Stamping With Susan

Happiest Birthday

2012-01-16T22:55:00.002-05:00

We are leaving early tomorrow morning for San Antonio and I still need to go up and finish packing. I'm not sure I will be posting from Leadership so you may not hear from me for a few days!

As promised, here is my swap for Leadership. I really like the way this turned out. When I first thought about using Bordering on Romance, this was not what I envisioned at all! Isn't that usually what happens? The first plan is usually not the finished product!

Supplies: Ordering on Romance and Apothecary Art stamp sets; Basic Black, Very Vanilla and Brushed Gold card stock; Versamark, Black and Gold Stampin' Emboss powder; Whisper White Craft Ink; Frost White Shimmer Pain & Moonlight Pearlized Accent Ink; Labels Collection Framelits & The Big Shot; Pearls

After embossing the flowers on the Brushed Gold card stock, I used Whisper White Craft ink as a primer. The Shimmer paint doesn't hold well on the Brushed Gold card stock by itself. After this layer dried, I put a top coat of Moonlight Pearlized Accent Ink to finish it off.

Hearts Collection Framelits

2012-01-16T11:46:00.002-05:00

I just sent out my newsletter and put a photo of this first card in the Product of the Month feature. When I was finished making this card, I took the reverse image of the heart and used it to frame the same designer series paper (Sweep Shop) and made the second card posted. So don't throw out the reverse images!!

Supplies used in top card: Lucky Limeade, Wisteria Wonder & Whisper White card stock; Jelly Bean Brads, Lucky Limeade chiffon ribbon (Sale-A-Bration); Lucky Limeade Classic Ink, Polka Dot Embossing Folder and the Hearts Collection Framelits, Sweet Shop DSP

Supplies used in the bottom card: Pool Party & Wisteria Wonder card stock; Wisteria Wonder Classic Ink; Hearts Collection Framelits, Polka Dot Embossing Folder; Sweet Shop DSP, Pear Pizzazz Pleated Satin Ribbon, Corner Rounder punch

Quick Birthday Card

2012-01-15T19:57:00.003-05:00

I posted about this technique (Pulled Pastels) several weeks ago so thought I would post another project using the same technique. The stamp set used is Just Believe. The colors are Perfect Plum and Old Olive on Whisper White card stock.

Come back tomorrow! I will post my Leadership swap tomorrow! (smile)

Tea Shoppe

2012-01-11T11:07:00.001-05:00

I wish you could smell this card! I embossed the big tea cup with the new Vanilla embossing powder! I made this card last week and it still smells good!

Supplies: So Saffron, Pool Party, Soft Suede and Very Vanilla card stock; Attic Boutique designer series paper; Tea Shoppe stamp set, Versamark and Vanilla embossing powder; Soft Suede Classic Ink; Oval Punch; Pearls

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-01-10T13:59:00.001-05:00

I am in the midst of preparing for Leadership in San Antonio next week so will post projects as I get them done. In addition to swaps, Stampin' Up! is holding a stamping contest. We can submit cards or scrapbook pages featuring the new stamp sets in the Occasions Mini. The entries will be displayed so I am looking forward to taking photos of some fantastic projects!

I've been playing with stamps and accessories from the new Occasions Mini catalog. The hearts are from the Candy Conversation stamp on page 43. They are punched out with the small heart punch. The card is embossed with one of the Adorning Accents Embossing Folders on page 11. The pleated ribbon is on page 12.

So Grateful....

2011-12-30T14:14:00.001-05:00

As the year comes to a close and I reflect back on 2011, I am grateful for many things. Some things, not so much, but part of life is living through the painful, tough times. So I will thank God for all he has graced me with.

That was not the reason I made this card but the sentiment fits how I am feeling today.

This card features a number of new things from the upcoming Occasions Mini ~ Apothecary Art stamp set, Twitterpated designer series paper, Labels Collection Framelits. Which reminds me...January 3rd is the last day to order from the Holiday Mini, and January 4th starts the sales period for the Occasions Mini. And in just a few short weeks (January 24th) Sale-A-Bration starts! Busy month!!

Supplies Used: Early Espresso, Baja Breeze, Whisper White card stock; Early Espresso Craft Ink & Clear Embossing Powder (Flower stamp); Baja Breeze, Pear Pizazz Blushing Bride markers; Labels Framelits; Baja Breeze seam binding; Dazzling Detail; Striped Embossing Folder & Vanilla Smooch Spritz (on the Baja Breeze card stock)

Wedding Card

2011-12-29T11:02:00.001-05:00

Our son is in town for the Holidays and is going to a wedding tomorrow. Of course he needed a hand made card for the event! The Designer Cuts cards on page 9 are perfect for those special occasions! The real beauty of the card is in the laser cut heart. I adhered some of the Everyday Enchantment designer series paper from Sale-A-Bration behind the heart and added some pearls. I tied some Calypso Coral organdy ribbon (also from Sale-A-Bration) and tied on the love charm from Trinket Hearts. The greeting is from Teeny Tiny Wishes.

Sneak Peek!

2011-12-22T08:22:00.001-05:00

This card features some items from the Occasions Mini Catalog - the Adorning Accent Embossing folder and the Hearts Collection Framelits and the Sale-a-Bration catalog - Fresh Vintage stamp set and Everyday Enchantment DSP. The Flower image from the stamp set is embossed on a piece of the designer series paper, then die cut with the smallest heart Framelit. This piece is matted on another piece of designer series paper die cut with a larger heart Framelit.

Gnome Peeking!!

2011-12-21T12:10:00.001-05:00

One of the new stamp sets in the upcoming Occasions Mini is Gnome, Sweet Gnome. He makes the perfect little Santa! The greeting is from the coordinating stamp set, Gnomenclature and the gifts are from this year's Ronald McDonald House stamp set, Turtle & Co.

Santa's beard is embellished with Dazzling Detail the polka dots on the middle gift are dotted with the Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Detail.

Snow Much Fun!

2011-12-17T20:52:00.002-05:00

This was one of the Hostess Club projects we made this month. After embossing the images with Black embossing powder, use a paint brush or cotton tip swap to apply bleach to the desired areas. It may take a few minutes to see the effect. You will want to experiment with different colors of card stock to get the look you want. We used Crumb Cake for this card.

And here is the inside of the card...

Supplies: Snow Much Fun stamp set; Bravo Burgundy and Crumb Cake card stock; Versamark Ink and Black Stampin' Emboss Powder; Pumpkin Pie, Basic Black, Cherry Cobbler and Garden Green markers; Very Vanillia Velvet Stitched Ribbon; Dazzling Details (used on the shade areas of the Snow Man)

Christmas Card 2011

2011-12-12T13:56:00.001-05:00

One of my personal goals this year was to become more familiar with Stampin' Up!'s My Digital Studio. I keep telling myself "baby steps, baby steps..." so I thought I would start with using one of the card templates that are available.

I didn't make any changes to the card front but did customize the inside with a photo of seven of our grandchildren, along with a customized message. It's hard to see in the photo but I did embellish the berries with some of the new Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Detail that is in the upcoming Occasions Mini Catalog.

Pulled Pastels

2011-12-03T14:38:00.002-05:00

Every once in a while, I pull out a technique that I haven't done in awhile. I decided this would be a fun technique for my monthly "Technique Tuesday" classed. We make one or two technique cards, then a project using that technique. This is quick and easy to make!

Supplies: Whisper White & Night of Navy card stock; Versamark Ink; White Stampin' Emboss Powder; Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spritz; Christmas Lodge and Bells & Boughs stamp sets

Burnish Night of Navy card stock with White Stampin' Pastel.
Ink up the tree from Christmas Lodge with Versamark, stamp it over the pastel & lift up.
Emboss the greeting from Bells & Boughs in the upper right corner.
Lightly spritz the card with Vanilla (or Gold) Smooch Spritz.
When dry, adhere to Whisper White card.

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

2011-12-01T14:43:00.002-05:00

I saw this project in our monthly Stampin' Success magazine and loved it! So here is my version. Along with our Paper Daisies and Fleurettes II, I punched and die cut flowers out of Whisper White and Silver Glimmer Paper, layered them and embellished with Rhinestones, Pearls, Buttons. I am going to make two more, one larger and one smaller, for our Mantle but thought I would post this one now.

