EncourageJoy

New Queen... QFTD98

2012-02-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

Here are my two cards for the Queen this week! I think they would both be considered one layer cards. You can see the cards I was inspired by in the background.

Here is the link to the Queen for the Day Challenge. I hope you can come play along!

Strawberry punch art

2012-02-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

Punch art using heart punch, bird punch, boho blossoms punch.
The sentiment (Sweet Cake) and strawberry are popped up with dimensionals.

Family Collage

2012-02-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

After making the collages for the kids (which I'm going to print out as 8X10 and then frame). I decided to make a picture for my husband to put up at his work. I'm going to make this an 8x10 too and frame it. I'll give this one to him and the other to my kids for Valentine's Day (along with chocolate and a card). Hope they like them. I had fun making them. I made them with My Digital Studio.

Kids names

2012-01-31T10:15:00.005-07:00

I made some of these for my friend who had a baby shower last night. I decided I would also make some for my kids. I'll share the ones I made for my kids.

I made these with the My Digital Studio Program. I love that program. I am starting to use it for more and more things. I make it as a page, export it as a jpeg and then print it out like you would print out a picture (I go to a store to get them printed, not my own printer).

New Queen... QFTD97

2012-01-26T17:00:00.000-07:00

Come play along with the Queen for the Day Challenge on Splitcoast.

Here are my two cards for this week's Queen (ravengirl).

For this card I used this week's layout on Splitcoast. The flowers is made with the scallop circle punch and cutting slits in it. Then I put boho blossoms overtop.

In this picture you can see Queen ravengirl's card in the background. I changed around the colors a bit.

Embossing with sponging

2012-01-23T13:13:00.002-07:00

For this card I embossed on very vanilla and sponged with crumb cake (kraft). The colors are all neutrals - vanilla, crumb cake and soft suede.

A simple card that can be used for many occasions and is easily made. It would also look wonderful in other colors!

New Queen... QFTD96

2012-01-20T08:38:00.003-07:00

My two cards for this week's Queen.

Please come join us at the Queen for the Day Challenge on Splitcoast...
http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/forums/queen-day-challenge-f311/

twine edging

2012-01-16T09:00:00.004-07:00

The technique challenge today was to use TWINE in a different way! I pierced the holes around my frame and then threaded the twine through with a needle.

I also added a little twine bow to the sentiment.

For the frame I used my scallop square to punch a hole and also rounded the corners. It is popped up over the owl (with sponging) on the island indigo paper.

I decided to do an embossed background only half way.

I think this card will end up going to my husband or one of my kids!

The owl image and sentiment are from a retired SU set "goody-goody gumdrops"

New Queen... QFTD95

2012-01-12T14:20:00.002-07:00

Come play along with the Queen for the Day Challenge.

These are the two cards I've made for this week's Queen. I was using some retired Stampin' Up! images.

Wonderful butterflies

2012-01-09T10:00:00.002-07:00

I made today's card by combining two challenges.
The Technique Lover's Challenge was to choose a technique from last year. The Technique I used was Color Blocking with a Twist. I sprayed my clear acrylic block with water and then swiped my markers across it (I used pinks and purples). Then I stamped it onto the white paper and it gives this really cool effect. I was originally going to put a larger butterfly on it, but it blocked too much of the beautiful background. So I chose to use tiny white butterflies and I put a little rhinestone on each so they are a bit easier to see.

The other challenge was the Clean & Simple Challenge to use die cuts. My die cut is the "beautiful wings embosslit".

I embossed the wisteria wonder (light purple) background and added brads to the corners. I also used my new wisteria wonder twine. The sentiment is from "fabulous phrases" and I popped it up.

New Queen... QFTD94

2012-01-05T14:34:00.003-07:00

I made these two cards for Queen Wendy this week. I hope you can come play along at the Queen for the Day Challenge.

Top Favorites of 2011

2012-01-04T20:25:00.011-07:00

Here are some of my favorite cards that I made in 2011.

New Queen... QFTD93

2011-12-29T20:01:00.002-07:00

Here are my two cards for this week's Queen.
Please come play along with the Queen for the Day Challenge that I host on Splitcoast.

New Queen... QFTD92

2011-12-22T17:10:00.000-07:00

Here are the two cards I made for this week's Queen. I hope you get a chance to play along here.

I used the triple blossom bouquet punch and popped up the top flower. I also used the new Sale-a-bration paper!

The medallion is embossed in white and I cut it out in a circle. Then I punched the inner part up and layered with scallop circle and popped it up with a clear rhinestone in the center.

New Queen.... QFTD91 & Clearance Sale

2011-12-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

Here are my two cards for the Queen for this week...
Please come play along at the Queen for the Day Challenge on Splitcoast.

By the way, Stampin' Up! announced a great clearance sale today with things up to 80% OFF. Here is the link if you want to order anything (I found some great punches on there!!!!)

My first - One Sheet Wonder!

2011-12-12T20:59:00.005-07:00

I'm getting a head start on my New Year's Resolution. I've been too scared to try doing a one sheet wonder, but it was my resolution to do it, so I dove in early (and got it all done!)

I started with a piece of 12x12 patterned paper (from the upcoming Sale-a-bration!) I planned ahead and cut pieces for my cards. I ended up with enough pieces for 13 cards!

I decided I would make it all matching and use the same supplies. I used 4 punches, 2 ribbons, twine, rhinestones and one stamp set "Short & Sweet". The colors I used matched the colors in the DSP - riding hood red, lucky limeade, pool party and white.

