Stamping Deets

Feeling Blue

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

It's Monday, and I really do have the winter blues. Sinus infection time for me, AGAIN! But, the good thing is that it's also time for another challenge on the Outlines Challenge Blog. "Feeling Blue" is our challenge theme this week. We are being challenged to use blue as our dominant color in our creation. Make sure you play along with us this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company. That would certainly be one way to cure the blues!

For my creation, I selected the Outlines image Christmas Layering Collage (K-704). I only inked the adorable snowman portion of the collage with Marvy black dye and colored the image with Copic markers. I then framed it with a layer of white cardstock. Then, using Nestabilities dies to build this shaped card, I cut patterned paper from Kaiser Craft's Jungle Bug Collection and Core'dinations cardstock. One circle was run through the Cuttlebug with a dry embossing folder to add texture.

Finishing touches for this card include sheer white ribbon and a snowflake brad.

If you have a case of the winter blues, do go visit the blogs of the design team this week. You'll be cured in no time when you see their lovely blue creations.

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Julie Warner
Lisa Silver
Sue Kment

Thank you so much for visiting my blog today. A-choo!

Stampin' Sisterhood, Monkey Valentine

2012-01-22T09:58:00.002-05:00

There's a lot going on this weekend with Rubbernecker Stamps! If you are looking for my Kittie Hop post, scroll down or click here.

If you are looking for this week's Rubbernecker Stampin' Sisterhood Challenge, you are in the right place! Make sure you head over to the Rubbernecker Stampin' Sisterhood blog for this week's challenge. Remember, if you play along, you will have chance to win a FREE STAMP from Rubbernecker and be queened Sunday Sister. And, at the end of each month, all the month's Sunday Sisters will be put in a random drawing to win a STAMP SET from Rubbernecker Stamps!

This week's challenge is an inspiration photo:

For my card, I decided to use the heart shape and the light pink color from the inspiration photo.

I stamped Rubbernecker's "Monkey" (SKU:569-17) with Marvy black dye onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers and cut around the image with my Cutter-bee scissors.

I cut two hearts using Nestabilities dies. They were embossed as well, and I sponged Distress Ink Spun Sugar and Whispers Whisper Pink dye inks onto the hearts. I adhered Baker's Twine to the hearts so that they would appear like balloons, with the cute monkey holding onto the balloon strings.

Patterned paper from Pebbles was paper pierced and the balloons and monkey were arranged onto this panel. I stamped the Rubbernecker sentiment "Monkey Around" (SKU:568-14) onto this panel with Versafine Onyx Black.

Thank you for stopping by my blog today. I do appreciate it and hope you'll play along with the challenge too!

Rubbernecker Kittie Hop

2012-01-21T10:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Sister Friends!! How are you? Thank you for joining in on the KITTIE KIT HOP fun!! We are SO excited to share with you! In case you didn’t know, Rubbernecker Stamps has a line of stamps called KITTIE KITS and they include a variety of images; these images can be used together in MANY different ways to create MANY different things!! Just wait, you will see what I mean! The Stampin’ Sisterhood has come together to share some of the ways that THEY use them! There is a HOP ROUTE for you to follow below! You will find it along with MY creation! AND? So you won’t get lost, EACH Sister will have this list for you, to help you on your journey!! Make sure to leave some LOVE at every stop, for you will want to be eligible for our PRIZE!! What fun would it be without a PRIZE!!

You could WIN……………….
Your choice of one AWESOME ……
KITTIE KIT stamp set
Of your CHOICE!

The winner will be announced
FRIDAY 1/27
So you all have time to HOP!!

How cool is that? OK, better get HOPPIN’, there is LOTS to see!! Be on the look out for our NEXT HOP coming IN FEBRUARY!! We look forward to bringing you MORE sharing and prizes!! Until then, be sure to check out the daily posts on the STAMPIN’ SISTERHOOD blog!! There is LOTS of inspiration to be found! Thanks again for joining us today and ENJOY!!

**HOP ROUTE**

Even though this is a winter Valentine, I created this card using Rubbernecker's Kittie Causes a Scene set called "Fall Harvest"(SKU:KKCS S009). All of Kittie's sets are just so versatile!

First, I brayered VersaColor Sky Gray pigment ink onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock. A Post It Note mask was used to create the snow covered ground. I stamped the tree from Kittie Causes a Scene "Fall Harvest" onto the brayered panel with Marvy black dye ink. I colored the tree with a Copic marker. The tree's shadow was simply made by sponging VersaColor Sky Gray pigment ink next to the tree. The hearts were made with a red Viva Decor Pearl Pen (instead of a typical dot, I just drew hearts with the pen). The glistening of the snowline was achieved by using Crystal Stickles. The sentiment of love was simple written with a Copic marker to look like it was written in the snow with a stick or finger.

The scene was framed with black cardstock and texturized white cardstock. I sheer black ribbon completes the card.

Bee Mine

2012-01-16T05:00:00.001-05:00

It's Monday (and I'm delighted to have today off from work)! It's time for another challenge on the Outlines Challenge Blog. This week our challenge theme is "Love is in the Air" and we are to make Valentine's creations. Make sure you play along with us this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company.

For my Valentine, I selected the Outlines image "Tall Be Mine" (F-811). I stamped the image onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock with Marvy black dye and colored the image with Copic markers. I cut around the image with my Cutter-bee scissors and placed the stack of hearts onto a panel of white cardstock framed with pink cardstock, with some of the hearts spilling "out-of-the box". The bee was also placed like it was flying to the pile of hearts. On the top of the tower I stamped the word "mine" (which is a portion of the image), inking with a Memento Tuxedo Black marker, and lining up that portion of the stamp with my Stamp-a-ma-jig. On the hearts and the bee, highlights of Crystal Stickles were applied. Also, some Crystal AB Swarovski Crystals (Sizes 5, 9, and 12) added some bling to the hearts and were applied with the help of Picksey-Pick Ups.

I stamped the image again, colored and cut the two hearts that are off to the side of the tower of hearts. I placed the images onto a panel of Bo Bunny patterned paper that was paper pierced and also framed with white and pink cardstock. I adhered Blossom Light Pink Baker's Twine as a small flight pattern of the bee.

Make sure you buzz on over the the blogs of the design team. You are going to LOVE what they've created for you this week!

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Julie Warner
Lisa Silver
Sue Kment

Thank you so much for visiting my blog today. I do appreciate it. I hope you have a great week ahead.

Snow? What's That?

2012-01-09T05:00:00.001-05:00

It's Monday! Time for another challenge on the Outlines Challenge Blog. This week our challenge theme is "Winter Wonderland". Though I haven't had to shovel yet this winter, this was a fun challenge (just between you and me, I hope the snow stays away this year). Make sure you play along with us this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company.

For my card, I used the Outlines image of "Snowflake Topper" (I-791). I stamped the image with Versamark Watermark onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock, and heat embossed with Judikins White Diamond embossing powder (it is very sparkly). I then cut around the snowflake outline with my Cutter-bee scissors. Once I had the snowflake cut, I covered its entirety with more Versamark and once again heat embossed with the White Diamond embossing powder. Then, using an Ice White Pearl Pen I added pearl drops along the outline of the snowflake (I sure wish I could get a decent photo to capture this effect...grrr! As we know, nothing is easy about snow). I also added clear crystal beads to the snowflake points and center to add to the sparkle.

I placed the snowflake onto a piece of patterned paper from Hot Off the Press that had been paper pierced. I tied a sheer white ribbon and a silver ribbon onto the card.

(I love this card, though the photo does not capture its sparkle and shimmer at all. Kinda ironic, seeing as how I take my photos outside and the weather was very cooperative with sunny skies and warm temperatures. Maybe it wasn't cold enough for this particular card...LOL!)

Do make your way to the blogs of the design team. There's a blizzard of snow just waiting for you!

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Julie Warner
Lisa Silver
Sue Kment

Thank you so much for visiting my blog today. I do wish you a great week.

Stampin' Sisterhood, Hot Dog!

2012-01-08T09:55:00.000-05:00

It's Sunday! Make sure you head over to the Rubbernecker Stampin' Sisterhood blog for this week's challenge. Remember, if you play along, you will have chance to win a FREE STAMP from Rubbernecker and be queened Sunday Sister. And, at the end of each month, all the month's Sunday Sisters will be put in a random drawing to win a STAMP SET from Rubbernecker Stamps!

For this week's challenge, we are being given the following sketch:

For my card, I stamped the Rubbernecker image of "Dog" (SKU:568-11) with Marvy black ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers and cut around the image with my Cutter-bee scissors.

Using my Nestabilities dies, I cut and embossed two hearts. I sponged these hearts with Distress Ink Sugar Spun and Whispers Whisper Pink dye ink. I paper pierced around the hearts. Then, I arranged these hearts onto a panel of patterned paper from Lasting Impressions, that I also paper pierced. I placed the dachshund image onto the hearts, and added the paw print ribbon and dog bones. The sentiment is computer generated.

Thank you so much for visiting my blog today. Make sure you visit the Rubbernecker Stampin' Sisterhood blog to see some more interpretations of this sketch, and to play along for your chance to win.

Red Roses

2012-01-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I was responsible for the post on the Stampin' Sisterhood blog for Rubbernecker. In case you didn't see it, I thought I'd give you the gist of what I posted there. But, do promise me you'll check out the Stampin' Sisterhood blog often, because lots of fun things happen there throughout the week.

I spent all of Monday watching the Rose Parade and all of the college bowl games on television. In 1997, I was fortunate enough to see the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl in person. It totally raised my appreciation for all of the hard work that takes place in Pasadena each and every New Year Year. The one thing that I vividly remember about the experience that you can't get from television is that you can actually smell the floats as they passed by the crowds. I was fascinated by this, and each and every year since, I fondly remember my time in Pasadena. I do hope I get to go again someday.

Because of this, I was inspired to get out my Rubbernecker stain glass image of "Rose" (SKU: 223-03). I stamped this awesome image with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press it cardstock. I colored it with Copic markers. I then stamped the image again using Stazon Jet Black ink onto a piece of acetate. On the reversed side of where the image was stamped, I added some highlights with Copic markers. I merged the two together and secured them together with adhesive, so that it appears more like stained glass. I framed the image with black cardstock.

I then placed the image panel onto a sheet of black and silver patterned metallic paper (I have no idea who makes this, I've hoarded it for years!) and then framed the card with another piece of black cardstock. A sheer black ribbon and two black brads complete the card.

Thanks so much for stopping by my blog today. I have another card in mind celebrating a float I saw when I was watching the Rose Parade. Stay tuned and be patient, because I am back to my day job after two weeks off.

Sketchy Start

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

It's Monday! The first Monday of 2012, and it is already starting out sketchy on the Outlines Challenge Blog. This week the challenge is to make a card using the sketch provided. Make sure you play along with us this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company.

We were provided with the following sketch:

I proceeded as follows:

I stamped the Outlines image of "Tall Presents" F-810 onto X-Press It cardstock with Marvy black dye ink and colored with Copic markers. I highlighted some of the stars and dots with Crystal Stickles. I then rounded two of the corners of this image panel with a corner rounder punch.

Then, I stamped the Outlines image of "Star Strip" E-561 with Marvy black dye ink onto another piece of X-Press It cardstock. I colored with Copic markers and highlighted with Crystal Stickles. Then, I cut along the scalloped portion of the image.

I stamped the Outlines sentiment "Tiny Celebrate Your Day" (AA-832) onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored over it with a Copic marker and placed as if it were a package in the stack.

Patterned paper from Doodlebug Designs was used for the layers of this card, along with white cardstock and electric blue cardstock. One of the layers was run through the Cuttlebug with a Cuttlebug embossing folder. All layers were slightly sponged with Distress It Tumbled Glass ink.

The finishing touches to this card include sheer white ribbon, Blossom Light Pink Baker's Twine, pink curling ribbon, and a shiny blue star brad.

Start the New Year right by visiting the blogs of the design team, and say hello to our newest design team member, Julie Warner.

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Julie Warner
Lisa Silver
Sue Kment

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today!

Libra

2011-12-31T18:24:00.006-05:00

When we came into the year 2011, I was considered a Libra. Who knows what I am now since they recalculated all of the signs. It doesn't really matter to me. I just needed a way to begin this post, LOL!

Reflecting on the year, I feel like I have very much neglected my colored pencils. Probably because it is way quicker to color with markers. So, I decided to end the year with a relaxing coloring session with a Terry Medaris Zodiac image, called "Libra". Guess I'd better figure out my new sign...reason to buy a new stamp, LOL!

I stamped "Libra" onto Strathmore Bristol smooth paper with Stazon Jet Black ink. I colored the image with Prismacolor pencils and Caran d'Ache pencils. When finished, I sprayed the image with workable fixative.

I framed the image with black cardstock, and then placed it onto a sheet of orangy-rust cardstock. I stamped some small stars (also included with this stamp of Terry's) with Versamark, just to add a subtle background. I paper pierced around this panel. I then framed this panel with black cardstock. The thing about working with a Terry Medaris image, I truly believe the image speaks for itself and needs very little if any embellishing or layers. I finished the card with a circle clip and a gold cord bow.

I wanted to thank you all for visiting my blog this year, and hope you will continue to follow my creative journey into the new year. I hope everyone has a 2012 that is filled with happiness, good health and love (regardless of your sign, LOL!)

Oh No!

2011-12-30T17:50:00.006-05:00

I got the idea for this card from a card on Zazzle. It made me laugh, so I knew I had to try and replicate that humor.

I decided to use Rubbernecker's "Blake" (SKU:593-01) for the snowman image. Using a Tuxedo Black Memento marker, I inked the image (leaving off the sign Blake carries). I stamped the image onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock. I then placed a Post-It mask of Blake and snow onto the cardstock and brayered the following dye inks: Vivid Bermuda Blue, Adirondack Sail Boat Blue, and Adirondack Stone Washed. After removing the masks, I colored Blake with Copic markers, and then added a line of Crystal Stickles on the ground.

With a brush, I added many snow flakes (dots) with Copic Opaque White.

The sentiment is computer generated. I used my Cricut (George and Basic Shapes) to get a template for the speech bubble.

I placed a panel of acetate over the square scene I created.

Sheer white ribbon and a snowflake ribbon put the finishing touches on this card. The image is framed with black and blue cardstock.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today!

Texting SNOW

2011-12-29T00:39:00.006-05:00

Hope you don't mind another card with Rubbernecker's "Zac" (SKU 596-01) on it. He is a cutie, after all.

I got the idea from two actual Christmas cards I received this holiday season...both which were long, tall cards that spelled the word "SNOW" on them. One of the cards used a snowman for the letter "O". So, I guess you can say I am CASE-ing my mail now.

