Happy Halloween!!

Happy Halloween

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

I love Halloween, and am excited to see all the cute Halloween costumes tonight. We are planning to have lots of fun tonight. Here is a quick card I threw together using a left over tag from the Halloween Hooha projects, you can find more information about those projects by here. Hafe a fun and safe Halloween.

**My son is having surgery tomorrow so I will not be posting any new updates for the retired stamp set blowout until Friday at least. I will also not be shipping anymore packages until Friday due to tomorrow's events. Thank you for understanding!

Project Details

Stamps: Web Wishes, Booglie Eyes

Cardstock: Basic Black, Certainly Celery, Elegant Eggplant, Pumpkin Pie and Whisper White

Ink: Basic Black, Certainly Celery, Elegant Eggplant

Other: 1/4" and 1 3/8" circle punches, Marvy Uchida scalloped and circle punch, Silver Brads, Pumpkin Celery and Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Black Polka0dot Ribbon (May Arts), Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, White Gel Pen

Holiday Hooha... Many Magical Moments

Many Magical Moments

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

The holiday hooha class is just around the corner... I received all the stamps and goodies for this month's class today. Most of the demonstrators I know design their projects before they order their supplies... I have a more backward way of thinking. I pick the colors, supplies and stamp sets and then I design the projects when they get here. I tend to see a stamp set and instantly start seeing cards, color combination etc..

Here is the card designed for the girls who picked the Festive Favorites stamp set. I tried to keep the card fun, and simple since the girls have only a few hours to create 20 of these. I am hoping to design a few samples to show using this set, check back throughout the week to see more fun samples with this set as well as the hooha sets for this month.

Project Details

Stamps: Festive Favorites
Cardstock: Very Vanilla, Basic Black, Purely Pomegranate, Blue Bayou and Soft Sky

Ink: Basic Black, Purely Pomegranate, Soft Sky

Other: Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Purely Pomagranate Double Stitched Ribbon, Black and White Polka-dot Ribbon (May Arts), 1/4" Circle Punch, Liquid Applique, Iredescent Ice Embossing Powder.

Blowout Shipments

I have designed this post to help those who have purchased stamp sets and supplies from my retired list. I will be updating this thread only with information about shipments including tracking information. Please check here for updates and email me with any questions you have, kylamaestas@msn.com . Please post or email when your products arrive. To track your package please visit www.usps.com and refer to the delivery confirmation number found below.

October 30 Shipment 11:30 AM MST
Karen Quattlebaum #03071790000154452901
Bobbie Lawrence #03071790000154452918
Cathrine Alstott #03071790000154452932
Luella Newby #03071790000154452949
Diana Gensler #03071790000154459894
Nicole Grill #03071790000154452925 (insurance ref # 13072390000005783893)

*If you have your paypal payment has cleared and your name is not on the list above, please do not panic. I will be making multiple trips to the post office... there will be an additional shipment today (Oct 30), I ran out of packing materials, they will be shipped this evening and information posted at that time.

Tag-a-palooza Organizer

Tag Organizer

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

I started with the tags and let my imagination lead me from there. I had originally envisioned a fun storage container for all the tags... at first I was thinking about an Altoids container with some decorative paper. Instead I decided to attempt something with cardstock.

I started with a 6x6 Stampin' Up! page protector, I thought this would be a great pocket .... sturdy enough to hold the weight, and see through to show off all the fun tags. And wouldn't it be great if you could organize all of your holiday shopping in one little organizer?

Tag Organizer ~Inside View~

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

The inside has an area to keep track of your holiday shopping list, and a pocket to store all of your receipts. If you want more details about recreating this project, click here and include your email address in the thread. I will be creating a word document with all the details for recreating this project.

Project Details

Stamps: Newsprint Alphabet, Punch Pals

Cardstock: Basic Black, Whisper White, Blue Bayou, Soft Sky and Very Vanilla, Soft Sky Designer Series Paper

Ink: Basic Black, Blue Bayou, Soft Sky

Other: Black Polka-dot Ribbon (May Arts), Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Silver Cording, Silver Brads, Variety of Sizzix Dies (various tags), Variety of Stampin Up! Punches (details will be included in the word document)

Tag-A-Palooza!!

Tag-A-Palooza!!
Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

I have had a fabulous day, creating projects and ideas for my upcoming classes. I wanted to host a tag class to show off all the different things you can do for the holidays with rubber stamps. Here is a sneak peak of the projects I have been creating.

More details on the way, very soon!I will be posting more details about the projects in upcoming posts throughout the weekend.

Template and Instructions for Organizer to come!!

