November Classes

The Handmade Holiday Gifts class is one of my most popular classes of the year.  Participants will make the 5 gifts you see below.  I'll be sharing more information about these projects in future blog posts in case you are unable to attend.  This class is filling fast, so register today to save your spot.

WHEN:  Saturday, November 14th

TIME:  9am--noon

WHERE:  The Stamp Shack, 120 S. Buckeye Street, Kokomo, IN

COST:  $30 per person

****Must register with payment by November 7th****

 

 

There are still 2 Stamp-a-Stack classes featuring Christmas cards and this one is sure to be a lot of fun.  Participants will make 2 each of the cards you see below. 

WHEN:  Friday, November 20th

TIME:  7pm--9pm

WHERE:  The Stamp Shack, 120 S. Buckeye Street, Kokomo, IN  46902

COST: $20 per person

 

Customers that are unable to attend may purchase a class kit which includes the five cards shown plus electronic instructions for making the cards.  Kits must be ordered by November 20th and will ship the Monday after the class.

And this year, I will be offering a Christmas Card Cutting service to my customers.  Purchase stamps, ink, and paper from me to make your Holiday cards and I will cut your card stock for you......no limit on the number of cards.....and at no charge to you.  An additional shipping fee may apply, but you'll only pay actual shipping charges from me to you.

I'll be sharing some holiday card ideas with you in the coming weeks.  You can pick one of my designs or we can collaborate and create a unique, one-of-a-kind card for your friends & family.

Feel free to contact me for more information at melissa42@msn.com

A New Look

I didn't listen to my own warning and spent the whole day playing with My Digital Studio.  The dishes are piled high in the sink, the laundry hasn't been touched, and my project for today did not get finished.  However, I did squeeze in some new blog graphics and I'm sure you've noticed the change.  I can't wait to share the next blog banner with you....it is cool!

Since my project is incomplete, I'm going to bring back an oldie but goodie.  This is my pumpkin poop project from last year.  I hope you like it!

I am attaching two files here, so that you can easily make your own poop.  The first is the template to make the box, and the second is a sheet of the pumpkin poop poems that will fit perfectly inside your box.

Download mini_pizza_box_template.pdf

Download pumpkin_poop_poem.pdf

 

This is a close-up of the inside of the box.  I bought the small packages of candy corn at Wal-Mart.

The box is made from Basic Black cardstock and measures about 2-1/2" square.  I layered 2-1/4" squares of Ghostly Greetings DSP on the lid.

The pumpkins and the pumpkin faces were created with Sizzix dies and the Big Shot.  I added the wiggly eyes for fun.

These boxes would make a great school treat for your children and they are very easy to create.

Well, that is it for Halloween week.  My blog will soon be in full swing for the Holidays.  I've got tons of projects and card ideas to share with you.  Be sure to subscribe to the blog using the sign up box on the left so you don't miss any of the updates.

And here is my final My Digital Studio addition to the blog......a new signature!

Going Digital

WARNING:  My Digital Studio may cause you to ignore your family, responsibilities, and personal hygiene. 

Perhaps that warning is a little harsh, but I would seriously like to stay in my pajamas for a weekend and do nothing but play around with this program.  I have YEARS & YEARS of digital photos stored on my computers that have never seen the light of day.  My digital studio is helping me bring them out for everyone to see. 

Stampin' UP! has already released a few additional downloads for purchase on the website, including a Pumpkin Patch stamp brush set.  I loved this stamp set from the Holiday Mini catalog, but I had already spent too much and one more set was not in the budget.  However, I was able to load it onto MDS for just $5.95.  They also have the Cast-a-Spell DSP, which from my previous postings this week, you can probably tell that I like this paper.  Now I can use both anytime!

And did you know that you can purchase the downloads to use with your existing software, such as photoshop?  Check out my websitefor all the downloads available.

So, here is what I created with my new downloads....

 
  
These pages took me less than one hour to complete, and get this.......my stamp area isn't a mess!!!  Now, I think that is a great bonus.

The top page I made from scratch and the bottom page was based on a template.  I just had to change the colors and DSP, then add the pumpkin stamp and journaling.  So simple!

I have one more Halloween project to share with you this week and it's a goodie.  Check back tomorrow for your final treat!

Twick or Tweet

Here is a quick & easy card for Halloween.  I made almost 100 of these for the Stampin' Up! regional in Cincinnati last month, so I should know, right?

