Paperlicious Designs

Altered Bird House Tutorial

2012-01-27T18:21:00.002-06:00

Today I am sharing my Altered Valentine Bird Houses. I created them to match my printer's tray / shadow box I shared with you earlier in the week. I have tutorial photos from when I created my Altered Christmas Bird Houses. I didn't finish them til right before Christmas, so I decided to wait and share them this fall. But the technique is the same, so the tutorial photo's work for these as well.

**** Breaking News ****

The Je t' Adore collection from Making Memories is still available!! I just assumed since it was a year old, that it would be hard to find now. If you are interested, check out the entire line over on the Making Memories Website HERE. This line is perfect for creating shabby chic Valentine projects! Hmmmm .... maybe I need more! And I found the year old vintage images are still available as well! HERE. WOWzers ... looks like this line has some cute products as well. I'm linking you to page 2. To see the rest of the colletion, go to page 3. HERE

Ok that's enough shopping!

I LOVE all the vintage images I used. They are all by K&Company. The black words / phrase are rub-ons from my stash I've been hoarding for years ( Marah Johnson's Swatch Book Impress-ons "Bliss Designs" and Cloud Nine). I'm wondering if Hobby Lobby still sells the Impress-on rub-ons. I'll hve to check next time I"m there. It's so good to be using some of my stash up. I've been in craft heaven this week follow through on valentine idea's I've had for a long time. The flowers the cherub was holding were purple, I fixed it with my R29 Copic.

That cute little Bingo card is by Jenni Bowlin. The flowers covering part of the left lower corner of the bingo card are rub-ons by Making Memories "Je t' Adore". So are the burgandy labels, "Kisses" and "Romance", the love banner, and the patterned paper. Isn't that die across the top of the house gorgeous! It's from the Spellbinder's Fancy Tags 2 set. The roses are from Wild Orchids.

To get that shabby distressed look I inked all the edges of the paper and images, added lace, pearls and a heart shaped paper doily (house #1). I grunged up the doily on house #1 and lace on house #3 with by Golden Fresco Cream Glaze. I wet the lace (Hobby Lobby), added some glaze, and scrutched the lace. I discovered that applying the distress ink over by patterned paper with a fan paint brush grunged it up softly. It looks more natural without big strokes of ink.

Well I guess the only thing these bird house are missing are birds. Maybe I'll go back and add a few bird images. What do you think???

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Altering a Bird House Tutorial

All of bird house were purchased at Michaels except house #2. The house I'm shot the tutorial for is the most basic of my 4 Christmas bird houses (no second stories or skewed sides). You want to see them don't you, teehee. I'm not sure exactly when I'll post them. I would love it if you subscribe to my blog to get email updates, then you will never miss a single post. No worries, if you get tired of me, you can always unsubscribe. Check the side bar and enter your email address. It's that easy!

Step 1 : Paint your house in the area's that will be exposed after adding your patterned paper.

Step 2 : Measure the front of the house. Cut your patterned paper a little larger, 1/2" or so.

After trying this several times, I figured out that it was easier to cut the perch first and then the sides vs. cuting the patterned paper the exact width horizontally as the house and then cutting the hole for the perch. If your off a little it may be frustrating if it doesn't line up along the sides.

Step 3 : Position your paper over the front of the bird house making sure you have extra extending of all sides. If you have striped paper, this may be a little more challenging, unless your ok with crooked stripes.

Step 4 : Use your fingers to feel / located the end of the perch. Use a pencil to lightly draw guidelines.

Step 5 : Now this is where I made it a little complicated and simplified it with the next house. The first time, I used my exacto knife to cut cross lines and then pushed the paper over the perch. Next I cut it with an exacto knife. The second time, I just drew a pencil line all the way around the edge of the perch, used my cuticle scissors and cut. I figured it it was a little off, no one would notice. So you do which ever works for you and gets you the neatest hole.

Step 6 : With the patterned paper positioned on the front of the house / over the perch ... make a pencil mark where you want to cut straight across the bottom so that it will be flush with that bottom ledge. And then trim with your paper cutter.

Step 7 : Put the panel back on the front the house, over the perch and lined up with the bottom ledge. Turn it side ways and put a pencil line across the back of the paper to indicate where to cut the sides of the house. Then cut. Repeat on opposite side.

Now both our your sides and bottom of the house should be flush with the sides and bottom ledge. The patterned paper along the top should still be a little longer. You can barely see it ... but mine is just long enough to line up with the tip of the roof line.

Step 8 : Cut a small slit at the "V" of the roof top. Just enough that you will be able to fold the paper along the roof line as shown below.

Step 9 : Fold the paper along the roof line and use your nail to get a sharp crease.

Step 10 : Use an exacto knife and trim. Repeat on other side.

Step 11 : Use your fingers and feel for the edge of the bird house door. Starting in the middle cut push the exacto knife in and pull toward the edge. After the first 3 times you will probably be better able to tell where the edge are and will push the exacto knife in along the edge and push toward the center.

Step 12 : Use your finger to fold the paper in and create a sharp crease around the edges of the door. This will be your guideline for cutting.

Step 13 : Trim around the crease. Now if you are a perfectionist, trim just a hair inside the crease and then after you have it adhered to the front of the house, you can use a file from the Basic Grey Percision file set to sand it down and get it flush with the door perfectly. I've had my file set for years. Check it out HERE. I have used it along for altering chipboard letters and shapes. I adhere the shape to the back of the patterned paper, cut as closely as I can with an exacto knife and the file down the edges so that the paper is perfectly flush. Each file has a different shape and for example ... if you are altering the letter "e", it's going to be hard to cut the paper flush with the edges of the chipboard using scissors or an exacto knife. With one of the files you can.

Step 14 : Ink the edges and adhere the paper to the front of your birdhouse using mod podge or "regular gel medium" (found in the artist section of stores like Michaels and Hobby Lobby and made by Golden and Liquitex). What's the difference?? Mod Podge is wetter and cheaper ... Matte Gel Medium in thicker and more expensive. It can take some practice using Mod Podge with a project like this because your trying to cover a large area and it dries quick. I know what your thinking ... just pile it on. But if your paper gets too wet, it can warp and get air bubbles underneath it. The thinner the paper ... the more likely it is to warp. So I used a think layer of Mod Podge but worked quickly to get my paper on and rubbed down.

That's the basic technique. Of course it's a little more complicated if you have 2 stories or double perches. The sides and roof are easy because your just cutting rectangles.

I will be posting my Spring bird houses again in a couple of months.

I'm already thinking maybe I'll do a video tutorial later with my Patriotic bird houses. My next video tutorial is going to be a Valentine Banner. I need to keep it simple til I get the camera and editing program down. Editing made me a little frustrated with the first video.

Hope you found the tutorial helpful and inspirational. As always, if you decide to give this a try, I'd love it if you linked your readers to my tutorial and let me know so I can check yours out!

Have a wonderful weekend!!

hugs, Melisa

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Challenges

Vintage Cafe - hearts

Corrosive - "I heart You"

Sentimental Sundays - die cuts - bird house #2

Creative Inspirations - Anything Goes

My Mums Craft Shop - flowers

Show and Tell Friday @ My Romantic Home

Shabby Chic Altered Cigar Box

2012-01-25T16:56:00.003-06:00

Hello paper crafters! Today I am sharing an altered cigar box. I like this one much more than my last one because it's not so dark. I guess you can tell I'm in love with the Shabby Chic style. I have someone in my card swap group who is going to get me more of these to alter.

I did use some stamps that are REALLY old, but will list the supplies that are current below. The base was covered with My Mind's Eye patterned paper. The same paper pad I have mentioned before that I found at Hobby Lobby. This paper was really thin, so I had to be careful with Modge Podge and make sure I didn't get it to wet.

I got so excited when I found the feet and knob on top. Hobby Lobby has a section with drawer pulls and there were only a few of this style. They come with a really long metal "whatchma call it" come off the back. It's the part that you push through the hole on the drawer and then secure with a bolt. These were even way to long for a drawer though. So I had to get my sweetie to cut off a portion of that part.

I wish I could tell you who made my postcard stamp. I'm LOVIN' it. I am usually great at documenting stamps in my catalog for future reference. But ... you can find them in rubber or digital.

River City Rubber Works (This one comes as a digi or rubber)

Expressions In Ink (rubber)

Penny Black at Hobby Lobby (rubber)

I love this one by Unity (rubber)

Impression Obssession

Stampfrancisco #1

I Brake for Stamps

Butterfly image - Layers of Color
Doily stamps - My Minds Eye Gertie Collection
Pearls - Prima
Paper Roses - Wild Orchids
White Resisn crowns and other decorative element - Melissa Frances
Hat Pin - Jenni Bowlin

You can view my other altered cigar boxes HERE

You can view all of my altered projects HERE

thanks for stopping by!
Melisa

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Challenges

Creative Inspiration Paint - Pink
Sisterhood Sundays - photo inspiration
Creative Belli - fancy frame - mine is the fancy scroll frame stamped image under all the embellishments
Truly Scrumptious - the postcard, scroll frame and corner images are all REALLY old stamps
Allsorts - stick pins
Craft Your Days Away - distressing

Altered Metal Tin Tutorial

2012-01-23T17:50:00.002-06:00

Today I want to share with you a tutorial on how I altered this little Valentine gift tin.

I purchased this $1 gift card tin from Michaels. They come in a large variety of colors / patterns on the lids.

Did you know you can stamp and emboss on tissue paper? Thought I'd give it a try, and it worked!!!

I started by stamping the word "love" and embossing it, then mask it off. Next I stamped the heart and embossed. The butterfly and birds were stamped and embossed on tissue paper as well. Begin by trimming around the images with scissors but not too close because you want a more distressed look so we will be tearing it as well. Then use water on a paint brush and apply the water around the edge of the image. This will allow the tissue paper to tear easily. DON'T get it too close to your image or it will tear as well. If you do apply the water to close to the image, let it dry and try again.

I used the gesso to adhere the tissue images to the top of the tin.

Then applied more gesso around the images and over the rest of the tin. It toned down the pattern on the lid.

I stamped around the edges with a swirl using red pigment ink. The other qoutes and cupid are rub-ons and the glittery heart is a brad I cut the prongs off of.

You can view all of my VALENTINE projects HERE.

You can view all of my Altered Projects HERE

thanks for stopping by!

Melisa

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Stamps - The Angel Company

Valentine Printer's Tray

2012-01-22T17:19:00.000-06:00

Hello paper crafters. I have a corner in my studio that I would like to decorate with seasonal projects. I've been working of Valentine projects. Tonight I"m sharing a printer's tray designed with photo's of my sweetie and I from 2006. This printer's tray was purchased at Hobby Lobby for $9.99, I think. It's similar to the one made by 7 Gypsies, except the window's are in the opposite direction and it runs $19.99. Each window is 4 x 6. I have been collecting Valentine products for a long time, so it was really nice to use some of my stash on this one. All of the patterned paper used is by Making Memories "Je t" adore". I LOVED this release last year and stocked up on some of the paper and embellishments.

Window #1

Window #2

Window #3

Window #4

Window #5

Window #6

You can view all of my VALENTINE projects HERE.

Thanks for stopping by today!

Melisa

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Project Details

Patterned Paper - Making Memories "Je t' adore"

Roses - Wild Orchids Crafts

Ink - Ranger Distress Ink - Vintage Photo (used around edges of patterned paper and embellishments to distress)

Distress tool

Deckled Scissors

Golden Glaze "Fresco Cream" (brushed on paper doily's)

Heart and round paper doilies from Michaels

All the rub-ons are really old - Creative Imaginations Marah Johnson Swatch Book Impress-ons Bliss Designs except for the "If I live to be 100 ..." and "I love the way you love me" in window 6. It is Cloud Nine Designs.

Window #1

Angel cut-out - K&Company Valentine Emphemera by Kelly Panacci

Spellbinders "Fancy Tags 1"

Stamped doily with "love text" from "Love Struck" stamp set by Tim Holtz

Window #2

Chipboard - Maya Road "Scrolls Mini Chipboard" and "Decorative Scrolls Chipboard"

Chipboard heart and key / lock charms unknown. I coated them with gesso and then painted them with cream acrylic paint. Then applied the distress ink with a eye shadow applicator.

Cupid in background is from "Love Struck" stamp set by Tim Holtz

Window #3

Heart resin embellishment is Melissa Frances "With All My Heart"

Angel Digital image / cut-out - Lisa's Altered Arts

Window #4

Digital image / cut-out - Etsy Digitalimage4You

Chipboard - Maya Road

Window #5

Digital image / cut-out - Etsy Cottonfield Farms sheet #101

Window #6

Postcard - unknown

Angel - K&Company Valentine Ephemera by Kelly Panacci

"love" chipboard Fancy Pants

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Challenges

Flourishes - Anything but a card

JUGS - red / pink / white

Stamp, Scrap and Doodle - hearts

Sugar Creek Hollow - go girly / shabby chic

Dancing in Pajama's - color challenge

My Time to Craft - favorite embellishement

Papertake Weekly - Buttons, bows, bling, or blooms

Crafty Emma's Store - Anything but a card

The Crop Stop - distressing, vintage, shabby

You can view all of my Altered Projects HERE

Pink Persimmon Thank You

2012-01-18T16:09:00.000-06:00

Today I am sharing a Thank You card designed with Pink Persimmon's "Scottie Dogs" and "Vintage Banners". "Scottie Dog" comes with several different Scottie Dog poses and 3 different pattern options for the coat. So cute! And "Vintage Banners" comes with 9 different greetings you can use inside the banner.

