Walkin' in a Christmas Candyland

Hello!
I'm so excited today!  Several months back I applied to be a DT member for the Pile It On Challenge Blog.  Unfortunately I did not make the cut...but was invited to play along as a Guest Designer during the month of December.  And guess what...today's the day!  The twist at Pile it On Challenge Blog is to enter as many challenges as you can with a given creation!  Easier said than done sometimes!

Now the challenge this week over at Pile it On is "P is for..."
And the fabulous sponsor is non other that Jellypark, who have graciously offered one prize winner 2 digis of their choice!
I had the pleasure of playing with their digi stamp entitled "Princess for a Day".  Awesome....that was one "P" for the challenge!  LOL

Let's take a peek at what I did with this cute little princess...


Now, let me run through all of the "P is for" elements in this creation...princess, pearls, patterned paper, palace, and pink!

I wanted to create a different kind of Christmas card with this cute little princess...and I hope you feel I've accomplished it!  I do believe this is one of the craziest cards I've ever created...so many different elements going on, glitter, bling, ribbon, washi tape, hand coloring...but my 10 year old daughter absolutely loved it...so I know I captured what I was going for!

Every princess needs a castle or palace...but on a Christmas card, that princess needs a candy/sweet treats winter wonderland kinda palace!  I found this cute little image at Digi Web Studios and decided it was perfect for my little royal lady!  I colored the images with my Spectrum Noir markers .  I started the card with a snowflake patterned paper background.  I added candy and candy cane washi tape on both the top and the bottom of the card base.  I popped up the candy palace with 3D pop up dots and did the same with the princess image.  I cut out some snowflake die cuts with my BigShot and added Glitter Ritz to them along with a sparkling gem to each centre.  I printed out the perfect sentiment which reads "Hoping Your holidays are the Sweetest Ever" which I had purchased from Whimsie Doodles.  Then I went to town on the rest of the card with various colors of Stickles, Glitter Ritz and some gems for the bows on the palace and some pearls for the little princess' dress.  Lastly came the finishing touch of the bow.  I think the card came out extremely busy...but in a "sweet" sorta way!  LOL

I hope I've been able to inspire you to create a project with the letter P in mind and to link up with Pile it On!  It's been a ton of fun trying to enter as many challenges as I could with one card...not something I usually take too much time to do!  
I would also like to take the time to thank the design team members of Pile it On for having me!  I have have so much fun creating for this challenge! 

Until next time...

This card has been entered in the following challenges...

Posted by at 35 comments

Vintage Beauty

Glad you stopped by to take in Post #2 for the day!  Should you be looking for my Twist of Faith post, please scroll down!

Welcome back to another week of {Pin}spirational Challenges!  And guess what...no Christmas photo to {pin}spire you...LOL!  I must say it was a little tricky trying to get back into a card that wasn't Christmas themed!  LOL

Here is a peek at the {pin}spiring photo we have for you ...



Is that not totally awesome!
I was completely drawn to the different colors in this photo.  I do see the sewing and ribbon theme here, but I wanted to take it in a slightly different direction!

We have two wonderful sponsors this week...



I had the pleasure of working with an image from one of their Vintage photo sheets.
And of course our other sponsor...




You can find all the prize details over at {Pin}spirational Challenges blog!

Now back to the photo.  When I saw the group of children standing with their hula hoops dressed in their fine clothing, I knew I wanted to use this image.  I pulled several colors from the photo that stood out to me and then proceeded to color the kids clothing with my Stamp 'n Up chalks.  I knew I wanted to give the card a kind of "material or quilt" feel, so I cut some squares and applied them to the background.  I didn't have time to haul out the sewing machine, so I did some faux stitching with my fine line pen.  I added a flower cluster along with some vintage type buttons and lastly an embellishment with the message "Don't sweat the small stuff". 

Here's how it turned out...


I hope I've been able to inspire you to play along with us this week.  I'm always so intrigued by the different creations and the different things people pull from the photo to create their project.  Maybe you need a break from Christmas card making, or maybe you see something in the photo that reminds you of Christmas. Either way, be sure to link up with us...and if you're still needing more visual aids to get your creativity flowing, don't forget to check out my team members creations! 

Until next time...
Posted by at 3 comments

Christmas Traditions

Seems like quite awhile since we've had time to visit together! 
 I'm glad you were able to pop by today. 
 We are definitely nearing Christmas...and you can sure tell by the busy schedule we all seem to be keeping.  There are Christmas concerts, Christmas dinners/parties with friends, and then there's the shopping, gift wrapping, Christmas baking...and of course some last minute card making!  LOL

This week over at Twist of Faith, we are thinking about Christmas Traditions.  I have to say that my favorite tradition that we have as a family is attending our church's Christmas Eve service.  For me...that is the most magical night of the year.  It sets the focus on the reason for the season as we put our attention on our Lord and Saviour!  There's something so special about that candlelight service and the songs, and sharing that takes place.  It reminds us all of the gift we are really celebrating!  

