Blog - Page 26 of 77 - Simply Said With Karen Blog

Groundhog Day Stamping – Will There Be 6 More Weeks of Winter?

Posted on February 1, 2017 by Karen GilbertFebruary 1, 2017

Groundhog Day Stamping

What does Groundhog Day Stamping have to do with anything? Canada and the United States celebrate Groundhog Day on February 2nd. Why do we have groundhog day? After enduring several months of winter, with its snow, rain and cold, it is human nature to look forward to spring.

When the groundhog comes out of his burrow on February 2nd, will he see his shadow or not? If he sees his shadow, he will run back into his burrow. We know that winter will last another 6 weeks.

What would you do if you have another 6 weeks of stamping? Would you bemoan the fact that spring is not going to make an appearance soon or would you be delighted that you could get some more stamping, cardmaking and scrapbooking done. We all know that spring is a busy time. The garden needs tending, the kids outdoor sports are starting up again, visitors may arrive on your doorstep. In essence, life gets busy, leaving very little time to stamp.

If there is 6 more weeks of winter, here are a few suggestions for you:

Get ahead start on some of the cards you will need over the next couple of months.
Create and stamp cards that remind you that spring is coming.
Try a new technique…there is time right now.
Attend a class and enjoy time with other like-minded people.

Here is a card that will remind you of Spring and uses new products from the 2017 Occasions catalogue.

Recipe – Click on the item links to see the products

Stamps: Dragonfly Dreams.

Ink/Markers: Watercolor Pencils, Old Olive, Smoky Slate, Calypso Coral.

Paper: Thick Whisper White, Whisper White, Calypso Coral, Smoky Slate, Inside The Lines DSP.

Accessories: Big Shot, Seaside Textured Impression Embossing Folder, Detailed Dragonfly Thinlits , 5/8” Burlap Ribbon, Rhinestone Jewels.

One of the ideas suggested is to take a class. The Annual Birthday Card Class is happening on February 16, 17, 18, 2017. Create 8 cards – 2 cards of 4 different designs. Registration fee is $35.00 and includes all supplies.

For more details check out this LINK and contact me for more details, or RSVP at the bottom of the invite.

So, try some Groundhog Day stamping.

Handmade Shaker Card Features the Barnyard Chicks

Posted on January 30, 2017 by Karen GilbertJanuary 30, 2017

Handmade Shaker Card

Create a handmade shaker card using the Hey! Chicks stamp set. What would you say if I tell you that you can received this stamp set free?

Right now, it’s Sale-a-Bration time! It’s Stampin’ Up!’s biggest sale of the year, and you can earn free product when you purchase product from any of the catalogues, or promotional items or Clearance Rack. Here’s how you can get your hands on this free product.

For every $60 CDN (not including shipping or taxes), you can choose a free product from the Sale-a-Bration brochure. Easy right? There are a variety of products available for free, including stamp sets, Designer Series Paper, embellishments, kits, and a card tin to hold all you beautifully created cards.

Here’s an example of a project created from the free item Hey, Chick stamp set.

Recipe

Stamps: Hey, Chick.

Ink/Markers: Watercolor Pencils, Stazon Black

Paper: Basic Black, Crushed Curry, Whisper White, Vellum, It’s My Party DSP, Window Sheets.

Accessories: Big Shot, Party Pop Up Thinlits, Metallics Sequin Assortment, It’s My Party Washi Tape, 5/8” Burlap Ribbon, Neutral Candy Dots.

On product that makes a shaker card easy to create is the Foam Adhesive Strips. These strips were introduced in the 2016-2017 Annual Catalogue. They resemble Stampin’ Dimensionals. Because the adhesive is in strips, it is easier to place around the cardstock to ensure that the sprinkles inside the shaker card don’t escape.

Click on this LINK to see an example of another shaker card. Create your own handmade shaker card and check out Sale-a-Bration.

Product List

Hey Chick Clear Mount Stamp Set [143331]	Watercolor Pencils [141709]	Jet Black Stazon Ink Pad [101406]	Basic Black 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [121045]	Crushed Curry 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [131199]	Whisper White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [100730]
Window Sheets [142314]	Vellum 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [101856]	Party Pop-Up Thinlits Dies [140620]	Metallics Sequin Assortment [138390]	5/8″ (1.6 Cm) Burlap Ribbon [141487]

How To Create a Peekaboo Card to Celebrate a Special Event

Posted on January 24, 2017 by Karen GilbertJanuary 25, 2017

Create a Peekaboo Card

Create a Peekaboo Card with the Window Box thinlit dies and the Window Shopping stamp set. Usually, the Window Box thinlit dies are used to create a gift box. However, it is great to use your products to create something outside the box.

The first step is to create the watercolor panel that will peek out behind the die cut panel. Place the hexagon die so that the design will be pleasing to you. Use a pencil to lightly mark several points where you would like the different coloured inks to appear. Now start painting on either Shimmery White or Watercolor Paper with the inks and an Aqua Painter Brush.

