Random Acts Of Creativity

Verve sketches

2012-02-13T08:33:00.004-05:00

I haven't posted for two days, during which some exciting things happened, that got me off track a little bit as well. Some of you might know that we've been on the search for a new house, and we have finally found one! Woo-Hoo!
This means that we will be moving this coming weekend, and the following two weeks or so are suspected to be a mess, lol. I will be only posting what's necessary, my internet connection should be very limited for some time. Nevertheless, I can't wait to move!!

That, and the much hoped for final answer from Spellbinders (that would happen tomorrow morning, I suspect, if I did get chosen), were messing with my head today and I just couldn't concentrate on anything. I guess nervousness is kicking in! However, I sat down to my desk tonight and I have absolutely no regrets that I'm burning the midnight oil again. I love the results :)

I was playing with the two first Verve sketches for February. Here's the card for the week 1:

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Old Olive), American Crafts (brown); papers: Prima (North Country); stamps: Verve (Just For You), Inkadinkado (Bold Damasks); ink: Memento (Pear Tart, Rich Cocoa, Bamboo Leaves); Nestabilities Circles/Scalloped Circles; sewing machine; checked ribbon

Um, yeah... I made the sketch vertical *wink*
I'm also entering this card into the "Best Friend" challenge at Our Creative Corner.

...and here's one for the Week 2!

Supplies: cardstock: white; papers: Crate Paper (Paper Heart), Echo Park Paper (Happy Days), Studio Calico (Countryside); stamps: The Craft's Meow (Fly Free); ink: Memento (London Fog, Tuxedo Black), Versa Magic (Oasis Green); leaves: Flourish with a Bling; sewing machine; ribbon: May Arts; brads; glitter glue; butterfly die: PTI (Love Lives Here); flower: Wild Orchid Crafts; edge distresser

The right way this time, but with modifications:

See you later peeps, hopefully with good news :) Thank you SO much for visiting and the love that you're leaving on these pages!

Jay Gee's Nook - sympathy card

2012-02-11T20:00:00.002-05:00

I'm back yet again with a Jay Gee's Nook post, friends!

I used the gorgeous Poppy stamp from La Blanche. The image is etched in silicone with a thick foam backing, which is quite an unexpected arrangement, but let me tell you, it stamps like buttah!
I paired it with a Hero Arts background stamp and a Verve sentiment.

Supplies: cardstock: Canson (turquoise), kraft; stamps: La Blanche (Poppy), Verve (New Mercies), Hero Arts (Antique Flower Background); ink: Distress Ink (Pumice Stone), Versafine (Onyx Black); seam binding

Hop on over to the JG's Nook blog, to see the rest of the Design Team's creations!

February SFYTT: sweetie-pie

2012-02-11T11:00:00.001-05:00

Have you guys played with February Sketch For You To Try yet?

Your Next Stamp is our sponsor this month, and on top of providing a fabby prize, they generously provided SFYTT players with a discount:

Visit this post for all the details on how to play along, and to link up your entry. You have until the end of the month to join us!

Here's my offering for you today... inspired greatly by Susan Liles' SFYTT card from a week before. Thanks for the inspiration, Susie!

Supplies: cardstock: Stampin' Up! (Regal Rose, Peach Parfait), Canson (red), cream; paper: Crate Paper (Paper Heart); stamps: Penny Black (Sweet Things), Waltzingmouse Stamps (Sweethearts); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black, Lady Bug); Copics; baker's twine; chipboard hearts: Collections; border punch/corner rounder: EK Success; rhinestones: My Mind's Eye; Nestabilities Labels 1; Cuttlebug embossing folder (Victoria); sewing machine; glitter glue

For my colour inspiration, I combined these two challenges below: TSTR100 and cQc#123

This is my fourth post today, so please scroll down if you don't want to lose the rest :)
See you tomorrow!

Sketchbook Saturday Challenge #49

2012-02-11T06:54:00.003-05:00

Hullo, hullo!
I'm chiming in with a new sketch, quickly for my SFYTT post is scheduled in two hours, and I don't have the card yet! Yikes!

The sketch is simple and open to interpretation - feel free to use a strip of cardstock for the horizontal panel, you can also do some background stamping, or use masking like me. Have fun with it :)

Supplies: cardstock: Canson (navy blue), American Crafts (green), white; stamps: Hero Arts (Wild Flowers), Penny Black (Happiness); ink: Memento (Bamboo Leaves, Pear Tart, Tuxedo Black); spray ink: October Afternoon (Sidewalks); sewing machine; buttons

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A few things to keep in mind if you decide to use my sketch:

- You're kindly asked to save the image onto your computer first, and if you make a card based on it, please link back to this post.

- If you upload your card to an online gallery, please use the code SSC49.
- Please share the link to your creation via the Inlinkz widget, so that I can come and check it out. I would love to see what you did with it!
- The colours/elements mean nothing towards the card. All styles, colours and supplies, as well as slight alterations of the sketch are welcome.
- A new sketch and sample is posted every Saturday, but you're welcome to play any time! Just leave a link in the comments section after Inlinkz widget closes.

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Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge 84

2012-02-11T03:00:00.002-05:00

A new Waltzingmouse sketch has arrived! Mmmm... my favourite part of Saturday! Love me some good sketches, but even more, some gorgeous Waltzingmouse stamps. Any occasion is good to pull them out! Here's what we're treated to this week:

I was in a mood for shabby, and with a surprisingly high mojo, for this time of the ~~day~~ night... I really like this card, unlike most of my vintage creations as of late :)
I inked up Cameo To Go, along with Flourishes and Text-It for the background.

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Blushing Bride); paper: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 - Blush); stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Cameo To Go, Flourishes - Scallops and Dots, Text-It); ink: Versa Magic (Oasis Green), Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap), Brilliance (Pearlescent Orchid); Tag You're It Die-Namics; lace trim; ribbon: May Arts; flower: Wild Orchid Crafts; spray ink: October Afternoon (Sidewalks Hopscotch); sewing machine; Nestabilities Ovals; brads

For my colour inspiration, I used The Ribbon Reel challenge #21:

Hop on over to the Waltzingmouse Sketch blog, for more inspiration!
Thanks so much for visiting :)

Papertrey Ink 5th Anniversary, Day 6

2012-02-10T21:08:00.003-05:00

Today's challenge at the PTI blog is to use one of the provided sketches. I love them all, but I chose #2 to work with. The stitching at the top won me...

Please note that the felt that I used is not from PTI, but from MFT. I'm yet to get some PTI felt, I'm sure it's fabby...

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (New Leaf, Melon Berry); stamps: Papertrey Ink (All About You Additions, Think Big Favorites #6); ink: Versafine (Onyx Black), Memento (Lulu Lavender); buttons

Thanks for visiting, and see you later for a couple more posts! (Sketchbook Saturday and Waltzingmouse & SFYTT sketches)

PTI 5th Anniversary, Day 5 & a tutorial

2012-02-09T22:37:00.004-05:00

As promised, I'm back with a card for today's challenge at the PTI blog.
Today's contest is as follows:
"Pick one of the team members Pinterest inspiration photos from above or select your own piece of Pinterest eye candy to use as a jump-start for your very own creation."

I'm not a Pinterest junkie as big as some (lol), but I do appreciate it tremendously, especially when it comes to storing my favourite ideas for cards and other crafts.
What I find curious about it, is that once I find something that interests me, I can always click "more from the website" or "more from the user", which often leads me to some fabulous, unexpected finds.
As I ventured to find a fresh piece of inspiration this morning, I went from link to link to ultimately find the pins from the Snow & Graham stationery website. Talk about some gorgeous stuff!!
I found many things there that I'd readily pick up and transfer into a card.
I chose this cute desktop calendar for my inspiration.

I love the layout, with the elegant title at the top and another small piece of text to the right. Also, the pop of colour on the flowers and the subtle horizontal dividing line, created by the crease in the holder.
I decided to change the colours and add a couple of pretties (as I would *wink*)...

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Certainly Celery), PTI (Rustic White), Canson (grey); paper: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 - Rosy); stamps: Papertrey Ink (Big & Bold Wishes, Year Of Flowers: Morning Glories, Fancy Flourishes); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); black pen; buttons

Now, for the tutorial!
I had several requests recently, to explain how I take/edit my photos.
Firstly, let me tell you that I DON'T have the light tent. I take most of my photos in in a dispersed daylight in my bedroom, the card resting on the chest of drawers. I turn the ceiling light on as well, to brighten up the room a little more. Here's the unedited photo of my fancy photo lab *wink* (ceiling light not yet turned on here):

I have a good camera (Canon Power Shot S3 IS), but frankly, I wouldn't know how to use its advanced options ;)
The only thing I always do, is take the photo in a macro mode, and make sure that I have a steady hand. I don't use a tripod, instead I rest my hands on the end of that chest.

I use Corel Photo Paint X4 to edit my photos, and I love it! After having it trimmed, this is what my unedited photo looks like... dark and unappealing, right?

First thing I do is launch the Image Adjustment Lab, and increase Brightness, Contrast and Highlights. The value of Brightness/Contrast differs from photo to photo, I usually apply anything between 20-30 to both. The Highlights slider always goes up to the highest value, as it lightens up further the lightest parts of an image, this usually being the background.

Then I sharpen the image. Do not underestimate the power of that handy-dandy tool. Sharpening (within reason) changes heaps.

If I'm happy with the results, I save the image and upload it to Photobucket. Honestly, I don't know what I would do without it these days. I have a Pro account and use it to store all my photos, family and craft-related.
Apart from the obvious advantages, it also has a very useful built-in photo editor, that I use to further spice up my pictures.
To access it, you need to hover the cursor over your photo and click Edit.
In the Edit window, I add some more Contrast & Brightness if needed (Basic --> Contrast)...

... and some Saturation as well, which makes the colours more vivid (Basic --> Adjust)

I don't recommend Photobucket's sharpener, it makes the photos overstressed.
Sometimes, when the sun shines directly into the bedroom windows, it tends to add a yellowish haze to my photos. In this case, I slide the Hue value a bit, towards the cool side of the spectrum, either in Corel or Photobucket. Be careful with it, though. You don't want to make things green instead ;)

So, there you go. That's how I do it! It looks like a long process, but it takes only a couple of minutes, especially when one works on automation like I do these days, lol
I hope it helped you in some way. As you can see, you don't have to make the light tent your next purchase, if you want to take your photos to the next level :)

Thanks for bearing with me, and sorry for the long post!

Hero Arts contest projects

2012-02-09T19:09:00.003-05:00

Hi again,
I know there's been a large number of posts on my blog in the last day or two, my apologies if you feel like I'm spamming your Google Reader :)
I can't quite say I'll be slowing down, as I'm planning to play with today's PTI anniversary challenge as well, so there should be another post coming in a couple of hours.
I keep losing followers - if it's due to me being "over-active", then however unfortunate it is, this is just how I roll and I respect those for whom it may be too much.

BUT, back to the business :) Part one of the February Hero Arts contest is coming to an end very soon, so I thought I'd make a project or two, as I'm less likely to have the time to contribute to the second part. I made a tag and a card, with two of the beautiful sketches they provided.

First up, the tag. Very simple thing, I coloured the flowers with Copics and added some sponging around them.

Supplies: cardstock: white, SU! (Not Quite Navy); paper: My Mind's Eye; stamps: Hero Arts (Three Flowers, Frame a Message); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Versa Color (Sky Blue, Cyan); Dog Tag/Tag You're It/Dainty Dots Border dies: MFT Die-Namics; Copics; button: Basic Grey; cotton string; checked ribbon

I also used the juicy colours from PDCC118:

Next, the card. I used the "embossing with dies" technique, to frame the image.
For the Cuttlebug, the sandwich is as follows: A Plate, die (face up), paper, tan mat (I use two); two B Plates.

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Baja Breeze), Canson (grey), white; vellum: Grant; stamps: Hero Arts (Dancing With Flowers, Happy Hello); ink: VersaMark; white embossing powder; Nestabilities Labels 18; buttons

The colour inspiration for my card, comes from ric#5. I used vellum to imitate the knee-long socks and transparent blouse, that the girl is wearing.

Thanks for looking, see you later!

Some Odd Girl February digi release - Day 4

2012-02-09T09:00:00.001-05:00

We're rounding up the February Some Odd Girl digi release today! Did you enjoy the designs so far? I would be surprised if you didn't... regardless of your personal taste, it's hard not to be smitten by these cutie pies :)
Today's fairy is called Spunky Sprite, and I love her dreamy look and cool hair style!

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Aqua Mist), SU! (Regal Rose), white, paper: Echo Park Paper (Country Drive); digital image: Some Odd Girl (Spunky Sprite); Copics; stickers: October Afternoon; border punch: EK Success; baker's twine; white gel pen: Signo; flower; button; clouds dies: PTI; Cuttlebug embossing folder (Swiss Dots); sewing machine; staple

The sketch that I used this time, comes from CPS 5th Anniversary Day 6:

If you happen to create something with a SOG image, remember to share it on our Facebook page or Flickr Group, if you would like to take your chance at being featured on our blog.
Also, make sure you stop by to see the rest of the DT cards HERE!

Glitz Design with Focus

2012-02-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

This month's challenge on the Glitz blog, is this lovely colour combo:

Not only this one is on top of my list, with my favourite colours, but it also screams Beautiful Dreamer, the collection that I'm a huge fan of. I'm sure you have noticed, having seen my previous Glitz posts :)
So, here comes more pinky/sage'y/girly stuff! Hooray!

I used the Paper Layer for the base of this card, and added a strip of patterned paper, a Journaling Sticker, and a bloom cut from the Peek-A-Boo. I also stamped the head silhouette on the patterned paper, and embellished the girl's head with a little piece of transparency, cut from the Peek-A-Boo frame.

Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" papers: Stripe, Toile
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Journaling Cardstock Stickers
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Peek-A-Boo
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Clear Stamps
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Paper Layers

Other: cardstock: Canson (grey); baker's twine; button; ink: Memento (London Fog)

... and another one, where I focused more on patterned papers. I made the focal point with the pair of kids playing on a swing - the image that I die cut from a Whatnot.

Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" papers: Floral, Damask, Polka
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Whatnot
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Titles Cardstock Stickers
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Epoxy Words

Other: cardstock: SU! (Certainly Celery); ink: Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap); Nestabilities Lacey Circles; paper flowers; brad: SU!; seam binding; MFT Fancy Flourish Die-Namics; lace trim

Thanks for looking :)

CASE Study Challenge #77

2012-02-09T00:01:00.003-05:00

Hi sweets, ready for a new CASE Study challenge?
Karola Witczak is our Muse this month, and this is the card that I chose for us to be inspired with this time:

I love the mix of colours and patterns and the eclectic look, so that's what I was trying to achieve. I was also inspired by the layout, that I slightly modified to suit the Mojo Monday sketch :).

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Not Quite Navy); papers: My Mind's Eye, Kaisercraft, October Afternoon, DCWV; stamp: Verve; ink: Memento (Danube Blue); flower; button; sewing machine;ribbon: Kaisercraft

Here's the MOJO227 sketch, that I loosely followed:

Please visit my sweet and talented DT at their blogs, and check out what they created with this week's inspiration!

