News Flash!!

Hey stampers!! Remember the Kraftin' Kimmie Tea Party Spring Kit?? If you were lucky enough to snag yourself a kit while they were still in stock, then you were able to take advantage of a great discount on the entire set. For those of you who missed out on that fantastic deal, we do have some good news! The stamps are now available to purchase individually! To refresh your memory, you can see the cards I made with this set by clicking on the following links:

Nadine
Giselle
Henri
Lisette
Gabrielle

So head on over to the Kraftin' Kimmie Online Store to pick some up!

Blessings,

Melanie

Bradley Bear

Can you believe it is almost the end of March already? My goodness, where does the time go? The end of this month also brings about the end of my guest term with High Hopes Stamps. The last three months have been so much fun, and I have been so very blessed to work alongside the amazingly talented Divas! I would like to say a big thank you to Tina, Bethany and Nikki for having me on the team! I also need to say thank you to my friend Amy who helped ignite my passion for the High Hopes company! I have loved this company since I first began stamping, so when Nikki originally contacted me about a guest term, I was just thrilled! While I will miss working with the Divas to bring you the weekly challenges, I still plan to keep my High Hopes stamps inky!! I look forward to seeing who the new guest Divas are...I'm sure they will be amazing! Our challenge this week is brought to you by the talented Nikki and is called "Little Gem". Nikki would like to see you use gems, pearls or beads on your project this week.

For my last guest Diva project, I pulled out one of the Dustin Pike images called "Bubble Bath Bradley". I used my Copic markers to create a furry look for Bradley. I coated the bubbles with Stickles and used some pearls for the larger bubbles. The bar of soap was coated with Glossy Accents, although that never seems to show up in pictures! I randomly adhered clear Dew Drops, hoping they would look like extra bubbles. The rhinestone trim was a dollar store treasure. I also used the sentiment "Filled with Bubbles".



I sponged in some Distress Inks while the image was still in the Spellbinders die.



Time to pull out your High Hopes stamps and your collection of "gems"! There is yet another fantastic prize up for grabs, so don't miss your chance to win! (Remember, it's mandatory to use a High Hopes image to be eligible for the weekly prize) Just link up your project on the High Hopes Challenge blog! You will also find pictures of the amazing projects by the Divas to inspire you for this week!

Once again, I want to express my gratitude to the High Hopes group for having me as a part of your team this past term! You were all so very welcoming, and I enjoyed every moment!

Have a blessed Sunday,

Melanie

Stamps: High Hopes Stamps "Bubble Bath Bradley" and "Filled with Bubbles"
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers, Antique Linen and Tea Dye Distress Inks
Paper: Bazzill, Neenah, DCWV
Embellishments: Clear Dew Drops, Flat-backed adhesive pearls, Star Dust Stickles, Glossy Accents, dollar store rhinestone trim
Tools: Spellbinders Circles and Scalloped Circles

Copic Colouring Demo Today!!

Happy Saturday!! Just in case you came here looking for the weekly challenge for Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps, you can check my post from last week here. This is a two-week challenge...tons of time to create something for Michele's "An Eyelet Here, An Eyelet There" challenge! I had used the gorgeous "Gwendolyn" for my card, one of the March release fairies by Crissy Armstrong. I LOVE that stamp!

I was asked by a very sweet commenter yesterday named Angie (I'm sorry Angie, but I couldn't find your email address!!) about the clouds that I sometimes do as a background for my images. I posted two cards yesterday that had clouds in the sky. Angie had asked if I use Copic markers to do the clouds. I actually use a hand-cut template and a blue ink pad. They are very simple to do! The next time I do a card with an outdoor scene, I will show you how it's done. (I could explain, but it would be easier to show you!!) I just want to say how much I appreciate all your comments! I do read each and every one, and wish I had time to respond to all of them. Please don't think that I take you all for granted. I appreciate that you take the time out of your busy day to come and visit my blog. Thank you all for being so sweet and encouraging!

On to more news. Today is the big day...gulp! I will be doing my first Copic demo in Petrolia, Ontario for an event being run by Phebe, owner of The Town Scrapper. There will be two other amazingly talented ladies running demos as well...Phebe (watercolouring) and Krista (Copic)!! I'm hoping to glean a little info from both of them. We'll be spending the afternoon colouring up some of the new exclusive Victoria Case images for The Town Scrapper! These stamps are so adorable, if you've not seen them yet, you can find some examples by hopping on over to Phebe's blog or to The Town Scrapette's blog.

So, want to see what we'll be making at my table?? This cutie is called "Bear-Y Sweet Sophie" by Victoria Case for The Town Scrapper. I have, of course, coloured her with my Copic markers. Other than the buttons and border punch, all materials from this card are from The Town Scrapper. Now, I may have cleaned Phebe out of the beautiful background DP from My Mind's Eye (Tiny Dancer) for my card kits! However, Phebe carries other paper from this company, and I have to tell you that My Mind's Eye makes some of all time favourite papers! The cardstock is Bazzill, which Phebe also carries. The pretty flowers are from Prima...you will find tons of gorgeous flowers at The Town Scrapper!

Here's close look at sweet Sophie and her little teddy bear. The pretty flowery paper she is matted on is from Imaginisce, and the layers were cut with Spellbinders Ovals.

I'm very excited to meet all of you who are planning to come today! Remember though, I am not Copic certified, so I will just be sharing with you some of the things I have learned along the way!

Have a blessed Saturday!

Melanie

Stamps: "Bear-Y Sweet Sophie" by Victoria Case for The Town Scrapper

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black and Rich Cocoa, Copic markers

Paper: Neenah, MME, Imaginisce, Bazzill

Embellishments: Prima Flowers Essentials 6, assorted buttons

Tools: Spellbinders Petite Scalloped Ovals Small, Petite Ovals small, Martha Stewart Border Punch

Young Love

(This is my second post for the day. Scroll down or click here to see my Sweet 'n Sassy card for Friday Sketchers!)

Happy Friday!! I've had a few days off work this week as my boss is away, and I have been enjoying the extra stamping time I've been able to sneak in! I absolutely adore my family....but oh, how I LOVE to have my house to myself for an afternoon! That's a big treat for me! The peace and quiet is just blissful for those few hours, and gives me a chance to decompress and re-engergize, so I'm ready for all the hustle and bustle once everybody gets home!

