Wednesday, November 30, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 30

Good morning and Happy Wednesday!  We've reached the end of the month and the last day of this years gratitude challenge.  I've had so much fun, been really productive, and I hope have inspired you a little.  For the last card of the challenge I decided to use the Proverbial Stampers November Color and Sketch challenges as inspiration for today's card that mixes Holiday catalog items for a fun everyday card.

I started with Crumb Cake cardstock for the cardbase and then added a layer of Cherry Cobbler cardstock as a mat for the Very Vanilla cardfront.  On the cardfront I used the A World of Thanks background stamp set for the background (and greeting at the same time) and stamped it in Crumb Cake ink.  I took a piece of Always Artichoke cardstock and cut a flag and then embossed it with the Big Shot and Boho Chic Embossing Folder

For the main stamped image I used the Basket of Wishes stamp set and stamped the berry basket and berries in Chocolate Chip ink before coloring them in with a blender pen and Crumb Cake, Cherry Cobbler, and Always Artichoke ink.  Once I was finished coloring I cut the image out using the Big Shot and Layering Circles Framelits and then used the same framelits to cut a scallop circle mat out of Always Artichoke cardstock. 

Of course you've seen I've had a thing for Copper Foil Paper lately and I decided to use it again on this card as an accent, this time cutting a circle out using the new Stitched Shapes Framelits for a beautiful edge.  I used dimensionals to attached the smaller circles to the foil circle for a little extra dimension.  The final touch was to tie a double bow using the Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine from the Baker's Twine Trio Pack (love getting three coordinating colors in one package!!)



This card makes me think of summer and all the fun times in the sun and love that you can get so many looks with this one stamp set, so versatile (I have to admit I really hope this set carries over to next years catalog)!

Below are easy ordering links for the product's used on today's card:



Enjoy!

Diana
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Tuesday, November 29, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 29

Good morning!  We've almost reached the end of November, how is that possible?  This means it's almost the end of this years 30 Day Gratitude Challenge, I've had so much fun sharing with you this month and either mailing these cards or getting them ready to mail (so thankful I'm all set for thank you's I'll need during the holidays).  I hope you've enjoyed and been inspired by this years cards as well.  Today it's time for another quick and easy card that uses the addition of a little copper foil to really help dress up the card (I'm really in love with the copper right now!)

I started with Early Espresso cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Whisper White cardstock for the cardfront.  On the cardfront I stamp the leaf image from the Embellished Ornaments stamp set in Early Espresso ink and then colored in the leaves in Garden Green ink.

For the greeting I used the One Big Meaning stamp set and stamped the greeting in Night of Navy ink on Whisper White cardstock and then matted it with Early Espresso cardstock.  For the ornament I used the Big Shot and Delicate Ornaments Framelits to cut out the solid ornament using Night of Navy cardstock and the ornate top layer using the Copper Foil Paper (super easy).  The final touch was to tie a bow using the Garden Green Baker's Twine from the Baker's Twine Trio Pack and attached it to the top of the ornament to look like the attachment of the ornament on the branch.

I love the simplicity of this card and how the Whisper White background really lets the design pop.  You could also easily change out the greeting to have an elegant Christmas card.

Below are easy ordering links for the product's used on today's card:




Enjoy!

Diana
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Monday, November 28, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 28 (SSINKspiration Technique Challenge #SSINKTC39)

Good morning and Happy Monday!  Hopefully you had a happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday weekend.  I always love this weekend but it also officially kicks off all of the Christmas bustling that can sometimes get overwhelming so it's good to just relax and enjoy while we can.  Today it's time for another technique challenge over on the SSINKspiration blog and this month we're showcasing the Baby Wipe Technique.  I'll admit I've heard of this technique but I've never used it before so this was fun to try out and I decided to do one more fall themed card to close out the season.

I started with Cajun Craze cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Soft Suede cardstock as a mat for the Delightful Dijon cardfront.  On this layer I started by stamping the grain image from the Wetlands stamp set using Delightful Dijon ink and some were stamped off one so there was different levels of shading.  The greeting is from the same stamp set and was stamped in Soft Suede ink.

To make the leaf I took a baby wipe and added several dots of reinker using Cajun Craze, Delightful Dijon, Rich Razzleberry, and Soft Suede ink and then took the large leaf from the Vintage Leaves stamp set and used the inked baby wipe to ink the stamp and then stamped onto a piece of Very Vanilla cardstock. I'll admit I took several tries stamping the leaf to get the one that I liked so this does take some practice but it's fun and you get a different look each time.  Then I took the Big Shot and cut out the leaf using the Leaflits Framelits.  I used the same framelit to cut out another leaf using Soft Suede cardstock and then then embossed it with the Woodgrain Embossing Folder.  Layering both leaves helps elevate it and then I added a knot I tied using Rich Razzleberry Ribbon from the 3/8" Trio Ribbon Package.

This card is so pretty and I love how all the colors blend and complement each other.  This was also the first time using this stamp set and the greeting is lovely!  Make sure to check out the other cards the design team is sharing using this technique and then we would love for you to join us and play along and share what you create using this technique.

Below are easy ordering links for the product's used on today's card:



Enjoy!

