Stampin' Pretty - My Fun & Chic Stampin' Up! Boutique

Hand Drawn Birthday

Stay Tuned!  There's so much happening in the next 24 hours with Stampin' Up! products and promotions. 

• May 31 marks the last day of the May Promotions and the special $75 Demonstrator Start-Up Kit. 
• On June 1, I'll be ready to post (as soon as they are released) the Stampin' Up! Last Chance Stamp and Accessories Lists (formerly called the "retired" lists).  The Summer Fun Hostess Bonus Promotion kicks off, too.
  
• To top it all off, tomorrow morning (June 1) at 7:00 a.m., the latest Mojo Monday design will be strutting it's stuff on my Stampin' Pretty blog.

REMEMBER:  All these Stampin' Up! promotions (including hostess promotions) are available with a qualifying on-line order.  Supplies will be limited and sell out quickly on the Last Chance Lists.

Today's card relies on the Party Hearty stamp set and the fun and colorful designs from the Hand Drawn Designer Series Paper (Hostess Level 3).  Loving all the goodies in the Hand Drawn Bundle (see below for all that's included)?  Team up with a friend, place your order on-line and earn this bundle of designer paper, rub-ons and coordinating stamps free.  Plus, take advantage of the additional hostess free merchandise for qualifying orders (workshops or on-line) placed in June.

• This card starts with the "b" stamp from Party Hearty inked in Baja Breeze and stamped on Whisper White card stock.
• The "b" was stamped again in Riding Hood Red and the center clipped with a 3/4" Circle Punch.
• I added a Circle Rhinestone Brad (Ice) to the center and adhered the circle to the center of the "b" with a Stampin' Dimensional.
• TIP:  Suffering from a "brad leg hangover?" Stampin' Up! Craft & Rubber Scissors (103179) easily snip off brad "legs" so they don't stick out on smaller elements.
• The image was matted on Riding Hood Red and Certainly Celery card stock.
• The sentiment was stamped in Riding Hood Red on Whisper White card stock.
• I adhered the sentiment with Stampin' Dimensionals to layered rectangles of Riding Hood Red and Certainly Celery.
• Two amusing patterns from Hand Drawn Designer Series were adhered to a 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" Whisper White card base (scored on the top).
• The final touches were three Circle Rhinestone Brads (Fire) and a gorgeous strip of Ribbon Originals Riding Hood Red Dress Up Ribbon.

Bye Bye Baja Breeze . . . if you love Baja Breeze, Riding Hood Red, Kiwi Kiss, Pacific Point, Pink Pirouette and Tangerine Tango, keep in mind that all designer paper, card stock, ink and accessories with these colors will be retired when the new catalog is released on July 1.  Be sure to stock up on your favorites before it's too late!



To Order Stampin' Up! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Stamp Set:  Party Hearty (111532)
Paper:  Hand Drawn Designer Series Paper (115535, Hostess Level 3), Whisper White (100730), Riding Hood Red (111348), Certainly Celery (105125)
Ink:  Baja Breeze (111833), Riding Hood Red (111836)
Cool Tools:  3/4" Circle Punch (107217)
The Perfect Touch:  Circle Rhinestone Brads Ice (109111), Circle Rhinestone Brads Fire (10910), Dress Up Ribbon Originals (114317)

Cindy's Thank You

I wanted to share a gorgeous thank you card I received from Canadian Stampin' Up! demonstrator, Cindy Major.  She's such a sweetie and this was a charming "merci" for the color challenge I did on her blog as a guest stamper.

The key ingredients are the Manhattan Flower Textured Impressions Die (114517, adds amazing dimension) and the Branch Out (113200) stamp set.  I love the color combination of Kraft and Orchid Opulence.  The edges received a little dolling up with Whisper White Craft Ink (101731).  This really defines the scalloped edge.

Even the envelope is beautiful.  She added the Branch Out tree and the sparkly detail of a row of stick-on rhinestones . . . they hung on for the entire trip from Cindy's to my mailbox.  Very determined little guys!

DON'T FORGET!  May 31 marks the end of terrific Stampin' Up! Specials.  CLICK HERE for details.



To Order Stampin' Up! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!

June Summer Fun Promotion

Team up with a friend!  Hold a catalog party.  The Stampin' Up! Summer Fun Hostess Bonus Promotion is going to be hot, hot, hot:

Dates: June 1-30, 2009

Promotion Details:

• Customers who either host a workshop or place an on-line product order from $250-$399.99 will receive an additional $20 in hostess free merchandise dollars.
• Customers who either host a workshopp or place an on-line product order of $400 or more will receive an additional $40 in hostess free merchandise dollars.

With the release on June 1 of Stampin' Up!'s Last Chance Stamps and Accessories (formerly referred to as "retired"), you can stock up on your favorites and earn additional hostess free merchandise with the Summer Fun Promotion.

NOTE:  All hostess benefits are available with an individual on-line customer order.

TIP:  For a an always up-to-date list of "What's On Sale?" at Stampin' Up!, please see my right side bar!

