...just a little something....

Favorite Photos Mini Album

2013-05-16T09:00:00.000-04:00

You all probably think I've gone away and forgotten entirely how to stamp! Some days I feel like that's the case, but I've been actually been really busy behind the scenes with a few projects.

I'm excited to share a mini album that I made for a recent class featuring the Mini Album Bracket STAX. This nesting die set is fabulous for mini book building and I have a fun project to share. This little book is just LOADED with lots of My Favorite Things Stamps and Die-namics.

The cover includes the beautiful, and really luscious Poppy Builder Die-namics paired with a Leaf Filled Flourish. At a recent MFT new release party, we were asked if we could choose only one flourish which one would it be, and it's this one. Not too fancy, a really nice sized element. I love the embossing on the leaves.... Th sentiment "Favorite Photos To Remember" is plucked from Expand Your View. If you don't already own Typewriter Alphabet, go ahead and grab it, it is perfect for personalization!

On the inner cover, I gave the chalboard technique a little try, pairing stamps from Off the Chart, and Captured Memories and Right This Way.

Now here's a fun little idea I have for you... you can use the smaller sizes of the Mini Album Bracket STAX to make a mini-er album within your mini album.

I cut the second largest size from Steel Grey Cardstock.... The Keys and Locks Die-namics hang like little charms over the top of my photo.

This tiny little spread sits inside the "inner mini." The stamped elements are from Captured Memories - a really amazingly fun stamp set. And Cute Cameras, goodness, I just love those babies!

My final spread features the grid background from Graph Paper Notes, stamps from Off the Chart and then the Pie Chart Die-namics.

I'll bore you with this photo one more time, it doesn't get old around here! The "love this" is stamped to an Accent It: Labels and Tabs Die-namics.

The mini book is held together with a Vintage "o" ring. Pretty handy little clips, I can easily open back up the ring and add a few pages when I have a little more time to scrap.

Release Rewind

2013-05-14T00:00:00.000-04:00

I'm back with a quick card made using the Life's Directions stamp set from the recent release over at My Favorite Things. Several of us are participating in a little Release Rewind group posting, be sure to check the MFT Blog to find out who's playing along tonight!

If you happened to miss out on Teaser Time last week, be sure to head over to visit all that's new. There were just a TON of new stamps, Die-namics and a beautiful new color released too. Everything is in the BRAND SPANKIN NEW Category and oh my goodness - lots of goodies!

I've been trying to go a little cleaner and simpler with my cards, and I love the fresh feel of this white cardbase, white woodgrain patterned paper. Feeling pretty farm fresh. I've added just a bit of patterned paper with my Mix and Match Banners topped with a Steel Grey Button and a little Hemp Cord.

By the way, have you checked out the MFT Premium Dye ink yet? It's lovely, really lovely. Just look at this RICH coverage on the sentiment and what's incredible is that it dries incredibly fast. No smudging. ---> love that <----

You might have noticed that I will often tuck the bow on my buttons just behind the button, here's a tip, it helps keep the bow tied!

I'm so excited, I'm headed to MFT Headquarters later this week for a little weekend retreat. YEAH!!! I've got a lot of paper trimming and packing to do before I head out, so I'd better jet!!

MFT New Release is HERE!

2013-05-07T22:00:00.000-04:00

Oh hooray it's time for the New Release at My Favorite Things - there are so many fun new things in this month's release!

I hope you'll head on over to the BRAND SPANKIN NEW COLLECTION and take a peek!

Tonight I'm here to share the new Notepad Die-namics with you. I have been loving the Laina Lamb Designs line at MFT for my new found love of getting scrappy, but these elements are simply amazing for cardmaking too. I have a few cards to share with you using this fun new Die-namics. Since we have a boatload of fun new stamps, I've mixed and matched it a few different ways.

Up first, cmbining a few fun trends I'm using the new Chalkboard Greetings stamp set with this adorable navy and mint patterned paper. Chalkboard Greetings is this month's Triple Scoop - that means that you can earn it for FREE with a qualifying purchase of $60 or more! Yeah, who doesn't love a free gift?!

I stamped the sentiment with Versamark and embossed with a detail white embossing powder for this fresh feel. Two Fishtail Flags STAX peek out from the bottom... yes, I'm obsessed with the Fishtail Flags!

Up next, I created a little pick me up with the Cheerful Blessings Stamp Set. <----- I really adore this set! I thought this would be a sweet pick me up for one of my boys tucked into their lunchboxes. The sentiment was stamped onto a Heart STAX Die-namics. A small die-cut element from Accent It: Labels and Tabs peeks out from just below the main panel.

Did you see the super adorable Happy Hellos Die-namics? What a fun assortment of cheerful greetings. In particular, I adore this scripty "hello." Oh look, there I go again with the Fishtail Flags. Have you picked them up yet? Trust me, you'll love them.... A little Pink Lemonade Button and a bit of Hemp Cord sit atop a corrugated cardboard Heart STAX.

Feathers, what a fun and super hot trend, and this die set is a bunch of fun to play with! The Feathers and Arrows Die-namics were cut from Steel Grey card stock and then spritzed with my silver paint.