I also want to share a new product I found. It's the "Olay unltra moisture IN-Shower Body Lotion". This stuff is awesome. After washing you apply and rinse off and it leaves your skin silky smooth. If you have dry skin ... I'd give it a try.

Hope you are having a blessed week!

Melisa

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Project Details

Stamps : Pink Persimmon “ScottieDogs” and "Vintage Greetings"
Ink : TsukinekoBrilliance Pearlescent Orchid –

Chalk : Pebbles IncPearlescent Chalks “Shimmer Shades”

Ribbon : Offray

Border Punch : Dotted ScallopEdger Punch EK Success

CuttlebugEmbossing Folder– Swiss Dots

Spellbinders : ClassicOvals Lg and LabelsTwenty One

Pearls : Zva

Deckled Scissors : Fiskars

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Challenges

I'm excited to share that this project was featured on the Raise the Bar Challenge Blog!

Annabelle Stamps - Anything goes

Raise the Bar - banner

Cardabilities - sketch

Prismacolor Pencil / Oderless Mineral Spirits Tutorial

2012-01-16T16:59:00.000-06:00

Good morning paper crafters! How was your weekend?? I had a great weekend because my friend Robin came over on saturday for some crafty time. This card was designed for this week's challenge over at SpeedyTV #3 (2012) to use pencils ONLY. So I thought I would share a Prismacolor Pencil tutorial. I know a lot cardmakers out there are using Copics, but I think there are probably some using Prismacolor Pencils as well. Below you will find some photo's show you how I colored the images before I began blending with the oderless mineral spirits and the after. The top row of each image is an example of using darker shading around the edges. It's really just a matter of practice. If you need to review the basic's then you may find my article HERE helpful. It reviews all the tools / bascic information and links.

The colors I used are Koh-i-nor pencil #14 and Prismacolor pencil #1030 for the pinks. On the samples below I used #1005 for the green and on the card sample I used #908.

When selecting colors to combine, I use a color chart. Below is an example of mine that I created using Microsoft Excel. I left room to add more colors if needed.

I begin blending from the darker area's to the lighter with the oderless mineral spirits, pulling the darker color toward the lighter. If the image is big enough, I actually turn the nib over on its side a little. And I blend in circular motions.

If your nib gets too much color on the end of it, it may not blend as well. At that point I switch to a clean nib. After the old nib has dried a little, you can sand the color off.

I hope this tutorial was helpful.

Thanks for stopping by today!

Melisa

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Project Details

Stamps : Mark's Finest Papers "Floral Tea"

Patterned Paper : My Mind's Eye Lost and Found Two Blush "Sweet" Bouquet

Die : Spellbinders "Fancy Tags Two"

Roses : Wild Orchids

Lace and Pearls : Hobby Lobby

Ribbon : Offray

You can view all of my Tea / Teacup related projects HERE

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Challenges

Sentamental Sundaes is looking for ribbon and a sentiment.

SSIC wants us to use something new - this is the first time I have used my new fancy labels die set!

Wild Orchid's challenge is Anything Goes, in addition I used roses from Wild Orchids.

Stampin' With the Dragon wants to see frames - I framed my sentiment

Fun Fold Card

2012-01-11T18:38:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone. I hope you have all had a great week so far. We had another beautiful day wit 71 degree weather, so I got out and pulled some weeds. No fun there, but I had fun after I finished. I created this fun / fancy fold card. It was created for this week's challenge over at SpeedyTV. We would love to have you join us. I used "Big Boy Toys" by Mark's Finest Papers. It's a really cute set with another truck and cute sentiments like "keep on truckin" and "Boys never grow up ... their toys just get bigger and more expensive! ".

I started with a 4.25" x 11" piece of cardstock. I scored at 3.5" from the top and then again at 2.5" from the bottom. The rest is obvious. The buttons are paper. I didn't have real ones. Real ones would have been sturdier. I only glued them on one side so that I could wrap the twine around them. I left a really long piece after tying the knot in the middle of the top button, and then used that to wrap it up.

I was trying to go for a masculine look. So I didn't want to do bows, or flowers. It was hard to come up with embellishments that are masculine. I guess less is more in this circumstance.

Before I let you go tonight I want to make sure you know about the Layers of Colors HUGE SALE!

50% OFF !! and free stamps as well .... read all about in HERE.

Thanks for stopping by and please stop by and see us over at SpeedyTV!

hug, Melisa

You can view all of my Fun Fold Cards HERE
You can view more of my Masculine / Father's Day cards HERE.

You can view more of my Mark's Finest Papers projects HERE.

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Project Details

Stamps : Mark's Finest Papers "Big Boy Toys"

Cream Cardstock : Papertrey Ink

Blue Cardstock : Bazzill

Ink : Tsukineko VersaMagic "Night Sky"

Border Punch : Fiskars

Embossing Folder : Cuttlebug "Swiss Dots"

Button Die : Memory Box "Scalloped Buttons" ( I purchased mine from Frantic Stamper)

Twine : Papertrey Ink

My first VIDEO TUTORIAL!

2012-01-09T15:22:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone. Today I want to share a tutorial on how to create this shabby chic treat basket designed using a couple of basic Spellbinder's dies. I made mine for Valentine's Day, but the basket is something that could be used for weddings, baby showers, birthdays and other holidays as well.

For this project I created my first video tutorial. You are invited to watch it over on my You-tube channel : PaperliciousDesigns .... but no laughing, teehee. Ok .... you can laugh, because I"m laughing along as well. I can tell you it's wasn't as easy as I thought it would be and I certainly hope I improve.

Here is a link to the video. I haven't figured out how to post one in a blog post yet:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlI4cabs5eg&feature=mfu_channel&list=UL

thanks for stopping by!

Melisa

You can view all of my Valentine projects HERE.
You can view more of my projects that I have used Spellbinders Dies on HERE.
You can view all of my Shabby Chic projects HERE.
You can view all of my Treat Boxes / Bags HERE.
You can view all of my project that have a You Tube Video as well HERE.
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PROJECT DETAILS

Supply List :

Spellbinders Dies Nestibilities and Grand Calibur: Classic Hearts Classic Scalloped Heart (second from the smallest) Classic ScallopedSquares LG (second from the largest)Classic ScallopedRectangles LG (largest)

Vintage Digital Images – Digitalimage4You shop on Etsy.com. The image I used is from an 8 ½” x 11” sheetthat included 9 backgrounds, called “Greetings and Kisses Vintage Backgrounds”

Pink Cardstock

Patterned Paper – My Minds Eye 6x6 paper pad – Lost & Found MadisonAvenue
White streamer paper
White 3/8” ribbon
White rose – Wild Orchid Crafts

White heart hat pins – Maya Road
White Enamel Accents – Ranger
Glitter Glue – Stickles Frosted Lace
Scalloped and Deckled Scissors – Fiskars
Wire Cutters
Aleene’s Tachy Glue

Templates / Cutting and Scoring Measurements

I'm so excited to share that this project was featured on the Paper Issues Blog!

and Passionately Artistic Blog!

2 more Valentine Cards

2012-01-08T05:00:00.001-06:00

Here are 2 more Valentine Cards I created using "The Love Chapter" art stamp set by Layers of Color! I guess you have figured out tha I LOVE this set because of all the different projects I created with it. And isn't that cupid die so cute!

Fun news - I'm working on my first VIDEO TUTORIAL! I hope to have it ready to share soon!
Thanks for stopping by!

Melisa

You can view all of my VALENTINE projects HERE.

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Project Details

Card #1

Stamps : Layers of Color " The Love Chapter"

Patterned Paper : Making Memories

Cardstock : Bazzill and Papertrey Ink

Ribbon : Offray

Create A2 card from cream cardstock. Trim patterned paper slightly smaller and adhere to card front. Stamp phrase image multiple times on cream cardstock creating a background. Trim down to 3 x 3.75”, adhere to cream cardstock and trim around edges with deckled scissors. Wrap with red ribbon and adhere to card front. Stamp love block on cream cardstock and trim down. Adhere to red cardstock and trim around edges with deckled scissors. Adhere to card front. Stamp “i love you”

on cream cardstock and trim with deckled scissors. Adhere to card front.

Card #2

Stamps : Layers of Color

Cardstock : Bazzill

Ribbon : Offray

Roses and gems : Recollections

Cupid die : Quickutz
Trim cream cardstock 4.25" x 5.5". Stamp phrase stamp vertically down left side with red ink. Stamp love block on cream cardstock, trim and adhere to black cardstock. Trim around edges with deckled scissors and adhere to card front. Create cupid with Quickutz die and adhere to card front. Add gems. Wrap with red ribbon and add red rose. Adhere panel to black cardstock and trim around edges with deckled scissors. Adhere to A2 card.

More Valentine Treat Bags

2012-01-06T05:00:00.000-06:00

Here is another set of Valentine treat bags. Designed using "The Love Chapter" art stamp set by Layers of Color. They were very easy to put together by stamping the image on the front of the glassine bags using black Staz-on ink. Adhere a bow / paper rose / and ticket. Trim patterned paper to fit inside bag.

Ticket : Making Memories Jet' Adore

Ribbon : Offray

Roses : The Wild Orchid

If you don't know about "The Wild Orchid" then you need to check out all their flowers. Great deals.

thanks for stopping by!

Melisa

You can view all of my VALENTINE projects HERE.

Shabby Chic Valentines

2012-01-05T04:00:00.000-06:00

Good Morning! I am back today with some shabbalicious cards created using some digital images I purchased from Cottonfield Farm! Lots of vintage valentines to check out. And you can't beat the prices! I paid 1.99 and got 8 images. These images are from a set called "Cupids and Fairies 2". I'm not sure if there is a way to resize them. I just printed the whole sheet and trimmed. Service was very fast. She sent me the jpeg of the entire sheet (8.5 x 11), I saved them, and printed them.

And ... I have to share about the roses. Aren't they beautiful. Last month I made my first purchase from Wild Orchids. I don't usually order from over sea's but the prices are awesome compared to Prima (sorry Prima ) and the service was great. I was surprised at how quickly they arrived. If you can find a better price on them, please let me know.

I kept these pretty simple, so there isn't a whole lot of explanation needed. I will say the I just brushed acrylic paint over a white paper doily for card #1. Hope this puts you in a shabby mood!

Have a blessed day!

hugs, Melisa

You can view all of my VALENTINE projects HERE.

You can view more of my Shabby Chic projedts HERE.

You can view more of my projects using Digital Images / Stamps HERE.

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Project Details

Vintage Valentines images : Cottonfield Farm

Roses and lace : Wild Orchids

Patterned paper : Card #1 Glitz "Beautiful Dreamer" (LOVE their supplies!)

Card #2 My Mind's Eye 12x12 Paper pad from Hobby Lobby. The paper is really thin, but you get sooo much in the paper pad, and then with a 40% off sale .... It's a steal!

Pink Ribbon : Offray

Valentine Treat Bags

2012-01-04T05:00:00.001-06:00

I have a fun set of Valentine Treat Bags to share with you today. Designed using "The Love Chapter" and "Renaissance Hearts" (the heart image) art stamp sets by Layers of Color.

You can view all of my VALENTINE projects HERE.

Stamps : Layers of Color Treat Bag #1and #2 - “The Love Chapter” Treat Bag #3- “ The Love Chapter” and “Renaissance Hearts”

Glassine Bags Cardstock : Bazzill
Ribbon : Offray
Doilies : from Michaels
Deckled Scissors : Fiskars
Cupid Die : Quickutz
Heart punch : EK Success
Glitter Glue : Stickles

Bag #1
Adhere paper doily around glassine bag, securing sides to backside of bag. Trim white cardstock to 2 1/8 x 2 3/8”. Stamp “love” image in black ink. Ink edges Mat on black and red cardstock. Trim around red cardstock using deckled scissors. Adhere to front of bag. Tie red ribbon in knot and adhere to front of bag, wrapping ends around to the back. Punch 2 red hearts and adhere to front. Embellish with glitter glue. Stamp “love” in black ink on white cardstock, trim with deckled scissors, ink edges, and adhere along the bottom of the front of the bag.