Here's what I came up with. I tried to use different layouts and different ideas - using the products in different ways. I hope it gives you some ideas and inspiration! I'd even say that I'd try doing this again!

Let me know which card is your favorite and which details you like best. I'm really happy with how this all turned out!

Dashing through the snow!

2011-12-12T09:57:00.002-07:00

Made this card for the clean and simple challenge today to "chill out!" I thought of making a nice snowy scene with Dasher. I have seen so many great cards with torn paper hills and glitter. Here's my attempt at it.

I stamped the medallion first, then Dasher with Staz On. I added two torn pieces of white and glitter. I pierced around the top part.

The sentiment is from Many Merry Messages and I used the word window and modern label punches and popped it up. I added brads and ribbon and some embossed dots in the background.

I'm all done Christmas shopping. Only 11 days till we leave for BC to visit family. We're going to have Christmas with our kids early before we go.
Hope you have a fantastic Christmas season!

2 Christmas this morning

2011-12-09T10:30:00.003-07:00

I had some time this morning to play. I looked up some challenges. This first card did not come out as planned for the challenge, but I just loved how the stamped panel came out with Dasher in the Snow Swirled trees, so I altered my layout and just made the card anyways. I used a lot of dazzling details glitter glue on this scene.

Colors: Lucky Limeade, Soft Suede, Pool Party
Stamps: Dasher, Snow Swirled, Sincere Salutations

I decided to try again. This second card is for the sketch at Inkspirations (the first card was originally planned to go by this layout). I used my very neglected "Season of Joy" stamp set. The poinsettias were inked first with pink, then I rock n rolled the edges red. Notice that I scored all around the edge of the card.

The patterned paper and twine on both these cards are new!

The colors are from Hand Stamped Sentiments - Blushing Bride, Real Red, Pear Pizzaz, Pool Party (I added vanilla and suede)
Stamp Set: Season of Joy

I had thought that I made enough Christmas cards a long time ago, but, I recounted today and I needed 7 more. So now I only need 5. Yippee. It's not at all a hardship for me to make more!!! (And if I do have left-over I can use them next year!)

New Queen... QFTD90

2011-12-08T14:14:00.004-07:00

I am very excited to announce our new Queen for this week. These are the two cards I made for this week's Queen - Nancy Littrell.
I hope you come and join me at the Queen for the Day Challenge.

Sketch Challenge SC362 samples

2011-12-06T17:03:00.004-07:00

Roxie asked me to help her with samples for this week's Sketch Challenge - SC362! I was so excited, I made 2 cards...

I thought I'd try using some "retired" Stampin' Up! products. One of my friends just had a baby, so I guess I was thinking of her!

This one uses the stamp set "Something for Christmas". I popped up the two ornaments on the saying and added glitter glue to all the ornaments. There are 4 textures too!

Combined Challenge Creativity

2011-12-05T10:07:00.005-07:00

I combined 4 challenges today. All the ideas just came together and I invented this fun wreath and bow all on my own!

I started by punching pieces of always artichoke cardstock with my boho blossoms and my blossom bouquet triple layer punch. I embossed the pieces and glued them on a circle to make a wreath shape. I added some buttons (TLC354 - button art!)
For the ribbon and twine I wrapped the twine in about 4 loops, then looped one piece of the ribbon around it and glued it together. (CAS147 - ways to use twine!)
Also notice how I used the sentiment! I only inked the "Merry" with artichoke, then I cleaned the stamp and inked the "Christmas" with cherry and used the stamp-a-ma-jig to place it. This makes stamps a lot more versatile when you can use parts of the stamp or reposition parts of the stamp!

The layout is from Sketch Frenzy Friday - SFF120211.
The colors are from Pals Paper Arts - PPA122 - cherry cobbler, always artichoke, very vanilla.

Top 3 card - snowboarder

2011-12-05T09:22:00.003-07:00

Yippee! I won an award. This card was picked as Top 3 for this sketch from Techno Stamper blog!

Sweet Cake II - Boy Birthday card

2011-12-03T11:45:00.003-07:00

This one is using the same set as yesterday - the new Stampin' Up! "Sweet Cake". I cut out and popped up the cupcake.

The layout is from Clean & Simple Stamping - Fall-to-Layout 169.

New Mini Product - Sweet Cake

2011-12-02T14:39:00.002-07:00

It's that time of year again - I'm not talking about Christmas - it's the new SU! mini catalogue and sale-a-bration coming up in January!!!!

This is a new stamp set from the new mini called "Sweet Cake". It comes with 3 really nice sentiments.

I used crimping on the brown piece and embossed the whole card with dots.

The color combo is: Pool Party, Calypso Coral, Daffodil Delight, Whisper White and Chocolate Chip!

I punched out the sentiment using word window punch and modern label punch and added some brads and ripping. The main image is stamped on 4 different pieces of paper, cut out and glued together (paper piecing).

New Queen... QFTD89

2011-12-01T18:07:00.000-07:00

My two cards for Queen Wendy this week. Please come play along with the Queen for the Day Challenge.

You might not be able to tell from this photo - For the background of this card I inked up my Simply Scored and used my brayer to transfer the ink in a striped pattern! A cool tip I learned at my Stampin' Up! Regional event.

New Queen.... QFTD88

2011-11-24T19:08:00.000-07:00

My two cards for the Queen this week. Hope you can come play along with this challenge that I host on Splitcoast - Queen for the Day Challenge

Window - Tidings of Comfort & Joy

2011-11-23T08:16:00.003-07:00

I started with a really fun sketch from Splitcoast. I thought I'd make a window card with Movers & Shapers, but I just ended up using my decorative label punch!