I will be constructing a word document with the instructions for creating the tag organizer (measurements etc), if you would like to receive this document once completed please include your email address in your comments to this post and I will gladly forward them on.

Off to ice my foot: I have surgery done on my toe last week, it has been extremely painful. I made an emergency appointment last night to see the dr to discover that the pain is coming from an infection...*ouch*. Thanks for stopping by!

Retired Stamp Set SALE!!

Retired Stamp Set Sale!!

As part of my stamp room cleaning mission... I am selling a ton of retired sets. All of these sets have retired in the last few years. . If you have questions about a stamps condition please let me know. Because of the amount of sets I am selling I was unable to photograph them individually but you can contact me at kylamaestas@msn.com for information about the sets you are interested in and I will be happy to describe the set condition.

Shipping and Handling: All stamp orders will receive priority shipping ( I am not charging additional handling fees you will be charged actual shipping costs), rates based upon the size of the order, delivery confirmation will be included with each purchase for tracking purposes. I take no responsibility for packages lost by USPS (I have had few if any issues with USPS deliveries but I am unable what happens to the packages once they are out of my hands), for large purchases I recommend purchasing package insurance. I will do my best to ensure that all packages are shipped to arrive in the same condition they leave my house.

Stamp Set Condition: The majority of these sets have been lacquered and professionally mounted with extremely close mounting, there are a few sets that come to you unmounted (UM watch description for details). Stamp sets to be sold at price listed. These sets are in good condition with little or no staining for the most part. Sets marked with * are missing one or more pieces to the original set. Please remember that I am a Stampin' Up! demonstrator and have used most of these sets in my classes, workshops and other events so there may be staining on the wood and rubber.

Bulk Purchasing: Purchase $100 or more and receive $5.00 off. Most sets have already been marked down from their original catalog or current value. Some sets because of their availability may be priced differently from their original retail value, these sets were priced based on their current values.

Payment: Please email your purchase list to kylamaestas@msn.com stamp sets will be sold on a first come first serve basis, you will receive an email confirmation from me shortly after with a total cost. Payments are expected within 48 of the this email being sent, if payment is not received by this date I reserve the right to re-list the stamp sets. Stamp set listing that have been colored red are spoken for, items in blue are paid for and awaiting shipping, and will be removed at the close of sale from the original listing. Payments are payable through Paypal only at this time (paid to the email address listed above), credit card payments accepted through paypal. Anything currently sold by Stampin Up! is for trade only, contact me for details.

Because Of You $13.00

Cool Cat $10.00 Reserved pnwstamper

All Natural $10.00

Simple Sayings $12.00

Wonderful Weaves $12.00

Little Hellos $10.00

Tags so Much $10.00

A Quiet Life $17.00

Little Layers $13.00

Its a Party $15.00

Occasionally $10.00

Word Play $20.00 (includes coordinating wheel confetti)

Buds and Blossoms $15.00

Ladybug Picnic $18.00

Good O'l Summertime $16.00

Just Beakause (never been used, mounted) $20.00

Oh, My Word $15.00

Toucan of My Love $16.00

Sketch an Event $12.00

Polka-Dot Posies $15.00

Campout $16.00 Reserved Nicole Gill

Just For Fun $$16.00

Sheltering Tree $16.00

Buttons Bows and Twinkletoes $23.oo

Little Layers II $12.00

Paris in Spring $20.00

Quick and Cute $10.00

Pocket Fun $18.00 Luella Newby

Merry $16.00

Girlfriends + Girlfriends Accessories $20.00 for both Reserved Sek111sbc

Out of this World $16/00 Cathy

Haunts and Howls $25.00

Laundry Notes (UM) $19.00

Laundry Notes $17.00

Bubble Queen $16.00 Reserved Nicole Gill

Totally Cool $15.00 *missing corner stamp

Pretty Princess $15.00

Petal Pushers $20.00

Fishy Friends $15.00

Buggies and Booties $15.00

Flowers for a Friend $15.00

Sparkling Summer $20.00

All Wrapped Up + Accessories set $18.00 Reserved Nicole Gill

Winged Things $18.00

Very Punny $10.00

Sparling Season $15.00

All Year Cheer II and III $3500 for set Sue

Island Blossoms $23.00 never used, mounted

Thanksgiving Blessings $14.00 Reserved Karen Quattebaum

Crazy Numbers $13.00

Polar Pals $15.00 Reserved Nicole Gill

Send a Celebration $8.00

Smorgasborders $8.00

Alphabet Soup $8.00

Phrase Starters II $15.00

Along the Same Lines $16.00

Garden Collage $8.00

Faith and Hope $15.00

Fall Whimsy $9.00 Reserved pnwstamper

Lexicon of Love $8.00

All I Have Seen $8.00

Cute as a Bug $11.00

Power Up $16.00 never been used, mounted

Loving Hearts $15.00

Happy Harmony $8.00 partially mounted

Sweet of You $14.00

A Little Love $ 8.00

Love Ya Bunches $8.00

Nice and Narrow $15.00 (small circle missing)