That being said, I did not choose to create a card around that tradition.  Instead, I chose to create a card around "going home" for Christmas.  I am lucky, my parents live in the same area we do.  I get to see them on a regular basis...but there's still something special about going home for Christmas.  Going home brings back memories of Christmas morning when I was a kid...my brother and I waking mom and dad up by reading the Christmas story to them at the door of their bedroom...but not before 7:00am!  LOL  Unwrapping the gifts under the tree, rummaging through the stockings, and then heading over to Grandma and Grandpas house where you were greeted by the smell of the most delicious meal.  It's funny how going home brings back all those memories.  Those memories bring back happy times, but are also a little bit melancholy as things are different...Grandmas and Grandpas have passed away, aunts and uncles as well...but I can't imagine what Christmas in Heaven must be like for them!

Well...when I spotted the image "Sarah's Christmas" in the Robyn's Fetish store, I knew that I wanted to create with it!  Robyn's Fetish is our sponsor for the week and they have graciously agreed to provide one lucky winner with 5 digital stamps of their choice!  Splendid!


Here's a look at my holiday card...


  This young girl just reminded me of someone on her way home to family and friends with her packages and wreath.  I've colored up the digi with my Stamp 'n Up chalks.  I wanted to give the card an aged and vintage feel, so I've again inked everything around the edges with a brown ink.  I've added some laser cut snowflakes which I've spread some Diamond Stickles on to give them some shimmer.  I've also used some Christmas die cuts that I purchased and was hoarding in my craft room!  The finishing touch was to add some Ric rack type ribbon and a bow with a button....I was hoping this would give the card that little bit of coziness that would make it feel like home.  I loved the die cut sentiment "At Christmas, all roads lead home"!  And isn't that so true in the spiritual realm as well...Christmas should get us thinking about our Heavenly Father...the sacrifice He chose to make for us...and even that Heavenly home that awaits for us when our time will come to leave this world.

And now, I can hardly wait to read about some of the Christmas traditions you have...and to see where your creativity with them will lead in your card making!  Be sure to link up with us at Twist of Faith this week...and don't forget to check out the other DT creations and their Christmas traditions. 

Until next time...

This card has been entered in the following challenges...
Crafty Sentiments Designs..."Christmas" 
Scrap Creations..."Holidays"
LEJ Designs..."Festive Fun"
Loves Rubberstamps Challenge Blog..."Anything Goes Christmas"
Songbird Challenge Blog..."Merry Christmas Everybody"
Sweet Stamps..."Simple Christmas"
Tuesday Throwdown..."What Christmas Means to You"
Use it Tuesday..."Winter/Holidays" (used Christmas die cuts from my hoarding stash)
The Cheerful Stamp Pad..."Signs of Christmas"
C is for Challenge..."Traditional Christmas"
Craftin Desert Diva's..."Christmas"
Craft Your Passion..."Let it Snow"
Crafty Boots Challenges..."Christmas"
Get Inky..."Christmas"
My Craft Creations..."Anything Goes"
Parade Your Crafts..."Christmas Projects"
Scrapping Everyday Miracles..."Christmas"
Without Words..."Nearest and Dearest"
Chalk Ah Lot Cafe..."Chalk Christmas"
Robyn's Fetish..."Must have a Bow"
That Craft Place..."Christmas"
Crafty Hazelnut's Christmas..."For Someone Special"
Card Crafters Circle..."Celebrations"
Card Makin Mamas..."Merry Christmas"
Creative Corner Challenges..."Traditional Christmas"
Delicious Doodles..."Christmas/New Years"
Digi Haven..."Merry Christmas"
Digitally Sweet Challenges..."Vintage Christmas"
C.R.A.F.T. Challenge Blog..."Christmas"


Update:  This card has placed in the following challenges...

Chalk Ah Lot Cafe


Powdered chalks by Stamp N Plus
Posted by at 38 comments

Baubles and Bells

Good Morning! 
 I'm back today...much later than usual.  It's just been that kind of week!  Life took over and card making was secondary.  I was quite happy to get down to my craft area this morning though as soon as everyone headed out the door!  LOL

My project this morning is for our current challenge over at Twist of Faith Card Challenges.  This week we decided to do a Christmas theme...and that is "Baubles and Bells"!  

Our sponsor this week is...

 

and they will be awarding one lucky random prize winner 5 digis of their choice.

I had the chance to work with the digi entitled "Christmas Bells and Garland".  I colored it with my Tim Holtz Distress Markers and that was as far as I got until this morning!  Last night as I was browsing in the Silhouette Online Store (they have an awesome sale going on right now), I found a gift card holder card in the shape of a Christmas ornament, and I knew exactly what I wanted to create.

Take a look...


It's a bauble gift card holder card with the digi image of bells as the ornament decoration.  I added some sparkles to the top of the ornament along with a bow.  I cut the sentiment with my Silhouette Cameo as well...layered it and added some Stickles.  Lastly I strung some gold ribbon through it and hung it on my tree to take the photo!  Just a quick and easy little card.

