Simply Stampin' Up! - Edition 3

Hey there stampers! It's Thursday and you know what that means here - yep, only one more day until the weekend! WooHoo!

Yes, that's true, but it's also time for another edition of Simply Stampin' Up!. You know, I take a project from a paper crafting publication and re-create it using all SU! supplies.

Here's my card for this week:

I call this the afghan card because it reminds me of an afghan we used to have on our couch when I was growing up. My Dad and I used to curl up under that afghan every Sunday and watch the Redskins games together. That's where my love of football came from and my love of a good Sunday afternoon nap!

And here's my card next to the magazine photo:

You might be able to see that the magazine card was meant as a Father's Day card, but as with most designs, you can change the sentiment to fit what you need. The wavy layers on their card are layers of cardstock, but I knew the perfect way to "faux" it!
Want to go step by step? Ok, let's get started!

Layer 1: My card base is Pumpkin Pie Cardstock cut at 4 1/4" x 11", folded in half to make a 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" card.

Layer 2: This is a combination of Whisper White Cardstock and a piece of Greenhouse Gala Designer Paper. (Today is the LAST day to get this Designer Paper, so don't miss it if you want some!) This design is one that I haven't used much this past year, but isn't it perfect for this card? Yep, I thought so too!

I took a 4" x 4" piece of the Designer Paper and trimmed along the bottom using my Paper Snips, following the pattern on the paper.

Once that was trimmed off, I used a small bit of Dotto Temporary Adhesive to attach the Designer paper to the card base. I placed the lowest points of the cut Designer paper along the bottom edge of the card base and trimmed with my Paper Snips, following the pattern.
I removed the Designer Paper from the Card Base and erased the Dotto with my Adhesive Eraser.

Then I took a 4" x 2 1/2" piece of Whisper White Cardstock and put a small bit of Dotto Temporary Adhesive on the front, right in the middle. I laid my trimmed piece of Designer Paper on the Whisper White Cardstock, taking care to place the points of the cut line along the bottom line of the white piece.

I used my Paper Snips once again and trimmed the Whisper White Cardstock to match the cut line of the Designer Paper.
(Even though the width of each stripe in the paper is different, the up and down lines are the same, so cutting it this way gave me a perfectly cut, matching layers for this card. Keep reading, you'll see!)
I removed the Designer Paper from the White Cardstock and erased the Dotto.

**TD Tip: Dotto Temporary Adhesive is perfect for times when you need to hold something in place for just a short time. I use less than a 1/2 inch, just enough to hold the piece. It comes off easily with the Adhesive Eraser. You can simply rub it off, but I've learned not to do that, because more often than not, I have ink or something on my hands and it leaves a mark. Stick with the Adhesive Eraser and you'll always have great results.

Ok, let's put the card together!

I took the Designer Paper layer and added SNAIL Adhesive to the back. It was placed on the card base, shifted up a bit to allow a bit of the cut cardstock base to show at the bottom.

Before adding the Whisper White layer, I did my stamping. The greeting is from the Word Play stamp set and I colored it with my Stampin' Write Markers - Early Espresso and Pumpkin Pie.
I then added SNAIL Adhesive to the back and layered it on top of the Designer Paper, taking care to leave an 1/8"border across the top of the card. See how the bottom cut edge matches the Designer Paper? Yep, no matter which stripe you put it on, the lines match up!

So, how did I do the stitching?
The magazine card was actually stitched with some kind of twine - not SU! Hemp Twine. I decided to "faux" it and used the Soft Suede Stampin' Write Marker to draw on my stitches.

Layer 3: How about that star? Easy-peasy!
I took a 3" x 3" piece of cardboard backer from a pad of Grid Paper (always save your cardboard!) and glued on a coordinating piece of Greenhouse Gala Designer Paper with Tombow Adhesive.
Next, I pulled out my Stars #2 Die for my Big Shot and cut the star with that. See, I told you it was easy!
Listen, why spend a ton of money purchasing expensive embellishments from a craft store when you can make your own, CUSTOM ones that completely match your project? And for pennies!
A one time investment in a Big Shot and dies that you like will save you so much $$$ over time and you can make exactly what you want, when you want it. Makes total sense to me!

So, to finish it off, I took a Button from the Brights Collection and threaded it with a piece of Hemp Twine, knotting it off on top. I trimmed off the ends and used a Mini Glue Dot or two to add it to the middle of my custom made star. The star was added to the card front with more Mini Glue Dots and what do you know? There's your card!

This card really grabbed me because of the pattern - I knew I could use that Greenhouse Gala paper to re-create it and I think it turned out pretty cool! Now you be the judge - do you like it too? I'd love to hear from you!

If you want to recreate this card on your own, you now have the directions, you just need the supplies. Everything that I used can be found in my ONLINE STORE.
It's open 24/7 so you can shop anytime that's convenient for you. I love being able to do that, don't you?
I've included a handy shopping list for you at the bottom of this post. That makes it even easier!
Don't forget though - if you want the Designer Paper, you need to order before Midnight Tonight! As of this morning, it was still available, but with limited supplies it may sell out, so don't wait long.

Happy Stamping!
~~Robin

Stampin' Supplies:

105117 - Pumpkin Pie Cardstock
100730 - Whisper White Cardstock
117167 - Greenhouse Gala Designer Paper
119680 - Early Espresso Stampin' Write Marker
105115 - Pumpkin Pie Stampin' Write Marker
120973 - Soft Suede Stampin' Write Marker
120651 - Word Play Stamp Set(Clear Mount)
103579 - Paper Snips
103305 - Dotto Temporary Adhesive
104332 - SNAIL Adhesive
110755 - Tombow Multi Adhesive
103684 - Adhesive Eraser
103683 - Mini Glue Dots
119747 - Brights Button Collection
100982 - Hemp Twine
113439 - Big Shot
113461 - Stars #2 Die

Place your orders at this link here: Robin's Online Store
Click the SHOP NOW button at the top right!

Reminder! $2 Cards Night and Pre-Sale Clearance Event!

Hey Stampers!
Tomorrow night - my home and studio - Clearance Sale and $2 cards night!
You can come to the sale without an RSVP, but you MUST RSVP if you are stamping! I need to know how much cardstock and ribbon to have cut for you!
Plus, the stamps you will be stamping with will be available for reserve - so first to speak up, gets the hold!

Here's a few photos of some of the supplies in my sale:

Need Ink Pads, Markers or Re-inkers? These are all retired colors and I have Craft as well as Classic. Get then while you can!

Yes, I have over 150 stamp sets for sale!

Retired Cardstock colors running low? Yep, I have many packs still left - priced to go home with YOU!
Need Wheels? There's probably 25 in that basket there!

Now I know you want to come over and check it out - if you are local and not working with another demonstrator, I'd love to have you! If you aren't local, I'll be posting the remains on my blog for sale in the coming days.
(All retiring items from the current catalog are available for reserve only on Thursday. You can make a deposit of 1/2 and arrange for pick up on the 1st or after. Per SU! rules, I cannot sell current merchandise until it's retired! But at least you get first dibs!)
Cash or Check only for both the sale and card making!

