If Only I Had Time For This...

Curtain Call

2010-10-10T16:59:00.004+08:00

Back again, I'm really enjoying my lazy Sunday-let's see if I enjoy housework Monday as much!!

Another 2 challenges on this card, Clean & Simple (FTL111) sketch challenge and another new one i'v e come across-Curtain Call colour challenge (Act51)

Here is my card, very simple & quite quick as I managed to sneak this one in before I had to make dinner : )

I stamped the Crumbcake base with the pretty Bella Toile BG stamp in Sahara Sand ink (stamped off once) My Marina Mist panel has been stamped with Elements of Style with MM ink. The butterfly is the gorgeous Bigz Die-Beautiful Butterflies, cut out of watercolour paper,stamped in StazOn & watercoloured with Marina Mist & So Saffron. I dabbed some shimmer paint over the top of the flowers & popped it up on dimensionals.

Thanks for stopping by xx

the fine print:

Stamp sets- Bella Toile BG, Elements of Style, Afterthoughts

Cardstock- Crumbcake, Marina Mist, Basic Black, watercolour paper

Ink- Sahara Sand, Marina Mist, So Saffron, black StazOn

Other- Butterfly die, Aquapainter, white taffeta ribbon, shimmer paint

Awash With Flowers

2010-10-10T13:52:00.006+08:00

This is another stamp set I just loved as soon as I saw it in the new catalogue, I'm sure there will be a lot more posts featuring this one in the near future!

My card again covers 2 challenges,
Stampin Royalty colour challenge and Makeesha's sketch (again)

I wasn't too sure about these colours together, but then I saw Alisa Tilsner's gorgeous card & thought I could make the colour combo work...here's my attempt...
another 6" square...

I stamped the Concord Crush layer with the solid flower stamp (doesn't show up to well in the photo) One flower has been popped up with dimensionals & more pearls to finish off.(more of these will be on my next order if I keep this up! see previous posts...)

I stitched around all of the panels on my sewing machine with some turquoise thread and used the scallop border punch on the choc chip panel (layered with concord crush & so saffron ribbon)

Thanks for stopping by xx

the fine print:

Cardstock-So Saffron, Choc Chip, Concord Crush, watercolour paper

Stamp sets- Awash with Flowers, Curly Cute

Ink- Tempting Turquoise, So Saffron, black StazOn

Other- So Saffron ribbon, aqua painter, scallop border punch, pearls, dimensionals

thanks Al...

2010-10-09T21:07:00.004+08:00

I got another challenge completed, uploaded AND entered on time! This one is Makeesha's latest sketch challenge...

and my cute little thank you owl. I've used my new Woodgrain BG, lots of sponging & cut out the 'thanks' from "A Word for You" stamp set. The owl is popped up on dimensionals & has a cute little bow in her hair, I saw this idea on Kirsty'sCardsnScrap. Love her style!

The colour combo comes from the fabbo new colour coach-my first play with that too...It's the 'sweet set' combo on the Poppy Parade page. (I also added Choc Chip)

My card is just a wee little 4" square, rather cute size for some thankyou cards that I need to send out

Thanks for stopping by xx

the fine print:

Stamp Set: Woodgrain BG, A Word for You

Cardstock: Not Quite Navy, Sahara Sand, Poppy Parade, Choc Chip

Ink: Choc Chip, Night of Navy

Other: Owl (Al) punch, pearls, word window punch, dimensionals

Pretty Grungey

2010-10-09T13:10:00.007+08:00

I am determined to create this weekend, I've been doing lots of stuff for everyone else lately so this weekend is all mine! (with some housework thrown in if I get the guilts!!)

I've written down all the challenges I want to enter-it's quite a few, so I've combined 2 of them for my first card - Just Add Ink - Just add pink & bling, along with the Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge.

I went a bit bigger than my norm-this one's 6" square.

This card was nothing like this in my head when I started, I was going for sweet,pretty,pink,girly etc but what I've ended up with is (still)pink, girly & grungey...I think it works, what do you think?
I have used lots of new stuff on this card & possibly went a little pearl crazy!

Here are some close ups so you can see the shimmer paint & the pearl overload!

I added some shimmer paint to the flowers after watercolouring, & stamped the bird in Choc Chip, sponged on shimmer paint then cut out.

and then came the pearls....really, can you blame me? It was a brand new pack...and they're just so simple to stick on...and on!

Thanks for stopping by, let me know what you think...overload or not...

the small print:

DSP-level 1 hostess DSP pack

Cardstock-Crumbcake, Choc Chip, watercolour paper

Ink-Pink Pirouette, Rose Red, Choc Chip, Old Olive

Stamp Set-Elements of Style

Accessories- Aqua painter, PP ribbon, twill tape, sewing machine. pearls

Lots of pics, not much to read...

2010-10-08T08:28:00.005+08:00

These are some of the cards I made for a recent workshop to showcase some of the gorgeous new products from Stampin' Up!

Contempo Christmas & Vintage Wallpaper emb.folder

Friends Never Fade, Greenhouse Gala DSP & new In-Colours

Friends Never Fade (this was one of the Make & Takes for everyone)

Artistic Etchings & Newsprint DSP

A CASE form Pat Carr's demo @ Perth Regionals on punch artShowcasing all 5 brand new In-Colours & one of the new level 2 hostess sets, Apple Blossoms

more Friends Never fade & Concord Crush (in-colour)

Sorry for the short descriptives, too busy to talk, Gotta run!

If you want to know any more details just ask!

Thanks for dropping by xx

Regional Training Swaps

2010-10-01T21:15:00.003+08:00

I went to our annual Regional Training day a few weeks back & had a great day out. These were my swaps...

52 in all...

Friends Never Fade (Ithink this one was my fave)

Friends Never Fade + Butterfly Embosslit (Beautiful Wings)

Artistic Etchings + Newsprint DSP

I will have to take some photos of the projects we made on the day & post them for you to see.

Fiona's Baby Shower

2010-10-01T21:05:00.002+08:00

I wanted to make a special card for my besties baby shower, this is what I came up with...