 Doesn't that just feel like Christmas is around the corner?  Makes me want to break out in song singing "C'mon Ring Those Bells...Light the Christmas Tree...Jesus is the King.. Born for You and Me".  After all, isn't that the real reason for the season?  The lights, the baubles, the bells are all beautiful...but don't let them take over your Christmas this year!  Remember to set aside time to focus on the real reason of this joyous time...a Savior came down to earth...He is a gift to all of us!  If you have not received this precious gift, and do not have the Lord in your life please know that this gift is available today!  He is waiting for you with open arms and wants to have a relationship with you!

Make sure you take the time to check out the other DT creations over at Twist of Faith!  Then create your own take on the challenge...just remember that the card must include a scripture, encouraging, healing, or positive sentiment either inside or out...your choice! We can't wait to see what you come up with!

Until next time...

Posted by at 1 comment

{Pin}spired Creation

...And here's the second post of the day!  

Here's a card I created for our latest challenge over at {Pin}spirational Challenges.  As you know, our challenges are based on a {pin}spiring photo from Pinterest!  It's just so much fun to see how we all interpret the photo differently...some use color, others texture, others just the theme.  

For fun today...let's present the creation first and then you can take a look at the photo that inspired it!

Here's the card I created...


...and a closer look at the Eureka image I had the pleasure of working with. 


This was my first attempt at coloring with my new Spectrum Noir markers...and I have to say I was quite happy with the outcome.  The pumpkins look like they have some depth to them, and the fence looks like it is aged.  The pics don't do the coloring justice...but for a first attempt I'm happy and look forward to improving.  

And now...here's the photo I took my {pin}spiration from...

 

Doesn't it just have the most awesome colors to choose from?  I love the little bird house.  When I saw that I decided to add two bird die cuts and make them look like they were sitting on the fence.   I have to admit that I did have a little trouble getting into the spirit of making this card...in Canada our Thanksgiving was over a month ago...and I had Christmas carols playing as I was working on this project!  Brain overload!  LOL
However, I do wish all of our American friends a wonderful Thanksgiving!  

Please be sure to stop by the {Pin}spirational Challenge Blog this week to see what the other DT members have created.  We also have 2 awesome sponsors this week who are offering two lucky prize winners some awesome goodies...

Anne's Cards For U


and

 Eureka Stamps


Now it's up to you!  Take another look at that gorgeous pic, and create something with what stands out to you!  We can't wait to see your interpretation!

Until next time...
Posted by at 2 comments

Three Color Combo Challenge

Happy Wednesday Everyone!
Christmas is one month away...are you ready?  I think I'm pretty close...just need to do a little shopping with the kids for their dad!  First stop will be the ice fishing section at our local hardware store!  LOL  The kids are just waiting to skate on the dugout, do some ice fishing and make some snowmen!  Maybe this will be the year they'll enjoy playing outside in the snow!

Speaking of playing in the snow and snowmen, I had fun playing with the current sponsor image I got to choose from StampArt Design by Kathryne..."Flakey Friends", which you can find here.



 Our current challenge over at Twist of Faith is to create a card using only three colors, and our awesome sponsor will be awarding one lucky winner 4 digis of their choice!  How spectacular is that?  And of course, don't forget our twist of adding an encouraging, uplifting, healing sentiment or scripture verse.  (I think I fell a little short on our twist this week...unless you're someone who is glad I would try to encourage snow!  LOL)

I must admit, I have never attempted to consciously only use 3 colors on a project!  I have come to the conclusion that ....this is hard...at least for me it was!  I decided my main colors would be red, blue and white.  I did land up with hints of green, brown and orange as well.  I just couldn't leave the the snowman's arms and nose uncolored!  LOL

Here's a look at how my attempt turned out...


...and a closer look at the cute snowman and his snowflake buddy!


All of the paper, letters and fussy cut animals have been cut from a paperpack that the kids gave me many years ago for Christmas...I'm trying to make use of it because it has been ignored for many years.  The snowflake die is a die I purchased from Whimsy Stamps.  To give the card some sparkle, I have added some Glitter Ritz to the swirling snowflakes, and the snow in the trees.  I have popped up several birds, and the bunnies as well as the lettering so the card has some dimension to it.  I feel okay with how the card came out considering how difficult I found this challenge. 

I hope that you will challenge yourself this week to deliberately create a card with just three colors, and then link up with us over at Twist of Faith!  If you're needing more ideas, be sure to visit the other DT creations because they each have their own creative take on the challenge.  Each card is like a snowflake...no two are alike...but beautiful in their own way!  And isn't that just how God has created all of us...no two people are alike...we are all special in our own way and God loves us just as we are.

Thanks for the visit!
(Should you be interested in my {Pin}spirational Challenge post, please scroll up!)

