Paper Addiction

PTI Fifth Birthday Celebrations - Days 5 - 7

2012-02-12T16:12:00.000+10:00

OK, so things haven't quite turned out time-wise as I would have hoped. BUT I do now have an almost fully functioning craft room, YIPPEE!! Just afew little tweaks, some pictures on the walls, and a coat of paint can wait till winter. My final card is very loosely based on the first two challenges

Challenge Day 5 - Pinterest Inspiration

This site would have to be the biggest time waster - I think I spent more time looking for and deciding upon an inspiring photo than actually making the card! There are so many beautiful images (and recipes to download) and ideas that make you think "why didn't I think of that...."

So here is the photo I have chosen, it is just so beautiful and my favourite colours

ajpscs via Blue Peublo

Forest Spider Lilies, Saitama, Japan

Challenge Day 6 - Sketch

Could have picked any of the sketches, really liked them all.

Challenge Day 7 - The theme of Hearts

Just in time for Valentines Day, and my husband really does deserve a huge thank you for all the work (read flat pack assembly) and a fair degree of frustration whilst redoing my room

What you need

Cardstock - PTI black, white, Raspberry Fizz, Pure Poppy

Stamps - PTI Heart Prints

Ink - SU Real Red, Melon Mambo; Memento Tuxedo Black

Dies - PTI Mat Stack 4; Hearts

Impression Plate - PTI Circles

Glitter - Fire Engine Red

PTI Fifth Birthday Celebrations

2012-02-06T20:03:00.000+10:00

How time flies when you are a successful company, making great stamps and making alot of people very happy (bank balances may not see it that way). I chose to CASE Maile Belles, though I have used Modern Basics, however, a similar colour scheme and placement.

And here is my interpretation of her gorgeous card

I wasn't sure I would be able to get any stamping done over the past couple of weeks as my husband decided, out of the blue on a very wet weekend, that the plans for the study cum craft room would suddenly come to fruition. So I had to move out immediately. The upside of this, apart from a wonderful dedicated space, is that I had to go through everything, toss out, donate or ... use. It should be finished in the next week or so, not counting a coat of paint on the walls, that is definitely a winter job.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white

Stamps - PTI Modern Basics, Signature Greetings

Ink - SU Lucky Limeade, Pretty in Pink, Poppy Parade; Memento Tangelo, Sweet Plum, Cantaloupe, Tuxedo Black

Buttons - PTI

Runway Inspired #4

2012-01-26T09:51:00.000+10:00

WOW, 2 posts in a day, this is most unusual for me at the moment. I need to get these done before the tennis starts this morning as we are now into the semis of the Australian Open. I didn't go down this year but we had such a great tournament here in early January that there isn't quite the same need to travel to Melbourne. Still, I have really loved going in the past as it is a great opportunity to catch up with family.

The challenge - lots of wonderful bright colours

I have gone with Modern Basics as I really need the practice and there are so many amazing and different projects out there that I want to try using this set. I have gone with a simple birthday card which will be useful for my daughter's friends.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white

Stamps - PTI Modern Basics; Happy Day

Ink - SU Early Espresso, Green Galore, Pink Passion, Tempting Turquoise; Brilliance Rocket Red, Sunflower Yellow

Gems - Kaisercraft

Papertrey Ink January 2012 Blog Hop

2012-01-26T07:39:00.001+10:00

I know it's only meant to be 1 favourite project but I have picked 2. I loved the effect of the quatrefoil die white on white but really love the colour scheme of the second.

It isn't very clear but I embossed some of the flowers from Rosie Posie onto the white cardstock. In real life it is much more apparent.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white; Shimmer Aqua (? Canson)
Stamps - PTI Rosie Posie, Happy Day
Ink - Brilliance Pearlescent Jade; Memento Tuxedo Black; Versamark
Die - PTI Quatrefoil
Embossing Powder - Coloriser (clear)
Gems - Kaisercraft

Today is Australia Day, a day on which we celebrate the nationhood of our young country. Unfortunately, with the days of heavy rain we have had, alot of events have been cancelled. But I am sure there will be cane toad racing or yabbie catching happening somewhere in Brisbane.

Runway Inspired #3

2012-01-13T17:49:00.000+10:00

After an extended Christmas/New Year hiatus, I think I am back in the swing of card making. I haven't been idle, just indulging my festive need to CASE. In this case to do something with my Taylored Expressions monthly kits and I couldn't go past the wonderful creations of the DT. Consequently I have tons of birthday and thank you cards which I use the most.

I caught up a bit with my 2011 Project Life album but there is a long way to go. I will give it another go this year, hopefully alittle more wiser.

It has taken a while to come up with my final card for this challenge, I felt quite in awe of what others had created, but I am happy with the outcome.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white, black; ? shimmer black

DSP - SU Neutral Patterns

Stamps - PTI Flower Fusion

Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black

Die - Spellbinders

Punch - Martha Stewart

Gems - Kaisercraft

Hope to be back with a few cards for the Clean and Simple online class

PTI December Blog Hop

2011-12-27T07:18:00.000+10:00

Holiday Leftovers Challenge

Hope everyone had a lovely Christmas, ours was pretty quiet, which is a complete change from the norm. I tried a few new recipes, including a Yule Log as my daughter isn't that keen on plum pudding. In the process learnt how to make swiss meringue buttercream, not that I knew that at the time, so the potential to muck it up was high. Tastes wonderful though.

I thought I would get this quick card in before we head up the coast for a few days. Beach conditions should be better now that the cyclone has moved away from the coast.

The recycled part of my card is the bow, which came from our bonbons. Unfortunately I wasn't thinking ahead and have no photos of them, but they are always on our Christmas table.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white; Canson shimmer gold

Stamps - PTI Stylish Sentiments: Holiday

Ink - Versamark

Embossing powder - Judi Kins Rockin Red

Die - PTI Quatrefoil, Tag Sale #3

Paper Player's Challenge #76

2011-12-19T04:51:00.000+10:00

I think I nearly have all the Christmas cards I need. Certainly means that they won't all be at their destination before Christmas, but that seems to be getting increasingly harder to achieve. This one is for our wonderful neighbours who look after our place when we are away, they were particularly helpful when my husband had knee surgery earlier in the year.

What you need
Cardstock - SU Very Vanilla, Cherry Cobbler; Canson shimmer gold
Stamps - Inkadinkado; PTI Stylish Holiday Sentiments
Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black; SU Cherry Cobbler
Gems - Kaisercraft; Pebbles

Just a few more Christmas cards

2011-12-18T18:16:00.000+10:00

Though, perhaps this technically isn't. I think I maybe on a subconscious mission to try and use some DSP (as was metioned at a gathering on Friday), I may even have stupidly said that I would try not to buy any in 2012, don't think that will last long. First Edition will be very useful though.

What you need

Cardstock - pink (?); SU Real Red, white; Bazzill blue

DSP - SU Christmas Cocoa, First Edition

Stamps - TSG Polka Dot Blooms, In Stitches

Ink - SU Bashful Blue, Regal Rose

Die - My Favourite Things

Ribbon - SU Taffeta

Button - PTI

Gems - Kaisercraft

Gold Twine

This one is for my husband - I don't think he makes a practice of reading my blog so I am probably safe.

Pulled out some golden oldies here. Snow Swirled still remains one of my favourite stamp sets ever and it was one of my first purchases.

What you need

Cardstock - SU Crumb Cake, Real Red, White

DSP - SU Christmas Cocoa

Stamps - SU Snow Swirled; Lili of the Valley Circular Sentiments - Christmas

Ink - SU Real Red, Early Espresso, Crumb Cake, Close to Cocoa

Gems and pearls - Kaisercraft

Dark Brown thread - DMC

Tuesday Trigger - ... and a Partridge in a Pear Tree

2011-12-18T05:42:00.001+10:00

Very, very interesting choice, colours very hard to define unless looking at the cushion in real life, I would imagine. Went with the bird theme and found some patterned paper that was grey/blue (really should look a bit harder more often, never know what you will find).

What you need
Cardstock - PTI Rustic white; SU grey, white
Patterned paper - ????
Stamp - Inkadinkado
Ink - Versacolor Sky Blue
Die - PTI
Gems - Kaisercraft, MME Lush

Play Date Cafe Challenge #111

2011-12-17T20:33:00.000+10:00

Stunning graphic and colours, which I felt would be perfect for my parents Christmas card. I wanted to keep all the action in the centre of the card but the black needed abit of toning down. Can't get enough of these 2 PTI sets, definitely worth the wait.

What you need
Cardstock - Bazzill white; SU black; shimmery 'Splash' ?
Stamps - PTI Harvest Berries, Stylish Holiday Sentiments
Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black
Gems - Kaisercraft

Runway Inspired Inaugural Challenge

2011-12-16T20:41:00.001+10:00

There will be plenty of great inspiration with fashion photography. Congratulations to Jennifer Rzasa for her brainchild, I think we will have lots of fun with this one (not to mention inspiration from a brilliant Design Team).

With my interpretation I was trying to capture the design in the background as well as the frosted glass look of the logo. I stamped the bloom onto acetate with Stayzon and double mounted it to give the illusion of glass. Love the clean and simple look of this one.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white; Bazzill Basics Yellow
Stamps - Kaisercraft; Wplus9 Woodgrain Silhouettes Additions
Ink - Stayzon Black; Memento Tuxedo Black
Acrylic

Here is a close up of the focal point, hope it shows depth in the design.

It was meant to be a Christmas card ... but ...

2011-12-15T21:12:00.000+10:00

With the best intentions, and still afew outstanding Christmas cards to be done, this was meant to be Christmassy, but no. However I did find patterned paper that fitted the bill for this ColourQ challenge

Then came the design I had to try, didn't feel up to colouring an image for the focal point as was done in the inspiration cards (read laziness into the above statement), so went for a simple flower image.

This used afew items that have been in my collection for quite some time, always a good thing, so maybe I should set myself a challenge of using up some supplies ... wonder how long that will last.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics cream; SU Real Red, Regal Rose, Glorious Green, white

Patterned Paper - Doodlebug Love Blooms

Stamps - PTI Wishing you

Ink - SU Real Red, Green Galore

Ribbon - Kiasercraft

Die - PTI Ric Rac; SB Classic and Scalloped Ovals

Kindyglitz

We had a great time on our road trip to NSW. Little Miss LOVED Harry Potter - there wasn't a tonne of stuff to see, which, for children is probably a good thing, but very well put together. The Jenolan Caves (limestone caves west of Sydney), particularly Carols in the Caves was my highlight though very cold. But then it is a toss up with a trip to the Donna Hay General Store (one of my favourite chefs). I think that my purchases from here will have to be my Christmas presents.

Play Date Cafe Challenge #109

2011-12-05T04:56:00.000+10:00

Hmmmm, this was a tricky one. I think my interpretation maybe more pink than blush, but it was great to have to think outside the box.

