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

Perfect Plum M & M's

Could it really be, Perfect Plum M & M's?  M & M's "My Color" candies come in the most incredible colors . . . you can purchase a single color so no more sorting (and eating the "rejects," boo hoo).  My luscious purple treats are "spot on" for Perfect Plum and a natural for my Halloween Fancy Favor Box and the Cast-A-Spell Designer Series Paper (Perfect Plum, Old Olive, Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie). 

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Using blender pens and Stampin' Up! Ink, I gave my witchy woman an old olive complexion, perfect plum hair and a wash of Pumpkin Pie on her dress pattern.
• The Finial Press Textured Impressions Folder takes the Perfect Plum card stock over the top.
• For a funky twist, I left the mats behind the witch askew.
• My card layout follows Splitcoaststampers Sketch Challenge 247 (SC247)

• The Fancy Favor Bigz XL Die is one of my best sellers for good reason.  It's quick, easy and adorable.  You can only find it at Stampin' Up!
• A "left over" scrap from the Fancy Favor Die produces a delightful handle.  You could also use these pieces for pretty borders and layers . . .
• Jet Black Stazon is my favorite black.  Look how crisp the "eat, drink & be scary" image turned out.

HAVE YOU DISCOVERED the On-Line Stampin' Up! Clearance Rack?  Love a bargain?  Stampin' Up! now offers retired and discontinued products at tremendous savings.  CLICK HERE for more details.

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

CARD:
Stamps:  Halloween Hoot (111582)
Paper:  Cast-A-Spell Designer Series Paper (115677), Whisper White (100730), Perfect Plum (101889), Pumpkin Pie (105117), Old Olive (100702)
Ink:  Jet Black Stazon (101406), Old Olive (102277), Perfect Plum (101437), Pumpkin Pie (105216)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die Cut Machine (113439), Finial Press Textured Impressions Folder (115963), Photo Corner Punch (109042), Blender Pen (102845)
The Perfect Touch:  Pumpkin Pie 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109030), Circle Rhinestone Brads (109111, Ice), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

FANCY FAVOR BOX:
Stamps:  Eat, Drink and Be Scary (111764)
Paper:  Cast-A-Spell Designer Series (115677), Basic Black (102851), Pumpkin Pie (105117)
Ink:  Jet Black Stazon (101406)
Cool Tools:  Stampin' Up! Fancy Favor XL Die (115965), Big Shot Die Cut Machine (113439), 1/16" Circle Punch (101227), Tag Punch (105934), Small Tag Punch (108264), 1/2" Circle Punch (104390)
The Perfect Touch:  Basic Black 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109027), Silver Brads (104336), Medium Cello Bags (102757), Silver Elastic Cord (109866, Holiday Mini), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Announcing the Stampin' Up! Clearance Rack!

Happy Dance!!!  Stampin' Up! has launched a new Clearance Rack section of their on-line shopping store.  All items are retired or discontinued and most clearance rack products are marked at substantially reduced prices.  This is not a short term promotion but rather a regular Stampin' Up! feature.  Items will change continuously and sell out quickly so it's always a hot spot to stop when you are ordering on-line.  Love it!

• CLICK HERE and click on the SHOP NOW button (top right).
• Look for CLEARANCE RACK on the left side bar of the on-line store.
• Do a happy dance for fantastic savings!

CUSTOMER QUESTIONS?  EMAIL ME.

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

Mojo Monday 106

It's Mojo Monday (MOJO 106) Challenge time!  I love sharing the Mojo Sketch and my own design each week. 
Today's card has a 1960's colonial vibe to it . . . very much like the bedroom décor that inspired me below.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• 

  Wait a minute . . . where did that tiny "friends" sentiment come from?  It's a sneak peek at the  future Tiny Tags stamp set I was lucky enough to receive at Founder's Circle.  It will be available for customer order in the Stampin' Up! Occasions Mini. (Jan. 5, 2010).  I promise to share more peeks of this adorable set.

• My card base is 5 1/4" x 5 1/4" which works beautifully with Stampin' Up!'s 5 1/2" x 5 1/2"  Whisper White Medium Square Envelopes (107289).