Karola Witczak (February Muse)
Amy Wanford
Christina MacLaren
Clare Buswell
Debby Hughes
Jean Martin
Julie Lacey (on a break)
Maureen Plut
Teneale Williams (taking a week off)
Teresa Kline

Then hop over to the CASE Study blog, where you'll find all the details, fabulous inspiration and InLinkz tool to link up your creation!

Papertrey Ink 5th Anniversary, Day 4

2012-02-08T22:25:00.003-05:00

I was able to squeeze in a card, for today's challenge within PTI anniversary celebrations schedule. The challenge is to "pick one of the team members favorite color combinations from Nichole's blog to use as inspiration for your very own creation."

I chose Heather Nichols' beautiful combo below - not only it holds some of my favourite colours, but I felt pleasantly challenged by this soft palette, quite unusual for my style.

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Aqua Mist, Spring Moss, Rustic Cream), Basic Grey (kraft); stamps: Papertrey Ink (A Little Argyle, Love Lives Here (with die), Delightful Doilies); ink: Fresh Ink (Tuscan Olive), Versa Magic (Sea Breeze), Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap); lace trim; border punch: EK Success; buttons; button twine: May Arts; Nestabilities Scalloped Circles; sewing machine

I played around with my stamps a little more creatively today - I used the pattern from A Little Argyle to create a corset-like fill between the two scalloped strips of cardstock. Not sure why I thought that it would go nicely with the theme, but there you go :)
I also stamped one of the roofs of the house alternately across the banner, to make a diamond pattern.

The inspiration for my layout, comes from FMS21. Love this sketch.

I've got a couple more posts scheduled for later today - CASE Study, SOG last day of digi release, and Glitz Design post. I might also fit in another 'freelance' post if I find more time for craft time later on :)
I noticed that I dropped quite a few of my followers recently, not sure if it's due to the large number of posts... I heard that such stories happen and I hope it's not the case!

Some Odd Girl February digi release - Day 3

2012-02-08T09:00:00.003-05:00

It's time for another day with Some Odd Girl's brand new digis! We already met Flower Fairy & Brella Fairy, and they're sharing a fine company today with the enchanting Flutist Fairy!

Supplies: cardstock: white, paper: My Mind's Eye (Fine & Dandy); digital image: Some Odd Girl (Flutist Fairy); Copics; stickers/chipboard: October Afternoon; border punch: EK Success; baker's twine; white gel pen: Signo;

...and traditionally, the sketch that I used for a starting point - CPS 5th Anniversary Day 5:

Remember that if you happen to create something with a SOG image, you can share it on our Facebook page or Flickr Group.
Every Friday, the best projects featuring SOG stamps, will be featured on our blog :)
Also, make sure you stop by to see the rest of the DT cards HERE, and stop by tomorrow, for the last installment!

Blow me away

2012-02-07T23:57:00.003-05:00

I hope you're not having enough of my SOG creations yet, as I'm interrupting the digi release schedule, with the cute panda card below... there are two more fairy images released this month, so please stop by later tonight as well as tomorrow, for more fun.
Today, I wanted to catch up with this week's great Deconstructed Sketch (DS37), and being tremendously inspired by their new Guestie and my idol, Amy Sheffer, I whipped up this:

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Basic Black), white; papers: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 Breeze); stamps: Some Odd Girl (Pinwheel Panda), Stampendous (Silhouette Sprig); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Distress Ink (Pumice Stone), Fresh Ink (Pear); Copics; Shapeabilities Fancy Tags; chipboard: Prima; border punch: EK Success; sewing machine

Here's the sketch:

SOG images ARE the cutest. Period. =)

Some Odd Girl February digi release - Day 2

2012-02-07T09:00:00.002-05:00

We launched the February digi release for Some Odd Girl yesterday, with Flower Fairy, and it's time we shared a new beauty on the block... meet Brella Fairy!

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Soft Suede), paper: Cosmo Cricket; digital image: Some Odd Girl (Brella Fairy); Copics; label sticker/sentiment stamp: Glitz Design; corner rounder: EK Success; twill ribbon; Sprinkles (gems): AnnaBelle Stamps; white gel pen: Signo; Glossy Accents

The sketch that I was inspired with, comes from CPS 5th Anniversary Day 1:

If you pick any of the new images up from the shop and have some crafty fun, don't forget to share! You can leave us a link on our Facebook page or share on our Flickr Group.
Every Friday, the best projects featuring SOG stamps, will be featured on our blog!
Also, make sure you stop by to see the rest of the DT cards HERE.

Some Odd Girl February digi release - Day 1

2012-02-06T09:00:00.003-05:00

Welcome to my first official release post for Some Odd Girl! We are entering the fairy tale this month, with four whimsical digi images that hit the store today!
For four consecutive days, the Design Team will be giving you plentiful of eye candy, made with each of the fairies, so make sure you'll stop by the SOG Blog each day, to scoop up some prime inspiration :)

I can't wait to share with you the excitement, so let's get cracking with the first adorable design... meet Flower Fairy!

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Certainly Celery), paper: Basic Grey (Marjolaine), Glitz Design (Dance In Sunshine); digital image: Some Odd Girl (Flower Fairy); Copics; transparency/epoxy word: Glitz Design (Dance In Sunshine); Nestabilities Labels 18; baker's twine; button; sewing machine; white gel pen: Signo

The sketch that I was inspired with, comes from CPS 5th Anniversary Day 4:

BBB19 - The Beauty of Love

2012-02-06T01:00:00.003-05:00

Hello and happy Monday! I'm excited to share with you the next fabulous Bring Back Beautiful challenge. This month we're asking you to think LOVE. Valentine's day is just around the corner, and I'm sure there's still a card or two that need to be made!

Link up your Bringing Back Beautiful Challenge creation here! If you upload to SCS, please use the keyword BBB19. You have until February 29th to enter.
As we unveil our challenge for next month, we’ll share our True Beauties – those card makers who wowed us with this challenge! Winners will be featured on the Flourishes Blog and will receive a True Beauty blog button to display proudly on their blog.

I used the brand new Love Sweet Love set, on my card:

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Regal Rose), white; paper: Kaisercraft, Echo Park Paper; stamps: Flourishes (Love Sweet Love); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Versa Color (Cinnamon); Copics; Nestabilities Labels 10/Shapeabilities Twisted Metal Tags & Accents; MFT Dog Tag Die-Namics; sewing machine; grosgrain polka dot & checked ribbon; buttons; lace trim

I took the inspiration from the very first challenge at I Spy Sketches (ISSC01), and from the fabby colours of Kathy's Lily Pond Palette Challenge at Lily Pad Cards:

Make sure you'll visit the rest of the Team's blogs, to see what beauties they cooked up for the challenge!

Beate Johns
Betty Wright
Cindy Coutts
Heather Jensen
Julie Koerber
Kathy Jones
Laura Fredrickson
Yvonne Hagane

Thanks for stopping by, happy inking! =)

Papertrey Ink 5th Anniversary, Day 1

2012-02-05T21:23:00.003-05:00

Hello, folks! There will be a few posts from me today, including a new Bring Back Beautiful challenge post and the first day of Some Odd Girl digi release, so stay tuned!

For now, I'd like to show you the card that I put together for the first day of PTI's 5th Anniversary celebrations. WTG gals! I heard there's a lot in store during the next two weeks, and I'm hoping to find the time for at least some of it.
Today's challenge for the PTI fans and cheerleaders is to create a project inspired by one of the DT girls' favourite project, as displayed on Nichole's blog.
I chose this project from Lisa, for its beautiful layout. You can find it HERE on her blog.

I switched the colours and modified the elements to suit what I had on hand, and came up with this:

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Raspberry Fizz, Hibiscus Burst, Sweet Blush, Aqua Mist, Rustic Cream); stamps: PTI (In Bloom, Mat Stack 1 - with die, Blooming Button Bits); ink: Memento (Rose Red, Tuxedo Black), Fresh Ink (Tuscan Olive), PTI (Fresh Snow), Distress Ink (Pumice Stone); ribbon: PTI (Fine Linen); PTI Impression Plate; button: Basic Grey; button twine: May Arts

I also used some of my favourite PTI supplies on this card. Firstly, the cardstock. Ahhhh. I can't say enough of good things about its quality. I'm a HUGE fan of their rustic range, and I would honestly use Rustic White & Cream on every single card, if I could. Unfortunately, living in Australia, ordering from PTI is close to impossible due to the pricey postage, hence I'm hoarding my cardstock like nothing else :)
Then, there's the Fresh Snow ink. It's the only one that actually WORKS for me. No embossing, no fuss, just ink and stamp. Simple? Yes. I'm sure you know how hard it is to find a white ink that leaves a clear impression on a dark coloured cardstock.
Lastly, there's also the Impression Plate that I love, and I would gladly own every single design they have. With time, maybe :)
(I gather I need no brag about their stamps... we all use them & love them. Goodness knows I adore my PTI stuff :) )

So anyway, I thought I'd enter this card into the Paper Piecing challenge at The Ribbon Carousel (RCC38), since I did with that bloom what I love doing so much lately... :)

See you soon enough! Mwah,

Jay Gees Nook Challenge #16

2012-02-04T20:00:00.000-05:00

Hi friends, it's time for another post in my busy weekend's schedule, and this turn it's a new challenge at Jay Gee's Nook!

I guarantee that the inspiration board (again put together masterfully by Joy) will put a HUGE smile on your face... just take a look at these juicy colours!

Instant LOVE... right?? Let's go straight to my interpretation - I'm using the stamps from the Pretty Peonies set from Jane's Doodles, except from the small leafy branch, that comes from an old mini set from WRMK that is quite possibly discontinued.
I did some masking to create the "bouquet".

Supplies: cardstock: white; paper: Echo Park Paper (Country Drive); stamps: Jane's Doodles (Pretty Peonies), We Are Memory Keepers; ink: Memento (Cantaloupe, Tangelo, Lady Bug, Potter's Clay, Pear Tart, Bamboo Leaves); corner rounders: EK Success; button; letter stickers: My Little Shoebox

Hop on over to the JG's Nook blog, to see the rest of the Design Team's creations!

February SFYTT

2012-02-04T11:00:00.004-05:00

Roll up, roll up! A brand new, FUN-tastic Sketch For You To Try is in town! Are you ready???

Visit this post for all the details on how to play along, and to link up your entry. You have until the end of the month to join us! Here's how things go...

And here's the sketch!!

This month we're having Your Next Stamp, for our fabulous sponsor:

I was playing with the cling stamp set from YNS, Basket Animals. There are several cute critters that you can mix and match, I've got tons of ideas about how to use these! For today I though that I'd give this adorable little bunny a balloon ride...

Supplies: cardstock: Stampin' Up! (Certainly Celery), orange, white; paper: My Mind's Eye (Fine & Dandy); stamps: Your Next Stamp (Basket Animals); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics; grosgrain ribbon: PTI (Simply Chartreuse); buttons; edge distresser; scallop scissors; Shapeabilities Fleur De Lis Accents (?); Nestabilities Circles

Check out what the fabulous SFYTT Sisters whipped up with the provided sketch!!

Amber Hight
Amy Sheffer
Carole Burrage
Jen Tapler
Jodi Collins
Kerry Johnson
Megan Lock
Susan Liles
Becky Carafa
and of course, Jen Del Muro :)

Thanks so much for stopping by!!

Sketchbook Saturday Challenge #48

2012-02-04T06:29:00.003-05:00

Hi again! Have you seen my Waltzingmouse sketch card yet? You can find it below this post.
I'm chiming in with a new sketch, and because it's a pretty busy weekend, I went for a simple design. It's a nice, graphic layout, I hope you'll like it :)

I made my sample with a bunch of Hero Arts stamps - four woodblock, one cling, and one clear, to be exact. LOL
It's good top make a good ole' all-stamped card, from time to time.

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (River Rock), cream; stamps: Hero Arts (Dots & Flowers, Designer Woodgrain, Clouds, Elegant Brocade, Circle Doily, Truly Appreciated); ink: Fresh Ink (Provincial Gray), VersaFine (Onyx Black), Memento (Tuxedo Black), Distress Ink (Pumice Stone); Copics; Nestabilities Squares; button

Ok, so here's the fun part. I'm entering this card into CFC38, with the theme of a movie inspiration. And, as strange as it may seem, my card was inspired by Silence of the Lambs. A brilliant classic.

An orange moth, anyone?? That was instantly on my mind - the striking effect of placing a brightly coloured object, in the middle of a monochromatic picture. In this case, a critter - that I swapped for a flutterby, of course.

(On the side note, you must know that dark, difficult films are my 'specialty'. I watch barely anything else :) )

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A few things to keep in mind if you decide to use my sketch:

- You're kindly asked to save the image onto your computer first, and if you make a card based on it, please link back to this post.

- If you upload your card to an online gallery, please use the code SSC48.
- Please share the link to your creation via the Inlinkz widget, so that I can come and check it out. I would love to see what you did with it!
- The colours/elements mean nothing towards the card. All styles, colours and supplies, as well as slight alterations of the sketch are welcome.
- A new sketch and sample is posted every Saturday, but you're welcome to play any time! Just leave a link in the comments section after Inlinkz widget closes.

---------------------------------------------------

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge 83

2012-02-04T03:00:00.002-05:00

As always, with Saturday comes another Waltzingmouse sketch, and this week we're serving you a Valentine inspiration, to kick you in the lovey-dovey mood :)

Of course, you don't have to make a love-inspired project, feel free to use any other shape instead of the heart! I went with the flow and used the Sweethearts set, on this tag...

Supplies: cardstock: Canson (grey); paper: Crate Paper (Paper Heart); stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Sweethearts); ink: Memento (Lady Bug, Tuxedo Black); Spellbinders Nestabilities Circles/Scalloped Circles; lace trim; twill ribbon; pearls: Kaisercraft; Liquid Pearls (Petal Pink); Distress Stickles (Worn Lipstick); button; button twine

I'm entering this project into Tuesday Trigger: Fancy Schmancy :)

There's plenty more inspiration from the Design Team, waiting for you at the Waltzingmouse Sketch blog, so please stop by to see them. We hope that you'll pull out your Waltzingmouse stamps and play along as well :)
Thanks for visiting!

La La Land Crafts Monday Inspiration (on Friday)

2012-02-03T05:00:00.002-05:00

The Monday's Inspiration post at La La Land Crafts, has been shifted to this Friday due to the CHA Release, hence today we're all posting altogether! This week's theme is Kraft + Faux Stitching.
It's also my last post for the La La Land peeps, and I'd like to thank everyone, especially Irina & Rosie, for the fabulous time!
I used the just released Marci with Bunny, she's such a sweetheart. The new rubber stamps will start shipping on the 10th, but you can preorder them now!

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Cherry Cobbler), white; paper/chipboard/rhinestone/felt & cardstock die cuts: My Mind's Eye (Kraft Funday); stamps: La La Land Crafts (Marci with Bunny); Copics; ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); black pen; corner rounder: EK Success; staples

For my layout I used Card Patterns sketch 150 (which I turned on the side, of course... lol), and the colours come from cQc#122:

You will find more inspiration from the DT, at the La La Land Crafts blog.
Thanks for stopping by!

