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

Round or Square? Mojo Monday 141

Tomorrow (June 1) is a much anticipated Stampin' Up! day.  I'll be posting the retiring stamp and accessories lists on my Stampin' Pretty blog as soon as they are available.  Be ready to order your favorites.  Retiring products run out quickly.  I'll post regular updates throughout June to share what's still available and what's sold out.

 

Round or Square?  Julee Tilman's Mojo Monday sketch (MOJO141) let's you choose (or do both)! 

Take a sneak peek at Daffodil Delight.  Woo hoo!  This luscious yellow and will be part of the Stampin' Up! Core Color Collection (see Stampin' Up! Color Renovation) beginning July 1 with the launch of the 2010-2011 Idea Book and Catalog. 

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIP:  Making this scalloped circle card starts with a Big Shot Die-Cut Machine and a Scallop Circle Bigz Die.  Click for my Scallop Note Card Tutorial.

ROUND SCALLOP NOTE CARD (approx. 4 1/2" in diameter):
Stamp Set:  Oval All (113790)
Paper:  Daffodil Delight (available July 1), Chocolate Chip (102128), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Scallop Circle Bigz Die (113468), Perfect Polka Dots Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (117335), Boho Blossoms Punch (110711), 1/2" Circle Punch (104390), Large Oval Punch (107305), Scallop Oval Punch (114889), Circle Scissor Plus (112530), Glass Mat (112531)

The Perfect Touch:  Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

SQUARE CARD (4 1/2" x 4 1/2"):
Stamp Set:  Oval All (113790)
Paper:  Daffodil Delight (available July 1), Chocolate Chip (102128), Chocolate Chip Designer Series Paper (112164), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Finial Press Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (115963), 5-Petal Flower Punch (109041), Large Oval Punch (107305), Scallop Oval Punch (114889)
The Perfect Touch:  Whisper White 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109025), Summer Sun Corduroy Buttons (114343), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

RESERVE YOUR COPY OF THE STAMPIN' UP! 2010-2011 IDEA BOOK & CATALOG. Expected delivery by July 1.  Click here for details.

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

Stampin' Up! Scrapbooking Video Tutorial

Offer ends May 31!!!  The Stampin' Up! National Scrapbooking Month Promotion ends tomorrow.  With the purchase of select stamp sets (all designed for scrapbooking projects) or My Digital Studio software, you earn free designer brads.  Click for full details.

Need a little scrapbooking inspiration using the promotion products?  Check out this scrapbooking video by Stampin' Up! guru Carrie Cudney.

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

Simple Saturday Step Up

I treasure a simple card . . . the kind you can mass produce to have plenty on hand but still feel like you are sending something special and artistic. Today's Simple Saturday Card required minimal supplies and time.  Swap the sentiment to make it work for any occasion. 

When you have a few extra minutes, you have the option to step up your project, like the version above.  Silver Brads and embossing the Bermuda Bay card stock (Stampin' Up! Square Lattice Textured Embossing Folder, Summer Mini Catalog) really punch up the volume.

BYE BYE BERMUDA BAY!  Starting July 1, we'll be saying good by to current In Colors Bermuda Bay,  Dusty Durango and Crushed Curry plus 20 retiring Stampin' Up! colors.  The good news is that 5 new Core Colors, 5 new In Colors and many past In Color favorites will be returning. 

Click to learn more about the Stampin' Up! Color Renovation!

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

Stamp Set:  Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370)
Paper:  Bermuda Bay (115317), So Saffron (105118), Very Vanilla (101650), Basic Grey Textured Card Stock (Assorted Neutrals, 108693)
Ink:  Basic Gray (109120)
Cool Tools:  Corner Rounder Punch (109047), Small Oval Punch (107304), Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Little Leaves Sizzlits Die (114511), Square Lattice Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (Summer Mini Catalog, 119976)
The Perfect Touch:  Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Bermuda Bay 1/2" Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (115610), Silver Brads (104336)

Embrace the Trio

Do I dare play favorites?  I adore the charming polka dot and floral patterns in the Island Oasis Designer Paper Series collection (Summer Mini Catalog).  However, my absolute favorite from Island Oasis DP is the pattern I used for today's card--yep, both sides rock.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• This card layout is a fabulous way to give your scraps another chance at strutting their stuff.  Each is 1" wide x 2" (however, the length gets tucked below the horizontal panel so don't sweat precision).
• A trio of Punched Posies (Stampin' Up! Hostess level 2) are cropped with a Scallop Circle Punch.  A series of three coordinating objects pull a card together in a flash.
• It's the little things.  A rounded corner at the bottom right keeps the card simple but adds a luxurious touch.
• Dress up a card interior with coordinating designer series paper.

