Currently Crafting...

Vintage Memo Boards

2011-10-07T19:37:00.000-07:00

Greetings! Fall is here and my craft room is getting cleaned up and ready for use.

My latest project involves a technique I have been waiting to try out for months.

I call it Vintage Memo Board.

I was inspired by one I saw at Home Goods about a month ago. I knew this was the project for my image transfer technique. I used a solvent called CitraSolv. It's a natural cleanser, made from orange peel and coconut-derived biodegradable surfactant. Yea. That's geek speak for COOLIO!

A few pointers:

Don't use a foam cup. It will melt through it. Paper is a close second.

It smells awesome.

Melted the grease right off of the stove hood. SWEET!

Can be purchased online. I paid about $7 at a Henry's/Sprouts, a produce/health food store.

OK....back to the project.

Step 1: Build a frame.

I used a thin sheet of MDF cut to 22 x 24 inches. Found at Home Depot, about $4.89 a sheet, makes 2 panels.

Cut 2 pieces of 1 x 2 x 8 foot pine to go around the inner edges of the MDF. Home Depot price $2.88 each.

Cut and nail the frame to the back side. I used our handy dandy Porter Cable brad nailer.

Super loud, but OH so efficient!

Step 2: Create the fabric.

Cut a piece of fabric that is larger that your board. I made sure mine was at least 2 inches overhang on each side. I used Osnaberg, an inexpensive, woven fabric. Prewash to shrink and press smooth.

Step 3: Create Images.

I chose 10-12 of my favorite black and white images from the Graphic Fairy. She has some lovely images. Just download and save.

Now...here is the tricky part. The images have to be printed by some ancient copy machine. Your home computer won't do, the one at work didn't work, neither did Staples.

Finally, that junky copy machine at the grocery store, next to the Lotto ticket, was the winner.

So, good luck finding the winning copier. I would also try the unfancy one at the city library.

Place the image on your fabric.

Use a small sponge and rub it over the image, getting it wet.

Then use a spoon to burnish the image onto the fabric.

Badda bing! Image transferred.

The fabric takes about 15 minutes to dry. I popped mine in the dryer, then starched

and pressed it.

Step 4: Attach the fabrics

Cut a layer of batting and place it on top of the board. Trim to meet edges.

Stretch the fabric around the edges and staple on the backside.

Step 5: Create the String Pattern

Mark off increments of 4-6 inches on the sides of the boards. That is where you will attach the jute. Create a diamond pattern with jute. This was tricky. But your eye will tell you if it doesn't look right. Then....there is always a ruler to confirm.

Staple in on the back side of the frame.

Hammer an upholstery nail where the jute crossed. I had to bend the nails over on the back so they didn't pull out.

Step 6: Add a frame hook and hang.

Before: BOOOOO!

After: YAAAAYYYY!

So pretty, I don't even want to hang things on it!

I would not suggest washing the fabric after transferring the image. It fade dramatically.

This technique is would be terrific for pillows too!

Enjoy!

For another tutorial on CitraSolv.

Lemon tree

2011-04-27T00:44:00.000-07:00

Sweet Pea just got home from college for the summer. I was working on a project when she asked me, "What are you into?"

Good question. My blog is called Currently Crafting because I have DYI ADD. I throw myself into something and become a little obsessed (a craft room full of tools and gadgets as proof), then after a few months I get bored. Actually, I should say my enthusiasm dwindles or I find something else to obsess about.

Sweet Pea's follow up question: "What have you been doing since I have been gone?"

Not much, I thought. What have I been doing. Certainly not cleaning, or working on projects.

I have been searching for the perfect fabric for drapery...in 3 rooms. Do you know how hard it is to find items in the store you create in your head? Fabric...impossible. But that's another story.

What I did come up with was gardening. Yes! I have been gardening. I had forgotten about the backbreaking days I spent hauling out crumby dirt, mixing manure and amendments, planting, replanting, weeding and pruning the front and back yard.

I share one or two of my successes.

This is an Improved Meyer Lemon Tree.

It's delicious, fragrant and beautiful

Source

This is what mine looked like in May. Sad.

I replanted Sad Lemon Tree into a pot...with real soil.

Surprise! It started to grow.

New buds and flowers.

Hooray!

No fruit yet...but I am hopeful.

Next up...roses.

Here are a few beauties from my front yard.

This is our Libby Rose, a.k.a. Queen Elizabeth.

When our daughter Libby passed away, my dad and I each planted one in our yards.

He lives closes to the cemetery and sometimes take some over to the grave.

See pictures here.

Love him!

Here is a lovely "Peace"

I think this is a" Double Delight".

Finally, I'm not sure the name of this one, but it's a gorgeous yellow with green edges.

So that, Sweet Pea, is what I am into.

Media Center

2011-04-18T18:22:00.000-07:00

I've been searching high and low for an affordable console/media center to fill this whole

Nice, huh?

So, I start at Pottery Barn. HAhahahahah. Affordable? Yeah!

Pottery Barn is where I go to get ideas, not make purchases.

So I see this little beauty.

Price $999....that's dollars, thank you.

Gratefully, I have been successful in the second-hand furniture department. I found this classy piece on Craig's..after just a few days of looking.

However, the big winner was a Thomasville dresser I found at Salvation Army. I saw it, thought about it, measured it twice, thought some more, then sent my daughter to pick it up one day while I was at work. It was half off...$144! Score!

before picture

I spent several hours (read: days) sanding and filling holes.

Then I used several coats of Rust-oleum spray primer in red, then 3-4 coats of

Rust-oleum Colonial Red in satin. As a final touch, I used Minwax walnut stain to distress and add dimension. Finished off with clear coats.

Spray paint is fabulous!

It fits like a glove!

New hardware to finish off the masterpiece.

My neighbor said this looks like a happy face! I agree.Excellent storage for Wii and dvd.

Each drawer holds dvd....perfectly.
Total cost under $200. BAM!

My two helpers. Thanks guys!

Im linking to:

Savvy Southern Style

Miss Mustard Seed

All Things Inspired

Centsational Girl

Check them out!

Easter Eggs

2011-04-18T16:13:00.000-07:00

Wow! Over 2 months since my last post. Sheesh!

I finally took the time to complete some fun Easter/Spring decor.

Lovely specimens have been gracing blogland in all types and fashions...butterflies,

shoponalark on etsy

spiders, flowers, shells, hearts...you get the pictures.

I unloaded my spring tubs from the garage a couple of weeks ago and found a hideous egg topiary I had tried to put together last year. Simple ugly. So, tore it apart and created a framed egg specimen display.

Each egg is cut in half (tricky when some are plastic) and I needed to hot glue some spanish moss on the edges to hide where the paint had chipped. I actually like that part. Then, I glued each egg to a piece of sheet music that I distressed with a little of Tim Holtz distress ink (THE BOMB!) I use it on everything...paper, fabric, paint. Since this was an old frame I found in the closet and of course, is missing a backing, I used semi-permenant glue dots to attach the sheet music to the frame glass. The 3D effect is nice.

Here is the finished pieced on my buffet, Baxter.

Looks like an Eggapalooza, if you ask me.

So, there is my new addition to the Easter Collection of crap to dust.

What have you added this season?

Enjoy!

I'm linking to the following parties:

The Brambleberry Cottage

Chalkboard Love

2011-02-08T18:12:00.000-08:00

You know my love for chalkboards. I've linked up to a chalkboard party...Whoo-Hoo! There are a few super cute ideas. Take a look!

Ruffled Tee

2011-01-22T18:46:00.000-08:00

I finally completed this ruffled tee, after falling in love with the "Inception Scarf". The Inception Scarf was actually made with the remnants of this gray heather knit.

Total cost of t-shirt...about $5.00...BAM!

I can't believe I actually model it, or the picture taken by my 10 year old turned out. He accidental had the camera setting to "extra wrinkled face".

I struggled to finish the ruffle, not quite sure how I wanted it to look. I knew that I wanted to wear it specifically with a charcoal cardigan sweater I have. The first ruffle went all around the neckline. Very circus-clowny. So I took off the ruffle, cut it in half, and laid a narrower ruffle on the top. Now the t-shirt is perfect for the sweater.

Here is a close up.

I did make the t-shirt, but you can buy one and add a ruffle of coordinating knit. The t-shirt was actually super simple. I took one of my favorite fitting tees, a Mossimo from Target. Turn the t-shirt inside out, laid the Target shirt flat on the table, then folded in half, straight down the middle. I traced around the neckline, shoulders, armholes, sides and bottom. Then added 3/4". Do the same for the back and sleeve. Three easy pieces. Much easier that it sounds. Now I have a pattern to make a pajillion tshirts. You can alter the length of the sleeves, necklines, etc.

No buttons, zippers or ties. Yippee!

Let me know if you have any questions.

