When the summer ends and I find more time, I hope to have a class and have fun making more. Come back on Saturday to see a few more finished products.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Napkin/Wax Class
Had a fun class last week while two of my friends from PA visited. We learned using hot wax and designer paper napkins to make card fronts. I made several pieces at the class and then we came back to my studio (BDS -- Bonnie's Design Studio) and played all day converting the pieces to works of art. Hope you enjoy seeing our finished products ...
When the summer ends and I find more time, I hope to have a class and have fun making more. Come back on Saturday to see a few more finished products.
When the summer ends and I find more time, I hope to have a class and have fun making more. Come back on Saturday to see a few more finished products.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Two Days Left of Current Catalog
... but still time to get this adorable Swirls and Curls Hostess stamp et. Available in the Summer Mini catalog pg. 4(ends Aug 30th). If you'd like to hostess a party in August and receive this free stamp set OR if you just place a $150 order or more :-) to get all the retiring items, you can get this one. 
The paper used here (Sunny Garden - pg. 174) will no longer be availble after June 30th. I love this paper and will be so sad to see it gone.
Okay, so you are tired of hearing about all the stuff that will be gone. Here's another sample of the free hostess set, Swirls and Curls Verses, on a card using our NEW Petite Pennants Builder Punch and our NEW Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch (pgs. 213 & 211 of the New Catalog!). Great things are coming!
And, oh, by the way ... I can't claim credit for these two cards. I don't have my stuff yet to make them. I'm just busy on our Stampin' Up! Stampin Connection. This is a section dedicated to just us demonstrators to get the latest and greatest ideas. If you'd like to be able to access this area, too, let me know. By signing up as a demonstrator, this is just one of the many perks, not to mention all the discounts, etc. AND the Convention coming up July 12-17 in Salt Lake City ... I CAN'T WAIT!
And, oh, by the way ... I can't claim credit for these two cards. I don't have my stuff yet to make them. I'm just busy on our Stampin' Up! Stampin Connection. This is a section dedicated to just us demonstrators to get the latest and greatest ideas. If you'd like to be able to access this area, too, let me know. By signing up as a demonstrator, this is just one of the many perks, not to mention all the discounts, etc. AND the Convention coming up July 12-17 in Salt Lake City ... I CAN'T WAIT!
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Aviary
If you love birds, then you must visit this stamp set (pg. 121 of 2010-11 large catalog). Here's a card I made recently using this Aviary:
For the saying on this card, I used the free hostess set in the Summer Mini catalog (pg. 4). Just too cute! The mini runs out August 30, 2011. There's still time to host a party and receive this set free!
Good news, Aviary made the cut and will be back in the new Catalog! Yeah!!
Here's another card that was given to me by another stampin buddy, Debbie "O"! Here she simply stamped the bird cage image on very vanilla cardstock and punched out images from the Newsprint Designer Series Paper (pg. 175 of current catalog #117166 - $9.95)with different sized circle punches. This paper will no longer be available after June 30, 2011.
Thanks for sharing this simple and cute card, Debbie O! Can't wait to spend some time with you soon at the Stampin' Up! convention in Salt Lake City where we will be "trading cards" and I will be coming home with hundreds of ideas.
Also, July 1 I will be posting my list of retiring stamp sets. Be sure to check back with me on July 1st (just after midnight). You will need to email me your list. All stamp sets will be marked down to 60% of their book value. First come, first served!
For the saying on this card, I used the free hostess set in the Summer Mini catalog (pg. 4). Just too cute! The mini runs out August 30, 2011. There's still time to host a party and receive this set free!
Good news, Aviary made the cut and will be back in the new Catalog! Yeah!!
Here's another card that was given to me by another stampin buddy, Debbie "O"! Here she simply stamped the bird cage image on very vanilla cardstock and punched out images from the Newsprint Designer Series Paper (pg. 175 of current catalog #117166 - $9.95)with different sized circle punches. This paper will no longer be available after June 30, 2011.
Thanks for sharing this simple and cute card, Debbie O! Can't wait to spend some time with you soon at the Stampin' Up! convention in Salt Lake City where we will be "trading cards" and I will be coming home with hundreds of ideas.
Also, July 1 I will be posting my list of retiring stamp sets. Be sure to check back with me on July 1st (just after midnight). You will need to email me your list. All stamp sets will be marked down to 60% of their book value. First come, first served!
Friday, June 24, 2011
Always Wanting to Learn ...
This past Saturday I had the privledge of taking a Copic Marker class. I had heard so much about these markers and was excited to get an opportunity here at Sun City to see what they were all about. Here's a copy of one of the cards we made at the class:
I really did like them; but my thrifty side had a tough time paying for them when I had the entire set of Stampin' Up! markers at home. I did like the fact that they do a great job of shading (there are over 300 colors available to purchase). I wasn't sure if I could shade with the 48 colors we have. So, I came home and started playing with Stampin' Up! markers and our Blender Pens (pg. 195, #102845, $9.95/3). The following photos are some finished cards I made with the images I colored using my own Stampin' Up! markers:
Being a watercolor artist, I've been using the ink from the markers with the Aqua Painter (pg. 195 #103954, $16.95) almost exclusively and have been teaching my students to do the same. While this makes for a very nice watercolor look, it was not as "rich" a look as the copic markers. Today I discovered how to use the Stampin' Up! markers on Stampin' Up!'s Whisper White cardstock with Blender Pens to create these richer looks.
