Stamping in Embossing Powder |
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Today's Serendipity Design Team Challenge is: Spring Cleaning The idea was to use something in our stash that we hadn't used in awhile. I thought embossing powder!  While they say embossing powder has a shelf life. I've had this embossing powder for over 10 years. This is a fun technique that I learned a long, long time ago. Here's what you'll need:
Embossing Powder (I used Gold, Brass, Copper and Silver)
Matboard (or paper)
Retro Owl Stamp (from Serendipity Stamps, of course)
Piercing Tool
Twigs
Wire
Black Brads
Frame
How to make the framed Owl:
1. Pour gold embossing powder in a shallow container or dish.
2. Rub pigment ink all over the matboard.
3. Immerse matboard in embossing powder and shake off excess.
4. Heat matboard with Embossing Heat Tool until all the powder is melted.
5. This is where you'll have to work fast. As soon as you've finished
melting the powder, immerse it back into the embossing powder. Because
the powder is still hot, the embossing powder will stick.
6. Reheat the second layer of embossing powder. Repeat the process
two more times for a total of 4 layers of embossing powder.
7. Pick a couple of colors of embossing powder. I used Copper, Brass,
and Silver. (colored embossing powder works well also)
8. Heat a section of the matboard until melted. Pour a little of the next
color of embossing powder on it. Some of the powder will melt immediately.
Heat until fully melted. Continue reheating sections of the matboard and
adding additional embossing powders until satisfied.
9. Ink Owl Stamp with pigment ink. (this keeps it from sticking)
10. Reheat matboard and embossing powder until molten state.
Stamp into melted powder with Owl Stamp. Wait a few seconds and
pull up. (Success!!!)
11. Poke holes into eyes with piercing tool and add shiny round black brads.
12. Adhere onto a additional piece of black matboard, poke holes on the
bottom and wire a couple small twigs. Put into frame.
When I got the idea of stamping into the embossing powder I knew I wanted
to use the Retro Owl, but, I had no idea what I was going to do with it.
I guess it was "Serendipity" that it fit perfectly into the little black frame.
Be sure to check out the other Serendipity Design Team members: Enabler Alert!!!
It’s coupon time at www.serendipitystamps.com.
Just enter the code “40FROMHIGH” on the checkout page after
you select your shipping.
You will get 40% off the highest priced item in your cart.
This code expires Monday May 21st. One coupon per customer.
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ImpressArt Blog Hop and Drawing |
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 A few weeks ago, I was given the opportunity along with 21 of my fellow Designers to make a project using ImpressArt's metal stamping products. I had never used metal stamps before and was excited at the possibility of what I would create. Every once in a great while, I get a vision of exactly what I want to make and this was that time. (I love it when that happens) We were all given a variety of tools to play with. (so much fun!) Let me tell you, these tools are great if you have a little extra energy to use up. (Not so good if the family is sleeping.)  I started with an inexpensive wood frame from IKEA and acrylic paint.
 Using my ImpressArt Metal Stamping Hammer and ImpressArt Design Heart Stamp, I randomly stamped the heart design onto the wood frame by tapping the end of the metal heart stamp with the 1-lb. brass hammer using medium pressure. Because the frame was inexpensive and the wood type not the same all over, I did get a little inconsistency in my stamping. (I embraced the imperfection) I will be honest, I did practice on two frames before I deemed this one acceptable. After I finished stamping, I painted the frame with Engine Red acrylic paint and allowed it to dry thoroughly. I then painted over the frame with the Black acrylic paint making sure to get the paint into the stamped hearts. I quickly wiped the excess paint off with a damp paper towel. To give the paint a shiny look, I painted it again with Liquid Laminate from Beacon Adhesives.  Next I wanted to stamp on the metal. That took a little more practice.
After checking out the instructions on the website and watching a video on YouTube. I practiced several times on the extra pieces of metal stamping blanks. I then stamped the word "England" on a little brass tag.  I used a black paint pen to color over the letters and then lightly sanded over the letters with a sanding block. (Too darn cute!!!) Even though the "g" isn't perfect, I love the look. I finished off the frame with a pinwheel made from paper from My Minds Eye and some ribbon and trim. The picture is from Mom and Dad's 50th Anniversary Trip to England. Thank You Adam and Jeff of ImpressArts Metal Stamps for this opportunity!  Here's the Good Part! ImpressArts Metal Stamps is giving away a
Grand Prize valued at up to $120.00 and contains:
1 ImpressArt alphabet set of the winner's choice
1 ImpressArt Steel Stamping Block, small
1 ImpressArt Metal Stamping Hammer
1 ImpressArt Stamp Straight Tape
An Assortment of metal discs
To enter the contest, click here.
Check out the other Designers participating in the ImpressArt Blog Hop. Scroll back up and look for this logo on the right sidebar. |
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Remembering the special women in my life: part 3 |
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 This is my mom.
She is a sweet, loving, kind woman with beautiful blue eyes.
Family is everything to her.
 My mom was a stay at home mom.
As a child I felt so much comfort in always having her around.
 As I grew to a woman she became a friend and confidant.
My mom went to college the same year as me.
We even had a few classes at the same time and carpooled.
How weird is that?
Honestly, I was extremely proud of my mom.
She had the courage to go after her dreams.
Mom would do anything for you. She is a good woman.
I learned so much from her.
She raised 5 kids in a very small home.
She made sure we all made it to Sunday School and Church every week.
She taught Childrens Church for over 25 years.
She instilled my good Christian faith.
She taught me value, honesty, kindness and to be fair.
Several years ago, my mom was diagnosed with Dementia.
At first, we weren’t allowed to say the “D” word.