I've selected another of the uplifting greetings from Chalkboard Greetings. If you haven't seen the full set graphics on this, be sure to check out THIS post on the MFT Blog! With a series of upcoming tests, I'm sure this card will find it's way into my older son's backpack in the next few weeks.

Thanks for joining me tonight for a closer look at the Notepad Die-namics!

The MFT Design Team is all on board tonight to showcase the full new release package. You'll find a list of all the participating designers HERE on the MFT Blog. Be sure to check out all the New Release goodies HERE in the Brand Spankin' New section.

Blueprints 3 & Cheerful Blessings

2013-05-06T00:00:00.000-04:00

I'm back with another My Favorite Things Teaser today! We're plugging along towards our new release tomorrow night at 10pm EST. Remember to check in on the MFT Blog for details about the Teaser Time prizes, and for links to all of today's participating designers.

If you're not familiar with Blueprints, you need to take a closer look. Each Blueprints set is a die collection that works together to take all the work out of layout planning, paired with a PDF that outlines four ways to combine them for an effortless cardmaking session! Just pair with your desired stamps, card stock and patterned paper. It's a great jumpstart for your crafty session!

Today I've paired Blueprints 3 with one of this month's sketches and the adorable Cheerful Blessings stamp set which was designed by Lisa Johnson for My Favorite Things. You'll find the die graphics for this month's Blueprints collection over on the MFT Blog, this one is particularly fun - it includes 13 Die-namics!!

I love that Blueprints gives you such a creative jump-start, but I also adore the piercing that is designed into some elements! You'll find a delicate pierced edge all around the edge of the circle, as well as on the thin strip that I've layered across the bottom of my card....

I dug into a new paper pack from Pink Paislee and grabbed two of my Naturals Buttons. I've just restocked on my Kraft card stock, and that makes me a happy, happy girl. The scalloped border was cut from Whip Cream card stock.

Remember that you can find a full list of the MFT Designers with samples to share today on the MFT Blog. You'll want to find out all the details on this month's Teaser Time Prizes and of course, you'll want to see the die graphics, and the fun four sketches that go with this die set.

All the latest stamps and Die-namics will be available as part of our May 2013 release Tuesday night at 10pm EST! Be sure to join us on the New Release party thread HERE from 8-10pm!

Cheerful Blessings

2013-05-05T00:00:00.000-04:00

Today I'm here to share a sample from the new, and every so sweet Cheerful Blessings stamp set from Lisa Johnson Designs. This uplifting set features a fun mix of fonts. I paired it with the Layered Rose Die-namics.

The sentiment sits on top of the Traditional Tags STAX, one of my most go-to die sets. I've embellished with the Fishtail Flags STAX and Fishtail Flags Layers STAX, if you read here a lot, you know I use those babies regularly.

I've selected the MFT Hot Fudge ink for my sentiment. It's such a warm, rich color. My flower embellishment was created with the Layered Rose Die-namics paired with the Royal Leaves. A fluffy seam binding bow sits on top of the tag...

You can see the full stamp set graphics on the MFT Blog, you'll also be directed to other designers participating in Teaser Time today and you'll be able to find all the details on how YOU can win a Teaser Time Prize.

My Favorite Things - Life's Directions

2013-05-03T00:00:00.000-04:00

I'm back with another My Favorite Things teaser for you today! I hope that you've been over to the MFT Blog every day for information about Teaser Time Prizes (who couldn't use a little extra spending money for this great release?) and for full set and die graphics.

Today I'm here to share a card made with the new Life's Directions stamp set, paired with a few elements from Blueprints 3 and the fabulous new Chicken Wire Die-namics.

I've wanted a Die-namics that would cut a full card front and I'm beyond excited that we now have it! I cut the Chicken Wire twice, once from Kraft and once from Steel Grey. You might notice that they're very slightly offset for a shadowed effect. They sit on top of a piece of Whip Cream Cardstock which has had it's edges distressed and rolled.

I adore the pierced panel on the new Blueprints 3! As you see it fits just perfectly inside the arched element also included in this die set. I reached for my Circle STAX to create a little matting for the center panel.

The sentiment "Under the Weather" for me reminds me of chicken soup, and for that, the rooster was just perfect. (I might also have roosters on the mind after my new rooster coffee mugs..... convenient timing!)

The bottom panel was stamped with Versamark using the Distressed Backround Blocks. Stamping the background in a watermark fashion doesn't detract from the overall design of the card, but gives a light texture to the bottom panel.

I've finished the design off with just a bit of Hemp Cord and two Wild Cherry buttons.

Don't forget to head over to the MFT Blog for all the set graphics for both Life's Directions & Distressed Background Blocks. You'll also get a closer look at the Chicken Wire Die-namics too!

Peaceful Wildflowers from My Favorite Things

2013-05-01T00:00:00.000-04:00

Welcome back! It is time for teasers to begin for My Favorite Things! Be sure to stop by the My Favorite Things BLOG for details about Teaser Time prizes as well as links to all the participating designers. The new release is scheduled for Tuesday, May 7th at 10pm EST.

