Celebrating a creepy Halloween …

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

How are you liking the Halloween card share so far?  Today I am going to show you the “Joseph’s Coat” technique, with a bit of a  twist.

The colors I have chosen to use today are: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Summer Starfruit, and Whisper White.  I am also using the same Designer Paper I used yesterday, from the Witches Brew Designer Series Paper pack.

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First thing I did was measure my stamp so I could get the color effect I was looking for.  I used a 1 inch strip of white, starfruit and pumpkin and taped them (on backside) together.  Make sure they are butted up to each other very tight, with no gaps.

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Next, ink up the Halloween greeting stamp from the “Halloween Hello” stamp set with VersaMark™ and stamp it over the multi-color strip of cardstock … then heat emboss with clear embossing powder.

Then, using black ink … ink up your brayer and roll it back and forth over the image until covered evenly.  Take a paper towel and whip off excess ink from the embossed area … your greeting will “appear” but will have a “smudgy” look to it.  I think it gives it a bit of a “spooky” look, which is perfect for this time of year.

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I added the new Pumpkin Pie Chevron Ribbon (130015) to give the card a “pop” of color.  To balance out the card I added 3 rhinestones colored with a black Sharpie … then put a pop of Starfruit behind them so they would stand out more.

I’ll be back … tomorrow with another Halloween themed project.

Thanks for stopping by.

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Totally Batty …

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Happy Tuesday!  I hope you enjoyed yesterday’s stampin’ tip / technique with glitter, but today we are going to put away the glitter, because it’s time to pull out the punches!

Yep, today’s card share is a sweet and simple punch card.  Punch art is one of my most popular stampin’ events… those classes always fill up fast.  Today we are using the 2-1/2″ and 1-3/4″ circle punches, the owl punch and the 1-3/4″ scallop punch.

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Again, I began with the “Witches Brew” Designer Series Paper (I’m trying to keep your supplies to a minimum, by using the items over and over).   I matted that with a piece of Pumpkin Pie and backed it with Basic Black.

The tree limb was cut (free handed that one) out of Chocolate Chip cardstock and then embossed with the “Woodgrain” embossing folder.

The moon is easy … punch a 2-1/2″ circle then sponge the edges to create some depth to the paper.

Next I punched out the owl.  To create his wings, I punched a 1-3/4″ circle and cut it in half.  Then I used the scallop punch to create the points on his wings … a small single circle punch would work too.  I just lined up the point where the straight edge meets the curved edge and punched 2 scallops…. then I line up 1 scallop and punch.  Yes, it’s a bit tedious but it looks cool.  If you have an easier way … I would really love to hear how to do it quicker.

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His little smile and teeth were hand cut … it was easy and again, it makes him look cute (not scary like real bats – but that’s a whole other story!)

To finish off the card I added a simple ribbon, the 1/8″ Pumpkin Pie Taffeta Ribbon.

Tomorrow I have another little stampin’ trick up my sleeve, so stop back and check it out.

Thanks for “hangin’ out” with me today!

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EEK … an awesome stampin’ technique!

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Yesterday I kicked off a week-long Halloween project share.  Each day I will share with you some fun, frightening and creative projects.  I also have some new stampin’ techniques and tips for you.  My reason for sharing early … is it will give you time to order any supplies you need to create your own Halloween projects.

Today’s card is a bit more frightening, but not difficult to create at all.

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All you will need is our “Witches Brew” (132185) Designer Series paper, the Black & Orange Stampin’ Glitter (132206), and the “Typeset Alphabet” (127533) Bigz Dies… Oh, and don’t forget your favorite adhesive!

  134925LI prefer the “SNAIL” (104332) Adhesive, however, some of you like to use the Multipurpose Liquid Glue (110755) because it holds so well, and it will work great for this project too.  You will also want the “Silicone Craft Sheet” (127853) I think it’s a must have item for all your stampin’ projects.

You see …

The silicone sheet resists any of our adhesives and makes doing this project super simple!  I just run my Snail Adhesive over the cut out alphabet, then cover it with glitter.  Viola … that easy!  This will work great for you glue lovers too.