To make this card, I stamped the image of Zac onto a piece of Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock with Marvy black dye. I colored the image with Copic markers. Then, I proceeded to color over Zac and his bird friends with a Versamarker and used clear embossing powder to heat emboss over the image. This created a mask.

I then proceeded to brayer the following dye inks onto the cardstock to create the sky and horizon line (which was made with a torn Post-It note): SeaShells Seashell Pink, Vivid Bermuda Blue, Adirondack Sail Boat Blue, and Adirondack Stonewashed. I added some Crystal Stickles at the horizon line. I then sprayed the entire card with Tsukineko's Frost Sheer Shimmer Spritz.

With my Cricut and the "George and Basic Shapes" cartridge, I cut out the letters of S-N-and-W using blue cardstock. I placed these letters onto the scene, spelling "SNOW", allowing Zac to be the letter "O".

Using Copic Opaque White and a paint brush, I added snowflakes to the scene, and painted some fallen snow on the letters. The card is frame with white and blue cardstock.

A sheer white ribbon and a snowflake brad complete the card.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today. I have another card in my mind using Zac...and so I'm thinking why put away these inks and the image before I make it? Check back real soon...providing that I pull it off, it will be my warped sense of humor at work again.

Snowglobe

2011-12-28T12:46:00.008-05:00

I truly love having time off from work because it allows me to sleep in and then make cards throughout the day and into the late night. I could get used to this.

I wanted to share a card I made using Rubbernecker's "Zac" (SKU:596-01).

First, I used my Cricut, along with the cartridge "Cricut Cheer" to cut the shape of the snowglobe...twice, once with X-Press It cardstock and once with a glossy light blue cardstock.

Using the X-Press It globe, I stamped Zac using Marvy black dye ink. I then masked Zac with a Post-It note and sponged the following dye inks to make the background, also using a mask for the line of snow: Distress Ink Spun Sugar, SeaShells Seashell Pink, Distress Ink Tumbled Glass, Adirondack Sail Boat Blue, and Adirondack Stonewashed. Then, after removing the masked, I colored Zac using Copic markers, and added Crystal Stickles at the horizon line. Falling snow was added using Copic Opaque White using a paintbrush.

I then cut out a circle of acetate to place on top of the circled globe, to appear as glass.

I cut off the base of the snowglobe made with the glossy light cardstock and placed it on the bottom of the X-Press It snowglobe. I sponged some Adirondack Sail Boat Blue along the edges of the base.

I placed the completed snowglobe onto a panel of patterned paper from Me & My Big Ideas. I paper pierced around this panel. A sheer white bow and a snowflake brad put the finishing touches on this card.

I sure appreciate that you visited my blog today! Thank you so much. Enjoy your day.

2011 Christmas Card - Peeps on Earth

2011-12-27T01:11:00.004-05:00

It occurred to me that I never shared my official 2011 Christmas card. You know, the ones sent to friends and family. Not surprising, because Christmas came and went in a flash this year. I didn't even arrive at the design of this card until December 17. And then the massive production and assembly line took place for three days. Each and every year, I always say I'll have my design by July. Each and every year, it seems I get the design in mid-December. Oh well.

I'm pleased with this year's card, not because of the design or level of difficulty with it (it was rather simple to make)...just because I think it is funny. Just plain funny. (I know, my sense of humor could be considered a bit warped).

At the beginning of December, this was on display at my local grocery store. Unbelievable. Christmas music in the background, Christmas displays all over the place, and yet this was in front of every checkout.

A couple weeks later, I go back to this picture and bizarre sighting and behold...the 2011 Christmas card was born, along with this picture from the Peeps fan page on Facebook.

I printed the digital Peeps image called "My Peeps" from Whimsie Doodles onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers, and cut around the Peeps using my Cutter-bee scissors. I then sprayed the Peeps with Tsukineko's Sparkle Sheer Shimmer Spritz. I drew the Santa hat and placed it on one of the Peep's head.

Then I simply created the snow scene using patterned paper from The Paper Studio and torn white cardstock. I covered the white cardstock with Polar White Flower Soft.

I then attached a sheer white ribbon and bow to the card. The sentiment "Peeps on Earth" was computer-generated. A punch was used to round the bottom corners of the card.

So, all of this begs the question...what will my Easter cards look like? Halloween? LOL!

Holly-Day Thank You

2011-12-26T05:00:00.001-05:00

It's Monday! The Monday after Christmas, which means it is time another challenge from the Outlines Challenge Blog. This week the challenge is to make a holiday thank you card, which will surely come in handy as we thank our friends and loved ones for the special memories of the holidays. Make sure you play along with us this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company.

For my card, I decided to use the beautiful Outlines image of "Holly Background" (J-984). I stamped it with Marvy black dye ink onto Cryogen White cardstock from Curious Metallics. I colored the image with Copic markers, and added some highlights with Crystal Stickles onto the berries.

I also stamped "Posy Greeting Center" (F-1049) onto Cyrogen White cardstock with Marvy black dye ink. I used Copic markers as well to color the sentiment. I cut around the circle and placed it on the side of the image.

I framed the image panel with gold cardstock. I also used patterned paper from Crate Paper for the background, which is also framed with gold cardstock. A sheer gold ribbon completes the card.

You will be thankful when you visit the gorgeous creations on the blogs of the Design Team this week. Be sure to visit:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

I hope you had a great holiday, and I THANK YOU so much for visiting my blog today.

Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree

2011-12-25T00:35:00.007-05:00

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree. Yes, that song has been in my head ever since I saw a recent documentary on the band Chicago. They recorded a new Christmas album and this song is on it. So, there is no surprise at all that the song served as inspiration for this card.

I stamped the Rubbernecker image of "Ethel and the Group" (SKU:562-10) with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored it with Copic markers, and then cut around the image with my Cutter-bee scissors.

The Christmas tree image was cut from green cardstock with the Cricut using the cartridge Christmas Cheer. I then dry embossed the image using a Cuttlebug embossing folder and sponged around the tree using Adirondack Lettuce dye ink. I decorated the tree with Jolee's dimensional sticker lights, Viva Decor Pearl Pens (Ice White and Red), Baker's Twine, and Tsukineko's Frost Sheer Shimmer Spritz.

Patterned paper from Amscan was used to create the card panel and red cardstock frames this panel. I paper pierced around the patterned paper, as well as added dots from the red Pearl Pen.

The sentiment is computer generated.

(Click on the photo to view larger)

Thank you so much for visiting my blog on this Christmas Day. Wishing you all happiness, health and hope this season. Rock on!

Season's Greetings

2011-12-23T20:55:00.006-05:00

In this post, you will see two cards, one being a blooper.

Let's start with the one that is passable first:

The images used on this card are digital stamps from Kaye Winiecki at The Lily Pad. I printed the tree multiple times and the presents onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the images with Copic markers, and added some sparkle with Crystal Stickles. The tree is pop-dotted for dimension.

I placed tree and the presents onto a piece of torn white cardstock that was sprayed with Tsukineko's Frost Sheer Shimmer Spritz. The "snow" was then placed on a piece of patterned paper from The Paper Studio. A punch rounded the corners, and the scene was placed onto a white piece of cardstock that was dry-embossed with a Cuttlebug folder.

The sentiment is from Hero Arts and was stamped with Versafine Onyx Black ink. A sheer ribbon and a snowflake brad complete the card.

And now, for the blooper...(I'm sharing because I think it is passable to the untrained eye):

Very similar to the above card...all images from Kaye Winiecki at The Lily Pad. They too were printed on X-Press It cardstock and colored with Copic markers and highlighted with Crystal Stickles.

The "snow" is simply torn cardstock sprayed with Tsukineko's Frost Sheer Shimmer Spritz and is placed on patterned paper by The Paper Studio.

The sentiment is from Anna Wight's Cling Mount Set "Got Mistletoe" from Whipper Snapper Designs. This was stamped with Versafine Onxy Black ink.

The problem with this card is in the tree construction. When I was pop-dotting for dimension, I accidentally made the tree wider/fuller at the top than at the bottom. But, I thought I'd share anyway. ;-)

Thank you so much for stopping by my blog on during this very busy time of year. I do so much appreciate it. Season's Greetings to you and yours.

Let It Snow!

2011-12-19T05:00:00.003-05:00

It's Monday! Time for another challenge from the Outlines Challenge Blog! This week the challenge is to "Let It Snow" by using the theme of snow in your creations. You know, snowflakes, snowmen, etc. Make sure you play along with us this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company.

What was difficult about this week's challenge is that the Outlines Rubber Stamps Company has the best snowmen images...it was so hard for me to choose! I finally decided to go with the image "Star Light, Star Bright" (H-1123). I stamped it with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. It is colored with Copic markers, and some glitter highlights were added with Crystal Stickles. Fresh fallen "snow" was added using Polar White Flower Soft.

The sentiment "May the..." (C-1136) is also from Outlines and was stamped with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock.

The image, sentiment and card panel were all framed with red cardstock. In some instances, a corner rounder punch was used. The white card panel is simply a texturized piece of white cardstock.

Small snowflake charms from Dress It Up were used to complete this card, along with Flower Soft adhered along the bottom of the entire card.

There is a blizzard of gorgeous creations on the blogs of the Design Team this week. Be sure to visit:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

So glad you had the chance to visit my blog today. Have a wonderful week!

Sparkling Partridge in a Pear Tree

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

It's Monday! Time for another challenge from the Outlines Challenge Blog! This week the challenge is to "Make It Sparkle" by using metallic papers and Swarovski Crystals. Make sure you play along with us this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company.

For my project this week, I chose to ink up the gorgeous Outlines image of "Partridge" (I-989). I used Marvy Black dye ink to stamp the image onto Curious Metallics Cryogen cardstock. This particular paper has a subtle sparkle to it. I colored the image with Copic markers.

I applied Swarovski crystals (Clear Size 9 and Crystal AB Size 7) to the image. I also added some Crystal Stickles to the pears.

The image is framed with shimmery gold cardstock and patterned paper from Hot Off the Press. I sprayed the patterned paper with some Sparkle Sheer Shimmer Spritz from Tsukineko for some more faint sparkle. The image panel is raised with Pop Dots, and metallic gold ribbon complete the card.

The blogs of the Outlines Design Team are just glistening this week. Don't miss visiting:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

So glad you had the chance to visit my blog today. Keep calm and SPARKLE on!

Stampin Sisterhood, Christmas Cactus

2011-12-11T09:55:00.001-05:00

It's Sunday! Make sure you head over to the Rubbernecker Stampin Sisterhood blog for this week's challenge. Remember, if you play along, you will have chance to win a FREE STAMP from Rubbernecker and be queened Sunday Sister. And, at the end of each month, all the month's Sunday Sisters will be put in a random drawing to win a STAMP SET from Rubbernecker Stamps!

For this week's challenge, we were given an inspiration photo:

With all of those Christmas tree lights, I couldn't help but break out one of my favorite Rubbernecker images, Desert Cactus (SKU:227-04), and make it more Christmas-like. I stamped the stained glass image with Marvy black dye ink onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers. To create some dimension, I then stamped the image again, in order to color and cut around the cactus portion of the stamp. I then pop-dotted the cactus onto the scene. I added "presents" along the ground by stamping the image onto scraps of patterned paper from The Paper Studio and Bo Bunny, and cut out pieces from the border of the stamp, and arranged them to appear like presents. Bows of Baker's Twine and gold metallic cord were added to the tops of the presents.

I drew a Santa hat for the top of the cactus with a Memento Tuxedo black marker, and colored it with Copic markers. Some Polar White Flower Soft was added for the white fuzz on the hat. An elaborate, bendable sticker from Jolee's Boutique from EK Success was added around the cactus.

The scene was frame with patterned paper from Hot Off the Press, Bo Bunny and The Paper Studio provide the framed layers on this card.

Thanks so much for stopping by my blog today during this busy time of the year. I appreciate it very much.

Tag, You're It!

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

It's Monday! Time for another challenge from the Outlines Challenge Blog! This week the challenge is to make a tag or two using Outlines images that could be used on holiday presents. Make sure you play along with us this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company.

I was able to make two tags for this challenge. Both were made using the Outlines images of "Wavy Poinsettia Large" (I-981), "Wavy Poinsettia Medium" (H-982), "Wavy Poinsettia Small" (E-983) and the sentiments from "Posy Winter Greetings" (F-1124). I stamped all with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I added color with Copic markers. The largest poinsettia was actually colored green for the poinsettia leaves, and the small and medium poinsettia images were used for the actual petals of the poinsettias. I did do some highlighting with a white gel pen and added some shimmer with some Pebbles Pearlescent Shimmer Chalks. I cut around the images. Some Stickles were added to the center of the flower.

Patterned paper from My Minds Eye was cut by the Cricut into tags using the George and Basic Shapes cartridge. Lace, sheer ribbon, and gold ribbon were added to the tags for the finishing touches. I paper pierced around one of the tags, and faux stitched with a white gel pen.

Make sure to visit the blogs of the design team to get some great ideas for gift tags.

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

So glad you had the chance to visit my blog today. Have a terrific week!

Hang It Up!

2011-11-28T05:00:00.002-05:00

It's Monday! Time for another challenge from the Outlines Challenge Blog! This week the challenge is to make an ornament for the tree or wall hanging. Play along with us this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company.

For my project, I used a clear plastic ornament that I purchased from Michaels (less than $2 with a coupon). I stamped the Outlines image of "Sparkle Sleigh" (F-817) with Marvy black dye onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers, and added a few sparkling touches with a clear Stardust pen. I cut around the image using a circle Nestabilities die.

Then carefully, I rolled the circle panel and stuck it into the plastic ornament casing. Then, it unfolded itself. I added some mica flake glitter along the bottom, and a sheer white bow as the hanger. This project was surprisingly very easy and I really like the results. I don't know why I was sweating this particular challenge.

Make sure to visit the blogs of the design team. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

So glad you had the chance to visit my blog today. Have a terrific week!

Stampin Sisterhood, Hot Diggity!

2011-11-27T09:55:00.001-05:00

Sundays are a very special day over on the Rubbernecker Stampin Sisterhood blog. Each and every Sunday, Sisterhood Challenges are issued. Participate for your chance go win a FREE STAMP from Rubbernecker and be queened Sunday Sister. At the end of each month, all the month's Sunday Sisters will be put in a random drawing to win a STAMP SET from Rubbernecker!

This week, we have a sketch challenge.

For my card, I flipped the sketch. I stamped the Rubbernecker image of "Dog" (SKU: 569-18) with Marvy black dye onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers and cut around the image.

I then used my Cricut and cut the bag of bones and bone using the cartridge of "Paper Pups" from black and white cardstock, and patterned paper from Bo Bunny. I added some Baker's Twine to the bag.

