Getting Ready for SSW--Part 1

What a mess! I am so excited that I have finally settled on what the make and takes will be for the Super Stampin' Weekend. It has been a huge source of stress for me lately. I had to hurry up and figure out what I needed so that I could place an order and have it arrive on time. I am still waiting on the rest of the order, but I thought I'd start getting ready what I have.

The Weekend fee includes 3 make and takes this year. We will be doing 2 scrapbook layouts and one 3D item. This picture shows me getting the materials ready. This is some of the pieces for two of the projects. We have 15 people joining us this year which isn't too bad to prepare for.

If you look closely, you will spot my gift to the participants of the Super Stampin' Weekend! I am very pleased with what I found this year. I will post pictures of the final projects after the weekend takes place so that I can keep them a surprise for the ladies attending.

Card Swaps

I think I've mentioned before that I am part of a group of demonstrators that swaps cards periodically. This lets us get a variety of samples to show our customers without having to purchase all of the stamp sets. Our group is called Quality Control Swappers or QC Swappers. The ladies in this group do fantastic work and I'm very honored to be included with them! Anyway, here are two cards I made recently for a "New Catalog Set" card swap for this group.

This first card uses A Good Friend stamp set found on page 91 in the current catalog. I am not a bird person (ask me about the time I found myself in Lorikeet Landing in San Deigo), but I just LOVE this bird in the stamp set. I also bought the coordinating set Cheep Talk on page 90.

I took the color combination from the Rainbow Sherbert designer paper--Tempting Turquoise, Apricot Appeal, Green Galore, and Gable Green. This is such a fun, happy combination! I used my Big Shot Texturz plates to give some texture to the popped up wing.

Recipe
Stamp Sets: Good Friend, Wow Flowers (sentiment)
Paper: Rainbow Sherbet DP, Apricot Appeal, Gable Green, Whisper White
Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Apricot Appeal, Close to Cocoa
Accessories: Big Shot Texturz SU BG 1, Large Oval punch, Apricot Appeal grosgrain ribbon, Clear Rhinestone Brads, Stampin' Dimensionals, Cutter Kit


This second card uses the Lots of Thoughts stamp set. This is a set we've needed for a long time! No one likes having to make Sympathy cards, but there are times that we all need them. I fell in love with the tree in this set the minute I saw it. I was so very excited to see that we had a matching Decor Element. I haven't had a chance to put it up, but will share a picture once I do.

Recipe:
Stamp Set: Lots of Thoughts
Paper: Chocolate Chip Patterns DP, Sage Shadow, Kraft, Very Vanilla
Ink: Chocolate Chip (craft and classic), Sage Shadow
Accessories: Iridescent Ice EP, Heat Tool, Kraft Tafetta Ribbon, Large Oval punch, Eyelet Border punch, 5/16 Neutral Brads, Stampin' Sponge, Stampin' Dimensionals

Glitter Windows

Have you ever made a Glitter Window card? This was the first card technique I ever tried when I first started stamping. Below is the actual card I made over 4 years ago. I had just started stamping. It is a very simple, easy card--but definitely not my style now! :O)

The Glitter Window is made by adding a piece of clear packaging tape to the back and then sprinkling Dazzling Diamonds Glitter on top. While working on some cards the other day, I decided to give Glitter Windows another try. Here are two that I made:

This first card uses the Big Shot Snowflake die. The rest of the card is very simple because the snowflake window is so huge! I love that the Baja Breeze background shows through the window and gives a nice color to it.

This second card is made using two punches--the Scallop Circle and the Snowburst punch. I saw another card like this one and thought it was such a neat take on the glitter window.

Glitter Window Technique:
1. Use a punch or die or paper cutter to make some type of window in the base of your card.
2. Add packaging tape to the back of the cardstock so that the sticky of the tape is on front.
3. Sprinkle Dazzling Diamonds to the sticky side and brush off excess.
4. Finish your card as you like!

Class by Email: Sweet Stems Faux Silk Purse & Cards Set

I've had quite a few of you ask if I would be offering a class for the Valentine treat box and cards that I shared the other day. Well, I will not be doing an in-home class, but I will offer you the chance to get the directions in a Class by Email format. This means that you will receive a file with step by step directions to make the project. The directions will feature the colors and paper you see above. This Class by Email features the Faux Silk technique. Included in the file are step by step directions to complete the technique.

Option #1: Place a an order of $35 or more (before shipping and tax) from now until March 31 and get the directions for FREE. You can place your order through my online store or directly with me. Club orders/SSW orders do not count. Once your order is placed, I will email you the 20 page step by step instruction file, complete with lots of pictures.

Here is a sample of the direction sheet:

Main products you will need to complete project as shown: Sweet Stems stamp set, Raspberry Tart designer paper, Wide Oval Punch, Kiwi Kiss Satin Ribbon, Markers--Cameo Coral, Real Red, Pretty in Pink. Find the full list of products at the end of this post. Keep in mind that you can substitute what you have on hand like I did for the teachers' gifts in my previous post.

Option #2: You can purchase the 20 page instruction file for only $7. You can use the Buy Now button below to purchase this option. Once payment is received, I will email you the file.

ETA: The Paypal link is working now! Thanks to those of you who let me know it wasn't working!

