My Stampin' Hide-away

Lost In the '50s!

2012-01-11T23:00:00.001-05:00

It's that time again!! Time for Digital Delights by Louby Loo's monthly release...and we're lost in the '50s!! Click on the link in my side bar to take you to these fabulous new images!! Here's my card for this week:

What fun images! Sure makes we want to "rock around the clock"! Also stop by the Digital Delights blog to check out more fun and fabulous creations by the rest of the Design Team!!

Stamps: Hearthrob Richie, Dazzling Sue, Fabulous Fifties DP, 50's Sentiments
Papers: Neenah 80# white, Basic Black,Barely Banana
Accessories: Copic Markers, 1" red grosgrain ribbon (repurposed from a Christmas present), yellow rhinestones

Loving Cherub

2012-01-04T23:00:00.001-05:00

The Digital Delights design team has been "on break" for the past two weeks celebrating the holidays, but now it's time to get back to work. This week, my image is Loving Cherub. Isn't he the sweetest little thing?

Here's a close-up of this cute little guy:

Head on over to the Digital Delights blog to check out what the rest of the design team has been up to!

Stamps: Loving Cherub
Papers: Bashful Blue, Real Red (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper unknown
Ink: Bashful Blue (Stampin' Up) for sponging edges of image
Accessories: Copic Markers, Stardust gel pen, white gel pen, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, pop dots, cream-colored cluny lace, sponge, red Stickles, red glitter stick-on adornments (Michael's)

My Last Card as a Party Planner- PTT # 48

2011-12-27T00:00:00.000-05:00

This will be my final posting for Party Time Tuesdays. My term as a design team member has come to an end. I have had a great time working with Jen and I thank her allowing me to be a part of PTT's fabulous team!

Now, here is my card:

Yes, Christmas is over, but I have ONE card ready and waiting for next year!! Woo Hoo!! I'm already ahead of the game! :) The image is from 2 Cute Rubber Stamps, who is a sponsor for this week. Papers are from My Mind's Eye and the ribbon is from 3 Girls Jam, who were both month-long sponsors for December.

Please stop by Party Time Tuesdays blog to check out the cards that the other DT members have created for your enjoyment and inspiration.

Stamps: Girl Tree by 2 Cute Rubber Stamps
Papers: Garden Green (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned papers by My Mind's Eye
Accessories: Copic Markers, Spica pens, Stardust Gel Pen, gold glitter stick-on adornments (Michael's), Cherry Lipstick ribbon from 3 Girls Jam

Steampunk!

2011-12-21T00:00:00.003-05:00

Bombshell's Ms. December, Torrey, challenged us to create a Steampunk Project this monthusing our Bombshell stamps and digi images. Well, the challenge terrified me! I really wasn't quite sure WHAT Steampunk was, so I Googled it and this is what I found:

From Wikipedia: Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction, fantasy, alternate history, and speculative fiction that came into prominence during the 1980s and early 1990s. Steampunk involves a setting where steam power is still widely used—usually Victorian era Britain or "Wild West"-era United States—that incorporates elements of either science fiction or fantasy. Works of steampunk often feature anachronistic technology or futuristic innovations as Victorians may have envisioned them, based on a Victorian perspective on fashion, culture, architectural style, art, etc. This technology includes such fictional machines as those found in the works of H. G. Wells and Jules Verne.

So, what I found out is that anything "steam-powered", gears, or clockworks would work for Steampunk. I checked around for Steampunk-themed crafting items and oh, my...there are tons available out there!! Tim Holtz is a great one!!! So, with my Bombshell images and crafting supplies in hand, I delved into the world that is Steampunk...and, much to my amazement, I enjoyed it!!! My Steampunk project is a wall-hanging, but I need to find a frame to fit it (guess I should have thought of that first!!) The page is actually a recycled page from a wedding photo album. The gold-striped "frame" was already on the page and I just slipped some Steampunk-themed DSP into it.

The page measures approximately 8" x 9". I'll have to keep looking for a frame that I like and that will fit properly.

I used my beloved Bombshell Angel image and the Bombshell Halloween Costumes digi-images. Yes, it's a Halloween costume but with the top hat and cape, I thought it looked steampunk-y enough to use.

These images are cut from the Steampunk Debutante designer paper from Graphic 45 and layered onto cardstock.

The words "Steampunk Debutante" are actually cut from the cover of the Steampunk Debutante designer paper from Graphic 45. I added a couple of brads.

I hope you've enjoyed my first Steampunk project. As much fun as I had making this, I'm sure it won't be my last! Please visit the Bombshell Stamps blog for more Steampunk inspiration! You will NOT be disappointed!!!

Stamps: Bombshell Angel, butterflies from Butterfly Queen, Halloween Costume Digi-images
Papers: Creamy Caramel, Chocolate Chip (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, Steampunk Debutante Collection DSP (Graphic 45)
Accessories: Copic Markers, Tim Holtz Idea-ology Timepieces and Game Spinners, 1/16" hold punch, antiqued copper brads (American Crafts), recycled page from old wedding photo album, glue dots, dimensionals

PTT #47- Oh, JOY!

2011-12-20T00:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Tuesday!!! It's time for this week's Party Time Tuesday challenge- to use RIBBON!

This week's image sponsor is Bugaboo Digital Stamps. This JOY stamp is so fun. This is our 3rd week using our month-long sponsor- My Mind's Eye patterned papers and 3 Girls Jam ribbons. Make sure to check 'em out!!

Now head on over to the Party Time Tuesdays Challenge Blog to check out what the rest of the design team has to offer!

Stamps: Make It Snappy- JOY Squares by Bugaboo
Papers: Old Olive, Real Red (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, My Mind's Eye patterned paper Accessories: Copic Markers, Cherry Lipstick ribbon (3 Girls Jam), Cuttlebug, Tim Holtz Alterations embossing folder, pop dots

Zentangle Christmas

2011-12-16T00:00:00.002-05:00

I recently took a class at The Queen's Ink on Zentangle and I've been wanting to try it on a Christmas card, so this was the week that I decided to do it! So, here is my card:

Here's a close-up of the cute image:

Stamps: Getting Ready for Christmas digi-image by The Paper Shelter
Papers: Cherry Cobbler, Basic Black (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Accessories: MicroPen 01, Copic Markers, Scorer, gold stick-on beads

Little Dumpling Ringing in the New Year!

2011-12-14T23:00:00.001-05:00

Wow...can you believe that there are only 16 days left and then it'll be 2012??? This year has flown by!! Here is Little Dumpling from Digital Delights by Louby Loo ringing in the New Year:

Shhh, we won't tell anyone that I accidentally put the 1 on backwards...oops! Once it was stuck there was no getting it off! Oh, well! :) Isn't Little Dumpling just adorable, though??

Head on over to the Digital Delights blog for more holiday inspiration!

Stamp: Little Dumpling New Year Boy by Digital Delights by Louby Loo
Papers: Cherry Cobbler, River Rock (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper by Bo Bunny
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Cuttlebug alpha-numeric dies, Nestabilities, glue pen, glue dots, Idea-ology Time Pieces and game spinners (Tim Holtz), stick-on rhinestones (Studio 18)

Santa's Suit- PTT #46

2011-12-13T00:00:00.000-05:00

It's time for your Party Time Tuesdays inspiration. This week's challenge is to make a green and red Christmas card using The Paper Shelter image that we received. My image is an adorable one- Santa's Suit hanging on the clothesline!! I guess Santa is airing it out after being in storage for almost a year!

The Antique White ribbon is from 2 Girls Jam and the papers are from My Mind's Eye. and they are fabulously fun to use! Such cute designs! I really love this Merry Christmas paper. There were also little punch-outs included with the paper...I decided to use a scrap of the paper and one of the punch-outs in the inside of my card:

Please visit our sponsor's websites- The Paper Shelter, My Mind's Eye, and 3 Girls Jam to see these fabulous products as well as many others. Also stop by the Party Time Tuesdays' blog to check out more Tuesday inspiration from the rest of the design team...and we hope that you'll play along!!!

Stamps: Getting Ready for Christmas digi-image by The Paper Shelter
Papers: Cherry Cobbler and Wild Wasabi cardstock (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper (My Mind's Eye)
Accessories: Copic Markers, Antique White ribbon (3 Girls Jam), gold stick-on beads, Sakura Clear Sparkle Jelly Pen

**This Antique White ribbon from 3 Girls Jam would be perfect for any shabby chic projects you might be working on!!!

Muscle Beach in Gingerbread-land

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

Bombshell Stamps just released a limited edition digital stamp set call Gingerbread Pin-Ups. Here is my first project using these images. I made a Christmas wall-hanging and it would be perfect for someone who collects gingerbread men! (I apologize for the poor pictures- it's really hard to get a good picture of something this size and not have flash-glare on the glass!)

Here is a close-up of that gorgeous Gingerbread Pin-Up:

Did you notice that someone has already taken a bite out of her leg?

Here's a close up of those muscle-bound beefcakes...or should I say "ginger"cakes showing off for the lovely lady:

This fun set is available in the Bombshell store only until the end of December and then they'll disappear, so hurry and pick up your set today!!!

You might want to also stop by the Bombshell Stamps' blog to check out what the rest of the design team has created using these deliciously adorable images!!

Limited Release!!!

2011-12-09T16:04:00.003-05:00

Bombshell Stamps has just released an adorable Gingerbread digi-set called Gingerbread Pin-Up. These Pin-up and Pump-up Gingerbreads are mmmmm good with zero calories for the holidays! But only for a limited time! So get them while they last and have a Sweet Holiday Season! Check 'em out!

Hop on over to the Bombshell Stamps blog to check out Kathi's sample using this simply adorable set! Come back here on Monday for some more Gingerbread inspiration!

Zentangle Star

2011-12-09T00:00:00.003-05:00

Last night, my friend, Gloria, and I took another Zentangle class at The Queen's Ink in Savage Mill and we had a blast! In this class "Queen" Patti taught us how to make 3-dimensional stars decorated with 'tangles'. Check out what we made:

We used a star template (enlarged on the Xerox) found on Susan Breen Silvy's blog cut from cold-press watercolor paper. Although the design didn't come out quite like I had planned, I'm still happy with how it turned out. Of course, you should see Gloria's star! WOW! It turned out beautifully!!

I can't wait to take a more classes so I can learn more patterns! This Zentangle stuff can be addictive, although at the end of making this star, I was little cross-eyed! :)

Christmas Kid Cocoa Pouches

2011-12-07T23:00:00.000-05:00

Hello, and welcome to my hide-away! It's time for your weekly Digital Delights inspiration! I hope you enjoy my little project as much as I did making it!

I recently went to a Christmas get-together with my stamping group. My friend, Paula, made these cute little hot cocoa "kits" for each of us. It was so cute, I decided to give it a try. (Check out Paula's here!!)

Here is my version of Paula's brown bag pouches using Digital Delights' Christmas Kids digi-images:

As you can see in this next photo, there are actually two "pockets" in this pouch- the back pocket holds the hot cocoa mix pouch and the front pocket holds the candy cane stirring stick and two Peppermint Patty candies.

These will make cute little gifts for co-workers or classmates. You could even tuck a gift card in the front pouch if you wanted!

Thanks for stopping by!! Please drop in on the Digital Delights by Louby Loo blog to see what the rest of the design team has been up to! Oh, and stop by the Digital Delights store! They're having their once a year Christmas Blow-out! Save up to 70% on most of their Christmas images, BUT it doesn't stop there! You can also get 20% off any single purchase of $10 or more!! Use code SNOWFLAKES at checkout!! Hurry! This special won't last long!

Stamps: Christmas Kids digi-image by Digital Delights by Louby Loo
Papers: Eskimo Kisses patterned paper pack by Basic Grey
Accessories: Copic Markes, brown lunch bag, redline tape, gold glitter stick-on adornements (Reflections by Michael's), white organdy ribbon, hot cocoa packet, candy cane, 2 Peppermint Patty candies

PTT #45- Fancy a Mug for Two?

2011-12-06T00:00:00.001-05:00

It's Tuesday and that means it's time for another Party Time Tuesdays Challenge! I've been "off" for a month, so I'm excited to get back into the swing of things! This week we have some fabulous sponsors- Paper Makeup Stamps, My Mind's Eye, and 3 Girls Jam provided us some wonderful images, papers and ribbons for the Design Team to use this week. Stitchy Bear and House of Gilli will be providing prizes for this week's challenge winners!!

Okay, now onto my card for this week. The image that I received to use is called
Pete the Penguin and he's from Paper Make-up Stamps. Isn't he adorable!!??

Here's the inside of the card:

This image would also work for hot cocoa holders. Think I'll give that a go next! :)

I'm really loving the designer papers that we received from My Mind's Eye and the ribbons from 3 Girls Jam are fun! You'll be seeing more of their papers and ribbons throughout December for our PTT challenges.

Now, head on over to the Party Time Tuesdays blog for more inspiration from the design team and to check out more info on our sponsors. While you're at it, why don't you come and play with us?! You never know- you might win a prize from one of those fabulous sponsors!!

Stamps: Pete the Penguin from Paper Makeup Stamps
Papers: Certainly Celery, Real Red (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned papers from My Mind's Eye
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cherry Lipstick red ribbon (3 Girls Jam), glue dots, tea bag, poem is computer-generated

Bombshell Holiday Challenge Contest

2011-12-03T19:29:00.004-05:00

Bombshell Stamps is getting into the holiday spirit and feeling generous, and we want to do something for our loyal fans! We're having a Holiday Challenge Contest!

This special challenge is a one-time only contest. Use any stamp to create a holiday card and share it with us in the Gamblers Anonymous section of The Casino in Bombshell's forum!

Each entry will earn one chance to win a $5.00 gift certificate to the Bombshell Store, which will be selected via a random draw. Use a Bombshell Stamp and you'll win two chances!If you win using a Bombshell stamp (rubber or digital), you can win a $20.00 gift certificate!

The deadline for this challenge is December 31st. The winner will be chosen by January 5th!

Moon Charlie

2011-11-30T23:00:00.002-05:00

**If you're here for the Bombshell Stamps' Hump Day Hop, please scroll down to the next post**

Happy December!!! It's the first Thursday of the month so that means it's time for another new release from Digital Delights!! There are so many adorable images being released today!! I'm here to introduce you to Moon Charlie. Isn't he cute??

This little guy has such a sweet face:

I didn't adorn him much. I thought the striped paper with the glitter was enough adornment. I love this little guy and I can see myself using him a lot! Make sure to stop by the Digital Delights Blog to see the fabulous creations the rest of the DT has to show you using this month's brand new images!

Stamps: Moon Charlie by Digital Delights
Papers: Real Red, Soft Sky, striped DSP (all Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Accessories: Copic Markers, red glitter stick-on adornments (Michael's), pop dots

Bombshell Hump Day Hop- a Color Challenge!!!

2011-11-30T00:00:00.005-05:00

Hello, and welcome!!! It's time for our monthly Hump Day Hop! You should have arrived here from Laura's Blog. If you did, you're on the right track! If you didn't, head on over to the Bombshell Stamps' Blog to start the hop from the very beginning!