We hid it as long as we could.
We went to every specialist, took every advice.
Did all we could.
As Mom progresses into advanced stages,
we still try to do all we can.
Sometimes, it just isn’t enough.
I love my Mom and it hurts me to see her this way.
The good thing is that her hugs still feel the same.
She can still say “I love you.”
 Happy Mother’s Day!
(I love you too, Mom.)
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Remembering the special women in my life: part 2 |
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Grandma M is another special woman in my life. She was the Creative Grandma. A very loving, extremely talented, deeply religious woman. Grandma was a known for being a seamtress. That lady could sew anything. Most of the clothes we wore as young kids came from my Grandma. She sewed all of our dresses, barbie clothes, stuffed animals. You name it. She even made my Wedding Dress. She was special!  Grandma was the Ultimate Crafter/ Craft Hoarder. I believe she tried every craft available to her. She painted ceramics, oil, acrylics and even got into beading for a while. She took great pride in all her work. While Grandma B. was known for her perfectly kept house, Grandma M. was the "messy grandma", always a project in process. As a creative soul, I understand. When it came to helping Grandma M. move to a Senior Complex it took a bit longer to clear out her stuff. (a whole summer, I believe) She had a back bedroom that used to be her "storage". Way back in the late 70's or early 80's, boxes shifted and she no longer could open the door. When it came time to cleaning out her place, that was the last room to be tackled. We all dreaded that room. What we didn't know was that room was like a time capsule, all the good stuff was in that room. Like this vintage doll outfit that she had sewn and never given away. One of my favorite memories of helping her move was the evening in that old back room when we found her old love letters written to my grandfather at the age of 14. I remember racing my brother and sister back to my mom's house so that we could show Grandma what we had found. She tried to act embarrassed, all the time loving all the attention. My first grandma died when I was in my early twenties, I think of her often. She's the reason I love old photo's and why I'm so sentimental. Grandma M. died when I was in my forties, so, I had her a lot longer. She showed me the "joy of creating". I loved them equally, they were both wonderful women who helped shape my life and influence who I am today.
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Remembering the special women in my life: part 1 |
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 Growing up as a child I was lucky to have two grandmas.
Both grandmas were special and both grandmas were quite different.
Grandma B. was the traditional grandma.
She was sweet, consistent and extremely kind hearted.
She had a strong sense of family and instilled my love of old photographs.
She was one of the youngest of 14 children.
Her name was Emma and she had my father, her first child,
in 1931 at the age of 34.
(Grandma B. was 20 years older than my other Grandma,
so she seemed much older.)
 When I was young, we’d spend every Sunday afternoon over at Grandmas
playing with cousins. In the evening we'd have to be real quiet as grandma
watched "The Lawrence Welk Show". I loved it when she'd dance to the music.
I can still hear her singing "Let me call you Sweetheart." (I love that song.)
This is how I like to remember Grandma's house.
(I'm the one on the bottom left making my cousin laugh)
In 1980, after almost 50 years in her home, the city took her block by eminent domain. (They put up a shopping plaza, I won't shop there!)
After losing the fight, she moved to a Senior Complex with grace.
Even though it was a sad situation,
helping Grandma move is still one of my fondest memories.
One day while helping her pack, we stumbled across Grandma's
old hats in the wardrobe of her bedroom.
We all picked a hat, grandma included, and wore them while we worked.
After the day was done, she allowed me to keep my hat and pearls.
(see above picture) I keep them on my dresser.
 See this old bowl?Several, several years ago, I stumbled across a bowl at a garage sale for a
quarter. I was so excited to find the bowl because it looked just like one of
grandma’s bowls. (the girls at the sale thought I was nuts)
I loved that bowl, even though it wasn’t hers it still reminded me of her.
A few years later my husband broke the bowl.
I was sad, but it still was just a garage sale bowl.
That year for mother’s day, he found another bowl at an antique shop for $5.00
and bought me that bowl. I still think of grandma every time I use that bowl.
I know, call me a sentimental fool.
One of Grandma's favorite sayings "See you in the funny papers."
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Bluebird of Happiness Necklace |
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Todays Designer Craft Connection Blog Hop is: Quick and Easy Jewelry  The other day I picked up the new “Flight” Squeeze Punch from Fiskars.
The “flight” squeeze punch is part of a series of designer punches from
Jenni Bowlin that’s only available in the spring and summer of 2012.
 I punched the “flight” punch out of sanded shrink plastic. Color the punched
image with colored pencils. Then shrink using a heat tool or oven.
 Punch a 1” circle from decorative scrapbook paper. Glue pieces inside a
flattened bottle cap. (available online www.sunandmooncraftkits.com)
 Add a “happy” sticker and fill with Glossy Accents, Diamond Glaze or Crystal Lacquer.
 As it dries it will become clear. Allow approx. 10-12 hours to dry.
The project takes less than an hour to put together.
Wouldn’t it make a great gift? (Mother's Days coming, Hint, Hint!!!)
Make Sure to Check out the other Designers
Just look for the Designer Crafts logo on my right side bar to start hopping.
Coming up Saturday May 12th
 Join me and 19 other designers for a special Impress Arts Blog Hop.
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Happy National Scrapbooking Day! |
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To Celebrate National Scrapbooking day, I thought I'd bring out some of my first scrapbook pages. I started Scrapbooking in the late 90's when supplies were very limited. Stickers and templates were the trend. I looked for my very first scrapbook page but couldn't seem to locate it. Just as well, you would have laughed.
Remember when templates was the trend?
At least I used a little memorabilia on my page. (Very Simple.)