ETA #2: Okay, I'm not sure what is going on with the Buy Now Paypal link. It is supposed to take you to a checkout screen that will allow you to use your Paypal account (if you have one) or pay with a credit card, but it seems some of you are having trouble with it. If it doesn't work for you, you can use Paypal to send the payment to me by using my email address: carriestamps@aol.com or email me and I can send an invoice through Paypal. Sorry for the trouble!

Price Options

Regular Price $7.00 Clubbers $5.00

This Class by Email is not available to Demonstrators.
If you wish to have more information, please contact me directly.

This Class by Email is available now until March 31.

Full List of Products Used:

Stamps
• Sweet Stems
(113726; Set of 4)
• Kind Thanks
(111700; Set of 4)

Paper
• 102544 Card Stock – 8 ½” x 11” – Rose Red
• 100475 Card Stock – 8 ½” x 11” – Cameo Coral
• 101650 Card Stock – 8 ½” x 11” – Very Vanilla
• 111353 Card Stock – 8 ½” x 11” – Kiwi Kiss
• 100459 Card Stock – 8 ½” x 11” – Pretty in Pink
• 113975 Designer Series Paper – 12” x 12” – Raspberry Tart

Ink
• 101179 Classic Ink – Basic Black
• 111835 Classic Ink – Kiwi Kiss
• 102283 Classic Ink – VersaMark Ink
• 105216 Classic Ink – Pumpkin Pie
• 100074 Stampin’ Write Marker – Cameo Coral
• 100052 Stampin’ Write Marker – Real Red
• 100045 Stampin’ Write Marker – Pretty in Pink

Stampin’ Up! Accessories
• 111879 Satin Ribbon – Kiwi Kiss/Very Vanilla
• 104045 Anywhere Glue Stick
• 104430 Stampin’ Dimensionals
• 104331 SNAIL Refill
• 104294 Sticky Strip
• 103683 Mini Glue Dots
• 107300 Medium Envelopes – Very Vanilla
• 103954 Aqua Painter
• 108362 Crop-A-Dile
• 112082 Wide Oval Punch
• 109047 3/16” Corner Rounder Punch
Adhesive, scissors and paper trimmer

Non Stampin' Up! Products Used
• Velcro™ Dot w/ sticky backing
• Tissue Paper (gift wrap) - White

Valentine Treats for Kyle's Teachers

The night before Kyle's little Valentine exchange at school, I stayed up late working on his teachers' gifts. I decided to make this adorable accordion box and set of matching cards. I used the Candy Lane designer series paper and the Sweet Stems stamp set. I included envelopes, of course, and a little cello bag of Hershey Kisses.

I just love the Sweet Stems stamp set. We will be using it in my Stamp-a-Stack on the 24th. I still have spots available, so let me know if you'd like to join us.

Yummy!

This is a super quick project that uses the Top Note die for the Big Shot. I found this idea on Dawn Griffith's blog and fell in love with it because of its simplicity. The stamped image you see is from the Yummy stamp set found in the Sale-a-Bration catalog. You can earn it as well as 5 other items for free with each $50 order from now until March 31. If you haven't see the catalog, check out the pink catalog to the right.


I took the above idea and came up with this idea for Kyle's school Valentines. He stamped them himself and wrote his name on the back of all 22 of them! I stamped the greeting and the ants to help him out. I was surprised at how quickly he did them. I thought we would need 2 days, but we finished in a little over an hour, I think.

A few of them have some shadow stamping (tapping the stamp a couple of times or dropping the stamp) and quite a few inky fingerprints. This one actually has the greeting in the top right, where as most of them had the greeting in the bottom right. I had planned on using mini glue dots to attach the Hersey kisses, but they wouldn't work. I had to use Sticky Strip instead.

February Newsletter Valentine Project

Here is an easy little Valentine treat you can make super quickly! This treat holder holds a little cello bag of candy. I used my new candy obsession---Sweethearts.

1. Cut a Real Red piece of cardstock to 3 1/4 x 8 1/2.
2. Score at 1, 4 1/2, and 5".
3. Use Scallop Edge punch to scallop the edge of the 1" section.
4. Stamp this piece as you wish.
5. Cut a small cello bag to 3 3/8".
6. Fill the bag with candy (you don't want it to be too full!).
7. Place the bag inside your pouch so that the open end is near the crease of the 1" flap.
8. Close the pouch and use your Crop-a-dile or hole punch to punch two holes in center of the 1" section---these punched holes will go through all layers--bag included.
9. Use ribbon to tie the pouch closed.

Supplies Used:
Stamps: Happy Heart Day
Inks: Real Red, markers
Paper: Real Red, More Mustard, Whisper White
Other: Crop-a-dile, White grosgrain ribbon, Iridescent Ice embossing powder, Versamark, heat tool, Scallop Edge punch

Candy Heart Purse

This is another project the ladies made at my Valentine Treats Class. It uses one clear envelope, a velcro dot and Coluzzle ovals. Easy and so cute! If I had a daughter, this is what she would be passing out for Valentine's Day!

