Michelle's Crafting Corner

Quick Video Post

2012-01-23T12:58:00.000-08:00

This is a quick video to help out a forum member.

Paper Dolls Challenge #40

2011-08-07T05:00:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? I've posted three days in a row! I'm on a roll!

This card is for Deena's Paper Dolls Challenge. Her challenge is to make a card using any background stamp. Believe me, there is no shortage of background stamps in my craft room.

Here's what I made. The background stamp is from Stampin' Up. I really like the flourish in the text.

This all started from the black cut-out that was made from the Favor It #4 die. I didn't want to waste it so I stamped a flower from Day Dreamer and heat-embossed it to make it stand out. The pink pearls added a little bit more color.

Paper Dolls Challenge #38

2011-08-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

I'm so behind in our Paper Dolls Challenges, but I'm slowly getting there.

Today's post is for Sara's challenge to make a wedding or anniversary card.

Since I wasn't in need of either kind of card, I decided to make a generic one.

The lighting really makes the embossed sheet music background shiny. The flowers are from Day Dreamer, which is quickly becoming one of my favorite Papertrey Ink sets.

I used "Adore" for the sentiment. This way, it can be used for either a Wedding or Anniversary card.

Hope you decide to play along. Thanks for visiting.

For My Idol-Laurie

2011-08-05T15:16:00.000-07:00

This post is for a very talented forum friend, Laurie Willison. She made it to the Top 10 in this year's Gallery Idols contest. I'm so proud of her. I am a HUGE fan of her work. So many of her cards leave me speechless. I've run out of adjectives to use when leaving comments. If you haven't already visited her blog, you should check it out. Her blog is Soapbox Creations.

Several of the Paper Dolls members put together a blog hop to honor Laurie and let her know just how awesome we think she is. Each person chose one of Laurie's creations to CASE. I couldn't join in on the hop, but there's still time to play along and add my link. I hope you do the same.

It was so hard to decide which card to CASE. Here's the card I chose. I love the color combination of Kraft, Raspberry Fizz, and White.

I CASEd it almost exactly except I used Royal Velvet instead of the Raspberry Fizz. I was lucky enough to have some extra paper flowers laying around. I plan on making a few more in different colors to make a set of cards.

One more thing. Laurie's birthday was in May and I had planned to make and send her a card. But, life got in the way and it took me forever to find some crafting time. I ended up CASEing a card by Vanessa Menhorn that I saw in the latest volume of Card Creations magazine. I used Laurie's favorite color combination: Pure Poppy, Kraft, and Black. I never mailed the card because it was so late.

So, Laurie, this card was meant for you.

Paper Dolls Challenge #37-Patterned Paper

2011-06-23T02:01:00.000-07:00

As a member of the Paper Dolls blog group, I try really hard to participate in as many of our challenges as I can. Being a bit OCD, I prefer to complete each challenge in order.

When Suzanne challenged us to use patterned paper on everything except the card base, I have to admit that I panicked! I love using patterned paper on my cards, but I don't have Suzanne's talent for mixing and matching them.

That challenge was issued 6 weeks ago! After many nights of flipping through my dozens of card magazines and visiting my favorite blogs, I was finally able to put something together.

Here it is.

I used Frutti Tutti, Bitty Box Basics, Bitty Dot Basics, and Sugar Plum. The sentiment is from the Think Big Favorites series. I used a fine marker to add the frame.

Now, I'm ready to tackle the next challenge from Sara: Make a Wedding or Anniversary card.

Make It Monday - Reverse Masking

2011-06-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

I'm so glad I was able to make time to participate in this week's Make It Monday Challenge.

This week, the very talented Erin Lincoln demonstrated the Reverse Masking technique. Click here to watch her video.

I made a single layer card. I die-cut the Mat Stack 5 and used it to mask the middle of my card. I stamped Text Styles II in Smokey Shadow to create the background.

The floral image is from Four of a Kind and the sentiment is from the Think Big Favorites series.

I added some texture with the Canvas impression plate. Here's a better look.

I had this idea in the back of my mind since Monday. I was surprised by how quickly my card came together.

Now go get crafty. I'd love to see what you can make using this technique.

Boy Birthday Card

2011-06-10T02:20:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to use my Boy Basics: Out of this World set since it arrived. My nephew's birthday was the perfect reason to ink it up. He turned 5 years old this year.

The earth image is from Masculine Motifs. I used the Sunshine impression plate for the "solar system". I'm grateful for the coordinating rocket die, but I wish PTI had a die for the fire portion too.

Here's what I did for the inside.

Thanks for looking!

My Card-Display Carousel

2011-06-09T02:20:00.000-07:00

No card today, but I wanted to show you the floor card display that my wonderful husband got for me.

I've been looking for a wire desktop card holder for a while now. I've found several on-line, but the cost of shipping costs as much (sometimes more!) than the cost of the item itself. I refuse to pay that much on shipping.

My husband ended up getting me this one instead.

I put all the cards that I make on it. This way, I can easily select a card that I want to use. I even display my tags on it by clipping it to one of the wires. My kids love it because it's like going to the store and picking out a card for their friends.

Thanks for stopping by.

Pretty Floral Cards

2011-06-08T02:20:00.000-07:00

I've got a couple of cards to show you today. I made these while I was at my Scrapbook Retreat.

I'm a member of Club SEI. I love their monthly kits. They have such amazing collections. I've accumulated a ton of kits. I've been trying to incorporate my kits into my card-making sessions.

The leaf image is from Turning a New Leaf stamp. I love the bling on this card. It really does make me smile.

For this card, I used the Fabulous Florets stamp set from Stampin' Up. I wasn't sure how it was going to turn out since the stamps aren't clear, but I'm pleasantly surprised. I used my angled label die and stamp for the sentiment.

That's it for today!

Small clear tag

2011-06-06T03:10:00.000-07:00

I had a few scraps laying around and ended up making a clear tag. I really like how the background pattern turned out. It's from BB: Geometrics.

Here's where I can write my message on the back. I can turn it into a tag just by punching a hole at the top.

Here it is next to a regular size card so you can get a better idea of the size.

That's it for today. Thanks for visiting!

Summer Fun

2011-06-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of fun summer cards I made using the Sunny Fun stamp set from Stampin' Up.

The images were stamped in black and colored with my Stampin' Up markers. I made the frame using the technique shown by Nichole Heady. You can see it here.

I used my Spica pens to add some sparkle to the "swimming" card, although it's a little hard to see. I kept things very simple and let the images speak for themselves.

Paper Dolls Challenge #36

2011-06-02T14:52:00.000-07:00

Bad, bad blogger! That's what I've been lately. I can't believe my last post was in April! I can give you a whole bunch of reasons why I haven't blogged, but they would just be excuses. But, I'm baaaaack!

I'm trying to catch up with the Paper Dolls Challenges. This card is for Jen's wonderful inspiration challenge. She asked us to create a project using this photo as inspiration.

I pulled the colors and made this simple card. I used the Button Boutique die and stamp to make the coaster buttons. The felt flowers were cut with one of the Beautiful Blooms dies. This was the first time I ever used the Framed stamp. I still need some practice, but I like the look.

Thanks for visiting. The Papertrey Paper Dolls blog still has several open challenges. Hope you find some time to play along.

Missed it again!

2011-04-06T07:00:00.001-07:00

Yes, I missed the Papertrey Ink Blog Hop again. I started my project late and, by the time I finished it, the link was closed. Here it is anyway.

I needed to make something fast so I opted to make another clear notecard. I used to cross-stitch and making french knots was one of my favorite things to do. So, I used french knots as sprinkles on the cupcake. I used the cupcake from Cupcake Collections to make the background. (The card isn't scratched up. That's just the reflection from my flash and light sources. It's not easy photographing clear sheets.)

These notecards are great for kids' birthday tags. Just punch a hole at the top and use some twine or ribbon to attach it to a gift bag.

Here's a close-up of the "sprinkles". I stitched them onto felt. I used the Angled Label die for the sentiment.

(Sorry, I forgot to take pictures of the back. I'll try to do that and post them later.)

Papertrey Paper Dolls #35

2011-04-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

This next project is for Katie's Paper Dolls Challenge. Her challenge this week is to make a project using your scraps. You can cut a piece of cardstock for your base, if necessary, but nothing else.

This was perfect for me because I had these left-over pieces of journaling tags that were part of a kit I had. They've been sitting on my desk for weeks. I couldn't bring myself to throw them away because they were too cute.

No full sheet of cardstock was harmed during the making of this card. :)

I usually make two card bases whenever I have to cut into a full sheet. The blue base was already waiting for me to use it. All the other pieces were scraps that I cut into the necessary sizes. Even the little slip of ribbon on top was a scrap. I rarely throw away ribbon scraps because you can use them in so many different ways. This is one of them.

Here's another card I made using mostly scraps.

This is another piece of the journaling tag. The Scarlet Jewel card base was from my stash of pre-cut bases. I have to admit that the Hawaiian Shores twill ribbon was not from scraps.

I stamped onto the Tim Holtz clear tags with Staz-On ink. I messed up a little, but that's what makes it "hand made".

I hope you find some time to play along with this week's Paper Dolls Challenge.

Papertrey Paper Dolls #34

2011-04-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

This is my submission to C's Paper Dolls Challenge. There's still plenty of time to play along and add your link.

Her challenge is to make a simple "gratitude" card using a background stamp.