Enjoy!

Welcome Eleanor

2011-01-17T14:21:00.000-08:00

I'd like to introduce you to the newest furniture member in my house.....Eleanor.

She was acquired last week in a brilliant Craigslist exchange...money for furniture.

I found her after only a few days of serious search, which completely contradicted my theory of "Nothing good is ever found in my neighborhood". Actually, I had to travel to the tony city of Carlsbad, CA to find her. Well worth the trip.

She is a Bernhardt antique, supposedly purchased from an estate sale in North Carolina about 45 years ago. Whatever, I bought it, story and all.

Now the dilemna. She has a cruddy top and some dings and worn spots. Nothing serious, though. How to refinish her? Lovely, glazey paint finish, refinish as original or something new?

Her new home is across the room from Baxter:

Baxter is a handpainted sideboard. Tobacco, green and a teeny bit of gold finish.

So HELP! What do I do? I am not into matchy-matchy. I love pieces that are collected over time and have character.

Sidenote: Yes, I do name most things. My car is called Butterscotch and my dog Oliver.

Your help needed!

2011-01-13T14:54:00.000-08:00

I am in the middle of a transition. For the first 10 years of my married life, I had pink walls and blue floral sofa. I loved them.

Flash forward 20 years.

Now, I am a little older, no babies to worry about and my style has become a little more refined. I have been stalking, reading and blotting my new style/strategy. My husband, while tolerant of my shenanigans, does not read my blog and has very little idea what happens while he is a work. Poor dear!

Here is my current living room status and some ideas:

Millwork, including crown molding and maybe even wainscotings.

Good-bye to Eleanor's green predecessor, the sofa table.

Window treatments on the horizon. 3 long panels. Fabric-to be determined.

Wingback chair is going to be slipcovered...very soonly, in drop cloth. Imagine this:

image from Pink and Polka Dot

Floral and denim wingback...relocated to another room.

End table...refinished...maybe painted?

Window treatment: valances to coordinate with panels.

I'm thinking something like this:

Victorola...loved this piece given to me by my grandmother. Doesn't work, but splendid at holding sheet music and books. Said piece will soon be moving to my sister's home.

Bookcase...BA-BYE! I have great plans for a "booknook" in an underutilized computer nook upstairs. This is the only project husband is aware of, and not to crazy about.

A lot of talk about resale values, blah, blah, blah.

And we are back at the entry way with Eleanor.

Here are a couple of other ideas.

Good bye to yellow #13.

I have loved this yellow in 2 houses for over 9 years. Time to move on.

I'm thinking something more neutral, BM-OC14 Natural Cream.

Hate, Hate, HATE carpet. Tile, not so much love either. Would love to replace with wood all downstairs, but that includes a kitchen island remodel that is a couple of years away.

Who designs kitchens anyways? Men, men who don't cook!

ok. So sorry to drag this on. I have been thinking of this post for a couple of weeks. I am soliciting any and all suggestions. You ladies are so wonderful and generous.

Thanks and see you Lowe's!

The Inception Scarf

2011-01-13T13:23:00.001-08:00

Have you seen the movie "Inception"?

Me either....but I live with people (Sweet Pea) who LOVE it.

So, when I made a scarf within a scarf.....it had to be the

"Inception Scarf"

Here is how it goes down:

You'll need 3/4 yard stretch knit. Will also work with fleece.

See Suzanne's version in fleece. Very cute. I am sure I CASE'd this scarf from her.

Cut 2 pieces of stretch knit 8 x 60 inches; sew ends together to make one long 8 x 120 inches.

Cut 3 pieces of stretch knit 6 x 75 inches; sew ends together to make one long 6 x 150 inches.

Gather 8 inch wide piece of fabric by stitching down the middle. Use a long stitch when gathering. I bunched it up and I pushed it through the needle as I go along.

Your finished length should be about 60 inches.

Do the same thing for the same thing for the 6 inch wide piece.

The finished length should also be about 60 inches. I will be a little fuller than the 8 inch wide piece.

Turn under the ends of each layer.....stitch to finish.

Pin the 6 inch piece on top of the 8 inch;

adjust the gathers so that both layers are the same length.

Stitch down the middle of both pieces.

Sew down the middle again using a zigzag stitch to secure the gathers.

Next time I will stitch a piece of ribbon to the backside of the stitching, just to make sure the stitching doesn't pull out.

There you go....Inception Scarf...a scarf within a scarf. Sweet.

My girlfriend ALMOST didn't get this for her birthday. Sweet Pea loved it so much.

I love the way it makes a little collar.

Oliver.....inspector number 16...quality control.

Christmas Tag

2010-12-26T22:01:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas!

I had such brilliant plans, and as usual, they didn't all come to fruition.

I have a list of holiday craft projects to do.....maybe complete them now and be ready next year?

I wanted to post all of my beautiful Christmas decorations...hasn't happened. Is it too late?

Wanted to make handmade gifts for dear friends....still working on a few. Maybe birthdays?

Well, here are a couple of things I did manage to squeek out at the last minute.

I was inspired to use vintage images after seeing a lovely gift wrapped at French Garden House.

Special thanks to the Graphic Fairy for sharing so many sweet images. I had a hard time decide which ones to use.

I used dotted swiss embossing folder, dictionary flower and a gold embossing sentiment

Simple text and reindeer graphic.

Did you know caribou, or reindeer are good swimmers?

Another Graphic Fairy image with some berry and leaves from my stash.

Graphic Fairy image and a little gold glitter on the candle flames.

GF image and scraps do the trick. I loved that little scarlet birdie.

Finally, a graphic from the interwebz....I can't remember where...and I will check because I want to give credit. Nothing original here!

A few sweet images, scraps and my news Sizzix tag die, I cranked these out at 1 am the other night. Still haven't been to bed before 1 am in the last 4 nights. Perimenopause sucks! Thank heavens for Ambient!

Enjoy!

Pottery Barn Pillows

2010-11-18T07:30:00.000-08:00

Happy Thursday!

A week before Thanksgiving and things are moving right along. We are going to be visiting family, so no dinner at my house this year. Shoosh!

However, we will be visiting some dear friends who will be hosting my brood for the turkey/Harry Potter/shopping/football fest.

It's only polite to bring something to the hostess, don't you think?

This year my husband will be bringing a 24 pack of Diet Coke (how very thoughtful!) and some summer sausage. I don't think our hostess will care much, but the hubby's will enjoy the snacks while watching football.

My hubby thinks with his tummy, I think with my eyes. When I saw these pillows at Pottery Barn Teens, I think I screamed a little.

Cute, bright and embroidered.

Then I inspiration on how to make them at Naptime Crafters and it was all over and done.

Here are mine:

I call this one: Owlie Babba and the 40 Leaves

Falling Leaves

They turned out sooo nice, that my sister is getting the same set for her birthday. The

floral pattern is perfect for her living room (cross fingers).

I even, quite by coincidence, came home for the store with the same fabric as Naptime Crafters.

Hum. Must be cuz it's so cute.

Enjoy!

Future Star Stencil

2010-11-13T10:18:00.001-08:00

Happy Saturday!

Thanksgiving is coming up and I am getting stressed. But, that doesn't stop me from working on projects on the BOTTOM of my To-Do List. Ha!

Today's project is a "BING" light bulb idea I had last week. I have seen lots of fun projects out in blogland using freezer paper stencils.

Heeeellllllooooo! Where have I been?

Lacrosse season is coming up and I wanted to make to cool shirts for my boys, Lazy Boy and Drama. Here is Drama modeling my SECOND attempt. I'm not even going to post the first shirt. Yuck!

beautiful fall day

I am so happy the way this turned out. Now, I have got a bunch of LAX ideas on my scribble pad ready to go.

Want to know how?

There are a ton of tutorials on the interwebz, so I'll hook you up with a couple of good ones:

Dana at Made

Cheri at I am Momma

Here is a couple of tips.

I design my graphic in Pages, cuz I'm a Mac girl and Photoshop stupid. It's easy to manipulate images and resize.

When cutting your stencil, put a fresh blade into your Exacto knife. Totally makes a difference.

Use a piece of freezer paper behind the fabric so that the paint doesn't soak through. DO NOT use cardboard.

Use the paint designed especially for fabric. I like Tulip Soft Fabric Paint, in Matte. It's cheap ($1.69 a bottle) and comes in many color. It's the perfect consistency to paint, leave a good coat of color and not bleed through.

DO NOT use watery, acrylic paint.

Use a specialty brush. Also inexpensive, and sold right next to the fabric paint.

DO NOT use a big, foam brush, unless you have a large area to cover.

Hope to make a lot more stencils and finish, FINISH a few projects this weekend.

Cheers!

