Oh, Nuts!

Hello!  I am sorry you didn't see me yesterday.  I haven't been out to my stamp shack for a couple of days.  It has been cold.  Well, not really, I guess.  But, it has felt cold and dreary.  So, I was thinking I didn't have anything to show you, then I realized I have a card I actually made a couple of weeks ago, but haven't showed it to you.  It was a belated birthday card I made.  And with a new stamp that hadn't been inked up before now.  Too fun.  Here is my card.  Enjoy!

I love how one of the papers in this set looks like a wood pattern, perfect to use with a squirrel stamp.  This was a very simple card to put together, but I like how it came out.  So glad, I remembered to share it with you!

Recipe:

Paper - My Minds Eye Stella & Rose Mabel 6 x 6 pad, Cardstock Dark Brown, Kraft, White

Stamps - Inky Antics Forest Friends #2
Ink - Versafine Vintage Sepia, Prismacolor Pencils, Gamsol
Tools - Tim Holtz Sizzix Bracket Die, Classic Scalloped Circle & Classic Circle Nestibilities
Other - Rhinestones by Hero Arts

The sun is out today and it is warmer, so hopefully I will get back out there and do more creating today.  If so, I will pop in tomorrow.  But, for sure, I will be here on Saturday as that post is ready to share my friend's card and my card from the same sketch.  See you soon!

Happy Stamping!
Tina

God is Good!

Hello!  My card today is the last sketch of March's Viva laVerve challenge cards.  When I saw this sketch I thought oh, good, a simple one.  But ... as things go, as you know, nothing is simple!  First, I didn't know what stamps I wanted to use, and then what papers I wanted to go with.  I decided I was determined to use the Hattie 6 x 6 pad of papers.  You see this is another one of those My Minds Eye pads.  I have used the other three pads multiple times, but I have yet to use this one.  They are just not colors that I usually use, as they are dark blues, golds, and browns.  But, you will see they are no less beautiful.  As my idea came together, I needed a butterfly and decided on one of the Maja Road chipboard ones I got last year.  I looked in every crook and cranny (whatever that means!) in my room, and could not find them, so ... on to plan B, I ended up using a Stampin' Up die for my butterfly.  I know you are thinking ... why aren't I using a butterfly stamp?  You see, since it is a Verve challenge, I was trying to keep most of the stamps Verve.  It is not necessarily required, but it is just what I try to do.  Let me get to my card ... and then the sketch!  Enjoy!

One of my favorite Verve sets, is a little set of 6 small sentiments.  I have used a couple of the sayings on previous projects, and I was thinking about using one on this card.  The two sentiments, "All things are possible" and "God is good"  just seem to go together.  I thought a butterfly would be the perfect image to add, plus it allowed me to use this darling little butterfly embellishment!  Do you see on the sketch how it shows a little pinking border?  I have to say that is what clinched me into using the Hattie pad, when I saw I could create this same effect with the argyle paper for the bottom panel.  I really love the finished card.  Don't you?  And the sketch is one that I can see turning to again and again! 

Recipe:

Paper - My Minds Eye Stella & Rose Hattie 6 x 6 paper pad, Cardstock Teal
Stamps - Verve Joy for the Journey set
Ink - Versafine Smokey Grey and Vintage Black
Tools - Classic Scalloped Circle and Classic Circle Nestibilities, Sizzix Embosslits Beautiful Wings die
Other - Butterfly Charm by Bo Bunny, Natural linen thread by TCP, Rhinestones by Hero Arts

Happy Stamping!
Tina 

Just Because!

Hello!  A couple of weeks ago, I saw a card and a how-to on Splitcoast Stampers to create a trellis.  You can see it here.  In that post, you will find the link to the card I saw.  Anyway, I thought it was something I must try!  I pretty much created my lattice opening with their instructions by using a labels die and strips of paper behind.  Their instructions said to cut strips into 1/8" wide, but I believe mine are more like 1/4".  They had done theirs in white, so I never thought about maybe I should think about what color I wanted, I just did it.  Then, after I got my lattice panel done, and was trying to decide what paper I wanted behind the lattice, I realized the white maybe wasn't the best option.  The white was very stark for a lot of my floral paper options.  I finally decided the one I liked the best was another sheet from one of the My Minds Eye pads which I have been using like crazy.  I added a bold butterfly stamp, some embellishments and it was done. Here it is ... enjoy!

You know maybe, I would have liked the other floral papers peeking through more if I would have made my strips slimmer and maybe less of them.  The way it is, as I layed the panel over my floral papers, larger flowers just seemed to get lost.  These are definite ideas to try next time.  I do want to say though, the end result for this card, I like. What do you think? 

