CTMH Christmas Crafts Blog Hop

Welcome to our Blog Hop where we are featuring Christmas Crafts made with Close To My Heart products.  Do you have people on your list who are challenging to buy for?  I do and when that's the case a thoughtful gift, in perfect packaging, usually does the trick in putting a smile on their faces.

If you are coming from Aggie's Blog, you are on the right track. A complete list of participants is provided at the end of this post.  Let's get this fun started!

I fell in love with these Pint Containers when they were first released this summer at Convention.  I decided to pull one out and decorate it for this hop, recognizing they are perfect for filling with goodies - cookies, chocolate, socks, smell goods, etc.  They are a perfect size - not too big and not too small as Goldilocks would say.  There are a variety of ways to decorate these containers.  Because I wanted to cover mine in paper, and they are not a perfect rectangle because of their shape, I decided to take apart one container to make a pattern.  (The pattern will be provided HERE - by noon today CST.  I was forced to cut it into two pieces so you will have two seams, allowing it to print on standard-size paper.)  I traced the pattern in this beautiful B&T paper from our White Pines paper pack.  The stocking was cut from our Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge, three times - on Colonial White, Olive cardstock and the chevron patterned paper from White Pines.  The colonial white stocking was used as the base and the other pieces were cut and glued on top.  Green Shimmer Trim was added to the rim of the container, for some sparkle.

For the lid, I took a Cocoa piece of cardstock, cut a circle to fit and ran it through my Cuttlebug using the Dot Embossing Folder.  For the added texture, I distressed it using our Sanding Block (from the Sanding Kit).  The big bow was cut out of Cranberry cardstock, using the Artiste Cricut Cartridge.  A Bling Gold Gem and Gold Shimmer Trim were added, for the finishing touch.  I love how it turned out and cannot wait to fill it and gift it.

If you would like to make one of your own, be sure to grab the pattern above.  I would love to see what you create as well as what you decide to fill it with.  What suggestions do you have for fillings?

Now, how on over to Marianne's Blog to see her fun creation!  Happy hoppin'!

Blog Hop Participants:

1.  Melissa Robinson *YOU ARE HERE*

2.  Marianne Hancock

3.  Melissa David 

4.  Tonya Whitehurst

5.  Katy Taylor

6.  Aggie Peters

Merry Christmas Eve!

These are some of the fun Christmas cards I made this year using the Snowhaven Workshop on the Go Cardmaking Kit.  There were super easy and fun to create; my perfect combination!  Did you know there is a card kit for Valentine's Day?  There is!  It's called Workshop on the Go Heartstrings Cardmaking Kit.  You'll have to check it out.  I'll be highlighting it as we head into 2015!

 Aren't these just the cutest cards with the perfect sentiments and embellishments?  I should have told you all I came up with the designs!  LOL

Love the look this card gives off by slanting the paper but it was super easy to do!  Love it!  And the Red Enamel Hearts...one of my faves!

This card was fun, using the tree border at the top.  

May you have merry days and not-so-silent nights (that makes for BORING - lol) this holiday season.  I hope you are enjoying a wonderful evening wherever you are in this magnificent world. 

Merry Christmas Eve!

Love & Good Cheer

This card was fun to make using the sketch shown at the end of this post.  I have fun trying new patterns and seeing what I can make of them.

Using the stamp set included with the Workshop on the Go Snowhaven Cardmaking Kit and Single Snowflake - which just costs $2.95 - I kept this card pretty simple.  I loved adding our Grey Glittler Paper and Pink and White Glitter Gems to add some glitz to the card.  Of course, I had to add 3-D Foam Tape for some added dimension.

I used our ShinHan markers to color/highlight the images and...  Do you notice the "cardstock" borders match the markers exactly?  That is because I used the broad side of the marker to color in the edges of white cardstock so they would match.  Too fun and easy, right?!  Love that I can make the cardstock match perfectly to any marker color I choose!

Here is the sketch I used from Freshly Made Sketches.

We enjoyed chilly temperatures and some snow yesterday - perfect for setting the mood for the holidays and a reason to stay inside and create!  Have a great week!

Cut Above Cafe' - Christmas Goodies Workshop

Don't you just love artwork creations that do not require any cutting but instead, just some adhesive and easy assembly?  I do!  And...it is not too much for you to expect just that!

We have an awesome new product line called "Cut Above", designed for just that reason.  You can join me on November 29th, in Mansfield (TX), for just $10, where you will walk away having created one of each of the items below.  This workshop provides you an opportunity to create a sampling of these products, allowing you to choose which you want to order and assemble for the holidays.

Click this link for more details on this class.  You can even purchase the class if you are long-distance from me.

I look forward to you joining me for some craftin' fun!  Wishing you a great weekend!

October Stamp of the Month Blog Hop - Home for the Holidays

There are 73 Close To My Heart Consultants participating in this Blog Hop showcasing the October Stamp of the Month, "Home for the Holidays".  It can be yours during the month of October for just $5 with a qualifying purchase.  You can find more details here.