Colors are from Inkspirations - Real Red, Bashful Blue, Kraft, Very Vanilla.

Stampin' Up! supplies: crumb cake patterned paper, scallop edge, blue satin ribbon, circle die, decorative label punch.

Stamp set: Word Play - I used crumb cake, real red and bashful blue to color it.
I even decorated the inside of the card!

Celebrate Color Cupcake

2011-11-22T12:44:00.002-07:00

I made this card for today's color challenge on Splitcoast. Blushing Bride, Pear Pizazz and Marina Mist.

I used the cupcake punch, boho blossoms punch, tasteful trim die, crimping, embossing and scoring.

I embellished with clear rhinestones and ribbon! The sentiment is from a retired Stampin' Up! set - Something to Celebrate! The cupcake is popped up on the white square with dimensionals.

New Queen... QFTD87

2011-11-18T08:42:00.003-07:00

The two cards I created for Queen Carol this week. Queen for the Day is a challenge I host on Splitcoast. I hope you come check it out!

It's Snowing

2011-11-17T09:19:00.004-07:00

It snowed last night and what a timely challenge on Splitcoast about cold weather!

I decided to use the layout from last week Clean & Simple - Fall-to-Layout 165.

The colors are: Pool Party, Marina Mist and white patterned paper. I added shimmer with glitter glue and rhinestones.

I used GoGo Boots alphabet die, snowflakes die, tasteful trim die and white twine. The stamp set is Snow Swirled.

Cheerful Sweetheart

2011-11-16T15:16:00.002-07:00

This card I made for the sketch at Splitcoast today. I used the stamp set "Sweetheart". I used embossing, crimping and floral fusion die, a button and a ribbon. I punched a heart for the middle and embossed it.

The colors are: Daffodil Delight, Wild Wasabi and Real Red

Happy Blossom

2011-11-15T09:25:00.003-07:00

My card for today's color challenge. Lucky Coral Breezes.

I used the layout from Sketch Frenzy Friday.

I used the triple blossom bouquet punch with boho blossoms. Also, the corner rounder, decorative label punch, tasteful trim die and my new lucky limeade ribbon!

Autumn Days card

2011-11-12T09:45:00.003-07:00

Thought I'd make a masculine card using Autumn Days and some great fall colors.
Island Indigo, Lucky Limeade, Chocolate Chip, Cajun Craze, Very Vanilla.

I used woodgrain for the background, ripping and embossing. Here's a close up...

New Queen... QFTD86

2011-11-11T16:00:00.001-07:00

My two cards for the Queen this week.

Hope you can join me at the Queen for the Day Challenge.

Christmas chickadee

2011-11-09T11:09:00.002-07:00

I made this card for today's layout on Splitcoast.

I got to use some of my new goodies - ribbon, Tasteful Trim die and neutrals patterned paper.

I stamped in soft suede and sponged around it. I stamped another chickadee and cut it out and popped it up.

The ribbon is just looped around and glued together with a button on top.

New Queen... QFTD85

2011-11-03T21:15:00.000-06:00

Here are my two cards for this week's Queen.
Please come play along here.

3 Christmas with mom

2011-11-02T08:10:00.003-06:00

My mom is here to visit and we've been having fun making cards! Here are the 3 we made together yesterday using various challenges.

Colors - More Mustard, Always Artichoke, Bravo Burgundy, Black, Vanilla
Stamps - Gifts of Christmas, Something for Christmas

Colors - Vanilla, Riding Hood Red, Chocolate Chip
Stamps - Something for Christmas

Colors - Vanilla, Black, Baja Breeze, Certainly Celery, Bashful Blue
Stamps - Something for Christmas

Two cards for Christmas

2011-10-25T10:31:00.003-06:00

This card was for the Clean and Simple layout challenge. I used the retired "Two Cool Dudes" set.

This card is for two challenges.

Technique - use small stamps to stamp around your image
Colors - Baja Breeze, Island Indigo, Rich Razzleberry

New Queen... QFTD83

2011-10-20T18:34:00.002-06:00

Please come over and play with the Queen for the Day Challenge.

Here are the two cards I made for this week's Queen!

I'm a WINNER - PPA pick!

2011-10-19T07:34:00.005-06:00

I'm so excited! My card was one of 3 winners picked at Pals Paper Arts this week! (out of 97 entries!)

My card...

This card was inspired by a card on Splitcoast by atsamom.

I made this card for my brother for his birthday.

New Queen... QFTD82

2011-10-13T19:07:00.000-06:00

These cards are for this week's Queen - Joan Ervin! Please come play along with the Queen for the Day Challenge on Splitcoast.

I made this card by embossing the LEAVES from French Foliage. I popped up the kraft panel on a kraft card base. The sentiment (Many Merry Messages) is also embossed in gold. I added some pearls to the center.

For this card I used Joan's technique of STACKED BACKGROUND. I used woodgrain and fifth ave floral. To match Joan's style I embellished and used LOTS of details!

Stacked Background - Medallion Christmas

2011-10-10T09:08:00.004-06:00

I made this card with the help of two challenges.

Technique Challenge at Splitcoast - Stacked Background - I first stamped my French Filigree swirl background stamp with crumb cake/kraft ink (on vanilla textured paper). Then I used soft suede and stamped some snowflakes from snow swirled. Then I used Cherry Cobbler and stamped the medallion image.