I love this layout. Love the pictures. (Cousins, not twins) Sometimes I wish they were this little again. (just sometimes) Have a great day and remember to catch some memories!
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Serendipity Stamps Design Team Hop |
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 The theme for the Serendipity Stamps Design Team Blog Hop is Butterflies.
That was an easy challenge since Serendipity Stamps just came out with this brand new Floral Butterfly Stamp. (Available as a stamp, die cut or three piece set.)
I stamped the butterfly several times, several different ways. When I first stamped the above image, it didn't turn out exactly how I invisioned it. So.... I put it aside until morning. Once I saw it again in the morning I knew I liked it. It reminded me of a calico print dress. I used my markers to color directly onto the stamp before stamping. I debated on how I wanted to finish the card and decided to keep the layers simple. I wanted to keep the butterfly as the highlighted feature. Be sure to check out the other Serendipity Design Team members: *Serendipity Stamps has "Free Shipping" on orders over $10 until May 7th.
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Raspberries |
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A quick share of the card I made using Serendipity Stamps new "Blackberries" stamp. I made my berries raspberries by coloring them red. I stamped the image in black archival ink onto white watercolor paper and simply water colored the raspberries using my tombow markers. The card is layered using Spellbinder's dies. Products Used:
S4-354 Splendid Circles (www.SpellbindersPaperArts.com)
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Sprinkler |
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 I just love my new stamp "Sprinkler" from Serendipity Stamps. The little boy playing in the sprinkler reminds me of my grandson, Nicholas. Nicholas is a water baby, he loves being in the pool, playing in the water. This summer should be extra fun now that he's running around. Serendipity Stamps has several images in their new Spring and Summer release. Check them out at www.serendipitystamps.com
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Delightful Album |
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I just finished my "Delightful Album" for National Scrapbooking Day. Saturday, May 5th 1:00-3:00 p.m. Cost is $25.00 If your local, please come and join me. This album is full of tips, techniques and embellishments for the "girly" side of you. Made with papers and stickers from Authentiques Papers "Delightful" Collection.
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Arts Day |
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Yesterday was Arts Day at my son's school. It's one of those crazy, chaotic days that I try not to teach. I like to go and just help out.  This year I got to learn something new, Glass Art.  The kids were allowed to either... make a suncatcher, owl necklace or pendant. For the suncatcher, the kids were given a clear piece of glass. They drew their design on the glass with a sharpie. Then they went over their lines with a clear glue that burns off. After they finished with their designs, finely ground black glass was poured over the glue and allowed to set. After a couple of minutes the kids were allowed to pour off the black powder. The kids then spooned on small coarser pieces of glass to fill in the pattern. The tile will then be taken back to the shop and fired in a kiln. (examples of finished glass owls after being fired) I was even allowed to play. I made and owl necklace and pendant, I can't wait to get it back after its been fired.  The shop is called Created Just By Me. www.createdjustbyme.com
If your local, the shop is in Washington on the Square.
They are a pottery and art studio.
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Tattered Angels |
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It's been years since I've taken the time to sit down and actually take a class. So, when I heard that Stayce DeWid of Tattered Angels was coming to Scrapadoodle I rearranged my schedule so that I could attend. I'm so glad I did. I'd never played with the Tattered Angels products and I really learned a lot.
We all enjoyed making a "glimmery" mess.
Loads of neat techniques in this class.
Stayce shared canvas scrapbook pages she made with Glimmer Mist. It was definitely an afternoon well spent. Thanks Stayce!
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Celebrate National Scrapbooking Day at Scrapadoodle |
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I will teaching the "Delightful" Album at Scrapadoodle in Peoria, IL to celebrate National Scrapbooking Day on Saturday, May 5th. 1:00-3:00 p.m. Contact Scrapadoodle at 309-691-5151 to sign up. The "Delightful" Album is made with papers and stickers from Authentique Paper's "Delightful" Collection. The album measures 5 1/4" x 5 1/4" and is a 6 panel accordion style scrapbook.
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Mini Mother's Day Box |
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 Time again for another Serendipity Stamps Design Team Hop. The Design Team Challenge for today is "Flourishes". For my project, I decided to make a mini box for Mother's Day.  Serendipity Stamps Used:
378B Scroll Small
615B For You Small
Additional Supplies:
Extra Jumbo Scalloped Circle (Marvy Uchida)
Vivid Inks: Tea Rose, Olive (Clearsnap)
Stickles: Cotton Candy, Diamond (Ranger)
Mini Mister (Ranger)
Corner Rounder
Scrapbook Paper (October Afternoon)
White and Olive cardstock
Lace and mauve ribbon
Small Paper Mache Box
 1. Stamp Scroll stamp with Olive Ink onto each edge of a 2 1/4" x 2 1/4"
piece of white cardstock to create a frame.
2. Using the corner rounder punch, round out each corner.
3. Layer onto a rounded piece of 2 1/2" x 2 1/2" olive cardstock.
4. Dot Cotton Candy Stickles onto flourishes. Allow to dry thoroughly.
 5. Making the flower is easy. Punch six white scallop circles.
6. Ink the edge of each circle with the tea rose ink. (as shown above)
7. Mist the circles with water, allowing ink to run.
8. Stack all circles together and pierce a hole through the center of all circles.
Attach circles with small brad.
9. Starting with the top circle, scrunch the circle to the center. One by one,
continue scrunch the circles to a small wadded up piece of paper.
10. Gently open up the circles to allow the flower to form. Allow flower to dry.
11. Squeeze out Diamond Stickles onto a piece of scratch paper and paint
with paint brush onto the flower. Allow to dry.
