Nutz about Stamping

How to find color inspiration for your next card

Recently a customer emailed me to ask where I find color inspiration for my cards. I am going to share one of my design tips today! 

In today's video (see the bottom of this blog post), I want to show you how to make a lovely thank you card, but you can change the phrase to make it a birthday card, thinking of you card, friendship card or any other occasion that you need. My card features the Bloom by Bloom stamp set found on page 25 of the Occasions Catalog:

Bloom By Bloom Photopolymer Stamp Set
$17.00

This super cute set has no phrases so combine the images here with phrases from other sets that you love. 

I was inspired for the colors on my card from the Happiness Blooms designer paper:

Happiness Blooms 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper
$11.00

 

This paper has bold and bright florals and patterns, using the following Stampin' Up! colors: Call Me Clover, Calypso Coral, Lovely Lipstick, Night of Navy, and Pineapple Punch. So I chose two of these colors for my card. 

During my video I mention a stamping term: fussy cutting. Basically this means stamping and cutting out images using your paper snips, which is how I created the flower images for my card. A pair of high-quality scissors is a crafters must-have so don't cut costs for this item!

For my card I chose Lovely Lipstick and Pineapple Punch for my focus colors. Here's my card:

Bloom by Bloom greeting card

Supplies

Stamp sets: Bloom by Bloom #148820; Love What You Do #148042

Ink: Pineapple Punch, Lovely Lipstick

Paper and cutting dimensions:
          Whisper White: 8 1/2" x 5 1/2"; 3 3/4" x 5"; three pieces 1 3/4" square (large flowers);
          three pieces 1 1/2" square (small   flowers)

Accessories: SNAIL adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Paper Snips

And as promised, here's how I decorated the inside of my card - using one of the small stamps in the Bloom by Bloom set. 

Would you like to see how I created my card? Here's a video to show you how:

How to create a fun (and easy) thank you card

The card I want to share today was so fun and easy to create, thanks to my Big Shot. I love this tool and use it almost every week to show you a card idea on my YouTube channel.

If you have been following my blog for a few weeks you will also know that I am so in love with the Happiness Blooms card pack. Yes these cards were designed for memory pages but Stampin' Up! titles these projects as Memories & More. One possibility for more is for card making. 

I wanted to create a thank you card for an online order I received last week and so that was my goal. First I found a super cute card in the Happiness Blooms pack which I layered onto Night of Navy:

Happiness Blooms Memories & More Card Pack
$10.00

 

Then I die-cut a Night of Navy 'thanks' using the Well Written dies:

Well Written Framelits Dies
$40.00

I also decided to emboss the Whisper White card base using the Scattered Sequins folder because the pattern reminded me a bit of the flowers on the Happiness Blooms card:

Scattered Sequins Dynamic Textured Impressions Embossing Folder
$10.00

 

I added a Lovely Lipstick bow and two punched flowers using the Bitty Blooms punch pack (LOVE THESE!):

Bitty Blooms Punch Pack
$23.00

and my thank you card was done! 

If you want to order the products I used to make this fun (and easy!) thank you card, click the link to my online store below:

 

 

How to create a colorful card from start to finish

Recently someone emailed me with a request to share how I design a card from start to finish. I am happy to do this and want you to know that you have requests to email them to me too (terri@nutzaboutstamping.com) or to add a comment underneath a blog post with your request. 

When I lack in design inspiration I often look to a card map for ideas. I am a design team member for the Paper Craft Crew and we are given a card map challenge each week, like the one below. Our challenge is to use the materials we have to make a card to match the map and then share our final card idea over on the Paper Craft Crew site. It is really fun to see all the different ideas one simple card map can offer. 

So for today's card I am using the card map above and then I am going to show you my card from start to finish, using photos along the way!

The map above has a swirl image so I looked through my stamp sets and spotted the Beauty Abounds stamp set:

Beauty Abounds Cling Stamp Set
$23.00

I chose the swirl image, stamped it using Memento Tuxedo Black ink and colored the images using three Stampin' Blends: Poppy Parade Light, Daffodil Delight Dark and Granny Apple Green Light:

At this point I decided to use the thank you image from the Stitched All Around set, and to make my card a thank you card. I always make and mail a thank you card to everyone who orders from my online store so this card would suit this purpose. 

Stitched All Around Clear-Mount Stamp Set
$19.00

 

You can change the phrase image to suit the kind of card you need: birthday, friendship, etc. 