If you are coming from Dawn's Blog, you are on the right track!  If you get lost along the way please visit Adeline's Blog for a complete listing of participants.

I had fun making this card and believe it or not, it came together - from start to finish - in about 10 minutes!  I was so proud of myself!  I used some of our Paper Fundamentals Whimsy Assortment for the two Glacier pieces of paper included on both sides of the card.  I reversed the pieces.  The texture on the far pieces are not visible in these photos but they contain the same pattern as seen on the other strip of paper but it has a wet-embossed look.  It really is too fun.  These papers have two sides and both provide different options for your artwork.

I could not resist adding some Silver Shimmer Trim and a few embellishments items to include: Slate Baker's Twine, Clear Bitty Sparkles (placed on the snowflakes), Black Bitty Sparkles (for his eyes), and one Blue Epoxy Bubble for one final touch.  (I did include the "Happy Holidays" sentiment from the Holiday Tags stamp set.)

It was fun using non-typical Christmas colors for the card and I am pleased how it came out.  I hope you like it too!  Here is a close-up of the embellishments for a different view.

I appreciate you stopping by and hope you will leave a comment before hopping over to Casandra's Blog.  Have fun checking out all the fun artwork showcasing this exclusive stamp set!  Enjoy the rest of your week!

Happy hoppin'!

Cut Above Christmas Treats

In July, CTMH released a new product line called, "Cut Above".  They are quick kits that are ready to assemble upon arrival.  The kit that I am highlighting today is called "Cut Above Holiday Treat Bag Kit", streamlined for Christmas.  

The kit comes with 10 - 5" x 3 1/2" Printed Treat Bags (5 each of 2 designs), 5 - 4" x 6" Sheets of 3/4" Stickers, 12 - 1 1/2" White Daisy Circles, 12 - 3-D Foam Squares, and 10 - 5" x 3 1/4" Cellophane Bags.  

The treat bag was simple to assemble.  The stickers are perfect for adhering to a candy that is shaped similar to those you see here.  (My favorite candy to use would be Rolos.  They can be bought where they are individually wrapped but I could not find them at the time I created this so I chose some other off-brand candies that work just as well.  I don't know that they taste as good as Rolos but they worked for this purpose.  LOL)

The treat bags are scored which makes them easy to fold and then you stamp your chosen greeting on the pre-cut circles and put it all together.  (There are directions included with the kit.)

I used the "Sweet Salutations" stamp set for my greeting and can see a lot of potential for these cute images whether they be used for cards, gift tags... I am sure the possibilities are limitless.  (With them surrounded by a pink outline, this indicates there is a Cricut image - from one of our exclusive cartridges - that can be easily cut and then stamped with an image that coordinates.  You will see the image is to be cut at 1 1/2" which eliminates any guessing or wasted paper.  Too cool, right?!)

While it might be a little too early to start preparing for Christmas, I just had to get my hands on these kits to try them out for myself.  I love them!  These would be perfect for co-workers, teachers, friends of your children; really they are perfect for anybody!

I pray your week has started out in a blessed way and continues so.  Happy Tuesday and have a Rolo on me...wherever you are!  :)

It's Still Christmas!

An unintentional hiatus was taken from blogging during the last couple of weeks of school before the winter break.  And since then...some much needed rest and relaxation!  I was up to my ears in tasks and responsibilities and they have not disappeared.  I just am vowing not to work on those not-so-fun tasks until Monday.  When that day arrives, I will do so little by little...

I do love this time of the year, especially when I do not live in an extremely cold area.  I can appreciate the cooler temperatures, the beautiful Christmas decorations, and the yummy smells of the holiday season.  Christmas sure is different these days as a grown person.  :)  I remember, when I was a little girl...  On Christmas Eve we would go look at Christmas lights in the area, giving time for Santa to make a stop by our house.  We always knew he would come during that ride so we could not wait to leave...and return.

What I do appreciate about being an adult, is truly valuing the meaning of Christmas.  It is not about the gifts.  It is about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.  "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."  (John 3:16)

I am thankful for many things in my life including my Lord and Savior, my hubby, my family (parents, sister, grandpa, niece, in-loves), my health and my career.  I am truly blessed and thank God for bringing me into this world to enjoy a blessed life.  

It is hard to believe there are just three days remaining in 2013.  I cannot wait to see what God has in store for me and my family in 2014!  Have a blessed weekend and...

(We'll see how that all turns out. LOL)

Cyber Monday Sale - ALL WEEK LONG!

In honor of Cyber Monday and not having to fight the crowds for your holiday shopping needs, I am offering a little special of my own through the end of the day Saturday.  Please continue reading below the notice for complete details on how you can make the most of your purchase.

