Stampin' Fun with Diana

Sketch Challenge - Mixed Bouquet

2012-02-19T21:55:00.000-05:00

Good evening! We've had another fun-filled weekend. Saturday we had Aidan's bowling birthday party so we had 10 kids who all had a blast on the lanes (the best way to describe it was "herding cats" but everyone had a great time and that's all that matters). Today we've been waiting for this "snow storm" we're supposed to get but it didn't start snowing until about 7:30 tonight so we'll have to see what we end up with in the morning. I spent the day planning of fabulous projects for Laura's workshop on Saturday was well as making a sketch card for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge. I drew the colors from for this weeks card from the Twitterpated designer series paper and was excited to show off the new Mixed Bouquet stamp set from the Occasions Mini catalog. The cardbase is Baja Breeze and I added a piece of Basic Gray cardstock as well as a couple of strips of Twitterpated DSP. You may have noticed the funky border on the Riding Hood Red patterned paper -- I got that by using a scrap of DSP from when I cut a box with the Fancy Favor XL die.

For the printed circle accent I stamped in Basic Gray ink on Basic Gray cardstock with the En Francis stamp set, then I cut the circle out with the Clear circle Big Shot die before sponging the edges of the circle with the same ink. I also added a strip of Riding Hood Red 3/8" pleated satin ribbon. For the flower I stamped with the Mixed Bouquet stamp set and Island Indigo ink, once on Whisper White cardstock and again on Riding Hood Red cardstock and used the new Blossom punch to punch out both flowers to be layered. I used my bone folder to shape the petals so they flip up. Next I stamped one of the circle images from the same stamp set with Riding Hood Red ink on Riding Hood Red cardstock and punched it out with the 3/4" circle punch. I added add a Pear Pizzaz Glimmer Brad to the center of the flower and the final touch was to add a small butterfly that was cut out with the Beautiful Wings Embosslit. (Check out a close up to the right)

The last step was to stamp the happy birthday greeting from the Happiest Birthday Wishes stamp set with Pear Pizzaz ink. I used snips to cut the ends of the strip to make it look like a flag and once again used my bone folder and glue dots to add some "ripple" to the banner. Now here's the sketch, I have to admit this wasn't how I envisioned the card when I first started but I really like how it turned out.

Hope you enjoy and have a great week!

Diana

Happy 7th Birthday Aidan!

2012-02-15T07:00:00.003-05:00

Good morning! Today we're so excited to be celebrating Aidan's 7th birthday. I know every parent says this but it really does seem like just yesterday we brought him home from the hospital. He's such a good kid and we're so proud of the person he's becoming. Like me, Aidan loves to plan things in advance and has had all the details of his special day planned for months. I always like to make him a special birthday card and I think he will love this one. It uses the Party This Way Stamp set (you can earn it FREE during Sale-a-bration) and cut out 7 balloons, one for each year. I randomly stamped the Happy Birthday greeting on the background with Pacific Point, Tangerine Tango, Daffodil Delight, and Old Olive ink before running it through the Big Shot with the Perfect Polka Dot embossing folder on the top 2/3's of the card. I used Lucky Limeade and Island Indigo baker's twine for the balloon strings and Old Olive 1/4" grosgrain ribbon for the bow.

The "Look who's turing greeting is from the Look Who's Turning stamp set and I cut number 7 out with the Timeless Type Junior Alphabet die. I love how this card turned out and know Aidan will love it as well. Before I sign off I have so share a couple of pictures of the birthday boy.

Here's Aidan (10 day's old)!

Here's the birthday boy now!

Have a great day,

Diana

Happy Valentine's Day Treat!

2012-02-14T08:05:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day! I'm so excited, not only do I love this holiday but it is also Aidan's "birthday eve" so we're in for a whole week of celebrating. Today I wanted to share the treat I made for Chris. For those of you who know Chris he really dislikes this holiday and thinks it was created by the card, flower, and candy companies to make money (and he does have a point) but he embraces the holiday because he knows Aidan and I love it (he's definately a keeper). So this year I wanted to give him a little treat that I knew he would love and his favorite candy are caramel cremes so I made this box with the Fancy Favor die and decorated in manly Real Red DSP and black (it also happens to match the card I made him and showed on Sunday). I cut the hearts with the new Hearts framelits (love how easy they are) and spritzed the black heart with shimmer spray I made with the Champagne shimmer paint.

The strawberry is from the P.S. I Love You stamp set and I colored directly on the stamp with Old Olive, Real Red, and Chocolate Chip to get the three colors stamped at the same time. Next I added some Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Details to the top of the berry and Crystal Effects to the dipped chocolate part so it looks shiny and wet. The final touchwas the greeting (this saying is awesome!) that is from the same stamp set and I snipped the edge to make it look like a flag.

I love how this turned out and think he'll really like that his favorite candy is in it.

Hope you have a fantabulous day and get to spend some time with your loved ones.

Enjoy,

Diana

I Can't Stop Making Valentine's!

2012-02-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning friends! I have to say, I absolute love valentine's day (who doesn't love any reason to show your loved one's what they mean to them). I also have to admit that I can't stop using the new P.S. I Love You stamp set, there are so many great imagines that I've only worked my way through about half of them. I designed this card for our team meeting last month and it was so fun and easy to make. The cardbase is Pink Pirouette and I added a piece of Twitterpated designer paper along with a piece of Going Grey cardstock that I ran through the Big Shot with the Striped embossing folder. A piece of Baja Breeze 3/8" pleated satin ribbon was used to cover where the two pieces of paper meet. The greeting was stamped with Going Grey and Riding Hood Red ink and was punched out with the Modern label punch, popped up with dimensionals, and pearls were added for a decorative touch.

The hearts were so fun to make, the small one was stamped from the P.S. I Love You stamp set and punched out with the Heart punch. I also used the same stamp set to stamp the circle before punching it out. The large heart was made using another pattern from the Twitterpated DSP package and the new Heart Framelits. These are so fun and easy, you're able to cut out multiple sizes of hearts quick and easy and position them anywhere, you've got to try these out!

What a fun card, hope you enjoy!

Diana

Sketch Challenge - P.S. I Love You

2012-02-12T21:59:00.000-05:00

Good evening friends! So we were reminded this weekend that it's still winter and got a good dose of cold, wind, and even a little snow, which made it a great weekend to hang out at home and relax with the family. We also put the finishing touches on all the valentine gifts for classmates and family for the upcoming holiday so it was only fitting that my card for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge be a valentine. I've been struggling to come up with card for my husband, that wasn't "girly" and decided that this sketch, with the P.S. I Love You stamp set would be perfect.

I started with a Real Red cardbase and took a piece of Whisper White cardstock and ran it through the Big Shot with the Perfect Polka Dot embossing folder for the background. I stamped three images that were punched out with the 1 1/4" square punch and then punched out three squares with Going Grey cardstock with the 1 3/8" square punch. The greeting in the bottom left is also from the same stamp set and was punched out with the Modern Label punch and popped up with dimensionals. I also added pearls as a final touch. The accent in the top left was made with a piece of Basic Black cardstock punched with the Decorative Label punch and folded in half around the edge. I used a Real Red button from the Brights Button pack and a bow was tied with a piece of Cherry Cobbler bakers twine.

So what do you think? This sketch was so fun and versatile. I love how the card turned out and think Chris will like it as well. Hope you have a good week and a happy valentine's day!

Enjoy,

Diana

February Stamp-a-stack: Sneak Peak Projects

2012-02-08T07:00:00.013-05:00

Happy Wednesday! Today I wanted to share a picture of some of the projects we'll be making at this Sunday's Stamp-a-stack. We'll be making a total of 5 different cards so you'll need to register for the class to see the other 2 cards. These are so fun, one uses the so fun new Twitterpatted fabric, another uses the "kissing" technique with the Medallion stamp, and another is a card we made at last month's regional (there are two fun techniques on this card that you won't want to miss out on). We'll also be starting the Christmas card option (yes I know it's only February) but you can make 3 cards each class so your all set for next year.

There's still to register so contact me soon to reserve your spot!

Enjoy,

Diana

Aidan's Valentines for Vets

2012-02-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning!
So some of you may know that Aidan's at a traditional school, which he loves, and one of the things that they focus on is community service. Right now one of the projects is Valentine's for Vets and as soon as I heard about this I loved it. So I cut all the paper and we had fun punching out tons of hearts and had a great time. Aidan did so well I thought I would share with you a couple of his cards. The great thing about a lot of the Stampin' Up! products is that they are easy enough for kids to use and still make really nice looking cards. We had a ton of fun and Aidan enjoyed writing special messages in each of the cards.

Sketch Challenge - Gnome Sweet Gnome

2012-02-06T18:34:00.000-05:00

Good evening friends! We had another fun weekend and I was able to spend several hours each day in studio and was a valentine making fool (the hearts and glitter were flying!) I managed to take a break from valentines to make this weeks Stamping 411 sketch card and since it was Sunday and we were getting ready to head over to friends to watch the SuperBowl I decided that the perfect stamp was the Gnome Sweet Gnome stamp set since I was "hangin' with my gnomies!"

The color combination is from the Everyday Enchantment DSP that you can get for FREE during Sale-a-bration (love it!) The card base is Pool Party and I used Calypso Coral behind the strip of DSP that I punched out with the Scallop Border punch. The ribbon is Pool Party ruffled ribbon, which is so fun and flirty. The lucky limeade cardstock behind the image was run through the Big Shot with the Perfect Polka Dot embossing folder and then the edges were distressed with the distressing tool.

The main stamped image was stamped in Basic black and colored in with Stampin' Write markers. The grass was stamped with Lucky Limeade ink and the rock in Basic Gray. The greeting is from the Gnomenclature stamp set and was punched out with the word window punch and matted with the modern label punch (it's also popped up with dimensionals).

This card turned out soo cute and Aidan thought it was really funny so I definately count this as a success.

Hope you enjoyed!

Diana

Candy Heart Greetings

2012-02-01T07:00:00.023-05:00

Good evening friends. I had some technical difficulties blogging while I was in San Antonio so I still have a couple of projects to share. This is a cute card that uses the Candy Conversation single stamp from the Occasions Mini catalog. I took the color combination: Pear Pizzaz, Blushing Bride, Marina Mist, Going Gray, and Perfect Plum from the Nursery Nest DSP. I colored the different candy hearts directly on the rubber so each one was different but only had to stamp it once. I also used the Silver glimmer paper (love that it is still available) and was punched with the scallop border punch. The final touch was using the paper piercer and mat pack to punch the holes in the corners.

It's funny what catches someone's eye, while I liked this card there were definately other swaps I made that I thought were WOW'd but this was the first card that I ran out of and the ladies loved it, go figure.

I've been having so much fun making tons of valentine's projects for gift giving so say tuned for more ideas and if you haven't started making your cards and gifts contact me to order all your Stampin' Up! supplies.

Enjoy!

Sale-a-Bration Has Arrived! Elementary Elegance

2012-01-24T07:00:00.039-05:00

Good morning and happy Tuesday! I'm very excited because today is the first day of Sale-a-bration, Stampin' Up!s biggest sale of the year! I love this sale and all the great products we can earn for FREE. This card uses three of the exclusive items available during this promotion. The stamp set is Elementary Elegance and I love it. The scroll pattern in stamped on Crumb Cake cardstock with Soft Suede Ink. Then I stamped the coordinating greeting on Very Vanilla with Calypso Coral ink, punched out with the Curly Label Punch, and sponged with Soft Sky. I used Poppy Parade cardstock for the cardbase and used the new Adorning Accents embossing folder to emboss the scroll along the bottom. Next a took a piece of Everyday Enchantment DSP and used the coordinating Adorning Accents Edglet die to cut the DSP with the same scroll. The final touch was to punch a strip of Soft Sky cardstock with the Lace Ribbon Border Punch. I threaded a piece of 1/8" Lucky Limeade organza ribbon through the punched paper from the Everyday Enchantment ribbon bundle.

I love this card, it definately has a vintage feel that's simple yet elegant, all at the same time. I'm definately going to have fun using these great new items, so make sure you don't miss out.

Enjoy!