For instance, the Pear Pizzazz ink appears behind the cut outs that resemble leaves, the large flower show Blushing Bride ink. Finally, the remaining areas use Sweet Sugarplum and Flirty Flamingo inks. Now, die cut the Whisper White panel and attach to coloured panel with Stampin’ Dimensionals.

Sweet Sugarplum Peekaboo Card Recipe

Stamps: Window Shopping.

Ink/Markers: Blushing Bride, Pear Pizzazz, Flirty Flamingo, Sweet Sugarplum, VersaMark.

Paper: Thick Whisper White, Whisper White Shimmery White.

Accessories: Big Shot, Window Box Thinlit Dies, Rhinestone Jewels, Silver Thread, 3/8” Metallic Ribbon Combo Pack, White Emboss Powder.

Watermelon Wonder Peekaboo Card Recipe

Stamps: Window Shopping, Love Sparkles.

Ink/Markers: Emerald Envy, Watermelon Wonder, Bermuda Bay, Flirty Flamingo.

Paper: Thick Whisper White, Whisper White, Watercolor.

Accessories: Big Shot, Window Box Thinlit Dies, 2016/18 In Color Enamel Dots, Emerald Envy 1/8″ Taffeta Ribbon.

Follow the same logic to create the Watermelon Wonder peekaboo card. The inks are painted on Watercolor cardstock.

Product List

Window Shopping Clear-Mount Bundle [144743]	Love Sparkles Clear-Mount Stamp Set [143183]	Whisper White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Thick Cardstock [140272]	Whisper White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [100730]	Shimmery White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [101910]	Watercolor Paper [122959]
Emerald Envy Classic Stampin’ Pad [141396]	Watermelon Wonder Classic Stampin’ Pad [138323]	Bermuda Bay Classic Stampin’ Pad [131171]	Flirty Flamingo Classic Stampin’ Pad [141397]	Versamark Pad [102283]	2016-2018 In Color Enamel Shapes [141410]
Rhinestone Basic Jewels Embellishments [119246]	Ribbon Taffeta 1/8″ (3.2 Mm) Emerald Envy [142742]	Silver Metallic Thread [138402]	3/8″ Metallic Ribbon Combo Pack [143601]	White Stampin’ Emboss Powder [109132]

Finding Dory Thanks Friends – Use Inks to Color Emboss and Emboss Resist

Posted on January 20, 2017 by Karen GilbertJanuary 20, 2017

Dory Thanks Friends

Dory thanks friends with a card…ok, if she could create one. But you can create a thank you card. How often has a friend, or a family member gone above and beyond to do something for you. Do you create a thank you card for them? Most often we just say “Thanks” and leave it at that.

But, to give a friend a card, has a tangible meaning. They can hold it in their hands, they can read what you wrote and then get to keep the card to remember that thanks.

Recipe

Stamps: Seaside Shore, Rose Wonder.

Ink/Markers: VersaMark, Daffodil Delight, Melon Mambo, Bermuda Bay, Dapper Denim, Memento Tuxedo Black.

Paper: Dapper Denim, Whisper White.

Accessories: Clear Emboss Powder, White Emboss Powder, Copper Emboss Powder, Paper Snips, Heat Tool, Watercolor Pencils.

This card was fun to create. Using the emboss resist creates a stunning card and it is relatively easy. And yes, it has cutouts that you need to fussy cut. Oh well, it went really fast.

I use Stampin’ Up! products to create my cards and SU does not have coloured emboss powder. So, how did it do it?

To achieve the coloured embossing, these are the steps:

On Whisper White, stamp the angle fish in Tuxedo Black. Color in the white spaces with the Melon Mambo Watercolor Pencil.
On Whisper White, stamp the smaller fish in Daffodil Delight. Color the white spaces with the Bermuda Bay Watercolor Pencil.
Use the Paper Snips to fussy cut the fish.
Place the fish on your VersaMark pad and press so that the VersaMark ink is transferred to the fish.
Sprinkle with Clear Emboss Powder and heat set with Heat Tool.

Create the Background

Stamp the wavy image at the bottom of the Whisper White panel with VersaMark. Stamp the bubble image going towards the top of the panel. Sprinkle all the images with White Emboss Powder and heat set with Heat Tool.
Using a sponge or sponge dauber, sponge Dapper Denim ink on the bottom of the panel , sponge Daffodil Delight ink on the left top corner and fill out the rest of the panel with Bermuda Bay ink.
Take a clean cloth and wipe the excess ink off the embossed images.
Stamp the anchor image with VersaMark ink and heat emboss with Copper Emboss Powder.
Finally, stamp the sentiment of your choice in Dapper Denim.

Mount the colored panel on the Dapper Denim card base.

Have fun creating your own Dory thanks friends card.

