Gardner's Basket

Tags for a Swap

2011-09-25T07:37:00.000-07:00

These tags were made for 2 Tag Swaps. The first I inked the edges of the tag with Palette Ink (Green Leaf), added K & Co. paper. The bird and birdcage were cut using Tim Holtz's Bird and Cage die. They were cut from some thin, black chipboard I had. After I cut the birds I embossed them with Cuttlebug's Swirls die and used Gold and Green Patina Pearl Effects to bring out the texture. The birdcage was painted with Picket Fence crackle paint. The butterfly charm was made with shrink plastic (Inkadinkado's Mindscape's butterfly image). The cage was finished off with pink dew drops.

The second tag was made with Cosmo Cricket's Get Campy paper. The images are from Heartfelt Creations (and I used their matching dies for the leaves). The rhinestones were some I had on hand (from Michael's, I think). Thanks for looking!!

PTT Challenge #29

2011-08-22T18:20:00.000-07:00

I've been feeling blah, lately. So, I checked out blogmate, Jenn's challenge Blog (Party Time Tuesdays) for a little inspiration. This week's challenge was a Sketch Challenge. I flipped it on its side. I went with a fall theme since I'm getting ready for "Back to School." My students come to me next Tuesday. It's hard to believe summer is over. Thanks for looking!

Stamps: Sweet Pea Stamps (Elaine Cox's Katie), Sentiment by {ippity} (Music of my Heart)

Paper: Kraft, Scrap paper and cardstock

Misc.: Leaves were stamped and (die) cut from Heartfelt Creations Autumn Splendor Collection

Image colored with Bic permanent and Copic markers

Project #14

2011-08-17T11:05:00.000-07:00

Another Swap finished!! I'm in an Altered Journal Swap for my Project 31, Day 6 I showed you the first of 8 journals I made. Here are all 8, finally finished. Thanks for looking!!

I'm back and trying to catch up!

2011-08-16T11:05:00.000-07:00

I have been crafting this summer, despite my being MIA from my blog. I joined a "Handmade Secret Sister Swap" and this is what I made for my sister(s) - I took 2 spots.

Project #10

These are handmade Carnation Peony Cabochon embellishments. I used Premo (fimo clay) and silicone molds (found here) from Mold Muse.

A close up:

Project #11

Porcelain Cameos
These were made with an air dry porcelain compound pressed into silicone molds. Once the porcelain was dry I painted the background with acrylic paint and brushed the relief with white acrylic paint.
A close up:

Project #12

Handmade Flowers
The flowers on the left were made with Websters Pages' netting, tissue paper and beads for the center. I ran the netting and tissue paper through the Cuttlebug using Tim Hotz' s Tattered Flowers die. I then layered the tissue and netting flowers and held them together with a singe needle and thread stitch. Finally, I sewed the bead in the middle. The flowers on the right were made with the Flower Shoppe cartridge and my Cricut machine. I used a glue and a brad to hold these blossoms together. The paper was left over from other projects.
Close-up:

More flowers, the middle is made with cardstock and flower die and the two smaller were cut with Cricut and Prima bling is used for the center.
Project #13

The gift tag, I used alcohol ink for the edges. The background paper is a page out of a novel lightly stamped with a dandelion image ({ippity}). The sentiment says "for you."
Thanks for looking!!

Project 31 - Day 9

2011-07-24T06:03:00.000-07:00

This is an altered matchbox. I used glass floral marbles for the feet. The knob is a rose shaped bead attached with an office brad. The paper is K & Co. The embellishments on top are a combination of Webster's Pages' floral bunch, rose trim, and beaded trim from the bridal dept. (at Michael's). It was a lot of fun to make. I simply covered the matchbox cover with paper. The drawer was made from Bazzill cardstock (I used the box's original for a template), much easier than covering the original.

Project 31 - Day 8

2011-07-23T06:03:00.000-07:00

Just a simple card today. On SCS my friend Janice (jabauer) hosted a stitched flower swap. You had to stamp on fabric and sew too. For me, a lot easier said then done. I only sew in (somewhat) straight lines. This is an example of my flower.

The flower was stamped using an {ippity} stamp (Now & Always) and the paper flowers in the middle were attached with a jewel brad. I used fancy labels (Spellbinders) for the sentiment and Labels 2 with swirls embossing folder (Cuttlebug) for the green. The background paper is Recollections.

Project 31 - Day 7

2011-07-22T07:28:00.000-07:00

My friend Sharon became a Grandmother on July 2. This is her first grandchild, and she is so excited!! I made this mini album for her to fill with all the pictures of Taaji. I used papers and embellishments I had. I've been hoarding a lot. Here's the inside and the back cover.

Thanks for looking!

Project 31 - Day 6

2011-07-21T14:54:00.000-07:00

I'm in an Altered Journal Swap on SCS. I decided to make mine with a fantasy theme (fairies and mermaids). I just finished the fairy journal. The paper is from K & Co. The images are Sweet Pea Stamps colored with Bic Permanent Markers and Copics. For this swap, not only did you have to decorate the front, you had to decorate a few pages too. The mermaid/fairy on the left is actually a bookmark that detaches from the journal (if you'd like).

This is the inside cover. I made a pocket with Nesties (Labels 2, I think). There are punched tabs (SU) in the baggie for the owner to attach later.

This is a pocket made with a 61/2 x 9 in. mailing envelope. The idea was Scraphead's (Pat). These images are from Inkadinkado "Mindscapes" and "Fairies."

Picture of the bookmark, marking a page.

I just stamped 2 random pages with fairy images.

Thanks for looking!

Project 31 - Day 5

2011-07-20T07:21:00.000-07:00

The last of the cards made for Debby's mother.

Project 31 - Day 4

2011-07-19T07:18:00.000-07:00

More cards made with swapped images and Cosmo Cricket's, "Wanted" paper. The stars were made with silver Sculpey clay. Thanks for looking!

Project 31 - Day 3

2011-07-18T07:15:00.000-07:00

Here are two more cards made for Debby's mother. The card on the left was made with stickers given to me and the image on the card on the right was from a swap. The paper is from Cosmo Cricket, "Wanted."

Thanks for looking!

Project 31 - Day 2

2011-07-17T07:13:00.000-07:00

Another friend, Debby, asked me to make some cards for her mother (who's 91). Debby is at a loss as to what to give her mother these days. So I made cards for her to give to her great-grandchildren and grandchildren on their birthdays. The images are from some image swaps and the paper is from my organized scrap bin. The birthday sentiments are {ippity}. Thanks for looking!

Project 31 - Take Two

2011-07-16T09:22:00.000-07:00

Awhile ago my friend, Sharon, asked me to make a mini album for her to give to her mother. I told her to give me her pictures and I would make the album using her pictures as inspiration. This was supposed to be a Mother's Day gift. I'm still waiting on the pictures. So, I decided to take a new approach - make the album and let Sharon put the pictures in the album. Here's the album. It is a "Birdhouse Mini Album," Laura Denison designed it. You can get the pattern here, Follow the Paper Trail with Laura.

Sharon's mother loves to work in her flower garden (and they have a flat in Paris, France). So I thought she would like this birdhouse with toile paper. Where's the album? Lift the roof and the album slides out of the top of the house.

Paper: Mostly Recollections printed cardstock (and assorted papers I had on hand)
Misc: 7 Gypsies flowers, Tim Holtz Box Feet, Bird and Butterfly from Michael's, Prima Bling

Time to Pick a Winner!!!

2011-07-05T14:20:00.000-07:00

Who knew there would be so many different ways to use two (4x6) pieces of pattern paper? I knew my blogging friends would step up to the challenge and boy did they ever!! Wonderful job ladies. I am in constant awe of your creativity and talents. Now for the hard part to pick a winner. The winner will receive this newly released {ippity} mini stamp set (released today actually) and a few other goodies from me.

Here's the entries:

Danie's Card

Karen's Card

Rebekka's Card

Lynn's Card

Kelly's Card

Tammy's Card

Christy's Card

Heather's Card

Julie's Card

TUIC June Challenge

2011-06-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

It is my turn to host Tangled Up In Creativity's Challenge for June. Hopefully all members have received their pieces of paper. If you haven't please email me (monicasilcott@yahoo.com) and I'll get them out to you right away. My challenge was simple use the paper (one piece or both) I sent to create something wonderful. Here's my sample. I went simple. You have until Monday, July 4 to complete the challenge. We will vote for a winner (probably July 5-7). Your prize should you win, a set of {ippity} stamps (from the new release).

