Crafty Thursday #15: One Sheet Wonder! Featuring the New Online Exclusive Flowering Zinnia Suite

 

MARCH 2024 HOST CODE: T9DBMCCP

Hello Crafting Friends!

It's been quite the day around here, with waiting on the big snowstorm to hit Denver. Thankfully, the hubby and I headed out yesterday and got on some staples. I made a nice crock pot full of sauce and meatballs (pictured on my Instagram) before I got started creating my 12 inch x 12 inch One Sheet Wonder. I think it's a tad unique, if I do say so myself. 😉

I've been waiting to get into this suite...as of today, it's unavailable, but fear not! It WILL be back in stock because it's a hot seller! (ETA, end of April: Designer Series Paper is currently available, as of this post) The Online Exclusive Flowering Zinnia Suite has everything to make spectacular cards! I'll show you a few others I made below. Let me show you what I created with this suite!

I don't know why, but I'm a bit obsessed with Slimline Cards, and the minute I saw this paper, I knew I had to make some! I will link all products used at the end of the post. I'm hoping to get a companion video up on Friday (or later tonight) on my Facebook and You Tube pages to demonstrate exactly how I cut the Designer Series Paper. There's very little waste, which is what I was aiming for...who wants to waste such gorgeous paper?! I used the sheet featured in the Stampin' Up! stock photo. It was designed to make cards with little waste. I've already seen many beautiful samples online. But, I think I came up with a fun and unique pattern...

I had the dimensions for a normal sized Slimline Card, but I wanted to be able to use as much of the pattern on the sheet as I could. It wasn't quite high enough to make the 9 inch long version, so I made a 6 1/2 in one! It will still fit in a standard business sized envelope. As you can see, I got to work cutting up the card stock, then I turned to the 12 x 12 Designer Series Paper. I had to use math *shudder* but I survived. The way my OSW goes, you get a total of SIX cards, three of the Short Slimline Cards, as I'm calling them, and 3 standard A2 cards. The cutting is a little unusual, which I why I will try to get that video up. I will explain it as best I can:

~ Start with your 12 x 12 sheet with the patterns to the left and right of the cutting blade. You will be cutting on the white space with this particular paper. 

~ Cut at 5 1/2. You'll have 2 12 inch long sheets, one at 5 1/2 inch high and the other at 6 1/2 inch high. Set aside the taller one.

~ Cutting with the white space of the12 inch side across the top of the trimmer, slice this piece into 4 inch panels. These will be the front panels of the three A2 cards.

~ Take the taller piece, again with the white space of the 12 inch side across the top of the trimmer. Cut this into 3 1/2 inch panels. There will be one 1 1/2 inch piece left over. Cut this into three 1/2 inch strips. These will be the front panels and decorative strip of the Short Slimline cards.

To cut the A2 card bases:

~ Using 8 1/2 x 11 in card stock, cut in half on the 11 inch side at 5 1/2 inches. Score @4 1/4 inches.

To cut the Short Slimline Cards:

~ Using 8 1/2 x 11 in card stock, on the 11 inch side, cut at 7 1/2 inches.

~ Rotate the card stock and cut at 6 1/2 inches.

~ Rotate back to the 7 1/2 inch side and score @ 3 3/4 inches.

Other supplies needed are:

* Stamp set of choice

* Die cut or punched shape for your focal image

* Coordinating ink

* #6 envelopes for the Short Slimline Cards (link to envelopes.com I am not an affiliat 

You will also need some panels of Basic White for the inside of the cards; 4" x 5 1/4" for the A2 cards and 3 1/4"x 6 1/4" for the Short Slimline Cards.

To assemble the cards:

~ Fold on the score line, "bump" side to the inside. 

Burnish with your bone folder. 

~ Add the inside panel with adhesive of choice (stamp first, if desired)

   ~ A2 card: add the front panel, centering so there is 1/4" border on either side of panel. You will have to trim off a scant amount from the top or bottom, depending on how you want your image. Attach to all 3 bases and let dry (if using liquid glue) before trimming the extra. 

   ~Short Slimline card: add the front panel, centering for a 1/4" border around whole panel

~ Add your focal image/sentiment and any embellishments.

I'd love to see your cards using this One Sheet Wonder! You can post them on my Facebook page, in the comments under the corresponding post to this blog entry.

Here are the ones I made using the Flowering Zinnia Designer Series Paper and some using the Perennial Lavender Designer Series Paper. 

Thank you so much for stopping in! I hope you create some beautiful cards this week and bless others!

Barbara 

*any links provided are for my online store through Stampin' Up! I earn a commission on any sales from those links.