One of the projects I worked on this week during my "down time"was for our challenge this week over at The Town Scrapette's Blog...we want to see you make an Easter or Spring themed project. Now, the Scrapettes are all giving you a sneak peak of some gorgeous new exclusive Victoria Case images available only at The Town Scrapper! These cuties will be available soon in rubber, so contact Phebe if you would like to purchase them! If you play along in our challenge this week, you may just be the lucky winner of one of the exclusive Victoria Case line for the Town Scrapper!

I inked up "Easter Cuties". I adore this image!! Look closely and you will see that both have gifts for each other hidden behind their backs. Young love...too cute! The image was stamped on Neenah cardstock and coloured with my Copic markers. I used my Nesties Labels 8 to cut them out. (did you know The Town Scrapper has an amazing assortment of Spellbinders, including some of the new sets!!) The sentiment i

One more sleep...tomorrow is the big day!! I'll be doing my first ever Copic colouring demo for Phebe at her fundraiser tomorrow afternoon in Petrolia, Ontario. The amazingly talented Krista is also running a demo to share her "mad skills"! For those of you interested in watercolouring, Phebe will be sharing some of her tips and techniques...her colouring is so pretty! Each demo will feature one of the exclusive Victoria Case stamps that you will only find at Phebe's store...The Town Scrapper. Phebe will have this stamp line available for purchase at the event. Your registration fee will include the demos, refreshments, card kits and the stamps used in each demo. I am very excited, and look forward to meeting everybody!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamp: "Easter Cuties" exclusive Victoria Case stamp for the Town Scrapper

Ink: Copic markers, Memeto Tuxedo Black and Summer Sky

Paper: Bazzill, Neenah, KaiserCraft, SU

Embellishments: Ribbon (Walmart)

Tools: Bow Easy

Friday Sketchers (sponsorsed by Sweet 'n Sassy!!)

Korin Sutherland, owner of Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps, is sponsoring Friday Sketchers Challenge Blog this week! A few of the Sweet 'n Sassy Divas played along, and I decided to jump in for one last hoorah! (I posted yesterday, letting everybody know that I am stepping down from the Sweet 'n Sassy DT at the end of this month.)

I used the very sweet digital stamp called "Precious Baby" and paired it up with this pretty paper from Imaginesce. I did have to shift the one flower up a bit from the original sketch, as I ran out of room! The sentiment is part of the stamp...I just trimmed it out of the image and placed it according the the sketch layout.

Hop on over to Friday Sketchers to see what Korin is offering up as a prize for one lucky participant!

Have a fantastic Friday, and make sure to check back with me later in the day. I'll have another post for The Town Scrapper up around 12:00 noon EST.

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Stamps "Precious Baby"

Ink: Copic markers

Paper: Imaginesce, Bazzill, SU

Embellishments: Prima Flowers, MM brads

Tools: MS border punch

An Easter Treat...and a little bit of sad news.

Good morning! My post today is mixed with a little sadness. This will be my last post for the Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Stamps Blog. While I have enjoyed my time with this amazing group of ladies, I have some future endeavors in the works and therefore, reached the difficult decision to step down. I have appreciated the friendships made while serving on this team...these ladies are so supportive and encouraging. I still plan to stop by and see what they are up to...and to see what new images Korin is posting in her store! I would just like to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU to Korin for having me as part of this team, to Sandy who put up with my unending questions (lol) and to the rest of the ladies who have blessed me beyond anything I ever expected.

(Actually, I will have one more Sweet 'n Sassy card for you tomorrow, but it will not be posted on the Digi Blog. Korin is sponsoring a certain challenge blog...so come on back to my blog tomorrow to check out which one it is, and also to find out what she will be giving away as a prize!)

Ok...let me show you what I made for my final project. When I first started with Sweet 'n Sassy back in December, I used a Cocoa image for my first post (you can see that post here). I immediately fell in love with this cute little mouse, and Korin has been regularly coming up with new images featuring him. I felt it appropriate that my final post would also feature Cocoa. I printed this adorable Egg-Cited Cocoa on Neenah cardstock and coloured it with my Copic markers. I decided to cover one of these great wooden baskets I picked up from Michaels, and use it to hold some Easter treats. (I've used one of these baskets previously...you can see that post here.) Now brace yourselves...I used a sticker for the sentiment! GASP!! lol...Come on, fess up! I know there are a bunch of you out there who have gone sticker crazy in past years. When I first started scrapbooking...well actually, I pretty much "collected" scrapbooking stuff, and never really got around to using it...I bought tons of stickers. Where are they now?? In a big accordion file in my basement. So I though perhaps I should actually try to use some now and then. This little "Happy Easter" banner seemed to suit my project just perfectly. This project actually came together very quickly (maybe partially due to the sticker??!! lol), so you could make up a bunch of these for the kiddies, or even as place-setting favours for Easter dinner. Oh, your table would look adorable!

Remember, every Thursday is Digi Day over at the Sweet 'n Sassy Group on SNR. Today, your hostess is Leah. Hop on over there to get the details of the challenge, prizes and to participate in the friendly conversation. Make sure to visit the Sweet 'n Sassy store to pick up some new images too!

Again, thank-you to the entire team at Sweet 'n Sassy for the opportunity to work alongside you all.

God Bless!

Melanie

Stamps: Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Stamp "Egg-Cited Cocoa"

Ink: Copic markers

Paper: Neenah, Prism, DCWV

Embellishments: Dollar store stickers and ribbon

Other: Wooden basket from Michaels

A Big Thanks to Crissy Armstrong!!

I received an email from Crissy Armstrong telling me she had recognized ten different blogs on her post today for an award...one of the people she recognized was me! Here is what she sent to us:




Oh my goodness, am I ever honoured! I am such a big fan of Crissy's work, as an illustrator, colourist and as a card designer. She is such a sweetheart, and has left me so many beautiful and encouraging comments. I have had the honour of working with some of Crissy's images for a couple of different design teams. Some of favourites recently have been the gorgeous fairies she designed for Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps...I LOVE colouring them! (if you are interested, you can see my projects featuring Crissy's fairies designed for Kraftin Kimmie Stamps by clicking on the following links: Flower Fairy, Tree Fairy, Bird Fairy, Ophelia, Gwendolyn).

The other card artists Crissy recognized are amazingly talented! You really must go to her post here to check them out. Thank you so much Crissy for thinking of me, and listing me along with these wonderful ladies. If you are not familiar with Crissy's work, you really must make yourself a cup of tea or coffee and plan to spend a while looking around her blog!