• Stampin' Up!'s Exclusive Tulipe Bigz Die is amazingly versatile.  I used just the "top" to create my card's paper design.  However, you can use other parts as flourishes or the entire thing.  Stunning.  What about using the remaining template as a cool stencil?  Stay tuned.

DON'T MISS!  This weeks Pals Paper Arts Inspiration Challenge.  I Love to Play at PPA!

COMING UP!  My Digital Studio goes on sale October 1!

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

Stamp Set:  Tiny Tags (Occasions Mini Sneak Peek)
Paper: Tempting Turquoise (102067), Creamy Caramel (102514), Very Vanilla (101650)
Ink:  Close to Cocoa (103139)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Stampin' Up! Tulipe Bigz Die (113457), Paper Piercer (116631), Mat Pack (105826), Corner Rounder Punch (109047)
The Perfect Touch:  Tempting Turquoise 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109038), Bold Brights Brads (106957), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

RAK's from Dawn and Maxine

I wanted to share two lovely cards (RAK=Random Act Kindness) I received.  I adore them for their simplicity and "spot on" balance.

This first card by Dawn Garnett was created using Cottage Wall Designer Series Paper (115671, $9.95).  I love the single brad in the bottom corner.  Note: The sentiment is not from Stampin' Up!   However, if you are a Stampin' Up! Only (SUO) die hard (like me), sentiments from Everything Nice (113818, p. 145, $17.95) and Herb Expressions (113224, p. 55, $32.95) would work beautifully.

The second card is by my SAM (Service Account Manager) at Stampin' Up!, Maxine Conrad.  She is better described as my friend, mentor and a very, talented stamper.  The Large (110710) and Small (109045) Star Punches combine with a delightful color combination of So Saffron, Bashful Blue and Dusty Durango.  A striking addition of Dusty Durango 1/2" Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115609) provides the perfect accent.  Stamp Sets:  Fundamental Phrases (114968), Seeing Stars (115352).

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

Introducing My Digital Studio

Stampin' Up!'s My Digital Studio (118108, $79.95) will be available for customer purchase starting October 1.  It's amazing.  It's easy.  It's just the thing to coerce me into adding scrapbooking to my paper crafting addiction.  You're gonna want it!  Click the photo above to watch a demonstration!

The My Digital Studio software allows you to quickly add photos, Stampin' Up! stamp images, ribbon, text and much more to your scrapbook pages.  Beauty in minutes.  I love it. Expect professional looking results that you can embellish with Stampin' Up! accessories, if you crave more dimension.  I plan to get that box of family photos out and finally DO something with them.  Stampin' Up! offers publishing options, too.

My talented niece, Kris Kilcoyne, of Kween Bee Kreations created this jaw dropping scrapbook page using My Digital Studio.  Need I say more?

DON'T MISS OUT!  It's time to play the Pals Paper Arts Inspiration Photo Challenge.  Check out the latest samples and let your artistic juices flow.  Deadline is noon CST 9/29.

NEED A MINI CATALOG?  Have you seen the new Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog which includes My Digital Studio?  Click here for the on-line version or email me with your name and U.S. address to receive a free copy.

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

Pals Paper Arts PPA9

Happiness means it's Thursday and time for a new Pals Paper Arts Challenge (PPA9).  This week the Stampin' Pretty Pals Design Team takes it's inspiration from this striking fall photo.  Do the colors grab your attention?  How about the textures?  Do the pumpkin and gourds make you think Halloween or Thanksgiving?  Every answer is a right answer on a photo inspiration challenge.  Play along!

The colors from the photo said "pick me, pick me" to my creative instincts.  Therefore, my card focuses on Pumpkin Pie, Always Artichoke and Whisper White.  I thought they would be delightful with the Asian Artistry stamp set (available exclusively as a free Hostess Rewards stamp set). 

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• 

  Watercolor "phobic?"  I stamped the bird a second time on colored card stock (Pumpkin Pie), snipped it out and launched it on Stampin' Dimensionals. 
• Try layering a sentiment with an image for an interesting effect.  I inked the dragon fly stamp in Pumpkin Pie, stamped it off once and stamped it on Whisper White before topping it with the Artichoke sentiment (photo below).
• White space can be beautiful.  There's no requirement to decorate every inch of your project.

