Call Me Crafty Al

Just A Reminder - I've Moved...

2012-01-10T10:51:00.000-06:00

For the first time since moving my blog {HERE}, I have actually made a card. :) I hope you will come check out my card for the latest Whimsie Doodles challenge {HERE}. One lucky player who uses a Whimsie Doodles image will be our March Guest Artist!!

Please join me...

2011-12-31T20:46:00.000-06:00

...at my new blog address: http://shesmakingcards.blogspot.com

Wanna Be a Guest Artist at Whimsie Doodles?!?!

2011-11-17T08:58:00.001-06:00

Just a reminder that you still have a little over a week to join us for the new November Challenge at Whimsie Doodles. Starting this month there will be one lucky winner each month who will join us as a guest artist in a future month. Get all of the details {HERE}.

Make sure to LIKE Whimsie Doodles on Facebook as well - from time-to-time Melyssa gives out FREEBIES to our Fans.

Whimsie Doodles November Challenge and a VERY EXCITING Announcement

2011-11-10T09:26:00.000-06:00

It is time for a new challenge on the Whimsie Doodles blog! This month, we are challenging our fans/readers to a Tag, You're It theme. You can decorate a tag or use a tag as the focal point of a card or other project.I used one of the adorable images from the 'Tis the Season Images set to decorate the tag above. Once it was ready to go, I created the sentiment banner and adhered it to my 'snowy' card base.

And now the really exciting part...

Starting this month there will be two (2) lucky winners. In addition to the random winner, there is now a chance for one (1) lucky player to win a Guest Artist spot during a future month! Make sure to see THIS post for all of the details - I hope you will play along.

Just the details… (1) Placed mini red buttons over the buttons on the image, (2) Adhered the layers with foam tape, (3) Stamped my sentiment in red and hand-cut the banner shape, (4) For my snowy hills, I used an oldie-but-goody technique - paper tearing, (5) Colored the image with colored pencils.

Challenges used for this card:

Whimsie Doodles - Tag, You're It!

Don't forget...

Whimsie Doodles has moved into some new digs on Facebook and we hope you will {Like Us}. There is an adorable elf digital freebie for those who stop by soon.

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamp: Whimsie Doodles ('Tis the Season Images); Other Stamps: StudioG (sentiment); Patterned Paper: BasicGrey (Jovial); Cardstock: Neenah (Ivory, Solar White); Inks: Laser Printer, StudioG (red); Colored Pencils: Prismacolor; Die Cut: Quickutz / Lifestyle Crafts (Nesting Tags); Border Punch: Stampin' Up! (scallop); Other: mini buttons

LIKE the NEW Whimsie Doodles Fan Page

2011-11-07T09:12:00.000-06:00

Whimsie Doodles has moved into some new digs on Facebook and we hope you will {Like Us}. There is an adorable elf digital freebie for those who stop by soon.

Whimsie Doodles' November Release

2011-11-05T11:03:00.000-05:00

Today is NEW Release Day at Whimsie Doodles! Here's a look at the new images available starting today. Aren't the little Elflings too cute?! And the 'Expecting' images would be great for a New-Mom-To-Be card or gift. Click on the DT member links to the left to see what the design team has created and you can purchase the images HERE at the online store.

Elflings

Shy Fairy

Cookie Fairy

Expecting (download includes both images)

New Cards in My Etsy Store

2011-10-24T18:21:00.002-05:00

Pin ItA couple weeks ago I shared that I had opened an Etsy store. Today I uploaded some NEW cards, that you can give to a special teacher, or teacher friend, in your life.

I used the same background as my Personalized Teacher Note Cards, but used different teacher related quotes that I found during an online search.

Each card is 3-hole-punched, as the right corners rounded and features a paper-pieced apple atop a cork scalloped circle.

You can check out my Etsy store HERE.

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

My Etsy Store is Open!

2011-10-11T20:18:00.001-05:00

When I posted my Personalized Teacher Notecards earlier in the year, I had many readers take advantage of the printable freebie I provided, as well as contacting me to have a file personalized for them. There were also many inquiries as to whether or not I sold completed sets. Guess what?! Now there is!

I have opened my own etsy store and am selling these personalized note cards in sets of 10 and 20. There is also a listing for file personalization for you to create your own.

If there is a teacher in your life, and you need a nice gift idea, I hope you will check them out.

Whimsie Doodles' October Challenge - Think Pink

2011-10-10T12:00:00.007-05:00

The new October challenge is posted {HERE} on the Whimsie Doodles blog. This month we are asking you to think pink when creating your project. You can either create a card that is specifically for Breast Cancer Awareness, or a project that uses pink as its main color.

If you are looking for an image to use, and don't have any in your stash, may I suggest these Whimsie Doodles images? They are each only $2 and all proceeds are donated to breast cancer research.

Save The Hooters & Get 'em Squished

Hope Fights & Hope Fights Skirt (last year's BCA images - scroll to bottom of store page)

Get all of the details HERE.

A little magic... Woodware USA Challenge #47

2011-10-10T09:20:00.000-05:00

Pin ItIt is time to share my final Woodware USA Challenge (WWUSAC47 - Anything Goes) card with you. I have enjoyed working with Woodware USA stamps and the team over the past 8 months.

I decided to keep today's card very clean & simple (CAS). I used a few of the accessory stamps from Woodware USA's Spooky Tots set (pictured at left) to create the tag focal point for the card. Next I used some scraps of Echo Park's Happy Halloween papers for the circles across the front. Before adhering the tag to the card, I added some twine to the top an colored in the moon.

Make sure to check out all of the cards by the design team, and find out how to play along with the current challenge, HERE.

Just the details… (1) Used some scraps for the patterned paper circles, (2) Knotted a few pieces of twine at the top of the tag, (3) Adhered tag with foam dots for dimension.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #47 Anything Goes

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Spooky Tots); Patterned Paper: Echo Park (Happy Halloween); Cardstock: Neenah (Natural Ice); Ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Markers: COPIC; Twine: The Twinery (Mandarin); Die Cut: Quickutz / Lifestyle Crafts (Nesting Tags); Paper Punch: Marvy Uchida (1" Circle)

Have A Magical Day - Woodware USA Challenge 46

2011-10-03T09:16:00.000-05:00

Pin ItTime for another fun challenge on the Woodware USA blog! This week the theme is Anything Goes (WWUSAC46), so I inked up their Wizardry set for my card. This stamp set has lots of cute wizard-related images and reminds me a lot of Harry Potter.

I was inspired by a challenge on the 365 Cards (Day 213) blog to create this card-on-a-card. The base was just covered with a patterned paper, then a small card was created to go on top of that.

To check out what the design team made for this challenge, and to find out how you can play along, click HERE.

Just the details… (1) Stamped and cut out the Spells book on green CS and adhered with foam tape, (2) A look at how the card opens, (3) Used the little star stamps from the set and stamped them in light yellow around the top of the magic wand, (4) Adhered some of the background PP onto the back of a clear button.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #46 Anything Goes

CAS-ual Fridays - CFC22 Feeling Loopy

365 Cards - Day 213 Card on a Card

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Wizardry); Patterned Paper: Target; Cardstock: Georgia Pacific (white), Stampin' Up! (green); Inks: Memento (Tuxedo Black), VersaMagic (Thatched Straw); Twine: The Twinery (Honeydew); Ribbon: BasicGrey; Buttons: Foo Fa La (clear); Corner Rounder: The Paper Studio

Keep Calm and Save On - 30% off at Whimsie Doodles Today!

2011-09-30T12:53:00.000-05:00

Are you getting ready for World Card Making Day tomorrow?! Do you need some fantastic new images to add to your cards? Make sure to check out the Whimsie Doodles online store because today (Friday, September 30th) Melyssa is offering 30% off everything in the store!! Use the code SEPTSALE30 at checkout to receive the discount.

If you were thinking of making cards or tags for Halloween, make sure to check out the What's NEW page for lots of cute images, including these Halloween Hootenannies...

or Frankie and his Girl...

2012 Calendar Printable FREEBIE

2011-09-27T09:00:00.000-05:00

ETA: I have had a few people contact me/ask about the font used for the titles. It is MA Sexy and I downloaded it for free HERE.

For the past couple years I have shared a free* calendar printable, and this year is no exception. Download my 2012 Calendar Printable FREEBIE by clicking HERE. (Password: calendar)

This file will print as a single 11" x 8.5" with each calendar being 3.5" x 2" (standard business card size) when cut.

Cutting Instructions: Make sure the file prints at 100%. Trim 0.25" off all edges, then cut to 3.5" wide by 2" tall.

*This file is FREE for PERSONAL use, if you will be selling items using these calendars, please contact me about Commercial Use at crafty_al@comcast.net. If you create any projects using the calendars, please link up this post if possible.

Happy Fall - Woodware USA Challenge 45

2011-09-26T08:00:00.039-05:00

Pin ItFor the new challenge on the Woodware USA Blog (WWUSAC45), we are challenging you to create a Fall card/project. While I didn't have a WWUSA stamp set that screamed 'Fall', I knew the cute little trees in their Patch A House stamp set would be great for a fall card.

The decorative strip on my card was inspired by {THIS CARD} at Splitcoast Stampers. I was drawn to the wide ribbon and how some of the elements on the circle were adhered with foam dots. For the sentiment, I used the 'happy' stamp from Woodware USA's Daffodils stamp set, then spelled out 'Fall' with homemade glitter stickers.

Click {HERE} to see what the rest of the design team created for the challenge, and to find out how you can play along and be entered in the monthly prize drawing!

Just the details… (1) Paper-pieced the tree and adhered the branches/leaves with foam dots, (2) Made my own glitter alpha stickers using die cut letters, glitter and a Xyron, (3) Used lots of foam dots for extra dimension and layers.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #45 Fall Card
Splitcoast Stampers - CAS137 Paper-Piecing

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Daffodils, Patch A House); Patterned Paper: Die Cuts With A View (Amber Autumn); Cardstock: Neenah (Natural Ice); Inks: Ranger (Sepia), Memento (Tuxedo Black); Markers: COPIC; Glitter: Martha Stewart (Peridot); Die Cuts: Quickutz/Lifestyle Crafts (Chocolat font), Spellbinders (Labels 18, Circles, Scalloped Circles); Other: Xyron

Just Because - Woodware USA Challenge 44

2011-09-19T06:00:00.036-05:00

Pin It Kerry has created a fun round card sketch for this week's Woodware USA Challenge (WWUSAC44). I decided to keep it clean and simple using a butterfly die cut and one of the sentiments from Woodware USA's Daffodils stamp set.

For the card base, I used a scalloped circle die cut and placed it on the very edge of a folded piece of blue cardstock. On top of this I added an off-white, embossed, circle and the sentiment stamped onto a pink sentiment banner.

To see all of the cards the Woodware USA Design Team created, and to find out how you can play along and be entered to win the monthly prize, click {HERE}.

Just the details… (1) Placed gems along the butterfly's 'body' and folded the wings up a bit, (2) For some extra texture I used a polka dot embossing folder and textured cardstock for the sentiment.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #44 Sketch

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Daffodils); Cardstock: Neenah (Natural Ice), Bazzill (Petunia), Unknown (blue); Ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Die Cut: Cuttlebug (Butterfly), Spellbinders (Circle, Scalloped Circle); Embossing: Cuttlebug (Polka Dots)

Meet the New Divas Blog Hop

2011-09-15T09:09:00.000-05:00

Make sure to check out the Meet the New Divas Blog Hop post {HERE} on the Whimsie Doodles blog. The new team has lots of lovely eye candy for you and one lucky hopper will win some Whimsie Doodles goodness!