Product List

Seaside Shore Clear-Mount Stamp Set [141625]	Rose Wonder Photopolymer Stamp Set [140697]	Tuxedo Black Memento Ink Pad [132708]	Versamark Pad [102283]	Watercolor Pencils [141709]	Dapper Denim Classic Stampin’ Pad [141394]
Daffodil Delight Classic Stampin’ Pad [126944]	Bermuda Bay Classic Stampin’ Pad [131171]	Dapper Denim 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock [141414]	Whisper White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [100730]	Clear Stampin’ Emboss Powder [109130]	White Stampin’ Emboss Powder [109132]
Copper Stampin’ Emboss Powder [141636]	Paper Snips Scissors [103579]	Heat Tool [129053]

Create Gift Boxes Using Window Box Thinlits Dies

Posted on January 16, 2017 by Karen GilbertJanuary 15, 2017

Create Gift Boxes

Create Gift Boxes with the WIndow Box Thinlits Dies.and personalize them for the person that you are gifting. There is a reason behind the name..

If you look closely at the die cuts, there are 3 thinlits that you can use to create peekaboo windows in the sides of the box. Before putting the box together, select paper that you can slide behind the cutouts. For this box, I used the silver glimmer paper to give some sparkle. I used the thinlits with the circle cutouts and placed it in every other side.

Create Gift Boxes

There are various ways to decorate the top of the box. Here, I did a flower in Mint Macaron with a Peekaboo Peach center. Create the flower using the Festive Flower Punch. Punch out 15 large petals, 12 smaller petals and 4 center flowers from Mint Macaron.

I spray some rubbing alcohol on the petals to distress them a bit. Before attaching the petals, use a rounded tool to lift the petals. Attach the petals in layers and overlap each layer. For the flower center, cut a strip of Peekaboo Peach cardstock at 11″ x 3/4″. Use the Fringe Scissors and fringe along the length of the paper. . Attach a strip of Tear and Tape Adhesive and start rolling the strip.

I found it easier to have the adhesive on the outside as you roll and remove the tape backing as you progress.

Last but not least, punch a sentiment from the stamp set, die cut with a framelit. String a piece of Whisper White Baker’s Twine through the hole and tie around the Metallic ribbon.

Recipe

Stamps: Window Shopping.

Ink/Markers: Sweet Sugarplum.

Paper: Sweet Sugarplum, Mint Macaron, Peekaboo Peach, Whisper White, Silver Glimmer Paper.

Accessories: Big Shot, Window Box Thinlit Dies, 3/8” Metallic Ribbon Combo Pack (Silver), White Baker’s Twine, Festive Flower Punch, Fringe Scissors.

You can purchase the Window Shopping stamp set and the matching Window Box Thinlit Dies as a bundle and save 10%. Check it out HERE!

You, too can create gift boxes for your gifts. Create a few to have on hand.

Product List

Window Shopping Clear-Mount Bundle [144743]	Sweet Sugarplum Classic Stampin’ Pad [141395]	Sweet Sugarplum 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock [141418]	Mint Macaron 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock [138337]	Peekaboo Peach 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock [141417]	Silver Glimmer Paper [135314]
Whisper White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [100730]	3/8″ Metallic Ribbon Combo Pack [143601]	Twine Baker’s Whisper White [124262]	Festive Flower Builder Punch [139682]	Fringe Scissors [133325]

Three 2017 Paper Crafting Trends That I See – Do You Have A Favorite

Posted on January 13, 2017 by Karen GilbertJanuary 12, 2017

Three 2017 Paper Crafting Trends

As we begin the new year, what do you think will be the top 2017 Paper Crafting Trends?

2017 Paper Crafting Trends

Going through the 2017 Occasions and Sale-a-bration catalogues, several products piqued my interest as trends.

Colouring continues to be a trend in 2017. There are 2 new products in the catalogues I am sure will be on your list. First, is the Watercolor Pencils. Use the high quality pencils to watercolor stamped images or to create backgrounds. The color will move around when you use either the Aqua Painter Brushes and/or the Blender Pens. The colors offered are in the current Stampin’ Up! colors.

The second product is the Inside The Lines Designer Series Paper, a Sale-a-Bration item. The paper is printed in black and white with 2 sheets of 4 different designs. You can earn the paper for FREE by having a $60.00CDN (shipping and taxes not included) order. Match the paper to any stamped image to create a WOW project.

The second trend are the whimsical flying creatures. A new stamp set in the 2017 Occasions catalogue is the Dragonfly Dreams. This is a two-step stamp set with matching dragonfly thinlits. There are people who believe that the dragon symbolizes transformation and mystic. Here is a link to an article that you may peak your curiosity. Dragonfly Symbolism

The bee is often seen as a symbol of tenacity. Aerodynamically, the bee should not be flying. But because they don’t know this, they fly anyway. Maybe we need to take an approach to life like the bee.

The third trend is Succulents. Actually i didn’t even know that Succulents are a trend until I saw that new Occasions Catalogue. The Oh So Succulent stamp set and matching framelits lend themselves to many different projects….scrapbook pages, cards and 3-D items.

