The Countdown Begins!

16 Sleeps to go!

I'm so excited (and I just can't hide it!) My team and I are getting together to showcase the gorgeous products available in the brand new Summer Mini which starts on the 1st December. Our Blog Hop tour will start at 8pm on the 30th November and you will be able to "hop" from Blog to Blog until you are back where you started. There are 14 stops in all, and each one will have inspiring projects for you to admire. It's going to be awesome!

...And as if that wasn't enough excitement, I will also be doing my ever-popular "12 Cards of Christmas" again. I'll tie it in with the countdown and show 1 project each day from Day 12 down to Day 1. You'll be in an absolute frenzy of excitement by the time December hits!

In the meantime, don't forget that the Spring Mini finishes at the end of this month, so you'll need to let me know if you need anything before it's gone forever!

Haiku and Trendy Trees

This is a class I ran a few months ago. It all started when I discovered a TON of Very Vanilla love notes, leftover from a class where I had used all Whisper White Love Notes. Not being one to waste things, I decided to design a class around them. When I looked at the DSP colours, I discovered that very few have vanilla in them - most are white. I decided on Haiku, and at the time I had no idea just how gorgeous these papers are. I'm not an orangey/yellow girl, but these have a lovely balance of the right shades of orange mixed with some lovely greens. I decided that Trendy Trees would work well on the little love notes, and I had requests to teach Liam's pocket tote, and that is how this little set was born!
This is the front of the Mini Pocket Tote Bag. That paper on the front is all one piece. The pattern is in striped panels...how cool is that?You can see a larger version of this tote that I made HERE and Liam's instructions are HERE.
I decided I really liked this DSP when I started using it, but I fell completely in love with the Haiku papers when I realised that the Circle Circus set co-ordinates with it. It just satisfies my little matchy-matchy heart when that happens :o)
Here it is from the side, so you can see how the cards fit in, and the dimension on the front:And this is how it opens:
And these are the cards inside:
The Love Notes are such a fun size to work with. These came together so quickly because I just kept the layout the same and swapped the strips of paper. I even put some DSP on the envelope flaps, so they tie in too.

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Trendy Trees, Circle Circus, Wow Flowers
ink: So Saffron, More Mustard, Tangerine Tango, Old Olive
card: Love Notes, So Saffron, More Mustard, Tangerine Tango, Old Olive, Very Vanilla
other: Word Window, Scallop Circle Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, 1 1/4" Circle Punch, Corner rounder, Sticky Strip

It's not too late!

I've been busy getting ready for my Farewell Spring Party on Sunday.
If you would like to come along, let me know ASAP. I still have a few places available!

Love Languages and Jo's Choo Choo card

I've actually sat down to make quite a few cards lately...my favourite kind of card to make; not cards for classes, magazines or workshops, but cards for people. I didn't even take the time to photograph them. There was something so satisfying in getting back to basics by making a card with a person in mind, writing some heartfelt words inside, and sealing it up and sending it on it's way, to hopefully brighten their day. I had a baby card, a sympathy card and a belated birthday card to make, and I made each one very different from the next. It reminded me how therapeutic card-making is, and how nice it is to be able to give a little something of yourself to someone you care about. I even had a little light bulb moment when I was making the cards. I'm a big fan of the "love language" concept. It occurred to me that a handmade card is a whole lot of love languages bundled up together. There are the words of affirmation you write inside, the quality time you spend thinking about the recipient while you make it, the gift of the card itself, the act of service in the making and they say "a handmade card is a hug with a fold in the middle", so it even covers physical affection!
So, no matter what love language the recipient is, they will feel loved by receiving a handmade card. So if there's someone who has been on your mind, go and make them feel loved by making them a card :o)

Now I have a card to show you that I've been meaning to get around to ever since I showed you my SideStep card. This is a card made by a lovely friend and customer of mine, Jo. She's done a very cute Choo Choo version:

Isn't is it fabulous? I love how she's used the Trio Flower punch to make smoke, and stuck them on wire coming out of the funnel. Clever!

Parisian Breeze Journal

It's always a bittersweet time when it's the last month of a mini catalogue...so sad to see some favourites go, but also excited to see the next offering from Stampin' Up!

This journal showcases 2 of my favourite products from the Spring Mini - Great Friend stamp set and Parisian Breeze DSP:

This DSP (Designer Series Paper) is not just ordinary paper. It's called Specialty paper, which means it is a heavier weight and also textured. I love all the patterns in this pack, and the combination of Baja Breeze and browns works equally well for males and females. It's also strong enough to make boxes and 3D items out of.

We used it in my project class a while ago to cover one of the Stampin' Up! Art Journals. I turned mine into an Inspiration Journal, where I can jot down colour combinations, sketches and inspiring pictures for those days when I am feeling completely uninspired (yes, I have those days too!).

We used the Spiral punch to make the holes in the cover (I love the way it fits perfectly and looks absolutely seamless). I cut my letters and butterflies out, and then applied Crystal Effects to make them glossy. I even made a ribbon bookmark and attached some Pretties Kit beads to the end.

