Stamps, Ink & Paper

Stampin' Up! Sketch Challenge SIPSC031

I'm not sure why, but if I have a sketch to get me started, it jump starts my my card making. 

I have a simple sketch challenge for you this weekend! 

Basically it's a single layer card with a one layer focal point and a ribbon or similar embellishment, plus, a little something in the bling line to make it pop!

You can refer back to an earlier post about the 'Steps to making a great card' if you want some basic advice on getting started when creating from a sketch.

By the way - it's my birthday on Tuesday! 

When you visit my blog the week of my birthday and leave a comment I'll send you the link to an exclusive video tutorial. 

It's my birthday gift for you!

 Enjoy!

Maureen

Stampin' Up! Snow Globe Shaker Card

 

Have a peek at my Snow Glode shaker card I created for my sketch challenge SIPSC030

Stamps sets I would recommend

Sweet Snowglobe

Holiday Lineup 111648

Greeting Card Kids 119887W 120633C

Tags til Christmas 120847W 121169C

Winter Post 111780W  It's on sale right now!  ONLY $16.48

Paper

Holly Berry Bouquet Designer Series Paper 124004

Real Red, Wild Wasabi & Vanilla Card Stock

3/8" Velvet Stiched Ribbon 125637

1/8" Red Taffeta Ribbon 119251

Treat Cups 116802

Stampin' Up! Sale SAVE 20% - 60% on select items

Download Online Extravaganza flyer CA

You can order online on my Stampin' Up! website or call me to place your order.

1-866-977-8226

locally

519-627-8226

Sketch Challenge SIPSC030

I'm really liking the square cards lately.  Have you haven't made one this size lately - give it a try.

Here's my sketch.  It's inspired by a card I saw in a magazine a while back.  I like the single focal point. 

Steps to Making a Great Card

1. *Choose a stamp as your  focal point. It could be an image or a greeting.
2. Choose a Designer Series Paper you would like to work with.
3. Gather the coordinating Stampin' Up! colours of card stock to match your choice.  I almost always consult Stampin' Up!'s Color Coach
4. Choose any width ribbon that also coordinates.
5. Decide which card stock will be the card base.
6. Mix up your colours as you choose which layer will go where.
7. Decide if any will be dry embossed.
8. Add in other embellishments such as buttons or brads.
9. Finish is off with a little glitter or Smooch Spritz spray.
10. Send you card to someone, stamped with love!
11. *Choose a stamp as your  focal point. It could be an image or a greeting
12. Sometimes I choose the stamp first and sometimes I choose it last. 

Cut your card stock to 5-1/4" x 10-1/2" scored at 5-1/4"

Then cut coordinating cardstock or designer series papers in the following sizes.

4-3/4" x 4-3/4"

4" x 4"

3-3/4" x 3-3/4"

2pcs. 3-1/2" x 1-1/2"

3' x 1" 

plus circles (or could be squares etc)

Have fun with it!

Maureen 

Stampin' Up! 'Greeting Card Kids' Christmas Card

Here is a picture that was my colour inspiration to wean me away from the "pink kick" I've been on lately.  You can see I'm weaning myself away slowly. 

 

And here's my card.  It`s hard to see in the photo but I ran the white card stock through the Big Shot with the Perfect Details Texture Plate and then spritzed with Vanilla Smooch Spray. The new Mica Flakes add snow to the Treat Cup!

 Greeting Card Kids has been a favourite stamp set of mine. 

It's available in both wood and clear mount.  It's very sweet and nostaligic.

Stampin' Up! Delicate Doilies Christmas Card

I'm happy to share my Stampin' Up! project with you!  I hope you'll feel inspired!

Here's my card from the weekend sketch challenge. 

Gosh - I hope you like pink, because I did it again!  I really don't start out knowing it's going to end up being pink.  This is my thrid pink card in a row!  Maybe it's the Delicate Doilies Stamp Set that I can't get enough of or maybe it's the Flirtatious Specialty paper that keeps me coming back.  Anyway - you can imagine it in another colour scheme or better yet - try it yourself!  

I have all the links ready for you to make your shopping easy!

I L-O-V-E  the stacked button!  It really makes the card POP!  It might look a little 'random' - this photo doesn't do it justice. 

It looks really good in real life!  Just a nice little added pop of colour!

Flirtatious Delicate Doilies Christmas Card

tamps:

Delicate Doilies 122590W, 122592C

Beautiful Season 122680W, 122682C, digital image

Ink:

Melon Mambo 115656, Pretty in Pink 101301

Paper:

Flirtatious Specialty 122360, Whisper White 100730, Pretty in Pink 100459,

Also:

Scallop Trim Border Punch 118402, Scallop Trim Corner Punch 118072, Spice Cake Designer Buttons 124113, Designer Buttons Subltes Collection 119745,  3/16" Corner Round Punch 119871, Snowflake Punch 119852, Snow Burst Embossing Folder 124096

 

Sketch Challenge! 110211

Take out your Designer Series Paper and get ready to layer, layer, layer!