Par-Fect Father's Day

Today's Father's Day card is a challenge extravaganza.  I combined Splitcoast Color Challenge CC 220  and Sketch Challenge SC230.  Sassy Stampin' Denise January, from my Stampin' Pretty Pals downline, suggested the colors for this week's SCS challenge:  So Saffron, Pumpkin Pie and Bashful Blue.  Here's her sample card,  Congrats, Denise!

• The Whisper White card base is 5 1/4" x 5 1/4", scored on the top.
• The "dad" image is from "And Many Mower" (Stampin' Up! Occasions Mini Catalog).  It's inked in Basic Black and stamped on Whisper White.
• Using Stampin' Up! Markers and Blender Pens, I made my "dad" quite a colorful character.
• TIP:  I used a Stampin' Up! Sahara Sand Marker to outline my image for a watercolor look.  The marker idea is from Melissa Young, another Stampin' Pretty Pal.
• The image was adhered with Stampin' Dimensionals to Bashful Blue card stock.
• I mounted the image on the right side of some luscious Pumpkin Pie Textured card stock.  TIP:  After running Whisper White through my Big Shot with a Cuttlebug Swiss Dots Embossing folder, I cropped out three 3/4" "golf balls" to accent the left side (propped up with Stampin' Dimensionals).
• A stripe from Washington Apple Designer Series paper is matted on Bashful Blue.  TIP:  A bit of Bashful Blue Textured card stock is shaped with a Photo Corners Punch to add balance to the top right.
• The vertical panel is More Mustard (an "oops" on my part . . . I meant to use So Saffron to stick with the color challenge).  I zipped it through the Big Shot with a Texturz Plate to give this jazzy finish.
• The sentiment (also from "And Many Mower") was cropped with the Large Oval Punch and layered over a 1 1/4" Circle of More Mustard (yep, did it again) and a Designer Label Punch in Bashful Blue.

To Order Stampin' Up! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Stamp Set:  Any Many Mower (113724, Occasions Mini Catalog)
Paper:  Washington Apple Designer Series (112461), More Mustard (100946), Pumpkin Pie Textured (108697), Bashful Blue Textured (108695), Bashful Blue (105120),  Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Basic Black (101179), Bashful Blue (105209), So Saffron (105213), Stampin' Up! Markers:  Really Rust (100073), Bashful Blue (105111), So Saffron (105114)
Cool Tools:  Blender Pen (102845), Large Oval Punch (107305), 1 1/4" Circle Punch (104403), 3/4" Circle Punch (107217), Designer Label Punch (107590), Photo Corners Punch (109042), Big Shot Die Cut Machine (113439), Texturz Plates Kit #4 (114531), Cuttlebug Swiss Dots Embossing Folder (www.ucutathome.com)
The Perfect Touch:  Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Big Boy Overalls

My grandnephew, Henry, is almost "there."  I thought this "big boy" card (see inside below) would offer a little encouragement as he reaches the potty training finish line.

I discovered the design and instructions for these darling overalls on the Stampin' Up! Demonstrator Web Site.  One of the benefits of being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator is seeing and learning how to create fun projects like this one. 

My prototype was created by Stampin' Up! demonstrator Kristian Ethridge, who used the fish stamps from Just Beachy (113796) as her accent.  However, I immediately knew the Choo Choo stamp set and Right on Track Wheel (both from the Occasions Mini Catalog) would be perfect for my rough and tumble little Henry. 

• Night of Navy Textured card stock was cut at 4 1/4" x 11".  It's folded in half (scored on the 4 1/4" side).
• Along the top score, lightly mark with a pencil the halfway point at 2 1/8".
• Punch a half circle for the "neck" using a 1 3/8" Circle Punch.
• For the sleeves, measure from the top  2" down from the sides and mark.
• Using the 1 3/8" Circle Punch, punch out half the circle at the top and on the sides.  TIP:  The mark that was made at 2" on both sides is where you should align the edge of the circle in your punch--meaning the very edge of your sleeve circle is 2" from the top of the card.
• Cut off the paper from the top edge of your punched circle to finish the sleeve.
• For the pants, measure 1 1/2" in from both sides and place a small mark with a pencil at the base.
• Measure from the bottom 1 1/2" up and centered at 2 1/8".  Place a small dot.
• Cut from the marks on the bottom to the small dot to cut out the pant legs.
• The Chocolate Chip train tracks are matted on Certainly Celery.
• The Bashful Blue and Certainly Celer Choo Choo train cars were snipped and mounted on Stampin' Dimensionals. TIP:   I am grateful to my Paper Snips for their precision in the tiny nooks.
• The original design had cute "Levi" jean style pockets.  However, after all that snipping of the train cars, I simply used the remaining half circles as pockets (from when I chomped the neck).
• A Signo Gel Pen was key in creating the dashes and stitched look.

Aren't these the cutest little undies?

• Cut 2" x 4 1/2" of Whisper White card stock.
• Measure 1" down each side from the top and make a small mark. 
• Measure 2 1/8" at the bottom and make a small mark.
• Start your cut from this mark up to each side mark.
• Using a Stampin' Up! Night of Navy Marker, I made dashes around the Whisper White card stock and adhered to the inside.