If I get enough positive responses, I will hold a class to share my experiences today with our own Stampin' Up! markers and Blender Pens.
I really did like them; but my thrifty side had a tough time paying for them when I had the entire set of Stampin' Up! markers at home. I did like the fact that they do a great job of shading (there are over 300 colors available to purchase). I wasn't sure if I could shade with the 48 colors we have. So, I came home and started playing with Stampin' Up! markers and our Blender Pens (pg. 195, #102845, $9.95/3). The following photos are some finished cards I made with the images I colored using my own Stampin' Up! markers:
Being a watercolor artist, I've been using the ink from the markers with the Aqua Painter (pg. 195 #103954, $16.95) almost exclusively and have been teaching my students to do the same. While this makes for a very nice watercolor look, it was not as "rich" a look as the copic markers. Today I discovered how to use the Stampin' Up! markers on Stampin' Up!'s Whisper White cardstock with Blender Pens to create these richer looks.
If I get enough positive responses, I will hold a class to share my experiences today with our own Stampin' Up! markers and Blender Pens.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Tart & Tangy -- Bye Bye
Tart & Tangy stamp set (pg. 136 of current catalog - $12.95) is yet another one of my favorite stamp sets. This is one of the most widely seen stamps out there on the numerous blogs I follow.
Here I used the marker technique and the rock n' roll technique. Let's start with the strawberry. First I colored in the strawberry with real red and the stem and leaves with old olive. I then took the Pumpkin Pie marker and went over part of the red strawberry giving it a hint of light hitting it on that side.
To make the orange slice go with the other items, I colored it in with pumpkin pie. Then I rolled the outter edge of the orange slice stamp in the real red ink pad. What do you think!
The rock n' roll technique works well with many stamps. I like using it with a lot of my flower stamps, too.
Tart and Tangy will only be available until June 30, 2011. If you like it as I do, be sure to go to my website and order it today before it's gone.
Happy Stampin Day!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Touch of Kindness and Flower Garden Embossing Folder
There's something about this stamp set (pg. 25 of Summer Mini Catalog) that just said, "buy, buy, buy". So I did and I've been having such fun playing with it. 
As much as I love the cat and the bird bath images, I chose on this one to combine it will the Flower Garden embossing folder (pg. 24 of the Summer Mini Catalog) and vellum paper. The sayings in the Touch of Kindness stamp set coordinate with our punches as you can see here.
It's hard to see, but the entire card was sprayed with a mixture of our Champaigne Mist Shimmer Paint (pg. 195 of 2011 catalog) and household rubbing alcohol. Gives it a beautiful sparkle!
Naturals Ivory and Soft Suede card stock were used with this card along with the vellum paper. Hope you enjoyed today's card!
As much as I love the cat and the bird bath images, I chose on this one to combine it will the Flower Garden embossing folder (pg. 24 of the Summer Mini Catalog) and vellum paper. The sayings in the Touch of Kindness stamp set coordinate with our punches as you can see here.
It's hard to see, but the entire card was sprayed with a mixture of our Champaigne Mist Shimmer Paint (pg. 195 of 2011 catalog) and household rubbing alcohol. Gives it a beautiful sparkle!
Naturals Ivory and Soft Suede card stock were used with this card along with the vellum paper. Hope you enjoyed today's card!
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Happy Fathers' Day ...
RICK ... and all those other great dads out there in Bonnie's Blog World!
Well, come to think of it, maybe there aren't any men out there in Bonnie's Blog World ... oh well, Happy Fathers' Day to all Great dads everywhere!
In honor of Rick, I want to share with you his Happy Father's Day "Rum Rum" Card. In January, much to my dismay, Rick bought his first Harley. He just loves it. When he comes and goes, it is so loud ... rum ... rum ... rum. So, thus, came the name "Rum Rum".
Okay, so what's so Stampin' Up! special about this card. Except for the cardstock and the Dirt Bike single stamp (inside card .. photo coming up soon and will be retired as of 6/30/11)and the Jumbo Eyelet (which are coming back ... yeah ... very masculine), not a whole lot. While on the Shop Hop last week I purchased some Harley paper and Harley embossed metal. I just had to play with it. What is special about this card for you is the fun folds! It ends up being a 4x4" card when closed, and 8x8" when opened. Follow along with the photos:
Here are directions to make this card. If you get too confused by my written instructions, come to Diva in July. I am putting together a more feminine card with ribbons and all. You will be able to see a sample of this one close up with my original closure!