As noted above, with every $50 purchase you can select one of our exclusive MyReflections paper packets for FREE!  You can choose from:  Laughin Lola, Sarita, ProPlayer, Babycakes, Huntington or Frosted.  Click here to view your options.  Your FREE item will be sent to you separately no later than December 10th.

In addition to the free paper packet, you can also collect on additional FREE product with every $100 you purchase.  Choose one "star" item from the Holidays from the Heart Gift Guide FREE.  You will be prompted for this selection as you place your order.  Star items include:

• Sparkle & Shine Paper Packet (X7176B)
• Sparkle & Shine Complements Dimensional Elements (X7176C)
• Magical Days Stamp Set (D1552)
• Santa Claus Stamp Set (C1567)
• Mary and Babe Stamp Set (C1562)
• Trim the Tree Stamp Set (A1149)
• Charming Chevrons Stamp Set (A1150)
• Lots of Love Stamp Set (A1151)
• Angel Friends Stamp Set (B1435)
• Lifting Spirits Stamp Set (C1570)
• Banner Wishes Stamp Set (B1438)

These are some cards made with some of the items from the Gift Guide.  Pretty, huh?

You can either shop online through my website or view an online copy of our Autumn/Winter Catalog and Holidays from the Heart Gift Guide.

AND...not to mention, if you place an order of just $50, you can always get the Stamp of the Month for just $5!  This is it!  Soooo cute for cards or layouts.

Look at this sample artwork, courtesy of the CTMH Art Department, using the stamp set.

To qualify your order for a drawing of a minimum of $25 in FREE products, contact me to place your order or feel free to place it online through the homepage of my website.  You will see a link for the Cyber Week party in the bottom right-hand corner of the page.

I am always available for questions should you have them.  You can contact me through phone/text (575-693-7087) or at mlisrobinson@yahoo.com.  Thank you in advance for your support of my business.

Happy shopping!

24 days until Christmas!

Can you believe Christmas 2013 is almost here?  I do not know about you but I can definitely measure how fast a year is going by judging the pace of the school year and this one...is going WAY FAST!

I am excited to post, on this first day of December, a fun Christmas card I made using a stamp set called "Wintry Wishes".  It is exclusive to Hostesses.  Isn't it cute?  I have grown to think penguins are adorable so was thrilled to get this stamp set and create with it.

I used our NEW Sparkle & Shine Paper Packet which is one of the products that was released through our Holidays from the Heart Gift Guide that was released in October.  You can still get your hands on it!  I will be sharing more artwork using this paper packet in my December newsletter and throughout the month.  It is perfect for your Christmas cards or layouts.  

I paper pieced the penguin's scarf and earmuffs.  If you do not know how to do that technique, I simply stamped the penguin image not only on the white cardstock, but also on Tulip cardstock and the striped B&T.  I cut out the respective pieces and glued it onto the full image.  Too fun, right?!

If you have followed me for long, you already know how much I love our Ribbon Trim and CTMH came out with a Red Ribbon Trim with these Christmas products.  WOOHOO!  I also put a Bitty Clear Sparkle on the center of the snowflakes and then used Silver Glitz Glitter Gel to bling up the outer parts of the snowflakes.

This card pattern came from one of our How-To Programs, Make It From Your Heart, Volume 2.  It is well worth the $7.95.

Here is a card made by the CTMH Art Department that also showcases this stamp set.

If you would like to get your hands on this stamp set or one of our other exclusive hostess sets, you simply have to have Gathering sales that total just $150.  See if a few of your friends need some products and you can earn a minimum of $25 in FREE products with just $150 party total.  You can also enter to win $25 in hostess credit by placing an order through my website.

In honor of Cyber Monday, I am offering a Cyber Special through the end of the day (MST), Saturday, December 7th. View my blog tomorrow (Monday, December 2nd) for complete details.  Click HERE to place your order through the link located on the bottom right of my webpage titled, "Cyber Week".  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

Have fun preparing for Christmas and stay warm!

Christmas in...September?!

Sure!  Why not?!

I cannot believe I created 15 Christmas cards today while watching some college football.  While I still need to make some more before December 25th arrives, it's a great start!  I think this is the first time I have ever had this nice of a head start and it feels good!  Why not join me?

These were the card samples as designed by designers at Close To My Heart.

I made 15 cards - five each of three designs - using our Frosted Workshops On the Go Card Kit (shown below).  I did switch out Olive cardstock for Cotton Candy cardstock and really like the results; just a nice and different twist.

Here are the three cards I created..  I used the guide provided with the kit and followed it almost to a "T".  It was nice not having to think but just create.

The Frosted Card Kit is just $24.95 - that's just $1.66 a card - and you still have supplies left over to make additional cards if you choose.  What a deal and who on your Christmas card list would not enjoy a handmade card from you?

If you would like to purchase a kit of your own, please visit my website.  The card kit can be found by clicking here. Let me know if you have any questions.

Merry Christmas!  (Well...kinda of!)