My Ink Pad

Boys can be Angels too...

2012-01-19T20:51:00.005Z

I made this layout for a class I did at the Tartan Stampers training in September last year, but forgot to show it on my blog - Whoops! It uses retired paper however the layout can still be adapted with other papers. Infact I have scraplifted my own layout a few times (can you tell it's a favourite of mine!) perhaps changing one or two elements. The first time I did it was for a UKS cybercrop with the mystery kit here, then again for a class I designed for the Monopoly UKS cybercrop here and finally for a heritage layour of my grandparents here (it's the 3rd one down).

As I have mentioned in earlier posts this year I just love scrapbooking but unfortunately I haven't done much layouts for a while. As I looked through my album recently I realised just how much I have missed doing it.....fingers crossed that I will find more time this year!!

The photograph is of my two boys taken in November 2010.
(For some reason the black and white photograph has turned purplish in the photo below)

Please let me know if you would like a copy of the instructions for creating this layout.

Thanks for looking..x

So Many Smiles .......

2012-01-15T12:22:00.001Z

Another scrapbook layout, this time using a photo of my two boys Andrew (11) and Peter (8). I knew I wanted to create a layout with white space with a touch of colour. To achieve this look I opted to use a plain sheet of Whisper White 12 x 12 cardstock for the background which is perfect for stamping on to. To add some colour I cut strips of Designer Series Paper from the paper packs and stamped with stamps from the French Foliage set. The spot effect was created by inking through a scrap piece of sequin waste.

Materials used:

Card: Whisper White 12" x 12"

Designer Series Paper: Elegant Eggplant, Pacific Point, Rich Razzleberry, Night of Navy

Ink: Elegant Eggplant, Pacific Point, Rich Razzleberry, Night of Navy

Marker: Pacific Point, Night of Navy

Stamps; French Foliage, Petite Pairs

Tools: Spritzer

Thanks for looking....x

In the words of Britney Spears....

2012-01-07T20:16:00.001Z

......Whoops I've done it again! ..... neglected my blog that is LOL

I've been very busy in the past few months and unfortunately my blog has had to suffer as a result. Anyway I am back today with a scrapbook layout that I made today that is going in to my parents' family scrapbook album. My dad was 60 five years ago and my sisters and I made him a scrabook album that has a whopping 80 odd pages in it! We added to it two years ago when my mum turned 60 and next Friday my dad will be 65 so we are again updating it with more recent photographs. The album has photographs dating as far back as the early 1900s.
When my dad received it he was emotional and blown away by it - he said that it was the BEST present he has EVER received!!

Before I became an independent demonstrator for Stampin' Up! I used to scrapbook more than I made cards however that balance shifted when I discovered how easy it was to create cards. This year however I am determined to get "back in to" scrapbooking!!

The photograph in the layout is of me when I turned 40 in September last year. Everything that I used is Stampin' Up! (the spiral notebook punch is however retired now). I have used two stamp sets both of which really lend themselves to scrapbooking.

The embellishment was made by scoring a strip of DSP every 0.5mm and folding in to an accordian then securing the edges.

The flourish stamp from the Everything Eleanor stamp set is perfect for softening the page and adding a focal feature.

It is hard to see it in the main photograph but I die cut each letter then ran it through the Big Shot with an embossing plate to add texture.

Supplies Used:

Cardstock: Soft Suede, Very Vanilla, Marina Mist

Designer Series Paper: Beau Chateau

Ink and Journalling Pen: Soft Suede

Stamps: Everything Eleanor, Creative Elements

Big Shot: Timeless Type Junior Alphabet, Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder

Punches: 3/4" and 1" Circle Punch

Embellishments: Basic Rhinestones

Thanks for looking....x

The Wait is Over .....

2011-10-01T12:32:00.000+01:00

October the 1st means just one thing in the Stampin' Up calendar!! That's right! The new catalogue has gone live today!!

Click on the picture to view the catalogue or use the link in the right hand bar of this page.

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 19

2011-08-07T16:34:00.001+01:00

The challenge this week over on The Simply Stampin' Challenge Blog is a sketch challenge. I enjoy working with sketches as they provide a springboard to work from. I rotated this week's sketch so that the horizontal strip became vertical and I used ribbon for that element. The ribbon covered the join on the Cherry Cobbler mat as I had to emboss two pieces to fit the base.

Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Cherry Cobbler, Basic Black, Very VanillaInk: Crumb Cake, Cherry Cobbler, Basic BlackStamps: Strength and Hope, Clearly For YouRibbon: Crumb Cake Seam BindingPunches: Scallop Edge BorderDies: Top NoteEmbossing Folder: Vintage WallpaperEmbellishments: Basic Pearls As always thanks for looking....x

Why not treat yourself!!

2011-08-01T15:00:00.004+01:00

Spend £75 on Stampin' Up! products during the month of August (or host a £250 workshop) and receive this wonderful exclusive gift from Stampin' Up!

Your gift includes a beautiful, exclusively-designed cosmetic bag, along with Rich Razzleberry 1 1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, and a 24 piece Clip Assortment.

I am going to go through my very long wish list to place a qualifying order so that I can get my hands on this fab freebie!! I really, really NEED the cosmetic bag for holding .....Stampin' Up! stuff of course!!

Contact me to place your order today!

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 18

2011-07-30T11:50:00.002+01:00

Head on over to the Simply Stampin' Challenge Blog where the theme this week is Photo Love.

I chose to decorate a plain wooden photo frame from Tesco that I painted with cream acrylic paint before decorating.

Ink: Baja Breeze, Not Quite Navy, Soft Suede, Early Espresso, Sahara Sand

Stamps: French Foliage, Artistic Etchings

Chipboard: On-Board Alphabet Soup

Designer Series Paper: Elegant Soiree

Tools: Spritzer with Soft Suede Marker

Thanks for looking...x

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 17

2011-07-23T16:58:00.002+01:00

Don't faint!! I am back in blogland after a long absence. There has been so much going on in the past couple of months that I just couldn't juggle it all and had to drop the crafting for a while. The good news is that I now have a full time permanent job!! I had an interview in June and was successful!! I am going to be teaching in the same school that I started at 19 years ago. To be honest it feels like I have never left though as I have worked there on a temporary basis since giving up my full time job in 2000 when I stopped to have family. I love teaching and the timing is perfect for going back. I am soooo excited, it felt great spending the first week of my holidays getting my classroom organised and set up the way that I want it.

I know I am a bit late in posting this week's Simply Stampn design team entry but I was in the mood to be creative today and had the time too. This week's challenge is a colour combo and uses the colours Poppy parade, Real Red, Certainly Celery and Whisper White. Now I would never have thought of using Poppy Parade and Real Red together but guess what? I love it!! I also got a chance to play with my new favourite stamp set French Foliage. I love the script, ink blots and Paris stamp which are perfect for creating an aged and distressed look.

Cardstock: Real Red, Poppy Parade, Certainly Celery, Whisper White

Designer Series Paper: Certainly Celery (paper stack)

Speciality Paper: Vellum

Ink: Real Red, Poppy Parade, Certainly Celery

Stamps: French Foliage

Sizzix Dies: Beautiful Butterflies

Embossing Folders: Vintage Wallpaper, Square Lattice

Ribbon: 1/2" Real Red Poly-Stitched

Thanks for looking

xxx

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 10

2011-06-04T08:00:00.003+01:00

It's a sketch challenge this week over at The Simply Stampin' Challenge Blog. Why not pop over and see the other Design team's creations and join in!!