I stamped the medallion again and punched it out with a circle. The circle is popped up and I used the new dazzling details glitter glue and a clear rhinestone.

I layered soft suede dotted scallop ribbon border, lace trim, red ribbon and a sentiment.

The layout comes from Clean & Simple Stamping - Fall To Layout #161

New Queen... QFTD81

2011-10-06T21:20:00.000-06:00

Two cards for this week's Queen for the Day.
Please come join the Queen for the Day Challenge here.

Single Stamp - Something for Christmas

2011-10-04T09:08:00.002-06:00

I just got this stamp yesterday! I really think it's overlooked. When I saw the new catalogue I just loved it. It's a single stamp and I think will be very versatile (especially if you just ink parts of the stamp!)

I was excited to use it today with the color challenge - more mustard, soft suede, tangerine tango. I wouldn't have picked these colors for a Christmas card, but that's what challenges are all about. I really love how it turned out.

I inked my embossing folder with soft suede. I ripped the edges and added sponging, and even curled the edges up to give it a vintage look (to go with these colors).

2 leaves and FREE BIG SHOT!

2011-10-03T16:46:00.002-06:00

Here are two more cards I made with the French Foliage set.

I also wanted to mention that Stampin' Up! is doing a promotion for the month of October. If you sign up to become a demonstrator you get a BIG SHOT for FREE!

Even if you don't see yourself as a "salesperson" it's still a great deal to join and get the discount for yourself! You can see my website or let me know if you have any more questions.

New Queen... QFTD80

2011-09-30T10:59:00.003-06:00

Here are my cards for this week's Queen. Please feel free to come play along at Splitcoast Queen for the Day Challenge.

The third card was made for Queen Dawn for her Free for All Challenge.

Emboss Resist Leaves

2011-09-29T15:39:00.002-06:00

Here's another card I made with the French Foliage stamp set. This set works awesome with the emboss resist technique.

I also colored one leaf with markers and cut it out.

Operation Christmas Child - 4

2011-09-24T22:00:00.000-06:00

My finds for this month for Samaritan's Purse - Operation Christmas Child. You can find the information about them on their web site.

I've been collecting items throughout the year to make 15 boxes. The boxes are almost full! It's been a really fun project. My kids love to help me shop for the kids and pack the boxes too. I let my daughter help me fill the girl boxes and my son fills the boy boxes.

Some of the items I found this month...
- crayons
- books
- little ball maze puzzles
- skipping ropes
- candy
- Sudoku puzzles
- little toy animals
- magnetic game
- hair combs
- hair ties for the girls
- pencil cases
- kazoo

Keep in mind if you are packing your box... It is helpful to put the soap in a bag and the candy in a bag. Remember if you are sending candy it MUST be HARD candy (baked candy ie Werthers, not just packed sugar ie. rockets or gum). This is a customs regulation.

I got a box of 50 ziploc baggies for a dollar and was able to bag everything separately. This saves them the trouble of having to bag it when they are checking through the boxes in the warehouse.

New Queen... QFTD79

2011-09-24T11:25:00.001-06:00

My two cards for this week's Queen. Come play along with the Queen for the Day Challenge.

Lovely French Foliage

2011-09-20T11:02:00.003-06:00

I just love this stamp set! I love it so much I'm offering a CLASS on it! So I'll be coming up with lots of great samples the next couple weeks showcasing this set!

These leaves look so great colored in with markers!

By the way, this card is for the color challenge - old olive, pumpkin pie, and turquoise (which I don't have, so I used Pool Party!)

Let me know if you're interested in my class - it's on Wednesday, October 5th.

New Queen... QFTD78

2011-09-15T20:21:00.000-06:00

Here are my cards for this week's Queen...

I used "Autumn Days" and "Word Play". For both cards I used this week's color challenge from Splitcoast (pool party, peach parfait and poppy parade - I added some neutrals too.) I used the dotted ribbon scallop punch and brads, the oval punch and decorative label punch - I love how these layer!

I used my decorative label punch and cut it in half to layer behind the circles. I popped up a smaller circle to give even more dimension. Clear rhinestones and ribbon finish it off. The sentiment is from "Three Little Words"

Framed Opening

2011-09-12T10:21:00.008-06:00

This card is for the Technique Challenge today to create a framed opening through your card front, then glue images overtop it.

I used the Top Note.

I used a circle mask to sponge on the inside of my card.
I stamped the greeting and snowflakes with versamark then embossed.

On the front I embossed a Christmas tree and added brads and cut it out.
I glued the crimped red piece across the front of the card for stability, and added the tree on it. I added some twine and a vintage brad to finish it off.

I really love how this turned out, although it was fairly difficult and time consuming to make.

Celebrate Uncharted Territories

2011-09-09T10:39:00.003-06:00

I made this card today for 3 challenges.

Free for All Challenge on Splitcoast - paper piecing. That means stamping on colored or patterned paper and cutting out different pieces to put together an image. I stamped the boat on orange and the sun and shirt on yellow.

The layout is from Clean & Simple Stamping blog - Fall to Layout 157.

The colors are from Stampin' Royalty - Concord Crush, Tangerine Tango, Certainly Celery, Daffodil Delight.

I stamped the sentiment 4 times for a fun effect. I also crumpled the dark purple. I added piercing, a punched border and twine.