Here's the reminder with all the details about tomorrow night! Hope to see you here!

Just wanted to share the announcement that I made to my clients who subscribe to my e-mail newsletter! If you live in the area, are not currently working with another SU! Demonstrator and want to come stamp and shop, I'd love to meet you!



Here's the scoop!

Come to my First Ever $2 Cards Night!
Thursday, June 30th
6 pm - 9:30 pm

You'll be able to stamp all the cards you can for just $2 each!
(cash or check only)

These simple, easy but creative designs will be perfect for beginners and seasoned stampers alike. The BEST part - you'll have time to make many, AND fill your card box economically!

What could be better? I'm so glad you asked!

How about YOUR chance to shop my Pre-Sale Event?

Each year, I hold a Clearance Sale to usher out the old so I can bring in the NEW!

I'll have all my Retiring/Retired products out and priced to go! You won't want to miss this chance to snatch up a bargain and add it to your stampin' stash! I have so much to choose from - stamps, paper, ribbon, and many more awesome items. You'll have to see it to believe it!

(Cash or check only for this sale - all items on the current retiring list can be reserved with a deposit that night, but cannot be picked up until July 1st per SU! rules. BUT you get first dibs!)

Can it get even better? Why, YES, it can!

I'll be offering a special discount on ALL Stampin' Up! orders placed that night - so if you don't find what you want on the retiring tables, you can place your order and still SAVE!

So, how do you attend?

Simple - send me an e-mail at stampwithrobin@yahoo.com to RSVP. Tell me approximately how many cards you plan to make that night and if you are bringing a guest.

You can also RSVP to me on Facebook. Simply Friend me - Robin Merriman or become a fan of my Page - Trinity Design Studio - and send me a message or wall post! It's that easy!

I hope you are excited about this fun event! I can't wait to see you and stamp with you!

Stamped blessings,
Robin

Twice as Nice!

Quick and easy post for you today!

I'm busy, busy, busy getting ready for my $2 Cards Night and CLEARANCE SALE EVENT!
It's tomorrow from 6 pm - 9:30 pm here in the Stampin' Studio - YOU won't want to miss it! I have a TON of SU! supplies all priced to go home with YOU! Bring your cash or your checkbooks because I can't take credit cards for this sale or for the $2 Card making.
If you are a long distance client - I'll be posting photos in the gallery on my sidebar of all that is left over and we can arrange pick-up or shipping for you!
Don't worry - there's plenty! I've cleaned HOUSE!

So - two cards for you today - two versions of the same idea!
Here's the first:

And here's the second:

I created these a while back when the Four Frames stamp set was on Sneak Peek. In just two short days, YOU can purchase it from the NEW Idea Book and Catalog! Yeah!

The color palette here is Very Vanilla, Peach Parfait and Pear Pizzazz. I used the swirl stamp from Elements of Style on the background and on the envelopes.
The ribbons are Pear Pizzazz Twill on the first card and Pear Pizzazz Seam Binding on the second. Stampin' Dimensionals to pop up layers and punches and that's pretty much it. Two simple, similar cards!

Have a great day everyone and I hope to see you tomorrow night!
~~Robin

Patriotic Pennants Card and Alaska!

If you're reading this post in the morning, then I'm most likely headed north to the York, PA area for the day. I'm going with Emma and my friend Michelle for a day that will include stamping, eating and shopping! Don't know what could be better - do you? So, because I'm on the road, I had to schedule this post so you didn't miss your creative fix today. See how I take care of you? Yeah, I know, it's the little things.....

I also realized that I haven't posted a single photo of our Stampin' Up! Alaska Cruise. But honestly, did you miss that? Well in case you did, here's a few to start with.

This photo was taken from the wooden bridge in Ketchikan - also known as Creek St. Guess this is the creek. But isn't it gorgeous? It actually reminded me of some of the scenery in the Shenandoah Valley here in Virginia and made me a little homesick. On our trip, I wore my Dad's Army dog tags every day. He always wanted to visit Alaska and I figured I could take him with me in a way. We set sail exactly one month from the day he died and my birthday on the cruise was one month from his funeral. I did try not to think of it, but how do you just block that out? Our trip was wonderful, truly, but was very bittersweet for me. So seeing this creek and the mossy bank and the trees and rocks, made me miss home and my Dad even more, but it really was beautiful and I'm glad we got to see it.

This photo of Whale Park was one that I HAD to take. The lovely, BLOOMING flowers really took me by surprise. I really didn't expect to see such bright, verdant colors at this time of year in Alaska. I think this setting looks like it could be in any American city in the Spring. More reminders of home for me - when we left Virginia, Spring was in full force and the flowers were amazing. It was great to see some of that there too.

This next picture needs some explaining.
We went into an independent bookstore in Ketchikan and spent about an hour nosing around and finding cool things. Well, Mark called out to me and said to come over to him. When I got there, he was holding this book with a very wry look on his face. (I know he was thinking of our dog, Susie.)
Yeah, I really did have to take that picture. The eye roll was all his - my husband the comedian!

Last picture for today - here's Me, Mark and Emma on the Creek St. Bridge.
I love my family.

So, enough from Alaska today - I promise to show you some more soon, ok?

This card is one that I cased from Stampin' Connection - a demonstrator only website that is jam-packed with ideas! The original design was by Linda Pittman and I was thrilled to discover such a great design! I did tweak it a bit, but the basic idea is cased.

This card is showcasing the New Pennant Builder Punch and the Perfect Pennants stamp set. Just 3 more days and you can order them! Are you getting excited? I am! You NEED that new catalog in your hands! I think I know someone who can help you out with that.......

Anyway, I stamped the greeting with the Oval All stamp set and punched it out with the Scalloped Oval Punch. The Whisper White layer was run through the Big Shot with the Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder. The pennants were punched and layered then strung on a piece of Whisper White Baker's Twine. I wrapped the ends around two Rhinestone Fire Squares Brads to hang the pennant banner on the card.
At my June Downline Team meeting, everyone got to make this card and they all had fun with it! The new products were a big hit which tells me that you are going to love them too!

Have a great day everyone!
Stamped blessings,
~~Robin

Can't Resist Poppy Parade!

Happy Monday Stampers!
How was your weekend? Ours was simply beautiful - perfect Summer weather, soft serve ice cream, meals on the deck, time spent with friends, I even got to take a nap in one of the deck chairs. How great is that? (Well, I'd actually gone out to read for a bit and ended up with my Kindle laying on my chest!) Yep, a perfect Summer weekend!

So today I woke up to grey skies and a little drizzle - bleech! Maybe looking at this card will make me feel better! LOL!
Here, take a look:

Don't you just love those Summer colors? Yeah, Poppy Parade and Wild Wasabi - so yummy together!
Here's the full card front:

When I was on the SU! Alaska cruise last month, I saw a card on one of the display boards that used this fun fold and I knew I'd have to recreate it.
My card base is Poppy Parade, and the open side of the card is actually on the left. The front panel is Whisper White and I ran it through the Big Shot with my Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder.
The fold over piece is made with more Whisper White cardstock and my Scallop Square Die for the Big Shot. Once I cut out the square, I counted off five scallops and made my fold there.

