queenofscraps

Summer Mini Supplies

2012-01-23T18:11:00.002+13:00

Best wishes for a new year of creative goodness in 2012! I am back from holidays/camp duties and ready to craft. Check back soon for some new projects.

I hope you are enjoying the inspiration in the latest Stampin' Up! summer mini catalogue. If you are wondering which particular stamp set or colour combination are used in a project, here is a handy link to the supplies list.

If you would like your own summer mini, just email me with your address, and I will post you your own copy.

Welcome to Summer...and Christmas is Coming!

2011-12-01T17:07:00.000+13:00

1 December is here and that's exciting for two reasons in my household...

today we'll be hauling out the decorations and putting up the Christmas tree and my kitchen will be smelling of Christmas baking for the first time this season.
the Stampin' Up summer mini catalogue is now available for ordering!

Tomorrow (Friday 2 December) is my monthly card and crop night: still spaces if you want to work on finishing (or starting) your handmade cards and projects. Please email me to book or phone on 09 576 6807

I have been resisting, but I have decided to order some of Simply Adorned range (page 7 in the mini) to make some special gifts... if you would like to learn how to make a unique charm for a bracelet, necklace or key chain, just contact me and we can arrange a special one-on-one tutorial. In this one hour class you can make a personalised necklace charm and finish it off with chain and gift box for only $60. Contact me to discuss other options. I can't wait for my supplies to arrive now!

Spring into the New Catalogue

2011-09-01T07:45:00.002+12:00

A great day for new beginnings: the first official day of spring and the launch of the new Stampin' Up! Catalogue. So much awesomeness to share with you over the next days. But number one is letting you know that all the new products are now available to order: you can see the catalogue online here: or better yet get a hard copy in your hands. How? there are 4 ways, and three of them are free!

place an order of $150 with me and get one for free
book a workshop with me: all my hostesses receive an Ideas Book as one of my hostess gifts
order a new Ideas Book (postage paid) for only $12.50 RR $15.95
come to my catalogue launch party on next week (Friday 9 September) and you will not only get to see and touch the new catalogue, but also featured projects using new products, and the chance to make a small project, all free of charge. RSVP please

Last year's Ideas...

2011-08-16T07:58:00.000+12:00

I know that some people don't have the current 2011 Ideas Book (the one that expires at the end of this month). To help you out, below are the page numbers in the previous year's Idea Book of items currently discounted. If you want to get the new Ideas Book - and from my sneak peak, believe me you do!- there are three ways: and two of them are free!

place an order of $100 with me before the end of August 2011
book a workshop with me: all my hostesses receive an Ideas Book as one of my hostess gifts
order a new Ideas Book (postage paid) for only $12.50

Page number in the 2009-2010 catalogue

· Silver styled Hodegpodge hardware on page 149 40% off, now only $42.30

· Daisy Dash Jumbo Stampin Wheel page 97 40% off now $11.70

· Tart and Tangy stamp set page 104 25% off now $20.21

· Eastern Blooms stamp set on page 76 25% off now $35.96

· Basic Phrases stamp set on page 117 25% off now $53.21

Say Goodbye...

2011-08-01T22:27:00.001+12:00

Gifted Stamp Set Now 40% off

One of my most used stamps last Christmas was “Gifted”. It looks good just stamped in one colour to quickly make a batch of gift cards. Add a little more detail using a couple of markers for selective colour. Or go all the way to a full-sized greeting card.

Sadly it is retiring from the Stampin’ Up! Catalogue at the end of August... but the good news is that it is 40% off while stocks last, now only $28.77 for the clearmount option. You can also pick up the coordinating paper Jolly Holiday for only $12.30! That's just over $1 a sheet for double-sided paper: great value!

I will be featuring the stamp set Gifted in my Christmas Card Buffet this month, so register now to get some great ideas and 10 beautiful handmade cards. Pre-order Gifted stamp set and Jolly Holiday paper (by 13 August) and attend the class for half price.

Morning Sail

2011-07-21T08:17:00.002+12:00

Here is another a la Carte stamp from the current mini: Sail Away. Great for masculine cards and a very friendly price. In this version I punched a mask and sponged 3 colours of ink to give the dramatic sun.
A little tip: my trimmer blade was getting blunt when I cut out the image and left a furry edge: I used the edge of my scissors to distress the edges and make it look like it was meant to be that way! I think it suits this card style.

Razzle Dazzle Razzleberry

2011-07-19T06:00:00.003+12:00

Hope you enjoyed my sparkly blossoms yesterday: I got carried away with myself and after a lot of mucking about managed to mask and stamp the blossoms with longer stems (see my cheat's method in the Christmas Card yesterday). I used the Boho Blossoms punch again with rich Razzleberry, distressing the petals and sponging with Bravo Burgundy. The punches are layered with a silver brad, which I then painted with crystal effects and dipped into dazzling diamonds glitter. I also re-stamped the blossoms in razzleberry and punched out the letters spelling "hello" with a 1/4 inch circle punch.

Sparkly Hello Blossoms

2011-07-18T18:30:00.002+12:00

At a workshop last week I demonstrated a number of different ways to get glittery, using the Hello Blossoms A la Carte stamp from the current mini catalogue. It is amazing how versatile a single stamp can be.

First I showed how to use markers to ink up the flowers and stems separately to get a pretty array of colours. Then we stepped it up with punched blossoms using the Boho Blossoms punch and gems.

Then I demonstrated using a glue dot to get a perfect circle of glitter and using heat and stick and glitter on a brad. These are the cards I made from my samples: see this stamp even does Christmas!

Here is a closeup of the glitter centres.

The glittered brads were super effective and also a fantastic way to use up odd brads: the colour doesn't matter as it get completely covered in the glitter! I experiemented a bit with the technique (originally demo'ed by Shelli Gardner at Convention) and found an even better method using a custom glitter mix. I can teach you the technique when you book a workshop with me! Here is a closeup.

As usual photography doesn't do the sparkle justice.
And here is the completed card

Of course by now I was on a roll: I will post some more cards I made using Hello Blossoms and Glitter tomorrow!

More Recycling: Fabric Floral Pin

2011-06-08T08:33:00.001+12:00

This is my prototype fabric flower for my recycling classes next week. It consists of leftover scraps from a quilt I made, a button from my button box, a safety pin and hot glue. And of course not forgetting my trusty Big Shot and the Island Floral Die! I can see a few more of these coming off the production line: so easy to make. Now I want to experiment with different textures and fabrics.

Inspired by Convention

2011-06-06T16:43:00.002+12:00

One of the lovely swaps I received at Convention this year was from the talented Tanya Bell. You can see the original swap on her blog. I only changed the base colour to Early Espresso, used a different stamp set and added a ruched ribbon. I liked it so much I made a matching portfolio... wouldn't this make a lovely gift?

This was the project we made at a recent Papercrafters Meetup. I will be offering this project again in a class later this month. See my calendar for details.

Another stamp from re-purposed foam!

2011-06-05T12:40:00.000+12:00

Plus Stampin' Up! corrugated card: from the delivery box! The other re-purposed material is the twine.
Old Olive and Chocolate chip, with a little direct-to-paper to add distressing to the corrugated card.

Sustainability

2011-06-03T17:44:00.004+12:00

This is the 'make and take' tag we made today to publicise the upcoming Sustainability Craft workshops. I am thrilled how it turned out, very much in line with the "love the earth" theme. We will be using recycled materials in these workshops along with Stampin' Up products to make some cool crafts as part of Fletcher Building's Sustainability fortnight.

I used Stampin' Up foam to make the circle stamp (in Tempting Turquoise) and a finer packaging foam to stamp the continents (in Old Olive). I use dotto to attached the foam stamps to an acrylic block. Ink it up and away you go. Then punch out the world with the 1 3/4 inch circle punch. The heart is from some crumpled Real Red cardstock, flattened out and punched with the Owl punch. Crumpling paper is a great stress reliever too.

"Stampin' Up foam? what is that", you say. This is the waste packaging that protect the 12 x 12 scrapbook albums when shipped. I cut it out with the Craft and Rubber scissors: easily done, and it creates a lovely texture when stamped too. I added a tie with some repurposed knitting cotton, punching the hole with the 1/16th inch circle punch.

Check back for more ideas using Rubber bands, bubblewrap and old envelopes. Better yet, share your ideas on this link

Hope and Strength Butterfly card

2011-05-30T07:07:00.001+12:00

This pretty card is so simple: just one colour of ink, two of cardstock and some ribbon and its done! You can change the colours to suit, but here I have used the stunning In Colour Concord Crush with Whisper White. I love the effect you get of several shades of colour just by stamping off (also called second/third generation stamping).

This is one of the cards we will be making in classes on Wednesday and Friday this week. Email me for details and to book.

Stamp Sets: Strength and Hope, Tiny Sentiments

Ink: Concord Crush

Cardstock: Whisper White, Concord Crush

Accessories: snail, trimmer, oval punch, scallop oval punch, dimensionals, white organza ribbon

Reduce, Re-use,Recycle Challenge and Giveaway

2011-05-29T13:27:00.002+12:00

Time for a challenge! I am putting together some samples for a corporate workshop with a environmental focus... and I thought it would be great to get some fresh ideas from all you creative blog watchers on recycling/repurposing crafts. What do you think? Would you like to win a limited edition Stampin' Up bag filled with goodies?

Just use Mr Linky to upload a picture of a project you have made that fits the 3R (reduce, re-use, recycle) category.

Conditions:

The project must use Stampin' Up products but may include non SU "found" and recycled items.
To be eligible for the prize, project must be linked by Monday 13 June 2011

Here is one of my sample cards using a favourite stamp from the current mini : Sail Away. The recycled product is bubblewrap for the cool background. Just ink it up with a couple of inks, in this case Stampin' Up Classic Baha Breeeze and Bashful Blue. Then I just pressed my piece of whisper white cardstock on top, lifted off and got this bubbly effect. I like it!

Stamp Sets: Sail Away, Create a Cupcake

Ink: Baha Breeze, Bashful Blue, Chocolate Chip, Cajun Craze

Cardstock: Whisper White, Chocolate Chip, Cajun Craze

Accessories: snail, trimmer, dimensionals

Recycled materials bubblewrap,white twine

Wait till you see what I did with Stampin' Up foam packaging in tomorrow's post.

Deal of the Week starting 18 May

2011-05-18T05:46:00.001+12:00

Here at the latest deals of the week: only until Tuesday 24th May!
page usual price this week's price

119750	137	Daffodil Delight 5/8'' (1.6 cm) Satin Ribbon	$20.50	$14.35
119963	137	Certainly Celery 3/8'' (1 cm) Taffeta Ribbon	$16.50	$11.55
109112	139	Square Fire Rhinestone Brads	$23.95	$16.77
109113	139	Square Ice Rhinestone Brads	$23.95	$16.77

Contact me to place your order.

