Too Cool Stamping

Big Brothers Big Sisters Event Projects

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Hi Stamping Friends!

I'm so excited to be demonstrating at a special Big Brothers Big Sisters event later today.  We'll have nearly 40 Bigs and Littles crafting cute Mother's Day projects and I can't wait! 

My friend Debbie Groulik organized the event and has been involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters for many years, even being selected the National Big Sister of the Year in 2009.  I found this heartwarming video featuring her and her first Little, Jocelyn....check it out!

 

This video totally makes me tear up every time I watch it!  *sniff*  She is such an inspiration to me and so many others!  Thanks so much, Debbie!

If you would like to learn more, visit BigBrothersBigSisters.org.

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At tonight's event, we'll be creating three different projects.  I used mostly retiring products, so you'll have to substitute stamps and accessories if you want to duplicate them, but the ideas are too cute not to share!  

Best Blossom Butterfly Brag Book

Our main project is a Mother's Day Brag Book that will hold 10 4x6" photos.  See complete details on how to assemble this cute project at Bird Brag Book Tutorial.  You can see other brag book projects I've done here: Elements of Syle Brag Book,  Beary Best Brag Book, and Vintage Vogue Brag Book.  

The front and back covers are 7-1/4" x 4-3/4" and both are scored at 1" with the Simply Scored Tool to allow them to open easily.

I wheeled on the Very Vintage background in Soft Suede first for a patterned background.  Then, I used the retired Best Blossom stamp set with several retired inks for a beautiful bouquet.  It was kind of fun to use my Orchid Opulence, Buckaroo Blue and Mellow Moss colors again. 

I added a 6" x 1-1/4" strip of Rich Razzleberry card stock, texture embossed with the Delicate Details Folder along the bottom of the cover.

The sentiment is from the retired All Year Cheer II, stamped in Buckaroo Blue on Whisper White and punched out with the 2-1/2" Circle Punch. 

I thought the Littles would love playing with butterflies just as much as me, so I used the Elegant Butterfly Punch and Bitty Butterfly Punch to create some accents.  The Designer Paper is from the retired Sycamore Street Sale-A-Bration pack and Patio Party. 

My second version has more stamping on the left side of the cover. 

If you haven't noticed, I absolute love the look of lined up butterflies!  I couldn't resist trying it here with the retired Well-Scripted sentiment punched with the Decorative Label Punch.

The inside of the brag book is 5 Clear Envelopes adhered together and sandwiched between the covers.  They are the perfect size for photos!

Once the layers were assembled, I finished off the book with a Not Quite Navy spine.  It's 2" x 4-3/4" and scored at the 1" mark.  I adhered it to the covers with SNAIL adhesive, then added some Bright Brads to secure it.

Petite Purse Nugget Holder

These are so fun and easy to make with the Petite Purse Die!  I used some of my retired Designer paper, and adhered the sides and handle with Mulitpurpose Glue. 

The purses are decorated with a flower-shaped button from Regals Buttons or Brights Buttons packs (retiring soon) for the "clasp."

I used the Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch to add a decorative edge to two of the purses using the flip-side of the same paper.  The houndstooth purse has an Itty Bitty Punch scrunched flower accent.

You can fit several Hershey's Nuggest inside for a yummy gift!

 

Comfort Café Butterfly M&M's Magnet

And, speaking of yummy, our third project is a take on the M&M's Butterfly Magnet I featured last month (shown above).  Since it's past Easter, we'll be using regular colors of fun-sized M&Ms, so I tried to coordinate with the brown of the regular, yellow of the peanut and red of the peanut butter M&Ms.  I think the retiring Comfort Café DSP worked perfectly (thanks for the idea, Michelle!). 

The butterflies are made by snipping two petals off of the Blossom Punch shape, then wrapping with White Baker's Twine.  The body is Daffodil Delight patterned paper from the Brights Designer Series Paper Stack adhered to a clothespin with a magnet on the back.  See more details on how to make them at the M&M's Butterfly Magnet post.

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Wow Techniques Class This Friday! 

If you're in the Fort Wayne, IN area, I'd love for you to join us at our Wow Techniques Class on Friday, May 10 at 6:30pm.  Any level of stamper is welcome!  Cost is $15, or the class is FREE with a minimum order placed at the event.* 

Be A Fashion Designer!  You'll have the chance to design your own dress with the Dress Up Framelits for a cool card, a matching Petite Purse Nugget Holder, and a fun Soda Pop Top necklace, too! 

You're gonna love this one! Give these awesome projects as Mother's Day gifts or treat yourself! 

RSVP For The Wow Techniques Class By Thursday, May 9 at 5pm.

* Minimum order is $25 to receive the free class.  Other class, workshop or club orders do not qualify.

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Thanks so much for stopping by today!  Hope to see you a one of my events soon!

Angie

Final Hours of Sale-A-Bration & Two Cool Happy Hello Projects

This Is It!  Bye, Bye, Sale-A-Bration!

Sale-A-Bration ends tonight at 11:50pm MT, so there's just enough time to get in that last $50 order to earn your FREE exclusive Sale-A-Bration item! 

Hurry—Place your order NOW at my Online Store!

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Hi Stamping Friends!

Well, here we are, with the clocking ticking down to the final moments of the most awesome Stampin' Up! promotion of the year!  I'm always a little sad, because there are always so many cute stamp sets and accessories that I have to say goodbye to.  And, there are so many projects that I "wanted" to get made before those awesome products were gone for good.  *sigh*

The Happy Hello Simply Sent Card Kit (#130149) from the Sale-A-Bration flyer is one of those selections that I never used to its full potential.  You can certainly do quick and cute cards, but I love to see how we can alter these pre-printed cards for fun! 

I started playing around with the kit a few weeks ago and tried out these two cool projects...

Here I added a small strip of Floral District Designer Series Paper to the front, and adhered some coordinating Tangerine Tango card stock to the inside. 

I wrapped the card front with Primrose Petals Stitched Satin Ribbon, tied it in a double-knot and trimmed for a faux-bow. 

The flower embellishment was created with the Blossom Punch and more Floral District DSP.  I layered three punches together and slit each petal between the scallops, curving them upward to create even more dimension. 

The center of the flower uses yellow accents from the Happy Hello Kit.  The middle is one of the Floral District DSP flowers punched with the Boho Blossoms Punch and topped with a Rhinestone Jewel.  Fun!

The second project uses two Happy Hello notecards to make a cute purse!  I CASEd this idea from Lyssa Griffin Zwolanek at Song of My Heart Stampers, and you can find her photo tutorial there.

You simply score the first card at 3" and 5-1/2", and with the score that's already there, it will make a "W" fold.  Adhere the other card to the back of the first card.  Add some Basic Gray 1/4" Stitched Ribbon for a handle, and some Velcro for a closure and you're good to go!  It's cute way to give a gift card, don't you think?! 

Last Chance!  Check out the Happy Hello Kit and all of the Sale-A-Bration items you can earn...choose one FREE item for every $50 you spend! 

And, don't forget that you can earn a FREE Sale-A-Bration Celebration Stamp Camp when you place at least $150 in orders during Sale-A-Bration!  Click the above link for details!

Angie

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Too Cool Promotion Quick Links! 

• Browse Spring Catalog—Flash Player
• Shop Spring Catalog—Online Store
• Sent With Love Promotion—Now Thru April 30.
• MyPaperPumpkin.com—Monthly Kit Subscription.  Sign up by March 10.
• Best of 25 Years Stamps—New stamp set each month!
• NEW A Round Array Bundle—New catalog sneak peek thru May 30.
  
• NEW Price on MDS—Now only $19.95 for full software & content! 
• The Basics Online Class—34 project lessons, only $14.95
• Photopolymer All-Clear Stamps—New Designer Typeset set!

Events—Mark Your Calendars!

• "Last Thursdays" Monthly Cards Class—March 28
• Sale-A-Bration Promotion—Ends March 22...Don't Miss It!
• Sale-A-Bration Celebration FREE Stamp Camp—April 20, 1-3pm.

Howlstooth & Scaringbone Sweet Treat Cup Card

My Too Cool Demo Team is awesome!  Such a fantastic group...and they always inspire me with their fantastic project ideas!  At last Monday's meeting, Carmen DeBruce led a fun & tasty, Halloween make & take!  Check it out!

