Tina's Creative Studio

8 x 8 Scrapbook Page

2012-01-28T13:55:00.002+10:30

Do you like your scrapbook pages to look clean anduncluttered? Perhaps you have a specialphotograph of a place or moment in time where you want the focus of attentionto be the photo rather than the embellishments on the page. Here’s a quick and easy page layout that canbe adapted to suit any photograph.

SUPPLIES:

STAMP SETS: Elementsof Style, Pocket Silhouettes

INK: Island Indigo, Peach Parfait, Old Olive, Pear Pizzazz,Rich Razzleberry

CARDSTOCK: WhisperWhite, Island Indigo, Pool Party

INSTRUCTIONS:

Start with a base of Whisper White cardstock cut to 8” x8”. Stamp the flourish from Elements ofStyle in the top left and right hand corners using your Island Indigo stamppad.

Along the bottom of the page, stamp the images from PocketSilhouettes with Peach Parfait, Old Olive, Pear Pizzazz and Rich Razzleberryink, overlapping the images.

Mat your photo with Pool Party cardstock and then IslandIndigo, leaving about 1/8” border around each mat.

You might like to write a title at the top of the page usingyour Stampin Write Markers.

If you would like to order any of the supplies used to makethis page, please don’t hesitate to call or email me.

Fifth Avenue Floral Bubbles Background

2012-01-27T10:00:00.000+10:30

Here's another sample of the Bubbles Background technique that uses one of my favourite stamp sets, Fifth Avenue Floral. I used 2 colours to create the background, and used masking to create the effect of some flowers appearing to be behind others.

Supplies Used:
Stamp Set: Fifth Avenue Floral
Cardstock: Perfect Plum, Basic Black, Whisper White
Ink: Elegant Eggplant and Island Indigo Classic re-inkers, StazOn Jet Black
Other: Bubbles

What do you think? Which is your favourite Bubbles Background technique card? Let me know by leaving a comment below. I think this one is my favourite.

More Bubbles Background cards

2012-01-26T10:41:00.001+10:30

I found another couple of cards I haven't shared yet, that use the Bubbles Background technique. I like a technique that can be used with different stamps and greetings to create cards for different occasions, and that is not too fussy or time consuming.

SUPPLIES:
Stamp Set: Pendant Park
Cardstock: Island Indigo, Basic Black, Whisper White
Ink: Island Indigo Classic Stampin re-inker, Garden Green and Cajun Craze Classic Stampin Pads
Other: Bubbles

Tomorrow I'll show another card that uses the same technique. Hopefully I'll upload a video on the technique that will be available to my newsletter subscribers soon!

It's Sale-a-Bration Time!

2012-01-25T12:37:00.003+10:30

Yes, it's on again, Stampin' Up's annual sale-a-bration promotion where you can earn fabulous stamp sets with every $100 purchased. This year there is also a lovely full sized (12" x 12") Designer Series Paper pack and a pack of ribbons and brads to choose from.

If you don't have a brochure yet, just send me an email and I'll get one for you, or you can download the PDF version HERE.

OK, the list of ways to get the FREE stamp sets and embellishments are:

Spend $100 on anything in the catalogues.
Host a qualifying workshop/party. Call or email me if you are interested.
Join as a Stampin Up Demonstrator and choose ANY stamp set in the catalogues for free. The Starter Kit is on special for $249 instead of $289, and contains products and business supplies to the value of $610 and can be viewed HERE.

So have a look at your wish list and see which is the best way for you to get the most FREE STUFF!

Sale-a-bration finishes 31st March, so don't delay!

Happy Stamping,
Tina

Upsy Daisy with Bubbles Background

2012-01-25T10:00:00.000+10:30

Back again!
Here's another sample using the Bubbles Background technique. This time the stamp set is Upsy Daisy, another one of my favourites.

It's pretty easy to make, and if you want to add embellishments, if that's your style, then go right ahead. Perhaps a butterfly could be added to the card to give it dimension... If you make up a card using this technique, let me know, I'd love to see it.

Don't forget, Sale-a-bration is on now, so be sure to take advantage of the freebies on offer.

Happy Stamping,

Inspired By Nature with Bubbles Background

2012-01-24T10:00:00.000+10:30

Today's card is another sample I made to show at the Stampin Up Regionals seminar in Adelaide. It uses the Bubbles Background technique and the Inspired by Nature stamp set, which is one of my favourites. The sentiment comes from the same set, but you could use a different sentiment if you like.

I'll be posting another card tomorrow, so be sure to come back then.

Would you like to make a set of general greeting cards using this technique? I'll be running this as a class in February, so book in today. Cost is $25 with all materials supplied, or $20 if you bring your own adhesives. What to bring: basic tool kit with trimmer, scissors, ruler, etc.

Happy Stamping,

Fabulous Florets

2012-01-23T10:00:00.000+10:30

Today's card is one the talented Tamara Conroy showed us how to make at our monthly get-together. It can be for any occasion, such as a Thinking of You card.

Supplies:
Stamp sets: Fabulous Florets (from the Summer Mini catalogue), Dot, Dot, Dot
Ink: Basic Black, Pretty in Pink, Old Olive (for sponging the leaves)
Cardstock: Pretty in Pink, Basic Black, Old Olive
Tools: Square Lattice embossing folder, Big Shot Die Cutting Machine, Little Leaves Sizzlets die, Scallop Trim Border punch
Accessories: Champagne Glass Glitter for the centres of the flowers, Dimensionals.

After cutting out the flowers we sponged the edges with Pretty in Pink ink, curling the petals a bit with our fingers. The same treatment was given to the leaves to add more depth.

All supplies are available from me, so if you would like to make this card yourself, send me an email and I'll order them for you.

Happy Stamping,
Tina

A Mistake that Turned out OK

2012-01-22T10:00:00.000+10:30

Last year I was asked to demonstrate a technique at the Stampin Up Regionals in Adelaide, so I decided to show the Bubbles Technique. I had to prepare a few samples using different stamps, and here is one of them.

I actually made a mistake on this one, then decided just to keep stamping the trees, and it turned out looking more like I had deliberately stamped it like that! Just goes to show a mistake can end up being a creative technique.

I've been making a video on the technique, as it's much easier to watch how it's done rather that explain it here or use still photos. When the video is finished and uploaded, I'll make it available to my Newsletter Subscribers. So if you're not on my Mailing List, be sure to sign up for it now!

Happy Stamping,

Elements of Style For You

2012-01-21T10:00:00.000+10:30

Today's card is a quick and easy card to make and can be adapted to suit any occasion or sentiment. This one was my contribution to our monthly get-together to share card ideas.

Supplies used:
Cardstock: Pretty in Pink, Rich Razzleberry, Whisper White
Ink: Versamark, Rich Razzleberry
Stamp Sets: Elements of Style, Pocket Silhouettes
Accessories: Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die, Big Shot Die Cutting Machine, Square Lattice Embossing Folder, 1" circle punch, 1 1/4" circle punch, Pink Pirouette Taffeta ribbon
Other: Spellbinder Nestabilities dies

Instructions:
1. Stamp the small leaves stamp from Pocket Silhouettes using Versamark all around the Pretty in Pink card front.
2. Cut a large label shape out of Rich Razzleberry cardstock using the Nestabilities die.
3. Cut a smaller label shape (I used the next size down) out of Whisper White cardstock.
4. Stamp the flower image from Elements of Style, using a Rich Razzleberry stamp pad onto the white label shape. Put the while label inside the Square Lattice embossing folder and run it through the Bigshot.
5. Stamp the sentiment onto a small piece of Whisper White cardstock and punch out with the 1" circle punch. Layer that onto a 1 1/4" circle of Rich Razzleberry.
6. Cut the small butterflies from a small piece of Rich Razzleberry using the Beautiful Wings Embosslits die in the Bigshot.
7. Assemble your card as in the photo, using dimensionals to raise the sentiment above the ribbon.

