Sunday, February 28, 2010

Sandy Toes!

We have another fantastic colour/recipe challenge for you this week at High Hopes, brought to us by the fantastic Amy W!! She would like to see you use orange, brown and a circle on your creations this week! There are always terrific prizes up for grabs on the challenge blog, but you must use a High Hopes image to be eligible for the prize!

This week, I pulled out "Little Sand Architect" and this great summery sentiment called "Sandy Toes"! While I LOVE winter, I also understand that many people are just plain fed up with the snow. So, I thought I would make a card to cheer up those with the "winter blues"!! I love this image. Do you remember how much fun it was to make sandcastles? When having that sand between your toes was a good feeling?? lol I don't mind having dry sand between my toes...it's the wet clingy kind of sand that I don't enjoy! I distressed the edges of my papers and added some doodling around the borders. I also pulled out some metal corner pieces that I picked up at the Dollar store.
The image was stamped with Memento Ink on Neenah cardstock and coloured with Copic markers. I cut it out with my circle and scalloped circle Nestabilities.



If you do not yet own any High Hopes images, there are links to retailers on the blog. Several of our Divas also have online stores:

Amy Wegener - Stampin' Stuff based out of Australia
Nikki Fairbairn - Bunny Zoe's Crafts based out of the UK/Europe
Lacey Stephens - Stamp and Create based out of the US
Amy Leggate - Paper Romance based out of Canada

There are so many adorable images, and I know you will find something you love! The Divas are always excited to see what you've been busy making with your High Hopes stamps.

Our Diva Lacey has a special "challenge" posted on her blog here. You can also find a link to this challenge in my side bar. She knows a very special lady who is celebrating her 100th birthday very soon!! Can you image...100 years old! We would love to see her receive 100 cards for her birthday. Lacey is even offering up a prize for those who help her reach this goal! What a wonderful way to bless this special lady on a very special birthday.

God bless you all, and have a fantastic Sunday!

Melanie

Stamps: High Hopes Stamps "Little Sand Architect" and "Sandy Toes"
Paper: Neenah, Bazzill, Bo Bunny, My Mind's Eye
Ink: Memento, Copic markers
Embellishments: American Crafts Ribbon, Metal Corners from the Dollar Store
Tools: Spellbinders

Saturday, February 27, 2010

Buttons and Bows

I think it's pretty safe to assume that all card crafters have an abundance of two items...ribbons and buttons! I am no exception to this rule! No matter how much I have, those bargain bins full of ribbon spools always call out to me! lol So, I am very grateful to Krafty Girl Andrea this week who has challenged us to use those very items...her challenge posted at the Kraftin' Kimmie Challenge Blog is called "Buttons and Bows".

I decided to ink up Charlotte this week...I have been so obsessed with all the fantastic new release images that I have left the poor girl neglected in the bottom of my Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps stash! So, it's her turn to shine this week! Charlotte is a favourite of mine. I just adore her quirkiness, and her, ahem, "well-loved" dolls. Are you ever guilty of that...ignoring your older stamps in place of that new shiny rubber?? Fess up ladies...I know you're out there!


LOL...ok, guilt trip time is over! On to the details!! I picked up this fantastic sheet of paper from KaiserCraft last weekend. Oh, how I LOVE orange on a card, and yet I seldom use it! So when I saw this paper, it immediately went into my basket. With all the white outside, we need a shock of bright colour to lift our spirits, right? My usual card making process is to pick my paper out first, so I coloured Charlotte in coordinating colours with my Copic markers. I used some SU cardstock I had kicking around for the cardbase and to mat the layers. The ribbon is from American Crafts and the "sentiment" is a dollar store find. I also used some Prima Hydrangeas with buttons as the flower centres and finally added a few rhinestones for a bit of pizazz!


Silly me...I just picked up a brand new border punch last weekend which would have been perfect for this card. However, I COMPLETELY forgot about it while assembling the card, duh! It would have been perfect to spruce up the edge of that yellow layer...sigh. As I used a VERY permanent glue to adhere the layers, there was NO chance of lifting it off, so it will stay "unpunched". Lesson learned: Get ALL supplies you plan to use out before you assemble, especially if your brain is a sieve like mine!! lol

Time to hop on over to the Challenge Blog to see what the rest of the Krafty Girls have made this week. Trust me...they are FANTASTIC!! Then, ink up those Kraftin' Kimmie images, tie some bows and pull out those buttons!! (if you do not yet own any of Kimmie's awesome stamps, you can check out her store here) Make sure to link up your entry for the chance to win "Puppy Love", the image Andrea used on her card this week!

Oh, and you will want to make sure to check in with all the Krafty Girls starting on Tuesday March 2, 2010 because there is something VERY exciting coming!! You know, if you sign up as a follower on the Challenge Blog (as well as on all the Krafty Girl's blogs), you will always be up to date on all the news at Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps!! Trust me, you will NOT want to miss out on what we have planned for next week...you will LOVE it!!

See you back tomorrow!!

God bless

Melanie

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps, "Charlotte"
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers, Distress Ink in Antique Linen and Tea Dye
Paper: Neenah, SU, KaiserCraft, My Mind's Eye
Embellishments: Prima Hydrangeas, Basic Grey buttons, American Crafts ribbon, Dollar store trinket, flat backed rhinestones, Star Dust Stickles
Tools: Bow Easy, Nestabilites Labels 8

Friday, February 26, 2010

Lot's of Things Happening at The Town Scrapper!

