Cards by Carla

A Warm Hello

2012-02-01T21:47:00.000-05:00

And a Warm Hello to you...

A quick post from me tonight - eyes are half shut - but I just finished this and wanted to post quickly before hitting the sack.

Another Uptown Girl from Stamping Bella. Sentiment from Verve. I guess this is my "apology" for not doing one Christmas card this year - LOL.

Anyway, I had fun with this one..........

I used the MFT flourish die to try and make a swirling wind. Whether it works or not - I don't know... either way, I'm off to bed. Night! ;)

Thanks for checking in!!

An Early Valentine

2012-01-30T20:09:00.000-05:00

A creatively-slow weekend, but I've been on a Copic-Colouring-Kick and haven't moved the images into cards as yet. With Valentines around the corner, I thought this Verve quote would be nice in a card. I picked up some of the new Jillibean "Hearty Barley" line - love the craft paper look, although I never think to use it. Next time I'll dig out my white ink pad...

The roses were an afterthought but I'm glad I went with it:

The little silver "love" heart charm is left over from a wedding invitation package I made for a friend a while ago. I have lots left so with the season of Love just around the corner I guess I'll get to use a few more.

I kept the inside pretty simple... again the sentiment is from Verve:

Speaking of Love & Romance...... I'm off to watch tonights episode of Batchelor... can't help myself - lol.

Coffee & Friendship

2012-01-27T20:33:00.000-05:00

Does it get any better then coffee & friends? (Okay... maybe wine & friends??... lol)

I adore this Uptown Girl image from Stamping Bella. I've been practicing with my Copics again and this was a big job for me - yikes - took forever. Didn't I just finish saying I like the smaller images? But I'm loving these Uptown Girls - so fun.

Designer paper is MME & the coffee pot on the inside is from a Craft Lounge set that I have. Sentiment is from a wood block stamp of Dawn Houser.

The inside:

I suppose it's rare for me to make a card without a whole pile of layers, ribbons, bells, bows.... yadda, yadda... but this one just seemed better left alone... like two good friends with big mugs of coffee.

Back soon.........

Missed My Copics

2012-01-25T18:24:00.000-05:00

I'm certainly not the best at adding colour, but I've missed the relaxation I get from sitting with my Coffee & Copics. Admittedly I like to colour up the smaller images and the blending probably takes me longer then most... but I love it.

Here's a baby card I made for a friend at work:

I love this sweet Mo Manning image. Designer paper is from a K&Company 12x12 pad combined with a bit of Whisper White and Barely Banana. Used a combination of Spellbinders & MFT dies (what the heck did we do before dies?).

And the inside:

Love this sentiment from Verve.

Just working on a few Valentine cards now and glad I finally broke the seal on getting back to card making. Happy to be back blogging too. ;)

Night all.

I'm Back...

2012-01-23T18:57:00.000-05:00

Well hello everyone! It's odd to read my last post and and see how I assumed my father would be home soon from hospital, but that wasn't the case. He has remained in hospital since that time. He's doing fine now, but it's been a very long road for him... and our entire family. But as I said, he's doing well now - still in hospital - but expected to come home hopefully by April of this year. Blogging or making cards wasn't a priority as I spent most of my time at the hospital or trying to help out in other ways. When a family member is sick, I guess all those things we thought were so important - just aren't anymore.

So........ in the last couple of weeks I've been sifting through the dust of my craft room... moving things from one big pile and into smaller piles... and was just too intimidated to try anything. So I cleaned it top to bottom, floors, windows and all. I took a spin around of some of my favorite blogs for inspiration and then discovered some new paper & stamps I had bought back in Sep/Oct ... and I tried a couple of test cards. And........... they turned out horrible!! LOL - OMG - they look like failed grade 3 science projects. But I kept plugging away until it felt more natural and finally came up with a card that I wanted to post... even though it took FOREVER to do!

And here's the inside:

Oh - and I did a little blog facelift too... New Year and all that. Going to try and post a little more routinely as well and hopefully even put some cards in my Etsy store.

Well that's it from me. 'Till next time.........

For Dad

2011-10-09T09:38:00.000-04:00

Well my Dad is having a few medical problems lately and unfortunately is back in hospital. The real bummer is that I've been sick (just a bad cold) and have not been allowed to visit. I got to skype with him yesterday though from his hospital bed - how cool is that?! (Thank you Steve Jobs...)

So here's a card I made for my father who I'm sure will feel just like this picture once he's home doing all his favorite things.

Stamp is Art Impressions (love their funny images!) and the sentiment is Verve. Coloured with Copics and used my MFT dies for a border. (love those SU! corduroy buttons Vicki!!).

Here's the inside:

Oh - almost forgot... it's (Canadian) Thanksgiving! I'm very thankful for my family. We're actually going to celebrate next weekend when we can all hopefully be together. Enjoy your turkey!!

A quote on "Courage"

2011-09-07T20:00:00.000-04:00

I love that special quotes have become so popular. Everyone uses them on Facebook, on t-shirts, notepads and picture frames. Before computers changed our lives, I used to write them down on scraps of paper (I still find them in old purses). Since then, I've always collected my favorites and would keep them in a folder on my computer - I accumulated hundreds that either made me laugh or touched my heart in one way or another. I always thought, "that will make a great card". I obviously didn't have a good quote about "backing up your computer" because I lost them all last January when my computer crashed. Thank goodness for Verve and their beautiful quote stamp sets. I love this one about courage.

Paper is Fancy Pants Honeysuckle. Dies are Spellbinder & MFT. Love the cordoroy brads from SU!

Cutting this short - off to watch Big Brother. Rachel has got to go!! =)

For The Birds

2011-09-06T17:21:00.000-04:00

Hi again! I made a couple of cards using the new Spellbinder die "Bird Santuary". What a great set!

As you can see I used a few MFT dies as well as Spellbinders and even the Martha lattice edge punch. I love that flourish die from MFT in the 2nd card and it cuts like butter!

Well that's it from me again... the sun is coming out which means I'm off the computer!!

Back soon!
Carla.

Friendship

2011-09-05T19:36:00.000-04:00

Well it's been a while. All I can say is, "great summer!". I did manage a few cards over the last month, but time just never seems to expand to include blogging them.

For this one I used the Just Rite sentiment for friendship. I really like the wording. The DP is Fancy Pants Designs - love the tiny print and of course being a brown-fanatic I bought tons. I used a combination of MFT and Spellbinder dies.

Well I'm looking forward to posting more regularly now that summer is (mostly) over.

Back soon!!
Carla.

For Another Happy Couple

2011-08-01T08:09:00.000-04:00

And yet ANOTHER happy couple this summer. Love making wedding cards!

I had to use more of this gorgeous Pebbles designer paper (glad I bought lots!) It's just so elegant and perfect for this kind of card. Sentiment is Verve and I used my Spellbinder & MFT dies once again, dew drops, lace & seam binding... and of course a little glitter. (What's a wedding without a little glitter?)

I went to this particular wedding and it was one of the nicest weddings I've ever attended. Such a beautiful couple... inside and out.

Okay folks - that's it for wedding cards for a bit. I'm missing my Copics and need to do a little colouring....... back soon.

Wedding Post - Part Deux

2011-07-23T19:57:00.000-04:00

I promised I'd be back shortly with another wedding card so here it is:

This was fun - I went with cream instead of white and it matched so nice with this American Crafts paper. Sentiment is Verve and the usual combination of Spellbinder & MFT dies (love my dies!).

Here's the inside:

Enjoy your weekend all! Hope you're staying cool...I personally love the veggie section at Costco........ so wonderfully cold!!

It's Wedding Season!

2011-07-20T22:00:00.000-04:00

I've had a few requests for wedding cards this summer and I love making them. Love indulging in all the pearls, ribbon and lace. Here's the first one:

Isn't this Pebbles paper gorgeous? I used a mixture of Spellbinders & MFT dies, a little sewing, lace & flowers. Sentiment is from Verve.

The inside:

Sentiment on the inside is Penny Black - I love the beautiful font. Back tomorrow with another wedding card!

Just Because

2011-07-16T19:18:00.000-04:00

I don't remember how, but I stumbled across a graphics site that shared images. I chose this bird nest and today put it into a card. I seem to be on a bit of a bird-kick lately......

I was meant to be making 3 wedding cards, but I had this sheet of 6 little birdnests that I printed and they were just hoping for a little Copic love.

Sentiment is Verve, paper are various small pieces from my stash.

Back to the craft room to make my wedding cards........ lol.

Life is Sweeter when shared with Friends

2011-07-10T13:06:00.000-04:00

Happy Sunday y'all.......quick post today. Wanted to share another card I made using the Pebbles paper.

I coloured this sweet Mo Manning image with copics & added the Hero Arts sentiment in a Spellbinders Labels 20 die. Lovin my MFT dies too - I used 3 in this card... left border & both rolled flowers.

Thanks for your comments - makes my day! Off to grab some groceries for the week..........

Thinking of you today.

2011-07-09T09:35:00.000-04:00

How about this little rustic flower window box by Stamping Bella? Isn't it the sweetest?!! I love it. After colouring with copics I added glitter and then liquid pearls to the flower centers for a little texture. Sentiment is Stampendous & cut out with Spellbinders Labels 20.

Now I am crazy over this new Pebbles paper. I love the small delicate print. Plus you know that part on the 12x12 that has the info and the bar code? Well on the opposite side it gives you a strip that will match both sides of your page. In this card, it's the strip that goes directly beneath the flower embellishments.

Enjoy your Saturday everyone! I'm pretty sure there's another Pebbles paper card in my very near future... like, I just need to make a coffee first! lol

Love

2011-07-07T15:49:00.000-04:00

Isn't this a pretty verse? And so true, eh? I think this would be a lovely sentiment for a wedding card. It's from a Verve set called "Love Story". I paired it up with Just Rite "Kindness" and layered the Spellbinders Labels 20 & Fancy Tags 3 for the center.

I wanted to stay with soft colours so this Girls Paperie "Vintage Whimsy" paper was perfect. I added a little texture with the Swiss Dots embossing folder and used a MS punch & Spellbinder Parisian Accent to give it a border at the bottom.

A little stitching, some ribbon and viola.