Silver Christmas Tree - Woodware USA Challenge 43

2011-09-12T09:20:00.001-05:00

Pin ItThe theme for this week's Woodware USA challenge is Happy Holidays (WWUSAC43). I decided to use their Tree of Gifts clear stamp set to create this clean and simple, clear Christmas card.

I started the card by stamping the christmas tree with watermark ink onto white card, then heat embossed the image with silver embossing powder. Once this piece was trimmed down, I matted it with some red cardstock and adhered it to the front of a clear card blank. For the inside I cut a strip of white cardstock, then stamped and embossed the 'Merry Christmas' sentiment. This was placed onto a piece of metallic silver cardstock. Lots of shine in this card.

To see what the rest of the design team created, and to find out how you can play along and be entered to win our monthly prize, click HERE.

Just the details… (1) Used silver embossing powder on the tree image, (2) Adhered front layers with foam tape for extra dimension, (3) For the sentiment on the inside I used a sparkly red embossing powder, (4) A look at the closed card - you can still see the silver cardstock inside, but not the personal message panel.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #43 Happy Holidays

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Tree of Gifts); Cardstock: DCWV (metallic silver), Georgia Pacific (white), Reminisce (red), ShortCuts (clear); Ink: Versamark; Embossing Powder: Ranger (Silver), Stampendous (Red Tinsel)

Batty 4 U - Whimsie Doodles September Challenge

2011-09-10T10:00:00.000-05:00

Pin ItBeginning this month I am the new Challenge Coordinator for Whimsie Doodles! For September challenge, I have posted a Photo Inspiration Challenge. I found the picture to the left while searching for Halloween scenes online and was thrilled when Sally J Shim said I could repost for the challenge. I just loved the clean and simple feel of it, but there was also lots of different items/ideas to take inspiration from.

For my card I have used the NEW Halloween Hootenannies (which are also available in a gift tag version) to create this business-sized card. The photo inspired the black banner, bat image, circle embossed with a spiderweb and the white/black/orange color combo.

All of the challenge details can be found {HERE} as well as lots of eye candy from the design team.

Just the details… (1) The banner flags were strung together with orange twine, (2) Used a spiderweb embossing folder for the image mat, (3) Added some white glitter to the '4' only, (4) Used foam dots to adhere most of the items for extra dimension.

Challenges used for this card:

Whimsie Doodles - September Photo Inspiration Challenge

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Whimsie Doodles (Halloween Hootenannies); Cardstock: COPIC (Xpress It Blending), Georgia Pacific (white), unknown (orange, black); Ink: Laser Printer; Markers: COPIC; Die Cut: Quickutz / Lifestyle Crafts (Chocolate font), Sizzix (Naturally Serif font), Spellbinders (Nested Pennants, Circles, Scalloped Circles); Twine: The Twinery (Mandarin); Glitter: Martha Stewart (white)

Some New Whimsie Doodles Sponsorships!

2011-09-08T09:31:00.001-05:00

Whimsie Doodles is sponsoring some great challenge blogs this week. Click on the links below to find out how you can play along to be entered to win some Whimsie Doodles goodies.

Birthday Sundaes Challenge #25 {LINK}

Scrap-Creations Winter Wishes Challenge {LINK}

CRAFT Challenge #119 Children {LINK}

Whimsie Doodles September Release Day

2011-09-05T08:20:00.001-05:00

This is my 2nd post today, make sure to check out my Woodware USA Challenge card HERE.

Pin ItIt is New Release Day at Whimsie Doodles! This month Melyssa has created a bunch of adorable images for you that are perfect for your Back-to-School and Halloween projects...and a little Steam Punk, too! These images are so much fun to color-- and we know you'll love them as much as we do! They are pictured together here in the preview, but they are available as individual images on the Whimsie Doodles website {HERE}.

We also have these adorable Halloween Gift Tags that are just perfect for classroom or co-worker treats! Click {HERE} to check them out!

For my card today, I have used the NEW School Lizzie. For the base of my card I used my Teacher Notecard Printable FREEBIE. The 'Just A Note' on the design was covered up by the hand-made ticket. Lizzie was colored, cut out and placed on top of a decorated cork die cut.

Be sure to visit the Doodlelicious Diva blogs (see links to the left) to see their projects using all of the NEW September images!

Just the details… (1) Created my own ticket using a die and stamp set, (2) Added some gems to the cork die cut, (3) Stamped a border of numbers and letters across the bottom of die cut, (3) Punched and cut the card base to look like a real piece of paper... 3-hole-punched, corner-rounded and all.

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamp: Whimsie Doodles (School Lizzie); Clear Stamps: Autumn Leaves (Ticketed), Hampton Arts (Number Border); Cardstock: Neenah (Solar White); Inks: Laser Printer, Ranger (Sepia); Markers (COPIC); Gems: Crystal Stickers (red); Die Cut: Papertrey Ink (Ticket Border), Spellbinders (Labels 18); Paper Punch: The Paper Studio (Corner Rounder); Other: Cork Paper, Crop-A-Dile, Just A Note Printable FREEBIE

So Timeless Frame - Woodware USA Challenge #42

2011-09-05T08:13:00.000-05:00

Pin ItA few weeks ago I found some small red and black frames in the Target Dollar Spot. Since this week's challenge at Woodware USA is Anything Goes (WWUSAC42), I thought using one of these frames to create an altered item would be perfect.

The stamped and glittered image, along with the sentiment, is from Woodware USA's Elegant Cameos set. This is seriously one of my favorite sets to use. I just love the different silhouettes and the included frames. For some added dimension, I removed the 'glass' from the frame and adhered the layers with foam tape.

To see what the rest of the design team created, and to find out how you can play along and win our monthly prize, click HERE.

Just the details… (1) Stamped the silhouette with glue ink and covered it with red glitter, (2) the sentiment was stamped onto the oval die cut, then the piece was debossed and the edges were inked, (3) Removed the plastic cover on the frame and adhered the layers with foam tape for dimension.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #42 Anything Goes

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Elegant Cameos); Patterned Paper: My Mind's Eye (Stella & Rose - Hazel 6x6); Cardstock: Neenah (Natural Ice); Ink: Glue Pad, Memento (Desert Sand, Tuxedo Black); Glitter: Martha Stewart (Garnet); Gems: Unknown; Die Cut: Spellbinders (Ovals); Embossing Folder: Cuttlebug (Textile); Other: Target $ Spot (black frame)

Whimsie Doodles September Sneaky Snippet

2011-09-04T09:37:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is New Release Day at Whimsie Doodles!! This month Melyssa has created a lot of new fun and (a little bit) freaky images. I can't wait for you to see them all. Here is a little peek at the card I will be sharing with you tomorrow...

Upcoming COPIC Class - Ottumwa Iowa

2011-09-02T16:14:00.000-05:00

I have mentioned before that my sister and her husband opened a store earlier this year in their hometown of Ottumwa, Iowa - Craft & Hobby Connection. I taught a Clear Card Class there in March and had so much fun meeting all of the friendly ladies in my classes.

Recently Lisa let me know they are having a COPIC Coloring Class and I am so sad I can't be there. It is being taught by Pam Sparks, whose coloring technique I have admired for some time, and here are the adorable images you will learn/practice on...

Class Details:

Saturday, September 10th

10:00 a.m.

Cost is $25 and you will go home with a COPIC marker!!

If you would like to get signed up for class (pre-payment required), you can call the store at 641-954-9049. Space is limited, so call soon.

Bewitched By You - Whimsie Wednesday Challenge

2011-08-31T12:19:00.000-05:00

Pin ItThis week is my turn to host another (and my last) Whimsie Wednesday Challenge on the Whimsie Doodles blog!! This week, I have asked our fans/readers to create a card or project that uses their favorite image / stamp.

For my card today I have used Whimsie Doodles' Witchy Girl digital set. I purchased this stamp a couple of years ago, before I was a Doodlelicious Diva. I think what drew me to this image the most is her funky glasses. I have worn glasses for almost 30 years and was excited to see a stamp image with glasses, that wasn't childish - she is stylin' in her specs. With Halloween coming up, I thought it was the perfect time to put my favorite image to use.

The card base was cut from clear cardstock and folded along the top. Since you can see the inside of the card through the front, I adhered some purple, glittery paper inside and then a white cardstock piece for a handwritten note. The image was glued to the front and covers up the white CS on the inside. I hand cut the sentiment in a tag-shape, and tied it on with The Twinery's Lilac, Charcoal and Mardarin twines.

Click HERE to find out how you can play along with my challenge this week and win some Whimsie Doodles goodies!!

Just the details… (1) Added a trio of gems to the sentiment tag, (2) Used coordinating colors of twine to tie on the sentiment, (3) The image on the front covers the white CS inside.

Challenges used for this card:

Whimsie Wednesday - Favorite Image / Stamp

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Whimsie Doodles (Witchy Girl); Patterned Paper: Target $ Spot; Cardstock: ShortCuts (clear); Twine: The Twinery (Lilac, Charcoal, Mandarin); Gems: Studio18 (orange); Corner Rounder: The Paper Studio

May Peace... Woodware USA Challenge #41

2011-08-29T14:17:00.000-05:00

Pin ItThis is the card I created for the latest challenge on the Woodware USA blog - WWUSAC41. This week we are asking our readers and fans to create a 3-2-1 card/project. This means you use...

3 - Patterned Papers

2 - Embellishments

1 - Image

I used three different Christmas-related papers and for my embellishments I used some Maraschino twine from The Twinery and created my own clear embellishment. The clear piece of the card was inspired by a project I saw in the latest CARDS magazine (Grace Tolman - page 79). I used white StazOn and some holly leaves from Woodware USA's Tree of Gifts stamp set. For the single image, I used one of the sentiments from Woodware USA's Christmas Labels set.

Make sure to click HERE to see all of the design team creations and find out how you can play along and be entered to win the monthly prize!

Just the details… (1) Tied some red twine around the bottom of sentiment, (2) Adhered sentiment with foam dots, (3) Stamped some holly leaves onto a piece of clear cardstock for a hand-made embellishment.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #41 3-2-1 Challenge

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Christmas Labels, Tree of Gifts); Patterned Paper: Cloud9 Design (Harvest Holiday Mat Stack); Cardstock: ShortCuts (clear), Neenah (Natural Ice); Inks: StazOn (White), StudioG (red); Twine: The Twinery (Maraschino); Paper Punch: The Paper Studio (corner rounder); Border Punch: Fiskars (Upper Crest)

And the winner is...

2011-08-24T08:00:00.001-05:00

Thank you to all of you who participated in my blog candy post last week. After going through and cleaning up the comments, there were a total of 74 entries! I used random.org to pick the winning comment and here is what I got...

That means the winner is...

Congratulations, Vicki!! I will be in touch with you soon.

Gifts of Love and Joy - Woodware USA Challenge #40

2011-08-22T09:06:00.000-05:00

Pin ItThis week at the Woodware USA blog, we are challenging our fans and readers to create a project using a new technique (WWUSAC40). For a bit now I have wanted to try the Decreasing Apertures technique shared on THIS video, so it was a great time to give it a try.

For the image and sentiment in the 'window' I used Woodware USA's Tree of Gifts clear stamp set. The patterned paper layers were cut from a new Christmas paper pad I bought at Hobby Lobby.