Diana
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Sunday, November 27, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 27

Good evening!  We made it home safely last night and have been busy today getting the rest of the Christmas decorations up, laundry, groceries, etc. everything so we'll be ready for the week.  I didn't want to miss sharing today's gratitude card so better late than never.  Since I've shared several Christmas cards I thought I would change things up and share an everyday card that has the addition of copper which really elevates this simple card.

I started with Soft Suede cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Night of Navy cardstock as the mat for the Whisper White cardfront.  I used the Flourishing Phrases stamp set for this card and used the large floral image and stamped it in Mint Macaron ink.  Next I took a piece of Copper Foil Paper and used the Big Shot and Flourish Thinlits (the thinlits and stamp set are offered as a bundle so you can save 10% on both) to cut out the coordinating floral piece and attached it to the cardfront as an overlay.

Before attaching the cardfront to the cardbase I wrapped a piece of Mint Macaron ribbon from the 3/8" Trio Ribbon Pack and then tied a knot.  The greeting is from the same stamp set and was stamped in Night of Navy ink on Whisper White cardstock before being cut out with the Big Shot and Layering Ovals Framelits.  I used the same framelits to cut a scalloped oval mat out of Soft Suede cardstock and attached the greeting piece with dimensionals.

I love the color combo in this card and the copper is so sparkly, it's just the right touch.

Below are easy ordering links for the product's used on today's card:



Enjoy!

Diana
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Saturday, November 26, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 26

Good morning!  It's been a wonderful holiday weekend but it's time to start heading home so we can get all ready for the new week (and avoid some of the traffic, haha!)  Before we hit the road I wanted to make sure to share today's gratitude card so I didn't miss it.  This card uses one of my favorite stamp sets from the Holiday Catalog, Merry Medley, it has some great fonts and greetings and makes a great background.

I started with Old Olive cardstock for the cardbase and then added Real Red cardstock as a mat for the Smoky Slate cardfront.  On the cardfront I stamped the Merry Medley stamp using Smoky Slate ink for a nice, simple background.

The greeting is from the One Big Meaning stamp set and was stamped in Old Olive ink on Whisper White cardstock.  I cut the greeting out with the Big Shot and the Layering Circles Framelits.  I used the same framelits to create the scallop circle mat out of Early Espresso cardstock.  I used dimensionals to attach the greeting piece to the cardfront.

I wanted to give the greeting the look of a wreath so I added a bow that I made using Real Red Glimmer Paper and but it out using the Big Shot and Everyday Jars Framelits.

I love the simplicity of this card and it's nice and flat for easy mailing!

Below are easy ordering links for the product's used on today's card:



Enjoy your weekend!

Diana
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Friday, November 25, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 25 (SSINKspiration Holiday Catalog Accessories)

Happy Black Friday!  Were you out shopping last night?  We did our annual pilgrimage but with the value and benefits of online shopping I actually had a lot of my shopping done before we headed out last night.  Today on the SSINKspiration blog we're sharing our favorite Holiday Catalog accessories and one of mine is the Candy Cane Lane Designer Series Paper, such cute patterns and very classic Christmas so I decided to use it for today's gratitude card.

I started with Crumb Cake cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Real Red cardstock that was embossed with the Big Shot and Sparkle Embossing Folder.  Next I added a strip of the Candy Cane Lane Designer Series Paper and then wrapped some of the coordinating Candy Cane Lane Baker's Twine and tied a double bow.

Next I took another piece of the DSP and cut out the cute gingerbread house using my Paper Snips.  I used the Cookie Cutter Christmas stamp set to stamp the gingerbread man using Early Espresso ink and Whisper White cardstock and then punched him out with the coordinating Cookie Cutter Punch  His bowtie is from the same stamp and punch and he was attached to the cardfront with dimensionals.

The greeting is from the Jar of Love stamp set and stamped in Early Espresso ink and then cut out with Big Shot and Stitched Shapes Framelits.  I sponged around the edge with Crumb Cake ink and then attached the greeting with dimensionals.

This card just screams Christmas which is perfect today as we're all in full on Christmas happenings.  Make sure to check out the other cards the design team is sharing so you can see their favorite holiday accessories to inspire you.

Don't forget, the Online Extravaganza is going on now and you can save up to 40% on select products. I've set up an online hostess code: SY7VUWGC and everyone who places an order through this hostess code will receive a FREE gift from me!  The sale ends November 28 and remember there will one more one day sale that starts on November 28.

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today's card:



Enjoy!

Diana
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Thursday, November 24, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 24

Happy Thanksgiving!  I hope you are enjoying a great and relaxing day with family and friends.  We're having a wonderful time (hence the late posting today).  For today' gratitude card I needed a quick card but definitely had to do something fall themed and since I had the October Paper Pumpkin kit out on my desk I knew I could use the stamps for something fun.

I started with Crumb Cake cardstock for the cardbase and then added a cardfront with Basic Black cardstock that was embossed with the Big Shot and Woodgrain Embossing Folder.  Next I added a piece of designer series paper from the Warmth and Cheer Designer Series Paper Stack (I'm over the moon happy that the patterns in this pack fit so many occasions and then wrapped a piece of Basic Black Solid Baker's Twine around the cardfront and tied a bow.