Bag #2Adhere heart shaped paper doily around glassine bag, securing sides to backside of bag. Stamp “love” collage image on white cardstock. Trim using deckled scissors to approximately 2 1/8 x 2 3/8” and ink edges with black ink. Mat on black and red cardstock, trimming around edges of red cardstock with deckles scissors. Adhere to front of bag. Create cupid using Quickutz “Cupid” die and Big Shot, from red cardstock. Adhere to center of “love” collage. Punch red hearts, adhere to front of bag, and embellish with stickles. Tie bow at top of tag and insert inside bag.

Bag #3
Adhere paper doily around glassine bag, securing sides to backside of bag. Trim white cardstock to 2 1/8 x 2 3/8”. Stamp heart in black ink along top part of panel. Ink edges Mat on black and red cardstock. Trim around red cardstock using deckled scissors Adhere to front of bag. Tie red ribbon in knot and adhere to front of bag, wrapping ends around to the back. Punch 2 red hearts and adhere to front. Embellish with glitter glue Stamp “love” in black ink on white cardstock, trim with deckled scissors, ink edges, and adhere along along the bottom of the front of the bag. Stamp “I love you” on white cardstock. Trim with deckled scissors and ink edges. Adhere to front of bag.

Teacup shaped card

2012-01-03T05:00:00.000-06:00

Good Morning paper crafters. Today I want to share another sample using my free Teacup Template. You can download my free template HERE. I have a Vintage Hat template as well. Scroll down to bottom left side bar to see all my templates. It is easier if you do not use the template open. I have found it easier to create a a pattern out of cardstock that I can use over and over again by tracing around the edges. Begin by folding the cardstock in half. Lay the teacup pattern with the top of the cup along the fold, and trace around the edges with a pencil. Trim. I created mask for the handle and bottom of the teacup then stamped the background image. Doodle around the edges with a pen. Stamp sentiment and punch with oval shape. Doodle around edges and adhere to front of card. Punch butterflies, doodle around edges and color center black. Adhere to card front and add black glitter.

You can check out a really fun Alice and Wonderland version designed by Scrappy Sugar Girl HERE.

Here are a matching hat and purse. These are pre-cut dies from Creative Cuts and More.

Thanks for stopping by!

Have a great week,

Melisa

You can view all of my Tea / Teacup related projects HERE

You can view all of my shaped cards HERE

Gate-fold Card Tutorial

2012-01-02T05:00:00.002-06:00

Hello stampers. I'm back today with a gate-fold card designed for Speedy TV's Challenge #1. I hope you will join us. I used Trip to Lancaster by Mark's Finest Paper.

Check out the step-by-step tutorial photo's below.

I over-lapped the images slightly. I had to cut down along the horses back so that the fence would fit where the images over-lap.

If you are inspired to create a similar gate fold card link me to it. I would love to see what you come up with!

Have a great night!

hugs,

Melisa

You can view all of my Fun Fold Cards HERE

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Project Details

Stamps : "Trip to Lancaster" by Mark's Finest Papers

Patterned Paper : My Mind's Eye Blush "Sweet" Eiffel Paper

Gem swirls : Prima

Begin with a 4 1/2" x 11" sheet of cardstock. Find the center at 5 1/2" and add light pencil marks 2 1/4" to each side of the center point. Don't draw the pencil lines all the way down. I did it to show you where you were going to score. Score.

Fold both sides / gates in. They will overlap one another. Measure over 2 1/4" from the fold lines on both sides as shown on panel A. Draw a very light pencil line from top to bottom at this point. This will serve as a guideline for cutting later.

Cut patterned paper panel slightly smaller than 2 1/4" x 4 1/2" x 2, ink edges, and adhere to card front as shown on B.

Stamp images on both sides as shown above and below.

The goal was to position them so that the horse's head over laps the fence slightly. Let me give you some measurements and you can put a light pencil line to guide your stamping : The lowest point of the carriage image should a little more than 1/4" ( 5/16" to be exact) from the bottom edge of the panel. The lowest part of the fence line should be 1" from the bottom edge of the panel.

Cut along the light pencil line til you reach the image. Trim around images, then resume cutting along the pencil line again. When you go to shut it, the fence line needs to lay behind the horse's head. But to make it fit, you will have to cut in and down the back every so slightly.

Ink edges of card. Adhere back of card to black cardstock. Trim around the edges using deckled scissors. Embellish with gem swirls.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T19:26:00.001-06:00

I hope you all have a safe and happy new year!!!

hugs, Melisa

Stamps : Mark's Finest Papers "Peaceful Nuthatch"

Punch : Martha Stewart

Patterned Paper : The Robin's Nest "Glitter Winter Snowflake"

Die : Spellbinders Die "Label Two" with the Grand Calibur

I loved this winter background I found at a local scrapbook stores so I started searching for the manufacturer since I had never heard of them. Looks like they have scrapbook kits, but also sale items individually as well. Here is their home page if you want to check them out as well.

You can view more of my projects that I have used Spellbinders Dies on HERE.
You can view more of my Mark's Finest Papers projects HERE.
You can view more of my Winter projects HERE.

Pink Persimmon's "Singing Birds" Cards

2011-12-30T05:00:00.002-06:00

Today I'm sharing a card created using Pink Persimmons "Singing Birds". I thought the little "puffy" bird house worked perfectly with the image. You could actually cut and create your own little bird house as well.

Have a great day!

Melisa

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Project Details

Pink Persimmon "Singing Birds"
Patterned Paper : My Mind's Eye
bird house : "Puffies" by KI Memories

Spellbinders "Labels Eight" and the Grand Calibur
Markers : Copic
Border Punch : Fiskars
Ribbon : Offray

You can view more of my projects that I have used Spellbinders Dies on HERE.
You can view more of my Pink Persimmon project HERE.
You can view more of my projects using Bird images HERE.

Valentine Treat Boxes

2011-12-29T05:00:00.002-06:00

I'm ready to start sharing Valentine projects! I meant to get started in December, but just ran out of time and energy to write the post. I stacked 4 boxed together and secure with a ribbon. Isn't that little cupid die too cute!

I hope you are inspired to get started on some Valentine projects of your own.

Have a blessed day!

Melisa

You can view all of my VALENTINE projects HERE.

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Project Details

Stamps : Layers of Color “The Love Chapter”

Boxes : Creative Cuts and More

Chipboard letters : The Paper Studio

Punch : EK Success

Die : Quickutz

Glitter Glue : Stickles

Ribbon : Offray

Fold and adhere pre-cut, pre-scored boxes. Stamp background images on cardstock, trim and adhere to box front. Paint chipboard lettersand adhere to box front. Punch hearts, add glitter glue and die cut cupid. Adhere to box front. Stack four boxes and tie with ribbon.

Shabby Chic Winter card

2011-12-27T20:40:00.000-06:00

Hello Papercrafters! I hope you all enjoyed your Christmas. We had a wonderful Christmas. Tried some new recipes. Any time we cook ... there are always mistakes and lots of laughs. My tree's are still up. I haven't recovered enough to tackle the chore of taking down all the decorations yet. I"m trying to get back into a routine of crafting and blogging. I actually have lots of projects I made before the holiday, but just have to write the post. Today I"m sharing a card designed using "Peaceful Nuthatch" by Mark's Finest Papers. The challenge this week over at Speedy TV is winter or blue. We hope you will join us. You can check out all the Speedy TV challenges on the MAIN PAGE. Then go to the FOSTV Challenges button and select the challenge from the drop down menu.

Thanks for stopping by!

hugs, Melisa

You can view more of my projects that I have used Spellbinders Dies on HERE.
You can view more of my Mark's Finest Papers projects HERE.

You can view more of my projects using Bird images HERE.

You can view all of my Shabby Chic projects HERE.

You can view more of my Winter projects HERE.

You can view more of my projects that list the Copic colors listed HERE.

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Project Details

Patterned Paper : Webster's Pages Your Life. Beautiful. from 2009

Copic Markers : Pinecones (E43, E29), Pine Needles (E81, YG95), Bird (C1, C3, E31, E33)

Chalk : Pebbles Inc.

Snowflake Punches : Martha Stewert

Distress Ink : Vintage Photo

Glaze : Fresco Cream Golden

Deckled Scissors : Fiskars

Die : Spellbinders "Standard Circles" with the Grand Calibur

I do want to share that I made my white paper doily cream using the Fresco Cream Glaze by Golden. You might be able to get the same effect by watering down some cream acrylic paint. Then I grunged it up with the Vintage Photo Distress Ink. I dapped it on here and there and used my finger to smear it around.

Altered Candle for Christmas using Pink Persimmon stamps

2011-12-21T15:00:00.000-06:00

Good afternnoon everyone. I'm back today with another Pink Persimmon project I created a while back. I actually added it to a gift basket that my co-workers were putting together. So I hope whoever won the drawing is enjoying it!

Stamps : "Holly and Mistletoe"

have a blessed day!
Melisa

You can view more of my Christmas themed projects HERE.

You can view more of my Pink Persimmon projects HERE.

You can view all of my Altered Projects HERE

Christmas tag using Pink Persommon stamps

2011-12-20T19:10:00.000-06:00

Hello paper crafters.

"Merry Christmas Tree" by Pink Persimmon. I simply stamped and embossed the image, then adhered velvet and lace along the bottom edge. The image is so beautiful, you don't need much more!

So how are your holidays plans coming alone?? Do you have all your gifts wrapped??? I'm just wondering if any of you have any special Christmas recipes to share?? I need to get my grocery list together and get that part of my shopping done tomorrow. I think I'm going to try and go at 6-7am, and avoid crowds. We don't eat a lot of sweets, so I really don't have that much cooking to do. Does your family have a particular recipe that you cook up every year for Christmas?? I would love to hear about them if you do.

big holiday hugs to you all!

Melisa

You can view more of my Christmas themed projects HERE.

You can view more of my Pink Persimmon projects HERE.

Merry Christmas from our home to yours!

2011-12-17T16:40:00.002-06:00

Hello friends. Just wanted to share some photo's of our tree's and wish everyone a Merry Christmas! It was so nice to be in our home this year (last year we were in a rental) and get all the Christmas decorations out. I had forgotten how much work it was though. I missed my daughter helping me. Nicole if you are reading this .... Christmas will not be the same without you this year. I love you and miss you!

"1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed... 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) 5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with Child" (Luke 2:1, 4-5).

"6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn" (Luke 2:6-7).

"8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night... 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people" (Luke 2:8,10).

"And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger" (Luke 2:12).

"Glory to God in the highest, and on Earth peace, good will toward men" (Luke 2:14).

"15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into Heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the LORD hath made known unto us. 16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger" (Luke 2:15-16).

If you have shared photo's of your tree, I would love to see them! Just email me a link, or leave me a comment with a link!

Merry Christmas!

ATC Mixed Media Background Tutorial

2011-12-08T18:13:00.000-06:00

Artist Trading Card 2.5" x 3.5"

I have to tell you that the best part of these 3 ATC's for me was creating the backgrounds! Back in Oct, my friend Deb and I got together for a mixed media day and experimented with some different techniques. I have a really great book, "Surface Treatment Workshop" and it has some fun techniques in it. Most of the technique's I have either tried or seen before, but all the projects using the techniques in the book were very inspiring. In addition, it's nice to have 1 book with so many techniques. I tend to forget things, so even though I've done something before, looking through the book reminds me / inspires me to do it again. Artist Trading Cards are great size for just practicing since they are only 2.5" x 3.5" and fast to create. If you are new to Artist Trading Cards, then you can take a look at a basic article I wrote way back in 2010 HERE. And view all of my other ATC's HERE.

The first one was a "rinse aid resist" technique. It's the rinse aid that is found on the dish washing liquid aisle at the grocery store. Mine doesn't look as good as the projects in the book, but I still like how it turned out. I used 3 different color acrylic paints and 140lb water color paper. hmmmm .... I knew you were going to ask me what colors, teehee. I only wrote I used 3 colors, but not the colors, teehee. Well obviously pink and yellow.
1. Apply coat of paint and while it is still wet, let the rinse aid drip down the card from top to bottom.
2. Let the paint dry and then wipe off the rinse aid. Mine didn't resist so well, so I definitely want to try this one again. So I added more paint and rinse aid, dried and wiped again. I can only assume at this point I did the process again with a 3rd color since I wrote I used three colors, but I can't remember. My background is the result of a technique gone bad, teehee. So I just kept trying it with a different color and this is what I ended up with.
3. Stamp it with a script image and with orange ink. My girl with wings and the words are from Lisa's Altered Arts. The image is kinda fuzzy, if that makes sense. I don't know if they are intended to look that way or if it's my printer. My printer doesn't work that well at times. I guess I"m just used to clean crisp images.

4. Trim words (Lisa's Altered Arts). You can create your own with your computer.

5. Doodle around work blocks and edges.

6. Add button.

Artist Trading Card 2.5" x 3.5"

I have been using paste for a couple of years. After seeing a project in the book that had raised circles using the paste and the colors aqua / red, I was inspired to create this background. Paste are found in the artist section at your local craft stores. I've used Aquitex and Golden and both work fine for me. It comes in white. You can add acrylic paint to it. Or spread it on and after it dry's add paint over it. It's fun to use with stencils. I punched circles in heavy cardstock to use as a stencil. You can get lots of fun stencils from Layer's of Color and from Crafter's Workshop.