Let the Designer Paper direct your card stock colour choices.  Add a ribbon and a bold embellishment too!

Make it Stampin' Up! fabulous and then send me a picture.

Here' the beauty of the sketch - - - it can be a card or a scrapbook page!

Happy Stamping!

Maureen

 

Stampin' Up! Christmas Card using 'Christmas Lodge'

Have you started your Christmas cards yet? 

Remember that when you make a minimum $50. purchase you collect points toward earning a FREE stamp set.  It's all part of my STAMPER'S INCENTIVE PROGRAM!

I've been in a pink mood lately!  Here's an easy Christmas card using Christmas Lodge!

(a couple more images below)

Stamps, Ink and Paper I used:

Stamps:

Christmas Lodge 123767W 123769C 

Four the Holidays 116921

Ink:

Craft Stampin' Spots Soft Subtles 119716

Versamark 102283

Paper:

Silver Glimmer Paper 124005

Pewter Embossing Powder 124114

Pretty in Pink Card Stock 100459

 Vellum card stock 101856

Accessories:

Seam Binding, Rose Red 121884

Mini Brads 122941

Rhinestones 119246

Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder 120175

Stampin' Up! Comfort & Joy Christmas Card

Here's the result from my sketch challenge 100411 earlier this week.  I used Comfort & Joy stamp set from the Holiday Mini.  #124175W or #120753.  If you played along, you'll remember that the sketch looked rather blah - but I do like the card I came up with!

I hope you like it! 

If you're placing an online order this month - I'll send this card to you (un-signed :o) so you can use it yourself!

Maureen

 

DIY CRAFTS VIDEO - Coasters to Match any Decor

 

Today was 'take your kid to work day'.  My daughter Shannon (grade 9) spent the day with me as a Mom-preneur.  Even though she didn't have to go to school or 'go out' to go to work, she still had to get up early and be ready for the work day by 9:00 a.m.  She was a real trouper!  She worked during her lunch break and by the end of the day had created an AWESOME VIDEO for us!  She added lots of cute things I think you'll enjoy.  Make sure your volume is turned on!

Stampin' Up! Sketch Challenge 100411

Hi Stampers! 

I'm way behind in my blog posting so I'm posting my sketch challenge early this week. I know it looks like a really basic card but I was thinking about Christmas cards and if you're planning on making a bunch - you don't want them to be too difficult.  I know it looks really blah here but imagine how excited you'll be when it comes to life before your eyes as you bring in the wonderful Stampin' Up! card stock colours!  Check back in a couple of days to see what I come up with.

Happy Stamping!

Maureen

Delicate Doilies Christmas Card

Did you try my weekend challenge? #100311. Here's what I came up with!

It's a fairly quick card with some fun elements to jazz it up!

What I used:

Stamps

Delicate Doillies 122592C  122590W

Curly Cute 120510C 117014W

Ink

Marina Mist 119668

Cherry Cobbler 119669  

Paper

Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper 124002

Marina Mist Card Stock 119682

Cherry Cobbler Cardstock 119685

Whisper White Card Stock 100730

Vellum Cardstock 101856

The Extras 

Snow Burst Embossing Folder

Northern Frost Sizzlet Decorative Strip 120901

Lace Ribbon Border Punch 122362

Glimmer Brads (Soft Subtles) 121004

Basic Rhinestones 119246

I hope you like it!  Have fun stamping!

Maureen

 

Stampin' Up! Sketch Challenge 100311

Looking for a little inspiration this weekend?  I always play along and create something based on the sketch too.  It's amazing how easy it is - the sketch is like a head start!  This week you can easily make it into a 5-1/4" x 5-1/4" card or a square scrapbook page - you choose!  Give it a try!

Enjoy the weekend and take some time to stamp.  It makes the heart happy!

Maureen

Lighthearted Card Set

Happy Friday!

Grab a handful of Stampin' Up! markers, some Textured white cardstock and the Lighthearted stamp set 120274W or 121157C and you're all set to make a set of quick cards!  I thought I might add some embellishments to each card but then I decided that I really liked the simplicity of them the way they are.  Each card is 3" x 3".

Thanks for visiting. 

Stop by tomorrow for my weekend sketch challenge.

 

Maureen

It's a BIG Deal! Get a BIG SHOT with your Starter kit only in October!

This offer is too good to stay quiet about!  If you've ever thought of joining Stampin' Up! this is the time to join. I've never seen an Starter Kit Bonus like this! 

It's easy to join right now!  You can join online on my website.  My special password is 'teamcananda'.  Joining Stampin' Up! is one of the best decisions I ever made.  I've enjoyed nearly 10 years as a demonstrator and I still love it!  And you really can't go wrong.  The Stater kit is a great value with supplies you'll always use.  You can even customize your kit if you like!  You really have nothing to lose.  Check out all the details and then call me.  1-866-977-8226.  I can guide you through the process.  I look forward to you becoming part of the Stampin' Up! family and a member of my team!