1. Use Coluzzle to cut a large oval from cardstock and the next size oval from Designer Paper.
2. Adhere to ovals together and fold along the long side.
3. Use Crop-a-dile or hole punch to punch two holes along crease for your ribbon handle.
4. Tie a 10” piece of ribbon through the holes.
5. Use a bone folder to make sharp creases on the clear envelope flap. Fold up the bottom of the envelope so that it touches the flap creases—use bone folder to get a sharp crease.
6. Apply a strip of Sticky Strip at the top back of your envelope pouch. Adhere it to the inside of the cardstock oval at the crease.
7. Insert candy of your choice in the envelope. Fold up the bottom.
8. Adhere a Velcro dot to the inside flap of your cardstock oval and close your purse. When you are ready to give this as a gift, you can pull of the envelope flap covering and close the “bag.”
9. Decorate as you wish.

Scrapbooking Part 2

Okay, here is my 2nd layout for this week. These pictures are also from a few years ago. We bought some goldfish right before Christmas one year. Kyle has always loved animals and he loved watching the fish swim around. As you can see, Minnie the cat like them, too! Kent was dismayed that the fish lasted as long as they did. He got a bit tired of changing and cleaning the tank!

I used the Big Shot swirly die like I did for the Little Mermaid layout I posted a while back. Have I told you that I LOVE my Big Shot? I do.

Scrapbooking Part 1

I have vowed to do more of my own scrapbooking this year, so I am going to try to post a Scrapbooking layout each week. I won't promise, though! :)

My goal this year is to finish all of 2008, even though I have plenty of earlier photos I'd like to scrap. Well, just recently I veered off course and have started scrapping photos from 2 and 3 years ago. This is what I'll be sharing with you today and tomorrow.

Every good scrapper knows that you are supposed to journal your pages. Your supposed to tell the story that your photos can't tell. To be honest, I'm horrible about journaling. It's not that I don't write well or can't come up with something to say, but rather, I just don't take the time to do it! I know, I know---bad demonstrator! I will work on this. I do still plan to journal this page, though!

I have recently fallen in love with making punched art images. I have been a doing Stampin' Up! for over 4 years and have rarely bought anything that isn't SU! I find that photos I have of characters or very specific events are hard for me to scrap if I don't have matching stamps. So, I have now discovered how awesome it is to be able to make almost anything with our fabulous punches! Aren't the Sesame Street characters adorable?! I love them!

Scrapbooking Club

This is the layout that my club will be making this month. It uses the Love You Much stamp set and the Candy Lane designer paper.

If you are looking to make scrapbooking easier, you will want to join one of my Scrappin' Clubs! Each month, you will meet at my house to make a 12x12 layout like this. You will also swap layouts with your club members each month. This means that each person will make a two-page layout and duplicate it for every member in the group. Each month you will go home with up to 7 two-page layouts that only need your pictures to complete them. It is much easier to replicate a layout 6 times than coming up with 6 different layouts!

I have spots available for a Monday night Scrappin' Club. This club will meet on the 2nd Mondays of the month beginning in April. You will take turns one month to receive the Hostess Benefits---at least $15 to spend and a level 1 Hostess-only stamp set. I am also starting a waiting list for an additional night, but will need 6 people to get it started. Let me know if you are interested!

Stay tuned over the next few days for additional Scrapbooking samples!

Ordering Online Tips

More of you are starting to place online orders through my website, so I want to be sure that your experience is easy and that you are getting everything you can earn with those online orders.

1. To order online, go to my website---www.carrieclary.stampinup.net. Click on the SHOP NOW button at the top right.
2. You can browse by New Products, stamp sets, embellishments, tools, etc.
3. When you see an item, you click on it to get more information on it and to view the "Add to Bag" button.
4. You can place an order and still receive the Hostess Benefits--called Stampin' Rewards for online ordering--- with an order of $150 or more.

Current Specials to Consider:
1. From now until April 30, any online order through my website will receive a free Idea Book & Catalog automatically with your order.
2. From now until March 31, you can earn a free Sale-a-Bration reward with each $50 spent. Once you have your merchandise entered, you will need to enter the product numbers for each of your free SAB rewards on the same screen.

At the bottom of your Shopping Bag page, you will see a Special Offer Box (see pic below) that will show which offers you qualify for . If you earn Sale-a-bration rewards, you need to enter the item number of the reward you choose.
First time users will need to set up a user account with a password. The next time you order, you will just enter the email address you used and your password.

Sale-a-Bration is here!

February 1 - March 31, 2009

The most wonderful time of the stampin' year is here----Sale-a-Bration! What is so great about it, you ask? During Sale-a-Bration, EVERYONE can earn something for FREE, not just hostesses!

This year the Sale-a-Bration rewards include 4 different stamp sets, a special combo of ribbon, and a 16 sheet Designer Paper pack. You can view the SAB brochure by clicking here or looking to the right under Current Catalogs. It is the pink catalog!

There are 3 ways you can earn some free stuff:

1. For each $50 order (before shipping and tax), you can choose 1 of 6 SAB rewards absolutely FREE! There is no limit to the number you can earn. Spend $100, get 2 rewards. Spend $150, get 3, etc.

2. When you host a Stampin' Party, you will receive one choice for each $300 in sales from your party. This is an excellent time to be a hostess because everyone likes free stuff, and most people who order will be sure to hit the $50 mark so that they can get a free reward. This makes your party sales higher and earns you more free stuff!