*Please use the March 2024 Host Code at the top of the post when ordering. This helps me earn products to show you! If your order is above $150 in product, don't use the code, as you will enjoy your own rewards! 

*If you're interested in joining Stampin' Up! as a demonstrator or as a discount shopper, you'll get $125 worth of products of your choice in your Starter Kit for only $99!. Email me for details!

Products I used in my examples:

Stampin Up! Colored Card stock, Petal Pink 146985 and Garden Green 102584 (Annual Catalog, pg 122-123)

Heartfelt Hexagon Punch 162888 (Jan-Apr 2024 Mini Catalog, pg 12)

Nested Essentials Dies 161597 (Annual Catalog, pg 165)

Perennial Postage stamp set 162598 (Jan- Apr 2024 Mini Catalog, pg 25)

Perennial Lavender 12" x 12" Designer Series Paper 162593 (Jan-Apr 2024 Mini Catalog, pg 23, linked above)

Flowering Zinnia 12" x 12" Designer Series Paper 163469 (Online Exclusive, linked above)

Sweet Sorbet 1/4" Bordered Ribbon 162558 (Jan-Apr Mini Catalog, pg 9)

White 3/4" Frayed Ribbon CLEARANCE ITEM!!! 158138

Adhesive Backed Shiny Sequins 163484 (Online Exclusive)

Brushed Brass Butterflies 158136 (Online Exclusive)

Iridescent Rhinestones Basic Jewels 158130 (Annual Catalog, pg 140)

Classic Stampin' Pads, Garden Green 147089, Early Espresso 147114, Petal Pink 147108, Flirty Flamingo 147052, Berry Burst 147143 (Annual Catalog, pgs 122-123)

Saturday Afternoon Crafting #1

Hello Crafty Crew! 

So sorry about my Thursday post...I'm having a hard time getting a short video made for the heat embossing technique to add to my post. I will get to it, I promise!

In the mean time, I had a nice afternoon working on some cards to share with you. The original design is from my great team leader, Stamp With Lorraine's You Tube page. 

All products used are linked under the pictures.

 

Smoky Slate card base, 8 1/2 in x 5 1/2 in., score @ 4 1/4 in

Crumb Cake embossed strip, 1 in x 4 in, sentiment strip approx 1/4 in x 3 in

Early Espresso Ink Pad (used on all 3 cards)

Nature's Sweetness 12 in x 12 in Designer Series Paper, 3 in x 5 1/2 in

Floral image cut from Nature's Sweetness DSP

Softly Said stamp set (used on all 3 cards)

Basics 3D Embossing Folders, set of 3 (used on all 3 cards)

Blooming Pearls embellishments

Smoky Slate and Crumb Cake Card Stock available in Neutrals Card Stock Pack

(used on all 3 cards)

Crumb Cake card base, 8 1/2 in x 5 1/2 in, scored @ 4 1/4 in and embosssed strip, 1 in x 4 in

Hello Irresistible 6 in x 6 in Designer Series Paper, 3 in x 5 1/2 in and a small coordinating piece, 2 in x 2 1/2 in

Flowers cut from Hello Irresistible DSP

 Paper Pumpkin Leaf Die 

Blooming Pearls embellishment

Crumb Cake card base, 8 1/2 in x 5 1/2 in, scored @ 4 1/4 in, embossed strip 1 in x 4 in

Trusty Toolbox Designer Series Paper. a Sale-A-Bration $50 level reward choice

Hexagon embellishments, retired

I also made 2 slim line cards, which I think will be the subject of another post 😉 Here's a shot of all of them together

   

It's the final few weeks (through Feb 29) of Sale-A-Bration, and Stampin' Up! added some other fun rewards! If you have a wish list of $50 in product, you qualify for some great choices! If you have a wish list of $100 or more, you have even MORE choices! If you decide to shop, please use my February Host Code*, below 🠟

I appreciate you coming by, reading, commenting, etc. Don't forget to follow this blog and my other social media, all under Stampinopolous. 

Thanks!

Blessings,

Barb 

FEBRUARY 2024 HOST CODE: YH7YXNSK

*What is a Host Code?
A Host Code is how the "host" of the stamp class/demonstration earns products from purchases. When you shop for products I am demonstrating, I act as the host. By using the Host Code (you add it as you order) you help me earn products.
YOU can earn products, too, if you'd like to host a demonstration! YES, you can do a virtual demonstration! Message me for details!
If your order is $150 in product, you don't add the host code, as you will earn your own Stampin' Rewards!
Stampin' Up! LOVES their customers and their demonstrators...and who doesn't love free stuff! ;-)

REPLAY Facebook LIVE 2.9.2024 Valentine Cards

Card measurements for all 3 versions:

Card base: 8.5 in x 5.5 in, scored at 4 1/4 in

Inside layer: 5 1/4 in x 4 1/4 in

The elegant card version has a red mat layer outside, which is 5 in x 4 in.