Sweet Pea Banner

2010-11-11T19:57:00.000-08:00

Sweet Pea's birthday was last week and since she is attending college 1200 miles away, I wanted to send something to make her day special.

I put together a banner for her party at Grandma and Grandpa's house.

(Of course, it arrived 2 days later. Urgh!)

I used the Girl's Paperie line "Paper Girl" that I won at April's charity auction.

I can't get enough of this goodness.

I also stole....blatantly stole the ideas and the circles from

Pretty Paper Blog

then added some sweet butterflies so that I could use the paper cuts.

I had to print out the letters, mirror image, with the compy.

Man, a Cricut would have saved me a boatload of trouble.

Forgive the lighting. I finished the project at 9:30 pm and immediately

packed it up for shipping the next day.

Sweet Pea called yesterday and G & G brought over her banner and presents.

What other 19 year old would love this

AND this?

Happy Bday Sweet Pea!

Halloween Wrap up-Craft Style

2010-11-01T14:37:00.000-07:00

Now that Halloween is over, it's time to take down the pumpkins and whatnot. Here is a quick shot of my mantle before it goes into a box 'til next year.

First up, Halloween banner. Sweet Pea has a completely blank, white dorm. Made this to add a little color.

She liked it. I should have made like 15 of them to fill up that wall.

There is my lovely owlie plate.

The vinyl was $5 from Wonderfully Wordy

and the plate was $1 buck from Home Goods

SCORE!!!

Here was a fun project. I made this fun candle wrap with the paper I won from Margie Romney-Aslett. You can see all the goodies I won at my other blog.

Thanks Margie and April!

A friend and I went to Tai Pan yesterday and got some goodies....OOOOHHHH!

Looking forward to finding new homes for those new pieces.

Vinyl Giveaway

2010-10-18T16:50:00.000-07:00

Today I am sharing a give-away with Wonderfully Wordy. I just ordered the vinyl owl

for my Halloween mantel (coming soon!) and would love some more vinyl. Who doesn't love vinyl? I have several around my home, but my favorite is the front door. It says "No solicitors or flyers". I might as well said, "LET LOST!" But it totally works. I don't get junk or salesman at my door.

So if you would like some vinyl, go to Sweet November and join the giveaway.

I totally need/love the pantry canisters. Don't you think I need those?

Enjoy!

Halloween Banner

2010-10-14T19:24:00.000-07:00

Sweet Pea lives in the college dorms, complete with white cinder blocks. I made a Halloween banner to add a little color to that sparce, blank space. I did a lot of cutting and folding during a recent Sunday while watching church on t.v.

(BEST ever!).

I printed out each letter onto bright green cardstock using a "Lord of the Rings" font. Who knew...never mind. Geeks and nerds know that stuff.

(It doesn't look like green in the above photo, see below)

Next up, punched out 3" scallops out of eggplant and glue letters on top.

Then, I used 2 different designer papers, a black stripe and orange polka dot. Cut each into 2" x 12" in strips. Glued 2 strips together (2" x 24"), folded every 1/2 inch to form the medallions.

Finally, I sent all of the pieces to Sweet Pea and she glued them together on a 3/4" ribbon. I wasn't sure about the length of the room, so she did it herself.

Here is it....Tah-dah!

Needless to say, this wall needs a lot, LOT more color.

I am looking forward to making another one for myself....this time with yellow or cream centers (oohhh...That sounds like a cookie!)

I've got a ton of other Halloween/Fall projects that are midway to completion.

Working a lot has put some money in my pocket, but a cramp in my crafting time. Can't win!

What is your newest decor addition this fall?

Enjoy!

Autumn, wishful thinking

2010-10-02T18:37:00.000-07:00

Today's post is a wish for fall to come. Summer decided to extend it's stay like an old, stinky ...I don't know, but you get the picture.

I have been decorating my front door in the hopes of some kind of cooler weather arriving.

That didn't work. What did happen was crazy lightening and thunder storms and big fluffy clouds and humidity. Huh. Well, at least it isn't 110 degrees.

Oh yeah....these were live flowers... almost dead now. What the heck, Summer. Go away!

Next week, pumpkins make their appearance. Maybe that will invite cooler weather.

Ciao!

Banana Bread

2010-09-29T10:02:00.000-07:00

Check out my post for banana bread.

You'll wish there was smell-o-vision here.

Chalkboard Paint....some more

2010-09-26T19:53:00.000-07:00

Hi ya!

So with school starting, crafting has been on hold.

With my new love of chalkboard paint, I have moved on to pottery.

The first pot is painted with red trim on the top and chalkboard paint on the pot. This is a perfect year-round pot....Back-to-School, Fall, Christmas, Valentine's, etc. Write in your favorite phrase and switch out the flowers. This season....mums.

Also, a great idea for treats. This pot is fill with my favs, tootsie rolls.

It says "Here's to you, Toots!"

What else can I do with chalkboard paint? Stay tuned!

School Girl Birthday

2010-08-31T22:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Back to School!

Today's card is a birthday card for a teacher buddy. Actually, I have a lot of teacher buddies, so I may put this card into assembly line mode to crank a bunch out.

I used one of my favorite stamps by Pure Innocence, along with my favorite Cosmo Cricket paper, "Early Bird".

As you can see, I added an old school black board. I love, LOVE chalkboards. See previous post for my blackboard message center in my kitchen.

I have gotten a little chalkboard crazy. Stay tuned for some projects with that nifty paint.

2010-08-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hey!
How's it going? Enjoying your summer?
Today's card is a simple one I created after I saw something like it at Target.
Super easy get well card.
I punched a square for the tissue box, cut a little corner of tissue and glued it on.
Then, I cut out some little slipper.
The sentiment is from a Pure Innocence set...Umbrella.

Stay Fabulous!

2010-08-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hola!
Today's card is a simple birthday card. I was trying to use up the last of my sticky ribbon. It didn't fold into a bow nicely, but with a couple of sticky dots, I got it done.

Summer is coming to a close. It went too fast this year. The kids start school on the 11th. Unbelievable!
I saw Thanksgiving items for sale at Joann's the other day.
I'm so not ready for fall. Not yet. Still enjoying the great weather.
Stay Fabulous!

Sweet Fruit

2010-08-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hello!
Today's card is a quick card for a friend I never get to see.

Used some $1 g studio stamps from Joann's and a layout borrowed by Mary Fish.

Stay Fabulous!

Birthday cake

2010-07-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hello!

Today's card is a sweet birthday card.

This is the first card with a crotchet flower on it. Whatcha think? It took me a couple of days of You Tube to figure out how to make that little sucker. I hope to pop out a couple of more soon.

The inspiration from this card is from a site called Paisley and Polka Dots.
Last spring they had a min album kit that had a cake page that inspired this card. So props to them!

Card Style Fun and Cute Challenge in the Moxie Fab World

2010-07-30T13:14:00.000-07:00

Howdy! Took a few days off to work on some more projects at home and take the kids on a field trip to San Diego. But here I am back with a fun, summer card.

Today's card is a card I would call Fun and Cute.
It's for the Moxie Fab World Card Style Challenge.

It's a waterfall card.
Pull the bottom tab of the card, and the lemon squares (yummm) fold up.

The sentiment is above the pull tab.

Here is a look inside. I made a little pocket to hold a packet of Crystal Light lemonade.

Hope you enjoy!
Stay Fabulous!

Magnetic Chalkboard

2010-07-21T14:47:00.000-07:00

Hello!

Today's project has been in the works for a few months. Finally had the time to put it together. I love chalk and chalkboards. Just wonderful. As a teacher, I think it is literally in my blood. So, I needed a large "message center" in my kitchen. Had a nice magnetic chalkboard from IKEA and a wired photo display, but I wanted to supersize them.

I started with a piece of 24" x 36" aluminum sheeting. Can be found at hardware stores, my from Lowe' . I also purchased a can of chalkboard spray. Pure genius. After wiping the sheet metal down of dust, I sprayed 3 coats of chalkboard paint and let it dry overnight.

Here is where H.H. (Helpful Husband) comes in. He made 2 pilot holes at the top and bottom, then drill the chalkboard into the wall.

Next we trim some MDF board to make a frame. HH nailed it into the wall using his

pneumatic gun. A

great excuse to get out power tools.

Next up, fill in the nail holes and sand smooth.

Tape off the frame for painting.

I used glossy spray paint to complete the frame.

3 coats and 24 hours later...

Tah-Da!

Supersized Message Center.

The beauty is that the chalkboard is magnetized and I can put all kinds of cutie magnets up.

Now this little beauty gets moved to my craft room to display new cards and such.

What kind of projects are you doing this summer?

Hope you enjoy!

Stay Fabulous!

More Baby Stuff

2010-07-20T04:44:00.000-07:00

A sweet couple that work for my husband recently had their first baby. I've been waiting for someone to have a boy so that I could put this yummy quilt together. I bought the fabric last summer and it has been sitting in my craft closet since then.

