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

Pals Paper Arts (PPA57) Sketch

The Pals Paper Arts Design Team believes that a good sketch, like a pattern for fashion, is the foundation of balance and style.  This week's PPA challenge offers a lovely sketch by Design Team member Margaret Moody.  Check out the PPA Design Team samples and challenge your paper crafting skills using this sketch.

 

IMPORTANT UPDATE:  There's no requirement to upload more than one card for the challenge!  Go as clean and simple or as jazzed up as you want!

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• This design is all about "the snips."  My Stampin' Up! Paper Snips navigated cleanly around the lines of the flowers from Growing Green.  To maintain better control, move the card stock while cutting, not the scissors.
• A couple flowers popped up on Stampin' Dimensionals give a 3-D garden effect.
• NEW PRODUCT ALERT!  You can finally order the Decorative Label Extra Large Punch on 9/1, with the launch of the Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog.  Try punching the sentiment off center and adding a row of brads or punches for a new look.
• The fabric from this gorgeous bedding (Garnet Hill) caught my attention and inspired me to use a colorful palette.

COMING UP ON FRIDAY.  Are you ready for Stampin' Up! blog candy?

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

Stamp Set:  Growing Green (WM 118758, CM 120624), Elements of Style (WM 118611, CM 120045)
Paper:  Poppy Parade (119793), Pear Pizzazz (119795), Rose Red (102544), Basic Black (121045), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Basic Black (101179), Rose Red (101778), Pear Pizzazz (119784)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die Cut Machine (113439), Elegant Lines Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (119277), Decorative Label Extra Large Punch (120907, available 9/1), Paper Snips (103579)
The Perfect Touch:  Regals Brads (119737), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

click stamp images to enlarge

Itty Bitty Mojo Magic

Little Stampin' Up! punches can translate card stock into a great, big WOW!  The punched hearts, flowers and circles combine to produce their own patterns.  And, ooh la la . . . the Basic Jewels Pearls (hooray for these new stick-ons) are nothing short of exquisite.

Notice anything different about this week's Mojo Monday Sketch (MOJO153)?  I contributed the sketch design and am doing the happy dance in anticipation of seeing the direction you take it! 

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Squares popped out using the Stampin' Up! 1 1/4" Square Punch layer perfectly over the Scallop Square Punch.  I adhered them with Stampin' Dimensionals for a little 3-D action.
• Have you ever laid eyes on a more glorious "U?"  The Broadsheet Alphabet stamp set promises to give delightful character to every letter of the alphabet.  There's a coordinating accent set to make it even more versatile.  Broadsheet Accents sold separately.
• NEW PRODUCT ALERT!  Is it time for the Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog yet?  Well, it will be on Sept. 1 along with the opportunity to purchase the Candy Cane Big Designer Buttons collection.  Colors include Blushing Bride (used on my card), Garden Green, Baja Breeze and Real Red.

Like what you see?  Please leave me a comment below.  I enjoy reading your feedback!

STILL TIME TO PLAY AT THE PPA!   Does your inspiration need a nudge?  Check out our latest Pals Paper Arts challenge and release your inner artist!  Deadline  is Tuesday, August 24 at Noon CST. Click for details.

ORGANIZE YOUR STAMPING SPACE!  Stay tuned for my Tuesday Tutorial Video and tips to "tame" your card stock and more.

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

Stamp Sets:  Fabulous Phrases (WM 117002, CM 120501), Broadsheet Alphabet (WM 118724, CM 120585), Confetti (WM 116960, CM 120465)
Paper:  In Color Patterns Designer Series Paper Stack (117158), Rose Red (102544), Blushing Bride (119796), Very Vanilla (101650)
Ink:  Basic Black (101179), Rose Red (101778)
Cool Tools:  Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (118309), (Heart Punch Small (117193), Scallop Square Punch (119884), 1 1/4" Square Punch (119865)
The Perfect Touch:  Basic Jewels Pearls (119247), Mini Library Clips (109857), Candy Cane Big Designer Buttons (121718, available 9/1), Linen Thread (104199), Pear Pizzazz 1/2" Stitched Poly Ribbon (119265)

*CLICK STAMP IMAGE TO ENLARGE.

Have a Seat for Simple Saturday

There's supposed to be a pun in this sentiment.  Fun, yes?  For today's Simple Saturday card, I used a stamp set that I coveted from the first time I saw it--Have a Seat.  I especially like the way they chairs look lined up in a trio.  Here's another way (from a previous post) to use a single chair from Have a Seat.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIP:  With the clear-mount version of Have a Seat I was able to line them up, get the spacing right, dip in More Mustard ink and be done in a flash.

Here's the result of stamping the chairs all at once and no Stamp-a-ma-jig required :)

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIP:  Likewise, with the Sweet Shoppe Alphabet Lower (lower case), I was able to build the word "cherish" with my clear-mount version--all but the second "h."  The set includes one stamp of each letter in the alphabet.  I added the second "h" after stamping the first six letters in a row.  Still very easy to "tack on" the "h" with clear-mount.  The font is very modern and clean.

Both Have A Seat and Sweet Shoppe Alphabet are available in clear-mount and wood-mount so everyone can get their preference.