Little Packages...

2011-11-21T17:19:00.001-05:00

"Good things come in little packages" These cute little ornaments were on display at the Regional seminar in Louisville. I was going through some photos and thought these were so cute! They were made with the Holly Berry Bouquet designer series paper and the Petal Card Double Punch. Punch out two of them and adhere them together to form a box. Embellish as desired. And of course, they can also be used to hold small, sparkly gifts!

Winter Wishes

2011-11-15T13:39:00.002-05:00

These Winter Wishes Stitched Felt accents from the Holiday Mini Catalog are great for adorning cards and tags this Holiday Season! The "To" & "From" are from the Fabulous Phrases stamp set. The panels on the door are edged with ink to give them some dimension.

Shaker Frames

2011-11-11T09:13:00.002-05:00

The very first thing I thought of when I received my Shaker Frames from the Holiday Mini was SNOWMAN!!!! And how appropriate that we saw our first flakes of the white stuff yesterday!

I created a tutorial for you. Have fun, stay warm and build a snowman!

Regional Make & Take

2011-11-08T16:07:00.002-05:00

As promised, here is the first of two make and takes we made at Stampin' Up!'s Regional Seminar in Louisville, KY. It's hard to see but the flower image is stamped over the Good Grid image. I really like this effect!

Supplies: You Are Loved (page 40 - Holiday Mini), Good Grid stamp sets; More Mustard, Old Olive and Cherry Cobbler Markers; Soft Suede Ink; ; First Edition Specialty DSP; Old Olive, More Mustard, Very Vanilla card stock; Cherry Cobbler seam binding; Vintage Trinkets, Crop-a-Dile; 1" Square Punch; Distressing Essentials (Tea Stain ink)

Tear First Edition Specialty DSP as shown and distress using Tea Stain ink. Use the flat stamp from Distressing Essentials to soften and blend the Tea Stain ink. Adhere to the Old Olive piece with Stampin' Dimensionals and then adhere this piece to the Cherry Cobbler card stock.
Ink up the Good Grid stamp with Soft Suede Classic ink, stamp off once, then stamp the image on the Very Vanilla card stock. Ink the flower image with the markers and stamp on the grid image. Stamp greeting with Soft Suede Classic Ink
Punch holes along the left edge of the Very Vanilla piece with the small hole on the Crop-a-Dile. Cut a line from the edge of the card stock to each hole.
Punch a 1" Square of More Mustart, fold over edge of the Very Vanilla piece as shown. Attach with the Vintage Trinket safety pin. Tie Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding to safety pin.
Adhere this piece to the More Mustard card base.
Ink flower image with markers, stamp off once and stamp image on a Very Vanilla envelope. Distress front of envelope with Tea Stain ink and flat stamp from Distressing Essentials.

Christmas Stocking Card

2011-11-07T08:34:00.001-05:00

This card is so easy to make! Fold a 6" x 12" piece of card stock in half. Place it on the Holiday Stocking Bigz L Die with the fold at the top of the die, just below the cut line. This will give you the fold at the top of the card. Then die cut a piece of Designer Series Paper (dsp) with the same die. Note: Place the side of the dsp that you want on the stocking face side down on the die.

Adhere the dsp stocking to the card and embellish as desired. For this card, I added Dazzling Detail along the stitch line at the top of the stocking and along the toe and heel stitch lines. The Poinsettia was made by punching out 2 flowers from the 5-Petal punch, distressing them and off set them. A gold Glimmer Brad is in the center of the flower. The greeting on the cuff of the stocking is from Four the Holidays stamp set and Frostwood Lodge is the dsp.

Sweet Treats

2011-11-06T19:36:00.002-05:00

I made these for some Craft & Vendor Shows I am participating in over the next several weeks. I bought the candy sticks at Cracker Barrel, put them in our 1" x 8" cello bags from the Holiday Mini and made the toppers for them. They are great for stocking stuffers, a little treat for everyone at your Holiday gatherings, classroom treats.....

Front and back views. The greeting is stamped and punched with the 2 3/8 Scallop Circle punch. The front is stamped with Garden Green classic ink and punched out with the 1 3/4" Scallop Circle punch. A second image was stamped in Cherry Cobbler and the center is punched out with the 1" Circle Punch and adhered with a Stampin' Dimensional, then embellished with a Rhinestone jewel.

Regional Seminar in Louisville

2011-11-04T16:32:00.002-04:00

Two of my downline, Barb and Freddie, joined me for a road trip to Louisville, KY for a Stampin' Up! Regional Seminar. As with all Stampin' Up! events, it was well worth the drive! Freddie was still on Hawaii mode (note the shell lei she used as a lanyard for her name tag!) having come back less than a week before we left!

I loved the Make & Take's which Barb and Freddie are holding (I'll post larger photos in a later post).

Here is my swap card. I used the Soft Holly Wheel with Garden Green Classic Ink, then applied Versamark ink over the whole piece and embossed it with Iridescent Ice embossing powder. It's matted on Garden Green card stock. The card base and 1/8" taffeta ribbon is Real Red. The
greeting is from Snow Swirled and punched with the Decorative Label Punch.

Merry Christmas

2011-10-18T10:17:00.001-04:00

I like using the 5 petal flower punch to create poinsettias. Simply punch two of them out, distress them and off-set them with a gold glimmer brad in the center. After stamping the leaves, I used a blender pen to fill in the color just a bit.

Supplies: Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive & Very Vanilla card stock; Old Olive Classic Ink; Blender Pen; Bells & Boughs stamp set; 5 Petal Flower and Lace Ribbon Border punches; Glimmer Brads.

Stocking Builder Punch

2011-10-17T17:41:00.003-04:00

I'm liking this new punch from the Holiday Mini catalog! I couldn't decide which stocking I like more! It's hard to see, but I added some Dazzling Detail to the holly berries. Themini jingle bell adds just the right touch!

Supplies: Real Red, Wild Wasabi and Very Vanilla card stock; Christmas Greeting stamp set; Wild Wasabit Classic Ink; White Baker's Twine; Holly Berry designer series paper; Stocking Builder Punch; Mini Jingle Bells; The Big Shot & the 3" Circle Die; corner rounder punch.

Lolly or Rosette?

2011-10-14T13:24:00.002-04:00

I'm not sure what these are called - I've heard both Lolly and Rosette. Regardless, they are fun to make and so easy with the Stampin' Up!'a Simply Scored Scoring Tool (item #122334, $29.95). It is on page 7 of the Holiday Mini catalog.

Supplies used: Red Glimmer Paper, Wild Wasabi and Very Vanilla card stock; Holly Berry Specialty Designer Series Paper and Buttons; Real Red Classic Ink; Red Glitter & 2-Way Glue Pen (for the outer edge of the rosette / lolly); Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine and Mini Jingle Bells; Christmas Greeting stamp set

Love these Big Buttons!

2011-10-13T11:44:00.001-04:00

When I first saw these big buttons I really didn't know what I would do with them. But after I started playing with them, I just love them! Our 1 1/4" circle punch fits perfectly on them! This card was one of our Hostess Club projects this month!

Supplies: Pear Pizazz, Very Vanilla, Early Espresso and More Mustard card stock; Spice Cake DSP; Spice Cake Designer Buttons; Word Window, Modern Label & Blossom Petals punches; Square Lattice Embossing Folder & the Big Shot

Elise is 3!

2011-10-12T11:10:00.002-04:00

My granddaughter, Elise, turned 3 on Monday. She has been talking about her birthday for weeks with great anticipation! Elise is truly a girly-girl. Sounds like she had a great birthday! I just wish we could have celebrated with her!

Supplies: Regal Rose & Whisper White card stock; Black Stazon ink; Regal Rose, Marine Mist, Pear Pizzazz & Wisteria Wonder markers; Easy Events Stamp Set; Regal Rose 1/8 inch taffeta ribbon; Cheerful Treat (hostess only) DSP; Rhinestone jewel; 2-way glue pen and Dazzling Diamonds glitter; 2 3/8" Scallop Circle Punch.

Fill My Stockings, Santa!

