Stamping with Friends

Guess what today is!!!

2012-01-24T11:26:00.001-08:00

Today is the start of the 2012 Sale-a-bration!!!!

During Sale-a-bration, Stampin' Up!'s most anticipated annual event, you can earn FREE products in 3 different ways:
1. Earn free product for every $60 purchase!
2. Host a party and get a free exclusive shopping tote and more!
3. Take advantage of the $150 starter kit special. Get designer paper or digital downloads for the rest of the year!

Click here to see the 2012 Sale-a-bration catalogue with all the great free products you can get!

Some Christmas Cards!

2012-01-24T10:29:00.000-08:00

Here are some more of the cards we made for Christmas last month:

This one uses the new "Stocking Builder" punch and the "Snow Burst" embossing folder, and was a lot of fun to mix and match the different papers (including the new red & silver "Glimmer Papers")...

Here is a close-up of the little stockings...

This card uses the beautiful new "Comfort & Joy" (embossed in Pewter) and "Hand-Penned Holidays" stamps...

Here is another one using the "Hand-Penned Holidays" stamp, the "Frostwood Lodge" paper pack, and the "Winter Wishes" stitched felt emellishments...

This one uses the "Petals-a-Plenty" embossing die, the "Frostwood Lodge" paper pack, and the cute little "Winter Wishes" stitched felt embellishments...

Lovely As a Tree Birthday Card

2012-01-24T09:56:00.000-08:00

Here is a great masculine card that we made using the "Lovely As a Tree" stamp set and the "Frosty Lodge" paper pack. Some of us used it as a Christmas card as well!

2012 Occasions Mini Catalogue

2012-01-11T22:48:00.000-08:00

The new 2012 Occasions Mini Catalogue is here! Click here to view it and see all the great new products that are available. I can't decide which ones I like the best! The items are available to order from January 4th-April 30th.

Happy Stamping!

More Christmas Lodge

2011-12-14T21:07:00.000-08:00

Here is another version of the "Christmas Lodge" card. Everyone was really happy with both of them!

Christmas Lodge

2011-12-14T21:04:00.000-08:00

This card was made using the new "Christmas Lodge" stamp set found in the 2011 Holiday Mini Catalogue, and embossing it in gold.

The Stockings Were Hung By the Chimney With Care....

2011-12-14T20:58:00.000-08:00

Isn't this card cute?! We did this at our last Stampin' Club, using the new "Holiday Stocking" Bigz L Die (from the 2011 Holiday Mini Catalogue). The "Petals-a-Plenty" embossing folder was also used, as well as Dazzling Diamonds glitter.

Clear-Mount Perfectly Placed Guides

2011-12-14T20:54:00.000-08:00

Place these repositionable guides on clear blocks to line up and position stamp images. Includes eight die-cut guides sized for blocks, D, E, F, H, and I, and three guides you cut to customize. Straight, angled, and curvy lines on guides help you easily line up sentiments, images, and repeated patterns. Guides come on two 8-1/2" x 11" sheets.

Glitter!

2011-11-25T10:48:00.000-08:00

Here is one we did quite a while ago, but is still one of my favourites! Gotta love glitter!

Squares, squares, squares!

2011-11-14T21:02:00.000-08:00

Another card from our Stampin' Club. You can never have too many birthday cards and this technique is simple yet very effective, especially if you use a punch to cut out the squares.

Flower Garden

2011-11-03T23:29:00.000-07:00

Here is a card we made using the "Flower Garden" Textured Impressions Embossing Folder. It kind of reminds me of pretty poppies. Quite fitting for this time of year with Remembrance Day just around the corner!

2011-10-27T14:48:00.000-07:00

Here is a pretty card we made at our last Card Club using a butterfly Stampin' Around Wheel, the Large Lace Ribbon Border Punch, and the Beautiful Butterflies Bigz die. We all thought it turned out quite pretty...I LOVE butterflies!

Get a Free Stamp Set!

2011-10-03T20:28:00.000-07:00

Free Big Shot Offer!

2011-10-03T20:18:00.000-07:00

An offer to DIE for!

If you've been looking for an opportunity to do what you love, while getting a 20 discount on your favourite products, now is the perfect time! During October, you'll get a FREE Big Shot when you join the Stampin' Up! family as a demonstrator.*

Use the Big Shot die-cutting machine and Stampin' Up!'s exclusive dies** to create uniquely beautiful projects in a flash.

In addition, the new-demonstrator Starter Kit--a steal at just $215--contains over $425 worth of stamp sets, card stock, ink, accessories, and business supplies--everything you need to start your new business.

There are so many benefits of being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, including

Don't miss this BIG deal! Contact your demonstrator today to learn how you can take advantage of this great opportunity and get your FREE Big Shot!

*Or up to $125 in FREE Stampin' Up! products
**Big Shot dies sold separately

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2011-09-06T23:19:00.000-07:00

The TV commercial that recently came out to announce the beginning of the new school year reminds me of Christmas which, amazingly, is only a few short months away as well!

With that in mind, the 2011 Holiday Mini Catalogue is also out! These products are available from September 1, 2011-Jan 3, 2012...just in time for your holiday stamping!

Click here to see all the great new products!

Glittery Butterflies, oh my!

