The Technique Trail

2012-01-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

Can I interest you in coffee and the paper this morning?

This little card uses two techniques from the new Stampin' Companion CD: 70 Tutorials exclusively using SU products (order HERE). Many of you have been getting them in the mail over the weekend and the rest who ordered so far will get them early this week!

The three techniques I used were the Zagged Newsprint, Watercolor Pencils and Wisped Framelits Techniques. I love way my sweet little card turned out!

Hope your coffee is strong and your news is good -- have a great day!

Recipe:

All Stamps and Materials: Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Morning Cup

Paper: Tangerine Tango, Daffodil Delight, Early Espresso, Whisper White

Ink: Basic Black, Sahara Sand, Daffodil Delight

Other: Scallop Border Punch, Daffodil Delight Satin Ribbon, Label Framelit

Stampin' Companion Blog Hop!

2012-01-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the last stop on the Technique Junkie Newsletter mini blog hop celebrating the release of the Stampin' Companion CD! I hope you have enjoyed the hop so far. If this is your first stop, I suggest starting at the Design Team blog (http://techniquejunkies.blogspot.com) so you don't miss anything.

My project today is an example of the Notes Corkboard Tutorial from the CD. I love this sweet little memo board! With the note cards attached right to the board and decorated push-pins, it is a great item to hang in the kitchen or office. And it takes just minutes to make, too.

The Stampin' Companion CD contains 70 tutorials that exclusively use Stampin' Up! products. The CD is only $17.95 to US/Canadian addresses, or $19.95 for overseas addresses. The first wave of CDs are being mailed today. If you haven't ordered yours yet, you can order it directly from my blog, or from the Stampin' Companion webpage.

Thank you for coming to the hop -- I hope you enjoyed our preview!

Vintage Collage from the Stampin' Companion

2012-01-10T15:46:00.001-05:00

This Vintage Collage card is an example of one of the 70 tutorials from the new Stampin' Companion CD (70 tutorials exclusively using Stampin' Up! products). I love the aged, Chic look of this technique.

I just hear from my printer, too -- the CDs will be here tomorrow, so if you have not yet ordered yours, do it today so you receive yours with the first of the CDs mailed! You can see a full list of the tutorials and order your CD HERE.

Card Recipe:

Artist: Pat Huntoon
Stamps: Artistic Etchings, Word Play, Established Elegance
Paper: First Edition Specialty Paper, Basic Black, Whisper White, Calypso Coral
Ink: Basic Black, Basic Gray, Craft WhiteMarkers: Basic Black
Other: Scalloped Border Puch, Stampin' Write Markers, Basic Pearls
©1998-2012 Stampin’ Up!®

Blended Marker Free Tutorial!

2012-01-06T10:00:00.001-05:00

As you might have heard, Technique Junkie Newsletter has just released a brand new CD: Stampin' Companion: 70 Tutorials exclusively using Stampin' Up! products.*

One of the easy tutorials on the CD is how to blend Stampin' Write Markers to get a watercolored, or a more subtle, look. On the example below, I wanted to create shadows and contrast to a "white" image; using the markers by themselves would have resulted in hard lines -- not the soft blended look that I wanted to achieve. I used the Blended Marker Technique (FREE tutorial below the image) to create the look I wanted.

This is one of the 70 tutorials from the Stampin' Companion CD. The Techniques on the CD range from easy, like this one, to more complex. Every tutorial uses ONLY Stampin' Up! products, from the trimmers to the stamps and everything in-between. It is only $17.95 (US and Canada) ($19.95 for overseas addresses) and all of the tutorials are in this format: http://www.techniquejunkies.com/blended-markers.pdf

(Note: If you cannot get the link to work, copy and paste it into your browser).

To order this awesome CD, go to the Stampin' Companion Page, order from my blog directly, or order from the Technique Junkie Newsletter home page. A list of the 70 tutorials is also on the Stampin' Companion page.

If you are a demo, this CD is wonderful for workshop ideas. If you are just a fan, like me, you will love knowing what to do with all of your wonderful Stampin' Up! products!

Happy Stamping...

Card recipe - All Products used from Stampin' Up!:
Paper: Night of Navy, Pool Party, Basic White, Island Indigo Attic Boutique DSP
Ink: Basic Black, Pool Party
Stamps: Zoo Review
Other: Stampin' Write Markers, Blender Pen, Framelits Labels Collection, White Pen, Isaland Indigo Baker's Twine, Basic Pearls, Stampin' Dimensionals

*The Technique Junkie Newsletter, and the products and services it provides, are not affliated or endorsed by the Stampin' Up! Corporation.

Announcing: Nirvana for SU Fans

2012-01-03T10:53:00.001-05:00

Do you love SU? If so, you will love our brand new CD:

Stampin' Companion - 70 tutorials exclusively using Stampin' Up! products.

This CD has a terrific blend of cards, projects, and other ideas. Every tutorial uses current Stampin' Up!* products, including items from the current mini catalog and Sale-a-Bration. The CD is a collaboration between Pat Huntoon and Jane Bosi and uses all of the products -- including the dies, sizzlits/framelits, smooch paints, inks, stamps, paper, etc., from the current Stampin' Up! catalogs.

If you are a demonstrator, this CD will provide you with workshop ideas for many months to come....and if you are just a fan (like me), you will enjoy using your SU Products with these tutorials.

This CD -- with 70 step-by-step tutorials -- is only $17.95. Order HERE (or from the TJ home page, or from my blog directly:

You will love this CD!

The Technique Junkie Newsletter and the products and services it providess, are not affiliated nor endorsed by the Stampin' Up! Corporation.

Drumroll please...The winners of the hop!

2011-12-07T09:51:00.001-05:00

I must apologize for posting this two days late. I have been having technical difficulties! With no further ado, allow Me to announce the winners of the Blog Hop!

First, the daily winners:

Monday's winner of the Classy Cards 'n Such Gift Certificate: Maria Daubert

Tuesday's winner of the Rogue Redhead Designs Stamps sheet: Darlene L

Wednesday's winner of the Paper Temptress Gift Certificate: Vicki Kertz

Thursday's winner of the Mark's Finest Papers a Heinrich Corporation Stamp Set: Stamping Sue W

Friday's Winner of the Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps Stamp Set: Manna C

and finally...the Grand Prize winner of the huge package of stamps and the TJ FOR LIFE prize is.....Shelly Schmidt!

Congratulations, ladies, I will be contacting each of you individually about your prizes. Thanks for playing along to all of you, and to everyone else who joined us... And a special thank you to our vendors for supplying so many great prizes, too!

Final day for hopping inspiration!

2011-12-02T04:30:00.000-05:00

Today is Day 5 of the Technique Junkie Blog Hop Extravaganza, and today our featured sponsor is Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps! We have a stamp set giveaway for today from SNS, and, of course, a prize in the grand prize basket, too, so make sure you leave a comment on my blog today to be entered to win both! Here is the stamp set being given away today:

My card today uses the Pleated Front Technique from the 3D and Fun Folds Paper Craft CD. Did I mention that there are 70 tutorials on this CD? And it is only $17.95 for US and Canadian residents (overseas: $19.95). I hope you can see what a bargain it is after 5 days of hopping!

You might be wondering why I used Sweet 'n Sassy's Christmas Joy Stamp set instead of the one being given away today. It's because my mom loved birds - and especially cardinals -- and I use them any chance I can. It makes me feel warm and loved just to color a cardinal! This stamp is especially pretty and beautiful with Copic Coloring.

Don't forget that tomorrow I will post the names of all of the daily winners, plus I will be posting a picture of the Grand Prize. You will have until Monday, December 5 at 9am EST to enter for the grand prize drawing by commenting on any of MY blog posts from Monday through Friday (from the hop).

Ifyou have been following along already you should have come from Chris Dickinson's Blog. If you did not, start at the Technique Junkie Blog andgo from there. You won't want to miss any stops along the way.Here are all the hoppers today:

The Technique Junkie Newsletter Blog

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps Blog

Thanks for stopping by today -- I hope you had fun this week!

Blog Hop - Day Four

2011-12-01T04:30:00.000-05:00

Today is Day Four of the Technique Junkie Blog Hop Extravaganza (if you haven't been following along, why don't you take a look at this post), and today we partner with the talented folks at Mark's Finest Papers, a Heinrich Company. I hope you started hopping at the TJ Design Team Blog, but if not, go there now and start fresh!

I made a Fancy Fold-out Card from the 3D and Fun Folds CD to celebrate the hop today. I was really intimidated at first by this technique -- but it was simple as pie! (I did find an error on the tutorial, though, so if you have purchased the Cd and would like the correction to the instructions, email me and I will send it to you: phuntoon@optonline.net.) This is what the card looks like opened up:

Mark's Finest Papers, a Heinrich Company, is sponsoring our giveaway today. The gorgeous stamps I used on my artwork are from the Ice and Snow set -- the set that is being given away to one lucky winner who leaves a comment on my blog! This is what the set looks like:

And don'tcha just love the icicles? They may be my new favorite winter stamps! This is what they look like all "iced-up":

Here is a list of all of the hoppers today -- such talented ladies!

The Technique Junkie Newsletter Blog

Mark's Finest Papers aHeinrich Company Blog

Don't forget, Mark's Finest Papers a Heinrich Company also has a stamp set in the Grand Prize Package, too. To enter for today's prize, and for the Grand Prize, simply leave me a comment on this blog. I will be selecting the daily winners on Saturday, then the overall winner will be announced on Monday, December 5th. Good luck!

One last thing! We would love to see what you make with this technique, the free Double Twisted Easel Technique, or any technique from the 3D CD! If you want to play along with us, link up to the hop using the linky tool below. You do NOT need to play along in order to win any prize (you only need to leave a comment). have fun!

Paper Temptress at the HOP!

2011-11-30T04:30:00.000-05:00

It is Day Three of the TJ Blog Hop, and we are celebrating today with Paper Temptress! What could be better than having a partner who is all about paper when you are creating 3D Paper Crafts? And to make it even better, Paper Temptress is offering a $25.00 gift certificate for today to one lucky winner, and another $25.00 gift certificate for the gift basket drawn on Monday.

Today, I made the Tri-Fold Out Card from the 3D and Fun Folds Paper Crafts CD using luxurious papers from Paper Temptress. The card at the top is closed, and the two pictures below show the card with each of the flaps open:

In person, this card is shimmery, textural, and just plain pretty as a picture. The base of the card uses Alpine Aster Glimmer, and I used Cappuccino Mica/Metallic, Green ruche and Khaki Ruche to compliment it with the layers. You can see hints of the texture and glimmer on the pictures above!

Want ot win the $25.00 gift certificate from the Paper Temptress? Just leave me a message on today's post -- you will be entered to win today, then you will also have an entry for the grand prize basket, too.

