Freckled And Fun

Lock & Key Release Day!

2011-12-15T08:50:00.003-05:00

So it is the 15th of December and your cart is empty! The new Papertrey Ink release time is now 10pm EST. That will be the NEW Product Release Time. Go to Papertrey Ink tonight and order your Christmas goodies!

Here is a full view of the Lock & Key Set.

And for $5, you can also own the die for the Lock & Key set! I am telling you, it makes your life *SO* much easier! Well, your stamping life!

Each and every month I release a stamp set, I am intrigued with the designs shown by Nichole's design team. This month is INCREDIBLE! Some are detailed, some are so simple, yet exquisite! Stop by each and every blog to see the way these ladies used Lock & Key.

Thank you so much for your comments, your support and love during this release! Happy Holidays!

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Lock & Key, Day Six

2011-12-15T07:00:00.004-05:00

Oh the possibilities! Skeleton keys for weddings are SO hot right now!

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Clean and simple - white on white - cream on cream - with a hint of white is clearly so perfect for weddings!

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Now it is easy and economical to create personalized place cards, favors & items for your wedding using the Lock & Key stamp set, a little paper, ribbon and some imagination!

I created a tag, which the guests can use to write advice to the newlyweds, a save the date card and a table place card. I also made a keepsake for the couple, using some alcohol inks and a little ribbon, adhesive pearls and ribbon.

Aren't these cute Save The Date reminders? Just type out the information on the back!
So simple, yet so elegant! A little paper, some pearls, ribbon and rustic thread and you have an inexpensive way to begin your personalized wedding ensemble!

Next is a simple, yet elegant way to create your own place cards for your wedding: Simply print out the table number and then stamp the key on the back (I used the key with the heart). I die cut the lock and added a pearl to the corner. I also used the leafy vine die and cut the die in half and distressed it with ink, gluing it atop the place card.

An inexpensive and fun way to create memories from your wedding, have each guest write a piece of advice on a tag and collect them in a basket. Once you get back from the Honeymoon, read through the advice and place them in a scrapbook.

Simple die cut lock, tied on with some rustic thread. A little pearl for elegance!

The key is die cut and sponged, as is the edge of the tag!

Finally, here is the ornament:

I die cut the key and lock and made a "our first house" ornament for the couple to place on their first Christmas tree as husband and wife. A little gem on the key, some distressing and some rustic thread.

Some adhesive pearls make this ornament so elegant! The sentiment, printed on cardstock is adhered to the front of the ornament! The unique pattern which the alcohol inks create on ceramic is so beautiful and elegant!

It looks so pretty on the tree!

What do you think? I hope you enjoyed these ideas!

All supplies Papertrey Ink, unless otherwise noted!
wedding ensemble:

stamps: Lock & Key (available 12/15/11 at Papertrey Ink)
ink: sweet blush, berry sorbet
paper: cream, sweet blush
misc: sweet blush ribbon, rustic thread, adhesive pearls (purchased at Michael's), Lock & Key die, leafy vine die

Ornament:
paper: cream, sweet blush
ink: sweet blush (on key & lock), adirondack alcohol inks (on ornament), adhesive pearls, sweet blush ribbon, rustic thread

stop by the other designer blogs to see what they have going on!

Nichole ,
Dawn
Heather
Melissa &
Lisa are all blogging about the latest PTI goodies!

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Lock & Key, Day Five

2011-12-14T07:00:00.002-05:00

Designers love the look of white on white and cream on cream! I do too!

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I thought it would be nice to create a love note as elegant as the designs above!

What I ended up creating exploded into a clear favorite of mine! I cannot wait to hide this in Todd's suitcase the next time he goes away on business, with a little handwritten love note!

I used layers of papertrey cream cardstock, die cut and edge cut. The sentiment in in chocolate and the keys are stamped with brilliance platinum. I used a little of the platinum ink on the edges of the die cut shapes. Some pearls and some cream ribbon on the card!

close up

here is another inspiration photo:

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I think using chocolate and scarlet red makes for quite an elegant look!

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This is a simple design. I loved how the first inspirational photo had a bunch of keys tied together!

Each of the keys was die cut and stamped with a different color ink, then tied with twill and rustic thread. The base was die cut on the bottom, then impressed. I layered and pleated some lace I found in my craft closet. A layer of PTI scarlet ribbon was placed on top of that, and then I placed some buttons on each side!

So what do you think?

be sure to stop by the other blogs!!!
Nichole ,
Dawn
Heather
Melissa &
Lisa

cream card:
stamps: Lock & Key (available 12.15.11)
paper: cream
ink: brillance platinum, chocolate
misc: cream ribbon, pearls, dimensionals, die cut, edge die

scarlett chocolate card:

stamps: Lock & Key (available 12.15.11)
paper: cream, chocolate, scarlett jewel
ink: chocolate, gold, chai
misc: buttons, dimensionals, die cut, edge die, ribbon, twill, lace

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Lock & Key, Day Four

2011-12-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

Normally I just show cards, but this find (which I posted earlier this week) online was so cute, I had to try and replicate it!
Here is the frame I found online:

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The keys in the shadow box each look so unique against the kraft, cream and black. It lets the intricate details of each key come to life!

Here is my version!

First, I used some metallic inks to distress the black frame.

Then, I die cut the keys with a bunch of different scraps of cardstock: chocolate, cream, and some SU! caramel. I used a variety of inks, including chocolate, chai, versamark and a variety of brilliance ink pads. I used some embossing powders (gold, pirate gold, stardust, silver) on the keys as well to give them dimension and bling!

I placed the keys on a piece of PTI Kraft cardstock - spaced randomly, adhered with foam squares.

another close up:

more close ups:

Here is what I created using a frame I found in my craft closet!

Here it is in the Sunroom (my favorite room in the house)

Be sure to check out all the wonderful goodies that the other ladies are featuring on their blogs:

Nichole ,
Dawn
Heather
Melissa &
Lisa

stamps: Lock & Key (available 12.15.11 at Papertrey Ink)
paper: kraft, chocolate, cream & SU! caramel
ink: brilliance (copper, platinum, gold, versamark and PTI chocolate & chai)
misc: frame (5x7 black matted), dimensionals, PTI key die, embossing powder (gold, silver, stardust, clear)

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Lock & Key, Day Three

2011-12-12T07:00:00.002-05:00

You came back to check out more samples? WOW! Thank you!

I love the cool look of blues with black! The hint of aqua against the sharp color black with a hint of white! So awesome, don't you think?

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I used Aqua Mist paired with black and white on these cards - two different layouts with the same colors, different sentiment. Check it out:

a closer look:

Here is another design:

A closer look:

So what do you think?

Wait.....Nichole & company have more to show you!

Be sure to check them out too!

Nichole ,
Dawn
Heather
Melissa &
Lisa

happy life:
stamps: Lock & Key (available 12.15.11 at PTI)
paper: aqua mist, black polka dot designer paper, white
ink: black, aqua mist
misc: dies, corner rounder, punch, dimensionals

wisdom:

stamps: Lock & Key (available 12.15.11 at PTI)
paper: aqua mist, black polka dot designer paper, white
ink: black
misc: dies, corner rounder, punch, dimensionals, ribbons

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Lock & Key, Day Two

2011-12-11T07:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the second day of sneak peeks of Lock & Key, the latest stamp set I created for Papertrey Ink. This set will be available on 12.15.11 (at 7am EST). I am over the top excited about the possibilities with this set!

The card I created today was inspired by this modern & elegant bedroom. My Sophia Grace is a huge fan of the color purple. Purple reminds me of royalty....so seeing this beautiful room makes me think of success and prestige.

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I used the lavender moon and pale plum color combo to create this card. I love the sentiment! I know Todd and I have made many sacrifices to get where we are today, and this is something we choose to instill in our children. Wouldn't this be a great card to give to a college or high school graduate? This could also be a great card to give to someone starting a new career.

I added some gems to the key to give it a touch of bling! Who doesn't like bling?

I am SO excited about the ideas I came up with this month - I would love to show them ALL today, but I think I am going to {wink!} string you along for a few more days. Stop back and see me again tomorrow! Later this week, I will have a wedding ensemble that will knock your socks off - so don't bother wearing socks when you stop by in a few days! {wink!}

Hey, be sure to stop by and see what the other designers are up to!

Nichole ,
Dawn
Heather
Melissa &
Lisa all have some EYE candy for you!

{all supplies Papertrey Ink unless otherwise noted}
stamps: Lock & Key (available 12.15.11 at PTI)
ink: plum pudding
paper: lavender moon, cream, plum pudding, designer paper
misc: ribbon (plum pudding), buttons, rustic thread, corner rounder, gems, foam dimensionals

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Lock & Key, Day One

2011-12-10T07:00:00.002-05:00

The latest stamp set which I created for Papertrey ink is called Lock & Key. It will be available on 12.15.11 and it is a wonderfully versatile stamp set. Keys, particularly skeleton keys, have fascinated me: their intricate details, the history they hold. Each key is so unique. I see locks & keys being used in all kind of decorating - from wall art to jewelry.

I love the rich iron color and the details of this decoration:

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How fun is this - the variation of shapes and colors against the plain craft background. What a fun display for an entry to your home.

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A single key offset in a frame is an elegant look:

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These beautiful necklaces with pearls and gems make them so elegant against the silver, contrasted by the leather cord.

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Keys and locks used in patterns make a great background!

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A single key, so simple, yet so special and unique.

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A group of keys, different colors, creating an amazing design on a wall!

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Keys, labeled with a simple ribbon and card, a unique way of showing a table display at a reception

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So what do you think? Are you ready for a few days of samples....I am going to go nice and slow and start out with just one sample - but I will have you know, I have been crafting up a STORM with this set!

I used raspberry & black for this card! It makes for a fun Valentine, don't you think? I used a papertrey die to cut the black cardstock, then a scalloped punch for the white. The key and lock are both included in the stamp set....see the heart in the handle? Coordinates so cute with the sentiment, don't you think? And cutting out the keys and lock is easy, peasy, lemon squeezy with the coordinating dies.