2011-07-20T14:11:00.000-07:00

Here we used one of our favourite stamps sets, "Thoughts & Prayers" at our last Stampin' Club. We also added a pretty purple glitter butterfly using the Stampin' Up! Sticky Sheets. We simply cut out our butterfly shape using the Embosslits "Beautiful Wings" die, then covered the sticky sheet in purple glitter. Wonderful!

The 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalogue is here!

2011-07-20T13:50:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness, I can't believe what I did! I thought I had already posted about the new Stampin' Up! catalogue (that I KNOW you have been anxiously awaiting!) and just realized that I had left the post as a "draft" instead of publishing it! I truly apologize for my error!

There are tons of wonderful new items. To view the catalogue, simply click here. Otherwise, if you would like to see it in person or would even like to purchase a copy, feel free to contact me.

Thoughts & Prayers

2011-06-01T16:34:00.000-07:00

A popular stamp set has been "Thoughts & Prayers". We used it during our Card Club last month to make this Get Well Soon card and everyone was very pleased with it! I'm glad they aren't discontinuing this set as it is one of my favourites and can be used for so many things.

Get these products before they're gone!

2011-06-01T16:26:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. Yes, soon there will be a new catalogue out, and that means we will soon have to say goodbye to some old favourites in order to make room for some exciting new products.

Click here to see all the discontinued items and be sure to act quick before they're gone!

Elegant Bouquet

2011-06-01T16:16:00.000-07:00

I just love using the embossing folders. They really add a finished touch to a card and really make it look professional.

This is one of the cards we made at our last Card Club, using the "Elegant Bouquet" Textured Impressions Embossing Folder. We all thought this card was simple but elegant...just perfect for a sympathy card!

Delft Tile Effect

2011-05-19T00:36:00.001-07:00

Here is a neat card we made at our last Card Class, using the "Delft Tile" technique to make the front look like tiles ("Delft" is the popular blue Dutch pottery).

We scored the lines at equal intervals on the front of the card, then folded back the sections and carefully inked the edges, being careful not to get any in the cracks in order to make it look like grout.

It was finished off with some bling. Gotta love bling!

Celebrate National Scrapbooking Month!

2011-05-13T10:26:00.000-07:00

To celebrate National Scrapbooking month, Stampin' Up! is having a sale! They are giving 30% off a variety of products, including some stamp sets, digital downloads, and My Digital Studio Print Products.

Not only that, when you join the Stampin' Up! family, you receive an extra add-on bonus as well!

Click the image above for details!

Strength & Hope

2011-05-13T10:15:00.001-07:00

As part of their "Make a Difference" program, Stampin' Up! is proud to partner with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation in the Strength and Hope Campaign.
From May 1- August 31, 2011, Stampin' Up! will donate $2 from the sale of each Strength & Hope Set (either the clear mounted set, the wood mounted set, or the digital set) to the BCRF!
Here is what this beautiful set looks like:

Sailboats, and neckties, and flip flops....oh my!

2011-05-06T15:08:00.000-07:00

The new Summer Mini Catalogue is out! There are so many fabulous new products in this catalogue. Like I mentioned in the title, those are just some of the great new stamps that you won't want to miss!

There are also a couple new "triple layer" punches that I know you'll love that cut out 3 different images that can be layered on top of each other or used separately.

Click HERE to see all the great new products that are only available from May 1- Aug 31.

Another Easter card using Easter Blossoms...

2011-05-02T11:11:00.001-07:00

Here is another Easter card made use the beautiful "Easter Blossoms" set. This was a tri-fold card with a little peek-a-boo window made using the Designer Label Punch to show the Easter sentiment.
To achieve this affect with the 2 different colours for the leaves and flowers, we simply painted the stamp using the Watercolour Markers.
Beautiful!

Colour Retrofit Kits will be gone soon!

2011-04-28T11:47:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that you have until June 30th to take advantage of Stampin' Up!'s "Colour Renovation Retrofit Kits", which are special kits that were made up of the latest new colours, to allow you get just the new colours, without having to buy colours that you already have.

There are various kits available for the ink pads, markers, paper, etc. Get them before it's too late!

Easter Blossoms

2011-04-12T11:15:00.000-07:00

One of the new stamp sets in the 2011 Occasions Mini Catalogue (which is still in effect until April 30th) is the "Easter Blossoms" set. Here is one of the 2 cards that we made using it. It made a lovely Easter card, but could be used for any event!

Spring is Blossoming!

2011-04-12T10:59:00.000-07:00

From April 1-30, Stampin' Up! is giving everyone a sneak peek at 2 new products from the upcoming 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalogue! These 2 products are available to order now. Click here for more details!

Spring is in the air!

2011-04-12T10:35:00.000-07:00

During our last Stampin' Club, we decided to help welcome Spring (hope Mother Nature heard us and it finally gets here soon!) and make some beautiful Spring and Easter themed cards! This one uses the "2-Step Bird Punch" that includes a cute bird and branch.

Happily Ever After!

2011-03-24T22:02:00.000-07:00

With Spring just around the corner, it also means the popular "wedding season" is also approaching. Here is a card made by my friend, Jan Garrett, using the "Ever After" set to make a wedding card. That set is so dainty and pretty and just the perfect touch for weddings, Valentine's Day, Anniversaries and so much more!

A Resounding Success!