Make sure that you visit the rest of the hop, too:

The Technique JunkieNewsletter Blog

You can also play along with us! Feel free to post your artwork using the Double Twisted Easel Technique, or any of the techniques on the 3D and Fun Folds CD. Then add your work to the blog hop below!

Blog Hop - Day 2 -- Give it a whirl!

2011-11-29T04:30:00.000-05:00

Today is Day 2 of the Technique Junkie Newsletter Blog Hop, and we are partnering with the folks at Rogue Redhead Designs today! If you missed reading about the hop yesterday, please read the post HERE for details on the prizes and to see what you have missed.

For today's hop, I made the Double Twisted Easel card from the 3D and Fun Folds CD using the Candy Kisses stamp set from Rogue Redhead Designs. It is the same set that RRD is giving away to one lucky winner of today's prize!!

All week long we are celebrating the arrival of the 3D and Fun Folds CD. The CD contains 70 step-by-step tutorials in pdf format, with pictures for each step. New to TJ CDs? Here is a tutorial direct from the CD for the Double Twisted Easel card as shown above:

http://techniquejunkies.com/double_twisted_easel.pdf

All 70 of the pdfs on the CD are in that same great format -- yes, SEVENTY. And it is only $17.95 for US/Canadian Addresses, and $19.95 for Overseas addresses! More details are HERE.

If you started here, take a moment to go back to the Design Team Blog and start from the beginning. The players today are:

TheTechnique Junkie Newsletter Blog

Rogue Redhead Designs

JackieKalchert

BeverlyG.
Jean FranksBeck

Holly Brown

Jane Bosi

LauraLiddell

JoanneWardle

Chris Dickinson

StephanieSeverin

SharonBriss

Pat Huntoon

Once you have been to all of the blogs, come back here and leave a message on my blog. Your entry will be placed to win the stamps above, and you will be entered for the Grand Prize drawing on Saturday, too! Enjoy hopping and good luck!

It's a weeklong blog-hopping extravaganza!

2011-11-28T03:57:00.000-05:00

Helloand welcome to the Technique Junkie Newsletter BlogHop! All week long we will be hopping in conjunction with our favorite vendors to show case our new 3Dand Fun Folds CD. Every day we have new designers, new prizes, new artwork -- tons of fun! At the end of the week, we will have a grand prize basket for one lucky winner too!

A fantasticgroup of design team members from both Classy Cards ‘n Such and the TechniqueJunkie Newsletter have helped put together today's Blog Hop to kickoff the week.One Lucky hopper will receive a $25.00 Gift Certificate to spend in the Classy Cards 'nSuch Store, too!

We have aBlog Hop happening each day with an opportunity for you to win many prizes fromsome of our wonderful advertising companies! Please stop through EVERY DAY and take your time visiting each blog! You have until 11:59pm EST December 2^nd toleave comments on as many blogs as you can.

Monday –Joint Blog Hop with Classy Cards ‘n Suchwww.classycardsnsuch.com

Tuesday –Join Blog Hop with Rogue Redhead Designswww.rogueredheaddesigns.com

Wednesday –Joint Blog Hop with Paper Temptress

Thursday –Joint Blog Hop with Mark’s Finest Papers a Heinrich Company

Friday – Joint BlogHop with Sweet ‘n Sassy Stamps

On Saturday,December 3, I will be announcing the winners fromeach company. Be sure to hop along on each day! There will be FIVE WINNERS! On Monday, December 5^th,Pat will announce ONE LUCKY WINNER witha GRAND PRIZE with a bundle ofprizes from all of the participating companies.

In order to win you will needto comment on my blog - make sure to leave your email address. Every day that you enter, you are eligible for that day's prize, plus you get an entry for the grand prize for every comment on my blog you submit (up to one per person, per day) -- that is five opportunities to win the grand prize basket! (In other words, your comment today will make you eligible for the $25.00 Classy Cards 'n Such Gift Certificate, plus you will have one entry for the Grand Prize). And the grand prize includes... A Technique Junkie Newsletter Subscriber for Life prize!

If you havebeen following along already you should have come from Elisa Kammerdiener 's blog. If you are only starting here, please head backto the Technique Junkie Blog and go from there. You won't want to miss any stops along the way!
Here is what I created for the hop today:

I used the Freestanding Pop-up Tutorial from the 3D and Fancy Folds CD to create this cute card. The best thing about this? It folds FLAT for mailing! and it was sooo easy to make -- I had great directions!

I used Stampavie stamps from Classy Cards 'n Such for both the main image and the saying. They are actually one stamp -- I deconstructed it to use the different parts where I wanted them on my card.

If I was your first stop, I urge you to go to the TJ Design Team blog to go through the whole hop -- you will really enjoy the projects and inspiration! It also gives you a chance to see some of the projects from the 3D CD as made by different designers.

Here is the whole list of hoppers for today:

The Technique Junkie Newsletter Blog

Classy Cards 'n Such Blog

Okay, so start with the Design Teams blog and work your way back. Remember to leave comments for the designers, and especially here -- and good luck!

3D Gift Card Box - It is so cool!

2011-11-16T13:34:00.001-05:00

I know I am not supposed to have favorites (it is like picking your favorite child), but in this case, I do. This 3D Gift Card Box is my favorite (okay, ONE of my favorites) from the newest TJ CD: 3D and Fun Folds. The Cd has 70 tutorials on it, all in pdf format, step-by-step with pictures for each step -- and multiple finished-piece examples. And...it is only $17.95 (US/Canada - $19.95 for Overseas). Go to the link above to see all of the tutorials on the CD.

The cool thing about this particular project is that it is a box - until the lid is removed. Then it is this really cool 3-D gift card holder. Even my 16 year-old son is impressed with this one!

And the directions for this are remarkably easy - even the most folding-impaired can follow the directions. Try the CD -- you will not be disappointed!

The CD is here! Have you ordered yours yet?

2011-10-29T10:33:00.003-04:00

The 3D and Fun Folds CD is here! All pre-ordered CDs were mailed today -- have you ordered yours yet? 70 Tutorials for $17.95 (US and Canada, $19.95 for overseas). You can't beat that price!!

The Card Drawer Box shown above is one of the 70 tutorials from the CD. I also happen to be teaching this tutorial at the Greater New York Art Stamp Show in Queens next weekend -- if you are in NY, NJ, or CT, come and sign up for the class! If you can't make it to the class, don't worry - there are step by step directions, with pictures for each step, for this project on the CD.

And that is only ONE of SEVENTY. A complete listing of all the tutorials is HERE -- you can order the CD there, too.

Come fold with us!

Top Note Die Box

2011-10-24T14:53:00.001-04:00

Another one of the 70 tutorials from the new 3D and Fun Folds CD -- the Top Note Die Box. I love this little box! You can order your CD HERE -- it ships next week! 70 tutorials for $17.95 -- can you beat that?

Stamps: Stampin' Up! Frostwood Lodge DSP and Christmas Lodge Stamps

SQSC9: Pick your Poison

2011-10-19T02:48:00.000-04:00

Spooky scary Halloween....skeletons and rats and brains oh my! I love this time of year -- remembering how happy my kids were, how excited, brings back warm and happy memories for me. So today, for the Stamping Queens Sketch Challenge #9, I bring you my spooky skeleton to wish you a Happy Halloween season.

I used the Curled Corners Technique (February 2011 issue) and the Torn Frames (December 2008 issue) from the Technique Junkie Newsletter on my card. After all, it just wouldn't be one of my cards if it didn't have a technique on it, would it?

Make sure you visit the Stampin' Queens Sketch Challenge Blog to see the other creations from the other designers -- so much variety and fun! And don't forget, you can play along, too!

Here is the original sketch:

While I deviated a little, the basics are still there...and I love how this turned out. I had to twist the skeleton's arm a bit to convince him to hold up the sign, but the dead aren't phased by things like that!

Stamps: Stampin' Up!; Poison Stamp set and Pick Your Poison Designer Paper, Black Paper, Pumpkin Pie Paper, Vellum, Buttons, White Craft Ink, Black Ink, Waffle Paper

Fantasy Box - You can do it too!

2011-10-17T11:31:00.001-04:00

I have been seeing these fantasy boxes for a while now and I never thought I could make one. Well, guess what? I did -- and you can too! This box is one of the 70 -- yes SEVENTY -- projects that are on the new 3D and Fun Folds CD being released the week of October 31st. Our CD contains all 70 techniques in Step-by-Step, pictorial format -- so you can follow along with the pictures when you are creating. They are formatted as pdfs, too, so you can print them out as you need them.

And the CD is only $17.95 (for US/Canada -- overseas it is $19.95). It amazes me that I see people offering 15 projects for much more than that -- you are getting SEVENTY projects on one CD! You can click on the link above to see a list of what is on the CD, too.

If you have never seen a TJ CD, here is a real example from the Fancy Folds and Motion CD (the format is the same, but ALL of the techniques are different!) of the Vertical Accordion Card:

http://techniquejunkies.com/Vertical_Accordion_Card.pdf

So what are you waiting for? Place your order today -- you can make this box, too -- I promise!

This Fantasy Box uses Stampin' Up!'s Flirtatious Specialty Paper, Hello Doily Stamp, Delicate Doilies Stamp set, Daffodil Cardstock, SU!'s lace ribbon, Filigree Brad.

SQSC and LNS together as one...

2011-10-12T01:30:00.000-04:00

The Sketch for this weeks Stamping Queens Sketch Challenge was deceptively easy:

In reality, I struggled! How to incorporate such simple elements and still keep my card balanced....and still use my beloved techniques?

I decided to use the color theme from this week's LNS Challenge: Use Night of Navy, River Rock and Cajun Craze for the card. This makes me happy because my beloved Well Worn Paper using some of those colors, too. I decided to use the Glassy Embossing Technique (in the February 2010 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter, and on the Emboss or Die CD) on one of the designer papers, and use that as my base. I layered on the sentiment, papers and ribbon and didn't move the elements around too much:

Make sure to stop by the Stamping Queens blog to see the other creations this week!

All materials Stampin' Up!:

Stamps: Daring Adventure

Ink: Night of Navy, VersaMark

Paper: Well Worn DSP, Night of Navy, River Rock, Cajun Craze

Other: Navy Brads, Denim Ribbon, Detail Clear Embossing Powder, Lattice Emb. Folder

Bloggers Challenge - Fall

2011-10-11T17:58:00.000-04:00

I guess it is no longer Friday -- and I missed Blogger's Challenge a little -- but I can still play along! I have these wonderful stamps from Mark's Finest Papers, after all, and I just couldn't resist using them, since the theme was Falling for You.

My main image uses the Out of the Box Nesties Technique from the Emboss or Die CD, layered using the Stacked Nesties Technique from the October 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. I just love this technique! It is so grand and it really sets off the main image. Try it!