To see all of the other design team member creations, and to find out how to play along and be entered to win the monthly prize, click HERE.

Just the details… (1) Created my own glittered frame using die cuts and red glitter, (2) I used different dies to create the apertures and some of the layers were adhered with foam tape.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #40 Try A New Technique

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Tree of Gifts); Patterned Paper: The Paper Studio (Christmas Basics); Cardstock: Georgia Pacific (white); Inks: Memento (Rhubarb Stalk), Studio G (green); Glitter: Martha Stewart (garnet); Die Cuts: Spellbinders (Labels 17, Labels 16, Circles, Small Scalloped Circles)

Blog Candy - Sponsored by Woodware USA

2011-08-17T13:00:00.001-05:00

ETA:Comments are now closed. Winner will be announced soon.

A little while back all of the Woodware USA Design Team members got some extra goodies with their monthly stamp package. It was up to each of us what we did with them. Guess what? I have decided to share the love and award one (1) lucky reader with the goodies pictured above!!

Included in the prize pack are:

Woodware USA's Sweet Tooth clear stamp set (A $15 Retail Value!)

Two (2) COPIC Ciao markers (YR04 & C3)

One (1) Reminisce White Pen

Two (2) Paper Crafting Kits

Here is how you can earn up to ten (10) entries into the drawing...

One (1) entry just for leaving a COMMENT on this post

One (1) entry for becoming a FOLLOWER of my blog*

One (1) entry for becoming a FOLLOWER of Woodware USA's blog*

Two (2) entries for visiting the Woodware USA Online Store and leaving a comment on this post with your FAVORITE STAMP SET(S)

Five (5) entries for JOINING us in this week's Woodware USA challenge (WWUSAC39) (As a side note, this will also enter you into Woodware USA's monthly prize drawing!)

To be entered to win...

Simply leave a comment on this post for each of the entries you have selected from the list above.

ie: If you become a follower of my blog, you will leave one (1) comment for that and if you play along with the WWUSAC39 challenge, you will need to leave five (5) separate comments.

Rules...

All Entries/Comments must be left by Midnight CST on Monday, August 22nd.

Blog candy is open to all readers - USA & International.

Make sure if your comments are linked to a profile without 'Contact Me' info, that you leave your email address in each comment.

A randomly chosen winner will be announced here on my blog no later than next Wednesday at Midnight (August 24th).

Any comments not following the rules/criteria above, will be deleted and your entry will be disqualified.

While you are waiting for the winner to be announced, make sure to check out all of Woodware USA's NEW Fall Releases

*If you already follow either blog, through Blogger or a blog reader, go ahead and leave the appropriate number of comments - you don't need to be a new follower.

Pin-spired: Photo-In-A-Photo School Edition

2011-08-16T16:27:00.001-05:00

Pin ItAre you like me and have been 'pinning' like crazy at Pinterest?! I have tons of pins (304 as of right now) that I hope to utilize in real life some day. So far I have tried this Hawaiian Crock Pot Chicken (it was easy AND delicious) and was inspired by this photo (also pictured below) to start a new first-day-of-school tradition.

My daughter started kindergarten today and I thought it would be fun to start doing 'picture within a picture' shots for all of her first-day-of-school photos. Today she held a picture from last Fall - her first day of Preschool. Next year she will hold the picture you see above. I know by the time she is in Middle School, the PreK picture will be too small to probably make out, but it will be so fun to compare pictures from year-to-year.

I was able to get the 12x18 print at Costco for only $2.50 (compared to Walgreens for like $12) and I bought the frame at Michaels for $7.50 with a coupon. Next year it will just be the cost of the print, since the frame is already ours.

Have you been inspired by any of your pins lately?! You can follow my board(s) by clicking below.

Just For You Gift Tag - Woodware USA Challenge

2011-08-15T08:00:00.031-05:00

Pin ItFor this week's challenge at Woodware USA (WWUSAC39), Kerry has created a sketch for us to use in our project. I decided to create a little gift tag/card using a couple of the 'accessory stamps' from Woodware USA's Tree of Gifts stamp set.

I started by covering the 3x3 card with a patterned paper. On top of that I adhered the spiral-edge-punched off-white piece, which had the bird, string and sentiment stamped on it. I finished it off with a paper-pieced present and some twine.

To get all of the details on the challenge, including how to be entered to win the monthly prize, and to see what the rest of the design team created, click HERE.

Just the details… (1) Paper-pieced the bird and present, (2) Wrapped twine around the spiral-punched edge.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #39 Sketch

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Tree of Gifts); Patterned Paper: Basic Grey (Jovial); Cardstock: Neenah (Natural Ice); Inks: Memento (Rich Cocoa, Desert Sand, Rhubarb Stalk); Twine: The Twinery (Honeydew); Paper Punch: Stampin' Up! (notebook), The Paper Studio (corner rounder)

Re-Post - Teacher Note Card Printable FREEBIE

2011-08-13T08:00:00.006-05:00

Today's post was originally posted on May 7th. Since many of you have children that have just started, or are getting ready to start, back to school, I wanted to bump this up. Would make a nice 'back to school gift' for a teacher...

As I mentioned on yesterday's post, I am back with a printable FREEBIE that will help you to create notecards for a special teacher in your life! If you would like yours personalized (ie: my samples yesterday read 'from the desk of Ms. Teacher', see below for a low-cost option for personalization.

To download your FREE copy for Personal Use, just click HERE.

If prompted for a password, enter: crafty (all lowercase)

Printing Tip

When printing the 8.5x11 PDF file, make sure to print at 100%. Don't select any reduce/shrink to fit options. This will result in your cards being too small, and the cutting instructions won't work.

Cutting Instructions

The cards are set up to be 8.25" x 5.25" flat and 4.125" x 5.25" when folded. These will fit in a standard A2 envelope, but are slightly smaller than normal A2s. This is the only way you can get 2-per page and have the lines bleed off the front of the card.

After you have printed your pages (see above for printing tip), you will cut .25" off the top, right and bottom edges, then cut each card to 5.25" tall. If your printer shifts the paper at all when printing, you may need to eyeball your cutting so the lines bleed.

Assembly Tips

I have placed small gray circles to the left of the red lines to use as guides for 3-hole punching. When putting mine together I folded them first, then punched through both layers with a Crop-A-Dile.

The horizontal lines will wrap around to the back of the card when folded. This is to make sure the lines bleed off the left edge of the card front.

After folding you can round the corners if you choose. When making mine, I rounded only the 2 right corners, leaving the folded edge alone.

Low-Cost Personalization Option

For only $2.00*, I will create and send you a personalized PDF file.

*Sales tax will be added to orders placed by customers in Kansas.

Need more than one personalized file? Place multiple orders at same time and each additional personalization is 25% off!!
*Once payments are received, I will manually credit each additional transaction by $0.50.
Orders must be placed at a single time, by PayPal account.

Like my samples yesterday, these cards will read:

from the desk of

Ms. TeacherName*

*When you place your order via the PayPal button below, you will let me know what text/teacher name you want on the 2nd line.

Order Process

Enter the EXACT TEXT you want placed on the 2nd line of card in the "Your Personalized Text here" box below. (If this step is skipped, the standard turnaround time for proof may not be met.)
Click on Buy Now to place your order via PayPal.
Within 48 hours, a proof of your card, will be sent to the email address used by PayPal for your approval.
Necessary changes are made and your finalized, print-ready, PDF will appear in your email inbox. Easy peasy.

If you have any questions before placing your order, feel free to email me HERE.

If you use either of the above options, I would love to see your final project. Please link it up in the comments section. Thanks!

Whimsie Doodles Design Team Call

2011-08-11T10:40:00.001-05:00

Digital Stamp DESIGN TEAM CALL....
Whimsie Doodles is looking for some new creative team members to start designing with us beginning September 1st to February 28, 2012.

You don't have to have any experience with working with printable (digital) stamps....but you do need to have a printer.

We are looking for the following:

-A few Team members that will create 3 projects* a month (1 per week) plus a release day project.

*Projects include but not limited to cards and or any other type of craft related item using digital stamps from Whimsie Doodles.

-One Tutorial/Video team member that will create 3 tutorials per month, they can be photo tutorials or YouTube videos. This person is responsible for uploading the projects and posting them on the Whimsie Doodles blog. These projects can be any craft related type of project

-A few Scrapbook artists to create 3 layouts per month using Whimsie Doodles images.

To be considered you will need to have an active blog to upload your projects to and post to another online gallery of your choice...

Compensation: You will have access to all of the items that Whimsie Doodles sells as well as receive all new releases.

$$ for cards/projects using Whimsie Doodles digital stamps that are published in print magazines.

Please send your application to Whimsiedoodles@eastlink.ca (put in the subject line design team call)

Please include 3-4 samples that you feel are typical of your work.

A link to your blog and gallery

Call closes Aug 25,2011, acceptance email will be sent by Aug 29,2011

Her Own Sunshine - Whimsie Doodles

2011-08-10T08:00:00.037-05:00

Pin ItHave you checked out all of the NEW images from Whimsie Doodles yet? If not, head on over there and check them out. When you have all of your favorite images in your cart, make sure to use the discount code below to save money.

For my card today, I have used the female half of the NEW Stick Figures digital image. I just love the sentiment below her - She creates her own sunshine. Could be used for lots of different occasions.

I have seen many cards only where a 'burst' of patterned papers is cut for the background. I thought it would be perfect for this card, so I chose sunny shades of patterned paper and created some 'rays of sun'. After paper-piecing the printed image, I die cut it and adhered it to the right side of the card. Very easy card to put together.

Just the details… (1) Hand cut the 'rays of sunshine' for the background, (2) Used coordinating markers to highlight parts of the sentiment, (3) Hand cut a shape to paper-piece the dress.

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Whimsie Doodles (Stick Couple); Patterned Paper: DCWV; Cardstock: COPIC (Xpress It Blending); Ink: Laser Printer; Markers: COPIC

Very Special Christmas - Woodware USA Challenge

2011-08-08T08:00:00.047-05:00

Pin ItThe challenge this week at Woodware USA (WWUSAC38), is to create a project using red, kraft and one other color. Keeping with my Christmas-theme for my Woodware USA creations this month, I used their Christmas Labels stamp set again and chose white as my third color.

To start off the card, I embossed the card base with polka dots. Layered on top were two cardstock strips (one in red, one in kraft), that had been stamped with the holly leaf accessory stamp from the set. After stamping the label image onto white cardstock, I hand-cut it out, added some gems and adhered it to the red piece.

To see all of the Woodware USA DT cards for this challenge, and to find out how to play along and be entered to win our monthly prize, click HERE.

Just the details… (1) Placed small red gems over stamped berries, (2) Folded and adhered red CS strip so it would raise the sentiment off the card, (3) Embossed the card base and used white ink on the center strip to add more detail to the large kraft-colored area.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - WWUSAC38 Red, Kraft and 1 Color

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Christmas Labels); Cardstock: Wausau (kraft), Recollections (red), Georgia Pacific (white); Inks: CTMH (White Daisy), Ranger (Sepia); Gems: Crystal Stickers; Die Cut: Spellbinders (Labels 7); Embossing: Cuttlebug (Polka Dots)

August Release Day at Whimsie Doodles!

2011-08-05T10:15:00.000-05:00

Pin It It's new release day at Whimsie Doodles and to celebrate, we are having a little party with Lily Pad Cards! Visit each of our Doodlelicious Diva blogs (click their links in the left sidebar!!) today to see their card featuring our NEW August images and the Lily Pad color combo below...