If you would like to order any of the supplies listed, please email me or leave a comment below and I'd be happy to get them for you.

Happy Stamping,
Tina

Summer Mini Catalogue

2012-01-20T10:00:00.000+10:30

The Summer mini catalogue is available now, and runs through to March 31. You can view it online HERE.

I have some copies on hand, so if you would like your FREE copy, just email me your details and I'll post one to you (Australian addresses only). If you like the Stitched Stockings stamp set and matching punch, please be aware that these will NOT be in the next "big" catalogue, which will be released in September. So if you would like them for your Christmas cards this year, make sure you order them soon.

Happy Stamping!

Tina

Male Birthday Card

2012-01-19T10:00:00.000+10:30

A lot of people, myself included, find it difficult to come up with a birthday card suitable for a male. We don't want something that is too feminine, and not something that is too dull either.

At our January get together, Jenny Soulsby showed us how to make this card, which she found on Splitcoast Stampers, by "barefootscrapper".

It's my husband's birthday next month, so for once I have a card already made up!

It showcases a great stamp set called The Open Sea, which is in the Summer Mini Catalogue, which means it's only available until 31 March 2012. Do you have the Summer Mini Catalogue yet? If you would like your free copy, please email me with your details and I'll post one for you.

Supplies Used (all Stampin Up):
Stamps: The Open Sea, Teeny Tiny Sentiments
Ink: Whisper White craft stamp pad, Stazon black ink
Cardstock: Basic Black, Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White
Tools: Ovals Dies and Big Shot Die Cutting Machine; Square Lattice embossing folder, Modern Label and Word Window punches.
Accessories: Cherry Cobbler/White Bakers Twine, Dimensionals, Stampin Pastels chalks.

I hope you like this card. If you've made a great male birthday card, send it to me and I'll post it on my blog!

Happy stamping!
Tina

Happy Anniversary!

2012-01-18T16:17:00.000+10:30

It was our 17th Wedding Anniversary last week, and here is a card I made for my husband. It was inspired by a similar card on Kristina's blog which is for a Valentine's Day card. I used up some bits and pieces from my stash, including some ancient CM paper.

The Stampin Up products I used here are:
Cardstock: Crumb Cake (formerly known as Kraft)
Ink: Early Espresso Classic Stamp pad, Rose Red for sponging around the squares
Accessories: Designer Series paper (retired), White gel pen, Rose Red marker, Dimensionals
Punches: Heart to Heart - only the small heart of the three, Scallop Edge Border
Non SU: Woodgrain stamp, CM paper.

What do you think? He loved it!

Would you like to make some quick and easy cards like this? Why not email me to book into a class today! Or if you would like to purchase any of the Stampin Up products listed, email me with your order!

Happy stamping,
Tina

Sale-a-bration is coming!

2012-01-17T14:30:00.000+10:30

Sale-a-bration is Stampin Up's promotion to kick off the new year with a bang. In previous years there have been 4 exclusive stamp sets for you to choose from for every $100 worth of supplies you order, this year there's a paper pack of 12 sheet of double sided 12" x 12" paper in some gorgeous designs, as well as a ribbon and brad pack.

Sale-a-bration starts January 24 and runs through to March 31.

If you would like me to send you a brochure, please email me or send me a message through Facebook.

Happy stamping!
Tina

Today is "Christmas Card Day"

2011-12-09T10:00:00.000+10:30

Today celebrates Sir Henry Cole, who marketed the first commercial Christmas Card in 1843.

It is also an ideal day to get your Christmas Cards mailed. Have you mailed your cards yet? Have you finished making your cards yet? If not, and you need about 10 quick and easy but elegant cards, why not book into my Stamp-a-Stack Christmas Card workshop tomorrow? There's a few places left, so call me or email me today!

Happy Stamping!
Tina

December Frenzy!

2011-12-02T15:28:00.001+10:30

Stampin Up's December Frenzy promotion means great savings for you! 30% to 50% off selected items. All items are limited quantity at the discounted price, and experience shows that they tend to sell out, so if you've had your eye on any of these, don't wait too long to place your order of you may miss out! They make great Christmas presents for you as well!

Item	Page	Description	Discount	Retail Price	Sale Price
120597	22	Welcome Christmas Clear-Mount Set	50%	$39.95	$19.98
121584	22	Welcome Christmas Wood-Mount Set	50%	$49.95	$24.98
117715	28	I {Heart} Hearts Wood-Mount Set	40%	$42.95	$25.77
121528	35	Got Treats Wood-Mount Set	40%	$40.95	$24.57
117699	42	Something Sweet Wood-Mount Set	40%	$44.95	$26.97
116686	46	For Everything Wood-Mount Set	40%	$47.95	$28.77
119163	67	Cottage Garden Wood-Mount Set	50%	$32.95	$16.48
121508	72	Every Moment Wood-Mount Set	40%	$31.95	$19.17
121480	74	Awash with Flowers Wood-Mount Set	40%	$71.95	$43.17
121522	75	Friends Never Fade Wood-Mount Set	50%	$31.95	$15.98
120618	75	Friends Never Fade Clear-Mount Set	40%	$25.95	$15.57
121600	75	Ornate Blossom Wood-Mount Set	40%	$19.95	$11.97
123551	88	Clearly For You Wood-Mount Set	40%	$47.95	$28.77
123848	96	Chloe Stampin Around Builder Wheel	40%	$9.95	$5.97
116911	126	Padded Envelopes (3)	40%	$6.50	$3.90
119263	138	Poppy Parade 1/2'' Stitched-Poly Ribbon	30%	$16.95	$11.87
119267	138	Blushing Bride 1/2'' Stitched-Poly Ribbon	30%	$16.95	$11.87
119731	143	Regals Flower Brads	30%	$16.95	$11.87
119730	143	Neutrals Flower Brads	30%	$16.95	$11.87
118762	146	Distressing Essentials	30%	$37.95	$26.57
103179	149	Craft & Rubber Scissors	30%	$37.95	$26.57
112531	149	Circle Scissor Plus Glass Mat	30%	$37.95	$26.57

You can download the flyer HERE.

Email me with your orders today!

Quick and Easy Christmas Card, take 2

2011-11-09T10:00:00.000+10:30

Today's card is similar to yesterday's, but in red and gold.

Cherry Cobbler card stock was used for the base of the card, and the same colour ink was used for the sentiment. The swirl has been embossed with Gold embossing powder, and the ornament is the same as on yesterday's card. Here she has also added a strip of embossed white on white, another elegant touch.

Both are gorgeous cards, which do you prefer? You may leave a comment below.

Quick and Easy Christmas Card

2011-11-08T10:00:00.000+10:30

Hi There!

How are your Christmas cards coming along? Here's another quick and easy one brought along by the talented and prolific card maker, Tamara Conroy.

I love how she has used the large swirl stamp from the Broque Motifs stamp set to create something to "hang" the ornament on. The ornament was punched from metallic gold paper using the Ornament Punch, and then the shape was put through the Big Shot machine in the Finial Press embossing folder. The sentiment is from the Many Merry Messages stamp set, and a few rhinestones were added to the swirls for a bit of bling. She used Whisper White and Garden Green card stock, and Garden Green stamp pad.

What do you think? I have another version of this, in red, which I'll post tomorrow.

Simple Christmas Card

2011-11-07T16:23:00.000+10:30

Here's another card shared by the talented Tamara Conroy at our October get-together.

Supplies needed:
Stamp Sets: Many Merry Messages (sentiment) and Autumn Days (pine cones)
Cardstock: Whisper White, Garden Green, Black
Ink: Early Espresso stamp pad, Early Espresso and Garden Green markers
Accessories: Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder, Big Shot Die Cutting Machine, 1-3/4" Scallop Circle, 1-3/8" and 1-1/2" Circle punches, ribbon. Border punch non-SU.