I have made a bright coloured birthday card using the fabulous two step owl punch.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Real Red, Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla

Designer Series Paper: Play Date

Stamps: Party this Way

Markers: Old Olive, Real Red

Ribbon: Real Red 1 1/4" striped grosgrain, Old Olive 5/8" grosgrain

Punches: Two Step Owl Punch, Fancy Flower Extra Large (to make the scallops)

The Sketch

Thanks for looking....x

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 9

2011-05-28T08:00:00.002+01:00

This week the challenge over on the Simply Stampin' Challenge Blog is the theme

FLORAL FRENZY

I have used my trusty Sizzix dies to make this card including the card base.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla

Designer Series Paper: Springtime Vintage

Sizzix Die: Scallop Circle, Fun Flowers

Embossing Folders: Vintage Wallpaper, Perfect Polks Dots

Stamps: Four Frames, Basic Phrases

Ink: Baja Breeze, Crumb Cake

Ribbon: 5/8 " Very Vanilla Satin

As always thanks for looking.....x

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 8

2011-05-21T08:00:00.004+01:00

The challenge this week at Simply Stampin' is a colour challenge and the combo is the very refreshing Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive, Daffodil Delight and Very Vanilla.

I have made a small handbag style cover which could be used to hold a small gift or a bag of sweets etc. Last night I was at a workshop and the guests made this as their make and take in a different colour combo of Baja Breeze, Rose Red, Basic Gray and Very Vanilla - both are lovely, Everyone enjoyed the finished result.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Daffodile Delight, Very Vanilla

Ink: Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive

Stamps: Simply Said

Sizzix Die: Tope Note, Beautiful Wings

Sizzix Embossing Folder: Vintage Wallpaper

Ribbon: 5/8" Very Vanilla Satin Ribbon

Punches: 1 3/4 x 7/8" Oval Large

I do hope that you get a chance to join in this week as I love seeing everyone's interpretations of the challenges.

As always thanks for looking.......x

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 7

2011-05-14T08:00:00.007+01:00

This week the challenge over at Simply Stampin' is a sketch challenge. Do pop over and see what the design team created and hopefully you will be inspired to join in too.

I love working with sketches as they cut out half the work!! Using this week's sketch I created a scrapbook layout instead of a card. I turned the sketch on its side and moved the sentiment to suit the layout.

To make the flowers I used the Faux Mother of Pearl technique by adding Frost White Shimmer paint to white glossy cardstock using a piece of scrunched up cling film. Once dry I used a brayer to add Rose Red ink over the top. I then cut the flowers using the Sizzix Fun Flowers Die and layered on top with stampin dimensionals.

The little girl in the photograph is my niece Abigail.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Rose Red 12 x 12, Very Vanilla, Pear Pizzazz, Glossy White

Ink: Rose Red

Designer Series Paper: Sweet and Sour Speciality

Stamps: Four Frames

Sizzix Dies: Fun Flowers, Little Leaves, Beautiful Wings

Punches: Decorative Label, 3/4" Circle

Ribbon: 1/2" Pear Pizzazz Stitched-Poly Ribbon

Other: Frost White Shimmer Paint

Tools: Brayer, Rose Red Marker Pen (journalling)

The sketch

As always thanks for looking.....x

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 6

2011-05-07T08:00:00.006+01:00

This week the challenge over at the Simply Stampin' Challenge Blog is the theme

Buttons and Bows

Supplies:

Cardstock: Rich Razzleberry, Basic Black, Very Vanilla

Ink: Rich Razzleberry, Rose Red, Pale Plum, Old Olive, Basic Black

Designer Series Paper: Newsprint, Old Olive (from the Brights Paper Stack)

Stamps: Because I Care (Level 1 hostess set)

Punches: Scallop Trim Border, Oval Large

Ribbon: 5/8" Basic Black Satin

Embellishments: Rich Razzleberry Button (Brights), Linen Thread, Dazzling Diamonds

I would also like to say a special congratulations to Niki , who is another DT member on the Simply Stampin' Challenge Blog. She gave birth 7 weeks early, on Wednesday, to a beautiful baby girl, Sophie Ann.

You can see some photographs of her here.

I hope that you can play along!

As always thanks for looking......x

And the winner of the owl punch is.....

2011-05-02T15:02:00.002+01:00

Diane (Number 7)

CONGRATULATIONS!!

I'm thinkin "Mrs Swoops"

Diane xx

p.s lovin yer new look

23 March 2011 21:47

Thanks to all those that entered the draw. I loved your choice of names! I liked so many of them that I think that my owl will have a lot of middle names LOL

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 5

2011-04-30T08:00:00.002+01:00

Gosh I can't believe how quickly this week has flown past (again!)

This week the challenge over on the Simply Stampin Challenge blog is back to a colour theme and the combination this time is Always Artichoke, Rich Razzleberry, Basic Grey and Whisper White.

I have made a quick and simple card this week as I am guilty of leaving to the last minute (oops!) however it does go to show that you don't need hours to create an effective card. I had a workshop on Thursday evening and the ladies made this card for their make and take but with the combo of Basic Grey, Old Olive, Melon Mambo and Whisper White.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Basic Grey, Rich Razzleberry, Always Artichoke, Whisper White

Ink: Always Artichoke

Stamps: Vintage Vogue, Cheers and Wishes

Punches: Scallop Trim Border, Decorative Label Punch

Embossing Folder: Vintage Wallpaper

Embellishments: Basic Rhinestones

As always thanks for looking. I do hope that you can take part.....x

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 4

2011-04-23T08:00:00.004+01:00

Gosh I can't believe that the Simply Stampin Challenge Blog is at week 4 already! In weeks 1, 2 and 3 the challenges were sketch, colour then theme so this means that this week we are back to a sketch challenge. I love sketches especially when I am struggling for inspiration as using a sketch for the layout cuts out half the work!

I have followed the sketch quite closely except I chose not to use stars as embellishments.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Basic Black, Riding Hood Red, Very Vanilla

Designer Series Paper: Love Letter

Ink: Basic Black, Riding Hood Red

Stamps: Artistic Etchings, Notably Ornate, Heard from the Heart

Ribbon: 1 1/4" Black Striped Grosgrain

Punches: Scallop Circle, Boho Blossoms

Embellishments: Rhinestone Brad

....and the sketch

I have really enjoyed looking at everyone's creations and hope that you can join in this week.

Remember this week is the last week to enter to be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize that's up for grabs!!

Fast & Fabulous Stamp set
In Colour Patterns paper pack (6x6)
In Colour Ribbon Bundle
2 x A5 card in each of the In Colours
A selection of the new Jumbo Buttons

As always thanks for looking.....x

Easter Wishes Card

2011-04-19T21:23:00.001+01:00

Another Easter project, this time a step card. Please see this post for instructions for making the Bunny Rabbit Punch Art.

Supplies:

Cardstock: So Saffron, Marina Mist, Pretty in Pink, Whisper White, Old Olive

Ink: Old Olive, Marina Mist, Pretty in Pink

Punches: Ornament Extra-Large, Oval Extra-Large, Oval Large, 1/2" Circle,

Scallop Oval Extra-Large (for the eyes), Decorative Label Punch

Stamps: Trendy Trees, Big Bold Birthday (both used for the background of the card and eggs), Occasional Greetings

Ribbon: 5/8" Marina Mist Satin Ribbon

As always thanks for looking......x

Bunny Rabbit Punch Art Instructions

2011-04-19T21:12:00.003+01:00

As promised here are some step by step instructions for making the bunny rabbit that I used on my Easter treat box here.

Click on image for a closer view.

Supplies:

Punches: Ornament Extra-Large, Oval Extra-Large, Oval Large, 1/2" Circle,

Scallop Oval Extra-Large (for the eyes)

Cardstock: Whisper White, Pretty in Pink, Basic Black

Pens: Basic Black Marker, White Gel Pen

Instructions:

1. Ornament Punch - 2 in white, Extra Large Oval Punch - 1 in white, Oval Large Punch - 4 in white, 1/2" Circle Punch - 2 in white, Oval Punch - 4 in pink, Scallop Oval Punch - 1 in black, a regular hole punch to punch a circle for the nose in pink

2.Trim off the top and bottom of the ornament punch, rounding the edges

3. Glue one ornament punch on top of the other to form the head and tummy

4. Glue each ear behind the head

5. Glue the pink inner ears on the front of the ears

6. Put two layers of Stampin Dimensionals on the tummy

7. Glue the pink feet on to the white ovals. Place slightly lower than centre and using the black marker draw in claws

8. Put the feed on to the dimensionals

9. Glue the large oval under the tummy for the bunny's tail

10. Using dimensionals glue on the small circles for the bunny's cheeks

11. Glue on the nose

12. Glue on the eyes and draw in highlights with white gel pen, lashes and whiskers with black gel pen.

After I had saved my tutorial and was closing Photoshop down I realised that I had forgotten to add two of the photos. Unfortunately being up to my eyes writing report cards for school means that I don't have time to redo the tutorial (at the moment) so I have added the two photos and instructions below for the eyes.

