Kyla Maestas ~Sweetwater Designs~

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2008-07-21T10:55:00.002-06:00

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Boatloads of Love

2008-01-25T18:56:00.000-07:00

Boatloads of Love

This stamp set has been available for a while, however it is a recent addition to my stamp set collection. I had a lot of fun with this card... lots of details.

For the main image, I started with two boats, I distressed the edges of the first image using DTP with a Black Stazon pad. I used a bashful blue marker to highlight the outer edges of the image to create a shadow. I applied color to several areas of the main image for more depth. The second image was colored, and cut out. I used a 1/8" handheld punch to punch out the small circles in various areas. I used a Fiskars heart handheld punch to create the stack of hearts inside the boat. For the matting underneath the sentiment I adhered to large ovals together. Finishing touches .... no card of mine is complete without the glitter. This card has lots of silver glittler specs ... and I meant LOTS, I used a fabric glitter spray to achieve this look.

Project Details
Stamps: Smitten, Boatloads of Love, Holidays and Wishes, and Totally Cool
Ink: Whisper White Craft, Basic Black Classic Ink, Black Stazon, Bashful Blue and Real Red Stampin Write Markers
Cardstock: Real Red, Basic Black, Whisper White, Salt and Pepper Patterned Paper from Reminisce
Other: Real Red Grosgrain Ribbon, Basic Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Spotted Ribbon (May Arts), Key Tag Punch, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Heart Punch, 1/8" handheld punch, large oval punch.

You Float My Boat

2008-01-25T17:24:00.000-07:00

You Float My Boat

Tomorrow tonight is the last class in the Holiday Hooha series. I am sad to see the class series coming to an end but I am very excited about the upcoming classes. As I have with each of the previous classes.... I have a fabulous tool time presentation ready to share... but I don't want to spoil the suprise so check back over the weekend for more Valentine themed projects.

Project Details

Stamps: Smitten, Boatloads of Love, Holidays and Wishes, and Totally Cool

Ink: Whisper White Craft, Basic Black Classic Ink, Black Stazon, Bashful Blue and Real Red Stampin Write Markers

Cardstock: Real Red, Basic Black, Whisper White, Salt and Pepper Patterned Paper from Reminisce

Other: Real Red Grosgrain Ribbon, Basic Black Grosgrain Ribbon, Spotted Ribbon (May Arts), Key Tag Punch, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter

Embrace Life

2008-01-17T10:44:00.001-07:00

Embrace Life

I created a card and gift item for my mom to extend to her boss to continue to show her support after the services have commenced. I find in supporting a friend or loved one who has suffered a great loss... it is important to show support for a long period of time. Initially it seems as though there is a great deal of support prior to and shortly following services, but the grieving process is such a lengthy one that it never hurts to find little ways to show your continued support. I thought this card and box of chocolates would be a great gift to leave on the principals desk (my mom works at an elementary school).

Its no Monday, but this Mojo Monday Sketch #20 was just to fabulous to pass up! Absolutely Fabulous Julee, to see the sketch click here. I find myself in anticipation of Monday... I cannot wait to see next week's sketch!

Project Details

Stamps: Embrace Life, Brighter Tomorrow

Cardstock: Very Vanilla, River Rock, Groovy Guava, Ruby Red, Gingerblossom Designer Series Paper

Ink: Timber Stazon, River Rock, Groovy Guava, Ruby Red

Other: Key Tag Punch, Word Window Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch, Misc Ribbon and Cording, Gold Fabric Glitter Spray

More Details: I stamped random flower images with River Rock Classic Ink on the River Rock cardstock for a monochromatic effect. I water colored the flowers and blushed the cardstock with Groovy Guava and a sponge. I used the same images and ribbons to add a little flare to the box of chocolates.

Heartfelt Sympathy

2008-01-16T14:51:00.000-07:00

Heartfelt Sympathy

Mom called today with an unexpected request... a sympathy card. These are my least favorite of all the occasions to send a card. I struggled with ribbon choices at first and then decided to dye the ribbons to match using two different applications.

Project Details
Stamp Set: Embrace Life, Close as a Memory
Cardstock: Groovy Guava, River Rock, Very Vanilla, Gingerblossom Designer Series Paper
Other: Vanilla Grosrain Ribbon (colored with Ruby Red marker), Ivory Organdy Ribbon (sponged with groovy guava classic ink), gold cording, May Arts Organdy Ribbon with gold edging, Gold Fabric Glitter Spray, Giga Circle and Scalloped Punches Marvy Uchida

Gingerbread Man Spa Basket

2007-12-15T10:38:00.000-07:00

Gingerbread Man Spa Basket

When I saw these adorable gift baskets at the store I instantly thought of Tayllar and all her little friends. Little girls love purses... and fun smelling bath stuff, these were perfect! The gift basket had some delicious smelling gingerbread lotions and body washes that I knew the girls would love. I had to add a few ribbons and touches to give it that spa basket feel... I created some paper curls and put under the bath accessories and tied lots of ribbons and bows on all the pieces to dress it up. The little gingerbread man on the right was actually supposed to be a gift card holder... however I created a small Christmas card to slip in there. The entire basket has been sprayed with silver glitter for some extra dazzle.

Yappy Holidays!

2007-12-07T19:32:00.000-07:00

Yappy Holidays!
Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

In wrapping up my holiday shopping, I have yet to pick up something for all the "kids" in our family. My parents and in-laws all have dogs and cats, traditionally at Christmas Kita exchanges gifts with all the other kids in the family, in our family pets are spoiled and treated very much like the children. I thought a fun dog themed holiday card would be a great way to wrap up a pet gift. I have yet to assemble the gift but will hopefully have a chance to upload photos over the weekend once it is complete.

Project Details

Stamps: Happy Everything, Yappy Day, Punch Pals, Holiday Hedgehogs

Ink: Timber Stazon, Creamy Caramel, Purely Pomegranate, Certainly Celery, Close to Cocoa

Cardstock: Rose Red and Certainly Celery Prints Designer Series Paper, Very Vanilla, Rose Red, Certainly Celery

Other: Marvy Uchida Square/ Scalloped Square Giga/Mega Punch, Word Window Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch, Ivory Ribbon with Gold Edging (May Arts), Celery Grosgrain Ribbon, Celery Brads

Simple Pleasures!

2007-12-04T08:05:00.001-07:00

Simple Pleasures

Here is another design inspired by Queen Kat Designs December Newsletter. As I mentioned in the previous posts I will be featuring dog (maybe a few cat shhh don't tell kita) themed cards all week so be sure to check back for more.

Your Turn!! These sketches have been so much fun... I hope you get a chance to play! If you create something using either of these sketches be sure to come back and post a link so we can see your fabulous creations.

To visit Queen Kat Designs... click here.

Project Details

Stamps: Yappy Day!
Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, River Rock, Very Vanilla, Soft Sky, Rose Red and Certainly Celery Prints Designer Series Paper
Ink: Timber Stazon, River Rock, Creamy Caramel and Close to Cocoa
Other: Slit Punch, 1/4' Circle Punch, Small Oval Punch, Rose Red Brads, Marvy Uchida Giga Scalloped Oval and Mega Oval Punches, Pomegranate and Soft Sky Double Stitched Ribbon.

More Card Details
Using some Certainly Celery Prints Designer Series Paper I cut out a piece to create some grass around the hydrant. I cut out small drops using Soft Sky cardstock and created a "Puddle" using the small oval punch. Card is 4"x4"

Who Let the Dogs Out!

2007-12-04T07:24:00.000-07:00

It's my dog's birthday this week! We don't know exactly when she was born aside from the month of December... so we just pick a week and celebrate. Kita has been such an amazing pet.. I could not imagine life without her. She is a black lab and greyhound mix... we adopted her from our local pet shelter about 6.5 years ago. She is such a mild mannered and well behaved dog... a little crazy at times but its to be expected . She loves "babies" like most little girls, she totes them all over the house... and sleeps with them too. In honor of her birthday, I will be posting doggie themed cards with my new stamp set... Yappy Day!

Today's cards were inspired by a newsletter I received in my email last night... from Queen Kat Designs. I have no idea how I got on the mailing list but I was tickled to see the sketches so I decided to give them a try. I have tried to find a link to the sketches online and have not been successful... I need to contact the writer and see if I can get some better links and information on how to find more of her fun sketches. There were 3 sketches featured in her December Newsletter.... to visit her blog, click here.

Project Details

Stamps: Yappy Day

Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Soft Sky, Very Vanilla, River Rock, Certainly Celery Rose Red and Soft Sky Prints Designer Series Paper

Ink: Timber Stazon, Close to Cocoa Creamy Caramel Stampin Write Markers

Other: Marvy Uchida Scalloped Giga Punch, Marvy Uchida Mega Circle Punch, Word Window Punch (SU), Pomegranate Double Stitched Ribbon, Celery Grosgrain Ribbon, 1 3/8" Circle Punch

More Card Details

The card is 4"x4". I punched out the circles to create the background paper using the 1 3/8" circle punch and various colors of Prints Designer Series Paper. Dog bones were then stamped over the patterned paper using Timber Brown Stazon.

Perfect Presentation

2007-11-26T17:13:00.000-07:00

Perfect Presentation

This is a fairly new stamp set for me, first time using it. I used some ribbon and scrapbook paper I picked up at the scrapbook store from my Black Friday shopping spree. The scrapbook paper is "frosty frame up" from Reminisce. I love their pagers for scrapbooking, and even more excited about how fabulous this paper works for cards.with. I love the color combination on this particular piece of paper, I wouldn't have thought of these colors for a Christmas card but I am lovin' it, the fact that it matches well with the SU colors is another fun bonus.

Project Details

Stamps: Perfect Presentation

Ink: Chocolate Chip, Blue Bayou, Old Olive, Real Red

Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Real Red, Old Olive, Whisper White, Frosty Frame Up from Reminisce

Other: Red Grosgrain Ribbon (SU), Soft Sky double stitched ribbon (SU), Olive Organdy Ribbon (American Crafts), Misc Brads, Word Window Punch, 1/4" circle punch.

To Grandmother's House We Go!!