A short post today... but wanted to pop in quickly with a card. I don't want to lose the momentum of posting!! =)

From my lips to Verve's ears...

2011-07-05T19:24:00.000-04:00

It would be so hard to pick a favorite stamp line in today's market... simply because there are just so many "must have's". I have my favorites at MFT, Flourishes, SU!, Kraftin Kimmies, Stamping Bella, Quietfire Design, Just Rite and of course Verve. But when I look at which ones I use the most, it ends up being Verve. I just love their beautiful fonts, clean lines and useable themed sets.

So from my lips to Verve's ears.........

This sentiment is from a set called One Person by Verve. Love it! The paper is from American Craft, Spellbinders used are Nesties 10 & 18 along with Fancy Tags 2 & 3. How did I ever do a card without Spellbinders before?? I also used one of my all time favorite dies from MFT at the bottom.

So back to work for me tomorrow. I've had a lovely break from work and did lots of walking, reading, napping and even a few cards. Just total bliss.

Thanks for visiting!!!

Whoops - missed the month of June...

2011-07-02T16:23:00.000-04:00

But I've got July right at the beginning! Looking forward to making lots of cards and doing lots of posts... (right... famous last words).

I'm on a wee little bit of a holiday at the moment and took some time out yesterday to make a card when my friend Gabriela and I challenged each other. I'm late in posting mine, but here we go.........

Sentiment is Verve and this gorgeous Fancy Pants paper is full of inspiration. I only wish I had distressed the edges... but forgot. :(

Wanted to quickly mention that I am missing out on posting on some of my favorite blogs... but I'm having a computer issue that needs looking into. I try in vain to leave a comment and then when I do, I get bounced back to google log-in and asked repeatedly for my user name and password. This is so frustrating that I just stopped until I can find a solution. Only a very few blogs allow me to post comments. Wanted to explain since I haven't been posting any comments anywhere recently.

Awkward........

2011-05-29T14:47:00.000-04:00

So I making a card with my 8-yr old niece yesterday and singing along to Lady Gaga's "Born This Way". Quite understandably, I jump up & break into this amazing dance and think I'm impressing her beyond belief. She stares at me and says, "Awkward...." (lol!!)

So here is my Lady Gaga inspired card. I think the little spray of glittery flourish really does it - lol.

All the paper were scraps from my stash. As much as I love cutting into a brand new sheet, I love the inspiration my scrap drawer gives me when I open it up and see certain papers overlapping others and think... "there's my card". I hadn't put my vellum away yet, so I added a little with my new Fancy Tags 2 die. The beautiful flower I received from my friend Gabriela and the sparkle flourish from Michael's were a nice finishing touch.

I'm honestly not very good at listing all the products I use. I try but it just doesn't come to mind when I'm flying through whatever project. I'm amazed & envious when other bloggers are so detailed in all products they use, but I just never think about it until I'm sitting at the computer. Maybe it would be easier if my craft room was close to my computer room... so there would be no running up and down the hall looking for the name of this and that (as I type). If there is ever anything you are wondering about, please ask. I always read my comments (thank you!!) and I will definitely respond with 'where I bought this' or 'how I did that'.

Back to my incredible dancing.................. (awkward!) lol

A Little Chocolate...

2011-05-24T12:45:00.000-04:00

Okay, mojo is not completely back but I dit manage a little card over the long weekend....

A recent post by Becca Feeken (Amazing Paper Grace) inspired me to get out some vellum and use with my Spellbinders (Parisian Accents, Parisian Motifs and Labels 21). Sentiment by Verve, DP are scraps from my stash and I added a bit of zig-zag sewing, buttons & pink baker's twine. Probably a bit over-the-top in the busy department, but can you blame me...???... haven't made a card in ages and wanted to use everything - lol!

APB

2011-05-19T06:52:00.000-04:00

Posting an APB for my MOJO.

It has been missing for a few weeks now.

I've looked everywhere.

If you have seen it, please return it.

Thank you,

Carla.

Mom

2011-05-08T13:03:00.000-04:00

Happy Mother's Day!!

Happy Mother's Day to all of you wonderful Moms. This is the card I made for my Mother. She's pretty spectacular. 8)

In Sympathy... Hope, Friends and Love

2011-04-29T19:32:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone. Spellbinders Labels 20 & Just Rite Kindess strikes again! Can't get enough of this combo. Guilty as charge. Whatever. Lock me up already. (lol)

and the inside...........

Sentiments from Verve. Patterned paper from American Crafts, SU Whisper White, Close to Cocoa, Marigold Morning. Swiss dot embossing folder. Paper roses from Michael's.

I'm looking forward to some crafty time this weekend. I have to make myself do some exercise first though (ewwww............).

Thanks for stopping by - glad you did.

My Sister's Birthday

2011-04-27T20:47:00.000-04:00

If we can't tease our sisters, who can we tease? My sister is a nurse and for her birthday I was dying to use my Art Impressions stamp - isn't she gorgeous?? And now some of their stamps are unmounted... and I'm all over that!!

Anyway, because I'm 4 years older, the "sister-law" allows me to tease her about her age but does not allow her to tease me about mine. (The older sister always makes up the laws.)

I coloured the image with copics and used my Spellbinder ovals & lacey ovals to center it. Patterned paper is from The Girls Paperie "Vintage Whimsy". Ribbon is SU, pearls from stash.

I did the inside up on my computer. Let me know if you're aware of any good "age-teasing" stamps... I'll need something for next year. LOL.

But truth be told, she's not a Botox girl. She's all natural and a beauty. Happy Birthday Denise!!

Because of YOU

2011-04-22T17:03:00.000-04:00

How I love Verve Stamps and their simple & heart felt sentiments... but I should probably change my blog name to Labels 20 & Just Rite Kindess - because that's all I use anymore!! LOL

I also snuck in the Labels 19 nestie as well as the new foliage die. I used the MFT rolled rose die to make the paper rose (dunked in glitter) and the felt roses as well. I also used the MFT dizzy border die overlapping a brown piece of satin ribbon.

So that's it. A bit of sewing, distressed the edges and finished the inside to match:

Beautiful weather here today in Kingston, Ontario. Nice way to start a long weekend. Looking forward to getting a few more cards made. Hope you are enjoying a nice Easter weekend with your family & friends.

Until next time.

Maya Angelou

2011-04-15T18:22:00.001-04:00

Who doesn't love a good Maya Angelou quote? I think I even have a little book of her quotes somewhere that I bought when she was on Oprah a lot. 8)

This set comes from MFT and the patterned paper is from The Girls' Paperie (Vintage Whimsy) and I absolutely love it. I mean love it like I had to buy 6 sheets of it. It has the softest gingham (on inside picture below) on the reverse too. Anyway, this lovely paper inspired me to use Maya Angelou's quote. (It's a shame I covered most of the DP up - LOL!)

I used (my new favorite!) Spellbinders Labels 20 and cut the birdhouse out. I just cut the quote to fit because I didn't have a die that would accomodate. (I regret not "jazzing it up" a bit, because the center quote seems a bit plain).

Made the roses with MFT dies and added the yellow one from a package I bought at Michael's. Can you tell I'm on a distressed edge kick? haha.

Well Friday is here and the weather is great and I couldn't be happier. Boy I love seeing the back of winter! Wishing you all a enjoyable, relaxing & fun weekend!!

STAMPER'S DREAM BLOG HOP!!

2011-04-11T07:00:00.092-04:00

Hi everyone!!! Big Day!! I'm so excited to be part of the Stamper's Dream and Friends Blog Hop!!Details are below for the TWO PRIZE PACKAGES AVAILABLE TO BE WON (leave a comment and you could be a winner!!).

I love this new paper from Jilibean Soup (Dutch Mustard). I just love the small print & how easily it distressed for me. I used my new Labels 20 & Fancy Tags 3 along with my oval die to create the center. Did some sewing and added the rose flower die from MFT. I love how the Labels 20 and the Just Rite Kindness set go together... it's... well, it's a Stamper's Dream!! LOL!!

Here`s a list of supplies from Stamper`s Dream that I used on my card:

DUTCH MUSTARD SOUP 6 x 6 PAPER PAD by Jillibean Soup
LABELS TWENTY NESTABILITIES by Spellbinders
KINDNESS CLING MOUNTED STAMP SET by JustRite Stampers
SNOW WHITE PEARLS - SELF ADHESIVE PKG OF 50 by Kaiser Craft
SINCERE SENTIMENTS CLEAR STAMP SET by Stampendous
MINI ROLLED ROSES DIE-NAMICS by My Favorite Things
JUMBO SCALLOP DIE-NAMICS by My Favorite Things
CLASSIC CREST SOLAR WHITE 80 LB SMOOTH CARDSTOCK by Neenah

Here is the blog hop list. What a terrific bunch of talented designers, eh!? Be sure to leave a comment for each and every one of them when you visit their blog post today. TWO have hidden blog candy, and you are required to comment on their blog post for a chance to win!

Becca Feeken
Michelle Rodgers
Jerri Kay Jimenez
Amy Sheffer
Denise Marzec
Arlene Cuevas
Leslie Miller
Cindy Lawrence
Kellie Fortin
Tosh Leyendekker
Jeanne Streiff
Mariana Grigsby
Joan Ervin
Lea Lawson
Frances Byrne
Christina Fischer
Carla Murphy (you are here)
Teresa Kline
Carol Longacre
Gabriele Divine

And here are the two prize packages from Stamper's Dream - one for each lucky winner!

The winners will be announced here Thursday evening, April 14 as well as on the blogs that had the hidden candy! So be sure to check back to see who the two winners are....it could be you!

Kind Words...

2011-03-28T22:30:00.000-04:00

Hey all!! Well I finally got a new card done. I've been very busy at work lately and have had no energy left at the end of the day, but today I had a card request so I got right to it!

Made this for my friend to send to the hospital staff in Newfoundland to say thank you for their special care of her father while they look ed after him for a year (he's now gone to a home). I chose this sentiment from Verve (and the one on the inside too...).

I distress all the edges and used the MFT dizzy border & rolled rose dies to pretty it up. Hard to see, but I also added a small piece of dark brown felt behind the sentiment.