These rag quilts are so quick and easy to put together.

Of course, I needed a gift bag and tag to go along.

Here are some more Melissa Frances goodies.

Look at the cute Gerber baby face!

Stay Fabulous!

Baby, baby, baby

2010-07-19T04:30:00.000-07:00

My family loves Seinfeld. The kids can quote almost every episode. Sometimes it is strange coming out of a 9 year olds mouth. Here is one of their favorites:

"Jerry, you have to come and see the baaabee"

So here are a fewcards for the "Baaaabee"

I need a new light for the photo box...please excuse the yucky shadows.

I used a couple of Melissa Frances papers and stickers.

Stay Fabulous!

Wedding Card and Tag

2010-07-14T08:05:00.000-07:00

Hello! Anyone out there?

That's my new greeting. I get very few comments :(

so I never know if anyone is out there.

Today's card was one I made for a wedding we attended on Saturday.

The card was inspired/CASE'd from Wendy McKee. She is brilliant and mad about butterflies!

I had an old, small church hymn book that I used the music page from. The flowers were made with my favorite punch, the SU scallop small punch. I used the punch on an old dictionaryto make the flowers. Those pages are the perfect thickness for scrunchy flowers. Of course, I had to make a tag to go with the gift bag. Pretty sweet! Hope the newlyweds enjoy!

Stay Fabulous!

Tropical Paradise

2010-07-13T19:42:00.001-07:00

Hello,

Summer is here and dreams of a vacation with it.

Today's card is a stamped and paper pieces, with tropical stripe.

My first day of the summer that I went into the pool. I don't go in unless its warmish...like degrees. I don't know if it's that warm or not, but the temperature outside was over 94! Whoo Hoo! Finally! Planning a couple of fun days this week...beach, lunch with BFF and crafting.

Stay Fabulous!

Driving Everyone Crazy

2010-07-10T06:06:00.000-07:00

Hi!

Today's card is for my nephew who turns 16. I've had this cute SU truck stamp for a while and this is my first card using it. Don't you find that happens too often? Old stamps get set aside as the new stamps get all the focus.

I have used the last little scraps of this graphic, designer paper.

I hope the soon to be new driver appreciated my humor.

Stay Fabulous!

Birthday Cake

2010-07-09T10:28:00.000-07:00

Hiya!

Today's card was for one of my dearest friends, Tamara. Let's just say we are old friends. She and her family spent the 4th of July with us. I had to make sure she left with a bag of goodies-card, notepad, clips and bookmark.

This birthday card is staring one of my newest stamps.

It's a layered cake...yummy. Ya know how much I love cake.

Speaking of cake, I am counting down the days until wedding cake...this Saturday.

I was recently denied wedding cake. The couple served "Cold Stone" ice cream sundaes.

Cute, but not the same. I NEED some wedding cake!

Stay Fabulous!

Love Ya, Mom

2010-07-08T09:49:00.000-07:00

Hiya!

Mom. She is so wonderful, fun, creative and wise. Last week she drove 3 hours each way as I took my older son to Santa Barbara. On our way home, we stopped to visit my Aunt Pam.

Here is a picture of the three of us (taken by a short 9 year old)

Today's card was for my mom. I want her to know how much I love her.

Still loving the "Citrus" paper by DCWV. I also used a digi stamp and colored with watercolor pencils, and sentiment was embossed with white powder.

Stay Fabulous!

Card for Summer

2010-07-07T05:56:00.000-07:00

Hiya!

Today's card is a reflection of Summer. Now summer (lower case s-) is fun and light and relaxing. And Summer (Captial S-) is my niece. Today is her 13th birthday, so a card for Summer. This card is also my submission for Ingrid's Summer Challenge.

My card is sporting colorful flowers and bedazzled butterflies.

I just think it is sooo cute. I hope she enjoys it.

Stay Fabulous!

Hello!

2010-07-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

Hiya!

Today's card is a quick "HELLO" card. I am working through a pad of DCWV "Citrus" paper and a new little birdhouse stamp.

Just being lazy and enjoying the cool weather. Usually, by July we are into warm, beach weather. Unfortunately, too cold to go to the beach today. So craft we must!

Have a great day!

Craft Room

2010-07-03T12:26:00.000-07:00

I've been on a crafting roll. Pumping out the cards after a crazy and busy spring.

Glad to be back in the saddle.

However, this is what happens when the magic starts. Yikes!

My lovely desk got so crowded, I had to set up an additional table. Never a good sign.

New cuttlebug! Yippee!

Closet storage and my photo light box. Oye!

Father's Day gifts, my old multi-level marketing business crap and outgrown clothing.

Inspiration central!

This hurts my head just looking at these photos.

I just saw some lovely craft rooms over at Two Peas site. I want to cry.

Good thing I have all summer to clean it up.

Enjoy!

Wedding Cake

2010-07-02T12:18:00.000-07:00

Every year, about June, I start jonesing for wedding cake. Just something about it that is so delicious. It's just better than most cake out of a box from my kitchen. So, in preparation for an upcoming wedding, I created this delicious cake.

This card is rocking the cuttlebug embossing folder, and a nestabilities die cut.

Whoo hoo....loving my new toy.

Enjoy!

Summer, part II

2010-07-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

Today's cards are part two of yesterday's post. A duo and trio of butterflies.

Two of my new purchases (thanks to a little birthday mula $ ) was a MS butterfly punch and a Cuttlebug embossing folder. Such fun!

Enjoy!

Hello, Summer

2010-06-30T12:02:00.000-07:00

Summer has arrived. The first couple of week of June were unusually cool. Sometimes, down right cold. Well, that is over and it's beach season. So, today's card is honor of summer and all the happiness it brings. No school. That means no work for me, no homework for the kids, which also means no work for me, and lots of time for crafting. Whoo hoo!

What are you plans for summer?

Enjoy!

Graduation Announcement

2010-06-28T12:49:00.000-07:00

Today's card is my daughter's high school graduation announcement.

Better late than never.

We cranked out about 25 of these babies.

If you notice, graduation was a couple of weeks ago.

I didn't think you would mind. We had a crazy couple of weeks before and after the graduation. Grandparents came to town, pre graduation party, lots of food and decorations. But it was all good. Now we're trying to get the little lady ready for university in the fall.

Whoo- Hoo!

Enjoy!

Birthday Banner

2010-06-26T12:38:00.000-07:00

Buenas Dias!

For today's card, I jumped on the trendy banner bandwagon and I am loving it.

It's going out to my daughter's cute friend in college.

Happy birthday A!

Today is my birthday...so Happy Birthday to me!

I'm spending the day in Santa Barbara with my family.

We're going to find some yummy restaurant and relax.

Paper from DCWV "Citrus"

Enjoy!

Father's Day...for hubby

2010-06-25T20:26:00.000-07:00

Hola Chicas! Hoy tengo una otra tarjeta para padres. Yo hize esta tarjeta para mi esposo.

Ok...enough of that baloney.

This card is highlighting my newest toy...the CUTTLEBUG! Yippee!

Thanks everyone....(Janelle) for your suggestions. I love it.

I got it for my birthday and my first accessory was a Spellbinders label set.

Ooooo lala lala!

So now, just have to figure out all the sandwich recipes and I'll be in the groove.

Enjoy!

Father's Day

2010-06-23T12:12:00.000-07:00

Hola Chicas. Today's card was designed for my crazy dad. My folks live about an hour away, so we had a lovely bbq and Father's Day celebration on Sunday.

Here is the card and treat jar will with pistachios, my dad's favorite snack.

Card close up

The images are embossed with copper powder.

Here is my wacky dad. Gotta love this guy!

He is wearing 2 respiratory masks as ear muffs.

Enjoy!

Shrinky Dinks

2010-06-19T15:04:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

On today's card I tried something new....or actually old. Remember Shrinky Dinks? Well. they're back. I used a die cut to punch out a large butterfly, then stamped it with permenant ink. Bake it in the over until it shrinks about 60 % and gets about 3 times the thickness.

Kinda cool. I think I may have to play a bit with it to see what else I can come up with.

Supplies:

Cardstock: Bazzill "Grenedine"

Designer Paper: American Craft

Tools: Fiskar "Apron" border punch

Stamp: G studio

Embellishmet:Black pearls, Michaels; ribbon from stash

Men or Boys

2010-06-17T14:55:00.000-07:00

Greetings! Today's card was made for the never ending need for a masculine card. I found this layout on Clean and Simple

I loved the fact I could use a bunch of scraps and circles, and a simple sentiment.

Looking forward to sending it out to all my brothers (4), nephews (5), brother-in-laws (2), dads and assorted friends.

Enjoy!