Recipe:

Paper - My Minds Eye Stella & Rose Hazel 6 x 6 pad, Cardstock Black, White
Stamps - Butterfly by Inkadinkado Garden Delight Set, Just Because by Endless Creations
Ink - Versamark, Judi Kins Detail Black Embossing Powder, Heat Gun, Versafine Black
Tools - Labels 4 Nestibilities, Cuttlebug Polka Dots embossing folder, EK Success Corner Punch
Other - Button, Ribbon by May Arts, Linen Thread by TCP, White Pearls by Hero Arts, Black Pearls by Kaiser

Happy Stamping!
Tina

Saturday's Sketch Share!

Hello!  Debbie, who is a friend of mine, and I have been sharing our handmade cards by snail mail for a couple of months now.  I recently asked her if she would be up for a challenge.  My idea was for both of us to make a card using the same sketch and then send it to each other on the same day.  Since, I did not participate in any February's Viva la Verve sketches, I thought those four would be good ones to pick from.  She wants to do all four in order!  So, for the next four Saturday's, I will be posting each of our cards with the matching sketch for you to see.  I will be showing my card, Debbie's card and then the sketch.  Let's get to them!  Enjoy!


My Card



Debbie's Card



The Sketch

When I did my card, I didn't take note of all the recipe details, and I don't have the info on Debbie's card, but if there is something you would like to know, just leave me a comment and I will get the info to you.  I will have another sketch share for you next Saturday.  And I will be back on Monday, to show you another one of my card creations. 

Have a great weekend!  Happy Stamping!
Tina

O Lord, My Glory!

Hello!  As I promised yesterday, I am back with another Viva laVerve sketch challenge creation.  This one is for week 4 which you would think, would mean I have now done all the March sketches.  But, I see they are having 5 this month, so I will be anxiously waiting for the 5th sketch so I can complete this month's challenge!  For today's card, I went with one of the beautiful scriptures from Verve.  I love all of them.  I think, they are perfect cards to have on hand for many occasions, especially a thinking of you or a sympathy card.  The main change I made to the week 4's sketch is the fact that their sketch is for a square card, and I did an A-2 size card.  You will see other than that, I followed the sketch pretty close.  Let's show you my card and then the sketch.  Enjoy!

As you know, my favorite things to add to all my cards are some kind of bauble, whether it be a button, a rhinestone, a pearl or a combination of them.  But, this part is always decided on after the card is created.  I have a whole basket full of these bauble items and I dig thru my basket looking for the perfect addition for my card.  Sometimes, this addition totally transforms my card, like today's card.  Before I added those large rhinestone baubles, the card was pretty, but after?  Very striking!  When it comes to paper piecing flowers, I love these.  What do you think about my card, do you love it?

Recipe:

Paper - My Minds Eye Stella & Rose -Hazel 6 x 6 pad (can't keep my hands out of these pads ... love, love them!), Cardstock White, Aqua, Pearlescent Peach by TPC
Stamps - Verve -Sentiment Plain Jane, Flowers from Fancy Florals Remixed
Ink - Versafine Black
Tools - Sizzix BasicGrey Diamonds embossing folder
Other - Rhinestones from K & Co.

I wanted to point out that I added a feature to my blog.  I added a search tool.  Say, you were interested in seeing my other posts that I used Verve stamps on, you could put "Verve" in the search box and it would show you links of my posts that I talked about Verve.  Pretty cool, huh?  I hope you will find this tool to be helpful.

See you tomorrow.
Happy Stamping!
Tina

Feel the Sun!

Hello!  I have another sketch challenge card to show you today.  Verve has several different challenges every month with chances to win stamps.  The Viva laVerve challenge is a month long challenge where they give you one sketch a week but you have the whole month to complete all of them  On any month, that I use one of their sketches, I feel that I should do them all.  Well, so far, I have shown you cards with sketches from week 1 and week 3.  Today's sketch was week's 2.  Week's 4, I will show you tomorrow!  Let me get to my card and then I will show you the sketch, of course too!  Enjoy!

Looking at the sketch, the circle reminded me of a sun, but I put that thought away, until ... I came across the cloud paper and decided yes, a sun!  The added Verve sentiment about the sun I thought made it perfect.  A very simple card, but very pretty.  An easy sketch, I think I might do again sometime.  Do you like it?

Recipe:

Paper - My Minds Eye Fine & Dandy True Blue 6 x 6 pad, Cardstock Yellow, White
Stamps - Verve Stamps Feel The Sun set
Ink - Versafine Black
Tools - Classic Circle, Pinking Circles Nestibilities
Other - Ribbon by Creative Impressions, Linen Thread by TCP, Button by Basic Grey, Pearls by Queen & Co.