I used some punches to save cutting-ovals for hair, word window for arm & chest, butterfly for face, scallop border for bottom of dress. I thought she was pretty cute, actually looks a lot like Fi. p.s She had a boy- Hadley Thomas Walker x

Blowing the dust off!

2010-10-01T19:59:00.004+08:00

I just don't know where time goes around here...never mind, you know I'll always find my way back eventually!

Feeling a bit neglectful so here is some eye candy for you...

Lovely As A Tree

Nursery Necessities

Medallion

I'll be back soon with more...promise!!

Inkspirations 34

2010-08-16T13:54:00.007+08:00

Finally got around to joining in on the Inkspirations challenges again...feeling a little rusty!

Firstly the sketch....
and my creation (using up some of the DSP stash so I don't feel too guilty about buying loads more from the new catty!)

Hope you're having a good Monday : ) I'm off to drool over my brand new catalogue (again) to see what I NEED! : )

THE FINE PRINT....CARD; BAJA BREEZE, RUBY RED, SO SAFFRON,WHISPER WHITE.

DSP; SWEET SLUMBER

STAMP; PUN FUN

ACCESSORIES; SCALLOP BORDER PUNCH, 1/2" CIRCLE PUNCH, BLACK STAZ-ON , SO SAFFRON RIBBON, SILVER BRADS.

M.I.A now J.A.I

2010-07-12T15:13:00.008+08:00

Finally got time to post some cards...

I decided to play along with the latest challenge over @ Just Add Ink.

Here are my TWO creations : )

First up, playing with my newly aquired Circle Circus...

I covered the vanilla panel with Versamark & clear embossing powder to give a nice glossy effect & popped up the whole panel with dimensionals.

And my second card I used En Francais & Medallion(stamped off once) BG stamps and the cute little a la carte stamp 'All a Flutter'
The Rose Red panel & the vanilla circle have had the faux suede treatment, some sponging & distressing, a bit of twill tape, some branches from the bird punch & some dazzling diamonds on the butterfly to add a bit of sparkle : ) (the butterfly & circles are popped up on dimensionals for a bit of height)

Thanks for looking ; )

New fave

2010-05-20T13:29:00.007+08:00

Makeesha's latest challenge...

I've had this card in my head for a while now-but definately NOT these colours! To be honest I REALLY like the way it has turned out & I'm definately going to make some more...

Some lovely shiney crystal effects to make it even prettier...

I've used a layout from Clean&Simple Stamping

All Stampin' Up products except for the velvet ribbon (Basic Grey 'Black Tie' collection from my stash)

Thanks for challenging me to use apricot appeal Keesh!

As I said I really liked the end result & popped it in the mail to send some love to my mum x

zindorf rocks!

2010-05-16T15:09:00.005+08:00

I was playing with my new brayer that I bought after being super-inspired by the super talented Michelle Zindorf, boy can she brayer! Anyway-was inspired, bought a brayer, had a play & created this card (it's pretty much a total CASE from one of Michelle's but I'm still happy with it!) I liked it so much I decided I would do 6 of them for a swap that I'm doing over at ESAD for UnConvention : ) After I had made my cards, I saw the new challenge on the Just Add Ink blog, they are doing a technique blog hop-lots of talent to check out there too-one of the techniques they are blogging & hopping about is ...wait for it...brayering!! So long story short here's my entry to the JAI challenge...

I have brayered the scene on whisper white, matted on baja breeze & matted again on very vanilla. The roughed up strip of always artichoke kinda hangs out the side for a bit of texture. I have used Baja breeze & Pacific point inks for the sky & water and always artichoke for the stems (1st & 2nd generation stamping). The wording "it's good to dream" stands out a lot more in the real, I should have waited for better light in the morning, but I wanted to get the pic taken & uploaded so I can get my swaps sent off!

If you're in the ESAD swap & get one of these, act surprised, like you've never seen it before!!

Thanks for checking out my card, leave me a note so I can check out your stuff too ; )

P.S I LOVE BRAYERING NOW! : )

tumble dried

2010-05-14T13:53:00.004+08:00

Here is my second layout for the latest challenge over @ StampAmemory

I have used more photos of Will in the dryer but a different layout & different colours. Once again no editing done on the photos...

While I really like the single photo I used on the "ratbag" page (see previous entry) I like the way these 5 photos tell the story of 'Will in the dryer'! I have kept the journalling simple & included it in the title...such good fun until you get STUCK. I have handwritten the title & covered it with crystal effects.
Thanks for looking...don't report me to the authorities for taking photos instead of removing my child from the clothes dryer! hehe : ) *I am pleased to say he has never tried to get in there again & fair chance he would no longer fit. Lucky I grabbed the camera isn't it!!!

not so perfect photos

2010-05-14T10:39:00.006+08:00

We've all got them & to be honest what do we do with them...they don't look so good in the ordinary photo album, but scrap them & they become great pieces that we look back on with great memories. Here's my not so perfect photos scrapped for Stamp A Memorys latest challenge.

This is my photo, I haven't altered it at all before scrapping it,

I have used pumpkin pie & tempting turquoise c/s & rolled it with Nursery Letters jumbo wheel & Versamark to create my own patterned paper. For the lettering I have used Big Deal alpha stamped in basic black & covered in crystal effects. I have followed a sketch from 'PageMaps' & used the colours & stripes in Will's t-shirt for inspiration - as he is in a clothes dryer there's not much else going on in the background!! Yes I will admit to running to get the camera when Will climbed into the dryer mumbling something about driving a car...what else does a scrapbooking mum do!!! Does that count for not so perfect photos or just not so perfect parenting???

Challenge Me SAM...

2010-04-25T15:47:00.008+08:00

This is Stampamemory challenge #8 but I think it's only the third one for me... and seeing as I haven't posted anything since January!!! you can probably guess that I haven't had time for much creating...

So here is my layout about me-the challenge was to list 5 things you like about yourself, but I took a little creative liberty on that...

Products used...