All of the stamps and paper used on this card are from Mark's Finest Papers. I love the fox peeking out -- just so sweet!. Don't forget that you can get 15% off anything in the MFP store, too, by using the code WEEKENDER. You will love all the new fall and winter sets!

You can still join in, too -- at least until Thursday -- by entering your Falling for You themed card. Play along!

SCSQ6: More Trendy Trees

2011-09-28T07:00:00.000-04:00

I loved these trees so much yesterday that I made more for today! It is Wednesday and time for the Stampin' Queen's Sketch Challenge. Here is the sketch we were following this week:

I have to admit, I struggled with this one a bit, Eventually I did settle on my card, and I

think it's cute!I hope you like it too. Make sure to check out the Stampin' Queens Sketch Challenge blog to see what the other ladies have made -- they are very talented!

My card uses 2 Technique Junkie Techniques: Curled Corners and Torn Frames. Enjoy!

LNS 140 - Fall s in the air

2011-09-27T19:12:00.000-04:00

I am so woefully behind -- but I am happy to serve out my last week as a guest designer on the SU LNS group as a Guest Designer. This week's theme is "Fall is in the Air" - and I rediscovered this cute set from Stampin' Up Called Trendy Trees.

I was out today and noticed that they trees are just starting to change color...as much as I love fall in Connecticut, I am a little sad about the lush summer green going away.

For this card, I used Pumpkin, Daffodil, Cherry Cobbler and Espresso papers with a vanilla base. I also used the Word Window Punch for the "sunken greeting."

SQSC#5 Young Vermilion

2011-09-21T14:30:00.001-04:00

Bird stamps just, well, sing to me. This one is particularly pretty, mainly because of all of the many ways I imagine coloring her in my head. I couldn't wait to use this for today's Stampin' Queens Sketch Challenge card! I used the Watered Watercolor Pencils Technique from December 2003 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. I recently rediscovered the technique and it is my new favorite again! Look at that coloring -- so pretty and so intense.

Here is the sketch we were working from:

I think I was pretty close to the original, right? Why don't you stop by the Stampin' Queens blog and play along with us?

Have a great day!

All stamps, paper, ink and supplies from Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Young Vermilion, In Wilderness, Wonderfully Worn

Ink: Early Espresso, Basic Black, Cajun Craze

Paper: Well Worn DSP, Cajun Craze, Sahara Sand, Early Espresso

Other: Seam binding ribbon, Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Black Embossing Powder, Stampin' Up! Watercolor Pencils

LNS 139: Ohh Baby Baby!

2011-09-19T00:18:00.001-04:00

I NEVER have a baby card ready when I need it. Ever. Nothing could have made me happier than this LNS Challenge! LNS 139 is Ohh Baby Baby! so I am happy to have made this for my stash (now I just hae to make one for a boy LOL).

I used the Out of the Box Nesties Technique from the Technique Junkie CD: Emboss or Die for my main image. I took my color inspiration from the Cheerful Treat DSP. Don't those dots work perfect with the balloon the elephant is holding? I colored the main piece with chalks, and added some pen work for whimsy. I also popped up a couple of the layers in back and front, they are a little hard to see from the photo, but fun to look at!

I hope you like it, and will play along!

All products used for this project are from Stampin' Up!:

Stamps: Elebration, Petite Pairs

Ink: Craft Black, Melon mambo

Paper: Cheerful Treats DSP, Melon Mambo, Blushing Bride, Whisper White

Other: Lucky Limeade Marker, Brads, Large Oval Punch, 3" circle die, 3-1/2" die

BC230 Who's got the Button?

2011-09-16T07:16:00.000-04:00

A Button Challenge from Blogger's Challenge! I like to be challenged, but sometimes I love the easy ones, too. Buttons are easy!

Today's card uses stamps and paper from Mark's Finest Papers (colored with Copic Markers) over a Texture Duet Background (October 2010 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter). I love these pumpkin stamps -- so easy to color, and just the perfect size (don't forget to use the code TJFALL15 for 15% off your order, too!).

Make sure to visit the other Blogger's Challenge designers, then add your own card to the list below. Play along with us this week! Certainly you must have some buttons in your stash...

Try that Technique: Mulberry Magic

2011-09-15T08:09:00.001-04:00

It has been a few weeks since I have participated in the Thursday Try That Technique feature from the TJ Design Team Blog, so I am very happy to be playing along today. Today's technique is Mulberry Magic from the February 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter.

My card uses stamps from I Brake for Stamps (remember, there is a TJ discount on my blog sidebar). I just love the way this technique looks in person -- so beautiful and rich.

Play along with us! Post your art to the TJ egroup. You might just end up on the group's home page!

SQSC4: Back to Back Elegance

2011-09-14T00:43:00.001-04:00

I am thrilled to announce that I am now a Designer for the Stampin' Queens Sketch Challenge!
The challenge is every Wednesday and the sketches are divine. I hope you will stop by here each week, then scoot on over to the Challenge Blog to see how the other designers interpreted the sketch. I am amazed by the creativity of the artists in this group. Make sure to play along, too!

This is the sketch we were working from this week:

As you can see, I changed my elements a little bit -- my layers are in a different order and the embellishment on the top layer (a butterfly in the sketch above) was moved to the upper left. Still, it is in the same spirit!

The background of my card uses the Back-To-Back Technique from the August 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter, and the butterflies use the Cuttlebug Highlights Technique. All stamps and materials from Stampin' Up!:

Stamps: Established Elegance,French Filigree and Wonderfully Worn

Paper: Blushing Bride, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White

Ink: Blushing Bride, Riding Hood Red, Sahara Sand, Craft White

Other: Scallop Punch, Beautiful Wings Embosslits die, Square Lattice embossing folder, Sahara Sand Marker.

Okay, now it is your turn! Go to the Stampin' Queens Challenge Blog and add YOUR creation!

LNS 138: In-Colors

2011-09-12T15:34:00.000-04:00

Today's card is for the LNS 138 Challenge: to use two of Stampin' Up!'s In-colors on your creation. My card uses Pool Party and Lucky Limeade together -- I just love this combination of Blue and Green. The stamps I used for the card are all hostess sets: Happiest Birthday Wishes, Perfect Words and Precious Butterflies.

After I made the card, I sprayed it with some homemade glimmer spray -- Alcohol and a few drops of shimmer paint. It is sparkly in real life! Hope you can play along this week.

Guest Designing -- and remembering the fallen

2011-09-06T11:33:00.001-04:00

I am thrilled to have been chosen as a Guest Designer for Stampin Up LNS for the month of September. It is such an honor for me! Each week the group is presented with a themed challenge. This is the first challenge for September: Remembering 9/11.

Living close to New York, we know many families affected by 9/11; it is such a sad day in our history. It is up to us to remember those who have fallen and to celebrate the fallen heroes. I hope my card honors their memories appropriately.

My card uses Stampin' Up!'s Medallion stamp colored using the Non-Stick Color Technique from the June 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. The sentiment stamp is from the Blessings from Heaven set.

LNS 136: Tear Into it!

2011-09-03T08:51:00.000-04:00

I love this little goose from the Stampin's Up! Cherish Friendship set, and I have played with coloring him a few different ways. This card uses the Pencil over Marker Technique from the February 2005 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter (that is what I love about classic techniques -- they never really expire!). The LNS challenge this week was "Tear into it", so I used the Torn Frames Technique (December 2008 issue of the TJNL) on one side only. The background uses Burnished Resist.

Have a great weekend!

Stamps: Stampin' Up! Cherish Friendship, Pocket Silhouettes

Blogger's Challenge: I've got the blues

2011-09-02T09:24:00.001-04:00

It's Friday, I finally have power, and life is good! I made this card for Blogger's Challenge this week. I actually stamped this by the light of batteries, so be kind about the color combo! Our challenge this week was Monochromatic Blues. I took that a step farther -- and made a card for someone who HAS the blues!

My card uses the Out of the Box Technique from the October 2004 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter (yes, that was 7 years ago! How time flies!). All of the stamps are from Stampin' Up! (listed below). Want to play along? Simply follow the links below to play along (you might want to look at Lisa Somerville's Blog FIRST to read some qualifications (not much, but there are a few rules). Can't wait to see what you do!

Stamps: Creative Elements, Petite Pairs, Artistic Etchings
Colors: Not quite Navy, Bashful Blue, Whisper White
Other: Bashful Blue Satin Ribbon, Not quite Navy Marker, Modern Label Punch, Elegant Lines Embossing Folder

Back to Back Bird Watching

2011-08-26T12:40:00.000-04:00

Home sweet home! Although we had a good trip (most of it was good -- some of it wasn't so great), it is always great to be home. Just in time for Hurricane Irene! I have a ton to do today, but wanted to pop into blogland to share a bit with you before I jump into my emails with both feet.

This card uses the Back-to-Back Technique (from the August 2011 Technique Junkie Newsletter) for the background, with the main panel highlighted with a Torn Frame (December 2008 TJNL). All of the stamps are from Stampin' Up!. This was a perfect card for LNS Challenge 135, too, since I adore the stamps, the buttons, the clips, the lattice Embossing folder...you get the idea!!

I love this set of stamps. Birds always remind me of my mother -- she was a bird-watcher, and got excited every time she would see something vaguely exotic. It makes me smile just to make bird cards. I think I have a bit of her in me -- I spent a considerable amount of time this week with binoculars glued to my face, looking out of over the spectacular salt marsh on the Delegal River in Savannah from my Mother-in-Law's floor to ceiling windows. And yes, I saw ALOT of birds and got just as excited as my mom used to!

Hope you all stay safe from Nature's fury this weekend!

2011-08-16T00:19:00.000-04:00

As you read this, I am off to take my oldest son to college. It is a bittersweet time for me. I am thrilled that my son is starting a new chapter into adulthood, but melancholy about the big hole that he leaves in my heart because of his impending absence.

Millions of moms get over this every summer. I will too.

This card is dedicated to him. I used the Glassy Embossing Technique (on the Emboss or Die CD) on the Well Worn Designer Paper and added other distressing touches to finish off the card.

In addition to the college orientation and drop-off, we are visiting my dad and dh's parents while we are south-bound. I will have internet access on and off for the week and may check in from time to time. Any orders placed between now and August 25th will be processed upon my return.

Stamps: Stampin' Up! Daring Adventure; Well Worn Background

Paper: Well Worn DP

Stuck on a color combination...

2011-08-15T08:03:00.005-04:00

Today I have TWO cards to share. I am in love with a color combination and I need to get these out of my system so I can move on! The colors are Rich Razzleberry and Crumb Cake -- I think they are fabulous together! The card above uses the combo on a Faux Tile Card from the June/July issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. I used the Elements of Style Stamp set with my other new love - Seam Binding Ribbon (have you tried it? SOOOO great -- thank you, Nancy Hill, for showing me it! I am obsessed!).