See you tomorrow!

Happy Stamping!
Tina

The Road To A Friends House is Never Long!

Hello!  I love the sentiment I used as my blog post title today.  And, I really thought I had a stamp that says it.  I couln't find it though.  I might be remembering one that I sold when I had the store.  I really needed it for the inside of the card I made for you today.  I might just have to print it on the computer and add it.  It is almost the end of the month, and I haven't done a card for Jen's monthly sketch challenge.  So, today this card uses that sketch.  It is one of those sketches that has a slanted panel on it, which as you know is not particularly my favorite, however, once the cards are completed, I always like how they turn out!  Just like today's card.  Now, let's get to it.  I will show you my card first, and then the sketch.  Enjoy!

Yes, I turned it on it's side!  I recently got this little bicycle at one of the chain stores, and have been wanted to stamp it.  Since then, I have purchased at least two different papers with bicycles on them, so you will be seeing this little bicycle again real soon.  Anyway, with the sketch vertical, I just stared at it, not knowing what stamp to use. but as soon as I turned it, the idea came!  I kinda like how I made a little frame to showcase my bicycle and I love the added grass at the bottom.  What do you think?

Recipe:

Paper - My Minds Eye Stella & Rose Gertie 6 x6 pad, Cardstock White, Rosey Red
Stamps - Bicycle by Hero Arts, Friends by Woodware
Ink - Versafine Black, Prismacolor Pencils, Gamsol
Tools - Classic Oval Nestibilities, My Favorite Things Grass Die
Other - Button, Rhinestones by Hero Arts

See you tomorrow!
Happy Stamping!
Tina

A Happy Hello!

Hello!  O.k. I just realized even though I have completed cards ready to show you, I never thought about doing a blog post for Monday.  That is o.k, as I'll give you posts on Tuesday thru Saturday this week instead!  Last week, the granddaughter, Jordan, who is 11, came to stay during her Spring break.  Each day as we drove away from the house, we would go by a creek with a couple of tree branches with many turtles on each.  She always wanted to make sure she was sitting on the side of the car so she could see them.  One day, she talked me into taking a walk to go see the turtles.  I took a picture which I will  show you  later in the post.  I made today's card in celebration of  "the turtles"!  And, I am sending this card to Jordan.  The card is bright and cheery.  I know it will make you smile!  Enjoy!
   

See those flowers across the bottom portion of the card?  Those are actually stickers.  I love the addition of them to my card.  I put one of the dot sparklers stickers in each of the centers for some bling?   Whatcha think?  Too cute?

Here is my pic I took of the turtles in the creek ...

Recipe:

Paper - Echo Park Sweet Summertime Collection (flowers are on a sticker sheet in this collection), Cardstock White, Lime Green
Stamps - Turtle by Our Craft Lounge - cling set called "The Pond", Branch by Woodware - clear set called Owl Greetings, A Happy Hello by Stampin' Up
Ink - Versafine Black, Prismacolor Pencils, Gamsol
Tools - Labels 9 Nestibilities, The Cat's Pajamas Flower Buttons Die, McGill Tags Punch
Other - Stampendous Dot Sparkler stickers, Linen Thread by The Cat's Pajamas,  Rhinestones by Unknown

Before I go, I have an announcement to make ... I have decided to teach a card class at The Crafty Scrapper, which is one of the scrapbook stores that I frequent.  They have asked me several times and several times I have said no.  But ... I got to thinking that more money would allow me to buy more supplies, which I seem to always want more of!!   So, this time I said yes!  Their scrapbook customers have said they really like my card style. Hopefully, some will sign up!   You can see the details here.  Just scroll down until you find my class on April 9th. 

I'll be back tomorrow with another card creation for you.  See you then.
Happy Stamping!
Tina 

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Hello!  Today, not only do you get a St. Patrick's Day card from me, but you also get a sketch, a tip, an idea, and a tutorial.  Let me get right to the card and then we can go from there.  Enjoy!

 First, let me show you the sketch ...

Now, for the tip ... This tip was actually a tip from my friend Karolyn, I tried it, it worked so I am passing the tip on to you!  On my card, the border of shamrocks and the shamrock corner are both rub-ons.  I love rub-ons but don't often use them.  The main issue I have with them is how you rub one part down but not all of it and you have to go back and try to line it up to get the rest.  With this tip, it comes out perfectly on the first try!  I cut out the portion of the rub-on I wanted, placed it on my card where I wanted it to be, adhered it with a piece of removable scotch tape, and ...this is the best part ... run it thru your die cut machine!!  Perfect!   Thanks Karolyn!