Making scenes aren't easy for me, but I actually had a lot of fun making this one. I used stamps from both Beautiful Blooms sets for all the images, even the sun! The sentiment is from Mega Mixed Messages.

It's hard to tell, but I inked the top with Spring Rain ink using a cotton ball. The grass was cut using the grass die from My Favorite Things.

Thanks for taking a look!

Make It Monday #8

2011-04-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

I didn't think I'd be able to make anything for this week's Make It Monday challenge. One, my mojo's been on vacation. And, two, I don't have a blending tool. I decided to try anyway and I'm glad I did.

Since I don't have a blending tool, I used cotton balls instead. They're cheap, easy to use, and I already had some.

I kept it simple. I've always liked the look of silhouettes. The Larger Than Life stamp set was perfect for what I had in mind. I thought about adding some black pearls in the corner somewhere, but my mojo wouldn't answer so I just left well enough alone. I still need to work on my color choices and positioning, but I'm satisfied with it.

More Clear Notecards

2011-03-22T16:05:00.000-07:00

I made a couple of other clear notecards.

I used Friends Til the End for this one.

I love the look of Text Styles. It's so subtle, but adds a hint of sophistication.

Here's the back. Very simple.

Here's a different view. I wanted you to see how the clear card looks against something other than a black backdrop.

I made this card using YOF: Mums.

Pretty much the same layout as the card above.

And....the back.

Another view.

I hope these inspire you to make your own clear notecards.

Clear Note Cards

2011-03-22T15:00:00.001-07:00

Like most crafters, I try to recycle anything and everything I can. I used to keep all the clear acetate sheets that my PTI stamps came on. Eventually, it just got too much and I had to toss them into my recycle bin. I recently started saving them again and accumulated quite a stash. I was about to toss a bunch in the recycle bin again, but became inspired by a card a saw in a Paper Crafts Magazine. The card was by Jessica Witty.

I decided to turn those acetate sheets into notecards. Just simple cards for a quick note.

Here's one of the notecards I made. I used Cotton White Staz-On to stamp the In Bloom flower.

Here's a close-up so you can see the In Bloom impression.

Here's the back. I know it looks like the bottom is smudged and messy, but it's just reflections. It's hard to get a good picture.

I'm so glad to have found a use for these acetate sheets. I love re-using!

Thanks for stopping by!

Clean and Simple's FTL #132

2011-03-21T13:30:00.000-07:00

I've been a long time fan of the Clean and Simple blog. They have some really great sketches. I love going there to gain some inspiration, but I've never actually played along. Today, I decided to give it a try.

Click here to see this week's sketch and samples.

I haven't used my Scattered Showers set in a while so I gave it some love today.

I love how easy it was to make something with the Clean and Simple sketch. I'm definitely going to try that again.

Make It Monday #6

2011-03-20T15:22:00.000-07:00

I missed last week's Make It Monday challenge due to the flu. This week, I was determined not to miss it again.

Here's my card. I used Out on a Limb, one of my go-to stamp sets.

I really like the technique Erin demonstrated with the impression plate. This is something I'm going to do again.

Thanks for stopping by.

Papertrey Paper Dolls Blog Hop

2011-03-09T04:00:00.000-08:00

Hi, everyone! Welcome to our very first

I'm so excited about this event because it gives everyone (including myself) a chance to get to know the 2011 Papertrey Paper Doll members a little better. You also have a chance to win some amazing prizes!

Here's a little bit about myself. I'm Michelle (abzzymom on the PTI forum). I live in Northern California with my husband and four girls (ages 13, 10, 7, and 4). I'm a stay-at-home-mom who just celebrated the 19th anniversary of her 25th birthday last month. :-)

I first heard about Papertrey Ink in July 2009 when I discovered Dawn's blog and fell in love with her Scattered Showers stamp set. I've been a fan ever since. I love the simple timeless images of their stamp sets and their amazing line of dies and products.

My favorite PTI color is Raspberry Fizz. I always find myself pairing Raspberry Fizz with Simply Chartreuse, Hibiscus Burst, Hawaiian Shores, and/or Kraft. The new Royal Velvet is also quickly becoming a favorite. My style is usually clean and simple. I'm working on adding more layers to my projects.

I created my blog in April 2009 and have been a Papertrey Paper Doll since we first started the group in April 2010. I feel very lucky to be a part of such an amazing group of women.

The Blog Hop challenge is to make a project using items that begin with the letters "P", "T", and "I".

Here's my creation. My card was inspired by my all-time favorite PTI Design Team member, Dawn.

For "P", I used Pacific Vineyard patterned paper. The "T" is represented by the Topnotch Twill ribbon.

For "I", I used the In Bloom impression plate...

and Inside and Out: Thank You stamp set.

Hop on over to the Papertrey Paper Dolls blog, join our challenge and add your link for a chance to win. Don't forget to leave a comment at all the Paper Dolls blogs. Here's a list of the Dolls:

Jen (JenCarter)

Lee Anne (Lee Anne)
Laurie W. (Laurie Beth)
Deena (honugurl16)
Leish (leish)
Amy (kolling143)
Suzanne (*suzanne*)
Katie (choc0holic)
Laurie (In My Craft Room)
Cecilia "C" (camvds)
Michelle (abzzymom)
Sara (hiinaz)
Tanna (tfiskers)
Renee (Renee L.)
Kristin (jcmom04)
Christy (christea)

If you're following the list in order, you should head on over to Sara's blog.

Thanks for stopping by! Have fun and good luck!

Papertrey Paper Dolls Challenge #33-His and Hers Baby Cards

2011-03-07T10:33:00.000-08:00

This week is Leish's turn to host a Paper Dolls challenge and it's a fun one! Create two baby-themed cards using the same layout, but make one for a boy and the other for a girl. I love this challenge because I don't have enough baby cards on hand.

Here are my cards.

When I think "baby" cards, I think of buttons, bows and scallops. So, that's what I put into my cards. For my baby girl card, I used Sweet Blush and Lavendar Moon cardstock. I threw in some Harvest Moon embellishments for contrast.

The duck from Night, Night Moon is so cute.

For my baby boy card, I used Spring Rain and Blueberry Sky with some Spring Moss thrown in for some contrast.

Here's a close-up.

Our challenges on the Paper Dolls blog are always open for several months so you have lots of time to play along. Go on over to check out Leish's challenge.

Thanks for stopping by! Come back on March 9 for a chance to win some amazing prizes.

Make It Monday #4 - Playing with Fun Foam

2011-03-05T10:28:00.000-08:00

This week's Make It Monday challenge is to use fun foam on your project.

I had quite a hard time with this one. I think I was trying too hard to find some "out of the box" way to use fun foam. I wasn't sure fun foam and I were friends.

The embellishments I made with fun foam just didn't turn out the way I liked. In the end, I decided to make a tag out of it.

I cut out a tag using Tag Sale #3 and made a couple of interesting discoveries. First, the dots that outline the tag show up very well on fun foam. Second, those dots show up on both sides of the tag! Amazing!

Here's the front of my tag. I kept it simple and also used a piece of vellum that was leftover from a previous MIM challenge.

Here's the back. Those dots showed up automatically.

I think I'll be using fun foam to make more tags. They won't get crumpled up and they're less likely to tear. I guess fun foam and I are friends after all.

Thanks for stopping by!

The Last of My Flower Series

2011-03-04T05:16:00.000-08:00

This is the last card in my series of flower cards.

This card uses Delightful Dahlia and Terracotta Tile.

This card has crystals for the flower centers.

Here's the inside.

Well, that's the last one. I plan on putting these in a nicely decorated clear box (along with this card) and giving it to one of the teachers as a gift.

Thanks for visiting my blog!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Delightful Dahlia, Big Bold Wishes

Paper: Terracotta Tile, Melon Berry

Ink: Terracotta

Embellishments: crystal, Terracotta Tile satin ribbon

2011-03-03T05:10:00.000-08:00

Here's the next card in my series.

This one uses Year of Flowers: Violet and Plum Pudding cardstock.

I used some tiny purple crystals for the centers.

Here's how I finished the inside.

Thanks for stopping by! I have one last card in this series to show you. Come back tomorrow!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: YOF: Violets

Paper: Plum Pudding, Lavendar Moon

Ink: Plum Pudding

Embellishments: Plum Pudding grosgrain ribbon, crystals

Flower Cards

2011-03-02T05:02:00.000-08:00

I've had so much fun using my flower stamps, I ended up making several cards.

This one uses In Bloom and Scarlet Jewel cardstock.

I used a pearl to finish the bow.

I finished the inside with the same stamp set.

Come back tomorrow for another card!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: In Bloom

Paper: Scarlet Jewel, Sweet Blush

Ink: Scarlet Jewel

Embellishments: Scarlet Jewel satin ribbon, pearl button

Lots of Presents

2011-02-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

This card is a CASE of Nichole Heady's card here. I love the bright bold colors.

At first, I randomly stamped the boxes and followed with the ribbon image. It didn't look evenly spaced. What I had to do to make it look balanced was to stamp each box and ribbon one at a time. It was a bit time consuming because I had to clean the stamp after each image, but I really like how it turned out. I'll be making more of these.