ENVELOPE:

• 

  A lined envelope adds a distinctive polish.  
• The Stampin' Up! Designer Series Papers coordinate beautifully.  The Pumpkin Pie pattern on the card blends perfectly with the polka dot on the envelope.
• Conserve.  I don't run the liner all the way to the bottom . . . just what shows and an inch or two overlap tucked inside.
• Use a pencil to trace the flap on the designer series paper (the "wrong" side).  Using Stampin' Up!'s Craft and Paper Scissors (108360, they cut like "buttah:) cut about a quarter inch inside the trace line and "fade" it down the side.
• Fold the flap down and use a bone folder to "set" the crease on the liner.

DID YOU KNOW?  On-line orders qualify for Stampin' Up! Hostess Rewards.  Earn FREE stamp sets and merchandise starting at $150 in product orders.  Click here for details.

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

Stamp Set:  Asian Artistry (114399, Hostess Rewards Level 2)
Paper:  Pumpkin Pie Designer Series Paper (112159), Pumpkin Pie (105117), Always Artichoke (105119), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Pumpkin Pie (105216), Always Artichoke (105219)
The Perfect Touch:  Always Artichoke 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109035), Rich Regals Brads (106953), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)
Envelope:  Whisper White Medium Envelope (107301), Pumpkin Pie Designer Series Paper (112159)

Gift Card Holder Tutorials x2

Whoa!  These colors are about as unconventional as it gets for the holidays.  However, I was determined to stick with the palette of Rich Razzleberry, Basic Black and Crushed Curry to satisfy the Splitcoaststampers Color Challenge (CC237).  Nothing spurs my imagination better than a good challenge.  All Splitcoaststampers daily challenges are linked on my left side bar.

My virtual stamping buddy, Sandy, brought this seriously slick Top Note Gift Card Tutorial to my attention from Canadian Stamper Deanna Tam.  I had to give it a try pronto.  A second gift card idea inspired by my Stampin' Up! demonstrator magazine is listed below.  In an age where gift cards "rule" for birthdays and holidays (just ask my teenage daughter, Caroline), having lots of pretty ways to dress up the "plastic" is divine.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• The Delightful Decorations stamp set and the Ornament Punch I used (both from the Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog) coordinate perfectly.

• The Merry and Bright Rub-Ons further coordinate with the Ornament Punch.  The rub-ons include a sheet of white and silver (woo hoo) rub-ons.  The white really sings when layered over Basic Black.

• I ran a snippet of Rich Razzleberry card stock thru the Big Shot and dolled it up with the Eyelet Border Punch.  It breaks up the Crushed Curry background and fits the curves perfectly.


• My Crop-A-Dile got a little action today when I needed to set the Jumbo Eyelet.  This handy dandy power horse makes me understand the historically male fascination with tools.  I dig it.

• The gift card tucks inside (under the punched slit) and runs vertically.

Stamp Set:  Delightful Decorations (116517)
Paper:  Crushed Curry Textured Card Stock (115538), Crushed Curry (115319), Basic Black (102851), Rich Razzleberry (115316), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Rich Razzleberry (115658), Jet Black Stazon (101406)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Bigz Top Note Die (113463), Ornament Punch (116794), Eyelet Border Punch (113692), Slit Punch (104388), 3/4" (107217) and 1" (109046) Circle Punches, Crop-A-Dile (108362)
The Perfect Touch:  Merry and Bright Rub-Ons (116801), Basic Black 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109027), Jumbo Eyelets (108432, Pewter), Circle Rhinestones (109110, Fire), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

This gift certificate is quick and easy and can be decorated for any occasion.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• 

  Create the gift card holder using textured card stock by scoring a 4" x 7 7/8" piece horizontally at 2 3/8" and 5 1/8".


• Create a 2 1/2" x 7 1/4" wide belly band.  Score at 2 1/2" and 4 1/4". 