The card base is Basic Black cardstock with an Old Olive layer.  I used a thin strip of the Cast-a-Spell DSP layered onto Basic Black and tied with Old Olive grosgrain ribbon at the bottom of the card.

The image was stamped with Basic Black ink onto Whisper White cardstock.  I only colored in the dog and used a Creamy Caramel marker.  The "bite" was created with the scallop oval punch.

The Twick or Tweet stamp set is so cute and can be ordered anytime on my Stampin' Up! website.  Here is a look at all the images included in this set.

I hope you are enjoying Halloween week.  Tomorrow, I'll be sharing a scrapbook layout made with My Digital Studio.  You are going to be amazed at what that program can do.....trust me!

 

 

My Digital Studio Card

Here is the first card that I made with the new My Digital Studio program.  I'm currently working on the certification program and playing around with the program to learn as much as I can.  There is definitely a bit of a learning curve with this program, but I do find it more user-friendly than Photoshop.

I think the best thing about this program is that is comes with nearly 60 stamp sets pre-loaded, as well as lots of designer paper, embellishments, and more.  I would not have been able to make this card as shown with the materials I have on hand---I don't own this stamp set and I definitely don't "sew".

My Digital Studio is available on my Stampin' Up! website for $79.95.  I will be offering training classes soon and I'll keep you posted on those.

Tomorrow, I'll be featuring a hand-stamped card using the adorable Twick or Tweet stamp set.

Boo Blocks

Try saying that five times fast!  This is my favorite project for this year.  I love Halloween decor and this set of blocks is going to be a perfect addition to my work area.

 You'll find a set of 4 Decor Elements Blocks in the Holiday Mini Catalog for just $9.95.  The blocks are smooth MDF, natural wood, 3" blocks which require no sanding.

I decided to paint the blocks with white acrylic paint.  It took 3-4 coats of paint to achieve the look that I wanted.  I cut my Night & Day designer series paper into 3" squares and adhered it to the blocks with Modge Podge.

The cirlces and letters were die cut using the Big Shot, Circles # 2 die, and the Serif Essentials Alphabet dies.  The ghost image is from the Twick or Tweet stamp set, also in the Holiday Mini Catalog. 

And to tie it all together, I used the 1-1/4" Striped Pumpkin Pie ribbon.  The blocks can be displayed side-by-side, or if you have limited space, you can stack them.

But wait.....my blocks have a little secret.  If you flip them over, you'll see that I have decorated the other side for Christmas!  I used the Christmas Cocoa Specialty paper and the Holiday Mix Decor Elements.  The snowflakes were punched from cardstock and I added rhinestones to the center of each flake.  (Tip:  pry apart a rhinestone brad from the back to release a flat rhinestone.  Adhere to your project with a mini glue dot)

 

The Holiday Mix Decor Elements come in 4 colors:  Black, Chocolate, Real Red, and White.  This is only the first project I'll be sharing with you that features this item.  Be sure to add it to your next order.  For only $9.95, you'll be able to create many adorable holiday projects.

Back to Halloween tomorrow with a project from My Digital Studio.

 

From the Crypt

This is one of the cards we made at Ghouls Night Out.  It features the From the Crypt stamp set......this is one of those sets that grows on you with time. 

Scary, edgy, and artistic? All in one stamp set? Hard to believe, but it's true.I'm not really into skulls, but if you take a close look at this image, you'll see a cute little pumpkin, ghost, and flying bats. 

Stamp Sets:  From the Crypt, Teeny Tiny Wishes

Ink:  Basic Gray, Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie

Paper:  Basic Gray, Whisper White, Basic Black, Cast-a-Spell DSP, Groom Specialty Paper

Accessories:  Horizontal Slot Punch, Pumpkin Pie and Basic Black Grosgrain ribbon, sponge daubers

 

	It's not too late to order supplies for Halloween treats & cards.  You can shop now on my Stampin' Up! website.  I'll be back tomorrow with one of my favorite projects for Halloween.  It is Bootiful!

My Spooktacular Return to Blogging

I just checked and my last post was dated September 21st.  I would say that is a good indication of how hectic EVERYTHING has been the past few weeks.  I'll spare you the details, but share some new Spooky goodies with you this week.