Vintage

2012-02-02T21:20:00.003-05:00

Hi sweets, I'm popping in with two cards. My mojo is low at the moment, it might be due to the due date of the Spellbinders last round's submissions drawing dangerously near... I haven't had the chance to get my project done yet, I couldn't find enough time to do it in one sitting, without being interrupted by a certain someone, lol
I'm really looking forward to having her in the day care soon, it will give me some spare time each week to concentrate on the deadlines, and the opportunity to get some "me time".

Anyhoo, I was just playing with a couple of challenges. I did something different to my usual style, on the first card. It actually turned quite cute.

Supplies: cardstock: recycled kraft, Canson (purple), white; paper: Echo Park Paper (Country Drive); typewriter (Paper Layers)/Epoxy Words/flourish frame stamp: Glitz Design; hand stamp: October Afternoon; ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black, Sweet Plum); scallop scissors; sewing machine; flowers; button twine

I used the sketch from FMS20 (yep, you guessed it... I turned it on the side ;) ), and the colours of PDCC117:

Next one, is more of a classic shabby kind, although I'm not sure whether I like it. I keep telling myself that I need to get more trinkets and embellies that would suit the vintage style, I can never find anything suitable in my stash.

Supplies: cardstock: Canson (cream); papers: Pink Paislee; stamps: Glitz Design (heart, postage stamp, sentiment); ticket: My Mind's Eye; ink: Memento (Rich Cocoa, Lady Bug), Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap); chipboard heart: Collections; edge distresser; trinket pin: Maya Road; glitter glue: Ice Stickles; ribbon: May Arts; lace trim; flower; pearls: Kaisercraft; staples

This time I combines the SC370 sketch, with the inspiration from TSTR99. (TSTR gals - I know that I shouldn't post any other cards with my submission, but no worries, I'm not playing to win :) )

I'll see you a bit later, with my last GD post for La La Land Crafts. Thanks for peeking in! xx

CASE Study Challenge #76

2012-02-02T00:01:00.002-05:00

Hi, friends! A new month has begun, and with it we're introducing a new Muse at CASE Study!
The talented artist who's going to inspire us in February, is especially close to my heart, as she's a fellow Pole, and such a sweetheart - Karola Witczak!
Karola has a magnificent style, very detailed, feminine and utterly charming. I strongly believe that no matter what your style is, there's always something in her creations that steals your heart. Like in this week's inspiration, for instance...

I'm a sucker for blue & green together, such a fresh and cheerful combination. I knew that I'm going to run with it, and it was no brainer for me to reach for the MME Lost & Found 2 paper pad as well... I sincerely hope that you don't sigh in resignation yet, every time you see me using one of these!
Of course, I was drawn to the banner as well, I'm positively nuts about them these days, which I'm sure you noticed as well...
For the personal touch, I gave the card an extra 'oomph', by adding some purple accents. It's not my go-to colour but I think it works great here.

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Certainly Celery, Rich Razzleberry (?)), white; papers: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 - Breeze); stamp: October Afternoon (Thrift Shop - sentiment only); ink: Versafine (Onyx Black); flower: Maya Road; chipboard bird: Collections; a piece of denim; buttons; sewing machine; Japanese masking tape; border punch: EK Success; pinking scissors; chipboard circle element: My Mind's Eye (12 Days of Christmas); pearl: AnnaBelle Stamps

For my layout, I used this lovely sketch #48 from Cardabilities:

Please visit my sweet and talented DT at their blogs, and check out what they whipped up with this week's inspiration!

Karola Witczak (February Muse)
Amy Wanford
Christina MacLaren
Clare Buswell
Debby Hughes
Jean Martin
Julie Lacey (on a break)
Maureen Plut
Teneale Williams
Teresa Kline

Then hop over to the CASE Study blog, where you'll find all the details, fabulous inspiration and InLinkz tool to link up your creation!
Smooches,

I'm an ODDie!

2012-02-01T00:00:00.001-05:00

Hi, peeps!
Today I've got great news to share. I'm now officially an Odd Girl!

You must have well noticed by now, that I never say no to the SOG images and stamps... they're so cute it hurts. Come on, admit it :)
I will be happily sharing with you perks of the new releases, fun challenges hosted on the blog and LOTS of colouring, in the few months to come.
Today I prepared the card, with one of the images from the Valentine digi release, Valentine's Tia.

Cardstock: SU! (Soft Suede, Daffodil Delight), white, kraft; paper: Pebbles; stamps: Some Odd Girl (Valentine's Tia - digi), MFT; ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), PTI: Fresh Show; Copics; Nestabilities Circles; border punch: EK Success; sewing machine; rhinestones/ribbon: Kaisercraft

Many of you asked me in the past, for a video tutorial on my colouring, please know that I'm not ignoring you. I don't really feel like I would do a good job with the video (I think that my accent might be a trouble for some & I'm technically challenged by taking videos), but I'll try and accommodate you with a picture tut. IF I find time enough, that is...
We'll be putting Zuzia in a day care in a couple of weeks, so perhaps then I will have more time to undertake it. So please, bear with me while I'm sorting things out :)

Please stop by the Some Odd Girl blog today, and say hello to the rest of the Oddies. All of the girls are sweet and very talented, and they will be thrilled to read your comments.
Cheers!

For Cath (sans CHA) with Love Blog Hop

2012-01-31T00:00:00.001-05:00

Hi, friends! Today a bunch of friends got together, for the biggest Moxie Fabber out there, Cath Edvalson!

Cath is not able to attend CHA this Winter, due to the pain in her shoulder, and she was super bummed about this... we understand, of course, and we will surely miss her super fun reports from the CHA floor, as she used to hold them on the Moxie Fab World blog in the past!

We are holding a Blog Hop today, filled with love and get well wishes, hoping that we will cheer her up a little.
The stamps come from The Craft's Meow's Fruity For You set, I thought the sentiment is very fitting... chin up Cath, you're loved muchly!!

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Blushing Bride), white; papers: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 - Blush); stamps: The Craft's Meow (Fruity For You); ink: Versafine (Onyx Black), Memento (Rose Red), Distress Ink (Pumice Stone); French Pastry Doily die: Cheery Lynn; felt: MFT; buttons

On my card, I used the sketch from the CPS 5th Anniversary Day 2, and the colours from CR84FN47:

There's no blog hop order, but you can find the complete list of participants, on Virginia's blog and Lorena's blog.
So, let's all show Cath some love and hop along! If you'd like to add your link to the list on one of the blogs above, feel free to do so! Thanks everyone for participating, and thank you for visiting :)

La La Land Crafts CHA release

2012-01-29T08:10:00.002-05:00

Yup, me again! I hope you're not having enough of my posts over this weekend... while so many of my friends are now having fun at CHA, I need a creative escape to get my mind off it :)

Besides, there's lots of exciting things going on right now (I can barely wait for the manufacturers to release their goodies!), and one of them is the fantastic CHA Release for La La Land Crafts!
There's 10 new Marci & Luka stamps, along with several accessories & they're all available for preorder now, from the LLLC Store, and will start shipping on February 10th. Click HERE to see them!

I was itching to use my favourite from the release, Marci with Tulip stamp. Doesn't Marci look cute with wavy hair??

Supplies: cardstock: kraft, American Crafts (brown); papers: My Mind's Eye (Stella & Rose - Mabel); stamps: La La Land Crafts (Marci with Tulip), PTI (sentiment only); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics; chipboard pieces: My Mind'[s Eye (Kraft Funday); string

I combined the SSSC151 layout, with the colours of CTD176. Love both of these :)

The La La Land Design Team girls, prepared many lovely samples today, featuring all of the new release stamps, and you can check them out HERE on the LLLC Blog.
Happy shopping afterwards! =)

CAS-ify me: Inspired by turquoise

2012-01-28T18:14:00.003-05:00

Hello, friends and happy Sunday!
As if there wasn't too many updates on my bloggie since yesterday (please check out my SFYTT, Waltzingmouse sketch and Sketchbook Sat posts below as well!), I'm popping in with a quickie that I whipped up last night.

Supplies: Canson (light & dark grey), PTI (Rustic Cream); stamps: WPlus9 (Flora & Fauna I), Waltzingmouse Stamps ( Free Spirit Sentiments); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Balck); Copics; border punch: EK Success

I haven't played with the Inspiration Challenge on SCS for month's but I was intrigued when I saw the name of the current one (IC321), Everything Turquoise. Hmmm... turquoise is good.
So, I wandered around the website and found this gorgeous pillow:

photo source

I liked the simple colour blocking and hence I didn't strive at any elaborate shading on my dogwoods. I only added a very subtle extra cover of colour in places, to add a little dimension.
I took the layout from CFC37.

You know how I like banners, but I thought it would clutter this design, so I made the sentiment stand alone. I hope you'll like it :)
See you later!

January SFYTT - A beary happy birthday

2012-01-28T11:00:00.000-05:00

As the end of the month is drawing near, the time to play with the current Sketch For You To Try is shrinking as well... have you done so yet?? We return this year with some great, new and returning sponsors, 12 more chances to became the Designer of the Month, and a fabulous prize for all of you who complete all of the sketches in 2012.

You can find more details in this post, as well as the Inlinkz list to link up your entry.

This month SFYTT is sponsored by The Cat's Pajamas, and I used their A Beary Good Year set, on my card.

Supplies: cardstock: Stampin' Up! (Old Olive); paper: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 - Rosy, Breeze); stamps: The Cat's Pajamas (A Beary Good Year); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Distress Ink (Pumice Stone); Copics; Nestabilities Ovals; twill ribbon; buttons; sewing machine

The colours are chosen to match cQc#121... well, roughly :)

Now it's your turn to play! Have fun :)

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge 82

2012-01-28T03:00:00.003-05:00

Hi folks, ready for another Waltzingmouse sketch??

It's another winner in my books, I love it!
My card is inspired by the Polish folk art - something that I dig a lot these days.
The intricate art of paper cutting, called Wycinanki, is a big part of our culture, and is nothing short of mesmerizing!

Photo source

I can only imagine the hours of work put into each one of these pieces...
The common elements of each image are stylized flowers and roosters or other birds. The design is also almost always symmetrical.

So here's what I did with the inspiration... I used five different stamp sets on the card.
The birds are from Asian Gardens, the lime flourishes/dotted circles from Very Vintage Labels No. 10, the "knitted" shapes from Nordic Winter, and the stars from Compliments of the Season. The sentiment comes from Rescue Remedies Additions.

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Real Red), PTI (Rustic Cream); paper: October Afternoon (Farm Fresh); stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Very Vintage Labels No. 10, Asian Gardens, Nordic Winter, Compliments of the Season, Rescue Remedies Additions); ink: Memento (Lady Bug, Cantaloupe, Pear Tart, Bamboo Leaves), Distress Ink (Pumice Stone); Spellbinders Shapeabilities Fancy Tags; paper doily; twill ribbon; corner rounder: EK Success; pearls: SEI

There's plenty of eye candy from the rest of the Team, waiting for you at the Waltzingmouse Sketch blog, so make sure you'll make your way there too!
Thanks for visiting!

Sketchbook Saturday Challenge #47

2012-01-28T02:40:00.002-05:00

Here's the new sketch for you, girls! I know I keep coming up with vertical sketches, I can't help it... remember that you can always turn it on the side, something that I do a lot with horizontal layouts :)
Also, feel free to substitute any element of the sketch with what suits your needs. I draw my sketches rich in detail, because it makes me happy. It certainly doesn't mean that I'm forcing you into schemes - let your imagination fly!

I picked up a few Waltzingmouse Stamps yesterday, and I can't seem to put them away...

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Blushing Bride); paper: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 - Sunshine), Webster's Pages; stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Sweethearts, Cameo Creations), AnnaBelle Stamps (BBD4); ink: Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap, Pumice Stone), Versa Magic (Malted Mauve); label die: PTI; Pink Paislee Artisan Elements; twill ribbon; metal buttons; lace: Kaisercraft; sewing machine; flowers

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I took my inspiration from the TSTR98 challenge - Sparkly & Bright. I'm also playing with The Ribbon Reel Challenge #20, which is about New Year's resolutions. I pictured on my card one of them - to spend more quality time with my husband. I adore him to bits and love more than I can say - I want to remind him of it as often as I can :)

A few things to keep in mind if you decide to use my sketch:

- You're kindly asked to save the image onto your computer first, and if you make a card based on it, please link back to this post.

- If you upload your card to an online gallery, please use the code SSC47.
- Please share the link to your creation via the Inlinkz widget, so that I can come and check it out. I would love to see what you did with it!
- The colours/elements mean nothing towards the card. All styles, colours and supplies, as well as slight alterations of the sketch are welcome.
- A new sketch and sample is posted every Saturday, but you're welcome to play any time! Just leave a link in the comments section after Inlinkz widget closes.

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Have fun with it! :)

Masculine times two

2012-01-27T09:49:00.004-05:00

Hi friends,
I've got a couple of cards to share, I thought a little inky session was due tonight :)
I haven't had the opportunity to tackle the last week's Verve sketch, while the next one has just launched as well, so I did them both.

Supplies: cardstock: Canson (teal), grey; papers: Crate Paper (Paper Heart); stamps: Some Odd Girl (Lovey Tobie); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics; edge distresser; sewing machine; buttons

Here's the VLVJan2012 Week 3 sketch, along with the combo from the Color Inspiration challenge over at the Some Odd Girl blog:

I'm also entering this card into Patterned Paper Challenge at Lily Pad Cards, and also the challenge at Copic Oz, which is to use any of the Copic markers presented in the post. I used R46 & R59 on the hearts garland.

I also made this CAS card, with some scrumptious Waltzingmouse Stamps, for the last Verve sketch in January (VLVJan2012 Week 4).

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Simply Chartreuse), white; stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Back in the Saddle); ink: Memento (Bahama Blue, Sweet Plum); buttons: Basic Grey

As you can see, I turned the sketch, to suit my idea. I also used the colour story from PDCC116. These are tough colours, and I decided that it would be best if I applied them to the masculine card...

I hope you'll join me tomorrow, for the new Sketchbook post, Waltzingmouse sketch, and later on also the last SFYTT post and sample for January :)
Thanks for stopping by!

January ACSP pubs

2012-01-27T06:08:00.004-05:00

The first issue of Australian Cardmaking, Stamping & Papercraft magazine in 2012, arrived in the shelves!

I've got a set of cards in it, that you can find on the page 14, here's the peek...
(oh, and one of these is on the cover as well, tee hee! I'm a cover girl again :) )

I have to give credit to Maile Belles, for inspiring me tremendously. It was for the first time that I saw many of these ideas, on her blog. You might have noticed, also in my recent PTI Blog Hop post, that paper piecing that PTI rose is a favourite thing for me to do :)

You will find the complete instructions and the list of materials to make these, in the mag.
There's also a very special feature there, on the pages 56-57 you will find a little interview with me :) I keep thinking that my answers are at best nerdy, but what's done is done! lol

A couple of my friends have cards in this issue as well (hi, Kathy!), it's chock full of inspiration! I hope you'll enjoy it :)

Glitz Design - Beautiful Dreamer (again)

2012-01-26T09:00:00.001-05:00

Hi friends, my new post at the Glitz blog is up!
I designed the two cards below, with my favourite collection as of yet, Beautiful Dreamer. Mint & pastel pink... mmmm, heaven! Dreamy enough for me to indulge in it shamelessly :)

I used the pretty paper to die cut the leaves as well, love the extra interest that it adds. The label is a sticker that I popped up on the dimensionals, and all I added to it is an epoxy word. With such an ornate design of the elements, the card basically made itself.

Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" papers: Damask, Houndstooth, Toile
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Journaling Cardstock Stickers
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Epoxy Words

Other: cardstock: grey; striped ribbon; flower; Leafy Branch die (Taylored Expressions); ink: Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap); edge distresser (Heidi Swapp)

Here I cut out the butterfly from a Whatnot, to make a focal point. Love this card :)

Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" papers: Houndstooth, Polka, Floral
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Journaling Cardstock Stickers
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Whatnot
Glitz Design "Vintage Blue" Clear Stamps

Other: cardstock: grey; ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); ribbon: Kaisercraft; flower; sewing machine; edge distresser (Heidi Swapp), rhinestone flourish: Zva Creative

See you next time!

CASE Study Challenge #75

2012-01-26T00:01:00.000-05:00

Unfortunately, it's our last week with Jen Rzasa, at CASE Study. It's been a very educational month for me, as I was really trying to push myself more into the simple style. This time I chose the ultimate CAS creation from Jen:

I was drawn to the floss, as soon as I saw it. Packs a punch, doesn't it? I decided that I take the baker's twine, and arrange it in a rainbow-like, gradient pattern:

Supplies: cardstock: Bazzill (kraft); stamps: Hero Arts (Vintage, Happy Girls); ink: Memento (Lady Bug, Tuxedo Black); Nestabilities Labels 1; baker's twine; corner rounder: EK Success

I played with the ric#4 challenge, with the last week's CASE Study entry... and while the challenge still open, I think this card fits in as well!

Please visit my sweet and talented DT at their blogs, and check out what they whipped up with this week's inspiration!

Jen Rzasa (January Muse)
Amy Wanford
Christina MacLaren
Clare Buswell
Debby Hughes
Jean Martin
Julie Lacey (on a break)
Maureen Plut
Teneale Williams
Teresa Kline

Then hop over to the CASE Study blog, where you'll find all the details, fabulous inspiration and InLinkz tool to link up your creation!
See you later,

January PTI Blog Hop

2012-01-25T10:00:00.002-05:00

I'm happy not to miss this month's PTI blog hop! It's a fun one, too.
The challenge is to share a favourite project from 2011, along with a new one that was inspired by that creation.
Hmmm. To pick a favourite is an impossible task - not because I like them all, quite the contrary - upon looking back I always think something like "umm, it's ok, but definitely doesn't make my heart skip". So I browsed through all my cards from last year and couldn't quite decide on anything.
Finally I was able to compromise my fussy self, and picked this one (which is by no means a favourite, just a card that I like more than the others)...

I blogged it back in November, you can see the post HERE.
I chose this one because of the clean design, striking big flower stamp (of which type I'm a sucker for), and the play of colours.

I chose another simple design, although a bit different to the original. For the bold flower, I picked Year Of Flowers: Roses. This time I paper pieced them, instead of colouring - something that I loooove doing with this particular stamp.
I reduced background stamping to the strip of dots from Polka Dot Basics, and played with bold colour combination - this time yellows & olive.

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Summer Sunrise, Lemon Tart, Harvest Gold), American Crafts (black), kraft, SU! (Old Olive); stamps: PTI (Year Of flowers: Roses, Polka Dot Basics); ink: Versafine (Onyx Black), Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap); border punch: EK Success

Thanks for checking it out!! :)

Masculine Valentine (another SOG card)

2012-01-24T19:39:00.004-05:00

Hi bloggies,
It's been a busy couple of days, as I've been creating a lot for the upcoming publications. Some of them I'll be trying my hand at for the first time and I can only hope that something gets picked... we'll live to see!
I was too tired last night to start on some card to share, but I knew I wanted to make one, with one of the SOGgies (Some Odd Girl digis) that I downloaded the other day. So in turn I only coloured the image, and quickly made a card for it this morning.

This handsome guy is called Kody With Flowers, and I think it's the first time I used a male image from them. He's super sweet :)
I used again the Soft Suede cardstock for my base, the colour that's quickly becoming my new black. I had only a limited amount of it in the past so I was hoarding it, but I got myself a fresh supply and now I can't put it away :) For the papers and embellies, I used two collections from MME, and I did a simple trick in order to be able to use the strip of kraft paper and retain the label. I cut the label along its border, up to about a half of the panel, and slid another strip of paper underneath, flipping the label above it.

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Soft Suede), white; papers: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 - Sunshine); stamps: Some Odd Girl (Kody With Flowers - digi), The Craft's Meow (All You Need Is Love - sentiment only); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Balck); Copics; felt banner/stars cardstock strip/chipboard button: My Mind's Eye (Kraft Funday); corner rounder: EK Success

I used this lovely sketch from PPA127, along with RCC37, which is to use non-traditional colours.

I'm hoping to whip up something for the upcoming PTI Blog Hop, and if I make it, then that's what my next post for you will be. Until then, thanks for looking!

A CAS Trigger

2012-01-23T08:44:00.003-05:00

Hi lovelies,
I'm popping in quickly, to share the card inspired by this week's Tuesday Trigger: Winter Blossoms.

Supplies: cardstock: Canson (slate), PTI (Rustic White); stamps: Impress (flower), PTI (Think Big Favorites #4); ink: Memento (Cantaloupe, London Fog), Versa Magic (Gingerbread); pearls: Kaisercraft; ScorBuddy; corner rounder: EK Success

Here's the Trigger! I was particularly drawn to that yellow flower, standing out from the rest.

See you later! :)

La La Land Crafts Monday Inspiration

2012-01-23T05:00:00.002-05:00

Hello friends! It's time for Monday's post for La La Land Crafts, and this week's theme is Love is in the Air!
I used one of my favourite stamps ever on my card, Sweetheart Marci. I cut her out discarding the lover part below the garland, and popped her in the negative die-cut as if she was looking out of the window.

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Basic Black), kraft, white; paper: Crate Paper; stamps: La La Land Crafts (Sweetheart Marci); Copics; ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Nestabilities Labels 1/Scalloped Squares/Squares; sewing machine; rub-on: Basic Grey; pearls: Kaisercraft

For my layout I used DS35, and the colours come from CTD175:

You will find more inspiration from the DT, at the La La Land Crafts blog.
Thanks for stopping by!

A SOGgie Valentine

2012-01-22T19:21:00.004-05:00

Morning, sweets! Well, at least to me and the rest of the Aussies... weekend's gone and I've got a busy week ahead... hmmm, I wonder if I can pull it all off?? :)

I want to show you the card from last evening. I saw the sketch challenge at the Ribbon Carousel this week (RCC36), that's being sponsored by Some Odd Girl, and I thought it's a perfect occasion to use one of my new SOGgies. The new images are just too cute for words! I chose Cupid Mae.

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Melon Berry); papers: Authentique (Gathering); image: Some Odd Girl (Cupid Mae - digi); Copics; sentiment die cut: Pink Paislee; MFT Notebook Edge Die-Namics; baker's twine; buttons

Below is the sketch that I used. I kept the card simple, I had a hard time doing something I liked with this layout... I also took the colour inspiration from OCC's Inspiration Challenge, with the scrumptious colours below. I know you probably grunt - dammit she used those papers again - but I thought of the Gathering pad as soon as I saw the photo :)

I'll see you again some time, friends! xo

Jay Gee's Nook - birthday tag

2012-01-21T20:00:00.002-05:00

Hi friends, it's time for another Jay Gee's Nook post!

I decided to steer off the cards (if only for a brief while), and I made a masculine birthday tag, with the Birthday Noteblock stamp from Purple Onion Designs. You can find it HERE in the Store! I white embossed it on a piece of patterned paper.

For the scalloped border, I had to use a couple of tricks, in order for it to look uniform. I don't have the Scalloped Rectangles so I die cut two Scalloped Squares instead and joined them together. The base was too wide still, so I matted the stamp with some extra brown cardstock, that I cut with pinking shears for some extra oomph. Ta da!

Supplies: cardstock: American Crafts (brown), white; paper/die-cuts/rhinestones: My Mind's Eye (Kraft Funday); stamps: Purple Onion Designs (Birthday Noteblock); ink: VersaMark; white embossing powder; Nestabilities Scalloped Squares; button twine; button; grosgrain ribbon; pinking scissors; MFT Fresh Cut Grass Die-Namics

I'm entering this tag into the Cutting & Trimming Challenge in the Moxie Fab World :)

Hop on over to the JG's Nook blog, to see the rest of the Design Team's creations!

Sketchbook Saturday Challenge #46

2012-01-21T05:01:00.003-05:00

Check out also my Waltzingmouse sketch post below as well!

Hi crafty friends, I'm back with a new sketch! I experimented with this one a bit, shuffled the elements across the card, and finally came up with this... how do you like it??

Because I made the card first and then drew the sketch on the base of it (as it rarely happens), it's is an exact version of my card, but always remember that no matter what shapes and elements you find in my sketch, treat them only as a guideline and interpret however you wish.

~~The label is a free digital file that one of the fellow crafters kindly shared on her blog some months ago. I can't find it any more, so if anyone knows exactly where it's coming from, please share!~~
The label is a free digital file from Dana Gustafson, and you can get it HERE on her blog. Thank you so much for your help, Anya!!

The rest of the stamps is from Hero Arts. Can you see the doily peeking out from under the label? :)

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (New Leaf), gray; paper: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 - Rosy); stamps: Hero Arts (Truly Appreciated, Antique Engravings, Circle Doily); ink: Memento (London Fog), Versafine (Onyx Black); label: digital image; corner rounder: EK Success; twill ribbon; button; baker's twine; pearls: Kaisercraft; sewing machine

---------------------------------------------------

A few things to keep in mind if you decide to use my sketch:

- You're kindly asked to save the image onto your computer first, and if you make a card based on it, please link back to this post.

- If you upload your card to an online gallery, please use the code SSC46.
- Please share the link to your creation via the Inlinkz widget, so that I can come and check it out. I would love to see what you did with it!
- The colours/elements mean nothing towards the card. All styles, colours and supplies, as well as slight alterations of the sketch are welcome.
- A new sketch and sample is posted every Saturday, but you're welcome to play any time! Just leave a link in the comments section after Inlinkz widget closes.

---------------------------------------------------

Have fun with it! :)

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge 81

2012-01-21T03:00:00.002-05:00

It's time for a new Waltzingmouse sketch, people!! Here's this week's sketch... I like it, um... A LOT!

I inked up Asian Gardens and Fancy Phrases, for my sample card.
I channeled my inner Anya (Anya Schoss is a Waltzingmouse Stamps DT gal and one talented stamper), and CASEd her idea for creating a "bouquet" of flowers around the circle panel.
I found the card that got me inspired here on vi.sualize.us, and they don't provide direct links to the source. Such a shame. Therefore I can't lead you directly to Anya's post... sorry 'bout that.

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Cherry Cobbler, Blushing Bride), white; paper: Echo Park Paper (Style Essentials); stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Fancy Phrases, Asian Gardens); ink: Versafine (Onyx Black), Memento (Angel Pink, Rose Red, Lady Bug); Spellbinders Nestabilities Circles; pearls: Flourish With A Bling; pink marker; sewing machine

I'm entering this into the new challenge on the block - Virginia's View in Lily Pad Cards. The given inspiration photo is just gorgeous and I couldn't resist playing along :)

There's plenty of eye candy from the rest of the Team, waiting for you at the Waltzingmouse Sketch blog, so make sure you'll make your way there too!
Thanks for visiting!

Sketchy continued

2012-01-19T21:56:00.003-05:00

As I mentioned in the post from last night, it was looking awfully like a stamping night, and it was - short but sweet. I made one more card that I really like, and I even squeezed one this morning. Wanna see??

So, that's the last night's one. Verve sketch. Gorgeous papers & stamps. And a whole lot of fun :)
I used the Christmas paper pad here, from MME. I love versatile papers that don't necessarily have to be used for one type of project - this pad is a perfect example.

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Ocean Tides), American Crafts (brawn); papers: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found Christmas); stamps: Verve (Just For You, New Mercies); ink: Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap), Versa Magic (Spanish Olive), Memento (Rich Cocoa, Bamboo Leaves); Shapeabilities Fancy Tags Three/Nestabilities Circles; border punch: Martha Stewart; edge distresser; lace: Kaisercraft; button twine; button

Here's the Verve sketch that I based this card on (VLVJan2011 Week 2), and the colour story from PDCC115 that I also used:

The morning card is for MOJO224.
I cut out the little banner from the collage stamp in The Craft's Meow Sent With Love set, and popped in over the heart sticker from My Little Shoebox and the stamped label from Lovely Labels 18 (also from TCM). This label from Spellbinders must be my most favourite one ever...

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Blushing Bride); papers: Crate Paper (Paper Heart Collection); stamps: The Craft's Meow (Sent With Love, Lovely Labels 18); heart sticker: My Little Shoebox; banner/glazed brads: My Mind's Eye (Kraft Funday); ink: Memento (Lady Bug), Versa Magic (Pink Grapefruit); Nestabilities Labels 18; felt/border die: My Favorite Things

Thank you for paying me a visit today, it's always great to see you :) If you haven't been around for a while, make sure you scroll down to see what else I've been up to!

Sketchy

2012-01-19T06:28:00.003-05:00

Hi again, this is my third post for today, so please scroll down past this post if you don't want to miss the rest of the stuff! I've got a CASE Study post and card, and The Craft's Meow sketch card as well...

Right now I would like to share the two cards, that I've been gradually working on since morning. The classic in-and-out job of a mum :)
I've been having heaps of fun with these, and now that we put Chuplet to bed, I'm considering staying in my craft room for an inky session. This might mean that I might be back with something else tonight or tomorrow morning :)

I couldn't help but reach for the Gathering papers from Authentique again, for the card below. Judging by the frequency of using these recently, I'm heading straight into the trap of "I can't look at them any more" situation. I'll make sure to give them a proper workout before any if it happens :)

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Melon Berry), kraft; papers: Authentique (Gathering); stamps: WPlus9, Jane's Doodles; ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Nestabilities Circles/Lacey Circles; border punch: Fiskars; button twine; mulberry flowers

I based it one this fantastic sketch from Card Patterns, that I (of course) made vertical...

This one is for the closing challenge at the Wee Memories (WMC83), with one of the sponsors being none else but There She Goes. I had to play along, not only because the sketch is great, but also to honour my fav stamp company and the great challenges that I once used to be in the DT for.

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Tempting Turquoise), cream; papers: Cosmo Cricket; stamps: There She Goes (Freeze The Moment); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics; Nestabilities Labels 1; border punch: EK Success; sewing machine; buttons; butterfly punch: Martha Stewart; MFT Fresh Cut Grass Die-Namics; twill ribbon

I'm also entering this card into the Summer Challenge at Copic Oz.
See you later, peeps!