2007-11-22T09:19:00.001-07:00

Just for Grandma!
Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

I decided, at the last minute, to create a card for Grandma. Thanksgiving dinner is something she and I take turns hosting and work together to make a fabulous family tradition. Last year she was deathly ill and we did not have the opportunity to get together, I am so blessed and thankful to be able to share today with her.

Project Details

Stamps: Thankful Season

Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Really Rust, Very Vanilla, Always Artichoke

Ink: Too many to count :)

Other: Marvy Uchida Giga Punches, Large Oval Punch (SU), Olive and Mustard Grosgrain Ribbon, Copper Cording, White Glitter (unknown)

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2007-11-21T16:51:00.001-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!
Images © 1990-2007 Stampin' Up!

We are going to my grandparents house for Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow afternoon. I made a special coconut cream pie for my grandpa. I wanted to dress up the pie, gift style. I used a store purchased graham cracker crust... I removed the store lable and covered it with cardstock, designer paper, ribbons etc and then adhered it to the top of the pie cover... and a card to match.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!!

For those of you traveling... travel safely.

Project Details

Stamps: Holidays and Wishes

Cardstock: Four Seasons Designer Series Paper, Bravo Burgundy, Sahara Sand

Other: Burgundy Organdy Ribbon, Cream Organdy Ribbon (May Arts), Gold Cording, Key Tag Punch, Vintage Brads (SU)

Today's Designer Challenge.... Only Words

2007-11-20T07:20:00.000-07:00

Designer Challenge.... Only Words!!

I created this card to match the gift set shown here. I elected not to use any images in designing this beautiful gift set Designing a card to match was not easy, I seldom create anything that doesn't have more than words.

This brings me to Today's Designer Challenge... create a holiday themed card using only words. You can see in the card above I used a very softly patterned designer paper but aside from that there aren't really any images other than the sentiment. What can you do with only words? Please be sure to post a link to show us where we can find your card!! When posting your challenge cards on your blogs and galleries, please link back to the original challenge so others can play along too.

Gift Makeover... for the Teachers!

2007-11-20T06:46:00.000-07:00

Gift Set Make Over

As some of you already know... I am a total Flybaby! I don't know where I would be without the Holiday Cruising Missions, definitely not ready for Christmas by December 1st (this was my goal). My Christmas shopping is winding down with only a few gifts to purchase to complete ALL of my holiday shopping, I am so excited to have everything done early.

In planning for holiday shopping, I always include a little something for the kid's teachers. This year I picked out this little lotion set shown above. I removed the shrink wrap packaging and began looking for ways to spice this up..... to turn a lotion set into a pamper yourself spa set. I love all the varieties of lotions etc that you can get around this time of year.... but I hate the gift packaging.

I began by looking at each of the pieces individually. I tied various pieces of ribbon around each piece and added "a gift for you" tag to the shower gel. I took a piece of Purely Pomegranate Designer Series Paper and cut it to fit the front panel of the tin, added some layers of paper.. faux paper piercing... and a cute little "Merry Christmas" tag. After putting all the accessorised products back in the packaging I realized that it needed a pretty bow around the tin to balance all the fun ribbons up top... I used the Satin Ribbon from Stampin' Up! with some scraps of Chocolate Chip Grosgrain, silver cording and some organdy ribbon from May Arts.

Everything was starting to come together but it was still missing something... I kept the card board insert because I liked the presentation but you could see some of the white cardboard despite all the ribbon. I created some paper filling using my Table Top Cutter and a few scraps of the designer paper... I cut thin strips and curled them around a pencil.

Final Touches... I used some left over Halloween body glitter over the entire package to add a little glitz and dazzle. I am tickled with the way this project turned out, so tickled in fact that I have decided to make one for myself :)

The coordinating card is not as stunning as the gift... but coordinates using the same designer paper as the tin, the same tag and ribbon (body glitter too). I was surprised at how cute the card turned out using only words and no stamped images (see today's challenge). As much as I love the way this one turned out I think I will spice up the other two with a different look for each.... one down... two to go!

Project Details

Stamps: Holidays and Wishes

Cardstock: Rose Red Designer Paper, Chocolate Chip, Very Vanilla

Ink: Purely Pomegranate and Chocolate Chip

Other: Scalloped Circle Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch, Key Tag Punch, Spotted Organdy Ribbon (May Arts), Satin Ribbon (SU), Silver and Chocolate Grosgrain Ribbon (SU), Silver Cording (SU)

Holiday Hedgehogs.... Be Merry!

2007-11-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

Be Merry

I love creating cards with sketches, but it has been a while since I created anything. This card was designed based on SC#150, for more details about this sketch click here. To see what others have created using this sketch, visit the gallery by clicking here.

Project Details

Stamps: Lovely as a Tree, Warm Words, Holiday Hedgehogs, Background Basics
Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Mellow Moss, Real Red, Whisper White
Ink: Chocolate Chip, Creamy Caramel, Close to Cocoa, Mellow Moss, Real Red, Whisper White and Bordering Blue
Other: White spotted Organdy Ribbon (May Arts), Silver Cording, White Glitter (unknown), Silver Brads, 1/4" circle punch and Large Oval Punch.

More Project Details

To create the background paper I stamped the holly from Background Basics and then colored in the images with marker. The hedgehogs were stamped and colored on a scrap of paper, cut out and popped up in front of the trees

Holiday Hedgehogs.. Skaters Pond

2007-11-18T16:16:00.000-07:00

Holiday Hedgehogs

I borrowed this set from a very good friend of mine, I loved this set but decided not to keep it when it retired. (Now having second thoughts) I love the skating hedgehog and wanted to create a pond for him to skate on. My mom loves the Lovely as a Tree stamp set and hates that we don't use it more than we do for stamping... so mom... here ya go :).

I am doing one of a kind Christmas cards this year for all of my family and friends so check back for more holiday fun.

Project Details

Stamps: Lovely as a Tree, Punch Pals, Holiday Hedgehogs, Background Basics

Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Mellow Moss, Real Red, Whisper White

Ink: Chocolate Chip, Creamy Caramel, Close to Cocoa, Mellow Moss, Real Red and Bordering Blue

Other: Red Grosgrain Ribbon, White spotted Organdy Ribbon (May Arts), Silver Cording, White Glitter (unknown), Silver Brads, Giga Scalloped Circle and Circle punch (Marvy Uchida), 1/4" circle punch.

Martha Stewart Christmas Wreath

2007-11-16T08:46:00.000-07:00

My Martha Stewart Christmas Wreath

I have already begun decorating for the holidays... my husband could just die lol, he thought having a tree up and decorated the day after Thanksgiving was bad. The tree has been up for a week already, mostly because I wanted to have some holiday decorations up for the Holiday Hooha class last weekend.

In searching for the prefect holiday decorations, I stumbled upon some beautiful decorations at our local Kmart. I have had a Martha Stewart Victorian tree for years, but my bows were starting to show their age so I decided to replace them... keeping the same beautiful gold color scheme. I also wanted a matching wreath for my front door... but found nothing that I liked. So I decided to make something myself, my mom and I had a blast playing and creating.

So I bought this Martha Stewart wreath...... we pulled off the bow and left everything else on the wreath.

I purchased it because of its simplicity... it was definitely something mom and I could work with, I loved the faux snow tipped sprigs. We then proceeded to purchase some of the glittered shatter proof bulbs to match those we had purchased for the tree... some matching ribbons, some very glitzy swirly twigs and went home to create a wreath.

Here is what we came up with.. I am so excited about how it turned out. We had so much fun that we created a matching garland. Everything used to create this wreath is Martha Stewart and was found at Kmart.

Retired Stamp Set Sale... Updated!!

2007-11-07T15:25:00.000-07:00

Updated list of retired stamp sets... Alphabetically listed (ty ty Gina). This will make shopping and updates so much faster.

A Little Love $ 8.00
A Quiet Life $17.00
All I Have Seen $8.00
All Mixed Up $25.00 New UM
All Natural $10.00
All the Best $15.00
Aloha $23.00
Along the Same Lines $16.00
Alphabet Soup $8.00
Alphabuilders
Artifacts $18.00
Baby Talk $18.00
Because Of You $13.00
Big Blossom $8.00
Bitty Blossoms $12.00
Bold Butterlfy $23.00
Buds and Blossoms $15.00
Buggies and Booties $15.00
Burst Into Bloom $5.00
Business Boosters $10.00
Buttons Bows and Twinkletoes $23.oo
By Definition $ 12.00
Celebrate in Style $15.00
Cool Cat $10.00
Crazy Numbers $13.00
Cute as a Bug $11.00
Delight in Life $ 8.00
Dots and Daisies $12.00
Faith and Hope $15.00
Fall Whimsy $9.00
Favorite Teddy Bear $24.00
Festive Four $5.00
Fishy Friends $15.00
Fresh Fruits $22.00
Friend are Like Flowers $14.00
Frolicking Frogs $22.00
Fun Filled $8.00
Garden Collage $8.00
Happy Harmony $8.00 partially mounted
Haunts and Howls $25.00
I'm Here $20.00
In the Wild $15.00
Island Blossoms $23.00
Its a Party $15.00
Just Beakause (never been used, mounted) $20.00
Just For Fun $$16.00
Just Jeans $12.00
Ladybug Picnic $18.00
Laundry Notes $17.00
Laundry Notes (UM) $19.00
Lexicon of Love $8.00
Little Hellos $10.00
Little Layers $13.00
Little Layers II $12.00
Little Shapes $3.00
Love Without End $13.00
Love Ya Bunches $8.00
Loving Hearts $15.00
Merry $16.00
Mixed Bouquet $24.00
Mon Ami $11.00
Natural Beauty $16.00
Nature's Secret $24.00
Nice and Narrow $15.00 (small circle missing)
Occasionally $10.00
Oh, My Word $15.00
Olive You $12.00
On Gossamer Wings $24.00
Paris in Spring $20.00
Petal Prints $23.00
Petal Pushers $20.00
Phrase Starters II $15.00
Play on Words $14.00
Polka-Dot Posies $15.00
Power Up $16.00 never been used, mounted
Pretty Princess $15.00
Quick and Cute $10.00
Send a Celebration $8.00
Sew Seasonal $18.00
Shapes and Shadows $22.00
Sheltering Tree $16.00
Simple Sayings $12.00
Simple Shapes $14.00
Sketch an Event $12.00
Smorgasborders $8.00
Soft Swirls $12.00
Sparkling Summer $20.00
Sparling Season $15.00
Spring Fling $5.00
Spring Garden $15.00
Sweet of You $14.00
Sweet On You $7.00
Tags so Much $10.00
The World Over mounted, use once $12.00 (specify mounted when purchasing)
Tiny Talk $6.00
Totally Cool $15.00 *missing corner stamp
Toucan of My Love $16.00
Toy Box $25.00 1 stamp used one time
Travel Time $24.00
Trick or Treat $5.00
Very Punny $10.00 Beth
Winged Things $18.00
Wising You the Best $6.00
Wonderful Words II $15.00
Word Play $20.00 (includes coordinating wheel confetti)

Blowout Shipments Update!!