The letters for "henry" (front) and "big boy" (inside) are from Fashion District Rub-Ons.

Please email me if you would like a free copy of the Stampin' Up! Occasions Mini Catalog (US Only) or click to download Occasions Mini instantly!   To see a whole bunch of my samples using stamps and accessories from the Occasions Mini, click here and scroll !

To Order Stampin' Up! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Stamp Set:  Choo Choo (113982, Occasions Mini Catalog), Right on Track Wheel (113838, Occasions Mini Catalog)
Paper:  Night of Navy Textured 108696), Whisper White (100730), Certainly Celery (105125)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908), Certainly Celery (105217), Bashful Blue (105209), Stampin' Up! Night of Navy Marker (100069)
Cool Tools:  1 3/8" Circle Punch (104401), Paper Snips (103579)
The Perfect Touch:  White Signo Gel Pen (105021), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Fashion District Rub-Ons (113884)

Stampin' Up! Calendar Check

This is such an exciting time for Stampin' Up! fans.  Three Stampin' Up! May Specials are wrapping up and June 1 will reveal the Last Chance (previously called "retired") Stamp and Accessories Lists.  Important:  Last chance supplies will be limited so "last chance" is an accurate description. 

One of the benefits of being a demonstrator is that I can begin ordering select stamp sets and accessories (In Colors, woo hoo) on June 1 from the new Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog.  I'll be expediting my order to have sneak peeks ready for you by June 8.  The catalog will be released for customer sales on July 1.

I'm committed to being your up-to-the minute resource for the Stampin' Up! last chance lists, sneak peeks and catalog downloads on my Stampin' Pretty blog.  Here's a handy run down of what's happening:

• May 31  Last Day May Scrapbook Promotions

• May 31  $75 Scrapbook Starter Kit Special Ends.   Pamper Yourself.

• June 1  Last Chance Stampin' Up! Stamps List Released

• June 1  Last Chance Stampin' Up! Accessories List Released

• June 8  My sneak peeks begin using stamps, accessories and In Colors from the new Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog

• July 1 Customer sales period begins for the new Stampin' UP! Idea Book and Catalog.

Follow Me On Twitter for exclusive snippets of stamping wisdom and Stampin' Pretty challenges (coming soon)!

 

Mojo Monday Wedding

It's Mojo Monday and I get to introduce you to this week's sketch (MOJO88).  I love this mojo design gig! 

Today's wedding (or anniversary) card blends texture, pretty paper and exquisite cream pearls.  The sentiment is from the Stampin' Up! stamp set "Very Versatile," currently available in the Occasions Mini Catalog. 

Click to download Occasions Mini Catalog or email me your name and address.  I'll send you a free copy pronto (U.S. only).

• The Very Versatile sentiment was inked in Chocolate Chip and stamped on Very Vanilla card stock.
• It's cropped with a Full Heart Punch.
• Using Stampin' Up!'s Heart to Heart Punch, I popped out the smallest heart with Riding Hood Red Textured card stock and adhered.
• A Circle Scissor Plus allows you to customize your circle size up to 6".  I used it to create a 2" circle of Chocolate Chip Textured card stock.  The sentiment is layered on top with Stampin' Dimensionals.
• Two 1 1/4" x 3 1/4" panels combine Bella Rose Designer Series Paper and Chocolate Chip card stock.
• Four Pretties halfback pearls dress up the corners.  TIP:  A Mini Glue Dot (103683) keeps the pearls in place.
• The 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" Riding Hood Red Textured card base is topped with Very Vanilla (defined with Texturz Plates and a Big Shot) and a sweet chocolate polka dot pattern from Bella Rose.
• The crowning touch is Stampin' Up!'s Ribbon Originals Dress Up ribbon in Riding Hood Red.
• TIP:  With a remaining scrap of Bella Rose Designer Paper, I covered the flap of a Medium Very Vanilla Envelope and trimmed away the excess.

Final Week!  Stock up on Stampin' Up! Designer Paper and Textured Card Stock.  Buy 3 Get the 4th FREE! 



To Order Stampin' Up! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Stamp Set:  Very Versatile (113806, Occasions Mini Catalog)
Paper:  Bella Rose Designer Series (112041), Chocolate Chip Textured (108697), Chocolate Chip (102128), Riding Hood Red Textured (111345), Very Vanilla (101650)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908)
Cool Tools:  Circle Scissor Plus (113530), Full Heart Punch (113693), Heart to Heart Punch (113694), Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Texturz Plates (114512, Stampin' Up! Backgrounds I)
The Perfect Touch:  Pretties (109114, Cream Halfback Pearls), Ribbon Originals Dress Up (114317), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)
Envelope:  Medium Very Vanilla Envelope (107300), Bella Rose Designer Series Paper (112041)

Memorial Day: Operation Gratitude

 

The challenge from my "Stampin' Pretty Pals" downline this week (suggested by Pal Liz Hughes) was to combine this Splitcoast Stampers sketch with a Memorial Day theme. 