For the card's panel, I paper pierced around patterned paper from the Paper Studio, and framed it with black cardstock, and patterned paper from Bo Bunny.

I used three little dog paw brads in the upper corner, and stamped the Rubbernecker sentiment of "Hot Diggity" (SKU: 568-11) with Versafine Onyx black.

Thank you for visiting my blog today. I hope you get a change to play along in the Stampin Sister Challenge this week. For more design team inspiration, and for further details, make sure you visit our Stampin Sisterhood Blog.

Black Friday Puppy

2011-11-26T16:30:00.001-05:00

I was delighted to have the chance to play along in this week's Free For All Challenge on Splitcoast, F4A92. The challenge was to make a winter/holiday card showcasing the color black, in honor of Black Friday. (Sorry I am a day late in posting this...and no, I wasn't out in the crowds. I had way more fun stamping).

I immediately thought of this adorable detailed stamp from Hampton Arts called "Holiday Puppy". Sadly, it had never seen ink until this card, even though it has been in my possession almost five years (I purchased it at a stamp store in Sedona, AZ - now closed).

I stamped the image with Versafine Onyx Black pigment ink onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock. I colored the hat with Prismacolor pencils, and added Flower Soft to the furry parts of the hat as well.

I framed the white panels with black cardstock. The sentiment is computer-generated. A sheer black ribbon, and a black dog paw brad complete the card.

I'm grateful for this challenge, because this cute little puppy needed to be inked. Thanks so much for stopping by my blog today.

Tomorrow We Diet

2011-11-25T14:55:00.007-05:00

I started this card yesterday, and worked on it before and after the Thanksgiving meal from my parents. I just finished it this morning. Thought I would share now...because it is still relevant, right? I mean, there are still leftovers to get through. The diet can start when those are gone. Or, who are we kidding with the upcoming month ahead? Perhaps on January 1st.

I stamped the Rubbernecker image of "Ethel w/Chicken" (SKU:562-01) with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers. I then cut the image panel with a Nestabilities circle die using the out-of-box technique. I then added some details to the image by paper piercing, putting Polar White Flower Soft on Ethel's slippers, and adding a coat of Judi*kins Diamond glaze on the poultry and Ethel's glasses. I framed the image with a Nestabilities scalloped circle die cut from brown cardstock.

Patterned paper from Crate Paper was paper pierced and dry embossed with a Sizzix folder, and brown cardstock frames the panel. A strip of patterned paper (unknown source...it was a scrap) was placed across the bigger panel. The sentiment is also from Rubbernecker and is called "Diet" (SKU:564-03). It was stamped using Versafine Onxy Black onto a scrap of yellow cardstock. I added some Baker's Twine to the top of the sentiment panel.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today. On tomorrow's menu: Wolverine Stew! (I hope)

Beary Christmas

2011-11-22T00:05:00.007-05:00

I was beyond flattered when Kaye Winiecki contacted me, asking me if I would join her design team and make a few cards using her new digital stamps. Hello?! Of course!!

For my first project, I decided to use her irresistibly cute new digital stamp called "Beary Christmas". This is available through The Lily Pad.

I printed the bear image onto X-Press It cardstock and colored it with Copic markers. Polar White Flower Soft was added onto the hat. I cut around the image. I decided he needed a little snow scene to be in, so with that decision, came some white cardstock tearing for the snow on the ground (highlighted with Stickles). I placed the snow-covered ground onto a piece of patterned paper from Me and My Big Ideas. I then framed the panel with black and white cardstock.

The sentiment is from Whipper Snapper Designs (Anna Wight's "Got Mistletoe?" Cling Set), and was stamped directly onto the patterned paper with Versafine Onyx Black pigment ink. A sheer white ribbon completes the card.

Thanks so much for stopping by my blog today. I am now looking at FIVE DAYS off, so you know some stamping is going to happen during that time. I hope you'll visit again soon to see what I accomplished during my break.

Gift Card Holder

2011-11-21T05:00:00.004-05:00

It's Monday! Time for another challenge from the Outlines Challenge Blog! This week the challenge is to make a gift card holder. Play along with us this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company. You might as well have a gift card holder ready, should you be the lucky one who wins, LOL!

I am rather challenged when it comes to making anything other than a card. Scoring, cutting, measuring are not my forte that's for sure. So, I was delighted and relieved to be able to use the Outlines image "Gift Card Holder -Kid" (I-921), which makes gift card holders SO EASY! To make the three layers of the gift card holder, all I did was stamp the entire image three times with Marvy black dye ink onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock. Then, following the wonderful step-by-step gift holder tutorial found on the Outlines site, I was able to construct my project with a few cuts and glue. I colored the different layers using Copic markers, and added some highlights with Stickles.

I placed the gift card holder on a panel of patterned paper from Doodlebug Design, and placed a bow on the corner of the card.

No doubt, this is the season for gift cards so make sure you visit the other members of the design team for more great ideas:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

So glad you had the chance to visit my blog today. Have a terrific week!

Orange Roses

2011-11-19T18:05:00.005-05:00

A little over a month ago, I attended a funeral for my friend's dad. As I looked at all of the flower arrangements on display, I was quite taken with a gorgeous vase of orange roses. They were absolutely stunning.

I decided to try and capture the beauty of these flowers with this stained glass image of roses from Rubbernecker, called "Rose"(SKU:223-03). I stamped the image with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock, light yellow cardstock, and a rusty orange cardstock. I colored the roses with Copic markers, and then cut around the roses with my Cutter-bee scissors. I placed them onto the other stamped cardstocks. I then framed the image with a piece of patterned paper from Bo Bunny and with the warm colored cardstocks.

The sentiment "Thinking of You" (SKU:565-10) is also from Rubbernecker. Gold brads and sheer gold ribbon complete this card.

Thanks for stopping by my blog today. I appreciate it.

Thanksgiving Blessings

2011-11-14T05:00:00.005-05:00

***If you are looking for the Rubbernecker Holiday Hop...just click here.

It's Monday! Time for another challenge from the Outlines Challenge Blog! Thanksgiving is next Thursday here in the US, and this week we are using Thanksgiving as our challenge theme. Play along with us this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from theOutlines Rubber Stamp Company.

For my card this week, I used one of the new Serendipity images from Outlines, Cinderella Mini (F-1205). I stamped the image onto X-Press It cardstock with Marvy black dye ink. I colored the image with Copic markers and added some highlights with Coloursoft pencils. I cut the image panel with a Nestabilities die, and did some paper piercing around the die cut shape.

Then using patterned paper from We R Memory Keepers and Heidi Grace Designs, I formed the layout for this card. Paper piercing was done around the larger We R Memory Keepers panel, and the strip of Heidi Grace paper was run dry embossed with a Sizzix folder. The card was framed with brown cardstock.

Sheer brown ribbon and lace were added to the card, as well as a leaf cut from brown cardstock using the Cricut cartridge, "Elegant Edges".

The sentiment is also from Outlines. It is a portion of the Split Layering Collage - Blessings (H-794). It was colored with Copic markers.

Along with my health and family, I am grateful to have the chance to be on such a talented and kind Outlines Design Team. Go and see what wonderful creations they have to share.

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

And, I am thankful you took time today to visit my blog. Have a terrific week!

Rubbernecker Holiday Hop!

2011-11-13T09:55:00.000-05:00

Hello Rubbernecker Sisters!! HOP day has arrived!! The Stampin’ Sisterhood has LOTS to share today!! Thank you SO much for joining us!

We all thought it would be a GREAT idea to share some of our HOLIDAY images!! SO, sit back and ENJOY!!! Hey, if you leave some LOVE at EVERY stop along the way, you will be entered into a RANDOM drawing for your choice of ONE Rubbernecker Stamps SET!! Yes, you read right!! A SET, not a single!! Now, how AWESOME is that?! Mr. Rubbernecker wants YOU to be able to choose, so you will LOVE what you get!! BRILLIANT!! OK, we know that you are busy, so you will have until THURSDAY 11/17 to HOP! Our WINNER will be announced on the RUBBERNECKER BLOG, on FRIDAY 11/18!!

OH, and if you want to join in the sharing? We have a BIT of exciting news to share!! We will be starting some AWESOME Rubbernecker challenges on SUNDAY 11/20!! Hope you will join us for SISTERHOOD SUNDAYS!! We are going to have a BLAST!! Who knows? You could win a prize on SUNDAYS too!!! Thanks again for stopping by, better get HOPPING!!!

Bev Gerard
Charlene Driggs
Charlene Merrick
Frances Gumprecht
Holly McMillen
Jacquie Peifer
Jen Charboneau
Jennifer Cuthbertson
Joan Ervin
Judy Rozema
Juliana Swanson
Julia Aston
Karen Hunsaker
Kecia Waters {you are here}
Kittie Caracciolo
Maria Gurnsey
Rubbernecker Stamps

For my card, I used the Rubbernecker snowman image called "Blake" (SKU:593-01) from the 2011 Winter Holiday Collection. I stamped it Marvy black dye onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers and cut it out with my Cutter-bee scissors.

Then, on a piece of white cardstock, I brayered Vivid Bermuda Blue, Adirondack Sail Boat Blue and Adirondack Stonewashed dye inks to make the winter sky. I added some white dots for snow with a white gel pen. I then tore some white cardstock to make the ground, highlighted with Stickles for some glistening.

I place the snowman onto the winter scene. I added a shadow with a Copic marker, and then stamped Blake again on some light yellowish-beige cardstock to paper piece the sign. With a Memento Tuxedo Black marker, I wrote "Happy Freezin' Season". I like that the image allows you to stamp or hand write whatever sentiment you like on the sign.

A sheer white ribbon and a snowflake brad complete the card. It is framed with black and white cardstock.

Sunflower Scraps

2011-11-08T05:30:00.002-05:00

I had some scraps lying around after yesterday's card, and couldn't bear to throw even those few sunflower petals away. So, I made a CAS card using the scraps. And, I really like how it turned out.

The partial sunflower image is from Outlines Rubber Stamp Company. It was stamped with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the sunflower with Copic markers and cut around the petals with my Cutter-bee scissors.

The blue panel was sponged with Distress Ink Tumbled Glass and Adirondack Sailboat Blue. I then framed this panel with a black piece of cardstock, and placed onto a white card base, also framed in black.

The sentiment is from My Favorite Things and was stamped using Versafine Onyx Black ink.

Here's hoping all of you have a little sunshine in your day today. Thanks for stopping by my blog.

Inspiration Sun

2011-11-07T05:00:00.003-05:00

It's Monday! Time for another challenge from the Outlines Challenge Blog! This week, the challenge is to use the following photograph as inspiration in your project:

Play along with us this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from Outlines Rubber Stamp Company. What more inspiration do you need than that?!!!

As I looked at the inspiration photo, my eyes were drawn to the sun. I then thought of one of my favorite floral images from Outlines, the "Sunflower" (H-81). To me the petals on this image look like rays of sunshine. I stamped the sunflower twice with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored both sunflowers with Copic markers and cut around both images. I cut off about a 1/3 of both flowers, because I knew I wanted the sunflower to appear like it could be rising in the sky, like a sun. I joined the two sunflower images together and pushed a few petals on the top flower forward to provide the flower with dimension.

I created a panel for the card using a piece of patterned paper (sorry, source unknown...it was a scrap), and framed it with green and creme cardstock. I paper pierced around the patterned paper panel and used a punch to round the corners. A light brown colored pencil provides the faux stitching.

I used a Cuttlebug die to cut the sentiment tag, and did some sponging with Distress Ink Wild Honey. The sentiment was made using a portion of the image "Gift Card Holder-Kid" (I-921). This was done by only inking the sentiment with a Tuxedo Black Memento marker.

The finishing touches to this card include, a see-through brown tinted button, Honeydew Chartreuse Green Baker's Twine. The three orange brads were also inspired from the inspiration photo, as my eyes were also drawn to the drawer knobs.

Hope you take a peek at the other inspired projects made by the design team. As always, you won't be disappointed.

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Thanks for stopping by my blog today! Have a great week!

Something to Crow About

2011-10-31T05:00:00.003-04:00

It's Monday! This week's challenge from the Outlines Challenge Blog has us making creations with the theme "Friendly Fliers". Outlines has such wonderful images, and when I saw this cute little crow sitting on the scarecrow's arm, I knew I had to make him my "Friendly Flier". Especially, since today is Halloween. Seemed perfect. I hope you join in on this fun challenge this week. You can win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company if you do.

I stamped the image called "Scarecrow" (G-1098) onto X-Press It cardstock using Marvy black dye ink. I colored the image with Copic markers. Some paper piecing of the scarecrow's shirt was done using a piece of Lasting Impressions cardstock. A few highlights using an atyouSpica glitter pen was used also on the image.

Patterned paper from K & Company and Lasting Impressions make up the panels of this card, along with black cardstock. The larger panel was cut using the Cricut cartridge "Elegant Edges", thus making the crow in the corner, and the fancy edge. The crow's eye is simply made with a hole punch and a Memento Tuxedo black marker, his beak is a scrap of the Lasting Impressions patterned paper.

Using the Memento Tuxedo black marker, I drew some hand-stitching around the some of the panels. A black button completes the card, tied with mandarin orange Baker's Twine.

To me, this card looks a little "folk art-ish" with the black crows. Thanks for stopping by my blog today.

Make sure you visit the blogs of the design team to see some more friendly fliers.

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

A Very Scary Dragon

2011-10-30T07:00:00.002-04:00

Isn't this little dragon the scariest? I mean...cutest? Not so scary, but oh so cute.

This image is from Rubbernecker Stamps. It is called "Dragon Boy" (SKU-474-02).

I stamped the image with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers and cut around the image with my Cutter-bee scissors.

For the layout of the card, I used patterned paper from K & Company and black cardstock. Nestabilities dies made the inverted scalloped circle, and the inner circle was sponged with SeaShells Peach Bellini and Distress Ink Wild Honey dye inks. The sentiment is actually cut from patterned paper from K & Company, with a little Stickles added to "scary". Paper piercing and sheer black ribbon complete the details on this card.

Thanks for dropping by my blog today. A Happy Halloween to you. May your day be filled with treats!

Fly By

2011-10-27T23:24:00.010-04:00

A "fly by" post, if you will.

I wanted to share with you a Halloween card I made using some images from Rubbernecker Stamps.

First, before stamping anything, I brayered the following dye inks onto a piece of Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock: SeaShells Seashell Pink, Vivid Raspberry, and Vivid Lavender, using a punched circle from a Post-It note to mask an area for the moon. Once brayered in pinks/purples, I used the negative of the Post-It note circle to sponge some SeaShells Conch Shell and Adirondack Sunshine Yellow dye inks to make the moon.