For my NEW release card I have used one of the two new adorable clock images - Circus Clock. It features a a fun circus tent, with some adorable animals.

To go along with the challenge, I only colored in parts of the image, making sure to use shades of brown and blue only. After I was done coloring, I went over the entire image in a very light tan, to mute the colors a bit more, and so the white cardstock the image was printed on, would blend in more.

Just the details… (1) Colored in just part of the image to match the color challenge, (2) Stamped the sentiment onto the same paper as the base and created a tab that peeked out from behind the image mat, (3) used some blue ribbon to create a faux bow.

Check out the challenge post at Lily Pad Cards to see what their Design Team has done with the NEW August images and find out how you can win a $15 Gift Certificate to the Whimsie Doodles Online Store!

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Challenges used for this card:

Lily Pad Cardz - Kathy's Color Palette

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital stamp: Whimsie Doodles (Circus Clock); Rubber Stamps: Whimsie Doodles (Baby Joy); Patterned Paper: DCWV (Linen Closet); Cardstock: COPIC (Xpress It Blending); Ink: Laser Printer, Ranger (Sepia); Markers: COPIC; Ribbon: Miss Elizabeth's; Brads: Making Memories; Border Punch: Stampin' Up! (Scallop)

Whimsie Doodles August Sneaky Snippet!

2011-08-04T11:53:00.000-05:00

It is almost that time again... Tomorrow Whimsie Doodles will be debuting more fabulous new digital images! For today I am going to share a little look at the card that will be shared tomorrow...

Make sure to check out THIS post to see all of the sneaky snippets and learn a little about the 'party' tomorrow.

Oh, Christmas Tree... Woodware USA Challenge 37

2011-08-01T08:00:00.041-05:00

Pin ItFor this month's Woodware USA challenges, I am going to be sharing cards using just a couple of their Christmas-themed stamp sets - Tree of Gifts & Christmas Labels. It's never too early to get started on your holiday cards, right? The new challenge for this week (WWUSAC37) is Anything Goes!

For the main image on this card, I used the large tree image from Tree of Gifts, stamped it with black ink and only colored in parts using a red COPIC marker. This helped to tie in the patterned paper in the background.

Since I wanted the image to be the focal point, while still including a sentiment, I used vellum to create the sentiment banner. The words came from one of the label images in the Christmas Labels set. The banner is folded and adhered in a way that makes it stand up off the card - really like the dimension it adds.

You can get all of the details on the challenge HERE. Make sure to play along and be entered to win the monthly prize.

Just the details… (1) Placed a star-shaped gem over the stamped star at the top of the tree, (2) Used smaller star-shaped gems on the vellum flag to tie in with the tree topper, (3) Folded and adhered the vellum strip so it was raised up off the card.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #37 Anything Goes

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Christmas Labels, Tree of Gifts); Patterned Paper: Hobby Lobby (Magic of the Season); Cardstock: Neenah (Natural Ice); Inks: Memento (Tuxedo Black), StazOn (Jet Black); Markers: COPIC; Gems: Darice (stars); Border Punch: Stampin' Up! (Scallop); Other: vellum

To Dive For - Whimsie Wednesday Challenge

2011-07-31T19:25:00.001-05:00

Pin ItToday's card was created for the latest Whimsie Wednesday Challenge, where Sheri has challenged Whimsie Doodles fans/readers to create a project using Polka Dots. The adorable little diver image is just one of the NEW July images from Whimsie Doodles - Diving Koale. He also has a cute female counterpart - Diving Leah.

This layout for this card was inspired by THESE cards; one of my many pins over at Pinterest. To get started I laid out the Diving Koale image and sentiment on my computer, so everything would be in the correct place after folding, then printed it onto cardstock.

To go along with the polka dot theme, I used various colors of polka dotted papers to create the border across the bottom. Each square measured .75". After coloring Koale in using colors take from the patterned papers, I created the brackets for the sentiment. These were created by adhering red checked paper to chipboard, then cutting it with a bookplate die.

You still have a couple of days to play along, so make sure to get all of the details HERE on how to link up your polka-dot creation and be entered to win a FREE Whimsie Doodles image!

Just the details… (1) Cut the center part from the bookplate to create brackets for the sides of the sentiment, (2) Koale was colored with COPIC markers, (3) Placed various colors ofpolka dotted paper squares across the bottom.

Challenges used for this card:

Whimsie Doodles - Polka Dots

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamp: Whimsie Doodles (Diving Koale); Patterned Paper: Jillibean Soup (Red, Yellow, Orange & Light Blue Sugar); Cardstock: COPIC (XpressIt Blending); Ink: Laser Printer; Markers: COPIC; Brads: The Paper Studio (white); Die Cut: Sizzix (Bookplates); Adhesive: Glue Dots (Memory Book)

Woodware USA Challenge #35 - Sketch by Kerry

2011-07-21T08:00:00.006-05:00

I am on vacation this week, but wanted to make sure to link you all up to the latest Woodware USA challenge (WWUSA35), which is a sketch that was created by Kerry, one of our design team members. You can get all of the details on how to play along HERE and check out all of Woodware USA's great stamps HERE

King of the {Sand} Castle - Whimsie Doodles

2011-07-20T08:00:00.026-05:00

Pin ItAs soon as I saw the NEW Pearl's Castle digital image from Whimsie Doodles, I knew I had to create a 3-D look for the little sand castle.

I started the card by printing everything onto a single sheet of kraft cardstock. One side contained the sentiment and image layed out for the card base, and the other half contained 3 more copies of the main image. If you look closely at the detail bar below you can see how I only cut out parts of the image to build the castle.

To finish the card off I adhered the top layers of the castle to the card base, which had the image colored with colored pencils and blended with gamsol. A very quick and easy card.

Make sure to check out all of the other adorable NEW images from Whimsie Doodles this month by clicking HERE.

Just the details… (1 & 2) A close up of the dimension I created with the sand castle, (3) I used colored pencils and gamsol to color in Pearl.

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamp: Whimsie Doodles (Pearl's Castle); Cardstock: Wausau (kraft); Ink: Laser Printer; Pencils: Prismacolor; Other: Gamsol, foam tape

Pool Party Pocket Invite - Whimsie Wednesday Challenge

2011-07-13T10:45:00.000-05:00

Pin ItI am hosting the newest challenge at the Whimsie Doodles blog, and I have asked our fans and readers to create a project using a pocket. For my card I have used the NEW Diving Leah to create a pool party invitation.

I started by creating the text for the invitation on my computer. After the details were printed and cut out, I rounded the edges and matted it. The pocket was created by folding a piece of pattern-paper-covered cardstock and adhering the left and right edges together. Diving Leah was colored with COPIC markers, then adhered to the pocket with foam tape.

To get all of the details on how to play along and win, click HERE. To see all of the adorable new summer-y images from Whimsie Doodles, click HERE.

Just the details… (1) A look at the invite details outside of the pocket, (2) Adhered a scalloped strip on the inside of the pocket front.

Challenges used for this card:

Whimsie Doodles - Pick Pocket

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamp: Whimsie Doodles (Diving Leah); Patterned Paper: Echo Park (Summer Days); Cardstock: COPIC (Xpress It Blending), Georgia Pacific (white); Border Punch: Stampin' Up! (scallop); Corner Punch: The Paper Studio; Computer Fonts: MA Sexy, ITC American Typewriter

Thinking of You - Woodware USA Challenge 34

2011-07-11T10:14:00.000-05:00

Pin ItThis week at Woodware USA, we are challenging our fans and readers to create a card or project using paper piecing (WWUSAC34). To create my card today, I have used Woodware USA's Daffodils clear stamp set.

To get my card started, I used some patterned papers and a scallop border punch to create the layers on the base. Next I stamped the main image from the Daffodils stamp set onto white cardstock. A portion of the same image was then stamped onto patterned paper. After die-cutting the cardstock image, and cutting out the flowers from the patterned paper image, I adhered the flowers with foam tape... giving some dimension to the paper-piecing.

To see the fabulous cards from all of the design team members, and to get details on how to play along, click HERE.

Just the details… (1) Edged the flowery patterned paper strip with some green scalloped paper strips, (2) Added dimension to the paper piecing by adhering flowers with foam tape, (3) Used a corner rounder on right edges of card.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #34 Paper Piecing

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Daffodils); Patterned Paper: BasicGrey (Lily Kate); Cardstock: Georgia Pacific (white), COPIC (Xpress It Blending); Marker: COPIC; Die Cut: Spellbinders; Border Punch: Stampin' Up! (scallop); Other: corner rounder

Sea Shell Phone - Whimsie Doodles July Release

2011-07-05T06:00:00.024-05:00

Pin ItToday is New Release Day at Whimsie Doodles, and I am back today to share the card I gave you a little peek at yesterday. I used the NEW Sea Shell Leah to create this summery card.

To bring some emphasis on the shell, and to tie in the sentiment, I used the Spotlight Technique. Using a second copy of the main image, I only colored in the shell and a small part of Leah. Since I had printed the sentiment onto white cardstock, I used a COPIC marker to color the cardstock. I just love how easy it is to match cardstock, gems, etc. with those markers.

To see the full Whimsie Doodles release, you can check out the What's New page in the online store and today's Whimsie Doodles Blog post.

Just the details… (1) Used the spotlight technique on just part of the image, (2) Colored the sentiment banner with a blue COPIC to match coloring on sea shell, (3) Used foam adhesive between the layers for more dimension.

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamps: Whimsie Doodles (Sea Shell Leah); Patterned Paper: Echo Park (Summer Days); Cardstock: COPIC (Xpress It Blending); Ink: Laser Printer; Markers: COPIC; Die Cuts: Spellbinders (Labels 5 & 17)

Whimsie Doodles July Sneaky Snippet

2011-07-04T14:03:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, July 5th, is New Release Day at Whimsie Doodles! Today I am sharing a little look at the card I will be sharing tomorrow...

For more Sneaky Snippets, check out the Whimsie Doodles blog post HERE.

Congratulations - Whimsie Wednesday Challenge

2011-07-01T08:34:00.001-05:00

Pin It Tobi is hostessing this week's Whimsie Wednesday Challenge, which is a recipe challenge. She has asked us to create a card using red, twine and 1 flower.

I used part of a sentiment stamp from Whimsie Doodles' Baby Joy stamp set to create a card for this challenge. To create my 'one flower' I used a die cut on the front of the card and a smaller one of the same size to create the flower center. Some twine was tied onto the sentiment banner to finish the card off.

Make sure to get all of the details HERE on how to play along and be entered to win Whimsie Doodles goodies.

Just the details… (1) Used an embossing folder on the topmost piece of red CS, (2) Used a couple different sizes of the same die to create the flower in the center, (3) Wrapped twine around the end of the sentiment banner.

Challenges used for this card:
Whimsie Doodles - Recipe: Red, Twine, 1 Flower

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Whimsie Doodles (Baby Joy); Cardstock: PTI (yellow), Unknown (red), Georgia Pacific (white); Twine: The Twinery (Lemondrop); Die Cut: Spellbinders (Blossoms 2); Embossing Folder: Cuttlebug (Tiny Bubbles); Other: Dollar Tree (dictionary)

Discount Ending Soon - Whimsie Doodles

2011-06-29T14:32:00.005-05:00

Don't forget, there is just two (2) more days left in June to use my special discount code (ALICIA10) for your Whimsie Doodles purchase. Just enter the code at checkout and SAVE 10% on your order!

