High Hopes Valentines

Good morning! Today's challenge at High Hopes is brought to us by the talented Michelle! She would like us to show some love with a Valentine's Day theme. At the High Hopes blog, you will find pictures of what the Divas have come up with this week. Let me tell you, these talented ladies have rocked this challenge!! You are sure to find inspiration there. You will also find details on the prize up for grabs this week. You MUST use a High Hopes image to be eligible for the prize. Now, if you do not yet own any of these fantastic stamps, there are links to retailers on the blog too!

For my card this week, I used one of the new Dustin Pike images. I used this image during our sneak peeks a couple of weeks back, but I thought I would pull out "Dragon Go Round" again, and show how it can be used for multiple occasions! I stamped the image on Neenah cardstock and then masked it before stamping it a second time. I added some "girly" eyelashes to one of the dragons, and coloured them up with Copic markers. Voila! We have a cute little dragon couple out for a romantic ride on a carousel! The sentiment is one I came up with, and printed off on my computer.

I love to stretch the possibilities of stamps! These images are so versatile.

I hope you find time to play along this week! Just link up your Valentine's creation featuring a High Hopes image on the blog for your chance to win!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: High Hopes "Dragon Go Round", my own sentiment

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers

Papers: SU cardstock, My Mind's Eye design papers

Embellishments: American Crafts ribbon, metal slider from the dollar store

Tools: Spellbinders Labels Eight

Look Through the Window

Well, I was given the opportunity to choose the challenge for Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps today! This is something I had never done before, so I was a tad nervous! I figured I would challenge you all to a technique that I had yet to try out! How about an Aperture Card?! (probably better known as a window card) I have been wanting to try this out for quite some time! I hope you find time to play along this week. If you do, make sure to use a Kraftin' Kimmie image on your project and you could find yourself the lucky winner of "Bird Fairy" from Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps!

I am absolutely in love with the fairies Crissy Armstrong drew for Kimmie's January release! Oh, they are just gorgeous! I was in one of my local stores and found some beautiful papers by KaiserCraft that were perfect for what I had in mind to create with "Bird Fairy"! I just love when that happens.

I cut the window out with Nestabilites, and used the same set to make the frame for the window. I was also able to play with my brand new Nesties (Doodle Parts and Flower Creations)! The edges of all the papers and die cuts were distressed with brown ink. Those pearls are from the dollar store!!



I stamped "Bird Fairy" on Neenah cardstock and coloured her with Copic markers. The detail in this stamp is gorgeous! I just love all the folds of her dress, and tendrils of hair. This image was so much fun to colour. The little bird is just adorable too! The sentiment used on the inside of the card comes with Bird Fairy.



I seem to reach for my browns a lot when colouring hair, so I've been trying to experiment with different colour combinations. (Funny thing...I have never tried colouring red hair, which is a bit ironic considering I am a redhead. Maybe next time!) This close-up will give you a better look at the little bird! I coloured him as a blue jay, but I think he would make an adorable cardinal too!

So, I hope you hop on over to the Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps Blog to see what the Krafty Girls have made this week. Let me tell you, these ladies are so talented...their work always amazes me! You are sure to be inspired after taking a look at their creations. Remember to use a Kraftin' Kimmie image on your submission, and you may just be the lucky owner of the "Bird Fairy" stamp I used on my card today!

See you back tomorrow for another post!

Blessings,

Melanie

p.s. It has come to my attention recently, that some people have been having problems posting comments on my blog. My apologies for this. I am trying to look into this glitch, but it seems that it may just be a random issue with Blogger. If you are having problems, please let me know! Feel free to email me. You will find the link in my profile. Thanks!

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie: "Bird Fairy" and sentiment "Let the Fairy in you Fly"
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black,Copic markers
Paper: KaiserCraft, Bazzill, Neenah
Embellishments: Pearls from dollar store, flower and swirls made with Spellbinders
Tools: Spellbinders Labels Eight, Flower Creations, Doodle Parts

A Reminder...

Hello fellow stampers!! Just a reminder that every Friday brings a new challenge over at Humble Pie Stamps! Although I do not have a card for today's challenge, the other Bakers have created some beautiful cards to get you inspired! The challenge this week is to use lots of flowers!! (a minimum of 5) The prize this week is the cute Maggie In Love stamp (several of the Bakers used this image on their cards this week). The Humble Pie stamps are available exclusively at The Town Scrapper.

Also, Phebe still has her amazing sale going on!! Everything at The Town Scrapper is buy one, get the second of equal of lesser value for 50% off!! This sale will be on until February 14, 2010..don't miss out on it!! Phebe's contact information is on her blog (her phone number is in the header, just below her blog's name).

You may use any stamp to participate in the Humble Pie Challenge, but if you do have some Humble Pie stamps, then we would love to see them!

Have fun stampers...can't wait to see what you create!

Blessings,

Melanie

One Post, Two Cards!

Today at Sweet 'n Sassy, you will find a bunch of new digis being released!! We've got several very cute images, and some fabulous sentiments to compliment them! Looking for inspiration? Well, hop on over to the Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Blog ...a different DT member posts each day! Make sure you become a follower so you will not miss out on anything! Today is my day to post, so you will find the cards shown below over at the Digi blog as well!