Birthday Candy Treat

2012-01-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

What an amazing week! I've had a great time and feel so energized and can't wait to get back home and share all the great ideas I gained, you won't want to miss out. Today's swap is a 3D candy box designed for birthday treats but can easily be adapted to any occasion. I used the Petite Pocket XL die, added a few score lines and in no time you have this perfect box. I decorated it with Big Top Birthday DSP and a cupcake from the Create-a-cupcake stamp set and matching cupcake punch. A glittery cherry on top is the perfect finish!

As you can see when you open the flap you see the chocolates that a wrapped in the mathing DSP, love it! These were so easy and fun to make, I definately see more of these in my future. Enjoy!

Valentine's Greeting

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning! As you read this I'm on my way to the airport heading to San Antonio and Stampin' Up!s Leadership Conference, and I have to tell you I'm so excited. Not only will I enjoy a few days with some fabulous ladies but the beautiful weather is definately something to be happy for. Just like convention I thought I would share with you each day some of the swaps I made and will be sharing with my fellow demonstrators. Today's card is another valentine (yeah I know!) and features the new P.S. I Love You stamp set from the Occasions Mini catalog as well as the new Hearts Collection cutters and edge embossing folders.

This card has lots of texture, after cutting out the large black heart I embossed it with the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder and then sprayed it with shimmer mist. The smaller hear is Very Vanilla and was first stamped with the En Francis stamp set in Crumb Cake, then the edges were sponged with Crumb Cake, and then the cubid was embossed with Cherry Cobbler embossing powder.

The designer paper is Timeless Portrait and was cut with the Scallop Trim border punch. The ribbon is Cherry Cobbler Polka Dot scallop ribbon and I flipped over so it was a solid color.

I created this card for an organized swap I'm in and I can't wait to see what everyone thinks of it because I love it!

Enjoy and have a great day,

Diana

Lovely Letterpress Plates

2012-01-10T07:00:00.047-05:00

Happy Tuesday! Today I have another Valentine to share with you from a team swap I participated in in November and forgot to share. The key to this card is the letterpress plates and the Big Shot, where the letterpress plate debosses the image and pushes the ink into the cardstock. Also, with all the guys in our house I really wanted to make a card that didn't have lots of pink, girly stuff. This card uses the Lots of Love letterpress plate, Versamark ink, and Marina Mist cardstock. The stamped image uses the I {Heart} Hearts stamp set and Petite Pairs (for the greeting).

Then I added a couple of tags with the Real Red 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, and 3 hearts punched with the Small Heart Punch and Red and Silver Glimmer Paper (I was so happy the Silver Glimmer paper was on the carryover list from the holiday mini catalog). This card is pretty simple but has lots of textures that are fun.

Hope you enjoy and have a great day,

Diana

P.S. I Love You - Sketch Challenge

2012-01-08T21:10:00.000-05:00

Good evening! What a start to the new year. We've enjoyed having the unusually mild weather this weekend and catching up with friends. I've also been frantically working on swap cards for Stampin' Up!s upcoming Leadership Conference and still have a ways to go. I also decided to get back into the routine with the Stamping 411 sketch challenges and loved the possibilities with this weeks sketch and decided it would be perfect to highlight the new P.S. I Love You stamp set from the Occasions Mini Catalog. I embossed a piece of Basic Gray cardstock with the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder before adhering it to the Cherry Cobbler cardbase. Then I took a piece of Twitterpated designer paper and matted it with Basic Black cardstock that was punched with the Scallop Trim border punch on both sides and cut the "v" notch out of the bottom.

The main stamped image uses Basic Gray, Cherry Cobbler, and Blushing Bride ink to stamp the various images from the P.S. I Love You stamp set. The strawberry image was colored directly on the rubber stamp with Pear Pizzaz, Cherry Cobbler, and Chocolate Chip ink before stamping. Then I decided to add Crystal Effects to the chocolate parts of the strawberries to make them look wet and glossy, and the new Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Details to the tops of the strawberries for they sparkle (check it out in this close up image).

Now check out the sketch challenge we were provided. I love this card and it's so beautiful in person, the texture and sparkle is fabulous. I've officially embraced Valentine's day, our decorations are up (yes, we even have red lights in Aidan's room and on the fireplace mantle), and I'm working on several valentine's projects right now.

Hope you enjoy and have a great week!

Diana

12 Days of Christmas Stockings - Day 12

2011-12-25T20:06:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas! What a fabulous day, we've spent the day at home spending time together and playing with all our new toys, Aidan has been going none stop. I hope you've had a great day as well. So I'm a little late in posting the last stocking of the series since I haven't been on the computer what I wanted to pop on to share this stocking with you since it turned out so well. The stocking was cut from the Frostwood Lodge designer paper and the cuff, heel, and toe are Early Espresso and was embossed with the houndstooth embossing folder. Then I added strings of pearls around the edges to make it really shine. The tree is Wild Wasabi and was cut with the Stocking accent die and then I used Dazzling Details to highlight the edge of the tree. The greeting is from the Christmas Lodge stamp set and was stamped with Cherry Cobbler ink and the edges were sponged with Early Espresso ink. I had a scrap piece of another pattern of DSP that was 1/2" wide and had already been scored with the Simply Scored every 1/4" inch (from another project) so I cut it down to 6" long and created a tiny lolly to add behind a Wild Wasabi button. I used Early Espresso baker's twine to tie a bow on the front of the button. This stocking is definately one of my favorite but I couldn't stop adding things to it.

I hope you enjoy the rest of your Christmas, I think I'm going to have an early night tonight since I need to go shopping tomorrow morning (can't believe I've depleted by stash of wrapping paper, etc) before our family arrives tomorrow, definately another fun day ahead.

Take care,

Diana

12 Days of Christmas Stockings - Day 11

2011-12-24T07:55:00.000-05:00

Happy Christmas Eve! I hope you are enjoying time with you're family, we're just relaxing today and finishing up last minute details for tomorrow. Today's stocking is a fun one, I thought it would be clever to decorate a stocking with a stocking, haha! The stocking was cut with the Silver Glimmer Paper and the cuff, heel, and toe are Cherry Cobbler cardstock that was embossed with the Snowburst Embossing folder. The letters are cut with the Timeless Type Junior Alphabet die and Silver Glimmer paper. The stocking accent was a breeze with the Stocking Builder punch and Early Espresso cardstock. The cuff, heel, and toe were cut with the same punch and the Frostwood Forest designer paper. This stocking is so cute and easy to make, Aidan had a blast using this punch. The sad news is that Stampin' Up! announced this week that they will NOT be carrying over this punch to the next catalog so the punch is only available while supplies last so make sure to get yours now, before you miss out. I know this punch will definately be staying in the studio, I love it!

Enjoy the rest of your day and have a Merry Christmas!

Diana

12 Days of Christmas Stockings - Day 10

2011-12-23T07:00:00.027-05:00

Friday has finally arrived, which means it's my last day of work for the year, yeah!!! My company has it's Christmas lunch today and Chris and Aidan will be coming in and joining me. Aidan has been looking forward to the party for weeks, he loves looking at the planes in the hanger and kites in the atrium. Today's stocking is another fun one, it's started with Early Espresso cardstock that was embossed with the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder and the cuff, heel, and toe are from the Holly Berry Bouquet Speciality Designer paper. I added a trim of scallops along the cuff with Red Glimmer paper. Next I used the Stocking accent die to cut out the candy cane and cut out two pieces, one in Whisper White, and another in Red Glimmer Paper. There are perforated lines on the candy cane so I cut the strips from the Red Glimmer paper piece and glued them to the white candy cane to create the stripes. The final touch is a bow made from Old Olive 1/8" taffeta ribbon. Another fun one, I can't seem to stop making these, only two more days to go. See you tomorrow!

12 Days of Christmas Stockings - Day 9

2011-12-22T07:00:00.013-05:00

Happy Thursday! Today is the last day of school for Aidan and he's so excited. I'm just popping in for a quick post to share todays stocking which is nice and simple. I used Real Red cardstock for the stocking and embossed it with the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder (yes, I am addicted to embossing, love it!). The cuff, heel, and toe were cut out of the Holly Berry Bouquet Speciality Designer paper and I love this print since the polka dots are glittered. The ribbon bow is made with the fabulous Very Vanilla velvet ribbon and I used the Northern Frost decorative strip to cut out a Marina Mist snowflake. A nice, simple rhinestone was added to the center of the snowflake for a little sparkle. Enjoy!

12 Days of Christmas Stockings - Day 8

2011-12-21T07:00:00.001-05:00

Cheerful good morning greetings! Only 4 more days to Christmas, I can't wait for some quality family time. Today's stocking definitely reminds me of pictures I remember seeing as a kid and has lots of layers and texture. The main stocking is Very Vanilla and embossed with the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder and the cuff, heel, and toe are cut out of Red Glimmer paper (it's no secret how much I love glitter!). For the decoration I started with a piece of Basic Black cardstock that I ran through the Big Shot with the Decorative Frames oval embossing folder and then cut around the oval with Paper Snips. The next layer is a piece of Crumb Cake designer paper that was punched out with the decorative label punch. Then I used the large oval punch to punch out another piece of Red Glimmer paper. The little boy image was cut out of the Timeless Portrait designer paper and then sponged around the edges with Crumb Cake ink.

The snowflake was cut out with the Northern Frost decorative strip die and sponged with Crumb Cake ink before adding a small Black circle to the center and one of the new extra large halfback pearls (that will be available in January). I got the idea for this stocking from a gift tag I received from Rufina Ebersol at a retreat I went to in October, I loved it so much check it out here. Hope you enjoy and see you tomorrow!

12 Days of Christmas Stockings - Day 7

2011-12-20T21:30:00.000-05:00

Good evening! I'm a little late posting today but it's been nonstop all day. Today's stocking is full of bling and glitz which I love. I cut the stocking out of Early Espresso Cardstock and the cuff, toe, and heel out of Garden Green Cardstock that was embossed with the Snow Burst embossing folder. My go-to die for letters, the Timeless Type Junior Alphabet die was used cut the word "Cheer" out of Red Glimmer paper. The final touch was to add rhinestones to the edges of the cuff, toe, and heel, bling is always a good thing. Enjoy!

12 Days of Christmas Stockings - Day 6

2011-12-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday! It's the last work week of the year (I love that my company shuts down the week between Christmas and New Years so we have some fun family time planned). Today's stocking was a lot of fun to make. I cut the stocking out of Very Vanilla Cardstock. Then I used my brayer to apply Cherry Cobbler ink to the inside of my Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder, that way, when I ran it through the Big Shot the raised image stayed Vanilla while the rest of cardstock was antiqued with the ink. The cuff, heel, and toe are Early Espresso and embossed with the Snow Burst embossing folder. Just like the stocking on Day 1 I cut out the NOEL letters with the Timeless Type Junior Alphabet die, this time using Cherry Cobbler cardstock. This stocking is so elegant and also is one of my favorite color combinations, especially this time of year. This is a great technique that can be used on cards, scrapbook papers, 3D items, etc. Enjoy!

12 Days of Christmas Stockings - Day 5

2011-12-18T07:00:00.001-05:00

I'm back today with another simple stocking. This one uses the same Frostwood Lodge designer series paper as yesterday, just another pattern. This time I used the Vintage Wallpaper Embossing folder with Garden Green cardstock. The ribbon is Cherry Cobbler 3/8" quilted satin ribbon (I love the feel of this ribbon and will feel sad when it goes away when the Holiday mini catalog ends, I may have to stock up. I'm really looking forward to hanging out with the boys today and just relaxing and can't believe Christmas is one week from day. Hope you enjoy your day as well!

12 Days of Christmas Stockings - Day 4

2011-12-17T07:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome back and I hope you're enjoying the start to your weekend. I'm so proud of Aidan after his belt test last night, it's always amazing that I seem to more stressed out than he is when he tests. We're back with another stocking today and this time I used Real Red cardstock for the main part of the stocking that I embossed with the Snow Burst Embossing folder. The cuff, toe, and heel are made with the Frostwood Lodge designer paper. The "Joy" letters are cut with Red Glimmer paper (can't get enough of this stuff) with the Timeless Type Junior Alphabet die. Nice and simple today. See you again tomorrow!