Cut cardstock 8x8" Score at 4". Turn 1/4 turn and score again at 4". You should have four equal blocks. Now, put opposite points on a straight line on your scoring instrument and score point to point.
Now here's where it will be difficult to explain ... (you may just have to come to see it done!) Push this last score line in so that the rest of the card will fold to a 4x4 card. As you fold these lines, you will need to use your bone folder to get solid folds for it to lay flat.
The piece of embossed metal on the front was cut 3 3/4" x 3 3/4" as well as the DSP paper inside and the bottom layer inside. The "Happy Fathers' Day" layer inside (very vanilla CS) was cut 3 1/2" x 3 1/2". You can decorate the front any way you want.
To make the closure, I cut a small piece of soft suede card stock, ran it through the big shot with the lattice embossing folder. Then using my Crop A Dial, I set the Jumbo Eyelet. I rounded the corners in the front with the corner rounder punch. I glued this piece on the back and tucked it under the Motorcycle layer on the front. Unfortunately this motorcycle stamp is already retired, but like the previous "on the green" single stamp (golfer) I recently used and will be retiring on June 30, 2011, it is a stamp I will not part with! Some stamps are just "keepers!"
When life settles down a little, I'd like to do some videos, and this would make a good video. It really is easy to do when shown. If you know of anyone who would like a few inspirations a week, please pass this blog address onto any stampers you know. I'm hoping it will get better!. http://bzstampin.blogspot.com.
Have a great day! And Happy Father's Day, Ricky Z!
Well, come to think of it, maybe there aren't any men out there in Bonnie's Blog World ... oh well, Happy Fathers' Day to all Great dads everywhere!
In honor of Rick, I want to share with you his Happy Father's Day "Rum Rum" Card. In January, much to my dismay, Rick bought his first Harley. He just loves it. When he comes and goes, it is so loud ... rum ... rum ... rum. So, thus, came the name "Rum Rum".
Okay, so what's so Stampin' Up! special about this card. Except for the cardstock and the Dirt Bike single stamp (inside card .. photo coming up soon and will be retired as of 6/30/11)and the Jumbo Eyelet (which are coming back ... yeah ... very masculine), not a whole lot. While on the Shop Hop last week I purchased some Harley paper and Harley embossed metal. I just had to play with it. What is special about this card for you is the fun folds! It ends up being a 4x4" card when closed, and 8x8" when opened. Follow along with the photos:
Here are directions to make this card. If you get too confused by my written instructions, come to Diva in July. I am putting together a more feminine card with ribbons and all. You will be able to see a sample of this one close up with my original closure!
Cut cardstock 8x8" Score at 4". Turn 1/4 turn and score again at 4". You should have four equal blocks. Now, put opposite points on a straight line on your scoring instrument and score point to point.
Now here's where it will be difficult to explain ... (you may just have to come to see it done!) Push this last score line in so that the rest of the card will fold to a 4x4 card. As you fold these lines, you will need to use your bone folder to get solid folds for it to lay flat.
The piece of embossed metal on the front was cut 3 3/4" x 3 3/4" as well as the DSP paper inside and the bottom layer inside. The "Happy Fathers' Day" layer inside (very vanilla CS) was cut 3 1/2" x 3 1/2". You can decorate the front any way you want.
To make the closure, I cut a small piece of soft suede card stock, ran it through the big shot with the lattice embossing folder. Then using my Crop A Dial, I set the Jumbo Eyelet. I rounded the corners in the front with the corner rounder punch. I glued this piece on the back and tucked it under the Motorcycle layer on the front. Unfortunately this motorcycle stamp is already retired, but like the previous "on the green" single stamp (golfer) I recently used and will be retiring on June 30, 2011, it is a stamp I will not part with! Some stamps are just "keepers!"
When life settles down a little, I'd like to do some videos, and this would make a good video. It really is easy to do when shown. If you know of anyone who would like a few inspirations a week, please pass this blog address onto any stampers you know. I'm hoping it will get better!. http://bzstampin.blogspot.com.
Have a great day! And Happy Father's Day, Ricky Z!
Friday, June 17, 2011
WE HAVE A WINNER !!!
Yes, someone is going to receive $50 in free product next month from our 50/50 drawing last night! You will have to keep reading to find out who it is ... a hint, it's not the same person who one the last two drawings (sorry, Dorinda :-).
For those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about ... here it goes. Every time someone puts in an order for $50 or more in product, they get to put their name on my 50/50 chart. That includes every $50 in product, so if their order (before taxes and shipping) is, say, $100, then they get two spots on the 50/50 chart. (Buying a Big Shot will automatically qualify you for two spots!) When the chart is full, we cut up the chart, put all the names in a basket, and draw one lucky name who wins $50 in free Stampin' Up! items. I always do it at a Diva club meeting so we have witnesses that's it's correct.
Well, last night during the chocolate martini's after Diva Club, we filled up the chart and drew one name ...