For the leaves I took some Cajun Craze and Always Artichoke cardstock and stamped using the pattern stamp from the Paper Pumpkin kit and then cut the leaves out with the Big Shot and Leaflets Framelits and then scrunched them up for texture before attaching to the cardfront with some Mono Liquid Glue.  The greeting is from the same stamp set and was stamped in Cajun Craze ink on Very Vanilla and then cut it out with the Big Shot and new Stitched Shapes Framelits and then sponged around the edge with Always Artichoke ink before attaching it with dimensionals.

I know black isn't a normal fall color but I love how the fall colors pop against the black background, makes it very elegant.

Below are easy ordering links for the product's used on today's card:



Enjoy your holiday!

Diana
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Wednesday, November 23, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 23 (SSI Thanksgiving Card)

Good morning and Happy Thanksgiving Eve!  Today I'm thankful for starting our family holiday and heading out to spend a few days with some dear friends, it's a tradition!  Before the fun gets started I wanted to share today's gratitude challenge card and I used it on the SSINKspiration blog where the design team members are sharing Thanksgiving cards.

Now you may recognize several elements in this card, it was the same as Monday's card and I just changed a few things up to completely change the card. 

This card showcases the Basket of Wishes stamp set and I used the Heat Tool and Copper Embossing Powder to stamp the greeting on top of the decorative mask sponging on the cardfront.  For the main stamp image I stamped the basket and gourds onto Very Vanilla cardstock and after coloring it all in with Stampin' Write Markers I matted it with Cajun Craze cardstock and attached it to the cardfront with dimensionals.  The final touch was to add a bow I tied using Garden Green Baker's Twine from the Baker's Twine Trio Pack.

The mixture of textures, metals, and colors make this a perfect fall card and way to send Thanksgiving wishes.  Make sure to check out the cards the other design team members are sharing for more inspiration.

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today's card:



Happy Thanksgiving!

Diana
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Tuesday, November 22, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 22

Good morning!  Today's the last day of school and work before the holiday break and I have to admit, I'm very excited for some extended time off with the family and to see some friends we visit every year (it's definitely a highlight).  Even though Thanksgiving is a couple of days away you really can't escape all the Christmas "everywhere" so today's gratitude card is another Christmas theme and uses some fun stamp sets and colors.

I started with Real Red cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Old Olive cardstock and stamped the greeting in Basic Black from the Suite Sayings stamp set (I used my Stampin' Write Marker to just ink up part of the greeting).  I added a piece of Basic Black Designer Series Paper from the Neutrals Designer Series Paper Stack that was matted with Real Red cardstock to anchor my fun jar element.

It seems like masons jars are everywhere and all the rage so it's only fitting that we now have mason jar stamps (Jars of Love) and coordinating framelits.  I love to use mason jars for giving little treats so I decided to make one holding peppermint candies but I didn't have the holiday stamp set that coordinates with the jars so I decided to make my own using the Sweet Home stamp set.  I stamped the mason jar on Whisper White cardstock using Basic Black ink and then cut it out with the Big Shot and Everyday Jars Framelits.  Next I took the candy stamp from the Sweet Home stamp set and stamped it one in the bottom corner.  Next I used my 3/4" Circle Punch to create a mask and set it over the candy I just stamped and stamped again so the candy didn't overstamp.  I continued to do this until I had the far filled as I wanted.  Then I stamped the candy again on a scrap of paper and punched it out with the circle punch and attached it with a dimensional so it popped up a little more than the rest.

Of course every mason jar needs a lid so I heat embossed mine using Silver Embossing Powder and my Heat Tool, then I cut it out with the framelits and attached it with dimensionals.  The finishing touch was to add a bow I tied using Old Olive Baker's Twine so it looks like it was wrapped around the jar (kind of clever I thought!!)

This is such a fun card, I really just want to reach out and eat one of the candies.

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today's card:



Enjoy!

Diana
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Monday, November 21, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 21

Good morning!  After an eventful and jam packed weekend I have a really fun card and cool technique for today's gratitude card.  This uses heat embossing to make a faux metal embellishment, we made this card awhile back at stamp class and while it's a bit of work it's a fun technique that was definitely a hit with the ladies.

I started with Rich Razzleberry cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Soft Suede cardstock as a mat for the Very Vanilla cardfront.  On the card front I took the Seasonal Decorative Mask (on sale starting today as part of the Online Extravaganza so don't miss it) and sponged the sweater knit pattern using Soft Suede, Cajun Craze, and Rich Razzleberry ink.  Then I added a piece of designer series paper from the Petals & Paisley's Specialty Designer Series Paper (this cool copper foil piece of paper is beautiful!!)

To make the faux embellishment I took my Big Shot and the Hello You Thinlits and cut the "thanks" greeting three times out of Whisper White cardstock.  Then I glued all three cutouts together so they were stacked.  So now comes the messy part, I covered my thanks in Versamark ink and then covered it in Copper Embossing Powder and heat embossed it with the Heat Tool.  Once it was set I reapplied Versamark and embossing powder and heated it up again.  You do this a total of three times and it's really cool a the end you get a cool metal look and the edges of the cut out the embossing starts to wrap around the edge for a realistic look (provided a close up here so you so you could try to see it).  Isn't this cool?