Next, the idea ... My shamrock was made with three heart shaped nestiblilities.  Here is a pic of of the 3 hearts out of green cardstock. (I was going with these, before I decided to look thru my stash for the green glitter paper). 

Last bur not least is my tutorial.  There are several companies out there, including Sizzix in conjunction with Tim Holtz who have come out with dies to make the rosettes like the one I used on my card.  I realized that all the dies out there have one thing in common, they score in even spaces along a strip.  I decided who needs a die to help me score, I can do that!  I did all my scoring with Martha Stewarts score board...I love this tool.  Since I was making my own rosette, before adding my score lines, I used a border punch along the edge of my strip which measured 11" long x 1 1/4" tall. 

After I  punched my border, I made score lines ever 1/4 inch.  To make it easier to fold accordion style, I actually made 1/2" score lines from end to end and then turn my strip over and did 1/2" scores lines on the other side. 
 

After the whole strip is scored, you tape the two ends together.  It forms this circle that you will just push flat to form the rosette.



Scissors are holding down rosette

Next, I squeezed the circle tighter and added two small circles to both side to keep rosette in place.

BUT, I found that over time, it won't stay together and it pops the circles off.  So, here is where I need suggestions.  Got any ideas?  For my adhesive I used the red liner tape which is quite strong.  If I come up with more solutions I will let you know.  Nevertheless, it is still very cool and easy to make.  Also, by cutting the strip and doing your own scoring, you could change the size of your rosette.  You know next time, I might try making it out of different paper, possibly something less heavy than cardstock.  Maybe then, the adhesive would adhere better. 

Recipe:

Paper - Reminisce, Cardstock White, Green, Light Green, Glitter Adhesive Paper -unknown
Stamps - Sentiment by Studio G $1 clear stamps
Ink - Versafine Black
Tools - Rub-Ons by Karen Foster, Classic Heart Nestibilities, Stampin' Up Scalloped Border Punch
Other - Rhinestones by Hero Arts & Queen & Co., Ribbon, Twine by The Twinery

Since, I started this week on Sunday with DeNami's blog hop, I guess that is the five cards I have for you this week.  At least, I think that's all.  But, who knows, I might sneak another post in.  If I don't see you before, have a great weekend!  And Happy St. Patrick's Day to you! 

Happy Stamping!
Tina

Celebrate Spring!

Hello!  I can't wait for you to see my card for today!  It is so different than my "normal" look.  I often see on the other blogs cards that have a vintage feel to them.  I always think they are so pretty, but just not a look I usually do. Recently, I purchased a package of trims that had this great lace in it, so I just knew I wanted  to do my attempt at the vintage look!  I also saw on one of the blogs, a creation of a spring nest out of twine and pearls.  Combining those two, I was off and running.  But, I quickly found they used a real twine, one that is a bit sturdier than the linen thread I have.  I wouldn't be discouraged so easily, so I went with the linen thread anyway.  I also made my card with this week's sketch from Viva la Verve over on Splitcoast Stampers so after I show you my card, I will also show the sketch.  I know you are ready to see my card ... here it is... enjoy!

And a close-up of my little nest....















And this is the sketch ...

Yes, you would have thought this sketch should have been used for tomorrow's St. Patty's Day card, but the sketch totally fit my idea in my head of this card with the nest and all, so I used it for this one.  I always see where they note that you may substitute the shapes as needed, well this was one of those times.  Now a quick side story, my stepgranddaughter, who is 11, is visiting us this week during her spring break and she has been out in my stamp room with me some.  She knew I was using sketches to create my card.  So, she tells me she wants to make a card too but she is not going to cheat by following a sketch!  All I can say to that, is thank goodness there are so many wonderful ideas out there for me to "cheat" from!  Woo Hoo! 

I see that my card might also fit another Verve challenge on Splitcoast, the Get Your Diva On, as their challenge is to use all neutrals with a splash of color, which my card totally fits.  I am not sure I have ever added one card to two different challenges from the same company, but I might try!  Did y you see the scalloped punch I used on the side of the panel.  I love it and it is perfect for the "look".  I recently got this from one of the bloggers I frequent from a sale they were having.  I have many items in my stamp room I don't use, but give them up?  Not likely!  But, I am very glad others do ... thanks to Teresa Kline. 

