am LOVIN' it here !!!! :) Anyway, back to the post.......

The other day my mom and I were exploring the local craft store and I purchased the cutest little wood box!! I have bought and made these boxes before and since I have some of the awesome new products from the upcoming Holiday Mini catalog, I thought I would get another. (I actually have like 15 of them in a box back home and they will arrive with my dear husband in a few months :) )

So, here is the box after I did my alterations:







First, I traced the sides onto my Deck the Halls Designer Series Paper and then cut them out. I smeared the Anywhere Glue stick all over the sides and attached the paper. Then I traced and cut shorter pieces to go on the inside. I used a different pattern on both sides and then layered them with Always Artichoke cardstock that I ran through my Big Shot with the Square Lattice Embossing Folder:








I wrapped a piece of the Basic Black 5/8-inch Satin Ribbon around and attached the ends with Mini Glue Dots on the front side. Then I stamped the new Christmas Postcard (single stamp under $10) image onto Very Vanilla cardstock with Jet Black Stazon ink. After coloring it with my markers, I ran that through the Big Shot with the Square Lattice Embossing folder. Then I added an "antique" touch to it by sponging around the edges with Crumb Cake ink. I layered that onto Cherry Cobbler (also sponged) and attached the piece with dimensionals. I attached a bow on the corner with Mini Glue Dots and then I added some of our new pearls to the center of two of the poinsettias:







The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Christmas Postcard

Cardstock: Cherry Cobbler, Always Artichoke, Deck the Halls Designer Series Paper

Ink: Jet Black Stazon

Accessories: Always Artichoke, Sahara Sand and Cherry Cobbler Markers, Big Shot with Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Basic Pearls, Basic Black 5/8-inch Satin Ribbon, Mini Glue Dots, Stampin' Dimensionals

I just love the new Basic Pearls. They come with adhesive already on them so you just peel-and-stick. Soooo easy to apply!!!! And you get 150 of them for less than $5. Fantastic deal!!! I really wish you could see the actual rich tone of the Cherry Cobbler cardstock. Pictures just do not do it justice. It looks like deep red velvet! Absolutely gorgeous!!! I love how this turned out and it can be used for so many things. You can use it to hold your stamping tools, add a bag of candy inside, make notecards to fit - the possibilities are endless !! And it is an easy inexpensive gift for someone special. If you would like to receive this box as a gift, go to my online store and place a minimum $30 order to be entered in the drawing. It will be filled with a surprise and I will draw the winner on August 25th. 'Til next time.......

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Great News!!

I am so excited to have been chosen as a Guest Designer for the next UStamp With Dawn and Friends event! I have been an avid follower and to be asked to be part of one is a HUGE honor for me!! I will be making 4 greeting cards using one stamp set to add to the total collection of 160 cards!!

If you want to purchase this event please go to www.ustampwithdawnandfriends.com

You will not be disappointed!!!

'Til next time.....

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Mini Scrapbook Purse

During the past year I have become totally hooked on the UStamp events. OK, I admit it.....I am an addict! LOL!! But, you honestly DO get the coolest projects!!! I have quite the library of tutorials from some amazing designers!!!! I re-created one today and just had to share it with you. It was designed by Becky Roberts (the SU "Queen of Purses"). I love her stuff!!!! She graciously shared this project with us:

It is an adorable little purse that doubles as a scrapbook! Tooo cute! And so easy to make. You can easily adapt it to any DSP and stamp set. I can think of endless possibilities for this and plan to make a bunch more!!! This is what the inside looks like:

I can tell you that I used Basic Black and Very Vanilla Cardstock and the new Newsprint Designer Series Paper. My images were stamped from the Artistic Etchings stamp set. But, in keeping with copyright restrictions, I can't tell you how it is made. But, it really is simple :) If you would like to make one, visit the UStamp With Dawn and Friends ning group and join the Early Summer UStamp event. You will not be disappointed. There were some awesome projects this time and I can't wait for the next one - it starts in a couple of weeks. I highly recommend them. 'Til next time.......

