Saturday, January 31, 2009

Cookie Love!

Hi there! Happy Saturday to you! Today's Preview is of two new sets by Diane Zechman's Cookie Crumbs Stamps, Cookie Jar and Cookie Jar-gon. Fitting sets, don't you think? :)

There are so many cute images in the Cookie Jar set, so I wanted to use a few of them on this card. I decided to spotlight one image to coordinate with the sentiment. It's a pretty simple design, so I jazzed it up with some machine stitching and a fun ribbon treatment. I also added a ghost shape and button.

Stop by the ATS Blog to see more DT samples, and go to Diane's blog to find out how you can win a set!

Did you know that Christine has a lot of items on sale? Go to All That Scraps to find out more! Did you also know that she carries stamps by many other manufacturers, including the popular Magnolia and Whiff of Joy stamps? You can find all of them HERE! That's all for me today -- happy shopping and happy stamping! :)

Have a great day -- thanks for stopping by!
Christina

Stamps: Cookie Jar, Cookie Jar-gon (Cookie Crumbs Stamps) Ink: Momento Rich Cocoa (Tsukineko), Pretty in Pink (SU!) Cardstock: Old Olive, Chocolate Chip (SU!) Paper: Bittersweet (BasicGrey) Other: Lace Edge Punch (Martha Stewart), Regal Rose 5/8" grosgrain ribbon (SU!), heart ribbon (May Arts), Ghost Shape heart (Heidi Swapp), Bittersweet button (BasicGrey), sponge, dimensionals, sewing machine

Friday, January 30, 2009

It's Preview Time!

Happy Friday, everyone! Today begins the previews for the February All That Scraps releases! Take a look at the new set from AmyR Stamps, Cozy & Warm. Amy has added some comfy additions to the wardrobe, like this robe!

I created a little get well card, complete with a tea bag. I paper pieced the image with SU! Bella Rose dp. I Cuttlebugged just the front panel with the Swiss Dots embossing folder.

Be sure to visit the ATS Blog today to see more samples with Amy's set -- you can also find out how you can win one! The set will be released Monday, February 2 at 10:00 pm EST.

Before I go, I want to share this card I made for two challenges yesterday (Carole would call this a two-fer!). It was for the MFT Sketch Challenge and the Ways to Use It Challenge (alcohol). I used this alcohol-themed image and my alcohol-based Copic markers! ;) I used the set Meet Me at the Cafe, and the paper is Infuse by BasicGrey.

Okay, that's it for today! I'll be back tomorrow with another ATS preview! Thank you so much for visiting today!

Have a wonderful day!
Christina


Thursday, January 29, 2009

Hay, Chick!

Hello! Happy Thursday! We're still in a deep freeze here -- my kids are off school again today. The temps won't get above freezing for several days, so it looks like the ice and snow are here to stay for a while!

Yesterday I got a chance to play with Jen del Muro's Sketch for You to Try. I haven't done one in forever -- she always has the best sketches! The images are from Anna Wight's set Crazy for Chickens by Whippersnapper Designs. I am a BIG fan of Anna's images, and I don't get to ink them up nearly enough! I stamped the checker border directly onto the Daisy D's paper, and I also stamped a path with the chicken feet, although it didn't show up well against the dp. I colored with Copics and sponged around the circle.

It was a fun sketch and a fun stamp set, so it was a fun card to make! There will be more fun tomorrow, because we're starting previews of the February All That Scraps releases! I hope you'll stop back to see! Thanks so much for visiting today!

Have a great day!
Christina

Stamps: Crazy for Chickens (Whippersnapper Designs) Ink: Momento Rich Cocoa (Tsukineko) Cardstock: Always Artichoke, So Saffron (SU!) Paper: French Market Swatches (Daisy D's) Other: Ciao markers (Copic); Circle Nestabilities (Spellbinders); scalloped ribbon (May Arts); Vintage brads (SU!); sponge, dimensionals

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

When Life Hands You Snow...

You make snowman cards! We're in the middle of a big snow storm -- several inches of snow, followed by ice, followed by several more inches of snow! Here are some photos of what I woke up to this morning...

This first photo was taken from my front porch. Look at all the ice on the tree!

Here's a view from my back door, looking across the deck.