12. Cover small box with scrapbook paper. Embellish with lace and ribbon.
13. Add flourish square and flower to top of the box.
 Check out the other Serendipity Design Team members:
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Prairie Art Stamps |
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 I will be teaching my Shabby Ruffled Flower Mini Album and Card Class at Prairie Art Stamps in Springfield, IL Saturday, June 9th
10:30-12:30
Contact the store at: 217-679-0148
I can't believe that it's been almost two years since I was there.
I'm really looking forward to seeing everyone again.
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a perfect memory |
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I made this card for a magazine sketch submission. Even though it didn't get selected, I thought I'd go ahead a share it with you. It is made with Basic Grey's Curio Collection of stickers and paper.
I like to keep the inside of the card simple. It's a great place to add a stamped sentiment or a lovely note thanking a friend for a perfect memory.
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My Sweet Little Easter Bunny |
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One more day until Easter and I've started seeing sightings of the Easter Bunny. Isn't he just the cutest little Easter Bunny. I love this little guy!!! Happy Easter Everyone.
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The Ladies from Wisconsin |
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Yesterday, these ladies took a road trip to my neck of the woods. I went over to Scrapadoodle to meet them and play. I decided to let them be my guinnea pigs for my next class the Ruffled Shabby Flower. They were such a sweet and fun group of ladies. It was such a pleasure meeting you all.
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April Flowers bring May Flowers |
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 This month's theme for the Designer Craft Connection Blog Hop is April Showers brings May Flowers. Around here the flowers and trees are already blooming. My lovely lilacs are at least 4 weeks early. Everyone is working in their yards and I'm just itching to go to the Garden Shop to buy my flowers. If feels like summer. For my Umbrella card:
1. Cut a 6" circle in half. Fold the half circle in half and then half again.
2. Fold each one of those sections in half.
3. Using a small circle punch, cut a small scallop out of each section.
4. Paint a coffee stirer with a silver paint pen.
5. Put together background layers. (5" x 5") Adhere to a 5 1/2" x 5 1/2" card.
6. Fold back the end two sections of the umbrella, trim as needed and adhere
to front of card.
7. Apply a little bit of glue to the back of the silver stick and glue under umbrella.
8. Punch a picket fence border and adhere to front of card using small slivers of
foam mounting squares.
9. Add small adhesive flowers. (mine are from the shabby chic colletion at Michaels)
Check out the other Designers on the Blog Hop. Some are doing Give Aways.
.jpg) Look for this Logo on my right side bar to start hopping.
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Scrapadoodle Class |
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An updated Class Photo for my class at Scrapadoodle April 14th and 24th.
Contact Scrapadoodle at 309-691-5152 for sign ups. Shabby Ruffled Flower Mini Book and Card Saturday, April 14th 1:00-3:00 Tuesday, April 24th 10:30-12:30 Cost: $25.00 In this class you'll learn how to make the Shabby Ruffled Flower using only two punches. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to make. Using coordinating papers
from Little Yellow Bicycle's Swoon Collection along with Shabby Ruffled Flowers
we'll decorate a Mini Album and a coordinating card. A great gift idea.
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Three Little Ducks |
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 This is a card that I did a few years ago for Serendipity Stamps. I will give those sets away to one lucky person who leaves a comment on my blog or on Facebook: Sue's Creative Workshop (if you haven't yet, please "like" me) Leave a comment by Saturday March, 31st. Comments left on my blog are not shown, they are emailed to me and will count!!!
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Happy Spring |
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Even though the temperature is cooler and the rain is coming. I'm in a good mood! A perfect day for a Happy Spring Card. www.jillibean-soup.com
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Patchwork Card |
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I got inspired last night and whipped up this patchwork card. I used a straight edge and fine point marker to draw in stitching. The paper is from Basic Grey's Indie Bloom Collection.
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Serendipity Design Team Challenge: Acetate |
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When the challenge came to work with acetate I thought gee what am I going to do? Then inspiration hit and I decided to make a shaker card. I used this sweet little skunk from Serendipity Stamps. I think he's so stinkin cute. (pun intended) I used an Accu-Cut Shaker card die and filled it with tiny daises with a Marvy Uchida Daisy punch. The skunk is stamped in black and colored with tombow markers.
Need Acetate sheets and don't want to buy a box of 100? Serendipity Stamps now has 8 1/2 x 11 acetate sheets in packs of 10 for only $1.00 you can get it here. (You can add that to your order with the stinkin adorable skunk) I know you're going to need it. Check out the other Serendipity Design Team members:
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Shabby Flower Mini Book Class |
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Shabby Flower Mini Book:
I will be teaching this class at Scrapadoodle in Peoria, IL on Saturday, April 14th from 1:00-3:00 p.m. and repeating the class on Tuesday, April 24th at 10:30-12:30 p.m. You'll be amazed how quick and easy it is to make the Shabby Flower. We'll make a Mini Book to put it on and a coordinating card.
This would make a great gift.
Call Scrapadoodle at 309-691-5152 to sign up.
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Happy St. Patty's Day! |
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Just stopped in to say hoping Good Luck goes your Way! Happy St. Patrick's Day!
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little things make me happy |
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One of my favorite songs is Louie Armstrong's "It's a Wonderful World." It's one of those songs that just makes me happy. I like being happy! Little things make me happy. Like new flowers in Spring.  and playing with my favorite little guy. Take time today to embrace the little things in life that makes you happy!