Happy Friday!! I don't have a card to share with you today, however I have several things to let you know about. My goodness there is a lot going on at The Town Scrapper lately...the BIGGEST news of all is something I can't quite tell you yet...however, it is very exciting so make sure to stay tuned!!

1. Have you hopped on over the The Humble Pie blog?? Every Friday we post a new challenge. This week, you are challenged to make an easel card! I love making these cards, as they display an image so beautifully! There was a fantastic tutorial posted earlier this week on the blog by Baker Lisa, so check it out and play along! We have several prizes up for grabs: One lucky winner will be the happy owner of a fantastic new Whiff of Joy stamp that Phebe currently has at The Town Scrapper. Another lucky stamper will win "Sitting Ellie" from Humble Pie stamps. Finally, each and every participant in this week's challenge will be emailed the digital image of "Angel Maggie" from Humble Pie stamps.

2. Sadly, our guest Baker Bonnie is finishing up her guest term with us. She has made some fantastic projects, so make sure to stop by and leave her some love!

3. On a happier note, our other guest Baker Zoe is staying on with us! Make sure to leave her some love too!!

As I said before, stay tuned for more exciting news from The Town Scrapper. You can find Phebe's contact information on her blog!!

See you back tomorrow!

Melanie

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Bear Hug

I'll let you in on a little secret...I have always longed to have a window seat. Ideally, it would be in a bedroom complete with a turret in an old Victorian home. Picture it...a beautiful area off to the side of a bedroom with a window seat covered in big, soft pillows. A perfect spot to curl up with a novel, a sketchbook...or even a place to sit and daydream. Sigh...as much as I adore Victorian homes, I'm not about to take on the financial commitment of renovating and restoring one! Perhaps someday. Don't get me wrong...I LOVE my house and feel very blessed to have it! We can all have dreams though, right?

Well, this is just one of the reasons I fell in love with this image from Sweet 'n Sassy Digital Stamps. Just look at that window seat!! This is called "Bear Hug" by Deedee Anderson, and it is just absolutely adorable.



As always, I printed the image on Neenah cardstock and coloured with my Copics. I sponged all the edges with Antique Linen Distress Ink...actually, I inked the American Crafts ribbon with it as well. The sentiment is part of the "Bear Sentiments" set. Finally, I added some Star Dust Stickles to the image and to the Prima Hydrangeas.



By now you know the drill! Thursdays are Digi Day on the Sweet 'n Sassy SNR group. Korin has something very exciting planned for the challenge today! She will be giving away a freebie for joining us (you must play along by 10pm EST tonight for the freebie), PLUS she'll be drawing one lucky winner who plays along by Monday morning to win a $10 digi credit to the store!! It all begins around 10:00 am EST. There is bound to be some great conversation and some gorgeous cards posted, so don't miss out on the fun!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Stamps, "Bear Hug" and "Bear Sentiments"
Paper: Neenah Cardstock, My Mind's Eye, SU
Ink: Copic markers, Antique Linen Distress Ink
Embellishments: Star Dust Stickles, Prima Hydrangeas, Dew Drops, American Crafts Ribbon

Monday, February 22, 2010

Showcase Mondays!

Why is it that weekends fly by so quickly?? I can't believe it's Monday morning already! Do you find yourself needing a little "pick-me-up" on Mondays? We now have a new feature over on the Humble Pie blog to help get your week off to a fun start. Join us for "Showcase Monday" when the Bakers will be showing you projects featuring the many different stamp companies and product lines that Phebe carries at The Town Scrapper! She, of course, is the exclusive retailer of Humble Pie Stamps, but she also has a ton of other goodies in her store!

Today, I am showing you a card featuring the newest Miss Anya set from The Greeting Farm called "Miss Anya Love". I just adore the Miss Anya stamps, and this new set is no exception! As usual, there are three Anya images in the set, and they are gorgeous! I love the versatility of these stamps. They are great for birthday cards, thank-you cards, thinking-of-you cards...oh, the list is endless! I chose to make a friendship card.

I also used some other product lines Phebe has at The Town Scrapper. The design paper is all from the new Basic Grey collection called "Origins" and the two oval layers were cut using Spellbinders dies. Remember, if Phebe does not have a specific Spellbinders set in stock, she can always order it in for you. Her service is fast and super friendly!

Miss Anya was stamped on Neenah cardstock with Memento ink and coloured with Copic markers. I had a lot of fun colouring the folds in her dress and trying to make them look three dimensional. All the edges were sponged with brown ink and Miss Anya was adhered with pop dots for dimension. The "Friend" brad was something I've had kicking around in my stash for quite a while.

I hope you make our "Showcase Mondays" at the Humble Pie Blog part of your week! Phebe's contact information is on her blog, right beneath the header. Petrolia is such a pretty little town to visit! I love driving out there and seeing the Victorian charm of all the beautiful old homes. It is well worth the trip, as I know you will leave Phebe's store with a ton of goodies! If you are too far to visit, please contact her! As I said, Phebe's customer service is great!

God bless!