Thanks for stopping by!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Make a Wish and Additions, Fillable Frames #6

Paper: Tempting Turquoise (SU)

Ink: Tempting Turquoise (SU), Riding Hood Red (SU), Orange Zest, Kiwi Kiss (SU)

Embellishments: bling

Tools: Fillable Frames #6 die

Make It Monday - Glitter Strips with Scor-Tape

2011-02-22T16:14:00.000-08:00

I'm having a lot of fun playing along with the Make It Monday challenges on Nichole Heady's blog. Click here to see more details.

This week's challenge is to use a glitter strip on your project using scor-tape. Here's what I made:

I put the glitter strips on the egg. I die cut the egg. Used two different widths of scor-tape and trimmed them around the egg. I really like how it turned out.

The glitter sticks to the scor-tape so well, I wondered what would happen if I did the same technique using glue-dots. That's what I did with the butterfly.

Thanks for taking a look!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Fillable Frames #7, Egg Hunt

Paper: Plum Pudding, Simply Chartreuse, Lavendar Moon, Hawaiian Shores, Polka Dot Parade

Ink: Hawaiian Shores, Plum Pudding

Embellishments: pearls, glitter, scor-tape

Tools: Parisian Doily die, Fillable Frames #7 die, Mat Stack #4,Egg Hunt die, XL rickrack die, butterfly punch (Martha Stewart)

Cupcake Cards and Tags

2011-02-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

The birthday parties have started! Thank goodness I have some fun PTI goodies to play with.

I made this ensemble for my nephew's 7th birthday.

I had a lot of fun making the tag. Love the By the Numbers dies.

It was so quick and easy to make this ensemble. Love the large cupcake die.

Here's the inside.

Thanks for stopping by!

Paper Dolls Challenge #32 and Make It Mondays

2011-02-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

Amy has a great challenge on the Paper Dolls blog today. Head on over there and check it out! Her challenge is to create a card using a floral image, embossing, and spring colors.

This also qualifies for the Make It Monday challenge. I love that Papertrey Ink started these. This week's challenge is to have a sentiment on vellum.

Here's what I made.

I embossed the flower with purple powder. After I cut out the vellum and stamped it with the sentiment, I ran it through the Canvas impression plate. I also used the Polka Dot impression plate on the Limitless Layers die-cut.

Thanks for visiting!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: YOF: Morning Glory, Inside & Out: Thank You

Paper: Lavendar Moon, Pretty Pastels, Spring Rain

Ink: Versamark, Tuxedo Black (Memento)

Embellishments: Plum Pudding Polka Dot satin ribbon, pearls

Tools: Double-Ended Banner die, Limitless Layers dies, Martha Stewart punch

Paper Dolls Challenge #31

2011-02-19T13:27:00.000-08:00

Today, I'm playing along with Laurie's Paper Dolls Challenge. Hop on over to our blog and play too! There's plenty of time.

What I love about this challenge is it gets me to use one of my Year of Flowers sets. I have the entire series, but have only inked up a couple of the sets. For my card, I opted for the Year of Flowers: Mums.

I love all the PTI flower images. They are so beautiful and detailed whether they are colored in or left alone. For my card, I just stamped the images on colored cardstock and cut them out. I used my clear Spica pen to add some sparkle to the flower.

It was a cloudy day when I took these pictures, but the sun came out for just a few seconds. Just enough time to take this picture that shows the sparkle. I think someone upstairs liked this card. :-)

Thanks for visiting my blog today. Come on over to the Paper Dolls blog and join our challenges.

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: YOF-Mums, Fillable Frames #11, Mega Mixed Messages

Paper: Sweet Symphony, Dark Chocolate, Fine Linen, Spring Moss

Ink: Rich Cocoa (Memento)

Embellishments: clear Spica pen, bling, Chocolate Chip satin ribbon (SU)

Tools: Fillable Frames #11, Parisian Doily Die

Papertrey Ink's Think BIG Challenge

2011-02-12T14:43:00.000-08:00

I actually made this card last week and recently posted it. But, I thought it would be perfect for the Think Big Challenge.

Here's my card (again):

That's the only mega-size Lavendar Moon button that I found in my stash. The flower was made with the leaf image from Blooming Button Bits.

Thanks for looking!

Make It Mondays - Go To Sentiment Card

2011-02-10T16:25:00.000-08:00

I was finally able to make a card for Papertrey Ink's first Make It Mondays Challenge. You can see all the details of PTI's new challenge series here.

The challenge is to make a card using different sentiments. Here's what I made.

I can't even begin to list all the different stamp sets I used for this card. I just took out all the birthday sets I had and any other stamp set that might contain "birthday" sentiments. I started stamping sentiments in the middle and worked my way outwards. I used the seam binding to anchor the die-cut present. I like that the seam binding is thin enough that you can still see the sentiment through it.

Well, that's it! I'm looking forward to these weekly challenges.

My Favorite PTI Project

2011-02-05T09:50:00.000-08:00

I use Papertrey Ink products for all my projects. So, when PTI asked us to pick the favorite project we made last year, I had a lot to choose from. I have several cards that I can't seem to give away, but my favorite PTI creation has to be this one.

Those bold colors just scream out "look at me". The images from A Day at the Beach are saying "Let's have fun!" I love the look and feel of the different PTI impression plates on the panels. I added a lot of little details to the images. Notice the dimensional glaze on the drinks, the tiny pearls on the flip-flops, the "salt" on the rim of the margarita? I know it's hard to see, but there's even orange flock on the blue flip-flop.

Thanks for taking a look at my favorite PTI project of 2010.

Paper Dolls Challenge #27

2011-01-31T07:30:00.000-08:00

I fell behind on the Paper Dolls challenges at the end of last year. So I thought I'd try to make cards for some of the challenges I missed.

This card is for Amy's Button Bits Challenge. All you have to do is make a project using any of the PTI Button Bits sets. Easy!

This card started from the huge purple button I found in my stash of Lavendar Moon buttons. It was the only one that size and it was beautiful! I stamped the large petal from Blooming Button Bits several times and cut each one out. I put them together to create a large flower and then placed my lovely lavendar button on top.

The bottom looked plain so I used my BB: Diamonds impression plate. I've got to tell you...the Grand Calibur made a deep impression with this plate. I love how it turned out.

That's all for today. Amy's challenge is still open so go over and play along!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Blooming Button Bits, Turning a New Leaf, Friendship Jars

Paper: Simply Chartreuse, Whisper White (SU)

Ink: Simply Chartreuse, Orchid Opulence (SU), Elegant Eggplant (SU)

Embellishments: Plum Pudding saddle stitch ribbon, Lavendar Moon button

Tools: Diamond impression plate

PTI Valentine's Day Swap

2011-01-31T05:00:00.000-08:00

I participated in my first ever swap this month. It was on the Papertrey Ink forum and the theme was, of course, Valentine's Day. Unfortunately, I was in such a hurry to mail my projects, I forgot to take pictures before I packed them in the box. But, I do want to show you what I got from my forum friend, Tammy.

Here's the Valentine's Day ensemble she made for me. I was in such awe! They are so beautiful!

The large box contained Ghirardelli squares. They were yummy! Thanks, Tammy for my wonderful Valentine goodies!

Paper Dolls Challenge #30

2011-01-30T05:00:00.000-08:00

Now that the Paper Dolls Challenges are every two weeks and the links are kept open indefinitely, I have ample time to play along.

Today, I'm participating in Laurie's PPD Challenge. Check out the challenge here. I love that it involves felt. I'm always looking for a reason to use felt on my projects. Laurie's challenge is to use felt with a die.

For my card, I used black felt with the Mat Stack 2 and 5 dies. I decided to use black because of this gorgeous card by Laurie. Isn't it beautiful! It inspired me.

Here's my card. I know it's no where near the caliber of Laurie's card, but I'm okay with it.

My favorite part of this card are the flowers. I used my Sizzix 3-D flower die. It makes two flower sizes. I really love how the flowers turn out. I cut the black felt with the Mat Stack 5 die and then cut out the center with the Mat Stack 2. I stamped an image from the Mat Stack 2 Collection on white cardstock and adhered it to the back of the felt.

Here's a view that shows the felt more.

Thanks for stopping by!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Mat Stack 2 Collection, Delightful Dahlia (sentiment)

Paper: True Black, Raspberry Fizz, Raspberry Fizz Mix, Ripe Avocado

Ink: Tuxedo Black (Memento), Ripe Avocado

Embellishments: True Black silk ribbon, pearls

Tools: Delightful Dahlia leaf die, 3-D flower Sizzix die

My Craft Room

2011-01-29T05:03:00.000-08:00

**Warning: This is a long post with lots of pictures.**

I've been wanting to take pictures of my craft room just to document for the future. It's also a good idea for insurance purposes. But, my room has been cluttered and disorganized since I haven't had time to clean it up.

Now that things have slowed down a little, I found some time to tidy up and also add a few new storage features. So, here's a journey into my sanctuary.

My craft room is a small room that's connected to our Master Bath. In the model home, it was staged as a work-out room. Yeah...right! It used to be my husband's office space, but he graciously let me have it last year. Here's the entrance to my room.

Here's what it looks like once you step up the stairs and walk into my room. (Sorry for the poor lighting. It was a gloomy foggy day.)

Right in front is my cutting table. I keep my die-cutting machines underneath. Here's my Cuttlebug, Big Shot, Grand Caliber, and Dream Kutz. I also keep my Cinch there. Under that shelf are my SEI album kits. I like putting the albums together and giving them as gifts to non-crafters. You can also see my Janome Mini sewing machine. I'm still trying to get the right tension on my stitches.