This is the second day my kids have been off school, so it's a little crazy around here! I finally managed to sneak downstairs and stamp last night. Here's the card I made for yesterday's SCS Color Challenge -- Garden Green, Pacific Point and Baja Breeze. I wasn't loving this combo when I first saw it, but it really has grown on me! I used the set A Scarf for Three by MFT Presents, illustrated by Stephanie Fizer. The DP is Ski Slope by SU!. I colored with a combination of Copics and a blender pen & SU! inks. The hats are paper pieced with the DP.

My next card is for today's ATS Wednesday Challenge, Brads Galore. I used 14 brads along the scallops -- I don't think I have ever had that many brads on a card before! The images are from Winter Bear by C.C. Designs, and the paper is from the Be Merry collection by My Minds Eye. I colored with Copics, and I used some Icicle Stickles for the snow. The center snowman is popped up on dimensionals.

If you want to play along with the brads challenge, use keyword ATSDTC34. Then upload it to the Challenge Gallery so we can see it! Go HERE to see a list of all the challenges -- play along at any time!

Well, that's it for today! I'm going to drink my coffee and watch the snow fall! Hopefully I'll get some stamping done, too! Thanks for visiting today -- I'm so glad you stopped by!

Have a great day!
Christina

Monday, January 26, 2009

Wintery RAKs

Happy Monday, everyone! It's cold and snowy here today, and we're expecting several more inches tonight and tomorrow. School delays and my tutoring made the morning a little crazy, so I don't have a project ready to share just yet. But, I do have a couple of RAKs to show you. I received both of them this month, and they definitely warmed my heart!

The first one is from Jackie Pedro of The Scalloped Edge. I have been stalking her blog and SCS gallery for quite a while. She is so talented, and I just *love* her style! She serves on several design teams, and is the newest Verve Diva! Thank you Jackie -- your card made my day!

This next card is from Julee Tilman of Poetic Artistry. I am such a BIG fan of her gorgeous work and her Verve Stamps, so I was tickled when her card arrived in the mail! Thank you so much, Julee!

Thanks for stopping by today -- I'll have some of my own work to share tomorrow! Have a fantastic day!

Stay warm!
Christina


Sunday, January 25, 2009

Sunday Supper: Barb's Beef Burgundy

Happy Sunday, everyone! The fundraiser last night was a huge success and a lot of fun! Thanks for the well-wishes!

Today is going to be a catch-up day around the house, but I wanted to point you in the direction of a great recipe. Kathi emailed me last week to tell me about a recipe on a blog called A Chelsea Morning. Barb has a great blog, filled with family events, inspiration, tips, and recipes. Here's a link to her Beef Burgundy Recipe. She gives directions and then shows a tutorial -- so easy! :)

Thanks, Kathi, for pointing me in the direction of Barb's blog! I'll be sure to go back! :)

Have a great day, everyone -- I'll be back with more stamping tomorrow!

Christina

Friday, January 23, 2009

Another Review Preview!

Happy Friday, everyone! It's been a busy week for the ATS team! We have another "Review Preview" of a recently released set, and this time it's Kisses and Hugs. I colored the little Cupid Bear with Copics and I sponged around the edge of the image circle. I added some Stickles to the halo and wings. The paper is from the Quite Smitten collection by My Minds Eye. I covered a chipboard heart with more MME paper, and I stamped the sentiment directly on it. The background is embossed with the Cuttlebug and Swiss Dots embossing folder.

Look at this little Flamingo -- isn't he so cute? Christine just released him as a digital image! Yesterday she released all of her C.C. Designs images as Digi Images -- now is the time to try them out! Don't worry -- you can still get them in rubber, but it's fun to have so many options! :)

I colored him with Copics, then I painted him with Opal Shimmerz. He is so perfectly paired with this BasicGrey Sugared paper! The sentiment is from AmyR's set Love Sentiments. I used my Cuttlebug again for the background, this time with the Heart Blocks embossing folder.

I have a busy weekend ahead -- My friend Traci and I are co-chairing a fundraiser tomorrow, so I won't have anything to share here. I'm not sure how I got any stamping done at all this week -- I think I just needed to relieve some stress! ;) The fundraiser is for Malia's CORD Foundation, which funds research to cure pediatric spinal cord tumors. Malia's mother is Traci's cousin, so that's how we became involved! If you get a second, say a little prayer for the success of the fundraiser! :)

I hope you have something fun planned for the weekend, and I hope you get some stamping time, too! Thank you so much for visiting today!