Another simple, yet elegant card that is quick and easy to make.

Guest Artist Tamara Conroy

2011-11-02T13:46:00.000+10:30

Hi There!

Sorry for the long delay between posting card images.

Today's card is one brought along by the lovely Tamara Conroy to our October card making get-together.

It's a simple design that is easy to duplicate and make lots of in a couple of hours. This is based on a similar design by Jane Mercer.

Supplies needed:
Stamp Sets: Contempo Christmas (sentiment) and Autumn Days (pine cones)
Cardstock: Whisper White, Garden Green, Black
Ink: Early Espresso stamp pad, Early Espresso and Garden Green markers
Accessories: Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder, Big Shot Die Cutting Machine, 1-3/4" Scallop Circle, 1-3/8" and 1-1/2" Circle punches, ribbon.

If you would like to make this card and need some supplies, please call or email me. This is also one of the cards you can make in a Christmas Class in my studio. I'll be running classes on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday afternoons through November. Bookings are essential, so please call or email me.

It's a Sale to Die For!

2011-11-02T13:11:00.000+10:30

During November, get 10 percent off select Big Shot dies. Use these exclusive dies to create fabulous shapes, embossing, and more!

If you would like to take advantage of these specials, please call or email me.

24 Hours until 12 Weeks of Christmas Ideas!

2011-10-04T13:00:00.005+10:30

Make sure you're on my newsletter mailing list to receive the special Subscribers Only series of emails from October 5 of ideas for cards, gifts and tags and packaging. Starts tomorrow!

Simply Stockings Christmas Promotion

2011-10-03T19:05:00.001+10:30

Put a little cheer in your stockings this Christmas with a brand new coordinating stamp set and punch. During October, purchase or earn for FREE by hosting a qualifying workshop!

Promotion Details: Purchase the Stitched Stocking Stamp Set and Stocking Tag Punch early – before the debut of the 2011 Summer Mini Catalogue. Stamp set: wood mount $53.95, clear mount $42.95, Punch: $33.95.

or
Host a $450 workshop, and receive the Stitched Stocking Stamp Set and Stocking Tag Punch for free.

12 Weeks of Christmas Project Ideas start next week!

2011-09-29T12:31:00.001+09:30

I'm currently working on getting the 12 Weeks of Christmas Project Ideas ready for next week.

This is a special Subscribers Only program where, starting from October 5, you will receive an email every week with a Christmas project idea. Each email will contain a picture of a project, along with the supplies used to make it and instructions. The projects for the first four weeks will be cards, then you will receive gift ideas for the next four weeks and then the final four projects will be tags and packaging.

If you are interested in receiving these free Christmas project ideas then please make sure you join my Mailing List by filling out the box on the right hand side of my blog.

These projects will not be posted to my blog, so make sure you don't miss out!

Happy stamping,

Had a blogging break...

2011-09-26T11:24:00.000+09:30

The hardest thing about keeping a blog is being consistent with posts. Scheduling posts in advance does help, but then sometimes the wheels fall off due to other commitments being more urgent.

Hopefully things will be back on track shortly...

Slider Card

2011-09-13T14:37:00.001+09:30

Hi again,

Here's the third in a series of cards I made in a class at a craft shop. It's called a Slider Card, which when pulled reveals the greeting inside.

A bit wonky...

Gift Card Holder Card

2011-09-12T10:00:00.001+09:30

Today's card is another that I learned how to make at a card class in a shop. It's a card that contains a gift card holder inside, so when you open it the gift card pops up. I probably should have put a gift card in it to show you how it works. This one I'm giving to my sister-in-law, whose birthday is this month.

This one has several layers of paper and is a bit bulky when closed.

Cut-work card

2011-09-11T10:00:00.000+09:30

I've been going through some of my cards that I made ages ago, and have decided to show some of them here on my blog. They don't all use Stampin Up supplies, as I learned how to do them in a class in a shop where we had to use their supplies.

Today's card has an inside that uses cut-work, where you download a template from the internet and cut it out to give a 3D effect. The front has a few beads and a dragon fly on it. This one I'm giving to my niece for her birthday next week.

I hope she likes it!

Stamping on Fabric

2011-09-10T14:24:00.000+09:30

Hi there!

Today's card has a piece of cotton fabric that has been coloured using distress inks and the the images have been stamped with StazOn. The stamps used are from the Inspired by Nature set, which is one of my favourites.

Something a bit different...

Third Scenic Card

2011-09-06T10:00:00.002+09:30

Today's card is the final one we made at a workshop a few weeks ago.

I think I might do a few more of these...

Anther Scenic Card

2011-09-05T10:00:00.001+09:30

Here's the second card we made that I'm calling a scenic card, as we are creating a scene using masking techniques, blending tools and inks, and then stamping over the top using Staz-On.

Let me know what you think by leaving a comment below.

Tomorrow I'll share the last card we made.

Trying a new technique

2011-09-04T09:57:00.000+09:30

I went to a card class a few weeks ago where we created 3 cards using blending tools and inks, using masking techniques and stamps to build a picture.

Today's card is the first one we made.

Tomorrow I'll share another...

Mini Starter Kit only $169

2011-09-02T15:58:00.000+09:30

During September, you can join the Stampin’ Up! family as a demonstrator for only $169! The limited-time mini Starter Kit-valued at over $310-comes with the high-quality products listed below:

$169 Mini Starter Kit

Easy Events Clear-Mount Set*
Pennant Parade Wood-Mount Set*
Basic Black Classic Stampin’ Pad
Old Olive Classic Stampin’ Pad
Pumpkin Pie Classic Stampin’ Pad
Real Red Classic Stampin’ Pad
A4 Smooth Card Stock Assortment
Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper*
Chocolate Chip 1/2″ Scallop Dots Ribbon*
Notes Cards (20)
Clear-Mount Block C
Blender Pen (1)
SNAIL Adhesive
Business supplies

*New to the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalogue
Or, if you want the full Starter Kit, you can get it 20 percent off during September only! That’s over $610 worth of premium Stampin’ Up! products and business supplies for just $231.20! See what’s included in the full Starter Kit here.

The New Catalogue is Here!

2011-09-01T10:00:00.000+09:30

Today is the day that the new 2011-2012 Idea Book and Catalogue goes live! If you would like to pick up a copy of the catalogue, the cost is $10, or if you would like me to post it to you it will cost $15. If you are on my mailing list you will also receive a gift certificate for $5 towards anything you want in the catalogue.

There's loads of fabulous new stamps and accessories, and some of the Big Shot dies (and the Big Shot itself) have come down in price! Contact me today to get your copy!

8x8 Scrapbook Page – Embossed Vellum Floral Border

2011-08-31T09:58:00.000+09:30

Here’s a simple border and coordinating embellishments for a quick and easy 8x8 scrapbook page.

SUPPLIES:

STAMPS: Fifth Avenue Floral (115796)

INK: Versamark (102283)

CARDSTOCK: Tempting Turquoise (108598), White Vellum Cardstock (106584)

ACCESSORIES: White Stampin’ Emboss Powder (109132), Heat Tool (106586), Daffodil Delight (119677) and Pumpkin Pie (105115) Stampin’ Write Markers, SNAIL adhesive (104332)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Create a page base with a piece of Tempting Turquoise cardstock measuring 8” x 8”.
Cut a piece of vellum cardstock 2” x 8”. Stamp the flower stamp with Versamark along the strip of vellum, overlapping the flowers slightly. Sprinkle white embossing powder on the stamped images and heat with the heat tool. Cut around the edges of the flowers with scissors as shown in the photo. Attach to the top of the page with SNAIL.
Stamp the other flowers with Versamark onto another piece of vellum, and emboss with white embossing powder. Colour the back of these flowers using the markers, then cut out the flowers. Attach to the corners of the page with SNAIL.

This page layout is so adaptable for any occasion by using different flower stamps, and you could colour the top border with markers if you wish.

