The Willow Garden

Gina K Designs Release party hop

2012-01-31T06:00:00.000-08:00

The Gina K. Design Team is excited to invite you to another fabulous Release Party tonight!! The party starts at 7:00 pm Central Time in the Stamp TV Release Party Forum. Join us for Challenges, Contest Questions, Design Team Samples, Full Stamp Set Reveals and, of course, party chit chat!!! Everything will go "live" at 7:00 pm Central in Gina's Store, so there won't be any long wait to start shopping! Hope to see you there!

If you came from Carolina's blog, then you're right where you should be. If not, please go to StampTV where you will find a list of all those participating. Here's a sneak peek of one of the cards I will be sharing with you at the party tonight:

For my card today, I used Melanie's new set Stately Flowers 3. I stamped the larger flower as a background image onto the pink card stock, and then stamped the sentiment onto the Labels Fourteen die.
I am sooo not a colorer, so I tend to shy away from using floral images that need to be colored. ;) I did however, add my own flower using the new Bauble Blossoms one die. I finished my card off with some Want2Scrap Nestabling in hot pink.

Make sure to stop on by Stamp TV to continue the hop and see you tonight at the party!

thank you

2012-01-29T20:58:00.000-08:00

It's another CAS card for today. I am stuck in a less is more rut lately! Today's card is using the February set Wishes and Kind Thoughts.
I cut and embossed three of the new labels twenty- four die templates from Spellbinders, and stamped the flower onto them before adhering with foam squares. Stamped the sentiment and adhered some bling from Want2Scrap.

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

and it's underway-

2012-01-29T10:34:00.000-08:00

CHA that is. Finally, we can share some of our new Spellbinders die and M-Bossabilities! Check out THIS link to see a live video cast from the show.
This is just a quick card using one of the new M-Bossabilities folder. The folders are awesome, you flip them over and have a whole different design.
Head on over to the spree cast and join in on the new product chatter!
enjoy!!

**stamp set- Sweet Treat Sweetie, Avocado Arts

Spellbinders Abilities and Beyond Blog Frenzy Day 7

2012-01-17T18:59:00.000-08:00

This contest is now closed;however, you may still enter at the blogs listed here.
Thank you for visiting, and good luck!

Welcome to the 7th day of the Spellbinders Abilities and Beyond Blog Frenzy!

Spellbinders™ Paper Arts is absolutely thrilled to bring you our largest product releases ever! These new collections are some of the most innovative and beautiful die cutting and embossing templates in the world! The Spellbinders Abilities and Beyond Blog Frenzy allows you a sneak peek of our introductions for the 2012 Winter Craft and Hobby Association trade show later this month.

Win today’s new Spellbinders products!

Be eligible to win the Grand Prize by entering each day, see the schedule below!

Enter my Blog Frenzy from 12:00 am Eastern Standard Time (EST) January 18^th, 2012 until 11:59 pm January 19^th 2012.

Today’s participating Blog Frenzy includes my blog, Linda Dukes blog, and Sherry Cheever’s blog.

You can enter yesterday’s blogs, Kimberly Crawford, Donna Salazar, and Ken Oliver through January 18^th at 11:59 pm EST.

See the Spellbinders Blog for the complete schedule of designers and contest rules.

Thank you Spellbinders Paper Arts for sponsoring this contest!

Here are the new dies I introduced:

Sku Name EL-004 Imperial
MSRP: $9.99
PRODUCT SIZE:

5 X 7”

I am so excited to feature the new and innovative Spellbinders M-Bossabilities folders! These are unique reversible folders, with 2 separate yet coordinated embossing patterns for twice the designs and double the value! The folders simply flip over, so easy to use! There are 20 new folders, each with 2 designs, and they come in 2 sizes, 5 x 7” and 4 ¼ x 5 ½” for all your paper crafting needs!

Watch this introductory video!

See how to use the new Spellbinders M-Bossabilities in this video!

*Quick tip: I have a piece of cardstock labeled 1 and 2 on each side. I ran it through my Spellbinders M-Bossabilities folder to help me visualize what would emboss and what would deboss. I then marked my M-Bossablities with the coordinating number for quick placement while working on a project. This picture shows the embossed (raised) pattern on the cardstock. This is especially helpful when using double-sided patterned paper and trying to choose which pattern you would like on which side of paper.

*Here’s the opposite side of the pattern showing how it’s de-bossed. You can just store these with your M-Bossabilities for quick reference while using them.

Here is how to make the bones of the mini album. I cut my patterned paper from the #2 die template from the LF-168 Grand Large Labels.

Again, I lay my M-Bossabilities and my cheat sheet down to determine which pattern I am going to use.

I align my pattern paper face down onto the M-Bossabilities, close the folder, then place the Grand Raspberry Plate on top.

Run the sandwich through the Grand Calibur® Die cutting machine.

Take a sanding block and lightly sand the embossed pattern.

Repeat the whole process which another die cut to create a back page to the one already made.

Again, line up your patterned paper onto the M-Bossabilties, close the folder, and emboss by running through your Grand Calibur.

Sand to expose embossed pattern detail on patterned paper.

The finished products! You can now adhere these back to back to create a page for your mini album.

Here are all the pages in its entirety.

My Second project is a layout I used the EL-004 Imperial M-Bossabilities on.

I embossed the stars, and blue patterned paper strip with both sides of the folder.

By entering the Spellbinders Abilities and Beyond Blog Frenzy you agree to the Official Rules. For questions on the Spellbinders Abilities and Beyond Blog Frenzy, send an email to contestquestions@spellbinders.us; no entries will be accepted at this email address.

TO ENTER:

My blog is open for entries from 12:00 am, January 18^th, 2012, until 11:59 pm, January 19^th, 2012, EST.