TUIC May Challenge

2011-06-05T16:58:00.000-07:00

For May's Challenge Tangled Up In Creativity's Kelly is hosting: create a project with purple and at least one flower (check out her blog, here). I'm also in former TUIC member Molly (Miss Molly Creations), SCS swap. For Molly's swap we had to create a card with flowers and embossing. Thanks for looking!

Paper: Recollections cardstock and pattern paper

Ink: Pallette - Purple

Stamps: {ippity}

Misc: Cuttlebug Swirls embossing folder, Tim Holtz Flower die, Studio 18 gem

*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

My 31 Day Challenge - Day 3

2011-05-03T18:01:00.000-07:00

The Social Work Intern at my school is expecting her second child. Friday is her last day with us. I made her this box to keep all the important momentos from the baby's first year. I followed Marion Smith's directions, (here) with a few altered measurements, to make the box. The paper is from DCWV Nanna's Nursery (Baby Boy). When you open the box, this is what you'll find:

I hope she likes it.

For those of you keeping track Day 3 without buying any pattern paper (just 242 days to go).

My 31 Day Challenge - Day 2

2011-05-02T17:46:00.000-07:00

Today's project- Vintage Altered Box

I bought this box (paper mache) from Hobby Lobby. I painted it English Navy, glued torn pattern paper on top and then used a medium antiquing stain over the entire box. I then glued vintage findings to the top. The rhinestone flourish is by Prima Marketing (as are the ones on the sides of the box). The roses are from the Dollar Tree. The feet of the box were made from wooden flower pots painted blue (and stained) and then glued to the bottom.

Pics of the sides:

This will be going to a friend in a swap with me. Thanks for looking!

My 31 Day Challenge - Day 1

2011-05-01T05:48:00.000-07:00

I know what you're thinking, "what on earth is she doing now?" I few days ago, I stumbled upon Marion Smith's 31 Day Challenge (here YouTube channel, here). She really doesn't have a lot of requirements, just do one project a day for 31 days. So I'm going to give this a try. The project I took on today, taking this pile of scrap paper and organizing it in a way that will be useful to me. I used to organize my scrap pieces by color (all reds together, etc), then I organized them by size (all 12" strips together, all pieces smaller than 4x4 together, etc). I found I never went back to those piles when I was making a card. So I took this pile and I separated the pattern paper ( putting coordinating patterns together). Then I put the solid scraps that matched the pattern paper together. I ended up with 25 bags like this:

Now, I just reach for a bag when I need to make a card. An on going challenge for me: NOT buy another piece of pattern paper for the rest of this year. We'll see, I'll be lucky if I can keep to that for the month of May. If I successfully use up this stash, I'll move on and do the same with my boxes of (6x8, 6x6, and 4x6) papers. On thing at a time.

TUIC April Challenge #2

2011-05-01T04:57:00.000-07:00

Heather (Stamping Mommy) is hosting the second of our blog group's April Challenges. Her challenge to use the saying "April showers bring May flowers" as your inspiration. The paper is scrap from my stash, the flowers were made from taking a stem of silk flowers apart and gluing dew drops in the center. The image is from The Greeting Farm (I got it in an image swap). I colored her hair and skin with Copic markers and the rest of her was colored with Bic permanent markers and Faber-Castill India Ink markers. TFL!

TUIC April Challenge #1

2011-05-01T04:50:00.000-07:00

Jenn (Jax Bean Stalks) is hosting (one of) the blog group's April challenges. Her challenge to use the newspaper on your card. I chose to make flowers. I used Sizzix Flower Die #3, the centers were make from an EK Success punch with a pearl or rhinestone brad to hold them together. The image is from a cracker box. I don't know which I like more the box the crackers come in or the taste of the crackers. I can only get them at the Korean grocery store, the entire box is written in Korean so I can't even give you the name of them. They are sesame seed crackers with sugar sprinkled on top, yes the perfect sweet/salty mix. TFL!

Sew, You Bake a Latte

2011-04-14T03:04:00.000-07:00

A very good friend of mine is celebrating a birthday on the 20th. Since I am thrifty, I decided to make her this recipe book. She loves to sew, bake, and drink coffee. The background paper is from Cosmo Cricket (Material Girl Collection). The recipes are for coffee cakes (Maple Pecan Brunch Ring, Mocha Brownie Torte, Cherry Cheese Coffee Cake, Cappuccino Mousse Trifle, and Starbucks™ Classic Cinnamon Coffee Cake)

Here's a peek inside:

Thanks for looking!

*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

TUIC March Challenge

2011-03-28T18:58:00.000-07:00

Fellow Tangled Up In Creativity Blog Group member, Dawn, is hosting this month's challenge. We had to create a card inspired by the saying, "March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb." Ribbon also had to be used on the card. Here is my entry. The lion image is by Inkadinkado and I made the charm. The charm was made by stamping the lamb image with Stazon ink onto a piece of #6 recycled plastic (carryout container) and then when heated with the heat gun (shrinks like polyshrink).

Here's a close up of the charm:

I've also been working on a swap:

Each member of the swap group was sent an image and had to come up with a card. The image Michelle sent was 3 Easter eggs in a row with a hatching chick in the middle. I colored and cut it apart. This layout was inspired by one I had seen in a magazine. It was fun.

Thanks for looking!

*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

Sunday, March 6, 2011 TUIC Challenges - Altered Notebook

2011-03-06T08:04:00.000-08:00

Christy of Lone Pine Designs was one of our hostesses for our blog group's, Tangled Up in Creativity, challenges for the month of February. Please visit her blog, here. This time we were to alter a notebook. This was a cute journal I found in Michael's $1 bin. The original cover had a picture of a wheel barrow filled with gardening tools and plants. I decided to make it cuter with this little gardener image. I believe she came from an image swap. I colored her with a combination if Bic Permanent and Copic Markers.

Here's a close-up of the image:

*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

TUIC Challenges - Vintage Summer

2011-03-06T07:59:00.000-08:00

For our blog group's, Tangled Up In Creativity, second challenge Rebekka of A Diamond in the Rough (check out her beautiful cards, here) wanted us to make a card with a vintage summer theme. The image is actually cut out from Daisy D's Back to School scrapbook paper collection. The sentiment is by Inkadinkado. I used craft and blue cardstock from Michael's. I made the flower yoyo (my new addiction) and used one of Jenni Bowlin's vintage buttons for the center. The fiber is a crocheted chain, I'm trying to teach myself how to crochet. It is a bit of a challenge since I am left-handed. All the talented people who can crochet I know are right-handed and find it extremely frustrating to teach me. Thank goodness for YouTube.

Here are a few more close-ups:

Thanks for looking!

*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

Creating Again

2011-02-27T05:35:00.000-08:00

It feels good to be creating again. My family has been sick for 3 weeks (Hubby still has pneumonia, but is getting better). The house is starting to look like civilized people live in it (as opposed to wild animals). I'm trying to finish the laundry, so between loads I'm working on a swap. This is for a Coffee, Tea, Cocoa ABAC (Anything But a Card) swap. This holder contains 4 Taster's Choice instant coffee packets. I'm very proud to say I made the flower yo-yo myself (and the pearl pin too). Clover (they make needle craft products) makes this template that is super easy to follow.

I hear the dryer buzzer. Thanks for looking!

Close-Up of Yo-Yo

Coffee inside:

Paper: scrap, (yellow cardstock is from Wal-Mart)
Stamps: {ippity} Totally Happy (for YOU sentiment)
Ink: Palette - Noir
Misc: Stampin' Up Tag punches, ribbon, fabric, brads, pearl quilting pin with bead added
*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

Party Time Tuesdays' Challenge

2011-02-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

Fellow Tangled Up In Creativity member, Jenn, is the proud new owner of Party Time Tuesdays! Check out all the fun details for this week's challenge, here.

The winner will receive Regal Greetings stamp kit by {ippity} stamps.

I've been wanting to make a steampunk style card for awhile, so here's my first attempt. Here are a few close-ups of some of this card's elements.

The chandelier image is from {ippity}'s Regal Greetings. I used American Crafts' Black Zing embossing powder to add a little shimmer to the image. The blue cardstock is by Recollections (Michael's brand), and the oval is mounted on black cardstock cut with a scallop oval nestie. The pattern paper was made by stamping the key and heart images from {ippity}'s Music of My Heart with Tim Holtz's Tea Bag distressed ink on parchment paper.

The clock work pieces I had (who knows why), the clock face is attached with a brad (prongs showing on the front for "hands").

The black lace and blue organza are scraps. The charm is leftover from a previous project.

Thanks for looking!

If you are interested in learning more about {ippity} visit my {ippity} blog, here.