Stamp Sets: Uncharted Territories, Fabulous Phrases, Sprinkles (retired set)

New Queen... QFTD77

2011-09-08T19:44:00.000-06:00

I guess I was feeling Christmas-y this week as I made the cards for this week's Queen.
Come on Splitcoast and play along with the Queen for the Day Challenge.

The first card uses a retired set "Two Cool Dudes". I had fun inking it up with yellow, then rock and roll orange. I really like how it turned out. I also stamped snowflakes on the orange piece which you can't really see in the picture. The background is embossed and I used ribbon and 3 rhinestones to finish it off. This card was also for the color challenge this week - Always Artichoke, So Saffron, Cajun Craze.

For this card I used my favorite new set "Beautiful Season" and I stamped the bird first. I cut out a mask to lay overtop the stamped image and stamped the background stamp "French Filigree" and sponged. Added some fun ribbon and button embellishments and also STAPLES!

Two cards for SC349

2011-09-07T14:26:00.002-06:00

I made TWO cards for the awesome sketch today on Splitcoast...

Using the beautiful wings embosslit, and butterfly die. Also used houndsooth embossing folder, twine and a vintage brad.

Made with the new Beautiful Season stamp set. I folded the black piece in half and then crimped for a great pattern!

Blue, Purple and Gray

2011-09-05T14:34:00.002-06:00

I haven't had a chance in the last few days to make a card so I thought I'd upload this one that I made on Friday.

I used the Top Note die and two challenges - to criss cross strips of paper and to honour Featured Stamper Lydia (Understand Blue) on Splitcoast Stampers.

QFTD76 - Choose your own Queen

2011-09-02T09:49:00.003-06:00

The challenge I gave at Queen for the Day Challenge was to CHOOSE your own.
Come join us here.

I made 3 cards for previous Queens...

Operation Christmas Child - 4

2011-08-27T09:14:00.004-06:00

Here are my finds for the Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes I'm making.
I took advantage of some back to school sales.

I got Pencil Crayons (with sharpener) for $1.24. I got packs of paper for 25 cents. I also got some packs of pencils and I bought Rubbermaid boxes to put everything in.

Operation Christmas Child does provide boxes, but I just thought it would be a useful item for them to have a good sturdy box. When I was volunteering last year, I asked about different shaped boxes (or backpacks) and they don't mind at all if people use them. I even saw a really nice TOOL box that was packed with stuff for a boy. And some people used backpacks too!

Some things to remember when packing your shoeboxes:
- don't send anything that will break (mirrors, glass, etc)
- don't send any liquids (not even shampoo or toothpaste)
- the ONLY type of food or candy you can send is HARD candy!
- NO USED items
- nothing that will scare or harm a child (no toy guns, etc)

These are SHIPPING REGULATIONS that Samaritan's Purse must abide by in order to deliver these boxes to other countries.

If you want to check out this fun project to help kids you can look at the link here (this is the Canadian site, but I believe they also do this through the US)

New Queen... QFTD75

2011-08-26T08:41:00.003-06:00

Linda/Holstein is our Queen for this week. Come play along with the Queen for the Day (QFTD) challenge on Splitcoast Stampers.

For this card I used "Autumn Days" and houndsooth embossing folder.

I used lots of dies and punches here! The envelope die, beautiful wings embosslit, boho blossoms punch, heart punch, vintage wallpaper embossing folder, pearls and dotted scallop ribbon!

Thanks a Million leaves

2011-08-23T16:17:00.002-06:00

My card inspired by Korin, Splitcoast Stampers Featured Stamper this week.

I used French Foliage and Word Play. Embellished with some embossing, two ribbons and brads.

Cards this week

2011-08-20T08:34:00.002-06:00

Here are the cards I've made this week and haven't posted yet. I thought I'd share them all in one post.

Let me know which is your favorite!

New Queen... QFTD74

2011-08-19T09:39:00.002-06:00

My cards for this week's Queen. You can come play along on Splitcoast Stampers Queen for the Day Challenge.

I embossed French Filigree with silver for this card.

I stamped with versamark and then applied pastels to this image from Beautiful Season. I also used some retired silver cord and a retired punch.

FTL Leaves

2011-08-13T09:51:00.002-06:00

I haven't played with online challenges for SO LONG and this morning I really wanted to make the time to do it! I chose some of my favorite blog challenges and combined two. I really wanted to make use of my new French Foliage set.

The layout is from Clean & Simple Fall-To-Layouts. FTL153.

The colors are from Create, Ink. ColorLab color challenge 52. Pool Party, Not Quite Navy and So Saffron. I used Soft Suede and Crumb Cake also as neutrals.

I stamped the dots with versamark and the leaves and sentiment with Staz On Black to get a really crips image.

New Queen... QFTD73

2011-08-11T20:44:00.000-06:00

My two cards for our Queen this week. Come play along on Splitcoast at the Queen for the Day Challenge.

Here's a close up. I used the Manhattan floral embossing folder and the new Four Frames set. I really like how this one turned out.

This one used the new houndsooth embossing folder.
The colors are from this week's color challenge - kraft, red and yellow.

some summer family pics

2011-08-10T12:54:00.003-06:00

Here are some pictures from this summer. The kids sure are growing up fast!

Desirae is 5 and will be going to Kindergarten this fall. She's so excited!
Myron is 3 and is talking quite a bit more.

They are great friends and love to play together!

The whole family. I always love getting family pictures done.

New Queen... QFTD72

2011-08-04T21:42:00.000-06:00

StampingOut is Queen this week on Splitcoast. I hope you come play along.

Here are the two cards I made for her...