CASE Study Challenge #74

2012-01-19T00:01:00.003-05:00

We're rolling in with the new challenge at CASE Study! As you know, our wonderful Muse for January is Jen Rzasa, and here's her inspiration card for this week:

I love the pop of colour on this wonderfully bright and funky card. I wanted to do the colour blocking using patterned papers as well, but when I was rummaging through my stamps in search for a suitable sentiment, the Dot Spot set from PTI fell in my hands and I decided to give it some love instead. I wanted to have the same vertical flow of elements through the card, I only gave mine a bit more relaxed look.

Supplies: cardstock: white; stamps: Papertrey Ink (Dot Spot, Mega Mixed Messages); ink: Memento (Rich Cocoa, Cantaloupe, Potter's Clay, Rose Red, Bahama Blue); felt: craft supply; button: Basic Grey; sewing machine

I combined two more challenges on this number, them being CFC35 - Highs & Lows, and ric#4 with the fabby fashion inspiration below:

TCM January-February sketch challenge

2012-01-18T21:08:00.002-05:00

Later than usual, but nevertheless in a cheerful mood, we're chiming in with a new sketch challenge at The Craft's Meow Store Blog!
Here's the beautiful sketch, designed by Michelle Bertuzzi:

Isn't it just lovely??
I used two beautiful stamp sets from TCM, on my sample card below: All You Need Is Love and Lovely Labels 18.

Supplies: cardstock: white; papers: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 - Blush); stamps: The Craft's Meow (All You Need Is Love, Lovely Labels 18); ink: Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap, Pumice Stone), Memento (Angel Pink); Nestabilities Lables 18; edge distresser; flower/trinket pin: Maya Road; leaf: SEI; button twine; lace trim

We are revising the rules this month. You do NOT have to use TCM stamps to enter the challenge. However, if you are the winner and you have used TCM stamps on your entry, you will not only receive a TCM stamp set of choice as your prize, but also a coupon for 15% off one additional stamp set of choice which can be used one time within 30 days!!! Good news, huh??

So pull out your TCM stamps and create something based on the sketch above, for your chance to win the prize!
You have until February 14th at 9:00 pm Pacific to link your card, and you can find the Inlinkz list, as well as more inspiration from the TCM girls HERE.
Thanks for stopping by! ^^

January Waltzingmouse Stamps Blog Party

2012-01-17T07:41:00.004-05:00

I've got to confess - I've never taken part in the WMS Blog Waltz before. As much as I love my Waltzingmouse stamps, it just never came to it for one reason or another.
Now the event changed the name, and is called a WMS Blog Party! This time, I'm also on board... oh yay!

This month's theme is "Sweet Things". I used the sentiment from Fancy Phrases, and the garland border stamp from Eat Cake, on my sweet shabby Valentine card.
I paired them with the crown from Pink Paislee Mistables, ahat I sponged with ink instead of using a spray mist.

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (So Saffron), kraft, cream; paper: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 - Blush & Sunshine); stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Eat Cake, Fancy Phrases); ink: Memento (Rich Cocoa), Distress Ink (Pumice Stone); Shapeabilities Twisted Metal Tags & Accents; MFT Dizzy Doily die; sewing machine; lace trim; Pink Paislee Mistables; pearls: Kaisercraft

I also used Cardabilities sketch #47 and CR84FN46 for my layout and colour inspiration:

There's still a couple of hours before the linking option closes, so play along if you can! Thanks for visiting :)

...And yet more paper piecing

2012-01-16T07:54:00.004-05:00

Uh-oh. Once In started I cannot stop. What's wrong with me?? lol
I've got one more paper-pieced card for you, this time it's made for the TSG139 challenge - Back To Nature. It's my first challenge at There She Goes, that I'm not participating in as a Trendsetter *sob*
Yes, I'm having withdrawals. Like, huge ones. And yes, I still know it was necessary to step down... I'm really enjoying more free time on my hands! We can't have it all, can we...?? Still I miss you, guys :)

Supplies: cardstock: American Crafts (black), white; papers: My Mind's Eye (Lime Twist, Alphabet Soup); stamps: There She Goes (Zoo-pendous); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics; corner rounder: EK Success; border punch: Martha Stewart; MFT Fresh Cut Grass die; buttons: Basic Grey; sewing machine

I also used this fantastic layout from SC367. I'm glad I made it in time.

See ya' later! xo

La La Land Crafts Monday Inspiration

2012-01-16T05:00:00.003-05:00

Hello folks! It's time for a Monday's post for La La Land Crafts, and this week's theme is Favorite Things! How fun :)
My favourite paper collection at the moment, would be the Gathering from Authentique, so I used these gorgeous papers. I also love this sketch - it's vertical, clean and just perfect. I could use it all the time.
As for the embellishments, here are all of my most loved ones - ribbon and buttons. Some scrumptious die cuts and machine stitching add to the bliss...
Most of all, I made sure to pull out my fav recent La La Land stamp, Cupid Marci. I paper pieced her dress and added some shading to it with Copics.

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Early Espresso), American Crafts (teal), white, cream; paper: Authentique (Gathering); stamps: La La Land Crafts (Cupid Marci); Copics; ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap); Nestabilities Labels Two; cloud die: PTI; ribbon: Sullivans; sewing machine; button

This lovely sketch comes from FMS17, but as you can see, I had to make it vertical ;)

You can check the rest of the DT's fabulous creations, at the La La Land Crafts blog.
Thanks for popping in!

More paper piecing

2012-01-15T10:32:00.003-05:00

I must be having a paper piecing kind of day... it's one of the coolest techniques out there and I'm always happy when the mood for it strikes me. If I wasn't so lazy, I'd try it on most of my cards...
Today, I felt just like it.

This cute little doggie stamp, arrived at my door just recently, as a part of my prize package from DRS Designs. I couldn't for the life of me, suppress the urge of ordering it. Surely you know what I mean!

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Baja Breeze), brown, cream; paper: Echo Park Paper (Life Is Good); stamps: DRS Designs, Flourishes; ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black, Rich Cocoa); Copics; Nestabilities Circles/Labels Two/Shapeabilities Fancy Tags Three; border punch: EK Success; felt: MFT; sewing machine; buttons; suede trim

I wanted to give the (fresh out of the oven) SSSC150 sketch a try, as soon as I saw it. And I did :)

Another cool, new sketch on the block is CPS251 and after altering it true to Chupa style (lol), here's what I came up with...
(sketch graphic below my card)

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Soft Suede), cream; paper: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 - Rosy); stamps: Some Odd Girl (Grow), MFT; ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black, Potter's Clay), Distress Ink (Tea Dye); Copics; MFT Notebook Edge Die-Namics; die-cut embellishments/rhinestone/glazed brad: My Mind's Eye (Kraft Funday); sewing machine; butterfly cut out of DCWV Mariposa paper; staples

This gorgeous ODDie is my first "physical" stamp from Some Odd Girl, a Nouveau Girl stamp called Grow. I paper pieced her dress and added some shading with the marker. I'm entering this card into SOG's Bling It Up challenge as well.

I'm signing off for the day, but I'll have a La La Land card for you tomorrow, and perhaps something else if time allows. Have a great day! xo

Jay Gee's Nook Challenge #15

2012-01-14T20:00:00.003-05:00

Hi friends! Make sure you also scroll down through my previous posts, I 'produced' quite a few yesterday! :)
It's time for a monthly challenge at Jay Gee's Nook, a bit later than usually, as we moved it due to the holidays.

Here's the lovely photo board that Joy put together for an inspiration...

...and here's my inspired card! If you expected another Gorjuss card from me, you we're right :) This cute girl is called Alice. There's many more Gorjuss stamps in the JG's Nook store! I love them all.

Supplies: cardstock: Stampin' Up! (Basic Black), white; paper: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found Christmas); banner/baker's twine/sentiment flag/burgundy paper/star border stamp: My Mind's Eye (Kraft Funday); stamps: Gorjuss (Alice); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics

For my layout, I used the FTL173 sketch. I stepped it up quite a bit, so it's far from being CAS any more. I hope you can still see it, though :)

I'm also entering this card into OCC's Paper Piecing with a Twist challenge (twist being no ribbon and no more than one embellishment).
Hop on over to the JG's Nook blog, to see the rest of the Design Team's creations!

January SFYTT - A beary special day

2012-01-14T11:00:00.002-05:00

Have you guys played with the January Sketch For You To Try yet?? We return this year with some great, new and returning sponsors, 12 more chances to became the Designer of the Month, and a fabulous prize for all of you who complete all of the sketches in 2012.

You can find more details in this post, as well as the Inlinkz list to link up your entry. And here's the fun January sketch...

This month SFYTT is sponsored by The Cat's Pajamas!!

I used the stamps from their A Beary Good Year set. LOVE this cute bear! I entirely paper-pieced him, and only coloured the present that he's holding, with the Copics.

Supplies: cardstock: Stampin' Up! (Early Espresso); paper: Glitz Design (Dance In Sunshine); stamps: The Cat's Pajamas (A Beary Good Year); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black, Rich Cocoa); Nestabilities Circles/Scalloped Circles; ribbon: PTI; rhinestones: Kaisercraft; Copics; staples; sewing machine

Several more SFYTT Sisters have samples on their blogs today as well, make sure you'll check them out!

Amber Hight
Amy Sheffer
Megan Lock
Becky Carafa

Now it's your turn to play! Have fun :)

Sketchbook Saturday Challenge #45

2012-01-14T04:08:00.004-05:00

Me again! For the second time tonight (please check out also my Waltzingmouse sketch post below), and certainly not the last one. Papers, inks and stamps have been busy in my hands today and there's still lots to make. Super creative day, and a super fun one - just how I like it :)

Here's my sketch for you this week:

The full credit for the inspiration behind this sketch, as well as my sample card, goes to my hero Laurie Schmidlin, in particular this jaw-dropping beauty of hers. I loved it so much that I wanted a Chupa-infused copy :)

Supplies: paper: My Mind's Eye (Kraft Funday, Lost & Found 2 - Rosy); stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Fancy Phrases); ink: Memento (Rich Cocoa), Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap), Versa Magic (Sahara Sand); Nestabilities Circles/Lacey Circles/Shapeabilities Fancy Tags/Twisted Metal Tags & Accents; border punch: Martha Stewart; twill ribbon; chipboard heart: Lil' Davis Designs; pearl: Kaisercraft; flower: Wild Orchid Crafts; glitter glue: Ice Stickles

---------------------------------------------------

A few things to keep in mind if you decide to use my sketch:

- You're kindly asked to save the image onto your computer first, and if you make a card based on it, please link back to this post.

- If you upload your card to an online gallery, please use the code SSC45.
- Please share the link to your creation via the Inlinkz widget, so that I can come and check it out. I would love to see what you did with it!
- The colours/elements mean nothing towards the card. All styles, colours and supplies, as well as slight alterations of the sketch are welcome.
- A new sketch and sample is posted every Saturday, but you're welcome to play any time! Just leave a link in the comments section after Inlinkz widget closes.

---------------------------------------------------

Have fun with it! :)

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge 80

2012-01-14T03:00:00.002-05:00

It's time for a new Waltzingmouse sketch! I had lots of fun with this one... isn't it fabulous??

I finally inked up this beautiful dress stamp from You're Lovely. What a great one to paper piece! Especially when one has a perfect bit of paper - I used a sheet from MME Lost & Found Two Breeze pad, and I must say that it's one of my best attempts. Doesn't that damask look like an embroidery? :)

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Baja Breeze), kraft, cream; paper: My Mind's Eye (Lost & Found 2 Breeze, Authentique (Gathering); stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (You're Lovely); ink: Versafine (Onyx Black), Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap); Spellbinders Shapeabilities Fancy Tags Three/Nestabilities Circles; MFT Dizzy Doily die; pears: Flourish With A Bling; flower: Prima; sewing machine

For the colour/theme inspiration, I settled down for the TSTR96 challenge:

There's plenty more inspiration, waiting for you at the Waltzingmouse Sketch blog, so make sure you'll make your way there too!
See you again soon, thanks for visiting!

December ACSP pubs

2012-01-12T19:15:00.002-05:00

Hi friends, I'm popping in quickly, with the long overdue post.
I'd like to share the cards that I've got in the December issue of Australian Cardmaking, Stamping & Papercraft. Very soon I should be able to share my contribution to the upcoming, January issue, once I get my hands on it. It's a very special one to me, but more of it later :)

On the pages 40-42, you can find the set of four cards, made with the Glitz Design product (Hoopla collection) and Layers Of Color stamps.

I blogged this set a couple of months ago, you can view the post HERE for the details.

Also, there are two of my cards to be found on the page 48, featuring the Make It Crafty stamps, within the Stamper's Challenge feature.

Here are the photos of these, taken in my studio:

Thanks for looking! ^^

Glitz Design with Focus

2012-01-12T09:00:00.002-05:00

Hello peeps! It's time to get Glitzy again :)
Some of you might have noticed, that this year we are introducing a brand new feature on the Glitz blog, that being a "FOCUS", an inspiration given to all of us to be the starting point of our next creation.
If you design something inspired with the Focus, you are eligible to enter our monthly challenge. The Design Team is showing you their unique takes on the inspiration, throughout the month, to help your creative juices going.

Here's the beautiful photo:

Bear in mind, that your project doesn't have to be of wintry theme. There's plenty to be inspired with here - the colours, textures, even the layout!
Hence the layout is what I was really taken with in the first place - see my card below? :)
Then came the colours (the papers from Dance In Sunshine immediately came to mind), and I even let the dimension from the photo guide me.

Glitz Design "Dance In Sunshine" papers: Damask, Polka
Glitz Design "Dance In Sunshine" Clear Stamps
Glitz Design "Dance In Sunshine" Peek-A-Boo
Glitz Design "Dance In Sunshine" Epoxy Words
Glitz Design "Dance In Sunshine" Glitzers

Other: cardstock: embossed white card, yellow; pearls: AnnaBelle Stamps; ink: Versafine (Onyx Black)

For the second card, I interpreted the layout a little differently, and gave it a bolder look. There's still yellow there (this time I was playing with the Vintage Blue collection), but I replaced the cool green with navy blue. I let the banner play the role of the upper trim, and the lace/tulle combo, replace the garland under the mirror.

Glitz Design "Vintage Blue" papers: Motif, Rose
Glitz Design "Vintage Blue" Titles Cardstock Stickers
Glitz Design "Vintage Blue" Journaling Cardstock Stickers
Glitz Design "Vintage Blue" Trim
Glitz Design "Vintage Blue" Epoxy Words
Glitz Design "Vintage Blue" Clear Stamps
Glitz Design "Vintage Blue" Giant Rhinestones

Other: cardstock: white, black; string; QuicKutz embossing folder (Diamonds & Dots)

Now it's your turn, to show us how you got inspired! See you next time, for more glitzy goodness :)

CASE Study Challenge #73

2012-01-12T00:01:00.004-05:00

Oh CASE Study, how I missed you!! Two weeks in a row I didn't participate, and it was the first time I ever missed a challenge at all. I was super bummed, especially that the Muses, as well as their inspiration cards are always my absolute favourites! Heyyy, I'm choosing them myself after all, LOL
I'm happily back this week, finally being able to take a plunge into the delightful crafty world of Jen Rzasa, our January Muse. I find the card below so mesmerizing, with the luscious damask, peeking out of the negative die-cut butterflies.

