Christel's Crafty Creations

Back to School Gifts

2011-10-13T00:10:00.000-07:00

So... I made these about a month ago as a gift for the principal at my son's elementary school. My intention was for her to pass them out to the staff at the school. She was so happy with them that she saved them for a special event that was planned with the school staff. I stacked the m&m's so that the colors would mirror the apple that I had stamped on the tag.

All suplies are Stampin' Up!, except the m&m's.

Stamps: Apple Blossoms (retired hostess set)
Paper: Whisper White and Chocolate Chip Cardstock
Ink: Chocolate Chp, Real Red and Garden Green Markers
Ribbon: Cherry Cobbler Bakers Twine and Real Red/White Polka Dot Ribbon (retired)
Other: 1x8 Cello Bags, Dimensionals, Circle Punch and Scallop Circle Punch

Have a great day!

-Christe

Club Projects from May

2011-08-13T13:33:00.000-07:00

Here are the projects that my club members made in May. This card is a total CASE of Annette Stewart's card, here. I just fell in love with it and couldn't see any way to make it better, so I copied it! The box is inspired by a project that was shown in last years Idea Book & Catalog.

All supplies are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted:

Box:
Box from craft store
Paper: Baja Breeze and Pear Pizzaz
Stamp Set: Notably Ornate
Ink: Early Espresso
Accessories: Whisper White Baker's Twine, Sticky Sheets, 5/8" Satin Ribbon in Whisper White

Card:
Paper: Sahara Sand, Whisper White and Paisley Petals DSP
Stamp Sets: Four Frames and Artistic Etchings
Ink: Early Espresso, Saraha Sand and Not Quite Navy
Accessories: Baja Breeze Seam Binding, Decorative Label Punch, Wallpaper Embossing Folder and Stampin' Dimensionals

Have a great day!

-Christel

Smarties for Ian's Teacher

2011-07-24T21:22:00.000-07:00

I have seen the "Thanks for making me a Smartie" gifts for teachers for years and wanted to make one for Ian's teacher as an end of the year gift. It was a great year, and I can't imagine a better fit for Ian (or me) than Mrs. Logan. I'm trying to remember what this jar is from, maybe it was a jelly jar. I have my husband well trained at this point, if he sees an empty jar on the counter he asks me if I am planning on saving it.

I printed the sentiment on my printer, here are the rest of the details (all supplies are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted):

Stamps: Artistic Etchings
Paper: Love Letter DSP

Ink: Cherry Cobbler
Ribbon: Cherry Cobbler Seam Binding and Linen Thread

Have a great day!

-Christel

Summer Stuff and Convention

2011-07-23T15:24:00.000-07:00

The day school got out, we traveled back East to visit family and friends. We stayed in the Outer Banks, North Carolina for a week and Pennsylvania for just over a week. Here are a few photos from that trip:

Ella, Ian and Addison with their Aunt Kristy (above)

Nightly view from our three-level porch (above)

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (above)

The Phillies game with Josh, Ian, me and Josh's dad, Barry (above)

Next was Stampin' Up!'s annual convention in Salt Lake City, UT and it was a blast! Convention was super fun, but I have to say that what really made it for me was the group of ladies that were with me. Julie, Theresa, Heidi, Maria and Maureen were honestly the best travel buddies anyone could have. I laughed so much while we were together, it was like a workout (kind of). Here's a picture of our group:

I am going to try to blog more often (yeah, I know... I've said that before). Wish me luck!

-Christel

Sneak Peek for Saturday's Class

2011-05-01T15:52:00.000-07:00

Heidi and I are teaming up this Saturday (5/7/2011) for a class. The class cost is $15 for 6 cards with an option to add the 8x10 shadowbox frame for an additional $15. If you cannot make it the day of the class, we are offering a "kit" of the class for $25. We still have two spots available for Saturday, let me know right away if you would like to join us.

So, without further ado, here are the frames and the sneak peeks of the cards...

I hope you're having a great weekend!

-Christel

A gift for a friend

2011-04-14T11:36:00.000-07:00

I have a good friend who is going through some health problems right now. She is so blessed with an amazing family and friends who have been helping take care of her and her family while she is being treated. Meals have been coming three times a week, and I wanted to make her some thank you cards in case she wanted to send something to someone. She loved the card that we made at our club meeting last month, so I did something very similar. I made a dozen cards with decorated envelopes for her, all twelve are a little different. I wanted to make a tag to put on the bag in place of a card from me to her. I LOVE the Fun Flowers Die, I can't wait to get it. My amazing friend let me use hers to make all of these flowers, thanks Heidi!

All supplies used are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Sets: Bliss (2011 SAB) and Thank You Kindly on the cards, Just Believe, Sanded Background and Thoughts and Prayers on the tag
Paper: Crumb Cake and Springtime Vintage DSP
Ink: Old Olive, Early Espresso, Chocolate Chip marker (usd with Spritzer Tool) and Crumb Cake (used with dauber on the "frame" of the card)
Accessories: Vintage Brads, Sponge Dauber, Spritzing Tool, Watercolor Wonder Crayons, Basic Parls, Certainly Celery 1-1/4" Stripped Ribbon, Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die, Framed Tulips Embossing Folder and the Big Shot (of course)

Thanks for looking and have a great day!

-Christel

One more Valentine's Day project...

2011-04-08T09:32:00.000-07:00

I made these m&m candy sticks for a crop that I was involved in at the end of January. I filled half of the bags with regular m&m's and the other half with peanut butter m&m's. My friend Heidi has a soft spot for the peanut butter m&m's. Until recently I had never even tried them.

I really love making these little bags, they always impress the recipient, yet they are so easy to put together. I am working on some for Easter to send to my kid's classes. I will post them as soon as I have them completed.

All supplies are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted.

Stamps: Cute by the Inch (current hostess set)
Ink: Early Espresso and Real Red (marker)
Paper: Whisper White and Red Glimmer Paper
Other: 1x8 bags from GT Bag, 1/16" circle hole punch, 1-1/4 square punch, scallop square extra-large punch and crochet thread

Have a great day.

Christel

Grab Bag Contents

2011-04-07T16:43:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share what I got in my $15 Grab Bag from Stampin' Up! today. I think it is a great deal and will make it very easy to throw together some cards quickly. Most of what I received in my Grab Bag was from the 2009 Spring-Summer Idea Book and Catalog. Here's what I received:

1. It's about You Simply Sent Card Elements and More - I received the paper, envelopes and die cuts that came with this kit

2. Sending Happy Thoughts Simply Sent - I received the envelopes, paper, zig-zag twill tape and dazzling diamonds that came with this kit

3. No One Like You Simply Sent - I received the envelopes, paper and buttons that came with this kit

4. Thankful Thinking Simply Sent Card Elements - I received the full sheets of CS that came with this kit

5. Rock Star Simply Sent Card Elements - I received the ribbon that came with this kit (5 yards of each)

6. Flower Fusion Too Accents & Elements. I am super excited about this

7. A portion of the Black Gingham Ribbon, this was pre-cut but I haven't found the kit it came from

I am very happy with what I received for $15. Sorry that the picture is not great, it's super windy here today, so I couldn't take the photo outside.

Have a great day.

Christel

Grab a bag of Stampin' Up! products!

