The Scalloped Edge

Lucy the Birthday Girl! {MFTWSC56}

2012-01-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! It's Wednesday and that means it's time for another Wednesday Stamp Club Sketch Challenge from My Favorite Things! We have another FABULOUS sketch this week so I hope you can play along!

Head on over to the MFT Blog for a link to each designer!

I made my card for my neighbor's daughter, Lucy, who will be celebrating her 5th birthday next week. So woohoo for me having it done in advance!

I used the Pure Innocence image, Believe in Magic and paired her with some MME Lost & Found Two Blush Papers (6x6). She was colored with Copics and I finished her skirt, wings and wand with a mixture of Glossy Accents and Irridescent Ice Glitter that I brushed on with a small paint brush. She was layered on an Open Scallop Doily Duo Die-namics die cut from Fossil cardstock. The sentiment on the front of the card is from another Pure Innocence set, My Balloon. It was cut out using the Die-namics First Place Award Ribbon die. Some machine stitching finishes the front.

Here is a close up of all the glitter:

And the finished inside......

And here are the Die-namics I used:

That's all from me today! I hope you have a great day!

MFT~Scor-Pal Blog Hop~

2012-01-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there and welcome to the My Favorite Things/Scor-Pal Blog Hop! I am thrilled to be a part of this hop because I love my Scor-Pal as much as I love my MFT stamps and die-namics!

To see the complete list of participating designers from MFT and Scor-Pal, head on over to the MFT Blog!

I have a rather long post for you today that includes a tutorial....so grab a cuppa, sit back and relax!

When the original Scor-Pal was introduced, I purchased it immediately and when the newest version came out I couldn't wait to get my hands on it! My Scor-Pal sits on my desk and is used EVERY time I make a project....even if it is to just score a card fold. It is an essential tool in my stamping arsenal.

I made a card using the newest Flopsey, Bunches of Hearts. Flopsey was colored with Copics, was cut out and then popped up for dimension. He was layered on a heart cut using one of the Layered Hearts Die-namics that was cut from corrugated cardboard. I also swiped some Vintage Cream ink across the heart to give it some more interest. The sentiments are from the same set and were cut out with the Mini Tab and First Place Award Ribbon Die-namics.

Do you see the scored diamond pattern on the denim colored panel? That was done with my Scor-Pal. I have a problem with "plain" cardstock on a card so adding a diamond pattern for interest is something I do often. I took a few pictures as I scored the paper and will have a tutorial at the end of this post.

This picture shows the dimension I LOVE on a card front......

And here is the finished inside.....

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Now onto the Scored Diamond Pattern Tutorial: (it's my first ever tutorial so go easy on me :)

I started with a piece of patterned paper cut into a 5" square. I lined my paper up corner to corner at the 5" mark. Make sure the bottom corner is on the same line to ensure a perfect pattern. The point of the corner fits perfectly in the little notch at the top.

Score down the center from corner to corner.....

Then score from edge to edge every 1/2". For some reason I go to the right and then to the left. Habit....but do what works for you.

This is what it looks like when you're done with the first half.....

Now turn your patterned paper so the original score lines are horizontal making sure to keep each corner on the same line. Again, I chose the 5" score line......(6 is actually the middle)

And repeat the scoring again, every 1/2".

And here it is finished! Now all you have to do is add it to your card!

Well, if you're still with me, you're done! Thanks so much for stopping by! I hope you have a great day!

Stamps: Bunches of Hearts Flopsey (MFT)

Paper: Fossil, Vintage Cream, Crate Paper Random (6x6)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Copic Markers

Accessories: Scor-Pal, Layered Heart, Mini Tab and First Place Award Ribbon Die-namics (MFT), Lace Trim, Sewing Machine, Corrugated Cardboard, Foam Tape

Happy Day! {MFTWSC55}

2012-01-18T09:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! It's Wednesday and it's time for another Wednesday Stamp Club Sketch from My Favorite Things! I am IN LOVE with this week's sketch so I hope you'll play along!

Head on over to Kim's Blog for a link to each designer!

My card today uses the Feeling Froggy Pure Innocence image, paired with the the following Die-namics: Fringed Perrenial, Mini Wavy Pennants, Mini Pennants and Simply Scallops Medium on the inside. The patterned papers are LOVE by Fancy Pants (6x6).

Here is a close up of the gorgeous Fringed Perrenial.....It was finished with an adhesive pearl.

And the inside.....

Here are the Die-namics I used:

Well, that's all from me today! I hope you have a great day!

January MFT VIP New Product Tour!

2012-01-17T19:01:00.000-08:00

Hi there! It's time for the January VIP New Product Tour from My Favorite Things! This month's kit is the Classic Kids Pure Innocence Collection and it is AWESOME!

Here is the kit:

Pure Innocence Classic Kids VIP Collection $26.50

Pure Innocence Violin Girl stamp set

Pure Innocence Blowing Bubbles stamp set

Classic Kids Sentiments mini (VIP exclusive stamp set - will never be offered for sale or be available again $9 value, FREE)

Monarch Border Die-namics Die

The VIP Kit is a LIMITED QUANTITY product that gives you the opportunity to purchase upcoming stamp sets and a new Die-namics die THREE WEEKS early. The mini set that is included in the VIP kit for free will be EXCLUSIVE to the VIP kit and will never be available for purchase.

I used the new and ADORABLE, Blowing Bubbles for my card. The The Monarch Border Die-namics was also used. The image was colored with Copics and was cut out and popped up for dimension. The layout is this week's Mojo Monday sketch. The Die-namics Dainty Doily Duo was used behind the main image and the Die-namics First Place Award Ribbon die was used for the sentiment. Some machine stitching finishes the front.

Here is the inside.......

Head on over to the Kim's Blog for a link to each designer!

Thanks for stopping by!

Verve Diva After Party Blog Hop!

2012-01-14T05:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our January 2012 After Party Hop! Last night we released 3 new stamp sets, 4 plain janes and 4 dies! All of the new products we've been showcasing this week are available now in the Verve store! Be sure to leave a little comment love as you take a stroll through the Diva blogs. One lucky commenter from today's hop will win the ENTIRE Release! Check out the Verve Blog today for all the prize details and deadlines.

I am the caboose on this Diva party train, so if you arrived here from Shannan's blog then you're in the right place. To start the hop from the beginning head on over to Amy's blog!

I LOVE this new release and it was hard to choose which set to use but I finally settled on Wings of Love with the coordinating Wavy Hearts die. The sentiment is from Twitterpated. I LOVE the simple sentiments from each of these sets and the heart with wings? SWOON..........

I started my card with this week's Deconstructed Sketch, although I left off a couple panels in the long run. It was, however, the inspiration for my card! I stamped the heart/wings stamp in Versamark ink onto acetate paper and heat embossed with white embossing powder. The heart itself was cut from corrugated cardboard with the Wavy Hearts Die. I finished the heart by swiping some Vintage Cream ink across some of the raised cardboard. The sentiment was cut with a die and was scored so I could fold it to give it "wings". Some lace trim, adhesive gems and some twill ribbon tied with a button and some linen thread finish the tag. I rounded the corners with a corner chomper and finished the card with some machine stitching. All of the patterned papers are from the Crate Paper Paper Heart Collection (6x6).

Here is a close up of the corrugated cardboard heart and acetate wings......

*January 14, 2012*

1. Amy	8. Tosha
2. Maureen	9. Laurie
3. Sankari	10. Julee
4. Andrea	11. Janelle
5. Teresa	12. Betty
6. Amber	13. Shannan
7. Charmaine	14. Jackie

Well, that's all from me today! I hope you enjoyed the hop!!

Stamps: Wings of Love, Twitterpated (Verve)

Paper: Crate Paper Paper Heart Collection (6x6)

Ink: Dark Chocolate (PTI), Versamark

Accessories: Wavy Hearts Die (Verve), Tag You're It Die-namics (MFT), Fine Linen Twill Ribbon and Button (PTI), Linen Thread (TCP), Lace Trim (Melissa Frances), Adhesive Gems, Corner Chomper, White Embossing Powder, Sewing Machine, Foam Tape

I Love You.....From the Heart {MFTWSC54}

2012-01-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! It's Wednesday and time for another fabulous Wednesday Stamp Club Sketch from My Favorite Things! The sketch this week is a fun one so I hope you can play along!

Head on over to the MFT Blog for a link to each designer participating in today's sketch!

I have a little story behind my card.....

I made my card (early for once) and last night while editing and then uploading I saw that my card was almost IDENTICAL to Jodi's card, papers and all. (Well, it wasn't IDENTICAL, but close enough) We'd used the same stamp set, Bunch of Hearts Flopsey, the same papers, Yours Truly from Echo Park, and of course the same layout. I didn't want Jodi to think I was some crazed stamping stalker :), so I did a redo of my card last night! Still similar, but not exact. Great minds think alike is what I keep telling myself (GRIN). Anywho....here it is in all its glory:

And here is a pic of the inside:

I used the following Die-namics dies, too:

Mini Wavy Pennants

Mini Pennants:

Simply Scallops Medium:

Well, that's all from me today!! I hope you have a great day!

