Just Monkeying Around....

Cupid Stella

2012-02-08T19:33:00.001-06:00

I had to try out some more of my new paper and I couldn't resist using Stella again...I think she is a hoot! I like that the DP is a bit non-traditional color-wise. Can't say that I've made too many blue Valentines.... Stella is colored with pencils and accented with glitter...it's hard to see in the photo, but I even added a touch to her blue eye shadow.... Now that's hot!

Image: Totally Stampalicious (Bugaboo)
Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, Spring Rain, Pure Poppy, and True Black, Pinecone Press DP
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen
Embellies: Wright's Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust"
Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, MFT Die-namics "Upsy Daisy" Die, Dimensionals

I'm entering this card in the following challenges:
Addicted to Stamps Challenge: Valentines/Love
Catch the Bug: Anything Goes
CES Challenges: Give Me Wings
Ladybugs Crafts Ink: Loves Me, Loves Me Not
Papertake Weekly: Anything Goes
Party Time Tuesdays: Valentine
Ruby's Rainbow: Flowers (with a bit of sparkle)
The Ribbon Carousel Challenge: Anything Goes
Tuesday Throwdown: Be My Valentine

Thank you for stopping by!

Angela

TMS#132

2012-02-07T05:00:00.000-06:00

Good Tuesday morning! It's time for another fun sketch from Tuesday Morning Sketches; today Theresa has done the the honors and our sponsor is Paper Pretties.

We went out of town this past weekend and I had the opportunity to shop at 2 stamping/scrapping stores. I'm always excited when I get this kind of opportunity because the only stores I have close are big box stores. So I was like a kid in a candy store! Even though Valentines is so close and there's not a lot of card making time left, I couldn't resist some of the lovely papers I found. This line is from Echo Park and is called "Yours Truly".

I stamped my image on CS and DP; then colored the image, cut it out and pieced it. I like the subtle text in the background. I added a bit of glitter to the pink hearts. I also tried something a bit different embellishment-wise. I love the swirly bling I see used on cards, but don't use it myself so I thought I would give it a go. I tell you, I had that bling here, there, and everywhere before I was happy with it! LOL Good thing it is not overly sticky!

Image: Stampendous
Paper: G.P. 110, SU! Ruby Red and Basic Grey, Echo Park DP
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen
Embellies: Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Pink Smoothie", Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, Zva Creative Bling
Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, Dimensionals

You can check out the rest of the DT's creations here; be sure to leave them a little love for their efforts. Would love to see what you come up with using this fun sketch too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Valentine Pocket Card

2012-02-03T08:05:00.001-06:00

Good morning! I combined some challenges to make my card for today; the starting point was the SCS sketch challenge.... You could either make a pocket or the lower portion could open; I opted to go for the pocket, so my fold is on the bottom. The bottom of the insert is left blank so you can write your message.

My image is colored with pencils and the red portion is accented with glitter. I decided to use just CS, so I embossed the red layers for a bit of texture. I added a scalloped border, ribbon, felt flower and some bling for embellishment.

I am entering this card in the following challenges:
Bellarific Friday: Valentines or Pink/Red
Corrosive Challenge Blog: I {Heart}You
Crafty Sentiments Designs: Punches and/or Dies
Die Cuttin Divas: Anything Goes (used scallop border and flower dies)
Oldie But a Goodie Challenge: Hearts (stamp and embossing folder are my oldies)
Party Time Tuesdays: Anything Goes
The Crafty Pad: Valentine/Love

January SFYTT

2012-01-31T22:00:00.000-06:00

Hello there! I usually don't do 3 posts in 1 day, but I needed to upload my card for Jen del Muro's January Sketch For You To Try. I am just squeaking by!

My image is colored with pencils and accented with glitter. I mounted it on the Heart Rosette CutUps Die. So far I havn't actually used it to make a rosette...I like the looks of it used as a doily too. For embellishing, I used a couple of Bella Dots on the upper vellum panel.

Image: The Cat's Pajamas
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen
Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Dark Chocolate, SU! Blushing Bride, The Paper Studio Vellum, KI Memories DP
Embellies: Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust", Bella Dots in "Chocolate"
Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinders Nestabilities, The Cat's Pajamas Heart Rosette CutUps Die, Dimensionals

I am also entering this card in the following challenges:

City Crafter Challenge: You've Got Mail
Craft Your Passions: Beary Sweet
Ladybug Crafts Ink Challenge: Loves Me, Loves Me Not
Paper Pretties Monday Challenge: Love
The Cat's Pajamas: Hearts (last week's challenge)
The Stamping Boutique: Valentine's
Tuesday Throwdown: Hearts

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Tuesday Morning Sketches #131

2012-01-31T05:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning! (Again! For Creative Card Crew post scroll down; thank you.) It's time for another fun sketch from Tuesday Morning Sketches; our sponsor this week is Doodle Pantry.

I like that this week's sketch was well suited for a CAS card. I paper pieced my image, added some googlie eyes and popped up the image panel on a diecut. I added some Valentine DP and a sentiment...voila', a quick Valentine card!

Image/Sentiment: Paper Smooches
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, SU! Black Marker
Paper: SU! Blushing Bride, PTI Dark Chocolate, PTI DP (dots), American Crafts DP
Embellies: Googlie Eyes (Hobby Lobby)
Extras: The Cat's Pajamas Die, Spellbinders Nestabilities, Dimensionals

Note: I discovered that SU! Blushing Bride CS goes better with the PTI Sweet Blush DP than the PTI Sweet Blush CS.

I hope you will stop by to check out the rest of the DT's cards; you will surely not be disappointed. I would love to see your take on this versatile sketch too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Creative Card Crew: Fantasy

2012-01-31T00:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning! It's time for another Creative Card Crew challenge; this fortnight our theme is "fantasy" and our sponsor is Michelle Perkett. Michelle has some beautiful fairies, but I couldn't resist this whimsical mermaid; I think she's a doll! Thank you, Michelle!

When I was working on my card, I couldn't decide whether I should go with birthday or water themed DP. I finally settled on these cute fish.... The DP was already distressed, but I distressed the edges further to give it a bit more texture; I like the shabby look paired with the crisp white cardbase and image panel. The image is colored with pencils and accented with glitter and mini brads. I pierced a circle, added some brads and popped the image up.

Image: Michelle Perkett Digital Stamp'
Ink: Sakura Black Gel Pen
Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, Fancy Pants Designs DP
Embellies: Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Pink Smoothie", Recollections Brads
Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinders Nestabilities, Crafter's Workshop Template, Dimensionals

I have seen some peeks at the rest of the DT's cards; you won't want to miss peeking yourself! Better yet, why not play along for a chance to win this fortnight's prize? (Michelle Perkett's "Lily" image.)

Thank you for stopping by!

Angela

Bellarific Friday

2012-01-27T09:34:00.000-06:00

Good morning! Did you all know that Emily is back at SCS as a Member Company? How cool is that? The weekly challenges are posted there and you can also email your creation to Emily to be posted on Bloggabella.

As I was looking through my stamps yesterday, I picked out several possibilities but decided I had to go with this cute Peep...that heart was just asking to be paper pieced! Lately I really hate to cover up pretty DP, so I decided I would stamp the image on a cutout that I could "patch" back together. I then stamped the heart on the script DP; I thought I would just be able to color the scallops, but the DP was too dark...same thing with Peep. As I was cutting the scallops out of CS, I wondered to myself why I thought this was a good idea?! LOL I used some twill for the corner elements of the sketch. I toyed with adding a felt flower, but thought it looked better plain.

Image: Stamping Bella
Paper: PTI Hibiscus Burst and Dark Chocolate, Bo Bunny DP
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen
Embellie: PTI Dark Chocolate Twill
Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinders Nestabilities, Dimensionals

I am also entering this card in the following challenges:

Charisma Cardz Challenges: Pretty in Pink
Corrosive Challenge Blog: I {Heart} You
Crafty Purple Frog Challenges: Valentine's Day/Show Us Some Love
Karen's Doodles: Paper Piecing

Thank you for stopping by! Enjoy your weekend!

Angela

Cupid Bunny

2012-01-26T10:04:00.000-06:00

I combined the SCS sketch challenge with some other challenges yesterday. It was fun to break out my new The Cat's Pajamas stamps and play...I think this bunny is sooo cute! The set has some really fun sentiments too, but I didn't know how to work them in with the sketch...maybe the inside of the card (sadly, I usually neglect the inside of my cards!).

Bunny is colored with pencils, his eyes and belly-button dotted with a black gel pen, and his wings accented with glitter. I cut out his ear then ran it through my Cuttlebug with a Spellbinders die (see below for a tip). I added a small sentiment and some acrylic gems and called it good.

Tips and Tricks: My poor little bunny's ear was a bit worse for the wear after running him through the Cuttlebug. My plates are a bit battered and left some ugly marks on the front, so I used my bone folder to burnish the backside of the paper. I had to rub really hard, but it did the trick!

Image/Sentiment: The Cat's Pajamas
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen
Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, Pure Poppy, and Dark Chocolate, Bo Bunny DP
Embellies: Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust", Red Acrylic Gems ("Hobby Lobby)
Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinders Dies, Cuttlebug "Swiss Dot" Embossing Folder, Dimensionals

I am also entering my card in the following challenges:

Anything Goes Challenge Blog: ToThe One I Love
Cupcake Craft Challenge: All You Need Is Love
Deep Ocean Challenge Blog: Sparkling And/Or Glitter
Inky Impressions: Heart You
My Time To Craft: Favorite Embellishment (Glitter, of course!)
Oldie But A Goodie Challenge: Have A Heart (DP is left from last Valentine's Day)
Paper Pretties Monday Challenge: Valentine
Ruby's Rainbow: Valentines or Red/Black
Simon Says Stamp: Anything Goes
The Sisterhood of Crafters: Stripes
There She Goes: Love Is In The Air

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

TMS#130

2012-01-24T05:00:00.000-06:00

Good Tuesday morning! Jessica, from Tuesday Morning Sketches, has drawn us a fun sketch to work with this week. Our sponsor is Stamp Fairy; Gerda has the cutest digital images! I was going to get a new image, but the more I looked the more I found that I liked.... I just couldn't make up my mind, so I went with the image I already had.... Barry is really fun to color....

I went the clean and simple route with this card, but I would like to try the sketch again and take it up a notch. Isn't versatility great? Barry is colored with Prisma pencils and accented with glitter. I wanted to let the DP shine, so I used just some simple beads for the sentiment. Was thinking of adding some snowflakes, but I made myself stop...after all, the snowflakes on the DP are so pretty.

Image: Stamp Fairy Digital Stamp
Paper: G.P. 110, SU! Orchid Opulence and Soft Suede, Crate Paper DP
Embellies: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter (Barry's hat), Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust" (snow), Alphabet Beaads (Hobby Lobby)
Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinders Nestabilities, DMC Floss

I really can't wait to see everyone's take on Jessica's sketch! I hope you'll check them out too and leave the DT a bit of love for their efforts. I would also love to see your take on the sketch!

I am also entering this card in the Crafty Cardmakers challenge, which is to use beads.

Thanks for stopping by today; have a great week!

Angela

TMS#129

2012-01-17T05:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning! (I'm back with post number 2 today; for my Creative Card Crew post, please scroll down or click here.) We have another fun sketch for you to try at the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog; our sponsor this week is Cupcake Creations.

I thought it would be fun to make a small card this week; this one is only 4 1/4 inches square...it's fun to do something a bit different for a change! The image is stamped on DP, then colored with pencils and accented with glitter. I put my Spellbinders dies to good use diecutting the circles; the image panel is popped up. I finished the card with 3 brads; I had some ribbon out, but decided to just leave it as is.

Image: Stampendous
Paper: PTI Hibiscus Burst and Dark Chocolate, Bo Bunny DP
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen
Embellies: Spare Parts Brads, Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Pink Smoothie" and "Angel Dust"
Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinders Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I can't wait to check out what the rest of the girls have done with this sketch; I know they would love for you to check them out too.... Why not leave a little love on their blogs while you're at it?!

Thanks for stopping by; have a great week!

Angela

Creative Card Crew: Seeing Red

2012-01-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning! It's time for another fun challenge from the Creative Card Crew team; our challenge this fortnight is "Seeing Red" and our sponsor is Pizzazz Aplenty.

When I was planning my card for this challenge, I thought of Stella's Red Hat Society images, but as I was looking through my stamps I came across this fun image. Since it's so close to Valentine's Day, I thought I would go with it. I've been hoarding this DP, but thought it would go perfectly with Stella so I finally took the plunge and cut into it. Does anybody else have that problem? Not wanting to actually use your supplies? Yes, I do realize that there is plenty more DP out there! LOL

Stella is colored with pencils and accented with glitter. I couldn't resist adding glitter to her fancy boots...wish I had a pair of those! I used a simple layout and embellished my card simply with ribbon and a diecut sentiment.