Ok...so there are rules to accepting this award! First I need to share 10 things about myself that you may not know! (Hmmm...gotta put my thinking cap on for this one, and try to find something interesting to share. lol) Then, I must pass it on to 10 friends!


All right...you are about to get to know a little more about me!

1. I have always thought it would be amazing to be a published author. I really loved English in school, but really have not pursued this "dream". Perhaps some day!


2. Like Crissy, my favourite animal is also the horse. Now, I think I did post this before, but not everybody would have read it! Oh my, they are just gorgeous animals!
   
3. I love to draw! I have not had much time to just sit and sketch lately, but I used to spend hours with a pencil in hand. (Mostly, I drew horses lol) My style always leaned in the direction of realism, but I appreciate all styles of art and the time the artist puts into his/her work.
   
4. I used to be a competitive Highland Dancer (but I always wished I had taken ballet as well!) My mother devoted a lot of her time while I was growing up to taking me to lessons and competitions. Never did win a trophy though! (My daughter now competes in Highland dancing, and is completely obsessed with ballet...so I have been enjoying watching her develop as a dancer in both disciplines)


5. I have participated for several years in a "Mom's Dance" in my daughter's yearly recital! This is a blast, and I love it....the lights, the stage and yes, even the cheering! Sadly this year, I am going to have to "bow" out due to other commitments. Last year we danced to Beyonce's "Single Ladies"...SO much fun! (Yes, I do have pictures...but I would need some pretty good incentive to share them! lol)
   
6. I am a Sunday School teacher at my church. You will find me having fun with the kids down in "LOL"...a large group setting for age 5 to grade 5 kids every Sunday morning. We run a very fun interactive program complete with music, skits, games and of course Bible time! (I've even been known to don a rather oversized "afro" wig, orange sports jacket, butterfly collar shirt and polyester pants to play the part of a 70's game show host in a skit. We like to have fun!) (sadly no picture of this! lol)


7. One of my favourite movies is "Three Amigos"...totally silly, but oh so good for a chuckle! (I can probably recite most of the movie...my hubby bought it for me on DVD, as I had "worn out" the tape! Well, and we don't have a VCR anymore anyways!) Does anybody remember how to summon the Invisible Swordsman??


8. I love to play volleyball! I am by no means an amazing player, but I love the game and you will often find me diving for balls...my kneepads have big chunks out of them...I really need a new pair!
   
9. I am not a good singer. Oh how I wish I was! I adore musicals, and think it would be amazing to take part in one...we have a few local groups who put on fabulous productions! When I am alone, I think I am a fantastic singer....but something seems to happen when somebody is within listening range...I suddenly become tone deaf! lol Ok...I'm tone deaf all the time, but when I'm alone, I like to pretend I am not! I really should take lessons...my hubby is an amazing musician and has a great voice.


10. Hmmm...kind of stuck for a number ten!! How much do you really want to know about me? lol Ok...I had a role in a local production of The Nutcracker Ballet in 2008. Don't panic...I didn't have to wear a tutu or anything! I played the maid. I got to chase "Fritz" around the stage and shake a hair brush at him...had to put my "angry" face on! lol It was a blast! My daughter had different dancing roles, so it was really special to share the "stage" experience with her, instead of just being backstage the whole time! In the party scene, I had to take her coat and curtsy to her as she was one of the party guests! To this day, I still get "maid" jokes at the dance studio. Hmphf. lol (for the record, I DON"T do windows.)

Ok so there you have it! Ten things you may or may not have wanted to know about me! Here is my list of friends who I would like to pass this award on to:

1. Amanda
2. Amy
3. Krista
4. Phebe
5. Maria
6. Micki
7. Kim
8. Korin
9. Sandy
10. Alex

Thanks again Crissy! I really do feel so honoured that you put my name on your list! Hope you have fun hopping around to my list of blogging friends!!

Blessings,

Melanie

Easter Bunnies come in all shapes and sizes...don't they??

Wow...our weather here changed from 20 degrees and sunny to 3 degrees and cold overnight!! Yesterday was so chilly. Today though, we are supposed to have a bit of sun to cheer things up, so I'm hoping things are a little warmer. Signs of spring are all around though...our tree is even budding!

Today at High Hopes, your hostess is the wonderfully talented Lacey, and she has called her challenge "Hoppy Easter"...this can be a spring theme, Easter theme or have anything that "hops" on it. Remember to use a High Hopes image, link it up on the High Hopes Blog and you just may be the lucky winner this week of a brand new High Hopes stamp!

I decided to use a stamp that wouldn't typically be used for an Easter theme. I pulled out "Watson" and decided to add some cute bunny ears to him. Now, Amy brought it to my attention that High Hopes has a Bunny Ears stamp, which I gladly would have used if it was part of my collection! lol These however, are just hand drawn in (with a Copic multiliner). I figure Watson would have a big advantage over most of us on an Easter Egg hunt with that terrific sniffer!! I'd pick him for my team...as long as he didn't lick the candy first. ewww. lol

The sentiment was just made with some rub-ons I picked up at the dollar store. Actually, the Easter Egg ribbon is also a dollar store find!

I hope you have a wonderful Sunday, and I know the Divas are "eggcited" (lol...sorry, BAD pun!!) to see what you create this week. "Hop" (again with the puns!) on over to the High Hopes blog for some inspiration from the Divas!!

Blessings,

Melanie

(ps...If you are in the area of Petrolia, Ontario next Saturday why not join me at a fundraising event! I'll be there doing a Copic demonstration. If you are interested you can find the details here, at the end of the post.)

Stamps: High Hopes "Watson"
Ink: Memento, Copic markers
Paper: Bristol, SU, DCWV
Tools: Spellbinders Scalloped Squares, MS border punch
Embellishments: Dollar store ribbon and rub-ons, Prima flowers, rhinestones

Enchanted

It's Saturday!! This past week has been a much slower pace than normal for my family, as many of our commitments were cancelled due to the kids' March break. I almost didn't know what to do with myself! Normally, Ainsleigh has five different dance classes I have to get her to, I have volleyball, my husband Dean has volleyball and my son Nathan has shifts at work that we need to get him to and from. Everything slowed right down this week though, and I have to admit it was nice! No rushing the second I get home from work to get supper on the go! It all starts up again on Monday though...so I'm going to enjoy every moment of this weekend!

We have a brand new challenge for you over on the Kraftin' Kimmie Challenge Blog! Your hostess this week is the phenomenal Michele Boyer!! Her challenge is called "An Eyelet Here...an Eyelet There"! So break out your eyelets, your setters and your Cropadiles...oh, and a Kraftin' Kimmie stamp, which is mandatory if you want to be in the running for a fabulous new stamp!

