Stampin' Pretty - My Fun & Chic Stampin' Up! Boutique, Mary Fish, Stampin' Up! Demonstrator, Video Tutorials

Stampin' Pretty RAK's

Is there anything more special than being the recipient of a Random Act of Kindness (RAK)?  The card above was given to me by Ginger Toivonen of my Stampin' Pretty Pals.  I love how the Petal Pizzazz  and Flight of the Butterfly (sentiment) stamps are combined.  It is a CASE from Jamie Sears at stampingmommyof4.com. 

The card below was a thank your from my fellow Tucson, AZ Stampin' Up! demonstrator, Ginny Tabor.  She says that this card is not her original idea but isn't 100% where she first saw it (maybe Splitcoaststampers).  If anyone knows whom I should credit, leave me a comment below.  I will update this post with the info!  Thank you, Ginny, for your beautiful execution.

UPDATE:  Here are tips and instructions from Ginny.  Also, thanks to reader Jeanna . . . who shared this excellent tutorial from Barbara Jean Smith (we think she's the original designer):

As far as tips on making the card, I've made it with 12 x 12 cardstock as well as 8 1/2 x 11.  I prefer to use the 12 x 12, as that way the card totally overlaps on each side, but it will look okay using the regular size, too.
When using 12x12, I cut it down to 5 1/2 x 12 - that way you can get two cards from each sheet.  I then score at 3 7/8 and at 8 1/8 on the long side.  I place the embossing folder so that the widest part of the flower is lined up against the scoring line or fold of the card, then flip the embossing folder (not the cardstock) so that the other "flap" is also lined up with the widest part of the embossed flower on the fold.   That way, one side is "embossed" and the other flap is "debossed".  I use my paper snips to cut around the flower on each flap, cut "up" on the score lines to the top of the card, then round the corners at the top.  You may want to trim each side of the card just a bit, so that the card lays flat and doesn't have excess bulk when folded.  This is probably as clear as mud, so feel free to e-mail me with questions, and I'll try to answer.

I love the monochromatic color scheme and texture from the Stampin' Up! Manhattan Flower Embossing Folder (114517).  What a "wow" card!

FILL YOUR WISH LIST AND SAVE $$$.  Click for details on the Stampin' Up! Sale-A-Bration Starter Kit Promotion.

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

Crisp Pheasant Duo

Crisp is the essence of a masculine card.  I originally created this masculine duo for the Splitcoaststampers Fan Club gallery last fall.  However, the images work year round when Bordering Blue card stock is tossed in.  Click for my Masculine Card Tips or to see more Masculine Card Samples.

THEY'RE BACK!!  Many Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog favorites are back for purchase.  Click to view Available Holiday Mini Catalog Products.

CARD 

Stamp Set:  Autumn Days (115452)
Paper:  Chocolate Chip Designer Series (112164), Bordering Blue (102630), Chocolate Chip (102128), Sahara Sand (105328), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908)
Cool Tools:  1 1/4" Square Punch (104400), 1 3/8" Square Punch (103375), Paper Snips (103579)
The Perfect Touch:  Chit Chat Rub-Ons (111804), Latte Designer Series Button (114333), Linen Thread (104199), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

TREAT BAG:

Stamp Set: Tiny Tags (Occasions Mini Catalog:  Wood Mount 118091, Clear Mount 118592)
Paper:  Chocolate Chip Designer Series (112164), Bordering Blue (102630), Chocolate Chip (102128), Sahara Sand (105328), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908)
Cool Tools:  Stampin' Up! Top Note Bigz Die (113463), Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), 3/4" Circle Punch (107217), 1/16" Circle Hand Held Punch (101227)
The Perfect Touch:  Whisper White 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109070), Linen Thread (104199), Small Flat Cellophane Bag (103104)

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

Envelope Envy Video Tutorial Part Two

Grab your popcorn.  It's time for my Envelope Envy Video Part Two!  Honestly, it's so quick and easy, you won't have time more than a handful of kernels.  Did you miss Envelope Envy Part One?  Click to learn how to line the interior of your envelopes.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Build a card "quilt" using Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper (Occasions Mini Catalog) and Stampin' Up!'s 1 1/4" Square Punch.  All the color and pattern coordination is done for you!
• Delicious . . . Have you seen the Satin Ribbon in nine Stampin' Up! colors in the Occasions Mini Catalog (p. 27)?  I used silky Chocolate Chip.  Yummy!
• Click (and scroll down) to view my previous Occasions Mini and Sale-A-Bration samples.

EARN FREE STAMPS (including Vintage Labels used today) with every $50 you spend in Stampin' Up! Product.  Click here for full details on the Stampin' Up! Sale-A-Bration Promotion.

