Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Paper Parade Project

WOOHOO!!!!!!!   My project for Paper Parade has been posted and I can finally share it with you!



I used the Big Top Birthday Designer Series Paper to create a 3-dimensional piece of framed artwork.  You'll also see my coordinating card below.


Bigtopfun-1


Bigtopfuncard



 


 


 


Like all the designers from UStamp with Dawn and Friends, I have created a pdf tutorial with step-by-step instructions for this project.  By joining the Paper Parade, you'll receive over 40 fabulous tutorials and lots of creative inspiration!  It's not too late to join.....simply click the link above to complete the registration process.


Happy Stampin'


MelissaSignature


 


 


 


 


 



Sunday, September 25, 2011

Sweet!

Here is the final card from the recent Birthday Stamp-a-Stack.  It features the Sweets for the Sweet stamp set and I used the new Dazzling Details to accent the stamped image.  It's just a fun and cheerful card!


Lollipopcard
I will give you a tip when using the Dazzling Details.  If you are using it on a stamped image created with Classic ink, apply the Dazzling Details in an area where the color will not bleed.  As you can see in the image below, I only applied it to the center of the inked areas.  If I had covered the entire image, the ink would have smeared.


Lollipopcardcu


MelissaRecipeGraphic
STAMP SET:  Sweets for the Sweet


INK:  Real Red, Daffodil Delight, Crumb Cake


PAPER:  Whisper White, Real Red, Old Olive, Big Top Birthday Designer Series Paper


ACCESSORIES:  1" Circle Punch, Real Red 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Dimensionals, Dazzling Details, Scallop Edge Border Punch


 


 


Happy Stampin'


MelissaSignature



Saturday, September 24, 2011

Under the Big Top

The third card from my recent Birthday Stamp-a-Stack class features the Under the Big Top stamp set.  You could easily reproduce this card with any of the images from the set.


Underthebigtop


Celebratemini
The card measures 3" x 3" square and fits in our mini square envelopes.  Cut your paper to 3" x 6" and score it at 3" with the Simply Scored tool.  I like this card size to use with gift bags and packages.


MelissaRecipeGraphic STAMP SET:  Under the Big Top


INK:  Stazon Black


PAPER:  Whisper White, Tempting Turquoise, Daffodil Delight, Big Top Birthday Designer Series Paper


ACCESSORIES:  Markers(Sahara Sand, Real Red, Tempting Turquoise, Daffodil Delight), Daffodil Delight and Real Red 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Tempting Turquoise 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensionals


 


Happy Stampin'


MelissaSignature


 



Friday, September 23, 2011

Up, Up, and Away

 Here is one more card from my recent Birthday Stamp-a-Stack card class.  This card features the Up, Up, & Away stamp set and so is easy to make!  Just stamp the individual elements and add the pretty ribbon....you're done!


The card measures 3" x 6" and fits nicely in our small open-end envelopes.  I really like this size for cards.  You can get 4 cards from a 12" x 12" paper by cutting it into 4, 6" x 6" squares.  Score the cards at 3" with the Simply Scored tool and you've got the start to a great card!


Ballooncard


MelissaRecipeGraphic STAMP SET:  Up, Up, & Away


INK:  Daffodil Delight, Old Olive, Tempting Turquoise, Real Red, Soft Suede, Basic Black


PAPER:  Daffodil Delight, Tempting Turquoise, Whisper White


ACCESSORIES:  Daffodil Delight 1-1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon


 


 


Happy Stampin'


MelissaSignature



Thursday, September 22, 2011

Grab your party hat!

Last week, I had a Birthday Bash Stamp-a-Stack.  Those that attended got to make 8 cards, 2 each of 4 different designs.  I'm going to share one card a day for the next four days.


Partyhat
I used the Big Top Birthday Designer Series Paper and the Happiest Birthday Wishes stamp set for the greeting.  You can earn this stamp set for FREE by hosting a Stampin' UP! workshop or catalog party.


The card measures 5-1/4" square and will fit nicely in our medium square envelopes.  Cut your card stock to 5-1/4" x 10-1/2" and score at 5-1/4" with the Simply Scored tool.


The hat was die cut with the Big Shot using the new Perfect Pennants Bigz L die.  Cut a Real Red pennant with the die, then cut it in half lengthwise.  Layer it behind the DSP to make your party hat stand out.


My favorite part of this card is the pleated paper bottom.  This is so easy to do with the Simply Scored tool!  Score the paper at 1/2", 1-1/2", 2", 3", 3-1/2"--continue alternating score lines at 1/2" and 1" intervals.  Fan fold the paper to create pleats and adhere to card with sticky strip.  Tie baker's twine around pleats to secure.


Partyhatcu


MelissaRecipeGraphic


STAMP SET:  Happiest Birthday Wishes


PAPER:  Tempting Turquoise, Whisper White, Old Olive, Daffodil Delight, Real Red, Big Top Birthday Designer Series Paper


INK:  Tempting Turquoise


ACCESSORIES:  3/4" and 1" Circle Punches, Big Shot, Perfect Pennants Bigz L Die, White Baker's Twine, Sticky Strip, Simply Scored, Dimensionals


 


Happy Stampin'


MelissaSignature



SNAIL Sale 9/22/11 through 10/15/11

 


SNAIL Sale is Here!


