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Tuesday, May 31, 2016

The Last Day...And what? Another giveaway?

It's arrived.  The last day to order from the 2015-2016 Stampin' Up! annual catalog and Occasions Catalog.  I am going to miss a lot of things that will no longer be available...and to share in that, I thought I would share with you a stamp set that was available, only for a limited time.  I made this card, and even demonstrated it at a stampin' party, but never before shared on my blog.  The stamp set was called, Pedal Pusher, and was one of the Sale-a-bration sets.  Since I happened to order a 2nd one, I thought I would give that one away!  Leave a comment here, or at my facebook page, and you are entered.  If you place an order through my site tonight, May 31, 2016, I am sending you out a special something extra.



This stamp set is photo-polymer and works with acrylic blocks for stamping the images.  As you can see, the images stamp strong and clear with sharp images.

I can't begin to tell you how excited I am that tomorrow we all get to order from the new 2016-2017 annual catalog!  I am very happy to get to share with you many fun products...starting tomorrow!  Please come back!  And remember to comment here today, so you can have this lovely set.  It really was my favorite from the Sale-a-bration catalogs.

Saturday, May 28, 2016

More Butterflies!

I am going camping for the Memorial Day Weekend with my family, so won't post anything tomorrow or Monday, but I will try to be back on Tuesday.  And lest we forget....Tuesday is the very last day to order anything retiring from our 2015-2016 catalog.  And then....we can start celebrating with our brand new catalog on Wednesday.  I have my list all ready...well, that's not completely true, because I have changed it so many times!  I will provide a link to the new catalog on Wednesday as well, so you can view it via pdf file.  Of course, if you'd like an actual catalog, contact me and I can send you one.  I will only charge you my cost, plus shipping and handling, priority mail.  And, unfortunately, I can only ship within the United States.

So, I don't have a new project, but I do have additional cards like the one I shared yesterday with slight variations in colors.  I used Blushing Bride, the new Emerald Envy and Sweet Sugarplum.


So now, I am back to my 1st attempt at fishing.  Everyone at work was laughing at me for never having fished before.  Honestly, it's never been something I've been particularly interested in....but it's fun to try new things.  It can't always be butterflies and pearls,  Right?

Friday, May 27, 2016

Happy Friday and a Little Thank you!

Today I will announce the winner of the new set of Stampin' Write Markers.  But, first I wanted to share a card I made this morning that I absolutely love.  I wish I could say this was my original idea, but I copied it from another person whose cards are so pretty and she does wonderful tutorials that inspire me to try a little harder to make my projects special too. So credit goes to Areli!  :)

This card showcases the new In color, Peek-a-boo Peach.  I combined this with the color Sahara Sand and Very Vanilla Card stock.  As you can see, there were a lot of layering of textures with the same color.  I can't wait to make this same card in other colors.





And now, as I mentioned yesterday, I took everyone's name and numbered their entries from 1-44.  If there was a double post in the same day, I only counted it once, to keep things fair.  If you didn't win this time, please come back, and soon, because as promised, there will be more fun giveaways coming up.  I love to share and give to those that take the time to come and visit me at this blog.  So I am happy to announce the winner, as chosen by Random Generator is:
Mary Cox


I truly want to thank everyone that participated in my giveaway.  I realize I had some that came every single day and left a comment and that means so much to me that you took the time out of your day to do this.



Thursday, May 26, 2016

And the winner is....

Going to be revealed tomorrow!

Yes, yes, I know.  That was sort of tricky, but I am writing this on the evening of the 26th, and I want to count any last minute entries up until  Midnight tonight.  This will give me a day to pull up a random generator and make it all fair.  Just, for integrity sake, I counted entries in the order the comments were added to my blog.  I also counted Facebook comments on my group page.  If you are on facebook, and would like to be added to my facebook group, please join us at: Shelley Bean

So, in the meantime, I thought I would share a fun 3-D project featuring the Baker's Box Thinlit Dies.  I love this die set.  To start with, it makes an adorable little box that reminds me of a little milk carton from my elementary school days.  But second, look at all the accessory pieces come with it.

 For my creation today, I used the scalloped circle and made a window in my box with a window sheet screen.  I used some of the new designer series papers (available June 1st). The flower is from the die set Rose Garden.  This paper has some matching washi tape that I used to stripe the banner.



