Creatively Artsy Card Gallery

Birthday Blast - Mojo Monday Sketch Challenge

2012-02-11T19:19:00.004-05:00

I made this card for a birthday party we went to today. I almost forgot to post it here so I can enter it in the Mojo Monday Sketch Challenge.

I used the Close to my Heart Stamp Set called Birthday Blast. The papers are form the retired paper pack called Mayberry.

Just for You - February Workshop Card 3

2012-02-09T14:56:00.000-05:00

Here is the third and last card for my February call and workshop.

I did a faux stitching technique on three sides of the card. It doesn't show up very well on the photo.

I used the "Just for you" stamp set for the flower and the "Just a Number" set for the Birthday Greeting.

I also used the same "Stella" paper pack. The flourish and base for the Birthday Greetings was cut from the Close to my Heart exclusive Cricut cartridge, "Art Philosophy".

I embellished the card using a Pewter Badge Button for the center of the flower, tiny blue sparkles in the flower and brown self adhesive Opague gems

Thoughtful Tidings - Card 2 of my Workshop cards

2012-02-09T11:14:00.000-05:00

Here is my second card for this month's workshops.

I used Thoughtful Tidings, which if the February Stamp of the Month. This set is only available until February 29th. The cost is only $17.95, however, you can get it for only $5.00 with an additional $50 purchase.

The other stamp set used is "Just for You", used for the flowers and leaves. The stem pf the flowers was cut from the Cricut cartridge "Art Philosophy", exclusive to Close to my Heart. This cartridge consists of 700 different images.

I also used the Stella Paper Pack for this card. Of course I needed to add some bling so I added two of the NEW Glitter Buttons and then topped each one with a blue Sparkle.

The Butterfly is wood. It's from the NEW Color-Ready Accents, "Garden Wooden Shapes". This collection has 24 stampable laser cut wooden shapes. I stamped the butterfly using one of the flower petals and Lagoon ink. I then added three adhesived Bitty Opaques Pearls.

I tied it all together with a Garden Green Grosgrain bow.

Just for You - February Workshop Card 1

2012-02-09T10:28:00.000-05:00

Here is one of my cards for my February Workshop and classes.

I used two of the new Close to my Heart stamp sets, "Just For You" for the flower and leaves and "The Best Things" for the sentiment and Flourish corner.

I also used the Stella Paper Pack. The small stirp with all the half circles is the zip strip from the sheet of paper. This is an added bonus with the CTMH papers. The tops of each sheet of paper had the name of the paper pack along with the colors used in that pack. HOWEVER, the difference with the CTMH papers and others you may but for other companies is that when you cut the strip off of the paper, you can use the reverse side as you see on this card. BUT, the best part is that after the strip is cut off, you are still left with a 12" x 12" sheet of paper. Some other companies leave your paper 1/2" shorter.

Then to top off the flower, I used the big button from the Bling Assortment.

Rock The Block - January Workshop card 3

2012-02-08T14:47:00.000-05:00

This is the third of my January workshop cards.

I used the Rock The Block stamp set for this card. The papers are from the Elemental Paper Pack.

Trellis - January Workshop Card 2

2012-02-08T14:40:00.006-05:00

Here is the second card my clubs and workshop gals made in January. The first one is posted here.

The CTMH stamp set I used is called Trellis and the paper pack is called Roxie.

Challenges with this card:
Clear It Out - Valentine - Use your red and pink scraps.
Papertake Weekly - Anything with Heart or Love theme
Party Time Tuesday - Valentine
Scrap Creations - Valentines
Shopping our stash - Hearts, Valentines &/or Lace
Try it on Tuesday - True Love
Tuesday Throwdown - Be My Valentine

February SOTM Blog Hop - Thoughtful Tidings

2012-01-31T21:01:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the February Stamp of the Month Blog Hop. Today starts the first day of the New Spring/Summer Close to my Heart Idea Book and we’re kicking it off with this fabulous stamp of the month called Thoughtful Tidings.

If you’ve come here from Elizabeth’s Blog, you’re on the right track. If you just happened upon my blog, you can just continue from here because it just goes in a complete circle.

I love how this set coordinates with the Cricut Art Philosophy Cartridge. The red markings above on the stamp set above shows which items can be cut to match.

You can pick up this stamp set one of two ways.

You can buy it outright for $17.95 or, the best value is to place a $50 order and get it for only $5.00. And with the New Catalog availabled to order from starting today, February 1st, there is so much to choose from.
This stamp set is only available until February 29, 2012. Visit my website to order.

With Valentines Day fast approaching, I chose to use the “We Love You” stamp to make an Easel Valentine Card. Most Valentine sentiments say I Love You but this one is just perfect to send a card to someone when it’s from me and my husband. It’s perfect to send to our married children.

The papers used for my card are from the New Stella Paper pack.

The Circle flower and all hearts were cut from the CTMH exclusive Cricut cartridge, Art Philosophy.

The center of the circle is one of the small Wooden Badge Buttons that I stamped on.

The red swirly sparkles are NEW and are called Sparkles Flourishes. They come in clear but you can use a Sharpy Marker to color them. I used a red Copic Marker to color mine. I actually cut it apart in several pieces to make it fit where I needed them.

After cutting the small hearts with the Cricut AP, I covered them with Red Glitter Gel, as well as the tiny heart and the word LOVE.

I added more Bling with the Red Sparkles.

The Happy Valentines Day is from the December SOTM but I just had to use it the font is so darn pretty.

The Hand Stitching was done with matching Tulip Embroidery Floss in my own unique design to look like little hearts all around the card.

Now hop on over to Terrie’s Blog and see what beautiful creation she has for you.
Please leave us all a little love in our comment section. It makes us smile!!!

Valentine Card Workshop

2012-01-08T11:42:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!!!

I have a card to share with you today. I haven't been creating nor posting for quite a while. This card was made using the Mojo Monday Sketch. I've been trying to make the cards for this month’s club and workshops but am plagued with continuing pain in my wrist. So, it’s going rather slowly. I almost forgot to post this for the challenge.

All products are from Close to my Heart.

Cherish The Day - CTMH November SOTM Blog Hop

2011-10-31T21:00:00.004-04:00

Welcome to the November SOTM Blog Hop. It's hard to believe how fast these months fly by. I almost thought I was going to miss out on this one. I live in PA and was in the middle of the October SNOW STORM!!! Of course with all the snow and the leaves still on the trees, we had lots of power outages. Ours went out Saturday afternoon and wasn't expected to be back on until tonight. But, they were a little early this time.

So, on with the hop. If you've come here from Amy's blog, you're on the right path. If you just happenend upon my blog, just continue on with the hop from here. It's just one big circle. And, we all love when you leave some swwet comments.

My card today uses the November SOTM, Cherish the Day along with So Grateful and the Dreamin' Paper pack.

I used a sketch from Midnight Madness Challenge Blog. Inks used were Cocoa, New England Ivy, BArd Red and Sunset.
The Hand Stitching was done with matching Sunset Embroidery Floss.

Now hop on over to Shirley's Blog to see what great artwork she has to share with you.

Other Challrnges for this card:
Scrap-Creations - Pumpkins

Holiday Magic - CTMH October Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2011-09-30T21:00:00.004-04:00

Welcome to the Close to my Heart October Stamp of the Month Blog Hop. This month features a fantastic Christmas set with so many possibilities.

If you've come here from Dawn's Blog, then you're on the right path. If you just happened upon my blog then you can continue the hop from here. When you get back to my blog again, you know you've seen them all.

I have two cards to share with you today. The first card was made with the sleigh. The packages were made using the tops of the stockings. The packages and the ovals were all cut with the Art Philosophy cartridge.

This second card was made at a play date with my convention roomies, Joyce and Debbie. We all put our heads together and came up with this card. The stocking was first cut with the New Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge exclusively through Closed to my Heart. If you want to know more about this amazing cricut cartridge with 700 images on it, Contact me here for more information.

Now, hop on over to Wanda's Blog to see what fabulous artwork she has to share with you.

I'd like to submit the Stocking Card into these challenges:
Crafty Creations - Clean & Simple
Stampin Royalty - K.I.S.S.
Truly Scrumptious - Clean & Simple
Less is more - Color of your eyes

"Pair-a-Phrase"_ National Stamping Month Blog Hop

2011-08-14T21:00:00.006-04:00

Here we are Mid-August already and ready to begin the fabulous Close to my Heart National Stamping Month Special called Pair-a-Phrase. This special runs from August 15th through September 30, 2011. More information on how to get BOTH of these "D" size stamp sets FREE after I tell you about my card and the hop.

If you've come here from Laura's Blog, you're on the right path. If you just happened upon my blog and would like to see what all of the other participating consultans have to show, just click on the link at the bottom of each blog post and when you get back to mine again, you know you've seen them all. And, while you're at it, PLEASE leave a little lovin for each of us in the comment section.

I am going on my 15th year with Close to my Heart and the last time I made a one layer card was probably
14 years ago. It's just not my style.
A One layer card is one where you stamp only on the card with NO additional layers. There are so many challenges out there laterly to make just clean and simple or one layer cards. So, I went out of my comfort zone and took the challenge. My card today is stamped right on the card with no additional layers. I made it monochromatic using only Twilight and Sky ink pads. The snowman and phrase is from the Pair-a-Phrase set but I did add the snowflakes from the stamp set called "Snowflakes".
I did add a little liquid applique to the snow and snowman's cap and heated it, along with some prisma glitter.

Now, more about National Stamping Month and the Pair-a-Phrase stamp sets.
You get both of these "D" sized stamp sets in one envelope. They include lots of Phrases and coordinating images you'll use in your cards all year long.
All you need to do is make a $75 purchase and you get these two sets absolutely FREE. And, while you're at it, why not purchase the August Stamp of the Month called "Wicked", a gorgoeus Halloween set, for ONLY $5.00. With our new Stamp of the Month (SOTM) program, you can purchase the SOTM for only $5.00 with a $50 purchase.
To take advantage of these specials, feel free to order them from my website if you don't have your own CTMH consultant. You can also click on one of the links above to take you directly to the item I used.