I stamped the larger side with the leaf/stem stamp from the Fabulous Florets Stamp Set in Versamark ink, embossing with Clear Embossing Powder and my Heat Tool. I then used a Sponge Dauber with Wild Wasabi Classic Ink and rubbed color all over and around the image. I love this technique - called Emboss Resist - it's like watching a stamping magic show! The beautiful image appears with just a touch of color! The embossed area "resists" the ink so you get a lovely shadowy image with the color that appears around it. Gorgeous!

**TD Tip - Be sure to wipe off the embossed area with a piece of tissue or paper towel to remove any excess ink from the "resist" area.

Next, the short side of this piece of cardstock was then attached to the back of the open side of the card with Tombow Multi-Adhesive.

The Poppy Parade flower was stamped on a scrap piece of Whisper White cardstock with more Versamark ink, embossed with Clear Embossing Powder and colored with Poppy Parade Classic Ink and a Sponge Dauber. I trimmed out the flower, leaving a bit of a border around the edge, with my Paper Snips. I popped it up over the stem with Stampin' Dimensionals.

Here's a look at the card standing open:

Cool huh?! The greeting was stamped using the Short and Sweet Stamp Set - another workhorse in my stamp cabinet - in Poppy Parade Classic Ink. I punched it out with the now SOLD OUT Small Oval Punch. Another reason to check that retiring Accessories List. Stuff sells out pretty quickly and now you only have four days to get the things you want from it!
It's layered on a piece of Poppy Parade punched out with the Large Oval Punch and popped up on a Stampin' Dimensional. I positioned the dimensional under the right side of the greeting, adhering it in just the right place so the folded Scallop Square would slip under it and stay in place when closed.

As a final accent, I threaded a Bitty Button with Whisper White Baker's Twine and tied it in a bow. It's adhered with Mini Glue Dots to the front of the greeting.

I really, really love this card and I hope you do as well. My stamp classes earlier this month all got to make it and they thought it was so fun to do! You can recreate it at home too - just shop in my Online Store for all the supplies you'll need. You can substitute the Large Oval Punch for the Small Oval, and the Scalloped Oval for the Large Oval as I've used them here.
There's a complete supply list for you below to make your shopping easy on my Website. Simply type in the Item # you want in the Search block and each product you need will come up so you can add it to your cart.

Have a great Monday everyone - go stamp something fun!
~~Robin

Stampin' Supplies

119794 - Poppy Parade Cardstock
100730 - Whisper White Cardstock
119782 - Poppy Parade Classic Ink
109014 - Wild Wasabi Classic Ink
102283 - Versamark Ink
123027 - Fabulous Florets Stamp Set Clear Mount
115060 - Short and Sweet Stamp Set
102892 - Sponge Daubers
118761 - Bitty Buttons
124262 - Whisper White Baker's Twine
119855 - Large Oval Punch
119856 - Scalloped Oval Punch
103683 - Mini Glue Dots
104430 - Stampin' Dimensionals
110755 - Tombow Multi Adhesive
113439 - Big Shot Die Cut Machine
115950 - Scalloped Square Die
117335 - Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder

Place your order at this link here: Robin's Online Store
Simply click the SHOP NOW Button at the top right!

I {Heart} America!

Since we're headed towards the most patriotic of days - July 4th, our Independence day - I thought it was time to showcase the awesome A La Carte stamp from the Summer Mini - Land of the Free.

When I saw this stamp, I knew immediately that it would be on my first order from that catalog. I have a deep, deep love for America and all she stands for. Any chance I get to wave my flag, I do it, so this little stamp with the precious words of our beloved National Anthem just screamed to be part of my collection.

Here's the card I designed with it:

We made this at Stampin' Fools the other night - the head fool, Laura, has a daughter serving in the Navy and I knew she'd jump at the chance to have something special to send her.

It's really an easy cards to assemble, lots of layering, but nothing complicated there! The card base is Night of Navy, the focal panel and the mats are Crumb Cake and I used a piece of the Nautical Expedition Designer Paper for the side panel.

The focal image was stamped using the Stamp-a-ma-Jig and we placed it high on the panel so the little red glitter heart could be placed right under the "home of the BRAVE." We used some Red Glimmer Paper for the heart and the Small Heart Punch. The image itself was markered with Night of Navy and Cherry Cobbler Stampin' Write markers.

Now, take a look at that background:

See the stars? We used the retiring Large Star Punch and punched six stars from Night of Navy cardstock. (This punch has now sold out, but you can substitute the Stars #2 Die and your Big Shot.) They were attached to the card base with Tombow Multi-Adhesive. We then trimmed off the overhanging edges with Paper Snips. I love this subtle, textured background and it's so easy to do with any punch shape! If you want that star punch though, you'd better get movin' - it's gone, gone, gone in just 5 short days!

All the panels were popped up with Stampin' Dimensionals and the side panel was finished off with a piece of Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding. I frayed the ends because it reminds me of the flag that flew over Fort McHenry during the war of 1812. That's when Francis Scott Key wrote our National Anthem, while imprisoned on a British ship. He was able to see this oversize American Flag through the haze of the fighting and was inspired to write the poem that eventually became our treasured song. You can see that flag even today - it's hanging in the Museum of American History which is part of the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. We're so fortunate to live so close to our Nation's Capital for many reasons, but I confess, being able to easily visit our historic sites is one of my favorites.

So, I hope you liked the card - the Stampin' Fools loved it and I know it's gonna show up in a few of their loved ones mailboxes for this 4th of July! If you want to recreate it, I've included a complete supply list for you below. You can shop for all of those items in my Online Store 24/7. So convenient for you~!

Stamped Blessings,
~~Robin

Stampin' Supplies:

123100 - Land of the Free Stamp
100867 - Night of Navy Cardstock
120953 - Crumb Cake Cardstock
122343 - Nautical Expedition Designer Paper
100069 - Night of Navy Stampin' Write Marker
119681 - Cherry Cobbler Stampin' Write Marker
120992 - Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding
121790 - Red Glimmer Paper
117193 - Small Heart Punch
113461 - Stars #2 Die
113439 - Big Shot
104430 - Stampin' Dimensionals
110755 - Tombow Multi-Adhesive

Place your order at this link here: Robin's Online Store
Click the SHOP NOW button at the top right!

CAS Top Note Easel Card

Whew! It's finally Friday!
What a week it's been - and not likely to slow down anytime soon. But the good news is that it's all good stuff keeping me busy! I'm having so much fun in the studio stamp, stamp, stamping away! My creative genes are working overtime getting ready for my $2 Card Making Night next Thursday AND working on my Convention Swaps AND Baby Shower invitations for a client. Does it make you tired just reading it all? Ha!

So, with all that stuff running through your head now, lemme show ya a fun, clean and simple card. I held my Trinity Design Stampers Team Meeting last Saturday and this was my card for our team swap.

Oooooh, yeah - it's a SNEAK Peek too!