Have a great Friday!
Christina

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Challenge Fun!

Happy Thursday, everyone! Today I have a couple challenge cards to share with you. Both were made with stamps from My Favorite Things. The first is for today's MFT Sketch Challenge. I used What's Up Cupcake and BasicGrey Cupcake paper. I colored gemstones with a Copic marker to make the cherries on the cupcakes. The flowers are by Prima.

The second card is for two challenges: yesterday's SCS Sketch Challenge and the MFT What's Up Wednesday Challenge to use three ribbons on your project. The images are from Bunny Slippers, and the paper is Ambrosia by BasicGrey. I paper pieced the soup bowl with the paper.

I definitely had fun pairing my MFT stamps with BasicGrey paper! *LOL* I hope you like my samples, and I hope you have a chance to play in the challenges, too! That's all for today -- thank you so much for stopping by! :)

Have a fabulous day!
Christina

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Your Cave or Mine?

Hi there! Happy Wednesday! Today's ATS Wednesday Challenge is to do Faux Stitching. I often use faux stitching on my projects, so this was fun for me!

I made a Valentine card with these images from Eric and Chrissy Go Prehistoric. This was the sentiment I suggested when Christine was designing the set, so of course I had to use it! :) I faux stitched a border around the heart paper. The card measures 4.25" square.

Play along with us, and use keyword ATSDTC33 when uploading. We'd love to see your project in the Wednesday Challenge Gallery! You can play along with any challenge at any time -- go HERE to see all of them! The Design Team projects will be posted on the ATS Blog today -- I can't wait to see what everyone has done!

That's it for me today! Tomorrow I'll have this week's MFT sketch challenge to show you -- it's a good one! Thanks so much for visiting today -- I always appreciate it! :)

Have a fantastic day!
Christina

Stamps: Eric and Chrissy Go Prehistoric (C.C. Designs) Ink: Momento Rich Cocoa (Tsukineko), River Rock (SU!) Cardstock: True Thyme, Regal Rose (SU!) Paper: Irresistible Sweethearts (My Mind's Eye) Other: Copics; Circle Nestabilities (Spellbinders); Ghost Shape Heart (Heidi Swapp); Bittersweet button (Basic Grey); heart ribbon (May Arts); Chocolate Chip marker (SU!); paper piercer, sponge, dimensionals

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Snow Friends Review Preview

Hi! Happy Tuesday! Today the ATS team is doing another "Review Preview" of a newly released set. It's the Cookie Crumbs set Snow Friends. I love this image of the bunny giving the snowman his carrot -- it's just too sweet! :)

I colored the image with Copics and paper pieced his scarf.I sponged around the image, and I added some Stickles to the ground. I applied some Liquid Applique to the bunny's tail and heated it to puff it up. I just can't get enough of my snowflake and lace edge punches -- someone is going to have to forceably remove them from me! ;) I figure I might as well use them while I can -- soon enough it will be time for spring projects!

Julie will be posting the DT projects on the ATS Blog today, so stop by when you get a chance!

Today I'm planning to watch some of the Presidential Inauguration festivities. If you're an American, no matter which way you wanted the election to go, it's definitely an historic day! I'll be back tomorrow with some challenge fun for you! Thanks for visiting!

Have a great day!
Christina

Stamps: Snow Friends (Cookie Crumbs Stamps) Ink: Momento Rich Cocoa (Tsukineko), Soft Sky (SU!) Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Soft Sky (SU!) Paper: Figgy 6x6 pad (BasicGrey) Other: Copics; Cuttlebug, Snowflakes embossing folder (Provo Craft); snowflakes punches, lace edge punch (Martha Stewart); white organdy ribbon; rhinestones, sponge, dimensionals

Monday, January 19, 2009

Decorated Hearts

Hi there! Happy Monday to you! My weekend got away from me, and I realized last night that I didn't post a Sunday Supper recipe --I'll be sure to have one for you next week! Thank you all so much for your comments on my new stamping space. I'm really enjoying it, and I mean it -- you're welcome to stamp next to me any time! :) For today, I have a Valentine card made with Decorated Hearts by American Art Stamp. I paired it with this yummy Bittersweet paper, and I think they go together so well!

I stamped the image in Colorbox Razzberry ink. Instead of coloring it, I decided to heat emboss it with Iridescent Ice embossing powder. The photo doesn't do it justice -- it is much prettier IRL! I sponged all the edges with Close to Cocoa ink, and I added a row of Dew Drops to the bottom.