That's it for me. Just a flying visit!! Must get ready for work in the morning. Night all!

A Big Hug

2011-03-23T20:09:00.000-04:00

Very quick post! Did a little stamping and experimented with my new MFT rolled roses & dizzy border dies. Love them! I'll definitely be using these in many more cards to come.

I love this new paper by American Crafts. This one is called Peachy Keen "My Darling". The bit of green DP is from my stash and I don't have it clue what it is. I used PTI Sweet Blush Luxe Satin ribbon under the dizzy border & even tried my bow-easy for the first time. It took a few tries, but I got there in the end (why is it called "Easy"?)

Sentiment is from a cute little clear set from Stampendous called "Sincere Sentiments". What a great set this is - really sweet down-to-earth and straight-from-the-heart sentiments.

The inside:

Well that's me done for this evening! Onto finishing up some housework & laundry. You'll notice where my priorities lie and what I managed to accomplish first - LOL!

A New Artist on the Stamping Scene???

2011-03-20T10:25:00.000-04:00

Must show you some new art work made by the daughter of my dear friend Gabriela (Gabi with an Eye). She's multi-talented in many areas... piano, swimming... the list goes on!... but she also loves to draw (especially cats!!). My siamese cat Bailey (who incidently will be 20 years old in November)... was an unknown subject for Madisen and I was thrilled to see what she had drawn. I immediately made a card for her using her image:

I didn't even have to colour it - she did that as well!! So as you can see my little Bailey-miester is at the far right with a very "I'm not so sure about you two" look on his face. So she even captured his personality!!

Here's the inside:

Because I made this card for Madisen to surprise her with her own artwork in a card... I wanted to put a personal message for her on the inside, "You're destined for greatness" just about sums it up for this amazing young teenager.

Now I learn this morning that her Mum Gabriela has created several cards using this image as well. You must check them out here!! And of course you should visit Madisen herself here!! (Be sure to also see her animations as well - unbelieveable!)

It was fun sharing this today - hope you all enjoying your weekend. We have beautiful sun shining days here in Kingston and no more snow!! Wishing you the same.

Heart & Soul

2011-03-05T09:44:00.000-05:00

Well happy Saturday to you all. Just popping in quickly with another Just Rite card. I used an embossing folder by Crafts Too on the Whisper White cardstock. I really like the affect. With cards that have minimal colour, I like to add another dimension or texture just to make it a little more interesting.

The ribbon is PTI & SU, DP is Little Yellow Bicycle. Spellbinder oval & square & MFT border edge. Oh - and of course Martha Stewart edge punch too.

I used Verve on the inside:

I have such a busy day planned but my goal is to get back home and try another Just Rite card. Pouring rain & cold here today - hope you have sunshine!! =)

Feelin' Just Rite!

2011-03-01T19:39:00.000-05:00

I received my Stamper's Dream blog candy & order in the mail and had to try a card right away! This is my first try with these stamps and they are more then just rite - they are just fantastic!

I used the Thinking of You set as well as Kindness for this one:

Those cling stamps are a dream as well!! Oh - and speaking of dreams.. Stamper's Dream... I want to thank Michelle Rodgers very much for the wonderful blog candy that I won and received in the mail. What a dream she is to deal with!! And I love every last bit of it. (Love candy that has no calories...)

Sentiment on the inside is from Verve, pattern paper from Basic Grey Marjolaine.

I have a sneaky feeling my next few cards will Just Rite. =)

Saved by Flowers & Lace...

2011-02-28T00:02:00.000-05:00

Ever make a card that you're just not happy with, so you set it aside? You don't hate it quite enough to can it, but it just doesn't seem worth finishing at the time? Well that's what happened with this one. Made this one a while ago and it got pushed aside & forgotten.

Well I didn't really feel like doing anything when I walked into my craft room. I was just sort of walking around in a stuffy-head-cold-daze. Went in, plopped down & picked it up and thought.... if I distress the edges a bit, add a bit of lace and flowers & low-and-behold I liked it again!

This is one of my most favorite Mo Manning images.

If I remember correctly I think the patterned paper is MME. Aren't those little sheer ribbon flowers pretty? My friend Gabriela sent them to me a while ago and I've been hording them until now. I added a bit of sparkle to her slippers and to the leaves under the rolled flower.

The inside sentiment is from SU, I thought it paired nicely with the image.

Well that's it from me. This weekend was a bit of a bust - missed all my "weekend favs" like Saturday morning coffee with the family at Tim Horton's and 2 visits with my nieces. Can't risk letting them get sick. I've slept most of today away, no laundry or housework done... but my parents delivered groceries which was really nice! I can live without certain things... but my 19 year old Siamese cat Bailey is not about to go without. Thank goodness for them or I would have had to go out.

Well I've rambled on enough - going stir crazy and desperate for a chat I guess - lol.

Have a great week all!
Carla.

Irish Blessing

2011-02-27T09:57:00.000-05:00

I found this wonderful free digital image at Waltzing Mouse Stamps HERE. I love it - what a fantastic image for St. Patrick's Day! Or even to just wish someone good luck.

I coloured with Copics & SU's Certainly Celery with Little Yellow Bicycle background paper. Both EK Success & Martha edge punches were used. The felt rolled flower was an afterthought as was the bit of glitter to the shamrocks. (Real shamrocks have glitter, don't they? lol)

I kept the inside simple. I'm certainly going to try a few more cards with this beautiful shamrock bouquet. But before that... I'm going to try something else that's green. A NeoCitran. =)

Have a wonderful Sunday everyone.

Dance

2011-02-26T09:43:00.000-05:00

This is one of my all-time favorite images from Mo Manning. Isn't she sweet? After colouring her with copics, I layered the image with a scrap of Basic Grey cut out with my Nestibilities Labels 8 die. I added the largest Fancy Tags die directly beneath her... just to add a little extra pizzaz (not that she needed it).

I love this paper from American Crafts (Dear Lizzie). I bought it ages ago and forgot I had it.

Here's the inside with a quote from Verve....

Well I'm so glad the weekend it here, but unfortuately I'm sick with a dreaded head cold. Time to get caught up on some DVR shows!! Have a wonderful weekend everyone - thanks for stopping by! =)

Within Your Heart

2011-02-20T12:28:00.000-05:00

Was on a cleaning binge and left the craft room for last. As I approached the desk with dusters & broom tucked under one arm, I thought, "hey... all those scraps would look cute together in a card". 1.5 hrs later, all scraps from last weeks cards sewn together for a new card. And the room is still a bomb.

I added my new Martha Stewart ribbon I bought on clearance yesterday at Michaels - I hope there's more left - wow it's gorgeous stuff & ties beautifully.

Probably difficult to see but I added glitter to the dress, eyeshadow & hair bow using a glue pen and tiny dots. Sentiment from Verve.

Kept the inside fairly simple and used up the rest of the scraps.

Well......... that was fun, but back to cleaning!! Wish me luck this time. =)

Head Start on Easter

2011-02-18T23:14:00.000-05:00

Made an Easter card for a very good friend to give her Mom. I had just bought the Everlasting Life set from Verve recently and it was the excuse I needed to try it out!

This pretty pretty paper from Tres Jolie I've all but completely covered. I always do that when I'm fussying so much.

I used two MFT dies (border & rolled flower) & two spellbinders nestibilities (large oval & labels 5). The flower under the rolled flower is a Martha punch. Other then that, a little bit of sewing, lace, velvet ric rac & pale yellow sheer ribbon... and of course lots of pearls! =)

Here's the inside:

I love the spellbinder cross collection - so pretty & easy peasy to work with. It will be great to make more Easter cards using these dies and that gorgeous Verve set. And the entire weekend ahead of me........ oh yeah!

Have a lovely weekend ALL!

Another Music Card

2011-02-15T00:01:00.042-05:00

Can you handle another music card? I love this set from MFT!

I tried to stay with the antique-y-feel of the old record player and thought a little lace could add to that. I stamped the image in SU Choc Chip & Always Artichoke. I used Sizzix die Corner Flourish #2 (cut into pieces & assembled) for the base of the rolled flowers and added glitter to both the flourishes & the little fern leaves. Lastly, I glittered up the small Martha Stewart butterfly & added the MFT border punch. By the way, I absolutely love these dies from MFT - they cut beautifully.

The Sizzix die as "uncut"... is as it appears on the inside. It's my first Sizzix die I've ever tried - and I love it!

Well that's it from me! I have to say it really is so nice being back in blog land... thanks for all of your encouraging comments - means a lot! =)

A Musical Thankyou

2011-02-14T09:13:00.000-05:00

Hey bloggettes!! Happy Valentines Day to you all... I suppose it would only make sense I would pop in today with a Valentine card.... but no such luck. =)

I had a request to make a thank you card with a musical theme.

I thought I would try this Bo Bunny paper, which is a little out of my comfort zone for colour but I was happy with it in the end. I placed a single dew drop on the center of this old style record player (image from MFT) and used a combination of spellbinders (Fancy Tags, Classic Ovals, Nestibilities Labels 10) to frame the image. I love this beautiful ribbon I found at my local stamp store!!

The inside:

I used to have a stamp with this sentiment on it (I believe it was SU!) but after looking high & low I resorted to the printer and a nice font. =)

Well I've taken the day off work so I have a big card-making day planned. Have a wonderful Valentine's Day with whomever you're with... and wherever you are!

Times Does Not Change Us

2011-02-13T14:28:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, with my Michael's 50% off coupon... I bought the Martha Stewart jumbo monarch butterfly trim punch and raced home to try it out. I usually try the punches out in the parking lot and all my receipts from Michael's usually have a design in them or are half missing... lol... but this time I just went straight home and starting playin'.

Naturally I had to dig out all my butterfly "stuff" and coloured up my favorite Stampin Up! butterfly with Copics. I also used my new Cuttlebug embossing folder - I think it's called Victorian - it leaves a great impression - I just love it. Can't remember the name of this patterned paper, it's the last of it's kind in my stash. Hey - I just realized I didn't use ANY brown in this card... that might be a first for me. =)

I love the deep richness of this Cherry Cobbler SU cardstock... Christmas and Valentine's has really depleted my supply. =)

Happy Sunday everyone!