I knew that I wanted to do some negative die cutting too, upon choosing the card above. I didn't have a suitable butterfly die, that would be big enough and solid, so instead I went for the window design and I'm very glad I did :)

Supplies: cardstock: white; paper: Authentique (Gathering); stamps: Papertrey Ink (Love Lives Here - with die); ink: Memento (Rich Cocoa); Spellbinders Nestabilities Squares/Circles; baker's twine

I die cut the PTI heart 'tag' first, and matted it with a wee bigger circle , cut with the Nesties, to help it stand out against the busy background. I really like this masculine Valentine card with a non-traditional twist.

I was inspired by the colours of the RCC35 challenge, and I'm also entering this card into the Die Cutting Challenge in the Moxie Fab World, as well as the Valentine challenge in A Passion For Papertrey.

Please visit my sweet and talented DT at their blogs, and check out what they whipped up with this week's inspiration! Did you see that we've got a new Teamie?? Christina joined us last week, I'm so thrilled!

Jen Rzasa (January Muse)
Amy Wanford
Christina MacLaren
Clare Buswell
Debby Hughes
Jean Martin
Julie Lacey (on a break)
Maureen Plut
Teneale Williams
Teresa Kline

Hop over to the CASE Study blog, where you'll find all the details, fabulous inspiration and InLinkz tool to link up your creation!
See you later, peeps!

Where flowers bloom

2012-01-11T21:11:00.003-05:00

I had a while to spare this afternoon, and I joyfully cut into my new, purrrty Authentique Gathering papers, the collection that I'm now seriously hooked on. Love aqua and sand beige, paired with rich browns and soft orange. You will see more of it in a couple of hours, on my CASE Study card.
I also cut out some Dogwood blossoms, from Crate Paper's Nantucket. Another fav line and colours... it feels SO good to be in my craft studio again!! :)

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Soft Suede); papers: Authentique (Gathering), Craft Paper (Nantucket); stamps: Jane's Doodles; ink: Memento (Rich Cocoa); MFT Die-Namics Bracket Die; sewing machine; edge distresser; buttons; metal flower: SEI; metal brad; flower die: EZCut

I utilized the VLVJan2012 Week 1 sketch (hooray for the return of Verve sketches!), and the colours of CTD174. My buttons are more So Saffron though, I didn't have any in bright enough yellow handy.

Back in a little while, with the CASE Study post, hope you'll join me again :) Thanks for visiting!

My beautiful girl

2012-01-10T07:28:00.003-05:00

You may have expected a note about my Chuplet, after reading the title of the post, but it really relates to the card that I have just finished and I'm eager to show you.
I should really get back on track and start working on assignments, but I couldn't pull myself together just yet. Procrastinators unite! :)
Instead I decided to have a wee inky session tonight, with some of the long-neglected challenges.

I combined a few for this card, including the Die Cutting Challenge in the Moxie Fab World. I'm sure that my use of dies is far from being creative here, but I really like when they take the center stage and show their full beauty, like this fancy label.

Supplies: cardstock: Canson (grey), American Crafts (black), white; stamps: Papertrey Ink (A Little Argyle), Glitz Design (Little Dreamer), Waltzingmouse Stamps (You're Lovely); ink: Versafine (Onyx Black), Memento (London Fog), Fresh Ink (Provincial Gray); Nestabilities Fancy Tags Three; MFT Stacking Stars die; border punch: Fiskars; pearl: SEI

The inspiration for the layout, comes from FTL172. I admit that it's a very loose interpretation of the sketch :)
The card was also inspired by ric#3, with the photo below. Again, I didn't stick too closely to it; I mainly followed the colours, introduced a little chic into the design by using this lovely silhouette stamp, and replaced the striped pattern by argyle.

Thank you for visiting!

Sketchbook Saturday Challenge #44

2012-01-09T08:56:00.005-05:00

Hi there! I'm officially back!! Home sweet home, they say, and it couldn't be any sweeter now, after even the most indulgent of vacations :)
I was especially eager to get inky, of course, but more of it in a moment.
Seeing as a couple of things changed recently, I wanted to give you an update.

First of all, you might have noticed that the TSG badge disappeared from my sidebar. This means that I stepped down from There She Goes Design Team, with a heavy heart but a certainty that it had to be done. I picked up quite a few assignments in the last year; some came and went but the majority stayed, and I assumed that it's just too much for me to physically pull off.
I decided that I need to cut off on something and my choice fell on one of the oldest DT spots. It's been an extremely pleasurable ride, and I'm having withdrawals already...

The other reason why I need to scrape out some extra time, is because I'm hoping that I can make it into the Spellbinders 2012 Design Team. Hope is, of course, all I've got at this stage, although I'm happy to share that today the Round Two winners have been announced and my name is among them. I'm getting mighty nervous now! ;)

That being said, let me finally move to the new sketch for you! Very late but made with some extra love, since my eager fingers were itching to play :)
I wanted something light and in tune with my style, so I drew one of my all-time favourite sketches. I hope you'll like it too! It's heavily layered, but feel free to reduce it to the basics if that's what rocks your boat.

I haven't touched ink for half a month, which in my world is a BIG thing... I hope it doesn't show too much that my mojo grew lazy!

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Berry Sorbet), white; paper: Echo Park Paper (Victoria Gardens); stamps: Flourishes (Angelic Love); ink: Memento (Onyx Black), Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap); Copics; Nestabilities Circles/Scalloped Circles/Twisted Metal Tags & Accents/Fancy Tags; wrinkled ribbon; satin ribbon; lace: October Afternoon; rhinestone strip: Glitz Design; button: Basic Grey; edge distresser; Pearls: AnnaBelle Stamps

I combined my sketch, with the inspiration from The Ribbon Reel (Challenge #19 - Pink Polka Dots), and the New Year challenge at Flourishes (FLLCJANRW2).

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A few things to keep in mind if you decide to use my sketch:
- You're kindly asked to save the image onto your computer first, and if you make a card based on it, please link back to this post.
- If you upload your card to an online gallery, please use the code SSC44.
- Please share the link to your creation via the Inlinkz widget, so that I can come and check it out. I would love to see what you did with it!
- The colours/elements mean nothing towards the card. All styles, colours and supplies, as well as slight alterations of the sketch are welcome.
- A new sketch and sample is posted every Saturday, but you're welcome to play any time! Just leave a link in the comments section after Inlinkz widget closes.

---------------------------------------------------

La La Land Crafts Monday Inspiration

2012-01-09T05:00:00.003-05:00

Hello again! :)
It's time for a Monday's post for La La Land Crafts, and this week's challenge is to Make a Scene!
I used the Heart Balloon Luka on my card, the brand new stamp released on January 5th.

Supplies: cardstock: recycled kraft, American Crafts (teal), white; paper: My Mind's Eye; stamps: La La Land Crafts (Heart Balloon Luka); Copics; ink: Versa Magic (Aquatic Splash); Nestabilities Circles; clouds dies: PTI; glitter glue; letter stickers: Carolee's Creations/American Crafts

You can check the rest of the DT's fabulous creations, at the La La Land Crafts blog.
Pop in also to the store, to see the fabulous new Release HERE!

Jay Gee's Nook - I support you

2012-01-07T20:00:00.001-05:00

Hi friends, it's time for another Jay Gee's Nook post!

I decided to pull out the new Pure Innocence stamp - Have Hope.

Supplies: cardstock: Stampin' Up! (Rich Razzleberry), white; paper: Crate Paper; stamps: My Favorite Things (Have Hope); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics; grosgrain ribbon; button; rhinestones: Kaisercraft; glitter glue; MFT Fresh Cut Grass Die-Namics

Hop on over to the JG's Nook blog, to see the rest of the Design Team's creations!

January SFYTT - Home is...

2012-01-07T11:00:00.004-05:00

Hi again! I'm popping in this time, with a new Sketch For You To Try! Are you ready for another year of FUN sketches??? I know I am :)
We are also having a few changes (for good, I assure you!). Starting this year, the SFYTT Sisters will be giving you three posts each month! This means three different cards made with every sketch... talk about some serious inspiration! :)
We will be posting again on the second (like myself) or third Saturday, and again within the last five days of the month. Make sure you'll check them all, if you're stumped for ideas! :)

Visit this post for all the details on how to play along, and to link up your entry. You have until the end of the month to join us!

And here's the sketch...

Of course, there wouldn't be so much fun, if not for our fabulous sponsors... this month SFYTT is sponsored by The Cat's Pajamas!!!

Unfortunately, I didn't get my package in time, so I wasn't able to create with sponsor's stamps. Fingers crossed for the next week!
Instead I pulled out my fabby PTI stamps...

Supplies: cardstock: Stampin' Up! (Blushing Bride), PTI (Rustic White); paper: Echo Park Paper, My Mind's Eye; stamps: Papertrey Ink (Love Lives Here, A Little Argyle); ink: Memento (London Fog, Lulu Lavender); grosgrain ribbon: SU! (Baja Breeze); button; button twine; edge distresser; Dizzy Doily dies: MFT Die-Namics

Check out what the fabulous SFYTT Sisters whipped up with the provided sketch!!

Amber Hight
Amy Sheffer
Carole Burrage
Jen Tapler
Jodi Collins
Kerry Johnson
Megan Lock
Susan Liles
Becky Carafa
and of course, Jen Del Muro :)

As always, thanks so much for visiting my bloggie today :)

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge 79

2012-01-07T03:00:00.000-05:00

After the short break, we're back for a new year full of Waltzingmouse sketches! Yippee!!
We're kicking things off, with a slightly new look but the same quality inspiration... here's this week's sketch!

I combined a couple of sets, on my card. The label comes from Very Vintage Labels No. 18, this gorgeous sentiment is from Big Day - Additions, and the sweet image of cake and the garland - from Eat Cake.

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Fine Linen), white; paper: Echo Park Paper; stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Very Vintage Labels No. 18, Big Day - Additions, Eat Cake); ink: Versafine (Onyx Black), Memento (Angel Pink, Rose Red); Sprinkles: AnnaBelle Stamps; Liquid Pearls (Pewter)

There's plenty more inspiration, waiting for you at the Waltzingmouse Sketch blog, so make sure you'll make your way there too!
See you again soon, thanks for visiting!

La La Land Crafts Monday Inspiration

2012-01-02T05:00:00.001-05:00

Hello again! :)
It's time for Monday's post for La La Land Crafts, and this week's theme is Pink, Black & White.
I used the Cupid Luka on my card, the brand new stamp that will be released on January 5th.

Supplies: cardstock: black, white; papers: Echo Park Paper; stamps: La La Land Crafts (Cupid Luka), The Craft's Meow; ink: Versafine (Onyx Black); Copics; Dizzy Doily Die: MFT Die-Namics; border punch: EK Success; Shapeabilities Floral Doily Motifs; pearls: AnnaBelle Stamps; ribbon: SU!; sewing machine

You can check the rest of the DT's fabulous creations, at the La La Land Crafts blog.
See you later!

BBB18 - The Beauty of Bling

2012-01-02T01:00:00.001-05:00

It's the first Monday of the month, and it means it's time for a new Bring Back Beautiful challenge! This time we're asking you to bling it up with rhinestones or pearls on your card or creation!

Link up your Bringing Back Beautiful Challenge creation here! If you upload to SCS, please use the keyword BBB18. You have until January 31st to enter.
As we unveil our challenge for next month, we’ll share our True Beauties – those card makers who wowed us with this challenge! Winners will be featured on the Flourishes Blog and will receive a True Beauty blog button to display proudly on their blog.

I designed my card, with the beautiful, new Pears stamp set:

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Certainly Celery), white, black; paper: Kaisercraft; stamps: Flourishes (Pears); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics; Nestabilities Labels 20; Sprinkles: AnnaBelle Stamps; sewing machine; V-striped ribbon; button; button twine

Make sure you'll visit the rest of the Team's blogs, to see what beauties they cooked up for the challenge!

Beate Johns
Betty Wright
Cindy Coutts
Heather Jensen
Julie Koerber
Kathy Jones
Laura Fredrickson
Yvonne Hagane

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy New Year!!!

2012-01-02T00:31:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year 2012, my dear blogging friends, followers and guests!!

I really wanted to have a "2011 card favourites" post this year, here on my good ole' bloggie... the first attempt in retrospection turned into fiasco, as soon as I tried to view the fourty-something posts of January, in order to pick a favourite... haha, perhaps next year I will be lucky enough ;)

I still would like to take this opportunity, to sum up what happened to me on the card making field, this year and beyond, and how much in result it changed my life. I'm going to get a little personal, perhaps; and lengthy, so feel free to skip it as you wish :)

Back in Poland it was a general assumption that hobbies should not take a significant part in anyone's life, and that time and money are not worth wasting over something that doesn't bring anything significant in return.
The idea, of course, didn't allow for the sheer feeling of fulfillment that we experience when we're allowed to let our imagination soar and our talents grow.
I always found this appoach wrong, even though I understood that in the troubled time and place that I found myself in, fighting for the basics was indeed taking up majority of one's time... as well as it was killing creativity at the roots.

It was only when I arrived to Australia, when I learnt that it's not only perfectly normal to pursue one's dreams, but I also got to know the pleasurable feeling of taking the passion one step further at a time, with confidence and joy, and seeing how it enriches my life.

In the first year and a half since I first made an "adult" card, I was scouting the region and learning, learning a lot. It's an neverending and very humbling process. Only some time in the last year, I started to feel truly confident that there's nothing wrong in sharing my passion with all of you, and that the growing interest in my blog, the new DT positions that I was being offered, may indeed mean that I do have something valuable to share... and I'm not only talking about the cards.
It's the love for creating, the love for each other, that I perceive so unique in our online community, and that we all equally share on our blogs and forums. We're giving each other encouragement and strength in pursuing what we think is important to us, because let's face it - in the modern world there's increasingly fewer time to "stop and smell the roses".
It's important to do so, and now I have even more passion in what I'm doing, then I had as a "newbie".

In the last year, I enjoyed seeing my first published work, "met" some of the loveliest women through blogging, faced the challenges of being the part of many Design Teams, and had much, much fun. I want to keep growing as a paper crafter, because it brings such a pleasure to do something for myself and see it evolve, take me to places I've never been before.

I don't know where the new year takes me, but I know that I'm going to savour every part of the journey, just as I always did. It will be my honour to see that you continue to encourage me, by visiting this place. Without you, none of it would exist. I owe you a big smooch :)
Take it away, 2012!

Jay Gee's Nook - You are loved

2011-12-31T20:00:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year, everyone!!! (or New Year's Eve, to my friends from Northern Hemisphere... you're probably in the middle of celebrations now! :) )
It's time for my first post in 2012, and I make it a Jay Gee's Nook one!

I had a great time playing with the Pretty Peonies set, from Jane's Doodles:

Supplies: cardstock: Stampin' Up! (Certainly Celery, Rich Razzleberry), recycled kraft; paper: My Mind's Eye; stamps: Jane's Doodles (Pretty Peonies); ink: Versafine (Onyx Black);green Copic; Shapeabilities Fleur De Lis Accents; Nestabilities Labels 18; twill ribbon

Hop on over to the JG's Nook blog, to see the rest of the Design Team's creations!

Into the New Year with Glitz Design

2011-12-29T09:00:00.002-05:00

With Holidays gone, we're now looking forward to the New Year's celebrations, and what better way to celebrate the fact, with some fun Glitz Design cards! I can't wait to send these to my pals...