The Spiral Punch and smaller 5x5 Art Journal are on the Christmas Extravaganza list. I've bought the small one, and I'm going to decorate it as a Chrissy present for Amy. She starts high school next year, and I'm scared she'll stop telling me all the little things that go on in her life. I'm going to call it our Pillow Talk book, and we can write messages to eachother and leave it on eachother's pillow :o) I'll have to make a purple cover with butterflies..her two favourite things!

NEWSFLASH: Stampin' Up! have just announced that you now have a choice of 2 punches for the Christmas Extravaganza: the Scallop Square or Boho Blossom Punch (pictured). Woo Hoo! Let me know if you'd like to treat yourself (or someone else) to $85 worth of goodies from the list, so you can get your FREE punch ($30.95 value!).

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Jumbo Alphabet, Great Friend
ink: Baja Breeze, Sahara Sand, Chocolate Chip, Sahara Sand
card: Whisper White, Baja Breeze, Kraft
other: Spiral Punch, Pretties Kit, White Taffeta Ribbon, Parisian Breeze DSP, Crystal Effects

Challenge #5 Winners!

My Challenge for October was to make a card using no stamps whatsoever (I know...what was I thinking?). But some clever ladies have risen to the challenge, and created masterpieces.
I love this clever piano card by Di. I'll be storing that idea away for future use!
You can go HERE to see each entry individually (make sure you leave them a comment to tell them how clever they are!), and here is a slideshow of all the entries:

And now for my winners for this month...yes I did say winners because I simply cannot choose...they are
Kerry who produced not just one, but THREE gorgeous stampless creations HERE, HERE and HERE and
Jennifer who produced THIS gorgeous Christmas card

Both Kerry and Jennifer receive some Bright Delights Rub-ons for their efforts!

You're invited!

I'd love to see you at my Christmas Extravaganza event this month to Farewell Spring, and start the Silly Season off with a bang!

This is your chance to say goodbye to your favourite products from the Spring Mini Catalogue. It's also my "Merry Christmas" bash, and we can welcome in the Festive Season with a glass of bubbly and some nibblies.

You can make some gorgeous Christmas Tags to jazz up your Christmas presents. You'll make 8 tags and these are the 2 designs:

I've used mine to jazz up a couple of boxes of chockies. I just wrapped the chockies in some co-ordinating Designer Series paper and a bit of ribbon, and it makes a perfect easy-peasy gift (that looks like you spent hours making!)
PLUS there will be Special Offers and Discounts, Lucky Door Prizes, and of course a little pressie from me to take home.
I'm having 2 different time slots, so it won't be too crowded, but places are still limited!

When: Sunday 15th November
Time: 2:00pm- 4:00pm OR 7:00pm- 9:00pm
(let me know which time slot suits you when you RSVP)
Where: 27 Ryan St, Dundas Valley
Cost: FREE

PLACES ARE FILLING UP FAST, SO BOOK IN NOW!
Please RSVP by 8th November

Christmas Extravaganza

Want a free Scallop Square punch? What a silly question...of course you do!
All you have to do is find $85 worth of goodies from this list that you *need* and the punch will be yours for FREE. Yippee!You can read all about it on the flyer HERE. The offer is valid until 14th December.

Here is an itemised list of all the qualifying products:
Simply Scrappin Kits :
Petal Party $36.95 113059 Pg 136
Rock-a-bye girl $36.95 112165 Pg 137
Rock-a-bye Boy $36.95 112172 Pg 137
Sweet Nothings $36.95 113925 Pg 138
Hoppy Memories $36.95 113936 Pg 138
I wish $36.95 112193 Pg 137
Ribbons:
Old Olive 5/8" grosgrain ribbon $14.95 109054 Pg 151
Riding hood red 5/8" striped grosgrain ribbon $19.50 111374 Pg 150
Dress Up Ribbon Originals $24.95 114317 Pg 150
Valet Ribbon Originals $24.95 114318 Pg 150
Pigtails Ribbon Originals $27.95 114316 Pg 150
Simply Sent Kits:
Thanks x 2 Simply Sent Card Elements and More Kit $48.95 116809 Pg 142
More Thoughts simply sent kit $83.95 116810 Pg 143
2U simply sent card elements and More Kit $48.95 116808 Pg 142
No one like you Simply Sent Kit $83.95 116811 Pg 143
Stamp Sets:
From the Kitchen of Stamp set $52.95 115810 Pg 93
Just Jawing Stamp set $45.95 115828 Pg 67
Punches and Tools:
Curly label punch bundle $65.95 112966 Pg 153
Cutter Kit $33.95 106958 Pg 155
Spiral Punch $20.95 108341 Pg 152
Buttons:
Button Latte Designer Buttons $15.50 114333 Pg 151
Button Bouquet Designer Buttons $15.50 112092 Pg 151
Cardstock:
Kiwi Kiss A4 cardstock $10.50 116204 Pg 126
Whisper White A4 cardstock $13.50 106549 Pg 127
Real Red 12 x 12 cardstock $14.50 106545 Pg 128
Bold Brights A4 assorted cardstock $14.50 106560 Pg128
Markers:
Real Red Stampin’ Write marker $5.75 100052 Pg128
Brilliant Blue Stampin’ Write Marker $5.75 100057 Pg128
Glorious Green Stampin’ Write Marker $5.75 100047 Pg128
Other Items:
Small flat cellophane bags $7.50 103104 Pg 130
On Board 5 x 5 Art Journal $13.50 108495 Pg 147

Email me if you'd like to order items from this list and get your free punch!