After I diecut the layers I decided that that Poppy Parade solid circle was too big for my card front so I chose a somewhat larger circle from my Layering Circles framelits pack and used that instead:

I was much happier with the smaller circle but my next challenge was what to do with that extra strip on the card map. Then it hit me! I could stamp the 'thank you' image a second time on scrap Poppy Parade card stock, cut out the thank you and adhere it on top of the Whisper White circle. 

Worked like a charm:

After my card front was complete, I decided to use Poppy Parade as my card base (I could have also used Daffodil Delight or Granny Apple Green) and adhered the white layer on top. But my card seemed very 'white' and plain. When this happens I turn to my embellishments and spotted the Granny Apple Green Glitter Enamel Dots:

Glitter Enamel Dots
$7.00

The perfect complement to my card so I added three dots for that final touch!

 A few weeks ago someone made a request on my YouTube channel. She asked me to share ideas for what I do on the inside of my cards too. Did I stamp inside? Leave it blank? Do something different? I really appreciated this question because it never occurred to me to share my 'insides'. 

To answer her question, I either stamp the inside: sometimes with words, sometimes with images (see below) or sometimes I add a strip of washi tape or left over designer paper to match the outside. I also stamp something on the envelope as well because I think it adds a bit of excitement and anticipation for the card inside.

Here's the inside of this card - using an image from the Stitched All Around set:

 

 

Why not try this card map too and see what you can create using the supplies you have on hand? Or head here to my online store and add some fun new products to your stamping supplies. Don't forget that Sale-a-bration is now on and you can earn FREE products with your online order!

To thank you for all you do

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! 

I have a special Winter Woods card for you today with a heart-felt sentiment that reflects how grateful I am to have you as customers! I have been a Stampin' Up! demonstrator for 15 years and recognize the abundance this experience has brought to me. 

I appreciate that you support my home business and help me live my dream to be a solopreneur.

I know that today is super busy with cooking, laughing with friends and family and relaxing in a cozy Thanksgiving atmosphere. For those of you who are miles away from your family (like I am), why not spend a little time for you and do a bit of crafting?

Here's one fun idea to create - it teaches you a technique that you can use to make beautiful card backgrounds:

 

Winter Woods thank you card

 

Supplies:

• Stamp Sets: *Winter Woods (147661), Rooted In Nature (146482)
• Card Stock: Whisper White (100730), Pumpkin Pie (105117), Early Espresso
• Stamp Pads: Pear Pizzazz (147104), Early Espresso (147114), Pumpkin Pie (147086), Cajun Craze (147085), Blackberry Bliss (147092), Mango Melody (147093)
• Misc: Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430), Sponge Daubers (133773), 2 1/4” Circle Punch (143720), Stamping Sponge (141337),*Shimmer Paint Frost White (147046), Neutrals Stampin’ Write Markers (147158), Stampin’ Spritzers (126185) NON STAMPIN’ UP: Rubbing Alcohol 
• *These items can be found in the 2018 Holiday Catalog

 

Measurements: 

• Pumpkin Pie Card Stock: 5 1/2” x 8 1/2” scored and folded at 4 1/4”
• Whisper White Card Stock: 4” x 5 1/4” (2 pieces) plus small scrap 1/2” x 5 for banner 
• Early Espresso Card Stock: 4 1/8” x 5 3/8”

 

Instructions: 

1. Score and fold the Pumpkin Pie base at 4 1/4”; attach the Early Espresso panel to the card base.
2. Punch one piece of Whisper White Card Stock with the 2 1/4” Circle Punch slightly to the right and inserted all the way. Lay the punched panel over the remaining Whisper White panel and sponge with Pumpkin Pie ink to create the large sun.
3. Ink the Tree Stand with Mango Melody ink; then remove the ink from the tree trunks with a tissue and color the trunks with the Early Espresso marker.
4. With Sponge Daubers, randomly Cajun Craze and Blackberry Bliss to the tree stand to create “Fall” leaves.
5. “Huff” on the stamp as needed to add moisture and stamp on the Whisper White Panel.
6. Add grass with the Pear Pizzazz ink.
7. Stamp the sentiment on the small piece of Whisper White and snip to create a banner on each end. Add to the card base with Stampin’ Dimensionals.
8. Add some rubbing alcohol to a Stampin’ Spritzer and pour in a small amount of the Frost White Shimmer Paint.  Spritz on the front of the card.