This card is headed for Operation Gratitude, military service members stationed overseas.  It's not too late if you would like to participate.  Sending cards from your "stash" is appreciated so that soldiers can send them to their families for birthdays, thanks yous and more. 

Here's the address:

Operation Gratitude
16444 Refugio Road
Encino, CA  91436

Here are guidelines to follow when sending cards to our troops:

• any size card is acceptable
• the cards cannot have any glitter on them
• no candy or food items can be included or attached to the card
• keep the message positive and stay away from politcal comments
• do not seal the envelope that will be used to send the card to the military member; all cards are subject to screening and review
• include your name, address and e-mail if you'd like to receive a reply back
• it's nice to include another card(s) that they can send back to their family and loved ones (cards are difficult for our military serving in combat areas to purchase).  I'm sending a dozen :)
• If you are sending more than one card, place all of your cards in a Ziploc bag with post-it notes on the cards that are to be sent for the service member to mail back.

This 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" card was easy to produce using my Stampin' Up! Star Punches!  Riding Hood Red and Whisper White were layered over the center rectangle of Night of Navy.  It reminded me of a flag.  The star brads from Styled Silver Hodgepodge Hardware were a snappy, patriotic touch.

Relax and reflect this Memorial Day weekend!



To Order Stampin' Up! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Paper:  Riding Hood Red Textured (111345), Riding Hood Red (111348), Night of Navy Textured, (108696) Whisper White (100730)
Cool Tools:  Large Star (110710) and Star Punch (109045)
The Perfect Touch:  Chit Chat Rub-Ons (111804), Styled Silver Hodgepodge Hardware Star Brads (111325), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430). 

Pamper Yourself

I joined Stampin' Up! as a hobby demonstrator almost 2 years ago.  I was focused on getting the starter kit and excited to begin getting discounts and sneak peeks.  I never dreamed my stamping business and creative outlet would blossom into a full-time career.

Since January of this year, thirty demonstrators from across the U.S. have joined my Stampin' Pretty Pals (as Stampin' Up! demonstrators).  We have a private blog, swaps, weekly challenges and monthly conference calls.  We're having a ball.

Does having extra income to pamper yourself with a monthly pedicure or knocking off some bills appeal to you?  Would you like to start a new career doing something you love?  Would you simply enjoy the discounts, connecting with my virtual downline and honing your stamping artistic skills?  These are all wonderful reasons to come on board.

Until May 31, you can join Stampin' Up! for as little as $75. 

• Click for contents of the $75 Scrapbooking Starter Kit (promotion ends May 31).
• Click for contents of the $199 Starter Kit.
• Both kits include 8 catalogs and business tools to help get you started.
• Both kits can be customized with your preferences (for example, the Schoolbook Serif Alphabet stamp set in the $75 kit can be substituted for any current stamp set up to $43.95).
• Both ship FREE.
• Enjoy demo discounts and sneak peeks.  Click here for more demo benefits.
• Starting June 1, demos can pre-order select stamp sets, accessories and check out the new In Colors for the Stampin' Up! 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalog (the big guy), a month before the customer sales period.  Woo hoo!
• New.  Any demo who places an order as early as June 1, will receive a free 2009-2010 Catalog (so you have an opportunity to see everything coming up ahead of the July 1 release).
• As a new demo, you earn a one-time 30% discount on your first order of $150 (placed within 45 days).  Perfect timing for the pre-order on June 1 or gear up for the July 1 release.
• There's no obligation to sell or penalty to drop.  To remain active, your sales (including your own) must reach $300 per quarter.

Click here for on-line sign-up. I would love to have you as part of my group of passionate stampers from across the nation.  You can receive immediate demo discounts and benefits and access to the wealth of information on the Stampin' Up! Demo Site by signing up on-line.  My password is:  stampinpretty or email me if you have questions.

Tea Party Gift Certificate

A birthday mom doesn't even know as she's reading this post that this gift certificate from her daughter is destined for her.  Hee Hee!.   Want the perfect gift for a new or seasoned stamper?  I create original gift certificates for Stampin' Up! merchandise (redeemable thru me).  Last minute virtual options available, too.  Click here for gift certificate details!

The pocket style was inspired by the "just because" card (below) from my stamping buddy, Sandy.  As you can see, this pull style pocket card works for any occasion (watch for a recipe card in the future).  The interior card "swivels" to reveal your personal message.

And the best part, it's very easy. 