Thank You

2011-02-12T09:58:00.000-05:00

My brother asked me to make a card for my parents expressing his gratitude for all they have done for him. This was for the eve of his wedding, so this is what I came up with.

For some reason, the lighting on this picture is terrible... AND there's no colour - so you'll need to squint! I started out wanting to do something with white & cream monotone, but stumbled across Sahara Sand (the cardstock... not the desert...) when reaching for Very Vanilla (the cardstock... not the icecream).

I decided to try and "channel" (LOL!) Becca Fekken and her lovely flowy flourishy (are those real words?) style... so how I did this without ribbon I'll never know.

Sentiments inside and out are both from Verve (because they rock!). I propted the inside message up with dimensionals and added a bit of Always Artichoke to the leaves when inking.

And last but certainly not least, I don't think my brother would mind me posting a picture of him and his new bride. I think they're such a cute couple and pretty picgtures can only improve my blog - right?? lol

Happy Saturday y'all!!

My Heart is Yours

2011-02-11T21:23:00.000-05:00

So happy to get another Valentine done this evening. Made this one for a friend to give his girlfriend (their first Valentine's Day together) so I hope he likes it.

I was happy to finally play with my new spellbinder heart die set and my new MFT border die & rolled flower die. Yeah - love new toys!

The inside is fairly simple, wording is from the same Verve set as the front and the paper is from American Crafts... it may be hard to see in the picture but it's actually a "salmon" colour.

Well that's it for me. Had a lovely day off and looking forward to the rest of the weekend. Hope you all have a lovely one too!

With Sympathy

2011-02-09T17:30:00.007-05:00

We've all had occasion of needing to make a sympathy card... it's not easy, is it? I think from now on, I'm going ot make a point of having some on hand, because I find the whole process kind of daunting... especially when I know the friend who has suffered the loss.

I mean, you just want it to be right, but the image, colours & glitter hardly matter in the end. It's just that you thought of them I guess.

I dug out one of my old favs from SU - this beautiful stipple rose and I coloured it up with my copics. I coloured extra roses and added them with foam tape and added a little glitter for a bit of a frosted look.

On the inside is a sentiment from Verve. You can always rely on Verve for just the right thing to say... in a beautiful font. How can a stamper ask for anything more??????? =)

I Won!!!

2011-02-07T00:01:00.004-05:00

OMG - I actually won the Stampers Dream prize!! I can't believe it - I'm so excited!!!!!! Just look at this amazing package...........

Can't wait to get my hands on all of these goodies. I'm just beside myself with excitement!!!

And all I was going to post today was a Valentine Card - LOL!

I made this for a friend to give her (french-speaking) husband. I thought I would do the words on the computer to personalize it a little for her. So no stamps were dirtied in the making of this card.... also I just copied a layout from a previous post so it was super quick too.

This fun paper is from My Mind's Eye (Lush). I love that it's not a primary colour red, but it's rich and deep - it's gorgeous.

Well that's it for me......... I'm off to have a Stamper's Dream about all my new goodies!!

Courage

2011-02-06T08:55:00.004-05:00

Spellbinders just never get old, eh? I can't wait until my new bundle from the new release arrive in the mail. With each new spellbinder you add to your collection, it just brings new life to the ones in your stash.

On this card I used Labels 13, Floral Accents & Classic Rectangles. Sentiment is from a gorgeous Verve set. I added the Martha Stewart punch in Close to Cocoa (because I'm on my usual "brown" kick). Finished up with a little bling, SU satin ribbon and this time I made my rolled flower a little looser. Can't remember the name of the pale blue background paper... it's been in storage as long as my skinny jeans - lol.

Back tomorrow with a Valentine. xox

A Great Teacher

2011-02-03T20:26:00.009-05:00

I received a request to make a card for a male teacher as a thank you. As many of you know, making a masculine card is like having your hands tied behind your back or something.... I mean, no flowers, no ribbon, no cutzie little pearls or bling? I mean... what the heck is left?

So I admit I snuck a little of all of those "forbiddens" on this card, but I'm hoping the note paper background, the shades of brown and the scripted patterned paper are enough to "man this up". I love the quote ... another great stamp from Quietfire Designs.

The inside I kept very simple and carried the note-paper theme through. The stamp is from a beautiful Verve set called A Happy Hello.

Well that's it for me tonight. One more day of work to go! If you look really hard... you can see the weekend from here. Oh yeah!

Basic Grey Marjolaine

2011-02-02T17:46:00.005-05:00

Snow Day = PJ's, coffee & Basic Grey Marjolaine. {{sigh}}

Made 2 cards from this gorgeous paper this afternoon. In this first one I made a frame with the S/Binders Label 13 - I need to do this more often, I just love the affect. I glittered up the rolled flower & Martha butterfly.

In the second one, I used an old SU stamp for the wording because I needed something teeny-tiny... and the flowers are from Verve.

Well I've procrastinated long enough......... I must go and try to dig out my car. Any such thing as two snow days in a row? LOL Naw... didn't think so. =)

Kind Words...

2011-02-01T21:39:00.005-05:00

Back with another "quote card". No surprise I know... luvs me quotes-ha! This beautiful quote from Mother Teresa is by Verve.

The sentiment on the inside is also from the same set:

I just in the mood to "make something pretty". You know... all flow-y and soft... haha. Added a bunch of pearls to this and sponged the edges on most of it. Used my very last piece of cream silk ribbon. Martha's butterfly was added as a last minute thought.

We're expected to get hit quite hard with a storm tonight so fingers (and toes) crossed that the roads will be okay for the morning drive.

Your Friendship Warms My Heart

2011-01-31T19:03:00.006-05:00

A very beautiful quote stamp I bought a while ago from Quietfire Design. I love the beautiful calligraphy of all their stamps and they are such a pleasure to work with.

I decided to make a bit of a friendship Valentine although it can be used at anytime, not just on February 14th.

I printed off more of the sheet music I found on-line onto my all-time favorite SU Baja-Breeze. Man I love that stuff!! I added a little sponging around the edges and a bit of crazy sewing (no, I wasn't drinking........lol) because I thought matched well with the frayed edges.

Another rolled flower (addicted now.... guilty as charged) and a few leaf springs from Martha Stewarts punch. And.... a bit of May Arts polka dot ribbon... just because I love it. The heart punch is also Martha.

The inside sentiment "your friendship warms my heart" is from a Hero Arts Valentine sentiment set.

Well I must say I don't think I've ever posted so regularly... this can only mean one thing: My house is a mess. =0)

Enjoy your week!!

Carla.

With All My Love. With All My Heart

2011-01-30T00:01:00.002-05:00

Another little Valentine. The stamps are from Verve... "can I just say how much I freakin love VERVE??!!!"

This time I tried my little rolled flower with some coarse glitter added to the top. It really gave it a lovely affect and seems to add a little more romance to the card... or is that just me being tired and slightly delirious... lol...I dunno.

The inside...........

Well, I don't actually having a Valentine myself .... so I won't be making a whole bunch more... except of course for my Dad and my brother.

Wait...... did I just seriously post two days in a row? What the heck is up with that?!! LOL!

HAPPY SUNDAY ALL!

HAPPINESS

2011-01-29T04:00:00.009-05:00

Another little challenge with Gabriella to use this sweet little Mo Manning image. I thought this quote stamp (Verve) & paper from Bella Blvd (that I've been hoarding) matched well with it.

I added Baja Breeze cardstock at the bottom, did a little sewing with the layers, added Martha Stewarts fench edge punch, a few buttons, a little ribbon and all done.

"Happiness is found along the way - not at the end of the road." Isn't that quote so true?

Now head on over to see Gabi with an Eye ...you'll love the music & you'll stay for her beautiful cards!

Have a great weekend everyone!!

Carla.

Musical Valentine

2011-01-25T20:29:00.005-05:00

Hello Bloggettes! Just dropping in to post a Valentine Card that I did as a request for someone who wanted a music theme and the words "You are My Love Song".

I've been dying to try one of the rolled flowers and I love it! I just cut a circle with my spellbinder die, made a spiral and rolled 'er up... then added the little dew drop trio to the center. So fun & easy.

I didn't have any music cardstock ("Jingle Bells" was my only choice...lol) and no musical stamps so I went searching on the internet for sheet music. It took a while, but I finally found something that I could print on some lightly patterned paper and then I embossed with a cuttlebug folder.

I finished the inside with a little more of the music theme.

My first Valentine card done for the year. I'm way ahead! (who knew?)

Happy 2011

2011-01-16T13:28:00.005-05:00

A very happy (and belated) Happy New Year to all my stamping buds! Thought I would actually post a card today... will wonders never cease???? Guess I haven't been the definition of consistent since I started up my little blog... at least I know I can't get fired! LOL

In this card I used one of Verve's stamps - I just love it. It's probably overkill on the embellishments, etc... but it's been a while and I just wanted to use everything in my craft room, heh, heh.

So nothing too tricky or weird & wonderful here -- just some sponging, sewing, a few spellbinders, my new Martha leaf edge punch, a little ribbon & a flower. Badda boom, badda bing.

That's it for me today. Hope everyone had a really wonderful relaxing Christmas holiday. Looking forward to all the new cards that will spring from 2011... mine & yours!

Cherry Cobbler & Early Espresso (A Challenge!)

2010-12-19T03:00:00.004-05:00

Merry Christmas to you!!

Not sure if anyone even checks back here... haven't posted in such a long time. Well, tonight I've cleaned off the cobwebs and did a little Christmas card with Stamping Bella's Polly Packages.

Actually my good friend Gabriella (Gabi with an Eye) has cleverly challenged me to making a card and using our newly purchased SU! papers: Cherry Cobbler and Early Espresso. We had both just ordered them and have been dying to use them.

So out came Polly Packages and coloured her up with Copics. Again. And again. (So many mistakes!) But when I was finally happy with it, I plopped her out with Spellbinder oval dye cut & Labels 10. I used the Cuttlebug Swiss Dot folder on the back panel of Early Espresso and sewed everything together on a final layer of Whisper White. Satin chocolate ribbon & May Arts polka dot ribbon with a few adhesive pearls... and a little glitter... finished her off.