Right next to my cutting table is storage for all my cutting plates. Underneath are my CDs full of Nestabilities as well as stamps and dies from My Favorite Things, Verve, There She Goes, Clear Dollar Stamps, Hannah Stamps, and a few others. On the left are holders where I keep all my invoices from PTI and other on-line craft stores that I order from.

This is the top of my cutting table. That Clip It Up stand displays some of the cards I made and haven't yet filed away.

Now we get to my area. This is where I sit and try to find my mojo.

To the left of me is a tackle box I bought from Target a long time ago. I use it more to store things that really don't belong anywhere else. My room can get a bit warm during the summer, even with the AC on. My two tiny fans help keep me (and my stamps) cool.

These are my inks. I've got my full PTI and Stampin' Up pads on the tall carousel. The refills are on top. The small set of drawers hold my ink cubes from Memento, PTI, SU, SEI, and Technique Tuesday. The white box to right holds my Versamark inks, glue pad, and Staz-Ons. The back of the box has drawers for my twine and bling.

This is where I keep my ATG guns. It's a faux leather remote control holder. I keep it right in front of me so I can get to them quickly. I also keep my stamp cleaner sprays there. To the left are a variety of pens and markers: Spica, gel, Deco. To the right is my collection of Copic markers.

Here's my Copic collection in its entirety.

There's my white carousel that holds my essentials: scissors, rulers, glue dots, glue, pop dots, and more. To the right of my desk is my cabinet. Notice the kite on the wall?

That's the kite that Dawn McVey made for the PTI booth at the Summer 2010 CHA in Chicago. Nichole Heady had a contest and gave away many of the Design Teams creations. I was lucky enough to win Dawn's kite!

Next, we have my cabinet. On top is my Xyron machine and craft tote for when I go to scrapbooking retreats. Inside my cabinet are my binders. Take note of that dark brown Franklin Planner on the right. I'll mention it again later. To the right of my cabinet are some drawers that contain miscellaneous items: circle cutter, clear plastic bags, blank stationary, old wooden stamps, and a bunch of other things.

Three of the binders hold my templates. I put my PTI templates in alphabetical order. I have most of them. I also have templates from different bloggers and from Splitcoast Stampers.

Besides the assembly instructions, I also print out the template, cut it out, and store it in the binder. I use the template to trace my pattern onto cardstock.

Two of the binders hold my Cuttlebug and Sizzlits dies. I got these page protectors from Staples. They're meant to hold trading cards.

They also hold my Cuttlebug embossing folders.

Two other binders hold my Studio G and other miscellaneous stamps. These are stamps that I bought long before I discovered Papertrey Ink. I loved buying Studio G stamps because they were only $1. At the time, I thought all clear stamps were of the same quality as Studio G stamps. Boy, was I wrong! Once I discovered PTI, I started buying higher quality clear stamps and stopped buying Studio G. Still, I can't seem to part with my collection. The images are so cute! I'm keeping them and letting my children use them whenever they want.

I also keep my PTI patterned paper and Color Couture binder inside.

Remember that dark brown planner? That's where I keep my PTI dies and impression plates.

Here's how I store my PTI border dies. I used my sewing machine to make pockets in my page protector. Don't look too closely. My sewing is horrible! My scallop border dies are on the left side.

I love making all kinds of 3-D projects. So, I have a collection of Sizzix and Bigz dies. The clear boxes hold my brads, snaps, clips, googly eyes, and other trinkets. There's my Big Crop-a-Dile.

On the bottom shelf are my XL dies and boxes of DMC floss. I used to cross-stitch (and still do on occasion). In that plastic bin are my Anya and Ian stamps from The Greeting Farm.

Right behind where I sit are more drawers. They are on casters in case they need to be moved.

On top of my metal storage is where I keep my small scraps of paper. This unit was made to hold photos. Instead, it holds my small scraps of paper. I sort the PTI paper by color. My SU scraps are sorted by color collection.

The drawer underneath holds all my precious PTI buttons. I bought these containers from Michael's. I punched out a scallop circle from coordinating paper and used my label maker to add the names. Here's a close-up of all that colorful goodness.

Below that is the drawer that holds my larger scraps of paper. I separate my PTI paper from my SU paper. For my PTI folders, I punched out a piece of cardstock and adhered it next to the name. This way, I can find the color I want even when I forget the name of it.

Behind this unit is where I keep my PTI cardstock. I reach for them all the time so I need them to be close by.

Below are drawers. The bottom drawer holds my Stampin' Up and Bic markers. The middle drawer has all my SU ribbons. The top drawer holds my die-cuts.

My husband gets a bunch of these plastic boxes at work. He doesn't need them so he gives them to me. I've been making gift card holders out of them, but I have so many. So, I decided they would be great for sorting and holding my extra PTI die cuts.

Under my desk are a couple more sets of drawers. One holds my stash of glue-dots, scor-tapes, Xyron refills, Zots, skittles, and Stickles. The other drawer hold my many many punches: Martha Stewart, Stampin' Up, EK Success, Marvy. That black thing is my old SU stamp cleaner. I removed the pads and put a large piece of Absorber to clean my stamps. That circular piece of wood on the floor is what I use to heat emboss my projects on. It protects my desk. That blue thing next to it is a large piece of fun foam for placing under my cards for stamping.

I also have two roll-away carts. They hold items that I reach for often: label maker, heat embosser, Copic airbrush, baby wipes, Crop-a-Dile, small Xyron, mini trimmer. I keep two garbage cans: one for recyclables and the other for garbage.

So that's it for my desk area. Let's move on to my bookcase. This holds a lot of my empty or pre-made scrapbook albums. On top are old photos that were pre-digital days. I also keep some of my wood-mounted SU stamps here, the ones that I'm more likely to use. I have a ton more in another room. I don't use them anymore and I hope to sell them or give them away some day.

This shelf has my newer clear-mounted SU stamps. That white box holds more stamps by Taylored Expressions, Pink Cat Studio, Martha Stewart and There She Goes. The small drawers contain older pigment and chalk ink cubes for my kids to use as well as miscellaneous SU items. You can also see my corkboards, Prisma watercolor pencils and Prisma colored pencils.

This box contains all my extra CD cases. I bought 200 of them from someone on e-bay. I use them for the Fillable Frames sets, nesties, and calendar projects.

Here's my bin of all the empty clear boxes that my PTI stamps came in. I've got tons! These plastic ice cream cones are from Michael's. At $1 each, I scooped up as many as I could. They will make great party favors for my kids' birthday parties. I thought I'd fill them with candy and a gift card from Coldstone or Baskin-Robbins. That grey file cabinet doesn't contain any crafty things. It holds our personal documents. It's a remnant of when this was our office space.

Next to the bookcase is my PTI storage. I keep all my PTI stamps, ribbons and felt in it.

I had planned to use the top drawer for something else, but it came with a divider. So, that's where I keep my felt, for now.

Here's how I store my ribbon.

You may be wondering how they stay lined up in a row. I used some old Cricut 12x12 mats and hot-glued some hot glue sticks to them. It keeps the spools in place when I open and close the drawer.

Since this stores all my wonderful PTI goodies, I've displayed the beautiful cards that I've received from some talented PTI forum members on top of the unit.

Next is an area for my kids to work at. I wanted there to be a place where they can create. They're allowed to use any of my supplies, EXCEPT my PTI stamps. On that table is my color printer, Cricut Expression, and Prisma markers. The shelves holds my alterables, envelopes, cards, and other tools.

Here are my Cricut Cartridges. I removed most of them from their boxes and stored them in the plastic bins. The ones that are still in the boxes are recent purchases that I haven't gotten to yet.

On to my back wall. Here's my wall of punches.

Below the punches are my Stampin' Up cardstock and patterned papers. Under the shelf in the metal bins are kits and patterned paper pads that I've accumulated.

This tower contains my themed kits and papers. They're labeled: Valentine's Day, Christmas, Cupcake/Birthday, Baby, and Girly. Most of them are from SEI.

Finally, head this way to exit my room.

Well, that's it. Thanks for taking a tour of my craft room.

I'm on a roll!

2011-01-28T06:00:00.000-08:00

Back to back posts! I'm on a roll!

I love the adorable images from the Wonderfully Whimsical set. I've been wanting to make a card with it, but, time has been quite an issue lately.

So, this year, I was determined to do it...and I did! Here's my card.

I stamped the hill image onto patterned paper and cut it out. I colored the images with Copics and Spica pens to give it some shine. The sun image is from A Day At The Beach. I think it turned out cute!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Wonderfully Whimsical, A Day at the Beach

Ink: Memento

Embellishments: Copics and Spica pens

I'm Back!

2011-01-27T13:36:00.000-08:00

October? That's how long it's been since I laste posted? Shame on me!

I apologize for not posting the last 3 months. There were lots of family events going on during that time. But, I'm slowly getting back into the swing of things.

For my first post of 2011, I'm playing along with C's Paper Dolls Challenge. The theme is Simplicity. Here's my card.

This may be my first single-layer PTI card ever! I used the technique of inking the back of the stamp for the color and then stamping the actual image on top. I really like how it turned out.

The one thing I did learn from doing this technique is to make sure the stamp you use looks fairly close to the image when you flit it. In other words, it should be almost symmetrical if cut in half.