To finish the card I took a piece of 5/8" Burlap Ribbon and attached it to the cardfront using Fast Fuse Adhesive and then attached the greeting using the Fine Tip Glue Pen (I had to place a punch on top of the greeting to weight it down so it would stick really well).  The final touch was to add a Cajun Craze Enamel Dot from the Regals Enamel Dots in the top right corner.

I was so happy with how this card turned out, and didn't use a single stamp, go figure.  Can't wait to use this technique on other projects using different colors of emboss powder and cut outs, so fun!!

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today's card:




Enjoy!

Diana
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Sunday, November 20, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 20

Good morning!  Boy how things can change around here, after a beautiful start to the weekend the temps have dropped and the wind is kicking so it's definitely back to feeling like fall (at least we got to enjoy it while we could).  Today it's time to get into holiday prep mode full time, family Christmas pictures, decorating, a little baking, along with the usual school homework, football (and there may be a little visit to Santa, I really like to do it before Thanksgiving when it gets busy).  Today's gratitude card is super easy and definitely fits with today's activities and uses the Greetings from Santa stamp set for this super cute tree.

I started with Early Espresso cardstock for the card an then added a piece of Crumb Cake cardstock for the cardfront and wrapped a piece of Gold 1/8" Ribbon around the front and then attached a bow. 

For the trees I used the Greetings from Santa stamp set and stamped the center tree in Garden Green ink and then stamped the two side trees using Early Espresso ink (and stamped off first so they were a little lighter).  I used a small star punch and some Gold Glimmer Paper for the star and attached it with a dimensional.  The greeting is from the On Big Meaning stamp set and was stamped in Early Espresso ink.

I really like the simplicity of this card, they don't all need to be over the top.  This would also be great if you're running a little behind and need to make a lot of cards and don't have a lot of time but still want it to be special.

Below are easy ordering links for the products on today's card:



Happy Sunday!

Diana
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Saturday, November 19, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 19

Good morning and Happy Saturday!  We're in for a busy morning and then looking forward to a fun family outing this afternoon (if the weather cooperates).  I'm loving all the fall colors and leaves this time of year and it was definitely the inspiration for today's gratitude card.

I started with Cherry Cobbler cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Crushed Curry Cardstock that was embossed with the Big Shot and Cable Knit Dynamic Embossing Folder.  Next I added a piece of designer series paper from the Warmth and Cheer Designer Series Paper Stack (I love the variety of patterns and colors in this stack since it has so many options) and matted it with Cherry Cobbler cardstock.

The greeting is from the Scenic Sayings stamp set (definitely not a fall themed set) and was stamped in Crushed Curry ink on Whisper White cardstock and then matted with Basic Black cardstock before being attached with dimensionals.

A nice and simple card that still has some impact, I'd say it's pretty perfect!

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today's card:



Enjoy your beautiful Saturday!

Diana
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Friday, November 18, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 18 (SSI Favorite Christmas Bundle)

Happy Friday!  I'm so looking forward to this weekend, not only is all the family in town and we're planning a little adventure Saturday afternoon but the Christmas decorations are going up in full blast and I can't wait.  Plus Aidan has personally created our outdoor lighting plan (he's had a drawing made since last December) so it will be interesting to see how it turns out and his managing of the installation process.  It's only fitting for today's gratitude card I went wit a Christmas theme to reflect our mood and it also fits with today's SSINKspiration focus on Favorite Christmas Bundles.

I started with Red Red cardstock and then added a piece of Crumb Cake that was embossed with the Big Shot and Polka Dot Embossing Folder for the cardfront.  Next I added a piece of designer series paper from the Candy Cane Christmas Designer Series Paper package and matted it with Whisper White cardstock.  I used the Real Red Baker's Twine from the Candy Cane Lane Baker's Twine package to wrap around the DSP and tied a perfect little bow (I tied it on a separate piece and used a glue dot to attach it to ensure it was nice and straight!)  The greeting is from the Sunburst Sayings stamp set and was stamped in Early Espresso ink.

The Santa is from the Cookie Cutter Christmas stamp set and my customer showed me this great idea, by accident, to stamp Santa on Crumb Cake cardstock and then color him in.  We used a White Gel Pen to color in his beard and suit trim and it really makes it pop (more than if he was stamped on Whisper White).  I used the Cookie Cutter Punch to punch Santa out and then attached him with a dimensional.

I just love how cute this little Santa is, he makes me want to pinch his cheek and bite off a leg like a cookie (oh my!)

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today's card:



Enjoy!

Diana
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Thursday, November 17, 2016

Online Extravaganza - Starts Next Week, Get Ready to Save!!


Online Extravaganza only happens once a year so be sure to make the most of it. For one week only, November 21-28, you can save up to 40% on select products. To sweeten the deals, we will be having 24-hour sales on the first and last day of the promotion, featuring special products available for that day only.
 