How to create a sweet Thanksgiving table favor

Last Sunday I created a video tutorial and complete set of instructions on how to create a beautiful Thanksgiving table setting - a pouch idea for your silverware. 

Today I have a sweet project to complement your table setting pouch - a Thanksgiving table favor! Think about what fun it would be to sit at your table and see this little treat bag to tempt you until the end of the meal. And you can bet all the children (and young at heart) will love this idea. 

Here's how to make this project:

First, select one of the skinny cellophane bags - the 2" x 8" size would be perfect but there are other sizes to choose from. See page 193 in the Annual Catalog for all your choices. 

2" X 8" (5.1 X 20.3 Cm) Celllophane Bags
$3.50

Step 2: Choose a solid color of card stock to slip into your cellophane bag. It will also be the base for your designer series paper.

My choice was Rich Razzleberry:

Step 3: choose your designer series paper. 

My choice was Country Lane designer series paper because I wanted to coordinate my table favor with my table setting pouch:

Country Lane 12" X 12" (30.5 X 30.5 Cm) Designer Series Paper
$11.00

Step 4: Adhere your designer paper to your solid card stock and slide this strip into your cellophane bag.

 

Step 5: Add two punched tags, using the Everyday Label punch. You can choose the same color as the layer in the bag or you can select a contrasting color. 

Everyday Label Punch
$18.00

Step 6: Now the fun part! Choose your favorite candy to slip into the bag. Seal the bag by peeling of the adhesive cover on the strip. Place one punched image on either side of the sealed bag and hold in place using your stapler. 

Step 7: Stamp a phrase onto a scrap piece of Whisper White card stock. I chose the 'thank you' from the Love What You Do stamp set and die-cut it using my Big Shot and Layering Ovals framelits. 

Love What You Do Photopolymer Stamp Set
$21.00

 When you stamp your image, choose a coordinating ink color or contrasting ink color. 

Step 8: Tie a nice bow around your table favor bag, add a cute embellishment and your project is ready to lay onto your Thanksgiving table!

Are you going to give this idea a try? If not for Thanksgiving, why not for your Christmas table? Click any of the product images above to place your order now so you are ready to craft up a gorgeous holiday table this year!

Here's how to make your Thanksgiving table stunning

In a couple of weeks friends and family may be arriving at your house to celebrate Thanksgiving together and there is a lot to prepare for this big day. Why not let Stampin' Up! (and me!) help you with your table decorations? 

I have the perfect way to make your Thanksgiving table look stunning this year with a table setting cutlery pouch project. And to make your life easy, I created a video tutorial and set of written instructions below for you to download. 

My suggestion is that you create an assembly line of steps for making this pouch a breeze. You can easily create several in no time at all and your guests will be wow when seated at your table. 

The first step to this project is to choose your designer series paper pattern and then coordinate the main pocket color with the colors in the designer paper. Your table will look stunning if use a variety of pocket colors all the way around. 

I chose the Country Lane designer series paper - the coordinating colors in this pack are:

• Blackberry Bliss
• Cajun Craze
• Crushed Curry
• Whisper White
• Mint Macaron
• Early Espresso
• Old Olive

 And for my pocket phrase I decided to use my Labels to Love stamp set which I stamped and die-cut using my Layering Circles framelits. 

Here's my pocket idea:

 Thanksgiving Table Silverware Pocket

Stamp set: Labels to Love (144967)

Markers: Crushed Curry, Blackberry Bliss

Paper and cutting dimensions:
          Country Lane: 2 1/4" x 3"
          Whisper White: 2" square
          Crushed Curry: 2 1/2" x 1 1/5"
          Blackberry Bliss: 7 1/2" x 6"

Other: Big Shot, Magnetic Platform, Layering Circles framelits (141705), Seasonal Layers thinlits (143751), Tear & Tape adhesive, SNAIL adhesive, Stampin' Dimensionals, Simply Scored (122334), Paper Snips, Bone Folder, Coordinating napkins, flatware/plasticware/silverware

Here's my video tutorial - underneath you will find instructions to download! In my video I share lots of other design ideas so make sure you listen all the way through!