Three reasons that Succulents are trendy:

People are living in smaller spaces and don’t have room for large gardens. Succulents can live inside or outside.
It is easy to care for Succulents. They do not require tons of water, they are fire-resistant and can act as a fire retardant in areas that are susceptible to wildfires.
Succulents come in many colours, not just green and they do produce vibrant flowers. So, what is not to love about succulents.

Trending Products

Oh So Succulent Photopolymer Bundle

[145184]

Dragonfly Dreams Photopolymer Bundle

[144728]

Watercolor Pencils

[141709]

Aqua Painters

[103954]

Blender Pens

[102845]

Inside The Lines Designer Series Paper

[143830]

These are my three 2017 paper crafting trends, what are your 3 top trends for 2017. Leave me a.comment. I would love to hear or see your ideas.

Birthday Blast Greeting Card – Have Fun On Your Day

Posted on January 9, 2017 by Karen GilbertJanuary 9, 2017

Birthday Blast Greeting Card

Create a Birthday Blast Greeting Card with the Birthday Blast stamp set and matching thinlits, Star Blast Edgelits Dies. Even better, bundle them up and receive 10% of the total purchase price.

However, birthday cards are not the only cards that you can create using this stamp set. Use it for graduations, awards, and even engagements. All you have to do is change up the paper and ink colors.

To create this card, I used a combination of Night of Navy and Watermelon Wonder cardstock and cut the star blast edgelit die from Vellum. Do not attach the Vellum to the stamped and embossed image so that the vellum appears to be floating..

Birthday Bash Greeting Card

Birthday Blast Greeting Card

Recipe

Stamps: Birthday Blast.

Ink/Markers: VersaMark.

Paper: Night of Navy, Watermelon Wonder, Affectionately Yours DSP.

Accessories: Big Shot, Star Blast Edgelits Dies, Copper Embossing Powder, Watermelon 5/8” Striped Ribbon.

See another card using the Heat Embossing Technique and Vellum Cardstock. Click on the LINK.

The Affectionately Yours DSP package contains two specialty sheets that are embossed with copper. The DSP on this card is from this package. I love the bright colours of the flowers. This paper says celebrations to me.

If you are looking for a fun birthday card, the Birthday Blast stamp set and matching framelits certainly will help your quest to create a fun birthday card.

If you require supplies to create this project, order from my ONLINE STORE.

Product List

Birthday Blast Clear-Mount Bundle [144716]	Versamark Pad [102283]	Night Of Navy 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [100867]	Watermelon Wonder 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock [138334]	Affectionately Yours Specialty Designer Series Paper [141632]	Copper Stampin’ Emboss Powder [141636]
Watermelon Wonder 5/8″ (1.6 Cm) Mini Striped Ribbon [141433]

Create Cards With The New Succulent Stamp Set

Posted on January 6, 2017 by Karen GilbertJanuary 6, 2017

The New Succulent Stamp Set

If you love succulents in your garden, you can now create a card using the new Succulent Stamp Set. Oh So Succulent is the stamp set’s name and there are matching framelits. Oh so lucky.

This stamp set is also a 2-step stamp set. I will record a video and upload to this blog which shows you how to line up the stamps.

Sale-a-Bration

Stampin’ Up! Annual Sale-a-Bration has started and will continue through to March 31, 2017. Sale-a-Bration is Stampin’ Up!’s biggest sale of the year. With this promotion, if you spend $60 CDN, you can choose a FREE gift from the Sale-a-Bration brochure. There is something to please everyone…stamps, paper, embellishments.

Check out the products that are available HERE. You won’t be disappointed. You can also view all the products and order them from the 2017 Occasions Catalogue. For every $60.00 CDN you order, you will receive 1 Free item….order $60 – get 1 Free product, order $120. and get 2 Free products, etc.

Recipe

Stamps: Oh So Succulent.

Ink/Markers: Sweet Sugar Plum, Watermelon Wonder, Cucumber Crush, Wild Wasabi, Mint Macaron, Crumb Cake.

Paper: Thick Whisper White, Whisper White, Cucumber Crush, Crumb Cake, Affectionately Yours DSP.

Accessories: Big Shot, Boho Chic Textured Impression Embossing Folder, Succulent Framelits Dies, Banner Triple Punch, White Tea Lace Doilies, Rhinestone Jewels, Thick Whisper White Baker’s Twine.

The 2 Sweet Sugar Plus flowers are stamped full strength for the outline and the solid stamp is stamped off once. The same method was used for the remaining flowers and greenery. For added interest, the piece of DSP is attached to 1/2 Tea Lace White Doily and off set on the embossed Cucumber Crush pane.

What colour combinations can you come up with to create your succulent card using the new succulent stamp set.

