Halloween Fun Coming Soon!

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!

Thinking Of You!

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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!

Three For You!

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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!

Just For You!

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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**

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?

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

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!

Thinking Of You!

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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!

Build-A-Flower!!
Photo by Angie Tieman

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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.

Always On My Mind!
Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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!

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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!

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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"

Simple and Elegant Thank You!
Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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!

First Day of School!

Photo by Angie Tieman

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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*

Which One Is It?

Photo by Unknown

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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!

Swim Little Fish!

photo by Angie Tieman

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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

Isn't She Adorable!!

photo by Stephanie Luman (Thank you!!)

Images © 1990-2007 Stampin Up!

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!

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!

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

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!!

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

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!!

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!!

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!!

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

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!

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!!

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

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!!

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!

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

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!!

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.....

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!

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!!

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!!

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

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!!

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!!

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

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!!

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

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

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

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

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...

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!!

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!

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!!

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

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Bundle of Joy... Altered Designer Paper

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.

And the Winners Are...Blogs that Link Here!!

Isn't She Adorable?

Okay so maybe I am totally bi est at this point, but this happens when you are her mother. We recently visited Spanish Fork UT for a dance competition where Tayllar was competing. Believe it or not, we were so busy with the dance thing that I didn't get a chance to check out any of the local crafting hot spots, and believe me it was hard to drive by and not be able to stop and browse for even a few minutes (I am sure it would have taken me longer than a few minutes but I could have restrained myself from the usual hour of shopping LOL). I am hoping to visit again soon, as I have heard they have some amazing stores.

So enough with the rambling already, my sincere apologies for being a little late in posting. Without further ado, here are the linking blogs candy giveaways!! Each of the blogs listed below will receive one of the Sassy Stems cards, if you are one of these blog site owners, please email your mailing information to kylamaestas@msn.com. I want to just tell you all quickly that it was a blast visiting all of your sites, I was continually amazed at the amount of talent each of you have and enjoyed all of your hand stamped creations, I hope to visit again soon when I have more time to post some comments and read a bit more about each of you. Tayllar and I put all the names in a dish and she drew out the 5 lucky winners... congratulations to everyone who won!!

Blogs That Link Here.... Winners

- Simply Pink (http://princessmsk.blogspot.com/ )
- My Stampin Habit (http://www.stampinhabit.blogspot.com/)
- Kim's Stampin Room (http://kimsstampinroom.blogspot.com/)
- Yummy Creations (http://yummycreations.blogspot.com/)
- Stamping Abundance (http://stampwithtrisha.blogspot.com/)

Subscribers Blog Candy to be announced after this afternoon's card, so check back!!