1) Send your Blog Frenzy email entry to: Reveal21@spellbinders.us

2) The subject must be EL-004 Imperial.
3) Send!

Be sure to visit all the Designers on their Blog Frenzy dates!

Daily winners will receive an email within 24 hours of the blog frenzy’s closing. The winners will have 72 hours to reply to that email to claim prize. If a winner fails to respond within 72 hours, a new winner will be drawn.

To be eligible for the Grand Prize, enter each and every Blog Frenzy within its designated time period, send your entries from the email address for each entry. The Grand Prize has a retail value of over $1900 and includes the complete Spellbinders line of die cutting and embossing templates released at the 2012 Winter CHA show, and a Spellbinders Grand Calibur® Die Cutting and Embossing Machine!

I love your comments! Unfortunately your comment does not count as an entry, so be sure to enter as stated above, and then leave a comment!

Thank you for visiting and good luck!!

To receive information and announcements from Spellbinders, sign up for the Newsletter and subscribe to the Spellbinders Blog. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube and Pinterest. Thank You!

Spellbinders and M-Bossabilities are trademarks of Spellbinders Paper Arts, llc.

Grand Calibur is a registered trademark of Spellbinders Paper Arts, llc.

Mini Book:
Spellbinders Products:
GC-001 Grand Calibur Die Cutting Machine

LF-168 Grand Large Labels

EL-004 Imperial M-Bossabilities

S5-077 Labels Twenty Five

S4-136 Classic Hearts

S5-028 Nested Pennants

S5-043 Fleur De Lis Motifs

S4-116 Standard Circles Sm

My Minds Eye- Stella & Rose Hattie: “Boy” tapestry, “Family” pinstripe paper

My Minds Eye- Stella & Rose Hazel” “Fancy” lots of dots paper, “Mother” ledger paper

My Minds Eye- Stella & Rose Gertie “You & Me” numbers paper

My Minds Eye Lime Twist Life of the party “Charmed” Alpha

My Minds Eye- Holly Jolly “Holly Berries” paper

SCRAPBOOKING ADHESIVES by 3L 3D Foam Squares and EZ-Runner

Want2Scrap Bling

Glue Dots

Misc items:

Sanding block, twine

Mid Air Scrapbook page:

Spellbinders Products:

GC-001 Grand Calibur Die Cutting Machine

LF-161 Grand Labels One

S4-092 Stars Five

EL-004 Imperial M-Bossabilities

S5-077 Labels Twenty Five

Echo Park: Little Boy Denim/Lizard, Rock Star

WorldWin Treasures: White, Black card stock

SCRAPBOOKING ADHESIVES by 3L 3D Foam Squares and EZ-Runner

Buttons Galore & More

Misc Items:

sanding block, thread, adhesive letter stickers

Wishing you Well

2012-01-14T21:01:00.000-08:00

Today is the first time the WHOLE pit crew is posting together- Lots of goodness to see today!
For my card today, I used the January and February sets, along with the Avocado Type alpha to spell out my play on words, and the June 2011 set, Sunshine & Smiles.

I inked up the top half 'wishing you' from the wishing you sunshine and smiles sentiment from the June set. I finished it off with our avocado type set and spelled out 'well'. The hearts are from the January's set, and the paper pieced well is the new February set.

A few mistakes along the way provided me with the opportunity to embellish with buttons and add more hearts! ;)

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

-The Pit Crew-

I'm on a roll!

2012-01-12T21:33:00.000-08:00

I think this is the 3rd post for this week!

I am trying to get back into creating more often...and I get to *finally* use my new M-Bossibilities! Have you see the first few days of the Abillities and Beyond Blog Frenzy?!
I decided to play along with the Market Street Stamps challenge- the colors were speaking to me.

I used the leaf stamp from the 'follow your heart' set to make the pattern above the sentiment. The rest is pretty basic! ;)

enjoy!

Samantha Walker Creative team hop!

2012-01-11T08:36:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our Samantha Walker Creative Team Monthly Blog Hop! Are you ready for some inspiration? You should have arrived here from Cristal's blog, however if you didn't, you should hop onto Samantha's blog, as that is where all the pretty creations start, and you don't want to miss out!

So, this is my first EVER digital anything. I am not digitally handy, and I tend to struggle with anything more than checking my email... ;) This is from her A-Z Mega Pack school collection, and uses different elements. I still have a TON to learn, and am hoping to only improve, but for a first go, I am pretty happy with it!! Check out all her digital collections here at JessicaSprague.com.

Also-make sure to check out the prize Samantha is offering up as well!!

Head on over to Eva's blog next!!

Sending some love your way...

2012-01-09T21:51:00.000-08:00

long time no post- wrapping things up from the holidays around here!! And chemo. And life sometimes just gets a wee bit busy!! :)

I thought I would share this little treat bag which is in the current issue of PC Mag. (found here) It uses my trusty Spellbinders dies and Edgeabilities as well as Avocado Arts stamps.
It's a quick and easy way to dress up some store bought candies for the class, friend, or your kids teacher. (I would definitely change the sentiment then! ;)

enjoy!!

Be Mine!

2011-12-31T21:00:00.000-08:00

And on to the next holiday! Can you believe Valentine stuff is out already? Christmas clearance on one aisle and these adorable little candy conversation hearts on another!

Today were sharing projects from the new January AA set, Sweet Treat Sweetie. It doesn't show very well in the photo, but I stamped, cut out, and popped the red heart up on foam squares.

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

You're my cup of tea

2011-12-29T21:02:00.000-08:00

Happy almost New Years! I am soooo ready for 2012 and so ready to put this past year behind me! Although, I do have so very much to be thankful for, I am just ready to be done with all this cancer treatment stuff! :)
Today were sharing projects from the new January AA set, Sweet Treat Sweetie. I just love this big ol' cuppa tea-

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

Merry & Bright

2011-12-22T21:09:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS! I am so excited for Christmas this year- SO much to be thankful for!
I wanted to drop off some cookies with friends and found I ran out of cards- so I whipped up a few CAS ones to have on hand.

