You're One Cool Cat

I enjoyed a fabulous weekend papercraftin'.  It was nice being able to create, just for the fun of it.

Each Idea Book cycle, we (Consultants) have the opportunity to get a unique stamp set called Petite Perks.  The set's images change each cycle and this is the adorable stamp set that is currently available.  Isn't it just darling?

I decided to make some cards using this stamp set and love what I came up with.  Of course, I cannot take full credit for is as it is a pattern out of our Originals How-To Program.

Originals - Center Focus, page 111

This book comes in a soft-bound version for just $14.95 and is what I used to create all my cards this weekend.  (Watch my blog the rest of the week with more artwork to come.)  If you do not already own this publication, it is definitely a great buy.  If you are not familiar with our How-To programs, contact me and I will provide you some details.

The paper I used for the card is from a retired special paper packet called Dotty.  Because of our white core cardstock, I was able to reflect faux stitching, having scored small marks on the back of the cardstock and then used a sanding block to reveal the stitches.  To finish off this 3 x 3 card, I included some Baker's Twine.

This card is a cutie patootie.  I am going to see what else I can create with this stamp set.  It can be yours with just a $35 order this month.  Contact me to place your order and I will add it on, paying for it and the shipping to you.

Oh yeah...I forgot to mention...I AM ON SPRING BREAK THIS WEEK!  I am looking forward to a week of fun, relaxation and papercraftin' productivity!

Be blessed!

So Much Fun!

We extended our stay in California last summer at the conclusion of the Close To My Heart National Convention.  One of the days we visited Universal Studios where we encountered many cartoon characters and took the opportunity to pose for pictures.

Click on photo for enlarged view.

My niece and her siblings took these fun pictures.  My niece is the one posing with Fievel (mouse in picture furthest to the left).  She was so excited to see him and you can tell by her warm embrace.  You can pick her out in the other photos.

I did distress the Blush cardstock by brushing the Blush inkpad over the Blush CS, directly.  It gives off this "leathery" appearance but sure made a difference to the layout.  (I should have taken a before and after photo.)  Give it a try if you haven't done so before.  And don't be afraid to mess up your cardstock.  You can apply as much or as little ink as you want.  Keep brushing the pad on the paper for a darker effect.  (I have found that by applying the ink in circles it gives for a better look.)

These photos bring back great memories of good times!

P.S.  Can you tell I used Dotty for You paper?  The polka dot pattern?  :0)

Got Dotty?

I know, I know...  I'm wearing this paper packet out but can you believe I have only used half a paper packet for all that I have created (plus some cardstock, of course) and I am not done yet?!  And, have no fear.  I have another paper packet where this one came from and I plan on ordering a few more before the month's end.  LOL  I love the bright bold colors of this paper packet!

I used the "Crafted with Love" stamp set for the focal point of this card.

The "hello" sentiment came from "A Garden" stamp set.  (I have already shared another card using this stamp set.  Click here to view it from my post from 4/28/12.)

The simplicity of a card with beautiful papers and a sweet message are what please me most.

Thanks for stopping by,

Sending Warm Wishes

I had fun making this card this past weekend using...yes, you guessed it!  The "Dotty for You" paper packet.  Have I not yet convinced you that you need a package (or two) of your own?

This time I decided to incorporate the butterfly paper from this packet.  To highlight the butterfly, I sponged a Just Blooms Flutter Paper Shape (one of the big butterflies) in Buttercup ink.  A few Colonial White small brads later and a sentiment...  I thought it came together well.

Sending you warm wishes for a blessed day,

National Scrapbook Day Event

I am fresh and rejuvenated today after spending the weekend croppin' with my scrapbooking friends and team members in celebration of National Scrapbook Day.

We gathered at my friend Angie's retreat and on Saturday...there were 20 of us scrappin'!  It was a great time and just what I needed.

As hostess, I usually try and make a few goodies for my guests and I am thankful that I pulled through with some easy but goodies.  LOL

This is a sticky note holder made with the Cricut, using our exclusive Art Philosophy cartridge.  I followed the directions from my friend Pamela O'Connor's blog.  It was super easy, came together super quick and is purposeful.  Gotta love when all those things come together for a fun treat!

Upon arrival, each guest had this place card sitting at their spot.  I should have taken a side view photo of it as there are three Hershey's kisses housed inside.  This idea came from a retreat favor made by a team adoptee, Wanda Cincar.

And lastly...this cute little purse, which holds a Hershey's Nugget, is perfect for this time of the year, especially with Mother's Day around the corner.  It would make a cute favor for a tea, baby shower, etc.  I believe I first saw this made by my friend, Debi McBain, and I have created it a couple of times since.

All of these items were made using our May-exclusive "Dotty for You" paper packet (only available through the end of the month).

Everyone seemed to love their goodies and I am thankful.  I love making things that put a smile on the faces of those who receive them.  

I had a fabulous weekend and am thankful to Angie for allowing us to invade the house!  

Happy Monday,