CURIOUS about Stampin' Up! clear-mount stamps?  Check out this video with my tips and instructions on how to use them.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIP:  I have said it before and I'll say it again.  The new Stampin' Up! Color Coach is a fantastic way to get the creative juices flowing.  It offers nice-sized swatches of every Stampin' Up! Color plus suggested color combinations on the back.  Not Quite Navy, Cajun Craze and More Mustard were ready to go for a Simple Saturday card.

DON'T BE A SECRET STAMPER!  I have to confess.  When I put love and effort into a card, I want the recipient to know I made it with my own little hands.  Stampin' Up! offers personalized name stamps to tastefully add your artistic "signature." Check them out on pages 144 and 145 of the Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog.

PALS PAPER ARTS DIVINE REDESIGN. Have you played the latest inspiration challenge?  There's still plenty of time.  Click here for details . . . we just made  it easier.

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

Stamp Sets:  Have a Seat (Wood Mount 116696, Clear Mount 120447), Sweet Shoppe Alphabet Lower (Wood Mount 120272, Clear Mount 120648)
Paper:  Regals Patterns Designer Series Paper Stack (117154), Not Quite Navy (101722), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  More Mustard (103162), Not Quite Navy (103008)
Cool Tools:  Paper Piercing Tool (116631) and Mat Pack (template to line up brads, 105826)
The Perfect Touch:  Regals Brads (119737), Regals Designer Buttons (119744), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

New Video: Scallop Circle Folded Flower

I created a couple joy fold cards for two workshops this past month.  Essentially, a joy fold card is a large and small card that intersect each other.  It's one of my favorite ways to "package" a handmade card with a special note tucked inside.  Here are my tips on how to create a joy fold card. 

It was love at first sight when I spotted these folded flowers in the Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog (p. 123).  I credit fellow Stampin' Up! demonstrator Melissa Stout with the first tutorial I could find with the "how to" details. After making many of these simple and beautiful flowers, I thought I would share a video of my own!

Here's the second joy fold version, for a workshop hostess who adores pastels.  Her guests were "wowed" by the flower:

WHY SHOP ON-LINE WITH STAMPIN' PRETTY?  Learn about the perks and how you can earn a FREE stamp set of your choice with my Stampin' Pretty Rewards Program!  CLICK HERE.

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

NEWSPRINT JOY FOLD CARD

Stamp Set: In a Word (Wood Mount 117143, Clear Mount 120057)
Paper:  Newsprint Designer Series Paper (117166), Real Red (102482), Very Vanilla (101650), Basic Black (121045)
Ink:  Jet Black Stazon (101406)
Cool Tools:  2 3/8" Scallop Circle Extra Large Punch (118874), 3/4" Circle Medium (119873)
The Perfect Touch:  Real Red 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (109052), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Jumbo 5/8" Brads (112533)

PRISCILLA'S PASTELS JOY FOLD CARD
Stamp Set:  Perfect Punches (Wood Mount 117022, Clear Mount 120516)
Paper:  In Color Patterns Designer Series Paper Stack (117158), Greenhouse Gala Designer Series Paper (117167), Whisper White (100730), Blushing Bride (119796), Pear Pizzazz (119795)
Ink:  Pear Pizzazz (119784)
Cool Tools:  2 3/8" Scallop Circle Extra Large Punch (118874), 2" x 1 3/8" Extra Large Oval Punch (119859),  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Elegant Lines Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (119277)
The Perfect Touch:  Jumbo 5/8" Brads (112533), Pear Pizzazz 1/2" Stitched-Poly Ribbon (119265), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Note:  Smaller card was cut to 8 x 3 1/4" and scored at 4"

Mojo Monday 152

 

The "Bird is the Word" for today's Mojo Monday Sketch (MOJO152) challenge.  Adorable, clever, versatile.  Need I say more about the Stampin' Up! Owl Punch and this layout?  

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Jewels Basic Pearls (finally, stick-ons--woo hoo!) are the perfect way to give this handsome owl a little jazz.  
• NEW PRODUCT ALERT!  The Decorative Label Extra Large Punch (available 9/1) used for the sentiment is one of my favorite new products in the Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog.  It's destined for your wish list!
• To keep the button in place on the ribbon, I used Linen Thread to tie both the button and ribbon together (from underneath the knot).
• What me, texture?  Yeah, baby and lots of it!  I used both the Elegant Lines and Perfect Polka Dots Textured Embossing Folders PLUS Stampin' Up! Textured Card Stock (luscious).

LIKE WHAT YOU SEE or HAVE A QUESTION?  Please leave me comment below.

PPA REVEAL THIS THURSDAY!  What do all the following have in common?  Celebrity Guest Color Challenges, a fashion twist and one of the classiest new blog designs around?  Stay tuned for the launch of the Pals Paper Arts blog makeover and whole, new personality, Thursday, August 19.

TO SEE ALL MY HOLIDAY MINI CATALOG SNEAK PEEKS, click here!