I chose to work with two different images. The first is called Puppy Love. What an adorable little doggy! This cutie comes with two different sentiments, one of which I used here, as well as two small bonus images (a bone and pawprints). I used the little bone from the set to make the background paper that the puppy is mounted on. I distressed all the edges, and antiqued them with Distress Inks. The puppy was coloured with Copic markers. I hand cut the large bone and antiqued that as well. Finally, the puppy was pop-dotted for dimension.

The second image I worked with is Birdie Delivery. I am totally in love with this cute image!! So, I decided that I needed a whole parade of them!! lol Now, I'm not usually successful with a "clean and simple" kind of look, but I thought I'd give it a go. It usually takes me forever to put a card together, so I was quite pleased that this one came together in about twenty minutes (not including the colouring time). As always, I coloured with my handy dandy Copics! I also had this metal embellishment kicking around in my stash...how perfect!! Gotta love it when that happens!

I had coloured the bundles different colours, so as not to be gender specific. However, if you know a couple expecting quadruplets, then this card just may be perfect for them! lol...can you image four babies all at once??!!

So, head on over to Sweet 'n Sassy to take a peek at all the new digis! Korin's digital stamps are such a reasonable price. That means you can pick up several without breaking your budget!

Have a blessed day friends!

Melanie

Stamps: Sweet 'n Sassy Digital Stamps "Puppy Love" and "Bird Delivery"
Ink: Copic markers
Paper: Bazzill, Neenah, Basic Grey, DCWV
Embellishments: Assorted ribbons, dollar store metal embellishment
Tools: Spellbinders, Bow Easy

Really??...You Want Me to "Create a Scene"??!!

Lol...you know "creating a scene" isn't always a good thing to do...at least, that's what I usually tell my kids!! HOWEVER, it is a good thing this week at High Hopes! The fabulous Alex is challenging us to CREATE A SCENE using at least 3 different High Hopes images. I really love this challenge, so thanks Alex!

I decided to use one of the new release images (have you ordered your's yet???) with a few older stamps. This is "Birthday Fish" from the Dustin Pike release. This image makes me giggle...I find it so funny!! I have been wanting to do something special with it, and this challenge gave me that opportunity! I paired him up with "Findley" and "Gilbert".(all images were stamped on Neenah cardstock and coloured with Copic markers)

I chose to go with a recessed window card. this allowed me to create a 3-D scene. I drew the fish tank and covered it in acetate to create the "glass". The outline was cut out of cardstock. The pebbles are glass beads I picked up at the dollar store.

So, our little "Birthday Fish" decided to take the party to whole new level! We all know somebody like that right...somebody who marches to the beat of their own drum?? The sentiment is one I came up with myself...I was feeling a little cheeky! (lol...I wonder if my family thinks I'm that "one"??!!) Inside is a birthday sentiment (also my own), "It's your birthday...go a little crazy!":

Look how happy our little "Birthday Fish" is...so adorable!! I tried Jeanne's water technique on the balloon, and then coated it with Glossy Accents:

Hope you all find time to enter into the High Hopes Challenge. As always, there will be a free stamp offered as a prize! Remember, you must use High Hopes images to be eligible! The Divas have posted cards over at the blog to inspire you...and let me tell you, they are fantastic! So go take a peek!

What are you waiting for? How many times in life will you be given permission to "GO MAKE A SCENE"??!!

Melanie

Stamps: High Hopes "Birthday Fish", "Findley" and "Gilbert"

Paper: Neenah, DCWV, DP from my stash

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers

Embellishments: Dollar store glass beads

No Embellishments...gasp!!

Oh Happy Saturday!!! I hope you all have a fantastic weekend planned...perhaps with a bit of stamping time?

We have another new challenge for you over at Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps! This one is brought to us by my fellow guest designer Donna Wardle. She is challenging us to use NO EMBELLISHMENTS!! She would like to see your colouring skills shine through, so that means NO buttons, NO ribbons, No brads...bare bones stampers!! She has graciously allowed us to use "paper embellishments", so that opens up paper punches, die cuts, etc. So let's see that gorgeous colouring! Oh, but make sure to use a Kraftin' Kimmie image if you want to be eligible for the prize!

Today, I have used one of Kimmie's older images. This is Francesca. That hat is awesome! I wish I was funky enough to pull off wearing one just like that! lol I stamped Francesca on Neenah cardstock and coloured her up with Copic markers.

I also followed the sketch for Sketch Saturday. Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps is the sponsor over there, so make sure to enter in that one too. You'll be doubling your chances at winning some Kraftin' Kimmie goodies!

Blessings!

Melanie

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps "Francesca"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers

Paper: Neenah, Imaginesce, Bazzill

Tools: Martha Steward Punch, small flower punch

Someday My Prince Will Come

Good morning stampers!! I would just like to start off today's post by saying a big THANK YOU to everybody who takes the time to come by and look at my blog. I love to read your comments, and truly appreciate all the kind words. I understand that we are all busy, so thank you again for taking the time out of your day. You ladies (and gents?? perhaps??) ROCK!!

