Berry Pine Stamping

$99 Starter Kit + Free Project Kit!

2011-07-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

During July, you can join the Stampin' Up! family as a demonstrator for only $99! This limited time Starter Kit—valued at $185—comes with the following high-quality products:

Easy Events Clear-Mount Set*
Pennant Parade Wood-Mount Set*
Basic Black Classic Stampin' Pad
Old Olive Classic Stampin' Pad
Pumpkin Pie Classic Stampin' Pad
Real Red Classic Stampin' Pad
Brights 8-1/2" x 11" Assorted Card Stock
Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper*
Chocolate Chip 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon*
Note Cards (20)
Clear-Mount Block C
Blender Pen (1)
SNAIL Adhesive
Business supplies

*Brand new to the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog!

Plus, join in July and get a FREE Christmas Keepsake project kit—a $40 value! Imagine an afternoon spent chatting with friends while creating something beautiful—isn't that what Stampin' Up! is all about? But act now because this special kit is only available as part of this limited-time offer.

Join Stampin' Up! in July and get brand-new products, including an exclusive project kit—all for just $99! Contact me to get started today.

Bag yourself a Bargain!

2011-04-01T16:18:00.005-05:00

Beginning today, April 1, and continuing while supplies last, you will be able to purchase special "grab bags" in my Online Store. These grab bags will come in three sizes: the $5, the $10, and the $15 grab bag. Each bag will contain a variety of discontinued products that could include a combination of any of the following: ribbons, Accents & Elements, chipboard, Designer Series Papers, and Simply Sent kit components. Grab bags will not contain stamp sets or tools.

Please keep the following in mind:

Grab bag orders can only be placed in the Online Store.
There is no minimum purchase required to participate in the grab bag special offer.
There is no limit to the number of grab bags a customer may purchase; however, grab bag items are only available while supplies last.
All grab bag sales are final. There are no refunds or exchanges.
Not all grab bags will be unique.
You should use the following item numbers when ordering grab bags:

Item	Description
125873	$5 Grab Bag (containing at least $20 worth of products!)
125874	$10 Grab Bag (containing at least $40 worth of products!)
125875	$15 Grab Bag (containing at least $60 worth of products!)

Remember this is an online special from my store.
Happy GRAB-BAG-ing!

While you are online make sure you check out the Clearance Rack. It changes a lot, so check back often. In the last two days they've added a ton of markers, ribbons, and inks to mention a few of the additions. Even when you think you're at the end of the pages, click on the little forward circle there's hidden pages!

Sneak Peak new catalog promotion

2011-03-31T23:56:00.000-05:00

Spring is blossoming with Sneak Peek products
from upcoming 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog!

Promotion dates: April 1-30, 2011

Promotion details: Spring is Blossoming with Sneak Peek products from the upcoming 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog. You can get these brand-new products in one of two ways:

Spend $20* on any Stampin' Up! products and become eligible to purchase both the Four Frames Set and Paisley Petals Designer Series Paper.
Host a $350* workshop and get the Four Frames Set and Paisley Petals Designer Series Paper for FREE!
Hostess may choose either the wood-mount or clear-mount set. Clear blocks are not included in the clear mount set.

*Net sales before tax and shipping

Have you been dreaming of owning a Big Shot?

2011-03-29T16:23:00.008-05:00

What would you think if I told you I'm going give someone a Big Shot, an embossing folder, pay your shipping & taxes, plus give you 4 Free lessons so you know how to use it? Read on...

Wouldn't this make a nice Mother's Day gift?

First Lutheran Church is doing fundraising for a team of kids that will be going to Tanzania this summer. I am offering ONE silent auction Big Shot package. The Stampin' Up! package value is ~~$173.70~~ $138.55 plus you'll get $60 in free classes bringing the total package value to ~~$233.70~~ $198.55 It includes the following:

~~2 Sale-a-bration stamp sets - value up to $14.95 each~~
Sizzix Big Shot Machine - $99.95
Your choice of embossing folder (pg.214) - $7.95
2010-2011 Idea Book & Catalog - $9.95
Shipping and Taxes - $25.95
4 Free Big Shot classes, I want you to know how to use it! - value $15 each class

Bidding starts at $100 and ends
midnight ~~March 30~~ April 24th

I will contact winner ~~on Thursday~~ ~~the 31st~~ on Monday April 25th to finalize your order. Cash or check should be made out to First Lutheran Church, Fergus Falls, MN. You may come get your package or I will delivered it if within 50 miles.

To bid (in increments of $5) simply add a comment to this post. ~~Include in your comment which 2 items you want from the~~ ~~SALE-A-BRATION~~ ~~mini catalog.~~ Remember to check back often to see where your bid is.

Happy Bidding!

The Sizzix Big Shot for Stampin' Up! product line is a BIG deal! Cut over 50 materials with the Big Shot and duplicate creative and intricate designs quickly and easily. Get exclusive dies that coordinate with current Stampin' Up! product lines as well as standard Sizzix dies.

UPDATE: I've had a lot of lookers but no bids. I would love to see someone get this little package and the church team raise some cash so I'm extending the bidding until midnight April 24th (Easter Day). So tell your families you'd love to get this for Mother's day. The SALE-A-BRATION promotion has ended which means I no longer can get those 2 stamp sets for you. Sorry. The Stampin' Up! package value is now $138.55 and with the 4 FREE classes the total value of this package is $198.55

Summer mini Bicycle Shoebox swap

2010-05-18T00:54:00.000-05:00

I participated in 3 different swaps this last weekend. For this shoebox swap we were to use the Summer mini stamp sets, I choose Pedaling Past (pg. 7). We were to have all the pieces cut and ready to assemble in 5 minutes. Uff-da, for me, quick and easy is always a challenge. But look look:

I done good didn't I?

45 Graduation cap cards

2010-05-17T23:11:00.004-05:00

You're looking at 45 graduation cap "spring" cards. This time I almost followed the spring card directions without changing too much.

These cards fit in the medium envelops. When the graduate pulls out the card the cap springs up. 40 of these are for the Minnesota Leadership swap that I signed up for plus a few for the graduation parties we have been invited to attend.

Water Color Trio Swap

2010-05-17T22:56:00.001-05:00

Here's the card I made for the Summer mini swap I was in last weekend:

Continuing your stamped image off the matted layer

2010-05-13T23:28:00.050-05:00

Have you ever wondered how they get those images to line up from the background onto the matted layer?

Colors: Whisper White, Rich Razzleberry, Old Olive, Bashful Blue

Punches: Large oval, Scalloped oval, Hearts edge punch, Scalloped circle (mask for clouds)

Stamping alignment Tip: Using dotto adhesive (pg. 192) temporarily attach the white layer on the old olive background layer. Stamp your images. Remove the top layer and attach the razzleberry mat. Now re-align these layers and attach with dimensionals.

Graduation cards & Shower cards Monday Mini May 10th

2010-05-08T23:35:00.060-05:00

It's that time of the year when you need to have cards on hand for graduations and wedding showers. Here's the cards that my stampers made for the Monday mini class, May 10th.

This first card is a very quick and easy card:

This next card, I would call a fun funky fold. When I saw the spring fold cards, they reminded me of a graduation cap. I eliminated one of the folds from that pattern and switched around a couple other folds to make the gift pocket. What do you think?

Stampin' Up!s ribbons only unravel from one direction. Therefore if you tie a knot on the one end and unravel the other, you'll have an easy tassel. Attach it to the top of the card/cap on the other side of the knot that is not unraveled, trim any excess ribbon. When the graduate lifts up the cap, it will reveal a pocket where you can place a gift card, cash and a small note letting them know it's from you.

I'm so loving the Big Shot embossing folders. Seems like my cards are missing something when I don't use at least one of the embossing folders. Here's the punchy shower card that was made, with just a little bit of stamping.

Isn't the crunchy punch flower just adorable? It's no secret I need to work on my photography skills, there really is 3 different pinks.

Punching Tip For Layering: For perfectly centered punches when doing multiple layers, start with the smallest punch, add adhesive and attach to the next layer, then center and punch.

Tip for Punching Corners: If you are having trouble with the new corner punches, curl the tip with your fingernail. Then when you slide the paper in, the tip will catch in the corner so you don't go to far.