Until next time...
Posted by at 2 comments

Birthday Party Invitation

I'm back today with just a quick little post!  I've been busy getting our sons Birthday Party Invitations ready and he was happy as can be to take them to school today to hand out!  Since his birthday is mid December, we usually have the party a little earlier as most people are in full Christmas mode at that time.  This year we are headed to our local movie theatre to see the new Disney movie "Frozen" which is playing on the weekend. 
I knew that I had to create something around the movie/popcorn theme as our soon to be 8 year old son cannot watch a movie at the theatre or at home without popcorn.  As he says..."it is a must".  LOL 
 I started searching through some of the cutting file stores and came up with a neat set by Kadoodle Bug Designs...you can find it here...and then found some neat print and cut files in the Silhouette store.  I threw them together, and came up with this...  


I started piecing all of the parts together and for the finishing touch added some Champagne Stickles on the Movie Night title.  The picture doesn't do it justice...it actually looks like a lit up movie sign!  I have to admit that just that little extra sparkle took the invite to a whole new level!  I then mounted the entire invitation on a white piece of card stock and fussy cut around it so I was able to stamp the invitation details on the back without any of the messy mechanics showing. 
My son was super impressed with the finished product!  But hey, it doesn't always take much to impress and almost 8 year.  Now I just need to figure out how to make the snowman cupcakes...Pinterest here I come!
Until next time...
This card has been entered in the following challenges...
Update:  This card has placed in the following challenges...


Posted by at 6 comments

A Thankful Heart

Hi Everyone!
Happy Tuesday!  I'd like to share with you a creation today that I've created for our current challenge over at Twist of Faith Challenges.  Today we are asking you to create a card that has been inspired by the phrase "With Thanks".  This will be super easy for our American friends, as their Thanksgiving is just around the corner.  Here in Canada, we celebrated our Thanksgiving quite awhile ago, so I decided I wanted to make more of a fall inspired card encouraging "thanks".  We have so much to be thankful for, don't we.  I think we take so much for granted and quite frankly forget to be thankful most of the time.  I know I've mentioned this before, but one of my favorite hymns is "Count Your Many Blessings".  Do you know it?

The lyrics are powerful...

When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.


Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.


Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.



When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings. Wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.



So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be disheartened, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

The sentiment I chose for my card really seemed to sum this up nicely...

A Grateful Heart
is the mainspring of Happiness

Isn't that so true. God has never once promised us any easy road.  What He has promised us is that He will be with us on that road while we travel through the flatlands, the mountains, and deep in the valleys. Finding the joy and blessings along the way, in all circumstances leads us to contentment where we are and helps us keep our focus on the things that are important.  I don't find this easy to do.  When the road is smooth and winding and the journey is scenic, I can find the positive. I can see the blessings and have a grateful heart...counting my blessings! But, when I hit the valleys and the sun hides it's face and it's days of cloudiness...I must admit I find it hard to focus on the positives.  The whole world seems dreary and my circumstances too much during that time.  This is the most important time to focus on giving thanks...it takes ones mind off of the troubles and takes their power from them.  After all, God is there guiding and leading us!

Now onto the card I've created...


I had the privilege of working with our sponsored image called "Oak Leaf Wreath" by Eureka Stamps!

 

They have generously offered one lucky winner 5 digi images of their choice! 

As for my card, not too much to tell you today.  I decided to try to do a flat card with the image right on the front of it with no embellishments.  I colored the image with my Tim Holtz Distress Markers.  I inked the edges of the card with brown ink.  

I hope that you will take the time to find something to be thankful in your life today.  I also hope that I've inspired you to join in our challenge at Twist of Faith this week!  Don't forget  to stop by the blog and see the lovely cards the rest of the design team have made!  And one quick reminder...your creation needs to include a scripture, verse, encouraging or uplifting sentiment! 

Until next time...

This card has been entered in the following challenges...
Eureka Stamps Challenge Blog..."Thanksgiving"
City Crafter Challenge Blog..."Decorate it/Wreath"
Card Mania Challenges..."Autumn Colors"
Parade Your Crafts..."Grateful"
Victorine Stamps..."CAS Fall Theme"
Whoopsi Daisy..."Give Thanks" 
Dream Valley Challenges..."Clean and Simple"
Pile it On..."With Thanks"
Sentimental Sundays..."Giving Thanks"
Cupcake Inspirations..."Photo Inspiration"
My Sheri Crafts..."Fall/Thanksgiving"
Connie Can Crop..."Leaf it Up to Me"
Ladybug Crafts..."Autumn Colors"
Delicious Doodles..."CAS"
Digi Haven..."Fall"
Totally Paper Crafts..."CAS"
Word Art Wednesday..."Anything Goes"

This card has placed in the following challenges...