Designer series paper: 6 in x 6 in piece cut at 3 3/4 in. You will use both pieces. To make the 2 bee cards, cut 1 in from the 3 3/4 in DSP at the bottom. This makes the 1 in strip to put across the front. To see this demonstrated, please see the Stampin' Peace with Mary Knabe video HERE. She uses a winter paper, but the technique works on ALL DSP! 

Please share if you made these cards, either for Valentine's Day or any other card!

Thanks!

Barb 

Crafty Thursday #13: Dry Embossing

*FEBRUARY 2024 HOST CODE: YH7YXNSK

Hello Crafty Crew!

There are a few ways to achieve texture on your cards. Adding elements such as ribbon, embellishments like rhinestones or pearls, layering papers or vellum. All of these are fun and add lots of pizzaz to a card.

Let's discuss embossing. Embossing creates texture on the paper using either a pressure method (embossing and die cutting machine) or special ink and powders added to an image to enhance it (raise it up from the paper). You can also use decorative masks and embossing paste. So many fun choices!

I like dry embossing using different patterned folders to create patterns on your papers. You can use about any paper you have, including vellum. Vellum is a bit tricky, but it can be done. 

Here are some embossing folders that I have, some are made specifically  for the mini machine and all may be used in the big guy. My two youngest granddaughters, ages 6 and 2.5, love to emboss paper with me!

In these examples I left the cards fairly plain so you can see the difference the embossed piece makes. I used the same stamp set, Softly Said, for all of the cards. I just love the large sentiments and the distinctive brush stroke type font. I will add some ribbon or bling to them before I send them out. 

Adding an embossed background layer to a card elevates a simple design to elegant, especially if you use the same color. Using white-on-white somehow makes a card appear very elegant. (Sorry the Very Vanilla one doesn't show as well)

Adding an embossed strip for accent can bring out other design elements used on the card.

Showing the difference between a layer of Designer Series Paper and an embossed card stock background. (I realized after I had already stuck the sentiment down with dimensionals that it should have been a horizontal card...ooops! Happy mistake!)

Now, with this last one, I got a wild hair, and not only embossed the card stock and the DSP, but I also die cut the sentiment from the embossed background layer! I know, I'm so crazy! 😅You have to stamp prior to embossing.

I hope you enjoyed this look at how embossed layers and strips can elevate your cards in just a few simple steps. Which one is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!

Next week I'll feature some embossing with powders. Below is a list of all products I used on these projects. You can find them all in my online store. If you don't already have a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, I would love to be yours! You can contact me through the website or at stampinopolous@gmail.com

Thanks for popping in! Till next time stay crafty and get your hands inky!

Blessings, Barb

Did you know that the Bible says that Jesus is the exact imprint of the Father?

He (Jesus) is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. Hebrews 1:3, ESV

Read more about Jesus being the imprint of God here on gotquestions.org

*any links provided are for my online store through Stampin' Up! I earn a commission on any sales from those links.

*Please use the February 2024 Host Code at the top of the post when ordering. This helps me earn products to show you! If your order is above $150 in product, don't use the code, as you will enjoy your own rewards! 

*If you join Stampin' Up! as a demonstrator during February 2024 Sale-A Bration, you can get the Glass Mat Studio as a sign-on bonus for free. Email me for details!

Products used:

Basics 3D Embossing Folders (set of 3) 

Geometric Patterns Embossing Folders (set of 2, works with mini machine)

Countryside Blossoms Embossing Folder

Countryside Inn 12x12 Designer Series Paper

Stampin' Up! blocks

Very Vanilla Notecards and Envelopes

Basic White Note Cards and Envelopes

Stampin' Up! Card stock: Blueberry Bushel, Gorgeous Grape, Bubble Bath, Basic White, Very Vanilla

Stampin' Up! Ink Pads: Blueberry Bushel, Misty Moonlight, Pebbled Path, Gorgeous Grape

In the Word Wednesday #11: Using Stamps in Your Faith Journal and Planner

Happy Wednesday, friends! I'm so glad you came for a visit. Pour some tea or coffee, pull out your faith journal/planner and some supplies and let's get creative!

Wait a second...what does stamping have to do with worship?