Recipe:

Paper - My Minds Eye Stella & Rose from Mabel pad 6 x 6, Cardstock Dark Brown
Stamps - Circle image under nest from Verve One Person set, Celebrate Spring by American Art Stamp
Ink - Versafine Vintage Sepia
Tools - EK Success Scalloped Punch, EK Success Corner Punch, Petite Scalloped Oval Nestibilities
Other -  Natural Linen Thread by The Cat's Pajamas, My Minds Eye Mabel Little Lady Trims, Pearls by Hero Arts

Since this card was different for me, I would love to hear what you think. Please leave me a comment. I always love to hear your thoughts!  Be sure to stop in tomorrow.  I have a St. Patty's Day card for you with a sketch, a tip, an idea, and a tutorial!  Wow!

Happy Stamping!
Tina

Patchwork Cowboy!

Hello!  Did you think I forgot today is the 3rd Tuesday of the month, making it a Texas Tues-Step Day?  Well, I almost did!  I made a few cards over the weekend and had one set to post for today, and then I realized "oops", I need a Texas card for Tuesday!  My card for today came together very easily.  I recently purchased some scrapbook paper that I could see for a western card.  Not that you could tell from what they called the paper ... "Dino Patch" ... yes, as in dinosaurs!  You see, the whole 12 x 12 was divided up into various patterned squares.  Yes, some did have dinosaurs, but I didn't use those!  Now that I have your attention and I have made you curious, I guess I should show you my card.  Here it is.  Enjoy!

I used a scallop punch to make the squares, which I haven't used in forever!  Of course, that reminds me of a story of when I still had my store.  Marvy and McGill had punches that created these scalloped shapes, and I carried them all in my store.  At this time, Spellbinders nestibilities dies were just being introduced.  One day a customer came in and wanted to return the punches she had bought, because now she has the new nestiblities dies and she didn't think she would use both.  I talked her into keeping the punches, thinking that the nestibilities would never replace our punches and we would still use them everyday.  Boy, was I wrong.  I rarely use my punches, but I did today!   And I like how it came out, don't you?

Recipe:

Paper - Three Bugs in a Rug Dawson Line called Dino Patch, Cardstock Kraft, Blue, Cork
Stamps - Barbed Wire Border, Cowboy, Texas by Deadbeat Designs, Heart by Hero Arts
Ink - Marvy Matchable Dark Blue, Versafine Black, Prismacolor Pencils, Gamsol
Tools - McGill Scalloped Square Punch, Classic Circle Nestibilities
Other - Blue Twine from Stampin' Up (I think ...found in my stash), Button, Ribbon

As far as I know The Texas Tues-Step team members that are participating this week are  Jennifer, Betty, Danielle, Karen, and Mark.  Look for their links on the right side of my blog.  And don't forget to leave them comments.  We all love comments from you!

I can't wait for you to see the card I have to share for you tomorrow.  So, make sure you stop back by!

Happy Stamping!
Tina

Floral Frenzy Card 2!

Hello!  If you haven't participated in DeNami Designs blog hop from yesterday, there is still time.  You have until Monday night to leave comments on the blogs to be eligible to win a prize.  Just scroll down to yesterday's post, and get started!  They are having an additional challenge, where anyone can make a card with the Floral Frenzy theme and link their card to the DeNami blog.  Today's card is made for this challenge.  Let me get to it ... enjoy!
 

I did a little direct to paper technique with Tombow markers directly on the stamp and spritzed with water before stamping.  I went back and added more ink with a waterbrush.  I wanted it to look watercolored and I think it came out quite nice.  I did very good in getting it to match the scrapbook paper I used.  How do you like it?

Recipe:

Paper - Sei Mimosa Line, Cardstock White, Yellow, Pink Coral
Stamps - DeNami Designs Trifles - Elegant Spring Flowers Set
Ink - Tombow Markers, Waterbrush
Tools - Stampin' Up Scalloped Border Punch, Tim Holtz Sizzix Bracket Die
Other - Prima Flower, Ribbon by Creative Impressions, Yellow Rhinestones by Hero Arts, Large Rhinestone by Me & My Big Ideas

I should be back tomorrow with another creation! 

Happy Stamping!
Tina

Hey Chickie to all the DeNami Blog Hoppers!

Hello and welcome!  I am excited to get to participate in this month's DeNami Design's blog hop.  I can't wait to see every one's creations.  It will be especially fun with the floral frenzy theme!  If you want to start at the beginning or if you get lost along the way, just click on the badge above and it will take you back to home base.  If you are "hopping" along, you should have come from Katie's blog.  If so, you are on the right track.  Let's get to my card.  I used one of my favorite layouts.  Enjoy!

  

DeNami has just about the cutest petite stamps of any company out there!  I took advantage and stamped their small daisy from their Petit Fours set, called Rosevine Flower Stamp Set and then the other two stamps, Hey Chickie and the Chickie with Flower, I got at the stamp convention back in January, just waiting for this special day to use them!  I love how my card came out.  I hope you like it too!