Today I have a soft and sweet card to share using the new Lisa Johnson Designs: Peaceful Wildflowers Stamp Set and the coordinating Lisa Johnson Designs: Wildflowers Die-namics.

Using the Rounded Banner STAX, I diecut a frame into my Kraft card stock. Using my Factory Green ink, I repeatedly stamped the background to a piece of Whip Cream card stock. Using the Wildflowers Die-namics I cut three sets of petals and leaves. I inked the top with Factory Green ink and the tops with Pink Lemonade Ink. PS, this selective inking is easily achieved if you use just the corner of the ink pad.

I added a small strip of Factory Green cardstock and stamped the sentiment onto a Designer Labels 3 STAX jut a big of zig-zag stitching holds the accent in place.

To add softness to the card, all the edges of my main panel were softly inked with a white ink. This is a beautifully designed stamp set and I'm really looking forward to working with it again! I hope you'll come back to visit with me later to see what other amazing stamps and Die-namics are included in this month's release.

Don't forget Tto head on over to the MFT Blog to see the full set graphics, find out how to win a Teaser Time Prize, and for links to all the other participating designers today!

One Heart.

2013-04-19T14:18:00.003-04:00

This week has been just unreal. I'll admit to being a complete and total sloth today, I had a bunch of things to do this morning, and I'm unable to think or keep focused.... I'm completely tuned into the news, as I move from room to room, I'm switching on televisions, turning on the radio and listening in.

I know I mentioned the One Fund to you the other day, and last night I ran across this site One Heart Boston. All proceeds will go to support the One Fund, so it's a win-win. I have a One Heart t-shirt on it's way to me, which I will wear with pride for the city I love.

I'm so ready for it to be next week. I look forward to being able to get in my studio and do something crafty. My heart just isn't in it yet. Hopefully soon.....

Under the Weather?

2013-04-18T12:56:00.000-04:00

Good morning everyone! It's been ages since I've been able to sit down and stamp just for fun. But last night, I made a cup of coffee and headed down to my little studio to make a card. My kids are home on break this week, so my late night stamping is really the only quiet time I'll get this week.

I can't even tell you the last time I put a big fluffy bow on a card, but I simply adore this Kraft Ribbon. If bow tying is tricky for you, here's a link to a little video a year or so ago showing how to tie a big fluffy bow, you can find it here. The MFT Ribbon ties like a dream, I love love love it!

This new Pure Innocence image: Under the Weather is just perfect for some paper piecing. I dug through a new stash of 6x6 patterned papers and selected Simple Stories Vintage Bliss and picked an assortment of patterns for the coverlet, bed sheet and her pj's.

It's been a long time since I pieced a more detailed image like this, and let me say, that it is still one of my favorite stamping techniques.

I've got to head on over and pick up some more Kraft card stock from MFT, my supply is dwindling and that's when panic starts to set in!

Have a GREAT day!

Boston, You're My Home.

2013-04-17T08:39:00.004-04:00

You may or may not know, but I'm from Boston. I've lived here all my life and I just can't wrap my mind around Monday's tragedy. I worked in two of the high rises in Boston's beautiful Back Bay, I walked those streets every day! I met and married my husband there and had my first apartment right on Dartmouth Street. I enjoyed my lunch hour at Copley Square with friends and I even waited to see my husband cross the finish line of the historic Boston Marathon from that very spot where the attacks took place. It's sickening, terrible and so very sad.

(photo credit)

The medical expenses for the victims will be staggering. They have such a tough road ahead of them.... I'm writing today to ask you to consider supporting The One Fund. You can read more about this 501(c)(3) charity which has been established to help the victims.

I'm proud to see my former employers at Hill, Holiday on the list of corporations that stepped up right away to help. This city has a huge spirit, and a huge heart.

Release Rewind - April

2013-04-16T00:00:00.000-04:00

There were so many amazing products included in the My Favorite Things April Release that I didn't really get to play with it all yet. So, today I'm excited to be posing as part of the MFT Release Rewind.

You'll find a list of all the designers participating on the MFT Blog. All the projects shared today have been made with the recently released MFT goodies! I've placed links all at the bottom of the post versus a million links throughout the post.

Up first, is a bit of retro fun with the Accent It - Reel Life Die-namics and the Expand Your View stamp set. The sentiment is nestled onto one of the Lead the Way Die-namics.

I've been scrambling to keep up with all the photos I've been taking, and I ran across these fun photos from the end of school last year. The Laina Lamb Design stamps and Die-namics are a perfect fit for these fun 4 x12 photo pages I found. Each is holds a 4x4 photo or layout.

These photos are from the last day of school last year, I can't believe how quickly the last day of school for THIS year will soon be here. It's funny to see these photos because the boys have grown SO much in the last year. ....sigh....

Up first is my beloved new Story Titles Die-namics. I cut it from cork paper, but it would just rock with cork sheets too.

I didn't want to cover up any of this sweet photo, so I opted to tuck a File Tab Die-namic sticking out of the top of the pocket, and embellished over the outside of the photo pocket with an Electric Red button. The "FAVORITE" is from Expand Your View.