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

Stamp Set:  Word Play (Wood Mount 120308, Clear Mount 120651)
Paper:  Elegant Soirée Designer Series Paper (117163), Crumb Cake (120953), Soft Suede Textured (121078), Baja Breeze Textured (121075), Very Vanilla (101650)
Ink:  Soft Suede (115657)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Elegant Lines (119277) and Perfect Polka Dots (117335) Textured Impressions Embossing Folders, Oval Scallop Frame Bigz Die (114521), Scallop Edge Border Punch (119882), Decorative Label Extra Large Punch (120907, available 9/1), Two-Step Owl Extra Large Punch (118074), Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (118309)
The Perfect Touch:  Very Vanilla 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (109055), Linen Thread (104199), Jewels Basic Pearls (119247), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Note: Click image above to enlarge.

No Slide Ribbon Video Tutorial

And they call it Poppy Love . . . This sweet little bowser was dipped In Poppy Parade and stamped on Whisper White card stock.  He looks quite dashing on this long and skinny card (5 3/4" x 3 1/4").  A few embellishments later and you have a Simple Saturday card. 

NEW PRODUCT ALERT!  Don't miss the Glimmer Brad in Poppy Parade . . . it's part of the new In Color Glimmer Brad Collection in the Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog (available Sept. 1).  Click to see all my Holiday Mini Sneak Peeks.

Today's Stampin' Pretty Tip comes to you in the form of a video tutorial.  Discover how to keep your ribbon from sliding on your cards with a simple technique.  I originally learned how to do this several years ago after watching a video tutorial by Michelle Single called the Stay Put Bow.  It's always been my favorite way to anchor my knots and bows.

I mixed and matched colors (and Glimmer Brads) using these cute stamps from Long Fellows (Hostess Level 2).  Did you know that you earn hostess benefits with on-line product orders of $150 or more?  Click here for details on Hostess Rewards!

Pear Pizzazz and Concord Crush

Peach Parfait and Poppy Parade

Blushing Bride and Pear Pizzazz

Pear Pizzazz and Blushing Bride

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIP:  The Stampin' Up! Small Open End Envelopes in Whisper White (107286) work beautifully with this sized card.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!  The Pals Paper Arts blog and challenge is getting a brand new "personality."  We can't wait to reveal what we have been up to and how you can join the fun starting Thursday, August 19.

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

Stamp Set:  Long Fellows (Hostess Level 2: Wood Mount 118720, Clear Mount 120136)
Paper:  Pear Pizzazz Textured Card Stock (In Colors Assorted 12 x 12, 119799), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Poppy Parade (119782)
Cool Tools:  Itty Bitty Punch Pack (118309)
The Perfect Touch:  Poppy Parade 1/2" Stitched-Poly Ribbon (119263), In Colors Glimmer Brads (121005, available 9/1), Stampin' Dimensionals (100430)

PPA55 and a Mini Sneak Peek

It's time to play this week's Pals Paper Arts Challenge (PPA55) and it's all about bright and beautiful colors.  Tempting Turquoise, Melon Mambo and Daffodil Delight collectively say "birthday" to me.   Check out this week's  Pals Paper Arts Design Team samples and cross over to the bright side!

 

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• NEW PRODUCT ALERT!  As soon as I saw this new oval punch in the Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog (available 9/1), I envisioned balloons and flower petals.  It measures 3/4" x 15/16" and is rounder than the current oval punch collection. 
• Bright colors don't need a lot of embellishing.  Balance the palette with white space and simplicity.
• The "balloons" are popped up on Stampin' Dimensionals and I used a Basic Black Stampin' Write Marker to draw the strings.
• Aren't those Tempting Turquoise Flower Brads (from the Brights Collection) splashy?  They come in so many colors that coordinate with the Stampin' Up! Core Colors.
• Click to see my Holiday Mini Catalog Sneak Peeks in one spot.  Products will be available Sept. 1.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!  The Pals Paper Arts blog and challenge is getting a brand new "personality."  We can't wait to reveal what we have been up to and how you can join the fun starting Thursday, August 19.

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

Stamp Set:  Fabulous Phrases (Wood Mount 117002, Clear Mount 120501)
Paper:  Brights Designer Series Paper Stack (Daffodil Delight, Melon Mambo, Tempting Turquoise, 117155, Whisper White (100730), Melon Mambo (115320)
Ink:  Basic Black (101179), Basic Black Stampin' Write Marker (100082)
Cool Tools:  3/4" x 15/16" Oval Punch Medium (120908, available 9/1), 3/16" Corner Punch Small (119871), Round Tab Punch Extra Large (119864)
The Perfect Touch:  Daffodil Delight 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon (119254), Brights Flower Brads (119734), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Pals Paper Arts KISS Challenge

This week's Pals Paper Arts Challenge (PPA54) is right up my alley.  KISS means I get to create a "Keep It Simple Sweetie" card.  For the masculine twist, simplicity falls into line perfectly.  Here are my secret ingredients to making a masculine card! 

Check out what the Pals Paper Arts Design Team drummed up for this week's challenge!

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Did you miss it?  The Woodland Walk Designer Series Paper escaped my devouring eye the first time I raced through the new catalog.  However, after about my third trip through, the gorgeous "organic" patterns grabbed my attention.
• I tucked some of the Woodland Walk paper in the envelope for a polished finish.  Click for my Video Tutorial on Lining Envelopes.  Very easy.
• Is there any color  that Crumb Cake doesn't look great with?  Very earthy with this paper and color palette.
• Layering the sentiment (A Word for You stamp set) over the oval really "punches" things up!