Recipe:

Paper - Green Floral by We R Memory Keepers Peep Line called Easter Bouquet, Cardstock Pink, Green, Yellow, White
Stamps - DeNami Designs
Ink - Versafine Black, Tombow Markers
Tools - Classic Scalloped Circle & Classic Circles Nestibilities, McGill Tag Punch, Stampin' Up paper piecing template, Tim Holtz paper piercer
Other - Ribbon by $1 Target bin, Button by Doodlebug Designs, Twine by The Twinery, Rhinestones by Kaiser

Don't forget there are gift certificates that YOU can win!  All you have to do is leave comments on the blogs along the way and your name might be randomly drawn!  How easy is that?  You have until Monday night at 11:59 PST to leave your comments on each of the blogs to get in on the prizes.  There is one more way to win some stamps and that is to make a card with the Floral Frenzy theme and then link your card to the the DeNami Design blog.  Anyone can participate.  Since I made a second card, I will be participating, but you will have to wait until tomorrow's post to see it!  Now, let me get you on your way!  Your next stop is Debbie Marcinkiewicz.

Thanks for visiting my blog.  I hope you like what you saw and will come back and visit real soon.  Or if you want, I would love for you to become a follower so you don't miss any of my posts!  See you tomorrow!

Happy Stamping!
Tina 

Together Til We Coak!

Hello!  I bet you are wondering where I have been!  Well, we had family here over the weekend, and yesterday I met a friend for lunch.  And tomorrow, my hubby & I are off for a little overnight trip for our 4th anniversary.  So, all that adds up to is not much time spent in my "shack" to make cards for you!  I finished the most important one and that is my hubby's anniversary card!  I know you saw the title ... let's get to it... I love how it came out!  Enjoy!

A couple of things ... First, the circles with the repeated sentiment "together til we croak" was printed on the computer. Also, I want to comment about how my ribbon matches the frog colors but the pattern paper is a different green.  I normally would make sure the paper I was using totally matched how I colored my frog and then the embellishment would match too.  This is definitely a different look, but I think I like it.  Maybe, it works because the background paper is very busy so with the colors being different, it creates a contrast to the background.  What do you think?  Do you like it?  I also see now, I left off the pearl/ rhinestone accent in the corners.  Will probably add before giving it.  I did add a few extra details to my frog like glittered heart lips, popped-up head and the google eyes!  Too cute, huh?

Recipe:

Paper - We R Memory Keepers Family Keepsake/Nellie, Cardstock White, Red, Black, Cork
Stamps - Endless Creations all except Lilly Pad is from Our Craft Lounge
Ink - Versafine Black, Prismacolor Pencils, Gamsol
Tools - Classic Scalloped Heart, Classic Heart, Classic Circle Nestibilities
Other -Red Stickles glue, Googly Eyes, Ribbon from $1 Target bin

Sunday is another DeNami blog hop, so make sure you tune in for that one.  This time it is called Floral Frenzy!  My card idea is still in my head but I definitely will have it done and posted bright and early Sunday morning for the blog hop!  It's gonna be pretty cute! See you Sunday!

Have a great week!  Happy Stamping!
Tina  

It's A Girl!

Hello!  Today I have a really sweet baby card that I recently made and sent to share with you.  I rarely have a need to make a baby card, but when I do, I always think the perfect stamp is this little giraffe that is in one of my Hero Arts clear sets.  Let me show you my card ... enjoy!   

I guess I should have called this post "pretty in pink"!  Because it really is!  I do want to share one tip with you. The sentiment actual stamp read horizontally.  I tried to make it work, but I could see if it was vertical, I could add it to a circle die, keeping with the circles theme.  So ... I pulled it off the wood block, cut the words apart, and placed it back on the block and stamped it vertically!  Perfect!  It actually had enough adhesive so that it easily restuck, but if it hadn't, you can always use some rubber cement to adhere your rubber back to the wood block.  Don't be afraid to change your stamps and make them work for you.

Recipe:

Paper - Pink Dot by Bo Bunny, Congratulations by unknown, Cardstock White, Pink
Stamps - Hero Arts
Ink - Versafine Black, Prismacolor Pencils, Gamsol
Tools - Classic Scalloped Circle, Classic Circle Nestibilities
Other - Ribbon by Stampin' Up, Button by O' Scrap, Rhinestones by Kaiser, Linen Thread by TCP

If you missed my post from yesterday about the Verve Fan blog hop, be sure to scroll down to see all the details.  You still have time to leave comments on the participant's posts (like mine), so that you might be the lucky commentor to win a gift certificates to Verve.  You just never know! 