*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

Magical Monday Challenge #14 Flowers

2011-01-27T17:54:00.000-08:00

This week's Magical Monday Challenge is "flowers." Check here for details. I've had these pot roses for years (probably decades). Since they sit so high on the card, I had to make SCS's tutorial for this week "envelope gift box." Click here for tutorial.

And here they are as a set:

Thanks for looking!!

Stamps: Sweet Pea Stamps - Blue Rose Tatoo

Ink: Memento - Tuxedo Black, Copic, Bic, and Faber-Castill markers

Paper: K & Co., DCWV Cardstock, GP 110

Misc: scrap lace, pot roses, scrap decorative trim

*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

Magical Monday Challenge

2011-01-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

This card was created for Magical Monday's Challenge, Gothic Angelz. You are to create a card with a "dark angel." I know this is a fairy image. All my angel images are too wholesome. She was fun to color and I love deep purple, so it was win-win for me. Thanks for looking.

Paper: DCWV (Black Currant Stack), Gray Bazzill card stock, Black American Crafts card stock

Image: Sweet Pea Stamps (Red Heart)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic Markers and Bic Markers (did you know they are alcohol ink?)

Misc: Ribbon (Dollar Tree), button, rhinestone

*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

Blog Candy Winner - Dawn Mercedes - Congratulations!!

2011-01-16T14:57:00.000-08:00

Well the time has come to pick a winner. Here's how I numbered everyone, from my dashboard I listed all my followers of "Gardner's Basket" in order they appear on the list. Then I added the followers for "Gardner's {ippity} Basket." Next, if you had left a comment on a "Gardner's Basket" posting between the announcement of the Blog Candy and when I woke up this morning (7:30 AM EST), I added your name (have to show love for the ones who give me love). Finally to the end of the list I added my followers again.

1. Becky
2. The Navy Wife
3. Julie Short
4. Cards by Candy
5. Diane (djuseless)
6. Danie M
7. April O'Connor
8. Jen (Jen's Cup of Creations)
9. Dawn Mercedes
10. LonePineDesigns
11. Lynn McAuley
12. EmKay
13. {jennie}
14. Beatriz Rubio De Kimmel
15. TammyLee
16. Julie E
17. Rose
18. kgilbert

19. Lynn (Millers-ink)

20. Cindy
21. Jenn (Jax Bean Stalk)
22. Tammy Hair
23. Betty Wright
24. Sweetieshop
25. pschultecrwx2002
26. jennifer mitten
27. dan g
28. Vickie
29. Traci S
30. camishel
31. jimlynn01
32. coolmom210
33. creative patti
34. Sheryl Kelly
35. heatherboulicault
36. Stephanie Zito
37. cpowers356
38. jimlynn
39. lynn (millers-ink)
40. Tammy Hair
41. LonePineDesigns
42. PurpleCardLady
43. Dani M.
44. Julie E
45. Traci S
46. Jen Mitten
47. Jenn (Jax Bean Stalk)
48. {jennie}
49. Kelly Smith
50. pschultecrwx2002
51. sweetieshop
52. jimlynn
53. lynn (millers-ink)
54. Karen
55. Purple Card Lady
56. Dani M
57. Lynn McAuley
58. MollyD
59. Kelly Smith
60. Traci S
61. MollyD
62. Becky
63. jimlynn
64. LonePineDesigns
65. Julie (Time to Create....)
66. Lynn McAuley
67. Tammy Hair
68. Jenn (Jax Bean Stalk)
69. Dawn Mercedes
70. EmKay
71. Julie (Time to Create....)
72. Tammy Hair
73. LonePineDesigns
74. Becky
75. jimlynn
76. EmKay
77. Traci S
78. Paige
79. Lynn McAuley
80. MollyD
81. Karen
82. Kelly Spivey
83. Kelly Smith
84. Dani M
85. LonePineDesigns
86. Becky
87. Rose
88. Traci S
89. Tammy Hair
90. Dani M
91. Dani M
92. Julie (Time to Create....)
93. LonePineDesigns
94. Becky
95. The Navy Wife
96. Julie Short
97. Cards by Candy
98. Diane (djuseless)
99. Danie M
100. April O'Connor
101. Jen (Jen's Cup of Creations)
102. Dawn Mercedes
103. LonePineDesigns
104. Lynn McAuley
105. EmKay
106. {jennie}
107. Beatriz Rubio De Kimmel
108. TammyLee
109. Julie E
110. Rose
111. kgilbert
112. Lynn (Millers-ink)
113. Cindy
114. Jenn (Jax Bean Stalk)
115. Tammy Hair
116. Betty Wright

117. Sweetieshop
118. pschultecrwx2002
119. jennifer mitten
120. dan g
121. Vickie
122. Traci S
123. camishel
124. jimlynn01
125. coolmom210
126. creative patti
127. Sheryl Kelly
128. heatherboulicault
129. Stephanie Zito
130. cpowers356

Molly's Challenge

2011-01-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

Molly from our blog group, Tangled Up In Creativity, is currently hosting a challenge. It is open to everyone. Check it out here. "The Challenge: Find something you were given for Christmas that inspires your creativity - take a picture. Make a card with that inspiration."

My Secret Santa (my school's secretary, Betsy) gave me this angel by Jim Shore. It is titled "Gifts from the Garden." She's beautiful. I've threatened the boys' (hubby included) lives if one of their indoor hockey games brings harm to this angel. They broke one of my Willow Creek angels with one of their hockey games last year.

Here's my card (not as lovely as the angel, but a good try):

Paper: Echo Park, Bazzill cardstock
Image: Bildmalrna Stamps (Mimosa's Flower Basket) just a note Paper Jewels is closing and has some stamps marked down, Paper Jewels.
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic Markers and Faber Castill India Ink Markers
Misc: Flowers with brad centers.
*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

Dani's TUIC Challenge

2011-01-15T07:03:00.000-08:00

The first challenge for the Tangled Up In Creativity Blog Group (TUIC) is hosted by Dani May (D-Dazzled Designs). She posses one of the most caring hearts. This year she has dedicated a lot of her time to different charities, and has even created a challenge blog devoted to charities, A Cause for Cards. Please visit and join us in helping her with her selfless work.

Back to the challenge, in honor of Australia Day we had to:

a) incorporate the Colours Green and Yellow into your card

b) make a card only utilising Cardstock - no papers, no ribbon, no bling etc

(only stamping and more cardstock, you can of course emboss, distress and cut cardstock)

You cannot imagine how hard this was for me. I put bling on everything if it sits still long enough (hubby gets worried when he comes home and rhinestones are stuck to the boys). Thanks for looking.

Here's a close-up of the image

Paper: Bazzill Cardstock

Image: Raisin Boat Stamps (Baby Face Set)

Ink: Palette Ink (Haystack, Black) Memento (London Fog), Copic Marker for face

Misc: Cuttlebug Swirls embossing folder

*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

Sweet Pea Stamps

2011-01-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Sweet Pea Stamps Dragonfly Fantasy

Sweet Pea Stamps Midnight Waiting

Sweet Pea Stamps Storytime

As you can see, I'm still playing with my new toys (Copic Markers).

The Greeting Farm

2011-01-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

TGF Dahlia

For Christmas, I bought myself a few Copic Markers. I decided to start with colors for hair color and skin tone. A few months ago, I also participated in a The Greeting Farm image swap. Just like a small child, I had to play with my new toys.

TGF Nahla (Roll Call Set)

TGF Summer (Roll Call Set)

TGF Flirty Anya (I love Clean House, here's my tribute to Niecy Nash)

Thanks for looking!

So Surprised!! Thank you Karen!!

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

Karen (Simply Said with Karen), one of my Blog-mates surprised me with this award on Friday. Please visit her blog, here, she creates the most beautiful projects (especially cards). Thank you so much for this award. Well the rules for receiving this honor are:

Thank and link back to the person who gave you this award. Thank you Karen.
Share 8 things about yourself.
Pass it on to 8 bloggers.
Contact those bloggers and tell them about their award.

8 things about myself
1. I am a mom to 2 boys (Brendan 4, and Damian 2)
2. I am a teacher (previously a classroom teacher from PreK - Gr.4), currently a Reading Teacher
3. I LOVE to craft! (Paper or Sewing)
4. My favorite foods are Chocolate and Chips with Guacamole (but not together).
5. I was a licensed Make-Up Artist (state of MD no longer issues such a license).
6. I love to learn new things (just not in a Lecture Hall setting, main reason I have not started my Masters in Ed.).
7. I want to live in Colorado or Utah.
8. Monkeys make me smile.