Berry Sorbet had to stand in for Blush, whilst Crumb Cake made an appearance as Champagne

What you need
Cardstock - SU Elegant Eggplant, white; PTI Berry Sorbet
Patterned Paper - PTI Guidelines
Stamps - TE Sparkle and Cheer; Wplus9 Christmas Wishes
Ink - PTI Berry Sorbet; SU Elegant Eggplant, Crumb Cake
Ribbon and Pearls - Kaisercraft

Well, it's the start of the working week here in Australia, so I had better get organised to do exactly that

Krafty Christmasy CAS-ual Friday #30

2011-12-04T09:47:00.001+10:00

Decisions, Decisions! I have gone with Scallops - Kraft - Aqua, though I have inadvertently added polka dot ribbon (my mind really must be going). With the Christmas theme I can also enter it into the Kraft Journal challenge and Jay-Gee's challenge # 14 (also get to post her divine graphic).

It is hard to see but I have stamped text on the card base, then sponged the edge of the top card, looks pretty I think. The stamps are 2 lovely sets from Wplus9, though our Christmases are not wintery but definitely warm.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI Kraft, Aqua Mist, white
Stamps - PTI Text Style; Wplus9 Christmas Wishes, Winter Wishes
Ink - PTI Fresh Snow; SU Real Red, Pool Party, Early Espresso, Crumb Cake
Die - Spellbinders Scalloped Rectangles
Ribbon - Vandoros
Gems - Kaisercraft

"There She Goes" #132

2011-12-03T18:28:00.000+10:00

Give me a gorgeous photo any day, for a challenge

I decided to highlight the turquoise/aqua colour (obviously), the touch of black (in the shoes, but maybe the curtains), and the mirrored bedside table.

I used my PTI Hawaiian Shores stamp pad, which may or may not be a dud, but nothing else comes close. I broke open my silver embossing powder to create the mirrored effect. Next time I would probably do another layer to make it really lush.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI Hawaiian Shores, black, white
Stamps - TSG Fabulous
Ink - Versamark; PTI Hawaiian Shores
Embossing Powder - Ranger Super Fine Silver
Gems - Kaisercraft

Well dance is over for another year, helped out backstage this morning, learnt alot about children and what their parents expect of volunteer helpers. The concert this afternoon was wonderful ( my daughter's first year for 2 items in the one show), but she now wants to add another class to the dance repetoire! OH NO!

ColourQ #113 and Card Patterns #143

2011-12-02T16:42:00.000+10:00

I love this angel graphic and as we put up the Christmas tree today, it put me in the mood to make a card in these colours. One problem, I don't have anything in Marina Mist except Blueberry Crisp DSP, so here is my card. Of course I cut my twine far too short hence the weeny bow.

What you need
Cardstock - SU Night of Navy, white
DSP - SU Blueberry Crisp
Stamps - SU Bliss
Ink - SU Bashful Blue, Night of Navy
Lace - ? Maya Road
Twine - The Twinery (Demin)
Pearls - Kaisercraft

Enjoy the weekend, my Saturday is consumed with ballet and jazz concerts, but then that's it for commitments. Next week we are off to Sydney for the Harry Potter exhibition and we have a few other fun things planned.

Stampin Royalty #100

2011-12-01T17:25:00.000+10:00

"Anything but a card ..."

Fortuitously, for this challenge, I had a couple of things I made for my daughter's teachers for Christmas. This was for her class teacher along with a some other bits and pieces. As she has had the same teacher for 2 years, I couldn't do a birthday book so really had to scout around for something else to do. I scrolled back through Nichole Heady's blog under the non-card projects heading and found this post. Exactly what I was looking for, I think I will put together a few more to tuck into Christmas presents.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI Kraft, white

Patterned paper - Jillibean Soup

Stamps - PTI Take Note

Ink - SU Early Espresso, Real Red

Ribbon - SU real red

Gem Flourish - Prima

This was another little gift for her class teacher. My husband wants to plaster the sentiment all over the fridge (where Vitamin "C" lives in our house). So glad I found this stamp (Maya Road I think), I have always loved this graphic from WWII (I think). Papers are from October Afternoon Sidewalks.

This gift was for her piano teacher. On the left is a post-it note pad and on the right a note pad on a plastic photo frame from Coles (the same as the note pad above). The design for the note pad was inspired by this post from Michelle, not for the same teacher though.

Tuesday Trigger - Red and Rustic

2011-12-01T15:04:00.000+10:00

Wouldn't this be the most divine place to take time out and read a book (knowing me I would probably fall asleep before the end of the first page). The colours are so appealing and restful.

So this is my interpretation of the colours. I still don't have enough Christmas cards so the next few challenges will probably cover it. Good to be able to use PTI's Harvest Berries, I just love this set.

What you need
Cardstock - SU Sahara Sand, Cherry Cobbler, Very vanilla
Stamps - PTI Harvest Berries, Stylish Sentiments: Holiday
Ink - SU Early Espresso, Cherry Cobbler
Seam Binding - SU Cherry Cobbler
Pearls - Kaisercraft

Better go, we are about to get our first summer storm, of course just before we have to head out the door to the vet.

Less is More - Week 42 "Silhouettes"

2011-11-25T16:36:00.000+10:00

This card popped into my head when out walking one morning this week, I think because a friend became engaged recently. And even better, it came together in 20 minutes - nothing like getting a card made when inspiration strikes.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white, black

Stamps - WMS Oval Classic Frames, Cameo Maker, Big Day Additions

Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black, London Fog

Afew more Christmas jobs can be ticked off. With school finishing next Tuesday, all teacher gifts are done, will share next week. My daughter's family birthday will be on Sunday, just a straight forward Aussie BBQ, with a special request for a chocolate mousse cake birthday cake. Love that girl's choice!

There is something about 9 year old girls in confined spaces .....

2011-11-20T21:17:00.000+10:00

BOY, can they make alot of noise! My daughter had her 9th birthday party yesterday with a small group of friends. Very well behaved but can they squeal, especially with Selena Gomez on the iPod.

This was the invitation for the cooking party, at which they made ravioli and a croquembouche as the birthday cake. I used SU's Domestic Goddess DSP and some WMS gingham. Win, win. Mum didn't have to do anything for the party - well, till next weekend which is the family get-together.

These were the take-home gifts I put together from a blog post Kim Badelt did last year. Thank you so much Kim.

Hope she doesn't expect much for next year! Just a few more teacher gifts to organise and some family Christmas presents and maybe, just maybe, I might get around to a challenge or two.

November Waltzingmouse SOAP CASE challenge

2011-11-06T16:57:00.000+10:00

There were so many absolutely divine cards to choose from in this month's SOAP blogs but this one, from Day One was a standout for me, minimal but SO elegant - and framed, just how I like my cards. Now I have a use for all the foil cardboard leftover from daycare and school projects. I may CASE this one for my Christmas cards if I get to them too late - just to let you know in advance Julia .

Here is my version of Julia's design, got my new stamps just in time. I really didn't want to change anything as St. Nick looks so regal in blue. But I found red first and used the Nutcracker instead. Love how the light bounces off the foil.

What you need
Cardstock - Bazzill Basics white; red metallic cardboard
Stamps - WMS Nutcracker Sweet; Nordic Winter
Ink - SU Real Red
Gems - Kaisercraft

November Reject Blog Hop

2011-11-05T16:32:00.000+10:00

Well, here we are again, another month gone by in a rush. But I have not been idle, dear reader, a month full of PC submissions and making everyone else's Christmas cards but my own. I did have 1 project picked up, always a good thing, but it was not my favourite, these 2 were. As everyone keeps saying you just never know what they are looking for.

I have stitched at intervals down one side of this divine Cristina Re paper then used the reverse for the background. The violet colours of the rose aren't usually one of my go to schemes but I think it worked particularly well.

This next one was loosely based on a card I did for my Mother-in-law earlier this year, again CR paper but in blue. Not sure who could be the recipient of this but maybe it will go in the box of keeper cards. I had a peek at some of the other "rejects" and they are gorgeous - we have some very talented people in cardmaking-land.

2011-10-09T06:15:00.000+10:00

Here are a couple of challenges I played with yesterday, though I really should pay a bit more attention to the layering on a sketch. I stuck everything down then realised I didn't have a scallop detail or ribbon across the corner. Oh well, necessity is the mother of invention, or so they say.

I have been trying out a few techniques that were demonstrated in Jennifer McGuire's Inspiration Showcase, namely, using Perfect Pearls. The little geometric designs were stamped in Versamark then dusted with Perfect Pearls, then "waved" through a mist of water. Love the effect. The flowers look a little unbalanced but really couldn't think of another way out of my dilemma.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics black, white; SU Pear Pizzazz, Wisteria Wonder

DSP - SU Neutrals Collection

Stamps - Darkroom Door Spiral Flowers; Verve Fern Leaf, Circular Sayings

Ink - Versamark; Memento Tuxedo Black; SU Pear Pizzazz

Die - PTI Limitless Layers

Flowers and Gems - Kaisercraft

Perfect Pearls, Kindyglitz

This is the birthday card I made for one of my daughter's friends - actually Michelle's daughter. It is based on a card Dawn McVey did about a month ago using Hero Arts/Basic Grey papers and stamps. As it was a Hawaiian themed party, I really overdid the tropical flowers.

Hope she liked it and enjoyed her special day.

2011-10-07T20:38:00.000+10:00

This is my second post for today

Gotta love these colours, though I don't think this was as successful as the card I posted earlier to day. I had to walk away for awhile (to do the ironing - a great time to think) to work out how I could pull it together. There are 2 different yellows on this card indicating my complete lack of yellow inks, also indicating it isn't one of my favourite colours. Were it green, I have endless shades of that hue.

What you need
Cardstock - Bazzill Basics Orange, mid brown. yellow; SU white
Patterned Paper - Autumn Abundance
Stamps - PTI Mat Stack 4 Collection
Ink - SU Early Espresso, Pumpkin Pie; Brilliance Sunflower Yellow
Ribbon - SU pumpkin pie taffeta

I think I will also enter it in the Ribbon Carousel Challenge

October already!

2011-10-07T11:34:00.000+10:00

Where has the year gone! My daughter has just returned to school this week and has only 7 weeks of Grade 3 left, I am sure she was only a toddler a year ago! We had a lovely week in Ballarat with family only it was very cold and stormy which caused havoc across the southern states.

Anyway to a few challenges I have had my eye on this week. I have finished my daughter's birthday invitations which I will put up next week when they have been sent, just need to work on the take home gift now.

This first card combines the gorgeous colours of the Shabby Tea Rooms latest challenge and the Sweet Stop's latest design.