So, if you are a regular visitor here, you will already know that every Thursday new digital stamps are released at Sweet 'n Sassy!! Korin has so many fantastic images, and the prices are incredible!! You are sure to find something to tickle your fancy! So after reading my post, please stop by the Sweet 'n Sassy store to check out all the stamps!! Also, make sure you pop in to the Sweet 'n Sassy Digi blog. A different team member posts everyday, so you are always bound to find fresh inspiration there!

My card today features the two new images "Heart Princess" and "Fenton the Frog". Now, how perfect are these two for a "princess and the frog" theme?? Korin has also released three sentiment sets today. I used one sentiment from the "Princess Seeks Frog" set. (The other two sets are "A True Friend" and "Love Sentiments 1".)

I printed my images out onto Neenah cardstock and coloured them with Copic markers. The trim on the dress was "blinged" up (I love how we can just make up words to suit our fancy!!) with Frosted Lace Stickles, and Fenton received a generous coat of Glossy Accents.

It's a little difficult to see, but I sponged in a sky using a make-up sponge and a cloud template.

Now, we have some extra fun for you all today!! You can hop on over to Paper Craft Planet for Sweet 'n Sassy's Digi Day!! Join in for a challenge, chatting and PRIZES!!! Yup, free digis my friends!! You will find all the details on the Sweet 'n Sassy group at PCP. I'm hoping to hop on for a bit after work, and I'm looking forward to connecting with all of you!

Have a blessed day friends!

Melanie

Stamps: Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Stamps "Heart Princess", "Fenton Frog", "Princess Seeks Frog" sentiment set Paper: Bo Bunny, My Mind's Eye, Neenah Cardstock,Bazzill Ink: Copic markers Tools: Various Spellbinders Embellishments: Dollar Store ribbon, Prima Hydrangea, flat backed rhinestone, Glossy Accents, Stickles

IT'S HIGH HOPES RELEASE DAY!!!

The candy is now closed. Check in at the High Hopes blog (link below) later today to see who the big winners are!! (Edited on January 23, 2010)

Today is the day you have been waiting for stampers!! It's release day for the Dustin Pike stamps at High Hopes Stamps!!! If you have been following the High Hopes Blog, you know that the Divas have been bringing you sneak peeks of the new stamps over the last few days. Well, today we are having a BLOG HOP to celebrate...and there are prizes to be won!! Want to know what you could win?? One lucky stamper will win the grand prize of an entire set of the new release!! There will also be three other winners chosen to win a stamp package!! That's FOUR prizes in all, so make sure to leave comments on each Diva's blog along the way!

If you arrived at my blog from the talented Karen's blog, then you are on the right track!! If not, the HOP starts over at the High Hopes Blog! You will find the order of the hop listed there!

Today, I am showing you a card featuring the stamp "Sir Dustin". This is one of my favourites from the new release!! I also used one of the brand new sentiments from this release..." I may look tough and on "attack", but it's good to know you've got my back!" One thing I always struggle with is making cute boy cards. I LOVE that this new release has many stamps that will be fantastic for making masculine cards!! Of course, they can always be "girlied" up too!!



Check out the look on the little knight's face!! Priceless! lol Not sure he's thrilled to have a dragon backing him up! These images are just so much fun to colour...and the quality of rubber is fantastic! You will have no problems achieving a nice sharp image. I stamped, as always, on Neenah cardstock and coloured with my Copic markers.

Have you picked out your favourites yet?? You still have several Divas to visit, and your next stop is the amazing Jeanette. She is sure to have something gorgeous for you to see! In case you get lost along the way, here's the order:

High Hopes Blog
Amy L
Danielle
Jeanne
Sirpa
Nikki
Karen
Melanie
Jeanette
Amy W
Lacey
Alex
Michelle

The candy will close Friday 22, 2010 at 8:00 pm EST, so make sure you leave those comments!! You could be the winner of one of the four fantastic prizes !!


So off you go!! You can check out the online catalogue over at High Hopes Stamps. There are links there and on the High Hopes Blog for retailers who will be carrying the new release(look for the little hippo on the right side of the page)!! Several of our Divas have online stores too...so no excuses!! Find a store nearby or get online and order yours now!! The sooner you order, the sooner you can be stamping!!

Have a blessed day!

Melanie

Stamps: High Hopes "Sir Dustin", "I may look tough and on attack, but it's good to know you've got my bakc!"
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers
Paper: Neenah, Basic Grey, Bazzill, (not sure of the company of the metallic cardstock)
Embellishments: Flat-backed rhinestones (Walmart)
Tools: Spellbinders Circles, Scalloped Circles, Fancy Tags

High Hopes Sneak Peeks Continue!!! (Day 3)

Have you all been enjoying the sneak peeks of the upcoming Dustin Pike release for HIGH HOPES STAMPS??!! If you missed out on Sunday or Monday's peeks, head over to the High Hopes Challenge Blog to find a list of participating Divas!! Your wait is almost over stampers!! The release happens TOMORROW...January 20, 2010!!! We are having a BLOG HOP tomorrow to celebrate the new release...and of course, there will be PRIZES!! But, I am getting ahead of myself! lol You will find another list at High Hopes for the Divas bringing you previews for today!!

Here's my sneak peek:

So, my card today features the stamp "Dragon Go Round", and one of the brand new sentiments from the release, "May Your Day Overflow With Fun". I am just in love with these adorable dragons by Dustin! I also LOVE horses, so this image was irresistible to me! I stamped the image on Neenah, and coloured it with Copic markers.