Melanie

Stamps: The Greeting Farm "Miss Anya Love"
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Memento Rich Cocoa, Copic markers
Paper: Basic Grey "Origins", Bazzill, SU
Tools: Spellbinders
Embellishments: Metal "Friend" brad...from my stash!

Sunday, February 21, 2010

Can You Feel It??

Good morning stampers! As part of my role as guest designer over at High Hopes, I was allowed to pick a challenge topic. I thought it would be fun to add some texture to your project this week! Texture can be added in so many ways! You can distress edges, add stitching, use different fibres or fabrics, emboss your papers or even create a faux texture! The possibilities are endless!
For my card this week, I used another image from the Dustin Pike new release. This is "Fast Eddie"! With Valentine's Day over, Easter is now fast approaching!! This image is just adorable, and obviously perfect for Easter! I stamped all images on Neenah paper with Memento Tuxedo Black ink and coloured with Copic markers.



How did I add texture to my card? For starters, I created a faux fur texture on Eddie with my Copic markers. I also added some Star Dust Stickles to the Easter Eggs in Eddie's basket. The bunny's fluffy tail was covered with Polar White Flower Soft. I snipped some green cardstock to create a "grass" effect, and then sponged it with a dark olive ink. The white layer was embossed with my Spots and Dots Cuttlebug folder.



The sentiment was created with rub ons and a wooden tag covered with cardstock. The ribbon was originally white. I coloured it with my BV02 Copic marker to match the purple cardstock.

Head on over to the High Hopes Blog to see what the Divas have made this week for inspiration! Then get busy making a project with a High Hopes image and link it up for your chance to win a fantastic High Hopes prize!

Melanie
Stamps: High Hopes "Fast Eddie"
Paper: Prism, SU, Beckett
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers
Embellishments: Polar White Flower Soft, Star Dust Stickles, wooden tag, rub on letters, ribbon
Tools: Cuttlebug Spots and Dots folder

Saturday, February 20, 2010

Making a Scene Over at Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps...and Some Exciting News!

LOL... I love it when somebody actually gives me permission to "make a scene", and that's exactly what our lovely Krafty Girl Vicki has invited us to do at the Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps Challenge Blog this week!! Our challenge this week is called "Scene It"...yup, she wants to see you create a scene with at least 2 Kraftin' Kimmie images.

Before I get to my card for this week's challenge, I have some BIG news to share! Kimmie has invited me to become an official Krafty Girl!! Now after much consideration...YEAH RIGHT!!! LOL, like I even had to think about it! I accepted immediately! These past couple of months have been so much fun, and I was dreading the end of my guest term. She has also asked my partner in crime, fellow guest designer Donna Wardle to become permanent member of the team as well!! I know we are both over-the-top with excitement to become official Krafty Girls!! Thank you so very much Kimmie for this opportunity! What a blessing to be part of such a talented team of girls!!


Whew! Ok, on to my card this week. I am still totally on an Annie Rodrigue pirate kick! I just love these new images. For this challenge, I have inked up "Polly" and "Captain Scurvy". What a pair!! The images were all stamped on Neenah cardstock and coloured with Copic markers (gee, imagine that!). I drew in the deck and railing of a pirate ship. "Shiver Me Timbers" is part of the "Pirate Sentiment" set. I imagine this is something the good ol' Captain might say when met with such a gorgeous gal like Polly!



Here's a closer look at Polly...


And at Captain Scurvy....


I hope you find time to play along with us this week. You can hop over to the Challenge Blog to feast your eyes on the samples by the Krafty Girls for inspiration! Remember, you must use Kraftin' Kimmie images to be eligible for the weekly prize!

Go on, MAKE A SCENE this week!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps, "Polley", "Captain Scurvy" and "Pirate Sentiments"
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Memento Summer Sky, Copic markers
Paper: Basic Grey Arhival, Bazzill, Neenah
Embellishments: Iron-on trim (adhered with Glossy Accents)

Thursday, February 18, 2010

An Abundance of Cocoa!

That's right...Cocoa is popping up all over the place at Sweet 'n Sassy!! If you have not ever seen this sweet little mouse, then you are totally missing out! Korin Sutherland, owner of Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps, illustrated this adorable little character, and he has been found peeking out from behind many different items over the last couple of months! Cocoa is definitely a popular image! Recently, Korin added several new Cocoa images and I know you will want each and every one! The beautiful thing is...you can get them all without breaking the bank! They are priced at an amazing $3.00 each(USD), and remember, because they are digital images you will have them instantly! No waiting in anticipation for the post man!

For today, I chose to work with "Peek-a-Boo" Cocoa. I think we are all longing for spring...to see that first shoot of green from under the white blanket. It will be here soon enough, but in the meantime it's fun to colour some fresh "springy" images! I printed Cocoa off on Neenah cardstock and coloured with my Copic markers. The sentiment is part of "Springtime Blessings".



That cute little butterfly flitting about above Cocoa's head is also a Sweet 'n Sassy image called "Whimsical Butterfly". I gave the butterfly a coat of Frosted Lace Stickles, and bent up the wings before adhering it to the main image.

Now remember, Thursdays are Digi Day over at our Sweet 'n Sassy Group on SNR. The challenge this week?? Butterflies! So, now you know why I added one to my image today! Our host for today is the fabulously talented Lynne...can't wait to see what she created for the challenge!

See you later on over at SNR!

God bless!