BACKORDERS ON RETIRING COLORS

2010-05-06T22:55:00.034-05:00

Snippets from the Stampin' Up! back order announcement that I thought you'd like to know about:

With our recent Color Renovation announcement, we have experienced a spike--much greater than anticipated--in demand for some of our retiring colors. You may have noticed in the backorder report that a significant number of colors in both card stock and re-inkers have gone into backorder status, and we recognize the frustration this may have caused you.

For re-inkers in retiring colors, as we run out, they will be placed on backorder status and those orders will be filled as quickly as we receive the product. We will continue to do this to the best of our ability through May, and then the re-inkers will be available while supplies last in June.

Card stock presents a bit larger problem, as the process of ordering and producing new paper from the paper mills is very involved, and we can't order significant quantities at this point in time without putting the production of the new colors in jeopardy (and we know you want those!). To help us be able to provide you with the card stock in the retiring colors for as long as possible, we will be substituting textured paper for some of the smooth colors--including card stock in 8-1/2" x 11" as well as 12" x 12"--where the smooth is no longer available.

Mother’s Day Pansys

2010-05-03T20:28:00.137-05:00

OMG! These pansy's are so adorable. Here is the Mother's day card that stampers made at my Monday mini class on May 3rd.

Colors: Crushed Curry, Very Vanilla, Rich Razzleberry, Glorious Green, Shimmmer White

Punches: Bird, wing & branch; Butterfly, Wide oval, Scalloped oval

Big Shot: Manhattan Floral embossing folder, Top note die

Accessories: Fire & Ice brads, Curry Polka dot ribbon

Can you believe it's made from our butterfly punch - yeah sure you betcha' - look again - see. How cool is that?

Okay I know I'm not the best photographer, but those little specks on the flowers are actually the sparkles that are in the shimmer white paper. I'm so proud I was able to capture the shimmer. These are so spectacular in real life.

The larger leaves are the wings from the bird punch. At first the leaves looked so flat and out of place, therefore to add dimension to the leaves, I used the mat pack (pg 191) and Empressor stylus (pg 188). The stylus is like a ball point pen without ink, it rolls so smoothly.

DRY EMBOSSING TIP: Hold the leaves at the base, start pressing at the tip and pull towards you. If you start at the branch and push towards the tip of the leaf, the leaves have the tendency to rip and pull off the branch.

Dawn Olchefske is the very talented demo and creator from right here in Minnesota. Check out her "How to" video tutorial and make sure you leave her a comment. Thank you Dawn for sharing!

Friends, Flowers & Faith Grow in God's Love

2010-04-29T20:56:00.068-05:00

The first 30 flower peppermint paddy favors were fun to make. The 90 others that followed made me so very glad that I had friends helping me. The fellowship made the time and task enjoyable. I never could have done it without them.

We had several ladies taking some pictures of all our lovely decorated tables, I am trying to track down some pictures. We had about 110 guests attend our Supper Flower event on Wednesday evening April 28th with a demonstration by Karen Kreiser, owner of Wildwood Nursery.

The wonderful compliments we have received have us all energized and excited. We have already started making plans for a fall event. If you have a suggestion for a fall type favor - I'd love to see an example. Just post a link in the comments.

Dusty Durango Upsy Daisies

2010-04-26T22:28:00.048-05:00

I hope you are sitting down. Here's another quick & easy card. What a shocker - huh? It uses the same layout as my Yellow Fifth Avenue card. To change it up a bit, I added a scalloped edge to the top layer, used a glue dot to attach a bit of ribbon and stamped the saying on layered punches. I gave the workshop guests a choice of sentiments to use: Happy Birthday, Wonderful Mother, Thinking of you. Don't I just pamper them rotten?

Even though I don't have a picture, some guests stamped the inside corner of the card with daisies and the corner of their card.

Yellow Fifth Avenue Floral

2010-04-23T19:03:00.113-05:00

Quick and easy cards have always been a challenge for me. This is card that was made at my Friends & Neighbors Make & Take workshop, and my sister-in-laws workshop. Members also made this card at the Special Touch meeting, and A Place to Belong. It's really made the rounds hasn't it? And with that I say farewell to my (retiring) Summer Sun paper; it is now all gone.

This card is a case of Cindy Baughman's card on Stampin' Connection. Sorry if the link doesn't work for you, it's only for demonstrators. Join my team and you too can have access to Stampin' Connection's showcase of over 65,000+ examples. Stampin' Up! has a couple great specials for new demonstrators, check out my website. My recruit password is BerryPineStampers.

CASEd=Copy And Share Everything. I almost copied everything, only changing three things. The Cindy's background layer was two toned, half white and half yellow. I only did yellow. I also had alternate sayings for my stampers, some made it into a Mother's day card, others used birthday greetings and wedding phrases. Many of my stampers added color to the flower centers for lovely extra added touch.

Fifth Avenue Floral stamp set was 20% off during the month of April.

Easter basket

2010-03-29T17:32:00.002-05:00

I had an idea for an Easter favor and just had to take a break and try it out before I forgot. It's a little basket made with the Perfect Setting die. For the bottom, I simply put in a cupcake paper liner. Easy Peasy!

Big Shot:

Perfect Setting, Texture plates, Little Leaves sizzlit,

Tip: save the little eyelet cutouts for the center of the flowers,

Colors:

Lovely Lilac, Old Olvie, Cameo Coral, Summer Sun

Bunny:

Whisper White, Chocolat Chip ink, Creamy Carmel marker

All that's left is to go buy some goodies to fill it up with.

What do you think?

Easter Cards

2010-03-24T22:53:00.101-05:00

I taught another class on Tues. afternoon (March 23rd) at "A Place to Belong". They were soooooo excited about their creations. They asked the coordinators if I could come back again so they could make Mother's Day and Father's Day cards. I'm booked for May 4th and I am planning to have alternate verses incase Mother's and Father cards are unneeded. You all know that I'm "easy challenged". Therefore if you see some easy guy cards, I NEED to see them.

A Place to Belong is a social setting for people go to that are having mental difficulties. When demos coined the saying that Stamping is rubber therapy, I don't think this is what they had in mind, but it's right on the mark! Seeing their faces as they look with pride at their cards is priceless. The coordinator said they really look forward to me coming and it's all they talk about for days afterwards. Even though these classes result in no sales, the feeling that I've really made a difference in someone's day is so amazing and fulfilling. And that's therapy for me!

Bunny card details:
7 minutes, 35 seconds is all it took me to make my display card!!! Yeah!! I'm pretty proud of myself about that! When you say chocolate bunnies and baby chicks, it reminds everyone of Easter!

Supplies:
Crushed curry; paper & ink, Chocolate Chip ink, Gold brad, blender pen. The inside is stamped with God's Blessings in chocolate chip ink: Sharing with you the miracle of new hope and new life through the glorious gift of Christ the Lord. They also stamped the little chick and broken egg shell next to the verse. Obviously the yellow envelope is not SU, it's from my before SU stash because I only had enough white ones to give them 1 each.

Stamping Tips:

--- Stamp the bunny in the corner on the whisper white layer before doing the embossing. --- Stamp the inside verse before assembling the card & if you muck it up refold the card so it becomes your front. You can cover up the mucking with your embossed whisper white bunny layer.

Supplies:

Pretty in Pink paper, retired stamp set: 1998 Easter Blessings, retired Raspberry Tart DSP 3"x4", Mellon Mambo ink, the little flower is from Eastern Blooms, Crystal clear brad. The inside is stamped with God's Blessings in mellon mambo: Blessings brighten when we count them! THANK YOU for blessing my life in such a wonderful way! White SU envelope. One of the things I so appreciate about doing these classes with "A Place to Belong" is they have provided me with an opportunity and have encouraged me to use retired products.

To make the flowers: I had them put the punched pieces in the palm of their hand and then rub the petals with the bone folder to add curves. One of the members was worried about the wrinkles in the paper, and I said it made them look like the veins in real flowers. The edges of the flowers are sponged and then attached with dimensionals. My original sample didn't have sponging on the edge of the card, but a couple ladies asked if they could sponge the edges like last time. Then others asked what that meant, so I used my card to show them how it would look. Before long everyone had sponging all over - on every edge you can think of, even the envelopes and the flaps.

I'm showing two different variations of the same card because one lady had trouble stamping on the inside of the card and smudged the verse. Tip: Stamp your inside verse before embossing the front of the card. This horizontal version of the card has the DSP in the middle to cover up the previously stamped and smudged image. I did this card to show them that there's no mistakes, just revisions in the layout. I think I may even like this one better. If I would have put the saying in the opposite corner it would have looked great vertically also.