MFT January Creative Challenge ~ Masculine

2012-01-09T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! It's time for the January Creative Challenge from My Favorite Things! This month This month's challenge is to make Masculine cards! I hesitated when signing up for this challenge because masculine cards are a toughie for me, but I'm always up for a challenge, so I jumped in with both feet....sort of! LOL!

Head on over to Kim's blog for a link to each designer participating in this month's challenge!

I pulled out the set, At the Movies along with the coordinating At the Movies Die-namics, Mini Film Strip Die-namics and Stacking Stars Die-namics. I feel that stars are masculine. Don't ask me why, but I do! I searched through my vast amount of 6x6 paper pads and finally settled on Authentique's Free Bird series Poised & Warmth. I think these papers look masculine because of the diamond pattern (masculine to my eye) and I find them to be gender neutral colors.

I stamped the sentiment in Dark Chocolate ink, finishing the panel with some stars from the set in Crushed Curry ink. I cut a piece of corrugated cardboard from my stash with a star die (Spellbinders) and inked the edges with some Vintage Cream ink. I finished the card with some of the Stacking Stars and some chocolate buttons. Notice I did not tie the buttons, bows are not masculine :)

Here is a close up:

Here are the Die-namics I used:

Thanks for stopping by!

January Diva Inspirations Hop.....

2012-01-05T03:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! I'm happy to welcome you to the very first Diva Inspirations Hop of the New Year! I have made a few changes in my stamping life and moving from the Verve Release Team to the Verve Diva Inspiration Team is one of them! I'm really excited to be here!

The Diva Inspiration Team is here to start your month off with a little Verve inspiration! You may notice we've changed the date to the 5th of each month......same fabulous inspiration, different date! You can start the Hop at the Verve Blog! Continue to each blog and leave a comment as you go for your chance to win some Verve goodness of your own!

I started my card with this week's awesome Mojo Monday sketch, Mojo222. The sentiment, from Making a Statement, was stamped in Dark Chocolate ink and was cut out with the Curvy Bookplate Die. The outline stamp, from Tag Time, was stamped in Taken With Teal ink. The butterfly, from Blue Skies, was stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black, was colored with Copics and was cut out. I glued the center of the butterfly down and popped with wings up with foam squares. Some adhesive gems and machine stitching finish the card! All of the papers are Authentique Splendid (6x6).

Your next stop on the hop is to the amazing blog of Jen del Muro!

Thanks for stopping by!

2012-01-03T19:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there and welcome to the My Favorite Things New Product tour! Everything you've seen peeked over the last seven days is now available in the MFT Boutique! But before you rush over to the store to get your goodies, why don't you hop around with the MFT Design Team to gain a little more inspiration for those sets you've got your eye on!

Head on over to Kim's blog for a link to each designer!

For my card I used the Mono Alphabet and paired it with the new Pure Innocence image, Precious Little Lamb Fill My Heart With Joy! I used the Layered Heart Die-namics die. The lamb was paper pieced and colored with Copics. The Simply Scallops die was used down the side. A twill ribbon bow, a rounded corner and some machine stitching finish the card. All the papers are MME Love Me (6x6)

Here are the Die-namics dies I used:

Thanks for stopping by!

Love You This Big!

2012-01-02T21:00:00.000-08:00

Now that we've teased and tempted you all week long, it's almost time for you to shop for your favorite Brand Spankin' New products from MFT.

But first... it's time for our Die-namics Feature and Pre-Release Pep Rally!

Our Design Team has been busy creating jaw-dropping and inspiring projects for you, and we've saved the best for last.

We've taken an in-depth look at this month's Die-namics, while re-visiting the amazing sets being released tonight at 10 PM EST RIGHT HERE in the MFT Boutique.

And while we are at it, how about we make your life even easier with a "cheat sheet" of all that's new? Head over to the MFT Blog to print out a shopping list.

For my card I've used the new and completely adorable Pure Innocence set I Love You This Big. I started with the MFT Wednesday Stamp Club sketch from last Wednesday, MFTWSC52. I replaced the rectangle to a heart so I could use the new Die-namics Layered Heart dies. I LOVE this set of dies! The sentiment was masked so I could use the Die-namics Mini Wavy Pennant dies. Another MUST HAVE set of dies. So fun. The image was colored with Copics and was paper pieced. He was popped up for dimension. Some tiny brads and machine stitching finish the card. All of the patterned papers are MME Lost and Found Portobello Road (6x6).

Here are the Die-namics I used:

Here are the details about the upcoming release on January 3rd at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on January 3rd from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on January 3rd at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
You have just a few more hours to submit your entry for this month's guest designer contest. Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the designers' posts for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on January 3rd just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

Pure Innocence Day!

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

Hi there!! It's my FAVORITE day of teasers from My Favorite Things! It's Pure Innocence Day! We are introducing SIX new PI images: Plane Amazing, Berry Sweet, Paper Dolls, Jump for Joy, I Love You This Big and Precious Little Lamb-Fill My Heart with Joy.

Head on over to Kim's blog for a direct link to each designer.

I used Paper Dolls with the coordinating Paper Dolls Border for my card. All of the patterned papers are from Happy Travels by Glitz (6x6).

I colored the image with Copics, paper piecing her dress and the dolls. The sentiment was masked so I could use a portion on the front and the rest on the inside. I used the File Tab Die-namics die to cut it out. The Paper Dolls Border was used at the bottom and was cut from a piece of patterned paper. Some machine stitching finishes the front.

Here is a picture of the inside. The Paper Dolls Border was used again here along with the rest of the sentiment:

Here are the Die-namics I used:

Here are the details about the upcoming release on January 3rd at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on January 3rd from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!

The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on January 3rd at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.

The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.

If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on January 3rd just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thank you for stopping by!

Chocolate = Happiness!

2011-12-31T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there and Happy New Year! I hope you all had a wonderful and safe evening! We have had a yummy dinner and are about to play Just Dance (1,2 and 3) on the Wii! It will be alot of fun! Anywho...I'll get on to why you're here!

It's the 5th day of teasers from My Favorite Things and it's one of my favorite days......à la mode day!! We are introducing two new à la modes: Dip Me in Chocolate and Genie!

Head on over to Kim's blog for a link to each designer!

I used Dip Me in Chocolate for my card. I paired her with some MME Honey Cake papers. She was colored with Copics, was cut out and popped up for dimension on a tag cut with the Die-namics Tag You're It die. The tag was finished with some chocolate twill an orange button and some linen thread. The sentiment was cut out with the Die-namics Bracket Tab die. The scallops down the side were made with the Simply Scallops Medium. Some rounded corners made with a Corner Chomper and machine stitching finish the card.

Here are the Die-namics I used:

Here are the details about the upcoming release on January 3rd at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on January 3rd from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!

The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on January 3rd at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.

The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.

If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on January 3rd just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

MFTeasers: Day Four!

2011-12-30T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there and Happy New Year's Eve! Can you believe that it's the last day on 2011? I hope you all have a fantastic New Year's and if you're going to be out driving, please be safe!

It's day four of teasers from My Favorite Things and today we are introducing At the Movies Stamp Set and Die-namics and Monogram Alphabet!

Head on over to Kim's Blog for direct links to each designer's blog!

I used both At the Movies and the Monogram Alphabet on my card. The main image sentiment was stamped in Dark Chocolate and Poppy Parade inks. The film strip frame and tag were both cut out using the At the Movies Die-namics dies. The scallops down the side were made with the Simply Scallops Large. The arrow was cut out with scissors. Some machine stitching and twill ribbon finish the front. All of the patterned papers are My Mind's Eye Love Me.

Here is a look at the inside. I used the Monogram Alphabet for "LOVE" and the You is part of a sentiment from At the Movies that I simply masked off. Oh, and don't pay attention to that little portion down the right side where there is no stitching. I had a sewing machine malfunction :)

Here are the Die-namics I used:

Here are the details about the upcoming release on January 3rd at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on January 3rd from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!

The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on January 3rd at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.

The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.

If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on January 3rd just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

MFTeasers: Day Two!

2011-12-28T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there and welcome back to day two of teasers from My Favorite Things! Today is an exciting day for me because Flopsey is back!!! We are introducing the newest Flopsey set, Bunches of Hearts. You are going to love him!!

Head on over to Kim's blog for a link to each designer!

I was thrilled to see Flopsey back in the release line up! I colored him with Copics, adding some Glitter Ritz to the hearts. He was fussy cut out and popped up for dimension. The Die-namics I used on today's card are the new (and awesome) Layered Hearts, First Place Award Ribbon (for the sentiment) and Hearts a Plenty. Some machine stitching finishes the front. The patterned papers are Yours Truly by Echo Park.