This month, Alison, our Hump Day Hottie, challenged us with a beautiful color combination! Check it out:

Aren't these colors fabulous?! I had originally wanted to use all 5 colors on my card, but I couldn't "fit" them all on there, so I settled for 3 colors. Here's my card:

A close-up of those gorgeous koi:

A BIG thank you to my friend, Jane, who came to the rescue by giving me a couple of sheets of Soft Sky cardstock!! Of all the blues that I had, none of them were even close to matching the swatch. I think Soft Sky is perfect! Thanks, Jane! You saved the day!!

I thought the koi images worked perfectly for this color combo. I hope you like it. Now, head on over to Torrey's Blog to continue on your journey.

Thanks for stopping by, and I hope to see you again soon!!

Stamps: Lotus Garden by Bombshell Stamps
Papers: Marigold Morning, Appealing Apricot, Soft Sky, patterned paper (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Bubbles embossing folder, Square Lattice embossing folder (Stampin' Up), Nestabilities, gold stick-on rhinestones (Studio 18)

Black Friday Sale at Bombshell Stamps!!!

2011-11-25T12:24:00.005-05:00

It's Bombshell Stamps' Black Friday through Cyber Monday Sale!

Receive 25% off your entire purchase NOW through Monday, Nov. 28!

Just use coupon code "CYBR30" at check out! Hurry! Go check it out at Bombshell Stamps!

Rudolph "Spares"

2011-11-24T00:00:00.002-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!! Even though it's Thanksgiving Day, it's Thursday, and that means another Digital Delights inspiration piece!

Can you believe that Christmas is ONLY a month away?!?! Here is a really cute little stocking-stuffer or little gift that's fun and easy to make! We've all read the story about Rudolph and his shiny nose leading Santa's sleigh through the fog, but what happens if his nose burns out?? Hmm, have you ever though about that?? Well, here is the solution- "spares" for his red shiny nose!! (I apologize for the poor pictures- I just couldn't get rid of the glare from the flash!)

I used the reindeer from Digital Delights' Christmas Toppers 1. Isn't he cute? Here's a close-up:

On the back is this poem:

Rudolph with your nose so bright
In case your light should dim,
I've made these handy "Rudolph Spares"
tucked safe inside this tin.

Here is a different poem in case you like this one better:

Rudolph has a job to do
Every Christmas Eve,
it's true.
His nose will always
light the way
For Santa and his tiny sleigh,
But if his nose should
ever go out
Don't cry or whine
or yell or pout.
Take out this jar and use a bit.
From Rudolph's
Red Nose repair kit!

I hope that you've enjoyed my project for this week. Why not head on over to the Digital Delights by Louby Loo Blog to check out what the rest of the design team has created for your enjoyment and inspiration!

Stamps: Christmas Toppers 1 (Digital Delights by Louby Loo)
Papers: Real Red, Cool Carribean (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, Eskimo Kisses DSP (Basic Grey)
Accessories: 4x6" cello bag, metal tin, red M&Ms, Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Snowflake embossing folder, snowflake brads, stick-on red glitter adornment (Michael's), oval and scalloped oval punches (Stampin' Up), "Rudolph Spares" and poem computer-generated

I'm A Birthday Sundaes Guest Designer!

2011-11-20T00:00:00.005-05:00

I'm SO excited! I am a guest designer on the Birthday Sundae's Challenge Blog this week!!! This week's sponsor is:

The winner of this week's challenge will win 3 digi-images from Karen's Doodles! Stop by her store to check out her adorable images!!

Okay, on to this week's Birthday Sundae's Challenge...our challenge this week was to use old or neglected "stuff" from our stash!! Well, I have LOTS of old and neglected items just waiting to be used!! For my cards here, I've used some patterned paper from a very old paper pack- mostly scraps that I found in my scrap bin. I've also used ribbons that have been laying around collecting dust, some leftover glitter brads, a Sakura Sparkle Jelly Pen that was bought a while ago and still in the package, as well as a single lone flower that was floating around in my stamp room.

This images were so much fun to color. I hope you like the cards that I have to share with you!

A beautiful little birthday fairy:

Close up:

Check out this adorable little guy!

Cute AND bearing gifts! :) What more could you want?

And finally an adorable tiger dropping in with a birthday "Hi!" Adorable image, however this card didn't turn out quite like planned!! Oh, well... :)

Thanks for stopping by! Now head on over to the Birthday Sundae's Challenge Blog and join in the fun!!!

Card 1:
Stamps: Fairy Princess image by Karen's Doodles, Make A Wish sentiment by Stampin' Up
Papers: Green Galore, Summer Sun (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper unknown from scrap bin
Accessories: Copic Markers, Sakura Sparkle Jelly Pen, flower (Prima), 1-1/4" and 1-3/8" circle punches, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, 1/16" hole punch, glitter brads (Stampin' Up), pop dots

Card 2:
Stamps: Bigsby Gift image by Karen's Doogles
Papers: Brocade Blue, Summer Sun, striped patterned paper (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Accessories: Copic Markers, 1/4" Pumpkin Pie grosgrain ribbon (Stampin' Up), Cuttlebug, Labels Eleven Nestabilities, pop dots, red stick-on rhinestones

Card 3:
Stamps: Tiger Fun, sentiment is computer generated
Papers: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper unknown from scrap bin
Accessories: orange satin ribbon (Offray), Copic Markers

Digital Delights Design Team Call!

2011-11-18T21:47:00.003-05:00

Digital Delights by Louby Loo is having a Design Team Call!

Do you love digital stamps and love to create? Do you like to be on a fab team? Are you organized and able to meet deadlines? If so then come apply for Digital Delights by Louby Loo's fantastic team!

Our call is open for anyone from anywhere, all applicants will be considered! You MUST have a well-maintained blog and be willing to share your Digital Delights projects on a weekly basis. The DT term will run from January 12th 2012 through the July 26th 2012. This call will remain open from November 18th through November 30th 2011. All new members will be notified 1st week in December.

Before submitting your application for our team, please read through the DT requirements listed below. Please do not apply if you cannot meet our requirements.

1. Required projects are once a week, with one project a month being new releases. All creations will be posted on your own blog to coincide with Digital Delights posts every Thursday. Therefore all creations must be uploaded to our Gallery no later than the Tuesday evening.

2. Links will be given for our badges and must be placed on your sidebar for the duration of the DT term

3. You will be required to check and participate in our Private group and be able to check it frequently to keep up with our plans. This is where you will add your stamp requests.

4. Creations should be entered into challenges and galleries as much as possible as well as becoming members of our various groups.

5. You must also know and understand how to use digital images. No special software is required but you must be able to print digital images in order to showcase them. Further, you must have a working knowledge of blogging software and understand the basic principles of inserting links, adding photos, etc. A digital camera to photograph your work is required. No scanned images please. All photos must be submitted in JPEG format.

6. You will be required to do one Hostess Monday posting on the Digital Delights blog.

7. Your term will be for a period of 6 months (or as stated in the dates above)

DESIGNER BENEFITS

Your photo and a short bio including blog links will be placed on the Design Team page on our website for the duration of your design period.

You will receive a badge to display on your blog showing that you are a designer for Digital Delights.

All digital stamps/products received during your design period are yours to keep and use forever. Our angel policy/terms of use must be adhered to at all times. All artwork you’ve created for Digital Delights is yours to keep using as you wish.

As a DT member you will receive a 50% discount on Digital Delights products (excludes custom blog design, watermarks and dvd's), for as long as you are on the our design team.
Most of all this is a fun and friendly group, so you will have a great time!!!!!!!!!!

To apply:

All applications should be emailed to Wendy at loubyloocreations@sbcglobal.net along with a short bio and links to your blog. Please put "Digital Delights DT Call" in the subject line.

Joyful Song of Christmas

2011-11-16T23:00:00.000-05:00

Well, can you believe it's just a little over a month until Christmas!! Today, I want to introduce you to a pretty little girl named Caroling Penny. Penny is from Digital Delights by Louby Loo.

Here is the inside of the card. The sentiment is from Digital Delights' Caroling Sentiment set.

Make sure to head on over to the Digital Delights blog to be inspired by our fabulous design team!! While you're at it, make sure to stop by the Digital Delights store! They're having a Thanksgiving SALE! You can get 20% off all products (excluding DVDs, watermarks and custom blogs). But hurry!! The sale ends November 23rd!!

Stamps: Caroling Penny, Caroling Sentiment Set by Digital Delights by Louby Loo
Papers: Cranberry Crisp, Old Olive (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper by Basic Grey (Eskimo Kisses pack)
Ink: Old Olive (Stampin' Up)
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, felt poinsettias and leaves, glue dots, gold stick-on rhinestones, sponge

PTT Is Having a Design Team Call!!

2011-11-16T18:53:00.003-05:00

Have you ever wanted to be on a design team? Do you LOVE working with digital images? Do you LOVE to color? Well, THIS is your chance to be part of a fabulous design team!!! Here are the deets:

This term is for 4 months and will start on January 1, 2012 and end on April 30, 2012. The requirements are as follows:

~Have an active blog where you post 2-3 times a week.

~Have a gallery on SCS where you post your weekly projects

~Be able to complete 1 card a week and post it to your blog and your gallery.

~Commenting on our Challenge participants’ blogs is a must!

~Be able to promote the PTT blog where ever possible. Also place our badge on your personal blogs sidebar linking back to PTT.

~Take excellent photos of your work.

~Bea able to work with Digital stamps.

~Have excellent coloring skills

~If you belong to other DT’s no problem just make sure you can meet our deadlines of a card a week!

The Perks: Getting your name and designs out for the public to see! Your name will be featured on the PTT blog. Getting DT experience if you have never been on a Design Team. Support in a team environment...The Senior DT is a great help! They are all very friendly and helpful! You will also receive products that our generous sponsors give the team to feature in their designs!

To Apply: If this sounds like a team you would love to be part of, please email the following to pttdesignteamcall@hotmail.com. Please submit your application no later than Friday, December 2, 2011 by 8pm mountain time. Applicants will be notified by December 5, 2011. Team will be officially announced on January 3, 2012.

Full name
AddressPhone
Number
~A link to your personal blog~SCS gallery link
~Craft Resume
~Best email for contact
~3 photos of your favorite projects featuring your best coloring skills. Please make sure 1 of those projects includes a digital stamp that is colored.

Good luck!!

OBG Blog Hop

2011-11-16T07:11:00.001-05:00

If you've come here looking for the Design D.I.V.A.S. Oldie But Goodies blog hop, you're on the right track, however, I didn't get my card made in time...please hop on over to Cindy G.'s blog to continue with the fun!!

Zentangle!

2011-11-13T00:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday my friend, Gloria, and I spent the day at the Queen's Ink in Savage Mill learning all about how to create Zentangle tiles. What FUN!!!! Who knew there were so many different patterns! During our beginner class, we learned the basics of creating these fabulous pieces along with some really fun patterns! Here is my first-ever Zentangle tile using 4 different patterns:

We created a second tile using 4 more patterns and learned a little about shading. I need to work on my shading!

After a delicious lunch at Ram's Head, we took a second class where we learned 8 more patterns. I really like this tile:

I can see where this can be VERY addictive! The Queen's Ink offers 7 more classes for learning more patterns. I sure hope we can make it to another class soon!!! Now, I need to learn how to incorporate these designs into my cards!!

You can WIN!

2011-11-12T08:54:00.003-05:00

You can win a set of Digital Delights 12 Days of Christmas digi images!!!! Check 'em out:

Want a chance to win a set?? We are giving away TWO sets !! All you have to do is leave a comment on the Digital Delights Blog telling us which DAY you like the best and whether you would like to win colored or uncolored set (of course become a follower of our blog too if you are not already.)

You have until MIDNIGHT SUNDAY to comment and winner will be announced Monday.

The Happy Couple!

2011-11-09T23:00:00.001-05:00

It's time again for me to spotlight another adorable Digital Delights by Louby Loo image. This week I'm introducing you to Bride and Groom and the Wedding/Anniversary sentiments. The bride and groom are just too cute and they were lots of fun to color using my Copics!!! Here's my card:

Remember the images are available in black and white or a colored version!! Make sure to check out what else Digital Delights has to offer!!!

Stamps: Bride and Groom digi, Wedding and Anniversary sentiments by Digial Delights by Louby Loo
Papers: Basic Black, Real Red, flocked DSP (all Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Labels Eleven Nestabilities, mulberry paper roses, glue dots, pop dots, scalloped oval punch

On the 7th Day of Christmas

2011-11-07T00:00:00.001-05:00

Digital Delights is celebrating the 12 Days of Christmas...just a little early...and here is one reason that we're celebrating!

Digital Delights by Louby Loo is releasing the 12 Days of Christmas digi-images just in time for your Christmas card-making pleasure! Today is the 7th day of the celebration and here is the 7 Swans A-Swimming image. Each and every one of the 12 images is SO cute. Make sure to stop by the Digital Delights blog to check out the other images!!!

Stamps: 7 Swans A-Swimming by Digital Delights by Louby Loo
Papers: Cranberry Crisp. Creamy Caramel (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper (Penny Black)
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, felt poinsettias and leaves, glue dots, striped ribbon (Stampin' Up), gold stick-on rhinestone

November Release!

2011-11-02T23:00:00.001-04:00

Take a look at this cute little guy:

His name is Skiing Snowie McFee...and he's one of Digital Delights' brand new releases for November. Head on over to the Digital Delights storefront to see the other adorable images they have released! Make sure to also visit the Digital Delights by Louby Loo blog to see some fabulous creations by the DD Design Team using the brand new images!

Stamps: Skiing Snowie McFee
Papers: Bashful Blue, Old Olive (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, Eskimo Kisses DSP (Basic Grey)
Ink: Old Olive
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities Labels Eleven, pop dots, beaded ribbon trim (Walmart), 1/8" hole punch snowflake brads

Countdown Recipe Challenge- Bombshell Forum Re-launch Party

2011-11-02T00:00:00.000-04:00

The Bombshell Stamps Forum Re-launching Party is still going on!!! Kelli gave us a great and fun challenge- a Countdown Recipe challenge.

We were to use:

4 patterned papers
3 rectangles
2 circles
1 ribbon

Here's my submission for her challenge:

It was a lot of fun trying to get all of the components on my card...I used 4 different patterned paper, although one is a little hard to see (it's beind the ribbon and coin.) My 3 rectangles are the panel with the Japanese symbols (which means "Beautiful"), the striped DSP behind that image and then the DSP under the ribbon. The 2 circles are the coin and the circle behind the coin, and finally the one ribbon. Then, of course, there is my Bombshell image- the new Geisha digi-image.
If you'd like to play along with Kelli's Countdown Recipe challenge go to the Bombshell forum and this thread- Countdown Recipe Challenge but hurry, you only have a little over 24-hours to play along. The deadline is midnight tomorrow night!!

Stamps: Bombshell Stamps' Peek-a-Boo Geisha digi-image
Papers; Bordering Blue, Chocolate Chip (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned papers unknown
Accessories: Copic Markers, pop dots, Wild Wasabi stitched ribbon (Stampin' Up), Chinese coin (The Shoppes at Somerset by Stampington & Co.), Japanese symbols computer genereated, glue dots

It's A Party! Danse Macabre!