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Holiday Mini Swap

Even though I am on the west coast now, I still have the distinct priviledge of being part of "The Rubberqueens" stamping group from Michigan. Our wonderful leader, Ronda Wade, keeps us motivated and very well trained. I made so many friends in this group and I love to take part in their swaps. We do one every time a new Mini Catalog comes out and there is an AWESOME one coming out next month. The Holiday Mini is always my favorite!! And this one is over the top!!!! One of the benefits of being a demonstrator is the ability to pre-order items from the new minis during the month prior to their release. It gives us a chance to play with some new toys so we are ready for your workshops and classes as soon as it goes live!

So, the stamp set I chose is an amazing new background stamp called Christmas Collage. I love the images! And just a hint, there are coordinating items that will blow your mind!!! I can't wait to show you but I have to wait a bit......sorry :) But, I will share the card I designed for our swap. Take a look....







Isn't it yummy??? Definitely destined to become of my faves!!! I used the new Victoria Crocheted Trim and some sewing thread to form a "wreath" on the card and added a bow made from the new Real Red 1/8-inch Taffeta Ribbon. Then I stamped just a portion of the background with Jet Black Stazon, colored it with a blender pen and marker, cut it out and attached it using dimensionals.

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Christmas Collage

Cardstock: Always Artichoke, Cherry Cobbler, Confetti Cream

Ink: Cherry Cobbler, Jet Black Stazon, Always Artichoke

Accessories: Blender Pens, Victoria Crocheted Lace Trim, Real Red 1/8-inch Taffeta Ribbon, Cherry Cobbler Marker, Stampin' Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots

I cannot wait to share more with you from the new mini. All I can say is that the holidays are going to be beautiful this year!! :) I will be putting some kits together for stamp-a-stacks, and some fun gift sets. Look for them in the next couple of months. And if you would like to host a workshop or a catalog party contact me today for info at laurie.gibson57@yahoo.com

Well, I have 25 of these to make so I should get back to work. 'Til next time............

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

CAS - Cute and Simple

I love simple, easy cards just as much as I love the ones I put a huge amount of time into. One of my favorite stamp sets for cute and simple cards is Herb Expressions. Not only does it have four wonderful flower images, it also has verses. I love the sets that combine both of those items because sometimes it is just too difficult to afford both. So, when I get both items for the price of one - I am a happy girl!!!

So, I got out my Many Marvelous Markers and I came up with this:

I started with a base of Crumb Cake (sounds soooo much more appealing than Kraft) and then layered it with Wild Wasabi and Perfect Plum. Then I colored the image of the Lavendar flowers with Wild Wasabi and Perfect Plum markers, huffed the image (the only time it is legal and safe :) ) and then stamped it on a piece of Confetti Cream. Sometimes I stamped it twice before reinking and huffing so it gave different variations of color. Then I stamped the Birthday Wishes from Occasional Quotes and added it using dimensionals. The Perfect Plum ribbon was created by holding a sponge dauber on top of Whisper White 3/8-inch Taffeta Ribbon while I dragged it across my Perfect Plum Classic Ink pad. It is so easy to have every color of ribbon if you do this.

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Herb Expressions, Occassional Quotes

Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Perfect Plum, Confetti Cream, Wild Wasabi

Ink: Perfect Plum

Accessories: Wild Wasabi and Perfect Plum Markers, Whisper White 3/8-inch Taffeta Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals

I know I said I am a "happy girl" when the stamp set includes both the image and the verse but unfortunately, it doesn't have just a quick specific quote - so I had to use two. The good thing about Occasional Quotes is that it is a Level 3 Hostess Set so you can earn it for FREE!!! And August is a great time to book a home workshop to earn that ($500 in sales) along with an additional $25 in FREE merchandise if your sales equals at least $350!! If you are in the San Diego area and would like to book a workshop, contact me at laurie.gibson57@yahoo.com and I will get you on my calendar. 'Til next time.....