All my kids are off school today because of Martin Luther King Day, so I'm off to spend some time with them! Thank you so much for stopping by!

Have a fantastic day!
Christina

Stamps: Decorated Hearts, Love Grows (American Art Stamp) Ink: Colorbox Razzberry (Clearsnap): Close to Cocoa, Chocolate Chip (SU!) Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Purely Pomegranate (SU!) Paper: Bittersweet 6x6 pad (BasicGrey) Other: Circle Nestabilities, Tag Trio (Spellbinders); Cuttlebug, Swiss Dots embossing folder (Provo Craft); Poinsettia Dew Drops (Robins Nest), scalloped ribbon (May Arts); Iridescent Ice EP, heat tool, copper cord, stamping sponge, dimensionals (SU!)

Saturday, January 17, 2009

My New Space!

Hello! I have photos of my new craft space to share with you! Before you take the tour, I probably need to give you a little background...

This was my stamping area before construction. It is on the left side of our office in the basement. Chris has his area directly behind mine on the other wall. The problem was that my stuff started to take over everything, including his side, and I had nowhere to go with all of it. I was using a 6' table placed in front of our storage closets, and it blocked the two sets of folding doors. The only way into the storage closets was through a door to another small storage area (to the right of the bookcase) and around the back through a narrow opening. My stuff was just piling up everywhere, as you can clearly see!!

So, we moved all my stuff into the main area of the basement and cleared out the storage closets. We moved most of what was in the storage closets either to the area inside the other door or up to the attic. We ended up with a large donation pile, and we threw a lot away, too!

Here are the empty storage closets...


...and here they are as my new stamping space!!! :)


The other photos were at an angle, so now I'll show you each side head-on. Here is the left side, where I have my sewing machine, laptop, and cutting & embossing tools. There is another shelf above the one holding my stamps, and I have more stamp sets and some of my unloved scrapbooking materials up there.

And here's the right side, where I have most of my stamping materials. There is plenty of open shelving above and below the counter on both sides, and there is a set of drawers in the center. The drawers hold most of my embellishments and all of my C.C. Designs/All That Scraps stamp sets! The file cabinet on the lower right holds my SU! cardstock.

Here's a view looking from left to right behind the folding doors. I have plenty of room in there, even if the doors were closed on me! ;)

Finally, here is my cardstock storage system. I have them filed by color family in the top drawer. The bottom drawer holds the neutrals and In Colors. Can you tell I just replenished my Old Olive and Chocolate Chip?? ;)

Well, that's it! I am SO thankful to Chris for this amazing gift! I know it was just a teeny bit selfish on his part -- after all, he got his space back, and now he can shut me in the closet!! *LOL* Seriously though, it is a joy to come down here each morning! Since there are two stations side-by-side, it sure would be fun to have a friend stamping next to me, so let me know if you're ever in the Greater Cincinnati or Northern Kentucky area! :)

Thanks so much for letting me share my new space with you! Now, I'm off to enjoy a little stamping there!

Have a great day and a fantastic weekend!
Christina

Friday, January 16, 2009

Paper Pleasing Encouraging Verses

Happy Friday, everyone! This morning it's -6 degrees F (-18 wind chill) outside. I am dreading taking Caroline to school in a little while! But for now, I'm here with a hot cup of coffee and a very warm robe! :)

Here is a card I made with one of the Paper Pleasing Encouraging Verses available at All That Scraps. There are seven digi images in the set, and they are beautiful! This was a quick and easy card to make. After printing out the verse on cardstock, I matted it and added just a couple embellishments. I wanted the focus to be on the verse, so I didn't do a lot to the card. All the paper was from my scrap box -- it was so much easier to find now that I organized my scraps! :)

That's all for today! Tomorrow I'll have pics of my new space -- I hope you'll stop back! Thanks for the visit today -- have a great Friday!