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Here’s a great stampin’ tip and cost saver, for those of you who make multiple cards… To create the “glitter paper” look underneath the Designer Series paper skull, I just ran my Snail adhesive around the edges, then covered it with our glitter.  No need to paint or die your Silver Glitter paper … just “snail” and stick your glitter!    Glitter lovers rejoice!

Now, for a peek inside …

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I used the “Halloween Hello” stamp set to wish my recipient a Halloween greeting  but it seems my little friend is a bit shy and isn’t going to show you at this time.  Just click on any of the “highlighted” stamp sets or accessories to view them.

Hope you enjoyed the card and stampin’ tips I’ve shared today.  Let me know what you think about them … I’d love to hear from you.  Sharing on a blog is much quieter than my classes … I miss the oooohs and aaaahs!  lol

Have a wonderful day,

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Halloween Kick-off …

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

Hope you are enjoying this beautiful Sunday.

Can you believe that September is almost over, where does the time go?!  The passing of September means one thing … Halloween is just around the corner.  Those of you, who know me, know that I love Halloween.  It appears I’m not the only one, as it is the second most celebrated / decorated holiday of the year (second only to Christmas).

On that note, I want to celebrate Halloween all this week with fun and frightening projects with you.  Since it is Sunday … nothing too scary.  In fact, it’s fun … you won’t believe where these cute little pumpkins came from!

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Get out your Holiday catalog and turn to page 25 … You got it!  I used the “Snow Day” stamp set to create my jack-o-lanterns!

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Oh yes … you can see it now, can’t you!  Isn’t that awesome.  How cute is that!  I drew the faces and the vines onto my pumpkins … too easy.   Now … that is a versatile stamp set!

I also used the new Chalk Marker and some glitter to highlight the facial features (eyes, nose, & mouth) and the Argyle Embossing Folder to create some fun texture.

Did You Know?

The original jack-o’-lanterns were carved from turnips, potatoes or beets.     (From the History Channel)

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Every October, carved pumpkins peer out from porches and doorsteps in the United States and other parts of the world. Gourd-like orange fruits inscribed with ghoulish faces and illuminated by candles are a sure sign of the Halloween season. The practice of decorating “jack-o’-lanterns”—the name comes from an Irish folktale about a man named Stingy Jack—originated in Ireland, where large turnips and potatoes served as an early canvas. Irish immigrants brought the tradition to America, home of the pumpkin, and it became an integral part of Halloween festivities.

So just a little fun and trivia for you today.  Thanks for stopping by!

I’ll have some hauntingly fun cards for you this week, so make sure you stop back.

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Simple Holiday Layout …

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

I missed you yesterday!  I spent the day with my granddaughter, something we have not done in quite a while… it was a good day!

So … today I am going to share with you, two holiday cards created with the same template (or layout).  I have used this layout on another card and just love it!  I find most of my stampin’ audience loves simple but pretty cards.

Life is so busy now days, that simplicity seems to be the norm.  However, you will soon see that you do not have to give up beauty to create simple cards.

First is my “Celebrate Halloween” card …

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I used the “Halloween Bash” stamp set and the “Witches Brew” Designer Series paper (132185), both found on page 21 of the Holiday Catalog.

The pumpkins were created by punching 3 circles each of the 1″ circle punch (119869) and the 1/2″ circle punch (119868).  You will find both of the punches on page 182 of our Idea Book & Catalog.  Next, I sponged the edges of the circles to create dimension, then layered them.  I used “Tangerine Tango” ink and cardstock.  Then I just drew the little faces on the assembled pumpkins.

The greeting was created by using my markers directly onto the stamp – omitting the words I did not want to use, thus creating the simple greeting of “Celebrate Halloween”.  You can use this technique on any stamp.

The banner for both my cards today were created from a 4-1/2″ x 2-1/4″ piece of designer or glimmer paper.   I like the size fits well with this layout.

You will also notice that I have used the “Envelope Liner Framelit Dies” (132172) on both of my projects today.  These are found on page 37 of the Holiday catalog.