2011-03-24T21:55:00.000-07:00

We want to thank everyone, including the scrappers and vendors, who came out to our 6th Annual Scrapbooking and Stamping Day in Arkona. It was a HUGE success and everyone had a LOT of fun!

Be sure you book your spot for next year, as it sells out quickly!

Paper Daisies

2011-03-16T12:21:00.000-07:00

Have you tried the Paper Daisies yet? They are really cool paper flowers (come in a pack of 40: 4 sizes of 10 each) and the really neat thing about them is that they are white and you can use any colour of ink or marker to colour them (either colour directly on them with marker or dip them in a mixture of ink and water, or sponge ink onto them, etc...there are tons of possibilities!).

Here is a pretty card we made using them. The colour is very faint in the photo, but we applied it by lightly dabbing it with a sponge...

Here is a closeup to show a little better view of the sponging...

Paper Tearing

2011-03-08T21:34:00.001-08:00

Here is a card made from the beautiful new set called "Nature Walk" from the 2011 Occasion Mini Catalogue. We layered it on 4 pieces of torn paper for a very simple yet dramatic effect!

Framed Tulips

2011-03-01T15:24:00.000-08:00

This card uses the new Textured Impressions Embossing Folder called "Framed Tulips". Doesn't that add a pretty touch to the outside of the card.

Another pretty touch is the hatpin stuck through the ribbon, with pearls and beads from the "Pretties Kit".

I can't believe it has been 6 years already!!!

2011-02-17T22:47:00.000-08:00

COME JOIN US FOR THE

6^TH ANNUAL ARKONA

STAMPING &

SCRAPPING

DAY!

And help support Cancer at the same time!!!

When: Saturday, March 19^th, 2011

Where: Arkona Senior’s Hall (corner of Arkona Rd and Victoria St.)
Time: 10:00 a. m. - 9:00 p. m.

Includes: Scrapping room, snacks, lunch AND supper, door prizes, free “Make and Takes”, shopping, etc.

Cost: $40/person (proceeds go to Cancer)

You can also shop while you crop!

Skribbles and Scraps is bringing the store to us, plus there will be consultants there providing demonstrations and “Make and Takes” from CTMH (Close To My Heart), Creative Memories, and Stampin’ Up!

Space is limited…**Prepaid registration required by March 12, 2011**

To register or for more information, please contact:

Lizz Vanderkant

519-828-3850

8061 Tamarack Line,

RR1

Arkona, ON

Email: lizz_51@hotmail.com

Elizabeth Peters

519-828-3799

Box 205, 7357 Arkona Rd Arkona, ON

Email: tinlizzy56@live.com

Reminder about Sale-a-bration...

2011-02-17T22:44:00.001-08:00

Just putting out a reminder that Stampin' Up!'s 2011 Sale-a-bration is still going strong! From now, until March 31st, for every $60 you spend, you get to pick out a free item from the awesome Sale-a-bration catalogue!

There are some great stamps sets and other products in there. Give me a call or email if you would like to see the catalogue, or else look further down in this blog at the link I posted so you can see it online.

Some cards!

2011-02-06T21:51:00.000-08:00

Here are the cards we made at our last Stampin' Club! The girls all loved them!

That "Countryside" stamp set is great for masculine cards, and the "Lovely as a Tree" set is always so useful.

The next card was a great hit, with its double fold and "Scallop Trim Punch" border.

The final card was pretty and very versatile with its stamp being done in craft ink, then coloured in with Watercolour Pencils, and highlighted with white Signo Gel Pen.

It's Here!!!!

2011-01-27T13:43:00.000-08:00

Here is some info from the Stampin' Up! website. To see the great new FREE products, just click on the image above!

Join the Sale-A-Bration!

It's Sale-A-Bration time again at Stampin' Up!, and friends, fresh ideas, and free product is what it's all about!

Every year Stampin' Up! gives customers, hostesses, and new demonstrators the opportunity to earn fantastic, FREE, limited-edition products they'll enjoy for years to come.

Here's how Sale-A-Bration works:

Spend: When you spend $60 on Stampin' Up! merchandise, you'll receive a free Sale-A-Bration reward. There's no limit--for every $60 you spend, you can select another FREE Sale-A-Bration reward! To start earning free, exclusive Sale-A-Bration rewards, contact me now.

Host: When you host a workshop of at least $395 (before tax and shipping), you'll receive a free Sale-A-Bration reward in addition to all of the regular hostess benefits! Contact your demonstrator today to schedule your Sale-A-Bration workshop.

Join: During Sale-A-Bration, anyone who joins as a demonstrator gets 15 percent off the price of the standard or Digital+ Starter Kits--that's over $375 worth of high-quality Stampin' Up! products for just $182.75! In addition, new demonstrators get a FREE Bonus Bundle worth up to $60! To take advantage of this special, limited-time offer, contact me today.

The Sale-A-Bration promotion starts on January 25 and runs through March 31, so don't miss your chance to earn free products! Talk to your demonstrator today to book your workshop or learn more about this promotion. Your demonstrator has a full-colour Sale-A-Bration brochure full of beautiful project ideas you can make using these limited-edition Sale-A-Bration sets.

Yippee!!! The new Sale-a-bration Catalogue is almost out!