You can see projects I have created with Whimsie Doodles images and digital template files HERE, and check out the Whimsie Doodles blog for even more samples

I've Been Published!! Create: Stamping

2011-06-29T10:05:00.000-05:00

Pin ItOne of the items on my 'bucket list' is to have a card published in a print magazine. Since I never really submitted work, I figured it would never happen. Imagine my surprise when on February 19, 2011 (yes, I remember the exact date), Jennifer Gallacher contacted me via Two Peas to see if I was interested in creating a sample for an upcoming publication... for Northridge Publishing... the maker of CARDS... my favorite magazine!! I about flipped. I couldn't answer her back fast enough.

I found out it was for a stamping technique special issue and was given a choice of two techniques to try out. I hadn't heard of either one, but that was not going to stop me. I did some research (thanks Barbara for helping me out) and created a card using the Wax Resist technique. I have to say, once I had the supplies together (wax paper, distress ink, iron, Whimsie Doodles' Baby Joy stamp set), it was easy and the results were very fun.

Because I am a master procrastinator, I waited until the very last day to send in my photo via email for approval. 'Butterflies in my stomach' would have been an understatement that day... 'wild birds' would be a better fit. When the 'This is EXACTLY what I was looking for.' email came back, I'll bet the whole neighborhood heard the scream.

When the Create: Stamping issue arrived in my mailbox a couple weekends ago (I am a subscriber to the special issues too), I was still in denial that my card would be in there. I figured they got the card, realized I was an amateur and decided to go a different route. Then I saw it... on page 58... and screamed again.

If you're not a subscriber, I hope you will pick the issue up on your next crafty-shopping trip. There are tons of gorgeous samples and great techniques to try out.

ETA: It looks like if you buy it online, you get a special issue FREE with your purchase.

Whimsie Wednesday - Fruits and Veggies

2011-06-28T08:41:00.000-05:00

Pin ItFor the latest Whimsie Wednesday challenge, Nikki, has challenged us to create a project with a "Fruits and Veggies" theme. I just had to use Whimsie Doodles' Sentiment Edibles digital set for this one. It is chock full of cute fruits and punny sentiments.

After printing the images, I chose some patterned papers from a 'vintage' stack I had laying around. To tone down/distress the coloring a bit, I went over the image with a light yellow COPIC markers. Before doing this, the colors were a bit too bright for the shabby feel of the card. To finish off the cards I inked some edges, rounded some corners and did a bit of stitching.

Click HERE to get all of the challenge details - there are prizes to be won!

Just the details… (1) Colored the images using COPIC markers, (2) Stitched and inked around the edges of kraft mat, (3) Added some zig-zag stitches to the sentiment ribbon banner.

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Challenges used for this card:

Whimsie Doodles - Fruits and Veggies

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamps: Whimsie Doodles (Sentiment Edibles); Patterned Paper: My Mind's Eye; Cardstock: Wausau (kraft), Neenah (solar white); Ink: Laser Printer, CTMH (White Daisy); Markers: COPIC; Paper Punch: The Paper Studio (corner rounder); Other: sewing machine, thread

Happy Birthday 2 U - Woodware USA Challenge 33

2011-06-27T08:00:00.046-05:00

Pin ItWith the upcoming 4th of July holiday here in the US, Woodware USA has challenged us to create a card using patriotic colors and/or theme, for their latest challenge (WWUSAC33). Instead of making a card specifically for the 4th, I used Large Small Greetings to create a card that could be used for the birthday of a friend/family member or the USA.

I started by putting together the background and base of the card. I stitched around the dictionary page, and if you look closely in the detail bar below, I stitched a frame around the definition for 'party'. After stamping the word 'birthday' onto wood veneer tape, I adhered the stamped 'happy' to the back of the strip. To finish out the sentiment, I used a die-cut '2' and stamped and matted the 'U' from Large Small Greetings.

Make sure to check out the challenge post HERE to find out how you can play along and be entered to win the monthly prize!

Just the details… (1) Cut the angled notch out of each end of the veneer tape, (2) Layered the "2" & "U" to finish the sentiment, (3) Stitched a frame around the definition for 'party'.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #33 Patriotic Color and/or Theme
Die Cut Dreams - #92 Red, White & Blue
Scrapbookaholic Challenge - #8 Use Red, White & Blue

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Large Small Greetings); Patterned Paper: Jillibean Soup (Red Sugar, Light Blue Sugar); Cardstock: Georgia Pacific (white); Inks: Studio G (red, navy); Paper Punch: The Paper Studio (Corner Rounder); Border Punch: Fiskars (Upper Crest); Other: Dictionary, Thread, Sewing Machine, Veneer Tape

Baby Feet Cards

2011-06-25T08:00:00.046-05:00

Pin It To partially fund my crafting 'habit' I sell cards at my sister's store, Craft & Hobby Connection, in Ottumwa, Iowa. A few weeks ago she asked me to send up some more and wanted me to include some baby cards. Here is a look at what a few of the cards looked like.

To start these cards out, I repeatedly stamped the baby feet onto off-white cardstock then die cut and inked the edges. The sentiments were stamped in brown ink, to coordinate with the patterned paper in the background, matted with an embossed pink (or blue for the boy versions - see below) piece. All layers were adhered with foam squares and I added some gems and glitter on the various versions.

Here's hoping they sell well... Mama needs some more SMASH accessories, and luckily my sister has it in stock. hee hee

Just the details… (1) For the 'Sweet Beginnings' versions I placed half pearls below 'Sweet', (2) On the 'hole in your heart' versions I filled the double hearts with matching glitter, (3) Made baby boy versions using blue.

Challenges used for this card…
The Spotlight Challenge - Sentimental

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Fiskars / Cloud 9 Designs (Simple Thoughts - Baby), Unknown (baby feet); Patterned Paper: Pebbles Inc (New Arrival - Bundle of Joy & Congrats); Cardstock: Neenah (Natural Ice), Bazzill (Strawberry Splash, Loganberry Pie); Inks: Memento (Rich Cocoa), Studio G (light pink, light blue); Glitter: Stickles (Cotton Candy, Baby Blue); Pearls: Kaiser (Champagne); Die Cuts: Spellbinders (Labels 17, Labels 18); Embossing: Cuttlebug (Swiss Dots folder); Corner Rounder: The Paper Studio

Whimsie Doodles and Card Patterns

2011-06-25T07:59:00.001-05:00

Whimsie Doodles is sponsoring the latest challenges at Card Patterns! Make sure to stop by both places to find out how to play along and win a gift certificate to the Whimsie Doodles Online Store! They also have a special, limited time, discount offer.

Birthday Fizz - Woodware USA Challenge 32

2011-06-20T08:00:00.046-05:00

Pin ItFor the latest Woodware USA Challenge (WWUSAC32), Kerry has challenged us to create a card using her sketch (see below). I pulled out Woodware USA's Cocktails stamp set, along with my favorite border punch and got to work.

After I colored and cut out one of the fun cocktail images, I covered it with Diamond Glaze and set it aside to dry (note to self: Next time you want to use that stuff, make sure to get that part ready the night before... or don't use so much). For the card base, I layered some papers from a Die Cuts With a View mat stack, with a patterned paper I had created myself using various accent stamps from the set. (see close up below)

Once the cocktail was dry and read for the card, I adhered it with some foam tape on top of the sentiment banner I had created. If you look closely you can see I added some 'fizz' to the corner, by adding a few drops of Diamond Glaze.

Make sure to check out the challenge post HERE to see all of the other great cards from the design team and find out how you can play along and be entered in our monthly prize drawing!

Just the details… (1) A look at the 'patterned paper' I created with the accent stamps, (2) Used Diamond Glaze on the colored glass for a more realistic-look, (3) Placed a few drops of Diamond Glaze on corner of sentiment flag for some 'fizz'.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #32 Sketch

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Cocktails); Patterned Paper: DCWV (All About Girls stack); Cardstock: Neenah (Solar White, Natural Ice); Unknown (teal); Inks: Studio G (green, blue, pink), Memento (Tuxedo Black); Markers: COPIC; Punches: Fiskars (Upper Crest border); The Paper Studio (corner rounder); Other: JudiKins (Diamond Glaze)

Caramel Apple Thank U - Whimsie Doodles

2011-06-16T16:47:00.000-05:00

Pin It Have you joined in on this week's Whimsie Wednesday Challenge?! Melyssa has challenged our fans/readers to create a project that uses a die. How easy is that?

For my card today, I have used one of Whimsie Doodles' new digital cutting files - Caramel Apple Card Shape. Instead of making the foldover card with the template, I paper pieced just one side of the apple together and placed it front-and-center on the card.

For the die cut requirement of the challenge, I die cut a "U" that was placed on the die-cut sentiment tag. To stamp the "Thank" text on the tag, a stamp from Whimsie Doodles' How Sweet rubber stamp set was masked and stamped in brown. This was then tied onto the caramel apple stick, which was cut from wood-like paper.

I hope you wll join in on the challenge. You can get all of the details HERE on how to play along and be entered to win Whimsie Doodles goodies.

Just the details… (1) Tied the Thank U tag onto the card with some twine and placed three gems for some sparkle, (2) Tore a page out of my Dollar Tree dictionary for the background paper, if you look closely you can see the definition for "teach" is visible, (3) Adhered some ruffled lace around the card front.

Challenges used for this card:

Whimsie Wednesday - Use A Die Cut

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

ETA: Speaking of How Sweet, you can purchase this set for only $7 now!! It is regularly $15.

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Whimsie Doodles (How Sweet); Digital Cutting Template: Whimsie Doodles (Caramel Apple Card Shape); Patterned Paper: Jillibean Soup (Red Sugar, Light Blue Sugar); Cardstock: Georgia Pacific (white), Wausau (kraft); Ink: Ranger (Sepia); Lace: unknown; Twine: The Twinery (Lemondrop); Gems: Crystal Stickers; Die Cuts: Quickutz (Chocolate alpha, Tag); Other: Dollar Tree (Dictionary)

Some New Whimsie Doodles Sponsorships!

2011-06-15T12:00:00.002-05:00

Whimsie Doodles is sponsoring the latest challenges at the 2 Sisters Challenge Blog, Tuesday Throwdown and Cardabilities. Make sure to stop by all three places to find out how to play along and win a gift certificate to the Whimsie Doodles Online Store! They also have a special, limited time, discount offer.

Birthday Candles Card - Woodware USA Challenge #31

2011-06-13T06:00:00.030-05:00

Pin It Monday means a new challenge at the Woodware USA Blog! This week we are challenging our customers and fans to create a birthday card. As soon as I started planning this card in my mind, I knew I wanted to incorporate real birthday candles. After finding these pretty pink ones at Hobby Lobby, I got to work using Woodware USA's Special Wishes stamp set.

I hope you will check out the details of the challenge HERE and play along with us this week. I will be back in about a day with a blog candy that is sponsored by Woodware USA!

Just the details… (1) Stamped the sentiment onto vellum so you could see a bit of the candles and colored paper underneath it, (2) Adhered the candles to the card with some glue lines and tied some teal twine around them for decoration, (3) Used foam dots to adhered the 'frame' for the candles.