2011-04-04T09:58:00.000-07:00

Beginning April 1, and continuing while supplies last, you will be able to purchase special "grab bags" from Stampin' Up! These grab bags come in three sizes: the $5, the $10 and the $15 grab bag. Each bag will contain a variety of discontinued products that could include a combination of the following: ribbons, Accents and Elements, chipboard, Designer Series Paper and Simply Sent Kit components. Grab bags will not contain stamp sets or tools. Please keep the following in mind:

Grab bags can only be placed on demonstrator orders or in the Online Store.

There is no minimum purchase required to participate in the grab bag special offer.

There is no limit to the number of grab bags a customer may purchase; however, grab bag items are only available while supplies last.

All grab bag sales are final. There are no refunds or exchanges.

Not all grab bags will be unique.

The $5 grab bag will include at least $20 worth of discontinued product.

The $10 grab bag will include at least $40 worth of discontinued product.

The $15 grab bag will include at least $60 worth of discontinued product.

You can view the entire Clearance Rack ( including the grab bags) here. Please contact me to order.

Have a great day!

-Christel

My Valentine Banner

2011-04-02T23:32:00.000-07:00

I know it's April, but I haven't blogged in so long I need to catch up on posting some projects. As the title suggests, this is a banner that I created for Valentine's Day this year. This was also the project that my club members did in January. My club members were very happy with the way it turned out. I really love ALL of the paper in the Love Letters DSP (Designer Series Paper) pack. I am definitely going to stock up on that one before it retires in June. I hope you are enjoying some of my "oldies".

All supplies are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted:

Paper: Love Letter DSP, First Edition DSP and Red Glimmer Paper

Ink: Basic Black

Accessories: Chipboard Sheets, Dazzling Diamonds, Basic Black 5/8" Satin Ribbon, Basic Black 1/8 Taffeta Ribbon, Basic Pearls, Basic Rhinestones and Sending Love Epoxy Brads (retired)

Tools: Big Shot, Scallop Circle Die, Serif Essentials Alpha Die, Crystal Effects, Mini Glue Dots, Heart to Heart Punch, Cropadile and MS score board

Have a great day!

Christel

Valentine Gift

2011-03-30T20:27:00.000-07:00

Here is the gift that I made for my husband for Valentine's Day this year. We had some family photos taken between Christmas and New Year's and there were a few shots of Josh and I that were really good. Those of you who have (younger) children will understand when I say that I don't remember the last time I had a great picture of just my husband and I. We have three kids, have been married for 13 years and I am still amazed at how blessed I am to have him as my partner and best friend. Mushy enough for you? So, now for the details...

Love Letter DSP

Basic Pearls

Basic Black Cardstock

8x8 shadow box frame

wool felt

Have a great day!

Christel

I'm posting, can you believe it?

2011-03-28T16:13:00.000-07:00

I know, you thought I fell off the face of the earth. Well, I was just busy and blogging is not my #1 priority. I am going to try to do better, not sure exactly how often that will be. I am posting a card that my "club girls" made a week and a half ago. The flower is made out of fabric that I "starched" with a mixture of water and Crystal Effects. What can't you do with Crystal Effects? We also made a pin cushion jar out of a canning jar. Everyone loved both of the projects.

All supplies used are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Sets: Bliss (current SAB) and Thank You Kindly Paper: Crumb Cake Ink: Kiwi Kiss (retired), Not Quite Navy Chocolate Chip marker (usd with Spritzer Tool) and Crumb Cake (used with dauber on the "frame" of the card) Accessories: Springtime Vintage Designer Fabric, Springtime Vintage Big Designer Buttons (Pear Pizzazz), Framed Tulips Embossing Folder and the Big Shot (of course) Thanks for looking and have a great day!

-Christel

A Peaceful Card

2010-10-30T09:04:00.000-07:00

I made this card for my little sister, Sarah. I've been missing her a lot lately and feel like the time we spent together this summer was not as relaxing as we had hoped it would be. We are going to make sure that next time we do better. I also had my step-mom in mind when I did this card, she loved the beach and light blue was her favorite color.

All supplies used are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Set: Sketches (retired)
Papers: Crumb Cake (kraft) Cardstock, Baja Breeze Cardstock, Watercolor Paper and Parisian Breeze DSP (retired)
Ink: Black StazOn and Chocolate Chip (for flecking)
Accessories: Watercolor Wonder Crayons, Aqua Painter, Dimensionals

Have a great day!

-Christel

Legos, anyone?

2010-10-19T18:18:00.000-07:00

My son has been obsessed with Legos recently. It's not really surprising, when you consider that his father would probably still play with Legos if he had more time. This card was inspired by a few examples of Lego cards that I've seen recently, but the Legos themselves were most inspired by Cindy Shuster's card. I made this card for the birthday of one of Ian's friends. As you have probably already guessed, this friend was turning 6. Ian was so excited about how the card turned out! Instead of digging out each of the three colors I used to make the Legos, I used VersaMark to sponge the edges of the circles, square, rectangle and the number 6. I rounded the edges of the square and rectangle by hand with my Paper Snips, the corner rounder took more off than I wanted. I used the white gel pen to create a highlight on each of the circles and then popped the circles up with a dimensional each. I plan on making a few of these for my "stash".

All supplies used are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted:

Stamp Set: Occasional Quotes (current hostess set)
Papers: Whisper White Cardstock, Pacific Point Cardstock, Summer Sun Cardstock and Real Red Cardstock
Ink: Pacific Point and VersaMark
Accessories: 3/4" Circle Pinch, Dimensionals, Big Shot, White Gel Pen, Round-a-bout die (Sizzix)

Have a great evening!

Christel

Another baby card...

2010-10-08T16:03:00.001-07:00

I know you're probably tired of seeing this little guy, but I had a card commissioned this week using this stamp. I don't know when the cuteness of this image will get old to me, maybe never! I colored this little guy in using Stampin' Up!'s Watercolor Wonder Crayons and an Aqua Painter. I can't believe it took me so long to buy the Watercolor Wonder Crayons, they make coloring an image super easy. Everything on this card is Stampin' Up! except for the little baby bunny...

Stamp Sets: Well Scripted (retired) and House Mouse Happy Hoppers "Sleepy Head"
Papers: Kraft Cardstock, Pink Pirouette Cardstock, Watercolor Paper and Shimmery White Paper
Ink: Chocolate Chip and Black StazOn
Accessories: Watercolor Crayons (Earth Elements), Aqua Painter, White Fun Flock (for the tail), Crystal Effects, Dimensionals, and Pink Pirouette Striped Grosgrain Ribbon (retired)

Have a great day!

-Christel

Clearance Rack updated!

2010-10-05T09:34:00.000-07:00

Stampin' Up! has updated their Clearance Rack with some amazing deals, up to 80% off! Contact me right away if you want to order anything. You can view the Clearance Rack here.

Have a great day!

Christel

More cards from last Friday

2010-09-23T14:10:00.001-07:00

I already showed you one of the designs for the cards that we did at my class last Friday, here are the other three. I ended up using embossing folders on three of the four cards, I just love the way they can step up a card so easily. All supplies are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted. I am not sure which one is my favorite, probably the Eiffel Tower one. Which one's your favorite?