I combined the papers, some stickers and other gorgeous elements from two different collections, with a little bit of stamping, and whipped up these two :)
Now, the first card below... I LOVE how it turned out. I embossed the modern cityscape on the banner, creating a little night scene. I added some fireworks too, that I embellished with rhinestones. To this I added the chic Victorian lady, looking like she's ready for a good, old-fashioned party uptown... hee hee!
(I cut her out of a Whatnot)

Glitz Design "Dance In Sunshine" papers: Stripe, Raindrops, Damask
Glitz Design "Dance In Sunshine" Whatnot
Glitz Design "Dance In Sunshine" Glitzers
Glitz Design "Dance In Sunshine" Epoxy Words

Other: cardstock: white; cityscape/sentiment stamp: The Craft's Meow; ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Versa Magic (Turquoise Gem), VersaMark; white embossing powder; File Tab die: My Favorite Things Die-Namics; rhinestones: Kaisercraft/Scrapbooking Bitz; sewing machine; button; baker's twine

For the next card, I pulled out the trusty Hoopla collection. It's made with birthday celebrations in mind, and I thought it would be wonderful for a New Year too. I made the cityscape peek out of the corner here as well, but the main role belongs to the fabulous, layered label sticker, paired with the sentiment.

Glitz Design "Hoopla" papers: Cake, Polka, Frames
Glitz Design "Hoopla" Journaling Cardstock Stickers

Other: cardstock: grey, white; cityscape/sentiment stamp: The Craft's Meow; ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); string; sewing machine

I hope your New Year's celebrations will be fantabulous :) See you in 2013, with more Glitzy goodness!

La La Land Crafts Monday Inspiration

2011-12-26T05:00:00.003-05:00

Hello again! :)
It's time for a Monday's post for La La Land Crafts, and this week's theme is Flower Power.
I used the Heart Balloon Marci on my card, the brand new stamp that will be released on January 5th.

Supplies: cardstock: red & green scraps, white; papers: Kaisercraft, American Crafts; stamps: La La Land Crafts (Heart Balloon Marci), MFT (sentiment only); ink: Versafine (Onyx Black); Copics; Nestabilities Circles/Labels 19; Liquid Pearls (Pewter); grosgrain ribbon; flowers

I used DS#32 for my layout:

You can check the rest of the DT's fabulous creations, at the La La Land Crafts blog.
Pop in also to the store, to see the fabulous new Release HERE!

Warm Christmas Wishes

2011-12-25T20:56:00.003-05:00

Happy belated Christmas wishes, my dear blogging friends!

Thank you for making this year so very special for me. Your friendship, however long distance, and despite the fact that I haven't met most of you in person, means the world to me.
I may not always have the time to pay a visit to your blog and leave you an equal amount of love that you're giving me, but please know that you're always in my heart.
Your kind comments and encouragement throughout the year, helped shape me as a crafter, and I wouldn't try half as hard as I am to polish my skills, if I didn't know that there's a beautiful reward waiting for me at the end.
I hope your kindness and love that you're giving to the crafting community out there, pays back constantly, and I hope that during the Holidays you're all filled with joy, love and surrounded by those that mean everything to you.

Have a very Merry Christmas!!

Here's a couple of stills from our Christmas day yesterday.... it was HOT!!'

{Chuplet preparing for a swim, with an ominous figure of mummy above her... ;) }

{unpacking presents with daddy}

{Chuplet after a mouthful of beetroot :) }

Holiday hugs & kisses,

Sketchbook Saturday Challenge #43

2011-12-25T20:47:00.003-05:00

Happy Christmas, my dear friends! I hope you're having a fine time with the family, celebrating your time together.
I've been quite silent lately, and until the second week of January, I'll be popping in only scarcely, as we're away for a vacation. I'm working hard on my assignments for the time away so don't worry, I won't leave you for two weeks without posts :)

I took the time off for the Holidays, but I'm bringing you a new sketch today, that will run until Sunday the 8th. We won't be back until late night that day, but I'll make sure to do the round commenting on your beautiful entries, the day after or so. Here it is!

I needed an anniversary card for my parents-in-law, and thought that it would be a good moment to try my new numbers die from QuicKutz. Also, I've been hoarding this flower from Pixie Petals on Etsy for over a year now. I decided to use it for this special occasion, and let the rest of the card evolve around it.
(the brad in the center is from Stampin' Up!)

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Lemon Tart), SU! (Baja Breeze), Canson (grey), white; paper: American Crafts; stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Asian Gardens), Sweet n' Sassy (June Rose); ink: Versafine (Onyx Black), Memento (Cantaloupe); border punch: EK Success; Dizzy Doily die: MFT Die-Namics; Nestabilities Scalloped Circles; Liquid Pearls (Pewter); flower from Pixie Petals on Etsy; QuicKutz No.73 Number Set die; Taylored Expressions Leafy Branch die; lace trim; brad: SU!; Sprinkles: AnnaBelle Stamps

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A few things to keep in mind if you decide to use my sketch:
- You're kindly asked to save the image onto your computer first, and if you make a card based on it, please link back to this post.
- If you upload your card to an online gallery, please use the code SSC43.
- Please share the link to your creation via the Inlinkz widget, so that I can come and check it out. I would love to see what you did with it!
- The colours/elements mean nothing towards the card. All styles, colours and supplies, as well as slight alterations of the sketch are welcome.
- A new sketch and sample is posted every Saturday, but you're welcome to play any time! Just leave a link in the comments section after Inlinkz widget closes.

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TSG (Again!) - Love you bunches!

2011-12-22T07:10:00.002-05:00

It's time again for the "There She Goes (Again!)" week on the TSG Blog, where we feature some popular older sets and give you some fresh inspiration to get your wheels spinning.
This week we are looking at the following three sets: Love Birds, Loads of Fun, and Garden of Friends.
I chose the first one, to use on my card below. Love Birds is a signature Torico-style set, that I simply adore!

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Melon Berry), Canson (cream); paper: My Mind's Eye (Be Loved); stamps: There She Goes (Love Birds); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black, Potter's Clay); R05 Copic; Nestabilities Circles/Scalloped Circles; MFT Die-Namics Scalloped Border; corner rounder: EK Success; striped ribbon; flowers

I chose MOJO220, for my layout:

I encourage you to hop on over to the TSG Blog, to see more artwork from the Trendsetters! Thank you for visiting,

Some New Year's cards

2011-12-21T09:52:00.003-05:00

Good evening, sweets!
I'm done with Christmas cards this year, most of them sent (thanks goodness), but I still lacked of a few New Year's cards for my Japanese friends. Now, these are tricky, provided that one wants to stay relatively true to tradition, as they would have an image of an animal that happens to be the emblem of the coming year.
I freaked out a bit, when I found out that 2012 is the Year of Dragon. I thought to myself, no way I would have a dragon stamp around. Then I remembered the "Puff-Heart Dragon" from Whiff Of Joy... what a relief! :)
I didn't ink up the puffy hearts though, for any of my cards, so that the smaller image would suit the layouts better.

Supplies: cardstock: recycled kraft, PTI (Ripe Avocado), white; paper: October Afternoon; stamps: Whiff Of Joy (Puff-Heart Dragon), The Craft's Meow (Happy New Year); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics; Nestabilities Picot Edge Circles; Liquid Pearls (Platinum Pearl); glitter glue; buttons; felt: MFT; alpha stickers: American Crafts; cotton ribbon

The colours come from JUGS115, and the sketch from SSSC148:

Another one, in a similar colour scheme:

Supplies: cardstock: recycled kraft, PTI (Simply Chartreuse), Canson (deep red), DCWV (dark green), white, silver; paper: October Afternoon; stamps: Whiff Of Joy (Puff-Heart Dragon), The Craft's Meow (Happy New Year); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); black pen; Copics; Nestabilities Circles/Lacey Circles; Cuttlebug embossing folder (Textile); star die: MFT Die-Namics; button

This time I combined the Card Patterns sketch 146, with cQc#116:

I'll see you (hopefully) tomorrow! Mwah,

A Hol-ODD-Day Hop!

2011-12-20T08:03:00.003-05:00

G'day, stampers! There's a fun event at the Some Odd Girl blog that I couldn't possibly miss... we have been given several options for our Holiday creations, and I chose a non-traditional colour combo, for my Christmas tag.
You will most probably see more tags from me throughout the rest of the week, as I get to assembling and packing our prezzies!

This tag I made for my sweet 5 yo niece, who loves pink (of course!) and just about anything girly and colourful... I think she'll dig this one! :)
I coloured the adorable Big Pressie Tia.

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Melon Mambo), white; paper: Echo Park Paper (Victoria Gardens); image: Some Odd Girl (Big Pressie Tia), My Mind's Eye (12 Days of Christmas); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics; Tag/tab dies: MFT Die-Namics; Nestabilities Circles; sewing machine; string; twill ribbon; Liquid Pearls (Pastel Raspberry)

These funky colours come from CTD172:

Thank you for visiting me today, I hope to see you again soon! xo

La La Land Crafts Monday Inspiration

2011-12-19T05:00:00.002-05:00

Hello again!
It's time for a Monday's post for La La Land Crafts! This week's theme is All White (except image)
I used the Cupid Marci on my card, the brand new stamp that will be released on January 5th (amongst the other FUN stamps, of course!)
Isn't she just DARLING??

Supplies: cardstock: Core'Dinations (textured white), embossed white card, white, silver; stamps: La La Land Crafts (Cupid Marci), The Craft's Meow (sentiment only); Copics; Fresh Cut Grass/Sheltering Tree Die-Namics; Nestabilities Fleur De Lis Accents; glitter glue

You can check the rest of the DT's fabulous creations, at the La La Land Crafts blog.
Pop in also to the store, to see the fabulous new Release!! You can find all of the new stamps HERE!

The Shabby Tea Room Guestie

2011-12-19T00:00:00.000-05:00

Hi, sweets! I have a great pleasure to Guest Design for The Shabby Tea Room today!
This week's challenge is this beautiful inspiration photo:

We're asked to use red, kraft, silver, newsprint and stars on our projects. Here's what I came up with:

Cardstock: Canson (pink), PTI (Sweet Blush), silver; papers/label sticker: October Afternoon; paper doily; corrugated cardboard; stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Candy Jar Christmas Fillers, Say It Loud - Winter Holidays); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black, Lady Bug); Copics; stars die: MFT Die-Namics; glitter glue; sewing machine; button twine; button; decorative trim

There's a similar colour inspiration at OCC this week as well, so I'm entering my card there. I also used the sketch from Cardabilities, below:

Hop on over to the TSTR blog, to see what the talented Design Team whipped up with the given inspiration! See you a little bit later, for my La La Land Crafts post :)

Slowly wrapping up Christmas...

2011-12-18T08:01:00.003-05:00

Hello, friends! At least on my ole' little bloggie, that is. I still have a couple of cards to send (*guilty*), and quite possibly a last minute order as well, so perhaps I don't have to say my good-byes to the Christmas cards just yet...
It was a very intense weekend, a gift-shopping, halls-decking kind of time. I so needed to unwind from the chores this evening, and used the opportunity to "check" a couple of challenges. In result, I got these...

Supplies: cardstock: recycled kraft; papers: October Afternoon (Sidewalks); stamps: Hero Arts (Classic Holly), Penny Black (Winter Wonders); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Versa Color (Petal Pink); Copics; black pen; Nestabilities Labels 18; sewing machine; brads; baker's twine; chipboard snowflakes: Maya Road; glitter glue

I paired MOJO219 sketch with the colours of cQc#115, on this card:

And another one...

Supplies: cardstock: Canson (cream), white; papers: My Mind's Eye, October Afternoon; stamps: WPlus9 (Flora & Fauna), Penny Black (Winter Wonders); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap), Color Box (Hunter Green); Copics; Liquid Pearls (Platinum Pearl; Nestabilities Labels 20; sewing machine; buttons; seam binding; pearl: AnnaBelle Stamps; button twine; border punch: Martha Stewart

This time I used the Deconstructed Sketch (DS31), along with the inspiration from TSTR92 (I added some red, as you can see)

Also, having used some twine on both of these projects, I'm entering them into RCC33 :)

It's time to get a good night's sleep now, but I'll see you tomorrow for a La La Land Crafts post, and a fun TSTR GD gig :)
Thank you for visiting!

Sketchbook Saturday Challenge #42

2011-12-17T07:05:00.002-05:00

*Please check out my Waltzingmouse sketch post below as well. Thanks!*

Hello again! This time I have a new sketch and card, but before I get to it, big thanks to all that play with my sketches each week! It truly is a rewarding experience, to see your unique and beautiful takes on it, and I LOVE sharing the joy of creating with you :)

This week I have another CAS design with a potential for building up if you so desire. I decided to go simple and let the stamps take the center stage, but I wouldn't mind giving it another try later (if time allows), with some pretty papers and layers.

I've been rummaging in my stamps and setting aside those that I'd still like to ink up this Holiday season... this poinsettia from Penny Black was the first one I grabbed. I inked it up only once before and I really don't have enough of it yet.
I was hesitating whether I want it Copic coloured or white embossed on red cardstock, and laziness won (I'd have to take out the embossing accessories from the cupboard in the other corner of the room, while my Copics are within the reach... yeah, I'm that lazy tonight, lol)

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Rustic White), recycled kraft; stamps: Penny Black (Christmas Pride, Winter Wonders); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics; grosgrain ribbon; sewing machine

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A few things to keep in mind if you decide to use my sketch:
- You're kindly asked to save the image onto your computer first, and if you make a card based on it, please link back to this post.
- If you upload your card to an online gallery, please use the code SSC42.
- Please share the link to your creation via the Inlinkz widget, so that I can come and check it out. I would love to see what you did with it!
- The colours/elements mean nothing towards the card. All styles, colours and supplies, as well as slight alterations of the sketch are welcome.
- A new sketch and sample is posted every Saturday, but you're welcome to play any time! Just leave a link in the comments section after Inlinkz widget closes.

---------------------------------------------------

Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge 78

2011-12-17T04:04:00.002-05:00

We're rolling in today, with the last Waltzingmouse sketch for the year! We're taking a break for the Holidays, and we're coming back with a brand new sketch on the 6th of January.
This week, the sketch is inspired by Christmas... "the star is born" :)

I'm still making Christmas cards, having discovered recently that after giving out a big portion of my stash to the family, I was left out with a shortage for our needs. Therefore, there still will be Christmas here on my lil' old bloggie, for a couple more days... :) Hooray!
I not only went extreme CAS, but also quite free-style, as I adapted the sketch to my collection of Waltzingmouse stamps. I decided that the snowflake from the Sewing Box - Christmas set, looks like a star... doesn't it? :)

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Ocean Tides, Aqua Mist), white; stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Sewing Box - Christmas, Say It Loud - Winter Holiday); ink: Versafine (Onyx Black); rhinestone brad; ScorBuddy; black pen

I'm entering this card into the Color Splash challenge at the Play Date Cafe (PDCC111).