The heart on the inside was cut from My Favorite Felt in Cherry On Top. A little machine stitching finishes the inside.

Here are the Die-namics I used:

Here are the details about the upcoming release on January 3rd at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on January 3rd from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!

The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on January 3rd at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.

The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.

If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on January 3rd just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

MFTeasers: Day ONE!

2011-12-27T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there!! I can't believe that Christmas is over and we are ready for the first day of teasers for My Favorite Things! This release is jam packed with fantastic new sets and Die-namics dies! Today we are introducing Who's That Parisian Girl! WTG goes to Paris!

Head on over to Kim's blog for a link to each designer!

Now onto my card....Who's That Girl was colored with Copics. I cut her out with scissors and layered her on Dark Chocolate cardstock. The sentiment was stamped in Dark Chocolate ink and was cut out with one of the Mini Tab Die-namics. I LOVE the new Eiffel Tower Die-namics die....perfect with this set! The Simply Scallops Medium Die-namics was used at the bottom. Some machine stitching finishes the front. All of the patterned papers are from the MME Six By Six Paris & Co. pad.

Here's a picture of the inside of the card.....just a sentiment, a strip of patterned paper and some machine stitching....

Here are the Die-namics I used on my card:

Here are the details about the upcoming release on January 3rd at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on January 3rd from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!

The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on January 3rd at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.

The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.

If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on January 3rd just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

Sorry, My Head Was In the Clouds....

2011-12-20T19:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! It's time for the My Favorite Things VIP New Product Tour! We have a FANTASTIC new VIP kit for you featuring, for the second month in a row, Pure Innocence images!!!

Head on over to Kim's Blog to see a full list of designers!

Here is the info on the the new VIP kit:

Pure Innocence In the Air VIP Collection $25.95

Pure Innocence Jump for Joy stamp set

Pure Innocence Plane Amazing stamp set

In the Air Sentiments mini (VIP exclusive stamp set - will never be offered for sale or be available again $9 value, FREE)

Rolled Scallop Flower Die-namics Die

Today, the MFT VIP will be released. It is a LIMITED QUANTITY product that gives customers the opportunity to purchase upcoming stamp sets and a new Die-namics die TWO WEEKS early.

The mini set that is included in the VIP kit for free will be EXCLUSIVE to the VIP kit and will never be available for purchase.

I used the adorable, Plane Amazing for my card. She was colored with Copics, was fussy cut out and popped up for dimension. I added some Ranger Glossy Accents to the lenses on her glasses. The Flat Bottom Clouds were cut from Puff Cloud White My Favorite Felt. One of the clouds was popped up on foam tape for dimension. The scallops at the bottom of the card were made with the Simply Scallops Medium Die-namics die. The sentiment was masked so that I could stamp each line on a sentiment flag cut using the Die-namics First Place Award Ribbon die. Some machine stitching finishes the card. The patterned paper is MME Lost and Found Two Breeze.

That's all from me today! Thanks for stopping by!

Merry Christmas, Honey! {TCP Tuesday 189}

2011-12-14T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! I have a card to share with you for this week's TCP Tuesday challenge. Susan is our Hostess with the Mostess and has challenged us to use our Holiday Stamps! This challenge couldn't have come at a better time since TCP just released some fantastic new holiday images!

I used the new set Merry Christmas Honey paired with the fantastic new Cut Ups Anwhere Ribbon Slide. The ribbon is the new Cranberry Seam Binding from TCP and the papers are MME The Merry Days of Christmas. The image was colored with Copics. The sentiment was cut out with Circle Nestabilities and was sponged with Riding Hood Red ink before removing from the die. See the snowflakes? They are from the awesome new Cut Ups Snowflake Lace Paper die. The snowflakes were covered in Dazzling Diamonds and finished with an adhesive gem. Some machine stitching finishes the card.

Here are the Cut Ups I used:

To find out all the TCP Tuesday details and how you can play along to win some Cat's Cash, just head on over to Alma's Blog!

Thanks for stopping by!

MFT December Creative Challenge ~ It's A Wrap!

2011-12-12T21:07:00.000-08:00

Hi there! It's time again for this month's Creative Challenge from My Favorite Things! This month's challenge is called It's a Wrap! We are focusing on creative gift giving solutions.....gift packaging, bows, tags, custom boxes, etc....

Be sure to check the MFT Blog for a list of designers who have creative gift solutions for you today!

I was in need of a small box for a gift and while I had out all of the supplies, made a tag that coordinates!

I made a pizza box using this tutorial on Splitcoaststampers. These boxes are so simple to make! The box was cut from Cherry Cobbler cardstock to match the colors in the Simple Stories Twelve Days of Christmas patterned paper. The poinsettias were made using the Die-namics Upsy Daisy dies. The sentiment, from Clearly Sentimental About Christmas, was masked so that I could separate the two words. They were stamped in Cherry Cobbler ink onto a sentiment flag cut using the Die-namics First Place Award Ribbon die. I added some machine stitching and finished each flower/poinsettia with a twine tied button. If you scroll down, you'll see that I made a belly band to hold the box closed.

Here is a picture of the belly band off of the box:

I used the Die-namics Tag You're It die, along with the Die-namics Upsy Daisy die and the Die-namics Fancy Flourish Die. The sentiment is from the Christmas Ornaments Die-namics and Stamp Set. Some checked ribbon, twine and a button finish the tag!

Here are the Die-namics I used:

Well, that's all from me today! I hope I inspired you to try some creative gift packaging of your own!

Thanks for stopping by!

Raider Football!!!

2011-12-06T19:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there and welcome to the My Favorite Things New Product Tour! Everything you've seen peeked the last seven days is now available for purchase in the MFT Boutique! But before you rush over to the store to get your goodies, why don't you hop around with the MFT Design Team to gather just a little more inspiration from those sets you've got your eye on!

Head on over to Kim's Blog for a link to each designer!

My card comes with a warning.....if you don't like the Oakland Raiders then this post might not be for you! LOL! I am married to a tried and true Oakland Raider fan. My hubby, Frank, loves the Raiders so much he even has a Raider tattoo on his forearm.....but let's keep that between you and me, K? When I saw the new All Star Die-namics and Stamp set I knew I HAD to make him a Raider card! He's going to love it!

I die cut a football, stamping the threads in Fresh Snow ink. See the little Raider emblem? I found an image online, shrunk it down, cut it out and put it on the football! The pedestal the football sits on was cut from black cardstock. "Game On" was stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black and is also a little die from the set. I love that these dies give an impression on the cardstock. I sewed around the circle one stitch at a time. Jody does this all the time and even though my thumb was numb and tired from turning the dial on the sewing machine, it was well worth it for the look! The letters were cut using the new By the Letters Die-namics dies.

Here is the finished inside with another sentiment from the set. I think this is how my hubby really feels :)

And here's a close up of the football:

And the Die-namics I used:

Well that's all from me! Thank you so much for stopping by!

MFT Die-namics Feature and Pre-Release Pep Rally

2011-12-05T21:00:00.000-08:00

Now that we've teased and tempted you all week long, it's almost time for you to shop for your favorite Brand Spankin' New products from MFT.

But first... it's time for our Die-namics Feature and Pre-Release Pep Rally!

Our Design Team has been busy creating jaw-dropping and inspiring projects for you, and we've saved the best for last.

We've taken an in-depth look at this month's Die-namics, while re-visiting the amazing sets being released tonight at 10 PM EST RIGHT HERE in the MFT Boutique.

And while we are at it, how about we make your life even easier with a "cheat sheet" of all that's new? Head over to the MFT Blog to print out a shopping list.

For my card I've paired the new adorable Pure Innocence Heart Warmer with the following Die-namics dies: By the Letters (new this month), Mix and Match Banners (new this month), Hearts a Plenty, Notched Tag (small heart), First Place Award Ribbon (sentiment flags), and the Wonky Scallop Border. I just love the versatility of mixing the Die-namics dies!

The darling Pure Innocence image was colored with Copics, was cut out and then popped up for dimension. Some machine stitching and a button tied with ivory linen thread finish the card. All of the patterned papers are from the Echo Park Season's Greetings 6x6 pad.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!

The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.

You have just a few more hours to submit your entry for this month's guest designer contest. Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.

If you'd like to see all the designers' posts for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thank you for stopping by!

MFTeasers: Day Six!

2011-12-04T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there and welcome to my favorite day of MFTeasers......Pure Innocence Day! We have SEVEN new Pure Innocence images to introduce today: Good Fortune, Ice Princess, Holly Girl, Heart Warmer, Cause for Celebration, Frosty and Fabulous and Precious Little Lamb Baby Lamb in the Manger. Whew.......I'll get right to it!