Melanie

Sunday, February 14, 2010

A High Hopes Recipe!

(This is a two-post day on my blog!! After checking out my High Hopes post, please scroll down of click here for the Kraftin Kimmie February Blog Hop and Release!!)

Good morning...again! We have a long weekend here in Canada. Monday is Family Day, and I am really looking forward to the extra day off with the family!!

Today, though marks another new challenge at the High Hopes Stamps Blog! Our hostess this week is the fabulously talented Sirpa!! She has come up with a recipe for us to follow: 3 Design Papers, 3 Flowers and 3 Buttons! What a fun challenge...thanks Sirpa!

For my card, I pulled out some of the new Dustin Pike images! I stamped them on Neenah cardstock with Memento ink and coloured with my trusty Copic markers. I also added some Stardust Stickles to the shooting star. I chose to layer 3 flowers I made from the DP with Flower Creations Spellbinders. The stamped images are all pop-dotted for extra dimension.

So, time to hop over to the High Hopes Blog and check out the amazing examples by the DT! Then, get out your High Hopes stamps, follow the recipe and then link up your project. You could be the winner of a High Hopes prize this week!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: High Hopes Stamps Dusting Pike release
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers
Paper: Neenah, SU, DCWV
Embellishments: Buttons, Stardust Stickles
Tools: Flower Creations Spellbinders

Shiver Me Timbers...The Wait is Over!!

(This is another two-post day on my blog! After you read about the Kraftin Kimmie Blog Hop, scroll up or click here for my High Hopes post!)

Good morning stampers!! Did you all sleep last night, or were you up waiting for the brand spankin' new Kraftin' Kimmie February release images to become avaliable for purchase??!! Well, your wait is over..they are now up in the store!! I hope you have been following the Krafty Girls for the last couple of days, as we have been busy showing you previews of all the fantastic images!! There are 4 new fantastic Emmylou images from Crissy Armstrong, 5 new swashbuckling pirate images from Annie Rodrigue, 2 adorable Cindy and Mindy images from Jean Grant and a new set of coordinating Pirate Sentiments!! You’ll get to check out all the new stamps throughout our fabulous blog hop!!

Now you should have arrived here after visiting the lovely Crissy Armstrong, but if you did not then head over to Kraftin’ Kimmie Challenge Blog, where all the fun starts!

Along the way, you will see AMAZING projects by Kimmie and the Krafty Girls. Joining us today are the amazing artists Crissy Armstrong and Annie Rodrigue! We’ve also got some fantastic Krafty Guests again!!

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!! And when you’re done hoppin’, be sure to head over to the Kraftin’ Kimmie store, because ALL the new images are NOW available!


For my card today, I used two of the fantastic new pirate images by Annie Rodrigue! I LOVE pirates...mostly due to the Pirates of the Caribbean movies (Johnny Depp is one of my favourite actors...Jack Sparrow is AWESOME!) I also tried my hand at a side step card for the first time. I would like to introduce you to "Bìlly Blyth" and "Alicia the Strawberry Pirate"! I stamped this fantastic pair on Neenah Cardstock with Memento Ink and coloured with Copic markers to coordinate with this fantastic paper by KaiserCraft. The sentiments are both part of the brand new "Pirate Sentiments", and the cute bird is "Alicia's Parrot" (the accessory stamp that come with Alicia). Those skull and crossbones are some iron-on trim I found at a fabric store, so I snatched some up knowing that it was perfect for this release!


Here's Billy Blyth...quite the dashing young pirate!








Here's a closer look at Alicia! Now, if you have been checking in with us, you will know that Alicia is based on an original piece of artwork by Annie, and Kimmie is offering up a 5x7 print as a prize!! All customers who place an order at the Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps Store on February 14 and February 15 will be put in the draw for this amazing prize!





Now, I KNOW you want some of these stamps!! lol Why not try to win yourself some by hopping along with us today. Here's the blog hop order:

1. Kraftin' Kimmie Challenge Blog
2. Donna
3. Michele
4. Diana
5. Andrea
6. Annie Rodrigue
7. Betty Roberts
8. Elaine
9. Vicki
10. Jeanne
11. Tara
12. Crissy Armstrong
13. Melanie
14. Alli Miles
16. Kimmie


So, there you have it!! Get hopping ladies...your next stop is the amazing Alli Miles! When you are done, get on over to the Kraftin` Kimmie Store to get your inky fingers on the fantastic February Release!

Have fun!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: Kraftin` Kimmie Stamps, Alicia the Strawberry Pirate, Billy Blythe, Alicia`s Parrot, Pirate Sentiments
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers
Paper: KaiserCraft, Bazzill, Coordinations
Embellishments: Iron-on Skull and Crossbones trim

Saturday, February 13, 2010

"Stash the Booty" at Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps!

Whew! It's been a busy week for the Krafty Girls with all the previews! Have you seen them?? We started the sneak peeks on Thursday for the upcoming February release for Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps!! Yup, only ONE MORE SLEEP stampers...we'll be having a blog hop tomorrow to celebrate the release day!