You can even get a sneak peek AND save on products that will be on the future holiday catalog retiring list. You won’t want anyone to miss out on this great opportunity to stock up and save!
Details

• Promotion period: November 21-28, 2016
Discounted items/bundles available on all order types
You must use the bundle item codes provided. Discounts will not be applied if individual item numbers are entered separately.
Some bundles have been created exclusively for Online Extravaganza and will not be available after the promotion ends.
There is no minimum purchase required in order to receive the discounted price.
Additional products from current catalogs may be purchased on the same order.
• Discounts range from 10-40 percent. Note: While some retiring holiday products may be discounted during the retiring list promotion in December, no discounts will be greater than the discounts being offered during Online Extravaganza.
Online Extravaganza includes two 24-hour sales.
        The first 24-hour sale begins at 12:01 AM (MT) on November 21 and runs
          through 11:50 PM (MT) that same day.
        The second 24-hour sale begins at 12:01 AM (MT) on November 28 and
          runs through 11:50 PM (MT) that same day.

See the Deals Now!  - Online Extravaganza Deals (Download PDF)

Paper Pumpkin kits and products on the future holiday catalog retiring list, except stamp sets, are only available while supplies last.
All products that are while supplies last have been noted in the Online Extravaganza deals list.

I've set up an online hostess code: SY7VUWGC and everyone who places an order through this hostess code will receive a FREE gift from me!

Happy Shopping!
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30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 17

Good morning!  What an amazingly beautiful day we had yesterday and it sounds like it’s only going to get better the next couple of days.  We’re heading back to Christmas for today’s gratitude card and really let the colors and textures be the focus on this card.

I started with Mint Macaron cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Emerald Envy Cardstock that was embossed with the Holly Embossing Folder.  Next I added a piece of Presents and Pinecones Designer Series Paper and matted it with Cherry Cobbler cardstock. 
The greeting is from the Tin of Cards stamp set and was stamped on a piece of Mint Macron cardstock using Cherry Cobbler ink.  I used Whisper White Craft ink to stamp the snowflakes from the Peace this Season stamp set to dress it up a little before punching the top with the Scallop Tag Topper Punch.    For embellishments I used a piece of Whisper White 5/8” Satin Ribbon in the top hole and then tied a bow around the ribbon using Cherry Cobbler Baker’s Twine from the Baker’s Twine Trio Pack before attaching it to the cardfront with dimensionals.

 This card is so pretty and this was one of the cards at this years Mega Christmas cards class so the attendees used a Christmas greeting instead and I just changed it out on my set for thank you’s (going to need those a lot in the coming months).

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today's card:



Enjoy!

Diana
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Wednesday, November 16, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 16 (Fab Friday Color Challenge)

Happy Wednesday!  I've finally come to the realization that the holidays are going to be rolling in here like a freight train and I'm not going to be able to stop or slow it, so might as well hop on and enjoy the ride. This is my favorite time of year and we're starting to get in the full Christmas spirit by starting to pull out the Christmas decorations to begin the process (I go a little overboard so the house decorating process is broken out over about a week so it doesn't get too overwhelming).  It's in honor of embracing the holidays that today's card for the 30 Day Gratitude challenge is winter themed which a cheeky note and uses the Fab Friday color sketch as inspiration.

I started with Mint Macaron cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Soft Suede cardstock as a mat for the Delightful Dijon cardfront that was embossed with the Big Shot and Cable Knit Dynamic Embossing Folder (I had to add a couple neutral colors to his card, hope the Fab Friday team doesn't mind!)  Next I added a piece of designer series paper from the Petals and Paisleys Specialty Designer Series Paper and matted it with Rich Razzleberry cardstock.



Check out this cute moose?  He's so fun.  The moose is from the Jolly Friends stamp set and it's a bundle along with the Jolly Hat Builder Punch (perfect coordination).  The moose head was stamped on Crumb Cake cardstock using Early Espresso ink and then I colored in his antlers using a Soft Suede Stampin' Write Marker and then cut him out with Paper Snips.  The scarf is Delightful Dijon and is in the same stamp set and fussy cut.  I stamped the hat using Rich Razzleberry and then punched it out with the Jolly Hat Builder Punch.  I used Dazzling Diamonds Glimmer Paper to punch out the trim for the hat and it was all attached with dimensionals

The greeting is from a past Paper Pumpkin kit and was stamped on Crumb Cake ink with Rich Razzleberry ink and cut out with the Big Shot and Stitched Shapes Framelits and attached with dimensionals.

I love how fun and fresh this card turned out, not your traditional holiday which is perfect.  Just a reminder, the Stitched Shapes Framelits have been so popular they're currently on backorder and we're looking forward to the next shipment.  If you really have your heart set on these soon, please make sure to order by November 21 when Stampin' Up! anticipates turning off the ordering of this item until sufficient stock is replenished to meet demand.

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today's card:



Enjoy!

Diana
 
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Tuesday, November 15, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 15

Good morning!  One of the things of love about being thankful and showing gratitude is that it isn't limited to the holidays, it's something we can demonstrate and do all year long.  For today's 30 Day Gratitude challenge I decided to change things up with this pretty card that can be use any time, for any occasion.

I started with Crumb Cake cardstock for the cardbase.  The green DSP was a leftover on my desk from a past Paper Pumpkin kit so I loved being able to use it and clean up my desk (a little!!).  Next I took a piece of Whisper White cardstock and embossed it with the Big Shot and Floral Affection Textured Embossing folder (it's great and has two different embossing folders for double the fun) and matted it with Night of Navy cardstock.

