True Friend - Thinking of You♠

It's fun to pick a color and then use different shades of it on a card. For this one, I used Bashful Blue as the card base, Night of Navy for the scroll work, and Brilliant Blue for the Butterfly and True Friend. The shades of light and dark made the card pop. Stamp Set used for this card was: Simple Friendship, item # 113397.

Card was designed using My Digital Studio, item #118108.

Today is the last day of the Fantastic Sale with bundled products up to 50% off. Don't miss out. Details are HERE.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Birthdays 3 - Another Card Idea to Share

Just having some fun with card ideas this week. As I start playing with images, designs often an idea will come into my head that I will make into a card. I've always liked the Party Hearty stamp set (item #111532) and the Garden Whimsy (item #113502). Thought they looked nice combined together for this card. Add a touch of Designer Series Paper, some solid card stock and a card is born.

This card was created using My Digital Studio by Stampin' Up!, but could be easily made with Stampin' Up! products listed above.

Remember many of my designs this week and for the month of December will be created using My Digital Studio. With all the hours I will be working, it is one way that I can keep my blog active and still give you ideas for things to create using your Stampin' Up! products or by using My Digital Studio. As soon as I am thru the holiday crunch, then the blog will become more hand created pieces. Hope you are enjoying the creations, and I hope many of you will try them at home too.

My Digital Studio By Stampin' Up! is item #118108.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Happy Thanksgiving - Oreo Turkeys

Happy Thanksgiving.

If you would like to learn how to make these darling turkeys, click HERE for complete details.

Have a wonderful holiday with family and friends. We each have so much to be thankful for.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

New Blog Entries

I had 3 blog entries in "draft" mode and when I went to publish them here they are now showing under Sunday instead of today. Hope you will take a minute to go back and look at the cards I made, and that they will give you inspiration:

http://kreateskards.blogspot.com/2009/11/just-for-fun.html
Purrrfect Friends

http://kreateskards.blogspot.com/2009/11/birdthday-cards-2.html
Birthday Cards 2

http://kreateskards.blogspot.com/2009/11/birthday-cards-1.html
Birthday Cards 1

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Stampin' Up! - HUGE SALE - Today thru Nov 30th, 2009

Don't miss out on the opportunity to save up to 50% off on bundled products thru Stampin' Up!. The sale begins today and ends on Monday November 30th, 2009 at 11:50 PM (MT). You may order directly thru my Stampin' Up! website. Here's what is on sale, be sure to use the "bundle item number" when ordering:

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) Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120298	Christmas Décor Bundle #2 Holly Beary Wreath Décor Elements (Chocolate, Real Red) Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements Chocolate Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements	$74.85	$44.91
120299	Christmas Décor Bundle #3 Holly Berry Wreath Décor Elements (Old Olive, Real Red) Real Red Vintage Ornaments Décor Elements 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.

Don't miss out on these fantastic deals, visit my on-line store today.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Just For Fun

When I made this card using My Digital Studio by Stampin' Up!, it made me think of when I was a child and each one of us had our own cat. These darling little kitties are not on any of our stamp sets, there are only available in My Digitial Studio. HOWEVER, Stampin' Up! does have two of my favorite stamp sets on Pg 61 of the main catalog. One is "C is for Cat", item #115764 and the other if you are a dog lover is called "D is for Dog", item #115784. Here are two wonderful quotes that are in the stamps sets:

From C is for Cat:
as every cat owner knows, nobody owns a cat .... Ellen Perry Berkeley

From D is for Dog:
a dog wags its tail with its heart ....Martin Buxbaum

Purrfect friends is a card that I just made for fun tonight. I like to post things that will possibly help you design cards or scrapbook pages on your own ... ones that will give you inspiration. I know so many of you are animal lovers, so hope it will give you inspiration today too.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Birdthday Cards 2

A quick and easy card to make, but very elegant too with bouquet of flowers on it.