2011-01-20T11:01:00.000-08:00

The new Sale-a-bration catalogue is out and I can't wait to share it with you (I can't show you until January 25th, but the catalogues are already out, so give me a call or email if you want one!).
There are so many cute new products in there that you can have for FREE with every $60 order. There is no limit either...EACH $60 you spend from January 25th-March 31 earns you a free item!

You Rock!

2011-01-17T23:44:00.000-08:00

So many people struggle with cards for teenagers (and adults who are young at heart!). The "Extreme" series of stamps are great for making cards and scrapbook pages for this group.

There is the "Extreme Skateboarding", "Extreme Snowboarding", "Extreme Dirtbiking", and "Extreme Guitar", as well as the "Extreme Elements" set that has some really neat 'grungy' backgrounds that go really well with the above stamps.

The new Occasions Mini is out!!!

2011-01-06T12:46:00.000-08:00

2011 Occasions Mini Catalogue (January 4, 2011-April 30, 2011)

There are so many great products available in this Occasions Mini, and I especially love the new "Build A Cupcake" Punch!

Click HERE to view it online.

Call me or email me if you would like to see all the great new, limited edition items.

Filled With Love Promotion!

2011-01-06T12:43:00.000-08:00

Take a look at this (click on the image above)...this is a cute bundle!

Let It Snow, Let It Snow....Let It Snow!

2010-12-17T06:26:00.000-08:00

All this snow we've had lately has certainly made it look more like Christmas around here.

Here are some of the cards we made at our last Card Club, all set to give out to loved ones for the holidays! At least 2 of the ladies went home and re-created some variations using different colours, so I will post those in the next couple days as well.

Happy Card Making!

It's Deer Season!

2010-12-02T11:17:00.000-08:00

Lots of orange and camo has been spotted out around the countryside here in Lambton County this week. Here is a pretty deer-themed card in honour of that...perfect for the outdoors-lover on your list!

It's AMAZING!!! SALE! SALE! SALE!

2010-11-23T05:56:00.000-08:00

They're calling it a "Rare Offer" and it truly is! Stampin' Up! is having a 9 Day sale starting November 22 until November 30, 2010.

Several items are available at 30% off or 40% off and even 50% off, including the "My Digital Studio" at an amazing 50% off!

Not only that, for every order over $200, you get FREE shipping.

Wow! What an awesome sale....just in time for Christmas!

For more details, click here or on the image above and then give me a call! (Note: it is being called an "Online Spectactular", but is available to everyone, not just online)

Look WHOOOO'S Having a Birthday!

2010-11-22T19:01:00.000-08:00

I think the new Stampin' Up! "Two-Step Owl" punch is absolutely adorable! The punch includes all the parts you see on the owl, including the eyes, and then we just topped it off by adding some brads to the eyes.
We made this card at our last Card Club night and some the girls stamped the setiment "Look Who's Turning _!" on their while others left theirs blank as there really are tons of uses for this card! (eg. "Who Loves You?", "You're a Hoot!", "From Owl of Us!", "Hoot-Hoot Hooray!", etc)

Guess what is just around the corner!!!

2010-11-09T11:55:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that Christmas is just around the corner?! Get a head start on your Christmas cards with this gorgeous card using the trees from the "Scenic Season" set and the deer from the "Nature Silhouettes" set, and a little bit of "Dazzling Diamonds" glitter.
This card is also great for an outdoor-lover's birthday, Thank You, Father's Day, etc!

ABCs of the Perfect Handmade Holiday!

2010-10-29T13:39:00.000-07:00

Create Amazing cards, Beautiful packaging, and Cherished gifts this holiday season!From October 19-December 16, choose from several different holiday bundles containing gorgeous Stampin' Up! products--perfect for creating cards, gift packaging, and gifts--and all at 20% off!

Click on the above image for more details and to see the bundles!

My Digital Studio Design Contest

2010-10-19T07:12:00.000-07:00

Date: October 1-November 15, 2010Stampin' Up! invites YOU to participate in its first ever digital design contest using My Digital Studio and Stampin' Up!'s digital downloads! The My Digital Studio Design contest was created to recognize the amazing digital design skills of our talented, creative customers and demonstrators! The contest is open to all customers and demonstrators who have access to My Digital Studio in the US and Canada; five customers and five demonstrators will be selected to win. To enter the contest you will need to design one digital card and two single-page layouts using ONLY My Digital Studio product and Stampin' Up downloads. Submit all samples along with an official entry form and photo release form (if applicable) to MDSContest@stampinup.com.
Winners will receive free My Digital Studio digital downloads from Stampin' Up valued at approximately $500! You will also receive a digital pin for your personal blog.
Don't own My Digital Studio or want to purchase new Stampin' Up! digital downloads? Call me at 828-3850!
Our panel of judges can't wait to see your digital artistry on display, so submit your project today!

For more info, click on the image above.

A Fall Birthday...

2010-10-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

Aren't the colours in this cards gorgeous? Of course, you can use this card any time of year, but the browns and oranges just remind me of fall. LOVE this time of year!

Create a Haunted House or Gingerbread House or any other themed house you want with the....

2010-10-05T15:33:00.000-07:00

...Design-a-House Decor Accents!