It's a cute 3x3" "Sweet Treats" card featuring a Sweet Treat Cup filled with M&M's!  Now, that's my kind of note card!  YUM!

We decorated the front with Howlstooth & Scaringbone Designer Series Paper.

There's plenty of room to write your note on the inside of the card, plus there's a trap-door that opens to allow you to access the M&M's candies!

There they are, my yummy little vitamin M's!  The pull tab is topped with a punch from the retired Round Tab Punch, but you could use any label or circle punch instead.

After all the M&M's are gone (*burp*), you can see that the pull tab is even decorated with the leftover 1-3/4" Circle punch-out.  The "sweet treats" stamp from Teeny Tiny Wishes is the perfect sentiment!

Make Your Own Treat Cup Card—Becky Roberts from Inking Idaho has a terrific, step-by-step tutorial for creating one of these too cool treats: 3x3" Treat Cups Card with Sliding Door.

Complete Supplies List:

• Stamps—Teeny Tiny Wishes
  
• Ink—Basic Black Classic Ink
• Paper—Howlstooth & Scaringbone DSP; Basic Grey and Tangerine Tango card stock  
• Accessories—Sweet Treat Cups, M&M's
• Tools—1-3/4" Circle Punch, Round Tab Punch (retired), SNAIL, Glue Dots

Order supplies used on today's projects, at my Online Store!

Angie

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Holiday Catalog Quick Links!

• See Holiday Catalog PDF
• Browse Holiday Catalog by Flash Player
• Shop Holiday Catalog Items Online
• Holiday Stampin' Supplies List - for samples in the catalog

Sunday Showcase: 12 Stampin' Up! Designer Fabrics Projects

After seeing the awesome Spice Cake Quilted Card Box that my Other Mother created with our Designer Fabrics, I decided to find some other fun fabric ideas to share for today's Sunday Showcase! 

I discovered lots of fun projects online, but I'm featuring only the ones made with current Designer Fabrics that also have a link to instructions so you could CASE them.  Hope you find something that inspires you!

 

Dresden Designs Scissors Holder created by Ann Clemmer at Stamper Dog.

What a darling way to protect and store your Paper Snips!  Ann used the Dresden Designs Bigz Die and Summer Smooches Designer Fabric to create these. 

 

iPhone covers created by Tisha Stamps.

Tisha used the Twitterpated Designer Fabric to create two cool handy iPhone covers that clip onto your purse, backpack or belt loop.  Cute!

Spice Cake Petite Purse created by Frenchie Stamps.

Apply Spice Cake Designer Fabric to card stock with the Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets, then die-cut them with the Petite Purse Die for a more realistic fabric purse look!  The Naturals Designer Buttons match perfectly!

Timeless Frame created by Julia Leece at Julia's Cards.

You can also use Multipurpose Adhesive Sheets to adhere your fabric to other objects.  In this case, Timeless Portrait Designer Fabric was applied to a picture frame.  Pretty!

Timeless Purse created by Jo Dumbleton at Stampin' 'n Stuff with instructions by made-by-rae.

This cute Timeless Portrait Designer Fabric purse makes me want to try sewing, for sure!  It's finished off with a matching fabric rosette flower and Antique Brad center.  I want one!

Timeless Fabric Coasters created by Julia Leece at Julia's Cards.

For an easier sewing project, try these simple Timeless Portrait Designer Fabric coasters!  What a cute gift idea!

Summer Smooches Coffee Cozy created by Dawn Olchefske at DO Stamping.

How about these adorable Summer Smooches Designer Fabric and Twitterpated Designer Fabric coffee cozies!  They are embellished with gathered fabric rosettes, retired Designer Buttons, and each feature a little pocket for your sweetener.  Too cool!

Beau Chateau Pouch created by Fran Sabad at Stampersblog.

This Beau Chateau Designer Fabric gift pouch has a gathered closure with 1/8" Marina Mist Taffeta Ribbon.  What a fantastic way to share a special keepsake with someone special!

Beau Chateau Wreath created by Erika Clark at InkyPinkies.

Creative a beautiful wreath with layers of die-cut and twisted Beau Chateau Designer Fabric flowers!  Simply gorgeous!

 

Tissue Holder created by Dawn Olchefske at DO Stamping.

Create a cover for your travel pack of tissues.  Dawn made examples in both Flirtatious Designer Fabric and Spice Cake Designer Fabrics.  Simple to make and cute, cute, cute!

Created by Lyssa Griffin Zwolenek at Song of My Heart Stampers.

Lyssa created this adorable dress with one package of Spice Cake Designer Fabric.  Check her site for complete instructions.

Flirtaious Photo Board created by Lyssa Griffin Zwolanek at Song of My Heart Stampers.

Here's a simple, no-sew project with Flirtatious Designer Fabric—a photo & memo board!  Also features Melon Mambo Scallop Dots Ribbon and fabric flowers created with Circles #2 die-cuts.  I need to make one of these for my Studio!

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Hope you found some new ideas for using Stampin' Up! Designer Fabrics!  I know I sure did!  Thanks to all the fabulous fabric artists for sharing their projects!

See the complete selection of Stampin' Up! Designer Fabrics at my Online Store!

Have you created a project with Designer Fabrics?  I'd love to see it!  Attach a link to your project photo in the Comment Section below!

Angie

Betsy's Blossoms Two Cool Birds Card By Linda

My friend Linda Cox sent me a lovely card last week using the new Betsy's Blossoms stamp set and featuring the new 2012-2014 In Colors.

 

I love the layered look of the punched decorative borders on the background and the rounded corners on the bottom.  But Linda also featured a couple of Too Cool techniques that you may not notice at first glance.  Check it out!

 

There are two Midnight Muse birds on the card, but only the first one is from the Betsy's Blossoms stamp set! 

 

See what she did for the second one?  She punched a Bird Punch from Midnight Muse card stock for the bird body.  Then, it looks like she stamped with a coordinating Betsy's Blossoms "bush" image and punched two wings from the image with the Bird Punch!  Genius!

I also noticed that the branch that is popping out of the "box" is actually stamped on the same layer!  She used a craft knife to cut that side so the branch is sticking out!  Love that detail!

Thanks so much for the card and the inspiration, Linda!  Too Cool!

Angie

Sunday Showcase: Mocha Morning Petite Purses Collection

I think you're gonna LOVE today's Sunday Showcase!  I do! 

It features the brand new Petite Purse Die available for only two more days during the Summer Smooches New Catalog Sneak Peek, now thru April 30.

Now it's easy to create mini purses in a snap!  They are the perfect size for favors for all kinds of celebrations: weddings, showers, birthday parties, girls night out, mother's day, and more! 

Girls of any age will love making them, or receiving them, because they are simply Too Cute!

I had a fantastic time making a whole collection of purses using the soon-to-retire Mocha Morning Specialty Paper.  Be sure to get this paper right away—it will only be available while supplies last thru May 31!

Are these not ADORABLE?!!!!  The elegance and neutral colors of the Mocha Morning DSP is perfect for creating petite purses!  So classy!  Let's check out the details on each one!

 

The soft, velvet flocking on this specialty paper makes this purse fancy without a lot of frills.  I added a matching Antique Brad and it was done!  Quick and easy!

TIP: I highly recommend using Sticky Strip adhesive when assembling any 3D project.  This adhesive is strong and easy-to-use, so your projects will not come apart!

Even though these purses are mini in size, they surprisingly hold quite a bit!  The purse dimensions (without the handle) are 2" tall, 3" wide, and 1-1/2" deep.  You can hold three "fun size" candy bars, four Hershey's Nuggets, all sorts of other small candies, plus jewelry, hair accessories, and money with ease!

 

This one may be my favorite!  I love the Perfect Polka Dot embossing on the Basic Black card stock purse for a subtle texture, but the gold and black striped paper really adds richness! 

The closure is a paper flower created by four Boho Blossom punches scrunched up and attached with a Mini Silver Brad. 

Even though you get a die-cut handle with the Petite Purse Die, don't forget that you can change up the handle any way you want.  Here, I added a Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch handle accented with more striped paper. 

 

OOoooh!  This one looks SO designer!  The glistening gold fleur de lis pattern makes a beautiful background.  But it's the detailed embellishments that make this one special!

I added strips of Early Espresso card stock along the base of the purse by simply die-cutting the purse shape again, then trimming off the parts I needed for a perfect fit. 