1. Spread modeling paste over the entire background with a palette knife (also found in the artist section of local craft store).

2. After dried I used my self-made circle stencil and applied more paste.

3. Apply paint (red, aqua, and a dab of white) until you get the distressed look you want. I often use fan brush to add little wisp of color here and there.

4. Distress using a script stamp. The one I used was already distressed (Prima). It's a 2 1/4" x 2 3/4" clear stamp. I swiped ink over parts of the stamp and added small parts of the image hear and there. see below.

5. Hand cut grass, flower, and banner from patterned paper, then doodle around the edges.

Another great book with fun background idea's and great ATC inspiration is "Artist Trading Cards Workshop" .

Artist Trading Card 2.5" x 3.5"

The above background was created using a paper towel. I've read can also use a baby wipe, I've just never done it. Paper towels are more readily available at my house, thank goodness, teehee.

1. Wet paper towel and lay over some watercolor paper.

2. Add watered down acrylic paint. Just enough so it is thin enough to be absorbed easily. The paint bleeds together a little.

3. Pick up your paper towel and lay it down somewhere to dry. I use wax paper.

The paint will bleed through on to the watercolor paper and you can use this for the base of backgrounds as well.

4. Lightly swipe more paint here and there if needed to get the distressed look you want. Whenever I do this, I use a fan brush.

5. Trim down to slightly smaller than ATC. Stamp randomly with a script image and black ink. Adhere to black cardstock.

6. Tear and add a patterned paper.

7. Add cut-out butterfly's and words.

8. Doodle around the edges of word blocks and patterned paper. I just realized I forgot to doodle around the sides, so I will be going back and adding that.

I hope you are inspired to experiment with some new background techniques!

I would love to see ATC's you create using these techniques. Email my a link when you have posted yours.

hugs,

Melisa

You can view more of my Artist Trading Cards HERE.

You can view more of my Mixed Media projects HERE.

You can view more of my projects using Modeling Paste HERE.

You can view more of my tutorials HERE.

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Modeling paste

Palette Knife

This is a fancy set. I just own one ... the first one on the left. You can buy just the one at local craft store

LOC Dotted Dahlia's Card

2011-12-07T05:30:00.000-06:00

Good Morning! Today I have a simple layout for you. Designed uisng one of NinaB's new stamp sets, "Dotted Dahlia's" from Layer's of Color. I love these images. Clean lines and easy to trim allows you to add dimension by layering and popping up some of the center petals. I would say the card was quick, but the coloring took a while. But .... if you paper pieced it, you could whip it out in a jiffy! In fact it's so simple, I don't need to write up instructions for this one. I will tell you that I used Copics : RV00, RV55, and RV19.

And my beautiful wish to you is that you have a wonderful day!

hugs,

Melisa

Christmas card with an Angel using Spellbinders Die

2011-12-06T05:00:00.000-06:00

Good morning Paper Crafters! Today I'm sharing another quick and easy Christmas card, well except for the coloring. That probably takes longer than anything. But the time and effort are worth it.

Have a fabulous day!

Melisa

You can view more of my Spellbinders projects HERE.

You can view more of my Christmas themed projects HERE.

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Project Details

Stamps : Layers of Color "Holly Angel" cling rubber art stamp, "Sentimental Banners" clear art stamp set.

Deckled scissors : Fiskars

Die : Spellbinders Fleur de Lis Rectangles

Grand Calibur

Embossing Folder : Cuttlebug Holly Ribbons

Glitter Glue : Stickles

Adhere card (4.25" x 5/5") front to back of larger red cardstock panel. Trim around edges with deckled scissors. Trim white cardstock 4.25" x 5.5" and 3" x 3 3/4". Emboss using Big Shot and Holly Flourish embossing folder. Cut decorative frame using Grand Calibur and Fleur de Lis Rectangle. Layer these 3 as shown and add glitter glue around edges of smaller panel. Set aside to dry. Stamp Holly Angel and banner. Color and trim. Embellish angel wings with glitter using a 2-Way fine point glue pen. Before applying glue, wipe wings with Embossing Magic or dryer sheet. After sprinkling on glitter, use a tooth pick or paper poker to clean off glitter on any stamp lines. Adhere angel and banner using pop dots in the middle. Embellish with glitter glue around banner edges.

Let's swap Christmas cards!

2011-12-05T05:30:00.000-06:00

Hello Paper Crafters! I'm back today with a birthday card I think would be nice for a guy. Designed using "A Trip to Lancaster" by Mark's Finest Papers. I designed it for this week's challenge over at SpeedyTV to use Silhouettes. Hop on over and join us this week. You can find all of the challenges on the main page HERE. Just toggle the mouse over "Friends of SpeedyTV" button in the upper left corner. You should get a drop down menu and then select the challenge your interested in. Let me know if you play along, I don't want to miss your entry!

So I'm off to the post office today to send out my first round of Christmas cards. I would love to swap Christmas cards with you. Just email me your address to luv_2_stamp@yahoo.com

have a great week!

Melisa

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Project Details

Stamps : A Trip to Lancaster by Mark's Finest Papers

Patterned Paper : My Mind's Eye 6 x 6 paper pad "Portabello Rd"

Cut-out - really old from my stash. Daisy D

Corner die : Sizzix Architectural Accent #4

Ribbon : Offray

Lace : Hobby Lobby

Funny Card

2011-12-04T05:30:00.000-06:00

I'm easily amused ... but this sentiment just cracks me up! teehee. Not so funny for my husband though! Now if I'd only had a stamp of a Yorkie, it would have been even better. This image and sentiment is by B-Line Designs. I LOVE their stamps, but they are not so easy to find. They don't have their own online store, so you have to either google, or ask your local stamp store to order them for you. My local stamp store in Jacksonville use to carry B-Line Designs. Oh how I miss "A Small Cleverness".

I did google and found an online store that you can buy them from "Stamp Diva", but I have never ordered from them. If you hop over, take a minute to check out Charlotte Ryan! Just scroll down. She is soooo cute. I have her and a little tricycle. I hope to use them very soon.

Here is a blog post that has several other cute idea's for using this little guy HERE.

I designed this one to swap with my local card swap group "SASSSC" (Sassy) and decided to go with a shabby look. I recently ordered the lace and rose from "Wild Orchid Crafts". The prices for their paper roses are so low, so I stocked up on lots of colors. You can never have too many roses, if you like shabby chic.

Have a great week!
Melisa

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Project Details
Stamps : B-Line Designs from their "Pick Me Up" catalogue "Rover, BB508D" and "Ruff Quartet BB512E" this one comes with 4 different sentiments - "I ruff you", "Having a ruff day?", "I plant the garden, my dog digs the holes" and the one I used on the card.

Paper Flower and lace : The Wild Orchid
Black ribbon : Offray
black streamer
deckeled scissors

I actually sewed the party streamer to create a ruffle. The rest is pretty self-explanatory.

Shabbalicious!

2011-12-03T07:29:00.000-06:00

Good Morning! Today I have some Shabby Chic inspiration for you using some of my favorite things, glitter, lace and doily's. By the way ... I have to mention my new doily die ... it is AMAZING! And now I can cut doily's any color I want! I have't had time to use it yet. It's by Cheery Lynn and you can check it out HERE. Ordered mine from Frantic Stamper. Their store is not easy to navigate, but she has sooooo much stuff. I was having a problem finding somewhere that carried ink pad refills, copic refills, stamp storage sheets all at the same store. So when I need basics like that it's easier to order from one place and I usually throw in a couple of extra's, like this die as well. There is no online ordering. I email mine, but calling is an option as well. You can give them your payment info over the phone or have them send you the bill via paypal.

Ok, back to the projects. This is a matching set (obviously). But the one above is a tag with one of those glassine bags glued to the front. And there is another little tag that pulls out of it. I think is perfect for a gift card holder. I really love the Vintage Postcard using on the card. Even though it has christmas themed script on it, you can easily use it for other themes as well!

Sorry I didn't have time to share step by step instructions this time. But here is a supply list and I think it's self explanatory on how I assembled it.

Have a blessed day!

hugs, Melisa

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Layers of Color "Sentimental Banners", "Royal Birds", and "Vintage Roses" art stamp sets and Vintage Postcard cling art stamp

Spellbinders : "Ribbon Banners"

Maya Road "Decorative Scrolls"

Ribbon : Hobby Lobby

Glitter : Martha Stewart

Border Punch : Fiskars

Christmas Gift Bag / Box with a Reindeer Image

2011-12-02T05:30:00.000-06:00

**** OOPS! so sorry. I just realized what the title said when this one went out to everyone. I just changed it. Originally this post was set up for a LOC blog hop, but it was cancelled. Sorry if it was misleading ***

Good Morning! Today I am sharing a gift set designed for Stamper's Sampler Magazine and I'm proud to say, it made the cut!! In fact I have several projects in the Oct / Nov issue. I used Creative Cuts and More pre-scored / pre-cut die cuts and Layers of Color Reindeer Waltz.

Gotta vent for just a minute .... I have to go to my husband's Work Christmas Dinner. Notice I said "have", teehee. This is going to be torture for me, seriously. I don't know anyone, and I'm not exactly a social butterfly. I'm happy in my studio creating and could go DAYS, without ever leaving the house. My favorite get togethers are when someone comes over to craft with me ... and I don't have to leave the house. Say a prayer for me, I know I'm a grown women, but I have a little social anxiety.

How is the Christmas shopping and putting up the decorations going?? We started putting up the decorations the day after Thanksgiving. I have 1 tree done. I have a second tree in the diningroom I have to put up. I found the CUTEST christmas salad plates really cheap at Walmart. They have little holly branches and birds on them! I will try to take photo's soon and share.

Have a great day!

hugs, Melisa

You can view more of my Spellbinders projects HERE.

You can view more of my Christmas themed projects HERE.

You can view all of my Treat Boxes / Bags HERE.
You can view all of my Container / Gift Boxes HERE.

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Project Details

Christmas Gift Bag

Stamps : Layers of Color "Reindeer Waltz" (deer)

Creative Cuts and More - Square Bag 01
Spellbinders : Fluer de Lis Doily Accent
Rub-ons : Making Memories (sentiments & flower)
Ribbon : Creative Impressions

Fold pre-scored corners of gift bag and adhere. Stamp reindeer image on beige cardstock x2. Trim label with one of the reindeers as shown using Spellbinders die. Hand cut all of second reindeer out except for antlers and adhere over the reindeer as shown. Apply rub-ons and adhere to front of bag. Tie handle with ribbon.

Christmas Gift Box

Stamps : Layers of Color “Reindeer Waltz” (deer)

Creative Cuts and More - Square Box #10

Rub-ons : Making Memories (sentiment & flower)

Hand cut tag

Ribbon : Creative Impressions

Fold pre-scored corners of gift box and adhere. Hand cut small tag, stamp reindeer and add
rub-ons. Wrap box with ribbon and add tag.

Little Birs with Big Mouths

2011-11-30T05:00:00.003-06:00

Here is another one using the set I talked about on monday. I found this really cool patterened paper sheet by Bo-Bunny that was 12x12 but divided into all these smaller scenes or cut outs. I knew this one was just perfect for a bird house.

Thanks for stopping by!
More Christmas projects coming tomorrow!
hugs, Melisa

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Project Details

Stamps : Mark's Finest Papers "Little Birds With Big Mouths"

Patterned Paper : Melissa Frances (brown), Bo-Bunny Gabrielle Cut Outs

Ink : Pearlescent Brown Tsukineko

Ribbon : Offray

Watercolor Paints

Trim brown cardstock 4 x 6 and adhere to card front. Trim patterned paper (Melissa Frances) slightly smaller than card front. Ink edges (Tsukineko Pearlescent Brown) and adhere to card front. Trim patterned cut-out (Bo-Bunny “Gabrielle Cut Outs”) and wrap ribbon around bottom / tie bow (Offray), and adhere to card front. Stamp image (Mark’s Finest Papers “Little Birds With Big Mouths”)on watercolor paper (Canson 90lb) with water-proof ink (Palette Noir). Color with watercolor pencils, trim, and adhere to card front.

Christmas cards with Poinsettia images using Spellbinders Dies

2011-11-30T05:00:00.002-06:00

Good Morning! I'm here today to share a bunch of cards I have made using Layers of Color Poinsettia Frame. This cling art stamp is compatible with Spellbinders Labels Sixteen. I also used

Fluer de Lis Accents. My sentiment is from the Happy Wishes clear art stamp set. I noticed that I had 2 cards using this set I had never shared. I added 3 others from previous post at the bottom. I also realized I have not been blogging as much as I had planned and I still have more Christmas projects to share. So I"m going to try and use the next week to blitz you with Christmas and then start posting some Valentine projects.