Stamp Sets: Elements of Style and Watercolor Trio (love the sentiments in this set!)
Papers: Whisper White Cardstock
Inks: Early Espresso and Marina Mist
Accessories: Marina Mist 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon

Stamp Set: Artistic Etchings and French Script background (retired)
Papers: Love Letter DSP (love this!), Very Vanilla Cardstock, Riding Hood Red Cardstock, Basic Black Cardstock
Inks: Basic Black and Crumb Cake
Accessories: Linen Embossing Folder, Very Vanilla 5/8" Satin Ribbon (retired), Dimensionals, Big Shot Die-Cut Machine, Sponges

Stamp Set: Watercolor Trio (again, love the sentiments in this set!)
Papers: Whisper White Cardstock, Greenhouse Gala DSP and Pear Pizzaz Cardstock
Ink: Baja Breeze
Accessories: Perfect Polka Dots Embossing Folder, unknown brand jewels, 1 & 3/4" Circle Punch, Chocolate Chip 5/8" Satin Ribbon (retired), Dimensionals, Big Shot Die-Cut Machine

I hope you're having a fantastic week.

Christel

A little Halloween

2010-09-19T15:03:00.000-07:00

I don't really do a lot for Halloween, I'm more of a Fall/Harvest girl. Having said that, I have some friends/customers who do like Halloween themed items. One of them said that she wanted to make one the mummy cans, as shown on page 154 of Stampin' Up!'s 2010/2011 Idea Book and Catalog. I told her it wouldn't be hard to do, but I wanted to show her. I did put google eyes on it even though the one in the catalog had cardstock eyes.

The other treat is the new Candy Wrapper Die from Stampin' Up!. Another one of my friends/customers expressed her interest in this die, so I had to get it. Right? It is really easy to put together and I plan on making these little guys for all types of different occasions.

All supplies are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted.

Mummy Can: Twill Tape, Sticky Strip,Large Cellophane Bag, google eyes (brand unknown), ribbon from May Arts and of course candy!

"EEK YOU'RE SWEET" Candy Wrapper treat: Basic Black Cardstock, Ghostly Greetings DSP (retired), Sweet Centers Stamp Set, Basic Blank Classic Ink, Old Olive 1/4 Grosgrain Ribbon, Bigz L Candy Wrapper Die, Sticky Strip and of course candy (inside)!

I hope you're having a great weekend!

Christel

Simple Elegance

2010-09-13T17:16:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how much you can dress up a card with the right tools. Take this card, for instance. The embossing folder and pearls transform it from a plain card to an elegant card. This is the third card I've designed for my stamp-a-stack this Friday night. It was totally inspired by a card that my upline, Jamie, did at a recent class of hers. I made this one specifically for friends who got married last month, oh the shame! We were gone this summer for 6 weeks and I feel like I've been going 100 mph since we got back. My blog posts are evidence of the fact that I'm behind with things. I'm hoping to turn that around soon.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Set: Occasional Quotes (current hostess set)
Papers: Crumb Cake (aka kraft) Cardstock, Baja Breeze Cardstock and Chocolate Chip Textured Cardstock
Ink: Chocolate Chip and Baja Breeze (inside)
Accessories: Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Basic Pearls jewels, Big Shot Die-Cut Machine

Have a great day!

-Christel

Clean and Simple Thank You Cards

2010-08-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

There was a need posted on SCS the other night for Thank You cards. The poster has a similar situation to what my family went through earlier this year. A loved one was going in to hospice with the knowledge that they would be leaving their earthly body soon. When my (step) mom passed away on Easter Sunday of this year, my family and I had a lot of people to send thank you cards to. It's hard to send cards to people that aren't handmade now that I make cards. I had a wonderful giver on SCS send me a pack of thank you cards and will never forget the loving generosity of that one act. So, when I saw this post the other night I knew that this was a way for me to "pay it forward". Losing a loved one is unbelievably painful, and it's amazing how small things, like sending people who made a difference a handmade thank you card, can help make you feel a little better. I don't mean for this to be a heavy post, but it's a good reminder to try to do things for others and cherish the ones you love.

These are both One Layer Cards (OLC) that would definitely qualify as Clean and simple (CAS). I wanted them to be cards that expressed peace and calm. Sorry the pictures aren't the best, my cameras was about to die, so I was hurrying. I also had a drop of water fall on the text on the floral card right before I was photographing it... ugh.

All supplies are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted.

Beachy Thank You

Stamp Set: Seaside (retired) and Simply Said

Paper: Crumb Cake (aka Kraft)

Ink: Craft Whisper White, Baja Breeze and Chocolate Chip

Accessories: uni-ball Signo White Gel Pen

Floral Thank You

Stamp Set: Elements of Style and Simply Said

Paper: Whisper White

Ink: Soft Sky and Chocolate Chip

Accessories: Martha Stewart Ribbon

Have a great day.

Christel

Here we go again with the Craft Fair stuff!

2010-08-20T12:01:00.000-07:00

I have already started to plan for this years SnowFest Arts and Crafts Fair in Simi Valley. Beth (kaitysmom on SCS) has made these really cute sleeves with M&M's in them for a while and I have admired them. I finally ordered some of the bags (they are 1x8) and put a few together yesterday with the M&M's that I had on hand. I plan on selling these at the craft fair for $1.50 each. What do you think?

Christel

I'm back...

2010-08-12T13:19:00.000-07:00

Wow, I have been so remiss in posting. Sorry about that, for those of you who actually "follow" me. I was able to do some crafting while I was in Mississippi, I simply didn't have to time to post stuff to my blog.

This is a card that I made for no particular occasion in mind. It came in handy when I needed a card for friends who graciously hosted us in Albuquerque on our way back to California. I am happy I photographed it just after making it, I plan on making more like it. I will add the supplies I used shortly.

Have a great day!

-Christel

A few of my favorite things...

2010-07-19T14:26:00.000-07:00

So, I have decided to post a project made with some of my recent favorites. An altered composition book using a tag and a paper flower. This was made as a birthday gift for my sister-in-law, Virginie. Walmart had composition books on sale for 25¢ for back-to-school. This was a very cost effective gift, but the recipient would never know that with how dressed up it looks.

Have a great day!

Christel

All supplies used to alter are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted.

Stamp Set: Artistic Etchings

Paper: Shimmer White Cardstock, Spring Silhouettes DSP (retired) and an old book (for the paper flower)

Ink: Wild Wasabi and Chocolate Chip

Accessories: Kraft Taffeta Ribbon (retired), Chocolate Chip Taffeta Ribbon (retired), Baja Breeze Corduroy Button (retired), @ the office reinforcement label (on hole in tag), Pentel RSVP Pen and Composition Book

Busy in Mississippi...

2010-07-07T21:25:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a while since I posted on my blog. We left CA on June 24th and life has been crazy since then. I have had the chance to make a couple of things in the past few days and will post photos as soon as I can, hopefully tomorrow. In the meantime, here is a photo of me with my brothers and one of my sisters (plus Ian). My sister Angela was not able to make the canoe trip this year. I'm the one in the middle... NOT!

Have a great day.

-Christel

My new obsession...

2010-06-17T16:06:00.001-07:00

I have been having so much fun making these accordion flowers/fans this past week. This one was a little large to put on a tag, and since I have 4 weddings coming up in the next few months, I thought I'd put together a super fast wedding card. I can't tell you how much I love this new Level 3 Hostess Set, Occasional Quotes. I love how simple the card is, yet it has a presence.

All supplies are Stampin' Up! except the yarn on the button and the flat glue dots.

Stamp Set: Occasional Quotes
Papers: Kraft Cardstock, Spring Silhouettes Designer Series Paper
Ink: Chocolate Chip and Whisper White (used a dauber to apply to the fan)
Accessories: Large Clear Rhinestone, Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint, 1 1/2" Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon, Chocolate Chip Corduroy Button - on the Last Chance List right now for 1/2 OFF!, White Chunky (Essentials) Glitter, flat glue dots and yarn

Have a great day!