Image: Totally Stampalicious
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen
Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, SU! Real Red and Elegant Eggplant, Carolee's Creations DP
Embellies: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter (wings), Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust" (on red), PTI Pure Poppy Grosgrain Ribbon, SU! Eggplant Grosgrain Ribbon
Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinders Die, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

What do you think? Is she a hot tamale or what? LOL I hope you will head on over to the Creative Card Crew blog to check out the rest of the DTs' creations. I would love to see your take on "Seeing Red" too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Barry's Snowman

2012-01-12T05:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning! Today the card I have to share was a fun one to make...it combines lots of challenges! Yesterday I printed the sketch for the challenge at SCS and used that as a starting point.

The image I used is a digital stamp from Stamp Fairy; I think Barry and his little snowman are adorable! The image is colored with pencils and accented with 2 kinds of glitter; subtle glitter for Barry's hat and glitter with a bit more sparkle for the snow/snowflakes. I used some Spellbinder's dies for the snowflakes, and then coated the white ones with glitter. As I was making a mess, I thought of my glitter paper! Hmmm, why do I usually forget to use it? LOL I added a brad to the middle of the snowflakes and elevated them with a dimensional.

Image: Stamp Fairy Digital Stamp
Ink: Printer, Sakura Black Gel Pen
Paper: G.P. 110, PTI Stamper's Select, SU! Basic Gray, KI Memories DP
Embellies: Spare Parts Brads, Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust"
Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinders Dies, SU! Dimensionals

I am entering this card in the following challenges:

Critter Sketch Challenge: Baby It's Cold Outside

Papertake Weekly: Die Cute Special

Shopping Our Stash: All that Glitters, Sparkles, or Shines

Tuesday Throwdown: Baby It's Cold Outside

Use It Tuesdays: All About Winter (Hoarded KI Memories DP...I'm down to scraps which I have saved for "special" cards.)

I have to say it is fun to look through the challenges and see which ones I can combine to make a card...it really makes me think!

Thanks for stopping by today!

Angela

TMS#128

2012-01-10T05:00:00.000-06:00

Good Tuesday morning! It's time for another challenge from Tuesday Morning Sketches; today our fun sketch is courtesy of Marie. The sponsor for this challenge is Bugaboo Stamps; they really have something for everyone...check them out! This is also a judged challenge...with a twist...vintage!

Well, I will have to say that I love Bugaboo images and I love vintage, but I couldn't really see how to pair the two.... Until I saw this lovely silhouette...thank you to Jodie at Bugaboo! The image is printed on DP and diecut with Spellbinder's dies. I distressed the DP, added a bit of ribbon, a felt rose, butterflies, stickpins, and pearls.

Image: Bugaboo Digital Stamp
Paper: PTI Vintage Cream and True Black, The Paper Studio Vellum, My Mind's Eye DP
Embellies: Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Kaisercraft Pearls, Maya Road Stickpins
Extras: Spellbinder's Dies, Martha Stewart Butterfly Punch, MFT Rolled Rose Die, The Cat's Pajamas Felt, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I really can't wait to see how the rest of the DT paired our vintage theme with Bugaboo Stamps! I hope you will check them out too and leave a bit of love for their efforts.... I'd love to see what you come up with too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

be unique

2012-01-08T05:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning! I was browsing the Pottery Barn Teen website, looking for bedding, and came across a pillow that really caught my eye. I was inspired me to make this card.... Let me tell you, I was really exited to come up with an original idea! A lot of the time I use a sketch as a springboard. I also don't tend to make many CAS cards, so this was a fun change. I do have some other ideas that I hope to try out soon....

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, True Black, Raspberry Fizz
Embellie: Swarovski Flatback Crystal
Extras: PTI Alphabet and Label Dies, Provo Craft Die (female form), SU! Dimensionals

That's all for today; thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Think Cocoa!

2012-01-05T06:28:00.002-06:00

Good morning! It has gotten a bit colder around here (even though we have no snow), so it's the season for a "hot drink" as my daughter would say!

I combined a few challenges when I made this card:

Anything Goes Challenge: The Color Blue and One Other Color (blue and brown)
Creative Belli Challenge: Snowflakes and an Old or Forgotten Embellishment (Doodlebug glitter brads---have had these forever and have hoarded them because they are so pretty. I'm finally using them up...will need to buy more for sure! Now to dig into the lime ones I bought....)
SCS Sketch Challenge: #366
Sentimental Sundays: Anything Goes (must use sentiment)
Sweet Stamps: Winter
House that Stamps Built: Blue and Brown Card Challenge

Changito is colored with pencils...actually I had to color him twice, the first time the color was all wrong. Isn't it crazy that you can have a tin of 120 pencils and you can't find the perfect color? I mixed a bit of brown in with the blue to make it work. I added some glitter accents to Changito's clothing and the sentiment; the brads are also glittery. The snowflakes are Spellbinder's dies.

Image/Sentiment: Stampendous
Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, SU! Not Quite Navy, Little Yellow Bicycle DP
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen
Embellies: Doodlebug Glitter, Doodlebug Brads
Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Dies, SU! Dimensionals

Thanks for stopping by today; I hope you are keeping warm wherever you are! Time to go make a "hot drink"....

Angela

TMS#127

2012-01-03T05:30:00.000-06:00

Again, good morning! I'm back with my second post for the day. (For Creative Card Crew post, click here.) It's time for another challenge at Tuesday Morning Sketches; our sketch this week is courtesy of Kathleen. It's a great sketch; I did have to turn my card into a square to make my image work.... Our sponsor this week is Sparkle Creations and she graciously gave me "Backpack Oliver" to work with...thank you, Sparkle!

I wanted to do something a bit different so after stamping the image on Confetti White, I decided to just color the apple. I found some fun papers in my stash that were perfect for the school theme...the images simply make me happy! I got out my Corner Chomper and rounded some of the corners...I think it adds a nice touch. The card is embellished simply with Baker's Twine and brads. I might just have to save this card for the end of the school year since I have a son in the 5th grade....

Image: Sparkle Creations "Backpack Oliver"
Sentiment: Pink Cat Studio
Paper: SU! Confetti White and Cherry Cobbler, PTI True Black, Imaginisce DP
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black
Embellies: PTI Pure Poppy Baker's Twine, Spare Parts Brads
Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Corner Chomper, SU! Dimensionals and Small Oval Punch

I can't wait to head on over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to see what the rest of the DT has done with this fun sketch! I would love to see your take on it too....

Thanks for stopping by today!

Angela

Creative Card Crew Challenge: Snow Day

2012-01-03T00:00:00.000-06:00

(Sneak peek and detail shot of glitter and crystals.)

Good morning and Happy New Year! With the arrival of the holiday season, I noticed a lot of challenge blogs were taking a break, which is good as it gives us more time to enjoy our families and the festivities. That said, I am happy to be back in the swing of things and get a routine going again! Anyone else feel that way?

With the new year comes a new challenge from the Creative Card Crew...Snow Day! I really love this theme...to me it means snow, snowflakes, and glitter...I love it all! Our sponsor for this challenge is Simon Says Stamp, a great online store that has a huge variety of stamping goodies. Play along for a chance to win some of those goodies for yourself!

I choose a stamp set from The Cat's Pajamas that had been begging to get inked.... Isn't the bunny the cutest? The image is colored with pencils, cut out with a Spellbinder's die, and accented with glitter. I went for the subtle stuff...just wanted to add a hint of sparkle so I applied it to random snowballs, not all of them.... I also used a die from TCP, called Snowflake Lace Paper. It is really cool since you can use both the positive and negative shapes; if you are into snowflakes like I am, this die is a "must" for your collection! I embellished the card with some ribbon, a button, and some Swarovski flatback crystals; I like the contrast of the "homey" button with the "fancy" crystals.

Image: The Cat's Pajamas

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, SU! Soft Suede, Carolee's Creations DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, SU! Soft Suede Dotted Grosgrain Ribbon, Swarovski Flatback Crystals, PTI Hawaiian Shores Button

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Die, The Cat's Pajamas Die, SU! Dimensionals

Here is a picture of the finished card:

I hope you will head on over to the Creative Card Crew blog to check out the rest of the DT's creations. As I said before, if you play along you have the chance of winning a gift certificate from Simon Says Stamp!

Thanks for stopping by today!

Angela

XOXO

2011-12-31T14:23:00.000-06:00

Hello there! As I was scanning the current challenges, I saw 3 that piqued my interest:

4 Crafty Chicks---Something New (image, twine)
Skipping Stones Design---Sketch 108
Whimsy Inspirations---Charms

So...with these challenges in mind, this is what I came up with! I colored the little gal with pencils, paper pieced her dress, and added glitter to the heart. I added a bit of twine and a charm for embellishing. When I finished, I wondered if maybe I should have used red for the card? Since I'm fighting a miserable cold and didn't feel like getting out my scalpel to perform card surgery, I left it as is! LOL

Image: Stampendous
Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, SU! Pretty in Pink and Basic Gray, Basic Grey DP
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen
Embellies: The Cat's Pajama's "Peppermint Twist" Twine, Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Pink Smoothie", Watch Us Charm
Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

So do you have any plans for New Year's Eve? Whatever your plans my be, have fun and be safe!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

TMS#126: Happy New Year

2011-12-27T05:30:00.000-06:00

Good morning! How was your Christmas? I'm hoping you were able to spend some quality time with your loved ones! I was lucky to be put "on call" for the day...even luckier when I didn't get called in! I have to admit that I'm a bit sad to stop making Christmas cards...I really like making them! I don't make a lot of New Year's cards, but I remembered this fun High Hopes stamp when I was planning my card for TMS this week.... Isn't Baby New Year the cutest?

The image is colored with pencils, then cut with Spellbinder's dies. I used Bazill Bling for the card base...it has a lovely subtle shimmer...I decided to go monochromatic to keep the focus on the image. I also flipped the sketch. I'm just realizing that I didn't use any embellishments of this card! I don't think it needs any....

Image: High Hopes
Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, Bazzill Bling
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen
Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos
I can't wait to see what the rest of the DT has done with this sketch! You can take a peek at the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog. I would love to see what YOU come up with too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Christmas Magic

2011-12-24T08:28:00.000-06:00

Good morning and "Happy Christmas Eve"! I had a bit of time last night so I got busy with an image that's just been begging to be colored and made into a card.... Isn't this little gal the cutest?! I just love the touch of whimsy...and the fact that I got to add a hefty dose of glitter! I do love me some glitter!

The little gal is colored with pencils and I accented my card with snowflake diecuts and glitter brads (yay, more glitter!). I used the sketch from Skipping Stones Designs Sketch Challenge #107...it's a great sketch that I will be using again!

I also made this card for these challenges:

ABC Christmas Challenge: Zingy Colors

Stampin' Royalty: Winter/Christmas

Image: Nellie Snellen
Paper: SU! Orchid Opulence and Soft Suede, Crate Paper DP
Ink: Sakura Black Gel Pen
Embellies: Doodlebug Glitter (White, Gold), Doodlebug Brads
Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Dies, SU! Dimensionals

Thank you for stopping by today...may you have a blessed Christmas and New Year!

Angela

TMS#125

2011-12-20T05:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning Tuesday Morning Sketches fans! We have a fun sketch today, courtesy of Marie; our sponsor is Paper Pretties.

I really thought this was a fun sketch...one I will be using again! I went with a more traditional color scheme and used my Teresa Collins paper pad. I colored my image with pencils and added a bit of glitter to her outfit. For embellishing, I used some brads and a bit of Baker's Twine. (The sentiment reads "Be Merry"; I think my camera was focusing on the print in the background, so it's out of focus.)

Image: MFT a' la modes "Candy Cane Kisses"
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen
Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and True Black, SU! Cherry Cobbler, Teresa Collins DP
Embellies: Spare Parts Brads, PTI Pure Poppy Baker's Twine, Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Polar Bear"
Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, SU! Dimensionals

Please check out the rest of the DT's goodies...I can't wait to see their interpretation of this sketch! Would love to see your interpretation of the sketch too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Creative Card Crew Challenge: Christmas Lights

2011-12-20T00:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning! It's time for another challenge at the Creative Card Crew blog. This fortnight our challenge is "Christmas Lights". Our sponsor for the challenge is Robyn's Fetish and I chose a light of the old fashioned variety...a candle! I decided to do something a bit different and made a tag, and then wrapped the gift with extra DP so it would coordinate.

I printed the image, colored it with pencils, then die cut it. The tag is a PTI die; before cutting it, I applied a strip of DP. I added a Cheery Lynn flourish, some twill and twine.

Image: Robyn's Fetish Digital Image
Paper: GP 110, PTI Fine Linen and Scarlet Jewel, Kelly Panacci DP
Embellies: PTI Scarlet Jewel Twill, PTI Twine
Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, PTI Tag Die, Cheery Lynn Flourish Die

I hope you will hop on over to the Creative Card Crew blog to see what the rest of the DT has created...we would love to see your take on "Christmas Lights" too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

TMS#124

2011-12-13T05:00:00.000-06:00

Good Tuesday morning! It's time for another fun challenge from Melissa at Tuesday Morning Sketches, and what a challenge it is! Our sponsor this week is Bugaboo Stamps...love their images! It is also a judged challenge, which means in addition to a sketch, we also have a twist...which adds a bit of extra fun. Our "Stamping Bingo" card is below, you can choose 3 going up/down, straight across, or diagonal. So many possibilities!