One look at Stampin' Up!'s Design-a-House Décor Accents and I know you’ll instantly have multiple ideas of how to decorate this charming little cottage for all kinds of holidays and occasions. Whether it’s haunted, looks like it’s made of gingerbread and candies, or dressed up as a centerpiece for a housewarming party, there are all kinds of ways to use this piece for adding a special touch of beauty to your home or a friend’s home. Let your imagination guide you in choosing from our many Designer Series papers and other accessories to adorn your little house.

■ Charming and versatile holiday décor item
■ Create a Christmas village, gingerbread house, haunted house, or Build-a-Bear Workshop® Playhouse
■ Finished house size approximately 6-1/4” x 6” x 5”
■ Embellish as much or as little as you like
■ White

Ok, ladies, it's time to steal your hubby's/father's/brother's shaving foam!

2010-09-24T10:31:00.000-07:00

This is a really neat technique where you spray some shaving foam on a plate, add some drops of Stampin' Up! ink (from the refill bottles), swirl the ink around in the foam, gently lay your card front on top, wipe off...and VOILA, you have a GORGEOUS card!
Easy-peasy, and it looks great!

2010-09-10T07:50:00.000-07:00

Don't let this tote-ally awesome opportunity pass you by!
September 1 through October 18, receive a FREE craft tote--a $49.95 value--when you join Stampin' Up! as a demonstrator! Imagine sharing your love of Stampin' Up! with this stylish and practical tote, patterned after our Greenhouse Gala Designer Series Paper and large enough to carry 12" x 12" card stock and a Paper Cutter, as well as punches, ink pads, and accessories. And with two Starter Kits* to choose from--Standard and Digital+--at a new lower price, there's never been a better time to join the Stampin' Up! family.Contact me to get started with this tote-ally awesome opportunity.

*Sample Starter Kit contents pictured in tote

Click on the image above to see a video with more details about the tote!

Deck the Halls With Boughs of Holly......!

2010-09-02T12:18:00.000-07:00

Well, maybe it isn't QUITE yet time to deck the halls, but before you know it, it soon will be!

In the meantime, you can get a jump-start on your Christmas cards and gifts using the beautiful new products from the 2010 Holiday Mini Catalogue that was released today!

There are tons of new limited edition stamps, papers, tools, and other products, even some cool new fabrics...yes, that's right...fabrics!

This mini catalogue is in effect from Sept 1, 2010- January 3, 2011. For more info and to see the catalogue, just click on the image above.

Retrofit Your Existing SU! products...

2010-08-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

Do you want all the fabulous new colours but don't want to have to buy the whole set to get them?
Stampin' Up! is now offering you the chance (from now until June 30, 2011) to retrofit your existing Stampin' Up! products with new colour kits! Get all of Stampin' Up!'s new colours (and just the colours you need) without the expense of replacing products you already have!
Click on the image above for more info.

Extra! Extra!

2010-07-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

Extra! Extra! Stampin' Up! hostesses get extra hostess awards July 27-August 31, in addition to the already fantastic hostess benefits! Click the image above for details!

Zippidity Do Dah, Zippity Day, my oh my what a wonderful......catalogue!

2010-07-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

Yaayy!!! The new 2010-2011 Idea Book & Catalogue is here and it looks fabulous! There are a TON of great new products and I really like how they organized the catalogue this time. It seems much easier to find the items you're looking for and to see what all is available, especially how they now have the inks, markers, papers, embellishments, etc all colour-grouped together.
Give me a call if you would like your own copy or else click on the image above to see it online!

Greenhouse Garden

2010-06-17T09:23:00.000-07:00

I just love this stamp set! This is the Greenhouse Garden set and it is a "2-Step" stamping set, which means the main flowers (lighter solid parts) are stamped first, and then the darker 'veins' are stamped on after. Gives a really nice effect!

Here is another nifty idea to do with your border punches. Fold the paper in half and then use the border punch (here we used the Scallop Trim Border punch), and then unfold, and tada! You can now weave your ribbon through it and tie a pretty bow!

Peace Within

2010-06-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

Here is another card made with the "Peace Within" stamp set that I think could be used for either a man or a woman.
We also offset the length of the front to add a little interest and show off our birthday message!

2010-06-02T07:10:00.000-07:00

Isn't this a cute card? This nifty little card is called an "easel card", and a simple brad and a few quick folds is all there is to it! A perfect way to add a different twist to a card and really show off your message!

$119 Starter Kit Promotion!

2010-06-02T07:02:00.000-07:00

From June 1-30, 2010, you can start your own business for just $119! Stampin' Up! is now offering a Mini Starter Kit (valued at over $220) for just $119.
Click here for more details!

Get Them Before They're Gone!!!

2010-06-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

Stampin' UP! has announced several "Last Chance" items that are being discontinued and only available while supplies last. Click on the image above for more details.

Get them before they're gone!

Add some "Punch" to your cards!

2010-05-13T20:30:00.000-07:00

Here we made great use of Stampin' Up!'s double sided paper (DSP) and the "Large Oval", "Scalloped Oval" and "5-Petal Flower" punches to make this fresh, Spring-y card!
We also dry embossed the flower petals to give them dimension and pop off the page.

Bride/Groom Specialty paper

2010-05-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

This "Bride", "Groom", and "Bridesmaid" line of Specialty papers are often overlooked as the catalogue doesn't do them justice. They truly do have to be seen in person to see just how elegant and classy they really are!
We used the Sizzix Bigz die, "Lattice" to make this simple but elegant card, using papers from both the "Bride" (white) and "Groom" (black) paper packs.