I used some may arts ribbon on the bottom of the die cut... and the lock and key are adhered with a foam square!

Day two is going to be fun, so check back in ....and be sure to check out all the other designers...

Nichole
Heather
Melissa &
Lisa

I love your feedback - so let me know what you think!

all supplies Papertrey Ink, unless otherwise noted

stamps: Lock & Key (available 12.15.11), Polka Dot Basics
paper: White, Raspberry, Black
ink: white, raspberry
misc: PTI die, punch, ribbon (mayarts), dimensionals

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek: December Release

2011-12-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a little number I designed for Papertrey Ink. This stamp set will be available on 12.15.11

What do you think? I love the sentiments in this set....the images are so wonderful too!

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Willow, day seven

2011-11-15T23:59:00.001-05:00

Some additional samples of cards using the Willow stamp set!

kraft, new leaf, chocolate

chocolate, avocado

someone so special... card
Stamps: Willow
Paper: Kraft, new leaf, chocolate
Ink: new leaf, chocolate
Misc: PTI ribbon, buttons, dies

I'm so sorry... card
Stamps: Willow
Paper: Avocado polkadot designer paper, chocolate
Ink: avocado, chocolate, white
Misc: PTI ribbon, buttons, dies

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Willow, day six

2011-11-14T23:59:00.001-05:00

Here are a few more samples of cards with the Willow stamp set (available 11/15/11)

Avocado, chocolate and kraft....

Plum, avocado and white, along with PTI! designer paper

may the love... card
Stamps: Willow
Paper: Kraft, Avocado, chocolate
Ink: avocado, chocolate
Misc: PTI ribbon, buttons, dies

thinking of you... card
Stamps: Willow
Paper: plum, avocado, chocolate, PTI designer paper
Ink: avocado, chocolate, cream
Misc: PTI ribbon, buttons, thread, dies

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Willow, day five

2011-11-13T23:59:00.002-05:00

Are you on Facebook? Please take a second and click {HERE} to help Hannah's Hope Fund win a huge grant from Chase Community Giving.

Please vote ONCE for HANNAHS HOPE FUND on Facebook for a Chase grant. We must be in top 100, and #1 gets $250,000!

1) From SmartPhone, type http://bit.ly/teDtUw in your browser and vote!

2) On-line, go to: www.hannahshopefund.org and click the green “Go Vote” button

3) Click “Vote and Share”. You will be prompted to login to Facebook.

4) You will then be asked to click “Like”. Then, click ‘Vote and Share’ again.

5) Post to all your FB friends. Ask them to vote NOW to help save precious lives!

Think beyond FB, and get EVERYONE you know to vote! This money will go toward a clinical trial to treat GAN.

I paired the Willow set with some sentiments from Friends Till The End to create a card for a friend who is moving away to "Hot-lanta" later this month. We had a nice going away brunch for her the other day and I made this card, along with a "wonderful friends" address book. I used some SU! green cardstock with Hawaiian shores cardstock.

This card uses new leaf along with hawaiian shores. I did the rock and roll technique on the leaves.

All supplies Papertrey Ink unless otherwise noted:

wonderful friend card
Stamps: Willow, Friends till the end
Paper: White, SU! green and Hawaiian shores
Ink: SU! green, hawaiian shores
Misc: PTI ribbon, buttons, dies

thinking of you card
Stamps: Willow
Paper: cream, new leaf and hawaiian shores
Ink: new leaf, hawaiian shores
Misc: PTI ribbon, buttons, dies, dimensionals

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Willow, day four

2011-11-12T23:59:00.001-05:00

Welcome to day four of the Willow sneak peeks. What have you thought of the samples from the previous three days?

Today I am playing with chocolate, poppy and kraft.

I used an A2 poppy base, the polkadot basics stamp with poppy ink on the kraft cardstock, some chocolate cardstock with white ink. A few buttons and rustic thread...

This is a fun 4.25 square layout, very simple with a ton of buttons, but no sentiment.

A kraft A2 base on this last card, with polkadots in white ink on the bottom of the card. The white ink just POPS off the poppy layer and a satin chocolate ribbon coordinates well with the sentiment, stamped in chocolate ink.

All Supplies Papertrey ink unless otherwise noted

Willow (available 11.15.11) and polka dot basics
kraft, poppy and chocolate cardstock
poppy, chocolate, white ink
buttons (chocolate, poppy)
nestability dies, papertrey die (scalloped edge)
satin chocolate ribbon, rustic thread

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Willow, day three

2011-11-11T23:59:00.000-05:00

Welcome to day three of the Willow sneak peeks. What do you think so far?

Today I tried something new, using an A2 white card with a die cut frame in amethyst. I stamped the tree in amethyst and used a marker to edge the stamped portion and give it some emphasis. I used a double ribbon and left the project without a sentiment. That way, I can use it for a birthday, thank you note or just a card to write a love note to Todd.

While cleaning my office, I found a stash of designer paper and saw this unusual color. I thought it looked nice paired with chocolate. Die cut is with a piece of mint (remember SU! mint cardstock?). I sponged the edges and adhered it with a foam square.

all supplies Papertrey ink unless otherwise noted

amethyst willow

Willow (available 11.15.11) stamp set
white and amethyst cardstock
amethyst ink, amethyst and white polkadot ribbon, nestability die

chocolate mint willow

Willow (available 11.15.11) stamp set
chocolate PTI, mint SU! cardstock, designer paper
chocolate ink, nestability die, foam square

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Willow, day two

2011-11-10T23:59:00.001-05:00

First, I must wish my mom a HAPPY BIRTHDAY! This was us back in the 70s with my mom! She looked amazing for having 3 kids in 4 years, huh?

Now here she is in 2011 - 5 children, 10 grandchildren, one grandpuppy.

Happy Birthday Mom!

(On to the release)
I have always loved moss and amethyst together. I thought that this die was a perfect size for this card. A few buttons threaded with some rustic thread, willow tree in white ink, sentiment in lavendar (SU!).

I love this designer paper I found in my stash. The striped paper had a hint of blue in it, so I grabbed some SU! ink and scraps of bashful blue cardstock to create this card. I added some droplets of stickles to the branches on the tree.

Someone so special card

willow stamp set (available 11.15.11)
moss and amethyst cardstock (SU!)
moss (SU!) and plum (PTI) buttons, PTI thread
white PTI ink, lavender SU! ink, nestabilities die

With sympathy card

willow stamp set (available 11.15.11)
White PTI, bashful blue (SU!) cardstock, my minds eye designer paper
Bashful blue and celery ink, stickles, nestabilites circle die

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Introducing: Willow, day one

2011-11-09T23:59:00.007-05:00

Willow is the latest stamp set which I designed. The set will be available on 11/15 at Papertrey Ink.

Today, I started out with some earthy colors. I used a terra cotta A2 base and used a variety of copic markers for the sunset on a die cut piece of white glossy cardstock. I stamped the image in black ink. Remember that on glossy paper, use your copics first, then stamp with black ink so you don't smear!

I added a strip of summer sun cardstock for the sentiment, a few terra cotta buttons too!

Here is another card with some earthy colors. This is a pumpkin A2 base, a strip of avocado and some chocolate buttons. I used the rock and roll technique with the willow leaves. I started with spring moss ink and rolled the edges in avocado ink.

The sentiment and the tree trunk are stamped in chocolate ink.

all supplies are Papertrey ink unless otherwise noted:

with sympathy card

willow stamp set (available 11.15.11)
terra cotta and summer sun cardstock, (generic) glossy white cardstock
black ink, terra cotta buttons, nestabilities die

peace, prayers & blessings card

willow stamp set (available 11.15.11)
pumpkin, avocado and cream cardstock
chocolate, moss, avocado ink, chocolate buttons, nestabilities die

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek: Willow

2011-11-06T13:10:00.001-05:00

Here is the sneak peek of my latest stamp set, Willow. It will be available 11/15/11 at Papertrey Ink.

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Get to the point sentiment thank you

2011-11-03T23:59:00.000-04:00

Here is a super easy sample using Get to the Point sentiments.

for the mass quantity of cards which I made for thank you notes, post accident! I was able to mass produce these easy, clean cards in record time!

what do you think?

Hawaiian shores, pumpkin PTI cardstock
My Minds Eye designer paper
Martha Stewart butterfly punch
dark chocolate ink

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Faith & Hope sample seven

2011-11-02T23:59:00.000-04:00

one layer card - scored the bottom with my scor-pal (three lines) and stamped using the rock and roll technique with the leaf sprig using avocado and spring moss inks. Sentiment also from Faith & Hope using dark chocolate. Can't get easier than this!

white cardstock, avocado and spring moss ink, faith & hope stamp set, scorpal

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Faith & Hope sample six

2011-11-01T23:59:00.000-04:00

This card is using the same layout that I used for the regal rose card from a few days ago. Cool caribbean paper, some dcwv designer paper and some PTI buttons. Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy!
I threaded the scrap of paper through the nestabilities die and trimmed that edge off! Stamped the sentiments (from Faith & Hope) with dark chocolate ink.

cool caribbean and white cardstock, designer paper (DCWV), PTI buttons, nestabilites die
Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Faith & Hope sample six

2011-10-31T23:59:00.000-04:00

another clean and simple design (similar to a design which I featured a few days ago) - kraft and white....with a little ribbon. This time I stamped across the base of the card with some spring moss ink. I like that spring moss and kraft look so soft! I stamped across the die cut white cardstock with spring moss and the leaf sprig. Then I stamped the sentiment with dark chocolate ink.

PTI ribbon (actually twill) is spring moss, tied in a simple ribbon and V-cut on the ends.