This week, I inked up "Gwendolyn", one of Crissy Armstrong's fairies from the March release. Oh my, all four of the fairies this month are just gorgeous! I love colouring Crissy's fairies. Between their hair and all the folds in their clothes, I'm just in Copic paradise! lol Now, Gwendolyn is especially appealing to me because she has a horse! Oh, I was a horse crazy kid growing up! I took riding lessons and worked in a barn as a teenager, but never had my own horse. I also drew horses...constantly! I think my high school art teacher got sick of all my horse projects! lol But, they are a beautiful animal.


I paired Gwendolyn up with some pretty vintage paper from TCP. I've used papers from this line on several cards made with Crissy's fairies. They go beautifully with the images. As my supply has run out, I am going to have to buy more...hopefully my local store still has some! I used two eyelets/snaps to thread some ribbon through, and attach it to the sentiment (that comes with Gwendolyn) which was mounted on a Fancy Tag from Spellbinders. I also used my Doodle Parts Spellbinders to create the flourishes.

Gwendolyn was stamped on Neenah cardstock and coloured with my Copics...yes, I know I always use the same medium!! BUT WAIT...this week, I tried something a little different. I also added in some shading on the horse with my Conte crayons and a blending tortillon. I first coloured the horse with my warm grays, and gave him a bit of a dappled look. Then I went to work with my black Conte crayon (I used the 2B, as it is softer and blends a little easier on a smooth paper). I deepened the shadows, and added some definition to his face. I also added some through his mane and tail. (I had an angry moment while colouring when my C5 ran out...I'm also out of C3, so the mane and tail were done with only a C7, C1 and whatever ink I could manage to squeeze out of my bone-dry C5...ugh! refills on now on the way!). I also added in just a touch of white Conte crayon to emphasize some highlights.



I originally tried to do the background with my Conte crayons too, but it was a bit of a disaster. (They work much better on a paper with some "tooth".) So, out came my scissors, and I cut the image out. I actually really like it mounted on the paper like this though, so not all "disasters" will ruin your project...there's almost always a way to "fix" things!

All right, off you go to the Challenge Blog to see the samples by the other Krafty Girls...they are stunning! Then pull out your Kraftin' Kimmie stamps, go and get yourself inky, and make something using eyelets! Leave a comment on the challenge blog complete with a link, and you just might be our lucky winner! Now this week's challenge is slightly different...you will actually have two weeks to complete your project. You can look for our next challenge to be posted on April 3, 2010. So no excuses! You've got loads of time to make something, and we can't wait to see it.


Oh, just a reminder...if you were wanting to get your hands on one of the Spring Tea Party Kits, there are literally only a couple left!! My advice....BUY IT NOW, or you just might miss out, and that my friends would be a tragedy. (ok...a little dramatic, but you get my point! lol)

Have a blessed Saturday,

Melanie

(ps...Next Saturday, I will be doing a Copic demo at a fundraiser organized by Phebe, owner of The Town Scrapper, in beautiful Petrolia, Ontario!! If you are interested, you can check out the details here...space is limited though! Hope to see you there!)

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie "Gwendolyn" and accessory sentiment "Wish"
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers (I also used Conte crayons)
Paper: Neenah, TCP, Bazzill
Embellishments: Ribbon, dollar store pearls
Tools: Spellbinders Fancy Tags, Ovals and Doodle Parts

Easter Blessings

My goodness, March is just flying by! I wanted to remind my local readers of an event coming up on March 27, 2010 being hosted by Phebe of The Town Scrapper!(well, technically I shouldn't limit this to local readers!! lol, if you'd like to travel then we'd love to have you too!!) She is holding a fundraiser, which will run from 12:00 to 4:00 in the afternoon in beautiful Petrolia, Ontario! Phebe is planning a water colouring demo. There will also be two Copic demos, one by Krista and the other by me!! The three of us sat down together at Coffee Lodge the other night planning the details...well, and we may have indulged in some cheesecake too! lol Ladies, I know this will be a fun event! You will make up to three cards with Phebe's brand new Victoria Case images. There will also be snacks and refreshments...mmmm. Now, this event will be capped at 15 and as of the other day, there were only a few spots left. So, if you are interested please call or email Phebe quickly! (Oh! Don't foget to hop on over to The Town Scrapette's Blog for our weekly challenge! This week we're asking you to use Ribbons and Rub Ons! There are some fantastic examples by the DT on the blog for inspiration. If you participate this week, you could find yourself the lucky winner of a brand new Victoria Case stamp designed exclusively for The Town Scrapper!! Details are on the blog here.)

I also thought I'd share an Easter card with you today. Now, some of you may have seen this yesterday over on our Sweet 'n Sassy group at SNR. I made it for our Digi Day challenge (to make an Easter themed project). This Sweet 'n Sassy image is called "Christ Arose". What a beautiful image...so significant for the Easter season. Korin has several images that are just perfect for Easter.




The image was of course coloured with my Copic markers. I kept the layout very simple, as I really wanted the image to be the focus.




I hope you all have a wonderful day, and I will see you back tomorrow with a card for the Kraftin' Kimmie weekly challenge. (I've been working on a card with one of Crissy Armstrong's gorgeous fairies!)

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Stamps "Christ Arose" and included sentiment
Ink: Copic markers, Distress Ink (Antique Linen and Tea Dye)
Paper: Neenah, Bazzill, DCWV (Once Upon a Time)

Spring Showers

How are you all enjoying the weather lately? We have had some gorgeous sunny days here in Southwestern Ontario. I've even been able to open my windows and let the fresh air in! Now, we all know that along with spring comes rain. I honestly don't mind the rain...I quite like it! However, I DO NOT like the resulting mud! You see, we have white carpets and a dog. We did not put the white carpets in...they were newly installed when we moved in two years ago. I love the look of them when they are clean, but boy are they hard to keep that way! Poor Kalev...we have to catch him on his way into the house and scrub his feet each time he comes in.

When I saw this cute "Rainy Day Teddy" image available at Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Stamps, I knew I needed it!! lol I just love this cute bear in her galoshes! I adore watching kids splash around in the puddles...they're always filled with such joy. I made the sentiment myself on the computer. I think we all need to remember to slow down and enjoy the little things in life...like splashing in the puddles!