Then, I stamped "Witch Silhouette" (SKU:473-04) and sentiment from Halloween Set 1 (SKU:473), both from Rubbernecker, with Versafine Black Onyx Pigment ink. I framed the sky panel with black cardstock. Then, I placed the panel onto some white cardstock and stamped a tree from Rubbernecker's Kittie's Kit "Fall Harvest" (KKCS: S009)also using the Versafine Black Onyx. The card was then framed with black cardstock.

A sheer black ribbon puts the finishing touches on this card.

I'm sure the upcoming weekend will just "fly by" as it always does. Enjoy it.

Pretty in Pink

2011-10-24T05:00:00.002-04:00

It's Monday. This week, the Outlines Challenge Blog is challenging us to use the color pink in our creations. I hope you have the change to play along because one lucky participant will win a $25 gift certificate from Outlines Rubber Stamps. Who wouldn't be tickled pink with that?!

Since it is October and I'm thinking about the color of pink, my mind immediately went to Breast Cancer Awareness. I stamped "Support Bird" (F-1118) from Outlines Rubber Stamps onto X-Press It cardstock using Marvy black dye ink, two times so I could achieve some dimension on the bird's wing and the support ribbon. I colored the image with Copic markers. Some accents of Stickles and pearls from an Ice White Viva Pearl Pen were added. I cut around the image with my Cutterbee scissors. The wing and the support ribbon were raised using Pop-Dots.

The sentiment is also from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company. It is from "Posy Winter Greetings" (F-1124). It too is stamped with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored it with Copic markers. Some Stickle highlights were added. I thought the "Believe" sentiment went well with the main image.

Nestabilities dies were used to cut the circle and the lacey circle, using pink cardstock and patterned paper (unknown source, sorry...it was a scrap). I paper pierced around the circle. The large square panel is patterned paper from 7 Gypsies, and it too was paper pierced and framed using pink cardstock.

A sheer white ribbon puts the finishing touches on the card.

Make sure you go see the AMAZING creations of the Outlines Design Team. They are delightful, as always.

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

I sure hope you can play along with us this week. Thanks so much for visiting my blog today!

Edna's Morning

2011-10-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

Did you know that Rubbernecker Stamps has a blog? It is updated daily with interesting projects, challenges, contests, etc.

A couple weeks ago I was honored to submit a post for the weekly "Tuesdays with the Team". You can visit it here.

I thought I would share the card I made for the post, just in case you missed it on the Rubbernecker.

I made this card using the Rubbernecker Stamp "Edna's Morning" (SKU 562-06), from the Rubbernecker Old Character line. I stamped the image onto Neenah Classic Crest Cardstock with Marvy black dye ink. I paper pieced Edna's robe and socks with patterned paper from Doodlebug Designs, shaded with Prismacolor pencils and ColourSoft pencils. Her fuzzy slippers were created using FlowerSoft Polar White. I colored the rest of the image with Copic markers, and drew in the floor and walls. The image is then mounted onto a panels of white cardstock, and patterned paper from Doodlebug Designs and Lasting Impressions. Some of the panels are paper pierced.

The sentiment is also from Rubbernecker. It is called "bad as I look" (SKU 563-04).

A brass circle clip and sheer white ribbon put the finishing touches onto this card.

Thank you so much for visiting my blog today...and, I hope you go see Rubbernecker's Blog too.

Birthday Bash

2011-10-17T05:00:00.004-04:00

It's Monday! Time for another challenge from the Outlines Challenge Blog. This week the focus is birthdays. Play along with us for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company!

I had a rather stressful week, so I spent the weekend coloring as a way to relax. So much so, I colored two of Outlines Split Layering Collages, "Birthday" (I-1065) and "Enjoy" (I-1066). I decided to join them together to make one card. I stamped the collages onto X-Press It cardstock using Marvy black dye ink. I colored the images with Copic markers. Some glitter highlights were made using an atyouSpica pen, Sakura glitter pen and Stickles. The collages were framed using black cardstock and patterned paper from Recollections. A curl cascade was added to the card to make it even more festive.

I hope you go see what the other members of the design team made for this week. You won't be disappointed.

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Thanks for visiting my blog today. Have a great week! And should you find yourself a little stressed...then simply color! It works wonders!

Rubbernecker Fall/Halloween Hop

2011-10-16T09:55:00.004-04:00

Hi Rubbernecker friends!! Welcome to our Fall/Halloween hop! Thanks so much for joining us! Rubbernecker Stamps has such a wide variety of images, that we thought we would share some Fall and Halloween ones with you! There is a HOP ROUTE for you to follow below! You will find it right before the creation I have to share today!! AND? So you won’t get lost, EACH Sister will have this list for you, to help you on your journey!! Make sure to leave some LOVE at every stop, for you will want to be eligible for our PRIZE!! What fun would it be without a PRIZE!!

***You could WIN……………….
Your choice of one of these AWESOME stamp sets!!

Halloween Set 1

Halloween Set 2

Halloween Set 3

Cats Set

Cool huh? OK, the Stampin’ Sisterhood has lots of creations to share with you, so grab a cuppa something, sit back, relax and get HOPPIN’!! Be on the look out for our NEXT HOP coming NEXT MONTH!! We look forward to seeing you then for MORE sharing and prizes!! Thanks again for joining us today and ENJOY!!

• Bev Gerard
• Charlene Driggs
• Charlene Merrick
• Frances Gumprecht
• Holly McMillen
• Jacquie Peifer
• Jen Charboneau
• Jennifer Cuthbertson
• Joan Ervin
• Judy Rozema
• Julia Aston
• Karen Hunsaker
• Kecia Waters (that's me)
• Kittie Caracciolo
• Maria Gurnsey
• Rubbernecker Stamps

For my card, I actually dusted off my brayer. I brayered SeaShells Cool Peri dye ink and Wisteria ColorBox chalk ink onto Cryogen white cardstock. I then sponged just a little Vivid! Lavender dye ink onto the cardstock as well. I stamped "Sleepy Hollow Tree" (SKU:590) onto the cardstock using Versafine Onyx Black Pigment ink. I also stamped the cluster of bats from "Halloween Set 1" (SKU:473) three times onto the scene, also using Versafine Onyx Black pigment ink. I added some white stars into the sky using a white gel pen. Then, on X-Press It cardstock, I stamped Ghost Boy"(SKU:474-02)" with Marvy black dye ink and colored with Copic markers. I cut around the image and placed it into my spooky scene. I then framed the scene with white and black cardstock, along with a piece of sanded Core'dinations cardstock that was dry embossed with a Sizzix folder. A sheer white ribbon was tied around the scene to complete the card.

Swimming For Katie Renz Blog Hop

2011-10-12T00:01:00.007-04:00

I am honored to be a part of this 3 Day Blog Hop. Cancer truly needs to be eradicated. Far too many are impacted every day by this terrible disease.

From October 10-12 some of the best stampers are joining together to support and encourage our friend and fellow stamper, Katie Renz, who is currently battling inoperable gastric cancer. If you're not familiar with her, Katie’s cancer story started just before Christmas last year. This young, beautiful, healthy, vibrant mother of 3 with her infectious smile was suddenly diagnosed with an inoperable cancer, virtually overnight. A few tummy aches and then stage 4 gastric cancer. Her first post about it is here. The idea of “Swimming for Katie” came from her recent post here.

This exclusive stamp used in my sample, designed by Becky Oehlers is available as a clear stamp, as well as a digis or a dig and SVG cut file. 100% of the profits go to Katie's fund to help her and her young family. Her husband Kevin and her three young children need our help and support. In addition to the Keep Swimming Octopus, Marianne Walker and True =D Doodle Designs both also donated digis that are for sale. Direct donations are also being accepted. Information central is HERE. This is a permanent page that will stay active at i {heart} papers with current information and the full 3 day blog hop listing, as well as the donation button.

Here are all of the items available for sale.

I hope you will join me in supporting Katie through a purchase or donation. The following is a list of everyone who has projects posted today. I hope you will be inspired by them and moved to purchase or donate. Thank you!

Amy Heller
Jackie Pedro
Julie Masse
Kecia Waters (you are here)
Sandie Dunne
Susan Liles
Latisha Yoast
Laurie Schmidlin
Lisa Arana
Lisa Henke
Lisa Silver
Lydia Fiedler
Lyn Bernatovich
Lynette
Maria Gurnsey
Meg Craig
Melissa Bickford
Michelle Woerner
Mona Pendleton
Niki Estes
Robyn Weatherspoon
Sarah Jay
Sarah Martina Parker
Savannah O'Gwynn
Stephanie Washburn
Susanna Boyd
Tobi Crawford
Julie Lacey
Kim Kesti
Shemaine Smith
Danielle Lounds
Debbie Carriere
DoBea A.
Fran Gumprecht
Geny Cassady
Gina K.
Holly McMillen
Jak Heath
Javablustamper/Jacquie
Kimberly Crawford
Jeanne Streiff
Trudy Sjolander

Apple Basket

2011-10-10T05:00:00.002-04:00

It's Monday! Time for another challenge from the Outlines Challenge Blog. And, it could very well feel deja vu, because we are keeping last week's theme of Fall/Halloween for this week's challenge. And why not? With all of the great autumn images Outlines has to offer, it makes total sense. Make sure you play along with us this week for the chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company.

I am excited to share with you today a card I made using one of Outlines' new Fall Serendipity images, Apple Basket (I-1197). I stamped the lovely image with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored it with Copic markers. (Oh, it is a fun image to color!). I then framed the image panel with black cardstock.

Being such a great image, I wanted the image to do most of the work on this card so the layout was kept quite simple. The large panel of the card is from Hot Off the Press patterned paper. It too is framed with black cardstock. An off-white ribbon and three brads provide the only extra embellishments on this card.

Here's wishing you a great week! Thanks so much for stopping by my blog!

For more wonderful Fall/Halloween projects using Outlines' wonderful images, make sure to visit the blogs of the other design team members:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

CAS Mummy

2011-10-04T21:32:00.006-04:00

I had the chance to play along with this week's CAS challenge on Splitcoast, CAS138. It was a sketch challenge.

I stamped the Rubbernecker image of "Mummy"(SKU:474-01) onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored it with Copic markers. I then proceeded to cut around the image.

For the layout, I used a large panel of kraft and framed it with black cardstock. I then pieced together pieces of Post-It Labeling and Cover-Tape (affectionately called "Boo-boo" tape in elementary schools). Slight shading of the tape was done by sponging SeaShells Sandal dye ink and by touch-ups from Copic markers. This strip was adhered to the card panel in hopes of looking like Mummy tape. I then Pop-dotted the mummy onto the strip.

The sentiment is computer-generated. A clear button with Baker's Twine put the finishing touches on this card.

CAS cards are challenging for me, so I hope I was able to somehow pull this off. I guess that's why they call it a challenge.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today.

Bubbling Up

2011-10-03T05:00:00.002-04:00

It's Monday! And with every Monday, a new Outlines Challenge is issued. This week, the challenge is to make a Halloween/Fall project. (And because there are so many wonderful Halloween/Fall images available from Outlines that will be next week's theme as well). Each week, you will have a chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company. Make sure you join in on this season's fun!

This week, I chose to use "Witchy Dog" (G-1103) from Outlines. (I knew if I didn't, my Sloopy would get all witchy on me). I stamped the image onto X-Press It cardstock using Marvy black dye ink. Then using the out-of-the-box technique, I cut around the image with a circle Nestabilities die. I colored the image with Copic markers, and added a little sparkle on the bubbles using a Sakura glitter pen. I paper pierced around the circled paper, and then sponged around the edges using SeaShells Conch Shell dye. I framed the image with a Nestabilities cut black circle, in hopes that the image panel would take on the look of a bubble.

Then, I proceeded to make other "bubbles" using black and white cardstock and varies sizes of Nestabilities circle dies. I paper pierced each bubble.

I placed the "bubbles" onto a large panel of Core'dinations cardstock that had been dry embossed with a Cuttlebug folder and sanded. A strip of Bo Bunny patterned paper was also used. I paper pierced around the large card panel and framed with black cardstock.

A small bow of Baker's Twin was adhered to one of the "bubbles".

Some spectacular Halloween/Fall projects have bubbled up on the blogs of the design team. Don't miss them.

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Special thanks for visiting my blog today! Make it a great one!

Lost

2011-10-01T20:53:00.006-04:00

So glad I stayed home and celebrated "World Card Making Day" rather than go to the 'Shoe and witness a team that is truly LOST in every sense of the word.

I made this card today using Rubbernecker's new "Sleepy Hollow Tree" (SKU:590) from the brand new Halloween release. However, rather than a Halloween card, I teamed it with the Rubbernecker image of "Ethel Nailing" (SKU:562-04) and sentiment "Reward for Dog" (SKU:563-11), both from the Old Characters series.

On Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock, I stamped Ethel using Marvy black dye ink. I colored her with Copic markers and paper-pieced her shirt with a scrap of patterned paper (sorry, source unknown). I then cut around Ethel using my Cutter-bee scissors.

On another sheet of Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock, I sponged clouds using SeaShells Cloudy Blue dye ink. I then, stamped the tree by coloring Tombow markers directly to the rubber. I also used colored pencils to add more color to the bark and grass. Additional blades of grass were drawn in using Tombow markers. I placed Ethel into the scene, and added the small missing sign, which was drawn.

The scene was framed with white and blue cardstock.

Finally, I stamped the hilarious sentiment into the scene using Marvy black dye. (Disclaimer about the sentiment: should my husband and dog be missing simultaneously, an equal reward would be offered for their safe return).

And, at this point, I think a reward is warranted for the return of the Ohio State offense.

Kiyana

2011-09-27T22:19:00.006-04:00

Special thanks for visiting my blog today! I wanted to take this opportunity to share with you a card I made using the image "Kiyana" from Rubbernecker's 2010 African American release.

I stamped Kiyana on X-Press It cardstock with Marvy black dye and colored her with Copic markers. I then proceeded to cut around the image using my Cutter-bee scissors. Then, with Google's help, found a line map of the continent Africa. I printed it onto X-Press It cardstock and sponged it with the following dye inks: Adirondack Sunshine Yellow, Adirondack Butterscotch, Adirondack Sunset Orange, and Distress Ink Fire Brick. I cut around the image also with my Cutter-bee scissors.

The sentiment is also from Rubbernecker Stamps, the 2011 release of Old Characters. It was stamped directly onto Africa using Versafine Onyx Black.

The images were then arranged onto a piece of beige textured cardstock. I paper pierced around this panel, and then framed it with black and light brown cardstock. An orange rhinestone completes the card, which was placed onto Africa.