CLICK!!  FREE STAMPIN' UP! DESIGNER BRADS OFFER ENDS MAY 31. 

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

Stamp Sets:  Punched Posies (Summer Mini Catalog Hostess Level 2, Wood Mount 118535, Clear Mount 120030), Embrace Life (114958)
Paper:  Island Oasis Designer Series Paper (Summer Mini Catalog, 117173), Old Olive (100702), Whisper White (100730), So Saffron (105118), Tempting Turquoise Textured Card Stock (Assorted Bold Brights, 108698)
Ink:  Old Olive (102277)
Cool Tools:  Scallop Circle Punch (109043), Corner Rounder Punch (109047)
The Perfect Touch:  Fresh Favorites I Buttons (107421), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Pals Paper Arts Sketch Challenge

Are you ready to play this week's Pals Paper Arts Sketch Challenge  (PPA44)?   Grab your paper crafting supplies and try your hand at Margaret Moody's  latest sketch.  Feel free to use any brand of stamping supplies you wish. 

Check out the PPA Design Team's Samples.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Presto Change-O!  I swiped a sponge dipped in Always Artichoke ink over Presto Patterns Specialty Designer Series Paper (Summer Mini Catalog).  The pretty script "magically" peeks through.  Much quicker and easier than heat embossing with gorgeous results.
• Have you discovered the Stampin' Up! Pawsitively Prints Designer Series Paper (Summer Mini Catalog)?  It's loaded with small prints that make perfect backgrounds (like this sweet yellow gingham).
• Diggin' the butterfly?  The Punched Posies hostess level 2 stamp set from the Summer Mini Catalog "spoke to me" the minute I first laid eyes on it.  I adore stamps that coordinate with my collection of punches.  It's free with a $300 customer or workshop product order.  Click for Stampin' Up! Hostess Rewards details.

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

Stamp Set:  Punched Posies (Summer Mini Catalog Hostess Leve 2, Wood Mount 118535, Clear Mount 120030)
Paper:  Presto Patterns Specialty Designer Series Paper (117175), Pawsitively Prints Designer Series Paper (118060), Rose Red, So Saffron, Always Artichoke, Whisper White
Ink:  Always Artichoke, VersaMark
Cool Tools:  Stampin' Up! Sponge, Pinking Hearts Border Punch (117649), Butterfly Punch (116629)
The Perfect Touch:  Fresh Favorites II Buttons (107422), Whisper White Organza Ribbon (114319)

Whisper White Medium Square Envelope (107289)

PPA44 Sneak Peek and Promotion Round-Up

Here's a sneak peek of my Pals Paper Arts Challenge for tomorrow.  PPA challenges are one of the best ways to notch up your paper crafting skills.  The PPA Design Team showcases Stampin' Up! products in their inspiration cards.  However, everyone is encouraged to participate and use any brand of products they wish.  Check out today's announcement of the the PPA Picks of the Week.

STAMPIN' UP! PROMOTION ROUND-UP (Click links for full details):

National Scrapbooking Month Promotion.  Get free designer brads when you order select Stampin' Up! stamps sets or My Digital Studio.  Ends May 31.

On-Line Clearance Rack:  Save up to 60% on close-out items. LOTS OF NEW ITEMS!

Fill Your Stampin' Up! Wish List and Save $$$.  Enjoy Stampin' Up! discounts and benefits every day!

Need to restock your Shimmer Paints (Holiday Mini Catalog) or missed out on the Extra Large Two-Step Bird Punch (Occasions Mini Catalog)?  Click here to see which Holiday and Occasions Mini items are still available for purchase.

Just Released!!! More MDS Updates.  My Digital Studio keeps getting better.  Check out the latest download additions to the MDS line-up.  Don't miss the new Summer Splendor Designer Paper (download).

Sweet Treat Cups and Sweetheart Stamp Set.  Not in any Stampin' Up! catalog but available for purchase.