Celebrate in Style $15.00

Mon Ami $11.00

Spring Garden $15.00

In the Wild $15.00

Frolicking Frogs $22.00

Riveting $10.00 Maryann

Espressoly For You $17.00

Artifacts $18.00

The Cats Meow $17.00 Reserved for Sek111wbc

Baby Talk $18.00

Natural Beauty $16.00

Love Without End $13.00

All the Best $15.00

Fun Filled $8.00

Classic Pickups $16.00 Reserved Nicole Gill

Blooming with Happiness $10.00 Becky

Play on Words $14.00

Delight in Life $ 8.00

Kanji $5.00 Reserved Nicole Gill

Tiny Talk $6.00

Stars and Swirls $5.00

Birthday Best $5.00 Patti M

Trick or Treat $5.00

Burst Into Bloom $5.00

Sweet On You $7.00

Wising You the Best $6.00

Spring Fling $5.00

Little Shapes $3.00

Festive Four $5.00

Olive You $12.00

Flower Filled $15.00 Becky

Friend are Like Flowers $14.00

Knobby Gnomes $14.00 Reserved Nicole Gill

Simple Shapes $14.00

Bundle Up $14.00

Measure of Life $16.00 Maryann

The World Over $14.00 (new never been mounted)

Snowflakes $16.00 Reserved Karen Quattebaum

Wonderful Words II $15.00

Toy Box $25.00 1 stamp used one time

Love It $15.00 new never used, mounted Reserved Diana G

The World Over mounted, use once $12.00 (specify mounted when purchasing)

Favorite Teddy Bear $24.00

Mixed Bouquet $24.00

I'm Here $20.00

Nature's Secret $24.00

Fresh Fruits $22.00

Shapes and Shadows $22.00

Alphabuilders $15.00

Botanicals $15.00

Travel Time $24.00

All Mixed Up $25.00 New UM

Both Way Blossoms $14.00

Bold Butterlfy $23.00

Business Boosters $10.00

Aloha $23.00

Journaling Fun $15.00

Petal Prints $23.00

Sew Seasonal $18.00

Roses and Winter $24.00 Patti M

On Gossamer Wings $24.00

By Definition $ 12.00

Soft Swirls $12.00

Dots and Daisies $12.00

Linograph $12.00 Bobbie Lawrence

Just Jeans $12.00

Big Blossom $8.00

Bitty Blossoms $12.00

Crosshatch $12.00

Houndstooth $12.00

Balmy Breezes $16.00 Bobbie Lawrence

Retired Products etc.....

Rich Regal Heat Embossing Stacks $14.00 only used once
Soft Subltes Heat Embossing Stack $14.oo only used once
Bold Bright Embossing Stack $14.00 only used once

Metal Edge Tags- Current trade only

Small Marvy Uchida Square Punch $8.00

Color Box Chalks (SU) $10.00 (Brights and Subtles never opened) Maryann

Color Box Chalks (SU) $10.00 (Subtles refiflls, never used)

Color Box Chalks (SU) $10.00 (Earths and Regals opened used a few times) Maryann

Stampin Write Markers $1.00 (set of four Marvelous Magenta, Rose Romance, Mint Melody, Forest Foliage... these have been used a few times, tips is excellent condition)

Adrindack Alcohol Inks (Nature Walk) never opened $6.00 (marked 9.99)

Punch Pals Craze

Punch Pals Craze

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

I have to admit, despite my recent lack of motivation to stamp, I have actually enjoyed playing with this stamp set. I have a tag class coming in November and is one of the sets featured in the class. I wanted some card samples for each of the sets to show during Tool Time. For those who attend my stamping classes, sorry for the spoiler... but no worries... I am not posting all the samples before the class so there will be plenty of new surprises.

Tis the Season

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

Project Details

Stamps: Punch Pals

Cardstock: Basic Black, Naturals, Soft Sky, Blue Bayou and Soft Sky Designer Series Paper

Ink: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Purely Pomegranate, Certainly Celery, Soft Sky, Blue Bayou, Whisper White Craft, Basic Black

Other: Marvy Uchida Giga Scalloped and Mega Circle (all other punches SU), Scalloped Circle ,Word Window Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch, Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Silver Cording, Black Polka-dot Ribbon (May Arts), Silver Brads, Liquid Applique, Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder, Crafter's Tool Kit, White Gel Pen

More Project Details: The white dots around the largest scalloped circle were created using Liquid Applique and Iridescent Ice embossing powder. For tips on creating the penguin's scarf, click here.