This patterned paper would be my favourite of all the PTI papers but I always forget to use it.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white, new leaf; SU Early Espresso

Patterned paper - Autumn Abundance

Stamps - PTI Turning a New Leaf, Beautiful Blooms 2; SU Curly Cute

Ink - SU Real Red, Pumpkin Pie, Early Espresso (and marker)

Ribbon - ? American Crafts

Gems - Kaisercraft

The second challenge that caught my attention was Cards for Men utilising something sporty. I have had this Snoopy stamp for a few years, my husband being a soccer fan, but never used it. Well he has his Man Utd kit on and he is ready to play ball

What you need

Cardstock - SU black, white

Patterned paper - Kaisercraft Shaken not Stirred

Stamps - PTI Inside and Out: Birthday; Stampabilities Snoopy the Hot Shot

Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black; SU Real Red

Copic Markers

And finally for now, one for the Daring Cardmakers challenge - a card featuring a foreign language. I paired this with SU's new Beau Chateau DSP.

What you need

Cardstock - SU Soft Suede, Pink Pirouette, Vanilla

Patterned paper - SU Beau Chateau

Stamps - SUCarte Postale

Ink - SU Soft Suede; Versamagic Aegean Blue (reasonable match for Marina Mist)

Ribbon - SU Pink Pirouette striped grosgrain

Pearls - Kaisercraft

You can find links to all these challenges and more on the right hand sidebar.

Paper Crafts Blog Feature

2011-09-28T17:15:00.000+10:00

It was a lovely surprise to be asked to write alittle bit about Christmas in Australia for the Paper Crafts Connection lead up to the PC Christmas ideas book for 2011. It was one of my favourite submissions and may use it for some of my cards this year.

I can't wait to see how my other projects look in print and all the other great ideas of some very talented designers.

A rare September post - Less is More

2011-09-24T18:13:00.001+10:00

So for my second September post, which had to be reasonably quick, I have chosen the Less is More challenge - a sketch

Now that my focus is for Christmas, except for my daughter's birthday, I thought a Christmas card was in order.

What you need
Cardstock - SU white; Bazzill Basics hot pink
Stamps - SUMy Friend; Penny Black Merry Christmas
Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black, Rose Bud
Markers - Memento Rose Bud, Angel Pink
Stickles - Diamond

I have been glued to Jennifer McGuire's online class "Inspiration Showcase" for the past couple of weeks and found an area of my stamp/ink collection which is sadly lacking - Distress inks and stains. I have seen some of the techniques featured but definitely not all so hope to have a play when we get home from Victoria.

This is what I have been working on .... have known for quite sometime that these birthday calendar books needed to be done but, of course, I left getting them done till the last minute.

If I can indulge my ego for a moment, this weeks Paper Crafts blog is featuring the new Christmas cards special edition. A week or so ago Courtney Smith emailed me to say that a project of mine would be featured on the blog (Tuesday US time, so Wednesday in Oz). So take a look and let me know what you think.

A Bundle of Joy

2011-09-18T15:36:00.001+10:00

It certainly has been a while since I blogged, unintentional, but if the motivation isn't there then there's no point pushing it - this is supposed to be fun. It is school holidays now and my daughter and I are off to Victoria next week, so this week is my only chance to create and post. I have a couple of birthday books to decorate before then so I may end up using card challenges for the covers.

This is one of my go-to designs for baby cards, I love the simplicity and gender neutrality (if that is the correct use of the word). It covers 2 challenges, Just Add Ink - Just for Baby and Wee Memories - No Patterned Paper.

What you need

Cardstock - SU Sahara Sand, white, Barely Banana, Certainly Celery

Stamps - SU Eastern Blooms, Punches 3, Polka Dot

Ink - Versamark; SU Certainly Celery

Filigree White Embossing Powder

Ribbon - SU Grosgrain Certainly Celery

This next card is one I did for a friend of mine whose birthday it was last week. I hadn't used this set before and the inspiration was purely Maile Belles. I think this set is going to take some practice but I do like how it turned out.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics white, yellow

Stamps - PTI Gracious Vases

Ink - Memento Tangelo, Ladybird, Pear Tart, Cantaloupe

I have also been busy with the latest Papercrafts magazine submission, unfortunately none of mine were chosen, perhaps that may have reflected a lack of inspiration, but here is one that I really loved. These sets really appealed to me, as I come from a chemistry background (thank you Deborah Fringes).

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white; Bazzill Basics Orange

Stamps - There She Goes Chemistry, Chem 101

Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black

Copics

Amber at Damask Love has a Reject Blog Hop running, so check out all the other beautiful cards that missed out.

JAI #82 - something from the stash

2011-08-30T20:12:00.000+10:00

First of all, I would like to say a big thank you to the Just Add Ink team, I have had to look through some sadly forgotten boxes for this challenge and have found some wonderful bits and pieces. I did have my eye on a strip of patterned paper I made for a children's birthday card last year, but when I came to use it, it had vanished from my desk (the cat probably got it, a love for shiny things).

I then discovered these gorgeous diecuts I think my mother bought for me a few years ago at a craft show.

The sentiment is a little hard to see but I didn't think the decorative corners could handle too much more embellishment, so opted for something a little more restrained (HA! glittery gold embossing powder, very restrained).

Anyway, better keep this short as it looks like we are in for our third late winter thunderstorm for today.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics olive

Diecuts - 5 kids and a dog

Stamp - Stamp It

Ink - Versamark

Embossing Powder - Zing! gold glitter

Play Date Cafe Challenge #96

2011-08-29T14:09:00.000+10:00

Aren't these just the most gentle feminine colours? The graphic is truly gorgeous, so that's enough of an invitation for me to get stuck in. I have combined it with this sketch from Mojo Monday.

And here is the result

Love the idea of the 2 different borders running along side one anther, but the more delicate one at the top gets abit lost with all the pattern around it. Suggestion to self, it really needs to be 2 bold borders.

What you need

Cardstock - Ivory Shimmer (Canson); SU Very Vanilla

Patterned Paper - MME Tickled Pink; SU 6 x 6 DSP collection

Stamps - HA Sweet Threads

Ink - Brilliance Pearlescent Jade, Coral

Ribbon - PTI Aqua Mist

Thread - SU; DMC 760

Button - PTI

CASE Study - your own style

2011-08-29T05:00:00.000+10:00

My Style: I think it is fairly clean, very much a "framer", and don't mind a bit of bling (rarely absent from my cards). This is one of my favourite colour combinations, classic and abit bold. The only problem is, there is no stamping, definitely not my USUAL style.

It also happens to fit in with another challenge using stickers, don't have alot of them and guess where I found it - in the forgotten box (that has really saved me this weekend).

What you need
Cardstock - Bazzill Basics black, hot pink; SU white
Patterned Paper - PTI Raspberry Fizz Mix
Sticker - Cristina Re
Gems - Prima

Lots of embossing

2011-08-28T10:00:00.000+10:00

Beautiful colours with the added challenge of embossed flowers.

Another new challenge to me, this one with dry embossing. So, this card has 2 embossing techniques, something I've not done before.

Here is a close up of the flowers, love the effect. I found the diecut in a long forgotten box at the back of the shelf and thought the colour was pretty close to Kraft. Really should have a rummage more often, it's amazing what you find.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics Olive, Red; SU white

Stamps - SU Growing Green; PTI Damask Designs (sentiment)

Ink - SU Real Red, Old Olive; Versamark

Embossing Powder - Coloriser clear

Die cut - Five Kids and a Dog

Embossing Folder - Sizzix Swiss Dots

A Very Satisfactory Combination

2011-08-28T08:00:00.001+10:00

This is my second post for today, and possibly not the last.

Colour Throwdown #156

Ribbon Carousel Challenge #17

To go along with this back to school challenge, was this one from Wee Memories.

And FINALLY, this great sketch from the Simon Says Stamp Challenge

OK, that all being said, here is the card

This was a great colour scheme, I had reservations but love the plum with Kraft. It really does pay to have stuff lying all over your desk as it tends to get more use ie the patterned kraft paper. Well that's my excuse for not tidying up often enough.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI Kraft; SU Perfect Plum, So Saffron, white; X-press It Blending Card

DSP - SU Neutrals Pattern Stack

Stamps - MFT a la modes "You Rule"

Ink - Memento Sweet Plum, Tuxedo Black

Copics - E000, 00, 01; E55, 57; C0; V12, 15, 17, 91; Clear Spica pen

Die - PTI medium scallop

Ribbon - SU So Saffron Grosgrain

Button - PTI

Paper Twine - Annabelle Stamps

Summery Butterflies

2011-08-28T06:32:00.000+10:00

Love this great colour combination from ColourQ, I substituted PTI Summer Sunrise for Crushed Curry. I had some Pebbles papers from last year which I think worked really well with these colours.

Unfortunately I missed the deadline for The Paper Players challenge, as it is a great sketch. I have found that I am using my SU stamps alot in the last week or 2, it is nice to rediscover some forgotten favourites. Also found my tin of Build-a-Brad bits, so had a go at that when no other embellishment seemed to work.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics Olive; SU white

Patterned paper - Pebbles Freshly Picked, Blossom

Stamps - SU Great Friend

Ink- Memento Rich Cocoa; SU Island Indigo

Ribbon - SU Daffodil Delight

Build a Brad - SU

Gems - Kaisercraft

Spring is on the way ...

2011-08-26T21:06:00.003+10:00

Gorgeous photo from The Shabby Tea Room (with the added challenge of handmade flowers).

Interesting sketch from Waltzingmouse.

Not entirely sure about the interpretation. I bought the Authentique: Uncommon papers alittle while ago so thought this would be the perfect challenge to break open the pad. I think it is abit busy and possibly over-blinged (if that is a word) it, ie went too far to try and retrieve it. Oh well, another lesson learnt.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI Kraft, white; Bazzill Basics dark brown

Patterned Paper - Authentique Uncommon; SU DSP 6 x 6 Collection

Stamps - WMS Nutcracker Sweet, Fancy Phrases, Large Doily, Dainty Doillies 2

Ink - SU Pear Pizzazz, Real Red; Memento Tangelo; PTI Fresh Snow

Die - PTI Beautiful Blooms

Doily - Martha Stewart

Butterfly - Jenny Bowlin

Brad - Pebbles

Gems - Kaisercraft

Other - Tissue paper, cork

PTI August Blog Hop

2011-08-25T14:26:00.002+10:00

The Inspiration

This sketch came from a blog called Page Maps. Unfortunately I am unable to enter this challenge as I am not a US citizen (slightly annoying) but decided to use it anyway.

Hmmm, not sure what I think about the outcome, it is possibly alittle too busy which isn't my usual style, but it was an interesting exercise. I'll leave it at that.