There are so many benefits of being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, including

• A 20 percent product discount!
• A free monthly issue of Stampin' Up!'s demonstrator-only magazine, Stampin' Success!
• Sneak peeks at brand-new products!
• Invitations to exclusive Stampin' Up! events!
• Regular get-togethers to stamp!
• Free access to an online community of 30,000+ crafters/stampers and creative artists, as well as 160,000+ project samples!
• Plus, access to an exclusive video and training for your new Big Shot!

Don't miss this BIG deal!

Maureen

 

"Raining Flowers" Two Step Stamping

True confession time.  The first tme I saw this stamp set, (promise you won't tell Shelli....), I didn't really like it.  I know,  tsk, tsk!  But then, I started seeing a few samples in the catalogue and it wasn't long before I changed my mind!!  Today I needed a birthday card and I had to work on the weekend sketch challenge so....  here's what I came up with.  By the time I finished the card - I was totally in love with this set!  It seems like an unlikely colour combination but I like it a lot!

I used almost all of the images in this stamp set!  WOW!  It's a two-step stamping method a.k.a make me look like a super stamper in just a few easy steps!  Ya gotta love that!

Can you see how that Daffodl Delight Flower pops right off the card?  It's awesome!  Scroll to the bottom for a picture of the inside.

Stamps:

Raining Flowers 122765W, 122767C 

Bring on the Cake 121899W, 121958C I use this set all the time!

Ink:

Cherry Cobbler Marker 119681

Wild Wasabi Marker 105106

So Saffron Marker 105114

Paper:

Baja Breeze Textured Card Stock 121075 for Assorted 4-1/4"x 4-1/4"

Cherry Cobbler Cardstock 105123 4-1/4" x 1-1/2" ripped lengthwise

Whisper White Card Stock 100730 4-1/4" x 2-1/4"

 Accessories:

Lots of Tags Sizzlet Die (Set of 4) 114508

So Saffron Taffeta Ribbon 122982

Designer Buttons Soft Subtles Collection 119745

3/16" Corner Punch 119871

Dazzling Details 124117

It might be hard to see the sparkle on my photo of the little flower inside the card.  I used Dazzling Details!  It adds a nice little precise touch of glitter. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I hope you have a super day and find some time to stamp!!  It makes the heart happy!

Maureen

Sketch Challenge 100211

You're probably busy with Thanksgiving preparations.  I did lots of work ahead of time so I can enjoy my time at the cottage this weekend.  My family will gather tomorrow for an early celebration.  I'm almost counting down the hours until we get to eat!

Here's a sketch to keep you busy if you find yourself with a few extra minutes over the weekend. I'll post my rendition early next week!  Enjoy!  Happy Thanksgiving!

 Thanks for stopping by!

Maureen

 

 

Gently Falling Thank You Card

 
Today I am busy baking pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving.  My daughter Meghan will be home from Ottawa for the weekend!  I'm planning a big meal on Saturday at the cottage and then we go to my sister's the next day for a family gathering.

Below is a card that was left for me at the cottage by Cindy P and her team of demonstrators who were there for a retreat weekend recently.  At first I though it was made on confetti card stock - but on closer inspection it's Vanilla card stock - it's spritzed!  Such a nice finish.  Very well done!

The stamp set is Falling Leaves, sponged in two colours.  It look slike More Mustard and Cherry Cobbler.  Also note the border detail.  Thanks ladies!

 Can you guess how she achieved the sponged look around the leaf?....Classic ink sponged on a clear block would be my bet!  It's a great card!

Enjoy your day!

Maureen
 

 

Out on a Limb Stamp Set - Pick Your Poison Halloween card

 
This is the card I came up with in response to the weekend sketch challenge!  I used Out on a Limb stamp set and Wicked Cool stamp set.  The designer paper is Pick Your Poison.

It's a gate fold card. The card stock measures 5-1/2" x 9-3/8".  Scored at 2" from one end and 3-3/8" from the other.  That leaves you 4-1/4 wide X 5-1/2" high once its folded.

The Stamps, Ink and Paper I used:

Out on a Limb Stamp Set 123822W, 123824C, Wicked Cool Stamp Set 118738W, 120600C

StazonBlack Ink 101406, Pumpkin Pie marker 105115, Wild Wasabi Marker 120975

So Saffron Marker 105114, More Mustard Marker 100076, Early Espresso Marker 119680

Pick Your Poison Designer Series Paper 124001, Basic Black card stock

Spider Web Embossing folder 120889, 1-3/4" Scallop Circle Punch 119854, 2-3/8" Scallop Circle Punch 118874

I hope you'll feel inspired to stampsomething today!  Enjoy!

Maureen

Mini Album Big Shot Project

This is such a cute project!  With a few supplies and a little imagination you can create these awesome little albums, great to keep or give way!  

You can stick with the 12 months of cuteness theme if you have a baby in your life or any of these themes would be terrific too!

pregnancy . vacation . grandchildren . special birthday . anniversary . Christmas . wedding

This project uses the Two Tags Big Shot Die and Timeless Type Junior Alphabet

So gather up some pictures - all with the same theme and you'll have one awesome little album!