DON'T FORGET . . . On June 1, I'll have the Stampin' Up! Retiring Stamps and Accessories posted on my Stampin' Pretty Blog!

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

Celebrate New Core Colors

Make a splash with the new Stampin' Up! Core Colors (available July 1)!  This colorful card highlights the new additions to the Stampin' Up! Core Color Collection.  Meet (from left to right):  Cajun Craze, Early Espresso, Daffodil Delight, Cherry Cobbler and Marina Mist. 

Click for full details on the Stampin' Up! Color Renovation.

This card was inspired by the paper crafting talent of my fellow Stampin' Up! demonstrator, LeeAnn Greff.  Here's her original card and tip on how to use a circle punch to round the ends of the strips of paper. It was love at first sight :)

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Clean, bold and fun.  This card is headed for Handsome Henry, my soon to be 4 year old grandnephew.  It works well for grown-up "boys," too!
• My card is a standard A2 (4 1/4" x 5 1/2").  The color strips are 1" wide. 
• I first rounded the ends (per LeeAnn's instructions) and next cropped, so they were the same length.
• A 1 1/4" Circle Punch was used to round the Core Color ends.  A 1" Circle Punch was used to round the end of the "celebrate" sentiment.
• How do these new Core Colors compare to existing Stampin' Up! colors?  Click for my Core Color Comparison.

SAVE THE DATE!  June 1 marks the release of the Stampin' Up! Retiring Accessories and Retiring Stamps lists.  I'll have the "hot off the press" details and inventory updates on my Stampin' Pretty blog!

STAY TUNED!  Throughout June, I'll be teasing you with sneak peeks of new stamps, accessories and the new In Colors for the Stampin' Up! 2010-2011 Idea Book and Catalog.  Customer sales period begins July 1.

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

Stamp Set:  Celebrate, Itty Bitty Bits (Summer Mini Catalog:  Wood Mount 117056, Clear Mount 120060)
Paper:  Cajun Craze, Early Espresso, Daffodil Delight, Cherry Cobbler, Marina Mist, Very Vanilla (101650)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908)
Cool Tools:  1 1/4" Circle Punch (104403), 1" Circle Punch (109046), Itty Bitty Shapes Circle Punch (Summer Mini Catalog:  Punch Pack, 118309), Large Star Punch (110710), Star Punch (109045), Small Oval Punch (107304)
The Perfect Touch:  Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Mojo Monday 140

Here's the "scoop!"  Today's Mojo Monday sketch by Julee Tilman (MOJO140) can easily go from elegant to a bit wild and crazy, like this Sweet Scoops card for my grandniece, Melina.  I was clearly in the mood to play with punches and polka dots!

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• My Sweet Scoops sentiment inked in Whisper White Craft Ink left a beautiful, soft impression on Melon Mambo card stock.  Love it!
• The texture on the ice cream scoop (Sweet Scoops, Summer Mini Catalog) started with a "kiss."  Click here to learn how simple the Kissing Technique is (and view another Sweet Scoops sample).
• I used a retired Stampin' Up! 1/4" hole punch for all the tiny circles except the flower center (top right of the ice cream cone).  That's when I discovered I could have used the new Circle Punch from the Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (an adorable punch trio in the Summer Mini Catalog) for the whole thing.  Can you say "senior moment?"  It's a hint larger than 1/4" but would have been "just right," Goldilocks.
• The seriously cool matching clear Bitty Button gets dressed up with a sliver of Tempting Turquoise card stock as coordinating "thread." 
• The envelope flap comes to life with a Tempting Turquoise Polka Dot Pattern from Island Oasis Designer Series Paper (Summer Mini Catalog).  The Scallop Edge Punch gives it a flirty finish.
• Click (and then scroll) for more Summer Mini Catalog Product Samples?  Need a FREE Summer Mini Catalog?  EMAIL ME. U.S. Only.

STAMPIN' UP! RETIRING COLORS UPDATE:  If you have favorites in the Stampin' Up! Retiring Colors List, please order them NOW.  Many inks and card stock are on back order and some card stock colors have already sold out for good. 

Note: As of this post, card stock in Only Orange 8.5 x 11 and Sage Shadow 8.5 x 11 and 12 x 12 are permanently depleted.  I anticipate this list will grow rapidly due to a much higher than expected demand.

Click for the complete list of Retiring Stamping Up! Colors as part of the Stampin' Up! Color Renovation.