You can view more of my projects that I have used Spellbinders Dies on HERE.

You can view more of my Christmas themed projects HERE.

Previously posted Poinsettia Frame cards :

Thanks for stopping by!
hugs
Melisa

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Project Instructions

Card #1

Stamps : Layers of Color Poinsettia Frame cling art stamp and Happy Wishes art stamp set

Ink : Tsukineko Momento Tuxedo Black

Markers : Copic

Spellbinders Nestibilities Labels Sixteen and Fluer de Lis Doily Accents with the Grand Calibur

Patterned Paper : Basic Grey (red), Bo-Bunny (green), and Prima (off white)

Glitter Glue : Stickles

Buttons : white pearl - Dress It Up, glittered bird : Favorite Findings - Joanns

Ribbon : Offray

Trim off white cardstock 4 ¾ x 5 ¾”. Trim red patterned paper 4 3/8” x 4 ¼” and adhere to green patterned paper. Trim around edges of red patterned paper creating a green border. Adhere to off white panel. Cut / emboss green patterned paper using Spellbinders Fluer de Lis Doily border and corner accents. Adhere decorative border across panel as shown. Tie a know in center of off white ribbon and adhere across card as shown, tucking ends under panel. Adhere panel to front of card. Cut loop off back of off white button and adhere over knot in center of ribbon. Stamp Poinsettia Frame on off white patterned paper and color with markers.

Stamp sentiment. Adhere to front of card. Embellish with glitter glue and glittered bird.

Card #2

Stamps : Acanthus Leaves and Touch of Elegance art stamp sets,

Poinsettia Frame cling art stamp by Layers of Color

Ink : Brilliance Pearlescent Chocolate, VersaMark, Momento

Bamboo Leaves by Tsukineko

Cardstock : Bazzill Glitter Glue : Stickles

Spellbinders : Labels Sixteen with the Grand Calibur

Sentiment : Flower Soft

Cut brown cardstock 5 ½” x 5 ½” and adhere to front of card. Cut Cream cardstock 5 ¼” x 5 ¼” and stamp acanthus leaves in green ink. Ink edges. Stamp squares from Touch of Elegance in brown ink and then cut diagonally to create corners. Adhere to corners, add pearls, and glitter glue. Wrap brown ribbon around center of panel vertically and adhere to back side. Adhere panel to front of card. Stamp Acanthus Leaves with VersaMark on cream

cardstock. Then stamp Poinsettia Frame over this. Stamp Poinsettia Frame on old book paper. Cut the frane on the cream cardstock using Spellbinders Labels Sixteen and Grand Calibur and ink edges. Adhere to red cardstock and trim around edges. Color the leaves green and border circles brown. Color Poinsettia flowers on the text paper then cut around the petals. Paper piece these on top of the cream panel. Adhere panel to front of card. Layer sentiment as shown. Add brown bow.

Cards with bird images using Spellbinders Dies

2011-11-25T18:49:00.000-06:00

Hello! I hope all of you enjoyed your Thanksgiving. We had a wonderful day which wrapped up about 11:00pm with me as the Queen of Canasta! Yep ... I took the boys down. teehee. And over the weekend I spent saturday with my friend Deb. She loves mixed media as well, so we worked on our She Art. I'm going to get brave enough to share my canvas's one day. Not familiar with She Art ?? It's simple art with a girl on it and some words that are meaningful to you. I took She Art #1 from Christy Tomlison back in the spring. If you are interested in mixed media, I recommend the class and you can check it out HERE. I ended up starting a Christmas themed canvas. Almost done, just need to add a few more details. I also picked up some wooden birdhouses at Micheals, hoping to have time to alter them in a Christmas theme.

Today I'm sharing a couple of cards I created using stamp sets by Mark's Finest Papers. The one above uses an image from a set called Little Birds with Big Mouths. MFP is going through some changes right now, under new ownership, and honestly, I'm not sure which of the old sets they will be adding back on, or which ones are discontinued. But, I had already designed my Nov cards back in Oct, so I'm going to share anyway.

This set was in the store last week, but not there now. It's called Chicken Scratch. I designed this one using a clean and simple Take Ten sketch for a submission. I'm also using today for the sketch challenge over at StampTV. You can check out this weeks Freinds of SpeedyTV challenge HERE. I hope you will join us!

Have a great week!
hugs,
Melisa

You can view more of my projects that I have used Spellbinders Dies on HERE.
You can view more of my Mark's Finest Papers projects HERE.
You can view more of my projects using Bird images HERE.

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Project Details

Card #1

Stamps : Mark's Finest Papers - "Little Birds With Big Mouths"

Patterned Paper : K&Company, My Mind's Eye

Spellbinders - Classic Ovals LG, Classic Scalloped Ovals Lg

Decorative Scissors : Scalloped Fiskars

Water Colors and Copic markers (flowers and leaves)

Ink : Distress Inks - Old Paper, Tsukineko Pearlescent Chocolate, Palette Prusian Blue

Card #2
Stamps : Chicken Scratch Mark's Finest Papers
Spellbinders : Lacey Squares with my Grand Calibur
Copic Markers

The whole earth is full of His glory

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000-06:00

(artist trading cards 2.5" x 3.5")

Good morning paper crafters. I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving day and are not too stuffed. We had a wonderful day and I had fun trying some new recipes this year. Today I will be relaxing and putting up some christmas decorations. No black friday shopping for me. I don't like crowds and univited people in my personal space. Thus I avoid fairs, concerts, and Walmart for the entire month of december, teehee.

Today I am doing the Faith Art Friday post over on the Layers of Color blog. I hope that you will check it out every friday. Here's my post :

"Isn’t it wonderful how we can see and experience God all around us! The last few months have been heartbreaking for me because someone who is dear to me, and had been a follower of Christ, shared that he no longer believed there was a God. This person is very scientific and believes that there is no evidence that there is a God and that He created this wonderful world that we live in. I was deeply saddened knowing the consequences of our unbelief. It’s difficult for me to understand how some people can NOT see the evidence, it’s all around us.

The whole earth is full of His glory! Isaiah 6:3

I am so thankful that I can see, and for all the beauty that God surrounds us with. I am so thankful for a loving God who gave so much for me that I might have eternal life. It’s a free gift to anyone who wants to receive it, to anyone who can see the evidence of God all around them"

If you would like to know more about what I am talking about, just email me at luv_2_stamp@yahoo.com

Hugs, Melisa

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Project Details

Stamps : Touch of Elegance, and Dotted Peonies art stamp sets.

Copic Markers : RV10, RV34, RV19, YG61, G21, G24

Spellbinders : Nestibilities Labels Two and the Grand Calibur

Ink : VersaMark Tsukineko

The background was created using the circular image from the "Touch of Elegance" art stamp set. It's difficult to see. But I stamped the image with VersaMark ink and then embossed with white embossing powder on 140# cold press water color paper. This works as a resist. Next I rub the orange paint over the entire card, let is set for a minute and then used a damp paper towel to rub some of the paint off, exposing the embossed images. It gives you this cool distressed look. Next I rubbed hot pink paint around the edges to distress it even more.

Gotta share!!! I'm so excited ... I just figured out how to find the code for the font color I want online and then change it in the HTML here!!! Whoowhoo! I like to make my links a different color but I want it to match my art. I have no idea why Blogger doesn't offer more colors for us computer illiterit folks. My children will be so proud of me.

Free Teacup template!

2011-11-21T05:30:00.000-06:00

Good Morning! Today Layers of Color is having a Tea Party and we hope you will join us!

If you have arrived from Linda's Blog, then you are in the correct place. If not, you might want to start at the Layers of Color Blog HERE. It's a circular hop, so you will end up back here.

My project today uses a hand drawn teacup template I designed. Thank you so much Laura for turning it into a PDF file for me!! With this template you can create a teacup shaped card, or a teacup shape to put on the front of a card. So many LOC stamps would have been fun to use on this, but I'm working on my Christmas Cards right now.

This template is free for you to use, but I ask that you not post the file anywhere else. Please link to my blog. If you loose this post, then you can always find my templates on the side-bar near the bottom of my blog. Not only is the link to the template there, but a link to any projects I have created using the template is there as well. This template will also be available over at LOC. Thank you!

Download the Teacup Card Template PDF HERE. Right click, then click print.

Your next stop in this hop is

NINA!

Hop on over, or stay for a few more minutes and review my step by step tutorial.

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Project Details

Let me start out by saying you do not have to cut the pattern as shown on the file. It might be difficult to get both side to match if you do. The easier way is to print the PDF onto sturdy cardstock and then cut out 1/2 the pattern to use as a template.

I decided I wanted the bottom of my teacup and handle to be red and thought I came up with an easy tutorial to accomplish this without you have to cut the pattern from a seperate piece of red cardstock. I'll let you be the judge!

Start with a white card.

Adhere a piece of red cardstock on the inside of the card. I used Aleene's Tachy glue. I wanted to make sure it was glued down, so that when I started cutting, the pieces didn't seperate. Just keep in mind that wet glue can warp your card, so a little goes a long way. I scribbled it all over the back of the red cardstock and then adhered it inside the card. Let it dry.

Lay the teacup pattern you created over the back of the card and trace around the edges lightly with a pencil. Cut around the outside. Do not cut the inside of the handle.

back of card

Flip it over. Sketch a guideline / cut line along the side and bottom of card. The photo only show my sketch line on the side, I forgot to include the bottom. Sorry. Unfold the card. Cut off the handle and bottom of the cup from the front of the card along your sketch lines.

front of card

Now you will be able to see the red handle and bottom of cup from the front of the card. Flip it back over and continue cutting the inside of the handle. I started with a x-acto knife to cut the center out, but I can't get smooth cut lines with it, so I finished with a pair of scissors. Cuticle scissors work great for cutting small curved area's. I was able to see a little white cardstock around the edges, so I used a red marker to color around the edges.

This photo is of the card opened up, back of card on left. See how the front of the card doesn't have the bottom of the cup or handle. Slide the front of the card into an embossing folder. TIP : Pull the handle above the template if possible. I didn't and I ended up with a slight line across my handle from the edge of the embossing folder. You might also try adding another piece of paper across the top of the back of the cup, or you will get that same line across the back of the card.

Now embellish your teacup card! I used one of Nina's labels from her newly released "Elegant Labels" art stamp set (stamped in red). The labels in this set are compatible with Spellbinders Nestibilities Labels Five, Labels Ten, and Labels Sixteen. All available over at the LOC Boutique. Mine is hand cut because I don't have Labels Five.

The sentiment is from "Sentamental Banners" art stamp set. Dove and holly images are from the "Glad Tidings" art stamp set. I cut them out of the wreath image. And the holly images at the top are from the "Christmas Blessings" art stamp set.

I think you can see how I added lots of glitter (Stampendous Ultra Fine White ) .... around the cup edges, all over the doves, around banner, and around the edge of the label image. I use a 2-Way Glue Pen to added glitter. TIP : If you get glue and glitter on your image lines, then quickly use a tooth pick or paper piercer to scratch it off the lines.

I hope you enjoy creating your own teacup card! I have another one already done and will be sharing very soon. I don't have the step by step photo's done yet. It is much easier to create than this one ... I promise, teehee!

And as always, if you were inspired by this tutorial, I would love to see your creation. Just leave me a link in the comment section or email me.

big hugs,

Melisa

You can view all of my Tea / Teacup related projects HERE

You can view all of my Shaped Cards HERE.

You can view all of my Christmas project HERE.

Teacup Card

2011-11-19T12:59:00.000-06:00

Hello Paper Crafters. I hope you are having a beautiful Saturday. Is everyone ready to prepare their Thanksgiving feast?? I usually wait til the last minute to run to the grocery store and get everything I need. I still have to dig out my recipes and see what ingredients I need to purchase. I'm sad that I will not be spending it with my daughter this year .... but happy my son will be here. Unfortunately, I can never get him or my husband to join me in the sing-a-long. I love to start playing my Christmas music on Thanksgiving day while cooking. Get's me in the mood for putting up the Christmas decorations.

Since it's just the 3 of us, I know we will have lots of left over turkey. Any idea's / recipes for how to repurpose it?? I do have one recipe a co-worker passed out from Women's Day. It's "turkey and potato hand pies". I may just give it a try.

Today's card was created using the cutest teacup set! "Floral Tea" . I think pearls and lace are the perfect embellishements for a card like this. I have to say, I'm out of the pearl strand and you would think it would be easy to find at one of the local craft stores. All I can find are the larger pearls. Hopefully someone will get some in eventually. The lace is from Hobby Lobby. I love getting my lace from Hobby Lobby. I don't have to pay shipping and it's easy to get when I run out. And of course it's even better when I get it on sale!

Just want to give you a quick reminder about the Challenges over at SpeedyTV! Every Monday a new challenge is posted. To find them ... hop over to the home page HERE. Then toggle over the Friends of Speedy button at the top. The drop down menu list all the challenges.