Here’s my second card “Joy to the World” …

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I used the stamp set “Joy to the World” which you can find on page 24 of the Holiday Catalog, I have used this set many times already and it’s just September!  I’m gearing up for my holiday classes!

Next I chose the beautiful “Champagne Glimmer” paper (127885) found in the Idea book & Catalog.  I think the glimmer papers add a touch of elegance to any card… I just simply cannot resist these beautiful papers (comes in three colors: Red, Silver and the Champagne).  I teamed it up with the Early Espresso and Very Vanilla cardstock … LOVE this combination of color.

To add some extra flair and texture to my card, I embossed the background with the “Petals of Plenty” (116824) Folder on page 191.  Then created little flowers with the “Boho Blossom” Punch (119858) on page 183.  I think they coordinate nicely together!  Then top it off with the beautiful “Pearls” (119247) on page 171.  They really do complete the card.

I hope you enjoyed today’s cards created with the simple layout of a banner, greeting, and a bit of embellishing!  I would love to see what you can create with this layout.

Enjoy the wonderful weekend.

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It’s All About the Candy!

Hello Stampin’ Friends,

It’s Monday again… and we start another week.  I spent the entire weekend creating and cutting Christmas cards for my upcoming Stamp Camp.  I know, it sounds crazy but now is the perfect time to get a sneak peek and your hands on all the new Christmas sets and accessories in the Holiday catalog.

In keeping with the Holiday catalog, I created a cute card for you today.  It is not “Christmas” but yet another fun holiday …. Halloween!  I just have to share another Halloween idea, I enjoy it too much.

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Today’s card uses the stamp set “Halloween Hello” and the “Witches Brew” Designer Series Paper.  Love the paper … I think I’m going to frame this sheet and take it down to the candy store with me!  What do you think about that idea!

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I really was thinking about the candy shop when I was creating this card.  I just completed my first two weeks there.  The card was really simple to create, something that many of my stampin’ friends (customers) appreciate.  Everyone is so busy, quick and simple is always a good thing.  Don’t worry … I’ll share some “embellished” card samples too.

The color pallet came from the Witches Brew designer paper shown below: Summer Starfruit, Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black and I switched it from Very Vanilla to the Whisper White.  I wanted my candy to “pop”.134925LI have to share with you a fun technique that I love to do… “color” my rhinestones!  As long as you have a “Sharpie” … you can have any color rhinestones you want.  I must say, I really do like black rhinestones!  It’s a fun, inexpensive embellishment.  You can also color the pearls too!   I’m telling you – you will fall in love with this technique.

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Here is a list of the ingredients used for the card.  To make ordering easier, you can just click on the item number and it will take you to that page.  Or you may contact me, I would be happy to help you with your stampin’ needs.

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Halloween Hello Stamp Set – Wood / $18.95

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Halloween Hello Stamp Set – Clear / $14.95

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Witches Brew Designer Series Paper / $10.95
119246 Rhinestones – Basic Jewels / $4.95
119253 1/8” Taffeta Ribbon –  Pumpkin Pie / $5.95
119261 1/8” Taffeta Ribbon – Basic Black / $5.95
122344  Postage Stamp Punch / $15.95

Hope you had a wonderful weekend.  I’ll see you back here tomorrow for another fun card!

Have an awesome Monday!

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Great new product announcements …

Hello stampin’ friends,

Happy Sunday to you …

I am really excited to share with you the release of the new “Stampin’ Trimmer Rotary Addition and blades”.  You can find them on page 176 and 177 of the Idea book and Catalog or the Holiday catalog – pg. 24.

I watched the demonstration of the rotary additions at convention and new right then and there that I just had to have these … remember that “deckle” scissors we used to have, well the “tiny wave” cutting blade will be just as much fun, and easier!!

I have included the Stampin’ Up! training video for you to watch.  You’ll not only hear about the new rotary additions, but a few reasons why the new trimmer is a must have tool for your stampin’ and scrappin’ collection.

I have included the order numbers along with the descriptions.  To make your ordering easier … you can click on the order number in the table below to order these items or CLICK HERE to go to the Stampin’ Trimmer page of my on-line store.