Sunflower

2011-09-26T05:00:00.002-04:00

It's Monday! That means it is time for another challenge on the Outlines Challenge Blog. This week's challenge is to "Pick a Flower". The Outlines Rubber Stamp Company has so many beautiful floral images, so make sure you play along this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from Outlines.

For my card this week, I chose to use Outlines sunflower (H-81) image. I stamped the flower twice onto X-Press It cardstock with Marvy black dye ink and then colored both flowers with Copic markers. I cut them both out carefully with my Cutter-bee scissors and then placed them on top of one another to add dimension. I added some brown Stickles and some dots of Tuxedo Smooch to the center of the flower.

Panels of patterned paper from Bo Bunny, Basic Grey and Hot Off the Press were cut and dry embossed using Cuttlebug embossing folders. I paper pierced these panels as well as frame them using black cardstock. I mounted the finished layout onto a card made of kraft cardstock. Three small black brads and some beige lace complete the details of this card.

The sentiment is also from Outlines. It is called Tiny You're In My Thoughts (AA-860). I stamped it onto a piece of kraft with Marvy black dye ink.

A huge bouquet of flowers can be seen from the design team this week. Make sure you visit:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today. I hope the sunflower brightened your day.

Limited Colors

2011-09-25T21:38:00.004-04:00

Over on the Copic website they are having a fun contest. The challenge is to color this image with no more than six Copics. I thought I would give it a try. I used only three Copics: E50, E33, and B52 on X-Press It cardstock.

Too fun! It just goes to show you that you don't need a lot of markers to color an image.

Witch Broom Burn Out

2011-09-24T00:00:00.002-04:00

As you know, Terry Medaris has some fabulous new Halloween images available. They are super fun to color, as are all of his wonderful images.

I'd like to share with you my latest Halloween card using the Terry Medaris image "Witch Broom Burn Out". I stamped the image with Stazon Jet Black onto Hewlett Packard Color Inkjet paper (24 Pound, Uncoated, 96-Plus Brightness). I colored the image with Prismacolor and Caran d'Ache color pencils. No gamsol. Just pencils.

I then proceeded to cut the image panel with a Nestabilities die. I paper pierced around the image panel, sponged it with SeaShells Peach Bellini dye ink, and framed it with black cardstock. Patterned paper from Heidi Grace Designs was used for the card base, framed also with black paper and paper pierced. The sentiment is a $1 from Studio G. A black bow and three black rhinestones put the finishing touches on this card.

Thanks for visiting my blog today! Enjoy your Saturday, and Go Buckeyes!

Desert Layers

2011-09-19T05:00:00.004-04:00

It's Monday! Time for another challenge on the Outlines Challenge Blog. This week the challenge is to use layers in your project. The Outlines Rubber Stamp Company has so many stamps that are ideal for stamping multiple times and then cutting and layering. Make sure you play along this week for your change to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company!

For my card this week, I layered paper, inks and images. First I cut an image panel from Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock with a Nestabilities die. I then layered the following dye inks onto the panel by sponging: SeaShells Conch Shell, Adirondack Sunshine Yellow, Adirondack Sunset Orange, and Distress Ink Fired Brick. This was to create the desert sky. Then I cut a piece of beige cardstock with the same Nestabilities die, tore and layered onto the sky panel to form the ground. I sponged the ground with Adirondack Latte dye ink and Vivid! Taupe dye ink.

I stamped the Outlines Split Layering Collage - Southwest (I-1060) two times onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock using Marvy dye black ink. I then proceeded to color and cut the adobe house, sun and gecko with Copic markers. I placed these images and pop-dotted them for dimension into the scene. I used a Prismacolor pencil for some ground shadowing by the adobe house. The gecko's eyes were colored with Tuxedo Smooch.

I then place this image panel onto a two layers of paper: a piece of patterned paper from The Paper Studio that was dry embossed with a Sizzix folder, framed by a piece of gold cardstock.

Be sure to visit the other members of the design team to see some beautiful Outlines creations with layers:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today. I hope you had a better weekend than The Ohio State Buckeyes. I think it is going to be a very long season.

Autumn Blessings

2011-09-12T05:00:00.002-04:00

It's Monday, so that means it is time for another Outlines Challenge. As the temperatures get cooler, and the days get shorter, it is time for us to turn our attention to all the autumn season brings. This week, the challenge is to create a card to usher in the new season that is upon us. Please play along with us for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company.

This week, I used the image of the Split Layering Collage "Blessings" (H-794) for my card's focal point. I stamped the collage with Marvy black dye ink onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar white cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers, and highlighted some portions of the image with brown Stickles and a lemon atyouSpica pen, to give a little sparkle to the collage.

I framed the collage with a scrap piece of patterned paper (I'm sorry...source unknown) and placed it upon a piece of patterned paper from Lasting Impressions. I tied a piece of Baker's Twine along the base of the card, and used a corner punch to round the bottom corners.

Autumn colors are so beautiful, don't you think? Be sure to visit the other members of the design team for some more autumn inspiration:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today!

Day Lilies

2011-09-11T09:54:00.004-04:00

As I post this, my heart and mind weighs heavily on the events of ten years ago.

I was able to play along this week and try the current sketch challenge on Splitcoast, SC349.

I stamped the day lilies image from Rubbernecker's 2011 Floral release onto X-Press It cardstock using Marvy dye black ink. I colored the day lilies using Copic markers, and then proceeded to cut around the image.

Patterned paper from Hot Off The Press and TK Whimsey & Company form the layers of this card, along with burnt orange cardstock to frame these layers. Some paper piercing was done around the patterned paper. A strip of light yellow cardstock was run through the Cuttlebug using a Sizzix embossing folder. It too is framed with the burnt orange cardstock. A ribbon and some burnt orange brads put the finishing touches on this card.

The sentiment is also from Rubbernecker Stamps.

I am grateful you stopped by my blog today.

Kitchen Came with the House

2011-09-06T07:05:00.001-04:00

Sadly, this card's sentiment rings so true. And, I'm guessing in a few years I might look like this too. So much to look forward to as we grow older.

I'm delighted to share this card with you. Nothing like having a three day weekend to fuel my stamping soul. I was so in need of a break from the fast pace of back-to-school!

The sentiment and image on this card both come from Rubbernecker Stamps. The lady is called "Edna in the Kitchen" and the sentiment is "came with the house", both from the 2011 Old Characters line. Paired together, they crack me up!

I stamped Edna onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock using Marvy black dye ink. I colored her with Copic markers and cut around her with my Cutter-bee scissors.

I used a Nestabilities circle die to cut a circle from a piece of Lasting Impressions cardstock. I stamped the sentiment onto the circle. I paper pierced around the circle. I also used a Nestabilities die to cut the scalloped circle from white cardstock.

The aqua piece of patterned paper (sorry, unknown source...it was a scrap) was dry embossed using a Cuttlebug embossing folder. I also paper pierced around the panel.

I place Edna onto the card, and for finishing touches, placed three white brads, with a Copic colored yellow center (to resemble eggs) and a small Baker's Twine bow onto the card.

Thanks for visiting my blog today, and sticking with me during my busiest time of year. Cooking? Who has time to cook right now?

Sloopy Rules

2011-09-05T05:00:00.004-04:00

As you can guess, when my dachshund Sloopy heard this week's Outlines Challenge was to incorporate a photograph into my project, well, let's just say that she insisted that it be a picture of her. She rules this house. Won't you play along too for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from Outlines Rubber Stamp Company? All the details can be found on the Outlines Challenge Blog.

I used one of my favorite photos of Sloopy to feature on this card. It is from three springs ago, when I took her for a walk at The Ohio State University. They always have the prettiest beds of tulips on campus, so I couldn't resist having a photo shoot.

I framed Sloopy's picture, and a portion of a picture of the tulip bed using the biggest and smallest frames from the Outlines stamp "Frames and Mats" (K-1195). These frames were simply made by stamping this image with Marvy black dye onto X-Press It cardstock and cutting.

I used a portion of Outlines "Split Layering Collage-Dog" (I-1063) by also stamping with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the collar and tag using Copic markers. Using Picksey Pick-Ups, I added some Swarovski crystals, Clear Size 9, to add a little touch of bling.

All frames were then arranged onto two layers of patterned paper from The Paper Studio. A white dog bone clip put the finishing touches on this card.

I cannot wait to see what photos my fellow design team members used this week. Isn't always fun to see real life pictures from your online stamping friends? Make sure to visit their blogs to see how they incorporated photos into their projects.

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today!

Trying to Stay Afloat

2011-08-29T05:00:00.001-04:00

I changed grade levels and buildings all within four days before starting school, so needless to say, I've been trying to stay afloat during what is always the hectic back-to-school season. With the idea of me trying to come up for air, the news of Hurricane Irene, and me trying to hang on to summer...seemed only appropriate to do one more summertime aquatic card.

The challenge this week on the Outlines Challenge Blog is "Beautiful Borders". Create a card by adding a decorative border or two, using a border punch or stamp and you could win a $25 gift certificate from Outlines Rubber Stamps. I hope you'll play along!

I immediately thought of incorporating my EKSuccess Bubble Border punch into my design. First, I stamped portions of the Split Layering Collage-Splash (H-796) onto X-Press It cardstock using Marvy black dye ink. I colored the images of the seahorse, oyster and kelp with Copic markers. I did some highlighting of the oyster and the seahorse using Moonlight Smooch. I cut these images with my Cutter-bee scissors.

With a Nestabilities circle die, I cut a circle of patterned paper from The Paper Studio. I also cut a circle of kraft, and tore along a 1/4 of the circle. With the small piece of torn kraft and the cirlcle of patterned paper from The Paper Studio, I formed the underwater scene. Some dots from Copic markers, atyouSpica pens, and a Sakura glitter pen, help make the sand sparkle. I then placed the images into the scene, pop-dotting the seahorse. I took my EKSuccess Bubble Border punch and punched a few bubbles along the edge of the circle. I then place a scalloped circle cut from white cardstock using a Nestabilities die underneath my underwater scene. Then, I took a larger piece of patterned paper, also from The Paper Studio, and created bubbles along the left hand side of the square using the border punch. I placed the scalloped scene onto the layer. A sheer white ribbon completes the card.

Make sure you visit the rest of the design team to see they've incorporated borders into their projects:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Until next time, chances are I'm going "border"line crazy. Things should be slowing down into a routine soon. Thank you so much for visiting my blog today!

Woof!

2011-08-22T05:00:00.006-04:00

It's Monday! Time for another challenge from the Outlines Blog. This week, the challenge is pay tribute to our four legged friends by using animal stamps from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company. Well, as soon as I told my dachshund Sloopy about the challenge, she insisted, of course, that I do something for dogs. Make sure you play along too this week, for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate from Outlines.

I decided to do a shape card for this challenge. With the Cricut cartridge, Paper Pups, I cut out the image of a bone and the shadow of a bone using patterned paper from Making Memories and off white/beige cardstock. I paper pierced the patterned paper.

I then stamped the "Split Layering Collage -Woof" (H-1064) with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the multiple images within the collage with Copic markers. To add some bling, using Picksey Pick-Ups, I added some Swarovski crystals, Clear Size 9, to the fire hydrant, the flower next to the doghouse, and around one of the dog collars.

I placed my collage onto the bone, added the sentiment "To err is human..." (B-1081), along with a sheer light brown ribbon, and dog paw embellishments.

Make sure to see what the rest of the design team created for this Four Legged Friends Challenge:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today. Sloopy says thanks too. "Woof!"

Beach Baby

2011-08-21T12:16:00.005-04:00

Here's another card I've been meaning to share. I made it a couple weeks ago. Kind of appropriate to share today...as this is the last day of my summer break, and I am already longing for a trip back to the beach. I report back to duty tomorrow in a different school teaching a different grade. Needless to say I am busy, busy, busy seeing as how I just found out about the change in assignment on Thursday. Eek!

The image used on this card is a digital image from The Stamping Boutique. It is called "Baby Boy on the Beach".

I printed the image onto X-Press It cardstock, and colored with Copic markers. Highlights of the water were made with a white gel pen. I cut around the oval, which is actually a part of the image.

A strip of patterned paper from Hot Off The Press was placed onto kraft. A small sun-like image was cut with a Cuttlebug die and adhered with a gold brad.

The sentiment is from My Favorite Things and was stamped using Versafine Onyx Black.

Thanks so much for visiting. I have a post scheduled for tomorrow, and some other cards in the making. Just know I must put my first graders first. Things are bound to settle soon. ;-)

Helika

2011-08-18T07:00:00.001-04:00

This is a card I made nearly two weeks ago for one of the Dare to Get Dirty challenges on Splitcoast, but haven't had a chance to share it yet on my blog. (Gee, that back-to-school stuff really gets in the way stamping and blogging).

To make this card, I stamped the image of Helika, from the 2010 Rubbernecker African American release with Marvy Black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored it with Copic markers, and then proceeded to cut around the image with my Cutter-bee scissors.

To make the sun, I sponged Adirondack Sunshine Yellow dye ink and Adirondack Butterscotch dye ink onto a circle that was cut using a Nestabilities die.

Patterned paper from Doodlebug Design and My Minds Eye were used to form the layout of this card, along with a pale yellow cardstock. I paper pierced around the layers, added gold sheer ribbon and some gold brads.

The sentiment is also from Rubbernecker Stamps, the 2011 release of Old Characters.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today. Stay tuned because I have a couple other cards just waiting to be shared, along with some new cards in progress.

Boo Shoes

2011-08-17T10:09:00.005-04:00

Some of the more fun cards to make are Halloween cards. The colors and images are right up my alley. This rings true especially for this card, where I used a new Halloween image from Terry Medaris Art Stamps. Have you seen his newest release? They are too fun!

This particular Terry Medaris image is called "Boo Shoes". I stamped it using Stazon Jet Black onto Hewlett Packard Color Inkjet paper (24 Pound, Uncoated, 96-Plus Brightness). I colored the image with Prismacolor pencils. I learned from Terry in one of his classes that such inkjet paper is an option for Prismacolor work, and it totally works fine when making cards if you layer the paper onto cardstock.

I cut the image panel using a Nestabilities die. I did some sponging around the panel using Distress Ink Wild Honey and did some paper piercing. I framed the panel with black cardstock. Patterned paper from Lasting Impressions and PJK Designs make up the layout of this card, along with black cardstock.

The sentiment is from My Favorite Things. Baker's Twine and orange rhinestones put the finishing touches on this card.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today. Your comments have been so "boo-tiful" lately and I want you to know they are much appreciated.

Summer Time is the Best Time

2011-08-15T05:00:00.002-04:00

We're soaking up the last few drops of summer! This week, Outlines Rubber Stamp Company is challenging us to create a card or project with a summer theme. The beach...florals...something with bright fun colors. Play along with us for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from Outlines. See all of the details on the Outlines blog.