So, lest I forget to mention, once again....time is running out to order items that will not be available after May 31st.  Here again, are the links to those retiring products in a format that makes them easy to view.  Check the list and make sure you don't miss anything you will wish you had once it's no longer available.




Wednesday, May 25, 2016

More Swirly Bird Stamps---Last Day to Enter the Drawing!

Here it is...May 25th.  That means, it's the last day to enter in my drawing for the FREE set of Stampin' Write Markers.  (retail price is $15.00)  Leave a comment today and you get TWO entries into the drawing as a bonus.  May 25th is/was my sweet mother's birthday, so the extra entry is from her.  Of course, if you missed a day between now and May 14th, feel free to go back and give yourself an extra advantage.


Today, I wanted to share with you another card I made with the soon available Swirly Bird Stamp Set.  This is what the set looks like:
Here is the post where I shared another card made with this set earlier.  Swirly Bird

And here are a couple thank you cards I made this morning before work.  I used the new paper, Flirty Flamingo, gold foil paper and gold heat embossing,  I think the colors look wonderful together.  And how about the new rouched ribbon?  This will also be available in all the new color choices.  I love the way this ribbon looks and the texture it adds.  I also wanted you to be aware how perfectly the paper, ribbon and the  Stampin' Write marker pictured above match each other.  The papers, inks, pens, ribbons...all match so well and the pigments are true.  It really helps to create that put together look that makes our cards and projects so special.


Here is a slight variation to the same idea, only I ruffled the rouched ribbon just a little bit to give it a little something different.



Please leave a comment on today's posts.....and get an extra entry point in the drawing,  That's 2 for the effort of 1!  :)  And just for your information...I have a lot of items tucked away in my stash to use as upcoming blog giveaways.  Please come back and visit often so you don't miss out on these special opportunities.

Also, please remember....next Tuesday is the absolute last day you can order from the retired items list, the occasions catalog and the 2015 catalog.  If you were interested in a bundle that was offered for 15% off, or a special set that is going away...perhaps even the retiring 2014-2016 in colors...(I will so miss Lost Lagoon)...this is your very last day to order them.  If I can help in any way, or answer any questions, don't hesitate to email me.  Additionally, if I can be your Stampin' Up! demonstrator, I would be honored to fill that role.  If you are able to make an order of $150 or more, you will be able to order extra items for free!  (There is an amazing opportunity in June...but more about that later...)

I will announce our winner tomorrow...stay tuned.

Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Oh Happy Day~ Card Kit

With only 1 more day left in the opportunity to enter into my giveaway, I thought I would share with you a special item that will become available June 1st.  The Oh Happy Day Card Kit was available for pre-order only for the demonstrators that attended On Stage this past April.  I haven't always been a fan of card kits, I must confess, I like building cards from the bottom up with materials I have on hand, but these little kits are pretty fun.  This particular one reminds me a little bit of the Valentine's cards we used to give and get when I was a child.  But this is that for big girls!  :)

I decided to make a video to share with you that features this kit.  Enjoy, :)



Here is a sample of some of the cards I created.  The kit makes 20 different and individual cards.  No two are the same.




There is only 1 more day....get your comment in to enter.  Remember, you can go back all the way to the 14th of May to add entries by simply leaving a comment.  I am happy to send one lucky winner a brand new set of the In-Color Stampin' Write markers.


Monday, May 23, 2016

Moroccan Nights - New Stamp Set

As we are winding down to the final days of our drawing, I thought I would share with you another new stamp set that will be available June 1st!  Moroccan Nights!  And not only this stamp set is new, but also the fantastic Copper Embossing Powder!



The large medallion is quite lovely, with it's intricate pattern, and don't you think the embossing really captures the detail so well?  I used Night of Navy and Basic Black for my base paper colors.  You might notice a little sliver of a super special copper embossed paper peeking out behind as well, and that is from one of the new Designer Series Paper packs called, Affectionately Yours.


On the inside of the card, I displayed the other stamps available in this collection.  Can you think of some fun ideas for this set?


 Only a few more days left to enter into my drawing for a free, fun set of the new In-Color Stampin' Write Markers.  If you have never used these pens before, they are very special with their dual-tipped ends; a fine line and a brush tip.  They also match perfectly with the coordinating paper and ink pads in the same color.