I stamped the candy from the November AA set along the bottom 2/3 of the card-The candy, circle, and wrapper are all separate components. I have been keeping my Christmas cards to minimal this year for easy mailing.
off to box up some cookies and hopefully make a few more cards!

enjoy!

2011-12-08T21:08:00.000-08:00

Long time no post! I have spent the last 2 weeks sick with a horrible cough AND sinus infection! I am starting to feel better, but now the holidays are sneaking up seriously FAST! I lost a lot of time being sick!!!
Onto my card-

This is one of my cards from the Card Creations Get Inspired issue- The inspiration photo was a stack of older vintagey styled postcards. I don't do vintage very well... so I did clean vintage! ;) This card uses several Unity stamps- Vintage Post Card, and the sentiments are from another kit (which I can't find on the website-sorry!) The dies are from Spellbinders- S4-168 Large Labels.

You can get the issue here. I love to see how everyone views the inspiration differently!!

enjoy!

Sending holiday cheer your way

2011-11-30T20:57:00.000-08:00

And were back with more Avocado Arts goodness today...quick post today, stilllllll fighting a cold!

For my card today I used the Brr and the Nerdy Snow Peeps and last months set Bring on the Holiday Cheer.
The snowmans hat and scarf and paper pieced using Echo Parks Seasons Greetings paper and popped up with foam squares. The ornament and sentiment are from last months set.

enjoy!

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

Avocado Arts time!

2011-11-29T21:00:00.000-08:00

and yes, it's IS cold outside! At least here it is. I have been freezing for *weeks* now- it's only dipping into the lower 40's, but I think that's about cold enough thank you very much.

My card today uses the snowflakes from the Brrr and Nerdy snow peeps to create the pattern and Spellbinders S4-340 Create A Flake Three to make the actual sparkly snowflake. I have a thing for making patterns with images like this, I love how you can line the snowflake up perfectly even...although I eyeballed mine and they aren't perfectly lined up- ;)

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

you warm my heart...

2011-11-27T20:30:00.000-08:00

Long time no post!
Thought I would pop in and share a quick Avocado Arts card using the Brrr! and the Nerdy Snow peeps set- I have a thing for snowmen, and I love how you can make this guy your own.
I stamped the snowflakes on the blue layer using the middle size snowflake, and the smaller one on the card front. Looking at it now, I should have stamped his hat separately and mounted it...

I am hearing noise of Christmas coming from the kids...whoa...SO not ready!

enjoy!

AA blog/FB page/website

Jingle bells

2011-11-17T01:15:00.000-08:00

This is definitely my most favorite time of year...I just love the holidays. Here's a fun treat holder I made that is in the current issue of Holiday Cards and More- It's a Chinese style take out box covered with some Echo Park paper, and also uses Spellbinders dies, Waltzingmouse Stamps, Artistic Wire, May Arts ribbon, and Kaiser gems. I attached to small 'jingle' bells to the artistic wire at the top.
Pop in some home made cookies or candies (or your store bought even ;) And you have a quick teacher, hostess, or co worker gift!

You can get a copy of this issue here.

enjoy!!

yea for holiday cheer!

2011-11-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

Sending holiday cheer! Its AA time and today we are sneaking in peeks of the new December set Brrr! and the Nerdy Snow Peeps- The sentiment is from November's set Bring on the Holiday cheer.

I stamped my snowman and then his hat. I cut the hat out and popped it up with foam squares onto his cute little head! In this set, the tie, eyes, mouth, carrot nose, and arms are all separate pieces so you can customize your snow guy!

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website. AA is on pinterest now as well- follow them!

Fall Sneak Peek Blog hop for Crafters Home Day One

2011-11-13T21:00:00.000-08:00

Join Spellbinders™ Paper Arts and Crafters Home as we celebrate a Fall Sneak Peek!

Spellbinders and participating stores in the Crafters Home Buying Group are excited to introduce three new die template sets sold exclusively through Crafters Home stores through January! You’ll have to wait until February to find these die template designs in non-member stores.

These new dies are in stock! Get yours now at a participating Crafters Home store! See the Spellbinders Blog for a list of participating stores.

Visit the Spellbinders Blog November 14 - 16 to see a new Spellbinders die template revealed each day! Visit designer blogs to enter the daily contests and see inspiring projects using the new releases. Comment on Designers Blogs and the Spellbinders Blog count as entries into daily drawings. Daily winners receive all three of the new designs!

Today's new die is S4-341 Wavy Rectangles

$24.99

1: 3/8 x ½”

2: 1 1/8 x 1 ¼”

3: 1 7/8 x 2 1/8”

4: 2 ¾ x 3 1/8”

5. 3 5/8 x 4 ¼”

For my card, I used the E8-001 Classic Scallop Edgeabilities for my card base and the S4-341 Wavy Rectangles for the focal image. I cut out the center of the patterned paper, and then cut and embossed a ivory piece of cardstock to place where the negative space was. I stamped the image, and colored in the stars with the atyou pen to add some sparkle. I adhered the patterned paper frame using Foam Squares to pop it up off the card.

SKU: E8-001

Visit these Designers Today!

Tonya Dirk - creativit-tonya.blogspot.com

Heidi Blankenship embellished-dreams.blogspot.com

Shanna Vineyard artmadewithheart.blogspot.com

AJ Otto thewillowgarden.blogspot.com

Judy Hayes judyhayesdesign.blogspot.com

Contest Details

Participants wishing to be included in the daily drawing for the Spellbinders Fall Sneak Peak contests adhere to all of the following rules.