Stay warm!
Christina

Image: Paper Pleasing Digi Images - Encouraging Verses Cardstock: Barely Banana, Ruby Red, Basic Black (SU!) Paper: Stella Ruby (BasicGrey) Other: Curved Rectangle Nestabiltities (Spellbinders); lace edge punch (Martha Stewart); black brads, black organdy ribbon, copper cord, dimensionals

Thursday, January 15, 2009

CHA Sample

Hi there! Happy Thursday to you! Guess what I did last night instead of stamping? I cleaned and organized my scraps! My scraps took up two boxes, and now it's down to one (WHY did I save those microscopic pieces anyway?)! I actually have them organized by color in file folders -- let's see how long that lasts!! LOL

Anyway, I didn't get to finish the project I was working on, but I do have this MFT card to share with you. Kim asked the team to make samples for CHA using the new Stephanie Fizer digital papers. This card is made with Stephanie's spring papers and the Who's That E-girl set.

I colored with Copics and paper pieced the sofa. I used my Cuttlebug, Rectangle Nestabilities, and Martha Stewart punch along with these fun Prima flowers. I love the way it all came together! These digital papers are so great to work with -- and you have an endless supply! Try them if you haven't already!

Speaking of digital, Julie Buhler just released her Paper Pleasing Digital Images at All That Scraps. It is a beautiful set called Encouraging Verses. Now that my things are set up again, I'll be printing out the verses and working on some cards. Go to the ATS Blog to see some samples and find out how you can win your own set of digital images. I'll have a sample to share with you tomorrow!

Thank you for the visit today -- I'm always glad when you stop by! Stay warm!

Have a fantastic day!
Christina

Stamps: Who's That E-girl (MFT) Ink: Momento Tuxedo Black (Tsukineko) Cardstock: Wild Wasabi, Pixie Pink, Whisper White (SU!) Paper: Stephanie Fizer Spring digital pack (MFT) Other: Copics; Cuttlebug, Bloom Dots embossing folder (Provo Craft); Lace edge punch (Martha Stewart), Rectangle Nestabilities (Spellbinders); Obsessions mulberry paper flowers (Prima); lily white blossoms braddies (Doodlebug); pink dotted organdy ribbon (May Arts); silver cord, dimensionals

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

It's Finished! I'm Stamping Again!

Hello! Happy Wednesday! It's a VERY happy day for me, because my craft space is finished!! *big grin* I am SO happy -- I have so much room to create and to store all my stuff! I have the best husband -- THANK YOU, Chris!! :) I spent most of last night trying to put all my things where I want them, but I have a few things left to do. I'll share pics as soon as I can!

This morning, as soon as the kids were off to school, I stamped again! I made a Double Pocket bag for today's ATS Wednesday Challenge. The tutorial can be found HERE.

It was a quick and easy project. I tucked some cocoa packets into my pockets -- it's cooooold here today, and some cocoa just sounded good! The paper is from the Quite Smitten collection by My Minds Eye. I colored with Copics and added highlights with an Inkssentials white gel pen. I sponged around the image, sentiment, and white snowflake with SU! Close to Cocoa ink. I used a Marvy Super Jumbo snowflake punch and Martha Stewart snowflake punches, and I added a gemstone to the center.


Play along with us! Upload your project to the ATS Wednesday Challenge Gallery, and use keyword ATSDTC32. We'd love to see what you create! Stop by the ATS Blog later on to see what the DT came up with!

Well, I'm off to do some more organizing and stamping! Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Have a great day!
Christina


Monday, January 12, 2009

Weekly WOW!

Hi there! Happy Monday! I don't have anything to share today -- it's still a mess around here -- but I do have something fun to tell you about! My Favorite Things has a new feature every Monday -- the Weekly WOW. It will showcase some fun products and some great ways to use them! Head over to Kim's Blog to find out more! :)

I hope to have something to share with you tomorrow! Thanks so much for stopping by!

Have a great day!
Christina

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Stampin' When I Can!

Hi there! Happy Saturday to you! Sorry about the lack of posting -- I have a good reason, I promise! My awesome husband gave me a new craft space for Christmas, and it's under construction right now! The problem, however, is that my supplies are now scattered throughout the basement, dining room and kitchen. Needless to say, getting a card completed is no easy task! You should see my kitchen countertops right now!!

Anyway, this is the card I started on Thursday and completed this afternoon. I made it for this week's Ways to Use It Challenge at SCS -- using stars. Right away I knew I wanted to use this Glam Girl -- she's definitely a rock star!

I colored with Copics, and I even gave her a pink streak in her hair! I stamped a second guitar and mounted it over the first using dimensionals. I colored her glasses with a Stardust Gelly Roll pen, and I added some Icicle Stickles to the guitar.