The greeting is from the Happy Happenings stamp set and was stamped in Night of Navy ink on Whisper White ink before being cut out with the Big Shot and Layering Circles Framelits.  I used the same framelits to cute the scalloped circle mat using Crumb Cake ink.  Before attaching the greeting to the cardfront I took a piece of 5/8" Burlap Ribbon and cut it apart so I had the individual strands.  I took a couple of strands and looped them and attached to the back of the greeting and then attached it to the cardfront with dimensionals. I took one more strand of burlap and tied a knot and then attached it with a glue dot for the finishing touch.

This card has such a pretty, natural look I really liked how it turned out and was actually really simple to make, love it!!

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today's card:



Enjoy!

Diana
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Monday, November 14, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 14 (SSINKspiration Card Sketch SSINKCS39)

Happy Monday!  It's a chilly one this morning but today I'm so grateful to have my guys home after a successful camping trip, one that was colder than usual and not only did they survive but had a great time (including a full Thanksgiving dinner they cooked Saturday Night).  Today's gratitude card using this months sketch challenge over on the SSINKspiration blog for inspiration and I used a ton of great products from the Holiday catalog.

I started with Delightful Dijon cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Soft Suede cardstock that was embossed with the Big Shot and Cable Knit Dynamic Embossing Folder.  Next I added a piece of the Petals and Paisleys Specialty Designer Series Paper that was matted with Night of Navy cardstock.  I used another pattern of DSP from the same package for the hounds tooth flag and then used a piece of Mint Macaron Ribbon from the 3/8" Ribbon Trio Pack for the second flag sticking out the side.

I cut a small piece of Rich Razzleberry cardstock and embossed it with the Big Shot and Softly Falling Embossing folder to stick behind the greeting.  The greeting is from the Paisleys and Posies stamp set and was stamped in Night of Navy ink on Very Vanilla cardstock and then was cut out with the Big Shot and Layering Ovals Framelits before being attached with dimensionals.

I decided to use some Copper Foil Paper (love this stuff) and the Paisley Framelits (this comes as a bundle with the stamp set to save 10%) to cut the intricate flower image out and then used a Rich Razzleberry Enamel Dot from the Brights Enamel Dots package for an accent at the base of the flower.

There are so many elements and textures on this card it really makes you want to touch and enjoy each item, I love all the visual interest.  Make sure to check out all the other great cards the design team is sharing using this sketch and then we would love for you to come play along with us!

Below are easy ordering links for the product's used on today's card:



Enjoy!

Diana
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Sunday, November 13, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 13

Happy Sunday!  Boy it was chilly yesterday.  With the boys camping this weekend I was certainly thinking of them and hoping they stayed warm, can't wait to see them this afternoon.  I have another fun, Christmas themed card for today's 30 Day Gratitude challenge card using the Cookie Cutter Christmas stamp set (so fun)!

I started with Crumb Cake cardstock for the cardbase and added another piece of Crumb Cake cardstock for the cardfront.  On the cardfront I started by sponging around the edge using Crumb Cake ink.  The two pieces of designer series paper is from the Candy Cane Lane Designer Series Paper and the greeting is from the Work of Art stamp set and was stamped in Early Espresso ink.

For the cute reindeer I using the Cookie Cutter Christmas stamp set and stamped him in Early Espresso ink on Crumb Cake cardstock and then punched him out with the coordinating Cookie Cutter Punch (it's fun how you can use the same punch for all the characters in this set just by flipping it over).  I colored the antlers in Soft Suede ink and the nose is Real Red.  Before attaching the reindeer to the cardfront I looped some Gold Baker's Twine from the Baker's Twine Trio Pack and attached the whole think with dimensionals.

This little guy just makes me smile and I know it will be perfect to extend the holiday season when I send out my thank yous after the holidays (or during if I'm really on the ball!)  You could change this card to make it holiday by just changing the greeting.

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today's card:



Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Diana
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Saturday, November 12, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 12

Good morning and Happy Saturday!  Looking forward to a quiet and relaxing weekend and this afternoon I have some ladies coming over for a couple different Holiday classes and I can't wait to help them get a head start on their holiday projects.  For today's 30 Day Gratitude challenge card I'm sharing one of the cards I designed for this years Mega Christmas Card class and this was my modification to make it a Christmas thank you.

I started with Cherry Cobbler cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Garden Green cardstock that was Embossed with the Big Shot and Lucky Stars Embossing Folder.  Next I added a piece of designer series paper from the Warmth and Cheer Designer Series Paper Stack and matted it with Basic Black cardstock.

The greeting is from the One Big Meaning stamp set and was stamped with Garden Green ink on Crumb Cake cardstock and then cut out with the Big Shot and Layering Ovals Framelits.  I added a piece of Cherry Cobbler Taffeta ribbon from the 3/8" Silky Taffeta Ribbon Combo Pack as a little tail and the greeting was attached with dimensionals.

This is a nice and simple card that will let me be ready to send thank you wishes during the busy holidays without having to find time to make the card (love having these made in advance!)