Make sure to check out all the sneak peeks today, and don't forget to check back with us tomorrow for the BLOG HOP!! Trust me, you DO NOT want to miss out! Check out THIS post at High Hopes for information on a PRIZE!

I hope you are excited about this release...I know I am!! The Divas have had so much fun playing with these images, and I know you will too! You can find links at High Hopes for retailers who will be carrying these new images! Several of the Divas have online stores too, so make sure to get an order in quickly as I'm sure these stamps will be flying off the shelves!!

See you tomorrow!!!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: High Hopes "Dragon Go Round", Sentiment "May your day overflow with fun!"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers

Paper: Bazzill, Neenah, Daisy Buckets

Tools: Spellbinders Ovals, Scalloped Ovals, Ribbon Tag Trio

Embellishments: Ribbon (sorry, picked this up from a fabric store and I'm not sure of the company)

My Guy

Ok, so I am a bit behind on posting this card...I actually said I'd post it last week, but the days got away on me!! This is a card I made for Phebe at The Town Scrapper! Last time I was out to see her, I snagged this great stamp set called "My Guy Ian" from The Greeting Farm. I have been wanting this set for quite some time. I don't know about you, but I often struggle with masculine cards. I figured this set would help me out with that!!





The set "My Guy Ian" includes two "Ian" images and several sentiments...what a great set to have! Today, I am sharing a card featuring one of these "guys". I stamped Ian and coloured him up with Copic markers...gee, do you all get tired of me saying that?? I decided to pair him up with some fabulous papers from the Basic Grey collection called "Origins" (you can purchase this paper at The Town Scrapper). There are several designs in this pack that lend themselves to a more masculine feel. Obviously with a masculine card, you want nothing "frou frou" on it, so I opted to go with a brad from the Basic Grey Sugar Rush line, twine and a vellum heart. I stamped the sentiment "Hey Dude" on the heart...which is part of the stamp set. Actually, there are several sentiments in this set. It's quite the bargain!



If you are close to Petrolia, Ontario make sure to plan a visit out to The Town Scrapper to check out all the fantastic stamp lines and supplies Phebe carries. If you are too far away to make the drive, give Phebe a call for information about placing an order with her!! You can find her contact information on her blog here. Oh, and I have some great news!!! Phebe is extending her BUY ONE, GET ONE OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE FOR 50% OFF sale until February 14, 2010!!! So, no excuses...call her today so you don't miss out on this deal!

Have a wonderful, blessed day!!

(ps...don't be shy! leave me a comment to let me know you were visiting...I love company!!)

Blessings!

Melanie

Stamps: The Greeting Farm "My Guy Ian"

Paper: Neenah, Bazzill, Basic Grey "Origins"

Ink: Memento, Copic

Embellishments: Vellum Heart, Twine, Basic Grey Brad

Aleins, dragons and stars....oh my!!!

Oh, I am SO EXCITED today!!! Not only do we have a brand new challenge over at High Hopes, but the Diva's cards are all featuring sneak peeks of the upcoming DUSTIN PIKE RELEASE!!! This is the kick off to the previews, with the release day being JANUARY 20, 2010!!! You won't want to miss out...we have a FANTASTIC BLOG HOP planned, and check out this post for details on how to WIN some of these brand new stamps!!

All the Divas have had an absolute blast colouring up these new images! Our challenge this week is brought to us by the fabulous Jeanne! She is asking you to create a project featuring SPACEY COLOURS (Blue, Green and Purple)!! Well, these colours are just perfect to showcase some of the new "space" themed images that Dustin has drawn for High Hopes!! I chose to create a bit of a scene, by using three different stamps from this release:

1. The space background.

2. The astronaut dragon.

3. The little 3-eyed alien.

I chose to make an 6" square easel card. All images were stamped on Neenah Cardstock and coloured with Copic markers. For the top panel, I cut out the terrain from the background stamp and adhered it to some DCVW Glitter paper. I also cut out the stars and planets from this image to place in the sky. The dragon was pop-dotted for dimension (actually, so was the terrain, so this is a pretty thick card!). I coated his helmet with Glossy Accents, and hand-wrote the sentiment on his flag.

On the inside/bottom panel, I used the little alien as a prop to hold the easel up. The sentiment used here is also part of the new release...."HAVE A STELLAR DAY!".

You must check out all the other Diva's cards this week...they are INCREDIBLE!! Keep your eyes on the High Hopes Blog for information on the sneak peeks this week too. I'll have a card to show you on both Monday and Wednesday. Remember, Wednesday is the RELEASE DAY, so make sure to join us for the HOP. You will find a link on the High Hopes blog for retailers who carry their stamps!

See you back tomorrow!!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: High Hopes (Dustin Pike Release): Astronaut Dragon, Space Background, 3-Eyed Peeking Alien, "Have a Stellar Day!"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic

Papers: Bazzill, SU, DCWV

Kraftin' Kimmie's Colour Challenge

This week, the fabulous Kraftin' Kimmie herself is hostess of the weekly challenge over at Kraftin' Kimmie Challenge Blog. Kimmie wants to see a combination of Pink, Red and Chocolate on your projects this week. You also have the option of including hearts on your project...in your design paper, cut from a punch, brads, chipboard....whatever you want!! With Valentine's Day sneaking up on us so quickly, this challenge will help bring out your inner Cupid! Remember the new rule...you MUST use a Kraftin' Kimmie image to be elligible for the prize!!