Sunday, May 22, 2016

Let's Talk Paper Pumpkin

Paper Pumpkin is a crafting subscription kit that is mailed out directly to your home.  For only around $20 a month, you will receive everything you need to complete a project.  And when I say, a project, it can be anything from cards to gift packaging to a 3-D project.  Every month it's something different and every month it's a surprise when it arrives in your mailbox.  I thought I would share the Paper Pumpkin I received in April and how I completed it.


This cute little wreath came as a complete project to make from start to finish.  It went together in about 30 minutes and when completed, I still was left with a stamp set and a little ink square.  In addition to this project, a 2nd stamp collection was included as a bonus, and I made this delightful birthday card.  If you are interested in signing up for this fun subscription, Please follow this link


Here are some examples of previous Paper Pumpkin kits that have arrived in my mail box.  I think you could agree this is a very fun way to grow your stamp collections and inks while learning step by step along the way.  There is even a fun YouTube channel that has tutorials on each kit.  Also, there are 1000's of other tutorials from Paper Pumpkin users that have redefined how they choose to create with their kits.  Check it out:  Paper Pumpkin YouTube Channel


Past Kits




Saturday, May 21, 2016

Graduation!

Hi Everyone!  I was asked by a co-worker to create a card for her daughter that is graduating with her doctorate degree.  I honestly haven't even made a High School graduation card, which is interesting since I have had 4 sons graduate from High School and 2 of those also graduated from college.  I think that makes me a lazy mom!  But, I digress...

The school colors are purple and gold, so I created 3 cards and she can pick whichever one she wants to use.

The colors I decided to use were Elegant Eggplant and Crushed Curry.  In some instances I opted for actual gold foil paper, or glitter paper.  I also used some gold heat embossing on some of the cards.


The stamp set used to embellish this card was Timeless Textures.  I thought it might be interesting to add some filigree and layering to make an old fashioned looking design.  I used the new banner bunch and the graduation sentiment is included in the stamp set that accompanies the banner punch.  I also added a few sequins and did some gold heat embossing,


After I created this card, I decided it would probably be a good idea to try some other card ideas that go in totally different directions of style.


When I made this card, I was thinking of a more traditional graduation card with bold numbers.  Of course following the theme of gold, I opted to cut them from Glitter Paper using the Large Number Framelits, and a little feminine touch by using stamps from Number of Years stamp set that goes along with the framelits.  I thought the flower bunches stamped in Elegant Eggplant over the coordinating paper would make it subtle, and the flowers embossed in gold would help it retain some elegance.

With this last card, I decided to go more contemporary with bold lines and splashes of color.  The stamping was done with the Gorgeous Grunge stamp set and the sentiment was stamped with a stamp from Happy Happenings.  The stars were cut with the Stars thinlit dies.



So, I would love opinions.  Which card would you choose?  And by the way....she couldn't choose; she wanted all 3 of them!

Don't forget, every comment you leave on any post from 5/14/2016 through 5/25/2016 will enter you into the drawing for a brand new set of the new Stampin' Write Markers that feature the new in-colors for 2016-2018.

Friday, May 20, 2016

Swirly Bird Stamp Set

Here is another fun card to share with you.  The name of the set doesn't give enough credit to the versatility it can give.  Swirly Bird was a set I wasn't sure I was convinced that I needed, but I decided since it was available to me on the new catalog pre-order, I should give it a go.  Here is the card I created...and not a swirly bird in sight.
I used the new Dapper Denim Ink and paper to contrast with the Pool Party Paper.  I have decided I really like these two together.  Along with those I added a touch of Pink Pirouette, So Saffron and Crumb Cake.  Did you also notice the label for the sentiment?  There are some fabulous new dies in straight and scallop edges.  Squares, circle and hearts.  Oh, and do you like the swirly seas for my little boats to sail on?  This is part of the die cut set, Swirly Scribbles, that goes perfectly with the Swirly Bird stamp set.  And if that doesn't overwhelm you enough, the sentiment is from a new stamp set that will also be available:  Layering Love.

I should have created one of the fun bird and swirly cards that shows of the quirky, fun feel of this set, but all in good time!



These little boats make me smile.