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Roses in Winter |
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The Serendipity Design Team is at it again with another Blog Hop. The theme this time is Mother's Day with a Dimensional Flower. I really love the sentiment on this card. It holds a special meaning. With my mother's memory fading. I want to hold onto as much as possible. You can get the Serendipity Stamps sentiment here.  Making the Rose is easy. Cut an irregular circle, mine is approx. 2 1/2". Cut the circle in a spiral. Ink the outside edges with Tea Rose Ink. (like above) Start at the outside edge and start rolling in. When you're finished rolling, hold for a few seconds before letting go. The rose will start to unwind. It's like it's blooming. Put a bit of glue under the spiral and onto the center end to hold the rose together. For the leaves, cut a few leaf shapes from cardstock and ink. I used Vivid's Vintage Green. The paper is from October Afternoon. www.octoberafternoon.com I used Marvy Uchida's Border Punch system with the Antique Floral Cartridge. Check out all the wonderful creations from the Serendipity Design Team. Sue Eldred (that's me) I am pleased to announce that one of the Winners from the Serendipity Stamps
drawing for the New Die/Stamp Set came from a comment left on my blog.
Congratulations goes out to April B. from Burlington, Iowa!!! FYI: Even thought the drawing over, you can still leave comments on my blog.
I love to hear what you have to say. (it's nice to know you're there)
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Cards Magazine: March 2012 |
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Check out yours truly on page #80 of Cards Magazine by Northridge Publishing.
I know I'm bragging a little but I was so excited that this card was chosen last Sept. to be in the March 2012 issue of Cards Magazine. (pg. #80) and... I've been waiting 6 months to share it with you. The card was made with papers and stickers from Basic Grey's "Out of Print" Collection. www.basicgrey.com
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Designer Craft Connection Blog Hop |
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 It's the first Monday of the month, time for the Designer Craft Connection
Blog Hop. This month's theme is a Spring Theme.  I decided to reach into my stash and pull out one of my favorite old retired Hero Arts Stamp. I used my Vivid inks and markers to color certain areas of the stamp first and then huffed and puffed a little on the stamp to moisten it before I stamped it onto the white cardstock. I then went back and colored in certain areas of the stamp like the flowers and leaves. I stamped the image again in black onto lavender cardstock and cut out the small letters that spell the word "create".  I tried in vein to get a really great shot of this card. I even tried getting a
little creative. (as you can see up above) I've decided that getting a clear picture of a white card on an overcast week-end is next to impossible. To check out what the other designers have come up with look for this logo on my right side bar to start hopping.
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March |
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There is something about flipping the calendar page to March that just makes me feel good. For me, it's a reminder that Spring's just around the corner. I LOVE Spring!!! Spring is probably my favorite season. Sunshine, Flowers, Warmer Days, New Clothes!!! Living in the midwest we get all four seasons. Usually by now, I'm more than tired of Winter. I hate to say this out loud, at the risk of having a blizzard next week. but... we've really had a mild winter this year. It's really been nice. I could get used to this. My flowers are all coming up and I'm ready to start digging in the dirt. Did you know that March is also National Craft Month?
A whole month dedicated to Being Creative. Hmmm, what should I do first? To get a Free March Calendar Blinkie for yourself go to www.basicgrey.com
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Shared Inspiration |
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This little Mini Fold Book was inspired by a post I saw on Teresa Collins Blog.
The original idea came from Lisa Johnson on her blog www.poppypaperie.com. Here is Lisa's original post from October 2010. Lisa gives you easy to follow step by step instructions. So many possiblities and so quick and easy. The little rhinestone in the center of my ribbon flower came from a box I recently found of old buttons that my grandma had saved long ago. Thanks Grandma for saving all these buttons!!! Don't forget you still have until March 2nd to enter Serendipity Stamps Drawing!
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Serendipity Stamps Design Team Blog Hop and DRAWING!!! |
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 After years of owning a Accu-Cut Machine and hundreds of punches. I've finally gave in and bought a Big Shot Die Cutting Machine. I've always been curious about those intricate dies but just couldn't commit. I recently got another incentive. Serendipity Stamps has just came out with some new thin dies. They are so beautiful when cut. Here is the Heart Scroll Die and the Heart Outline Die. You can purchase it here individually or as a set with matching stamp for only $23.99 (it's like getting the stamp for $2.00) The best part is that the Serendipity Design Team is having a Blog Hop and Serendipity Stamps is choosing two winners to win a set of dies for your own. To be eligible to win one of two sets of dies: Visit each blog and leave a comment (where comments are accepted) Sue Eldred (that's me) To be eligible for the two random drawings: one for the Heart Stamp/Die Set and one for the Egg Stamp/Die Set. You have through March 2nd to leave comments. Comments on my blog are emailed to me and not public. (they will count!!!) Happy Hopping!!!
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Serendipity Stamps Blog Hop Challenge: Layouts |
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The Serendipity Design Team Blog Hop Challenge this time was to do a layout using stamps. I knew exactly which picture and stamps I wanted to use.  Mary from Serendipity Stamps asked me if this was a family picture. Sorry to say, it is not. I purchased the photo several years ago. I liked the photo because there are four sisters in my family. One of my sisters and I used to joke at which one we were. (Since, it's my photo I always got to be the pretty one. ) Serendipity Stamps used were:
282K Postcards
285F Letters Mingle Souls
Background papers and stickers are "Little Black Dress" (www.basicgrey.com) Check out the other Serendipity Design Team Members:
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My Creative Space |
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Some of the ladies in one of my Facebook Groups have been brave enough to share pictures of their work spaces. So... I decided to share with you the real "Sue's Creative Workshop". My space is really small, it's only 8 1/2 feet by 10 1/2 feet. I have to be really organized to be able to be creative in this space. (I totally trash it everytime I work on a project.)