I love the 1/8" Early Espresso Taffeta Ribbon mimicking the classic look of so many designer purses.  I attached the ribbon with Multipurpse Adhesive.

I think the purse would have looked great with or without the Rhinestone Jewels, but I opted for the bling! 

When you use the double-sided Designer Series Papers, the nice part is that your purses are lined with coordinating colors!  Just like a real purse!  Love it!

 

For a softer, more vintage look, I chose the lighter Crumb Cake flourish pattern of Mocha Morning paper. I added some Chantilly Crochet Trim (soon to retire!), and matching Neutrals Buttons to dress it up, and finished it off with a Large Pearl Jewel "clasp."  So pretty!

 

Now for something a little bolder!  This large Soft Suede polka dot design is fresh and trendy, especially with the pop of red!  (I'm feeling a little like a fashion designer!  Teehee!) 

I added Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding ruffles under the flap by adhering with Sticky Strip.  Then, created a rose accent by knotting the ribbon over and over again (about 7-8 times) and attaching it with more Sticky Strip.  Finished with a matching Cherry Cobbler handle.

 

OK—This one isn't made from Mocha Morning Paper, but I had to try out a black patent leather purse, and it matched, so it's part of the collection, too! 

Here's a better view of the detail.  Too Cool!  I used the Simply Scored Diagonal Plate to create the diamond pattern over the entire purse die-cut.  Then, I inked VersaMark over the whole piece and heat embossed with Clear Embossing Powder.  I love this shiny faux leather look!

Side Note: If you look closely at the embossing in the first two photos, you'll notice that I have lots of white flecks on the black. That's what happens when you have White Embossing Powder contaminating your Clear Embossing Powder.  The powders look identical until you heat them up...I must have had some remnants in my Powder Pal (retiring)...oops!

I added a Circle Ice Rhinestone Brad (retiring, get them at a discount while they last!) for a sparkling pop of color! 

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So what did you think of the Petite Purse Die projects?  I had so much fun designing them!  And, this was only the Mocha Morning line of purses—just think of all the endless possibilities with other papers, stamping techniques, and embellishments! 

Don't wait!  Get your Petite Purse Die while it's available through April 30 and become your own mini purse designer! 

Angie

Retiring Items Quick Links:

• Retired Accessories List PDF
• Retired Definitely Decorative Items PDF
• Retired Stamp List PDF
  

• Browse All Retired Products Online
• Browse Only Retired Ink, Paper & Accessories Online
• Browse Discounted Retired Accessories Online

Introducing The New Petite Purse Die!

Check out the new Petite Purse Bigz Die in action! 

Emily Montoya from Stampin' Up! introduces the Petite Purse Die, along with three cute projects, in her video below! (click HERE to take you to my actual post to see the video!)

 

Isn't it simply ADORABLE!  Wouldn't they be cute for a bridal shower or wedding favor?  Or a girl's birthday party?  Or, a cute and quick keepsake for your next Girls Night Out!  What about Mother's Day?!  Lots of possiblities!

This die is currently available as a Summer Smooches catalog sneak peek item through April 30.  Get it while it's available for fun spring treats!  Order the Petite Purse Bigz Die today at my Online Store!

Angie

3 Sassy Summer Smooches Projects & 3 Idea Galleries!

"My Favorite Ideas" Gallery

I love sharing Too Cool Stamping ideas with you here on this blog, but did you know that you can also find project ideas at my Too Cool Stamping website?

You know...that's the place where you can shop at my Online Stampin' Up! Store!

Well, there is also a gallery there filled with 100s of fun and unique projects created by Stampin' Up!.  Be sure to check it out: My Favorite Ideas. 

3 New Summer Smooches Projects

Three new projects have just been added to the My Favorite Ideas gallery and they're created with the products from the new Summer Smooches Suite!  Find out more about the fabulous Summer Smooch items available as a sneak peek now through April 30.

Click the links for project supplies.

3x3" Thanks Card—Featuring the Bright Blossoms stamp set, Summer Smooches Designer Paper, and Summer Smooches Fabric Brads.

Sweet Treats Purse—Created with the Petite Purse Die and decorated with the Bright Blossoms stamp set, Summer Smooches Designer Paper, and Daffodil Delight Seam Binding.  The actual die-cut has a flap closure on the purse, but I love the open top for a different look! 

Grateful Card—Featuring the Summer Smooches Designer Paper, plus Summer Smooches Designer Fabric as a cute gathered fabric flower with a Summer Smooches Fabric Brad center!

Find Even More Stampin' Up! Project Ideas

That's not all!  I also have links to even more project ideas on my website under the Stampin' Up! Ideas link under the Ideas tab.  There are three categories of projects created by Stampin' Up! that you can explore:

• Card Projects
• Scrapbooking Pages
• Papercrafting & Gifts

Don't Forget About The Idea Book & Catalog

And, while we're talking about where to get stamping ideas, don't forget about the fabulous Idea Book & Catalog as a resource!  With 100s of fantastic card, scrapbook and papercrafted gifts at your fingertips, you're sure to find some inspiration for designs and color combinations! 

Don't have a copy?  It's time to get one!  Here's how!

• Order one at my Online Store ($9.95, plus shipping & tax).
• Purchase one from me for $10.
• Receive a FREE Idea Book when you host a workshop. Contact me to schedule.
• Receive a FREE Idea Book with your $100 order. Order now at my Online Store.

The current 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog will only be available until May 31, and it is the last one in the "Idea Book" format, so don't miss out! 

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Now that you've got the inpsiration, it's time to get stamping!  Let me know if I can help!

Angie

Last Holiday Stamp-A-Stack Card—Last Day To Register!

Today is the last day to register for Wednesday's Holiday Stamp-A-Stack!  And, today I unveil the final Stamp-A-Stack cards.  I created them with my friend, and fellow purple-lover, in mind as she continues with her chemotherapy—this one is for you Deb Pott!

 

Bright Hopes stamp images work so beautifully with embossing on these Two Cool cards!  The new Pewter Embossing Powder looks divine on any dark card stock, but I especially love it on Concord Crush! 

The background is simple random stamping with the coordinating snowflake stamp in Concord Crush on Wisteria Wonder.  I used Whisper White layers for contrasting frames, but I think a layer of Brushed Silver card stock would have looked nice, too!  Maybe I'll add that under the sentiment somehow. 

Did you see the cool shape of the sentiment punch?  That's the longer version of the punch trick I showed you from the Decorative Label Punch.  You can see how it's done at the bottom of this post: Pennant Parade Holiday Tree Trio.

I added one Rhinestone Jewel to the center of the tree, but I may have to color that with my raspberry Sharpie, like I did for the mini versions from yesterday. 

I couldn't resist spritzing the whole thing with a little Shimmer mist spray.  Ooh la la!  Love it!  I'm totally addicted to this shimmer mist spray, and I blame it on Carmen DeBruce!

So, am I the only one who does this?  While admiring my beautiful new creation, I opened it to discover...

...oh crap!  The damn thing is decorated upside-down!  Has this ever happened to you?  Frustrating!

Floss TIP: Dental Floss to the rescue!  Just slip some dental floss (I prefer the unminted kind) in between the two card stock layers you want apart, and pull.  I've found that the easy-glide floss doesn't work as well.  Working the floss back & forth between the layers is not always easy to do if they are adhered well, so sometimes I have someone else hold the card while I pull the floss through.  But, it works!  Saved myself many a card with this handy tip!  I wish that this trick worked with DSP, too, but unfortunately it can rip or cut through the paper, so I wouldn't recommend it for that. 

Bonus TIP: I've heard from customers that dental floss is also a great way to slice cake!  Who knew?!

Complete Supplies List:

• Stamps—Bright Hopes
• Ink—VersaMark Ink, Concord Crush Classic Ink
  
• Paper—Concord Crush, Wisteria Wonder, Whisper White card stock 
  
• Accessories—Champagne Shimmer Paint (for rubbing alcohol spray mixture), Pewter Embossing Powder, Wisteria Wonder Ruffled Ribbon, Rhinestone Jewels
• Tools—Decorative Label Punch, Heat Tool, SNAIL

Find all the supplies at my Online Store!

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The rest of the Stamp-A-Stack cards!

Last Day To Register For The FREE Holiday Stamp-A-Stack Class!