I pass this award on to:
1. Rose (Pink Lemonade)
2. Danie (D-Dazzled Designs)
3. Julie (Time to Create Handmade Treasure), you really need to visit this post. She wrote her on version of "Twas the Night Before Christmas." All of the members of TUIC were the characters. It is so cute and clever.
4. Kelly (Crafty Twin Mommy)
5. Traci (He IS Able)
6. Lynn (Millers-Ink)
7. Loretta (Stamping with Loretta)
8. Candy (Purple Card Lady)

Please visit each of these wonderful ladies. I promise, you will be amazed!!!

*Don't forget to enter for a chance for some Blog Candy, here.

HAPPY NEW YEAR (and Blogiversary to me)!!!

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

To celebrate my Blogiversary, I'm giving away some Blog Candy. This little tote (about 8 in. high and 12 in. wide), made by me is packed with paper crafting goodies. Wanna see?

Here's a list:

24 (6x6) sheets double sided paper (from October Afternoon, Echo Park, & Heidi Grace Designs)

46 (6x6) sheets single sided paper (from DCWV, Heidi Grace Designs, & Making Memories)

2 Hampton Art clear stamp sets (one has 25 stamps the other 29)

4 pkgs. self-adhesive rhinestones (Michael's)

2 Studio g stamps

24 Mini Glue Dots

2 pkgs Petaloo Flower Pebbles

1 small acrylic block

1 Palette Ink sample pad (Burnt Umber)

and the little tote bag

All you have to do is become a follower (if you are already a follower, you have 2 chances in the basket), and of course leaving a comment gets you another chance. I'll pick a winner on January 16, so you have until 12:00 AM on the 16th. I'll announce the winner around 6:00 PM on January 16.

12 Days of Cupcakes - Continued

2010-12-30T03:51:00.000-08:00

So, sorry for not posting this sooner. There was a memory card issue, someone thought it would be funny to hide it, luckily after all the pictures had been taken.

Day 6: Tealight Cupcake (I forgot to take a picture before I gave it, so this is from SCS)

Tutorial found here.

Day 7: Carnation Cupcake (it kind of looked like a cupcake)

Day 8: Cupcake Card Holder/Organizer

Day 9: Cupcake (Themed) Cards

Day 10: Cupcakes (This started out as a Cupcake Kit, until I found out her birthday was the next day. I couldn't have her make her own cupcakes on her birthday.)

Day 11: Cupcake Ornament

Day 12: Cupcake Gift Card Holder (tutorial found here.)

Whew! Thanks for looking.

Inktegrity Hump Day Inspiration #26

2010-12-08T00:00:00.000-08:00

This week's challenge is to use your favorite Non-traditional Holiday colors. I chose purples and white. Come and play with us here. It will be fun. I used one of Joni's new images "Baby Slusser" He's so cute.

This will probably be my posting for Inktegrity's Design Team (although I hope I have time to complete next week's challenge too). The fall term comes to an end next week. I have enjoyed my time with Inktegrity. Everyone has been very encouraging as well as inspirational. I only wish I had more time to devote to commenting on others' blogs. One of my resolutions for the new year is to comment more on the blogs I love to visit. I know how much comments mean to me, it is only right to send some love out into the blogisphere.

Thanks for looking!

Image: Baby Slusser by Inktegrity

Paper: Bazzill

Misc: Bic and Sharpie permanent markers, bling from Michael's, white organza ribbon

Twelve Days of Cupcakes

2010-12-05T09:28:00.000-08:00

Every year the teachers and staff at my school have a "12 Days of Christmas" Secret Santa/Advent Angel Exchange. This year I decided to get creative and make it a "Twelve Days of Cupcakes" Christmas. This is day one - "Spa Cupcake" inside the cupcake paper is a glass tea light holder (with candle), sitting on top is a bath poof and the "cherry" is a small rose shaped soap.

Day 2 Cupcake sticky note holder with pen

Day 3 Felt cupcake ornament (the cherry is a button, of course)

Day 4 Cupcake box (the digichick) filled with Hershey's Kisses

Day 5 Sock cupcake (rolled pair of Christmas socks wrapped with crimped paper to look like a cupcake).

You'll have to come back for the rest of the days, I can only make 5 days at a time. This idea could also be altered leading up to the days before a birthday/anniversary. Thanks for looking.

TUIC Final Challenge

2010-11-16T18:10:00.000-08:00

Thankful . . . for Prime Rib!

Jen is hosting our Blog Group (Tangled Up In Creativity)'s last challenge for 2010. Check out her creativity, here. She truly decided to go out with a BANG with this one.

Here's her challenge:

1. Your card has to have a turkey somewhere on the card.

2. Your card has to have either sewing or faux sewing somewhere on the card.

3. Your card has to have ribbon somewhere on the card.

And this is my creation. I made the turkey's feathers with scrap fall ribbon I had. I stitched "Thankful" with embroidery floss. I had fun with this. Thanks for looking!

Inktegrity Hump Day Inspiration Challenge #21

2010-11-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

This week's Inktegrity challenge is to use this sketch to create a card:

I have the hardest time with sketch challenges. My cards usually just look like the sketch. Come join us at Inktegrity (here), you'll have lots of fun. If you have a minute, check out the challenge blog to see the FABULOUS entries from last week. I was blown away!

For this week's card, I used Candy the Squirrel she's so stinkin' cute as are the other characters at Inktegrity. I used Copic markers to color Candy and Sharpie and Bic permanent markers for the acorns and pail. The sentiment is from an Inkadinkado Fall set. Thanks for looking!!

Images: Inktegrity - Candy the Squirrel, Sentiment: Inkadinkado

Paper: DCWV

Misc: Brads, brown grosgrain ribbon, Copic, Bic, and Sharpie markers

*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

Inktegrity's Hump Day Inspiration #20

2010-10-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

For Inktegrity's Hump Day Inspiration Challenge this week, it's ANYTHING GOES!! Perfect for getting me back in the craft room and creating again. Isn't this tractor and cart the cutest? Joni has so many more adorable images, check out her latest here. If you are up for a challenge, come on over and join us (here). We'd love to have you.

Here are some close-ups of the tractor and cart:

The inside:

Digital Image: Inktegrity Tractor {Going Places Series}
Paper: DCWV
Misc: Stampin' Up Scallop Circle Punch, Coat Button, Sharpie and Bic Permanent Markers
*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

Thanks for looking!

Inktegrity's Hump Day Inspiration #16

2010-09-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

This week's Inktegrity challenge is a color challenge. Use your favorite fall colors! Check out the challenge here. The image is one of Inktegrity's new releases, check out all their cute images here. I hope you decide to join us this week. Thanks for looking!

Image: Inktegrity Digital Stamp (Pumpkin House)
Paper: Bazzill Card Stock, Daisy D Fall Design Paper
Misc: Green leaves distressed with Ranger Tea Bag Ink, Image colored with Crayola Colored Pencils

*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.

Inktegrity Hump Day Inspiration #15

2010-09-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

For Inktegrity's Hump Day Inspiration Challenge this week, we had to make a card using this sketch:

I altered it a little. The image is Inktegrity's Daisy Fairy you can find it, here. Her flesh tone is colored with Copics and everything else is colored with Crayola Colored Pencils and blended with baby oil. One day (sigh) I'll have more Copic colors and I will be able to color entire images with those clever markers. If you have a chance, come play with us (here). You'll have lots of fun! Thanks for looking!

Image: Inktegrity Digital Stamp - Daisy Fairy

Paper: Scrap pattern, fuchsia and green solid colors are Bazzill card stock

Misc: Studio 18 jewels, scrap lace, Creative Memories Circle Cutter, Copics and Crayola Colored Pencils

Tangled Up in Creativity Challenge

2010-09-20T16:57:00.000-07:00

This week for the Blog Group, Tangled Up in Creativity, Karen is hosting the challenge (check out her fabulous blog here). We were asked to create a card that expresses what we love most about the up coming season, Autumn. I must say, my favorite part of Fall is Halloween. When I was young, Halloween was a "big" holiday for my family because my father's birthday is October 30 (and now my youngest son shares his birthday). So, we made it a huge celebration. I honestly think, now I like Halloween because I can dress my 2 boys in cute costumes and prance them around the neighborhood. Thanks for looking!