2007-11-07T14:50:00.000-07:00

This post includes the most recently updated information as of 11/07 for shipments. Please email me with any questions you have, kylamaestas@msn.com . Please post or email when your products arrive.

To track your package please visit http://www.usps.com/ and refer to the delivery confirmation number found below.

Shipment 10/30
Karen Quattlebaum #03071790000154452901
Bobbie L #03071790000154452918
Cathrine A #03071790000154452932
Luella N #03071790000154452949
Diana G #03071790000154459894
Nicole G #03071790000154452925 (insurance ref # 13072390000005783893)*

Shipment 11/07
Linda G # 03061070000371022295
Sue Ann F # 03061070000371022288
MaryAnn M # 03061070000371022271
Becky E (UPS) # 1Z64W3126869599236

Shipment 11/08

Jen (shipped please check email)
Donna (shipped please check email)
Odile # 1Z64W3126869718008 (UPS)
Amanda # 1Z64W3126803050272 (UPS)
Marianna # 03061070000371023070

If your paypal payment has cleared and your name is not on the list above, please do not panic. My life has been absolutely crazy the last few days, although I have been unable to post, shipments continue to go out. Please email me if you have any questions. Thanks!!

Wondrous Gift of Gold

2007-11-02T15:26:00.000-06:00

Wondrous Gift of Gold

I received some new organdy ribbon in the mail and couldn't wait the play. The organdy ribbon has a beautiful metallic gold on the outer edge of the ribbon, so pretty. The ornaments for the tree are 1/4" circles, I used the end of a q-tip to put a small amount of Encore! gold ink and then sprinkled Iridescent Ice embossing powder over the top and heat set. I also used the Encore! ink and embossing powder for the sentiment.

Project Details

Stamps: Wondrous Gifts, Many Merry Messages

Ink: Versmark, Encore! Gold

Cardstock: Very Vanilla, Mellow Moss, Bravo Burgundy

Other: Organdy Ribbon (May Arts), Vanilla Grosgrain Ribbon, Burgundy Grosgrain Ribbon, Gold Embossing Powder, Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder

Technique: Curled Paper Ribbons

Technique Tip: To create the curled paper ribbons, cut cardstock in 1 centimeter strips. Gently tie a knot or bow being careful not to tear the cardstock. Wrap the ends around a small round object (I use the paper piercing tool for my small ribbon curls, curled around the tip), pinch cardstock carefully around the object to secure the shape, and carefully release the paper.

Wondrous Gift!

2007-11-02T15:12:00.000-06:00

Wondrous Gifts

This is one of the first stamp sets to make my wish list after the release of the new Fall and Winter Collection. I thought it would make the most elegant Christmas Cards. It also happens to be one of the featured sets for the Holiday Hooha class. I created an elegant card for the class and then another variation with all the trimmings.

Project Details

Stamps: Many Merry Messages, Wondrous Gift

Cardstock: Very Vanilla, Blue Bayou, Soft Sky

Ink: Versmark, Blue Bayou, Whisper White Craft

Other: Silver Brads, 1/4" Circle Punch, Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder, Ivory Narrow Organdy Ribbon, Vanilla Grosgrain Ribbon, Silver Cording. liquid applique (snow)

Technique: Heat Embossing with Classic Ink

Technique Tip: To emboss with classic ink, begin by inking stamp with versamark ink, for best results you want a think layer of versmark. Then in the stamp with classic ink. Heat set as you normally would. You can re-ink with just classic ink several times before having to re-apply versamark.

Festive Favorites... All Decked Out!

2007-11-02T15:05:00.001-06:00

All Decked Out for the Holidays

I had so much fun playing with the Festive Favorites stamp set that I decided to include a few more layers and extras. I added a few extra snowmen, some paper curly ribbons and some extra liquid applique for snow. This card is definitely more my style, keeping it simple is something I have a hard time with... this seems more like me (lots of details and lost of glitter).

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 Pomegranate Double Stitched Ribbon, Black and White Polka-dot Ribbon (May Arts), 1/4" Circle Punch, Liquid Applique, Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder.

Tag-A-Palooza Craze!

2007-11-01T07:51:00.000-06:00

Tag-A-Palooza Craze!!

Here are some of the sample tags that I created when designing the Tag-A-Palooza class. In creating this class I wanted to give my customers a few ways to participate.. there are 3 different ways to play (just make tags, tags and a punch, or the whole tag-a-palooza including tags, punch and a stamp set). The girls registering for the whole Tag-A-Palooza will be invited to my home a few minutes before the start of class to create 2 of the tags shown above.... I haven't picked the two tags yet... cause they are all too stinkin' cute.

Add your two cents!! Which two tags would you like to make if you were attending?

Off to the Hospital: My son is having surgery today, so I am off to the hospital in a few minutes. I would like to take a second to thank all of you who have sent emails... thoughts... and prayers. They are greatly appreciated.

More To Come! I am hoping to find some stamping time this evening or tomorrow to continue planning cards for the Holiday Hooha class. Check back for more fun and stamping... and thanks for stopping by!

Project Details

Stamps: 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), White 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)

Happy Halloween!!

2007-10-31T15:54:00.000-06:00

Happy Halloween

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

2007-10-30T16:17:00.000-06:00

Many Magical Moments

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

2007-10-30T12:35:00.000-06:00

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

2007-10-27T17:23:00.000-06:00

Tag Organizer

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~

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!!

2007-10-27T15:49:00.000-06:00

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!!

2007-10-26T08:50:00.000-06:00

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

2007-10-26T08:27:00.000-06:00

Punch Pals Craze

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

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

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

2007-10-26T06:15:00.000-06:00

Snowman Fun

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

2007-10-25T11:34:00.000-06:00

Let It Snow!

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

2007-10-25T07:38:00.000-06:00

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

2007-10-23T14:01:00.001-06:00

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

2007-10-23T11:26:00.000-06:00

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!!

2007-10-23T10:40:00.001-06:00

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!!

2007-10-23T10:24:00.000-06:00

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

2007-10-23T09:37:00.000-06:00

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!!

2007-10-18T15:33:00.000-06:00

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...

2007-10-18T07:47:00.000-06:00

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

2007-10-18T07:23:00.000-06:00

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

2007-10-18T07:08:00.000-06:00

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

2007-10-18T06:54:00.000-06:00

Grateful Greetings

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

2007-10-17T21:53:00.000-06:00

Forever Grateful

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

2007-10-17T17:34:00.000-06:00

Dotted Autumn ~ Grateful Greetings

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

2007-10-17T16:53:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving Blessing Mix

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

2007-10-17T16:36:00.000-06:00

Dotted Autumn Place Setting

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

2007-10-17T16:24:00.000-06:00

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!

2007-10-08T04:18:00.000-06:00

Batty For You!

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!

2007-10-08T04:11:00.001-06:00

Booglie Eyes

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!

2007-10-08T03:49:00.000-06:00

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

Witching You.... Halloween Fun!

2007-09-18T06:47:00.000-06:00

Witching You.... a Haunting Halloween

This is one of the cards created for the Holiday Hooha series. The girls each purchased a new stamp set and then created 20 cards of a single design. This card was created using the set . If you are a demonstrator and have emailed me for the class details I appreciate your patience, I will be sending out a mass email today with all of the details.

More to come... there were 2 other stamp sets featured at the hooha class and a tool time presentation as well that I am hoping to upload this week, be sure to check back for more projects and ideas with a Halloween theme.

Project Details
Stamp Set: Haunting Halloween, Three for You
Cardstock: Elegant Eggplant, Basic Black, Pumpkin Pie, Certainly Celery, Whisper White
Ink: Basic Black Craft Pad, Very Vanilla Craft Pad, Basic Black Classic Ink, Elegant Eggplant Re-inker, Sahara Sand Re-inker, Certainly Celery Re-inker and Pumpkin Pie Re-inker
Other: Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Key tag Punch, Large Oval Punch, Spiral Punch, Silver Brads

Techniques: Heat Embossing with Craft Ink, Faux Bleach

More Project Details
Using the dots from Three For You, stamp a row of dots in Basic Black Craft ink along the top and bottom of card. Heat emboss with iridescent ice embossing powder. Repeat this step for the main image of the card as well. On the card itself.... stamp a random star pattern with vanilla craft ink, allow to set for 10-12 sec and then blot off leaving a faded image behind (faux bleach technique). The main image was watercolored using colors as mentioned above, after image dried more dazzling diamonds glitter was added to the hat and cape.

Halloween Fun Coming Soon!

2007-09-13T07:28:00.000-06:00

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays, truthfully there really isn't a holiday that I dislike but Halloween is definitely in the top picks. I am attempting to create more hand stamped home decor to compliment some of our existing Halloween decorations. I have also put together several Halloween cards and hope to post them this week, they were featured in my Holiday Hooha class series. If you are a demonstrator and would like more information about the Holiday Hooha class series, please email me at kylamaestas@msn.com I would be happy to share the class format with you.

Check back throughout the week for some spooktacular fun!

More... Three For You!

2007-08-13T07:47:00.000-06:00

Thinking Of You!