Thursday, May 19, 2016

A Fancy Hello

As  I was looking through my camera, I came upon this photo of a card I took awhile back, and then never blogged.  It's timely that I do because some of these items are retiring on May 31st.  If you are interested in the following items, please follow the link to order them now.  Currently, any order from me over $30 will entitle you to a brand new catalog that I will personally mail out to you at no extra charge.  This catalog is fantastic too...I wish I could share it now.

To order the stamp set in this project that are retiring, follow this link:
  • Beautiful Bunch

To order other retiring items used on this card, follow this link:
  • Neutrals Candy Dots
  • Fun Flower Punch
Both of these links will take you to a visual look at everything that is expiring and no longer available after May 31st.






Don't forget to enter in my drawing for a giveaway!  Just leave a comment below!


Wednesday, May 18, 2016

My May Swap Card

This month, I was asked to manage our Stampin' Up groups, Team Swap.  I was honored to be ask.  This month the theme was "Thank You", and so I got busy creating my card early.  I realized this morning that I hadn't shown it yet.  So, if you are reading this and you are in my group, now you know ahead of time!


It's a fairly simple card, but when you have to make multiples of anything, it's sometimes easier to keep it simple.  I have used some inking, punching and fussy cutting to get this one done.  The background paper and stamping were done with the new Sweet Sugarplum color.  I also used the new color, Dapper Denim for the flowers and tag.  The stamp set used for the background, is one of my favorites, Timeless Textures.  The flowers are from the set, Flower Shop, and the tag is from Awesomely Artistic.  Because I wanted a sentiment that fit into the tag that was a thank you, I used my stamp-a-ma-jig, and used the thanks from the Crazy About You set.  Wow, that was a lot of different stamp sets, but I am happy with the way it came out.  Oh, and lest I forget, the background strip was from the paper stack, Playful Palette.  Whew, that was a lot!

Don't forget, leave a comment here and be entered in my giveaway.  If you add comments on other recent posts, that gives you more entries!




Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Just a Little Note

I was playing around with some of the new stamp sets and papers the other morning and I decided to make some little gift cards.  You know, those ones you can attach to a gift package, or gift bag.  The ones that are little and simple and often get tossed out with the trash after someone is done opening all their presents?  (I hope no one tosses my cards away, but the chance is a reality!).

I cut these cards out of the thick Whisper White, (my favorite to use for a card base) at 3" x 6".  This makes a perfect gift card size.  They are so cute and small when completed, they don't really require an envelope.


The paper is new in the upcoming catalog.  I complimented it with some Blushing Bride cardstock as well.  The new color is called Sweet Sugarplum.  Isn't it pretty?  The paper stack shown here is called Playful Palette.  I have a fun project coming up soon using this and a new stamp set.  So stay tuned.

How do you like that cute banner?  This is a new stamp set and coordinating Punch that are going to be available June 1st.  So many fun things to share!!

Leave a comment on this post, or any previous posts back to 5/14/2016, or upcoming posts up to 5/25, and you could win these brand new Stampin' Write Markers.  They include this lovely Sweet Sugarplum color!






Monday, May 16, 2016

In The Meadow

Today I thought I would share a card I made for a friend.  These kind of cards are never easy to make and yet have an important place when sending a message to someone you care about.

The stamp set I used, I am happy to say is carrying over from the Occasions catalog and will be included in the new annual catalog you are able to order from in June.  So, that means, it is available for purchase now.

In the Meadow is a versatile stamp set.  At first glance, I thought it was a one trick pony, but I have made 2 cards with it, so far, and you can see they are very different.  If you want to look at the other card, you can check that out here.  To make this card I stamped the mountains 2 times so that it appeared to be a continuation.  I then stamped some flowers and grass in the foreground, to give the illusion of distance between the two.  I went back and forth trying to decide if I should make the meadow in the middle, a meadow, or a lake.  I really think I could have done it both ways.  But, that's for another day.


After the images were stamped, I decided to layer colors in the sky with a sponge to give the card a subtle and yet almost realistic depth.  I think if I squint just right, I see some cloud formations and realism there.  I used the same technique to add color to the meadow.  I will add all the colors I used to the bottom of my post today.