Now, hop on over to Angie's Blog to see her beautiful creation.

A few challenges for this card.
Challenge Up Your Life - No DP
Crafty Hazelnut- Christmas & One Layer card
Crazy 4 Challenges - Monochromatic
Less is More - One Layer
Secret Crafter - Christmas

Wicked - CTMH August Stamp of the Mnth Blog Hop

2011-07-31T20:13:00.007-04:00

Welcome to Close To My Hearts's August Stamp of the Month (SOTM) Blog Hop. This is the first SOTM from the new Fall/Winter Catalog/Idea Book. What a fabulous stamp set this is too.

Here are the stamps in the set.

If you've come her from Tamytha's Blog, you are on the right path. If you've just wondered upon my blog and want to see all of the fabulous artwork throughout this blog, then just continue by clicking on the link to the next person at the bottom of each post. When you get back to this blog, you know you've seen them all.

My card is an easel card made from the NEW Mischief Paper Pack. The colors I used are Sunset, Black & Red Barn.

The Hand stitching was done with Black Embroidery Floss. I thought this stitch pattern looked similar to a witches hat. It's funny how you sometimes start out with one stitch and then see something totally different and run with it.

The Buttons are from the Sunset Mini Medley's

Now hop on over to Traci's Blog and see what great creation she has for you.

Studio J - Jeffrey's 2nd Birthday

2011-07-08T05:00:00.001-04:00

Well, Tomorrow is Jeffrey's 2nd Birthday. Since I'm leaving for Convention and they are going on vacation, we celebrated his birthday early.
I'm going to be posting four layouts today because they all go together.

Studio J - Day 4 - Swim Lessons

2011-07-07T05:00:00.001-04:00

Well, today is Day 4 of posing my Studio J Layouts.

These two are a continuation of the two from yesterday.

Studio J - Day 3

2011-07-06T08:38:00.003-04:00

Here is Day 3 of my Studio J Projects.

This is my daughter Andrea and her two babies.

Studio J - more fun layouts

2011-07-05T11:58:00.003-04:00

Here is day 2 of posting my Studio J Layouts.
Jeffrey & Mya playing in their pool at my house.

Studio J - Mya and Jeffrey

2011-07-04T22:42:00.003-04:00

I hope you all had a safe and wonderful

4th of July weekend.

Last week I took some time to work on my Studio J Layouts. If you're strapped for time like I am, this is the absolute best way to tell the story of your life.
I haven't been creating lately. Too many things I'm trying to get finished before leaving On Sunday Fot the CTMH Convention at Disney Land. So, I'll be posting some of my layouts instead of cards.

I take care of my two fabulous grandchildren while their Mommy & Daddy work and what a pleasure this is for me. To make it even better, I can sit outside with them while they play, my camera always ready to snap the greatest pictures, and at the same time, I was working on these layouts. You can click on the pictures to capture all the details of the embellishments.

American Celebration - CTMH July SOTM

2011-06-30T21:00:00.002-04:00

Front closed

Inside, 1st flap open

Inside, 2nd flap open

Happy 4th of July Weekend. This month Close to my Heart has another fabulous Stamp of the Month to do all of your Holiday Scrapblooking with, or to make cards to send our troops. There are so many ideas to use these 12 clear stamps for, I'm sure you'll think of lots of occasions. I think this would make a fantastic Summer Birthday card.

This is our monthly Stamp of the Month Blog Hop. If you're hoping along from the beginning, you would have come here from Beth's Blog. If you just happened upon my blog, then you can continue with the hop from here. Just click on the next person's name at the end of this post.
If you lo0se your way or find a broken link, you can find the entire list of hoppers at Helen's Blog.

My card is a 5 X 7 flip flap card. I wanted to show off as many stamps from the set as possible and I used all but one. I don't know how I missed that one.

I used lots of red, blue and clear sparkles through out and glitter glirz on the star of the flag. My coloring was done using the baby wipe technique. I just folded up a baby wipe and placed it on a clear block for support. I then stamped the streamer stars on the wipe with desert sand ink. Then I applied re-inker in holiday red, star spangled blue, honey and pear. I put one color on each star. I then used that same pad to ink up all the other multi colored images.
My papers and solid colors are Cranberry and Pacifica.

If you're looking to purchase this stamp set, you can find it on my website, or you can just email me about it. Youn may even want to get it FREE!!! All it takes to get it discounted or FREE is a qualifying order.

Now hop on over to Georgia's Blog and see what fabulous eye candy she has for you.

.

Beautiful Butterflies

2011-06-04T13:34:00.001-04:00

I was playing around with the Beautiful Butterflies Clear Stamp Set from Close to my Heart. I colored the stamps using the baby wipe technique where you just add reinker to a baby wipe and use it as an ink pad.
I used the CTMH Miracle Paper Pack. I love the Sweetleaf and Sky colors together. It may be hard to see in the photo, but I used the light blue and light green sparkles plus some of the tiny clear sparkles on the butterflies.
The ribbon was Heavenly blue and I sprayed it with the sky reinker and water in the spray pen.

The Hand Stitching was done with my own unique design and matching Embroidery Floss.

Jubilation - CTMH June SOTM Blog Hop

2011-05-31T21:00:00.002-04:00

Welcome to the June Stamp of the Month Blog Hop. These months just keep flying by so quickly.

If you've come here from Wanda's Blog, you're on the right track. However, if you just happened upon my blog, you can follow the Blog Hop right from here. You will make your rounds and when you return to mine, you know you've seen them all.
If you get lost along the way, the entire list can be found here on Kathleen's Blog.

This month's SOTM is called Jubilation and consists of 24 Clear Stamps.

For my card, I used the Fanfare paper pack. I needed a card for my son's birthday in July so I used this set for it.

I stamped the word celebrate all over the background paper, most of it in the stars. Then I made two pleted flowers with the paper and added the fireworks on top.

I used the medium blue sparkles and also the tiny clear bitty sparkles. However, the blue sparkles don't look like they are all the same color, but they are. It's the way the picture was taken.
The Hand Stitching around the card was done with matching Cranberry Embroidery Floss. The Happy BIrthday is from another Birthday Set.

The design of the card was inspited by a sketch from Taylored Expressions Sketch Challenge Blog.

Now hop on over to Sarah's Blog and see what beautiful creation she has to show you.

Other Challenge Blogs this card was made for:
Card Makin Mamas - Use your scraps
Sew Many Cards - Circles
2 Sisters - Anything Goes
Kraftin Kimmie - Hand Stitching
Birthday Sundaes - Masculine Birthday
Catered Crop - RECIPE: Red, White, Blue and Yellow, Birthday, sewing, stamp Ink, Distress

Endless Friendship

2011-05-23T20:26:00.005-04:00

Well here is an oldie but a goodie. I LOVE this stamp set and forgot all about it. I wasn't even sure that it was still current, but fortunately IT IS!!!! Yeah!!!

The starting inspiration came from ICSketches Challenge Blog.

I used the Endless Friendship and the Beautiful Butterflies Stamp Sets. Colors are Smoothie and Olive.
Oh, I forgot, I did use two of the flowers from Mayberry.

I added sparkles, Buttons, & Glitter Gel.

The Hand Stitching was done in my own unique design with matching Embroidery Floss.

Other challenges for this card:
Anything Goes - Bingo: Distressing, Flowers, Heat Embossing
Papertake Weekly - Bloom & Grow
Crafty Creations - May Flowers
Fab 'n Funky - Make your own Blooms
Crafty Catz - Anything Goes
Fun At Fairy Knoll - Flowers
Really Reasonable Ribbon - Anything Goes
Let's Ink It Up - Focal Sentiment & a 3D Flower
Paper Sundaes - Pop It Up.
House of Gilli - Flowers

Chairs to You - CTMH May Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2011-04-30T21:00:00.003-04:00

Welcome to the Close to my Heart May Stamp of the Month Blog Hop. Just when I thought winter would never end, we're into May already.

If you've come here from LeAnne's Blog, you're on the right track. However, if you just happened upon my blog, you can continue in the blog hop from here and when you get back to me again, you know you've seen them all. If you come across any broken links along the way, you can find the entire list here on Helen's Blog.

As soon as I saw this stamp set, I saw paper Piecing. There are so many possibilities.

My card today is 5" x 7" and made using the Sweetheart paper pack. I threw in a little Gypsy CS also since there are tiny flowers and hearts in that color in the background papers.

I paper pieced all three chairs. The pink chair has tiny pearls added.

The Happy Mother's Day is from "A Little Everything" Clear Stamp Set.

The Hand Stitching was done with White Embroidery Floss. I then added white Pearls in all of the corners.

I always like to finish off the insides of my cards. There is a little of the hand stitching there also in a very simple running stitch and matching cardstock and B&T papers.

In case you were at the Leadershare in Pennsylvania this Saturday, you would have seen this card in the Auction for the Operation Smile Charity. I'd love to hear from you if you won any of my cards in the auction.

Now hop on over to Wendy's Blog to see her gorgeous Eye candy.

And, please leave comments for all of us along the way. We love hearing from you and appreciate knowing how we're doing.

Blessed Card 2

2011-04-12T21:07:00.000-04:00

This is the second card for my clubs. I had 3" x 12" scraps of the Olivia paper left from club projects last year and I am determined to use up some of my older papers.
The paper & Ink colors are Sunset and Pear with Sunflower for the flower.

Blessed Card 1

2011-04-12T20:57:00.002-04:00

Here is one of two cards that I made for my clubs and classes this month.

The embossed background was done with Silver embossing powder. I used Sky, Lagoon & Pacifica ink pads to color the background.

Blessed - April Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2011-03-31T21:00:00.002-04:00

Here's another fabulous Stamp of the Month Set from Close to my Heart.