• Date: November 30, 2011
• Time: 6-9:30pm
• Place: My house in Fort Wayne, IN (email for directions)
• Project: A Stack of 12 cards with envelopes

Create 12 beautiful holiday cards & envelopes (3 each of 4 designs).  Plus, be one of the first 12 people to sign up and place a $35 order, and your Stamp-A-Stack class is absolutely FREE!  It's an amazing value! 

These cards are cute and quick and loaded with fun techniques: coloring on stamps with markers, watercoloring, using Craft Ink, punches, texture embossing, heat embossing, and adding shimmer & glitter! 

See complete class details here.  Then contact me to sign up before end-of-day November 28 to reserve your space and place your order.  Space is limited.

Fine Print: Open to the first 12 people (first come, first served).  Local Fort Wayne area residents only.  One FREE class per person.  $35 merchandise order does not include shipping and tax. Online orders qualify, but this offer cannot be combined with my Online Extravaganza Bonus Gift offer, or any other current Too Cool Stamping offers.  Club and workshop orders do not qualify.

Can't wait to stamp a stack with you on Wednesday night!

The Online Extravaganza continues through Wednesday, November 30!  Visit my Online Store now, plus check out the amazing deals in the Clearance Rack!

Angie

Flirtatious "Quilted" Two Cool Cards Contest

So, are you ready for another Two Cool Cards Contest?  I thought these two pastel cards would be perfect!  Check out the cards, then see contest details below...

  

Today's cards feature the Flirtatious Specialty Designer Series Paper and the Embedded Embossing (or Inlaid Embossing) technique. I love that it makes the paper almost look like it's quilted together! 

I die-cut a Top Note in Whisper White, adhered either a variety of sizes of circles or stripes in different widths, then ran the whole thing through the Big Shot with the Square Lattice Impressions Folder. 

The backgrounds are also embossed, then edged with the new Lace Ribbon Border Punch in Daffodil Delight.  The sentiments are stamps from the new Happiest Birthday Wishes Hostess set, and they are colored with markers before stamping. 

Complete Supplies List:

• Stamps—Happiest Birthday Wishes
• Ink—Wisteria Wonder, Concord Crush, Pretty In Pink, Daffodil Delight Markers
  
• Paper—Flirtatious Specialty DSP, Wisteria Wonder, Pretty In Pink, Daffodil Delight, and Whisper White card stock, 
  
• Accessories—Wisteria Wonder Ruffled Ribbon, Brights Designer Buttons, White Baker's Twine
• Tools—Top Note Die, Lace Ribbon Border Punch, Square Lattice Impressions Folder, Dimensionals, SNAIL. Card #1: Perfect Polka Dots Impressions Folder, Itty Bitty Circle Punch, 1/2" Circle Punch, 3/4" Circle Punch, 1-3/8" Circle Punch, Scallop Circle Punch.  Card #2: Stripes Impressions Folder, Large Tag Punch, Extra-Large Tag Punch

Two Cool Cards Contest

OK—now for the contest!  Can you find at least 5 differences between the two Flirtatious "Quilted" cards pictured above?   If so, you can qualify to win a your choice of either the very slightly used retired Holiday Best set or new retired Cute As A Bug set.

9/1/2011: Answers are posted here.

  

To enter, email your answers to me with the words "Two Cool" in the subject line, by Tuesday, August 30, 2011.  If you have at least 5 differences, you will be entered into the contest. 

Fine print: Qualifying entries will be assigned a number in the order they are received, and the winning number will be selected will be selected by Random.org.  Winner will be announced on August 31, 2011.  US Residents only. Fellow demonstrators may participate.  Doesn't this sound official?

Looking forward to receiving your emails!  Good luck!

Angie

Awesome Roomie Gifts & Stampin' Up! Staff Stalking

So, I was flipping through my Convention photos and realized that I had never shared the awesome roomie gifts that Jodi Geers and Darla Eigenschink made for me! 

   

Jodi created this circle keepsake album in a beautiful, round, papier maché box!  It's for holding all of our fun Convention photos and memories!  Love it!

I love how Jodi decorated the top of the box (in my favorite purple colors, no less!).  The flower is from the Daisies #2 Die with an Antique Brad in the center.  The leaves are punched from the Scallop Oval Punch: fold card stock in half, punch a semi-oval, then slice halfway down the fold and adhere ends together to pleat.  I love the softness of the Vanilla Seam Binding for a ruffled border. 

The background paper is from the In Color Designer Patterns Paper Stack. 

The inside circles are cut with the Clear Circle Die, then attached to one another with Vanilla Seam Binding and Silver Brads.  

  

Darla made a cute beach tote filled with lotion, body wash, an Owl bookmark and some chocolate!  She used the Vintage Vogue stamp set to stamp the "Friends" embellishement, as well as the tissue paper. 

The middle panel was embossed with the Vintage Wallpaper Impressions Folder, then inked to make the detail stand out.  The polka dot Razzleberry ribbon is retired (it was one of my all-time favorite ribbons!). 

And, isn't the Owl Punch bookmark adorable?!  The folded card stock is cut with the Two Tags Die (I've seen this done as a Magnet Bookmark, too). 

Thanks so much for your thoughtful and creative gifts, Jodi and Darla!  I love them!  You rock!     


Congratulations & Welcome

My long-time Stamp Club member, Linda Cox, decided it was time to join the Stampin' Up! family!  Yay!  Congratulations, Linda!  I'm so happy to have you on the Too Cool Demo Team!  You're gonna love it!

 

 

Stalking The Stampin' Up! Staff!

Our Convention Program had pictures of all of the Stampin' Up! presenters along with a space for them to autograph.  I took that as a challenge to get signatures of (and pictures with) each and every one of them! 

Well, I wasn't completely successful.  I didn't find everyone.  But, I did track down more than half of them.  That's a pretty good showing, considering they are so busy, right?! 

  

Me & Donna Griffith—Training Event Facilitator

Me & Bonnie Thurber—Demonstrator Training Director

  

Me & Brian Pilling—Manager, Demonstrator Training

Me & Amanda Romualdo—Senior Staff Writer

  

Me & Shannon West—Training Event Facilitator

Me & Holly Linford—Curriculum Developer

  

Me & Ellen Richardson—Senior Curriculum Developer

My favorite >>> Me & Shelli Gardner—CEO & Co-Founder

I always wait in line to talk to Shelli at every Stampin' Up! event I attend.  She is so kind and generous with her time.  Even when there are dozens of demonstrators waiting to see her, when it's your turn, you have her undivided attention and she chats for several minutes.  You can tell that she is passionate about her company and geniunely cares about all of the demonstrators. 

The best part is that her warm and friendly attitude permeates throughout the entire company.  Each staffer I met was the very same way.  As busy as they all were, they were still very approachable, friendly and happy to get their picture taken with me. 

When I found Shelli's daughter, Sara Douglass, she was on her cell phone.  I was waiting near her for her to finish up, but as soon as she saw I was waiting, she ended her call and came over to talk to me and sign my book.  (I forgot to ask for a photo with her...shoot!) 

Several of the staffers were even dancing at the Awards Night After Party, including Shannon West, Brian Pilling, and President & COO Rich Jutkins.

I took a picture of Rich dancing next to me, but he turned too quickly.  I would have snapped another, but I felt like the papparazi.  If only I would have had my Convention program with me to sign!  Who knew I'd see him there?  Next time, I'll be more prepared!

Love What You Do, Share What You Love!

Can you see why I love this company so much?  I could give you dozens and dozens of examples of how they have continued to surprise and delight me, even after 8 years as a demonstrator! 

There is a real sense of family at Stampin' Up! and they don't settle for anything less than top-quality products, services and attitudes.  They love what they do and it shows! 

I LOVE Stampin' Up! and I feel so very grateful and proud to be a part of it and be able to share it with you! 

I love what I do!  Do you?!  Tell me about it!

Angie

Buy 3, Get 1 FREE Designer Series Paper.  Order Online today!

2011 Convention Highlights—Make & Take Cards & Banner!

It wouldn't be a Stampin' Up! Convention if we didn't do some stamping!  Right?!

And, Stampin' Up! gave us all kinds of cool projects to stamp this year!  So many projects, in fact, that Jodi, Darla and I had to get together again last night just to finish them!

Take a look...

