Inkspiration Colour Challenge #16

As I mentioned in the previous post, this challenge card is a little late, but I'm glad I still sat down and had a little play with these bright and fun colours. Here they are:

Here is the card I came up with:

I've used a new stamp set: Morocco Bitsy Clear Stamps by Basic Grey.  I LOVE the elephant image and knew I would use alot.  I have lots of little elephant ornaments around my house too.

So I started with a base card in White cardstock, then layered some Designer Paper in Pumpkin Pie, then a peice of Real Red. I've stamped up a background with one of the images in this set. 

Then I've stamped the elephant and leaf images onto Whisper White cardstock, cut out and arranged onto my card with a lace doily. I hope your're not tired of seeing them; I have a very big pile to get thru!

I've added some twill and tied to the side with a small piece of red stitched ribbon and then added the button.  The sentiment is from Embrace Life.

Here's a closer look at the details:

Pop on over the Makeesha's if you would love to join in this week.  I'm sure you will be inspired by her wonderful creation and also by the Design Team.  I LOVE seeing what everyone creates each week.  And I'm off to do that now.  Enjoy your week. Til next time......

Product used:
Stamps: Morocco (Basic Grey), Embrace Life (SU)
Cardstock: White, Real Red, Pumpkin Pie DP
Ink: Real Red, Pumpkin Pie, Taken with Teal
Others: Doily, corner rounder punch, twill, stitched ribbon, button, Window punch, dimensionals.

The latest............

I really didn't know what to call this post; so it's an update on the latest happenings!  First up, you will notice I've missed posting my DT card for the latest challenge from Makeesha.  Last week, we were 'wiped-out' by a nasty bug, including myself.  It started off with the kids at the beginning of the week and then went onto me and then hubby.  And it wasn't a pleasant one.  So that was the reason for the missing card!  But..... I have made a card and will be posting that soon.

In the meantime, I wanted to share with you a card I made using my NEW Copic Markers.  I recently splurged and have started to get a collection of these fabulous markers.  Before I went out and bought them, I did a little research and decided that I didn't need whole sets to get started.  Instead I used this great post from Amy Rysavy, where she lists her favourite and most used colours.  I found this to be a great guide - the colours are a little bright and you do have to get used to them, but it certainly is a great start and you can build up from there.  Once I started using these colours, I could work out which other markers I would love to have and the shades that would suit me best.  I purchased my Copics from 7 Kids College Fund - they also have lots of other 'yummies' to view!

Anyway, onto my card. 

I've used one of the Stamping Bella stamps - these are great to start with because they don't have too many spaces to colour-in.  And I love this image - friends sharing a drink!

I've used my favourite punch - the lace doily from Martha Stewart.  I've also used a 'real' doily to layer the sentiment onto. Here's a little close up:

These two cards went out to two lovely girls who came to visit me at the end of last week.  I had my sister-in-law Renae and my friend Makeesha stay with me for a night so we could catch up. It was great to have some 'girl-time', going out for dinner, breakfast and shopping.   Thanks so much for the fabulous time we had!  You are both wonderful.

And did I say shopping! We walked the streets of Margaret River and these two girls, filled up the back seat with all their many shopping bags.  I ended up with a few myself, including two books recommended by Keesh.  I can't wait to sit down and have a read.

I'll be back soon with my card for the latest challenge from Makeesha.  Til then..

'me + Dad'

I've managed a little bit of scrapbooking this week.  I've been spending alot of time, going thru my craft room, sorting out the many boxes of assorted goodies I have and trying to decide what to keep and what I think I may use.  WOW, I really didn't know how much 'stuff' I had accumulated over the years.  It's amazing and has been lots of fun.  After focusing on Stampin'Up product for the past three years, it will be nice to use some of the other products in my stash, especially in scrapbooking.  So anyway, I've created this 8x8 layout using some neglected product that I found.  I love these cute photo's of Caden with his dad; they have such a close bond and share many fun times.

The base is SU cardstock in Not Quite Navy.  I've used the Friendly Words wheel to create a background.

I've matted the bigger photo onto a Top Note Diecut in Riding Hood Red.

I've made the little tag using by re-cycling a clothing tag - isn't it the cutest?  The other day a friend gave me some Cuttlebug dies that she no longer uses and I've already put one to good use - the little 'love' stamp on the tag was made with it.  I've added some dotted ribbon and a button. 