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

Stamp Set:  Vintage Labels (Sale-A-Bration:  Wood-Mount 118392, Clear-Mount 119122)
Paper:  Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Pack (117161, Occasions Mini), Pumpkin Pie (105117), So Saffron (105118), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908), Taken With Teal (103257)
Cool Tools:  Small Oval (107304) and Wide Oval (112082) Punches, 1 1/4" Square Punch (104400)
The Perfect Touch:  Chocolate Chip 1/2" Satin Ribbon (117287, Occasions Mini), Stampin' Dimensionals

Whisper White Medium Envelope, Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Pack (Occasions Mini), Paper Snips

Pals Paper Arts Bird Inspiration

The "bird is the word" for this week's Pals Paper Arts Inspiration Challenge (PPA31).  Our inspiration photo (below) offers a delightful array of birdie ideas from retro to vintage.  Discover the rest of the PPA Design Team's inspiration samples by CLICKING HERE.  Play along!

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Are these stamp images from Stampin' Up!?  Not yet but they will be.  This is an early sneak peek of "Elements of Style" from the Summer Mini Catalog (available May 1).
• The floral image really grooves when embossed in white.
• Like this style but can't wait for the set?  Try any of Stampin' Up!'s background stamps or any large stamp image as an alternative.
• To create the three panels, stamp first on card stock in a width that's easily divided by three.
• Length can be whatever you need.  For this card, each width is 1 1/8" wide.  My original image was stamped on 3 3/8" wide card stock, then divided.  Make sense?

FILL YOUR STAMPIN' UP! WISH LIST AND SAVE $$$.  Join Stampin' Up! and my Stampin' Pretty Pals during Sale-A-Bration and save instantly.  Click to Learn More!

COMING UP TOMORROW:    I'll kick off my Envelope Envy Video Tutorial Part Two.  If you missed part one on lining an envelope, click to view Envelope Envy Video Tutorial Part One.

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

Stamp Set:  Elements of Style (Summer Mini Catalog, available 5/1).
Paper:  Bordering Blue (102630), Ruby Red (102030), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  VersaMark (102283), Jet Black Stazon (101406)
Cool Tools:  Large Oval Punch (107305), Scallop Oval Punch (114889), Paper Snips (103579), Stampin' Up! Heat Tool (100005)
The Perfect Touch:  Clear Circle Rhinestone Brads (113144), Whisper White Organza Ribbon (114319), White Embossing Powder, Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

PPA31 Sneak Peek Wednesday

Here's a sneak peek of my Pals Paper Arts design for tomorrow's weekly challenge.  The PPA Design Team and Pals Featured Stamper will be ready to dazzle you with their inspiration samples.  Hmmm . . . what will this week's challenge be?  Are you ready to play at the PPA?

Every Wednesday, the Pals Paper Arts Design Team honors three standouts from the previous week's open challenge.  Pals Paper Arts Picks are up.  CLICK HERE to see which participants' projects wooed the judges to "WOW!"

COMING UP FRIDAY:  Part two of my "Envelope Envy" video tutorial series debuts.  Stay tuned.  If you missed part one on lining envelopes, click Envelope Envy Video Part One.

SWEET, SWEETER, SWEETEST:  You can earn Stampin' Up! Hostess Rewards when you place a qualifying on-line order.  Sweeten the deal with the current Sale-A-Bration promotion--your choice of over 80 free gifts with every $50 you spend.  The sweetest yet?  Fill your hobby stamper wish list with Stampin' Up!'s Sale-A-Bration Starter Kit Promotion.

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

Envelope Envy Video Part One

Ready for my quick and easy tips on giving your envelopes polish?  Today kicks off part one of three video tutorials on simple ways to jazz up your envelopes for a coordinated look with your hand crafted cards. 

UPDATE:  I suggest a strong adhesive to seal the envelope (since the original envelope flap adhesive gets covered).  Stampin' Up! 2-Way Glue should do the trick and is quick and easy to use--just swipe along the top of the flap.  When sealing the envelope, be sure to adhere immediately (while glue is blue) and hold for a few seconds--M

This masculine birthday card takes shape in minutes using my hobby blade and cutting mat.  Very retro and clean.  My inspiration comes from the bold orange and stainless kitchen below, part of a monochromatic color challenge at Kween Bee Kreations.

SALE-A-BRATION CONTINUES!  The stamp images I used are both from Wow Flowers, one of the 80+ free items available with every $50 you spend on Stampin' Up! products during Sale-A-Bration. View Stampin' Up! Sale-A-Bration Details!