Stamps: Sweet Pea Stamps - Exotic Halloween

Paper: Cosmo Cricket

Ink: Memento-Tuxedo Black

Misc: Distressing with Ranger Tea Bag ink, Petaloo Flowers, Jewel, Flesh tone colored with Copics, all other coloring with Crayola Colored Pencils

Inktegrity Fall Challenge #1

2010-09-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

One of my personal goals for 2010 is to try to become a Design Team member. During Labor Day Weekend I decided it was time to try again. I had applied for a spot on Glue Dots' Design Team in May (more on that later). I found a new company Inktegrity, Joni has created the cutest digital images. Check out her store here.

I saw her call for team members and applied. Guess what? I made it!! I am so excited!

This is my first card. Her DT took a hiatus this summer. So, Joni created a Freebie Summer Series. This cute birdhouse image was the last in the series (I managed to snag it before it was too late). I wanted to make a card with her "Daisy Fairy" image, but I ran out of time.

This week's challenge is "anything goes." She's giving away a $10 GC for her store. Click here to play along.

Check out my Inktegrity DT Sisters' creations too:

I also found out this past Friday, I was chosen to be a "Dottie" (along with Tangled Up in Creativity Blog Group sister, Jenn) on Glue Dots' Design Team.

Image: Inktegrity "Bird House"

Ink: Ranger Distressed Tea Bag (used on fence)

Paper: DCWV, Bazzill, GP 110

Misc: Bird charm made with poly shrink, ribbon from Dollar Tree, Doodle Bug red lace, Picket fence made with Cricut Garden of Words Cartridge, Sharpie and Bic Permanent markers

*I wrote this blog post while participating on the Glue Dots design team.*

Altered Item Challenge

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

In April I hosted an Altered Item Challenge (Swap) on SCS. I sent participants 2 identical items to be altered, one to send back to me (finished) and one to keep for themselves. I got AMAZING projects back!
If you'd like to see pictures of other items I received (including items "before"), click here. The swap was due at the beginning of June. One participant's life was a little complicated at the due date. So, I told her get your projects to me whenever you have the time. Well last week this is what I received (along with A LOT of goodies for being patient). I'm posting her projects here because most have unsubbed from the thread, but I wanted to showcase her work. They turned out GORGEOUS!

The picture above is a wreath Contrapat made. It lights up!
She also altered a favor tin and mini board book:

(Front)

(inside)

(Back)

The jeweled flowers are between 2 pieces of acetate. She sent the box filled with dew drops.

(side view)
Thanks so much for looking!

Tea Anyone?

2010-09-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

While cleaning out the craft room, I found a card kit I had received. This is the cutest image. It is called "Mimosa Tea," and can be found at Paper Jewels. I had fun coloring her. I used a combination of Copic, Sharpie and Bic Permanent Markers with colored pencils. Thanks for looking!

Operation Write Home - Valentine's Day #3

2010-09-02T00:00:00.001-07:00

These are the last 2 Valentine's Day cards for OWH. TFL!

Operation Write Home Valentine's Day #2

2010-08-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

The next 2 Valentine's Day cards for OWH. TFL!

Magical Monday Challenge

2010-08-26T00:00:00.001-07:00

This is the card I made for the Magical Monday Challenge. I wanted to use a different image this week. I usually go to images from Sweet Pea Stamps for this challenge. Since I don't have that many fairy stamps, I made a fairy image. I used Anya (The Greeting Farm) and gave her wings from the butterfly image from the Indie Art Cricut Cartridge. My husband, Dan, has been following the blog of a young girl, Fiona. She has been fighting a very rare disease. This card will be sent to her in hopes of cheering her up.

Stamps: The Greeting Farm Anya Dress Up

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Paper: K and Co.

Misc: Indie Art Cricut Cartridge, Making Memories Flowers, Cuttlebug Swirls embossing folder, rhinestones

Operation Write Home - Valentine's Day

2010-08-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

After I made the cards for Operation Write Home, I decided to clean my craft room. I found these Valentine's Day card kits. I thought soldiers away from loved ones would have more use for these than me. So I made six more cards.

TUIC Challenge

2010-08-25T16:25:00.000-07:00

This is my card for Tangled Up in Creativity's challenge this week. Our hostess for the challenge is the very talented, Danie. Check out her blog (D-Dazzled Designs); this week she is focusing on a fundraiser for Prostate Cancer Research.

Our challenge - use "Pacific Point" blue (or close to, which is what I did) by SU, make a masculine card, and also use ribbon on the card. It is very difficult for me to use ribbon on a masculine card. But I did it!

Stamps: Simply Home by {ippity}

Paper: DCWV

Ink: Burnt Umber Hybrid (for the tree), Memento Tuxedo Black for the House, Stazon Black for the sentiment

Misc: Ribbon from Walmart, leaf shape made from Fimo clay

Thanks for looking!

Operation Write Home

2010-08-23T00:00:00.000-07:00


Cards for Operation Write Home. I should explain. These cards and the cards from the August 12th and 16th postings were made from images I had received in swaps. One Saturday, I had a yard sale and business was slow. So, I sat on the front porch and colored images. I knew they'd come in handy one day. Thanks for looking!

HAPPY MAIL!!

2010-08-17T04:51:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday I received a WONDERFUL package from Australia! Danie (D-Dazzled Designs), a member of the blog group -Tangled Up in Creativity sent me some delightful goodies. She had recently revamped her blog and offered a chance for some candy if you left a comment. Well, her blog is FABULOUS, check it out when you have a moment. This is a picture of the card and sticky note holder she sent, beautiful. She won't take credit for the card, she said another SU demo made the design. Danie you did a lovely job putting it together.

These are handmade embellishments her friend makes.

The card set on the right was actually a set of 6, very elegant.

Look at this AWESOME BLING!! On the card envelope she wrote "You can never have too much 'bling!"

I couldn't agree more! Thank you so much Danie, you don't know how happy (and lucky) I was to receive this.

So, what took you so long to post this, Monica? When I got this package I was in the middle of a project. I was at the point where I knew I had bitten off more than I could chew, and I couldn't turn back and give up. Don't you hate it when that happens (really, it happens quite frequently to me).

I saw this cool posting on the blog Triple the Scraps, she made a catalog of her stamp images and sentiments using a Rolodex. You can find it here. When I read it I thought, "what a great idea." So a few days later on Freecycle someone offered a Rolodex and I got it. It took a week and I'm finally finished.

Thanks for looking!

Operation Write Home

2010-08-16T00:00:00.000-07:00

More cards for Operation Write Home. TFL!

Operation Write Home

2010-08-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

These are more cards I made for Operation Write Home. TFL!

Tangled Up in Creativity Challenge

2010-08-11T08:44:00.000-07:00

This week Rose (Pink Lemonade) is hosting our blog group's challenge. Check out her blog, she has a whimsical style that is beautiful when transposed to a card.

We had to make a project that had a vintage feel. I love all things vintage, retro, shabby chic. I just never make anything using those elements. Probably because my husband likes all things modern. One day I'll have that frilly girl-cave.

The background paper is from October Afternoon, "Family Traditions" is from Cosmo Cricket, the paper doily is from Wilton's Cake (cut in quarters)- I had to ink the doily because it was bright white, the Santa image is from a Victorian paper garland, the lace is scrap and the button is by Jenni Bowlin.

Thanks for looking!

Magical Monday Challenge #2

2010-08-11T08:33:00.000-07:00

When I unloaded my last card made with Sweet Pea Stamps to the Splitcoaststampers' Gallery, LaceyStephens left a comment. She said I should enter the Monday challenges on the Magical Monday Challenge blog. Check it out, the creations are stunning. This week's challenge to make a card using a magical creature image and pink and white. We all know how much I love these mermaids at Sweet Pea Stamps, so I had to play.

Stamp: Sweet Pea Stamps - Ching Chou Kuik's Fantasy Art Collection

Ink: Memento - Tuxedo Black

Paper: Bazzill

Misc: Heidi Swapp Photo Corner, Scrap Lace, Rhinestones, Copic, Sharpie, and Bic Markers, Colored Pencils

Thanks for looking!

Operation Write Home - Birthday

2010-08-10T15:33:00.000-07:00

One of the Stampin' Up demos in my neighborhood is hosting a Operation Write Home Crop. Unfortunately I can't make it. So I made some cards and I'll drop them off to her this week. It is such a wonderful cause. These were made from some card kits I had received in a swap. Another challenge - use up what I have before I buy more (like that's going to happen). I'm trying. Thanks for looking.

Purple Woods

2010-08-05T05:22:00.000-07:00

While at CHA, my sister and I took a Copic class. At the time I only owned a blender pen. Of course, after the class I wanted every color Copic made. I decided to start simple and only bought flesh tones. This image was colored with colored pencils and blended with baby oil. Her skin was colored with Copic markers (E000, E00), except her cheek and lip color is with pencil. Thanks for looking.