129407

Stampin’ Trimmer Rotary Addition / $12.95
* Includes rotary track and handle and a straight-edge blade

129408 Straight Stampin’ Trimmer Rotary Cutting Blades / $5.95
129409 Tiny Wave Stampin’ Trimmer Rotary Cutting Blade / $3.95
129410 Small Scallop Stampin’ Trimmer Rotary Cutting Blade / $3.95
131375 Stampin’ Trimmer Replacement Cutting Mat / $3.95
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Perforating Stampin’ Trimmer Rotary Cutting Blade / $3.95

Yesterday I posted the adorable “Halloween Banner”… today I am sharing the Stampin’ Up! video showing you how you can make the banner.  It includes great tips (like the Silicone pad) for hot gluing your project.  I love the Silicone pad – I use it when I’m adhering thin strips of cardstock or ribbon to my projects, it keeps the “snail” off my workstation.

I have included the order numbers for the banner to make your ordering easier.  FYI … they also have a Christmas banner!

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Build a Banner Simply Created Kit / $19.95
132698 Halloween Banner Simply Created Accessory Kit / $9.95
132699  Banner Simply Created (Refill) Kit / $9.95

To view both kits and the accessory kits … CLICK HERE and it will take you directly to the page.  Thank you.

I hope you enjoyed today’s video tutorials and new product release.  There’s so much more to show you … keep coming back, I have more for you.

Have a great day!

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All it takes is one little stamp …

Happy Sunday Sampers!

So yesterday you may have noticed that my post was a bit late… I held back my post until after our Star’s team meeting (my downline – the ladies I have brought into Stampin’ Up!).  My Star’s team actually got to make the Christmas cards that I posted as a “sneak peek” on my blog yesterday.  (I will be sharing the swap cards from our meeting later in this post)

I had my team make the cards so they could take this “class” back to their stampin’ groups.  Besides business tips, my intention is to give my downline useful tools to build a successful business.   Success means different things to different members.  Some of my group are hobbiest and use their income to remain active and have fun stamping, others like a little extra spending money, and some (like me) are building a business while having fun!

This year, as we celebrate Stampin’ Up!s 25th anniversary, I always think of the reasons I have stayed in this business for over 13 years.  We all know they have the highest quality products, and great stamp sets, however … I’m still here because of the dedication Shelli (Co-founder and CEO of Stampin’ Up!) has for giving back and the friendships I have made.

Susan Miller said it best at convention this year; “Your customers become friends, your downline become your sisters, and your fellow demonstrators become your family!”  I can’t tell you how many wonderful people I have met, and building these relationships with all of you is just truly amazing and brings so much joy into my life.

I would like to introduce to you … my friend, Connie Sylvester.  I met Connie on “cruise” (our incentive trip).  It was funny, because we (Eileen and I) kept running into them everywhere we went!  Then at convention … then another cruise!  Now … we’re cruise buddies & friends!  Please take a moment and watch the video.  She will describe in this video how stamping is making a difference in her community.

It is amazing that something as simple as a single stamp and an ink pad can make a difference in someones life.  It’s made a difference in mine.  I love what this company represents, I love the friends that I’ve made.  If you are interested in seeing how Stampin’ Up! could fit in your life… contact me.  (lindaluvs2stamp@aol.com)

As promised … here are the swap cards that were shared at my Star’s meeting yesterday.  Enjoy.

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I hope you enjoyed today’s post.  I can’t help but share all that Stampin’ Up! brings to my life.  How has it changed yours? Please share with a comment.

Just remember … All it takes is one little stamp 🙂

Have an awesome Sunday!

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August Best of 25 Stamp Set & Card

Hello Stampin’ Friends!

I was excited, as you can image, when I saw the Best of 25 flyer for August…   I’m a bit of a Halloween fanatic, but never really expected Stampin’ Up! to release the best of 25 Halloween!  But here it is, and it has some of my favorites too!

I love the house and the tree in this set, so today I’m going to share with you a card I created using the tree.