Here are step by step instructions for you to download:

1. Cut Blackberry Bliss cardstock - each piece is: 7.5" x 6"
2. Using your Simply Scored, lay cardstock 7.5" horizontal on the scoreboard and score at 0.5" and at 4"
3. Turn Blackberry Bliss cardstock 90 degrees clockwise and score at 1".
4. Cut along the score line at 1" from both edges until you meet a score line.
5. Trim back the edges of the fold back flaps (diagonally) to reduce some bulk.
6. Use a Layering Circle framelit to cut a semi circle from the side of the pocket that has no flaps.  Hint: Place the framelit half on and half off the cardstock to cut the semi-circle.  In order to fit it through the Big Shot, you may have to fold up the flaps on the other side. 
7. Fold in the flap, burnish with your Bone Folder and add Tear & Tape adhesive on flaps. 
8. Fold over the section with the semi circle to complete the pocket.
9. Decorate as desired.

How to say thanks with beautiful swirls and curls

Don't you love when a box from Stampin' Up! arrives on your doorstep? I sure do and was excited to get a brand new embossing folder to craft with this week. 

Introducing: Swirls and Curls (click on the image below to link over to my online store)

Swirls & Curls Textured Impressions Embossing Folder
$7.50

So, of course I had to create a card idea to share with you, and immediately thought of an easy Thanksgiving card layout using my Colorful Seasons and All Things Thanks stamp sets. 

The Colorful Seasons stamp set is my go to for so many seasonal card ideas. I love the leaves for fall cards so chose this stamp and coordinating thinlit in the Seasonal Layers thinlits pack to make die-cutting a breeze. The All Things Thanks set has the perfect phrase for family gatherings - you can make several cards in one go and have them laid out around your Thanksgiving table this year. All you have to do is personalize each one with a special message inside. 

Here's this week's card and video tutorial - don't miss the supplies and instructions below.

Colorful Seasons Thanksgiving card

 

Stamp sets: Colorful Seasons (143726); All Things Thanks (143097)

Ink: Old Olive, Cajun Craze, Pumpkin Pie

Paper and cutting dimensions:
          Crumb Cake: 8 1/2" x 5 1/2"; 3" x 5"; 3" x 2"
          Cajun Craze: 1 3/4" x 2 3/4"
          Very Vanilla: three pieces - 2 1/2" square

Other: Big Shot, Magnetic Platform, Layering Ovals framelits (141706), Swirls and Curls embossing folder (147923), Stampin' Dimensionals, SNAIL adhesive

Here's my video tutorial - thanks for watching!

Gift someone a beautiful autumn with this stunning sunflower

I love fall, don't you? The air is cooler, the trees drop their leaves, and I need to bundle up for my daily walk in the woods. I also find myself turning inward a bit more - thinking of all the people and the things I am grateful for. It is this feeling of abundance that I put into making thank you cards for everyone who orders from me at my online store - one of which I am sharing with you today. 

My go-to stamp set for fall card ideas in the past two years has been the Painted Harvest stamp set. It is a two-step stamping set which means you use different colors to layer the two flower images, one of top of the other. I typically use a lighter color for the larger image and then use a darker color for the smaller image. 

And I absolutely love all the color combinations that can be created with this set and thought you might like to try my favorite combos:

• Crushed Curry, Tangerine Tango, Chocolate Chip
• Crushed Curry, Cajun Craze, Early Espresso
• Crushed Curry, Cherry Cobbler, Chocolate Chip
• Cajun Craze, Cherry Cobbler, Soft Suede
• Crushed Curry, Pumpkin pie, Chocolate Chip
• Pumpkin Pie, Cajun Craze, Early Espresso
• Crumb Cake, Soft Suede, Early Espresso
• Crumb Cake, Cherry Cobbler, Chocolate Chip
• Crushed Curry, Peekaboo Peach, Early Espresso
• Peekaboo Peach, Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Chip
• Daffodil Delight, Crushed Curry, Soft Suede

Do you have other color combos that you love for the Painted Harvest set? If you do, please share them with us in the comments box below!

Here's my Painted Harvest thank you card - complete with the supplies I used and a video tutorial underneath. Can you see which of my favorite color combinations I used for my card?

Painted Harvest thank you

 

Stamp sets: Painted Harvest (144783), Thankful Thoughts (141522)

Ink: Crushed Curry, Cajun Craze, Soft Suede

Paper and cutting dimensions:
          Whisper White: 8 1/2" x 5 1/2"; 3 1/2" square
          Mossy Meadow: 2" x 1 1/4"
          Festive Farmhouse (147820): 5 1/4" x 4"
          Nature's Poem (146338): 1" x 4"
          Mossy Meadow Cotton Twine: 19"

Accessories: Big Shot, Magnetic Platform, Stitched Circles framelits (145372), Festive Farmhouse Cotton Twine (147888), SNAIL adhesive, Stapler

Here's my video - thanks for watching!