Flowers, version II

2010-06-15T14:50:00.000-07:00

Greetings! Well, it is officially summer here. School ended last Friday, so now it's time to get my craft back on.

Today's card is a cutey patooty that I made at least a year ago. Super easy sneezy flowers made from circle and ribbon/rick-rack. I have very little details to share because the paper is old...I think probably Cosmo Cricket or October Afternoon.

Enjoy!

Flowers, version I

2010-05-22T04:53:00.000-07:00

Good Day! Today's card is one that has been on my list for a few weeks. Seriously, am I the only one that makes a list of cards to create? I usually make a list based on some inspiration/new produce or technique I want to try. I am working on my "flower" list. Since there are so many new flower techniques, I wanted to try them all. This flower is randomly coordinated (is that an oxymoron?) collection of purple scrap paper, cut in scallops/circles. I sprayed each with a little water, crinkled and let dry for a textured appearance. I also found a scrap of Anna Giffin ribbon in my stash. It folds so beautifully.

Enjoy!

An Apple a Day

2010-05-21T04:41:00.000-07:00

Hello! Well, it has been a crazy, busy month. School activities, work, baseball and LaCrosse seasons are almost over...which means more time for crafting! OYE! So, let's get on with the show.

Today's card was inspired/ripped off from Chupa's cute apple card. I thought this was perfect for my kid's teachers appreciations, one in red and one in greed. Still using up some of my favorite Cosmo Cricket Early Bird paper. Delicious!

Enjoy.

April Showers

2010-04-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

We, in southern California, continue to have our April showers. This is the most rain we have had, thankfully, in years. So today's card was inspired by the May flowers I hope to see.

I used a new flower from the $1 bin at Michael's. The kit comes with 9 flowers, each with multiply layers. What a deal! This card is went to a teacher pal I got to work with yesterday. Hope it makes her bday complete. Enjoy!

2010-04-09T20:45:00.000-07:00

Hello Spring!

The family has spent the last 2 days in sunny Palm Desert getting our tans on. Whoo hoo! The desert in the spring after the rain we have had this winter makes for a beautiful scene, filled with.....flowers. You thought I was going to say cactus!

Today's card is a welcome to spring flowers.

This card stars some of my favorite elements....watercoloring and ribbon.

My watercolor is coming along (thank for the support!)

and I have used this really cool woven/cut out ribbon I got at a garage sale.

The tag is tied with floss that is punched through the paper and tied around the "stems".

I am quite happy with this....and spring.

Enjoy

Easter

2010-04-07T09:10:00.000-07:00

Easter came and went.....again.

We had family, food and uplifting words from General Conference.

A great weekend.

Here is the vintage card sent to my Grandmother....who will be 93 in 2 weeks.

Enjoy!

Umbrella Girl

2010-04-01T23:21:00.000-07:00

Today's card stars more Pure Innocence and Cosmo Cricket "Early Bird".

Super simple layout, pretty paper, cute image and a bow. Bada bing!

I am loving the 5 inch square cards. The image was colored with watercolor pencils and paper pieced. This card is going out to my aunt Ann who was just diagnosed with ovarian cancer and had surgery on Monday. Hope this brightens her day.

Supplies:

CS: Kraft and Grenadine by Brazzil, white

DP: Cosmo Cricket "Early Bird"

Ink: Memories Black

Stamp: Pure Innocence "My Umbrella"

Tools: Stampin Up Scallop Border punch

Embellishment: Red ribbon-Michael's

Happiness ...

2010-03-31T23:12:00.000-07:00

Today's card has been on my mind for...forever. I bought this cool paper "Metropolitan" by American Craft and have been waiting for inspiration. I am usually a pastel gal, but I'm never one to turn down a pretty paper. I've been getting a lot of wedding invitations lately, and I needed some pretty cards. This card is very simple, clean and classy.

And my favorite part is the sentiment "happiness". Shouldn't all marriages begin with that?

Supplies:

CS: Black and Robins Egg The Paper Company

DP: American Craft "Metropolitan"

Stamp: g studio

Ink: Black embossing powder

Tools: Stampin' Up Scallop Border punch

Embellishments: Black ribbon, black pearls-Recollections @ Michael's, button @ Joann's.

Baby Girl Fairy

2010-03-30T22:48:00.000-07:00

Today's card is using the color inspiration from CCEE Stampers 1012.

Yummy!

I also used Mercy's sketch MTSC66

One of their designers, Cindy is a Pure Innocence girl, like me.

She made a darling card with Fairy Girl. I can't get enough of that stamp.

So here is my version:

This card is 5 inches square. I colored the image using watercolor pencils and used a little velum to make a pair of wings that pop out. Cute, huh?

My baby brother and his wife are expecting their first child, a girl, in a few weeks. Guess where this card is heading!

Thanks for stopping by :)

Supplies:

CS: Brazzil "Passionate", white

Designer: DCWV "Nana's Nursery Baby Girl

Specialty: Velum

Ink: Memories Black

Stamp: Pure Innocence "Fairy Girl"

Tools: Fiskar Apron Border Punch

Embellishments: Ribbon and rhinestones-Michael's

Easter Take Out Box

2010-03-30T22:19:00.000-07:00

Today's project was inspired by the PPA Challenge "Anything But a Card". I always like to bring treats and candies to friends (if there are any left after I open the package). I thought of decorating this little take out box.

Each side is covered with cardstock and designer paper, and the front has a cute bunny.

But the best part is the candy inside...a "Peep" chick and jelly beans.

Whoo Hoo! Hippity, hoppity Easter's on it's way!

It's spring break and the kids and I went to lunch and to see

Diary of a Whimpy Kid"....hilarious.

Having so much fun, I missed the deadline, again. Sheesh!

Supplies:

Cardstock: Brazzil "Lily Pad", orange, white

Designer: DCWV "Nana's Nursery/Baby Girl

Tools: Scallop punch, circle cutter

Stamps: Stampin Up

Color: Pastel chalks,

Embellishment: Orange ribbon -Michael's

Embellish Color Fabric Challenge

2010-03-25T18:21:00.000-07:00

I spent today in a classroom with thirty-two 5th graders with spring fever. Not fun.

To make myself feel better, here is my card for the

Embellish Fabric Color Challenge

Here is the inspiration:

As soon as I saw the colors, I knew I wanted to use this lovely fabric. I bought it about 2 years ago and used it to make a tote from another previous crafting phase.

Hard to tell the bottom color is actually green. I didn't have time to use the photo box...late for a talent show.

Enjoy!

Supplies:

Caardstock: The Paper Company

Designer: Cosmo Cricket "Early Bird"

Stamp: Frame by G studio

Sentiment: computer

Embellishment: Ribbon from Michael's, button and twine from stash.

8 Color Challenge

2010-03-24T13:19:00.000-07:00

Trying to play in more challenges.

I can hardly wait until spring break when I can go card crazy!

Today's card is for the CARDS 8 Color Challenge.

I thought surely there are 8 colors. Then I thought, well....how many times can I count green? Orange? Teal?

This is what I came up with 9:

Rust

Orange

Green

Lime

Teal

Blue

Yellow

Lavender

and White

Robbie the Robot is saying "HI" using binary code. LED front downloaded from the internet. Here is where being a nerd comes in handy.

Enjoy!

Supplies:

Cardstock: Bazzill

Designer: Recollections Rockets N’ Sprockets Collection, Michael's

Font: LED from internet

Embellishment: Rhinestone from stash, brads

Pure Innocence....

2010-03-24T12:21:00.000-07:00

My inspiration was the CCEE Stampers Challenge.

AND

Just Us Girls Challenge 25

I'm telling you up front, these images are the stinkin'est,

cutest things I've ever seen!

Today's card is my first adventure with "Fairy Girl".

This little cutie is going to my high school girlfriend who has been fighting breast cancer.

She is doing well and just a new job. Way to go Beck!

I stamped a set of wings in velum and popped them out a bit.

Each time I try to color images, I keep thinking....copic markers....copic markers.

But I think the watercoloring will do until I can save my pennies (o.k. big bucks) to buy a set.

Supplies:

Cardstock: White generic, Kraft by The Paper Company, Bazzill "Rain" "Grenadine" and "Guacamole", velum

Designer: Cosmo Cricket (*sigh*) Early Bird mini deck

Stamps: Pure Innocence "Fairy Girl"

Tools: Watercolor pencils, Fiskar "Apron Border" punch, corner rounder

Embellishments: Ribbon "Celebrate" by Michael's, Rhinestone from stash

Happy Spring!

2010-03-21T16:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a beautiful, sunny day.
Did you do anything wonderful to celebrate the arrival of Spring?
I went on a hike/walk with some ladies friends to celebrate a birthday of one of the gals. After the walk, we went to our hostess' grove of avocados, citrus and flowers where she had a lovely table set for our lunch.
Doesn't this setting just scream
"SPRING!"