The Fall Sneak Peek starts November 14, and ends November 16, 2011. It consists of three individual contests, one each day.
Each Fall Sneak Peek Bog will accept comments as entries from 12:00 am until 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time, on its scheduled day.
Each comment counts as one entry. One entry per person, per blog please.
One winner each day will receive the three new die templates available exclusively at Crafters Home stores.
All three winners will be announced on the Spellbinders Blog on November 17. The winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email address on the winning post to claim their prize. If a winner fails to respond within 48 hours, a new winner will be drawn.
By entering, you allow Spellbinders to publish your first name, city, state, and country of residence and a quote from you, on the Spellbinders Blog, website, and in promotional materials.
Spellbinders Designers, contractors, employees and immediate family members are not eligible to win.
The invitation to the Fall Sneak Peek Blog Hop is extended to all, we are happy to ship prizes worldwide.

Any questions regarding this contest should be sent to ContestQuestions@Spellbinders.us

Supplies:
Spellbinders S4-341 Wavy Rectangles; E8-001 Classic Scallop Edgeabilities
Echo Park Season's Greetings 6 x6 pad
Jillibean Soup Tinsel in a Tangle stamp from Unity
KaiserCraft Rhinestones
Copic Marker (atyou SpicaTwinkling like Star, 05 Lemon)
Black ink- Color box black by Clearsnap.
gold cord
SCRAPBOOK ADHESIVES by 3L 3D Foam Squares.

Just for you

2011-11-08T21:13:00.000-08:00

I am slightly delinquent in posting a few things lately... in the recent PC issue for November/December, which can be found here. I have a quick little gift tag in this issue using Spellbinders ides, Waltzingmouse stamps, and Want2Scrap pearls.

It's birthday week here in our house again, so I am working on wrapping presents, planning treat sacks, and looking forward to a party full of little *8* year olds!!
enjoy!!

autumn blessings

2011-10-31T21:00:00.000-07:00

For my card today, I reverted back to a fall theme. The trees around here are amazingly beautiful this time of year. And it's a GORGEOUS sunny day. Not quite ready for another Christmas card. yet. ;)
I used the leaf from the new November set paired with the sentiment from last months. Keeping it simple because that's how I roll!

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website. AA is on pinterest now as well- follow them!

Holiday hello

2011-10-29T20:51:00.000-07:00

We are back sharing more projects using the November set from Avocado Arts, Bring on the holiday cheer.

I used the circle that is meant to be an ornament for my background. I was going to try and free hand it like I normally do, but decided on mapping out a grid on my base first with a pencil. I measured squares about 1/2" across, and then stamped in every other one, alternating on the next line. Then erase your lines, and done. Fairly even circles! ;)

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website. AA is on pinterest now as well- follow them!

Gina K Designs inspirational hop day three

2011-10-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome, Welcome! Today I have a sharing a few cards from Gina K’s newest STAMP TV release. Be sure to catch all the other samples from the Design Team today – And make sure to check out all the new stamps on the All New page!!

I have been in serious need of many cards to send out lately, and having a stash on hand is always helpful! When I am making simpler cads, I tend to make several using a few different sentiments to keep on hand- Pleasant Plurals is perfect for making quick note cards!! I made a set of three-

All same design, same colors, same paper etc.-

Here's the set of three- This could even be a great last minute Christmas card set!

And my last card uses Tami's new set You go Girl. Fight like a girl has been my motto since finding out about my breast cancer, so I obviously decided on that sentiment for my card!!! I kept this one pretty simple as well, allowing to make several that I can use as thank you's!! :)

thanks for stopping by- Make sure to check out the rest of the team today as well!

Gina K Designs inspirational hop day two

2011-10-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

I LOVE the stamp tv kits- always such great kits!!
My first card uses the adorable penguin...I just adore this image!! So cute!
And the sentiment was masked off each time to use vertically instead of horizontally. I have a thing for vertical sentiments, and you don't see them very often...so there's my answer for that! ;)

This image may be tied with the penguin for favorite...Another iconic Christmas image!! I used shimmery white cardstock, my nestabilities, some bling, and silver string for this one. Simple but just enough! Sorry about the shadow from the string-I procrastinated with my photos and it ended up being too dark!!

thanks for stopping by- Make sure to check out the rest of the team today as well!

Gina K Designs inspirational hop day one

2011-10-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome!

It's been a LONG while since being able to participate in release!!

Today I have some cards to share from Gina K’s newest release. Be sure to catch all the other samples from the Design Team today – And make sure to check out all the new stamps on the All New page!!

First up is a new set by Theresa called Strength and Hope- I love the butterfly in this set with the ribbon in the middle- it's full of great sentiments as well.

Another quick one using the same set, (and some super fun washi tape) I like having quick and easy note cards around to send out, especially with so many friends lending us helping hands right now!!

Last up is Melanie's Basket Additions. This fall scene was calling to me, so I paired it up with some new basic grey. I love fall colors!

thanks for stopping by- Make sure to check out the rest of the team today as well!

Gina K
Melanie Muenchinger illustrator Basket Additions
Theresa Momber illustrator Strength and Hope (will be donating all my proceeds from Strength and Hope, for the first month of sales, to cancer research.)
AJ Otto
Michelle Woerner
Sharon Harnist
Suzanne Dean
Tina Gilliland
Vicki Dutcher
Carolina Buchting
Cathy Tidwell
Deb Felts
Donna Baker
Emily Giovanni
Giovana Smith
Janice Whiting
Jimmi Mayo
Lee Murphy

You're Invited- Gina K release party

2011-10-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to extend an invitation to Gina K. Designs October Release Party. We have a fun evening planned for you - chatting, prizes, challenges, stamp sets reveal, design team shares, and most importantly, at the end of the party you will be able to go shopping!