STAY TUNED:  Tomorrow I'll share another sneak peek sample using the new  Stampin' Up! Core Colors (Cherry Cobbler, Marina Mist, Cajun Craze, Early Espresso and Daffodil Delight (available July 1).

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

Stamp Set:  Sweet Scoops (Summer Mini Catalog, Wood-Mount 117078, Clear-Mount 120078)
Paper:  Island Oasis Designer Series Paper (Summer Mini Catalog, 117173), Melon Mambo (115320), Rose Red (102544), Tempting Turquoise Textured (Bold Brights Assorted, 108698), Pumpkin Pie Textured (Earth Elements Textured, 108697), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Melon Mambo (115656), Pumpkin Pie (105216), Whisper White Craft Ink (101731)
Cool Tools:  Scallop Edge Punch (112091), Large Oval Punch (107305), Curly Label Punch (112208), 1/2" Circle Punch (104390), Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (Summer Mini Catalog, 118309), 1/4" Hole Punch (retired)
The Perfect Touch:  Clear Bitty Button (Summer Mini Catalog, 118761), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Whisper White Medium Envelope (107301):  Scallop Edge Punch (112091), Island Oasis Designer Series Paper

Ravishing RAK's

Random Acts of Kindness = RAK.  I cherish receiving a handcrafted gift or card.  I wanted to show off some ravishing creations I received from my fellow Southwest Stampers demonstrator group.  They attended an event at my home with Shelli Gardner (Stampin' Up! CEO and Co-Founder) that preceded my  Workshop of a Lifetime.  Isn't the little basket by Karen Reid (above) adorable . . . yes, those ovals represent the Prickly Pear Cactus currently blooming in Tucson.  Prickly Pear Jam was tucked inside--clever girl!  Shelli got one, too!

STAY TUNED FOR TOMORROW'S MOJO MONDAY SKETCH!

 

Sue Brown produced this sweet mini "thank you."

Kendra Richardson opts for highlighted daisies.  So pretty.

Elegance is exemplified with this card by Barbara Phillips.

Karen Reid also created this colorful card in spring colors.

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

Simple Saturday Mini Card

Weekends tend to be very busy for my family.  I decided to devote today (and likely more Saturdays in the future) to a very simple and quick project--something that uses minimal supplies and can be accomplished in a hurry, between grocery shopping, swim meets, laundry, running to the bank, yard work--are we on the same page?

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• I get tremendous mileage out of my single color Patterns Designer Series Paper.  The mix and match patterns of Dusty Durango Designer Paper pull these 3 x 3 mini cards together in a snap.

• The Extra Large Fancy Flower Punch cropped out an instant bloom.  Woo hoo!  The punch is still available for purchase as part of the Occasions Mini Carryover List.

• Trendy Trees stamp set makes a subtle appearance via the sentiment and the swirl stamp (on the envelope and in the flower center).

• Add a touch of 3-D.  Stampin' Dimensionals (I rarely make a card without them) pop up the sentiment and flower center. 

FREE BRADS with select Stampin' Up! products.  Click for the Stampin' Up! National Scrapbooking Promotion.  Ends May 30.

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), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Dusty Durango (115654)
Cool Tools:  Extra Large Fancy Flower Punch (118073), Modern Label Punch (116630), 1" Circle Punch (109046)
The Perfect Touch:  Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Whisper White Mini Square Envelopes (107309)

Star Struck

Stars have been my "go to" shape lately.  They offer the clean geometry I adore for masculine cards.  I originally created this card for Splitcoastampers.com, when I was on the Dirty Dozen Design Team.  Click and scroll to view more of my Masculine Cards.  

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• The Movers & Shapes XL Die, Magnetic Star and my Big Shot Die-Cut Machine together cut a perfect A2 card (4 1/4" by 5 1/2") with the star cropped and the score line set--all in one "ride."  Click here for my Movers & Shapers  Video Tutorial.
• The star "window" cut by the Movers & Shapes Magnetic Star Die is slightly larger than the Stampin' Up! Star Punch.  This leaves a cool outline around the punched star from the outside and a clever preview of what's inside.
• Autumn Traditions Designer Series Paper isn't just for fall projects.  This clean stripe is delightful for a "no frills" birthday card.