Challenges used for this card:
Woodware USA - WWUSAC31 Birthday

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Special Wishes); Patterned Paper: My Mind's Eye (Fine & Dandy - Tickled Pink); Cardstock: Georgia Pacific (white), Unknown (turquoise); Ink: StazOn (Jet Black); Twine: The Twinery (Caribbean); Die Cut: Spellbinders (Labels 2); Embossing: Cuttlebug (Swiss Dots); Special Adhesive: Glue Dots (Glue Lines); Other: Vellum, Birthday Candles

Hoot Hoot Hooray Graduation Card- Whimsie Doodles

2011-06-12T08:00:00.040-05:00

Pin It Back today with another card using one of Whimsie Doodles NEW graduation owl images - Hoot Hooray. Isn't the sentiment just perfect for this celebrating cutie?! For this card I used red and black for the school colors and kept it very clean and simple.

Make sure to check out what the rest of the Doodlelicious Divas have been creating with the NEW June images - all of their blogs are linked to the left.

Just the details… (1) Used a red marker to color in part of the sentiment, (2) Clear embossed graduation caps on the red card base, (3) Added a couple red gems on top of the polka-dot-embossed black mat.

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamps: Whimsie Doodles (Hoot Hooray); Clear Stamp: Hampton Art (Graduation Cap); Inks: Laser Printer, Versamark; Cardstock: The Paper Studio (red), Neenah (Solar White), Unknown (black); Gems: Darice; Die Cut: Spellbinders; Markers: COPIC

Happy 29th Birthday... Again.

2011-06-11T21:37:00.000-05:00

Pin It I have been making some cards to sell at my sister's craft store, Craft & Hobby Connection, in Ottumwa, IA and wanted to use the same look as this CAS 5th Birthday Card. Since I couldn't really do specific ages, and have them be likely to sell, I created cards using 29th, 39th and 49th on the front. The inside of the card has a computer generated "Again.". I know that I have celebrated my 29th birthday a few times now. ;)

Just the details… (1) Used some clear gems for elipses (…) on the front of the card, (2) Used a coordinating strip of patterned paper to decorate the inside.

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Papertrey Ink (Big Birthday Wishes); Computer Font: ITC American Typewriter; Patterned Paper: The Paper Studio (The Classics); Cardstock: Georgia Pacific (white); Ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Gems: Crystal Stickers (Elements 3mm Round - Clear); Die Cut: Papertrey Ink (By The Numbers); Paper Punch: The Paper Studio (Corner Rounder)

Crafting This Weekend?!

2011-06-10T16:48:00.000-05:00

If you are going to be crafting this weekend, I wanted to remind you about the current challenges for companies I design for…

Whimsie Doodles' Fathers Day Challenge

Woodware USA's Masculine Card Challenge

If you made a card for Father's Day you could be entered to win at both sites. :) Hope you will join in on one or both.

Clean and Simple 5th Birthday Card

2011-06-07T02:00:00.000-05:00

Pin ItLast weekend was a busy one at our house. We had a wedding to attend and my daughter was invited to a friend's birthday party. For both events I actually got around to making cards in time; versus when I usually have to buy them at the last minute.

For the friend's birthday party, I used some papers from a new Classics stack I got at Hobby Lobby. It has tons of great prints, in lots of different colors. They are even sized pretty well for cardmaking. The only down side, is the paper is pretty thin. Because of this I cut a piece of white cardstock and pink polka-dotted to the same size and adhered them together.

To start the card I stamped the "Happy", "th" and "Birthday" on the patterned front, using a placeholder "5" to get the correct placement. Once everything was stamped I used removable tape to place the die where I wanted to cut and ran it through my Cuttlebug. I set the cut-out "5" aside and put the front of the card together; using foam adhesive between the layers.

For the inside I used the 'leftover' from the front die-cut and decorated the inside. I rarely do this, but really like how it turned out. A clean & simple card, that was pretty quickly put together.

Just the details… (1) The die cut layer on the front was 'popped up' from the white piece, (2) Added a few gems to the left of 'birthday' for some sparkle, (3) Decorated the inside as well.

Challenges used for this card…

Scrappy Frogs - Birthday

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Papertrey Ink (Big Birthday Wishes); Patterned Paper: The Paper Studio (The Classics); Cardstock: Georgia Pacific (white); Ink: Versafine (Onyx Black); Gems: Crystal Stickers (Elements 3mm Round - Clear); Die Cut: Papertrey Ink (By The Numbers); Paper Punch: The Paper Studio (Corner Rounder)

Some New Whimsie Doodles Sponsorships!

2011-06-07T00:01:00.000-05:00

Whimsie Doodles is sponsoring the latest challenges at the Fantabulous Cricut Challenge Blog and Tuesday Morning Sketches. Make sure to stop by both places to find out how to play along and win a gift certificate to the Whimsie Doodles Online Store! They also have a special, limited time, discount offer.

Head Gardener - Woodware USA Challenge 30

2011-06-06T08:00:00.038-05:00

Pin It Time for another challenge at the Woodware USA blog! Challenge #30 (WWUSAC30) is to create a masculine card. This card was a chance to really stretch my crafting muscles... not only are masculine cards not my forté, but none of the Woodware USA sets I own scream 'manly'. It really made me look at the stamps in a whole new light - very fun.

I chose to work with the Garden Greetings set and to keep the card very clean and simple (CAS). I started off by embossing part of the kraft card base, then matting the stamped (and un-colored) image onto a navy blue cardstock. What started as an 'oops' ended up being a nice addition to the sentiment banner (see picture #3 below).

Make sure to check out the challenge blog post HERE to see what the rest of the design team made, and find out how you can play along and be entered in the monthly drawing!

Just the details… (1) A close-up of the embossed, distressed lines on the card base, (2) Placed three (3) metal studs on the bottom portion of the image mat, (3) After trimming down one of the edges of my sentiment banner, I noticed the end of the cutter had left this indentation... instead of starting over, I just did the same thing on the other end.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #30 Masculine

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Garden Greetings); Cardstock: Wausau (kraft), Georgia Pacific (white), The Paper Studio (red, navy); Ink: Memento (Tuxedo Black); Embellishment: Michaels (metal studs); Embossing Folder: Cuttlebug (Distressed Stripes)

Wood You Be Mine - Whimsie Doodles June Release!!

2011-06-05T06:00:00.015-05:00

Pin It
Did you see all of the fabulous NEW images from Whimsie Doodles for June?! I am loving all of the cute animals and their little sidekick/accessory image. For today's card I have used the NEW Timber the Beaver image, with the coordinating wood pile.

I started by printing off the images, along with a computer-generated sentiment I created myself. To tie into the 'wood theme', I used a wood-looking background stamp on the front of my off-white card base. After layering and placing some border strips and notebook paper onto the card, I stitched on the sentiment and added the images with foam dots.

Be sure to visit all of the Doodlelicious Diva blogs today to see what they have created with the new images-- you won't want to miss all of the Doodlelicious eye candy! And make sure to check out the store so you can see all the new releases!

AnDrEa

aLiCiA *you are here*

Just the details… (1) Used a zig-zag stitch to hold the sentiment on the card, (2) A close up of the wood background and inked border strip, (3) Adhered the layers with foam dots for more dimension, (4) Placed the woodpile at the end of the sentiment with a foam dot as well.

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Timber the Beaver is now available for only $3*! If you like all of the new critters (see photo to left), you can get all 6 (with matching accessory image) for only $15*!
*Make sure to use the discount code above to save 10% off these prices.

This card was featured at...

Paper Issues - June 5, 2011

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamps: Whimsie Doodles (Timber the Beaver); Rubber Stamp: Cornish Heritage Farms (Weathered Wood Backgrounder); Patterned Paper: Making Memories (Ledger); Cardstock: Neenah (Solar White, Natural Ice), Paper Studio (Gold); Inks: Laser Printer, Ranger (Sepia); Markers: COPIC; Border Punch: Fiskars (Upper Crest); Other: Sewing Machine, Brown Thread

Whimsie Doodles June Sneaky Snippet

2011-06-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

It is almost time for a new Whimsie Doodles release - yay! Today I am sharing a little snippet of the card I will be back with tomorrow; on release day.

What could the image be? Make sure to drop by the Whimsie Doodles blog to see even more sneak peeks from the design team.

Don't forget, when you order images from the new (or past) release, use the code below for 10% off your order...

From This Moment On… Wedding Card

2011-06-03T18:00:00.003-05:00

Pin ItTomorrow we are off to a wedding of one of my husband's co-workers. After finding a bag for the wedding gift, I was inspired to create a card with the same look and feel (see detail pictures below). Above is the card I ended up creating.

Since the 'LOVE' on the gift bag was glittered turquoise, I knew I wanted to carry that to my card and incorporate the wedding date, to make it more personal. After die-cutting the date, I ran them face-down through my Xyron, then sprinkled on some turquoise glitter. To help separate the parts of the date (month, day, year), I die-cut some small hearts and did the same thing using silver glitter.

After placing the numbers and hearts across the card, there was no room left beside them for the sentiment I had chosen - "From this moment on…". No fear, I just created a clear front for the card and stamped the sentiment to the right side. The sentiment and date both showed clearly this way.

Just the details… (1) When the card is closed you are able to see the date and sentiment at the same time, (2) Placed the numbers and hearts on the front of the inner card, (3) Glitter, glitter and more glitter - oh and I forgot to mention that I did some embossing and scoring on the white cardstock, (4) A look at the gift bag we purchased, that also became my inspiration for the card.

Challenges used for this card:

C.R.A.F.T. Challenge - #105 Wedding / Love

Hanna and Friends - #96 Blue & White

Moving Along With The Times - #101 No Designer Papers

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Fiskars / Cloud 9 (Simple Thoughts - Weddings); Cardstock: ShortCuts (Clear), Bazzill (Date Swirl, Tropical Breeze); Georgia Pacific (White); Ink: StazOn (Jet Black); Glitter: Martha Stewart (Sterling, Turquoise); Die Cuts: Papertrey Ink (By The Numbers), Spellbinders (Classic Heart); Embossing: Cuttlebug (Swiss Dots); Adhesive: Xyron, ATG, SU! Dimensionals

A New Whimsie Doodles Card AND A Special Offer!

2011-06-01T08:00:00.016-05:00

Pin ItI am back to share another card with you using one of the NEW images from Whimsie Doodles. Today I have created a masculine clear card using Whimsie Doodles' Jeep image and sentiment. I started by printing and coloring two (2) copies of the image, then layering them together for a 3-D effect; only using the hood and bumper portion for the top-most layer.

On the inside of the clear card I created a smaller card, that can hold a personal message, but keep it hidden from the front. For this card I created a 'scene' out of patterned papers and gray cardstock, so it looks like the Jeep is riding down the road.

Make sure to check out what the rest of the Whimsie Doodles design team members are up to. All of their blogs are linked to the left.

Just the details… (1) Used orange glitter over the headlights for a bit of shine, (2) Since I had to cut off the antenna from the image, I created a 'real' one with some beading wire, (3) Layered the image for a 3-D effect, (4) A look at the scenery and sentiment on the inside of the clear card.

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamp: Whimsie Doodles (Jeep); Patterned Paper: DCWV (Flower Shower); Cardstock: ShortCuts (Clear), Neenah (Solar White), Unknown (gray); Ink: Laser Printer; Markers: COPIC; Glitter: Stickles (Orange Peel); Beading Wire: Beadalon; Decorative Scissors: Fiskars (Heartbeat)

Whimsie Doodles and A Spoonfull of Sugar

2011-05-31T08:00:00.020-05:00

Whimsie Doodles is so excited to be sponsoring the new challenge at A Spoonfull of Sugar! Make sure to check out their blog to get all of the details on how you can win a $10 Gift Certificate at the Whimsie Doodles online store. They are also sharing a special discount code to help you save on your next Whimsie Doodles order.