3. Join the Stampin' Up! family to become a demonstrator like me. Anyone who signs up during SAB, will get to choose 1 stamp set from the current catalog (value of up to $47.95) for free. Plus, get 15% off the regular $199 price of the Starter Kit--that's $335 worth of products for only $169!

And, when you choose to join my team, I will offer you a chance to earn up to $30 in free merchandise. You'll get $15 in free stuff once your paperwork is processed. When you promote to Senior Associate, I'll give you another $15 in free merchandise! Look to the right under "Special Download Forms" for my FAQ about Being a Demonstrator that may answer any questions you might have.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions!

Click on the picture below to view the list of included items in the Starter Kit!

Love You Much projects

There are only 2 more days to order the Love You Much Bundle at 20% off. For $44.14, you get the fantastic Love You Much stamp set, coordinating 3 heart punch, and awesome Candy Lane designer series paper. January 31 is the last day for this sale. After this date, you can still purchase each product individually at regular price.

Here are a few projects I've made using the bundle:

Hershey Kiss holder--holds 4 kisses


1. Start with a piece of 4 1/4 x 5 cardstock.
2. Score at 1 1/2, 3, 4 1/2.
3. Stick Hershey kisses to the inside with mini glue dots.
4. Fold over under the little flap and adhere it to the inside.
5. Decorate as you wish!

Okay, please excuse the messy stamping on this project. I was in a hurry and the ink smeared! I didn't have time to go back and redo it.

This card was copied from Aly Schilling. I used the textured Chocolate Chip cardstock, which I have rarely used. I must say that I see the draw of this cardstock and have resolved to start using it more--especially since I have 2 packs of it stashed away! I love the look of it. It jazzes up even the most simple project.


Candy Heart Pull Box

1. Start with a 4 x 7 1/4" piece of cardstock.
2. Score it at 3/4, 3 1/4, 4, and 6 1/2".
3. Use Sticky Strip to adhere the small flaps together.
4. Use the Horizontal Slit punch to make a slit at the top of both sides of the box--this is for your ribbon.
5. Cut a 20" piece of ribbon. Slide it through the slots so that the ends are coming out of the front and back of the box.
6. Insert your candy heart box in the middle so that it pulls down the ribbon.
7. Let the box settle to the end of your cardstock box and tie a knot or bow at the top. Now, when you want to get the candy, all you do is pull the ribbon up--you don't have to untie it.
8. Decorate as you wish.

I made a belly band for my box---did you notice my textured cardstock?! See, I'm on a roll! My belly band measured 3 x 7 1/4---score the same as above. Don't you love my sparkly image? I used the Faux Diamond technique to make it all pretty. After your image is complete, smoosh your Versamark pad on top of it. Make sure the whole piece is covered. Sprinkle Iridescent Ice embossing powder on top and heat it. That's it. Just be sure not to overheat it or you'll lose the "sparkliness."

Valentine Paper Cone

This is one of the projects we made at my Holiday Treats Series Class: Valentine's. It's really simple and super easy to make! The cone uses the large scallop die for the Big Shot. A big thank you to Angie Juda for sharing this terrific idea. The small cello bag is filled with pink and red M&M's. Yummy! I think I will be making these for Kyle's class.

Directions:

1. Cut a circle from Designer Paper with your circle cutter or using the Big Shot scallop circle.


2. Adhere a 1” piece of Sticky Strip to the bottom left edge of the inside of your circle.


3. Gently bend your paper to form the cone shape.


4. Fill a small cello bag with candy of your choice.


5. Decorate as you wish.

Big Shot Pennant Pouch

Okay, since it's a snow day, I thought I'd post another project from my Big Shot Class last night. Maybe you'll have time to make a few today, unless you're big on sledding and playing in the snow---which I am not. At all. Thank goodness Kent is home today to take Kyle outside. I will take him out for a while, but I'm not all that happy about it!

All of the ladies chose to make two of these pouches rather than make a banner. They also made a pocket card using the Pennant die which I will share another day.

This pouch used 3 of the small pennants---2 from cardstock (Close to Cocoa) and one from Designer Paper (new Candy Lane paper!). Attach the two cardstock pennants together with sticky strip or mini glue dots along the edges to make a pouch. Add your DP pennant and decorate as you wish. I used the Love You Much stamp set (new from the catalog and part of the Love You Much bundle--which is available at 20% off only until January 31!). I set two of the jumbo eyelets at the top and added some of the Rope Twine from the Holiday Mini. Wouldn't this be a cute pouch to hang from a doorknob? Add some candy and treats. So fun!

Big Shot Pennant Banner

I held the last of my Big Shot Club classes last night. This class focused on the XL dies and the Texturz plates. This banner is one of the projects I showed them using the XL Pennant die. It's very simple, but could be jazzed up by adding some stamped images and accessories like rhinestone brads.

I'll share a few more projects using the Big Shot over the next few days, so stay tuned!

Free Idea Book with an Online Purchase!

From February 1-April 30, 2009, you can earn a free award-winning Idea Book & Catalog. The Idea Book & Catalog is so much more than "just a catalog." It is filled to the brim with full color samples of cards, scrapbook pages, and 3D items. It is a great source of inspiration for your crafting projects. Plus, you can download a complete list of the supplies used for each and every project--to the right under Catalogs---Supply List.