I cannot believe that summer is nearly over. We took the kids school shopping this weekend, and it really brought into reality how little of summer is left.... I am honestly looking forward to cooler temperatures and the beautiful colors of fall. I have also finally completed the last Harry Potter book, amazing!! I am sad to see the series completed. Enough rambling for now, just thought I would share a little of what we have been up to over the last week.

I am finally partially excited to be stamping this weekend (it seems I am getting my mojo back in small proportions lol). I have a party scheduled for Thursday night for a dear friend of mine, many of my closest stamping friends will be attending. I have a progressive scrapbook page to create and several projects to share with them. I am using a camping theme with the Happy Camper set... be sure to check back throughout the week for more fun and ideas.

Project Details
Stamps: Three For You
Cardstock: Basic Black, Whisper White, Soft Sky, Groovy Guava
Ink: Basic Black
Other: Black Grosgrain Ribbon, 1 3/8" and 1 1/4" Circle Punches, 1/4" Circle Punch

Three For You!

2007-08-06T08:09:00.000-06:00

Three For You!

This is the first card I designed with the Three For You Punch Box. I pre-ordered this set back in June and created this card, just haven't had a chance to post it yet. Enjoy!

Project Details

Stamps: Three For You Punch Box

Cardstock: Purely Pomegranate, Groovy Guava, Soft Sky, Mellow Moss

Ink: Purely Pomegranate, Groovy Guava, Soft Sky

Other: Organdy Ribbon (May Arts), White Gel Pen, 1/4" Circle Punch, Cuttlebug, 1 3/8" and 1 1/4" Circle Punches

Just For You Box!

2007-08-06T07:52:00.000-06:00

Just For You!

Photo by Angie Tieman

This is one of my 3D designs for this year's Convention Display Boards. I normally do not create a lot of 3D items but must admit that this is one of my favorite patterns. This pattern comes from the Stampin' Up! Pattern Library (Boxes).

Project Details

Stamps: Build a Flower, Fundamental Phrases

Cardstock: So Saffron, Whisper White, Rose Red Prints Designer Series Paper

Ink: So Saffron

Other: Rose Red Brads, Word Window Punch, Apricot Grosgrain Ribbon, White Organdy Ribbon, and Silver Cording

More Details: I assembled the box first using only So Saffron cardstock, after the box was assembled I cut small pieces of designer cardstock for a box belly band, as well as pieces to decorate the interior of the box. The interior decoration really adds a lot to this project, and also hides all of the folds etc.

Which One Is It Contest... Winner

2007-08-06T07:47:00.001-06:00

Which One Is It?

And the Winner Is......

It must be true, there were so many that guessed correctly. B4 with the boots is the card I created. I am hoping to find a copy of this card so I can post it later on in the week. Congratulations to everyone who guessed correctly, you definitely have an eye for spotting my style.

Here is your winner: Please email me at kylamaestas@msn.com to redeem your prize!

olse0231 said...
I would have to guess B4, although I'm really not sure! I'm really glad to see you back and blogging by the way - I had missed all of your beautiful creations!! :)

What City Does "Vitality" Belong In?

2007-08-04T10:31:00.000-06:00

I saw this adorable test on my dear friend Gina Pacheco's website and thought it would be an interesting test to take. Here are the results, what fun I especially love the cappuccino in hand, what city do you belong in?

You Belong in Rome

You're a big city soul with a small town heart
Which is why you're attracted to the romance of Rome
Strolling down picture perfect streets, cappuccino in hand
And gorgeous Italian people - could life get any better?

What City Do You Belong In?

Kyla's Color Challenge #1

2007-08-04T07:40:00.001-06:00

I will be hosting a weekend color challenge. Playing is as easy: Stop by to check out the challenge, stamp, and then post a reply to the main thread with a link to where your image can be found. When sharing your creations for the color challenge on your blogs and galleries, please include Kyla's Color Challenge and a link to the original challenge to help increase participation! If you have a favorite color scheme that you would like to share, please email me kylamaestas@msn.com... your colors and card could be featured in an upcoming challenge.

Each week I will select a favorite of all the cards posted, the winner will receive the card I created for the challenge. New Color Challenges will be posted on the weekends, and a winner announced on the upcoming Friday. To see this week's Inspiration for Color... click here.

This Week's Colors: Real Red, Certainly Celery, Blue Bayou, Bashful Blue

Thinking Of You!

2007-08-04T07:25:00.000-06:00

Thinking Of You!

This is the second project from last night's Stamp-A-Stack and seemed to be the hardest card of the night to my surprise (I thought #3 was harder). Some of the girls experienced some difficulty with the background stamp from Looks Like Spring... but I think they cards turned out great. Everyone seemed to like the projects. Enjoy!

Project Details

Stamps: Looks Like Spring, Three For You Punch Box, All Through the Year

Cardstock: Blue Bayou, Bashful Blue, Real Red, Whisper White, and Certainly Celery

Ink: Certainly Celery, Real Red, and Blue Bayou

Other: Real Red Grosgrain Ribbon, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter

More Details: I saw the strawberry idea at Convention a few years ago and instantly fell in love with the idea... using the heart and flower from All Through the Year, the heart becomes the base of the strawberry and half of a daisy becomes the green top. Nancy, one of my customers, had a very creative idea last night... she wanted spots for her strawberry (don't ask me how I missed this detail LOL, I mean really what is a strawberry without spots) but anyway we ended up using black microbeads to add a few spots. (Great Idea Nancy :)

More Convention Display Board Fun!

2007-08-04T07:13:00.000-06:00

Build-A-Flower!!
Photo by Angie Tieman

Designing with this set was a lot of fun. I created the first and second card from left to right, as well as the small gift box in the bottom left hand corner.

Project Details:
Stamps: Build-A-Flower
Cardstock: So Saffron, Lovely Lilac and Rose Red Prints Designer Series Paper
Ink: Basic Black
Other: Apricot Grosgrain Ribbon, White Organdy Ribbon

Congrats!

Project Details:
Stamps: Build-A-Flower, Fundamental Phrases
Cardstock: Whisper White, So Saffron, Lovely Lilac and Rose Red Prints Designer Series Paper
Ink: Basic Black
Other: Rose Red Brads, Large Oval Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch, Apricot Grosgrain Ribbon, White Organdy Ribbon

Congrats Gift Box!

Project Details:
Stamps: Build-A-Flower, Fundamental Phrases
Cardstock: Whisper White, So Saffron, Lovely Lilac and Rose Red Prints Designer Series Paper Ink: Basic Black
Other: Rose Red Brads, Large Oval Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch, Apricot Grosgrain Ribbon, White Organdy Ribbon

Artfully Asian "Thank You"

2007-08-03T09:59:00.000-06:00

Teaching classes is my favorite part of being a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator. Tonight I am hosting a Stamp-A-Stack at my house, the girls will be creating 3 each of 3 different designs. I am excited to see what the girls think of tonight's projects.

Here is one of the cards we are creating, check back throughout the weekend to see the other remaining projects.

Project Details:

Stamps: Artfully Asian

Cardstock: Basic Black, Regal Rose, Whisper White

Ink: Basic Black Classic, Whisper White Craft, Regal Rose and Certainly Celery Stampin' Write Markers.

Other: Paper Crimper, Cutter Tool Kit, Large Oval Punch, Black Organdy Ribbon

Technique: Faux Stitching, Paper Lantern

First Day of School!

2007-08-02T06:52:00.000-06:00

First Day of School!

Photo by Angie Tieman

More fun Convention Display Stamper projects! I have enjoyed viewing all the displays from this year's Convention Display Stampers.... lots of fun and amazing projects, so much talent. Today's post is about the little 6x6 in the bottom left hand corner, another fun creation using Build-A-Flower.

Project Details:

Stamps: Build-A-Flower

Cardstock: Rose Red, Whisper White, Rose Red Prints Designer Series Paper

Ink: Rose Red Stampin' Write Marker

Other: Rose Red Brads, 1/2" Circle Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch

Which One Is It? Contest

2007-08-02T06:35:00.001-06:00

Which One Is It?

Photo by Unknown

In checking out more photos of the Stampin Up! Convention displays, I discovered an old classic of mine. I created this card 2 years ago for a contest that Stampin' Up! was hosting. Can you guess which card is mine?

Contest Details:
When selecting the card you think was most likely created by me several years ago, use the following coordinates to explain the card you have selected. The first horizontal row above the top is labeled left to right with numbers 1-6. The first row running vertically down the side is labeled A-D. There will be one guess per person. First person to guess the card correctly wins a $10.00 gift certificate toward any item in the new Stampin' Up! Catalog.

Posting Your Guess: Please include the coordinates of the card and the reason you think it was created by me. My friends and family are always telling me that they can spot my work from 100 paces, even after all these years because there is something about the way I stamp.... I guess we will see if they are right. Best of Luck... the winner will be announced on Sunday!!

A Few Hints:
*My card is not one of the cut off cards shown at the bottom of what would be row E.

*My abilities as a stamper have changed a lot over the years, but most dramatically over the last two years.

*This card was featured on the Stamper's Showcase shortly after being submitted.

* I LOVE techniques, a lot of my current work doesn't reflect my passion for off the wall techniques but this may not be the case with this card.

Swim Little Fish!

2007-08-01T16:01:00.000-06:00

Swim Little Fish!

photo by Angie Tieman

Designing projects for this year's Stampin' Up! Convention was a lot of fun and a great challenge. I received items that I probably would not have picked for myself, it was a lot of fun to experiment with something a little outside my comfort zone. Build-A-Flower was one of the main sets I created projects with, I have never been a fan of die-cuts or stickers so this was an awesome challenge. After playing and completing all my projects for the display boards, I was sad to see that I didn't have anything leftovers to play with, I can now say..... Build-A-Flower ROcKs and I will be ordering replacement pieces to continue the fun very soon!!

Project Details:

Stamps: Letterpress Alphabet Set

Cardstock: Bashful Blue, Summer Sun, Pink Passion, Whisper White

Ink: Pink Passion Classic Ink and Stampin Write Marker, Whisper White Craft Ink

Other: Build-A-Flower, Spiral Punch, 1/4" Circle Punch

More Details: I started with the Cutter Tool Kit and Whisper White Craft Ink, using the faux stitching technique I created lines resembling waves across the top and bottom of the Pink Passion and Bashful Blue cardstock. Using the 1/4" circle punch I punched out little pieces of Pink Passion Cardstock and adhered them to the large flower using snail adhesive.