2011-10-31T06:36:00.001-04:00

Happy Halloween!!! Bombshell Stamps is having a party...a party to celebrate the re-launching of their updated forum. We will be partying for 3 days- starting today- and running through Wednesday. The Bombshells have challenges, games, and lots of prizes...so make sure to check it out HERE.

I am thrilled to be hosting one of the party challenges. My challenge is called "Howl at the Moon". Your challenge is to create a project using your Bombshell Stamps or digi-images but make sure that you have a MOON somewhere on it! It's easy to play along- all you'll need to do is create your project and post a picture of it on THIS thread on the forum and you could win one of MANY prizes! All prize-winners will be randomly selected. Hurry! You only have until Thursday morning at 12 midnight (PDT) - that's 3:00am eastern- to post your creations!!

To get you started, I've provided a little inspiration for you:

It's kind of my own little Danse Macrabre! (I FINALLY put to use the brayering skills that I learned from Michelle Zindorf this past summer!)

So, now you know your challenge and you've been (hopefully!) inspired, so go get to work! I can't wait to see what you create!!! Oh, and you will need to join the forum to participate but it's FREE! Once you've joined you'll be privvy to updates on sales and new releases, monthly challenges, and lots and lots of fabulous inspiration from the Bombshell beauties and Pin-Ups.

Stamps: skeleton from Retro Cowgirl (Bombshell Stamps), trees from Plant Hope (Stampin' Up)
Papers: Basic Black, Night of Navy, Crushed Curry, Neenah 80# white
Inks: Stazon Black, Night of Navy, Not Quite Navy, Bashful Blue, More Mustard
Accessories: sponge, brayer, 1/16" hole punch, Daffodil brads (American Elements), Cuttlebug, circle Nestabilities, glue pen, white gel pen, scissors

Let's Get This Party Started!!

2011-10-31T00:00:00.000-04:00

It's midnight on the east coast of the US and it's time to start partying!!!!

To get you started with the festivities for the Bombshell Stamps Forum Re-launch, we will be having a Scavenger Hunt. This is what you'll be looking for:

You will need to visit the Bombshell Stamps' Design Team and Pin-ups blogs and search for the
Senora Muerta logo seen above. Keep track of which blogs you find her and what the date of the post is where you found the logo. Once you've found as many as you can, email your findings to Glitterykatie at thecelticwitch@googlemail.com with the address of the blog and the date of the post where you found the logo. The person who finds the most will win a fabulous prize!

You'll find Senora Muerta here on my blog...and I'll give you a hint...she's hidden in a Bombshell Stamps' post! Good luck!!!

Don't forget- our Forum Re-launching Party will run for 3 days! Make sure to visit the Bombshell Stamps' forum to check out the challenges and games. I'll be posting a challenge here on my blog in a couple of hours, so I hope you'll stop back by and check it out!

Geishas!!!!

2011-10-28T00:00:00.001-04:00

Check out what's new at Bombshell Stamps!!! Geisha digi images!!! Look how beautiful this image is!!

The image- called Peek-a-Boo Geisha- comes with the Geisha behind the plain umbrella, a Koi design umbrella, a Cherry Blossom umbrella (seen on my card) and a Peek-a-Boo sentiment. I just LOVE her!!! For my card above, I printed the Geisha and Cherry Blossom umbrella and colored them using my Copic Markers. In my "stash", I found a pack of bamboo mat coasters, so I used that behind my Geisha to look like a bamboo screen. In my stash, I also found some Asian coins (however, I *think* they're Chinese, not Japanese- oh, well!)

Here's the inside- I found a very old, uninked (and unknown maker) rubber stamp that I thought would be perfect.

So, what do you think??? Don't you LOVE these new digi images?! Check 'em out at the Bombshell store HERE

Stamps: Peek-a-Boo Geisha digi images (Bombshell Stamps)
Papers: Chocolate Chip, Blushing Bride (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper unknown from my scrap bin
Accessories: Copic Markers, bamboo mat coaster (Dollar Tree), Chinese coins (The Shoppes at Somerset by Stampington & Co.), red line tape, glue dots, burgundy-colored stick on gem (Studio 18)

Talkin' Turkey

2011-10-26T23:00:00.003-04:00

***If you're here for the Bombshell Stamps' Hump Day Hop, click HERE***

Can you believe that Thanksgiving is less than a month away!? Well, this little guy named Tiny the Turkey has a message for you..."Eat Ham!"

As much as I'd like to help Tiny the Turkey out, I can't...I love turkey too much! Thanksgiving is my all-time favorite meal! Sorry, little guy!

Tiny the Turkey is from Digital Delights by Louby Loo and he's so cute! Check out the other fall and Thanksgiving themed digis that Digital Delights has to offer! Make sure to stop by the Digital Delights blog, too, and check out the inspiration from the design team!

Stamp: Tiny the Turkey
Papers: Chocolate Chip (Stampin' Up), Origins patterned paper (Basic Grey), Neenah 80# white
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities Labels Eleven, gold stick-on beads, pop dots

Hump Day Hop- A Very Skelly Halloween!

2011-10-26T00:00:00.005-04:00

It's time for another fabulous Bombshell Stamps Hump Day Hop. You should have arrived here from the beautiful Alison's blog. If you did, you're on the right track! If you didn't, go back to the Bombshell Stamps' Blog to start the hop at the beginning. There are just too many fabulous things for you to miss any!!

Here's what our Hump Day Hottie, Alison challenge us with this month:

Hello, Alison here. It's October! It's October! My very most favorite month of the year! Can you tell I'm excited??? So...what's this month's Bombhsell Hump Day Hop Theme? Let me start off by saying I was really happy to see that last month's hop had so many Halloween projects in it. This helped in my decision as to what the October hop would be. Without further adieu, this month's theme is...Halloween of course! But...it's with a twist. You must include skeletons or a skull or bones in/on it somewhere. You can use any of the numerous Bombshell Stamps skeletons, or you can create your own. Just make sure you get your Bombshell Stamps in there somewhere! You may also create a Day of the Dead project for this hop. Like last month, I encourage you to make a decoration as opposed to a card, but this is not mandatory.

Well, since I'm not good at making anything other than a card, I decided to stick with what I know best- and I made a card:

My card is 5 x 7" (I found a bunch of envelopes left over from a previous event that a 5 x 7" card will fit perfectly into!) I used Bombshell's Muertos Doll Digital Stamps, colored him slightly using my C1 Cool Gray Copic Marker, and then cut him out and popped him up on the card using dimensionals. I printed a second image and cut only his head out and popped his head up using dimensionals as well. The playing cards are cut from a 12 x 12" piece of Halloween patterned paper from Making Memories' Toil and Trouble pack. It's an odd little card but I'm liking it a lot! I hope you do, too!!

Now head on over to the super talented Glittery Katie's blog to check out her Skelly card. If you get lost along the way, go back to the Bombshell Stamps' Blog to pick up where you left off. Have fun and watch out for those skeletons!!!

Stamps: Muertos Doll Digital Images (Bombshell Stamps)
Papers: Basic Black (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, skeleton and card patterned papers from the Toil and Trouble Halloween Pack (Making Memories), dimensionals, Copic Markers, decorative scissors (ProvoCraft), sentiment is computer generated

PTT # 39- Anything Goes!

2011-10-25T00:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Tuesday! It's time for another Party Time Tuesdays challenge! This week is an "Anything Goes" week...and this is a great week for you to join in!!!

This week my image is from Kenny K. I was SO excited to get to play with a Kenny K image that I was nearly beside myself! I had seen these fabulous images through a fellow Bombshell DT beauty, Cheryl, who was on the Kenny K design team...and boy, she could really rock those Kenny K images!!

My image for this week is Jeannie and I'll bet she could make any guy's wish come true! Check out my card:

Isn't she gorgeous?? Here's a close-up:

What FUN!!! I will definitely be getting me some Kenny K images!!! Make sure you go and check them out yourself!

While you're at it. Check out our other sponsor for this week:

Don't forget to stop by the Party Time Tuesdays' blog to see what the rest of the Party Planners have to share this week!

Stamps: Jeannie (Kenny K), Make a Wish (Stampin' Up)
Papers: Bordering Blue, Old Olive (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper unknown
Ink: Old Olive (Stampin' Up) for sponging edges
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, pop dots, string pearls, stick-on pearls, medium oval and scalloped oval punches (Stampin' Up), Prima flower, gold Spica pen

Bombshell Forum Re-launching Party!

2011-10-24T00:00:00.002-04:00

What?? A Re-launching Party for Bombshell Stamps’ Forum

When?? October 31st through November 2nd

Where?? http://www.bombshellstamps.com/

There will be games, challenges, PRIZES, and lots of fun!!!

Come on over and join the party, and help celebrate the new, updated forum! Make sure to become a forum member while you’re there! It doesn’t cost anything to join, and by being a member you can get information about sales and new releases, and even win prizes by joining in on our monthly challenges.

Hope to “see” you there!!!!

Think PINK!

2011-10-21T00:00:00.000-04:00

This is October- Breast Cancer Awareness month, so Bombshell's Ms. October- aka Paula- challenged us to create a card using all pink.

I recently had my annual mammogram and while I was in the waiting room, this idea came to me. I'm tickled *pink* with how it turned out and I hope you like it!

Here is my submission for Ms. October's challenge:

I had recently used this color combination on another card and thought it was so pretty together. I think this turned out nicely. I love the colors and of course, I just LOVE this image from the Girl's Ruin set! Here's a close-up:

Isn't she just gorgeous in pink?!

Inside:

If you haven't had your annual mammogram, PLEASE call and make an appointment today!!!

Head on over to the Bombshell Stamps Blog to see what the other DT members created using PINK...If you'd like to check out Paula's challenge and play along, please post your PINK creation to the Bombshell Forum thread HERE. Now, go schedule your mammogram!!

Stamps: Girl's Ruin (Bombshell Stamps)
Papers: Pixie Pink, Melon Mambo, DSP (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Oval and Scalloped Oval Nestabilities, 1/2" pink grosgrain ribbon (Offray), pop dots, stick-on pearls

Wrapped Up In Halloween!

2011-10-19T23:00:00.004-04:00

***If you're here for the Design D.I.V.A.S. Oldies But Goodies Blog Hop, please scroll down!***

It's Thursday and that means it's time for another Digital Delights by Louby Loo project!!! I'm having so much fun making Halloween cards but now I have so many, I'm not sure who to send them all to!! :)

I saw this adorable mummy and had to have him! So, here's yet another Halloween card from me!

My friend, Angie, had done a similar technique at a recent shoebox swap using paper to "wrap" the card and I thought that would work perfectly with the image. It's simple, but I like how it turned out.

Make sure to stop by the Digital Delights blog to see more inspiration from our fabulous design team!!

Stamps: Sitting Mummy, sentiment is computer genereated
Papers: Basic Black, Neenah 80# white
Ink: Going Gray for sponging
Accessories: sponge, Copic Markers, fancy label punch

Design D.I.V.A.S. Oldies But Goodies Blog Hop!

2011-10-19T10:00:00.006-04:00

Hello!! Happy Wednesday and welcome to the Design D.I.V.A.S. "Oldies But Goodies" Blog Hop! We had a very small group today however you KNOW that their projects will be fabulous!!!! I am the first stop on your journey today!

Each month, we are to create a project using stamping items that are at least 6 months old and feeling neglected. Well, that really isn't hard for me! I have a whole stamp room of neglected items! While rummaging around, I found an image that I had stamped and colored a LONG time ago- probably over a year ago!! So, I decided to use that, along with some patterned paper that I "won" in a blog candy forever ago...and this is what I came up with:

The image is from Bombshell Stamps' Horsing Around western stamp set. Isn't she cute?? Here's a close-up of that cute face and that adorable pig!

I hope you've enjoyed my creation today. Your next stop is Sue's Sentiments. Sue NEVER disappoints!! I know you'll LOVE what she has to share! Just in case you lose your way, here is the short but complete blog hop list:

Mary's Stampin' Hide-away (You're already here!)
Sue's Sentiments
Barbara's Made for Keeps
Stamp With Cindy G

Enjoy and hope to see you again soon!!

Stamps: Horsing Around (Bombshell Stamps)
Papers: Soft Suede, Daffodil Delight (Stempin' Up!), Neenah 80# white, "Good Times" patterned paper by Close to My Heart
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, 1/4" Chocolate Chip grosgrain Ribbon, small star punch, 1/2" circle punch (all from Stampin' Up!), pop dots

PTT #38- Sketchy Tuesday

2011-10-18T06:43:00.001-04:00

It has been a frightfully scary month at Party Time Tuesdays this October! We are going to continue being spooky this week! For our challenge we would like you to show us your "spooky" and use our sketch. Here's the sketch for this challenge:

We have 2 wonderful sponsors this week:

Whimsie Doodles- One Winner will receive:$10 Gift Certificate to Whimsie Doodles Online Store

Karen's Doodles: One winner will receive 3 digital stamps from Karen's Doodles!

Thank you to both of our sponsors for allowing the Party Planners to use their digital stamps!

Okay, on to my inspiration card for this challenge...I used a very adorable image from Whimsie Doodles called Frankie's Girl and I flipped the sketch on it's side.

Make sure to stop by the Party Time Tuesdays challenge blog to see what other spooky creations the Party Planners have for your Halloween inspiration!

Stamps: Frankie's Girl by Whimsie Doodles, sentiment by Stamp Insanity
Papers: Basic Black, Olive Green (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper unknown Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, embossing folders (Cuttlebug), 1" black grosgrain ribbon, paper distresser, stick on glitter skull (Recollections by Michael's)

Way To Go, Brian!!!

2011-10-15T13:33:00.004-04:00

A BIG congratulations to my son, Brian, who ran in his first-ever Half-Marathon in Baltimore this morning. He finished the 13.1 miles in 2 hours, 10 minutes, 41 seconds and placed 3,937th out of about 11,000 runners. Way to go, Brian! I'm SO proud of you!!!

(Not bad at all for someone who just started running 10 months ago!)

Meet Coral Witch

2011-10-12T23:00:00.003-04:00

This is Coral Witch by Digital Delights by Louby Loo. Isn't she cute??

Stop by the Digital Delights blog to see more fabulous creations from the design team!!!

Stamps: Coral Witch by Digital Delights by Louby Loo
Papers: Basic Black, Neenah 80# white, patterned papers from the Toil and Trouble Halloween pack (Making Memories)
Accessories: Copic Markers, pop dots, Prima flower, stick-on glitter skull (Recollections by Michael's)

PTT # 37- Tags Galore!

2011-10-11T00:00:00.000-04:00

It's time for another fun and fabulous Party Time Tuesdays challenge! This week, the challenge is TAGS!! Our wonderful sponsors for this challenge are:

One (1) winner will receive a $20 gift credit to Circle B!

One (1) winner will receive 2 digi images from Stamp Insanity!

One (1) winner will received a $15 gift certificate to Mo's Digital Pencil!!