Have you heard about the Color Renovation?  The Stampin' Up! families of beautiful colors will be better than ever!  Click here for the Stampin' Up! Color Renovation details.

STAY TUNED FOR TOMORROW'S SIMPLE SATURDAY MINI CARD!

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

Stamp Set:  Teeny Tiny Wishes (115370)
Paper:  Autumn Traditions Designer Series Paper (115668), Soft Suede Textured (In Colors Assorted, 115538), Elegant Eggplant Textured (Assorted Rich Regals, 108696), Ruby Red (Assorted Earth Elements, 108697), More Mustard (Assorted Earth Elements, 108697), Always Artichoke (Assorted Rich Regals, 108696)
Ink:  Elegant Eggplant (105210)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Movers & Shapers Curly Label Bigz XL Die (114506), Magnetic Movers & Shapers (115953), Large Star Punch (110710), Star Punch (109045), 1 1/4" Circle Punch (104403), Modern Label Punch (116630)
The Perfect Touch:  Elegant Eggplant 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109039), Circle Rhinestone Brads (Ice, 109110)

PPA 43 Memorial Day Tribute

Are you ready to play this week's Pals Paper Arts Memorial Day Inspired Challenge  (PPA43)?   Grab your red, white and blue (or experiment, too) and join in the challenge using any brand of stamping supplies you wish. 

Check out the PPA Design Team's Memorial Day Inspired Samples.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• This sweet and sturdy Gable Box doesn't require a die-cutting machine.  Check out Beate's Video Tutorial to learn how easy it is to make and assemble. 
• The box begins with a 8.5" x 11" sheet of card stock (I used Night of Navy).  Finished it measures approx. 3" x 2 1/4" x 6 1/4". 
• The July Fourth stamp set I used (Summer Mini Catalog), was spot-on for Memorial Day and would be delightful for a spirited birthday card, too!
• The Silver Jumbo Brad adds the perfect polish.  The "legs" are wrapped around the top layer of the knot.
• The layered stripes on the 3 x 3 mini card were inspired by a sample on p. 67 of the Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog.  Get out your scraps!

TO ORDER STAMPIN' UP! PRODUCTS ON-LINE 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Stamp Sets:  July Fourth (Summer Mini Catalog: Wood-Mount 118523, Clear-Mount 120063), In a Word (Summer Mini Catalog:  Wood-Mount 117143, Clear-Mount 120057), Hero Jumbo Wheel (116229)
Paper:  Real Red (102482), Night of Navy (100867), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Real Red (103133), Night of Navy (102977)
Cool Tools:  Circle Scissor Plus (112530), Glass Cutting Mat (112531), Large Star Punch (110710), Star Punch (109045), Large Oval Punch (107305), Corner Rounder Punch (109047), Scor-Pal (non-SU)
The Perfect Touch:  Real Red 5/8" Satin Ribbon (Summer Mini Catalog, 117286), Silver Jumbo Brad (5/8" Neutrals, 112533), Whisper White 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109025), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

PPA Sneak Peek and SU Promotion Round-Up!

Here's a sneak peek of my Pals Paper Arts Challenge for tomorrow.  PPA challenges are one of the best ways to notch up your paper crafting skills.  The PPA Design Team showcases Stampin' Up! products in their inspiration cards.  However, everyone is encouraged to participate and use any brand of products they wish.  Check out today's announcement of the the PPA Picks of the Week.

STAMPIN' UP! PROMOTION ROUND-UP (Click links for full details):

National Scrapbooking Month Promotion.  Get free designer brads when you order select Stampin' Up! stamps sets or My Digital Studio.  Ends May 30.

On-Line Clearance Rack:  Save up to 60% on close-out items. LOTS OF NEW ITEMS!

Fill Your Wish List and Save $$$.  Enjoy Stampin' Up! discounts, see the new In Colors and order new products a month before the customer sales period!

Need to restock your Shimmer Paints (Holiday Mini Catalog) or missed out on the Extra Large Two-Step Bird Punch (Occasions Mini Catalog)?  Click here to see which Holiday and Occasions Mini items are still available for purchase.

MORE MDS Updates.  My Digital Studio keeps getting better.  Check out the latest download additions to the MDS line-up.  Don't miss the new Summer Splendor Designer Paper (download).

Sweet Treat Cups and Sweetheart Stamp Set.  Not in any Stampin' Up! catalog but available for purchase.