If you came from Stamp TV, you're at the right place. If not make sure to head over to StampTV where you will find a list of all those participating in today's hop.

Here's a photo of one of the cards I will be sharing at the party.

I am LOVING all the new stamp sets out there creating awareness and for making great cards to send out to those battling it! I am using Theresa's new set Strength and Hope, who is also donating all her proceeds for the first month of sales.

Hope to see you at the party, here are all the details:

When: Today, Thursday, October 20
Where: StampTV Release Party Forum
Time: 7 PM to 9 PM (CST)

Make sure to head over to Carolina's blog next!!

more Ho Ho's and Holiday Blessings!

2011-10-14T21:03:00.000-07:00

Back again with more AA goodness to share using the Ho Ho's and Holiday Blessings set!!

I love the leaves in this months set, and how you can stamp the "veins" a separate color than the outside- I figured I would leave these clean and less embellished to allow for mailing. School pictures or soccer pictures or something always seems to come out and need to be mailed off to each family member this time of year!

And this set also has a coordinating digital cutting file to use it with-check it out here.

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

swimming for Katie Renz

2011-10-09T21:12:00.000-07:00

Welcome!! I am going to try and keep the commentary to a minimum so you can get on to the next blog and then DONATE! :)
I can honestly say I have NO CLUE of what Katies dealing with and facing while still trying to be a mom to the three children and a wife. I would shrivel into a ball and go into the fetal position in her shoes. She is SO strong and handling the disease like nobody's business, even reaching out to me to offer her support and lend an ear.
I live just a few short hours away from Katie, but it took a trip to Anaheim to run into her and meet her for the first time...
My heart aches for her family, I wish I could do MORE.

"From October 10-12 some of the best stampers are joining together to support and encourage our friend and fellow stamper, Katie Renz, who is currently battling inoperable gastric cancer. If you're not familiar with her, Katie’s cancer story started just before Christmas last year. This young, beautiful, healthy, vibrant mother of 3 with her infectious smile was suddenly diagnosed with an inoperable cancer, virtually overnight. A few tummy aches and then stage 4 gastric cancer. Her first post about it is here. The idea of “Swimming for Katie” came from her recent post here.

This exclusive stamp used in my sample, designed by Becky Oehlers is available as a clear stamp, as well as a digis or a dig and SVG cut file. 100% of the profits go to Katie's fund to help her and her young family. Her husband Kevin and her three young children need our help and support. In addition to the Keep Swimming Octopus, Marianne Walker and True =D Doodle Designs both also donated digis that are for sale. Direct donations are also being accepted. Information central is HERE. This is a permanent page that will stay active at i {heart} papers with current information and the full 3 day blog hop listing, as well as the donation button.

on to my card....

I am keeping my card clean and simple, focusing on the fabulous image created by Becky. Details below on how you can get this image and in which format-
I think how this amazing community is coming together to help is just SO inspirational and completely overwhelming. I am certain Katie feels the arms of so many embracing her.

Here are all the items available for sale.

Keep Swimming Octopus
Peachy Clear stamp
$5.50 with free shipping

Keep Swimming Octopus DIGIstamp
$3.00 with instant download

Keep Swimming Octopus DIGIstamp with SVG cut file
$3.50 with instant download

Keep Swimming Mermaid DIGIstamp
$3.50 with instant download

Keep Swimming Ribbon Fish DIGIstamp and DIGIpapers
$5.00 with instant download

I hope you will join me in supporting Katie through a purchase or donation. The following is a list of everyone who has projects posted today. I hope you will be inspired by them and moved to purchase or donate. If you would like to send Katie a card, her mailing address is:
Katie Renz
PO Box 5913
Bellingham, WA 98227-5913

Here is a COMPLETE list of ALL the peeps joining in on today's fundraiser- make sure to check back both Tuesday and Wednesday as well for more participants!!

AJ Otto *you are here*

Beate

Carolyn Mustopa

Dawn Burnworth

Deb Felts

Gretchen Belknap

Heather Jensen

Jen del Muro

Julie Ranae

Kate - i {heart} papers

Kendra Wietstock

Lisa Johnson

Loretta Lock

Lori Tecler

Lynn Mercurio

Marianne Walker

Michele Gross

Stacy aka Twinshappy

Tracy Schultz

Debbie Olson

Cindy Lawrence

Cindy Haffner

Julie Koerber

Christine Okken

Tammy Hershberger

Danielle Kennedy

Barbara Anders

Makiko Jones

Ashley N Newell

Shannan Teubner

Taylor Usry

Jen Tapler

Jenn Balcer

Jenny Chesnick

Jess Larsen

Jessica Knutsen

Jimmi Mayo

Joan Bardee

Joan Ervin

Julia Aston

Julie Day

Julie Ebersole

thanks so very much!

12 Days of Christmas Blog hop WInner

2011-10-03T09:09:00.000-07:00

#38
shoot me an email (off to your right) and we will get this issue right out to you!!!

Rachel W K said...: what a fantastically adorable santa suit! I wish that size would fit me! lol-rachel w krwkrafts.blogspot.com

congrats to you Rachel!!!!

I can't wait to get this issue in my hot little hands and go over every page!!

two times in a row!!

2011-09-30T21:46:00.000-07:00

Well, like we need any excuse to make cards....Happy World Card Making Day!! :)
I am actually not going to be able to craft any today, (soccer tourney- obviously they don't check the WCMD calendar first! ;) but did a few yesterday in preparation!

Still in that early Christmas mode- I love this Santa outfit from the new Ho Ho's and Holiday Blessings!! I know I used it yesterday as well...but it's just so fun! I used the new E8-003 Classic Triple Scallop & the E8-001 Classic Scallop Edgeabilities on the bottom of the card and some S4-114 Standard Circles LG for the clothes.