Here is my tag for this challenge:

Doesn't this adorable image remind you of Samantha from the TV show, Bewitched?? Guess I'm showing my age! ;)

Make sure to head on over to the Party Time Tuesdays Challenge Blog to check out what the other DT members have created for your inspiration...and while you're at it, I hope you'll play along and maybe YOU could win one of the great prizes listed above!! Just remember...in order to be eligible to win the prize, you MUST follow the rules! Here is the "short" version of the rules:
-Be or become a follower of the PTT blog
-Post our badge in your sidebar
-follow the challenge
-mention and link the PTT blog in your post.

Stamps: Morgan by Stamp Insanity
Papers: Basic Black, Green Galore (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, 1/2" hole punch, large grommets (Stampin' Up), assorted ribbons (Offray, Circle B Enterprises), Baker's Twine (Peapod by The Twinery)

Pink Ribbon Boo Bear

2011-10-10T00:00:00.004-04:00

Don't forget, October is breast cancer awareness month...here's a little something to help remind you...this is Pink Ribbon Boo Bear from Digital Delights by Louby Loo. Isn't she precious?

Remember, if you haven't already, get your annual mammogram!

I am also submitting this card to the Link Up For Pink linking party at JustYolie . Make sure to check it out!!!!

Stamp:Pink Ribbon Boo Bear (Digital Delights by Louby Loo)
Papers: Pretty in Pink, Daffodil Delight, Neenah 80# white, patterned paper by Basic Grey
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, stick-on pearls

Lockhart Images Made Into Cards

2011-10-09T00:00:00.000-04:00

I finally had some time to take those fabulous images that I colored at my class with Karen Lockhart and made a couple of them into cards.

Not really thrilled with this card, but will add a sentiment when I send it out. The cherries don't look as vibrant in this picture as they do in real life.

This card is made using the Lockhart papers that Karen provided us at the class. I do love this image...

What a fabulous pumpkin image!!! It was so much fun to color!!!

I didn't embellish the cards too much. I wanted the images to be the focus of the card.

Hope you like them!!

Cherry Card:
Stamp: Perfect Cherries (Karen Lockhart)
Papers: Summer Sun (Stampin' Up), dotted patterned paper (Basic Grey), Neenah 80# white
Accessories: PrismaColor Pencils

Basket Card:
Stamp: ?? (wasn't able to buy this one- they were sold out!) :(
Papers: Neenah 80# white, Card stock and patterned paper all by Lockhart Stamps
Accessories: PrismaColor Pencils, Stardust Clear Gelly Roll pen, Raffia (red, green, orange), glue dot

Pumpkin Card:
Stamp: Pumpkin # 5022
Papers: Card (Lockhart Stamps), Neenah 80# white, Pumpkin Pie (Stampin' Up), patterned paper (PaperTrey Ink's First Fruits Collection)
Accessories: PrismaColor Pencils, orange stick-on rhinestones

Beautiful Lotus

2011-10-07T16:28:00.005-04:00

I recently received 2 brand new Bombshell Stamp sets...one was Lotus Garden:

So pretty! I decided to give the lotus flower image a go and this is what I came up with...a little plain but I like the flower.

Stamps: Lotus Flower by Bombshell Stamps
Papers: Basic Black, Pretty in Pink (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper unknown
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilitiles

Digital Delights Monthly Release!!

2011-10-05T23:00:00.003-04:00

It's the first Thursday of the month and that means it's time for another fabulous release for Digital Delights!! Christmas is just a few months away and it's time to start working on those holiday cards!!! Check out one of their adorable new images here:

This is Swinging Edwina. She is sitting pretty on her candycane swing, ready to help Santa with his toy-making for all the good boys and girls. Here's a close-up of that sweet elfin face:

Head on over to the Digital Delights by Louby Loo blog to see some more fabulous new images that are available in the store today!!!

Stamps: Swinging Edwina by Digital Delights by Louby Loo
Papers: Real Red, striped DSP (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, Eskimo Kisses (Basic Grey)
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Scalloped Oval Nestabilities, 3/4" red and 1/4" green ribbon (Offray), red dew drops, Aleene's Jewel It glue, gold stick-on beads, pop dots

PTT #36- Getting "Shape"ly

2011-10-04T00:01:00.003-04:00

****Please scroll down to the next post for my Party Time Tuesday's Breast Cancer Awareness card and Link Up For Pink submission****

The month of October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Here at Party Time Tuesdays we want to reconize the 2.5 million women who survived breast cancer!! You all deserve a standing ovation!!

Please take the time to get a mamogram....

About 1 in 8 women in the United States (12%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime.

The most significant risk factors for breast cancer are gender (being a woman) and age (growing older).

These statistics came from www.breastcancer.org

Thank you to our 2 fabulous sponsors!

Here is a little bit about Crafty Sentiments designs. We are a small online based company selling both digital, clear and exclusive rubber stamps to cardmarkers and scrapbookers, started in October 2009 by me (Suzette), we offer a wide range of exclusive images as well as some lovely sentiments, with some essential crafting products including punches & soon to be released exclusive die-cuts!

Winner will receive 4 digis

Hi my name is Stitchy and I am Co-Owner of Stitchy Bear Stamps...we started this store April 1st, No Fooling haha..I live in upstate New York with my husband and two TEENAGE adults haha, I do say that loosely as they think they run the show here, NOT...

I been creating stamps for a little less than a year now and I am totally addicted to the craft..I started about 4 years ago making digital scraps and I knew there was much more out there, so a friend of mine introduced me to digital stamps...and the rest they say is history...I look forward to seeing all the beautiful creations come through...good luck everyone..stitchy xoxox"

Winner will receive:

We would like to see what kind of shaped cards are out there these days! So this weeks challenge will be show us your shaped cards AND/OR any Breast Cancer Awareness card regardless of the shape!

This week's Party Time Tuesdays challenge was a fun one! We were to make a shape card. This is something that I never do...my cards are always rectagle or square, so this was really a challenge for me. When I saw my adorable little image, Boo Bear, I got an idea!! I noticed that the bear in the image was holding a basket full of apples, so I decided to make my card in the shape of an apple.

I love how it turned out!! For my "first" shaped card, it's not too bad at all!! :)

Make sure to check out what the other Party Planners have to share. You will NOT be disappointed, I'm sure!!!

Stamps: Boo Bear from Stamp Insanity
Papers, Real Red, Green Galore (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Inks: Real Red, Green Galore (for sponging apple and leaves)
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities Labels Eleven, sponge, red and white gingham ribbon from Circle B Enterprises

PTT #36 (again!) and Link Up to PINK!

2011-10-03T23:59:00.004-04:00

Party Time Tuesdays has another challenge going on this week. This is October- Breast Cancer Awareness month, so we were challenged to create a card using all pink. This is also the perfect card for the "Link Up to Pink" linking party at Just Yolie. She is hosting a linking party through October 14th to raise breast cancer awareness by having crafters link their "pink" projects to her blog. They have over $3,000 worth of giveaways from 83 generous sponsors, that makes 152 prizes to give away!!! You can see the list of prizes HERE.

Link Up For Pink now has a Relay for Life page. They are one of the three virtual Relay for Life groups and the first ever blog event to be recognized by the American Cancer Society. If you would like to make a monetary donation, please click HERE.

Here's my card:

I am SO very pleased with this card. I love the colors and that adorable image is just too precious.

Stamps: Amy by Stamp Insanity, sentiment from Thoughts of You by Stampin' Up
Papers: Pixie Pink, Melon Mambo, DSP (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Oval, Scalloped Oval and Labels Eleven Nestabilities, 1/2" pink grosgrain ribbon (Offray) pop dots, small oval and scalloped oval punches (Stampin' Up)

A Day With Karen Lockhart!

2011-10-03T18:00:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I attended 2 different classes with stamp artist Karen Lockhart to learn the art of using PrismaColor Pencils. I've owned a very large box of Prismas for many, many years now, and was afraid to sharpen them for fear of "ruining" them. My dear friend, Gloria, gave me a smaller box of Prismas one year for my birthday (already sharpened!) and, try as I might, I could never get them to come out as beautiful as many I've seen- including Gloria's! Well, the opportunity came up to take Prisma coloring classes with Karen Lockhart sponsored by The Queen's Ink stamp store in Savage Mill, and I jumped at the opportunity! I learned SO much from Karen and was amazed that it REALLY isn't that hard! :)

The first class was just a Beginner/Refresher course. She gave us several images to color and walked us through each step. Here is my first-ever image colored using Prisma Pencils using the proper technique:

I was THRILLED with my first attempt!!! Karen taught us proper use of the pencils and shading techniques. Isn't that a fabulous pumpkin image? Of course, I HAD to get this one before I left!
Our second image was a wreath. I don't feel I did quite as well with this image, but I think with some more "tweaking" it might be salvagable!

Our last image in the beginner class was this wonderful basket:

Again, I was very happy with this one and of course, I had to have this stamp, too!!!

The second class that I took was using PrismaColor Pencils with a Stylus. Boy, what fun!!! The first image is my favorite of all that we did in the class, however the colors didn't scan quite as vibrant as they are in person!!

We used a stylus to add all of the little details- the words "flower", the dots, the tiles behind the flower, the lines on the flowerpot and the lines in the leaves- before we colored the image giving it lots of detail. I absolutely LOVE this one! Karen even made me promise to frame this one!

My next image was this image of 3 pears. I'm not quite as happy with this attempt, although, again, it could probably be tweaked a little more.

Next I colored this apple image. I didn't add any stylus details to this one, but was extremely happy with the way the shading came out!

I am SO happy that I signed up for these classes. Karen is an excellent teacher and I've learned so much. I've taken Copic classes, brayer classes, and now pencil classes, and I think I learned so much more from Karen's classes than I did from the others...and will use my new skills on a more regular basis. If you ever get the chance to take Karen's class I strongly suggest you do!!!

Thanks to Gloria for going with me and helping me along the way. Keep a look out here on my blog for the cards that I'll be making using these images

The Bombshell's Guide To Good Cooking

2011-10-02T22:36:00.002-04:00

The Bombshell Stamps Design Team recently had a challenge amongst ourselves to create an 8 x 8" recipe page using our beloved Bombshell Stamps.

Here is the page that I made:

Please visit the Bombshell Stamps forum HERE to vote on your favorite...and if you vote for me, thank you!

Bombshell Stamps Announces New Design Team!

2011-10-01T00:00:00.001-04:00

Happy October!! Today is the first day for Bombshell Stamps' new Design Team and I am so excited! The talent in this group is amazing!!!

I'm happy to announce this rounds' Bombshell Girls (AND Guy!):

Full-time DT:

Kathi Rerek
Katie Shanahan-Jones aka "Glittery Katie"
Alison Heikkila
Cheryl Valadez
Alaine Medio
Mary Harmon aka "Sparkly Mary"
Kelli Green
Meredith Winston
Stempelientje
Milo Lilja
Anam Stubbington
...and ME!

Guest Designers, aka Pin-ups:

Ms.October – Paula Riley
Ms. November – Celina Anthony
Ms. December – Torrey Moseley
Ms. January – Laura Boyd
Mr. February – Freddie Toledo
Ms. March – Alex Lundgren

Please stop by their blogs to say "Hello". You will be amazed at what they can do with paper, ink and rubber!! Don't forget to bookmark Bombshell Stamps' Blog here. Make sure to check out this month's challenges!! There are lots of opportunities to win prizes from Bombshell Stamps!

Wow! What a Gift!

2011-09-30T00:00:00.002-04:00

About 2 weeks ago, The Meade Girls had their Secret Sister reveal dinner. The person that was my secret sister was unable to attend due to illness in her family. Last Saturday, we came by the shoebox swap to drop off my gift...and boy, what a gift it is!!!

First of all, my Secret Sister was Amanda. She really had me guessing! I had no idea that it was her!! My Secret Sister, through Dawnmarie, had asked for 6 of my favorite pictures from our trip to Sturgis this summer, so I sent 6 pictures to DM, who in turn sent them to my SS (Amanda). Well, I couldn't figure out what she had planned, but never in my wildest dreams did I expect anything like THIS:

I know the picture isn't that great and it's SO much more beautiful in person!!!! She printed out the 6 pictures that I sent. She also printed out maps of the areas where the pictures were taken. Each location is visible near the picture (if you click on the picture, it'll show it larger). The rhinestones, those beautiful flowers, all that ribbon on the handle....I just LOVE it!!!!! I can't wait to get my stamp room moved downstairs so I can hang it on the wall for all to see!!!

Amanda, you rocked as a Secret Sister! I loved the cards and I love this wall hanging!! Thank you SO much for everything!!!!

"Delightful"-ly Adorable!

2011-09-28T23:00:00.005-04:00

****If you're here for the Bombshell Stamps Hump Day Hop, click HERE****

Take a look at this sweet little face:

This is Lara Pumpkin and she is simply ADORABLE!!! She is from Digital Delights by Louby Loo and I love her!!! She is so easy to color and has the sweetest eyes! Check out the Digital Delights store more this image and many, many others! AND their Halloween and fall images are on sale! To see their "specials", click here. You can also visit Digital Delights' blog to see what the other DT members have for your stamping inspiration!

Stamps: Lara Pumpkin
Paper: Basic Black (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper from the Toil and Trouble Halloween pack (Making Memories), 1" black grosgrain ribbon (Offray), 1/4" Pumpkin Pie grosgrain ribbon (Stampin' Up), pop dots, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, Basic Black marker for doodling, Copic Markers

It's the Hump Day Hop!!!

2011-09-28T00:00:00.006-04:00

What time is it? It's time for another FABULOUS Bombshell Hump Day Hop!!! You should have arrived here from Sparkly Mary's blog. If you didn't, head on over to the Bombshell Stamps Blog to start the hop at the very beginning. There is too much talent on their design team to miss anything!!

The next few months will be packed with assorted and various holidays. Our Hump Day Hottie, Alison, challenged up to create a card for our favorite holiday! I love Halloween but I love Christmas more, so I decided to use my Bombshells to create a Christmas card:

For this card, I used A Pirate's Life and colored her to be one of Santa's elves. She might be an elf, but she's still a "naughty" girl and all she wants for Christmas is Santa's naughty boy list... :)

Your last stop on our holiday hop is Alaine's blog. If you somehow get lost along the way just head on back over to the Bombshell Stamps' blog to find your way.

Stamps: A Pirate's Life
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black
Papers: Neenah 80# white, Soft Suede textured cardstock (Stampin' Up), Eskimo Kisses DSP pack (Basic Grey)
Accessories: Copic Markers, Modern Label and Photo Corner Punches (Stampin' Up), Cuttlebug, Nestabilities Labels Eleven, stick-on gold beads. pop dots

Anything Goes!!

2011-09-27T00:00:00.003-04:00

Welcome to Party Time Tuesdays' Anything Goes Challenge #35! This week's sponsors are The Paper Shelter, Gilli and Creative Clear Stamps.

My image this week is Birthday Cupcake and here is my card using this image:

Now head on over to the Party Time Tuesdays blog to see what the Party Planners have to share!! And while you're there why don't you play along? You could win a fabulous prizs- a $15 gift certificate from The Paper Shelter, a Gilli Goodie Bag or a Creative Clear Stamp set!! Thanks so much to our fabulous sponsors for letting the Party Planners showcase your products!