What you need

Carstock - PTI white, Fine Linen

Patterned Paper - PTI Men of Life, Polka Dot Basics

Stamps - PTI Damask Designs, Mat Stack 3 Collection, Sending you, Flower Fusion

Ink - SU Crumb Cake, Poppy Parade, Lucky Limeade, Island Indigo; Versacolor Orchid

Lace - May Arts

Stampin Royalty #85

2011-08-22T03:51:00.001+10:00

Another challenge blog I found on my global surfing tour. It looked like a design that would really work for me.

Then I tried to use the colours in this great photo from Moxie Fab World which I love. Wonder where it was taken? Stop dreaming, this is my interpretation

Hmm, now I look at it perhaps it needs alittle more black/brown as I don't think it conveys the light and dark of the photo. You can't really see the butterfly either. Oh well, maybe I am all challenged out, need to go back to my day job.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics Green, yellow; SU white, black

Patterned Paper - SU Greenhouse Gala

Stamps - SU Baroque Motifs, Growing Green, Dreams du Jour

Ink - Versafine Onyx Black; SU Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive; Memento Rich Cocoa

Ribbon - ?? Maya Road

An inky cupcake challenge

2011-08-21T19:40:00.000+10:00

I substituted Cajun Craze for PTI Terracotta Tile which I think worked very well. This card came together very easily and I am very happy with the results, though these are really not my colours. The wonderful thing about finding all these great challenges is I am using stamp sets I haven't touched for ages. Ah the luxury of having time off work, reality hits again tomorrow.

What you need
Cardstock - SU very vanilla, peach parfait; PTI Terracotta Tile
DSP - SU 6 x 6 pattern stack (peach parfait)
Stamps - SU Fresh Cuts
Ink - PTI Terracotta Tile
Ribbon - Pale Blue Satin
Pearls - Kaisercraft

CASEing Chupa - CASE Study #53

2011-08-21T11:56:00.001+10:00

I have had this beautiful card in my inspiration folder for a little while now, so didn't really need to go looking through the blog. I love the simplicity (a bit atypical for Chupa), colours, design, stamps, well everything about this card, so there wasn't anything I wanted to change. Unfortunately I don't have the Waltzingmouse stamp set (it is now on my wish list) but felt that SU Eastern Blooms would be a good substitute. I will definitely be making a few more cards along these lines - who knows, I may have solved my teacher present issue.

What you need
Cardstock - Bazzill Basics blue/green; SU white
Stamps - Wplus9 Backgrounds 2, Filigreed Frames; SU Eastern Blooms
Ink - Memento Rich Cocoa; Brilliance Pearlescent Jade, Orange, Coral

This must be a record ...

2011-08-21T09:05:00.000+10:00

3 challenges with 1 card - don't think I have attempted that before. I originally coloured these tulips for the recent Sweet Stop challenge, but would have had to cut it down to fit on the card, which wasn't going to happen. So when I saw the colours for Play Date Cafe, I was delighted I would be able to use it.

There maybe afew more posts today as it is a dreary old Sunday in Brisbane - perfect for cardmaking.

What you need
Cardstock - Bazzill Basics Navy; PTI New Leaf; SU white; X-press-It Blending Card
Stamps - PTI Friendship Jar Spring Fillers; Wplus9 Backgrounds 2, Filligreed Frames
Ink - SU Night of Navy; Versacolor Fresh Green; Versamark
Copics - YG11, 13, 17; RV29, 32, 55
Embossing Powder - Superior Filigree white
Ribbon - SU Pretty in Pink satin
Brads - SU

Cool Blue Greens

2011-08-20T16:00:00.001+10:00

This is my third post for today, scroll down for my Sweet Stop/Colour Throwdown and Card Patterns/ Tuesday Trigger cards

Such beautiful colours and a great sketch. As I said in my earlier post, my Verve stamps are earning their keep this weekend. I have put all my clear stamps in folders a la the Carly Roberston system, instead of stuffing them in a draw and forgetting them. I have found this system to work for me, at least for the moment.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white, Hawaiian Shores; SU Soft Suede

DSP - SU Neutrals Pattern Stack

Stamps - Verve - Fabulous You, Amazing Wishes, Floral Symphony

Ink - Brilliance Pearlescent Jade; SU Soft Suede, Island Indigo, Lucky Limeade

Ribbon - PTI Hawaiian Shores Satin

Pearls - Kaisercraft

SU Blender pen

Girly and Gutsy Tuesday Trigger

2011-08-20T13:56:00.001+10:00

Made it with a minute (literally) to spare!

I thought I had another 24 hours for this Card Patterns sketch but it doesn't help to time convert incorrectly. Love the colours and the sketch and I have been wanting to use black embossing powder on black cardstock for a while so here was my chance.

What you need
Cardstock - Bazzill Basics Petalsoft; SU Basic Black, white; Franchville yellow/green
Stamps - Verve Framed Wishes, Artful Elegance
Ink - Versamark; Versafine Onyx Black
Embossing Powder - Zing! Opaque Black
Die - PTI Turning a New Leaf
Flower and Gem Swirl - Prima
Pearls - Kaisercraft

Hope I'm not too late ...

2011-08-20T11:54:00.000+10:00

I was going through my challenge blog list at the beginning of the week and picked out afew that appealed. Fast forward to the end of the week and realised that The Sweet Stop closed VERY soon. So here is my entry in Colour Throwdown colours.

My sadly neglected Verve and Wplus9 stamps will be getting a run this weekend, if I manage to get done all that I have set myself. Let's see how good my management skills are.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics white; SU white, Barely Banana, Early Espresso, Rose Red

DSP - SU Neutrals Pattern Stack (early espresso)

Stamps - Verve Plain Jane Thank You, Dream Big; PTI Friendship Jar, Spring Fillers

Ink - SU Rose Red, Old Olive; Memento Rich Cocoa

Copics - YG 11,13,17;RV29, 32,55; W1

Felt - PTI Harvest Gold

Die - PTI Beautiful Blooms

Button - PTI

Gold Thread

Make-It Mondays and some VERY exciting news!

2011-08-18T12:43:00.000+10:00

STOP THE PRESS

Finally I have received my copy of "Card Ideas for Card Maker" - the significance?

My First Publication!!!!

They look so much better staged for publishing, but I will add the photos I submitted

We will now resume normal programming (sorry PTI)

Glitter Die Borders

For this challenge, I used this gorgeous photo from Moxie Fab World as colour inspiration, it made me gasp with the vibrant colours it incorporates.

Thanks to Erin for highlighting this very simple but stunning effect, I will definitely be using this one again. The above photo also gave me the chance to use this Girl's Paperie paper I have been unable to cut into till now.

What you need

Cardstock - SU Bashful Blue, Poppy Parade, white

Patterned Paper - Girl's Paperie Kitch

Stamps - PTI Text Style 2, Mat Stack 1 Collection

Ink - SU Poppy Parade, Lucky Limeade

Die - PTI Mat Stack 1

Glitter - TE Fire Engine Red

Ribbon - SU Bashful Blue Taffeta

JUGS #97

2011-08-18T11:54:00.001+10:00

Edited to Add: I received an Honourable Mention for this entry! YAY

This is my second post for the day (there could be a third), please scroll down for my WMS August Blog Waltz entry.

I made this birthday book for my mother, not that long ago, which I felt would qualify for this challenge. These colours are absolutely her, she really isn't a frilly and fussy girl and she is a former Home Economics teacher (sewing, cooking etc), so the decorations on the cover are particularly appropriate. I need to make a couple more in the next few weeks for my aunts in Victoria AND start to think about end of year teacher presents. Any ideas? they would be most gratefully received.

What you need
Kraft folder and inserts - PTI
Cardstock - Bazzill Basics pale green: SU White
Patterned Paper - Cristina Re; SU Urban Garden
Stamps - PTI Button Boutique, Calendar Basics
Ink - SU Night of Navy, Old Olive
Die - PTI
Buttons - PTI
Ribbon - SU(Baja Breeze)
Pearls and Ribbon - Kaisercraft
String

Waltzingmouse August Blog Waltz

2011-08-18T07:28:00.001+10:00

The August theme is Tea and Coffee

You can't have morning/afternoon tea without cake so that's what I have "brought". I was inspired by Sue Lelli's beautiful card for CR84FN36. I couldn't find anywhere to put a sentiment so left it off. The card needs something else but I can't work out what, so rather than ruin it I have stopped.

Edited to Add: As I was perusing blogland I came across this challenge (can't remember who to thank for the heads-up). Couldn't pass up the opportunity to enter, when kraft is one of my favourite colours.

(the blog is on the sidebar under challenges)

What you need

Cardstock - PTI Kraft, white; SU yellow

Stamps - WMS Nutcracker Sweet, Eat Cake

Ink - SU Crumb Cake; Brilliance Coffee Bean, Pearlescent Yellow

Pearls - Kaisercraft.

A quick card

2011-08-17T11:42:00.000+10:00

Wanted to have a crack at both of these challenges, mostly for the colours which I had thought might give me another masculine card, but sadly no. But I do like what you find when looking through long lost stamp sets.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white; SU Taken with Teal, Yellow
Stamps - SU Compliments to the Chef
Ink - Versamark; Memento Rich Cocoa
Twine - Jillibean Soup
Button - PTI

Waltzingmouse Challenge #60

2011-08-17T06:21:00.000+10:00

I have used the photo below from Martha Stewart Living (May 2011) as the inspiration for my card this week. Navy always appeals to me and thought the design lent itself to Waltzingmouse stamps.

This card is so overly engineered, it took far too long to make, with several prototypes now residing in the bin. I don't use SU Soft Sky all that often but in this case I think it calms down all the navy a bit.

I am particularly pleased with the cameo, such a beautiful image and the sentiment is one of my favourites.

Today is Show Holiday (traditional Agricultural show) in Brisbane, so nice to have a mid-week break and catch up on a bit of family time.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white; SU Soft Sky; Bazzill Basics Navy

Stamps - WMS Oval Classic Frames, You're Lovely. Cameo to Go, Cameo Maker

Ink - SU Night of Navy, Soft Sky; PTI Fresh Snow

Markers - SU Night of Navy, Bashful Blue

Ribbon - SU white organza

Pearls and Gems - Kaisercraft

Fiskars oval stencil

Casing the Contributors - CASE Study #52

2011-08-15T14:06:00.000+10:00

This is a beautiful card by Vicki Z, I couldn't find anything I wanted to add or change, just gorgeous the way it is.

What you need

Cardstock - SU black, white; Bazzill Basics pink

Stamps - The Cat's Meow Celebrating You

Ink - PTI Fresh Snow; Memento Tuxedo Black

Seam Binding; White Prismacolour pencil

Flower - Prima

Daring Cardmakers - So Kawaii

2011-08-14T06:04:00.001+10:00

So, what does this mean: Kawaii means anything that is lovable, hug-able and basically cute! Think Hello Kitty and food with smiley faces. Most of the colours in kawaii are sugary, fun and bright.