I got some new MFP stamps and will be sharing some projects with you for some of the upcoming challenges. I have to say it truely will be challenge for me, because they are all "scenery" sets. I don't know if you have ever noticed, but I have never done "scenes". Who knows what I will come up with! All of MFP's new releases are next Mon-Wed. The Design Team will be sharing lots of inspiration with you during their 3-Day blog hop! Check out the MFP blog HERE.

I look forward to receiving the flood of emails with address for those Christmas cards!
hugs,
Melisa

You can view all of my Tea / Teacup related projects HERE

Layers of Color NEW RELEASE Blog Hop!

2011-11-16T05:03:00.000-06:00

Welcome to a very special Layers of Color New Release Blog Hop!

Today is so exciting because we are introducing

Layers of Color Designer Collection

showcasing Nina Brackett's new signature stamp line,

Nina B Designs! If you have arrived from Linda's blog ... then you are in the right place. If not, then you will want to start on the Layers of Color blog to read all the details on how to win prizes!!

I have been having so much fun designing with these images. Most of these sets are bigger (6x8") than the usual Layers of Color sets. My first card uses images from the set "Beautiful Lace". The tag below was created using images from the "Dotted Dahlia".

Layers of Color is also introducing some fun new embellishments you can use on your projects ...

Angel's Twine and Feather Twine!

LOC has also set up an easier way to view projects for specific stamp sets. You will find lots of inspiration for all of your LOC clear stamps in the clear stamp art galleries!

And have you heard?? Laura and Nina have also designed some new dies with Spellbinders!

Introducing Dress Forms! Get more info at THIS POST!

and Nested Tea Cups! Get more info about this set on THIS POST!

Aren't these fun?? You will be seeing more inspiration using these dies in the upcoming months from each of the Layers of Color DT members. These dies are only available through Crafter’s Home participating stores at this time. They will be available in other stores, including Layers of Color after CHA.

To celebrate the new release of the Spellbinders dies, Layers of Color is sponsoring another blog hop on Nov 21st. I hope you will join us for FREE templates and lots of inspiration!

thanks for joining us!

Melisa

Your next stop in the blog hop is the wonderfully talented

NINA

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Project Details

Card - I started by stamping the doily images on white cardstock and embossing. Then I rubbed on pink distress ink (ranger) with one of the Tim Holtz applicators. I guess I thought if I did it like this, there would be some variation in the shading, but in the end, it came out all the same shade. So save yourself some time and just stamp and emboss on pink cardstock, teehee! I stamped the dress form once on the white cardstock panel and then again on polka dot paper. Then paper pieced as shown. I colored the pink area's on the dress with Copics.

Tag / Bookmark - You know I like it when I have time to get messy! And it had been a while since I had created a mixed media type background. So this tag was so much fun for me. I started with a manilla tag from a local office supply store and covered it with white cardstock. Then I layered on some old music paper. My intent was for it to show more, but I messed it up when I kept adding color. I started with an Aquamarine Glaze by Golden. You can also use aqua acrylic paint, watered down. With a glaze the goal is to add color but still be able to see what's underneath (music paper in this case). Then I sprayed with a blue Glimmer Mist. Then I thought a tiny spritz of brown would add some dimension, yuck! Didn't turn out so great. I should have stopped with blue. So to lighten it a little I lightly rubbed on some white. You can see that most near the middle of the tag, coming from behind the flowers. When I'm trying to add just a little color in a random fashion, I use a fan brush and lightly apply the paint. Next came yellow. I put a polka dot stencil over the left upper corner and pounced on some yellow paint, with a really cool tool ... my finger, teehee. Then I used my finger to add more yellow paint around the edges. And finally I adhered my Copic colored images and doodled around the edges.

Layers of Color Sneak Peak!

2011-11-14T17:45:00.001-06:00

Hello Paper Crafters. I hope you enjoyed the Gingerbread House Mini-Album Blog Hop last week. This week I hope you will join us for the New Release Blog Hop on Wednesday. Nina Brackett has designed some fabulous images for you to play with! I haven't heard yet, but I'm sure there will be stamps to win as well. The above is an artist trading card (2.5" x 3") sneak peak. Isn't this a fabulous image!

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More upcoming events

I want to take a moment to introduce you to a new challenge blog that a friend of mine is starting. I know there are lots of challenge lover's out there. It's called "Word Art Wednesday" and I hope you will take a moment to check it out.

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Spellbinders is having a 3 day new release with lots of great inspiration and give-aways! Check it out HERE. And then click on the Sunday Nov 13th post. The next 2 days will focus on dies designed by Nina Brackett and Laura Kirste Campbell!!

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And I just found out today that Pink Persimmon is having a very special new release by Lisa M. Pace. The design team is not participating in this one, so you will have to check out the Pink Persimmon blog on Saturday to find out all the details. I have heard that Lisa has selected some very talented designers to create the samples, so you don't want to miss this one either!

You can check out Lisa's blog HERE.

Pink Persimmon will have another new release sometime in december!

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Mark's Finest Papers will be having their new release blog hop Nov. 21 - Nov 23.

The Friends of SpeedyTV Design Team would like to invite you to join us in this weeks challenge! This week's challenge is to create a birthday card. You can check it out HERE.

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Well that's it for today! I can't wait to share more of my new projects using the Layers of Color New Releases. See ya Wednesday!
hugs,

Melisa

Gingerbread House Mini-Album Blog Hop!

2011-11-09T21:00:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the Creative Cuts and More Gingerbread House Mini-Album Blog Hop!

The official start date and time is 7am central time TOMORROW MORNING, Thur Nov 10th.
So not all of the participates are live tonight.

If you have arrived from Taylor's blog, then you are in the right place. If you didn't, then you will want to start at the beginning on the Creative Cuts and More blog HERE. You will want to start there so you can read all the details regarding how to qualify to win prizes!

Cover

I'm so excited about this blog hop because when my children were growing up we used to make Gingerbread houses as part of our Christmas activities. Some years we used the standard store bought houses. But we were pretty serious and some years made our own gingerbread dough so we could be creative. My kids came up with some crazy stuff over the years. So when Terry ask me to join is as a guest designer ... well it was a no brainer, teehee. I decided to use my Zutter Bind - It - All for my album. Mine ended up so thick, that I have to shop for a larger o'wire. The photo's are probably better taken before binded anyway.

I hope you enjoy the hop, and that you are inspired to create your own little album. If your kids are small, then consider this as a family acitivity. We had soooo much fun over the years. We were a just a wee bit competitive though and there was some smack talk over the years, as well as some power tools involved, teehee.

Your next stop in the hop is

Dawn

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Project Details

This album comes with several options :
Gingerbread Album Chipboard Kit
Gingerbread Album Deluxe Kit
Gingerbread Album Ultimate Kit

BUY ONE completed from me
If you don't have time to create your own, and would like one made for you, then please contact me at luv_2_stamp@yahoo.com. I have enough supplies to create 1 more album. I'm not sure of the price yet, because I'm not sure how much the Chipboard kit cost.

Cover

I used a few stamps and Christmas ornaments from Hobby Lobby to embellish most of my album.

The cover was stamped in snow flakes. First with VersaMark Ink and white embossing powder. Then with Glue Pad and sprinkled with red glitter. Because the glitter will not stick long term, I sprayed the background with several coats of Matte Fixative Spray. The cute gingerbread man is a cute die-cut by Creative Cuts and More. I used white paint for the icing lines and the pepperment is my pepperment stamp with the ends cut off. The brick on the house is Layers of Color's "Brick Wall" cling art stamp colored with Copics. The peppermint sticks on the house corners and chimney are handmade. I used my T-Square to draw a series of lines, and then cut at an angle to create the diagonal look. Trace the openings of the window and door on white cardstock, cut openings out, and then trim around with deckled scissors. Adhere around door and windows. Add glitter using a 2-Way glue pen. The swirly on the roof is May Road, painted white and covered in glitter. The stocking button is a Dress It Up button purchased at a local craft store. I added fabric filler/padding on the side of the roof, applied Aleene's Tachy Glue, and sprinkled with glitter. I painted the chipboard trim with white paint, applied white glue, and sprinkled with glitter. The candy peppermints were handstamped, colored with Copics, and hand cut. If you do not have a similar stamp, then consider using a pattern from a coloring book off the internet. HERE.

Pages 1 & 2

I was able to find some snow flakes, candy cane border, and peppermint stamps in my stash. They are all old, so I can't link you. I think the candy cane border and peppermint candy stamps were inexpensive stamps from the dollar bin at Michaels years back.

Page 1

The 2 mini gingerbread die's are from CCM as well.

I was able to find a peppermint border stamp HERE. But you can also consider searching for a digital stamp or coloring book image as well. I added white acrylic paint around the edges of all photo's. Glitter was added to each around the edges after doodling. I found the cutest poem that a teacher used on a bulletin board HERE.

Page 2

Embellish the inside of snowflakes with red Stickles.

Pages 3 & 4

I used a large polka dot background stamp on page 3. And I found these cutie patootie gingerbread buttons at a local craft store. They are called "Iced Cookie Gingerbread Men" by Dress It Up. Check out the buttons I found HERE that would be perfect for your album. And check out the buttons for sale on this blog ... scroll down to Oct 27th HERE.

Page 3

Page 4

I added pocket pages in my album. I cut a sheet of cardstock 5 3/4" x 11" and then scored at 5 1/2". The opening is along the side with the green scallops. So I can tuck in some tags with journaling. So page 4 is only 5 1/2" long and therefore you can see part of page 6. I wanted to include gingerbread dough and icing recipes. What you can't see is there is actually a second pocket page underneath this one and on the outside of the front and backs are the instrutions for preparing the dough and icing.

Page 5 & 6

Page 6

Page 6 includes some mini-ornaments found at Hobby Lobby. They have 2 sections this year including gingerbread ornaments. One is a mini tree section and then again in the large ornament section. There were little hooks in the top that I unscrewed and removed.

Pages 7 & 8

More mini ornaments on these 2 pages. The edger punch on page 8 is by EK Success. This is not a traditional border punch. It creates a paper ribbon.

Page 7

Page 8

Pages 9 & 10

I used a large background stamp on these 2 pages. The stamp is by Inkadinkado. And the holly leaves were also found in a button department at a local craft store.

Page 9

Yes that's an army tank shooting Santa! I really wanted my kids to create houses with traditional christmas colors, but they wanted to do there own thing, and this is just one example. Sometimes their creative idea's worked and sometimes they didn't. One year my son and his girlfriend decided to do a "Disney" themed house. They tried to build a roller coaster coming off the roof! It all looked great, except the roller coaster didn't work out.

Page 10

Page 11 & 12

Page 11

Page 12

The chipboard candy canes used on the roof are from CCM. I painted them white, added lines with a Micron pen, and colored strips with a marker. I criss crossed 2 of them and embellished with the holly button.

I hope you were inspired. If you decide to embellish one of these please link me. I would love to see what idea's you come up with!

hugs, Melisa

November Events - Mark your calendars!

2011-11-07T13:48:00.000-06:00

Hello Paper Crafters. It's been a while and it's good to be back. Let me begin by asking for you prayers for a local student of mine who had to be rushed for emergency open heart surgery over the weekend. Her name is Pat. Thanks so much for your prayers.

I had a wonderful vacation visiting with family for the past week in GA. But it's time to get back in the swing of things. So I'm spending the day catching up on laundry, grocery shopping, trying to figure out what I need to create next, and uploading photo's to gallery's. I'm happy to report the cat survived while we were gone. We had a neighbor come over and give him fresh water while we were gone. My bird feeders were empty though, so the first thing I did was give them fresh water and refill my feeders. Shortly after doing so my Cardnal showed up. Week before last I had a pair of Grackles. It was fun to see a new species come around. But they didn't seen too interested in the bird feeders, and I haven't seen them since.

It's finally cooling down here in TX and it looks like the high for the next couple of days is 78-79. So I thought it would be fitting to post a fall card. I used "Autumn Fun" by Mark's Finest Papers. I have to tell you shortly after we left to go out of town I received an email announcing that Mark's Finest Papers was under new ownership. I was so surprised. I would link you to the set, but it's not up in the store at this time. The new ownership pulled down almost all the stamp sets and looks like they are finally adding some back on now. So honestly, I'm not sure if this one is going to make the cut or not. But the word is that they are going to be adding tons of new images, and it looks like it has already started.

Mark's Finest Papers has a HUGE Pre-Inventory sale going on right now as well. In addition to the advertised sale (25% off select items, no coupon needed) on their home page, you can save more (additional 15% off everything, including sale items using HEIN15 promo code). You want find the promo code on the home page, it was for email subscribers. A good reason to sign up for their email newsletters, because you never know what other sales them may have coming up as they fade out old images, making room for new ones.

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UPCOMING EVENTS
Nov. 10th
Creative Cuts and More Gingerbread House Mini-Album Blog Hop
I'm so excited about this one. And I can't wait to show you what I have created. You can check out a video pre-viewing this mini-album HERE. Make sure and join us for some fun idea's!