If you're following the hop and you came here from Laurie's Blog, you're on the right track. If you just happened upon my blog and would like to see more fabulous artwork from loads of other consultants, thewn you can continue from here and when you return here, you woulod have seen them all. Just click on the link at the end of this post to go to the next person on the list.

If you want a complete list of participants, you can find them on Helen's Blog.

I used Sophia paper pack and Hollyhock, sweetleaf, gardengreen and goldrush ink pads.
The Hand Stitching was done with matching Embroidery Floss.

Now hop on over to Kami's Blog to see her fabulous artwork

Sophia

2011-03-28T11:37:00.003-04:00

Inside of the card

I've been working on some cards for the auction for Operation Smile Charity at Leadershare and since this is also made for a Sketch Challenge I need to post it.

The inspiration for this card came from the sketch challenge at Creative Sketches.
Along with the sketch, is also the theme of Celebrations. I chose not to specify the celebration since the card will be auctioned off, but you can tell it's celebrating a special person.

The paper pack is the Wings Creative Basics. I just love the colors in this paper pack and the ribbon included in the pack is GORGEOUS!!!

The stamp set is called Sophia and comes in the Sophia Workshop on the Go.
The colors used are Cocoa, Juniper and Sweetleaf.
I used the Juniper Bigger Brads and matching Juniper Embroidery Floss for the Hans Stitching.

Other Challenges for this card:
Anything Goes - Make your own
Truly Scrumptious - Tag It!
Lili of the Valley - Punch It!
Paper Play - Distrressing
Sketches in Thyme - Open challenge but must use a sketch
StampInsanity - Punch it out
The ABC Challenge - Q is for Quilting/Sewing
Crafty Creations - In Stitches
For Fun Challenges - Flowers & Use sentiment as focal point
Freshly Brewed - 2 or more embellishments
Tellen's Place - Lots of Texture
The Paper Variety - Stamped Image, Card, Scallops

Sensational Season

2011-03-01T10:29:00.002-05:00

I hope you all are enjoying the nStamp of the Month Blog Hop. The hop is in the post after this one. This is the third card that I didn't get finished in time to get a good picture of it. I couldn't scan it because of the big flower on it.

The inspiration for this card started with a sketch from Clean & Simple Stamping. OK, so I got carried away and didn't keep it clean and simple. I guess that's just not my style. I sometimes don't know when to stop.

My card is 5" x 7" and was made eusing the Miracle Paper Pack. I just love the blues and greens in this pack. I stamped the sentiment, bunny and basket from the Sensational Season Stamp of the month. Clear embossed all & Colored them with Copic Markers and cut them out.

The flower was made with 6 scalloped circles made with the new CTMH 2" Punch. The leaves are from a Sizzix die.

The Hand Stitching was done with Colonial White Embroidery Floss and I added a light Green Sparkle in each corner, And a Sweetleaf bow in the corner.

Then to top it off and add a little more sparkle, I added the Glitz Gel to the tips of the flower and the eggs.

Other Challenge Blogs this card was made for:
All Sorts - Make your own flowers
Crazy for Challenges - Use flowers
Crafty Catz - Friendship
Fun at Fairy Knoll - Felling Green
Fussy and Fancy - Embossing
Paper Cutz - Spring
Paper Garden - Spring
Patties Creations - Make own embellishment
Wags 'n Whiskers - Punches
CCEE - Distressing
Pals Paper Arts - Scallops (flower)
Paper Play - Sentiments as focal point
The Paper Variety - Stitching

Sensational Season - CTMH March SOTM - Blog Hop

2011-02-28T21:04:00.008-05:00

Oh My, I can hardly believe it's March already. And look at this absolutely Gorgeous Stamp Set called Sensational Season. You're going to be blown away this month with the fabulous artwork from 58 of our very talented CTMH Consultants in this Blog Hop

So on with the Blog Hop. If you just happened upon my blog, you can start the hop from here and when you get back here again, you know you've seen them all. However, if you'd like to start from the very beginning, you can go to Helen's Blog for this and for the entire list, just in case there would be a broken link along the way.

If you came here from Adeline's Blog, you're on the right path.

I have two cards for you today. I was planning on three, but the third isn't quite finished yet. Maybe I'll post it tomorrow.

The inspiration for this card started with a sketch from Phindy's Place

The first card is 5.5 x 5.5 amd uses the Miracle Paper Pack along with the Miracle Dimensional Elements for the Butterfly. After sponging Sky ink onto the butterfly, I coated it with Liquid Glass. I took some of my Colonial White Waxy Flax and colored a small piece with the Sky re-inker. When dry, I ran it through a tissue several times to get the excess ink off. Then I wrapped it around my Paper Piercer a few times to curl it. Cut the small pieces and adhered them to the back with Liquid Glass.
The Hand Stitching was done with Embroidery Floss that matched the Sweet Leaf color.
Everything was colored with Copic Markers.

My second card is 5"x5" and uses the Bliss paper along with Sky Cardstock. The Butterfly is from the Trellis stamp set. I used the Grey Opaques and blue sparkles on the Butterfly.

My 3rd card is now posted here

Now hop on over to Traci's Blog and see what fabulous work she has to share with you.

February SOTM - Friendship

2011-01-31T21:10:00.010-05:00

Welcome to the Close to my Heart February Stamp of the month Blog Hop. If you'd like the whole list of hoppers, you can go to Kathleen's Blog for the list. All of the blogs you will visit are Close to my Heart Consultant.
If you just happened upon my blog, and want to follow along, you can start with me and when you go around to all of them and get back to me again, you'll know you saw all the fabulous artwork.
If you came here from Teri's Blog, you're on the right track.

Here is the fabulous stamp set we are featuring. This set has so many possibilities. It makes the most beautiful background papers and the sentiments are fantastic.

From here, you will hop on over to Debra's Blog to see her fabulous artwork.
We all would love if you would take a few moments to leave is a comment. It would really make our day!

The sketch I used isa from 365 Cards

My card is made using the Sweetheart paper pack and the velvet ribbon from Cherry-O Creative Basics.
I used a technique called Faux Dry Embossing for the corner pieces. To do this, you stamp with white or colonial white pigment ink. Dry it with the heat tool, then over stamp slightly off-set using the same color ink as the cardstock.
My picture doesn't show it up as well as in person.

Thanks for hopping with us.

If you're interested in getting this clear stamp set at a discount or FREE, contact me or visit my website

Other challenges with this card:
Craft Your Passion - Bling & Red or Heart

Clear Christmas Card - HAS Swap

2011-01-09T10:49:00.000-05:00

Here we are into the New Year and I realized that I forgot to post this card last month.

This is a clear card made for the Humble Artists Swap.
Some of the requirements was to a Clear Card, Multiple layers, a background stamp, Bling, Glitter, Designer Brad, & dimensional Element.

Find Your Style - January Stamp of the Month

2010-12-31T21:12:00.008-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Welcome to the January Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! Can you believe it's 2011 already!

If you've gome here from Krista's blog, then you're on the right track. But, if youn just happened upon my blog, have no fear. You can follow the hop right from here because this hop is actually a round robin. You can start here and end here. The entire list can be found on Helen's Blog.

For my card today, I used the New Wings Paper Pack along with the "Find Your Style" SOTM.

The Hand Stitching was done with matching Sweetleaf Embroidery Floss and some sweetleaf embellishments and Juniper Grosgrain ribbon.

Now, hop on over to Haley's Blog and see her fabulous artwork.

CTMH December Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2010-11-30T21:00:00.003-05:00

I'm sorry but you won't be seeing a card from me today. I'm out of town with family and didn't make it back home yet.

But you can definately enjoy the blog hop without my card so please hop on over to Kimberley's blog to see her amazing artwork.

This is a round robin hop so even if you start here, by going to the next person at the end of each post, you will see them all.

A Little Thanks - CTMH November Stamp of the Month

2010-10-31T21:03:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the November Stamp of the Month Blog Hop. This is a fabulous stamp set of 16 stamps and a perfect way to say Thank You in so many different ways.

If you came here from Jenifer's Blog then you’re on the right path. If you’d like to start from the very beginning, or you need to see the entire list, then go to Helen’s Blog. This hop is a round robin so no matter where you start, you will end up back there again.

My card today is made with the Olivia Paper Pack from Close to my Heart.
I also used The stamp set called Harvest Home. I thought this set was very appropriate to use with this Stamp of the Month.

The Hand Stitching was done with matching Embroidery Floss and the white pearls were colored with Copic Markers.

Thanks for taking time to visit our blogs. We'd love it if you'd leave us a sweet comment.

You now want to hop on over to Sarita's Blog and see what fabulous eye candy she has for you

You're Great - Two Birthday Cards - PCP Sketch Challenge

2010-10-07T12:06:00.000-04:00

Sorry this is such a quick and short post. So much to do and so little time.
I have two grandson's who are having a Birthday next week. They are brothers and one will turn 1 and the other 2. So, we're leaving Saturday for a long trip to our Son's home for a Birthday Party. To speed things up a little I made both cards using the same stamp set and papers and even the sketch.

The cards were inspired by the Sketch Challenge at Paper Craft Planet Saturday Sketch Challenge. I normally post all of my challenges on my other blog, but because everything is CTMH, I put it here.

The papers are Twitterpated and the Stamp set is You're Great.

I used The Works Alphabet set for the names.
Hand Stitching was done with Matching Embroidery Floss.

I also made these cards for the Creative Inspiration Challenge Blog with a Birthday Theme.

Share The Magic - October SOTM Blog Hop

2010-09-30T21:00:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the Close to my Heart October Stamp of the Month Blog Hop It’s really hard for me to adjust to the fact that it’s October already. Especially since the temperature today was 80° here in PA.

If you came here from Teri’s Blog then you’re on the right path. If you’d like to start from the very beginning, or you need to see the entire list, then go to Kathleen’s Blog. This hop is a round robin so no matter where you start, you will end up back there again.