Here is the card and notepad I made for the birthday girl.

I just love my Early Bird mini deck. I want to wallpaper my life with it!
I guess I'll do that one project at a time.
Happy Birthday S.B.!

Supplies:
CS Paper: Bazzil paper
DP: Cosmo Cricket "Early Bird"
Stamps: Inkado
Ink: Brillance "Coco"
Tools: Scallop punch, corner rounder, circle punch, apron border punch, flower punch, sewing machine
Embellishments: floss & buttons, ribbon "Celebrate" from Michael's.

Clovers

2010-03-17T12:19:00.000-07:00

OK.....I think I've got the green clover thing out of my system. Just went a little crazy with the heart punch and rhinestones and happy green. Oh...sweet spring. Going to go sit and soak up the sun in my backyard. Going to be 85 today!Supplies:

CS: Primary green, The Paper Company, others from stash

DP: DCWV "clover"

Tools: Small scallop punch, small heart punch, 1 1/2 circle punch

Ink: Ranger Distress "Vintage Photo"

Embellishments: Ribbon, stash; Rhinestones from Michael's

Lucky

2010-03-17T12:03:00.000-07:00

Today's card was suppose to be for the PPA challenge. Yikes! Missed it again. Oh Well.Little League was more important yesterday.

This card is destined for greatness. You know that Jason Mraz song "Lucky"....

I dedicate that to my husband, Big Daddy.

Lucky I"m in love with my best friend,

Lucky to have been where I have been,

Lucky to be coming home again.

Lucky we're in love in everyway,

Lucky to have stayed where we have stayed,

Lucky to be coming home....today.

I took a couple of the kids to a family reunion, got back and saw him for about an hour before he had to leave on a business trip. He works crazy hours, travels lots, but is a wonderful man. This card is for him.

Lucky to have you, Honey!

Supplies:

Paper: CS Kraft and Primary Green, The Paper Company; White-super mega pack at Staples.

Stamp: G studio

Ink: G studio white

Embellishments: Hemp twine, Walmart; Button, stash ( I think JoAnn's)

Top O' the Morning

2010-03-17T04:39:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

I spend another day in Kindergarten yesterday. I have tried to make myself a permanent fixture in the K, but with layoffs and such, it looks like I will remain "retired" and a regular sub. Oh well. One of my favorite classes is Mrs. B. She is completely creative, artistic and a great teacher to boot. Last year on St. Patrick's Day she really when to town. Student's work on the wall was hung upside down, gold coins were left on the student's desks, one little girl's water turned green in her water bottle. But maybe the funniest was her husband came in and took off his shoe and sock and showed the kids how the leprechaun had painted his foot green. Hilarious.

Today's card is for Mrs. B and was inspired by this little guy.

Isn't he cute?!

I made this card for Mrs. B.

Hope she enjoys the day.

If anyone is interested, I have a pattern for the hat and directions for the paper piecing.

Supplies:

Paper: CS green- The Paper Company; designer clover downloaded from internet (www.vintageholidaycrafts.com); others scrap pile

Tools: Marvy scallop punch 3", circle punch, hole punches, small heart punch

Embellishments: rhinestones, pastels on cheeks

Lovely Lassie

2010-03-16T16:29:00.000-07:00

Today's card in another vintage image download from the internet. This lovely lassie and lad were just to cute to pass up. I added some polkadot background and cream ribbon. It's for a teacher friend Erin O'S. She is the most Irish gal I know, so I thought she'd enjoy. She was my teaching partner for 3 weeks when I was doing a long term subbing in Kindergartner. Oye! I forgot what the first week of K was like! I should have gotten paid extra that week. She was so great. Anyways, I left it in her mail box this afternoon. Hope it makes her Wednesday delightful.

Supplies:

Image: Downloaded from internet (www.vintageholidaycrafts.com)

Paper: CS Bazzil cream, DCWV premade card; Designer paper-K Studio

Tools: Fiskar Apron Border Punch

Ink: Ranger Distress Ink-Vintage Photo

Embellishments: Cream ribbon from Michaels, flower and brad from stash

Vintage St. Patrick's Girl

2010-03-11T16:24:00.000-08:00

Today's card was inspired from a Valentine's card I saw last month at Jennifer Holmes' blog. The main image was downloaded from Vintage Holiday Crafts. I love, Love, LOVE the images there. I will be making quite a few St. Pat and Easter cards using some of these images. Isn't she sweet. My friend Heather was born on St. Patrick's day, so I think this will be her bday card.

Supplies: CS- Ivory, DP K diamond, K Studio pink

Stamp: Ranger Distressing Ink-Vintage Photo

Tools: Fiskar small heart punch & small circle punch

Embellishment: Button, ribbon and floss from stash

I'm back....

2010-03-10T16:05:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's been almost a month since my last post. I have been busy with lots of stuff at home...working a lot (ca-ching! tuition for my daughter who will be starting college in the fall), Little League and high school LaCrosse has begun. Oh, and just for good measure, youngest child has been sick and tried to bring me down with him. Turkey!

Here is a card I made a few weeks ago. I sent it out for my aunt for her birthday, and forgot to post. Doy! It's bold and graphic and really clean. I looked for a sentiment that I haven't used in ...forever.

I think I am back to posting regularly...so that's for coming back.

Enjoy!

Supplies:

Paper: CS/ Bazzill-French Silk (I think); DP American Craft(patterned and red)

Ink: Versmark and white embossing

Stamp: Lexion of Love from SU

Tools: Fiskar Apron border punch, corner rounder

Embellishments: Ribbon- Celebrate from Michael's, button and floss from Joann's

2010-02-19T20:10:00.000-08:00

Today's card is for my sister-in-law. Happy Birthday Chandilicious! It is also my first attempt at watercoloring. Yikes! I have been admiring Copic coloring for ages and am totally intimated. Watercolor pencils...ehhh. Forget the gamsol trick..so complicated. So what is left...the ink/watercolor trick. I suppose it helps when the correct paper is used. Oh, well. Keep trying.

Supplies:

Cardstock-Bazzill Basics

Designer Paper: Studio K Meadow and Breeze

Stamp: "Love ya bunches" SU, "for you" G-studio

Punches: Fiskars-Apron Scallop, Round scallop

Button, ribbon & paper swirl: Stash

Mojo Monday 126

2010-02-17T20:03:00.001-08:00

Today's card was inspired by Mojo Monday 126. This design has soooo much going on, I had to cut back a bit.

It's for my friend's birthday. Happy Bday Vicki!

Supplies:

Cardstock: Bazzill Basics

DP: Studio K-Meadow and Breezes

Punches: Fiskars-Apron Scallop, Round Scallop

Stamp: Love without End

Ink: Brillance-Coco

Button: Stash

Candy Hearts

2010-02-10T19:23:00.000-08:00

Today's card was inspired when I ate a handful of candy conversation hearts.

{Later I felt like throwing up. A little too sweet and chalky...but that's the candy talking}

The hearts were cut from a template with scallop scissors, then edges were swiped with SU "Rose Romance" ink. Can Valentine's day be in March? I'm not quite done with all of this sweetness, hearts and fluff.

Enjoy!

Supplies:

Cardstock; Bazzill Basic "Chablis"

Designer Paper: Me & my big ideas

Stamps: Studio G "Alphabet Series 3"

Ribbon: "Celebrate It", Michael's

Buttons: Stash, floss DMC

Paper Flower: Dictionary pages

Punch: Fiskar "Apron Scallop"

Doilies have arrived

2010-02-09T19:48:00.000-08:00

Another V-day card. My daughter Sweet Pea kept telling me I hadn't made a card with a doilies. I found a package of 36 "dainty doilies" at Michael's and began to cut them up. I added sparkely chipboard letters and a buttony/heart embellishment, and don't forget the ubiquitous scallop punch.

Mojo Monday 125

2010-02-08T23:53:00.000-08:00

Today's card is a Mojo Monday design. Here is this weeks inspiration:

I haven't played in a while, but I had this round image all ready to go. The half circle was a bit of a booger to get even. Here is my interpretation:

My card is missing a little piece under the bow. I think I am the only one on the planet that doesn't have a cutting maching....Sizzix, Cricuit, Cuttlebug, etc. I have trying to decide what to get. After seeing PTI's new dies, I want one even more!
Anyone have any suggestions? I am leaning towards Cuttlebug.

Supplies:

Designer paper: Me & My Big ideas

Cardstock: Bazzill Basic "Chablis"

Ribbon: "Celebrate It" Michaels

Image: "Celebrate It" mini notecards (12 for 60 cents!!)