Card- Baja Breeze, Kraft, Whisper White

Paper- Parisian Breeze

Ink- Baja Breeze, Sahara Sand, Choc Chip,Versamark

Stamps- Organic Outlines, Framed with Love

Other- White gel pen, Choc chip marker, Kraft ribbon, Brads, Scallop Border punch, American Crafts & Heidi Swapp rub-ons.

To save you straining your eyes, here are the finer points...

THIS IS ME like it or not!

I am 30

Capricorn

Daughter-Sister-Mother-Friend-Wife-Aunty-Niece-I am all of these.

I am Stubborn

I am Kind

I am Loyal

I am grateful everyday

I am busy - I am rested

I am Blessed

I am loved

I'm hardworking I am lazy!

I am friendly - I am private

I am creative

I am sporty

I am careful

I am happpy-excited-tired-grumpy...

I am a hairdresser

I am messy - I am clean

I love my family

I have big feet, Poppa's knees & Nanna's nose! hmmm...

I have a husband & a son who I love to bits

This is me...

Just a couple of close ups of the ruffled ribbon & these cute little birds!

So, while there are more than 5 points there, I do like all of these things about me-some good, some not so good but they are what make me ME!

Thanks for the challenge Stampamemory xx

Paper Flower

2010-01-26T15:02:00.004+08:00

I had time to make another entry for Makeesha's Inkspiration challenge #17. I also wanted to have a go at making these gorgeous paper flowers. I found a super cute card on Karen Thomas' blog along with a link to the creator of said flower...

Cardstock: Cameo Coral, Very Vanilla, Choc Chip.

Ink & Marker: Choc Chip.

DSP: Patterns Choc Chip, Ginger Blossom (retired)

Other: So Saffron ribbon, Word Window Punch, Sweet Little Sentiments, 1" & 1 3/4" circle punch, Large Oval punch, Eyelet Border punch, Crimper, Button (Latte)

Stamp-A-Memory Summer challenge

2010-01-24T13:39:00.004+08:00

Time for challenge #2 over at stampamemory. This time a 'summery' challenge. I used a sketch from Becky Fleck (PageMaps) for my inspiration. It is an A4 double page but I think I will make some adjustments & turn it into a 12x12 double.

I used some photos from Will's 2nd birthday of him & his two cousins jumping on the trampoline. They were all wearing bright summery clothes so I paired them up with the lovely Kaleidoscope DSP from the summer mini. I can't quite believe that I have done a 'Will page' with pink flowers & butterflies & NO blue on it!!(well, a smidge on the DSP) Anyway I had fun doing this layout, and I really like the effect of Kaleidoscope DSP with Kraft. Here are some close-ups so you can see what I've used...

Organic Outlines, Framed with Love, Trio Flower punch, vanilla button.
Butterfly Prints & punch, jumbo alpha, Only Orange/Green Galore/Pixie Pink ink & c/s

Stamin Write marker, white gel pen, Sahara Sand to ink edges of circles.(1" & 1 3/4")

After submitting my last few challenges I think I'd better clean off my table & pull out a different stamp set...there has been an organic overload!

Thanks for looking & don't forget to say Hi so I know who's visited.... ; )

Inkspirations #17

2010-01-23T23:32:00.003+08:00

Yay, Keesh is still doing her Inkspiration challenges! Her first challenge for the year is a colour combo...

These would not be my "go to" colours, but that is why they are challenges! and I must say I'm really happy with the end result. I kept it clean & simple, with only a small amount of coral (what a wuss!) I played around with lots of different bits & pieces in each of the colours & settled on a choc chip base, vanilla panel, saffron DSP & ribbon with a cute little coral heart & choc chip button embellishment-I also threaded a thin strip of coral c/s through the button.

Go check out the other entries, they sure to be fabbo!

New Challenge Blog!

2010-01-23T23:04:00.007+08:00

Woo Hoo! I found a new challenge blog the other day via the very talented Sarah Klass.

'Just Add Ink' is the name of the blog & their first challenge is a colour combo. Check it out...

Here is my take on the challenge...

So, what do you think??? I've used Organic Outlines stamped in VersaMark & White onto the Rose Red, a scallop strip punched with my slit punch (for bigger scallops) and some ruffled up So Saffron ribbon. I stamped the sentiment in Choc Chip & used a button from the Playground Designer Buttons-the pack lists the colour as Tempting Turquoise but it looks so much like Taken with Teal on this card I'm leaving it right were it is! and my girlfriend who will be receiving the card knows nothing about tempting turquoise or taken with teal!! (She's not a stamper...where did I go wrong?)

Go check out the newest {challenge} blog on the block & join in on the fun! There's even a prize up for grabs...quick...go!

Claire's Half Sheet Wonder

2010-01-18T11:59:00.005+08:00

I love the idea of the full/half sheet wonder. So many cards with minimal effort. Great way to stock up the card stash, or a beautiful gift to give. Head on over to Claire Daly's blog to check out her beautiful samples (& a chance to win a punch of your choice! So generous!)

Here are my "Half Sheet Wonder" creations, I got 5 cards from half a sheet of whisper white!
I used 'Organic Outlines' and Rose Red, Pink Pirouette, Whisper White, Kraft & a touch of Black for my colour combo. I also added Kraft & Pink Pirouette ribbon, some punches and piercing & a sweet treat cup.

Here they are up close so you can see all the details...

I have also used 'Whimsical Words' & the flower trio punch on this one. The flower from Organic Outlines has been stamped off once with Sahara Sand on the Kraft for the background.

This card also uses the 'one of a kind' single stamp, that is very cute on cards but can also be used on the back of your cards in compliance with the Stampin' Up! policy on selling cards.

and to finish off a little 3x3 gift card using the circle I punched out for the sweet treat cup. NO SCRAPS left over at all! and an extra 1 3/4" circle of Rose Red distressed (with my fingernail!)sticking out from behind. I also stamped an extra flower in Rose Red to cut out & pop up on dimensionals. Stamp set 'Whimsical Words' & 'Organic Outline'

I really like these & I am definately going to make some more...might challenge myself to do a masculine set next-Watch this space!