2011-10-03T10:28:00.002-04:00

One of the displays I was planning on for the Holiday Mini Catalog was a banner of Christmas Stockings made with the Holiday Stocking Bigz L Die fro my fireplace mantle. A fellow demonstrator, Kathie, had already made one and brought it over for me to use. It was too big for my mantle. Kathie made hers for a much larger area but we found a great space for it and hung it up! Thanks so much, Kathie!

I Love Spice Cake!

2011-10-01T20:33:00.001-04:00

These were fun cards to make - and so easy with the Big Shot! I used the Fun Flowers XL Bigz Die and the Spice Cake designer series paper and Big Buttons. The greeting is from Sincere Salutations. The background of the flowers was embossed with the Polka Dot embossing folder.

Fall Decorations

2011-09-30T13:03:00.002-04:00

I just love how this little pumpkin turned out! I cut 1 1/2 inch strips of Pumpkin Pie card stock and adhered them to a 2 1/2" circle, also Pumpkin Pie with Sticky Strip. The leaf and the stem are made with the Wood Sheets. The leaf is die cut from the Bigz Leaves #2 die and sponged Garden Green Classic ink on it. I drew the stem on the Wood Sheet, cut it out with Craft & Rubber Scissors and sponged it with Soft Suede Classic ink. I bent the bottom and adhered it to the top of the pumpkin with Sticky Strip. The little vines are tiny strips of Soft Suede card stock curled with scissors.

Spooky Boxes

2011-09-29T12:25:00.002-04:00

Both of these little boxes were made with the Fancy Favor box XL Die. I wrapped the mummy in some gauze and punched out his eyes with card stock. The center of the eyes were punched from the Red Glimmer Paper.

Frankenstein is made from Lucky Limeade card stock. I die cut and additional 1 inch strip in Basic Black for his hair and used scraps from the negative image for his eyebrows and mouth. The "bolts" on his neck is punched from the Modern Label punch in Rich Razzleberry, cut in half and then cut and folded to form the bolt.

Congratulations, Jim & Juanita!

2011-09-21T08:52:00.002-04:00

A few weeks ago, we attended our son-in-law's father's wedding. I just read an article about quilling in our Stampin' Success magazine and thought I would give it a try for their card.

Supplies: Shimmery White, Basic Black and Vellum card stock; Vintage Wallpaper Texturz Embossing folder and the Sizzix Big Shot. Dazzling Diamonds (inside the hearts). I used strips of Vellum card stock to quill the hearts.

Halloween Treats

2011-09-20T09:53:00.002-04:00

These cute little treat bags were so easy to make! These would also be great for your Thanksgiving or Christmas table!

Supplies: Frightful Sight dsp; Old Olive and Whisper White card stock; Scaredy Cat stamp set; Basic Black Classic Ink and 1/8" ribbon; White Baker's Twine; Decorative Label Punch; Paper Crimper; Sticky Strip; Dazzling Details

To make the pouch:

The designer series paper is 4" x 6". Adhere long edges together to form a tube.
Adhere one of the 4" ends together with a bit of Sticky Strip.
Insert end into Paper Crimper and make 3 crimps. Insert candy and repeat on the remaining open end.

To make the tag:

Stamp image on Whisper White card stock and punch with Decorative Label Punch.
Punch a scrap of Old Olive card stock with the Decorative Label Punch and cut in half. Trim off the middle points and adhere to top and bottom of Whisper White Decorative Label
Add Dazzling Detail to stamped images if desired
Tie ribbon around pouch
Punch hole in tag and tie around ribbon with Baker's Twine.

Trick or Treating Owl

2011-09-19T15:51:00.002-04:00

I love this little trick or treating owl from the Warmest of Wishes stamp set. This set is a Hostess Only set from the Holiday Mini. This set has stamps for Thanksgiving through Valentine's Day!

Supplies: Warmest of Wishes, Teeny Tiny Wishes & Wonderfully Worn stamp sets; Pumpkin Pie, Garden Green and Rich Razzleberry card stock and Classic Ink; Rich Razzleberry Grosgrain Ribbon., Dazzling Details (used on the trick or treat bag); Modern Label, Word Window, 2 3/8" Scallop Circle & Owl Builder Punches.

Daring Adventure, con't

2011-09-15T10:13:00.002-04:00

Here are two more cards using Daring Adventure and the Well Worn designer series paper. I really like the warm colors of the paper - it's great for Fall! When I first saw Daring Adventure in the Idea Book & Catalog, I didn't even give it consideration. But I love Well Worn! The two are shown together in the Well Worn Product Suite on page 144 so I thought I would give it a try. I am glad I did!

Supplies: Cajun Craze, Not Quite Navy, River Rock & Naturals Ivory card stock and Classic Ink; Not Quite Navy Taffeta Ribbon; Texture Jumbo Wheel with Soft Suede Classic Ink; Modern Label and Word Window Punches; Houndstooth Texturz Embossing Folder

Supplies: Early Espresso, River Rock, Very Vanilla card stock; River Rock & Early Espresso Classic Ink; Well Worn dsp; Early Espresso 1/8" ribbon.

Happy Birthday Josh!

2011-09-14T10:23:00.001-04:00

Our son-in-law, Josh, is celebrating a birthday this weekend. (Happy Birthday, Josh!) Here is the card we are sending him. I have been making a concerted effort to design more masculine cards so will post more using the Well Worn designer series paper and Daring Adventure stamp set in upcoming posts.

Supplies: Daring Adventure and Happiest Birthday Wishes (hostess) stamp sets; Soft Suede & River Rock card stock; Soft Suede & Cajun Craze Classic Ink; Well Worn dsp; Soft Suede Taffeta Ribbon; Houndstooth Texturz Embossing Folder; 1 3/4" Circle Punch.

I Love Flowers!

2011-09-13T14:04:00.002-04:00

I was inspired by some of the displays at Convention, which were absolutely fantastic! So using punches, dies and embellishments I put these came up with these flower displays for the Open House! Really easy to make!

Village of Cuteness

2011-09-12T16:35:00.002-04:00

So many cute things to share with you! I will start with some projects from Convention. This year, Stampin' Up! offered some "extra" classes in the evening at our annual Convention. These little houses were from the Village of Cuteness class. We had a lot of fun and I think they turned out darling! Certainly different than the projects we usually make!

These were on display at the 2011 -12 Idea Book & Catalog Open House. Missed it? Not to worry....I am having a Holiday Mini Catalog Open House on Saturday, September 24th from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm! There is a lot to share!!

Swap Card

2011-07-23T10:23:00.003-04:00

This is a card I have used in a couple of different swaps, including Convention. It features the stamp set Sweet for the Sweets. This one of the FREE stamp sets given to demonstrators on the Alaskan Cruise! Woo-Hoo! I love, love, love getting FREE stamp sets!! As a matter of fact, in the past few months, I have received a total of 13, yes, 13 FREE stamp sets!! I just love being a demonstrator!!

There is still time to sign up to become a demonstrator for only $99! And if you sign up by July 31, you will receive a Holiday Project Kit worth $40!! Woo Hoo!! For more information on becoming a demonstrator, please contact me at susan@la-croix.net or call me at 734-285-2116. You can also visit my web site.

Supplies: Pacific Point, Wild Wasabit & Whisper White card stock; Pacific Point &Wild Wasabi Classic Ink; Sweets for the Sweet stamp set; Scallop Ribbon Border, 1" circle & 2 1/2" circle punches; Beyond the Garden designer series paper; Stampin' Dimensionals; Mini Brads.

Convention Gifts

2011-07-22T10:26:00.002-04:00

This year I made Convention gifts for everyone in our group. These are post-it note holders and are super easy to make!

Score a 6 3/4" x 3 1/4" piece of card stock at 3 1/4" and 3 1/2". Peel off back page of post it notes and adhere to the inside. I used Snail adhesive to really hold it in place. Embellish as desired. Easy-peasy!!!

Vines & Blossoms

2011-07-21T13:06:00.002-04:00

I haven't used any of my wheels for awhile and had a request from a stamper for some ideas using wheels. This card uses the Vine & Blossoms wheel from the Idea Book & Catalog.