Thanks Angie for allowing me to share your photographs. If you would like more information on where to find Angie and her adorable projects visit her blog by clicking here. You can also find a link to her site in My Favorites!

Train Ride At the Zoo

2007-07-31T10:48:00.000-06:00

Isn't She Adorable!!

photo by Stephanie Luman (Thank you!!)

Not attending this year's Convention in Denver was a huge mistake, I have heard reports about all the fun and excitement taking place. I have been following all the convention threads on splitcoaststampers and wishing I had gone, even if I didn't go to stamp lol.

Several demonstrators have been gracious enough to post photos of the display boards, I was excited to see some of my submissions on display from earlier this year. Thanks to two of these lovely demonstrators I will be able to share some of these projects with you (please see photo credits). The hardest part of creating all these fabulous projects, was keeping them a secret lol! Check back, I will posting a few each day over the course of the next week.

Project Details
I created this layout in February of 2006 as part of my submssion for the Artisian Award. I am giving a list of materials by memory, hopefully I get them all, I did not even make one of these for me to keep lol!

Stamps: Letterpress Alphabet, Warm Words
Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Regal Rose, Pretty in Pink, Very Vanilla, Au Chocolat Designer Series Paper.
Ink: Certainly Celery, Regal Rose and Pretty in Pink Stampin' Write Markers, Chocolate Chip Classic Ink
Other: Pretty in Pink Brads, large oval punch

More Details: I colored the Au Chocolate Designer Series paper with Certainly Celery, Regal Rose, and Pretty in Pink Stampin' Write Markers. Using a sponge dauber and Chocolate Chip Classic, I rubbed ink over the top of all the colored areas. I am a huge fan of AMM paper, when coming up with this idea for altering paper I was wishing we had designs similar to theirs...... and then I decided to try something new and make our paper look like theirs lol. I distressed the edges of all the cardstock using the same method.

As you can see from the photograph above, I decided to do some hidden journaling. Each of the journaling pieces has a brad to allow it to only slide partially under the picture. In addition the piece that has been pulled out, you will see two more journaling tabs at the bottom of the page.

I used each of the Warm Word Sentiments to coordinate with the journaling. You can read the journaling below for more details.

Adorable- Her face says it all. She has the most vivid facial expressions, you can always tell exactly how she is feeling by the look on her face... the train ride was the last thing on our agenda at the zoo, after a great train ride going home was not exactly what Tayllar had in mind. Tayllar absolutely loves the zoo. Creating this scrapbook page almost 6 years later I can tell you that her love for the zoo hasn’t changed a bit... we visit the zoo every year in the spring. Even though some of the same animals have been there throughout the years, it is still as exciting as the first time.
The last few years have been even more exciting as they update exhibits, Tayllar was very excited to see all the new changes. Her favorite thing at the zoo continues to be the train ride, no matter how many times we ride it.

Sparkle- No matter what Tayllar is feeling she always has a special sparkle about her eyes... she was so excited to ride the train and see the animals at the zoo.

Giggle- Tayllar was anxiously awaiting her turn for a train ride. We tried to talk her into visiting the gift shop before the train ride... she wouldn’t have it, she was going to “sit here” and wait for the train. She giggled every time she heard the train whistle blow.

Cards for Troops Update!

2007-07-31T10:38:00.000-06:00

I wanted to apologize for the delay in getting the contest completed. There are several reasons for the delay, here are some updates. All of the cards are here and absolutely beautiful!! Everyone did an amazing job with their projects. I am still waiting on one of our judges to send in her donated gift certificate and card prizes for the contestants, I know it has been a while but most of the judges selected are designers for various design teams and companies and are very busy. I appreciate your patience as we wait for the last and final elements to come together. I do not want to roll without this last judge because her work is amazing and I know her cards will be well worth the wait.

Starting next week I will be displaying some of the donated cards from the contest and will hopefully have the winners to announce very soon. Thank you to each of you who donated, all of the cards are beautiful. I am hoping to get the contest wrapped up in the next week or two and these cards sent off to the troops. Thanks again to all those who participated.... and thank you for your patience. After hosting an event like this I would do a few things with dates differently, it takes a lot of time to coordinate.... I did not allow for the time delays :). Hopefully the next one will go much smoother with all I have learned, I would love to bless our troops with some Christmas and Holiday themed cards to send to their families and friends.

I have lost my mojo!

2007-07-31T10:31:00.001-06:00

I never thought I would ever find myself not wanting to stamp. It seems these last few months have been so filled with stamping excitement that I have found myself in a serious burn out. Has anyone else had it this bad? I have not had any desire to pick up a stamp, in over a month... If you had asked me in the early months of spring if I would ever thought this possible I would have laughed and told you "never". And here I am now after all of this years amazing accomplishments, wondering whether I will ever get over the burn out. If you have any tips or ideas for getting back into it, please share them... at this point I am open for suggestions lol. I am truly hoping my mojo returns to me quickly... or maybe you have some I can borrow for the time being LOL. Rubber Hugs!

~Kyla Maestas

P.S. I also want to thank those of you who have taken the time to email and say hello, it is always wonderful to hear from you!

New Web Address.... Please update your Bookmarks and Links

2007-06-11T07:14:00.000-06:00

I have been very overwhelmed and frustrated... blog linking issues. In labeling my blog SweetwaterDesigns I never looked closely at the smaller words that make up this title... there is a word within that is being censored by various web filters preventing stampers from visiting the site. I have made a change to the blog web address in hopes of correcting this issue, please update your bookmarks. For those who link here from your blogs, please update your links to reflect the new web address.

Sorry for the frustration but hopefully this will cure the problems.

http://swdkylamaestas.blogspot.com/

Featured Stamper Challenge!!

2007-05-23T07:40:00.000-06:00

Double-Lined Doodles!!

If you haven't already checked out the Splitcoaststampers' Featured Stamper Challenge... you should definitely do so. There are some amazing stampers featured, with galleries full of awesome cards to CASE. I am excited to be featured as this week's Featured Stamper and look forward to seeing every one's amazing projects... if you have created a CASE for this week's challenge... post a link here so we can check out your projects!

Recently my dear friend Kendra Giles was featured as the Featured Stamper.... I haven't had a chance to do much stamping but couldn't pass up the opportunity to CASE something from her gallery. To Learn more about CASEing this fabulous diva, click here. Here is my inspiration card.... as you are sure to notice I changed a few things from the original. A very belated Congratulations Kendra... you Rock!

Card Details

Stamps: Double-Lined Doodles

Cardstock: Almost Amethyst, Whisper White, Basic Black

Ink: Almost Amethyst, Basic Black,Mellow Moss

Other: Cuttlebug Swirls Folder, 1 1/4" and 1 3/8" hole punches, Organdy Ribbon is May Arts

I distressed the embossed background with Basic Black ink, it was a risky thought (before this I would never have dreamed about distressing with black ink, I typically stick with browns) but I am pleased with the outcome.

Edited to Include: Trouble with Photos

We were recently playing at Lagoon in SLC UT, while there my camera was knocked out of my hands... needless to say it didn't just drop it went flying. The camera is barely functional, please keep this in mind when viewing the photos for the next couple of weeks while I wait for it to be repaired.

Judges Reminder

2007-05-18T07:31:00.001-06:00

I have already seen two posts asking questions about how many cards to send so I thought I would just post in hopes that everyone will get it. Judges need to send 3 cards total. Cards can be mailed to Kyla Maestas 3714 Madison Dr Rock Springs WY 82901. If you have extra cards that you would like to donate to the troops feel free to send them along. You will be recieving links to the gallery for judging next week. Thanks again for your help in gathering cards for the troops. Rubber Hugs!!

Cards for Troop Contest... Update!!

2007-05-16T07:09:00.000-06:00

I have been MIA for a bit, things have been extremely busy at our house. My kids are playing baseball/softball, we just finished Dance Nationals at Lagoon in SLC and things don't seem to be slowing down anytime soon.... However the Cards for Troops contest has come to an end. I will be formulating a gallery for the judges to view all of the submissions over the next couple of days and the winner will be announced in the next week or two.

For those of you still wanting to donate.... I am still accepting cards to send... I had really hoped to send 400 cards but we are only about half way. If you would like to donate cards and envies, please send them to Kyla Maestas 3714 Madison Dr. Rock Springs WY 82901. I will be accepting cards until June 1st.

I have received one packet of judges prize cards and let me tell you... they are ROCKIN'!! A few lucky winners are going to have some fabulous cards, these judges are amazingly talented stampers.

Cards for Troops Contest.... More Cards Needed!!

2007-05-07T06:05:00.000-06:00

Cards for Troops.... More Cards Needed!!

I have started to see a few cards trickle in but no where near the numbers I had hoped for. Hopefully we will have a flood of cards come in this week. If you haven't heard about the contest... you can click here for more information. There are some fabulous prizes, each of the winners will receive a special card from each of the judges (one of the best prizes in my honest opinion). Want to know more about our judges, click here.

If you do not have time to create a submission, remember that you can always donate your extra cards, swaps you are no longer using etc to the cause.

Cards can be sent to:
Kyla Maestas
3714 Madison Dr.
Rock Springs WY 82901

Happy Mother's Day.... to a Fabulous Purse-on!!

2007-05-06T20:56:00.000-06:00

Happy Mother's Day... to a Fabulous Purse-on!!

Papercrafts Gallery Idol Challenge Submission

I created this card for the Papercrafts Magazine Gallery Idol.. this week's theme was honoring Mother's Day with shaped cards. The purse seemed to be the best shape for a mother's day card... most girls are absolutley crazy about purses... I love a great looking purse but I tend to fill it to the brim no matter what size purse I buy. I could easily migrate from a wallet to an oversided suitcase in just a few week's time. My husband would claim that my purse should be considered a weapon... (I am terrible about cleaning it out), one day while cleaning it out I sorted out all the change and took it to the bank to be counted... $54.o0 in change (no bills), I of course defended myself by telling him that handing this bag over to a potential mugger would be no chore at all, if I aimed just right we would most likely be knocked completely out LOL. Because of this, I usually limit myself to the pockets in my jeans for favorite jacket.