After I made that card, I decided I needed more of the combo, so I made this card, that uses the Vanilla Double Technique from the October 2005 issue of the TJ Newsletter:

Yup, still love the combination. Maybe I will find another one to take control of my creative muse soon...

Stamps used:

Faux Tile Card: Stampin' Up! Elements of Style

Vanilla Double Card: Stampin' Up! Medallion, French Filigree, My Friend

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Cuttlebug Highlights

2011-08-14T08:13:00.000-04:00

This card was actually the first card I made with SU's Field Flowers set. I love the color combination of purples and greens, and I think it works here. I used the Cuttlebug Highlights Technique (October 2008 Technique Junkie Newsletter) on the Butterflies. The top butterfly is a little shadowed, but he is blissfully highlighted also!

Hope you have having a great weekend!

Inspired Sunflower

2011-08-13T08:18:00.002-04:00

I love a brilliant idea. When Holly Brown brought me the Distressed Fuzz Technique (August 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter) used on the card above, I was very excited! After all, Flower Soft can be pricey -- and who doesn't love custom colors made from an item that EVERY stamper has in their Stash? GREAT idea, Holly.

My Sunflower was colored with Smooch inks to give it an ethereal glow. I also used some gorgeous shimmery paper from Paper Temptress for the card base and for the yellow cardstock portions. I wish you could see how shimmery this is IRL!

Have a great weekend.

Back to School Blogger's Challenge

2011-08-12T09:02:00.000-04:00

This Week's Blogger's Challenge was to create a Back-to-School type of card. I really struggled with this -- in my stash of thousands of stamps, I have only a few school-related items.This forced me to think outside the box -- but I am pleased with the results.

The card here uses Club Scrap stamps on the front of the file folder using the Vellum Sentiments Technique from the August 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. I really wanted a collaged look for the background,so I used a combination of stickers, ribbons, transparencies and stamps to get the look I wanted. I really had to dig deep into my scrapbooking stash with this challenge to find just the right accents!

I thought it would be fun to add a sentiment inside the little file folder, here:

Feel free to play along in the challenge this week by adding your entry to the links below. And make sure that you take a peek through the other challenge entries -- they are always great!

Colorful Silhouettes in Blue LNS 133

2011-08-11T10:41:00.000-04:00

Today's card uses the Colorful Silhouettes Technique from the August 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. I made this card for LNS challenge 133 (see below). Although it might look a little like it, this is NOT a resist technique :)

One thing I did a little different for this card was to "double stamp" the French Filigree background (the white part). I love the stamp but I wanted a bolder look, so I inked the stamp, put it face-up on my work surface, smooshed the paper on top, then lifted the paper a little and moved it over ever-so-slightly before smooshing again to create a bolder look. It came out exactly as I wanted it!

After I made this, I realized that I did EXACTLY the same ribbon treatment on this as I did the Framed Nesties Card from yesterday...oops! I had actually created the pink card weeks ago...so it wasn't top of mind (or maybe it was!). Oh well, I still love the way this turned out!

Note: The LNS challenge comes from an egroup called Stampin' Up LNS Stampers (Late Night Stampers). I think it is open to all Stampin' Up! stamp lovers...
All stamps Stampin' Up!: Fabulous Florets, Trendy Trees (Sentiment), French Filigree. Elegant Lines Embossing Folder. Marina Mist, Bashful Blue, Black, White Inks and paper.

Kindness Matters Nestie Window - Special offer!

2011-08-10T13:34:00.000-04:00

I really don't work with PINK enough! This card uses the Stampin' Up! Kindness Matters stamp set with the Framed Nesties Window Technique from the August 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. What I love about this technique is the ability to use oval/circle/square Nesties, punches, cutters, etc to achieve the same effect.

If you are not a Newsletter subscriber yet, check this out! You can subscribe to the Newsletter from now through the end of 2012 for only $22.00 (Canadian: $26.00, Overseas: $30.00) -- that is a $5.00 savings from the regular price!! Your subscription will start immediately with this issue so you can view this technique, plus the other 14 techniques in this issue with one password. Want to see more? You can pre-order CD9 (covers the issues from 10-10 through 8-11) too, for just $14.95 ($16.95 overseas) more -- giving you access to 100 MORE techniques. Click HERE to get started - both options are available through that link.

Already a subscriber? Renewal Specials and CD orders can be found HERE.

Field flowers Faux Tiles

2011-08-09T10:52:00.000-04:00

I'm back from vacation, got through thousands of emails yesterday, and I am ready to stamp! Just a few more details to take care of this morning, and then I can get creative. I can't wait!

This card was made before I went on vacation - in fact, I made it almost a month ago with my friend Nancy Hill. I was just playing around with the technique and ended up showing a few fine ladies how to do it. It uses the Faux Tiles Technique from the June/July 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. The stamps are from the Field Flowers set from Stampin' Up!. Making this card took patience -- not because of the technique, because that is easy -- but because of the use of the stamp positioner on all of the flowers!

Happy stamping,

Pastel Pencil Pink

2011-08-02T00:13:00.002-04:00

I love this Graphic 45 paper...but it is a little dull. I spiced it up a bit using the Pastel Chalk Pencil Blending Technique from the June 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. What do you think? Do you like the "enhanced" papers?

White on White

2011-07-29T09:44:00.001-04:00

White on white sounds so easy, doesn't it? It can be challenging to make something that has enough zing power so all of the white elements work together. Thank goodness for embossing machines!

Today's card also serves two purposes. First, it is for the Blogger's Challenge, in which we were challenged to use Embossing this week. The LNS 131 Challenge this week was to make a white-on-white card. My card serves two masters! A tutorial on White-on-White can be found on the Emboss or Die CD.

To make this card, I used Stampin' Up's Blossom Petals punch on a sheet I had embossed with the Vintage Wallpaper embossing folder. I punched the petals and arranged the flower on a piece I had embossed using the with the Designer Textured Frames embossing folder (this is a hidden gem in the new catalog!). I used the Blessings from Heaven stamp set for the greeting. The flowers were colored with White Smooch ink -- and they are heavenly in person. Oh -- I added the punch on the bottom, too -- thought it needed a final touch for balance.

I had a really hard time getting a good photo of this card -- it is so pretty in person, and nothing I did seemed to capture that. I hope you get the idea!

You can join in the Blogger's Challenge below -- just follow the links. Have a great weekend!

Sneak Peek with the Tool Shed

2011-07-28T00:17:00.001-04:00

August is upon us and I am thrilled to give you a sneak peek into the August issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter . This card uses the Back-to-Back technique from the soon-to-be-released August issue.

To spice things up a bit with this card, I used the Deconstructed Collage Technique (December 2010 issue) on the tools to give it depth, too. I love this Stampin' Up! Background stamp -- in fact, I love all 4 of the stamps I used on this card. Look closely for hints about the Technique! Here is a side view:

You are gonna LOVE this issue!

Burnished Doily

2011-07-27T17:14:00.000-04:00

This Emboss Resist card (*see note below about this technique) was inspired by a card made by my friend Nancy Hill. Nancy's card (Look at it HERE) uses the SU Medallion stamp -- because Nancy HATES doilies.When stamping with her, I took the position of advocate for the Hello Doily stamp set... This card was the result of me trying to convince Nancy that the doily does have redeeming qualities (it is not just for Grannie's armrest anymore!). Nancy ALMOST likes this card; in her words "I would really like that if only it didn't have the doily on it..." Our aesthetic disagreement will most likely continue...

Nancy lives in California. I live in Connecticut. Nancy comes here for 6 weeks every summer. she looked me up 3 years ago -- and every year since, we have come to appreciate each other more and more. It is rare to find beautiful people in this world; Nancy is one of them. I am proud to call her my friend.

Plus...she makes me laugh. That alone is priceless!!

*About the Emboss Resist Technique: I have a tutorial already done showing how to use it. I had planned on posting it on my blog here -- but have not posted it because I think most people know how to do this. If you would like to see this tutorial posted, please leave me a comment and I will get it online within the week :)

More Daring Adventure

2011-07-26T07:24:00.000-04:00

With my recent SU purchase (um, it was rather significant), I decided that I would not rest until I had used each stamp set at least THREE times...which is why I seem to be posting the same stamp sets every day LOL! This is the second card that I made from the Daring Adventure set.

My card uses the Wisped Frames Technique from the February 2010 of the Technique Junkie Newsletter on the main image. I also used the Curled Corner Technique from the February 2011 issue of the Newsletter. The background papers I used for matting uses the Well Worn Designer Paper pack.

I hope you are not bored from me posting from the same sets...because there are more to come!

Cherish Glitter Roll

2011-07-25T08:53:00.001-04:00

I love this little bowl of cherries. It is so sweet! The stamp is from the Cherish Friendship set from Stampin' Up. I colored it with pastels and a blender pen.The hanging tag with the word "enjoy" is from the You're a Gem Set.

To create the Lace Punch border behind the front panel, I used the Glitter Roll Technique from the June 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. I wish you could see the pretty glittery shimmer it has IRL! All of that was layered on a Herringbone embossed background before being matted.

Enjoy your day!

Father's Day...a little late

2011-07-24T08:48:00.000-04:00

I started a post a few weeks ago (um, maybe it was a month ago- yikes!) with this Father's Day card that I sent to my dad. Somehow it got lost in the shuffle! I hope it will inspire you for what looks like, rather than the sentiment itself.

The card uses the Non-Stick Color Technique from the June 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. The cool fishing line stamp is from I Brake for Stamps (make sure to look on the sidebar to see the discount from IB4S when you order!!).

Happy Father's Day (better late than never, right?

Herringbone Kittens

2011-07-23T09:31:00.012-04:00

Yes, you read that right. Kittens. If you know me, you know that I am not a cat fan (Dogs Rule!). I was in a swap a couple of months ago and I had made this card to represent the letter K. If you look closely you can see that the brads letters spelling "Kittens" on them.

The card uses the Herringbone Technique from the December 2009 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. The stamps are from Rare Image Rubber Stamps and are available through I Brake for Stamps. The brads with the letters have been in my stash for at least 6 - 7 years...I have no clue who made them!

The designer paper is from Basic Grey and all the solid Paper is from Paper Temptress. Enjoy your Saturday!

Blogger's Challenge - Summertime

2011-07-22T09:39:00.001-04:00

Sloppy, Juicy Lollipops. Summertime fare, right? Well, today's Blogger's Challenge was to create a card representing summer. These lollipops, paired with the bright Stampin' Up paper (long since retired) just screamed summer to me.

The Pink Paislee stamps used here were layered on pieces using the Faux Stitching Technique from the April 2006 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. I covered each of the lollys with a coating of crystal effects to make them look more realistic. The only thing missing is the color they leave on your tongue when you lick them!!