Product List

Oh So Succulent Photopolymer Bundle [145184]	Whisper White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Thick Cardstock [140272]	Whisper White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [100730]	Cucumber Crush 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock [138335]	Crumb Cake 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [120953]	Crumb Cake Classic Stampin’ Pad [126975]
Sweet Sugarplum Classic Stampin’ Pad [141395]	Watermelon Wonder Classic Stampin’ Pad [138323]	Cucumber Crush Classic Stampin’ Pad [138324]	Wild Wasabi Classic Stampin’ Ink Refill [109020]	Mint Macaron Classic Stampin’ Pad [138326]	Boho Chic Textured Impressions Embossing Folder [138286]
Banner Triple Punch [138292]	Rhinestone Basic Jewels Embellishments [119246]	Whisper White Thick Baker’s Twine [141688]

Stamp Emboss Technique Creates a Unique Card

Posted on December 29, 2016 by Karen GilbertDecember 29, 2016

Stamp Emboss Technique

Have you ever tried the stamp emboss technique? This technique has become popular over the past year. I have tried several time to use this technique but have not been happy with the outcome. This time, the embossed card stock turned out exactly how I envisioned the process. There is a bit of a learning curve, so I guess practice makes perfect.

First, I will show you the card and then explain how to do this technique.

Recipe

Stamps: Guy Greetings, Lovely as a Tree, Banners for You.

Ink/Markers: Tuxedo Black Memento, Garden Green, Soft Suede.

Paper: Very Vanilla, Going Places DSP Stack

Accessories: Big Shot, Woodland Embossing Folder, Bunch of Banners Framelits, Neutral Candy Dots.

The “How To”

The first step is to decide where you want your image to land on the cardstock after it has been embossed. A few things to remember: before stamping the image on your embossing folder , decide if you want the embossed side or the debossed side to hold the image. Because, I wanted the birch trees to stand out, I stamped the embossed side of the embossing folder.

***TIP: The words ” Stampin’ Up!” on the embossing folder indicate that this will be the side to stamp your image.

Stamp the car image from the Guy Greetings stamp set using the Tuxedo Black ink on a post it note, ink the stamp again and stamp on the Woodlands Embossing Folder.

***TIP: Remember that the image will be reversed when you run the Embossing Folder through the Big Shot. For example if you stamp on the right side of the embossing folder, your image will end up on the left side of your cardstock.

Cut out the car image that is stamped on the Post-It-Note, because it will be used as a mask. Lay on top of the stamped car image. Now, stamp the Evergreen Tree from the Lovely as a Tree stamp set using Garden Green ink. This technique makes the trees from part of the background to the birch trees.

There , that is what the Stamp Emboss Technique is about. This can be used a different stamps and embossing folders depending upon the look you are wanting on your card.

FINISH

Now, layer your panel: card base, DSP, and art panel. Before adding the art panel, I did sponge a bit of the soft suede ink on the birch trees and around the Very Vanilla panel.

Stamp your sentiment on a piece of Very Vanilla, using the sentiments of your choice from the Thoughtful Banners stamp set and die cut using the Bunch of Banners Framelits. Sponge the sentiment banners using Crumb Cake ink.

Give the Stamp Emboss Technique a try and let me know how you made out. I would love it if you left a comment.

Product List

Guy Greetings Photopolymer Stamp Set [137178]	Lovely As A Tree Clear-Mount Stamp Set [127793]	Very Vanilla 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [101650]	Tuxedo Black Memento Ink Pad [132708]	Garden Green Classic Stampin’ Pad [126973]	Crumb Cake Classic Stampin’ Pad [126975]
Big Shot [143263]	Woodland Textured Impressions Embossing Folder [139673]	Bunch Of Banners Framelits Dies [141488]

Beautiful Hot Air Balloon Birthday Cards – Create Your Own

Posted on December 23, 2016 by Karen GilbertDecember 23, 2016

Beautiful Hot Air Balloon Birthday Cards

How does a beautiful hot air balloon floating in the sky make you feel? Do you feel happy, exhilarated, excited? Do you wish that you could take a trip in one?

Well, now if you can’t fly in one, you can create a card with the new Lift Me Up stamp set and matching framelits. Yes, the 2017 Occasions catalogue will be live on January 4, 2017. When the catalogue is love, then, Sale-a-bration, Stampin’ Up!’s biggest sale event of the year goes live also.

Hot Air Balloon Birthday Cards

Recipe

Stamps: Lift Me Up, Labeler Alphabet.

Ink/Markers: Watermelon Wonder, VersaMark.

Paper: Smoky Slate, Watermelon Wonder, Calypso Coral, Pumpkin Pie, Night of Navy, Mint Macaron, Whisper White, Early Espresso, Peekaboo Peach, Carried Away Designer Series Paper,

Accessories: Big Shot, Up & Away Thinlits Dies, Outdoor Adventure Framelits, White Embossing Powder.

Bronwyn at Addinktive Designs inspired me with her card.. I believe that she is the Queen of the Double Z-fold card. There is several reasons why I like this style of card: there is a large surface to work on providing you with room to create, you can tell a story with this style,

This is the card that I created for my 10 year old Granddaughter for her birthday. Her reaction was “WOW”. Did you make this card? So, I am taking that as a compliment.

The Outdoor Adventures Framelit Dies and the Carried Away Designer Series Paper are great to use as a background for the hot air balloons. The Carried Away Designer Series Paper is FREE when you purchase $60.00 worth of product. Yes, it’s in the Sale-a-bration catalogue.