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

Stamp Set:  Wow Flowers (120255, Sale-A-Bration)
Paper:  Brushed Silver Card Stock (100712), Pumpkin Pie (105117), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Jet Black Stazon (101406)
Cool Tools:  Hobby Blade (102449), Cutting Mat (101087), Circle Punches:  1" (109046), 1 1/4" (104403), 1 3/8" (104401), Modern Label Punch (116630)
The Perfect Touch:  Silver Jumbo Brad (112534, 5/16" Jumbo Brads Neutrals), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Envelope:  Whisper White Medium Envelope (107301), Pumpkin Pie Designer Series (112159), 2-Way Glue (100425), Paper Snips (103579)

Mojo Monday127: Easel

Isn't this easel fun?  For this week's Mojo Monday sketch challenge  (MOJO127), I created an easel card that will help celebrate my teenage nephew's 14th birthday.  I think it has enough birthday whimsy without being too young for him.  The bold colors bring out the Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper (Occasions Mini Catalog) and masculine, geometric shapes.  Click and scroll for more of my masculine card ideas.

Round or Square?  Take your pick for this week's Mojo challenge.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• The easel portion of this 4 1/4" x 4 1/4" card (closed) is whipped up in minutes.  Click here for the Splitcoaststampers Easel Card Tutorial and video I relied on.
• A punched star, brad and Pumpkin Pie strip are the "kickstand" when the card is set up.
• Line up your brads with precision.  I used Stampin' Up!'s Paper-Piercing Tool and Piercing Mat (included in the Mat Pack) to help these Vintage Brads become a happy "chorus line."
• Mini Glue Dots adhere the large button with superhero strength.  For a polished touch, I "threaded" a skinny piece of Chocolate Chip card stock through the button holes.
• Stampin' Up!'s Stampin' Write Markers were used to color the sentiment with three different colors.  I love the results.
• Need inspiration?  See all my Sale-A-Bration and Occasions Mini Catalog projects in one place!  

THEY'RE BACK!!  Many Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog favorites are back for purchase.  Click to view Available Holiday Mini Catalog Products.

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

Stamp Set:  Whimsical Words (Sale-A-Bration: Wood-Mount 118386, Clear-Mount 119119)
Paper:  Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Stack (117161), Taken With Teal (101584), Pumpkin Pie (105117), So Saffron (105118), Chocolate Chip (102128), Sahara Sand (105328), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Stampin'  Write Markers:  Chocolate Chip (100071), Taken With Teal (100068), Pumpkin Pie (105115)
Cool Tools:  Large Star Punch (110710), Star Punch (109045), Paper Piercing Tool (116631), Piercing Template (105826, Stampin' Up! Mat Pack)
The Perfect Touch:  Vintage Brads (109109), Chocolate Chip 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (109051), Pumpkin Pie 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109030), Sherbet Designer Series Button (116312), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Mini Glue Dots (103683)

Pals Guest Stamper: Kalshelia

Today's Guest Stamper, Kalshelia Lloyd of my Stampin' Pretty Pals, shows off her pretty style and eye for detail with the sympathy card above.  Of course, I'm digging the coordinated envelope, too.  Thanks, Kalshelia, for sharing your artwork on my Stampin' Pretty blog!

To see more of Kalshelia's lovely designs, click to visit her Stampin' Fabulousity blog!  Be sure to check out this little chic lunchbox . . . one of my favorites!

TIP:  Kalshelia used the scallop circle punch to create the adorable blossom. 

Stamp: Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370)
Ink: Chocolate Chip (100908)
Paper: So Saffron (105118), Chocolate Chip (102128), Certain Celery DSP (112154), (Shades of Spring (117160)
Kool Tools: 1/16" hole punch (101227), Scallop Circle Punch (109043) Curly Label Punch (112208), Scallop Trim edge punch (118402)
Fabulous Finish: Certain Celery 5/8" satin ribbon (117288), Circle Fire rhinestone brads (109110)

Would you like to join my Stampin' Pretty Pals?  Check out the current Sale-A-Bration Starter Kit Promotion.

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

Pawsitively Prints Petals

I'm mad for plaid.  Perhaps it's my Scottish roots.  The sweet patterns in the Stampin' Up! Pawsitively Prints Designer Series Paper aren't exclusive to Build-A-Bear projects.  Experiment and have fun with the coordinated colors and charming designs!

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Have a Circle Punch?  You are just 5 punches away from a simple flower.
• The Pretties Half Back Pearl tucks into the button opening like it was custom made for it.  A Mini Glue Dot (103683) anchors it in place.
• This simple sentiment from Thank You Kindly is one of the 80+ free stamp sets available with every $50 you spend during Sale-a-Bration.
• Stampin' Up!'s Taffeta Ribbon (shown in Pretty in Pink) is my absolute favorite for tying a pretty knot.  In my opinion, it's the easiest to get right the first time!
• Ribbon Knot challenged?  Click for my video tutorial:  Tying a Pretty Ribbon Knot.