But, before we get to that, here's one card idea for you. I am very busy in the next few days with Diva club and entering Diva orders. This is a card I had made and it's a Good News/Bad News card. Good news, the stamp set used here, Cottage Garden (pg. 107) will be back in the new catalog. The bad news, Sunny Garden Designer Series Paper (pg. 174) will no longer be available for sale after June 30, 2011. Remember, check the Last Chance part of my website for some good, discounted buys!
If you have not received your new catalog, please contact me and I'll be sure to reserve one for you. The cost is $10. Divas, you get them for free!!! Just another benefit of being a special, regular customer.
Okay, you've been so patient ... the big winner of $50 free product is ....
Bonnie Shoup!
Congratulations, Bonnie. If you want to use this free shopping to get any last-chance items before June 30, let me know before noon on Tuesday, June 21. Otherwise, you can use this on your July order!
Stay tuned for my next blog for more information on my Christmas in July extravaganza and a sneak preview of one of the cards to be made ...
Happy, Happy Stamping!!!!!
For those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about ... here it goes. Every time someone puts in an order for $50 or more in product, they get to put their name on my 50/50 chart. That includes every $50 in product, so if their order (before taxes and shipping) is, say, $100, then they get two spots on the 50/50 chart. (Buying a Big Shot will automatically qualify you for two spots!) When the chart is full, we cut up the chart, put all the names in a basket, and draw one lucky name who wins $50 in free Stampin' Up! items. I always do it at a Diva club meeting so we have witnesses that's it's correct.
Well, last night during the chocolate martini's after Diva Club, we filled up the chart and drew one name ...
But, before we get to that, here's one card idea for you. I am very busy in the next few days with Diva club and entering Diva orders. This is a card I had made and it's a Good News/Bad News card. Good news, the stamp set used here, Cottage Garden (pg. 107) will be back in the new catalog. The bad news, Sunny Garden Designer Series Paper (pg. 174) will no longer be available for sale after June 30, 2011. Remember, check the Last Chance part of my website for some good, discounted buys!
If you have not received your new catalog, please contact me and I'll be sure to reserve one for you. The cost is $10. Divas, you get them for free!!! Just another benefit of being a special, regular customer.
Okay, you've been so patient ... the big winner of $50 free product is ....
Bonnie Shoup!
Congratulations, Bonnie. If you want to use this free shopping to get any last-chance items before June 30, let me know before noon on Tuesday, June 21. Otherwise, you can use this on your July order!
Stay tuned for my next blog for more information on my Christmas in July extravaganza and a sneak preview of one of the cards to be made ...
Happy, Happy Stamping!!!!!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
...My Diversion
Okay, you all know my passion is Stampin' Up! I just love their products. But, with that said, I know there are other stamp companies out there ... no really, there are! :-)
Last Saturday I organized a Shop Hop and we went to four different Stamping Stores throughout North Carolina. Enchanted Cottage (6275 Shallowford Rd., Lewisville, NC) was my favorite. It's been around for 17 years and is just room after room of stamps and stamping supplies! There I found what I've been looking for for some time ... mermaid stamps.
One of my very best friends, Kimber, who lives near Charleston, SC, has recently given up her high profile real estate career to open a furniture/gift consignment shop between Charleston and Myrtle Beach on Route 17 (Awendaw, SC). It's called "Low Country Mermaid" and is absolutely awesome. She finds "steals" at Goodwill, flea markets, yard sales, etc., refurbishes them and turns them into masterpieces. She's always been an incredible woman; and this is no exception to her talents! Walking into her store which had just opened in January, brought tears to my eyes. She is so into her element!!! And her store was awesome! If you're ever in that area, stop by.
Well anyway, I've been wanting to make her some cards to display/sell in her unique mermaid store. This is one of them. Simple but elegant. Notice the dazzling diamonds on the mermaid:
A simple technique and was reinspired in my by one of the cards I saw at the Enchanted Cottage. These two mermaid stamps were worth the entire trip!
Last Saturday I organized a Shop Hop and we went to four different Stamping Stores throughout North Carolina. Enchanted Cottage (6275 Shallowford Rd., Lewisville, NC) was my favorite. It's been around for 17 years and is just room after room of stamps and stamping supplies! There I found what I've been looking for for some time ... mermaid stamps.
One of my very best friends, Kimber, who lives near Charleston, SC, has recently given up her high profile real estate career to open a furniture/gift consignment shop between Charleston and Myrtle Beach on Route 17 (Awendaw, SC). It's called "Low Country Mermaid" and is absolutely awesome. She finds "steals" at Goodwill, flea markets, yard sales, etc., refurbishes them and turns them into masterpieces. She's always been an incredible woman; and this is no exception to her talents! Walking into her store which had just opened in January, brought tears to my eyes. She is so into her element!!! And her store was awesome! If you're ever in that area, stop by.