Thanks for popping in... I'll try not to be so long in between posts next time. Have a great Christmas!

Here's some Fall, Y'all...

2010-11-07T10:18:00.003-05:00

When I'm supposed to be concentrating on Christmas cards, I'm suddenly inspired to make Autumn cards. Oh well, Christmas cards next.

This fall paper line from Imaginisce is fantastic. I bought it ages ago and have just be admiring it on my paper rack. Haven't been feeling the mojo until lately. Stamp sets used are from Inkadinkado & Verve.

Thanks for stopping by!

Carla.

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star...

2010-09-27T09:08:00.007-04:00

... do you know how loved you are?

I know this Verve stamp has been out for a while, but it's new to my collection - and just love it. Not to mention the new Spellbinder beaded circles - love the texture.

So I haven't been doing a lot of stamping... or blogging... or Etsy posting. Just kind of got busy with different things. But now I feel I'm back into the swing of it --- I'm off today for starters so it's going to be a crafty day.

Also want to share a picture of my new purchase from the weekend. A scrapbook store in town in closing it's doors and are selling their fixtures. I've been wanting a second 12x12 paper rack for my craft room and finally broke down and bought one!!!

My 7 year old card-making-niece dreamily says "it looks like a store". I told her I take Debit and all major credit cards if she wanted to make a purchase. LOL.

Baby Card:

Stamps: Verve Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Whisper White, Barely Banana, KC&Co Designer Paper Accessories: baby ribbon, May Arts white polka dot ribbon Tools: Copics (RV34), sewing machine, Spellbinder circle & beaded circle, Swiss dot embossing folder, MS border punch Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black.

Just popping in...

2010-08-07T17:49:00.014-04:00

Haven't been doing a lot of blogging lately... just to state the obvious. I guess it's a "summer thing", but I'm not spending a lot of time at the computer. I've been off all week and had an amazing vacation hanging out with my little nieces - you can learn a lot from a 3 year old and a 7 year old. I wish I could post pictures of them in all their cuteness, but my sister has reservations about putting their pictures on the net so I have to respect that. You'll just have to take my word that they are the sweetest. =)

But I can post pictures of cards! I have been posting a lot to my Etsy shop and am really enjoying that experience. It's a real thrill & compliment when someone likes something you've made enough to spend money on it - what a compliment, eh?! Haven't done a whole lot of craftiness since I've been off work, but here's a few that I was working on just prior to my holidays:

Any product or technique questions you have, please feel free to contact me. Hope you are all enjoying your summer.

Bye for now,
Carla.

A Mother's Love...

2010-07-10T20:05:00.009-04:00

Caroline, a friend a fellow stamper where I work, brought in a beautiful book of quotes one day and I glanced through it. I eventually got pulled into the book & read them all and then chose this quote as my favorite.

"Sweater, n. garment worn by a child when it's mother is feeling chilly."

As a surprise, Caroline had this quote made into a rubber stamp for me! I was so surprised and thrilled!! I'm not sure on what occasion I would use this for a greeting card, perhaps Mother's Day? Anyway, I thought it went well with Mo Manning's little girl bike rider.

And the inside...

Hope you are all managing this heat wave. I've got the fan on high stuck right in my face while making cards... I'm pretty sure I resemble one of those skydivers. I'll leave the visual up to you. =0)

Stamps: Mo Manning, Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Basic Grey Max & Whiskers, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Close to Cocoa Accessories: sheer organza ribbons, glitter, adhesive pearls Tools: Copic Markers, Spellbinder Oval, EK Success edge punch, swiss dots embossing folder, sewing machine, Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Doing THE RUMBA with Gabriella…

2010-07-02T20:07:00.009-04:00

Ever hear of toddlers Rumba pants? Well, myself and my stamping buddy Gabriella… as in Gabi with an Eye… were admiring cards by different bloggers using a large scallop border to create a layered look and she said, “Hey these look like the Rumba pants that my daughter wore as a toddler.” So from that moment on… we refer to this as the Rumba Pants Design.

So! A challenge immediately ensued and we were off racing to our respective craft rooms to do a little Rumba Crafting…. here is a photo that we both used as inspiration to create our own Rumba Pants Card…

Sweet, eh? Well here's my card. I thought Mo Manning's image with all the ruffles would be a good match to this Rumba Pant inspired card.

This was so fun doing this challenge with you Gabriella!! Now, you've got to check out Gabi's Rumba Pant card here. It's ADOREABLE!!

Stamps: Mo Manning, Hero Arts Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Basic Grey Basic, Whisper White, Baja Breeze, dark brown Bazzel, Accessories: pale blue sheer organza ribbon, satin ribbon, brads, glitter, adhesive pearls Tools: Copic Markers, Spellbinder Rectangle & Oval, EK Success Double Embossed Dotted border punch, sewing machine, Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

SFYTT - Butterfly

2010-07-01T22:41:00.007-04:00

Well I finally got my lazy-blog-butt back to the computer. I stumbled across the newest sketch for SFYTT on Facebook and a notice that I had 3 hours to meet the deadline for a chance to win $30 in Verve product. Wouldn't that be something - I luvvvvv's Verve....!

So here's my card. I just fell in love with this Prima Flights of Fancy Collection paper so I followed along with the theme and used this Verve sentiment and MS butterfly punches.

Stamps: Verve, Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Prima Flights of Fancy, Whisper White, Bazzell brown Accessories: Sparkly chipboard thingies... not sure who makes them, adhestive pearls in brown & pink Tools: Spellbinder Fleur de Lis & EK Success edge, sewing machine, Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-19T22:58:00.006-04:00

For my personal plumber.... tax advisor.... furniture mover.... picture hanger guy.... best bbq'r.... house designer.... politics explainer.... country & western lover.... confident, friend & true Canadian.... & incredible cartoonist & artist.... for my DAD .

Inside:

Stamps: Mo Manning, Verve, Flourishes Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, MME Love Me Do, Crate Paper, Whisper White, Baja Breeze, Accessories: Nothing… it’s a Dude Card, Tools: Copic Markers, Spellbinder Rectangle & Labels 10, MS fence edge punch, EK Success Double Embossed Dotted border punch, sewing machine, Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Friendship

2010-06-16T21:55:00.004-04:00

Tonight I gave right-angle-punching a try... to form a medallion. I found the video tutorial on Becca Feeken's blog, Amazing Paper Grace under yesterday's date... it really opens up the possibilites with those corner punches!

I've been a bit blog-lazy lately but I've been busy learning a bit about Etsy and listing some cards to sell on-line. Have any of you tried this and had any success? I've inserted the link on the top right corner of my blog. It should be interesting to see how it goes. Knock on wood anyway (rubber mounted on wood block that is... lol).

Stamps: Quietfire Designs Paper: Whisper White, Jillibean Soup, Baja Breeze, Certainly Celery Accessories: grosgrain ribbon, dew drops, adhesive pearls Tools: sewing machine, Spellbinder dies, Martha Stewart punches & SU! square punch Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black & Cool Carribean (sponged around sentiment).

What's Mew?

2010-06-04T16:31:00.006-04:00

I've been dying to post this card! Made for a dear friend & stamping buddy who received it in the mail........ so now I'm safe to post!... lol!! Love, love, love this sweet image from Mo Manning. I was lucky enough to pick it up as a freebie some time ago. So quick & easy to colour; not to mention off the charts in the cute department.

Sentiment is from Stamping Bella and because I am a cat-fanatic... I will have plenty more opportunity to use it. :0)

Happy Friday all... and happy card-making weekend.

Stamps: Mo Manning, Stamping Bella Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Basic Grey Indian Summer, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Accessories: Sheer ribbon, Tools: Copic Markers, Spellbinder Circle & Blossom Nestie, Shapeabilities fancy tag die cut, MS Double Loop edge punch, EK Success Double Embossed Dotted border punch, sewing machine Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Another Go with an image by Mo....

2010-05-29T17:23:00.004-04:00

Isn't she a cutie? But biggest regret: The Green. Seriously... for those of you that watch Dr. Phil... I can hear him in my head saying, "What were you thinking?!" I love green... a warm green... but I've never warmed up to this Apple Green at all. What was I thinking?!! LOL...

Anyway, I'm going to try her again in soft pink... everything is nicer in pink. 8)

Stamps: Mo Manning, Verve Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Basic Grey Origins, Whisper White, Close to Cocoa, Green Galore, Accessories: Sheer ribbon, Prima flower, adhesive pearls Tools: Copic Markers, Spellbinder Circle & Labels 4, MS Double Loop edge punch, sewing machine, Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Father's Day

2010-05-28T08:17:00.005-04:00

What an awesome Friday! Last day of my holidays and my big list of "to-do's" is done... okay mostly done... but there are a lot of check marks on things I've not been able to get to (aka procrastination at it's finest).

The card I'm sharing today was not a Have To Do from my list, but a Want To Do. My friend Donna has her Dad in the hospital in Newfoundland recovering from a stroke for quite some time. She's been to visit and has tried to manage things as best she can from here in Ontario. With Father's Day approaching I thought this little Mo Manning fishing image might be just the ticket for a card for her to send. The inside says (or at least it will when I'm finished... see what I mean???)... "Happy Father's Day".

Stamps: Mo Manning, Stampin Up!, Flourishes Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Jillibean Soup, Basic Grey Capella, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Accessories: Sheer ribbon, button, string Tools: Copic Markers, Spellbinder Circle & Rectangle & Labels 10, sewing machine, Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

You Touched My Heart...

2010-05-27T15:52:00.007-04:00

... and this little Mo Manning image has stolen mine. Isn't he something else?! And so fun to colour too.

Layout is pretty basic. Where would I be without the Spellbinders? Huh??? Hope you don't get sick of this Jillibean paper......like I said I bought a wack of it. LOVE IT LOVE IT.

Ta-rah for now!

Stamps: Mo Manning, Verve Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Jillibean Soup, Whisper White, Close to Cocoa, Accessories: Sheer ribbon Tools: Spellbinder Labels 13, EK Success edge punch Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

OCC Challenge & Mo Manning

2010-05-26T14:15:00.007-04:00

Well I finally did my very first Mo card. I have a few of the images and I've been colouring like crazy, so I thought today I would use one in a card for the OCC Challenge:

I bought a whole wack of this gorgeous Jillibean Soup - love the softness and the small design. The sentiment is from a Hero Arts clear set. (Don't you just love Mo's images??? **sigh**)

Back to the Copics!