I cannot claim to have thought of this, my aunt sent me a card with the prototype on it and I just had to copy it. As a hoarder of Japanese washi paper, I jumped at the chance to be able to incorporate it in a card.

I am not really sure who will be the recipient of this card, my daughter may think it a bit passe for 8 to 9 year olds, maybe someone a little younger. It was alot of fun to make.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics pinks and reds; ? Canson shimmer card; SU Very Vanilla, black

Patterned paper - Doodlebug Love Blooms

Stamp - SU Curly Cute

Ink - Rose Red

Washi paper

Jewel flowers - Kaisercraft

Today we are off to my In-Laws 50th wedding anniversary celebration. We are in charge of desserts and knowing that my husband's family have a collective sweet tooth, I have gone with Pavlova (a delicacy (?) from this part of the southern hemisphere), baked cheesecake (a wonderful never-fail recipe from Gordon Ramsey) and Tiramisu (my aunt sent me this recipe in a plea for help).

I don't think I have shared the invitation design on this blog. I did space it out alittle more when I made them up and it did take a bit of convincing to use black ink (MIL was a florist in a previous life so it has some significance).

The card we are giving them is one from a submission call but as it is quite big, it can only be hand delivered.

ColourQ #97

2011-08-13T20:30:00.000+10:00

I had to wait until my latest delivery from SU came before I could tackle this challenge, as we don't officially get 'Pool Party' till September, but I love the colour. I also felt it was time for a bit of sewing a la Niki Estes, which I haven't done for quite some time and miss it.

I had a bit of trouble matching the Copics I have with Melon Mambo, but it actually looks better in the photo. There is some stamping on the pool party panel but hard to see.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics black; SU pool party, white

DSP - Tangerine Tango

Stamps - HA Little Stencil Flower, Delicate Blossoms; Lilli of the Valley Circle Sentiments

Ink - SU Pool Party, Melon Mambo; Memento Tuxedo Black

Copics - RV63, 66, 55; YG11,13

Buttons - PTI Aqua Mist

SU Dazzling Diamonds

Gold Thread

WMS #59 accompanies CR84FN35

2011-08-11T17:59:00.000+10:00

I don't think I need to repeat the mantra, Cassie - lavender, not happy together. But the colours I have used for this challenge are a bit more red than blue, which overcomes my problem.

Interesting sketch - I wondered whether to use patterned paper or stamps, I opted for a combination of both

This is about as vintage and shabby as I get, just can't do it, so I leave it to the professionals. Wonder who's anniversary is coming up soon, so this card can have a home? Hmmm

What you need
Cardstock - Bazzill Basics Morning Glory, Heidi; SU Going Grey
Stamps - WMS Big Day Additions, Dainty Doillies2, Gingham and Co
Ink - Memento Lavender; PTI Fresh Show; SU Elegant Eggplant
Marker - Elegant Eggplant
Die - Spellbinders Fancy Tags 2
Doily - Ellen Hutson
Roses - Prima
Gems - Kaisercraft
Kindiglitz

JUGS #96

2011-08-11T14:03:00.000+10:00

I have had this challenge on my to do list for a while, but not had the time, well the time is now and here is my entry.

Using Waltzingmouse stamps (because they were out) I tried to create a layered flower with the largest chrysanthemum, both the outline and block colour stamp. Unfortunately the outline was a little too pale on white cardstock, so it lost a couple of layers.

What you need
Cardstock - SU white, old olive, real red
Stamps - WMS Big Bloom Chrysanthemums, Large Doily (sentiment)
Ink - SU Real Red, Rose Red, Regal Rose, Old Olive, Choc Chip
Dies - PTI Limitless Layers
Pearl Brad - Kaisercraft

A great technique for a beautiful photo

2011-08-10T18:08:00.000+10:00

The challenge: colouring ribbon with Copics.

The inspiration: I want to go there!!

The card: not that different from Nichole's but I do like it

I love the idea of being able to customise ribbon like this, unfortunately mine wasn't PTI and didn't appear to work quite as well. The white edging really helps to lift the image and I love the navy flowers (thanks for the idea Michelle).

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics Navy; PTI Kraft; SU white

Stamps - PTI Botanical Silhouettes, Fillable Frames

Ink - SU Night of Navy, Old Olive; PTI Fresh Snow

Copics - B12, B99

Ribbon and Gems - Kaisercraft

August WMS SOAP

2011-08-07T18:02:00.000+10:00

There were so many beautiful cards to CASE from this month's SOAP, but settled on Jennifer Holmes' cards - AGAIN, because as she said, these would be easy to mass produce but the effect is stunning. These were the 2 that caught my eye.

I have taken elements from both, they are just so elegant.

As my embellishment wasn't that bold, it really needed the small red swirl in the bottom right hand corner (photography doesn't do the colours justice).

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white

Stamps - WMS Fancy Flourishes and Scallops and Dots; Oval Classic Frames; Cameo to go

Ink - Versacolour silver; SU Real Red; Memento Tuxedo Black

Gems - Kaisercraft

Sunday - Birthday Party No. 3

2011-08-07T07:22:00.000+10:00

Case Study is one year old - Happy Birthday!! To celebrate is a case of a case of a case, if that makes sense. For my contribution I chose this beautiful card by Amy Wanford.

The simplicity of her style really appeals to me and the colours are so subtle and gorgeous. So for my card, bearing in mind I need another 9yo birthday card this is what I came up with, using the previous Play Date Cafe palette as a starting point.

It is possibly a little sophisticated for this age but I was really happy with how it came together. This isn't the easiest stamp set to position without guidelines (or maybe that's just me) but the possibilities are endless and hope to have the time for a play at some stage.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics mid and light pink; Canson Gold; SU white

Stamps - PTI Modern Basics

Ink - SU Regal Rose; Versa Magic Gingerbread; Memenot Desert Sand

Button - PTI

Gold Thread

Birthday party No. 2

2011-08-06T10:44:00.001+10:00

Here is the second card for this afternoon, nothing like designing and creating at the last minute. These colours are just divine and remind me that Spring is definitely on the way. I was outside just before and our neighbours star jasmine is full of buds so that wonderful perfume will be with us soon.

This is for a little girl in my daughter's class, who is actually turning 8, but she is incredibly mature and intellegent, and a nice young lady. She is quite gregarious hence the BIG and BOLD (and busy) card. So by the time I had sorted the flowers out, the sentiment had nowhere to go, it's peeping out of the corner.

Edited to Add: I have just noticed that this card fits into the latest Ribbon Carousel challenge

See if I can get card No. 3 done today.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics white pink, red

Patterned Paper - PTI Pretty Pastels

Stamps - Hero Arts Sweet Threads; PTI Simple Sentiments

Ink - Memento Pear Tart; Versa Magic Pink Grapefruit; SU Rose Red; Brilliance Rocket Red, Pearlescent Poppy and Coral

Pearls - Kaisercraft

Ribbon - SU Satin

Card Patterns #126

2011-08-05T18:01:00.000+10:00

This is the start of a series of birthday cards for my daughter's 3 (yes, she has a social life) parties this weekend. 2 are indoor rock climbing, which she loves and then one which is at the movies in a Gold Class cinema ( not sure how that translates to the rest of the world but it is complete luxury. The last time - and probably only time, I have experienced this is the first Harry Potter movie, yes THAT long ago, when my daughter was a newborn. Anyway, enough moaning, this one is for the first party and her best friend, a feisty Leo so the colours appealed.

I have missed a few of my favourite challenges over the past week, so will be doing a couple retrospectively.

What you need
Cardstock - SU Rich Razzleberry, Green Galore, Whisper White
Patterned Paper - SU Tangerine Tango DSP
Stamps - PTI Round and Round, All Booked Up
Ink - SU Rich Razzleberry, Green Galore, Pumpkin Pie
Ribbon - SU Daffodil Delight Satin
Gems - Kaisercraft

Off to do some stamping with friends, looking forward to it!

Play Date Cafe Challenge #91

2011-07-26T19:42:00.000+10:00

Just a quick post tonight to get this card in before the deadline. After having spent 1 1/2 hours waiting in a specialist's surgery after school, I really need to get some jobs done before an early night. I guess that's the price you pay for seeing someone well respected and extremely good with children.

I really wanted to incorporate orange as my splash colour, and the intention had been to emboss the flourishes, but in the interests of speed, white ink. Can't get enough of the wonderful WMS July stamp release.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics black, orange; PTI white

Stamps - WMS Fancy flourishes and scallops and dots, Cameo Maker

Ink - PTI Fresh Snow; Versafine Onyx Black

Pearls and Gems - Kaisercraft

Dies - Spellbinders large and small ovals

Other - Eclipse tape

PTI July Blog Hop

2011-07-26T03:54:00.001+10:00

Another gorgeous photo as inspiration - memories of summer on a perfect winters day in Brisbane.

So the elements I took from this photo - obviously the colours and the pattern on the knee rug.

Again, I need birthday cards, more for my daughter's friends so probably not this one. I used the Guidelines stamp set (new to me) to imitate the rug and the vellum (in a very loose way) reminds me of the window.

I wanted to gently border the sentiment so adhered a thin strip of dark chocolate behind. The chandelier? well, it has been kicking around on my desk for so long, I thought it should be used before it got broken (they probably had a chandelier off camera!!)

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white, spring moss, dark chocolate, vellum
Stamps - PTI Botanical Silhouettes, Guidelines 2, Beautiful Blooms 2
Ink - Memento Rich Cocoa; Pearlescent Orange, Jade; SU early espresso
Smooch - Carrot
Die - PTI Simple Circles
Gems and Wood Flourish - Kaisercraft
Dimensional Magic

Summer Card Camp - Week 4

2011-07-23T17:13:00.002+10:00

What a shame this great course has come to an end. Initially I was attracted by the designers involved but I have learnt a great deal from Jennifer and Kristina - both technique-wise and colour combinations.

Whilst I quite like my card, I think I have put too many greens into it. I thought Kiwi Kiss was a great idea but I have placed it too close to the felt flower which is a different green. Oh well, live and learn.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white, Hawaiian Shores

Patterned paper - PTI Green Boutique

Stamps - Hero Arts Sweet Threads, Sweet Threads Thank You

Ink - SU Taken with Teal

Ribbon - SU Kiwi Kiss satin; thread

Button, Die - PTI

Gems - Kaisercraft

Other - Felt

Tuesday Trigger - Perty and Flirty

2011-07-23T11:04:00.000+10:00

Isn't this the most divine jacket, a statement all on its own. So this image said to me - yellow, black and frills (oh, and how much I would love to own such a garment). And I did say my WMS You're Lovely set would see ink again very soon.

So here is my entry

I have used this colour scheme before afew times and the black and yellow needed the grey to soften the effect a bit.

Freehand ribbon ruffling isn't my strong suit, so was a very happy girl when I found this ribbon lurking in my ribbon jar.