          

How to celebrate nature and everything beautiful in it

When was the last time you sent a lovely thank you to someone special if your life? If it has been a while, then I will give you a tip: it feels so good to say thanks!

Two years ago I made a promise to myself: I would hand stamp a thank you card and mail it to every single person who placed an order at my online store. It is the least I can do to show my gratitude to a fellow crafter who is willing to support my home based business. I also tuck some special little product bits inside the envelope as well and then imagine how good it would feel to open a card (instead of a bill, ugh) and see a little extra inside. 

I challenge you to make a mail 5 thank you cards to send to friends and family - just to let them know how grateful you are to know them. To help you with this challenge I have a beautiful and easy Rooted in Nature card idea to share with you today.

Read on after the photo for a complete list of supplies and instructions for making the card. And if you want to place an order for any of these products, click here to link over to my online store. 

Rooted in Nature Thank You card

Supplies: 

• Stamp Sets and Dies – Rooted in Nature (146482); A Big Thank You (147377); Nature’s Roots Framelit Dies (146361)
• Card Stock – Whisper White (100730); Whisper White Thick (140272); Soft Suede (115318)
• Stamp Pads – Soft Suede (147115); Versamark (102283)
• Misc. – Nature’s Poem Designer Series Paper (DSP)  (146338); White Embossing Powder (109132); Embossing Buddy (103083); 5/8” Whisper White Polka Dot Tulle Ribbon (146912); Stamping Sponges (141337); Dimensionals (104430); Banner Triple Punch (138292) ; Heat Tool (129053); Big Shot (143263)

 

Measurements:  

• Whisper White Thick:  8 1/2” x 5 1/2”
• Whisper White:  5 1/2” x 1”  (banner—can use scraps)
• Whisper White scraps for leaves
• Soft Suede: 5 1/4” x 4”   Scraps for leaves
• DSP:  3 3/4" x 5”

 

Instructions:

1. Score your large piece of Whisper White thick at 4 1/4” for the card base.
2. Using Soft Suede ink, stamp leaves using the triple leaf stamp on whisper white.  Use your embossing buddy on the soft suede scraps (for leaves) and then stamp leaves using Versamark on Soft Suede cardstock.  Cover the versamark leaves with white embossing powder; shake off any stray bits of embossing powder (can use a small paintbrush to remove any stray bits) and heat emboss
3. Die cut the leaves using your Big Shot.
4. Sponge Soft Suede ink on both sides of ribbon (about 8 inches).
5. Banner cut the banner piece of Whisper White.
6. Stamp the sentiment on the banner piece of Whisper White using Soft Suede ink  near the “v” of the banner.  Trim the banner to 3 1/8”.
7. Attach the white leaves to the ends of the banner underneath with snail or glue dots.  Attach the soft suede embossed leaves to the top of the banner.
8. Tie the sponged ribbon into a bow and attach to the banner over the leaf stem.
9. Using dimensionals, attach the banner to the card front.

Do you know the clear block stamping technique?

I love teaching you fun stamping techniques and today's card features the clear block stamping technique. Have you tried this technique before? If you have, add a comment under the card to tell me: Yes! And if you love this technique too, add a second YES! to your comment. 

This technique is an oldie but a goodie as it adds a subtle and interesting background feature on a card. The key is to use a light ink color - like the subtles collection or lighter tones in the neutrals collection. 

Another thing you need to be aware of, is that you shouldn't worry about precise inking and stamping - this technique is supposed to look imprecise so roll with the look!

The card below uses the Country Home stamp set: a set inspired by a beautiful fall in the countryside. Dried flowers, rustic jugs—just the setting to sit still for a moment and be grateful. I love the phrases and images in this set; there are so many possible uses which makes it a great value for your dollar. 

Notice the simplicity of this card - only one section colored, coordinating designer paper, the subtle Crumb Cake layer, and the perfect embellishment as a final touch - one that adds sophistication without drawing your eyes away from the main image. 

Don't miss a full set of instructions and supplies list under the card. Instruction #4 will show you how to do the clear block stamping technique. My advice is to try this a few times on scrap paper until you are happy with how it looks.

Leave a comment under this post to tell me if you are going to give this card a try. If you don't have the supplies to make it and want to add them to your collection, click here to link over to my online store!