Have a great day - thanks for stopping by!

Maureen

 

 

Looking for Quick Handmade Cards?

 

  
 
If you're looking for a way to make some super quick cards - then just look a little further  - in my online store that is!

During the month of October, you can order a free co-ordinating stamp set along with your purchase of 2 Simply Sent Card Kits. 

There's been so much news to share today!  Don't forget to try my Sketch Challenge!

I hope you've enjoyed World Card Making Day 2011 and thanks for visiting my blog, I appreciate it!

I'll see you on Monday,

Maureen

 

Triple Layer Punch Video

You're going to love how these punches work!  They offer so much versatility!  Here is a video from Stampin' Up!'s home office to demonstrate them for you!  Both the Doily Triple Layer Punch #122465 and the Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch #122464 are featured on a great little scrapbook page you can copy!  Each punch is $30.95.  It's a little more than the typical punch but considering each punch creates three different things - it makes it a great value! 

Clearance Rack - Stampin' Up! sale items! Check it out for some new additions!

Check it out!  There are some new holiday additions to the Clearance Rack.

Shop online NOW for best selection!  Remember, your online order of $50 before shipping and taxes earns you an 'X' on your Stamper's Incentive Program Card Download SIP Card Sept 2011

Go to the clearance rack now!

FREE BIG SHOT from Stampin' Up!

WOW!  Oh WOW!  Join our Stampin Up! family this month and you receive the BIG SHOT free!  Whoo Hoo!  Already have the Big Shot?  No problem - you can trade it for a $125. shopping spree instead!

This is an amazing offer!!!

Click on Join My Team to take you to the online ordering right now.

Please call me if you need some help 1-866-977-8226

Things to have on hand:

 

 

• your social insurance number
• your credit card number
• the Starter Kit order form Download Starter Kit Forms Oct 2011.  It's best to make any changes to the kit on paper before you go to the online ordering.
• my special password.  teamcanada

*About one hour after joining you will have access to the demonstrator side of the Stampin' Up! website and be able to order your free Big Shot or spend the $125 however you like!

You'll also have access to over 190,000 pieces of stamp art in our private "Stampin' Connection" - it's available only to demonstrators!

It's hard to resist an order like this!  I hope you'll decide to join me!

Maureen

 

 

Sketch Challenge #100111

It's world card making day and I have a new challenge for you!!

See what you can create with this card sketch!!  Make it a card or turn it into a scrapbook page!  Make it Stampin' Up! exciting and share your creations with me! 

Have some fun with it!

Thanks for stopping by!

Maureen

 

 

Earn FREE Stamps

HAPPY WORLD CARD MAKING DAY!   Today I have a BIG announcement for you!

You know how much I appreciate your business and your loyalty.  Now I'm ready to reward you with FREE STAMPS for choosing me as your preferred Stampin' Up! Demonstrator!

Introducing my Stamper's Incentive Program!  (I call it SIP for short.  Just like SIP for Stamps, Ink and Paper).  Its free to join and you can begin  when you make your first $50 purchase AND it's retroactive to September 1, 2011.

Here's how it works:

Each time you make a $50. purchase before shipping and taxes, you will put one X on your Stamper's Incentive Program CARD. Download SIP Card Sept 2011 When you collect 10 X's you will be able to choose any current stamp set for free!  You  only pay the the shipping & taxes and the stamp set is free to you as my 'thank you' for your business!

• It will be your responsibilty to track your purchases and submit your completed card to me.
• Remember that each purchase of $50.or more qualifies.   ($48. doesn't count)
• If you're spending $100. then that counts as 2 X's, $150 counts as 3 X's etc.
• At the $200. level in a single purchase you would receive 4 X's plus Stampin' Up! hostess benefits valued at an additional $35 in immediate free shopping!

Get More information on my new Stamper's Incentive Program. Download Intro to SIP  

And, you don't have to host an in-home workshop to take full advantage of all the benefits Stampin' Up! offers!  Learn more about how YOU can get some FREE shopping from Stampin' Up! today!  Take a look at the table below.  Where is says 'your workshop total' - that can also mean 'your personal purchase'.  Follow the table down to see how much free shopping you could have!

    Print Hostess Table

A Blast from the Past!

So as I've been re-organizing my new stamp room and just look at what I came across!  I became a demonstrator nearly 10 years ago.  I think these scissors were just on their way out then. If you were a paper crafter way back then, do you remember how many pieces of card stock you would cut before getting a really good decorative edge?

 

 

 

 

Well that was then baby!  We've come a long way!  Today's punches make life  SO much easier and although I can still flub something every now and again - it doesn't take me 40 tries to get it right!

And then things just kept getting better when the big shot came along with precision cutting!  My paper crafting heart is grateful.

 

 I hope you  have a happy day stamping and I wish you many decorative edges with ease!