 We worship the CREATOR of the universe; the sun, moon and stars, mountains, valleys, birds, butterflies, rivers, lakes, oceans, you get the picture. Why not incorporate creativity into your journaling? 

I don't always "feel" like it; sometimes I just want to write, write, write. But there are times when some pretty stamps or washi tape (and let's not forget stickers...but that's a whole different rabbit hole!) inspire some praise, or worship can inspire the decor! 

You don't need to run out and buy anything; chances are if you read this blog, you already have stamps, ink and paper. 😀 Why not use them for more than card making?

I wanted something a bit different this year for my planner, and I decided to once again try out a disc-bound system. My friend Kristi of LifeinLine123 creates really nice, functional pages that you can print and use in your planners or journal. All her info is in the link, she's passionate about incorporating faith into planning, wellness, and all of life! Here are a few shots of my February spread and weekly pages. Nothing too fancy, just reminders to trust God as I make plans, write appointments, etc.I also have a spiral notebook that I use for worship and prayer. 

Who doesn't love Washi tape? I'm pretty low on it, but I'm NOT low on ink and stamps!

I used the Easter Lilies and Courage and Faith stamp sets on the February monthly spread. 🠞

I love me a good Bible verse set! Encouraging words for the month are always good to review. I love the background stamps, too, to add just a bit of interest to the pages. If you use Kristi's or any printable pages, you don't have to disc-bind your journals. You can 3 hole punch, put them in plastic sleeves, the sky is the limit! If you have a comb-binder, you can do that, too. I may splurge on some better quality printer paper as I go forward. 

🠜Here I'll use the tiny heart from the Sending Love set to mark off my daily goal boxes..SO CUTE!!! 💛 I think that tiny heart is my very favorite stamp. Do you have a favorite stamp or set? Break it out and use it for more than cards! 

I'll share my March spread at the end of February...it's birthday month 🎆and I'll try adding some fun papers to my monthly and weekly spreads, as well as some hand made dividers using a retired color card stock and some overstock of Sale-A-Bration DSP.

I hope this inspires you to get out some ink and stamps (and, maybe some washi ;-) ) and do a little creative stamping in your journals or planners.

Till next week, stay creative and prayerful!
Blessings

Barbara 🌻

Facebook LIVE Card Class February 9

Hello crafty friends!

Join me on the Stampinopolous Facebook page on Friday, February 9th at 1PM, Mountain Time for a live card class. I'll walk you through making three cards, two fun ones and one that can be considered elegant. I'll be using products from the Bee Mine Suite, the Perennial Postage bundle and the beautiful Most Adored Specialty Designer Series Paper. The Most Adored paper is a Sale-A-Bration exclusive, available free with a $50 or more product purchase.

Kits to craft along will have everything needed to create the cards except the STAMPED IMAGES/STAMP SETS*. This includes all die cut pieces, card bases, DSP*, any embellishments and dimensionals. Below is a list of other supplies you may want to consider purchasing. 

*Bee Mine and Most Adored DSP designs may vary

Available for several purchase options:

~ Purchase Option #1: Place an order for the Bee Mine Suite Collection (#162560), $75 by Friday, JANUARY 26, using the Valentine Live Host Code AVDT69RX , and I will send you the kit and instruction sheet via email. You will qualify for a Sale-A-Bration $50 level free product with this option. The highlighted LINK or HOST CODE must be used, as it is specific to this live class. That is how I will know who to send the kit to. Supplies for 6 cards, 3 different designs (2 each).

~ Purchase Option #2: Place an order for the Perennial Postage Stamp and Die Bundle  (162608) $51.25, by Friday, JANUARY 26, using the Valentine Live Host Code AVDT69RX, and I will send the kit and instruction sheet via email. You will qualify for a Sale-A-Bration $50 level free product with this option. The highlighted LINK or HOST CODE must be used, as it is specific to this live class. That is how I will know who to send the kit to. Supplies for 6 cards, 3 different designs (2 each).

~ Purchase Option #3: Place an order for the Bee Mine Stamp Set and Punch Bundle (#162554), $38.50, by Friday, JANUARY 26, using the Valentine Live Host Code AVDT69RX, and I will send you the kit and instruction sheet via email. The highlighted LINK or HOST CODE must be used, as it is specific to this live class. That is how I will know who to send the kit to. Supplies for 4 cards, 2 different designs (2 each).

~ Purchase Option #4: You may purchase a kit from me for $40 PPD. Supplies for thee cards, one of each design. Contact me: stampinopolous@gmail.com, Valentine Card Kit in the subject box.

I'm excited for you to join me!