Supplies: Concord Crush, Naturals Ivory, Always Artichoke & Wisteria Wonder card stock; Always Artichoke & Concrod Crush Ink; Always Artichoke Seam Binding; Boho Blossoms, Scallop Oval, Large Oval,& Decorative Label punches; Pearls; Stampin' Dimensionals

Four Generations

2011-07-05T11:39:00.003-04:00

We were blessed to have all of our children and grandchildren home for Christmas last year. We are also blessed to have three of our four parents still with us! We took the opportunity to have new family portraits taken (by photographer and friend, Rob Matheson, owner of A Splendid Memory, Allen Park, MI). This photo is of my mother, me, three daughters and five grandaughters! The new designer paper, Paisley Petals made making this 8" x 8" page a snap! It's hard to see but I put some of the Bitty Buttons on a couple of the punched hearts at the bottom of the page.

Sail Away

2011-06-12T11:37:00.001-04:00

Several years ago we owned a sail boat. We love to sail! We have lots of great memories spending time with our kids, or even just the two of us going out to watch the sun set on the water. The image of the Sail Away stamp is perfect to capture the memories of our sailing days!

I've created a tutorial for this cut and score card. Enjoy!

For You

2011-06-07T11:05:00.002-04:00

I saw a version of this card on the Cruise and thought it was perfect for a Hostess Club project. I don't know who the Demonstrator is to give credit fro the idea, but this is my version of it.

Supplies: Marina Mist, Wild Wasabi, Whisper White & Regal Rose card stock; XL Bird, Curly Label & Boho Blossoms Punches; Sizzix Big Shot, Lattice Bigz Die, Petals-A-Plenty Embossing Folder & Simple Flower Embosslit; Regal Rose Classic Ink; Basic Pearls

Good Bye Eastern Blooms, take 2!

2011-06-06T09:16:00.002-04:00

I'm not sure why the image didn't come through when I originally posted this, so let's give it another go!

One of my favorite stamp sets, Eastern Blooms, is going to retire at the end of the month. While I know I will miss this stamp set, I know that there are some fantastic new sets in the new catalog!

Stamps are guaranteed to be available through June 30, accessories are on a "while supplies last" basis. You can order from my web site, (Click on the shop now button to see the retiring Stamp sets, Accessories and Definitely Decorative items or you can e-mail me at susan@la-croix.net,or call me at 734-285-2116 and I will be happy to place an order for you!

Alaska!

2011-06-02T12:48:00.003-04:00

We are back from our Alaskan cruise ! What a fantastic trip! We were blessed with phenomenal weather - it only sprinkled for a few minutes one afternoon! I thought I would share just a few of the hundreds of photos we took!

This photo was taken at a state park in Ketchikan, our first port of call. These totom poles are hundreds of years old!

One of the highlights of our cruise (and the place where we probably took the most photos!), was Tracy Arm Fjord. We spent 4 hours in the fjord. Photos do not do this place justice! The blue area in the center of the photo is a glacier. The icebergs and flows along our route "calved" from this glacier. The newer chunks are the bright blue ones you see. Once it is exposed to the air, they turn white.We took a train ride up to the summit in Skagway. This is just one of the many beautiful scenes!

Flower Garden Embossing Folder

2011-05-27T06:00:00.000-04:00

This card was one of this month's Hostess Club projects. It highlights another way to use our Embossing Folders. After embossing Vellum card stock, turn it over so the indented side is up. Color the images with Stampin' Write markers (you can also use Watercolor Wonder crayons). Adhere it with the raised side up on a piece of Whisper White card stock cut the same size as the Vellum card stock. (hint: to keep adhesive from showing through the Vellum, place mini glue dots in the center of the flowers to adhere it to the Whisper White card stock)

Supplies: Pretty in Pink card stock & marker; Daffodil Delight card stock, marker & 1/8 Taffeta Ribbon; Wild Wasabi card stock, marker and Classic Ink; 1 3/4 x 7/8" Oval Large & Designer Label punches; Whisper White & Vellum card stock (not Vellum paper)

Plaid Technique

2011-05-25T06:00:00.001-04:00

I wish I could say that I came up with this great technique, but the credit goes to demonstrator Dawn Olshefske (www.dostamping.typepad.com). It's so easy! You will need a solid image stamp and 3 colors of ink (light, medium and dark).

Ink your stamp with the lightest color.
Holding the medium color ink pad at about a 30 degree angle, touch the edge of the ink pad to the stamp every 1/4 inch or so.
Turn your stamp 90 degrees. Repeat the second step with the darkest color ink
Stamp image on cardstock

It may take a little practice to get the feel of it but once you do, it's lots of fun! Enjoy!

Supplies: I {Heart}Hearts & Heard From the Heart stamp sets; Pink Pirouette card stock and Classic Ink; Rose Red card stock, Classic Ink & Seam Binding; Pretty in Pink Classic Ink; Scallop Ribbon Border punch and Paper Crimper

Supplies: Animal Stories stamp set; So Saffron card stock & Classic Ink; Pumpkin Pie card stock & Classic Ink; Early Espresso card stock, Classic Ink & Marker

Supplies: Paper Daisy dyed with Pretty in Pink Classic Ink Refill; Tangerine Tango card stock, Classic Ink and Big Button; Always Artichoke card stock, Classic Ink & Seam Binding

The Open Sea...again!

2011-05-23T06:00:00.000-04:00

The Open Sea is perfect for a masculine Vintage look. I love the collage technique! Here are a few tips creating a collage:

Start with your largest image. For this card, I used Basic Gray Classic Ink on the Captain's Log and stamped off once before stamping on the card stock.
Proceed with the next largest stamp working your way down to the smallest stamp to fill in the white spaces.
Overlap some of your images to create some dimension - don't be afraid to stamp off of the edges

Supplies used: The Open Sea & Travel Log (greeting) stamp sets; Basic Gray, Not Quite Navy, Cherry Cobbler; Naturals White Card Stock; Basic Gray, Chery Cobbler Not Quite Navy & Basic Gray Classic Ink; Wide Oval Punch; Cherry Cobbler/White Bakers Twine; Metallic Brads; Stampin' Dimensionals

The Open Sea

2011-05-21T06:00:00.000-04:00

I'm really trying to create more masculine cards and this new stamp set from the Summer Mini sure makes it easy! My Dad's birthday falls on Memorial Day this year and this is his card.

Supplies: The Open Sea & Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp sets; Nautical Expedition DSP; Sahara Sand, Early Espresso & Naturals White card stock; Early Espresso Classic Ink; Early Espresso/White Bakers Twine; Ticket Corner Punch; Metallic Brads

24 hours from now...

2011-05-19T14:34:00.003-04:00

... We will be aboard the cruise ship heading to Alaska! Woo-Hoo!! I will try and post some photos once in awhile but it will depend on network connections, etc. In the meantime, check back for some more projects that, hopefully, will post while I am gone!

Supplies: Fabulous Florets stamp set; Beyond the Garden DSP; Rose Red & Whisper White card stock; Tangerine Tango & Melon Mambo Stampin' Emboss Powder; Wild Wasabi Classic Ink & Versarmark Ink; Top Note die & the Big Shot; Basic Rhinestone Jewels; 5/8" Whisper White Satin Ribbon; Stampin' Dimensionals

It may be a bit difficult to see the that the 2 larger flowers are embossed (one in Melon Mambo and one in Tangerine Tango), cut out and adhered to the card with Stampin' Dimensionals.

Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch

2011-05-17T16:04:00.002-04:00

I love having so many options with one punch! Three different designs that coordinate! What fun! So many different looks that will brighten up your scrapbook pages, cards or whatever you are embellishing!

Supplies: Bold Blossom Stamp set; Wide Oval, Scallop Oval, Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer punches; Tangerine Tango, Whisper White, Old Olive and Tempting Turquoise card stock; Bold Brights Patterns Designer Series Paper Stack; Tangerine Tango & Old Olive Classic Ink; Rhinestone Brads; Stampin' Dimensionals

On The Grow

2011-05-15T20:17:00.002-04:00

The lilacs are blooming and I am starting to see hanging baskets and flowers being planted! I won't be planting my own flowers until we return from the Stampin' Up! Alaskan Cruise (5 days and counting!!). We leave this coming Friday and my husband and I are so, so excited! My daughter, Julie, also earned the cruise so that makes this trip even more exciting and special!