Posted by at 19 comments

A "Sweet" Farewell

Hi Everyone!  It's post number four for this week!  It's been a busy one!
Today's post is brought to you courtesy of {The Lollipop Ladies}.  Today will also be my last creation and post with them.  As you've hopefully already read in a previous post, I have decided to cut down on the number of design teams I'm on as I have accepted a teaching position at our local craft store.  My term has come to an end with TLL and I have enjoyed my time with them.  They have been an awesome group of ladies to work with!

On with the post...

As always, we have a yummy inspiration picture for you!


...and your additional twist for this challenge is to use a sentiment!

My inspiration for this challenge comes from the various colors in the picture.  I made it my goal to try to incorporate every color pictured on my card!  I also used the cake itself as inspiration...just in a mini version...the cupcake!  I love cupcakes.  They are my go to dessert if we have unexpected company announce they are coming, or if I need to bring something to a function but need to make something quick.  The thing I love about cupcakes is that you can dress them up, or down!  As for the sentiment, it's a message I'd like to send out to all of you who have participated in our challenges since I've been here...as well as the awesome design team.  You ladies have been so sweet and a pleasure to work with. 

Here's a look at my creation...

 

The cupcakes and sentiment have been printed and cut with my Silhouette Cameo...don't look to close as the sentiment didn't cut all that well...guess it's new blade time.  The sweet little girl image is a clipart file from Digi Web Studio, and is called "Bridget Loves Cupcakes".  I've popped up random cupcakes on the background with 3D pop up dots, and Bridget has been popped up as well.  Lastly, I've added some stickles to the cherries on the cupcakes to give the card a little sparkle.  I have to admit that this card didn't take very long to make and is nothing fancy...sorry, it's just been that kinda week! 
I hope that I've maybe given you a little inspiration with this card.  So far we have not had any entries for this challenge, but don't fear as you still have a few days left to participate. 
Our sponsor for this challenge is Annabelle Stamps...

http://www.annabellestamps.com/

who is offering a lucky winner a $10 gift voucher!*
Remember that there are also Guest Designer spots to be won! 
*prize only awarded if there are 7 or more entries in the challenge
So get creating...use the colors, textures, any elements on the cake that inspire you!  Let your imagination run free!  I will pop by here from time to time to see how things are going and would love to see some super creativity linking up with this fantastic concept blog!  I'm hoping to even play myself once in awhile! 



Update...this card placed in the following challenges


Posted by at 8 comments

Dust Off Those Punches & Dies

Happy Wednesday Everyone!  Glad you've stopped by for a visit!

Today I want to share with you our current challenge over at Crafty Creations Challenges!  We are wanting to see your creations made with "Dies and Punches".  Unfortunately this will be my last post with Crafty Creations Design Team as I have accepted a card class teaching position with our local craft store...and as you all know there are only so and so many hours in a day!  I have enjoyed my time with the fantastic ladies of Crafty Creations and look forward to now playing along with them as a challenge entrant!

Our super sponsor for this challenge is none other than "A Day for Daisies"

 

It's kinda funny...when I joined up with Crafty Creations the first digi I had to play with was from "A Day for Daisies".  I had never ever used a digi stamp before this!  How fitting that the last digi I use with CCC is ADFD as well!  
The beautiful digi that I had the pleasure of working with for this last challenge was "Gentle Baby".  I chose this image because of it's softness and it reminded me of one of my favorite Christmas songs..."Mary Did You Know"
Here's a look at how I used this digi...


...and a closer look


Now of course our challenge was to use dies and punches...and boy did I ever!  I've used a poinsettia die to create all of the flowers.  I've also used the swirl die cuts from my Silhouette Cameo.  I've used an oval Nestabilities die to cut out the centre portion of Mary and baby and have popped it up on top of the large color image to give them some dimension.  Lastly, I've also used a Tim Holtz ticket die cut to place the sentiment on.  The sentiment is from one of my Stamp 'n Up collections. The image has been colored with my Spectrum Noir and Tim Holtz Distress Markers.  And for the last bit of bling, I've added some pearl swirls I purchased at my local Dollarama, and also some Stamp n' Up pearls on the sentiment.  The background paper has been embossed with a brocade type embossing folder as well as a side strip embossing folder.  I've also added some centres to the flowers with Liquid Pearls.  I hope you like the finished product!  I also hope that you've been inspired to dust off your dies and punches as well and get creative.  The other design team members over at Crafty Creations also have some fabulous projects to inspire you as well, so be sure to check those out.  We can hardly wait to see what you come up with!

Until next time...