You can join in the Summertime Blogger's Challenge, too! Simply make your card and post it using the links below. Have fun!

Daring Adventure - Torn Frames

2011-07-21T08:35:00.000-04:00

I was in heaven when I first saw the Daring Adventure set from Stampin' Up!. As the mother of 2 teenage boys, I always find it difficult to stamp cards for them that they think will be cool. This set definitely has that cool factor!

My card uses the Daring Adventure set with SU's Well Worn Paper pack, and Vintage Brads. The front panel has a Torn Frame from the December 2008 Technique Junkie Newsletter.

I think I captured that teenage-boy X factor. What do you think?

Doily Delight

2011-07-19T11:27:00.000-04:00

Warning! This card does not use a technique from the newsletter...but I hope you will appreciate it in any case! The closest it comes is the Deconstructed Collage Technique from the December 2010 issue of the TJ Newsletter....so let's say it is that :)

This Doily from Stampin' Up! just begged to be deconstructed and popped. I added SU's lace punch to the top, too, and used one of the new colors (Wisteria) which is gorgeous with the Concord Crush cardstock. If you like this card as is, believe me, it is 100 times prettier in person! Here is a side view:

I was fortunate to stamp with some great stampers last week -- my dear friend Nancy Hill -- who has an infectious laugh and a wicked sense of humor -- and Rhonda Sands, who I have known online but just had the great fortune to meet. The two of them, along with their friends Lois and Donna, liked this card so much that they each made one before we left. Oh, I should amend that -- Nancy did NOT make one. She HATES doilies. She did admit, though, that she almost likes this card -- if only it didn't have the doily on it! (You might want to click on Nancy's name to read about the first day we spent together stamping - she is a rascal!)

Have a great day, and take some time to laugh today!

Sunflower Vintage Art

2011-07-18T14:29:00.000-04:00

My Word! Where has the month gone? I have not posted for almost three weeks. Life has been crazy-busy for me personally, so things just fell off my plate. I didn't stamp for three weeks straight -- and after I convinced myself that I still remembered HOW, I went on a stamping jag...one that is not over by any means!

Stampin' Up! just came out with a new catalog (although I am certain that most of you know that!) and I "pigged out" on buying SU stamp sets. This one, Sunflower, caught my eye right away because of it's vintage feel. I thought it was perfect to pair up with the Vintage Art Technique from the June 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. I hope you like it!

Strap in, my blogging friends...I have much to share with you over the next few weeks!

Glimmer Mist Masking -- Try that Technique

2011-06-30T12:20:00.000-04:00

As a scrapbooker, I am always looking for ways to marry all of my paper crafting tools into my layouts. That is one of the reasons that Jane Bosi and I produced the Stampbooking CD -- we wanted a perfect marriage of easy-to-do techniques that use Rubber Stamps on our layouts. The Glimmer Masking Tutorial -- the Try That Technique Challenge Technique -- does just that. After you are done here, you should go take a look at what Nancy Dawson and Jane Bosi have done with the technique. Just beautiful results.

Today's layout shows the technique used as a background for my page. The glimmered butterfly outlines were just the right simple touch for my page. Now it is your turn! Try that Technique!

The Stampbooking CD is $17.95 and contains 75 tutorials in pdf format. Order yours today!

The Annual CD Sale Starts Today!!

2011-06-15T16:05:00.000-04:00

All of the Technique Junkie Newsletter annual CDs - CD1 through CD8 - are on sale for $10.00 plus shipping from now through June 30th* (the CD sales does NOT include the TJ Specialty CDs. Only CDs 1 - 8 qualify for this offer).

Each Technique Junkie CD covers a year worth of issues. They are in pdf format, so they are easily printed; and each Cd has between 75 and 100 tutorials on it. Here is a listing of what is on each CD: http://techniquejunkies.com/cd-list.pdf

You can order one, two or all 8 CDs - or any combination therein. Simply email me with which CDs you would like and I will send you an invoice with the proper postage amount included. In the US, postage starts at $1.39 for one CD and maxes out at $4.95; In Canada, it ranges from $1.49 to $11.95; and overseas, postage ranges from $2.08 to $16.95.

*The three TJ specialty Cds (Emboss or Die, Fancy Folds and Motion and Stampbooking) are not included in this sale.

Stampbooking Blog Hop!

2011-06-13T08:55:00.000-04:00

It's Jane Bosi's birthday, and to celebrate, we are having a blog hop! Happy Birthday, Jane! Our hop is all about the techniques on the New Stampbooking CD - Jane was the co-creator of the CD. If you came here from Holly Brown's blog, you are on the right track; if not, I suggest you start at the TJ Design Team's Blog to view the whole hop.

So today, I actually have TWO pages to share -- I could not pick just one, and virtually every page I have scrapbooked the past three months have used the Stampbooking Techniques. The first page, above, uses the Ribbon Titles Technique. I chose this quick and easy page to show the the techniques can enhance the simplest of pages! Stamps: Close to My Heart, Hampton Arts.

My second page, below, uses the Foiled Embellishments technique:

Again, a great example of how to enhance your pictures using your stamps! Stamps: Stampin' Up!, Close To My Heart, PSX.

You now have one more blog to visit -- the birthday girl's blog! Make sure to leave a comment on Jane's blog to be eligible to win the Stampbooking CD. If you want to go ahead and purchase one HERE, and then you win the hop, I will refund your money!

Okay now, off you go to JANE'S BLOG...

Blogger's Challenge: Sketch

2011-06-10T08:10:00.000-04:00

It's ironic. I had two sketch challenges this week, and they were close enough to each other so that I could use the same card! It is Blogger's Challenge Friday, though, so I am sharing it here today under that auspice!

This card uses the Copic Texturizing Technique from the April 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. The image is a cute Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps Digi. The Texturizing is a bit hard to see in the photo, but it is there! I love this cute Digi. And don't forget to use TJNRocks to receive 10% off your order at Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps!

Here is the Blogger's Challenge sketch:

You can play along, too. Simply add the link below to your blog post using the sketch to play. Enjoy your weekend!

Hip to be Square

2011-06-09T09:59:00.000-04:00

Can you read that and not have the Huey Lewis and the News Song start playing in your head? I can't!

In any case, this card is an example of the Hip to Be Square technique from the Technique Junkie Newsletter Fancy Folds and Motion CD. The CD is still available here.

I made this version just slightly smaller than the technique calls for. All of the stamps and the Cardstock used here are from Mark's Finest Papers (When you shop there, make sure to use the promo code TJJuly15 for your discount, too!).

Here is the card, opened:

Enjoy your day!

Pastel Pecil Blending Owl

2011-06-02T11:13:00.000-04:00

I love my Pastel Chalk Pencils. I just love them. They blend so beautifully and have gorgeous, rich, intense color. My first experience with using them was when I bought a set of 10 on sale -- I think I paid $4.00 for them a few years ago -- and I was hooked. I have since purchased a huge set to expand my color palette. If you buy nothing else, think about buying them for coloring skin tone -- they are sublime! They are in my top three favorites of all of my coloring tools. The June issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter has a tutorial for you on how to blend with them, too.

The cute owl above was colored with my Pastel Chalk Pencils. It is a digi from Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps (when you order, use tjnrocks for 10% off!). I love this guy, and his matching saying. The background paper is Basic Grey, but the copper metallic and the other rich, lush papers are all from Paper Temptress.

Have a great day!

The CDs are here, June's issue and Blogger's Challenge!

2011-05-27T18:11:00.000-04:00

What to talk about first? I don't know which I more excited about! I went out for a few hours this afternoon, and the CD fairy delivered the first shipment of the Stampbooking CDs! I will work on stuffing the mailers, labeling, and applying postage this evening so that they are all winging their way to the folks who pre-ordered their copies. If you have not yet, you do order the Stampbooking: The Art of Using Rubber Stamps in your Scrapbooks HERE.

The June issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter was mailed yesterday, too, and the link to the issue is live. If you are a subscriber, you can access the online pages right now! Email me if you subscribe and need the password, or if you would LIKE to subscribe, do so HERE.

Finally, today is Blogger's Challenge Friday -- and it is about shimmer. My submission uses Glitter for my shimmer, and it is from a new technique from the June 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter called Glitter Roll. In addition, the LIVE, LOVE, LAUGH words are from an embossing folder that uses the Cuttlebug Highlights Technique (From the Technique Junkie Newsletter Emboss or Die CD). You can, of course, play along with us on the BC Shimmer Challenge by adding your artwork to the hop list. And make sure you look at what the other ladies are doing, too!

I hope you all have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend.

Faux Denim Cowgirl Giveway!

2011-05-26T18:17:00.002-04:00

This is the final week of sponsoring month of the Gingersnap Creations Blog. Our Cowboys and Cowgirls theme ends with the color theme of Denim, Dust and Rust -- and what better way to celebrate a fun month than to giveaway some terrific stamps?

I have this HUGE 8-1/2" x 11" Cowgirl Blues Rubber Stamp sheet from Oxford Impressions. I love this sheet and use mine over and over -- it is jam-packed with 27 cowgirl-themed stamps. And with Memorial Day this weekend, what is more American than Cowfolk? In any case, here is the stamp sheet:

And of course, the card comes with it...featuring the Faux Denim Technique from the December 2007 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. Make sure you visit the Gingersnap blog for more of the TJ Design Team artwork -- we had fun with this one!

Entering this giveaway is simple. Leave a comment for me on this blog post with your name and email address, and my handy-dandy random number generator will select a winner on Tuesday, May 31st. Anyone can enter! Good luck!

Congratulations to Becky Benson, the winner of this Stamp set and Card!

Stampbooking: Grungy Altered Titles

2011-05-25T17:52:00.000-04:00

This may be my favorite project on all of the CDs I have ever produced. These Grungy Altered Titles from new Technique Junkie Newsletter Stampbooking CD are so cool!

The CD contains this tutorial, plus 75 other techniques showing you the art of using Rubber Stamps in your Scrapbooks. It is $17.95 for US/Canadian Residents, and $19.95 for Overseas addresses. I just heard from the CD printer they are on their way here today...I will be mailing them the same day that Fed Ex Ground delivers them. Shouldn't your CD be among the first mailed? Order yours HERE.

Team Ian -- Stampbooking Page

2011-05-20T10:59:00.001-04:00

I just wanted to share another layout from the new Technique Junkie Newsletter Stampbooking CD. This is one of my favorite layouts-- doesn't he look happy just to be with his mom?

Okay -- the CDs will be shipping in about two weeks. In order to have yours on time, you need to order in the next 3 or 4 days. The Stampbooking Cd is for everyone who needs or wants inspiration for stamping in their scrapbooks. There are a whopping 75 Tutorials on this CD -- all in step-by-step pictorial fashion -- easy to print and take with you to crops. They make it easy for you, too -- they include a supply list and a couple of finished layouts so that you can see how the technique was interpreted by others. It is a bargain for only $17.95 (US and Canada. Overseas: $19.95). Click HERE to order yours today!