That is it for me for this week!  Have a great weekend!

Happy Stamping!
Tina

Verve Fan Blog Hop!

Hello!  I saw on the Verve blog where they are having a Verve fan blog hop, stress-free style.  What I mean by stress-free, is that anyone who is a fan of Verve and has at least one of their stamps, can join in and you have several days to get your card completed and several days to leave comments on the other blogs for  chances to win prizes!  Well, you know I am definitely a fan.  So, here I am with my card!  Verve also has monthly sketch challenges on the Splitcoast Stampers forum so I combined today's card with the current week's sketch.  I love my card I did, so pretty, between the image and all the papers I used.  But, last night before I went to bed, I wondered if it had that "wow" factor that I would like to do for a blog hop.  In the end, I decided to just go with it, as it does show Verve stamps in a very pretty way!  Here is my card, the sketch and then I will give you more details how you can win some of the prizes!

One note about the card... I need to share my "happy mistake". I originally stamped the flower in a gray color ink, thinking I was going to like it since it would match the papers more.  But then after I colored it in, I thought maybe I should have stamped in in black instead.  So, since this stamp is clear, it was very easy to over-stamp it in black.  But, when I did this it did not get lined up exactly and so it created a kind of shadow.  And I love it!  Hence, "happy mistake"!  Here is a close-up pic, which if you click on, it will give you a very close-up view ...

Recipe:

Paper - My Minds Eye Stella & Rose - Hazel 6 x 6 pad (Love it!), Cardstock White, Rose
Stamps - Verve Stamps - Sentiment is a Plain Jane, and Flower is from One Person set
Ink - Versafine Smokey Gray and Versafine Black, Prismacolor Pencils, Gamsol
Tools - shhh ... don't tell anyone I made a card without using my nestibilities!
Other - Flower rhinestones by Hero Arts, Pink circle rhinestones by Kaiser

Here are the details on how to win some prizes ...
1. Be a lucky commenter on one of the Diva Hop spots for a chance to win a $30 gift certificate to Verve
You can find the master list of the Divas participating if you go here.  The deadline to do this is 11:59 p.m. Mountain, March 5th.

2. Participate (like I did) in the Verve Fan Blog Hop, by creating and linking a new Verve creation for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate to Verve.  You would link your creation to the same blog as above.  The deadline to participate is noon mountain, March 5th.

3.  Be a lucky commenter on one of the Verve Fan Hop spots for a chance to win a $30 gift certificate to Verve.  Same link above will get you to the list of fan's cards. Deadline to leave your comments is 11:59 p.m. Mountain, March 6th.

I want to comment that I am just a fan, just a customer of Verve, but like to share the things I see out there in blog land with you.  Speaking of sharing, I have something else I want to pass along.  Becca with Amazing Grace, has started a monthly forum on her blog where crafters can time in on suggestions to the theme of the month.  February's theme was about "getting organized".  There are some great suggestions for all us stampers and crafters.  If you would like to go through the comments, go here for this post.  Warning though, I think there are close to 300 comments and suggestions to look at.  I think on her current blog post that came out today, she is looking for comments on  being a "frugal papercrafter".  You can see the post here.  If she is not a blog that you follow, you should.  She creates some amazing cards.  We all need inspiration!

Well, that is it for me today.  I guess I will look forward to the comments you are going to leave me on my Verve card today!  You never know maybe your comment will be the lucky one!  I am off to leave my comments on the other fan cards now.  I want to be the lucky one too!

I made a sweet baby card a few days ago and I am hoping the recipient will receive it, so I can show you the card tomorrow.

Happy Stamping!
Tina

Time's Fun when You're Having Flies!

Hello!  I do have a card for you today but this post is really about ribbon!  Yes, ribbon!  You see a few years ago, I purchased a ribbon keeper to house all my ribbons.  You can see the one I have here.  At the time, I thought it would be a perfect solution.  And, I spent a couple of days pulling all my ribbon pieces thru the holes.  But ... over time, the pieces have come out of the holes, and then when you look inside the zippered compartment, all you see is a big mess.  So, time for a new idea!  I decided to go simpler... popsicle sticks, double sided tape to hold the getting started point, and straight pen to hold it all together after the wrapping is done.  I also found out that I have tons of beautiful ribbons, many that I don't use as much as I used to.  I do know the reason why.  You see, when I still had my store, most of the cards I created were made with lots of solid papers and stamped designs so that I could use multiple color ribbons.  The way I make cards now, which don't get me wrong, I do love, but now I use lots of scrapbook papers that are already multiple colors, leading me to need solid ribbon colors.  So today, I used a beautiful multiple color ribbon for my card!  I can do it!  And now, that I can more easily see what I do have, I will try to do this more!  One more note, I found I have over 225 different ribbons!  Can we say ... sickness!  Of course, you are reading my blog, so I know you have this same sickness!  Let's get to my card and then I have some pics of all the ribbon rolled on the popsicle sticks.  Enjoy!