I printed "Rainy Day Teddy" off on Neenah cardstock and coloured her up with my Copic markers. The puddle and raindrops were given a coat of Stickles. I paired the image with some fun paper from Bella Press.

I hope you've been checking in with Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps frequently as Korin is adding new images regularly! Oh, there are so many to choose from...but thankfully, her prices are so reasonable that you will be able to purchase several! I know she has been adding some fantastic Easter images, so make sure you stop by and pick some up!

Today is also Digi Day at the Sweet 'n Sassy group on SNR. Your hostess today is your's truly! If you head over to the SNR group, you will find a link to our challenge for the day. The challenge will be up and running by 10:00 am EST, with a sample project to get your mojo going! I know some of the other DT members also have projects to share. So, make sure to drop in and say hi!

Have a blessed day friends!

Melanie

Stamps: Sweet 'n Sassy Digi Stamps "Rainy Day Teddy" (sentiment is my own)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers

Paper: Bazzill, Prism, Neenah, Bella Press

Embellishments: Clear Dew Drops, Stickles, machine shitching

Tools: Spellbinders Ovals and Scalloped Ovals

I Was Double-Dared!!

(This is my second post for today! If you are looking for the Kraftin' Kimmie March Release Blog Hop, just scroll down or click here!!)

Good morning stampers! Sundays, of course, always bring a new challenge on the High Hopes Blog!! My pal Amy L. is our hostess this week, and she has asked us to create something with "Flutterby's". Now, there was some discussion on our group about what falls under the definition of a "flutterby". Amy cleared things right up, and basically said we could use anything with wings. Well, for those of you who know me, you are aware that I can be a little, well, let's just say "silly" at times. I jokingly asked that if I created a flying monkey, would it count as a flutterby?? Well, Lacey and Jeanette hopped right on that and double -dared me to do it. So, you are about to see the result of that dare! I just wanted to prepare you...because this is a little different!! (oh...and I think Lacey jumped on board too, and posted a flying monkey card...we even used the same monkey stamp! lol)

So, that night I spent quite a bit of time lying awake trying to figure out what to do with this challenge. Well, I came up with the idea of a monkey disguising himself as a bird in order to sneak into their exclusive bird bath! Yeah, I know...it's a little crazy!! But hey, normal is boring folks! (just humour me, ok??...please??!!)

Now, I had to use High Hopes stamps of course!! I also wanted to honour Amy's challenge topic by sort of sticking to her original idea of a "Flutterby". So, I pulled out "Burt's Bath" and "Mike on a Vine". I stamped my images, but only inked up part of each. Obviously, poor Burt was eliminated from the final product...sorry Burt, nothing personal!! The bird bath was stamped directly on the Neenah paper. Mike was stamped separately, and removed from his vine. Mike's one arm was cut apart from his body, and re-attached at a different angle (to hold the hand-drawn brush). I cut around the bubbles and the rim of the birdbath to slip Mike in. I also drew some wings and adhered them to Mike's back. I drew some straps over his shoulders to "attach" the wings to.

I also decided to draw in some birdies who are not very happy about a monkey invading their bird bath! Oh...and I also added in a bottle of "Lot's 'O Bubbles" (again, my own drawing), which have completely overflowed from the bath onto the poor little birdies' heads! The bubbles were all given a coat of Stickles. I just couldn't resist using this Sentiment from High Hopes newest release..."It seemed like a good idea at the time!"...lol!!

So, what do you think?? I giggled the whole way through this card! I hope both Lacey and Jeanette are pleased!! Now, it's my turn to think up a dare...look out ladies!! If nothing else, this card will perhaps show you that stamps are not always limited to just one purpose!! Creative masking and trimming can open up all sorts of possibilities!

Time to hop on over to the High Hopes blog to see what the other Divas have created. I hope you decide to play along this week (just remember to use a High Hopes stamp). Link up your creation on the challenge blog, and you just might be the winner of a High Hopes prize!

Have fun stampers!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: High Hopes Stamps "Burt's Bath", "Mike on a Vine" and "Good Idea" (the birds, brush and bubble bath bottle were all hand-drawn)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black and Summer Sky, Copic markers, Copic Multiliner

Paper: Neenah, Bazzill, Pink Paisley

Kraftin' Kimmie March Release Blog Hop!!

(This is one of two posts today! Just scroll up to find my High Hopes post or click here! I was "double-dared" by a couple of the HH Divas to create something very, ahem, "special" this week!!)

Today's the day...it's time for the March Release at Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps!! If you have arrived here from the talented Lacey Stephens' blog (isn't she fantastic?!), then you are on the right track. If not, simply start at the Challenge Blog where Kimmie has listed the order of the hop. That way you will not miss out on any of the gorgeous projects made by the Krafty Girls and Kimmie's special guests! You will want to make sure to leave comments on everybody's blog so you will be eligible for the prize!! Kimmie will be drawing some names from the comments to win some of the brand new March stamps!

The amazingly talented Crissy Armstrong has done it again!! She has brought us four gorgeous fairies for the March Release. It is my pleasure to introduce you to "Ophelia".



She is absoluately stunning, and I could not wait to colour her up. I love the delicate features of Crissy's fairies. She looks so gentle and peaceful...and then there's that beautiful little hummingbird. I adore hummingbirds! I "googled" a ruby throated hummingbird to try to colour this little one accurately. The image, as always, was stamped on Neenah and coloured with my Copic markers. This is quite a large image, so I didn't want to go with a fussy layout. I just layered her on some pretty paper from TCP. I added some satin ribbon, and a bit of paper ribbon from Daisy Buckets (the bow was made with my Bow Easy).



The sentiment I used on the inside of the card comes with Ophelia.



The next stop on the hop is the incredible Annie Rodrigue!! She has also brought us some fantastic images for this release!! One of Kimmie's March images is Annie's "Angry Ballerina", based on one of her original art pieces. Kimmie is giving away a 5x7 print of "Angry Ballerina" to a random winner drawn from every customer who places an order at her online store on March 15th or March 16th!

Off you go now to visit Annie. Make sure to hop on over to Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps to place your order when done!

Have a blessed day!

Melanie

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps "Ophelia" and accessory sentiment
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black and Summer Sky, Copic markers
Paper: Neenah, TCP, Bazzill
Embellishments: Ribbon (Walmart and Daisy Bucktes)

We Are Not Amused. (March Preview/KK Challenge)

Are you excited yet?? The March Release for Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps will be available for purchase tomorrow!! We will be having a Blog Hop to celebrate, but in the meantime the Krafty Girls are bringing you one more day of previews in combination with our weekly challenge! Your hostess this week is the incredible Tara, who has named her challenge "Bead It"! So stampers, time to break out those beads and get creative with them!