• Punch a scallop border.  Note:  I tried running the border the distance of the belly band (7 1/4") and score. Oops!  The scallops don't line up in back.  So I cut it down to just run along the side in front.

Stamp Set:  Delightful Decorations (116517)
Paper:  Razzleberry Lemonade Designer Series Paper (115675), Rich Razzleberry Textured Card Stock (115538), Crushed Curry (115319), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Crushed Curry (115659), Rich Razzleberry (115658), Jet Black Stazon (101406)
Cool Tools:  Scallop Edge Punch (112091), Ornament Punch (116794), 3/4" Circle Punch (107217)
The Perfect Touch:  Basic Black 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109027), Circle Rhinestone Brads (109110, Fire), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

DON'T MISS:  The Pals Paper Arts Top Picks for our KISS (Keep It Simple, Sweetie) challenge are in!. We had the most entries ever!  Click here to check out the KISS projects that really strutted their stuff!

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

Guest Stamper: Michelle Tech

My fellow Stampin' Up! demonstrator and dear friend, Michelle Tech, decorated this adorable tin . . . one for each member of the group that met at Convention last August.  She packed it full of travel friendly favorites.  Product highlights include Thoroughly Modern Designer Series Paper (115673), Top Note Die (113463) and Alphabet Simple Die (115960).  For the full story of what went inside this cutie, please visit Michelle's blog.

Michelle managed to further surprise me with this sweet "friend" card.  She knows how to warm my heart :)  She combined Stampin' Up!'s Forest Friends (113748) and Oval All (113790) stamp sets.  Michelle's work is impeccable and she has a knack for new ways to engineer paper.  No surprise that her background is in engineering.

DON'T MISS OUT!  There's still time to play the Pals Paper Arts KISS Challenge (Keep It Simple, Sweetie).  Check out the latest samples and let your artistic juices flow.  Deadline is noon CST 9/22.

NEED A MINI CATALOG?  Have you seen the new Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog?  Click here for the on-line version or email me with your name and U.S. address to receive a free copy.

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

Trendy Trees Mojo Monday 105

Welcome to this week's Mojo Monday sketch challenge (MOJO105).  It feels good to be back home with my family again.  However, my long weekend in St. George as part of the Stampin' Up! Founder's Circle Retreat was fabulous, inspiring and fun.  We got the thumbs up to share some early sneak peeks from the next Occasions Mini Catalog.  Stay tuned!

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• 

  Using the Stampin' Up! In Color Markers, I applied Rich Razzleberry, Dusty Durango and Soft Suede directly to the rubber of the tree leaves.  Be sure to "huff" a few times on the inked rubber to moisten before stamping.
• To layer the leaves precisely over the tree trunk, a Stamp-a-ma-jig is your BFF (best friend forever).
• A 1" Circle Punch was a life saver in creating the big scallop border.  I used the spiral "leaves" from the Trendy Trees stamp set before punching.
• Experiment with layering punches to produce unique effects.  I adore the Word Window Punch layered over the Modern Label Punch.  I swooped this clever idea from my Stampin' Pretty Pal, Melissa Young.
• I used the Photo Corners Punch to pop out the top left corner element.  It's perfect for creating a quick right angle.
• Think you can't use ribbon on a masculine card?  Sure you can.  Just keep it clean.  It dresses up a card in the way a tie dresses up a suit.  Check out more of my  masculine card samples.

DON'T MISS OUT!  There's still time to play the Pals Paper Arts KISS Challenge (Keep It Simple, Sweetie).  Check out the latest samples and let your artistic juices flow.

NEED A MINI CATALOG?  Have you seen the new Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog?  Click here for the on-line version or email me with your name and U.S. address to receive a free copy.

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

Stamp Set:  Trendy Trees (113258)
Paper:  Dusty Durango Designer Series Paper (115689), Dusty Durango (115321), Rich Razzleberry (115316), Soft Suede (115318), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Dusty Durango (115654), Rich Razzleberry (115658), Soft Suede (115657), Stampin' Up! In Color Markers (116329)
Cool Tools:  1" Circle Punch (109046), Modern Label Punch (116630), Word Window Punch (105090), Photo Corners Punch (109042), Stamp-a-ma-jig (101049)
The Perfect Touch:  Rich Razzleberry 1/2" Polka Dot Ribbon (115613), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Wings of Friendship

I'm still in St. George, UT, enjoying Stampin' Up!'s Founder's Circle retreat and the natural beauty of the mountains, red rock and blue skies.  Just wrapped up with the most divine facial ever! 