That's all for now! Hopefully I can hunt through my stacks and boxes of supplies and create something else soon! Thanks for stopping by today!

Have a great day and a fantastic weekend! :)
Christina

Stamps: Glam Girls III (C.C. Designs) Ink: Momento Rich Cocoa (Tsukineko), Baja Breeze (SU!) Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Pretty in Pink (SU!) Paper: American Crafts Other: Copics; Cuttlebug, Swiss Dots folder (Provo Craft); Chocolate Chip 5/8" grosgrain ribbon, Ice Circles brad, stamping sponge, stampin' dimensionals (SU!); pink dotted organdy ribbon (May Arts); Stardust Gelly Roll pen (Sakura); Icicle Stickles (Ranger)

Thursday, January 8, 2009

A Little Bunny Fun!

Happy Thursday, everyone! As you probably know by now, My Favorite Things released four new sets last night -- what you might not know is that there were new digital paper packs released as well! You can see the Stephanie Fizer papers HERE. You can get the entire collection or get each seasonal pack separately. The papers are easy to use, and you can print them on paper, cardstock, transparancies, whatever! Jody has a great tutorial on using the digital paper packs on the MFT Forum -- check it out!

Okay, on to the card! I knew I wanted to make a card with Stephanie's spring papers. As I looked at them I thought about spring... and Easter... and my maid became a bunny!! I colored her with Copics and paper pieced her outfit, altering it just a bit! ;) I painted some Opal Shimmerz on her legs so she'd have some shimmery stockings! I paper pieced the carpet with some of the paper, and I added some Fun Flock to her man's slippers. This was definitely a fun card to make!

Thanks for all your sweet comments on my MFTeasers! This release has been a lot of fun for me! Now, I have more work to do with more fantastic stamps -- guess I'd better get inky! Thanks so much for stopping by today -- I really appreciate it!

Have a great day!
Christina

Stamps: Maid for You (MFT) Ink: Brilliance Graphite Black, Basic Black Cardstock: Wild Wasabi, Regal Rose (SU!) Papers: Stephanie Fizer Spring digital paper pack (MFT) Other: Copics, Prima flowers, Dew Drops, pink dotted organdy ribbon, tan Fun Flock, Opal Shimmerz, dimensionals

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Blog Hopping with Flopsey!

Hi there! You've come to my stop on the January MFT Blog Hop! If you haven't been to all the stops before mine, go to Kim's Blog and start from there! You don't want to miss anything! Also, be sure to follow the Blog Hop all the way to the end -- there just might be a MFT treat waiting for you there!!

For my project, I made a hanging pocket card to go over a wine bottle (or any other bottle). The inside can hold a gift card for a movie or restaurant, or you can just write a little love note -- perfect for that special Valentine's evening in! ;)

The paper I used is from the Kiss Collection digital paper pack by MFT. It's perfect paired with these sweetheart braddies by Doodlebug. Flopsey is colored with Copics, and I added some pink to the heart, ears and cheeks with pastels. I cut out the image and mounted it over a circle I embossed with my Cuttlebug and Swiss Dots folder.

Don't forget... My Favorite Things is having a New Release Cocktail Party tonight from 9-10 p.m. Eastern time. This month there are FOUR new sets being released including a Who's that Girl set that is Maid for You! Head over to the MFT Forum at SCS to find out all the details and to find out how YOU can be the next MFT Guest Designer. We hope to see you there!

I hope you enjoyed my stop -- now hop on over to visit the amazing Cindy Haffner. She's sure to have some fantastic eye candy for you! :)

Thanks so much for the visit -- have a great day!
Christina

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Maid for You!

Happy Tuesday, everyone! I have another MFTeaser for you -- this time of the set Maid for You, this month's Who's That Girl? set. It is such a fun set -- as you can see! ;) The rest of the sentiments are great, too!

I embossed the background cardstock with a Cuttlebug and Heart Blocks folder. The paper is from one of the MFT Digital Paper Packs, Kiss Collection. I'm loving the digital paper packs -- they print beautifully (I printed mine on SU! Whisper White cardstock), and they don't take up a lot of printer ink!

I colored the image with Copics, and I added some white gel dots to the wall. You can't see it well in the photo, but I applied Crystal Lacquer to her shoes -- they look just like patent leather pumps! I also put some Frosted Lace Stickles on the ruffle of her dress.