My card this week features "Tree Fairy", one of the new January Release images. I did alter her a bit though...I took her off her branch and perched her on these scalloped hearts cut out with some Nesties (which I borrowed from my friend Amy...thanks a bunch Amy!!). She was stamped on Neenah Cardstock and coloured with Copic markers. Her wings were coated with Frosted Lace Stickles. I loosely followed the sketch from Papertake Weekly...which is being sponsored this week by Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps! (Actually, so is Pink Elephant where the challenge is birthday cards. Why not triple your chances to win some Kraftin' Kimmie stamps, and enter all three challenges!)

So, what are you waiting for?? Need some inspiration? You can go over to the Challenge Blog where you will find details on the prize and examples by the Krafty Girls (and links to their blogs) to get your mojo going.

Looking forward to seeing what you create!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps "Tree Fairy"

Paper: Bazzill, Imaginesce

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers

Embellishments: Ribbon and metal embellishment from the dollar store

Tools: Scalloped Heart Nesties ...borrowed from my friend Amy

Humble Pie Challenge: Bling Bling!!

Break out your Stickles, rhinestones, glitter, spritzes, glitter paper...whatever sparkles and shines in your stash, because we are asking for projects featuring lots of bling (at least two different kinds) for the new Humble Pie Challenge this week!


I pulled out this Humble Pie image of Maggie holding a strawberry. I stamped her on Neenah cardstock and coloured her with Copic markers. The papers I used are from the new Basic Gray "Sugar Rush" collection (available now at The Town Scrapper!!). I found this fabulous rhinestone swirl at the dollar store (I do love a good bargain!!). I also used clear Dew Drops which I coated with Christmas Red Stickles. It is hard to see on the picture, but I used a Copic Spica pen to shimmer up Maggie's eyes and also to add highlights to the strawberry.




This sentiment is actually from a digital set from Sweet 'n Sassy stamps ("Cupcake Sentiments")...but I felt it was just perfect for making this Maggie stamp work for Valentine's Day!!
So come and play along with us this week! You could be the lucky winner of a prize from The Town Scrapper, exclusive home to Humble Pie stamps!! Hop on over to Humble Pie to find out more details!

Blessings!

Melanie

Stamps: Humble Pie "Maggie with Strawberry", Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Stamps "Cupcake Sentiments"
Ink: Copic markers
Paper: DCWV cardstock, Neenah cardstock, Basic Gray "Sugar Rush"
Embellishments: Dew Drops, Stickles, Dollar Store rhinestone swirl.

Of All The Fishies in the Sea...

I hope by now, that your Thursdays always include stopping by Sweet 'n Sassy to see what new digis are being released! There are so many fantastic images...right now, many of the newest images are perfect for Valentine's Day!! I always post my Sweet 'n Sassy projects here on my blog, but you should also sign up as a follower over at the Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Blog. That way you can stay up to date on everything that is happening over there. Plus, you don't want to miss any of the projects posted by the talented design team and guest designers...I'm sure they will inspire you!

Today, I have two cards featuring the brand new Digis for today: "Pucker Up" and "Blowing Kisses Teddy"!

First up, is this cute little fish bowl is illustrated by Leah Cornelis...what a super sweet image! I played around a bit with "Pucker Up" and decided to make a window card. I cut around the fish bowl to use it as a template for my acetate window. I made sure to place the fish and the gravel so that they would show through the window exactly as seen on the original image.



Now, before you take a peek at the inside, I need to ask you to tilt your head a little to the left...more....more...ok, that should do it!! Why?? Well, I noticed after everything was stuck down, that it's all a little off-kilter. :( Now normally, I can tease layers off with some thread...however, I had just run out of my usual adhesive. Since this card was going to be quite thick and heavy, I decided to use my Glossy Accents to adhere everything...very permanently. These papers were NOT budging. So, please humour me and just "pretend" that everything is straight, ok?? lol ( a very wise friend once told me that things being a little crooked is just proof that something is handmade with love...after all, nobody is perfect right?? hee hee)

So, for the inside of my card, I cut a square of Neenah cardstock, and drew in a bit more gravel to fit this square. I coloured in the water and the plants with Copic markers. The fish were also coloured with Copic markers, coated with Stardust Stickles and pop dotted for dimension. I found this great package of coloured glass beads at my local dollar store, and used them for the little pebbles at the bottom of the fish bowl! Finally, I used some more of those great heart rhinestones (also from the dollar store) as the heart bubbles that Leah drew in this image.

"Blowing Kisses Teddy" was drawn by Deedee Anderson. This is such a sweet little bear! For the fur, I used layers of feather strokes done with Copic markers. I opted for a shaped card this time and used my Nesties Labels 8 for the cardbase and DP layers. Since I had cut the teddy bear out, I needed to draw in the "kisses" that Teddy is blowing. I also used Frosted Lace Stickles on these "kisses". The sentiment is part of the "Blowing Kisses" set.