Convention 2011 Swap

2011-05-17T19:42:00.001+12:00

Here is the swap I made for convention. I used a new a la carte stamp from the autumn mini. A great stamp and so versatile. For this card I heat embossed on the Not Quite Navy cardstock for the main image, then textured the same colour cardstock using dry embossing and the lattice embossing folder. I can't wait to share some other ideas using this stamp... and also the beautiful swaps I received in return.

Stamp Sets: Sail Away, Teeny Tiny Sentiments.

Ink: Versamark, Real Red

Cardstock: Not Quite Navy, Whisper White

Accessories: White Embossing Powder, Real Red Brads, Dimensionals, smail, trimmer, Embossing Buddy, Heat tool, Big Shot, Lattice Embossing folder.

Stampin' Up Convention 2011

2011-05-16T11:47:00.000+12:00

Wow, what a great time Stampin’ Up! Convention in Melbourne has been! I have so many ideas and photos I want to share with you. The photo is me and my room mate and new friend, fellow demo Robyn Noden from Queensland. You can see that theme of the Convention was Share what you Love! And over the course of the 3 days we did lots of sharing what we love. I have so many ideas that much as I am loving Melbourne, I am looking forward to getting home to try out some new stuff, and schedule new classes and workshops.

To back all this up, Stampin’ Up has some wonderful promotions, including some very generous hostess benefits for workshops held from 23 May until end of June. Contact me now to book your personalised workshop.

More Discounts for this Week

2011-05-05T06:00:00.002+12:00

Another super special deal from Stampin' Up just until 10 May, or while stocks last.

This woodmount set is only $26.37!
Contact me to find out more.

To see all the specials for the week, click here

Celebration Scrapbook Page

2011-05-04T17:29:00.003+12:00

Here is another completed page. This is a case from the current Ideas Book: perfect colours for a child's birthday, and the casual nature means I didn't have to be "perfect" lining up the letters of the title.

The banner style is popular on both cards and scrapbooks at the moment: my page tomorrow uses it too, but to completely different effect with alternate inks and stamps.

If you are itching to get some scrapbook pages done, book yourself some time at my crop this Friday night, 6 May 7-11pm. Contact me for more details

I also put together a quick card that co-ordinates with the page: the Build-a-Cupcake punch makes it all so easy when combined with the Create a Cupcake stamp set. I used the markers direct to rubber to give a little life to the candle flame.

These are two of my favourite new products in the Autumn mini catalogue. Contact me if you would like your own copy, or click on the link in the righthand sidebar for an online version.

Materials used for Celebration Page:
Cardstock: Old Olive, Pacific Point, Whisper White
Inks: Real Red, Pumpkin Pie, Daffodil Delight, Old Olive, Pacific Point, Chocolate Chip, Pear Pizzazz. Stampin' Markers: Old Olive, Real Red
Stamp Set: Create a Cupcake, Simple Serif Alpha
Embellishments: Dimensionals
Tools: Crimper, Trimmer, Build a Cupcake Punch, snips, snail.

Materials used for Happy Birthday gift card:

Cardstock: Pacific Point, Whisper White

Inks: Pacific Point, Pear Pizzazz, Chocolate Chip. Stampin' Markers: Daffodil Delight, Real Red, Pumpkin Pie

Stamp Set: Create a Cupcake

Embellishments: Dimensionals

Tools: Trimmer, Build a Cupcake Punch, snips, snail.

Supplies List for the Autumn Mini

2011-05-01T15:00:00.002+12:00

In love with a project in the new Autumn/Winter Mini Catalogue but not sure what stamp set or colours they used? Click on this link for a full list of supplies for each project or on photo above for the online catalogue.

If it doesn't answer all your questions, why not contact me and arrange a home workshop? The catalogues are a perfect starting point for choosing a project. Learn a new technique or style, or just try out a new colour combination or product.

Cherish Scrapbook page 6x6

2011-05-01T10:49:00.004+12:00

faux suede detail

I've been working on finishing some scrapbook pages: here is one inspired by a card sample in the latest Impression magazine. If you can make a card, you can definitely make a scrapbook page: its just cardmaking on a slightly larger scale! I taught the flower embellishment at a recent techniques class: it uses the faux suede technique. Its a lovely way to add texture and subtle colour variation to your project. I also used double embossing on the embossed piece, after stamping it with a flourish in Sahara Sand. This adds a further level of detail.

Materials used for Cherish page.
Cardstock: Pear Pizzazz, Rich Razzleberry, Very Vanilla
Inks: Sahara Sand, Basic Black, Rich Razzleberry
Stamp Set: Baroque Motifs
Embellishments: Very Vanilla brad, Rich Razzleberry grosgrain ribbon, clear embossing powder
Tools: Trimmer, Big Shot, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, heat gun, crimper, oval punch, circle punch, 5 petal flower punch, bone folder, snail, glue dots, brayer, snips.

Special Discounts each week in May

2011-05-01T06:00:00.002+12:00

Discounts each week, only while stocks last! This deal expires 10 May.

Cottage Garden: this beautiful stamp set available this week for $19.17 clearmount, or $23.97 woodmount.

Tea or Chocolate On Demand

2011-04-14T08:44:00.003+12:00

Here's is another gift idea using a box as a base. The inspiration was from Lauren Meader's blog. This can be made as a tea dispenser ( I even found a co-ordinating tea flavour! Lansang Souchong is very Razzleberry) or if chocolate is your poison, for the individually wrapped Whittaker chocolate squares. Think how sweet this would be with the Eat Chocolate stamp set from the new Autumn/Winter mini!

If you want to learn to make this tea dispenser, email me to schedule a workshop: it makes a perfect customisable Mothers day present and I have daytime and evening slots available over the next 2 weeks!

Cardstock: Elegant Eggplant, Blushing Bride
Stamp Sets: Baroque Motifs, Pun Fun
Inks: Elegant Eggplant, Melon Mambo, Stazon Black
Tools: trimmer, bone scorer, blender pen, circle and scallop circle punch.
Sticky strip, snail

3x3 notelet box tutorial

2011-03-20T22:40:00.004+13:00

This is the project we made at the recent Papercrafters Meetup. This makes a cute gift, or use them yourself as a little gift card or love note. Four cards with their envelopes fit neatly into this little holder made from double-sided paper. I used a sheet of retired Haiku Designer paper and took my colour cues from that: Tangerine Tango, So Saffron, More Mustard and Old Olive. Click here for the tutorial.

Scraps of double sided paper are fantastic to use when putting together a set of cards as you get variety with little waste. And working with a set colour palette makes the cards come together quickly. I also added in Early Espresso and Pear Pizzazz ink, Very Vanilla cardstock and some Old Olive ribbon. The stamp set is the awesome Aviary set with Teeny Tiny Sentiments to add the perfect phrase. Aviary is from the current mini which finishes on 31 March. Order now if you don’t want to miss out.

Registration for Stampfest now open

2011-02-07T20:20:00.002+13:00

Autumn Stampfest 2011

We are pleased to announce the first Stampfest event with an exciting programme of events in March 2011. What better way is there to boost your creativity that to spend a whole day crafting with friends!

Join us for a fun filled day of crafting during which you will complete five mini classes. You will be provided with everything you need to complete the projects including as much or as little tuition as you need.

The date is Saturday 19^th March. We meet in a creative environment in Pakuranga where you will have time and space to learn new techniques and try out new products. As well as the crafting there will also be a lot of laughter, raffles and prizes!

The day costs $50 and every participant will get a goodie bag containing Stampin’ Up! products. Light refreshments are also included and we ask you to bring your own lunch.

It is essential that you book your place at least 2 weeks ahead of the class (5 March). Early bird enrolments (by 14 February) get extra tickets in the grand prize draw.

For further information or to book please call me on 09 576 6807 or email

Stampfest is a collaboration between Independent Stampin' Up! Demonstrators Ann Clarke, Carol-Ann Torrie, Christine Ford, Rachel Roberts and Yoko McGregor

Click here for registration form

Blog Giveaway Winner!

2011-01-28T13:37:00.002+13:00

Congrats to Chris who won my Blog Giveaway. I used random.org and it came up with the number of her post, number 10. I am sure she will find some great inspiration in that big box: paper, stickers, diecuts, vellum, glitter, inks, stamps, popdots, fibres and more paper!!

If you missed out, I have some more treat bags I have made up from my craft clearout. I will be giving them away at my card and crop evening next Friday 4 February: hope you can make it. Please book in early as spaces are limited.

I hope those of you who planned to organise your craft space have made some headway. Having a clear workspace can be just the thing you need to get creative. I have been working on projects for the upcoming Stampfest in March. You are not going to want to miss out on this day (Saturday,19 March) dedicated to papercraft creativity. Full details and registration open 3 February.

Sale-a-Bration

2011-01-24T23:05:00.007+13:00

(click to view)

Four gorgeous new stamp sets from Stampin' Up make their debut today. These sets are only available as a free thank you gift as part of our annual Sale-a-Bration. All customers placing a $120 order from the current catalogues (Ideas Book and Summer Mini) between now and 31 March qualify. You choose a set for each multiple of $120 you spend i.e. order $240 worth to choose 2 sets, $360 to choose 3 sets (plus hostess set and $35 free product) Please call (021 101 2192) or email me to request your copy of the brochure. I will be placing an order on Wednesday, so contact me now with your order if you can't wait!

Its also the perfect time to host a workshop, as hostesses can qualify for Sale-a-Bration sets in addition to all the wonderful benefits. Contact me now to discuss projects you would like to make at your workshop.

Happiness Always

2011-01-24T15:29:00.002+13:00

Another gorgeous card from our shoebox swap! This one designed by Ann Clark uses Printed Petals and the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder to great effect. Real Red and Basic Black with Whisper White make a stylish combination.

My box of goodies for the blog giveaway is growing: if you want a chance to win see my earlier post and leave a comment.

Supersize Me - Blog Giveaway

2011-01-20T17:37:00.001+13:00

Reality check: What was I thinking? All that extra craft room stuff was never going to fit in an A5 bag!! My blog giveaway has now been supersized to a box big enough to fit 12 x12 paper and cardstock. As well there will be ink pads, stamps, and embellishments. To enter just make a comment on my previous post here. I'll give you some sneak peaks of the box as I fill it: the draw is by random org next Wednesday.

Here is another card from the recent shoebox swap: without any collusion we had all picked Valentine/love themed cards. This pretty card designed by Rachel Roberts again uses Love Defined, this time with Rose Red and Early Espresso.

Should be able to get to the craft table for some papercraft by tonight: in the meantime I have finished the binding on another quilt. This one has a funny history: all those little half triangle squares (only 1" finished) were leftovers from another quilt. Such a wasteful technique: I couldn't bear to throw them away, so they were carefully hoarded. I only had the patience to use them the summer two of my boys had chicken pox. We were social pariahs over New Year, and all that at-home time gave me the focus to make this design.