NEWSFLASH: Stampin' Up! have just announced that you now have a choice of 2 punches for the Christmas Extravaganza: the Scallop Square or Boho Blossom Punch. Woo Hoo! Let me know if you'd like to treat yourself (or someone else) to $85 worth of goodies from the list, so you can get your FREE punch ($30.95 value!).

Soft Summer

It's getting towards that time of year when we have to say goodbye to all of the lovely stuff in the Spring Mini Catalogue (and I wonder how I will cope without the scallop oval punch until next September!!). I'm consoling myself by looking through the new Summer Mini Catalogue over and over again. Yes, I have it here in my hot little hands and there's some exciting stuff in there... and 7 sets brand new, never before seen in US catalogues!

But I'm getting ahead of myself. We still have one month left to enjoy the Scallop Oval, Oval All, Great Friend, Parisian Breeze, Ski Slope DSP, Tree Trimmings, and this lovely set Soft Summer: This was a Stamp-a-Stack I did back in August. Simple cards using fresh, summery colours. 2-step stamping makes it really quick and easy. These stamps are double-mounted, so it makes the set really cost-effective too - $41.95 for 6 stamps.

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Soft Summer, Oval All
ink:Cameo Coral, Ruby Red, Kiwi Kiss, So Saffron, More Mustard, Chocolate Chip
card: Cameo Coral, Ruby Red, Kiwi Kiss, So Saffron, More Mustard, Very Vanilla
other: Scallop Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, sponge daubers, stamp-a-ma-jig

Fresh Cuts Box

We made this cute little pizza box, perfectly sized to fit Fresh-Cut Notes in last month's Project Class. I thought it would make a nice little Christmas Gift too. This is what the top of the box looked like: and inside:

And this is the set of cards we made to go inside:

The Fresh Cut Notes are so quick and easy to make a set of cards from. They come in a pack of 15 for $17.50 (including envelopes). I've used the co-ordinating Fresh Cuts stamp set with it, but you could use any stamp set, or even just some Designer Series paper.
I used the "leftover" petals to make the flower for the top of the box, and a Jumbo brad holds the lid closed.

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Fresh Cuts
ink: Baja Breeze, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip
card: Baja Breeze, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip
other: Boho Blossoms Punch, 5-petal Flower Punch, Trio Flower Punch, sponge daubers, Jumbo brads (Spring Mini)

I survived!

Well I made it through the weekend, and am out the other side! The Craft Sale was a huge success (and heaps of fun too :o) Thank you to everyone who came along. We're already planning to do another one next October!

After the Craft Sale I came home and made up 80 Chocolate Wallet Kits...phew! Some were for people coming to my Open House yesterday, and some were for Project by Mail. I'll be closing off the Project by Mail this Friday (30th October), so email me now if you want to purchase a kit.
EDITED TO ADD: Demos are welcome to purchase kits (sorry, I am not selling instructions separately though). However I can only take orders from Australia.

It's a very dreary, rainy day here in Sydney today (but we do need the rain), so here's a *bright* card I made recently using Circle Circus:

It's a super-quick one to whip up if you need a card in a hurry. I hope it brightens up your day!

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Circle Circus, Think Happy Thoughts
ink: Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss, Tangerine Tango
card: Pacific Point, Kiwi Kiss, Tangerine Tango, Whisper White
other: Scallop Circle Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, 1 1/4" Circle Punch, 3/4" Circle Punch, mat pack, corner rounder, dimensionals

Punch Flower

Just a quick one today. I'm busy getting ready for a workshop tonight for a new downline (Hi Juliette!) and then our Craft Sale tomorrow, and my Open House on Sunday. Busy, busy! And, because it never rains but it pours, my cold that was dragging on and on has now developed into a Sinus Infection. I've never had one before and it is NOT fun. Hopefully the antibiotics will clear it up really quickly.
This was the other card we did at my "Punch and Fold" technique class this month:


We made a flower using the large tag punch. I just love my punches, and it's always good to find new ways to use them! The idea for this one came in our Demonstrator Newsletter. Each month we get sent a colour newsletter in the mail, with tons of ideas in it. Sitting down with a cuppa to read my newsletter is a highlight of my month (I know, I don't get out much, do I?! LOL)

I've used the Windsor Knot paper (these are just my colours!). The little tag is done using the Scallop Square Punch and I've made the greeting using markers and the Oval All stamp set.

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Weathered, Oval All
ink: Sage Shadow
card: Chocolate Chip, Sage Shadow, So Saffron
other: 3/4" circle punch, 1/2" circle punch, Jumbo brads, Windsor Knot DSP, Large Tag punch, Scallop Square Punch, 1/16" punch, linen thread, White grosgrain ribbon, Chocolate Double-Stitched ribbon

Guest Blogger!

I was gob-smacked (love that word!) when Cheryl showed me this card she had made for my October Challenge: I just love what she has done with the papers from the 'Sweet Nothings' Simply Scrappin' Kit, and how she has turned it into a Christmas card...all without using a single stamp!