I used the new Beautiful Season stamp set. I inked it in only crumb cake and gray. Then I slightly colored in some areas after it was stamped.

This card is using Awash with Flowers. I added some fun rows of piercing and a couple strips of scallop ribbon border punch. The razzleberry background is stamped with the `dots` from French Foliage.

New Queen... QFTD71

2011-07-29T08:26:00.004-06:00

I made this card for the Queen this week on Splitcoast. I'd love to have you come visit this challenge that I host and come play along. You can find it here.

I used the color challenge Island Indigo (new In Color), Daffodil Delight and Cajun Craze (I didn't have Tangerine Tango). I must say I'm having a lot of fun with the New In Colors and I think Island Indigo might be my favorite.

I used the triple punch blossom bouquet and also boho blossoms to layer with and I scrunched them up for some more dimension.

French Foliage with a sketch

2011-07-27T09:48:00.002-06:00

This is my first time using French Foliage. What a great and versatile set! I used today's sketch at Splitcoast and made this really clean & simple.

I embellished with houndsooth embossing, twine and an antique brad.

New Queen... QFTD70

2011-07-21T20:39:00.000-06:00

Here are my two cards for this week's Queen. You can come play along with the Queen for the Day Challenge on Splitcoast.

I got to play with some BLUES here. The new Pool Party and Island Indigo paired with Not Quite Navy, crumb cake and ivory. I think I have a new favorite color! I just love that Island Indigo! And it looks so great with Pool Party!

For this card I used the Christmas set "Gift of Christmas".

I loved Julia's original card making use of patterned papers. I really didn't change her design much at all. I got to show off some fabulous patterned paper and it really doesn't even use up much paper at all.

I used two retired sets "Four Square" and "So Many Sayings".

Operation Christmas Child - 3

2011-07-21T12:31:00.002-06:00

Here are my finds for Operation Christmas Child this time.

If you want to find out more about Operation Christmas Child by Samaritan's Purse you can find it here.

I would like to make 15 shoeboxes this year. I have been buying things here and there throughout the year. These shirts were only $3 or $4 each.
I also found stencils which I thought could be a fun thing for them.

Boy shirts in 3 different sizes for 3 different age groups.

Girl shirts in 3 different sizes for 3 different age groups.

Wisteria Wonder for baby

2011-07-20T19:55:00.004-06:00

I finally have my new In Colors and have been able to start playing with them. I thought "Wisteria Wonder" (aka light purple) would be great for a baby girl card. I paired it with Pretty in Pink, Soft Suede, So Saffron and white.

I used some retired stamp sets: Bundle of Joy and Occasional Quotes.
Used my new embossing folder Houndsooth. I embellished with crimping, white twine and a button!

new stuff for Christmas

2011-07-18T07:47:00.003-06:00

Yipee. So excited about new catalogue stuff!
I got the set "Beautiful Season". Isn't it beautiful!!
Other new stuff - houndsooth embossing folder and black scallop dots ribbon (the other side of the ribbon does not have dots)

I also got all the new colors. I'm so excited. For this card I thought I'd try Calypso Coral with Cherry Cobbler, black and white.

The bird is colored, cut out and popped up. I sponged the edges with cherry cobbler.

New Queen... QFTD69

2011-07-14T20:49:00.000-06:00

Here are my two cards for this week's Queen...
You can play along with the Queen for the Day Challenge here.

For this card I used the color challenge - baja breeze, not quite navy and cherry cobbler. What stunning colors!!!

I used the sketch from Inkspirations.

I embossed the trees in white and also sponged and embossed around it. I used the sets "Season of Joy" and "Short & Sweet"

Baby Boy card -with retired stuff

2011-07-11T12:25:00.002-06:00

Here's a fun sketch on the Clean & Simple challenge today. I thought it would make a great baby card. My friend requested some baby and wedding cards and I really don't have any in my stash so I needed to make some.

I used retired sets "Well Scripted" and "Sprinkles"
The scallops I made by punching out circles and layering them.

New Queen... QFTD68

2011-07-07T22:00:00.000-06:00

Our new Queen is crowned. Queen for the Day #68. You can play along with the challenge here on Splitcoast Stampers.

Here are my two cards for Queen Roxie...

Both cards are using the set "Fifth Ave Floral".

New Queen... QFTD67

2011-06-30T20:30:00.000-06:00

There's a New Queen around. You can come check it out and play along on Splitcoast Stampers here

My cards for Queen Nancy...

New Queen.... QFTD66

2011-06-24T07:57:00.003-06:00

My cards for today's Queen - Marie (aka momof5sons). You can check out the Queen for the Day challenge here and play along!

some Stampin' Up! reminders

2011-06-23T14:26:00.003-06:00

Just in case you're in the Red Deer area and are interested in Stampin' Up!

You can check out my website (http://trishg.stampinup.net) for any of these details, or contact me for more information...

On Wednesday July 6th I'm hosting the BIGGEST Stampin Party of the Summer!
Come to make cards and eat some great snacks and have a lot of fun!

Cost $10
Bring a friend and YOU AND YOUR FRIEND get to come for HALF PRICE!!!!

We'll be making cards.
I'm going to be having a "garage sale" of some of my stuff - so come to get a great deal!
The NEW CATALOGUE will be available and you can order from it if you wish.

Keep in mind - Stampin' Up! is retiring product till the end of June to make space for their new products. If you want to order anything before it's gone, now is the time! You can order from my website or contact me.