Stamps: Mo Manning, Hero Arts Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Jillibean Soup, Whisper White, Certainly Celery, Whisper White Accessories: Pale blue sheer ribbon Tools: Spellbinder Oval, Cuttlebug Swiss Dots embossing folder, sewing machine, MS double loop edge punch Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Two Hearts One Love

2010-05-20T19:25:00.008-04:00

Hi everyone! Made a wedding card with the beautiful Basic Grey Cappella designer paper - how can you go wrong?

Not sure why my photos of the inside always turn out fuzzy. Weird.

Hope you're enjoying this great Spring so far. I think I'm going to enjoy the sunshine all the way back to my craft store for more of this Cappella gorgeous-ness.....

Stamps: Hampton Art & Inkadinkado Paper: BG Cappella, SU Sahara Sand & Whisper White Accessories: Sheer white ribbon, adhesive pearls Tools: Spellbinder Renaissance Hearts Pendant, MS Deep Edge Punch - Garden Trellis, sewing machine, glue pen, glitter Ink: Brilliance Archival Pigment Graphite Black (with clear embossing powder) & Barely Banana (for sponging).

Missing You...

2010-05-11T20:08:00.008-04:00

I love it when all the scraps on my desk seem to go together and it give me ideas. Besides it's so much more fun to make something then having to put everything away!

I didn't feel like doing any colouring, so I just stamped with the brown & green from the SU colours and kind of layered it off kilter. The flower was an afterthought (and probably too big)... but what the heck... it stays! 8)

Stamps: Stampendous, SU! Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, BG Cappella, Pink Paislee (autumn blossom), Close to Cocoa, Whisper White, Very Vanilla Accessories: Satin ribbon, brass button, Prima flower, brad, adhesive pearls Tools: Spellbinder Labels 8 & Classic Rectangles, Shapeabilities Fancy Tags, Cuttlebug Swiss Dots embossing folder, sewing machine Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Choc Chip, Always Artichoke.

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T13:30:00.006-04:00

Made for my fabulous Mom.......

Inside:

And as Mom's go....... she's the BEST.

Stamps: Verve Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, BG Cappella, Brown Bazzel, Barely Banana, Accessories: May Arts while polka dot ribbon, Prima flower, adhesive pearls, glitter flourish Tools: Spellbinder Labels 13, Cuttlebug Swiss Dots embossing folder, sewing machine Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Close to Cocoa (for sponging).

A Friends Anniversary Card

2010-05-08T10:30:00.005-04:00

Made this card for someone who asked that the Anniversary card have a "friends theme" as the receiptents are such good friends.

So I came up with this.

The little white flowers I bought in the wedding section at Michael's (with a 40% coupon... of course!... ha) - they come in a big tin. Then I just ran them through the Cuttlebug Swiss Dots folder and sponged the edges lightly in Barely Banana.

Well........ Mother's Day weekend. No big surprise on what I'm working on now. 8)

Stamps: PTI, Inkadinkado Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, BG Porcelain, Whisper White, Always Artichoke Accessories: May Arts while polka dot ribbon, decorative flower ribbon, pearl Dew Drops, pre-cut white flowers from Michael’s (in wedding section) Tools: Spellbinder Labels 9 & Fancy Tags, MS Simple Deco Shell Edge Punch, Cuttlebug Swiss Dots embossing folder Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Barely Banana & Always Artichoke

Catherine's 1st Communion

2010-05-02T09:23:00.007-04:00

Today is my niece's 1st Communion. I thought I'd make her a card that she might identify with instead of something a 7 year old may not want to read.

I thought this girl from MFT (B.C. Dzyns) might be a good pick. I found the sentiment in Ottawa years ago, liked it then, but never found the right time to use it. Here's the inside:

Well that's it for me. Enjoy your Sunday everyone!! 8)

Stamps: MFT, The Stamp Barn Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, MME Love Me Do, Whisper White, Bazzel Accessories: Dew Drop, Adhesive bling, satin ribbon, Tools: Spellbinder Labels 8 & Cross Collection, MS Simple Scallop Edge Punch Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Lovely Lotus

2010-04-27T19:34:00.006-04:00

Have you seen the new Prima papers? The Flights of Fancy Collection is gorgeous! And me with my butterfly addiction.......hoo-yah.......match made in heaven.

I used the Spellbinder Lotus Pendant to border the center circle... and then popped the center out of the circle for the Hero Arts birthday sentiment. Used the Martha Stewart garden trellis punch for the bottom and glittered up a butterfly as an afterthought. 8)

Stamps: Hero Arts, Inkadinkado Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Prima Flights of Fancy, Whisper White, Always Artichoke Accessories: Dew drop, Adhesive bling, sheer ribbon, satin ribbon, glitter Tools: Sewing machine, Spellbinder Circle & Lotus Pendant, MS Deep Edge Punch - Garden Trellis & butterfly punch Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Always Artichoke

Grateful

2010-04-26T20:17:00.009-04:00

Is there a better way to say thank you then with a HAT?! LOL! This is one of those cards where I was dying to use this great Plum Purdy stamp but didn't know what sentiment to put with it and needed something that basically just FIT! 8)

I'm happy with how it turned out though... I like the colours and I love the Spellbinder Label 13 - wasn't really sure how I would use it when I bought it, but it's slowly becoming one of my favs.

Well that's it for me on a work night... Toodles.

Stamps: Plum Purdy, Verve Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Cosmo Cricket, Blue Bayou, Whisper White, Accessories: May Arts Ribbon, Tools: Sewing machine, Spellbinder Nestibilities Labels 13 & MS Deep Edge Punch - Garden Trellis Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Missing You

2010-04-25T15:46:00.003-04:00

I thought this would make a nice "Missing You" card. Without any copic lovin... this was a very fast card. Not dissin' the Copics, they just sure take a long time (for me).

I just used a small portion of the MS deep edge Garden Trellis punch to border two edges. A little Mellow Moss was sponged around both the edges of the image & sentiment. A quick sewing job finished it off. I like the way it turned out except that it's a bit dark a gloomy I think. That's just my love of the Jillibean papers.... maybe I'll try this again with some brighter, more "happy" paper. 8)

Stamps: Flourishes, Stampin Up! Whimsical Words Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Jillibean Soup, Always Artichoke, Whisper White, Basically Black Accessories: May Arts Ribbon, adhesive pearls, pearl dew drops Tools: Sewing machine, Spellbinder Nestibilities Labels 12 & Shapeabilities Floral Accent, MS Deep Edge Punch - Garden Trellis Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black & Mellow Moss for sponging.

OCC Challenge - Blooming Blossoms

2010-04-24T19:10:00.006-04:00

Made this card for my sister's birthday and thought it would be a good entry for the Blossoms Challenge over at Our Creative Corner. Love creating anything with flowers. 8)

Stamps: Stamping Bella Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Basic Grey Origins, Marigold Morning & Certainly Celery Accessories: Sheer ribbon Tools: Sewing machine, Spellbinder Nestibilities Circle & Blossom, MS Floral Edge Punch, Copics Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black & Marigold Morning for sponging.

OCC Challenge - Beautiful Butterflies

2010-04-18T09:01:00.005-04:00

I was inspired by Loretta's beautiful card to enter the OCC Challenge. I recently bought this Inkadinkadoo butterfly clear set and it took 2 seconds to colour up with copics (badda-boom-badda-bing).

Hope you are enjoying your Sunday........

Stamps: Inkadinkadoo Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Crate Paper, Chocolate Chip, Whisper White, Pumpkin Pie, Accessories: Satin ribbon & May Arts polka dot ribbon, adhesive bling Tools: Sewing machine, Spellbinder Lotus Pendant & Circle Nestie. MS Deep Edge Punch - Garden Trellis, Copics Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Cool Cat Saturday

2010-04-17T21:11:00.013-04:00

So here's the deal - I should be doing my taxes but decided making cards out of this psycho cat was way more important. Am I on my own here?!! LOL

Cool Cat Card#1:

Inside:

Cool Cat Card #2:

Inside:

Card #1
Stamps: Recollections, MFT Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, October Afternoon, Bo Bunny, Bashful Blue, Chocolate Chip Accessories: Satin ribbons, Tools: Sewing machine, Spellbinder Labels 12, Fair Isle Pendant & MS Floral Edger punch, SU! Word Window punch, Cuttlebug Swiss Dot folder, Copics Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Card #2
Stamps: Recollections, Technique Tuesday (Ali Edwards) Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Bo Bunny, Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Pie, Accessories: Satin ribbon & grosgrain ribbon, adhesive bling Tools: Sewing machine, Spellbinder Labels 12 & Blossom 2. MS Simple Scallop punch, Copics Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Time To Celebrate!

2010-04-11T10:44:00.003-04:00

Made this card for two terrific gals that have birthdays around the same time. Great Stamping Bella image to use for Birthday cards. I actually mailed these off about a week ago and haven't really made anything in a week. I think it's a good day to forfeit housework and get inky. Don't you?! CHEERS!

Stamps: Stamping Bella, Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, October Afternoon, Bashful Blue, Whisper White, Accessories: May Arts white polka dot ribbon, brads, adhesive bling Tools: Sewing machine, Spellbinder Labels 10 & MS punch Deco Shell & Simple Scallop edge punch, Cuttlebug Swiss Dot folder, Copics Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

You Make Me Smile

2010-04-05T18:43:00.005-04:00

I dragged out one of my old wood block stamps today from Eat Cake Graphics - love this cat. There's actually a lot of cool sentiments that you could pair him up with, but I knew I wanted to use this smile-sentiment from Verve.

Hope you're all smilin' today...

Stamps: Eat Cake Graphics, Verve Paper: My Minds Eye, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Tempting Turquoise Accessories: May Arts white polka dot ribbon, Bella dots Tools: Sewing machine, Spellbinder Labels 13 & Oval dies; coloured with copics Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Happy Easter

2010-04-03T17:22:00.003-04:00

HAPPY EASTER Everyone!

Hope you're all enjoying the long weekend and have beautiful weather where you are too. Happy Easter to you and yours.