Today we are featuring the Stamp Set called “Share the Magic”. This is a very cute Christmas Set and just perfect for making your own gift tags. Wish I’d have made some to show.

My card today is made with the snowman and tree. I glued B&T from the Mistletoe Collection onto cardstock. Then I stamped the Tree in New England Ivy Ink and cut out. Then I applied Red Sparkles where the ornaments are stamped. Then I added white liquid appliqué to the bands on the tree. Since it's an outside scene, I wanted it to look l,ike snow. If you use the tree as an indoor scene, you can treat those bands as garland.
After coloring the snowman, I coated the white part with liquid glass then sprinkled on Diamond Dust. I attached three black pearls for his buttons.

For the snow under the snowman, I also coated with Liquid Glass then sprinkled on Faux Flower Soft that I made by rubbing two pieces of Styrofoam together and using the dust that was left behind. This makes wonderful snow.

The three snowflakes at the bottom were coated with Bonding Memories glue then Prisma Glitter. I attached a white pearl to the center of each.

I used white Embroidery Floss for the Hand stitching around the card. I wanted it to look like snow flakes!

If you like our cards, please leave us all a sweet comment. We love hearing from you and love to know how we;re doing!!!

Now hop on over to Cindy's Blog and see the wonderful artwork she has to share with you.

Thriller - CTMH September Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2010-08-31T21:00:00.005-04:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Month Blog Hop! We will be featuring September's SOTM, which is D1442 - Thriller, a set of 9 stamps.

If you have come here from Brae's Blog, you are on the right path! If this is your first stop, you may want to go back to Helen's Blog and start from the beginning! Or, you can continue right from here and when you eventually get here again, you know you've visited them all. Just click on the name at the bottom of this post to continue on.

This month we have 68 Close To My Heart Consultants sharing their creations using this month's SOTM and other great CTMH products on their blogs. This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

My card today is called a Spring Card. The reason for the name is that is lays flat for mailing but springs up when taken out of the envelope.

The paper for this card is from the Hooligan's Level II paper pack - X7129B. I also added some Sunset and Gypsy CS. However, you can use the reverse side of the B&T for those colors.

I stamped two of the images onto the Gypsy CS using Black Ink. I cleaned my stamps then went over the same stamps with the Bonding Memories wide tip glue pen (1512) stamped right over the original image lining up as perfect as possible, then covered with Black Glitter. Make sure to clean your stamp immediately after stamping.
I used a sizzix die for the spider and bats. I added glue to them and then black glitter.
I added 3 of the NEW purple sparkles to two of the corners.

I also edged the edges nof the black square with Bonding Memories Glue and added Black Glitter to the edges. Unfortunately, the photos don't really show all the sparkle from the glitter.
Now "Hop" on over to Sylvia's Blog to see her work! Be sure to visit all the Consultants at their Blogs to get some great crafting ideas and other fun ideas! We'd all love if you left us som Lovin comments!

Remember, the September SOTM is only available until September 30, 2010. Contact your CTMH Consultant or click here to see how you can get this stamp set at a discount or even free!

Here is a side view.

Here is a back view.

Something Splendid

2010-08-18T19:34:00.000-04:00

Here is a card I made with my clubs this week. It uses the small fvlowers in the Close to my Heart Stamp of the Month called Something Splendid. I posted a card using the big flower on August 1st, but so many people only use the large flower and over look the small ones.

I got my inspiration for this card from a sketch over at The Glitterbabe's Challenge Blog.

The papers used are from the Cherry-O collection from Close to my Heart.I used Island Blossom dew Drops on three of the flower centers and in the corners.

Treasure Life - Faux Flower Soft

2010-08-16T00:13:00.005-04:00

I've admired projects made with flower soft for so long now but I just couldn't get myself to purchase any of it. It's such a hard choice to make because there are so many color to choose from and it's a little pricey.

So, I discovered that I could make my own.

I did this project for my one club on Friday and for my team at our unit meeting on Saturday and they all loved it.

It's very easy. Get two Styrofoam balls and rub them together over your craft try. You will get lots of fine little partials of Styrofoam. Now, carefully store this in a container. I use the empty tubes that our ribbon rounds come in. Now, when you want a certain color to match your project, just take any type of container and add about 1 tablespoon of rubbing alcohol and about 5 drops of re-inker. Then add the Styrofoam shavings and stir. The amount of drops of re-inker may vary depending on the intensity of the color you are looking for. Dump it out on something to let dry. I used aluminum foil. Spread it out in a thin layer. It will dry lighter. When dry, put it in a container. I use baby jars that I had been saving.

That’s all that’s to it.

I used the liquid glass as my adhesive. Just color in your image with liquid glass and pile on your faux flower soft. Press down then shake off excess. You can use your dry emboss tool or paper piercer to move any back that might spread out for you. I then added some prisma glitter on top . This works down into all the nooks and crannies where your flower soft may leave. Let this dry several hours then brush off the excess.

My picture does not do this justice. It really is gorgeous!!! All of the edges are distressed with matching ink.

Try it and let me know what you think!!!

The inspiration for this card came from a sketch over at StampInsanity..

The challenge this week over at TheCorrosive Challenge is to use Faux Techniques.

Fruitful Delight - Spring Card

2010-08-15T15:15:00.003-04:00

Here is a card that I LOVE making. It's called a Spring Card. That's because when you take it out of the envelope, it springs up. How cleaver!!!
I've been wanting to try my hands at this card for months now and finally decided Ito do this for my class and clubs. For it, I used the Fruitful Delights Clear stamp set from Close to my Heart. I may try and do a tutorial on this design sometime soon. I normally color with my Copic Markers, however, since I'm doing this for classes, I chose to usae a different method. I stamped the strawberries on the white CS, then again two more times on Holiday Red CS. I cut out the bunch of three then one single berry. Shadded with a cranberry marker, and highlighted with a white gel pen. Then mounted the berries with foam tape. The leaves were colored with a Topiary Marker. The striped paper is from the Cherry-O Paper Pack. The Cranberry CS was cuttlebugged with the swiss dots folder. The stamps used on the tag are from a Stamp set called Fringed Phrases

This card was also submitted to Just Scraps Challenge Blog. - Anything Goes.

Something Splendid - August Stamp of the Month

2010-07-31T21:00:00.003-04:00

Welcome to our Stamp of the Mopnth Blog Hop. We will be featuring August's Stamp of the month, which is D1424, Something Splendid., a set of 13 stamps.

This month we have a fabulous stamp set called Something Splendid. This stamp set contains 13 individual clear stamps.

This month we have about 70 Close to my Heart Consultants sharing their artwork with this stamp set. So grap your favorite drink, sit back & relax and enjoy the show!

So, on with the Blog Hop.
If you're following the blog from the beginning and you came here from Dawn's Blog, you're on the right path.

If you're starting with my blog, then you will click on the link at the bottom of my post and each person's after mine. When you arrive back at mine again, you know you have seen them all.

If you get lost along the way, or come across a broken link, then go to Kathleen's blog for the entire list. You can also start the hop there.

Just a little tip. If you prefer to hop from the list, just hold the "Control" key down while clicking on each person's link, it will open their blog up in a new window. That way, you just close each window and you are always on the blog with the list.

Now, hop on over to Lori Miller's Blog and see what awesone Eye Candy she has for you!

You're Great - Easel Card - Sweet Sketch Wednesday + Tutorial

2010-07-26T17:54:00.004-04:00

I made this card for my grandson's 1st Birthday. This is the baby and his sister that I take care of during the week while his mommy and daddy work. My daughter thinks she is so lucky to have me, BUT, what she doesn't realize is that I'M the lucky one to be able to do so.

Here's my little Birth day Boy.

I got the inspiration for this card from another great sketch over at Sweet Sketch Wednesday. The sketch is the front, but I made it into an easel card.

The papers are from the Magic Moments Paper pack from Close to my Heart.
The stamp is from a set of clear stamps from CTMH called "You're Great."
The Hand Stitching is done with Matching Embroidery Floss.
The Happy Birthday is from a stamp set called It's Your Day.
The Dark Blue Sparkles are so new that they won't be available for purchase until September 1st.

PRODUCT TUTORIAL
The name "jeffrey" was made by using the Lots of Dots letter stickers. The are white and the dots on them are a residt. So, I colored the letters with the matching ink pads and a sponge dauber. The easiest way I found of coloring the letters is to remove them from the alphabet sheet and stick them to the plastic bad they come in. I use a spong dauber to color each one, then wipe over them with a tissue to remove any excess ink from the dots and also from the plastic bag. I then just remove each letterfrom the plastic and place it where you want it.

If you like this card, papers, embroidery floss, and stampset, you can just follow the links above to order them directly from my website.

Happy Forever - Truly Scrumptios Sketch Challenge

2010-07-17T14:00:00.000-04:00

Well, Convention was fabulous again this year. As a matter of fact, I believe it was the best one ever. But then I've been saying that for the past 13 years. So may great new product to play with and I get my bundles on Tuesday. Can't wait to make some Christmas Cards!!! I love doing Christmas In July and didn't get around to planning anything for this year.

This is my first creation since being home. Well, it actually was on of my cards for my club yesterday.
It's a set called Happy Forever. There are four hedgehogs and three sentimernts.
Isn't he the cutest!!! And if you look closely, you will notice that I used some of the NEW colored pearls that will be available in the Fall/Winter Catalog. Check out hi Belly Button!!!

This card was inspired by by a sketch from Truly Scrumptious Sketch Blog.
I used the flip side of the Splendor paper with flowers. I wanted it to be more masculine since I forgot to make a card for my son for his birthday and have no time if I want to get it in the mail today. What do you think??? Is it masculine enough???

The hedgehog was colored in using the stencil technique. This is the first stamp set since the Teddy Bears years ago that I used this technique for. The may have been one in between, but I'm having a Senior Moment and can't remember what the image was.

Live Inspired - CTMH Convention Swap Card

2010-07-02T16:55:00.006-04:00

I hope you all enjoyed the July SOTM Blog Hop yesterday. If you haven't had a chance to do so, the information for it and my card is in the post before this one.