I hope you all have a wonderful day! Make sure to head on over to the Sweet 'n Sassy store to pick up this week's digis!

God bless,

Melanie

Digital Stamps: Sweet 'n Sassy "Pucker Up", "Blowing Kisses Teddy" (with included sentiments)

Paper: Neenah, My Mind's Eye, Bazzill cardstock

Ink: Copic markers

Embellishments: Glass beads and heart rhinestones from the dollar store, WRMK brads, Prima Hydrangeas, Dew Drops, Stickles

Tools: Nestabilities Labels 8

Exciting News From High Hopes!!

Hold on to your seats stampers!! High Hopes has officially announced their next release and their new artist...none other than Dustin Pike!! If you are not familiar with his work, please stop by his blog to check it out!





I can't wait to show you what I've been working on with these fantastic new images. I know the other Divas are bursting to show you their creations too! Well, the wait won't be long now!

This Sunday, the Divas will be bringing you cards with this brand new release on the Challenge Blog!! The sneak peeks will continue on Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday January 20, 2010 is the BIG RELEASE DAY!! We are having a blog hop to celebrate this new release!! Oh, I can hardly wait!

What would a new release be without the chance to win??? Well, here are the details on some amazing candy being offered by High Hopes...you will also find this (along with the blinkie) over on the challenge blog!!

Do you want to win a package bursting with new release stamps? Of course you do :-) Then we would love you to help us spread the news about our blog hop and release on Wednesday January 20, 2010.

To be entered into the draw:

1. Grab our blinkie from the sidebar and place on your blog.

2. Tell your friends about the news, blog hop and release on January 20th.

3. Become a follower of this blog if you aren't already ;-) You don't want to miss out on the fun and there will be tons of prizes along the blog hop!!!

4. Leave a comment on this post with a link to your blog post sharing our news.


The contest ends 8pm EST (Midnight GMT) on January 22nd!!

Good Luck!!!

I can hardly wait!! I hope you all are excited too...see you Sunday!

Melanie

Birthday Tilda (post #2 today!)

I am so happy to be posting a card with this stamp!! I have been waiting a long time to get my inky paws on this cutie! This is "Jam Tilda" from Magnolia. As soon as I saw her, I HAD to have her!! Thankfully, my friend Phebe from The Town Scrapper carries Magnolia stamps! As soon as Tilda arrived in Petrolia, I drove right out there to pick her up...along with some other goodies! Phebe is still running her "buy one, get one of equal or lesser value for 50% off" sale, so you can stock up on some great products right now and save big $$$!! She also has all Christmas stock on sale for 50% off! (her contact info is on her blog...just follow the link above!!)

Now, my in-laws were in need of a birthday card and "hired" me to make one for them. Perfect opportunity to use my new stamp! I inked up Tilda and stamped her on Neenah cardstock and coloured with Copics (big surprise huh??). I just love these "sitting" images...perfect to perch on the edge of layers. This pretty double-sided paper is from We Are Memory Keepers (bought this out at The Town Scrapper too!). You know, the nice thing about double-sided paper is that it takes the guess work out of co-ordinating patterned paper. I used Bazzil cardstock as a base, as well as for the punched border. The sentiment is from Stamping Bella. I mounted it on a wooden tag covered with DP.

When I was out visiting Phebe, I picked up another new stamp set!! I am hoping to get a card posted later in the week with it, so stay tuned!

Blessings!

Melanie

Stamps: Magnolia "Jam Tilda", Stamping Bella "Happy Birthday"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copics

Paper: Bazzil Cardstock, WRMK

Embellishments: American Crafts ribbon, Dollar Store brad, wooden tag, machine stitching

Winter Birthday Wishes

Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps is sponsoring the challenge over at Pink Elephant this week. The challenge is a pretty simple one: Birthday Cards!! We all need a fairly large stash of these, right? So, you should hop on over and enter in...you could be the happy winner of three stamps from Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps (including ones from the new release! did you see the blog hop yesterday?? feel free to scroll down my previous post for more information on that)

I chose to use Clara for my birthday card. I think she is just so elegant...and I love her clothes! I think she makes a lovely winter birthday card! I paired her up with this beautiful Cosmo Cricket Paper (appropriately called Klara!!). I have been hoarding this paper for a while, just waiting for the right image. I matted Clara on ovals cut from my Spellbinders.

As always, I stamped my image on Neenah, and coloured it with Copic markers. I pop-dotted Clara for dimension. Those little pearls are dollar store treasures!! Saving money on embellishments=$$ for more stamps!

So, off you go to the Pink Elephant to play along with the challenge. There will be some more examples over there by Kimmie's Krafty Girls featuring her fantastic stamps!

I hope to see you back later this morning...I will have another card to post featuring a Magnolia image!

See you soon!

Melanie

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps "Clara", Stamping Bella "Happy Birthday"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers

Paper: Cosmo Cricket "Klara", Bazzill Cardstock

Embellishments: dollar store ribbon and adhesive pearls

Tools: Various Spellbinders

High Hopes Challenge #58: Use a Bow!

(This is my second post today...scroll down or click here for the Kraftin' Kimmie Blog Hop!!)