The complete listing of all of the techniques on the CD are on that page, too! Have a great weekend --

Scenic Stamping - Gingersnap Creations Challenge

2011-05-19T06:27:00.003-04:00

As you may know, the Technique Junkie Newsletter is the sponsor for the Gingersnap Creations Blog this month. Today's challenge was to make a card expressing Scenic Stamping. My interpretation of that is above. Of course, I had to morph my card -- I just thought it would look cool if I made it into a Aged Tile (April 2008 Technique Junkie Newsletter) card. Stamps: Cowboy: from the Embossing Arts line at I Brake for Stamps, Sentiment, Club Scrap.

Stop over the the Gingersnap Creations blog today to see what others have created!

2011-05-18T07:56:00.001-04:00

One of the greatest things about the new Stampbooking CD is the ability browse through it to find inspiration for your layouts, then to print out the tutorial (with examples) to take to my scrapping area. I love having these 75 step-by-step ideas at my disposal! The fun part for me in creating this CD was trying as many of the techniques as I could before CD release -- and even now I am still working through them with my current scrapbook projects.

This page was embellished with Flowers made from the Tie-Dye Chic Embellishment technique, one of the 18 Embellishment Tutorials you will find (out of the 75 Tutorials on the CD. Stamps from Judikins and Close To My Heart. I think they add the right splash of color to what could have been a monotone layout.

If you haven't ordered your CD yet, you can order yours here:

http://www.techniquejunkies.com/stampbooking-cd.html.

Painted Pastel Embossed Flower

2011-05-17T16:46:00.000-04:00

I recently acquired this gorgeous embossing folder from Stampin' Up! and it has quickly become one of my favorites. With this card I used the Pastel Painted Embossing Technique from the Technique Junkie Emboss or Die CD to color the embossed area. The stamp along the side is from I Brake for Stamps. The side view is here:

Have a great day!

Textured Paris

2011-05-10T06:56:00.000-04:00

I am a Junkie for Techniques -- and for anything Parisian. I love Eiffel Tower stamps -- I try not to buy them, but somehow I have several different sizes of them in my stash. This one is from Stampin' Up!. The card here uses the Faux Fresco Technique from the Emboss or Die CD for the background. It has great texture! I made this for a color challenge on a Yahoo group -- I needed to send this to my friend Rose, who is a unbelieveable stamp artist, so I was a bit nervous sending it to her. I hope she liked it!

All Stamps: Stampin' Up!

Have you heard about the Stampbooking CD?

2011-05-09T10:21:00.000-04:00

Have you heard? The Technique Junkie Newsletter is proud to announce the newest Specialty Technique CD: Stampbooking: the Art of Rubber Stamping in your Scrapbooks. This CD contains a whopping 75 tutorials, with several examples of stamped layouts for each technique. Each tutorial is in step-by-step, pictorial format, and is presented as pdfs, so you can print them and use them away from your computer!

The page above is an example of one of the techniques on the CD. It is, by far, the most inspiring CD we have ever created! The CDs will be mailed the first week of June. Pre-order yours today! Click HERE to be taken directly to the Stampbooking order page, and to see the list of tutorials on the CD. Come Stampbook with us!

Stamps used in layout above: Club Scrap, Stampin' Up!, Judikins.

Tribute to my mom...

2011-05-08T13:38:00.000-04:00

My mother passed away a little more almost exactly 5 1/2 years ago and I miss her greatly. She warmed the world with her smile... She was kind, and believed that you should never say anything bad about everyone. I miss her greatly, as do my five siblings and father; scores of cousins, aunts and uncles, along with her many friends. She brightened everyone's worlds.

So this card is for you, Mom. You helped me become the mother I am; I have often looked to your words for dealing with my own children. I miss you horribly.

Happy Mother's Day to everyone. And thank you to my children, who are so sweet and have worked so hard to make this a special day for me!

Announcing: The Stampbooking CD!

2011-05-07T06:01:00.000-04:00

Happy National Scrapbooking Day! Today is the perfect day to roll out the newest CD from the Technique Junkie Newsletter:

Stampbooking: The Art of using Rubber Stamps in your Scrapbooks

The Stampbooking CD features a whopping 75 tutorials for using rubber stamps to create titles, borders, frames, albums, embellishments, and so much more. The CD is a collaboration between TJ Publisher/Owner Patricia Huntoon and TJ Design Team Member Jane Bosi, both seasoned Stampbookers.

The 75 pdf tutorials on this CD are in step-by-step pictorial format -- easily printable to 8-1/2" x 11" paper.
The CD works on both PCs and Macs with Adobe Reader.

Each tutorial includes at least two examples of layouts using the technique. With over 150 Stampbooked pages on the CD, it is worth it just for the inspirational artwork!

The CD Tutorials are divided into six categories:- Title Techniques (13)
- Frame and Mat Techniques (11)
- Border Techniques (12)
- Embellishment Techniques (18)
- Background Tutorials (15)

- Albums, Journaling and other ideas (6)

All of the techniques included on the CD are listed on my site here: http://www.techniquejunkies.com/stampbooking-cd.html

You can pre-order this CD right from here, or go to THIS PAGE to order from my site.Please note that all of the CDs will be mailed the first week of June.

Pre-order your CD HERE!

The example show above uses the Fancy Frames Technique from the CD. Stamps: Stampin' Up!, Penny Black, Printworks.

Blogger's Challenge - Nature

2011-05-06T09:08:00.000-04:00

Today's Blogger's Challenge was easy -- NATURE. We simply had to create something -- open to our own interpretation -- that represents nature. My take is this card using the Pierced Vellum Technique from the April 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter, along with the out of the box technique from the October 2004 issue of the Newsletter. The gorgeous paper and the cute stamps are all from Mark's Finest Papers - and don't forget -- you can get 15% off anything at Mark's Finest Papers by using the code TJMAY15. Valid through 5-15-11.

Feel free to join in the challenge today - simply enter your artwork using the links below.

Thanks for stopping by --

Saddle up, partner!

2011-05-05T08:20:00.000-04:00

The month of May brings big things...first, the Technique Junkie Newsletter is sponsoring the Gingersnap Creations Cowgirls and Cowboys Challenge this month. If you have not frequented the blog, go take a look -- we are sponsoring prizes all month there! One of the items we are giving away is the Emboss or Die CD. The card above uses the Faux Tooled Leather Technique from the CD. Other techniques used include the Out of the Box technique from October 2004 and the Torn Frames Technique from December 2008. Stamps from Oxford Impressions.

The other Big Thing -- and this is a BIG THING -- is a new announcement I will be making on Saturday. Let's just say that making this announcement on National Scrapbooking Day is not a coincidence! You may have noticed that I have been a bit MIA for a while -- especially these past few months. You will know why on Saturday!

So Saddle up, partner! Take a look at the Gingersnap Creations blog (today features the work of some of the TJ designers!) and get ready for Saturday's big news.

Tye-Dyed Texture

2011-04-21T10:43:00.002-04:00

I am sorry I have been MIA for a while. I am working on a big project (a new Cd) and it is consuming all of my time. I will be announcing it May 7th, so stay tuned!

In the meantime, I thought I would post this little card for today. This card uses the Tye-Dyed Texture Technique from the Emboss or Die CD. I am sorry that the scan isn't great, but since I have already sent this to someone, it is the best I can do with it now.

Hope you're having a great week!

Blended Blotches Java

2011-04-19T09:49:00.001-04:00

I needed to make a card representing the letter J -- and all I could think about was Java. It was actually the only word that I could think of using the letter J! While I was making it, I was thinking of Hetty Sanders the whole time -- she loves her coffee (we are kindred souls in that regard). So this morning, while sipping my own coffee, I thought I would share this card.

The background uses the Blended Blotches Technique from the April 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. I layered that over a piece of Torn Paper Frames (December 2008 TJNL). That piece is layered on a piece of walnut colored paper that I LOVE. I made a wonderful discovery when I made this -- I used Paper Temptress Vintage Silver Lustre Paper and rubbed Distress Ink over it -- I have to tell you, this paper is exceptionally beautiful in real life. I will be coloring all my Lustre paper like that from now on!

Stamps: Club Scrap; Cardstock: Paper Temptress.

Crystal Beaded Flourishes

2011-04-13T11:59:00.000-04:00

This fun little card uses the Foam Stamping Technique from the April 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. Stamps by I Brake for Stamps. I don't know if you can see it, but the Boa around my party girl is enhanced with Flower Soft, and her jewels are stickles.

Last Day of March Madness - and the issue is live!

2011-03-31T10:53:00.000-04:00

Two huge announcements today! Today is the last day of the Technique Junkie Newsletter March Madness sale. Everything on my site is 10% off through the end of today.

Simply place your order and write "March Madness" in the comment section and I will refund 10% of your total order. If you can't find the comments section, don't worry -- I will automatically refund 10% of your order. It is a great time to renew, get a CD you have been thinking about, order back issues, or even subscribe! You can always send me an email with what you would like and I will send a discounted invoice to you, too.

The second announcement is that the April 2011 issue is LIVE. Subscribers can go HERE to the Subscriber's Only Page to log in to see the new issue. There are 15 fun tutorials waiting for you!

Today's card uses one of the tutorials: Graduated Color. Note how my Stampin' Up! surfer dude is colored -- you can learn the easy way to do this with the April issue. Need your password? No problem -- just email me and I will get it to you. Enjoy the new issue -- and make sure to take advantage of the March Madness sale, too!

Try that Technique: Double Bugging

2011-03-15T08:32:00.001-04:00

I know, I know. Try that Technique is on Thursday. I actually MADE this card on Thursday, but it took me until today to post it! sometimes life is like that.

This is an example of Double Bugging, the TJ Newsletter Technique for Try that Technique Thursday. I wanted to use two folders that were both very detailed since I usually gravitate toward the same two folders every other time I have done this technique. I love the way this turned out!

This technique is from the June 2009 issue of the TJ Newsletter, and can also be found on the Emboss or Die CD.

The image is from Inkadinkado.

Bird by the Inch

2011-03-12T10:30:00.001-05:00

This By the Inch Card (Technique from the December 2010 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter) was a challenge card for the letter "I". I love this technique- so easy and such cool results. Plus I get to use up pieces of technique from long ago! The base of the inchies was a piece of Pigment Scrunch (February 2009 TJ issue). Yes, a piece that I made two years ago! I don't know whether to be proud to have used it or ashamed that I kept it so long!

Stamps are newly acquired from Stampin' Up!. The gorgeous paper is from Paper Temptress -- it is duo toned Ice Blue and Grape, and just fabulous in person. Hope you enjoy your weekend!