12 Days of Christmas Stockings - Day 3

2011-12-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday! I don't know about you but I'm definately glad the work week is almost over. I'm looking forward to a fun family weekend we have Aidan's belt test tonight, a couple of Christmas parties, and holiday baking which is sure to be fun. Today's stocking is a classic, it uses the Holly Berry Bouquet Speciality Designer paper and the great thing about this paper is that two prints, including the polka dots is that it's glittery and so pretty in person. I used the Houndstooth embossing folder on the cuff, toe, and heal. The holly pieces were cut with the coordinating Stocking Accents Originals Die with Garden Green and Real Red cardstock. The bow is made with the fabulous Early Espresso 3/8" quilted satin ribbon and a clear rhinestone brad.

I love how this stocking turned out it has lots of layers of texture which really makes it pop. What will be in store tomorrow....you'll have to come back to see.

Enjoy!

12 Days of Christmas Stockings - Day 2

2011-12-15T07:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome back! What a great day yesterday, Aidan's class had a last minute field trip to ICE! at the Gaylord National. He was so excited and couldn't stop talking about all the great ice sculptures to Merry Madagascar. This field trip was great because he had decided not to go this year and I felt bad since I knew how much fun Aidan had so it was great he got to experience it this year with his friends. Today's stocking uses the Frostwood Lodge designer paper and Real Red cardstock. The Real Red cuff, heel, and toe were embossed with the Snow Burst embossing folder. I love the embellishments on this stocking, first there are lots of Rhinestones on the edges (who doesn't love a little bling!) The Wild Wasabi button is from the Holly Bouquet designer buttons and Whisper White baker's twine is threaded through the button holes and tied in a bow. On each of the bow tails I tied mini jingle bells which are soo cute!

This stocking is so classic but dressed up a notch. Thanks for stopping by and hope to see you tomorrow.

12 Days of Christmas Stockings - Day 1

2011-12-14T07:00:00.002-05:00

Good morning! When I first saw the holiday mini catalog at convention this summer one of the first things that I saw and knew I had to have was the stocking die for the Big Shot. I knew I wanted to make lots of stockings to decorate the studio show off how easy these were. I cut lots of these stockings before we headed to the beach on vacation with every intention of assembling and decorating the stockings at the beach, that was before the hurricane and our evacuation. I didn't get all the stockings made and am still working on them. I decided to hold a 12 Days of Christmas stocking event starting today so you'll get to see a new stocking every day.

Today's stocking uses the Holly Bouquet Speciality designer paper, Wild Wasabi cardstock, and Red Glimmer paper. The Wild Wasabi cuff, heel, and toe were embossed with the Snow Burst embossing folder and the Red Glimmer paper was punched with the Scallop Edge punch. The letters were cut out of Early Espresso cardstock with the Timeless Type Junior Alphabet die.

I love how easy these stockings come together, there wasn't even stamping. An added bonus that when I glue a second stocking to the back it creates pocket, perfect for gift cards and small treats. I hope you enjoyed today's stocking and check back each day for a new stocking.

Hand-Penned Holidays - Sketch Challenge

2011-12-12T21:29:00.000-05:00

Good evening! I simply can not believe how quickly this month is going, Christmas is less than two weeks away and my to do list seems to be growing faster than I can check things off. I must admit that with all the Chrismas projects I've been working I was very excited to take a break to try out items from my Occasions mini catalog preorder items and make this beautiful Valentine's day card for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge.

The stamp set for this weeks card is Hand-penned Holidays from the mini catalog but I used lots of goodies from the upcoming mini catalog, including: Twitterpatted designer series paper, Twitterpated designer buttons, Cherry Cobbler Baker's Twine, Fashionable Hearts Embosslit die, the fabulous Adorning Accents edgelit dies, and the Adorning Accents textured embossing folders.

These edgelits were so fun, first I used the edgelit and ran it through the Big Shot to cut the paper, then I used the coordinating embossing folder to emboss the mirror cut along the edge, so fun and easy!

I love how this card turned out it's absolutely beautiful! It was also very refreshing to change things up a little. Hope you enjoy and just think, you can get your hands on the items in the new mini catalog in three weeks!

Enjoy,

Diana

December Stamp-a-Stack

2011-12-08T07:00:00.019-05:00

Good morning! I'm so excited to share with you some of the cards for this months stamp-a-stack class. To change things up we're going to do a One Sheet Wonder class where we use on sheet of paper with the same design and colors to create 8 different cards. The great thing about this is the veratility to create cards for any occasion.

There's still time to register for this Sunday's class so I hope to see you there.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Diana

Petite Pairs - Sketch Challenge

2011-12-07T20:50:00.000-05:00

Good evening friends. I don't know about you but this week has definately gotten away from me. We have activities everynight and on top of that I've had some really hot items at work. Despite all of this I really enjoy participating in the Stamping 411 challenges each week and I loved this weeks sketch since it was clean and simple and a great opportunity to spotlight some of our great designer paper. This card uses the Berry Blossoms DSP which is bright and cheery and great break from all the Christmas projects I've been working on.

This card also uses three of the new fabulous in colors: Lucky Limeade, Wisteria Wonder, and Calypso Coral, as well as the fun new ruffled ribbon. This card is really straight forward, the greeting is from the Petite Pairs stamp set and uses the small oval punch (retired) and oval punch.

This card is so bright and cheery it will definately brighten someone's day. I hope you enjoy the card and feel free to have fun playing with this sketch yourself.

Happy stamping,

Diana

Bells and Boughs - Sketch Challenge

2011-11-27T21:23:00.000-05:00

Good evening! I hope you all had an enjoyable holiday weekend. We had a fantastic time visiting friends and Aidan had a great time playing with his "cousins" and was sad when it was time to go. We were also able to be out for Black Friday shopping and had a great time nabbing some great deals in the middle of the night. I was very excited when I saw this weeks Stamping 411 challenge, not only is it pretty simple, but I'm known for keeping my designs pretty straight and inline and this card was fun to be a little "off kilter."

This card uses the Holly Berry Bouquet Speciality DSP as the focal point and to draw all the colors used. I also used the new Houndstooth embossing folder with the Big Shot on the Early Espresso layer for texture. The greeting is from the Bells and Boughs stamp set. I also used the Pines and Poinsettias stamp set and Wild Wasabi ink to stamp the background on the tag before punching it out with the Decorative Label punch. I used the Modern Label punch and the same DSP to punch out the backup tag and cut in half so I could extend them to show behind the greeting. The final touch is a small bow with the Real Red 1/8" taffeta ribbon.

This card is so pretty and simple that it would be great to make multiples and show off some of our fabulous designer series paper. I hope you enjoy and have a great week.

Happy stamping,

Diana

Gently Falling - Sketch Challenge

2011-11-20T22:33:00.000-05:00

Good evening! I hope you had a good weekend. I had a great time at a team meeting on Saturday and stamp class today as well as starting to put up Christmas decorations (I'm happy to report our tree is up, decorated, and beautiful). I saw a sample of this emboss resist technique at my meeting yesterday and knew it would be perfect for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge once I saw the sketch.

The card base is Crumb Cake with a piece of Spice Cake designer paper. The main focal image started with a piece of Very Vanilla cardstock. I used the En Francis stamp set and Crumb Cake ink to stamp the background words. Then I stamped the solid leaf image from the Gently Falling stamp set with Versamark ink and embossed it with Whisper White embossing powder. Then I used a stamping sponge to add Pear Pizzaz and Early Espresso ink around the leaf. I also sponged the edges with Crumb Cake ink.

The finished image was matted on an Early Espresso scallop square piece that I cut out with the Scallop Square Duo die and the Big Shot. The ribbon is Crumb Cake 3/8" taffeta ribbon and I used one of the Antique Brads in the center. The greeting is from the Petite Pairs stamp set, which is quickly becoming one of my new favorite greeting sets,that was punched out with the oval punch and sponged with Pear Pizzaz ink.

I love how this card turned out! It has so much dimension and texture.

I hope you enjoy and happy stamping!

Diana

Online Extravaganza - STARTS TOMORROW!!

2011-11-20T22:14:00.000-05:00

Online Extravaganza, Stampin' Up!'s annual sale to kick off the holiday shopping season, will begin TOMORROW, Monday, November 21, 2011, and run through Wednesday, November 30, 2011. You may place orders either through my Online Store or by e-mailing me directly at cdeichfeld@msn.com.

You'll want to be sure to log in to my Online Store on
Monday, November 21, to take advantage of great savings!

-FREE digital downloads valued at $40 when you buy My Digital Studio Express,
-60 percent off select Designer Fabrics,
-30 percent off an exclusive ribbon bundle!

And WOW - look at this!
There will be two items on sale for 24 hours only (November 21, 12:01 AM - 11:59 PM [MT]) That's 2:01 AM - 1:59 PM EST
-so make sure you don't miss the first 24 hours of Online Extravaganza!

I know I'll be setting my alarm for early tomorrow to make sure to check out this great sale!

Please let me know if you have any questions or need assistance.

Christmas Stamp-a-Stack

2011-11-15T13:08:00.000-05:00

Good afternoon! I wanted to drop by to share with you the projects for this weekends Stamp-a-Stack. You are going to LOVE this class, there are so many fun techniques, folds, accessories, and stamp sets and I can't wait to share them with you. Since this is a Christmas class we still have the add on option but will be making three everyday cards (they use the Spice Cake fabric which is so beautiful). Check them out below....

There's still time to register, but contact me soon to reserve your spot.!

Hope to see you Sunday,

Diana

Gently Falling and Spice Cake Thanksgiving Creations

2011-11-11T07:00:00.029-05:00

Good morning. As I've shared with you previously I have absolutely fallen in love with the new Gently Falling Stamp set and Spice Cake DSP. Today I have two things to share with you. The first is a thanksgiving card. I stamped the Very Vanilla cardstock with the different leaf images. Then I stamped the greeting from the Hand-Penned Holidays stamp set on a piece of vellum paper that I tore along the bottom. The final touch was a strip of Spice Cake DSP and then an Early Espresso 1/8" Taffeta ribbon bow. I made a whole batch of these cards so we're all set to send thanksgiving greetings.

The second project I have to share is a box I decorated for a thanksgiving gift using the Kraft boxes and Spice Cake DSP. I cut several pieces of DSP and mounted them on Soft Suede cardstock and added them to the sides and top of the box. Then I took a 2" x 12" strip of DSP and used the Simply Scored tool to create a lolly rosette. On top of that is a small scallop circle punched out of DSP and added a ribbon with a Very Vanilla 1/8" Very Vanilla taffeta ribbon knot.

These boxes are so easy and pretty I've made several other's for christmas gifts to be prepared for those last minute christmas gifts (the great thing is that the small Bath and Body Works candles fit perfectly in the box (easy peasy!)

Hope you enjoy,

Diana

Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps

2011-11-08T07:00:00.001-05:00

Good morning! So I wrote this weekend that we used Stampin' Up's new Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps this weekend and thought I would share some pictures and tips.

I used the Sugar Cookie receipe that was included with the stamp set. In the first batch (pictured below) I split the dough and colored half blue for the snowflakes. I stamped the dough balls right after making them. Making them this way they tended to spread more and have cracked edges.

This next picture is of a package I created with the cookies just to show a simple way to present them as gifts.

Saturday morning I made a second batch of dough and refridgerated the individual dough balls so the kids to stamp them during class. We also used a biscuit cutter to trim the edges to make them smooth. Both versions turned out great and taste great, like shortbread cookies.

These were fun to make and the kids had a blast. I preferred the cookies using the refrigerated dough and will definately be making them again.

Don't miss out on getting your cookie stamps, perfect for the upcoming holidays!

Enjoy,

Diana

Easy Events - Sketch Challenge

2011-11-06T21:27:00.000-05:00

What a beautiful weekend! I had a great class Saturday morning for kid's and had a great time making holiday gifts and cards (I think the chocolate was one of the highlights). We also got to make cookies with the new cookie stamps and have them for snack, yummy! I decided to carry on with the kids theme for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge and since we have two friends who had babies recently I thought baby cards would be perfect.

This card uses the Easy Events and Baby Bundle (greeting) stamp sets. The designer paper is Nursery Nest and I used it to get the color combination. The card is pretty straight forward, I used the 2 1/2" circle punch for the accent circle and Marina Mist 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon for the bow. Now check out the sketch we were provided...