We are not amused"...lol, that's what comes to mind when I look at Annie Rodrigue's "Angry Ballerina"! Wow, the look on this little dancer's face is absolutely priceless! Poor girl got stuck playing the pig in her recital. "Angry Ballerina" is part of Kraftin' Kimmie's amazing MARCH RELEASE and is based on an original piece of art by Annie Rodrigue. (The sentiment I used on this card is part of Kimmie's Everyday Sentiments.)

Angry Ballerina was stamped on Neenah cardstock and coloured with Copic markers. I paired her up with this pretty paper from My Mind's Eye. My "beading" experience if very limited, so this was definitely a challenge for me! After machine stitching around the perimeter of my DP, I added these great metal flower beads I found at Walmart. I really wanted to make a beaded pin like Elaine did here, but I get into the beading aisle of a store, and am completely lost. So, if you ever see me standing there with a completely vacant or lost look, please help me!! lol

I added some Stickles to the tutu...can't have our dear little ballerina perform without some glitter!

Are you completely in love with Angry Ballerina? Kimmie is giving away a 5x7 print of the original artwork as a prize!! To be put in the draw for this, all you need to do is place an order at her online store on Sunday March 14th or Monday March 15th!!

I hope you play along with our challenge this week! You could be the lucky winner of a brand new stamp...but only if you use a Kraftin' Kimmie image on your card.

Remember to come back tomorrow for the Blog Hop and official release of the March Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps "Angry Ballerina" and "Everyday Sentiments"

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers

Paper: Neenah, Bazzill, SU, MME

Embellishments: Stickles, Metal beads and ribbon from Walmart, Prima Flowers, MM brads

Tools: Spellbinders Oval and Scalloped Oval, MS punch

Just Dance...It's March Release Time!!

Good morning!! It's Friday friends...we've made it through another week! My kids are celebrating as tomorrow marks the beginning of their March Break...a whole week off of school. Sigh...if only I were so lucky!! I'll still be at work next week, but I'm hoping to perhaps squeeze in a little time off. Here's hoping!!

Now, after all the fun of the Kraftin' Kimmie Spring Tea Party Stamp Kit release last week, it's hard to believe we've got another release for you already!! Remember though, the Spring Kit is a limited time offer available only at Kimmie's Online Store (and they are disappearing fast...better order yours now!). This is the regular time for Kimmie's monthly release!! The official date of the March release for Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps is Sunday March 14, 2010! I hope you are planning to join us for our BLOG HOP that day! In the meantime, make sure to check the Challenge Blog for a list of the Krafty Girls bringing you previews each day. We are all planning to use the brand new March images for our weekly challenge tomorrow too! So, by Sunday you should all know exactly which images you will be buying! Or, you could save yourself the grief of deciding and just get them all!

I would like to introduce you all to "Monique", one of Annie Rodrigue's brand new images for this month. I am a huge fan of dance and have an appreciation for many different genres, so I just love Monique in her high heeled tap shoes and top hat! I just love a good tap number! The sentiment used on the card comes with Monique.



Now, I should probably tell you that I too have some experience dancing in heels! lol My daughter's dance studio always includes both a Mom's and Dad's routine in the year end recital. It is an absolute blast! Last year, the mom's danced to "Single Ladies". We wore spangled silver tanks (which cost $70...ouch), jeans, heels and a big honkin' ring!! I'm not saying we were awesome, but it was so much fun!! (I do have pictures, but thought I would just leave it up to your imagination!!)

Monique was stamped on Neenah paper and coloured with my Copic markers. I added some Stardust Stickles to her cane, shoes and underskirt. I also attempted to make a spotlight. I used an oval Nestie as a template for the base and a straight edge for the actual beam. After sponging in the yellow, I added a bit of brown to deepen the edges. It didn't turn out exactly as I had pictured it in my mind, but I'm still quite happy with it. I adhered Monique with foam dots for dimension.




I hope you all plan to come back tomorrow to see more previews of the March release during our weekly challenge...and then join us for our Blog Hop on Sunday!! All the new images will be available for purchase on Sunday March 14, 2010. Remember, you will find a list of the Krafty Girls participating in today's preview on the Challenge Blog.

Lol...before you go, thought I'd give you all a little glimpse into my, ahem, "studio". I do not have a stamp room. I would love to have one, but right now our dining room doubles as my studio. So, here I am busy at work on my Monique card. (normally, my stamping attire is a sweatshirt and yoga pants, but I had just gotten home from work, and immediately started on my card!) You will see in this picture one of my 3 cats, Mia. She seems to think she fit quite nicely into the lid of my box. I disagree with her...notice the ripped corner?? She often "helps" me during the assembly process, as I tend to have out a lot of things that are fun for a cat to get into.



You'll notice my spotlight in progress in this shot. If you look in the background, you will also see one of my other cats, Bagheera. Apparently his foot needed a bath.

Blessings,

Melanie

(ps....Don't forget to check out the Town Scrapette's blog today for our weekly challenge, and your chance to win a fabulous prize from The Town Scrapper!! (this post will be up and running by 12:00 pm EST) Also, see my post here regarding an upcoming event in Petrolia, Ontario!!)

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps "Monique" and accompanying sentiment

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Distress Ink Tea Dye, Cat's Eye ink in Daffodil, Copic markers

Paper: Bazzill, Daisy Buckets, Neenah

Embellishments: Rhinestones and Ribbon (coloured with a Copic marker) from Walmart

Tools: Spellbinders Ovals and Labels 8

Just a Whole Lot of News!! (Including an upcoming EVENT!)

Ok, no card today stampers. Sorry about that. I had something come up last night that prevented me from crafting...but I'll be a busy bee tonight getting ready to bring you some projects over the next several days!

So, I thought I would give you a bit of a NEWS FLASH!! There are so many great things to let you know about, so thought I would combine them in one post!

SWEET 'N SASSY: Today is Digi Day over on our Sweet 'n Sassy group on SNR, and Korin will be your hostess!! Join her at the group for a challenge and great chatting! Don't forget to stop by the store and see all the digi stamps available for purchase! These stamps are such a bargain, and you are bound to see something (or probably lots of somethings!! lol) that you will want!