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

JUGS-44 Challenge

Well, I haven't gotten a class going out here yet so I needed some new inspiration to keep me motivated. So, my mom introduced me to some websites that offer weekly challenges. I figured this would be a good way to keep me working :)

The first challenge is for the JUGS-44. I just love this - it stands for Just Us Girls :) The first time I saw it I couldn't help but laugh because it made me think of an old movie called "Mother, Jugs, and Speed." If my memory serves me correctly, Raquel Welch played the role of "Jugs". Oh well, I digress.....back to the challenge :)

This one required you to make a wedding card. And since most of my stuff is still in Michigan, I had to borrow a couple of things from my roomie (thanks, Mom) to come up with this:







I started with a Whisper White card base and added a layer of Basic Black. Then I stamped the sentiment on a piece of Whisper White and ran it through my Big Shot (you seriously need one of these) using the Polka Dot Embossing Folder and layered that over the black. After attaching them to the card base, I tied the yummy Whisper White Satin Ribbon around the whole card front. Doing it this way gives a piece of ribbon on the inside of the card to stick your check or cash or even a gift card under so it doesn't fall out when the card is opened (and no, I was not the smart person who came up with the idea.) Then I cut two hearts using the Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslit and my Big Shot. I added those on the card using dimensionals. Here is a closer view:






I absolutely LOVE that embosslit. It embosses and cuts the hearts in one swipe through the Big Shot. They are the neatest thing when added with dimensionals - it just makes them POP!!

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Occasional Quotes (Level 3 Hostess)

Cardstock: Basic Black, Whisper White

Ink: Jet Black Stazon

Accessories: Big Shot (order one here), Scalloped Heart of Hearts Embosslit, Whisper White 5/8-inch Satin Ribbon, Stampin' Dimensionals

Well, I have certainly enjoyed this first challenge and I have a few others to work on now. It should be fun to try these. There are alot of amazing stampers who come up with and take part in these challenges and it will be great to work with them. Hope you enjoyed the card and I look forward to sharing more with you. 'Til next time........

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammagram!

Another try with Artistic Etchings

The first time I saw this stamp set, I knew I had to have it. It may sound silly but it kind of makes me feel close to my grandmother who was born in France. She passed away when I was a senior in high school (eons ago) and I think of her quite often. So, this stamp set is one I will never get rid off :)

But, the first card I made with it wasn't one of my favorites. I had used the Spritz Spray (which I still have not quite mastered) and it just ended up too busy for my style. So, I decided to try again. I definitely like this one better:

I love the simple combination of Basic Black and Very Vanilla. It makes a card look soooo elegant. And I love the Vintage Wallpaper Impressions Folder. Here is a close-up view of the background it creates:

It really does remind me of the flocked wallpaper they used to sell. Maybe they even still do - I haven't looked in quite awhile. But my mom used to have some in her bathroom and I always thought it was so cool. And now I can get that same look just by using an embossing folder and my Big Shot (you still haven't bought yours???? I can help with that :) ).

I also used a small piece of the wonderful new Newsprint Designer Series Paper - I love the portion about the City of Paris. It pairs perfectly with this stamp set and is also a yummy addition when using the vintage style:

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Artistic Etchings

Cardstock: Basic Black, Very Vanilla

Ink: Jet Black Stazon

Accessories: Big Shot with Vintage Wallpaper Impressions Folder, Basic Black 5/8-inch Satin Ribbon, Large Oval and Scallop Oval Punches, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals

CAS (cute and simple) cards are always fun and this definitely qualifies as one. It looks as though I spent a lot of time making it but honestly, it took less than 5 minutes to put together once I had it planned out. And there are so many fun color combinations you could use with it. I think it would be fun to do a set.......oh wait, I will show you when I get them finished:)

I hope you enjoyed our little trip to Paris today and Merci for stopping by. 'Til next time.......

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Homemade and To Die For

As most of you know, I LOVE cupcakes :) I don't dare make them too often because once I get started, I just can't get enough!!! So, I am so happy to have cupcake stamps that allow me to enjoy them in other ways. Well, at least I can create art with them but it does not substitute for the real thing by any means!

Anyway, I am making myself hungry for cupcakes so I better get on to the post.....

As promised, here is the second make-and-take project we did at the workshop on Saturday. It uses the new "under $10" stamp called Homemade which fits the awesome new XL 2 3/8-inch Scallop Circle Punch perfectly:






We started with a base card of Pink Pirouette and then added layers of Early Espresso and Regal Rose. We used the Scallop Trim Border Punch on the Early Espresso and layered the punched image onto a scallop circle cut with the Big Shot and the Scallop Circle #2 die. I borrowed the sentiment from the Sweet Scoops stamp set in the Summer Mini.