Since I needed both a girl and a boy baby card I made two cards, and here's the boy version. These cards cards turned out so cute, I know the families will really enjoy them.

Hope you enjoy and have a great week!

Happy stamping,

Diana

Halloween Treats

2011-10-31T07:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween! I wanted to share with you two of the treats we made for the kids this Halloween. The first is a "smore" kit that has graham crackers, chocolate bars, and ghost Peeps. The toppers were quick and easy using the Warmest of Wishes and Teenie Tiny Wishes stamp set and the owl and moder label punches. The designer paper is Frightful Nights. These are going to be handed out to some of our neighbor friends.

The next treat is what we made for Aidan's classmates. The idea came from Monika Davis, see hers here. It recycles the brown packing paper that comes in our Stampin' Up shipping boxes and the clear scallop square die and Big Shot to create an envelope. After gluing the sides I ran each side through the crimper and then punched out the moon and bat. The owl is from the Warmest of Wishes stamp set and is then punched out with the owl punch. The final touch is the greeting from the Teenie Tiny Wishes stamp set. There's plenty of room in the packet for an eraser, pencil, and a couple pieces of candy (sure to have something for everyone to enjoy!)

Hope you have a fun and safe day!

Diana

Wicked Cool - Sketch Challenge

2011-10-30T22:29:00.000-04:00

Good evening! We had another weekend packed with family fun which included a rare October snow on Saturday (thankfully it didn't stick around but boy was it cold!) Tonight I had to finish up the last minute Halloween projects for tomorrow so I thought I would use this weeks Stamping 411 challenge for the last card I needed. This sketch is nice and easy which makes it easy to make multiple cards quickly and can be adapted for any occassion.

This card uses the Wicked Cool stamp set, Frightful Sight DSP, Basic Rhinestones, Old Olive 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Basic Black 3/8" Polka Dot Scallop Ribbon (using the reverse side), 1 3/8" circle punch, and the scallop circle punch.

Hope you enjoy and have a happy Halloween tomorrow!

Happy stamping,

Diana

Fun Little Spider Halloween Greetings

2011-10-27T07:00:00.001-04:00

Good morning! We're just a couple of days away from halloween, where has this month gone? Today I want to show you another halloween card I made for our family. When the new catalog was released in July I immediately knew I had to have the Kidoodles stamp set. The images are so cute and perfect for little ones and this spider in particular makes me giggle everytime I see it.

This card is pretty straight forward, here's a list of items I used:

Kidoodles Stamp Set

Big Shot

Spider Web Embossing Folder

Frightful Sights DSP

Whisper White, Cajun Craze, Old Olive, and Cherry Cobbler Cardstock

Basic Black 3/8" Polka Dot Scallop Grosgrain Ribbon

This card is sure to please. Hope you enjoy!

Happy Stamping,

Diana

Fun Little Spooky Bingo Bits

2011-10-25T07:00:00.001-04:00

Today's an exciting day, Aidan has his first 1st grade field trip and is heading to Belvedere Plantation to learn the life cycle of pumpkins. The funny thing is that I think he's just as excited to the bus to the plantation than the field trip itself (he told me this morning the bus is really cool because it has a bathroom, I guess it's the little things!) Anyway, today I wanted to share the card I make to give my little pumpkin on Halloween. Aidan loves getting handmade cards and is so appreciative of the effort people go through to make him something (soo sweet!) and I knew he would love some of the cute images from the new Spooky Bingo Bits stamp set.

This card came together really easy with the new 1" square punch and coordinating postage stamp punch. In addition this card uses the Frightful Sight DSP, Old Olive Satin Ribbon, and the ruffle is made with Cajun Craze cardstock that was punched with the eyelet border punch and then I ran it through the crimper a couple of times to help break down the fibers. Then I just folded the cardstock over to make the pleats. The final touch was a greeting from the Wicked Cool stamp set.

I love how cute this card turned out and can't wait to see Aidan's reaction.

Hope you enjoy and happy stamping!

Diana

Welcome Christmas - Sketch Challenge

2011-10-23T21:44:00.000-04:00

Happy Sunday! I had a great crafting weekend. I spent the last three days at the RemARKable Hot Retreat hosted by Janet Wakeland and loved spending time with some fabulously creative women and getting lots done (and very little sleep). One of the things I had to do was make my card for this weeks Stamping 411 challange and what better thing than having the option to use a stamp set that I don't own for this challenge, in this case Welcome Christmas.

The main image is stamped in early espresso, then I stamped the "Joy" saying over top with Wild Wasabi ink (which was stamped off first) to create a subtle effect. The DSP is Holly Berry Bouquet and I used some of the yummy Early Espresso 3/8" Quilted Satin Ribbon. The greeting is from the Perfect Punches stamp set and is punched out with the scallop circle punch. For the accent behind the greeting I punched out a snowflake using the snowflake punch and red glimmer paper. I had to cut apart the snowflake and attached the individual pieces behind the scallop circle so it would show up.

I love this card, very classic and so pretty in person with all the texture.

Hope you have a great week.

Happy stamping,

Diana

Merry & Type - Sketch Challenge

2011-10-19T20:43:00.000-04:00

Good evening! Where has the week gone? We have been running non-stop and Chris has been in California this week so we're really excited for him to get home tomorrow night. I've spent so much time making fall cards lately I was determined to make something different for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge. I loved the new Merry and Type stamp set since the July and I just received it in my last order and have been anxious to break it in.
I got the color scheme for the card from the Letters to Santa DSP (love it!) which includes Marina Mist, Old Olive, and Early Espresso. I also used the Big Shot to emboss the DSP strips into the Old Olive cardstock with the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder.

I also used Marina Mist 1/8" taffeta ribbon and the Basic Pearls to accent the greeting. The greeting uses the Petite Pairs stamp set and the decorative label punch to cut out the cute greeting tag. I saw this great technique on Patty Bennett's website check her video out HERE! What a fun way to use this punch!

This card is very pretty in person, love it!

Happy stamping,

Diana

Kid's Holiday Class - There's Still Time to Sign Up!

2011-10-16T20:57:00.000-04:00

This is a reminder that there is still time to sign up for the upcoming Kid's Holiday class. Check out the flyer below for all the details and contact me soon to reserve your spot!

Fall Picture Frame - Simply Scored Style

2011-10-12T07:00:00.002-04:00

One of the great new items that Stampin' Up! released with the Holiday Mini catalog was the Simply Scored Board. Now I will admit I have a score board from a competitor but never really used it since it didn't seem to work quite right. After seeing Stampin' Ups board at convention this summer I new I had to give this one a try and I have to admit, I love it! It seems like everywhere you look people are making wreaths with these pleated circles (called lollies) so I set out to make one of my own to get used to the board. After making about a dozen of these, which were a breeze I decided to make something different, so I decorated a picture frame which will match the grapevine pumpkins I made, check them out HERE!

Here are some close ups of the lollies and decorations (lots of buttons and ribbons!)

Here's a closeup of the greeting (uses the Day of Gratitude and Gently Falling Stamp sets, along with the decorative label punch).

I love how this frame turned out, now it's time to find the perfect picture.

Enjoy!

Diana

Gently Falling - Sketch Challenge

2011-10-09T21:09:00.000-04:00

Happy Sunday! What a beautiful weekend, I hope you were able to enjoy it. I must admit, I've definitely am in the mood for fall and can't stop using the Gently Falling stamp set so when I saw this weeks Stamping 411 sketch challenge I knew this would be perfect.

This card is pretty simple because of all the punches used but is beautiful in person.

So here's a list of what I used:
* Stamp set(s): Gently Falling, Teeny Tiny Wishes
* Paper: Very Vanilla, Pool Party, More Mustard, Early Espresso, Spice Cake DSP
* Ink: Early Espresso, More Mustard, Pear Pizzaz
* Accessories: 1/8" Early Espresso Taffeta Ribbon, 1 1/4" Circle Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, Modern Label Punch, Basics Brads and Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder.

This card sketch is so versatile and can be used for any occasion.

Have a great week!

Diana

House of Haunts - Sketch Challenge

2011-10-04T20:56:00.000-04:00

Happy Tuesday friends! Things are happy in the Eichfeld house tonight, Aidan is in bed and we just watched the Phillies win (one more to go, whoo hoo!) I'm back again with a card for this weeks Stamping 411 sketch challenge and decided to focus on halloween this week.

The cardbase is Old Olive and has a piece of Frightful Sight DSP on top which has been sponged around the edge with Cajin Craze classic ink. The main stamped image is a piece of Whisper White cardstock cut into an oval and is stamped with the haunted house from the House of Haunts stamp set and is stamped with Basic Black. Then I used a 1 1/4" circle punch to create a mask to sponge the moon image and house windows with Peach Parfait ink. Then I took the circle cut out and covered up the moon to sponge the rest of the cardstock with Peach Parfait, Old Olive, Cajin Craze, and Concord Crush inks. The border was created by using the eyelet border punch on a strip of Cajin Craze cardstock and then I ran it through the paper crimper multiple times to help breakdown the fibers. Next I ran a border of sticky strip around the back of the oval and started pleating the strip around the back of the oval.

The ribbon is Basic Black 1/8" taffeta ribbon that was wrapped around the DSP and then used for the bow as well. The words are from the new Spooky Bingo Bits stamp set that was punched out with the 1" circle punch and then matted with a 1 1/4" circle.

Such a fun card and so spooky for the holiday, hope you enjoy.

Happy stamping,

Diana

Christmas Lodge - Stamping 411 Sketch Challenge

2011-09-25T21:39:00.000-04:00

Good evening! We had a great weekend spending some fun family time together and hope you were able to have a restful weekend also. When I saw this weeks Stamping 411 challenge sketch I immediately knew the Christmas Lodge stamp set would be perfect.

The cardbase is Cherry Cobbler and then has a layer of Frostwood Lodge designer paper. The main image is a 3 1/2" circle of Whisper White cardstock and I stamped the house image after inking the stamp with Garden Green and Early Espresso Stampin' Write markers. Then I used the color spritzer and a Cherry Cobbler Stampin' Write marker to add speckles to the paper (this was my first time using the color spritzer and I'm still figuring it out, but it definately adds a fun element). The circle is then matted on an early espresso scallop circle that I cut out with the Big Shot and the Scallop Circle #2 die.

The greeting is from the stame stamp set and uses Garden Green classic ink. I used the ticket corner punch to punch the corners and then sponged Crumb Cake ink all over the cardstock. I used a bone folder to break the fibers of the cardstock and which made it easier to ribble the greeting. The final touch was a bow made with 3/8" Cherry Cobbler quilted satin ribbon and a rhinestone added to the "C" in the greeting.

This card is so pretty! The Christmas Lodge stamp set is quickly becoming one of my favorites from the Holiday mini catalog, you definately have to get this stamp set.

Have a great week!

Diana

Spice Cake - Petite Pockets Box

2011-09-23T07:00:00.001-04:00

Good morning!

Today I wanted to highlight one of our upcoming class projects since it matches the theme for the week. This box uses the Petite Pocket die and I got this idea from Fran Sabad on Stampin' Up!s Stampin' Connection website. I used both the Spice Cake DSP and fabric along with the Spice Cake Jumbo Buttons, and the Gently Falling stamp set. I also used the Day of Gratitude stamp set for the greeting.

I'm planning on using these for thanksgiving for both place cards and favors so this one has my son's name.

If you're local and want to make this project, along with four others don't forget to register for the Holiday Gift Class on October 8.

Enjoy,

Diana

Spice Cake Fall Decorations

2011-09-22T07:00:00.002-04:00

Good morning!

I was shopping recently at a local craft store and found these cute grapefine pumpkins that were prelite. As soon as I saw them I knew they would make a cute fall decoration. I simply took a piece of our Spice Cake fabric and tied a nice floppy bow. Then I stamped some leaves with the Gently Falling stamp set and cut them out with paper snips and tied them to the bow with Linen thread.

Here's a close-up of the fabric bow and leaves, so pretty!

I had planned to have these on my fireplace mantle but they look so cute in the studio with the blue walls I haven't moved them to the family room and may keep them a little while longer in the studio first.

Enjoy,

Diana

Grateful Wishes

2011-09-20T07:00:00.001-04:00

Today I wanted to share one of the cards we made a this months Stamp-a-Stack. This card showcases the Spice Cake designer paper and all it's beautiful colors. I also used the Houndstooth embossing folder and the big shot for the Soft Suede piece and the Pool Party Ruffled Ribbon.