KRAFTIN' KIMMIE STAMPS: Did you all see the Spring Tea Party Stamp Kit Kimmie released last week?? It's available exclusively at her online store, and only for a limited time! They are going fast, so make sure to order yours now. That's not the only excitement! Today, the Krafty Girls are beginning the previews for the MARCH RELEASE!! Wow...so many new and fantastic images! Hop on over to our challenge blog to see who all has previews for you to drool over! I will be posting previews for Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, we are having yet another BLOG HOP!! This will also be the day that the new stamps are available for purchase. Stay tuned for more details on that!

THE TOWN SCRAPPER: Phebe's store in Petrolia is hopping! Did you hear her big news?? She has released an exclusive stamp line designed for the Town Scrapper by Victoria Case!! Not only that, but our DT (Formerly the Humble Pie Bakers) now has a new name! We are officially "The Scrapettes"!! I love this new name...look for an updated logo in my sidebar soon!

UPCOMING TOWN SCRAPPER EVENT(Including colouring demos by Phebe, Krista and me!...gulp!!): Phebe has also been hard at work on a fantastic fundraiser!! She is planning a cardmaking event on March 27, 2010 in Petrolia, Ontario! It will run from 12:00 to 4:00 pm. She has planned three separate demos with three of her brand new Victoria Case images! Phebe will be doing a watercolour demo...her colouring is just beautiful! She asked the very talented current guest Scrappette Krista to do a Copic session!! She has also asked me if I would be willing to do a Copic demonstration. Now let me tell you...I'm a bit nervous! I have never done anything like this before! I will emphasize that I am NOT Copic Certified, so this will not be a typical Copic class. I will just be demonstrating how I colour, and what works for me. If you are interested, please contact Phebe as she only has a few spots left! You will find her contact information on her blog here.

Now, I did prepare a list of the Copics I used when colouring the Victoria Case image (Phebe told me that Krista also prepared a list of colours she plans to use). If you are coming to the demonstration, you can contact Phebe or myself for this list. It is not mandatory that you have the exact colours. We can always work with what you have. This list will coordinate with the papers I will be using for the card. Please though...do not feel as though you need to go out and buy each and every colour!

However, if you are wanting to invest in some markers, I would suggest shopping at Skribbles and Scraps in Sarnia, Ontario!! This is a fantastic store!! Bob and Jennie are the owners. They are so very friendly, and I love stopping by their place! They are very knowledgable in all things Copic, and have a great selection of the markers, cases, refills...anything you need to get colouring! Jennie teaches Copic classes for various levels of experience. They also stock my favourite paper Neenah...just don't clean them out, because I need to stop by there and pick up more! lol You will also find Memento inkpads there...the best ink (in my opinion) for Copic compatibility! (Their store is also full of other fantastic product lines...plan to spend a while there!!) You will find their contact info on their store website here. If you stop in there or call, tell them I said hi!!

Well, that's all for now. Please come back tomorrow! Remember, I'll have a card showcasing one of the brand spankin' new images from Kraftin' Kimmie's March Release!

See you tomorrow!

Blessings,

Melanie

Sitting Pretty Anya

Welcome to another Monday Showcase for The Town Scrapper!! I just love these Showcases. I find them such a nice way to start of a week! Oh, have you heard the big news yet?? Phebe, owner of The Town Scrapper, has just released a line of stamps illustrated by none other than Victoria Case!! They are absolutely adorable, and I'm sure you will want to add each and every one to your collection! For our Town Scrapper Design Team (Formerly called Humble Pie) weekly challenge last Friday, some of the DT made some fabulous cards with these new image, so make sure to spend a while looking at their gorgeous projects!

Today, my card features another image from the Miss Anya Love set from The Greeting Farm. (I showed you another of the Miss Anya Love images a couple of weeks ago...you can see that post here.) Phebe has a bunch of great Greeting Farm stamps in stock! These stamps are fabulous, and always produce a nice, crisp image. I am quite partial to the Miss Anya collection. I find them so versatile.

Last week, I made my very first gate fold card. I found it so much fun (and quite easy!), so decided to make another for this card. The gorgeous paper you see here is a double sided sheet from Imaginesce. Phebe has this particular paper in stock right now! It has a really pretty shimmer...so perfect for those "girly" projects!


I stamped Anya on Neenah cardstock and coloured her with my Copic markers. She is perched on a layered circle and scalloped circle medallion I cut out with my Nestabilities from Spellbinders. This is another great product line Phebe carries, and she just told me that she got in a brand new shipment!!

Make sure to pay Phebe a visit in gorgeous Petrolia Ontario! The Town Scrapper contact information is listed on her blog. I also have a picture of her store sign in my sidebar which is a direct link to her blog! If you are too far to visit, feel free to give Phebe a call! Her customer service is top notch!

Check out the rest of the Monday Showcase examples by our DT on the Town Scrapper Challenge Blog! You will see many of the stamp and product lines Phebe carries. Remember...the new Victoria Case stamps are now in!!

Blessings!!

Melanie

Stamps: The Greeting Farm "Miss Anya Love"
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic Markers
Paper: Bazzill, Neenah, Imaginesce
Tools: Spellbinders
Embellishments:Walmart ribbon, various dollar store treasures

Seeing Stars

(This is my second post for today! Make sure to check out the Kraftin' Kimmie Spring Tea Party Stamp Kit BLOG HOP by scrolling down, or just click here!)

Happy Sunday morning! The last couple of days have been just gorgeous in Southwestern Ontario! It's so nice to see the sun...I even had my windows open for a bit!

You know what today is! Time for a new challenge over at High Hopes!! Today, our hostess is the very talented Danielle and she has named her challenge "Seeing Stars". She would like to see you use stars on your project. This could be on the DP, buttons, "star dust"...whatever you choose!

I pulled out "Wingin' it Duck" and paired him up with this fun Bo Bunny paper with stars on it. I am always in the need of masculine cards, so I stayed away from anything "girly" on this one. Just a simple layout with a few buttons and distressed edges. I also used a High Hopes sentiment, "Open Happy Birthday".

I stamped my image on Neenah cardstock and coloured him with Copic markers. What a fun duck! You know, I can't remember the last time I attempted a cartwheel! I'm pretty sure the outcome would not be pretty if I tried right now. lol

Would you like a chance to win a High Hopes stamp?? Well, hop on over to the blog to see what the Divas have created for inspiration. Then, ink up a High Hopes image and make something "starry"! Link up your creation on the blog, and you'll have the chance to be this week's winner!