Have you signed up for my Mailing List yet?

2011-08-30T12:12:00.000+09:30

Hi there,

I'm changing my newsletter broadcasting service over to one with more features that will allow me to send you more tutorials and project ideas on a regular basis. So now is the best time to sign up for my mailing list, so you will get all the benefits!

I'm preparing my September newsletter, which is due to go out on Tuesday 6th September, so be sure to sign up before then! Just put your name and email address in the sign-up box on the side-bar and click on the submit button to get started. As my thank you for signing up, you will automatically receive a free card tutorial.

If you are already on my old mailing list, you will still receive the September newsletter from the old broadcasting service, with instructions on how to change over to the new list.

Happy stamping!

Terrific Tri-Shutter Card

2011-08-29T10:00:00.005+09:30

Today's card is the third card we made at our monthly card making get-together, and is designed by the super talented Tamara Conroy. After seeing the work of art she created for her grandson's birthday, I asked Tamara if we could make one at our next get-together.

So here is the result - what do you think?

She made it a bit simpler in design so that Jenny and I could handle it as our first attempt at a Tri-Shutter card. I think I'll have to make more of these, as now I know how they are made, it's not that hard to come up with other designs. She did say to be careful not to have too many layers of cardstock on the middle sections as it makes it too bulky and too hard to fold.

Sneak Peak from the new Catalogue

2011-08-28T10:00:00.000+09:30

Here's a card designed by Jenny Soulsby for our monthly card making get-together. This uses stamps from a brand new set from the 2011-2012 Idea Book and Catalogue. The Top Note Die was used in the Big Shot to create the panel onto which the bird in holly was stamped.

I coloured in the image with a blender pen and inks, but you could use watercolour pencils, watercolour crayons, or even pastels (chalk) to give different looks.

Clean and Simple Greenhouse Garden

2011-08-27T10:00:00.003+09:30

Today's card is what could be called "Clean and Simple" as it doesn't have lots of embellishments or layers. The stamp set used for the flowers is Greenhouse Garden and the colours used are Marina Mist and Pacific Point. This was my contribution for our monthly card making get-together. Tomorrow I'll show a design from Jenny Soulsby.

Double Twisted Easel Card with a Sneak Peak

2011-08-26T10:00:00.003+09:30

Hi there!

Today's card is another Double Twisted Easel card, but this time it has a sneak peak at a new product available to order from September 1. Can you guess what it is? Leave a comment below and the first correct guess will win a $5 voucher towards any purchase from the new Idea Book and Catalogue!

Have fun!

Email problems?

2011-08-25T10:32:00.000+09:30

Have you been trying to email me at tina@tinascreativestudio.com? I received a phone call yesterday from someone trying to book into a class. I'm so sorry that my email address hasn't been working, I'll try to fix it as soon as possible. I'm not sure why it doesn't work, are there any tech savvy people out there that can help? I created the above email address to tie in with my domain name.

Anyway, in the meantime, I've just created a gmail account that I will use until I sort this out. So if you would like to learn how to make any of the recent cards I've put up on my blog, you can email me at this address.

New Catalogue Available!

2011-08-24T10:00:00.000+09:30

The new Stampin Up Idea Book and Catalogue for 2011-2012 is now available. Look at the boxes just outside my studio - containing catalogues and my pre-order of new products.

And look what was inside the biggest box...

If you would like a catalogue you can pick one up from me. They normally sell for $10, but ask me how you can get one for free!

Butterfly Spinner Card

2011-08-23T10:00:00.000+09:30

These always get a reaction when you show people how the butterfly spins around and moves along the card.

The rest of the card has been kept fairly simple, to keep the focal point as the spinning butterfly. To get the perfect channel for the mechanism to work, you really need the Word Window punch. I'll be teaching this at a class on September 3, so if you'd like to make this card, email me to book your place!

Another Double Pocket card

2011-08-22T10:00:00.003+09:30

Back again!

Today's card is a variation from yesterday, in that it has been resized to fit the standard Australian A5 card. The patterned paper is retired, but the stamps used are in the current Stampin Up Catalogue.

If you would like to learn how to make these pocket cards, please email me to book into one of my classes!

Double Pocket Cards - Revisited

2011-08-21T10:00:00.004+09:30

Today's card is a re-visit of a card I've done before, with a slight variation. I had sold some cards to some of the ladies in my aquarobics group, and had requests for more of the same cards. You'll see these over the next couple of days.

This first one is a double pocket card, and I tried to remember how I did the original one, and then made this one up. It turns out the original didn't have the paper pocket attached to a card base, and was folded a bit differently.

Tomorrow I'll show you another version of this card, re-sized to fit an Australian A5 size card.

The Beautiful Wings Embosslits die was used with the Big Shot machine to make the butterflies, and the paper is retired.

Tutorial - CD Gift Box

2011-08-20T10:00:00.000+09:30

When you are giving a CD as a gift for a birthday or other special occasion, why not make an attractive gift box for it. You can decorate the box to suit the occasion.

SUPPLIES:

STAMPS: So Swirly Jumbo Wheel (109683)

INK: Rich Razzleberry (115658), Old Olive (102277), Pumpkin Pie (105216), Versamark (102283)

CARDSTOCK: Razzleberry (119981), Old Olive (106576), Pumpkin Pie (108601), Very Vanilla (106550)

ACCESSORIES: Stampin Around Jumbo Handle (103661),Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die (118138), Petals-A-Plenty Textured Impression Embossing Folder (116824), Big Shot Die Cutting Machine (113439),Eyelet Border Punch (119853), Sticky Strip (104294), Stampin Dimensionals (104430), Sponge Daubers (102892)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cut a piece of Rich Razzleberry cardstock to measure 10 ½” x 5 ¾”. Score at 5” and 5 ½” on the long side. This forms the front flap and back of the box.

2. Cut a piece of Old Olive cardstock to measure 7 ¾” x 5 ¾”. Score at ½” and 1” from both ends of the short sides and from the edge of one of the long sides. This forms the pocket that goes inside the folded piece of Rich Razzleberry cardstock. See sketch below.

3. Cut the 2 corners that have the double score lines and remove.

4. Cut a piece away from the top long edge so that when the box is put together you can see the CD inside.

5. Now you can decorate the pocket if you wish. I used the So Swirly Wheel inked with Versamark.

6. Fold the 2 sides in at the score lines and attach Sticky Strip to the outer edges. Fold the bottom at the score lines and attach Sticky Strip to the outer fold. Attach to the bottom of the Rich Razzleberry piece with the corners and edges lined up.

7. Now decorate the front flap. Here I used a 5 ½” x 4 ½” piece of Very Vanilla cardstock that has been embossed with the Petals-A-Plenty embossing folder. Once embossed I used 3 daubers to apply Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive and Pumpkin Pie ink from the Classic Stampin Pads to the flowers in a pattern. The edges have been sponged with Rich Razzleberry ink.

8. To make the embossed piece fit the front flap, cut a piece about 1” from the bottom – you will attach this to the bottom of the flap and the larger piece to the top of the flap, leaving a gap of about ½”.

9. This will be covered with a 5 ¾” x 1 ½” strip of Old Olive cardstock that has been punched along both long edges with the Eyelet Border punch. Sponge the edges with Old Olive ink.

10. Use the Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die to create butterflies in Pumpkin Pie cardstock, sponge the edges with Pumpkin Pie ink and attach to the front of the box with Dimensionals.

Lattice card

2011-08-19T10:00:00.001+09:30

Hi there!

Today's card is a pretty one that's a little bit fiddly, but will impress anyone you give it to. It's called a lattice card, where a window is cut out of the front of the card using a die in your die cutting machine, and strips of card, cut to about 1/4" wide are criss-crossed and woven over the window opening and secured on the back of the card with tape or glue. Some punches were used to make the flowers, and the Scallop Oval punch was used for the mat underneath the sentiment. Some Dazzling Diamonds Glitter was used as a bit of bling.