Country Home thank you card

 

Supplies: 

• Stamp Sets – Country Home (147678)
• Card Stock – Crushed Curry (131199); Crumb Cake (120953); Whisper White (100730)
• Stamp Pads – Tuxedo Black Memento (132708); Crumb Cake (147116)
• Misc. – Country Lane Designer Paper (147804); Clear Block D (118485); Basic Black Stampin’ Write Marker (100082); 3/16” Braided Linen Thread (147808); Galvanized Buttons (147891); Dark Daffodil Delight Stampin’ Blends (144585); Stampin’ Dimensionals (104430); Glue Dots (103683)

 

Measurements:  

• Crushed Curry (base): 5 ½” x 8 ½”, scored at 4 ¼”
• Crumb Cake: 4” x 5 ¼”
• Whisper White: 3 7/8” x 5 1/8”
• Whisper White: 4” x 4”
• Designer Paper: 2” x 3 7/8”
• Braided Linen Thread: 4 ½” and 7” 

 

Instructions:

1. Ink the word “thankful” as part of the greeting stamp using the Basic Black marker. Stamp the word in the lower right corner of the designer paper. 
2. Adhere the designer paper to the lower portion of the Whisper White 3 7/8” x 5 1/8” cardstock. Adhere this layer to the Crumb Cake layer.
3. Place a Glue Dot on each end of the 4 ½” piece of Braided Linen Thread. Adhere the thread along the top edge of the designer paper, securing the raw ends to the backside.
4. Ink the Clear Block D using the Crumb Cake ink. Stamp off one layer of ink on scratch paper to reduce the shade. Stamp the block on the 4” x 4” piece of Whisper White cardstock. 
5. Stamp the cattail image using Memento ink in the center of the Crumb Cake block. Trim around the stamped image using your scissors. 
6. Color in the two cattails using the Stampin’ Blends. 
7. Adhere the stamped image to the upper portion of the Whisper White layer using Dimensionals. 
8. Adhere the Galvanized Button using Glue Dots to the right side of the horizontal Braided Linen Trim. Create a single loop bow using the 7” piece of Braided Linen Trim. Adhere it over the button holes using a Glue Dot.

Introducing exciting details to make an amazing card

This week's Paper Craft Crew card map looks simple enough but check out all the exciting details that will make your card amazing:

• The scallop border
• The layers under the circle
• The layers on top of the circle
• The bow
• The pearls/dots

I had so much fun choosing what I would use for my card. When I spotted the washi tape looking strip on the card map I immediately decided on my Best Route product suite. I chose the main card layer from the Best Route designer paper, the Best Route washi tape, and the Blueberry Bliss ribbon. 

After those decisions were made the rest was easy. All I had to do was coordinate with the paper colors: Mango Melody, Blueberry Bliss, Whisper White and Gray Granite. 

For the phrase I decided to change things up a little. I made the circle layer a thank you phrase instead of the banners because I needed to make a thank you card to send to someone who placed an online order last week. So I went with my All Things Thanks  stamp set for the phrase. 

Here's the card map - click here to see what other craft crew members created using the same layout. 

Here are some of the products I used - you can click on any of the small photos to place an order at my online store:

Best Route Washi Tape
$5.50

Best Route Designer Series Paper
$11.00

All Things Thanks Clear-Mount Stamp Set
$19.00

 

 Here's my All Things Thanks card - what will YOU create using our card map?

Learn how to create a stunning textured card base

I usually share card ideas that are simple but beautiful, through my design and layout choices. But today I want to show you how to take a lovely card idea and make it stunning by creating a textured card base. 

I make it a business practice to send a thank you card to every person who places an order through my online store. I so appreciate those of you who support my home based business and I show my appreciation by this little gesture.

Today's Better Together thank you card was created using the amazing (and VERY popular) Tin Tile embossing folder, and Colorful Seasons stamp set. You can click on any of the product photos below to link over to my online store:

Better Together Clear-Mount Stamp Set
$37.00

Colorful Seasons Photopolymer Stamp Set
$27.00

Tin Tile Dynamic Textured Impressions Embossing Folder
$10.00

Seasonal Layers Thinlits Dies
$33.00

Nature's Poem Designer Series Paper
$11.00

Labels To Love Clear-Mount Stamp Set
$21.00

 

I have created a series of YouTube videos showing you the versatility of the Better Together stamp set. So far I have a baby card, a wedding card, and a birthday card. I love this set and feel it is such a great bargain for so many card ideas.