Here's a closer look at the details:

The chipboard letters to make the word 'dad',  have been painted with red paint, then I've sanded the edges.  I've stamped some heart images from the Sprinkles stamp set, but the photo does not pick this up.

Another layout completed for Caden's '1st year album'. 

Product used:
Stamps: Friendly Words, Expressive Flexible Phrases
Cardstock: Not Quite Navy, Riding Hood Red
Ink: Not Quite Navy
Others: Ribbon, chipboard letters, Top Note diecut, clothing tag, Cuttlebug, button, twine, paper piercer

Each month, Totally Addicted to Sketch, have sketch challenges which are designed for scrapbooking.  I love them; they help me to step out of my normal scrapbooking style and try some new things.  Here is November's sketch:

And here is what I've come up with:

I've used some very cute photo's of Caden, taken by my sister Aimee just a few months back.  His blue eyes really stand out, so that's been the story of my layout.

I started out with a base in Tangerine Tango as I wanted to pick up the orange in his t-shirt.  I've used the Sprinkles stamp set to make a background.

Then I've layered some patterned paper and some assorted cardstock.  I've used the Friendly Words stampin' round wheel on the strip of Bashful Blue.

I've printed out my journalling onto copy paper and simply cut out in strips.  The title is some sticker letters from Basic Grey.

For the heart embellisment, I've cut out a piece of orange felt with my pinking shears, then stitched on three buttons.  I've also added two small stitches onto the bottom journalling.  Here's a closer look at the felt heart:

The journalling reads as follows:

"I am always in awe of your brilliant blue eyes,

You have the ability to make people stop and stare,

Your big wide-eyed look can make hearts melt

These perfect blue eyes are precious to me

They belong to my adorable baby boy"

Thanks to Karen for this amazing sketch.  You can check out the details here if you wish to join in too.

Product used:
Stamps: Friendly Words wheel, Sprinkles (SU)
Cardstock: Tangerine Tango, Bashful Blue, Blue Bayou, Patterned paper
Ink: Bordering Blue, Tangerine Tango
Others: Felt, buttons, scallop edge punch, circle punch, sticker letters (Basic Grey), Window punch

Inkspiration Sketch Challenge #16

Happy Friday everyone.  I LOVE Fridays - after schools are so much more relaxed when I know the next day is Saturday - no lunches to make, no homework.  Just fun times with the boys.  I must say, I'm really looking forward to the Summer break. 

I also love Friday's coz it's challenge time. This weeks challenge from Makeesha - it's a lovely sketch.  Something a litte different, especially with the circle and butterfly elements.

Here is my creation for the challenge:

I chose to use Upsy Daisy, to make a background in the circle element.

I've started off with a base card in Kiwi Kiss, then layered on some patterned paper I had in my stash.  I've added some strips in Basic Grey as per the sketch, using my new Lace Doiley punch on the bottom strip. 

I've inked up the flower image in Kiwi ink, stamped onto the Whisper White, then moved slightly and stamped again.  This has give the shadow effect!  I've added some punched circles to the outer edge. 

For the embellisments, I've used a Fancy Felt flower and buttons.

The little frame is from a clear stamp which I've cut out and then used a sentiment from Pocket Silhouettes.

Here's a closer look at the embellishments:

Product used:

Stamps: Upsy Daisy, Pocket Silhouette, Frame (clear stamp)

Cardstock: Kiwi Kiss, Basic Grey, Whisper White, pattern paper

Ink: Kiwi Kiss, Basic Grey

Others: buttons, circle punch, CM cutter, felt flower, gingham ribbon, lace doiley punch - Martha Stewart

And because I am VERY fond of scrapbooking and also this little girl, I've used the sketch to create a cute, girly layout.

Amber LOVES the beach, so I've used the 'favourite' stamp from Life's Definitions.  The frame is from a set of clear stamps I have with assorted frame images.  They are just perfect for adding sentiments!
And I love the added touch of the doiley - it frames the photo nicely.

If you would love to join in with this weeks challenge, pop over to Makeesha's, and view the details and also her inspiring work.
Then be sure to check out the amazing work from the Design Team members:
Sarah-Jane
Kirsty
Renee
Cindy
Tracey

I look forward to checking out what you come up with.  Til next time...