Here is the sketch:

Here is my card; I used Christmas Ribbon, Pattern Paper and Christmas Colors. I also used Funky Christmas Colors and Glitter...what do you think? Do I get extra points?

I was given "Margaret Calendar Month December" to work with. I printed my image twice, once on CS and again on DP. I colored the image, cut it out, adhered it the the DP, and then added glitter. I don't know about you, but Margaret cracks me up! I added some fun and funky papers from Doodlebug and embellished with some dotted ribbon, a button, and glittery white brads.

Image: Bugaboo Stamps Digital Image

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Pure Poppy, Doodlebug DP

Ink: SU! Black Marker

Embellies: PTI Pure Poppy Swiss Dot Ribbon, PTI Pure Poppy Button, Doodlebug Glitter Brads in "Lily White", Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Polar Bear"

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, SU! Dimensionals

I hope you will head on over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to see what the rest of the DT has created for you. Better yet, play along for a chance to win a prize!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Changito Santa

2011-12-10T23:18:00.002-06:00

Good morning! I had a bit of free time Saturday, so I was searching for a challenge I could work on. I actually found 4 that looked fun; I used the sketch from The Sweet Stop, and combined it with the Crazy 4 Challenges "It's Santa", Raise the Bar "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas", and Wee Memories "Holiday" challenges.

I've had this cute Changito Santa stamp just waiting to be inked up...I love his expression...it is a bit "Bah Humbug"! I colored Changito with pencils and added a bit of glitter to his hat. For the sketch, I ended up using a panel of vellum for one of the layers. I had cut some coordinating DP and decided it just didn't look right, plus I hated to cover up the cute background DP. I attached the vellum with glittery brads and finished off the card with some ribbon.

Image: Stampendous

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, SU! Passion Pink, Doodlebug DP, The Paper Studio Vellum

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: Doodlebug Glitter Brads in "Lily White", Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust", White Grosgrain Ribbon, Pink Organdy Ribbon

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Die, SU! Dimentionals

Thanks for stopping by; enjoy your day!

Angela

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas

2011-12-08T05:00:00.001-06:00

Good morning! I had a day off yesterday and had the opportunity to play the Splitcoaststampers sketch challenge. It was a fun sketch...will probably use it again for another card....

I used the My Mind's Eye 12 Days of Christmas pad and went for a bright and cheery look...I think the non-traditional colors are fun! Fluffles is colored with pencils, his eyes are dotted with a black gel pen, and the ornaments are accented with glitter. I added a sentiment from Verve, some ribbon, and brads to finish the card.

Image: Stampendous

Sentiment: Verve "Holly Jolly"

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Pure Poppy, SU! Bermuda Bay

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: SU! Red Grosgrain Ribbon, Spare Parts Brads, Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust"

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Tim Holtz Piercing Ruler, Lasting Impressions Piercer, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Below is a picture of the January card kit made for my S.S. I went with a winter theme; included were images from Stampendous and Kraftin' Kimmie, DP from Imaginisce (also a matching stamp), cardstock, diecut snowflakes, ribbons, and assorted brads. I really like making these and keep thinking it would be really fun to be able to do something creative like this for a living. No, I won't quit my day job! LOL

Thanks so much for stopping by; I hope you have a great day!

Angela

Tuesday Morning Sketches #123

2011-12-06T05:00:00.002-06:00

(For Creative Card Crew post, scroll down or click here.)

Good morning! It's time for another fun sketch from Melissa at Tuesday Morning Sketches! Our sponsor this week is Tiffany Doodles.

I have to confess that I was a bit stumped by this weeks' sketch...I kept trying to figure out what I could stamp in the 3 panels...then it hit me that I didn't have to stamp in them all.... Alrighty then, off to find a small image that would "fit"!

The image is colored and accented with glitter and Crystal Effects. I paired the image with some Making Memories DP; the holly berries are red foil, which you can't see in the photo. (Why is it so difficult to photograph shimmer and shine? You don't always see the full effect.) I added a diecut, some ribbon, and a holly embellishment to finish the card.

Image: Stampendous

Paper: SU! Vintage Cream and Pure Poppy, SU! Wild Wasabi, Making Memories DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Embellies: Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust", SU! Crystal Effects, PTI Red Satin Ribbon, Dress It Up Holly

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, SU! Top Note Die, SU! Dimensionals

I hope you will check out the rest of the DTs' take on the sketch here; better yet, why not play along? I would love to see your interpretation!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Creative Card Crew: 'Tis the Season

2011-12-06T00:00:00.002-06:00

Good morning! It's time for another challenge from Creative Card Crew; this fortnight our challenge is "'Tis the Season" and our sponsor is Simon Says Stamp.

I happened to come across this cute Stampendous set that I bought awhile ago...I had forgotten about it, because it was purchased way before the holidays. Anyway, I am happy to have found it...I think the little elf is adorable! I love her child-like exuberance!

The image is colored with pencils and accented it with glitter. I decided on a bright color scheme...I love the pink/red combo! For embellishing, I paper pierced, added some brads, and finished it off with some ribbon. I used Jen del Muro's December Sketch for You to Try.

I must confess this is "version 2". As I was uploading the photos of my card, I decided I didn't like the proportions of the image panel.... So back to the craft table I went! I stamped, colored, and mounted a new image panel and took off the original image panel (it came off in 1 piece, so I will be able to use it for another card). "Version 1" was not mounted on colored CS; the image was diecut only...it seemed to get lost on the card. I really like this version better...the only thing I would change is the position of the knot on the ribbon...I would center it perhaps. Just wondering if any of you ever do any "card surgery"? LOL

Image: Stampendous

Paper: SU! Melon Mambo, PTI Vintage Cream and Pure Poppy, My Mind's Eye DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Embellies: Doodlebug Glitter (Turquoise), Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust", Spare Parts Brads, Wright's Red Grosgrain Ribbon

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, Crafter's Workshop Circular Template, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I hope you'll head over to the Creative Card Crew blog to check out what the rest of the the DT has created to get you inspired. The theme is easy-peasy, so we'd love to see you play along too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Secret Sister Card Kit Swap

2011-12-05T14:53:00.003-06:00

Sneak Peek!!! Since we recently finished up another round of swapping, I thought I would share part of the reveal package I sent to my Little Sister. I decided on a "Kit of the Month" theme. I really had a fun time making these up and thought you might like a little peek. This is the finished batch, all packaged and lined up for a quick photo before I mailed them. Stay tuned!

I'll be back tomorrow with 2 cards; 1 for Creative Card Crew and 1 for Tuesday Morning Sketches....

Thanks for stopping by; have a great day!

Angela

TMS...on a Saturday!

2011-12-03T05:00:00.001-06:00

Good morning! I'm a bit late with my card for this week; I've had it done for a couple of days, but have been unable to upload to Blogger. The sketch shows some lovely swirls, but I just couldn't make them work...adhered and tore them off twice, so this one is super clean and simple. I really love the Penny Black quotes so that is the focal point of my card. I did a bit of distressing, added some rayon ribbon, and a button topped with a crystal.

Sentiment: Penny Black
Paper: PTI Fine Linen, Bo Bunny DP
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black
Embellies: SU! Pear Pizzazz Rayon Ribbon, PTI Button, Swarovski Flatback Crystal in "Olivine"
Extras: Spellbinder's Nestabilities, SU! Dimensionals

Our sponsor this week is Stretch n Bubbles; you can check out the rest of the DT's creations here.

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

TMS#121 (Please scroll down for Creative Card Crew post, thank you!)

2011-11-22T05:00:00.001-06:00

Good Tuesday morning! It's time for another fun sketch over at the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog; this was really a fun one...it has lots of possibilities! Our sponsor this week is Stamp Fairy; Gerta has some really cute goodies...check them out....

Since we got our first snow on Sunday, I decided to go with a winter theme. I'm just hoping that it'll be awhile before we are out shoveling the deep stuff like Changito.... LOL The image is colored with pencils and accented with a gel pen and glitter. I cut some snowflakes with a Spellbinder's die, added brads and popped them up for fun. I think this is a really nice sketch; I'll be using it again for sure.

Image: Stampendous

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, SU! Baja Breeze and Not Quite Navy, Little Yellow Bicycle DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: Spare Parts Brads, Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust"

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Snowflake Dies, SU! Dimensionals

You can check out the rest of the DT's creations here. I would love to see what you do with this sketch...give it a try!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Creative Card Crew: Merry Christmas from Claus

2011-11-22T00:00:00.003-06:00

Hello there! It's time for another challenge from the Creative Card Crew; this fortnight our challenge is "monochromatic" and our sponsor is Paper Pretties, who provided me with this adorable image. Isn't Claus just the cutest?

I printed my image on Sahara Sand and colored just a portion of it; I like how the red/green really stand out against the S.S. and black. I dotted Claus' with a gel pen and added a bit of glitter to his hat. I finished the card with a simple holly embellishment.

Image: Paper Pretties Digital Image

Paper: SU! Sahara Sand, PTI True Black, Fancy Pants Designs DP

Ink: Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: Dress It Up Holly, Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust"

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone

Please head on over to the Creative Card Crew blog so you can check out the rest of the DT's goodies. Would love to see you play along too!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Bellarific Friday...on a Saturday....

2011-11-19T05:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning! I'm a bit late with the Bellarific Friday challenge, but thought I would post my card anyway. I really wanted to play along because it was a sketch this week. The sketch had a pieced panel in the background, but I let my paper do the work for me since it looks "pieced" already. The paper is one of my favorites (an oldie, but goodie); I just distressed it a bit to add some extra dimension. The image is paper pieced and colored with pencils, then I added a bit of subtle glitter to the ornaments and star. I like how this one turned out!

Image: Stamping Bella

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and True Black, SU! Cherry Cobbler, Making Memories DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, Black Grosgrain Ribbon

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Making Memories Distressing Tool, SU! Dimensionals

Thanks for stopping by; enjoy your weekend!

Angela

TMS#120

2011-11-15T05:00:00.002-06:00

Good morning! It's time for another fun sketch at the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog. Our sponsor this week is The Stamping Boutique. This week is the monthly Judged Challenge; in addition to the sketch, there is the added challenge of "giving thanks". So pull out your stamps and create a thank you card...you just may win a prize!

I tell you, I had a hard time coming up with a plan this week. I changed my mind a few timesbut when I came across this DP, I knew I wanted to use it. It's a unique color combination, but I like it! I paired it with some dies and simple stamps, then finished it off with a bit of bling.

Stamps: PTI "It's Official" and "Take Three Spring"

Paper: PTI Aqua Mist and Smokey Shadow, SU! More Mustard and Sahara Sand, Prima DP

Ink: PTI Smokey Shadow, SU! Sahara Sand

Embellies: PTI Ocean Tides Button, Swarovski Flatback Crystals in "Topaz" and "Black Diamond"

Extras: PTI Felt, Ocean Tides and Smokey Shadow, The Cat's Pajamas Felt (mustard), PTI Scallop Edge Die and Dressform Die, Cheery Lynn Designs Fanciful Flourish Die, MFT Die-namics Rolled Flower Die, The Cat's Pajamas Cut-Ups Button Flower Die (leaves)

I hope you'll visit the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to see the DT's beautiful creations...I can't wait to see them myself!

Thanks for stopping by; have a great day!

Angela

SC358: Baked with (heart)!!

2011-11-10T05:00:00.001-06:00

Good morning! Yesterday I was able to work the SCS sketch challenge into my day off. I generally try to keep the measurements of my card as close to the sketch as possible, so I go on the hunt for a stamp that will "fit". My Changitos and Calendar Chicks are my "go to" stamps, so I decided to use this fun image. Luckily, I found some fun DP in my stash too!

Changito is colored with pencils and his eyes are accented with a black gel pen. The heart in the sentiment is accented with a bit of glitter. I added some brads, seam binding and a charm to complete my card.

Image/Sentiment: Stampendous "Changito Baker" Clear Set

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream and Dark Chocolate, SU! Baja Breeze, Moxie DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, Spare Parts Brads, SU! Seam Binding, Karen Foster Charm

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Thanks for stopping by today; have a good one!

Angela

TMS#119

2011-11-08T05:00:00.004-06:00

Note: Second post today...scroll down for Creative Card Crew Challenge.

Hello again! Since it's Tuesday, it's time for another sketch from Tuesday Morning Sketches; this fun one was created by Kathleen. Our sponsor this week is There She Goes; you can check out the store's goodies here.