Here is a closeup to show the detail in the paper. Isn't it gorgeous?!

Dust off that paper crimper!

2010-05-11T09:57:00.000-07:00

Remember that fancy-dancy paper crimper you have tucked away in your crafting supplies? It's time to dig it out!
This card looks like it's difficult to make, but it's actually quite easy. Just fold the corners of your paper in, feed the whole thing (still folded) into your paper crimper, and then ink the folds.
Finish it off with the stamp of your choice (we used the bird from "Spring Song"), add a nice bow, and you're done!

The new Summer Mini Catalogue is here!

2010-05-03T13:56:00.000-07:00

The new 2010 Summer Mini Catalogue is here and is filled with lots of fun stamps, embellishments, dies and other great products, including a new "Double Cog" punch! Click on the picture above to see all the great new items that will only be available from May 1-August 31, 2010.

May is National Scrapbooking Month!

2010-05-03T13:51:00.000-07:00

May is National Scrapbooking Month, and to celebrate, Stampin' Up! is giving way free packages of Designer Brads! See below for details...
(click on the image to see the qualifying stamp sets)

New Colours!

2010-04-28T21:36:00.000-07:00

Stampin' Up! has announced some exciting news...

....they are doing a "colour renovation"!

Starting in JULY, some of the current colours will be discontinued to make room for some more up-to-date colours, some of the retired "In Colours" will be returning, and some fresh new colours will be added!

(click on the images above more more details)
The 5 completely NEW COLORS:
Marina Mist, Daffodil Delight, Cherry Cobbler, Cajun Craze and Early Espresso

The 10 RETURNING IN COLORS:
Baja Breeze, Melon Mambo, Pink Pirouette, Rich Razzleberry, Riding Hood Red, River Rock, Soft Suede, Tangerine Tango and Wild Wasabi

Not only that, we will still get 5 MORE brand new In-Colors in July too, which will stay active for TWO years! And then a year after their release, we will get 5 more new in colors, which also stay active for two years. So we will always have 10 in colors with rotating new ones in and old ones out…

For the colours that are being discontinued, don't fret as you will still be able to purchase them right now up until the end of June, so please be sure to stock up at least on the ink refills of your must have colors (2-3 bottles per ink pad will last you forever!!!!)

April showers bring May flowers...and so does the Ornament Punch!

2010-04-16T10:13:00.000-07:00

We're in the middle of April right now and the forecast is calling for rain. The best thing about a nice spring shower, is the pretty flowers that follow.

That means it is also time to bring out the Stampin' Up! Ornament Punch. Yes, you heard that right...the Ornament Punch! No, it isn't anywhere near Christmastime, but it's time to dust off that Ornament Punch and put it to work making these beautiful roses.

We simply punched out a minimum of 13 'petals' with the punch and rolled them around a pencil, with some of them being wrapped tighter than others. We then bent back to top part of the ornament and stuck them down on our card, starting from the outside and working our way in, making sure they were staggered and that the ones that were wrapped tighter were in the center.

Of course, we had a few laughs over the thought of actually trying to send a card like this in the mail! :) This is one of the special cards that definitely needs to be hand delivered! Imagine what a nice gift it would make though, all wrapped up in a pretty box with a nice gift card?

Two-Step Into Spring!

2010-04-13T07:15:00.000-07:00

Stampin' Up!'s Two-Step Stampin' sets allow you to quickly and easily take your creativity to the next level. And now, from April 1-30 only, you can purchase the brand new "Awash with Flowers" Two-Step Stampin' set or get it FREE when you host a $460 workshop!

Awash with Flowers Stamp Set (wood mount) $52.95
Awash with Flowers Stamp Set (clear mount) $36.95

Plus, get 20% off a selection of perfectly springy Two-Step Stampin' sets from our current catalogue:
Greenhouse Garden $27.96
Fifth Avenue Floral $26.36
Flower Fancy $39.16
Trendy Trees $19.16

Printed Window Sheets

2010-04-13T07:01:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favourite cards that we have made in our Stamping Club. It uses the "Clearly Thanks" Printed Window Sheets. They really add a nice, elegant touch.
The photo below shows a closeup view so you can see the details on the window sheet better.

King for a Day!

2010-04-06T22:36:00.000-07:00

The "Card Games" stamp set is so fun! At first glance, it looks pretty limited in what you can use it for, but there really are a lot of fun ideas you can come up with, even if the person isn't a 'game person'.

This card was made for a teenaged boy for his birthday, but with the "King for a Day" sentiment, it could easily be used for Father's Day as well.

The other stamps say "Queen of Everything" (Queen) or "You Make Me Laugh" (Joker) but you could easily mask off the words and put in any saying you want, or even leave it blank.

Country Living Cards a la Carte...available until April 30th!

2010-03-28T22:42:00.000-07:00

Stampin' Up! has partnered with Country Living magazine to offer this exclusive "Cards a la Carte" stationery kit. With 24 sheets of uniquely designed 5-1/2" x 8-1/2" printed paper, this kit has everything you need to create a one-of-a-kind menu or handwritten letter.