You have until the end of this month to enter, and the winner will receive a sheet of Bright Delights Rub Ons. I would love you to jump on board. Anyone is Australia or New Zealand can enter.

I've had a few questions about this challenge. I would prefer the challenge entries to use mainly Stampin Up! products (or at least some, since this is a Stampin' Up! blog :o)

Just enter your card with Mister Linky HERE

Finally, some stamping!

You can probably tell by the plethora of blog pots today, that NSW school holidays have ended and my kids are back at school! I just love the holidays...letting go of the routine and spending time with my children are two of my favourite things in the world. Of course getting back into a routine and having some time to myself are two of my other favourite things!

I thought I would show you the second stamp-a-stack design from last month. We used the very cute Forest Friends stamp set (in the Spring Mini) to create some sweet little cards:

I kept these ones very clean and simple, with lots of white space. I also used a slightly different fold; I scored about 1cm in from the spine, and stuck down the scored section, so it opens up like a book. I know there's a special name for that type of fold, and they use it to describe photo albums that are made like that, but I can't for the life of me think of it (I would try googling, but I'm determined to get off this computer soon!!). Does anyone know the name of it??

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Forest Friends, Occasional Greetings, On Your Birthday, Sweet Little sentiments (Level 1 set)
ink: Baja Breeze, Pink Pirouettte, Close to Cocoa
card: Baja Breeze, Pink Pirouettte, Whisper White, Certainly Celery
other: Scallop Circle punch, 1 3/8" circle punch, 1 1/4" Circle Punch, White gel pen, Close to Cocoa marker, Eyelet Border punch, Designer Label punch, Corner rounder Punch, 1/2" Circle Punch, Baja Breeze striped Ribbon, Pink Pirouette Striped Ribbon, Crop-a-dile, Close to Cocoa Marker

World Cardmaking Day Promotion

It's October 19, and I haven't even told you about this month's promotion yet. I've been a very bad blogger indeed! For this month only, if you purchase a Stampin' Up! "Card Elements" kit, you can purchase the co-ordinating stamp set for 20% off (just $19.96). The kits are $30.95, and contain everything you need to make at least 12 cards. They would make a great Christmas present for someone that you want to get addicted to...oops I mean introduce to stamping.
PLUS, as a little bonus from me and to celebrate World Cardmaking Day, I will mail you a handstamped card if you take up this offer!

You can see the kits pictured on pages 140-141 of the catalogue. I must say I love the 'Wow Flowers' stamp set. It works so well with the circle and Word Window punches!

Project by Mail

I'm very excited to be offering (by popular demand!) my very first Project by Mail.

You can purchase the kit and full instructions to make this very cute Chocolate Wallet.
It's decorated with 'Ski Slope' Christmas papers, and will hold 8 mini chocolates, so it makes a perfect little gift.

Your Kit will include full instructions, plus all of the cardstock and patterned paper to make this project and wrap the chocolates, all pre-cut and pre-scored for you, plus punched shapes and ribbon (patterned paper may vary from that pictured).

All you will need to complete the project is adhesive (Snail and Sticky Strip) and a Horizontal Slot punch, or regular hole punch. The chocolates can be purchased from Aldi stores.

Please note, that due to Stampin' Up! policy, I cannot include stamped images in the kit, but you could substitute any Christmas greeting and image to embellish your wallet. If you need to order any of the products to complete more of this project, just let me know and I can have them delivered straight to your door.

The full Kit and Instructions (including postage) is $10. If you would like to purchase this Project by Mail, just email me with your address and payment method. I accept payment by direct deposit, credit card, or cheque.

OR you may prefer to come along to my Open House THIS Sunday, but please let me know ASAP so I can prepare enough kits!

When: Sunday 25th October
Time: 10am - 4pm (drop in anytime)
Where: 27 Ryan St Dundas Valley
Cost: $10 for one kit and instructions, $5 per kit thereafter (chocolates not included).
Bring: adhesive (you'll need Snail and Sticky Strip)

I can also purchase the chocolates for you for $2 (8 chocolates). Let me know if you would prefer milk or dark chocolate.


Places are limited, and bookings are essential. RSVP with how many you would like to make to mail@marelletaylor.com

Craft Sale Reminder!

....THIS Saturday!

GIANT CRAFT SALE

My team and I are getting together to have our second Giant Craft Sale Day. We have cleaned out our cupboards, and have lots of Craft Goodies that need to find new homes. There are stamps, scrapbooking supplies, ribbons, embellishments, plus handmade cards and gifts too (perfect for Christmas!), and lots lots more!

Everything will be priced to sell, so come along and grab a bargain! We'll also have Lucky Door Prizes to be won.

When: Saturday, 24th October 9am -1pm

Where: The Church Hall (Blacktown East Presbyterian) Cnr Heffron Rd and Gallop Gve, Lalor Park

Please spread the word to anyone who may be interested, and I hope to see you there!

Catching Up!

Have you missed me?? We had a lovely time camping. The weather was kind to us, and it rained on our journey there, and our journey home, but stayed fine the whole time we were there. It was freezing though, and both kids came home with colds, which they were kind enough to share with me! I think I had a double dose... I'm feeling a lot better now but my voice has still not completely returned. Hubby has been interstate too, so I've been soldiering on without him to bring me cups of tea!