I used my Big Shot Top Note Die - THE tried and true and classic die for our Big Shots - to create this fun easel card. There's a new stamp set coming out in just 6 short days called My Friend. I LOVE this floral/vine solid image in the set. I've made a bunch of samples with it and you'll be seeing it over the coming weeks a lot!

I inked the stamp with new Lucky Limeade Classic Ink and then used my Sponge Dauber to add the new Island Indigo Classic Ink around the edges. Kind of like the Rock-n-Roll Technique, but a little more controlled with the Sponge Dauber. The inked image was stamped on a full Top Note cut out of Whisper White cardstock.

For the greeting, I used a Whisper White scrap and cut out a banner with my Petal Cone Die for the Big Shot. Love that this die allows us to cut banners! Once I cut it out, I stamped the My Friend greeting on it with more Island Indigo Classic Ink. I used my Bone Folder to curl and furl it and then added the Rhinestone Circle Ice Brad to the end. It's attached to the card front with Mini Glue Dots.

One final touch - I stamped the little sparkle circle image in Island Indigo on the lower right corner to add a little interest to this sweet note card.

I love this card - it's yet another example that something lovely doesn't need to be something complicated!

Want to recreate it or something like at your house? Cool! I've put the complete supply list at the bottom of this post! Some of the items aren't available until July 1st, but that's only 7 days! Can you stand it? :)
You can place your order at my Online Store anytime, 24/7.

Thanks for stopping by today - have a fabulous weekend!
~~Robin

Stampin' Supplies:

100730 - Whisper White Cardstock
(July 1st) 122587 - My Friend Stamp Set (Clear Mount)
(July 1st) 122935 - Lucky Limeade Classic Ink Pad
(July 1st) 122937 - Island Indigo Classic Ink Pad
102892 - Sponge Daubers
109111 - Rhinestone Circle Ice Brads
110755 - Tombow Multi-Adhesive
103683 - Mini Glue Dots
102300 - Bone Folder
113439 - Big Shot Die Cut Machine
113463 - Top Note Die
121810 - Petal Cone Die

Place your order at this link: Robin's Online Store
Click the SHOP NOW button at the top right!

Simply Stampin' Up! - Edition 2

Welcome to Thursday stampers and another edition of Simply Stampin' Up!.

Since the response I got last week to this new blog feature was enthusiastic, I guess I'll keep doing it! Remember, each week I'll be taking a project from a crafting magazine or publication that's caught my eye and re-create it using ALL SU! products.

Here's this week's creation:

Very cool, very retro, VERY outside my stamping box! But, that's what stamping should be - stretching your skills and renewing your creativity.

Here's my card next to the magazine photo:

None of the products used on the magazine card were Stampin' Up!, but I knew this card would be a fun way to showcase some of our great supplies! It's obviously a One-Layer card, so it's pretty simple to build. Let's get started!

Layer 1: Whisper White cardstock cut at 5 1/2" x 8 1/2", folded in half to make my card base. I used my Corner Rounder Punch on all four corners to mimic the card in the magazine.

The stamping on the card base was done with the Extreme Elements Stamp Set. I took the dotted image and inked it up with Black Staz-On, stamping it 3 times across the card base. I did vary the positioning a bit so it looks random.

Embellishments: I started by choosing my colors to be as close as possible to the photo. Regal Rose and Melon Mambo proved to be the best match.
The two large punched circles came from the 1 3/4" Circle Punch - one in Regal Rose, one in Basic Black.
The two smaller punched circles are in Whisper White. One is done with the 1 1/4" Circle Punch and the other with the 1" Circle Punch.
All the circles are adhered to the card front with Tombow Multi-Adhesive.

Next, I tried to find a greeting that would be nice and bold like the one in the photo. I settled on the "Thanks a Million" from the Word Play Stamp Set.
I inked the 'Million' with a Melon Mambo Stampin' Write Marker and stamped it on a scrap piece of Whisper White. It was closely trimmed out with my Paper Snips.
**TD Tip - Stampin' Up!'s Paper Snips are my FAVORITE tool for precision cutting. I love that the fine tip gets in very tiny areas and enables you to cut out intricate images with ease. I know that sounds like a commercial, but over the years, I've tried other scissors with disappointing results. You'll never be disappointed with the Paper Snips and I think every stamper should have a pair in their stampin' tool box.**

I popped up the 'Million' on Stampin' Dimensionals and added it to the card front.

For the 'Thanks a' part of the greeting, I inked it up with Black Staz-On and again, stamped it on a scrap piece of Whisper White. Then I simply trimmed it out at an angled design, freehand. To get the black edge, I used my Basic Black Stampin' Write Marker and ran the brush tip around the outside edge. Easy!
This part of the greeting was adhered with more Tombow.

The star came next. For this, i used the argyle stamp from the Grunge Rock Stamp Set and inked it in Melon Mambo Classic Ink. I stamped it on another scrap of Whisper White and used my Big Shot and the Stars #2 Die to cut it out. It's the 2nd largest star on the die.
Once it was cut out, I ran the Melon Mambo Stampin' Write Marker around the edge to add a pink border. It was popped up on another Stampin' Dimensional and added to the card front.

Last came the buttons. All three Basic Black Buttons came from the Neutrals Collection. I added Whisper White Bakers Twine to the centers and trimmed off the ends. All of the buttons were adhered using Mini Glue Dots and that's it - another finished card!

I deliberately chose this card from the magazine because it's something that I would NOT have created on my own. But now that I've done mine with Stampin' Up! products - I love how fun and vibrant it is! It really makes me smile, and that's worth a million to me!

If you want to recreate this card on your own, you now have the directions, you just need the supplies. Everything that I used can be found in my ONLINE STORE.
It's open 24/7 so you can shop anytime that's convenient for you. I love being able to do that, don't you?
I've included a handy shopping list for you at the bottom of this post. That makes it even easier!

Happy Stamping!
~~Robin

Supply List:

100730 - Whisper White Cardstock
105130 - Regal Rose Cardstock
121045 - Basic Black Cardstock
101406 - Black Staz-On Ink Pad
100082 - Basic Black Stampin' Write Marker
115656 - Melon Mambo Classic Ink Pad
121074 - Melon Mambo Stampin' Write Marker
115181 - Extreme Elements Stamp Set
120555 - Grunge Rock Stamp Set (Clear Mount)
120651 - Word Play Stamp Set (Clear Mount)
119871- Corner Rounder Punch
119868 - 1" Circle Punch
119861 - 1 1/4" Circle Punch
119850 - 1 3/4" Circle Punch
119743 - Neutrals Buttons
124262 - Whisper White Bakers Twine
113439 - Big Shot
113461 - Stars #2 Die
104430 - Stampin' Dimensionals
110755 - Tombow Multi-Adhesive
103683 - Mini Glue Dots

Place your order at this link: Robin's Online Store
Click the SHOP NOW button at the top right!

Vintage Pink (aka Serendipity)

Serendipity as defined on dictionary.com is as follows: an aptitude for making desirable discoveries by accident.
Well, if that's the case, then this accident became VERY desirable in the end!