Well, I finally did it. I got 35 swap cards made and THREE days left to make more. Yeah right!!!

I told my team months ago that because of the chronic pain I've had for more then a year, that I was not making swap cards this year. Well, they sort of talked me into it and said how much fun I'd miss. But honestly, after 13 years of convention swap cards, it seemed like more of a chore then fun. The pain did not allow me to make them anyway so I gave up on the idea. Then a wonderful thing happened to me last Wednesday. I went to the Hospital for an Epidural. Well, they shot steroids into my spine and 95% of my chronic pain is gone. So, last night after the kids went home I started on some cards. I expect to have 35 of them done by this evening. I have to send the grandbabies home first because having a 1 year old and a 3 yr. old with me all day does not make a very productive card making day.

This card was inspired by a sketch from Card Patterns Sketch #70

The paper pack used is called Top Stitch.

The Main Stamp set is "Live Inspired" - C1408.
I also used the little butterflies from "A Flitter" - A1108

Other challenges using this card:
Incy Wincy - Things with Wings
If the Shoe Fits Scrap It - Wings

CTMH July SOTM Blog Hop - Happy Forever

2010-06-30T21:00:00.008-04:00

Well, here we are again for another Stamp of the Month (SOTM) Blog Hop.

If you came here from Chris Shouse's Blog, then you are on the right path.
It's quite all right if you are starting here with me. Just continue from here to the next person linked at the bottom of each post. When you get back to me again, you know you have completed the round with everyone.
If you'd like to start at the very beginning or are looking for the entire list, then Go to Helen's Blog.

This wonderful stamp set consists of nine stamps with four of the cutest Hedgehogs.

I love to use Red, White & Blue for my Summer cards between Memorial Day and Labor Day. I just think these colors are just so fitting for any occasion.
My colors are Moonstruck and Cranberry. The B&T is from Cherry-O.

The image was colored with Copic Markers. However, when I teach my class with this set, I'm going to make a stencil and use it to color with chalks. Just didn't have time to make stencil yet.

The Hand Stitching was done with matching Embroidery Floss!

The inspiration for this card came from a sketch at Sketch Saturday.
Now hop on over to Kim's Blog for more Eye Candy!!!

June SOTM - Wonderful Friend

2010-05-31T21:04:00.007-04:00

Well, here is it, June 1st already. and time for another fabulous

Stamp of the Month Blog Hop.

If you’re not familiar with how a blog hop works, you just click on the name at the end of this post to go to the next person, and so on. However, before you do, I’d love it if you’d leave a comment at the end so I know how you liked my cards.

If you want to start from the very beginning, start here with Kathleen.
If you are following in order from the beginning, you would have come here from Kim’s Blog.

I have four cards to share with you today. All using the Stamp Set called "Wonderful Friends"

The first one is a 5”x7” card and has my signature Hand Stitching done with matching Embroidery Floss on it. This one was made for my DH.

I used the Cherry-O Creative Basics for the background.
I used a Spellbinders Fancy Tags Die for the sentiment. I colored the Colonial White Designer Brads with a Copic Markers

The next three cards were made for my clubs and workshops this month. I was determined to use every stamp in the set.

This first one is a standard A2 card and is similar to my larger hand stitched card. This one is workshop friendly.

This card is also a standard A2 card. I used the puddle pad technique and stamped my background.

The third card is 4” x 8.5 and sized to fit in a business envelope.
All materials are CTMH except for this ribbon. It just matched perfectly.

I hope you liked my cards. It’s now time to hop on over to Alison’s Blog and see what great Eye Candy she has in store for you.

Love You Forever - HAS April swap card

2010-05-12T14:19:00.002-04:00

I forgot to post this card a while back. This was made for the Humble Artists Swap which we have every two months. We have very specific guidelines. Here they are.

-Use at least one alphabet stamp set
-Have at least three stamped images (can be featured or background)
-Use at least one colour cardstock, from each of 3 different colour palettes
-Use embossing wet or dry (you may use cuttlebug; sizzix; nestabilities or other means for dry embossing)
-There must be at least 7 layers (this means in one spot, I should be able to count 7 layers....make sense?)
-There must be at least 3 different embellishments (can be ribbon; waxy flax; buttons; brads; flowers.......)
-Use only paper featured in the Spring catalogue
-Card must be no smaller than 4 1/4 x 5 1/2
-Use only CTMH products"

My card is 5.5”x5.5” and was made into an easel card because I’m addicted to them.
The papers I used are from the Caboodle paper pack.
I used “The Works” alphabet set for BABY.
All of my images were embossed with Clear Detail EP.

The hand stitching was done with matching embroidery floss.

CTMH May SOTM Blog Hop

2010-04-30T21:49:00.003-04:00

Well, here we are, another month into the year and it's time for another Close to my Heart Blog Hop.
Not only does this kick off a new month, but also a NEW CATALOG!!!

If you have been following the blog hop from the beginning, then you should have come here from Kathleen's Blog . If you just came across this hop by chance, then you can continue from here and just click on the person listed at the end of this post. When you get back to me you know you've seen them all.
If you'd like to start from the beginning, please go to Helen's Blog and start there.

My card today uses the May Stamp of the Month, Cherish the Moment. This set comes with a total of 8 stamps.

I used the one that say Happy Birthday. I stamped it in Chocolate ink and then used clear detail embossing powder on top to make it stand out more. I also colored a small half pearl with my brown Copic Marker and placed it on the image to mark the box that says "Young at heart".

The papers used are form the NEW Cherry-O, Creative basics pack. It even comes with a roll of this yummy velvet ribbon.

The hand stitching around the card was done with Blush Embroidery Floss.

The flowers and ferns were punched from various punches and the border punch is MS.
The sketch Challenge #16 is from The Pixie Cottage.

Now, hop on over to Katy Donaldson's Blog for more fabulous eye candy!

April Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2010-03-31T22:12:00.002-04:00

Welcome to the Close to my Heart, April Stamp of the Month Blog Hop.
If you're starting here for the hop, just click on the next person at the end of this post. When you get back to me, you know you've seen them all.

If you want to start at the very begining, then you want to start here at Helen's Blog. There you will also find a complete list of Bloggers in case you get lost or a link doesn' t work.

The inspiration for my card came from Skipping Stones Tuesday Sketch. I'm addicted to sketches. I just can't get enough.

My card uses the new April Stamp of the Month, called "Flower Pot". Flowers are one of my favorite things to use in card making.

The B&T is from the Caboodles Collection and the ribbon is Sorbet.

I used stickles on the flowers for just a little glitz!

Now, hop on over to Barbara's blog and see what great artwork she has to share.

Bunny Love - Papertake Weekly Challenge

2010-03-13T19:22:00.003-05:00

Here are two more cards using the CTMH stamp set called Bunny Love.

The inspiration for this first card came from a sketch challenge over at the Papertake Weekly Challenge Blog.
The paper is retired Precious Paisley's from CTMH.

This card was inspired by a sketch from the Peachy Keen Blog.

Bunny Love - ICSketches $57

2010-03-13T19:11:00.000-05:00

I thought I lost this stamp set but fortunatley I found it. I think these bunnies are just the cutest.
My card today was inspired by sketch #57 from ICSketches. I decided to make a regular A2 size card rather than a long skinny one.
The paper I used is called Precious Paisleys from Close to my Heart. This paper is discontinued, but I love it for spring cards.

The CTMH stamp set is called Bunny Love. The Bunny was stamped and colored twice. Then one was cut out and layered with foam tape for dimension.

I used a variety of punches to make the flower and leaves and a Fiskars's border punch.

A Little Everything SOTM Blog Hop

2010-02-28T22:44:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the March Stamp of the Month (SOTM) Blog Hop.

This is a Round Robin blog hop, so no matter who's blog you start with, when you return to that same blog, you know you've been through them all. Just click on the person's name at the end of this post to take you to the next one.

Today we are featuring the set "A Little Everything". And as the name implies, it does have a little for every occasion. It has a variety of words that can be combined for various sentiments.

Although this set can be used alone, for my card today, I've teamed it up with the Stamp Set "Enjoy Every Moment".

Since I love flowers, this has been one of my favorite sets from the Spring Catalog. and thought the two worked perfect together.

The paper pack is from the Veranda Collection.

The Hand Stitching around the card was done with matching Embroidery Floss.

Now, hop on over to Dawn's Blog to see her fantastic Artwork and please leave each of us a little love along the way.

Enjoy Every Moment

2010-02-18T10:34:00.000-05:00

The details of this card is posted here.
This is on my Challenge blog but since it is CTMH products, I needed it here too.

Piece of Cake - Truly Scrumptious Sketch Challenge

2010-02-08T19:55:00.001-05:00

Even thought I'm a CTMH consultant, I'm not always thrilled over some of the Stamp of the Month's (SOTM) that I'm more or less forced to use. The February SOTM, however, is quite an exception. I didn't realize how much fun this set could be until I started playing with it.

Here I used a sketch from the Truly Scrumptious Sketch Challenge blog. What a cool sketch. Anyway, The card was fun to make and now, here I am ready to post it here as well as link it to the Truly Scrumptios blog and realized that I did not write down the extra challenge with the sketch of using buttons and bows, How could I have forgotten this? Well, it's too late to change it because it's been sold and out the door already.

The paper I used is from CTMH called Daydreaem and is actually retired, but it went so perfectly with the birthday theme.
The stamp set, from CTMH, is called Piece of Cake and is the February Stamp of the Month. If you scroll down or click here, you'll see the gift tags I made with this set.

The paper flower and leaves was made with punches and the Hand Stitching around the card was done with matching embroidery floss.
Stickles was used on the cakes for sparkle.

Enjoy Every Moment - Mojo Monday 124

2010-02-06T11:52:00.000-05:00

I normally post my sketch challenges on my other blog, but I'm the New DT Coordinator of the Sugar Babies over at The Sweet Stop Sketch Challenge Blog, and needed to post that card over there this morning. Since this is a CTMH image, thought it best to post this here.