Another tip: Never leave home without extra supplies for a couple additional cards.

Inspiration for my cards came from Lisa Reber and Debbie Currier cards on Stampin' Connection. It's an awesome website only for Stamping Up! demonstrators. I'd love to help you sign up to be a demonstrator so you can access to all the wonderful ideas, examples, and discussions.

Storage idea for alphabet letters

2010-03-19T20:32:00.104-05:00

Here's something I shared at a SU meeting earlier this week. The "disposable" society we live in will tell you this idea isn't practical because you could almost cut a whole pack of paper for what it costs to buy this little container. I have no excuse for my defense. By the time you pop out all the letters and sort them into their spaces, I'm not sure it even saves time.

BUT I don't have to be logical! I am Woman!

No more explanation should be necessary! ; )

It bothered me to toss all those extra letters. On more than one occasion I've dug through my recycle pile looking for just a couple letters muttering: Why did I throw away all those extra letters? Here's my solution.

Do you recognize what container this is?

It's a 4 times daily pill dispenser. I punched circles out sticker paper to cover the Morning, Noon, Evening, and Bedtime words and then glued the letter on top. Pretty creative huh? There's days I just amaze myself (snicker, snicker).

This works great. The letters don't slide under or over the dividers like in other containers I tried. The bottom for each space is rounded so the letters don't get stuck in corners and are easy to pull out. Each letter has it's own cover and I don't have to worry about my kitten making a big mess when she tries to help me. . . Oh one more thing even though it's plastic it makes me feel like I'm being "green" because it's a reduce, reuse, recycle thing - and saving trees.

Speaking of saving - once you sort out all the letters, you still have a lot of paper with letters left. The negative images still need to be rescued. An example of what I mean is the "r" found on my son's birthday card.

How cool is that?

What can I say? I just have to spice things up sometimes.

What's happened to my brain? Card challenge SCCSC7

2010-03-15T11:07:00.004-05:00

My daughter asked me to bring my Big Shot and scalloped square when I was going to visit her. She wanted to make one of those famous Big Shot rag bags. In the meantime during packing, I forgot to grab my sister's birthday card. So once I got to my daughter's house I found myself in need of making the card and was challenged to use only the supplies my daughter had on hand plus my Big Shot with only the scallop square die.

Thankfully Diane Noble had emailed the Stampin' Connection's card sketch challenge SCCSC7 to our SU Diva group (Thanks Diane, it makes it so much easier to find). With the sketch to help with the layout inspiration, my next challenge was to decide on colors. Boy I never realized how much I used my color wheel to help me decide which colors to use together.

Here's my masterpiece! (big grin)
I just love how the new scalloped punch fits inside the Big Shot's scalloped square die.

So what do you think of my limited resources card? Okay it's not so limited, but without my craft room at my fingertips it sure felt that way ; )

Here's a couple pictures of my daughter and her helper cutting out her butterfly purse:

Notice the butterflies!

I had taken some pictures of the other pieces, but they were blurry. Hopefully over Easter we can get it sewn together for her and I can post the finished purse then.

In the Dog House

2010-03-08T12:54:00.051-06:00

Got-ta love Sale-a-bration FREE stamps!

I'm behind on making special cards. My up-upline was pretty ill and I wanted something special to send her. I was waiting for my "Wellness Wishes" set to come and had planned to use the "Praying for you during your illness" stamp from that set. But this 3-D card is what I ended up with, hope she liked it. Better late than never, right?

Doesn't the SAB paper make for an adorable back drop?

I left the one side of the top un-sticky-taped so I could send it in the mail. I cut off the front flap and folded it in half, then attached it to the back flap. That way it could be assembled like a box without needing to be taped on the bottom. Here's what it looks like going into the envelope. A perfect fit with some room to spare.

This time I actually made two so I could have one for my own display, but her sister ended up having a terrible week and needed to have a tooth pulled because of an infection. I decided she needed a pick me up card, so here it goes off to the mailbox. It's a good thing I never sticky taped mine together.

Howled R U?

2010-02-27T00:04:00.034-06:00

Sorry, I just couldn't resist the title.

Close your eyes and say it out loud - you'll get it!

Man am I clever or what? (giggle)

Sometimes I even surprise myself with how creative I am.

The stamp set "Nature Silhouettes" was calling me to use it for my son's birthday card. The name of their software company name Howling Moon was my inspiration.

It was difficult to get a good picture that showed the Shimmer frost paint sponged on the moon. This card is impressive in real life. Click on the picture to see a larger image. If you look at your screen sideways, it picks up the shimmer - that's so cool that it can do that!

They've recently released another application program called "Upshot" for macs. Earlier this year they were at a game developers software meeting and found out that a significant number of programmers were using his chipmunk physics program which he released as shareware while he was still in high school. They are currently working on additional upgrades for his chipmunk physics program.

I'm so proud of him, and that he had the courage to go after his dream. Thank you for letting me "howl" a little about his accomplishments.

Happy Birthday Scott!

Now I need SU to make a chipmunk stamp.

CATALOG CARRY OVERS

2010-02-18T00:59:00.002-06:00

116806 Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint $5.95

116854 Frost White Shimmer Paint $5.95

116807 Platinum Shimmer Paint $5.95

116829 Décor Elements Blocks $9.95

116824 Stampin' Up! Textured Impressions Folder Petals-A-Plenty $7.95

116821 Stampin' Up! Holiday Windows Magnetic Movers & Shapers $29.95

116819 Stampin' Up! Table Setting Bigz XL die $42.95

116820 Stampin' Up! Embosslits Merry die $11.95

116823 Stampin' Up! Sizzlits Merry Details die $5.50

116822 Stampin' Up! O Christmas Tree Pop-Up Bigz XL die $42.95

118140 Stampin' Up! Tree Decorations Sizzlits die $5.50

118108 My Digital Studio $79.95

116519 Charming stamp set $19.95

Special handicap class Valentine cards

2010-02-11T11:41:00.048-06:00

I received a panicked phone call asking if I could help out the Community Education handicap class. They wanted me to prepare 2 different cards for 16 adults for that evening's at 5 pm class.

Here's the two cards I designed for them:

I used retired DSP for these projects. There was a lot of pre-work involved in their projects. The cards were embossed and pre-punched. I also had the hearts already stamped, pre-punched, and stuck on glue dots so all they had to do was peal and stick. They also stamped matching envelopes. For the brocade blue card they stamped matching envelopes with the SAB polka dot hearts. I ended up giving my sample envelope to one of the students. (I'm always running out of the white envelopes.)

It was wonderful seeing them so proud of their projects. When they finished the cards, they sat and asked what card they could make next. Sadly, 2 cards were all I was asked to prepare for them.

Valentine projects, SCCSC3=Easel card

2010-02-09T22:37:00.165-06:00

I thought I was off to a good start when the stampers arrived, however I soon found myself laying things down and then not being able to find them. I couldn't believe it when I mislaid the cut card stock for their easel card; I had to re-cut ALL the pieces while the club members worked on their first two projects.

Then when it finally was time to make that card I also mislaid my mat packs . One minute I was taking my mat packs out of my drawer and the next I found myself at the table holding only the piecing tools. Thankfully we quickly found the mis-laid packs and everyone had a good chuckle. It was just one of those days where a good long scream could have helped. 'Know what I mean?

This little gem was a case of ______'s card. I found the directions on her blog, and thought I saved her address. See it really was a day of losing things. I loved the idea of using the slit punch to hold the card closed.

If this is yours or you know who's card it is,
please let me know so they can get credit for it.

I try to remember to ask my hostesses to pick one of my sample cards that they want to make for their project. It makes planning so much easier when I know what they want to learn. Here's a peak at my "Berry Pine Stamping" display wall.

The hostess picked the black & red card from a SAB swap made by Mary Hophner. Her simple design lends to the card's elegance and the classic colors of black & white with red accents really pop and catch your eye. It's versatile enough that it can be used as a Valentine's Day card or a wedding card depending on the sentiment you stamp inside. Great design Mary, thanks for letting me post your card.

Now for THAT easel card that gave me so much trouble.
For the front / stand up part of the card, I used Stampin' Connections card sketch challenge tagged as SCCSC3. It was created by Diane Nobel who is part of the Design team for Stampin' Connection AND is one of my sister demonstrators from Patsy Waggoner's downline team.