My first Halloween project for you is a mini scrapbook album that we did at Scrapbook Club this month.  It features the From the Crypt stamp set and Cast-a-Spell DSP.  There are lots of pull-outs and hiding places for pictures & journaling.

SUPPLIES

Stamp Set:  From the Crypt

Ink Pads:  Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie

Paper:  Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive, Perfect Plum, Cast-a-Spell DSP

Big Shot Dies:  Circles #2, Scallop Circle #2, Serif Essentials Alphabet

Punches:  Scallop Edge, 1-1/4” circle, 1-3/8” circle, Scallop Circle, Horizontal Slot, ½” cicle

Accessories:  Whisper White Small Open-End Envelopes, Antique Brass Build-a-Brad, Pumpkin Pie 1-1/4” Striped Grosgrain Ribbon, Mat Pack, Paper-Piercing Tool, White Gel Pen, Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots, SNAIL or Sticky Strip

The tutorial for this project is available in PDF form for $5.  The tutorial includes lots of pictures, step-by-step instructions, and card stock measurements.  Please use the Paypal link below and you'll receive your tutorial within 24 hours by email.

I do have a limited number of kits available for $20 (includes shipping).  You will need to have the stamp set, ink pads, adhesives, and punches to complete the project.  If you don't have a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, I would be happy to help you order the necessary supplies.  The paper has been pre-cut and scored, plus you'll receive all of the die-cuts and ribbon in your kit, along with the PDF tutorial.  Because these kits are extremely limited, email me at melissa42@msn.com if you would like one and I will send you a Paypal invoice.

Tomorrow, I'll be sharing a card made with this same stamp set.  Stay tuned!

September Scrapbook Club Layout

Here is a great scrapbook layout for the Fall season.  We made this at out monthly scrapbook club meeting.  This layout was designed by my very talented downline, Tiffany Cline.

 

 

Supplies

• Stamp Set:  Falling Leaves


• Ink:  More Mustard, Elegant Eggplant, Soft Suede


• Paper:  Whisper White, More Mustard, Ruby Red, Elegant Eggplant, Soft Suede, Autumn Traditions DSP


• Accessories:  Basic Small Grommets, Silver Brads, Circle Designer Brads, Orchard Ribbon Originals, Twill Tape, Big Shot, Billboard Die, Leaves #2 Die

Here are a few close-ups of the fun details:

 

Happy Stampin'

Fall Occasions Stamp-a-Stack

This is one of the cards that we'll be making at the Fall Occasions Stamp-a-Stack this weekend.  Class participants will be making 10 cards, 2 each of 5 different designs.

The card above features the Autumn Splendor stamp set from the Holiday Mini Catalog.  I already have several leaf and/or tree stamp sets, but this one is definitely becoming one of my favorites!

I randomly stamped the leaves in Chocolate Chip, Really Rust, and More Mustard on the top 2/3 of Very Vanilla card stock.  I punched the circle out with the 1-3/4" circle punch, stamped the greeting from Heard from the Heart at the bottom, and tied 5/8" Chocolate grosgrain ribbon around the card stock before adhering it to the Really Rust card.

But the really neat thing about this card is the SHIMMER!!!  I stamped the maple leaf in More Mustard ink onto Very Vanilla card stock, then cut it out.  I used a Stampin' Sponge with just a tiny, tiny bit of Champagne Mist Shimmer paint to make it sparkle and shine.  So pretty!!!

Again, I've had people ask if I would do this card class as a Stamps by Mail for those unable to attend.  Because I use many different stamp sets and accessories in my classes, it would be very difficult to offer this particular class that way.  So, I'll make you the same offer as last month.....

You can order the electronic instructions only for $5 and these will be emailed to you within 24 hours/

Instuctions Only

And just in case, you need to see one more card before you order......

This card uses the same stamp set and many of the same colors, plus it features the gorgeous Autumn Meadows Designer Series Paper.

Have a fabulous week!  I'll be back soon with more fabulous ideas for Fall.

Decor Elements

I've been rather busy lately with the Decor Elements line from Stampin' UP!  Today, I thought I would share a few of my "creations".

I drive a pretty boring tan minivan, so I added the family images to spruce it up a bit.

 

Aren't they cute?  I've had them on there for over a month and they have weathered the ups and downs of the midwest climate quite nicely.  Here is a great picture from convention that features all of the family figures that are available.  These are a top seller for Stampin' UP! right now.