As I was trying to decide what to make this week, I noticed the PTI onesie stamp on my table...it was already mounted on a block, so I thought I would just go with it. The onesie is really fun to paper piece! After stamping the onesie and cutting it out, I colored the pink trim and added just a touch of glitter. I used dies for the oval (right side), doily and scallop border. I did a bit of distressing and finished the card with some twill and Bella Dots.

Image: PTI Bitty Baby Blessings

Paper: SU! Blushing Bride, PTI Dark Chocolate, Canvas Corp. DP, PTI Chocolate Remix Collection (text for onesie)

Ink: Palette Burnt Umber

Embellies: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, PTI Dark Chocolate Twill, Bella Dots in "Chocolate"

Extras: Crayola Colored Pencil, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, PTI Doily Die, MFT Die-namics Scallop Border Die, Making Memories Distressing Tool, SU! Dimensionals

You can check out the rest of the DT's fun creations here. I hope you'll make time to play along this week so I can see your take on the sketch!

I am also entering this card in the following challenges:

Crafty Cardmakers: Pink, brown and cream

Heart Song Inspirations: Anything goes

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Creative Card Crew Challenge

2011-11-07T23:59:00.001-06:00

Good morning! Our new challenge at the Creative Card Crew is "Thankful". Since Thanksgiving is right around the corner, I chose to go with a Thanksgiving theme. Our sponsor for this challenge is Simon Says Stamp.
The image is colored with pencils, cut out with a Spellbinder's die, then popped up for definition. I kept it simple and used brads for embellishing. I don't know about you, but I am really looking forward to enjoying turkey and pumpkin pie with my family! I'm thankful to have the holiday off this year.

Image: Stamping Bella

Sentiment: SU!

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Fine Linen, SU! Cherry Cobbler, Imaginisce DP

Embellies: Spare Parts Brads

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, SU! Dimensionals

You can check out the rest of the DT's creations here...we would love to see you play along!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Bellarific Friday

2011-11-04T07:27:00.003-05:00

Good Friday morning! I combined the challenge on Blogabella (snowflakes) with a sketch challenge, a challenge to use 4 embellishments (let me tell you, that wasn't easy!), and a challenge to use some sparkle (LOVE sparkle!).

The image is colored with pencils and accented with glitter. I diecut, glittered, and layered some Spellbinder's snowflakes for my main embellishment, topping it with a Bella Dot and Swarovski crystal. I like the look of the glitz paired with the Kraft DP.

Image: Stamping Bella

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Dark Chocolate, SU! Cherry Cobbler, Jillibean Soup DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Embellies: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Polar Bear", PTI Dark Chocolate Twill, Bella Dots in "Chocolate", Swarovski Flatback Crystals in "AB"

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinders Dies, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I'm entering this card in the following challenges:

Bellarific Friday: Snowflakes

Cards and More: Sketch

CCEE Stampers: 4 Embellishments (Twill, Glitter-2 kinds, Bella Dots, Swarovski Crystals, Diecut Snowflakes

Papertake Weekly Challenge: Anything Goes (plus a bit of bling, if you want)

The Purple Frog Challenge: Sparkle

Thanks for stopping by today! Have a great day and enjoy your weekend!

Angela

Twice Blessed

2011-11-03T07:46:00.004-05:00

Good morning! Today I have the third card I made for my co-worker...I had forgotten I hadn't uploaded it. This on is super clean and simple! I paper pieced 2 onsies and adhered them to a diecut, added beads, some ribbon, and popped up the image panel. Voila'!

Image: PTI Bitty Baby Blessings

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, SU! Bashful Blue, SU! Delicate Dots DSP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, SU! Black Marker

Embellies: Alphabet Beads (Hobby Lobby), Black Gingham Ribbon (my stash)

Extras: Spellbinders Nestabilities Die, DMC Floss

That's all for today; thanks for stopping by!

Angela

TMS#118

2011-11-01T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good morning Tuesday Morning Sketches fans! Melissa has another fun sketch for you this week. Our sponsor is Robyn's Fetish, you can check out her goodies here.

As I was looking through my stamps in search of inspiration, I came across this fun Stampendous stamp and decided I would make a baby card. I love making baby cards! I colored the image with pencils and accented the heart on the baby chick's bib with glitter. The image is cut out with Spellbinder's Nestabilities and popped up. I used some brads for embellishing...I thought the buttons were perfect for the baby theme.

Image: Stampendous Calendar Chicks

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream and Smokey Shadow, October Afternoon DP, The Paper Studio Vellum

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, Making Memories "Button" Brads, Spare Parts Brads

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

You can find the rest of the DT's creations here. I would love to see YOU play along too...it's a fun sketch with a lot of possibilities!

Thanks for stopping by today!

Angela

Halloween Kitty

2011-10-30T11:21:00.005-05:00

Good Sunday morning! I received the cutest Mo Manning image from my S.S. and when I realized the month was coming to an end, I decided I better get busy! I have to admit I was a bit intimidated to color the image, but I like how it turned out.

The image is colored with Prismas and the mask is accented with fine glitter...it adds a nice, soft sparkle. I used a circle punch to remove a portion of the corner so my button would fit, then popped the image up. I layered a couple of buttons and used some Swarovki flatbacks for a bit of extra sparkle.

Image: Mo Manning Digital Stamp

Paper: G.P. 110, PTI Plum Pudding and True Black, We R Memory Keepers DP

Embellies: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, PTI Buttons, Swarovski Flatback Crystals in "Black Diamond"

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, SU! 1 1/4" Circle Punch, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I am entering this card in the following challenges:

Bronte and Bella's Challenge: Any Holiday or Celebration

Just Some Lines: Halloween

Secret Crafter's Saturday Challenge: Spooky or Whimsical

Wee Memories: Brads, Buttons or Bows

Thanks for stopping by today; enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Angela

you're ONE in a million

2011-10-28T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good Friday morning! My card today features a vintage gumball machine that I thought would go perfectly with the Basic Grey "Out of Print" DP that I have been using lately. I LOVE this line...it is nice and shabby with such eclectic patterns.

The image is colored with silver and dark gray with just a pop of red for the gumball; I applied Crystal Effects to the gumball, so it is nice and shiny. The papers are distressed and I added some brads on the image panel for embellishing.

Image: Stamping Bella "Vintage Gumball Machine" (sentiment included)

Paper: SU! Naturals White and Cherry Cobbler, Basic Grey DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Embellies: Spare Parts Brads, Crystal Effects

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Making Memories Distressing Tool

I am entering this card in the following challenges:

Bellarific Friday: Stripes

Charisma Cardz Challenges: Anything Goes

Jen del Muro's Sketch For You To Try: October

Ruby's Rainbow: Metal

Simon Says Stamp: Anything Goes

Thanks for stopping by today!

Angela

Fight Like a Girl

2011-10-25T05:00:00.002-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! I'm back with another sketch challenge from Tuesday Morning Sketches.

I went for a bit of a different look with this card; I paired the shabby, distressed papers with crisp white and pearls...I like the contrast. I received the cute image from my Secret Sister and decided to color just the pink areas. For embellishing, I diecut a flower and added some pearls.

Image: Whimsie Doodles Digital Stamp

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, SU! Blushing Bride, Basic Grey DP

Embellie: Pearls by The Beadery

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, Tim Holtz "Tattered Flowers" Sissix Die, SU! Dimentionals

Our sponsor this week is Tiffany Doodles and we continue to challenge you to use pink in your card. You can check our the rest of the Design Teams' cards here; I hope you will play along!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Creative Card Crew

2011-10-25T00:00:00.001-05:00

Good morning! I am happy to announce that I have been asked to design for the Creative Card Crew. Challenges are held bi-weekly, so you will have 2 weeks in which to play along. I want to extend my gratitude to Mari and the rest of the ladies for making me feel welcome!

Our sponsor this week is The Paper Shelter. The image I'm using today is called "Kisses" and our theme is "Fallin' for You/Romance".

I thought this Basic Grey DP (one of my favorites) fit the theme perfectly! The image is colored with pencils, diecut and mounted with Nestabilities. I kept the layout simple to let the darling image shine...I just added a bit of red bling.

Image: The Paper Shelter

Paper: G.P. 110, PTI Lemon Tart and Smokey Shadow, Basic Grey DP

Embellies: Me and My Big Ideas Bling

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Here's a link to the Creative Card Crew blog; you can check out the rest of the Design Teams' creations. I'd love to see you play along with us!

Thanks for stopping by today!

Angela

Twin Baby Boys

2011-10-23T05:00:00.001-05:00

Here's another card I made for the Mom-to-be of twin boys. I used one of my favorite Stamping Bella images...love to paper piece this one! The sentiment is computer generated, and I used some Bella Dots for embellishing.

Image: Stamping Bella

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Smokey Shadow, SU! DSP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, SU! Black Marker

Embellies: Bella Dots

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, SU! Dimensionals

I'm entering this card in the following challenges:

CES Challenges: New Beginnings

Ruby's Rainbow: Cute and Cuddly

Wee Memories: Free for All

That's it for now...I hope to get some crafty time today....

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

For The Mom-To-Be....

2011-10-21T05:00:00.003-05:00

Good Friday morning! I was asked to make a card for a baby shower...the mom-to-be is expecting twins! I made 3 cards total; will share the others later. With my first card, I wanted to focus on the mom-to-be. I thought of this cute A Muse stamp that is perfect for paper piecing. I paired it with some DP I've had in my stash for a long time (love the pretty paisley!), added some punched flowers and Swarovski crystals to give it a bit of extra sparkle. Inside the card is a white panel that reads:

Expecting JOY...

...TWIN boys!

Image: A Muse

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Dark Chocolate, The Paper Studio DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, SU! Black Marker

Embellies: Swarovski Flatback Crystals

Extras: EK Success Flower Punches

I'm entering my card in this challenge: Ruby's Rainbow: Cute and Cuddly

Thanks for stopping by today; enjoy your weekend!

Angela

Hope....

2011-10-18T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! It's time for another Tuesday Morning Sketches challenge. My card measures 5"x7" and I flipped the sketch; I also went with pink since that is our challenge all month long. Not hard for me to do, since I love pink!

Sentiment: Wordsworth

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Paper: SU! Pretty in Pink, PTI True Black, Basic Grey DP, The Paper Studio Vellum

Embellies: Swarovski Flatback Crystals, Maya Road Leaf Stickpins, Wrights Black Grosgrain Ribbon

Extras: Spellbinder's Nestabilities, MFT Die-namics Large Rolled Rose Die, MFT Felt, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I hope you will head on over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to see what the rest of the DT has created with our sketch. I would love to see you play along...don't forget to use pink!

I am also entering this card in Heart Song Inspirations: Flowers and/or Felt challenge.

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Birthday Cupcakes

2011-10-17T13:11:00.003-05:00

Hello! How is your Monday going? I took a bit of time to relax, after working the weekend, by making a clean and simple card. I turned to my favorite little monkey...Changito! He is whipping up some birthday cupcakes...yum! Extra frosting for me, please!

I stamped a row of cupcakes, colored them, scored some lines for definition, then added a bit of glitter to the flames. I enhanced Changito's eyes with a gel pen, cut him out and mounted him with Nestabilities dies and popped him up. Easy peasy!

Stamps: Stampendous "Changito Baker" Clear Set

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Berry Sorbet

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: Doodlebug Glitter

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Scor-Pal, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I am entering this card in the following challenges:

Karen's Doodles: Animal Antics

Make it Monday: Anything Goes

The Pink Elephant: Scoring

Thanks for stopping by today!

Angela

Stella and Her Broomstick

2011-10-14T10:01:00.010-05:00

Good morning and "Happy Friday"...Bellarific Friday, that is! The challenge for this week was Halloween, so I decided to go with Stella. This cute stamp was sitting in my stash uninked, so she needed a bit of love....

Stella is colored with pencils and accented with glitter...of course, I didn't forget her lipstick; I am thinking she loves it as much as I do! LOL I'm really not sure why I came up with the crazy idea to cut her out, but as soon as I started I was doubting my judgement...it took me forever! I used a bunch of diecuts and some Swarovski flatbacks to finish the card.

Image: Stamping Bella "Stella and Her Broomstick"

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, True Black, and Plum Pudding, SU! Pumpkin Pie, We R Memory Keepers DP, The Paper Studio Black Glitter Paper

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: Doodlebug Glitter, Swarovski Flatback Crystals in "Light Amethyst"

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, MFT Die-namics Cloud Die, MFT Felt, Martha Stewart Bat Punch

I am entering this card in the following challenges:

Designer's Choice Challenge (DCC1012): Halloween/Fall

Simon Says....: Halloween/Goth

Creative Card Crew: Spooky Fun

Thanks for stopping by today!

Angela

Paper Smooches...Hot Stuff

2011-10-13T12:56:00.004-05:00

Happy Thursday! I have a CAS card to share with you today using Paper Smooches stamps by Kim Hughs...love them!

For the card base: first I made a border using a sentiment, next I stamped a heart on top, last I added some scored lines. For the focal point: I paper pieced the image, added some googlie eyes, and mounted the image on DP cut with Spellbinder's dies. I popped the image up and voila'...a Halloween hottie! I just may give this to my DH....