Magnolia Down Under Challenge #26

One of my favourite challenges is the Magnolia Down Under Challenges, run by Kellie.  It's been a little while since I've joined in, but when I saw the sketch she had up for the fortnightly challenges, I had to create something for this one.  So here is the sketch to use:

And here is my creation:

This little Tilda with her ice-cream, is courtesy of Kellie herself.  She once sent to me some pre-stamped images to use and I've finally got around to using this one.  I love it and will have to look at getting this stamp for myself.  It's perfect for summery girl cards!

So I've started off with a base card of Pretty in Pink, then layered various cardstocks and DP as per the sketch layout.  I've used the lovely lace doiley punch by Martha Steward on the strip of Certain Celery DP.  It's so pretty.

I've coloured Tilda with my SU markers and aqua painter.  I love the end result, especially with watercolour paper. 

I've used some Certain Celery ribbon and added a Fancy Felt embellishment and button to the middle of the knot.  Then I've finished off the card with a sentiment from Family Phrases, using my SU circle punches.

Here's a closer look at the embellishment:

Thanks for a fabulous sketch Kellie.  Pop on over to the MDUC website to see the details, if you would like to join in too.

Product used:

Stamps: Magnolia, Family Phrases (SU)

Cardstock: Pretty in Pink, Certain Celery, Designer paper

Ink: Regal Rose

Others: Ribbon, Felt embellishment, pink button, lace doiley punch, circle punches (SU), distressing tool, aqua painter, SU marker pens.

A little change....

Yes, as you can see, I have a new blog header.  What do you think? My clever sister Aimee designed it for me and I LOVE it.  She is an amazing photographer, so hop on over to see her work.  Thanks sis - you are wonderful.

Thank you for your comments and emails regarding my previous post.  I do appreciate the postive words - I never thought I would or could leave Stampin'Up, but sometimes life has a nice way of showing you that there is a time and place for everything.  Now seems like a good time for me to leave; I look forward to spending more time on things that are important to me, whilst still making time for creativity.

Updated list and some news!

Hello all,

I've just updated my list of pre-loved stamps.  And I've also added some other items too.  Here is the link:

Pre-Loved Stamps and other items

My news is that I'm no longer a demonstrator for Stampin'Up. I have been with Stampin'Up for three years and have had the best time demonstrating with the beautiful products they have to offer and making new friends along the way.  As you can imagine, I've collected quite a few stamps along the way, some of which I will be parting with and others that will stay in my stash.  I will continue to use Stampin'Up products as they are truly unique.  And I will still continue to update this blog; this is something I really enjoy doing and hope to be updating more frequently, sharing with you my creations of cards and scrapbooking, using Stampin'Up but also many other stamps and products that I love. So I hope you will stay with me and continue to enjoy my creations. I love reading the comments and emails that I receive and certainly appreciate the postive words. So a big thank you!

Inkspiration Inspiration Challenge #15

It's Friday and challenge time AGAIN.  This week you can be inspired by this picture from Makeesha.  Don't these cushions look very modern and nice.

Here's what I've created for the challenge:

I have kept it rather simple, seeing as there was not alot of colour in the picture.
I have a base card in Basic Grey, then added a layer of Basic Black and then some white cardstock.  On this piece I've made up a background using the Pocket Silhouette stamp set.  I've used the grey and black ink, 'stamping off' some colour as I went long to create depth of field.  Before stamping onto the cardstock, I've spritzed the stamp with water; when when it's stamped onto the cardstock, there is a watercolour effect.
I've used a frame image from some clear stamps that I have.  I've used Stazon black for this, then added a sentiment from Best Yet to the centre of the frame.  Then I've cut it out and added to the card.
To finish off the card, I've added some black stitched ribbon.
There's something about using black on a card - it gives some elegance to the feel of it, don't you think!

So if you like this inspiration picture this week, pop on over to Makeesha's website to see all the details of how you can join in the fun.  She will inspire you further, with her creations and then be sure to check out the Design Team contributions as well.
They are: Sarah-Jane
Kirsty
Renee
Cindy

Enjoy and til next time....