My Desk: This is the cleaned up version. I really do like it clean. When I'm working on a project, it's completely covered with piles. I always feel the need to clean it up before starting a new project. Behind the cabinet doors are my office supplies. I also have a filing cabinet underneath the bookcase area. Up above the cabinets are black storage boxes from IKEA. I have a couple of drawers to my right that holds my favorite inkpads and the other holds scratch paper and tape runners.  In my tiny little space I have three doors. One to my bedroom, one to the hall and another large patio door to our upper balcony where I take most of my pictures.
My Stamp Rack: Just a few of my favorite stamps and punches. It also holds extra cardstock. I have hundreds of stamps. I have most of my stamps in boxes by seasons or type.
Another view of my stamp rack. To the left of the rack is the door leading to my bedroom to the right is the small little closet with shelves.  My Die Cut Center: I have an Accu-Cut machine with lots of dies. The cabinet above holds my embellishments and doo-dads. The drawers hold stamp pads and refill inks. I have a paper rack for my go to cardstock. The basket holds misc cardstock scraps and the wooden box holds glue.
Just a few punches hanging over the door leading to the hall. I have two extra large storage boxes full of punches underneath my bed. (hazard of working with a punch company for so many years)
White cubbies full of paper and Markers. I have three drawers that are Christmas, Valentine's Day and Fall/Halloween the other drawers are divided by manufacturers.  The Closet: My dirty little secret. But.....I can find anything I need in it. I may have to remove things to get to it though. I love shutting the door so I don't have to look at it. My dream space would be much, much larger with a center work space and sink. I hope you enjoyed the tour!
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2 Soar Free |
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We have had such a mild winter here in my little corner of the midwest. Today another beautiful sunny day. I believe I have Spring Fever.
I just love Basic Grey. This card is made with Basic Grey's "Out of Print" Collection.
Look for it at your local scrapbook store. Or you can find it here.
This is the inside of the card. I love their letter stickers!
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Pretty Purple Posies |
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While trying to clean up my office the other day, I got side track by my box of felt. I just had to make a couple more flowers before putting it away. These simple little flowers are so easy to make. (If you're new to the blog, scroll down about 6 posts for directions.)
My sister asked me to come and help her girl scout troop with a project this Spring. I think this little Purple Polka Dot pouch with velcro enclosure would be fun for the girls.
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Happy Valentine's Day |
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Happy Valentine's Day!!!  I wish I remember where I got this idea. (I love giving credit to good ideas.) I used a wood sign that I purchased from Hobby Lobby for around $3.00. The letters on the sign were put together with small tack nails. I took the sign apart and covered each letter with scrapbook paper and glued it back together with my favorite Fabri Tac glue from Beacon Adhesives.  I eliminated the frame portion and decided not to use it as a hanging sign.
I have it up on my mantel instead.  Would you believe that as I was taking the picture it blew off the balcony and fell
into the bushes? You'd think one day I'd learn!
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For the Love of Art: Egg Scroll Card |
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I live in a two story house with a upper balcony.
Since my office is upstairs I usually go outside on the balcony to take pictures
of my projects. I sometimes wonder what my neighbors think of me when
I'm up there taking pictures. (Especially if they happened to see me today.)
After taking the picture of the Egg Scroll Card the card blew off the balcony and onto the garage roof down below.
 There I was first with tongs, then with yard sticks trying to get it back.
Then another gust of wind took my card into the gutter where it still remains.
(at least for the time being) What we won't do for art.
The Egg Scroll Stamp is from Serendipity Stamps. You can get it here.
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Serendipity Stamps Easter Blog Hop |
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Today is Serendipity Stamps Easter Blog Hop. And....I'm cheating a little showing a card that I made last year.
But.....This is probably my favorite bunny image.
I colored the bunny using my Tombow Markers.
I used liquid applique on the tail to make it fluffy.
It is available as a set here at www.serendipitystamps.com Check out more Easter cards from the Serendipity Design Team Blog Hop. Come back tomorrow and I'll show you a new Easter image
from Serendipity Stamps.
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Designer Craft Connection Monthly Blog Hop |
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This month's Designer Craft Connection Monthly Blog Hop is all about
CHA (Craft and Hobby Association Trade Show) and the new trends that
are immerging. CHA ended last week and everyone is home and still
pumped up with all the great new products that they saw.
I was one of the unfortunate ones that was not able to attend.
I sat home all last week drooling and pouting while everyone was
showing pictures and sneak peeks.
But, honestly, I'm as excited as everyone else to start seeing and
playing with the new goodies.
One trend that I am seeing more and more is a cross between
Shabby Chic and Vintage. A little less flowery and a little less
distressed. A trend I personally like. I'm seeing a lot more canvas,
burlap, great new flowers and embellishments.
Please check out the DCC Designer Crafts Connection Logo on the right
side bar of my site to hop around all the other designers to hear about
the new trends they are seeing.
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My Restless Heart |
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 I call this My Restless Heart for a couple of reasons. First because I wanted to do something completely different. And second, because I fully assembled a different tag, photographed it and then tore it apart because I wasn't satisfied.  I used the same Scroll Heart from Serendipity Stamps that I used on the previous post. This time I stamped it in black onto chili cardstock. I used my white opaque stix from Marvy Uchida to color in the image. I used it to make brush strokes. The color goes on light and darkens as it dries.
The back ground paper is from Basic Grey's " Out of Print" and " Little Black Dress" Collections. "love you" stamp is also from Serendipity Stamps.
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Serendipity Stamps: Scroll Heart |
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I made this card with a new stamp I received from Serendipity Stamps.