Happy Holidays

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

Project Details
Stamps: Punch Pals
Cardstock: Basic Black, Naturals, Soft Sky, Blue Bayou and Soft Sky Designer Series Paper
Ink: Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Purely Pomegranate, Certainly Celery, Soft Sky, Blue Bayou, Whisper White Craft, Basic Black
Other: Word Window Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch, Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Silver Cording, Black Polka-dot Ribbon (May Arts), Silver Brads, Liquid Applique, Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder, Crafter's Tool Kit, White Gel Pen

More Project Details: For tips on creating the snowman click here.

Snowman Fun

Snowman Fun

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

I have tried to edit the Let It Snow post several times with no success, technical issues with blogger... I wanted to share some tips and techniques for creating the snowman card. For the original card details, click here.

Sketch Challenge #146 for details about this sketch challenge, click here.

More Project Details

Snowman Shadow: I stamped to snowman on Shimmering White cardstock (not whisper white as stated in original post). I watercolored one of the snowman and cut out. On the uncut snowman I used Soft Sky re-inker and colored on the right hand side deliberately going outside the lines. When I mounted the cut out piece over the base image I placed it off center exposing this water colored side to create a shadow effect.

Snow Fun: When I began working with Liquid Applique (several years ago) I was not excited about the product because it was still squishy after being heat set. A dear friend, Sherri Retton, had shared a fabulous tip to harden the liquid applique and I loved the effect. I used this same tip here... to harden the snow simply add heat embossing powder over the top before heat setting the liquid applique. I used iridescent ice embossing powder for the glittering effect.

Scarf: To create the scarf I used my table top cutter to cut small slivers of Soft Sky designer paper. I tied these carefully around the snowman and curled the ends by wrapping them around the end of my paper piercing tool. I recommend using a few extra strands when doing this... despite being careful I broke several strands getting the knot tied.

*Let it Snow*

Let It Snow!

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

My dear friend Gina Pacheco and I challenged each other to do some stamping, both of us have suffered a lack of stamping time. This was a fun sketch, glad I took the time to play! To see Gina's creation, click here.

Sketch Challenge #146 for details about this sketch challenge, click here.

Project Details
Stamps: Punch Pals
Ink: Basic Black, Soft Sky, Blue Bayou, Purely Pomegranite, Appricot Appeal, Creamy Caramel, Certainly Celery
Cardstock: Blue Bayou, Soft Sky, Basic Black, Whisper White, Soft Sky Designer Series Paper
Other: Black Brads, Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Silver Cord, White Narrow Organdy Ribbon, White Polka-Dot Ribbon (May Arts), Liquid Applique, Irredescent Ice Embossing Powder, Crafter's Tool Kit, 1/4" Circle Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, Word Window Punch, Scalloped Circle Punch

Fab-u-lous Office Creations

Fab-u-lous Office Creations

These are part of the Cosmo Cricket creations designed earlier this week. In an effort to start using some of the craft supplies I have purchased, I used a small paint bucket to create a coordinating pen container for my desk. The Dutchgirl scrapbooking kit had several borders and journaling boxes with various sayings used to complete these projects.

The Fab-u-lous 3"x5" ring was created to house my favorite SCS challenges... I have one section for sketches, one for techniques, and one for colors. I have several rings that I used to keep track of all the challenges, but I created this one for my favorites.

Project Details
Paper: Cosmo Cricket Dutchgirl, Whisper White Cardstock
Other: So Saffron Brads, Round Tab Punch, 1/4" Punch

Cosmo Cricket.... Address Book

Cosmo Cricket ~Address Book

I stumbled across an old and very ugly address book I had purchased from Walgreen's a couple of years ago, one of those fabulous $1 finds. When I purchased the book, it was with the intention to recover it and I just never got around to doing it. I covered the book with various patterned papers from the Cosmo Cricket Dutchgirl collection. I am very pleased with the out come of the project with the exception of one thing... I had so much fun taking it apart and redesigning it... that I never imagined how difficult it would be to put back together lol. I have made several attempts to rebind it with no success so I am taking it to the local copy store to let them work their magic.

More projects and details to come throughout the week. Enjoy!