Masculine Birthday

2011-03-11T08:09:00.001-05:00

How convenient for me that Blogger's Challenge has the birthday theme, since I just sent this card out for another masculine birthday challenge. My card uses the Faux Barnwood Technique from the February 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter as a background. The stamps are new-to-me from Stampin' Up!. I thought the little Tim Holtz Gears were perfect with the stamped image.

Hope you have a great day!

Paper Temptress Giveaway!

2011-03-10T15:50:00.000-05:00

I Love Great Paper. I think I need a button to wear on my chest with that saying! Paper Temptress, our giveaway sponsor this week, is all about GREAT paper. I tend to horde it, but Patricia is trying to break me from that habit! It is a habit one lucky winner can break, too -- with the $25.00 gift certificate to Paper Temptress as our giveaway prize.

The card above uses Paper Temptress papers. The fun thing about this card is that the beautiful paper used for the teal and the orchid are the same paper! One side is teal, on orchid -- "blue ice" and grape" double sided paper. It is just luxuriously beautiful!

I used the Tissued Color Technique (February 2011 issue of the TJ Newsletter) and layered that on the Grape side of the paper, then layered that on the teal piece that was done using the Cuttlebug Highlights Technique (Emboss or Die CD). All-in-all a simple card, but Paper Temptress paper just makes it pop! Stamps: Close To My Heart, Embossing Folder: Stampin' Up!

Go take a look at the gorgeous papers on Paper Temptress' site and dream about what you would order -- and don't forget -- use TJ15 to take 15% off of your order, too.

To win the card and the $25.00 gift certificate, simply leave a comment on this message on my blog and make sure to leave me your email address. I will have my random number generator select a lucky winner on Monday, March 14th, at 9am. Good luck!

Peach Power

2011-03-05T16:32:00.001-05:00

I recently received this adorable stamp from Susana's Custom Art and Card Design (from the Elisabeth Bell Collection) and thought it would make the cutest baby card. Blogger's Challenge this week is a color challenge- peach, white and green -- it was a perfect time to get it inky.

My baby is colored with Copic Markers, and was cut using the Out of the Box Nesties Technique (which can be found on the new Technique Junkies Emboss or Die CD. The background behind my flower baby uses the Pastel Painted Pigment Technique (also on the Emboss or Die CD).

I am normally not a pastel-type of person -- I tend to like earth tones and jewel tones the best -- but I really love this little cutie. I think it is the SCACD stamp! It is a little sad, though, I just can't get the colors to turn out right on the screen. This card is soft, and sweet, and soothing, and it just doesn't look like that here -- but trust me on this!

Have a great weekend!

Glitter Gel Window Giveaway

2011-03-03T14:13:00.003-05:00

I have to say, Viva Decor's Glitter Gel is pretty cool. I love how it makes this Glitter Gel Window Card (April 2011 Technique Junkie Newsletter) look! It has a great texture to it that just has to be touched. What? You say you don't have any Viva Decor Glitter Gel? Well now is your chance to get some -- along with other cool Viva Decor products -- with our Giveaway today. Susana's Custom Art and Card Design is our sponsor this week -- offering a $25.00 Gift Certificate for one lucky winner to shop in her store!

Of course, you are not limited to the Viva Decor products. Susana carries a bevy of unique and hard-to-find stamping items, paints, embossing folders, nesties, inks, etc. -- and stamps, too! When you browse through Susanas Custom Art and Card Design, you will be delighted with the cool stuff on her site. As a junkie, I need a fix of cool and interesting stuff from time-to-time -- believe me, I know where to get it now! Make sure to use this code: SASTJ10 for 10% off your shopping cart, too!

A little more about the card -- the bright front panel uses the Glimmer Press Technique - one of the 79 Technique Tutorials from the new Emboss or Die CD. The CDs are going in the mail TODAY! You can order your copy HERE if you have not yet done so.

To enter this giveaway, go to Susana's site and find a product or two that makes you drool. Then simply leave a comment on this blog post telling me what you found and you will be entered! Make sure to leave your email address so that I can get in touch with you, too. My random number generator will pick a winner on Monday March 7th at 8 am.

The $25.00 shopping spree awaits one lucky winner! Note that shipping is not included with the gift certificate.

The winner of this gift certificate is Lynda Hill.

Faux Barnwood with Stampotique!

2011-02-26T06:17:00.000-05:00

This week the Stampotique Team is teaming up with the Technique Junkie Team to challenge you to create a project using Stampotique images and the Faux Barnwood Technique. To play along, grab your Stampotique Stamps and use the Faux Barnwood Technique or any of the TJ Techniques for your chance to win 1 of 2 fabulous prizes! For full challenge details, click here.

I love my chatty girl. and I love the way the Faux Barnwood Technique turned out here, too -- I was able to really pick uyp the orangy-rust color in the "wood".

Now it is your turn to play along -- go to the Stampotique Blog and play along!

Blogger's Challenge: Sketch Challenge

2011-02-25T16:03:00.001-05:00

It's Friday and I am finally getting my Blogger's Challenge card posted! What a whirlwind my life has been this week...I am actually amazed that I was able to post anything at all.

I used the Petal Punch from Stampin' Up!, along with some of their Sell-a-bration sets (Are you sick of this flower punch yet? I am a little addicted to it). The background uses a Stamp Camp background stamp under the SU stamps. The total effect is It is a hybrid of the Bandana, Background Whimsy, and Pencil and Ink backgrounds, with some Glimmer Mist thrown in for good measure.

I love the way this flower turned out! I used the vintage paper from Stampin' Up!, a white Sharpie pen, and Glimmer mists on the petals. I had to take a little liberty with the sketch (below) though -- what do you think? Is it close enough?

You can play along, too -- simply create something using the sketch, and upload your card with the links below. Have fun!

Blogger's Challenge: Emboss Me

2011-02-18T09:57:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday! Today is Blogger's Challenge day and the theme is "Emboss Me." I am very excited about this theme, since I have a brand-new CD called "Emboss or Die" available for pre-order now! The Cd contains 79 pdf pictorial tutorials for using your embossing folders, Die Cut machines, and Electronic Cutters. You can order it HERE, or on the sidebar of my blog.

My Card uses the Antique Wallpaper Technique on the flower petals. That technique is in the June/July 2009 Technique Junkie Newsletter, and is also on the new CD! The stamps on this card are from Stampin' Up!, as is the petal punch.

One of the things I did with this card was to use the brick embossing folder on just a little bit of the card to give it more grunge and added texture. You can see it better here:

Have a great weekend!

A year of Bliss...

2011-02-16T19:10:00.001-05:00

Would you like this card -- and a free year of the Technique Junkie Newsletter (or the CD of your choice)? One lucky winner will receive just that.

The Technique Junkie Newsletter is the giveaway sponsor this week...and all you have to do to enter is to click on the "follow" button on my blog (feel free to leave a comment, too, but realized that the comment will not qualify as an entry). On Monday, Feb 21, I will select one of the followers via my random number generator...and that person will have the choice of the Newsletter for a year OR any TJ CD -- including the Emboss or Die or Fancy Folds CD -- of their choice. Anyone can enter this -- whether you are a long-time subscriber, brand new, or not a subscriber yet, there is a prize that fits everyone!

A little bit about this card...making it was cathartic to assuaging some of my obsessions. I LOVE stamps depicting the Eiffel Tower. I have at least 5 of them, and today I received this one in the mail. It is Stampin' Up!'s Artistic Etchings set. I had been holding my "need" to buy this stamp at bay, but recently lost the battle. When I saw the Bliss Sell-a-Bration set from SU, and the new petal punch and newsprint paper from the mini catalog, I just knew I had to work with them together. Believe me, it will not be the last you see of any of them (and no, I am not a demonstrator -- never have been, either).

The background was made using the Newsprint designer paper with the Simple Whitewash Technique from the August 2009 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. Instead of ink, I used two colors of Tsukineko's Walnut Ink Spray (Cherry Blossom and Lilac). The Stampin' Up! Artistic Etchings and Bliss stamps were collaged over the top. The flower was made by punching the petals from the same Newsprint paper, and sprayed with the same walnut inks; then they were inked, the edges were markered, and some of the petals were lightly brushed with gesso. I placed the flower on a black Cuttlebug Highlight (October 2008) piece.

Okay, now go to the sidebar on my blog and click on the FOLLOW button (scroll down past the "subscribe to this blog" and "grab this badge" sections (feel free to do that, too!) to the little "follow" button. Click on it, follow the directions, and you are entered! If you would like a SECOND chance, go to the TJ Design Team blog and click on the follow button to follow that blog, too!

Good luck!

Glassy Embossed Horse

2011-02-15T08:08:00.000-05:00

I was in a 1-on1 swap this month and had to make a card representing the letter "H". This card, using a Horse from Alluring Impressions, was my submission. I colored my Horst image using the Sepia Technique (October 2009 Technique Junkie Newsletter) and mounted it on a Torn Frame (December 2008 TJNL). That was placed on a Glassy Embossing Background (February 2010 TJN).

The Glassy Embossing Technique is also on the new Emboss or Die CD. There are 79 step-by-step pictorials on the CD -- including 49 new techniques and 30 from the archives, It is a library of embossing, die cutting and electronic cutting ideas, complete with the how-to and examples of what the design team has done. You can order it HERE for $17.95.

Bloggers Challenge: Love

2011-02-11T09:09:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday! Today is Blogger's challenge day and our theme is LOVE. Perfect for me...it forced me to make my DH's Valentines Day card!

My card uses a modified version of the Spots and Phrases Technique, one of the bonus techniques from CD8, as the background. I layered a Cuttlebug Highlights (October 2008) Heart and the saying over that. Finally, I used the Curled Corners Technique from the February issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter to add my final accent. All stamps Stampin' Up!.

If you have a minute, take a peek at the submissions from the other Blogger Challenge art by clicking on a picture below this post. I am sure the Bloggers Challenge girls will be adding their art all weekend, so check back to see more, then play along.

Hope you have a great Valentine's day weekend!

Distressed Colorblocking Giveaway

2011-02-09T08:15:00.003-05:00

Distressed Colorblocking, a technique from the new February 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter, is one of the easiest to do! It looks great with silhouette stamps -- so today's giveaway is pretty timely.

Our giveaway today is this fabulous stamp sheet from I Brake For Stamps -- perfect for the Distressed Colorblocking technique (like on the card above), and many more:

I Brake for Stamps has a brand new release! There are collage postage stamps and a carnation collage. You can view all of the new releases here: http://ibrakeforstamps.com/lateststampreleases.aspx. In addition, 75 images have been added to the website from the Embossing Arts line and the Time To Stamp line. To top that off, Save 15% off all in stock Sizzix Dies through February 10th.