Rhinestone stickers: Darice from Michaels

Valentine rip off

2010-02-08T19:40:00.000-08:00

No...don't get me wrong. I don't think Valentine's Day is a rip off. In fact, I quite enjoy it. On the 18th I will be celebrating the 21st anniversary of the day my husband and I were married. We celebrate both lovey days together. Yikes!!! 21 years. How can that be? I'm only 28.

So the rip off is actual the card. I borrowed/stole/was inspired by a favorite creator, Michelle Wooderson. So, thanks Mish!

Vintage Valentine's

2010-02-02T00:17:00.000-08:00

Today's card was inspired by an old, really old stamp I've had for at least 15 years. I love this floral wreath and was channeling my inner "Melissa Frances", although it's not nearly fluffy and pretty enough for MF! Heheee.

I printed out Shakespeare's sonnets onto cardstock on my compy, then embossed my image. Added some cute buttons, a ribbon and lace piece from my stash, and a little sentiment on velum. Badda-bing! Ohhh, can't forget my favorite Ranger Vintage ink for the edges.

Enjoy!

p.s. still working on a watermark. Any suggestions for improvement?

HOLY COW!

2010-02-01T11:23:00.000-08:00

I think I may have figured out the illusive "good" photo trick. After surfing and looking at tons of blogs, I just couldn't get my cards to look so great on this blog. I have a pile of cards I didn't want to post because the pictures looked so...Yuck! After more surfing, I think I have come upon the answer....Light Tent. Yep, I'm sure you already knew that. I guess I missed that day in class. Oh well, on my way to better and prettier cards. YIPPEE!

Here's a good example of the before and after.

Before: Flat and color distorted because of flash

After: Bright with depth and dimension.

This Valentine's card was inspired by the Crush bottle cap. The inside reads:

"I've got one on you"

Have a great day!

Robot Birthday

2010-01-31T23:09:00.000-08:00

Always needing birthday cards, this month I decided to do a few for little boys....or young boys. My son is 9 and would have a fit if I called him "little". It seems that I never have a enough great "boy" card...so here is Robbie Robot, Gary Gizmo and Sammy Sprocket. And continuing with the theme of completing the inside of the card, I took the patterned paper there too!

You'll notice that I did not use a stamp. Instead, I used the computer to print out the binary code that "spells out" HI.

Supplies:

Paper: Cardstock-Brazzil, Designer paper-"Rockets & Sprocket" by Recollections @Michael's.

Buttons and ribbon from stash.

Font: LED downloaded from internet.

Stepping Outside

2010-01-27T22:18:00.000-08:00

of my comfort zone, that is. I am a pastel girl down deep. But last year, found this fun paper. Yeap, a year. Sat in my drawer for a long time. Then, on one of my candy orange slice binges, I had an idea. Purple and orange for Valentines. I've been working with a lot of traditional pink, white and red, but this was so much fun. And of course, have to share my candy favorites with the card. And yes, more clips, with paper and {sing along with me} "Moooodge Poooodge".

All in all, guaranteed to cause cavities!

Enjoy!

Sympathy

2010-01-17T20:48:00.000-08:00

Today's card was created for my dear friend. Her mother suddenly passed away and I wanted to send her a card with my love, thoughts and prayers. These types of cards are so difficult. Here are three different versions. Still not sure which I like best.

The other difficult thing is the sentiment. What do you write in a sympathy card? I struggle to say the right thing..something comforting. Any ideas?

Thanks for stopping by!

Big Fluffy Love

2010-01-14T21:32:00.000-08:00

Hi!

Another card for Valentine's. This one features a sweet, fluffy bow. I just love it! I think it's probably been "snatched" from my mom's house. She is a floral designer and bow crazy gal. Whenever she sends gifts, they always have beautiful wrapping paper and lovely ribbon. I have boxes of bows ready to be reused in way or another.

Let me know what you think!
Designer Paper: Chatterbox "Adore"

Cardstock: Red- Bazill, cream & pink from my stash

Ribbon: French wired ribbon repurposed :)

Punch: Fiskar Apron Lace border

Scissors: Small scallop Back Street

Stamp: Inkadinkado by EK Success

Ink: a la Mode White embossing powder by Hampton Art

Be Mine

2010-01-13T21:24:00.000-08:00

Hello!

Today's card is the first of the Valentine's selection. I have been so excited to use a couple of stamps I purchased last year. I am determined to have all of my Valentine's completed BEFORE Feb 14th, unlike Christmas this year. Sheesh! One down...several to go.

Enjoy!
Designer Paper: Chatterbox "Adore"

Cardstock: Red, cream and pink from Bazzill paper

Embellishments: ribbon and button from stash

Stamp Sentiments: G studio & Inkado; heart Penny Black

Ink: White embossing powder WHITE a la Mode by Hampton Art, Ruby Red Stampin Up.

Disney Note Set

2010-01-11T20:22:00.000-08:00

This note set was created with my Disney friend in mind.Who ever came up with the Disney color theme: Bravo! Red, yellow, white and black. Love it!!!

Same layout as the previous sets. I hope she enjoys it.

I think the clips turned out so cute.

Enjoy!

Fonts: Pharmacy from internet

Designer Paper: Mickey Paper Red Polka Dot, Mickey Balloons Blue, Sandy Lion; Yellow Gingham.

Punch: Marvy 3" scallop circle.

Stickers: Mickey, EK Success.

Ribbons and Buttons: Stash

Pretty Birthday Floral

2010-01-10T19:57:00.000-08:00

Pretty florals were the inspiration for this card. I love the way the banner turned out. I made this to go along with one of my note sets for one of my dear friends.

On this card I used one of my new tools, the Fiskar apron border punch. It is soooo lovely. Be prepared to see it on everything for the next little bit ...{cheesy smile}

Enjoy!

Paper: Anna Griffin Purple solid, Purple Victorian, Purple floral

Ribbon: Anna Griffin lavender

Punch: Fiskar Apron Lace Border punch

Cardstock: Bazzil paper- "Guacamole"

Ink: Ranger Distress Ink Photo Vintage, Stampin Up Old Olive

New Year Note Set

2010-01-08T07:21:00.000-08:00

I am fortunate to have several good friends. Indeed! However, 4 of them have birthdays this week. Yikes! I have been trolling my blogroll and found some fabulous ideas I put together to make a gift set. It includes a notepad, bookmark, 12 month calendar, reminder clips and a pen.

Shout Out! to those who shared their ideas.

Michelle @ Mish Mash for the notebook and clips

and Nancy @ Paper Smiles for the calendar

The notepad has a 4 1/2 x 11 inch lined notepad.

Clever calendar has 3 months on each side to correlate with each season. Just untie the ribbon and flip it over.

Clips to remind and hold important stuff together.

I have a new weapon in my crafting arsenal-Modge Podge! Awesome! I was singing "I love Modge Podge" for an hour after I finished these. My husband doesn't hear that stuff anymore. He just tunes me out!

I printed out the labels on the compy using the font "Pharmacy" and attached to clothes pin with Modge Podge. After they dried, they have a nice, matte coat that will wipe off, just in case.

This was also fun because I used all kinds of trinkets, including the "shrinky dinks" I made. I stamp the images, cut out and shrink in the oven. Be sure to punch holes in the center to thread ribbon. Then hot glue in place.

Finally, the bookmark. Stamped images and added coordinating papers. My favorite part is a place to write down the books to be read or what to read. I always forget when I hear of a good book. So, at least it will be written down for a year! I have a bunch of the plastic bookmarkcases, sorry I don't know where they are from. I got them as part of my last "multilevel marketing adventure". Ha!

Oh Fragglerock! (That's my swear word) I forgot to take a picture, but there is also a pen. I used an ink pen with a clear barrel to slip in a piece of the stripped paper. Everyone needs a matching pen!

Supplies:

Paper: Deja View-Blue Raspberry "Collage", "Striped", and "Paisley", cardstock-violet.

Stamps: Stampin Up "Love without End"

Ink: g studio, Joann's.

Ribbon: "Dashes, dots and checks"- Michael's

Buttons and trinkets: My stash

Shrink Film: Grafix

Clothes Pins: Walmart

Wintery Snowman

2010-01-07T14:35:00.000-08:00

Today's card is really about a month late. Oh well. He is just so smiley I couldn't resist. Mr. Snowman lives in a very cold place, probably next door to my sister-in-law freezing her toosh off in Minnesota. While I, on the other hand, had to turn on the air conditioner so I didn't bake in my car this morning. Beautiful, sunny and 73 degrees. That's how we do winter here. Oh, but still longing for a snowman. Maybe I'll make one out of lemons from my tree!

This card is a Re-Deux- meaning the base was from something else. I think it was an invitation to a women's auxillary Christmas dinner last year. I added Mr. Snowman, "Happy Holidays" sentiment (on a velum pocket) , and Let it Snow!- all heat embossed in white. There are also some clear, crystal embossed snowflakes on the blue background, but they are difficult to see in the photo.