This card is using the Mojo Monday Sketch 124. Another GREAT sketch this week. And, as you know, I am addicted to sketches.

I think I'm also addicted to this stamp set from CTMH called Enjoy Every Moment. However, I really need to start creating with the other two images in the set. Maybe tomorrow!!!

The paper is from the Caboodle Paper Pack.
The embellishment below the pearls is one of the Tiny Tabs. They are metal, but I managed to cut off the bottom part so it looks like a flower on top of an image from the NEW stamp set called Cherished Flourishes.
It's probably hard to see, but there two of the larger flowers were stamped, colored and cut out then pop dotted for a 3D affect.

The Hand Stitching was done with matching Embroidery Floss

Piece of Cake - February SOTM Blog Hop

2010-01-31T21:00:00.005-05:00

Welcome to the February Stamp of the Month Blog Hop.

Oh My!!! Can you believe it's February already. Time flies when you're having fun. And boy did I ever have fun with this set. Unfortunately, I had a bit of a disaster with my card and am unable to post it. So, my gift tags are all you will be seeing today. But, that's OK because I like the way they turned out.
Check back in a day or two if you'd like to see my card.

If you've come her from Dawn's blog, you're on the right path. However, if you're starting with my blog, just click on the name at the end of this post and continue through each one until you get back to mine again.

I used a nestabilities Label Four Die. I used the largest die and cut six out of white. I stamped the images with Memento Black Ink and colored with Copic Markers.

I then put the die back on and sponged around the edges with the desired color. Then adhered it to the same color of cardstock that I sponged with. Now, the hardest part of this whole process is free hand cutting the colored cardstock to leave a small edge around each tag.
I punched a hole in the top and treaded white ric rac through the hole.

I think they need something yet, but I don't have time to play with it. I think I may add either a small matching bow or button to the top of each one at the hole.

Please leave a little bit of Love for each of us along the way.

We love to hear your comments on our artwork.

Now hop on over to Susan's blog to see the fabulous eye candy she has for you.

Childhood Portrait - Easel Card

2010-01-24T12:32:00.013-05:00

My card today is an easel card using the Childhood Portrait Stamp Set from Close to my Heart.
Whether I'm making cards for myself to have on hand or to sell, I try to make it able to fit more occasions and people. This card started out as a Valentine, but I change it around a bit so it could be a valentine for the love of your life or to a special friend. I could even send one like thios to my daughter and family. What about an Anniversary Card. That's how versatile it is.
The picture above is what it looks like when you have it open and sitting up. Hence the name Easel Card.

This picture is when it's closed. I made mine 5.5 x 5.5.

It has Hand Stitching around the card done with matching Embroidery Floss.

The colors are Tulip and Chocolate.

This is a picture of the card when it is completely open. There is plenty of room to write your own personal message. The message will not be seen when it is open and sitting up in the Easel position.

This card is also for the La La Land Challenge , As well as The Corrosive Challenge Blog, for making a fancy fold card.

AND, for the Crafty Cardmaker's Challenge #13 for Hearts and Romance.

Here is the sketch I used for inspiration. It's the CCEE Stampers sketch Challenge

So Sweet - Sketch & Stash Challenge

2010-01-23T09:20:00.002-05:00

I finally got around to using this new stamp set from Close to my Heart called "So Sweet". The new paper pack, also from CTMH, is called Veranda. This is my favorite one from the new Spring 2010 catalog.

For this card, I used the sketch from Sketch and Stash #27 for my inspiration. The flowers were stamped twice, cut out and layered for a 3D affect.
The ribbon is Juniper Grosgrain and the mini brads are juniper also.

I used matching embroidery floss for the Hand Stitching around the card.

January SOTM Blog Hop

2009-12-31T21:07:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the January 2010 Stamp of the Month Blog Hop. If this is your first stop, then all you need to do is click on the name at the end of this post to go onto the next person and see their fantastic artwork. You will continue to do that until you return back to me. Then you'll know you have seen them all.

If by some chance, there is a broken link, I have the list of participants in the column to the right.

My card for today is combined with the January SOTM and the Constant Campaign for this month called Felicity. Since they are both on special until January 31st, I've decided to present them both together.

The papers, birds and flowers are from the Felicity packet and the frame that the bird is around is from the "True Friends" Stamp of the Month. Don't they just go great together!

The stitching along the left and bottom is done by hand with matching embroidery floss.

I used a sketch from Sunday Sketch and Stamp Challenge. I love to do some of the Internet Sketch Challenges in conjunction with the sketches in our new Wishes book.

Now hop on over to Maricar Harris' Blog for more Eye Candy

Ornate Ornaments

2009-12-08T09:06:00.000-05:00

I've had this stamp set for ages and finally decided to use it. The making of this card took a lot of thought and so much time to make, but I'm pleased with the finished product.

I used a sketch from Just Us Girls Challenge week 10. for inspiration. This is such a wonderful sketch and has so many possibilities. I know I'll come back to this one again.

Stamp set is from Close to my Heart and is called Ornate Ornaments. This set is also available in French and Spanish.

The colors of cardstock are Cranberry and New England Ivy.

I used Copic Markers to color the ornaments.

Gold red and green Glitter was added to the ornaments

Acetate Card

2009-11-23T13:33:00.000-05:00

I loved making these cards last year and forgot about them until I ran into this challenge blog called Crafty Cardmakers. Their challenge was to use something clear. I think I liked last years cards better since I used snowmen, but this one is growing on me.

These cards are so much fun because you work your way back from the front. Each of my laters was 1/4" bigger the the one in front.

For this card I used Close to my Heart, Heartfelt Christmas Stamps for the front and the saying inside. And CTMH Snowflurries Stamps to stamp on the acetate using white StazOn.

Order three stamp sets of your choice and the one of lesser or equal value will be FREE

If you like these stamps and would like to check out the other stamps in the sets, just click on the names of the sets above and it will take you right to my website to see them. If you purchase both of these fantastic sets, you will qualify to get a free Stamp set of your choice, of equal or lesser value for FREE!!! And it can all be ordered right there on my website and have it in your home next week to start your Christmas cards.

November Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2009-11-01T03:50:00.000-05:00

Well here we are again. Another month has passed us by so quickly and it's time again for another Stamp of the Month Blog Hop.

Today we are featuring a fantastic Stamp Set called Around the Block. You can make so many cool houses with this stamp set which consists of 26 individual stamps.

If you came here from Tammy's blog, you are on the right track. If you just happened across my blog first, you can either start at the beginning, or continue from here. This is a round robin so when you get back here, you know you've completed the round. If at any time there is a broken link or you get lost, the list is in my sidebar.

My card today is using a sketch from Delightful Sketches #10. I am totally addicted to sketch challenges.

The paper pack I used for my card is a retiring pack called Aspen. I just love this paper and thought it went really well with the stamps.

The house was stamped with VersaMark onto Twilight CS then white embossing powder was added and heated. I used liquid applique on the roof, window sills and on the ground. I then added prisma glitter to all of the snow and snowflakes. Don't you just love sparkle. Especially around this time of the year.

The ribbon is from the Outdoor Denim Ribbon Rounds and the center of the snowflakes are the connections club half pearls.

I did a bit of hand sewing with matching Creme Brule embroidery floss.

Starting November 3rd, you can purchase two stamp sets and get one FREE. Those two purchases can help you get this fabulous Stamp of the month discounted or FREE!!! Email Me today with any questions or to place an order. If you don't have the newest Idea Book, you can check out ll of our products, right here on my website.

OK, it's time to move right along to Judy's Blog and see what fantastic eye candy she has waiting for you.

Beary Best - Mojo Sketch 108

2009-10-18T19:15:00.000-04:00

Here is a card I made for my Son-In-Law for his birthday. Size is 5" x 7"

I used Sketch 108 from Mojo Monday.

Everything used is from Close to my Heart.

The stamp set is called Beary Best.

The paper pack is Back Country.

Outdoor Denim twill used across the bottom and Barn Red Embroidery Floss used for the Hand Stitching around the card.

Flourished Blessings, You're A Hoot - Tri Shutter Card

2009-10-15T01:35:00.000-04:00

I just love making these cards. This is called a Tri Shutter Card and the instructions can be found HERE on SCS.

This card is for the Belli Challenge #76 over at Creative Belli Blog.

The Theme is Fall/Thanksgiving with a leaf.

This is the card open.

This is the card almost closed.

SUPPLIES:

CTMH Twitterpated Paper Pack

Flourished Blessings Stamp set

You're A Hoot Stamp Set

I like this paper because the colors are not your traditional fall colors.

Colors are: Sweet Leaf, Sorbet, & Chocolate.

CTMH October SOTM Blog Hop

2009-10-01T00:19:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the Close to my Heart, October Stamp of the Month Blog Hop.

This is group #2. When you are finished with this group, you can click on the first name of another group and view all of those fabulous works of art. The complete list is in the sidebar to your right.

This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one! Here we go!

This is a 5" x 7" card and I used the Midnight Madness Sketch Challenge #21 for the design of the card.

Paper and ribbon are from the Jingle Creative Basics paper pack.

The image was colored using Copic Markers.

I used the half pearls from the connections club and colored them tulip to match the paper.

The tree was stamped twice. One was cut out and layered for a 3D affect.

The stitching around the card was done by hand with embroidery floss.

Now "Hop" on over to Krista's Blog to see her gorgeous work!

If you get lost on the hop or find links that aren't working, you can find the complete list in the column to your right.

Childhood Portraits

2009-09-08T18:42:00.000-04:00

Well, I've been dying to play with the set and sometimes with me, it take something to force me to get things done. My daughter and son-in-law celebrated their 7th wedding anniversary yesterday so I decided to use this stamp set for their card. I combined it with the Grace paper pack and I jusy love the two together.