Make sure to come back tomorrow for the September Bombshell Stamps' Hump Day Hop!!

Stamp: Birthday Cupcake
Papers: Rich Razzleberry, Pixie Pink, Neenah 80# white, patterned paper by Provo Craft
Ink: YoYo Yellow (for sponging around candle flame)
Accessories: Prisma Pencils, 1/16" hole punch, 1/8" hole punch, raspberry brads (Basic Grey), C1 Copic Marker for shadowing

Rainy Day Dilly Note Paper Holder

2011-09-26T00:00:00.002-04:00

Happy Monday!! Today, I am the hostess over at the Digital Delights by Louby Loo blog. Each week, a design team member is spotlighted. Today, I shared this cute little note paper holder:

I used Rainy Day Dilly as my main image, coloring her using Copic Markers. Isn't she just adorable? I love that face!

On the inside, I inserted a 2012 calendar. Those little tear-off calendars are perfect for this!!

These little things are so quick to make- you can throw it together in about 10-minutes when you need a little gift!

Thanks for stopping by!!

Stamps: Rainy Day Dilly (Digital Delights by Louby Loo)
Papers: Summer Sun (Stampin' Up), blue plaid patterned paper (unknown)
Accessories: Note Paper Holder (ABC Distributing), Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, oval and scalloped oval Nestabilities, dew drops, Aleen's Jewel It glue

Hambo Design Team Call!

2011-09-24T00:00:00.003-04:00

Hambo Stamps is having a design team call. I love Hambo Stamps! They're SO cute and so fun to color! I was sent two digi-images to use in the application process. One is Wee Henrietta Witch here:

... and Banana Kid here:

If I don't make the team, that's okay, because I had a lot of fun creating these cards and using these adorable images. If you haven't seen Hambo Stamps, go check them out NOW! I know you'll fall in love with them like I have! Oh, and also check out the Hambo Hoedown Challenge Blog! You can get free digi-images if you play along...yes, FREE! Hurry, go now!

Today, I'll be spending a fun-filled day at a shoebox swap. Come back tomorrow to see the cards that I make!

Card 1:
Stamps: Wee Henrietta Witch digi-image by Hambo Stamps
Papers: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, Toil and Trouble
Ink: Going Gray (for sponging edge of image)
Halloween paper pack (Making Memories)
Accesories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities Label Eleven, orange dew drops, Aleen's Jewel It glue, pop dots, sponge

Card 2:
Stamps: Banana Kid digi-image by Hambo Stamps
Papers: Summer Sun, Melon Mambo (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, plaid DSP unknown
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, 1/2" yellow satin ribbon and 1/4" raspberry satin ribbon (Offray), gold stick-on beads (Recollections)

Finally!

2011-09-23T00:00:00.000-04:00

Okay, so it's Friday, I'm just a couple days late getting my PTT # 34 card posted. It's not because I didn't get my card done in time, it's because an ink pad decided to JUMP off the shelf above my desk and fall, face down, onto my completed card before I could get a picture taken of it. So, I had to go back and remake my card.

If you'll remember, this is the sketch that we were to use to make our card:

...AND the card was to also be monochromatic. Here's my card, and as you can see, it's based VERY loosely on the above sketch...

Hope you like it and hope you think it was worth waiting for! :) OK- now I want a chocolate cupcake!

Stamp: Lovely Cupcake by Heart Song Designs, sentiment is a freebie from Pink Cat Studios
Papers: Chocolate Chip, patterned paper (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Accessories: Copic Markers, Word Window and Modern Label punches (Stampin' Up), mulberry paper roses (Recollections)

A Very Special Hoedown Challenge #34

2011-09-22T15:02:00.003-04:00

This week's challenge is a very special challenge for us as we are teaming up with OPERATION WRITE HOME (their blog: Stars and Stamps) to celebrate their birthday and send the cards we make this week to the TROOPS that protect and serve our country!

I didn't get to play along last week with the Hoedown, so I didn't get the freebie image, but I wanted to play this week. I decided I would use Hambo's Camouflage Bear. Isn't he adorable?

Here is the card that I made for this week's challenge. I will be mailing this to Hambo Stamps to be forwarded to Operation Write Home. I sure hope that whoever receives this card will like it!

Stamps: Camouflage Bear digi-image with sentiments (Hambo Stamps)
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Pie (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper unknown
Ink: Going Grey for sponging edges of images (Stampin' Up)
Accesories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Circle and Scalloped Circle Nestabilities, key tag punch (Stampin' Up), silver eyelets (Doodlebug), Crop-o-dile, silver brad (Recollections), pop dots, sponge

Happy Fall, Mr. Straw!

2011-09-21T23:00:00.003-04:00

***If you are looking for the Oldies But Goodies Blog Hop, please click HERE or scroll down***

Well, tomorrow is the first day of fall...and it's starting to FEEL like fall around Maryland!! There's a nip in the air and the leaves are starting to turn into the beautiful fall colors that I love! Fall is my favorite time of year!

Today's card celebrates those beautiful colors and the coming of fall. This scarecrow image, called Mr. Straw, is the perfect "spokesperson" for the season! He just makes me smile. I hope you enjoy it!!!

By the way, Digital Delights has their fall and autumn images on sale! Check it out HERE.

Stamps: Mr. Straw, Happy Fall sentiment by Digital Delights by Louby Loo
Papers: Cranberry Crisp, Summer Sun (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, striped patterned paper unknown
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, pop dots, Prima flowers, antiqued copper brads (American Crafts)

Oldies But Goodies Blog Hop!

2011-09-21T10:00:00.001-04:00

It's time for another Design D.I.V.A.S. "Oldies But Goodies" Blog Hop! You should have arrived here from Dru's Garden of Dreams. If not, go on over to Carolyn's blog to start at the beginning!

Our challenge is to use stamps, embellishments or other stamping "stuff" that is at least 6 months old. My card uses things that are WELL over 6 months old!! I found a spool of checked ribbon in a Michael's bag with the receipt still in the bag...dated 2009! Then I found my Razzleberry ink pad which was still in the cellophane wrapper just like I got it from my SU demo! What's it been? 2 years since Razzleberry was an In-Color? So, there you go...those are my oldies but goodies items that I used on this card:

I wanted to make a clean and simple card. I love the way they look, but I think I still need practice on the whole concept!

Now head on over to Debbie's blog- the last stop of you Oldies But Goodies adventure!

Stamp set: Come to Bethlehem (Stampin' Up)
Paper: Whisper White
Ink: Rich Razzleberry
Accessories: checked ribbon (Dots, Dashes, and Checks from Michael's), stick-on clear rhinestones, pop dots

PTT #33- Getting Sketchy AND Monochromatic!

2011-09-20T00:00:00.000-04:00

**Note: My card will be posted later in the week...I had a fight with a ink pad and lost! :( Actually, I knocked over a stack of ink pads on a shelf...several fell to my desk, and one just HAD to come open and land smack dab in the middle of my finished card- face down! ARG! So, my replacement card isn't quite ready to post. Check back later this week...but here are the details about this weeks challenge:

It is Sketch week again here at PTT! We have another option for all of you who make cards then find challenges(that would be me!hahaha)! This week if you would like to use our sketch....great! But we would also like to see Monochromatic! So here are the options....Sketch Or Monochromatic....OR BOTH!!!

We have a 3 fantastic sponsors this week!

My name is Jenn Camargo and I'm a SAHM of 7 kids...6 girls ages 18-3 and a surprise baby boy age 4 months. I've been scrapbooking/card making for 18 years, and started digital designing three years ago. I LOVE my work...it's my creative outlet. I am thrilled to be sponsoring this challenge and loving all the fantastic works of art on the site!

We are a small family Craft business that came about when as a card making family, my daughters and young granddaughters and I that is! Not our men who do not make cards, although my husband has had a go....Could never find the stamps and crafts that we had seen advertised! So, in the end we decided to start up Crafts and Me, so that we could get the products we wanted not only for us, but to offer to other crafters like you. We love the different ranges of stamps and crafts that we get from all over the world and we hope you will love them too.... Our aim is to give you the best possible customer service that we can, and to treat our customers just as we would want to be treated ourselves.

Heart Song Designs offers hand drawn digital stamp images perfect for all your papercrafting needs. We offer a variety of images from elegant to super cute. Come visit us at www.heartsongdesignsshop.com and find digis that make your heart sing.

Paula's Reveal Gift

2011-09-19T00:00:00.007-04:00

**If you're here for the Bombshell Reveal Hop, please click HERE**

Last night, the Meade Girls met at The Olive Tree restaurant for our Secret Sister Reveal Dinner. I think everyone was surprised at who their secret sister was!

Now, here are pictures of the desk set that I made for Paula. I used Bombshell Stamps' Retro Cowgirl, which is one of my favorite sets. I sure hope she liked it! (I apologize now for the poor pictures- everything seemed to have a glare on it when I took the pictures!)

Here is the card. It's one that I had previously made for a Bombshell DT-only technique challenge so if you regularly follow my blog, you'll remember it.

I used the "cracked glass" technique on this card- a first for me, and I was happy with how it turned out. So happy, in fact, that I made her gifts to match the card.

I was looking through an ABC Distributing catalog one day and saw that they had these cute little note paper holders. When I received them in the mail and opened the box, there was one in a color that nearly matches Stampin' Up's Summer Sun color, so I decided to "decorate" it up a bit, using the same papers, colors and Retro Cowgirl image as the card...and here's how it turned out:

...and on the inside there was a place for a photo, so I put the Retro Cowgirl inside, too, and then stamped "Howdy" on the first sheet of note paper. I really like how this turned out!

Next, I found a small wooden clip board that I had bought at Michael's a while back. I removed the metal hardware from the clip board and stained the wood using a rub-on liquid stain. Once dry, I covered the front with matching DSP using quite a few coats of Modge Podge. I stamped the Retro Cowgirl image, colored her using my Copics and then cut her out and adhered her to the front of the clip board, coating her in several more coats of Modge Podge. Once dry, I reattached the hardware. It didn't come out quite as well as I had hoped...

In the bag with the clip board, I found a travel mug that I had bought and forgotten I had, so I decorated the mug again using the same papers, and image, but this time, I also used the other Retro Cowgirl, too. It was tricky getting the images lined up properly but all-in-all, I guess it turned out okay.

Lastly, I made an 8x8" recipe page for "Cowgirl Beans".

I hope that Paula liked having me as her Secret Sister as much as I enjoyed BEING her Secret Sister and I hope that she enjoys her desk set!

Stamps: Retro Cowgirl, Western Gal from Bombshell Stamps
Inks: Memento Tuxedo Black, Creamy Caramel (Stampin' Up)
Papers: Summer Sun, Cranberry Crisp (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, star design patterned paper unknown
Accessories: small clip board, travel mug (Michael's), Modge Podge, note pad holder (ABC Distributing), star brads (Stampin' Up), Cranberry Crisp stitched ribbon (Stampin' Up), Copic Markers, sponge, Cuttlebug, Oval and Scalloped Oval Nestabilities, large star punch (Stampin' Up)

Here are some pictures that Angie took at our dinner:

The Meade Girls minus a few:

Angie with the gift her secret sister, Tilly, made her- a beautiful altered tin filled with even more beautiful cards:

Please excuse the devil's horns- Jane was being bad...again! :)

Gloria with the gift her secret sister, Kathi, made her- a yummy Dunkin' Donuts gift set- complete with mug, and DD coffee in an incredible handmade box!!

Jane with the gift that her secret sister, Angie, made her- a paper "designer" Angie original purse filled with all sorts of goodies...including CHOCOLATE and an amazing quilted card to match!

Kathi, getting some help from friends, with the gift that her secret sister, Cindy, made her- a shadow box with interchangable seasonal inserts. Gorgeous!

Paula with the gift that her secret sister, ME, made for her using my beloved Bombshell stamps:

Pete with the handmade gift that her secret sister, Gloria, made her- a beautiful card organizer complete with a collection of cards, inserts, monthly reminders AND postage stamps and to top if off, she put it inside a gorgeous handmade box!

Cindy with her handmade gift from her secret sister, Jane...yeah, the Jane who said she can't make anything...you should SEE this! An ABSOLUTELY gorgeous box with Cindy's picture on the ornament:

We were missing 2 people who participated in this round...Jen, whose secret sister was Paula and Amanda, who was my secret sister. We missed you girls!!

It's spooky. It's fashionable...and it's a secret no more!!

2011-09-18T00:00:00.004-04:00

Check out what's BRAND NEW at Bombshell Stamps!! Halloween Digi Costumes for your Bombshell Angel stamp!! How fabulous are these???

First of all, you should have arrived here from Alison's blog. If you didn't, head on over to the Bombshell Stamps Blog to start the hop at the beginning. The Design Team has created some FABULOUSLY fashionable and ghoulishly glorious creations to show off these fun new images.

I was able to get 2 cards made using 2 of the 3 costume images. They're very simple cards, though...there just isn't enough hours in the day! :) (You can see a previous card I made using the 3rd image here .)

Sexy Vampiress
Bride of Frankenstein

Both are made using the same papers and similar layout, but aren't these images awesome?!

Now head on over to Katie's blog to continue your spooky fashion show...think of it as Fashion Week in Transylvania! :) If you get lost along the way, just head on back over to the Bombshell Stamps Blog to pick up where you left off. Enjoy!!

Stamps: Bombshell Angel, Halloween Costume digis
Papers: Green Galore, Pumpkin Pie, Concord Crush, old Halloween DSP (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Ink: Pumpkin Pie (for sponging)
Accessories: Copic Markers, wide orange grosgrain ribbon, 1" purple grosgrain ribbon (Offray), 1/4" Pumpkin Pie grosgrain ribbon (Stampin' Up), green webbed ribbon (May Arts), pop dots, gold Spica pen, stick-on orange rhinestones

Secret Sister Revealed!

2011-09-17T18:00:00.005-04:00

The Meade Girls had so much fun with their first round of secret sisters that we decided to do it all over again!! This time I was Paula's secret sister. I had a blast sending her cards and little gifts over the past 3 months. On Saturday, we met to have lunch and to reveal our identities, and now that Paula knows it was me, I can post the creations that I made for her.

This first card is made using a digi-image that I purchased from Victoria Case. Isn't this little guy adorable?
I printed the image onto GP110 white cardstock and colored him using my beloved Copic Markers. Real Red and Basic Black cardstocks are from Stampin' Up, the yellow embossed paper is from Michael's. I'm not sure where I got the Treasured Friend sentiment. The ribbon is from my stash- most likely from the Offray Ribbon Outlet.

The second card that I sent her was in celebration of the arrival of summer...I used a digi-image from 2 Cute Rubber Stamps. I included a cute little ice cream cone appliqued dish towel along with the card. (I "borrowed" the picture that Paula took because I forgot to take one with the dishtowel).
How cute is this penguin?