Well anyway, I've been wanting to make her some cards to display/sell in her unique mermaid store. This is one of them. Simple but elegant. Notice the dazzling diamonds on the mermaid:
A simple technique and was reinspired in my by one of the cards I saw at the Enchanted Cottage. These two mermaid stamps were worth the entire trip!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Bye Bye Sunny Garden Designer Series Paper
I will miss Sunny Garden Designer Series Paper (DSP)(pg. 174 of 2010-2011 catalog). As some of you may or may not remember, this was one of the DSP's that I used to do my Girls Night Out Party. (More on that later...)
The good news is that Awash with Flowers (pg. 99) is back in the new catalog. I love this stamp set because ANYONE can look like a watercolor artist with this two-step stamp set. And, if you get the clear mount set, you can actually mount several line stamps on one large clear block to save a lot of time. Just a very fun stamp set!
How do you like the embossed Ornament Punch for a vase ... tons of uses for this Ornament Punch. I'm putting together a Punch Me Silly Class. This punch will be used in a way not even close to looking like a Christmas Ornament! Stay Tuned ... more in a later blog.
Okay, more about Girls Night Out. I still have two packages of this fabulous paper left. Here's a brief description about Girls Night Out:
"If you need a fun thing to do with some of your friends at your home or next club meeting, I am now offering a Girls Night Out Party. I need a minimum of 7 girls to do this (maximum of 8). The cost is $25 per person. THERE IS NO OBLIGATION FOR ANYONE TO PURCHASE ANYTHING, but they can if they like. They get to make 12 cards with envelopes and a bookmarker. You, as the hostess, get two stamp sets, 3-4 ink pads, and lots of left-over supplies to make more cards at your leisure. If you book and pay for your party during Sale-A-Bration, you also get to choose 3 additional free items. If you get 7 paid girls, then your's is free. If this sounds like something you would like to do for your girlfriends or a club or any occassion, please let me know and I will email you the specifics. You would need to have three tables set up with at least 3 chairs at each table/work area ... nothing fancy."
Again, I have two packages of this paper left. If you want to have your friends over, let me know ASAP and I'll reserve one of the packages for you.
Okay, enough of this ... come back tomorrow to see My Diversion...
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Greenhouse Gala Designer Series Paper
Good News, Bad News ...
Bad news ... Greenhouse Gala Designer Series Paper (173) will no longer be available after June 30th, 2011. I will miss this paper as it coordinates so well with the Friends Never Fade Stamp Set and the Ornate Blossom Stamp (pg. 99). If you have these stamp(s), you may want to consider stocking up on this paper!
Good (GREAT) news is that Friends Never Fade and Ornate Blossom Stamps WILL BE BACK! In addition, so will all the In-Color 1/2" Stitched-Poly Ribbons on page 190 of current catalog.
Wait until you see the new ribbon collection for the new in-colors -- 3/8" Ruffled Ribbon (pg. 194 in new catalog). I got a sneak preview and they are beautiful. I will be buying a supply of these new ribbons on July 1st to do a ribbon share for July Divas. If you know you want to be included, email me at bzstampin@live.com. You will get 2 yards of each color for $10.
Remember, the current In-Colors (Blushing Bride, Peach Parfait, Poppy Parade, Concord Crush and Pear Pizzaz will be good until June 30, 2012 -- one more year! The new in-colors will be good for two years (through 2013). I'm really happy Stampin' Up! has changed this .. great change! In-colors used to be good for only one year.
The flower on this card was colored in with markers. The colors used here were Daffodil Delight, Pear Pizzaz, Pumpkin Pie and Whisper White. The framed Tulips Embossing Folder (121809 - $7.95) was also used and WILL BE BACK ... YEAH!
Had a super (and long) day yesterday on our Shop Hop. Lots of ideas and fun had by all. I spent most of the today playing with my new toys! Thanks to all of you who participated!!!
Bad news ... Greenhouse Gala Designer Series Paper (173) will no longer be available after June 30th, 2011. I will miss this paper as it coordinates so well with the Friends Never Fade Stamp Set and the Ornate Blossom Stamp (pg. 99). If you have these stamp(s), you may want to consider stocking up on this paper!
Good (GREAT) news is that Friends Never Fade and Ornate Blossom Stamps WILL BE BACK! In addition, so will all the In-Color 1/2" Stitched-Poly Ribbons on page 190 of current catalog.
Wait until you see the new ribbon collection for the new in-colors -- 3/8" Ruffled Ribbon (pg. 194 in new catalog). I got a sneak preview and they are beautiful. I will be buying a supply of these new ribbons on July 1st to do a ribbon share for July Divas. If you know you want to be included, email me at bzstampin@live.com. You will get 2 yards of each color for $10.
Remember, the current In-Colors (Blushing Bride, Peach Parfait, Poppy Parade, Concord Crush and Pear Pizzaz will be good until June 30, 2012 -- one more year! The new in-colors will be good for two years (through 2013). I'm really happy Stampin' Up! has changed this .. great change! In-colors used to be good for only one year.