Did you all know that every Sunday, a new challenge is posted on High Hopes?? Did you also know that with every challenge, there is a fantastic prize up for grabs?? That's right...all you need to do is make a project following the challenge topic, but it MUST include a High Hopes image. This week, the challenge is brought to us by the talented Karen, who is asking you to include a bow on your project!

For this challenge, I chose to use "Girl Talk"...what a cute stamp!! (my daughter LOVES this image!) The image was coloured with Copic markers...all except the nightgown of the little girl on the left. I paper-pieced that, and added some shading with my Copics for depth. The little "Giggle" embellishment was a find at the dollar store! I don't know a single stamper who doesn't scour the dollar store for a good card treasure! Actually, I was there today, but sadly left empty-handed this time :(. I also had some little wooden heart tags, so I covered one with design paper and mounted the "sentiment" on it. The bow was made with that fabulous little tool, the Bow Easy! I love this tool now...but I have to admit, it did not seem so "easy" at first. It took me a bit to figure it out!

I also pop-dotted this group of friends for dimension. Do you remember having slumber parties?? Oh, how much fun they were. Popcorn, movies, talking about boys, make-overs, games...and lots of "giggles"!!

I hope you find time this week to join in the Challenge over at High Hopes. The High Hopes Divas have some great examples posted on the blog, so come on over and take a look...then link up your entry for a chance to win!!

Have a wonderful Sunday!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: High Hopes "Girl Talk"

Ink: Copic markers, Memento Tuxedo Black

Papers: Bazzill and Bazzill Bling cardstock, All My Memories, Kaisercraft

Embellishments: Wooden Heart Tag, Metal Dollar Store Embellishment, Walmart Ribbon

Tools: Spellbinders

It's Relase Day...and a Kraftin' Kimmie Blog Hop!!

Kimmie has announced the winners of yesterday's Blog Hop over on the Challenge Blog!! You can find the names here !! Congrats ladies!! Even if you missed out on the fun yesterday, feel free to hop along anyways, as there are many wonderful projects to get you mojo going! Then get yourself over to Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps to place your order!

I know you all have been waiting, especially with all the fantastic sneak peeks of these new images...but wait no longer! It's RELEASE DAY over at Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps!! This new release is jam packed with so many incredible images and sentiment sets! There are four new fantastical images from Crissy Armstrong, four new fun and funky images from Annie Rodrigue, four adorable images from Jean Grant and two new sets of coordinating sentiments!! You’ll get to check out all the images throughout our fabulous blog hop!! You might as well just buy them all, and save yourself the decision making!

To celebrate the new release, we're having a blog hop! You will see some fantastic projects by Kimmie, the Krafty Girls, artists Crissy Armstrong and Annie Rodrigue, and some Krafty Friends!! The hop starts off at Kraftin’ Kimmie Challenge Blog! As you hop from blog to blog, be sure to leave a comment at each and every stop because three lucky stampers will win packages of stamps from the new release!! When you’re done hopping, be sure to head over to the Kraftin’ Kimmie store, because ALL the new images are NOW available!

So, if you have come here from Betty's blog, then you are on the right track. If not, start over at Kraftin' Kimmie Challenge Blog and follow the links along the hop. Kimmie has posted a list for the order of the blog hop at the Challenge Blog, just in case you get lost along the way!

Today, I have chosen to work with one of Crissy's stunning fairies. This stamp is called "Tree Fairy". Isn't she just lovely? These fairies are all so delicate...I adore them! I stamped "Tree Fairy" on Neenah cardstock and coloured her with Copic markers. I also added Stickles to her wings...however, when I had her mounted on my card, I felt her wings were just to bright for this beautiful vintage paper from TPC Studio (called Ancestral Bird Brocade). So, out came the Antique Linen Distress Ink and a make-up sponge (I keep a whole stash of these in my ink box!!). I think it toned them down just enough...and yet retained the shimmer I was going for. What do you think?

You know, I rushed out to buy this Fleur De Lis Spellbinder when it was a brand new release...and yet it had sat unused! Gasp!! I know...terrible huh? So, I used it to cut and emboss this Bazzill cardstock pendant for Tree Fairy to sit upon.

Now before you continue on to Diana's blog, you should know that Kimmie is running a fantastic special!

1. Each and EVERY order placed on Sunday, January 10th and Monday, January 11th will receive a special little surprise in with their package!!

2. The first 50 orders of $75 or more before shipping and taxes, will receive the special little surprise PLUS a free Oliver stamp!!

3. And as usual, EVERY order over $100 will receive free regular shipping!!

So, off you go to Diana's blog, the next stop on the hop! Remember to leave comments on each Krafty Girl's blog so you will have a chance at the prizes! When you have completed the hop, get yourself over to Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps to place your order!!

Have fun stampers!

Blessings,

Melanie

Looking Dapper!!

Saturday marks a new challenge over at Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps Challenge Blog! The challenge this week is "Heavy Metal", brought to us by Krafty Girl Tara who would like to see you using metal embellishments. Once again, you just might see a few sneak peeks of the January release images...including right here! I am using one of the new Moonlight Whispers images drawn by artist Annie Rodrigue. I would like to introduce you to "Chester".