PTI kraft and white cardstock
spring moss and chocolate ink
spring moss twill

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Faith & Hope sample five

2011-10-30T12:59:00.000-04:00

Super easy and a great way to use your scraps. I trimmed a scrap piece of designer paper through my nestabilities label die (just the edge) and just die cut off the end. I used an a2 base of SU! regal rose cardstock with a smidge of blush cardstock, stamped with the sentiment using dark chocolate ink. A few PTI buttons and the card is complete!

regal rose and blush SU! cardstock, designer paper scrap
dark chocolate ink and PTI! buttons

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Faith & Hope sample four

2011-10-29T23:59:00.002-04:00

another super simple, clean sample using PTI's Faith & Hope stamp set!

a few strips of designer paper scraps and a die cut atop a kraft a2 card base.

kraft, pumpkin and designer paper scraps
dark chocolate ink (sentiment)
foam squares (under die cut)

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Faith & Hope sample three

2011-10-28T23:59:00.001-04:00

Welcome back to my faith & hope samples. I had several thank you notes to make post-accident, so thought I would use my latest stamp set (Faith & Hope) to create some personalized notes.

This one was super easy. I die cut a piece of cardstock and layered it on a a2 notecard on which I
placed some fun designer paper. I stamped on the die-cut portion with the leaf sprig, then stamped the sentiment, added some buttons and adhered it offset on the card. I trimmed the edge and completed the note. Simple!

old designer paper, white a2 card base, pumpkin PTI cardstock, die cut
pti buttons, smoky shadow and pumpkin inks, cream ink on edge of pumpkin die cut

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Faith & Hope sample two

2011-10-27T23:59:00.000-04:00

another sample using faith & hope stamp set from Papertrey Ink

die cut the white layer and stamped with avocado and spring moss ink using leaf sprig. Punched circle and stamped sentiment in chocolate ink. layered it atop the die cut layer. Added buttons and ribbon.

all supplies PTI
kraft and white cardstock, new leaf, avocado and spring moss and dark chocolate ink
PTI buttons, die, circle punch, PTI chocolate ribbon

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Faith & Hope sample one

2011-10-27T11:42:00.003-04:00

You know you are loved when you have to spend hours making thank you notes to friends and family all over the US who have embraced your family over the past few months. It has been just over two months since the accident.
I decided that my healing therapy would be to start crafting again. I wanted to create some thank you notes to my friends who sent my gift cards and care packages, dinners (meal train) and other random acts of kindness....
For the next few days, I will be showing some samples of the cards which I made over the past few weeks. I think I am finally caught up....

chocolate and caribbean!

for this sample, I used some retired SU! carribean cardstock along with some polka-dot chocolate brown PTI! designer paper, chocolate and caribbean ink with the Faith & Hope stamp set. Small butterfly punch (Martha Stewart) and PTI gem (on butterfly) and buttons.

Tune in tomorrow for another sample.

What do you like about this one?

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek day seven: Faith & Hope

2011-10-14T23:58:00.000-04:00

some more super simple cards. Started with a 4.25 square card....

super simple, clean and easy!

What do you think?

green courage

white cardstock, new leaf cardstock, new leaf ink, PTI green gems

blush heals you

blush, ruby red, chocolate, white cardstock, designer paper, blush & chocolate ink, punches, dies and buttons

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek day six: Faith & Hope

2011-10-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

Another super simple card with the leaf sprig from the Faith & Hope set (available at Papertrey Ink on 10.15.11).

I used an A2 some blush atop a retired piece of SU! cardstock (Guava). I piece of scalloped chocolate across the top third of the card, with a few buttons to give it some flair.

I stamped the sprig in guava and cream. I also stamped the sentiment in chocolate. Super simple, yet elegant.

stamps: Faith & Hope (available 10.15.11)
paper: blush (PTI), guava (SU!), chocolate
ink: guava (SU!), cream and chocolate (PTI)
misc: buttons and scalloped die (PTI)

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek day five: Faith & Hope

2011-10-13T00:01:00.000-04:00

Quick simple card with some of the elements in the Faith & Hope set. This seems like such a great card to give to someone going through a tough time. You can change colors to create a more masculine look. I love this sentiment!

card measures 4.25 x 4.25. moss layer and white layer adhered to card with foam dimensionals.

stamps: Faith & Hope (available 10.15.11)
paper: lemon, moss, white (PTI)
ink: white, black, moss
misc: punch, dimensionals, ribbon

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek day four: Faith & Hope

2011-10-12T00:01:00.005-04:00

Today I am showcasing two projects with Faith & Hope.

Faith & Hope will be available for sale on October 15th.
It will retail for $15, with all profits being donated to charity (50% to Livestrong and 50% to Susan G. Koman).
Faith & Hope contains a total of 17 stamps (1 polka-dot ribbon, 1 leaf sprig, 7 buds/berries for leaf sprig and 8 sentiments)
A coordinating die for the ribbon image in this set will be available for sale separately for $3. the die measures 1-1/2" x 2".

This card is a wonderful message showing the ribbon and sentiment of faith! What I like about this set is you can coordinate the ribbon for just about any type of cause: Here is a list of {awareness ribbon colors}. The ribbon die is a bargain at $3 and you can mass produce the ribbons without the polka-dot stamp!

This set uses raspberry ink, cardstock, ribbon and gems. The sentiment is stamped in black ink.

This monochrome blue card shows the Cancer is limited sentiment, along with the coordinating poem sentiment. I stamped the sprig of leaves in white ink on the enchanted evening cardstock. I added some PTI buttons to the side!

all supplies from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise noted

Pink Heals You Card

stamps: Faith & Hope (available 10.15.11)
paper: raspberry, white
ink: raspberry, black
misc: pink gems, stitched ribbon, dies

Blue Cancer is Limited Card

stamps: Faith & Hope (available 10.15.11)
paper: spring rain, enchanted evening, white
ink: white, spring rain
misc: buttons, dies, foam squares

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek day three: Faith & Hope

2011-10-11T12:09:00.007-04:00

Welcome to another day of sneak peeks for my new Faith & Hope set. Being touched by the devastating diagnosis of Cancer, whether it be a friend or loved one, is one of life's most difficult moments. A simple note to say, "I love you" or "I am thinking of you" is something that can really make a tough day a little more cheery.

Recently, my family went through a very difficult time, and for those of you who reached out to me, I thank you! This set is going to allow me to create some personal cards, thanking those people who sent flowers, dinners, books, and baskets to my family. You never know when tragedy is going to touch your life. Nearly losing my husband and daughter really made me put my life in perspective.

For those of you wondering, my husband has made amazing strides in the past few weeks. He is now walking. He has been working hard during physical therapy and I am so very pleased that he has gained back mobility! My daughter has made an incredible recovery and she is one of the strongest 13 year olds I have the honor of knowing. She is immersed in school, church and middle school social life. She has also returned to swimming. I am so proud of her!

Stamping is one of my passions, as is creating stamps for Papertrey ink. My life has been abundantly blessed in so many ways. After seeing Lance Armstrong at a conference a few years ago, my husband Todd came home and told me how wonderful it is to have this foundation. Our family has lost many people to many types of cancer, my decision to donate all the proceeds to Livestrong was an easy one. I am truly touched that Nichole has decided to match those proceeds and donate all of their profits from the sale of this set to the Susan G. Komen fund.

This simple 4.25 x 4.25 white notecard is embossed on the bottom with two lines. I stamped the leaf sprig with avocado ink and the flowers with raspberry ink. I added some raspberry twill and a small avocado die, stamped with the sentiment Hope.

Be sure to stop by and see all the wonderful things which Nichole Heady created with this set. Also, Betsy Veldman, Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols, Melissa Bickford & Tiffany Pastor have some wonderful surprises on their blogs!

stamps: Faith & Hope (available 10.15.11)
paper: white, avocado (PTI)
ink: white, avocado, raspberry (PTI)
misc: raspberry twill, die, foam squares

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek day two: Faith & Hope

2011-10-10T16:07:00.004-04:00

This set makes for great simple and clean cards! The coordinating die is a wonderful add on too! Raspberry ink on blush blossom card stock for the ribbon. The sentiment is true black ink.

stamps: Faith and Hope (available 10/15/11)
paper: raspberry, blush (PTI)
ink: raspberry, black (PTI)
misc: button, thread (PTI), dimensional (under ribbon)

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek day one: Faith & Hope

2011-10-09T16:04:00.000-04:00

Here is a little sneak peek of the latest set I designed for Papertrey Ink! What do you think?

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

The accident:

2011-09-20T10:36:00.003-04:00

Back on August 25, while on our family summer vacation, my oldest daughter (Karen, age 13) and my husband, Todd were severely injured while parasailing in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. They were life-flighted to a trauma hospital in Norfolk, Va. Todd suffered a spinal cord injury amongst other very severe injuries. After a week in the trauma hospital, Todd was able to take an angel-flight/air-ambulance to a local rehabilitation hospital in our area.

Karen was also injured quite severely, but has since returned to school. I appreciate all the prayers, cards, positive thoughts for their (and our entire families) healing. It will be a few more weeks before I return to stamping and blogging. Thank you for your patience!

Todd and Karen days before the accident

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS236: Penny for your thoughts....

2011-08-13T22:47:00.003-04:00

This week's featured stamper is Penny - pawallen142 on SCS.

The card which I really loved was the simple, clean {insightful meadows} card.

I changed the colors and stamp set. I used the flower from Springtime doodles with fresh snow ink on this awesome glittery turquoise cardstock (DCWV mat pack). I die cut the butterfly with some coordinating glitter paper from the pack. I did a fun bow with some PTI ribbon and then placed a tiny orange button inside the butterfly. Simple and cute! Love it! I love that I can use this card for just about any occasion! Just grab and go - stamp a sentiment inside! :)

stamps: Springtime Doodles (PTI)
paper: DCWV glitter paper (mat pack)
ink: fresh snow (PTI)
misc: Button, dimensionals (under butterfly), ribbon (PTI)

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS235: Daiseyfreak

2011-08-06T21:33:00.002-04:00

Oh Joy! This week's featured stamper is DaiseyFreak. Here is her {chicken} card... which I thought was very case-able! I changed the colors and stamp set and replaced the brads with some bling!