For the mountains, I used a blender pen to pick up color and then painted color on.  I decided that my light source would be coming from the right, and that is also how the artist drew it, so I concentrated darker colors there and left the right side lighter.  I then used the same method to add color to the grass and flowers in the foreground.  Because the palette was mostly greens and browns, I wanted to add a little pop of color here and there, so using some of the Stampin' Right markers, I added little pops of colors.  The last effect I added, which I believe finished off the card nicely, was I used a white gel pen and highlighted the flowers, the right side of the mountains and a smattering across the meadow.  They have discontinued this pen from the new catalog, which I find unfortunate, so if you like that effect as much as I do, I would recommend purchasing one from your local craft store.

I would be interested to know what you would like me to post in the future.  Do you want video tutorials, photo tutorials, or any other ideas to share what I created?  Let me know!  And don't forget, any comment left here or on future posts up to May 25th, will enter you into a drawing for a brand new set of the new in-color Stampin' Write Markers.  You can read about that, HERE.

Saturday, May 14, 2016

Sitting Here---And thinking about a giveaway!

Happy Saturday!  I have another card to share with you today.  I got my inspiration from a combination of a few cards I saw on Pinterest.  This card showcases a new stamp set that you can order from the 2016-2017 annual catalog.  The stamp set is called Sitting Here.

The set actually showcases a full hanging bench, but I trimmed some off the side and detached the swing part of the stamped image to form a leg for the bench.  I think it works pretty good.  This set also includes a few other items that can be used to take the theme further.  I do think this is a lovely set.

I created a background wall using the brick texture folder and some of the Indigo Island designer series paper for the rug under the bench.  The cards stock used additionally is Whisper White and Crumb Cake.  I used some of the blender pens to work in the inks to make it a little bit water colored.



Now....how about a giveaway?  The prize is pretty awesome!  Now through May 25th, for every comment left at my blog from this day until the 25th, on any post...you are added into the drawing.  So, you may question...what if I comment on all posts leading up to the winner announced May 25th?  Each time you comment, you are entered again.  Pretty cool?!  Tell your friends and come back often.

Here is the prize:


A complete set of the BRAND NEW Pens... in colors for 2016-2018.  Dapper Denim, Peek-a-boo Peach, Flirty Flamingo, Emerald Envy and Sweet Sugarplum! ( Due to restrictions I am not able to mail this out to the winner until June 1st. )

So come and visit often to increase your chances!!

Friday, May 13, 2016

You Are Awesome

This is the coolest stamp set.  It was free giveaway at OnStage and so much fun and versatile.  It can be all occasion, birthday or party invitations.  It's called Marquee Messages and I love it.  For my sample today, I layered some colors (Crushed Curry, Melon Mamba, and Island Indigo), and made shaker cards!  I adorned the marquee with some bling to give it a bit more WOW factor.



You may notice the confetti sprinkles in this shaker card.  That's a little sneak peek of a new punch that will be available in the new catalog!

I can't wait for everyone to get their hands on this one.


Don't forget to take the opportunity and look over the retiring products.  You can order them until May 31st, 2016.  After that, all gone.  I would be happy to be your Stampin' Up demonstrator.  Follow the links above or shoot me an email with any questions you have.  If you purchase from me before May 31st, I will send you a free copy of the new catalog.  

And should you want to get your hands on all the new products before anyone else, and also get future purchases for 20% off, join my team!  There are more incentives than this; give me the opportunity to fill you in!

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Mother's Day

I will confess, Mother's Day is a little rough for me.  It's always been that way a bit because I have great sons, who I know love me dearly, but they are terrible about remembering me on my birthday or Mother's Day.  Every year I set myself up to think it will be different this year and they will show their adoration appropriately....but I shouldn't do that because it'll only lead me to a little sorry for myself party by the end of the day.  Since my own mother died, it's been even harder, because I would like to get the opportunity to talk with her again and tell her I love her.  

This year, and previously, I have tried to counteract Mother's Day blahs, by make a few cards to give to my Daughters in law.  It helps me feel like I am participating with the holiday in some small way.  This year, I decided to make a card to tell them I appreciate them for the beautiful grandchildren they have given me.


I am using some new designer series paper not yet available, but soon will be June 1st.  Additionally I have used some new layering dies also available June 1st.  What IS available I will list at the bottom of my post.


I thought the butterflies were cheerful and reminded me of springtime.  I hope you like it as well!