Stamp-A-Memory Christmas Challenge

2010-01-15T19:36:00.006+08:00

I love finding new challenges to complete, so when I came across this one, I was IN! Easy-just scrap christmas photos, new or old it doesn't matter... Here is my take on the challenge,

Edited to add...I used a sketch from Julie Bonner (52 pages 52 weeks) as my inspiration.

A Very Merry Christmas... (from all of us!)
Journalling reads; This is the photo I sent out with our Christmas cards to family & friends. The idea was for you to sit 'still' with all of your teddies, while wearing the santa hat. Let's just say that you had fun in amongst all those stuffed toys & the hat was repeatedly thrown/chewed/buried everytime I tried to take a photo. Never mind, at least I was able to snap a happy boy. Merry Christmas Everyone! 2008
Now, I'm cutting it fine on the old deadline so I'll keep it short. All materials Stampin' Up plus some computer font for title & journalling. Here are some close up shots...

I stole this cute border idea from a very cute Princess/Fairy Tales layout by one of the very talented girls over at stamp a memory, can't think who but I will go back & find out to give due credit... edited to add- Beth Stewart is the clever one who deserves the credit!

A new technique called 'frosting' , shared with us in the latest demonstrator newsletter (another great bonus about being a demonstrator!)

and to finish off , a little scalloped & crinkled strip with a button embellishment. ( & you can see my pierced scallop border a little better too!)

Thanks for looking : )

Stampin' Up Inventory Clearance Sale!!

2009-12-14T13:38:00.002+08:00

Until January 24th, but only while stocks last, you can grab some AWESOME discounts on a great list of stamp sets, Designer Series Paper & accessories!
Want some examples???

Jumbo Outline or Big Deal Alphabets $39.98 each (usually $77.95)
Life Definitions $68.21 (usually $90.95)
Styled Silver Hodgepodge Hardware $43.46 (usually $57.95)
Wonderful Favourites $29.96 (usually 39.95) this has got to be the bargain of the year-I don't know if many of you have looked at this stamp set, but it is a set of 23!!! Absolute Bargain!

Click >>HERE<< to see the full list, then contact me QUICK so you don't miss out!!
(All products on the list can be found in the main catalogue)
Happy browsing : )

Inkspiration challenge #16

2009-12-03T21:26:00.006+08:00

Whoa! Just scraping in by the skin of my teeth!!! I've been wanting to play along with more of these challenges,but other things have had to come first. Not today though, I scrapped on & off throughout the day until it was done.

Makeesha's colour challenge was Taken with Teal, Real Red, Pumpkin Pie & Whisper White. Yay, I had all the colours & some cute photos of Will to scrap from my brothers wedding last month. These words sum up the photos perfectly (I think so anyway!) Laugh like no one's listening Dance like no one's watching Live as if heaven is right here on earth. ( I played around on the computer and printed onto white cardstock)

cardstock:whisper white, taken with teal, pumpkin pie, real red.
DSP: pumpkin pie from 'Hoppy Memories' scrap kit & taken with teal *retired
Accessories:mat pack, white gel pen, build a brad, kaleidoscope buttons,bright delight rub-ons, 'Flirty' ric rac *retired, spiral punch, journalling pen, sticker strip/ribbon from Hoppy Memories kit, embroidery thread

Sorry about the quality of the photo, I will take a better one during the day & replace!

SALE-A-BRATE GOOD TIMES, COME ON!!!

2009-12-03T13:22:00.003+08:00

Hope you haven't got the song stuck in your head now (like I have!) As you may have guessed it's nearly Sale-a-bration time again, that's right FREE stamps!!!
There are 4 to choose from/earn; Happy Moments, Good Neighbour, Vintage Labels, Whimsical Words
As a demonstrator I get to buy a SAB set early & create lots of fun samples to show you all, I have just ordered Whimsical Words, but there are a couple others I could make use of too!! I look forward to showing you lots of fun samples soon...

For every $100 you spend you can choose a FREE limited SAB stamp set & if you host a party with sales over $600 you (the hostess) get a FREE limited SAB stamp set, as well as all the other fabbo hostess benefits!-too easy!

Promo runs from January 25th until March 31st, so check your diary and ring me to schedule a party for either before or after your fabulous holiday break! (or maybe even both! there's lots of time for more FREE stamps)

I will be organising a get together, probably after all the silly season silly-ness, so everyone can see & play with the new summer mini products & see what's in store for Sale-A-Bration 2010!

If you don't have a new summer mini catalogue just let me know & I'll get one out to you : )

Just a quick note...

2009-10-16T08:54:00.002+08:00

Hi all, just a quick note to let you all know Stampin' Up have been working their magic once again & have come up with a 'Christmas Gift Giving' guide.
You willl find ideas for neighbours, cardmakers, scrapbookers, kids & teens and some always handy stocking stuffers!!! What's even better news is that if (when!) you spend $85 from the guide you will receive a free scallop square punch (valued at $30.95) This offer is not limited to one per order either, for every $85 you spend you get a punch! There's another present off the list! This fab offer starts November 1st & finishes December 14, so make a list & check it twice, then contact me for some freebie fun shopping!
I've also got some cards to show, but I'll put those up when Buster goes back to bed!

White Rose, Real Saffron

2009-09-10T14:03:00.004+08:00

Ok, super quick post...Here's my card for Makeesha's colour challenge.

The colours are Real Red, So Saffron, Regal Rose & Whisper White.

The photo's a bit dodgy, will se if I get time to take a better one! My rose butterflies were stamped in white ink, clear embossed & covered with fine glitter. I also stamped the butterfly image onto the saffron paper (under the rose butterflies) & clear embossed.

Gotta run- need to make my costume for tomorrow nights netball wind-up...should be lots of fun..... Vegas, here I come!!!!

Sharing is Caring!

2009-08-30T15:06:00.015+08:00

Hi folks! Wondering if anyone out there is interested in a couple of Stampin' Up! product shares I am organising...