To receive a free Spring-Summer 2009 Idea Book & Catalog, you must place an online order during the promotional period through my website: www.carrieclary.stampinup.net . Click on the "Shop Now" button near the top right corner. Your order will be delivered directly to your house.

There is no minimum order amount required, so anyone can take advantage of this offer.

New Accessory and Marker Clubs

Hello stampers! I have been perusing my new catalog daily and have such a long wish list that I thought I might be able to help us all get a little bit of what we want by doing a few product shares. Sign ups for the Product Shares end February 15. Payment is due by that date.

Product Shares

Corduroy Buttons & Brads $18 page 176
Includes: 6 of each color (2 of each size) = 36 pieces

Spring/Summer 2009 New Ribbons $18 pages 178-179
1 yard of 12 ribbons =12 yards

• 1 yard of So Saffron Ribbon from the Dress Up package
• 1 yard of Whisper White Ribbon from the Dress Up package
• 1 yard of Riding Hood Red Ribbon from the Dress Up package
• 1 yard of Kiwi Kiss double sided polka dot ribbon from the Pig Tails package
• 1 yard of Pumpkin Pie rick rack ribbon from the Pig Tails package
• 1 yard of Baja Breeze ribbon from the Valet package
• 1 yard of Chocolate Chip polka dot ribbon from the Valet package
• 1 yard of Basic Black ribbon from the Valet package
• 1 yard of striped Old Olive ribbon
• 1 yard of striped Pretty in Pink ribbon
• 1 yard of striped So Saffron ribbon
• 1 yard of Organza white ribbon

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Marker Club
Want all the markers and the fantastic carrying case that fits all of them? Join my Marker Club and pay a little each month, plus receive the hostess benefits one month and get $15 to spend plus a level 1 hostess-only stamp set---without ever having to hostess an in-home workshop!

Each member commits to a payment of $46 or $47 each month for 4 months. Payment by cash or check is due on the 15th of the month from March - June. Each club will need 4 members, so be sure to let others know about the club if you think they might be interested!

YOU WILL RECEIVE:
Each Month
- One color family (that’s 12) of the Stampin’ Up! Markers.
- One pack of coordinating 8 ½ x 11 assorted cardstock ($46/month) or the 12x12 assorted cardstock ($47/month)

Hostess Month:
- All the above, and:
- $15 (minimum) in products from any current Stampin’ Up! Catalog.
- One, Level 1 (minimum) Hostess Gift from the current Stampin’ Up! Catalog.
- If you choose to gather outside orders or schedule a workshop when it’s your turn as hostess, you can get even more free merchandise.

The last month:
- Stampin’ Up! Markers Plastic Storage/Carrying Case

If you wish to sign up for one or more of these clubs, please let me know asap and send in your payment by the specified due date(s). If you have any questions about these clubs, just give me a call or send in an email!

Love You Much Class--new due dates!

I am so excited to share an upcoming class with you. During this class, you will make 4 standard sized cards, 4 Love Note size (3x3), and 9 tags. We will also create the adorable briefcase shown which fits everything you make. Isn't this a perfect valentine gift for someone special?

Cost Option 1: $25, includes all the supplies you need to make a kit. **
Cost Option 2: $64, includes the Love You Much bundle (Love You Much stamp set, Candy Lane Designer Series Paper (we use 2 sheets for the project), and the Heart to Heart punch) plus the additional supplies needed to make the kit. *makes the class only $15!!!

**please bring your own adhesive (don't forget a refill!) and a paper cutter with scoring blade!!

Date: Friday, February 6
Time: 6:30 PM
RSVP & Payment: January 26
**I am able to push back the RSVP date because SU has worked out some backorder issues with the bundle. Please let me know asap, if you wish to attend!

This class may take up to 3 1/2 hours, depending on how quickly you assemble your cards.

CLASS TO GO OPTION
Not able to attend the class date? You can choose my Class-to Go kit which will include step by step directions with photos and the consumable supplies you need to complete the projects.

To complete the projects as shown you will need the following:
VersaMark Pad
Basic Brown Classic ink pad
Chocolate Chip Classic ink pad
Close to Cocoa Classic ink pad
Kiwi Kiss Classic ink pad or refill
Pink Pirouette Classic ink pad or refill
Riding Hood Red Classic ink pad & refill
So Saffron Classic ink pad or refill
Sticky Strip and other adhesive
Scallop Edge Punch
1/16” handheld circle punch
1/8” handheld circle punch
Scallop circle punch
Tag corner punch
Designer Label punch
Heart to Heart punch
Blender pens

*****of course, you can modify the projects by using what you have on hand!

Payment is the same as above. Your step-by-step handout of 34 pages will be emailed to you once payment is received.

This Class-to-Go kit is not available for purchase to other Stampin' Up! demonstrators. If you are a demonstrator and are interested in this class, please email me directly".

Out with the Old, In with the New!

Today is your last opportunity!!

You have until midnight tonight to order anything from the current Idea Book & Catalog and the Holiday Mini catalog. Ink pads and reinkers are both increasing in price starting tomorrow. That's about the only price increase I know about.

The new Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog begins tomorrow! Orders can begin being placed starting at noon.

Some things to look forward to in the new catalog:

• All stamps are die cut--does bring a small price increase to the stamp sets, but the time you save is so worth it!