Everyone really enjoy making this card. It was putzy, but that's my speciality even when I try to be simple. Several of the club members talked about bringing it to work the following day to show it off to their office mates. I sometimes think there's an unspoken contest happening between them.

Here's close up so you can see the details a little better:

My wish for you is your heart is filled with love this Valentine's.
Thanks for stopping by.

Have a great day.

Valentine Cards for "A Place to Belong"

2010-02-02T09:47:00.002-06:00

I spent a delightful afternoon at "A Place to Belong" helping 10 women created these 2 valentine cards with matching envelopes. I think it is safe to say the highlight of the class was when they each took a turn at the Big Shot embossing their card fronts. It is now on their wish list for their organization to purchase once grant monies can be found.

The first card was designed by Mary Hophner, I received the card as a SAB swap. The second card used retired Raspberry Tart paper.

They were so excited about their projects that by the time I had left, they had convinced their coordinators to schedule another class to do Easter cards.

What a gorgeous morning!

2010-01-15T10:45:00.002-06:00

I've just got to share a couple pictures of my back yard this morning.

You can click on the pictures to see a close up of the incredible frost.

Milk carton bird houses

2010-01-11T04:09:00.014-06:00

I belong to a small group that's part of our Women's Ministries at my church. Our group is currently planning a spring supper event the end of April. When discussing what to make for favors I told the others about the cute little birds on birdhouses made with the milk carton die that so many people are posting. Here's the sample I made. It was suppose to be a robin, but turned out looking more like a wren.

12 DAYS OF HOLIDAY SALESDecember 11-22, 2009

2009-12-11T14:47:00.028-06:00

Details: For 12 days only, our 12 Days of Holiday Sales is a great way
for you to get discounts on select Big Shot dies and materials.

Things to Remember:

Orders may be placed as customer, workshop, or online orders.
The sale begins Friday, December 11, 2009, 12:01 AM (MT), and ends
Tuesday, December 22, 2009, 11:50 PM (MT).

Items must be ordered by December 15, 2009, in order to arrive in
time for Christmas.

Discounts range between 15-25 percent.

All items on sale will be posted on the first day of the promotion and
can be purchased for all 12 days.

There are no quantity limits.

There are no qualifiers to receive the discount.

For online orders, discounts will be reflected in the "regular price"; "
catalog price" will show the non-discounted price.

Order deadlines:

Phone: Tuesday, December 22 , 2009; 6:50 PM (MT)
OEX and Online: Tuesday, December 22, 2009; 11:50 PM (MT)

Some of the items introduced in this sale are new colors of Décor
Elements vinyl sheets. There are 18 new colors to choose from,
and they make great projects when you use them with Big Shot dies.
Consider pairing the Clear Décor Elements vinyl sheets with the Tulipe
Bigz die to create an etched-like design on a vase. Or use the
Decorative Accent Bigz dies with the Old Olive Décor Element vinyl
sheets to enhance a frame. The combination of Big Shot dies and
Décor Elements vinyl sheets is sure to take your creativity to a
new level!

Click here to see the list of all the items on sale.

Thanksgiving favors

2009-11-27T01:16:00.013-06:00

Yes indeed, I love those little Bigz #2 boxes that everyone is using to make totes.

I made 9 Blessing Mix totes. And yes I did make them a little more time consuming when I decided to add a watercolored pumpkin and gourd.

None the less, I love the way they turned out.

Here's a candle I stamped.

Sale percentages totaling 30, 40, 50 and more. Just check out my Stampin' Up! on-line store.

2009-11-26T20:41:00.010-06:00

DEFINITELY DECORATIVE

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

ONLINE EXTRAVAGANZA November 23-30, 2009

2009-11-23T16:35:00.038-06:00

This week is a difficult time to hold workshops because it's very busy for most people. Therefore Stampin' Up! is making it easy for you to get some great deals by offering an online sale available to you 24/7 until November 30th, 2009. So while your pie is baking take a quick peak and relax while you place your order online. But remember this sale is only until Monday November 30, 2009. Check out the other online sales also.

To order online click here, thanks for shopping with me.

Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving and safe travels for you and your loved ones.

Michelle Dawn

ONLINE EXTRAVAGANZA

Dates: November 23-30, 2009
Details: The Online Extravaganza sale is for one week only, you can get amazing discounts--up to 50 percent off--on over 40 products and product bundles! See below for complete offering.
Things to Remember:

Orders may be placed as customer, demonstrator, workshop, or online orders.
The sale begins Monday, November 23, 2009, 12:01 AM (MT), and ends Monday November 30, 2009, 11:50 PM (MT).
Discounts range between 30 percent and 50 percent.
For online orders, discounts will be shown in the shopping bag at checkout.
The Distribution Center will be closed on Thursday, November 26, and Friday, November 27, 2009, for the US Thanksgiving holiday. No orders will ship on those days.
Order deadlines:

Online: Monday, November 30, 2009; 11:50 PM (MT)

Product Offering:

Item	Description	Regular Price	Discounted Price
120280	Framed with Love Bundle Framed with Love stamp set Full Heart punch	$43.90	$21.95
120281	Thank You Kindly Bundle Thank You Kindly stamp set Scallop Edge punch	$29.90	$14.95
120976	Thank You Kindly Bundle (French) Tous mes remerciements stamp set Scallop Edge punch	$29.90	$14.95
120282	Animal Crackers Bundle Animal Crackers stamp set Star Designer brads	$25.90	$12.95
120283	Corduroy Button Bundle Kraft Corduroy buttons Pumpkin Pie Corduroy buttons Summer Sun Corduroy buttons Basic Gray Corduroy buttons Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$49.75	$24.88
120284	Game Night Bundle Card Games stamp set Game Night stamp set	$40.90	$20.45
120285	Four Square Bundle Four Square stamp set Scallop Square punch	$30.90	$15.45
120286	Heart to Heart Bundle Love You Much stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$49.85	$24.93
120310	Heart to Heart Bundle (Spanish) Te Quiero Mucho stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$49.85	$24.93
120311	Heart to Heart Bundle (French) J't'aime beaucoup stamp set Heart to Heart punch Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$49.85	$24.93
120287	Chipboard Letter Bundle On Board Timeless Type On Board Loads of Letters	$25.90	$12.95
120288	Double-Stitched Ribbon Bundle Bashful Blue 1" double-stitched grosgrain ribbon Rose Red 1" double-stitched grosgrain ribbon	$17.90	$10.74
120289	Ultimate Stampers' Starter Bundle* Best Wishes & More stamp set Eight Great Greetings stamp set On a Pedestal stamp set Earth Elements Stampin' Spots Earth Elements assorted card stock (8-1/2" x 11") Whisper White card stock (8-1/2" x 11") Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Flower Designer brads	$127.70	$76.62
120290	Build-A-Brad Bundle Calendar Alphabet stamp set Pewter Build-A-Brad Antique Brass Build-A-Brad	$40.85	$24.51
120291	Enjoy Every Moment Bundle Enjoy Every Moment stamp set Circle Designer brads Flower Designer brads	$43.85	$26.31
120312	Enjoy Every Moment Bundle (French) Profiter de chaque instant stamp set Circle Designer brads Flower Designer brads	$43.85	$26.31
120292	Cheep Talk Bundle Cheep Talk stamp set Note cards Pumpkin Pie Corduroy buttons	$42.85	$25.71
120293	Sock Monkey Bundle Sock Monkey stamp set Sock Monkey Accessories stamp set Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$58.85	$35.31
120313	Sock Monkey Bundle (French) Sing-chaussette stamp set Sock Monkey Accessories stamp set Chocolate Chip Corduroy buttons	$58.85	$35.31
120294	Alphabet Bundle Jayne's Type Alphabet stamp set Lovely Letters stamp set	$87.90	$52.74
120295	Simply Said Bundle Simply Said stamp set Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Full Heart punch	$52.85	$31.71
120314	Simply Said Bundle (French) Amitié stamp set Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Full Heart punch	$52.85	$31.71
120296	On Board Bundle On Board So Tweet On Board Batch of Blooms On Board Essentials	$42.85	$25.71
120927	Christmas Décor Bundle #1 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Kraft, Real Red) Small Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Small Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120298	Christmas Décor Bundle #2 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Chocolate, Real Red) Small Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Small Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120299	Christmas Décor Bundle #3 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Old Olive, Real Red) Small Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Small Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120300	For All You Do Bundle For All You Do stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$36.90	$25.83
120315	For All You Do Bundle (French) Merci pour tout stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$36.90	$25.83
120316	For All You Do Bundle (Spanish) Por todo lo que haces stamp set 5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$36.90	$25.83
120301	Striped Ribbon Bundle Bashful Blue 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Pumpkin Pie 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Old Olive 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Pretty in Pink 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon So Saffron 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon Real Red 1/2" striped grosgrain ribbon	$47.73	$33.41
120302	Bling Bundle Sticky Pages Sticky Cuts Sweet Fine Supernova Stampin' Glitter Fine Galaxy Stampin' Glitter	$43.80	$30.66
120303	Fresh-Cut Bundle Fresh Cuts stamp set Fresh-Cut Notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$37.85	$26.50
120317	Fresh-Cut Bundle (French) Fraicheur exuise stamp set Fresh-Cut Notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$37.85	$26.50
120304	Pendant Note Bundle Pendant Park stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$39.85	$27.90
120318	Pendant Note Bundle (French) Adorable parc stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$39.85	$27.90
120319	Pendant Note Bundle (Spanish) Un dia en el parque stamp set Pendant notes 5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$39.85	$27.90
120305	Sporting Bundle #1 Large Night of Navy Sporting Décor Elements Night of Navy Just Sports Décor Elements	$67.90	$47.54
120306	Sporting Bundle #2 Large Chocolate Sporting Décor Elements Chocolate Just Sports Décor Elements	$67.90	$47.54
120307	Sporting Bundle #3 Large Black Sporting Décor Elements Black Just Sports Décor Elements	$67.90	$47.54
114864	Ginormous Flowers I Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
114863	Ginormous Flowers II Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
112534	5/16" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$7.95	$5.57
112533	5/8" Neutrals Jumbo brads	$6.95	$4.87
112081	Scallop Square punch	$15.95	$11.17
113693	Full Heart punch	$15.95	$11.17
113694	Heart to Heart punch	$15.95	$11.17
112091	Scallop Edge punch	$15.95	$11.17
112571	Circle Designer brads	$5.95	$4.17
112579	Flower Designer brads	$5.95	$4.17
112572	Star Designer brads	$5.95	$4.17
114785	Small Wonderful Flowers Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
114786	Medium Wonderful Flowers Décor Elements	$69.95	$48.97
114791	Small Wonderful Leaves Décor Elements	$39.95	$27.97
114792	Medium Wonderful Leaves Décor Elements	$64.95	$45.47