If you would like to make this card, please let me know and I'll include it in my next class!

Owl Thank You

2011-08-18T10:00:00.000+09:30

Here's a quick and easy card to make. The cute owl is from the Fox and Friends stamp set, and the panel is cut with the Top Note Die in the Big Shot.

A cuttlebug folder has been used on the background panel. This card was designed by the lovely Heather Ford, the 4th member of our monthly get-together card making group.

Embossed Glossy Butterfly

2011-08-17T10:00:00.001+09:30

Hi there!

I'm going to find it hard to part with this butterfly stamp after the end of August, when it retires from the Stampin Up catalogue.

Today's card is one designed by the lovely Jenny Soulsby, and one we made at one of our monthly get-togethers. It also uses a stamp from the Bliss stamp set, which was available in the last Sale-A-Bration promotion. We stamped the flourish image onto White Glossy cardstock using Versamark ink, and then embossed it with gold embossing powder. The cardstock was then sponged with different colours (can't remember which ones). The butterfly was stamped onto Not Quite Navy cardstock in Versamark, then embossed with silver embossing powder, and cut out to mount onto the card with foam spots. The Eyelet border punch was used to make the strip of brushed gold cardstock.

I'm just wondering if it needs anything else.... mmm.... do you have any suggestions? If so, please leave a comment below.

Balloon card

2011-08-16T10:00:00.016+09:30

Today's card uses a stamp from the set A Little Treat, which is really designed to be used with the Sweet Treat cups which you add to a card and put lollies or other yummy goodies inside. This card is another one designed by the talented Tamara Conroy, and is one we made at one of our monthly get-togethers.

The stamp is inked using Stampin Up's brush markers directly on to the rubber, to give the different colours. I also love the finishing touches to the inside of the card. A shape cut with the Top Note Die in the Big Shot used on the front of the card, and the clouds are created by cutting masks with the scalloped oval and circle punches, and sponging around them with Bashful Blue ink.

If you would like to order any of the supplies used to make this card, please email me.

Faux Bleach Butterfly

2011-08-15T10:00:00.000+09:30

Today's card uses the Faux Bleach technique to create the white-ish flowers on the card. The stamps used are Upsy Daisy, and the butterfly is All-A-Flutter. The butterfly stamp will be retiring at the end of August, so if you want one, you'll need to order it now.

I've also used alcohol inks to create the background layers, but you could achieve a similar look using regular die-based inks applied with a little rubbing alcohol on a felt pad or cotton ball.

I'm please with how this turned out, what do you think?

Scallop Punch Flower

2011-08-14T10:00:00.000+09:30

Today's card is a very simple design, as the focal point is the flower which has been made with several layers of patterned paper punched scallop circles. The flourish is from the Elements of Style stamp set and the sentiment is from that old faithful stamp set, Sincere Salutations.

I decorated the inside of the card using the same stamp from Elements of Style:

And here's a closer look at the flower:

If you'd like me to show you how to make this flower, let me know by leaving a comment below.

Treat Box Cards

2011-08-13T10:00:00.000+09:30

Hi there!

These treat box cards make a great gift for any occasion, and you can adjust the size of the box part to hold whatever treats you like, or tea-light candles. At the recent Papercraft fair I had them filled with M&Ms, which seemed to disappear at the end of the fair!

This version opens like a card so you can write your greeting inside.

This version has been sealed shut to form a pocket, then a tag is inserted into the pocket to write a greeting on it.

If you would like to learn how to make these, please email me to book into the next class.

Enjoy!

Box Arm Card

2011-08-12T10:00:00.002+09:30

Today's card is another that I'll be teaching in card making classes in my studio, and it's called a Box Arm Card. It folds flat for putting into a standard envelope, and when you stand it up you pull out the "arms" to help make the stand. Here's the card with the arms nearly closed:

Here's the card with the arms extended:

Here's a view from above, so you can see the arms:

And here's another variation:

I learned the technique in one of Helen's fabulous card making classes, and I've since found a tutorial online by Emma Fewkes.

The butterfly was created using the Beautiful Butterflies die in the Big Shot die cutting machine, which was then put into Stampin Up's Finial Press embossing folder and put through the Big Shot again to emboss it.

Center Stair Step Card

2011-08-11T10:00:00.002+09:30

Hi there!

Thank you to everyone who visited our stall at the SA Papercraft Fair last Sunday, and thank you for the kind comments on my cards on display.

Today's card is one that was on display, and is called a Center Stair Step Card. It's easy to make the actual card base, and then you can decorate it to suit the occasion. This one would be suitable for a man's birthday or for Father's Day.

I'm teaching this card at a few classes this month, so if you are in the Adelaide area and would like to make this card, please let me know by leaving a comment below.

Enjoy!

Faux Distressed Floral

2011-08-10T10:00:00.002+09:30

Ever since I saw Darlene's video on making the distress ink look using Stampin Up die based inks, I thought I must try that myself. I've been going to card making classes where they often use distress inks, but I didn't think of trying the technique with Stampin Up inks.

This card uses one of my favourite stamp sets, Fifth Avenue Floral for the flowers. The background is created on a piece of Whisper White cardstock and uses Not Quite Navy and Old Olive inks applied with foam applicator tools. The flowers and leaves were stamped onto another piece of Whisper White cardstock with Versamark, and embossed with white embossing powder. Then the flowers were coloured using So Saffron and Pumpkin Pie ink and the leaves with Old Olive. The leaves are from a non-Stampin Up set. Once everything was dry I stamped the greeting from the Baroque Motifs set using Not Quite Navy and then drew stitching around the edges with the white gel pen.

I'm quite happy with the way this card turned out, and will be using this technique more often in the future.

Sense of Time - Time is Running Out!

2011-08-09T10:00:00.000+09:30

Today's card is a variation on the Side-Step card, and is also known as a Dresser Card. I've used the Sanded Background stamp, which is retiring at the end of August, and the clock is from the Sense of Time stamp set, which is also retiring at the end of August.

If you would like to order these stamps, you will need to do so soon, as some things on the Retired list have already sold out! Email me to place your order.

I know how hard it is to make cards for the men in your life, so this one would be suitable. Let me know if you would like to make this card in a class!

Manhattan Flower Embossing Folder

2011-08-08T10:00:00.000+09:30

A while ago I recorded a video making this card, which uses the Manhattan Flower embossing folder from Stampin Up. Well, I tried recording a video, but I didn't like the way it turned out, and I made too many mistakes on it. Never mind, I will get the hang of making videos one day, and then I'll share them with you!

Can you guess how I coloured the main panel? I used Whisper White cardstock to start with, then applied Rose Red ink. But how did I apply it and what did I use to apply it with?

I'll answer that question later this week. If you like to take a guess, leave a comment with your name below. I'll even have a little gift if you guess correctly!

Cheers To You

2011-08-07T10:00:00.004+09:30

Today's card uses another retiring stamp set: Cheers To You. This card is called an Awning card, as at the top it has a piece that looks like a shop awning. It's made using shapes cut out with the Word Window punch, laid side by side on a backing strip of paper to hold them together. It's a bit hard to see in the photo, but the awning does stick out a bit on the card. Also, the drinks are not floating, but actually sit on a shelf that also sticks out of the card. I coloured the drinks using the Stampin Write Markers, then applied a bit of glue and Dazzling Diamonds Glitter.

Email me if you would like to order this set, it's only available as a wood mount set, and it costs $31.95. After August 31 it will no longer be available.

Retiring Butterfly Stamp

2011-08-06T10:00:00.001+09:30

Today's card uses the lovely All a Flutter butterfly stamp, which unfortunately is not in the new 2011-12 Stampin Up Idea Book and Catalogue. So it will be "retired" at the end of this month. I'm going to miss this one, as I've used it so many times.