I Love You.....Snow Much:

I used the new PI set Frosty and Fabulous. I just love this snowman! He was stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black and was colored with copics. The snow is Crystal Coarse Glitter by Martha Stewart. The sentiment was stamped in Dark Chocolate and was cut out using the new Die-namics Mini Tabs! These are a mini version of the large tabs that I LOVE and are perfect for smaller sentiments! The large heart was cut using the heart die in the Homespun Birdhouse Die-namics. The small heart is from the Notched Tags Die-namics. Both hearts were cut from My Favorite Felt in Blue Skies and Chocolate Fudge. The scallops down the side were made with the Die-namics Wonky Scallop Border die. Some machine stitching finishes the front. All of the patterned papes are from the Authentique 6x6 Gathering collection.

The finished inside.....

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!

The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.

The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.

If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thank you for stopping by!

MFTeasers: Day Five!

2011-12-03T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there and welcome to the fifth day of teasers from My Favorite Things! Today is one of my most favorite days of teasers: à la Mode day!! Today we have two new à la Modes to introduce to you: Ski Bunny and Hot Cocoa Cutie.

Friendship Warms the Heart:

I used the new Hot Cocoa Cutie and what a cutie she is! She was colored with Copics. Her giant mug was paper pieced. She was fussy cut out and popped up for dimension. I masked the sentiment to fit it on two flags. The sentiment flags were cut using the Die-namics First Place Award Ribbon. The Die-namics Double Scallop Border was used on the bottom. Some brads and machine stitching finish the front. All the papers are from the Authentique 6x6 Journey pad.

A picture of the finished inside. If you're wondering, that is patterned paper she is stamped on.......

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!

The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.

The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.

If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

MFTeasers: Day Three

2011-12-01T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! It's day three of teasers from My Favorite Things and today we are introducing Clearly Sentimental About Christmas (last month's Triple Scoop Set) and Pearls of Wisdom (this month's Triple Scoop set).

May Your Season Be Filled with Love and Laughter:

I used Clearly Sentimental About Christmas for my card. I absolutley love the font! My card uses patterned papers from the 12 Days of Christmas line by Simple Stories.

I stamped the sentiment on an Oval Open Scallop Doily in Memento Tuxedo Black. The flowers were made with the Upsy Daisy Die-namics. Each flower was finished with a button and some linen thread. The tag behind the oval was made with the Tag You're It Die-namics. It was finished with a button, linen thread and some black twill ribbon. The Danity Lace Border was cut from black cardstock. A rounded corner and some machine stitching finish the front.

The finished inside using another sentiment from Clearly Sentimental About Christmas.

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!

The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.

The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.

If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

Verve Holiday Diva Dare!

2011-12-01T03:00:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! Can you believe that today is December 1st? It's crunch time, baby! Thankfully I am about 95% done with my Christmas shopping! I've never been done so early but I plan on doing this from now on! It feels great!

Verve is in the middle of the Holiday Diva Dare over on the Verve blog, but for those of you who are new to this challenge, here is how it works: Following each release, we will post a theme that we dare you with and you'll then have two weeks to complete the challenge. During those two weeks, the release team will be posting their creations and sharing how they answered the dare!

This month's theme is A Handmade Christmas! The theme is pretty broad and can be interpreted in so many different ways...from a lovingly made card, to heartfelt gifts and homemade decorations! With the Holidays right around the corner, this will be the perfect time to get a jump start on your card and gift making!

I'll give you one guess as to how I answered the dare.....Give up? TAGS, of course!

You all know I LOVE to make tags! So here's a peek at what I made! To see a few more pictures and more details on how I made them, just head on over to the Verve Blog!

Thanks for stopping by!

MFTeasers: Day Two!

2011-11-30T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! It's day two of teasers from My Favorite Things and today we're introducing three new sets: Inspired By Flowers (set 4), Inspired By Months of the Year and Fred Bear Gives Comfort!

Sending Bear Hugs:

Isn't Fred cute? He was colored with Copics and his blanket was paper pieced. He was cut out and popped up for that dimension that I love so dearly! He was layered on a new Die-namics Oval Open Scallop Doily cut from Kraft cardstock. The sentiment was cut from the Die-namics Bracket Tab. Some Caribbean Teal Twine with a button and some machine stitching finish the front! All of the papers are from the Authentique Free Bird Series NEST.

The finished inside......

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!

The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.

The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.

If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

I Always Love Hearing From You!

2011-11-30T09:00:00.000-08:00

It's Wednesday and time for another Wednesday Stamp Club sketch challenge from My Favorite Things! This week's sketch is easy peasy! For those of you who don't know, I take quite awhile to make a card, like usually two+ hours on a regular day, but this card only took me about a half an hour from start to finish! Winner in my book!

I followed the sketch LITERALLY and used Well Worn Greetings Die-namics and Stamp Set. I just love this set and haven't used it in a long time! The sentiment was stamped in Dark Chocolate ink. The heart was cut from yellow felt using the Die-namics Hearts a Plenty die. It was finished with a button tied with linen thread. Some rounded corners and machine stitching finish the card. All of the papers are October Afternoon Sidewalks.

The finished inside......

We'd love to have you play along! To see a list of participating designers for today's sketch just head on over to Kim's Blog! Then head on over to the MFT forum at SCS and upload your sketch card using the keyword MFTWSC48. You could be the winner of a $15 voucher to spend at the store! ($20 if you use MFT stamps).

Thanks for stopping by!

MFTeasers Day One!

2011-11-29T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there and welcome to the first day of teasers from My Favorite Things! I'm so excited for you to see all of the MFT goodness coming your way over the next week!

Today we are introducing Who's That Girl May I Have This Dance? It's a fabulous new set!

I stamped the image in Memento Tuxedo Black ink, colored them with Copics and paper pieced her dress. The beautiful layered flower was made with a new Die-namics die called Fringed Perennial. The Die-namics Oval Bracket die was used for the sentiment and the Simply Scallops Medium was used for the scallops on the side. Some black twill ribbon, machine sewing and some gems finish the front.

The finished inside....

Here are the details about the upcoming release on December 6 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on December 6th from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!

The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on December 6 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.

The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.

If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on December 6 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

The Cat's Pajamas New Release Blog Hop!

2011-11-28T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there and welcome to The Cat's Pajamas Release Party Blog Hop! Everything you've seen peeked over the last week is now available at the TCP Store!

If you've arrived here from our Steph's blog then you're in the right place! If you've just happened along, then head over to Julie's blog to start from the beginning!

The Cat Pack is also combining today's hop with today's TCP Tuesday Challenge, TCPTues187. Julie is our Hostess with the Mostess and she has challenged us to create shiny embellishments on our cards! Use glossy accents, glitter, or whatever makes your cards shine!

I used the just released and fabulous, J*lly H*liday set for my card. I stamped the two sentiments (Wishing You and SNOW) in Dark Chocolate ink onto a piece of patterned paper that was cut out using the Cut Ups Circus Labels. The edges were sponged with some Ranger Tea Dye Distress Ink. The snowflakes are the pop outs from the new Cut Ups Snowflake Paper Lace die. They were covered in Dazzling Diamonds and finished with a gem. The other Cut Ups I used on the card are the FANTASTIC new Anywhere Ribbon Slide, Snowflake and Big Scallop. The threaded ribbon is Cream Seam Binding. Some machine stitching finishes the card. All of the papers are MME Lost and Found Breeze.

You next stop on the hop is to Lori's Blog!

As a Christmas gift to the TCP customers, The Cat's Pajamas will take 15% off every order through the end of November....even on the already discounted price of the Kitty Kat Pack and Poochie Pack!! Just enter the code HAPPY15 when you check out! It's an awesome deal!! Have fun shopping!

Thanks for stopping by!

Raise a Little Cane.....

2011-11-27T04:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! I'm back with another sneak peek from The Cat's Pajamas! Don't you just love what the Cat Pack has done with the peeks so far? Those girls are amazing! Today we are peeking another DARLING new bunny set called Raising Cane! I hate to sound like a broken record, but he's CUTE!!

He was stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black, was colored with Copics and was fussy cut out. I covered the white part of his Santa hat with some coarse glitter. The snowflakes are from the Snowflake Lace Paper Cut Ups die. They were covered in glitter and were finished with a red gem. Some Cream Seam Binding and machine stitching finish the card!

Here are the details about the release tomorrow night! I hope you can join us!

Thanks for stopping by!

Happy Holidays {MFTWSC47}

2011-11-25T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! I've been sorely behind with the MFT Wednesday Stamp Club Sketch Challenges so I sat down tonight to work on this week's fantastic sketch! You can find all the info on the Wednesday Stamp Club Challenges here. We'd love to have you play along!

I didn't get a chance to ink up this adorable Pure Innocence Stocking Girl image during the last release, so she was tops on my list!