BUILD-A-BEAR SPECIAL OFFER!  For every $20 spent on products from the Stampin' Up! Build-A-Bear Workshop Collection, receive a coupon (item 121105) for $5 off a $25 purchase at any Build-A-Bear Workshop store.  Ends April 30, 2010.

HOT NEWS!  Stampin' Up! has continued many Holiday Mini Items.  Check out which Holiday Mini Catalog products are available for purchase NOW!

COMING UP TOMORROW:  One of my Stampin' Pretty Pals is prepared to dazzle you with her talents as my Stampin' Pretty Pals Guest Stamper.

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

Stamp Set:  Thank You Kindly (Sale-A-Bration, 120248)
Paper:  Pawsitively Prints Designer Series (118060, Build-A-Bear Collection), Pretty in Pink (100459), Very Vanilla (101650), Old Olive Textured Card Stock (108697, Assorted Earth Elements)
Ink:  Old Olive (102277)
Cool Tools:  Eyelet Border Punch (113692), 1 1/4" Circle Punch (104403), 1" Circle Punch (109046)
The Perfect Touch:  Pretty in Pink Brads (106954, Soft Subtles Brads), Pretty in Pink Taffeta Ribbon (109067), Sherbet Designer Series Buttons (116312), Pretties Vanilla Half Back Pearl (109114, Pretties Kit), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Very Vanilla Medium Envelope (107300), Pawsitively Prints Designer Series (118060, Build-A-Bear Collection)

Sweet Treat Bag Cover

My treat bag cover today was quick and easy.  I love how the base design makes a sturdy stand.  No tipsy, baby!   Beate Johns of Splitcoaststampers always blows me away with her amazing ideas and simple tutorial directions.  Click for Beate's Treat Bag Cover Tutorial.

M & M's tuck neatly inside in a Stampin' Up! Small Flat Cello Bag!

TREAT BAG COVER:

Stamp Sets:  Fox & Friends (Occasions Mini: Wood-Mount 117020, Clear-Mount 118565), Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370), Razzle Dazzle (116714)
Paper:  Welcome Neighbor Designer Series Paper Pad (118401, Sale-A-Bration), Crushed Curry (115319), Real Red (102482), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Crushed Curry (115659), Real Red (103133), Bermuda Bay (115655)
Cool Tools:  Pinking Hearts Border Punch (117649), Crop-A-Dile (108362), Small Oval Punch (107304), 1 3/8" Circle Punch (104401), Scallop Circle Punch (109043)
The Perfect Touch:  Real  Red 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109034), Silver Elastic Cord (retired), Metallic Silver Eyelet (105319), Small Flat Cello Bag (103104), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

3 X 3 CARD

Stamp Set:  Picture This (Occasions Mini Hostess Level 1: Wood-Mount 116928, Clear-Mount 118538)
Paper:  Crushed Curry Designer Series Paper (115686), Bermuda Bay(115317),  Real Red (102482), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Real Red (103133)
Cool Tools:  Small Oval Punch (107304), Large Oval Punch (107305), 5 Petal Flower Punch (109041), Trio Flower Punch (109183),1/4" Circle Punch (retired)
The Perfect Touch:  Real Red Corduroy Buttons (Occasions Mini, 117268), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)
Envelope:  Whisper White Mini Square Envelope (107309), Razzle Dazzle Stamp Set (116714)

Dazzled by SU's Shimmer Paints or in awe of the Ornament Punch? Many items from the Holiday Mini Catalog are available NOW and will be carried over to the Stampin' Up! 2010-2011 Idea Book and Catalog.  Click for the Holiday Mini Product List.

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

PPA KISS Challenge

The very essence of a KISS is always intriguing.  This week's Pals Paper Arts KISS Challenge (Keep It Simple Sweetie) promises to be intriguing, too!  I enjoyed keeping things clean and crisp for my PPA card today  Discover the rest of the PPA Design Team's inspiration samples by CLICKING HERE.  Play along!

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Whisper White and a single bold color like Rich Razzleberry, define the simplicity of this card.  
• Layering Whisper White on Whisper White creates a faux embossed look that I'm "nutso" over!
• Gently twist the ends of your tied ribbon if you want the polka dot side up.
• A lined envelope adds a pretty, coordinated polish in seconds.
• A simple interior can make a big statement.  In keeping with the KISS theme, I scored at 1/2" on each side of a Whisper White Layer to tuck inside.