The background is created by stamping a music stamp repeatedly on the panel, which is sponged to give it a distressed look. The middle butterfly has been stamped twice - once on the background and again on a scrap piece of paper and cut out, coloured and layered on top of the background image.

Black Magic or Chalk Board?

2011-08-05T10:00:00.002+09:30

Today's card started out as a Chalk Board Technique card, but ended up as a Black Magic Technique card.

The flowers were stamped with white craft ink onto black card, and then initially coloured with Stampin Pastels, which are chalks, giving a soft look. After the card sat in my box for a while I decided it needed a lift so I went over the main image with watercolour pencils to make the colours stronger, then used the white gel pen around the edges. I added some white dots to the background images as well.

SA Papercraft Fair this Sunday, August 7

2011-08-04T10:00:00.000+09:30

Just a quick reminder for all you Adelaide card makers and scrapbookers that the SA Papercraft Fair is on again this Sunday, August 7 at the Marion Leisure and Fitness Centre, Oaklands Road, Morphettville. It opens at 9.00 am and finishes at 3.00 pm. Entry is $5. I'll be there on the Stampin Up Stall, so come along and say hi! I'll have some retired products for sale at bargain prices, and you may even get a sneak peak at the new Idea Book and Catalogue! See you there!

Another Because I Care card

2011-08-03T10:00:00.007+09:30

Hi there!

Today's card is another one using the Hydrangea stamp from the Because I Care stamp set. This set is one of the free stamp sets you can get for hosting a workshop/party (whether it be in the home or a catalogue party) or for placing an order of at least $300. It's also on the Last Chance List as it will be retiring at the end of August 2011.

This is another design by the very talented Tamara Conroy. We made this a while ago in our monthly get-together, and I gave it to my mum for Mother's Day. I had to ask her if I could borrow it to photograph it as I had forgotten to do so before I gave it to her! It's nice to know she keeps the cards I make...

This card uses some basic masking and sponging techniques to add colour. The swirly vine is from the Vintage Vogue stamp set and the music stamp is not by Stampin Up.

Double Embossed Because I Care

2011-08-02T10:00:00.000+09:30

I love the hydrangea flower in the hostess set Because I Care, because it can be coloured in different ways to give different effects. This card is by guest artist Tamara Conroy, and uses a Double Embossing technique.

I also love how she has created the background using the flourish stamp from the Elements of Style set, which she has stamped with Versamark, embossed with white embossing powder, and sponged with Soft Suede ink.

Because I Care is a hostess stamp set in the current Idea Book and Catalogue, which finishes at the end of this month.

The Last Chance List is Here

2011-08-01T10:15:00.001+09:30

Well, it's that time of year again, when we say goodbye to some stamps and accessories to make way for some gorgeous new ones.

You can download the list HERE. You will need to have the catalogue handy and refer to the page numbers to see which stamps and accessories are going. Some that I have that are going are: Sanded (background), Eastern Blooms, Sense of Time, Garden Whimsy and Priceless.

Some items are discounted by up to 40%, so you'd better be quick as they will be while stocks last. Email me to place your order.

Guest Artist - Tamara Conroy

2011-08-01T10:00:00.004+09:30

Tamara is a very talented card maker, and has come up with another card that just makes you go: "WOW!" She made this one for her grandson's birthday. She's done a fair bit of Punch Art on it, using the Owl Punch as well as others. Isn't it just gorgeous! I hurredly photographed this as she was leaving our monthly get together, so I apologise for the blurry photos. The basic card construction is called a Tri-Shutter card.

Guest Artist - Jenny Soulsby

2011-07-31T10:00:00.000+09:30

Here's a card made by my friend Jenny, who showed it at our recent card making get together. It's a great Punch Art card using Stampin Up's punches. She got the idea from Danni Holland, Stampin Up demonstrator, who shared it on the Demonstrators forum. I think we'll be making this one at our next get-together.

Isn't it cute! The card base is another Side-Step card, which is very popular at the moment.

Just Believe with Shimmer Paint

2011-07-30T10:00:00.000+09:30

Hi there!

Today's card uses the versatile stamp set Just Believe, which has been stamped on to the Concord Crush card stock with Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint. The paint was applied directly to the rubber stamp with a dauber each time. Once dried, I used a white gel pen to add the highlights. A bit of bling (Dazzling Diamonds Glitter) was added to the flowers on the "For You" panel.

Sesame Street Birthday Card

2011-07-29T10:00:00.001+09:30

This is a fun card for kids' birthdays - and is made with punches. I made this a while ago, but when I found out that this week was the anniversary of the debut of the Sesame Street character, Bert, I thought I would share this card. I'm sure it would be easy to make a punch art card of Bert as well...

Gift With Purchase Promotion ends this week

2011-07-28T10:00:00.002+09:30

Just a reminder if you want to take advantage of this promotion that it ends on July 31. Email me with your order today!

Another Bird Punch Flower

2011-07-27T10:00:00.002+09:30

I thought I would show another card with a flower made using the Two-Step Bird punch. I made this a while ago now, and I think I have shared it previously in my newsletter. I believe the original artist was Ann Fitzgerald.

If you would like to learn how to make this card, and you're in the Marion area, why not book into a class? Email me to let me know if you are interested.

Tulips from a Bird Punch!

2011-07-26T10:00:00.001+09:30

Would you believe you could make tulips from the Two-Step Bird Punch? That's what Guest Artist Tamara Conroy has done in this lovely card.

I photographed this in a bit of a rush as she was leaving, so it's not in it's best light. She used 3 of the wing shapes for each flower, and the leaf branch that is also part of the Bird punch. The vase is actually the Christmas Ornament punch with a bit trimmed off the pointy end. Isn't that clever? I also love the panel of embossed foil using the Finial Press embossing folder in the Big Shot machine.

Guest Artist - Tamara Conroy

2011-07-25T10:00:00.002+09:30

I thought it might be an idea to post a card from one of my stamping friends who I meet with on a monthly basis to share card and other project ideas with. Tamara makes the most gorgeous cards - here is one she brought to show last week:

Isn't this lovely? The birds are punched out with the Two-Step Bird punch, the reeds are from the Inspired by Nature stamp set, and she has used the Top Note die in the Big Shot machine to cut the top panel. Tamara doesn't have a blog (what a shame!) or gallery anywhere, so here is where I'll be showcasing some of her wonderful creations.

Tomorrow I'll show another one of her creations using the Bird punch.

Split Negative Christmas Cards

2011-07-24T10:00:00.003+09:30

Continuing on with the Christmas theme, here's a way of creating two cards at the same time which are the same, but different. The technique here is called Split Negative, and you need two colours of embossing powder to match 2 colours of card stock.

The Christmas Tree stamp from the Snow Swirled stamp set has been stamped twice with Versamark ink, on Whisper White and Always Artichoke card stock. The image on the white card was embossed with green embossing powder, and the image on the green card was embossed with white embossing powder. Then each image was cut in half and swapped so that you get half green on white and half white on green. The same technique has been used for the greeting, which was then punched with the Large Decorative Label punch.

The card also uses some retired Christmas paper that coordinates well with the Cherry Cobbler red card base. A bit of Whisper White taffeta ribbon finishes off the card.

Is It Too Early To Make Christmas Cards?

2011-07-23T10:00:00.009+09:30

No! Why not get a head start on this year's cards and start making a couple per week from now on. That's what I'm doing, so that I'll have enough for my friends and family by the time the silly season comes around.

Today's card is one designed by Heather, and uses the adorable Owl Punch as well as the Christmas Ornament and Scallop Circle punches.

This is a Side-Step card, and the colours used are Real Red, Whisper White and Black. The stamp used on the Christmas Ornament is from the Snow Swirled stamp set, and the greeting is from the Many Merry Messages stamp set. Isn't the little owl cute?

Twisted Easel Butterfly Card

2011-07-22T10:00:00.004+09:30

Hi there,

Here's another Twisted Easel card, this time with a single twist, so it's really quick and easy to make. Thanks to Tamara for the design.