Two framelits in the Up & Away Thinlit Dies set, make it possible to place different colours of cardstock behind the balloon. Add a couple of clouds and you have a great hot air balloon birthday card. What’s even better is you can personalize the card with the Labeler Alphabet stamp set.

Have fun and create you own Hot Air Balloon Birthday Cards. I would love to hear from you, please leave a comment in the comment section.

Product List

Lift Me Up Clear-Mount Bundle [144712]	Labeler Alphabet Photopolymer Stamp Set [141936]	Watermelon Wonder Classic Stampin’ Pad [138323]	Versamark Pad [102283]	Smoky Slate 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [131202]	Watermelon Wonder 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock [138334]
Calypso Coral 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [122925]	Pumpkin Pie 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [105117]	Night Of Navy 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [100867]	Mint Macaron 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock [138337]	Whisper White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [100730]	Peekaboo Peach 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock [141417]
Early Espresso 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [119686]	Outdoor Adventures Framelits Dies [141480]	Up & Away Thinlits Dies [142748]	White Stampin’ Emboss Powder [109132]

Christmas Songs Help Create Great Christmas Cards

Posted on December 19, 2016 by Karen GilbertDecember 19, 2016

Christmas Songs Are Inspiration To Create Christmas Cards

Have you ever used Christmas songs as inspiration to create Christmas cards? Often you will find snippets of words that are part of a song such as the “Tidings of Comfort and Joy”. These words are part of the Christmas song, “God, Rest You Merry Gentlemen”. I have seen stamps that use “Silent Night”, “Joy to the World”, “Star of Wonder, Star of Night”, and the list can go on. These song titles are a great jumping off point when you have a creative fog.

Of course, these cards can be simple of elegant as the sayings can stand on their own. The card I created is simple and yet elegant, because I want the saying to be the focal point.

Recipe

Stamps: Christmas Pines, Holly Jolly Greetings.

Ink/Markers: Emerald Envy, Real Red, VersaMark Whisper White Craft.

Paper: Crumb Cake, Soft Suede, Very Vanilla, Vellum, Gold Foil.

Accessories: Big Shot, Lucky Stars Embossing Folder, Stitched Shapes Framelits, Layering Circle Framelits, Gold Embossing Powder, Gold 5/8” Satin Ribbon.

A Few Details

To provide texture, emboss the Vellum cardstock with the Lucky Stars Embossing Folder. Add more interest by stamping the snowflake stamp from the Holly Jolly Greetings stamp set inked with Whisper White Craft ink.

To adhere the Vellum cardstock to the Soft Suede panel, position glue dots in inconspicuous places such as behind the stamped or embossed images. A good place for the glue dots is behind the stamped circle panel.

The Holly and Berries image adds a touch of colour. Markers are great when you want to add multiple colours to one stamp. Colour the holly leaves image with Emerald Envy and the berries with Real Red. Don’t forget to “huff” on your stamp before you stamp the image on the cardstock. This technique keeps the ink on the stamp moist.

Add the Gold Satin Ribbon to provide the touch of elegance.

Have you used words from Christmas Songs as inspiration for your cards? Leave a comment to let me know. If you have a question, about this card or any others on my blog, please leave a comment and I will answer you.

Product List

Christmas Pines Photopolymer Stamp Set [142049]	Holly Jolly Greetings Clear-Mount Stamp Set [139882]	Versamark Pad [102283]	Whisper White Craft Stampin’ Pad [101731]	Real Red & Crumb Cake Stampin’ Write Markers [141973]	2016-2018 In Color Stampin’ Write Markers [141393]
Crumb Cake 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [120953]	Soft Suede 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [115318]	Vellum 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [101856]	Lucky Stars Textured Impressions Embossing Folders [135817]	Stitched Shapes Framelits Dies [145372]	Layering Circle Framelits Dies [141705]
Gold 5/8″ Satin Ribbon [134547]	Gold Stampin’ Emboss Powder [109129]

New 2017 Occasions Catalogue Packed With New Products

Posted on December 10, 2016 by Karen GilbertDecember 10, 2016

The new 2017 Occasions Catalogue is coming soon!.

The new 2017 Occasions catalogue is on the horizon, excitement in in the air. New products appear on every page and the creative mind starts working.

The best part is that Sale-a-Bration is also coming.

So, I decided to take a break from creating Christmas cards and create a birthday card with one of the new product suites. All the products in the Party Animal Suite coordinate and that is the main feature that I like about Stampin’ Up!.

This Birthday Card is for my Granddaughter’s 10th birthday. December is heavy on birthdays, so I will be creating a few.

Recipe

Stamps: Balloon Adventures.

Ink/Markers: Emerald Envy, Pacific Point, Crushed Curry.

Paper: Whisper White, Pacific Point, Emerald Envy, Party Animal Designer Series Paper.