To make this card, here are the Stampin' Up! products you will need:
Old Olive Card Stock, item #100702
Elegant Eggplant Card Stock, item #105126
Lavender Lace Card Stock, item #101614
Barely Banana Classic Ink Pad, item #101170
Summer Sun Classic Ink Pad, item #100537
Upsy Daisy Stamp Set, item #111710

The card above was created using My Digital Studio by Stampin' Up! (item #118108) but can easily be recreated with Stampin' Up! products listed above.

Stampin' Up! carries a complete link of products that are perfect for the scrapbooker, card maker, and/or paper crafter. Be sure to stop by my Stampin' Up! website to see all the products available. If you have any questions, please let me know.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Birthday Cards 1

Of all the cards, I probably make birthday cards the most. There are so many designs and themes for birthdays.

To create this card using Stampin' Up! Products:
Rich Razzleberry Card Stock, item #115316
Whisper White Card Stock, item #100730
Dusty Durango Card Stock, item #115321
Designer Brads Filigree, item #112577
1/2" Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon, item 115613 (use solid side)
..... NOTE: Digital ribbon used was 1/4" wide grosgrain
Black Classic Ink, item
Party Hearty Stamp Set, item #111532
Stampin' Write Markers, item #105541
(Stamp images out on whisper white card stock, color in with markers and cut out. Then attach to your card front.)

This image was created using My Digital Studio by Stampin' Up!, item #118108.

Don't miss out on the FANTASTIC Sale going on with Stampin' Up! right now. There are complete details on my blog ... click HERE TO VIEW.


Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Tree Christmas Card - Paper Punches

There are so many things you can create with paper punches. Think outside the box with them. The punch forming the trees at the bottom of the card are actually the Photo Corners Punch (item #109042). The punch makes the corners in two sizes, only one size was used in the card. They can be stacked closer together if you like too.

Then you can use the Star Punch (item #109045) to top the trees. Don't forget to accent with a gold brad (item #104337).

The ribbon shown is retired, but I would recommend using in its place: Sleigh Bells (item # 116795) which can be found in the Holiday Mini Catalog.

I would make your card base Very Vanilla, Real Red, or Old Olive. Then use a festive designer series paper like is found in the Christmas Jingle Simply Scrappin' Kit (item #115696) or Merry Moments Designer Series Paper (item #115672).

The card above was digitially created using My Digital Studio by Stampin' Up! (item #118108).

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Ornament Christmas Card - Mini Tutorial

As I have time over the next few weeks, I'm going to design some card ideas using My Digital Studio from Stampin' Up! (item #118108). I will make them cards that can be easily made using Stampin' Up! products you have at home. As I stated earlier, My Digital Studio is a great design tool.

This card was made using:
Tree Trimmings Stamp Set, item #116722
.....use classic black ink on real red card stock, then cut out the design
Christmas Greetings Stamp Set, item #115448
.....use classic black
.....The Merry Christmas sentiment above is from the digital product.
Scallop Edge Paper Punch
.....use real red card stock, attach to card using SNAIL Adhesive
Real Red 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon for bow, attach with Glue Dot.
Christmas Jingle Simply Scrappin' Kit, item #115696
.... used for Background Paper and Scallop Border
Very Vanilla Card Stock (item # 101650) for the card base.

Have fun, let your imagination run wild. You will be amazed at all the different creations you can make when you do.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Happy Thanksgiving Using My Digital Studio

I had a few minutes before getting ready for work today, and decided I would create a card using My Digital Studio. It just took a few minutes, and I am very pleased with the results. My Digital Studio is a great design tool. It allows me to "play" with the products, decide what I like the best, create it digitally, and then immediately create it using my regular card stock, ribbons, and stamps.

If you wanted to create this yourself:
Crushed Curry Patterns Designer Series Paper, item #115686
1/4" Pumpkin Pie Grosgrain Ribbon, item #109030
...... OR 1/2" Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (using solid color side), item #115609
Dusty Durango, item #115321 for accent behind the text
Always Stamp Set, item #113620
Sentiment was computer generated, but there are many stamp choices too.
My Digital Studio, item #118108

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

My Digital Studio Certification Program - I'm Certified !!!!