$3.50 per refill (includes tax & SU shipping)


(minimum 10 refills per order)


SNAIL refill SNAIL Adhesive (simple, neat, affordable in-line) applies a controlled amount of adhesive directly to your project, so your hands and work area never get sticky. A small amount creates a strong bond, so your cartridge lasts a long time. Refills slip right into the cartridge, so you’ll never find yourself without your SNAIL. You’ll love the adhesive, and it’s a great price, too!



■ 472” of double-sided adhesive
■ Great for cards, scrapbooks, or other art projects
■ Keeps fingers and art pieces free from messy glue
■ Permanent; creates a strong bond


 




















The Fine Print



  • Refills must be ordered in multiples of 10 (10, 20, 30, etc.)

  • Orders will be placed on September 30th and October 15th

  • Payment must be received by September 29th for 9/30 and October 14th for 10/15 order--cash, checks, and Paypal accepted

  • Local pick-up at no charge

  • Out of town customers will pay a $6 shipping & handling charge


This sale is offered exclusively by Melissa Stout, Independent Stampin' Up! demonstrator.  I am offering you all of my discounts on this product.  Now is a great time to stock up as you prepare for the upcoming holiday craft season.


 


Use this button if you want to have the SNAIL refills shipped to you.  Allow up to 2 weeks for delivery after order has been placed.












SNAIL Sale



Use this button if you are local to the Kokomo, IN area and plan to arrange pick up of your refills.










SNAIL Sale without Shipping Charge



Monday, September 12, 2011

What was I afraid of?

One of the first accessories from the Holiday Mini catalog that I purchased was the Mica Flakes.  While my order was in transit, I had read horror stories on the message boards about the flakes flying around everywhere and sticking to everything.  So when the Mica Flakes arrived, I kept them in their neat little plastic bag and stored them away.


Flash forward to this weekend.....I needed to finish up a Holiday Mini swap and needed to add an accessory to the card.  I didn't have enough of any of the other new accessories to make 50 cards, but I knew I had a huge jar of unopened Mica Flakes.  So.....I did some experimenting and the flakes aren't bad to work with at all!  I do have a few recommendations, though.



  1. Crystal effects is very effective for adhering the flakes to card stock, but you'll need to allow at least 30 minutes for it to dry.

  2. You must use a Powder Pals tray to contain the flakes.  Wipe it with a swiffer cloth or used dryer cloth first to minimize static cling.

  3. Pinch the flakes with your fingers.  Do not attempt to pour the flakes onto your project.  Trust me....NOT a good idea!


So, here is my finished card along with a close-up of the Mica Flakes:


Micalodge2 copy Micalodgecu2


  And just for fun, I shot a quick video to show you just how easy it is to use the Mica Flakes.



 


 


 


MelissaRecipeGraphic
STAMP SET:  Christmas Lodge


INK: Early Espresso


PAPER:  Whisper White, Early Espresso, Crumb Cake, Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper


ACCESSORIES:  1-1/4" Square Punch, Crystal Effects, Mica Flakes, Dimensionals


 


 


CARD STOCK MEASUREMENTS:


Early Espresso:  5-1/2" x 8-1/2", scored at 4-1/4"


Early Espresso:  2-1/2" x 3-1/4"


Crumb Cake:  2-1/4" x 3", 4" x 5-1/4"


Whisper White:  3/4" x 4"


Frostwood Lodge DSP:  1" x 5" (wood), 2" x 2" (plaid)


 


This card is very simple to stamp and would be great to make in bulk for the Holidays.  If you need help figuring out the supplies you'll need for your holiday stamping, don't hesitate to contact me.


You can order any of the supplies shown on my Stampin' Up! website.


Happy Stampin'


MelissaSignature


 



Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Top Picks Under $5

Just like in fashion, it's often the stamping accessories that make the project pop!  I've selected 5 great new products from the Holiday Mini catalog that will take your stamping to the next level AND won't make a big dent in your pocketbook.


You can order any of these items on my Stampin' Up! website and have them shipped directly to you.


 


Dazzlingdetails DAZZLING DETAILS


Item #  124117


Price:  $2.50


 


This iridescent glitter glue will add dazzling sparkle to any project with less mess! The narrow tip allows for precise application.


 


 


 


 


 


Glimmerpaper SILVER GLIMMER PAPER


Item #  124005


Price:  $4.95


Our Glimmer Paper is a no-mess way to add glitter to any project—now in silver, too! Cover-weight paper covered in Red or Silver glitter that will not brush off. Create festive shapes with Bigz, Bigz L, or Bigz XL, and Originals Dies, or any cutting tool. 2 sheets total. 12" x 12".