I used our Connections Club Half Pearls in the corners. Everything is CTMH except for the ribbon and the embroidery floss I used for the hand stitching.

Treasures - Sept. Stamp of the Month Blog Hop

2009-09-01T01:31:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the CTMH September Stamp of the Month Blog Hop. If you hopped along with us last month, you already know what phenomenal artwork you are in store for today.

If you came here from Donni's blog, then you are on the right path. If you just happened to start with mine, then you will want to check out the list of participants in the right column of this blog and start from the beginning. You won't want to miss a single piece of ART!

This is simple to do - just click on the link at the end of the post on each blog to move to the next one!

This month's Stamp Set, Treasures, is just such a fantastic set. You can get this stamp set for 25%, 50%, 75% off or FREE, with a qualifying purchase. You will find this set a "Must Have" by the times you check out the fantastic artwork of all 71 Consultants in this blog hop.

For my card, I used the new paper pack called Twitterpatted. The colors in this paper are, Crystal Blue, Sweetleaf, Sorbet, and Chocolate. This is a great paper pack for your fall scrapbook pages, cards, or any other type of paper craft you might want to do.

The inks I used are Chocolate and Sorbet. The small pearls in the center of the flowers are from the half pearls that you can earn FREE with your filled Connections Club Card. See ME or your CTMH consultant for details on how you can get yours. I colored them with my Copic Marker to match.

The stitching around the card is all done by hand in my unique design with embroidery floss. I thought it sort of resembles the little seeds flying around from the dandelion flower. I have a passion for hand sewing.

Thanks for checking out my artwork. Stop back again soon.
Now it's time to hop on over to Traci's Blog and see what great Eye Candy she has in store for you.

Christmas Card workshop - August09

2009-08-24T11:30:00.000-04:00

Here are the four cards that I came up with for my Christmas in August card workshop.

Each person will be making 4 of each card for a total of 16 cards.

Paper used is from the Aspen Paper Pack.
Stamps are New Fallen Snow, Christmas Melodies, Snow Friends, Shining Star, & Wonderful Season.

New Fallen Snow

2009-08-24T11:21:00.000-04:00

Here is one of the cards I was playing around with for my 16 card Christmas Card workshop.

I used New Fallen Snow stamp set along with Christmas Melodies for the word Noel and a sprig punch.

The paper is from the Aspen Paper Pack. I really like these colors for any "snow" cards.
This paper works great for "Any Occasion" cards during the winter season.

Treasures - Sept. SOTM - Circle Card

2009-08-17T01:37:00.000-04:00

Why is it that the older we get the busier we are. Shouldn't it really be just the opposite!

I've just been spending so much time making cards for my etsy shop that I have been ignoring my smaller simple cards. Well, that's got to change and this new Fall/Winter catalog from Close to my Heart is just what I need to get me back in the groove.

Here is my first attempt at a circle card. This is from the new "Wishes" Card book from CTMH. I didn't use the template from the book, but rather just used my coluzzle to cut it out. I'm sure going to miss that tool when it is discontinued.
I'm not sure if I like circle cards. The jury's still out on that one. But it is different. I think I just like cards that I can sit up and admire and this one just rolls. Not to mention that it was hard to scan straight!!! Other then that, I think the round cards are cute.

So, here is my first card using the CTMH September Stamp of the Month (SOTM), Treasures, and the new Twitterpated paper. I also used three of our new flat pearls that are new for the connections club rewards. I LOVE those half pearls!!! I used chocolate ink and ribbon. The ribbon is tied around the fold of the card.

It's Your Day

2009-08-09T20:38:00.000-04:00

This stamp set just wasn't my style and I almost didn't use it at all. However, while hopping through the blog hop on the 1st, I saw cards that were so cute. So, because I needed to make my granddaughter a birthday card today, I decided to play with it.
I actually had to make two cards so my daughter had one to give also.

Stamp set used is "It's Your Day" the August 2009 Stamp of the month.
I also used the Animal Cookies Paper Pack.
And on the second card, I used the Foam Die-Cut Numbers. I didn't want to heat it and impress a stamp into it, so I just used an embossing folder from my Cuttlebug to give it a little added dimension.
The cake and candles have glitter on them.

Extreme Happiness-CTMH - MMSC11

2009-08-01T23:47:00.001-04:00

I Loved this sketch #11 on Midnight Madness and wanted to play along. This card worked out great in my mind, however, now that I have it on paper, I'm not crazy about it. But, I spent way too much time on it so it will just have to grow on me.

I used paper from the Moon Doggie paper pack from CTMH.

Also used the stamp set Extreme Happiness , also from CTMH.
I used a Martha Stewart Border Punch.

The stitching around the three sides was done by hand using embroidery floss. I make up my own stitch designs. Sometimes they work and sometimes they don't. I got lucky with this one.

The yellow part of the flowers has stickles on them for a little added glitz.

Tee Time-CTMH; MMSC12

2009-08-01T00:08:00.000-04:00

I needed a card today for my husband's birthday so I used this fantastic sketch from this weeks Midnight Madness Sketch #12. This is one time I can actually say I love this card. That's sometimes not the easiest thing for me to do. I'm my worst critic. It looks much better in person though. I couldn't lighten it up enough to look natural. I normally take a picture rather then scan it but I like using natural light and it was dark when I finished it.

Anyway, I followed this sketch to the "TEE". A little late night humor there. I must be overly tired.

All products are CTMH. I used a paper pack called "It's A Guy Thing", and stamp sets called "Tee Time" & "For Every Occasion."

Also used grosgrain ribbon and Big Decorative Brad.

The stitching is done by hand using embroidery floss.

2009-06-22T23:09:00.000-04:00

Inside of card
This is my first card for the Sweet Spot Sketch Challenge.

Everything used on this card is Close to my Heart except for the ribbon and Dew Drops.

Blue Ribbon Paper Pack.
Whimsical Wings and Fringed Phrases Stamp Sets.

This card is 5.5" x 5.5".

Stitching is done by hand with embroidery floss.

It's hard to tell in the scan, but there is clear glitter on the butterfly.

Endless Friendship

2009-06-11T10:18:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I last posted. There just doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day. Not to mention that I found sketch challenges to participate in. This blog hopping can be bad news. All I want to do now is create during my granddaughter's nap times. So much for house work!!!

This card uses all CTMH products. The colors are from Jeanette's Color Me Monday Challenge

Colors are Pansy Purple, Petal, New England Ivy and White.

Stamp Set is D1354-Endless Friendship.

The stitching was done by hand with Embroidery Floss.

There was a lot of work to this but sometimes I just love to express my creativity for something other then my clubs and gatherings.

Be Yourself

2009-05-04T16:09:00.000-04:00

It's been so long since I last posted any artwork. I just haven't been in the creative mood lately.

Here is a 5"x7" card using the May09 SOTM, Be Yourself.
Colors are black, white and Watermelon.

I also used the big flower from the Constant Campaign for this month.

Butterfly Wings

2009-03-11T23:30:00.000-04:00

This is a 5x7 Sympathy card made for my niece Barbara whose husband lost his 21 yr. old son.

Papers are from the Unforgettable paper pack.

Colors are Sorbet, Juniper and Desert Sand.

The flowers are from the Aspirations Stamp Set.

Butterfly Wings

2009-03-11T23:26:00.000-04:00

This is another 8 x 3.5 card.

Colors are Desert Sand & Sorbet CS.

Juniper & Sorbet Inks.

B&T is from Unforgettable.

The flowers are from the Aspiration Stamp set and the stamp kissing is using the Intrinsic Backgrounds stamp set.

Butterfly Wings

2009-03-11T23:23:00.000-04:00

This is an 8 x 3.5 size card.

Unforgettable paper pack used along with Aspiration Stamp Set.

Cocoa ink for the wording and VersaMark Pad and white Embossing powder for the butterfly.

The inspiration for this card came from a similar card made by Bren Yule.

Butterfly Wings

2009-03-11T22:53:00.000-04:00

Here is another 5.25 x 5.25 card.

Paper is Creative Basics Emporium Collection.

Ink colors are Twilight and Sweetleaf.

Butterflies are cut out and Prisma Glitter added to wings.

Butterfly Wings

2009-03-11T20:55:00.000-04:00

Here is a card that I made for a Workshop/Gathering.

The size is 5.25 x 5.25. I wanted it to be 5.5 x 5.5, but I bought the wrong size envelopes.

Anyway, the paper is "Creative Basics Emporium Collection". The sweetleaf paper is from Emporium Level II paper Pack.

I first inked the butterfly with VersaMark ink, then Sweetleaf ink and tamped on the green B&T. I then covered with clear Embossing powder and heat set.

I stamped the wording with twilight ink and heat embossed.

2009-02-09T13:13:00.000-05:00

This is a card from a technique challenge from SCS last Monday. It took me a whole week to get around to trying it. I thought my club members would enjoy making it.

The directions are on my technique page.

Stamps used are Easter Eggs (Feb.09 SOTM), Bunny Love & March Word Puzzle.

Colors used are Tulip, Sorbet, Juniper and Desert Sand. also used a cotton ball to apply blue chalk to the background to look like the sky.

The eggs are stamped and then clear EP is applied and heated, then cut out. If I make another, I think will also heat emboss the tulips on the front of the card also.

This picture is my original sample so please excuse any flaws.

2009-02-04T19:50:00.000-05:00

Here is the fourth Bunny from the stamp set "Bunny Love".

This one I used as a Valentine. The bunny is actually blowing bubbles, but I used the punched out hearts from my heart border as the bubbles.

The Heart with "Some Bunny Loves You" is actually two solid eggs from the "Easter Eggs" stamp set, stamped together to make a heart.

The paper is from "That's Amore" paper pack.
Colors are Chocolate, Tulip and Blush.
I used Liquid glass on all the punched out hears and liquid applique heated for the bunny's tail. I used card sketch 214 from SCS.

Easter Eggs/Card Commentary

2009-01-31T10:45:00.000-05:00

Here is another card using the fantastic February SOTM, Easter Eggs.