• I scored a  4 1/4" x 12" piece of Stampin' Up! Tea Party Designer Paper at 3", 8 1/4" and 11 1/4".
• Place the designer paper with the side you want to show face down (ahhhh, 2 sided paper, so many splendid decisions :)
• Fold the 3" score toward you (which will be the front) and adhere.
• From the bottom, fold the 8 1/4" score toward you and tuck in the remaining score at 11 1/4".  Attach to create the pocket.  Voilà!
• I added a piece of coordinating So Saffron Textured card stock, shaped with a Eyelet Border Punch. 
• The sentiment is from One of a Kind stamp set, inked in Almost Amethys and stamped on Whisper White.
• I cropped "for you" with a Large Oval Punch.  TIP:  Sponging on the edges in Almost Amethyst adds depth.  A bit of So Saffron was added with a Stampin' Up! Marker.
• The Large Oval layers perfectly on a Scallop Oval Punch (available exclusively in the Occasions Mini Catalog) in Almost Amethyst card stock.  Click to Download Occasions Mini Catalog.
• The interior card combines another pretty pattern from Tea Party Designer Series and Whisper White.  The two pieces of each were whipped through my Big Shot Die-Cut machine with the Bigz Top Note Die.  This creates the front (which you can see) and white interior (which you can't because it has the recipient's name).
• Using a Crop-A-Dile, I punched through the top of both layers.  I added a Pewter Jumbo Eyelet to the top layer.  This creates a swivel in combination with the Certainly Celery 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, threaded through both holes.
• I sure haven't regretted purchasing the Bigz Beautiful Butterflies Die.  Instant wow on any card!  My fluttery friend is dressed in the same Tea Party Designer Series Paper as the outside card (after a "flight" though the Big Shot).
• TIP:  Did you know you can remove the rhinestones from Stampin' Up!'s Circle Rhinestone Brads?  I didn't want these sweet purple sparklers to show on the inside of the card.  I simply pulled back the "legs' of the brad and lifted the tiny metal tabs to give the rhinestone new freedom and possibilities.  TIP:  They cling to the butterfly using Mini Glue Dots.
• I lined the envelope with a bit more DP.  Very purdy.

My inspiration was from this wonderful pocket card from my friend, Sandy Grupka. 

ENDS MAY 31!    Don't miss Stampin' Up!'s Buy 3 Get 1 FREE special on the Designer Paper and Textured card stock I used (plus all the other textured colors and designer styles).  Click to order on-line.

 

To Order Stampin' UP! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Stamp Set:  One of a Kind (113624)
Paper:  Tea Party Designer Series (113922), So Saffron Textured (108696), Whisper White (100730), Almost Amethyst (102158)
Ink:  Almost Amethyst (101723), Stampin' Up! So Saffron Marker (105114)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Bigz Top Note Die (113463), Bigz Beautiful Butterflies (114507) Die, Large Oval Punch (107305), Scallop Oval Punch (114889, Occasions Mini Catalog), Eyelet Border Punch (113692), Crop-A-Dile (108362), Sponges (101610)
The Perfect Touch:  Pewter Jumbo Eyelet (108432), Circle Rhinestone Brads (109111, Ice), Certainly Celery 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109031), Mini Glue Dots (103693)

Stampin' Up! Color Swatch Charts

Isn't this a fabulous idea?  One of my fellow Stampin' Up! demonstrators and virtual pals, Anne Beale Yancy, created these color swatch charts for Stampin' Up!'s four color families, neutrals and the In Colors. 

I punched each color from card stock (used up many of my scraps) using a 1" Circle Punch (109046) and adhered it over the circle next to it's color name.  Perfection!  Much handier and more accurate than a catalog chart.   You can take it a step further by cutting the sheets by individual color family.

To download and create your own color swatch charts, visit Anne Beale's Mukibug Blog!

So Anne Beale . . . may I flatter, your loveliness, into making an updated chart when the new In Colors are launched on July 1 along with the new Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog?

Follow me on Twitter!

 
To Order Stampin' Up! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Bold, Happy Outlines

This week's Splitcoast Color Challenge (CC219) is a bold combination:  Brilliant Blue, Rose Red (or Purely Pomegranate) and Only Orange.  It thought it would work beautifully with a retro flair for a teenage girl graduation card.  I'm always game for an unconventional card!

• Are you familiar with the Rock-N-Roll Technique (Splitcoast Clean and Simple Challenge CAS14)?  It's one of my favorites and always a "wow" factor.  I first inked the Organic Outlines solid stamp in Rose Red. 
• Before stamping, I "rocked" and "rolled" the edges in Only Orange.  When I stamped the 2-ink image on Whisper White, I had a "sunsety" blend of color--Rose Red for the main portion highlighted with Only Orange tips.
• The image was matted on Only Orange card stock and a Brilliant Blue Textured card base (4 1/4" x 5 1/2", scored at the top).
• I inked the flower (also Organic Outlines) in Brilliant Blue, stamped on Whisper White and snipped them out with Paper Snips.  TIP:  Stampin' Up!'s small Paper Snips Scissors (103579) are indispensable for cutting detailed and tiny spaces.  
• The Brilliant Blue flowers were layered on the main image with Stampin' Dimensionals.
• Three Rose Red Brads accent the lower left corner.
• Using the "happy for you" sentiment from Organic Outlines, I inked it in Regal Rose and stamped on Whisper White.
• It was cropped with a Large Oval Punch and layered on a Scalloped Oval of Textured Regal Rose.  TIP:  My Scallop Oval Punch is getting quite a work out.  It's currently available in the Stampin' Up! Occasions Mini Catalog.  Need a Mini?  Email me your name and address (US only) and I'll send you a free copy.