In the FALL I will be starting up a new monthly club for people interested in making their products more VERSATILE. It'll be a LOT of FUN! Contact me for more information!

Second Christmas set

2011-06-21T17:15:00.004-06:00

I made another set of Christmas cards. This time with Dasher!

I used the layout from Clean & Simple Stamping - Fall-to-Layout 145

The colors on 2 of the cards are from Inkspirations - 74 - Basic Gray, Melon Mambo, Old Olive and White

These cards will be for sale if you want them, or you can order any other cards.

card for a friend

2011-06-17T08:36:00.003-06:00

This card is for my friend Wanda! Today's challenge on Splitcoast was to be inspired by the gallery of an on-line friend. This is Wanda's card. Let me tell you the story about Wanda...

When I lived way up in Northern Alberta I participated in a swap in which Wanda was a part! Later she contacted me to buy supplies because she noticed I was a Stampin' Up! demonstrator. The really cool part was that she lived in Alberta too! A few months later we actually moved 10 hours South (still in Alberta). I knew that Wanda lived less than 30 min from where we were moving so it was exciting to have a REAL life person that I knew before we moved (because I didn't know anyone else here). We got to meet and have gotten together a few times to make cards! Thanks Wanda, for making my move a lot easier. You are such a sweet person and I always enjoy spending time with you.

The challenge the other day was to use VELLUM (which I often forget about) so I included 2 vellum butterflies on my card (can you see them?) I also wanted to use my new blossom bouquet punch.

Other details: Beatiful Wings embosslit, pretty in pink ribbon, 2 rows of piercing, brads, embossed background, clear rhinestones and 2 scallop edges.

New Queen... QFTD65

2011-06-16T18:30:00.000-06:00

Here are my 2 cards for the new Queen this week.
You can play along at Splitcoast Stampers every week!

This first card uses Embossing, Emboss resist technique and sponging. First I stamped the images and embossed with black. Then I used a white crayon to draw on some areas. I sponged different colors on the image, then carefully wiped so that the ink would come off the crayon parts.

This card uses the color combination on Splitcoast - Old Olive, Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla. I used the negative image of the leaves and embossed it! Love how it turned out!

My Store

2011-06-15T13:28:00.003-06:00

Ok, I'm venturing into the world of ETSY to try to sell my cards. Here's my store link...

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Sara2April

Wish me well!

(Sara and April were the names of our dogs, which have since died).

Right now I have 10 listings. I have lots more for sale, but am trying just a few first. I have some sets and some single card listings.

First 2011 Christmas cards

2011-06-12T21:47:00.003-06:00

My first Chrismtas cards of the year! I am really hoping to be able to sell a lot of cards for Christmas so this year I'll try to make more SETS of cards. It's a whole lot quicker!

The medallion image is embossed with gold. I made 6 cards, 2 of each color.

If you would like to order Christmas cards from me I'd be happy to make you some! The earlier you let me know, the better it is to get them all done in time for you to mail out for Christmas!

Some favorite blog challenges

2011-06-10T21:27:00.003-06:00

I haven't had a chance to play along with any challenges recently. Organizing the Queen Challenge has kept me busy with that so that I don't spend nearly as much time playing in other challenges. I made an effort tonight just to have some fun stamping time to play some challenges that I've been missing.

I combined two of my favorite challenges for this card. Create, Ink! ColorLab Color Challenge #43 - not quite navy, riding hood red, early espresso. I knew this would be a great combo!
I used the layout from my Clean & Simple Stamping - Fall to Layout #143.

I thought I'd try out Awash with Flowers. I doodled the stem and used alternating red and blue. I've neglected this sentiment and it was the perfect size and shape for this sketch. I did some cutting out of the box with the sentiment and flower, added some piercing, embossing, punches and a baker's twine bow.

New Queen... QFTD64

2011-06-09T10:22:00.003-06:00

Hello there. Here are the two cards I made for this week's Queen.
You can play along on Splitcoast at the Queen for the Day Challenge.

I used my new Triple Blossom Punch, what fun! I also used the color combo - pink pirouette, melon mambo, regal rose and some white twine and a button.

For this card I punched out a circle and used the negative space as a mask to sponge on color. Then I stamped the flower overtop.

Both cards have piercing which was this week's Ways to Use It Challenge

New Queen... QFTD63

2011-06-02T20:00:00.001-06:00

Here are the cards I made for this week's Queen. Come play along with the Queen for the Day Challenge.

New Queen... QFTD62

2011-05-26T21:20:00.001-06:00

You can join us with the Queen for the Day Challenge on Splitcoast!

Here are the cards I made this week for Queen Pam!

Stars and Brads

2011-05-26T08:15:00.002-06:00

I made this card for two challenges today.
Ways to Use it - STARS
Pals Paper Arts - BRADS

I knew I wanted to make a "guy" card so I reached for this extreme stamp. The background is texturz plate embossing. I also distressed and ripped and sponged.
I used the stars and brads to lead the eye in the path of the bike. I also used the brads on the bike!

I left a sentiment off for now so I could use it for a generic male card for now, and if I need a sentiment I can add it either to the front of the card, or the inside.

2 CAS DT entries

2011-05-22T21:03:00.003-06:00

Here are two cards I made for the Clean and Simple design team tryout.

The first card was to make a "beach" scene and also have an image popped up.
I pieced my boat and also popped up the sail with Stampin Dimensionals.

This second card was for a color challenge - Chocolate, Peach and Sand.
I did "faux stitching" around the edge. The oranges and sentiment are embossed with white and I added 2 rhinestones on my card.