OK...back to the card....
On the Grow was the first stamp set from the Summer Mini that I put together and played with! I stamped the image in Black Stazon ink and used a Baja Breeze watercolor crayon to lightly tint the jar. After it dried, I covered it with Crystal Effects to make the jar pop.

Supplies: On the Grow stamp set; Rose Red, Whisper White & Pink Pirouette card stock; Corner Rounder and Eyelet Border punches; white satin ribbon; Water Color Wonder crayons and Aquapainters; Rose Red Classic Ink; Crystal Effects

Summer Mini Catalog

2011-05-13T13:32:00.002-04:00

I am loving the Summer Mini Catalog! There are a lot of fresh, cute sets! This "Hello" card is just the beginning! I am using a new photo software, however, and the colors are very distorted. Clearly I need to keep working with it.

Supplies: Hello Blossoms stamp set; Baja Breeze, Whisper White and Rose Red card stock (see what I mean???), Pumkin Pie, Rich Razzleberry, Baja Breeze, Rose Red, Daffodil Delight & Garden Green Stampin' Write Markers, Beautiful Wings Embosslit (the butterfly is Pumpkin Pie), Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, Paper Crimper, Stampin' Dimensionals

Sneak Peek!

2011-03-16T10:03:00.002-04:00

Stampin' Up! is giving all of us a sneak peek of a stamp set (Four Frames) and Designer Series Paper (Paisley Petals) that will be in the Idea Book & Catalog that will begin in July. I pre-ordered them and have been playing with them a bit so I thought I would share.

Customers can order them during the month of April in a purchase of $20 or more. Hostesses can get them FREE with a workshop of $350 or more!

Supplies: Four Frames & Teen Tiny Wishes stamp sets; Paisley Petal dsp; Bravo Burgundy & River Rock card stock; Bravo Burgundy Classic Ink; Antique Brads

Savoring Chocolate & Friends....

2011-03-06T11:44:00.002-05:00

...is the theme of an upcoming Woman's Retreat at one of the churches in our cluster. So what better to give everyone some chocolate to nibble on throughout the day! One of the other planning committee members came over the other day to help me make these. We made 26 boxes using the Bitty Box & Envelope Sizzix Die (item #115967) and 26 bags and toppers (die cut with the Top Note die, item #113463). We stamped the greeting for both the box and the bag on Very Vanilla card stock with Early Espresso Classic Ink and the Eat Chocolate stamp set from the Occasions Mini, then punched out with the 1 3/4" circle punch. These were adhered to coordinating card stock punched with the 2 3/8" Scallop Circle punch.

Shabby Chic "For You" card

2011-03-05T13:37:00.002-05:00

Shabby Chic or Vintage is still one of my favorite styles! We have so many new stamps and accessories that make it so easy to create this look!

Supplies: Cake Crumb, Natural Ivory & Always Artichoke card stock; Cake Crumb & Always Artichoke Classic Ink & Seam Binding; First Edition Specialty Designer Series Paper; Trinket Keys; Clearly For You & Artistic Etchings stamp sets

Spring Basket

2011-03-04T11:20:00.002-05:00

This was a project we made at Hostess Club last month. I wanted to make sure it was sturdy enough to be used for treats.

Directions:
1. Using the Baskets & Blooms Sixxiz Die, cut both basket pieces out of designer series paper.
2. Trim off the perforated edge on both pieces.
3. Trim just enough off of the bottom of each piece so that they are straight.
4. Score an 8" x 3.5" piece of coordinating card stock at 2.5" and 5.5".
Turn and score at 1" and 2.5"
5. Cut at the 2.5" and 5.5" up to the long score line on both sides of the card stock.
Fold along all score lines.
6. Place Sticky Strip along all of the edges of the box. Fold up the sides and adhere the basket pieces to box.
7. Embellish as desired.

I Love Flowers!

2011-03-03T17:45:00.002-05:00

I am so looking forward to warmer weather and all the beautiful flowers that will be blooming! I thought it would be fun to bring some flowers into bloom now so we made these magnets last night at Hostess Club! The Magnet Sheets (Item # 119816) were die cut with designer series paper using the new Fun Flowers L Bigz Die (Item #121812) from the Occasions Mini. Embellish them any way you like!

Leadership Display Project

2011-02-25T08:47:00.002-05:00

I finally got around to downloading my photos from Leadership and was going through the photos to sort them. This project caught my eye. It uses several of my favorite things from the Occasions Mini Catalog.

Supplies: Not Quite Navy, Baja Breeze and Whisper White card stock; Not Quite Navy Classic Ink; Baby Blossoms & Fabulous Phrases stamp sets; Wide Oval Punch; Vintage Flower Adornments; Springtime Vintage Designer Fabric; Baja Breeze 1/2" Seam Binding

Sale-A-Bration

2011-02-23T10:39:00.002-05:00

We are in the middle of Stampin' Up!'s annual Sale-A-Bration! I just love all of the FREE stamps and accessories we can earn! And I just love, love, love giving away FREE stuff!!! I still have a few dates available in March for workshops! It's always fun to get together with friends and stamp!

Supplies: Melon Mambo & Daffodil Delight card stock, Melon Mambo Classic Ink; Scallop Trim Border Punch, Ice Cream Parlor designer series paper, ribbon and So Happy for You stamp set (Sale-A-Bration Products!)

Another Sympathy card

2011-02-22T10:34:00.002-05:00

As I mentioned yesterday, I have had to make several sympathy cards over the past week. I'm ready to not have to make any for awhile! I promise my next post will be for a happier occasion!

Supplies: Early Espresso, Very Vanilla & Garden Green card stock; Garden Green Classic Ink; Garden Green and Early Espresso markers; Early Espresso 1/4" grosgrain ribbon; Ticket Corner, Wide Oval and Large Oval punches; Woodland Walk designer series paper; Thoughts & Prayers

I'm Back...Take 2!

2011-02-21T12:11:00.003-05:00

Hello! I was so excited at Leadership - I couldn't wait to come home and post projects and share everything I learned! Unfortunately, I came home ill and ended up with Bronchitis that laid me up for several weeks. My father ended up in and out of the hospital a couple of times as well with some cardiac issues. Both of us are back on our feet and doing much better! Thanks for all of your prayers and good wishes.

OK...back to business! It's unfortunate that the first project I am posting is a sympathy card. I've had to send out several this past week.

Supplies: Rose Red, Basic Black and Whisper White card stock; Black Stazon & Rose Red Classic Ink; Baroque Motifs & Teeny Tiny Wishes; Word Window, Modern Label & Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border punches; Vanilla Rosettes colored with Rose Red Marker

Leadership Gifts

2011-01-16T11:18:00.002-05:00

One of the traditions of going to a Stampin' Up! event is taking small handmade gifts for your roommates, downline, upline, etc. This year I had picked up some small items that had cupcakes on them so decided to use the Build a Cupcake punch. I crimped some Chocolate Chip card stock for the paper cups and coordinated the colors of the circles and the "sparkles" on the cupcake icing with the colors of the gifts inside the bag. And of course, put some chocolate truffles in as well

Leadership was absolutely fantastic! I can't wait to share with you! Make sure to check back in throughout the week!

Leadership Swap Card

2011-01-11T22:26:00.002-05:00

We are leaving in the morning for Nashville and am finishing up these for my swap. It may be a bit of a late night!!

Supplies: Very Vanilla, Always Artichoke & Baja Breeze card stock; Baja Breeze and Always Artichoke Classic Ink; Springtime Vintage DSP; Seam Binding; Glass Glitter; Pearls; Versamark & Clear Embossing Powder; Curly Label Punch; Baby Blossoms & Bliss stamp sets.

More Springtime Vintage Designer Series Paper!

2011-01-10T12:15:00.002-05:00

Here is another sample using the Springtime Vintage dsp and Baby Blossoms stamp set. I am leaving for Nashville for Leadership on Wednesday and will post my swap card before I leave. I am looking forward to getting together with some of my downline, my daughter and my stamping friends for some Nashville fun!!!!

Supplies: Rose Red, Pear Pizazz & Very Vanilla card stock, Baby Blossoms and Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp sets: Rose Red and Pear Pizazz Classic Ink; XL Decorative Label Punch; 2-Way Glue Pen and Dazzling Diamonds Glitter; Linen Thread; Springtime Vintage dsp and Big Designer Buttons.