The stamp sets used in this card is Day of Gratitude (for the thank you greeting) and the Warmest of Wishes Hostess Set. I colored in the wreath with markers and then used the 1 1/4" circle and scallop circle punch to cut it out.

Now check out the accent behind the scallop, that's called a "lolly." These seem to be all the rage right now and are super easy to make with the new Simply Scored Board from the Holiday Mini Catalog.

This is such a pretty card and I love all the texture.

Happy stamping,

Diana

Holiday Gift Class - Rescheduled so you still have time!

2011-09-19T07:00:00.005-04:00

I wanted to let you know that I've rescheduled this years Holiday Gift Class to Saturday, October 8 at 10:00 AM. This means you still have time to sign up for this fabulous class.

Below are the projects we'll be making and they are so much fun.

The class fee is $30 and as usual will include a light lunch. As an added bonus each attendee will receive to items to use in class and then you get to take them home so you can make additional items even easier!

Make sure to RSVP soon, the last day to register is September 28 or until the class is full!

Hope you can make it!

Diana

Gently Falling - Sketch Challenge

2011-09-18T21:01:00.000-04:00

Good evening! It's amazing how the weather has changed and fall is definately in the air. Because of our beautiful weather as soon as I saw the sketch for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge I knew I had to use the Gently Falling stamp set for the Holiday mini catalog. This has definately been one of my go to sets lately.

This card has a base of Pool Party Cardstock with a layer of Pear Pizzaz that I ran through the Big Shot with the Houndstooth Embossing Folder. The designer paper is Spice Cake and coordinates with the Gently Falling stamp set. I stamped the leaves and acorn on Very Vanilla cardstock and since these are two step stamps I didn't need to color them in I just stamped the color with the fill in stamp (I did use a blender pen and More Mustard ink to randomly add some additional texture on the leaves for fun). Then I cut out each of the leaves with paper snips.

The bow uses the fabulous new Early Espresso 3/8" Quilted Satin Ribbon (love the texture) and an orange Fire Crystal brad. The last touch was the greating from the Grateful Greeting stamp set that was punched out with the oval punch and then attached to the card with dimensionals. Now check out the challenge sketch....

This card is so pretty and is definately getting me in the mood for fall. I'll be sharing several other projects with the same product suite throughout the week so make sure to check back.

Have a great week!

Diana

Holiday Gift Class - Just a Few More Days to Register!

2011-09-11T21:19:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to drop a quick reminder that you only have a few more days to register for the upcoming Holiday Gift Class. Below is the flyer with all the details. All the projects are so fabulous you are not going to want to miss out!

Kidoodles - Sketch Challenge

2011-09-11T21:06:00.000-04:00

Good evening! The rain has finally stopped and we've been able to get out and enjoy the nice weather this weekend (love it!) In addition to spending time with my guys I was able to get some quality stamping time this weekend and had a great time with the ladies this afternoon. One of my projects was this weeks Stamping 411 challenge which was a fantabulous sketch this week, and I immediately thought of the new Kidoodles stamp set when I saw it. This set was one of my favorites in the new catalog, with such fun and light-hearted images.

This card also uses the Frightful Sight DSP, Spider Web Embossing Folder, Basic Black 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Metallic Brads, and the 1 3/4" Circle punch. What's that on the spider web you ask, that's the new Dazzling Details from the Holiday mini catalog (glitter in a bottle, who wouldn't love that?) that you just have to try.

Now here's the sketch provided by the 411 Operators, it is so versatile and easy to use.

I love this card, I'll definately be using this set again for other halloween projects.

Hope you enjoy and have a great week!

Diana

September Stamp-a-Stack

2011-09-09T23:28:00.000-04:00

Good evening! What a crazy week, it's amazing how the start of school turned out schedules upside and left us running to catch up. I wanted to share the projects we'll be making at this months Stamp-a-Stack, you are going to love them!

There's still time to join us on Sunday, just call or email me so everything will be all set.

It's been so much fun playing with all the fun new items from the Holiday mini catalog, you have got to try them out. One of my favorites the the new Simply Scored Board, it's so easy and I've been having fun making lollies all night tonight (I'm going to try to make a version of the wreath from the catalog so we'll see how it goes.

Have a great weekend!

Diana

Christmas Wishes

2011-09-06T12:32:00.000-04:00

Good morning!

I wanted to drop in to show you a sample with the great new stamp set from the Holiday Mini Catalog: Christmas Lodge. This set is definately going to be one of my favorites for the the upcoming holidays, it's so peaceful. Other than the fabulous lodge the other highlight of the card is the embossed piece. I used a brayer to ink up my Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder with Cherry Cobbler ink and ran a piece of Very Vanilla cardstock through the Big shot. The effect is absolutely beautiful because the raised images stay Vanilla and the rest of the card takes on the Cherry Cobbler ink.

Hope you enjoy and keep your eye out for other samples with this same set.

If you haven't received your copy of the Holiday Mini catalog and would like one please let me know and I can get one to you.

Thanks and have a great day!

Diana

Reminder -- Last Chance Designer Paper Sale and Occasions Mini Catalog Order

2011-08-30T20:16:00.000-04:00

Just a quick reminder that tomorrow is the last day to order from the Occasions Mini catalog so don't miss out on your favorite items.

Tomorrow is also the last day to take advantage of the Buy 3 Get 1 Free Designer Series Paper so now is the perfect time to stock up for all your crafting needs.

You can place your order online, just click the link to the right.

The Open Sea - Sketch Challenge

2011-08-28T20:55:00.000-04:00

What a crazy week! What started out as a nice relaxing family vacation at the beach ended up with an earthquake, evacuation of our beach home, and hunkering down for a hurrican at home. Through it all we managed to have some fun and stay safe which was the most important thing. Given the events of the week when I saw this weeks Stamping 411 challenge I immediately knew I needed to use The Open Sea stamp set. Not only will we be saying goodbye to this stamp set this week but it just seemed perfect for all that's been going on.

The card is pretty simple so I'm just going to list the items used:
- The Open Sea Stamp Set
- 2 3/8" Scallop Circle Punch
- Nautical Expedition DSP
- Brads
- Petal Cone Die and Big Shot
- Paper: Sahara Sand, Very Vanilla, Cherry Cobbler, Not Quite Navy
- Ink: Cherry Cobbler, Not Quite Navy, Crumb Cake, Early Espresso

Now check out the original sketch design. This card turned out exactly as I pictured and I'm going to miss this stamp set, it was one of my favorites for the Occasions Mini Catalog.

Well, it's back to work and the real work for us...looking forward to the Labor Day holiday next weekend!

Have a great week!

Diana

Occasions Alphabet - Sketch Challenge

2011-08-23T08:29:00.000-04:00

Good morning! What a beautiful day, we're currently vacationing in the OBX this week so I thought I would start by sharing the view I have as I type this post:

Absolutely awesome!

Anyway, before we left I was able to make my card for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge but didn't have time to post.

I drew the color combination for this card from the Timeless Portrait DSP (love it!). The colors are Cherry Cobbler, Island Indigo, Crumb Cake, and Very Vanilla. I sponged the edge of the cardbase and the DSP with Cherry Cobbler ink to add some depth. The ribbon is Island Indigo ruffled ribbon (fabulous) and I actually made a huge bow for behind the greeting. The greeting is from the Occasions Alphabet stamp set and was colored with Stampin' Write markers and then punched out with the Modern Label Punch. I cut a mat out with the Punch Windows Die and the Big Shot. The final step was attaching the greeting with dimensionals, due to the height of the ribbon I had to use a total of 8 dimensionals (4 on each end) to build up the layers and WOW does it stand out.

Now check out the sketch layout, love how simple this is and is perfect for several different options. I hope enjoy.

I thought I would end with a picture of the kids swimming last night, which they loved.

Have a great week!

Diana

Sketch Challenge - Sunny Fun

2011-08-14T21:52:00.000-04:00

Good evening. I love weekends where we get to hang out with family and friends and this weekend was one of those times and with the humidity taking a break it was actually enjoyable to spend time outside. Since the days are quickly ticking away to the end of summer I thought the Sunny Fun stamp set would be perfect to capture the summer times for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge.

The cardbase is Pool Party (love that name) with a piece of Daffodil Delight cardstock on top that I ran through the Big Shot with the Perfect Polka Dot embossing folder. The two strips of designer paper are from the Domestic Goddess DSP set which goes perfect with the Pool Party and Calypso Coral Ruffled Ribbon (you have see this ribbon in person).

The main image is stamped with the Sunny Fun set in Basic Black and then punched out with the 1 3/4" Circle Punch. I colored in the kids with a blender pen and Stampin' Write markers, and sponged the sky with Pool Party and Baja Breeze ink. The circle is matted on a 2 3/8" scallop circle punched out of Calyspo Coral, and white dots were added to each of the scallops with a White Gel pen. The final touch was stamping the greeting and then punching out with the modern label punch (half was tucked under the circle) and a rhinstone was added to add a little sparkle.

This card is so cute and summery.

Hope you enjoy and have a great week!

Diana

August Stamp-a-Stack

2011-08-11T08:51:00.000-04:00

Good morning!

What a beautiful morning, I love that we're getting a break from the heat and humidity. Just wanted to share some of the projects for this Sunday's Stamp-a-Stack. These are so great, and you're going to love them (check out that snow cone!)

There is one additional card that will be exclusive for those who attend so make sure you don't miss out. There's still time to RSVP so let me know if you want to attend!

Happy Stamping,

Diana

Amazing Promotion for the Month of August

2011-08-03T12:59:00.000-04:00

Stampin' Up! just announced a promotion as hot as the weather outside!! During the month of August when you purchase three packages of SU exclusive Designer Series Paper you get an additional package for FREE (a $10.95 value)! This is a great time to stock up on all the brand new Designer Series Paper in the new Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog or the Summer Mini (note: the specialty designer paper is not included in this promotion, sorry).

Contact me to place your order to go to my On-Line Store HERE and order immediately.

Sketch Challenge - Baby Shower Greetings

2011-07-31T21:36:00.000-04:00

Good evening! Wow it's been awhile since I've posted as I've been trying to get back into the swing of things after convention. We've been on the run since we got back and this weekend was actually first time I got down into the studio since before convention, boy did I miss it. When I saw this weeks Stamping 411 challenge sketch I knew it would be perfect for a baby shower I went to earlier this afternoon.

This card uses the Baby Bundle stamp set which I love because of all the little pieces that are included. For the background I ran a piece of Whisper White cardstock through the Big Shot with the Perfect Polka dots embossing folder before matting it on Chocolate chip cardstock and the Pink Piroutte cardbase. For the main stamped image I stamped the greeting with Chocolate chip ink and then colored the hearts in with Stampin' Write markers. I tied Certainly Celery 3/8" Taffeta ribbon around the cardstock before matting on Rose Red card stock and used the Scallop Trim border and corner punches on the mat.

For the accents I stamped and cut out several of little pieces and cut and colored them. 3 smaller pieces were glued to the bottom right corner. I punched holes in the 3 larger cutout pieces and used White Baker's Twine to tie them around the ribbon. The final touch are 3 silver brads in the top right corner.

This card turned out exactly like I pictured, love it! I love when I get to give a card I make to someone in person so I can see there reaction, it's too fun.

Hope you have a great week and happy stamping,

Diana

Heading Home

2011-07-17T07:00:00.001-04:00

What an amazing week! I have had so much fun and can’t wait to share all I’ve learned. Today we’re heading home, which is so nice. Today I wanted to share the scrapbook page I created (with the assistance of Michelle, thanks lady!!) for a swap I was in. I decided to make a birthday layout which would be friendly for either boys, girls, kids, or adults.

I have to tell you we crammed a lot of items into this page but they all ready work well together. It also uses a lot of products from the new catalog, including: Petite Pendant Build a Punch and Bring on the Cake DSP, as well as baker’s twine, red glitter paper, Early Espresso 1/8” Taffeta Ribbon, Silver brads, Simple Birthday Decorative Strip die, as well as well as 5 different punches. Here’s close up pictures of both the cupcakes and pendants.