Stamps: Sweet Pea - Purple Woods

Paper: Basic Grey

Ink: Memento - Tuxedo Black

Misc: Copic Markers, Crayola Colored Pencils, Punched corners, Petaloo Paper Blossom

TUIC Challenge Entry

2010-08-04T03:51:00.000-07:00

Molly (of Miss Molly Creations) is hosting our blog group's challenge this week. She's really making us tap into our creative reservoirs. We have to create a card using only one stamped image and it can not be an image with detailed coloring. This image is from Whipper Snapper Stamps. I got it while at CHA, it was in a huge bin, and only $2. Thanks for looking!

I'M BACK FROM CHA!!

2010-08-01T05:59:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of the freebies I received (2 reusable shopping bags, 2 bottles of Tear Mender Glue, knitting needle, magazines, sample paper pack, and assorted company logo items like pens, mousepads, etc).

The next set of pictures are of the Free Make It and Take It's I made:

That is a Bubble Skirt (National Sewing Council set up machines and held beginner-level sewing classes), card (EK Success booth), Tag ({ippity} Stamps)

2 cards (one sponsored by Fiskars, the other Zip-It Glue), altered mini composition notebook (Joann's), Mini Chalkboard (made with Vinyl - Oh My Crafts), the pattern is of a Quilted Pot Holder that I did make -but gave to my mother. She was kind enough to take me and pick me up from the airport. I flew in and out of National Airport in DC, and if you know anything about the traffic here, you know what a headache that can be. She said she felt like I was back in Elem. School and I was giving her one of my art projects. The orange and brown striped item is a holder for your sunglasses (glued together with Tear Mender).

Oh a better picture of the ugly sunglasses holder, bracelet (Joann's)

Scrapbook Layout (Micheal's)

I know your dying to know, here's what I bought:

Nothing too exciting. Mostly adhesive that I have to buy online (thought I would save myself some shipping costs). I'll be honest, I thought I would catch some really good deals. I found a lot of the companies there were just there to show you how wonderful their products are. You can catch better prices on their websites (or with the % off coupons from the big box stores) - prices that justify paying for shipping :).

Long story short, the best Make It and Take Its are at CHA the best deals are found online or at the Scrapbooking Conventions.

I had a wonderful time. Chicago is a beautiful city. My sister, her husband, and I stayed in the city (at the Trump Building) and we had dinner at MK (the BEST meal I ever ate!). I'm so grateful they invited me to come. It was a wonderful mini-vacation.

WE HAVE A WINNER!

2010-07-29T03:41:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS TAMMY!!

Tammy of Tammy's Spot is our Christmas in July Challenge winner. This is her gorgeous card. Check out her blog, she does such beautiful work. A special thank you to all who created Christmas cards without using traditional reds and greens. I really enjoyed seeing your take on this challenge. And I can't forget - thank you to all that voted, that was not easy.

Time to pick a winner!

2010-07-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

This week's challenge-make a Christmas card without using traditional reds and greens.
Here are the entries for Tangled Up in Creativity Blog Group's Challenge:

Karen

April

Lynn

Debbie

Christy

Dawn

Tammy

Danie May

TANGLED UP IN CREATIVITY CHALLENGE # 10

2010-07-19T03:33:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's a Christmas in July challenge!

My husband thinks "Christmas in July" is the most ridiculous thing he's ever heard. I like it because I'm a teacher and the Holiday Season (as much as I love it) is the most chaotic time of the year. The children are SUPER EXCITED, there are endless Christmas Program practices, preparation for guests to visit, the parties, and I haven't even mentioned the shopping! So, on July 25 I make myself a cup of hot chocolate (yes, as hot as it gets here) and watch QVC all day long! As I'm watching TV, planning all the wonderful things I want to do this year (more like wishful thinking).

Since it is JULY, it may be hard for some of us to get into the spirit. Therefore the challenge to make a Christmas card (project) WITHOUT using the traditional reds and greens. For example Lime Green is okay. but not Forest Green. The card above was the first one I made, it still looks like a traditional Christmas card. I thought I better challenge myself a little more (I am hosting) so here's what else I came up with:

If you choose to accept this challenge, I have a nice prize all ready to go (only members of Tangled up in Creativity Blog Group are eligible for the prize). You'll have until Sunday, July 25. Have fun! Hopefully I can get Mr. Linky to work:

More Framed Artwork

2010-07-15T19:38:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are pictures of the rest of the cards (framed) I received in the "It's in the Details" Swap. These ladies did beautiful work. I've posted close-ups too. Thanks for looking!

I wasn't really sure how to frame this one. This is the outside:

Sentiment reads:
imagination is more important than knowledge.
for while knowledge defines all we currently know and understand,
imagination leads us to all we might yet discover and create.
This is what you will find on the inside:

Tangled Up in Creativity (ERPOM Challenge #8)

2010-06-25T07:52:00.000-07:00

This is my entry for ERPOM's Challenge #8. We had to create background paper.

The inside says: Never be more than 12 steps away from CHOCOLATE!

There is a close-up of the paper (with out the vellum overlay):

Stamps: Raisin Boat Stamps- "Guilty Pleasures"

Paper: Bazzill Cardstock, Vellum, GP

Ink: Unity Hybrid-Burnt Umber

Misc: Sharpie and Bic Markers, Ribbon

While I was in a humorous mood, I made this card. The inside says:

Underwear is EVERYTHING! We all know, if you have the wrong pair it ruins your day.

Thanks for looking!

Stamps: Raisin Boat- "Undies in a Bunch" and {ippity} "What Matters Most" (tree)

Paper: Scrap

Ink: Unity Hybrid-Burnt Umber

Misc: flower ribbon (cut apart) and jewels

Framed Art

2010-06-17T20:26:00.000-07:00

I made this for my Secret Sister-in-Christ. The sentiment is from Psalm 27:1, "The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of all my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"

Remember her? "A Thousand Years Waiting" I made this card for a swap, here are some of the beautiful creations I received back:

They were too beautiful to put in a box, and I'm too selfish to part with them. So, I decided to frame them and hang them in my craft room for inspiration. When I get the others framed, I'll post. Here are some close-ups:

Thanks for looking!

Scrapbook Page Accents

2010-06-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

Well, you can guess - another swap. We had to make 3 accent pieces and a title. I chose the categories: Nature and Birthday. Here is my "nature," it feels a little like fall because of the colors I chose. I went in a different direction, I decided to "look up" and focus on the sun instead of "looking down" and making flowers and butterflies (my usual).

Here's my birthday set (very girlie):

I used the Paper Pups cart with my Cricut to create the party hat, present, and title.

A close up of the journaling pocket:

Thanks for looking!

EPROM - Challenge #6

2010-05-30T04:49:00.000-07:00

The Challenge for Eyelets, Ribbon, Paper - Oh My! Blog Group was to create a project using a movie as your inspiration. Debbie has really raised the bar with this one. Check out her blog Paper Maven Projects; she made a beautiful scrapbook page using Marley & Me as her inspiration.

A teacher at my school is retiring and I was asked to put a Memory Book together. Mrs. Wilkes loves musicals. Lucky for me Hello Dolly was made into a movie. I remember the lavish costumes and the fancy hats. The hats were actually my inspiration - they were adorned with lots of lace, ribbon, flowers, bows, and feathers. I didn't have any plumes, so I made a charm. This is the cover of the book. Once the other teachers give me their pages, I will bind it with the Bind-it-All (and add more lace and ribbon to the wire binding). Thanks for looking!

Graduation Presents

2010-05-27T17:17:00.000-07:00

Here's what I've been up to. I've been making Faux Leather Wallets. I have 3 High School Graduations to attend this spring. Each graduate is receiving this set with a little cash inside. I have more details on my {ippity} blog (click on the button on the right). Thanks for looking!

CSN Stores Challenge

2010-05-23T07:31:00.000-07:00

My Eyelets, Ribbon, Paper - Oh My! Blog Group friend, Jenn is hosting a challenge on her blog. Stop by her blog: here, she has a wonderful scrapbook page of her beautiful son, Bean. We had to use the subject of "light" and a sketch by Jennipher Lowery (another great blog to visit). I used a lighthouse stamp I bought years ago from a local craft store. The "ribbon" is paper twist and I made the charms using Shinky Dinks brand Polyshrink in almond. The charm holder is a decorative paper clip from the Dollar Tree.

Here's the sketch:

Here are some more views (and the inside sentiment):

Thanks for looking!

Thanks Jen!!