• New BIG SHOT dies---textured plates, clear dies so that you can see what you are cutting, embosslits


• Clear rhinestone brads can be purchased separately from the Pretties kit


• Yummy corduroy buttons--wait for detail about a Button Share! Get a little bit of all the colors--details coming soon.


• Fun textured, heavyweight DESIGNER PAPERS


• 5 new Simply Scrappin' Kits


• Flower brads in Pumpkin Pie, Pretty in Pink, Chocolate Chip and So Saffron


• New border punch that looks like lace


• Button Bouquet button assortment in "Latte" colors


• Jumbo Brads--5/16" and 5/8" in Choc. Chip, White, Vanilla and Silver


• .......and so much more!

Do you need a new Spring Summer 2009 Idea Book & Catalog? The catalogs retail for $10, but I sell them to my customers at my cost-$5. If you'd like your catalog shipped, please add $5 so that I can send it Priority Mail.

I Love the Little Mermaid!

Isn't this the cutest layout you've ever seen? The seaweed is made using the Big Shot and the Swirly decorative die. The mermaid and crab use various SU punches. I didn't come up with those original ideas, but the layout is all mine! I was so excited when the idea came to me (while taking a shower---seems to be my new source of inspiration). My club girls were going to be using Stampin' Up's fantastic punches to make fun little punch art cards. My downline Christine did a swap while at Convention this year and brought back some of the most amazing ideas.

This was going to be the 2nd club meeting doing the punch art--this was at their request. I wanted to show the ladies how to take their punch art pieces and use the in a card and layout, so that's how this layout came about.

Anyway, two years ago we went to Florida in December and took Kyle to Disney for the first time. The only character we waited in line to see was the Little Mermaid. We waited almost an hour, which I realize isn't that bad, but long enough for us! The Little Mermaid sits in a grotto. When little boys go to see her, she puts lipstick on and gives them a kiss on the cheek. Kyle was a little nervous to see her, but got comfortable. He loved his lipstick kiss, though.

When I get the pictures on this layout, I will be sure to share them with you.

I'm Famous! Well, sort of.

This has been a good month for me! I am part of a group of demonstrators that swap cards when new catalogs come out. When this current catalog was new in July, I made two cards that used new stamp sets from the catalog for our group. JoAnn is in charge of our swaps and sends in our extra cards to Stampin' Up. Each day, SU features 4-6 cards from demonstrators all over on the Stamper's Showcase--which is a gallery located on the demonstrator only website. Two of my cards were featured this month!

You've seen this first card which was part of my Stamp-a-Stack a while backand uses the Inspired by Nature stamp set and Flight of the Butterfly stamp set:


This second card is the first time I used by Big Shot and uses the Eastern Blooms stamp set:

Scrapbooking

This was my swap for my mixed Scrapbooking/Card Making Club that met last night. I just love this tree from the Snow Swirled stamp set. It is so pretty! The green background is actually Old Olive, but it looks horrible in this picture! I had not stamped anything since before Christmas so it was nice to play in my basement again. Although, I ended up being there all day while I worked on making 9 of these pages!

I am so excited about the other great swaps we got tonight. It is so nice to get a great selection of themes and styles. I'm going to start getting my things ready for the Super Stampin' Weekend and having all of these swaps makes it so much easier. I just grab my pictures and see which swaps will work for them and then put the swaps and pictures in a Craft Keeper. When I'm ready to scrapbook, all I have to do is pull out a folder and I'm ready to start.

Are you wondering what swapping is? A swap is where you make the same layout for everyone in your group. Everyone else also makes a layout for everyone in the group. Then we swap--taking home 9 two-page layouts that only need our pictures added to them. It is so much easier to to make 9 of the same layout than to make 9 different layouts. Be sure to read this post for more information about swapping.

It's not too late to sign up for the Super Stampin' Weekend March 20 -22! You can find information by clicking on the link above or by clicking on "Super Stampin' Weekend Registration Form" in the right column under "Special Download Forms." We will be having a scrapbook swap due the Saturday of the weekend, so you will have quite a few pages to get you going through the weekend. There are 3 options for your stay: All Weekend, One Night, or All Day Saturday. This will be our 4th time going to King's Domain and we always have such a fantastic time. You don't want to miss it! Feel free to call my with any questions.

Frolic & Play Layout

I want to share this layout that I did for a class last year. I'm not sure why I never posted it here, but here it is now!

Images Copyright Stampin' Up!

I made this layout at my upline's group meeting and just fell in love with it. The colors are very bright and somewhat of an unusual layout idea, but I think that's why I like it! I love the snowman head peeking out from the corner.

Supplies:
Stamps: Well Worn Alphabet, Heartfelt Thanks (for the little circle eyes)
Cardstock: Ballet Blue, Tempting Turquoise, Only Orange, Green Galore, Pixie Pink, Whisper White
Ink: Pixie Pink, Basic Black, White Craft
Other: Coluzzle, Circle Punches, Color Spritzer Tool, Crimper, White embossing powder

Dry Embossing Part 3

Here are two cards using a Dry Embossing technique called Dry Debossing. For this technique, you emboss as normal but use the indented side of the cardstock and stamp over it with a background stamp. The background stamps around the indented portions.