I used some DCWV paper, some PTI cardstock (chocolate, hawaiian shores and white) -- the ribbon is PTI and a butterfly punch. The green gems are from PTI. Sentiment is from PTI's Inside & Out Birthday. Butterfly punch is on dimensionals, as is the main image.

stamps: Inside & Out Birthday (PTI)
ink: avocado
paper: DCWV, chocolate, white, hawaiian shores
misc: dimensionals, punches, green gems (PTI)

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Drop the M! Now FreckledandFun.co

2011-08-01T08:32:00.003-04:00

Three years ago (after an unfortunate incident when someone decided to take my blog name!)...I purchased a website domain name corresponding to my freckledandfun blog (to redirect people to my blog easier). I purchased the domain name with my credit card and over the past three years, the credit card number has changed (probably several times). Lost credit cards reissued, bank security breech...new cards arrived on a regular basis. Fast forward to the middle of the night on August 1, when Go Daddy went to "auto-renew" and the credit card wouldn't go through... so they cancelled my website altogether. Frustrating! Within hours of the cancellation, someone in Romania decided to grab the website....Probably to try and solicit me and get money out of me.....

So now, I am dropping the M -- and I have a .co account for easy access to all things freckledandfun! It is the newest, global website extention!

Please feel free to update your blog roll if I was on it -- thank you!

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

fs234: Amylovesnormajean

2011-07-30T22:40:00.006-04:00

This week's featured stamper is Amy (aka AmylovesNormaJean)....

her {christmas sleigh} card was so eye catching to me - I loved the coordinating pattern paper and elegance of the stamping~ I created this card for a very special person in my life...

changes: pattern paper, removed the ribbon and brads...added flowers and buttons...changed the main image from an image to a sentiment....changed the colors of the design too. Bird stamped in black and colored in copics. Love this little bird paper! Thought the little bird would coordinate cute with it...made a cute bird-day card!

the sentiment is from Inside & Out Birthday, the bird from Springtime doodles.

stamps: Springtime Doodles, Inside & Out Birthday {Papertrey Ink}
ink: Black, copics
paper: white, pumpkin, designer paper (DCWV)
misc: buttons, punch, dimensionals, prima flowers

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS233: Mocjen

2011-07-23T23:48:00.005-04:00

This week's featured stamper is Jennie - aka MOCJEN on SCS. Here is the card which I chose to case: {OWL60 Sunset}

changes: stamp set - used designer paper instead of stamping the background color

I really liked the clean look of her one layer card - but instead of the stamped background in pinks, I used some designer paper. I used the flower from Delightful Dahlia and the sentiment from With Sympathy.

I stamped the flower in black ink, then used some copics to color in the flowers, with a hint of white ink on the flower. Simple, clean look. Perfect for a sympathy card.

stamps: Delightful Dahlia, With Sympathy (PTI)
paper: white, retired designer paper (SU!)
ink: black, copics, white gel pen
misc: stickles (in center of flower), decorative edge scissors

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

fs230 Cjoy

2011-07-02T23:40:00.004-04:00

This week's featured stamper is Cindy (Cjoy). I used her Glitter puzzle card!

I changed the colors and stamp set, along with the theme. I used baby button bits set to create this card. Blue base, DCWV paper for the base of the card. I stamped the bear on designer paper and trimmed it out. Welcome little one is stamped on the same blue as the base.

stamps: baby button bits (PTI)
paper: blue, DCWV, SU designer paper
ink: black
misc: buttons, foam squares

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS229: SevenCats

2011-06-25T23:37:00.004-04:00

Meow! It's really Me-WOW!

Seven Cats has SEVERAL cards that are case-worthy! Purrrfect! Claudine's {Sea Shells}
card was cute, but I wanted to make it more clean cut for a birthday card. I changed the colors, theme and stamp set. I started with a white base and added some old SU! designer paper. Remember this stuff in a 6x6 pack? Yes, I am a hoarder! I made the long, tall card and reduced the size to pretty small! I used a white layer, propped up on foam squares. Then placed a ribbon with some buttons on the card. The card is for Evan and Sean, who turn 3 (three buttons) - the two blue buttons are for the boys! Happy birthday (inside & out birthday) was stamped in black on a punched oval on the reverse side of the designer paper.

Thats it! Except on the inside I stamped "Good things come in multiples"!

stamps: Inside & Out Birthday
paper: white, designer paper (SU! retired)
ink: black
misc: oval punch, ribbon, foam squares, swiss dots folder, buttons (PTI)

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS228: Tami Mayberry

2011-06-18T22:18:00.005-04:00

This week's FS is Tami Mayberry. Her Card {Bundle of Joy} is adorable. I loved it - changed it to a father's day card. Here is my version - using wasabi and violet - two of Todd's favorite colors. Today is his birthday - tomorrow father's day! Love you honey!

Thank you to the person who sent me the link to the "Smack Center" post by someone who was mocking me. I will not dignify that place with any more of my thoughts.

PTI star prints, white and wasabi cardstock, star punch & bakers twine, diamonds in the rough folder

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

fs227: StamperCamper

2011-06-11T21:46:00.004-04:00

Here is this week's featured stamper cards (yes, plural)

Mary is this week's featured stamper and her first card {Celebrate} was fun to recreate: I changed the the colors and stamp set! I also added buttons and used designer papers and a punch for the butterfly! I made it a one layer card and framed it with a score line.

stamps: teacher's apple
paper: kraft, moss, designer paper (Basic Grey)
ink: black
misc: butterfly punch, buttons, ribbon, foam dimensionals

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The second card is based on Mary's {On the Grow} card. I changed the colors and stamp set. I loved the layout of her card, so I just changed the colors and stamp set. I used a poppy base, added some green (dry pressure embossed) with some fun designer paper.

As you can imagine, I have a TON of these teacher thank you notes to make! I better get crack-a-lackin'! I have been asked about what kinds of gifts I like to give to the teachers....Usually I get them gift cards (Itunes or Tarjay)...something they will use! The one thing I love is when I get to contribute to a group gift - it makes my life SO much easier. I usually thank the parent who organizes it PROFUSELY! I love to NOT have to do that and beg the other parents for money! One of the things I have taken to doing is getting a folding outdoor chair (like the beach chairs that you can fit in the bag). I use a Sharpie marker and write on the back of the chair: Teacher Of The Year, 5th Grade 2010-2011. I usually put their name too! That has always been a hit! I saw Karen's teacher from two years ago sitting in her chair outside the other day, reading to her class! What a great memory!

stamps: teacher's apple (PTI)
ink: black, poppy, new leaf
paper: poppy, green, designer paper (DCWV)
misc: corner rounder, foam dimensionals, swiss dots embossing folder

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS226: stagccva

2011-06-04T22:28:00.005-04:00

This week's featured stamper is Taylor (aka stagccva) Usry! She is a great friend and a wonderful stamper. The (pink poppies) card I spied in her gallery made me gasp! So here is the version I made:

Changes:
colors, stamp set, main image shape

I started with a white base, added a strip of basic grey paper and scored some lines above and below. I used Scattered Showers for the main image and sentiment. I stamped the umbrella on some coordinating Basic Grey paper. I trimmed the umbrella out, stamped the handle and sentiment on a punched white circle and then adhered it to the punched new leaf scallop circle. The umbrella and the main image were adhered with foam squares. I added some stickles on the top and bottoms of the umbrella. I used some dew drops atop the score line and SHAZAM! the card is done!

This card was for Coach Alyssa's shower. Showers of LOVE for Scott & Alyssa!

paper: white PTI, basic grey dp
ink: black, new leaf
stamps: scattered showers (PTI)
misc: dew drops, foam squares, punches

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS225: Rosigrld & Happy Birthday Sophie G!

2011-05-28T22:59:00.008-04:00

This week's featured stamper is Rosemary. Her card {here} was my inspiration. I changed the colors & stamp set, rounded one corner and added a button and thread instead of bling.

This was literally a 2 minute card. The white base was corner rounded on one side, I stamped the sentiment from Inside & Out Birthday in pure poppy (it is getting *SO* dry - I need a reinker!!!). I die cut the butterfly (PTI) with some DCWV designer paper and sponged the edge. I added a button with some bakers thread. The butterfly is attached with a foam square.

Finished! Phew! So simple, and mass producible! Love it!

A super-d-duper Happy 6th Birthday to my Sophie G.

Did you know that the Riley & Sophie G. stamps were named after a little girl named Riley and this little sweetie pie? She is a peach!

stamps: Inside & Out Birthday {PTI}
ink: pure poppy
paper: PTI white, DCWV designer paper
misc: Butterfly die cut (PTI), PTI button & bakers thread, foam square

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS224: PaperInBloom

2011-05-21T22:40:00.002-04:00

This week's featured stamper is Carly (aka PaperInBloom). The adorable {Puppy Friend} card in her gallery immediately caught my eye. I decided that it would be cute if I changed it up a bit (colors, stamp set) and here is my version:

I used a caribbean base, but instead of stamping like Carly, I used the swiss dots dry embossing folder. I LOVE IT! I changed the colors to new leaf (PTI) and caribbean (SU!). I stamped the train from train tracks on the select white paper and colored it with copics. I stamped the sentiment (also from Train Tracks) in black and swished some copics across them. The main image is adhered with dimensionals. I used button and twill from PTI in new leaf to complete the card.

stamps: train tracks (PTI)
paper: caribbean (SU!), new leaf, white (PTI)
ink: black, copics
misc: new leaf twill, button, dimensionals, swiss dots folder

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS223: Aimes

2011-05-14T22:01:00.004-04:00

She *Aimes* to please with her papercrafting! Aimes really has a fun style and really seems to love Papertrey Ink (although not one of my stamp sets was ever used) - ha ha! I found this cute & simple card {Happy Birthday} and knew it was totally CASE'able. I decided to change the colors, stamp set & add some extras!

First, I started with a cool caribbean base. I don't know why...I guess because it was on my desk and I didn't have the time to clean up my desk before stamping today! I grabbed a stack of DCWV paper and found some coordinating paper (the fun stripes) and added that to the bottom of the card. I used the PTI eyelet lace border with some new leaf paper and added that instead of the ribbon Aimes used. I took my SUPER fun Get to the point stamp set and added a bunch of arrows in random order with hawaiian shores ink.