A Garden Grows With Love - Woodware USA Challenge 29

2011-05-30T08:00:00.032-05:00

Pin It For the new Woodware USA Challenge (WWUSAC29), they have asked the design team and participating fans/customers, to create a project with a forgotten embellishment. I don't know about you, but I have lots of goodies that would work here. All too often I purchase something, put it away in a drawer, then forget about it.

For my card I have used Woodware USA's Garden Greetings stamp set and some 'forgotten' Colorbok chipboard. It has been at least 4 years ago that I bought these themed seed packets of chipboard embellishments. So glad I could finally put them to some use.

Make sure to check out the challenge post HERE to see the rest of the design team samples and find out how you can play along and be entered to win the montly prize!

Just the details… (1) After embossing center CS strip, I went over the raised area with a white ink oad, (2) Placed gems below 'love' in the sentiment and in the center of chipboard flower, (3) I used 'forgotten' items from this package for the challenge.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #29 Forgotten Embellishment

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Garden Greetings); Cardstock: Neenah (Solar White), Stampin' Up! (green), Bazzill (pink); Ink: CTMH (White Daisy), Studio G (pink); Embossing: Cuttlebug (Polka Dots); Chipboard Embellishments: Colorbok; Gems: Darice

You Blow Me Away - Whimsie Doodles

2011-05-27T08:00:00.034-05:00

Pin It
Thought I would stop in today and share this clean & simple card I created using the NEW Hair Dryer digital image from Whimsie Doodles. The layout may look a bit familiar as I used it a couple weeks ago for my On Your Special Day card, featuring Fall To Layout 139. I love the simplicity and clean lines of their sketches.

Make sure to check out my Epic Birthday post from earlier in the week to find out how to play along with the new Whimsie Wednesday Challenge. You could win a FREE Whimsie Doodles image!

Just the details… (1) Created the faux-bow with some flowery white grosgrain ribbon.

Challenges used for this card:

Clean & Simple Stamping - FTL 139

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamp: Whimsie Doodles (Hair Dryer); Patterned Paper: Echo Park (Springtime); Cardstock: Neenah (Solar White), Bazzill (blue, pink); Ribbon: Unknown; Markers: COPIC; Other: Corner Rounder

Epic Birthday - Whimsie Wednesday Sketch Challenge

2011-05-25T14:24:00.003-05:00

I meant to post this a bit earlier, but been in the basement most of last night and today with Tornado watches and warnings!! I really dislike this time of the year in 'tornado country'.

Today, on the Whimsie Doodles blog, I am hosting the new Whimsie Wednesday Challenge. I came up with a sketch to challenge our readers and fans. Make sure to get all of the details HERE on how you can play along and be entered to win a FREE Whimsie Doodles image.

For my card I have used the NEW Epic Birthday image and sentiment from Whimsie Doodles. This could make a great card for a young (or young-at-heart) gamer in your life. To color the image I took cues from the paper and cardstocks I chose for the card. Using the sketch for the challenge, it all came together very easily.

Don't forget to check out the challenge details HERE and play along.

Just the details… (1) Adhered the sentiment panel and colored image with foam dots, (2) Stitched across some of the border strip and used an embossing folder on the yellow CS, (3) Added some round gems and a star to the sentiment.

Challenges used for this card:

Whimsie Doodles - Sketch

This card was featured:

Me So Scrappy - Hybrid Gallery Standouts 5/29/11

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamp: Whimsie Doodles (Epic Birthday); Patterned Paper: The Paper Studio (Boy Stars); Cardstock: The Paper Studio (Navy, Gold, Red, Orange), Neenah (Solar White); Markers: COPIC; Ink: Laser Printer; Gems: Darice; Embossing: Cuttlebug (Polka Dots); Border Punch: Fiskars (Upper Crest); Other: Machine Stitching

Stemware Charms - Woodware USA Anything Goes Challenge

2011-05-23T08:00:00.026-05:00

For this weeks' Anything Goes Challenge (WWUSAC28) at the Woodware USA blog, I decided to create a non-card project. As soon as I received Woodware USA's Cocktails stamp set in the mail, I knew I wanted to make Stemware Charms with it. These could make a fun party favor for a Girl's Night In Party, a Bridal Shower, etc.

I started by stamping each of the drink images from the set (see thumbnail at left) onto shrink plastic using StazOn ink. After coloring them in with colored pencils (I tried my COPIC markers, but the image ink ran if I touched it with the marker), I punched a hole above each image, then hand-cut them out; making sure to leave some extra plastic around the punched hole.

Once I had shrunk the plastic using my embossing gun, there was a small hole above the image that I threaded through a jump ring, then placed onto a 1" Round Stemware Hoop. The pencil coloring is pretty light before you shrink the plastic, but becomes much darker as the charm shrinks.

Make sure to check out THIS post to see the rest of the fabulous design team projects and find out how you can play along and be entered to win our monthly prize!

Just the details… (1) Each charm was placed on a jump ring, then onto the stemware hoop, (2) After heating the image / charm shrinks to about 50% of original size, (3) A full shot of the glass and charms.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #28 Anything Goes

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Cocktails); Shrink Plastic: PolyShrink (translucent); Jewelry Findings: The Jewelry Shoppe (Silver Jump Rings, Stemware Hoops); Colored Pencils: Prismacolor; Ink: StazOn (Jet Black)

Keep In Touch - Whimsie Wednesday Challenge

2011-05-17T16:03:00.002-05:00

Pin It
For the latest Whimsie Wednesday Challenge, Tobi, challenged our readers and fans to create a project with no colouring. I used Whimsie Doodles' NEW Telephone digital image to create this clean and simple card.

To add some color to the image, without using the 'banned' markers/pencils, I used some burgandy DMC floss. This color tied in the patterned paper and worked great for the heart, phone cord and to sew on the polka dotted banner. The center strip was embossed with a textile folder and the image was adhered to the card with foam tape.

There is still a few hours to play along and be entered to win a FREE Whimsie Doodles image. Check out the details HERE.

Just the details… (1) Filled the center of the heart with stitching and followed the phone cord with a running stitch, (2) Used a light tan ink to bring out the embossing on the ivory cardstock strip, (3) stitched the banner strip under 'touch' to bring that word out a bit more.

Challenges used for this card:

Whimsie Doodles - No Colouring

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamps:Whimsie Doodles (Telephone); Patterned Paper: My Mind's Eye (Stella & Rose - Mabel); Cardstock: Neenah (Solar White, Ivory), Wausau (Kraft); Ink: Laser Printer, Memento (Desert Sand); Floss: DMC (221); Die Cut: Spellbinders (Labels 11); Embossing: Cuttlebug (Textile)

Whimsie Doodles and Creative Card Crew

2011-05-17T12:00:00.000-05:00

Whimsie Doodles is so excited to be sponsoring the new challenge at the Creative Card Crew Blog! Make sure to check out their blog to get all of the details on how you can win a $10 Gift Certificate at the Whimsie Doodles online store. They are also sharing a special discount code to help you save on your next Whimsie Doodles order.

Flutter By Butterfly - Woodware USA Challenge #27

2011-05-16T08:00:00.054-05:00

Pin It

Fort this week's challenge on the Woodware USA blog (WWUSAC27) we are asking our fans and readers to share a project based upon the sketch to the left. For my card I have used Woodware USA's Garden Greetings stamp set.

I started by cutting out five (5) patterned paper pennants and five (5) kraft scalloped pennants. I used the little butterfly from Garden Greetings and stamped it at various locations on the pink paper. After stamping and cutting out five (5) butterflies on a floral paper, they each were adhered to a pennant.

After stringing the pennants on some Honeydew twine from The Twinery, I adhered them with foam dots across the card. To finish the card I stamped 'flutter by butterfly…' repeatedly across the bottom of the card.

Make sure to stop by the challenge post to see the rest of the design team cards and get the details how you can play along and be entered to win Woodware USA's monthly prize!

Just the details… (1)The butterflies and pennants were adhered with foam tape to the card, (2) Pierced whole in top two corners of pennant so I could string them on the twine, (3) Used brown ink to stamp the sentiment across the card front.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #27 Sketch

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Rubber Stamps: Woodware USA (Garden Greetings); Patterned Paper: My Mind's Eye (Fine and Dandy); Cardstock: Wausau (kraft); Inks: Memento (Tuxedo Black), Ranger (Sepia); Die Cuts: Spellbinders (Nested Pennants, Nested Lacey Pennants); Twine: The Twinery (Honeydew)

Whimsie Doodles & Dutch Dare Card Challenges

2011-05-14T13:02:00.001-05:00

Whimsie Doodles is so excited to be sponsoring the new challenge at the Dutch Dare Card Challenges Blog! Make sure to check out their blog to get all of the details on how you can win a $10 Gift Certificate at the Whimsie Doodles online store. They are also sharing a special discount code to help you save on your next Whimsie Doodles order.

Whimsie Doodles Sale - All Digital Stamps 50% Off!

2011-05-13T00:01:00.001-05:00

Don't forget about the awesome sale at Whimsie Doodles that starts today…

We're having a 50% off sale and it starts Friday May 13!

It will last through Sunday May 15 at midnight eastern time.

You MUST use the code MAY24

to take advantage of this fantastic deal!!

It applies to ALL digital stamps, but ONLY digital stamps.

Whimsie Doodles rubber stamps will not be available during the sale.

Click HERE to go straight to the Whimsie Doodles store and start making your wish list!

Tell Your Friends! Tell Your Neighbors! Shoot, tell your Mother-In-Law, for that matter!

This is too big of a deal not to share with everyone :)

Upcoming DIGITAL Stamp Sale at Whimsie Doodles

2011-05-10T00:01:00.004-05:00

We're having a 50% off sale and it starts Friday May 13!

It will last through Sunday May 15 at midnight eastern time.

You MUST use the code MAY24

to take advantage of this fantastic deal!!

It applies to ALL digital stamps, but ONLY digital stamps.

Whimsie Doodles rubber stamps will not be available during the sale.

Click HERE to go straight to the Whimsie Doodles store and start making your wish list!

Tell Your Friends! Tell Your Neighbors! Shoot, tell your Mother-In-Law, for that matter!

This is too big of a deal not to share with everyone :)

Also, don't forget about the OUTRAGEOUS SALE on select RUBBER STAMP SETS that I posted about HERE yesterday!!

And the goodies keep on coming…

Melyssa has posted a video tutorial and FREE digital image HERE on the Whimsie Doodles blog.

This Just In - Rubber Stamp Sale at Whimsie Doodles - up to 60% OFF!!

2011-05-09T14:30:00.001-05:00

ETA: Make sure to scroll down to see today's Woodware USA Challenge post.

This just in… Melyssa of Whimsie Doodles has a special SALE Page at the online store, where you can get lots of adorable rubber stamps and sets up to 60% off!! The sale runs now through Thursday, so hurry on over.

Here are some of the sets on sale and cards I have made in the past using them…

Koale's Chicks - ~~$7.00~~ Now Only $3.00

Chicks Dig Me Original Post

Leah Bunny - ~~$7.00~~ Now Only $3.00

Some Bunny Loves You Original Post

Easter Basket - ~~$7.00~~ Now Only $3.00

Sp-Egg-Tacular Day Paperweight Original Post

Sp-Egg-Tacular Day Card Original Post

The above are also available in a collection...