The last pocket is used for a journaling card. I added the Mini Film Strip Die-namics, a Star STAX and then an assortment of sentiments from the Expand Your View stamp set. I'll save you my messy handwriting and journal later. Every day is an adventure, especially when you have TWENTY five six and seven year olds. Bless that woman.

This next set of three photos is on the backside of the pocket. The Reel Life Die-namics is a simply perfect fit! I love the retro feel of this die, so fun!

Reel Life -what a fun die, and as a Mom of boys, I can use about million occasions. For a quick finish I cut a Steel Grey Circle STAX and fit it behind. Easy peasy. Customization is a breeze with the Expand Your View stamp set.

Story Titles - oh goodness, have I convinced you yet that you must have this? I'll just use it on everything till you say yes! This little square is for my son's amazing Third Grade teacher, he really loved his year with her, and I've got my fingers crossed that my younger son will have her next year!

The last pocket is again my journaling square The Story Starters Die-namics has a fun, super on trend knocked out type. I've stitched each of the edges in place.

Okay, so that's my little scrappy effort for the day. Little by little, I'll catch up with this!

Oh my goodness, Teacher Appreciation day is rapidly approaching, and I'll admit, I have a lot to do. I usually need to avert eyes when I'm headed into school this time of year, or else I end up with a creative assignment for all the teachers. I'll be adding these sweet personalized tags to gifts for my boys two teachers and two classroom aides. The Typewriter Alphabet is great for adding your personalization to just about anything!

I used my Traditional Tags as a base, and then cut my Red Delicious Die-namics from Jellybean Green and Electric Red card stocks. It is finished with a Factory Green button, a bit of twine and bit of Kraft grosgrain. The sentiment "You're Sweet" is from the Chocolate Sentiments stamp set which is this month's Triple Scoop stamp set.

Here are the links to the products I've used tonight. Remember you'll find everything available NOW in the MFT Boutique

Electric Red Cardstock

Jellybean Green

InLinkz.com

Bye Bye Google Reader - Part Two

2013-04-08T14:17:00.004-04:00

A few weeks ago, I shared with you that Google Reader will be closed as of July 1st. GASP!

But, that's okay because there are options. Today I've set up Bloglovin' for a little trial run.
The transition is very easy, because you can just log in with Facebook.

You can also import your existing subscriptions from Google Reader (but remember, you'd have to set that up before Google Reader closes on July 1st.)

It did take a little bit to have all my feeds imported, but I just went and made a cup of coffee. Yum!

For me, the experience is very similar to Google Reader, so if you really, really love Google Reader, then Bloglovin' may be for you.

I also just installed the Free App on my phone so now I'll be ready with a little blog reading while I pass some time in the car pickup line:

If you decide you like the reader, I hope you'll remember to follow my blog with Bloglovin!

Cupcake Cutie - My Favorite Things New Product Tour

2013-04-08T00:00:00.000-04:00

Tonight I have a few cards to share with you in preparation for the upcoming release at My Favorite Things. I've got a few ideas to share with the fun new character from Wendy Burns titled Cupcake Cutie. Be sure to check the My Favorite Things Blog for a full list of designer participating in tonight's New Product Tour!

Remember, the new products will be available

on April 9th at 10 PM in the MFT Boutique.

For my first card, I stamped the Cupcake Cutie to watercolor paper and embossed. Then I reached for my Holtz Distress Markers and my water brush. The larger scale of this image is just perfect for the technique. I added a bit of glitter to the trim on her dress. Oh, how I love water coloring.... I lightly dusted her cheeks with chalks when I was done watercoloring.

This sweet stamp set also offers this adorable cupcake stand. Using the masking technique, I was able to tuck the cupcake stand just behind the image of the little girl. I used Inge's MFT Academy Tutorial for a some pencil coloring on Kraft card stock. I've only done a little bit of embellishment on the card front with a lone Fishtail Flags STAX, one Sno Cone Button and a bit of hemp cord.

Using a ruler and a pen, I drew in a little floor for her to stand on.

Since I'd water colored and used my pencils, well my makers were feeling a little unloved.... I used some of the hair coloring tips I'd learned from Michele's MFT Academy Post on hair coloring and got to work. I tucked in a sentiment from the Birthday Sentiments stamp set, also being released tonight onto the Mini Tabs Foursome and added a Sno Cone Button tied with a bit of hemp cord. The Bracket Edge Duo Die-namics gives just a little graceful detail along the bottom of the card.

Check it out, the cupcake stand itself is perfectly adorable for a little girly gift tag. The Beautiful Bows Die-namics are just beyond sweetness when they're cut from felt. Today I've used Whip Cream felt and a snippet of Kraft Grosgrain Ribbon. I plucked this sentiment from More Essential Sentiments. If you haven't already picked up the Traditional Tags STAX, honestly, it's a must have....

The background was stamped with Versamark using the Darling Dots stamp set.

Since I already had all the tag elements out on my desk, I decided to use just the cute little dog image from this stamp set for one more tag, this time, it's a teeny one. And, since I just happened to still have my pencils ready, I gave Inge's pencil technique another spin. This sentiment is part of the new Birthday Sentiments stamp set included in this month's release.