Want to see more samples from the Stampin' Up! 2010-2011 Idea Book and Catalog?  Click here and scroll, baby scroll.

PANT, PANT!  My Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog pre-order JUST ARRIVED!!  I'm gearing up for a Week of Sneak Peeks and am prepared to keep you drooling over new holiday products and stamps until the customer sales period begins on September 1.

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

Stamp Set:  Growing Green (Wood Mount 118758, Clear Mount 120624), A Word for You (Wood Mount 117032, Clear Mount 120528)
Paper:  Woodland Walk Designer Series (117389), Crumb Cake (120953), Very Vanilla (101650), Chocolate Chip (102128), Garden Green Textured Card Stock (Assorted Regals, 121076)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908)
Cool Tools:  3/16" Corner Punch Small (119871), 1 3/4" x 7/8" Oval Punch Large (119855), Modern Label Punch (119849)
The Perfect Touch:  Regals Brads (119737), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Crumb Cake Medium Envelope (107297)

Simple Saturday Topiary

Don't you love the hostess sets in new Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog?  One of the Level 3 sets really grabbed my attention called Playful Pieces.  It's such fun to combine different shapes and create for almost any occasion.  Birthday cakes, purses, holiday trees, balloons, ornaments and even today's topiary tree are possible. 

To learn how you can earn the Playful Pieces Hostess set FREE as part of the Stampin' Up! Rewards Program, CLICK HERE.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• A clean sketch, lots of white and simple elements can lead to some of the prettiest cards.
• I used the Stampin' Up! Paper-Piercing Tool to space my brads and create the little border on Pear Pizzazz.  The Paper-Piercing Template from the Mat Pack is an essential for keeping things neat.
• I inked the rectangular patterned stamp from Playful Pieces with VersaMark and stamped on Pear Pizzazz Card stock. 
• 1/2" and 3/4" circle punches were used to "shape up" the topiary. 
• A touch of Poppy Parade (man, I adore this clear red) adds a little sizzle.

HOT TIP!  To see more projects using Playful Pieces (or any other stamp set or tool), simply use the "Search Blog" tool on my left side bar.  Pop in the name and hit "search."  Like "magic" they all appear.

FREE STAMPIN' UP! GOODIES PLUS A $25 PRODUCT BONUS!  Live in the Tucson, Arizona area?  Hold a  workshop with me by August 31 and earn an additional $25 in FREE Stampin' Up! merchandise, starting with a $350 workshop order!  Check out Hostess Rewards.

NO TIME FOR A WORKSHOP?  You can earn Hostess Rewards (free stamps and merchandise) PLUS the extra $25, too.  Simply email me your order by August 31 (consider teaming up with a few stamping buddies to help you reach $350 in product).  Note:  This offer is not available through the on-line shopping cart

CLICK HERE FOR $25 HOSTESS BONUS FLYER!

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

Stamp Set:  Playful Pieces (Hostess Level 3:  Wood-Mount 119993, Clear-Mount 120145), Apple Blossoms (sentiment, Hostess Level 2:  Wood-Mount 118531, Clear-Mount 120139)
Paper:  Soft Suede Textured (Assorted Neutrals, 121078), Poppy Parade (119793), Pear Pizzazz (119795), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Poppy Parade (119782), VersaMark Pad (102283)
Cool Tools:  Heart to Heart Extra Large Punch (119881), Pinking Hearts Border Punch (117649), 1/2" Circle Small Punch (119869), 3/4" Circle Medium Punch (119873), 3/16" Corner Small Punch (119871), Ticket Corner Small Punch (119867), Paper Piercing Tool (116631), Mat Pack (105826)
The Perfect Touch:  Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Whisper White 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon (109025), Silver Brads (104336)

Tiny Purple Teacups PPA53

Think PURPLE!  Today's Pals Paper Arts Challenge (PPA53) is all about creating a monochromatic look using purple.  To see what purple delights the PPA Design Team and Guest Artist Carla B. whipped up, CLICK HERE and PLAY ALONG!

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• The Tiny Teacup stamp (sold as a single stamp for $5.95) struts it's stuff (clockwise, starting in the top left) in Elegant Eggplant, Perfect Plum, Concord Crush and Rich Razzleberry. 
• All four Stampin' Up! purples can become "pastels" if you stamp off once before stamping your card stock!
• Using a Concord Crush Stampin' Write Marker, I isolated "hello" from the Teacup Stamp. 
• The Oval punches set off center give a "retro feel."
• Round the bottom corners for a quick twist on a simple card.

LIVE IN THE TUCSON AREA?  You bring the guests, I'll do the rest.  PLUS earn $25 extra Stampin' Up! free product dollars now thru Aug. 31, too!  Click here for full details.