For my card, I chose to use a layering collage from Outlines called "Split Layering Collage-Seaside"(I-795).(I love Outlines layering collages because you can use the entire stamp, or just isolate some of the images. Endless possibilities.) I cut a panel of Neenah Classic Crest Solar White with a Nestabilities die. Then, with a Memento Tuxedo Black marker, I carefully inked the image of the Adirondack chair and stamped it onto the panel. Then I simply drew a line for where the water meets the sand, and lightly with a pencil, drew the horizon line. I then colored my beach scene with Copic markers. I added a little sparkle in the sand with an atyouSpica pen, and put some highlights in the water using a white gel pen. Also, I used a touch of Flower Soft Polar White for the foam of the water.

Then I inked the beach ball/sand pail part of the collage with a Memento Tuxedo Black marker. I colored with Copic markers as well.

I used patterned paper from Jillibean Paper's Watermelon Gazpacho paper pad for the base of the card. I just love the bright orange text on text, along with the saying "Summer Time is the Best Time". I placed the beach scene onto the patterned paper, added the beach ball and pop-dotted the sand pail. An off-white ribbon complete the details on this card.

I am not happy that summer is coming to an end, so you can be sure I'm going to visit the blogs of the design team to soak in those last few drops of summer. You should too!

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Rubbernecker Scooter Kids & Friends Hop

2011-08-14T09:55:00.004-04:00

Welcome to our little HOP!! We are SO happy that you could join us in celebrating some NEW stamps! Mr. Rubbernecker released some SUPER cute images, on the down low, a few weeks back and we wanted to share them with you!! They are SO adorable that we just HAD to show them off! We have sweet SCOOTER KIDS, some new ANIMALS, and we even got some cute new FRIENDS!!! You can find them by visiting RUBBERNECKER STAMPS and clicking on the 2011 NEW RELEASES!! Hey, wait, there is MORE!! We also have something else to CELEBRATE!!! Our design team has a NEW name!! We are SO excited!! I bet you were wondering what was up with that!! Weren’t you?! We are NOW the……………………………...

Cool, huh? We are going to have SO much to share with you!! It will TRULY be a SISTERHOOD , for sure!!! OK now, a HOP would not be a HOP without a little PRIZE!! Right? Of course!! SO, in honor of our news AND our new images, if you visit ALL the participants and leave some LOVE... You will have the chance to WIN a $25 RUBBERNECKER STAMPS CERTIFICATE!!

WOW, more coolness!! Our winner will be announced on TUESDAY, so you will have plenty of time to hop! OK, better get HOPPIN’!! Thanks SO much for being a part of our excitement!! You will find the HOP ROUTE below my card details.

What's a hop without a bunny?

The bunny image and sentiment are from the 2011 Friends collection. I stamped the bunny onto a panel of X-Press It cardstock cut from a Nestabilities die. I masked the bunny, and then added clouds and grass with a sponge using the following dye inks: Distress Ink Tumbled Glass, SeaShells Cloudy Blue, Adirondack Willow, Adirondack Lettuce, and Adirondack Oregano. I stamped the bunny again, and colored with Copic markers before pop-dotting into the small scene. A touch of Polar White Flower Soft was added to the bunny's tail.

Patterned paper from My Minds Eye, Colorbok and Lasting Impressions provide the various layers for this card, framed by black cardstock. Some panels were texturized with Cuttlebug dry embossing folders, and paper piercing was done to the panels as well. The sentiment panel was cut with a Nestabilities die and then cut in half. A sheer black ribbon puts the finishing touch on this card.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today! Make it an AWESOME one!

Make sure to hop and visit all of my sisters to see their wonderful creations, and for your chance at a $25 gift certificate from Rubbernecker Stamps!

Charlene Merrick
Frances Gumprecht
Jacquie Peifer
Jen Charboneau
Joan Ervin
Judy Rozema
Julia Aston
Juliana Swanson
Kecia Waters (you are here!)
Kittie Caracciolo

To the Beach (and Back)

2011-08-09T01:28:00.005-04:00

Last week, my husband and I returned to our honeymoon destination for our first anniversary...Ocean Isle Beach, NC. It was an awesome "Part 2", and this week, I find myself missing the beach so much. I tell you, I would live there if I could figure out a way. But for now, beach images will have to do.

The image used on this card is a digital image from The Stamping Boutique. It is called "Beach Baby With a Hat".

I printed the image onto X-Press It cardstock and colored it with Copic markers. Highlights on the water were made with a white gel pen.

I framed the image with black cardstock and placed on an off-white card base.

Very CAS...I thought the image truly speaks for itself.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today. Hope the image was a little "escape" for you too.

Turtle Love

2011-08-08T05:00:00.002-04:00

It's Monday! How would you like to win a $25 gift certificate from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company ??!! All you have to do is get out your lace and incorporate it into your project for the Outlines Monday Challenge!

For my lace project, I decided to use the adorable Outlines image of "Mazie & Max" (E-1180). I stamped the image using Marvy Black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored both turtles with Copic markers and then carefully cut around the turtles using my Cutter-bee scissors. I stamped the Outlines sentiment "Always & Forever Square Small" (B-729) also with Marvy Black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock and colored it with Copic markers.

Patterned paper from Making Memories and beige cardstock form the layers of this card. A small heart punch was used for the hearts, and then of course inspired by the challenge, I adhered three strips of lace. I pop-dotted the image and sentiment to add some more dimension to the card.

Make sure you visit the design team for more ideas on how to use lace:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sue Kment

As always, thanks for visiting my blog today.

Froggie Love

2011-08-01T05:00:00.015-04:00

Time for another Outlines Monday Challenge! Each week brings you another chance to win a $25 gift certificate from Outlines Rubber Stamp Company. All you have to do is play along with us.

This week, we've been challenged by an inspiration photo. When I first saw it, I thought such a room would be perfect for a frog. And, from that thought, the idea for this particular card was born. I borrowed the colors, the white decorative frame, and the black frame and incorporated those elements into my card.

I stamped the adorable frog couple from the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company, "Bianca & Bob" (E-1178), onto X-Press It cardstock with Marvy black dye ink. I colored them with Copic markers and cut them out with my Cutter-bee scissors. I then stamped "Fancy Frame" (K-1185) onto X-Press It cardstock with Marvy black dye ink and cut along the outside of the frame and along the inside so that I could build a scene. I also stamped the sentiment "Love" (C-243) and cut around just the word panel, and framed the word with black cardstock.

I created the room where the frogs are sitting with Bo Bunny patterned paper acting as the wall paper, and textured light green cardstock as the floor. I "sat" the frogs on the floor and added a little shadow with a Copic marker. I then "hung" the picture of love on the wall.

You are going to love what the other design team members came up with by looking at the photo. Don't miss visiting the inspiring:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Thanks so much for stopping by my blog today!

One Year Ago...

2011-07-31T17:48:00.001-04:00

One year ago today, at 5:48 pm, I married my sweet, sweet husband...in an old post office! So, to commemorate that special moment, here's the anniversary card I made for him.

The image of the calla lilies is from Rubbernecker's 2010 floral release. I stamped the image onto X-Press It cardstock with Marvy black dye and colored with Copic markers. I then cut around the calla lilies. I placed it inside of the postage stamp border, which was made using my Cricut, specifically the Sweethearts cartridge. The small heart was cut from a Nestabilities die, and I wrote "1st" with a Memento Tuxedo Black pen. The cancelled stamp image was custom-made for our wedding last year, complete with our names, date, and location of our wedding.

Patterned paper from Lasting Impressions, DCWV, and gold cardstock form the layers for this card. I used a white gel pen to dot around the larger panel.

July 31, 2010 was the best day of my life. I loved every second of it. It was truly like a fairy tale. Happy Anniversary, Chris!

Christmas in July

2011-07-25T05:00:00.004-04:00

This week on the Outlines Rubber Stamps Challenge Blog, we are celebrating Christmas in July. It is never too early to get a jump start on all of those Christmas projects, so why not play along this week for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate from Outlines.

I chose to work with the beautiful image from Outlines called "Angels" (G-996). I stamped the image with Marvy Black dye ink onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers, and did some sparkly white highlights around the wings and the word "Joy" with Moonlight Smooch. I sponged around the image panel with some Adirondack Latte dye ink. I then stamped the image again, colored and cut, so that I could give some dimension to one of the angels and a star.

Patterned paper from Hot Off the Press, black cardstock, and gold cardstock provide the frames and panels for this card. Sheer gold ribbon, and a golden star brad put the finishing touches on this card.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas on the blogs of the design team. Make sure you visit for some more holiday inspiration:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Thanks so much for stopping by my blog today!

Whee! Humidity!

2011-07-23T12:31:00.007-04:00

I made this card a few days ago, but I'm just now able to share it due to a photography issue. It is so hot and HUMID here, that whenever I take my camera outside (which is where I take photographs of my cards), the lens immediately fogs up with moisture. It has been so frustrating. I was thankful for a storm yesterday evening, that cooled things off, albeit briefly, so that I could take these pictures. (Santa, if you are reading, I think I need a light box).

The digital image is called "Swinging Cynthia". She is from The Stamping Boutique. I printed her onto X-Press It cardstock and colored her with Copic markers. I added Stickles to the image for a little sparkle. Patterned paper from Doodlebug Designs and My Big Ideas form the layers to this card. I printed the image again to cut out two clouds to place outside the image panel. Small butterfly brads were used, along with some Baker's Twine.

The sentiment was stamped on a scrap piece of paper (sorry, unknown source) with Versafine Black Onyx, and is from a $1 Studio G stamp from Michaels.

There are more cards to share on the horizon, and I will do so whenever Mother Nature allows me to do so. Until then, stay cool!

Meet Murray

2011-07-20T18:21:00.006-04:00

Murray just has to be good buddies with Ralph, don't you think? I think they'd get along splendidly. I'm sure they must know each other.

The image and sentiment on this card are called "Murray with Catch" and "Fishes". Both are from the 2011 Rubbernecker's Old Characters release. And, in case you are interested, so is Ralph.

I stamped Murray onto X-Press It cardstock with Marvy black dye and colored with Copic markers. I then cut around the image with my Cutter-bee scissors ever so carefully.

I cut a rectangle panel with a Nestabilities die, and sponged it with a gradient of SeaShells Cloudy Blue dye ink. Patterned paper from The Paper Studio was dry embossed with a Cuttlebug folder, and sponged with SeaShells Cloudy Blue dye ink. I framed both the rectangle and patterned paper with brown cardstock. The funny sentiment was stamped onto the patterned paper with Versafine Onyx Black ink and cut apart into segments. I adhered embroidery floss as the fishing line.

The colors for this card were inspired by the current Color Combinations #332 challenge on Splitcoast.

So glad you had a chance to catch my Murray card today. Thanks so much for visiting.

And, when you have the chance...make sure to visit the Rubbernecker Blog. There's lots of fun going on over there, every day that ends with the letter "y". ;-)

Calla Lily Sparkling Color Block

2011-07-19T00:15:00.004-04:00

I had a chance to play along with Monday's Try A New Technique Challenge #334 on Splitcoast. The challenge was to Color Block, with a Twist. For my color block, I put Distress Ink Spun Sugar dye ink onto an acrylic block. For the twist, I sprayed the block with Tsukineko's Sheer Shimmer Mist. Then, I stamped the acrylic block onto Neenah Crest Solar White cardstock. I framed this with black cardstock.

The cally lilies image is from the 2010 Floral release from Rubbernecker Stamps, and the Thinking of You sentiment is from the 2011 Friends release. I stamped the calla lilies onto Neenah Crest Solar White cardstock with Marvy Black dye ink. I colored them with Copic markers. Carefully I cut around the flowers, and pop-dotted portions of the image. The sentiment was stamped directly onto the color block. A sheer white ribbon was attached to the color block panel. Textured white paper and more black cardstock frame the card.

I love calla lilies. Such a reminder of the beautiful wedding we had last summer.

I'm so glad you stopped by my blog today.

Did Someone Say Cake?

2011-07-18T05:00:00.002-04:00

Yes, someone did say cake! This week's Outlines Rubber Stamp Company's Monday Challenge is definitely for your sweet tooth. The challenge is to create something with a sweet treat as the theme. Make sure you play along for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate from Outlines!

My card this week features two stamps from Outlines Rubber Stamp Company ; Sketchy Cupcake H-1016 and the sentiment Birthdays are...D-1076. I stamped both the image and sentiment onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock using Marvy black dye ink. I colored the image with Copic markers, and then proceeded to cut the image panel into a rectangle, using the Out-of-the-Box technique so two of the balloons and the plate would emerge from the rectangle. Then for a fun sprinkles look on the cupcake, I applied Polar White Flower Soft using Flower Soft PVA glue.

Patterned paper from Doodlebug Design and Lasting Impressions were used to created the layers of this card, and all layers including the image and the sentiment were framed with black cardstock. I stamped the main image again, colored and cut out some of the confetti so that I could spill it over onto some of the other panels. A sheer white ribbon puts the finishing touches on this birthday card.

Want to see some more sweet, sugary goodness? Visit the rest of the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company Design Team for some more sweet treats.

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Thank you so much for stopping by my blog today. Have a sweet week!

Monkeying Around

2011-07-13T15:13:00.006-04:00

Though I'm usually quite fearful of CAS cards, this one just came together as I was "monkeying around" with two new stamps from Rubbernecker Stamps.

Both the monkey and the "monkey around"sentiment are from the 2011 Animal release from Rubbernecker.

I stamped the monkey onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock with Marvy black dye. I colored the image with Copic markers, and some slight colored pencil shading. I then cut around the image with my Cutter-bee scissors.

Next, I cut and embossed a rectangle from a Nestabilities die. I sponged Adirondack Lemonade and Adirondack Willow dye inks onto the rectangle. I created the "vine" with Baker's Twine and draped it over the rectangle.

The card base is of kraft cardstock, and the sentiment was stamped also with Marvy black dye ink.

After a busy week of trips to Cincinnati, Dayton and Cleveland (Hollo's !!!), I have some time this week to monkey around in my stamp room, so visit my blog again soon to see some new creations. Thanks for visiting today!

Dot, Dot, Dot!

2011-07-11T05:00:00.005-04:00

It's Monday. You know what that means...time for another challenge from Outlines Rubber Stamp Company. This week the challenge is to incorporate Polka Dots somewhere in your design. Make sure you play along too for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate from Outlines. You can find all of the details on the Outlines Blog.

I love working with Polka Dots. I think they are so fun and whimsical, so a fun bright card is the result of my efforts.