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For our 25-year anniversary, Stampin’ Up! is bringing back some of their favorite stamp images from the last quarter century and combining them into 12 sets, which will release— one set per month—during 2013. Even better, along with some great classic images, each “Best of” set will also include a never-before-seen image!

 

Hang on to your 25-year proof of purchase sticker, and adhere it to your Stampin’ Up!® collectors card, which is included with each stamp set.  If you don’t have one, let me know … I will get one to you right away!

For every six Best Of sets you buy, you can send in your collectors card for a FREE set of your choice valued up to $14.95! Must be redeemed by April 30, 2014

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If you click on the “Shop Now” button, it will take you to the Halloween section.

When you get to the Halloween items, check out the banner … Isn’t that cool.  I just may have to create that for the Halloween party this year.

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I used the “masking” technique to create the moon…. then sponged the sky with Elegant Eggplant and Night of Navy ink.  I stamped all images with the black StazOn.

The greeting is from the stamp set “Halloween Bash” found on page 21 of the Holiday Catalog.  After stamping it, I cut off the “celebrate” then the “halloween” … leaving a bit of the “crawly” so I could adhere the “celebrate” over the top.  Hope that made sense!  lol

I don’t know what it is about Halloween, but I really do enjoy the holiday!  Must be the spooky movies I watched as a kid.  Feel free to share you thoughts about Halloween, or this card!  Thanks.

Have a wonderful day ~

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Gettin’ ready … Halloween is just around the corner!

Hello Stampin’ Friends ~

A bit of a chill in the air this morning in Wisconsin … almost feels like fall.  Which brings me to our card today – Halloween.

For those of you who have been stampin’ with me awhile, you know that Halloween is one of my favorite holidays!  I think it’s just fun, and I love seeing kids dressed up… makes for so many wonderful memories!

Today’s card is wishing you a Halloween Hello from the stamp set “Halloween Hello” found in the Holiday Catalog on page 21.  There a so many cute stamps included in this set, but I chose the bats for this one.  I’m OK with bats as long as they are on my cards and NOT in my house!  Ewwww… the stories I could tell.

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This card as quite easy to make, begin with the Masking Technique, then sponge on the color.  I used Daffodil Delight, Pumpkin Pie, Elegant Eggplant and Basic Black.  I did stamp the bats with the Black StazOn (my favorite black ink).

Hope you can see the “glitter” on the bats… Oh my, Stampin’ Up! has glitter for us Halloween fanatics!   You get both the Black and Orange Ultrafine Glitters!   I think my bats may have turned out better (glitter wise) if I had used the Heat & Stick powder … but, I actually stamped my bats first and then masked and sponged.

I stamped the Halloween Hello greeting from my mask… love the clear stamps for that!  Then put the mask in the 1″ circle punch and punched it smaller.  I used the 1-1/4 circle punch again (original mask size – for moon) and punched a Pumpkin Pie mat for the greeting.

Couldn’t make a card without some noticeable texture, so a added a touch of pumpkin pie under the stamped piece and embossed it with the Woodgrain folder.

Here is a list of ingredients that I used to create today’s card:  If you click on the item number, it will take you right to my store page, and you can get a better look at the product.

 ITEM

 PRICE

 DESCRIPTION

 131718

 $18.95

Halloween Hello – WOOD

 131721

 $14.95

Halloween Hello – CLEAR

 132206

 $7.95

Black / Orange Stampin’ Glitter

 100425

 $4.50

2-Way Glue Pen

 119868

 $12.95

1” Circle Punch

 109861

 $15.95

1-1/4” Circle Punch

 104199

 $99.95

BigShot

 127821

 $7.95

Woodgrain Embossing Folder

blog insert - shop nowYou may shop anytime, night or day (even in your jammies) with my on-line store.  Don’t forget the Designer Series Paper promotion … Buy 3 – Get 1 FREE!

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Do you love Halloween as much as I do?  Then keep your eye out for an upcoming “Halloween Party”.  We’ll be stampin’ cards & more!

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Enjoy the rest of your weekend and I will see you tomorrow!

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