Last night was a pajama party and "monster" swap with 125 other demonstrators.  I'm overwhelmed by all the beautiful artwork and ideas I received from my fellow demos.  Karen Duke of Alberta, Canada, proved to be an elegant (and willing) pajama model.

Today's post highlights the card front I created for the swap (with the assistance of my daughter, Caroline) using Wings of Friendship (Hostess Rewards Level 2).  Did you know that on-line orders qualify for Stampin' Up! Hostess Rewards?  Team up with a few friends and take advantage of the free stamps and merchandise that Stampin' Up! offers beginning at $150 in product.  Click here for details.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• 

  Making 125 card fronts is quite an undertaking.  I offset a Very Vanilla square from the bird image layer to create an accent without having to add a more precise (full) mat.
• Punches (like the Large Oval and Scallop Oval used) make sentiments a snap.
• Textured backgrounds like the Finial Press (don't you love the exclusive Stampin' Up! Textured Impressions Folders?) add a big dose of "wow."
• A single rhinestone is all the bling this card needed.  I used both the yellow and red Circle Rhinestones (all sizes) from the Fire collection.

GOT MINI?  Have you seen the new Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog?  Click here for the on-line version or email me with your name and U.S. address to receive a free copy.

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

Stamp Set:  Wings of Friendship (114308, Hostess Rewards Level 2)
Paper:  More Mustard (100946), Ruby Red (102030), Very Vanilla (101650)
Ink:  Ruby Red (102259)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die Cut Machine (113439), Stampin' Up! Finial Press Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (115963), Large Oval Punch (107305), Scallop Oval Punch (114889)
The Perfect Touch:  Very Vanilla 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (109055), Circle Rhinestone Brads (109110, Fire), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Greetings from St. George UT

One of the lovely perks of being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator is recognition.  This year, 125 demonstrators were invited to St. George UT this weekend for a heavenly retreat.  I thought I would share some of the fun while I'm here!

I have received two brand new stamp sets at the retreat but currently am restricted from sharing the images.  I can promise you that they are very cool and am anxious to get home and play with them

When I returned to my room the first night, some pretty cool surprises were waiting for me.

Here's what was inside.  Woo Hoo!

Today kicked off with a quick workout for me, fabulous breakfast and an uninterrupted hour with a book by the pool.  I returned to my room for the most incredible massage of my life (followed by a nap, LOL).

About 75 of us headed for the Olive Garden for dinner.  Here I am with my tablemates.

We headed off to Tuacahn, a beautiful red rock canyon stage to see Aida (the Tim Rice and Elton John version).  At one point, water began to pour down the mountainside and ran onto the stage while the dancers and singers entertained . . . wild.

Here's a shot I grabbed of the red rock formations.  Very much like Sedona, if you have been there.
 
Back at the room, there was another surprise on the bed (I removed the pretty striped ribbon--oops).  The theme for Founder's Circle is all about Growth, Blooming and Gardens.  Hence, the Book the Secret Garden (a keepsake version). 

Shelli (Stampin' Up!'s CEO) personalized it which makes it even more precious.

I'm headed off to a card swap and pajama party . . . should be interesting and entertaining!

Hugs,

Mary

Pals Paper Arts KISS

Keep It Simple, Sweetie!  That's this week's Pals Paper Arts KISS Challenge (PPA8).  Are you ready to challenge yourself with fewer layers and embellishments?  Click here to play along and see the Stampin' Pretty Pals KISS samples.  We use Stampin' Up! products for our creations.  However, participants can use any brand they want :)

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• The skirt from the fashion catty below sparked my choices for colors and layout for PPA8. 