Craft Room Cleanup and Blog Giveaway

2011-01-19T10:37:00.008+13:00

Its time to get serious in the craft room: I have lots of fun new projects I want to work on (Stamp Club, recycle challenge, Stampfest etc) but my messy craft room is sapping my will to live: well at least my will to create!!

I have dedicated some time to working through the piles and finishing projects. One great result: I have finally finished the top of a king single patchwork quilt! You can see it in the picture above. This was from a kiwiquilters block swap in 2000. Now to send it off to be quilted. I have some orphan blocks I will be donating to a quilters guild: hooray more space to papercraft. I'd love to hear about any old projects you have finally completed.

I have been filling a box with scrapbooking and stamping goodies I no longer use, and I have decided to offer it as blog candy. So here is your chance to win: just make a comment on my blog to go in the draw. Some of the items are brand new, some lovingly used. As they are not all Stampin Up products I am unable to show them on my blog, but rest assured there are some real treasures. Stamps, inkpads, glitter, embellishments, ribbon. I will stuff a A5 Post bag and send it on its way to the lucky winner. I will draw the winner next Wednesday 26 January at 6pm (sorry, offer only to New Zealand residents)

Update: have now supersized the giveaway box so fit more treasures!

Loved the Holidays...

2011-01-18T23:44:00.000+13:00

and now I am loving getting back to my craft room for some non Christmas stamping. A big tidy up in in process.
For the moment, until I really get into crafting mode, I am sharing this Love Defined card from our recent shoebox swap. It was so much fun and we all came away with 5-6 new cards. This one was designed by Donna Calley. I'll share the others in the next few days. Check back tomorrow for some new clubs starting, and a blog giveaway!

Christmas Money to Spend?

2010-12-29T09:02:00.001+13:00

Do you still have Christmas money to spend? Today is the last day for the fantastic specials of Stampin' Up!s December Frenzy Promotion, so don't delay: email me with your order! These specials really help the money go further!
As a special festive thank you I am offering free shipping. Pay by Visa or Bankcard (I also accept Paypal or direct banking) and you can shop in your PJs! (like I am now at 9am oh the joys of the holidays)

Celebrate a Tropical Summer

2010-12-16T12:35:00.003+13:00

Weather is Auckland has certainly been tropical over the last few days. Walking out of the airconditioned supermarket yesterday I got that blast of warm humidity that transports you to memories of holidays in Fiji! I'm looking forward to more tropical feelings by the pool over these holidays, especially once I have an icy drink in my hand.

With that spirit in mind I made and demonstrated this card at my team Christmas meeting last night. This bright card is a CASE from the very talented Dawn Olchefske. I loved this fun design that uses a real straw, along with the new (summer mini) Island Oasis designer paper and the Island Flower die. I borrowed the Tropical Party stamp set (thanks to my upline, Donna) But I don't have the new square lattice embossing folder that gave such a cool texture on Dawn's card. So I came up with my own idea to give texture and dimension to my coconut. (NOTE: I will upload better quality photos later today)

First I cut a circle out of Chocolate Chip cardstock. You can use the Circle Scissors (on special in the December Frenzy) or the Circles #2 Die for the Big Shot to make the circle. Then run the circle through your crimper several times, turning the card each time to get a grid effect. Use your bone folder to partially smooth the card and you will end up with a subtle texture. I highlighted this by using my Early Espresso inkpad direct to paper.

Everyone at the party wanted to know how to make the cool 3D flowers from the summer mini (page 20), so we had a little play with the Island Flower Die. The orange flowers are super easy: just cut 3 of the tri-petal shapes from Tangerine Tango, and 2 from So Saffron. The beauty of the Big Shot is that you can cut all these pieces in one pass. Curl the petals using a pencil or chopstick. Layer together with a brad: you can add a pearl or jewel for extra sparkle.

The pink blossoms are a little more tricky.Tutorials on the web all seem to use a knotted string centre. In the process I had the brain wave to make a beaded centre to the flower. Of course when I got home I just to get out my bead box and create this flower. The beading makes it extra pretty.

I used a bead and sequin for the centre of each floweret. The cardstock is Pretty in Pink, sponged with Rose Red. One of the other shapes from the die is cut from Old Olive cardstock to form the leaves. If you would like to learn how to make this flower come to my Summer Pool Party 15 January 2011. There will be a demonstrations, a make and take and prizes. This is a free event to enjoy summer and the new mini and kick start your crafting year once the hype of Christmas is past. Just email me for your invitation.

Peach Parfait Thank You

2010-12-15T16:53:00.002+13:00

Here's a quick share of a card I made as part of a Thank you gift. A set of these Fresh Cut notes go together fast and make a thoughtful gift for any occasion when packaged in a set.

I used the Fresh cuts cards with matching square envelopes. The square card makes a nice change. A piece of Peach Parfait designer paper is layered behind. I echoed the polka dots on the paper by embossing some Whisper White cardstock with the Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder. Before I ran the card and embossing folder through the Big Shot I brayered the male side of folder with a mixture of Peach Parfait and Tangerine Tango ink. I punched this paper out using the 5 petal punch. The polka dots are on the debossed side, so it is easy to stamp the little flower shape in the centre (from Baroque Motifs) in more Peach Parfait and accent with a pearl. I chose the thank you phrase from the Because I Care Hostess stamp set to finish the card.

You can see I am enjoying the beautiful colours in the orange range that Stampin' Up Offers!

Definitely Contempo! Non Trad Colours

2010-12-10T12:52:00.001+13:00

Another quick card for Christmas: well quick is relative! By the time I had tied 100 ribbon bows I had got pretty good at it! Yes I made over 80 cards of this design for a friend whose corporate colour is orange!( Tangerine Tango and Peach Parfait) And I still love the Contempo Stamp set and the Ornament Punch after all that! In fact here is another card in non traditional colours (Pretty in Pink, Melon Mambo, Bashful Blue and Pear Pizzazz) using the same stamp and punch set.

Planning to trial some new card sizes as soon as my next order arrives with some new envelope sizes!

Quick but stunning Cards for Christmas

2010-12-08T07:47:00.000+13:00

If you still have a lot of cards to make (gentle reminder: only 17 sleeps til Christmas), choose a simple design with a feature that makes it special: in the first card it is embossing (using the Big Shot), in the second a wide luscious ribbon.

This is a full reveal of two of my recent Stamp-a-Stack Cards. I am really pleased with how they turned out. The first one uses a Whisper White, Real Red with a touch of Old Olive colour scheme. I also used Petals-a-Plenty embossing folder, 5 petal punch, Real Red Ink, Stampin' Up gems and the sentiment is from Season of Joy.

The second card goes together so quickly: great for mass production. Colour scheme is Ridinghood Red, Always Artichoke and Very Vanilla. The feature is the stunning ribbon: this was the Ridinghood Red ribbon from the recent Dress Up Christmas promotion, but I have also used the current catalogue Real Red 1 1/4 inch striped grosgrain (with Old Olive and Whisper White) to equally good effect. The So Swirly wheel across the bottom, and the stamped sentiment from Curly Cute and a mat and another card is complete.

Cherry on Top! Top Note box in Cherry Cobbler

2010-12-07T05:30:00.006+13:00

We made this gorgeous box last month at team training. It really is just a glorified modified mini pizza box... but it packs a real wow with sponging and bling, organza ribbon and the yummy combination of cherry cobbler and old olive.

The stamp set is Snow Swirled, and of course we used the Top Note Big Shot Die. Contact me if you want to learn how to make this box,

Santa's Hat: another Christmas Box

2010-12-06T18:52:00.005+13:00

So Shelli's Creative Challenge for this month is to share a favourite technique. If you have been reading my blog recently you will know that I have been having a wonderful creative time making lots of different boxes and bags for Christmas gift packaging. I made this one several weeks ago, but haven't shared it yet. I got the inspiration when I saw triangle boxes that had been converted into witches' hats in several Halloween project blog posts, back in October.

Then I found a Santa Hat version, a seasonal box better suited to this part of the world. (Halloween isn't big in New Zealand) This was inspired by Paula Wright who I stumbled across on Facebook! She has some awesome Christmas ideas.

I used Real Red cardstock stamped in Real Red with one of the stamps from Season of Joy stamp set. The hat is trimmed with Whisper White punched with the scallop edge border, and the pompom is 8 scallop circles punched from more Whisper White. I scrunched them up then layered them together. A brad anchors them all together. The tag is made using the curly label punch again with a Seasons of Joy stamp and using Real Red and Old Olive markers. Whisper White grosgrain ribbon to close and its done! Cute!

Clean and Simple:Christmas

2010-12-05T13:29:00.004+13:00

Here is a one layer card (quick and economical too) that I made for the Simplicity Challenge. The challenge was Back to the Beginning, using a technique that first got you hooked on stamping. Like many people, the magic of heat embossing was what really got me into stamping. The first Christmas cards I made featured a kiwi stamp embossed in gold on a torn mulberry mat... no heat gun of course, so they were embossed using the toaster! I hadn't even bought the stamp with cardmaking in mind: I had bought it to make quilt labels for an international swap I was in. The rest as they say, is history! (must be at least 15 years ago)
It would be fun to make a new card using that first stamp... maybe thats a challenge I should do in the New Year...

For this one the colours are Always Artichoke and Cherry Cobbler on a Very Vanilla base. I used my bone folder to make the embossed lines at the bottom of the card. The stamp set is Season of Joy and I used my Versamarker pen to add the gold embossing powder for a subtle highlight to this clean and simple card.

Little Christmas Gifts: under $5

2010-12-03T16:09:00.004+13:00

Yes December! It's definitely time to focus on quick craft ideas for little appreciation gifts and stocking stuffers. Here are a couple of ideas that come in under the $5 mark. I find $5 is often the guideline figure for staff santa presents... but it takes some ingenuity to come up with a worthwhile store-bought gift in that range. That is one of the joys of crafting: a unique individualised present that can be made in less time than it takes to find a parking spot at the mall in December! Both these project just require a couple of score lines and sticky strip combined with supplies you probably already have on hand (go on, admit it: you love stationery supplies too)

First up a little notepad holder with matching pen:

Ingredients: 1 sheet (total) cardstock (Melon Mambo, Daffodil Delight, Whisper White) 73c
8cm 1.6cm wide grosgrain ribbon (old olive) 8c
sticky strip 15c
notepad 88c
pen 45c
inks (Old Olive, Tangerine Tango,Melon Mambo, Daffodil Delight, Pacific Point) and stamp set (Cheep Talk)

Total cost (NZD) $2.13

I have also made a handbag from the summer mini paper Island Oasis. I love this bright and summery paper and the matching Tropical Party stamp set is magic with it.

Open the handbag: suprise... its a little Post-It holder!

.
1/3 sheet of designer paper (Island Oasis) 56c
25cm Pumpkin Pie 6.4mm grosgrain ribbon 24c
Post-It notepad $2.50
sticky strip 22c
jewel 8c
velcro dot 16c
Cardstock scraps Melon Mambo and Whisper White
Ink (Pumpkin Pie) and Stamp set (Tropical Party)
5 petal Punch
Total cost (NZD) $3.71

Want to learn how to make these? Join my class Quick Christmas Gifts this Monday 6 December 7-9pm. Or get 3-4 friends together and I will come to you: I still have some daytime and a few evening dates available before Christmas! Email me now to arrange a time to suit.