In Colour Ribbon share - page 150 (5/8" or 1.59cm Striped Grosgrain Ribbon) $19.50 per share, receive 2.25 metres of each colour {have 2 sharers, need 4 more to complete share}

Build-A-Brad share - page 149 $9.50 per share, receive 6 pewter & 6 antique brass brad bases & 12 adhesive acrylic bubbles. {have 2 sharers, need 2 more to complete share}

Designer Buttons share - page 151 $10.30 per share, receive 1 of each colour/design from both Bouquet & Latte button packs (that's 10 from each pack) {need 3 to complete share}

That's all for the shares right now, but if they are popular I'll get some more started.

Stampin' Up! have a deal going for the month of September-spend $100 or host a workshop with $600 in sales and receive an exclusive ribbon bundle* for free!

*Bundle consists of 9.1 metres of Certainly Celery 5/8" poly-twill & 9.1 metres of So Saffron 5/8" grosgrain.

Thanks for visiting : )
Stay tuned for upcoming classes, deals & projects!

Inspiration Challenge #11

2009-08-17T12:59:00.005+08:00

Wow, 6 weeks since I was last here!

I'm joining in the fun of Makeesha's Inspiration Challenge. This time just a picture, not a sketch or colour combo-just a picture...hmm. Here it is-What would you do with it?

Here's my attempt...

For this one I tried out a new stamp from Kasazz, Cafe Silhouette-pretty cute!
I used So Saffron patterned paper from Walk in the Park, Baja Breeze & Basic Black cardstock, 'just because' from Everyday Celebrations (I think that's the name of it!) brads, piercing, all mounted with dimensionals on a white bazzill cardstock base.

Onto the next one...again white base, this pretty Basic Grey DSP is also from Walk in the Park, I've stamped the cup onto white bazzill & watercoloured, mounted with basic black a bit of baja ribbon & some brads.

Thanks for looking- what do you think, too plain or does it pass???

Sketch Challenge 1,2 & 3

2009-06-01T13:33:00.005+08:00

Makeesha has another challenge on her blog, this time a sketch. I had fun playing with new stuff, including my 'nesties' - I love them!

I obviously enjoyed the sketch because I made 3 cards using it. I used a bit of creative ad-lib when it came to the shape of the panel, after all, I did want to try out my nestabilities.

Here's the sketch

and my cards...

Stamp sets: Always, Sanded BG

Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Pink Pirouette, Whisper White

DSP: Choc Chip, Urban Garden

Ink: Baja Breeze, Pink Pirouette, Choc Chip

Ribbon: Choc Chip, Pink (non SU)

Other: Piercing, Nestabilities Labels 4 & Circle Die

Stamp sets: Always, Tres Chic BG

Cardstock: Basic Grey, Basic Black, Baja Breeze, Whisper White

DSP: Urban Garden

Ink: Baja Breeze, Grey(non SU)

Other: Scallop border punch, silver brad, Nestabilities Oval & Scalloped Oval Die

Stamp set: Arr! Piratey (The Cats Pajamas)

Cardstock: Kraft, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White, Basic Black

DSP: Riding Hood Red, Pacific Point

Ink: StazOn, Pacific Point, Riding Hood Red, Creamy Caramel, Pumpkin Pie, Grey

Other: Ribbon, Nestabilities Circle Die

I am excited to announce that I have just signed up to be a Stampin' Up demo!! I tried to conjur up the Stampin' Up demo magic for these cards-I hope I have succeeded. I like them, so I guess that's the main thing : ) Thanks for looking x

Colour challenge take 2!

2009-05-21T16:25:00.003+08:00

Back again, I got to make another card for Keesh's colour challenge this afternoon-YAY! This time I got the colours right & used vanilla instead of white.

It's not a good photo but the weather is very grey & overcast here today. Not to mention the awful dust storms, but we did get 4 mm rain so that should settle the dust! I used my "new" Natural Beauty stamp set (see last post) & my leafy branch cuttlebug folder. I found a button in the stash that is very much sage shadow(not that it looks it in this photo) and I punched my Florentine edge punch top & bottom of the choc chip piece. Oh & I roughed up the edges of the vanilla & rust squares.

Inkspiration colour challenge #7

2009-05-21T11:39:00.003+08:00

This is a colour challenge from Makeesha Byl. I'm not a big fan of Really Rust but I am a fan of Makeesha's work so I thought I'd tough it out & have a go. Plus I needed a present for my Nanna's birthday & after playing around with this stamp set & colours, I thought a little stack of these would be nice for Nanna : ) I was at a Stampin' Up party the other day & Helen was practically giving away some of her old sets-I was lucky enough to have the first look in the bag & snavelled up this set "Mixed Bouquet" & also the "Natural Beauty" set. Lucky, Lucky! So, here are the colours & my card(s). I also used my Bouquet roller & versamark for the background & a bit of piercing along the bottom of the choc chip piece.

I got a bit excited about having ALL the colours for this challenge (I'm usually missing something!) In all my excitement I started madly stamping a piece of white card instead of vanilla-I'm going to make some more cards to go in with Nanna's stack of cards & will definately use vanilla! I just might get my "new" Natural Beauty set inky for the next lot....stay tuned!

K-Dub's 50th colour inspiration challenge

2009-04-27T14:17:00.011+08:00

This one is dedicated to Kristina Werner & the wonderful challenges she comes up with each week. I certainly haven't entered all 50 of her colour challenges but I do like to have a play when I can! She is very generously offering some awesome prizes for this momentous occasion along with RULES!! Only one entry per person (so make it your best work she says!) & no extra colours added to her colour challenge, which was brown, red, yellow, turquoise & white.

That's it-no exceptions!

I had a bit of trouble photographing this one & have been trying all afternoon to get it right - it's getting to that time of the day when I just have to give up & get everything in the house sorted for tonight & tomorrow. Anyway on to the card-this colour combo stumped me for a while & I have several half made brown, yellow, red, turquoise & white 'creations' laying around!