• Punches go a long way toward expediency.  I used four punches and the Stampin' Up! exclusive Little Leaves Sizzlits Die (three times) to rapidly create pretty card elements.
• Basic Black and Old Olive Textured card stock give a rich finish, requiring fewer embellishments.
• I used a retired Stampin' Up! 1/4" Circle Punch to create the flower centers.  Any 1/4" hole punch will work as a substitute (even the large hole on the Crop-A-Dile).
• A little embossing action with the Finial Press Textured Impressions Embossing Folder takes the envelope flap to wow in seconds.
• Click here for my favorite tips on creating Quick Cards (in less than 10 minutes).  

GOT MINI?   Have you seen the new Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog?  Click here for the on-line version or email me with your name and U.S. address to receive a free copy.

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

Stamp Set:  Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370)
Paper:  Basic Black Textured (108693), Very Vanilla (101650), Old Olive Textured (108697)
Ink:  Jet Black Stazon (101406)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Stampin' Up! Little Leaves Sizzlits Die (114511), Modern Label Punch (116630), Trio Flower Punch (109183), Corner Rounder Punch (109047), 1/4" Circle Hole Punch (Retired)
The Perfect Touch:  Very Vanilla 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (109055), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Gold Brads (104337)

Very Vanilla Medium Envelope (107300), Stampin' Up! Finial Press Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (115963)

I'm an SCS Dirty Dozen Gal!

The cat's out of the bag!  Today starts my design gig with the Splitcoaststampers Dirty Dozen!!

Please read about the Fan Club Gallery here.

My submissions under this month's "Winged Things" theme are linked below.  You DO have to be part of the Splitcoaststampers Fan Club to view these links. 

Want to know more about becoming a member?  CLICK HERE

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1477811?&cat=17658&perpage=96&thumbsonly=0

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1464491?&cat=17658&perpage=96&thumbsonly=0

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1474477?&cat=17658&perpage=96&thumbsonly=0

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1477812?&cat=17658&perpage=96&thumbsonly=0

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1477813?&cat=17658&perpage=96&thumbsonly=0

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1474476?&cat=17658&perpage=96&thumbsonly=0

http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/gallery/photo/1464492?&cat=17658&perpage=96&thumbsonly=0

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

Mojo Monday Medallion

Welcome to another Mojo Monday (MOJO104).  This sketch called for all things round . . . a perfect opportunity to use my Stampin' Up! Circle Punches (1 1/4", 1 3/8", 1 3/4" and Scallop Circle) and play with these Pumpkin Pie flower brads. 

 

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• I find lots of inspiration from home décor and fashion magazines.  The colors and style of today's card were dictated by the skirt from a clothing catalog (above).
• Popping out a contrasting color for the Medallion is a snap using Stampin' Up!'s 1 3/4" Circle Punch.
• Make brad alignment a breeze.  I use my Mat Pack Template and a Paper Piercer to "set" my holes before popping in the brads.

QUESTIONS ON THIS CARD?  I'm happy to answer your questions (and love your comments).  Simply leave your question as a comment at the end of this post. Check back for your answer (usually within 24 hours).

LOVE A CHALLENGE?  There's still time to participate in the Pals Paper Arts Weekly Challenge.  Click here for inspiration samples and to try this week's sketch.

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

Stamps:  Medallion Background (115223), Matchbox Messages (113800)
Paper:  Perfect Plum Designer Series Paper (112158), Perfect Plum (101437), Pumpkin Pie (105117), Old Olive (100702), Always Artichoke (105119)
Ink:  Perfect Plum (101437), Pumpkin Pie (105216), Always Artichoke (105219)
Cool Tools:  Circle Punches:  1 1/4" (104403), 1 3/8" (104401), 1 3/4" (112004), Scallop Circle (109043),  Mat Pack (105826), Paper Piercer (116631)
The Perfect Touch:  Circle Rhinestone Brads (109111, Ice), Flower Designer Brads (112579), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Laptop Daisies

 

I did a little jazzing up of my laptop today using Décor Elements.  The White Upsy Daisies transformed my black plastic laptop into a hip, modern techno garden.  Décor Elements are home décor vinyl wall coverings that can transform most smooth surfaces (walls, glass, metal) into art. Stampin' Up! offers a beautiful variety including holiday, traditional, modern and children/baby options. 