Easter Collection - ~~$23.00~~ Now Only $9.00

How Sweet Stamp Set - ~~$15.00~~ Now Only $7.00

Thanks A Bunch Card Original Post

Party Clear Card Original Post

Melyssa's Birthday Card Original Post

Stitch'ems - ~~$15.00~~ Now Only $10.00

Something to Roar About Card Original Post

Shell We Chat Card Original Post

Party Monkey - ~~$7.00~~ Now Only $2.00

HB2U Card Original Post

Li'l Cupid Rubber Stamp Set - ~~$15.00~~ Now Only $7.00

Belated Valentine Original Post

I Love You Clear Card Original Post

XOXO Clear Window Card Original Post

These are going quickly, so make sure to check out Whimsie Doodles' Sale Page ASAP for the above sets and more!!

On Your Special Day - Woodware USA Challenge 26

2011-05-09T12:00:00.019-05:00

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Need to make a card for an upcoming Wedding or Annversary? This week's challenge at Woodware USA (WWUSAC26) is the perfect chance for you to get it done, and be entered for the MONTHLY PRIZE giveaway. Woodware USA Challenge #26 is to create a Wedding or Anniversary card.

Since I didn't have any specific wedding sets from Woodware USA, it allowed me to look at my current sets in a new light. I started by stamping one of the little decorative stamps from Special Wishes repeatedly across the bottom portion of my white cardstock piece. The light pink ink matched the pink cardstock mat behind it.

For the sentiment, I used 'On Your Special Day' from Woodware USA's Elegant Cameos set. This sentiment is suitable for lots of different occasions and perfect for this wedding card. For some final touches I embossed the bottom of the turquoise card base, added a metal heart I painted white and added a faux-bow onto my ribbon strip. The layout on this card was inspired by the latest sketch at Clean & Simple Stamping - Fall to Layout 139.

To see all of the beautiful design team samples, and to find out how you can play along and enter to win the MONTHLY PRIZE, click HERE.

Just the details… (1) Stamped the sentiment in pink, next to the painted metal heart, (2) Rounded the edges of the white and pink layers and used dimensional foam to adhere to card, (3) Placed the ribbon strip through the metal heart and adhered the faux-bow to the top.

Challenges used for this card:

Woodware USA - #26 Wedding or Anniversary Card

Clean & Simple Stamping - FTL 139

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Woodware USA (Elegant Cameos & Special Wishes); Cardstock: Georgia Pacific (White), Bazzill (Pink, Turquoise); Ink: Studio G (pink); Embellishment: Making Memories (Metal Heart); Embossing: Cuttlebug (Textile folder); Other: White Paint, Corner Rounder, Mini Glue Dots

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T00:01:00.001-05:00

Happy Mother's Day!! Hopefully when this post goes live, I am still snug asleep in my bed. If I would like anything for Mother's Day, it would be some more sleep. What are you hoping for today? The card I am sharing today is what I sent to my mom.

I got out some of my favorite items to use - Papertrey Ink stamps, My Mind's Eye papers, Fiskars' Upper Crest border punch and my Ranger Sepia ink pad (I LOVE that thing). Amazingly the card went together in about 20 minutes; which for me is quickly. I love the results and I know my mom will appreciate it even more, since it is handmade.

Just the details… (1) Placed a couple foam dots on the back of the sentiment block, to give it some extra dimension, (2) Placed a light blue brad in the center of stamped flower, (3) Machine-stitched the sentiment to the back of the punched strip, (4) Inked the edges of each piece for more definition.

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Stamps: Papertrey Ink (Women of Life); Patterned Paper: My Mind's Eye (Stella & Rose - Mabel); Cardstock: Wausau (Kraft), Neenah (Ivory); Ink: Ranger (Sepia), StudioG (gold); Border Punch: Fiskars (Upper Crest); Punch: Paper Studio (Corner Rounder); Other: Paper Doily, Machine Stitching

Teacher Note Cards - Printable FREEBIE

2011-05-07T00:01:00.006-05:00

As I mentioned on yesterday's post, I am back with a printable FREEBIE that will help you to create notecards for a special teacher in your life! If you would like yours personalized (ie: my samples yesterday read 'from the desk of Ms. Teacher', see below for a low-cost option for personalization.

To download your FREE copy for Personal Use, just click HERE.

If prompted for a password, enter: crafty (all lowercase)

Printing Tip

Cutting Instructions

Assembly Tips

The horizontal lines will wrap around to the back of the card when folded. This is to make sure the lines bleed off the left edge of the card front.

After folding you can round the corners if you choose. When making mine, I rounded only the 2 right corners, leaving the folded edge alone.

Low-Cost Personalization Option

For only $2.00*, I will create and send you a personalized PDF file.

*Sales tax will be added to orders placed by customers in Kansas.

Like my samples yesterday, these cards will read:

from the desk of

Ms. TeacherName*

Order Process
**ETA: You can now place your order at my etsy store as well.

Enter the EXACT TEXT you want placed on the 2nd line of card in the "Your Personalized Text here" box below. (If this step is skipped, the standard turnaround time for proof may not be met.)
Click on Buy Now to place your order via PayPal.
Within 48 hours, a proof of your card, will be sent to the email address used by PayPal for your approval. ETA: I will be away from my computer from May 29 through June 3rd. If you place a personalization order during this time, I will process it when I return.
Necessary changes are made and your finalized, print-ready, PDF will appear in your email inbox. Easy peasy.

EXCITING Update!!

I am now selling these personalized cards FINISHED FOR YOU on etsy. If you like the look of the cards, and love the personalization, but don't want to put them together yourself, click HERE.

Personalized Teacher Note Cards - Printable FREEBIE Coming Soon

2011-05-06T01:15:00.004-05:00

EXCITING UPDATE!! I am now selling sets of these cards, FINISHED FOR YOU, on etsy! If you like the look of these cards, but don't like the work you have to put into them, you can purchase them HERE at my etsy shop!

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, I wanted to make my daughter's preschool teachers (and director) a little gift. One of the many pages I bookmarked for future reference in my copy of 350 Cards & Gifts, was the "Teacher Gift Card Set" on page 10. I just loved the way the cards resembled notebook paper; 3-hole punched and all. I did vary mine a bit by not a single, large, paper-pieced apple, but instead creating my own layered embellishment.

I started by created the lined notebook paper and text in InDesign. After taking it to be printed at my local copy shop, I came home and cut them all down to size, so all edges bled. Next came cutting and punching everything out for the 40 focal points. I used my Fiskars An Apple A Day punch on patterned red paper, brown cardstock and green cardstock. Thank goodness for my Xyron because adhering all of these pieces together with only my ATG would have been a bear! (see picture above for proof)

While I was watching the top five compete on Idol (Go Haley Reinhart & Scotty McCreery), I assembled the three personalized sets.

Here is a close up shot of one of the cards. For each set I made five (5) polka dotted apples and five (5) grid apples. Kinda mixed it up a bit and allowed me to use both sides of my Jillibean Soup Red Sugar patterned paper.

Just the details… (1) After printing, cutting and folding, I used my Crop-A-Dile to 3-hole punch each card, (2) Scallop-punched cork paper and placed a texturized ivory circle on top of it, (3) Rounded the right-hand corners of each card to make it look even more like notebook paper.

After placing each set of ten (10) cards in a clear card box, I altered an RSVP pen to match the sets. It took me a bit to figure out the perfect cutting dimensions, but eventually I could slip the paper in the barrel and have it look decent.

I used some mini glue dots to help hold the pen to the side of the box, then tied some sheer, red ribbon around it all. Before giving them to each of the teachers I tucked a note from my daughter and a gift card to Peach Wave behind the knot.

Would you like help making a set of these cards for a special teacher in your life? Make sure to check back tomorrow for my FREE "Just A Note" Printable. (printable is up now, click HERE) For those of you who would like it personalized with a teacher's name, I will have a low-cost personalization option as well.

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

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Patterned Paper: Jillibean Soup (Red Sugar); Cork Paper: Unknown, Cardstock: Neenah (Ivory); Impression Plate: Papertrey Ink (Book Print); Punches: Fiskars (An Apple A Day), Paper Shapers (1.75" Circle), Stampin' Up! (Scalloped Circle), Paper Studio (Corner Rounder), We R Memory Keepers (Crop-A-Dile); Cardstock: FedEx Office (White Cover); Greeting Card Box: Clear Envelopes (Crystal Clear A2 - 12 sets); Adhesive: Xyron, Glue Dots (mini); Pens: RSVP; Software: Adobe (InDesign); Font: ITC American Typewriter; Ribbon: Unknown (Sheer Red)

YoYo What's Up?! Whimsie Doodles May Release

2011-05-05T00:01:00.031-05:00

Today is New Release Day at Whimsie Doodles! Did you guess correctly after seeing my sneak peek yesterday? This month is chock full of punny image and sentiment combos, as well as a female version of our littlest scientist. For my card today I have used the new YoYo digital image.

I wanted to keep the card fun, bright and clean. I used some scraps of paper to create the background, then took cues from the papers to color the image. After hand-cutting the image, leaving the sentiment with lots of white around it, I adhered it to the yellow polka-dotted, which had two of its corners rounded.

Make sure to check out the full release post HERE on the Whimsie Doodles blog. You can see all of the new images and the wonderful samples from the design team.

Just the details… (1) Covered heart with red glitter for some sparkle, (2) Placed image onto mat with 3D foam and hand-cut the sentiment to look like a sentiment banner, (3) Used some colorful scraps to create the background.

Challenges used for this card…

Divas by Design - #1 Anything Goes

Papertake Weekly - Anything Goes

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Stamp: Whimsie Doodles (YoYo); Patterned Paper: Jillibean Soup (Yellow, Red & Orange Sugar); Cardstock: Neenah (Solar White); Ink: Laser Printer; Markers: COPIC; Glitter: Martha Stewart (Garnet); Other: Corner Rounder

School House Shaped Card - Whimsie Doodles and Echo Park Hybrid

2011-05-04T11:43:00.002-05:00

Since it is Teacher Appreciation week, I thought I would share a card today that uses one of Whimsie Doodles' adorable school-related digital cutting files (see them all HERE). You could make a cute notecard set with these, have your child write a special note on one, or use them to hold a gift card.

I used the School House Card Shape JPG file and digitally paper-pieced the card. The papers I used are from Echo Park's Walk In The Park hybrid paper pack. Once I had it ready to go on screen, I removed the layer with the black lines and printed it onto an 8.5x11 cardstock. All that was left to do was cut out and assemble. Easy peasy!

For more school themed projects, you can check out THESE past posts of mine. Make sure to visit the Keep Calm and Teach On post for a wonderful offer from Whimsie Doodles!

Even if you miss getting something out to a special teacher this week, end-of-the-year-gift time is fast approaching.

And now a SPECIAL OFFER for fans and readers of my blog: Use the coupon code below (ALICIA10), the next time you shop at the Whimsie Doodles Online Store and receive 10% OFF your order!

Thanks for stopping by and, as always, comments are greatly appreciated!

Digital Cutting Template: Whimsie Doodles (School House Card Shape); Digital Paper: Echo Park Hybrids (Walk In The Park); Software: Adobe (Photoshop CS5); Other: Laser Printer

May Sneaky Snippet - Whimsie Doodles

2011-05-04T07:55:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is New Release Day at Whimsie Doodles, so that means today I get to share a little peek with you...

Make sure to check out the full preview post HERE on the Whimsie Doodles blog, and I will see you back here tomorrow with the full card.