*This bundle is only available while supplies last.

A shimmery case

2009-11-18T00:42:00.003-06:00

For those that are wondering about the chocolate Crunch bar, it's no longer unharmed. When I was putting cards together on my display board for a workshop, I wanted to display the wrapper, so I just had to eat it. You agree, it would have been too thick to hang, right?

I was inspired by Ellen Kemper's tote to make this hostess gift.

Here's one of the projects the guests made using rub-ons, the elastic cording, and the new SU ornament punch that's available in the Holiday mini catalog:

The hostess wanted her guests to make an ornament for hanging on a tree, so this is what we came up with:

We talked about many simple hand-made gifts and the different options that Stampin' Up! can help you with for the Holidays. For a fast gift and easy gift, I demonstrated how to stamp on candle.

I did stamp shimmer snowflakes in Dashers horns, but once the image was melted into the candle it was extremely difficult to see the shimmer. I would suggest using two-way glue and dazzling diamonds for a more dramatic effect.

Leave a comment if you'd like me to email

specifics for any of these projects.

Thanks for stopping by!

Michelle Dawn

Dasher Crunch card - Stepping it up

2009-11-09T23:09:00.045-06:00

Remember my Dasher card that was inspired by the Crunch candy bar - well I decided to step it up a couple notches. First I rotated the Baroque Motifs stamp and added Merry Christmas. To mimic the edge of the candy bar, the one end was crimped and punched with the scallop edge punch. The snowflake was stamped before I punched it out. Red fire brads were added to the snowflake and as a collar for Dasher. A real red mat was added as well as embossing the real red stamped images. The final touch was stamping shimmer snowflakes on the brilliant blue background, and whisper white mat.

First my assistant has to check out my work.

Yep, the chocolate is still unharmed and in one piece.

She is still guarding the chocolate,

but I can at least take the picture now.

I'm lovin' the new shimmer inks!

It's like magic, now you see nothing and now you do, depending on the angle of the light.

I don't know if you can see it, but I also stamped some shimmer snowflakes in Dasher antlers. Isn't that cool how it disappears!

Candy inspired card

2009-11-02T00:21:00.099-06:00

I've recently joined a group called Stampin' Up Late Night Stampers. And for those that know me - it's the truth, there really is such a group - how totally perfect for me. Click on the name!

After my trouble the previous week I told myself I wasn't going to be doing the last minute dash to my computer and try to upload a card, and yet that's exactly what I did. Squeaking by with only minutes to go, I got it uploaded to the right file this time. Ta Da!

Last week they had a challenge to create a card using colors from your favorite candy. Unfortunately I ended up being sick during week and blurfing (my word for blog surfing) was the extent of my activity. I loved seeing all the great candy inspired cards. I dreamt of carmel (yum it totally destroys my will power 'til it's gone) and yet strangely this is what I ended up with.

Stamp set: Dasher, Merry

Inks: Real Red, Whisper White

Paper: Brillant Blue, Real Red, Whisper White

Accessories: White embossing powder, Snowflake punch

If you're wondering why it's not carmel, here's what happened:

When I stopped after church to pick up potatoes and carrots to add to our pot roast supper that I was making for friends, this candy wrapper yelled "Pick Me, Pick Me! I'm a Dasher card". So I tossed it in the cart along with a 100 Grand bar.

After spending a wonderful afternoon of playing dominos, eating, and talking, our friends left for home. I made some return phone calls and then while cleaning up the kitchen, I found the candy bars. The Crunch bar said "Hurry, Hurry! It's 10:30! You have 90 minutes to copy me and turn me into a card" (I agree it's strange to have candy talking to me and I only had 1/2 a glass of wine at supper, that's the truth. Maybe it was the eggnog). However when I looked at the 100 Grand candy bar, the only inspiration that happened was the feeling of still being sooooo very stuffed after supper and having it topped off with cranberry cake and butter cream sauce and just like that there was a snarf sound it was gone. Oops! That wasn't the inspiration I was looking for - he-he. Please note in the picture: the chocolate is still in it's Crunch wrapper!

I almost gave up when I checked Mary Jo Price-Williams email and I read "12am EST". Since I live in Minnesota, that meant I only had 20 minutes. Eek!

This would easily a 10 minute card if you don't count:

--- grabbing the wrong embossing powder and needing to re-stamp the Baroque Motif swirl

--- having my cat decide she needed me to play with her and climbing all over my lap, shoulders, etc

--- then she attacked my scrap of paper that I punched the snowflake out of - spooking herself causing my papers and other things fly all directions as she jumped in the air and tried to run and jump off my desk.

--- All the while time was tic-tic-tic rapidly disappearing.

All in all, I'm happy with the card. I struggled for about 30 seconds whether to punch a heart like what was on the candy wrapper or a snowflake. I wish I had taken a picture of the clock or a timer because anyone who knows me is never going to believe that I made a card in less than 10 minutes, much less that I also took a picture and got it uploaded too.

Michelle Dawn

All Saints Day

2009-11-01T15:48:00.046-06:00

One of my volunteer jobs is to decorate our church for the various special services and seasons. I replaced the mums in the entry with bumpy/warty pumpkins and decorated the sancturary with white candles and bows. Today we remembered the 20 saints, that passed away this last year, by reading their names and lighting a candle in their memory during the tolling of the bell. The larger candle in the back represented our family and friends that had passed away previously.

When I was loading all my decorations into the van, I remembered that I had meant to take a picture (from a distance) showing what the table looked like up in the front of the church. Also of all the white bows, awesome banners, and all the other candles on the pillars and in the windows. It looked like the church was ready for a wedding, which was fitting since that's what the readings of text was about.

Between our Sunday worship services there is an adult discussion class. Today it was about the origins and traditions of Halloween. It was so interesting.

It helped me decide that next year I'm going to use the following poem to top my Trick-or-Treater's cello bags and of course it will have a pumpkin and smile also stamped over it just like this year's (see pic in previous post):

a Christian

is like being a pumpkin.