Blessings,

Barbara 

*Stampin' Up! policy: Images are the copyright property of Stampin' Up! and may be purchased through Stampin' Up! or a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator. Individual stamped images are not for sale.

Most Adored Specialty Designer Series Paper, #162976, Sale-A.Bration $50 Exclusive Free Item

Memento Tuxedo Black Ink Pad, #132708 - $6.50

Daffodil Delight Stampin' Ink Pad #147094 - $9.00

Real Red Stampin' Ink Pad #187084 - $9.00

Clear Stamp Blocks I #188488 (5 7/8 in x 2 1/4 in) $13;

                                 C #118486 (2 in x 2 in) $8.00; 

                                 D #118485 (2 7/8 in x 2 11/16 in) $9.50

Simply Shammy Stamp Cleaner #147042 -  $8.50

Bone Folder #102300 - $7.00

Stampin' Seal + #149699 - $12.00 (

Multipurpose Liquid Glue #110755 - $5.50

Mini Glue Dots #103683 $5.75

Stampin' Dimensionals #104430 $4.25

Crafty Thursday #12 Extra: New catalog and Sale-A-Bration!

*January 2024 Host Code: M6C34D2G

Today is THE day! Let's talk Sale-A-Bration and the NEW Mini Catalog! There's so many fun, new products and fun new products to get for FREE with Sale-A-Bration going on. 

I am so excited to show you more projects with all the great new products. I have some (not all! 😉) and the ideas are endless; I'm planning on making a planner for the year, using  some of the ab-so-lutely beautiful new papers. 

Sale-A-Bration is the biggest promotion of the year, and it runs Jan 4-Feb 29, 2024. There are 2 tiers of free gifts you can earn from shopping:

Tier 1: for every $50 you spend in product, you earn free product. There are lovely papers and stamps sets that are only available during SAB. That's for every $50 you spend, you can pick a free, exclusive product!

Tier 2: For every $100 you spend in product, you can earn a different choice of product. Again, lovely papers, stamps sets with dies, all exclusive to SAB. You can also combine, and pick a $100 freebie and a $50 if you spend $150, or 3 $50 freebies. There's really no downside!

If you're interested in joining as a demonstrator during SAB, you get $125 worth of products as your starter kit (YOUR choice, there are no pre-set kits) PLUS the new Glass Mat studio all for $99. 

This is a hot, hot item, so IF you're considering choosing this as a join option, hurry! The generous glass mat (17"x14") comes with a cleaning cloth and a silicone multiuse mat that you can use to mix inks, hold your Stampin' Spots inks and so much more. This is a great offer and I'm a little envious 

If you saw my post from last week, I featured the Rock and Roll Suite from the new Mini Catalog, which is available today! Products in the new mini are available Jan 4-April 30, 2024. Some of them, like the Perennial Lavender Suite, is going to go fast! I used some of them on my Dozen Notecards in today's regular post. I love the Postage Stamp dies that are part of the suite; they make such unique cards.

The Bee Mine Suite is going to be the focus of my February card kit and demonstration. The kit will include supplies to make 3 cards, including embellishments and an instruction sheet. I will let you know in next week's post about the kit's availability and price.

I hope you decide to try some great products, make some cards and spread joy! I'd love to help you in your crafty journey. Contact me for any help or information you need: stampinopolous@gmail.com

*My January 2024 Host Code is M6C34D2G. Thank you for using it when you order. If your order is over $150 in product, don't use my code, you will be able to enjoy your own rewards benefits! If you order $50 or more in product, you will receive a thank you gift from me personally.

Crafty Thursday #11 The Rock and Roll Suite Sneak Preview!

Good morning, crafty friends! 

Today's cards feature a preview of  the Rock and Roll Suite, and man, oh, man! This is a fun group of products! This suite will be available for purchase January 4th - April 30th, 2024 from the new Mini Catalog. The December 2023-January 2024 Host Code is M6C34D2G *

Just take a look at all those fun things! The 12x12 Designer Series papers are all black and white themed, so you can use them for many different occasions, not just Rock and Roll birthday greetings!  The stamp set is red rubber, and there are coordinating dies with a few extras thrown in. I love the big guitar pick, and with the right DSP, it looks perfect! 

What suite would be complete without some embellishments? The stars and lightning bolts really complete your cards. On a few of the samples I also used the Gold Faceted Sequins, since the larger ones looked like guitar picks. 

To make my sample cards, I used a simple layout that shows both sides of the DSP. I will put the measurements at the end of the post. I created one simple card that you can create with minimal supplies, then I made a few stepped up versions with die cuts and embossing folders. You do not need a lot of tools to make beautiful cards...but they are fun to use!