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

Wonderful Watercolor Trio

Grab your markers and make watercolor magic!  The Watercolor Trio stamp set from the Stampin' Up! Summer Mini Catalog has three versatile sentiments and lovely blooms that give an instant watercolor effect.  I love a stamp set that goes the distance.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• OO LA LA . . . I love taking color and design inspiration from home décor catalogs (the ones you get for free in the mail).  Don't toss them . . . they are loaded with ideas.
• Using Sage Shadow and Not Quite Navy Stampin' Write Markers, I colored the rubber on the stamp directly.  Huff a couple times to moisten the inked stamp before stamping on card stock.
• The Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die from the Stampin' Up! Occasions Mini is still available as part of the Stampin' Up! Carryover List.  Click here for details.
• UPDATE:  The Stampin' UP! inventory of Sage Shadow 12" x 12" card stock (107079) has been depleted and they are unable to order more.  Sage Shadow in 8.5 x 11"  (101563) is available as of this update.  However, retiring color card stock inventories are running low.

INDULGE IN THE ART OF STAMPING and join my Stampin' Pretty Pals!  Discover the details and the discounts.

TO ORDER STAMPIN' UP! PRODUCTS ON-LINE 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Stamp Set:  Watercolor Trio (Summer Mini Catalog:  WM 117050, CM 120084), Favorite Thoughts (Summer Mini Catalog:  WM 116968, CM 120048)
Paper:  Sage Shadow (101563), Barely Banana (102701), Soft Suede (115318), Very Vanilla (101650), Not Quite Navy (101722)
Ink:  Soft Suede (115657), Stampin' Write Markers:  Soft Suede (116329, In Colors Set of 6), Sage Shadow (100040), Not Quite Navy (100059)
Cool Tools:  Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die (118138), Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Square Lattice Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (Summer Mini Catalog, 119976), Corner Rounder Punch (109047)

Note:  Sage Shadow and Bare Banana are retiring soon.  Click to learn more about the Stampin' Up! Color Renovation.

Shelli's Sweater

Where do YOU get your inspiration?  I often discuss on my blog how home décor and fashion catalogs will get my creative juices flowing (stay tuned for tomorrow's post for another example). 

When Shelli Gardner (Stampin' Up! CEO and Co-Founder) visited me in Tucson for my Workshop of a Lifetime (full details here), she was wearing an adorable black and pink sweater.  Can you see the "translation" into the card (for Shelli) I created for today's Mojo Monday sketch (MOJO 139)?

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• I see so many beautiful 3-D paper blossoms but honed in on the simplicity of Nina Dee's flower (she's one of my Stampin' Pretty Pals--woo hoo).  I punched circles, crumpled, assembled and voilà! 
• The sentiment from Favorite Thoughts (new in the Summer Mini Catalog) is one of my favorites.
• An Itty Bitty accent adds the perfect touch.  The little hearts and coffee cup are from the Summer Mini's Itty Bitty Bits stamp set . . . cropped with the coordinating circle punch from the Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (pack of 3 shapes).
• The ribbon on the box was applied using Sticky Tape--directly to the ribbon then folding and adhering. The ends are wrapped to the inside of the top of the matchbox so that it will open and close without removing the ribbon.
• 1" wide Melon Mambo designer paper gives a custom look to the Hershey's Nuggets.  Four tuck neatly inside the box.

FREE STAMPIN' UP! DESIGNER BRADS with the purchase of select merchandise.  Click for the May National Scrapbooking Month Promotion!

TO ORDER STAMPIN' UP! PRODUCTS ON-LINE 24/7, CLICK HERE!

CARD:

Stamp Set:  Bella Toile Background Stamp (111598), Favorite Thoughts (Summer Mini Catalog: Wood-Mount 116968, Clear-Mount 120048), Itty Bitty Bits (Summer Mini Catalog:  Wood-Mount 117056, Clear-Mount 120060)
Paper:  Melon Mambo (1153320), Whisper White (100730), Basic Black (102851)
Ink:  Jet Black Stazon (101406)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine )113439), Stampin' Up! Top Note Bigz Die (113463), Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (Summer Mini Catalog, 118309), Circle Punches, 1 3/8" (104401), 1" (109046), 3/4" (107217)

MATCHBOX:

Paper:  Melon Mambo Designer Series (115687), Basic Black (102851)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Stampin' Up! Matchbox Bigz XL Die (114890)
The Perfect Touch:  Basic Black 5/8: Satin Ribbon (Summer Mini Catalog, 117285), Sticky Tape (104294)

Kindness and Art

You wouldn't likely be reading my blog if you didn't believe in the special way it feels to give or receive a handcrafted card.   Combining kindness and art says more than an email ever will.  True? 