  

First, we made this cute 3x3" notecard with the new two-step Raining Flowers stamp set.  The Lace Ribbon Border was punched, scrunched and doubled-up for a unique textured layer.  "Because" sentiment is from It's Your Day stamp set.

    

Next, we made a 3x6" card with the Best Friends Forever stamp set.  This card features more of the Lace Ribbon Border, plus a strip of the new Timeless Portrait Designer Fabric.  Darla helped me tie a perfect Linen Thread bow on my button.

Notice how this card is the same color combination as the first, but it has a completely different look.  All of the Make & Take projects were in the same colors, so you really get a feel for how versatile you can be with the same supplies! 

  

This card was my favorite of the three!  I love the dimension on the Raining Flowers images, and the double layer of ribbon, including the new Island Indigo 3/8" Ruffled Ribbon.  Isn't it terrific!  And, check out the new 1/8" Mini Silver Brads that are holding the ribbon in place.  They are teeny, tiny!  Even smaller than 3/16" size we are used to!  So cute!

Banners are certainly trendy these days, and our Make & Takes had all the makings for this fantastic display!  We used the cards we made for part of the banner, created a fun pinwheel, then added embellishments to pieces from the Perfect Pennants Die for more accents.  Let's look at each piece individually...

  

We used the Timeless Portrait Designer Paper to make the pinwheel, then added crumpled scallop circles from the Perfect Pennants Die.  The flower is punched from the Blossom Petals Punch, and everything is held together with an Antique Brad.

 

We had three sizes of pennants from the Perfect Pennants Die to use on our banner.  Here is the largest of the three, and it is decorated with the Best Friends Forever and It's Your Day stamps.

  

The medium pennant has a Timeless Portrait Designer Fabric flower rosette embellishment, and the smallest pennant has one medallion from the Lace Ribbon Border punch.  See how we just keep using the same supplies for different looks?  Cool, huh? 

We hand-cut the Lucky Limeade mini-banner to fill in one of the spots, and tied both ends with more scraps of fabric.

Can you imagine creating a similar banner for your child's locker or desk to honor their birthday or recognize them for a great achievement?  What about as a garland for your Christmas tree?  Or, to decorate for a birthday party at home or in the office? 

Lots of fun ideas are floating around in my head right now!

Tomorrow, we'll see one more Make & Take featuring a sneak peek from the Holiday Mini!

*  *  *  *  * 

I've had lots of interest in the fabulous $99 Starter Kit Promotion!  Will you be the next one to join my Too Cool Demo Team? Sign up with me and you'll receive a FREE stamp set (up to $25 value) as my exclusive gift to you!

Contact me and we'll chat about it with no obligation!

Angie

 

 

Big Brothers Big Sisters Craft Night!

I'm so excited to be sharing my love of stamping at a Big Brothers Big Sisters craft night event tonight!  I think the Big Sisters and Little Sisters are going to have a blast!  Thanks so much to my stamping friend, Debbie Groulik, for coordinating the festivities!

We'll be doing two projects, including a card similar to the Cupcake Punch Purses Card I posted about in May.  Here are the two versions I created for this event...

  

I have my original card shown to the right and the previous post has all the details.

In addition to creating a vertical card sample, I also took off the Tasteful Trim to simplify the card, and decided to use Cherry Cobbler instead of Riding Hood Red.  I like the bold, crisp richness of Cherry Cobbler with this design much better. 

And, if the girls don't like purses, they can always make cupcakes instead!

You may notice that the Create A Cupcake and You're A Gem stamp sets I've used are not currently available because they were in the Spring Occasions Mini, but they WILL be in the new catalog coming out on July 1!  Woohoo!

Complete Supplies List:

• Stamps—Create A Cupcake (in the new catalog!), You're A Gem (in the new catalog!), Bella Toile (retiring)
• Ink—Cherry Cobbler, Basic Grey Classic Ink.
• Paper—Love Letter DSP (retiring), Cherry Cobbler, Basic Black, Very Vanilla, Basic Grey card stock
• Accessories—Rhinestone Jewels, Basic Grey Taffeta Ribbon (retired)
• Tools—Build A Cupcake Punch, Small 1-3/8 x 5/8" Oval Punch (retiring, and already sold out), Large 1-3/4 x 7/8" Oval Punch, 3/4" Circle Punch, Medium 3/4 x 15/16" Oval Punch (sentiment), Dimensionals, SNAIL

*  *  *  *  * 

Our second project tonight is an Emboss Resist Altered DVD Case Journal.  Everyone will have a choice between making either the blue/brown floral "gratitude" version, or the purple/pink "rock on" monogrammed version.

  

I already posted about the first project, so you can see all the details on how to create it on this post: Floral Embossed DVD Case Gratitude Journal. 

The second version is created the very same way using the same emboss resist technique, different stamp images and an array of purples, including the new Wisteria Wonder!  

I used the retiring Lap of Luxury Designer Paper to cover the notepad top, and a sentiment from Word Play on the inside cover.

Which one do YOU like best?  I'd love to hear your comments below!

Supplies List - Gratitude Journal

• Stamps—Elements of Style, Extreme Elements, Clearly For You (in the new catalog), Favorite Thoughts (retired), Define Your Life (soon to retire!), Very Vintage Jumbo Wheel
• Ink—VersaMark, Crumb Cake or River Rock, Baja Breeze, Not Quite Navy, Soft Suede Classic Ink
• Paper—Whisper White, Not Quite Navy card stock Parisian Breeze DSP (retired)
• Accessories—Baja Breeze Seam Binding, Crumb Cake Seam Binding, Chantilly Crochet Trim, Rhinestone Jewels, junior legal pad (trimmed), Clear Embossing Powder
• Tools—Sponges, Heat Tool, Itty Bitty Punch Pack, Decorative Label Punch, Sticky Strip, Multipurpose Glue (for flowers), SNAIL

Supplies List - Rock On Monogrammed Journal

• Stamps—Extreme Elements, Grunge Rock, Extreme Guitar (retiring), Texture Jumbo Wheel
• Ink—VersaMark, Crumb Cake, Concord Crush, Perfect Plum, Wisteria Wonder, Rich Razzleberry Classic Ink
• Paper—Whisper White, Concord Crush card stock, Lap of Luxury DSP (retiring)
• Accessories—Concord Crush Poly Stitched Ribbon, Rhinestone Jewels, junior legal pad (trimmed), Clear Embossing Powder
• Tools—Sponges, Heat Tool, Decorative Label Punch, Sticky Strip, SNAIL

Wish me luck!  I'll let you know how it goes!

Angie

 

Build A Cupcake Punch Purses

A while back I featured a card created by Michelle Hoover using the Build A Cupcake Punch to create mini purses (see this post).  I just had to try it out for myself!

 

Oh, they are just SO cute!  So cute that I got carried away creating a whole batch of these cards...

Card Details: I used the Bella Toile background stamp with Riding Hood Red Ink on the Riding Hood Red card stock for a subtle background.  I also created some subtle background texture with a large scallop Tasteful Trim border, also in Riding Hood Red card stock, that I texture embossed with the Square Lattice Impressions Folder.  I love the monochromatic background (click to enlarge to see the details better).

Purse Details: The purses are made either by stamping the cupcake bottom from the Create A Cupcake stamp set, then punching with the coordinating punch, or simply punching the shape from the Love Letter Designer Series Paper.  The purse flap is half of a 3/4" Circle Punch.  To create the handle, punch Black card stock with the Small Oval Punch first, then punch over the top with the Large Oval Punch. 

Don't forget, the Cupcake Punch is still available—it's on the Occasions Mini Carryover List! 

Complete Supplies List:

• Stamps—Create A Cupcake (no longer available), You're A Gem (no longer available), Bella Toile
• Ink—Riding Hood Red, Basic Black Classic Ink.
• Paper—Love Letter DSP, Riding Hood Red, Basic Black, Very Vanilla, Basic Grey card stock
• Accessories—Rhinestone Jewels, Basic Grey Taffeta Ribbon (retired)
• Tools—Build A Cupcake Punch, Small 1-3/8 x 5/8" Oval Punch, Large 1-3/4 x 7/8" Oval Punch, 3/4" Circle Punch, Square Lattice Impressions Folder, Tasteful Trim Die, Medium 3/4 x 15/16" Oval Punch (sentiment), Dimensionals, SNAIL

Order the supplies to make this project at my Too Cool Online Store!