Accessories: Big Shot, Balloon Pop-Up Thinlits, Emerald Envy 1/8” Taffeta Ribbon, Party Animal Embellishments.

The Balloon Pop-Up Thinlits Dies feature a Tag Topper and a stand that you can use on a gift. Sweet! The other element I like about the thinlit set is the ability to use the pop-up die as an element on the card front. You don’t have to use it as a pop-up inside the card. The other thinlits allow your imagine to soar as you mix and match the stamp set and dies.

Before, I close, I want to remind you of Good-bye 2016 and Hello Sale that is currently happening. This sale has lots of retiring products from the 2016 Holiday Catalogue as well as items from the Clearance Rack.

Click on this link to go the by ONLINE Store to see the items on the sale. If you live in Canada, you can place an order from me.

You can start to order from the 2017 new occasions catalogue on January 4, 2017. That’s not too far away.

Product List

Balloon Adventures Photopolymer Bundle [144708]	Emerald Envy Classic Stampin’ Pad [141396]	Pacific Point Classic Stampin’ Pad [126951]	Crushed Curry Classic Stampin’ Pad [131173]	Pacific Point 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [111350]	Emerald Envy 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock [141415]
Whisper White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [100730]	Party Animal Designer Series Paper [142738]	Balloon Pop-Up Thinlits Dies [142753]	Ribbon Taffeta 1/8″ (3.2 Mm) Emerald Envy [142742]	Party Animal Embellishments [142775]

Watercoloring a Singing Merry Mouse – Create a Christmas Card

Posted on December 7, 2016 by Karen GilbertDecember 7, 2016

Watercoloring a Singing Merry Mouse For Christmas

Create a cute Christmas Card by watercoloring a singing Merry Mouse. This watercoloring method is easy to create, but a little messy. You can use this technique for card backgrounds and no two backgrounds will turn out the same.

I fell in love with this stamp set from the 2017 Holiday Catalogue. There are 3 different images depicting these adorable mice. Not that I am a huge fan of live mice. This stamp is part of the Good-bye 2016, Hello Sale. Click the link to my ONLINE STORE

Recipe

Stamps: Merry Mice.

Ink/Markers: Black StazOn, Real Red, Marina Mist, Pear Pizzazz.

Paper: Shimmery White, Real Red, Smoky Slate.

Accessories: Big Shot, Holly Textured Impression Embossing Folder, Watercolor Pencils, Blender Pens, Red Ribbon, Metallics Sequin Assortment, Clear Block F, Spritzer.

How to Create the Watercolor Background

Choose your ink colors, and cardstock. I prefer to use watercolor paper or Shimmery White cardstock. I have used Whisper White cardstock, but it will pill if you add too much ink and water.
Use one of your Clear Blocks to stamp the watercolor on the cardstock. The size of your block will depend on the size of your paper and the look you want to achieve.
Use an Aqua Painter and ink or a marker and color on the clear block. This background has 2 colors. The Marina Mist is on the top portion and the Pear Pizzazz ink on the bottom. Try not to mix the colors too much.
Spritz the block with water using a spritzer. I found that the easiest way to transfer the ink to the cardstock, is to leave the inked block on your work surface and lay your cardstock on the block. Gently press the cardstock into the ink and remove quickly.
You will be surprised at the outcome. This type of watercoloring is not meant to be neat and tidy. There could be blotches which adds to the uniqueness.
Dry naturally or use your Heat tool. Once the ink is dry, stamp your image using StazOn ink.

Stamp another image on Shimmery White card and color with the new Watercolor Pencil Crayons (available January 4th, 2017). Fussy cut this image and layer on top of the original image with dimensionals. The will cause the image to be raised and give a 3-D appearance.

Add a few embellishments from the Metallics Sequin Assortment to add some pizzaz.

Now it’s your turn to create a Christmas card by watercoloring a singing Merry Mouse.

Product List

Merry Mice Clear-Mount Stamp Set [142145]	Merry Mice Wood-Mount Stamp Set [142142]	Whisper White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [100730]	Smoky Slate 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [131202]	Real Red 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [102482]	Jet Black Stazon Ink Pad [101406]
Real Red Classic Stampin’ Pad [126949]	Pear Pizzazz Classic Stampin’ Pad [131180]	Marina Mist Classic Stampin’ Pad [126962]	Blender Pens [102845]	Holly Textured Impressions Embossing Folder [141634]	Metallics Sequin Assortment [138390]
Stampin’ Spritzer [126185]	Clear Block F [118483]

Three Christmas Mice Deck the Halls – Create a Christmas Card

Posted on December 3, 2016 by Karen GilbertDecember 3, 2016

Three Christmas Mice Deck The Halls

Why not have three Christmas Mice Deck the halls? These cute little mice can hardly wait to decorate for Christmas. You can join in the fun and check out the Year-End Closeout Sale. Here’s a hint…the Merry Mice stamp set is on the list and many more stamp sets are on the list.

Before I give you the details on the Goodbye Sale, I want to give you details on the card. I used a new product from the 2017 Occasions catalogue on this card. Can you guess which one is the new product?