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Homemade, Sweet Scoops

Cardstock: Pink Pirouette, Regal Rose, Early Espresso, Whisper White

Ink: Early Espresso

Accessories: Big Shot, Scallop Circle #2 die, Scallop Trim Border Punch, XL 2 3/8-inch Scallop Circle Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals

I love this stamp set. It is a single stamp and is great for cards and scrapbook pages. I can just see it stamped across the bottom of a page showcasing a birthday :) Tooo cute! Or if you have pictures of your kids licking the beaters when you bake - my brothers and I used to fight over them when we were kids - LOL!! So many possibilities for one little ol' stamp. Can't wait to play some more with this one :) So, fill your day with cupcakes and memories and have a good one. 'Til next time.........

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Helping Hudson

Everyday I visit a list of blogs and I belong to a couple of Yahoo groups. I go there to find ideas and inspiration. When I was reading my updates tonight, I came across a punch art card inspired by Kim Score (she is the QUEEN of punch art). When I went on her blog, however, I was inspired by something totally different than her talent.

She told a story about a little boy in Australia who is facing some pretty tough times. His name is Hudson. He is 2 1/2 years old, is legally blind, and was recently diagnosed with epilepsy. His mom is a stamper and a group of Stampin' Up Demonstrators have joined together to help Hudson and his family. He needs an expensive wheelchair that will enable him to be mobile enough to play with his siblings and these demonstrators have graciously donated some awesome tutorials that are being sold to help raise the $5000 needed for his Kid's Walker. These tutorial bundles include 10 step-by-step instructions for projects in six different catagories - Christmas, Projects for Men and Boys, Punch Art, Kid's Birthdays, Scrapbooking, and Bags, Boxes & Gifts. Each bundle costs only $10 Australian which is about $7.75 US.




His story touched my heart in a really big way. I plan to purchase all of the tutorials and not just because I want some really great projects and the bonus bundle for purchasing at least 4 of them, but because I know what it is like to have a sick child. I thank God every day that my son did not have to go through the trials this little boy is facing. Please visit his website by clicking here or on the button in the left column to read his story and consider joining the stamping community as we raise the money needed to improve this little boy's life.

I don't normally pass fundraisers on but I truly believe this is a very worthwhile cause. I hope you will consider supporting Hudson. I will be purchasing these tutorials and will post some samples as soon as I get them. They are available Aug.1 - 22. Thank you all so much. 'Til next time......

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!

Fun make-n-take

My mom (she's a member of my downline) had her first workshop yesterday so I helped her out by coming up with some quick make-and-takes. The first one we did uses one of my favorite sets - Upsy Daisy. This set is so fun!! You can make the coolest cards without even adding embellishments. That's what we did yesterday. We coupled it with the All A Flutter set from the Summer Mini Catalog to come up with this:

I love adding this butterfly with a dimensional because it makes it appear as if he's flying over the grass :) So simple and yet a pretty way to say "thanks for being my friend."

The complete list of supplies:

Stamp Set: Upsy Daisy, All a Flutter

Cardstock: Daffodil Delight, Basic Black, Garden Green, Whisper White

Ink: Garden Green, Daffodil Delight, Jet Black Stazon

Accessories: Daffodil Delight and Garden Green Markers, Stampin' Dimensionals

I love cards that look elegant and yet don't take a ton of supplies to make - that makes them easier to duplicate. And I stamped the butterfly on top of the grass, then stamped it again on a scrap. I colored the extra one and cut it out then added it with a dimensional. I got this idea from someone (I can't remember who - sorry) and thought it was so cool because you don't have to worry about cutting out the antennae on the butterfly. You can just use the ones on the image you layer it over. Soooo much easier!!!

Well, I am diligently searching for a job so I guess I better get back to my search. I will share the other make-and-take tomorrow. 'Til next time.......

Happy Stamping,

Laurie

Remember to get your mammogram!