Saturday, of course, marks a new challenge on Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps Blog. Now, when we were given the images for this next release, the wheels started turning in my head! I know I just hosted the challenge a couple of weeks back, but Annie's new pirate images inspired me with another topic, so Kimmie graciously allowed me host again! This week's challenge is called "Stash The Booty!!"...pretty appropriate with the whole pirate theme, huh?? Yeah, I have my clever moments! lol So, I am asking you to incorporate something "hidden" on your project this week. We all know that pirates are infamous for hiding treasure...or trying to find another pirate's stash!

I used "Cutthroat Lizzie" on my card today. Sometimes, I like to pretend that I look like this. lol I stamped Lizzie on Neenah paper and coloured her with Copic markers.



So, where's the booty on this card?? See that little treasure chest (an accessory stamp for the February release) Lizzie is guarding? Well, it conceals a small recessed window in which you will find some treasure...the chest pivots open on one of the brads to reveal the booty! Um, don't tell my daughter that I raided her jewelry box for this cross neclace, ok? lol. So, you can actually use a card like this to double as your gift packaging.


I cannot wait to see what you come up with for this challenge! I had a lot of fun with it, and hope you will too! So, get busy and "Stash The Booty"...you could be the winner of "Cutthroat Lizzie" from Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps. But remember...you MUST use a Kraftin' Kimmie image to be eligable for the prize! Just link up your project on the Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps Blog!



Now, don't get so busy that you forget to come back tomorrow!! It's release day, and all the images you've been seeing over the past few days will be available for purchase!! Join us for the February Release Blog Hop...Kimmie has some special guests lined up for the hop too!

Tomorrow, I will be showing you a card featuring two other pirates from the Moonlight Whispers collection. One of these pirates is Alicia the Strawberry Pirate. If you have been checking out our sneak peeks, you will know that Kimmie has a special 5x7 print of Alicia by artist Annie Rodrigue. Alicia is based on an original piece by Annie, and word has it there are more to come!!

Don't miss out stampers!
Blessings,

Melanie

Friday, February 12, 2010

Day 2 of Kraftin' Kimmie Previews!!!

(This is Post #2 today!! If you are looking for the Humble Pie Challenge, just scroll down or click here!!)

You didn't miss out yesterday, did you?? A brand new release is coming this Sunday for Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps, and the Krafty Girls are having sneak peeks for all the days leading up to the February Release Blog Hop on Sunday February 14, 2010!!! Oh, there are some fantastic images in this release! Kimmie has a list of all the Krafty Girls participating over on the Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps blog, so be sure to hop over there to check out these amazingly talented ladies! But wait!! Before you go, I have another preview to share with you!

This cute image is from the "Cindy and Mindy" collection by Jean Grant. This is called "Bench Friends". I really love this stamp, and how it celebrates the quiet moments shared between friends. Friendship is such a treasure, never to be taken for granted. A true friend is there with you to share not only in your joys and triumphs, but in your struggles and heartaches too.


I stamped "Bench Friends" on Neenah cardstock and coloured with my Copic markers. I paired the image with this pretty paper from Daisy Buckets. The sentiment "Friendship Needs No Words" is also part of the new February release.


Are you making notes of your favourite images so you are ready to place your order first thing on Sunday? Seriously, you could make it a lot easier on yourself and just order the whole release!

Make sure you check back tomorrow. We will have a new weekly challenge on the Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps Blog and the Krafty Girls will yet again be showcasing the new images!

Blessings,

Melanie

Humble Pie Challenge:Use those Die Cuts!

(I have two posts today!! If you are looking for the Kraftin' Kimmie Preview, just click just scroll up or click here!!)

The new challenge over at Humble Pie Stamps today is to use die cuts...they can be done with Spellbinders, Cuttlebug, Sizzix, Cricut, etc. The Bakers however, have all used Spellbinders on their creations this week. Why?? Well, because Phebe carries a wonderful assortment of Spellbinders at The Town Scrapper!! If she does not have the particular set you want, she is more than willing to order it in for you! I recently ordered a couple of sets, and she had them in very quickly!

For my card this week, I have used a brand new Humble Pie image that was previewed last week on the Humble Pie Blog. This is Angel Maggie...she will be available soon as a stamp, but you will only be able to find her at The Town Scrapper!


I paired Angel Maggie up with papers from TCP and Coordinations. I used a few different Spellbinders sets: Fleur de Lis, Fancy Tags and an Oval. The flowers are Prima Hydrangeas and I added a jewelry spacer to the largest flower. Phebe carries both the flowers and the spacers. (She also has a great selection of charms too!) The sentiment is from Amy R. Thank-You Sentiments by CC Designs (another company Phebe carries at The Town Scrapper).


Now, hop on over to the Humble Pie blog to see what the rest of the Bakers have made this week for inspiration! You do not need to use a Humble Pie image, but if you have some, please go ahead and ink them up...we'd love to see them! The Humble Pie Stamp line is exclusive to the Town Scrapper.


Have you gone out to The Town Scrapper recently? Well, Phebe's amazing sale of buy one, get the second of equal or lesser value for 50% off ends February 14, 2010!! So you still have a bit of time. Don't miss out stampers!

Blessings,

Melanie

Thursday, February 11, 2010

I Spy With My Little Eye...

(This is my second post for today. Scroll down or click here for my Sweet 'n Sassy post!!)