Need a Definitely Decorative brochure (30 pages which include the Décor Elements and Décor Stencils product lines)?  Click on the brochure cover above to instantly see the brochure on-line or email me your name and address if you would like me to mail you a free copy.

Here are a couple of my favorite examples from the brochure.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Be sure to purchase the Décor Elements Applicator (114285, $1.95).  It makes transfer much easier.
• Measure and mark before getting the image ready for transfer.
• Don't rush.  If the image hasn't fully transferred, you can lay the backing sheet back down and continue to rub with the applicator to transfer.

DON'T MISS:  The Definitely Decorative product line offers additional hostess choices with qualifying orders.

Dasher Hostess Level 2 (117958).  Comes in black, chocolate, real red, and white.

CLICK HERE for the Stampin' Up! Décor Elements Growth Chart Promotion.

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

 

Criss Cross Gift Certificate

 

Her friends said she loved Cottage Wall Designer Series Paper.  It was just the inspiration I needed for putting together this gift certificate for Judy's retirement--a gift this passionate stamper was delighted to have.

Do you know someone who loves to stamp or perhaps you want to drop a hint to a significant other?  I can create a Stampin' Up! gift certificate with the recipient's favorite colors or products in mind (redeemable exclusively thru me, minimum $35) or can even whip up an e-card gift certificate in 24 hours as a last minute gift.  Click here for more details.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Criss Cross cards offer the perfect pocket for a gift certificate or gift card.  Click here for Beate's Splitcoaststampers tutorial on how to create one.
• Stampin' Up!'s Designer Series Paper collections mix and match beautifully.  Such fun to mix patterns with this design.
• Juice up the back of any card with a personalized stamp.  I used the "Hand Stamped By" Stamp (115602).  It fits neatly in the Designer Label Punch(107590). 

Note:  Personalized stamps cannot be ordered on-line.  Click here to email me if you would like to order one.  You can combine with additional Stampin' Up! products.

GOT MINI?  Have you seen the new Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog?  Click here for the on-line version or email me with your name and U.S. address to receive a free copy.

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

Paper:  Cottage Wall Designer Series (115671), Whisper White (100730), Orchid Opulence Textured (108698), Rich Razzleberry Textured (115538), Old Olive Textured (108697)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die Cut Machine (113439), Bigz Daisies #2 Flower (114520), Boho Blossoms Punch (110711), Round Tab Punch (108340), Scallop Edge Punch (112091)
The Perfect Touch:  Circle Rhinestone Brads (109111, Ice), Filigree Designer Brads (112577), Rich Razzleberry 1/2" Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115613)

Designer Series Paper Color Chart

I marvel at my talented niece and Stampin' Pretty Pal, Kris Kilcoyne's card collections.  They coordinate beautifully and radiate simplicity. 

Kris is also a whiz on the computer and created one of my everyday paper crafting essentials, a Stampin' UP! Designer Series Color Chart. Whenever I'm deciding on a color combo for a project, I can flip to her chart and quickly see which colors are included in the designer papers.  This chart even includes designer paper colors for the new Holiday Mini Catalog.   I added it to my left side bar tutorial list for future reference.

Here's the link to her Kween Bee Kreations post with the specifics for this adorable grouping using Tall Tales Designer Series Paper (plus a charming idea for her little guy, Devlin).

Click each photo to enlarge

    
     

GOT MINI?  Have you seen the new Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog?  Click here for the on-line version or email me with your name and U.S. address to receive a free copy.

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

PPA7 Sketch Challenge

The foundation of a balanced card is a thoughtful sketch.  This week's Pals Paper Arts Challenge (PPA7) is a versatile layout by Margaret Moody, one of my Stampin' Pretty Pals.  Ready to take your paper crafting skills to a new level?  Try the latest PPA challenge.  Click here for details and our inspiration samples.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Circle Punches (including the Scallop Circle Punch) make layering incredibly easy.   Fun and flirty "shopping," "new shoes" and "chocolate" stamps pulled together in a snap.  
• I added a Real Red Heart (using the Heart to Heart Punch) in place of the word "love" on the sentiment.