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today's card:



Enjoy,

Diana
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Friday, November 11, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 11

Happy Friday and Happy Veteran’s Day!  I want to take a moment to thank all the brave men and women who have given so much for the freedoms we as Americans enjoy, your service is truly appreciated.  The boys are away at scout camp this weekend (extended camp at that due to the Veteran’s Day holiday) so I’ve planned a weekend fully of holiday fun including some fun classes to get us ready for the holidays and I may start pulling out the Christmas decorations (I’ll admit I love decorating for almost all holidays but Christmas is my favorite and I have A LOT of decorations so it take awhile to get them up so I like to get started a little early so we can enjoy them to the max).  It’s only fitting that today’s card for my 30 Day Gratitude challenge is Christmas themed and it fits right in with the SSINKspiration designers sharing their favorite holiday stamp sets.   When I first saw this years Holiday catalog one of the first sets to make it to my wish list was the Merry Medley background stamp.  Not only does it have some great greetings (you could easily cut this set apart to have the perfect greeting all by itself) but the chalkboard look gets me every time.

I started with Island Indigo cardstock for the cardbase.  Next I added a piece of Cherry Cobbler cardstock for the mat of my Whisper White cardfront.  On the cardfront I used the Merry Medley stamp to stamp the background using Smoky Slate ink, just like that, instant background!  The greeting is from an old Paper Pumpkin set (I love how the stamps in the Paper Pumpkin kits are exclusive and you can only getting them by being in the club!) and was stamped in Cherry Cobbler ink.
For the main focal point I used the Starlight Thinlits and the Big Shot to cut the large solid star out of Island Indigo cardstock and then the fancy detailed star using Silver Glimmer Paper.  In the center of the star I added a Cherry Cobbler enamel dot from the Regals Enamel Dots.

The accessories really help push this card over the top and it was actually really quick and easy to make.  And man oh man that glitter star, be still my heart!!  This card could easily have been a regular Holiday card without the addition of the “thank you” greeting but it’s always fun to have your thank you’s match the holiday.

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today’s card:



 
Enjoy,

Diana
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Thursday, November 10, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 10 (Fab Friday Sketch Challenge)

Good morning!  It was a busy night last night getting the boys ready to head out on their boy scout camping trip.  They leave tomorrow and it's an extended trip due to the Veteran's Day holiday.  On top of that Chris is the adult grub master so he was working food for 60 people, including a full Thanksgiving feast cooked outdoors (will be interesting to see how that goes).  So in addition to camping I baked two different coffee cakes, cookies, and brownies for the camp trip so last night was all about that but I was able to run down to the studio to whip up today's card for my 30 Day Gratitude Challenge (I'm so thankful the guys are off on a fun adventure today, and mama gets a long quiet weekend (win-win).  I decided to use this weeks Fab Friday sketch challenge as the inspiration for today's card.

I started with Emerald Envy cardstock for the cardbase and embossed it with the Big Shot and Holly Embossing Folder.  Next I added a piece of Presents and Pinecones Designer Series Paper that was matted with Cherry Cobbler cardstock.  I wrapped a piece of Emerald Envy taffeta ribbon (from the 3/8" Silky Taffeta Ribbon Combo Pack) around the DSP piece and then tied a knot. 

To dress it up a little I took one of the Christmas Trinket Embellishments and tied it around the knot with some Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine that was tied in a bow.  The greeting is from the October Paper Pumpkin kit (I have it out on my desk still to make) so I decided to use it for the greeting which was stamped with Cherry Cobbler ink on Delightful Dijon cardstock.  It was cut out using the Big Shot and the Project Life Cards and Labels Framelits and attached with dimensionals.

This card came together very quickly which was just what I needed last night and the little trinket embellishment really makes the card special.

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today's card:



Enjoy!

Diana
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Wednesday, November 9, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 9

Good morning!  There are certain days that you really need to remind yourself of all the things you have to be grateful for, today is one of those days.  Despite things being outside of my control it helps to think about those dear to me and how they impact my life.  I’m back with today’s card for the November Gratitude challenge and today I decided to share a clean and simple card that while it doesn’t have a lot going on it still has a lot of texture.

 I started with Crushed Curry cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Always Artichoke cardstock behind my Whisper White cardfront.  On the cardfront I stamped using the Pineapple background stamp (this stamp was such a big hit when the catalog was first released and this was my first time using it.  To color the pineapple I wanted lots of different variations in colors so I used my Stampin’ Write Markers to color directly on the rubber and added the lightest color first and then layered progressively darker shades by just adding streaks on the stamp (this was all done before stamping on the cardstock.  The end result is this really fun coloring (especially on the green of the pineapple) that really mimics how pineapples look when I buy them.

The greeting is from the Banners for You stamp set and I stamped the banner image in Basic Black ink and the greeting in Always Artichoke (the stamp set is photopolymer so it made lining up the greeting in the banner a breeze) and then I cut it out with the Big Shot and the Bunch of Banners Framelits before attaching it to the cardfront with dimensionals. 

These big background stamps are great for making a bold image and you don’t need a lot else, just let them be the focus.