This card has been entered in the following challenges...
LEJ Designs..."Seasons Greetings"
Songbird Challenge Blog... "Favorite Song"...("Mary Did You Know")
Artistic Inspirations..."Use a Sentiment"
The Crafty Bloggers Network..."Christmas"
Without Words..."Getting Ready for Christmas"
Addicted to Stamps Challenge Blog..."Dies and Punches"
Great Impressions..."Christmas Card or Tag"
Sentimental Sundays..."Warm & Cozy" (a mothers hug/snuggle)
Crafty Calendar Challenges..."All Things Christmas"
Inky Chicks..."Swirls and Pearls"
Word Art Wednesday..."Anything Goes"
365 Cards..."Highlighter"
The Crafter's Cafe Challenge..."Embellish Like a Crazy Person"
Crafting By Designs..."Anything Goes with a Twist of Christmas"
Fab 'n Funky Challenges..."Anything Goes"
Handmade Harbour..."Christmas"
Inklings & Yarns..."Anything Goes"
Scrapper's Delights Challenges..."Anything Goes"
The Sisterhood of Crafters..."Embossing"
Stampavie and More Challenges..."Die Cut Embellishments"

This card has placed in the following challenges...



Posted by at 22 comments

Oooo Baby, Baby!

Welcome back again!  Today is a busy day...this is my second post of the day.  If you have wandered here looking for my Twist of Faith Card Challenges post, please scroll down.

It's another exciting challenge over at {Pin}spirational Challenges starting now!  Wait until you see the darling photo we have for your {pin}spiration this week!  Are you ready?


How precious is that?

Before we get to my interpretation of this darling photo let me give you all the sponsor info for this week.  We are pleased to be sponsored by...

Creative Bug Digital Stamps
who will award one lucky winner prize winner a set of 15 digis! 
and...


who will award one lucky winner 7 digis of their choice!

For this challenge I had the priviledge of working with Bugaboo's "Sock Monkey Girl Love".  I came across a sketch over at A Die For A Sketch that I thought would work just perfectly for the picture in my mind.  Here's a look at the sketch...

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0OxZ7-CgSybbpjcc_ehyphenhyphenbB-Wg5Rr5C9GFb2i4Ed8icQRUfePSwCmT7n0-j3z27Ce2Fd3APIgxAShJDbOm5Zj8Oi5sJ8KItxd8TkrpW7GVEN2lLUVyEw1HjqCQxGLYuP5FRqBxyM3eij9A/s400/Challege_No.18.jpg

 ...and here's a look at my creation inspired by our {Pin}spirational photo!


And a closer look at the awesome little digi I got to design with!


The sock monkey digi has been colored with my Tim Holtz Distress Markers.  The papers and sentiment used (with the exception of the brown colored card stock) have been cut and printed with my Silhouette Cameo.  The ribbon was a purchase at Walmart!  I just loved the colors and knew it would be perfect for this card.  I actually broke out the sewing machine my mom got me from our local thrift shop and decided to do some stitching on the card.  This is the first time I have stitched on a card...I absolutely hate to sew!  LOL
However, sewing on paper is not nearly as complicated or frustrating as trying to pin and sew a pattern of clothing!  I do need some practice on sewing a straight line though!  LOL  I was just impressed I could actually remember how to thread a machine.  The little buttons are also a Walmart purchase!  Just gotta love Walmart!

I was very pleased with how this card turned out.  A friend of mine will be having a baby later this month...and I'm secretly hoping it's a girl so I can give this card to her!

I hope I've been able to {pin}spire you with my little creation!  Remember to visit the {Pin}spirational Challenge blog to see my other teamies creations. We can hardly wait to see what you will create!

Until next time...

This card has been entered in the following challenges...
A Die for a Sketch..."Sketch & Die"  (sentiment was cut with die cutting machine)
4 Krafty Girlz..."Anything Goes"
Cute Card Thursday..."Animal Magic"
Brown Sugar Challenges..."Anything Goes"
Daring Cardmakers..."The Other Occasions & Reasons"
Sister Act Challenges..."Anything Goes"
Di's Digi Designs..."Girly" 
Pumpkin Spice..."Family"
The Squirrel and the Fox Challenge..."Animal Antics"
Artistic Inspirations..."Use a Sentiment"
The Cutie Pie Challenge Blog..."Little Cuties/Babies/Children"
The Paper Makeup Stamps Challenge Blog..."Stitching"
Love to Scrap..."Anything Goes"
Ohh La La Creations..."Stitching"
The Paper Girls Challenge Blog..."Cut it Out" (sentiment die cut)
Cuttin and Stampin Challenge Blog..."Family"
Die Cuttin Divas..."Buttons"
Ribbon Carousel Blog..."Holidays or Celebrations"
Lady Anne's Challenge Blog..."More that One Layer"

Update:  This card has placed in the following challenges...




Posted by at 18 comments

All Layered Up!

Thanks for stopping by today!  It's a busy day here on the blog...if you're here looking for my {Pin}spirational Challenges post, please scroll up!

I must admit I've really been getting into the Christmas mood lately.  The Christmas commercials on TV have started, I've been toying with the idea of starting to decorate the house next week and I've even done a bit of shopping already.  And now with the craft sale over, it's time to start completing our own Christmas cards to hand out.

Today's challenge at Twist of Faith gave me just the opportunity to start on our little stash of cards.  I have a friend in mind to receive this little beauty, but I won't go into too much detail because she may read this blog post!
This week we are challenging you to create a project with...