Thanks for visiting!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Green Thumb, Faux Ribbon

Ink: Memento

Paper Dolls Challenge #23

2010-10-13T22:28:00.000-07:00

Quick post today. This is my submission to Bonnie's challenge over at the Papertrey Paper Dolls blog. We were supposed to create a card using black and white patterned paper along with some fall colors.

I only have a few pieces of black and white patterned paper and they weren't quite what I was looking for. So, I opted for a piece that was more dark brown and vanilla.

The Leaf Prints die and stamp set is an awesome combination. Together, they make very realistic looking leaves. Here's a close-up of the leaves. I wanted you to be able to see the leaf veins. The leaves turned out gorgeous.

Thanks for visiting!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Leaf Prints, Fillable Frames #8

Paper: Vintage Cream, Scarlet Jewel, Terracotta Tile, Ripe Avocado, Dark Brown, Windsor: Farleigh (SEI)

Ink: Scarlet Jewel, Terracotta Tile, Ripe Avocado, Rich Cocoa (Memento), Early Espresso (SU)

Embellishments: Scarlet Jewel button, Terracotta Tile button, Dark Brown button, Ripe Avocado grosgrain ribbon, Summer Sunrise twill ribbon

Tools: Leaf Prints die, Fillable Frames #8 die

Paper Dolls Challenge #22

2010-09-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

I'm so glad to be catching up with the Paper Dolls Challenges. They have some fun challenges every week. I'm not just saying that because I'm part of the group, either! (Hee hee!)

This week, it's Amy's turn to host. Her challenge is to create a CAS card with lots of white and a pop of color. Sounds like fun, right!

After all the wonderful Christmas-themed sets that were released at Papertrey Ink this month, I was in the mood to make a Christmas card.

This card was so easy to make. I just stamped my holly sentiment, impressed the button half of the card, added the green border, and then placed all the embellishments. One of the quickest cards I ever made!

Love those Pure Poppy buttons and twine!

Do you notice the score lines I added to the green border? I first saw that done by Nichole Heady and thought it was such a simple idea but really added to a card. I like the added impression on the bottom, but I should have used a polka dot one to match the holly. Oh, well. Next time.

I have one question for you before you go. Anyone have a simpler method of tying a bow with twine? My stubby little fingers nearly started cramping during my attempts to tie the bow and it still didn't turn our well.

Well, thanks for visiting! Please stop by the Paper Dolls blog and play along with us!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Holiday Button Bits

Paper: SS White, New Leaf

Ink: Wild Wasabi (SU), Riding Hood Red (SU)

Embellishments: Pure Poppy buttons, Pure Poppy twine

Tools: Scor-Buddy

Paper Dolls Challenge #21

2010-09-18T07:08:00.000-07:00

C is hosting this challenge for the Paper Dolls. She wants us to create a card using Fall as our inspiration.

This card was so easy to make thanks to the wonderful products from Papertrey Ink. I die cut Mat Stack 4 from Summer Sunrise and cut it in half. After stamping the leaves on the white panel, I placed a half of the Mat Stack on each end and covered the seam with twill ribbon. I also impressed the card with my Woodgrain Impression Plate.

Here's a picture of the die-cut leaves. I love the way they look like they just fell off the tree.

If you have a chance, stop by the Paper Dolls and play along!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Leaf Prints, Embellishments (sentiment)

Paper: Terracotta Tile, Summer Sunrise, SS White

Ink: Terracotta Tile, Simply Chartreuse, Summer Sunrise, Orange Zest, Rich Cocoa (Memento)

Embellishments: Terracotta Tile twill ribbon

Tools: Woodgrain IP, Mat Stack 4 die, Leaf Prints die

Paper Dolls Challenge #20

2010-09-17T20:25:00.000-07:00

Quick post today. Here's my card for Laurie's Paper Dolls Challenge. Her challenge is for us to make a project using a "school time" theme.

With four kids, I can always use a card for a teacher. This is what I made.

I made the owl with the owl punch from Stampin' Up. I also tried Dawn McVey's idea of stamping the ruler image from It's Official onto Summer Sunrise ribbon. If you want to give this a try, use Staz On ink. When I tried dye and pigment inks, they bled.

I impressed the black panel and the yellow scallop rectangle with the Book Print plate. I distressed the black panel with my fingernails. To stamp "I Love School", I only inked the first words on the background stamp.

One of the reasons I bought the Pocket die is to be able to put little notes in it. In this case, my daughter can write a short note for her teacher on it.

Well, that's it for now. Thanks for stopping by!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: School Time, It's Official

Paper: True Black, Pure Poppy, Harvest Gold, SS White, Dark Chocolate (owl), Terracotta Tile (owl's nose)

Ink: Riding Hood Red (SU), Tuxedo Black (Memento), Black Staz-On

Embellishments: Summer Sunrise grosgrain ribbon, googly eyes

Tools: Book Print IP, Pocket die, scallop circle punch (EK Success), scallop rectangle (Nesties), owl punch (SU)

Paper Dolls #18

2010-08-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

This week's Paper Dolls Challenge is by Anika and it's a fun one! Stop by the Paper Dolls blog and play along!

Her challenge was to find inspiration from a food wrapper or container. I jumped at the chance to get near some candy! I saw a packet of Skittles at the grocery store and it was calling my name so I brought it home.

Here's my card and the goodie that inspired it.

This card was so much fun to make! I really love the bold vibrant colors. And, since Halloween is just around the corner, I'm really loving orange lately. I used A LOT of circles in this card, but, hopefully, I was able to balance it.

In case you were wondering, yes, my kids and I ate all the Skittles as soon as I was done taking pictures. They were delicious! Thanks for visiting my blog!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Dot Spot, Around & About Sentiments

Paper: Orange Zest, Simply Chartreuse, SS White

Ink: Orange Zest, Hawaiian Shores, Tuxedo Black (Memento), Riding Hood Red (SU), Daffodil Delight (SU), Orchid Opulence (SU), Leaf (Technique Tuesday)

Embellishments: Orange Zest button, Orange Zest Bitty Dot satin ribbon

Tools: Sunshine impression plate, Labels 8 (Nesties), 1-1/4" circle punch (SU), 1-3/8" circle punch (SU)

Paper Dolls Challenge #17

2010-08-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

Lisa V. challenged us to create a project using a card made by one of my all-time favorite designers, Dawn McVey, as inspiration. You can check out Lisa's challenge here. Please also stop by Dawn's blog and take a look at all her wonderful creations.

I decided to CASE Dawn's layout. I love how simple her layouts are. It's so easy to change one or two elements on her card and make something totally new. This card is for a wonderful teacher at my daughter's elementary school.

The first time I ever saw cork board used on a project that I liked was here on Dawn's blog. It inspired me enough to get some. I ordered mine from Stampin' Up.

I also love the Spiral Notebook die from Papertrey Ink. I cut it down so that it would fit within my cork board shape. Then, I used one of the images from MSS: Library Ledger to make it look like a mini binder paper. The green brad makes it look like it's tacked onto the cork board. I really like how it turned out.

Here's how I finished the inside. I thought it would be fun to make it look like the Kindergarten writing paper. I used the apple image to connect the inside to the front.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: School Time, MSS: Library Ledger

Paper: Pure Poppy, Hawaiian Shores, Beautiful Blooms, SS White

Ink: Riding Hood Red (SU), Tuxedo Black (Memento)

Embellishments: cork board sheet (SU), Riding Hood Red striped grosgrain ribbon (SU)

Tools: Mat Stack 3, Medium Scallop border die, Spiral Notebook Page die

Paper Dolls Challenge #16

2010-08-22T22:57:00.000-07:00

This card is for Lee Anne's Paper Dolls Challenge. She challenged us to create a card using a sketch from the Go-To Sketches special issue.

I have a hard time making circular cards so this was a difficult challenge for me. I cut out the circular card base by using the largest circle Nestie that I had. Here's my card.

I didn't do such a great job coloring the flowers with my Copics, but I did my best and I'm still learning. I inked the edges of the card with Fresh Snow to give it a soft look. Hope you like it!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Year of Flowers: Larkspurs

Paper: Berry Sorbet, SS White

Ink: Berry Sorbet, Fresh Snow, Tuxedo Black (Memento), Copics

Embellishments: bling

Tools: circle Nesties

Paper Dolls Challenge #15 and Clean & Simple FTL-102

2010-08-12T10:49:00.000-07:00

Can you believe this is my second post for the day! I never do that! Well, I'm determined not to miss another Paper Dolls Challenge. They are just way too much fun and they provide so much inspiration.

This card is for Bonnie Rose's challenge. She gave us an inspiration picture to use. Here's the picture of a lovely summer scarf. Isn't it beautiful?

I decided to use a layout from the Clean and Simple blog. If you've never visited their blog before, you should get over there right away. You'll end up adding them to your Favorites like I did!

Here's their sketch for this week.

Here's my card. I used my new CHA stamp set, Four of a Kind. I'm so glad I was able to find someone who was willing to sell me their extra set. I absolutely love this set!

Here's a close-up of the images. Love the bling on the butterflies!

Well, that's it for today! Thanks for looking!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Four of a Kind, Big & Bold Wishes (sentiment)

Paper: Orange Zest, Hawaiian Shores, Raspberry Fizz

Ink: Orange Zest, Hawaiian Shores, Melon Mambo (SU), Ripe Avocado

Embellishments: bling

Tools: 1-3/8" circle punch (SU), 1-1/2" scallop circle punch (Marvy), Embosslits Beautiful Wings die (SU)

Paper Dolls Challenge #14

2010-08-12T10:28:00.000-07:00

Awww...I'm bummed. I thought I had more time to link to C's Paper Dolls Challege, but it looks like time ran out.