PREVIEWS!!! Yup, we are starting the previews of Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps February release!! Oh wow...there are some fantastic "gotta have" images in this release. Well, actually I think all of them are on the "gotta have" list! lol So, for the next three day, you can visit the Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps Blog to find a list of the Krafty Girls who will be participating in the sneak peeks! Following the previews, we will be having a BLOG HOP on Sunday to celebrate RELEASE DAY!! You are in for a jam-packed fun-filled few days!

Ok, so now that you are "in the know", let's get on with the sneak peeks!! Today, I am showing you a brand new image by Crissy Armstrong! This is "Puddles of Love". I immediately fell in love with this gorgeous image. Remember back when splashing in the puddles was THE greatest fun?? Somewhere along the way, we "mature" and tend to loose sight of the joys of small things...like splashing in a puddle! Hmmm...maybe next time it rains I'll have to put on my galoshes (or Wellies, if you prefer!!), slicker and get out there and splash to my heart's content! lol



I stamped "Splashing Love" on Neenah cardstock and coloured with my Copic markers. I first picked out my paper, and decided to go with a pink raincoat to coordinate with the DP. Now, it has come to my attention that MANY of my Copic markers sit neglected in their cases...oh the shame! Do you all do that...always reach for you favourite combos? Well, I decided to step outside my comfort zone and reach for the RV's. I'll tell you a secret....the RV shades scare me a bit! I rarely have success with them, but I felt it was time to conquer that fear. So I played around until I found a combination of markers that worked. What do you think? The result is a little bright (if you have to put on your sunglasses, I will not be offended! lol)...but what little girl doesn't adore pink??


I hope you have fun hopping around to the Krafty Girl's blogs...these ladies are AMAZING!!! Make sure to check back with us over the next few days, because you don't want to miss out on any of the fun! You see, if you've been keeping an eye on the sneak peeks, then you can be ready to place your order at Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps as soon as these fantastic images are available on Sunday February 14, 2010!! Remember, we will be having a BLOG HOP that day...there will be some special guests participating and perhaps even some PRIZES!!

Now, there is one thing you should be aware of! On your travels, you may see previews of a new Moonlight Whispers image called "Alicia the Strawberry Pirate". Kimmie has a very special prize up for grabs for this release. Here's what she has to say:

Alicia the Strawberry Pirate is the first stamp that we have produced that is designed based on one of Annie's original illustrations! It's really exciting and we have more on the way!! I am giving away a 5x7 print of the illustration, Alicia the Strawberry Pirate that can be seen here: http://www.moonlight-whispers.com/catalog.php?item=33 Every order placed on Sunday, February 14th and Monday, February 15th is eligible to win and one lucky stamper will be the random winner!

How exciting! As a heads up, I will be making a card featuring Alicia for our blog hop on Sunday...but I know for a fact that you will see her today if you visit all the Krafty Girl's blogs!

See you back tomorrow!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps "Puddles of Love" with coordinating sentiment
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers
Paper: Neenah, SU, Fancy Pants
Embellishments: Prima Hydrangeas, Dew Drops, Jewelry spacers, ribbon

Sweet Melody

Good morning! Today, I am sharing a card I made with Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps "Melody of Love". I fell in love with this image as soon as I saw it! I have always loved the violin. It is an instrument I have always wanted to learn to play. Actually, I did take lessons for a short time in high school, but my busy homework schedule just didn't allow for the time I needed to pour into the lessons. Sigh. See, I'm not exactly musically inclined. My husband is though...he has been involved in music since childhood. He is one of the worship leaders at our church, and I love to listen to him play and/or sing. Perhaps someday I'll try to get back into lessons...I guess you're never to old to learn something new. I have my own violin too...well, my grandmother had given me my grandfather's very old violin. It is in major need of repairs though!

I suppose you probably would like to see the card though, right?? I printed "Melody of Love" on Neenah cardstock and coloured with my Copic markers. I cut the image out with Nestabilities, and then sponged around the edges with Distress Inks while it was still in the the die. There are some beautiful sentiments that come with this image, however I chose just to use this little metal embellishment that I found at the dollar store.



Don't forget that Thursdays are Digi Day over at our SNR group. Korin is our hostess today, and she has put forth the challenge "So Sweet". Well, my card does not feature a "sweet" that is tasty but I do think of the sweet music that the violin produces...when played by a skilled musician. I could just sit for hours and listen.


So, head on over to the Sweet 'n Sassy store to pick up some brand new images and then hop over to SNR to get in on the fun!

It's a busy day on my blog...I have two posts today! It's time for sneak peeks of the upcoming Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps February Release!! Click here to see!!


Blessings!

Melanie

Stamps: Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Stamps "Melody of Love"
Ink: Copic markers, Distress Inks
Paper: Neenah, Bazzill, Bo Bunny
Embellishments: Dollar store trinket, ribbon
Tools: Spellbinders Labels 8

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Tubby Time

Good morning! Our challenge at High Hopes today is brought to us by the fabulously talented Karen!! She has called this challenge "WIRED"!! Karen would like you to use wire and/or metal on your project this week!