What you need
Cardstock - SU black, basic grey, white
Patterned paper - PTI 2008 Itty Bitty Dots
Stamps - WMS You're Lovely
Ink - Versafine Onyx Black
Punch - EK Success Acanthus
Ribbon - Taylored Expressions
Gems and Pearls - Kaisercraft

Waltzingmouse Challenge #56 with CR84FN34

2011-07-18T20:31:00.000+10:00

My goodness the weekends fly! We didn't have alot planned but were each content doing our own thing. Not hard to guess but for me, it was stamping. This is such a simple little sketch which I know I will use again, so kind of went all out with the new stamps on this one. And these graphics I just adore, makes me very wistful for summer when we have a garden full of hibiscus.

This dress form I love, a very classic 50's style ball gown (think it may get another outing for another challenge VERY soon). I wanted to use patterned paper as a background but even though my collection of pink papers is vast, none suited so went with making my own.

My initial thoughts were to hang on to this one till my daughter is a little older, but given the rate at which she is changing each day, she may get it for her birthday later in the year.

What you need.
Cardstock - Bazzill Basics light and medium pink; SU white
Patterned Paper - PTI 2008 Itty Bitty Dot Basics (Summer Sunrise)
Stamps - WMS Cameo to Go, Cameo Maker, You're Lovely
Ink - Brilliance Pearlescent Coral; Memento Tuxedo Black, Rose Bud
Dies - Spellbinders Classic and Scalloped Rectangles small; label??
Ribbon - SU Pink Pirouette taffeta
Pearls - Basic Grey

Waltzingmouse July Blog Waltz

2011-07-17T17:05:00.001+10:00

How hard can a birthday card be?? I make them all the time.... This one has given my no end of angst in terms of colour and design. This is what has evolved. I turned a little flourish into a frame in one of my favourite colour combinations. I possibly should have matted it on red to be a bit more striking. No ribbon but plenty of bling.

What you need
Cardstock - SU white
Stamps - WMS Fancy Phrases, Holiday Label No. 14, Vintage Labels 18
Ink - Brilliance Pearlescent Jade, Rocket Red
Gemstones - Kaisercraft

"Fanatical about Botanical" Moxie Fab Challenge

2011-07-17T11:26:00.000+10:00

This is the image I selected from the gorgeous collection Kath has on her blog. It reminded me of the butterflies I saw at the museum as a child, so I have tried to recreate those lovely images.

I have had these beautiful Hero Arts stamps for some time and so glad to finally have had a chance to colour them.

I will be back later with my Waltzingmouse Blog Waltz entry, though it has me a bit stumped at the moment.

What you need

Cardstock - SU Very Vanilla, Early Espresso, white

Stamps - Hero Arts Antique Engravings; SU Fresh Cuts (sentiment)

Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black, Rich Cocoa; PTI Chai

Copics - YR7,21,20; B 34,37,41; Colourless Blender; E 43, 79

Pins

Waltzingmouse Challenge #55 in Card Camp Week 3 colours

2011-07-14T20:37:00.000+10:00

Just a quick post tonight as I am running very late with this card for card camp. We have had relatives staying with us this week and while it's been lovely having them it plays havoc with card making!! I have also been preparing 50th wedding anniversary invitations for my in-laws, and that has taken up quite abit of time making sure all the family are happy with the design.

I love this colour combination and couldn't wait to use my new WMS stamps. I only realised today just how versatile these flourishes are going to be. I possibly should have gone with SU very vanilla cardstock as I had difficulty stamping onto PTI vintage cream, just need more practice.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI Vintage Cream
Stamps - WMS Big Bloom Chrysanthemums; Big Day Essentials
Ink - SU Real Red; Early Espresso (and marker), Soft Suede, Crumb Cake
Brad - ?? Franchville

Waltzingmouse Challenge #54

2011-07-08T05:19:00.000+10:00

Just a quick post this morning as we are off whale watching today! Don't know what conditions will be like as it has been quite windy the past few days, won't worry the whales though.

The sketch

Initially it said Christmas to me, but then had another brainwave to complicate things for myself and this is what I came up with.

I haven't done a card like this in a long time as they don't usually work for me, so photographed it as soon as it was finished just in case it fell apart by this morning.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white
Stamps - WMS Large Doily, Say it Loud
Ink - SU Elegant Eggplant, Pink Passion
Ribbon - SU and other
Gemstones - Kaisercraft

Summer (winter) Card Camp - week 2

2011-07-07T17:40:00.000+10:00

What a couple of weeks we have had. We have all been sick with different illnesses and of course, over school holidays. So I completely missed the first week of Card Camp, but just managed to register at the last minute.

I wanted to participate as so many of my favourite designers were involved, and I have learnt alot particularly this week with a completely new technique to me which I am very keen to try. Other things you seem to know instinctively but it is great to have it explained why it looks right, not being a graphic designer by trade. Certainly worth it if you were considering the course in the future.

Here is this weeks colour combination (hope I am allowed to use the graphic..)

Slightly hard to think of summer in the middle of winter in the southern hemisphere, but they are very cheerful, happy colours. Here is my contribution

Again, forgot the sentiment and possibly should have left it off as it didn't stamp properly (maybe a tag would have worked, oh well). Look forward to the bonus combinations tomorrow.

What you need
Cardstock - Bazzill Basics white; PTI Pure Poppy
Patterned Paper - Cristina Re gingham,
Stamps - Hero Arts Tall Flower, Sweet Threads Thank You
Copics - Y32, 35, 38; YR12, 15, 18: R24, 29, 59: YG11, 13, 15
Ink - SU Real Red; Memento Tuxedo Black
Ribbon - SU Daffodil Delight taffeta

PTI June Blog Hop

2011-06-25T16:45:00.002+10:00

And now for something completely different ...... PTI-wise that is. Inspiration from a photo is abit new for this challenge, but a very welcome one. I have had some SEI papers for awhile with this kind of graduated colour, so was delighted to be able to use them (I think it can be seen in the photo).

Whilst waiting for my daughter to finish ballet last night, I saw a gorgeous card at the newsagent, in rich tangerine colours with embossed swirls on it and gems in several colours, just beautiful, but I don't buy cards anymore...

What you need
Cardstock - American Crafts white; PTI black, scarlet jewel,
Patterned Paper - SEI Mimosa (guava, key lime)
Stamps - PTI Fancy Flourishes, Butterfly Dreams
Ink - Versamark; SU Purely Pomegranate
Die - PTI Limitless Labels
Embossing Powder - gold glitter
Gemstones - Kaisercraft
Gold Beading Wire

3 Challenges in 1 card ...

2011-06-20T15:20:00.003+10:00

I think I have made it just in time for Make-it-Monday - Rock and Roll technique. This takes me back to my first taste of Stampin Up and stamping really. It has been a downhill slide since then into addiction.

I struggled abit with the technique on the large doily, it just kept going blobby and was going to give up. The smaller ones turned out much better but probably alittle hard to see. While on a roll, I used it on the text bacground and really like the effect achieved.

Guess who forgot to put a sentiment on???

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white; SU Regal Rose, Rose Red
Stamps - PTI Mega Mixed Messages, Text Style, Delightful Doilies
Ink - SU Tempting Turquoise, Taken with Teal, Apricot Appeal, Pumpkin Pie, Regal Rose, Rose Red
Gemstones - Kaisercraft

A couple of weekend challenges...

2011-06-20T09:46:00.000+10:00

I don't usually get the opportunity to do Mojo Monday sketches but really wanted to remedy that and pull out my sadly neglected Verve stamps which I love. So I paired it with this very challenging colour scheme from ColourQ. Here are the results

Bordering Blue isn't a favourite of mine, in fact, not really sure I have the right colour as I have possibly given it away. Very happy with the results, given the unusual combination.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white, terracotta tile, scarlet jewel; SU Bordering Blue
Stamps - Wplus9 Backgrounds 2; Verve Floral Symphony, Dream Big
Ink - Memento London Fog, Tuxedo Black; SU Bashful Blue
Martha Stewart butterfly punch
Dies - Spellbinders small circles and scalloped circles
Gemstones - Kaisercraft, MME Lush

Now, for my second challenge, this weeks Tuesday Trigger

There are quite afew challenges with this colour scheme, and it is so lovely and fresh. Here is my take on it which I am pleased with.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white
Stamps - Wplus9 Woodgrain Silhouettes Additions; PTI Sending You, Floral Fusion
Ink - Memento Pear Tart, Cantaloupe, Lady Bug, Tangelo; SU Tempting Turquoise
Gemstones - Kaisercraft
Copic Multiliner

And finally, card No. 3 for One Layer Wednesday #58. This challenge was to use yellow, orange and aqua.

I have been waiting to use this lovely stamp set, I resisted bird cages till I saw this set. More Copic colouring practice, YAY!!

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white
Stamps - My Cute Stamps - Elegant Birds
Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black
Copics
Gemstones - Kaisercraft

CAS #142

2011-06-18T13:18:00.000+10:00

I think I will just make it within the deadline for this one, unfortunately won't get to 143 with 2 hours to go. Navy is my favourite colour, wear a fair bit of it both for work and leisure, so why not use it on a card. At least I have my mother's birthday card done well ahead of time. And it gave me a chance to pull out some Wplus9 stamps that have been abit neglected lately.

My next job is to start abit of scrapbooking. For some time I have wanted to do an album for my daughter of her dancing photos and we finally got them printed this morning, including some hot off the press ones from todays lesson. There should also be quite afew I can use for my Project Life album which hasn't seen much action in a while

What you need
Cardstock - SU Night of Navy, white
Stamps - Wplus9 Ever After, Filigreed Frames
Ink - SU Night of Navy, Crumb Cake
Ribbon - SU Night of Navy
Brad - SU Antique
Gemstones

WMS June Blog Waltz

2011-06-17T11:42:00.001+10:00

Edited to Add: This card was highlighted in the June Blog Waltz in Review

This month's theme - Celebrating 4th July/ Americana

I wasn't sure whether I would participate this month, because I don't really have any stamps that say Americana. As an Australian, I don't know anyone who I would send this kind of card to, and I think collectively as a nation, we are far less fervently patriotic, so don't send cards to celebrate our national day (Jan 26th if you were wondering). That said, I settled on afew other symbols which were probably more useful to me - stars, stripes, red/white/blue.

As always, in my effort to over-complicate things, I punched out some stars from acrylic. The kindy-glitz red ones worked alright, but I tried using some navy Smooch. Surprise, Surprise it didn't dry. So I have ended up stamping first then punching out the stars from navy paper (much easier).

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white; SU Night of Navy

Stamps - WMS Victorian Frippery, Say it Loud

Ink - SU Real Red; PTI Fresh Snow

Other - Acrylic, striped ribbon, gemstones, Kindyglitz

Enjoy the Waltz!!

OK .... just one more, then the ironing!