Cut two tear drop shapes for the eyes

Glue the eyes on to the bunny's face

As always thanks for looking.......x

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 3

2011-04-16T08:00:00.005+01:00

If you have joined me from the Simply Stampin Challenge blog then welcome but if not then why not pop over there now and see this week's challenge.

The challenge this week is a themed challenge which of course given the time of the year is EASTER!

A big part of Easter in our house is of course Easter Eggs! I love the Cadbury's Mini Eggs and so what better project for me to create than a secret place to hide my eggs ......ahem I mean a lovely handcrafted jar to store the eggs!

It does actually make a good hidey place as my two boys have walked past it plenty times and not really noticed what is inside!! I wonder how long that will last!!

Supplies:

Cardstock: Very Vanilla, Rose Red, Basic Black, Pear Pizzazz, Baja Breeze

Ink: Rose Red

Stamps: Something To Celebrate (L2 Hosetss Mini Catalogue)

Designer Series Paper: Springtime Vintage

Sizzix Dies: Circle Scallop

Punches: Eyelet Border, Ornament Extra-Large, Oval Extra-Large, Oval Large, 1/2" Circle, Scallop Oval Extra-Large (for the eyes), Boho Blossoms, Modern Label Extra-Large

Ribbon: 1/2" Rose Red Seam Binding

Embellishments: Basic Pearls

I will be back later with a tutorial for making the bunny but all the parts use SU punches except the bunny's nose which just uses a regular stationery hole punch. The bunny's eyes are made by cutting two tear drop shapes from the scallop oval punched shape.

Once the bunny was assembled I made a little triangular rest for it to lean against.

I hope that you can join us in this week's challenge, remember there is a fantastic prize up for grabs too!!

As always thanks for looking......x

Spring is in the Air......

2011-04-14T09:39:00.004+01:00

This card has a lovely spring feel to it. Daffodil Delight is such a happy colour!

Recently I have been searching for challenge blogs as the extra inspiration they give is great to get me started.

I have created this card combining three challenges - Mojo Monday (MOJO186) which is a sketch challenge Color Throwdown (CTD137) which is a colour challenge and Stampin Royalty (SR#67) which is a theme challenge.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Certainly Celery, Tempting Turquoise, Daffodil Delight,

Whisper White

Ink: Tempting Turquoise, Certainly Celery

Designer Series Paper: Greenhouse Gala

Stamps: Vintage Vogue

Punches: Scallop Edge Border

Ribbon: 3/8" Certainly Celery Taffeta

Embellishments: Basic Pearls

Other: Baker's Twine from my craft stash

***********************

The sketch from Mojo Monday

The colour challenge from The Color Throwdown

The theme from Stampin Royalty

SPRING HAS SPRUNG!!!!!

************************

As always thanks for looking.....x

....more.....Less Is More Week 10

2011-04-13T16:00:00.002+01:00

Wow these cards are certainly quick to do! In under 15 minutes I have made a new card, photgraphed, resized, added my watermark and blogged! Definitely no excuses for anyone not getting a hand crafted birthday card from me LOL

Anyway I am back with another card because I felt that perhaps the cupcake was too strong a focus. I don't have any teeny cupcakes but I did stamp a smaller image - this time a present.
Mind you after looking at both cards I think that this type of card and sentiment probably wouldn't work as well with a smaller image anyway.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Whisper White

Ink: Baja Breeze, Rose Red

Marker: Rose Red

Stamps: Big Bold Birthday, Heard from the Heart

Embellishments: Basic Rhinestones

As always thanks for looking....x

Less Is More Week 10

2011-04-13T15:29:00.002+01:00

The challenge over at Less Is More this week is a One Layer challenge with a sentiment focus.

My sister Karen's birthday is on Monday so I decided to make her card using this challenge. Just like me she loves cupcakes and sweet things so choosing a theme was easy!

I chose a large sentiment stamp for this challenge however I think I may have to redo it as the cupcake looks like the focus ...............I'll be back LOL

Supplies:

Cardstock: Whisper White

Ink: Baja Breeze, Rose Red, Blushing Bride

Marker: Rose Red

Stamps: Big Bold Birthday, Heard from the Heart

Embellishments: Basic Rhinestones

****************

There is still time to take part in this week's Simply Stampin' Challenge. I woud love if you would support this new challenge blog by taking part. Remember there is a prize to be won!

As always thanks for looking.....x

Springtime Vintage

2011-04-11T20:30:00.005+01:00

The Springtime Vintage papers are truly beautiful papers - perfect for any Cath Kidston fans!

I must admit to not being a big Cath Kidston fan myself however I can see that changing as I instantly fell in love with these papers. I think that their name Springtime Vintage is very appropriate!

I have a card class next week and want to use these papers as part of the class and am busy making up samples with them. Today however I made two cards as orders for friends and would like to show these.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla, Pear Pizzazz

Designer Series Paper: Springtime Vintage

Ink: Soft Suede (marker pen)

Stamps: Occasional Quotes (L3 hosetss)

I used the words for you from the sentiment just for you ...

Sizzix Dies: Beautiful Butterflies

Embossing Folders: Perfect Polka Dots, Square Lattice

Ribbon: 1/2" Pear Pizzazz Seam Binding

Punches: Scallop Trim Border, 1 3/8" x 5/8" Oval

Embellishments: Perfect Pearls

Supplies:

Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Rose Red, Very Vanilla

Designer Series Paper: Springtime Vintage

Ink: Soft Suede (marker pen)

Stamps: Occasional Quotes (L3 hosetss)

I used the words for you from the sentiment just for you ...

Sizzix Dies: Fun Flowers

Embossing Folders: Perfect Polka Dots

Ribbon: 1/2" Rose Red Seam Binding, Linen Thread

Punches: Scallop Trim Border, 1 3/8" x 5/8" Oval

Embellishments: Perfect Pearls, Springtime Vintage Button

The cards are actually to hold a Stampin' Up gift voucher. I found that an easy way to make a pocket for the voucher was to cut the card slightly longer and fold up the extra then to add a strip of sticky strip inside the long fold. This is instead of adding adhesive to the sides which would result in a narrower pocket. The voucher is gripped in place at the base.

As always thanks for visiting me....x

P.S. Don't forget to enter my giveaway for the chance to win a Stampin' Up! Two Step Owl Punch!

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 2

2011-04-09T08:00:00.001+01:00

A huge thank you to everyone who joined in with the first Simply Stampin Challenge last week. I hope that you were inspired and enjoyed taking part. I really enjoyed visiting each entrant's blog and seeing what they had made although I am glad that I don't have the hard task of choosing the Top 3!

This week the challenge over at Simply Stampin is a colour challenge and the colours to use are:

I really struggled to use these colours together even although funnily enough my entry last week happened to use the pink and burgundy! I tried various cards but just couldn't get the balance of colours to look right. In the end however I decided to use Bravo Burgundy and Wild Wasabi as accents.