Oh well, at least I was able to complete the challenge. C asked us to make a project using 1) a color we don't usually use and, 2) a technique we haven't used in a while.

Since the weather has been so hot and sunny the past couple of months, I've been tending towards the bright bold colors lately. So, for my project, I decided to use Scarlet Jewel as my focal color since I haven't used that in quite a while. For my technique, I chose embossing. Yes, I've been using embossing on many of my cards, but, this time, I thought I'd try embossing on ribbon. Here's my card.

I found one of the new EK Success large edger punches at Michael's. It looks like a larger version of Fiskar's Threading Water punch. I really like how it looks!

I stamped the rose and leaves with Versamark ink and then used white embossing powder. It really brings out the image. Isn't that rose gorgeous!

Here's a side view of the embossed ribbon. I first attempted to emboss the front of the satin ribbon. I ended up getting some of the powder in the ribbon grain. I turned it over and embossed the back of the ribbon. I actually liked the end result better. The ribbon gives the card a bit of a vintage feel because it's not flush with the card.

Here's the inside. Just a simple rosebud and matching border.

Thanks for visiting! Although this Paper Dolls Challenge is closed, there's still other challenges on our blog that you can do. Come visit us!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: YOF-Roses, Friends til the End (sentiment)

Paper: Scarlet Jewel, Ripe Avocado, Kraft, Holiday Cheer

Ink: Versamark

Embellishments: Scarlet Jewel satin ribbon, Old Olive satin ribbon (SU)

Tools: white embossing powder, large border punch (EK Success), Threading Water border punch (Fiskars)

Papertrey Paper Dolls Challenge #13

2010-08-05T22:55:00.000-07:00

This is a very quick post. I haven't missed a Paper Dolls Challenge yet and I'm not going to miss this one. For this challenge, Leish asked us to look in our closet for inspiration. My clothes aren't very inspiring. My wardrobe consists mainly of solid-colored items.

However, I've always loved the bright colors and pretty images on my youngest daughter's outfits. So, I raided her closet and chose this dress.

Here's the card I came up with.

Here's a close-up of the crinkled "ribbon" and the Giga Guidelines background.

Whew! Just made the link tool! Thanks for stopping by and taking a look.

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Life, Friendship Jars

Paper: Simply Chartreuse, Raspberry Fizz, Hibiscus Burst, SS White

Ink: Simply Chartreuse, Hibiscus Burst, Summer Sunrise, Raspberry Fizz

Embellishments: Simply Chartreuse button, half pearl

Tools: Giga Guidelines impression plate, Friendship Jars labe die, Eyelet Lace die, crimper

Papertrey Paper Dolls Challenge #12

2010-07-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

Quick post today. This card is for Lisa's Paper Dolls Challenge. Check it out here. There's still plenty of time to play along.

Lisa inspired us to create a project using an adorable ceramic plate that her daughter made. Here's the picture.

And, here's the card it inspired. I was really drawn to the red flower in the middle of the plate as well as the shape. I also opted to keep the color scheme.

Instead of meticulously cutting out the flower, it was stamped inside a scallop circle. I got the idea from my fellow Doll, Jen. Click here to see the card she made. It is such a clever idea I just had to use it! I made this card pretty quickly so I'm not fully satisfied with it. But, it is what it is.

Thanks for stopping by!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: All About You, Fillable Frames #5

Paper: Aqua Mist, Dotty Biscotti, SS White

Ink: New Leaf, Riding Hood Red (SU), Crushed Curry (SU)

Embellishments: Pure Poppy Swiss Dot satin ribbon

Tools: scallop circle nestie, Fillable Frames #5 die, Sunshine impression plate

Papertrey Paper Dolls Challenge #11

2010-07-16T15:43:00.000-07:00

I'm slowly getting caught up with the Paper Dolls Challenges. I'm still really busy, but I try to create during any spare moment I can find.

This card is for Anika's challenge. Check it out here and play along!

Anika challenged us to create a non-standard card. This is really out of my comfort zone because almost all my cards are 4-1/4 x 5-1/2. It's the envelope size I have the most of! Hee hee!

When I started this challenge, I knew exactly how I wanted the layout to be. I also knew that I wanted to use Summer Sun. And, since I hadn't inked up my Take Three: Summer yet, I wanted to use that too. So, this is what I ended up with. The card size is 3-1/2 x 8.

The images were embossed using amethyst powder. In the picture, it doesn't look too bad. But, in real life, it's too much yellow for my taste. Still, somebody might like it. Maybe an L.A. Lakers fan! Here's the inside.

I wasn't all that happy with my card, so I made another using colors that I am more comfortable with: Ripe Avocado and Dark Chocolate. This picture doesn't do it justice.

Here's the finished inside.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog!

Summer Sun Card

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Take Three: Summer, Fancy Flourish, Mega Mixed Messages, Border & Corners: Oval, Inside & Out: Thank You

Paper: Summer Sun, Plum Pudding, 2008 Bitty Box Basics

Ink: Plum Pudding, Versamark

Embellishments: amethyst embossing powder, Plum Pudding grosgrain ribbon, bling

Tools: scallop oval punch (Marvy), 1-1/4" square punch (SU)

Ripe Avocado Card

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Take Three: Spring, Mega Mixed Messages, Inside & Out: Thank You

Paper: Ripe Avocado, Dark Chocolate, Turning a New Leaf

Ink: Chocolate Chip (SU), Fresh Snow, Versamark, Copic markers

Embellishments: skittles

Tool: scallop square punch (SU), Cuttlebug label die

Dimensions:

Base: 8 x 3-1/2

Patterned Paper: 7-1/2 x 3

Mat: 7-3/4 x 3-1/4

Squares: 1-1/4

Strip: 6-1/4 x 1

Papertrey Paper Dolls Challenge #10

2010-07-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

I'm just making it under the wire for Amy's Paper Dolls Challenge. Come visit the Paper Dolls blog and play along with us. There's still time!

Here's Amy's sketch. I love it because it's very "Dawn-esque".

I usually make cards exactly as the sketch. This time, I thought I'd rotate it to the side. I recently aquired the Floral Fusion set from last year's CHA and I'm so excited about it. I had to ink it up right away! I also wanted to try a new ribbon technique I've been thinking about.

I like how the ribbon technique turned out, but I had a hard time figuring out how to finish it and hide the ends. I decided to just hide the mess behind some buttons. Notice the In Bloom impression on the Simply Chartreuse? Love that impression plate!

Here's a sideview of the ribbon.

And the finished inside, of course.

Whew! So glad I was able to get my card posted before the link closes. Thanks for stopping by!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Floral Fusion, Mega Mixed Messages

Paper: Berry Sorbet, Simply Chartreuse, Pretty Pastels

Ink: Berry Sorbet, Simply Chartreuse, Chocolate Chip (SU)

Embellishments: Berry Sorbet satin ribbon, Berry Sorbet button, Simply Chartreuse button, twine

Tools: large scallop die, In Bloom impression plate, tag punch (Marvy)

Papertrey June Blog Hop Challenge

2010-06-25T14:00:00.000-07:00

Time for the Papertrey June Blog Hop!

I missed the last two blog hops. I'm so glad I'm able to participate this month.

This month's blog challenge is about color combinations. You can read all about the details of this month's blog challenge on Nichole Heady's blog here.

Now, when I first read the challenge, I thought it was just about using different colors. Actually, it's about using your favorite color combination. Well, that's not what I was thinking when I made my card. Here are the colors that I used:

Being that the temperatures here in Sacramento are reaching the 90's, I thought it appropriate to create a summer-themed card. Here's the card I made.

Since the layout is so simple, I added a lot of texture and details to make the card special. I used a different impression plate for each of the strips. Here's a close-up.

I added glossy accents to the two drinks to give it some dimension. For the blue flip-flop, I stamped the flower image and covered it with some flock.

For the orange margarita, I used glossy accents and sprinkled glitter on it to resemble a salted rim. Notice the tiny pearls on the red flip-flops?

The images are all from the A Day at the Beach stamp set. I was inspired to use this set because of Katie's Paper Dolls Challenge to use one of our older PTI sets. It was so much fun to assemble the different images.

Thanks for stopping by. Enjoy the rest of this month's Papertrey Blog Hop!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: A Day at the Beach, Take Three: Summer (flowers on blue flip-flops), For the Graduate

Paper: Hawaiian Shores, Raspberry Fizz, New Leaf, Orange Zest, Pure Poppy, SS White, True Black

Ink: Hawaiian Shores, Raspberry Fizz, New Leaf, Orange Zest, Riding Hood Red (SU), Close to Cocoa (SU), Basic Black (SU)

Embellishments: glossy accents, glitter, flock (Studio G)

Tools: impression plates-Giga Guidelines 1, Polka Dot Basics II, Tin Types, Argyle, Sunshine

Dimensions

Base: 4-1/4x5-1/2

Strips: 1x4

Image: 4x2

Black Mat: 4-1/8x2-1/8

Paper Dolls Challenge #9

2010-06-23T06:04:00.000-07:00

Whew! I'm so glad I was able to catch up with the Paper Dolls Challenges. I love being a part of this group. The women are so talented and supportive. I don't have many friends who like to craft like I do so it's great having on-line friends like the ones in our group. Because they're so supportive of me, I really want to return the favor by participating in their challenges and checking out their blogs.