December is Here!

2010-11-30T23:58:00.007+13:00

Unbelievable... December is here. Not one but two great promotions from Stampin' Up! start today. First of all is the new summer mini with some awesome new products. I can't wait to start creating some new projects: I have a travel scrapbook album planned as a holiday project using some amazing designer papers and stamps. Other "must-haves" are a new basket weave embossing folder, and the new smooch spritz spray for instant glamour! You can see the mini online here; or email me with your postal address and I'll send you your personal copy.

The other promotion is December Frenzy with some amazing specials on selected stamps and markers. Some great stocking stuffers here with stampin' markers only $4.17! and the fantastic Teeny Tiny Sentiments set works out at $1.60 per stamp! They are not that "teeny" either, and fit perfectly in the Word Window punch. Buy a present for a crafty friend, or treat yourself for some holiday crafting pleasure. Email me to place your order and you can tick some more things off your "to-do" list! Remember you can now use Visa or Mastercard to pay for Stampin" Up products. This promotion lasts most of the month, but you will need to order by 12th December to be sure of a pre-Christmas delivery.

Get to Convention in Melbourne for only $75!

2010-11-16T18:08:00.001+13:00

As I know a lot of Stampin' Up Demos read this blog, a quick heads up that Air New Zealand Grabaseat has some super cheap airfares to Melbourne in May 2011. Just perfect for going to the Stampin' Up! conference! I got a return flight for $170 with luggage (have to add on another $142 taxes but its still a good deal!) Don't miss out: they are available ex Auckland or ex Christchurch. Hope this helps someone!

Sneak Peaks of Sunday's Stamp a Stack

2010-11-16T17:33:00.002+13:00

If you need to get Christmas cards done in a hurry, book for a Christmas Stamp-a-Stack. You will make 9 cards in just 2 hours: 3 cards each of three designs, all with just the right amount of bling or ribbon to make them extra special.

Next one is this Sunday 21 November, 2-4pm at my home in Pakuranga. Total cost only $20: all you need to bring is adhesive. You will also make some bonus Christmas tags. Still a couple of places left, so book now. More details on my website

Bagalope Tutorial

2010-11-12T23:18:00.000+13:00

I have done a simple tutorial for last week's bagalope gift bag. It can be viewed as a pdf here

November News

2010-11-10T05:00:00.000+13:00

Just as a little break from all the Christmas colours I made this bright card from the Cheep Talk stamp set. I thought the theme was perfect for keeping in touch... and for letting you know my November newsletter is about to go out. Join my mailing list if you want to be up-to-date with the latest events and promotions

Gift Wrap in a Snap!

2010-11-09T20:53:00.011+13:00

The Stampin' Around wheel is a fantastic way to cover a lot of territory in a little time!
Use it with a stamp pad for cards and tags, but it really comes into its own when used with an ink cartridge for continuous inking. Perfect for large sheets of wrapping paper or 12 x 12 scrapbook pages.

Just choose a re-inker in the colour of your choice and ink up the correct sized cartridge to match your wheel (standard or jumbo).

Get your Christmas gift wrapping done in a flash with this cool tool. I have used it on a sheet of A3 copy paper which makes a very useful size wrapping paper. Night of Navy ink on white, with co-ordinating ribbon.

Remember to start of rolling on scrap paper to get the wheel fully inked. You must keep rolling in one direction: I roll away from me as I find this gives best control. Put your index and middle finger on top of the handle to exert even pressure.

Once you have finished with the wheel, push the cartridge back, out of contact with the rubber. Roll off on scrap paper to get rid of excess ink, then roll over the Stampin' Scrub to get perfectly clean. Remember to keep rolling in one direction, rather than back and forth to make sure all the surfaces are cleaned. Then snap out the wheel, remove the cartridge and replace its cover. I store the cartridge in a sealed plastic bag between uses.

I have added in some stars/flowers (Season of Joy) in Marina Mist and attached a gift card. (using the versatile Gifted stamp set and a couple of punches) Just right for a wrapping a book for my Book Club secret Santa. Hooray, something else ticked of the "to-do" list.

Better yet, the So Swirly wheel I have used here is part of the Dress Up Christmas bundle promotion set: buy the bundle and you receive a free roll of ribbon. Thanks Stampin' Up! for helping make Christmas wrapping beautiful (and stress-free)

Jolly Holiday Gift Boxes

2010-11-04T07:56:00.003+13:00

Okay: my technological disaster is mainly resolved. Long story short: don't believe anyone when they say "oh upgrading from Vista to 7 is a piece of cake" and never ever do it the night before a blog hop you are participating in, no matter how much of a dog the old operating system is and how much better your life is going to be with the new one!! LOL

Enough of that: I just have to take new photos of my blog hop projects from last week: they will be up tonight. Thanks for your patience.

In the meantime here are the projects from last night's second treat boxes class. We made a box with the scallop envelope die and a matching gift card. You could make a little set of these cards to go in the box as a little pre-Christmas appreciation gift. Its the kind gift that is truely appreciated when you don't have to rush out to the shops on Christmas eve because you have run out of gift tags!

I used the Gifted Stamp set for the stocking images. There are 4 other stamps in the set, all perfect for quick tags or more advanced techniques. The snowflake is from my old favourite, Season of Joy. Of course glitter was essential here, but it doesn't show too well in the photo.

Next up a mini pizza box. This is just the right size to hold a block of memo paper, a jumbo cookie, some fudge, or even calorie free stamping supplies!

Third project: A bagalope made using a Stampin' Up! Very Vanilla envelope: perfect surface for stamping on and fits my colour scheme of Very Vanilla, Always Artichoke and Cherry Cobbler taken from the Jolly Holiday Designer paper pack. Choosing one colour theme make it easy and economical to make a batch of gift packages that look stunning. Armed with a Stampin' Around So Swirly wheel and ink cartridge these a so quick to turn out... finish with a Designer paper topper and Very Vanilla taffeta ribbon. I have now added a brief tutorial for the bagalope here

I used the Gifted Stamp set here too: remember this stamp set is part of the "Dress Up Christmas" Promotion. Buy the stamp set and Jolly Holiday designer paper together and you will receive a free roll of exclusive ribbon... Not only that but you will have all your small gift packaging sorted! I will be placing an order this weekend, so contact me now if there is anything you would like me to include for you.

Last project was a small bag in a box.This makes a study package with its box base, and can be finished off in a number of ways. I kept it simple with the Extra Large Oval punch and some of the promotional Mistletoe ribbon. You can also make a larger version with a full sheet of 12 x 12 designer paper.

If you would like to learn how to make any of these projects, why not get a few friends together and I can run a workshop for you... my home or yours. It feels great to have unique boxes and bags ready for filling with treats: easy gifts in the busy end-of-year season. Just email me to arrange a time to suit.

South Pacific Punch Blog Hop: Petal Card Punch

2010-10-29T12:09:00.004+13:00

Hello and welcome to the inaugural South Pacific punch art blog hop!!! Unfortunately I am having a major technological crisis, so please check back soon for PHOTOS.
Update at 1pm (NZ time) now have one photo via my phone! My apologies. Please check back later this afternoon for the rest of the photos.
If you are already on the blog hop, you have come here from Karen Southwell's blog featuring the beautiful 2 step bird punch.

We are a bunch of Stampin Up demonstrators from New Zealand and Australia who love our Stampin Up punches. We have gotten together to showcase a selection of the punches you can purchase from Stampin Up. We know we will inspire you and encourage you to use those punches in new and beautiful ways. Please leave a comment and let us know what you think to go in the draw to win some yummy scrummy punch art blog candy (offer not available to SU demos).

I fell in love with the cute Petal Card punch and I hope you will be inspired by the versatile ways in can be used for cardmaking, scrapbooking and 3D projects. This punch is new to the 2011 Ideas Book, and there are so many ways to use it.Its also in the new slimline configuration that makes storage so much easier.

First a note about using this punch. It definitely works best on a flat surface. I use the heel of my hand to give it an extra push once it has punched through the card to ensure that it also gives deep impressions on the scoring lines.When punching lighter weight papers or vellum make sure you put through a double layer so it doesn't get munched in the punch.(great technical term). Because of the embossing part of the punch you cannot punch upside down and use the "window" to see where you are punching. So I stand and "eyeball" where the punch is going to fall on the card I am punching.

First of all you can simply make a mini Envelope. It comes out of the punch already scored and you just fold the petals into a swirl which needs no glue. This little envelope can be used in scrapbooking for hidden messages and memorabilia. Try using vellum for another look.

Just use glue dots to join 2 together to make a mini treat box. This is tiny (approx 1" square), but will still fit a bite sized treat. It also works perfectly Cute by the Inch Stamp set (Hostess Level 2).

You can make a bigger cube sized box by joining 4 punches together. I used a 1 inch square piece of cardstock to keep it all square.

Next I made a tube treat holder that is perfect for Hershey Kisses. The cardstock is scored at a fraction under 1 inch and the punch is used to make the end caps.I can't wait to try this out with acetate for a clear treat holder.

Now I have spent some time with this punch I have come up with some ways of using it so check back soon. Now continue on the blog hop.

Next is Sally Williams with the Flower Fancy Punch.

Do you want Fries with That?

2010-10-28T10:14:00.003+13:00

This little treat container is so much classier with its package of mint truffle kisses than the usual fries! This is one of the gift boxes we made last night in class. We had a great group and everyone worked hard to complete 4 different boxes and and tags in 2 hours.

The mini French Fries box is made from a retired Designer Paper (doubled sided paper is perfect for this project) Just add a tag (Gifted stamp set) stamped in Chocolate Chip and matted with Real Red, and a mini cello bag tied with Real Red 1/8 inch ribbon. A cute appreciation gift for around $3.50 including the chocolates! Contact me if you want to learn to make this gift package: there are spaces in the class next week for more ideas

Petals-a-Plenty

2010-10-22T11:33:00.000+13:00

I made a thank you card last night using my latest Big Shot accessory: the Petals-a-Plenty embossing folder: I'll be featuring this folder in my Big Shot club night in November.

Deep impression embossing really looks great on the rich Very Vanilla cardstock. When I get some playtime this afternoon I'm using the same layout to make a Christmas card. The petals embossing folder is versatile enough to work for many different styles.

I also used the Hydranga from the Hostess set "Because I care". This was also the first outing for the flower, although I have used the "thank you" phrase alot already. I love this font. Cardstock colours are Very Vanilla, Almost Artichoke and Basic Black, with inks Concord Crush, Nearly Navy, So Saffron and Almost Artichoke. The fold is a "Z fold" - simple to do, but looks very effective while still fitting in a standard envelope.