Christel

Tags with flair

2010-06-15T10:29:00.000-07:00

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I was looking through the new Stampin' Up! Idea Book and Catalog the other night with a friend and she pointed out that there were these cool accordion flowers/fans that were displayed on one of the pages. She asked me how I thought they were put together and I just started playing with a scallop circle until I got it.

The next day I looked online to see if I could find out how others do it. I found a great tutorial by Kelly Lunceford, here. Now, I have tried it her way and my way, it gives a slightly different look, depending on which way you do it. In the samples above I did it Kelly's way on all but the tag that has the Eiffel Tower. On that one I punched out 3 scallop circles with Stampin' Up!'s 1 3/4" Scallop Circle Punch out of my old book that I have used for some of my paper flowers in the past. I folded it in half, opened it up, rotated it and folded it in half again at the next scallop. I kept doing this until I had folds in all of the scallops. Be sure to fold between the scallops. I then cut on one of the lines to the center of the scallop and then folded the scallop back and forth like an accordion. I did this to all three of the scallop circles that I had punched and then I glued them together with Crystal Effects. I like using Crystal Effects because it's a strong glue and it doesn't leave a "tacky" residue if you go outside the lines. I used flat glue dots that I have, placed in the center of the "flower" on the front and back to hold it together. It takes a little practice to be able to do it easily. One thing about going the route of the scallop circle/circle punch is that you can get smaller flowers out of it. I might try to do a picture tutorial to show step-by-step what I did, if anyone's interested.

I would use these as either a replacement for a card when being placed on a gift (just write on the back) or I would just throw it onto a card base for an instant card. I really love how they turned out. I think that the Eiffel Tower one is my favorite, what's yours?

All of the supplies that I used were Stampin' Up!, except for the flat glue dots. I used Artistic Etchings Stamp Set, Shimmery White Cardstock, Sahara Sand Cardstock, Spring Silhouettes DSP, various corduroy bottons, Linen Thread, Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon, Twill Tape (colored with my Baja Breeze ink pad), Champagne Shimmer Paint, Chocolate Chip Ink, Baja Breeze Ink, Soft Sky Ink, 1 3/4" Scallop Circle Punch, 3/4 Circle Punch, Table Setting Bigz XL Die and Sponge Daubers.

Have a great day!

-Christel

Introducing Stampin' Up!'s NEW In-Colors

2010-06-14T00:31:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make a little 3x3 card showcasing the new in-colors and this is what I came up with. The colors are (clockwise from top left) Pear Pizzazz, Peach Parfait, Blushing Bride, Poppy Parade with Concord Crush in the middle. I used one of the stamps from the new Level 2 Hostess Set, Cute by the Inch. I simply stamped on the Concord Crush Cardstock with Whisper White Craft Ink and punched out all of the squares with the 1 1/4" Square Punch. These colors will be available for purchase starting July 1, 2010.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!.

Stamp Sets: Cute by the Inch (new, upcoming hostess set)
Papers: Pear Pizzazz, Peach Parfait, Blushing Bride, Poppy Parade, Concord Crush and Whisper White Textured Cardstock
Ink: Whisper White Craft Ink Pad
Accessories: Dimensionals, 1 1/4" Square Punch

Have a great day!

-Christel

Another Sneak Peek card

2010-06-11T15:25:00.000-07:00

I made another card today using the Artistic Etchings set. This card actually happened by accident. I was going to duplicate the card I made yesterday for my upline, but I scored the Baja Breeze base at the wrong spot. I ended up using my Scallop Border Punch on the Early Espresso paper to correct the "mistake". From there I just filled in the remainder of the card. Not too bad for a "mistake".

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Sets: Artistic Etchings and Occasional Quotes (new, upcoming hostess set)
Papers: Baja Breeze, Early Espresso and Whisper White
Ink: Chocolate Chip and VersaMark
Accessories: Dimensionals, Scallop Boarder Punch and Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon

Have a great day!

-Christel

A little old, mostly new

2010-06-10T16:19:00.000-07:00

I received my box of new goodies today and had to make a card right away. I feel like I could have done better, but I was trying to hurry up and get it done while the girls were napping. I used Baja Breeze for my card base. I cannot tell you how excited I am that this color is returning as a core color! I ran the Early Espresso cardstock through the new Vintage Wallpaper Textured Impressions Embossing Folder after I had rubbed my Whisper White Craft Ink Pad over the inside of the folder. I stamped the medallion image from the new Artistic Etchings Stamp Set on the Daffodil Delight with VersaMark and then stamped the Eiffel Tower image from the same set in Chocolate Chip Ink. The sentiment comes from a new level 3 hostess set, Occasional Quotes. I used my sponge dauber to sponge the edges of the Daffodil Delight with Whisper White Craft Ink. I then used dimensionals to "pop" up the Daffodil Delight layer. The kraft taffeta ribbon that I used is retiring, so if you want to get some you better hurry up!

Have a great day!

-Christel

Clean and Simple One Layer Cards

2010-06-06T11:48:00.000-07:00

I made this set of one layer, clean and simple, Stampin' Up! only cards the other morning. I am addicted to this look, at least for today. They were really easy to make, I colored directly onto the stamp with the Watercolor Wonder Crayons after I had dipped it (the crayon) in water. I used my aqua painter to blend it more if it needed it. I wanted the bumpy look of the color, kind of like tempura paint. I didn't try to spray it and then stamp, I was afraid it would be too wet for the one layer. I am going to make a set of 9 of these and then a box to house them in. I was thinking of offering a class to make these but don't know if people will think they are too simple. What do you think?

All supplies are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted.

Stamp Set: Watercolor Trio
Paper: Whisper White
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Watercolor Wonder Crayons and MS Scoring Board

Have a great day!

-Christel

One Layer Card

2010-06-03T23:35:00.001-07:00

I wanted to play with my new scoring tool today, so I made this card. I am really pleased with how it turned out, it is simple and easy. I scored two boxes around the card to create a frame. I will definitely be playing with the use of scoring on my cards more! I cut the sentiment off of the owl image to make it more versatile. I can always line it up on the block with the owl image if I want to stamp them together. This is one of my favorite things about the new clear mount option for the stamp sets!

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Sets: It's the Thought (hostess set) and Happy Moments (SAB set)
Papers: Kraft
Ink: Chocolate Chip and Riding Hood Red

Have a great day!

-Christel

Cards from last weeks class

2010-06-01T10:49:00.000-07:00

Stamp Sets: Medallion Background Stamp and Watercolor Trio
Papers: Sahara Sand (base), Melon Mambo and Shimmery White
Ink: Garden Green, Chocolate Chip, Close to Cocoa and Melon Mambo
Accessories: Dimensionals, Hodgepodge Hardware (Vanilla) Ribbon Slide and Kraft Taffeta Ribbon, Glassy Glaze Enamel, Heat Tool

Stamp Sets: NONE!
Papers: Whisper White (base), Old Olive, Real Red, Chocolate Chip and Summer Picnic DSP (retired). I used an index card to put the words "Thank You" on.
Ink: Chocolate Chip (for sponging)
Accessories: Dimensionals, Real Red 5/8 Grosgrain Ribbon, Scallop Edge Punch, Spiral Punch, Star Punch and Large Star Punch

Stamp Sets: Birthday Whimsy (retired SAB), Itty Bitty Backgrounds and Sweet Scoops (for inside sentiment)
Papers: Kraft (base), Chocolate Chip, Sweet Pea DSP (retired), Very Vanilla, Pretty in Pink, Mint Melody (retired) and Whisper White.
Ink: Chocolate Chip and Close to Cocoa
Accessories: Dimensionals, Chocolate Chip 5/8 Grosgrain Ribbon, Circle Scallop Punch, Wide Oval Punch, Glue Pen, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter

Here are more of the cards that we made at my class last Friday night. We also made the Elements of Style toile card that is in my previous post and a few people made the Father's Day card from last month's class. The Thank You card was inspired by Carrie Gaskin's card, seen here. The Ice Cream Cone card was inspired by an old card of Angie Juda's, seen here. We had a great time and everyone loved the cards. All of the supplies are Stampin' Up! unless noted otherwise.