We can't wait to see what you've made!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: High Hopes Stamps,

Paper: Neenah, Bazzill, Bo Bunny

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black and Rich Cocoa, Copic markers

Embellishtments: Dollar store buttons

Tools: Spellbinders Circles and Scalloped Circles

Kraftin' Kimmie's Spring Tea Party Stamp Kit Blog Hop!

(This is one of two posts today! If you are looking for my High Hopes challenge post, please scroll up, or just click here!!)

Whew! What a week of fun it has been showing you Kraftin' Kimmie's very first stamp kit!! When Kimmie first showed the Krafty Girls this Tea Party Kit, we all fell in love with it! I hope you have enjoyed visiting the Krafty Girl's blogs this week to see what they've made to get you inspired! This incredible kit is being offered exclusively at Kraftin' Kimmie's online store. In case you've missed all the buzz this week, here's what's in the Spring Tea Party Kit:

• 5 main images by Annie Rodrigue


• 5 accessories stamps


• 2 sets of coordinating tea and coffee sentiments (created by Jeanne Streiff) with 32 phrases in total!

This kit is being offered to you at an amazing price!! You should act quickly though stampers, as they've already been flying off the shelves! You don't want to miss out, so make sure to order your's today.

Ok, so we've been promising you a blog hop, and today's the day!! The talented artist of this kit, Annie Rodrigue, is joining us today for the fun! So, if you've arrived here from the fabulous and sassy Andrea's blog, then you're on the right track! If not, make sure to start at The Challenge Blog so you don't miss out on anything!!

Kimmie has listed the blog hop order on the Challenge Blog.

I decided to use Gabrielle again. I had wanted to use her with that French Flea Market paper from MME. I know you might be tired of seeing it, as I've been using it all week. Let me explain though! I picked this paper up with the intention of using it for this Spring Kit release! I just love the colours in it, and thought they were perfect for these images! Now, Kimmie's challenge yesterday did not allow me to use my new paper with Gabrielle, hence my decision to ink her up again for today!! (well, technically I didn't use these papers with Nadine, so perhaps I should make another card with her too...so I have a complete coordinating set!)

I also wanted to do something other than a card. I had picked up these fabulous wooden baskets at Michaels on a recent trip to London...perfect for a gift holder!! I covered one with Bazzill cardstock and MME paper. I sanded down all the edges. I also had a pack of wooden tags from Michaels that I covered the same way. This is a sentiment you will receive in the Spring Kit! I added a few Prima Hydrangeas, metal spacer beads, a bow tied with my Bow Easy, and VOILA!! I perfect little holder for some tea bags.

Now, from here you will be hopping over to visit the brilliant artist of these fantastic images, Annie Rodrigue!! Before you go though, did you know that there's a prize up for grabs?? You can't have a BLOG HOP without a prize right?? Kimmie will be randomly choosing two lucky hoppers to win some Tea Party stamps and accessories!! To get your name in the draw for this prize, all you have to do is leave a comment on every Krafty Girl's blog!! Easy peasy!

So, off you go to see Annie! Make sure to get over to Kimmie's online store after you are done hopping. It's the only place you will find this exclusive kit. They are moving fast stampers, so make sure to get one ordered now!

Have fun on the hop!

Have a blessed day!

Melanie

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Spring Tea Party Stamp Kit "Gabrielle" and Tea Party Sentiments
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic markers
Paper: Bazzill, My Mind's Eye "French Flea Market"
Embellishments: Walmart ribbon, Prima Hydrangeas, metal spacer beads (umm...guess I should mention Twining's Tea too!)

Final Kraftin' Kimmie Spring Tea Party Stamp Kit Preview...and a Challenge too!!

Ok, that might be my longest title ever for a post! lol Today, the Krafty Girls are introducing you to the final main image from Kraftin' Kimmie's Spring Tea Party Stamp Kit! All week long, we've been showing you projects made with the other four cast members...Nadine, Giselle, Henri and Lisette. Today, you will meet "Gabrielle"!! Now, for the followers of Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps Challenge Blog, you already know that Saturdays are the day we post our weekly challenge...don't despair, we still have a challenge for you!! lol The Krafty Girls are using "Gabrielle" as our image for the challenge!! This week, the head honcho Miss Kraftin' Kimmie herself, is the hostess!! Your challenge: use "old" stuff on your project! (now, yes we did cheat a little because we are using a brand-spankin' new image...so I guess this is a case of "do as I say, not as I do"??!! hehe) Now, I had to ask Miss Kimmie what would be considered "old"...one year, one month, one week....one day??? Just make sure you are pulling stuff out of your supply stash...no last minute trips to your local store to pick up that "perfect" missing element!

Ok, I'm sure you're anxious to see our final Tea Party cast member. So, without further ado, here's "Gabrielle"!

She's so proper, don't you think?? I just love her party dress...and that hair!! That's some big hair...too bad she wasn't a child of the 80's, huh? lol I dug through my paper stash, and came up with this pretty KaiserCraft paper (for the record, it is a few month's old!!). I paired it up with various Bazzill cardstocks and a little snippet of some polka-dotted DP from 3 Bugs in a Rug (ok, this paper isn't super-old, but it's been in my stash for at least 2 weeks!) "Gabrielle's" accessory stamp is the little "Teacup" you see on the heart tag.

I stamped my images on Neenah cardstock and coloured with Copic markers.

I hope you plan to participate in our challenge this week! Just remember, you need to use a Kraftin' Kimmie image! So, time to get yourself over to Kraftin' Kimmie's online store and order yourself some goodies! Remember, the Spring Tea Party Stamp Kit is exclusively available at the online store...you're not going to find it in any of your local stores. Also, it's a limited edition...so act fast! Hey, while you're there, why not pick up some "old" stamps too!!

Don't forget...we are having a BLOG HOP tomorrow to celebrate the Spring Tea Party Stamp Set!! You won't want to miss it, so make sure you come back bright and early tomorrow morning!

Oh...one more reminder!! lol Don't forget to hop around to all the Krafty Girls blogs. They've been hard at work this week bringing you projects made with this fantastic Kit!! So go on and leave them some love!

Blessings,

Melanie

Stamps: Kraftin' Kimmie Stamps "Gabrielle", "Teacup" and Tea Pary Sentiments

Paper: Neenah, KaiserCraft, Bazzill, 3 Bugs in a Rug

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black. Copic markers

Embellishments: Machine stitching, Walmart ribbon, dollar store treasures (wooden tag, pearls, brads)

Tools: Spellbinders Ovals and Scalloped Ovals