He's back now and we all went to see "Up" yesterday (the latest animated Pixar movie). I highly recommend it. Maybe I was feeling more fragile than normal (or probably I'm just a sap), but I had tears in my eyes several times. It's really, really sweet (and I think the kids enjoyed it too LOL).

In between all that, I managed to get all my November classes designed and October classes prepped, but I'm so behind on here that I haven't even shown you September's designs!
This was one of the Stamp-a-Stack designs. I think these were some of my favourite cards that we've made this year. The colours are very 'me', and they were very simple to make too:



I love, love, love the Bella Bleu Paper. To add some depth and definition to the main images, I inked them in Sahara Sand, and then sponged some Not Quite Navy and Close to Cocoa ink on the stamp before stamping it on Very Vanilla cardstock. I also sponged Sahara Sand ink around the edges. Both of the stamp sets are Level 1 Hostess sets, which means you can't buy them, but you can earn them for free. Email me if you want to know how!

I've had a ton of requests from people wanting to do the Chocolate Wallet as a Project by Mail. I've never offered one before, but I'm pleased to say that this will be my first! Stay tuned for details over the next day or so!

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Best Yet (Hostess), Organic Grace (Hostess)
ink: Sahara Sand, Not Quite Navy, Close to Cocoa
card: Kraft, Very Vanilla, Not Quite Navy
other: Kraft Taffeta ribbon, sponge dauber, Eyelet Border Punch, Scallop Edge Punch, Bella Bleu DSP

Get Ready for Christmas!

This month we celebrate World Cardmaking Day. I'm having a "Get Ready for Christmas" Open House at my place in a couple of weeks. I'm going to be making lots of these Chocolate Wallets for my friends, family, kid's teachers, neighbours, etc, and I'd love to have you come along and make some with me!

It's decorated with 'Ski Slope' Christmas papers, and contains 8 mini chocolates, so it makes a perfect little gift. You can come and make one, or purchase extra kits and make a whole batch!

When: Sunday 25th October
Time: 10am - 4pm (drop in anytime)
Where: 27 Ryan St Dundas Valley
Cost: $10 for one kit and instructions, $5 per kit thereafter (chocolates not included).

Bring: adhesive (you'll need Snail and Sticky Strip)

I can also purchase the chocolates for you for $2 (8 chocolates). Let me know if you would prefer milk or dark chocolate.

Places are limited, and bookings are essential. RSVP by 18 October with how many you would like to make to mail@marelletaylor.com

Thanks to Nikki Stalker for sharing this fabulous idea, modeled on one she got from a Secret Sister. You can see her original here.
Edited to Add: I have since found out that the original idea was from the very lovely and talented Kim Gavarra. I hope you don't mind me borrowing your clever idea, Kim!

It's NSW School Holidays here, and we're off camping for a few days of much needed R&R. It will be so nice to get away. We're staying with 2 other families, and we can even take Coco with us!

Think Pink!

I've always said that October is a great month to join Stampin' Up! (read my reasons HERE).

But this year it's better than ever. Stampin' Up! have just announced their Breast Cancer Awareness Promotion:
For over 20 years, Stampin' Up! has helped women make a difference in the lives of others by simply doing what they love to do--sharing creativity.
Now you too can become a Stampin' Up! demonstrator and make a difference! For every person who joins the Stampin' Up! family between 1 October and 31 December 2009, Stampin' Up! will donate $5 to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Plus, until 31 December 2009, you'll receive a FREE pack of Raspberry Tart Designer Series paper and a Pretty in Pink Classic Stampin' Pad to help you get started!

There's never been a better reason to join!

Contact me if you'd like me to mail you an Information pack about joining Stampin' Up!

Last chance Ribbon Bundle!

with one day left of the promotion, Breaking News is that Stampin' Up! have run out of ribbon!

...but because they are such a fabulous company, you can still get ribbon for free.

With every $100 order placed TODAY ONLY you will receive a spool of Chocolate Chip 1" (2.5 cm) double-stitched grosgrain ribbon (item 111849; p. 150) and a spool of Rose Red 1" (2.5 cm) double-stitched grosgrain ribbon (item 111846; p. 150).

You can see the gorgeous Rose Red Ribbon on this Dahlia Fold card:

Contact me if you 'need' some goodies so you can get your free ribbon!

Spotlight on Christmas

Just a quick one from me today...I have the dreaded lurgy, and I think I need to be horizontal!
Thanks to everyone who has taken part in my Special Offer. It's a lovely feeling to be helping people make their Christmas cards, and hopefully it will make the Silly Season a little less stressful for you all!
The offer ends TOMORROW, so contact me if you want to take part.
We used 'Spotlight on Christmas' at a Stamp-a-Stack a couple of months ago, and these are the designs we made:

I hope that gives you some more ideas of how versatile this set is!

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Spotlight on Christmas, Season of Joy
ink: Riding Hood Red, Chocolate Chip
card: Riding Hood Red, Chocolate Chip, Kiwi Kiss
other: Large Star punch, Scallop Circle Punch, 5-petal flower punch, 1 3/8" circle punch, 1 1/4" circle punch, mat pack, white gel pen, Chocolate Grosgrain ribbon, White Grosgrain ribbon, dimensionals

A Special Offer - 3 Days Only!