TIP:  With a change of colors, this card would have a whole new, pretty appeal.  How about using Kiwi for the main stem and Always Artichoke for the Rock-N-Roll edges?  Perfect Plum would be splendid with this combo for the flowers.

DO YOU TWITTER?  Follow me in real time for exclusive tips, ideas and Stampin' Up! News.



To Order Stampin' Up! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Stamp Set:  Organic Outlines (111670)
Paper:  Brilliant Blue Textured (108698), Rose Red Textured (108696), Only Orange (102837), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Brilliant Blue (100691), Rose Red (101778), Only Orange (102696)
Cool Tools:  Large Oval Punch (107305), Scallop Oval Punch (114889, Occasions Mini Catalog), Paper Snips (103579)
The Perfect Touch:  Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Rich Regals Brads (106953)

Follow Me On Twitter

Woo hoo!  I took the social networking plunge and have been on Twitter sharing exclusive stamping content and Stampin' Up! news for the past week.  Now that I'm feeling in the swing and twittering daily, I wanted to roll it out to share with the "inquiring minds" of my blog readers.  Some of you are already following me.  Thank you--although I don't have the slightest idea how you found me--still learning :)

If you want "real time" snippets of stamping news, product tips or or w ays to get your mojo flowing, follow me on Twitter :)  I have added a Twitter "follow me" widget on my left side bar (or click here).  For a taste of what this is all about, check out the text box on the left showing my five latest tweets.

What's next?  Well, Facebook, of course!

Oops :)

The current In Colors (Pink Pirouette, Riding Hood Red, Kiwi Kiss, Pacific Point, Baja Breeze and Tangerine Tango) and any accessories and designer series paper that use them will retire July 1.  In my earlier post (which I have now updated), I indicated it was June 1.  I apologize for any confusion.  My typing/proofreading skills are always a work in progress!

Here's the Buy 3 Get 1 Free Offer on designer series paper and textured card stock.

Seeing Pink Elephants

It's Mojo Monday Sketch time and the elements fell into place using Stampin' Up!'s Wild About You and Party Hearty stamp sets.  Plus, my main focus today will be to show you a step-by-step guide to creating custom envelopes using Designer Series Paper and an envelope template.

 

TIPS:  I used a Stamp-a-ma-jig to  to stack the words of the sentiment (vs. all on one line) and markers to color individual words.  The elephant and party hats were snipped out and pumped up on Stampin' Dimensionals.  The polka dot texture was produced by my Big Shot and Texturz Plates.

Stamp Set:  Wild About You (115110), Party Hearty (111532)
Paper:  Pink Flamingo Designer Series (113976), Real Red Textured (108698), Whisper White (100730), Cameo Coral (100475)
Ink:  Cameo Coral (103035), Real Red (103133), Stampin' Up! Markers in Cameo Coral (100074), Real Red (100052), Basic Black (100082)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot (113439), Stampin' Up! Texturz Plates Backgrounds I (114512), Circle Scissor Plus (112530), 1 1/4" Square Punch (104400), Scallop Square Punch (112081), Scallop Border Punch (112091), Stamp-a-ma-jig (101049)
The Perfect Touch:  Bold Brights Brads (106957), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Envelope:  Pink Flamingo Designer Series Paper (113976), 5 Petal Flower Punch (109041), 1/2" Circle Punch (104390)

My dear, virtual pal, Sandy Grupka, surprised (spoiled) me recently with a package of papercrafting goodies.  I always have wanted to be able to make easy envelopes.  Among my new treasures were Kreate-a-lope envelope making templates for both A2 (4 3/8" x 5 5/8") and A7 (5" x 7 1/8") sizes.  Click here for further details on this product.

I used the sizing template (open in the middle) and envelope template (rectangle) for an A2 Envelope.

You can either center an image on the designer paper in the middle of the open area or line it up in the corner to use the two clean edges, as I did with this charming Pink Flamingo Designer Series Paper.

Hold down the template edge and carefully begin to tear against the outside of the template.

The torn edge is a bit rough.  TIP: I used my Stampin' Up! Craft & Paper Scissors (108360--they cut like "budda") to quickly clean up the torn edges.

Flip the Designer Paper over.

First, fold in the sides, around the envelope template (rectangle).

Fold up the bottom and adhere (isn't this cool)?

Here's my finished envelope!

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Little Leaves With Heart

This Clean and Simple sketch (FTL42) offers a pretty platform to show off a mix of greens and highlight the Little Leaves die cut stem (114511). TIP:  For just $4.95, this sizzlits die gets a lot of mileage.