I stamped the gorgeous image of Olivia 1002-I from Outlines with Marvy black dye ink onto Neenah Classic Crest Solar White cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers. Wanting to add dimension to Olivia's hair, I stamped her again onto the Neenah cardstock and colored the hair again. I pop-dotted the hair and adhered the pair of sunglasses from Dress It Up Buttons on her face. To give her the pearl necklace she is wearing, I dotted a line around her neck using an Ice White Viva Decor Pearl Pen. The Polka Dot shirt Olivia is wearing is paper pieced using patterned paper from Doodlebug Design, along with the flower centers, and the three dots along the bottom of the card. The white flowers, stamped from a portion of the Olivia image, was ran through the Cuttlebug with a Swiss Dot embossing folder to give them a little texture.

Patterned paper from Jillibean Soup's Watermelon Gazpacho pad are used for the green and white Polka Dot background, and the sentiment..."summer time is the best time", which came from a fun piece of paper that had summertime text. I thought it went nicely with the overall feel of this card.
A little bow of Baker's Twine was adhered to the card, and some pearl drops using the Ice White Viva Decor Pearl Pen put the finishing touches on this card.

I had a blast making this card, and I'm sure you will have a blast visiting the rest of the design team's blogs to see their Polka Dot creations.

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Thank you so much for stopping by my blog today.

I'm RED-y!

2011-07-04T05:00:00.009-04:00

Imagine how uplifting it was for me to receive an email from Jenny Gropp as I was pulling into my driveway on a Friday afternoon in May after what had been a very trying week at work. She asked me if I would want to join the Outlines Rubber Stamp Company's Design Team. HELLO??!! YES!!! OF COURSE!!! It brightened my mood so much, and since then I've been sitting on this secret. I feel so very honored to be joining such a talented team for a company I have admired for years.

Every Monday, Outlines Rubber Stamps posts a challenge on their blog. If you play along you have a chance to win a $25 Gift Certificate every week! So get crafting!

This week's challenge is called "Red Hot!", to make the color red prominent in your creation.

For this challenge, I elected to use a stamp from the Serendipity line called "Fairy Ring" I-1146. I stamped the image with Marvy black dye onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers. I framed the image with red cardstock and patterned paper from Jillibean Soup. For the finishing touches I tied a red polka dotted bow around the card.

Make sure you get "Red Hot" too this week. For some more "Red Hot" inspiration, don't forget to visit other members of Outlines Rubber Stamp Company Design Team:

Jeanne Streiff
Jenny Gropp
Lisa Silver
Robin Kirkpatrick
Sandy Hulsart
Sue Kment

Thanks for visiting my blog today.

Eh?

2011-07-01T10:55:00.003-04:00

Some members of The Stamping Boutique's Design Team are getting together to show a little Canadian and American patriotism. If you came from the amazingly talented Collette's blog, you are in the right place. If not, you'll want to start from the beginning of the hop...The Stamping Boutique's Challenge Blog.

We had our choice of two images, a Canadian moose or an American eagle. Though I am American, I had to go with the Canada Day Moose. He was just too cute to pass up. So, I made a Canada Day card.

I printed the image from The Stamping Boutique onto X-Press It cardstock and colored it with Copic markers. I then placed the image panel onto a piece of red cardstock, with the intention of somewhat mimicking the Canadian flag. I then used my Olivia Cuttlebug alphabet dies to cut the sentiment. Pretty cute, but simple, eh?

I wish all of my blog visitors a safe, happy weekend, from wherever you may hail.

Now, go visit the very talented Stacie, to see what she has to share.

Fishing Funnies

2011-06-30T15:19:00.005-04:00

Are you familiar with the Old Characters line of images and sentiments from Rubbernecker Stamps? They are a hoot! When I first saw them, I laughed out loud at each and every one of them. They are too funny.

The image on this card is "Ralph Fishing" and I teamed it up with the sentiment "Fishes". I stamped Ralph onto Neenah Solar Crest white cardstock using Marvy black dye ink. I colored him with Copic markers. I then created a mask for Ralph, using a Post-It note, and proceeded to create a scene through sponging. The colors of dye ink I used in the bright morning sky are: SeaShells Conch Shell, Adirondack Sunshine Yellow, and Adirondack Sunset Orange. The water was then created using Copic markers and a white gel pen. I attempted to draw in Ralph's reflection using Copics, and sponged some Sunshine Yellow for the sun's reflection.

I framed the image panel and a layer of patterned paper from Hot of The Press with black cardstock. I then mounted the card onto a piece of kraft. Three small black brads, and a tag cut from kraft and tied with baker's twine for the sentiment, complete the card.

I have some more Old Characters from Rubbernecker to share with you during the next couple of months, so check back for some laughs.

Thanks you so much for visiting my blog today. Have a fun, safe weekend.

Sparkling Happiness

2011-06-25T18:15:00.004-04:00

I truly can't get enough of these Fairy Cynthia images from The Stamping Boutique. This particular digital image is called "Cynthia Pushing the Mushroom Cart".

In real life, this card sparkles. It is my first try with Curious Metallics Cryogen White cardstock, and I must say the Copics take to it very well. There is such a subtle sparkle to the paper...very nice, though I think X-Press It cardstock and Neenah seem "whiter" if that makes any sense. It is a plus that my printer accepted the Cryogen with no problem.

So, I printed the image onto the Cryogen cardstock and colored it with Copic markers. I added some Stickles to the wings for some more sparkle. The sentiment is from Studio G, one of those $1 stamps from Michaels. I stamped it with Versafine Onyx Black.

Patterned paper from My Mind's Eye provide the layers for this particular card. One panel was run through the Cuttlebug with an embossing folder. I paper pierced around the larger panel. The image panels has dimension due to Pop-Dots. Buttons with twine were added to the card for the finishing touches.

So glad you dropped by my blog today. I wish you a pleasant weekend.

Sun Dance

2011-06-24T10:46:00.005-04:00

With all of the rain we've been having, I'm thinking I will break out in dance the next time the sun comes out.

That's just what Demetri, from the Rubbernecker Stamps African American Collection, is doing on this card. I stamped the image with Versamark and Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock. I heat embossed the image with Judikins clear embossing powder. I then colored Demetri with Copic markers. After I completed that, I covered Demetri with Versamark ink, using a Versamarker, and applied and heated clear embossing powder again to create a mask for sponging.

I sponged the following dye inks onto the cardstock to create background: SeaShells Conch Shell, Adirondack Lemondade, Adirondack Sunshine Yellow, Distress Ink Wild Honey, Adirondack Butterscotch, and Adirondack Rust. I then used a reverse mask of a circle, to create further definition for the sun.

The sentiment is also from Rubbernecker Stamps. An orange rhinestone was also adhered to the card, and then the card was mounted to a black cardstock frame.

This card was inspired by the current sketch challenge, #338, on Splitcoast.

Thanks for stopping by my blog today. I hope this card brought a little sunshine your day...I know I got a little Vitamin D just from making it.

Hot Diggity Dog!

2011-06-21T09:34:00.008-04:00

I'm extremely excited to be joining the Rubbernecker Design Team. My dachshund, Sloopy, insisted that this dachshund image be the first image I use for my first official creation. How could I resist and argue with her?

Both the dog and the sentiment are from the new animals collection at Rubbernecker Stamps. I stamped the dachshund onto X-Press It cardstock with Marvy black dye and colored with Copic markers. I then cut the image out and set it aside. Using a Nestabilities circle die, I made a circle and proceeded to create a scene of clouds and grass, sponging on the following dye inks: SeaShells Cloudy blue, Whispers Savoy Green and Adirondack Oregano. I paper pierced around the circle and placed the dachshund and bone charm onto the scene. I cut another circle with a Nestabilities die, to frame the circle.

Patterned paper from Front Porch by Traci Sims, Lasting Impressions and an unknown source (sorry, it was a scrap), help create the layers to the card, along with brown and kraft cardstock. The paper from Front Porch was dry embossed with a Cuttlebug folder. More paper piercing around the layers occurred. A corner punch was used to round two of the corners. A ribbon and a dog paw brad complete the card.

Thanks so much for stopping by my blog today, and letting me share my news. And, thanks to Rubbernecker Stamps for giving me this wonderful honor.

Sassy Graduation Tent

2011-06-18T10:16:00.005-04:00

My husband needed a graduation card, so he commissioned me to make one. He's trainable...he used to go to Hallmark. What was so bizarre about making this card is the recipient graduated from my high school. So, I knew all about the colors I should use...though I won't tell you how long it has been since I donned the beloved white gown. How on earth did it become 2011 anyway???!!!

This card was inspired by the current challenge on Sassy Cheryl's Challenge Blog. Challenge #68 is to make a tent card. I've never made a tent card before, so I thought I'd give it a try. I used the easy-to-follow tutorial on Splitcoast as my guide.

One of my go-to images for a girl graduate is this digital image from Sassy Cheryl's called "Frantic Girl Graduate". I printed this image onto X-Press It cardstock and colored it with Copic markers. Not much coloring needed (boo-hoo!), given the white gown. I cut around the image, later to be placed on the card. I also used $1 Studio G stamps from Michaels for the graduation cap and the sentiment, also cut and to later to be placed around on the outside panel. The patterned paper on the front panel is from Lasting Impressions. I paper pierced around it. The circle window was cut using a Nestabilities die, as was the white circle frame around the window.

The inside of the tent card uses a panel of patterned paper that looks like notebook paper, also from Lasting Impressions. I stamped "Class of" with Karen Foster Snapstamps (Oh why did they stop making these?), and then adhered 2-0-1-1 from the actual graduation announcement onto the panel as well. I was trying to go for a little doodling, ransom note effect. Thought that helped with the card's whimsical feel.

I then brought the front and inside panels together with a scored piece of cardstock, mountain/valley style. That forced me to find my neglected Scor-It.

All in all, a pretty cool card...and an unavoidable trip down memory lane. Oh, to be that young again.

Hello, Sunflowers

2011-06-16T11:14:00.006-04:00

I wanted to share with you today a new digital image from The Stamping Boutique. It is appropriately called "Sunflower".

I printed the image twice onto X-Press It cardstock and colored both with Copic markers, Prismacolor pencils, and a Lemon atyouSpica marker. I then set out to make this scene dimensional by cutting around parts of the image and using Pop-Dots to raise portions of the scene. My Cutter-bee scissors get the credit for the intricate cutting.

Then, I placed the finished image onto patterned paper from The Paper Studio and Creative Imaginations. These panels are framed with a brown cardstock. The loop decoration was cut from a Memory Box die.

The sentiment and butterfly were stamped with Marvy Dark Brown ink and are from a My Favorite Things set called "Bundles of Bouquets", both stamped on the Creative Imaginations paper.

Thanks so much for stopping by my blog today. I hope you visit again soon.

Alone

2011-06-12T20:56:00.005-04:00

I was in the mood to color today. I decided that Tracey's digital image "Alone" from The Stamping Boutique would be a fun one to tackle. I was right. Also, I think three straight dreams about being at the beach might indicate I need some type of vacation, and could have influenced my choice. For now, beach images are all I've got, LOL.

I printed the image onto X-Press It cardstock and colored it with Copic markers. Some light marks with a Sakura glitter pen highlight the mermaid's fins. I cut around the image, and then printed it a second time onto some tan cardstock. I adhered the first image to the second image, allowing me to hold onto to the details of dots, stars, etc. of the entire image. From there, I stamped a shell border from PSX with Brilliance Pearlescent Beige Pigment ink and colored with various colored pencils. I didn't want to detract from the main image, but thought there needed to be a little ground clutter. Then, with Marvy black dye ink I stamped the bird from My Favorite Things 'By the Seashore" set onto the image once, and off the image twice. The sentiment is also from PSX, and was stamped onto a torn sheet of white cardstock. Some light sponging around the sentiment panel with SeaShells Sandal dye ink was done. A black cardstock panel, and then a white cardstock panel frame the tan panel.

This was a fun card to make, though I know an actual beach would be a lot more fun. Oh well, here's hoping.

Thanks so much for stopping by my blog today. I hope it was a little escape for you too.

Cocktail Wieners

2011-06-07T21:06:00.008-04:00

I have a warped sense of humor and a huge collection of dachshund stamps. So, when I saw the CAS#122 Challenge on Splitcoast, which is "Play on Words", I just had to play along.

The stamps I used include "Mixed Cocktails" from Stamps Happen, and two dachshund stamps from Cowtown Stamps. I inked the Stamps Happen image with a Memento Tuxedo Black marker and stamped onto X-Press It cardstock. Then, with my Stamp-a-ma-jig, I positioned the two different dachshunds from Cowtown Stamps into the cocktail glasses. I colored the scene with Copic markers.

I place the image panel onto a scrap of patterned paper from Lasting Impressions. The sentiment, which is my play on words, was computer-generated. The two dog paws are a portion of a stamp from Hero Arts. A ribbon was tied around the card to add the finishing details.

Thanks for visiting my blog today. I hope it made you smile.

Summer Laundry Line

2011-06-06T07:58:00.002-04:00

As promised, here's the card I made for this past weekend's One Stop Blog Hop for The Stamping Boutique.

I absolutely adore this image from The Stamping Boutique. It is called "Summer Laundry Line." I printed the image onto X-Press It cardstock and colored it with Copic markers. I added the ocean to the image by drawing it into the image. Faint whitecaps were made with a white gel pen. I sponged the clouds with SeaShells Cloudy Blue dye ink. I framed the image with black cardstock. The large panel behind the image is patterned paper from The Paper Studio. Bakers twine was tied around the card, and the sentiment is from Fiskars. It was stamped with Marvy black dye ink.

Summer??? Are we there yet??? Oh yes we are!!! So glad to be off now for a couple months. Woot!

Check back again soon. Thanks so much for visiting my blog.

Stained Glass Desert

2011-06-05T14:27:00.006-04:00

I can't resist southwest images. I can't. It truly is an illness.

When I saw the current Inspiration Challenge #287 on Splitcoast, I knew I'd be playing along when I spotted this southwest stained glass piece from the Daniel Maher Stained Glass Studio.

I immediately thought of this image from Rubbernecker called Desert Cactus from their stained glass line. I stamped the image twice, first on Neenah Solar Crest white cardstock with Marvy dye black ink, and then onto a piece of acetate with Stazon Jet Black. I colored the image on the Neenah Solar Crest white cardstock with Copic markers. I then cut the image from the acetate, and added a little Copic coloring on the back of the acetate. I merged the two together in my best attempt to get a stained glass effect, having run the acetate through my Xyron machine.

Since the image itself does all of the work, I limited the layers to a piece of black cardstock covered with copper mesh and a piece of patterned paper from Lasting Impressions. A small circle clip and ribbon complete the card.