Sometimes my best ideas come from my customers. Thanks Louise for this one! Louise liked this card so much that she wants to use it to make her Christmas cards, so she emailed me to ask me to put a bundle together with everything she needs. A little lightbulb went on for me, and I thought there might be others in the same situation, who want to make some quick and easy Christmas cards, but don't know where to start.

So this is what you can make:

And this is what you get in my Special Offer Bundle, which is enough to make 48 cards (all you need to add is some white cardstock and a Christmas greeting from your own supplies). I've also used the Word Window punch (because I'm addicted to punches) but you could just stamp straight onto the cardstock.

Spotlight on Christmas Stamp set ($39.95)
Large Star Punch ($30.95)
1 Classic Inkpad (colour of your choice) ($11.95)
Co-ordinating A4 cardstock (single colour of your choice) ($10.50)
1 pack Designer Series paper of your choice ($16.95)

If you get your order to me by September 30, you will also qualify for a free Ribbon Bundle!

The total value is $116.25 (incl s&h), but for 3 days only I am offering it for just $100, which includes shipping and handling, delivered straight to your door. You must get your order to me by Wednesday September 30. You can make 48 Christmas cards from this bundle, or substitute different colours and papers, and make baby cards, invitations, birthday cards....

These are the images in the Spotlight on Christmas Stamp set. They all co-ordinate with Stampin' Up! Punches (don't you love that!) so they make quick and easy cards and gift tags, not just for Christmas, but all year long:
Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Spotlight on Christmas, Short and Sweet
ink: Real Red
card: Real Red, Whisper White
other: Large Stare Punch, Word Window Punch, Ski Slope DSP, Certainly Celery Polytwill (ribbon bundle)

Joining the Baby Bandwagon

Did that get your attention?? No, I'm not pregnant...as if!! That would be a minor miracle, and a catastrophic failure of modern surgical techniques LOL...but it seems that babies are popping out all over the place. I know so many people who have just announced that they are pregnant/have just given birth/or are about to give birth any second. It seems that I'm not alone... Sarah and Teneale, two of my favourite cardmakers in the country are also making lots of baby cards. Check out their blogs for their gorgeous creations! They are well worth a look.

We had a team meeting on Monday, and we all made a Chrissy card using the Spotlight on Christmas set. I used the fabulous FREE ribbon on this card, and a bit of a different Christmas colour combo:

and then to show just how versatile this set is, and also because I needed to make a few baby cards, and I wanted to use some of the yummy FREE So Saffron ribbon, I came up with this one:

I made a Pink Pirouette version too, which has been sent off already. I made the star all glittery with 2-way glue and dazzling Diamonds, and then added a layer of Crystal Effects, which gives it a glossy, glittery effect. Using patterned paper made this card super quick and easy.
I'm on a "perfect knot" tying mission this month...if you come along to my classes during October I will show you how to tie a perfect, flat knot (whether you like it or not LOL)

Don't forget: Only a few days left to get your FREE ribbon! Email me with an order for $100, and you'll receive a ribbon bundle absolutely free.





Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Spotlight on Christmas, Short and Sweet
ink: (card 1)Riding Hood Red, Versamark, Basic Grey
ink: (card 2): Baja Breeze
card: (card 1): Riding Hood Red, Whisper White, Basic Grey, Baja Breeze
card: (card 2): Baja Breeze, Whisper White, Baja Breeze Patterns DSP, Candy Lane DSP
other: (card 1): Large Star Punch, Word Window Punch, Mat pack, Crimper, White gel pen, Certainly Celery Polytwill ribbon, Rhinestone brad
other (card 2): Large Star Punch, Word Window Punch,Crystal effects, Latte Buttons, So Saffron Grosgrain Ribbon

More Rub-Ons

This was the other card we made in my Rub-Ons class this month. There's very little stamping on this card - just the branch (from Cheep Talk) and the words "for you" (from Basic Phrases). The rest is all Rub-Ons. Yes, you can use rub-ons on ribbon, and don't they look fabulous on a clear button? I put some "Walk in the Park" paper behind the clear button. These buttons are so handy to have in your stash, because you can make them co-ordinate with anything.

Don't forget...Only a week left to get your FREE Ribbon Bundle! Read about how you can get yours HERE. Don't miss out!


Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Cheep Talk, Basic Phrases
ink: Basic Grey, Kiwi Kiss
card: Cameo Coral, Pink pirouette, Whisper White
other: Clear button, Walk in the Park DSP, Summer Love Rub-Ons, 1" Circle Punch, Scallop Sqaure Punch, Corner Rounder Punch, Baja Breeze double-Stitched Ribbon

Dust!

Sydney is a very eerie place today. After hearing gusty winds all night, I woke up to a strange orange glow, and walked outside to find everything covered in a layer of brownish-red dust. I have never seen anything like it.

The air is finally starting to clear now, but I feel like taking to the streets with a giant vacuum cleaner to suck up all the dirt that is still blowing around. I have been rinsing my mouth out all day too, to get the gritty feeling out of my mouth.

It's on again!!

GIANT CRAFT SALE

My team and I are getting together to have our second Giant Craft Sale Day. We have cleaned out our cupboards, and have lots of Craft Goodies that need to find new homes. There are stamps (both Stampin' Up! and other), scrapbooking supplies, ribbons, embellishments, plus handmade cards and gifts too (perfect for Christmas!), and lots lots more!