I have to say I love how this turned out, even if it did take a lot of time to complete. I can’t wait to just add pictures and have my layout already done.

Have a great day!

Diana

Christmas and Bookmarks, oh my!

2011-07-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

What a fabulous Friday. Last night I took a +Fun class (Every Last Detail) where we made a beautiful tray using all sorts of great embellishments. This morning I have my make-and-take session and I can’t wait use the new stamps sets we got in our convention bag. Then we have our closing general session, which is not to be missed.

I have two more projects to share with you today. The first is a Christmas card that uses the Heard from the Heart stamp set and the Northern Frost Decorative Strip die. This was actually a pretty simple card (thanks Michelle for your help on this one). We cut out lots of snowflakes and randomly glued them on a piece of Very Vanilla cardstock. Then we ran it through the Big shot with the Petals-a-plenty embossing folder so the snowflakes were embedded in the image. Once again we only embossed about 2/3 of the sheet and left the part with the greeting flat. Then we attached an additional snowflake to the card and added a Basic Rhinestone brad so that snowflake stood out. A nice and simple card but elegant looking and easy to reproduce in mass.

The second item is a book mark with the Fun Flowers Die. I got this idea from Connie Babbert and you have to check her creation out HERE! I just chose different colors of cardstock and ran it through the Big shot to cut out all the flower layers. Then I sprayed them with water and squished them up so they were wrinkled before sponging the edges with ink using a sponge dauber. Once the layers dried I stacked them how I wanted them and punched a hole through all the layers with a paper piercer before using a Brights Flower brad to attached all the layers together. The final step was to add a piece of Basic Black ribbon to the back.

This is such a fun project, we made it in last months Big Shot class and it was a hit.

We’ve had a great week but are definitely looking forward to heading home tomorrow, I think Chris and Mocha will be glad when we get back.

Have a great day!

Diana

Convention is Awesome!

2011-07-15T07:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday!

We are having such a great time this week and can’t believe how fast the time has flown. I wanted to drop and show 2 quick cards I made for swaps this week.

The first is a Christmas card that uses the Greeting Card Kids and Bells and Boughs stamp set. I embossed the front of the card (Cherry Cobbler) with the Petals-a-Plenty embossing folder and then took my Chocolate Chip marker to highlight the centers of each of the flowers so they can look like Poinsettias. The main image was stamped with Black Staz-on ink and then colored in with a Blender pen and classic ink pads. I punched the image out with the 2 ½” circle punch and then matted on a piece of Baja Breeze cardstock cut out with the Scallop Circle #2 Die. I did run the scallop circle through the Big Shot with the Perfect Polka Dot Embossing Folder. I did add a bow with the Chocolate Chip Polka Dot Scallop Ribbon to the front.

Now this is a fun fold card in that it is a try pod, check it from the side. The inside has a piece of Whisper White cardstock that is stamped in Old Olive with the Bells and Boughs stamp set. Then the greeting is stamped in Chocolate Chip and punched out with the Decorative Label punch. Lots of sponging around the layers and the cards all set.
So pretty, this little girl is so sweet!

The second card uses the Word Play stamp set. This is a fun swap in that everyone participating is using the same stamp set to provide lots of great ideas! I used the globe image from The Open Sea Stamp set and stamped it off before stamping on Whisper White cardstock so it’s very subtle. Then I stamped the greeting in Not Quite Navy. I stamped the same image on a scrap of paper with Cherry Cobbler ink and then punched out the little globe with the ½” circle punch before attaching it with a dimensional for it pops. I also used the Nautical Expedition DSP and the Cherry Cobbler Baker’s twine for a more manly touch. Last but not least I used the paper piecer to punch dots in two of the corners of the card base.

This is very similar to the father’s day card I made for Chris this year but I thought it was too cute not to share.
I’m having so much fun this week, I can’t seem to stop smiling and hope you are having a great week as well.

Take care!

Diana

A Cupcake to Share

2011-07-14T07:00:00.001-04:00

What a fun day yesterday, Stampin’ Up really knows how to throw a party! Today is our first general session and first sets of classes so I can’t wait. I’ve also met some wonderful people which is so fun!

Today’s card I have to share with you today is a cute card using the Create a Cupcake stamp set and Build a Cupcake punch. These are so fun and allow you to make lots of cupcakes quickly. This card also uses the new Cheerful Treat DSP and Lucky Limeaid (one of this years new In Colors). This green is so fun and goes perfectly with the Concord Crush Poly Satin Ribbon. The final touch was to add Red glitter cherries to the cupcakes. I used the same punch with the Red Glitter paper.

Enjoy!

Diana

Let the Festivities Begin

2011-07-13T07:00:00.002-04:00

Today convention activities begin, including check-in, Momento Mall (who wouldn’t love shopping for Stampin’ Up exclusive items!) and the welcome party. We’re also going to head out to the home office for a tour of the offices and distribution center (Aidan and mom are going to come also).

Today I'm sharing a card a created with the Day of Gratitude stamp set. The card is pretty straight forward and uses the lattice embossing folder that only embosses part way down the cardstock. The colors are Sahara Sand, Cajun Craze, and Chocolate Chip. The ribbon is one of the new polka dot scallop ribbon that I turned over so the solid side is showing.

So did you check out that button??? It’s actually a faux button that I made my layering cardstock and punching center holes before covering with Crystal Effects (definitely need to let the buttons dry overnight to make sure it’s set. The final touch was tie some twine in the button.
This was so fun and I love how this card turned out, perfect for the fall.

Have a great day!

Diana

We've Arrived

2011-07-12T07:00:00.001-04:00

After arriving in SLC and getting all checked into the hotel we’ve decided to go to the Lagoon amusement and waterpark and tour the Sweet Candy Company factory (yum, salt water taffy).

Today I’m sharing two additional swaps. The first is a card using the new Delicate Doilles stamp set and Thank you Kindly. This new stamp set coordinates perfectly with the new Flirtatious DSP (you have to check this out, it includes 2 sheets of laser cut doilies). I also used the new Lace Ribbon border punch (love it) and one of our new in colors, Wisteria Wonder.

The second item is a little shopping bag made with the Bitty Box & Envelope Bigz XL die. This is so easy to make, just run a half sheet of cardstock (in this case either Pacific Point or Tangerine Tango) through the Big Shot and cut off a couple of tabs. The DSP is Beyond the Garden and then I wrapped a piece of ribbon (for these samples I used Whisper White 3/8” Taffeta and Daffodil Delight ¼” Grosgrain ribbon. The handles are made with the White bakers twine. Inside I included tissue paper and a Ghirardelli chocolate.

Isn’t this cute? The idea for this project was from Connie Babbert and you can check out her project HERE.

Enjoy!
Diana

Let the Adventure begin...

2011-07-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

I’m so excited, and I just can’t hide it (yes, I am channeling the Pointer Sisters)! Aidan and I got up very early this morning and left for the airport for our trip to Salt Lake City. As you read this we should be boarding our plane. We’re going out ahead of my annual Stampin’ Up convention and my mom is coming to meet us in SLC and Aidan and Gramma are going to explore the city while I’m at convention (it’s great how many great family oriented things there are to do in the city (and most within a couple of miles of the hotel).

Like last year I’m going to be sharing each day this week some of the swaps that I am taking to share. Today’s share is my card I created for a kid’s card swap. This means that everyone in the swap is creating a card geared for kids (who great is that!). I made a baseball themed birthday card using the Home Run and It’s Your Birthday Stamp sets. This card has lots of texture with the Lattice embossing on the background, popped up baseball that was cut out with circle punches as well as the greeting. Here's a close-up of the baseball.

This card is so fun and I can’t wait to see what everyone else creates since I seem to be making kids cards regularly.

Enjoy and stay tuned for tomorrow…

Diana

July Stamp-a-Stack

2011-07-08T08:35:00.000-04:00

Good morning!

It's been awhile since my last post, I've been frantically getting everything great to leave for Stampin' Up convention (we leave on Monday and I can't wait). Let me just tell you the amount of paper that has been flying in studio is mindblowing, I definately have to do some cleaning before we leave. I'll be posted pictures of all the swaps I made from convention each day next week so make sure to check back soon. Anyway, I wanted to drop a quick note to show you the projects we'll be making at this months Stamp-a-stack, which is this Sunday. We'll be using tons of items from the summer mini and new catalog, you're sure to love it.

Aren't these awesome! We're going to be traveling on Saturday so please let me know TODAY if you'll be coming so everything is prepared.

Enjoy and have a great weekend!

Diana

Sketch Challenge - Strength & Hope

2011-06-26T21:40:00.000-04:00

Good evening! Tonight I want to share with you the card I made for this weeks Stamping 411 sketch challenge. I decided to use the Strength & Hope stamp set and make a one color card, in this case Blushing Bride. To help make the card have dimension every piece of paper on this card is sponged with Blushing Bride Ink. I also used the In Color DSP Level One Hostess item (this paper is only available through Thursday). The panel on the right side is the word stamp set stamped repeatedly down the paper. The ribbon is Whisper White organza ribbon.

I stamped the "H" and hope and punched it out with the 1 3/8" circle punch and then matted it with a scallop circle punch. This card looks so pretty in person, very soothing.

The best thing about this stamp set (other than how pretty the images are) is that Stampin' Up is donating $2 from the sale of each stamp set through August 31 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, what a great way to give to a fabulous cause. Make sure to pick up your set!

Have a great week!

Diana

A Father's Day Card - Just in the Nick of Time!

2011-06-20T13:33:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday!

We had a great weekend this weekend with friends. We hosted our annual neighborhood BBQ this Saturday and had a blast with our friends and neighbors which was a great way to kickoff summer (complete with a fire and smores in the evening!) The only downside to this full day is that I was a little behind in making Chris’ card for father’s day so I had to whip one up Sunday morning. Robin Merriman had made a great card last week that I really liked so I decided to CASE it, check Robin’s card out HERE.

This card highlights the Word Play and The Open Sea stamp set. I stamped the globe with Basic Grey ink that was stamped off for a lighter image. Then I stamped the words from Word Play with Not Quite Navy ink directly on top of the globe. I used Cherry Cobbler ink to stamp the words a on a scrap piece of paper so I could punch out the little globe with the ¾” circle punch which was then popped up with a dimensional. This piece was matted with a piece of Not Quite Navy cardstock. Next I matted a piece of Nautical Expedition DSP on Not Quite Navy (this corner piece was perfect with the palm trees. I wrapped a piece of Whisper White/Cherry Cobbler Baker’s Twine around the DSP and then tied a bow.

The final touch was to stamp a father’s day greeting from the Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp set in Cherry Cobbler, punched it out with the Modern Label Punch, and sponged the edges with Not Quite Navy ink before attaching it with dimensionals.
The card turned out great and Chris loved it, even if the ink was barely dry when I gave it to him! Hope you all had a special father's day with your loved one's as well.

Heartfelt Thanks - Sketch Challenge

2011-06-14T06:45:00.000-04:00

Good morning! Today I wanted to share with you a quick and easy card I made for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge. For this weeks card I wanted to showcase several items that are retiring, including the Hodgepodge Happiness stamp set, Greenhouse Gala DSP, Early Espresso 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon, Designer Label Punch, and Styled Silver Hodgepodge Hardware.

I used Early Espresso and Marinia Mist stampin' write markers to color directly on the rubber before stamping on Whisper White Cardstock which was then punched out iwth the Designer Label Punch. After matting the DSP to the Early Espresso Cardstock and then the Marina Mist card base I ruffled the Early Espresso 5/8" Grosgrain ribbon (used Sticky Strip, and Snail) I attached the greeting to the card with the designer label piece and brads from the Styled Silver Hodgepodge hardware it (these are such fun metal pieces and I rarely use them).

I love how this turned out, full of texture and dimension. Don't forget you only have until the end of the month get these retiring items before they are gone forever.

Happy stamping!

Diana

June Stamp-a-Stack

2011-06-08T08:26:00.000-04:00

Good morning!

Just wanted to drop in to show this months Stamp-a-stack projects. This month we're focusing on sets that are retired (time to use them one more time before they're gone) and the summer mini catalog, there's lots of different styles, perfect for any occasion. Also, I have a special offer on the retired sets for those who attend upcoming events, you won't want to miss this!