Nov. 14th - 16th

Spellbinders New Release's and there will be 2 designed by our very own Laura and Nina! You are going to love them! You will be able to purchase these along with many other Spellbinder's dies at the Layer's of Color Boutique

Nov. 16th

Did you love some of Nina's designs in the new TAC catalog, but never had time to order them??? Well here's a second chance! Make sure you join us and find out which images she is releasing through Layer's of Color!!

Nov 21st

I have designed a free template that will be shared during this hop! Wish I could tell you what it is, teehee!

Dec 1st

Gifts Galore Blog Hop by Layers of Color

A free template will be given out at this blog hop as well!

Well that wraps up all the info I have for today.

I hope you have a crafty week!

hugs, Melisa

November Classes

2011-11-07T13:47:00.001-06:00

Hello everyone. I just wanted to share my November Classes with you. If you live locally, I would love for you to join me for one of my classes. You can get more info and register for the classes through meet-up.com. My group site is here : http://www.meetup.com/Paperlicious-Fun/ . It is free to sign up at meet-up and that will allow you to view the group site, join my group, and get the latest updates via email as soon as I post classes. If you know somone who lives in the Houston area, I would appreciated you passing on the info to them. The only way I have to advertise is through word of mouth and it would certainly be a blessing to me to see more people join the group!

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FALL CARDS AND A TREAT BOX CLASS

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THANKSGIVING PLACE SETTING AND GIFT BOX CLASS

Includes 6 place settings.

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FALL CENTER PIECE AND GIFT CONTAINER CLASS

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FALL SCRAPBOOK LAYOUTS AND FRAMES CLASS

Thanks for stopping by!

hugs, Melisa

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PROJECT DETAILS

FALL CARDS AND A GIFT BOX

Card #1

Stamps : Inkadinkado "Happy Thanksgiving" #93023 is retired, but it is still available in online stores who have it.

Spellbinders "Labels Eight" and "Classic Ovals LG"

Card #2

Stamps : "Happy Fall" Inkadinkado, "Twizzle Tree" Memory Box

Twizzle Tree is available at Ellen Hutson HERE

See all the detail for the "I'm Nut" About You" gift box HERE.

FALL PLACE SETTING AND PIE GIFT BOX

Pie gift box : Creative Cuts and More

Spellbinders Labels Sixteen (name plate and napkin ring) and Labels Eight (tag on top of pie box)

Stamps : Ornate Textured Background Stampabilities, Acorn and small leaves - Crafty Secrets Thanksgiving set

You can view all of my Altered Projects HERE

Pink Persimmon "Oh Deer!" Day 2

2011-10-28T05:00:00.000-05:00

Good morning! I'm back today with a card that is perfect for fall. I used Pink Persimmons "Oh! Dear" and a Kaleidacolor ink pad that creates a gradient of fall colors. Create a cream card 4.25" x 5.5". Trim orange patterned paper slightly smaller and ink edges brown. Adhere to card front. Cut cream panel using Spellbinders Nestabilities Labels Eight and the Grand Calibur. Ink edges and adhere to card front. Stamp sentiment. Stamp tree on cream cardstock using Tsukineko's Kaleidacolor ink pad and trim. Stamp deer on cream cardstock with Tsukineko's Pearlescent Chocolate ink pad. Trim and adhere both tree and deer to card front. Tie ribbon (Offray double-sided ribbon - Joann's).

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you are enjoying all the wonderful blessings that God gives us in the fall season!
Melisa

Pink Persimmon "Oh Deer!" Day #1

2011-10-27T05:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Stampers! Today I am sharing a shaped card created using Pink Persimmon's "Oh! Dear" and Spellbinders Nestibilitites Labels Eight.

Let's begin by creating the shaped card. Start with a 4" x 6" card folded on the side. Use the biggest die from the Labels Eight set an lay it over the card. The left side of the die should be off the side of the card, so that it doesn't cut the fold. Cut your background patterned paper with the same die. Stamp tree with Momento Rich Cocoa on striped paper and script paper (My Mind's Eye "Sunshine" 6 x6 paper pad). Tear the green paper creating grass, ink torn edge and adhere to bottom of striped paper. Cut tree trunk from tree stamped on script paper, add a little brown ink to add shadowing, and adhere to card front. Color leaves with Copic Markers (YG91, YG95). Stamps sentiment. Stamp deer on cardstock, color with markers and trim. Adhere to cardfront. Adhere birdhouse button (Dress It Up). Ink edges all the way around. Part of the left side of the panel will hang over the card front. I covered the back of the panel along the left side with cream cardstock to finish it off, so you don't see another pattern on the backside. Adhere to card front.

Darcy from Pink Persimmon scheduled me to post my second "Oh Deer" card tomorrow. I hope you will join me!
Melisa

Noel Christmas Ornament

2011-10-26T07:27:00.000-05:00

Ornament #1

Today I'm sharing some handmade ornaments! I hope you are inspired to create some of your own.

You can find more of my handmade ornaments, including my "5 Star / 1 Cut Ornament" tutorial HERE.

I would love to see your handmade ornaments if you post them. Just email me, or leave me a comment on my blog when you are finished!

Hugs, Melisa

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Project Details

My first ornament is pretty easy to create. I cut 2 1 1/2" strips from cream patterned paper. I scored every 1/2" to create pleats. Before folding back and forth to create pleats, embellish edges with gold glitter glue. Punch a 2" circle to use as a base to stabalize the pleated base. Glue the ends of the strips together at the ends. Then glue the entire pleated background to the 2" circle. Created the red ruffled piece from crepe paper. It's the kind you get in the party section at local craft store. I used thread and a needle to gather the edge of the crepe paper strip. Adhere to center of pleated base. Cut scalloped circle from cream cardstock using Spellbinders Classic Scalloped Circles and the Grand Calibur. Adhere to front of ornament. Embellish edges with gold glitter glue. Stamp "Noel" from Layers of Color art stamp set "Christmas Verses" onto cream cardstock and trim. Adhere to front of ornament and embellish with glitter glue. Stamp dove (from "Angelic" art stamp set) on cream cardstock, trim, adhere, and embellish with glitter glue.

Ornament #2

To create this ornament, begin with the one of the decorative dies from the "Fluer de Lis" die set by Spellbinders. Cut 3 from cream cardstock. Score down the center of each one. Then use the "Classic Scalloped Circles" die set and cut 3 scalloped circles from cream cardstock. Score down the center. Stamp decorative image from Layers of Color "Touch of Elegance" art stamp set with VersaMark ink and emboss with gold embossing powder. Then you can use glitter glue around the edges. I did not do it that way, but it would be easier for you if you have embossing powder and glitter glue that coordinate. I wanted the stamped image and glitter around the edges to match, so I stamped the image with a Glue Pad and sprinkled with gold glitter. Then I added glue with a glue pen around the edges and sprinkled with glitter. This is a more difficult way to do it, because the glue pad did not completely hold the glitter and it was easy to knock off. So then I sprayed over it with several coats of Fixative Spray. After dried, fold along score lines of both the scalloped circles and the decorative die shapes. Adhere each scalloped circle to the front of the decorative die shape. You now have 3 sides. Adhere 1/2 of #1 to 1/2 of #2. I use Aleene's Tachy Glue. Adhere 1/2 of #2 to 1/2 of #3. Before you adhere 1/2 of #3 to 1/2 of #1, you need to set your gold cord down the middle of the ornament. Cut the gold cord long enough to form a loop at the top with the end being adhered inside the ornament. Leave a long piece of the other end hanging out the bottom so you can embellish with beads and an images. Do not leave both ends extending from the bottom of the ornament unless you know for sure that your beads will fit on 2 pieces. The inside of my beads were so small, that I could not feed 2 pieces of the cord through them. I secured the cord inside the ornament using Aleene's Tachy Glue. After the glue is dry and cord secured, adhere 1/2 of #3 to 1/2 of #1.

Finish your ornament by adding a bead cap and several beads. Tie a knot at the end of the last bead, but leave a tail hanging do you can add your image. Color image and embellish with gold glitter. Trim and adhere to end of cord.

Mark's Finest Papers Ornament Blog Hop

2011-10-25T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good Morning Paper Crafters. I just wanted to pop in and let you know that tomorrow's "12 Days of Christmas" Blog Hop with Mark's Finest Papers is all about ornaments!! The "12 Days of Christmas" Blog Hop acutally started Oct 17th. Each day had a different theme and you can go back and check out all the wonderful projects by starting on the Mark's Finest Papers Blog HERE.

Tomorrow I will be sharing my projects for the Layers of Color Ornament Blog Hop. I hope you will join us!

Melisa

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Project Details

Stamps : Mark's Finest Papers "Seasonal Poinsettia's"

I started with a paper mache ornament you can pick up at a local craft store, and altered it. I painted the sides and back a gold color. Glued the front of the ornament to a larger peice of patterned paper. After the glue was dry, I trimmed around the edges with an Exacto knife. I used my Basic Grey File Set to smooth out the edges. The edges were then distressed with ink. I embellished the top and bottom point with gold paper. Stamp the poinsettia image x 4 on white cardstock, color with Copics, and trim. I trimed out some of the center petals from 2 of the images so that I could layer and pop them up. Adhere to front of ornament. Stamp sentiment.

Reindeer Waltz Christmas Projects

2011-10-23T17:12:00.000-05:00

Good Morning! Today I am sharing a bunch of "Reindeer Waltz" projects I have designed. I love that set!! This particular project was published in Stamper's Sampler recently.

But before we go any further, I want to remind you of the upcoming Layers of Color "Ornament Blog Hop". I have two ornaments to share with you and I just know the rest of the team will have some very creative ornament projects to share with you. We have a lot of special guest joining us on this hop as well!! So you don't want to miss it!

Card #1

Tag Set #1

Card #2

Tag Set #2

I was thrilled to have this set published on the cover of Scrap N Stamp recently!

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Project Details

Home Decor

Stamps : Layers of Color “Reindeer Waltz”

Spellbinders Fluer de Lis Doily die, Lotus Pendants, and In Spades Pendant

Ink : Ranger Adirondack Cranberry, Palette Giverny Green

Patterned Paper : SEI

Wooden Spools : Hobby Lobby and antique store

Fiber : Hobby Lobby, Buttons : Dress It Up

Modeling Paste

Glitter : Stampendous

Snowflake Punch : EK Success

Wooden floral picks

Zig 2-Way Glue pen

Card #1

Stamps : "Reindeer Waltz" and "Happy Wishes"
Kraft and red cardstock
Border Punch : Fiskars
Corner Rounder : EK Sucess

Tag Set #1

Stamps : Layers of Color “Reindeer Waltz”, Ink : Ranger
Adirondack Cranberry, Patterned Paper : SEI,
Glitter : Stampendous, Snowflake Punch : EK Success,
Zig 2-Way Glue pen , Fiber : Hobby Lobby

Add patterned paper as shown. Stamp large reindeer
on white cardstock and trim. Adhere to front of tag.
Stamp smaller reindeer on the other two tags.
Stamp the 2 reindeer that overlap the patterned
paper on white cardstock and trim around reindeer
body, excluding antlers. Adhere
over the same stamped reindeer on front of tags.
Add fiber. Punch snowflakes, add glue with glue
pen and sprinkle with glitter. Stamp the reindeer
3 reindeer that over lap patterned paper on white
cardstock in red ink and trim.

Card #2

Stamps : Layers of Color “Reindeer Waltz” and GinaK (sentiment)

Border Punch : Fiskars

Ribbon and button : Unknown

Tag Set #2

Stamps : Layers of Color "Reindeer Waltz"
Rub-on sentiments : Making Memories
Border Punch : Fiskars

Pink Persimmon Christmas Projects

2011-10-21T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good Morning! Today I am sharing a few Pink Persimmon Christmas Cards I made a while back. This one uses "Holly and Mistletoe".

The following two cards were designed using "Merry Christmas Tree".

thanks for stopping by,

Melisa

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Project Details

Holly and Mistletoe Card

Stamps : Pink Persimmon Holly and Mistletoe

Ink : Tsukinelo Momento Tuxedo Black

Markers : Copic

Patterned Paper : Little Yellow Bicycle

Ruffled ribbon : Websters Pages

Chalk : Pebbles Inc

Trim red cardstock and adhere to front of 5 x5 card. Trim green patterned paper slightly smaller and adhere to front of card. Stamp image (Pink Persimmon Holly and Mistletoe) on white cardstock and color with markers (Copic R29, R59, YG61, G82, YG67, E43, E55). Trim down to 2 1/8” x 5”. Add chalk (Pebbles Inc) around edges. Adhere to red cardstock and trim along top with deckled scissors (Fiskars). Adhere to front of card. Adhere ribbon along bottom edge (ruffled ribbon - Websters Pages). Stamp sentiment.