Maureen

 

Quick Card, Easy to Make Many! Includes a Stampin' Up! Video

If you're placing an online order this month - you just might find this card in your mailbox!  It's my 'thank you' to you.

The great thing about a card like this is that it's easy to make multiples and it suits many occasions.   You could just as easily slip in a Happy Birthday or Get Well greeting.

The stamps, ink and paper I used:

Printed Petals 120444, Pretty Postage 123097 stamp sets

Tangerine Tango Classic Ink 111834

Tangerine Tango 111349, Early Espresso 119686 card stock and Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper 124339. 

Also, Tasteful Trim 120893 Big Shot Die, Lots of Tags Sizzlet 114508.

You can barely see it but I finished off the inside with a scallop border too.

I really appreciate your business!  If you're ready to place an order - please visit my website or call me anytime!

Have a super day!!

Maureen

 

Stampin' Up! Card Ideas Sketch Challenge Result with Video - Medallion Thanksgiving Card

Good Day Stampers!  A new week begins!  Monday is my favourite day of the week.  I had a productive weekend.  I'm still working on organizing my new stamp room.  I'll share pictures when I'm done.  I created this card based on my weekend challenge!  If you haven`t yet played along - please do!  I hope you can handle yet another Medallion card!  They are really fun and I still have another one in the works - so be sure to check back. Catch the Stampin' Up! video at the bottom of my post.

Stamps,Ink and paper I used:

Falling Leaves, Teeny Tiny Wishes, En Francais and Charming

Soft Suede Classic Ink,

Soft Suede and Vanilla Card Stock.  Spice Cake Designer Series Paper.

Spice Cake Designer Buttons, Lace Border Punch  

         
 



 
  
                                                    

 

Sketch Challenge SIP09111

   

Thanks for stopping by today.  I hope you'll take a little 'Me Time' this weekend to do what you love. I know that when I'm creating in my stamp studio, I'm a happy stamper!  Sometimes getting started is the toughest part....so, if you could use a little creative shot in the arm, try my sketch. Whether you're stamping a card or creating a new scrapbook page - use this for your inspiration!  I created the sketch in My Digital Studio.  Choose your own colour scheme, Designer Series Paper and embellishments and make it Stampin' Up! terrific!

Have fun!  I'll see you on Monday!

Maureen

Noah's Birthday Card

A very cool thing happened when I made yesterday's card.  See my 'Big Top Medallion Card'. It shows the side of the Big Top Birthday Designer Series Paper that I intended to use - but on the flip side is what you see on Noah's card!  His birthday isn't until next May - but I was so inspired I just had to make one for him and I'll just save it til next year.

You know how they say if a tree falls in the forest does it make any sound?  Well when I get all excited in my stamp studio all by myself - does anyone hear my shrieks of delight?  How cool is this card?  It looks like the Big Top Tent! 

and of I wanted to finish off the inside with a little pizazz!

 

The Stamps, Ink and Paper I used:

Happiest Birthday Wishes (hostess set) & Bring on the Cake 121899W, 121958C

Real Red #103133 & Tempting Turquoise #100814 Classic Ink

Big Top Birthday Designer Series Paper #122348

Simply Scored Scoring Tool, #122334,  1/2" Circle Punch #119869, Scallop Circle #2 Big Shot Die #113469
 

So, how can you get that exclusive Hostess Stamp Set? - Happiest Birthday Wishes

 
 It's not really so hard.  Put together an order of at least $200. before shipping and taxes and you'll get a $35. hostess credit.  With your credit you can choose this stamp set in wood for $26. or in clear mount for $18 and you'll have money left over to choose something else!  Order online 24/7 on my website

 

Big Top Medallion Card

Hi Stampers,

I have another card made with a paper medallion.  I love the way the Big Top Birthday Designer Paper comes together.  It looks so festive and reminds me of all the fall fairs coming up! 

I used the Simply Scored Scoring Tool to create the medallion and also in the corners for an extra little kick.  For the No and the 1 I used My Digital Studio, Stampin' Up!'s digital scrapbooking program.  I printed them onto Whisper White  and then punched out and layered.  What a fabulous way to create the number in the colour and size of my choice.  Learn more about My Digital Studio.  It's for more than just scrapbooking! For the inside I used another piece of the Big Top Designer paper and stamped 'U Rock' and 'Congratulations' instead.  Cool eh?

The Stamps, Ink & Paper I used:

Perfect Words  stamp set, Friendly Phrases 126149

Tempting Turqoise and Real Red ink

Tempting Turquoise, Real Red & Whisper White cardstock. 

My Digital Studio 118108, Simply Scored Scoring Tool and Stamp-a-ma-jig 101049. 

I have another medallion card for you tomorrow too.  And I'm working on a new fall theme framed piece.  Keep checking back!

Thanks for visiting!

Maureen

 

'Gently Falling' Thanksgiving Paper Medallion Card

Good Day Stampers!  Fall is in the air!  I can smell it in the Gently Falling leaves. Is it really the last official day of summer?  Gosh that makes me kinda sad to see summer slip away, but, I have to admit - the air is fresh and I do enjoy it!  I'll miss going out in my bare feet though!