My Favorite Things is having a New Release Cocktail Party on Wednesday, January 7th (tomorrow) from 9-10 p.m. Eastern time. This month there are FOUR new sets being released including a Who's that Girl set that is Maid for You! Head over to the MFT Forum on Splitcoaststampers to find out all the details and to find out how YOU can be the next MFT Guest Designer. We hope to see you there tomorrow night!

Thanks for the visit today -- I'm so glad you stopped by!

Have a wonderful day!
Christina

Stamps: Maid for You (MFT) Ink: Brilliance Graphite Black (Tsukineko), Basic Black (SU!) Cardstock: Real Red, Basic Black Whisper White (SU!) Paper: Kiss Collection Digitial Pack (MFT) Other: Copics, Cuttlebug, Heart Blocks folder, scallop edge punch, red satin ribbon, red brads, paper piercer, white gel pen, Frosted Lace Stickles, Crystal Lacquer, dimensionals

Monday, January 5, 2009

Valentine Flopsey

Happy Monday! As promised, I have a MFTeaser for you! Here's a peek at Valentine Flopsey, one of four sets being released Wednesday at My Favorite Things.

I colored Flopsey with Copics and added pink to the ears and cheeks with pastels. I sponged around the edges of the image panel with So Saffron ink. I stamped the heart a second time on the dp, cut it out, and mounted it on dimensionals. Then I stamped Flopsey's hands (...feet?...paws?) a second time and adhered them over the heart with rolled up glue dots. It's difficult to see in the photo, but I machine stitched around the horizontal panel and added two dew drops to the bottom corner.

My Favorite Things is having a New Release Cocktail Party on Wednesday, January 7th from 9-10 p.m. Eastern time. This month there are FOUR new sets being released including a Who's that Girl set that is Maid for You! Head over to the MFT Forum on Splitcoaststampers to find out all the details and to find out how YOU can be the next MFT Guest Designer. We hope to see you there on Wednesday night!

Also, don't forget about the release tonight at 10:00 pm EST at All That Scraps! :)

Thank you so much for the visit today! I always appreciate it!

Have a fantastic day!
Christina

Stamps: Valentine Flopsey (MFT) Ink: Momento Rich Cocoa (Tsukineko), So Saffron (SU!) Cardstock: Old Olive, Chocolate Chip, Whisper White (SU!) Paper: Sugared 6x6 pad (BasicGrey) Other: Copics, Rectangle Nestabilities, scallop edge punch, brown satin ribbon, Dew Drops, Prima hydrangeas, button, sponge, dimensionals, glue dots, sewing machine

Sunday, January 4, 2009

Hey Cupid!

Happy Sunday to you! I have one more C.C. Designs set to preview. It's a Gingersnaps set called Hey Cupid!. I have to say that I *heart* this line that Christine has created. The images are so adorable, and they really are fun to play with! Here I created a 4.25" square card with a simple layout. I just used some Scenic Route Surprise paper, my Marvy punches, and my Cuttlebug and Heart Blocks folder. I colored with Copics, sponged aound the circle, and added some white dots with a gel pen. For sparkle, I added Stardust Stickles to the wing and Stardust Gelly Roll pen on the bow.

Be sure to stop by the ATS Blog to see more samples and to find out how you can win the new sets! They all will be available tomorrow at 10:00 pm EST at All That Scraps!

I can't leave today without sharing a Sunday Supper recipe! This is one from kraftfoods.com. I can always find quick and easy family recipes on their web site. This one is a stove-top lasagna dish!

Weeknight Lasagna Toss

1 lb. lean ground beef
2 cups chopped green peppers (about 2 peppers)
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 jar (26 oz.) spaghetti sauce
1-2/3 cups water
1/4 cup KRAFT Zesty Italian Dressing
12 oven-ready lasagna noodles, broken into quarters
1 cup KRAFT Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese

BROWN meat in large (4-qt.) saucepan on medium heat; drain.
ADD peppers, garlic, spaghetti sauce, water and dressing; bring to boil. Stir in noodles; reduce heat to medium-low. Cover.
COOK, stirring occasionally, 10 to 15 min. or until noodles are tender. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with cheese. Cover; let stand 5 min. or until cheese is melted.


That's it for today! We'll be spending the rest of the day putting the remainder of our holiday decorations away, then tomorrow it's back to school for all my kids! I'll be glad to return to a normal schedule around here! Tomorrow I'll also have a MFTeaser for you, so I hope you'll be back! :)

Thank you so much for stopping by today!