God picks you from the patch,

brings you in, and washes all the

dirt off of you. Then He cuts off the

top and scoops out all the yucky stuff.

He removes the seeds of doubt, hate,

and greed. Then He carves you a new

smiling face and puts His light inside

of you to shine for all the world to

see. From one pumpkin to

another…Shine on!

Isn't that a cool poem?

It reminds me of Matt. 5:16 which says: Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.

My pumpkin got so scared, he took a little poop!

2009-10-31T23:21:00.006-05:00

Oh the candy choices we had to make! What to give (and what to stash for later). My first plan was to just put 4 peanut butter kisses in each cello bag, because I thought it would look cute, balanced, whatever; but in the end I put in other candy also. Very few carmels made it into the cello bags ... yummmm. So much for having a stash.

Stamp set: Autumn Harvest

Inks: Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie

Paper: Whisper White

Accessories: small cello bags, candy

The poem reads as follows:

I started to carve a pumpkin

with my carving knife and scoop

But the pumpkin got so scared

He took a little poop!

It looked so cute and funny

Just like a candy treat

So I'm sharing it with you now

Because you are so sweet!

My thoughts about what to do differently next year:
** Sadly it occured to me too late that there's a lot of people that have peanut allergies, so resolution number one is to have no peanut stuff next year.

** Next on my list is to plan Trick or Treat coupon to hand out to the moms (or whichever adult is with them) and have a date set and printed on each coupon, or a list of my upcoming classes.

Winter Post MDS certification card

2009-10-30T23:29:00.028-05:00

I learned a lot making the card for my son. So here's the card I created for My Digital Studio certification.

Stamp set: Winter Post

Inks: Very Vanilla, Brocade Blue, Chocolate Chip

Paper: Very Vanilla, Brocade Blue, Soft Suede

Accessories: My Digital Studio

Techniques: Layering, masking

MDS card for iTouch/iPhone programmer son

2009-10-27T22:13:00.018-05:00

This card is inspired by their business name Howling Moon Software. Since I am intrigued with other demos punch art; I thought this was a perfect time to use MDS to do some punch art. First I did a google search on images of howling wolves to use as a model.

WOW it was harder than I thought it would be using the shadows and layering. No matter what I tried - the wolf on the front reminded me of the singing mouse or reindeer head (that other demos have done) on a frogs body. So I used a different image and "punched" another wolf on the inside of the card.

We're so proud of our son. Their first program was an iTunes "Staff favorite" and now his second program has made the What's Hot list. To find their game, Twilight Golf in iTunes you need to go to the Apps store, then games. They have a free trial version of this game.

I'd love to hear what you think of my first MDS card.

A little Treat

2009-10-26T00:13:00.001-05:00

I love the colors of fall, well most falls anyway. I just had to share a pic of the little treat I made for my hostess and decided to include it with the orders that I am going to be delivering from my last workshop.

Stamp set: Lovely as a Tree

Inks: Old Olive, Really Rust, Ruby Red

Paper: Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, More Mustard

Accessories: Aqua Painter, Stylus, Hemp Twine, Sizzix Leaves#2

On a piece of 6"x 6" pumpkin pie, I stamped leaves in Old Olive and then water colored them. The leaves and letters were die cut out of More Mustard. I used a stylus to emboss the veins in the sizzix leaves, crumpled them and then used a sponge dauber colored them and the letters. And yes that is chocolate you see sticking out of the end; I thought you'd like to see what was inside.

I'm not sure where the last month has slipped away to. Is everyone ready for the Tricker Treaters that will soon be knocking at your door?

Fall decorating at church

2009-10-16T21:55:00.050-05:00

First I need to thank Wendy A. for all the preliminary work she did for me. I would have been at church a lot longer if I would have had to do all the arranging by myself. She has a wonderful sense of design and layout. I'm hoping she'll help me put up the Thanksgiving eve decorations.

Yes you could say I was being a little OCD again. I took pictures of how she had everything arranged because I wanted to be able to put things back as close as to what she had already done. It sure saved me a lot of time and was so handy to place the gourds along the edge of the planter and then put them back in place. Thanks again Wendy!

So this is how it looked after I had added more mulch to the planter to raise everything up. All I really did was to add a large pumpkin and the mums for the upcoming wedding.

The first pumpkin was too small, so I was off to find another taller one for the middle. In the meantime, while I was on the pumpkin hunt I came across some gorgeous croton plants and just had to get them also. I put one on each side of the front doors along with my first pumpkin. Here's another view:

Since they were having live string music in the Narthex, I put together this centerpiece on the table that was going to be behind the musicians.

I really enjoy decorating, especially in the fall. If you're in the Fergus Falls, Minnesota area, stop by and visit First Lutheran Church. We're west across from the Court House.

6" x 6"Mini flip album

2009-09-20T14:24:00.006-05:00

I love using My Digital Studio program from Stampin' Up! I used it to design the pages for a class that I am teaching next month. No wasted paper!

Here are the pages of the 6" x 6" mini flip album that I am offering through Community Education classes. It is made in the Fergus Fall school colors.

Front cover, page 1

It is optional to place a name vertically on the left.

Pages 2 & 3. The band on page 3 is only attached on the sides making

it possible to slide a picture or documentation behind the band.

Pages 4 & 5

To reveal pages 6 & 7, flip page 5 up.

To reveal the final pages 8 & 9, flip page 7 like you are turning a page.

Community Education Classes

2009-09-05T14:16:00.069-05:00

This fall I will be offering a series of monthly card classes through Community Education office.

Each month you will be able to stamp 5 cards which will include each of the following themes: gal, guy, sympathy, seasonal, and just for fun.

I have also scheduled several project classes. Build-A-Bear magnetic paper doll with case and 6 outfits; stamp and decorate a picture frame; create a 6"x 6" mini flip album.

The above display shows examples of the various outfit choices available to make for the Build-A-Bear paper magnet; and the picture frame. I will also be offering a 6" x 6" mini flip album in October. A sample of the album will be posted later.

Dates and times for the classes are posted

on my Stampin' Up! website calendar.

More about the Stampin' Up! convention OMG our turtle is popping up all over!

2009-08-30T00:57:00.008-05:00

I am so excited and have so many ideas after going to the Stampin' Up! convention. My head is spinning more than normal. I took over 900+ pictures. Here is just part of the displays that were set up for us to view, plus the back sides of the panels. There were 3 more areas of this size that were just cards:

The energy level being among 3000+ other people that love to stamp is just indescribable. I felt like a teenager at a rock concert.

On check-in day, once we "found" our way to the Salt Palace Convention Center (lost? I didn't say lost! Some of us were just a little confused as to which way was North.), we registered and received our "convention bag". It contained: an information booklet with lunch vouchers, a Stampin' Up! pen, a pin with Stampin' Up!s new tag line "Inspire, Create, Share", and 4 stamp sets.

Once I got myself organized, I began swapping my cards. Many of the cards that I received were very inspiring and in the upcoming months you will have the chance to recreate some of them when you enroll in my classes. I have to confess I was really excited when I was able to swap cards with Patty Bennet; but to have her post our turtle card on her blog - OMG!!! Since then I have found our little turtle card also poppin' up several other blogs: Annette Stewart, Jo-Ann Unrau, Tammy Borrello and Brenda's. That is so exciting - thank you ladies, what an honor! Please leave me a comment if she has popped-up anywhere else.

On the first day, every once and awhile I would see glimps of demonstrators carrying little bears with Stampin' Up! aprons. I so wanted one! It became my quest to find out where they got the aporn. Then came the big announcement - all of us attending convention had an opportunity to purchase one. Not only does she have the Stampin' Up! apron but she's embroidered on her paw, carries her only pawsitively adorable stamp (sorry, I couldn't resist) and to complete her look she sports an in-color ribbon of Bermuda Bay. Isn't she adorable!

Her little stamp says: Life without stamps... Unbearable!

Now it's time for a little promotional teasing, after all they did it to me, now it's my turn to do it to you:

So that bear was the first hook that caught me - where was my tiny will power when I needed it. I wasn't going to order any of the bear items when I had seen the Holiday mini catalog, but then I saw them in person - I not only was hooked but I swallowed it hook line and sinker and that's not the end of the story. The Holiday mini catalog starts September 1st. Make sure you check out Stampin' Up!s newest promotion which is an exclusive collection in cooperation with Sizzix and Build-A-Bear-Workshop. The adorable bear stamps and dies are on pages 34-37 in the back of the mini. If you don't have a catalog, you can download one from my website. I've have been experimenting with magnets on the back of the bears and the outfits so children can play with the bears and dress them like paper dolls. Cool idea huh? I will be offering a BABW class through community education later in October. Space is limited.