When I posted earlier today, I forgot to share with you my exciting news ... After many weeks of study, I have completed the "My Digital Studio Certification Program" and now am officially "Certified". Only Stampin' Up! Demonstrators who have taken all the webinars classes, the quizzes, and then submitted projects have become "Certified" Our certification is listed on our official Stampin' Up! websites under "My Story".

I have worked hard to achieve this goal, and wanted to share my excitement with all of you. If you have any questions, or would like to order your own copy of "My Digital Studio", please contact me or order thru my Stampin' Up! website. (NOTE: There are minimum system requirements for this software.)

System Requirements

Prior to installing My Digital Studio, ensure that your computer meets the following technical specifications:

Windows:

• Windows XP or Vista
• Pentium 4, 1 GHz or better (1.6 GHz recommended) or comparable AMD processor
• 512 MB RAM available (1 GB or more recommended, 1 GB required for Windows Vista users)
• 16 MB Video RAM (64 MB recommended)
• Available Hard Disk Space: 5 GB minimum
• DVD-ROM Drive

Macintosh:

• OS X 10.4.x or greater (with latest Java update)
• G4 500 MHz or Faster (G5 1 GHz or better recommended)
• 512 MB RAM (1 GB or more recommended)
• 8 MB Video RAM (64 MB recommended)
• Available Hard Disk Space: 5 GB minimum
• DVD-ROM Drive

Other Requirements:

• QuickTime Player version 7.1.0 or higher is required. (Available on the My Digital Studio disc 1 or at http://www.quicktime.com/.)
• System Settings
• Monitor Resolution: 1024 x 768 or higher (1152 x 864 or higher recommended)

Recommended Additional Equipment

• CD or DVD Burner (Required for interactive album and DVD-Video output options)
• Printer
• Speakers
• Digital Camera
• Microphone
• Digital Camcorder
• Scanner

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Catching Up

Hi Everyone,

I know it has been a few days since I posted last. The next month because of the holidays, I will be working many more hours. I'm working as retail seasonal help. So won't be on my blog as much as before for the month of December.

I want to assure all of you that I will still be checking e-mails and following customers' orders too on a daily basis whether I am working or not. There is so much new and exciting things coming the first of the year for Stampin' Up! and I will post more information as soon as we are allowed after December 1st.

If you have any questions, e-mail me and I promise a response. Remember too that you can order directly thru my website (link below my name).

Hope you have a wonderful week. Seems impossible that Thanksgiving is next week. The time has flown by. I am very thankful for all of you. You have added many smiles this last year to my life, and I love sharing my joy of card making with each of you.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Workshop Area

I'm truly blessed to have my own workshop area in my home. It is perfect for the classes I teach for Stampin' Up! (and nice too if we want to have a large group over for dinner). We moved our family room furniture into the formal living room (sold that furniture) and turned what had been a kitchen/dining/family room area into a kitchen/workshop area. I LOVE having all this space for my classes. I have 4 six foot tables that can be put together easily with lots of space for all.

I had a class yesterday here, so set up with 2 of the tables together and two under the big window. The two under the big window I used for display of products.


All ready for the group to arrive.




Display area of ideas for the holidays: Treat Boxes, Tea Light Holders, paper holders, embellishment caddy, Scrappin' Kits, Rub-on Kits, Impressions folders.

Had to show my newest creation: The Rag Purse.


The counter next to the fridge is my area for the Big Shot and the dies.

So many had asked about what my area looked like, so had to share. I also have an office area where I mainly do my card making.


Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Rag Purse - Using the Big Shot

Isn't this purse amazing .... the scallop squares for it were cut out with my Big Shot and the Stampin' Up! exclusive BigZ clear die "Stampin' Up! Scallop Square". It just took me a couple of hours to make. I used 3 different fabrics and even the button is from Stampin' Up!. It is Real Red Designer Button from the button set called Playground. It was a perfect match for all the bright colors in my purse.