Remember this post last Thursday? Simply Stampin' Up! Edition 1

Let's just say that the end result card wasn't the first attempt. I KNOW! My stampers here think I never make mistakes, but I just gotta tell ya - one more time - that if I didn't make mistakes, I'd never grow in my stamping.
Have you ever heard this quote?:
"Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. ART is knowing which ones to keep."

So let's see if you think this mistake constitutes ART!

If you remember, or took a peek at last Thursday's card, you know that there was a pretty spray of flowers at the bottom right of the front panel. Well, they started off pretty on this card front too, but since I forgot that Basic Gray ink IS NOT water resistant, the edges of the flowers all ran together when I used my Aqua Painter to color them in. Yeah, not smart, huh?

But wait! I keep a "Serendipity Pile" on my stamp counter where all my salvageable mistakes and extra pieces go - you never know when something in that pile will send inspiration flowing again. So the other day, I decided to rescue this poor forlorn piece of cardstock and try to make a silk purse out of a sows ear. (If you're not from the South, you may not get that reference, but it's the same as trash to treasure - see, now you can say you learned something even if it's not stamping related! LOL!)

In reviving this background, I decided to add to the collage look and pulled out the Notably Ornate Stamp set. I inked up that gorgeous frame stamp with Basic Gray, stamped off one time and added a partial image to the cardstock. Next, I inked up the dove image in Pink Pirouette and just had him flying up from the frame corner. A few tiny Basic Pearls added to the frame gave it a little pizazz, so I moved on to covering up the muddied corner.

There really was no hope for rescuing the stamping, so I took out my 1 3/4" Scallop Circle Punch and punched 4 pieces of the First Edition Specialty Designer Paper. I sponged the edges of all the pieces with Crumb Cake Classic Ink then crumpled them all up into little balls of paper. I smoothed them out a bit and added a Pink Pirouette 1" Circle to the center. After punching a hole with my Paper Piercer, I added an Antique Brad to the center - and Voila! - you have a shabby chic flower!

So, that flower covered the worst of the muddy stamping - but I still needed to cover a little more, so what better way than to add a greeting?

I stamped the label image from Notably Ornate on Very Vanilla with Crumb Cake Classic Ink then punched it out with the 2" x 1 3/8" Oval Punch. I topped it with a Pink Pirouette punch piece from the Modern Label Punch then added my greeting. That came from the You're a Gem Stamp Set and I punched it out with the 3/4" x 15/16" Oval Punch. It was adhered to the other punch layers with a Stampin' Dimensional and the whole thing was added to the card front with more dimensionals, just like the flower. Two Basic Pearls were added to the pink punch piece for a little more bling.
In case you couldn't tell, everything on the card was sponged with Crumb Cake Classic Ink to make it look more vintage.

Once I had the card front finished, I decided to add a layer of Pink Pirouette cardstock behind it, then the whole thing was added to a card base of Naturals Ivory Cardstock with Stampin' Dimensionals.

So, it's pretty over the top - hey I never said rescuing a card would be simple! I used a LOT of supplies, but I sure do like the end result! Sometimes you just need to challenge yourself to see where your imagination can take you and what better place to start than with something that was destined for the trash pile on another day? You can't ruin it at this point, so why not just go for it?!

Feelin' adventurous? Need some supplies? Ok then, you can get all you need to recreate this card by visiting my Online Store. The supply list is below, so check it out and let me know how it goes!

Happy Stamping!
~~Robin

Stampin' Supplies

101849 - Naturals Ivory Cardstock
111351 - Pink Pirouette Cardstock
101650 - Very Vanilla Cardstock
121030 - Crumb Cake Classic Ink
111838 - Pink Pirouette Classic Ink
109120 - Basic Gray Classic Ink
120561 - Notably Ornate Stamp Set
109521 - En Francais Stamp Set
You're A Gem Stamp Set (returning to the catalog on July 1st!)
120045 - Elements of Style Stamp Set
119247 - Basic Pearls (self adhesive)
117273 - Antique Brads
119854 - 1 3/4" Scallop Circle Punch
119868 - 1" Circle Punch
119849 - Modern Label Punch
119859 - 2" x 1 3/8" Oval Punch
120908 - 3/4" x 15/16" Oval Punch
121878 - First Edition Specialty Designer Series Paper
104430 - Stampin' Dimensionals
101610 - Stamping Sponge

Visit this Link to purchase your supplies: Robin's Online Store
Click the Shop Now Button at the top right of the page!

Summer Friend

Keepin' it simple for you guys today!

I created this VERY easy card for my stamp camps this month - I just had to use that awesome greeting from All Holidays at least one more time before it goes bye-bye at the end of June.

Hey! That's just 9 DAYS! Ya'll need to get a move on before that retiring list becomes the RETIRED list.

So, here's the card:

Don't you just love those bright Summer colors? Yeah, me too. And since it's gray and rainy again here today, this is like looking at one of those light boxes they use for getting your mood up. We all need bright and fun sometimes!

This card is so easy, I don't even need to 'splain it to you Lucy. But I've put a supply list at the bottom of this post so you can easily purchase what you need to recreate it at home. The two things that are retiring on this card are the stamp set All Holidays - which has the focal greeting stamp in it; and the Pumpkin Pie 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon. In fact ALL the 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon is retiring - so really peeps, get it while you still can.

Have a great day everyone - I hope the sun's shining where you are!
~~Robin

Stampin' Supplies:

108641 - Wild Wasabi Cardstock
105117 - Pumpkin Pie Cardstock
100730 - Whisper White Cardstock
122342 - Beyond the Garden Designer Series Paper
114916 - All Holidays Stamp Set
122280 - Flower Fest Stamp Set (Clear Mount)
111837 - Pacific Point Classic Ink
105216 - Pumpkin Pie Classic Ink
119677 - Daffodil Delight Stampin' Write Marker
119848 - Butterfly Punch
102023 - Dazzling Diamonds Glitter
100425 - 2 Way Glue Pen
119760 - 5/8" Pumpkin Pie Grosgrain Ribbon
104430 - Stampin' Dimensionals
110755 - Tombow Multi Adhesive

Place your Order at this Link: Robin's Online Store
Click the SHOP NOW button at the top right.

Subdued Monday

Well, today is Emma's first official day of Summer Vacation and she's not really looking forward to it. You see, I screwed up and scheduled a dentist appointment today - and not just any dentist appointment, but she's getting a cavity filled. Yukk! SO not fun for her. And to top it off, it's raining here today. A lot. So that means no pool this afternoon. Guess I'll be buying her a milkshake somewhere to make up for it. If she can drink it that is............ I'm certainly not earning Mother of the year award today! Oh well, maybe a little stamping therapy later will at least help me feel better! LOL!

The card I'm sharing today is my version of several cards I'd seen recently online and I liked the idea of it so much, I decided to do one too.
I don't know about you, but I have a hard time making cards for solemn occasions. There are many times I want and NEED to send them, but it's so much easier to create something bright and fun or soft and sweet.

Let's take a look at what I came up with:

I really like this card because it sets the right tone for the message I'm trying to send. That's been key for me when I sit down to create a card, even if it's not an easy occasion. I think of the person and the circumstance and try to tailor both my colors and design for them. This one's headed out to a friend in our church who's been having a difficult time. It suits them and the sentiment is just what I needed to say.