Class is this Sunday and there's still time RSVP, just let me know!

Have a great day and happy stamping!

Diana

Sketch Challenge: Land of the Free

2011-06-05T21:58:00.000-04:00

What a fantabulous weekend! We had a great time this weekend with family activities and just spending time together, love it! I did take time to create a card for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge and knew exactly what I wanted to do once I saw the sketch design. I started with the Land of the Free single stamp (love how it has the song lyrics to make the stripes on the flag) and inked it with Real Red and Night of Navy classic markers.

For the back ground I cut various size stars with the Star punch (can't believe that one's retiring) and the Big Shot star die) in Whisper White and attached them to the Night of Navy cardstock before running them through the Big Shot with the Lattice Textured Embossing Folder so the stars became embedded into the design of the paper. For the strip a used a piece of Real Red DSP from the Brights paper stack and layered it with a piece of Whisper White cardstock that was punched along one edge with the scallop border punch.

The final touch was to make a bow with Whisper White 3/8" taffeta ribbon and a star brad (the brad is retired but I thought it was perfect for this card). Now check out the sketch we had to work with.

This card is fabuous! I love how clean and bright it is.

Just a reminder, there is still time to RSVP for this month's stamp-a-stack class which will be next sunday, the 12th at 2:00 PM, just email to let me know.

Hope you have a great week and happy stamping!

Diana

It's Time to Say Farewell....

2011-06-01T18:43:00.002-04:00

Today is June 1st and you know what that means...the day Stampin’ Up announces which stamp sets and accessories are being discontinued from the Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog to make room for all the new products in the new catalog coming out on July 1st! You can bet I was up at 5:20 AM this morning to check it out first thing.

Discontinued Stamp Sets can be found HERE.

Discontinued Accessories can be found HERE and updated daily.

Discontinued Definitely Decorative products can be found HERE.

Discontinued stamp sets, Stampin' Up! will manufacture to fill demand. However, the accessories are first come first served, so don't delay in ordering! You can place your order with me - online HERE.

As an added bonus, for every $50 order (before tax and shipping) placed in my online store during the month of June your name will be entered into a drawing for a FREE* stamp set of your choice from the new catalog that comes out on July 1. (* up to $19.95 in value).

Cheers to You!

2011-05-26T07:38:00.035-04:00

Today I wanted to share a special card I made for my husband for our anniversay. This card has lots of shimmer and shine (which Aidan loved). I used Vintage Wallpaper Embossing folder and the Big Shot to add texture to the Basic Black card stock. I used the champagne glasses from the Cheers to You stamp set and stamped it on shimmer paper. I colored the drinks in with a So Saffron Stampin' Write marker before adding Crystal Effects to make the drink look wet and shinny. Then I added dazzling diamonds at the top of the glasses. This piece was matted on a piece of Gold cardstock and then I wrapped a piece of Whisper White Organza ribbon around the paper and knotted it.

Next I used the Oval punch to cut a window out of the cardfront and adhered a piece of Whisper White cardstock on the inside before stamping the greeting (from Teeny Tiny Wishes, as you know one of my favorite greeting sets) so you can see it through the window.

This card is awesome!!! I hope you enjoyed this card as much as I enjoyed making it.

Have a great day and happy stamping,

Diana

Sketch Challenge - The Open Sea

2011-05-24T20:59:00.000-04:00

Good evening! So I must admit while I'm enjoying the break in the thunderstorms we've been having I'm not ready for the humidity this early in the season (at 6:00 AM this morning when I was walking there was 96% humidity, ugh!) but considering the weather in other parts of the country I'll deal with the rain and humidity. For this weeks Stamping 411 challenge, I wanted to make a masculine card, perfect for father's day.

This card uses The Open Sea stamp set and

the Nautical Expedition DSP. This card is pretty straight forward but has lots of layers and textures, love it! Now check out the sketch we were provided.

Hope you enjoy and have a great week!

Happy Stamping,

Diana

Happy Golfer!

2011-05-23T07:37:00.001-04:00

Good morning! Today I wanted to share one of the projects we made in class yesterday. This card uses the On the Green stamp set and is lots of fun.
I used the stamp-a-maj to stamp this image three times side by side (for the middle image I inked the stamp with Stampin' Write Markers so I could make the golfer black while the rest of the words were Always Artichoke). Then there are lots of layers of Always Artichoke and Basic Black with Black Satin ribbon tied in a knot.

To make the golf balls I used a 1 1/4" circle punch and punched out three pieces and then ran them through the Big Shot with the Perfect Polka Dot Embossing Folder. I flipped the circles over so the polka dots were indented instead of raised to mimic a golf ball (the top golf ball is popped up with a dimensional (check it out!)

The final step to stamp the father's day greeting with the Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp set.

I love how great this card turned out, very masculine.

Have a great day!

Diana

May Stamp-a-Stack

2011-05-20T21:24:00.000-04:00

Good evening! Just a quick note to show you some of the fun projects for this months stamp-a-stack. Definately a card for every occasion. Class is this Sunday and there's still space so please let me know by noon tomorrow if you're interested.

Hope you have a great weekend and enjoy the beautiful weather we're supposed to have tomorrow!

Happy stamping,

Diana

Sketch Challenge - Elegant Thanks

2011-05-08T21:58:00.000-04:00

Good evening. I hope you all enjoyed your mother's day, I had a nice relaxing day with my boys. For this weeks Stamping 411 challenge I some muted spring colors as inspiration. I started with the Elegant Lines Embossing folder and inked the folder with Crumb Cake classic ink. Then I added a piece of Very Vanilla cardstock and ran it through the Big Shot. The result was adding the ink to the unembossed parts of the design and the embossed image stayed vanilla. The embossed image is matted with a piece of Basic Grey on top of the Baja Breeze card based.

Next I added a piece of Elegant Soiree DSP and then a piece of 1/8" Very Vanilla Taffeta Ribbon. The stamped greeting is from the Afterthoughts hostess set (I love things you get for free!) and is punched out with the large oval punch, sponged with crumb cake ink and then matted on a piece of Soft Suede cardstock punched out with the Decorative Label punch. This piece was adhered to the card with dimensionals. The final touch was adding some butterflies that were cut out with the Beautiful Butterflies Embosslit.

I love how this card turned out, very nice and I love all the textures. Now check out the sketch we were provided as inspiration. Hope you enjoy and have a great week!

Happy stamping,

Diana

Love to Mom's

2011-05-04T19:20:00.000-04:00

Good evening! What a great weekend. I had the opportunity to attend my first crop weekend with a great group of ladies and had a blast. While we got a lot done and had fun I have to admit that I'm still recovering from the lack of sleep. While I was unpacking I decided to whip up a quick card for this weeks Stampin 411 challenge and new it would be perfect for Mother's day.

I started by running my Marina Mist card base through the Big Shot with the Vintage Wallpaper Embossing folder. Then I used of DSP from the Greenhouse Gala DSP and matted on Early Espresso cardstock. I used the "mom" stamp from the Messages for Mom stamp set and stamped it with Early Espresso ink on Pear Pizzaz cardstock before matting it with Early Espresso cardstock. I used dimensionals to pop up the Mom layer to add some dimension.

Next I added three Rhinestones and a bow tied with the Pear Pizzaz Seam Binding ribbon (so glad this color is carrying over from the last mini catalog). Lots of sparkle and ribbon that mom is sure to love. Finally "happy mother's day" is stamped at the bottom (I actually stamped it before running it through the Big Shot since I find it's easier.

Easy peasy and sure to please. Now check out the sketch we were provided. I love how versatile this layout is, I'll definately have to use it again.

Have a great week and for all you mom's Happy Mother's Day!

Happy stamping,

Diana

It's all about the Peeps!

2011-04-20T08:00:00.000-04:00

Good morning! Today, as promised I have a picture of the Peeps wreath that Aidan and I made this weekend. We got the idea from Erika Martin (check hers out HERE). We pretty much kept the construction the same but used blue and green bunny peeps, in addition to the pink and yellow bunnies. Aidan really loved making sure we kept the correct order of the colors.

This was so much fun to make and it adds a fun touch to our holiday decorations.

Enjoy and have a great day!

Diana

Birthday Cupcakes

2011-04-18T20:40:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday friends! Today I have a cute card to share with you for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge. For this weeks card I decided to use the Love Impressions DSP and show how it could be used for occasions other than valentines day. I decided to use Real Red, Blushing Bride, and Going Grey all from the DSP (love how it makes color coordination a breeze!).

The stamp set for this weeks card is Crazy for Cupcakes. The card is pretty straight forward so I'll just point out that after coloring in the cupcakes I used Crystal Effects on the cherries to make them shine along with the fabulous Red Glimmer paper (so fun!) and Real Red Taffeta Ribbon.

So sweet, I could just eat them!

Hope you enjoy and happy stamping,

Diana

Kindergarden Easter Class Gift

2011-04-15T13:24:00.000-04:00

Good afternoon!

I have a quick Easter project post for you. So while I’ve been thinking that Easter is so late this year and I have all this time I completely forgot that Aidan’s school is on spring break next week so they are celebrating Easter today. Now I realized this yesterday (and hadn’t even thought about what we were going to make). I ordered the new Petal Cone Die last month but had yet to use it but I liked all the different “out of the box” ideas people were coming up with for this die. Well I decided to CASE this really cute pouch made with the die that looks like a carrot (Becky Roberts was my inspiration, check out the original HERE).

After cutting out the cone with the Big Shot I ran it through again with the Lattice embossing folder. Then I used the Perfect Polka Dot embossing folder for the green scalloped pieces. Tombow Mono adhesive was perfect to hold all these textured pieces together and keep them from separating. The cute bunny is from the Forest Friends stamp set and was punched out with a 1 ¼” circle punch and matted with a 1 3/8” circle and scallop circle piece. The greeting is from the Something to Celebrate hostess set and the flag was another piece cut from the same Petal Cone Die. The final touch was adhering a piece of retired Chocolate Chip 5/8” grosgrain ribbon that was tied in a not.

So cute and so easy, I was able to completely make all the gifts for Aidan’s class in a little over an hour, and Aidan loves them!

I can’t wait for the weekend to start this evening since its jammed pack. Not only do we have opening day of TBall and the neighborhood easter egg hunt (both on Saturday morning, weather permitting) but Aidan and I are making a special easter decoration involving Peep bunnies. We’ll definitely post pictures when we’re done, so look for it soon.

Hope you enjoy and have a great weekend!

Diana

Sketch Challenge - Thanks for Caring

2011-04-10T20:57:00.000-04:00

Good evening friends! What a great weekend. We enjoyed getting Aidan's "big boy" room all set up which he loves and then we had beautiful weather on Sunday and a lot of fun stamping with the ladies. My mom has made a request for some sympathy cards to add to her card stash so I thought this weeks Stamping 411 challenge design would be perfect.

I started with a cardbase of Baja Breeze and added a layer of Not Quite Navy that I ran through the Tulip Border Embossing folder. A piece of the Vintage Spring DSP is along the left side. The main image is from the Thanks for Caring stamp set and (one of my favorites from the Occasions Mini catalog) and was just inked with Stampin' Write markers directly on the rubber to provide the multi-colored image. Along the right side of the greeting is a piece of Baja Breeze Seam Binding Ribbon and then a double bow I created with the same ribbon. A Very Vanilla Vintage Adornment was added to the center of the bow. The final touch was some paper piercing in the corners on the left side of the greeting.

Now check out the sketch we were provided. This card turned out perfect and is very calm and peaceful.

Hope you have a great week and happy stamping!

Diana

April Stamp-a-Stack

2011-04-03T22:07:00.000-04:00

Good evening! What a great weekend. We had a fun class Saturday morning and we got to make the perfect gifts for mother's day (I'm so excited that all four of my gifts are complete and ready to go). We also went to the movies and went to see "Hop," what a cute and funny movie (Aidan talked about it all evening long he was so excited). I was also able to complete all the samples for this months stamp-a-stack which will be next Sunday at 2:00 PM. Check out the samples below, you'll love these great cards.

This is the last month to purchase any items from the Occasions Mini catolog so make sure to order any items that are on your wish list. Also, this month you have the opportunity to purchase a new stamp set and designer paper that won't come out until July when the new Idea Book and Catalog is released so we'll be trying them out this month.