I used Stampin' Up's Chocolate Chip, Gable Green and Pixie Pink cardstocks, Neenah 80# white cardstock and Making Memories' "Cheeky" patterned paper. It just reminded me of ice cream! The large brown button is SU and the small white one was from my button stash. For the marshmallow cream I used liquid applique but I just let it dry naturally instead of using a heat gun so that it had a smooth appearance like marshmallow cream. Note to self- buy a "mint" colored Copic marker!

This next card is made using an image that I found online. It is actually a child's coloring page that I shrunk to fit onto a card. I had colored this image a while back when several challenge sites were having challenges in tribute to Japan after the earthquake. I'm not sure why I never used it. I think she's beautiful!

Close-up:

Apricot Appeal and Real Red cardstocks are from Stampin' Up. The patterned paper is some that I received in a blog candy that I won a while back so I'm not sure who makes it. I thought it had a somewhat Asian feel to it. The black stick-on beads are from BasicCraft. The strip of Apricot Appeal was run through my Cuttlebug using the Square Lattice embossing folder. I love that folder!!

Here's another card that I sent Paula. The image is called Tender Tootsies from the Plump 'Uns line from Phindy's Place.

This is a new color cardstock for me...it's Peach Parfait from Stampin' Up. I thought it went well with the glitter DSP.

This is the last card that I sent Paula through the mail in secret. The image I "won" in a challenge on the Cards for Men challenge blog. The image is from the sponsor The Stamping Boutique. The image is so cute and it was so much fun to color. I hope Paula liked it.

Close up:

I will post her "reveal gift" in a seperate blog post soon. Hope you'll come back to check it out!!

Sing Your "Art" Out Blog Hop!

2011-09-16T08:00:00.001-04:00

Welcome to "Sing Your Art Out" sponsored by Hambo Stamps! Today Hambo friends, customers, and the Bacon Bits Design Team are bringing you fun creations that depict song titles! It might be a favorite song, or just one that was fun to design. If you arrived here from Paula's blog you are in the right place! If not, you might want to start back at the beginning at the Hambo blog to make sure you are eligible for the hopper prize! You sure don't want to miss anything!!

A prize will be awarded to one participant whose song-themed creation tickles the Bacon Bits’ fancy in a singin' wingin' way! Another prize will be awarded randomly to a hopper who comments on all the blogs along the hop. The winners will be announced on the Hoedown blog, as well as on the Hambo company blog, Talk to the Ham, on Wednesday, September 21.

I had a really hard time deciding on a song for my card, but I finally decided on Surfin' Safari by the Beach Boys. It's a song that can take me back to the beach even in the middle of winter. I remembered I had an image that I had gotten in an image swap called Surfer Pig and thought he'd be perfect for my song-inspired card. Here he is:

Early in the morning well be startin' out
some honeys will be coming along.
We're loading up our Woody
with our boards inside
And headin' out singing our song.

Come on baby wait and see
Yes, I'm gonna take you surfin' with me.
Come along pretty baby wait and see
Yes, I'm gonna take you surfin' with me.

Lets go surfin' now
Everybody's learning how
Come on and safari with me
(come on and safari with me...)

Yep- now you've got that song stuck in your head!! :)

Now hop on over to Jenn's blog for another great sing-along song! If you get lost along the way, remember you can go back to the Hambo blog to pick up where you left off!

Stamps: Surfer Pig (#3221) by Hambo Stamps, Speckle stamp (Stampin' Up)
Papers: Brocade Blue, Summer Sun (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, assorted scrap DSP
Inks: Brocade Blue, Creamy Caramel (Stampin' Up)
Acessories: Copic Markers, sponge, Cuttlebug, embossing folders (D'Vine Swirls, Swiss Dot, Dots), gold stick-on beads, orange felt flower, button (Stampin' Up), pop dots

Let's Party!

2011-09-14T23:00:00.000-04:00

This cute little mouse is Pippin and, from the way he's in his cups and with those pink cheeks, he looks to me like he's about partied out! :) The image and sentiment are from Digital Delights.

Close up:

Check out the Digital Delights store for more adorable images...and don't forget to check out the Digital Delights blog, too!!!

Stamps: Party Pippin, Let's Party sentiment
Papers: Green Galore, Basic Black (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, DSP from Basic Grey
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black for sponging
Accessories: Copic Markers, Nestabilities, Cuttlebug, Bubbles embossing folder, stick-on pearls (Reflections), sponge

Ribbons and Fibers and Trims...oh, my!

2011-09-13T00:00:00.003-04:00

I can't believe it's already time for another Party Time Tuesdays challenge!! This week our challenge is Ribbons and Fibers and Trims, oh, my! It's pretty easy to figure out that our projects all had to use ribbon, fibers or trims...

This week's sponsors are: Circle B Enterprises, Tiffany Doodles and Jen's Digis.

My image for this week, Girl with Coffee, is from Jen's Digis.

Close up:

She was lots of fun to color using my Copic Markers.

Head on over to the Party Time Tuesdays blog to check out what the other design team members have to share!

Stamps: Girl with Coffee from Jen's Digis
Papers: Neenah 80# white, Real Red, Basic Black, Night to Day DSP (Stampin' Up)
Accessories: Copic Markers, 1/16" hole punch, red brads (Recollections), pop dots, red gingham ribbon (Circle B Enterprises), gold Spica pen for eye glasses

SO painful to remember but we must NEVER forget...

2011-09-11T11:31:00.001-04:00

Ah! The Crisp Air of Autumn!

2011-09-08T18:34:00.006-04:00

This week we were to use the rich hues of Autumn to inspire us in our designs. They didn't specify colors, because Autumn colors are different in different parts of the world -- we were to use whatever colors we think of when you hear the word "Autumn" or "Fall"! And for our image we will be using this cute set of FLOWERS:

It really isn't feeling much like fall here in Maryland, yet, with the hurricanes and tropical storms bringing tons of rain and the humidity that comes with it...but I do love fall and I'm SO looking forward to it! When I think of fall, I think of browns, reds, oranges, deep yellows, and even deep purple...and I love purple (Go Ravens!) For my card, I chose to use the colors Pumpkin Pie, Summer Sun and Concord Crush.

When I first saw the flower images, I thought of those dancing flowers that were all the rage several years ago, so I printed out the images twice, coloring one set, and then cutting the centers from the other set and popping them up on the center of the flowers using pop-dots. I applied some googlie eyes (sorry- the glue won the battle...and WHY do those things not show up until I take a picture???) Anyway, I think it turned out cute. I hope you like it!!

Oh, and mark your calender for Friday, September 16th for the Hambo blog hop! The theme of the hop is "Sing Your Art Out"...I had SO much fun during their last customer inclusive hop that I jumped at the opportunity to play along again!! I hope that you stop by and hop with us- I know there will be some great inspiration from the Bacon Bits and their customers AND there will be PRIZES to win!! So, remember- Friday, September 16th!!

Stamps: Flowers-digi by Hambo Stamps, Hello from Stampin' Up
Papers: Pumpkin Pie, Summer Sun, Concord Crush (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, glitter designer paper from the Pocket Full of Posies pack
Accessories: Copic Markers, pop dots, googlie eyes, Aleene's Jewel It glue

Moving Myrtle

2011-09-07T23:00:00.000-04:00

Hello, and welcome!! Today I want to introduce you to Myrtle, Moving House Myrtle to be exact. She is from Digital Delights by Louby Loo.

With this image, I attempted to use my Prisma Pencils and odorless mineral spirits again. I need more practice, though! :) (My greens matched much better before I took the photograph!). Oh, well...

Check out the Digital Delights blog today to see what the rest of the Design Team has to show you.

Stamps: Moving House Myrtle, New Home Sentiment
Papers: Pretty In Pink, Certainly Celery (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, Eskimo Kisses patterned paper (Basic Grey)
Accessories: Prisma Pencils, odorless mineral spirits, W-3 Copic Marker, dotted ribbon (Michael's), 1-3/8" circle and scalloped circle punches (Stampin' Up), pop dots, stick-on rhinestones (Bling It by Basic Grey)

PTT # 32- Grrr-andparents' Day!

2011-09-06T00:00:00.001-04:00

Party Time Tuesdays is celebrating a special occasion....Grand Parents Day. PTT#32- Show your Grandparents some LOVE!

This weeks sponsors are:

Kendra Snelling is owner of:

She has a store on Etsy HERE. She will have a cute prize for a lucky winner!

"Hi my name is Stitchy and I am Co-Owner of Stitchy Bear Stamps...we started this store April 1st, No Fooling haha..I live in upstate New York with my husband and two TEENAGE adults haha, I do say that loosely as they think they run the show here, NOT...

One lucky winner will receive a $15 Gift Certificate to Whimsy Stamps.

Stamps: Courageous Carl byt Chrissy for Whimsey, sentiment is computer-generated
Papers: Chocolate Chip, Certainly Celery, Summer Sun (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper unknown
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Square Lattice embossing folder (Stampin' Up), Bubbles embossing folder (Provo), pop dots

A New Dimension with the Hambo Hoedown!

2011-09-03T22:31:00.009-04:00

"You are about to enter another dimension, a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind. A journey into a wondrous land of imagination. Next stop: The Hambo Hoedown!" And what a cool way to use that imagination- at the Hambo Hoedown!

This week's Hoedown challenge was to use this adorable alien image:

...and to add dimension of some sort to your project. Well, I haven't played in the Hoedown for several weeks, so I didn't get the cute little alien guy to work with, but I remembered I had another Hambo digi-mage that is very similar- Birthday Thing seen here:

...so I decided to use him, along with the Moonscape digi-image that I had received in the Hoedown a while back. Here's my submission for the Hambo Hoedown challenge # 31:

To give my card dimension, I used my Cuttlebug and embossing folders to give the moon and the sky texture. I also applied stick-on pearls to the center of each star and popped "Thing" up using pop-up dots.

Stop by the Hambo Hoedown and check out what the fabulous Bacon Bits (AKA the Hambo Hoedown Design Team) has to share for your inspiration...and heck, why not go ahead and play along?! Use any Hambo stamp or digital image to create your dimensional project and add it to the blog post here using the Inlinkz button.

Stamps: Birthday Thing, Moonscape digi-images from Hambo Stamps
Cardstock: Green Galore, Basic Black, Neenah 80# white
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Stars embossing folder (Provo), Cracked Glass embossing folder (Tim Holtz), stick-on pearls (Reflections), pop dots.

Slippery When Wet!

2011-09-01T17:00:00.001-04:00

***If you're looking for the Digital Delights Halloween Release post click HERE***

Bombshell Stamps holds a design team-only challenge every other month or so to keep the team's creative juices flowing. This time, the team was challenged to create a project using the term "Slippery When Wet" as their inspiration. It could be sexy, it could be "fishy", or it could be nautical...it didn't matter as long as it relates to "wet" in some way.

I went the nautical route with this card:

I love the ship image from the Homeward Bound set so I decided that would be the "wet" for my Slippery When Wet challange.

Check out the Bombshell Stamps blog to see what the other's came up with!

Stamps: Homeward Bound (Bombshell Stamps)
Papers: Basic Black, Brocade Blue, Marigold Morning, Perfect Plum (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Ink: Night of Navy, Summer Sun, Perfect Plum, Lavender Lace (Stampin' Up), Memento Tuxedo Black
Accessories: Copic Markers, sponges, Cuttlebug, D'Vine Swirls embossing folder, pop dots, natural hemp

Digital Delights Halloween Release!

2011-09-01T00:00:00.001-04:00

Make sure to check out Digital Delights by Louby Loo's brand new Halloween images being released TODAY!

Here's a sneak peek at what's available! This is Boogie Pumpkin and he sure is cute!!

We were hit by Hurricane Irene and while we were in the midst of the storm, I decided I'd print out some images and color them. Well, of course, I ran out of ink and wasn't able to print the image and digi-papers until I was able to get out to purchase more ink...so, this is a very quick and simple card due to lack of time...hope you enjoy it anyway!

Head on over to the Digital Delights store here and check out the new releases! Also available are several more adorable Halloween images, 2 sets of Halloween sentiments, some very cute Halloween toppers, a set of Halloween accessories, and a pack of THE most gorgeous digi-papers!!

Stamps: Boogie Pumpkin, Halloween Sentiments #2
Papers: Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, Halloween Digi-Papers (Digital Delights by Louby Loo)
Ink: Creamy Caramel for sponging image
Accessories: Copic Markers, 1/4" Chocolate Chip grosgrain ribbon (Stampin' Up), Cuttlebug, Oval and Scalloped Oval Nestabilities, orange stick on gems (Bling IT by Basic Grey), sponge

Put Me in the Movies!!!!

2011-08-31T00:00:00.002-04:00

Our Hump Day Hottie, Alison, came up with a fantastic-ly fun challenge for this month's Hump Day Hop- Put Me in the Movies! She wanted us to take a movie, and/or movie poster, and use it to inspire our Bombshell Stamps projects! You should have arrived here from the uber-talented Kelli's blog- Cajun Stamping Queen. If you didn't head on over to the Bombshell Stamps blog here to start at the beginning. You sure don't want to miss anything!! Go ahead, I'll wait....

I had just gotten a "sneak peek" of some Halloween digi-outfits for Bombshell Angel. There was one in particular that jumped out at me. The first thing that I thought of when I saw this image was Bewitched. For those of you too young to remember, Bewitched was a TV show that ran from 1964-1972 starring Elizabeth Montgomery as Samantha Stephens, who just happened to be a witch married to Darrin, who worked for an advertising agency. For those of you younger, Bewitched was made into a movie in 2005 starring Nicole Kidman and Will Farrell. Samantha was a prim-and-proper wife who every now and again would show her 'witchy' side. The TV show, more than the movie, is a fond memory of my childhood...yes, I was extremely young but I have a great memory! ;)

Here is my creation using Bewitched as my inspiration. I hope you like it!

A close-up of this beautiful witches outfit:

The next stop on your journey is Alex's blog- Paper and String. Wait till you see what fabulousness is waiting for you there!

Just in case you get lost along the way, here is the entire blog hop, for your viewing pleasure:

Bombshell Blog
Alison
Laura
Alaine
Meredith
Kelli
Mary G. ---you are HERE!
Alex
Sparkly Engineer
Celina Anthony
Glittery Kate
Kapree
Cheryl
Dianne

Stamps: Bombshell Angel, Halloween digi-outifts and sentiments
Paper: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie (Stampin' Up), #80 Neenah white
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, Spider Web embossing folder, dotted grosgrain ribbon (Michael's), pop dots, glitter skulls (Reflections), gold Spica pen

PTT #31 Anything Goes!

2011-08-30T00:00:00.006-04:00

Well, we've had a very nerve-wracking week or so here in Maryland...first we had what I believe was a tornado blow through on Friday evening, then on Tuesday, we had a pretty major earthquake- a 5.8- that shook us up pretty badly, and then over the weekend we had to deal with hurricane Irene. All in all we faired well through all of this, thankfully. I'm sure hoping this week will be much quieter and less stessful!

OK- on to Party Time Tuesday's challenge for this week...it's an "Anything Goes" week
we have some really awesome sponsors! Check 'em out!