Did You Know? 

You Can Still Find Your Favorite Retired Stamp Images!

Stamp sets like Create A Cupcake and You're A Gem that were featured in the Occasions Mini may no longer be available, but you can still find the same images in My Digital Studio!  That's right!  Right now, both stamp sets are not available to order, and we're still waiting to see if they come back in the new 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog.  But, until then, you can find the same images in digital, downloadable images that can be used with your My Digital Studio digital designing software! 

That's one of the many benefits of purchasing this awesome virtual papercrafting tool—you still have access to all kinds of retired Stampin' Up! images, old paper designs, even retired Stampin' Up! colors!  Too Cool!

Find out more about My Digital Studio at www.MyDigitalStudio.net.

My Digital Studio Express

Speaking of My Digital Studio...the Summer Mini features a brand new My Digital Studio option—My Digital Studio Express!  This new, stripped-down version gives you the basic software with only minimal digital content at 50% off the price of the full-version My Digital Studio—only $39.95!

This is awesome!  It allows you to try the software with a smaller investment, and build your customized digital image library as you go. 

Of course, if you decide you'd like to add all of the full digital content that would normally come with the complete version after purchasing the Express version, you can always purchase it later with either the My Digital Studio Express Booster Pack DVD or Downloadable Booster Pack.  The nice part is that you don't have to spend the money on this part right away.  (But, it IS a terrific value compared to purchasing all the content it includes a la carté). 

Want to know more about My Digital Studio or MDS Express?  Contact me today!

Angie

 

Too Cool Demo April Showcase - Part 2

Here are a few more projects shown at my Too Cool Demo meeting in April...

Created by Darla Eigenschink.  Darla showed us how to crimp ribbon by saturating it with cheap, extra-hold hairspray, letting it dry, then crimping.  You could do the same thing with a dry embossing folder.

Featured Supplies: Because I Care Hostess set, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Baja Breeze Seam Binding.

Created by Darla Eigenschink.  I love the simplicity of this card.  It could even work as a masculine card.

Featured Supplies: Fine Flourish, Sincere Salutations, Build-A-Brads.

Created by Kari Heitmann.  I'm loving the Paper Daisies on Kari's card!  She colored the bottom layer, then stamped on a couple layers with En Francais and Elements of Style, then added some Shimmer Paint—gorgeous!  She also added a hat pin with beads for added interest!  Love it!

Featured Supplies: Paper Daisies, En Francais, Elements of Style, Just Believe (sentiment), Framed Tulips Impressions Folder, Nursery Suite DSP, Pearl Jewels, Large Oval Punch, Scallop Oval Punch, Champagne Shimmer Paint, First Edition DSP.

Created by Kari Heitmann.  I'm loving the look of the hat pins that Kari is using on her cards!  This one is tucked behind a little Crumb Cake Seam Binding.  Very nice!

Featured Supplies: Just Believe, Vintage Wallpaper Impressions Folder, Crumb Cake Seam Binding.

Created by Michelle Hoover.  Do you recognize what these cute little purses are made from?  The Cupcake Punch!  I love finding different and unexpected ways to use tools!  Absolutely darling!

Featured Supplies: Build A Cupcake Punch, Small Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, 1/2" Circle Punch, Love Letter DSP, Rhinestone Jewels.

  

Created by Michelle Hoover.  Michelle CASEd this joy fold card from Ann Schach and it is beautiful!  I love all of the sponging detail over the Elegant Lines embossing!

Featured Supplies: Thanks For Caring, Occasional Quotes Hostess set, Vintage Flower Adornments, Baja Breeze Seam Binding, Elegant Lines Impressions Folder.

Thanks for sharing your projects Darla, Kari and Michelle!  These cards are incredible!  Keep 'em coming!

What Do I Do With All This Stuff?

"Are you all moved in yet?!"  That's what everyone keeps asking me, and you don't know how much I wish I could say, "YES!"  But, alas, I'm still working on it!  *sigh*

I spent much of last week getting the remaining items out of my second storage unit (only to create two temporary storage rooms in my new house—ugh!).  Most of it is stuff I've saved from when My Mommy passed away in 2008.  We had similar tastes in home décor items, so I saved many of her little accent tables and decorative pieces in anticipation of using them in a new house someday.   

Three years later, here I am, finally in a new home, and going through all of her stuff—again.  I have to say, it's a bit emotional!  Not as bad as the first time, but still very bittersweet.  I haven't seen this stuff in so long, I get a bit of "Christmas-like" excitement when I discover that a ceramic vase will work perfectly in the living room. But, then there are realizations that I'll have to part with some of her things that aren't going to work, and that is difficult.  It's hard to pass along things of hers, even if it is to someone else who will be able to use it and enjoy it just as much as she once did. 

I also cleaned out the attic from my old place.  Holy moley!  There's even more stuff than I remembered.  More stuff I don't know what to do with!  I mean, how long do I save my Fisher Price school house with the stickers now peeling off? 

  

Or, my very first, very worn Teddy Bear? 

Or, my two boxes of my art and writing projects from elementary school?  Like this one...

All of these little pieces of my childhood that are just growing older and more brittle each year...  Do I really need to keep these things? 

These are the kinds of dilemmas that are slowing up the process.  Not just decisions, very emotional decisions!  I'm in purge-mode, but I don't want to be in regret-mode later on.  Know what I mean?

I know it's a process that I will get through and things will be much better on the other side.  There will be closure in the near future.  There will be organization after all of this chaos.  I'm looking forward to that time, especially if it means I'll be able to stamp more often!

In the meantime, does anyone need a Barbie RV Camper circa 1976?  It comes with folding chairs and sleeping bags...

Until next time,

Angie

 

Easter Bonnet Trinket Holder

Earlier this week, I showed you a cute little altered container that we made at my Stamp Club: Altered Button Container. 

Today, I'm using the same basic concept to create a beautiful Easter Bonnet!

  

I think this is the MOST darling little container!  Perfect for holding some jelly beans or other Easter treats!  It makes me think of the song my grandma always sang to me: ♪ ♫ In my Easter Bonnet, with all the frills upon it, I'll be the grandest lady in the Easter parade! ♪ ♫

Project Details: I used the Scallop Circle Die to cut out the brim of the hat from Pear Pizzazz card stock, then dry embossed it with the Vintage Wallpaper Impressions Folder (seriously, I use this folder for everything, don't I?).  The top of the hat is punched with the 2-1/2" Circle Punch, then embossed with the same texture. 

The striped paper is from the Springtime Vintage DSP.  I cut a 1/2" x 9" strip to go around the base, and a 3/8" x 9 strip to go around the lid.  I lined the inside with coordinating paper by punching a 2-1/2" circle, then triming about a 1/16" all the way around so it would fit inside.  Everything is held together with Sticky Strip.

Along the brim of the hat, I used pulled-scrunchy Baja Breeze Seam Binding adhered with more Sticky Strip.

The back of the hat has three Rosettes that I colored with Pear Pizzazz and Baja Breeze Markers and topped with Pearl Jewels. So lovely!  TIP: Even though the Pearls have sticky on the back, mine were falling off of the rosette centers, so I recommend using Tombow Multipurpose Glue or Crystal Effects to adhere them.

Complete Supplies List:

• Stamps—None
• Ink—None 
• Paper—Springtime Vintage DSP, Pear Pizzazz and Baja Breeze markers, Pear Pizzazz card stock
• Accessories—Trinket Container, Pearl Jewels, Baja Breeze Seam Binding, Rosettes, Vintage Wallpaper Folder
• Tools—Tombow Multipurpose Glue, Scallop Circle Die, 2-1/2" Circle Punch, Sticky Strip, SNAIL

Occasions Mini Carryover Items

Stampin' Up! has just announced which Occasions Mini Catalog items have been carried over (will still be available).  Yay!  Here's the complete list:  Occasions Mini Catalog Carryover Items List - PDF

I'm SO happy that at least some of the Seam Binding is there—Rose Red, Baja Breeze, Pear Pizzazz and Crumb Cake are going to be available.  Wonder why we can't still have Cherry Cobbler, Always Artichoke and Very Vanilla?!  Weird!