All the Trimmings... Christmas Ribbons and Designer Paper

2010-10-20T07:50:00.004+13:00

These luscious ribbons are from the latest promotion from Stampin' Up! I can't wait for my order to arrive and I will be using the flocked Designer Paper Christmas Cocoa in my Sweet Treats course starting next week.

Isn't it gorgeous? The featured colours are Real Red and Soft Suede. The sophisticated colour scheme, flocking and metallic highlights add instant elegance to your holiday projects. This pack of Designer paper includes 2 each of 2 single-sided flocked papers and 2 each of 4 double-sided papers. (12x12). This paper is only available until 30 November, or while stocks last.

If you want to see these papers in real life, contact me to arrange a Christmas-theme workshop. Now is the perfect time to get gifts and gift wrapping ticked off the pre-Christmas list. Enjoying a gift wrapping workshop at home with your friends certainly beats braving the shopping mall the week before Christmas! Ask me how you can earn free ribbons...

Box tutorial and variations

2010-10-15T12:43:00.004+13:00

One of the new sections in the Ideas Book is for Big Shot Die Cutting products. This is an amazing cutting and embossing system! I can't decide which is my favourite accessory: the vintage wallpaper embossing folder is gorgeous and I love all the diffeent things you can create with the scallop envelope die. One thing is for certain, I have a few things on my wish list! Good new for those of you who already have a Cuttlebug, is that nearly all the dies and folders work in that machine too. Call or email me if you want to check which are compatible.
While I prioritise my wish list I have worked out the directions for making a box similar to the Box #2 using my trusty Fiskars trimmer and a bone folder. Of course if you prefer it can also be cranked out in a flash using the Bigz xl die and Big Shot. (page 155 in the catalogue)

You will need:
A4 cardstock
co-ordinating designer paper and ribbon
trimmer
Bone folder
Sticky strip or mono glue
Cardstock, stamps and ink to decorate.

Start with a sheet of A4 and trim to 6 3/4 x 8 inches. With the 6 3/4 inch edge along the top guide, score at 1 1/2 inches from each edge. Turn 90 degrees and score at 2 inches: 3 1/2 inches: 5 1/2 inches: 7 inches. Burnish all score lines (dashed lines) with bone folder.

Cut where marked (solid lines). Remove the shaded areas.

Using a 1 inch circle punch to punch a half circle out of the top front face of the box.

Apply sticky strip or mono glue to the flaps and assemble the box.

Decorate, fill with treats, add ribbon and a tag and you have a perfect gift package.

In my finished box at the top of this post I used panels of designer series paper (retired Haiku) and Pumpkin Pie 1/4 inch grosgrain ribbon with More Mustard cardstock. I added Tiny Tags stamps and the jewellery punch with Tangerine Tango, More Mustard and Old Olive markers.

Check back tomorrow and I will have some variations to share with you using this box as a base.

Celebrate International Cardmaking Day

2010-09-29T09:29:00.000+13:00

International Cardmaking Day this Saturday! Join me from 2-5pm at my home and make some beautiful cards. Bring your own projects, or you can buy a kit for two different cards for only $5. Email me or phone on 0211012192 to book your table space!

Beautiful Butterflies on the Big Shot Blog Hop

2010-09-18T12:01:00.013+12:00

Try saying that one fast!!

I hope you’re ready for the ESAD Big Shot Blog Hop! Welcome from the inspirational blog of Carole Stedman. There is a lot of talent on display with 23 different blogs to visit, all featuring the Big Shot and products from the new Stampin' Up Ideas Book and Catalogue, so hope you have some time to spend, and maybe a cup of your favourite beverage.

What is ESAD?

ESAD stands for Extra Special Australasian Demonstrators and it is an online group just for Australian and New Zealand demonstrators for Stampin’
Up!

We so love what we do and not only do we love to share it with our customers, friends, and wonderful blog visitors but we share our love for what we do with each other as Demonstrators. We run swaps, challenges, tutorials, product know how and cyberstamps and we are always there to help and support each other when its needed.

So if you are a Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator located in Australia or New Zealand then please feel free to click here to join our wonderful group.

I have made a couple of projects using the brand new die Beautiful Butterflies. This is a Bigz die that runs so smoothly through the Big Shot and cuts out 4 butterflies each time. Effortless! This die is exclusive to Stampin' Up and the 4 sizes can layer together for an easy 3D effect.

For my gift card I folded the Whisper White cardstock before running through the Big Shot to get a cute butterfly-shaped card.

I have also used the pillow box die with window sheet to make a clear acetate gift box. I am using one of the new In Colours from the catalogue: Concord Crush, and jewels as a quick and stylish accent. My stamp set is the old favourite Baroque Motifs. On the card I have also used another new colour, Pear Pizazz, pearls and a phrase from a new Hostess Set "Because I Care".

The next stop for Big Shot inspiration on the Blog Hop is with Sherylee Tutt.

Win Blog Candy

* this is only open to customers (ie. demonstrators do not qualify)
* to qualify you must visit every blog on the hop and leave a comment on each one
* once you have commented on each blog (there are 23) email Leonie (leonie@stamp-a-latte.com) and advise her you have been round and commented on all the blogs.

New Idea Book and Catalogue is Online

2010-09-01T08:51:00.000+12:00

Welcome Spring, and welcome to the New Ideas Book and Catalogue! I'll be placing my first order tonight... how to choose?? I think my focus will be on the new colours and ribbons, but then there are also some killer punches (lol) and I so "need" the embossilit butterflies... the things I order will be featured at my Catalogue Launch later in the month.
Email me if you want to be on the guest list! or if you have something you can't wait to order and I'll include it in my order tonight.

Challenge Revival Plus RAK day

2010-08-31T12:54:00.004+12:00

Back in January I had a goal to post or give a card a week, and blog about it. Unfortunately when my dad had a stroke in late January it kind of got derailed... but the plan was always in the back of my mind.

I have been much more active this year about getting cards to the intended recepient on time for birthdays, or just because... but not every week, mostly not blogged about.

So, because its never too late to make a fresh start, I am going to challenge myself to go back to my original goal. If you have trouble getting those cards in the mail, why don't you join me? I am thinking up some little incentives for those who join in. We can help keep each other energised and on task.

Did you know that 1 September is a very special day in New Zealand. Not only is it the first day of the new Stampin' Up! Ideas Book and Catalogue, it is also our National RAK day.

RAK= Random Act of Kindness...the idea is to do small acts of kindness for others including complete strangers. You can get some ideas here at the official website. Co-incidentally this week's ESAD Challenge to make and send a card. So join me as I re-activate my resolution from January 2010 to send a card a week, starting on RAK day.

The card I am sending is a little hello to a friend who has just found out her mother has a recurrence of ovarian cancer... I hope it is a little boost for her in this difficult time. The card is a case from the new catalogue! just changed the stamp set to one I already have.

Leave a comment on this post when you have completed the challenge, with a note on who you sent the card to and why. This weekend I will draw a name from the comments and send the winner a little envelope of goodies. You can comment for each card you send... but you must send (or deliver) the card for it to count. I'd love to hear about any other non-card RAKs you receive or give.

Good luck as you share the joy of handmade cards...

Stamps sets: Floral fancy, Tiny Tags

Ink: Riding Hood Red, Old Olive

Cardstock: Riding Hood Red, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip, Crumb Cake, Baha Breeze.

Accessories: jewellry tag punch, Aquapainter, Stampin' Write markers in Real read and old olive, twine, handheld circle punch, scallop edger(non SU)

I used a strip of baha breeze cardstock distressed with the faux suede method to make the faux ribbon knot.

Final orders please ladies and gentlemen

2010-08-29T22:17:00.000+12:00

Make sure your order is with me by 8pm tomorrow (Monday 30 August) to take advantage of these last great specials in the last days of the current catalogue.

Item #	Page	Description	Discount	Discounted NZ Price
116342	42	Big Bold Birthday	50%	$ 31.98
116408	100	Seeing Spots	50%	$ 17.98
116344	121	Big Deal Alphabet	50%	$ 45.98
116208	126	In Color card stock (A4) Now sold out	50%	$ 8.63
105538	127	Bold Brights Stampin’ Write markers	25%	$ 51.71
105537	127	Soft Subtles Stampin’ Write markers	25%	$ 51.71
105540	127	Rich Regals Stampin’ Write markers	25%	$ 51.71
105541	127	Many Marvelous Markers	25%	$ 209.96
105550	128	Bold Brights Classic Stampin’ Spots	25%	$ 37.46
105551	128	Earth Elements Classic Stampin’ Spots	25%	$ 37.46
105539	128	Earth Elements Stampin’ Write markers	25%	$ 51.71
105552	129	Rich Regals Classic Stampin’ Spots	25%	$ 37.46
112042	132	Urban Garden Designer Series paper	50%	$ 9.98
112041	134	Bella Rose Designer Series paper	50%	$ 9.98
107305	152	Oval Large punch	50%	$ 17.98
113692	152	Eyelet border punch	50%	$ 17.98
109043	152	Scallop Circle punch	50%	$ 17.98
113694	152	Heart to Heart punch	50%	$ 17.98
112082	152	Wide Oval punch	50%	$ 17.98
112091	152	Scallop Edge punch	50%	$ 17.98
113693	152	Full Heart punch now sold out	50%	$ 17.98
104310	155	Crafters’ Tool Kit	25%	$ 68.96
112004	AW28*	1-3/4″ Circle punch	50%	$ 17.98
116629	CO*	Butterfly punch	50%	$ 17.98

New Ideas Book has arrived!

2010-08-20T14:26:00.002+12:00

The courier was at my door this morning with a very heavy box... my pre-order of the new Ideas Book and Catalogue for 2011. (Unfortunately I'm not permitted to show it on my blog until 1 September, hence the pic)

OMG you will love the wealth of ideas and feast of colours! If you have ordered or earned a catolgue from me, schedule some time this weekend to drool over it... you will have it in your hot little hands by tomorrow. Want one too? Recommended retail is $15.95, or there are a couple of ways you can get one for free. Give me a call on (09) 576 6807 or email me to find out more.

My official Catalogue Launch party will be on Friday evening 10 September.This is a free event, but spaces are limited, so book your place with me now. You will be making a couple of make-and-takes in the new colours with stamps and tools from the new catalogue. Everyone who attends will receive a treat bag and there will be prizes up for grabs including a Hostess Level 1 stamp set (from the new catalogue) of your choice. Email me to book

Before I get too carried away with planning the the new, a few details regarding the old (but good) current catalogue. The winner of the of the prize draw at my Last Chance Open Home was last week was Rebecca... congratulations. Rebecca chose the Hostess set "Picture This" from the Autumn Mini catalogue as her thank- you gift.