Serendipity Stamps: 1253E Scroll Heart
564E I'm beginning to learn Additional Supplies: Vivid Ink: Tea Rose
White Color Box Ink White Embossing Powder Heat Tool Ink Applicator Paper Doily Heart Ribbon Foam Mounting Squares White, Pink and Mauve Cardstock (Worldwin Papers) Scissors Double Stick Adhesive Glue Stick Fabri Tac Glue Directions: 1. Stamp Scroll Heart with White Color Box Ink onto white cardstock.
2. Emboss with white embossing powder. 3. Using the Ink Applicator, gently rub Tea Rose Ink over embossed heart. (if your pad is newer or real inky, you may need to rub some of the color
off before applying to cardstock.) Rub with clean rag or towel any excess
ink off the embossed area.
4. Cut out embossed heart and add foam mounting squares to the back. 5. Adhere cardstock layers. (my card is 5" x 7") Stamp verse in Tea Rose ink onto bottom of white layer.
6. Gently rub Tea Rose Ink onto edge of heart doily. Carefully apply gluestick to back of doily and adhere to front of card. Mount embossed heart and add
ribbon bow with a dab of Fabri Tac Glue.
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Floral Felt Pouch |
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I saw these simple instructions posted on Pinterest showing how to make these
simple felt flowers. It came from www.marthastewart.com. (I was intrigued.)
  This is what I made this week-end. A simple Floral Felt Pouch.
I made the flowers with felt just like the picture above. I wasn't happy with the first
few flowers I made, so I made the petals smaller and I added an extra leaf.
  To make the pouch I started with a piece of felt approx. 5" x 11".
For simplicity I put my pouch together with Fabri Tac from Beacon Adhesives.
I folded one end of the felt approx. 4" up and glued the sides.
The other end I embellished with 1 1/2" burlap ribbon, lace and adhesive rhinestones
from Want to Scrap. The flowers and embellished were glued on with Fabri Tac glue.
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Yarn Art |
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 My daughter Stephanie posted this onto Pinterest yesterday. I was so impressed
by her creativity that I asked her if I could share it here on my blog.
She made her yarn art to match the Pendleton Blanket that she received as a
wedding present.
Stephanie said: "The frame was from the thrift store, and then I just wrapped
thrifted (or free from work) yarn around a piece of cardboard from a cereal box.
Im trying to make my projects with things I already have."
It just goes to show what you can do with a little creative imagination.
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Simple White Card |
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 The Serendipity Stamps Challenge for today was to make an all white card. The only color we were allowed to use was in the image. A simple white card. That should be easy right? (You'd think!) Like I've said before, I have a way of making things a lot harder than they should be. But...I am happy with the result. Check out more beautiful cards made by the Serendipity Design Team.
Serendipity Stamps used:
689E Floral Heart Small
556E Hugs and Kisses
The heart was colored using Tombow Markers:
#800 baby pink (background of heart)
#620 lilac (flowers)
#553 mist purple (border around heart)
#158 dark olive (leaves and vines)
#993 chrome orange (center of flowers)
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my shabby heart |
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 I've had these elements laying around on my desk for the last couple of weeks. Not exactly sure what I wanted to do with them. Finally I put them all together. I am a frugal crafter. I found this heart for .25 and the frame for .50 at the local thrift store. The heart was a brassy color so I painted it with my white paint pen and sanded it once it was dry to expose the silver color underneath. I thought the heart looked a little warped so I tried to gently bend it and broke the top. (I glued it back together) So.... I added the small paper rose at the top. Sometimes little accidents work out o.k. (finished piece measures 6 1/4" x 6 1/4")
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Jillibean Soup |
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Nothing warms me more than soup on a cold winter's day. So you can imagine how happy I was when I received this special surprise present from Jill at Jillibean Soup.  I had sent Jill one of my Holiday Planners from the Holiday Workshop. She in turn sent me the Sept. 2011 Card Kitchen Kit Club. It completely made my day!!!  Inside the box was a complete card kit with full instructions to make 8 cards.   To show respect to the designer, Kimber McGray, I made the cards 98% as shown. I had so many goodies left over I had to add a couple of extra embellishments to the cards. I could easily make another 6 or more cards and a layout with the materials left over. The kit used was the September 2011 Card Kitchen Kit Club. It is available to purchase from Jillibean Soup here for $24.99. Check out all the great products at Jillibean Soup www.jillibean-soup.com
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Serendipity Stamps: August and September Calendar Pages |
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Here are the correct Calendar Pages for the Serendipity Design Team's first challenge of the year. (see previous post)  I used the Picadilly Collection from Basic Grey for the August Calendar.
 I used the Summer's End Collection of papers from Fancy Pants Designs for the
September Calendar.
Stamps from Serendipity Stamps www.serendipitystamps.com
  I have most of the months on a board on Pinterest. Check it out here.
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Serendipity Stamps Calendar Pages |
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Well.... Today was the first Challenge of the Year for the Serendipity Design Team. We were each assigned two months to create the Calendar. I'm not sure how I did it, but I mis-read the comma in the email and I mistakenly created the wrong two months. Since they are done and photographed, I will share them with you anyway. Please check out the other Serendipity Design Team member on my side bar to see their calendar pages. My two months were August and September instead of October and November. I promise I will create the correct pages and post them here and on Facebook.   I used the Illustrated Months Stamps 597FCL it is available as a Cling Set for $29.95 from Serendipity Stamps.
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Little Black Dress Album |
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This Album made with paper and stickers from Basic Grey's
Little Black Dress has all kind of tricks and techniques.
I used Marvy Uchida's Border Punch System to punch the inside pages
and to also add a lace detail to the inside back cover.