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

Stamp Set:  Tiny Teacup (118086)
Paper:  Whisper White (100730), Elegant Eggplant (105126), Rich Razzleberry Textured (Assorted Textured Brights, 121077)
Ink:  Elegant Eggplant (105210), Perfect Plum (101437), Concord Crush (119785), Rich Razzleberry (115658), Concord Crush Stampin' Write Marker (Assorted In Colors, 119801)
Cool Tools:  1 1/4" Large Square Punch (119865), 1 3/8" Extra Large Square Punch (119877), 1 3/8" x 5/8" Large Oval Punch (119863), 1 3/4" x 7/8" Large Oval Punch (119855), 3/16" Small Corner Punch (119871)
The Perfect Touch:  Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon (109070), Circle Rhinestone Brads Ice (109111), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Elegant Soirée Trio

I promised you lots of samples this week using new products from the 2010-2011 Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog and I plan to deliver!  Today's little trio showcases Elegant Soirée Designer Series Paper and Got Treats stamp set (oh, so versatile).  Both are products from My Top 10 Gotta Have It list.  Plus, I'll share how easy it is to make a coordinating mini designer envelope!

MINI CARD (3" X 3")

Stamp Set: Got Treats (Wood Mount 119114, Clear Mount 120627)
Paper:  Elegant Soirée Designer Series Paper (117163), Very Vanilla (101650)
Ink:  Stampin' Write Markers:  Baja Breeze (120965), Crumb Cake (120967), Basic Gray (120966)
Cool Tools:  Round Tab Punch (119864)
The Perfect Touch:  Antique Brad (117273), Basic Pearls Stick-On Jewels (119247), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

TO MAKE THE DESIGNER ENVELOPE . . .

It's a small sacrifice with a big return.  I carefully pulled apart one of my Stampin' Up! Whisper White Mini Square Envelopes (107309) to have an instant template (that can be used over and over).  Dotto repositionable adhesive (103305) keeps the template attached to the Designer Paper, ready for snipping.

My Paper Snips (103579) were key in navigating the curves.  Here's the inside of the cut Elegant Soirée Designer Paper. 

Score, adhere and admire!

Projects made with the Milk Carton Bigz Die are the darling of the new catalog!  It's all over the place.  Don't miss the little "to open" stamp on the "spout" from Got Treats.  Isn't that supremely adorable!

MILK CARTON (3 1/4" x 1 5/8" x 1 5/8")
Stamp Set:  Got Treats (Wood Mount 119114, Clear Mount 120627)
Paper:  Elegant Soirée Designer Series Paper (117163), Crumb Cake (120953), Basic Gray (121044), Very Vanilla (101650)
Ink:  Baja Breeze (111833)
Cool Tools:  Milk Carton Bigz L Die (117310), Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (118309)
The Perfect Touch:  Linen Thread (104199), Basic Pearls Stick-On Jewels (119247), Mini Library Clip (109857)

MATCHBOX (2 1/8" X 2 5/8" X 7/8")

Stamp Set:  Got Treats (Wood Mount 119114, Clear Mount 120627)
Paper:  Baja Breeze (111352), Very Vanilla (101650)
Ink:  Stampin' Write Markers:  Soft Suede (120973), Baja Breeze (120965), Crumb Cake (120967)
Cool Tools: Tag Punch (119866), Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border (119275), Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Elegant Lines Textured Impressions Embossing Folder
The Perfect Touch:  Very Vanilla 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon (109055), Linen Thread (104199), Basic Pearls Stick-On Jewels (119247)

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

Things Go Better With Coke

Inspiration is everywhere and sometimes where you least expect it.  My daughter and I recently flew to northern WI for a "Women in the Woods" retreat for the women in my family.  The Coca Cola napkin (below) was delivered by the flight attendant with my apple juice and generous bag of 10 peanuts (LOL). 

The colors (including the new In Color Poppy Parade--the bright, clear red I was hoping for) and clean graphic style were translated into today's Mojo Monday Sketch Challenge (MOJO148).

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Bling, bling . . . . the new Rhinestone Jewels from Stampin' Up! add a sparkling accent.  There's good reason that they made My Gotta Have It List for new catalog products.
• Isn't that patterned butterfly hip?  It's from Butterfly Prints (also in the new catalog) and coordinates perfectly with the Stampin' Up! Butterfly Punch.
• Elegant Lines Textured Impressions Embossing Folder splashes up the Whisper White squares.  What is it about embossed white that looks so smashing?
• Card size 4 1/4" x 5 1/2".  Circles (largest to smallest) in diameter:  4", 3 3/4", 2 1/2", 2 1/4".  I love how the Circle Scissor Plus gives me the freedom to create the exact size I need.  Here are helpful tips on using the Circle Scissor Plus.

STAY TUNED ALL WEEK for more inspiration samples using products from the new catalog.  I'm having a total lovefest creating with them!  Here's the link to all my samples featuring cool, stuff from the Stampin' Up! 2010-2011 Idea Book and Catalog!