Stamps: None Paper: Very Vanilla, Barely Banana, Pink Paislee Accessories: Brads, adhesive bling & pearls, satin ribbon, sheer ribbon, dew drops Tools: Sewing machine, Spellbinder Fair Isle Pendant & Shapeabilities Cross Collection Ink: Barely Banana (for sponging)

Happy Birthday Sweet Sarah

2010-03-08T16:40:00.004-05:00

Well I was right - 3 year old little Sarah couldn't give two figs about her card that I labored over...LOL.

She has been into playing "Mommy & Baby" so much that this little Sugar Nellie image is just so her (100% !!). She loves her "babies" and names them all "Honey Bunny" or "Sweetie Pie". She's hilarious. So naturally I got her a little baby that moves and cries until you give her a soother. So without further adooooo... here's the card that immediately got set aside (lol!!) as she reached into the gift bag for yet another "Sweetie Pie".

Happy Monday everyone.............. if there is such a thing. ;)

Stamps: Sugar Nellie & Hampton Art Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, K&C Company Designer Paper, Whisper White, Barely Banana Accessories: SU yellow grosgrain & white satin ribbon Tools: Sewing machine, copic markers, Spellbinder Labels 10, EK Success dotted wave border punch, Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Chocolate Chip

Trying the Lotus....

2010-03-07T09:49:00.004-05:00

Received my Spellbinder Pre-Order!!! Had to try the Lotus Pendant right away... okay, well not right away... was sleepy and lazy but I got there in the end!!

I love the pendant! I found it takes a few extra rotations through the Cuttlebug (like the Fleur deLis), but well worth the wait. I added the butterfly last minute (coloured with copics & dotted with a white gel pen).

Have a great Sunday everyone......I'm headed back to the craft room. Must make a very special card for my 3 year old niece. (Like she'll care... she just wants the present - lol).

Stamps: Hero Arts Cling Butterflies Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Basic Grey Indian Summer, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip Accessories: Pink dew drop, brown satin ribbon, sticker dots Tools: Sewing machine, copic markers, Spellbinder Lotus pendant, EK Success dotted wave border punch, MS Garden Trellis Deep Edge Punch Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Finally... some colour!

2010-03-01T19:23:00.006-05:00

I was having colour withdrawal from the last card... so here's a burst of colour:

I don't think I ever used so many colours in one card before. Actually I avoid doing that entirely... except that I loved the pants off this Fancy Pants designer paper. I used my copics for colouring and tried to match up the Hero Arts images with the paper then I added some white dots to the butterfly wings. The Verve sentiment on the inside reads, " ... a very happy birthday".

Obviously I'm not over my butterfly phase......

Stamps: Verve sentiment & Hero Arts Cling Stamps: (1) Butterflies & (2) Flower Box Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Fancy Pants, Baja Breeze Whisper White, Bazzel Brown Accessories: May Arts polka dot ribbon, sheer pink ribbon, Pearl dew drops, pink adhesive bling Tools: Sewing machine, copic markers Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Quick Card...

2010-02-28T15:02:00.005-05:00

Hi again - don't think I've ever posted twice in 1 day - but here's the second card (similar to the one I made for my Mom). As I was putting everything away on my craft desk... I realized I just wasn't done playing. And this gorgeous Quietfire Designs sentiment was begging me for some ink.

It's pretty simple (and maybe even colourless!), but again no designer paper or copics! I thought I couldn't BREATH without either - LOL! Guess that's me fooled. ;)

Well the weekend is coming to an end - they are so short!!! Yesterday was spent cleaning so today was left for making cards "guilt-free". (But now my craft room is a disaster again!) I think I may just close the door and tip toe away....

All the best for the week ahead everyone.

Stamps: Quietfire Design Paper: Very Vanilla, Whisper White, Basic Black Accessories: May Arts polka dot ribbon, decorative stick pins, black pearls, Tools: Spellbinder Classic Scallop Circle die & Blossom die, Fleur de Lis Pendant, Birds & Swirls & Swiss Dots embossing folders Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

For Mom

2010-02-28T10:54:00.005-05:00

Morning! Wanted to share a birthday card I made for my Mother earlier this month.

Two things that I ALWAYS DO......I didn't do on this card. No pattern paper, no copics. But I was inspired to use the decorate stick pins the way Sabrina does on some of her cards.

When I got home from our little party for Mom....... I made another card with all the same supplies left on my desk - just because I was in the mood! I'll post that one a little later.

Stamps: Hero Arts Cling Circle Doily, Hero Arts Happy Birthday Circle, Inkadinkado Round Frame (clear set) Paper: Very Vanilla, Buckaroo Blue Accessories: Ivory satin ribbon, decorative stick pins, pearls, string Tools: Spellbinder Classic Scallop Circle die, Standard Circle die, Labels 8, Swiss Dots embossing folder Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, SU Buckaroo Blue

For Dad

2010-02-14T16:38:00.007-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Just dropping in quickly to show you a Valentine card I made for my Dad. I make one for him every year.

Not your typical red Valentine card. And pink is off limits if I ever want him to speak to me again - lol! But I love the subtle affect of the hearts on the brown Bobunny paper. I chose to use this little guy from Eat Cake Graphics & then I added a string & added a heart balloon through his little paws behind his back.

Hope you've all had a great Valentine weekend!

Stamps: Eat Cake Graphics & sentiment by Hero Arts Paper: Whisper White, Fancy Pants Designs & Bo Bunny Accessories: brown satin ribbon, small chipboard heart, brown dew drops, Tools: Copic markers, Spellbinder Labels 4 die , MS heart punch & heart border punch Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

XOXOXO

2010-02-08T12:23:00.005-05:00

Hello all! Busy day - popping in quickly with another Valentine card to share. Not much stamping on the front - just a quick circle stamp from the Inkadinkado Round Frames clear set. The inside sentiment is stamped with Quietfire Design (love the flourish of their fonts!!).

Stamps: Inkadinkado, Quietfire Design Paper: Whisper White, Chocolate Bazzel, Scrapworks, BoBunny, Riding Hood Red Accessories: red ribbon, May Arts White polka dot ribbon, glitter Tools: sewing machine, Spellbinder circle die & Renaissance Hearts Pendant, M/Stewart heart punch & border punch, Ink: Rose Romance

With You By My Side

2010-02-06T13:36:00.005-05:00

Finally a Valentine card! A culmination of 2 weeks of slowly adding items to my craft desk: a few Valentine embellishments... a new Martha heart punch... some new MME 'be loved' paper and some stamps from my stash that I thought would work for love's big day. I would peek in the room occasionally to see if any inspiration would leap off the desk, but sadly not. I guess I kept hoping the Valentine fairy would show up and throw something together while I was in the living room watching all my favorite shows on tv....hmmmm.

Okay. So Plan B: I actually walked into the craft room and got inky. Felt great actually. I'm not entirely sure if the mojo is back but I definitely had fun. At least my craft room is a disaster again... punched hearts, ribbon & paper everywhere (looks like Cupid had a tantrum).

Well I managed 3 cards - and here's one:

I'm trying to stay away from my "everything centered" approach so I tried laying things out a bit differently. I added a bit of paper piecing for the table cloth and some glitter to the milkshakes (doesn't everyone have glitter in their milkshake????)

Stamps: Instyle & Technique Tuesday (Ali Edwards) Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, MME be loved, Very Vanilla, Chocolate Bazzel Accessories: silk cream ribbon, glitter Tools: Copics, sewing machine, Spellbinder oval die, glue pen, M/Stewart heart punch, SU corner rounder punch Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black & Creamy Carmel (sponged around image).

I can't believe she's 7.

2010-02-05T12:06:00.003-05:00

My little niece had a birthday in December and I never got around to posting the card I made for her. She is all girlie-girl-sparkle-princess-Hanna-Montana in one. She had her own birthday with her friends and then of course we had the family birthday at the house - but then I took her for just a 'Catherine & Carla' day.

We had a ball. It was the first time for both of us trying out Chuckie Cheese and we had so much fun. After that we shopping the Mall and then back to mine to make cards. She loves my craft room - her eyes gloss over and she tells me it's just like a store. (lol - the ultimate flattery!) We picked our stamps, ribbon, etc and were ready to get inky and she says, "this is so cute". I say, "what?". She says, "we're having a little date". LOL!! She's so cute. Anyway she seems to be growing up soooooooo fast and I can't believe she's seven already. Her little sister will be 3 in March.... I wonder if my sister & I will be 'grooming' (ha) another little stamper???

Anyway, here's her card I made for her.

I have today off and it's given me some breathing time to do a little blogging and cleaning... and yes... SLEEPING too!! I'm going to work on some Valentine cards later - but next on the "Va-Ca-Day" is Avatar. I rarely go to the movies but all the hype has got me so curious!!
Have a great weekend everyone!!!

Stamps: Stamping Bella, Hero Arts Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Whisper White, Chocolate Bazzel, Basic Grey Lemonade Accessories: pink dew drops, glitter, May Arts white polka dot ribbon & a bit of bright polka dot ribbon from my stash (brand?) Tools: Copics, sewing machine, Spellbinder circle die & Labels 8 die, glue pen, EK Success Swiss Cheese border punch Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black & SU! Cranberry crisp.

65th Birthday

2010-01-22T16:35:00.005-05:00

Had fun with this one. It was the pretty-not-so-pink pinkpaisley paper that got me inspired and ready to go. From there it was just some stampin, sewin & spellbindin! I really like how this one turned out and I don't say that often (we're so critical of our own work, eh?)

I also did the inside, which I'm just starting to try doing lately. It's not fancy, but it did give it more of a finished look for me. Great way to use up those scraps of DP as well.

What an awesome beautiful sunny Friday it is here in Kingston!! Have a great weekend everyone.

Stamps: Papertry Ink, Inkadinkado, Verve Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Very Vanilla, Chocolate Bazzel, Pink Paislee (autumn blossom) Accessories: adhesitve pearls, ivory silk ribbon, foam adhesive numbers Tools: sewing machine, Spellbinder dies & embossing folder Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Again with the butterflies...