I rolled the turquoise base & brown piece with the Petals jumbo roller in Versamark,although it's a little hard to see on the brown piece in the photo. The stamped image is from Angie Delarie, stamped in brown & coloured with brown, red, yellow & turquoise chalks & a blender pen. This piece is mounted up on some foam dimensionals with 'wonderful' stamped onto it & a sweet little red flower button. Oh & some ribbon, a little piercing around the brown scalloped piece & a bit of faux sewing with a white gel pen.

I am wiping my brow-phew, I think too many colours for me to get my little head around! But I did it! Now do I try to finish those 'creations' I have laying around or go back to my safe colour combos?

I'm a Verve Challenge Champion with Mojo!

2009-04-17T12:47:00.007+08:00

As I mentioned last post there are some challenges happening for the release of new Verve stamps. While I don't own any Verve stamps I won't say no to a chance at winning some!

3 sketches & a colour challenge...

For this card I used River Rock, Blue Bayou & Choc Chip. Stamped the Bouquet roller with Versamark,added some paper from Spring Fling & made a paper flower with 5 scrunched & sponged layers.
Basic Black base, Basic Grey-top half embossed with swiss dots folder, some Flirty pink paper on the bottom half, brads, sponging etc etc! oh & the stamps are from Always set.

This one was fun! I bought some clear stamps from "the Cats Pyjamas" a little while back & this was the first time they got inky...Colours are Kraft, Blue Bayou & Real Red. The background swirls is a stamp from 'Judikins' I inked it with Versamark & swiped Bayou over it. After that I added some accent with a white gel pen.

For the colour challenge I used the Mojo Monday sketch #82 for inspiration....Kraft base, some Heidi Grace paper, a little soft sky & the stamps are Pink Paislee - 'Retro Spring'

Have a great weekend!

Viva la Verve 1,2 & 3

2009-04-14T20:55:00.008+08:00

I don't know what's going on...I've managed to clean the house, do the grocery shopping & found time to stamp! WOO-HOO!! These cards are for a challenge over on splitcoaststampers.com They give you a sketch challenge with a {twist} Let me tell you some of the {twists} are doozies! First sketch with a {twist} of using a sentiment stamp only

I used the 'Yummy' set from Stampin' Up. Colours are Not Quite Navy,Real Red & Kraft and the paper is from the Ginger Blossom pack. A little bit of bling & some sweet silk ribbon-all done!

Sketch challenge 2 with a {twist} of using background stamp(s). This was a good one for me because I love those big stamps! (i only have 3 of them-but I do love 'em!) I used Tres Chic & Wild Hearts. I also used the words from Friendship Blooms & a heart stamp from Judikins.

I did use a little creative license on this sketch & left out the panel with the scalloped top & rounded bottom-I added the scallop border along the top of the card & used a nestabilities die shape which kind of gives that rounded shape...

And the 3rd sketch challenge had a {twist} of a colour combo. This is one of those doozies I mentioned earlier...wait for it...More Mustard, Summer Sun & Baja Breeze!! First of all I thought "YUCK!" Then I thought "Oh, what a shame, I can't do that challenge-no Baja Breeze" (phew) Then I read-if you don't have these exact colours, just improvise. Now I'm back to thinking "Yuck!" Oh well, I umm'd & ahhh'd for a while (still thinking yuck!) But in the end I must admit I am really quite happy with the end result. While I won't be racing out to buy a whole pack of more mustard or summer sun cardstock, I will try to use the small amount I do own! I improvised with some blue bazzill instead of the Baja Breeze & added in some Choc Chip, Sahara Sand & White and used my Paisley background stamp, Petal Prints & Lots of Thoughts. What do you think of the end result? What is your least fave colour?

I think there is a 4th challenge to finish out the month-stay tuned...

I found some more cool challenges on the Verve blog, with some sketch & colour combo challenges plus a chance to win some sweet Verve stamps-I'm off to have a little play....

I'm back with Mojo and OCCC

2009-04-11T19:53:00.008+08:00

Did ya think I'd disappeared off the planet?? I was starting to wonder myself! Life has been crazy busy around here lately & I don't really know where the last 3 months have gone...Ok, that's a lie, I do know where they've gone-they've included trips to perth, hospital visits, couple of days work a week which also means daycare, housework,throw a couple of weddings in for good measure!, buying more of the farm we live on, I think we had a holiday back in Feb! and most recently, I had my 4 wisdom teeth taken out on Thursday.
So, NO stamping for me : ( Actually I did get to a stamp night a few weeks ago-I made 4 or 5 cards but before I could put them up here Mum 'borrowed' them for some ideas, Hi Mum, yes you can keep them!! I decided yesterday that I was going to stamp & found there was a new mojo monday sketch out-it took me ALL day but I did it!

Here's the sketchI used the Always stamp set for this one & the little heart is from In the Spotlight (hostess set).I also used my Paisley background stamp & some ribbon & brads out of the stash. Card base is Chocolate Chip, Paisley is Soft Sky on Soft Sky. I've stamped the bird, hearts & always on Kraft with Choc Chip & Purely Pomegranate with Close to Cocoa/Choc Chip sponging on all but the bird.

For my next card (2 cards in one night!!) I followed a sketch challenge from Our CreativeCorner For this one I used a new fave background-Tres Chic & Embrace Life. I started with a black base, layered with Basic Grey stamped with Tres Chic in Versamark. A little bit of paper from the Ginger Blossom pack, some peircing & a bit of bling.I also used my Border punch-Florentine.

Here is the OCC sketch challenge

And here is my card

Have a great Easter-hopefully I can replace munching on chocolate with stamping!!

Makeesha's New Year sketch

2009-01-12T19:39:00.005+09:00

Makeesha is back from a break away from blogging & all revived to inkspire us all once again-yay! Here is her sketch, with a chance to win a tin of the new Felt Fusion flowers from Stampin Up! so very generous of her isn't it???

It's a good one isn't it? Here's what I created...