I had also heard Stampin' Up! was going to offer a digital studio program, I wasn't excited; but then I as watched it being demonstrated at convention and I WAS truly impressed. Keep watch on my website - it is in the final stages of testing and is slated to be released the first part of October. For more info see page 38-39 of the Holiday mini.

One last teaser to tell you about is the Simply Adorned Charms which are simply gorgeous! You can stamp images and change them out for the seasons or whatever suits your fancy. This is something you need to see in person, the pictures in the catalog (pages 32-33) although nice just don't do the charms justice. My sister demonstrator, Ellen B, won one at convention.

ORIENTAL INSPIRED ANIVERSARY CARD

2009-08-20T22:11:00.016-05:00

Our pastor and his wife's had spent time in Japan as missionaries; so I wanted to make an an anniversary card for them with an oriental flair.

I really loved the look of the card until I stamped the inside. I didn't like seeing the words show through; so I attached a layer behind the card front.

Stampset: Hostess set-Kind & Caring Thoughts, Priceless

Ink: Real Red, Old Olive, Basic Black

Paper: Real Red, Whisper White, Basic Black

Accessories: Wide Oval Punch, Lattice Bigz die,

dimensionals, clear embossing

If you make this card, try using a piece of 12"x 5.5" card stock and tri-fold it.

August Club Cards - SIP entry

2009-08-11T21:04:00.013-05:00

Monday August 10th was another busy day of unpacking. I was wondering if I needed to have my head examined because I had scheduled a club workshop for that night.

Each time my club ladies get together I have several goals I try to incorporate into their 3 projects. These goals are: to teach a basic stamped card (see SIP explanation below), teach a technique, let them use a new or different tool, and create a 6x6 scrapbook page that could alternatively be folded and used as a 3x6 card.

Last spring my up-upline, Patsy Waggoner, had proposed a challenge to her Definitely Diva team. It was to help our new demonstrators with ideas by posting cards that could be made with only things you would get with the starter kit. This month Stampin' Up!s Cofounder and CEO, Shelli Gardner, has posted a SIP creative challenge. It is to create a project with only Stamps, Ink, and Paper. To me that meant the same thing as what Patsy had us do using no embellishments or special tools to create the card or project using only things you would get with the starter kit therefore no brads, no ribbon, no punches, and no Big Shot die cuts. It calls for us demonstrators to get back to the basics and show cards and projects that beginner stampers can say "I could do that!" But at the same time show more experienced stampers how they can easily step up their creations. So with all that being said, here's my card, I believe it meets the criteria for the soshelli creative challenge perfectly:

Stampset: Eastern Blooms, Sincere Salutations

Ink: Cameo Coral, Chocolate Chip

Paper: Whisper White, Cameo Coral, Chocolate Chip

I love the simple elegance of this card. During the club's make & take, I explained this card could be simply embellished by popping up the cut out flowers and I let them use dimensionals on their cards. (Tip for new demonstrators: as an alternative until you get dimensionals, use little pieces of the leftover rubber from when you assembled your stamps.) The other things that could step up this card would be to put dimensionals under the branch layer and put some brads in the various flowers. Also you could tie a small knot in some ribbon and use a glue dot to attach it to the branch.

-----oOo-----

The second card of the night was a case of Kris Sanders convention swap. I had planned to order the butterfly punch, but when I got home from convention and opened my shipment it was AWOL (opps I had it on a different order yet to be submitted) and the ladies had to cut out their butterflies. They had some hands on time to use Big Shot to emboss their whisper white layer and they learned how to use the Stamp-a-ma-jig.

Stampset: Flight of the Butterfly

Ink: Bermuda Bay, Basic Black

Paper: Whisper White, Bermuda Bay, Basic Black

Accessories: Stamp-a-ma-jig, Basic Black Marker,

Elegant Bouquet Embossing Folder

-----oOo-----

The last project for the evening was a 6x6 scrapbook layout. I miss the Raspberry Tart DSP that I designed my 3-D punch flower for, however I realized that Tea Party is another DSP design that coordinates with my flower. Yeah!

This was a quick project with a couple cranks on the Big Shot, some punching, folding of the flowers, sponging, and careful snailing - voila they had a 6x6 scrapbook page.

Snailing Tip: To use this layout as a scrapbook page, you need to attach the flower and sentiment to only the DSP strip. And the strip should only be attached on the outside edges so that a vertical 6x4 picture can be slide behind the DSP paper strip.

Stampset: Great Friend

Ink: Old Olive, So Saffron

Paper: Whisper White, Old Olive,

DSP Tea Party, Almost Amethyst

Punches: Curly Label, 5 Petal, Trio Flowers

Accessories: So Saffron Grosgrain Ribbon,

Sponge Daubers, Sweetest Stem Embosslit die

TURTLE CARD - Sharing projects at convention

2009-08-11T00:34:00.020-05:00

On July 28th Stampin' Up! announced: We want you to share your best work at the Marketing Resource Center at Convention 2009. We'll display samples related to the topics listed below at the event, plus there is a chance that your samples may be shown in Stampers' Showcase in the coming months!

Kid Campaign: Make workshop demonstratable projects for kids--or for the kid in you.
Holiday Extravaganza: Make holiday workshop projects.
Sizzix Big Shot Pop-Up dies: Make projects using any of our pop-up dies.
And don't forget to try out our Look Here Bigz XL die!
Sizzix Big Shot Movers & Shapers dies: Show off your skills with our Movers & Shapers dies.

However I wasn't home and didn't have access to the internet. I was busy dodging frosting and cake samples that were flying through the air (see my Sponge Bob post).

-------------------------------------------

Sunday August 2nd:

You know how much work there is to do when you get home and you've been gone for a week: unload the cooler, make out a grocery list, unpack stuff, put away stuff, wash clothes, go get groceries, so on and so on. Such was my activities when I got home on Sunday August 2 and Monday.
Monday August 3rd:
I read the above announcement. My thought was "It would be a miracle if I made a pop-up ball card to be displayed especially since I'd NEVER done one before." The day flew by, between appointments and errands I tried washing clothes, but our dryer is wired to off-peak power and it was being controlled; I couldn't dry any of already wet loads that were already washed. That evening my hubby took me out to supper for my birthday. I was sooooo excited about going to Stampin' Up!s convention, I couldn't get to sleep Monday night, partly thinking of the things I still had to do and I kept wishing I could think of a card worthy to be displayed at convention. I was all excited and my imagination was really working overtime. I think the last time I looked at the clock it was 5 am.

Tuesday August 4th:

YEAH! My dryer was working - WooWho! and I only had 2 more loads to dry and then hubby and I would have the "essentials" to make it through the week. My clothes were in piles everywhere, I was unpacking from the last week, washing, and trying to re-pack. Dan joked that I should have a "Pilot's" (pile it's) license.

However amid all the chaos, all I could do was think about the dream I had about a double pop-up card. The front had trees that wiggled and a beach with Minnesota stamped on the bottom, then the inside had a beach ball with moving water and a turtle sitting in the sand with a butterfly on it's back with the saying: "Sand, Water, & Sun, Makes our Summers Fun!"

I shared my dream card and thoughts with my sister demonstrators; I think they were ready to have me committed. Kris was staying with me Tuesday evening and we were leaving at 4 am so we could fly out of Fargo. I don't know who encouraged who, but we worked late into the night/early morning bouncing ideas off each other. We cut out the pieces and then packed them up so we could finish putting the card together in Salt Lake City.

Wednesday August 5th:

Here's the card. We simplified my vision and changed some of the details, but we're happy with the end result.

It was so fun having ladies come and take pictures of our turtle while we filed out the information to put on the back of the card.

Tip: This was our first attempt at making a pop-up ball card; we would recommend using larger rubber bands and doing a double layer of card stock for the top hexagon.

Here is our card on display at convention. YEAH!

My Convention swap card

2009-08-09T21:22:00.001-05:00

Below is the card I made to swap with other demonstrators at the Stampin' Up! convention. I wanted to include the 3-D flower from my "Mom" card that I posted earlier, however I was so excited about going to the convention and had so many ideas that I was having trouble concentrating ... in other words I was a mess!