Card Details:
Stamps: Doodle This
Cardstock: Basic Black, Shimmery White, Cool Caribbean
Ink: Basic Black
Other: White Signo Gel Pen, May Arts Organdy Ribbon, Silver Cording, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter, Black Micro Beads

I stamped the doodle background and colored it in with a white gel pen. I used a little liquid glue and Dazzling Diamonds to add some extra pizazz. The flower is stamped on Cool Caribbean with the same coloring and glitter, with the addition of black micro beads for additional texture. I used my computer to create the Mother's Day tag and the sentiment for the inside of the purse (font is Bickley Script), the center of the card reads, "Happy Mother's Day to a Fabulous Purse-on!!" In designing my card for this week I wanted to steer away from the traditional cards for Mother's Day and create one that was generic enough that you could give it to a friend, I have so many friends who are fabulous mother's, it is nice to honor them.

Don't forget to vote... all the contestants count on your votes to keep them in the competition for another week. Voting will begin tomorrow afternoon and will continue until Thursday, just as it did this week.

FYI... when attempting to vote, you will see an option to take a Survey, this is not an actual survey but the way you vote. I was a little leery in clicking there myself because you never know what you are clicking on but this is a safe route. Your votes are greatly appreciated!! Thank you for your continued support.

Top 15 Finalists for Gallery Idol

2007-05-04T11:55:00.000-06:00

I am so excited.... I made the cut to the next round. Congratulations to all the contestants who made it... now what kind of shaped card to create for Mother's Day!

For more information about the contest and those who made the next round.... click here. Thanks to all those who voted. Be sure to stop by my gallery over the weekend to see my next Gallery Idol card.

Have you seen the Retirement List for Stampin' Up!

2007-05-01T07:43:00.000-06:00

If you haven't seen it yet you can view it at www.stampinup.com. I was really excited to see the list this year... I am glad to see some of the older sets go to make room for the new. I was sad to see a few of my long time favorites go:
*Girlfriends
*Celebrate in Style
*Words by Wilson
*Petal Prints

well I could go on and on but those were the ones that were the sadest to see go. I am really excited to see what the new catalog brings. I think I am losing about 45 sets this year.

Don't Forget to Vote!!

2007-05-01T05:37:00.000-06:00

Voting is open until Thursday for Papercraft's Galery Idols... there is only one vote allowed per computer. For more information on voting, click here.

Sassy Stems ~Thank You~ Gallery Idol Submission

2007-04-29T20:51:00.000-06:00

Sassy Stems "Thank You"

I am so nervous, I have seen several of the top 20 finalist's cards and they are fabulous... hopefully I will get to play another round. Here is my submission for this week's Gallery Idol theme (Thank You). Be sure to stop by and place your votes... I am counting on you all to help me make it as far as possible, thanks in advance for your support!!

Voting Details:

Voting for “Round 1: Thanks Cards” begins at noon (MST) on Monday, April 30. This is open to ALL online viewers and designers. Everyone will have until noon (MST) on Thursday, May 3 to cast your vote for your favorite designer. (You may only vote once. All duplicate votes received from the same computer will automatically be removed.) The top 15 finalists will be announced on Friday, May 4, and given a theme for the next round.

To view this weeks Gallery Idol Thank You cards, click here.

Card Details

Stamps: Sassy Stems, Warmest Regards, Cheesecloth Background

Cardstock: Cool Caribbean, Almost Amethyst, Vintage Violet, Whisper White, Designer Series Paper (new from Stampin' Up!)

Ink: Basic Black, Cool Caribbean, Almost Amethyst, Vintage Violet, Whisper White

Other: Organdy Ribbon (May Arts), Sprial Punch, 1 1/4" and 1 3/8" circle punches, Adhesive Gems (EK Success).

I'm a Gallery Idol Top 20 Finalist!! Woohoo!!

2007-04-28T07:30:00.000-06:00

I am so excited... my dear friend Jana Weaver had posted about this Gallery Idol project that Papercrafts Magazine was hosting. I am a huge fan of the American Idol show and of course card making... naturally I love the idea of combining these two concepts. Well I entered a card just for fun and I am absolutely excited to announce... I am a top 20 finalist!! (Doing a Very HAPPY Dance!!) They announced having 1100 submissions, that is so amazing!!

Looks like I will be playing with some new DCWV supplies... finalists received the following prizes:

5" x 5" White Scalloped Glitter Cards - $4.99
5" x 5" Green Scalloped Glitter Cards - $4.99
A2 Blue Scalloped Glitter Cards - $4.99
A2 Pink Scalloped Glitter Cards - $4.99
Friendship Color Vellum Quote Stack - $5.99
Free copy of a current issue from Paper Crafts magazine

This weeks theme is "Thanks"

Voting for “Round 1: Thanks Cards” begins at noon (MST) on Monday, April 30. This is open to ALL online viewers and designers. Everyone will have until noon (MST) on Thursday, May 3 to cast your vote for your favorite designer. (You may only vote once. All duplicate votes received from the same computer will automatically be removed.) The top 15 finalists will be announced on Friday, May 4, and given a theme for the next round.

For more information about Gallery Idol, click here.

Double-Lined Doodles... Tips and More!

2007-04-28T07:18:00.000-06:00

Love those Petals

It has been a few days since I posted a sample... I have been extremely busy finishing up deadlines etc. This is the first card I have created using my Cuttlebug and folders that I recently purchased... love it and I am so glad I purchased one.

Tips: I love the look of the flowers in this set when they are cut out and popped up, it adds a lot of dimension and detail to the cards quickly. Some may frown on cutting because it takes so long, others have trouble cutting due to issues with hands etc... I wanted to share some tips specific with this set that will help the cutting process go faster. With the help of one of the Stampin' Up! punches you will wonder why you weren't cutting these out all along.

Supplies Needed: 1 1/4 " hole punch, paper snips and flowers

Fast Cutting: Start by stamping and coloring in images, it is easier to do it now than later. Once you have completed that you going to center the flowers inside the 1 1/4" hole punch and pop them out. Then use your paper snips and create triangle cuts to finish cutting out the flowers.

Card Details:

Stamps: Double-Lined Doodles

Ink: Basic Black, Rose Red, Regal Rose, Almost Amethyst, Lovely Lilac and Certainly Celery

Cardstock: Whisper White, Almost Amethyst, Rose Red

Other: Cuttlebug Spots and Dots folder, 1 1/4" hole punch, Rose Red Brads

Cards for Troops Contest.... Combining Postage

2007-04-26T07:12:00.000-06:00

I have had a few questions come in sending in cards for the contest. I think to keep our overall objective in mind (400 cards) I would like to welcome combined mailings, if you want to send all of your cards in one package that would be fine. Please be sure that you include your information (recipes etc) with each card because they are sure to get seperated at some point.

I cannot wait to see your cards, and thanks again for helping!

Tagged!!

2007-04-24T07:19:00.000-06:00

I have been having a very hard time selecting blogs for this tagged thing... and I am sure you are supposed to pick a few new people to tag, but some of my absolute favorite blogs have already been tagged so I apologize in advance for the repeats.

My Top 5 Picks... (in no particular order are)

* Inkin' It Up! with Kendra Giles (she is also helping judge the Cards for Troops Contest)

* Susiestampalot with Susan Liles (she has some adorable projects on her blog)

* Just Us with Sara Allison (I stumbled across her blog after seeing her comment about Wyoming and let me tell you she can scrapbook, I just love her pages)

* Janas Creative Pursuits in Stamping with Jana Weaver (I have been stamp buddies with Jana for years, I have enjoyed many swaps with her and absolutely love her blog)

* Stamping Therapy with Jen Javorsky (Jen always has such adorable projects on her blog, she is such a sweethearts, and is also judging our Cards for Troops contest)

**I wanted to mention also that this was absolute torture... I have so many blogs that I peak in on and visit often that it was really hard to pick 5... these are the blogs I visit often and continue to return to because of their fabulous creativity and talents as well as their fun loving spirits and enthusiasm.

If a dog was your teacher.....

2007-04-23T07:23:00.000-06:00

If a dog was the teacher...

My dear friend Gina Pacheco sent me this adorable email and I thought instead of email forwarding it all over the place that I would post it here and share it with you. I am not much of a fan for email forwards because it seems that once you get started it can be extremely overwhelming to keep up but Gina always has the best! Thanks for sharing Gina!! Rubber Hugs dear friend. This is our beloved Kita, we have had her for almost 6 years and I cannot imagine life without her.

You would learn stuff like:

*When loved ones come home, always run to greet them. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
*Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
*When it's in your best interest, practice obedience.! Let others know when they've invaded your territory.
*Take naps.
*Stretch before rising.
*Run, romp, and play daily.
*Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
*Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
*On warm days, stop to lie on your back in the grass.
*On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
*When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
*No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout..run right back and make friends.
*Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
*Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.
*Stop when you have had enough.
*Be loyal.
*Never pretend to be something you're not.
*If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
*When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

Doodle That!

2007-04-23T07:08:00.000-06:00

Doodle That- Regionals Re-Creation

I am back to work on a major deadline and find the time is flying and I still have lots of projects to complete. I was also out of town this weekend helping my grandparents get ready to move. There will be new projects this week (new color challenge, sketch challenge, more Double-Lined Doodles and projects using my newest toy...the Cuttlebug) so be sure to check back.

Today's card is a variation of the projects I shared during my Regionals presentation.

Card Details

Stamps: Looks Like Spring (small print pattern), Doodle That

Cardstock: Elegant Eggplant, Certainly Celery, Cool Caribbean, Whisper White

Ink: Elegant Eggplant, Certainly Celery, Cool Caribbean

Other: White Narrow Organdy Ribbon, Eggplant Grosgrain Ribbon, Black Brads, Various Punches

Technique: Frayed Ribbon

Don't forget about the Cards for Troops Contest... you can find more information about how you can help by clicking here.

I've Been Tagged!!