I pulled out this cute stamp called "Good Clean Fun". How cute are these little piggies in the tub? Now I have to admit that I found this challenge, well....challenging!! lol I had no idea how I would incorporate wire into a card...it's not a material I had ever thought to use! So I sat and stared at my stamp of choice, and decided it would be fun to give the little piggies a bit of privacy! I cut a piece of pre-gathered lace and added some metal grommets. Voila!! Instant shower curtain! I added two metal brads and strung the "shower curtain" on some white floral wire.
And when we open the shower curtain, we see:
I stamped "Good Clean Fun" on Neenah cardstock and coloured it with my Copic markers. I also added some Star Dust Stickles to the bubbles to help them look more iridescent. The little bar of soap was given a coat of Glossy Accents, and the water droplets were traced with a Spica pen.
So, what's your plan?? How will you use wire and/or metal embellishments on your card this week? The Divas cannot wait to see your creations! Hop on over to the High Hopes Blog for some inspiration from the rest of the Divas. When you are done, link up your project for the chance to win some High Hopes goodies! Just make sure to use a High Hopes image!!

I hope you all have a fantastic day!
Blessings!


Melanie

Stamps: High Hopes Stamps "Good Clean Fun" and sentiment "May your day be filled with more bubbles than troubles!"
Paper: Coordinations cardstock, Neenah, Bella Press
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Memento Summer Sky, Copic markers.
Embellishments: Metal brads, Pre-gathered lace, metal gromets, floral wire, Star Dust Stickles, Glossy Accents

Saturday, February 6, 2010

Have a Cup on Me!!

Happy Saturday!! Hope you all have had a great week. We've had a busy week here. My son has started his first job! He's pretty happy about it...and pretty happy about the money he will soon have to spend! lol My daughter has had extra dance classes in preparation for ballet exams and Highland Dancing competitions that are fast approaching. Actually, she had a competition last Saturday and took three seconds and one fifth out of eight dancers!! My husband and I have been busy trying to get them to all their commitments!

So, today brings another new challenge at Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps!!! Today, our hostess is the talented Diana!! She would like you to be "A Little Ripper"!! Yup, time to let go of the need for perfectly straight edges...tear them up baby!!

For my card, I pulled out "Oliver", inked him up with Memento Tuxedo Black ink and stamped him on Neenah cardstock. I coloured him with Copic markers. His hat was paper pieced, and trimmed with Polar White Flower Soft. Now, I know most cards around blogland are "springy" right now...I think many of us are more that ready to see some green!! Time for a reality check though...IT'S STILL COLD OUT!! So, I made this card into a cocoa gift card to warm up somebody's day!



The sentiment is part of the "Everyday Sentiments" set.





Here's a quick peek at the inside (the sentiment here is also part of the "Everyday Sentiment" set):



You know, I've heard it said that tearing paper can be good therapy! So, get in on the action and make a project this week for Diana's challenge!! Hop on over to the Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps blog and link up your creation! Make sure to use a Kraftin' Kimmie image so that you have the chance to be the winner of a new Kraftin' Kimmie Stamp!!

Did you see that Kimmie posted an extra challenge on her blog this week to celebrate her birthday, and her blog's anniversary?! Yup...check out her post Here for more information!

Have a fantastic Saturday, and I hope to see you back here tomorrow!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps "Oliver" and "Everyday Sentiments"
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers
Paper: SU, Prismatic and Coordinations cardstock, DP from my stash
Embellishments: Metal "Mug" brad (from my stash), Walmart Ribbon, Polar White Flower Soft

Friday, February 5, 2010

A Little Love

Hello!! Well, we've made it to another Friday and today, I'm showing a card I made for The Town Scrapper. Phebe carries so many terrific stamp lines, one of which is Magnolia. I so love these stamps!! "Jam Tilda" from the "Yummy for your Tummy" line is one of my all time favourites! She is just so pretty! I can't tell you how happy I was the day she arrived at Phebe's store!

I really love white cards, however I rarely attempt to make them...I find them really difficult! Thought I'd give it another go with this one though, after all...you'll never get better if you don't keep trying, right? I used my Swiss Dots embossing folder with my Cuttlebug to add some texture to the white panels. For a splash of colour, I added some red cardstock for matting, and a scalloped circle of some Sugar Rush paper from Basic Grey (available right now at The Town Scrapper!) cut with my Nesties. Those lovely swirls were cut with my newest Nesties set, Doodle Parts. Phebe carries many of these terrific products...she ordered the Doodle Parts (and Flower Creations) Spellbinders for me, and you would not believe how quickly she received them! So, even if Phebe does not have a certain set you are looking for, she can easily order them for you!


Tilda was stamped on Neenah cardstock and coloured with Copic markers. Although I went with a bit of a Valentine's theme, I think you could give this card to a loved one any time of the year!!



Don't forget about the SALE going on right now at The Town Scrapper!! The "Buy one, get the second of equal or lesser value for 50% off" is ending on February 14, 2010!! If you miss out on this sale, you will kick yourself!! Head on out to Petrolia, Ontario to take a look at all the goodies at the Town Scrapper! You can also contact Phebe...her information is on her blog!
Also, don't forget to check over at Humble Pie Stamps for the weekly challenge! Some of the Bakers also previewed a new image that will arriving soon at the Town Scrapper for purchase!!

Blessings!

Melanie

Stamps: Magnolia "Jam Tilda"
Paper: Neenah, Prism, Bazzill, Basic Grey "Sugar Rush"
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers
Embellishments: Ribbon, self-adhesive pearls
Tools: Various Spellbinders

Thursday, February 4, 2010

A "Little" Something Special...or Two!!