And here's another one from a previous months set-(Just because it's WCMD, and I hadn't shared it yet! ;) I believe this is the July set ZipNBy. It also uses the S4-114 Standard Circles LG, and the S4-347 Labels Twenty Three.

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

Paper Crafts magazine Presents: 12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop

2011-09-30T03:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Paper Crafts Magazine 12 days of Christmas Blog hop!

You can order a copy of this issue HERE!!

This issue is one of my favorite issues they put out. I love all the fun gift ideas, and the amazing cards and tags. It's full of inspiration that can be used year round. The most challenging part of working on this call for me is the holiday decor. I always struggle with decor, especially since my style is usually pretty clean and simple. I love quick and easy cards for the holidays since they are still handmade, but easily mass produced. ;)

For my card today, I used Basic Grey's Nordic Holiday line, Spellbinders Labels Twenty Two, and Avocado Arts new October set Ho Ho's and Holiday Blessings.

1- Round corners or white card base and green patterned paper. Adhere green layer to card front.

2 - Cut strips from patterned paper and adhere to card front.

3 - Die cut and emboss red frame, and white layer using Spellbinders die templates.

4 - Stamp Santa coat image, color in and attach to card front with foam squares.

5 - Stamp sentiment and adhere rhinestones.

Make sure to check out the rest of the designers blogs for more inspiration!!

And for a chance to win THIS PRIZE PACK, leave a comment on the Paper Crafts Connection Blog.

And, for a chance to win a copy of your own of Holiday Cards & More Vol 6, leave a comment here by 2 am EST Sunday October 2.

Tis' the season...

2011-09-29T21:00:00.000-07:00

wow. With all the crud I've been dealing with- the holiday countdown snuck up some how! :) yikes.
Halloween...one child is set...still need to get the other to commit to a costume....There is a very good chance that Christmas cards are late or simply don't happen this year...My daughters birthday is in a month...Pretty sure I can't skip that! ;) Where does the time go!??

In the meantime- here's some Avocado Arts fun- love this wreath!! It's separate from the leaves and the berries- so you can make each layer colored as you like!! This is the new October set Ho Ho's and Holiday Blessings.

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

a wee bit out of season...

2011-09-22T21:01:00.000-07:00

So, I am definitely our of practice at this blogging thing! I know it's fall...and I should be sharing my typical beloved Halloween projects or even something fall-like...but I simply haven't been able to craft yet since my last surgery-
So, you get one of my Paper Crafts pub from the Stamp It Cards Vol 8. I think this may be my favorite of the several in there!

The card is made using the Grand Nestabilities die templates from Spellbinders and Unity Stamps. The paper is Bella BLVD I think...

Once I regain some better use of my arm I may get some more projects made over the next week!

My wish for you

2011-09-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

So- I have received an ABUNDANCE of cards and treats from so many people, I figured I better start getting busy on thank you's! The 'My wish for you' set isn't a breast cancer set, but clearly, you can make it work for whatever your need is. The set is meant to be used for all things-and a portion of sales will go to a charity each month.
I made a set of four, and got tired...that's the new norm for now I guess! I made a few with twine bows, and some with just knots-

I alternated with adhering the kraft layer flat and popping it up- Easy mailing with the flat ones!! I can only handle so many of one design, so I will be using the same colors and a new layout for the next batch! Now, off to write inside and send off!!

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

Thankful for you-

2011-08-31T20:55:00.000-07:00

It's September!
Time for another Avocado Arts project- And the first day of school for us here!!

I used the new September set Thankful For You today. Love those chevrons, keeping up with my promised of using and abusing them! I stamped the basket and masked it off to stamp the apples. Added a little bit of glossy accents to make them shiny, and it's the perfect little card for the first day of school!

Check back to the AA blog tomorrow- we have a GUEST!!!

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

Avocado Arts- Happy Halloween

2011-08-29T20:55:00.000-07:00

Today all the pit crew is sharing projects using the September Avocado Arts set. I just LOVE those chevron stripes- here I stamped the thin one back to back to make these fun square strips. I love images that can be used in various ways!
The spider, has fabulous eyelashes!! You can stamp eyeballs or eyelashes- so fun, even for a non spider person like myself!
I made this somewhat clean, allowing for easy mailing, and mass producing should time allow!!

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

sending some love your way...

2011-08-14T20:51:00.000-07:00

Today all the pit crew is sharing projects using the August Avocado Arts set and sneaks from the September set. I just *love* that little car image from the August set ZipNBy!
Those fabulous chevron stripes on the red card base are from the new September set- There is a thicker one and a thinner one- and they will be USED and ABUSED! I have already been playing around with them and love all the options they offer for backgrounds! The rest of the card is all from ZipNBy set.

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

I just want to say thank you for the many supportive emails and comments while I am dealing with this not so great issue! I plan on getting through it and back to normal life shortly after. :) It definitely puts things into perspective- and I think at first I thought I would just give up crafting all together, but I enjoy creating, and look forward to the times when I will be able to now. It'll just be on a MUCH smaller scale than now! After all, I am already in need of many MANY thank you's!

praying for you

2011-08-10T21:04:00.000-07:00

Back again with a card recently published in Paper Crafts Card Ideas for Paper Crafters. I still haven't crafted in this last week, I have been going from doctor appt's to doctors appt's and have been exhausted and mojo less! I appreciate everyone's comments and support- I will beat this! :) Sorry- I won't bore you with random health care visits and chit chat, I am sure that's the LAST thing you come here to read!!

If you haven't had a chance to see this issue yet- it just came out and you can order it HERE.

it's a great issue, I still see something new each time I go through it-

Stamps are from Gina K, dies- Spellbinders, and paper is MME (I think ;)
enjoy!!