"LOTS OF LAYERS"

And we are so excited to be sponsored once again by Meljen's Designs!  (This just happens to be one of my absolute favorite digi stores!!)  They have offered one lucky random prize winner 4 uncolored digis of their choice!  (Be sure to check out their website as they are currently having a 50% off sale!  Yippee!)

For this challenge, I had the pleasure of working with the digi entitled "Caroling Snowmen", the pre colored version.  (Yes, I cheated because I knew I had so much going on this week!)

Here's my creation...


I'm not sure my interpretation of this challenge is exactly spot on this week.  I decided to go with tri fold step card I cut out using my Silhouette Cameo.  I changed up the shape of it a little to make it fit on my 12x12 page as I wanted to print and cut the layering pieces on the same sheet of paper using background paper also from the Silhouette Cameo...so the folds haven't come out completely correct.  First time making a tri fold step card...please forgive the learning curve.  To me this style of card just looks like it has different layers to it as it flips out in several areas.  I took the layering aspect for the rest of the card to a more subtle and simple idea.  I layered with several types of snowflake die cuts with some silver rhinestones for shimmer,  and added a snowy village scene on the bottom layer of the card under the three caroling snowman in the centre.  I fussy cut one of the pre colored digis to create some carolers on the sides of the card as well.  And of course, there was a sentiment needed.  Unfortunately it does not show up too well on this photo...it's right above the centre trio and reads...

"Sing praise and joy to God above
for His gracious gift of peace and love"

I found it among one of my Stamp 'n Up collections and thought it was perfect for these caroling snowmen.  It's funny how Christmas gets us thinking about peace and love more than we do any other time of the year.  Only fitting I suppose as Christmas is the beginning of the greatest gift ever given, and the greatest love ever shown.  We were given the greatest gift of all time...a Saviour who is the greatest example of both peace and love.  We are so lucky the story didn't end there!  He came and conquered death, rose from the grave and saved us from our sins.    What better reason is there to sing?

Well, now it's your turn to create a project with layers.  Just remember that our weekly twist at Twist of Faith is that you must use a scripture, encouraging, healing or uplifting sentiment.  We can hardly wait to see what you come up with.

Until next time...

This card has been entered in the following challenges...
 C.R.A.F.T Challenge..."Christmas"
Crafty Little Fairies..."Christmas in November"
4 Krafty Girlz..."Anything Goes"
Creative Corner Challenges..."Sing a Song"  (We Wish You a Merry Christmas)
Jingle Belles..."Holiday Traditions" (Caroling - either with a group or just in church)
Silhouette Challenges..."Anything Holiday"
Great Impressions..."Holiday Card or Tag"
Brown Sugar Challenge..."Anything Goes"
Sister Act Card Challenges..."Anything Goes" 
Meljen's Designs..."Friends Forever" 
2 Sister Challenge Blog..."Christmas Sparkle" 
A Gem of a Challenge..."Gems,Gems,Gems"
Crafty Calender Challenges..."Christmas"
My Creative Moments/Word Play Saturday..."Snowman"
Craftyhazelnut's Christmas..."Outdoors"
Hobby Cutz Challenges..."Winter Wonderland"
Artistic Inspirations..."Use a Sentiment" 
Love to Scrap..."Anything Goes" 
The Paper Girls Challenge Blog..."Cut it Out" (card template cut with Silhouette, several dies used)
Bearly Mine Challenges..."Christmas in Pink"
LEJ Designs..."Seasons Greetings"
Deep Ocean Challenge..."Winter"
Papertake Weekly Challenges..."Snow & Ice"
Lady Anne's Challenge Blog..."More than One Layer" 
Word Art Wednesday..."Anything Goes"


This card has placed in the following challenges...





Posted by at 23 comments

Craft Sale Fun!

Hi there!  Today's post is simply a post for fun!
I've talked about the craft sale I was going to participate in for awhile, and it finally took place last Saturday, November 02, 2013.  I am happy to report that it was a great success!  It had been awhile since I had participated in a craft sale, and my product went over very well.  I was specializing in vintage/retro cards...and wow did people love the Christmas cards especially!

I had my hubby and kiddos very busy breaking apart pallets and working with old barn wood we had laying around the yard and turning them into my display stands.  I had chicken wire baskets that I knew I would be using on the table, so I had them incorporate chicken wire into the stands.  We came up with a design for "old fashioned" windows on which the cards could hang with clothes pins.  I was lucky enough to come across the cutest clothes pins during a shopping spree to Michaels...they were just adorable!  A trip to the local thrift store yielded a pair of girls skates which I hung off the corner of one of the stands.  The dollar store provided a pair of red mittens, and a stop at a local florist allowed me some fresh winter greens and pinecones...oh they smelled so good!  And lastly, the old vintage barn lantern sitting behind one of the window displays illuminated with battery powered mini lights completed the entire display!

Well, enough description...let's look at some pics!