Chi Chi Memories

Chi Chi Memories is the labor of love of talented artist and illustrator Natalie Tong. Natalie's background in graphic design has helped her create the very happy world of Chi Chi Memories. Her line of digi images centers around kids Jordy and Candace and their world of animal friends such as Freddie the elephant and Teddy the bear, among others. Natalie's designs are meant to spread happiness and cheer around blogland. You can visit Chi Chi Memories here where you will find the shop (make sure to check out the FREEBIES!), the blog and challenges. There is also a Papercraft Planet group for you come share your work with Chi Chi Memories images and chat. Chi Chi Memories is thrilled to be able to sponsor Party Time Tuesdays!

WoodWare USA

Party Time Tuesday's very own NANCY! She is providing a stamp set from WoodWare USA. Woodware USA, LLC is a US-based retail subsidiary of Woodware Craft Collection of the UK. It is our goal to offer creative and fun craft products through our website and distributors. The name Woodware results from the fact that the initial product offering by Woodware Craft Collection was wooden toys. Then they expanded into wooden craft items and eventually wood mounted rubber stamps. Over the years they have expanded their product mix to include all kinds of crafting products from many suppliers and manufacturers.

Karen's Doodles
Here's a little background information on Karen:

I have been drawing all of my life. When I was 19, I started an animation studio with a friend from college. We created scoreboard animations for all the Major League Baseball teams as well as the Super Bowl and the Olympics In 1989 I started my own animation studio. We created animation for the Feature Film "Fern Gully The Last Rainforest". We also animated a Christmas Special "The Wish That changed Christmas" and a video featuring Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer. For the past 20 years I have had the pleasure of creating animations for Disney, Fisher Price and Mattel and bringing their characters to life. In 2006 I decided to bring my own characters to life with my first Children's Book, "Oink Finds an Egg". This year I am celebrating 50 years as a doodler and I look forward to sharing my original drawings with crafters through "Karen's Doodles".

She creates the cutest rubber stamps and digi-images. Make sure you check them out here. Winner of this challenge chooses 3 digis of your choice!

Thank you to our wonderful sponsors for letting the Party Planners work with your wonderful products!

My image for this week is called Fun in the Pool from Karen's Doodles and you can get her here. She looks like she's having so much fun in her little pool.

A close up of this adorable image:

Make sure to stop by the Party Times Tuesdays' challenge blog to see what exciting things the design team has to share and make sure you play along. You never know- you might win a fun prize!!

Stamps: Fun in the Pool digi-image by Karen's Doodles, freebie digi-sentiment by Pink Cat Studio
Cardstock: Bashful Blue, Barely Banana (Stampin' Up), glitter patterned paper, Neenah 80# white
Accessories: grosgrain ribbon (Apricot Appeal by Stampin' Up), light green Dew Drops, Aleene's Jewel It glue, Copic Markers

Little Dumpling...and a card gone wrong!

2011-08-24T23:00:00.001-04:00

Have you ever had a great idea that you just couldn't get onto paper??? Well, that was the case for me with this card.

My image this week is Little Dumpling from Digital Delights by Louby Loo. It's such a cute image and I was excited to use it for my card this week...well, I can tell you that NOTHING went right with the making of this card! The image is fun to color and turns out so cute. I printed out the Just Girls digi-paper to use on this card...digi-papers are SO fun! I found some cardstock that seemed to match the paper, and a ribbon- which looks to be almost an exact match to the cardstock...UNTIL I took a picture of it!! And those felt flowers and buttons- well, I just can't explain those!!

Oh, well, here's my card made using the super-cute Little Dumpling! I promise to make another card using this image again soon- hopefully with better results!!! In the meantime, enjoy this cute image and ignore the rest of the card! :)

Stamps: Little Dumpling, Baby Sentiments set
Papers: Pixie Pink (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, Just Girls' digi-papers (Digital Delights)
Accessories: dark pink gingham ribbon (Offray), Copic Markers, keytag punch, felt flowers (unknown), buttons (Stampin' Up), pop dots

Recess...My Favorite Subject!

2011-08-23T00:00:00.004-04:00

Today is the first day of school here, and what a perfect day for Party Time Tuesdays' challenge #30- Back to School! Our sponsor this week is Chi Chi Memories and take a look at this adorable image called Summer Fun Girl:

Who doesn't love recess?? This little girl is taking advantage of warm Indian summer days to get a few more swings in before cold weather gets here. I made this card for one of our teachers whose birthday is today. I hope she likes it!

Stamp: Summer Fun Girl digi-image by Chi Chi Memories, computer-generated sentiment
Papers: Basic Black, YoYo Yellow (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, scrap school-themed patterned paper (unknown). The apple square is cut from another scrap of school-themed paper. Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black
Accessories: red gingham ribbon (Michael's), Prisma pencils, red stick-on beads
(unknown)

The Party Planners what to challenge you to make your Kidos, Grandkids, Favorite Teacher or that Special Teacher in your life a card. We want to see those school themed stamps and embellishments put to work! Please click HERE and you will be taken straight to the PTT blog where you can enter your card via Mister Linky. Hope to see you there!

Our sponsors this week are:

Chi Chi Memories is the labor of love of talented artist and illustrator Natalie Tong. Natalie's background in graphic design has helped her create the very happy world of Chi Chi Memories. Her line of digi images centers around kids Jordy and Candace and their world of animal friends such as Freddie the elephant and Teddy the bear, among others. Natalie's designs are meant to spread happiness and cheer around blogland. You can visit Chi Chi Memories at http://chichimemories.com/ where you will find the shop (check out the FREEBIES, too!), the blog and challenges. There is also a Papercraft Planet group for you to share your work with Chi Chi Memories images and chat. Chi Chi Memories is thrilled to be able to sponsor Party Time Tuesdays! Winner will receive 3 digis of your choice.

Creations by AR

A note from the owner: I'm Adela and I live in sunny Southern California with my husband and our two teenage girls! Crafting has been a passion of mine since I was a little girl. I love to sew, crochet, knit, draw, paper craft, stamp... I love anything related to crafting! With encouragement from many people, my love of paper crafting in 3D has led me to open a website which allows me to share some of my template designs. I feel so blessed and I truly believe that God has given everyone their own special talents and it is our privilege to share it with others.
Winner will receive 2 templates of your choice.

Sweet As Honey!

2011-08-17T23:00:00.002-04:00

Take a look at this adorable little guy...his name is Larry...and I love him!!!

It's the eyes, I think...just SO cute and so sweet!!! You can get him, too, from Digital Delights by Louby Loo. This image is called Sitting Honey Pot Larry but also check out their other adorable images!! And, best of all, Digital Delights is having an end-of-summer blowout sale! You can get up to 75% off of selected images! But hurry, this sale won't last for long!

Stamps: Sitting Honey Pot Larry digi-image, Sending You Smiles sentiment
Papers: Pumpkin Pie, Daffodil Delight (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, glitter patterned paper (ABC Distributing)
Accessories: Copic Markers, stick-on rhinestones (Studio 18), 3/8" ribbon (Dots, Dashes & Checks from Michael's), pop dots

It's a Little Sketch-y!

2011-08-16T00:00:00.000-04:00

This week's Party Time Tuesdays challenge is sponsored by The Paper Shelter and the challenge is a sketch...this sketch:

I flipped the sketch on it's side and omited the sentiment.

The Paper Shelter image that I'm using is called Summer Games. It's such a sweet image. Makes me wish I were at the beach playing in the sand!

Head on over to the Party Times Tuesdays blog to play along with our challenge and to check out what the other design team members have to show!

Stamps: Summer Games by The Paper Shelter
Papers: Pumpkin Pie, striped DSP (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, glitter DSP unknown
Accessories: Cuttlebug, D'Vine Swirls embossing folder, Copic Markers, Prima flowers, large antiqued copper brads (Michael's), pop dots

A Call For Cards!

2011-08-15T00:00:00.001-04:00

I recently received this email from a fellow Bombshell Stamps' design team member:

As we all know, there are times in this beautiful crafty world where bigger parts of life come into play. More serious parts of life. Well, one such part of life has come my way. It's on the periphery of my life but more centralized to someone special in my darling brother's life.

My brother's dear friend and former roommate, Ryan, was involved in an accident on a Saturday afternoon in April 2011 in New Orleans, while riding his bike to meet up with friends. The facts of the accident remain unclear but Ryan did sustain a brain injury. As a side note - Ryan moved from CA to NOLA after Katrina to live there and help/work with the relief efforts to help the citizens of NOLA rebuild. Ya...he's an amazing young man.

So - what am I asking of you? I'm asking you to think of him, send blessings, prayers, white light, love and healing (however you manifest those thoughts and feelings) in the form of cards to send his way. Here is the post that his family put up:

Here is the link to the call for cards for Ryan.

You can read the information further on his blog or you can read the snippet that I've added below:

"On a separate note, Ryan has received a few cards recently and seems to really enjoy opening them and looking at them. We would really like to continue showering him with cards! Below is his address at the hospital if you'd like to send him one. These can also be useful with his rehabilitation by triggering memories. To help his parents and therapists in explaining the cards to Ryan, it'd be great if you could include a picture of yourself and/or a description of how you know each other (i.e. college, work, etc.). Another idea would be to write about a great story or memory you and Ryan share together. Thanks and have a good weekend."

Ryan’s Address:

Attn: Ryan Porcelli, Room M622
Touro Hospital
1401 Foucher St.
New Orleans, LA 70115

If you could be SO lovely to send a RAK card to Ryan, I KNOW that it would make his day, put a smile on his face, and bring him encouragement and strength for the long and healing road that lies ahead of him.

To avoid confusion, please write somewhere in the card that you are a friend of Meredith Winston - Ethan Goldstein's sister. That way Ryan will have a frame of reference as to where the card originated from.

Also - (and I know I'm asking a lot) but if you could forward this to anyone you know that might send a card out I'd be greatly appreciative!! I think it's a very worthy cause and something that all of us can easily do with all of the boxes of cards we have lying around! =)

I truly and sincerely appreciate you taking the time to read this and hopefully drop a fun and cheery card in the mail to Ryan.

Don't hesitate to let me know if you have ANY questions!!

Thank you so much my darling crafty friends!!

XOXO-
Meredith
************************************************************************
Here is the link to Meredith's blog post about the Call for Cards for Ryan.

I know everyone is very busy at this time of year with last minute vacations and getting ready for back-to-school, but please take a few minutes to send a card to Ryan!! Please make sure to add your card to the Inlinkz link on the post above. There is a fabulous prize package for every person that sends a card to Ryan!

If you'd like to add the badge to the sidebar of your blog, please let me know and I'll get it to you.
If you've made it this far, I appreciate the time you spent reading this post...and I'd REALLY appreciate it if you could pass this information along to your other stamping friends! Thanks SO much and I know that Ryan and his family will appreciate it, too!

Meade Girls' Halloween/Fall Shoebox Swap

2011-08-14T09:04:00.001-04:00

I just LOVE getting together with my stamping friends! Yesterday, Amanda and Cindy hosted a Halloween/Fall-themed shoebox swap. What FUN!!! We made some FABULOUS cards and treat holders, played bingo, wore funny hats, had a ribbon challenge, ate and chatted away the day!

This is a peppermint patty holder that I got as a treat from our hostesses:

This is the card that I created to take to the swap for my friends to make. Simple, but I think it turned out cute.

Stamps: Calendar Kids, Happy Halloween sentiment (Stampin' Up)
Papers: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, old Halloween DSP (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black for sponging
Accessories: spong, Cuttlebug, Cuttlebug Spider Web embossing folder, orange dew drops, Aleene's Jewel It glue

Here are the other cards and projects that we made:

This is a card using the wax paper resist created by Theresa R. I LOVE these colors and papers!

A test tube treat holder created by Dawnmarie:

A card and matching treat holder created by Lee:

A slide card created by Michelle D.:

This card was created by Rose. Can you see the little face peeking out from behind the leaves?

A mummy card created by Angie. She's posted a tutorial here on how to make this adorable card.

A pretty fall Thinking of You card created by Michelle G.:

"Bugs & Hisses" created by one of our hostesses, Cindy:

A pretty Thanksgiving card created by Paula R.:

A fall foliage card created by Fran:

Halloween tag card created by Kathy:

"Scaredy Cat" card created by Pete:

This pretty card was created by Kathi:

A chocolate bar holder created by Denise:

TicTac holder created by our other hostess, Amanda:

Frankenstein treat holder created by Theresa S.:

Treat "purse" and "Pumpkin Poop" created by Jane:

Lynn created this pretty "window" scene card:

Set of 3 treat "purses" created by Paula L.:

This cute card was created by JoAnn. I messed mine up so didn't have one to photograph. (That's what I get for not reading the directions!) This is a picture of JoAnn's sample that I took at the swap with my phone.

Each and everyone of these ladies is SO talented! I really enjoy getting together with them and can hardly wait till the next time!!

Thanks for stopping by!! See you again soon, I hope!

Meade Girls Ribbon Challenge

2011-08-13T20:00:00.004-04:00

I spent the day with the Meade Girls at a Halloween-themed shoebox swap. It's always a great time when we get together!! I will post pictures of the cards I made today in a post tomorrow, but for today, I have something more fun...

Our shoebox swaps are never boring...good conversation, delicious food and the most wonderful cards that you can imagine!!! This swap was no different...but this time, there was a challenge...Amanda and Cindy, our SBS hostesses, challenged us all to create a card or other project using the ribbon that they provided us. Cards would be given a number and swappers would vote on their favorites. Whoever's card receives the most votes wins all of the challenge cards! We received our strip of green ribbon with black (or was it brown? I think it's black!) and orange dots on it in the mail a month before the swap. Everyone put on their thinking caps...as soon as I saw those dots on the ribbon, I remembered I had an image called Rex Loves Cake from Pink Cat Studios. I thought the dots on the ribbon matched the dots on Rex's cake. Take a look...whatdya think??

Close-up view:

Isn't Rex adorable??? And don't those dots match perfectly? Then I remembered the scraps of old Halloween DSP from Stampin' Up that sort of kind of matched the dots...so...that's how I ended up with this card. It's "busy" but I like it! :) Inside it says "Have a RAWR-ing good birthday!" I think it would be great for a young boy's October birthday...now if I only KNEW a young boy with an October birthday!!!!

Congratulations to Amanda for winning the ribbon challenge! She gets all 19 of the cards that were entered into the contest!! And they were ALL fabulous!!!

This is the second time that Amanda has given us a ribbon challenge...I sure hope there's a third!!

Stamps: Rex Loves Cake by Pink Cat Studio
Papers: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Certainly Celery, retired Halloween DSP (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Ink: Basic Black for sponging
Accessories: Copic markers, sponge, dotted ribbon and orange satin ribbon (Offray), large orange button (Stampin' Up), Cuttlebug, Oval and Scalloped Oval Nestabilities, glue dot, pop dots, black embroidery floss

Published!

2011-08-13T19:30:00.005-04:00

Woo hoo! I came from from a fabulous day of stamping with my friends to find my complimentary copy of Just Cards Holidays, Volume 3 waiting in my mailbox!! AND one of my cards was on the cover!!!!! It NEVER gets old seeing your work published in a magazine!!

Here are the 2 cards of mine that were published:

This card on page 79...