Project Details
Stamps: Dotted Autumn (Friend)
Paper: Cosmo Cricket Dutchgirl, Whisper White Card stock
Other: Ruby Red Brads, Large Oval Punch, Key tag Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch, Mod Podge (high gloss)

A Little Sidetracked

A little sidetracked....

any stamping SHE's out there?

Getting sidetracked is easy to do... I have a very hard time completing a task because I have a tendency to wonder off and do something else. I am undeniably a SHE. It doesn't matter if I am cleaning my house or cleaning my stamp room... I will see something out of place or something of interest and all of the sudden I am completely off task. This leads me to my most recent bird walk...As I was sorting paper today I discovered a Cosmo Cricket scrapbooking kit that I won during the Paper Crafts Card Idol contest.


I decided to open it for a quick look, first time I have had a chance to peak at what was insde. I have had this kit for months, and never taken the time to look. As I began looking I instantly fell in love with the patterned papers and accessories.


Next thing you know.. I had stopped cleaning.. and began punching out all the fun die cut tags and monogram letters and surfing for my favorite patterned paper. No more visions of my messy stamping room... but ideas of all the fun things you could create with this fabulous kit.


It was so much fun to get all the papers out that I completely forgot that I was supposed to be cleaning... and wouldn't ya know...




I went from daydreaming of fun projects ....to creating them lol. I started slapping paper on anything that would hold still.

Now, I may not have been cleaning my office like I should have lol but I decorated some fun things for my office. I created an address book, some file folders, and a CD storage container among other things! Check back for more details~ I have been sidetracked long enough... I really need to get back to cleaning lol.

~Have a fabulous day and thanks for stopping by to visit.

Super Fling!!

before

Come on In... I am flinging today!

I would invite you in, but as you can clearly see there is a bunch of stuff blocking the door lol. I have made some great strides in cleaning up my stamping area, I am not completely done but I am making some progress.

A Place for Everything... and Everything In It's Place

I am on a mission... a much needed stamp room super cleaning mission. Its a work in progress... but I have managed to get all of my supplies and materials sorted and put away in their new spaces. Do you have a baking cupboard? I do... it houses everything I could possibly need for baking (spices, cupcake liners, extracts, cake mixes, etc), organizing spaces by function can speed the work process. Everything you need is quickly accessible, and helps contain the mess to a smaller area.

I have organized my stamping space in a similar fashion... each of the drawers have a function or purpose. The photograph above is my heat drawer, I have included all the materials I use for heat embossing and other heat related techniques in one space. I have several drawers that were organized around this same concept; example: my coloring drawer (houses my watercolor pencils, metallic pencils, pure colored pencils, chalks etc). I am 90% finished with the drawers and containers.

Amazing... you can actually see the table!

So what's Flinging? Flinging is the process of getting rid of clutter... things you no longer use or enjoy. I have taken out several large garbage sacks full of stuff, I have gone through all my favorite scrapbooking and card making magazines (I love magazines lol, its very hard to part with them) and I actually managed to get rid of a few (more details to come). In addition to the throw away bags I also have a container for items to give away, and items to sell.

I will be updating the items to sell list (post coming soon) daily as I have more time to fling! Be sure to check back for retired stamp sets and accessories. I will be adding them as I continue my cleaning mission.

Greeting Cards Galore!!

Greeting Cards Galore!!

I wanted to post a quick thank you again to all those who participated in our cards drive for troops. Here is a sneak peak at a few the box of cards... I cannot believe how many cards were donated.

I also wanted to share a few of the cards that were donated... it is amazing to see so much talent. Unfortunately I am not sure who the artists are. Thanks again for your donations!

Have more cards laying around? Debbi is currently packaging Christmas Cards, as well as a variety of other holiday and all occasion cards, to send to troops. If you have some extras from last year, left over swap cards etc... they would be greatly appreciated. They are also accepting donations of card stock and envelopes. For more details click here.

Card for Troops ~ 1st Place

First Place ~ U S A
Created by: Amy Walker

First place for the Cards for Troops Contest is awarded to Amy Walker. Congratulations! You wouldn't believe the cards received for this card drive.. I am excited to announce that the prizes and cards for troops are postal today. Thank you for all you help in gathering cards for our troops.

Cards for Troops... Second Place!!

2nd Place ~Butterfly
Created by: Amy Walker

Second place for the Cards for Troops Contest is awarded to Amy Walker. Congratulations! There were so many fabulous cards. Many thanks go out to the judges for their participation.