There's plenty more inspiration, waiting for you at the Waltzingmouse Sketch blog, so make sure you'll make your way there too!
See you again in a bit,

Let it snow

2011-12-15T17:51:00.002-05:00

Hi sweets,
I'm popping in quickly, with a card from last night. I'm hoping to ink up a few more of my Holiday stamps before it's too late... making Christmas cards is so much fun!
This adorable stamp from Penny Black, I won last year and I haven't actually inked it up yet - until now.

Supplies: cardstock: white, American Crafts (black); papers: SEI; stamps: Penny Black (Caroling Penguins); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics; edge distresser; seam binding; vintage button; border punch: EK Success; snowflake die: MFT Die-Namics; Pink Paislee Artisan Elements

I took the sketch from SSS138 (turned on the side), and combined it with The Ribbon Reel Challenge #17. I added some shabbiness with distressing, to correspond with the photo inspiration, however the card is thoroughly cutesy...

See you later! :)

Glitz Design going festive

2011-12-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

Hi peeps, it's time to get Glitzy!! And, considering that Christmas is fast approaching (YAY!!!), I'm doing it in a holiday fashion. You think it would be hard to put together a Holiday-themed card, with the non-holiday collection? Nope. Glitz has it all covered, with a multitude of fun papers, whatnots, and a couple of embellishments, you will have a wonderfully festive card whipped up in no time!
Lookie...

Firstly, let me brag a little bit, about my favourite ever collection from Glitz, Beautiful Dreamer. It's sweet and girly, but yet its colours are perfect for a non-traditional Christmas project. I admitted it many times on my blog, how much I love pink and teal and what a wonderful combo it is for the Holidays.
I utilized one of the papers on this card, that looks like candy cane, along with a Whatnot, trimmed to give a beautiful flourish frame for the focal point. I even found a matching sticker, so appropriate for the occasion!

Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" paper: Stripe
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Whatnot
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Trim
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Titles Cardstock Stickers
Glitz Design "Beautiful Dreamer" Giant Rhinestones

Other: cardstock: recycled kraft, teal; snowflake stamp: The Craft's Meow; ink: Memento (Bamboo Leaves); snowflake die: My Favorite Things Die-Namics; glitter glue; buttons; striped ribbon

For the next card, I reached for one of the older collections, that I adore for its beautiful and rich designs, especially the papers - Love Games. The card that I made with it, is a hip and funky approach to the silly season. Again, I utilized the supplies on hand, from the said collection as well as a little bit of "Hoopla", to create a collage card with the Holidays in mind.

Glitz Design "Love Games" papers: Damask, Polka, Stripe, Floral
Glitz Design "Love Games" Titles Cardstock Stickers
Glitz Design Teeny Alpha: Navy, Pearl
Glitz Design "Hoopla" Whatnot

Other: cardstock: white; ornament stamp: Hero Arts; ink: Memento (Rhubarb Stalk); Dizzy Doily die: My Favorite Things Die-Namics; string; buttons; seam binding

So what do you say? Aren't these papers and trinkets versatile?? Yes siree! That's one of the things that I love these for :)
See you next time, for some New Year's cards! Hugs,

CASE Study Challenge #70

2011-12-15T00:01:00.002-05:00

This week's CASE Study challenge is the last one before Christmas, and we're keeping it open for two weeks, so that (hopefully) everyone who wants to have a go, will have a chance to do so :)
Our December Muse is Amy Sheffer, and this time I picked this wonderfully detailed card from her, to serve as an inspiration:

It's gorgeous in so many ways, I don't even know where to start... I love the boldness of black, but as it often happens, I went in a different direction and created with pastels. I stamped the flowers on the background, instead of lacey flourishes, and put the sentiment in the circle.
I used the same embossing folder, on the cool blue strip of cardstock, just like Amy did. I LOVE that colour :)

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Fine Linen, Rustic White), American Crafts (aqua); stamps: Hero Arts (Dogwood, Say Hello); ink: Versa Magic (Oasis Green), Fresh Ink (Provincial Grey); Spellbinders Nestabilities Circles/Fleur De Lis Accents; twill ribbon; sewing machine; butterfly die: PTI; Cuttlebug embossing folder (Swiss Dots)

I also combined the Card Patterns sketch 145 (can you see it??), with Tuesday Trigger: A Partridge on a Pear Tree, and OCC's All Ruffled Up challenge.

Please visit my sweet and talented DT at their blogs, and check out what they whipped up with this week's inspiration!

Amy Sheffer (December Muse)
Amy Wanford
Andrea Ewen
Clare Buswell
Cristina Kowalczyk
Debby Hughes
Jean Martin
Julie Lacey
Maureen Plut
Teneale Williams
Teresa Kline

Hop over to the CASE Study blog, where you'll find all the details, fabulous inspiration and InLinkz tool to link up your creation!
As always, thank you so much for visiting, and leaving such sweet comments :)

TSG134 - Color challenge

2011-12-14T20:07:00.003-05:00

I'm sorry for having abandoned you for two days... I didn't shy off from stamping, in fact I was as busy as always! I started preparing stuff for the time that we're off for a vacation after Christmas... lots and lots to make still! One only realizes how much gets posted every week, when that week's taken from them :)
Anyway, I'm (again) late to the party... meaning the new challenge at the TSG blog!
It's brought to us by our Trendsetter of the week- Theresa, and she has challenged us to make a card using the colors blue, pink, and red with a winter theme.

Now, I already had it established, that this combo is my absolute favourite for Christmas/winter this year. There is one more card with these colours, coming on my blog in Monday, and I can't wait to share it :)
For now, I present you with this fun number, put together with the beautiful Snowy Days set by Torico:

Supplies: cardstock: Canson (pink, red), white; papers: Cosmo Cricket (Mitten Weather); stamps: There She Goes (Snowy Days ); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Copics; Nestabilities Fleur De Lis Rectangles; twill ribbon; button: Basic Grey; corner rounder: EK Success; button twine; Liquid Pearls (Pastel Raspberry)

The inspiration for my layout comes from SC363:

To be eligible for the giveaway, you are to create a card the photo as your inspiration, , and then come back to the TSG Blog to add your name and a link to your project in the InLinkz that is located at the bottom of this challenge post. This challenge is open until the winner has been announced on the following Monday (December 12th). The winner will get a $5 gift certificate to use in the TSG Web store!

By participating in this challenge, you may also find yourself in the Trendsetting Spotlight that shines on the TSG Blog every Thursday. We will be on the look out to find challenge cards that stand out and show Trendsetting qualities. TSG stamps are not required to participate in the challenges but are appreciated :)

You do not need to have a blog to be able to participate in the TSG Challenges! You can simply add the URL link from your project after it has been uploaded to your online craft gallery. If you upload your card to an online craft gallery, please use the keyword TSG134 so we can check out your beautiful work!

I'll have one more post ready, in a couple of hours, when the next CASE Study challenge launches. See you then! xo

La La Land Crafts Monday Inspiration

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

Hi again, sweets!
I'm chiming in with a Monday's post for La La Land Crafts! This week's theme is All About Circles (make a circle card or use circles on it)
I used the Sweetheart Marci on my card, a true sweetheart she is!

Supplies: cardstock: SU! (Purely Pomegranate), pink, white; paper: Cosmo Cricket; stamps: La La Land Crafts (Sweetheart Marci), PTI (Say It In Style); Copics; ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Nestabilities Circles/Floral Doily Motifs/Grommet Tags; Liquid Pearls (Pastel Raspberry); baker's twine

You can check the rest of the DT's fabulous creations, at the La La Land Crafts blog.
Pop in also to the store, to see the fabulous new Release!! You can find all of the new stamps HERE!

CAS-ify me: Christmas cards

2011-12-11T20:23:00.002-05:00

I sooo wish I didn't have to finish with Holiday cards soon... just like last year, I already have more than enough to send to my family and friends, but those gorgeous designs just keep popping in my hands! I can't seem to stop...
This morning I had a fun time, designing some simple cards that will be great for mailing - flat and light. I sure do like piling up stuff, but they're a nightmare to send... :)
Here we go!

For the first card below, I knew I wanted to use the negative die cutting for he ornaments. I used the designs from The Craft's Meow's Vintage Ornaments, and the sentiment from Vintage Snowflakes. LOVE these sets :)
I wanted to add some simple silhouette holly leaves, at the end of the "cords", but I didn't have anything suitable. Gasp! You would think that in a reasonable stash of stamps, one would be able to dig out some "hollies"... I ended up using these fun little sprigs from TSG's new Holly Jolly set, and coloured the berries with a red Copic.

Supplies: cardstock: Canson (pink, white), stamps: The Craft's Meow (Vintage Snowflakes, Vintage Ornaments), There She Goes (Holly Jolly); ink: Versa Magic (Turquoise Gem), Memento (Bamboo Leaves), Fresh Ink (Provincial Gray); Nestabilities Circles; red Copic marker

My inspiration comes from this fabulous Tuesday Trigger: Deck The Halls

Another card, this time inspired by the Get Inspired by Fashion Challenge in the Moxie Fab World (inspiration below the card). I took the colours from the photo, and because I don't have the suitable houndstooth stamp, I once again reached for my beloved Nordic Winter set from Waltzingmouse Stamps... can you tell I'm positively CRAZY about it??
The branch is from another favvie of mine, Festive Foliage, and the sentiment comes from Say It Loud - Winter Holiday.

Supplies: cardstock: white, PTI (Spring Moss), Canson (grey); stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Nordic Winter, Festive Foliage, Say It Loud - Winter Holiday); ink: Fresh Ink (Pear, Provincial Gray), ColorBox (Hunter Green), Versafine (Onyx Black); black pen; corner rounder: EK Success

Here's the Moxie Fab inspiration :)

I'll pop in later today, with my La La Land card, and hopefully once more, with a new TSG challenge... until then, thanks for looking! xo

Busy, busy!!

2011-12-11T00:48:00.004-05:00

**Please check out my JG's Nook card below as well!**
**content heavy post**

I promised in my previous post, that some new cards are waiting to be blogged... I normally would blog them straight away, as you know, but it's been a mad weekend, and I'm surprised I had any time for stamping at all... I turned out to be quite multi-tasking but I really wanted to catch up on a couple of favourites, before I start preparing stuff ahead, for our vacation in Christmas time :)
There are three cards that I'd like to share, so I better cut the babbling short and get to the merit :)

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Simply Chartreuse), Canson (cream, red), white; paper: October Afternoon (Sidewalks); stamps: Flourishes (Berry Sweet); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Versa Color (Celadon); Copics; Nestabilities Circles/Parisian Motifs; pinking shears; sewing machine; twill ribbon; button; Liquid Pearls (Bisque)

Made with the fabulous FTTC147 sketch, and the colours of PDCC110:

Some more Flourishes (and Copics...)

Supplies: cardstock: recycled kraft, white; paper: Cosmo Cricket; stamps: Flourishes (Feminine Charm); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Versa Color (Umber), Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap); Copics; Nestabilities Labels 18/Rose Creations; sewing machine; distressing tool; brad: Basic Grey; pearls: AnnaBelle Stamps; lace trim; string

The challenges for this one are: MOJO218 (sketch), cQc#114 (colours), and Flourishes Feminine Flair challenge (FLLCDEC11):

Lastly, I've got a CAS card, for the new challenge in the neighbourhood... Runway Inspired (RIC#1). Jennifer assembled an all-star team, and I know that I'll try to be a frequent visitor... so much inspiration!

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Summer Sunrise), white; stamps: WPlus9 (Flora & Fauna I, Woodgrain Silhouettes Additions), The Craft's Meow (All You Need Is Love), Hero Arts (Designer Woodgrain); ink: Memento (Rich Cocoa), Hero Arts (Soft Apricot); Copics; Nestabilities Circles; PTI embossing plate; Atyou Spica Pen (clear)

Here's the inspiration for this challenge:

Okey-dokey... I've got to run now, so much stuff to do! I'll make sure that I won't keep you neglected, though :) Thanks so much for visiting!!

Jay Gee's Nook - All about you!

2011-12-10T21:34:00.003-05:00

It's time for another Jay Gee's Nook post!

I had a great time, colouring the Shopping Emily stamp, from Sparkle Creations...

Supplies: cardstock: Canson (grey), white, American Crafts (brown), SU! (retired yellow); paper: My Mind's Eye (Fine & Dandy); stamps: Sparkle Creations (Shopping Emily), The Craft's Meow (Lovely Labels 18); ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Versa Color (Celadon); Copics; sewing machine; MFT Die-Namics (Stacking Stars); Nestabilities Labels 19; gem: AnnaBelle Stamps

I used the sketch DS30:

Hop on over to the JG's Nook blog, to see the rest of the Design Team's creations!
I'm running late today, I guess it's normal, with the Christmas preparations now in full gear, and not enough time for stamping :)
However, I will check in soon-ish, as I'll have a couple of cards to share, that I made the other day and haven't yet blogged. Stay tuned!

Sketchbook Saturday Challenge #41

2011-12-10T03:09:00.002-05:00

*Please check out my Waltzingmouse sketch post below as well. Thanks!*

After the simple sketch last week, how about a layered one? I really like this layout... as always, feel free to make it as detailed or as easy as you wish!

I don't normally create with barely any or no stamping at all these days, but seeing as I'm far from being tired with Christmas cards this year, I wanted to play some more with the 12 Days Of Christmas collection from MME, that I simply LOVE. The single element that saw the ink on this creation, are the snowflakes behind the baubles (from The Craft's Meow's Warm Winter Wishes set)

Supplies: cardstock: PTI (Raspberry Fizz), white; papers/die-cuts/rhinestones: My Mind's Eye (12 Days Of Christmas); stamps: The Craft's Meow (Warm Winter Wishes); ink: Versa Magic (Sea Breeze); Nestabilities Fleur De Lis Rectangles; sewing machine

My colour inspiration comes from JAI97 and Scrapbook Boutique's December Challenge (red, pink, blue & white)

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A few things to keep in mind if you decide to use my sketch:
- You're kindly asked to save the image onto your computer first, and if you make a card based on it, please link back to this post.
- If you upload your card to an online gallery, please use the code SSC41.
- Please share the link to your creation via the Inlinkz widget, so that I can come and check it out. I would love to see what you did with it!
- The colours/elements mean nothing towards the card. All styles, colours and supplies, as well as slight alterations of the sketch are welcome.
- A new sketch and sample is posted every Saturday, but you're welcome to play any time! Just leave a link in the comments section after Inlinkz widget closes.

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Waltzingmouse Sketch Challenge 77

2011-12-10T03:00:00.002-05:00

Happy weekend, crafty friends! We're rolling in with a new Waltzingmouse sketch challenge!! This week we're having a simple and classic sketch for you to try:

I hope you're not having enough of Nordic Winter... I can't seem to put that stamp set away! I paired it with the label from Holiday Labels 14, and the sentiment is from Compliments of the Season.

Supplies: cardstock: white, embossed white, recycled kraft; stamps: Waltzingmouse Stamps (Nordic Winter, Holiday Labels 14, Compliments of the Season); ink: Memento (Rich Cocoa, Lady Bug), Distress Ink (Frayed Burlap), PTI (Fresh Snow); Nestabilities Labels 14/Parisian Motifs; buttons; lace trim; pearls: AnnaBelle Stamps

There's plenty more inspiration, waiting for you at the Waltzingmouse Sketch blog, so make sure you'll make your way there too!
See you again in a bit,