Springtime Vintage Designer Series Paper

2011-01-08T17:22:00.002-05:00

I am in love with the this designer series paper! I have just about used up my first package! Good thing more is on the way! It coordinates with the Baby Blossoms stamp set.

Supplies: Rose Red & Very Vanilla card stock; Springtime Vintage dsp; Crochet Trim; Rose Red and Always Artichoke Classic Ink; Framed Tulips Textured Impressions Embossing Folder; Baby Blossoms & Create a Cupcake (greeting) stamp sets

Love this idea!

2011-01-07T10:20:00.003-05:00

We made this Valentine card at Hostess Club this week. To make this project, seal up a medium envelope and punch one end with the Scallop Edge Border punch. Stamp and embellish as desired. It's hard to see in the photo but for the inside piece, I used a 4" x 5 1/4" piece of card stock, adhered some hearts punched with the Heart to Heart punch on the left side, then ran the piece through the Big Shot with the Square Lattice embossing folder. It looks like the hearts are part of the card stock.

Supplies: Naturals Ivory Meduim envelope and card stock; Real Red Classic Ink, card stock and 1/4" Grosgrain ribbon; Scallop Border, Modern Label, Word Window, Heart to Heart, Heart Small and Round Tab punches; Teeny Tiny Wishes & I {Heart} Heart stamp sets.

Happy New Year!!

2011-01-06T15:18:00.005-05:00

My New Year's resolution is to . . . post more often!! Another episode of Where's Susan? has ended!

I hope all of you have had a wonderful memory filled Christmas and New Year with your family and friends! Another year has begun and with it, a new Occasions Mini catalog, filled with absolutely fabulous stamps and accessories! I have been playing with some of the new items, including this new Sizzix Petal Cone Bigz die.

After die cutting the Very Vanilla card stock, I ran the pieces through the Perfect Polka Dots embossing folder to give it some texture. The scalloped pieces were die cut using the Springtime Vintage designer series paper.

If you have not received our copy of the Occasions Mini catalog, please let me know and I will get one out to you!

Gift Ideas

2010-12-01T14:21:00.003-05:00

It's hard to believe Christmas is just a few weeks away! Need some ideas for some gifts? I saw this at Convention and Barb reminded us again at our downline meeting a couple of weeks ago. One package of Candy Cane Christmas Decor Elements (Holiday Mini Catalog - $14.95) will make up into 10 - 12 gifts! They are are available in Old Olive or Real Red.

Purchase these from my on-line store

The Finishing Touch!

2010-11-28T12:23:00.002-05:00

I will still try and post a few things while we are gone and will post more photos in a day or so. I thought since many of you are shopping and some of you are even wrapping gifts, I would share some ideas for some cute gift tags.

These were made with the Tags Til Christmas set and the XL Decorative Label Punch. Colors are Riding Hood Red, Old Olive and Whisper White.

OK! We are heading to a black sand beach to snorkel, then heading to Oahu this afternoon!

Aloha! We have arrived!

2010-11-27T10:34:00.002-05:00

After many hours of traveling, we arrived on the Big Island! After we checked into our hotel, we grabbed a bite to eat and took some drinks down to the beach. Even though it was cloudy, the sunset was beautiful!

There is a small lagoon along the path to the beach. Shortly after my husband took this photo, a couple were married as the sun was setting!

Don't forget to check out my on-line store for the fantastic on-line sale from Stampin' Up!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T11:59:00.002-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday! My husband and I are leaving tomorrow morning for Hawaii! I have not been to Hawaii and I cannot wait!! I will try and post some photos while we are there!

Meanwhile....here is a card I made for a wedding we went to recently. I used the 5 Petal Flower punch technique to make the flowers (See earlier post). I used the swirl stamp from Baroque Motif with Blushing Bride card stock, ink and Glimmer Brads.

Tis' the Season

2010-11-23T09:43:00.004-05:00

Tis' the season for making and sending Christmas cards! With fewer cards being sent, hand made cards are truly a gift from the sender!

Supplies: Cherry Cobbler, Cake Crumb & Very Vanilla card stock; Black Stazon, Always Artichoke & Cherry Cobbler ink; Cherry Cobbler markers; Deck the Halls fabric; Antique Brads; Peaceful Season (hostess set from the Holiday Mini) and Christmas Greetings stamp sets; Aqua Painters.

Ready...Get Set...SHOP!

2010-11-23T09:33:00.002-05:00

Once again, Stampin' Up is offering a fantastic sale! From now until November 30th you can shop from my On-Line Store! Some items are 50% off (like the My Digital Studio!). Click here to see a list of what is on sale! These items can only be purchased on-line! (Note: When viewing the bundles in the Online Store, click "More Images" to see photos of the other products in the bundle)

Plus, get FREE Shipping on any online order over $150 (before tax and shipping)!

Happy Shopping!!!!

Pointsettia Card

2010-11-22T22:58:00.002-05:00

The flower on this card is made with the 5 Petal Flower Punch. The technique for this was a Main Stage presentation by Pam Morgan at Convention last July. To make the Pointsettia, punch two flowers out of card stock. Spritz them with water and crumple them, then un-crumple them. Using your fingers, mold them to create the crease. Allow to dry. Adhere together with a Glimmer Brad. I adhered the flower to the card with a Stampin' Dimensional. The top of the card is embossed with the Petals-a-Plenty Embossing Folder.

Happy Holidays!

2010-11-21T11:58:00.002-05:00

It's hard to believe that Christmas will be here in just a little over 4 weeks! I've barely begun shopping! One good thing is that my workshops have been all about Christmas cards so I should be ready to mail cards in a few weeks!

This was one of our club projects this month. It's a different size card - 5 1/4 by 5 1/4 that fits into our 5 1/2 x 5 1/2 inch square envelopes.

Supplies: Blushing Bride, Baja Breeze, Garden Green & Whisper White card stock; Candy Cane Christmas designer series paper & Fabric; Candy Cane Big Designer Buttons; Linen Thread; Scallop Square Bigz Sizzix Die; Big on Christmas stamp set; Blushing Bride, Baja Breeze & More Mustard markers; Black Stazon Ink; Aqua Painter and Garden Green Classic Ink; Mini Glue Dots.

Anna's Baptism

2010-11-09T13:46:00.003-05:00

Our youngest granddaughter, Anna Rose, was baptized yesterday. She looked beautiful in her Christening gown. This gown as become a family heirloom. My sister-in-law, Kathy, made it for our oldest. All four of our children, 3 nieces and nephews and 6 of our 8 grandchildren wore it for their baptisms.

Jim, Anna & Julie

So of course I had to make cards for her! I made the first card for my parents to give her. I used Very Vanilla and Pink Pirouette card stock and the cross was made using the Basic Pearls set on an oval from the Ovals Sizzix Die. The bow was made with the Very Vanilla seam binding.

I had originally made another card for us to give her but my husband thought it didn't look like a Baptism card so I headed down to my studio very late the night before we left. While I am not totally pleased with the finished card, I liked the cross element so thought I would share it. I used the Lattice Die and cut out the cross with Whisper White card stock. The cross was covered with Versamark and embossed with Iridescent Ice embossing powder.

Money Holder

2010-10-26T10:14:00.002-04:00

I received something like this at Convention last summer and thought it was such a cute idea! It's very easy and quick to make.

Supplies: Night of Navy, Marina Mist and Whisper White card stock; Serene Snowflake & A Cardinal Christmas stamp sets: Ornament Punch and 1 1/4" and 1" Circle Punches; Night of Navy & Marina Mist Classic Ink pads; Square Lattice embossing folder & the Big Shot; Basic Rhinestone jewels; Sticky Strip & Stampin' Dimensionals.