 

SWEET, SWEETER, SWEETEST:  You can earn Stampin' Up! Hostess Rewards when you place a qualifying on-line order.  Sweeten the deal with the current Sale-A-Bration promotion--your choice of over 80 free gifts with every $50 you spend.  The sweetest yet?  Fill your hobby stamper wish list with Stampin' Up!'s Sale-A-Bration Starter Kit Promotion.

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

Stamp Sets:  Picture This (Occasions Mini Hostess Level 1:  Wood Mount 116928, Clear-Mount 118538), Circle Circus (115778, flower center)
Paper:  Whisper White (100730), Rich Razzleberry Textured (115538, Assorted In Colors), Rich Razzleberry Designer Series (115685)
Ink:  Rich Razzleberry (115658)
Cool Tools:  Corner Rounder Punch (109047), 3/4" Circle Punch (107217), Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Bigz Daisies #2 Flower Die (114520)
The Perfect Touch:  Rich Razzleberry 1/2" Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115613), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

PPA Sneak Peek Wednesday

Here's a sneak peek of my Pals Paper Arts design for tomorrow's weekly challenge.  The PPA Design Team and Pals Featured Stamper will be ready to dazzle you with their inspiration samples.  Hmmm . . . what will this week's challenge be?  Are you ready to play at the PPA?

Every Wednesday, the Pals Paper Arts Design Team honors three standouts from the previous week's open challenge.  Pals Paper Arts Picks will be announced today.  CLICK HERE to see which participants' projects wooed the judges to "WOW!"

CHECK IT OUT!  Lads and Lassies . . .  I made a "wee bit" of change to my banner from now to St. Patties!  What do you think?

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

Sunny and Sweet Treat

This sunny bloom was originally created for the Splitcoaststampers Fan Club as part of my Dirty Dozen gig last fall.  You may have seen this 5 1/4 square card if you are a fan club member.  However, for many of you, it will be your first peek :)  This card was one of my favorite uses of a Stampin' Up! Sweet Treat Cup.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• The petals are Large and Small Oval Punches of More Mustard card stock.  The edges were sponged in Chocolate Chip for depth.
• I used a 1 3/4" Circle Punch to clip the base of each petal so it would fit around the Treat Cup.
• Aren't the Chocolate only M & M's perfect?
• The sentiment is from Bella's Bloom, one of the free stamp set options for qualifying Stampin' Up! Sale-A-Bration orders.  Click here for Sale-A-Bration details.
• Don't forget the envies!  Stampin' Up! offers Sweet Treat Padded Envelopes (116911, $2.95 for 3 envelopes) to make sending a breeze.

Yesterday marked the opening of a new (and my last) Dirty Dozen Fan Club Gallery.  I have loved serving my six months with this talented group of paper crafting artists.  The latest theme is "Bold, Masculine and Dirty."  If you are a Fan Club member or wish to join, click here to see my new projects and the rest of the Dirty Dozen projects. 

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

Stamp  Set:  Bella's Bloom (111600)
Paper:  Chocolate Chip Designer Series (112164), More Mustard (100946), Chocolate Chip (102128), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908)
Cool Tools:  Large (107305) and Small (107304) Oval Punches, 1 3/4" Circle Punch (112004), Boho Blossoms Punch (110711), Stamping Sponges (101610)
The Perfect Touch:  Chocolate Chip 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (111367). Jumbo Brads 5 1/6" Neutrals (112534), Sweet Treat Cup (116802), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Sweet Mojo Monday 126

Welcome to another Mojo Monday sketch challenge (MOJO126).   My Mojomaker design for this sketch takes whimsical advantage of patterns from Stampin' Up!'s Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper.  

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Stack (p. 33, Occasions Mini Catalog) offers 48 sheets of coordinated colors and pattern.  Perfect for spring and summer.
• Have you noticed the single stamps on p. 42 of the Occasions Mini?  They add the perfect shot of background or design to any card.  I used the A to Z stamp for this card.  See right photo.
• Here's another single stamp example using the Solid Stripes stamp (on the heart).
• A touch of bling with a Clear Circle Rhinestone Brad perks up the birthday sentiment.

To see all my Sale-A-Bration and Occasions Mini Catalogs samples, CLICK HERE!

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

Stamp Sets:  A - Z (115711, Occasions Mini Catalog), Vintage Labels (Sale-A-Bration:  Wood-Mount 118392, Clear-Mount 119122)
Paper:  Sweet Pea Designer Series (117161, Occasions Mini Catalog), So Saffron Textured (108696, Assorted Rich Regals), Taken With Teal (101584), Chocolate Chip (102128), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Taken With Teal (103257), Chocolate Chip (100908)
Cool Tools:  Scallop Edge Punch (112091), Round Tab Punch (108340), 1" Circle Punch (109046), 1 1/4" Circle Punch (104403)
The Perfect Touch:  Clear Circle Rhinestone Brad (113144), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Pals Guest Stamper Regina

Happy Valentine's Day!  I have a delicious treat for you today!  Meet Regina Mangum, one of my Stampin' Pretty Pals.  It's her turn to strut her artistic stuff today on my Stampin' Pretty blog.  She was also this week's Pals Paper Arts Featured Stamper.  See it now!