2010-05-18T16:02:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday (May 11) Jen from Jen's Cup of Creations gave me this blog award. You should stop by, she creates really wonderful cards! I was very surprised and it made my day. It translates to "This Blog's a charm." I now pass this on to:

1) Jenn (Jax Bean Stalks)

2) Lynn (Creative Crafts by Lynn)

3) Becky (A Diamond in the Rough)
4) Mary-Kate (Emkay Designs)
5) Molly (Miss Molly Creations)
Stop by and see what these talented ladies are up to.

For a Good Cause

2010-05-16T07:52:00.000-07:00

Mishaloots on SCS is hosting 2 swaps Colored Image Swap and Red/White & Blue Card Candy Swap. She is trying to get 2000 images/pieces of card candy in time for her Card-A-Thon which supports OWH (Operation Write Home and OQC (Operation Quiet Comfort). She and her friends have set the goal of 2000 cards to be made that day. If you have a few images that you don't know what to do with, please consider sending them her way. Her only request, NO GLITTER.
This is my contribution, it's supposed to be Card Candy, it turned out to be Red/White & Blue images mounted on cardstock. I made 2 sets, and I'm sending her Glue Dots and Stars/Stripes ribbon too. Here are a few more pics:

Thanks for looking!

ERPOM - Challenge #4

2010-05-09T10:29:00.000-07:00

For Eyelet, Ribbon, Paper - Oh My! Blog Group's next challenge Dawn has challenged us to create a "plain" card with a window and put the stamped image on the inside. This is REALLY thinking outside the box for me. You should see her card (here). It is BEAUTIFUL!! This is my attempt.

The inside:

Thanks for looking!

Stamps: {ippity} Devoted and Where You Should Be

Ink: Ranger - Black

Paper: Scrap Cardstock

Misc: Petals & Possibilities - Petal Pebbles, Ribbon from Walmart

Eyelets, Ribbon, Paper - OH MY! Challenge #3 - Take 2

2010-05-02T04:52:00.000-07:00

The gracious Mary-Kate hosted our third challenge and I did not follow the directions. We had to use her sketch and make 2 cards. As you may know, I'm a teacher. What are teachers always complaining about? "They just don't pay attention and follow directions!" Well there you have it, I am the students I teach! I've actually known this about myself for a long time. Now, the rest of the world knows it.

This card was made from a card kit I had received in a swap. The sentiment is sticker I had (Cosmo Cricket - Sunshine Collection). Thanks for looking!

Here's the first card I made:

Thank you Lynn!

2010-04-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

Wednesday afternoon when I came home from school, I found my prize from Lynn in my mailbox.

Here's what I got:

THREE BEAUTIFUL CARDS

After seeing these cards, I'm going to be shopping at Kitchen Sink Stamps. The strawberries look so real my son keeps trying to pull them off the card.

BUT THAT'S NOT ALL:

Yes, that's a whole 6x6 Basic Grey Paper Pad and a whole roll of Scor-Tape!

I was so excited, I made this card with my new paper:

I used this week's card sketch on SCS for the layout and the image is from Sweet Pea Stamps.

Stamps: Sweet Pea Stamps - Spring Luna

Ink: Memento - Tuxedo Black

Paper: Basic Grey

Misc: Colored Pencils

Eyelets, Ribbon, Paper - OH MY! Challenge #3

2010-04-29T16:19:00.000-07:00

This week Mary-Kate is hosting our blog group's challenge. She made a great sketch for us to use. I love this sketch, it is so versatile. Check out her blog - Emkay Designs, she has beautiful samples of this sketch.

Thanks for looking!

Stamps: Shirley's 2 Girls - Mouse in Stocking Set

Ink: Memento - London Fog

Paper: American Crafts

Misc: Colored Pencils

1000 Years Waiting

2010-04-25T09:05:00.000-07:00

Remember my crab card? This card is for my second spot in that swap. This stamp is from Sweet Pea Stamps and the name of the stamp is 1000 Years Waiting. I wish I looked like her for 1000 years! I had a lot of fun coloring her. I used colored pencils and blended with baby oil. Thanks for looking!

Image close-up

Flowers: 7 Gypsies Velvet Blossoms (Red) and Petaloo's Flora Doodles - Paper Wild Roses (Teal)

Stampendous Embossing Powder - Marquasite

Stamps: Sweet Pea Stamps - 1000 Years Waiting, Flourish by Inkadinkado

Ink: Memento - Tuxedo Black, Embossing Powder

Paper: My Mind's Eye - Dreamy 2 Collection

Misc - Flowers by 7 Gypsies and Petaloo, Crayola Colored Pencils

Eyelets, Ribbon, Paper - OH MY! Challenge #2

2010-04-20T13:01:00.000-07:00

The second challenge for our blog group was to use ribbon (from your stash) as inspiration for a card. My last card was a little "fussy," so I decided to go clean and simple!

Here are some close-ups:

Thanks for looking!

Stamps: Sassafras - Melt in Your Mouth, Hampton Art-Occasions

Paper- GP110, Black American Crafts Cardstock, yellow and green cardstock scraps

Ink- Color box - Lime and Marigold

Misc. - Ribbon (from Michael's dollar bin), Prima flowers, yellow brad

2010-04-18T09:06:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU MARY-KATE!!!

I was very surprised when I visited Mary-Kate's Blog (Emkay Designs) and learned she gave me this award. If you haven't seen her blog, you should really check it out. She makes the prettiest patterned paper, and her current project "Russian Dolls" card is gorgeous!! My husband even commented on how nice it looks (this is a man who thinks my hobby is silly, but puts up with it because it is cheaper than paying for therapy).

In order to accept this award, I have to tell you 10 things about myself, so here goes:

1) I am a mom (2 boys).

2) I teach in Catholic Schools (Washington, D.C.).

3) I love crafting (paper and sewing).

4) My mother is Korean, therefore I love Korean food.

5) When I am out in public with my boys who have blonde hair and blue eyes, I get strange looks because I look Latina.

6) I miss my '94 Ford Mustang (traded it in for a sensible 4-door sedan).

7) I like to take walks after it rains in the summer.

8) I went to Salisbury University (Salisbury, MD) so that makes me a "Seagull."

9) I was never a "cat" person until I got my cat, Telly, 14 years ago.
10) I also never thought I would get mixed up in the "cyber" world. But I've made so many wonderful friends there, I've decided it's a nice place to be.

I pass this award on to the following people:
1) Heather
2) Cindy
3) Lynn
4) Lynn
5) Betty
6) La'Diva
7) Katie
8) Rona
9) Robyn
10) Andrea

Please visit their Beautiful Blogs, they're are so talented.

2010-04-15T15:00:00.000-07:00

This card was made for another swap on SCS. Yes, I've lost my mind. That means I have to make more (4 more, because I have to keep one for myself). I will be okay. Coloring relaxes me, needless to say I will be very relaxed. This stamp is from a company called Earth Art International (you can click to visit). Sue makes amazing stamps, they have so many details. You should visit, just for the eye candy. I chose the crab image because I live in Maryland and we are known for our Blue Crabs (not to mention crabcakes).

Stamp: Earth Art International- Crab, SU Scallop Shell stamp from Beautiful Beach Set

Ink: Memento - Tuxedo Black, coloring - Bic and Sharpie permanent markers

Paper: GP 110, Bazzill Dotted Swiss

Misc: scrap lace, 7 Gypsies Velvet flower, Bazzill 10mm brad, quilter's crystal head pin, shell made by me

This is a close up of the embellishment on the card. I made the shell. First I stamped the Scallop Shell on a piece of #6 recycled plastic (the carryout containers that recycling won't pick up), colored it, and cut it out. Then I punched a hole for the pin (1/8" punch). Next, I used my heat gun to shrink the plastic. Finally, I put my crystal head pin through the hole. Ta-da!

A close-up of the image.

Thanks for looking!

Diaper Clutch

2010-04-10T06:57:00.000-07:00

This is a Diaper Clutch. It only holds a few diapers and a couple of wipes so if you have to run a quick errand, you can grab this and go. No need to take the BIG diaper bag. There is a tutorial here. I made mine a little more simply, I just used solid black quilted material and trimmed it with patterned material. A friend is expecting this will be her gift. Here are a few close-ups:

In this picture I put 4 - size 4 diapers inside. Thanks for looking!

My First Blog Award

2010-04-09T09:27:00.000-07:00

OH MY GOODNESS!! I was so SURPRISED and EXCITED when I learned this morning that Jenn (Jax Bean Stalks) gave me this award. I'm so honored. Make sure you visit her blog, she always finds such creative ways to upcycle. Thank you so very much Jenn!