1. Score 6" x 9" piece of card stock at 3" & 6".
2. Fold one end up and trim 1/4" off (see 2nd photo)
3. Using the 1 1/4" Circle Punch, punch a notch in the end that was trimmed.
4. Use Sticky Strip on the edges of the trimmed piece to form the pocket.
5. Punch a 1" circle in a scrap of Night of Navy. Center the Ornament Punch around the hole and punch out an ornament.
6. Stamp a snowflake in Marina Mist on a scrap of Whisper White card stock. Punch out with the 1 1 /4" Circle Punch.
7. Adhere the snowflake to the ornament with Stampin' Dimensionals. (I cut one dimensional in half and put one half on either side of the ornament)
8. Stamp "Merry Christmas" in Night of Navy on the right side of the 2" x 2 1/4" piece of Whisper White card stock. Adhere ornament to the left side. Place rhinestone in center of the snowflake.
9. Run the 5" x 2 1/4" piece of Marina Mist card stock through the Big Shot with the Square Lattice embossing folder.
10. Assemble as shown. I used Sticky Strip to adhere all of the pieces together. It holds well with the textured card stock.

Holiday Bundle Promotion!

2010-10-18T13:11:00.004-04:00

From October 19 through December 16th, you can save 20% on product for the Holidays!
Vintage Christmas Card Bundle
Bells & Boughs set & Deck the Halls designer series paper (DSP)
wood-mount #124067 - $23.92; clear-mount #12408 - $19.72

Contempo Christmas Card Bundle
Contempo Christmas set & Holly Jolly dsp
wood-mount #124071 - $20.72; clear-mount #124072 - $17.52

Tags Til Christmas Bundle
Tags Til Christmas set & Decorative Label Punch
wood-mount #124077 - $38.32; clear-mount #124078 - $31.92

Gift Packaging Bundle
Gifted set and Mini Lunch Sacks
wood-mount #124083 - $26.32; clear-mount #124084 - $19.92

Simply Adorned Gift Bundle
Charming Set, Simply Adorned 1" x 1 1/4" charm & 24" Simply Adorned chain
#124076 - $39.88

Frame Gift Bundle
Definitely Decorative Chunky Frame & Small Chocolate Chip Dotted Flourish Decor Elements
#124075 - $19.92

You can shop purchase these bundles through my on-line store at www.susanlacroix.stampinup.net or you can e-mail me at susan@la-croix.net or call me at 734-285-2116 and I would be happy to place your order for you!

Joyful Season Letterpress Plate

2010-10-14T10:34:00.002-04:00

We made this card at our last Sparkler Downline meeting. Using the Letterpress takes a little getting used to but I really like the clean lines and the de-bossed look of this card.

Supplies: Cherry Cobbler, Naturals Ivory card stock; Cherry Cobbler & Garden Green craft ink (I used Stampin' Spots); Regals Patterns DSP Pack (Garden Green); Real Red 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon; Joyful Season Letterpress Plate, Dotto temporary adhesive & the Sizzix Big Shot.

It is recommended that you use a temporary adhesive and adhere the card stock to the cutting plate to keep it from sliding when going through the Big Shot.

Tunnel Card

2010-10-13T09:50:00.002-04:00

I saw a sample of this card on my daughter's blog. She found it on someone's blog but the originator of this design is unknown. It's much easier than it looks!

Supplies: Very Vanilla, Pear Pizazz and Peach Parfait card stock; Pear Pizazz and Peach Parfait Classic Ink; 1 3/4" Circle, Modern Label and Word Window punches; Just Believe stamp set

1. Fold Very Vanilla in half.
2. Fold Pear Pizazz in half and then fold each side back to form a "W".
3. Punch Circle in the Pear Pizazz piece and stamp greeting onto the white, through the "hole".
4. Adhere both sides of the Pear Pizazz to the Very Vanilla card stock.
5. Stamp front of card and embellish as desired.

The folded card will be somewhat bulky so it's best to put your design element on the front of the card on the left side.

Bells & Boughs

2010-10-11T16:18:00.002-04:00

Have I mentioned before how much I love this Holiday Mini catalog??? As soon as I saw the Bells and Boughs stamp set I knew I would use it for the Holiday Mini Swaps I participated in!

Supplies: Bells & Boughs stamp set; Metallic Gold Waffle Paper; Champagne Glass Glitter' Always Artichoke & Naturals Ivory card stock; Always Artichoke Seam Binding and Marker; Cake Crumb Marker; Versamark and gold embossing powder.

Stampin' Up will be offering a Bells & Boughs and the Deck the Halls DSP bundle as part of a special that will be available in about a week - more information coming soon!

Spooky Things

2010-10-10T12:07:00.002-04:00

With the exception of carving pumpkins, I usually do not decorate much for Halloween. But when I saw these the Spooky Things and Black Flourish Designer Jewels at Convention, I knew that I would be decorating this year! All of the Stampin' Up! product is from the Holiday Mini Catalog.

I just loved the idea of decorating white pumpkins! This project was a stage presentation. The person demonstrating had painted orange pumpkins white but I was able to find white pumpkins at one of the box stores. There are several designs on the Decor Elements sheet so you can get a lot of projects out of it. I cut apart the Trick or Treat for the pumpkins and embellished with the Black Flourish Designer Jewels and Raven Lace Trim.

I applied the 3 spiders to the glass pumpkin jar and will use the bats and Happy Halloween on a front window.

You can order these from my on-line store at www.susanlacroix.stampinup.net. While you are there, check out the Clearance Rack! Hundreds of new items have been added - some are 80% off!!

Another September birthday card!

2010-10-06T10:00:00.002-04:00

Our grandson, Thomas, turned 7 a couple of weeks ago. This is the card I made for him. I am so glad we now have white brads!

Supplies: Marine Mist, Early Espresso and Whisper White card stock; Early Espresso and Marine Mist Ink; Every Little Bit, Party This Way stamp sets; Modern Label and Word Window punches; Neutrals Brads; Scallop Rectangle Clearlit & the Big Shot.

September Birthdays

2010-10-05T07:37:00.002-04:00

We have quite a few September birthdays in our family. And several of the guys love to golf. I was thrilled to see this stamp, On the Green in the Idea Book & Catalog (page 19). This is one of the first stamps I bought from this catalog. Here is the card we sent our son-in-law, Josh.

Supplies: Old Olive, Early Espresso, Whisper White card stock; On the Green & Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp sets; Modern Label & Word Window punches; Neutrals Patterns DSP Stack; Early Espresso Classic Ink.

It's been a l-o-n-g time!

2010-10-04T12:28:00.002-04:00

It's been a couple of months since I have posted anything! After dealing with a corrupt file on Picasa, I just didn't get back into the groove of posting! I have lot's of projects photographed and ready to post!

We made this "Witch Way is the Candy" card at Hostess Club last month. I just love, love, love the Holiday Mini this year! It is loaded with all kinds of fun things!

Supplies: Rich Razzleberry, Cajun Craze and Whisper White card stock; Wicked Fun Specialty DSP; Modern Label, Word wWindow & Ticket Corner punches; Black Stazon Ink, Basic Black, Rich Razzleberry, Cajun Craze, Old Olive and Daffodil Delight markers.

These next two cards are part of the Christmas Card Class we are doing on October 25 - with the exception of Dasher, all of the stamps and DSP is from the Holiday Mini!

Altered Pencil Case

2010-08-06T16:25:00.002-04:00

One of my downline, Angie shared this idea with me. I thought it would be a great Hostess Club project. Quite a few of these talented ladies attend craft nights at their church or other locations. This is a perfect place to keep those small items together and not falling to the bottom of a bag or case. Of course it could be used for other things....

Just Believe Make & Take

2010-07-29T23:03:00.002-04:00

We made this card at Convention this year. I think this is going to be one of my favorite stamp sets! We used a circle template made with the Big Shot and Circle's #2 die and sponged color into the circle, then stamped the image and greeting.

Altered Notebooks

2010-07-28T12:39:00.002-04:00

One of the traditions of Convention is making gifts for those who attend Convention with you (especially your downline). This year, two of my fabulous Sparklers - Gloria and Nancy - attended with me.

Susan, Gloria and Nancy

Along with the Bag Tag and posted several days ago, I made these altered note books for them. I used Pear Pizazz card stock and In Color Prints DSP on Gloria's and Poppy Parade, Daffodil Delight and Sunny Garden DSP on Nancy's. I die cut their initials with the Serif Essentials alphabet and the Big Shot.