I am entering this card in the following challenges:

Wee Memories #71: Halloween or Fall themed (sponsored by Paper Smooches)

Crafts and Me #56: Orange

CAS Sunday Challenge #23: Anything goes

Simon Says....: Halloween/Goth

Images: Paper Smooches "Falling for You"

Sentiment: Paper Smooches "Vegtastic"

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and True Black, Teresa Collins "Haunted Halloween" DP

Embellies: Googlie Eyes

Extras: Scor-Pal, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Thanks for stopping by today; I hope you're having a great week!

Angela

TMS#115: Inspiration Challenge, Plus Pink

2011-10-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning! It's time for another fun challenge from Tuesday Morning Sketches. Today it is an inspiration challenge and our sponsor is Sassy Studio Designs (love their images!) When I saw the tote bag, I thought of a gorgeous floral/strip DP combo in my stash and knew it would be perfect. However, when I received my image I had to make a new plan...my autumn DP just didn't jive with the winter theme! So, I had a winter image, an autumn tote bag, and I had to add pink to the mix.... Hmmm.... This is what I came up with....

The elements I took from the photo were the touch of brown and the square shape of the tote bag. I have had this October Afternoon paper in my stash and knew it would be perfect...I love pink for a winter card...nice and quirky!

The image is colored with pencils and I added a bit of subtle glitter to the fur on Honey's outfit. I did a bit of sponging and diecutting, added some Baker's Twine and Bella Dots and called it good. I think Honey is gorgeous and she was really fun to color; here's a close-up of her pretty face. Love her eyes!

Image: Studio Sassy Designs Digital Stamp

Ink: Pallette Burnt Umber

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream and Dark Chocolate, SU! Melon Mambo, October Afternoon DP, The Paper Studio Vellum

Embellies: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, Bella Dots in "Chocolate", PTI Baker's Twine in "Chocolate"

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Dies, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I used the sketch from Card Patterns, but I flipped it. Did you notice that I switched up the panels? By mistake! The upper left section should be the smallest one; when I flipped the pieces over to tape them together I must have forgot to reverse them. It turned out okay though...I think the big, pink snowflake looks good on the cream background.

You can check out the rest of the DT's cards here. Now it's your turn! I would love to see what you come up with using the inspiration photo and the color pink....

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

***I just realized I did a major faux pas and didn't use our TMS sketch! Didn't realize there was one until I read Melissa's blogpost from today.... My bad....

More Halloween....

2011-10-08T21:38:00.008-05:00

Good morning! I have been in a bit of a creative funk lately...I just havn't felt like stamping. I play around on the computer looking for ideas and sit at my table, but I just don't get anything accomplished. When I saw this cute card of Wanda's, I just knew I had to play along with the challenge. I even used the same sketch she did.... I also loved the way Kathleen placed her bats on this card, so I had to give that a try too.... Thanks for the inspiration ladies!

I used my My Mind's Eye Mischievous paper pad...love that paper! I love how they added a subtle touch of blue...so unexpected! I took my cue from the paper and colored Fluffles orange and accented her hat with blue. I used a liberal dose of glitter...let's just face it...glitter makes me feel good! LOL I don't mind the mess and I didn't even care when I looked down and my lap was covered with it.... I also used a lot of diecuts on this card...Spellbinder's, Martha Stewart, MFT Die-namics...I like that they are fast and easy. I felt like I needed a bit more blue to pull everything together with the blue card base, so I added a few Swarovski flatbacks.

Here's a close up of the diecuts and yummy glitter.

Image: Stampendous "Fluffles Broomstick"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream, SU! Baja Breeze and Tangerine Tango, My Mind's Eye DP, The Paper Studio Black Glitter CS

Embellies: Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust", Swarovski Flatback Crystals in "Aquamarine"

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, Martha Stewart Bat Punch, MFT Die-namics Cloud Dies, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I am entering this card in Raise the Bar's Challenge #78 which is "Furry Friends". I have had this Fluffles stamp sitting on the table for quite some time and knew right away it would be perfect!

2 Sisters - #60 Halloween

Challenge Up Your Life - #54 Halloween

Secret Crafter - #155 Anything goes as long as it sparkles

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

"Hey Chickie" Revision

2011-10-06T05:19:00.006-05:00

Good morning! As I was making my TMS card this week, I was thinking I could utilize another coordinating DP by turning it into a square card...there would also be more room to write a message inside.

I simply added a square card base, distressed DP, some ribbon, and another felt flower diecut. This one is my favorite...which one do you like better?

Image: Stampendous

Sentiment: DeNami

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream and Smokey Shadow, My Mind's Eye DP

Embellies: Swarovski Flatback Crystals in "Topaz", Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust"

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, MFT Die-namics "Upsey Daisies" Die, The Cat's Pajamas Felt, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, Making Memories Distressing Tool

Today is my first day of a little stretch off work; I am hoping to break out of my craft funk and get busy creating!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

TMS#114

2011-10-04T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! It's time for another fun challenge at the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog.... We have a unique twist this week...a circular card. I have to admit, I have only made a couple of these....

I've been a Halloween-a-thon (as my blogging friend Amy would say) so I continued with that theme and pulled out one of the Calendar Chicks. She's so darn cute with her little treat bag! I colored her with Prismas and added a bit of glitter. I did some distressing, added a die cut flower and some Swarovski flatback crystals to finish it off.

Image: Stampendous

Sentiment: DeNami

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream and Smokey Shadow, My Mind's Eye DP

Embellies: Swarovski Flatback Crystals in "Topaz", Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust"

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, MFT Die-namics "Upsey Daisies" Die, The Cat's Pajamas Felt, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, Making Memories Distressing Tool

I can't wait to see the DT's circular cards...you can check them out here. Our sponsor this week is One Stop Cards...play along for a chance to win a prize!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Well, Hello!

2011-09-28T05:00:00.000-05:00

I thought the colors from The Cat's Pajamas Tuesday challenge looked like fun, so I thought I'd play along. I found some SU! DP that worked perfectly and I decided to go with this cute bunny...one last nod to the summer that has come and gone. How can it be fall already?!

The image is colored with pencils and I paper pieced some of the pinwheels. I ran the image panel through the Cuttlebug to add a bit of texture and added some felt grass for more texture. (The grass was actually scraps I had sitting on the table...isn't it great when you get the opportunity to use up scraps?) I used some tiny brads in the center of the pinwheels along with a black gel pen for the bunny's eyes. I stamped my sentiment on DP and paired it with a rosette made from a TCP CutUps die...they really are easy to make. I topped the rosette with a button tied off with Divine Twine.

Image: The Cat's Pajamas

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Smokey Shadow, SU! Rich Razzleberry, SU! DSP Cottage Wall

Embellies: Spare Parts Mini Brads, PTI Ripe Avocado Button, Devine Twine in Oyster

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, Cuttlebug Swiss Dots Embossing Folder, TCP Easy Rosette CutUps die, MFT Die-namics Grass Die/Felt

I used Jen del Muro's September Sketch For You To Try...it was a good one, I'm sure I'll be using it again.

Thanks for stopping by today!

Angela

TMS#113

2011-09-27T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good Tuesday Morning! Good grief...I see I havn't posted since last Tuesday! Have had some extra things going on at home; we are building an addition so we've been busy planning, meeting with contractors, etc. I need to take more time to get crafty though...it's good for my mental health!

Back to the card here.... Our sponsor this week is There She Goes stamps. I checked out their website and they have some cute stamps; no order for me yet though, the sets I wanted were out of stock. I decided to go with Fluffles paired with some new My Mind's Eye Mischievous DP...I just love making Halloween cards! How about you?

Fluffles is colored with Prismas; her eyes are dotted with a black gel pen and I added some glitter to her hat and brew. I distressed the edges of the DP, added some diecuts, black ribbon and a couple of stickpins. The stickpins were actually and add-on.... I realized I had cut my ribbon too short to tie a knot, so I just twisted it and secured it with pins....voila'! I like how the subtle crystals mimic the glitter.

Image: Stampendous

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream and True Black, SU! Cajun Craze (?), My Mind's Eye DP, The Paper Studio Black Glitter CS

Embellies: Wright's Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Maya Road Stickpins, Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, Martha Stewart Bat Punch, Making Memories Distressing Tool, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I invite you to hop on over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to see the rest of the DT's goodies. We would love to have you join us and play along too...it's a great sketch this week...give it a try!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

TMS#112

2011-09-20T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning! I have another fun sketch, from the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog, to share today. This one was drawn by Melissa and has lots of possibilities!

I decided to go the Halloween route, since it's almost the season and I love making Halloween cards. I used some new DP...love the non traditional colors...and a fun Changito. Changito is colored with pencils and his eyes are dotted with a black gel pen; I added a bit of glitter to his pumpkin's eyes. I diecut some black felt clouds and a moon, then finished it off with some black Bella Dots.

Image: Stampendous

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: SU! Naturals White, Baja Breeze, and Elegant Eggplant, We R Memory Keepers DP

Embellies: Bella Dots, Doodlebug Glitter

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, MFT Die-namics Cloud Die, SU! Dimensionals

Here's a link to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog so you can check out the sketch and the rest of the Design Team's creations. I would love to see what you come up with using this sketch!

Thanks for stopping by; have a great day!

Angela

Fluffles Eeeeekk!!!

2011-09-15T05:00:00.001-05:00

I was able to play along with the SCS sketch challenge yesterday and this is what I came up with. I knew I wanted to go with a Halloween theme, but wanted to do something a bit different than the traditional black...so I tried cream. It looks a bit less "spooky", although I have to say I love spooky! Just something different for a change of pace....

The image is colored with pencils and the pumpkin face and candy are coated with glitter. I used a black gel pen for Fluffles and the the mouse's eyes. I inked the edges of the panels, and finished with some ribbon and Bella Dots.

Image: Stampendous

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, PTI Vintage Cream, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream, SU! Vintage Violet, My Mind's Eye DP

Embellies: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, Bella Dots, PTI Vintage Cream Twill, Cream Organdy (my stash)

Extras: Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

TMS#111

2011-09-13T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! It's time for another fun challenge over at the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog. Kathleen has drawn our sketch this week and it's a good one!

I decided to go with a Halloween theme and used some of my favorite DP that I have been hoarding. Never mind that I have quite a bit of much newer Halloween DP to choose from...there is just something about this particular paper that speaks to me! I really am going to be sad when I use it all up....

Bella is colored with pencils and I added some glitter to the pumpkin face and her boots. I used an MFT die for the scallops, added some ribbon and a few Bella Dots. This is a fun sketch...I'll have to try it again.

Image: Stamping Bella

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and True Black, SU! Pumpkin Pie, Wild Wasabi, and Lovely Lilac, KI Memories DP

Embellies: Wright's Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Bella Dots, Doodlebug Glitter (black), Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, MFT Die-namics Scallop Border Die, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I hope you will head on over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to check out all of the DT's cards. Better yet, play along! This week is a judged challenge and we want to see your creations!

Thanks for stopping by; enjoy your day!

Angela

Bellarific Friday

2011-09-09T10:17:00.005-05:00

Good morning and happy Friday! Today's challenge on Blogabella was animals, along with patterned paper. As I was looking through my stamps, I came across Butch and Mimi and knew they would be perfect!

After choosing my DP, I decided to leave my image uncolored...I like the way it mimics the black/cream in the DP. I added just a bit of color (along with some glitter!) to their bows...just for fun! I added a bit of PTI Raspberry Fizz to the mix along with a felt flower and vine diecut.

Image: Stamping Bella

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream, True Black, and Raspberry Fizz, Fancy Pants Designs DP

Embellies: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, Embossing Arts Glitter (pink), Swarovski Flatback Crystal in Jet

Extras: Crayola Colored Pencils, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, MFT Die-namics "Rolled Flower" Die, Cheery Lynn Designs "Fanciful Flourish" Die, PTI Felt in Raspberry Fizz, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Well, that's all for today. I placed an order with DeNami Designs and received the cutest package of chicks...all kinds of chicks...doing all kinds of fun things! Maybe I will sit down today and play with them.... Stay tuned....

Thanks for stopping by! Enjoy your weekend!

Angela

TMS#110

2011-09-06T05:27:00.003-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! It's time for another challenge at the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog. Our sketch this week is drawn by DT member Jessica, and our sponsor is Bugaboo Stamps who has a huge variety of fun stamps to suit everyone's taste. Great sketch and fun stamps...what more could a stamper want?

I chose this cute little gal called "Thanksgiving Girl"; I like her sweet, country look. I printed her on DP, then again on CS before coloring her with pencils. I cut her out, adhered her to the DP and applied a bit of black gel pen to her eyes. I added some ribbons, a leaf diecut and a button to finish the card. I like the fall DP with the unexpected bit of blue...such a pretty color combo!