The flower was cut using the Fancy Flower punch and then scrunched to break the card fibres. I then carefully peeled each flower apart to give two flowers each with a faux suede look. The flowers were then layered and inked with Bravo Burgundy to add depth.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Pink Pirouette, Very Vanilla, Wild Wasabi, Bravo Burgundy

Ink: Bravo Burgundy

Stamps: Because I Care (L1 Hostess)

Embossing Folder: Vintage Wallpaper

Punches: Fancy Flower Extra Large, Two Step Bird Punch, Boho Blossoms,

Modern Label Extra Large

Embellishments: Very Vanilla Brad

I hope that you can join us for this week's challenge and look forward to seeing your creations. Remember there is a prize to be won....x

A Touch of Red

2011-04-08T09:39:00.001+01:00

The challenge over at Less Is More this week is to use a touch of red. Being on a roll with these circle shaped scallop cards I decided to make another one. I have made another rose from ribbon for this card but this time used a different technique which gives a much fuller rose. I think it looks so lush and rich in red! This card could quite esily be adapted for a Ruby Anniversary or other special occasion.

Close up of the ribbon rose

How the card stands

Supplies:

Cardstock: Basic Black, Real Red

Designer Series Paper: Love Letter

Ink: Basic Black

Stamps:Occasional Quotes (L3 Hostess set)

Sizzix Dies: Scallop Circel

Punches: Scallop Trim Border, Modern Label Extra Large

Ribbon: 5/8" Real Red Satin

Embellishments: Basic Pearls

As always thanks for looking....x

P.S. Don't forget to enter my giveaway for the chance to win a Stampin' Up! Two Step Owl Punch!

Scallop Circle Easel Card

2011-04-07T18:39:00.004+01:00

I really enjoyed making these cards with the Sizzix Scallop Circle Die so decided to try and make an Easel card using the same die. I love how it has turned out and will definitely be making more!

The rosettes were made using Stampin' Up! 5/8" Black Grosgrain ribbon. I loved making these too - they were so easy but look so effective.

This card is for my sister Susan who is 35 tomorrow. Happy Birthday Susan....x

This is how it stands from the side.

A close up of the ribbon rosette

Supplies:

Cardstock: Basic Black, Riding Hood Red

Designer Series Paper: Love Letter

Ink: Basic Black

Stamps:Cheers and Wishes, Fine Flourish

Sizzix Dies: Scallop Circel, Fun Flowers

Punches: Scallop Trim Border, Decorative Label Punch

Ribbon: 5/8" Black Grosgrain

Embellishments: Basic Pearls

As always thanks for looking....x

P.S. Don't forget to enter my giveaway for the chance to win a Stampin' Up! Two Step Owl Punch!

Make a Wish

2011-04-05T16:21:00.006+01:00

I seriously need to stock up on birthday cards as I have over a dozen close family birthdays coming up in next few months ...this includes three sisters in April, one sister and one brother in May!

I made a start today. This card is made using the NEW Sizzix Scallop Die and the EXCLUSIVE Fun Flowers Die which are both available in the new SU mini catalogue.

I folded the card and then cut it using the Scallop Circle Die, avoiding the last few scallops, so that the card would open. I then cut a complete scallop circle in Baja Breeze for the front. The flower cluster was made by cutting two of the small flowers from the Fun Flowers Die in Very Vanilla Cardstock. I then inked the edges in Soft Suede and the centres in Baja Breeze. The centre of the flower was made using small blossoms cut using the Boho Blossoms Punch.

I also used the NEW Seam Binding in my favourite colour Baja Breeze. I just love, love, love this ribbon!!! It is so soft and drapes beautifully!! It is also available in three other colours - Pear Pizzazz, Rose Red and Crumb Cake. I have these colours coming in my next order and can't wait to use them!!!

The inspiration for this card was from Craft Project Central - March Subscription.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla, Soft Suede

Designer Series Paper: Elegant Soiree

Ink: Soft Suede, Baja Breeze

Stamps: Big Bold Birthday

Sizzix Dies: Scallop Circel, Fun Flowers

Punches: Boho Blossoms, Modern Label Extra Large

Ribbon: 1/2" seam Binding Baja Breeze

Embellishments: Basic Pearls

Here's another variation, slightly more distressed.

As always thanks for looking....x

P.S. Don't forget to enter my giveaway for the chance to win a Stampin' Up! Two Step Owl Punch

ILWS Mini Catalogue Blog Hop

2011-04-02T10:00:00.008+01:00

Two posts in one day and the second blog hop for me this month ....and it's only the 2nd LOL .....I am a bit like a bus - nothing for ages then a few all together LOL

Anyway thanks for joining me on the "In Love With Stamping Blog Hop"

I hope you are sitting comfortably and have a large cuppa at hand as this is a marathon blog hop!!! with a whopping 56 blogs to hop around!!! Don't worry though as they have been split in to four more manageable groups. You will find the links to the first blog in each of the four groups at the very end of this post.

If you have arrived at my blog via the blog hop you will have just visited my good friend Elaine and seen her fantastic creations....wasn't that card made with Manhattan flower folder gorgeous! If not then do remember to go back and see her blog too.

Have you had a chance to drool at the new goodies available in the mini catalogue yet? Isn't it FABULOUS that we now have the BIG SHOT available to order? and also 23 dies, of which 17 are EXCLUSIVE to Stampin' Up! Having seen so many wonderful things made with the dies and embossing folders I just know that they are going to be popular. I can't wait to make some scrapbook layouts using them! However for this blog hop I have made some cards, all of which feature one or more of the new products available in the mini catalogue. I have used my favourite Stampin' Up! colour which is Baja Breeze and teamed it with Not Quite Navy.....a beautiful and elegant combination.

Supplies Used:

Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Not Quite Navy, Very Vanilla, Old Olive

Ink: Basic Black, Not Quite Navy

Designer Series Paper: Newsprint, Not Quite Navy (from the Regals Paper Stack)

Stamps: Artistic Etchings

Tools: Spritzer with Baja Breeze Marker Pen

Ribbon: Baja Breeze Seam Binding

Punches: Scallop Trim Border

Supplies Used:

Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla, Old Olive

Ink: Not Quite Navy, Baja Breeze, Old Olive

Designer Series Paper: Not Quite Navy (from the Regals Paper Stack)

Stamps: En Francais, Dotty Dotty

Ribbon: 5/8" Very Vanilla Satin

Sizzix Dies: Beautiful Butterflies

This card was cased from Teneale Williams, a very talented lady from Australia.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Not Quite Navy, Very Vanilla

Ink: Not Quite Navy, Baja Breeze

Stamps: En Francais, Vintage Vogue

Ribbon: 5/8" Very Vanilla Satin

Sizzix Dies: Top Note

Next in the ILWS Blog Hop is the lovely Sarah who has the most gorgeous scrapbook layout to show you.

Here are the links to the first people in each of the groups.
(there are links to every blog in the hop on Erika's sidebar -see group 1 below)
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4

Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to enter my giveaway to try and win a Stampin Up Two Step Owl Punch! ....x

Simply Stampin' Challenge Week 1

2011-04-02T08:00:00.008+01:00

Today is the launch of the Simply Stampin' Challenge blog - a weekly challenge blog for everyone who loves Stampin' Up! products!!!

The challenges are going to rotate around a sketch, a colour combo and a theme. This week's challenge is based on this sketch.

The first thing that popped in to my head when I saw the circle was to use the sweet treat cups. I decided upon making a baby card using the baby rattle from the Something Sweet stamp set. I filled the sweet treat cup with various co-ordinating beads from my crafting stash. It is a lovely tactile card!! Infact a few days ago I showed someone a photo of the card that was on my camera and what a daftie I was as I shook the camera to get the beads to move about! I tell you this, I think I had been playing with the card too much!! LOL

Supplies:

Cardstock: Pink Pirouette, Bravo Burgundy, Whisper White

Designer Series Paper: Pink Pirouette (from the Subtles Paper Stack)

Ink: Bravo Burgundy

Stamps: Something Sweet

Punches: Scallop Edge Border

Ribbon: Blushing Bride 1/2" Stitched Poly Ribbon

Embellishments: Dazzling Diamonds, Sweet Treat Cups

I hope that you join us in taking part in this week's challenge and if you haven't come to my blog from the Simply Stampin' Challenge blog then I encourage you to go back and see what the rest of the design team have been creating. There is also this fantastic PRIZE up for grabs too!!!