I hope you can make it on Sunday, make sure to contact me soon to reserve your spot.

Have a great week and happy stamping!

Diana

Sneak Peak - Four Frames

2011-03-30T07:30:00.001-04:00

Today I'm very excited to share a sneak peak at a new stamp set and designer paper that will be in the new Idea Book and Catalog starting in July. This is the new Four Frames stamp set and Paisley Petals DSP. In addition to these new items, this card also uses the Cherry Cobler Seam Binding Ribbon, Antique Brads, Decorative Label Punch, and Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch, and Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp set.

Starting Friday, and throughout the rest of April you to can get your hands on these great new items. There are two ways to get them:

* Place an order of $20 or more and you can purchase the stamp set and DSP, or

* Host a workshop totalling $350 or more and you can get both the stamp set and designer paper for FREE!

Enjoy!

Birthday Wishes - Stamping 411 Sketch Challenge

2011-03-27T20:37:00.000-04:00

What an eventful weekend! Some stamping friends came over Friday night for open stamping and then I went to the Nothern Virginia Demo shoebox swap Saturday morning and not only made some beautiful cards but met some great new demonstrators in the area. Then we spent the rest of the weekend with the family on early birthday celebrations since I'll be traveling for work this week. I was also able to spend some time in the studio and made this beautiful card for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge.

This card definately has a vintage feel, which I've been really trying to work on lately. The card is pretty straight forward so I'll just highlight some of the highlights. The background is Pear Pizzaz cardstock that was run through the Big Shot with the Vintage Wallpaper Embossing folder. Then I sponged the paper with Pear Pizzaz ink to help make the image pop (we did this at the shoebox swap yesterday and I loved the added dimension). Then I used the Eyelet border punch on the Not Quite Navy cardstock as a mat for the Springtime Vintage DSP. The greeting is from the Occasional Quotes Hostess Stamp Set and it punched out with the Decorative Label Punch. The ribbon is the fabulous Baja Breeze Seam Binding Ribbon and I added three Metallic brads in the top right corner.

I love how beautiful this card turned out!

Have a great week and happy stamping,

Diana

Thankful Butterflies - Stamping 411 Sketch Challenge

2011-03-22T20:43:00.000-04:00

Good evening. This is definately my favorite time of year, I love the warm weather and all the trees and flowers starting to bloom. Since spring is all around us it's only fitting that it's the inspiration for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge. I was initially thrown by this sketch but then I figured it was a great opportunity to showcase multiple prints from the Greenhouse Gala DSP, which has quickly become one of my favorite paper packs.

There's nothing overly challenging about this card so I figured I would just highlight some of the key items: I used the Vintage Wallpaper Texture Embossing Folder for the background, 5/8" Early Espresso Grosgrain Ribbon, Beautiful Butterflies Embosslet die for the butterfly cutouts, basic rhinestones for accents on the butterflies, and the Perfect Punches stamp set for the greeting.

Here's the sketch, pretty cool! I love how bright and cheery this card is, it definately screams spring!

Just a reminder that Friday is PMS (Pizza, Movies, Stamps) night starting at 7:30. Please let me know know if you'll be joining us, it's sure to be a lot of fun!

Hope you enjoy and have a great week!

Diana

Cheers to You, with Green Beer!

2011-03-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

This week’s card for the Stamping 411 sketch challenge was definitely influenced by all our recent St. Patrick’s Day festivities. While I don’t mail cards to everyone for all holidays I do like to give my son and husband a little something to let them know I love them. I’ve been meaning to make my husband’s card and knew when I saw the challenge that I could cross off two things on my list as once. I used the Cheers to You stamp set to make green beer (perfect for St. Patty’s day) as the main images and used a Blender Pen and Garden Green ink to color in the beer. To make the frothy foam I actually shaved Whisper White Cardstock with my scissors to basically create “fuzzies” that I attached to the card with crystal effects, (you can only image what my studio and clothes looked like after 20 minutes of paper shaving) but I really like the end result.

The white piece of paper in the back was stamped with Wild Wasabi and Garden Green ink and the Got Treats stamp set before running it through the Big Shot with the Lattice die. The rest of the card is pretty straight forward, the ribbon is Certainly Celery Taffeta and the greeting is from the Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp set (the best greeting set ever!)

Now check out the sketch we were provided. Not the most elegant card but Chris is going to love it and it’s perfect for this holiday.

Before I sign off I wanted to share a picture from this weekend that helped get me in the mood, Aidan and I along with some neighbors attended the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Old Town Manassas on Saturday.

Aidan and I love to get all dressed up so this is before we left for the parade. It was pretty cold but we still had a good time!

Happy St. Patrick's Day and happy stamping,

Diana

Cupcakes are for Birthdays

2011-03-11T07:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday!

Today I wanted to share a fun project that is sure to brighten up anyone's birthday. This card uses the Create a Cupcake stamp set and matching Build a Cupcake punch. The colors for the card come straight from the Ice Cream Parlor DSP and ribbon (both you can get for free the rest of the month during Sale-a-bration) who doesn't love free stuff? This is a pretty straight forward card, so I won't bore you with all the details, needless to say it was fun and simple to make.

Who doesn't love cupcakes on their birthday?

Have a great day,

Diana

March Stamp-a-Stack

2011-03-08T07:00:00.009-05:00

Just wanted to drop a quick note to show you three of the projects that we'll be making at this months stamp-a-stack (I'm waiting for an order to arrive later this week with paper for the last card). These are so much fun and you'll absolutely love this great new technique that uses a white crayon (the original card idea is from the super talented Selene Kempton).

SAS will be this Sunday, March 13 at 2:00 PM. We'll be making 8 cards (2 each of 4 designs) for $15. There are still a couple of spots so RSVP soon to reserve your spot.

Have a great week and hope to see you Sunday!

Diana

Sketch Challenge - Birthday Bakery

2011-03-06T21:21:00.000-05:00

What a great weekend! We finally had a weekend where were didn't have several commitments, we were actually able to just relax and enjoy. This also means that I was able to get some quality, dedicated time in the craft studio (whoo hoo!). The very first project was a card for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge. This was an unusual challenge in that I don't normally make square cards, but it ended up being a lot of fun.

The main focal image is from the Birthday Bakery stamp set (what a fun set you can get for free by hosting a workshop!) that was colored in with Stampin' Write markers. I added a piece of Pretty in Pink DSP and Pear Pizazz cardstock that was punched with the scallop edge punch. The greeting was stamped with Early Espresso ink on the DSP. The next layer is a piece of Whisper White Cardstock that was run through the Big Shot with the Polka Dot Embossing Folder before matting it on Early Espresso cardstock. I wrapped a piece of Pretty in Pink Satin Ribbon and Early Espresso 1/8" Taffeta ribbon around this layer of cardstock. The bow is made with the same Early Espresso ribbon and a silver brad (which match the 3 silver brads in the top left corner of the cardstock. The last step was attaching all these layers onto a piece of pretty pink carstock which was cut at 5 1/4" x 11" and folded in half to make the square cardbase.

Now check our this weeks sketch sample. A fresh and fun card that I decided to send to my mom for her birthday this week (love you mom!).

Hope you enjoyed this project and have a great week!

Happy stamping,

Diana

Birthday Wishes - Game Style

2011-03-01T11:15:00.000-05:00

Today I wanted to share the birthday card I made for my little one’s birthday a couple of weeks ago. Aidan loves to get cards and is really appreciative when someone makes him a card or colors him a picture. I decided to use the Take a Spin stamp set and new game spinner hands to make a fun card. I started with a base of Wild Wasabi cardstock. I used a piece of Celebrations DSP and attached it to Real Red Cardstock and wrapped a piece of Bashful Blue ¼” Grosgrain ribbon (retired) on the seam.

The main image was stamped with Pacific Point ink on Whisper White cardstock. Then I used my Stampin’ Write markers to color in the various images on the stamp (birthday cake, package, candles, etc.). I used my 1/16” handheld punch to punch a hole in the middle for the game spinner hand. Instead of using the standard brad that came with the spinners I used a Real Red brad. Once completed I matted the image to a piece of Wild Wasabi cardstock before attaching to the card.

Very easy and Aidan loved it! (we actually made a similar version of this card during last months stamp-a-stack). This is such a fun stamp set and I can see several other great ideas, including reward ribbons, etc.

Have a great day!

Diana

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T06:30:00.001-05:00

I hope you all are having a fabulous start to your valentine's day. I love the idea of showing all the special people in our lives we love them but I do believe this should not be restricted to just one designated day a year. We have had fun celebrating all weekend and went to a great dinner on Saturday and Chris gave me some beautiful flowers that I've been able to enjoy all weekend (thanks babe!).
Anyways I love making special cards for everyone but it's a special challenge for Chris since I really try to not make it too feminine, I made several candidates but I thought I would share the card that made the final cut.

I used Basic Black, Basic Grey, and Real Red. The background was created with the new letterpress plates and I tried using them with VersaMark instead of regular ink and love how easy it was and turned out perfect. Then a cut a scalloped heart out of grey cardstock with the lots of hearts embosslet , to mat the paisley heart (that was from the Paisley Prints stamp set) that was punched out with the large heart punch. The greeting is from the Be My Valentine stamp set and I stamped it on Whisper White cardstock and cut it out with Paper Snips so it would pop. The final touch was Black satin ribbon and I tied this great bow that looks kind of like a bow tie and used a Clear Crystal Circle brad for the center.
I really think he's going to love it.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Diana

February Stamp-a-Stack

2011-02-12T08:01:00.000-05:00

Good morning,

With all the craziness of the week I haven't had a chance to post the projects for this month's stamp-a-stack until this morning. This is going to be a great class where we use some of the new items from the Occassions Mini and Sale-a-bration catalogs. We'll also learn and great fun and easy technique that you'll love.

Have a great weekend. Can't wait to see you Sunday!

Diana

Valentines, Filled with Love

2011-02-09T07:00:00.003-05:00

Good morning! Today I want to share 2 quick and easy valentine projects. The first is a card I made for Aidan (my almost 6 year old) who loves all holidays and especially enjoys getting handmade cards (definitely a kid after his mommy’s heart). It uses the Filled with Love stamp set and is a Joy fold card. These are fun since they have the layers that open up and the stampers loved this when we used the same technique a class awhile back. It also uses the Red glimmer paper, Love Impressions DSP, Real Red DSP, and small heart punch.

Take a look here’s a peak at what the card looks like from the side with the folds.

The second project is a super simple tin. I wrapped two different patterns of Love Impressions DSP around the outside of the tin and then tied a piece of Blushing Bride Poly-stitch ribbon. Then I used one of the Love Impressions Rub-ons on the clear window on the top of the tin. These rub-ons are super simple and so cute! The final touch was filling the tin with Hugs and Kisses candy (what is a valentine gift without chocolate).

I hope these projects have given you some ideas for your own projects!
Enjoy,
Diana

Sweetheart Valentine

2011-02-07T18:16:00.000-05:00

I have been a bad little blogger. Construction was completed on my new stamp studio last weekend (whoo hoo!) so I’ve had the arduous task of moving into the new space. I must tell you it’s always eye opening to see what you really have when you have top pick up each and every item and move it down 2 flights of stairs. While I’m still not fully settled I have the majority of the stamp items settled so I knew it was time to “break in” the studio, boy did I have a lot of fun. One of the projects was for this weeks Stamping 411 challenge. With Valentine’s Day only a week away it’s only fitting that this weeks card takes advantage of our “sweet” holiday.

I started with a card base of Regal Rose and added a piece of whisper white cardstock that I had run through the Big Shot with the Perfect Polka Dot embossing folder. Then I added a piece of Real Red 1/8” taffeta ribbon and bow. The greeting is from A Perfect Heart stamp set and is stamped with Real Red Ink on Regal Rose cardstock before being punched out with the Modern Label Punch. The main image uses the Sweetheart stamp set and used Real Red to ink the heart and Garden Green for the flower leaves. To really add some bling I used the large Heart Punch to punch a heart out of the Red Glimmer Paper for the center. This is matted on a piece of Real Red Cardstock.

That’s about it, now check out the sketch we were provided. Pretty perfect and certain to brighten up anyone’s day.

Stay tuned for more valentine’s projects, sure to please!

Happy stamping,

Diana