For the simpler card, I used a 2 3/8 in circle punch for the focal point, stamped in black on white card stock. The decorate strip on the left side of the card is a coordinating piece of DSP. All of these patterns work well together as they are all black and white.

The only embellishments on the front are a few of the Gold Faceted Sequins. Inside I used the "Thanks for Being an Icon" stamp from the set, that sentiment just makes me smile! Nothing fancy, just some black ink and white inside, on a black card base. I wanted  to emphasize "simplicity" with the layout and supplies

For the stepped up versions, I used some colored card stock, embossing folders and dies. The strips on the left have been embossed, and the focal points all use different die cuts, some that are in the matching set, and others are from the Nested Essentials and Stylish Shapes die sets. Some of the cards have a few points of color using the handy sponge daubers to create highlighted areas on the DSP or the inside sentiment. A few of the focal points have been heat embossed. I used Wink of Stella  on some of the cards to highlights the records on the DSP for a bit of shine! 

Today (Dec 28) is my brother's birthday, and his card has ALL the fun stuff on it, and was also a jumbo sized card. 

I used  a similar layout as the featured cards, as well as the matching die cuts, and some markers to color the guitar to match his. You can also see the lightning bolt and star embellishments, as well as a few of the star die cuts that are extras in the set. The banner is from the Nested Essentials die set. Inside was more or the same, I added the large die cut guitar pick and microphone, more lightning bolts...It was a pretty full card! He said it was "the best birthday card ever," and that makes me a very happy card making sister! 😁 

Schnibby, if you read this, Happy, Happy! 

Here are the measurements for the featured cards, which fit in a regular, A2 envelope.

Card base: 5 1/2 in x 6 in, scored at 4 1/4 in

DSP front: 3 in x 5 1/2 in

Decorative strip on front: 1 in x 5 1/4

                                                                Inside blank: 4 in x 5 1/4 in

I'd love to know if you made this card or used this template with other colors and Designer Series paper.

 You can read about singing a new song to the Lord at this gotquestions link.

Thanks for taking some time to spend with me today. Have a wonderful and blessed New Year and I'll see you again in 2024! 

Blessings,
Barb

*My December 2023-January 2024 Host Code is M6C34D2G. Thank you for using it when you order. If your order is over $150 in product, don't use my code, you will be able to enjoy your own rewards benefits! If you order $50 or more in product, you will receive a thank you gift from me personally.

Crafty Thursday #10: Bookmarks!

 Who doesn't love a bookmark? 

Bookmarks are a quick and easy project and great for gifting; they can be tucked into a card, hand delivered or tucked into a book for gifting. I've been making them and giving them to my wonderful Bible study friends, and a few ladies here at my complex who I meet with some days for crafting. 

They are also very, very versatile, for many occasions. Mix your stamp sets and papers, and you create unique gifts. If you use plain card stock, you can shadow stamp on that, too, for a completely different look. So many options! These are also pretty great for using odd scraps or retired DSP that you may not think you have a purpose for. 

The measurements are so simple, it doesn't require a whole instruction sheet 😁

Supplies needed:

Stamp set

Card stock or Designer Series Paper

White or vanilla card stock

Glue, or adhesive of choice

Hole punch and ribbon

Base for your bookmark is 2 inches wide by 6 inches long. Cut this from colored card stock or any designer series paper.

Cut your white or vanilla card stock for center 1.5 inches by 6 inches. You can make it a bit shorter if you want a border on the top and bottom.

Decorate your center piece with your stamp set of choice.

Glue your pieces together. I like glue for this, so it will stand up to use. If you use wet glue, let dry completely before next step.

Punch hole at top, and add your ribbon. This is, of course, optional. One of my study friends immediately takes the ribbon off of her bookmark.

Here are some of my recent creations; a friend ordered 3 dozen!

I hope this gives you an idea for last minute gifts or small ways to bless others. After all, isn't that what crafting is all about?

I will be "off" next week as we have a few appointments and, of course, last minute Christmas shopping!

I hope that you all have the most wonderful of holidays, and come back December 28th for a "rocking" fun birthday card! 

Glory to the new born King!

Blessings, Barb 

Crafty Thursday # 6: Explosion Cards Fun Folds

 Confession: I really love the creativity of Fun Fold cards. L.O.V.E. it!

But...some are really hard! 😏 I'll show you both of my attempts.