All of August is Last Chance Month. Many items in the current catalogue will no longer be available after 31 August, some are even discounted making them even greater value. I will also be featuring some last chance products especially the gorgeous Designer papers in my Stamp-a-Stack this Sunday. Join me to get a bunch of cards made to cover most occasions... you can also browse both the retiring specials, and check out the new catalogue. In a couple of hours you will be able to go home with a selection of cards for those upcoming birthdays, Father's Day or "just because" moments. This class is suitable for beginners and up.

Continuing my Love Affair with Kraft (and Craft)

2010-08-20T11:42:00.002+12:00

I seem to have been reaching for the the Kraft cardstock alot recently. It combines beautifully with so many colours. Here I am using Kraft, Baha Breeze and Chocolate Chip. Kraft cardstock is on the Last Chance List, but on 1 September is will be reborn as the more alliterative Crumb Cake... same colour, different name. It will be part of the new Neutrals Collection, and will now be available as ink, pastel and markers. Woo hoo! No ribbon tho... the beautiful taffeta ribbon I used here will no longer be available.

This treat box was one I whipped up for a colleague's birthday recently: a perfect size to fit a small votive candle. You could also fill it with sweets, chocolates or toiletries.

Kraft Fancy Treat Box

Ink: Baha Breeze.

Stamp Set: Flower Fancy

Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Whisper White, Kraft*,

Accessories: Kraft Taffeta Ribbon*, Pretties Kit, Sticky Strip, snail, glue dots, 1 inch Chocolate grosgrain Ribbon*

Tools: Trimmer, Bone Folder, 1 inch circle punch, border and flower punch(non SU)

* denotes on last Chance List

Gift Box Idea for notecards

2010-08-17T18:17:00.003+12:00

This morning I had set time aside for some sorely-needed organisational tasks. First task was cleaning my desk...(not my crafting table... that's another story completely!!) This is something that is an ongoing battle for me... I blogged about it in January.

I love making cards, but their purpose is to give joy to others too, and that doesn't happen if I never get around to sending them. All those little steps that are needed to get a card in the mail can be thrown off if I can't find my stamps, address book, etc.

This morning I set the timer for 30 minutes and spend time filing, throwing away papers and generally de-junking the area. I still have a bit more work to do but I can now see the top of the desk!

My next task after the timer went off was a reward... making a few note cards as a birthday gift for a colleague at work. A pretty easy job as I already had the little cup images stamped. Soon I have my little stack of notecards finished and I start to think of how to package them... the ideas kind blended with my early task of keeping my desktop clear and sending cards on time and I came up with this very easy box. It can sit just at hand on your desk, and of course its a nice packaging idea for a gift.

I have seen similar mini-file box templates on the web, but I like this because you just need your trimmer and a few simple scores with the bone folder to make it. a bit of Tombow multi purpose glue and some embellishments, fill with cards and envelopes and the gift is done. This box is sized to fit the small note cards (envelopes 9.2 x 13cm)

I was pleased with the way it turned out and the box only takes a 6 1/2 x 8 inch piece of cardstock. Let me know if you would like me to write a quick tutorial for the gift box.

Maybe its time to revive my goal from January of sending a card a week... this week is going well, with two cards already given.

Here is the one I gave to a friend today.

Another one using the peony from the Asian Artistry Level 2 Hostess set.. I have also used another scrap of Bella Rose Designer paper and Kiwi Kiss cardstock... all items that will be no longer available come 31 August 2010. Hold a workshop with me before the end of the month so you don't miss out on these Last Chance items: I still have some dates available. As well as all the usual Hostess benefits you will receive a filled note card gift box similar to the one shown previously as a special thank you from me.

Dates available: Monday 23 August, Wednesday 25 August, Sunday 29 August, Monday 30 August.
Email me to book your time.

Open Home: Last chance to win

2010-08-15T05:00:00.004+12:00

We had lots of fun poring over the current catalogue and the Last Chance list at my Open Home today. Everyone made a Father's day card (so organised! its still 3 weeks away) and we enjoyed mini cupcakes and a delicious Hungarian walnut cake. Thanks Beata, it was a real treat.

It was a miserable winter's day in Auckland, so thank you for coming out. Everyone who attended got one entry in the draw for a Hostess Level 1 set just for being there, and then another entry for every $50 worth of products ordered.

If you couldn't make it today, you still have one last chance to be in the draw. Place an order of over $50 with me by 6pm Sunday 15th August and you will get a ticket in the draw. Order over $100 and you will get 2 entries etc, plus you will also qualify for my August promotion of a free new Ideas Book and Catalogue 2011 (worth $15.95) as soon as they are available in early September.

Some items on the Last Chance List are running low, and all are only available while stocks last. Don't miss out: take some time today to sit down with a cuppa and check out the special discounts of 50% off and 25% off available on some retiring products, then email me with your order.

RGB Tutorial: how to match your Printer Fonts to Stampin' Up colours

2010-08-14T20:06:00.010+12:00

In my previous post I showed you the Father's Day card we made at my Open Home today (in New Zealand we celebrate Father's Day on the first Sunday in September, so its coming up soon). I created the custom "Father's Day" phrase using my computer and printer. I used RGB values to match to my Pacific Point star image from the Starring You set (retiring).

Here's a quick tutorial showing you how I did it. This is my first online tutorial so I would appreciate any feedback. Please email me if you have any questions.

I am using Microsoft Word Office 2007, but this will be similar in other versions of Word. (If you are using a Mac, congrats, I hope to make the change soon. But in the meantime I can't help you!)

In Microsoft Word, draw a text box and format it to the size you want. I planned to use my word window punch to punch out the phrase once it was printed, so I made my text box 1 x 5 cm.

Then choose your font and type your phrase in the text box. I used Harrington. Adjust your font size until the whole phrase fits within the text box. I used Font size 18 in bold. Format so the phrase is centred in the text box.

To set the colour, highlight the text, right mouse click and choose Font from the drop-down menu. (there are other effects here you may want to play around with later)

Click on "font colour", then choose "more colours". Then click on Custom tab

Now type in the RGB values in the appropriate space. For Pacific Point the RGB is 0/126/179. This will automatically convert your text to the correct colour.

To print out, first I print out onto a sheet of ordinary printer paper. (You can load a whole A4 sheet of cardstock in your printer, but this is how I do it when I am printing a one-off phrase)

Then.... this is the important part... remember to format your text box in the Colour and Lines tab to "No Colour" before you print your final copy.

Otherwise you will have a black line around your text. I don't do it until the second print stage because the box helps me line up my scrap cardstock in the right place on the printer paper.

Use a piece of cardstock a little larger than your text box and adhere the top edge to the printer paper so it covers the text box. This is a great time to use the removeable dotto adhesive.

Put the printer paper with attached cardstock back in the printer paper tray and re-print. (you need to know which way your printer loads so you can put the paper back in the correct way up) Remove the cardstock from the paper, punch out with word window.

Use on your project.

I found a great list of RGB values on Marni Levett's website for all the colours in the brand-new Ideas Book and Catalogue. This catalogue and all the goodies will be available from 1 September. Contact me to pre-order the catalogue, or get one free when you place an order over $100 by 31 August.

Last chance Open Home today

2010-08-14T10:50:00.001+12:00

One of the stamps sets I'll be using at my Open Home this afternoon is Starring You, which is sadly retiring at the end of the month. Good news for you... its 25% off while stocks last! Great value at only $21.71 (plus shipping) Email me to place your order.

I have used two of the stamps from the set on the card: the Happy circle star and the star background at the top of the card. This card is a complete "case" from the current catalogue and also uses the gorgeous designer paper Holiday Treasures which I have featured in my Spotlight on Christmas bundle in my previous post. Its good to see how versatlie these double-sided papers are.

Now I don't have a Father's Day sentiment in my collection... yet. So I have printed the phrase out on my printer using a scrap of whisper white card stock. Then I punched it out using the word window punch. Perfect! I have matched the RGB values to the Pacific Point ink I used for the stamp. Matching your computer-generated fonts to your Stampin' Up inks and papers also gives a really pulled-together look when you are printing inserts for your cards. I did this on the invites for my mid-winter Christmas dinner recently and was so pleased with the result.

Is RGB just another TLA to you.. (three letter acronym) Baffled by the jargon? This is such a cool thing to add to your cardmaking repetoire and easy too. I'm working on a short tutorial and plan to have it posted by the end of the weekend.

In the meantime I need to prepare for the Open Home this afternoon 3-7pm... please do call in if you are in the vicinity of Pakuranga... phone me on 0211012192 for directions.

Spotlight on Christmas: 25% off

2010-08-13T15:27:00.005+12:00

I've put together a suggested Christmas bundle that takes advantage of the discounts in the Last Chance List, and will enable you to quickly put together 20 gorgeous co-ordinated Christmas cards and envelopes. Whew! another job off the Christmas "to-do" list.

Spotlight on Christmas Bundle includes:

Spotlight on Christmas stamp set of 6 stamps (see page 28 in the catalogue)
1 Pack of Holiday Treasures Designer Paper (12 sheets of double-sided 12x12inch papers)
1 pack of Old Olive striped 1/2 inch grosgrain ribbon
1 Ruby Red classic Stampin' ink pad (or other classic inkpad of your choice)
2 sheets each of 4 colours of co-ordinating A4 cardstock
a set of 20 whisper white C6 envelopes and matching cards

for $100 including shipping. But remember stocks are only available while stocks last, or till 31 August, which ever comes first. Your $100 spend will also qualify you for a complimentary 2011 Stampin' Up Ideas Book and Catalogue and I will also send you instructions for 2 3D projects using the leftovers.

Email me to place your order

Last Chance Hostess Sets

2010-08-03T23:00:00.003+12:00

Would you love to own one of the hostess sets in the current Ideas Book or Autumn mini catalogue? August is your last chance to receive one of these sets as part of your hostess benefit. Contact me to book a workshop this month, or gather orders from your friends for a virtual workshop. As a special thank you, all customers ordering over $100 (before shipping) this month will receive a new 2010-2011 catalogue (recommended retail $14.95) as soon as they are available in early September.

The card above features the Hostess level 2 set from the Autumn mini catalogue, Asian Artistry. It also uses the retiring Kiwi Kiss cardstock, and the retiring Melon Mambo ribbon from the Autumn mini. I love this set which has 3 gorgeous feature images, a fantastic phrase and a delightful dragonfly. I have used the set for a teen birthday, sympathy card, friendship swap for regional training and the above 80th birthday card for my aunt. Even more impressive these cards have all been given away! Don't delay, book now, as workshop sales must be finalised by 31 August.

Last Chance

2010-08-03T10:18:00.000+12:00

Now that August is here we are counting down til the launch of the new Ideas Book and Catalogue on 1 September. Contact me now to pre-order your Ideas Book. Or get one free when you book a workshop in September or place an order over $100 in August!

In the meantime it is your Last Chance to order retiring stamps and accessories from the current catalogue. There are even discounts on selected products (with that familiar caveat: while stocks last!)