Recipes

Happy Together Card
Classy Brass Template: Priceless
Stamp Sets: Priceless, Happy Everything, Canvas
Ink: Real Red
Paper: Pirouette Pink, Real Red, Whisper White
Other: Oval punches, Scallop Punch, 5/8" Real Red Grosgrain, Crop-a-dile

Kindness Card
Classy Brass Template: Priceless
Stamp Set: Heard from the Heart, Canvas
Ink: More Mustard, Chocolate Chip
Paper: More Mustard, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Always Artichoke

Dry Embossing Part 2

Here are two more cards using the Dry Embossing Technique.

Recipes

Pink Card
Classy Brass Template: Priceless
Stamp Set: Hugs & Wishes
Ink: Pixie Pink
Paper: Pixie Pink, Kiwi Kiss, Pumpkin Pie
Other: Gold Brads, Kiwi Kiss striped grosgrain ribbon

Anniversary Card
Classy Brass Template: Pick a Petal
Stamp Set: Hugs & Wishes
Ink: Perfect Plum
Paper: Perfect Plum, Pale Plum, Whisper White
Other: Piercing Mat

Dry Embossing Part 1

I was playing around with dry embossing earlier this week and made some cards to show you. If you've never dry embossed before, you will really like the look it gives. Dry Embossing by hand can be a little time consuming depending on how much embossing you do. These cards didn't take too long.

To dry emboss, you need a Brass Template (found on page 191 in the IB&C), Light Box, Wax Paper, and Stylus. Stampin' Up offers two kinds of styluses---the Empressor Stylus ($10.95) and a regular wood stylus ($2.50). I own both of them, but really only use the cheaper wood one. You will need it's smaller ends to get in between the brass templates Stampin' Up offers.

What is the wax paper for? You rub it on the cardstock that you will be embossing on. It helps the stylus to move more smoothly and helps prevent tearing of the cardstock.

It is sometimes hard to see the actual dry embossing on the cards when I photograph them, but in real life, the dry embossing really pops.

Recipes:
Butterfly Card
Classy Brass Template: the one I uses is a retired template, but you would get the same look by using the Punches Plus template.
Stamps: Flight of the Butterfly
Ink: Pink Pirouette, Riding Hood Red, Chocolate Chip
Paper: Whisper White, Bella Rose Designer Paper
Other: White Tafetta Ribbon

Blue Card
Class Brass Template: Seeing Spots
Stamp Sets: Seeing Spots, Hugs & Wishes
Ink: Pacific Point, Bravo Burgundy, Creamy Caramel
Paper: Pacific Point, Whisper White, Kraft, Bravo Burgundy
Other: 5/8" Bravo Burgundy Grosgrain, Word Window Punch

Last Christmas Project!

Okay, here is my final project from Christmas. Nothing too exciting, though! I made these little candy holders for Kyle's preschool class using the Pillow Box die and the Big Shot. And, of course, I used the Deer Friends stamp set. I am going to miss this set so much when it retires! But, it will be one of those sets that stay on my retired shelf for a while--I won't be getting rid of this set for a long while! I love adding the little eyes to the reindeer. They are the 4mm size.

I didn't want to use adhesive on the flaps, so I used the Silver Elastic Cord (also found in the Holiday Mini) to close it. The Designer Paper is from the Riding Hood Red Patterns pack. I accidentally cut too many of the pillow boxes, so you will be seeing them again for a Valentine project.

Retiring Accessory List and an Inventory Blowout!

January 5 - January 18

Okay, the Retiring Accessory List was just posted. Items on this list are only available while supplies last, so order early for best selection! Items on this list are available from now until January 18 or while supplies last---whichever comes first. Stampin' Up! will update the list daily. I will then post the update here on my blog. Items in red are no longer available.

Stampin' Up! is also offering an Inventory Blowout Promotion from today until January 18 (the last day of this current catalog). This promotion offers a selection of Retired, Retiring, and Current Stampin' Up! products for up to 50% off! Once again, items are limited. You can view the Inventory Blowout items by clicking here.