2010-01-15T17:45:00.006-05:00

Hi everyone! Just popping in quickly with a new card. I guess I'm on a bit of a butterfly kick lately... but I love the vibrant colours of this one. It's been one of those stupid-crazy-busy-weeks at work and I just had this "craving" to come home and "make something pretty". And it worked... I feel normal again. (whatever that is...??)

Have a wonderful weekend. Nothing much in store for me other then checking out a few shows my DVR has taped and more then likely maybe another "pretty" card. LOL.

Stamps: SU! & Penny Black Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Whisper White, Chocolate Bazzel, Basic Grey Indian Summer Accessories: pearl dew drops, adhesitve pearls, red adhesive gems, glitter, adhesive felt floral ribbon Tools: Copics, sewing machine, Spellbinder die, glue pen, edge punch Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Secret to Happiness

2010-01-13T19:01:00.006-05:00

I love beautiful quotes - no secret there. So I was thrilled to discover Quietfire Design and their multitude of quotes in beautiful fonts! I received an order just before Christmas and am now getting a chance to ink some up. I made this card without any purpose in mind - but think it might be fun to use as an Anniversary card - lol.....

Not sure where I was going with this whole "bow" thing. I had this weird idea that I was going to make the bow into the antennas... until... well... until I ended up using more glue then common sense (I mean... it just wouldn't STAY!!) So, in the end I decided to just be happy that my fingers didn't stay stuck to the card (... giving me even bigger problems at the post office...).

Stamps: Quietfire Design & SU! butterfly Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Very Vanilla, Chocolate Bazzel, MME Laundry Line Accessories: May Arts brown polkadot ribbon, flower, glitter, twine, adhesive gems Tools: Copics, sewing machine, Spellbinder die, glue pen, Cuttlebug embossing folder Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

And the day came...

2010-01-11T15:36:00.004-05:00

I love this quote by Anais Nin... "And the day came where the risk it took to stay tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom." Pretty, eh? I received it with my Verve order just before Christmas, but like everyone else, I was still working with Christmas images trying to get those cards done.

The (Whipper Snapper) image of the sunflower, together with the little girl are both part of one stamp called "My Favorite Flower" (illustrated by Anna Wight). I had coloured it with Copics and then just cut it out to go with my design.

Have to say... I've such a great day making cards today. Had today off work and really took advantage of my free time in the craft room. No pressure... no "deadline" cards that have to be done for anything... just me listening music, taking my time and getting inky.

But it's back to work tomorrow..........!!

Stamps: Whipper Snapper (Designer: Anna Wight) & Verve Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Whisper White, More Mustard, Brown Bazzel, Rose Bazzel, Basic Grey Lemonade (Honey Bee) Accessories: white leaf ribbon, flower brad, glitter Tools: Copics, sewing machine, edge punch, Spellbinder dies, glue pen, MS leaf punch Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Happy Birthday Pauline!

2010-01-09T15:32:00.003-05:00

Made this card for a very good friend but had to wait until she received it in the mail before I could post... for obvious reasons. 8)

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAULINE!"

Used a variety of dots & circles to put this together... the patterned paper, mini pearls, embossing folder, ribbon and even the Verve dotted circle stamp. [I'm really surprised how well the glitter on the cake showed up in this picture!]

Stamps: Hampton Art clear set (cake) & Verve Stamps (dotted circle) Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Chocolate Bazzel cardstock, Bazzel light green cardstock & MME Beloved “Desireable Dots” designer paper Assessories: May Arts brown polka dot ribbon, glitter, mini adhesive pearls Tools: Spellbinder Circle, Blossom & Blossom 2 dies, Cuttlebug embossing folder, Victorian Border Pierceability, sewing machine Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

I Built... a Quilt.

2010-01-01T14:25:00.009-05:00

Okay - I have to admit - this was fun. I stamped on different pattened papers (listed below), then lightly added some copic highlights for some depth and stitched all around. I think I'm beginning to "get" the thrill real quilters feel when they create a design... like, when the squares are put together and create additonal designs within the design. I've said design too much, haven't I? Okay... moving on.

If you haven't seen the quilt cards from the other Whipper Snapper Featured Designers, then you should check out their blogs and/or galleries:

AMY ROHL
SCS Gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/go/rohla
Blog: http://inkaboutme.blogspot.com/

GABRIELA DIVINE
SCS Gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/go/gabydee
Blog: http://gabiwithaneye.blogspot.com/

JENNIFER KING
SCS Gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/go/jkincolorado

RANDEE ELSING
SCS Gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/go/Randee_E
Blog: http://www.mystampingground.blogspot.com/

ANNA WIGHT
SCS Gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/go/sweetmissdaisy
Blog: http://sweetmissdaisy.typepad.com/

CARLA MURPHY (oh… that’s me!)
SCS Gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/go/cardsbycarla
Blog: http://cardsbycarla.blogspot.com/

Just a quick note about one of the really cool papers I used in this... card. It's called jillibean soup "white macaroni"... (the brown paper)... well, I discovered that when you sponge ink (in my case, choc chip over the corners), the white design pops out! It's so cool!!

Well that's it for me today. I'm going to take advantage of this nice quiet day and get some things done around this place... a little cleaning... organizing, that sort of thing. Wait a minute... it's New Year's Day - who am I kidding?? Plan B: off to the craft room.... eeeehhaaaa!!!

Have a wonderful day everyone...

and best wishes for a really super 2010!!

Stamps: Whipper Snapper (Designer: Anna Wight) Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Whisper White, Close to Cocoa, Brown Bazzel, jillibean soup, Bo Bunny, Making Memories “Mistletoe” Accessories: mini buttons, adhesive green pearls (never thought I’d ever use those…) Tools: Copics, sewing machine, Spellbinder Fleur De Lis pendant die Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Stitch your stress away.

2009-12-31T13:50:00.008-05:00

Hello rubber-blogger-friends - HAPPY NEW YEAR!! I hope whatever it is you've chosen to do this evening that you have fun ringing in the new year (and no drinking & driving!!). I'm posting another quilting card today with my favorite drink actually.......COFFEE. I loved that this was part of Anna Wight's (Whipper Snapper) new quilting stamp sets (Springtime Quilt & Quilting Forever).

I chose to use the Spellbinder square diecut & leave a white edge to each block. I like the embossed edge & the "quilting look" it gives the squares. I also found these awesome little scissors in my stash - aren't they cute?!

Well believe it or not..........no designer paper was harmed in the making of this card. Other then the usual Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock (for colouring with copics), everything else is Stampin Up!

Stamps: Whipper Snapper (Designer: Anna Wight) Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Whisper White, Close to Cocoa, Baja Breeze Accessories: mini scissor embellishment, May Arts white ribbon & brown ribbon, adhesive pearls Tools: Copics, sewing machine, Shapeabilities – Fancy Tag, Cuttlebug "Swiss Dots" embossing folder Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Look Ma... I'm Quiltin' !!

2009-12-30T22:17:00.006-05:00

I find sewing on paper so relaxing. Now sewing on material... well that's just stressful. Being domestically challenged I try to stay away from anything like that... sewing... cooking... you get the idea. Actually, my sewing machine has never touched material. (Maybe I shouldn't brag about that...)

So here's another card using the newest sets from Anna Wight for Whipper Snapper Designs. The quilt block is from Springtime Quilt and the sentiment (love the font!) is from Quilting Forever.

Remember to check out the other samples from the Nov/Dec Feature Designers (links in post below)... and if you're in the mood to grab a coffee and browse a while, be sure to check out the gallery at Splitcoaststampers; keyword WSFD for all designs past & present. If you haven't done so yet, then you're in for a real treat!!

Stamps: Whipper Snapper (Designer: Anna Wight) Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Whisper White, Bravo Burgundy, Basic Grey Indian Summer (maple sugar) Accessories: mini buttons, May Arts white ribbon,Tools: Copics, sewing machine, Shapeabilities – Fancy Tag Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Whipper Snapper Release Day!!

2009-12-28T00:01:00.015-05:00

Okay!! Anna Wight has another 2 of her amazing sets being released today:

As I'm a fan of sewing on cards - there are so many possibilities with these sets and the sentiments are the cutest! Here's a card I made using quilting blocks from each set and the sentiment reads: "Quilting Forever Housework Whenever!"

Don't forget to check out other cards & projects from the November/December Featured Designers:

AMY ROHL
SCS Gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/go/rohla
Blog: http://inkaboutme.blogspot.com

GABRIELA DIVINE
SCS Gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/go/gabydee
Blog: http://gabiwithaneye.blogspot.com

JENNIFER KING
SCS Gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/go/jkincolorado

RANDEE ELSING
SCS Gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/go/Randee_E
Blog: http://www.mystampingground.blogspot.com

ANNA WIGHT
SCS Gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/go/sweetmissdaisy
Blog: http://sweetmissdaisy.typepad.com

CARLA MURPHY (oh… that’s me!)
SCS Gallery: http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/go/cardsbycarla
Blog: http://cardsbycarla.blogspot.com

Stamps: Whipper Snapper (Designer: Anna Wight) Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Whisper White, Taken with Teal, Cosmo Cricket (girl Friday) Accessories: Pearl Dew Drops, May Arts white ribbon, orange twine Tools: Copics, sewing machine, Spellbinder square die, Shapeabilities – Ribbon Tag Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

A Sugar Nellie Christmas

2009-12-18T21:24:00.007-05:00

Quick post to spill some sugar...

I love these Sugar Nellie images - had to buy them the second they came out. They're so fun & easy to colour. What better low-calorie-sugar-treat is there?!! 8)

Hope you are all well during this busy pre-Christmas time. Don't forget yourselves in all the craziness. Nice of you to stop in & thanks so much for your comments in my last post - means a lot!!

1st card -
Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Bazzell Brown, Certainly Celery & Basic Grey eskimo kisses Assessories: Silk & satin ribbons, glitter Tools: Copic markers, MS leaf punch, Spellbinder Nestibilities, sewing machine Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

2nd card -
Paper: Gina K Pure Luxury White cardstock, Marigold Morning, Riding Hood Red, Certainly Celery, Graphic 45 Christmas Past Collection, Making Memories Mistletoe (whew! whatever happened to "red, green & yellow"?!) Assessories: brads, velvet ribbon Tools: Copic markers, Spellbiner Nestibilities, Cuttlebug embossing folder, sewing maching Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black