First thing's first...did you see Sweet 'n Sassy's big news this week??!! We're going all digital! We helped Korin celebrate this announcement with a blog hop on Monday...you can still scroll down to Monday's post to visit all the DT's blogs to see their creations...wow, they were incredible! What a talented bunch of ladies! Speaking of the DT...we GREW!!! (let me clarify that we grew in NUMBERS, not by pant size... lol) So much excitement this week already, and would you believe there is more?? Korin has decided to release all the February digis, and a few of the March images today! Yup, go take a look at the store...so many adorable images! Also, you will need to keep your eyes on the store, because Korin will be releasing new digis frequently. My advice is to check daily!

So what will this mean for "Digi Day Thursdays"? Well, since we will be having daily releases of new digital stamps, we will now have a challenge day on SNR every Thursday! The first Thursday of the month will feature a "prize" challenge. We hope you will play along on the other Thursdays too, because Korin will be on the lookout for our Guest Designers and Spotlight Customers from the participants! Today, our hostess over on SNR is Micki! The challenge....USE THOSE BUTTONS!!

Whew...oh yeah, I have a couple of cards too! (hope you've stuck with me this long!)

The first card I made, is a teeny little 4x4 notecard. I LOVE little cards...I'm always drawn to them in stores! I used the adorable "Benjamin Bunny", printed him off on Neenah cardstock and coloured him with my Copic markers. I kept the layout really simple, and just layered him on some coloured cardstock and My Mind's Eye DP.


My second card was made with our SNR challenge in mind! This new image is "One of a Kind". Again, I printed it off on Neenah and coloured with Copic markers. The sky was sponged in with a make-up sponge and a hand-cut cloud template. I think the DP here is from Fancy Pants. This little birdie just makes me giggle! Being different isn't necessarily a bad thing...after all God made each of us unique! We should celebrate who He made us...but at the same time, be willing to be shaped and molded into who He wants us to become!


So, I hope your day will include a stop by SNR to participate in the chatting and challenge! I hope to stop by there later after work. I hope you all have a fantastic, blessed day!!

Melanie

Monday, February 1, 2010

Lots of Love Blog Hop with Sweet 'n Sassy!

Good morning!! There is some BIG NEWS being revealed over at Sweet 'n Sassy today!! SWEET 'N SASSY IS GOING COMPLETELY DIGITAL!! You will find the details of Korin's big announcement over at the Sweet 'n Sassy DIGI BLOG !!

We are celebrating this big news with the LOTS OF LOVE BLOG HOP!! I will also tell you that our design team is growing! You can meet all the new designers along the hop!! These ladies are amazingly talented...I feel honoured to be on a team with them all!

The hop will start on the Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Blog. From there, hop to each of the following blogs (in no particular order):

MickiSandyDeedee MelanieNicoleLynneKorinLeahCeal Darsie Janette Kim LorieNancy

So, back to the hop! The theme of our hop is "LOVE"!! Each DT member will be showcasing a different Sweet 'n Sassy digital image. Now, since we all have been focusing lately on the new releases, we thought it would be fun to show you some of the older digital images available at Sweet 'n Sassy!! You will also have a mission...you must tally up the number of times the word "LOVE" appears on the DT's projects along the hop. Perhaps some of the designers have used it 20 times, and some maybe not at all!! So keep track, because there is fantastic PRIZE up for grabs!! One lucky hopper will win the entire January release of digital images! Feel free to leave comments on each designers blog, but make sure to hop back to the DIGI BLOG when you are finished to leave a comment with your answer!! Korin will be choosing a winner from the correct answers!! As an added bonus, you can grab the "I heart Sweet 'n Sassy Digis" blinkie from the blog and post it on your own blog...if you do, you will be the happy recipient of a FREEBIE!! You will again need to leave a comment on the DIGI BLOG with your email address so that Korin can confirm that you posted our blinkie!! Oh, there is just so much fun to be had today!


Oh yeah, my project!! I worked with the digital stamp "Noah's Ark". I was in the mood to create something other than a card, so I decided to make a door plaque. I had this wooden heart in my stash of craft items, and painted it white. I covered it in DP, sanded down the edges and embellished with Spellbinders Doodle Parts. I also added some pearls. I coloured "Noah's Ark" with Copic markers and pop-dotted it on the plaque. I made a "hanger" out of ribbon and added a bow (made with my Bow Easy!). I also added a smaller wooden tag covered in DP. On one side I wrote "Hush, Baby Sleeping"....the other side says "Baby Awake".




Although Valentine's Day is just around the corner, I chose to make this project with the love of a parent in mind. As a parent, we love our children unconditionally. There is nothing else that compares to this challenging, and yet most rewarding "job". To be responsible for another life, and to nurture that child until they are ready to go out in the world as an adult themselves is perhaps one of the most difficult things one may ever do. But, oh the blessings!

So, help us at Sweet 'n Sassy SPREAD THE LOVE!! Start over at the Digi Blog to find out the big announcement, then hop along to all the designers!

Have fun hopping!!
Melanie

Stamps: Sweet 'n Sassy Digital Stamp "Noah's Ark"
Ink: Copic markers
Paper: KaiserCraft, All My Memories, Neenah
Embellishments: Dollar store metal embellishment, ribbon, pearls
Tools: Spellbinders Doodle Parts