I used some new leaf ink with the sentiments Happy and Birthday from the Get to the point sentiments stamp set. Finally, I threw three buttons (orange zest, hawaiian shores, pure poppy) in the bottom corner. Fun FUN FUN!!! Why don't you play along this week?

stamps: Get to the point & Get to the point sentiments {Papertrey Ink}
ink: hawaiian shores, new leaf
paper: cool caribbean (SU!), new leaf, DCWV designer paper
misc: buttons (orange zest, hawaiian shores, pure poppy), eyelet lace die

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS222: Reddyisco

2011-05-07T17:19:00.006-04:00

First of all, Happy Mother's Day to everyone out there! It is the one day that brings my heart sch joy, because I am able to share it with my mom and my kids!

I love my kids more than the world, they were my greatest gift ever and I am so proud to be their mom. They bring my heart joy, laughter and completeness! Each and every child is so different than the other, and they are so kind, loving and wonderful to me and Todd.

Here we were last weekend at Victoria Joan's First Communion:

In the Lutheran church, the rite of first communion takes place in the 5th grade. Next weekend, Karen will be confirmed. It has been a busy May for us so far! This is our relaxing weekend. We had a swim meet Saturday morning (the older five swim competitively!) and swam really well. It was heartwarming to see Karen, Victoria and Sophie on a relay (with another swimmer on the team). It brought a tear to my eye to see the girls crowd on the edge of the pool cheering on their brother! Moments like that I cherish!

On to this week's featured stamper! This week's featured stamper is Reddyisco (Jo). The card I found was this rich, clean card {1432} with a big red bow! Love it! The textures were awesome. I changed the colors, stamp set and the main cuttlebug folder. Instead of a bow, I used a button with a bakers twine bow. The stamp set I used is Springtime Doodles from Papertrey Ink. The cuttlebug folders (birds & swirls and swiss dots).

Stamps: Springtime doodles (papertrey ink)
Paper: white, hawaiian shores
Ink: black
Misc: Hawaiian shores polka dot ribbon, Hawaiian shores button, bakers twine (black), cuttlebug (swiss dots and birds & swirls), oval punch

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS221: LateBlossom

2011-04-30T22:37:00.004-04:00

This week's featured stamper is Susan (aka LateBlossom). I loved her Infinite Butterfly card! Ohh so classic and adorable! ALL of Susan's cards are FANTASTIC!

I made a couple of changes from the original:

colors, stamp set, added some ric rack, different edge, rounded corners, butterfly not stamped...

First, the color....I used some lemon tart base (which screams spring to me!). I rounded the corners on the bottom. I took a piece of white cardstock and die cut the edge with the PTI large scallop die. I stamped the sentiment from Everyday Blessings on the white layer with black ink. The PTI die cut butterfly is on designer paper, then adhered with a foam square. Three green gems in the center of the butterfly. I used some copic markers to alter the ric rack to a green to match the color on the designer paper.

This card is for my daughter, Victoria Joan, who celebrates her first communion tomorrow!

stamps: Papertrey Ink {Everyday Blessings}
paper: lemon tart, white, designer paper (DCWV)
ink: black, copics
misc: gems (PTI), ric rack, foam square, PTI dies {butterfly, large scallop), corner rounder

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

fs220: Freshn'Sassy

2011-04-23T22:58:00.004-04:00

Blessed Easter to you and yours!

What a crazy hectic day - I had to bring my MAC in for servicing as it would not even turn on! YIKES! I am working on my old Viao and it is so slow, so I am trying to get everything up and ready, plus get ready for Easter! We spent the evening coloring easter eggs with the kids, then rushing them off to bed so Peter Rabbit can hop on over to the house tonight! I hope the dog doesn't scare that bunny away!

This week, for the Featured Stamper Challenge, I chose Shelly's gallery {Freshn'Sassy} to check out this week when I spotted this {Thanksgiving} card. So clean and simple, I knew I could change it up a bit!

Changes: Stamp set and colors

My versions (it was so simple, I made two!)
Ladybug version:

Mushroom version:

Both cards start with a SS white base and then the image was stamped in black ink. The images were colored with copics and then the sentiment was stamped in the lower corner. I used a black gel pen to create the box around the images.

stamps: Springtime Doodles
paper: stampers select white (PTI)
ink: black, copics
misc: black gel pen

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS219: Coffeestamper

2011-04-17T06:17:00.007-04:00

This weeks featured stamper is Coffeestamper, Sue (aka Perk or Perkzi). Apparently giving up coffee for lent has left my brain in a frizzle and I completely overlooked Sue as a featured stamper! YIKES! Sorry it has taken so long Sue! Sue is one of those SCS'ers that has been such a great part of the community - she participates in MANY challenges and really cheers on her fellow stampers!

I saw her {Gently falling in love} card and knew it would be a great case card...

There were a few changes from Sue's card....

colors
stamp set
added buttons
used patterned paper instead of dry embossing
changed to a square card

I changed up the color a bit to this fun blue, green combo. I love dry pressure embossing, but thought it would be fun to use some of my stash of patterned paper on the background instead. I found this piece of DCWV stack paper in my stash and thought it would make a nice masculine card for my friend Matt's birthday.

I used a strip of embossed new leaf paper with a v cut on the bottom to the card base. I punched out a few scalloped squares in blueberry and new leaf. On the new leaf piece, I stamped the main image with the presents from Train Tracks and the Happy Birthday sentiment from Inside & Out Birthday. I stamped the presents on a few scraps of coordinating patterned paper and trimmed them out and mounted them atop the present on the main image. I used a few copics to spice up the rest of the presents. I added some buttons, one threaded with some blue bakers twine, to finish off the card.

stamps: Train Tracks & Inside & Out Birthday
paper: DCWV, blueberry, new leaf
ink: black, copics
misc: by the numbers impression plate, scalloped square punches, buttons, bakers twine (blue)

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek: Train Tracks release night, part 2

2011-04-14T22:45:00.004-04:00

So when I created this set, it was with my son in mind. I felt that there had to be a stamp set in my brain that was meant, just for my little man! Xavier has 5 sisters, and he is ALL BOY! I created this set with the sole intention of creating a name frame for his room! So here it finally is and it came out just as I imagined it!

The background of the frame is pure poppy. I used a striped blue ribbon for the track. I die cut the train engine and caboose and stamped on them, then colored them in with copics. I die cut the flatbed three times and stamped it, colored it in with copics as well.

I stamped the square from borders and corners: square six times on ivory cardstock. I stamped the Trajan monogram alphabet to spell out XAVIER. To me, the boxes almost look like wood blocks on the back of the flatbed.

I added the smoke (all cut out by hand) and adhered them with foam squares. I colored in the smoke with copics.

I cannot wait to share this with him in the morning! He is going to love it, because his favorite color is red! This would be a great "NY Giants" train! Go GIANTS! :)

stamps: Train Tracks, Tajan Alphabet, Borders & Corners: Square
paper: pure poppy, ivory
ink: black, copics
misc: frame (custom cut mat), ribbon (mayarts), stickles, foam squares

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek: Train Tracks Release Night

2011-04-14T22:15:00.003-04:00

Well what a fun week it has been! Here is another card which I created with Train Tracks. This time, I used Holiday Button Bits to create a holiday card. I started out with a white base and covered the card front with chocolate. I added some fun striped basic grey paper, which to me had a warm holiday feel. I die cut the train and stamped it with Ranger walnut stain ink. I colored the train and adhered it to the cream layer. I stamped the Santa from Holiday Button Bits and then stamped the presents from the set and loaded both of them up on the flatbed after I colored them with copics.

The train is adhered with foam squares. I took the cream layer, stamped the sentiment, then created a v-cut with my scissors and layered it on chocolate. Put a threaded double loop on the button and placed it on the edge of the sentiment.

Here is a close up of the train and flatbed....with a little holiday cheer on the back!

and here is a closer look of the sentiment!

This shows that the Train Tracks Set can be quite versatile with your current Papertrey collection! Think of all the fun things you can put on the flatbed....a Christmas Tree, pumpkins in the fall, a turkey for Thanksgiving!!! What would you put on the flatbed? Maybe a bunch of HEARTS with hearts coming out instead of smoke???? Wouldn't that be a CUTE valentine!?!?!

stamps: Train Tracks {available tonight at midnight}
paper: cream, chocolate, basic grey striped designer paper
ink: walnut stain, copics
misc: button, rustic thread, foam squares

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek: Train Tracks day five

2011-04-13T23:59:00.001-04:00

Here is another sneak peek of Train Tracks! This was the first card I created with the stamp set and die.

I stamped the trains after I die cut the train parts. It was easy to line up the train parts on the die cut, then color with copics. I stamped the presents and easily cut those out and placed them on the flatbed. The Happy Birthday sentiment was stamped repeatedly across a strip of stampers select white. The train smoke was stamped directly on the orange zest layer with black ink and then colored with some copics. I added some stickles to the train and the smoke! The trains parts were lined up on top of the sentiment strip and adhered with dimensionals.

stamps: Train Tracks {Papertrey Ink, available 4/15/11}
ink: black, copics
paper: stampers select white, orange zest, kraft
misc: foam squares, stickles, train tracks die
Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

For even more sneak peeks of what is happening at Papertrey Ink this month, check out all the other blogs: Nichole & Dawn are showcasing Melissa's Flower Fusion #3, Think Big Favorites #3 and Maile's Background Basics: Chevron Stripes. Tiffany, Heather, and Lisa will also have someamazing things to share on their blogs today!

Sneak Peek: Train Tracks day four

2011-04-12T23:59:00.001-04:00

Here is another sneek peek of the Train Track set, which comes out on April 15! (That's this weekend!)

This is a simple card with some basic grey paper on a white base. I stamped the train on stampers select white, then colored it in with copics. I put some post-it notes on the edge of each side of the main image and then colored freely with copics around the train image. When I pulled off the post-it notes, it left a nice clean edge.