All Materials Used: Stampin' Up! (at least as far as I can tell, this card did not include a list of materials)

It's No Wonder...

before photo

Stamping Chaos

I was talking on the phone to my dear friend Gina Pacheco yesterday, and one of the many fascinating topics we talked about (believe me lol we can talk for hours at a time) was our stamping spaces. We both determined that our spaces were in dire need of some organizing and tidy up. As you can clearly see my space is completely out of control.

I talked her into a friendly challenge to get our acts cleaned up and ready for stamping. It is no wonder I feel like I have lost my mojo... it is probably lost in the mess with a few other things I have not been able to find. While today is packed with activities, I am hoping to get this portion of my office cleaned and straightened.

Flybaby Crisis Clean

I am a flybaby (anyone else out there flying?) so my plan is to start my timer and do 15 minutes at a time until the job is done. Any guesses on how many times I will have to reset the timer? Flylady is all about flinging and donating items that are not currently being used... so watch out stampers... you are bound to see some fabulous blog candy coming your way very soon!
Out with the old... as part of my office flinging... I will be listed my retired sets and supplies on the blog this weekend. I have some great stamp sets that are looking for new homes.. be sure to check back. Want more info about Flylady, click here.

Not Alone?

Am I the only one with this kind of mess in my stamping space? Is your space in need of some clean up... I would love to see your stamping spaces... clean, messy or otherwise lol. Post a link so we can see where you stamp! I told Gina that we both needed to upload photos of our messes, not that I want the world seeing what I mess my stamp room is, but as a means of commiment. Will she join me in this insane crusade? Lets wait and see... to view Gina's blog click here, I hope we get to see some photos (hint hint miss Gina lol).

Cards for Troops Contest! Miss You Wreath ~3rd Place

3rd Place ~ Miss You Wreath

Created by Lois Jones

Project Details

Paper- Creative Memories

Stamps- Friendship Wreath (Stampin' Up!)

Accessories- Leaf eyelets, Heart Eyelets, Canvas Ribbon

It has been a long time but certainly not forgotten... it has been exciting and difficult coordinating with so many fabulous stampers for the Cards For Troops Contest! One of our judges was unable to participate, and I have had a hard time contacting the other one to get her votes. In an effort to wrap this up and get these amazing cards off to Debbi I am going to do the contest with what I have from the judges who have participated.

I will be announcing winners and sharing photos all day, so be sure to check back!! Prize packages will be mailed out tomorrow, if you are one of the selected winners please be sure to email me with your mailing information. Some of you included this information with your submissions but to ensure accuracy please confirm this information again. kylamaestas@msn.com

A special thanks to those who participated... I have a fabulous box of cards to send to Debbi that will be forwarded to the troops. There were so many beautiful entries for the contest. Thank you to all those who participated, your patience is greatly appreciated.

Grateful Greetings II

Grateful Greetings
Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

Project Details
Stamps: Dotted Autumn, Three For You (dots), Totally Cool (corner), Give Thanks
Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Really Rust, More Mustard, Very Vanilla
Ink: Versamark, Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Pumpkin Pie

Other: Mustard Grosgrain Ribbon, Olive and Mustard Narrow Organdy Ribbon, Copper Cording, Copper Embossing Powder, Old Olive Brads, Key Tag Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch, Scalloped Circle Punch, Large Oval Punch, Copper Brads, Heat Tool, Crafter's Tool Kit
Technique: Curled Ribbon, Paper Piercing, Faux Paper Piercing

More Project Details

I used the vines from the pumpkin image in the Give Thanks stamp set. I used a chocolate chip marker to accent the dotted lines in the grooves of the pumpkin and created all the faux paper piercing and other doodle accents to the card. I used the crafter's tool kit to add holes around the edges of the scalloped circle. The sentiment is heat embossed with Copper Embossing Powder and the ribbons were curled using a heat tool.

Grateful Greetings

Grateful Greetings

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

Project Details

Stamps: Dotted Autumn, Three For You

Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Really Rust, More Mustard, Very Vanilla

Ink: Versamark, More Mustard

Other: Mustard Grosgrain Ribbon, Olive and Mustard Narrow Organdy Ribbon, Copper Cording, Copper Embossing Powder, Old Olive Brads, 1 3/8 and 1 1/4" Circle Punches, 1/4" Circle Punch, Scalloped Circle Punch, Small Oval Punch, Heat Tool

Technique: Curled Ribbon

More Project Details

The card size is 3" x 6". Using Versamark and the dot pattern from Three For You I stamped the dots on the right and left side of the card and heat embossed with Copper Embossing Powder. I also heat embossed the two sentiments on this card "friend" and "Grateful for you". The place setting image is heat embossed and popped up in the background. For the ribbon, I used 3 strands to tie a single bow... after tying the bow I applied a small amount of heat to the bow to curl the edges. I was surprised at how quickly the copper cording reacted to heat, it was much faster than the organdy ribbon, when attempting this technique be cautious of overheating.