• I zipped Whisper White Textured Card Stock through my Big Shot with the Little Leaves stem.
• The stem was adhered to Kiwi Kiss card stock layered over Always Artichoke.
• TIP:   Using a Stampin' Up! Always Artichoke Marker, I placed dashes around the stem for a faux stitched look.
• A Fashion District Rub-On supplies the sentiment.  TIP:  I added a powerful shot of Real Red color by layering the tiny heart over the sentiment with a Stampin' Dimensional.  I used my Heart to Heart Punch (the smallest heart) and cut it down a bit to fit.
• A Photo Corner Punch was used to create the layered corner accent.  TIP:  I adhered the small on the large corner punch with tiny cut pieces of Stampin' Dimensionals for added impact.
• A strip of Whisper White is shaped with a Scallop Border Punch.
• Always Artichoke 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon pulls the look together and covers the edge of the scallop border.
• The main panel is matted on a classy Kiwi Kiss houndstooth pattern from Urban Oasis Designer Paper.  It's attached to a 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" Whisper White card base (scored on the side).

NEW CATTY JULY 1.  I can hardly believe the release of the new Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog is getting closer (July 1).  Stampin' Up! is going to a single, annual catalog (rather than twice a year) with 3 smaller catalogs offered throughout the year introducing new stamps and hostess sets. 

RETIRING:  I'll have the Stampin' Up! Retiring Stamp List posted on my Stampin' Pretty blog on June 1.  I'm still waiting to hear on a release date for the Retiring Accessories List.  The In Colors will be replaced with six new trendy colors (for another year). 

DON'T FORGET:  Your favorite designer papers using the current In Colors or the In Color Textured Card Stock, will be retiring July 1.  If you covet these colors, be sure to take advantage of Stampin' Up!'s Buy 3 Get 1 FREE Promotion on Designer Paper and Textured Card Stock.  Offer ends May 31!

 

To Order Stampin' Up! Products On-Line 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Paper:  Urban Oasis Designer Series (113978), Kiwi Kiss (111835), Always Artichoke (105119), Whisper White Textured (108693), Real Red (102482)
Ink:  Stampin' Up! Always Artichoke Marker (105113)
Cool Tools:  Scallop Border Punch (112091), Photo Corners Punch (109042), Heart to Heart Punch (113694), Stampin' Up! Little Leaves Sizzlits Die (114511), Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439)
The Perfect Touch:  Fashion District Rub-Ons (113884), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

A "Major" Color Challenge

I'm so excited that I get to be a Guest Stamper today for Cindy Major's Color Challenge.  This talented Canadian Stampin' Up! demo was one of my past Guest Stampers on Stampin' Pretty and created quite a splash with this amazing "Year in a Box" project.  Her blog, Encre, Papier, Ciseaux, is loaded with gorgeous projects that will make you say "mais oui!"

Stamp Set:  Font of You (113405)
Paper:  Good Morning Sunshine Designer Series (113966), Whisper White (100730), Kiwi Kiss (111353), Taken With Teal Textured (108696), Chocolate Chip Textured (108697)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip Ink Pad (100908) and Stampin' Up! Marker (100071), Summer Sun Stampin' Up! Marker (100077)
Cool Tools:  Trio Flower Punch (108183), Circle Scissor Plus (112530)
The Perfect Touch:  Soft Subtles Brads (106954), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Chit Chat Rub-Ons (111804, sentiment)

Since I didn't get a chance to post yesterday, I have two cards for you today using Cindy's color combo :)

This simple card took less than 10 minutes to assemble, qualifying it for my Stamping 911/Quick Cards category.  For more Stamping 911 examples, click here.

Stamp Set:  Petal Pizzazz (113417)
Paper:  Chocolate Chip (100908), Summer Sun Textured (108697), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Kiwi Kiss (111835), Summer Sun (100537), Taken With Teal (103257)
Cool Tools: Corner Rounder Punch (109047)
The Perfect Touch:  Circle Rhinestone Brads (109111, Ice), Chocolate Chip 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (109051), Hidden Garden Rub-Ons (111414)

DON'T MISS!  See ALL Stampin' Up! May Promotions!

 

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Citrus Owl

Zoinks!  This week's Splitcoast Stampers Color Challenge (CC218) requires sunglasses:  Only Orange, Summer Sun and Kiwi Kiss.  My immediate inclination was to do something light-hearted to go with this bold color scheme.  Hence, the citrus owl card.  My layout was inspired by this week's Our Creative Corner sketch challenge.

 

• Stampin' Up! On Board So Tweet was my resource for this sweet chip board guy.  There are 80 images in the set.  I adhered the flower pattern from Pink Flamingo Designer Series Paper to the owl, trimmed the excess and sanded for a polished fit.
• TIP:  The circle disks (included in So Tweet) for the eyes are exactly the same size as my 3/4" Circle Punch.  Using the punch, I popped out the "whites of his eyes" in Whisper White Textured card stock.
• TIP:  Even more amazing is that the smallest heart in Stampin' Up!'s Heart to Heart punch layered over the So Tweet mini hearts perfectly.  I used the punch to create Only Orange Textured eyes.
• I snipped additional Only Orange Textured card stock to cover his triangular chip board nose.