The card is a pretty easy one. The card base is Crumb Cake cardstock. I ran the card front through the Big Shot with the Framed Tulips Embossing Folder then sponged Crumb Cake Classic Ink all over the embossing to emphasize the raised areas.

The focal layer is stamped on Naturals Ivory Cardstock and matted on Soft Suede cardstock. I sponged both of those layers with Crumb Cake Classic Ink as well. The stamping was done with Soft Suede Classic Ink and I used the Just Believe Stamp Set for the design. The greeting comes from the Thoughts and Prayers Stamp Set. These cardstock layers were adhered to the card front with Stampin' Dimensionals. For a final touch, I added some self-adhesive Pearls to a couple of the flower centers.

So there ya go, a toned down card for a dreary, rainy Monday. Hmmm......maybe I should have posted something cheerier! Ok, tomorrow. Tomorrow I'll post something bright and cheerful, so come back to see.

Hey, if you need the supplies to make cards like this one, you can visit my Stampin Up! Online Store anytime, 24/7. Just click here: Robin's Online Store and click the SHOP NOW button at the top right. I've got a supply list for you below.

Have a great day everyone!
~~Robin

Suppies used on this Card:

120953 - Crumb Cake Cardstock
115318 - Soft Suede Cardstock
101849 - Naturals Ivory Cardstock
121030 - Crumb Cake Classic Ink
115657 - Soft Suede Classic Ink
120453 - Just Believe Stamp Set (Clear Mount)
113252 - Thoughts and Prayers Stamp Set (Wood Mount)
101610 - Stamping Sponge
119247 - Basic Pearls Jewel Accents (self-adhesive)
104430 - Stampin' Dimensionals
110755 - Tombow Multi-Adhesive
113439 - Big Shot
121809 - Framed Tulips Embossing Folder

Sunshine Flowers - A CAS Card

I love CAS (Clean and Simple) cards.

What I really love is that it is truly possible to create something beautiful with just a few supplies. This is great news for the beginning stamper or the stamper on a budget. Hmmm...do you know any stampers who actually STICK to their budget? Yeah, me either!

I'm actually showing you a stepped up version of this card - it could easily be created without the circle elements just by stamping the greeting on the card front under the shadow block.

I created this card in May for my stamp classes and shared it on the Alaska Cruise as well. It uses Poppy Parade, Whisper White and a scrap of Tangerine Tango cardstock.

To create the main layer, I took one of my Clear Blocks (Block D) and put ink directly on the block. This card uses So Saffron Classic Ink. Once the block was inked, I simply placed it directly on the Whisper White cardstock where I wanted the "shadow" to show.

Next, I used my Sponge Daubers to ink up the large flower stamp from the Love and Care stamp set. The center of the flower was done with Tangerine Tango, the petals with Poppy Parade, both Classic Inks. The flower was re-inked between each stamping, but you could create a nice contrast by stamping one more time before re-inking it.

Using my 2 Way Glue Pen and Dazzling Diamonds, I glammed up the flower centers a bit to make them pop.

The greeting is simply paper scraps. And in case you're wondering, NO, I don't save all my scraps!
**TD Tip: My rule of thumb for scraps is nothing smaller than a 2" x 2" or no "strips" less than 1 1/2" wide. Anything not as wide is too difficult to stamp and punch from.

To create this greeting I stamped my image with Tangerine Tango on Whisper White. When I punched it out with the 1" Circle Punch, I punched it with the greeting low in the punch window. This left room for the Rhinestone Brad accent at the top. The greeting layer was adhered to the Tangerine Tango 1 1/4" Circle before I added the brad. The whole thing is adhered to the card front with a Stampin' Dimensional.

Here's a view of the inside of my card:

It's done with a greeting from the ever versatile Curvy Verses Stamp Set. Know what I like best about this stamp set - besides it's variety? It's very hard to stamp it crooked. If you stamp a lot, you know that's a BIG bonus!
You could also add one more flower to the inside of this card, and to the envelope, just for a little more interest.

Thanks for stopping by today - I love it when you visit!
I've put a complete supply list for you at the bottom of this post. Remember, you don't have to do the circle element to still have this be a beautiful card!

Stamped blessings,
~~Robin

Supplies used for this card:
119793 - Poppy Parade Cardstock
100730 - Whisper White Cardstock
111349 - Tangerine Tango Cardstock
123022 - Love and Care Stamp Set (hostess)
114948 - Curvy Verses Stamp Set
119782 - Poppy Parade Classic Ink
111834 - Tangerine Tango Classic Ink
105213 - So Saffron Classic Ink
100425 - 2 Way Glue Pen
102023 - Dazzling Diamonds Glitter
118485 - Clear Block D
104430 - Stampin' Dimensionals
119868 - 1" Circle Punch
119861 - 1 1/4" Circle Punch
109112 - Rhinestone Fire Square Brads

Place your order at this link: Robin's ONLINE STORE
Click the Shop Now button at the top right.

Simply Stampin' Up! - Edition #1

Hey! I'm glad you stopped by the blog today - I'm introducing a new, regular feature and I'm thrilled about the first installment!

One of the things I hear from my clients and demos alike is that they love many of the samples shown in popular paper crafting magazines, but they don't love that Stampin' Up! supplies aren't used with any regularity to make the things that appeal to them. So, I thought it would be kinda fun to do a weekly feature called "Simply Stampin' Up!". I'll be taking a card or other paper crafting design that has caught my eye in a magazine, using other supplies, and re-create it using Stampin' Up! ONLY! Does that sound good to you? I hope so!

Here's my design for this week:

I love these collage type cards and I really loved the one shown on the last page of a magazine that I received in the mail last week.
Here's my card compared with the one in the magazine:

You can also see the inspiration piece the original artist used in the photo. That's something else I love to do - find inspiration in things around me.

So, how did I do today's card?

Layer 1 is the card base. I used Pink Pirouette cardstock, cut at 4 1/4" x 11" to make a Tent style card.

Layer 2 is Very Vanilla cardstock cut at 3 3/4" x 5" giving a bit wider pink border around it from the card base.
I inked up my En Francais background stamp with Pink Pirouette ink and stamped it on the cardstock.
**TD Tip #1 - when using a background or other very large stamp, lay the stamp on your stamping surface with rubber side up. Ink up the stamp then lay your cardstock on the surface. Place a piece of Grid Paper or other paper overtop and smooth over it with your hands. This fully inks the cardstock and keeps your fingers clean in the process.**

Next, I inked up the floral spray stamp from Elements of Style using Basic Gray ink. It's pretty dark, so to achieve the look of the magazine card, I stamped off on my Grid Paper one time to soften the ink. I stamped it in the lower right hand corner on top of the background.
The greeting, from Sincere Salutations, was stamped in the same way with Basic Gray ink stamped off one time.
That piece was sponged along the edges with Crumb Cake ink and a Stamping Sponge.
To color my flowers, I used my Stampin' Pastels and simply colored them in with Pink Pirouette chalk and a sponge tip applicator. Very easy!