This week's challenge is by Katie. Her challenge is to use one of our older Papertrey Ink stamps to create a project. I love this idea because it's so easy to neglect our older sets, especially when PTI comes out with so many amazing new ones every month. There's still lots of time to play along with us so stop by the Paper Dolls blog and check out Katie's new challenge!

For this challenge, I pulled out my Spiral Bouquet stamp set. Although this set was first introduced in November 2007, I only bought it early this year. I also used Text Style for the bottom of the card. I didn't add a sentiment for the front so that I would be able to use this card for any occasion.

What I really like about this set is being able to layer the flowers. I stamped the solid image in Hibiscus Burst and then stamped the lined portion in Raspberry Fizz. The tiny flowers is a stamp from Out on a Limb, one of my go-to sets.

Here's how I finished the inside.

I wanted to show you the back. I accidentally mis-folded my card which left a seam on the back. Instead of making a new card, I just covered it up with a scrap of cardstock. It ended up looking pretty cute. Also, I always stamp the back of my cards with one of the Trademark stamps from PTI.

Thanks for taking a look! I'd love to see what you can make for this week's challenge.

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Spiral Bouquet, Text Style, Trademarks, Out on a Limb Rev.

Paper: Raspberry Fizz, Hibiscus Burst, Ripe Avocado

Ink: Raspberry Fizz, Hibiscus Burst, Ripe Avocado

Embellishments:

Tools: small scallop die

Paper Dolls Challenge #8

2010-06-22T17:53:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been hard finding time to create now that the kids are out of school. I've also had a hard time locating my mojo lately.

Lee Anne posted last week's Paper Dolls Challenge. It's an awesome color challenge. There's still time to play with us. Check out her challenge here.

I really like the colors that Lee Anne chose for her color challenge. I knew when I first saw the challenge that I wanted to make my own pattern using Guide Lines and Guide Lines paper. After I made it, I wasn't sure what to do with it so I left it alone for a few days. This morning, I realized that I didn't have much time left to link my project so I cracked the whip and made my card. Here's what I finally made. (Sorry for the blurry picture. I was in a hurry.)

I've been wanting to try some of the really cool ribbon techniques that I've seen. I saw this awesome card by Heather and I had to give her ribbon technique a try. It wasn't easy at first, but then I finally got it going and I really love how it turned out. I'm definitely going to try this again.

Here's a close-up of my main image. I colored the clear bling with a brown permanent marker. Can you see the patterned paper I made for the background?

Here's the inside of my card.

Thanks for visiting my blog. I really appreciate your stopping by.

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Beautiful Blooms II, Turning a New Leaf, Guide Lines, Heartfelt Basics

Paper: Dark Chocolate, Ripe Avocado, SS White, Guide Lines Grid Sheet

Ink: Ripe Avocado, Hawaiian Shores, Chocolate Chip (SU)

Embellishments: Hawaiian Shores Gingham ribbon, buttons in Dark Chocolate, Ripe Avocado, Hawaiian Shores, bling

Tools: Beautiful Blooms dies, corner punch

Mini Baby Cards

2010-06-10T06:21:00.000-07:00

I was just playing around with the Baby Button Bits set and decided to make a set of mini cards.

This toy snail image is adorable! I love the curlycue on the top of his head.

Here's one with the cute teddy bear. Although the ribbon looks crooked in the picture, it's actually straight on the card.

And here's one with the versatile flower image. I've seen cards where the middle of the flower has been colored or paper-pieced. It's great for making a background with, too!

Well, that's it for today. Thanks for stopping by!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Baby Button Bits

Paper: Vintage Cream, Berry Sorbet, 2008 Bitty Dots Basics

Ink: Fresh Snow, Tuxedo Black (Memento)

Embellishments: white and berry sorbet buttons, ribbon

If you like flowers...

2010-06-07T07:18:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the gorgeous felt flowers that Betsy Veldman made? Check it out on her blog here. She is so talented! I tried making the felt flowers and they turned out soooo cute!

Before Betsy's post came out, I'd seen several other posts that had these beautiful paper flowers on them. Turns out the flowers were made using a new Sizzix 3-D flower die. I loved them so much I ordered one from Stampingscrapping. It arrived on Friday. Of course, as soon as I saw Betsy's post, I had to give my new die a try using PTI's wonderful felt.

Here's a quick card I put together just to showcase the felt flower.

Isn't the flower gorgeous! I melt every time I look at it. The die makes two different size flowers. This is the smaller flower. It's cut so that you don't need to sew the bottom. I just used a glue dot to secure the bud. The leaves were cut with the Delightful Dahlia leaf die.

Of course, I had to finish the inside.

The swirly image is from Faux Ribbon. The tiny flower is from Out on a Limb.

Thanks for stopping by! Stay tuned for more cards using this flower die. I still have the large flower to use on a card.

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Giga Guidelines, Faux Ribbon, Out on a Limb

Paper: Melon Mambo (SU), Kiwi Kiss (SU), Crushed Curry (SU), Razzleberry Lemonade DSP (SU)

Ink: Melon Mambo (SU), Kiwi Kiss (SU)

Embellishments: Raspberry Fizz felt, Simply Chartreuse felt

Tools: cornice border punch (MS), Delightful Dahlia leaf die, 3-D Flower die (Sizzix), Big Shot

Measurements

Melon Mambo base: 3-3/4 square

Crushed Curry mat: 3-5/8 square

Razzleberry Lemonade DSP: 3-1/2 square

sentiment: 3-3/4 x 1

border: 3-3/4 long

Paper Dolls Challenge #7

2010-06-06T13:17:00.000-07:00

It's Laurie Beth's turn to host this week's Papertrey Paper Dolls Challenge and it's a fun one! Check it out here.

Laurie Beth's challenge is right up my alley! There are two parts to the challenge: create your own patterned paper and keep the card clean and simple. These are two things that I love to do.

I got the inspiration for my card from Debbie Olson's post here. I really liked the simple layout.

I've been wanting to try Nichole's tip of using the scor-tape with glitter. I'm so glad I did. This is one technique I'll be using often. It looks even more elegant in person. I hate it when glitter rubs off so easily. That's not the case with this technique.

Here's how I finished the inside. Clean and simple.

Thanks for stopping by! Hope you take the time to visit our Paperdolls blog and participate in Laurie Beth's awesome challenge.

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Damask Designs, For the Graduate

Paper: Raspberry Fizz, SS White

Ink: Raspberry Fizz, Melon Mambo (SU)

Embellishments: glitter, 1/4" scor-tape, white brad

Tools: scalloped scallop edge punch (EK Success)

Measurements

white base: 3-1/2 x 5

Raspberry Fizz mat: 3-1/4 x 4-3/4

stamped pattern paper: 3-1/8 x 4-5/8

sentiment: 3-1/2 x 1-1/2

borders: 3-1/2 long

Pretty Daffodil

2010-06-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

Today's card was made with the Year of Flowers: Daffodils set. The images in this set are gorgeous! I used my Copic markers to color in the main flower image. It was easy to color. I just have to make sure I don't over-do it.

I really like this color combination of Summer Sun and Spring Moss. The colors are very springy. I stamped the scallop border with BB: Text Style II.

Here's how I finished the inside of the card.

Thanks for stopping by!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Year of Flowers: Daffodil, Background Basics: Text Style II

Paper: Summer Sun, Spring Moss, SS White

Ink: Tuxedo Black (Memento), Copic Markers

Embellishments: Spring Moss Top Notch Twill, button

Tools: medium scallop border die

Single Panel Gift Card Holder

2010-05-31T06:30:00.000-07:00

This is my second card for Deena's Paper Dolls Challenge.

My cousin is getting married this summer and they had a "couples" party instead of a bridal shower this weekend. That way, it's a family event rather than just the girls. (The "women only" party will be in a couple of weeks. Woo hoo!) Sorry, I digress.

We decided to give the happy couple a monetary gift. My cousin appreciates the cards I make. Sometimes I feel that she expects any cards she gets from me to be handmade. That's just fine by me because I like making them for her.

Here's what I made. I used the same techniques for this card as I used for the card in the post below.

I couldn't find any more matching buttons, so I improvised. I stamped each letter and cut them out with a circle punch. I used round epoxy stickers to give it depth. I also chose a more subdued color scheme.

The sentiment is from Enjoy the Ride. I positioned it so that it shows when the tag is in place. I wrote our message below it.

I made a pocket on the back by cutting another scallop rectangle and cutting it in half. Then, I used scor-tape to adhere it to the tag.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my blog.

(I'm going to try something different on my blog. I'm the kind of the crafter that needs precise measurements. So, I'm going to start listing the measurements for each card at the end of my posts. This way, I can easily re-create my card. Plus, it may be helpful for anyone who would like to make it themselves. We'll see how long I can keep this up!)