I have to share with you 10 things that make me happy, 5 pieces of trivia (about myself), and pass this on to 5 bloggers.

10 Things that Make Me Happy:

1) My family, Dan (hubby), Brendan (age 4), and Damian (17 months)

2) Friends

3) Crafting

4) Teaching

5) Cooking and Baking

6) Telly's Purr (my cat of 14 years)

7) Brendan's singing

8) Damian's squeal

9) Listening to great Music

10) Fashion accessories (shoes, handbags, and jewelry)

5 Pieces of Trivia

1) I worked a whole summer at a radio station and loved it

2) I really enjoy White Water Rafting

3) I want to live in a "square-shaped" state (like WY or CO)

4) I would like to open a Pre-School

5) I enjoy thunderstorms as much as sunshine

I pass this award to:

1) Jen: Jen's Cup of Creations

2) Stephanie: Stephanie's Creations

3) Sheryl: Paper Creations - and {ippity} Stamps

4) Lynn: Confessions of a Left-Brained Stamper

5) Dawn: Everything Under the Sun

Stop by and visit these very talented ladies!

Eyelets, Ribbon, Paper - OH MY! Blog Group's First Challenge

2010-04-08T05:49:00.000-07:00

Jenn (Jax Bean Stalks) is hosting our Blog Group's (Eyelets, Ribbon, Paper - OH MY!) first challenge. The challenge - re-purpose a cereal, cookie, or cracker box. I turned this cereal box into a notepad and pen holder.

This is the outside.

This is the inside.

This is a close-up of the image. I covered the box with a piece of material I had left over from a previous project. The image is also left over from another project. I used Mod Podge to adhere the material to the box. As happy as I am with the way this project turned out, I'm still in awe over the projects my blog-mates have created. You should visit their blogs and see the wonderful things they have made. A few examples are Lone Pine Designs' - Scrap paper holder and Confessions of a Left-Brained Stamper's ribbon holder (and she made a cute pencil/pen holder from toilet tissue tubes). Thanks for looking!

Stamps: Shirley's 2 Girls - "Note of Thanks"

Ink: Stazon

Paper: Bazzill Cardstock

Misc: material, Bazzill Big Blossom, Doodlebug flocked brad, Sharpie markers, RSVP pen, notepad

Birthday Cards

2010-04-05T07:21:00.000-07:00

It has been over a week since I posted a project. I've been (practicing) coloring. I really like how coloring with Copic markers adds so much to a project. Since they are a little pricey (but well worth it, I'm sure), I thought I should try simple (with colored pencils and baby oil) and advance from there. Thanks for looking!

A Close-Up:

Stamps: Image from an image swap on SCS

Paper: We R Memory Keepers, DCWV cardstock

Misc: Gems, colored pencils

Stamps: Image from an image swap on SCS (I think it's Stampin' Up's Sock Monkey)

Paper: Daisy D's, DCWV cardstock

Misc: Gems, colored pencils

2010-03-25T18:55:00.001-07:00

Jenn (Jax Bean Stalks) is hosting a recycle challenge on her blog. Turn something you would normally throw away, or in this case put in the recycling bin, into something new. I used this Coke can to make an element on this card:

If you follow my {ippity}blog, you'd recognize this card. It was one of my first projects made with {ippity} stamps. I'm still very proud of this project. Here's a close-up:

Since I had made this card in the past, I made another project.

I don't know how it is for you, but at work (I'm a teacher) I've earned the reputation of being creative. The art teacher (who is an artist, not a crafter) was going to throw out this box. She asked me first if I thought I could use it for something.

I have not idea what came in it, but it turned into a desktop calendar.

Here's the top (outside):

Here is the inside:

Thanks for looking!

Coffee Card

2010-03-24T15:53:00.000-07:00

I'm in 2CuteCats' Coffee Card Swap (on SCS). I wanted to do something different. I found my inspiration on Lynn's Blog (Confessions of a Left-Brained Stamper). She made a card for the "Queen for a Day Challenge" (honoring Mutnik's style). This card was a lot of fun. I really enjoyed coloring the digital image. I just wish, my coloring skills were better.

Here are some close-ups:

Thanks for looking!

Stamps: SU Espress Yourself, Inkadinkado (cupcake), Digital Two for Tuesday Image #12

Ink: Memento- Tuxedo Black, London Fog

Paper: Bazzill, GP110, Mulberry, Pattern Paper

Misc: Sharpie and Bic Permanent Markers, brad

2010-03-18T03:10:00.000-07:00

I'm slowly working on my Christmas Cards. Here are my latest. I used paint sample cards from Lowes to make the Christmas tree. I had seen other crafty ladies do this and always wanted to try it. I think they turned out cute. The figures under the tree are buttons and I cut the loop (shank) off the back. The stamp in the corner is from a mini set I bought from Michaels after Christmas. Thanks for looking!

A closer view

Christian Tag

2010-03-14T08:03:00.000-07:00

I signed up for a Christian Tag Swap on Splitcoast. We had to not only decorate the front of the tag, but the back had to be presentable also. I cheated and printed the Scripture on the computer, the flower is a silk flower I cut off a floral pick and held it together with a large brad.

Here's the back:

I simply stenciled the flowers with Sharpie Markers. Thanks for looking!

2010-03-07T05:47:00.000-08:00

Sorry, I've been neglecting my Blog. I've been working on my application and resume. Since that is done, I can go back to creating! This is a Busy Mom's Menu Planner. On the left mom plans the meals for the week and can list any important family activities and the right side is for mom's grocery list. When the list is done, she can rip it off and go to the store, leaving the menu intact. I came up with this brilliant idea when I was planning my menu for the week. My previous method: write the menu on a weekly (magnetic) planner and then write the grocery list on a separate pad of paper. One day I thought wouldn't it be easier if this could be done in one place instead of two? Thanks for looking!

Monthly Card Kit Swap

2010-03-07T05:39:00.000-08:00

The Moose (Spring Riley) and the patterned paper were provided by Nikki S for February's kit. The Bird with Butterfly image and patterned paper were provided by lindahur for March's kit. The idea - someone sends you an image and a piece of patterned paper and you have to come up with the card. It's fun to see what people create. I get to host the kit for May. Thanks for looking!

2010-02-13T07:29:00.000-08:00

Here's a layout I did for another contest. This picture has always been one of my favorites. Thanks for looking!

Recycled Christmas Cards

2010-02-03T14:13:00.000-08:00

Since I had a snow day today, I worked on Christmas cards for 2010. I decided to "go green" and recycle some cards I had received this past Christmas. Next month, I'll use stamped images. Thanks for looking!

Need a Great Photographer?

2010-01-26T17:47:00.000-08:00

If you find yourself in need of a Great Photographer, and you live in the Washington, D.C. Metro area, give my cousin Inhar Chong a chance. Check out her website on my sidebar. She takes beautiful Art Gallery quality pictures. I'm going to try to book her for a much needed family photo.

2010-01-21T17:11:00.000-08:00

I created this layout for a contest on Page Maps. This is my youngest, Damian, he has the best facial expressions (when he is happy). I used White Out Collection from We R Memory Keepers. Thanks for looking.

2010-01-18T08:49:00.000-08:00

I'm in a monthly card kit swap on SCS. Every month you receive a kit that has 6 stamped images (all identical) and 6 pieces of pattern paper (also identical), and then you have to make 6 cards and send them to others in your group. This month Diane sent this "Bella" image and blue paper with brown polka dots. Here's what I came up with.

0 CALORIE CUPCAKE

I made this cupcake with a washcloth. You roll it as small as you can and secure with a rubber band. I put a strip of paper 1 1/2 inches wide and 11 inches long through the paper crimper and wrapped it around the bottom of the washcloth. The heart on top is glycerin soap (melt and pour), I stuck a toothpick through the bottom of the soap and then stuck the toothpick in the center of my cupcake to keep it in place.

2010-01-06T10:46:00.000-08:00

I was in my crafting room yesterday and I decided to make some birthday cards. They are always nice to have on hand. Thanks for looking.

2010-01-03T04:36:00.000-08:00

I thought this year I would work on Christmas all year long (or at least until Thanksgiving). I remember growing up how exciting Christmas was for my sister and I. I think we opened presents nonstop for more than an hour. That was mostly because my parents bought Christmas presents all year long. I hope to do the same for my boys. So, to get a head start I joined the Christmas Card Challenge on SCS. I committed to 5 cards a month. This is what my January card looks like. I used the SCS card sketch #260 for my inspiration. Thanks for looking!