Stamp: Bugaboo "Thanksgiving Girl" Digital Stamp

Ink: Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: SU! Pumpkin Pie, PTI Dark Chocolate, Imaginisce DP

Embellies: SU! Chocolate Grosgrain Ribbon, PTI Dark Chocolate Baker's Twine, Button (my stash)

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, PTI Leaf Die, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I'd love to see you play along this week; the prize is 7 digital stamps from Bugaboo Stamps...how awesome is that? Here's a link to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog so you can check out the rest of the DT's fun creations.

Thanks for stopping by; have a great day!

Angela

Cancer Fundraiser Tree

2011-09-05T08:08:00.004-05:00

Good morning and happy Labor Day! I want to welcome a couple of new followers...Jan and Terri! True confession time...I am tickled pink to have people interested enough to follow my humble blog, so thanks to you all for stopping by!

I wanted to share a picture of the tree I made for a local fundraiser that was held Saturday. The fundraiser is organized by a family who lost a loved one to pancreatic cancer and the proceeds are donated. The deceased was a sportsman, so it's a walk, run, wag combined with a basket raffle.

Although my tree isn't a basket, it is included in the raffle. I make the ornaments and have done many different themes; this year I decided to go with a dog theme. The bones are made out of felt and the dog is made out of a plush fleece. He is nice and floppy so you can "pose" him if you wish. I added lights, red glitter balls, silver jingle bells, ribbon, and some homespun plaid as a tree skirt. I sent a bag of extra ornaments including a silver beaded garland for the winner. That way, they can keep it simple or jazz it up a bit if that is their taste.

I had a little mishap while searching in the attic for supplies. DH "helped" in the attic by rearranging things and tidying up. I had planned to make a snowangel tree and knew where the pattern was...before DH's help. In my search for my supplies I hit my head on a thick, wooden beam. It's more than a week later and I still have a headache. Thankfully I had 4 days off before I had to go back to work, but when I went back, I found out I likely had a concussion. Good grief! How embarassing to be so clumsy! Anyway, since I couldn't find the snowangel pattern I switched gears and went with the dog theme.

I also made a basket of cards to donate. This year I had 56; next year I would like to have 100. When I mass produce cards, I save one in a special place and let them accumulate throughout the year.

Here's a picture of the decorated tree. The light cord was very short, so I didn't get a great shot. It's a bit hard to see the lights in the daylight too.

Thanks for stopping by today; I hope your Labor Day is a good one!

Angela

Bellarific Friday...A Little Early....

2011-08-30T16:33:00.005-05:00

Hello again! I usually don't post twice in one day, but I realized that August is almost over and I need to squeeze in this months SFYTT! Boy, I am cutting it close!

The challenge for Bellarific Friday this week is back-to-school and I combined the two challenges. It's amazing to see how much the kids have grown when it's time to get those back-to-school clothes. My Ivy, who just turned 13, has been taller than me for quite some time now...she even wears a bigger shoe! My Davis, age 11, is not far behind....

Image: Stamping Bella

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and True Black, SU! Daffodil Delight and Ruby Red, Simple Stories DP

Embellies: Ribbon Trends Twill, Maya Road Stick Pins

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Felt (The Cat's Pajamas), MFT Rolled Rose Die, Spellbinders

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

TMS#109

2011-08-30T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! It's time for another fun sketch from Tuesday Morning Sketches. I decided to go with a back-to-school theme and broke out some fun papers that I found on my last venture into a scrapbook store (a rare occasion for me, since we don't have any here!). The DP is by Simple Stories and I love it! It was the first time I had seen it, so I went a little crazy and took home a bunch of different patterns!

Image: Stampendous Calendar Chick

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, PTI Smokey Shadow, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Smokey Shadow, SU! Ruby Red

Embellies: Assorted PTI Buttons, Gray Grosgrain Ribbon (my stash)

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, PTI Flower Die and Felt, DMC Floss, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I was thinking, after I finished the card, that I cropped the image too close.... Do you ever do that? Gosh darn it, I hate it when that happens! I think my problem is that I don't want to cover the pretty DP! LOL

I hope you will hop on over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to check out the rest of the DT's cards. How about playing along with us this week?

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

More CAS....

2011-08-29T07:43:00.004-05:00

Good morning! I'm back with some color/sentiment variations on a card I posted a few days ago. I'm in the process of putting together a basket of cards to donate for a fundraiser, so I thought I could whip up some more of these cards. Of course, I don't just make one for the basket, I make 6 so I can have extra for my family and friends.

I have had some requests for sympathy cards, so I used a sympathy sentiment on the first one. I paired it with PTI Lavendar Moon, Plum Pudding and Dark Chocolate.

For this card I used PTI Hibiscus Burst and Pure Poppy...I love the combo of pink and red...I think it's so fresh and pretty!

This is the first card I made in the pink/red combo...I felt it just wasn't "right". I decided to crop the sentiment panel...it's amaing how much nicer it looks! Not so "clunky", more dainty.

I better get to work.... I need to decorate my tree for the fundraiser and make more cards! Will post photos later. Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

TMS#108

2011-08-23T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! We have another fun sketch this week, which was drawn by Jessica! Like I said, it's a fun sketch, but I was a bit stumped at first.... Finally I decided I could showcase some pretty DP and little "trinkets".... The stamping was kept to a minimum on this card...just the sentiment.

I bought some of the new Basic Grey "Out of Print" DP on my last trip to Archiver's. What a great line; it's funky, eclectic, and the colors are fabulous! I chose a couple of patterns, added some vellum circles and filled them with assorted embellies. This card reminds me a bit of the 80's with the pink and black color scheme.

Sentiment: SU!

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Paper: SU! Blushing Bride, PTI True Black, Basic Grey DP, The Paper Studio Vellum

Embellies: Making Memories Charms, Pink Button (my stash), Swarovski Flatback Crystals in "Lt. Rose", SU! Black Grosgrain Ribbon

Extras: Spellbinder's Nestabilities, Die-namics Rolled Rose Die, MFT Felt, DMC Floss

Here's a link to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog so you can check out the sketch for yourself and see all the goodies the DT has created. I hope you will play along too!

Thanks for stopping by today; have a good one!

Angela

CAS CASE

2011-08-21T06:57:00.002-05:00

Good Sunday morning! I've been working on some clean and simple cards to fill my basket, and to donate to a cancer fundraiser. I CASE'd this from Paper Crafts Card Creations, Special Occasions, Volume 2. The original card is on page 21 and designed by Maile Belles. These were super quick to put together; I think I spent the most time tying the ribbons.

Stamps: SU! "From the Garden" and "Upsy Daisy"

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and SU! Crushed Curry

Ink: SU! Crushed Curry and Memento Tuxedo Black

Embellies: PTI Buttons, White Satin Ribbon (my stash)

Thanks for stopping by; I hope you are enjoying your weekend!

Angela

TMS#107

2011-08-16T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning! It's time for another challenge from the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog...this week we not only have a sketch, but a color challenge as well...blue and green. I'm really glad I took a second glance at the challenge, because I had forgotten about the blue and green and had pink, red, and cream paper laid out!

Our sponsor this week is Stampfairy. I just love Gerda's images; her bears are adorable! The image I received to work with is called Barry Winter 1. I love that Lenny is paired with a snowman, since it gave me the opportunity to break out the glitter!

The image is colored with pencils and highlighted with a black gel pen and glitter. I added an embossed panel, some ribbons and a layered snowflake. The DP has a lovely golden shimmer!

Note: In the photograph the greens clash, but in real life they are a perfect match. I wonder if the iridescent paper is the culprit?

Image: Stampfairy Digital Stamp

Paper: G.P. 110, SU! Bashful Blue and Garden Green, Reminisce DP

Ink: Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: SU! Bashful Blue Grosgrain Ribbon, Making Memories Brad, Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Polar Bear"

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestablities, Cuttlebug Embossing Folder, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I hope you will hop on over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to see what the rest of the DT has created. Why not give it a try and play along too?!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

CAS Tulips

2011-08-15T07:58:00.003-05:00

Good Monday morning! I hope you had a terrific weekend!

Today I have a card to share that I made for a challenge with some SCS buddies. We all used the same image and our challenge was to do something different than your usual style. I went with clean and simple...it really was fun to do something different for a change of pace!

The flowers are colored with pencils, the edges of the panel are inked with an ink pad and last I spritzed the panel with my SU! spritzing tool (it's kind of fun...insert marker and squeeze the bulb!). I kept it simple with kraft CS, some ribbon and a button.

I have a question for you.... Do you used naked buttons or tie them off with thread or twine? Just curious....

Image: The Stamp Barn

Paper: SU! Whisper White, PTI Kraft

Ink: Tsukineko Graphite Black, Memento Tuxedo Black, SU! Black Marker

Embellies: Black/White Gingham Ribbon (Hobby Lobby), PTI Button, DMC Floss

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, SU! Color Spritzer Tool

That's all for today; tomorrow I'll be back with a fun challenge from Tuesday Morning Sketches.

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Frazzled Fluffles

2011-08-11T06:12:00.005-05:00

Good morning! I played along with the SCS sketch challenge yesterday. I wanted to work with something fun and quirky, so I looked through my Stampendous stamps until I found an image that would work. I think Fluffles rocks!

I used my Stamp-a-ma-jig to stamp a row of coffee cups at the bottom of the image panel. The images are colored with pencils and I added a couple of googlie eyes to Fluffles...don't you think they really make her look frazzled? I added a bit of ribbon and some Bella Dots and called it good.

Image/Sentiment: Stampendous

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Dark Chocolate, Lil' Davis Designs DP

Embellies: Bella Dots in "Chocolate", PTI Dark Chocolate Swiss Dot Ribbon, Googlie Eyes (Hobby Lobby)

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Thanks for stopping by today; have a good one!

Angela

15th Wedding Anniversary

2011-08-10T10:10:00.019-05:00

Good morning! My post today is not stamp related and contains lots of photos. It's my 15th wedding anniversary and I was looking through the wedding albums this morning and thought I would share some photos with you. They are not good quality, as I just snapped them in their frames or from the albums; the originals are much nicer.

Engagement photo; including my kitty Spot.

This one is a framed 16 x 20.

The wedding party in front of the church.

I wanted to show a photo of the back of my gown; I think the cut-out is so pretty. I loved my gown and still do today. I had some modifications made after it arrived. It had a huge bow on the back with dangling streamers...that was the first to go as soon as I tried it on! Ugh, I really didn't feel I need that on my backside.... I also had the train cut off and didn't wear the beaded lace arm things...they were kind of like gloves. It was August after all....

Zachary and Jennifer; they were so sweet and so good! Their Mom, Christy, was my matron of honor. Of course, they are grown up now!

Marlyn and his brothers; Lyle and Dan.

My "baby brother" Wade walking me down the isle. It was his 21st birthday that day...he looks so young! I had on really high heels; he is a good foot taller than I am.

The kids were all about the cake...it was almond flavored and really good!

Tyler is the best man's son; that is his Mom dancing with Marlyn. He was 2 here and is such a doll! He was so good at the reception; he had some balloons that he was shaking and dancing to the beat of the music. He is now a soccer star and received a scholarship for college.

I am wondering if "dollar dances" are popular in your area? They are big here! I "won" by raking in the most money...yay for me! We spent the money on our honeymoon. Stephanie, maid of honor and my sister, is pictured along with Tony the best man.

I loved my bouquet...my favorite flower is the gardenia..they smell so good! It was supposed to include Dutch baby irises, but they died in transit to the florist. I like how the photographer puts the rings in the flower to include them in the bouquet.

It was really a beautiful day. For August, the weather wasn't too hot and it was sunny. It downpoured shortly after we arrived to the reception, so we got lucky there. I didn't post any photos, but the DJ did something really fun at the dance. At the beginning he has the guests line up in a tunnel and he calls out the entire wedding party, just like they used to call out the players at the Chicago Bulls home games. There is a laser light show and it was so much fun to run down the tunnel and high five the guests. He would include your name/position in the wedding party, your occupation, and where you were from. Good memories for sure! Late at night, we had a sundae bar and baked treats for the guests; that was a big hit...although I missed that. After all the planning and organizing, it was really fun to just kick back and have fun!

I'm glad you stopped by today; thanks for allowing me to share a few good memories....

Angela

TMS#106

2011-08-09T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning! It's Tuesday, so that means it's time for another fun sketch at the

Tuesday Morning Sketches blog. Our sponsor this week is Chi Chi Memories , and they have provided me with this cute image that is perfect for this sketch!

The little gal is colored with pencils, cut out and placed on DP; I added a few clouds so it would look like she was really soaring through the sky. I used my distressing tool on the edges of the DP to add a bit of interest.