Gina K Designs inspirational hop day three and an announcement

2011-08-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome!

Today I have a card to share from Gina K’s newest release. Be sure to catch all the other samples from the Design Team today – And make sure to check out all the new stamps on the All New page!!

My first card uses the new Free with Three set- thank you's are quickly becoming a necessity in my house! Quick clean and simple card here using the Postage Stamp die. The flowers are stamped in kraft ink, and a few pearls to finish it off-

This next card uses Tami's new set Gnome One like You. I pulled out the copics for this one- The green piece across uses the new Spellbinders Edgeabilities. That "Hey Gnomie" sentiment is so fun!

thanks for stopping by- Make sure to check out the rest of the team today as well!

Gina K
Tami Mayberry - Illustrator Gnome One Like You
Jimmi Mayo
Lee Murphy
Melanie Muenchinger
Sharon Harnist
Theresa Momber
Tina Gilliland
Vicki Dutcher
AJ Otto
Carolina Buchting
Cathy Tidwell
Deb Felts
Donna Baker
Emily Giovanni
Giovana Smith
Jennie Harper

And, finally- this will be my last hop with the team for a while- I have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer and will be taking some time to handle it. I don't plan on giving up paper and ink and all that goes with it though! I will need some creative therapy time, I will share stuff when I can and craft when my schedule allows for it, which doesn't seem to be in the cards just yet- which seems to be obvious with the super simple cards this week!!

thanks for being a FABULOUS supporter
I look forward to being healthy and playing full time again SOON

Gina K Designs inspirational hop day two

2011-08-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome!

Today I have two cards to share from Gina K’s newest release. Be sure to catch all the other samples from the Design Team today – And make sure to check out all the new stamps on the All New page!!

First up is a card using the new set Basket Buddies by Melanie- I am in a definite clean mode lately- and decided on simply stamping the little dog silhouette image all over the card. I stamped the sentiment and one dog in a darker shade of brown. I know a little girl here who will love this!

And next is a card using the new set Heartfelt by Theresa. I went with a brighter summer color theme here instead of using the fall palette it is geared towards- My sons birthday was a week ago and he is still writing out thank you notes...This set works for any season! I love those little wheat like images!

thanks for stopping by!!
Make sure to check out the rest of the team today as well!!

Gina K
Melanie Muenchinger - Illustrator Basket Buddies
Theresa Momber - Illustrator Heartfelt
Giovana Smith
Janice Whiting
Jennie Harper
Lee Murphy
Michelle Woerner
Sharon Harnist
Suzanne Dean
Tina Gilliland
Vicki Dutcher
AJ Otto
Carolina Buchting
Cathy Tidwell
Deb Felts
Donna Baker
Emily Giovanni

Gina K Designs inspirational hop day one

2011-08-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome!

For my card-I used some Jillibean lined paper to paper piece my pencil holder which is stamped on to a Labels eighteen die. I tied some red twine around the patterned paper, stamped the sentiment and done! I love when cards come together quickly- I will be making a few of these for the upcoming year!! Always good to have some on hand!

thanks for stopping by!!
Make sure to check out the rest of the team today as well!!

Gina K Designs Invitational Hop-

2011-08-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to extend an invitation to Gina K. Designs August Release Party. We have a fun evening planned for you - chatting, prizes, challenges, stamp sets reveal, design team shares, and most importantly, at the end of the party you will be able to go shopping!

If you came from Gina's blog, you're at the right place. If not make sure to head over to StampTV where you will find a list of all those participating in today's hop.

Here's a photo of one of the cards I will be sharing at the party.

I love stamping my own backgrounds when I can't find the right patterned paper- (I also LOVE patterned paper! ;) I stamped the camera randomly onto the card front is the same color ink. I stamped the focal image onto a Standard Circles LG. I love leaving images partially colored in- So I just added the red to the hearts.

Hope to see you at the party, here are all the details:

When: Today, Tuesday, August 2
Where: StampTV Release Party Forum
Time: 7 PM to 9 PM (CST)

Head on over to Carolina's blog to see what card she's sharing with you today and see you back here on tomorrow for the beginning of our three day Inspiration Blog Hop series for August!

I heart U

2011-07-31T20:54:00.000-07:00

It's that time again- We are sharing new August Avocado Arts set ZipNBy today! I love how this set is so versatile- add a few Spellbinders™ hearts and make some Valentines with it!

I love Kraft and red together- I stamped the stripes several different times in various angles and ramdomly stamped the hearts as well. The paper is Lily Bee and the rhinestones are Want2Scrap.

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA Blog/FB page/website.

Becky Oehlers
Julia Stainton
Kimberly Crawford *is taking the day off*
Latisha Yoast

zipnby!

2011-07-29T20:41:00.000-07:00

Quick fly by post- it's the 30th and we are sharing new August Avocado Arts set ZipNBy.

Real simple card today- been a crazy whirlwind week here and I am not quite sure how I got through it!

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

peas-love-happiness

2011-07-26T22:07:00.000-07:00

Anyone having a baby? or twins? I don't know anyone expecting- but I was just drawn to this image! It's so adorable! Another one for the fun spark challenge over at Paper Smooches.

This time I used one of the sketches and opted to not use the colors. The paper is from the echo park summer days, and the dies are of course Spellbinders™.

off to another non summer day in the PNW. We better get some serious Indian summer love for the lack of summer!!!
enjoy!

we must ketchup

2011-07-19T22:00:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to play in more challenges out there, and am simply overwhelmed with the amount to choose from! I saw the Paper Smooches Sparks challenge and thought it was a great opportunity to use these adorable images!

For this card I used the color combo of red, fawn, black, and kiwi. I couldn't find anything "fawn" in color, so the burlap is playing that role today. The tomato is paper pieced using Lime Twist "Fly A Kite" from MME.

off to enjoy yet another day of NON summer weather here in the PNW with the kids.
enjoy!