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

Stamp Set:  Butterfly Prints (Wood-Mount 121049, Clear-Mount 120738)
Paper:  Sunny Garden Designer Series (119831), Whisper White (100730), Basic Gray (121044)
Ink:  Poppy Parade (119782), Stampin' Write Markers:  Poppy Parade (Assorted In Colors, 119801), Basic Gray (120966)
Cool Tools:  Butterfly Punch Extra Large (119848), 1 1/4" Square Large Punch (119865), 1 3/8" Square Extra Large Punch (119877), Circle Scissor Plus (112530), Glass Mat (112531), Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Elegant Lines Textured Impressions Embossing Folder (119277)
The Perfect Touch:  Basic Rhinestone Jewels (119246), Poppy Parade 1/2" Stitched-Poly Ribbon (119263)

Such a Hoot!

The new Stampin' Up! Owl Punch is a total "hoot!"  You can dress him (her) up or down or combine two for a bride and groom (I'm already dreaming how fun this would be with a little tux for the "guy" and pearls for the "gal").  The Owl Punch was a reader favorite when I published Mary's Gotta Have It Top 10!

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• I have been known to "over analyze" (AKA "obsess") over my purchases--including my wish list for Stampin' Up! products.  I can't believe I hesitated for a second (but ultimately purchased) the Woodland Walk Designer Paper.  It's absolutely smashing in real life.
• This sweet owl seems the epitome of "happiness" sitting on his little branch from the Two Step Extra Large Bird Punch.  He's popped up on a couple Stampin' Dimensionals for added oomph.
• A touch of Tangerine Tango on the heart and horizontal layer really say "zoinks" to me.  I dusted off and used my Crimper, too.  It really deserves more attention than it gets.
• Stampin' Up! Sticky Tape is key to keeping your 3-D projects together, including my Pillow Box.
• I haven't done a Splitcoaststampers Sketch Challenge (SC289) in ages.  Boy, was it nice to get back in the swing.

Would you like to see all my samples using products from the new Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog?  Click here and book mark my new catalog posts.  The link will continue to populate with newly posted samples, too!

CARD (4 1/4" x 5 1/2):

Stamp Set:  Fabulous Phrases (Wood Mount 117002, Clear Mount 120501)
Paper:  Woodland Walk Designer Series (117389), Tangerine Tango (111349), Chocolate Chip (102128), Very Vanilla (101650)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908), Garden Green (102272)
Cool Tools:  Two Step Extra Large Owl Punch (118074), Two-Step Extra Large Bird Punch (Stem, 117191), Crimper (101618)
The Perfect Touch:  Pear Pizzazz 1/2" Stitched Poly Ribbon (119265), Stampin' Dimensionals 104430)

BOX (Approx. 3 1/2" x 2"):

Stamp Set:  Sweet Shoppe Alphabet Upper (Wood Mount 118722, Clear Mount 120582)
Paper:  Woodland Walk Designer Series Paper (117389), Very Vanilla (101650)
Ink:  Garden Green (102272)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Pillow Box Die (113466), 1" Circle Medium Punch (119868), Crop-A-Dile (108362)
The Perfect Touch:  Pear Pizzazz 1/2' Stitched Poly Ribbon (119265), Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon (Summer Mini Catalog, 117287), Linen Thread (104199), Metallic Eyelets (105319), Sticky Strip (104294)

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

The New Kids on the Block

Remember my "Gotta Have It" post from last week?  The blog candy drawing is over and the goodies are on their way to the winner.  However, it's time to put my Top 10 favorite products from the new Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog into action and share some inspiration. 

Let's kick things off with one of my favorite stamp sets:  Greeting Card Kids.  It's vintage holiday with a nostalgic vibe.  The images are amazing solo or water colored to story book perfection.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• The sweet sentiment is from a new set called A Word for You.  It's just the right size for a sentiment or grab your markers and isolate the "happy birthday" font  for the front and tuck "with a cherry on top!" inside.  All the stamps in the set can multi-task this way!
• I flicked the edges of my focal point on a Cherry Cobbler ink pad.  This creates a touch of dimension and adds to the vintage feel. 
• Crumb Cake (the color formerly known as Kraft--any Prince fans?) works beautifully with almost any color you can pair it with. 
• I used Crumb Cake Ink to dress up the envelope flap with the Punch Potpourri stamp set.  The same set was used (Cherry Cobbler Ink on Cherry Cobbler card stock) for the card background.  

To View All My Samples From the New Idea Book and Catalog, CLICK HERE and scroll.

Digging the new Cherry Cobbler color?  Click here to retrofit your Stampin' Up! color collection with new color kits!

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

Stamp Set:  Greeting Card Kids (Wood Mount 119887, Clear Mount 120633), A Word for You (Wood Mount 117032, Clear Mount 120528), Punch Potpourri (Hostess Level 1: Wood Mount 118394, Clear Mount 120124)
Paper:  Crumb Cake (120953), Cherry Cobbler (119685)
Ink:  Cherry Cobbler (119669)
Cool Tools:  3/16" Corner Small Punch (119871), Boho Blossoms Extra Large Punch (119585), Paper Piercing Tool (116631) and Paper Piercing Mat (Mat Pack, 105826)
The Perfect Touch:  Stampin' Dimensionals (104430), Metallic Brads (119741)

Crumb Cake Medium Envelope (107297), Punch Potpourri (Hostess Level 1: Wood Mount 118394, Clear Mount 120124)

The Pals July Blog Hop Is Here!