Image: Chi Chi Memories Digital Stamp

Sentiment: Pink Cat Studio

Ink: SU! Black Marker

Paper: G.P. 110, PTI Hibiscus Burst and Dark Chocolate, Bo Bunny DP

Embellies: Spare Parts Brads

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, SU! Oval Punch, MFT Die-namics Cloud Die, White Felt, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I hope you'll head on over to the blog to see what the rest of the DT has created for you...how about playing along too?!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Shabby Wedding Chicks

2011-08-04T06:31:00.003-05:00

Good morning! I've got a shabby, colorful wedding card to share today. I used the sketch from SCS and a fun mix of DP. The image is colored with pencils and accented with a black gel pen and glitter the edges of the papers are inked. I used the PTI doily edger die and the largest of the MFT mini rolled rose dies. (I will have to post pictures of all the sizes, there are 4; the little ones are so dainty and cute.)

Image: Stampendous Calendar Chicks "Wedding Chicks"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, PTI Chai and Chamomile, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: SU! Naturals White, PTI Fine Linen (card base) and True Black, Fancy Pants Designs DP

Embellies: Doodlebug Glitter, Swarovski Flatback Crystal (AB), Black Grosgrain Ribbon (my stash)

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, PTI Doily Edger Die, MFT Mini Rolled Rose Die, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I thought this was a fun sketch; while making this card I thought of a few variations so I might have to try them out too....

Today my oldest turns 13! I may compile a few pictures to post later....

Thanks for stopping by; have a great day!

Angela

TMS#105

2011-08-02T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! Tuesday means it's time for another sketch; this week our sketch was drawn by Kathleen. It's a fun one with lots of possibilities! I decided to go with one of the Peeps and some October Afternoon DP...a little coloring and paper piecing too....

Image/Sentiment: Stamping Bella "Knitting Peep"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: SU! Poppy Parade, PTI True Black, October Afternoon DP

Embellie: Black Grosgrain Ribbon (my stash)

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I thought this was a really versatile sketch...can't wait to see what the rest of the DT comes up with. Hop on over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to check them out! Better yet, I'd love to see what you come up with!

Thanks for stopping by; have a great week!

Angela

1 Card...3 Challenges!

2011-07-29T05:00:00.001-05:00

Hello and happy Friday! Today I've got a card to share that works for 3 challenges:

1. Bellarific Friday---Christmas Card

2. Creative Corner---All the B's---Black, Bling, Buttons, and Bows

3. Sweet Sunday Sketch Challenge

(I am really hoping that glitter counts as "bling"...please don't turn me in to the "Bling Patrol"! The red Santa hat has glittery trim and the black snowflakes are glittery as well. Also, the button and bow are on the large snowflake.)

Image: Stamping Bella

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and True Black, SU! Cherry Cobbler, Making Memories DP, The Paper Studio Black Glitter CS

Embellies: PTI Black Button, Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter, Cream Twine (my stash)

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, SU! Scallop Edge Punch, Spellbinders Snowflake Dies, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Thanks for stopping by today!

Angela

1 Card...2 Challenges!

2011-07-28T06:56:00.006-05:00

Good morning! I used the SCS Sketch Challenge when making this card for the Corrosive Challenge Blog's "All About Kids" challenge. Isn't it great when you can make 1 card and use it for 2 challenges? Score!

The little chick is colored with pencils and I added a bit of glitter to her party hat. The image is mounted on 2 scalloped ovals; I tried 1 and the image seemed to get lost on the card...number 2 seemed to do the trick. I used some of my all-time favorite DP...love the numbers...so appropriate for a birthday card!

Image: Stampendous "Party Hat Chick"

Sentiment: SU! "So Happy for You"

Ink: Palette Burnt Umber

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, Sweet Blush and Dark Chocolate, American Crafts DP

Embellie: Doodlebug Glitter

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, Corner Chomper, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Do any of you get migraines? I am on day 2 of a bad one; I'm exhausted but can't sleep! I tossed and turned and finally got up. Poor hubby...I think I was driving him nuts! I'm going to try reading a book to see if that will put me to sleep.... Anybody have any suggestions?

Thanks for stopping by; have a good day!

Angela

TMS#104

2011-07-26T05:00:00.003-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! Today I have a card to share that uses a fun technique...using dies to dry emboss. I like that it adds a bit of interest to a CAS card...it's easy too! Here's a tutorial if you'd like to give it a try.

First I dry embossed my card with a Spellbinder's die, next I stamped my image on DP before cutting it out with a coordinating die that was 1 size smaller. I added some grosgrain ribbon, popped up my image panel, and last added a button threaded with twine. It's a very simple card, but I like how it turned out. I think next time I may move the embossed panel up so there's more room for a sentiment at the bottom. I had forgotten how much I enjoy stamping with colored ink...it does all the work for you, so no time consuming coloring!

Images: SU! Branch Out

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, SU! First Edition DSP

Ink: SU! Chocolate Chip, Garden Green, Pear Pizzazz, and Real Red

Embellies: PTI Vintage Cream Grosgrain Ribbon, PTI Pure Poppy Button, Cream Twine (my stash)

Extras: Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Thanks for stopping by today; I hope you will hop on over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to see what the rest of the DT has created.

Angela

Pure Innocence "You're So Tweet"

2011-07-22T12:08:00.005-05:00

Hello! I was able to combine 2 challenges with this card, the MFT Wednesday Sketch Challenge and the Corrosive Challenge Blog's "Let the Music Play". Yay; I love it when that happens!

The little gal is colored with pencils and her dress is paper pieced. Her eyes are dotted with a black gel pen, and her barrette, waistband and shoes and nice and glittery. (Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Pink Smoothie"...great stuff!) I used a Spellbinder's die to cut the decorative border as well as the image. Some diecut flowers and leave, along with buttons finished it off.

Image: MFT Pure Innocence "You're So Tweet"

Ink: Palette Burnt Umber, SU! Close to Cocoa Marker, and Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream and Blueberry Sky, SU! Pink Pirouette and Soft Suede, My Mind's Eye DP

Embellies: Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Pink Smoothie", Assorted Buttons (my stash)

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Cat's Pajamas CutUps Die, MFT Pink Felt

Thanks for stopping by today; have a great weekend!

Angela

From one chick to another...

2011-07-21T09:14:00.003-05:00

Hello! Are you staying cool? The power was out here for about 6 hours yesterday; when it resumed, we found the central air wasn't working. Talk about hot! Fortunately, the high temps finally receded last night, now today we had a bit of rain to cool things off. I hope the worst of it is over.

I was able to play the SCS sketch challenge yesterday; it had been awhile, so I was glad I could play! It was a fun sketch and I went with one of my "go to" images, the Stampendous Calendar Chicks...love those chicks! I also used some paper in my stash that I have been hoarding a bit; I like it so much that I didn't want to cover it up, so I used vellum for one of the panels. I did run the vellum through the Cuttlebug to add a bit of texture. The chick is colored with pencils and her flowers are accented with glitter. I made a felt rose with the MFT Rolled Rose Die-namics die, which I have been using a lot. The roses are so easy to make! Also, it is so much cheaper than buying flowers...I'm all for saving a bit when I can.

Image: Stampendous "Flower Chick"

Sentiment: Inky Antics

Ink: Palette Burnt Umber

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream, SU! Regal Rose and Soft Suede, KI Memories DP, The Paper Studio Vellum

Embellie: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Cuttlebug/Swiss Dots Embossing Folder, MFT Rolled Rose Die, The Cat's Pajamas CutUps Die (leaves), Felt (PTI Simpy Chartreuse/Rose from my stash)

Thanks for stopping by today! I hope you are able to stay cool and work a bit of stamping in!

Angela

TMS#103

2011-07-19T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! I'm so glad to have a new sketch from Tuesday Morning Sketches to get me back into the swing of things; I've been on vacation and didn't get all the stamping done that I had planned to. Part of the time the family took a geocaching trip to Wisconsin; the other part was spent relaxing. I went back to work on Monday, so vacation is officially over.

Back to today's card.... Dawn drew the sketch this week, and I think it's a really great one; it really lets your image shine! Our sponsor this week is By LORI Designs and Lori gave me this adorable image to work with. Isn't she just a doll with her slice of watermelon? The little gal is colored with pencils and I added some glitter to the bows in her hair and the dots on her dress and shoes. I accented her eyes and the watermelon seeds with a black gel pen. The image panel is popped up to give it a bit of extra oomph!

Image: By LORI Designs

Paper: G.P. 110, SU! Melon Mambo, PTI True Black

Ink: Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellie: Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I hope you will head over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to see the rest of the DT's creations; I'm excited to see what they have done with Dawn's sketch!

Thanks for stopping by today; have a great day!

Angela

TMS#102: Summer Reading

2011-07-12T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good morning! It's time for another fun challenge from Melissa at the

Tuesday Morning Sketches blog. Our challenge this week is "Summer Reading" and we are to make a card with a detachable bookmark. Hmmm, I had never done this before and did find it to be quite the challenge because when I was trying to decorate my bookmark everything I came up with was bulky!

I used Bookwormabella for my image, and combined her with some pretty papers from the girls' paperie...I love their vintage flair! Bella is colored with pencils and I made a felt rose to which I added a ribbon loop and some leaf stickpins. I like the look of the white image panel and white dotted ribbon paired with the linen colored paper....

Here's my detachable bookmark; I stamped the image and sentiment on DP and added a felt flower. I was all set to use a button, but no lumps or bumps! I used my Cutterpede perforating blade for the bookmark; I tell you, that thing is awesome! One quick swipe and your paper is perforated...easy peasy!

Image: Stamping Bella "Bookwormabella"

Sentiment: MFT "Here's the Story"

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, Fine Linen, and Dark Chocolate, the girls' paperie DP

Embellies: PTI Dark Chocolate Polka Dot Satin Ribbon, Maya Road Stickpins

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, MFT Rolled Rose Die, Rose Felt (my stash), The Cat's Pajamas CutUp Die (flower on bookmark), EK Success Cutterpede Perforating Blade, DMC Floss

I hope you will head on over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to check out what the rest of the design team has come up with. I know I can't wait to see! Maybe all the inspiration will persuade you to try a bookmark of your own....

Thanks for stopping by; have a great day!

Angela

July SFYTT: Oh Baby!

2011-07-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good Monday morning! How was your weekend? Why do they go so fast?

I have been wanting to get a card in the mail for our niece who will be having a baby in October. Jen del Muro's Sketch For You To Try for July was perfect; the sponsor is MFT, so I went with this fun a' la mode image. Did you guess that the baby is supposed to be a girl?

The image is colored with pencils and the eyes are dotted with a black gel pen. I embellished simply with a felt flower and buttons. I borrowed a trick from Joanne Basile and used vellum for the sentiment. I could have made the image panel longer, but I didn't want to hide the DP. The vellum was the perfect solution!

Image/Sentiment: MFT a' la modes "Oh Baby!"

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream and Dark Chocolate, SU! Blushing Bride, My Mind's Eye DP, The Paper Studio Vellum

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: Assorted Buttons

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, The Cat's Pajamas CutUps Die, PTI Felt (Raspberry Fizz/Dark Chocolate), DMC Floss

That's it for today; I'll be back tomorrow with another fun challenge from Tuesday Morning Sketches.

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

MFTWSC27

2011-07-09T10:09:00.006-05:00

Good morning! I have a card using MFT's Wednesday Sketch Challenge to share. I had about 3 different plans going until I finally got started...then I had to flip the image panel to make it work. Now, if I would have thought of that right away, I could have stuck with plan 1! LOL

I stamped and colored the image on Kraft CS; I found that it is a bit harder to blend, but it works. Her dress is paper pieced and her crown is coated with Distress Stickles. I sponged the edges of the DP and embellished with a felt flower, leafy vine and some Swarovskis.

Image: MFT Pure Innocence "Something Special Just for You"

Paper: PTI Kraft and True Black, Fancy Pants Designs DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, SU! Crumb Cake, SU! Black Marker, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: Swarovski Flatback Crystals in "Jet", Distress Stickles in "Antique Linen"

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, MFT Die-namics (rolled flower/leafy flourish), Spellbinder's Nestabilities, PTI Felt in "Terracotta Tile

Thanks for stopping by today; I hope you are enjoying your weekend!

Angela

TMS #101

2011-07-05T05:00:00.004-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! I hope you had a wonderful 4th of July yesterday! I was lucky enough to be off work since there was a lot to do in my town...bands, carnival, parade, fireworks, etc. The weather was cooperative...hot, no rain. What could be better?!

Melissa has a new sketch for us over at the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog. I had about 3 different plans and then couldn't find the supplies I had in mind.... Then I thought of cute little Mavis and decided to go with her; I love her paper pieced romper!

Image/Sentiment: Stamping Bella

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, SU! Melon Mambo, g.c.d studios DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, SU! Black Marker, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellie: Barbara Trombley's Art Glitter in "Angel Dust"

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, EK Success Retro Flower Punches, SU! Oval Punch, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I hope you will hop on over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to check out the sketch for yourself; I'd love to see you play along too!

Here is a bit of inspiration:

Thanks for stopping by; have a great week!