Retiring Accessory List--updated 1/10 at 9:04 pm

tem #	Product Description	Availability
111377	ACCENTS & ELEMENTS ROOF GARDEN
112012	ACCENTS & ELEMENTS SEASON TO SHARE
112088	ACCENTS & ELEMENTS TRUE ELEGANCE
102782	ALBUM LEATHER BLACK 12X12	Sold Out
104188	ALBUM LEATHER BLACK 6X6
105384	ALBUM LINEN POST MELLOW MOSS 6X6*
104516	ALBUM LINEN POST NAVY 6X6
105381	ALBUM LINEN POST REAL RED 6X6*	Sold Out
103977	BUTTONS BOLD BRIGHTS*
103978	BUTTONS EARTH ELEMENTS
103981	BUTTONS EARTH ELEMENTS & NEUTRALS
105446	BUTTONS RICH REGALS
105445	BUTTONS SOFT SUBTLES
103604	DAYS-TO-REMEMBER CALENDAR 12X12
102174	DAYS-TO-REMEMBER CALENDAR 8 1/2X11
112465	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER BANBURY	Sold Out
112462	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER GEORGIA PEACH
112463	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER GHOSTLY GREETINGS
112040	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER GREEN TEA
112470	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER HAIKU
112460	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER HAWAII PAPAYA
112469	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER HOLIDAY TREASURES
112458	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER JUNIOR VARSITY
112459	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER MAINE BLUEBERRY
112466	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER MUIRFIELD
112149	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PARISIAN SUMMER
112467	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER PRESTWICK	Sold Out
111355	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SUMMER PICNIC
112039	DESIGNER SERIES PAPER WINDSOR KNOT
112963	ELEMENTOS PARA TARJETAS DIAS FESTIVOS HECHOS A MANO SIMPLY SENT
106523	ENVELOPE TEMPLATE FIVE-IN-ONE CARD COVER
104104	ENVELOPE TEMPLATE MINI
107298	ENVELOPES CONFETTI WHITE MEDIUM
110695	ENVELOPES OPEN END KRAFT SMALL
109115	ENVELOPES OPEN END VERY VANILLA SMALL
103372	METAL EDGE TAGS ALUMINUM WHITE SQUARE
107925	ON BOARD BITTY BOOK*
109190	ON BOARD CLIPBOARD 9X9*
109180	ON BOARD SIMON UPPER
112086	ON BOARD SOMETHING SEASONAL
107923	PAGE PROTECTORS RING 3.25 X 3.25	Sold Out
104942	PUNCH 1/4 INCH CIRCLE	Sold Out
104943	PUNCH 1/4 INCH SQUARE
107273	PUNCH 3/4 INCH SQUARE
104389	PUNCH DOUBLE CIRCLE*
100391	PUNCH HANDHELD 1/8 INCH CIRCLE	Sold Out
104830	RIBBON GINGHAM CARAMEL
104829	RIBBON GINGHAM LIGHT BLUE
104828	RIBBON GINGHAM LIGHT PINK
104831	RIBBON GINGHAM MOSS
109037	RIBBON GROSGRAIN MORE MUSTARD 1/4 INCH
110282	RUB ON ANCHORED
111806	RUB ON CHILLS & THRILLS
111805	RUB ON SCHOOL DAYS
111417	RUB ON WORD FLURRIES
110283	RUB ONS TAKE NOTE
112193	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN I WISH
112186	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN PINA COLADA
112068	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN SUMMER HOME	Sold Out
112043	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN U R SWEET
112061	SIMPLY SCRAPPIN WINTER RETREAT	Sold Out
112016	SIMPLY SENT CARD ELEMENTS HANDMADE HOLIDAY	Sold Out
109868	SIMPLY SENT CARD KIT LIFELONG NOTES
103647	STAMPIN STORE MINI
105813	WRITE ME A MEMORY FONT CD VOL II

	Retiring Wheels
107212	MATEYS MAP
106749	BRIGHT BULBS
109672	BRONCO	Sold Out
104100	MAKING TRACKS
108978	SANDY SHELLS
110332	SNOW
101233	SNOWFLAKE
109694	SWEET STARS
111249	TAKE A NUMBER

*This item is discounted and included on the Inventory Blowout.

Holiday Decor Elements

Here is the 2nd part to my Season of Thanks decor element project. It uses Holiday Treasures designer paper and the felt ribbon found in the Holiday Mini--last chance to order from the Holiday Mini is January 18! I apologize for the glare on the glass. I tried to take it without using a flash, but it was all blurry. This project is truly one of those that looks so much nicer in real life!

The idea of this project is that you can change out the backgrounds for different seasons. I'll be working on a spring one later. Actually, I'll be working on the whole project because I gave this one as a gift. Luckily, it's pretty easy to put together.

I bought the Shadow Box from Michaels. I believe it was 11 x14. The inside paper measurements are 11 1/4 x 12 for the poinsettia pattern and 11 1/4 x 6 for the bottom paper. I just made sure that the paper covered the velvet insert.

You can see the first picture by clicking here.

Happy New Year

Hi Ladies! I know it has been forever since I've posted. I will begin posting more very soon. I actually still have some Christmas projects that I have to show you!

I will be sending out my January newsletter within the next few days, but wanted to write a short reminder that this current catalog ends January 18. The Retired List is posted here. The Retired Accessory List will be coming out on January 5 at noon. The items on this list will be limited and some will run out quickly. If you see anything you want, I recommend you place your order online right away.

The new Spring/Summer Idea Book & Catalog will begin on January 19. I can't wait to see what new things SU is coming out with! I have preordered catalogs and expect them to be here around the 15th. That is only a guess, though. I have no real idea when they'll arrive. If you would like to reserve a catalog, let me know. The catalogs retail at $9.95, but I only charge my customers what I pay--$5. Why should you pay for a catalog? Well, it is really much more than a catalog--it is an Idea Book. You'd be hard-pressed to find another stamping publication with as many full color samples, not to mention a recipe supply list in the back for the cost of $5!

From now until January 31, anyone placing an order of $50 or more will receive a new Idea Book & Catalog for free. If you placed a $50 order in December, you also qualify for a free catalog. This will mean that you will have to pick it up from my Miamisburg home. If you'd like to have your catalog shipped, then add $4.60 for Priority Mail.

Clubbers, remember that you receive a free catalog. No need to contact me for one, I already have one saved for you.

To those of you who placed an order with me during the free shipping promotion: The order still has not shipped. I expect it to go out today, hopefully! I will let you know when it arrives.