Both the main image and sentiment are adhered with foam squares. The sentiment is flanked by some double buttons, threaded with bakers twine. I put some stickles on the smoke coming out of the engine! I am sending this card out to my little brother, who found out that he and his wife are having a little boy! YAY! Another little man to even out the troops in the family!

stamps: Train Tracks {Papertrey Ink, available 4/15/11}
ink: black, copics
paper: stampers select white, basic grey
misc: foam squares, stickles, buttons

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

For even more sneak peeks of what is happening at Papertrey Ink this month, check out all the other blogs: Nichole & Dawn are showcasing Melissa's Flower Fusion #3, Think Big Favorites #3 and Maile's Background Basics: Chevron Stripes. Tiffany, Heather, and Lisa will also have someamazing things to share on their blogs today!

Sneak Peek: Train Tracks day three

2011-04-11T23:59:00.002-04:00

I am working on some seriously fun boy color combos now. This one, hawaiian shores, pure poppy and orange zest is a real fun one. I combined it with some great striped patterned paper from Basic Grey.

The sentiment, Choo Choo and Thank You are two separate sentiments from the Train Tracks set, but they go cute together! I colored the train with copics and then added some stickles to the card. I might have gotten a little carried away with the stickles! LOL! A trio of buttons threaded with some red bakers twine completes the card.

stamps: Train Tracks {Papertrey Ink, available 4/15}
paper: pure poppy orange zest, hawaiian shores, ss. white, basic grey
ink: black, copics
misc: buttons, bakers twine (red), stickles

For even more sneak peeks of what is in the works at Papertrey Ink this month, check out all the other blogs: Nichole & Michelle are showcasing Train Tracks & Alpha Blocks today. Melissa is showing Flower Fusion #3, Think Big Favorites #3 and Maile's Background Basics: Chevron Stripes. Tiffany, Heather, and Lisa will also have some amazingly creative little projects to share on their blogs today!

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek: Train Tracks day two

2011-04-10T23:59:00.001-04:00

All Aboard for some Birthday Fun with the new Train Tracks set I created for Papertrey Ink.

Sometimes I have a tough time with masculine cards because I want to use accessories like ribbon to add some fun focal points. I have to remember - NO RIBBON! UGH! Thankfully, I have enough buttons to stretch from here to NYC and back! I decided to go with this fun color combo of new leaf, hawaiian shores and orange zest! The new leaf base was run through the picnic plaid impression plate. I used a strip of hawaiian shores, distressed on the edge and a strip of orange zest, run through the crimper. A trio of buttons with rustic thread under the orange crimped layer. The train was stamped on die cut (yes, this set has a coordinating die) select white cardstock. I stamped in black ink and colored with a variety of copic markers. The trains were adhered with foam squares. The sentiment {All aboard for birthday fun} was stamped in black ink just above the train car. This color combo works really well with this week's CAS114 inspiration on SCS!

I will be blogging more samples this week! Hope you stop by to see some more fun ideas tomorrow!

stamps: Train Tracks {Papertrey Ink, available 4/15}
paper: new leaf, orange zest, hawaiian shores, ss. white
ink: black, copics
misc: buttons, thread, foam squares, die (Train Tracks), crimper, picnic plaid impression plate

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Be sure to swing over to {Nichole's Blog} to see more fun projects with this month's countdown of ALL the Papertrey Ink releases!

Tiffany Pastor will be blogging about her amazing new sets!

Leese Johnson will be sham-wowing you with her new goodies!

Heather Nichols is showing off her new stuff.

The Über talented Maile Belles is showcasing some fun stuff.

And amazing Melissa Bickford is putting Flower Fusion #3 to work with some eye candy!

FS218: bspinks

2011-04-09T23:38:00.010-04:00

I based my card on Becky's card {IC231}.
I love the black and red together, but I wanted to create a more masculine theme, since this month's theme at Papertrey is boys! I found some black and white designer paper which I thought went well with the train set. I used the No. 5 on the engine (you can custom create the train engine number). I thought it would be fun to use the "I think you can" sentiment {Little Engine that could} three times! Would this be a cute card to slip into your child's backpack when they have a big test!

I used some copics to color in the image. I added some black buttons with some red and white bakers twine.

changes:
added buttons
moved sentiment to a strip across front of card
no ribbon
made it more masculine
added designer paper

What do you think of today's peek at the new stamp set! It will be available this month on the 15th at Papertrey Ink.

Be sure to swing over to {Nichole's Blog} to see more fun projects with this month's countdown of ALL the Papertrey Ink releases!

Tiffany Pastor and Betsy Veldman are blogging about Tiffany's amazing new sets!

Leese Johnson always has some amazing things up her sleeves with her phenomenal new sets.

Heather Nichols is showing off some of the ideas she is doing with her new stuff.

The Über talented Maile Belles is wowing us with her new set, Background Basics: Chevron Stripes.

And amazing Melissa Bickford is using Flower Fusion #3 the way Lou Bega shows off Mambo #5 - with PIZZAZ!

stamps: Train Tracks {available 4/15/11 at Papertrey Ink}
paper: Pure Poppy, black, white, designer paper (DCWV)
ink: black, copics
misc: buttons, bakers twine (PTI), dimensionals

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Sneak Peek: Papertrey Ink Train set

2011-04-08T08:40:00.004-04:00

I always wanted to create a set which I could use for my son Xavier! I hate to toot my own horn, but this set came out SO cute! I cannot wait to share more with you over the coming days!

And the best thing about this set - it comes with my first coordinating die to make creating projects ...easy peasy lemon squeezy!

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS217: I scream U scream we all scream

2011-04-02T22:51:00.006-04:00

For Irene! DandI93 is this week's featured stamper. The CAS103 wedding card caught my eye, so I changed the colors, removed the crimped layer, the pearls and changed the butterflies to flowers.

I like the moss and chocolate together, with a hint of white. Super clean looking!
I started with a chocolate base, then I used the fancy flourishes set by Papertrey for the top and bottom edges with chocolate ink on the moss cardstock. I punched out the main image and stamped the flourish with moss ink on the moss layer, then stamped the sentiment on top with chocolate ink. I adhered it to the card with dimensionals. Some velvet flowers (PTI) with brads are adhered with dimensionals as well.

Simple and easy!

stamps: fancy flourishes, inside and out birthday
ink: chocolate, moss
paper: chocolate, moss
misc: brads, dimensionals, velvet flowers, punches.

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS216: Quixotic

2011-03-26T17:05:00.003-04:00

Another weekend, another birthday party...anyone else feel the same way! My kids have more of a social life than I do! LOL! This card is for a little boy in Xavier's class. We went to the Bounce Place in the Mall today for the party! Fun times for little boys!

The card I made was a case for this week's featured stamper, Quixotic (Aka Elaine). She has such amazing coloring abilities, but I found this {magnolia christmas card} stashed deep in her gallery! I thought is was definitely deserving of some love! I changed the colors, stamp set and theme for the card. I also eliminated the ribbon layer and stamped a "break up focal point" instead!

I love blue! I decided that the enchanted evening monochrome look would be a nice way to create the perfect boy card. I used the star stamp from Been Boo'd with snow ink on the enchanted evening base. I did that instead of using the ribbon which Elaine used. Some punched stars with enchanted evening buttons replace Elaine's snowflakes and the main image is stamped in enchanted ink on a spring rain circle punch. I layered that with an enchanted evening punched circle and a white punched circle. There are multiple dimensionals on the circle layer as well as under the stars.

Finally, I used some stickles (you can hardly see them) on the circumference of the spring rain circle. Fun, easy card...very clean and perfect for a birthday boy!

stamps: Been Boo'd, Inside & Out Birthday
ink: fresh snow, enchanted evening
paper: enchanted evening, white, spring rain
misc: dimensionals, punches (circle, star), buttons, stickles

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS215: mbrcutie25

2011-03-19T23:47:00.004-04:00

Based this week's card on Mary Beth's card {cc227}. I changed the patterned paper, stamp set and added buttons!

I used Just Hatched for the sentiment for this baby card. My neighbor just had a baby girl (after 5 years and SEVERAL babies, we have yet to have a boy born in this neighborhood, so I was tickled pink to make a baby girl card).

I used a melon berry base, a strip of basic grey paper and then some punched and die cut butterflies, run through various PTI embossing dies.

I added buttons to the center of the butterflies, and stamped the sentiment in the corner with dark chocolate ink.

stamps: Just Hatched (PTI)
paper: melon berry, white, sweet blush, dark chocolate, basic grey DP
ink: dark chocolate
misc: die cuts, punch (MS), buttons

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS214: bfinlay

2011-03-12T15:45:00.000-05:00

This week's featured stampers is Bridget (bfinlay). The card I selected is her CAS105: Butterfly parade card! So cute! For the changes: I substituted colors, used buttons instead of butterflies and added a sentiment. I also used different embossing folders and distressed the edges of the layers.

I used the color combination of berry sorbet, lemon and spring moss, with a hint of white for this card. A variety of PTI buttons atop a lemon embossed layer, with a stamped sentiment on moss using Inside & Out Birthday. Dimensionals between white and berry sorbet layer.

This card is for my BFF, Debbie! I was not able to get together with her on her actual birthday - but we are going out to a fundraiser tonight! Should be fun!

paper: berry sorbet, lemon, moss, white (papertrey ink)
ink: berry sorbet
stamps: inside & out birthday
misc: buttons (PTI), dimensionals, embossing folders

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS212: Coriefoster

2011-02-26T13:18:00.006-05:00

This week's featured stamper is CorieFoster. I based my card on Corie's {IC219} card.

I changed the colors and stamp set. I used PTI plum pudding and lavender moon cardstock, along with some designer papers from papertrey ink to create this fun random quilted pattern.

I stamped the sentiment (from Inside and Out Birthday) in plum ink. Lavender moon ribbon and a plum button complete the card.

Simple and fun card for a birthday party this weekend...one of the girls in Xavier's class! Happy Birthday Desi!