I had so much fun doing this!  I was asked to come back again next year...so the card making will continue and hopefully I will have a bigger stash for next year!

Thanks for letting me share with you!

Until next time...
Posted by at 3 comments

In Remembrance

Hello!  Glad you could stop by today!
 I'm back after an exciting and successful craft sale.  I hope to post some pics this week yet...so stay tuned!

Today however, I am showcasing a clean and simple card I created for our current challenge over at Twist of Faith Card Challenges.  This week our theme is "In Remembrance", and we are once again excited to be sponsored by DigiDarla Designs! They will be awarding one lucky random winner 5 digis of their choice!

I had the pleasure of playing with the digi stamps "Dandelion Spray" and "Sympathy Set".  I never find sympathy cards easy to put together...not sure why.  It seemed less stressful this time though because I wasn't actually creating out of a need...I was able to create to have a sympathy card on hand.  I always hope that a handmade card during the time of the loss of a loved one will hopefully convey that you are thinking of those left behind and have taken the time to honor them with something special.

Here's my "In Remembrance" creation...


Now it's your turn!  Create a card and link up with us at Twist of Faith!  We can hardly wait to see what you come up with!

Until next time...

This card has been entered in the following challenges...
Kaboodle Doodles..."Tribute to a Loved One"
Word Art Wednesdays..."Anything Goes"
Digi Darla's Challenges..."Photo Inspiration" (Yellow/Orange tones from the Oranges)
My Sheri Crafts..."Sympathy"

Update:  This card placed in the following challenges




Posted by at 8 comments

A Blue Christmas...Mixed Media Style!


Welcome Back!  
Four posts in a week...whew!  That's a lot going on!

Today I'm back with our current challenge at {The Lollipop Ladies}.  Ready for our yummy photo    inspiration?
Here it is...


Yum, Yum, Yum....COOKIE!

...with our additional twist of "Off the Page".

Now I wasn't sure where I was going to go with this project when all of a sudden it hit me!  I had been wanting to do a mixed media canvas for some time and thought this could be the perfect time to try it!  (Hopefully a canvas creation is considered "off the page"!)

I had shown our kiddos some photos of various canvas projects and they were so very excited to help along!  We took a trip to our local craft store where we purchased stickers, some stamps, masks and mists.  My daughter picked out the colors and really I just got lucky she wanted to use blue/teal among the other colors! (We also used pinks and silver.)  We dug through our selection of acrylic paints, hauled out the Modge Podge and Gesso and got messy! (The messy Modge Podge and painting/spraying is what my son enjoyed the most!) We stamped on tissue paper and decoupaged it to the canvas, we used Gesso to raise up areas on random sections of the canvas using our various masks, we dotted paint on with Qtips, we added the sentiment stickers...and all through this process we just kept building up layers of paint and mist!  We had chosen a digi stamp Christmas Tree from "Fresh Brewed Designs" to make the make focus of our canvas.  My daughter also picked out the papers that we used to paper piece the tree.  We finally came to the decision that it looked good as it was and we should stop adding things.  Lastly, we sealed it with a final coat of Modge Podge!

Here is our final product!


The kids were very pleased with how it turned out.  I was surprised when my son asked if I could take a picture of him holding it so he could take the photo to school for "Show and Tell".  I think for a first attempt it didn't turn out to badly!  We included the colors of the Cookie Monster Cupcake inspiration photo as well as went with a texture theme!  I hope you can see how the photo lead to our creativity!

So get your children or grandchildren excited about creating with you...or just enjoy your creative space yourself and take up our challenge!  Try something new!  We managed to do it and I know you can too!  Maybe you want to bake a batch of cupcakes that resemble the picture...maybe you want to create a gift bag or box!  Let your imagination lead you...and then link up on {The Lollipop Ladies}sidebar so we can see what you've created!
And, if you're needing more inspiration, the other {Lollipop Ladies} have made more fantastic creations to inspire you.  Take time to check those out at the blog as well.  And of course all the sponsor details, Guest Designer details will be there too!  But you have to hurry...there's only a few days left!

Until next time...

This project has been entered in the following challenges...
Craft Room Challenge..."Stencils and Masks" 
Crafty Sentiments Designs..."Anything Goes"
Party Time Tuesdays..."Anything Goes"
Through the Craft Room Door..."Anything Goes"
Twisted Tuesday Challenges..."Free for All/Anything Goes"
Love to Scrap..."Shades of Blue"
The Crazy Challenge..."B is for..."  (B is for Blue)
613 Avenue Create..."Anything Goes/Paper Piecing"
Sweet Stampin'..."Wood, Trees or Leaves"
Handmade Harbour..."Having Fun" (the kids and I had so much fun together & Christmas is fun too!)
Inklings & Yarns..."Anything Goes"
Simon Says Stamp..."Anything Goes"
An Inky Situation..."Anything Goes"
Aud Sentiments..."Christmas Sentiment"





Posted by at 19 comments
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)

Thanks for visiting!

Thanks for visiting!