Forever Grateful

Forever Grateful

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

In designing projects for a Thanksgiving table... I started thinking about some of our past Thanksgiving celebrations. I instantly thought of my GG and O'pa. These cuties are my adorable great grandparents, they passed several years ago but I have many fond memories of celebrating Thanksgiving with them.

The photo was taken at the last Thanksgiving we spent with the two of them. O'pa passed shortly after, and GG the following year. I was fortunate enough to spend many Thanksgivings with my great grandparents and was lucky to enjoy several years of 5 generation get togethers. I am truly grateful for having them as a part of my life. ~Forever Loved

Project Details
Stamps: Dotted Autumn, Three For You
Ink: Versmark
Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Very Vanilla
Other: Vanilla Organdy, Olive and Mustard Narrow Organdy Ribbon, Copper Cording, Copper Embossing Powder and Copper Brads, Key Tag Punch, Large Oval Punch

More Project Details
I purchased this beautiful yet inexpensive frame at Wal-Mart ($3.00). I removed the photo mat and embossed the dots (Three For You) around the edges and heat embossed with Copper Embossing Powder. I tied the ribbon around the glass and put everything in the frame. The Grateful for You sentiment is popped up on the outside of the glass. I also curled the ribbon using my heat gun.

Dotted Autumn... Grateful Greetings

Dotted Autumn ~ Grateful Greetings

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

More to Come!! Here are two of the cards I created using Dotted Autumn. Check back tomorrow for detailed information about each of the projects!

Thanksgiving Blessings

Thanksgiving Blessing Mix

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

As I was looking for projects and ideas for my tool time presentation I stumbled upon an adorable cello bag full of yummy munchies and a tag explaining the Thanksgiving Blessing Mix. The project was created by Kathy Hill, she was gracious enough to send me all the information to make the project. (Thanks Kathy!!) To view Kathy's Thanksgiving Blessings Mix, click here.

I decided to put my Thanksgiving Blessing Mix in a small paint can I had purchased at AMM. I used the Dotted Autumn stamp set to accessorise the can to coordinate with the rest of the pieces I had created for my dinner table. The hardest part of Thanksgiving is waiting for the delicious food to be served... I thought this mix would be a fabulous munchie as well as an expression of gratitude for the many blessings we have.

Project Details

Stamps: Dotted Autumn

Ink: Versamark (heat embossing)

Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Really Rust, More Mustard, Old Olive and Very Vanilla

Other: Mustard Grosgrain Ribbon, Olive and Mustard Narrow Organdy Ribbon, Copper Cording, More Mustard Brads, 1/4" circle punch (brad mats)

Thanksgiving Blessing Mix Recipe

Ingredients:
2 cups Bugles brand corn snacks 2 cups small pretzels 1 cup candy corn 1 cup dried fruit bits or raisins 1 cup peanuts or sunflower seeds 1 cup M&Ms brand chocolate candy 16 Hershey's brand chocolate kisses

Directions:
In a large bowl, gently mix all ingredients except Hershey's Kisses.
Place 1/3 to 1/2 cup Blessing Mix in small cellophane treat bags. Add one Hershey's Kiss to each bag.

Thanksgiving Blessing Mix

Bugles: Shaped like a cornucopia or Horn of Plenty, a symbol of our nation's abundance.
Pretzels: Arms folded in prayer, a freedom sought by those who founded our country.
Candy corn: Sacrifices of the Pilgrims' first winter. Food was so scarce that settlers survived on just a few kernels of corn a day.
Nuts or seeds: Promise of a a future harvest, one we will reap only if seeds are planted and tended with diligence.
Dried fruits: Harvest gifts of our bountiful land.
M&Ms: Memories of those who came before us to guide us to a blessed future.
Hershey's Kiss: The love of family and friends that sweetens our lives

Dotted Autumn ~ Place Setting

Dotted Autumn Place Setting

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

I love Thanksgiving, this is one time of year that our family gets together to enjoy the company of each other and enjoy the fabulous food prepared by many. We have some excellent cooks in our family, so the food is always great.

Tool Time for this month was all about Thanksgiving and the girls had requested to see some table decor for their tables. I purchased some inexpensive cloth napkins and napkin rings from Wal-Mart, they had so many beautiful colors it was hard to choose. The napkin ring is an very simplistic wooden ring (chocolate chip colored stain), the ring had some holes pierced around the center. In creating the napkin ring accessories and place card I tried to highlight this design, the dots from Three For You worked fabulously.