I will be taking a break from classes for the months of June and July but will still be creating for myself. I can't believe Summer's here already!

Have a great day!

-Christel

Have a great evening!

Christel

Elements of Style Toile

2010-05-23T13:20:00.000-07:00

I have seen various cards lately that were made with a toile looking pattern by combining the floral image from the Elements of Style stamp set and the Square Lattice Embossing Folder. This is my take on the idea. I loved the idea of black and white, classic toile, but I wanted a little color so I used my Watercolor Wonder Crayons to color in the image on the top layer. I also layered it on a card base of Pink Pirouette Cardstock. This will be one f the cards that we do at my class this Friday. Sorry it's not the best picture. I try to take my photos outside since I get the best light, but it's super windy here today. And that's the best I can do with my 5 year old holding the card "still".

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Set: Elements of Style and All Natural (retired)
Papers:Pink Pirouette Cardstock, Very Vanilla Cardstock, and Basic Black Cardstock
Ink: StazOn Jet Black
Accessories: Watercolor Wonder Crayons, Aqua Painter, Dimensionals, Basic Black 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Hodgepodge Hardware (Vanilla), Designer Label Punch, Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Big Shot Die-Cut Machine

Have a great day!

-Christel

Birthday Card for SSC151

2010-05-18T15:47:00.001-07:00

I have been wanting to start to play along with a challenge here and there. I love the challenges and creations on the Stamping 411 Blog so I started there. This is for the SSC151 Challenge. I pretty much stuck to the template they provided. I don't know what I'm going to do without Close to Cocoa, I love that color. I'm thinking I might use this card for my class next Friday.

All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stamp Set: Sweet Little Sentiments (retired hostess set)
Papers:Kraft Cardstock, Sweet Pea DSP (retired), Shimmer White Cardstock, Whisper White Cardstock, Pink Pirouette Cardstock and Close to Cocoa Cardstock
Ink: Chocolate Chip and Close to Cocoa
Accessories: 2 Way Glue Pen, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Crimper, Dimensionals, Pretty in Pink 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Sticky Strip, Big Bold Cupcake Dies, Big Shot Die-Cut Machine

Have a great day!

Christel

Goodwill Frame - Altered

2010-05-13T09:33:00.000-07:00

I went to a local Goodwill yesterday morning because I have been told that they receive overstock from a bunch of major brand stores (Target, Old Navy, Banana Republic). I got a ton of deals. Probably the best one were these off white picture frames from Target. They were originally priced $7.99 at Target and they were $1.99 at Goodwill. It gets better, yesterday morning there was a 1/2 of sale at this Goodwill. So, I got 7 of these frames for $1 each! I know I can get frames at the Dollar Tree for $1, but they are not nearly this nice. The glass is colored, orange on 3 of them and gray/silver on 4 of them. I just had to alter one last night. I've never altered a picture frames before, so I'm not sure if I did them "right". I just put the frame on a piece of paper and traced and then cut it out by hand. To color the sides of the frame, I used my Timber Brown StazOn applied with a sponge. I thought the green and orange gave a Thanksgiving feel, so I went with the sentiment "Blessings". I have been trying to count my blessing a lot lately. I am truly blessed in so many ways. I plan on altering all of them and putting them in my craft fair stash for the Fall. All items are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted.

Stamp Set: Graceful Words (retired)
Papers: Fall Flowers DSP (currently on the Clearance Rack), Very Vanilla Cardstock and Chocolate Chip Cardstock
Ink: Chocolate Chip and StazOn in Timber Brown
Accessories: Eyelets from Makin' Memories, Crystal Effects, Dimensionals, Linen Thread

Have a great day!

-Christel

Welcom Ryle Paxton...

2010-05-11T16:56:00.000-07:00

This card was made for good friends of ours who just welcomed their fourth child into their family. I was totally inspired by Patti Chesky's card, seen here. I just made it my own. Now to get the little guy a small gift and get this in the mail! That seems to be the hardest part, mailing the cards I make. All supplies are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted.

Stamp Sets: Congrats (2009 SAB set) and House Mouse Happy Hoppers "Sleepy Head"
Papers: Kraft Cardstock, Chocolate Chip Cardstock, Watercolor Paper and Parisian Breeze Specialty DSP (retired)
Ink: Chocolate Chip and Basic Black Craft and Baja Breeze Refil (to color Twill Tape)
Accessories: Embossing Gun, Clear Embossing Powder, Watercolor Crayons, Blender Pens, White Fun Flock (for the tail), Crystal Effects, Dimensionals, Sticky Strip, Linen Thread, Twill Tape (1 & 1/2") and Felt Chocolate Ribbon (retired)

Have a great day!

-Christel

Allison's Birthday Gift and Card

2010-05-10T16:24:00.000-07:00

Friday was one of my best friend's daughters birthday. As you may have guessed, her name is Allison. I have been really into altering composition books lately, so that's what I decided to make for her. I also saw this adorable card on Kristina Werner's blog and it inspired this card. I really like the clean look of her cards. Of course, I changed it to all Stampin' Up! products.

Stamp Set: It's The Thought (hostess set from the Summer Mini Catalog)
Papers: Kraft, Whisper White, Rose Red and Good Morning Sunshine DSP (retired - on the Clearance Rack)
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Hooray Hardware (retired - on the Clearance Rack) and Pacific Point Grosgrain Ribbon (retired)

Have a great day!

-Christel

Teacher Appreciation Gift

2010-05-07T10:06:00.001-07:00

I am on the board of directors at my son's (Christian) preschool. I was asked to look into gifts from the school board for the teachers and thought that a journal/prayer journal with a matching pen would be perfect! I love the look of these, and they are pretty easy to make. I printed the verse on my computer, I don't have any scripture stamp sets. I made fifteen of them, and no two were alike. Some of my favorites, including this one, used the retired Green Tea DSP, which is currently on the Clearance Rack for $3.99. You just can't go wrong with that price. I stamped on gift bags for the sets to go in, but haven't taken a photo of that yet, I will do that later and add it to this post.

Have a great day!

Christel

Very Vintage Birthday

2010-05-06T11:09:00.000-07:00

I made this card a couple of months ago, but just haven't had the chance to post it until now. I like how it turned out, even though the sentiment is a little crooked. All supplies are Stampin' Up!

Stampin' Up! Note Cards
Stamp Sets: Very Vintage and Birthday Whimsy (old SAB)
Papers: Whisper White and Baja Breeze
Inks: Baja Breeze, Old Olive, Chocolate Chip and Ruby Red
Accessories: Corduroy Button in Kraft, Linen Thread, Large Clear Rhinestone and 1 1/2" Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon

Have a great day!