Please be sure to visit Regina's blog, The Stampin' Bean, for a stunning display of paper crafting talent.

In Regina's own words:

I know it's Valentine's Day, but I just had to make a card for my cousin, who just received the wonderful news that she is expecting a baby girl and so I really wanted to make her a card to help celebrate her soon-to-arrive bundle of joy. Also, I just got a new sewing machine (I have NO idea how to sew, so I was a bit frightened of using it!) and wanted to try it out on something simple. For this card, I used the sweet images from Picnic Parade and colored with Stampin' Write markers. I popped out the adorable bunny over some "grass" created with the Scallop Border Punch. For the "baby" sentiment on the flag, I stamped with the new Tiny Tags clear-mount stamp and acrylic blocks, which made the fit an absolute breeze.

Recipe: (Unless otherwise noted, all materials are Stampin' Up!) Picnic Parade and Tiny Tags Clear-Mount Stamps; Chocolate Chip and Melon Mambo Classic Dye Ink; Stampin' Write Markers; Welcome Neighbor Designer Series Paper Pad; Melon Mambo, So Saffron, Certainly Celery, Pretty in Pink, and Whisper White Cardstock; Scallop Border Punch; Foam Dimensional Squares (generic); Pink Grosgrain Ribbon (generic); Yellow Button (generic); White thread and Sewing Machine

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

Simple Saturday Star Card

See the sweet windows on the card?  Stampin' Up!'s Movers and Shapers Bigz XL Die is your fast track to quick and classy cards.  Click here for my Movers & Shapers 101 Video Tutorial.

The XL Movers & Shapers Bigz Die comes packaged with the magnetic Curly Label Die (114506).  In addition, Stampin' Up! offers a set of four punch windows (115953, Scallop Oval, Modern Label, Heart and Star).  Each individual piece is magnetic, movable and used in conjunction with the Bigz Die.  For example, I could move the star die anywhere within the area above.  I combined the star and modern label for today's card.

The very essence of quick . . . not only do you get fun shapes, the bigz die cuts and scores (yep, scores) a perfect 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (A2) card.  Trés cool!  

In a single trip thru the Big Shot Die-Cut Machine, you have the card above.

The star and modern label window openings coordinate with the Stampin' Up! Large Star (110710) and Modern Label (116630) Punches.  The punch sizes are a touch smaller so they can peek through the window.

The interior is quite splashy with this mix of Rich Razzleberry and Dusty Durango.

Let's Step It Up but keep the added work to a minimum.  Slivers of Rich Razzleberry card stock are paper pierced and contribute as stripes.  Three Pewter Brads (109109, Vintage Brads) jazz up the side.

Brown parcel paper is officially my only wrapping paper in the house.  It looks gorgeous stamped or stenciled.  However, I'm such a punch maven.  I popped out large and small stars to give it a trendy, masculine finish for my husband, Scott's, birthday.

The stamp on the tag is courtesy of Stampin' Up!'s Sale-A-Bration Promotion . . . the entire set of Vintage Labels is free when you spend $50.  See images below.  Click for an instant Sale-A-Bration Catalog and over 80 FREE options.

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

Stamp Set:  Vintage Labels (Sale-A-Bration: 118392 Wood-Mount, 119122 Clear-Mount)
Paper:  Rich Razzleberry, Dusty Durango, Rich Razzleberry Designer Series, Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Rich Razzleberry, Dusty Durango
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (1134439), Stampin' Up! Movers & Shapers Die and Curly Label Piece (114506), Magnetic Movers & Shapers Punch Windows (115953, Set of 4), Large Star Punch (110710), Star Punch (109045), Paper-Piercing Tool (116631), Modern Label Punch (116630), Wide Oval Punch (112082)
The Perfect Touch:  Vintage Brads, Square Rhinestone Brad (Ice, 109112), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

To a Special Sweetheart

This valentine is for my father-in-law, Jim.  I'm confident he will enjoy the bold color combo, and, of course, the candies!  My husband has  inherited Jim's sweet tooth gene. 

I used the Stampin' Up! Movers & Shapers Bigz Die and Punch Windows to create the heart and modern label sentiment opening.  Need to know more?  Watch my Movers and Shapers 101 Video Tutorial! 