I'm happy that Windowpanes are staying!  And, Baja Breeze Glass Glitter (but not the other colors).  And, Red Glimmer Paper!  Woohoo!  And, the Game Spinner Hands (thank goodness, since I haven't had much of a chance to use them).  And, the pretty Trinket Keys and Trinket Crowns!  Yesssss!

I was surprised to see that the popular First Edition DSP made it on the list!  Could this mean that it will still be in the new catalog?!  Hmmm.  And, what about the Springtime Vintage and Sweet Stitches fabrics!  They are still there, too, and I would have expected those to be gone, especially when the DSP that matches them are gone.  Very curious indeed! 

Of course, most of the non-consumable tools have stayed, including the Framed Tulips Folder, Petal Cone and Fun Flowers Dies, and Blossom Petals and Build-A-Cupcake two-step punches!  No surprise there. 

I was sad to see the Rosettes didn't make the list.  They are just so pretty on projects like the one I've shown today!  Get them now, while they are still available! 

As far as stamp sets go, Stampin' Up! doesn't like to tell us which of the Mini Catalog stamp sets may or may not make it real catalog coming out in July.  But, I do know that the Bold Blossom set is in the Summer Mini Catalog.  That is the first time I've seen a stamp set featured in a subsequent Mini.  Obviously, Stampin' Up! likes to mix it up with unprecedented surprises (which is why I still haven't lost hope in getting my Bliss set back!  *wink*)

If your favorite Occasions Mini items didn't make the list, don't it may be gone for good!  Don't miss out!  Make sure that you order online today! 

Hope you're having a great weekend!

Angie

Carmen's Top Note Treat Holders

While I'm away at Leadership, I'm doing some quick posts of Too Cool projects that were shared at my last Stamp Club event.

Today, we'll see three projects that were created by my downline friend, Carmen DeBruce...

  

This is a Top Note Nugget Holder created with the Top Note Die.  I can't resist any kind of treat holder (or the chocolate) and this one is so cute!  You can see the complete instructions at Yvonne Metz's Stampin' Place: Top Note Nugget Holder Tutorial Video.

 

I also can't resist papercrafted purses, so this Top Note Gift Card Holder is simply adorable to me!  Carmen used the Celebrations DSP and Party This Way stamp set to decorate the purse.  The handle can be made easily with the Oval Scallop Frame Die.  The "happy birthday" greeting is from Curly Cute stamp set.

Want to make your own?  See the Top Note Gift Card Holder Tutorial Video at FrenchieStamps.com. 

Finally, Carmen used the Top Note Die to create a snow globe gift bag!  She covered the back and front of a cut-down Mini Lunch Sack (no longer available), and she used a Sweet Treats Cup to make a cute snow globe embellishement!  Love it!  Find out the details on how she made this project at Angie Juda's Chic 'n Scratch blog: Sweet Snowglobe Bag.

I'm simply amazed at how versatile the Top Note Die is!  It's such a fun, yet basic, shape.  Do you own one yet?!  What have you created with your Top Note Die?

Angie

 

My Surprise Convention Gift

I'm finally getting my Convention goodies put away, and I completely forgot to show you what Darla Eigenschink made me as a roommate gift! 

Isn't it the cutest little purse?!  Plus, it was filled with yummy Ghiradelli Raspberry Dark Chocolates!  I'm impressed that it survived a trip across the country and back, and even more surprised that I still have some chocolate left!  I'll have to work on that right away.

She used a tutorial from Becky Roberts at Inking Idaho.  If you've seen her blog, you know that Becky has lots of purse-sonality—purses are her specialty!  You can find the tutorial for this design and many others on the right-hand column of her blog.  Check it out!

Thanks, roomie!  I appreciated the gift!  You rock!

And, while I'm on the topic of awesome demonstrators, I wanted share my moment with Jan Tinklenberg from Stamps, Paper, Scissors (YSLH—yes, she loves herself!).  While I was checking out some of the display boards at Convention, I turned around and found her standing right behind me!  She graciously allowed me to take a photo with her:

I highly recommend her blog...she is awesomely creative and makes some really "GOJUS" cards!

Until next time,

Angie

Round Tab Mini Purses Card & Whining

Can I just whine a moment about how extremely sad I am about the Bride and Bridesmaid Specialty Papers being retired?!  I've only recently discovered how AWESOME these papers are to custom colorize (is that a word?), and now they are about to be gone forever!  WAHHHHH!  *screaming and kicking tantrum*

For a complete list of all Last Chance Retiring Items, see my previous post.

Remember, all of the retired accessories will only be available "while supplies last," so make sure you place your online order for these papers today!  I know I'm stocking up!

OK—I apologize in advance, but I feel another whining moment coming on...

Why, oh, why are so many of my favorite colors of ribbon being retired?!  *stomps feet and pouts*

Well, the good news is that you can expect a whole new array of fun, colorful ribbons to choose from beginning in July.  But, if you like the colors that are leaving, I encourage you to stock up, because many of these colors won't be replaced in the new book. 

Time to suck it up and start embracing the change, Angie.  (You know it's serious when I start talking to myself in third person).  Instead of pouting, let's use this pre-acceptance time to celebrate with a cute new project!  And, what can be cuter than these mini purses...!

  

Play fashion designer by punching some purse shapes in any decorative paper with the Round Tab Punch.  I used Bride Specialty Paper *sniff* that I sponged with Rose Red, Ballet Blue and Lovely Lilac ink.  Add a coordinating 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon handle in Rose Red (going), Night of Navy, and Elegant Eggplant (also going).  Decorate with more ribbon, Silver Brads, or even an Itty Bitty flower punch accent.  Too Cute!

Other Card Details: Lovely Lilac card base stamped with Bella Toile background stamp in Lovely Lilac ink.  Layers of Elegant Eggplant, Brushed Silver and Night of Navy card stock.  Scallop Trim Border Punch  and more Rose Red ribbon.  *double sniff*

Don't worry...I'll be alright...

I just placed my retired accessories order, so I'll be set for awhile!  Whew!  :-)

Don't wait—order your favorites before they are gone! 

Angie

 

Purse Gift Bag, Gift Card & Nugget Holder

 

Still working from the archives...Here's a set of purses that we did last year in my Stamp Club. 

Purse #1 – Gift Bag

You can find the tutorial for the gift bag purse in the Purse Collection (the second style shown).  I used a faux alligator leather technique for the Certainly Celery purse flap and Photo Corner Punch details.  Just dry emboss a texture onto card stock using the Big Shot Texturz Plates or Impressions Folders  Then, cover the texture with VersaMark and emboss with Clear Embossing Powder.  

Purse #2 – Gift Card Holder

There is a nice video tutorial for this project – Gift Card Holder Purse. The butterfly is from the Dreams Du Jour stamp set.  Colors are Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss (retired), Old Olive.

Purse #3 – Mini Nugget Holder Purse

So cute!  See the video tutorial for the Mini Nugget Holder Purse.  Punches are from Boho Blossoms.

Angie 

Elements of Style Purse & Card Gift Set

Today is the finale to my four-part series on the special Mother's Day present I created for my MIL, Nancy.  I created six cards (two each of three card designs), and you can see the details of each of those cards in my previous posts: Embossed Vine, Shimmery Hummingbird and Embossed Stencil.

All of the cards fit nicely in a cute little stationery kit in the shape of a purse.  I love to create purses!  (Funny, that I only have one real-life purse that I've been carrying for four years!)  So, without any further adieu...

  

Here is the front and the back of the purse.  And, can you believe that I did not even CASE this one?!  I used some basic techniques I had picked up in a Tote-Ally Awesome Tote tutorial by Becky Roberts at Inking in Idaho, but I started from scratch.  So not like me, I know!

   

The inside of the purse holds three cards and envelopes on each side, and a decorated pen.  Plus, the little pocket on the back of the purse holds postage for the six cards!  

I had SO much fun making this set, and I'll admit it, I had a little trouble parting with it!  There's something about a little organized set of cards (or anything that's organized, really) that makes me happy, happy, happy! 

Basic Purse Cover How-Tos

I used the Bella Bleu Designer Series Paper throughout the entire purse, and I used the chipboard backing in the package to create a more durable purse cover. 