Now I can't take credit for this purse idea ... I want to personally thank Angie Kennedy Juda for her wonderful directions and videos on her Chic'n Scratch blog. I've never had success before with quilting and truly had given up the thought that I could make a quilted item myself. Well, I know how to use the Big Shot and I LOVE IT plus I know how to sew a seam/straight line so decided to give it a try. The purse is reversible too is you don't want the ragged edges to show. The inside has straight hidden seams, so you could easily turn it inside out if you needed the purse to be a bit more dressy. I like the rag edges too, so it makes this purse very versatile.

Stampin' Up! Items Used:
Designer Buttons ... Playground, item #116313 on Pg 181
Big Shot Die-Cut Machine, item #113439 on Pg 194
Stampin' Up! Exclusive BigZ clear die, Scallop Square, item #115950 on Pg 199

I won't list the sewing items needed, they are listed on Angie's site. I was amazed at how many layers of fabric I could cut with the Big Shot. Now I would love to make a rag quilt .... hmmm, if I do I could do knots with our designer buttons too to tie the quilt. Oh so many ideas, so little time ... LOL.


Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Treat Boxes - Product Review

I've been a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator now for over a year. I have to admit there are a few products I haven't tried and the Treat Boxes were one of them. One of my customers ordered some for the holidays, and I decided it was time I tried them too. They are a winner in my book. Here's my overview/review of them:

Treat Boxes
Item #115690
Approx Dimensions: 4 5/8" x 2 3/8" x 6 1/8"
Color of Boxes: Combination of Chocolate Chip and Close to Cocoa
5 per package ... $3.95

IMPORTANT NOTE: The Treat Boxes are coated, food-safe boxes for gifts and all kinds of treats. Boxes ship flat, ready to assemble. They are really easy to put together as they hook into place. No adhesive required unless you were going to put something heavy in it.

As you can tell, I jumped in feet first to get ready for the holidays. I made ten of the Treat Boxes and a dozen Votive Holders (with battery candles). The Treat Boxes are filled with candies and small gift items for friends.

I decorated each of my Treat Boxes with ribbon, a brushed silver star and modern label punch with Merry Christmas sentiment.

The above photo was to show you the box by itself in a bit of a close-up. Wouldn't they be wonderful filled with homemade fudge or cookies !!! They are perfect too for any type of small gift and you will be amazed at how much they can actually hold.

They do have a hand/finger handle in them ... I covered mine on the front with the ribbon since the items are light weight and both handles were not needed for this Treat Box that I filled. If you look close you will see a slit in the fold over part, that is what holds the Treat Box together. If I had used a more narrow ribbon, I could of placed it between the slit and the handle easily.

I feel this is another item that could be used year around, not just for the holidays.

I used the Large Star Punch, Modern Label Punch, Word Window Punch, Teeny Tiny Wishes, 3/4" Polka-Dot Grosgrain Ribbon in Real red, and Very Vanilla Cardstock.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Veterans Day

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Christmas - Hershey Nugget Treat Bags - Mini Tutorial

This makes a perfect gift item or stocking stuffer. So easy to make too AND who doesn't LOVE chocolate especially at the holidays. This is a mini-tutorial so that you can make the Nugget Treat Bags too.

Front View of the Hershey Nugget Treat Bags

Back view of the treat bags.

All products used are Stampin' Up! with the exception of the Hershey Nuggets. I used the all milk chocolate (no nuts) nuggets for this which are wrapped in silver foil.