STAY TUNED!  I'll offer more tips, photos and and a new card using these fun dies in tomorrow's post. 

WORKSHOP OF A LIFETIME!  I wanted to thank those of you who have been leaving me sweet comments and sending emails congratulating me on earning the Stampin' Up! Workshop of a Lifetime.  I'm hovering between excitement and nerves.  Shelli Gardner will be traveling to Tucson and conducting a workshop in my home.  I'll be sharing more details on my Stampin' Pretty blog once a date has been set.  

CLICK HERE to learn more about how you can order the Stampin' Up! Heart Treat Cups and Sweetheart Stamp Set. 

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

Stamp Sets:  Sweetheart (Occasions Mini Special Offer:  Wood-Mount 120415, Clear-Mount 120780), Short and Sweet (115060)
Paper:  Bermuda Bay Textured (115538, Assorted In Colors), Whisper White (100730), Real Red (102482)
Ink:  Jet Black Stazon (101406)
Cool Tools:  Big-Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Stampin' Up! Movers & Shapers Bigz Die (114506), Stampin' Up! Magnetic Punch Windows,(115953), Modern Label Punch (116630), Full Heart Punch (113693), Small Heart Punch (117193, Occasions Mini), Large Oval Punch (107305)
The Perfect Touch:  Heart Treat Cup (120435), Real Red 5/8" Satin Ribbon (117286, Occasions Mini)

PPA29: Circle Savvy

Having a well-balanced layout is key to pretty cards.  Margaret Moody, one of my  Stampin' Pretty Pals, has produced another beautiful and balanced sketch for this week's Pals Paper Arts Sketch Challenge (PPA29).  Did I mention the the PPA Design Team is offering blog candy for this week's participants?  CLICK HERE for challenge details, inspiration samples by the PPA design team and play along! 

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIP:

It's no secret that I draw a lot of free inspiration from fashion and home décor catalogs.  The pillow and colors on the Crate &  Barrel cover below were translated into today's circle savvy project.  Grab your circle punches and try out this tantalizing texture!

FILL YOUR STAMPIN' UP! WISH LIST & SAVE $$$.  Join Stampin' Up! and my Stampin' Pretty Pals and during Sale-A-Bration and save instantly.  Click to Learn More!

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

Stamp Set:  Well Scripted (Occasions Mini Catalog: 117072 Wood-Mount, 118601 Clear-Mount)
Paper:  Whisper White (100730), Dusty Durango (115321), Dusty Durango Textured (115538, Assorted In  Colors), Soft Suede (115318)
Ink:  Soft Suede (115657)
Cool Tools:  Circle Punches (1" (109046), 3/4" (107217), 1/2" (104390),  1/4" Circle Punch (retired but a hole punch works, too), Scallop Border Punch (112091)
The Perfect Touch:  Soft Suede Polka Dot 1/2" Grosgrain Ribbon (115612), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Kween Bee Challenge & PPA Sneak Peek

The card I designed today says "spring!"  Kris Kilcoyne has a seriously chic color (purple and yellow) and sketch challenge happening on her Kween Bee Kreations blog.  I simply had to give it a try.  Kris is one of my Stampin' Pretty Pals and a master of the minimalist look in paper crafting.  Stop by her blog and give this challenge a go! 

Isn't the Floral Fusion Sizzlits Die adorable?  On today's card, it reminds me of a retro pansy in So Saffron, Lovely Lilac and Elegant Eggplant.  The Floral Fusion die is a budget-friendly ($5.50) Stampin' Up! exclusive Sizzlits die that works with the Big Shot Die-Cut Machine.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• As many of you know, I'm a huge fan of Stampin' Up!'s new clear-mount stamps.  I added the "kind" sentiment in the exact spot I wanted it.  Look Ma, no Stamp-A-Ma-Jig!
• Remember my Three Second Rule.  For the best grip, press the clear-mount stamp (cling side) to the clear block and hold firm for three seconds.  Ditto on the DVD storage case.
• Learn more about how to use Stampin' Up!'s Clear-Mount stamps by watching my Clear-Mount Video Tutorial.
• Line up brads with precision.  A Piercing Mat and Paper-Piercing Tool guarantee success.

GET IT FREE!  Sale-A-Bration's Whimsical Words (images above) is a charming, multi-occasion stamp set.  It is offered in both clear-mount (119119) and wood-mount (118386) versions.  It's yours FREE with a $50 Stampin' Up! order (or choose from over 80 Sale-A-Bration free gifts--one for EVERY $50 in product purchased).  Click here to view all FREE GIFTS in the Sale-A-Bration Catalog.

PPA SNEAK PEEK:  Are you ready to play along with tomorrow's Pals Paper Arts latest challenge?  Here's a sneak peek of my design.  It's all about circle punches and textures, baby!