Okay friends, phew, that's IT! Lots of ways to use the Cupcake Cutie, I hope you'll check her out as part of this month's new release. Here are the links to the products I've used today, the Cucpake Cutie link will work as of Tuesday at 10pm EST.

Wendy Burns: Cupcake Cutie

My Favorite Things - Teaser Time

2013-04-06T00:00:00.000-04:00

I'm really excited to share a project I've been working on for this month's My Favorite Things new release. Teaser time has changed around a bit since last month, and I must say, I'm loving the new style. We're on our second day of teasers in preparation for our April New Release. The new products will be available on April 9th at 10 PM in the MFT Boutique!

You'll want to hop on over to the MFT Blog for the full scoop - because there are some really AMAZING prizes to be had. You will NOT want to miss out on your chance to win.

I have two projects to share today and I've got a really long post to share. I hope you're okay to visit for a little bit!

My Favorite Things will be releasing a STAX album designed especially for mini albums. I've been enjoying making minis lately, so this was just PERFECT for me to get a little scrappy.

For today's project, I'm using the largest of four dies to cut my pages. I've cut all the page bases from MFT's Kraft card stock. You'll see that this die features a straight edge on the left for binding, and then this beautiful bracket edge along the right hand side. I opted to bind this little mini-book using an eyelet setter and a bit of hemp cord.

Take a look at the Story Titles Die-namics. This is a set of three dies that will each cut out one word. I seriously love these. Honestly. LOVE. I cut "memories" from Hot Fudge card stock, and then layered with a cluster of three assembled Layered Roses. Tiny felt leaves were cut using Sour Apple Felt and the Royal Leaves Die-namics. Since my Fishtail Flags are never far from my fingertips, I cut two from scraps and tucked them on the cover too.

You can fit up to a 4x4 sized photo on the largest Mini Album Bracket STAX. This is a photo from a trip that my husband and I took to San Francisco about two years ago. I highly recommend that trip by the way. And by that trip, I mean any trip that you can take anywhere whenever your parents will watch your sweet children and you can escape just the two of you. ----> thanks Mom and Dad!! <-----

I'm using the new Bottom Line Alphabet cut from Steel Grey Felt, paired with a little Traditional Tags STAX. I stamped "Trip of a Lifetime" using the new Document It - Expand Your View. A small key and lock were cut using, you guessed it, Keys and Locks Die-namics.

I've scrapped this next photo before, but it just doesn't get old. This is my younger son last summer when he first rode off on the bike with no training wheels. Both my husband and my son were over the moon. It was a HUGE moment!

To celebrate that momentous occasion, I did a little scene building with the new Bicycle Die-namics. The Snow Drifts Die-namics also works equally well to cut little rolling hills from the gorgeous new Factory Green card stock.

See, you can use these Story Titles to mat your entire photo. The die will cut the word onto the top edge of any length of paper. I love these totally on-trend dies, and I'm loving the way it can cut out a whole panel like this. I love this look!

I had the Vertical Gift Card Pocket on my desk from a recent project, and discovered it's perfect for adding little journaling tags in your minis. I stitched on one of the Story Starters Die-namics and added a Keys and Locks to the front of my pocket. One of the smaller Traditional Tags STAX fits perfectly in the pocket.

Another fun sentiment from Document It - Expand Your View is included on the tag, and I knocked out a heart with the Heart STAX.

I'm really loving this fun avocado type color of Factory Green - here's the coordinating button and ink too! Is it wrong that I love color coordination like this? It speaks to the hoarder, oops, I mean collector in me.

There are so many fun sentiments in Laina's new set, Expand Your View, that I tucked just one more in onto a File Tab and added a small red Heart STAX.

As I mentioned up top, I used eyelets to reinforce the holes for my binding to provide some added durability. Then I laced some hemp cord through. My only word of advice is to leave some slack in the hemp cord, because if you tie it too tightly you won't be able to turn the pages!

I had so much fun working on this little mini book that I was excited to keep going with this fun new photo I took of my littles on Easter. This Story Titles Die-namics is so fun. This time, I laid it over the top of my picture, cut from Steel Grey card stock.

I grabbed "Enjoy the" from Laina's Document It - Expand Your View stamp set, and stamped it to a Mini Tabs Foursome. The new Open Simply Scallops Trio offers an open scalloped border in three sizes. It layers over the three previously released sizes of Simply Scallops. I'm using the largest one in the set which pairs with the Large Simply Scallops. PS. The Die-namics will cut a six inch strip, so that's five half circles, the join to add the sixth is hidden under that twine tied button.

Ordinarily I wouldn't use floral paper for a boys scrapbook paper, but hey, it's EASTER! And after the winter we've had up here in Boston, let me just say, I'm so, so excited about spring. Bring on the flowers!

Here's the links to the products I've used today! Note that the links to the NEW products will work when they go live on Tuesday, April 9th at 10pm EST.

Fishtail Flags Layers

Circle STAX

Keys and Locks Die-namics

Vertical Gift Card Pocket

Simply Scallops Large

Open Simply Scallops Trio

Expand Your View

InLinkz.com

More with Pretty Poppies

2013-03-29T18:35:00.006-04:00

It appears that spring has finally decided to arrive here in Boston and I couldn't be happier. It's been a LONG winter.