Supplies Used:
Very Vanilla card stock (item #101650) ... 4 1/4" wide x 5" high (score the 5" at 2 1/2")
Merry Moments Designer Series Paper (item #115672) ... pick your favorite patterns in the pack to use
.........6 pieces 1" x 3 " for wrapping your Hershey nuggets
.........1 piece 3" x 6" for the 3 ornaments to be punched out of
Winter Post Stamp Set (item #111780)
Ruby Red Classic Ink pad (item #102259)
Chocolate Chip Classic Ink pad (item #100908)
Crop-A-Dile (item #108362)
Gold Brads (item #104337) ... used 2
Earth Element Brads (item #106955) ... used 1 in old olive color for the snowflake center
3/16" Corner Rounder paper punch (item #109047)
Ornament Paper Punch (item #116794 - holiday mini catalog)
Sleigh Bells Ribbon (item #116795 - holiday mini catalog) ... 5" of ribbon
Sticky Strip (item #104294)
SNAIL Adhesive (item #104332)
Bone Folder (item #102300)
Medium Flat (4" x 6") Cellophane Bags (item #102757 --- there are 50 to a package for $4.50)

Directions:

1. Score the 5" side of the Very Vanilla card stock at 2 1/2", then crisply crease with the bone folder.
(note: if you have the Big Shot, you can make this tag using the Top Note die).

2. Take the 3/16" corner rounder and round the corners of the Very Vanilla card stock.

3. Winter Post Stamp Set:
.....Stamp the To & From with Chocolate Chip Classic Ink ... come in about 1/2" from left side
.....Stamp the Snowflake in Ruby Red about 1/2" in from the right side. You will want this close to the bottom of the paper because of the ribbon.

4. Using Sticky Strip attach your ribbon to the front of the tag and wrap around the front (do not bring ribbon around the back of the tag).

5. Using the 1/8" punch on the Crop-A-Dile, punch out the center of your ruby red snowflake. Insert the Old Olive Brad opening the prongs once inserted to keep the brad in place.

6. Set the tag aside. We'll come back to it shortly.

7. Wrap each of the Hershey Nuggets with a 1" x 3" piece of designer series paper. I find that putting a bit of sticky strip on the back side in the middle really helps.
.....Adhere the middle to the top of the nugget.
.....Wrap around to determine where your fold over will be and then attach sticky strip to the fold over area.

8. Put wrapped Hershey Nuggets in the cellophane bag.

9. Attach the cellophane bag to the tag using Sticky Strip.

10. Punch two holes all the way thru the front of the tag, the cellophane bag, and the back of the tag using the Crop-A-Dile 1/8" hole punch.
.....Put in the gold brads and open the prongs.

11. Punch out 3 ornaments using the Ornament Paper Punch and the designer series paper.
.....Using SNAIL adhesive, layer them on the back of the tag covering the prongs.

NOTES: Do not use staples to attach your tag and bags especially if being given to children. You can eliminate the brads too by using more sticky strip if the candy will be going to small children.

This is a very versatile gift idea that can be used year round for many different occasions just by changing the stamps and the paper used. Perfect for party favors, bridal showers, etc.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Petals-A-Plenty Textured Impressions Folder: Product Review

Stampin' Up! Holiday Mini Catalog has some new dies and folder for the Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine. The folder that I am reviewing tonight is called: Stampin' Up! Textured Impressions Folder Petals-A-Plenty. It is item #116824 and is priced at $7.95. You will find it on page 21 of the mini catalog. This folder is exclusive to Stampin' Up! and coordinates with the Berry Christmas stamp set (item #116509) and Christmas Cocoa Specialty paper (item #116770) ... all on page 21 of the mini catalog.

I created 4 cards recently using the Petals-A-Plenty folder. It is so easy to use with the Big Shot and the results are stunning.


Card #1 ...
Old Olive card stock for the base (item #100702)
Merry Moments Designer Series Paper (item #115672) for the snowflake background
Real Red card stock (item #102482) for the accent under the ribbon
Sleigh Bells Ribbon (item #116795 - Holiday Mini)
Ornament Paper Punch (item #116794 - Holiday Mini)
Versamark Ink (item #102283) for the inside of the ornament and accented it with glitter glue
Princess Time stamp set (item #116720) for the tiny flower in the ornament

For this card I used just a touch of accent using the Petals-A-Plenty under the ribbon.