• The card base is 4 1/4 x 5 1/2 in Whisper White.  A lovely stem pattern from Walk in the Park Designer Series (exclusively in the Occasions Mini Catalog) lands on top.
• Two strips of Only Orange Textured card stock make up the vertical and horizontal panels.
• TIP:  Using a Paper Piercer and Template, I lined up the 5/16" Whisper White Jumbo Brads. 
• Another bit of matching Pink Flamingo Designer Series Paper was cropped with a Photo Corners Punch and adhered with Stampin' Dimensionals.
• Whisper White Taffeta (a mainstay in my ribbon supplies) provides a lovely spot for my owl to rest his "bum."
• The "thank you" sentiment is from Bella Blossoms (not in the catalog but available).  It was inked in Kiwi Kiss and stamped on Whisper White.  Click to Download the Stampin' Up! Dormant But Available Stamp List.
• The sentiment was shaped using a Large Oval Punch and attached to a Scallop Oval in the matching Pink Flamingo paper.

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!!  Stampin' Up! announced today that their retiring stamp list will be available June 1.  I'll have all the details on my Stampin' Pretty blog as soon as they are released!

Need a Mini Catalog?  Click to email me your name and address and I'll send one to you pronto (US only, please).



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Stamp Set:  Bella Blossoms (111596)
Paper:  Walk in the Park Designer Series (115123, Occasions Mini Catalog), Pink Flamingo Designer Series (113976), Only Orange Textured (108698), Whisper White (100730), Whisper White Textured (108693)
Ink:  Kiwi Kiss (111835)
Cool Tools:  Large Oval (107305) and Scalloped Oval (114889, Occasions Mini Catalog) Punches, 3/4" Circle Punch (107217), Heart to Heart Punch (113694), Photo Corners Punch (109042), Paper Piercer and Template (104310, Stampin' Up! Crafter's Tool Kit)
The Perfect Touch:  Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon (109070), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), On Board So Tweet (113893), 5/16" Jumbo Brads (112534, Neutrals Assortment)

Stampin' Up! New Catalog Sneak Peek!

The June issue of Creating Keepsakes features a die-cut favor box made with the new Stampin' Up! Fancy Favor Bigz XL die from the upcoming 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalog. 

NOTE:  This product is not yet available.  However, I thought you might enjoy an advance sneak peek.  This amazing product along with many more new Stampin' Up! products will be available for purchase on July 1, 2009, when the new Idea Book & Catalog is released.

May Is National Strawberry Month

Don't these Tart and Tangy strawberries remind you of summer?  I tried a "triple challenge" on this card including:  Clean & Simple Fall to Layout (FTL#41), Splitcoast Limited Supplies Challenge LSC219 (choosing National Strawberry Month as my May holiday inspiration) and Color Throwdown #41 (Riding Hood Red, Certainly Celery, Baja Breeze).

• Using Stampin' Up! Ruby Red and Certainly Celery Markers, I inked the rubber of the strawberry stamp directly.  I "huffed" on it a couple times to keep it moist and stamped on Very Vanilla card stock.  TIP:  Ruby Red is an excellent stand-in for Riding Hood Red.
• I popped out the strawberry images using a 1 1/4" Circle Punch.
• They are adhered with Stampin' Dimensionals (for a three dimensional effect) to a 1 3/8" Circle of Certainly Celery.  A Baja Breeze Textured Scallop Circle follows.
• Very Vanilla was whipped through my Big Shot with the dotted Texturz Plate from Stampin' Up!'s Backgrounds 1 to add pizzazz to the horizontal panel.  Soft. Pretty.
• The vanilla panel and berries were attached to a 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" card base in Certainly Celery Textured card stock (scored at the top).  
• DON'T MISS:  Check out this May promotion on Stampin' Up!'s fabulous textured card stock and designer paper!
• Riding Hood Red Textured card stock was cropped with a Designer Label Punch.  TIP:  It's a perfect fit with the Styled Vanilla Label Holder.
• The sentiment is from Hidden Garden Rub-Ons.  They layer crisply over textured card stock.  TIP:  This single line text of the rub-on was easily cut and placed as two lines. 
• Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon (love the vanilla trim) slips through the label holder and pulls the card together.
• The final touch is a tiny Baja Breeze felt flower from Flower Fusion Too anchored with a Styled Vanilla Brad.

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Stamp Set:  Tart and Tangy (111514)
Paper:  Certainly Celery Textured (108695), Certainly Celery (105125), Very Vanilla (101650), Baja Breeze Textured (111345), Riding Hood Red Textured (111345)
Ink:  Stampin' Up! Ruby Red (100075) and Certainly Celery Markers (105106)
Cool Tools:  1 1/4" (104403) and 1 3/8" (104401) Circle Punches, Scallop Circle Punch (109043), Designer Label Punch (107590), Stampin' Up! Backgrounds 1 Texturz Plates (114512), Big Shot (113439)
The Perfect Touch:  Riding Hood Red/Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon (111365), Styled Vanilla Hodgepodge Hardware (112454, Label Holder and Brad), Flower Fusion Too (112006), Hidden Garden Rub-Ons (111414)

Envelope:  Stampin' Up! Medium Very Vanilla Envelope (107300), Urban Garden Designer Series Paper