I'm still having so much fun stamping with Lisa Johnson's new Pretty Poppies set, I hope you don't mind seeing another card with this set. If you haven't picked this set up yet, I really recommend it, it's just SO pretty and great to stamp with. You may have noticed that I've done a little masking here to build this arrangement.

The blooms were stamped first with Electric Red ink, then covered with a mask. Then I used Jellybean Green to ink the stems, then stamped in the leaves and the bud. Finally, you simply remove the mask and voila, the stems are "behind" the blooms. Be sure to leave me a note if you don't know what I'm talking about and I can get working on a quick little tutorial.

I've added a quick Photo Corners Die-namics complete with a Kraft Button and a bit of Hemp Cord. I have this fun chunky black glitter that works just perfectly for the poppy centers.

In a Jiffy

2013-03-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

I especially love when someone that hasn't seen my handiwork before opens one of my cards. Since us crafty girls do this all the time, it's no big deal...but tonight my friends husband oohed and ahhed over this little gift card holder. He was truly fascinated. And I love that it's that simple. This isn't a crazy layout, this card doesn't have a remarkable amount of layers, it was the pocket. Awesome.

My kids have reached the age where their friends really like gift cards, and the Gift Card Greetings Stamp Set and the Vertical Gift Card Holder make for really quick, and fun cards. And yahoo, I didn't have to go to Toys R Us. That's what I call a win-win.

I diecut the gift card pocket from Black Licorice cardstock and then embossed the sentiment with white embossing powder.

I love the mix of black matting with bright pops of color. This fun patterned paper is from Pebbles. I added a touch of the Pinking Edge Die-namics.

The two little flag elements were cut from the Mix and Match Banners and then I layered with a Black Licorice Button tied with a bit of Hemp Cord. Easy peasy!

Have a great day!

Scrap to Win with My Favorite Things

2013-03-20T11:31:00.001-04:00

I'm a few days late with my scrap page for the new MFT Scrap Sketch. But it's all good because you've got a whole month to play along with us. It makes me happy to know that by playing along, I'll get at LEAST 12 pages done this year. And, did I mention PRIZES? You'll find all the details RIGHT HERE.

I'm here to share this fun page I made of me with my crazy college pals from this past weekend's girls getaway. It's an annual event and always filled with lots of laughs. This year I brought my camera and tripod and forced them to take photos.

They were pretty reluctant at first about my plans for a photoshoot, but we had a good laugh and I got a bunch of great photos. These girls are my besties from college, sans sweet Meri who is home caring for her sweet bundle of baby boy! We've been through it all together and I love every one of them to pieces.

I'm in love with the High Tea Party Die-namics. I'm pretty sure I need to go make a card with it RIGHT NOW.

Here's the sketch for this month, I can't wait to see what you come up with!

Here are the links to the products I've used today:

Die-namics Botanical Beauty

So Long Google Reader...Hello Feedly!

2013-03-14T22:09:00.003-04:00

So, I was perusing Facebook the other night (I'm fairly FB obsessed) and noticed a comment from a friend that Google Reader would soon be ending. Gasp! I have a long list of blogs I like to check in on.

After a quick moment of panic, I was directed by one of my fellow DT members, Sarah, that Feedly was a great alternative, and that it would bookmark your existing reading list. Um, that's perfect and exactly what I needed.

I took a moment to surf on over and quickly downloaded the free software for Safari. Check it out - boom, it will automatically migrate your existing reading list over to Feedly. How easy is that? Within minutes (yes, like two minutes!) I was up and running.

I also picked up the FREE iPhone ap. It's a breeze to navigate and so user friendly!

It was quick and painless and I'm loving it! In fact, I've decided that Feedly is going to be an even better resource for me, it's so much more user friendly that I actually stand a chance at keeping up with the blogs on my feed. I spend a good 15-20 minutes each afternoon sitting in the car pickup line waiting for my boys, and this afternoon I was able to zip through a LOT of inspiration during the wait.

You can easily customize how you view your feed you can see little snippets like this -

Or view full articles if you'd prefer.

I hope you'll join me over on Feedly. To add sites to your list, simply click "add website" over on the top left hand corner....

It will pop up a little window over on the right hand side. If you start typing in www.stampedbyhand you'll see me pop up just below.

Or, if you type is Just a Little Something that will find me too :)

I'm off to go spend some time browsing around on Feedly! Hope this information is helpful my friends!

Is Less Maybe More?

2013-03-14T09:27:00.001-04:00

Usually I'm a "more is more" type gal, but today I have a more clean and simple styled card to share with you. I had a card to send for a more serious occasion and my usual "cutesy" style of cardmaking wasn't going to fit the bill.

The recently released Pretty Poppies set contains such a variety of elements that I challenged myself to let the patterned paper go for a change and just stamp. I've slimmed down the layers from my usual, oh gazillion layers. I'd say this was a reasonably mailable card, though yes, I've added three buttons. (The postman is never pleased with that addition...)