For us Canadians, Thanksgiving is just around the corner.  I've been eyeing up this Spice Cake Designer Series Paper  that's in the Holiday Mini, pg 17.  I love it!  I even inlcuded in my new blog banner!  I had fun creating this Thanksgiving Day card.  I used our the new stamp set Gently Falling (pg 15 in the Holiday Mini) and the Simply Scored Scoring Tool  (pg 7 in the Holiday Mini) to create the medallion!  Let me know if you like it!  More pics below too. 

 The Stamps, Ink & Paper I used:

Gently Falling 123802, Teeny Tiny Wishes 115370, Pursuit of Happiness 121907 Stamps

Soft Suede Ink & Versamark Ink

More Mustard, Textured Pool Party & Soft Suede Cardstock, plus the Spice Cake DSP

also

Simply Scored Scoring Tool 122334, Boho Blossoms Punch 119858, Bitty Buttons 118761

I hope you feel inspired to create something today!

 
*If you're placing a minimum $50. order this month you'll be automatically enrolled in my new loyalty program.  More details to come!

Have a super day!

Maureen

Stampin' Up! 'Thank You' Card

I recently received this very nice 'thank you' card so I thought I'd share it with you!  It uses a couple of Stampin ' Up! embossing folders in a way you may not have thought of.

Enjoy!

Stampin' Up! TAX FREE Dec 1- 8, 2010 It's my gift to you!

Maureen’s No Tax Event

Tis’ the season for gift giving and I have a gift for you because I appreciate your business!  My customers have been so good to me and I’d like to give you a little break this time of year  - so (drum roll)…… for a limited time only - December 1^st to December 8^th inclusive, you can make a purchase, I'll let you pay the shipping, but I'll pay the tax! Don't miss this tax free event!  It's for 8 days only!

This is not a Stampin’ Up! promotion – so ordering online won’t work this time.  You will need to send me an email or leave me a detailed phone message with product codes, description and prices.  I’m sure I’ll be busy, so I’ll get back to you with a total as soon as I can. 

I don't want anyone to be left out - so, If you don't live near me - I can have your order shipped directly to you and I'll send you a voucher for the value of the tax that you can use on your January or February purchase.

As a side note - The ‘Handmade Holiday’ promotion continues, you can save 20% on those bundled products.  Download Handmade Holiday Flyer

Gift Certificates are available in any amount – ask for one for Christmas and then shop in January!

Download the Christmas wish list, fill it in, let me know who to contact and you just might get exactly what you want for Christmas! Download Christmas Wish List 2010 97-2003

 

Join Stampin' Up! Canada

START YOUR OWN BUSINESS

Come to my information night on Friday, Nov 26th.   7 - 8:30 p.m.  

Please RSVP if you plan to attend! 

PERKS for the Demonstrators: 

• Invited to demonstrator -only events
• Eligible to attend Stampin' Up! events including our amazing convention!
• Receive our Stampin' Success magazine each month in the mail
• Receive mini catalogues one month before the general public and purchase before everyone else
• Able to access to the "Stampin' Connection" with over 100,000 stamp-art samples available for you to copy!
• Have access to Stampin' Up!'s pattern & template library

Attend my information meeting to learn how you can save & earn money!

If you prefer to sign-up on my SU website, use my password  teamcanada

Stampin' Up!'s Online Spectacular! SAVE 30-40-50% plus *Free Shipping!

Time to SHOP & SAVE!

9 Days of Savings

9 Days of Free Shipping

         free shipping on qualifying orders. read more below on how everyone can get free shipping

Download Online Spectacular Flyer

To get *free shipping, you'll need to either place a minimum $200.  online order on my website.  and if you're doing that - you'll also get hostess benefits!  Ya gotta love that!

Your order can include sale and regular priced merchandise.

 OR if you live locally to me - join in on my combined order and get free shipping that way! 

You can email me or give me a call.

 

Stampin' Up! Vintage Christmas Card

I absolutely L-O-V-E the "Deck the Halls" Designer Series Paper!  Oh, the things you can do with one package of paper!!  Order now and save 20% when you purchase the Vintage Christmas bundle!! This is just one of many cards that I created with this bundle and they're all gorgeous!   Order on my website and receive a free exclusive video with all the other cards shown!  Here's what I used to make this card:

Stamps:  Bells & Boughs #120831 wood or #121142 in clear.  Many Merry Messages for inside verse #116586.

Ink:  Craft Ink Spot 'Cherry Cobbler'.  The set contains all 10 colours from the Regal Collection #119717, Versamark #102283 for stamping inside card.

Paper: Deck the Halls Designer Series Paper #120810, Cherry Cobbler Cardstock #119685, Crumb Cake Cardstock #121043, Early Espresso cardstock for tags on front #119686.