Click here to head over to my YouTube channel and check them all out! Leave me a message below telling me which Better Together card you love best. 

 

Better Together thank you card 

 

Supplies: 

• Stamp Sets – Better Together (141736), Colorful Seasons (143726), Labels to Love (144967)
• Card Stock – Very Vanilla (101650), Soft Suede (115318), Nature’s Poem designer series paper (146338)
• Ink - Soft Suede (147115), Old Olive (147090), Cajun Craze (147085)
• Stampin’ Write Markers: Soft Suede (147158), Old Olive (147155), Cajun Craze (147155)
• Misc. – SNAIL Adhesive (104332), Big Shot (143263), Layering Circles framelits (141705), Mini Stampin’ Dimensionals (104108), Tin Tile Dynamic Impressions embossing folder (147906), Seasonal Layers thinlits (143751), Tailored Tag punch (145667), Fine Tip Glue Pen (138309), Metallics Sequin Assortment (144214)

Measurements: 
Very Vanilla: 8 1/2” x 5 1/2”; 1 3/4” square (for circle); four pieces 1 3/4” square (for leaves)
Soft Suede: 1 1/2” x 5 1/2”; 2 3/4” x 2”
Nature’s Poem: 1 1/4” x 5 1/2”

  

Instructions:

1. Fold Very Vanilla card stock in half to create card base. 
2. Enclose card front inside Tin Tile embossing folder and emboss using Big Shot. 
3. Ink and die-cut (using Seasonal Layers thinlits) four leaves on Very Vanilla card stock: two Old Olive, two Soft Suede.
4. Ink phrase using Stampin’ Write Markers and stamp onto Very Vanilla. Die-cut using Layering Circles dies. 
5. Punch Soft Suede Tailored Tag. Adhere phrase circle on top using SNAIL Adhesive. 
6. Adhere Nature’s Poem strip to Soft Suede strip, then adhere to card front using SNAIL Adhesive. 
7. Attach die-cut leaves to Nature’s Poem layer using Mini Stampin’ Dimensionals. 
8. Adhere phrase layer to card front using SNAIL Adhesive. 
9. To complete card attach Metallics Sequins using Fine Tip Glue Pen. 

Have you seen the amazing chicken wire elements?

No you haven't .... but today I am going to give you a sneak peek at this fun new product that will be available in the upcoming Holiday Catalog!

Introducing Chicken Wire Elements: die-cut foil sheets. You can use as one piece or cut in to smaller pieces to use accents. In one package you get 6 sheets! (and these are SO cost effective - wait and see)

Here's a card sample using the Chicken Wire Elements - don't miss a full set of instructions under the card photos below. 

 

 Supplies: 

• Stamp Sets – Country Home Photopolymer Stamp Set [147678]
• Card Stock – Blackberry Bliss Cardstock [133675]; Whisper White Card Stock [100730]
• Stamp Pads – Tuxedo Black Memento Ink Pad [132708]
• Misc. – Country Lane Designer Series Paper [147804]; Chicken Wire Elements [147807]; 3/16” Braided Linen Trim [147808]; Blackberry Bliss Combo Pack Stampin' Blends [147932]; Cajun Craze Combo Pack Stampin' Blends [147931]; Soft Sea Foam Stampin' Blends Markers Combo Pack [148059]; Granny Apple Green Stampin' Blends Markers Combo Pack [147274]; Highland Heather Stampin' Blends Markers Combo Pack [147276] 

Measurements:  

• Blackberry Bliss card stock: 8 1/2 x 5 1/2, scored at 4 1/4
• DSP: 4 x 5 1/4
• Whisper White: 2 1/4 x 4 1/4
• Chicken Wire

Instructions:

1. Attach the DSP to the card base with adhesive
2. Stamp the images with Memento Black ink and color with Stampin’ Blends
3. Trim out the oval label and attach to the stamped image with a dimensional
4. Lay Chicken Wire paper onto card base and then attach the stamped image piece over it. 
5. Tie a bow with the Braided Linen and attach to the stamp image.

What do you think? Do you like the new Chicken Wire Elements? Share your opinion by clicking on the comments button under this blog post. I'd love to hear what you think!

The beginner's guide to beautiful and simple gifts

School will be back in session very soon so why not take some time now to create a few beautiful Blended Seasons thank you pillow boxes to sent with your children the first day of school.