Happy Winter- Enjoy!

Mr. Lemon Man

Mojo Monday 120

2010-01-04T20:14:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday!

Today's card design comes courtesy of Mojo Monday . It's the finishing touch on a gift set that I have put together for a dear friend's birthday. Keep your eyes open...it will be posted in a day or two.

Stamps are a mix of Stampin Up "Love without End" and some other clear pack. The coordinating paper is Deja Views Blue Raspberry Paisley and Stripe. Assorted brad, ribbon and button from my stash.

Enjoy!

Sweet Cherries

2010-01-04T20:06:00.000-08:00

I finally broke down and opened up my Cosmo Cricket Early Bird mini deck. Wow! What a mouthful. I bought this paper a few months ago and have been waiting until after the holidays to bust out something sweet and vintage. I love the colors and patterns. I especially enjoy the mini decks because the patterns are smaller. They don't get lost on a card.

Anyways, a super shout out to an influential blogger, Tosh. She has a lovely style of distressing the edges of the paper. I have completely CASE'd that technique from her. Thanks Tosh!

The paper is Cherry Pie (of course) and Brunch. The cherry stamp is $1 g Studio, and red bias tape from Joann's. Oh, and don't forget the distress ink by Ranger in vintage photo.

Birthday Cupcakes

2010-01-03T19:53:00.000-08:00

The current trend in snacks is cupcakes. I love this trend! There is a fantastic little cafe in St. George Utah that make the most delicious cuppies. It's called Twentyfive Main Cafe and Cupcake. My favorite flavors are coconut and vanilla raspberry. They are delightful! I could eat 2 or 3 at a sitting. My sister lives there and I need to think of excuses to visit. I can't just say "I'm here for the cupcakes". How rude!

Well, now that I am craving fluffy, sweet frostings, I'll leave you with these little cupcake cards.

Enjoy!

For Emma

2010-01-02T19:11:00.002-08:00

My little friend and neighbor Emma is turning 5. Here is the gift bag I created to hold her little poodle Webkins. If you don't know what a Webkins is, see a 2nd grader. I wanted to make it special for her. She is a girlie girl and loves pink.

Enjoy!

Christmas Card 1

2010-01-02T19:11:00.001-08:00

I know...don't look at the date. I am still pretending it is December 17th....so just go with me on this.

This is one of the Christmas cards I sent out this year. I wanted to try and use the traditional colors that coordinated with the designer paper that I have had....forever. Seems I have a lot of that stuff. I am still sending cards out this week...yep, New Year's and all.

What a darling family! This picture was taken at my brother's wedding this past August. I knew it would be the perfect time for the family snappy. Notice the little boy in the front. He will forever be truly represented in the Anderson Family history as "grumpy pants". He thinks it is funny. Urrrgh!

Happy Holidays! ( I'm thinking MLK, Jr. Day?)

Whoooty-Hoot

2009-12-07T23:12:00.000-08:00

Today's card is an a cute owl birthday card. I am always on the prowl for a masculine birthday card. I think this one will do the job.

The stamp is from the $1 bin at Mike's, the leaf and branch from $1 g studio clear stamps (probably from Mike's also) and sentiment is from Stampin' Up, recently inherited from my sister (Thanks Jen!), and Old Olive stamp pad. DP is from DCWV "Indian Summer". I love that stack! Beautiful fall color coordinated.

Enjoy

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T07:21:00.000-08:00

Sending out my warmest wishes for a happy Thanksgiving because today it will be 80 degrees! Yeah! Love running the air conditioner in November. My warmest wishes also include a yummy harvest snack called a "Blessing Mix", filled with all kinds of sweet, salty and crunchy treats.

I packed them in a cello bag then created a "sleeve" to wrap it in. The sleeve is made from one 12 x 12 inch designer paper, cut in half.

Then I glued the two long ends together to make a 6" x 24" strip. Wrapped that around the bag, stapling at the top. Then made a topper and attached with super sticky tape.

Hope my friends enjoy it!

Gobble, Gobble.

Easel Card

2009-11-21T00:14:00.001-08:00

Today's card is a birthday card for my lovely mother-in-law.

I have wanted to make one of these for a long time. Very fun and easy!

It's an easel card meant to be displayed.

Under the front is a blank spot to write a personal message.

Enjoy!

Yee-Hawww!

2009-11-17T13:06:00.001-08:00

Today's card was inspired by my nephew Wesley. He is part Samoan, part cowboy and ALL boy.

His mom, my cute sis (Hi Jen!!!) bribed, I mean, rewarded him for something terrific he did and his prize was a cowboy belt with shiny buckle. I think I'll have to save one of these for his next birthday.

Yee Haw!

Sweet Treats Box

2009-11-14T20:39:00.000-08:00

I know....it's been a month, and I was doing so well. Then came October. It's always crazy. But here is something new and darling! A sweet treat box filled with chocolates, of course. I made this as a thank you to a friend who helped judge a photography contest at the elementary school. She did it at the last minute, being 8 months pregnant and I am sooo grateful!

I C.A.S.E.d the idea from Cosmo Cricket blog (p.s. I love their paper...can't find it anywhere in the valley...stupid stores closing all over town!)

The box is made from 1 sheet of 12 x 12 two-sided designer paper. How cool is that!

I made a 6 inch topper, folded in half, and added a scallop edge.

Look at those Reese's peanut butter cups all snuggled inside that cute little box.

It's a good think I don't like those! HAhaaa!

Enjoy:}

Frankie

2009-10-12T21:26:00.000-07:00

Here is Frankie, my scary Halloween monster.

Actually, he looks tired/goofy. He was so simple to construct. Eyes were made with 1 3/8" circle punch and hair was freehanded jagged. A little sponging on the edges and mouth and "scars" with pen. Enjoy!

Happy Harvest

2009-10-09T23:12:00.000-07:00

Hi friends,

Today's card is my new cuteness. It makes me smile with simplicity. The designer paper is from Papertrey's "Autumn Abundance. I am loving the fact that Papertrey makes "card maker scaled" paper in a super smart 8x8" portfolio. Sweet! The olive green, yukon gold and berry cardstock from Bazzil. The sentiment is from one of the G studio $1 from Jojo's.

Sweet Pea keeps asking me what I am going to do with all of these cards? I have NO idea. I only know so many people, Grandma's, etc... to send cards to. What is a girl to do?

Mojo Monday 106

2009-10-08T20:35:00.000-07:00

Hola! Here is my submission for the Mojo Monday challenge.

This is the second week in a row I have tried the challenge. I dedicate my Mojo Monday card to using up the TONS of designer paper I have squirreled away. This was a pretty floral I have been dying to use. I also tried out my new G Studio ink from the $1 bin at Jojo's. It's sparkly!!! I liked the second card better that the first...too much pattern going on there.

This week's winner get a $24 Verve stamp!! Yeah. . . Cute stuff.

Let me know what you think! Enjoy!!!

Banner

2009-10-05T10:43:00.000-07:00

Shout Out to Sweet Pea who created my awesome new banner on both my blogs. She is completely talented and I am jealous. However, I know how to clean and cook, so we make a great team. Love you girl!

WCMD

2009-10-04T22:25:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was World Card Making Day and I was thinking about some of my peeps who are Disney Freaks. They aren't true freaks. They just REALLY, REALLY like Disney stuff: sticker's on their cars, annual Disney cruises,chatting on Dis message boards online, annual park passes, dressing their kids up in several different outfits when they go to the park. You know who you are Susie, Sonia, Kim....

Just hope you guys don't have like Disney Thanksgiving china or something crazy.

Yep, probably gave someone an idea.

Well, don't look because this is your birthday card!

Do you get it? Many...Minnie? Is that too punny or just dumb?

I've had this Minnie stamp FOREVER. I can't even remember...maybe 10-12 years. Anyways, I think this was the first time I have every loved using it. I think I used it when grading papers. Whatever! But I used my virtual friend Deb P's layout from a card swap we did together. She is a genius! I hate giving away her cards.

All the paper is from Jojo's

Yellow paper was "Hot Off the Press" Gingham and
Red was Sandy Lion "Mickey Paper - Red Polka Dots"
Black tiny dotted is "Die Cuts with a View"

Let me know whatcha think!

Welcome to My Creative Stuff

2009-10-03T20:34:00.000-07:00

My life is just sooo thrilling, that I need 2 blogs. At "Currently Crafting...", that is exactly what you will find. Of course, it is all subjective. If it were total garbage, you wouldn't see it at all. This will be the stuff I love, and very proud of, or makes me giggle with crafty excitement.

Enjoy!!

These were made out of left over girls' camp stuff. The stamp is from JoJo's $1 collection.

I am quite proud of this little lady. I was goofing around with my circle punches and thought this would be cute. Whatcha think?