A Merry Christmas Tree Card #1

Stamps : Pink Persimmon Merry Christmas Tree

Ink : Tsukineko VersaMagic Hint of Pesto

Embossing Powder : Stampendous

Patterned Paper : Teresa Collins Noel

Spellbinders Nestibilites Labels Eight
Grand Calibur

Jewels : Memory Box

Ribbon : local craft store.

Create a card and card front using Spellbinders Nestibilities Labels Eight. Stamp tree image on front of card and emboss. Embellish with jewels and ribbon.

A Merry Christmas Tree Card #2

Stamps : Pink Persimmon Merry Christmas Tree

Ink : Tsukineko VersaMagic Spanish Olive and Red Magic

Patterned Paper : Chatterbox

Spellbinders die : Labels Ten Nestibilities and Grand Calibur

Ribbon : Webster’s Pages

Create A2 card base with green cardstock (Bazzill). Trim patterned paper (Chatterbox) lightly smaller than card front and adhere. Trim/embosswhite cardstock using Labels Ten Nestibilities (Spellbinders) with Grand Calibur. Stamp tree (Pink Persimmon Merry Christmas Tree) as shown and emboss, then add green chalk around edges (Pebbles Inc). Adhere to green cardstock and trim around, creating a mat. Adhere to front of card. Embellish with gems. Cut loop off back of bird button (Favorite findings Joanns Fabrics store) and adhere. Adhere ribbon (Webster’s Pages) as shown. I use white wet glue along edges of trim/ribbon and let dry before trimming. It prevents fraying once you cut it.

I'm Nuts About You

2011-10-19T15:07:00.000-05:00

Good Afternoon. Today I'm sharing a fun little gift idea. I think this set is sooo cute combined with one of Creative Cuts and More's gift boxes. I used "Autumn Fun" by Mark's Finest Papers.

This weeks challenge over at Speedy TV is "Sweetest Day". You can check it out HERE. We hope you will join us and play along. You can check out all of the Speedy TV challenges at anytime by going to the main page, float your mouse over the "Friends of Speedy TV" button along the top. You will see a drop down menu. Then click on which ever week you would like to view.

And I have to take a moment to let you know about the Mark's Finest Papers "12 Days of Christmas" blog hop. It started Monday. Each day, the MFP design team will be posting projects for a paricular theme! I'm sure there are lots of idea's.

Monday's theme was "Bind it All"
Tuesday's theme was "Coasters"
and today's theme is "Decorated Jars".

Have a great day!

Melisa

GinaK Designs Christmas Projects

2011-10-17T09:51:00.001-05:00

Good Morning Paper Crafters! Today I'm sharing a bunch of GinaK Designs Christmas Projects I designed a while back. This one is a Christmas ornament using A Very Merry Christmas and Lovely Labels 2.

Photo card using The Magic of Christmas.

And here is a card using A Very Merry Christmas

Have a great day!

Melisa

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Project Details

Ornament

Stamps : GinaK A Very Merry Christmas and Lovely Labels 2

Ink : Tsukineko Brilliance Rocket Red, Copic Markers

Spellbinders Labels Sixteen

Grand Calibur

Patterned Paper : Little Yellow Bicycle

Glitter glue : Stickles

Chipboard

Gold cord : local craft store

Using Spellbinders Nestibilities Labels Sixteen, cut 2 green and one chipboard labels. Adhere green labels to both sides of the chipboard. Stamp Lovely Label image on white cardstock with red ink. Trim around edges, leaving a border as shown. Adhere to front of ornament with red ink. Trim around edges, leaving a border as shown. Adhere to front of ornament. Stamp bells image on white cardstock and color with markers. Adhere to front of ornament. Stamp sentiment. Adhere ends of ribbon / hanger to back of ornament. Embellish with glitter glue.

Photo Card

Stamps : GinaK The Magic of Christmas

Markers : Copic

Patterned Paper : The Girl's Paperie

Ribbon : Stampin' Up

Trim off white cardstock 4 1/4" x 5 1/2". Trim patterned paper slightly smaller and adhere to cream panel. Stamp ornaments on patterned paper slightly smaller and adhere to cream panel. Stamp ornaments on patterned paper and then again on cream cardstock. Color ornaments with markers, trim around bulbs (do not cut hangers) and adhere over ornaments on patterned paper. Trim photo down and tie ribbon around end of photo. Adhere to cream cardstock and trim around edges leaving a border. Adhere to re cardstock and trim around edges with deckled scissors to create a border. Stamp sentiment on cream cardstock and trim. Adhere to red cardstock and trime around edges with deckled scissors. Adhere photo and sentiment to card front.

Glad Tidings Card

Stamps : GinaK Designs A Very Merry Christmas

Ink : Tsukineko Momento Tuxedo Black

Markers : Copic

Chalk : Pebbles Inc

Spellbinders Nestabilities Labels Ten

Grand Calibur

Patterned Paper : The Girls Paperie Tinsel and Twig 2010

Glittered birds : Making Memories

Glitter Glue : Stickles

Chipboard sentiment : Bo-Bunny

Trim green patterned paper 4.5" x 6" and adhere to card front. Trim white cardstock 4.25" x 5.75" and adhere to card front. Trim red patterned paper 4" x 5.5" and adhere to card front. Cut / emboss white cardstock using Spellbinders Labels Ten. Stamp tree image and color with Copic markers. Add green chalk around edges. Add chipboard sentiment. Embellish with glitter glue and glittered bird brads. Adhere to card front.

Find out how to qualify for a free gift ...

2011-10-10T05:00:00.001-05:00

Good Morning. Today I am sharing a card created for Speedy TV's weekly challenge. The challenge was to create an anniversary card. You can check out this challenge HERE. To find the challenges in the future ... hold your mouse over the "Friends of Speedy TV" button along the top of the page. You will see a drop down menu with all the challenges.

Stamps : Mark's Finest Papers "Black Eyed Susan's for Encouragement"

Spellbinders : Classic Ovals LG and Classic Scalloped Ovals LG

Grand Calibur

Patterned Paper : Lost and Found "Union Square" (music) and "Rosey II

Copic Markers : R20, R22, R05, YG61, YG17

Here are a couple of recent Tutorial video's you may want to check out! Both are perfect for fall projects.

Burned Paper Bag Leaves by MariLynn

Chrysanthemum Paper Flowers

And don't forget .... I'm looking for friends over at Speedy TV

I will be drawing 3 names from my friends list (excluding DT members) from my friends list over at Speedy TV on Oct 25th. All you have to do is sign up for the site and then send me a friend request. You can check out my page HERE.

Have a great day!

NR #4 Glad Tindings

2011-10-09T07:52:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Paper Crafters. I hope you have had a great weekend so far. I had a wondeful Saturday. I cleaned house, climbed up in the attic to get down all my fall decor and got most of it up, then spent the afternoon, night with my friend Deb. We had so much fun playing around with mixed media techniques / images and created ATC's. I will have to post all of your mixed media creations soon.

Today I'm sharing another Christmas card using Layers of Color "Glad Tidings" art stamp set. There is a little mini Copic tutorial at the end. Don't laugh, teehee, there may be a beginner out there who may find it helpful. I used glitter on the dove's as well as Stickles on the wreath. Hard to see, but definitely a dramatic effect.

Have you started your Christmas cards yet??

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Project Details

Stamps : Glad Tidings art stamp set

Copics : YG61, YG17

Spellbinders : Classic Circles, Classic Scalloped Circles, Fluer de Lis

Grand Calibur

Deckled Scissors - Fiskars

Glitter Glue : Stickles Lime

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Tutorial

YG61

YG17

Blend with YG61

NEW Challenges over at SpeedyTV

2011-10-06T18:34:00.000-05:00

Hello Paper Crafters. Today I'm sharing a card that is a gift card holder as well. Hopefully you can see the pocket I created. I used a credit card as a guide to create the area that is cut in. This one was created for the very first SpeedyTV challenge! There will be weekly challenges (monday) and we would love to have you join us. The theme this week is masculine, and you can check it out HERE.

And if you haven't done so, don't forget to friend me HERE.

I'm drawing 3 names for all my new friends to receive gifts on Oct. 25th!
You can check out my page HERE.

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Project Details

Stamps : Mark's Finest Papers "Here Comes the Grad"

Patterned Paper : My Mind's Eye "Lush"

Ribbon : Offray

Copic Markers : E23, E35, E37, E99, Y06, B97, B99, N1

Layers of Color Vintage Moth

2011-10-03T05:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! I'm back today with a Silk Moth card I created a while back. This one was really easy to put together because I stamped the image on patterned paper.

I hope you have a fabulous day!

hugs,

Melisa

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Project Details

Stamps : Layers of Color "Silk Moth" cling art stamp and "Sent With Love" art stamp set.

Patterned Paper : unknown

Copic Markers

Buttons : unknown

Flowers : Bazzill

Ribbon : Hobby Lobby

Trim patterned paper and adhere to front of A2 card. Adhere ribbon, flowers and buttons. Stamp sentiment. Stamp image on patterned paper, trim, and adhere to front of card. Highlight image with Copic markers.

Watercolor Tutorial #1

2011-10-02T09:09:00.000-05:00

Good morning Paper Crafters! I'm here today with a watercolor tutorial. This is the first in a series of 3. For this tutorial I using the image from Nature's Postage by Mark's Finest Papers you seen on the card I created yesterday. I used Lyra Watercolor Crayons (12 set), Ranger Distress Ink - Tumbled Glass, and Derwent Watercolor Pencil #51 Olive Green. I got my watercolor crayons a few years back at a local craft store with a 40% off at a Joann's. I'm don't know who carries them these days, but what I have noticed online is that they have 24 set now. I had so much fun doing these that I'm considering finding a good deal on the larger set.

In general I brush on water to the area I'm going to be adding color, before adding the color, except for the pencil. Wetting the paper first helps the color flow. So I want continue to mention that, but make sure you do it. The crayon color are very concentrated, so a little goes a long way. You can always add more. I leave the crayons sitting in the tray they come in, wet my brush and then pick up a little color by brushing over the crayon. Keep a paper towel or napkin handy so you can remove unwanted color.. Just re-wet the area if needed, and blot if off with a paper towel. A couple of times I ventured outside the lines and was able to clean it up a little blotting the color off. Each crayon has a ID # on it. I used green (67), yellow (07), orange (13), and brown (99). Let's get started.

Dragonfly wings : Scribble on a little color using Derwent watercolor pencil #51. Add the color near the body outward so that it will be darker at the body. The color will spread, so no need to cover the entire wing. You can always add more. Wet brush and begin brushing from the body to the wing tip. Brush on a little water if dry. Then add a little brown near the body lightly brushing out to add some shadow. The color is very concentrated on the crayons. I am using a very small brush, wetting it and just lightly brushing over the area near the body outward. If you add too much, wet it a little with a clean brush and blot it off. As with anything, you will have to practice to you get the feel for how much water to add and color to pick up. Go back and add a little move green over the wing again, til you get a look like the wings below.

Tulip : Brush on water over tulip. Wet brush and pick up a very small amount of yellow #07. Brush from base upward. I actually put on a little too much color, add some water by brushing outward back toward the base a little and blotted some off. Wet brush pick up a very small amount of brown and brush on as shown above.

Then go back and add a little more yellow til it looks like the one above. You can go ahead and color your stem now if you want as well with the green pencil, I just forgot.

Sky : Brush water on the sky area. Apply a little Tumbled Glass Distress ink to a plastic surface or acylic block. Wet brush and begin picking up the blue and painting your sky. The distress ink is not as concentrated. I tried to make it a little darker around the edges / corner.

Flower : Brush water over petals. Wet brush and pick up orange #13. I start out light, adding color from base outward keeping some area's darker as shown above, but I did go back a second time and add more concentrated orange to create shadows.

To create move depth, I added some brown as I had on the wings and tulip. I think you can see the difference in the previous photo and this one and tell where I added it. I didn't worry about trying to blended it, because I knew I was going over it again with orange.

Add more orange to get the look you want. But the other thing I did that you can really see in this photo is pick up some concentrated yellow and added it from the tips inward to blend with the orange. That really highlighted some area's and made it pop. I added some brown to the flower center.

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial and are encouraged to try coloring some of your images with watercolors. I have 2 more tutorials coming up in the future. Using the other 2 images from this set.

And if you missed my post yesterday .... I have been added to the Speedy TV DT and I'm so excited. So you will be seeing more Mark's Finest Papers projects on my blog. Speedy TV is a NING site and because I'm new over their, I don't have a lot of friends. So ..... I'm making a somewhat desperate plea, teehee, by asking you to hop over, join the site and friend me. To encourage you, I'm doing a give-away. I will be giving away 3 gifts on October 25th to 3 of my new friends (MFP DT excluded). Sorry I don't have photo's yet. It's been a busy week. But I will be posting photo's of the prizes later this week.

MFP Speedy TV

My page

THANK YOU!! for all your encouraging comments and support!

hugs,

Melisa