Accessories:  Clear Embossing Powder #109130, Vanilla Shimmer Smooch Spray #118772 (although you can't see it well in my photo - it looks great in real life!  Heat Tool for embossing #100005, 'Lots of Tags' Sizzlet 4-pack #114508.  Big Shot #113439,  Oval Extra Large Punch #119859 and Stampin' Dimensionals.

Order now and you can SAVE 20% when you purchase the Vintage Christmas Bundle which includes "Deck the Halls" Designer Series Paper and the "Bells & Boughs" stamp set available in both wood or clear mount.  Use the promotional code #124067 for wood mount bundle or #124068 for clear mount bundle. 

Order the bundle on my website and I'll send you a link to an exclusive video showing more cards using this bundle!

Stampin' Up! Video - Christmas Card #5 of 5

 This is the 5th of 5 cards that I had initially prepared but please come back - there will be more videos!  Enjoy!

JOIN Stampin' Up! - Starter Kit 50% OFF!

WOW, Stampin' Up! has never done this before!  The Stampin' Up! Starter Kit is 50% off!

Canadians can purchase the Starter kit for just $107.50 NOW through Nov. 30th.  The kit's value is over $375.00!

 

If you've ever thought about becoming a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator - then there's no better time than now to give it a whirl!  You can count on me for one-on-one training! I'll help you get started and coach you along the way.

It's a business in a box!  Buy it for yourself - you'll be glad you did.  Or ask for the Starter Kit as a Christmas gift! 

You can join Stampin' Up! online right now!  You just need my special password -teamcanada.  Click HERE to join now or call me to schedule a timeto talk it over.

Download Starter Kit order form  You can choose either of these two kits.

Download Digital Starter Kit Order Form Nov 2010

Download Frequently Asked Questions about being a demonstrator

Download Starter Kit Flyer 50% off

Download Independent Demonstrator Application

Download Independent Demonstrator Agreement

Order your kit now.  Follow this link and then click on 'JOIN NOW' on the left hand side of that screen.

Lest we forget

In Flanders Fields

By: Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, MD (1872-1918),Canadian Army

IN FLANDERS FIELDS the poppies blow
Between the crosses row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

---

 Read the story behind the poem.....

Stampin' Up! Weekend Challenge! Create a card or scrapboook page!

Are you up to the challenge?  Here's a card/scrapbook page layout for you.  I always say that scrapbooking is just a card design made bigger so you choose which you'd like to create! 

So get creating following this template!  Choose any Stampin' Up! stamps and colour palette that you like best.  When you're happy with your results, scan your card or scrapbook page and email it to me.  Maybe YOUR card or page will be featured on my blog!

Please use only current Stampin' Up! supplies to be considered for publication. 

email to maureenmcgrail@ciaccess.com

In the meantime - I need to go rake leaves today at my Retreat House. I Iove raking leaves, especially on a beautiful day like it is today.  Anybody want to help?

Stampin' Up! Video - Christmas Card #4 of 5

 I hope you enjoy my video!  Have you filled out your Christmas Wishlist yet?   Download Christmas Wish List 2010 97-2003 and then return it to me.  I'll take it from there. 

Have a wonderful Friday!! 

Maureen

Stampin' Up! Christmas Wish List - Get your copy here! Oh yeah!

Christmas is coming and some people might think you're 'hard to buy for'.  Imagine that?  If they only knew that you'd be more than pleased to have some new stamping supplies for Christmas!  That's where I can help!  I came up with a new Stampin' Up! Christmas Wishlist that you can donwload, fill in the blanks and send back to me.  It asks you to tell me who to contact to help them out with their shopping.  I'll send that person an email or give them a call - whichever you suggest.  It's a win-win situation!  I make their shopping easy and you get what you really, really want!

What would I suggest??  If you don't already have the Big Shot - that's where I'd start!  I use mine all the time!  Next, the Table Top Cutter is really awesome, I know you would love it!   Punches, punches, punches, the Colour Caddy!  I could go on and on!  :o)

Download Christmas Wish List 2010.  Just fill in the blanks, scan it and send it back to me, maureenmcgrail@ciaccess.com or mail it to me: Maureen McGrail,  RR#1, Dover Centre, ON,  N0P 1L0

Here's how to fill in the blanks:  Download Sample Wishlist

Have fun making up your Wishlist! 

Maureen

 

Stampin' Up! Glitter Trick! - a Tuesday Tip!

A Quick Trick for your Dazzling Diamonds Glitter! 

Everyone loves our Dazzling Diamonds Glitter.  I encourage everyone to buy the glitter and a 2-Way Glue Pen - they're a dynamic duo for about $10 - a great value that will last a loooong time and is great for card making & scrapbooking!