2011-06-13T13:18:00.003+10:00

The Challenges: Trigger Tuesday "Neopolitan" and CAS #144

When I saw Cath's photo, I remembered this paper somewhere in the depths of my paper collection. No idea who the designer is but thought it worked well. Makes you just feel like some ice cream doesn't it. Well, back to the school projects, I love it when things are left till the last minute. Roll on Friday as it is the start of school holidays.

What you need

Cardstock - SU Very Vanilla, Early Espresso

Patterned paper - ??

Stamps - Fillable Frames

Ink - SU Early Espresso, Regal Rose

Cork

Buttons - PTI

WMS Challenge #31 and Play Date Cafe #85

2011-06-13T12:28:00.001+10:00

Hmmmm .... tricky colours but I am up for a "make you think" kind of challenge. The blueberry colour was my stumbling block as I don't have ink that colour, and the Versacolor indigo I do have didn't go with the SU Blueberry Crisp DSP I had in mind to use. So went to the hostess 6 x 6 paper pack and used Concorde Crush instead (don't think I will be buying anything in this colour, just doesn't work for me).

I think, for once the photo makes the card look better. Had to give my new seam binding a whirl so I coloured it with Copic R85 (apparently a match for Regal Rose as suggested somewhere, long ago). And Victorian Frippery finally came out of its packaging for a run, just love the patterns in this set.

Well it's the Queen's Birthday long weekend for us, which of course means we have put off doing anything remotely resembling housework till today. Suppose we had better get started ... maybe just one more card!

What you need

Cardstock - SU Very Vanilla

DSP - SU Hostess 6 x 6 pad

Stamps - WMS Victorian Frippery

Ink - SU Regal Rose; Versacolor Indigo

Seam binding, Copic R85, embroidery thread

Buttons - PTI Sweet Blush

Gems - Kaisercraft

Less is More #19 - One Layer Frame

2011-06-12T17:29:00.000+10:00

I do like it when cards come together quickly. I hadn't used Framed since Christmas so was glad to use it again. I had difficulty with the sentiment as I wouldn't normally send a card with Dear Friend on it but it fit and I really like the font.

What you need
Cardstock - white
Stamps - PTI Framed, Delightful Dahlia
Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black; SU Real Red (and marker), Pear Pizzazz
Pearls - Kaisercraft

Colour Q #88

2011-06-12T05:32:00.002+10:00

WOW a ColourQ courtier winner!!! Thanks Arielle

This is such a great colour combination and very much looked forward to having a play with them, but the creative gods were not on my side for this one. It took a whole afternoon for it to come to anywhere near finished (I won't say come together) and even then it doesn't feel right.

I was trying for a wallpaper effect, which initially worked quite well, but then if I was going to put a chair in front of it the proportions were all wrong. So everything got chopped down (bad idea) and in frustration I added the flowers.

So I don't think I have done Arielle's great colour combination justice, but I will have a go at this palette again.

It's a rainy cold (for us) day in Brisbane and it's my Mother-in-law's birthday lunch. We settled on a piece of Swarowski crystal for her which I think she will like. Hoping to get a bit of time at the Craft Expo before that while the rest of my family go to the Lifeline Book Fest (millions of donated books resold)

What you need
Cardstock - PTI Kraft; SU Very Vanilla, Cherry Cobbler
DSP - SU Jolly Holiday
Stamps - PTI Just for You, Delightful Dahlia (sentiment)
Ink - SU Early Espresso (and marker), Soft Suede, Crumb Cake, Cherry Cobbler
Gems and Pearls - Kaisercraft

Waltzingmouse Challenge #50 and CR84FN31

2011-06-10T15:42:00.001+10:00

Ahh, my favourite colour combination to go with a classic layout, what could be easier. Well lots actually. I had wanted to incorporate Kraft into the design but it just made it look dull. Then I don't have many WMS birthday sentiments that would actually line up as a text-type stamp. But quite happy with the overall effect.

It will be for a friend at work, so went with her initial rather than another birthday sentiment. Tried to add a bit of ribbon which is my wont but alas, couldn't work it in.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics white; SU Regal Rose, Pear Pizzazz

Stamps - WMS Fancy Phrases, Large Doily

Ink - SU Pear Pizzazz, Regal Rose, Early Espresso

Gemstones - Kaisercraft

June Waltzingmouse SOAP Challenge

2011-06-10T15:14:00.000+10:00

Almost missed the deadline for this one - that's what happens when you procrastinate over what card to CASE and believe me the choice was difficult. I eventually settled on another gem from Jennifer Holmes using the doily sets.

It is simplicity itself, in colour and design. Here is my take on it.

I already had these colours out for this weeks WMS challenge so to save time, stuck with them. Thanks Claire for another great month of inspiration.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI White
Stamps - WMS Large Doily, Gingham and Co, Fancy Phrases
Ink - SU Pear Pizzazz, Rose Red, Regal Rose, Pink Pirouette, Early Espresso
Ribbon - SU Pear Pizzazz taffeta
Brads - SU, Kaisercraft

Less is More #18

2011-06-05T20:13:00.000+10:00

The Brief - Monochrome

Guess who got some new stamps this week! So I had to use them. I have been inspired by fellow blogger Cyndie at Artful Haven, who does the most amazing art work, not just the most wonderful cards. Anyway the first post I saw of hers used this stamp set, and knew I had to have it.

I am no quilter, so have no idea how to put the panels of colour together, again I deferred to Cyndie's colouring scheme. I really wanted to try shades of grey, so the Copics got a run again. It was a lovely relaxing thing to do this afternoon as we have had quite a hectic weekend with decorating a room and doing a general clean out. Oh and of course school projects.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white; SU ? Going Grey
Stamps - PTI Quilter's Sampler and Additions
Copics - W1,3,5,9
Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black

Tuesday Triggering Waltzingmouse Challenge 49

2011-06-03T16:13:00.000+10:00

Isn't this photo just divine - my chances of ever seeing it for real - pretty much nil. I love the formality of it, and the blue and white with just a touch of colour in the flowers and wall decoration are pure class! Enough drooling and onto my card, this is for my Mother-in-law's 70th birthday next weekend. I am not sure what is planned as that really is my 2 sisters-in-law department. I do know that my husband has NO idea what to get her (neither do I), so he had better think fast.

When I saw the Tuesday Trigger photo I thought this paper would be perfect - I bought it quite some time ago and I still have alot of it (should mass produce it maybe).

Not sure if this photo makes the sentiment any clearer as it is so pale, but very happy with how it turned out.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white, Spring Rain
Patterned Paper - Cristina Re ? Blue Linen
Stamps - WMS Fancy Phrases, Vintage Labels 18
Ink - SU Bashful Blue, Night of Navy
Ribbon - SUwhite organza
Antique Brad - SU
Flowers - Prima
Pearls - Kaisercraft

CR84FN30 meets CAS 141

2011-05-31T17:44:00.000+10:00

It is an absolute pleasure to see these lovely graphics. As a person who is very motivated by colour, they make my heart sing (all a bit dramatic really). Without further ado (and it's nearly dinner time), here is the card

I have been wanting to use the PTI grid paper for some time, but not done so. Well, delay no longer and I have to say it makes lining these babies up SOOOOO easy. Didn't have enough of the right sized pearls but possibly didn't need it anyway.

Had thought of putting it in the Just Add Ink challenge for "fussy cutting" but I only fussy cut once which probably isn't in the spirit of the challenge.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI Kraft, Spring Rain, Lemon Tart, Guidelines 1

Stamps - PTI Guidelines, Giga Guidelines, Fillable Frames sentiment (not sure which one)

Ink - SU Bashful Blue; Memento Dandelion; PTI Chai

Brad - ? K and Company

Pearls - Kaisercraft

Make-It Mondays - With Sympathy

2011-05-30T19:01:00.000+10:00

Unfortunately, I do require one of these cards as a friends father died after surgical complications in Germany. She fortunately, had time with her family not too long ago. Anyway, I was going to use the CR84FN colours for the week but looked too pale with the vellum I used.

As I said in my previous post today, I was looking for this stamp set for the Less is More challenge and got a bit side- tracked, nothing unusual there.

What you need
Cardstock - brown (??); PTI white, Spring Rain
Vellum - PTI
Stamps - PTI Giga Guidelines, Mat Stack 1 Collection, With Sympathy
Ink - PTI Fresh Snow; SU Crumb Cake, Bashful Blue; Memento Rich Cocoa
Die - Mat Stack 1
Ribbon - SU grosgrain white
Gemstones - Kaisercraft

Less is More #17

2011-05-30T15:17:00.000+10:00

The theme for the week - Pick a Square (from the diagram below)

So, afew thoughts came to mind, I was going to do a geometric pattern, a la PTI's Giga Guidelines but came across this set first, PTI Vintage Picnic.

And as I am trying to diligently practice my Copic skills, jumped at the chance to use one of my favourite sets.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white
Stamp - PTI Vintage Picnic
Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black
Copics - E33,35,37; YG11,13,17; R24, 29,85; RV13,14,19

Less is More - Butterflies

2011-05-26T17:29:00.000+10:00

Hopefully I have read the brief right this week, it was an honest mistake, I didn't see the one layer bit. I really shouldn't post stuff late at night.

This first card was a great idea in my head but quite uninspiring once I had made it. I wanted a gradual change in colour but don't have 3 inks that go together tonally.

This one I am happier with, lots of white space

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white

Stamps - SU Great Friend

Ink - SU Melon Mambo, Elegant Eggplant

Gemstones - Kaisercraft

Clear Spica Pen

PTI May Blog Hop

2011-05-26T05:57:00.002+10:00

Computers and a lousy internet connection are conspiring against me with this post so I will make it brief. The theme this month was flowers so with that in mind, here is my contribution.

Edited to Add (after much frustration): OK, things seem to be going a little better now, I don't know why blogger wasn't working on one computer but fine on another.

Due to blog hop day falling on our longest day of the week, school and work wise, this card was designed in my head on the way to after school care and executed very late, so there was no time to change my mind on ANYTHING. I also wanted to enter a card for the latest CR84FN challenge, hence the colours.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI Kraft, Plum Pudding, Lavender Moon, Vintage Cream

Patterned Paper - Itty Bitty Dot Basics

Stamps - PTI In Bloom, Autumn Abundance

Ink - Versamark, Memento Tuxedo Black, Brilliance Pearlescent Purple

Dies - PTI

Copics

Colour Q #85 meets WMS Challenge #48

2011-05-22T10:33:00.000+10:00

This is my second post for today, scroll down for my take on the latest One Layer Wednesday challenge.

I realised this morning I was running out of time for the latest Colour Q challenge and really wanted to have a crack at it. As I discovered I don't have Basic Grey ink I have used London Fog, probably not quite as dark but worked well.