Card # 2
Real Red card stock (item #102837)
Whisper White card stock (item #100730)
Real Red 1" Double-Stitched Grosgrain Ribbon (item #115607)
Christmas Greetings stamp set (item #115448)
Real Red Classic Ink (item #103133)

This is the card that I made using the silk flower I changed the color on with Stampin' Write markers. I love the textured look behind the flower. It reminds me of a Christmas package all wrapped and ready to be given to a very special person.


Card #3
Real Red card stock (item #102837)
Whisper White card stock (item #100730)
Real Red Classic Ink (item #103133)
Real Red 1" Double-Stitched Grosgrain Ribbon (item #115607)
Silver Elastic Cord (item #109866 - Holiday Mini)
Merry Moments Designer Series Paper (item #115672)
Ornament Paper Punch (item #116794 - Holiday Mini)
Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp set (item #115370)
Brushed Silver card stock (item #100712)
Modern Label paper punch (item #116630)
Word Window paper punch (item #105090)

I thought the Silver Elastic Cord added a realistic touch to the ornament. You can also purchase it in gold (item #109867). I learned a new technique on how to mask out an area of the impressions folder so that it does not emboss. Great way to highlight an area for stamping etc. Will show how to do that later in the week.

Card #4
Real Red card stock (item #102837)
Old Olive card stock for the base (item #100702)
Merry Moments Designer Series Paper (item #115672)
Ornament Paper Punch (item #116794 - Holiday Mini)
Christmas Greetings stamp set (item #115448)
Chocolate Chip Classic Ink (item #100908)

For this card I put the card front into the folder and ran it thru (again masking the area so not all of it embossed). Also embossed some real red card stock and then punch out ornament designs.

Wanted to show numerous way to use the folder. They really are versatile. I'm sure that you will think of even more ways to use it. I believe it is a folder that could be used year round not just at the holidays.

If you have any questions or would like to place an order, please contact me directly or place your order thru my Stampin' Up! website.


Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Ornament Card With Red Bow

This is my version of a card made by Andrea Walford. She made such a beautiful card that I had to try it too. I didn't have the same stamp set that she did for the swirls so I improvised and am pleased with the results.


Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Tea Lights - WOW

At our last team meeting, Julie Kahsin showed us how to make the Tea Light that is pictured in the middle. I had so much fun making it that I had to immediately go and order the Stampin' Up! Fancy Favor, item #115965. This is a BigZ XL die that is used with the Big Shot Die-Cut Machine. This is an "exclusive" die for Stampin' Up!.

Use the 1 3/4" Circle Punch, item #112004 for the openings.

Any stamp set could be used for the image that has been stamped on a 2 1/2" x 2 1/2" piece of White Vellum Card Stock, item # 101856. When you stamp the image, be sure to stamp firmly and remove the stamp straight up. On vellum, there is a greater chance of smearing and it does take a bit longer to dry. I used Classic Ink with great success. I used the Basic Black classic ink. The stamped image faces outward and if you want to color the image in do it from the back.

On the red tea light holders, I used the remnant paper that was scalloped to accent the holder. It was a perfect fit and I accented using a sponge dauber (item #102892) and Platinum Shimmer Paint (item #116807).

The Tea Lights are so versatile, they can be used for any occasion with just a change of color and image. They also could be filled with candy, confetti, tissue paper to make it a little bag of goodies.

DO NOT use a real candle in them, they are paper and flammable. I used a battery operated tea light that you can find at most stores.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Silk Flower Pretties Christmas Card

On my blog the other day, I showed you how to color a silk flower. The flowers that I had made are used on this card today. I love how it looks on this card, don't you! I think it looks a bit like a wrapped present.