Product used:
Stamps: Pocket Silhouette, Best Yet, Clear stamp (frame)
Cardstock: Basic Grey, Basic Black, White
Ink: Basic Black, Basic Grey, Stazon Black
Others: rhinestones, stitched ribbon

Creatalicious Challenge #3

I've made a card for the latest challenge from Bec at Creatalicious Challenges.  The challenge is to create a card using scraps of Designer Paper, new cardstock and a handmade flower!  So here's my creation:

I've used Gretal, one of the sweet Swiss Pixies stamps.

I've teamed this up with coloured cardstock - Choc Chip, Close to Cocoa and Rose Red; then added some DP from Rasberry Tart which was in my left-over basket. 

For the main image, I've stamped onto white cardstock in Stazon black, then coloured with ink pads and aqua painters.  I've added dimensional magic to the wings!

The handmade flower embellisment has been made with fabric, felt and some of the wide double-stitched SU ribbon in Rose Red.  I've added a button and twine to the centre.

The sentiment is from Best Yet (hostess set) and I've added some So Saffron ribbon to complete the card.

I love to incorporate fabric into my creations, so this was a fun challenge to do.  Thanks Bec!!

Product used:

Stamps: Swiss Pixies, Best Yet (hostess set)

Cardstock: Choc Chip, Close to Cocoa, Rose Red, DP Rasberry Tart, White

Ink: Close to Cocoa

Others: Ribbon (SU), fabric, SU punches, rhinestone, button, twine, scallop edge punch

Inkspiration Colour Challenge #15

I'm back after a lovely break and holiday in Bali with our boys.  It was a real treat to spend some time just relaxing, eating out, sun-baking and enjoying each others company.  Now it's back into normal routines again; always a little hard after doing 'nothing' for a week. 

So here's this weeks challenge from Makeesha.  We had these lovely 'earth' colours to work with:

And here's my creation:

I've made up this small card using the Organics Outlines stamp set, one of my favourites. 

I've started off with a base card in the Close to Cocoa, then added layers in each of the colours - Rust, Choc and Vanilla.  Onto the Vanilla cardstock, I've stamped up one of the images in Choc Chip and Rust ink.  Then I've added a strip of Choc cardstock onto which I've used the Eyelet border punch.  Then sentiment is from Best Yet (hostess set) and I've used various punches to cut out.  Then I've added a small crochet flower with a half pearl.

I found some lace doilies and table clothes this past week at one of the local op-shops.  If you've seen them, you will notice they have crocheted flowers on them.  So I've been busy cutting them out to use on my craft projects.  I think they are just gorgeous.

Product used:

Stamps: Organic Outlines, Best Yet

Cardstock: Really Rust, Close to Cocoa, Choc Chip, Very Vanilla

Ink: Choc Chip, Really Rust

Others: Crochet flower, half pearl, eyelet border punch, SU punches

I couldn't leave this challenge with just a small card, so I've also made up this 8x8 scrapbook layout, with this super cute photo of my Caden.  The photo was a perfect match for these colours!

For this page, I've used the Wild about You stamp set.  It's such a great set to use for boys.  I've stamped them onto Vanilla cardstock, cut out then mounted with dimensionals.

You will notice another lace doily - this one has been dyed in coffee - delicious.  It adds such great texture to the page. I've also used some twine and stamped the 'wild about you' sentiment on it in Choc Chip.  Then I've added a small button with some twine.

The final embellisment is a heart using the heart SU punch.  I've added some buttons, the bird image from the same stamp set and a little paper clip with twine.

Here's a closer look:

Product used:
Stamps: Wild about you, Sprinkles
Cardstock: Choc Chip, Really Rust, Close to Cocoa, Very Vanilla, Ski Slope DP
Ink: Choc Chip, Really Rust, Close to Cocoa
Others: Twine, Twill, Buttons, Lace Doily, Heart punch SU, dimensionals, Mat pack, Clips assortments
So I hope you love what I've come up with this week.  I enjoyed creating once again.  If you'd love to join in with this challenge, pop over to Makeesha's website to find all the details and more inspiration.
And be sure to check out the amazing creations from the Design Team as well:
Sarah-Jane
Kirsty
Cindy
Renee
Hope you can have some fun with these colours and I look forward to checking out some 'earthy' creations. Til next time....