I just love this stamp set so much because it is such a versatile set. It can be used for any occasion.

Here the flower is made using one of the eggs and the masking technique. The center is one of the flowers cut out of a scrap piece of the B&T.

The word "dream" is from the Card Commentary set and the background for it was stamped with another one of the eggs with a crackle finish in second generatio
Ink used were Sorbet & Cocoa.

Paper is from the Unforgettable paper pack.

Ribbon is from the Sorbet ribbon collection.

Colonial white & Juniper brads.

Chocolate embroidery floss from the Neutral Assortment.

Bunny Love & Easter Eggs

2009-01-30T17:01:00.000-05:00

Here is the third Bunny in the series.

Stamp sets used are Bunny Love, Easter Eggs-Feb0 SOTM, and March Word Puzzle.
Paper Pack is Unforgettable.
Ink used are Juniper, Tulip & Cocoa.
Bunny was colored with the Fall Color Pallet of chalks. The egg and ribbon are Juniper and Tulip and a water brush.
Liquid applique was used & Heated for the bunny's tail.
Sorbet Brads are in the egg border.
Nestabilities were used for the scallop circles.

Bunny Love

2009-01-29T15:41:00.000-05:00

Here is another card using the February SOTM and Bunny Love.

I used the same SC213 Card sketch as the first one. I just turned this one as a top fold.

I also used the March Word puzzle for the Happy Easter and the grass under the eggs.

Colors of ink are Cocoa, Juniper and Tulip.

Paper pack is Unforgettable.

I used markers for the bunny egg and chalk for the bunny.

The lace borders is the lace egg stamed in a row and cut out. Then I cut the border in hald and used each half on either side of the big panel.

Bunny Love

2009-01-28T20:05:00.000-05:00

This is such a fantastic stamp set and I finally took some time to play with it.

I also used the stamp sets Bunny Love and Adorning Corners, along with paper from the Unforgettable Paper pack.

Ink color are Sorbet and Cocoa along with various markers and a blending pen.

Andrea's Pregnancy Journal

2009-01-14T10:08:00.000-05:00

Here is a Pregnancy Journal that I made for my daughter Andrea. This is her second child, and unfortunately, I never made her one for her first.

I used the January 2009 Stamp of the Month, Moments in Time throughout this journal as well as the March SOTM, Butterfly Wings and Boutique Borders.

The purpose behind this journal is for her to have something to show her daughter when she has her first baby. I wish I had anything at all to remember all of the details when I was pregnant with Andrea that I could have share with her.

I could have just altered a composition book for her, but I wanted to do more then just a written journal. I wanted to make something so she could see pictures of herself during those nine months.
So, I decided it was about time I finally used my Bind-It-All Machine to make a combination photo and written journal.
This will be updated each month as that page is completed.

For the journal pages, I bought some white legal pads and cut them in half. I couldn't find lined paper without holes on the left so this was my best choice. So, this determined the size of the book. I think it's about 5.5" x 8.75".

The outside covers have a Matt page protector around them. The 12x12 protector was just cut in half and then cut down to size.

The pages inside have the clear page protectors around them the same as the cover.

The pictures are in order from the bottom up. That's so I can continue to add photos of the pages as they are completed and they will be in order.

I didn't get all Artsy Fartsy with this book because I needed to get it DONE!

Dream Wishes

2009-01-08T23:00:00.000-05:00

Here's a card I made for thew Humble Artists Card Swap.

Stamp sets used: Dream Wishes & Boutique Borders.

Paper Pack is Emporium Creative Basics which also comes with Vineyard Berry Grosgrain Ribbon.

I used two paper flowers from the "Big Pinks". I inked one with Sweet Leaf Ink and the other with Twilight Ink. I them lightly applied Glue to the petals and then Prisma Glitter. I cut each petal apart and alternated them, applied them to the back of Dimensional Elements Perennials chipboard flower.

I know it's hard to tell, but Sparkles are used in the four corners of the mat and stickles used on the small flowers.

All edges are sponged with Cocoa Ink.

Faux stitching is used around the outer layer of the card.

2008-12-29T22:42:00.000-05:00

Here is a standard 4.25 x 5.5 Top fold card using the Key to My Heart stamp set.
The colors used are Tulip and Creme Brulee.
The technique used on this card is faux stitching.
The card sketch is from SCS card sketch 208.

To get the details of doing the faux stitching, please go to my technique page and clck on faux stitching.

6" X 6" Top Fold Card

2008-12-29T13:49:00.000-05:00

Here is my first creation from the Heart Of Winter Special, "Key t my Heart." This is a 6"x 6" top fold card. I just don't like this card but I don't know how to make it better. I played with it for weeks. Maybe it's just me.

Colors are Juniper, Sorbet, & Tulip.

The techniques used is called faux embossing. I stamped using the white pigment pad and then over stamped, but slightly offset using Juniper ink.

I also used gold embossing powder for the key and around some of the edges, although it looks black in the picture.

To learn how to do the faux dry embossing, go to my techniques page and click on Faux Dry Embossing.

Chillin'

2008-12-11T14:06:00.000-05:00

This card is made using the Chillin' Stamp Set. Don't ya just love these little guys!!!

This is a monochromatic card using just Outdoor Denim Cardstock and ink and White.

The background is done using the cuttlebug snowflake embossing folder. It was so hard for me to leave this card nice & white. I'm so used to sponging the edges of everything.

There is white liquid applique for the snow with glitter on top. I chose not to heat it for this card.

Merry Pursuits

2008-12-11T13:27:00.000-05:00

Here is another card made using Merry Pursuits stamp set and the Evensong Creative Basics Paper Pack. I've included the tree from the Evergreen Stamp Set also.

The snowflakes are cut using the Cricut Christmas Solutions Cartridge.

I've owned my Cricuit for 1 1/2 years and have never used it before this.

I guess that's what happens when you love cutting things out as much as I do.

Merry Pursuits

2008-12-11T13:15:00.000-05:00

Here is one of my Christmas Cards for this year. These went out to the Humble Artists swap members for 2008.

I had planned on this being our family Christmas Card this year, however, they take so darn long to make. AND, Christmas is only two weeks away and it's just not happening. I need to find a quick fast card to make at this late date.

Evensong Creative Basics paper packet used along with Cranberry Cardstock.

The red CS was sanded in both direction.

Stamp sets used are B1313 - Merry Pursuits and D1298 - Beautiful Things.

Liquid applique was used on the Pine Boughs and then glitter.

All edges sponged with Desert Sand.

The button is actually cranberry cardstock and a Sizzlets die.

Heart Throb

2008-12-10T08:53:00.000-05:00

Here is a Valentine that my card club made this month using the Heart Throb Stamp Set.

The colors used are Juniper, Sorbet, Colonial White, Cocoa, and Desert Sand ink for distressing.

Heart Throb

2008-12-07T11:54:00.000-05:00

Here are the two layouts that I'm doing for Tomorrow's Workshop.

I used the Dec 2008 Stamp of the Month - Heart Throb

Cardstock - Sorbet, Juniper, Cocoa, & Colonial White

B&T is from the Perfect Day Paper Pack - X7100B

Inks used - Sorbet, Juniper Cocoa, & Desert Sand for distressing edges.

Sparkles were used in the centers of the tiny flowers on edges of photo mats.

Dimensional Elements Ribbon Accents used on left page along with Colonial White Ribbon.

Close-up Of Left Page

Close-up Of Right Page

All Decked Out

2008-11-14T01:38:00.000-05:00

Here is an Acetate Card. My technique club made this card this month and loved it. It's made using CTMH "All Decked Out", the November Stamp of the Month. You can use any type of clear Transparency film that's thick enough to be used as cardstock for the base of the card.

If you search the Internet, you can find Clear Cardstock. I used Over head transparency Film.

Cute acetate sheet in half and fold in half to form a standard A2 card base. Stamp any image onto the front of the acetate using StazOn Ink in any color. I used Opaque White.

The trick to making this card successfully is to start with the very first layer of cardstock and mount it to the front of the acetate. The mount a slightly larger piece directly behind the top piece concealing the adhesive on the top layer. Continue on with the card in this manner. The last piece of paper gets mounted on the back of the card.

All Decked Out

2008-11-04T11:36:00.000-05:00

This is the left layout.

Designed from Page 29 of Reflections Book.
Bottom Border - Base.

This is the right Layout
Designed from Page 70 of reflections Book.

Front & Center - Trio

Two layouts that I made for a November Workshop.

Stamps used were:
All Decked Out - Nov08 SOTM
Feathery Flakes - D1317
December Word Puzzle - D1313

Also used was the Aspen Level II Paper Pack
Twilight, Black & Creme Brulee Ink Pads.
Also Desert Dans Ink Pad for distressing around every piece of paper.

Liquid Applique - heated and puffed
Liquid Glass added on top of puffed Liquid Applique and Prisma glitter added.
White 3/8 Organdy ribbon dyed using the Twilight Ink Pad.
Twilight Corduroy Brad from the Winter Cozy Collection
White Mini Brads

Bethlehem

2008-10-28T00:16:00.000-04:00

This card was created using the Simple Pleasures Paper Pack along with Desert Sand and Twilight cardstock.

I used the Texture Tool sea sponge to very lightly sponge some desert sand into the white cardstock under the building and the black stupple brush in the sky area.

Bethlehem

2008-10-28T00:12:00.000-04:00

This is a simple card made with our retired B&T paper.
It is a super fast card to create.
I used the color Petal for the papers and ink.

Bethlehem

2008-10-28T00:04:00.000-04:00

This card was created completely by accident. The card I had planned for a make & take at a gathering was left sitting on my table at home. Ink pad included. Luckily I had extra card bases in my bag and a Twilight pad and paper from a project I had just demonstrated. So, after I calmed my self down, I created this card on the fly.

But, I think it was a good accident because I rather like it. I've always heard that there are no accidents in life!