Everything will be priced to sell, so come along and grab a bargain! We'll also have Lucky Door Prizes to be won.

When: Saturday, 24th October 9am -1pm

Where: The Church Hall (Blacktown East Presbyterian) Cnr Heffron Rd and Gallop Gve, Lalor Park

Please spread the word to anyone who may be interested, and I hope to see you there!

Challenge #5 - Look Mum, No Stamps!

Can you believe that there is absolutely no stamping on this card? Not one little bit. It is actually one of the designs in my Rub-Ons Technique classes this month. It is difficult to tell in the photo, but the Baja Breeze piece has an acetate window behind it, and the stem and small butterfly are behind the window, and the grey outline and large butterfly are on top of the acetate. That's one of the great things about Rub-Ons...they can go anywhere! I made the window using the 1 3/8" Square punch, punched 4 times to make a rectangle. It's much easier than using a craft knife! I secured the acetate (just an overhead transparency sheet) using Snail adhesive.
The leafy border, and the sentiment are all Rub-Ons too. They come from the Summer Love Rub-Ons pack in the Mini.
I made the slightly rectangular Wide Oval by feeding a strip of cardstock slightly narrower than the punch into it (3.1cm)
So, that brings me to Challenge #5, a Stampless Challenge! Make a card that features no stamping whatsoever. You can use Designer Papers, Rub-Ons, embellishments galore, but No Stamps! *gasp*
I'm looking forward to seeing how creative you can be!

Enter a link to your creation via Mr Linky (please link directly to individual blog posts), and leave a comment on this post too.


You have until October 31 to enter, and anyone from Australia/NZ can enter. The winner will receive a sheet of Bright Delights Rub-Ons!

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: none!
ink: none!
card: Baja Breeze, Whisper White
other:Summer Love Rub-Ons, Scallop Oval punch, Wide Oval punch 1 3/8" Square Punch, Kiwi Kiss Satin ribbon, Dimensionals, Acetate (non SU!)

Challenge #4 Winner!

I had such a tough time choosing this month's winner. You are all sooo clever! Here's a slideshow of them all...can you see why I had such difficulty choosing just one??

But I just couldn't go past this card by Dione Bird:

She used the layout from page 3 of the Mini, and the colours of Ski Slope papers, to make a gorgeous card using the "Priceless" stamp set. I think it's just stunning.
Congrats Dione! Just email me with your address details, and I'll pop a little bundle of goodies in the mail for you.
I'll be posting a new challenge for you all very very soon!

2 more entries!

I just wanted to show you 2 last entries that I had to my Challenge. These gorgeous creations are by Donella Henderson in Queensland.

This box inspired by the one on page 5 of the Mini, using a different stamp set:This layout inspired from page 11 of the Mini, using the new 'Great Friend' stamp set:Thanks Donella, they are both gorgeous!

It's been so much fun seeing what everyone has come up with...it's going to be so hard to pick a winner!

Another Guest Blogger!

There is one last day to enter my Challenge!
You have until tomorrow night to enter, and I'll announce the winner on Wednesday morning.
This gorgeous entry is by Cheryl:


She's used the Great Friend stamp set, and Walk in the Park papers. I love the way she's used a small oval with the Scallop oval, and placed it off-centre with a corduroy button.
Absolutely stunning card, Cheryl!

Elite Challenges

I had the loveliest day yesterday, catching up on some Elite Challenges from August, and doing the September ones too. I also used some Mojo Monday sketches again...they really take so much of the brainwork out of it! Here are some snapshots of my efforts (you'll need to click on the pictures to be taken to the full card)

This one was August's Sketch Challenge from page 22 of the Spring Mini.

This one was a Colour Challenge, and I've used a Level 1 Hostess set that had yet to see ink! I've also used Mojo Monday Sketch #79

For this Stamp Set Challenge we had to use my favourite stamp set from the Spring Mini "Great Friend". I've done this in Baja Breeze so much, and I felt like doing something a bit different with it, so I paired it with the gorgeous Haiku DSP, and Emboss-Resist brayering.

This one was September's Sketch Challenge from page 11 of the Spring Mini.

This one was a Colour Challenge, and I've used the very cute Build-a-roo set...and another Mojo Monday Sketch - #76

For this Stamp Set Challenge we had to use another set from the Mini "Soft Summer". I've done this in pink tones, and it looks gorgeous, and I thought I'd see how it looks in blues (I like it even better!). I've used the watercolour spritzing technique, and yet another Mojo Monday sketch.

So, what do you think? I'd love to know which one is your favourite!

Well, I've had my day of fun. I'd love to do it all again today, but the cupboards are bare, and I don't think my family will be too happy with "leftover surprise" for dinner again! LOL

Great Friend Tri-Shutter

There have been lots of these Tri-shutter cards on various blogs and websites lately, so I thought it would make the perfect second card for my Fancy Folds class. This is what the card looks like closed: And when you open it up, Voila!