  

My next decorating project was at my chiropractic office.  I thought the kids would get a kick out of this fun growth chart, but it has been the adult patients that have really taken notice of this chart.

 

I do reccommend 2 sets of hands to install this decor element.  It is TALL.....or maybe I am short.  Either way, this chart is super cute and only available until the end of this month.

 Visit my website for more information about this special offer.

The Flourishes Decor Element was one of the first I ever purchased and it took me a long time to figure out where I wanted to put it.  One night, I was lying in bed and kept looking at this wall....it definitely needed SOMETHING.  The Flourishes blended nicely with our candle sconces and adds a nice, subtle accent to the wall.

 

Our walls are a bit texturized and I do have a competitor's product on the opposite wall.  What I can tell you is that the SU decor elements were much easier to apply and have adhered better overall. 

My next projects for home decor are for the holidays.  I'm sure I'll be sharing those with you over the next few months.  Hope you've enjoyed my decor and it inspires you to decorate your world!

Holiday Mini is Here!

Okay, I've been sitting on something REAL GOOD for the last month and half.  Today is the day that I can finally share the Holiday Mini catalog with you.  This catalog is chock full of awesome new stamp sets, beautiful papers, the Build-a-Bear collection, and so much more!

If you have not received a copy of this beautiful catalog, email me with your address and I'll gladly send you one right away!  In the meantime, you can click the catalog to view it now.

Here is my first creation from my stash of Holiday Mini supplies.  I used the Petals-a-Plenty Textured Impressions folder to create this lovely embossed background.  The stamped image is from the Season of Joy stamp set and I thought the poinsettias coordinated beautifully with the background.   This is such a quick, easy, and stunning card that would be great for mass production.  It's never too early to start on your holiday cards!

Stamp Set:  Season of Joy

Ink:  Real Red

Paper:  Whisper White, Real Red

Accessories:  Big Shot, Petals-a-Plenty Textured Impressions folder, Real Red 5/8" grosgrain, dimensionals, clear rhinestone brad

 

Elegant Wedding or Anniversary Card

 

I think this is one of my favorite cards that we'll be making at the Fancy Folds class next week.  It is so simple and elegant, perfect for those Fall weddings!

I fell in love with this Christmas card made by Kimberly Van Diepen.  So when I saw her at convention swapping, I just about fell over myself to get one of her cards!!!

I copied Kimberly's basic layout, but changed it to a gatefold card.  My background also has a lot of texture.  I used the Stampin' UP! Backgrounds I Texturz Plates.  Here's a tip---lightly spritz your cardstock with water or alcohol, then place the card stock on the Texturz Plate and run it through the Big Shot.  You'll get a much deeper dry embossed impression.

And remember, if you can't attend the class, you still have an opportunity to purchase the cards, electronic instructions, or both.  Click here for details.

Falling Leaves Side Step Card

Sadly, this is not my own creation.  But it is one of my favorite swaps from convention!  The card was made by demonstrator Emily Turner and was based on a pattern by Patsy Waggoner.

The leaves were die cut with the Leaves #2 Originals Big Shot Die from the Autumn Traditions Designer Series Paper.  I just love all the rich colors and the dimension of this card, don't you?

We'll be making this card at my Fancy Folds class next week.  If you would like a set of the cards, electronic instructions, or both, check this post for ordering details.

Fancy Folds Class

I'm truly thrilled with the enthusiastic response to this class.  At this point, I only have 2 more spots available in the Friday, August 28th class.  If you live in the Kokomo, IN area, be sure to reserve your spot before this Friday!

I've been contacted by several people that live too far away about whether I would offer this as a class by mail kit.  Stampin' Up! is very clear about the rules for selling kits and I don't think that this class would be suitable as a class kit by mail due to the fact that there are numerous stamp sets needed to complete the 5 card designs.

However, you can receive the set of electronic instructions only for $5.  These will arrive in your inbox on Monday, August 31st.

Electronic Instructions Only

Today, I am featuring a Tri-Shutter Fold card with the Razzle Dazzle stamp set and Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series paper.  This card is a real stunner, and yet it is fairly simple to make.  I found another great  tutorial on SCS that helped tremendously in creating the card base.

 

Tomorrow, I'll feature another card from the Fancy Folds class.....stay tuned!