The flower on this card was colored in with markers. The colors used here were Daffodil Delight, Pear Pizzaz, Pumpkin Pie and Whisper White. The framed Tulips Embossing Folder (121809 - $7.95) was also used and WILL BE BACK ... YEAH!
Had a super (and long) day yesterday on our Shop Hop. Lots of ideas and fun had by all. I spent most of the today playing with my new toys! Thanks to all of you who participated!!!
Saturday, June 11, 2011
"Hello Again" retiring July 1, 2011
Another simple little stamp set. Five small stamps all proportioned to go together. This set (pg. 110 - #113780 - $12.95) will be gone, too after June 30th.
I received this stamp set free at the Stampin' Up! convention last year. Another convention is coming up in Salt Lake City mid July. I can't wait to go. Just another benefit of being a demonstrator. I've been able to see the 6 free sets I will be getting this year ... I'm so excited! If you ever have a desire to have a career where you play all day, let me know. I'd love to talk more!
Here's another simple card. I recently tought this technique "Masking" at a techniques class at the Sun City Lakehouse. I used "hello" from this same "Hello Again" stamp set.
If at any time you are interested in taking classes with me, please email me at: bzstampin@live.com. I will soon be posting my classes on this blog, but until then, don't hesitate to contact me directly.
By the way, Tiny Teacup (used here) is in the new catalog as well as the greetings set "Sincere Salutations" (used above - pg. 155). These two popular stamps survived the "cut". :-)
Friday, June 10, 2011
Bye Bye Tooth Fairy
Tooth Fairy ... just a simple little single stamp (pg. 18 - #119216 - $7.95) but what a fun stamp to have if you have young children or young grandkids. How fun would it be to wake up after putting your tooth under your pillow to find this ...
In addition to the Tooth Fairy Stamp, I used my Big Shot and the Scallop Envelope bigz die (pg. 206-#113462-$21.95) and the 1 3/4" Scallop Circle Extra Large punch (pg. 200-#119854-$16.95. The Scallop Envelope bigz die makes the cutest little scalloped envelope. I then wrapped it with So Saffron Taffeta ribbon. Certainly Celery and Not Quite Navy were combined with So Saffron on this one. And what would be a Tooth Fairy card without some sparkle. Two-way glue and Dazzling Diamonds glitter gave it sparkle.
Too bad when we lose teeth at this age we don't find this under our pillow filled with money. I guess it's because the poor old teeth just shatter and are worthless for the tooth fairy ... ha ha ha.
Happy Stamping!
In addition to the Tooth Fairy Stamp, I used my Big Shot and the Scallop Envelope bigz die (pg. 206-#113462-$21.95) and the 1 3/4" Scallop Circle Extra Large punch (pg. 200-#119854-$16.95. The Scallop Envelope bigz die makes the cutest little scalloped envelope. I then wrapped it with So Saffron Taffeta ribbon. Certainly Celery and Not Quite Navy were combined with So Saffron on this one. And what would be a Tooth Fairy card without some sparkle. Two-way glue and Dazzling Diamonds glitter gave it sparkle.
Too bad when we lose teeth at this age we don't find this under our pillow filled with money. I guess it's because the poor old teeth just shatter and are worthless for the tooth fairy ... ha ha ha.
Happy Stamping!
Thursday, June 9, 2011
New In-Colors
Oh, it's been a great two days. The catalogs arrived late on Tuesday and then yesterday around 4 p.m. my pre-order for the new catalog arrived. Being a demonstrator sure has its benefits. We get to see and play with the new stuff about a month before everyone else can order. I guess you now know why there was no blog last night ... he he he.
Okay, the other day I made this card using the current in-colors and Crazy For Cupcakes stamp set. I thought it was cute. When I got the retired list, I was sad to see the Designer Label Punch (#31 on pg. 203 of current catalog) was being retired. It layers so perfectly with the 1" and 1 1/8" circle punches. If you don't have it in your punch collection, you may want to get it before it's gone (June 30th).
I also used the For You Flower stamp (pg. 19, $7.95) which, too, will be retiring on July 1st. Works perfectly with the Fancy Flower Extra Large punch (pg. 200 - #4 - $16.95). Here I just punched it out with the 1" circle punch and layered it on a 1 1/8" circle.
So, now the new In-Colors arrived yesterday. I thought I'd make up a card using the new in-colors to show my Divas next week. Here it is. I tried using a double Modern Label Extra-Large punch since the Designer Label punch will be gone. I will miss using my Designer Label Punch!
If you haven't gotten your new catalog yet, wait until you see some of the new embossing folders ... I can't wait until July 1 to put my order in!
Don't forget to check the Clearance Rack daily ... some items are selling out quickly. It's all Good!
I also used the For You Flower stamp (pg. 19, $7.95) which, too, will be retiring on July 1st. Works perfectly with the Fancy Flower Extra Large punch (pg. 200 - #4 - $16.95). Here I just punched it out with the 1" circle punch and layered it on a 1 1/8" circle.