The colours used are Old Olive and So Saffron, the butterflies are cut and embossed using the Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die, and the stamp is from the 2011 Sale-A-Bration set called Bliss. The lace-like paper ribbon is created using the Eyelet Border punch on a strip of white card, which is then put through the Crimper.

As the Bliss stamp set is retired, I can't order any more, but I do have 2 sets in stock, so if you would like to purchase one, just email me.

Tool Tip - Blender Pen

2011-07-21T10:00:00.000+09:30

Blender pens can be used to colour stamped images with different mediums, including dye based ink, chalk, watercolour crayons and watercolour pencils. They contain a clear liquid.

When using ink, swipe your stamp pad on a non-porous surface such as a clear plastic stamp case or whatever you have to hand, to leave some of the ink on the slick surface. Pick up some of the ink with your blender pen and add to the stamped image.

When using chalk, pick up the colour straight from the chalk square and apply to your image. The liquid in the blender pen will help set the chalk.

When using crayons, you can either pick up colour from the end of the crayon and apply to your image, or colour in the edges of your image with the crayon and then use the blender pen to drag the colour inwards.

With watercolour pencils, it's easier to colour in the edges of your image with the pencils and then use the blender pen to drag the colour inwards and blend colours together.

The card I posted yesterday was coloured using a blender pen and ink.

Nature Walk card

2011-07-20T10:00:00.000+09:30

Today's card uses the lovely Nature Walk stamp set from the Autumn-Winter mini catalogue, which is finishing soon - 31st July, so if you would like this stamp set you need to order it now.

A couple of faux brads were made up for the top right hand corner, and the bird was coloured in using a blender pen.

Bottle Tag

2011-07-19T10:00:00.001+09:30

Hi!

Today's project is not really a card, but a tag that you put on a wine bottle or similar, when giving a gift. This was given to a friend at her birthday party on the weekend, and she loved it.

I wrote a message on the back. The butterflies are from the Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die. This die cuts out 5 different butterflies and embosses them at the same time. The butterfly stamp is All a Flutter, and the sentiment is from a retired set.

Vintage Vogue Shadow Box Card

2011-07-18T10:00:00.036+09:30

Today's card uses the lovely Vintage Vogue stamp set and the Very Vintage Jumbo Wheel. This is a Shadow Box card, which gives a 3-Dimensional effect and is a bit different from the standard folded card.

I don't usually use the Vintage style in my cards, but I'm happy with how this turned out.

OTHER SUPPLIES:
Card Stock: Rose Red and Very Vanilla
Ink: Rose Red, Elegant Eggplant, Perfect Plum, Pretty in Pink, Pale Plum (retired), Almost Amethyst (retired), Versamark
Accessories: White Taffeta Ribbon coloured with Rose Red ink, Basic Pearls, 1 3/8" Circle and 1 3/4" Scallop Circle punches.

Another Versamark Resist Card

2011-07-17T10:00:00.000+09:30

Hi there!

As promised, here's another easy card using the Versamark Resist or Ghosting technique.

This one uses the All a Flutter stamp from Stampin Up on both the background panel and the feature panel. I used Rose Red ink for the background on the Glossy White card stock and for the Butterfly image on the Whisper White panel. Black Stazon ink was used for the happy birthday sentiment, and Black card stock used for contrast.

I hope this gives you some ideas for cards that don't take a lot of time but are well received.

Versamark Resist Technique

2011-07-16T10:00:00.001+09:30

Today's card uses a technique called Versamark Resist, or Ghosting. Versamark is a clear ink which is used to give a watermark effect on plain card stock or to apply embossing powder to a stamped image.

To get the ghosting effect you need to stamp your images using Versamark on Glossy White card stock. Here I've used the grass image from the Inspired By Nature stamp set and the butterfly is called All a Flutter. Once you've stamped your images, you colour the Glossy White card stock using dye based ink like Stampin Up's Classic Stamp pads, applying it either with a brayer or cotton ball, which is how I did mine. After applying the colour to the card, just buff the card using either a paper towel or clean cotton ball, to make the white really stand out.

The sentiment is from Sincere Salutations stamp set, stamped onto Whisper White card stock with Old Olive ink. This is then punched out using the Large Oval Punch, and matted onto a piece of Old Olive card stock punched out with the Scallop Oval punch.

Tomorrow I'll show another card using this same technique. It's a quick and easy technique and you can make a card for any occasion using this technique.

Top Note Patchwork card

2011-07-15T10:00:00.002+09:30

Hi there!

Today's card has been made using the Top Note Bigz Die in the Big Shot machine. The patchwork panel is a great way to use up leftover double-sided Designer Series Paper.

The base card is Chocolate Chip, which has been stamped with Versamark using a flower stamp from the Simply Said stamp set, and the "stitching" is actually done with a Chocolate Chip Stampin Up marker. The sentiment comes from that old faithful stamp set, Sincere Salutations.

If you come up with your own design using this idea, I'd love to see it!

Embossed Elements of Style

2011-07-14T10:00:00.004+09:30

I've seen lots of gorgeous cards using the Elements of Style stamp set, and when we made this lovely card at a recent monthly get-together, I had to get this set for my collection!

It also uses the clock stamp from the Sense of Time stamp set. After the images were stamped and coloured in the card panel was inserted into the Finial Press embossing folder and put through the Big Shot machine. This card also uses the Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die for the little butterflies.

Do you have a papercrafting question?

2011-07-13T10:00:00.003+09:30

What is your "number one" papercrafting question? For example, something you're not sure of about a technique or how to use a product? Post your question in the comments section and I'll do my best to answer it!

Inlaid Embossing

2011-07-12T10:00:00.017+09:30

Today's card uses a technique called Inlaid Embossing, and uses a leaf stamp from the French Foliage stamp set, which is in the current Autumn Winter catalogue, and which finishes at the end of this month. The sentiment is from the Sense of Time stamp set. The embossing folder is Square Lattice.

If you would like to order any of these supplies, please email me.

Impress your friends with this Double Twisted Easel Card

2011-07-11T10:00:00.001+09:30

Hi again!

Today's card is a Double Twisted Easel Card, and it really is not as complicated as it looks. There's even not much stamping on it.

This one uses up some (retired) Designer Series Paper which is double sided. The sentiment is from On Your Birthday stamp set, and the butterfly is created using Beautiful Butterflies Bigz Die in the Big Shot die cutting machine. Once the butterflies are cut out with the die they are then embossed using the Vintage Wallpaper Textured Impressions Embossing Folder and put through the Big Shot machine.

If you would like me to show you how to make these cards, just let me know and I'll run a class on them.

Another Easy Easel Card

2011-07-10T10:00:00.000+09:30

Today's card is another easel card, this time one that folds down to 6" x 4". This one I call a Triptych easel card as it has 3 panels.

The flower stamps used have been inked directly onto the rubber using Stampin Up's Brush Markers, so as to give the different colours. A Sentiment has been stamped and matted onto Mustard cardstock, and mounted on to the base of the card with Stampin Dimensionals (foam dots) to raise it and thus become the "propping up" mechanism for the card.

Let me know what you think of my cards by leaving me a comment below.

Tomorrow I'll show you a more complicated version of the easel card.

Easy Easel Cards

2011-07-09T10:00:00.001+09:30

Easel cards are really easy to make, and you can be as simple or as fancy as you like. I've been making a few lately, and will be sharing those with you over the next few days.

Here is the first one I ever made, it folds up to 4" x 4".

I used a pink (now retired) cardstock colour for the base card and Confetti White cardstock panels. These were spritzed using the Spritzer Tool and Stampin Write Markers. The stamp set used was Great Friend, and I stamped the butterfly image 3 times on Whisper White paper using 3 different colours of stamp pads. One of the Flower Designer Brads was used as the "propping up" mechanism.