Thanks for stopping by....x

Tartan Stampers Mini Catalogue Blog Hop

2011-04-01T08:37:00.004+01:00

The wait is over!!

Stampin' Up! have introduced the BIG SHOT to Europe!! I am soooo excited about this as not only can we now purchase the Big Shot through SU but also numerous new dies and embossing folders - many of which are EXCLUSIVE to Stampin' Up! You can view the mini catalogue online by clicking on the picture on the right hand side.

One of the benefits of being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator is that I get to pre order items from the new catalogue in the run up to the launch. I couldn't wait to get my hands on some of the exclusive dies especially Beautiful Butterflies and Top Note ....oh and I can't forget the gorgeous Manhattan Flower embossing folder!!

I was kept very busy for a few evenings making some cards and would like to share some of them with you today as part of the Tartan Stampers Blog Hop. You have probably arrived at my blog from my upline Dawn but if not then you can go back or catch her blog again at the end of the loop.

All my cards are made using the same colour combo of Baja Breeze (one of my faves!), Old Olive and Not Quite Navy. I just LOVE these colours together. All the cards are very simple to make but look very effective.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Not Quite Navy, Old Olive, Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla

Ink: Not Quite Navy, Old Olive

Stamps: Style Beautiful, Dotty Dotty

Sizzix Dies: Beautiful Butterflies, Top Note

Embossing Folder: Manhattan Flower

Punches: Scallop Trim Border

Embellishments: Basic Rhinestones

Supplies:

Cardstock: Not Quite Navy, Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla

Ink: Not Quite Navy

Stamps: Trendy Trees

Embossing Folder: Manhattan Flower

Punches: Boho Blossoms

Ribbon: 5/8 Very Vanilla Satin

Embellishments: Basic Rhinestones

Supplies:

Cardstock: Not Quite Navy, Baja Breeze

Ink: Not Quite Navy, Baja Breeze

Stamps: Pocket Silhouettes, French Filigree

Sizzix Dies: Top Note

Punches: Scallop Trim Border

Ribbon: 5/8 Very Vanilla Satin

Next up in the blog hop is the lovely Maggie.

Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to enter my prize draw here if you haven't already done so.

Less Is More Week 8

2011-03-29T21:05:00.007+01:00

Pop over to the Less Is More Challenge Blog to see this week's challenge which is a sketch based one.

I chose to make a baby girl card for my best friend who gave birth to a gorgeous girl a few days ago.

I have folded an A4 piece of Whisper White card from Stampin' Up! in to three to make a tall DL card. Folding the card means I get a stronger base.

The front is matted with the same white card that has been embossed with a dotty embossing folder. The card has been matted on to Blushing Bride pink card by SU and finished with a bow tied with the my favourite poly stitched ribbon by SU in matching Blushing Bride. The tag has been stamped with a sentiment from the Tiny Tags stamp set and punched with the small tag punch.

Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to enter my prize draw here if you haven't already done so.

Love Letter Mini Book

2011-03-27T12:49:00.005+01:00

When I saw the new artsy stamp sets and the Love Letter Paper range by Stampin' Up! I knew that I wanted to make them in to a mini book. I have started making one but have yet to finish all the pages inside so watch out for more photos.

I made the 3D flower using the Fancy Flower Punch - I punched three flowers then scrunched each flower to break the fibres in the cardstock. Once the edges started to separate I carefully peeled the card giving two flowers from each punched flower.

I sewed a running stitch along the centre of the ribbon and pulled to gather and give the ruffled effect.

I used the 5" x 5" On Board Journal by Stampin' Up! and the following supplies to make the cover:

Designer Series Paper: Love Lette

Card: Riding Hood Red, Sahara Sand, Basic Black, Very Vanilla

Stamps: Style Beautiful, Notably Ornate, Artistic Etchings

Ink: Basic Black, Sahara Sand

Ribbon: 1 1/4" Black Striped Grosgrain, 5/8" Very Vanilla Satin, 3/8" Real Red Taffeta

Punches: Fancy Flower Extra Large, Oval Extra Large, Boho Blossoms, Eyelet Border, Spiral Border

Embellishments: Basic Rhinestones

Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to enter my prize draw here if you haven't already done so.

Simply Stampin' Challenge Blog

2011-03-24T22:18:00.005Z

Challenge blogs are a great way to find a missing mojo or provide some inspiration for creating cards, scrapbook pages, 3D and gift items as well as other projects.

There is a brand new one starting next week called Simply Stampin' which is going to provide a new challenge every Saturday at 8am. The challenges are going to rotate between a sketch challenge, a colour challenge and a themed challenge.

I am really excited to have been picked to join the design team for this new blog and can't wait to get involved!

I really hope that you will join us each week to take part in the challenges. You can make any project you like and enter the Simply Stampin' Challenge as long as you use one Stampin' Up! image or sentiment and it fits in with the challenge set that week. Entries close at 6pm the evening before the next challenge and the Top 3 will be announced the following day.

The first challenge will go live on Saturday 2nd April and there will be a prize for the winner of the first challenge!!!

If you haven't yet visited the blog then I encourage you to have a look here and become a follower. Don't forget to grab the banner to display on your blog too!!!

A New Look and a Giveaway!

2011-03-19T18:27:00.001Z

I have been on the waiting list for a blog design by Veronica McCollum since the beginning of 2010 but it has been well worth the wait!

I asked Veronica to design me a blog with whimsical images, in particular owls, as that matches me being a teacher. I requested some of my favourite Stampin' Up! colours such as Baja Breeze and Wild Wasabi as well as colours from the Brights Range.

I am absolutely over the moon with my new look. I love the owl in particular and am tickled pink with my blinkie!!! I also love the favicon (the small image of the owl that you can see in the web address or on the tab)

I think, however, that my owl needs a name so have decided to ask my blog readers for suggestions.

I will enter everyone who makes a suggestion / leaves a comment about my new blog in to a prize draw to win a prize. I can't show a picture of the prize as it is something that isn't available until the new SU mini catalogue comes out on the 1st April, but I can promise that you won't be disappointed......one hint is that it is appropriate!!!

To be in with a chance of winning all I ask is that you post your suggestion / comment below, link this post on your blog and become a follower of my blog......feel free to grab my blinkie to display on your blog if you have one too!!

ETA: Now that the mini catalogue is available I can disclose that the winner of this giveaway will win a Stampin' Up! Two Step Owl Punch!! This punch was unavailable to me as a pre-order so I have no samples to show....I too am desperate to get my hands on this little guy!!! I have to say that I am LOVING the owl names so far....do keep them coming!!

The draw will be made on 30th April 2011. (the draw will be made using random.org)

Good luck!

March Frenzy

2011-03-05T10:52:00.006Z

Get great Stampin’ Up! products up to 30 percent off during the March Frenzy sale--1-31 March only!

See here for details....x

Artistic Etchings Cards

2011-03-01T17:43:00.012Z

These cards are all made using Artistic Etchings, one of my favourite stamp sets. I love the arty feel these stamps have.

Stamps: Artistic Etchings, Vintage Vogue (sentiment)

Designer Series Paper: Love Letter

Cardstock: Riding Hood Red, Very Vanilla, Basic Black, Pink Pirouette

Ink: Basic Black

Marker: Riding Hood Red, Sahara Sand

Ribbon: Basic Black Taffeta

Punches: Eyelet Border, Heart large and small, Modern Label

Embellishments: Basic Rhinestones

Tools: Spritzer

Thanks for looking....x

Three Squares Challenge Card 2

2011-02-27T18:52:00.004Z

See post below for details of challenge

Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Tempting Turquoise, Real Red and Whisper White
Inkpad: Chocolate Chip
Designer Series Paper: Play Date
Stamps: Fox and Friends, Afterthoughts
Punches: Square Extra-Large, 1 1/4" Circle, Scallop Border
Embellishments: Real Red 5/8" Satin Ribbon

I have thoroughly enjoyed taking part in this challenge and look forward to the next one. Thanks for stopping by.....x

Three Squares Challenge Card 1

2011-02-27T18:30:00.009Z

A few of my crafting friends have been taking part in weekly challenges from the Less is More Challenge Blog. Each week I have wanted to take part however time always ran away from me and before I knew it the new weekly challenge was posted!! However I have managed not one but two cards for this week's challenge which is to use the recipe - Three Squares.