All supplies ©Papertrey Ink, unless otherwise noted

stamp: Inside & Out Birthday
paper: plum pudding, lavender moon, designer paper
ink: plum pudding
misc: lavender moon ribbon, plum button

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

FS211: Get your groove on!

2011-02-20T09:17:00.003-05:00

This week's featured stamper is Stampgroover (aka Cookie). Here is her {card}. I created this card:

I loved the clean simple style of the card, so I "cased" it using different colors, a different stamp set, and added a few elements.

I started with a kraft base, added the blush layer, which I embossed with the birds and swirls folder. I distressed the edges with a bone folder and sponged the edges with walnut ink. I adhered the blush layer to the kraft base. I die cut the frame and stamped the sentiment, from Inside & Out Birthday, with walnut ink. I adhered it to the card with dimensionals. I added some stickles to the scalloped edges on the die cut frame. I added three pink gems under the frame, and then punched a butterfly with some designer paper scraps. I sponged the edge of the butterfly and added some stickles to the center of it.

It is a clean and simple card, which took about 7 minutes to create. Have a wonderful Sunday...I am enjoying some quiet time with the spectacular six. This is vacation week in NY. We have nothing planned but a little skiing and some swim practices!

stamps: Inside & Out birthday (Papertrey Ink)
ink: walnut stain (ranger)
paper: kraft, blush (PTI), designer paper
misc: frame die cut (PTI), butterfly punch (Martha Stewart), crystal gems (PTI), stickles, dimensionals, birds & swirls folder
Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Hope & Love Ball, 2011

2011-02-13T15:10:00.006-05:00

I took a break this weekend from my featured stamper hostess duties to co-chair a local charitable event for Hannah's Hope Fund. This was the second annual Hope & Love Ball. What a fun evening!

Here I am with my sister, Suzy!

Here I am with my BFF Debbie!

Here is the woman who made last year's "Hope for a Million" grant possible, Doris Buffett, aka The Sunshine Lady. Doris celebrated her 83rd birthday with Hannah and 400 of her newest friends. Thank you Doris, for coming to the event!

Here is my handsome little man, escorting Miss Hannah last night. They are in first grade together this year.

We had an amazing time - thank you to everyone who helped out!

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Papertrey Ink Anniversary Celebration! {Stamp Designers} and a FS card

2011-02-05T23:59:00.003-05:00

Three years ago, I was sitting on pins and needles waiting for Nichole to announce my addition to her Papertrey Family. Somedays, I still have to pinch myself. I cannot believe that I am part of this amazing ride. I have learned so much about design over the past few years and find my style changing a little bit with each stamp set that I design. What is amazing to me, after all this time, is that I can create a stamp set...and once it goes to Nichole and the design team - they bring the stamps to life....that is what makes the customers gasp and squeal with delight!

I am so thankful to be a part of Papertrey. It is so awesome to go into craft stores, flip through a magazine and see my stamp sets in action!

Nichole has the Anniversary Celebration down to a science - and tonight's {spotlight} is on the Stamp Design Team. There were a few changes in the team this year! Maile Belles is the new member of the team, so be sure to stop by her blog {simply stamped} and give her a warm welcome!

The team was challenged to come up with a tag for customers to download. Guess what you could potentially win? {go on....guess} The winner will have the opportunity to be a Papertrey Ink Guest Stamp Designer and work hand-in-hand with Nichole to help conceptualize a set they have always wanted to see come to life. SHAZAM!

{Here} is a link to the download! FUN STUFF!

Here is my creation, which is also based on a card by {3bugs&me}. Lori's card {Tea Party} really caught my eye.

I changed the colors & the stamp (obviously).

White base with a layer of a aqua mist, embossed with the giga guidelines impression plate. I used a variety of punches to create the main image, one it was printed on sweet blush paper. There is a white layer punched with the martha lace edge punch and a sweet blush layer die cut with the papertrey eyelet lace die. The main image was punched with the 1.75 circle punch. That was mounted on a circle of aqua mist and then on a punched scallop circle of white cardstock. The main image is on dimensionals. I put a nice big aqua mist polka dot ribbon on the card! LOVE IT!

I created this image for the Papertrey Ink anniversary celebration because I {LOVE} the sentiment. I feel like I was living an ordinary life when I met Todd twenty five years ago. Now...we are in the midst of a fairytale. Just like in love, my job with Papertrey seems like a fairytale dream. Thank you for sharing the dream with me!

Here are the other incredible ladies that make up the stamp illustration team at Papertrey!

stamp: Free Papertrey Ink digistamp download (by Beth Silaika)
ink: printer
paper: sweet blush, aqua mist, white
misc: giga guidelines impression plate, scalloped edge die, circle punches, martha stewart edge punch, dew drops, dimensionals, ribbon

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

New Look!

2011-02-05T16:54:00.002-05:00

I have a new look for the new year! What do you think?

The supplies link is a smaller version of the large blog banner!

I stayed with the blue and brown color scheme, but updated the colors to Papertrey (Spring Rain and Dark Chocolate).

Looking forward to what you think!

Enjoy every single moment of today!!!!!!

Papertrey Ink Favorites from the past year!

2011-02-05T14:55:00.005-05:00

On of the first stamps released last year in the Freckledandfun line contained the amazing video from Nichole Heady during the Springtime Doodle release. You can see Nicole's post {here}. Watching her coloring bring the stamp to life really made me so happy!

I {loved} what Erin Lincoln did with my Been Boo'd set {here}. FUN!

I adored the elegant fun that Maile Belles had with the {Inside & Out: Birthday} set {here}.

Lisa started the holiday season early with her adorable creations using Tree with Trimmings {here}

The Get to the Point came to life with Heather (aka Pine's) colorful scrapbook page {here}

Here are a few of my favorite cards from the past year!

Those are some of my favorites from the past year! Stay tuned tomorrow for a fun new Anniversary PTI celebration!

FS208: Tillymint

2011-01-29T23:25:00.003-05:00

This week's featured stamper is Sue (Tillymint) and I cased her {Dots Everywhere} card. I used different colors and stamp set, changed the main image shape....

I used the PTI number background die to create this fun pink base, with a little fun edge on the side (using my 5 way cutter). I used the PTI die with white cardstock on the strip across the card. The sentiment (from Get to the Point Sentiments) is stamped in Hibiscus on kraft (also on a PTI die cut). The arrow is from Get to the Point (also with Hibiscus ink, but on white). I trimmed the arrow, added a button with some bakers twine and adhered it with dimensionals.

Finally, I added some stickles to the scalloped areas on the main die cut. NOW THAT IS SOME BIG BIRTHDAY FUN! WE had some Big Birthday Fun at Molly's fifth birthday party! Here is the birthday princess at the Pottery Place! Woohoo! We had fun!

stamps: Get to the point, Get to the point sentiments
ink: hibiscus
paper: white, kraft, hibiscus
misc: pti dies, embossing folders, stickles, button (pti), bakers twine

FS207: Artsy_em

2011-01-23T00:40:00.004-05:00

I love LOVE LOVE the {butterfly} card that Emily created. I decided to create my own version of this adorable card!

The changes from the original card: colors, butterflies are paper, not felt, used stickles, not buttons and bakers twine. Instead of stamping the dotted lines, I used some white rick rack and ran it through the hawaiian shores, avocado and summer sun ink. I used a white base, punched out the butterflies with the MS butterfly punch and adhered the rick rack and butteflies to the card. I used some stickles in the center of the butterflies. The main sentiment is stamped in white ink on hawaiian shores using my new stamp set "Inside & Out Birthday". Used a white gel pen to dot the image.

Stamps: PTI {Inside & Out birthday}
ink: summer sun, hawaiian shores, ripe avocado, white
paper: same
misc: rick rack, stickles, punches, nestabilities, white gel pen

Fs206: Whoistracy

2011-01-15T20:36:00.004-05:00

This week's featured stamper is Tracy {whoistracy}. I liked her Sew Bird card. I changed the main image to a flower and changed the sentiment. I used different patterned paper too.

I used a kraft base like Tracy, but changed the designer paper to some PTI designer paper. Instead of the stamped bird, I used the PTI flower die, spritzed some tattered angels glimmer mist on the card stock and sponged the edges. I added some stickled to the edges of the petals. Each layer of flower was adhered with a dimensional, and a button (PTI, black) was placed in the center. The sentiment, stamped in plum on white, was v-cut on the edge. I tucked it under the patterned paper square.

What I love about this sentiment, it can be used for more than just birthdays! I will keep it in my stash of cards for those everyday celebrations!

stamps: {Papertrey Ink} Inside & Out Birthday
ink: {Papertrey Ink} plum, hibiscus
paper: kraft, white, designer paper (PTI)
misc: button, glimmer mist (pink), button (pti), dimensionals

Sneak Peek: Inside & Out Birthday day five

2011-01-13T23:59:00.003-05:00

Here is another unique color combo that I enjoyed together....spring rain, poppy and dark chocolate. I was playing in the WT305 challenge on SCS (Butterflies). I used the Martha Butterfly punch, white cardstock, colored with copics. I added some amuse card candy gems (blue) and stickles, then attached with dimensionals to the card. Happy Birthday sentiment from the new stamp set coming out January 15 (Inside & Out Birthday), from Papertrey Ink.

I used the big scallop die (papertrey) and a big spring rain PTI button, along with some PTI poppy polka dot ribbon. Fun combo!

Check out some of the other designers goodies on their blogs:
Dawn McVey
Maile Belles
Lisa Johnson
Melissa Bickford
Heather Nichols
& Nichole Heady!

stamps: Inside & Out: Birthday {Papertrey Ink}
paper: white, poppy, spring rain, chocolate
ink: black
misc: poppy ribbon, spring rain button, die, dimensional, stickles, MS butterfly punch, amuse gems

Sneak Peek: Inside & Out Birthday day four

2011-01-12T23:59:00.001-05:00

FUN FUN FUN! I am loving the comments and feedback on the Inside & Out: birthday set! Thank you for your comments! Today's card is so simple, yet elegant. I was grabbing cardstock and thought these colors looked so beautiful together. The chocolate and melon berry! Oh yeah! That's what I'm talking about!