This set of stamps I purchased at January's first stamp convention and I am so glad I finally got the chance to ink them up!  I have another couple of ideas with them, so you will probably see them again soon!  I used a sketch from Mojo Monday that I don't think I have ever done.  See the sketch here.  Don't you love the saying?

Recipe:

Paper - Green Pattern by Doodlebug Designs, Cardstock White, 2 Greens, Wine, Yellow
Stamps - Endless Creations
Ink - Versafine Black, Prismacolor Pencils, Gamsol
Tools - Classic Circle, Lacey Circle Nestibilities, Cuttlebug Seeing Spots, Cuttlebug Polka Dots, Sizzix Basic Grey Snow Flowers Embossing Folders
Other - Ribbon by May Arts, Rhinestones by Hero Arts

Now, let's get to the ribbon pics...





3 Drawers Full

Drawer of Black, Brown, White, Beige



Drawer of Blue, Green, Purple





Drawer of Red, Pink, Orange, Yellow



Now, will I like how I have them in the 3 drawers?  Don't know yet, but for now, that is the plan.  I do have quite a number of ribbons that were in lengths less than 1 yard, that I think I will pull thru the holes of that original bag!  It will be the place I will go to first, and then if I don't have something that will work there, then I will go to the drawers.  I have about 5 rolls of ribbon that had more than 3 yards on them that I have decided to not unroll but keep in a separate basket nearby.  So, that is my ribbon and my ribbon plan.  Thanks so much for letting me share! 

I hope to get another card finished so I can share that with you tomorrow.

Happy Stamping!
Tina












Happy 175th Birthday Texas!

Howdy Y'all!  We are Tues-Steppin' today!  For this Texas Tues-Step, several of the team have taken the offered challenge to create something for Texas Independence Day which is actually tomorrow!  So, in my post today, you will not only get what I created, but a little Texas history lesson too! After I did a little research, I realized I had actual photos that I should add to my creation. Last summer on our trip with family down to Corpus, Gary & I stopped on our way back to Washington-On-The-Brazos historical site and park.  So, I found the camera they were in, uploaded them and printed them.  So, my idea was 3 panels but thinking about how to create a book with only three panels wasn't working so well.  So, I was trying to figure out what I could put on 2 additional panels I thought I would need to create this book, when a friend called.  She had recently been at a craft store in Irving (Googly Eyes) where they happen to sell Deadbeat Designs stamps.  She saw a sample with three panels, a tri-fold, actually made by Mark. (Owner and on this Texas team).  So, I was off and running with my new idea!  Thanks to Eileen and Mark!  I finished all the panels last night but the front panel had so much Stickles on it, I had to wait until today for it to dry to take photos.  Love the finished creation.  I hope you will too!  Enjoy! 



All 3 Panels





Front Panel



Middle Panel



Last Panel with History Lesson



Backside of Tri-Fold

I hope that you can see the third panel well enough to read the little history lesson about Texas.  If you click on it, it should enlarge for you.  On this subject, I do have one more thing to share. I found a quote, I would like to share with you. It is from state historian, Light Cummins, an Austin College history professor. It is this...
"The independent spirit that reigned on the Texas frontier during the era of the Texas Revolution can still be seen today throughout the state. Texans today pride themselves on being independent, hardworking, innovative and no-nonsense people, all of which is reflected in our view of those who participated in the Texas Revolution."

Thanks Mr. Cummins ... well said!

Recipe:

Paper - Stripes by Creative Imaginations, Cardstock White, Red, Blue, Chipboard numbers from unknown (in the stash)
Stamps - Birthday Cake by Verve stamps, Texas on Cake by Deadbeat Designs, Celebrate by Limited Edition (know this is old because they have been out of business for a long time)
Ink - Versafine Black
Tools - Stickles, Classic Circle, Lacey Circle, Scalloped Rectangle Nestibilities, Cuttlebug Polka Dot embossing folder, Texas Punch by Punch Bunch
Other - Ribbon by $1 Target bin, Rhinestones by Queen & Co.

Make sure you find the Texas Tues-Step team member on the right side of my blog.  Check out the blogs of  Danielle, Jennifer, Karen, and Mark.  And later today, Betty's.  And remember to leave comments, we all love to hear from you!

See you tomorrow!  Happy Birthday Texas! 
Happy Stamping!
Tina