 


 


Minijinglebells
MINI JINGLE BELLS

Item # 124116


Price:  $2.95


Add a little jingle to your holiday projects and décor with these mini silver bells. Bells really ring and easily attach to your projects using our Linen Thread. 48 total bells; each Approximately 6 mm diameter.


 


Cellobags 1" x 8" CELLO BAGS


Item # 124134


Price:  $2.50


Narrow cellophane bags perfect for filling with a row of treats, a pencil, or anything! Great for gifts—add a tag or topper you’ve created using any punch or Big Shot die. Adhesive on top keeps everything inside. Each measures 1" x 8". 50 per package.


 


 


Mica
MICA FLAKES


Item # 124115


Price:  $3.50


Give your holiday projects the look of snow without all the cold! Our large, white, iridescent Mica Flakes give you shimmer, sparkle, and softness. Perfect filler for our new Shaker Frames or inside Treat Cups. Adhere to projects using Multipurpose Liquid Glue. Approximately 0.7 oz.


 


 


For my last Facebook contest, the winner received their choice of any of these items.  My next FACEBOOK contest is going to be even bigger and better!  When the Stamp Doc page reaches 300 Likes, I will select one winner to receive the best new accessory in the Holiday Mini Catalog.......


 


SIMPLY SCORED


Item # 122334


Price:  $29.95


Simplyscored
Take the chore out of scoring! The Simply Scored Scoring Tool’s base fits paper or card stock up to 12" x 12" and features score tracks every 1/8". Features two easy-to-read rulers (with inch markings down to 1/8") along top and left side for perfect scoring. (One standard left-to-right ruler and one zero center ruler.) Includes three markers and stylus. Bottom of base has nonmarking
and nonskid feet to secure it on your work areach Base measures Approximately
15-1/8" x 13-1/4" x 1".


 


 


So head on over to FACEBOOK and be sure to LIKE the Stamp Doc page.  You'll be entered to win a FREE Simply Scored tool!  Good luck!


Happy Stampin'


MelissaSignature



Friday, September 2, 2011

MDS to the Rescue!

My little brother is (finallly) getting married this weekend.  In July, my mom & I hosted a Bridal shower for my future Sister-in-law and I was in charge of the invitations.  July is always a hectic month, so I needed to create something elegant, but quick & easy, too.


I love My Digital Studio for creating special event invitations.  There are just so many options to choose from!  I think the hardest part is figuring out the wording and the arrangement of the text.  Once you've gotten that little task out of the way, you can decide what style of text that you want.  You can use any fonts that are stored on your computer and it is very easy to find free or inexpensive fonts online that are appropriate for your specific event. 


The next step is adding the fun stamped elements, any embellishments, and any designer series paper.  This is the part that I really enjoy.  You can truly set the tone of the event by the elements that you add to your invitation.


Showerinvite


NOTE:  I blocked out the names and personal information to protect the innocent.  ;0)  The black outer border was not part of the design.


After creating the design, I printed the cards onto Whisper White cardstock and added them to the inside of the invitation.  The outside cover of the invitation included some die-cut and stamped elements.  I had everything pre-cut, then put them together in assembly-line fashion.   Here is a picture of the "process" and the finished invites:


Invitestuff


Invitecover


 
IMG_1998_edited-1


If you own My Digital Studio, now is the time to put on your creativity caps!  Stampin' Up just announced a contest for MDS users and the winners will receive $400 in downloads.  This is an amazing prize!  I may just have to enter myself!  You can read all the details here.


  MDScontest_LP_header_sept2011
Have a safe & fabulous weekend!  Don't forget about my Facebook contest.  I'll be selecting a winner on Tuesday and someone will be receiving an exciting new product from the Holiday mini catalog.


Happy Stampin'


MelissaSignature


 



Thursday, September 1, 2011

It's Time for the Holiday Mini!

Lodgecard2
I am so excited to finally share the Holiday Mini catalog with you!  There are so many fabulous products inside and I used quite a few on today's card.


The stamp set is called Christmas Lodge and it features some great line art images, as well as 2 elegant greetings.  It is by far, my favorite new Holiday set!  I stamped the image with Versamark ink and then heat embossed it with Cherry Cobbler embossing powder. 


Clodge


The Christmas Lodge stamp set is a part of the Frostwood Lodge product suite which also includes the Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper and the Early Expresso 3/8" Quilted Satin Ribbon. 


Flodge


The white background was embossed with the Big Shot and a new Textured Impressions Embossing Folder--Snow Burst.  Don't you just love the simple texture?


And one of my absolute new favorites is the Silver Glimmer paper!  This stuff is absolutely stunning in real life.  I only used a small piece on this card and it really makes it pop!


Lodgecard1


So what are your MUST-HAVES from the Holiday Mini catalog?  You can join the conversation on my Facebook page and I'll be giving away one of my favorites on Tuesday.


Holidaymini11
View the Mini Catalog HERE


You can place an order anytime on my Stampin' Up! website.   Feel free to contact me if you need any assistance with designing a special project.  You can email me at melissa@thestampdoc.com and I'll be happy to assist you.


Happy Stampin'


MelissaSignature