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

Stamp Set:  Whimsical Words (Sale-A-Bration: 118386 Wood-Mount, 119119 Clear-Mount)
Paper:  Elegant Eggplant (105126), Lovely Lilac (100427), So Saffron (105118), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Elegant Eggplant (105210)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine (113439), Stampin' Up! Floral Fusion Sizzlits Die (115969), Eyelet Border Punch (113692), Paper-Piercing Tool (116631), Paper Piercing Template (105826, Mat Pack)
The Perfect Touch:  So Saffron Buttons (107422, Fresh Favorites II Buttons),  So Saffron Brads (106953, Rich Regals Brads)

Pals Sale-A-Bration Blog Hop

Welcome to the February PALS SALE-A-BRATION HOP!  If you've arrived from Carla Bazhenow's blog (www.carlas-scraps.com), I'm stop #6 on the hop!  Hop along with me and my Stampin' Pretty Pals as we direct you through the entire hop of wonderful papercrafted creations, all showcasing Sale-A-Bration free products! 

My hop card (photo above) tips and details are below!  Today's project is loaded with Sale-A-Bration freebies!

PALS HOP LINE-UP

Click on any of the sites listed below to begin the Pals Sale-A-Bration Hop.  We're thrilled to have you visit and excited to hear what you think of our hop.  Feel free to leave as many comments as you'd like along the way!

1.   Kalshelia Lloyd -- www.stampinfabulousity.com     Stampin' Fabulousity

2.   Ann Schach -- www.stampinchic.com     The Stampin' Schach

3.   Margaret Moody -- www.margaretmoody.typepad.com     Margaret Moody

4.   Debbie Pierce -- www.stampinsunshine.com     Stampin' Sunshine

5.   Carla Bazhenow -- www.carlas-scraps.com     Carla's Scraps

6.   Mary Fish -- www.stampinpretty.com     Stampin' Pretty

7.   Kim Lampone -- www.kjskorner.blogspot.com     Stamp, scrap, get kreative

8.   Gina Shaw -- www.cardsbyginashaw.com     Cards by Gina

9.   Regina Mangum -- www.thestampinbean.blogspot.com     The Stampin' Bean

10. Lourdes Torres -- www.cozycraftycorner.blogspot.com     Cozy Crafty Corner

11. Kris Kilcoyne -- www.kweenbee.typepad.com     Kween Bee Kreations

12. Liz Hughes -- www.diypapercreations.com     DIY Paper Creations

13. Melanie Collins -- www.oopsadaisy.typepad.com     Oops a Daisy

14. Mike Funke -- www.stampin-style.com     Stampin-Style

15. Anne Beale Yancey -- www.mukibug.com     Mukibug

16. Martha Stewart -- www.SeasonsOfStamping.com    Seasons of Stamping

17. Jason Casper -- www.stampindad.blogspot.com     Jason's Stampin' Pad

18. Barbara Furlong -- www.theloveofstamping.com     The Love of Stamping

19. Tricia Gillam -- www.soulstamper.com     Soul Stamper

The Pals Hop continues with the next stop at  Kim Lampone's blog--www.kjskorner.blogspot.com.  Hop over to stop #7 and see what exciting creations Kim has in store for you!

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Check out Stampin' Up!'s very own Bonnie Thurber's fabulous VIDEO on using the new Stampin' Up! Border and Corner Punches.  
• REMEMBER the Three Second Rule!  To get the best cling between your Stampin' Up! clear-mount stamps and clear blocks, place the clingy side of the stamp on the block for three seconds (1001, 1002, 1003).  They need a few seconds to bond.  This quick step will give you plenty of cling to stamp and clean them with a Stampin' Scrub (102642) while still on the blocks.

LOVING THE SCALLOP TRIM BORDER?  Spend $50 during Stampin' Up! Sale-A-Bration and choose the Scallop Trim Border Punch FREE.   Click here for Sale-A-Bration details and catalog information.

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

Stamp Set: Happy Moments (Sale-A-Bration, 118664 Wood-Mount, 119125 Clear-Mount)
Paper:  Welcome Neighbor Designer Series Paper Pad (Sale-A-Bration, 118401), Melon Mambo Textured Card Stock, Old Olive, Whisper White
Ink:  Melon Mambo
Cool Tools:  Scallop Trim Border Punch (Sale-A-Bration, 118402), Scallop Trim Corner Punch (118870, Occasions Mini Catalog), Horizontal Slot Punch (105089)
The Perfect Touch:  Vintage Brads (109109), Crushed Curry Polka Dot 1/2" Grosgrain Ribbon (115614), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Whisper White Medium Envelope (107301)