I will do my best to feature some of the specials and last chance products on my blog over the next couple of weeks, but why not call in to my place in Pakuranga on Saturday 14th August between 2 and 5pm. Share coffee and cake, make a free project, there may even be some sneak peaks of the new catalogue items! And I'll be highlighting the last chance items. That way you won't miss out on things you love that will be gone forever after 31 August!

In my card featured today I have used the phrase from the Starring You stamp set. This set is great for masculine-themed cards, graduations and celebrations... and it works well for more feminine cards too. Sadly its retiring, but great news for you... its discounted this month: only $21.71 for a set of 4 stamps. You can find it on page 141 of the catalogue. I'm also using it in my Boyz to Men class this Sunday: the focus is on masculine cards, just in time for Fathers Day. Many people find it hard to create cards for the men in their life.... come and stock up. We'll be making 3 cards and a gift holder. The designs are suitable for many ages and occasions. Click for more details, or contact me to book.

My first Blog Hop: Be of Cheer for Christmas comes more than once a Year!

2010-07-24T11:00:00.033+12:00

I hope you’re ready for the ESAD Christmas in July Blog Hop!

Welcome to those who have hopped here from Bev Watts' blog.

I had fun creating traditional green white and red Christmas crafts: a 6x6 inch scrapbook page, a treat container, greeting cards and a tag box full of tags. The tag box would be great for chocolate truffles or other sweet treats that need "luxe" presentation.

The scrapbook page used real red, whisper white and old olive cardstock. I have stamped the white strip with stamps from the Season of Joy stamp set. The title uses Schoolbook serif plus another Season of Joy stamp for the "O". I used 2 circle punches and the corner rounder for the scallop border. A touch of journalling with an old olive marker and a little glitter and another page is ready for the album!

At our team training meeting on Thursday, my upline Donna taught us how to make a sour cream container: what an easy an effective little treat container: It can be made any size, so it is very versatile. My version used quarter of an A4 sheet. Just the right size for a few sweets, a special soap, or even jewellery. You could even used this for a Christmas decoration, or "snapless" cracker. I have used Season of Joy again for the background, This would be even even easier with the So Swirly wheel, but I don't own that... yet! The tag uses the curly Label Punch Bunch set.

My divided tag box used the tutorial from SplitCoast stampers here. I had fun filling it with tags using diferent techniques. It has an acetate lid, which makes for great presentation. I have used Old Olive Grosgrain ribbon and the curly Label Punch Bunch set again for the tag.The tag set would make a lovely secret santa or hostess gift.

What is ESAD?

ESAD stands for Extra Special Australasian Demonstrators and it is an online group just for Australian and New Zealand demonstrators for Stampin’ Up!

So if you are a Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator located in Australia or New Zealand then please feel free to click here to join our wonderful group.

Thanks for spending time here: now its time to see the cool projects on Melissa's blog

Blog Hop Sneak Peak

2010-07-23T11:52:00.001+12:00

I've been getting in the groove for the ESAD blog hop this Saturday and my old olive and real red are getting put through their paces with some traditional Christmas-colour cards and tags. I still love the classic red, green and white for Christmas. Here is a sneak peak of one of the projects. Check back tomorrow for all the goodies!

Gelato Stars: definitely scrappy

2010-07-20T21:01:00.000+12:00

A Quick Share of the quilt I finally finished for my niece's 13th birthday. The fabrics were all hand dyed many years ago with the Chris Behersing's creative quilting group at Anchorage Park Community House.

My First Regional Training Day

2010-07-16T22:49:00.000+12:00

Can't believe a week has gone by since the Stampin' Up! Training Day in Parnell. I had a great day, meeting up with friends old and new! Appropriately enough "friends" was also the theme of my swap card above. I love the jewellery tag punch matched with the tiny tags stamp set (one of the stamps on special this month) I used soft suede ink combined with real red and kraft cardstock and taffeta ribbon. I am pleased with how this turned out: and I made 15 to swap. I will share some of the other lovely art works I received in return over the next week

New Scallop Envelope Die now in Play

2010-06-26T09:48:00.000+12:00

Made a cute set of 4 notecards with matching envelopes, and a box to hold them all. The Scallop Envelope die makes it so simple especially paired with the 2 step bird punch! I'll share some more ideas and photos later today....for now I am off to play

3D boxes

2010-06-13T07:00:00.001+12:00

I have been getting a lot of enjoyment out of making little 3D boxes for gift giving. This is a perfect size for holding a set of 3x3 inch cards, or chocolates, tea bags, even jewelry!

This little box is made from the Designer Paper Raspberry Tart, that just happens to be on special this week. Looks great for boxes, because its double-sided. I then stamped a couple of images from the Baroque Motifs set, punched them out with circle punches and added a silver brad. I attached it with dimnsionals to act as a simple closure for the flap.

For full details on the specials of the week click here

Learning Together!

2010-06-12T07:00:00.003+12:00

Yesterday we had our first full mini team meeting: got together with 3 other local Stampin Up Demonstrators to exchange ideas, and try some techniques.

This is the little card I demo'ed. Simple but sweet. I cased this idea from another NZ demonstrator (I'll add the link as soon as I find it!). Its a quick idea but it still show stamping, punching, sponging, adding glitter and embellishments.

Here is the link to my instructions

My first workshop projects

2010-06-11T15:11:00.003+12:00

Here are the samples I created for my very first Stampin' Up workshop. I am really pleased with them: so much variation possible from the one stamp set: Pick a Petal. We made the first card in the new Melon Mambo colour from the Autumn-Winter mini catalogue. This is definitely one for the girls! its a fresh bright pink, without being harsh.

Then we made a little 3x3 inch notecard using the "flower centres" also from Pick a Petal. I got the inspiration for this card from my upline, Donna.This is a great graphic look which makes it perfect for those who like it clean and simple, or for a more masculine feel. I have used some linen thread and attached a sentiment using Tiny Tags and the medium jewelery tag, both from the Autum/Winter mini catalogue.

List of materials

Pink Birthday Card:

Stamps: Pick a Petal, Basic Words

Card: Whisper White, Melon Mambo, Chocolate Chip

Ink: Melon Mambo, Chocolate Chip

Accessories: Melon Mambo Polks Dot Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensionals

Tools: 1 inch circle Punch, Word Window, trimmer, snail

Thanks so much Note Card:

Stamps: Pick a Petal, Tiny Tags

Card: Whisper White, Chocolate Chip

Ink: Baha Breeze, Chocolate Chip, Kiwi Kiss

Accessories: Linen Thread

Tools: Medium jewelry tag, trimmer, snail

Friends Note Card:

Stamps: Pick a Petal, Tiny Tags

Card: Whisper White, Chocolate Chip

Ink: Tangerine Tango, Chocolate Chip, Kiwi Kiss

Accessories: Linen Thread

Tools: Medium jewelry tag, trimmer, snail

New Directions....

2010-05-18T17:32:00.001+12:00

My friends already know I love nothing better than to spend time with them learning and creating! So becoming a Stampin' Up demonstrator is a perfect match for me... this company has such an inspiring range for all levels of crafter, and I get the chance to play with my friends with a reliable supply of goodies.
Just preparing for my first workshop, so watch this space.... you can click through to my Demonstrator web page for some more details: http://carolanntorrie.stampinup.net

The little gift box and card were made at the first-ever Stampin' Up workshop I attended with my now upline, Donna Calley.

Catch up time today!

2010-02-13T08:23:00.002+13:00

Wow, doesn't real life get in the way of our virtual blogging life sometimes?

Despite my best intentions I am two weeks absent from this blog: My dad has had a small stroke, right at the time that all my siblings and their children were due in town. So we have had hospital visits, trips to the airport, family meetings, family dinners (21 to the table) all on top of return to school and work for me and my children.

Be patient, I am going to jump in where I am ( thanks FlyLady) and be back posting this afternoon.

In the meantime here is a card I made some time ago: I was really pleased with the happy colour combination!

One World One Heart 2010

2010-01-25T09:44:00.005+13:00

Hooray, its 25th January in New Zealand already, so its time to ride the magic carpet! I know I will be visiting many enchanting sites all around the world through the power of the internet and creative generosity.

Welcome to my infant blog: still evolving, but I hope to have a tripod this week, and seriously improve my photos. Please bear with me....

January is a time when I update my jewelry to match my summer wardrobe, so although my first love is papercraft (and thats what you will find mostly on my blog), I also love beading. For this year's giveaway I have a multistrand bracelet in reds and gold, with a little heart dangle.

To enter, please comment on this post and link to your blog by 15 February (you must have an active blog to enter). I will use random.org to select a winner that night. Send me your address and the bracelet will be on its way to you. Its as simple as that!

Week One: Welcome

2010-01-22T08:59:00.008+13:00

This card is for Anita who I bumped into in the supermarket yesterday. A nice suprise... they are back in Auckland to live after at least 6 years overseas. They move into their new house in about a week, and will be just 5 minutes walk away! So a welcome card is definitely in order.

I made the simple little house element back in October when I was visiting my brother down country with only a few craft supplies. I needed to make a card for my cousin who had just moved house, and I liked this combo so much that I made an extra. Sorry about my photo quality: next part of my grand plan is to buy a tripod. See, I told you this was going to overlap with other areas of my life.

A little sentiment and ribbon and its done! No postage stamps needed on this one as I will hand deliver, but I have found some more in my planner.

This week I also posted 2 birthday cards; one to a friend and one to my aunt: and a get-well card. I am keeping a record of what I send in a little excel spreadsheet.

Mission complete!

2010-01-21T12:42:00.003+13:00

This looks so much better! and I found $31.50 worth of stamps! I may even find some more when I declutter my craft area... but that will be another mission. I have a gorgeous gardenia from my garden on my desk to complete the makeover.
Now I am off to the Post Office to mail the bag to Anne-Maree and then to exchange the pants.

First declutter challenge

2010-01-21T09:25:00.003+13:00

As part of my card making and sending challenge for 2010 I need to be able to find a postage stamp when I need it. Obvious isn't it? but sometimes (okay, often) the reason I don't get a card posted on time or at all is because I can't find a stamp. I have them, I just can't find them when I need them. Why? well as you can see above, my writing desk is a mess. So one of my tasks today is to sort out this mess. I might even get round to returning the pants that are the wrong size, and post the bag to my friend Anne-Maree instead of having them clutter up the place. I'll let you know how I get on. I wonder how many dollars worth of new postage stamps I find.

My cardmaking challenge for 2010

2010-01-16T10:03:00.004+13:00

to make and send 52 cards (1 a week).

I struggled with this one! I wanted to make it bigger, grander, more challenging! I wanted to make it 365 cards (1 a day), all different, and blogging each one. If I was a real supercraft woman, I would be able to do that, right?

But reality check here... we are half way through January and how many have I sent? 2. How many have I blogged? none. How many have I even photographed? 1. LOL.

So I have settled on a much more realistic goal, starting now... no I have "blown it" for the year because I didn't do it perfectly from January 1.

I am going to post them here to keep me accountable, and I am going to actually send my cards out into the world to do what they are supposed to do... to give pleasure to the receiver.