I colored her with Copics and paper pieced her pj's. She was fussy cut and I finished the top of her stocking with some coarse glitter. She was popped up on a tag cut with the Die-namics Tag You're It die. If you haven't noticed, I LOVE this tag die. It's not too big and not too small...it's the perfect size and shape!

The sentiment was cut using the Die-namics Oval Tab die, another must have die IMO, and was stitched to the tag. The little tag at the top was made with the tiny tag die from the Christmas Ornaments Die-namics and Stamp set. The tag was finished with some green twill ribbon, a button and some Holiday Divine Twine. The scallops behind the tag were made with the Die-namics Simply Scallops Die. Some machine stitching and brads finish the front.

Here is a peek at the finished inside.....

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you all have a great weekend!

Happy Freezin' Season!

2011-11-24T23:51:00.000-08:00

Hi there and happy post Turkey hangover to all of my American friends! We spent the Thanksgiving Holiday with wonderful family and lots of yummy food! It was a great day!

Well, we are deep into Sneaky Peek Week from The Cat's Pajamas and today we are peeking another adorable bunny set called Freezin' Season! It's so darned cute! His bunny ears get me every time!

Told you he was cute! He was stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black, was fussy cut out and popped up for dimension. The scarf on the snowbunny was paper pieced and some adhesive gems and glitter finish them up! The layout started off as Mojo Monday sketch #216, but midway through the card I veered! But it's totally inspired by the Mojo sketch! The snowflakes were made by popping out the snowflake cutouts from the awesome new Snowflake Lace Paper Cut Ups die. Each flake was finished with a red button, and one with some new Holiday Divine Twine that will be available with this release! Some machine stitching finishes the card....

To see a list of Cat Packer's who are participating in today's peeks, head on over to Alma's blog!

Thanks for stopping by!

I HEART Snow Days!

2011-11-21T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! Today marks the first day of Sneaky Peek Week from The Cat's Pajamas! I'm so excited! We have SEVEN new sets, THREE new fabulous Cut Ups Dies and some beautiful new colors of seam binding to share with you over the next seven days! Today we are introducing another adorable bunny set called Snow Days!

Today is also TCP Tuesday so I've combined my first peek with today's inspiration challenge. Jen is our Hostess with the Mostess and she gave us this lovely picture to draw inspiration from! Isn't it pretty?

Here's my card:

I was totally inspired by the colors in Jen's inpspiration picture. I stamped the bunny in Memento Tuxedo Black, colored him with Copics, glittered up the snow/balls with Dazzling Diamonds Glitter (SU), and cut him out with Circle Nestabilities. Do you see that beautiful snowflake doily circle? That was made with the new Snowflake Lace Paper Cut Ups die. It is GORGEOUS! It was cut from Vintage Cream Cardstock. The individual snowflakes are pop outs from the Snowflake Lace Paper die. L.O.V.E. The individual snowflakes were run through my Xyron and then were covered in Dazzling Diamonds glitter to make them sparkly. Each was finished with an adhesive gem. The Big Scallop Border Cut Ups die was used on the polka dot paper. Some Cream seam binding, a rounded corner and some machine stitching finish the card! The patterned papers are from the MME Be Merry 6x6 pad.

To see how you can play along with TCP Tuesday to win some Cat's Cash, head on over to Alma's Blog! She's got the 411 on everything TCP!

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a Beary Christmas......{TCPTues185}

2011-11-18T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! Happy Weekend! I don't have any big plans this weekend, but plan to stamp stamp stamp! I'm gearing up for a fantastic new release from The Cat's Pajamas coming up on November 29th with the peeks starting this Tuesday! I can't wait to show you the new stamps and Cut Ups dies TCP will be releasing!

In the meantime, I have a card to show you that I made for this week's TCP Tuesday challenge. Leigh is our Hostess with the Mostess and she has an awesome sketch for us to play with this week!

I used one of my fave TCP sets, Big Bear. He was colored with Copics, was cut out and popped up for dimension. The Cut Ups dies I used are the gorgeous Snowflake, Pinking Border and Circus Panels. The snowflake was cut from felt and was finished with a button tied with Linen Thread (currently out of stock). I used just a portion of the Circus Panel and finished it with another button tied with Linen Thread. some machine stitching finishes the card. All of the papers are from the Jingle 6x6 pad by LilyBee Designs.

Here's the sketch:

Here are the Cut Ups dies I used:

Head on over to Alma's blog to find out all the details on the TCP Tuesday challenge and how you can play to win some Cat's Cash! We love to see your creations!

Thanks for stopping by!

MFT VIP New Product Tour ~ Pure Innocence Winter Cuties!!

2011-11-15T19:12:00.000-08:00

Hi there and welcome to the MFT New Product Tour featuring the Pure Innocence Winter Cuties VIP kit! That's right....Pure Inncocence images in the VIP kit! So exciting!

Head on over to Kim's Blog for a direct link to all of the designers!

Here's a look at the VIP Kit:

Pure Innocence Winter Cuties VIP Collection $37.95

Pure Innocence Ice Princess stamp set

Pure Innocence Holly Girl stamp set

Winter Cuties Sentiments mini (VIP exclusive stamp set - will never be offered for sale or be available again $9 value, FREE)

Oval Open Scallop Doily Die-namics Die

This is a LIMITED QUANTITY product that gives customers the opportunity to purchase upcoming stamp sets and a new Die-namics die THREE WEEKS early.

I made two cards so I'll get right to it!

For this card I used Holly Girl! She is SO CUTE! I paired her with Teresa Collins Christmas Home designer papers. The sketch is last week's Wednesday Stamp Club Sketch, MFTWSC45. The tag was cut with my favorite Tag You're It Die-namics die. The sentiment was cut with the Bracket Tab Die-namics die. The scallops were made with the Simply Scallops Die-namics die. Some machine stitching and ribbon with a button finish the card!

Here is the finished inside....

This card was made with the adorable Ice Princess! The patterned papers are from the MME The Merry Days of Christmas Pad. She was colored with Copics and her dress was paper pieced. The Die-namics I used on this card are Stacking Stars, First Place Award Ribbon and Simply Scallops medium. Some machine stitching and a linen thread tied button finish the card!

A picture of the finished inside....sorry for the blurriness!

Here are all the Die-namics I used on my card:

Thanks for stopping by!

Verve After Party!

2011-11-14T03:00:00.000-08:00

Were you able to party it up with the Diva's on Friday night at the Verve release party? Well, if you weren't able to be there, you can join us right now at the Verve After Party here and on the Verve Blog! All the Diva's are back to day to share with you our favorite project from the release! So sit back, relax and prepare to be inspired.....

Surprise Surprise! I made another set of tags! This is my favorite time of year to make tags! They finish off a package just perfectly! I also couldn't resist Rudy, the adorable reindeer, from the new Verve set, Santa's Helper. He's fun and EASY to color and is too darned cute.

I colored him with Copics, cut him out and popped him up for dimension. The Kraft tags were embossed with a snowflake embossing folder. The frame was cut using the Rounded Scallop Frame die from Verve. I cut it two times.....from the striped paper and the snowflake paper. The frame itself was popped up for dimension. A little sentiment flag, a snowflake ghost shape and a button tied with linen thread finish the tags! All of the patterned papers are from the LilyBee Designs Jingle Tiny Tablet.

Well that's all from me today! I hope you all have a great week!

Verve Final Holiday Spotlight Hop!

2011-11-12T06:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our final Holiday Spotlight Hop! Last night we released 2 new stamp sets, 5 plain janes and 6 dies to coordinate with new and old Verve holiday sets! All of the new products we've been showcasing this week are available now in the Verve store! Be sure to leave a little comment love as you take one last stroll through the Diva and Guest Diva blogs. One lucky commenter from today's hop will win the ENTIRE Release! Check out the Verve Blog today for all the prize details and deadlines.

Were you able to join us last night for the Verve release party last night? It was a ton of fun! I always enjoy chatting with my paper crafting friends! Anywho...onto my card!

I used the just released set, Bright Spirits for my card. I paired this set with the awesome Mojo Monday sketch from this week. I will definitely be using this sketch again!

I have been ~~hoarding~~ saving the new My Mind's Eye Signature Christmas for awhile because I was afraid to cut into all of the beautimous papers, but took the leap for this card. Aren't the blues so soothing? The sentiment was stamped in Dark Chocolate ink and was cut out with the Curvy Bookplate die. I lightly sponged the edges with some Tea Dye Distress Ink. The poinsettia/snowflakes were stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black and were colored with Copic markers. Some machine stitching and adhesive pearls finish the card!

1. Julee	8. Sankari
2. Andrea	9. Teresa
3. Vickie {Guest}	10. Charmaine
4. Amy	11. Tosha
5. Maureen	12. Wanda {Guest}
6. Laurie	13. Jackie
7. Gretchen {Guest}

I hope you enjoyed this release as much as I did! Hope you all have a great weekend!

Verve Holiday Release Spotlight ~ Day 3!