Cardstock: Basic Grey, Wild Wasabi, Marina Mist and Very Vanilla
Inkpad and Marker: Marina Mist
Stamps: Tiny Tags
Punches: Scallop Trim Border, Square Large and Square Extra-Large
Embellishments: Basic Pearls

Birthday Cards

2011-02-20T20:51:00.013Z

Just popping on quickly to upload pictures of two birthday cards I made recently. Each time I upload new photos from my camera I discover photographs of projects that I have forgotten to blog. I really must try harder! Life is pretty hectic just now as I went back to full time teaching in January and my life seems to revolve around that but I will try :-)

Both of these cards are cased from the current Idea and Catalogue book with slight changes in either size or elements.

Cardstock: Basic Black, Riding Hood Red, Very Vanilla
Designer Patterned Paper: Love Letter
Ink: Basic Black, Sahara Sand
Stamps: Artistic Etchings, Occasional Greetings
Punch: Butterfly Extra Large
Ribbon: Basic Black Striped Grosgrain Ribbon
Embellishments: Basic Rhinestones
Other: Spritzer Tool, Riding Hood Red Marker Pen

Cardstock: Old Olive, Very Vanilla, Soft Suede
Ink: Soft Suede, Crumb Cake
Stamps: Just Believe
Punch: Modern Label Extra Large
Ribbon: Very Vanilla Taffeta
Embellishments: Basic Pearls
Other: Spritzer Tool, Crumb Cake Marker Pen

Thanks for looking.....x

If you would like any information on any of the products I have used then feel free to contact me.

It's SALE-A-BRATION TIME!!!

2010-12-31T18:21:00.014Z

This special time of year means.....

EXCLUSIVE FREE STAMP SETS FOR ALL!

(promotion runs from 30th December 2010 till 28th February 2011)

AS A CUSTOMER - Spend £45 and choose a FREE stamp set of your choice, there are four fabulous ones to choose from see below.

HOST A WORKSHOP - Host a Stampin'Up workshop with me and if the total sales for your workshop reaches £300 you will get to choose a FREE stamp set! more free stamp sets!!!

BECOME A DEMONSTRATOR - During Sale-A-Bration, anyone who joins as a demonstrator can choose any stamp set of any value from our current Idea Book and Catalogue!

BLISS

PUNCH BUNCH

SO HAPPY FOR YOU

SWEET SUMMER

Click on the image on the right hand sidebar for a catalogue PDF.

If you would like further details or would like to place an order with me to take advantage of this fantastic promotion then email me at sharonlindasim@hotmail.com

Can I also take this opportunity to wish all my customers, friends and blog readers a HAPPY NEW YEAR!! May 2011 be a year full of wonderful things for you all...xxx

Tartan Stampers Christmas 2010 Blog Hop

2010-12-05T10:00:00.006Z

Welcome to the Tartan Stampers Christmas 2010 Blog Hop!!

It is our first blog hop but hopefully the first of many. Hopefully you will be inspired by the many card, gift items and 3D items that you see on our blogs. If you have started at the start of the blog hop with Dawn, our fantastic upline, then you have probably come to my blog from the lovely Caroline. If not then you can go backwards or catch them again when you go full circle.

The theme of our blog hop is of course Christmas and all feature products available from Stampin' Up!

Stampin' Up! have such a wide range of Christmas stamps, as well as co-ordinating paper, cardstock, ribbons and embellishments. There is something for everyone's tastes and styles. The items that I have created use traditional Christmas colours however I am sure that they would look fantastic in any chosen colour scheme.

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No Christmas is complete without an advent calendar!! My two boys already have several calendars that I have bought or made in the past so this one will be for me!

I used a selection of current SU stamps to make the calendar - Winter Post, Delightful Decorations, Season of Joy, Tree Trimmings, Serene Snowflakes and Dot-to-Dot. Paper is Jolly Holiday which co-ordinates perfectly with Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive, Very Vanilla and Early Espresso cardstock. I used a variety of SU punches, ribbon and embellishments such as the Bird punch, buttons and linen thread.

For the base I used a Wiltons cupcake tin with 24 spaces. I made each day differently but all started with a piece of cardstock measuring 2 1/4" square. I created the numbers using Word, printed on to Very Vanilla card and punched out using a 3/4" circle punch. They were then added on to each finished card piece with a stampin dimensional. I filled each space with a sweet and attached the "doors" using magnets.

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My next item is a 3D Christmas tree that I created using Jolly Holiday Designer Patterned Paper, Christmas Ornament punch, Old Olive Striped Grosgrain ribbon and plenty of Dazzling Diamonds glitter!

Christmas baubles were punched using the ornament punch and attached to a polystyrene cone using pins and glue. I overlapped the baubles and worked from the bottom to the top alternating the direction each time. A lush bow was added to the top of the tree and lashings of glitter to finish!

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At the recent SU convention in November I took part in several swaps one of which was a card candy swap. This is the card candy that I created using the level 3 hostess set Playful Pieces, Old Olive, Cherry Cobbler, Baja Breeze, Whisper White and Early Espresso card and ink.

I made the following six cards using the toppers from one complete set of my card candy and the same colour scheme of card and ink etc.

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My final set of projects are some items that I taught at my monthly class in November. These were all made using only stamps from the Season of Joy set and the So Swirly Wheel. (These items are in the currect Bundle up for Christmas promotion - see post below). Cardstock used is Cherry Cobbler, Always Artichoke, Pear Pizzazz and Very Vanilla.

The instructions for the cracker and the After Eight holder were purchased from Jenny Moors.

Thank you for taking the time to follow our blog hop. Next up in the Tartan Stampers Chrsitmas 2010 Blog Hop is the wonderful Lorraine.

Finally, I hope that you have been inspired by the items that I have created and would love if you left me a comment and/or became a follower of my blog. If you would like more information on any of the products or techniques that I have used or you wish to order any of the products then please contact me at sharonlindasim@hotmail.com

Thanks!!

Amendment to Bundle Up for Christmas Promotion

2010-11-25T16:18:00.006Z

Due to unforeseen quality issues with the Ornament Punch, Stampin' Up! are no longer offering the Delightful Decorations Bundle as part of the Bundle up for Christmas Promotion.

However, they are pleased to offer an updated Delightful Decorations Bundle option:

125150 Delightful Decorations Bundle

Includes the Delightful Decorations Stamp Set and the Sparkle & Shine Jumbo Stampin’ Around Wheel £30.00

Bundle Up For Christmas Promotion

2010-11-08T10:13:00.010Z

Click on the images for close up view.

Get FREE ribbon - perfect for accenting beautiful Christmas packages- when you purchase exclusive bundles.

This promotion will run from 1st November - 29th December while stocks last.

The Christmas Cocoa Speciality Papers are not available in the current catalogue. They are exclusive to this promotion.

Stampin' Up! London European Convention 2010

2010-11-07T23:21:00.015Z

Earlier this evening I returned from Stampin' Up's annual convention which, this year, was held at Addington Palace near London. I went there with some members of the Tartan Stampers and it was the first convention that a few of us attended. It was an amazing experience for all of us and a special surprise was in store for three members of the team! Huge congratulations go to three Scottish demonstrators who made it to the top 25 demonstrators in the UK. My upline Dawn Silver was ranked at number 6 and two fellow Tartan Stampers, Elaine Brainwood and Kara Milne, who were ranked at 16 and 25 respectiveley. I am delighted for all three of you, it is very well deserved!

It was fantastic to get away for four days and spend time with fellow crafting friends and demonstrators. I thoroughly enjoyed the social aspect of the weekend as it was great fun meeting new people including several ladies that I have chatted to online with at ILWS.