Layer 3 is another piece of Very Vanilla cardstock cut at 3 3/4" x 2". I used my Eyelet Border Punch for the bottom edge and then sponged all around this piece with more Crumb Cake ink. Taking my Music Notes Standard Wheel, I inked it up with the Pink Pirouette ink pad and wheeled it across the cardstock three times. I did use my Wheel Guide for straight placement.

At the top left, I used the swirl stamp from the Strength and Hope stamp set. Again, it was stamped in Basic Gray ink and stamped off one time.
This layer was adhered to Layer 2 using Tombow Adhesive, then both layers were adhered to the card base with more Tombow.

For the embellishment, I took a length of Pretty in Pink 3/8" Taffeta Ribbon (which is retiring along with many of the other colors of 3/8" Taffeta!) and tied it around the whole top of the card, finishing with a pretty, floppy bow. My little accent piece is a button from the Neutrals collection that I've inserted an Antique Brad in the center. It's attached to the card with Mini Glue Dots to finish it all up.

This card made me so happy the other night when I was making it - I did a little happy stamper dance around the studio! I think Stampin' Up! makes the most beautiful and versatile products on the market and I love being able to show them like this.

If you want to recreate this card on your own, you now have the directions, you just need the supplies. Everything that I used can be found in my ONLINE STORE. It's open 24/7 so you can shop anytime that's convenient for you. I love being able to do that, don't you?
I've included a handy shopping list for you at the bottom of this post. That makes it even easier!

Happy Stamping today!
~~Robin

Supplies:
111351 - Pink Pirouette Cardstock
101650 - Very Vanilla Cardstock
111838 - Pink Pirouette Classic Ink Pad
109120 - Basic Gray Classic Ink Pad
121030 - Crumb Cake Classic Ink Pad
109521 - En Francais Background Stamp
123660 - Strength and Hope Clear Mount Stamp Set
120327 - Music Notes Wheel
102971 - Standard Wheel Handle
109067 - Pretty in Pink Taffeta Ribbon
119743 - Neutrals Button Collection
117273 - Antique Brads
110755 - Tombow Multi-Adhesive
103683 - Mini Glue Dots
120962 - Stampin' Pastels

Place your order at this Link: Robin's Online Store
Click the SHOP NOW button at the top right!

Lunch on the Deck

This post is SO non-stamping related, but I just had to share.
I've been stamping in the studio all morning and it's been HARD! Because it is an absolutely picture perfect day here today.

Clear blue skies, light breeze, temps around 78 - 80 degrees - just GORGEOUS!
Here, take a look at the view from my back deck:

Beautiful, beautiful day - definitely not one to be stuck inside, even if I WAS stamping!
So, I decided to take my lunch out on the deck today and do a little study in the process.

Lookie -
Ok, so the picture may not LOOK like much, but let me assure you that it TASTES amazing! We went to my Mom's on Sunday for dinner and she made a big batch of homemade Chicken and Dumplings. Oh Yeah! And yours truly got to bring some home to eat this week. Can you say Yumm-O?! See that beautiful FLAT dumpling right there in the center of the bowl? Yep, that one. Well, we have a little family argument between my hubby and I about which type of dumplings are the best. HE says that his Granny's round, biscuit dumplings were the best. In fact, he claims that they are the only TRUE dumpling. Hmmph!

The recipe for this bowl of awesomeness has been in my family since my Great-Grandmother made it up, and lemme tell ya - those FLAT, dough dumplings are the BEST!
I guess since you can't taste it, you'll just have to trust me on that one. Maybe I can get Mom to send me the recipe and I'll post it here. How's that sound? Of course, you are not allowed to make it if you are part of the Round dumpling crowd. That would be just wrong!

Don't you agree Susie?
She looks like she's saying "Really Mom, you've never let me HAVE dumplings, so how can I judge? Got a cookie?"

Here's another view of my awesome lunch view, looking over towards my neighbors yard.
I love that our trees give us some privacy in our neighborhood since the houses are pretty close together.

Buster Brown just loves to sit and sun himself on days like this. I always have a hard time getting him back inside. Hmm, just like his Momma.

So that's it, nothing earth shattering. I just thought I'd share a glimpse of my day and the pretty day we're having. Guess it's back to the studio for me now! More stamping to do!

Blessings,
~~Robin

Casing Karen

Good morning stampers!!

I've got a quick post for you today - a sweet, simple card that I CASE'd and made my own.
One of my dear friends, Karen Duke, served on the Advisory Board with me this year. I have to tell you, she is just a wonderful lady - I told her I want to be her when I grow up! She not only has a heart of gold, but is a beautiful stamper as well. She doesn't have a blog or I'd send you there to see the rest of her work.

She gave me her version of this card on the Alaska cruise and I immediately knew I'd be casing it for stamp camp. And the gals loved it too!

Here is my version of the card:

I used different stamp sets and a different embossing folder, but the layout and colors are all Karen!

The cardstock is Daffodil Delight, Old Olive and Whisper White. The ink is Daffodil Delight, Old Olive and Early Espresso. I used the Love and Care stamp set from the Summer Mini for the flower. I colored right on the stamp with Stampin' Write markers.

The greeting (both inside and outside) is from the retiring stamp set Great Friend. Even though I don't have a photo of it here, the inside greeting says "You're a friend who makes good times great."
I LOVE that sentiment and the pretty images in the stamp set make it a MUST OWN in my book. You can still order it up until June 30 - then it's gone forever!

I used the new Flower Garden embossing folder, also found in the mini. It's such a beautiful image, don't you think?
The punch is the Scallop Trim Border Punch and the ribbon is Daffodil Delight Satin - also retiring! So sad - I love that ribbon!

Thanks so much for stopping by today - I hope you liked the card. It's so bright and sunny you can't help but smile when you see it. Just like when you see Karen!
Have a great day!
~~Robin

You Mean the World To Me

Last night we got to enjoy a rare, quiet family evening together. Between my crazy schedule, Mark's schedule, call-outs and overtime, Emma's skating schedule and stuff at church, we find ourselves going way more than we are staying put. So last night, Mark cooked a tenderloin on the grill, we got to eat outside on the deck on an absolutely glorious evening and settled in afterwards for an evening of History Channel.

I don't know about you, but we love a lot of the shows on there - Pawn Stars, American Pickers and American Restoration are a few of our favorites.
Pawn Stars is like watching a train wreck and learning history at the same time. Sometimes you can't believe what you're seeing, but you can't turn away! Those guys at the shop always crack us up and we're fascinated by what people bring in to sell. Some of that stuff I'd never give up, it's too way cool - know what I mean? Like last night, this lady brought in a document signed by John Hancock. Really?!! How cool is that? To own that? Wow. But I guess to her, the $5000 she got for it was way more valuable.

But ya'll know we love antiques and the history behind them, which is one of the reasons we love that show American Pickers. The stuff those two guys find is incredible. And the way they wheel and deal is awesome. I hate when they cut to a commercial just before the seller makes a decision on a sale. It's like a game show with a cliffhanger. And then you know they show a million commercials before you find out if Frank gets his bicycle or whatever he's dying to buy. Last night it was a 1948 Airstream trailer. You could tell he was really sweating it out, but in the end he got it and they towed it all the way back home. Can you imagine your hubby pulling in the driveway yelling "Hey honey, look what I got! And it was a bargain at $8000!" Good thing he sells everything he buys because I don't think I could hang with an antique Airstream trailer living in my garage.