* 24 sheets 5-1/2 x 8-1/2 printed paper

* 12 medium Very Vanilla envelopes

* Dinner Party stamp set

* Ballet Blue Classic Stampin' Spot

$26.95

Welcome Baby!

2010-03-19T08:53:00.000-07:00

Isn't this a sweet card? I just love that little giraffe! He comes from the "Wild About You" stamp set and is just one of several cute little animals in that set.

Wishing you the Luck O' The Irish!

2010-03-18T07:44:00.000-07:00

Happy St Patty's Day to you! I know they aren't green, but these mugs of beer could have easily been coloured green in the spirit of the day!

This card was made using the "Cheers to You" stamp set which includes various fun cocktails, martinis, glasses of champagne, and mugs of beer.

Morning Soft

2010-03-11T07:10:00.000-08:00

Yes! Bring on Spring! Here is another Spring-y card using the beautiful "Morning Soft" stamp.

I purposely left the oval (which was punched out with the Large Oval punch, by the way!) blank so the card can be use for any occasion.

Spring is Around the Corner!

2010-03-11T07:02:00.000-08:00

The past week or so there has been absolutely BEAUTIFUL weather outside. Although I don't know whether we can put away our scarves and mitts quite yet, it gives me hope that Spring is just around the corner!

This card makes me think of Spring with its bright cheery flower and the butterflies (or "flutterbies" as Becky calls them!) dancing around.

See! There is that Butterfly punch again...LOVE that punch! We also used that Sizzix Big Shot with the "Flower, Daisies #2 Bigz Die" for the flower.

Peach Within

2010-03-04T09:44:00.000-08:00

Here is another great all-purpose card made from the "Peace Within" stamp set. Don't you just feel like curling up in the chair beside that little kitty with a good book?
We all used the "Top Note" die (one of the Bigz Dies) for the frame. That die is so useful!

Let's Go Extreme!

2010-02-26T11:10:00.000-08:00

Do you sometimes have a hard time coming up with ideas for cards for teen boys (or girls!)? Do you have an extreme sports enthusiast on your list?
The "Extreme" series of stamps are the perfect answer! Each stamp is sold individually with themes such as skateboarding, snowboarding, skiing, guitar playing, dirtbiking and surfing.
There is also a full set of background stamps called "Extreme Elements" that coordinate with these stamps.
The card below was made using the dirtbiking stamp as well as the background stamps.

Beary Best Friends!

2010-02-19T09:26:00.000-08:00

Isn't this little bear cute? She is from one of the limited edition stamps sets, "Beary Best Friends" from the current Occasions Mini Catalogue.
There is also a boy bear who is just as cute, as well as a balloon (shown here), party hat, shopping bag and flower. So sweet!
This stamp set is from the "Build-a-Bear Workshop Collection" and there are coordinating Sizzix dies available as well.
Also, for every purchase of $25 from this collection, you'll receive a coupon for $5 off any purchase at a Build-a-Bear Workshop store!

Looking forward to Spring?

2010-02-19T09:11:00.000-08:00

With the nice sunny weather we've been enjoying over the past couple days, it gives me hope that Spring is just around the corner!
This card reminds me of a nice spring day, with fresh new flowers blooming, and butterflies dancing around....soon, hopefully soon!
This was made with the "Flight of the Butterfly" stamp set and the coordinating Butterfly punch.
The punched-out butterflies were made using the printed window sheets. They were perfect for this!

Looove is in the aaair!!!

2010-02-12T09:37:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple Valentine's Day cards to make for your sweetheart...what says love better than a handmade card!

They also would make great Anniversary cards as well, or even for a birthday.

The background of the first card was made using a regular old pot scrubber (the hard, white plastic kind) to sponge the ink. You never know what you'll find around the house to 'confiscate' for your crafting supplies! :)

Help Make a Difference!

2010-02-01T14:38:00.000-08:00

Yay! It's soon time for the 5th Annual Arkona Stamping and Scrapbooking Day!!!

2010-02-01T14:33:00.001-08:00

Made 2 Last Stamp set...

2010-02-01T14:17:00.000-08:00

Here is a cute birthday card made using the "Made 2 Last" stamp set (please pardon the dust spots on the lens of my camera!). There is a pocket designed to look like the texture of jeans included with this set, but I just used the "Canvas" background stamp and stamped the plain stitched pocket on top.
This card was made for a teen, but it could be used for anyone really, from toddler right on up to a senior!
The sky is the limit for things to put in the pocket as well. I am just imagining a frog or two jumping out of it for a cute card for a little boy. You could even hide a little gift inside the pocket as well...everyone loves cold, hard cash or a great gift card!

Hooked on "Hodgepodge Hardware"!

2010-01-20T14:51:00.000-08:00

Have you tried the "Hodgepodge Hardware" yet? They are metal accents including brads, ribbon slides, and frames/holders, with many of them coordinating with the Stampin Up! punches.
They come in a re-useable tin and contain 200 pieces and are a great way to dress up any card and add a little pizzaz.
This card was made with the "Styled Vanilla", but it is also available in "Styled Silver" as well.

New Punch Style!

2010-01-15T10:54:00.000-08:00

Stampin' Up! has come out with a new punch style! There is a larger cutting surface and slimmer design. They can be stored either laying flat or else on their side to save space.
Click here to see more about it and to see all the shapes available!