Dapper...yup, that's what I think of when I look at "Chester"! I immediately fell in love with this character when I saw him! How can you resist him in his suit and top hat? I decided to use Chester to make yet another Valentine's Day card...'cause he looks like he's dressing to impress some lady friend, don't you think?? Imagine Chester showing up at your door...looking so very snazzy! I paired Chester up with papers from My Mind's Eye and Bazzill cardstock. The little sentiment tag was part of the MME paper kit. I have had these metal snaps in my stash for quite some time, and have been waiting for just the right project to use them on. I also had this entwined heart brad kicking around in my collection too...how fitting!



So, are you game?? Play along with Tara's "Heavy Metal Challenge" and you just might find yourself the winner of a terrific prize. Hop on over the the Challenge Blog for all the details, but remember, you MUST use a Kraftin' Kimmie image to be elligible for the prize!

Tomorrow is the big day! The new January Release will be available for purchase!! Not only that, but Kimmie and all the Krafty Girls are having a blog hop to showcase the new images! You will find all the details of the hop and links to the blogs tomorrow over at the Challenge Blog. See you again tomorrow!!

God bless!!

Melanie

Sneak Peeks of Kraftin' Kimmie's January Release!!

Have you played along with the Kraftin' Kimmie Challenge for this week yet?? You still have today to get your submission in before the winner is announced tomorrow...so grab a Kraftin' Kimmie image (which is a new rule this year to be eligible for the prize!), get paper-piecing and enter in for a chance to win!!

Now, some of the Krafty Girls used a few of the new images for the upcoming January 10, 2010 release for the challenge last week!! Did you see them?? I used one of new images by Crissy Armstrong for my first guest DT project...you can find that post here. You can still see the Krafty Girl's examples on the Challenge Blog.

You might have also caught a peek over at Cute Card Thursday this week (including my card here today!!), as Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps is the sponsor!

Today we are bringing you more SNEAK PEEKS!! So grab a cup of coffee or tea (or O.J.-whatever your preference!), and join us for this fun preview. You can find a list of the Krafy Girls who have previews today over on the Kraftin' Kimmie Challenge Blog!

My card today features "Dance Recital" by Krafty Artist Jean Grant. This is a new image for the "Cindy and Mindy" line of Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps. I HAD to have this stamp, as my daughter is very passionate about ballet. She's been dancing since she was four, and is now just about to turn ten. This stamp reminds me of her first recital, where she wore a little blue tutu!

Now, I just recently saw a fabulous tutorial on making frame cards, so I had to try it out!
I'll try to find the link and add it here later, or perhaps to another post.

I stamped "Dance Recital" on Neenah cardstock and coloured with Copic markers. I really wanted their tutus to "pop", so I generously coated them with Stardust Stickles. I used a backdrop of Bo Bunny paper in the recessed area, and then pop-dotted Cindy and Mindy for extra dimension. This stamp also comes with the sentiment I used here "Dance Like No One is Watching"...I LOVE this quote!! I mounted the sentiment on a Spellbinders Fancy Tag. The flowers are all Prima Hydrangeas.

I'm hoping you can see the recessed window on this shot! I really enjoyed this technique, and have plans to use it again soon.

Are you excited for the new release?? It's only a couple of days away! On the Challenge Blog tomorrow, you may just see a few more sneak peeks, and then Sunday we are having a blog hop to showcase all the fabulous new images by Kimmie's three talented artists! So stay tuned for the details!

Before you go, I have to have a proud mommy moment. I don't usually post pictures of my family, but I wanted to let you see a couple of pictures of my daughter doing what she loves best!

The first picture is from when she was four years old (and before my hubby was a photographer, so this was taken with an old point and shoot! ). Can I hear a couple "awww's"?

This next photo is one of my favourites! My husband took this in 2008 (she was eight years old here) during her ballet studio's production of The Nutcracker. It was fantastic...we brought in two professionals from the National Ballet of Canada to play the leads. This was her "Snow Maiden" costume...which I loved on her! So beautiful! (lol...did I mention that I was in the production too?? I played the maid...a "non-dancing role"...cause believe me, nobody needs, or wants, to see me in a tutu! lol...I just got to chase "Fritz" around the stage with a hairbrush, and act frustrated!...figured you don't need to see a pic of that! haha)

Ok...I'll stop gushing now. But, again...this is one of the reasons that I really love "Dance Recital"...takes me back to Ainsleigh's "rookie" ballerina days!!

See you tomorrow morning for a new challenge! Off you go to see the sneak peeks! Remember, all the links are over at the Challenge Blog!!

Blessings

Melanie

Cute Card Thursday (Post #2 today)

Just a quick second post for today! Don't miss my first post for Sweet 'n Sassy's new Digis for today, and about our Digi Day on SNR!! Just keep scrolling for all the info and links, my friends!

Ok, did you land on my blog today courtesy of Cute Card Thursday?? Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps is the sponsor this week!!! You are probably wondering why you are not finding the card posted there, hmmm??? Well, I can explain. You see...I have a "sneak peak" planned for tomorrow of the brand new January release...as do many of the Krafty Girls!! As the theme over at CCT is "new", many of the DT are showing their cards featuring the "new" images there today! (so technically, you could get a "sneak peak of my sneak peak"...hee hee)

I PROMISE if you come back first thing tomorrow morning, I will have not only pictures posted here, but also details about my card that is up on CCT!! Hope to see you again tomorrow!!

Blessings!!!

Melanie