I started with an always artichoke base & embossed with swiss dots. I stamped a piece of river rock c/s with my Paisley BG stamp in river rock ink. Punched a piece of white c/s with my new Fiskars border punch-Florentine, top & bottom & wrapped with a length of ribbon. I stamped the little bird from Celebrate Everyday once on white & again on some of the leftover paisley/river rock piece. I cut out the river rock bird & mounted her up with foam dimensionals, also coloured her heart & flower band with purely pomegranate. Sponged the edges with river rock & mounted on river rock then purely pomegranate c/s. I punched out a 1" circle of pomegranate & a 3/4" circle from the paisley/river rock piece, attached an American Crafts flower & a button from the stash. I originally stamped 'just because' straight onto my paisley piece (once it was all stuck down & I knew as i was doing it I would regret it...) didn't like it-too flat, so I punch out a round tab out of the paisley/river rock piece & stamped 'thank you' onto it. It slid in nicely under the panel & I left the tab open for a bit more dimension, you can kinda see a shadow in the photo. I like...You like???

Viva la Verve 1 & 2

2009-01-12T18:02:00.012+09:00

I found some challenges (with a twist) over at splitcoaststampers

on the verve forum- here is week 1 & week 2

Viva la Verve 01(week 1) sketch had a 'twist' of hardware, I got so carried away with my card, I nearly forgot to put some metal on! I have used Heidi Grace papers, Blue Bayou Stampin' Up cardstock & White Bazzill, Good Things Grow & Blooming with Happiness stamp sets. I wrapped a piece of pink ribbon around the long panel with a metal pinwheel & attached a couple of Making Memories photo corners on the top panel. I mounted the Good Things Grow stamped image onto a 'postage stamp' die cut & some foam mount tape. The sentiment in the bottom corner reads 'may your day bloom with happiness'.

Viva la Verve 02 (week 2) had a 'twist' of bling

For this one I started with a piece of Bazzill Bling cardstock-nice & sparkly! Embossed a panel of silver with "Diamonds in the Rough' bug embossing folder, mounted on black bazzill & bordered with Heidi Swapp bling frames. The larger panel is white with sponging all around the edges & flower-doesn't show up too well in the photo.Stamps are some new Basic Grey acrylic stamps I picked up on the weekend-very cute & had to ink them up as soon as I got home (nearly!) I also used my new Fiskars border punch on the black mat of this larger panel & also the bling frame. The butterfly was stamped in white onto the bazzill bling c/s& cut out, with a touch of 'pixie stick' glitter-also new! and the flower & surrounds has a dusting of some glittery concoction, also a bit hard to see in the photo. I finished it off with some piercing in the corners &

mounted it up on foam for some dimension. Here is a bit of a close up...

Verve Challenge Champion!

2009-01-09T16:25:00.008+09:00

Here are the other 3 challenges from the Verve 'Looking for Love' release-fingers crossed I might be lucky enough to win something...

and because I got all 4 challenges completed before the deadline, I'm apparently a Verve Challenge Champion! I think that means there are more chances to win stuff!

Mojo 68 & a Verve colour challenge

2009-01-09T12:18:00.007+09:00

I got one card out of 2 challenges this time,which was good because I had more challenges to get to! This one is for Mojo Monday #68 & also a Verve Stamps (Poetic Artistry) new release challenge ( 1 of 4 so there's more to come very soon) The challenge was to use Red Riding Hood (not available is oz) Blush Blossom & Kraft or we could substitute similar colours, which was great because I had NONE of these exact colours!

First of all the mojo sketchand the colour samples

and my card

I'll be back soon with the other 3 Verve challenge cards...

Mr Will

2009-01-04T19:51:00.003+09:00

Some layouts from Will's album...I really wanted to scrap this ultrasound photo, but wasn't too sure how to go about it for a while. In the end I went half pink half blue and just journalled what we were thinking, what the old ring test predicted, how his legs were pulled up in the photo so we couldn't see anything & that we didn't really want to know-surprises are good!, that we really didn't mind either way-pink or blue-loved all the same, always! I used Basic Grey Gypsy line for the patterned paper & tried to balance it with some plain paper from the same line.

This one was a pagemaps sketch challenge over at aussiescrapbooking

This one uses Kaisercraft paper. I used one side for the dotty strip & cut out the quotes from the other side. Some white Basic Grey rub-ons, a 'ghost' arrow, bottle top embellishment & that's it. I did the journalling on a stamped tag which is from the set 'Stamp of Authority' from Stampin' Up.

For this layout I followed Jill's instructions at aussiescrapbooking
She ran some BAL's (Build A Layout) basically each day for 6 days you were given one or two instructions on what to do. No-one had any idea how their layout would look at the end of the week! Hopefully Jill did ; )

A couple of wedding layouts

2009-01-04T19:43:00.002+09:00

Even though we got married 3 years ago, I haven't scrapped all of the wedding photos I would like to-maybe for every Will page I should do one of us...

For this one I used a bunch of Basic Grey tags as a border around my photo, with journalling & a little bit of doodling in the corners. I painted the chipboard letters & did 2 or 3 layers of embossing powder to give a really good shine.

This one uses lots of rub-ons & some chipboard hearts.

London Bridge & Lake Louise

2009-01-04T19:31:00.003+09:00

I drew a doodled frame for my journalling on this one & used the 'London Bridge' wording in the photo for my title. That is etched in the side of the bridge & I took a photo as we cruised past-unfortunately that old man in the corner wasn't smiling for my shot!

For this layout I used a clear 'travel' themed overlay. It has some words & writing on it which I put a lick of paint on the back of the words I wanted to highlight.

Newsflash...Cropadile attacks chipboard!

2009-01-04T17:52:00.007+09:00

I decided to finally get to & make Will's nameplate for his door. I took some photos along the way so you can see how easy it was - & I'm using up stash!

First of all, find some chip letters-if you don't have any I'm sure I have enough to share!

Next attack your shapes or letters with a cropadile, I went for indents so when I wiped the ink over, the chipboard colour showed through.