Recipe

Stamps: Merry Mice.

Ink/Markers: Black StazOn, Real Red, Smoky Slate.

Paper: Whisper White, Smoky Slate, Real Red.

Accessories: Big Shot, Cable Knit Dynamic Textured Impression Embossing Folder, Watercolor Pencils, Blender Pens.

The Watercolor Pencils will be available for order on January 4, 2017

This card is watercoloured using the new Watercolor Pencils in the 2017 Occasions Catalogue. They are great to use and you can use them with your Blender Pens which have seen very little use lately.

The one thing to remember is use StazOn ink when stamping the images because this ink will not smear when you use water with it. Yes, you will need to clean your stamps right away and if your stamps are photopolymer, you cannot use the StazOn Cleaner. Another reason to clean the stamps right away.And yes, the ink will stain the stamps, however, it will not affect the stamped images.

Ok, here is the deal with the 2016 Close Out Sale

• Sale runs December 2s, 2016t to January 3, 2017.
• All products and the discounts can be found on my ONLINE STORE.
• Add year-end closeout items to all types of orders.
• Clearance Rack items are available while supplies last.
• At the end of the sale, some products may remain on the Clearance Rack.
•Any inventory items will discounted through January 3, beginning
January 4, they will be available at the regular price.

Retiring Holiday Items

•Rules for Retiring products:
• Retiring stamp sets will be available until December 21.
After that day, they will be only available while supplies last.
• Retiring accessories will be available while supplies last.
• Retiring items will only be available while supplies last.
- After January 3rd, 2017, retiring items will be unavailable.
- The lists will be updated Monday through Friday at 4:00 PM (MT).

• Year-End Closeouts are eligible for Stampin’ Rewards with qualifying orders.
• New demonstrators may add Year-End Closeouts items to their Starter Kit.
• Items and discounts may vary by market depending on inventory levels.

Note: You will notice that the bundles are on the discontinued list and yet, some of the stamps and die cuts may be carried over seperately. Bundles are only available in the current catalogue and will not be carried out.

Create this cute card with the three Christmas Mice decking the halls.

Hurry to the ONLINE STORE before items are sold-out.

Product List

Merry Mice Clear-Mount Stamp Set [142145]	Merry Mice Wood-Mount Stamp Set [142142]	Whisper White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [100730]	Smoky Slate 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [131202]	Real Red 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [102482]	Jet Black Stazon Ink Pad [101406]
Smoky Slate Classic Stampin’ Pad [131179]	Real Red Classic Stampin’ Pad [126949]	Cable Knit Dynamic Textured Impressions Embossing Folder [143537]	Blender Pens [102845]

Wine Bottle Wraps for the Hostess – Create an Elegant Gift

Posted on November 28, 2016 by Karen GilbertNovember 28, 2016

Wine Bottle Wraps for the Hostess

Give the wine love with wine bottle wraps for the hostess. How many of you have given your hostess a gift of wine? Did you think about the presentation? Wine is like food, it’s all about the presentation and what is pleasing to the eye.

The Online Extravaganza promotions last until 11:50 PM Mountain Time tonight. Don’t miss out! If you would like to WOW your hostess over the Christmas and Holiday season, then you really do need the Here’s to Cheer stamp set and matching Cheerful Tags Framelits Dies. Right now, today, the framelits are part of the Online Extravaganza and they are 30% off the regular price. The Holly Berry Builder Punch is 40% off and it one of tools used for the tags.

Recipe

Stamps: Here’s To Cheer.

Ink/Markers: Old Olive, Pear Pizzazz, Real Red, VersaMark.

Paper: Whisper White, Crumb Cake, Pear Pizzazz, Gold Foil. This is Christmas DSP.

Accessories: Big Shot, Cheerful Tags Framelits Dies, Gold Embossing Powder, 3/8” Silky Taffeta Ribbon Combo Pack (Cherry Cobbler), 1/8” Gold Ribbon, Holly Berry Builder Punch.

The wrap on the bottle uses the This is Christmas Specialty DSP. So often we are left with Designer Series Papers and it seems to multiply. This is a great way to use up that paper.

I continued to create a few more tags. Two of the tags can be used for any baking and/or food products that you may give as a gift. You can also use the 6: x 17″ Gusseted Cellophane bags as part of the wrap. These bags are food safe, so you don’t have to worry.

When you take a bottle of wine for a host or hostess this season, remember the wine bottle wraps.

Product List

Here’s To Cheers Clear-Mount Stamp Set [142101]	Cheerful Tags Framelits Dies [141838]	Whisper White 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [100730]	Gold Foil Sheets [132622]	Crumb Cake 8-1/2″ X 11″ Card Stock [120953]	Versamark Pad [102283]
Gold Stampin’ Emboss Powder [109129]	3/8″ (1 Cm) Ribbon Silky Taffeta Combo Pack [141989]	Gold 1/8″ Ribbon [134583]	Holly Berry Builder Punch [141843]