One very popular social aspect to the SU conventions is swapping. It is fantastic getting the opportunity to swap ideas, cards and projects with other demonstrators to share ideas. I have come home full of inspiration!!

Over the next few days I will upload the photos from my camera and share them with you. Today I have some photographs to share that I took of my swaps before I went away.

Card Candy Swap
This is basically card toppers made with a stamp set and a sentiment set that are made for creating cards quickly.

Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Old Olive, Cherry Cobbler.
Ink: Baja Breeze, Old Olive, Cherry Cobbler, Early Espresso.
Stamps: Playful Pieces (level 3 hostess set), Basic Phrases.
Punches: Scallop Oval, Scallop Edge.
Ribbon: Old Olive 5/8" Satin, 1/4" Marina Mist Taffeta.

3D Swap
This is a swap for 3D items. I made the paper bird that is showcased in the 2010-2011 catalogue on page 89.

Designer Patterned Paper: Blueberry Crisp.
Ink: Not Quite Navy (for inking the edges)

CMC Swap
This is a swap that I took part in which included French and German demonstrators. There were 90 of us in this swap and we each made a 9cm x 9cm decorated page with details about us on the back.

Cardstock: Crumb Cake, Baja Breeze, Very Vanilla
Ink: Baja Breeze, Early Espresso
Stamps: Style Beautiful, Musical Notes, Vintage Vogue
Other: Baja Breeze marker (spritzed on background), Champagne paint (mixed with alcohol and sprayed on background to give a shimmer)

General Swaps
The swaps mentioned above are organised in advance with groups of demonstrators so that we know how many of each item to make however there is always plenty opportunity for general swaps where we create cards or projects and swap them with each other. I made 110 cards to swap in two different styles. I will post a photo of my second one tomorrow as I have not uploaded the photos from my camera. This is one of my cards which I made 50 of.

Cardstock: Basic Black, Riding Hood Red
Ink: Basic Black, Riding Hood Red
Stamps: Style Beautiful, Artistic Etchings, Pocket Silhouettes
Designer Patterned Paper: Love Letters
Other: Rhinestone Brad

Later this week I will post pictures of the amazing swaps that I received in return as well as some photographs from the convention.

Another Vintage Birthday card...

2010-10-17T17:29:00.006+01:00

...and no I don't mean vintage in age ........but vintage in style!!

I made this birthday card for a fellow crafting friend (and also SU demonstrator) who is celebrating her 40th birthday on Wednesday. Now this is where I hope that she doesn't look on my blog till after Wednesday! but I thought I'd show it today since I am on a roll uploading pictures from my camera as I have more to come.

Another one of my favourite stamp sets is Vintage Vogue and I have used that and the matching wheel to make this card.
The flower has been made by using the rock n roll technique with Crumb Cake and Baja Breeze ink. I stamped two large ones and one small one and layered with Stampin' Dimensionals.

Again I have used the same colour combo as the card in the post below.

Cardstock: Early Espresso, Baja Breeze, Crumb Cake and Very Vanilla
Ink: Early Espresso, Baja Breeze
Stamps sets: Vintage Vogue, Very Vintage, Playful Pieces (sentiment)
Embellishments: Marina Mist 5/8" satin ribbon, Pearls

Thanks for looking...x

A little bit of vintage....

2010-10-17T17:13:00.007+01:00

Two of my favourite stamps sets in the new 2010 - 2011 Idea Book and Catalogue are Style Beautiful and Artistic Etchings. I love the vintage and artsy feel these images have.

I have been playing around with a few colour schemes with these stamp sets and one of my favourite colour combos is Baja Breeze, Crumb Cake and Early Espresso.

I made this card today for my brother's girlfriend as it is her birthday on Friday.

Cardstock: Early Espresso, Baja Breeze, Crumb Cake and Very Vanilla
Ink: Early Espresso
Stamps sets: Artistic Etchings, Style Beautiful, Music Notes (wheel), Sincere Salutations
Punches: Scallop Circle Punch, Scallop Oval
Embellishments: Rhinestone Brads

Thanks for looking...x

Baby Girl Box

2010-10-04T19:03:00.005+01:00

I made this box to put a locket in as a christening gift for my friend Stephanie's baby girl Aurelia.
It was made from one sheet of A4 card and required only folding, no cutting. It is the perfect size for small gifts.

Stamps: Fox and Friends, Vintage Vogue

Ink: Pink Pirouette, Crumb Cake,

Cardstock: Pick Pirouette, Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla

Ribbon: Pretty in Pink taffeta ribbon

Punch: Scallop border edge

Anyone for Cupcakes?

2010-10-04T18:52:00.002+01:00

...unfortunately not the edible variety!!

....however hopefully ones that will be popular at workshops!!

Having been inspired with the "Book to Look" concept and also Christmas advent muffin trays that I have seen on the internet, I decided to combine the two and came up with a business tool that I am hoping will be a talking point at parties and be popular.

I decorated cupcakes (circles) and fixed on to a cupcake tray with magnetic squares. Behind each cupcake is a small embellished circle with a number inside.

The concept is that each customer that spends £50 at a workshop will choose one of the cupcake toppers. Behind each topper is a number. At the end of the party I will reveal the corresponding prize for that number. Up for grabs will be a stamp set with a value no less than £15. Prizes could also include a voucher, an ink pad, snail adhesive, embellishments, 2 metre lengths of ribbon etc.
Hostesses will also get to choose a topper as a thank you for booking a party with me.

Card stock: Real Red, Baja Breeze, Old Olive, Early Espresso, Crumb Cake

.Inks: Real Red, Baja Breeze, Old Olive, Early Espresso, Whisper White,

Ribbon: Old Olive Satin, Chocolate Chip Satin, Old Olive striped Grosgrain,

Stamps: I {heart} Hearts, Dot to Dot, Flight of the Butterfly.

Punches: Butterfly, Scallop Circle, 1 3/8" Circle.

An added bonus for me was that I entered my Cupcake Tray in the demo choice section at a recent SU regional training day and was shocked (but thrilled!) to win!!

The new catalogue is here!!!!

2010-10-01T20:40:00.009+01:00

The much awaited and anticipated Catalogue Launch is finally HERE!!!!
It has more pages than last year and is packed full of new stamps, new papers, new ribbons, new punches, new embellishments and more!!

If you haven't got a hard copy yet you can now finally have a look at the online one and start making your wish list.

Clear-Mount Rubber Stamps

Stampin' Up! now offers repositionable, clear-mount rubber stamps, in addition to their award-winning wood-mount rubber stamps! These new clear-mount stamps are designed to maintain the unbeatable image quality you love about traditional Stampin' Up! stamps, while at the same time offering the flexibility, ease of use, and storability inherent in repositionable rubber stamps.

Great news for those of you with space saving issues, also the lower prices means you can BUY so much more.

Don't delay! Contact me at sharonlindasim@hotmail.com to place your order!!

If our wish list is huge and you want to spread the cost over 6 months then contact me and ask about my stampers 6 group starting in January.

Time For Snow!

2010-10-01T20:07:00.001+01:00

....but fortunately I don't literally mean right now!! As much as I love snow (well only if I don't need to drive in it) I am not ready for more snow just yet!!

Rather my post title is the title of a scrapbook page that I made a few nights ago using photographs of my two boys taken in Januarys' snowfall.

I used a 12" x 12" sheet of Stampin' Up! Crumb Cake and stamped a background using Serene Snowflakes stamps with the stampin off technique (to get fainter images). Inks used are Pacific Point, Real Red, Old Olive and Early Espresso.

I mounted the photos on a Real Red mat that had been stamped using the Medallion stamp in Real Red. The strips of card are Old Olive and Pacific Point, which was punched with the scallop edge punch.

The tree embellishments have been made using the new level 3 hostess stamp set Playful Pieces which I adore!! They are so versatile and can be used to create lovely images.

To finish off I tied a piece of Old Olive satin ribbon around the strips of card.

Stamp Camp Sept 2010

2010-09-26T21:24:00.005+01:00

Sorry it has taken me so long to get the photos up from the recent Stamp Camp that Fiona and I did in September.