Pretty basic-next you wipe over the chipboard with your ink pad. I used Stampin' Up "Buckaroo Blue" to match the colour scheme, but I have used chalk ink before & I do prefer that softer/creamy look. Up to you-have a play & see what you prefer.

All done? If the ink looks too dark, swipe very gently with some white ink or too light, swipe with more colour. I also drew some dash/faux sewing lines around the edges with my white gel pen.

Finish your masterpiece!! I attached my letters onto a small canvas, which I ran my textured wheel & buckaroo blue over & added some Basic Grey 'black tie' ribbons

Simple hey?
You could use your altered letters or shapes on scrapbook pages, cards, tags for Christmas & birthday presents, kids school books, your family hat/coat rack...the list goes on!

On the layout below I used chalk ink on the letters.

Mojo 64

2009-01-04T15:41:00.004+09:00

I'm a little behind -ok make that a lot! behind in the whole mojo sketch thing, but I'm ok with that...I'll get some more done I'm sure ; )

Here's #64

and here's mine (plus I used some stuff out of my scrap box! I can nearly close the lid now, hehehe!

I also get to tick another stamp off my list! Yay for me ; )
{see previous post on 'using all my stamps'}

This one uses Sidekick Sayings & some Basic Grey 'Blush' paper & ricrac from SU Flirty ribbons pack.

Is it possible to use every stamp I own?

2009-01-04T14:44:00.006+09:00

I would like to use every Stampin' Up set I own before I buy anymore, possibly even every stamp!?! Can I do it?...that new summer mini catalogue has definately got my name all over it! Plus it's Sale-A-Bration time...free stamps, oh my!

Here's a start to using as many stamps as possible & lots of stuff out of my paper scraps/stash box...good luck to me : )

Celebrate Everyday & Stem Silhouettes

Petals roller & A Little Love (with Iris folding)
Paisley BG & Stem Silhouettes
Paisley BG & Lots of Thoughts
Petal Prints & Lots of Thoughts

A Little Love & Distressed Stripe Cuttlebug folder ( better get some use out of that too!)

Brushed Swirls -not Stampin' Up but it's in my stash so it needs using! It's Judikins if anyone's interested & a very handy stamp.

Celebrate Everyday & some SU designer prints paper & cuttlebug

That's a start anyway, but I think I'm going to need a list of what I have & what I'm using...might be able to keep track that way, or I could just trust myself not to give up early...hmmm-mind is wandering to thoughts of the mini catalogue already! Eeeep ; )

Silly season +1st birthday = no time for craftiness

2009-01-04T12:15:00.005+09:00

I'm sure everyone is too busy during the silly season to get crafty (unless you don't need sleep??) I found out just over 12 months ago that sleep really is over-rated...

here's why...

Anyway, here we are a whole silly season later, still busy, still not sleeping, everyone sick and having a 1st birthday! woo-hoo : ) This is how we celebrated...

The Cake...

and the eating of the cake!

We laughed so much at Will eating his cake-I took about twenty shots all 'NO HANDS cake eating style'! Maybe it's all the rage in toddlerville??? Oh well, it should make an interesting page in his album!

Hopefully you enjoy your birthday cakes as much as this!

Mmmm...chocolate!

2009-01-04T12:01:00.003+09:00

Check out these guys for some chocolate indulgence...YUM!

You know you want some....

if so, just do this - crumble a cake (about 350gms) I used gingerbread cos I made one for something else & burnt the edges-damn! Beat 125g cream cheese til smooth, mix in 1 cup nutella & crumbs. Roll into balls, pop in freezer til firm again. Roll around in melted chocolate, once set, dribble white chocolate on top (or actual dribble if you can't help yourself!) & decorate with some m&m's or similar before the white choc sets.

CHOMP!

Enjoy x

More layouts

2009-01-04T11:56:00.001+09:00

I'm glad I took the time to scrap a lot of our overseas trip-probably a whole lot more to scrap though...

More scrapping

2009-01-04T11:52:00.002+09:00

Some more layouts-I feel like I'm actually getting layouts done by uploading them on here!

Some scrapbook layouts.

2009-01-04T11:40:00.006+09:00

Just a few layouts - I think most of them were themes or challenges on aussiescrapbooking.com.au

* Edited to add-'Sitting up' uses In the Spotlight' stamp set. See later post on 'using all my stamps' This layout also uses a cool technique for altering chipboard...maybe I could do a 'how to' post on that...Stay tuned!

A couple of oldies...

2009-01-02T12:41:00.007+09:00

Here are a couple of challenges I did before the silly season-looking forward to doing some more! What challenges do you like to participate in?
This one was from Poetic Artistry- Mojo Monday now has it's very own blog, if you need some mojo on a Monday, then check out mojomonday.blogspot.com

Here's what I did with the sketch-I actually had time to do it twice! yay!

This next one was a challenge from 'Our Creative Corner' & I really quite like how it turned out!

This is the sketch we were given...

2009-01-01T16:21:00.003+09:00

Here is Kristina's colour challenge. Her 36th, my 1st!

This is what I did with it...

Simple you say? That's what I say now that it's done, but I did struggle a little before it came together-It started as a rose red circular card, then an old olive narrow/long card, then in the end I played safe & stuck with the good old 'white' space. I think I'm ok with it.....

the small print... white- bazzill, old olive & rose red -Stampin' Up, pink ribbon, button & rub ons-stash, stamps: brushed swirls & block heart- both Judikins, swiss dots cuttlebug embossing folder.

First timer...

2009-01-01T11:54:00.000+09:00

Happy New Year!!! I'm assuming someone will read this before it gets too far into 2009-maybe?
Anyway I have a blog...don't know if I need one, but thought it might be a good place to post some of my cards & layouts ( when I get time to make some..) It might make me do some of the challenges I come across rather than just ooh & ahh about them. So here goes, this is my blog, I hope I can get something on here worth looking at-that is if there's anyone out there to look ; )
I guess this is my "try something new in the new year " thing! What's yours?
Here's to a happy & safe 2009 x