New Queen... QFTD61

2011-05-19T22:25:00.000-06:00

I'd love for you to come play along with the Queen challenge on Splitcoast. This week's crown goes to Joanne.
Here are the two cards I made for her...

New Queen.... QFTD60

2011-05-13T14:42:00.003-06:00

These cards are for Queen Anne Ryan.
I'd LOVE to have you come play along with the Queen for the Day Challenge on Splitcoast.

Sorry, I didn't post this sooner. My blogger was not working yesterday and this morning.

Featured Technique - Colored Embossing

2011-05-08T21:10:00.000-06:00

The idea of Markers coloring embossing folders is the featured technique on Splitcoast!!! I made a second card showing this fun technique. I colored my flowers pink and red. The embossing is on pink pirouette textured paper. I rounded the corners, added leaves, clear rhinestones and butterflies (they cover up some of the bigger blobs of color that got in the wrong spot!)

Thanks for looking!
I'm excited to see what everyone comes up with for this challenge!
You can play along with the Technique Lovers Challenge on Splitcoast here.

Flower Pocket

2011-05-06T20:44:00.004-06:00

This card was made for FUN! I made it for the Free For All Challenge on Splitcoast to make a pocket card and use a technique. I've never tied a ribbon in my clip before (totally cute with the new Baker's Twine!) I did the "bandanna" technique on the pumpkin pie piece. I stamped French Filigree then just doodled around it with white gel pen.

The colors are from Create, Ink! ColorLab challenge - Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie (I used Early Espresso and white as neutrals). This is one of my favorite challenges and I have been so busy the last few weeks it seems. I really tried to make an effort to include this challenge - just for fun!

The old olive piece is decorated with the flower and clip and it pulls out of the pocket.

New Queen.... QFTD59

2011-05-05T22:40:00.001-06:00

Welcome here. These cards are for this week's QUEEN FOR THE DAY (the challenge that I host on Splitcoast Stampers). YOU can play along here.

These cards are for Queen Faith (Markie's Mom). To make this first card I also used this week's gorgeous color challenge - Cherry Cobbler, Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla and black. I loved using texture on this one. I doodled on the flowers and also did faux stitching.

To make this card I also used the Ways to Use it Challenge - sweet treats (it fit perfectly with Faith's card that I picked!) The red panel and also the cupcake are popped up.

I am LOVING the new Stampin' Up! twine. I got all 3 colors!

Colored Embossing

2011-05-04T10:11:00.003-06:00

This card is for today's Splitcoast sketch challenge.
I used the colors Soft Suede, Night of Navy, Marina Mist and Very Vanilla. Embellished with a vintage brad, photo corner punch and a clear rhinestone.

I created the pattern by coloring my embossing folder with markers. It actually gets the best effect if you SPRITZ with water. Here are some of the other patterns I created using markers on a variety of embossing folders.

2011-05-01T21:20:00.002-06:00

Another Hydrangea card. This one I made at my card classes this week.
I started with More Mustard and tried a bunch of different colors to find one that works well with it. I LOVE what I came up with - More Mustard, Cherry Cobbler and black.

I colored the flower with lighter red and darker red in some places. Love the embossed background and Cherry Cobbler ribbon!

New Queen... QFTD58

2011-04-28T22:35:00.000-06:00

This week it's the Queen of Red herself... jdmommy (Anne).
You can play along with the Queen for the Day challenge that I host on Splitcoast Stampers

For this card I was inspired by Queen Anne's lovely bird card. I don't have any bird stamps like this, so I thought I'd use my bird punch! I got to have some fun with inked embossing! I sponged a paper flower and added a few layers of red floral fusion and an antique brad. The corners are clipped with the scallop edge punch. I made this card in CHERRY COBBLER in honour of Queen Anne's favorite color!

Here you can see some of the details better.

For this card I was inspired by Anne's beautiful flower card. I kept the layout but changed the flower stamp. I tried to add some shadow with a marker to make it look more realistic and 3D. The reds I used here are BRAVO BURGUNDY and RIDING HOOD RED. I also used antique brads on this one. The flower is actually cut out of the frame and I added a few layers and ripped one edge.

New Queen.... QFTD57

2011-04-21T22:00:00.000-06:00

If you want to play along with this challenge on Splitcoast here's the link for the QUEEN FOR THE DAY CHALLENGE

I made these two cards in honour of Benzi (Brenda).

This card uses the EMBEDDED EMBOSSING technique! Very cool technique - I love it. You just glue layers together and emboss all of it in your embossing folder all at once!

I really liked her fun layout and colors. I used Flower for All Seasons, Vintage Vogue and Elegant Thank You.

Hope you have a very BLESSED Easter and are overflowing with THANKFULNESS!

New Queen... QFTD56

2011-04-14T21:57:00.000-06:00

You can find the Queen for the Day Challenge that I host on Splitcoast. Anyone is welcome to join in and play along.

Here are the two cards I made for the new Queen this week. CarrollAnn (MrsBoz)

For this card I punched the bird and branches in black. I colored my medallion with markers and spritzed with water before stamping.

I used the sketch from this week (and flipped it all around) to create this card. I was inspired by her use of the Autumn Days set.

Spring Awash

2011-04-13T09:30:00.003-06:00

I combined the layout and the colors from this week at Splitcoast. This card also works for this week's Stampin' Royalty theme - SPRING!

The stamp sets I used - Awash with Flowers, Four Frames and Hodgepodge Happiness.