• Gussy up the interior.  A Full Heart Punch of Real Red card stock is layered over a 1 3/4" Circle Punch of Chocolate Chip.  Stamp the sentiment first, flip over your punch to line up where you want your text.  Voilà!

• No need to keep your hand stamped creations a secret.  Sign your artwork by using one of  Stampin' Up!'s personalized stamps on the back.

GOT MINI?  Have you seen the new Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog?  Click here for the on-line version or email me with your name and U.S. address to receive a free copy pronto.

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

Stamp Set:  Things I Love (115229)
Paper:  Thoroughly Modern Designer Series Paper (115673), Chocolate Chip Textured (108697), Very Vanilla (101650), Real Red (102482)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908), Real Red (103133)
Cool Tools:  1 1/4 (104403), 1 3/8 (104401) and Scallop Circle (109043) Punches, Heart to Heart Punch (113694)
The Perfect Touch:  Real Red 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109034), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Inside:  Full Heart (113693) and 1 3/4" Circle (112004) Punches

Back:  "Hand Stamped By" Personalized Stamp (115602)

Guest Stamper Karren

It's delightful for me to showcase paper crafting talent on my Stampin' Pretty blog.  Today's card was created by Guest Stamper Karren Reda, one of my virtual stamping buddies and paper artist extraordinaire.  Thanks, Karren!  I love the mix of Rich Razzleberry and Dusty Durango--a colorful spin using one of Stampin' Up!'s hottest selling stamps, Medallion Background (115223, $17.95).

• The Medallion stamp was inked with Rich Razzleberry Ink and stamped twice, once on 5 1/8" square of Dusty Durango and once on a scrap of same.
• The Medallion stamp was inked with Craft Whisper White and stamped a bit off center on the scrap of Dusty Durango.
• The center is cut and adhered to the 5 1/8" square with Stampin' Dimensionals
• Rich Razzleberry Polka Dot Grosgrain is tied around the Dusty Durango panel.
• Layer on 5 1/4" square of Rich Razzleberry.
• Layer on 5 1/2" square card base of Whisper White.
• The white buttons Karren used are not Stampin' Up!  TIP:  However, Whisper White buttons are available in Stampin' Up!'s Button Latte collection (114333) or Whisper White 5/16" Jumbo Brads (112534) could be very chic, too.
• The Rich Razzleberry sentiment combines the Large Oval and Scallop Oval Punches and "Just for You" from the Oval All stamp set.
• TIP:  Size the card base down 1/4" if you would like to use it with Stampin' Up!'s Whisper White Medium Square Envelopes (107289).

MAD FOR THE NEW MINI?  Have you seen the new Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog?  Click here for the on-line version or email me with your name and U.S. address to receive a free copy.

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

Stamp Set:  Medallion (115223), Oval All (113790)
Paper:  Rich Razzleberry (115658), Dusty Durango (115654), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Rich Razzleberry (115658), Whisper White Craft (101731)
Cool Tools:  Large Oval Punch (107305), Scallop Oval Punch (114889)
The Perfect Touch:  Rich Razzleberry Polka Dot 1/2" Grosgrain Ribbon (115613), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Lovely Blog Candy Winner

Thank you so much for your shower of sweet comments and support for my Stampin' Pretty blog reaching 1,000,000 visits!  There were over 550 comments and I have read every one.  You shared many of your favorites from the new Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog.  Clearly, the Delightful Decorations stamp set, coordinating Ornament Punch and Sweet Centers were hot bananas.  However, many of you are anxious to start digital scrapbooking (including me) with My Digital Studio (available October 1).

I chose a random comment (using a random number generator) as the winner of my Lovely Blog Candy Giveaway!  Congratulations Regina Van Lieu for the following comment. 

"Congratulations! Love your blog and thank you for sharing your creativity. My favorite set in the holiday mini is the Delightful Decorations with the punch and the rub-ons, of course."

Regina, please email me in the next 24 hours with your U.S. address so that I can send you your "lovely" prize!

Thanks to all for playing along :)

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