I stamped the sentiment and die cut it with a nestablities die. The chocolate was dry pressure embossed with the birds & swirls folder. I added a row of dew drops on the bottom.

Here is a fun little bonus card today, using the birthday tag set.

The new leaf base was stamped with a flower design from Springtime Doodles in new leaf ink. There is a layer of scalloped hawaiian shores paper under the kraft piece of cardstock. I did some paper piercing on the edge of the kraft. The hawaiian shores ribbon is cut in a nice V-cut on the edge. The tag was stamped with new leaf and black ink.

melon & chocolate birthday

stamps: inside & out: birthday
paper: dark chocolate, white, melon berry
ink: black
misc: ribbon, dimensionals, bird & swirls embossing folder, dew drops

New Leaf Birthday Tag card

stamps: 2011 Birthday Tags, Springtime Doodles
paper: new leaf, kraft, hawaiian shores, white
ink: new leaf, black
misc: hawaiian shores ribbon, circle punch, scalloped edge die, paper piercing

You know that there is more eye candy out there:

Check out these blogs:

Dawn McVey
Maile Belles
Lisa Johnson
Melissa Bickford
Heather Nichols
& Nichole Heady!

Sneak Peek: Inside & Out Birthday day three

2011-01-11T23:59:00.004-05:00

Hello Papertrey Fans! Here we are on day 3 of the sneak peeks....can you believe it? What do you think so far? FUN STUFF?

Today, I decided to play with a fun color combo: Dark Chocolate and Hawaiian Shores. The sentiment is from the Inside and Out: Birthday set and the image is from the Through the Trees set. The Hawaiian shores cardstock was cut with the scalloped edge die and I placed some papertrey buttons on each scallop.

Simple and fun! Love this sentiment too! It's one of my favorites!

Be sure to check out the other Papertrey Designer blogs: Nichole along with Betsy Veldman, Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols & Melissa Bickford, the beautiful & talented Lisa Johnson and my new friend Maile Belles have some amazing stuff to showcase!

stamps:{Papertrey Ink} Inside & Out: Birthday, Through the Trees
paper: dark chocolate, hawaiian shores, white
ink: dark chocolate, black
misc: scalloped edge die (large), buttons (PTI)

Going Green!

2011-01-11T22:25:00.004-05:00

This is the year that Todd and I are going to reduce our carbon footprint. Together, we decided that we needed to do something, so we researched installing solar panels in the backyard. We put in a large panel, which is the perfect for our size home, with enough extra to actually send back to the power company. Today there was an article published in the local paper. Here is an online version:
{Solar Panel Article}

I find myself walking around the house shutting off lights and trying to conserve energy. Have you thought of ways to help reduce your carbon footprint?

144 solar panels, a bunch of steel and some engineers!

Sneak Peek: Inside & Out Birthday day two

2011-01-10T23:59:00.002-05:00

Here is a fun, simple card! I used Lemon Tart cardstock (when my Genevieve sees it she shouts "YELLOW!!!" ....it's her favorite color!). I am not a yellow girl....I prefer blues....so we compromised and went with a little of both! I stamped the flower from Springtime Doodles in fresh snow (white) ink and sprinkled the ink with glitter while it was still wet. Sentiment stamped in ocean tides ink. I used a PTI button with some rustic thread and used the edge of the fillable frames #3 to create a unique cut on the side of the sentiment.

Isn't it a simple, yet elegant look? Here is a close up on the sentiment and button.

There are going to be more sneak peeks available on the other designers websites:

check out Nichole's Blog along with Betsy Veldman, Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols & Melissa Bickford

all supplies Papertrey Ink unless otherwise noted

stamps: Inside & Out birthday, Springtime doodles (flower background)
paper: lemon tart, white
ink: fresh snow, ocean tides
misc: fillable frames #3 die, button, rustic thread, glitter (Stampin' Up!)

Sneak Peek: Inside & Out Birthday day one

2011-01-09T23:59:00.007-05:00

Here we are in the midst of another Papertrey Ink countdown. I still can hardly believe that I am part of this amazing company! {someone pinch me}

I not only have an amazing new birthday set coming out, but the team came together to create an awesome birthday tag set which is being released this month as well! EYE CANDY OVERLOAD!

This color scheme was so out of my comfort zone, but I have been finding the most cute clothes for Sophia, Isabella, Genevieve & Xavier at Gymboree lately (the older two are too tall for that store, shucks!). I got each of them a variety of {fashionista} outfits in stripes, argyle and solids using the raspberry, chocolate and moss color scheme. I got them all dressed for church in the outfits and realized that it would make an ADORABLE card color combo!

I started with a raspberry base, then added the chocolate and moss. The moss is stamped with the stars from Been Boo'd in moss ink. I added some dark chocolate polka dot ribbon to the card too. The sentiment was stamped on white, then cut with the Papertrey Ink fillable frames #3 die. I punched a variety of stars using the star punch and placed them on dimensionals, topping them off with some papertrey buttons.

all supplies from Papertrey Ink unless otherwise noted
stamps: Inside & Out Birthday, Been Boo'd (multi-star background)
paper: white, raspberry, dark chocolate, spring moss, designer paper (2008 bitty dot)
ink: raspberry, spring moss
misc: dark chocolate ribbon (polka dot), star punch, buttons (raspberry, chocolate, moss), fillable frames #3 die, medium scalloped border die

WAIT! Don't GO! Check out more sneak peeks available on the other designers websites:

check out Nichole's Blog along with Betsy Veldman, Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols & Melissa Bickford

FS205: UKJem

2011-01-08T22:51:00.004-05:00

Have you seen UKJem's gallery - It is full of GEMS! WOW! I created this card based on Julie's {CAS74 Celebration} card. I made a few changes. I created my flower and leaves with punches and a button and used buttons instead of card candy. I used a different embossing folder and added a sentiment on it.
Let's talk about this flower! I used the SU! petal punch on some white paper that I spritzed with glimmer mist, then sponged the edges with hibiscus ink. Each layer of the flower had dimensionals on it to really give it some life. The button in the center is the final detail! I used a varriety of white, plum, hibiscus and moss buttons on the flower. The dry embossing folder was birds and swirls, and the sentiment is from Through the Trees (PTI) with plum ink.

stamps: PTI (sentiment, Through the trees)
paper: white, moss
ink: plum, hibiscus (PTI)
misc: buttons, glimmer mist, dimensionals

Sneak Peek: Inside & Out Birthdays

2011-01-06T08:38:00.002-05:00

This month, my stamp set Inside & Out Birthdays is going to be released. I am thrilled because I create so many birthday cards, I love to have sentiments available for cards. I think you are going to love the combination of fun, whimsical fonts which I used for this set! You will find yourself reaching for it over and over, and the ability to combine it with image stamps from your Papertrey collection will make it OH SO VERSATILE!

Stay tuned this week for samples featuring Inside & Out Birthdays! And check out Nichole's blog for more sneak peeks!

fs204: WhiteRockMama & THANK YOU!

2011-01-01T22:03:00.005-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR! A HUGE THANKS to EVERYONE who voted (these past two months). Hannah's Hope Fund finished the month of December at NUMBER ONE (BoooYAH!) in the Pepsi Refresh Challenge - official results to be known on January 3. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping my friends Matt & Lori! You can read more {here} about their unofficial win! We hope to get the official word on Monday!

This week's inspiration card is by WhiteRockMama, the featured stamper. Marisa created this {PPA inspiration} card, which I loved. I loved the elegance of the gold and white, but changed the card slightly, adding more gold, some dry embossing and removed changed the gold cord & white ribbon use, and finally eliminated brads.

I used some fun gold paper, dry pressure embossed with swiss dots. I used the Wedding Day stamp set from Papertrey ink for the main image (I used Marisa's wreath as inspiration to my medallion). There are multiple layers of stamped and punched images, with the gold scalloped edge being topped off with stickles on each scallop. Sentiments stamped in dark chocolate (PTI) ink and the flourished from the Wedding Day set were stamped in gold ink. There is a faint sheer white polka dot ribbon strip with a gold cord strip right above the white scalloped layer. This card was made for Chelsea and Colby's wedding, which took place this week. We were honored to be invited. Chelsea was one of our first babysitters, and she found love at BYU! All the best C&C!

stamps: Wedding day (PTI)
ink: gold, dark chocolate
paper: gold, white
misc: nestabilities, dimensionals, stickles, dies (PTI, scalloped edge), swiss dots folder, gold cord, white ribbon (may arts)

fs203: LeisaJane

2010-12-25T16:40:00.002-05:00

Please take the time to vote for Hannah's Hope Fund. They fell from #1 yesterday. We need to make a holiday miracle for the Sames family. It only takes a moment to vote and you would be doing such a great thing for a friend of mine! THANK YOU!

#1: Vote on the Pepsi Refresh site:

http://www.refresheverything.com/hannahshope

#2: Vote on the Pepsi site using your Facebook account.

Close your browser and re-open it.

Click: http://www.refresheverything.com/hannahshope

Click "Vote For This Idea."

Click Login with your Facebook Account.

Click on the "Vote for This Idea" button.

#3: Vote on Facebook at:

http://apps.facebook.com/pepsirefresh/idea/view/id/4acec35e-713a-102d-a17f-0019b9b9e205

#4: Use your cell phone to text your vote.

Text the message: 104051 to 73774. (73774 is the numeric translation for PEPSI.)

#5: Use your iPhone to text your vote.

Download the App at iTunes.

Here is a great masculine holiday card I made for Victoria's teacher. I used it as the class gift card. It was based on LeisaJane's card {here}. I changed the colors and stamp set, added buttons and some DPE.

I used my Winter Swirls stamp set sentiment and used the large and small snowflake punches. Snowflakes were adhered with dimensionals and some stickles were placed on each snowflake. I added some PTI buttons to the center of the card.

stamps: Winter Swirls (PTI)
paper: white, avocado, designer paper (PTI), spring moss
ink: avocado
misc: dimensionals, stickles, buttons (PTI), swiss dots DPE folder, snowflake punches