2011-11-11T06:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our Holiday Spotlight Hops! Hop along with the Divas over the next few days as we share our first looks at a few of the new products releasing from Verve this Friday night! One lucky commenter from each day's hop will win the sets and dies featured that day, so be sure and leave a little love in the Divasphere! Check out the Verve Blog today for all the prize details and deadlines.

Today we are spotlighting the cutest new set, Santa's Helper, plus the Snowflake Tidings Die set, Frosty Snowflakes die set and Lovely Marquee die.

I paired today's peek with this week's Viva la Verve sketch. I am this week's host and I have a fun sketch for you to play with! You can find all the details for this week's sketch here!

Isn't this reindeer ADORABLE? I literally gasped when I saw him! He was colored with Copic markers, was fussy cut out and popped up for dimension. See those two little shapes peeking out from behind the striped panel? Those were cut the new Lovely Marquee die. It's such a pretty shape! Some machine stitching and a rounded corner finish the card. All of the patterned papers are from the LilyBee Design Jingle 6x6 pad.

1. Julee	8. Sankari
2. Andrea	9. Teresa
3. Vickie {Guest}	10. Charmaine
4. Amy	11. Tosha
5. Maureen	12. Wanda {Guest}
6. Laurie	13. Jackie
7. Gretchen {Guest}

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you have a great day!

Black Friday Sale at The Cat's Pajamas!

2011-11-10T20:20:00.000-08:00

A note from Alma (owner of The Cat's Pajamas) regarding the sale:

I do love a SALE. And I've been told that you love them, too. Especially, around the Holidays.

So, I decided that we should have one. But, then The Cat Pack thought that, a couple would be even better. And, I concurred.

So, this Friday, everything on the website, (except the KittyKat Pack and Poochie Pack) will be 20% OFF. And what the heck, every Friday in November, too.

Remember, the SALE is only on Fridays and limited to stock in hand, so start making your list now. And check it twice. Just like Santa.

Verve Holiday Release Spotlight ~ Day 2

2011-11-10T06:04:00.000-08:00

Today we are introducing Bright Spirits, Winter Tree PJ, Winter Fun Die Set and Love Birds Die Set!

I couldn't resist making a set of Christmas tags......

These are the first three in a set of six tags I made using Bright Spirits and the coordinating Winter Fun dies and Love Bird dies! Fun, aren't they? I love to simply wrap my presents and then add a fun tag. The papers are from the Authentique Wonder collection. The green gingham paper was cut with the Classy Label Die. They were finished with some rope twine and adhesive gems.

Here are the other three, using the same patterned papers. I just LOVE LOVE LOVE the fonts on the sentiments from Bright Spirits!

Well, that's all from me today! Thanks for stopping by!

Here is a list of Diva's for today's hop!

1. Julee	8. Andrea
2. Jackie	9. Vickie {Guest}
3. Teresa	10. Amy
4. Charmaine	11. Laurie
5. Maureen	12. Gretchen {Guest}
6. Tosha	13. Sankari
7. Wanda {Guest}

Believe....in the magic of Christmas

2011-11-07T21:00:00.000-08:00

It's time for the November Creative Challenge from My Favorite Things. This month's challenge was to do a vintage styled card or project. I don't do vintage, if you know my clean style, but I love the vintage look so I was all over this challenge! But before I get to my card, here's a little from MFT:

In 2011, MFT is working harder than ever to inspire you, and we have come up with something we think you'll really enjoy. Our Design Team Creative Challenge is a new monthly feature, where we challenge our design team to explore their creative side using a specific theme, product or technique. This month, we're exploring the lush vintage style. Please visit the MFT Blog to see exactly what we've been up to, you'll find a full list of designers that have taken up the challenge!

Believe in the magic of Christmas:

I started with the new gorgeous set, Inspired by Christmas. The Santa was stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black ink onto a piece of patterned paper from the MME Lost and Found Christmas pad. He was colored with Copics and was cut out with Circle Nestabilities. He was layered on a Decorative Doily Duo (the larger of the two) cut from Scarlet Jewel cardstock. I heavily distressed the patterned paper, curling the edges of one corner. Each layer was machine stitched. The Faux Crochet Border die was used on the horizontal strip of striped paper. A vintage button tied with some linen thread and a sentiment flag finish the front.

Here is a picture of the finished inside.....

Well, that's all from me today! I hope you're all having a great week! Don't forget to let your loved ones know how special they are....

I Heart U So Much.....

2011-11-06T22:17:00.000-08:00

Exciting things are happening with Verve this week! We are gearing up for a new release this Friday with some amazing new sets and dies that you won't want to miss! All of the fun starts on Wednesday on the Verve Blog! And to top it off, Verve is sponsoring this month's Sketch For You To Try from Jen del Muro! I HAD to find time to play this weekend because Jen always has great sketches! You'll notice that I flipped my sketch on it's side! I'm a rebel like that......LOL

I used the I Heart U die set paired with a sentiment from You and I. The letters and heart were cut from Terracotta Tile and Vintage Cream felt. I stamped the sentiment in Memento Tuxedo Black. A button tied with Linen Thread and some machine stitching finish the card! Easy Peasy! All of the papers are from the MME Six By Six Honey Cake pad.

Well, that's all from me today! Thanks for stopping by!

Define Good {TCPTues183}

2011-11-04T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there! I'm so happy it's the weekend! Things have been a bit crazy around here! My brother and his wife had their first baby last Saturday! They had a little boy and named him David James. He's adorable and has a head FULL of thick black hair! On Sunday my Mom (who had not been feeling 100% all week) was diagnosed with Shingles. She was so worried because she didn't feel sick but was more in pain and had held the baby on Saturday. Needless to say, she is pretty heartbroken she can't be around the baby......and is also hoping he doesn't get the Chicken Pox from her.

I've also been PURGING and reorganizing my craft area. I had so much stuff that went unused and it felt good to get it outta here! I feel like a weight has been lifted and am feeling more like creating than I had been! So I'll shut my yapper and get to why you're actually here!

I made this card for this week's TCP Tuesday Challenge! Lori is our Hostess with the Mostess and she challenged us to make a card using the colors Red, Marigold and Chocolate. I cringed when I first saw the combo, but had fun while making the card!

I used the darling set from The Cat's Pajamas, Define Good. I bought this set before I joined The Cat Pack and sadly it had never seen ink until now! I love the ears on this cute bunny!

He was colored with Copic markers, was fussy cut out and was popped up for dimension. The furry part of his Santa hat was glittered up with some Martha Stewart Chunky glitter. The sentiment was cut out with the oval die from the Cut Ups Circus Panels. I also used the Big Scallop Cut Ups die on the bottom. The corners were rounded with my Corner Chomper. Some machine stitching and a Cherry Divine Twine tied button finish the card!

Head on over to Alma's blog to find out all the details about the TCP Tuesday Challenge and how you can play along to win some Cat's Cash! We love to see your creations!

Thanks for stopping by!

Merry Christmas!

2011-11-01T19:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there and welcome to the My Favorite Things New Product Tour! All of the new stamp sets and Die-namics you've seen over the last seven days are now available for purchase in the MFT Boutique! But before you head off to place your order why not stick around to get some more inspiration from those sets you've got your eye on!

Head on over to Kim's Blog for a link to each designer!

Merry Christmas:

Remember these tags that I made yesterday? Well, I made a card to go along with them using the new Christmas Ornaments Die-namics and Stamp set.

The rest of Die-namics I used on my card are as follows: Vintage Cameo Frame, Icicle Border and By the Numbers. I embossed the Fossil cardstock layer with an embossing folder. I used Maraschino Red Twine tied with a button. A rounded corner, some machine stitching and adhesive gems finish the card. The papers are Authentique Wonder.

That's all from me tonight! Happy Shopping!

Merry Christmas Tags!

2011-10-31T21:00:00.000-07:00

Now that we've teased and tempted you all week long, it's almost time for you to shop for your favorite Brand Spankin' New products from MFT.

But first... it's time for our Die-namics Feature and Pre-Release Pep Rally!

Our Design Team has been busy creating jaw-dropping and inspiring projects for you, and we've saved the best for last.

We've taken an in-depth look at this month's Die-namics, while re-visiting the amazing sets being released tonight at 10 PM EST RIGHT HERE in the MFT Boutique.

And while we are at it, how about we make your life even easier with a "cheat sheet" of all that's new? Head over to the MFT Blog to print out a shopping list.

Merry Christmas Tags:

I love this day as it's so fun to show you how AWESOME the Die-namics dies are! I LOVE how you can coordinate the dies to make perfect projects! Case in point....my tags today! I used FIVE different dies to create my Christmas tags!

I started by cutting five tags using the Tag You're It Die-namics from Fossil cardstock. They were embossed with an embossing folder using my cuttlebug.