If it wasn't for my daughter's patient listening as I babbled on and on, I never would have gotten 96 cards done. Therefore many, many thanks goes to my daughter Amber for helping me focus, simplify my card layout, and for all the hours of help in assembling the cards.

Stampset: Great Friend Paper: DSP-Razzleberry Lemonade, Whisper White, Crushed Curry, Melon Mambo, Rich Razzleberry, Green Galore Ink: Rich Razzleberry, Green Galore Accessories: Sweetest Stem Embosslit Punches: Trio-flower, 5 petal flower

I love all the texture you get by folding the 2 of the 5 petals up before attaching the flower to the stem. Here is a close up of what the first 10 cards looked like:

Now you're probably wondering why only 10 cards when I said we made 96. Sadly the length of time that it took to do the folding and gluing on 10 cards, I decided I needed modify the way the flower looked in order to speed up the assembly time. So after ripping out my compulsive heart, and taking a several deep breaths, the rest of my swaps were finished with the little flowers being layered on the left and a single bud on the right side. (I just wanted to share the different options on how you could make these delightful 3-D flowers.)

Sponge Bob Birthday

2009-08-02T22:23:00.009-05:00

I have to confess, I don't get the whole Sponge Bob thing, and I'll admit I have not watched the cartoon either. I was told little Brayden runs to the TV and dances when the music for the show comes on.

Well I guess I'm just as guilty. When I found out my cousin was going to make a Sponge Bob birthday cake for my sister's little one; I just HAD TO keep with the theme and make his first birthday card from me - yes it's shamefully true you guessed it - I made a Sponge Bob card.

Paper: Yoyo Yellow, Whisper White, Ruby Red, Cameo Coral, Basic Black, Green Galore, Brilliant Blue Ink: Basic Black Accessories: Assorted Punches, White Gel Pen

Brayden was allowed to stick his finger in the frosting to sample it.

However his little hands were quicker than his mom's and

he did a little more than just sample some frosting with his finger:

Then he shook his hands and there were samples of frosting and cake on the walls, window, table and floor, and his mommy too!

Our entertainment continued as Brayden's parents tried to clean up the mess. I don't know which is worst wiping up broken eggs or frosting.

Here's the clean "quick-draw mc-birthday boy"

after the washcloth came to the rescue.

Now isn't this commercialism at it's best?

The only thing that would have made this

party better would have been:

Carmel.

Mmm, Ooo-la-la!

Have Fun Doing What You Love

2009-07-16T22:13:00.000-05:00

From July 15–August 31, you can join the Stampin' Up! family for as little as $85 with the Mini Starter Kit. Have fun helping friends and family create exciting projects, while earning free products and even a little extra cash!

Christmas in July

2009-07-07T22:15:00.000-05:00

You're invited to my Christmas in July Open House. Come have fun learning about how to create handmade cards and projects. Plus, you'll get to make your own hand-stamped card (see below); try out the BigShot; sign-up for classes; see the new in-colors and some new stamps, learn about the Berry Pine Stampin’ Club. Club members can pick up your new FREE idea book & catalog. I'm looking forward to seeing you.

EVENT: Christmas in July open house

DATES: Wed. July 15; 5 - 7:30 pm
Thurs. July 16; 2 – 6:30 pm
PLACE: Berry Pine Stamping Pad

Fergus Falls, MN
RSVP: meshalm8itjs4u@yahoo.com

Go to my website, Stampin' Up! is having weekly specials during July.
Bring a friend that hasn't stamped with me, and you both can make a friend card.

Michelle Dawn

Stamps not in the catalog, but still available.

2009-07-01T23:07:00.000-05:00

DORMANT LISTS

The Dormant List contains stamp sets that, while they have not been retired, are not listed in the current catalog. These sets are available for purchase during the listed timeframe and may or may not be listed again in future catalogs.

Stamps

Item #	Stamp Set	Last Publication this Set Appeared in	Page #
113407	Backwoods	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	102
114492	Beautiful Baby	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	208
114486	Birthday Wish	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	208
113200	Branch Out	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	100
114496	Celebrations	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	208
113732	Central Park	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	106
113206	Classic Sketches	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	119
113226	Classy & Fabulous	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	51
113750	Easter Beauty	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	29
114024	Bella Pascua	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	29
114498	Flowers in Silhouette	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	208
113405	Font of You	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	46
113216	For the Bride	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	61
114028	Para la novia	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	61
114494	Forever	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	208
109425	Friend by Definition	2008 Fall-Winter Idea Book & Catalog	135
114488	Fun Flowers	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	208
113716	Garden Greetings	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	55
114490	Glad Friends	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	208
111580	Grand Soiree	2008 Fall-Winter Idea Book & Catalog	126
113242	Hit the Road	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	103
113710	Lexicon of Leaves	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	101
113236	Man's Best Friend	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	72
114423	Ocean Commotion	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	97
113728	Playful Petals	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	99
109276	Polka Dot	2008 Fall-Winter Idea Book & Catalog	135
111544	Putt Putt	2008 Fall-Winter Idea Book & Catalog	81
113240	Quilt Quips	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	53
113754	Really Retro	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	132
113403	Sip by Sip	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	51
113726	Sweet Stems	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	99
113250	That's Funny	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	63
113688	Wonderful Watercolors	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	85
114032	Acuarelas Maravillosas	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	85

Wheels

Item #	Wheel	Last Publication this Wheel Appeared in	Page #
113836	Fashion Forward	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	51
111259	Pinch Me	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	28
107559	Spot On	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	120
107560	Watercolor Vine	2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book & Catalog	84

Summer Fun with Country Living

2009-06-15T13:23:00.000-05:00

Dates: June 15 - August 31, 2009 or while supplies last

Stampin' Up! has partnered with Country Living magazine to create a unique craft kit, which they will feature in their July 2009 issue. You will love how this kit can help you create special memories with a fun and convenient, coordinated summer barbeque!

The exclusive Country Living Summer Cookout Kit includes the following products:

8 die-cut table tents (2 each of 4 colors)
Die-cut components, bamboo skewers, and envelopes to create 8 shish kabob invitations
12 die-cut coasters (3 each of 4 colors)
16 die-cut tags (4 each of 4 colors)
24 12" x 12" printed food wrapper sheets (12 each of 2 colors)
4 printed recipe cards
5 yards linen thread
Ruby Red Classic Stampin' Spot
Night of Navy Classic Stampin' Spot
Dig In stamp set (item number 116700)
Click here to see a picture of all the items.

Note: the kit does not include tablecloths, plates, or flatware.

Country Living is offering our customers a special subscription rate of just $10/year. Click here for more information.

Stampin' Up! Last Chance List

2009-06-01T22:38:00.010-05:00

Start the summer off right with these amazing offers!

From June 1-30, get your favorite discontinuing products—some up to 50% off—before they're gone forever!*

To view the Last Chance Stamp Sets by page number click here.
To view the Last chance Decor Elements* at 25% off click here. *Some are only available while supplies last.
To view the Last Chance Accessories* some up to 50% off click here. *Accessories are only available while supplies last. There appears to be a glitch on the website - so click on Show: All, on the right hand side, to see all the products on sale.

Print off the list and grab a glass of lemonade while you make out your list. You have until June 30th to order the Last Chance Stamp Sets and some of the Decor Elements, but the Accessories and some of the Decor Elements are only available while the supplies last - some are already gone - so don't wait. You can go to my website and click on Shop Now to place your order online and to make sure you don't miss out on those items you want.

Summer Fun Host a Workshop, Get Extra Rewards

2009-05-31T23:56:00.000-05:00

Dates: June 1-30, 2009

Summertime means flip flops, beach umbrellas, swimming pools, popsicles, and spending time with friends--both old and new. This June and July, Stampin' Up! is celebrating one of the most enjoyable times of the year with the Summer Fun Campaign.

Spend time this summer doing what you love with family and friends--hold a workshop during June and take advantage of the great offer that is coming your way.

Promotion Details:

The Summer Fun Hostess Bonus Promotion has two parts:

Hostesses who hold a $250-$399.99 workshop will receive an additional $20 in hostess free merchandise dollars.
Hostesses who hold a $400 or more workshop will receive an additional $40 in hostess free merchandise dollars.