Have a great Sunday!
Christina

Saturday, January 3, 2009

Kisses and Hugs

Happy Saturday, everyone! Today I'm previewing a new C.C. Designs Itzie Inkies set called Kisses and Hugs. Christine has done it again with adorable characters -- a pig, a bunny, and a bear!

For my first project, I did a version of a 2-4-6-8 box. It is 2" wide and 4" tall. Instead of closing the top, I created a top "cuff" that was scored, scalloped and folded over to leave the box open. The dp is from the Be Merry collection by My Mind's Eye. I used a small Rectangle Nestabilities to cut the window out of the middle panel before I assembled the box. Then I filled a cello bag with kisses and put it in the box!

Here's a closeup of the tag. I colored with Prismacolor Pencils and OMS, then I added Stardust Stickles to the wings and halo. I sponged around the image and the sentiment with SU! Kiwi Kiss ink.

My second project is a card made with SU! Sweet Always dsp. I *love * this paper -- the color combination just screams chocolate candy! :)

I colored with Copics, sponged the edges, and added Cotton Candy Stickles to the wings. I also added a few highlights with an Inkssentials white gel pen. There are Peony Dew Drops in the centers of the Prima flowers.

Be sure to stop by the ATS Blog today to see more Design Team samples! All of the new sets will be available Monday, January 5 at All That Scraps!

I'm so glad you stopped by today! Thank you so much!

Have a wonderful Saturday!
Christina

Friday, January 2, 2009

Snow Friends

Hi there! Happy Friday! Today I have a preview of a new set by Diane Zechman's Cookie Crumbs Stamps. It's called Snow Friends, and it is SO cute! I'm a sucker for snowmen, and Diane has created some great ones!

I colored the snowman with Copics and sponged around the edge of the image panel. I used Sparkle Fibers to make the snow under the image. In the corner I layered a Heidi Swapp Snowflake, a Prima Poinsettia, and punched cardstock snowflake. I added a Gemstone and some Stickles to the snowflake for more sparkle.

You can see more samples of this set at the ATS Blog, and Diane is giving away a set on her blog, Paper Cookies. Be sure to stop by! The previews continue tomorrow -- I hope you'll be back! Thanks so much for the visit today!

Have a great day!
Christina

Stamps: Snow Friends (Cookie Crumbs Stamps) Ink: Brilliance Graphite Black (Tsukineko); Soft Sky, Basic Black (SU!) Cardstock: Basic Black, Riding Hood Red, Whisper White (SU!) Paper: Let it Snow (Flair Design) Other: Ciao markers (Copic); Cuttlebug, Snowflakes embossing folder (Provo Craft); Lace Edge punch, Snowflake punch (Martha Stewart); Word Window punch (SU!); Ghost Shape Snowflake (Heidi Swapp); Poinsettia (Prima); Gemstone (Hero Arts); Icicle Stickles (Ranger); Sparkle Fibers (Colorsnap); sponge, dimensionals

Thursday, January 1, 2009

New Year, New Stamps!!

Happy New Year, everyone! I hope last night's celebrations were fun and safe! Today begins a new year and a weekend of previews! There will be several new sets released Monday, January 5 at All That Scraps. Today's preview is of two sets by AmyR Stamps, Wedding and Love Sentiments.

I paper pieced the wedding dress (from the Wedding set) with white cardstock that I embossed with the Swiss Dots folder. I added Stickles to the dress layers for a little sparkle. The sentiment is from Love Sentiments -- there are SO many sentiments in this set!

I'll have a preview tomorrow of Diane Zechman's Cookie Crumbs stamps. Be ready for some snowy fun! :) Thanks so much for stopping by today!

Have a great New Year's Day!
Christina

Stamps: Wedding, Love Sentiments (AmyR Stamps) Ink: Momento Rich Cocoa (Tsukineko) Cardstock: So Saffron, Chocolate Chip, white Paper: Sugared 6x6 pad (BasicGrey) Other: Cuttlebug, Swiss Dots embossing folder, With Gratitude folder (Provo Craft); Curved Rectangle Nestabilities (Spellbinders); Stardust Stickles (Ranger); hydrangea flowers (Prima); Button Bouquet (SU!); pink dotted organdy ribbon (May Arts)