So what type of stamper are YOU? More is more, or clean and simple?

I've had a few people ask me about the MFT Ink, and I just wanted to say that having the right ink for clear stamps makes all the difference. The coverage with MFT's Premium Dye ink is really spectacular, as the ink really clings to the stamp. Some inks just don't work that well with clear stamps, no matter how much ink you try to apply, it look "bubbly" on the surface of the stamp and will just not stamp cleanly leaving an uneven coverage to your stamped image.

The other thing that I really appreciate is that the ink dries incredibly fast. I'll admit, I'm not hugely patient, so this is a big factor for me. This ink is the reason I'm starting to fall back into love with solid stamping again.

Thanks so much for stopping by today! I've got two new baby cards to make. Honestly, the best crafty assignment a girl could ask for, so I hope to be back SOON to share.

Here are the links to the products I've used on today's card:

MFT New Release

2013-03-11T22:00:00.000-04:00

I've had a blast playing with the new stamps, inks and Die-namics at My Favorite Things and I'm happy to let you know that the new release products are NOW available!

I missed the Doodle Garden preview day, and it's been a little too long since I've had a chance to watercolor. These images are just perfect for the technique. I stamped Fluttering By to watercolor paper, added clear embossing powder and then zapped it with my heat gun. I really find that technique so relaxing.... I added just a bit of twinkle to her wings with a Sakura Stardust pen.

I had so much fun watercoloring that I decided to ink up the second cute new Doodle Garden - Party Time. After all, having a stash of birthday cards is always a good idea! I kept this one perfectly mailable, with no bulky embellishments. The new Party Banner Die-namics is beyond cute, I lightly rolled forward the edges of the banners and zig-zag stitched them into place.

After I got my kicks watercoloring, I decided I was warmed up for some stamping. Not coloring, just stamping. You know, back to my stamping "roots." Lisa Johnson's Pretty Poppies stamp set is simply gorgeous. I did a little masking, a little overstamping, and a little rock-and roll here. The poppies have been stamped with the new Electric Red Premium Dye Ink. For the record, I LOVE this color.

Then I decided I was prepared for getting a little messy. I'm a neat freak, so this was admittedly made me a little nervous.... I took a piece of plastic and mixed one of my Tim Holtz markers with a lot of water. I soaked that up with my Waterbrush and flicked it onto my finished panel.

After I was finished with my stamping, I stitched all along the edges, and rolled my edges forward for distressed detail.

If I haven't mentioned the MFT Black Licorice Ink from MFT let me just say "oh my goodness!" This ink has such a beautiful coverage and dries uber quickly. I love it most especially for my sentiment stamping.

Don't forget that ALL the new releases from My Favorite Things are now available. I hope you've found a few things you'd like to add to your collection this month.

You'll find a full list of all the participating designers in tonight's New Release Product Tour on the MFT Blog.

Sweet & Sassy

2013-03-10T00:00:00.000-05:00

It's PI Preview day over at My Favorite Things today and I was excited to color up this little cutie! I've been on a stamping kick lately instead of a coloring kick so this was a nice change for me.

I pulled a few of the elements from this month's Blueprints Die-namics (the two smaller rectangles, the pretty scalloped border rectangle and the stitched strip) and paired it with my beloved File Tab Die-namics. If you're just starting your die collection, these Blueprints are a really great basics set. There are so many ways to mix and match these elements, so you're off to a running start.

Little miss PI is sporting a paper pieced shirt, and then I've used my much neglected Copic markers on the rest of the image. I think I've mentioned before but the new MFT Black Licorice ink is amazing for your sentiments, it has a nice rich coverage and dries in a heartbeat.

Since I just restocked on Black Licorice, Kraft and Whip Cream Cardstocks and my personal stash is secured, I'll go ahead and remind you to pick yours up now too!

Don't forget to check out all the details about the upcoming release:

You can attend the New Release Party on March 11 from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can WIN PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on March 11 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is going on now! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win over $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on March 11 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Here are the links to the products I've used from the MFT Boutique. Remember that the new release is MONDAY night!

39 Again - Forever

2013-03-08T00:00:00.000-05:00

Oh 39, it's the new 29. RIGHT? Oh goodness, please tell me yes... Heaven help me, this past weekend my college pals and I kicked off the first in a series of 40th birthday celebrations. Let me just say, I celebrated 21 with these girls so we go a long way back.

My girlfriend got a god laugh out of this card, it certainly was a kinder gift than the 40th birthday tiara I bought her and made her wear out all night. I'm a little worried about the payback I'll have for that decision...

The new By the Numbers from My Favorite Things is a fabby little birthday set, I can use it for a cute Happy1st birthday card, or use it to create many 39 (again) cards - and any number in between.

I stamped the "3" and the "9" to patterned paper and then trimmed them out. Since it's a "celebratory" card it is mounted to a Jumbo Fishtail Banner. The little "you're" is stamped to a Traditional Tags STAX - the teeny one and hung from a tiny bit of twine

Seriously friends, go ahead and add this stamp set to your shopping cart as soon as it comes out Tuesday night. Cards for all ages. I've got to get a few created for some 10 year old birthday parties coming up soon. Since it's snowing AGAIN here in Boston, looks like I'll have some crafty time to work on my card stash!