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today’s card:



 
Take care,
Diana
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Tuesday, November 8, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 8

Good morning!  It’s election day and no matter who you support I hope you take the time to vote, it’s important to be part of the process and voice your choice for the future.  We’re heading home today but will definitely be home in time to make it to the polls.  For today’s 30 Day Gratitude challenge it’s time to go back to fall for today’s gratitude card and I share card we made at last months card class using the Basket of Wishes stamp set (you know I love that set!1)

I started with Old Olive cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Crumb Cake cardstock that was embossed with the Big Shot and Sparkle Embossing Folder.  Next I added a piece of Soft Suede designer series paper from the Neutrals Designer Series Paper Stack.  I used my 2” Circle Punch to cut a piece out of the Warmth & Cheer Designer Series Paper Stack (this stack has so many great patterns for all season long, not just Christmas).

I used the same 2” Circle Punch on a piece of Whisper White cardstock for the base of my basket element.  Next I stamped the pumpkins for inside the basket on the Whisper White circle using Early Espresso ink and stamped the basket using the same ink on Crumb Cake cardstock.  The basket was cut out with Paper Snips and attached to the circle with dimensionals so it pops up after coloring the pumpkins and gourds in with Stampin’ Write Markers.

The greeting is from the same stamp set and was stamped using Soft Suede ink on Cajun Craze cardstock and then cut out with the Big Shot and Project Life Labels and Cards Framelits.  The final touch was to tie a bow using Old Olive Baker’s Twine to attach on the cardfront.

All the different patterns, colors, and textures really help the fall feel of this card come to life and I love how it turned out.  I have several more projects in my head using this stamp set, just hope I don’t run out of time, haha!!

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today’s project:



                                                               
Have a great day!

Diana
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Monday, November 7, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 7 (SSINKspiration Color Challenge #ssinkcc39)

Good morning!  In our area November is known as “NoSchoolvember” based on how many days the kid’s are out of school and this week they only have school on Wednesday and Thursday, crazy I know!  So we decided to take a long weekend for a little mini getaway and are currently in Williamsburg visiting Great Wolf (what kid doesn’t like a waterpark) as well as Colonial Williamsburg which should be lots of fun!  Before I head out for today’s activities I wanted to share today’s card for the 30 Day Gratitude challenge and since today is also this month’s color sketch over on the SSINKspiration blog I decided to combine the two.  This month’s colors are fun and fresh so I had to take them out for a spin. 

I started with Smoky Slate cardstock for the cardbase and then added a piece of Lost Lagoon cardstock for the Whisper White cardfront.  Next I added a piece Tangerine Tango DSP from the Brights Designer Series Paper Stack.  Next I added a strip of Island Indigo Cardstock in the center that was embossed with the Big Shot and the Festive Embossing Folder. 

The greeting is from the Scenic Sayings Stamp set and I used Tangerine Tango and Island Indigo Stampin’ Write Markers to color directly on the stamp before stamping on Whisper White cardstock.  The greeting was cut out with the Big Shot and Layering Circles Framelits as was the mat that’s Smoky Slate before being attached to the cardfront with dimensionals.  The final touch was to add a pretty knot I tied using the Silver Satin Ribbon.

With a nice big bold greeting like this it’s easy to let it take center stage and let the other pieces compliment the greeting.  Fun colors that are great for all kinds of occasions.  The other design team members have shared some great cards using these colors for inspiration so go check them out and then we would love for you to come play along!

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today’s card:



Enjoy!
Diana
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Sunday, November 6, 2016

30 Day Gratitude Challenge: Day 6

Happy Sunday!  This morning I’m running the Across the Bay 10K which a friend (it’s our 3rd year running and it’s a great race!)  Because of this we headed to Annapolis and were able to enjoy the city a little yesterday and got a little extra sleep due to Daylight Saving’s Time (yeah!)  After the race we’re heading out on a mini getaway which should be lots of fun.  Despite all the crazy fun I’m still keeping up with the 30 Day Gratitude challenge and have a really fun and simple card that’s perfect for any occasion.

I started with Soft Suede cardstock for the cardbase and used the Project Life Corner Rounder Punch to round all the corners (as usual when I round the corners of a card I round the corners of all the card layers as well to compliment).  Next I added a piece of Whisper White cardstock that was embossed with the Big Shot and Softly Falling Embossing Folder.  Next I took a piece of Dapper Denim DSP from the 2016-2018 In Color Designer Series Paper Stack and wrapped a piece of Sweet Sugarplum 3/8” Ruched Ribbon around the DSP.  I used a piece of the same ribbon, as well as a piece of Emerald Envy 3/8” Ruched Ribbon to tie a knot on the ribbon.

For the greeting I used the Grateful Bunch stamp set and stamped the greeting in Sweet Sugarplum ink on Whisper White cardstock and cut it out with the Big Shot and Layering Ovals Framelits.  I made a mat for the greeting using the same framelits and Emerald Envy cardstock and attached the greeting to the cardfront with dimensionals.

I absolutely adore this pattern in the designer series paper stacks using all the works with it’s fun font and am so happy it’s available in all our core and In Colors to use on anything (and everything!!)  The In Color Ruched ribbon is also nice and soft so it’s the perfect accent.

Below are easy ordering links for the products used on today’s card:



 Take care!
Diana
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