I made plain stickers dimensional by dusting the back of the stickers with
Baby Powder and layering them up with foam mounting squares. I also used
Marvy's Deco Color Markers to color plain corsage pins to match my album.
The album also taught me a little bit about patience.
I realized that in my hast I had punched the wrong edge of my book.
I quickly recovered with a Tim Holtz Book Plate and a tied ribbon by the binding.
I used my bind it all to punch and bind the book.
Little Black Dress Collection from Basic Grey. www.basicgrey.com
The entire collection is available from www.scrapbook.com for $21.99
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My Mini Altered Cabinet |
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After weeks of Spring like temperatures in December and January,
we finally had our first significant snow.
I cozied in, listened to some music and decided which project
I wanted to work on.
 I purchased this mini cabinet from Hobby Lobby awhile back
with the intention of altering it.
I first painted, inked and sanded then decided to cover it with paper
from Basic Grey's Little Black Dress line of papers.
 You know when you hear that little voice inside your head saying
maybe you should add some glue to those screws before putting
it back together?
Maybe I should have listened.
 This morning I had the bright idea to take a picture outside.
I went out on my deck, set up the picture and the whole thing
fell off the deck and apart. I quickly ran down to pick up the pieces.
Luckily for me, I was able to put it all back together
with only a few screws and a little silver cup being missing in the snow.
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what are you working on? |
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Yesterday was Spring. Today is Winter. I feel cold just looking outside. Funny thing it makes me want to settle in and get creative. Yesterday I made a couple of Valentine's Cards for my Etsy Shop.
Today I've got bigger plans in the works. What are you working on??? More tomorrow....
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A Day with Grandpa |
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 This book was the most talked about Family Gift of the Season. The gift was given to my siblings and I by my sister Rebecca. It was written by my nephew about my father. It is stories in my father's words about his life growing up. Some of the stories I remember some I didn't. It is so great to have them recorded and written down. My nephew, who is into genealogy, added dates, family history and pictures that he had collected along the way. It's fun to hear someone talking about a story from the book and hearing someone else say, "Oh, I haven't got that far." My son and daughter in law have finished the book and are anxiously waiting for the sequel. It's so interesting to learn about someone you thought you knew everything. My father always felt he was a simple man who lived a simple life. My dad was a Remarkable Man with many gifts. Many gifts that he gave his family daily. Reading all the experiences and adventures that he had growing up, this book was a amazing gift given to my entire family. Thanks to my sister Rebecca and especially to my nephew Michael who took the
time to write this wonderful book.
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My New Personalized 2012 Planner |
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Why settle for a plain old planner when you can make it truly special.
I'm pretty picky when it comes to getting my new planner for the year.
Then I ran across this at CVS for $1.99
Now I'm completely happy and somewhat giddy with my new planner.
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January... |
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I just realized this morning that today is the first day I've been alone in over two weeks. I'm not complaining though. I love having the family home. I enjoy being lazy, sleeping in, no real schedules. Except, I find it's really hard to concentrate on being a good blogger. I've thought about this blog several times. Wishing I had something really great to share with you. Something really Profound. I read an article recently on blogging, how we get caught up on the numbers. That's Me! How many people are on your Facebook Page, how many people read your blog. (Sometimes, it surprises me.) Then I feel guilty like I should be blogging more, that I'm letting you all down. (It was a lot easier when I thought no one was reading.) A while back I started following other designers for inspiration. Sometimes it helped, most of the time it just made me feel inadequate. Why do we do that to ourselves? We are all creative individuals! We all have our own special talents. Right? With that said, I've decided to work this year re-focusing on finding my own style again. The great thing about January is a fresh new start. A brand new calendar with clean empty pages, just waiting to be filled. Gone is the messy one with scribbled notes and dates. I'm ready to get started. (I've got a lot to do.) So here's to a brand new year!!!
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Love in the House |
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 The Holidays are barely over and I'm thinking Valentine's Day. I love it when the Creative Juices are flowing. I started rummaging through my drawer of valentine's stuff and found all kinds of neat stuff to play with. I worked on this until 1:30 this morning. This afternoon while I was waiting in line to do a return, I was chatting with a couple of ladies. The line went past the Valentine's Display, they started talking about how it was too soon. (I didn't say a thing!)
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Sue's Tip of the Day |
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 To make your own Customized Trinket Pins. Use Marvy Uchida's Deco Color Markers to paint plain corsage pins. So many colors available.  Get real creative and add polka dots, lines and other designs.
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Fave Crafts Radio |
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Listen to internet radio with FaveCrafts on Blog Talk Radio
Wednesday, I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Pat Sloan for Fave Crafts Radio. Thank You Pat and Fave Crafts for the opportunity. |
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Picadilly Pop Up Card |
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I just love Pop-Up cards. The card was made using Basic Grey new Picadilly scrapbook paper and Stickers. Check out all the new releases at www.basicgrey.com  this is the front of the card (I also used a couple stickers from the new Indie Bloom Collection)  this is the inside of the card  close up of the dimension (I also used Martha Stewarts picket fence punch) Enjoy!!!
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Clever Lever Border Punch from Marvy |
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I recieved this cool Clever Lever Border Punch System from Marvy Uchida and I have fallen in love with these borders.
Check out all the cool cartridges available at www.marvy.com
 "This is the Life" Album measures 5 1/2" x 6".
The "Memories" Mini Album measures 4" x 5".
I punched the inside pages of my book with the border punch before I assembled.
Both Albums were made using:
Bind It All
Creative Imaginations paper & stickers
Marvy Clever Lever Border System Marvy Clever Lever Punches
Ribbon and other embellishments
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(back of my planner)
(a subtle reminder of my 2012 Goal)