I still need to add photos of our finished projects.
I wonder if anyone can spot the upside down Christmas card on my display board LOL

MORE reductions!!!

2010-09-16T23:25:00.005+01:00

Stampin' Up! have unexpectedly made further reductions on the Last Chance List!!

Many stamps, embellishments and accessories have now been reduced to 50% off the original price!!

What are you waiting for? Click on the link to take you to EIGHT pages of Last Chance items!!

VIEW THE LIST HERE.

Successful Stamp Camp

2010-09-04T23:10:00.009+01:00

Finally today arrived!!!

Fiona and I have been really excited, and perhaps just a tad nervous too, about our first Stamp Camp!! However we had nothing to worry about as the 24 ladies that attended had a great time.

I am so proud of how lovely their projects are. It was great to see everyone smiling, laughing and crafting! They all enjoyed themselves and hopefully will be inspired to go home and try out the techniques that we showed them. I was overwhelmed at the lovely feedback that we received at the end.

I would like to say a HUGE thank you to each of them for coming along and supporting us at our first (but not last) Stamp Camp.

A HUGE thank you also to Dawn, Elaine and Sheryl whose help we could not have done without. A special than you from me to Fiona's son Grant and his girlfriend Danielle who worked hard behind the scenes making sure that everyone was kept supplied with fresh tea and coffee.

I have a special mention for Fiona too who has put up with me and my OCD in the build up to the event LOL

Come back to see the photos that will appear over the next few days.

Preorder NEW Stampin Up! 2010 - 2011 Idea Book and Catalogue

2010-09-02T19:22:00.009+01:00

As a demonstrator I have seen a sneak peek of the new Stampin' Up! 2010 - 2011 Idea Book and Catalogue and it is fantastic!! Already I have a HUGE wish list!!

I will be placing my order for new catalogues shortly and they will be shipping to me the last week in September. Would you like one posted out to you the same day that I receive them? First class recorded delivery?

Pre-order a copy of the new catalogue now at £4.95

( includes postage)

Stampin' Up! Retiral List!

2010-09-01T08:25:00.003+01:00

This is what is retiring from the current Stampin' Up! catalogue and only valid until stocks last or September 30th whichever comes first.

Last year popular items did sell out, so I urge you to not wait too long if there is something on here that you are after, then get it quick before it goes.

So what are you waiting for? Click here to be taken to the SEVEN PAGES of retiring items.

Thanks.

Monthly Classes

2010-08-31T17:49:00.003+01:00

If you would like to come along to one of my monthly papercrafting / cardmaking classes then contact me at sharonlindasim@hotmail.com or 07773 930311.
Booking is essential.

Click on poster for details.

New Stampers 10 club starting soon....

2010-08-01T09:00:00.001+01:00

Being in a Stamper's 10 group is such a great way to build up your collection, spread the costs and BENEFIT as a hostess without having an actual party.

Join my new group which starts in October and you will receive a copy of the NEW catalogue which will have new hostess sets to choose from!!!

If you are intersted in joining my Stampers 10 Club then contact me at sharonlindasim@hotmail.com

Click on poster for detailed image

20% off Two Step Stampin' Sets....

2010-08-01T08:00:00.001+01:00

....during the month of August

Click on image for details.

You can email me at sharonlindasim@hotmail.com to place an order or to host a workshop.

Stampin' Up! Craft and Stamp Camp!!

2010-07-06T12:46:00.005+01:00

Fiona and I are delighted to announce the date for our first Craft and Stamp Camp on Saturday 4th September 2010 in Fraserburgh.

I hope you can join us for a day filled with creativity and fun!
Contact me or Fiona to book your place.

Hope to see you there...x

Click on poster for a detailed image.

Colour Combo Special Offer

2010-06-06T17:39:00.009+01:00

To coincide with my projects for the blog hop I have put together a special ribbon and card share.

6 sheets of A4 Soft Suede cardstock
6 sheets of A4 Old Olive Cardstock
6 sheets of A4 More Mustard cardstock
3 metres of Soft Suede 5/8" polka dot grosgrain ribbon
3 metres of Old Olive 5/8" satin ribbon
3 metres of More Mustard 1/4" grosgrain ribbon
1 Funky Forest Roller

Price is £13.50 and £3.95 P&P

Why not add on the ink pads too !
(no extra P&P charges)
Soft Suede £4.25
Old Olive £4.25
More Mustard £4.25

Contact me at sharonlindasim@hotmail.com to place your order.

The Funky Forest roller requires a standard Stampin' Around Handle - £2.75
This offer ends Tuesday 22nd June.

New Colours Blog Hop

2010-06-06T10:00:00.006+01:00

Welcome to the In Love With Stamping
New Colours Blog Hop!

Taking part in the blog hop are some Stampin' Up! Demonstrators from ILWS. The blog hop features new products that were released at the beginning of last month including Inks, Card, DSP, Ribbon and Velum. We each had to create a project or a set of cards using these and a stamp set or two so settle down with a cuppa and have a good look around the blogs!

Thank you for joining me from Fiona's blog. However if you missed it then click on the link to go back.

Here are my projects:

Materials used
Stamp set: Trendy Trees,
Standard Roller: Funky Forest
Ink: Soft Suede, More Mustard, Old Olive
Cardstock: Soft Suede, More Mustard, Old Olive
Ribbon: Soft Suede polka dot, Old Olive satin 5/8", More Mustard grosgrain 1/4"
Punches: Scallop Edge, 1 1/4" circle, 1 3/8" circle, Scallop Circle

The next blog in the hop is Teri's which you can find here.
You can also find the first blog in round one here and the first blog in round three here.

Thanks for joining me!

Extra, Extra Hostess Promotions

2010-06-01T12:58:00.003+01:00

Stampin’ Up!® have announced that from 1 June-31 July hostesses can earn an extra £20 in free merchandise when they host a workshop totalling £250 or more in product sales.

To take advantage of this special offer while having a great time with friends and family, contact me at sharonlindasim@hotmail.com

New Products

2010-05-12T18:40:00.009+01:00

Stampin' Up are changing their colour families in October but you can purchase 3 of the new colours now. You can get the inks, card, ribbon, DSP & window sheets.

The colours are Melon Mambo, Rich Razzleberry & Soft Suede

Prices are:
Ink pads - £4.25
Card 24 sheets - £4.50
Ribbon 1/2 ins Polka Dot Grosgrain - £8.95
DPS Cottage Wall 24 double sided 12x12 sheets - £7.75
Printed Window sheets 2 12 X12 Flower Fantasy - £9.50

Click for larger view.

The card stock and Classic Stampin' Pads are sneak peek items and will carry over into the upcoming Idea Book & Catalog in October

The Designer Series paper, ribbon, and window sheets are only available while supplies last and will not carry over into the upcoming Idea Book & Catalogue.

To place an order email me at sharonlindasim@hotmail.com

A GREAT OFFER

2010-05-02T06:33:00.026+01:00

To celebrate me joining up I have a special offer for you during the month of May!

Place an order with me over £25.00 and receive an ink pad of your choice FREE

If you don't have a copy of the current catalogue then click on the link in my sidebar.

(P&P applies)

All orders placed with me in the month of May will be entered in to a prize draw to win some Stampin' Up! goodies

Exciting news - I am now a Stampin' Up Demonstrator!

2010-05-01T15:55:00.015+01:00

Yes I have finally decided to go for it!

Over the next few months I will be hosting some small workshops and also offering some special promotions. Watch your inboxes.

**************************

I am starting a Stamper's 10 group at the beginning of October and have places available so if you would like your name to be added to the list please email me.
sharonlindasim@hotmail.com

Being in a Stamper's 10 group is such a great way to build up your collection, spread the costs and BENEFIT as a hostess without having an actual party.

Join my new group and you will receive a copy of the NEW catalogue which will have new hostess sets to choose from!!!

Click on the Stampers 10 tab at the top of the page to read how it works.