To enter this giveaway for the Florals and Leaves stamp set, please leave your name and email address in the comments on this post on my blog (do not email me your submission). I suggest leaving your email address as follows: p huntoon at optonline dot net. You do not need to be a subscriber to enter this giveaway. My random number generator will be selecting a winner on Monday, February 14th at 9:00 am.

Good luck!

Zig-Zag Accordion Birthday

2011-02-07T14:52:00.000-05:00

I made this quite a while ago -- but for some reason, I never posted it (or at least I don't think I did!). It is a Zig-Zag Accordion Card from the Fancy Folds and Motion CD. This is one of those cards that my 14 year old told me was "cool enough to give to his friends." That doesn't happen often! Although he appreciates my cards, sending them to one of his buddies is something different entirely!

All of the stamps here are from Stampin' Up!. Details on the CD - which has 60 Fancy Folds and Motion Projects, all in step-by-step pdf format -- and how you can order your copy, are HERE.

Blogger's Challenge Reverse Herringbone

2011-02-04T06:58:00.001-05:00

I am delighted to be able to participate in Blogger's Challenge this week, especially since the theme this week is to use one of my favorite color combination: black, white and red. I always love this combination! This week, though, I am especially excited because of the card above!

Sometimes you just make something and it just makes you feel happy. This card does it for me! My Butterfly uses the Reverse Herringbone Technique from the soon-to-be-released Emboss or Die CD from the Technique Junkie Newsletter. I just love the technique, and I adore my butterfly! I paired it with these pretty little pearls, some paper lace, and a lovely saying from Stampin' Up!.

Like the technique? You can pre-order your copy of the CD HERE -- there are 79 techniques on the CD, all in step-by-step, pdf format -- with pictures for each step -- plus great artwork examples from the TJ design team. All designed to help you get the most from your Embossing Folders, Die Cut Machines, and Electronic Cutters. It is only $17.95. So much inspiration for so little!

The BC players are listed below -- click on any thumbnail to see their work, and play along, too! Have a great weekend.

Neutral Shadows Giveaway

2011-02-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

I love snowflake stamps, and the stamp set we are giving away today has plenty of gorgeous ones to work with! The bold outline of these stamps are perfect for the Neutral Shadows Technique from the February 2011 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter, as I did on the card above. Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps has generously given us the Snowflake Silhouette stamp set for our giveaway today:

In addition to the stamp set above, Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps also has some new releases that you will not want to miss. And Technique Junkies can take 10% off using the code: tjnrocks, too!

To enter this giveaway for the Snowflake Silhouettes Stamp set and Neutral Shadows card, please leave your name and email address in the comments on this post on my blog (do not email me your submission). I suggest leaving your email address as follows: p huntoon at optonline dot net. You do not need to be a subscriber to enter this giveaway. My random number generator will be selecting a winner on Monday, February 7th at 9:00 am.

Good luck!

Emboss or Die Sneak Peek - Faux Tooled Leather

2011-01-31T17:53:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the Technique Junkie Newsletter Design Team sneak peek blog hop! Today we are celebrating the launch of the NEW TJ Emboss or Die CD! This Cd has 79 pdf tutorials with ideas for getting the most from your Embossing Folders, Die Cut Machines and Electronic Cutters.The tutorials are in step-by-step format with pictures for each step and include fabulous artwork examples from the TJ Design Team. The CD is $17.95, and can be ordered directly HERE, on the sidebar of my blog, or even from the Technique Junkies home page. Pre-orders are being taken today, and the CD will be mailed the first week of March.

This card uses one of the techniques on the CD: Faux Tooled Leather. This rich-looking technique really looks like leather in person! And it is easy, too -- you have to love that kind of technique. I know I do!

Okay now you are in for a real treat! This sneak peek blog hop is in a different format than what you might be used to. All you have to do is click on one of the pictures below to be taken to any of the team's blog and to view their work -- and the thumbnails are on everyone's blogs, so you can hop around anywhere all you like! Note: all of the entries from the Design Team will be up by Tuesday morning at 8am...

I hope you enjoy the sneak peek -- and make sure to get your CD ordered today!

Blogger's Challenge Birthday

2011-01-28T06:54:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday! Today is Blogger's Challenge day and our theme is Birthdays. I love making birthday cards 0-- mainly because I never seem to have enough of them! Today's card is fun AND simple. This is a Hip To Be Square Card from the Technique Junkie Newsletter Fancy Folds and Motion CD. Can you believe that it only took me 15 minutes to make it?

The paper and cardstock is from Club Scrap, the Happy Birthday and inside greeting are from smARTworks, and the cattails inside the card are from Mark's Finest Papers.

I know these are not the best pictures -- it actually took me longer trying to get a good snapshot than it did to make the card!

If you have a chance, take a look at what the other challenge players did, below -- then join in with your own work!

Salty Glimmers Giveaway

2011-01-26T08:46:00.001-05:00

I love digi downloads -- and better than that, I love having them at my fingertips. The image on this card is from Twisted Papers. I am proud to be offering the Twisted Papers Victorian Scrap CD for one lucky winner as our giveaway this week.

The card above has a Salty Glimmers Background from the December 2010 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. The main image was colored with colored pencils and pastel pencils, and highlighted with a gold pen. The background looks flat on the computer screen, but it is shimmery in person!

Here is the CD that is being given away:

Description:
This collection is from a Victorian Scrap Album of the 1880s. Every item in the album has been scanned at 300 dpi, saved at actual size and painstakingly restored. The 126 Victorian scrap images on this CD are in two formats professional-quality, high resolution 300 dpi TIF files and lower resolution JPG files for viewing on your computer monitor. They are ready to use on both PC and Mac platforms.

To enter this giveaway for the Victorian Scrap CD and the card, please leave your name and email address in the comments on this post on my blog (do not email me your submission). I suggest leaving your email address as follows: p huntoon at optonline dot net. You do not need to be a subscriber to enter this giveaway. My random number generator will be selecting a winner on Friday, January 28st at 9:00 am.

Good luck!

Congratulations to Brook G, the winner of this giveaway!

Gesso and Gold Flowers

2011-01-24T12:00:00.000-05:00

I love the saying on this card. The stamps -- both the flowers and the saying -- are from from smARTworks. We all need friends to overlook our broken parts...and just love us for who we are, right?

This card uses the Glossy Gesso Technique from the December 2010 issue of the TJ Newsletter. The gold cardstock is from Paper Temptress.This is such a pretty card in person -- the gold and white against the black glossy just "works" for me : )

Thanks for taking time to admire my flowers!

Blogger's Challenge: Designer Paper

2011-01-21T09:14:00.002-05:00

Today's Blogger's Challenge was to use Designer Paper on our creations. Couldn't be easier, right? I made this Stationery Box from the Technique Junkie Newsletter Fancy Folds and Motion Paper Crafts CD a while ago, and for some reason, I never shared it! (I have to apologize for the dark picture -- I took this on my kitchen table. Red Granite is NOT the best surface for taking pictures). I love this paper -- it has specks of glitter and raised texture throughout, and it is stunning on the box!

This box was a gift, and included the gift tags, pocket notes, and the 5 cards I made from the scraps left over from making the box. It is Easy to make, too! Don't forget, the Fancy Folds and Motion CD has 60 project tutorials in step-by-step, printable format -- with pictures for each step and plenty of examples for inspiration. It is only $17.95 -- for 60 -- yes SIXTY tutorials! Order using the link on my blog or here.

If you would like to join the Blogger's Challenge, or even just take a peek at what the other players did this week, click on the links below my signature -- and play along, too!

Short Accordion and a giveaway!

2011-01-19T06:59:00.004-05:00

I adore this little guy from Mark's Finest Paper. He just could not be cuter! He was the perfect size for this Short Graduated Accordion Card from the TJ Newsletter Fancy Folds and Motion Paper Crafts CD, too. All papers are from Mark's Finest Papers -- who is our giveaway sponsor, also!

Since we are on a nature theme, let's do this set as a giveaway today:

Mark's Finest Papers has been selling their self-branded stamp sets since January 2010. They have 56 full sets available, all made in the USA with photopolymer. There are two lines of stamps: Speedy the Cat's Designer Collection and the Two Big Boxers Collection.

This set is from the Two Big Boxers Collection. Recently, the company owners acquired two Boxer puppies, Kittie Kat and Tom Kat. As part of their dedication to the health and welfare of animals, the company gives partial proceeds from the sales of the entire Two Big Boxers Product Line to support Free Spay/Neuter clinics on Florida's First Coast.

Ready to order? Use this discount code for 15% off: TJ15NOW it is good thru January 25.

To enter this giveaway from the stamp set above and the card, please leave your name and email address in the comments on this post on my blog (do not email me your submission). I suggest leaving your email address as follows: p huntoon at optonline dot net. You do not need to be a subscriber to enter this giveaway. My random number generator will be selecting a winner on Friday, January 21st at 9:00 am.

Good luck!

Congratulations to Gail Cook -- the winner of this giveaway!

By the Inch with Silken Mist

2011-01-17T08:10:00.000-05:00

One of the things I love best about the By the Inch Technique from the October 2010 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter is that ANY technique can be used for the collaged background. After 8 years of producing the newsletter, I have a HUGE drawer of cardfront-sized sheets of technique papers. It is a joy to pull a random one out and create something entirely new!

This By the Inch card uses stamps from smARTworks. The background was a piece of Silken Mist (October 2006) that has a gorgeous, subtle shimmer to it. I used 7 or eight smARTworks stamps to create my collage. I added touches of silver, gold and some crystals throughout this card -- it is a shame I couldn't capture them with the camera lens.

Have a great day!

Acrylic Embossed Journey

2011-01-15T08:05:00.003-05:00

I made this card for the Frosted Designs Challenge. We are the sponsor this week! The challenge is to use paint in your design. Run on over there and join the challenge -- we are giving away a Fancy Folds CD and a one-year, online-only subscription. You can get in on the fun, too!

The card I made for this challenge uses the Acrylic Emboss Technique from the August 2010 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. I use the cracked glass embossing folder over my painted piece, and layered my ribbon and car on that. The stamps I used are from My Paper Moon. I colored the car with Copics. I love the perspective on the stamp -- it is so unique!

Run on over to the Frosted Designs Challenge Blog -- you could be a lucky winner!

Blogger's challenge: Sketch challenge

2011-01-14T07:15:00.002-05:00

Yoo Hoo! I am finally playing in the Blogger's Challenge again. Today's challenge was a sketch challenge, and it was a simple one to boot! the sketch is on the right - give it a try!

My submission for the challenge uses Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps on a piece of Newsprint Reveal from the April 2009 issue of the Technique Junkie Newsletter. That piece is layered over a piece of gray paper that uses the Texture Duet Technique (October 2010 issue of the TJNL). All papers are from Paper Temptress.

If you have a chance, click on the Blogger's Challenge link on my blog to see the creations from the other players. It is always a feast for the eyes!

Have a great weekend!