2007-04-20T18:37:00.000-06:00

I have been tagged by several blogging buddies and thought I would post to tell you I will be posting my 5 favorite picks tomorrow.

New Look!!

2007-04-20T18:25:00.000-06:00

I am excited to share the new look with everyone, I have been working with Beth Silaika and she has done an amazing job!! So... what do you think?? I cannot wait to show you the new watermarks, they are just as amazing as the banner!

If you would like more information about Beth and her fabulous creations, click here!!

Sketch Challenge 118 Double-Lined Doodles

2007-04-20T06:30:00.000-06:00

I Just Love You.... Sketch Challenge 118

I created this card using Sketch Challenge 118 from Splitcoaststampers. You can find more information about this challenge by clicking here.

Card Details
Stamp Sets: Polka Dots and Paisley (spots), Double-Lined Doodles
Cardstock: Real Red, Basic Black, Cool Caribbean, Whisper White
Ink: Basic Black, Certainly Celery, Real Red, Cool Caribbean
Other: Black Organdy Ribbon (May Arts), Real Red brads, Large Oval Punch, Cutter Took Kit (Faux Stitching), 1/4" Punch (brad mats)

Techniques and Other Details: I created a Cool Caribbean marker by adding re-inker to a new blender pen. I also used the Faux Stitching with the Cutter Tool Kit again, I just love this look!! (use the perforating tool, drive it through lots of craft ink (whisper white was used here), and then drive it over the cardstock, re-inking as needed.)

Don't Forget about the Cards for Troops Contest,
for more details click here.

More Double-Lined Doodles!!

2007-04-19T09:12:00.000-06:00

Scalloped Double-Lined Doodles

Card Details

Stamps: Polka Dots and Paisley (spots), Double-Lined Doodles

Cardstock: Basic Black, Real Red, Cool Caribbean and Whisper White

Ink: Basic Black, Cool Caribbean, Real Red, Certainly Celery

Other: Scalloped Circle Giga Punch & Mega Circle Punch (Marvy Uchida), Organdy Ribbon (May Arts), Real Red Brads, 1/4" Circle Punch (brad mats), 1/2" Circle Punch (tabs), Large Oval Punch

More Scalloped Doodles

Card Details
Stamps: Polka Dots and Paisley (spots), Double-Lined Doodles
Cardstock: Basic Black, Real Red, Cool Caribbean and Whisper White
Ink: Basic Black, Cool Caribbean, Real Red, Certainly Celery
Other: Scalloped Circle Giga Punch & Mega Circle Punch (Marvy Uchida), Organdy Ribbon (May Arts), Real Red Brads, 1/4" Circle Punch (brad mats), 1/2" Circle Punch (tabs), Large Oval Punch

Don't Forget about the Cards for Troops Contest,

for more details click here.

Finally... The Judges Panel is Complete!!

2007-04-19T06:20:00.000-06:00

I spent most of yesterday emailing and messaging back and forth with some of my favorite stampers putting together the rest of the Judges Panel for the card contest.... so are you ready for the complete announcement???

Your Judges Are:
* Kendra Giles
* Jennifer del Muro
* Susan Liles
* Debbie Olson
* Jen Javorsky
* Kyla Maestas

In addition the prizes and gift certificates for the winners, each of the judges will be creating a special card for the winners. It's going to be a great contest, so get out your stamping supplies and get started!! We cannot wait to see what you put together! For more details about the contest, click here.

Another Double-Lined Doodles

2007-04-18T11:33:00.000-06:00

Double Doodles

I have been having so much fun with the Double-Lined Doodles that I decided to create another fun card with today's Sketch Challenge (SC120). I am so excited... this is the very first time I have ever been on time in posting a sketch challenge... too fun. For more details about this sketch challenge, click here. Enjoy!

Card Details

Stamps: Double-Lined Doodles

Cardstock: Basic Black, Real Red, Cool Caribbean, Whisper White

Ink: Cool Caribbean, Real Red, Basic Black

Other: Real Red Brads, 1 3/8" and 1 1/4" Circle Punches, 1/4" Circle Punch (brad mats)

Techniques and Other Details: I created a Cool Caribbean marker by adding re-inker to a new blender pen. I also used the Faux Stitching with the Cutter Tool Kit again, I just love this look!! (use the perforating tool, drive it through lots of craft ink (whisper white was used here), and then drive it over the cardstock, re-inking as needed.)

Cards for Troops... Judges!!

2007-04-18T10:46:00.000-06:00

Cards for Troops Card Contest...

Announcing the Judges!!

I have been contacting a handful of stampers to help in judging the contest and I am pleased to announce that two of them have already announced that they will help in judging the cards. I am pleased to announce the following Judges: (more to come so check back often)

* Kendra Giles
* Jennifer del Muro
* Susan Liles
* TBA **Coming Soon**
* TBA ** Coming Soon**
* Kyla Maestas

In addition the prizes and gift certificates for the winners, each of the judges will be creating a special card for the winners. Keep checking back for more details!!

Card Contest... No Hallmark Stores in Iraq or Afghanistan

2007-04-18T07:51:00.000-06:00

Cards for Troops... Card Contest!!

I was recently contacted by Debbi Dresser about helping with a Cards for Troops project, I was very excited to get involved and to help out.... and you can too! I have paired this effort with a blog Card Contest and hope that each of you will do your part to help us in acquiring as many cards for troops as we can.

Card Contest Details:

1- Participants can send as many single entries as they like for the contest. Each entry should include a recipe (please do not include this on the card, as troops will be using these cards to send to friends and family). Your recipe should include information about all the supplies used to create your card as well as your contact information, contact information will be used for the sole purpose of contacting the winners.

2- Send cards with the following themes: Father's Day, Happy Birthday, Thinking of You, Hello, Friend, Missing You, Sympathy, and Kids. Please refrain from placing greetings or sentiments in the inside of the cards, we want to leave plenty of room for the troops to send their personal messages to friends, family and loved ones. If the card is a darker color, please include a lighter card front in the center of the card for correspondence.

3- Cards should be full cards (no fronts) and should include a coordinating envelope. Envelopes must not be clear.

4- Vendor Restrictions- there are no vendor restrictions for this contest, anything goes.

5- Cards will be judged by a private panel of judges based upon quality and creativity... your best work is greatly appreciated.

6- All card submissions must be received no later than May 15th. Winners will be announced within 7 days and posted to the site. All card submissions will be packaged and mailed to Debbi Dresser to be included in her next shipment of cards to the troops. If you would like more information or more ways to get involved you can visit Debbie's blog by clicking here.

7- Contest submissions and donations should be sent to Kyla Maestas 3714 Madison Dr. Rock Springs WY 82901.

Winners and Art Gallery Feature
3 winners will be selected. Winners will receive the following prizes 1st place- $20.00 SU gift certificate (redeemable through Kyla Maestas), 2nd place- $10.00 gift certificate from Eclectic Paperie and 3rd- $5.00 SU gift certificate (redeemable through Kyla Maestas). Kendra Giles has agreed to be on the judges panel and will be donating a $20.00 SU gift certificate as well (redeemable through her). Your cards will also be featured on my blog during the week following the contest close. If you would like a link to your blog or website included with this post, please include this information with your submission.

Spread the Word... in order for this project to be a huge success, we need as many participants as possible. Please feel free to include information and links on your blogs, websites, and on-line forums encouraging others to get involved and make a difference. My goal is to gather 400+ cards to send to troops.

Other Ways You Can Help... Maybe you are not interested in the contest or may not have time to participate, but you can help by sending your old swap cards and samples to be forwarded to the troops as well. It's okay if they are card fronts, I will donate the time and supplies to turn them into full cards to be sent to the troops.. if you are choosing to do this, please include your contact information with your cards, any envelopes you can include with this donation are greatly appreciated!

Thank you in advance for your help and efforts to make this a success.

If you have questions for Debbi, you can contact her at pfcrensmom-cardsfortroops@yahoo.com

New Stamp Set from Regionals..... Double-Line Doodles

2007-04-17T07:00:00.000-06:00

I Just Love You... Double-Line Doodles

Here is a sample using the new stamp set I received at Regionals. I wanted to use my new punch (spiral punch) too. The color combination was inspired from Color Challenge 92... The original color challenge used the following combination: Real Red, Cool Caribbean, and Whisper White. In creating the card I decided to bring in another tone so I used the Tempting Turquoise as well... hopefully this is not too far off the original color challenge. For more details about the color challenge, click here. This card also gave me the chance to play with a sketch challenge.... this card was created using Sketch Challenge 119, for more details about this sketch challenge, click here. I also had an opportunity to play around with the faux stitching technique I learned at Regionals this last weekend, using the cutter tool kit, see below for details. Enjoy!

Card Details

Stamps: Double-Line Doodles

Ink: Cool Caribbean, Real Red, Gable Green, Whisper White Craft

Cardstock: Real Red, Cool Caribbean, Tempting Turquoise, Whisper White

Other: Polka Dot Ribbon (May Arts), Red Grosgrain Ribbon, Real Red Brads, 1/4" hole punch (brad mats) spiral punch, large oval punch.

Technique Details: I used the faux stitching technique I learned at Regionals to create this background on the spiral punched piece as well as the real red piece. You use the perforating tool, drive it through lots of craft ink (whisper white was used here), and then drive it over the cardstock, re-inking as needed. I was excited to see this new technique, it does an amazing job as a faux for the stitched look.... I have grown tired of the faux stiching using the gel pens and paper piercing kits, so this was a fun twist and a new technique I am likely to use again and again.

Bubble Queen... Regional Wow Presentation

2007-04-16T19:40:00.000-06:00

Bubble Queen... You're Fabulous!!

This is a duplicate creation of the Bubble Queen projects I presented this last weekend at Salt Lake City Regionals. There is a coordinating card (left), Genie Bag (right) and a small cello bag of grapefruit scented bath salts. I cannot believe I have had this set for over a year and have never used it... I am pretty pleased with this sets first projects. Enjoy!