The Urban Garden papers are so gorgeous, I have used them and used them and used them. Sometimes I have to *force* myself to use something different! Can you believe this card only uses a 3.5cm strip from 2 sheets of the paper. So even you paper-hoarders (and I know you're out there!) can make one of these and it will barely make a dent in your stash.

TIP: I used Confetti White cardstock for my card base, as it's a bit stronger and sturdier than the Whisper White. But I stamped my cut-out butterflies on Whisper White, as you just can't beat it for a crisp stamped image.

Here are some basic instructions with measurements that I worked out to suit Aussie cardstock and envelopes:
1. Cut an A4 piece of cardstock to 27 x 14.8cm
2. Turn to landscape orientation and score at 4.5cm, 9cm, 18cm and 22.5cm
3. Put the piece of cardstock portrait orientation in a trimmer. Cut a slit 4cm in, from 4.5 to 22.5 cm. Do the same on the opposite side
4. Fold along score lines accordion style, making sure the top and bottom narrow sections are folded in the same direction, while the middle wider section is folded in the opposite direction

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Great Friend
ink: Baja Breeze, Basic Grey, Kiwi Kiss
card: Confetti White, Whisper White, Basic Grey
other: Baja Breeze striped grosgrain ribbon, Kiwi Kiss Corduroy button, Urban Garden DSP

Petal Pizzaz Sidestep

My August Technique class was "Fancy Folds". This was the Sidestep card we made. LOTS of cutting out on this one, but apart from that it's an easy card to put together. There are probably visual instructions somewhere, but here's a quick description of the measurements I used for mine:
1. Put an A5 piece of cardstock portrait orientation in a trimmer. Cut a slit 5cm in, from 2.5 to 16cm
2. Turn to landscape orientation and score at 5cm, 10cm, 13cm, 16cm and 18.5cm, stopping each time at the cut slit.
3. Fold along score lines accordion style, starting and finishing with a mountain fold.

We also made a Tri-Shutter card, which I'll show you tomorrow!

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Petal Pizzaz, Echoes of Kindness, Fresh Cuts
ink: Kiwi Kiss, Riding Hood Red, Tangerine Tango
card: So Saffron, Whisper White
other: Word Window, Riding Hood Red Taffeta Ribbon, Bone Folder, 1/2" Circle Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, dimensionals

Catching Up!

Since Noosa, I feel like I have been treading water...keeping my head above (but only just!), and not moving forward at all. So the last 2 days have seen me at my stamp desk, getting next month's class designs done. That's all done now, and tomorrow I'm hoping to squeeze in a little stamping just for me...my sanity needs it!

As a result, the blog has taken a back seat, and now I have some catching up to do here (never mind the housework, which has taken a back-back seat and is just going to have to stay there LOL)

Thankfully there are other bloggers who have been updating!
Check out Kerry's blog for some Anniversary Blog Candy.
Ruth has been published for the first time, so pop over and say Congrats to her.
In fact, all the blogs in my sidebar are very inspiring, and well worth a visit.

I'm happy to say I've had lots more entries in my August Challenge (feeling a lot more popular now! LOL)
Here's a gorgeous one from Zoe, who doesn't have a blog:

The colours haven't shown up completely true to life. It is Baja Breeze, Kraft and Chocolate Chip. She took inspiration from Parisian Breeze paper on page 9 and the design from page 22.

Punchies for Charity

Fellow Demo, and general-all-round-lovely-person Jayne Mercer is collecting punched out shapes for Westmead Children's Hospital. Read all about how you can help HERE

Guest Blogger

I've had a few more entries to my August Challenge trickling in (thank goodness! I was feeling quite unpopular for a while there! ;o)

I received a gorgeous entry from Karyn, in Kersbrook SA who doesn't have a blog:


It was inspired by the colours and layout on page 4.
Isn't it gorgeous?
You have until September 15 to take part. The Challenge is open to anyone in Australia OR New Zealand

Sense of Time Stamp-a-Stack

I thought a masculine design would be a good idea for my August Stamp-a-Stacks, since Father's Day is just around the corner. I couldn't go past the Sense of Time set in the Spring Mini. It's not my usual style, but I was quite happy with how these came out, and the set is soooo easy to use. You really can't go wrong. I'm thinking it would make lovely heritage-style scrapbook pages too....

I also focused on some different ways to use Jumbo eyelets in this class. The hardware feel of the eyelets make them a great masculine embellishment (and the Crop-a-dile makes easy work of setting them!). I also used some Chocolate Chip grosgrain ribbon, and some Linen thread. Tearing and sponging adds interest and texture to these fairly simple designs.

I have used some slightly neglected colours on these cards too - Mellow Moss and Bordering Blue. They both have a touch of grey in them, which makes them perfect for blokes :o)

So if you haven't made your Father's Day cards yet, whip out a collage style stamp set and some hardware, and you'll have them done in a jiffy.

Materials (all Stampin' Up!)
stamps: Sense of Time, On Your Birthday, Occasional Greetings
ink: Close to Cocoa, Bordering Blue, Mellow Moss
card: Bordering Blue, Mellow Moss, Naturals Ivory, Kraft
other: Brass Jumbo Eyelets, Linen Thread, 3/4" circle punch, 1" circle punch, Chocolate Chip Wide grosgrain, ribbon, Crop-a-Dile, sponge daubers, tag punch, Chocolate Chip marker