I can see this is going to be an interesting challenge that is going to overlap into other areas of my life... first off I am going to have to tidy my writing desk so I can find my postage stamps!

If you stumble upon this blog, think about joining me in this challenge. I would love your feedback and tips! What are your craft goals for 2010?

The card above is a complete "case" of a Hero Arts design made for my dear friend Rose's birthday. She loves hearts and the colour blue! Its the one card I have photographed so far this year! (sorry its not a good photo either)

One World, One Heart 2010

2010-01-15T10:56:00.007+13:00

A Brand New World is waiting for you! This a fantastic web event starting 25 January. Its a must-do if you have any interest at all in creativity and the work of hand and heart. You can read all about the concept on the hostess's blog here

Last year I was a participant but I got a bit overwhelmed with the outpouring of creativity and generousity.

This time I am setting myself up for sucess and a stress-free carpet ride by finishing my giveaway first. Its done! Unbelievable... ahead of the deadline! Check back on the official start date for all the details.

World Card Making Day is finished too soon

2009-10-04T11:33:00.003+13:00

We had a wonderful afternoon yesterday, with up to 7 of us busily crafting cards. It made me very grateful to have a large craft space that I can share with my friends.

I wish I could keep on crafting today, but as I am out of town for a few days from tomorrow, some other chores must be done.

One "chore" is to write and post some of the lovely cards in my stash to some of the special people in my life.... and thats what is all about really... not hoarding those cards, but sending them out into the world to brighten someone's day. Thats my challenge to you.... post a card today! let me know how you do.

Preparing for World Cardmaking Day

2009-09-16T08:15:00.002+12:00

I started tidying up my craft room/studio last night. This is part of my preparations for World Cardmaking Day. If I am feeling extremely brave I might even take a photo of the before... because at the moment it is worse than average. I have boxes pulled out of the cupboards. And I do have a lot of STUFF after years of crafting and 5 years managing a scrapbook shop! It can be scarey, but I am not going to be intimidated! I am going to do a little each day... and I have 18 days to go!
Maybe I need a countdown gadget?? But I digress...For those of you who make it to my place on 3 October I will be delighted if you can check out my growing box of "stuff to be donated." Anything that is leftover is going to be donated to a worthy cause. I am talking about stickers and papers mainly, but there will be some stamps and pads too.
Any suggestions for the "worthy cause"?

Cards for Men

2009-09-16T08:03:00.007+12:00

I really should have aced this one, as I have 3 sons, 2 brothers, 2 brothers-in-law, and of course my Dad...but no, I still struggle with cards for the men in my life. Here are a couple I made recently. The first used the same formula as the card in my previous post, the second repeats

the star theme with some glittered stripe paper.

2009-09-08T23:10:00.003+12:00

Another card using the same cuttlebug folder and Hero Arts flower. I made a whole batch of cards with different phrases and colours on the same cream embossed background. I am really pleased with how they turned out.
I photographed this card on the dash of my car, and I am really pleased with how the sparkle showed up.

and here is another one using reverse embossing with ink, a simple phrase and a punched border. Just add a little bling and you have a super easy and quick card.

Tonight some of my crafting friends came to my place and I gave them a mini tutorial on embossing with the cuttlebug. This resulted in some more beautiful completed cards, and lots of pre-made components that will grow up to be cards one day!

2009-09-07T07:51:00.003+12:00

Now that I am getting my crafting mojo back, I am excited to see that its just under a month til World Cardmaking Day... perfect timing. Its in the middle weekend of the NZ spring school holidays. I have decided to celebrate by hosting a cardmaking session in my home. I am thinking giveaways and challenges, cupcakes for afternoon tea and lots of creative fun. Hope you can join me!

More info to come but keep the date free: Saturday 3 October, at my home in Pakuranga, 1pm til 9pm.

You can get more ideas and inspiration about this event at Moxie Fab World

My first tutorial on the web

2009-09-04T20:39:00.005+12:00

Finally have a rough copy of my first tutorial and I would love your comments. Please remember this is my first attempt and its not quite polished yet. But I have finally achieved one of my goals for this year... publishing a craft video on my blog!

And I booked today for the "build your own pizza oven" course at Karekare in October so thats another goal for 2009 on its way to completion!

Day dawns afresh

2009-09-03T08:09:00.004+12:00

Its spring! a time for new life. So its time to resuscitate my blog!
I have been busy making thank you cards for all my awesome friends who made my big 5 Oh birthday so special. You know who you are....

and I have been playing with my cuttlebug, which I bought in April and have hardly used.

Wilflowers in San Francisco

2009-04-16T19:04:00.000+12:00

Gift Compendium of Cards

2009-01-28T12:22:00.007+13:00

Just thought I would share the little gift I made this morning for my friend Ann. The pretty papers make it simple and quick, and a little stamping and ribbon finish it off.

delays in tutorial posting

2009-01-26T09:02:00.012+13:00

Having a little trouble posting my tutorial with photos, so will try a different method soon:

Update here is the link to my first ever Youtube video: its not perfect or even quite complete, but I have had so many visits to this post, there is obviously an interest! I plan to update the video over the holidays. Thanks for your interest

Materials:

chipboard
1 sheet patterned paper
10 envelopes
ribbon
double-sided tape
modpodge
stickers etc to personalise

Tuck the flap of each envelope to the inside. Then use a strip of double-sided tape in the centre of the envelope to adhere another envelope on top. Continue until you have a stack of all 10 envelopes. Make sure you only use adhesive down the centre of the envelopes or the organiser will not be able to expand. Finish up with a strip down centre of top and bottom envelope of stack.
Cover one side of both chipboard covers with the patterned paper, mitering the corners.
Add in a length of ribbon centred on the middle of the back cover.
Stick envelope stack to inside of back cover, then line up front cover and adhere.
Decorate the organiser to suit. The ribbon ties it closed when not in use. When I have it out (most of the time), I tie the ribbon loosely and pull the concertina out so the ribbon acts as a stabiliser.
I use one pocket for each colour group of scraps and it keeps it right at hand when I am creating.
Have fun

Scrap Cardstock Organised at last

2009-01-25T16:00:00.005+13:00

I have been ticking off some of my partly completed projects! and I took photos as I went so I could post my first ever online tutorial. One of my plans for this year is to learn to do video tutorials, but this will have to do for now.

So check back tonight for the tutorial and make your own desktop scrap organiser for cardstock. Tutorial is here

Last minute link to Valentines Blog Candy

2009-01-21T12:20:00.002+13:00

Check out these goodies from Three Clovers Design, just in time for Valentines Day. The closing date is 2oth January, so click over there now!

One World One Heart Giveaway

2009-01-20T19:15:00.017+13:00

The draw for the giveaway is now closed... its the morning of 13th February in New Zealand! I will announce winner later today...

Welcome to the first giveaway on my blog. Photos of the giveaways will be added soon!!

One World One Heart (OWOH) is the brainchild of the wonderfully creative Lisa Swifker, with the aim of encouraging people to explore and get to know about creative and generous artists worldwide by way of their blog. Here is is her description of OWOH...

"The original idea behind this giveaway event was to bring bloggers together from around the world who may never ordinarily meet. It closes the gap of the blog community and enables us to interact, discover new and wonderful people, and in the process possibly win a prize or many prizes along the way...This is more than wanting to win something.......that is only the means.......in the end it's about finding kindred spirits. Someone who may be fairly new to blogging, not sure how to navigate, find others and have others find them....Some are long time bloggers and in some cases well known in the art community. Whatever the case it brings all of them together...We are not solving the worlds problems nor are we curing anything nor are we changing the world. We are merely generating a closer community between humans through blogging."

JOIN IN, ITS EASY!

I will be giving away a handcrafted and stamped birthday diary including 6 birthday cards and envelopes. The perpetual diary helps remind you of loved one's birthdays from year to year, and there is a pocket for each month to keep cards, stamps and address labels on hand. The inspiration for this diary comes from my new favourite blog site Capture the Moment

I will also draw two names to each win a set of 6 gift tags. So you have 3 chances to win!

To enter in the draw, all you have to do is make a comment on this post, and be sure to include your email details so I can contact you if you are a winner.

I will draw the winners on 12 February. The draw will be done using a random number generator and I will contact the winners.

Good luck and have fun meeting new people and ideas: I am sure you will find it inspiring. If you want to find out more about the event just click on the logo, its not too late to join!

New Bling for my Wardrobe!

2009-01-19T09:24:00.005+13:00

I have been having a lot of fun making new jewellery to go with my new clothes. I hate the clothes shopping: updating my jewellery is the part I enjoy.

I made 3 new necklaces and 3 pairs of earrings... and here is the best part..... in line with my new policy of "sustainability" I managed to complete them while spending less then $5. (at the Beadhold, my favourite source of supplies and inspiration) The rest came from my stash, including leftovers from a CHA 2007 make-and-take and beads I received in a Stamphappy swap several years ago.

I also made some simple repairs on two other necklaces and a pair of earrings! And I organised my beading workbox, with all my finding in mini ziploc bags on a book ring. Wow, its really convenient, with everything at my fingertips.

oops, back from Holiday....

2009-01-13T16:33:00.004+13:00

but my blogger was stuck on transliterating into Hindi. That was very interesting!!

I have had a wonderful holiday so far. The photo is of the rocks at the bottom the garden at Langs. The holiday has been great and the weather fantastic, but now I can't wait to get back to my own space. Tomorrow I'll be back at home. Time for crafting and more in my downstairs work area. I can't call it a studio yet, but that is one of the ideas I am going to implement this year.

Christmas Card buffet

2008-12-18T07:10:00.004+13:00

About 10 days ago I attended a great class facilitated by Nic Howard at NZ Scrapbook. The focus was on Prima products with an all you can crEATe buffet of flowers, gems, ribbons and lace. So much fun. And I also got to play with Glimmermists and that was more dirty-fingered creative fun (adding colour to my hands on top of the tie dyes in the previous post!)

The best thing was the class gave you plenty of time and scope to try out new products and your own colour schemes. I made a total of 12 cards.. will try and scan the rest to share

Revisiting the 70's

2008-12-18T07:02:00.004+13:00

We had so much fun a few days ago with my teenage son and his best friend... we created some cool tie dyed T shirts and singlets. We are going to do more! but this was our first effort. Wow! so much more worthwhile to be dying with decent Procion fibre reative dyes rather than the pallid Dylon dyes I had to make do with in the 70's.

As it was our first tryout I told the boys they could choose just two colours and they chose orange and black. The single t shirt is a baby size that I made for my newest niece or nephew due in February 2009!

I think we will be doing a lot more of this in the New year

Christmas scraps

2008-11-29T16:38:00.000+13:00

Still more of my pre-stamped Christmas images, now transformed into cards that are ready to send.

Many of the images were stamped long ago, and the original stamps belong to friends. I think the summer Father Christmas belonged to Bronwen Channon! Hi Bronwen!