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Enjoy the Ride, BB: Hearts, Alphabet Set (Martha Stewart)

Paper: Ripe Avocado, Enchanted Evening, Scarlet Jewel, Terracotta Tile, Summer Sun, SS White

Ink: Ripe Avocado, Enchanted Evening, Scarlet Jewel, Terracotta Tile, Fresh Snow

Embellishments: Scarlet Jewel Swiss Dots Satin Ribbon, Button, epoxy stickers

Tools: circle punches, scallop rectangle nestie, corner punch

Measurements

White Base: 3-1/2 x 5

Pocket: 3-3/4 x 6, score 1/4 on long sides, cut out extra pieces, fold

Finished Pocket should be 3-1/4 x 3

stamped strips: 3-1/4 x 3/4

plain strips: 1-1/4 x 3/4, 1-3/4 x 3/4, 2-1/4 x 3/4, 2-3/4 x 3/4

white cardstock: 2-1/2 x 2-1/2

Paper Dolls Challenge #6

2010-05-30T08:05:00.000-07:00

This week is Deena's turn to host the Paper Dolls Challenge. She's chosen a fun sketch for everyone to try. Hop on over to the Paper Dolls blog and check it out.

My nephew is really excited about graduating from Kindergarten. He's very smart and I'm so proud of him. I made this card for him (love you, Mero!). I haven't decided what kind of gift card I'll be giving him, so I'm using a Toys R Us rewards card for my picture.

It's a one panel card. It's just the front. I made the pull-out so that one side will hold the gift card and the back is for your sentiment or message.

I really like the ovals from the new Background Basics: Geometrics stamp set. They're like polka dots, but with a twist. It wasn't easy finding four of the same buttons in the size that I needed. I rounded the ends of the top strips with a 1" circle punch. The buttons are threaded with DMC floss. I just started a list of the DMC floss that matches the PTI colors. These match pretty well, don't you think?

I'll be posting another card tomorrow using the same sketch. Go on over to the Paper Dolls blog and give Deena's challenge a try. It's a fun and practical sketch. You can never have enough gift card holders!

Thanks for stopping by!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: BB-Geometrics, Mega Mixed Messages

Paper: Pure Poppy, New Leaf, Hawaiian Shores, Summer Sun, Orange Zest, SS White

Ink: Fresh Snow, Tuxedo Black (Memento)

Embellishments: white buttons, Swiss Dot Satin Ribbon in Pure Poppy, DMC Floss

Tools: circle punch (SU), Labels 8 Nesties,

Casing Lisa

2010-05-27T08:12:00.000-07:00

Quick post today. I just wanted to give a shout out to Lisa Johnson for all her fabulous projects. I had to case this card that she made. It took my breath away when I first saw it. I totally cased it. It's going to be the gift card for my niece's baptism.

The pearls really made this card look so elegant.

Thanks for visiting today!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Asian Fusion

Paper: Sweet Blush, Kraft, Vellum

Ink: Sweet Blush, Rich Cocoa (Memento)

Embellishments: ribbon, pearls

Tools: scallop punch (SU), polka dots impression plate

Check out the Papertrey Paper Dolls

2010-05-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hi, everyone! It's my turn to host this week's challenge on the Papertrey Paper Dolls blog. Come on over here and play along with the Dolls!

PPD Challenge #4

2010-05-19T13:02:00.000-07:00

This week, Jen challenged us to make a masculine and a feminine card using the same stamps. Hop on over to the Paper Dolls blog for the details and to see her samples.

Picking a stamp set that could be used for both masculine and feminine cards was no easy task for me. I eventually chose to work with the Wise Owl set.

Here is my feminine card. I got the idea to paper-piece my owl from the ever talented Nichole Heady. You can see her original post here.

Here's a close-up of my owl. I used black skittles for the eyes.

I kept the inside sweet and simple. It was easy since this stamp set came with an adorable matching mini owl.

Here's the masculine card. For those of you within my age group, doesn't the rick rack design kind of remind you of Jughead's hat? You know, the guy from the Archie comics? If you don't know what I mean, be grateful! lol!

Here's a close-up...

...and the inside.

Thanks for visiting! Make sure to stop by the Paper Dolls blog tomorrow because it will be my turn to host a challenge.

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Wise Owl

Paper for Feminine card: Kraft, Stampers Select White, Raspberry Fizz, Hibiscus Burst, Spring Moss, Summer Sunrise, Dotty Biscotti, Orange Zest (for the nose)

Paper for Masculine card: Kraft, Vintage Cream, Terracotta Tile, Orange Zest, Chocolate Chip (SU), Dotty Biscotti

Ink for Feminine Card: Tuxedo Black (Memento), Raspberry Fizz, Summer Sunrise, Spring Moss

Ink for Masculine card: Terracotta Tile, Orange Zest, Rich Cocoa (Memento),

Embellishments: skittles for the girl owl

Tools: rick rack die

Hey there, chickadee...

2010-05-15T07:14:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite sentiments, but I haven't used it until now. Why is that? I also love this bird image from Everyday Button Bits.

I used a googlie eye for the large bird, but let one of the holes be the eye for the smaller one. I think their wings are adorable.

Gotta finish the inside, of course. Just repeating the rick rack pattern. Love the rick rack die. I'm really happy with the way this card turned out.

Thanks for visiting!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Everyday Button Bits, BB-Tin Types

Paper: Hawaiian Shores, New Leaf, Kraft, Green Boutique

Ink: Hawaiian Shores, New Leaf, Rich Cocoa (Memento)

Embellishments: Hawaiian Shore buttons, New Leaf buttons, googly eye

Tools: rick rack die, 1/2" circle punch (SU)

PPD Challenge #3

2010-05-12T14:45:00.000-07:00

Boy, talk about last minute! I've been so busy the past few days I didn't have much time to do any card-making. Even though my family was so good about letting me do what I wanted on Mother's Day, I ended up wanting to just spend quality time with them.

This week's Papertrey Paper Doll's challenge was a sketch by Suzanne. It is such a versatile sketch. I really wanted to give it a try. This is what I came up with in the small amount of time I had. It's a 4x4 card.

I don't have enough masculine cards. Actually, I don't think I have any left. I use them as fast as I make them. So, I went "masculine" for this challenge. I love the Turning a New Leaf paper, but this is the first time I used it. I'm really glad I did. It's so pretty! (I guess that may not be such a good thing if this is supposed to be a masculine card, huh!)

I stamped the leaf image and cut it out by hand. The sentiment is on vellum so that the patterned paper won't be hidden. I'm not sure if buttons are okay for masculine cards, but I think this one worked. Thanks for visiting!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Turning a New Leaf, Birthday Basics

Paper: Turning a New Leaf, Chocolate Chip (SU), Select White, vellum

Ink: Ripe Avocado, Rich Cocoa (Memento)

Embellishments: Dark Chocolate buttons, twine

Flowers to "Die" For

2010-05-08T07:28:00.000-07:00

I know...corny title for this post, but I'm terrible at coming up with creative titles.

I'm a planner by nature. One of the problems I have when I sit to stamp is I over-think my projects too much. I'm slowly learning to let go and relax when I create. Well, this was one of those days where I allowed my creative juices to flow where they may. I actually enjoyed myself and was quite pleased with the result. This is what I made.

I used my Beautiful Blooms II dies to create the felt flowers. The felt cuts so well. The bottom patterned paper was made using elements from the BB: Tin Types and BB: Botanicals.

Of course, I had to finish the inside of the card too. I used the same dies for the inside and stamped the image.

Thanks for visiting!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Beautiful Blooms II, BB-Tin Types, BB-Botanicals, Polka Dots Basic II

Paper: Raspberry Fizz, Spring Moss, PTI White

Ink: Raspberry Fizz, Spring Moss, Ripe Avocado

Embellishments: white felt, Raspberry Fizz buttons, twine, white gel pen

Tools: Beautiful Blooms II die, rick rack die, oval scallop punch (SU), oval punch (SU)

PPD Challenge #2

2010-05-03T11:22:00.000-07:00

Time another Papertrey Paper Dolls Challenge! It's Meg's turn and she has a sweet sketch for us to try. Come on over to our blog, check it out and give it a try!

Here's my take on Meg's sketch challenge. Raspberry Fizz is one of my favorite PTI colors.

The felt flowers and bling brads are from a stash that I bought a long time ago. They've been patiently waiting for their turn.

Here's the inside of the card. I used the single flower stamp from Out on a Limb. Just something nice and simple.

This was a fun sketch. Hope you decide to play along with us. Thanks for visiting!

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Fillable Frames #1, Turning a New Leaf, Out on a Limb

Paper: Raspberry Fizz Mix, Raspberry Fizz, PTI White

Ink: Raspberry Fizz, Spring Moss

Embellishments: felt flowers, brads

Tools: Fillable Frames #1 die

A Purple Birthday

2010-05-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd ink up some of my neglected stamps. This set is from There She Goes. It has so many birthday images you're bound to find the image you need in this set.

I made this card while I was at a scrapbooking retreat. I brought my SU markers since my copic markers do not leave my crafting room. I then cut out each piece by hand. I put some purple stickles on the polka dots.

For the cake, I stamped it twice on white cardstock. I colored and cut out one of the images and used pop-up tape to place it on top of the non-colored image. I put some dimensional glue on the pink pearl border and the candles. It's hard to see on the picture.

I stamped another one of the images on the inside and colored it to finish the card. I may try this again using "boy" colors.

Thanks for visiting.

All supplies used are from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise specified.

Stamps: Make a Wish (There She Goes)

Paper: 2008 Bitty Box Basics, Tempting Turquoise (SU),

Ink: SU Markers, Tuxedo Black (Memento)

Embellishments: stickles, dimensional glue