• Cut 2 chipboard pieces that are 5-1/2 x 7".  To create the taper, I cut a diagonal line from the bottom 7" corner, in 1/2" to the 6-1/2" mark on the top.  Do the same 1/2" diagonal cut on the opposite side. (click to enlarge the diagram)

• Cover each side of the chipboard with DSP.  I used A LOT of SNAIL to adhere it, but I would highly recommend using a spray adhesive to avoid buckling in the paper when you emboss it.  I added adhesive to the cut chipboard, then laid it on the paper and trimmed it.  If you cut the paper out first, you run the risk of it not covering the chipboard properly.

• Once all sides are covered, you can use a Sanding Block on the edges to get rid of the excess paper.

I used a Sahara Sand Marker to color the white edges of my chipboard and sponged all edges of the paper with Sahara Sand ink.  Then, I used the Mostly Vintage Stencils with VersaMark to clear emboss the designs on the front, and sponged the whole thing with Sahara Sand.

Handles, Accents & Latch How-Tos

• Cut four pieces of 1 x 1-1/4" card stock for the handle accents (I used the retiring Bordering Blue).  Trim the bottom corners of each with the Ticket Corner Punch, then adhere on the outsides of the purse cover, about 1/2" in from each edge.
• Cut two 12" pieces of 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon.  For a nice, unraveled edge, fold up each end of the ribbon about an inch and adhere it with SNAIL (fold in on the same side of the ribbon).  Add more SNAIL to the folded edge and adhere each end to the insides of your cover, so they look centered against the accents.  You could have the ribbons attach to the outside of your purse, for a different look. 
• Use the Crop-A-Dile (it really is the only punch that will go through chipboard and ribbon) to punch a 1/4" hole for the eyelet in each accent.  Be sure that your hole is centered over your accents, and that it catches the ribbon correctly to secure it.  You may need to re-adjust your ribbon to make this line up properly. 
• Attach an Antique Brass Jumbo Eyelet to each punched hole.
• Cut another piece of card stock for the latch: 2" wide and 4" long.  Score the 4" side at 1-1/2" and 2-1/2".  Use the Ticket Corner Punch on the end corners.  Decorate your latch with paper or stamping.
• Add a Chocolate Chip Corduroy Button, or something similar, to the latch.  You want to use something that goes through the card stock, like a brad of some sort (you don't want it coming off, do you?).  The button I chose did not have prongs, so I punched holes with my Paper Piercer and tied it on with Natural Hemp Twine.
• Adhere the back panel of the latch onto the back cover of the purse.  Use Sticky Strip for a secure hold.
• Use a Velcro Dot or a 1/2" Velcro Strip for the closure.  They will line up correctly if you keep the Velcro together, attach one side to the latch.  Then, peel off the paper liner of the other side of the Velcro, and close the latch to adhere the other side. 

  Postage Pocket How-Tos

• Cut a piece of 6 x 4" card stock.  Score at along the 6" side at 2" and 2-1/2".
• Cut a notch out of the end of the 2" panel with the Large Oval Punch.  This will allow you to pull out the postage easily.
• Ticket Corner Punch the corners of the flap.  
• Adhere the outside edges of the 2" panel with Sticky Strip.
• Decorate as desired. I used more Corduroy Buttons and Bella Bleu paper (I covered my brad prongs on the underside, so they don't show). 
• Attach to the purse back with Stick Strip.
• Add Velcro to each side of the notch for the closure.

 
Inside Pockets How-Tos

• Cut a piece of 8 x 3-1/2" piece of card stock. 
• Along the 8" side, score at 1/2", 1", 7" and 7/12".
• Along the 3-1/2" side, score at 1/2" and 1". (see dotted lines on diagram)
• Cut off the outside three squares on the corners as shown in the diagram. Then along the 3-1/2" sides, make a cut along the 1" score line up to where it intersects the other 1" score line.  This makes a little flap on each side. 
  
• Decorate your pocket with paper or stamping.
• Fold at all score lines and adhere the corners with SNAIL to create the pockets.  The inside of the pocket should look like the next diagram.
• Add Sticky Strip to each of the edges BUT DON'T ADHERE IT TO THE COVER YET.
• Cut another piece of card stock: 1x6" and score along 1" side at the 1/2" mark.  This will be the connector piece that brings the two sides together. 
• Cover the outside panels of the "V" fold with Sticky Strip, without putting tape right on the fold (you want it to move).  Attach the bottom of the pockets to this hinge (pockets should be front-to-front...the insides of your pockets, shown in the diagram, should be facing outward...you'll be attaching these to the sides).
• Attach one pocket to the inside cover, centering it along the bottom and keeping it flush with the bottom of the purse.  Attach the other pocket to the other inside cover.

Decorative Pen

You're almost done now, but don't forget to add the decorated RSVP pen.  I know you can find these at Office Depot and Wal-Mart, but they are probably also at Target, Meijer and Staples.  Just make sure it is the RSVP brand.

•   Cut a 1 x 3-1/4" piece of Designer Series Paper. 

• Unscrew the end of the pen and pull out the ink barrel. 
• Add Sticky Strip along the long side of the paper, then attach along the barrel right below the end piece. 
• Roll the paper around the barrel tightly, then insert into the pen and screw it back together.  

To attach the pen to the purse...

• Cut three strips of the grosgrain ribbon, adhere them end-against-end with Sticky Strip.  Make sure you wrap the ribbon around the pen as you adhere, and that you have enough room for the width of the cap to pass through. 
• Attach them along the inside top of either side of the purse with Sticky Strip.

I hope you enjoyed this fun set!  Looking at it now, I probably should have added a pretty flower to the front—that would have made it looked more finished.  But, I think that Nancy really liked it, especially the pretty cards! 

Angie

Scallop Circle Pansy Purse & Mini Note Cards

I couldn't wait to use the beautiful little pansies that I made, so I thought they'd look awesome on a little Scallop Circle Purse that I've been wanting to make.  You can see how I made the pansies out of the Butterfly Punch and Re-Inkers in my previous post.

I got the idea from fellow demonstrator Becky Roberts' Inking In Idaho blog. This is a photo of her project, decorated with a Scallop Circle scrunched paper flower, Sweet Pea Felt and covered with a cool faux alligator technique (she provides the how-tos for the technique on her blog).

She called the purse a gift bag, and it would be fantastic as a mini gift bag for small items or a gift certificate.  I wanted to use more of my pansies, so I decided to fill the purse with matching mini cards that the recipient could send out later, or attach to gifts (or give when she re-gifted the purse—but who would want to do that, right?!)

This is what I came up with—isn't it a darling little set!?  I can't wait to share it with my Stamp Club in May!  I especially love how the So Saffron and More Mustard colors really showcase the Elegant Eggplant pansies! 

And, do you like the new embossed texture I used?  It's a sneak peak of the new Square Lattice Textured Impressions Folder coming up in the Summer Mini beginning May 1!  Check out the close-ups, so you can really see the details.

  

Scallop Circle Purse How-To

• You start by making the base of the purse with the Box #2 Bigz XL Die.  Cut off the flaps on the top of the box, fold on the score lines, then adhere it together with Sticky Strip.
• Use the Scallop Circle Bigz Die to create your two side pieces.  You can either place your card stock on the die so that you don't cut the full circle, or you can trim off the bottom later (so you have a flat edge for the bottom of your purse).
• Hold your two side pieces together, then punch a Large Scallop Oval out of both for the handle.  TIP: It's important to do this before adding the texture, or you'll have trouble getting both pieces in the punch at one time.
• Run each side through the Big Shot again with your choice of Textured Impressions Folders. 
• Use Sticky Strip to attach the sides to the box.
• Decorate the box!

I used So Saffron for the box and sides, and decorated with More Mustard card stock and grosgrain ribbon.  I used the Jewelry Tag Punch with the coordinating Tiny Tags stamp set for the greetings.

Mini Note Card & Envelopes Details

The cards are 3x3", so they do not fit perfectly in the box (that's why I added the tissue paper!).  The cards do fit perfectly inside the Mini Whisper White Envelopes.  I stamped these with images from the Simple Friendship and Wings of Friendship Hostess sets and colored the flower with Watercolor Crayons and a Blender Pen.

I really want to try out the rest of my pansies soon, but before that, I want to show you some of the Too Cool cards I created for my nieces' birthdays (it's a triple birthday party!).  Unfortunately, I didn't make two cards this time (one to keep, one to share), but I did take pictures and I can't wait to show them to you, beginning tomorrow...

Angie