-Christel

Cards from last night's class

2010-05-01T20:37:00.001-07:00

Stamp Set: Birthday Bliss
Papers: Wild Wasabi Textured Cardstock - 3” x 6" (folded), Whisper White Cardstock and Junior Varsity Designer Series Paper
Ink: Wild Wasabi
Accessories: Dimensionals
Stamp Set: Well Scripted
Papers: Kraft Cardstock - 5 1/4” x 10 1/2” (folded), Bella Bleu Designer Series Paper, old book used for flower
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Scallop Circle Punch, Large Clear Rhinestone, Champagne Mist Shimmer Paint, 1 1/2" Chocolate Chip Satin Ribbon, Sticky Strip, Mini Glue Dots
Stamp Sets: Fifth Avenue Floral and Happy Moments (SAB)
Papers: Whisper White Cardstock - 5 1/2” x 8 1/2” (folded), Basic Black Cardstock and Bermuda Bay Cardstock
Inks: Whisper White (Craft) and Whisper White Craft re-inker
Accessories: Embossing gun, white embossing powder, sponge dauber, re-inker
Stamp Sets: Extreme Skateboard and Happy Moments (SAB)
Papers: Sahara Sand Cardstock - 4 1/4” x 11” (folded), Basic Black Cardstock, Taken with Teal Cardstock and Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper
Inks: Basic Black and Whisper White (Craft)
Accessories: Spiral Punch, embossing gun, white embossing powder, Dimensionals
Stamp Sets: Butterfly Accent and Fine Flourishes
Papers: Pretty in Pink - 8 1/2” x 5 1/2” (folded), Whisper White Cardstock, Old Olive Cardstock and Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper
Inks: Pink Pirouette, Chocolate Chip and Close to Cocoa
Accessories: Scallop Punch, Dimensionals
Stamp Set: All Holidays
Papers: Sahara Sand Cardstock - 4 1/4” x 11" (folded), Baja Breeze Cardstock - 3 7/8" x 5 1/8", Manchester Designer Series Paper - 4” x 4”
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Accessories:Glue Dots

Well, last night was great. We had a great time, and we were finished when I said we would be! Here are the cards that we made. All of the supplies are Stampin' Up!. Now to come up with May's cards...

Have a great evening!

Christel

Birthday card for hubby

2010-04-25T12:07:00.000-07:00

Well, this past week was my husband's birthday. It was on Tuesday and on Monday I came down with a case of shingles. Yep, shingles. This is the second time I've had it, the other being when I was pregnant with my second child. Both times I have gotten it, someone special to me had just died. I know that people say that you get it when you have a lot of stress in your life. Well, I guess I've been pretty stressed lately. I had this idea in my head of the card I was going to do for Josh, but when it came down to it, I was completely zapped by the shingles. I made this card instead, it was super easy. I am not saying that I don't like this card, I just think I would generally use it for someone younger. My husband loves all things sports, so it does apply to him. My son LOVED it. I am also listing photos of the cards that Ian (5 and a half) and Addison (almost 3) made for daddy.

All products are Stampin' Up!

Here are the details for the basketball card:
Stamp set - Sporting Goods (retired)
Card base - Sahara Sand
Layers on front - Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie and Taken with Teal
Inks - StazOn Black and Black Craft (for the embossing of the basketball)
Twine - Black Twine (retired)
Tools/Extras - Spiral Punch, Dimensionals, Black Embossing Powder, Heat Gun, Watercolor Crayons, Blender Pens, Lumiere (retired) mixed with rubbing alcohol to make the spray that is on the Basic Black cardstock.
Techniques - Watercoloring and Embossing

Have qa great day!

Christel

Gifts for Jamie

2010-04-22T10:49:00.000-07:00

Good morning.

Yesterday was my upline, Jamie's, birthday. I made this little set of goodies for her. This is the first composition book that I've altered, I will definitely be doing more of them! I also "decorated an RSVP pen by putting paper in it, re-purposed a baby food jar as a candle holder and decorated a box of matches (one of my trademark pieces). There is no stamping involved here, just some flecking/sponging on the edges with Chocolate Chip ink. The paper is a retired Stampin' Up! DSP, Green Tea. Also, the ribbon on the composition book is Stampin' Up!'s Chocolate Chip grosgrain. What do you think?

Have a great day!

Christel

Upcoming Class, April 30th

2010-04-20T10:20:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of samples of the cards that I will be offering at my class on April 30th. We will be making a Mother's Day card, a Father's Day card, two birthday cards plus two birthday cards for children (one boy and one girl). The class fee will be $15. This fee includes all 6 cards and envelopes. As usual, you will need to bring your own adhesive (tape runner) and scissors. If you need to order either for the class, please let me know ASAP. Please RSVP by April 20th so I have plenty of time to order supplies. I will have a special gift for all of you who pre-pay by April 26th. Class size is limited to 8, but if the class on April 30th gets filled I will schedule another one for the following week.

So, let's review... April 30th - 7:00-9:00/9:30 - My House - RSVP no later than April 20th - Free Gift when you pre-pay by April 26th - Bring your own adhesive and scissors. Any questions?

I hope to see you there!

Christel

Cards from Jamie's Class

2010-04-19T12:47:00.000-07:00

I went to a class held by my upline, Jamie, this past Saturday. It was a lot of fun and I really enjoyed having some time out. I only made two of the four cards she was offering, and put my own spin on things. If you want to have the details of what was used, please email me.

Have a great day!

Christel

2010-03-23T17:34:00.001-07:00

I made this card for my sister-in-law Jessica. Her birthday was last month, so I can post it now.

I used my scallop circle punch to punch out 8 punches from an old book (gasp!). I don't know if I can keep doing that, it's really painful destroying a book. It's a book that I got for $1 at a book sale with this process in mind. You could also stamp a word stamp on vanilla paper and punch it out. I do like the real vintage look the book pages give. Then I wet the scallop circles and crunched them up. I then opened them back up some and let them start to dry. Then I sponged some shimmer paint on the individual scallop circles. I put the rhinestone brad through them once I stacked them on top of each other. I then scrunched them into the shape I wanted while they were still pliable. They dried in the shape I left them in. That's "it". It's really not that hard.

All of the supplies are Stampin' Up! except the book that I used for the flower. Contact me if you have questions about anything.

Also, I'm always open to come to you for either a class (paid attendance for multiple projects) or a workshop (free demonstration with one project). If there is a group of you that would like to have something planned, customized for you, please let me know. It's a great addition to a girls night "in".

Sale-A-Bration is going on right now with Stampin' Up!. This is a great time of the year to get stuff that you need while also earning something FREE for every $50 in merchandise that you spend. You can view the FREE stuff here in the Sale-A-Bration Brochure.

You can view Stampin' Up!'s Occasions Mini Catalog here. This mini catalog runs through the end of April. It has the debut of Stampin' Up's clear mounted stamps. The clear mounted sets cost less and takes up less space to store.

And as always, Stampin' Up!'s Idea Book and Catalog can be viewed here.

Contact me directly if you'd like to place an order.

Have a great day!

Christel

Set of 3x3 Love Notes

2010-03-19T17:08:00.000-07:00

Here is the set of Love Notes that I was telling you about in my previous post. I made this set to go with the altered mailbox for the raffle contribution. All of the supplies are Stampin' Up!, some current and some retired. I am not going to list all of the supplies individually, but please contact me if you have any questions.

Have a great day!

-Christel

Altered Mailbox

2010-03-14T16:06:00.000-07:00

I bought this mailbox at the Target $1 Spot before Valentine's Day, hoping to decorate it for one of my kids. Well, I didn't get to that... I did finally decorate it, but it will be going to the Discovery Church's Women's Spring Retreat next weekend as a raffle prize. I will be making a set of 3x3 note cards to put in it. I hope to post those later this week.