If you haven't gotten your new catalog yet, wait until you see some of the new embossing folders ... I can't wait until July 1 to put my order in!
Don't forget to check the Clearance Rack daily ... some items are selling out quickly. It's all Good!
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
The New Catalogs Have Just Arrived
They are here!!!!!
Was up until 2 a.m. last night going though my new catalog. Every year I don't think it can get better. It always does! Wow, wow, wow!
I'll be out all a.m. on appointments. Email or call me if you'd like to pick up your copy later today.
Gotta run ...
Was up until 2 a.m. last night going though my new catalog. Every year I don't think it can get better. It always does! Wow, wow, wow!
I'll be out all a.m. on appointments. Email or call me if you'd like to pick up your copy later today.
Gotta run ...
On the Green
On the Green individual stamp (pg. 19 - 117139 - $9.95) will not be going up for sale soon after it's retirement on 7/1/11. Living in a 55+ community built around a beautiful golf course, this is a must stamp for me to make Men's cards!!!
These two samples were again Book Mark cards using the Two Tags bigz dies (pg. 206 - 115954 - $21.95) and our Big Shot die cutting machine (pg. 204 - 113439 - $99.95). If you do not have a die cutting machine, let me know. I will explain how you can hostess a party and receive one at half price. Yes, our hostess benefits program will be changing after 7/1/11. I know you will love the changes. More freebies and now half-priced items, too.
Christmas in July - Sneak Preview
Yes, by popular demand, we are going to hold a Christmas in July Stamp a Stack on Monday, July 25th. I will be open from 1-9 for you to come in and make 20 Christmas Cards(4 designs/5 of each)with envelopes included for $25. 
We will be making simple but elegant cards. This class will be suitable for all levels. If you are like me and find that it's December 1 and I haven't even started my Christmas cards yet, this class is for you! We will be getting a jump start and have at least 25 cards to send out!
Another sneak preview ... I do think you will love them all!
If you are interested in attending, you must RSVP to me via email before July 4th! I need ample time to prepare all of these cards! Again, I will be open from 1-9 p.m. on the 25th. Allow about 2-3 hours to finish all the cards.
I will be giving instructions at 1 p.m. 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. When you RSVP, please let me know what time you will be arriving.
Also, we will be having Christmas in July door prize drawings at 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. You can stay for the day if you want!!!
The 8 p.m. drawing will be for $25 free product from the new catalog!!! So basically your cards will be FREE!!! You will not need to be present to win. Only paid stampers are eligible for the drawings ... so if you're coming, you may want to prepay for the class! Then your name will be in for all the drawings!
We will be making simple but elegant cards. This class will be suitable for all levels. If you are like me and find that it's December 1 and I haven't even started my Christmas cards yet, this class is for you! We will be getting a jump start and have at least 25 cards to send out!
Another sneak preview ... I do think you will love them all!
If you are interested in attending, you must RSVP to me via email before July 4th! I need ample time to prepare all of these cards! Again, I will be open from 1-9 p.m. on the 25th. Allow about 2-3 hours to finish all the cards.
I will be giving instructions at 1 p.m. 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. When you RSVP, please let me know what time you will be arriving.
Also, we will be having Christmas in July door prize drawings at 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. You can stay for the day if you want!!!
The 8 p.m. drawing will be for $25 free product from the new catalog!!! So basically your cards will be FREE!!! You will not need to be present to win. Only paid stampers are eligible for the drawings ... so if you're coming, you may want to prepay for the class! Then your name will be in for all the drawings!
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Engraved Etchings
A SURPRISE FOR ALL MY DIVA FOLLOWERS ... READ ON TO THE END.
Another stamp set that will not be on my clearance table of retired stamp sets. I'm always looking for good stamps to make men's cards. This set falls into that catagory. Engraved Etchings (pg. 182 - 117116 - $12.95) will not be available to purchase after 6/30/11. Enjoy these two sample cards.
The 1 1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon was purchased from the Clearance Rack
. While you can still purchase other colors from the regular catalog (pg. 191) through 6/30/11, I found this on the clearance rack a month or so ago. I was sure to purchase a color that was a current SU color for easy matching. This is riding hood red (not in the current catalog).
Stop back tomorrow for another great "man" stamp which will be retiring soon, too.
OKAY, NOW FOR THE DIVA SURPRISE: The new catalogs are scheduled to arrive later this afternoon (Tues, 6/7). Call me before 6:30 if you'd like to stop by tonight or tomorrow to get your copy!!
Another stamp set that will not be on my clearance table of retired stamp sets. I'm always looking for good stamps to make men's cards. This set falls into that catagory. Engraved Etchings (pg. 182 - 117116 - $12.95) will not be available to purchase after 6/30/11. Enjoy these two sample cards.
The 1 1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon was purchased from the Clearance Rack
. While you can still purchase other colors from the regular catalog (pg. 191) through 6/30/11, I found this on the clearance rack a month or so ago. I was sure to purchase a color that was a current SU color for easy matching. This is riding hood red (not in the current catalog).