"Upsy Daisy" stamp set

2010-01-15T10:49:00.000-08:00

This card was made using the "Upsy Daisy". We also use the "Curly Label Bigz" die with the Big Shot machine to cut out the white frame as well as the plastic overlay. Very nice effect!

"Thoughts & Prayers" Stamp Set

2010-01-15T10:17:00.000-08:00

Here is a nice card you can use for any occassion using the "Thoughts & Prayers" stamp set. Some of us put a sympathy sentiment on it and others used it as a "Thinking of You" card, but I think it would fit any occasion, even a male birthday.
This stamp set is very versatile, with messages of sympathy, thinking of you, and get well soon.

Wow, that was a loooong break....glad to be back!

2010-01-06T11:56:00.000-08:00

Wow! I am so glad to be back after such a loooong break. Hope everyone had a great holiday season and enjoyed spending time with friends and family and Happy New Year to you all!

With a New Year comes lots of great news from Stampin' Up!

Not only is the Annual Occasions Mini catalogue out (click on the image to view the catalogue online)....

...but the 2010 Sale-a-bration Catalogue is out as well! This is an AWESOME way to earn free limited-edition products. This year Stampin' Up! has made Sale-a-bration even better by including some of the regular stamps from the 2009-2010 Idea Book available for free as well. If you look at the back of the Sale-a-bration catalogue, you'll see the list!
(click on the image below to view the catalogue online)

Also, Stampin' Up! has announced that they are now offering repositionable clear-mount rubber stamps. Yay!!! These will be the same high-quality rubber that we are used to from Stampin' Up but will be a great option to save on storage space and to place more than one stamp on a block at a time. Not only that, some of those people who were hesitant to try Stampin' Up because they prefer to use the clear blocks instead of wood blocks will now have that option. Of course, the much-loved wood blocks will still be available for those who prefer that method. (Click on image below more more info)

On dash, on dancer......

2009-12-10T09:42:00.000-08:00

Isn't this little "Dasher" stamp the cutest thing? You can find it at the back of the catalogue in the "Under $12" section. Cute!

It's hard to see here, but we also used the new "Shimmer Paint" to give the card a little shimmer 'n shine!

Thank You Card

2009-11-24T08:45:00.000-08:00

This was made using the "Priceless" stamp set and the elegantly beautiful, foiled paper, from the "Bride" pack (found in the catalogue with the "Specialty" papers).
These cards were made for a bride and groom to use as their thank you cards, but they could be used for any situation.

2009-11-19T21:58:00.000-08:00

Here is another card using the Flight of the Butterfly stamp set and Butterfly punch. The clear butterflies on the outside were made by stamping with Versamark and then apply Heat + Stick powder and then Dazzling Diamonds glitter. It doesn't show up very well here in the photo, but they were really nice and sparkly!

Have you tried out the Butterfly punch yet?

2009-11-11T15:54:00.000-08:00

You can really come up with some cute ideas when you pair up the Butterfly punch with the "Flight of the Butterfly" stamp set!

Of course, you don't have to have the punch and can just cut them out by hand, but the punch sure does make it easier!

Birthday Card for a little boy!

2009-11-02T20:54:00.001-08:00

It seems all little boys love trucks, don't they? Here is a cute card that works great for your little (and even big!) boy on their birthday. It uses the popular "Loads of Love" stamp set as well as the "Canvas" background stamp.

Birthday Card...

2009-11-02T20:34:00.001-08:00

Here a elegant birthday card. I just love the Baroque Motifs stamp set simple, yet that was used for this.

IT'S HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA TIME!!!

2009-11-02T20:03:00.000-08:00

Buy a Gift~Receive a Gift! During Stampin' Up!'s Holiday Extravaganza, receive a free Decor Elements piece (up to a $22.95 value) with a qualifying purchase of $65 from the Gift-Giving Guide.
Click on the image above (Holiday Gift-Giving Guide) for more info!
The link to the Decor Elements catalogue is down the right hand side of this blog to help you pick out your free gift!

Autumn Days!

2009-10-22T00:50:00.000-07:00

Here is a nice autumn card made using the new "Autumn Days" stamp set. We used some of the wheat sprigs to 'fluff' up his tail a little and add some colour.
We used yellow cardstock and then masked off an oval shape, and then sponged on 3 or 4 colours around the outside. When you remove the mask, it makes and instant frame around your image.

Deal of the Week: Library Clips, Designer Brads, and Jumbo Grommets!

2009-10-19T09:57:00.000-07:00

This week's "Deal of the Week" is on some great embellishments. They really add a special touch to your cards and pages, and now you can get them on sale this week! These can all be found on page 179 of the 2010 Idea Book and Catalogue.

Item #114348
Basic Jumbo Grommets $6.49 (reg. $9.50)

Item #109857
Mini Library Clips $12.99 (reg. $18.95)

Item #112571
Circle Designer Brads $5.49 (reg. $8.50)

Item #112581
1/2" Library Clips $5.49 (reg. $9.75)

Give me a call or drop me an email if you would like to order any of these items.

2009-10-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

Here, in this part of Canada, our highschool graduations are held in the fall. That way, the grads who have moved on to college or university can come back and find out how each other is doing. A homecoming of sorts!

In celebration of that, here is a graduation card made using the "Great Grads" stamp set. This is a GREAT set with lots of fun graduation themed stamps in it.