So, how does that relate to my card today? Well, watching that show got me thinking about my Dad and how much he loved to wheel and deal. And how much he appreciated the history in an antique piece and how he would have loved to do what those two guys get to do all the time. Travel around and see the country and buy stuff to sell. Yeah, he'd have loved that. And he'd have loved this card for Father's Day:

My Dad meant the world to me and he knew it, so even though I can't send this to him this year, I made it for him.

My stamp camp stampers got to make this card too over the past few days. A few of them didn't need a Father's Day card, so they put a Birthday sentiment inside. Pretty easy to do - we used the Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp set for the inside message and you know there are lots to choose from in that set.

The card base is Naturals Ivory and I stamped it with the Sanded Background stamp in Crumb Cake ink. That background is on the retiring list - so get it before June 30 if you want it in your tool box. It's a great masculine stamp, good for rough texture vintage too.
There are two more retiring items on this card - the Basic Black 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon and the Love Letter Designer Paper. Those are on the Last Chance Accessories list, which is 'While Supplies Last', so don't delay if you want those things. In fact, ALL the 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon is retiring, so get it while you can......
I wrapped the ribbon piece around the card front so the ends are hidden behind the greeting panel on the front. That way the card is pretty on the inside too.

For the rest of the card, I used Basic Black Cardstock, Black Staz-On to ink the greeting - which is from the Word Play stamp set, Crumb Cake ink for the globe image from The Open Seas stamp set and an Antique Brad for the accent. The little globe image in the greeting was colored with a Cherry Cobbler Stampin' Write Marker and punched out with the 3/4" Circle Punch. It's popped up on a Dimensional to make it stand out a bit.
As a final touch on the inside, I stamped the globe image again in the bottom left corner of the card.

So, thanks for letting me ramble and reminisce a bit today - I miss my Dad. There is no way around that truth and there is no way to avoid everything that reminds me of him because that's my whole life. I'm just gonna embrace my feelings as they come and appreciate the memories because I'm so very blessed to have them. And hopefully, you won't mind my sharing from time to time.

Now go hug someone you love and have a great day!
~~Robin

Cupcake Sneak Peek!

So after posting my Cupcake Basket Tutorial on Saturday, I just couldn't stand it - I HAD to decorate that yellow cupcake!
And the perfect Stampin' Up! products to do it with are from the upcoming Idea Book and Catalog. Yes, a Sneak Peek for you!!

Wanna see?

Ok, here you go -
Doesn't it look delicious?!
The Designer Paper I used for the wrapper is from the new Just Add Cake pack. All of the paper in that set is so fun - perfect for birthdays and celebrations of all kinds!

Did you see the RIBBON?!!

Look how cute! It's Chocolate Chip Scalloped Polka-Dot Grosgrain - adorable!
I know these two new products are going to be on your wish list for July 1st! They are just too fun!
My catalogs are in the house now so if you want to reserve one, you need to e-mail me!
Host a stampin' party or card class in July or August and you can get your catalog EARLY - on June 20th. And it's FREE! My gift to you!
Otherwise, you have to wait until July 1st and purchase it.......Hmmm.....

Have a great Monday stampers! I hope you enjoyed the sneak peek!
Check back tomorrow for another project idea. I have a LOT to show you this week!

Stamped blessings,
~~Robin

Cupcake Basket Tutorial

Happy Saturday stampers!

Remember the Cupcake Basket post from last Friday? You really liked this cute little cupcake a lot and I promised a photo tutorial for you! Thanks to my awesome husband, I got that done this week and here it is!

Here's a photo of what your cupcake could look like when it's all finished:
For the tutorial, I didn't decorate the finished basket - let your imagination guide you! Here are the step by step instructions to make this little cutie!

Supplies: One sheet of 8 1/2" x 11" cardstock, Petal Cone Die, Big Shot, Paper Cutter with scoring blade, Tombow Multi-Adhesive, 1 3/8" Square Punch, Paper Snips, 1/8" Handheld Hole Punch, two Brads

Step 1: Cut the cardstock half (5 1/2" x 8 1/2"). Then cut two petal cones with the Petal Cone Die and the Big Shot. You will use both Petal Cone pieces and both Banner pieces. The scalloped half-circles can be discarded or used for another project.

Step 2: Use the negative cardstock piece for one of the cut outs and punch one square piece with your 1 3/8" Square Punch. This will be the solid box base.

Step 3: Fold each petal cone piece in half down the center score line.

Step 4: (I've marked the needed score line with my pen in the photo - you don't need to do this at home.)
Take the folded petal cone piece and lay the top score line (marked here) on the 3" measure line on your paper cutter. Cut off the bottom of the petal cone. Repeat on the second piece.

Step 5: Lay the same score line on the 2" measure line of your paper cutter and Score there. Flip the piece over and score again in the same place. Repeat on the second piece.

Step 6: Using your Paper Snips, cut up the center score line on both pieces to the 2" score line you just created. This will create two flaps on each petal cone piece.

Step 7: Using your Paper Snips, trim off the scored corner piece and discard. Repeat on the second petal cone piece.
You will have two pieces that look like this:

Step 8: Put a THIN line of Tombow Multi-Adhesive on the side flap of one petal cone piece. Remember, a little is a lot when using Tombow!

Adhere the pieces together. Your project will look like this from the front:

Like this on the inside:
Step 9: Fold over and add Tombow to the other side flap.

Adhere the sides together.

Your project will now look like this:

Step 10: Using your Paper Snips, trim off two opposite sides of the cone top.

This is what it looks like after you have trimmed both sides:

Susie is getting bored right now - she is ready to be finished. I hope you're hanging in there! We're almost done!

Step 11: Fold in all four of the bottom flaps, putting a THIN line of Tombow on the final one as shown.

Hold in place to set the adhesive.

Step 12: Add Tombow to the square punched piece:

Adhere it to the bottom of the cupcake to create a smooth bottom.

Step 13: Adhere the two Banner pieces together with Tombow.

Step 14: Punch a hole in each end of the banner - which will be your basket handle - with the 1/8" Handheld Hole Punch.

Step 15: Using the same punch, punch holes in both sides of the cupcake that you trimmed the top off of.

Step 16: Attach the basket handle with your choice of brads.

And lookie there! You have a Cupcake basket!

Well, almost, you need to decorate yours!

I hope you've found this tutorial helpful! I'd love to see your cupcake creations! If you decide to make one or more, be sure to leave me a comment and link to your project! I'll bet you come up with some super cute cupcakes!

And if you need any or ALL of the supplies to create this fun project, you can visit my Stampin' Up! 24 hour store online HERE. Everything is available there and will ship directly to your door! Just click the SHOP NOW button at the top right to get started shopping. Now that's a great cupcake delivery!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Stamped blessings,

~~Robin