All supplies are Stampin' Up! unless otherwise noted.

Here are the details:
Stamp Sets - Fresh Cuts and All Year Cheer I
Paper used - Junior Varsity Designer Series Paper and So Saffron Cardstock
Inks - Baja Breeze (for sponging edges), Old Olive and VersaMark
Ribbon - Whisper White 1/4" Grosgrain, Old Olive 1/4" Grosgrain and Rose Red 1/4" Grosgrain
Tools/Extras - Sticky Strip, Glue Dots, Crystal Effects, Sponges, Scallop Square Punch and Creative Memories Square Punch

Have a great day!

-Christel

Hello Baby...

2010-01-31T15:58:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's been a while. I have had a lot on my mind lately, so crafting was put to the side. I did have some of my good friends over on Friday and was able to make a couple of things. This card is for friends in Mississippi who had a baby boy almost two weeks ago. I've been wanting to try the quilting technique since I first saw it months ago. I like how it turned out.

Ingredients:
Card Base - Stampin' Up! Sahara Sand
"Quilt" - Stampin' Up!'s Top Note Die "quilt" made with paper from Stampin' Up!'s To The Nines Specialty Designer Series Paper Pack.
Image - "Sleepy Head" from Stampabilities stamped on Stampin' Up! Watercolor Paper and colored in with Stampin' Up!'s Blender Pen using various Stampin' Up! ink pads.
Sentiment - "Sweet Little Sentiments" (retired) from Stampin' Up!
Brad - Stampin' Up! Chocolate Chip Corduroy Button
Flocking was added to the bunny's tail

Have a great day!

-Christel

Tooth Fairy Tins

2009-12-20T14:06:00.001-08:00

I made these for my craft fair last month and they were wildly popular. I saw the embellishments on Splitcoast and then found them at a local craft store. They are the hinged tins that you can find all over the place. All of the ink and paper is Stampin' Up! There is a poem printed on the inside of the lid.

We leave for PA on Wednesday and I have a LOT to do before then. I will try to post again before we leave, but don't know if I'll get the chance. The new year will definitely bring new posts.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

-Christel

Fresh Cuts Card

2009-12-05T11:39:00.000-08:00

I bought the Fresh Cuts Bundle from the Holiday Extravaganza sale that Stampin' Up! had last week, can't beat 40% off. It's a stamp set that I had overlooked in the catalog, how was that possible?! I made some 3x3 Love Notes with the stamp set last night and will have to post those later. This card is 4x4 and here are the ingredients:

Fresh Cuts Stamp Set
Fresh-Cut Notes
Melon Mambo Textured Cardstock
Inks - Baja Breeze, Melon Mambo and Old Olive
Kraft Taffeta Ribbon
Clear Rhinestone Brad

Have a great day!

-Christel

Filled Mug with Gift Card Holder

2009-12-02T23:36:00.000-08:00

Here is part of the custom order that I delivered today. In this mug there is hot chocolate, hot cider, two biscotti, Starbucks Via, teas and chocolates. The gift card holder on the front was inspired by Jackie Topa's, seen here. I've been loving these gift card holders lately! You can attach them to anything.

Have a great day (night!)

-Christel

Restaurant Themed Gift Card Holder

2009-11-30T10:37:00.000-08:00

I had a request for a restaurant themed gift card holder and this is what I came up with. I used Jackie Topa's idea for the gift card holder seen here. I love the idea of using the Table Setting Die for making gift card holders, I'm all about getting the most use out of an item! What do you think?

Have a great day!

-Christel

Pop Top Can

2009-11-17T15:55:00.000-08:00

Here's one of the projects that we will be doing at the December 4th class (at my house). What I've done is opened this soup can from the bottom with Pampered Chef's Smooth Edge Can Opener. After thoroughly cleaning the can I decorated it, including the top and bottom with paper, ribbon and a felt snowflake flurry. Now it's ready for me to put a gift in, glue the bottom on and give away. This has a real "WOW" effect on the recipient, they'll wonder how you got their gift in the can without opening the top. We'll also be making a gift card/money holder.

The fee for this class is $10 and space is limited to 8. Please contact me to RSVP.

Have a great day!

-Christel

Sympathy Card

2009-11-16T15:34:00.000-08:00

I needed a card for someone who recently lost her father. I used Stampin' Up!'s set Thoughts & Prayers. This stamp set is very versatile. The images can be used for any occasion and the sentiments are great when you want to tell someone that you're thinking of them or praying for them.

All products are current Stampin' Up!

Here are the details:
Card base - Always Artichoke
Layers on front - To The Nines Specialty DSP, Chocolate Chip and Whisper White (stamped on)
Layer inside card - Sahara Sand
Inks - Chocolate Chip, Always Artichoke, Close to Cocoa (for sponging edges) and VersaMark (for the embossing powder)
Ribbon - Chocolate Chip 3/4" Grosgrain
Tools/Extras - Top Note Die, Dimensionals, Glassy Glaze Embossing Powder, Heat Gun and Sponges
Technique - Cracked Glass

Have a great day!

-Christel

New Stuff Coming from Stampin' Up!

2009-11-12T14:48:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to let you all know that there are some really great things coming out with the next Occasions Mini Catalog and the Sale-A-Bration Catalog. The offerings for Sale-A-Bration are the best I've seen since becoming a stamper almost 2 years ago. I can't give you more details now, but I'll put them on my blog as soon as I am allowed to.

From January 5 - March 31 you will qualify for something FREE with every $50 of product that you purchase. This is a great time to have a Workshop (Party!). You get to have a fun night with your friends, you all make a great project and everyone earns free stuff when they purchase $50 or more! Plus, you can also qualify for the hostess benefits.

Contact me today to schedule your Workshop!

-Christel

Peppermint Pattie Treats

2009-11-10T16:52:00.001-08:00

I had made these for the craft fair that I did this past Sunday and was surprised that none sold. I am wondering if everyone realized that they had York Peppermint Patties in them. I have another venue this weekend, the Holiday Boutique by the women's ministry at Discovery Church in Simi Valley. I'm hoping to sell some there. If not, they'll get spread around to my friends and neighbors. I got the idea of using the pretzel rod bags from Maria at Crafty Creations. These would be great for co-workers, teachers, neighbors, friends or anyone you want to have a stocking stuffer for.

All of the product used is current Stampin' Up!, except for the bag and the white crochet thread. The stamp is from the Christmas Punch (hostess) set, the patterned paper is from the Christmas Cocoa Specialty DSP Pack, the solid papers are Real Red and Old Olive, the ink is Real Red, the ribbon is 1/4" Real Red grosgrain.

Non-Craft Fair stuff coming soon...

Have a great Day!

-Christel

Movie Themed Gift

2009-11-02T17:16:00.001-08:00

I have made 6 of these to sell at the craft fair this Sunday. There is a bag of microwave popcorn, three candy bars and a gift card/movie tickets holder in each one. The gift card/movie tickets holder is a design I copied from Jackie Topa, here. The person who buys it from me will have to add their own gift card or movie tickets.

Have a great day!

-Christel

Gift Card Holder

2009-10-28T23:37:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to say that the reason I haven't posted anything in a few days is the fact that I have had the flu and have been pretty out of it. I'm feeling better and will make something new to post as soon as I get my house in order. In the meantime, here's a photo of a gift card holder that I made last week. You guessed it, it's for the upcoming 1st Annual SnowFest Arts and Crafts Fair.