Project Details
Stamps: Dotted Autumn
Ink: Versamark (heat embossing), More Mustard
Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Old Olive, Really Rust, More Mustard and Very Vanilla
Other: Scalloped Circle Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch, Antique Copper Brads, More Mustard Grosgrain Ribbon, Olive Narrow Organdy Ribbon, Vanilla Wide Organdy Ribbon, Copper Cording
Technique: Curled Ribbon

More Details
Curled Ribbon Technique: To obtain the look of the curled ribbon, carefully heat ribbon slowly with heat tool until ribbon begins to wave or curl. Be extremely careful not to overheat the ribbon. I curled the ribbon after everything was assembled, be careful when using the ribbon and cording combination I used, the cording tends to heat much faster than the ribbon.

Dotted Autumn ~Tool Time

Dotted Autumn
Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

We met Saturday night for the October Holiday Hooha class. We had a great time stamping cards for Thanksgiving. Tool time this month was a lot of fun, I spot lighted the Dotted Autumn stamp set. I love nothing more than taking a stamp set and creating a variety of projects to showcase its versatility. To be honest I did not see the potential of the Dotted Autumn stamp set until I had a chance to play. I originally selected the stamp set because I loved the idea of creating place cards for Thanksgiving place settings... but once I started stamping and creating I discovered the possibilities this set offers. I can't wait to play more with this set.

The ladies participating in the Holiday Hooha class series requested to see some table decor for Thanksgiving.... what fun! Please see individual posts for details about each of the projects.

It's Tool Time!

Batty For You!

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

Tool Time is featured at the start of each of my stamping classes. Tool time is a 10-20 minute presentation showcasing new techniques, project ideas, and product tips using the classes theme. September Hooha was all about Halloween cards, so I decided to show some fun party favors that could be given out at the kid's school parties or your own Halloween party.

I designed the bag (mini gift bags were purchased at Wal-Mart)and favors above to coordinate with the Batty For You card shown here. Unlike the card... the gift bag has a bookmark that slides out of the center (Witching You... a Haunting Halloween piece).

Goodies for the bag include: A glow stick for safe trick-or-treating, some sweet ghosts (I separated some of the Halloween ghost marshmallow treats into individual cello bags), witches brew (not pictured, kool-aid twist top drinks, green), and other sweets.

More Stamping To Come? I apologize for the lack of recent posts but hopefully these will give you some ideas for Halloween fun. I will be hosting another fun Hooha class this weekend... Thanksgiving is our theme. Check back for posts and Thanksgiving fun next week.

Project Details

Stamps: Batty For You, Haunting Halloween

Cardstock: Certainly Celery, Elegant Eggplant, Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Whisper White

Ink: Basic Black Craft, Basic Black Classic

Other: Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder, Celery, Eggplant and Pumpkin Grosgrain Ribbons, Black Dotted Ribbon (May Arts), Scalloped Circle and a 1/3" Circle Punch.

Holiday Hooha... Web Wishes!

Booglie Eyes

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

Booglie Eyes was the last of the featured stamp sets for the Holiday Hooha September class. This card was designed to be all about the heat embossing.... I love this card's simplicity and color combination. All the cards featured for the September Hooha Class are 3" x 6".

Project Details
Stamps: Web Wishes, Booglie Eyes
Cardstock: Basic Black, Almost Amethyst, Whisper White
Ink: Basic Black Craft, Basic Black Classic, Almost Amethyst Stampin Write Marker
Other: Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder, Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Scalloped Circle Punch, 1 3/8" Circle Punch

More Holiday Hooha!

Batty For You!
Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

"Batty For You" was one of the stamp sets featured at the September Holiday Hooha class. I also shared more project ideas using this set during the class' Tool Time presentation (see Tool Time Post for more details and more project ideas that coordinate with this card). The image to the left... is a circle tag that was shown on more than one project (watch for the candy jar coming later this week, I will share project details for this tag and more)

This month's T.T. presentation was all about Halloween and the party favors. The little party favor show above is a kid's memory game. The memory game showcases matching images from the Batty For You set. I stamped the images, punched them out using a 1 3/8" circle punch and mounted them on a punched out black scalloped circles.

Project Details:
Stamp Sets: Batty For You, Haunting Halloween
Cardstock: Basic Black, Elegant Eggplant, Pumpkin Pie, Whisper White, Certainly Celery
Ink: Basic Black Craft, Basic Black Classic
Other: Pumpkin Pie Grosgrain Ribbon, Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder, Scallop Circle Punch