In real life, this truly looks like stained glass. The acetate, and the faint Copic coloring on the acetate help make the whole project look like shiny glass. I'm loving it.

Thanks so much for stopping by my blog today. I hope you are enjoying your weekend.

One Stop Blog Hop

2011-06-04T09:26:00.003-04:00

I made a card to share with you today, but it is a part of The Stamping Boutique's One Stop Blog Hop this weekend.

So, hop on over there and guess which card is mine. Then, vote for your favorite card for a chance to win an image from The Stamping Boutique. You will totally fall in love with the summer laundry line image. It is perfect for summertime cards.

And, be sure to check back on Monday for a full post on the card that is mine.

Enjoy the weekend. I'm off to enjoy summer, or laundry. Decisions. Decisions.

A Day To Remember

2011-05-30T13:21:00.006-04:00

Today is Memorial Day in the United States. Time to pay tribute to those who have fought and to those who continue to fight for our freedom. I made this card last night with that in mind. Thank you, Heroes.

This morning I awoke to the rattling news of the resignation of Jim Tressel. So, in Buckeye Nation, we are dealing with the raw emotions of that. It's the kind of news where you remember where you are when you hear it. I was nine when Woody was fired and though young, knew it was major. I was a senior in high school when Earle was fired, and stayed home from school the next day because I was sad and had listened to the radio all night to figure out "WHY?". (I still don't know "WHY?"). I was relieved when Cooper was fired after the Outback Bowl in 2001, though a very nice man, he just didn't get Ohio State football. And today, on Memorial Day, I am dealing with the news that the Tressel era is over.

My Facebook status reads: "It was time. I am sorry that he was asked to resign. I wish he would have done it on his own months ago. I think the timing certainly suggests the turbulence ahead (starting with the SI article that hits the stands tomorrow). I am sad, and mad about the mess that is now OSU football, but I am also grateful for the decade of memories. What a fun ride it was. Thanks so much for 1/3/03, Tressel. I loved every second."

So that aside, it is important that Buckeye Fans, including myself, not lose sight about what today is really about. Which is why this card was made.

The adorable digital image called "America Tootle" was a freebie from Broken Box Designs that was posted right after the Bin Laden news a few weeks ago. I snagged it and thought it was very appropriate for today's card. I printed it onto X-Press It cardstock and colored it with Copic markers. Red cardstock and patterned paper from Lasting Impression form the the layers to this card. Some paper piercing, patriotic ribbon, a star brad and computer-generated sentiment complete the card. Some light touches with Stickles make the stars sparkle.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today. I usually try to stick with stamping when it comes to my posts so I am sorry about the the events of today weighing so heavily on my mind. It is a part of me.

Go Buckeyes!
Go USA!

Wish

2011-05-29T13:58:00.007-04:00

The school year is winding down, so there is a lot more stamping time on the horizon. Wishes really do come true!

This image, called "Birthday Fairy" is available from The Stamping Boutique. I printed it onto X-Press It cardstock and colored with Copic markers. So much fun! I added Stickles to highlight the wings, and put some sparkles into the cupcake. I paper pierced around the image panel.

The other panels were made using patterned paper from Lasting Impressions, The Paper Studio and black cardstock. I paper pierced along the Lasting Impressions panel. I added some ribbon, and used a Nestabilities die to cut the shape for the sentiment, which is from Stampendous and was stamped using Memento Tuxedo Black ink.

This card was actually inspired by the current Inspiration Challenge #286 on Splitcoast, specifically this napkin. I immediately thought of Tracey's image. I did deviate from the little girl pink colors, using other colors to try and make this a more general purpose birthday card, rather than a card for a little girl.

Wishes really do come true...go to The Stamping Boutique to grab some images at 35% off through Memorial Day. They truly are so much fun to color.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today.

Dog Days of Summer

2011-05-22T18:10:00.008-04:00

Here's another card I made during the Virtual Stamp Night challenges on Splitcoast. Specifically, this one was inspired by the challenge, "Off, Into the Sunset," which challenged us to sponge a background.

I knew I wanted to create a beach scene, and I wanted to use the dachshund image from Cowtown Stamps. And, from that, this card emerged. I sponged the sky and water using the following dye inks: Memories Soft Baby Blue, Marvy Caribbean Blue, Adirondack Sailboat Blue, and Adirondack Denim. A white gel pen provided some of the whitecaps. The sand is made with a torn strip of paper sponging the following dye inks: SeaShells Sandal, SeaShells Peach Bellini, Adrirondack Latte. A Stampendous sand stamp was stamped with Brilliance Pearlescent Beige Pigment Ink randomly to give the sand the appearance of texture. Also dots of Copic markers and a Sakura glitter pen helped with this effort.

The adorable dachshund sandcastle image from Cowtown Stamps was stamped with Marvy black dye ink onto X-Press It cardstock and colored with Copic markers. The image was then cut out and placed into the scene. A little shadowing with a Prismacolor pencil was done on the sand, along with two faint paw prints. The beach ball is from a larger image from Inkadinkado, and the birds are from My Favorite Things.

The patterned paper is from Bo Bunny and the card and scene are framed with black cardstock. The sentiment is computer-generated, Baker's Twine and a clear button were attached as the finishing elements of this card.

I, for one, cannot wait for the dogs days of summer. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE having my summer off. This warm summer-like weekend was just a preview.

Proud Paisley Peacock

2011-05-21T20:31:00.006-04:00

This weekend Splitcoast is hosting Virtual Stamp Night Challenges. They are so much fun. However, it almost seems criminal to stay inside and stamp today, since it is finally a beautiful sunny day here. What has it been? About two months since we've seen the sun?

I did sneak some time to participate in the "Polly Wanna Cracker" Challenge, which is to make a brightly colored square card using a bird image.

I've been wanting to color "Paisley Peacock" from The Stamping Boutique for a few weeks now, so this challenge finally satisfied the urge. I printed the image onto X-Press It cardstock and colored with Copic markers. I added many touches of Stickles, so in real life, the card truly glistens. Patterned paper from Bo Bunny and black cardstock make up the layers of this card. A sheer ribbon and a small tag cut with a Cuttlebug die puts the finishing touches on this card. The sentiment of "So Proud" is computer-generated.

I'm so proud of myself for balancing my day between sunshine and stamping, though I fear now that the sun has gone down, I may pull an all-nighter in my stamp room.

Lilacs in Full Bloom

2011-05-17T07:30:00.000-04:00

In my backyard, at my work...the lilacs are in bloom. In fact, they are even in my stamp room.

I wanted to share a non-card with you. Just a practice sample, if you will. It is a lilac image drawn by Marianne Walker for Copic, and colored by me.

On Friday, I was so excited to have a much-needed day off and was able to attend the Intermediate Copic Certification class in Columbus, OH, taught by Colleen Schaan. I figured that if I traveled all the way to Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 2008 for the Standard Certification, then I had no excuses for not going, given it was just 15 minutes away.

Anyway, it was a great class! I urge all of you to take it if you have the chance. I hope I will be able to apply some of my learning in my future projects.

The lilac image was final project for the class, which I actually took home and finished on Sunday...one thing I learned, I'm a slower colorist than most with a "light touch". ;-)

I will link this particular post to Sassy Cheryl's Show Me #24 Challenge. Seems to fit.

And take a look at a photo I took after school today. The blossoms are kinda positioned the same, aren't they? Now if only the sun would shine around here so I could see those cast shadows. ;-)

Stacked Presents

2011-05-16T10:15:00.007-04:00

Whew! It has been a busy May, with no signs of it letting up anytime soon. The end of the school year is just crazy, like always. But, I did sneak in some coloring time today, so I thought I would share the results.

The image is a recently released image from The Stamping Boutique. It is called "Stacked Presents". I printed it onto X-Press It cardstock and colored it with Copic markers. Patterned paper from Bo Bunny and bright blue cardstock form the layers to this card. A curly ribbon and orange rhinestones help embellish the card, along with little highlights of Stickles. The sentiment is a $1 stamp from Michaels, stamped with Marvy Dye black ink.

I made this card for my stash of cards, though I was inspired by the following challenges...Make a Tall Card at Paper Playtime and Spots or Stripes at Lexi's Creations.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today. I will be coloring for sanity during the next couple weeks, so check back soon. I should have something to share. Have a great week.

Treasured Friend

2011-05-01T16:01:00.005-04:00

Ahoy, Matey!

I found some time to participate in one of the Virtual Stamp Night mini-challenges on Splitcoast, Pretty Polly, which was to create a card using a parrot's colors...green, orange and yellow.

I immediately thought of a set I have from Starving Artiststamps called Doodle Factory Tropics, which includes the image of a pirate parrot. Using Marvy black dye ink, I stamped the parrot and the treasure chest of gold onto Neenah solar white cardstock. I colored these images with Copic markers and a atyouSpica glitter lemon marker. I cut close around these images, leaving just a small border of white, using my Cutter-bee detail scissors.

I then stamped a Darcie treasure map using Versafine Onyx Black pigment ink onto a scrap piece of Lasting Impressions cardstock. I sponged around the edge of the map with Distress Ink Walnut Stain and adhered to black cardstock. I arranged the parrot and gold onto the card.

The sentiment is computer-generated and is affixed to the card with a rhinestone brad.

Gotta tell you a pirate riddle I found on the internet that cracked me up as I was making this card:

What is a pirate's favorite restaurant? Arrrrrby's! (Yes, I know, my sense of humor is a bit warped.)

I had a lot of fun making this card. I need to ink some of the other stamps in this set. They are so fabulous and fun to color.

Thanks so much for stopping by my blog! Have a terrific week ahead!

Portraiture

2011-04-30T11:35:00.005-04:00

I thought it would be fun to play along with the current "Bold and Bright" challenge on The Penny Black Blog. I colored little bits and pieces of it throughout the week, and it really was therapeutic considering how dull and dreary it has been around here.

I stamped the Penny Black image "Portraiture" with Marvy black dye onto Neenah solar white cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers and a lemon yellow atyouSpica glitter pen.

I cut around the image using a Nestabilities die. Patterned paper from My Minds Eye and DCWV help form the layout of the card. The sentiment is computer-generated.

Thanks so much for visiting my blog today. I wish you a great weekend, filled with inspiration.

Sneaky Bear

2011-04-24T23:38:00.009-04:00

Sassy Cheryl had an Easter Sale, so I went ahead and filled up my basket with lots of sweet, sweet images. You know, in the spirit of Easter. ;-)

This card is made from her image "Sneaky Bear Birthday Cupcake". Isn't he just adorable peaking around that delicious treat? I printed this digital image onto X-Press It cardstock and colored with Copic markers. I put some very faint highlights of Stickles onto the cupcake, just to add a little sparkle.

I cut around the image with a Nestabilities die, and framed the image with more Nestabilities die cuts, using white and pink cardstock. The patterned paper is from Bo Bunny and one strip of the white cardstock was run through the Cuttlebug with an embossing folder. A tag was cut with a tag punch, and the sentiment was stamped with Versafine Onyx Black pigment ink and is from Studio G, one of the Michael's $1 stamps. Some pink rhinestones were added to give the card just a little more bling.

I am going to enter this card into one of Cheryl's fun challenges, Color Me #19, which was to color this adorable image. So much fun!

Thanks so much for visiting my blog! I sure do appreciate you taking the time to look at my latest creation.

Brighter Days Ahead

2011-04-23T11:02:00.006-04:00

No, nothing is wrong. No worries here. I guess all of the rain we've been having here has made it into my stamp room. Funny thing is, when I started this card, my vision was to make a bright, bold card. And this is the gloomy result? LOL! I actually have no idea how my final product will ever look, until it is done.

I printed the digital image "Rainy Cynthia" from The Stamping Boutique onto X-Press It cardstock. I colored the image with Copic markers. The patterned paper panels are scraps from my blue paper bin. I am sorry I don't know the source of these papers, but I can almost guarantee I purchased them at JoAnns and/or Hobbylobby and I've seen them there time and time again. Black cardstock frame these panels, and the layout is from Sketch Challenge #327 on Splitcoast. Three crystal beads were affixed to the card. The sentiment is computer-generated and the cloud around the sentiment is hand drawn by me.

Make your day a bright one, regardless of the weather! Thanks so much for visiting my blog.

PEEPS!

2011-04-21T07:41:00.003-04:00

I was so delighted when Tracey Malnofski drew this image for The Stamping Boutique. It is called "Easter Cupcake", and though that cupcake looks divine, those that know me know that the Peeps are what call my name this time of year. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Peeps, to the point I'll probably go into some form of mourning after Easter when they are no longer available.

I printed the digital image onto X-Press It cardstock and colored with Copic markers. Some sparkling highlights were added to the Peep bunnies using an atyouSpica pen and a Sakura glitter pen. I cut a frame around the image using a Nestabilities die. The image was then adhered to a Lasting Impressions patterned paper panel. A sheer white ribbon was added, along with what seems to be a perfect sentiment from Whimsie Doodles.

I created this card for the current challenge at Hanna and Friends Challenge Blog. The challenge is to simply make an Easter card. Very appropriate indeed. Hop on over, as The Stamping Boutique is sponsoring this challenge.

Wishing you all a very Peep-filled weekend!

Glitter Hummingbird

2011-04-10T15:27:00.006-04:00

Here's the pain-in-the-you-know-what card that has had so many starts and blunders and mess ups throughout the week. I have been sparkling all week because of this card, glitter, glitter, everywhere. And, yesterday I mentioned that Martha Stewart glitter glue leaves a lot to be desired. Well, let's just say that after about a day, Martha Stewart glitter glue removes itself from acetate. Delightful.

So, when someone asks me tomorrow what I did on my spring break...the correct response will be I made a glitter on acetate card.

I actually like the look of glitter on acetate. When I first started stamping years ago, I was drawn to this look. This was before my coloring addiction fully kicked in. I took a class on how to do it, which was great because the glitter was all over the rubber stamp store, not my house.

It is actually quite easy, just messy.

I stamped the Terry Medaris hummingbird with Stazon Jet Black ink onto a piece of acetate. Then on the opposite side of the ink, I covered parts of the image with Art Institute glitter glue (gets my vote!) and then applied the appropriate colored glitter, also from Art Institute. Then the drying begins. This particular one took about two days. This was just one of many takes with different glitter colors, etc. I really liked an attempt I had with a green hummingbird, but Martha didn't.

Once dry, I then used Terrifically Tacky Tape to adhere the acetate to a base of patterned paper from Lasting Impressions. I then made the front panel of the card from a bag (I like the pattern of the blue flowers) and cut a circle. Then, putting things all together, I added a light blue sheer bow, along with two flowers from Michael's Recollections.

If you run into me and see that I sparkle, you now know the reason why. ;-)