Have a great day!

-Christel

Simple Thank You

2009-10-23T14:45:00.000-07:00

I have been making 3x3 cards lately, and I just love how simple they can be. I made this card for my wonderful neighbor who brought over a casserole the other day. She just makes an extra one every now and then and brings it over. I think God whispers in her ear because it seems like every time she brings one over I am having an especially tiring day.

Here are the details... the card is Stampin' Up! Whisper White Textured Cardstock, the Little Leaves Stampin' Up! Sizzlits Die is cut in SU's Kiwi Kiss (retired), the sentiment is from a retired set, All Natural, and is stamped in Stampin' Up! Old Olive, the cording is Stampin' Up! Linen Thread and last but not least is an old button that I had on hand (not sure where from).

This card gives you an idea of the type of cards we'll be making at my next class. I will put a date on the calendar soon, but it'll probably be the beginning of December.

Have a great day!

-Christel

Gift for Teacher

2009-10-22T13:22:00.000-07:00

I put this together this afternoon. I will be making a few of them for my upcoming craft fair. No stamping or paper, just some Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon and Linen Thread. I got the little wooden "charm" at a craft store. If these don't sell at the craft fair I can use them for Ian's teachers. What do you think?

Have a great day!

-Christel

Altered Skinny Tin

2009-10-20T18:59:00.000-07:00

I altered this tin a few days ago, but have been busy and haven't had the chance to post it until now. The tin is currently on Stampin' Up's Clearance Rack for 99¢. I will be offering a class in the near furure involving altering one of these tins and making 5 Love Notes (3x3 cards) to go with it. I will post it on my calendar as soon as a date is determined.

The paper, blue ink (I LOVE Baja Breeze) and stamp set used on the alteration of this tin are retired, everything else is current.

Have a great day!

-Christel

Got Jars?

2009-10-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

My baby is eating solids now and I have been saving baby jars (my husband thinks it's crazy that I save everything). I came up with this idea. I'll probably sell the candle holder (with a PartyLite candle) and matchbox in the cute little bag for $5 at my upcoming craft fair. It would make a really cute small gift.

Again, I think that all of the stuff used to alter is retired SU, except for the Whisper White Cardstock and the Whisper White Grosgrain Ribbon (which are still current).

Have a great day.

-Christel

Altered Clipboard

2009-10-13T10:12:00.000-07:00

The first time I saw an altered clipboard I knew I wanted to make one. What will I do with it? I have no idea. But it sure is pretty. All of the stuff I used to alter it is retired from Stampin' Up, except the Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon and Close to Cocoa ink I used to fleck the edges. This clipboard is approximately 6" x 9".

Have a great day!

-Christel

Paper Pumpkin

2009-10-11T16:18:00.000-07:00

I've seen these all over Split Coast Stampers, I'm not sure where they originated. It's super easy to make, it's just 12 punches of SU's Scallop Oval Punch, folded and put together with SU's Sticky Strip. All products are Stampin' Up. The paper colors are Pumpkin Pie, Garden Green and Chocolate Chip. I flecked the edges with Close to Cocoa. I think these would make a great addition to any Thanksgiving place setting, maybe as a place card holder.

Have a great day!

-Christel

Tulipe Card

2009-10-09T14:51:00.001-07:00

I wanted to make something other than craft fair items today and this is what I came up with. Jamie was kind enough to let me borrow her Stampin' Up Tulipe Die to play with. I wasn't sure it was something I'd get a lot of use out of. Now I want it. It's a very simple card, just two layers. This is the first card I've made that's 5-1/4 x 5-1/4, I like it. Now I need to order some 5-1/2 x 5-1/2 envelopes. I embossed the sentiment to make it "pop" more. I hope you enjoy it.

Have a great day!

-Christel

Post It Note Holder

2009-10-08T10:34:00.000-07:00

Here's another thing I'm making for the SnowFest Arts and Crafts Fair next month. It's a post-it note holder. I am looking for magnets that will hold it on the fridge. Sarah said that she'd like it much better on the fridge. That way you always know where it is, right? I think I'll put one in my car (without the magnets).

Have a great day!

-Christel

Harvest Treat

2009-10-06T15:32:00.000-07:00

I don't really mind kid friendly halloween images (which Stampin' Up has a lot of), but I wanted something more Fall/Harvest themed for the treat I'm going to send Ian to school with to share with his classmates. I made this from the fantastic tutorial that Angie Kennedy Juda has here. Angie always shares fun projects on her website. I used what I had, which was a bunch of old stuff. All in all, I think it's cute and I will definitely use the pattern again. By the way, there's a snack size bag of skittles in there.

Have a great day!

-Christel

Tic-Tac-Toe

2009-10-06T10:46:00.000-07:00

Here's a game that I made for my son last night using Stampin' Up's Skinny Tin. I had him pick out the images that he wanted to use (robot and car are from retired SU set Toy Box). It was really late when I was putting the letters on the front so my glue got a little messy. He was so excited to see the finished product this morning when he woke up and we were able to play a couple of games before school.

Build A Bear Magnetic Dolls

2009-10-05T16:47:00.000-07:00

As soon as I saw Michelle Wedemeyer's YouTube video on making this magnetic Build A Bear Doll Set I knew I wanted to try it myself. I don't have the set of Stampin' Up dies, but my upline, Jamie, was kind enough to let me borrow them. I really like how it turned out. I would like to get a stronger magnet, the clothes don't hold on very well. Having said that, I have a daughter who will probably think it's awesome!

If you are interested in having a class to make this project (or any other), please contact me.

Have a great day!

-Christel

Clear Envelope Book

2009-10-03T19:47:00.000-07:00

Here's a Clear Envelope Book that I made this afternoon. I'm planning on making a few of these for my kids and my nieces. My sister and her family are planning on coming to visit in the Spring and we always go to Disneyland. These will be a great way for the kids to be able to show off their time there. They have room for 14 photos.

-Christel

3x3 Notecard Swap

2009-10-02T12:44:00.001-07:00

Here are some cards that I've created for a swap that I'm doing with some ladies from Stampin' Addicts. I will be doing a general theme notecard class in January. I think these are great when you want something more than a tag, but not a full sized card.

-Christel

Recipes:

Holly Jolly Notecard - All Current SU products. Christmas Punch Stamp Set (Hostess), Real Red Textured Cardstock, Old Olive Cardstock, Whisper White CS, Real Red Classic Ink, Old Olive Classic Ink, Whisper White Taffeta Ribbon Curly Label Punch, Big Shot, Movers and Shapers Die and Dimensionals

Snow Buddies Notecard - All Current SU products. Snow Buddies Stamp Set (Hostess), Certainly Celery Cardstock, Tempting Turquoise Cardstock, Shimmer White Cardstock, StazOn Black Ink, Certainly Celery Classic Ink, Tempting Turquoise Classic Ink, Pumpkin Pie Classic Ink, Basic Black Classic Ink, Crystal Effects, Dazzling Diamonds, Blender Pens, Real Red Stampin' Write Marker

My First Post

2009-10-01T22:45:00.000-07:00

Well, I have done it. I am officially a blogger. I'm not really sure where to start...

I have posted some photos of things that I will be selling at the 1st Annual SnowFest Arts and Crafts Fair in Simi Valley next month. So far I have packages of Christmas gift tags, decorated treat containers and decorated matchboxes. Most of my things will be $5 and under. I'll be posting more things as I create them.

Have a great night.

-Christel