Be sure to stop by the MFT Blog for a list of designers with samples today

Here are the details about the upcoming release:

You can attend the New Release Party on March 11 from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can WIN PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on March 11 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is going on now! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win over $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on March 11 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Introducing: Birthday Sentiments

2013-03-07T00:00:00.000-05:00

Okay friends, here's the thing. You know what's really hard for me, Clean and Simple cards. Let me just say, they are NOT simple for me, and you know what, sometimes they aren't even clean (it's really hard for me not to get ink just about everywhere.)

Now, when I get a Clean and Simple card done, I'm totally giddy with excitement that I pulled it off. Today we're previewing a stamp set called Birthday Sentiments. Starting with my Traditional Tags STAX, a few ink pads I mixed and matched the elements in the stamp set. I adore that the set has sentiments in different fonts and sizes that will pair together in a number of ways. Ahem, I also love that it has the "a little late" in there because honestly, that's the story of my LIFE!

I added in the super cute and sweet Party Banner Die-namics. It's beyond adorable.

I have another card to share with this sweet stamp set. This one is quick and a little bit scrappy too.

The sentiment "make a wish" was stamped in the chalk-art style to a piece of Steel Grey card stock and then heat embossed. The candles were cut from little rolled bits of scrap patterned paper and then I used the wing from the bird in Easter Elements to create the little candle flames.

I'm using two dies included in Blueprints 1 for my layers. I LOVE using the Blueprints dies to cut my main panel of my card, it's always a clean cut, no frayed edges, everything is perfectly aligned. I love my Blueprints!

Thanks so much for joining me today! Be sure to stop by the MFT Blog for a full list of designers with projects today.

myTunes

2013-03-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

We're on day TWO of teasers for the upcoming My Favorite Things release. Day two is quickly becoming my favorite, because I adore working with the Laina Lamb Design products. It's been fun to be scrapping more regularly again, and my kids love coming home to find that I've completed a page.

They don't love having my camera in their faces all the time, but this seems to take the sting out of it for them. This sentiment "life is too short to pause" is so perfect for my little guy. He's always on the move, always busy and when he's absorbed in something, it's nearly impossible to get him to take a break.

The boys each got an iPod for Christmas, and oh man does it make road trips so much easier for us. This photo was taken just before we hopped into the car on a four hour drive, and this little dude does NOT like the car, but with his iPod and these retro headphones he was ready to go.

This Die-namics set, Rock and Roll is fabulous for page accents, or even card accents. I've used the guitar and the star on this page. It pairs perfectly with the Rock On stamp set. I've used the "rock on" sentiment embossed in white onto one of the Accent It - Labels and Tabs. I die-cut a few and clustered them.

The sentiment "my tunes" was taken directly from the Playlist stamp set. I love getting inspiration for page titles from my stamp sets! I also plucked the "old school" from the Playlist stamp set and used that just tucked onto the bottom of my page. He loves those old school headphones, the ear buds drive him c-r-a-z-y.

Don't forget to check the MFT Blog today for a full list of designers with cards and pages to share.

I'll see you tomorrow with another preview!

It's My FAVORITE Time!

2013-03-05T00:00:00.000-05:00

Hi friends! I've been blog-less for a few weeks, but I'm excited to be back! It's time for My Favorite Things Teasers. Here's all the information you need to know about this month's release!

You can attend the New Release Party on February 4 from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can WIN PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on February 4 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is going on now! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win over $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on February 4 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Today I've got teasers to share using Lisa Johnson's new stamp set Pretty Poppies and the companion Die-namics Poppies and Leaves. I've been away on vacation with the family and then I was so behind in work. So, I was feeling more tan a little rusty when I sat down to stamp. This beautiful stamp set was SO easy to work with, it was a great way to jump back into stamping!

This card uses a really incredible product from My Favorite Things that I'm so excited about. It's called Blueprints. I'm sure you'll be seeing lots of Blueprints from the MFT Designers this week, we're all LOVING it. Here's the scoop.... Introducing Blueprints – The Foundation for Your Creativity

Whether you have limited time, or simply need a creative jumpstart; Blueprints is your answer. A design plan and building blocks in one revolutionary product. Follow the provided sketches, or mix and match the elements provided to become your own architect. Leave the heavy lifting to us.

Another way I like to warm back up to stamping when I'm feeling rusty, is to make tags. They're just a nice little canvas to work within. Might I add, they're also fabulous to have on hand for gift-giving. I thought this was a great way to play with the new Poppy Builder Die-namics.

This Die-namics set builds really *luscious* dimensional flowers, in a wide assortment of sizes. Since the tag will hang on the gift, it's okay that it's a GIANT flower with loads of dimension, I won't have to worry about crushing it in an envelope.

Starting with the Traditional Tags STAX, I added a beautiful trim using the Bracket Edge Duo. This gorgeous sentiment is included in Lisa's new Pretty Poppies stamp set.

You'll want to stop by the MFT Blog for a full list of designers with samples to share. I hope to see you again tomorrow for another MFT Preview!