Stampin' Up! Products Used:
Real Red Card Stock, item #102482, 5 1/2" x 8 1/2"
Whisper White Card Stock, item #100730, 4 1/4" x 4" and 1 piece 3 1/4" x 1" for sentiment
Real Red 1" Double-Stitched Grograin Ribbon, item # 115607, 5 1/2"
Christmas Greetings Stamp Set, Item #115448
Real Red Classic Stamp Pad, item #103133
Sticky Strip, item #104294
Dimensionals, item #104430
Mini Glue Dots, item #103683
Big Shot Die Cut Machine, item #113439
Stampin' Up! Textured Impressions Folder Petals-A-Plenty, item #116824

This is a quick and easy card. When you adhere the Petals-A-Plenty to your card base, I recommend using the sticky strip. I used dimensionals on the sentiment and glue dots to adhere the silk flowers to the ribbon.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

Stampin' Up! Three Promotions

Stampin’ Up! just announced a brand new promotion called Holiday Gift Giving Guide, here are the details:

Dates: November 1, 2009-January 4, 2010

Details: You'll love the convenience of our Holiday Gift-Giving Guide! With gift ideas for kids, teens, neighbors, and more, it's your one-stop shop for all your holiday needs.

Plus, when you spend $50 on products in the guide, you'll get a Décor Elements for FREE (up to a $16.95 value)!

Promotions ... click to view

Decor Elements Catalog ... click to view (right hand side of site, click on Definitely Decorative)

FAQs
Q: Can a customer earn more than one FREE Décor Element?
A: Yes! For every $50 a customer spends on products in the Gift-Giving Guide, she can choose a Décor Element valued up to $16.95.

Q: Can a customer combine free Décor Elements to get a single more expensive Décor Element?
A: No. Each free Décor Element a customer earns can only be used for a single Décor Element worth $16.95 or less.

Q: Does a customer have to spend $50 on products in the Gift-Giving Guide to qualify or can she spend $50 on any Stampin' Up! products?
A: In order to qualify for the free Décor Element, a customer must purchase $50 worth of products from the Gift-Giving Guide.

Q: If a product is shown in the Gift-Giving Guide, but is not listed, does that product qualify for the promotion?
A: No. Only products listed in the Gift-Giving Guide qualify for the promotion.

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Sweet Rewards Hostess Promotion

Through November 30, get 50 percent off My Digital Studio^™ when you host a $400 workshop! Plus, get any one item from the Holiday 2009 Mini Catalog for just $10 when you host a $250 workshop.

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Digital+ Starter Kit (If you would like to become a demonstrator.)
With the introduction of My Digital Studio, Stampin' Up! is now offering an all-new business opportunity with the Digital+ Starter Kit. Priced at just $185, the Digital+ Starter Kit contains: ...My Digital Studio software ...Party Hearty and Petal Pizzazz stamp sets ...Whisper White card stock (8-1/2" x 11") ...Earth Elements assorted card stock (8-1/2" x 11") ...Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, Real Red, and Tempting Turquoise ClassicStampin' Pads® ...Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie, and Real Red Stampin'Write® markers ...Chocolate Chip 1/4" grosgrain ribbon ...Real Red 1" double-stitched grosgrain ribbon ...Button Latte Designer buttons ...Stampin' Dimensionals® ...Mini Glue Dots ...SNAIL Adhesive® ...Business supplies (product catalogs, order forms, training DVD,and other supplies) Combining My Digital Studio with traditional embellishments and other Stampin' Up!® products allows you to not only effectively showcase hybrid projects, but also demonstrate projects using non-digital elements. Contact me today to get started!

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Orders may be placed directly thru me or thru my Stampin’ Up! Website. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)

And the Winner Is .....

Hal and I stayed up past midnight so that we could do the "Chance to Win Over $200 in Stampin' Up! Merchandise" drawing. I put all the names in a big bowl, Hal closed his eyes and picked one. The lucky winner is:

Carmen R.

Congratulations Carmen!!!!! I will contact you to make arrangements for you to get your prize.

Thanks to all of you that made purchases the last two months too. I appreciate each and every order that is placed, no matter what size/dollar amount.

(NOTE: This was a personal promotion/drawing that was in no way sponsored by Stampin' Up! I purchased the products myself that were used in this drawing as the prize.)

Mary
http://marydirector.stampinup.net/
Stampin' Up! -- Discover Your Creativity
(On-line ordering now available thru my website)