NOVEMBER 2023 HOST CODE: AUJPKKWY

This was the easier one. The inner piece is called a squash fold, and it's fairly easy to make. More about that below; I was able to liberally use my favorite stamp set, Circle Sayings, I just love that little cupcake! I chose not to color it this time, I liked the look of the tone-on-tone vibe I had going with the fun Bright and Beautiful papers. I used Bubble Bath card stock for the base, and stamped with Fresh Freesia. I love the color combo!

One great thing about the squash fold piece is that you can make it any size so long that it's a square. I made some fun ornaments with this fold, too. They can be given or used for Christmas, birthdays or any other occasion where you may want a fun alternative to a card. The designer series paper is the perfect weight to use for this very fun fold! You can use card stock, but it's a bit bulky, and if using in a card, will require extra postage.  

To create the squash fold: You need a 6 in x 6 inch square. Score at 3 inches on both sides, creating 4 squares. Then, score diagonally, once across. You can see the folds in the above photo. Fold the piece in half, keeping the pattern you want to show on the INSIDE of the fold. Do the same for the other horizontal side, keeping the chosen pattern inside. You will have a 2 3/4 in square. Open it back up,  then fold on the diagonal the opposite way, so the chosen pattern is on the outside. It sounds a lot more complicated than it is, and I hope I'm explaining it well here. You can see in the picture how it pops out, creating the "explosion" when you open the card.

The next card is the one I had some trouble with. I made several templates before I attempted the card. The squash fold is up in the corner, and it's not quite as easy to create as the simple squash fold. I used a thinner piece of white card stock from Hobby Lobby to create the base, as I found that a bit easier to work that tricky corner.

I'm holding it closed so you can see the front and how it opens up to the right. I put the round greeting on a square, to keep the linear look. 

As you can see in the second picture, there was plenty of room to decorate this card. I probably got a bit caried away 😁 I'm not sure that I have this one down, and after a few failed attempts, my hubby told me to set it aside and try again another day. So, I listened to his wisdom and made dinner!

Creating is all about the process, and sometimes the process doesn't quite

work the way you intend it to. My grandkids will love the card, and never know that it's "not perfect." Perfect cards are available in the stores; imperfections are the love you put into it. 

 

I'm going to leave you a link to Really Robin Stamps's You Tube tutorial on the corner fold card. She explains it so much better than I think I can, and makes it look easy. ;-) 

All supplies can be purchased in my online store or you can use my shopping link here. If you use my host code at the top of this post, and spend $50 or more on product, you will receive a thank you gift directly from me. The Seasonal Sale ends today, so if you want anything, hurry over to shop!

Thanks for spending some time with me today. I hope you try BOTH of these cards, and if you do, let me know how they turned out. You can post a picture of them in the comments for this post on my Facebook page.

A tutorial sheet for the Explosion Card and Squash fold (first card) is available right here.

Till next time, have a blessed and wonderful day!

Barbara

*all Stampin' Up! links are mine, and I earn a commission.

Just a Reminder! Seasonal Sale!

 Starts TOMORROW!

Get on early so you don't miss out on papers, inks, embellishments and more! It's also a great time to join as a demonstrator and get a nice discount off your Starter Kit! 

My Shopping Link and November 2023 HOST CODE AUJPKKWY

Sales Period: November 14-16 2023

Ordering Deadlines

Phone: November 16 2023 at 6:59 p.m. (MT)

Online: November 16 2023 at 11:59 p.m. (MT) 

• 10% off ribbons and trims.
• 15% off inks, including pads, refills, markers, and Blends. Bundles are not included.
• 20% off papers, including cardstock, specialty paper, and Designer Series Paper.
• Shop online to see the full selection of discounted products available. This is a limited time offer.
• Discounts are automatically applied when sale items are added to any order, including Starter Kits.
• Please keep in mind that due to the high volume of orders, the distribution center may fall behind our typical shipping timeframes. We will do everything we can to return to our regular service levels as quickly as possible.

Please note: Some items may sell out due to high demand. The discount will automatically be applied to qualifying items that are in stock. Per our updated policy, backorders are not available. 

Thank you and have fun shopping! Don't forget orders of $50 or more gets a freebie gift directly from me! 

Surprise Sale! 🥳

Hey, friends! That's my 16 pages of post-it notes Stampin' Up! wish list...and, guess what??

November 14-16, 2023 is a SALE!!! 🎉🥳

⭐️ 10% off ribbons and trim

⭐️ 15% off inks

⭐️ 20% off paper

All from the 2023-2024 Annual catalog!

Discounts are automatically applied when items are added to order. Some items may sell out due to high demand; sale will not be applied to items that go on backorder. Keep in mind that the distribution center might fall behind due to high order volume.

This is a great time to shop for quality Stampin' Up! products. Maybe I can knock a page or two off that list 😉 How about you? 