I then cut out the gingham paper using the new Vintage Cameo Frame Die-namics die. I LOVE that you don't have to use this die with the stamp set....totally stands on it's own beautiful feet! LOL! I used the same Vintage Cameo Frame to cut the ivory oval center. The snowflakes were stamped with a snowflake image from the new Christmas Ornaments set and were cut out using the Christmas Ornaments Die-namics dies. While I had the stamp set out, I stamped the Merry Christmas on each oval and then stamped a sunburst image from the same set on the oval in Versamark ink. It's barely there, but just enough to make the paper not look too plain! The numbers were cut out using the By the Numbers dies.

Each tag was finished with a teeny tag from Christmas Ornaments and was tied with some Maraschino Red Twine and a button.

Whew!!!

Here are the details about the upcoming release on November 1 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on November 1st from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on November 1 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
You have just a few more hours to submit your entry for this month's guest designer contest. Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the designers' posts for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on November 1 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

Miss You Like Crazy.....

2011-10-30T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there! Today is the sixth day of teasers from My Favorite Things and it's my favorite day! It's Pure Innocence day! Today we're introducing SEVEN new Pure Innocence images! I WISH I had a sample using each adorable set, but I don't! LOL! I have a card to share that uses the new Chrysanthemum PI!

Miss You Like Crazy:

Isn't she cute? I colored her with Copics, paper piecing her dress. The sentiment was masked and then cut using the First Place Award Ribbon die. The new Crown Border die was used on the bottom of the card. I filled in each hole with an adhesive pearl. Some rounded corners and machine stitching finish the card. All of the patterned paper is from MME Lost and Found Breeze 6x6 pad.

The finished inside.....

Here are the details about the upcoming release on November 1 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on November 1st from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on November 1 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on November 1 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thank you for stopping by!

Sending Warm Fuzzies!

2011-10-29T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! We are up to day FIVE of teasers from My Favorite Things and today is one of my favorite teaser days: The à la Modes! We are introducing two new à la Modes today.....Knit Happens and Disco Queen! They are such fun sets!

Sending Warm Fuzzies:

I used the new Knit Happens. She was colored with Copics, was fussy cut out and popped up for dimension on a Tag You're It die cut from patterned paper. The sentiment was cut out with the Bracket Die and was sewn to the side of the tag. It was finished with some twill tape tied with a linen thread bow. The border was made with the new Crown Border die. I finished each hole with a gem. Some machine stitching finishes the card. The patterned paper is October Afternoon Sidewalks dp.

The finished inside.....

Here are the details about the upcoming release on November 1 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on November 1st from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on November 1 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on November 1 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

MFTeasers Day Two!

2011-10-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there and welcome back to the second day of teasers from My Favorite Things! Today we are introducing Inspired By Christmas and Fred Bear Catches some ZZZ's.

Sorry I Wasn't There For You:

Doesn't Fred look so relaxed? I love the little mouse, too! Fred was colored with Copics. I tried, although not too successfully, to add grass underneath him. The sentiment was cut out with the Say What Die-namics die. The sketch is the Sketch For You To Try for October. I flipped the sketch to accomodate Fred. Some rounded corners and machine stitching finish the card. All the patterned papers are from the MME Six By Six All Spice 6x6 pad.

The finished inside.....

Here are the details about the upcoming release on November 1 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on November 1st from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!
The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on November 1 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.
The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.
If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on November 1 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

Way To Go! {MFTWSC43}

2011-10-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there! It's Wednesday and time for another Wednesday Stamp Club Challenge from My Favorite Things! We have a GREAT sketch for you this week, so I hope you're able to play along!

I have a small stack of MFT stamps that have never seen ink (I know...the horror) and decided to use this darling All Star à la Mode. She was colored with Copics and her banner was paper pieced. I used a portion of one of the sentiments and stamped the #1 in Memento Tuxedo Black ink. The sentiment was cut out using the Die-namics File Tab die. I used Joanne's tutorial to shorten the length of the paper to fit the smaller sentiment! Some Stacking Stars Dies finished with linen thread and machine stitching finish the card!

The finished inside....

The sketch......

We'd love to have you play along! To see a list of participating designers for today's sketch just head on over to Kim's Blog! Then head on over to the MFT forum at SCS and upload your sketch card using the keyword MFTWSC43. You could be the winner of a $15 voucher to spend at the store! ($20 if you use MFT stamps).

Thanks for stopping by!

MFTeasers Day One!

2011-10-25T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there! It's the first day of teasers from My Favorite Things and I'm so excited for you to see what's in store this week! Today we're introducing the newest Who's That Girl set, Who's That Girl Gets Cozy With Cocoa. You may have seen this set during the VIP New Product Tour, but if not, you're in for a treat!

Also one more thing before I get to my card! After many customer requests My Favorite Things will be offering *MOST* of the Die-namics from the Die-namics/Stamp Set combos separately! Now you will have the option of buying the stamp set/die-namics combo or just the dies on their own! They will be available beginning November 1st at 10 PM EST!

Great Friends, Good Times, Warm Hearts:

I stamped the image in Memento Tuxedo Black and colored with Copic markers, paper piecing the scarf. It was cut out with Circle Nestabilities and was layered on an Open Scallop Doily Duo. The sentiment was masked and stamped three times on the awesome new Die-namics Clearly Sentimental Label. I just cut off the end portion to fit the sentiments. I also used some Puff Cloud White Felt from MFT using the new Die-namics Icicle Border die. You can see it at the bottom of my card. Some machine stitching and ivory linen thread finish the card!

Here's a picture of the finished inside.....

Here are the details about the upcoming release on November 1 at 10 PM EST:

You can attend the New Release Party on November 1st from 8-10 PM EST HERE in the MFT forum, where you can enjoy fun, games, and PRIZES!

The MFT release, including all new stamp sets and Die-namics, is on November 1 at 10 PM EST. You'll find all the newest products HERE at release time.

The guest designer contest is ON! Check out the forum for details on how YOU can win $200 in stamp sets and Die-namics, and play along with the MFT Design Team for a month.

If you'd like to see all the teasers for today, please click on over to the MFT Blog NOW. Be sure to leave comments as you go for the chance to win one of 2, $10 gift certificates given away daily. The winners will be posted on November 1 just before the release party, on the MFT blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

Oh Boy! {VLVOct2011}

2011-10-22T14:54:00.000-07:00

Hi there and happy Saturday! I hope you're all having a great weekend! We're just hanging out today all tired from a sleepover last night that involved four 12 year old girls! I'm happy to say we survived but we're all a bit tired and maybe a bit cranky.......

I have a card to show you today that I made yesterday for this week's Viva la Verve sketch over in the Verve forums on SCS! Charmaine is our host this week and she gave us a wonderful sketch to work with. I did go a bit rebel by making the circle a square though.

My youngest brother and his wife are expecting a baby SOON.....next week to be exact, and we are all very excited! I made this card to give to them once my nephew, David, is born! I feel so organized having a card done BEFORE hand! HA!

I used one of my fave Verve sets of all time, To the Moon. The bear was colored with Copics, was cut out and popped up over the frame. I tied the kites to his arm with some Brown Sugar Divine Twine. The card was finished with some buttons, adhesive pearls, some lace and machine stitching!

We'd love to have you play along! If you complete all the sketches for October, you'll be entered to win a Verve gift certificate! You can see all the challenge details here!

Well, that's all from me today! Thank you all so much for stopping by!

Sweet Friend Of Mine {MFTWSC42}

2011-10-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there! It's Wednesday and time for the My Favorite Things Wednesday Stamp Club Challenge! We have a terrific sketch for you this week so I hope you'll play along!

I veered from the sketch just a tad to fit my main image. I used the just released Pure Innocence image, Calendula, for my card. She was colored with Copics, was fussy cut out and popped up for dimension. The frame she is on was cut using the Die-namics First Class Friend die. The sentiment was cut out with the Die-namics Bracket Tab die. Some machine stitching finishes the card. The patterned papers I used are from the MME Six by Six Honey Cake pad.

We'd love to have you play along! To see a list of participating designers for today's sketch just head on over to Kim's Blog! Then head on over to the MFT forum at SCS and upload your sketch card using the keyword MFTWSC34. You could be the winner of a $15 voucher to spend at the store! ($20 if you use MFT stamps).

Thanks for stopping by!

MFT Who's That Girl VIP New Product Tour!

2011-10-18T19:01:00.000-07:00

Hi there and welcome to the My Favorite Things Who's That Girl VIP New Product Tour! The November VIP Kit is called Who's That Girl Gets Cozy with Cocoa! It's a fabulous kit with a FANTASTIC new Die-namics Loopy Bloom Die!

Head on over to Kim's Blog for a direct link to all of the designers!