Project Details:

Stamps: Bubble Queen

Cardstock: Certainly Celery, Regal Rose, Cool Caribbean, Whisper White, Petals and Paisleys Designers Series Paper

Ink: Basic Black, Regal Rose, Certainly Celery, Cool Caribbean, Pretty in Pink

Other: Rose and Celery Grosgrain Ribbon, White Narrow Organdy Ribbon, 1/4" circle punch (brad mats), 1 1/4" and 1 3/8" Circle Punches (various tags), Dazzling Diamonds Glitter

Technique: Frayed Ribbon (SCS TLC109) For more information about the frayed ribbon technique, click here. The bubbles in the bathtub were created by rolling the frayed ribbon into tiny balls and adhering to the centers of the bubbles (SU liquid glue).

Regional Display Board... Workshop WoW's

2007-04-16T19:26:00.000-06:00

Workshop Wow's

I was fortunate enough to be one of the Workshop Wow Presenters for the Salt Lake City Regionals this last weekend (Saturday session). I had a great time, despite being extremely nervous. It was a wonderful experience and I had an amazing time. I learned several techniques that I hadn't seen before (love the idea of using the perforating tool on the cutter tool kit for faux stitching, I cannot wait to try this), and met some amazing stampers. I have included a photo of the display board, not all of these projects are mine... I shared this with another presenter. The first two projects in the first row across are mine, the first two in row two, and the first one in row three. I shared the frayed ribbon technique (main technique for presentation) and a little altered designer series paper (Bundle of Joy Card). I am hoping to share a few close ups of these projects throughout this week so be sure to check back!

Chicken Soup For the Soul...

2007-04-12T16:07:00.000-06:00

Chicken Soup for the Soul.... well maybe if it were plucked LOL!

This is one of the samples I created recently for a *Secret Project* (details to be announced on Sunday!!) that was not picked for the final cut. I have had many laughs about this card... I love the frayed ribbon technique and I have used it for so many fun and different projects. I thought a splash for ribbon might add some fun texture to this card... however after creating this card I realized that it looks like someone made chicken soup with a chicken that was not quite plucked LOL... it is more noticeable in person but you might be able to see it on the close up.

Card Details:

Stamps: Under the Weather

Cardstock: Cool Caribbean, Tempting Turquoise, Whisper White, Petals and Paisleys Designer Paper

Ink: Cool Caribbean, Regal Rose, Apricot Appeal

Other: Rose, Turquoise and Apricot Grosgrain Ribbon

Blog Make-Over...I am excited to announce that I have seen the draft of my new blog banner... and I so excited, I cannot wait to post it to the site. I have been working with Beth (AkA MyPrecious SCS), she does an amazing job with the blog banners and I couldn't be happier!! I cannot wait to show you all!!

SLC Here I Come!! I am getting everything packed and ready to head to SLC tomorrow... I am so excited to attend the Scrapbook Expo tomorrow and to attend Regionals on Saturday. If you are planning to attend either event, I look forward to meeting you!! This weekend is bound to be exciting for everyone attending. Happy Stamping and Scrapping!!

New Toys!!

2007-04-10T08:50:00.000-06:00

First and foremost a few updates.... I have not been stamping much as you already know, I had a bad fall recently and hurt my thumb pretty bad, it hurts to do most things so stamping has been very limited. With SLC Regionals coming up I decided I better do only what I needed to for the next couple of days in hopes that it will heal quickly. I have my swaps to finish and that has been about all I have been working on.... sadly enough I have several deadlines that could use some attention, but hopefully in a few days my hand will be better.

So, badly hurt hand, doesn't keep a girl from shopping!! I visited several of my favorite eBay stores today and purchased a new Cuttlebug and some embossing folders... I cannot wait for them to get here so I can play!!

If you are attending SLC Regionals, post, I would love to meet up with you!! I am attending the Saturday session!! I can't wait to share a few good secrets with you.... you will see what I mean soon enough! Fun projects to share on Sunday, I have been holding onto these for several weeks, be sure to check back!

Hope everyone had a fabulous Easter!!

It's Your Day!

2007-04-09T07:44:00.000-06:00

It's Your Day!!

Being sick for the last week has me very far behind on some of my upcoming deadlines, swaps for SLC Regionals and other projects.... I am starting to finally feel better. Here is another Girlfriends creation. Enjoy!!

Card Details
Stamps: Doodle This, Girlfriends, Warm Words
Cardstock: Basic Black, Whisper White, Pink Passion
Ink: Basic Black, Pink Passion, Blush Blossom, Creamy Caramel
Other: Giga Scalloped Circle Punch & Mega Circle Punch (Marvy Uchida), 1 3/8" and 1 1/4" Circle Punches, Crafter's Tool Kit (faux paper piercing), White Gel Pen, Black Polka-Dot Ribbon (may arts)

I subscribe here..... Your Winners!!

2007-04-03T06:11:00.000-06:00

I have contacted the winners via email and I am starting to put together the names of our winners. I will be adding them as I receive them.... if you haven't checked your inbox, be sure to do so.... it just might be you. Congratulations to you ladies!! I will be mailing out all the blog candy at the end of this week.

Subscriber's Blog Candy Winners

* Connie R. Babbert

* Linda Schmitt

Bundle of Joy... Altered Designer Paper

2007-04-02T15:53:00.000-06:00

Bundle of Joy

I am so glad I ordered the Bundle of Joy set from the Spring Mini Catalog, I normally do not send out more than 1-2 baby cards in a year but I am growing rather attached to this set. This card is jam packed with fun techniques and products... all of the techniques on this card (with the exception of the frayed ribbon) are Kyla Maestas original techniques... for me this is exciting because it is not often that I come up with something totally cool and totally original. Well it's back to bed for me (I came down with a really bad cold today, luckily the worst didn't set in until after the card was finished)... Check back this evening for the Subscribers Blog Candy Awards, I have emails out the winners and am hoping to get some names to announce instead of posting their email addresses.

Card Details
Stamps: Bundle of Joy
Cardstock: Chocolate Chip, Barely Banana, Pretty in Pink, Almost Amethyst and Very Vanilla, Au Chocolate Designer Paper
Other: Chocolate and Cream Grosgrain Ribbons, Blue Organdy Ribbon, 1/4" circle punch for brad mats and circle borders)

More Details
There are several cool features to today's card... one of my favorites is the look of the Altered Designer Paper. I think one thing I love about the concept of the Altered Designer Paper, is that it was one of my original technique ideas... it is not often that I come up with something cool like this without the influence of other artists... but this one is all me!!

Altered Designer Paper... This is a new technique I came up with to really show off the Au Chocolat designer paper and I have used it on several of my latest projects. To create this look you need several Stampin' Write Markers, a classic ink pad or two and a sponge dauber. First start by coloring in the designer paper, with today's card I added color to outline several of the images from the designer paper. Once you have completely colored the paper, blush it with some color (I used Barely Banana for this card), and then add the distressing color (Chocolate Chip) over the top for the finished look. I added the distressing color around all of the layers of this card to create a consistent look... this look reminds me of some of the AMM papers and other eclectic style papers that are so hot right now.

Reverse Paper Piercing... Another cool feature on this card is the reverse paper piercing on the photo corner, I used the photo corner stamp from the Totally Cool stamp set, paper pierced it on the top side and then flipped it over, distressed around it and used the reverse side for some amazing textural elements.

Frayed Ribbon... I have done so much with this that I am certain you do not need to know anymore about this, if you are a new reader to the blog, check out some of the Bunny Hug cards found under the heading Spring Mini Catalog for more details.

Kyla Maestas ~Sweetwater Designs~

:: Moving to a new location ::

Boatloads of Love

You Float My Boat

Embrace Life

Heartfelt Sympathy

Gingerbread Man Spa Basket

Yappy Holidays!

Simple Pleasures!

Who Let the Dogs Out!

Perfect Presentation

To Grandmother's House We Go!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Today's Designer Challenge.... Only Words

Gift Makeover... for the Teachers!

Holiday Hedgehogs.... Be Merry!

Holiday Hedgehogs.. Skaters Pond

Martha Stewart Christmas Wreath

Retired Stamp Set Sale... Updated!!

Blowout Shipments Update!!

Wondrous Gift of Gold

Wondrous Gift!

Festive Favorites... All Decked Out!

Tag-A-Palooza Craze!

Happy Halloween!!

Holiday Hooha... Many Magical Moments

Blowout Shipments

Tag-a-palooza Organizer

Tag-A-Palooza!!

Retired Stamp Set SALE!!

Punch Pals Craze

Snowman Fun

*Let it Snow*

Fab-u-lous Office Creations

Cosmo Cricket.... Address Book

A Little Sidetracked

Super Fling!!

Greeting Cards Galore!!

Card for Troops ~ 1st Place

Cards for Troops... Second Place!!

It's No Wonder...

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

Grateful Greetings II

Grateful Greetings

Forever Grateful

Dotted Autumn... Grateful Greetings

Thanksgiving Blessings

Dotted Autumn ~ Place Setting

Dotted Autumn ~Tool Time

It's Tool Time!

Holiday Hooha... Web Wishes!

More Holiday Hooha!

Witching You.... Halloween Fun!

Halloween Fun Coming Soon!

More... Three For You!

Three For You!

Just For You Box!

Which One Is It Contest... **Winner**

What City Does "Vitality" Belong In?

Kyla's Color Challenge #1

Thinking Of You!

More Convention Display Board Fun!

Artfully Asian "Thank You"

First Day of School!

Which One Is It? *Contest*

Swim Little Fish!

Train Ride At the Zoo

Cards for Troops Update!

I have lost my mojo!

New Web Address.... Please update your Bookmarks and Links

Featured Stamper Challenge!!

Judges Reminder

Cards for Troop Contest... Update!!

Cards for Troops Contest.... More Cards Needed!!

Happy Mother's Day.... to a Fabulous Purse-on!!

Top 15 Finalists for Gallery Idol

Have you seen the Retirement List for Stampin' Up!

Don't Forget to Vote!!

Sassy Stems ~*Thank You*~ Gallery Idol Submission

I'm a Gallery Idol Top 20 Finalist!! Woohoo!!

Let it Snow

Which One Is It Contest... Winner

Which One Is It? Contest

Sassy Stems ~Thank You~ Gallery Idol Submission