Please use the following:

My shopping link and the

November 2023 Host Code: AUJPKKWY

*Orders over $50 get a freebie thank you from me personally!

If you're order is over $150, don't use the host code, enjoy your own shopping rewards! 

Happy Shopping! 

Monday Product Review #1: Stampin' Up! Stamp Blocks

Quick Review and comparison of Stampin' Up! stamp blocks and Fiskars Stamp Blocks

When I first caught stampin' fever, I had been binging on the MayMay Made It! You Tube channel. Based in Alabama, she has a brick and mortar store and crafting studio in a quaint small town, Clanton. My first supplies were purchased from their online store, and I picked up a set of Fiskars stamp blocks* to be used with my first ever photopolymer cling stamps. I have never used more than a wood-mounted rubber stamp prior to 2023, and I felt these worked fine. They are flat, thin plastic, approximately 1/4 in thick, and have a grid marking which is nice to get your stamping placement straight. They have curved handles on the sides where you hold them to do your stamping. With the exception of the smallest one, you need two hands to use them. Alongside of the odd "oops, stuck my finger in the stamp pad" issues, I've gotten used to them.

Since I purchased (another) new stamp set, I wanted to try out a few of the Stampin Up! stamp blocks, too. I purchased the three that were suggested in the catalog under the set listing. The difference working with them is real. The blocks are comfortable in my hand, and are simple to use one-handed, all which make it much easier to place and stamp. They are approximately an inch thick, and come in several sizes, both square and rectangular. I tend to have a heavy hand, and it was very easy for me to lighten my touch. I was skeptical, but after an afternoon of using them, I will be collecting more! 

Price point to consider: the Fiskars set, sizes 1x1, 2x2, 3x3 and a large 2x6.5 inches, is $23. You can use them all for most of your hobby needs. If you purchase 2 sets you won't need to constantly change out your stamps if you'll be creating more than one or two cards. The Stampin Up! clear acrylic blocks * are riced as a bundle of 9 sizes at $81, the smallest block being just a hair under 1.5x1.5 and the largest at 5x6, big enough for their background stamps. The prices of the individual blocks run from $5-$20. The bundle is a great option if you have the finances to get them all up front. In the catalogs, when you purchase a stamp set or bundle, the suggested sized blocks are listed. 

The Fiskars set is a great set to begin with. MayMay's online store also has an inexpensive set of acrylic stamp blocks  (under $10) if you want to try out acrylic blocks. If you decide to move from casual to avid stamper, upgrade to the Stampin Up! blocks. 

I hope this was helpful if you are considering taking up this amazing craft!

Till next time, be blessed, and don't forget to #createandblessothers 

Barb 

*Full disclosure, as a Stampin Up! demonstrator, I will make a commission if you use my SU links. Links to MayMay Made It! are not affiliate links. I will always tell you if any link is an affiliate link. 

Gate Fold Card

 

My shipment of new Stampin' Up! products arrived this week, and I've been busy, busy, busy! I had some organization to take care of first (we're in a small apartment, I need to be smart with our spaces!) but I finally got down to making some cards using the new products!

Aren't these cards beautiful? The technique is called the Gate Fold, and I made one with a belly band (middle) instead of the "gates" on the front. In the second photo, you can see how the cards open. One opens side to side and the other top and bottom. I added a thin piece of the Designer Series Paper on the inside for a little extra flair. 

The belly band slides off to reveal the beautiful DSP I used on the inside as well. The paper leant itself so beautifully to add a sentiment, and carry the snowy forest theme to the inside.

I just love the deep, bold colors of the card stock in contrast with the softer tones in the Winter Meadow Designer Series Paper. Together, I think they make stunning cards! The other designs in this package are just as stunning, be on the lookout for more cards using this paper.

I used the new Christmas Classics stamp set on the first two cards, and a retired set, Flurry of Wishes, on the third. 

The first Gate Fold card used Garden Green card stock, and the second one, Mossy Meadow. 

The punch used for the sentiment is the new Modern Oval punch. I like the size (approx 1 3/4 x 2 in), it's just right for many sentiment-al occasions. To conceal the seam on the belly band, I snipped off the top and bottom to fit it on the band. The shape lends itself well to adjusting to fit the space needed. 

I finished them off with a little bit of bling, using the Blooming Pearls embellishments.

The wood coasters were made by my son. They're coming in quite handy in my card making endeavors! 

For a printable GoogleDoc tutorial of how to make this card, click here! 

Thanks for stopping by!
Blessings,

Barb

Learn more about Jesus as "the narrow gate"