I stamped WTG in Memento Tuxedo Black, colored her with Copics and paper pieced her scarf. She was cut out with Circle Nestabilities and was layered on a Die-namics Open Scallop Doily Duo (the larger of the two) cut from Fossil cardstock. Do you see those blooms? SQUEAL!! They were made with the new Die-namics Loopy Blooms die included in the kit! My blooms were cut from red felt and came together in no time! I LOVE this new die! Some sentiment flags made with the Die-namics First Place award Ribbon and some machine stitching finish the card! The patterned papers are from the Cosmo Cricket Jolly By Golly 6x6 pad.

Who's that Girl Gets Cozy with Cocoa VIP Collection $29.90

~Who's that Girl Gets Cozy with Cocoa stamp set

~Cozy with Cocoa Sentiments mini (VIP exclusive stamp set - will never be offered for sale or be available again $9 value, FREE)

~Loopy Bloom Die-namics Die

This month's VIP kit is a limited in quantity product (not a one day product.....available only until it sells out) that gives customers the opportunity to purchase the newest WTG set three weeks early!

That's all from me tonight! Thanks for stopping by!

Viva la Verve Just Because!

2011-10-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there and Happy Friday! I'm happy it's almost the weekend! We don't have many plans this weekend, just hanging out at the in-laws tomorrow and football on Sunday! Oh, and maybe I'll sneak in a couple cards!

I sat down this morning to make a card for today's Viva la Verve sketch! Maureen is our host this week and she has a fantastic sketch for you to play with! I tweaked it just a bit by making my card a square, but I pretty much stuck to the original sketch!

I pulled out Great Friend (one of my fave Verve sets and it's ON SALE) because it had been awhile since I'd used it. The flowers were paper pieced. I cut out each layer of flower and popped it up on foam tape for dimension. Each flower was finished with a decorative brad. The sentiment was cut out with an oval tab die from MFT. The ribbon is some gorgeous seam binding from The Cat's Pajamas. A little machine stitching finishes the card.

Here is the sketch:

We'd love to have you play along! If you complete all the sketches for October, you'll be entered to win a Verve gift certificate! You can see all the challenge details here!

Thanks for stopping by!

Swimming For Katie Blog Hop Day #!

2011-10-11T21:03:00.000-07:00

Hi there everyone! I am so proud to be participating in the Swimming For Katie Renz blog hop and fundraiser! Today is the final day of blog hops so I hope you'll take the time to hop around to see what everyone has made using this image created just for Katie!

From October 10-12 some of the best stampers are joining together to support and encourage our friend and fellow stamper, Katie Renz, who is currently battling inoperable gastric cancer. If you're not familiar with her, Katie’s cancer story started just before Christmas last year. This young, beautiful, healthy, vibrant mother of 3 with her infectious smile was suddenly diagnosed with an inoperable cancer, virtually overnight. A few tummy aches and then stage 4 gastric cancer. Her first post about it is here. The idea of “Swimming for Katie” came from her recent post here.

This exclusive stamp used in my sample, designed by Becky Oehlers is available as a clear stamp, as well as a digis or a dig and SVG cut file. 100% of the profits go to Katie's fund to help her and her young family. Her husband Kevin and her three young children need our help and support. In addition to the Keep Swimming Octopus, Marianne Walker and True =D Doodle Designs both also donated digis that are for sale. Direct donations are also being accepted. Information central is HERE. This is a permanent page that will stay active at i {heart} papers with current information and the full 3 day blog hop listing, as well as the donation button.

I LOVE how the stamping community comes together when someone is in need. You see, I don't personally know Katie....I know her as a stamper, a great one, and I know about her battle with Cancer and about her family through her blog. I pray for Katie everyday....I pray that she will get better so she can stand beside her husband and watch her kids grow. It's so hard to see anyone, especially a Mom, deal with so much. So here I am.....doing just a small part to raise money for such a GREAT cause. So if you're the praying type, pray for Katie. I know she can use all our prayers in her fight.

I hope you will join me in supporting Katie through a purchase or donation. The following is a list of everyone who has projects posted today. I hope you will be inspired by them and moved to purchase or donate. If you would like to send Katie a card, her mailing address is:

Katie Renz

PO Box 5913

Bellingham, WA 98227-5913

Today's Participants:

Amy Heller
Jackie Pedro
Julie Masse
Kecia Waters
Sandie Dunne
Susan Liles
Latisha Yoast
Laurie Schmidlin
Lisa Arana
Lisa Henke
Lisa Silver
Lydia Fiedler
Lyn Bernatovich
Lynette
Maria Gurnsey
Meg Craig
Melissa Bickford
Michelle Woerner
Mona Pendleton
Niki Estes
Robyn Weatherspoon
Sarah Jay
Sarah Martina Parker
Savannah O'Gwynn
Stephanie Washburn
Susanna Boyd
Tobi Crawford
Julie Lacey
Kim Kesti
Shemaine Smith
Danielle Lounds
Debbie Carriere
DoBea A.
Fran Gumprech
Geny Cassady
Gina K.
Holly McMillen
Jak Heath
Javablustamper/Jacquie
Kimberly Crawford
Jeanne Streiff
Trudy Sjolander

Thanks for stopping by!

MFT October Creative Challenge ~ Be Negative!

2011-10-10T21:00:00.001-07:00

Hi there! It's time for the MFT Design Team Creative Challenge for October! This month's challenge was truly a challenge for me!! HA! But before I get to my card, here is a little info on today's challenge:

In 2011, MFT is working harder than ever to inspire you, and we have come up with something we think you'll really enjoy. Our Design Team Creative Challenge is a new monthly feature, where we challenge our design team to explore their creative side using a specific theme, product or technique. This month, we're going to "be negative." Our designers will show you what you can do with the negative space after you cut out your Die-namics, or the other half of patterned paper, cardstock or felt that is leftover when you're done with your Die-namics! Visit Kim's Blog to see exactly what we've been up to, you'll find a full list of designers that have taken up the challenge!

Thankful For You:

For my card I used one of the newest à la modes: Sweetest Pumpkin in the Patch. She was colored with Copics. See the scalloped frame surrounding her? That's where the challenge came in! I cut out an Oval Decorative Doily from the patterned paper and used the negative to frame the à la mode. I saved the Oval Decorative Doily that I cut out for another project. Fun! The flowers were made with the Prima Donna Die-namics. A sentiment flag, cut using the First Place Award Winning Ribbon die and some machine stitching finish the card!

Thanks for stopping by!

The Cat's Pajamas Release Blog Hop!

2011-10-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there and welcome to The Cat's Pajamas Release Party Blog Hop! Every stamp set and Cut Ups die you've seen peeked over the last week is now available at the TCP store!

The Cat Pack is also combining this blog hop with today's TCP Tuesday challenge, TCPTues180!! If you arrived here from Maggie's blog then you're in the right place! If you've just happened along then head on over to Leigh's Blog to start from the beginning!

Leigh is our Hostess with the Mostess and she has given us a FABULOUS sketch to work with! I'll quit chatting and get right to it!

Told you it was a great sketch! I used the new set Clownin' Around for my card. I just love these adorable penguins! The papers are from the October Afternoon Sidewalks 8x8 pad. It was hard cutting into these papers! LOL! I {L.O.V.E} them!

The penguin was colored with Copics, fussy cut out and popped up for dimension. His balloon was paper pieced. I used Star Nestabilities to cut out the star and the Cut Ups Easy Rosette die to cut out the sentiment. Some machine stitching finishes the card!

Your next stop on this hop is to Lori's Blog! I know she has some fantastic eye candy for you!

Thanks for stopping by!

TCP Sneaky Peek ~ Presto!

2011-10-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there! I'm back today with another sneaky peek from The Cat's Pajamas! Today we're giving you peeks of another adorable bunny set called Presto! I LOVE the sentiments in this set, too!

To see a full list of Cat Packers participating today, just head on over to Alma's Blog!

I went black and white with just a touch of blue. The bunny was colored with Copic Markers. And let me take a moment to tell you how much I love the new Cut Ups Circus Panels. There are three dies that layer together or can be used on their own. I layered two of them here with the sentiment. I cut another of the Circus Panels from True Black cardstock, cut it in half and embossed it with a Seeing Spots Embossing Folder. I got his idea from my fellow brilliant Cat Packer, Amy Rohl. That girl is full of ideas! Anywho....I used the new Cut Ups Circus Border down the left side of my card. Some black machine stitching and a button tied with Black Licorice Divine Twine finishes my card!

Want to win something?! All you have to do is comment on this thread. It can be about anything. The Sneaky Peeks, techniques you like to use, some you'd like to see, the weather. Anything you want.

Then each day during Sneaky Peek Week, starting on Tuesday, October 4, we'll randomly choose a winner from the comments on this thread. The winner will win the set that we are Sneaky Peeking that day.

And all you have to do to win is comment! The more comments the better. Easy Peasy. We'll announce the winner each day on the Sneaky Peek thread, and the winner has one week to PM me.

Thanks for stopping by!