The card above was given to me by my niece, Kris Kilcoyne, of Kween Bee Kreations.  I ADORE how the butterfly works with the sentiment.

Here are some more wonderful cards I received from my Stampin' Pretty Pals that made me feel extra special.  Enjoy!

 

Linda Callahan

Stephanie Daughtrey

Regina Mangum

 

Ginger Toivonen

JOIN STAMPIN' UP! & THE STAMPIN' PRETTY PALS!   With a new Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog, new In Colors and a Color Renovation on the horizon (July 1), perhaps it's time for you to fill your Stampin' Up! wish list at a discount?  Hobby stampers welcome!  Click here for details!

TO ORDER STAMPIN' UP! PRODUCTS ON-LINE 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Holiday and Occasions Mini Carryover Items

Do you love the Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die (a Stampin' Up! exclusive, 118138) used to the left (a sneak peek of Tuesday's post) as much as I do?  Good news . . . many of the Stampin' Up! Holiday and Occasions Mini items (including this Embosslits Die) are still available for purchase (images below).   

Click for the itemized list and product numbers for the Occasions Mini Catalog Carryover Products and Holiday Mini Catalog Carryover Products.

NEWS FLASH:  The Stampin' Up! Last Chance Stamp and Accessories List will be available on June 1.  Be sure to mark your calendar to order your retiring favorites . . . merchandise tends to run out quickly.  I'll keep you up to date on available (and sold out) inventory my Stampin' Pretty blog.

PLUS . . . check out the STAMPIN' UP ON-LINE CLEARANCE RACK!  It's always stocked with great deals on Stampin' Up! products.  Up to 60% off.

 

TO ORDER STAMPIN' UP! PRODUCTS ON-LINE 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Presto Patterns Specialty Paper

The look and feel of embossing without the effort . . . that's what Stampin' Up!'s new Presto Patterns Specialty Designer Series Paper (Summer Mini Catalog, p. 15) is all about.  The vintage patterns offer glossy designs and "presto," come to life with the addition of ink or the new Smooch Spritz product (Summer Mini Catalog, p. 15).

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Apply ink to the Presto paper with sponges, brayer, Aqua Painter and more.  I used a brayer and Soft Suede Ink to "reveal" the floral pattern.
• The Favorite Thoughts sentiment is clever and feminine--perfect for my 20-something niece's birthday.
• The "crowning" touches are from the Tiny Tags* stamp set . . . including both the crowns and the touch of floral on the sentiment (amazing how this one coordinates with the Presto paper). 
• Here's a link to my posts using Summer Mini Catalog products. 

*The Tiny Tags stamp set is a carryover (available) product from the expired Occasion Mini.  Click to open a list and images for Holiday and Occasions Mini Carryover Products.

Need a Summer Mini Catalog (and you don't already have an active relationship with another Stampin' Up! demonstrator)?  EMAIL ME for your free copy.  U.S. only, please.

TO ORDER STAMPIN' UP! PRODUCTS ON-LINE 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Stamp Set:  Favorite Thoughts (WM 116968, CM 120048, Summer Mini Catalog), Tiny Tags (WM 118091, CM 118592)
Paper:  Presto Patterns Specialty Designer Series Paper (117175, Summer Mini Catalog), Whisper White (100730), Soft Suede Designer Series Paper (115688), Cameo Coral (100475)
Ink:  Soft Suede (115657)
Cool Tools:  Brayer (102395), 3/4" Circle Punch (107217), Paper Snips (103579)
The Perfect Touch:  Half Back Pearl (109114, Pretties Kit), Mini Glue Dots (103683), Whisper White Organza Ribbon (114319)

Whisper White Medium Envelope (107301)

Wood Works

Did you know that the Big Shot Die-Cut Machine cuts fabric, thin metal and even thin sheets of wood?  Stampin' Up! offers wood sheets (5 3/4" x 13 3/4"), perfect for this purpose.  A quick ride with the Big Shot and the Stampin' Up! Lattice Bigz Die (a Stampin' Up! exclusive) produces the cool die-cut result above.