...and this card on page 97 which was also the card that is on the cover!

It's been so long since I sent these cards in to the magazine that I had totally forgotten about them!

Two of my friends also had cards published in this issue. Amanda had two cards (pages 75 and 86) and Tracy had one (page 114).

If you get the chance, check it out!!

Come back tomorrow and I'll have pictures of all of the fabulous projects that we made at the shoebox swap today!

Fun in the Sun!

2011-08-10T23:00:00.001-04:00

It's August and summer will be coming to an end soon...we need to get out and have as much fun in the sun as we can before cooler weather is here. This little guy, Peyton, is enjoying himself at the beach soaking up the sun and playing in the sand...

Isn't he adorable? This simple card only took a couple of minutes to put together not counting the time it took to color the image. Sure makes me want to be "downy ocean" as we Marylanders say.

The image is called Bucket and Spade Peyton and right now he's on sale at Digital Delights!!! Go check out Peyton and the other images that are on sale...but hurry! These fabulous prices won't last long!!

Stamps: Bucket and Spade Peyton, Fun in the Sun sentiment
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Cool Carribean, Summer Sun (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, patterned paper (Close to My Heart)
Accessories: Copic Markers, clear Dew Drops, Aleene's Jewel It glue, circle punch, pop dots

PTT #28- Photo Inspiration Challenge

2011-08-09T00:00:00.002-04:00

It's time for this week's Party Time Tuesdays Challenge! This week, we were challenged to create a card using this photo as inspiration...

...and this is what I came up with...

The image that I used is Strawberry Surf from Crafts & Me. Isn't she gorgeous? This image is on the opposite side of the spectrum from my usual type, but she was SO much fun to color!!!

Head on over to Party Time Tuesdays Challenge blog and play along. I'd love to see what you can create using the photo as inspiration!!

Stamps: Strawberry Surf digi-image by Crafts & Me
Papers: Brilliant Blue, Tempting Turquoise, Marigold Morning (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Accessories: Copic Markers, Cuttlebug, D'Vine Swirls Embossing Folder, gold organdy ribbon (Offray), pop dots, string pearls

NEW RELEASE!!

2011-08-03T23:00:00.004-04:00

It's time for another Digital Delights new release! There are 4 brand new stamp sets and one digital paper set being released today!!! Stamp sets are available in both colored and uncolored versions. Here's what's new:

Aren't they all wonderful?? Here's a sample (or two) using Fall Kids, Fall Sentiments and Simply Fall Digital Papers sets...

Make sure to stop by the Digital Delights blog to see samples made using all of the new release sets!!

Card 1:
All DD Stamps: Fall Kids, Fall Sentiments
Used: colored cardstock from Stampin' Up
CS and Papers: Simply Fall Digital Papers by Digital Delights by Louby Loo, colored cardstock from Stampin' Up
Ink: Close to Cocoa (Stampin' Up)
Markers: Copic
Access and Embellishments: Cuttlebug, Nestabilities Label Fifteen, orange stick-on gems (Bling IT from Basic Grey, pop dots, oval and scalloped oval punches, orange grosgrain ribbon (Offray), 1/4" Chocolate Chip grosgrain ribbon (Stampin' Up)
Coloring Medium: alcohol markers

Card 2:
All DD Stamps Used: Fall Kids, Fall Sentiments
CS and Papers: Simply Fall Digital Papers by Digital Delights by Louby Loo, colored cardstock from Stampin' Up
Ink:
Markers: Copic
Access and Embellishments: Cuttlebug, Nestabilities Oval and Scalloped Oval, green grosgrain ribbon (Offray), orange stick-on gems (Bling IT by Basic Grey)
Coloring Medium: alcohol markers

Party Time Tuesday's Blog Hop!

2011-08-02T06:00:00.020-04:00

Welcome to the Party Time Tuesdays Blog Hop!!

If you love birthdays this hop is for you! It is also the inspiration of our challenge. So in order to see the inspiration, you have to HOP! Plus, you will have a chance to win one of 3 prizes. A $25 gift certificate to The Robin's Nest or a $10 gift certificate to Paper Make-up Stamps. Also one lucky person will win this absolutely adorable digi-image from Paper Pretties:

In order to be eligible for the prize giveaway, you have to leave a comment on EACH DT members' PTT post for today, then we will randomly "draw" 3 winners!

Here is the Hop Order:

Party Time Tuesdays Blog
Renee
Danie
Paige
Nancy
Stacy
Jen S
Jackie
Suzanne
Mary
Peggy
Tanya

You should have arrived here from Suzanne's blog. If you didn't, go back to the beginning of the hop at the Party Time Tuesday's blog and start from the there. You really DON'T want to miss anything!!

So, do you wonder WHY I'm involved in the PTT Blog Hop?? Well, I have been selected to be on Party Time Tuesdays Challenge Blog's Design Team!!! WOO HOO!!!

Today is my very first day on their DT and this is my very first post for PTT! I'm a little nervous with this being my first challenge with the team- AND a blog hop! I sure hope that I can keep up with this super-talented group of ladies!!

This week's challenge #27 is to create a birthday card using these very adorable images from
Chi Chi Memories. These images are from a set called Birthday Girl.

Take a look:

I decided to make a long card- something I rarely do...this card measures 8-1/4" x 4" and will fit in a regular legal-sized letter envelope.

I hope that you've enjoyed my card. Head on over to Peggy's blog to see what she has to share with you!

Stamps: Birthday Girl from Chi Chi Memories, sentiment from Sherrod Studio
Papers: Pretty in Pink, Chocolate Chip, retired DSP (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white
Accessories: Copic Markers, 1/4" Chocolate Chip grosgrain ribbon (Stampin' Up), stick-on pearls (Recollections), liquid applique, heat gun

Laid Back Lucy

2011-07-27T23:00:00.004-04:00

We're into the hot and humid days of summer here in Maryland. When it's this hot and humid, all I want to do is sit with a nice, cool drink and do nothing. That's exactly what Laid Back Lucy by Digital Delights is doing here:

Check out the Digital Delights by Louby Loo blog for more inspiration from the design team. You won't believe what they have to share!

All DD Stamps Used : Laid Back Lucy
CS and Papers: cardstock by Stampin' Up
Ink: none
Markers: Copic
Access and Embellishments: D'Vine Swirls, Swiss Dot embossing folders (Cuttlebug), Square Lattice embossing folder (Stampin' Up), Cuttlebug, buttons (Stampin' Up), glue dots
Coloring Medium: alcohol markers
Special Techniques: dry embossing

Christmas In July Sale!

2011-07-23T09:08:00.002-04:00

Digital Delights is having a Christmas in July sale!!!! Christmas images are 10% off now, so hurry! This sale won't last long!!!

More Circus Capers!

2011-07-22T00:00:00.004-04:00

I'm having so much fun "playing" with Digital Delights' new Circus Capers digi-images. Check out what I have for you today- a circus-themed Post-It note holder:

I've had the 3 x 5" acrylic photo frames for what seems like forever, so I decided to finally use one. I've seen so many different Post-It note holder tutorials online, each one being so different from the other. When I saw DD's new Buttons Notice Board image, I thought he'd be perfect for this technique, so, I printed the image out, colored him using my beloved Copic markers, cut the image out and adhered him to the front of the lucite frame. I cut a piece of colorful patterned paper to 3 x 5" and glued that to a piece of white cardstock to give it a little thickness, and put it between the frame. Using redline tape, I adhered the pack of Post-Its to the bottom of the frame being careful not to cover up any of Buttons' cute face. This is a cute, 15-minute project.

I hope you've enjoyed my project for today. Please come back again soon!

Stamps: Buttons Notice Board digi-image (Digital Delights by Louby Loo)
Paper: Neenah 80# white, patterned paper from the Frutti Fusion pack (The Angel Company) Accessories: Copic Markers, 3 x 5" acrylic photo frame (Rite-Aid), Post-It notes, redline tape, Prima flower, glitter brad (Stampin' Up- Bold Brights)

Rainy Day Dilly is a (Digital) Delight!

2011-07-20T23:00:00.004-04:00

Thanks for stopping by today!!! I have the cutest image to show you!!!! Meet Dilly...

Close-up:

The image is called Rainy Day Dilly by Digital Delights by Louby Loo. Isn't he the cutest thing??
Rainy Day Dilly is also available in a pre-colored version for your card-making convenience!

Make sure to stop by the Digital Delights blog to check out the other design team members' creations for this week!!

All DD Stamps Used : Rainy Day Dilly, Make a Splash sentiment
CS and Papers: Stampin' Up cardstock, CTMH designer paper
Ink: none
Markers: Copic
Access and Embellishments: Cuttlebug, Round and Scalloped Round Nestabilities, dew drops, Aleen's Jewel It glue. pop dots
Coloring Medium: alcohol markers

"Summer Daze"

2011-07-20T00:00:00.004-04:00

Bombshell's "Ms. July", Kathi, challenged us to create a project that reflects what summer means to us AND we were to use a handmade embellishment. Most of you know I ride a motorcycle...summer days are perfect for getting out and riding the back roads on my bike. I like riding when it's hot...the hotter the better, in my opinion! For my "Summer Daze" creation, I decided to use one of Bombshells' fabulous motorcycle images. This bike image is very similar to my actual bike, so I use it often. Here is my card:

For my handmade embellishment, I stamped onto white ribbon using the checkboard image from Bombshell's Vintage Motorcycles set. I hope that handstamped ribbon counts as a "handmade embellishment". Here's a close-up:

The papers that I used represent the colors of the great outdoors...blue for the bright summer sky, green and brown for the trees. There's something to be said about the freedom and relaxation of riding on a summer's day! Hmm, I think I'll go for a ride now!! :)

Stamps: Harley Bikes, Vintage Motorcycles
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Brocade Blue (Stampin' Up!), striped patterned paper (Close to My Heart), GP110 white
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Stazon Black
Accessories: Copic Markers, 1" white satin ribbon, clear Dew Drops, Aleen's Jewel It glue

I Have Some "Delight"-ful News!

2011-07-19T23:00:00.003-04:00

The circus has come to town!!!!

Digital Delights has just released a circus-themed set called Circus Capers and boy, what a fun set this is!!! Here are a couple samples that I've made using these adorable images:

This little guy is Popcorn the Monkey...I just love him!!

Next, meet Roley the Ringmaster with the Circus Tent:

I also used the Circus Ticket Sentiments on both cards. If you'd like to see more samples using the Circus Capers images please visit the Digital Delights blog here. To order your very own set of Circus Capers, visit the Digital Delights website! Oh, did I mention that there is also a set of Circus-themed digital papers available? I used the yellow diamond paper on my two cards above and for your card-making convenience, most images are available in a colored version, too!

Popcorn the Monkey card:

All DD Stamps Used: Popcorn the Monkey, Circus Ticket Sentiments
CS and Papers: Basic Black (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, Circus Capers digital paper (Digital Delights)
Ink: Basic Black (for sponging)
Markers: Copic
Access and Embellishments: Cuttlebug, Nestabilities, sponge, liquid applique, red stick-on beads (Michael's), 1/4" red satin ribbon (Offray), pop dots
Coloring Medium: alcohol markers

Roley the Ringmaster card:

All DD Stamps Used : Roley the Ringmaster, Circus Ticket Sentiments
CS and Papers: Basic Black, Real Red (Stampin' Up), Neenah 80# white, Circus Capers digital paper (Digital Delights)
Markers: Copic
Access and Embellishments: Cuttlebug, oval and scalloped oval Nestabilities, pop dots, gold stick-on beads (Michael's), fine-tip Basic Black marker (Stampin' Up)
Coloring Medium: alcohol markers

My First Digital Delights Post!

2011-07-13T23:00:00.000-04:00

Hello! This is my first post as a design team member for Digital Delights by Louby Loo. I've been having SO much fun "playing" with their images! This sweet little girl is Briley...

Did you know that Digitial Delights also offers colored versions of their images?? Check out Briley and her Balloons in the colored version. Perfect for when you need a card quick and don't have time to color the image yourself!

Check out the Digital Delights blog to see what the other design team members have to share!!

All DD Stamps Used : Briley and her Balloons
CS and Papers: Stampin' Up cardstock,
Ink: none
Markers: Copic
Accessories and Embellishments: yellow satin ribbon and white organdy ribbon (Offray), black stick-on beads (Michael's), water balloons, glue dot
Coloring Medium: alchohol-based markers

Bombshell Sketch Challenge- July 2011

2011-07-13T00:00:00.005-04:00

Here's the July sketch for Bombshell Stamps' sketch challenge and it's a fun one!

Here's my take on that sketch:

Close-up:

Head on over to the Bombshell Stamps' blog to see the other DT members' take on this fabulous challenge!! We hope that you'll play along with us! Just create a card using Bombshell Stamps following the above sketch and link it to the Sketch post on the Bombshell Stamps' blog using InLinkz. You might even win a prize!!

Stamps: Hula Girl, Hawaiian Girl, Banner Sayings
Paper: Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Pie, Real Red, Green Galore (Stampin' Up!), GP110 white
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black
Accessories: Cuttlebug, Swiss Dot embossing folder, D'Vine Swirls embossing folder, Square Lattice embossing folder (Stampin' Up!), Copic Markers, green self-stick gems (Bling IT by Basic Grey)

The Dog Days of Summer...Hoedown #23

2011-07-12T18:12:00.004-04:00

The Hambo Hoedown is celebrating the dog days of summer with this adorable Cool Dog digi-image:

Our challenge this week was to use this image BUT...we were to make a ROUND card...no squares, no rectangles allowed! Now, I'm not one to usually read the directions thoroughly...and after reading Leslie's blog and seeing that she made not one but TWO rectangle cards for this challenge before she realized it had to be a ROUND card...I learned by HER mistakes! :) Here is my ROUND card for the Hambo Hoedown #23:

This is the first round card I've ever made. It was fun to do, but I think I need practice!

Now, grab a cold drink of your choice, head on over to the Hambo Challenge Blog, kick back and enjoy the other submissions for this challenge.

Stamps: Cool Dog digi-image (the palm tree is a discard that I found on my desk- Bombshell Stamps)
Ink: Summer Sun for sponging (Stampin' Up)
Papers: Daffodil Delight, Taken With Teal (Stampin' Up), DSP (Basic Grey), Neenah 80# white Accessories: Circle and Scalloped Circle Nestabilities, Cuttlebug, Copic Markers, small black stick-on beads (Michael's)

I Have An Announcement!!!

2011-07-11T08:18:00.000-04:00

Woo Hoo! For the last week or so, I've been bursting at the seams with excitement!!! Now, I can finally spill the beans!!! I have been asked to be on the Digital Delights by Louby Loo design team!!!

My term will start on Thursday, July 14th and run through the end of January. If you've never heard of Digital Delights by Louby Loo, go check 'em out!! They have such cute images!!!!! Check back here on Thursday when I post my first card for their Design Team!!

Mark your calendar for the first Thursday of each month- that's NEW RELEASE day for Digital Delights!! Trust me- the images being released on August 4th are SO adorable!!! You won't want to miss out!!

Now, excuse me while I go do cartwheels! YES, I'm THAT excited! :)