I am not entirely sure about the sentiment but couldn't see where else to put it. Anyway better get off and do some jobs now, we were planning to go to the Brookfield show today but I don't think the weather will be kind to us and it has rained alot overnight. Sounds like the rest of the family are preparing for a trip to the movies to see 'Pirates of the Caribbean' , see what eventuates.

What you need

Cardstock - SU Choc Chip, Sahara Sand, white

Vellum - PTI

Patterned Paper - SU DSP 6 x 6 pad

Stamps - WMS Say it Loud, Large Doily

Ink - Versamark; Memento London Fog; SU Chocolate Chip

Brads - SU Pewter

Embossing Powder - JudiKins Chocolate Twinkle

One Layer Wednesday #54

2011-05-22T06:42:00.000+10:00

This week's challenge was to take inspiration from 'Cake Wrecks', specifically cakes for a baby's arrival, christening or some other occasion. This is a truly amazing site if you have a chance to browse.

This one was my choice to case.

The detail in the buttons is fantastic, and as I had button stamps that still hadn't been inked, this was the perfect opportunity.

You can tell which were the rubber stamps as they are off line and I am too lazy to get out me stamp-a-ma-jig.

What you need

Cardstock - PTI white

Stamps - PTI Button Boutique; SU Button Button; WMS Fancy Phrases

Ink - Brilliance Pearlescent Orchid, Sky Blue, Sunflower Yellow, Purple

Waltzingmouse 2nd Birthday

2011-05-21T16:08:00.000+10:00

Happy Birthday Claire, and hopefully we will say that many more times. I went with the tea bag 'bag' and could think of no more appropriate paper to use than Kaisercraft's Tea at Elsie's. The prints remind me so much of very happy childhood holidays spent on my Grandmother's farm in Western Victoria (always a treat as we lived interstate and in the city). Her morning and afternoon teas were always a full on affair, just in case someone came to visit, and they usually did.

I did notice that when I was looking for something to put on the front food-wise my WMS collection is sadly lacking in anything that was suitable, hence just the sentiment. Need to remedy that! Thanks for the challenge Claire, it brought back many sweet memories.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI White
Patterned paper - Kaisercraft Tea At Elsie's (6 x 6 pad)
Ribbon and Gemstones - Kaisercraft
Stamp - WMS Fancy Phrases
Ink - SU Night of Navy
Mini clothes peg - Craft Supplies

Waltzingmouse Challenge #47

2011-05-20T16:25:00.000+10:00

This is my second post for today. Scroll down for my Waltzingmouse May Blog Hop Post

I wanted to be clever with my border piece as so many of the design team had been, thought I'd worked out a plan, but in practice very ordinary, oh well. I don't think I am alone in this. I also should own up, at this point, that most of what makes up this card are scraps, so not absolutely sure of their origin.

What you need

Cardstock - Bazzill Basics Olive green, pink, black

Patterned paper - ?

Stamp - WMS Say it Loud

Ink - SU Regal Rose

Punch - MS Deep Edge Daisy Fan

Ribbon - ?

Flowers - Kaisercraft (dusty rose)

Gemstones - Kaisercraft

Waltzingmouse May Blog Waltz

2011-05-20T10:50:00.000+10:00

The theme this month is masculine - glad I am being made to do all these 'manly' cards as I do need afew during the year but always have to do them at the last minute.

Had I thought about this abit more I could have stamped the paper planes in green and they could have been "Thunderbirds", possibly showing my age a little bit there. I found this paper at the Kaisercraft outlet store and I think it's perfect for this challenge.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white
Patterned Paper - Kaisercraft Konstrukt Collection (Bluprint)
Stamps - WMS Free Spirit Boy; PTI Butterfly Dreams
Ink - SU Real Red
Die - PTI Tea for Two label

Less is More - Week 15

2011-05-15T20:41:00.000+10:00

Theme - Embossing

I know it's nowhere near Christmas time but you can never start on the cards too early. I bought a "mystery" box from Darkroom Door afew months back and in this amazing box (it included papers, tons of stamps amongst other things), were lots of their beautiful photo chips. This one is from their Prague collection and just reminded me of Europe at Christmas time - nothing like here.

Very happy with the results, thought maybe not very CAS (not sure I will be able to part with it when the time comes).

What you need
Cardstock - PTI black, pure poppy, white
Stamps - PTI Fancy Flourishes; Verve Glad Tidings (sentiment)
Ink - Versamark; Memento Tuxedo Black
Embossing Powder - Zing! Glitter Silver
Ribbon - SU Real Red grosgrain
Photo - Darkroom Door "Prague Collection)

Make-It Mondays - Line Frames

2011-05-02T15:18:00.000+10:00

I love this idea as it makes things look elegant and simple (and it's a frame, my all time favourite design layout).

I hadn't had the chance to use the Flower Fusion stamp sets so felt this was the perfect opportunity to do so, with 2 Mother's Day cards to make (I hadn't realised it was this weekend). This will most probably be for my Mum as she like CAS and something alittle more ornate for my Mother-in-Law. Thank goodness it was a long weekend again, as it was a good chance to catch up on a few things.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white
Stamps - PTI Flower Fusion 1 and 2, Mega Mixed Messages
Ink - SU Poppy Parade, Pear Pizzazz, Crumb Cake
Marker - Copic Multiliner 0.5
Gemstones - Kaisercraft

A Commission ......YAY!!!

2011-05-01T20:33:00.001+10:00

I made this for a friend whose stepson is getting married this weekend at Mt Tamborine (just south of Brisbane, a beautiful location). Apparently the bridesmaids are in a shade of purple, hence the colours in the card. It is no secret that this shade of mauve is a real problem to me (I think the problem is too much blue in the card base) and that is why I have added so much purple to the finished card. Anyway, quite happy with the result as is the client

So many weddings happening at the moment, not least the one on Friday night (for those of us in the Southern hemisphere). Loved it

What you need
Cardstock - SU Elegant Eggplant, Whisper White; Mauve (no idea where from)
Stamps - PTI Text Style, Mega Mixed Messages; SU Notably Ornate, Style Beautiful
Ink - SU Elegant Eggplant
Die - PTI Victorian Lace (reverse)
Ribbon - SU Elegant Eggplant grosgrain
Gemstones - Prima
Flowers - Kaisercraft

April PTI Blog Hop

2011-04-26T09:54:00.001+10:00

WOW, hasn't this monthly event rolled around quickly. Fortunately for us (and in New Zealand, I think), it is a super long weekend as we celebrated ANZAC Day yesterday and today - Tuesday - is our Easter Monday. My family have gone to my sister-in-law's farm up the coast and are off to Australia Zoo today, mainly to take my daughter again before it becomes too passe but I think the more likely reason is for my husband to take photos of animals, now that his, rather expensive camera seems to be working properly. I am at home taking care of the domestic animals, and maybe doing a little stamping as well, only a bit though!?!

Anyway, the Blog Hop has a masculine theme this month. Stamps in this department are sadly lacking for me so had to improvise abit. Father's Day is in September for us, and while there is nothing wrong with being prepared WELL ahead of time, birthday cards are what I require in the near future.

I think I am really going to love having Modern Basics in my collection - there really are endless possibilities.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI cream, dark chocolate, kraft
Stamps - PTI Modern Basics, Big and Bold Wishes
Ink - SU Early Espresso (and marker), Crumb Cake
Die - Mat Stack 1
Brads - SU Antique
Cork sheet - Craft Supplies
Pearls - Kaisercraft

Less is More - Week 11

2011-04-22T16:55:00.000+10:00

Theme - Acetate

I had a couple of ideas for this challenge but have just run out of time, so I pulled out a card I found in last weekend's clean out that I thought would suit the purpose. Not very CAS nor very new and unusual but it brings a smile to my face.

As the acetate was flaring abit in the late afternoon light I have photographed it flat.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI Acetate; SU white
Patterned Paper - American Crafts Warm Wishes
Paper flowers and pearls - Kaisercraft
Buttons - PTI Sweet Blush
Ribbon - PTI Vintage Cream
Lace - ? Maya Road

CR84FN #24

2011-04-21T11:27:00.000+10:00

These colours are so tranquil and lovely that I had to participate in this challenge. Then I remembered I had done a card in very similar colours, for a friends daughter who finished Grade 12 last year (just one of quite afew friends with children about to finish their schooling).

What you need
Cardstock - Bazzill Basics 'blue-greens'; SU White
Stamps - PTI For the Graduate, Embellishments
Ink - Versacolor Mint, Turquoise
Punch - SU
Gemstones - Zva Creative

Waltzingmouse Challenge #42

2011-04-15T17:54:00.000+10:00

Love this little sketch, so adaptable for anyone or any situation. Had to have a go.

I tried to cut out the pine needles behind the pine cones but it looked a disaster, so I have improvised with cut cardstock. No bling again, this seems to be becoming a habit.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI Kraft, Rustic White; SU Old Olive
Stamps - WM Nutcracker Sweet, Festive Folliage
Ink - SU Crumb Cake, Real Red, Early Espresso

CAS with a Splash of Colour

2011-04-15T11:40:00.000+10:00

Firstly CAS #135

This one had me completely stumped for about a week and a half. To not use butterflies or flowers which would be my go to embellishment, was hard. So decided on another old favourite

Dot Spot.

I missed the deadline for CR84FN22 so I used it on this card (alittle hard to see the green) and really liked how it turned out. And as I just ordered my Crumb Cake stamp pad it had to feature somewhere.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI white
Stamps - PTI Dot Spot, Simple Sentiments
Ink - SU Crumb Cake, Old Olive, Early Espresso
Pearls - Kaisercraft

Secondly, CAS #135

This design I combined with Heather Pulvirenti's Totally Hues challenge, always a great combination of colours.

Unfortunately my Scarlet Jewel stamp pad seems to be having ink problems, so came out abit grey but I really enjoyed the challenge of combining these colours.

What you need
Cardstock - PTI White
Patterned Paper - PTI In Bloom
Stamps - SU Printed Petals, Elements of Style (sentiment); PTI Polka Dot Basics 2
Ink - PTI Scarlet Jewel, New Leaf, Sweet Blush
Die - Spellbinders Labels 10
Ribbon - PTI Sweet Blush twill
Gemstones - Kaisercraft
Stickles - Diamond

OLW #48

2011-04-12T18:01:00.003+10:00

Edited to Add: As suggested by Katina, this also fits into the latest "Less is More" challenge, where the sentiment takes centre stage.

http://simplylessismoore.blogspot.com/

The Brief: A Sympathy card that doesn't use flowers or trees.

I have just noticed that this image does have leaves....sorry, an oversight. This card design is an adaptation of one that I have done many times for people though usually 2 layers on navy cardstock (love that stuff). Fairly happy with the result on 1 layer.

What you need
Cardstock - SU white
Stamps - SU Baroque Motifs; My Sentiments Exactly
Ink and Marker - SU Night of Navy
Pearls - Kaisercraft