I created this card for Splitcoaststampers as part of my Dirty Dozen Design Team gig :)

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• My Modern Label Punch had no problem chomping through the wood sheets either.
• A sliver of Old Olive card stock turns to coordinated "thread" on the buttons.
• Mini Glue Dots keep the buttons firmly in place

STAMPIN' UP! MAY PROMOTION:  Receive free designer brads with the purchase of select stamp sets.  Click here for the National Scrapbooking Month Promotion.

TO ORDER STAMPIN' UP! PRODUCTS ON-LINE 24/7, CLICK HERE!

Stamp Set:  Trendy Trees (114695)
Paper:  Chocolate Chip Textured, Old Olive, Very Vanilla
Ink:  Chocolate Chip
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Lattice Bigz Die (115958), Corner Rounder Punch (109047), Modern Label Punch (116630)
The Perfect Touch:  Wood Sheets (116309), Earth Elements Brads (106955), Very Vanilla 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (109055), Latte Designer Buttons (114333), Mini Glue Dots, Stampin' Dimensionals

Pals Paper Arts Color Challenge

Are you ready to play this week's Pals Paper Arts Color Challenge  (PPA42)?   Combine the colors below and join in the fun using any brand of stamping supplies you wish.  Check out the PPA Design Team's Stampin' Up! inspired samples PLUS an opportunity to earn this week's PPA Blog Candy. 

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• The star of my "dynamic paper duo" is the Itty Bitty Bits stamp set, new in the Stampin' Up! Summer Mini Catalog. Need a FREE copy of the Summer Mini Catalog?  Email me (U.S. only, please).
• I used the Itty Bitty Bits butterfly to accent the flower centers on the card and it adds a hefty dose of jazz to the tag on the Scallop Bag.  All were cropped with the Itty Bitty Shapes Circle Punch.
• A touch of paper piercing finishes the look of the card.  Kraft card stock softens the color "voltage" of the Tempting Turquoise and Real Red.
• Did you know?  Kraft card stock will be renamed Crumb Cake with the Stampin' Up! Color Renovation.  For the first time (July 1), Kraft/Crumb Cake will be available as an ink pad, marker and more!
• Before assembling the Scallop Bag (created with a Big Shot and the Stampin' Up! Bag w/Scallops Bigz XL Die), I punched out the window with a Wide Oval Punch. 
• A window sheet attached with Mini Glue Dots creates a perfect peek-a-boo for the colorful M & M's.

CARD:

Stamp Sets:  Itty Bitty Bits (Summer Mini Catalog:  WM 117056, CM 120060), In A Word (Summer Mini Catalog:  WM 117143, CM 120057)
Paper:  Real Red (102482), Tempting Turquoise (102067), The Write Stuff Specialty Paper (115674), Kraft (107070)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die Cut Machine (113439), Daisies #2 Flower Bigz Die (114520), Scallop Trim Border Punch (available July 1), 1/2" Circle Punch (104390), 3/4" Circle Punch (107217), Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (Summer Mini Catalog, 118309), Paper Piercing Tool (116631), Mat Pack (105826, Piercing Template), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

SCALLOP BAG:
Stamp Set:  Itty Bitty Bits (Summer Mini Catalog:  WM 117056, CM 120060)
Paper:  Tempting Turquoise (102067), The Write Stuff Specialty Paper (115674), Kraft (107070)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die Cut Machine (113439), Bigz Bag w/Scallops XL Die (114519), Crop-A-Dile (108362), Wide Oval Punch (112082), Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (Summer Mini Catalog, 118309), Small Tag Punch (108264)
The Perfect Touch:  Linen Thread (104199), Real Red 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109034), Metallic Eyelets (105319), Window Sheets Medium (114323), Mini Glue Dots (103683), Sticky Strip (104394)

IMPORTANT NOTE:  Stampin' Up! is experiencing a higher demand than expected on the retiring colors and retiring color supplies.  Items may go on back order or be permanently out of stock sooner than expected.  If you have any favorites, I suggest you place your on-line order as soon as possible.

Click here for a list of retiring Stampin' Up! colors.

TO ORDER STAMPIN' UP! PRODUCTS ON-LINE 24/7, CLICK HERE!