Did you know you can dye Dazzling Diamonds to coordinate with any Stampin’ Up! colour?  Here’s how:

1. Add one drop of Classic Stampin’ Ink Refill and a few drops of water to an empty Stack & Store container or any tiny plastic container, preferably with a lid.
2. Add about 1/2 teaspoon of Dazzling Diamonds and mix. Continue adding glitter until all the dye is absorbed. The glitter will become fluffy as it absorbs the dye.
3. Continue to mix glitter until it sparkles. The dyed glitter will stay fluffy but the colour will reflect off the glitter, so all you see is coloured sparkles.
4. For a puffed up look, try using our Tombow Liquid Glue and then spinkle your glitter on.  It will give you a little extra dimension!

I hope you'll give it a try!  Have a super day!

Come back tomorrow - I'll have the 4th Christmas Card Video for you.

Maureen

 

Christmas Stocking Gift Card Holder #1 - a Work Sock for the guys!

 
If you really want to have a great day – you have to ‘Start your day stamping!’ OMG I am having SO much fun today in my stamp studio! I woke up dreaming about stamping so I knew it was going to be a productive day.....and maybe I'll just stamp all weekend! I came across the pattern for this stocking on Claire Brennan's blog - she's a gal from
Ireland. I think this pattern has endless possibilities! 
Here are the Stamps, Ink and Paper that I used to create this one!  You can see why I call my blog that eh?

Stamps I used: Tags til Christmas
#120847 in wood or #121169 in Clear mount. OR buy the Tags til Christmas Bundle 2 - which includes the Ornament Punch. #124077 in wood or #124078 in clear mount.  (The bundle was first introduced with the Decorative Label punch however, Stampin' Up! has had difficulties with the supplier so they came up with bundle #2.)

Ink: Markers in Real Red #100052 and Basic Gray #120966, Vanilla Craft Ink #104308

Paper: Cardstock in Basic Gray #121044, Real Red # 102482 and Very Vanilla #101650

Accessories: Tag Punch #119876, Brads, Brights Collection #119740, Linen Thread, 104199, Texturz Plates Kit #4, #114531, Big Shot #113439, Snail Adhesive, 104332, Tombow® Multipurpose Liquid Glue, # 110755

If you like it – leave me a comment!  I'll have another stocking sample to show you tomorrow!

Maureen

 
 
 

















 

Stampin' Up! Video - Christmas Card #3 of 5

 You may need to click on 'October's postings' to see the previous Christmas Card videos.  Enjoy!  I have two more to come to complete this series!

Starter Kit for Stampers!

Someone recently asked me what she should buy for her daughter who is a new mom and has just started to scrapbook. She tells me that her daughter is quite creative although she hasn't stamped or scrapbooked in the past. 

With the gift-giving season soon to be upon us, this is a great time to give someone the gift that will express their creativity and create a lasting memory!

Here's what I would suggest:  Basic Stampin' Up! Supplies for a 'Getting Started Kit'.

You're always going to need stamps, ink and paper, plus a Personal Paper Trimmer #104152, Bone Folder #102300 and a Versamark Pad #102283 is a must!  

Stamps: I like Upsy Daisy #111710 for card-making.  It's easy to use, you can make it in lots of different colours and it covers birthdays, thank you and thinking of you.  For scrapbookers... I really like "Fox & Friends" pg. 96 #117020 in wood, it's very adaptable for baby pages.  For some wintry pages I like "Serene Snowflakes" pg. 42 #115438, for camping take a look at "Under the Stars" pg. 94 #111556 and remember you'll want an album to get started with.  I would also start off with traditional wood mount stamps.

Ink & Paper:  Choose a box of Stampin' Ink Spots in the colour family of choice and then order the matching cardstock in the same colour family either in 8-1/2" x 11" or 12" x 12" depending on the size of scrapbook album.  You'll also want to include a package of Whisper White cardstock, or Very Vanilla depending on which colour family you're choosing.   

Not sure which colour family to start with?  Often your choice of stamps will point you in the right direction, so choose the stamps first. 

My 8" x 8" scrapbook page above uses "Awash with Flowers" pg. 99 #117062.  That's my niece Emma, isn't she a doll?

Give me a call or send me an email and I can walk you through the process of choosing just the right gift for someone in your life. 

Have a relaxing Sunday!

Maureen

 

Christmas Stocking Gift Card Holder #2

Here's another gift card holder.  One for the ladies.  It would make a great gift for a teacher.  I know teachers appreciate gift cards and this would make it so much more special!  They are so adorable aren't they?  They measure about 7" in height - perfect to set in the branches of your Christmas tree!  This version is made with:

Ink:  Early Espresso (one of my favourite colours) #119670

Paper:  Cardstock in Early Espresso #119686, Cherry Cobbler #119685, Deck the Halls Designer Series Paper # 120810

Accessories:  Scallop Trim Border Punch #118402, 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, Early Espresso #119959, Stampin' Sponge #101610, Texturz Plates #4 #114531, Big Shot Die Cutting Machine #113439.

My New Signature!

 Is this not the coolest thing you've ever seen?  I LOVE my new signature.  I'm including it in all my emails and I just figured out how to get it on my blog too!  That's a big deal for me!  Try clicking the buttons - they should all link!

Signature powered by: esigmarketing.com Get yours today!