This card is so easy to make, and great for novice card makers. Tomorrow I'll show another version of the Easel Card.

Gift With Purchase Promotion

2011-07-08T10:00:00.002+09:30

From 1-31 July, Stampin’ Up! is giving you a FREE exclusive accessories bundle when you spend $100 on your choice of Stampin’ Up! products.

Bundle Includes:
• One spool of white 1/4" (6 mm) grosgrain ribbon with repeating flower designs. Approximately 13,7 m.
• 48 flower buttons. 16 each in 3 colours (Daffodil Delight, Melon Mambo and Pacific Point). Approximately 1/2" (1,3 cm).

Who doesn't like freebies! Place your order with me now to get these great accessories.

New Bigshot Project - Mini Milk Carton Die

2011-07-07T17:00:00.001+09:30

Would you believe you could make a cute little hexagon shaped box with the Mini Milk Carton Die from Stampin Up? I like the cute milk cartons you can make, but this is so much fancier. When my Stampin Up friends got together recently to swap ideas and make cards and things, this was one of them.

SUPPLIES USED:
CARDSTOCK: Rose Red and Basic Black
INK: Whisper White Craft Stampin Pad
STAMP: Retro Remix Stampin Around Wheel (standard size)
ACCESSORIES: Scallop Edge Border Punch, Big Shot Die Cutting Machine, Mini Milk Carton Die, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Basic Rhinestones, Sticky Strip, 2-Way Glue Pen, Organdy ribbon (retired), non Stampin Up flowers.

If you would like to make this box, let me know, as I will be running a class very soon.

Extra! Extra! Hostess Promotion

2011-06-08T14:21:00.000+09:30

Hold a $450 workshop/party (including GST and shipping) between 23 May and 30 June 2011, and earn an EXTRA $70 in hostess rewards on any catalogue merchandise! This means that as well as the free level 1 hostess product, you can choose free product from the main catalogue and mini catalogue to the value of $110 ($40 usual free product amount + $70 bonus).

This promotion can be used for a regular in-home party/workshop, or a "catalogue" party where you collect orders from your friends, or for yourself in a single order.

Call me to book your workshop, or place your order.

May Deal of the Week 4

2011-05-25T10:03:00.000+09:30

Do you love the Stampin' Around Wheels, or Rub-on packs? Now is your chance to get them at up to 30% off, with our 4th and final Deals of the Week!!

113838 Right on Track Stampin' Around Wheel (was $14.50) NOW $10.15
115619 Retro Remix Stampin' Around Wheel (was 14.50) NOW $10.15
119975 Vintage Type Rub-ons (were $19.50) NOW $13.65
118760 Play Date Rub-ons (were $20.50) NOW $14.35

Remember these deals are only available until Tuesday 31 May, so order yours now!

There is no minimum purchase required to participate in this promotion.
*There is no limit to the number of Deals of the Week items you may purchase. However, if we run low on product we will return the product to full price before the end of the week.

May Deal of the Week 3

2011-05-18T10:00:00.000+09:30

This one is for you if you love ribbon and bling.

119750 Daffodil Delight 5/8" Satin Ribbon, approx 13.7 m long (was $20.50) NOW $14.35
119963 Certainly Celery 3/8" Taffeta Ribbon, approx 9.14 m long (was $16.50) NOW $11.55
109112 Square Fire Rhinestone Brads, approx 80 brads, 4 colours (were $23.95) NOW $16.77
109113 Square Ice Rhinestone Brads, approx 80 brads, 4 colours (were $23.95) NOW $16.77

Order your special deals now - remember you only have until Next Tuesday to order!
Please note: There is no minimum purchase required to participate in this promotion.There is no limit to the number of Deals of the Week you may purchase. However, if we run low on product we will return the product to full price before the end of the week.

Find us on Facebook!

2011-05-12T12:44:00.000+09:30

I've finally worked out how to add a link to my Facebook page here on my blog! I'm offering a special on my Facebook page, so go and check it out!

Deal of the Week 2

2011-05-11T11:10:00.000+09:30

Do you have a Big Shot or other die-cutting machine? Then you are going to love this weeks deals!

120963 Stampin' Pastels New Colour Kit (Was $34.95) NOW $27.96
115957 Thanks Embosslit Die (Was $26.50) NOW $21.20
114513 Sweetest Stems Embosslit (Was $26.50) NOW $21.20
113483 Pennant Bigz XL Die (Was $91.95) NOW $73.56

Refer to pages 151 and 155 of the 2010-2011 Idea Book and Catalogue for pictures of the dies.

Cottage Garden Waterfall card

2011-05-02T10:57:00.000+09:30

Here's a waterfall card I made a while ago using the Cottage Garden set that's one of the 40% off deals for this week.

Deal of the Week 1

2011-05-02T10:28:00.000+09:30

During the month of May, Stampin' Up! will offer several discounted products as 'Deals of the Week.' No limits* and no minimum purchase required.

Deal Number 1 is 40% off these stamps:

Item	Page	Description	Regular Price	Sale Price
121578	37	Tag Alongs Wood-Mount Set	$31.95	$19.17
120468	59	More Monkey Accessories Clear-Mount Set	$23.95	$14.37
121550	59	More Monkey Accessories Wood-Mount Set	$29.95	$17.97
120003	75	Cottage Garden Clear-Mount Set	$24.95	$14.97
119163	75	Cottage Garden Wood-Mount Set	$32.95	$19.77
121494	98	Compliments to the Chef Wood-Mount Set	$35.95	$21.57

These are available until next Tuesday, 10th May, so the first one goes for a bit over a week. The others will go from Wednesday to the following Tuesday.

Anyway, now is a great time to stock up on your favourite products! Email me to place your order.

Be sure to hurry and purchase each week's deals early on so you don't miss out! When the new week's deals start up each Wednesday at midnight, the last week's deals are over . . . forever!

*There is no limit to the number of Deals of the Week items you may purchase. However, if we run low on product we will return the product to full catalogue price before the end of the week. If this happens, we will announce it on the Stampin' Up! website homepage.

New Deals Coming Each Week in May!

2011-04-28T12:35:00.000+09:30

Throughout the month of May, Stampin’ Up!® is offering you a new deal on our exclusive products every week! Check back here each week in May to find out the latest deal and get up to 40 percent off a selection of incredible products from the 2010-2011 Idea Book & Catalogue.

I can't wait!

Sponged Embossing

2011-04-22T17:35:00.000+09:30

Here's a quick and easy technique to give a bit of a lift to embossing on a card.

In the card below I used the Petals-A-Plenty embossing folder on Very Vanilla cardstock put through the Big Shot. Then I lightly sponged the embossing with Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive and Rich Razzleberry inks. The panel is then put on a Pumpkin Pie cardstock base. The greeting is stamped with Rich Razzleberry ink on a piece of Very Vanilla cardstock, then punched with the Curly Label Punch. It is then layered on a Piece of Pumpkin Pie cardstock which is punched out with the Decorative Label Punch.

In the card below I used Very Vanilla cardstock in the Finial Press embossing folder, put through the Big Shot. Then I lightly sponged with Pretty in Pink, Rich Razzleberry and Early Espresso ink. The panel is then put on a Rich Razzleberry cardstock base. The greeting is stamped with Rich Razzleberry ink on Very Vanilla and then punched out with the Scallop Circle punch. It is then layered onto a piece of Rich Razzleberry cardstock punched out with the Large Scallop Circle punch.

Incidentally, the colour combinations I used came straight out of Stampin Up's Colour Coach, for colours that go with Rich Razzleberry.

Easter Bunny Baskets!

2011-04-18T15:25:00.000+09:30

Easter is next weekend, and there's still time to make these cute Easter Bunny baskets. I made these at my stall at the the craft fair and market over the weekend. Each took about 30 minutes to make, and is a good way to use up some old (retired) Designer Series Paper and some retired card stock.