More Avocado Arts goodness

2011-07-17T21:57:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday!! It's officially birthday week in our house- My son will be TWELVE this Saturday! The weather has been M I S E R A B L E here in the PNW, so I am hoping it warms up again for this weekend for him to enjoy some beach time!

enough chatter - onto the card. This is the July set Hello Friend from Avocado Arts. I adore that phone line image, so cute! :)

I made my card using the new LF-133 Grand Scalloped Rectangles Grand Nestabilities, and used the LF-132 Grand Rectangles Grand Nestabilities for the main inage. I stamped the phone line, and then colored the hearts and grass in with Spica Atyou pens.

Make sure to also check out the AA blog/FB page/website.

Back to birthday planning- enjoy! :)

New Avocado Arts August set sneak peeks!

2011-07-14T21:00:00.000-07:00

Today we are sharing sneak peek images of the August Avocado Arts set ZipNBy and July's set Hello Friend.

For my card, I stamped the hearts on the right side from the Hello Friend set, and the lines on the card base are also from the July set. The hot air balloon and sentiment are from the new August set.
The edgeabilties die is from the E8-002 Classic Bracket and the patterned paper is from Cosmo.

Make sure to check out the rest of the teams projects today, and the AA blog/FB page/website.

Samantha Walker Creative team hop- New Stamps!

2011-07-12T21:55:00.000-07:00

Welcome to another edition of the Samantha Walker Creative Team monthly hop! Today we are using some new Unity Stamp Company stamps by Samantha Walker. For my cards I used stamps from the Orchard Harvest and Blossom Stackers sets.

For the first card, I stamped the scalloped image from the Blossom Stackers set onto the Creative Imaginations patterned paper. I used the new S4-351 Spiral Blossom One with some of Samantha's fabric (from Riley & Blake) and stamped the center using a blossom die from the Orchard Harvest set.

Here, I used the same scalloped blossom image and simply stamped a partial background with it. I used a different sentiment and stamped another blossom image over the 'you'. Pretty quick and simple card- you could easily change up the colors and sentiment for any occasion!

Also- Make sure to check out the Spellbinders Blog Frenzy event- Lesley Langdon is showcasing Samantha Walkers new SPELLBINDERS dies!!!!

Make sure to head on over to Samantha's blog- I believe there is a Creative Imaginations Sticker assortment giveaway! ;)

Next make your way over to the Crystal's Blog!!

Sending Smiles- using the NEW EDGEABILITIES

2011-07-11T21:43:00.000-07:00

Now that the secrets out of the bag about the new Edgeabilties, I am going to share a few quick photos on how I used them to make this Avocado Arts card- This is one of the most common ways to use the new die templates, as a simple decorative edge.

If you haven't seen the Edgeabilties yet, check out the video here.

(If the embedded video is not showing up for you, HERE is a link on YouTube.)

Each set of Edgeabilities comes with an Edger, and 2 Decorative inserts. You can mix and match Edgers and Decorative inserts between sets. I have here the Edger (on the right) from the E8-003 Classic Triple Scallop Edgeabilities set, and the Decorative insert (on the left) from the E8-001 Classic Scallop.

You can see how long each one is next to a standard A2 size card. (My Base plate is oriented in a portrait position in this photo)

Here I am cutting through both layers of the card. I lay my edgeabilities lengthwise on my base plate. (They will also fit across just as easily.) I am going to cut the bottom edge of my card- place it down and I tape it with removable tape to hold in place.
I am also running the rectangle through at the same time-(I try to run several die templates at once, allowing me a few extra die cuts to have ready to go.)
You could also easily do a set of edgeabilities on each end of your base plate and run two cards through at once.

Here you can see a closer image of trying to line up the ends of the card equally so that they are even, and not half scalloped on one side, and a full scallop on the other. (This is the reason I tape it down)

Super easy and tons of options too- you can extend them as well for layouts, or just emboss with them, or stack layers and layers of them like ruffles onto a card.

Stamps- Hello Friend, Avocado Arts
Spellbinders E8-003 Classic Triple Scallop & E8-001 Classic Scallop Edgeabilties, Classic Rectangles LG
My Minds Eye paper, rhinestones

The Willow Garden

Gina K Designs Release party hop

thank you

and it's underway-

Spellbinders Abilities and Beyond Blog Frenzy Day 7

Wishing you Well

I'm on a roll!

Samantha Walker Creative team hop!

Sending some love your way...

Be Mine!

You're my cup of tea

Merry & Bright

Sending holiday cheer your way

Avocado Arts time!

you warm my heart...

Jingle bells

yea for holiday cheer!

Fall Sneak Peek Blog hop for Crafters Home Day One

Just for you

autumn blessings

Holiday hello

Gina K Designs inspirational hop day three

Gina K Designs inspirational hop day two

Gina K Designs inspirational hop day one

You're Invited- Gina K release party

more Ho Ho's and Holiday Blessings!

swimming for Katie Renz

12 Days of Christmas Blog hop WInner

two times in a row!!

Paper Crafts magazine Presents: 12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop

Tis' the season...

a wee bit out of season...

My wish for you

Thankful for you-

Avocado Arts- Happy Halloween

sending some love your way...

praying for you

Gina K Designs inspirational hop day three and an announcement

Gina K Designs inspirational hop day two

Gina K Designs inspirational hop day one

Gina K Designs Invitational Hop-

I heart U

zipnby!

peas-love-happiness

we must ketchup

More Avocado Arts goodness

New Avocado Arts August set sneak peeks!

more Spellbinders Edgeabiltities how to videos-

Samantha Walker Creative team hop- New Stamps!

Sending Smiles- using the NEW EDGEABILITIES