Make & Take Project #2

2010-07-27T15:32:00.002-04:00

This cute little pouch can be used for lots of little goodies tucked inside it. We made 6 of these tiny cards to put in a cello bag. This project features the Just Believe stamp set, Pear Pizazz, Daffodil Delight and Pumpkin Pie inks and cardstock.

From today through August 31, Hostesses can earn an additional $25 in FREE product! Simply host a workshop or a book party totaling $350 or more! I still have available dates in August!

Make & Takes

2010-07-26T14:59:00.003-04:00

I'm sitting in the hospital surgery waiting room with my dad. We've spoken with the physicians who operated on my mom and she has been taken to recovery. We are all breathing a huge sigh of relief - the surgery went well and no further treatment is expected! So thank you for all of your prayers and good wishes!

While we have been waiting, I was scrolling through my hundreds of photos from Convention and came across the photos of the projects we made so thought I would take the opportunity to post.

Supplies used: Not Quite Navy and Bashful Blue card stock; watercolor paper; Old Olive, Pear Pizazz, Not Quite Navy and Bashful Blue markers; Old Olive Satin Ribbon, Button.

Color the stamp with markers and lightly spritz with water. Stamp onto watercolor paper. Allow to dry. Stamp greeting, tear watercolor paper and Bashful Blue card stock as shown. Adhere ribbon and button to bottom and then adhere this piece to Not Quite Navy card. Stamp envelope.

The Story

2010-07-25T00:34:00.001-04:00

This quick and easy scrap book page was made with the Newsprint DSP. I used the "The Story" sheet and trimmed it down a bit and mounted it on a sheet of 12" x 12" Basic Black card stock and mounted the photos on Basic Black card stock as well. The Hydrangea is from the Level 1 Hostess set Because I Care.

Owl Punch

2010-07-24T05:04:00.002-04:00

One of the new punches in the Idea Book and Catalog is this Owl Punch. Isn't he cute? Angie made this owl card for our Open House Display board. I liked him so much I CASE'd him for our Convention bag tags.

Supplies: Baja Breeze, Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla card stock; 2 Step Owl Punch, 2 Step Bird Punch, Ribbon Border punch; Chocolate Chip Classic Ink and Elegant Soiree DSP.

Speaking of Convention, this is the last day. It's hard to believe! It always goes by so fast! I'll post the make and takes during the next week.

Hostess Club Project

2010-07-23T19:49:00.002-04:00

One of our projects this month was making a note card set. The first photo is the note card holder using Pear Pizazz card stock and ribbon and Greenhouse Gala DSP. We colored the images of the stamps with markers.

We filled the note card holder with four stamped noted cards and envelopes (sold in a set of 20 for $5.95). We trimmed 1/4" off of the front of the card and adhered a strip of the DSP to the inside so it peeks out.

Flower Power!

2010-07-22T08:25:00.002-04:00

Last night we attended the Power Flower Party at Convention! We always have a great time and this was no exception! We were told to wear our best flowers so we decided to do a flower swap. 18 of us made wearable flowers of some kind - pins, rings, bracelets. The first photo is my swap.

These were really easy to make! You will need to use a polyester fabric of some kind (I used a polyester satin). Die cut circles with the Circles #2 Sizzix Die. There are 4 different sizes of circles. I used 2 of each size and layered them. I used our Rhinestone brads for the center (hint: put the brad through each layer - it's easier, especially with more slippery fabrics). Spread the wings of the brad. Using your heat tool, heat up the circles until they start to curl. You will need to play around with how much you want the flowers to curl up. Please be careful - these will get hot! Use something to hold the flower down on the table.

Each year our fearless leader, Kim, gives us a green hat that goes along with the theme of Convention. With the thousands of demonstrators that attend Convention, wearing a funky hat of some kind makes it easier to find each other! This year, our hats were the perfect place for pins!

Sweet Life

2010-07-21T16:58:00.002-04:00

One of the stamping events I held last week was an Open House for new Idea Book & Catalog. We always make samples of new stamps and accessories to give you even more ideas. Angie made this sweet card with the new Aviary stamp set. How cute is this ?!?!

Supplies used: Concord Crush (new In-Color) and Whisper White card stock; Lap of Luxury DSP; Word Window and Modern Label punches; Versamark and Gold Embossing Powder; Concord Crush and Marine Mist Classic Ink.

Convention Time!

2010-07-20T16:36:00.003-04:00

The last couple of weeks have been painfully busy....my mom has been diagnosed with uterine cancer so we have had several doctor's appointments to begin the treatment process. (Please keep her in your prayers as she undergoes a hysterectomy later next week. Hopefully she will need minimum followup of any kind). Toss in a root canal for an abscessed molar, a couple of Stamping events and getting ready for Convention and time just flies.....(wah - wah - wha).

But....here I am in Salt Lake City! We arrived this afternoon and check in starts tomorrow morning! I can't wait to share the things I will be learning with you! In the meantime, I took of photos of projects I have been working on so I am hoping to be back at posting more frequently!! I thought I would share my Convention swap card. I love that there are more "toys" in the new catalog to create vintage style projects!

Supplies used: Soft Suede and Naturals Ivory card stock; Newsprint DSP; Vintage Vogue stamp set; Antique Brads and brass metallic brads; Crochet Lace Trim; Distressing Essentials kit; Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder & the Sizzix Big Shot.

C.A.S.E. (Copy And Share Everything)

2010-07-07T12:14:00.004-04:00

I just love all of the samples in the catalog! If you ever need inspiration, just open it up and start imagining what your project would look like using that idea! You can change the colors, the stamp set or both! Stampin' Up! encourages and inspires us by providing great reproducible projects! So have fun!

I CASE'd the card on page 70 that uses the Fun & Fast Notes. I changed the colors to Pear Pizazz, Marine Mist & Daffodil Delight!

Printed Petals

2010-07-02T09:27:00.002-04:00

We received this stamp set on the Cruise in May. I made this for our recent downline swap. The flower is embossed with Versamark and Black embossing powder and the smaller flowers are water colored with markers. This stamp set also coordinates well with the Itty Bitty Punch Pack and the new Petite Petals Jumbo Wheel.

Supplies used: Poppy Parade, So Saffron, Basic Black & Very Vanilla card stock; Versamark and Basic Black ink pads; Black embossing powder; Pear Pizazz, Poppy Parade, So Saffron, Baha Breeze and Rich Razzleberry markers; Teeny Tiny Wishes.

Happy Birthday Jim!

2010-07-01T10:52:00.007-04:00

Wow...it has been a couple of weeks since I have posted....it's been a crazy couple of weeks....

A good friend passed away and I was helping his wife (also a great friend) with whatever she needed. Barb how has to acclimate to a whole different lifestyle....please keep her in your prayers.

I was also busy with end of the fiscal year kinds of things...end of one catalog and transitioning to new catalog (which is fabulous!!) along with earning the Cruise to Alaska!!! Yep!!! I made it - and on my birthday to boot!! My daughter, Julie also earned the trip so we are excited!!!!

I have managed to get some (albeit limited) stamping time in. Today's project is the birthday card I made and sent to my son-in-law, Jim.

It features 2 new colors: Early Espresso (one of the new core colors), and Pear Pizazz (one of the
new beautiful In-Colors.

Supplies used: Early Espresso, Pear Pizazz and Very Vanilla card stock; Greenhouse Gala designer series paper; Friends Never Fade & Sincere Salutations stamp set; Early Espresso and Pear Pizazz Classic Ink; Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder and the Sizzix Big Shot; Early Espresso 1/8" taffeta ribbon; sanding block.

I ran a piece of designer series paper through the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder and then used the sanding block to distress the piece and allowing the embossing to pop some white through the design. I used the Rock & Roll technique on the flower image.

Mark Your Favorite Pages in the New Catalog!!

2010-06-13T12:19:00.003-04:00

This cute little bookmark is easy to make and perfect for marking your favorite pages!

Supplies used: Brilliant Blue, Real Red & Whisper White card stock; July 4th stamp set; Real Red Classic Ink; Corner and Border punches.

Fold a 5" x 5" piece of Brilliant Blue card stock in half. Unfold, and fold in half on the opposite side. Cut off one of the squares. Embellish as desired. Fold book mark and adhere 2 of the Brilliant Blue corners together. This will leave a pocket that you can place on the corner of the page.