Welcome!  If you've hopped over from Carla Bazhenow's blog, Carla's Scraps, I'm the next stop on the PALS  BLOG HOP.  I'll help you "hop along" from blog to blog where you'll find inspirational ideas using Stampin' Up! products and new colors from the new catalog created by My Stampin' Pretty Pals! 

Our complete blog line-up is below.  The next stop on the hop is Pal Joanna Munster's blog, Inspired by Stampin'.  The recipe for my card is below :)

HOP LINE-UP 

1.    Kylie Nicolosi  -  kyliescraftycorner.blogspot.com

2.    Mike Funke  -  stampin-style.typepad.com

3.    Barbara Furlong  -  www.theloveofstamping.com

4.    Martha Stewart  -  www.seasonsofstamping.com

5.    Gina Shaw  -  www.cardsbyginashaw.com

6.      Nina Dee  -  deesignsbyninadee.blogspot.com

7.     Jason Casper  -  www.stampindad.com

8.     Carla Bazhenow  -  www.carlas-scraps.com

9.     Mary Fish  -  www.stampinpretty.com

10.   Joanna Munster  -  www.inspiredbystampin.com

11.   Pam Giudici  -  pamshobby.blogspot.com

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

Stamp Set:  Perfect Punches (Wood Mount 117022, Clear Mount (120516)
Paper:  Greenhouse Gala Designer Series (117167), Chocolate Chip (102128), Baja Breeze (111352), Daffodil Delight (119683), Real Red (102482)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908)
Cool Tools:  2 x 1 3/8" Oval Punch (119859), Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (118309), Crop-A-Dile (108362)
The Perfect Touch:  Daffodil Delight 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon (119254), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

 

 

Mojo Monday Takes Flight

The Mojo Monday Sketch Challenge (MOJO147) earns its wings this week.  I used the Flight of the Butterfly stamp set to unite the half circle and little square elements of Julee Tilman's latest layout. 

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• A skinny snippet of Pumpkin Pie card stock looks like a faux stitch (perfectly matched) on the button.
• Take your square punches to a new level. The 3/16" Corner Punch crops opposing corners to give the square a fresh, modern look.
• The perfect flag?  Fold your ribbon in half and cut on an angle (from outside angled in to the fold) to get even points.
• Experiment with color.  I used my new Stampin' Up! Color Coach (121620, p. 165) to quickly come up with this bold combination.  Isn't it great to have River Rock back?

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

Stamp Set:  Flight of the Butterfly (111564)
Paper:  Soft Suede Textured Card Stock (Assorted Neutrals, 121078), Pumpkin Pie (105117), Real Red (102483), River Rock (108640)
Ink:  Soft Suede (115657), Real Red (102482)
Cool Tools:  Butterfly Punch (119848), 1 1/4" Square Punch (119865), 3/16" Corner Punch (119871), Four Petal and Circle Shapes from the Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (118309), Circle Scissor Plus (112530), Glass Mat (112531)
The Perfect Touch:  Real Red 1/2" Grosgrain Ribbon (109052), Brights Designer Series Buttons (119747), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Marvelous Playful Pieces

Create trees, gifts, butterflies, birthday cakes, flowers, purses and more, more, more. Mix and match and play with all the elements of the Playful Pieces Hostess Three Set.  This fun set can be yours FREE with a qualifying on-line order (so grab a few friends and order together).  Click to learn more about Stampin' UP! hostess rewards!

NEW STAMPIN' UP! COLOR KITS:  Supplement your markers, card stock, ink and more with the newest Stampin' Up! Colors.  Download Stampin' Up! Color Renovation Kits

MARY'S NEW CATALOG "GOTTA HAVE IT" LIST  AND BLOG CANDY GIVEAWAY!!!   Check out my favorites from the new catalog and join in on my blog candy fun! 

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

Stamp Set:  Playful Pieces (Hostess Level 3, Wood Mount 119993, Clear Mount 120145), In  A Word (Summer Mini Catalog, Wood Mount 117143, Clear Mount 120057), Punched Posies (Summer Mini Catalog, Wood Mount 118535, Clear Mount 120030)
Paper:  Daffodil Delight (119683), Poppy Parade (119793), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Daffodil Delight (119667), Poppy Parade (119782)
Cool Tools:  3/4" (119873) and 1/2" (119869) Circle Punches, Scallop Border Punch (119882)
The Perfect Touch:  Daffodil Delight 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon (119254), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Envelope:  Whisper White Small Open End Envelopes (107286)

PPA 50 Color Challenge

This little color trio oozes sophistication.  Basic Gray, So Saffron and Chocolate Chip (with a touch of More Mustard that I snuck in) look so chic combined, a good option to consider for a masculine card.   Check out the rest of the Pals Paper Arts Design Team samples and a chance at PPA Blog Candy for challenge participants!

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• The new Apple Blossoms stamp set (Hostess Rewards Level 2) is turning heads.  The versatile stem was inked in Chocolate Chip and stamped on So Saffron.  Did you know Hostess Rewards are available with on-line orders?
• Those big bold Chocolate Chip Jumbo Brads (5/8" Neutrals) are the perfect stage for the Itty Bitty Bits Stamps.  Each was cropped with the flower punch from the Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack.
• Grab your markers!  I used Basic Gray and More Mustard directly on the sentiment rubber to create the two color look.  Be sure to huff a couple times on the inked stamp to moisten evenly before stamping.
• A few extra stamps of the Apple Blossoms floral stamp give the Whisper White Medium Envelope (107301) a coordinated look.