Angela

June Sketch For You To Try

2011-06-30T20:36:00.004-05:00

Hi there! I am cutting the deadline really close with this card...I made it by about 3 hours! Good grief; I have had the whole month of June! It's a great sketch, so I'm glad I got to use it.... Stamping Bella is the June sponsor for Jen del Muro's SFYTT, and I just received some goodies last week, so I had to use this cute, little Peep! Isn't she just a doll in her snazzy, red raingear?

It took forever for me to pick out a paper combo...does anybody else ever have that problem? I finally decided on some October Afternoon DP from various pads. The little Peep is colored with pencils and her umbrella was paper pieced. I embellished with some lacy black trim, a red felt rose and some Swarovski crystals.

Image: Stamping Bella "Umbrella PEEP"

Paper: SU! Real Red, PTI True Black, October Afternoon DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: Black Ribbon (my stash), Swarovski Flatback Crystals in "Topaz"

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, MFT Die-namics Rolled Rose Die, The Cat's Pajamas CutUp Die (leaves), The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Here's a photo of the card I was about to upload. Something just wasn't right, and I decided that the black strip was just too wimpy. I removed some of the embellies, added a thicker strip over the first strip, replaced the embellies and voila'! Much better! Still somewhat lacey,but more substantial to ground the rose.

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

Woot, Woot...A Blog Award!!!

2011-06-29T05:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you to my friend, Chris at Chris' Corner, for giving me this blog award! I have to tell you, Chris makes the most wonderful scrapbook layouts and scrappy cards. She also makes cards to sell at her Vet's office and donates the proceeds to the animal shelter.... How cool is that?!

Here are the rules for this award:

1. Send a thank you to the person who nominated you and include their link (see above).

2. List 7 random facts about yourself (see below).

3. Pass the award on to at least 8 other awesome blog buddies (see below).

7 Random Facts:

1. I have long hair

2. I hate cold weather

3. I like to geocache

4. I love animals...we have 2 kitties, and a hamster

5. I grew up on a farm

6. I love lipstick

7. I was a cheerleader in High School

8 Awesome Bloggers:

1. Larissa---Car-D-elicious

2. Jessica---Jess' Obsession

3. Kathleen---Will Stamp for Wine

4. Linda---Linda's Stamping Blog

5. Imke---Crafting Creations' by Imke

6. Theresa---My Sassy Cards

7. Debra---Debra's Place to Stamp

8. Denise---Denise's Fun Creations

There are many more awesome bloggers who I love to visit; I don't always leave comments, but I like to enjoy their awesome creations. I will have to try and do better with the commenting....

I would like to thank the people who visit my blog and leave comments; it really makes my day!

Have a great day!

Angela

TMS#100

2011-06-28T05:00:00.002-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! It's time for another challenge from Melissa at

Tuesday Morning Sketches...can you believe it's week 100! Wow, how cool is that?! Our sponsor this week is Stamping Boutique; they provided me with this darling basket image. I love it...it's so summery!

The image is colored with pencils and I added some subtle glitter to the centers of the flowers. (Click on the image to get a larger view.) I pierced my circle and then added some brads and a message to finish it off. I like the simple layout.

Image: Stamping Boutique

Sentiment: Hero Arts

Paper: G.P. 110, PTI Stamper's Select and Kraft, Basic Grey DP

Embellies: Recollections Brads, Martha Stewart Crystal Fine Glitter

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Crafter's Workshop Piercing Template, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I can't wait to see what the rest of the DT has done with this sketch; here are some links for you to check them out and leave a bit of love.

Thanks for stopping by today; have a good one!

Angela

Shopping Stella Card/Gift Box

2011-06-26T08:28:00.006-05:00

Good morning! My Mom asked me to make a card for a friend of hers who is embarking on a new adventure; she is opening a shop on Main Street. I was pretty much able to make whatever I wanted; however, my Mom wanted the card to be purple since that's her friend's favorite color. I DO like purple, but I was a bit worried because I knew I didn't have much in my stash.... I was able to find some pretty Basic Grey and when paired with purple CS, it worked perfectly. I love it when it all comes together so easily!

Stella is colored with pencils and her wand and crown are accented with a touch of yellow glitter. I made sure to give her bold, red lips since that is another favorite color of the recipient! I went with one of my "go-to" layouts and embellished with ribbons, a die cut flower and some bling.

Here's a close-up of the card only. I think Stella rocks! I love her crown and wand...they give me the opportunity to break out the glitter!

Image: Stamping Bella "Stella's Goin' Shoppin"

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Dark Chocolate, Basic Grey DP

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Embellies: PTI Plum Pudding and Dark Chocolate Ribbons, Recollections Bling, Doodlebug Glitter

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, The Cat's Pajamas CutUp "Button Flower" Die, PTI Label Die (box), The Paper Studio Sicky Doos

That's it for now, although I do hope to work is some stamping later today. It's been a busy week, so there is a lot to catch up on at home. Also, my daughter would like to do a bit of geocaching if the weather holds out. Thanks for stopping by; have a great Sunday!

Angela

Vintage "For You"

2011-06-23T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good morning! I picked up the latest Paper Crafts publication, Card Creations Volume 9, the other day and I have earmarked a bunch of cards to CASE. I think I see something new every time I look through the magazine; I love to look at it as I'm watching t.v. in the evenings.

This card caught my eye since I had recently purchased this stamp. I really love vintage and sewing themes and since this combined both, I just had to whip up a few for my stash. The original card was created by Maile Belles and is shown on page 39. I switched up the colors and sentiment. They were fun and simple to put together.

Image: Hero Arts

Sentiment: Lili of the Valley

Ink: Palette Burnt Umber, PaperTrey Ink Chai

Paper: PTI Fine Linen, G.P. 110, PTI Distressed Dots

Embellie; PTI Dark Chocolate Button

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, DMC Floss

Thanks for stopping by; have a great day!

Angela

TMS#99

2011-06-21T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! We have another fun sketch challenge from Melissa at

Tuesday Morning Sketches; our sponsor this week is Sparkle Creations. This cute image is called Cupcake Ruby; doesn't her cupcake look yummy?!

Ruby is colored with pencils and the image panel is accented with a bit of bling. The DP is from the Cosmo Cricket DeLovely Mini Deck; I love the bright, cheerful colors!

Image: Sparkle Creations "Cupcake Ruby"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, SU! YoYo Yellow, Cosmo Cricket DeLovely DP

Embellie: Kaisercraft Bling

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I hope you will check out the rest of the DT's creations and play along with us this week too!

Thanks for stopping by; have a great week!

Angela

More Changito....

2011-06-18T07:40:00.003-05:00

Good morning! Theresa, from Tuesday Morning Sketches, created the sketch for this week's There She Goes challenge. Although I don't have any of their stamps, I thought I would play along. I thought the sketch was a bit tough; so I ended up flipping it.

I have been in "Changito mode" lately. I choose this image because yesterday was my son's 11th birthday! I paired the image with some Doodlebug DP. The image is colored with pencils and I used a vellum panel so the cute DP wouldn't be covered up too much. After I completed and photographed the card, I wished that I would have used a Melon Mambo base...however, I wasn't up to performing "card surgery" today so I left it....

Image: Stampendous "Changito Cake"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select and Simply Chartreuse, Doodlebug DP, The Paper Studio Vellum

Embellies: Spare Parts Silver Brads, PTI Simply Chartreuse Grosgrain Ribbon

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

By the way, Davis' cake didn't have pink icing...it had cookies and cream and it was delicious! So delicious, in fact, that I had a piece for breakfast.... Come on, I'll bet you've done that a time or two yourself! LOL

Thanks for stopping by today; enjoy your weekend!

Angela

SCS SC337: I Think I'll Hang On To You!

2011-06-16T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning! I played along with the SCS sketch challenge yesterday and was able to use a few goodies from some "happy mail" that my Secret Sister sent me. How fun to get "happy mail"!

Changito is colored with pencils; he turned out a bit lighter than I usually color him. I ran out of the PTI Stamper's Select and was using white paper from another source. While the paper is really nice, it is super smooth whereas the PTI has more "tooth" to "grab" the color. I tried to shade and blend, but didn't have much luck. After I started coloring the image, I remembered I had some Copic markers in "Changito Colors" sent to me by a stamping/blogging friend. Ack! I think I really messed up here, because the paper probably would have been perfect for the markers.... I will have to try them next time...I confess I am a bit nervous since I see so many who color beautifully with them.

I tried to make a little scene and added some felt grass and clouds, along with a punched sun. I finished it off with a button and Baker's Twine, and some brads. The sentiment for the inside reads: I think I'll hang on to you! I thought the card would be perfect for one of the kids to give to my hubby for Father's Day.

Image: Stampendous "Changito Piggyback"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: SU! Baja Breeze and Pumpkin Pie, SU! DP

Embellies: Spare Parts Brads, PTI Button, Divine Twine Baker's Twine,

Extras: Crayolas/Goo Gone, MFT Die-namics Grass and Cloud Dies, EK Success Sun Punch, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Thanks for stopping by; enjoy your day!

Angela

TMS#98: Inspiration Challenge

2011-06-14T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning! Today we have a bit of a different challenge for Tuesday Morning Sketches...it's an inspiration challenge! Our inspiration is a photograph of a scent I recently bought; not only does it smell wonderful, it's packaged beautifully!

I will have to admit, I am not one who usually likes this type of challenge...I have a hard time thinking out of the box. One look at those beautiful flowers though, and I was hooked! It was fun to make something totally different; for instance, I would have never came up with the unusual color scheme on my own and I rarely use gold brads.

I colored my image with pencils, added a bit of texture with an embossing folder and kept the layout simple to keep the focus on the flowers. I used the EK Success "retro flower" punch and rolled the petals of the larger flowers under, and added gold brads to the centers. I popped them up for added dimension.

Image: Stamping Bella "Daisybella"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Paper: PTI Stamper's Select, SU! Blushing Bride and Summer Sun

Embellies: Spare Parts Gold Brads

Extras: Prismas/Crayolas/Goo Gone, Sissix Embossing Folder, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Now it's your turn; I would love to see what you come up with using the inspiration photo! Be sure to stop by the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to see what the rest of the DT has created too.

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela

CAS Chicks

2011-06-13T08:42:00.004-05:00

Good Monday morning! Did you have a good weekend? I worked, so I have lots of catching up to do. Two days away from home = 1 messy house! Can you relate?

I made these clean and simple cards not too long ago to add to my stash. They were quick to make; minimal layering, a bit coloring, some glitter and paper piercing. I made some in each color combo; even though pink is my favorite color, I think I like the blue better.

Here's a close-up.

Image: Stampendous Calendar Chicks "Flower Chick"

Sentiment: SU!

Paper: G.P. 110, SU! Bashful Blue, Pretty in Pink, Garden Green

Embellie: Glitter

Extras: Crayolas/Goo Gone, Tim Holtz Piercing Ruler

I'll be back tomorrow with a card for Tuesday Morning Sketches. Thanks for stopping by today; have a good week!

Angela

Bellarific Friday: Paper Piecing

2011-06-10T10:30:00.002-05:00

Good Friday morning! I couldn't resist playing along with Bellarific Friday this week, as the challenge was paper piecing...I love to paper piece! I immediately thought of this image, but went and looked through all my Bella stamps so I could do something original. There were some options, but I couldn't resist my old favorite! Baby cards are one of my favorite kinds to make, and I needed some more for my stash.

Image: Stamping Bella "All Bummed Out Baby"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black

Paper: PTI Vintage Cream and Dark Chocolate, Canvas Corp DP

Embellies: Assorted Buttons---Autumn Leaves, PTI, SU!, PTI Vintage Cream Twill, PTI Dark Chocolate Baker's Twine

Extras: Prisma/Crayola/Goo Gone, Spellbinder's Nestabilities, Glue Dots, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

Thanks for stopping by today; enjoy your weekend!

Angela

TMS#97

2011-06-07T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good Tuesday morning! It's time for another fun challenge over at Tuesday Morning Sketches; our sponsor is Whimsie Doodles and Melissa has a fun sketch for you to try!

I ended up switching out the oval for a rectangle, but I thought this was a fun sketch to work with. I broke out some bright, cheery papers...since this is a "get well" card, I thought they would be perfect! My bug is colored with pencils and his wings are accented with glitter; I also dotted his eyes with a gel pen (those eyes remind me of "the deer in the headlights" look...too funny!). The jar is cut out and popped up for dimension, and I added a few Bella Dots and some orange ribbon for embellishments. Inside the card reads, "hope you're feeling better soon!".

Images/Sentiments: CC Designs

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Sakura Black Gel Pen

Paper: Gina K Designs White CS, PTI Orange Zest and True Black, Doodlebug DP

Embellies: Bella Dots, PTI Orange Zest Ribbon, Doodlebug Glitter

Extras: Prismas/Goo Gone, The Paper Studio Sticky Doos

I hope you will head on over to the Tuesday Morning Sketches blog to see what the rest of the DT has come up with...I can't wait to head over there myself! Hopefully you can also play along!

Thanks for stopping by!

Angela