Stop back tomorrow for another great "man" stamp which will be retiring soon, too.
OKAY, NOW FOR THE DIVA SURPRISE: The new catalogs are scheduled to arrive later this afternoon (Tues, 6/7). Call me before 6:30 if you'd like to stop by tonight or tomorrow to get your copy!!
Monday, June 6, 2011
Simply Said - Final Photos
Okay, I know I'm stuck on "Simply Said" stamp set, but I just had to play with it one more time. Over the weekend I got out two quarter sheets of Whisper White Card stock and just started stamping with the different stamps in the set. As you may or may not know, one of Stampin' Up!'s biggest claims to fame is the fact that their stamp sets are so coordinated, giving the user all properly sized images to use together.
After stamping images onto the quarter sheets, I then cut them to the sizes I needed to make the above cards. (You can see the extra pieces on the top). Oh, I forgot ... I used the Color Coach (pg. 165 - 121620 - $14.95) to perfectly match the colors. You'd think I'd know what colors go well together (being a former watercolor artist); but no, this was always difficult for me. I now use the Color Coach when I do a watercolor piece, too.
Then to add a little pizzaz to my cards I used the the 2-Way Glue Pen (pg 197 - 100425 - $3.50) and some Dazzling Diamonds Glitter (pg. 196 - 102023 - $4.50). From bland to walahhhh!
Oh, by the way, the ribbon used was purchased from Stampin' Up!'s clearance rack for pennies. Be sure to check out the Clearance Rack daily to see what else they've reduced. A hint ... try to get the current color ribbons, buttons, paper etc. so you can be sure to match other items later.
This is one stamp set you won't find on my clearance table! If you like it too, be sure to order it before 6/30/11. It will be retired after that!
Stop back tomorrow for photos of another one of my favorite soon-to-be retired sets ...
After stamping images onto the quarter sheets, I then cut them to the sizes I needed to make the above cards. (You can see the extra pieces on the top). Oh, I forgot ... I used the Color Coach (pg. 165 - 121620 - $14.95) to perfectly match the colors. You'd think I'd know what colors go well together (being a former watercolor artist); but no, this was always difficult for me. I now use the Color Coach when I do a watercolor piece, too.
Then to add a little pizzaz to my cards I used the the 2-Way Glue Pen (pg 197 - 100425 - $3.50) and some Dazzling Diamonds Glitter (pg. 196 - 102023 - $4.50). From bland to walahhhh!
Oh, by the way, the ribbon used was purchased from Stampin' Up!'s clearance rack for pennies. Be sure to check out the Clearance Rack daily to see what else they've reduced. A hint ... try to get the current color ribbons, buttons, paper etc. so you can be sure to match other items later.
This is one stamp set you won't find on my clearance table! If you like it too, be sure to order it before 6/30/11. It will be retired after that!
Stop back tomorrow for photos of another one of my favorite soon-to-be retired sets ...
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Simply Said -- Again!
Rich Razzleberry and a touch of black and and a white gel pen give Simply Said a totally different look.
Here Pumpkin Pie combined with Simply Said has yet another look.
After June 30th, Simply Said will not be available. Hope you enjoyed these few cards in my collection.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Simply Said --- Bye Bye
Here are two cards I made recently from this set. Check back tomorrow for two more. I truly love hearts ... guess that's why this is one of my favorites!
This would be perfect to send to someone you may know serving our country.
Here's another one ...This is a two-in-one card ... not only does the recipient get a card from you, but also a magnetic bookmarker, too.
Check back tomorrow for more cards from this stamp set.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
A Flower for All Seasons - A fond farewell
The Aqua Writer (pg. 195 of the current catalog #103954-2/$16.95) makes watercoloring easy from either an ink pad, reinkers, or even marker pens. I prefer the aqua writer, but some prefer the blender pens (pg. 195 - 3/$9.95). They both can be used with watercolor Wonder Crayons or Watercolor Pencils (pg. 194). Here are some hints from our Stampin' Up! website training:
Directions:
1) Dip the tip of a blender pen on to the corner of a Stampin' Pastel, then apply color to the stamped image.
OR
1) Brush the tip of a blender pen, Aqua Painter, or wet watercolor brush directly on the tip of a Watercolor Wonder Crayon, then apply color to the stamped image.
OR
1) Color a section of the stamped image with a Watercolor Wonder Crayon or Watercolor Pencil. Then use a blender pen, Aqua Painter, or wet watercolor brush to blend color as desired.
OR
1) Press the closed lid of a Classic Stampin' Pad down against the inked pad, then open the lid. Use a blender pen, Aqua Painter or damp watercolor brush to lift the ink from the small pool of color in the lid and apply to stamped image.
They recommend watercolor paper. I personally love to use Stazon permanent black ink on our Whisper White cardstock and watercolor on that. Very smooth and neat.
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