Inside you can tuck a nice note for the teacher - wishing them an amazing school year and thanking them for all they do. If you prefer, add a sweet treat or something else that a teacher may like. 

The Blended Seasons bundle is only available for the month of August - after that it is gone forever! I love this bundle because of the variety of occasions it offers - right through the end of the year! 

Click on the flyer below to download it to your device - you can see prices and other products as part of our August promotion. 

Click here to place your Blended Seasons order at my online store!

A fun new product in the Annual Catalog (page 193) is this cute Kraft pillow box, perfect for small gifts and wrapped goodies! You get 10 pre-printed boxes in one pack - that will take you a long way through the crafting year, won't it?

Here's one teacher gift idea - below the photo is a complete list of supplies and products used to make this Blended Seasons project. 

Supplies: 

• Stamp Sets – Blended Seasons Bundle (CM 149894 / WM 149893) 
• Card Stock – Whisper White (100730); Granny Apple Green (146990)
• Stamp Pads – Memento Black Ink ()
• Misc. – Kraft Pillow Boxes (147018); Gold Foil (132622); Daffodil Delight Stampin’ Blends Combo (144603); Pumpkin Pie Stampin’ Blends Combo (144599); Big Shot (143263); Dimensionals (104430)

 

Measurements:  

• Whisper White Card Stock: 2 ¾” x 3 ½” 7/8” x 4”    scrap
• Gold Foil: 2” x 2” 
• Granny Apple Green Card Stock: 2” x 2” 

 

Instructions:

1. Assemble pillow box by pinching the center and folding the ends in along the score lines. No adhesive needed. Note: the notched side is meant to be on top of the other. 
2. Die cut the smallest label shape from the Stitched Seasons framelits from the largest piece of whisper white cardstock.
3. Stamp leaf image from the Blended Seasons stamp set using Memento black ink onto the left side of the label shape. 
4. Stamp the leaf image again onto a scrap of white. You will only need a couple of the smaller leaves from this piece.
5. Color all the leaves on the label shape using the Stampin’ Blends (and a couple of the smaller ones on the scrap cardstock). I started with a layer of light daffodil, added a bit of light pumpkin along the veins of the leaves. Blended with the dark daffodil and then blended the entire leaf with the light daffodil. If you’d like a bit more orange, add a bit of the dark pumpkin.
6. Add the label shape to the centre of the pillow box using dimensionals. 
7. Stamp greeting using black ink and trim ends as shown.
8. Add this to the pillow box using dimensionals. 
9. Die cut the leaf/berry framelit from the granny apple green cardstock and tuck it under the greeting.
10. Die cut the leaf framelit from the gold foil and tuck it under the greeting.
11. Cut out two of the smaller leaves from the scrap and add them to the pillow box as shown in the photo.

Celebrate all seasons with this elegant set

The Blended Seasons is the perfect set for many seasons! This elegant stamp set features nature-inspired elements and paired with the colorful Garden Impressions designer series paper (48 sheets in one pack!) and this versatile layout you can have hours of crafting fun. 

The card below (and video tutorial) uses the following products - click on any of the small photos below to link over to my online store. Tip: all orders over $50 placed by August 31st earns you a $5 coupon to redeem in September (think Holiday Catalog...). 

Blended Seasons Clear-Mount Bundle
$64.75

Garden Impressions 6" X 6" (15.2 X 15.2 Cm) Designer Series Paper
$11.00

Layering Squares Framelits Dies
$35.00

 

 Blended Seasons thank you card

Tip: try this four square layout using stamps or other designer papers - change the theme and you will have a completely different card! 

Stamp set: Blended Seasons (bundle and save 10%: 149894)

Ink: StazOn Jet Black

Paper and cutting dimensions:
          Shaded Spruce: 8 1/2" x 5 1/2"
          Basic Black: four pieces 2" square; 4 1/4" x 1 1/4"; 1 3/4" x 1 1/2" (for bee)
          Garden Impressions designer series paper (146289): four pieces 1 3/8" square
          Very Vanilla: 1" x 4 1/4"
          Mango Melody: 1 1/2" square

Accessories: Big Shot, Magnetic Platform, Layering Squares framelits, 141708, Layering Circles framelits (141705), Detailed Dragonfly thinlits (142749), Multipurpose Adhesive sheets (144106), SNAIL adhesive, Faceted Dots (146910)

Here's my video to help you step by step - watch for my tips throughout!