INTRODUCING STAMPIN' UP! COLOR KITS.  Supplement your existing collection with these new color kits for markers, card stock, ink and more!  Download Color Renovation Kits!

STAY TUNED:  Mary's Gotta Have It List and Blog Candy.  TOMORROW I'll announce my 10 favorite picks from the 2010-2011 Idea Book and Catalog and you'll have a chance to win my Stampin' Up! blog candy package of goodies.

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

Stamp Sets:  Apple Blossoms (Hostess Level 2, Wood Mount 118531, Clear Mount 120139), Itty Bitty Bits (Wood Mount 117056, Clear Mount 120060)
Paper:  Basic Gray Textured (121078), More Mustard (100946), So Saffron (105118), Whisper White (100730)
Ink:  Chocolate Chip (100908), Stampin' Write Markers:  Basic Gray (120966) and More Mustard (100076)
Cool Tools:  2" x 1 3/8" Extra Large Oval Punch (119859), Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (118309)
The Perfect Touch:  Neutrals 5/8" Jumbo Brads (112533), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Simply Said "Let's Mojo!"

It's a delight sharing the new Stampin' Up! products with you on my Stampin' Pretty blog.  However, I have a few old favorite stamp sets and Simply Said (still current) was calling out to me this past weekend.  Things fell right into place when combining these stamps with this week's Mojo Monday Sketch (MOJO146) by Julee Tilman.

STAMPIN' PRETTY TIPS:

• Don't they look like sweet little balloons?  I covered each of the flowers on the Simply Said dotted stem image with a circle cropped by my Itty Bitty Shapes Circle Punch (Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack of 3). 
• Using a snippet of the Island Oasis Designer Series Paper (in the Tempting Turquoise Polka Dot pattern) among the "balloons" pulls together the matching pattern on the left.
• Soft butterfly impressions.  I used VersaMark to ink up my butterfly (Hostess Level 2 Punched Posies) for a soft and pretty finish.  I love how the Punched Posies set works with Stampin' Up! Punches--in this case the Butterfly Punch.
• I knew the top right corner needed a little something but felt brads might be too busy with the "balloons."  I opted for a bit of tone on tone texture using Rose Red card stock and the Elegant Bouquet Textured Impressions Embossing Folder.

I love hearing from you :)  Please leave me your comments and questions below!

NEW STAMPIN' UP! STARTER KIT!  New products, new price ($175) and more versatile than ever.  Check out the details on the 2010-2011 Standard Starter Kit and Fill Your Wish List and SAVE!

COMING SOON!  My "Gotta Have It" list for the new 2010-2011 Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog!  Click here to order your copy of the catalog or download it instantly!

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

Stamp  Sets:  Simply Said (115066), Punched Posies (Summer Mini Hostess Level 2, Wood Mount 118535, Clear Mount 120030)
Paper:  Island Oasis Designer Series (Summer Mini, 117173), Rose Red (102544), Old Olive (100702), Tempting Turquoise (102067), Whisper White (100730), So Saffron (105118)
Ink:  Old Olive (102277), VersaMark (102283)
Cool Tools:  Big Shot Die-Cut Machine (113439), Elegant Bouquet Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, Sizzlits Originals Ovals Die (114525), Butterfly Punch Extra Large (119848), Itty Bitty Shapes Punch Pack (118309)
The Perfect Touch:  Bitty Buttons (118761), Stampin' Dimensionals (104430)

Last Chance for Retiring Stamps

We are down to the wire on your final opportunity to order retiring Stampin' Up! stamp sets.  The last day to  stock up on your favorites is tomorrow, June 30.  If you order on-line, the order MUST be processed no later than 11:50 p.m. MT on June 30.  I recommend you not wait until the last minute to avoid any technology "tragedies!"

CLICK TO VIEW COMPLETE LIST OF STAMPIN' UP! RETIRING STAMPS.

The 5 1/4 x 5 1/4" card above was created for Splitcoaststampers during my gig on the Dirty Dozen Design Team.  It's the first time it's been published on my Stampin' Pretty blog.  I used Celebrate Everything for the big bold sentiment.  Yep, it's on the retiring stamp list so it's going, going, gone after June 30. 

Plenty of luscious accessories and Stampin' Up! colors are retiring on June 30, too.  This includes the Orchid Opulence card stock I used for this card.

CLICK TO VIEW THE UPDATED STAMPIN' UP! LAST CHANCE ACCESSORIES LIST.

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

Stamp Sets:  Always (113620), Celebrate Everything (114942)
Paper:  Whisper White (100730), Orchid Opulence (100969)
Ink:  Basic Black (101179)
Cool Tools:  1 1/4" (104403) and 1 3/8" (104401) Circle Punches
The Perfect Touch:  Circle Rhinestone Brads (Ice, 109111), 5/8" Basic Black Ribbon (115605), Stampin' Dimensionals