Hand Me a Stamp

Another Happy Birthday Card - I'm on a Roll

2011-07-20T18:23:00.000-05:00

::danish::

I made this birthday card yesterday for my boyfriend's brother, David. He's like a brother to me, so even though I've been working like a mad-lady this week, I wanted to make him a card. He always comments on how great my cards and projects are, so I juuust couldnt bring myself to give him a store bought card for his birthday.

The skull is grungeboard covered in Crackle Paint, Walnut Distress Ink, and Crackle Accents. I threw in a lot of staples, one of Tim's journaling tickets, and whole lotta distressing to make it a little more manly.

He liked it. Mission Accomplished :)

Shabby Chic Birthday Card

2011-07-15T22:10:00.000-05:00

In my spare time this week, I made this super cute (if I do say so myself) birthday card for my new boss. I added lots of hand stitching (because I am seriously lacking in the having a sewing machine department), gem stones, Enamel Accents, Tattered Rose Crackle Paint, aaand Rock Candy Distress Stickles. The butterfly base is Grunge Board.

I know 'Best Wishes' isn't the best birthday card greeting, but all of my Happy Birthday stamps were a little too...cheesy :) This was the first card that I've given to a non-family member, and actually received a sincere 'thank you' and acknowledgement that it was handmade. Best feeling evar :)

Also, on a side note...I received a huge tote full of new Tim Holtz product that will soon be out on the shelves at JoAnn - SO EXCITED!!!!

Happy Father's Day Dads

2011-06-19T08:00:00.001-05:00

I made three Father's Day cards this year for the various men in my life (the third was too anxious to be mailed to be photographed). I had a hard time getting these to photograph correctly. The bronze rectangles and the two vehicles that are pop-dotted up are super shimmery and bronzey :)

I used some DCWV papers, mixed with cardstock that was painted bronze with acrylic paint and some old dictionary paper that I inked with Distress Inks.

I hope all of you dad's out there have a fantastic Father's Day!

Wedding Card for Dad

2011-06-17T12:00:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow, my dad is getting remarried to his long time girlfriend. Given that I moved to Michigan, where he lives, a few months ago, I only have to drive a couple of hours to his wedding :)

Work at JoAnn has been absolutely taking over my life. We've had our yearly inventory, our yearly audit, and the loss of all of our managers (with the exception of myself and one other) in the last two weeks or so. It's been crazy, therefore, it seems that when I do have a spare hour or so to craft, I have NO creative juices flowing.

Looking through my Google Reader the other night in search of some inspiration to make a wedding card, I came upon a great card, here!

Sadly, I don't have any of the Tim Holtz Distress Stains that she used, so I improvised by stamping with my Distress Inks. I loved the rolled flower, so I found an SVG set that I liked over at 2peas.

Congratulations to my dad and his new bride, and may they have a fantastic life together!

Core'dinations Tim Holtz Distress Collection

2011-06-15T21:10:00.001-05:00

I finally did it!

I got my hands on the new Tim Holtz Distress Collection with Core'dinations! Sunday night, I was helping one of the members on my stocking crew to finish a HUGE cart of open stock scrapbooking paper, and as we were opening the packages of paper, Tim's signature (you know that one...) caught my eye. After freaking out a little that JoAnn was catching up with the times, and carrying some more of Tim's distress products, I went on to tell my team member my history with Tim's products. She opened a package of dark brown paper from the new line, and I said, "I bet that one is Walnut Stain." After turning the paper over and reading the label, I got "wow, you are good..." in response :)

JoAnn is having a big sale this week, and all of their open stock paper is 5 for $1, including the new Core'dinations Distress Collection. The large format stores are carrying 30 of the 36 colors that are available. I picked up one of each.

I actually have a day off tomorrow, so I can't wait to play with my new paper!

Shabby Chic Desk Cup - Tutorial

2011-06-13T13:52:00.000-05:00

Working in receiving for a craft store, I get a lot of shipments that include random fillers to weigh down the boxes. I happened across a few of these tubes that are similar to those used in bulk sticker rolls, and had to take them home :)

I glued a chipboard circle (that I traced and cut out) to one end of the tube with Glossy Accents, and when that dried I painted the entire thing with acrylic paint. Don't forget the inside :)

While the paint dried, I trimmed a piece of patterned paper to the size of the tube, and stamped a collage of Tim Holtz stamps (of course).

I adhered the paper to the tube with Mod Podge. I Mod Podged (is that a word???) the inside also, to protect the inside from whatever pens or tools I decide to keep in it :)

Once all that was dry, I used my Tim Holtz paper piercing tool to pierce a hole through the side. I put a large jump ring through the hole, and attached a piece of chain (Tim Holtz...againz).

Using a few smaller jump rings, attach assorted findings to the chain :)

Don't forget to use your Glossy Accents to attach a few rhinestones!

Do You Have Secrets?

2011-04-19T12:11:00.000-05:00

I can't share exactly what I created today.

If you've never heard of Post Secret, you should check it out. Post Secret is a place where you can anonymously share any and every secret that you've ever had. Those secrets that weigh you down, or that excite you, yet you just can't share them with anyone.

Create a 4x6 post card. One one side - your secret, and on the other side - the address above.

Let your art become something intimate and personal - send a secret.

New Job Today!

2011-03-20T06:18:00.000-05:00

I've been working as a part time employee for JoAnn Fabric since last October, and today I will be my first day at a new store as a manager. I am so nervous and excited all at the same time. Wish me luck, I know this job won't be easy, but I hope it will be worth it!

My First SVG Set

2011-03-13T11:05:00.000-05:00

I've been searching and searching the internet for SVG files to use with my new SCAL program, and had a lot of trouble finding things that I thought I would use. So...I decided to be brave, and create my own. I've been dropping hints for a graphics tablet for my birthday next month :) For now, I just used my Macbook Pro and Illustrator to make some super cute wild life animals. I think they turned out great, but I need someone to try them out for me.

The first 10 people to email me at courtneyzavala(at)gmail(dot)com will get this set emailed to them for FREE!

The set will work with SCAL, MTC and any other 3rd party program you use that can import SVG files.

I really want to see what you can do with these cute little guys (and I hope to goodness that they work correctly!)

Oh the Possibilities!

2011-03-11T14:53:00.000-06:00

I am the proud new owner of an amazing program that I'm sure many of you have heard of

As their website states, Sure Cuts A Lot (or SCAL)is an extremely easy program to allow you to cut your True Type fonts and various shapes on your Cricut Machine and other cutting machines. With the combination of using your Fonts. importing custom artwork and drawing your own shapes, the possibilities are endless!

I'm looking forward to posting projects using my new program! I have a party coming up, so I'm planning on making some decorations.

If you're interested in expanding your crafting horizons, check out the Sure Cuts A Lot software!

Also, check out Lettering Delights for some awesome graphics to use with SCAL or MTC.

My First Card Set

2011-02-25T00:42:00.000-06:00

Last night, I was SO in the mood to make something and be at least slightly crafty (after a stressful week). I really didn't have a project in mind, but I really wanted to try out a few of my new stamps so I made these super simple cards.

There are 6 total cards, and they measure 3.5" x 3.5". The patterned paper is from the October Afternoon Fly A Kite paper stack. All of the stamps are from Inkadinkado :)

I'm not sure what I'll do with these yet (maybe give them out at work?), but I think they're pretty darn cute for a quick project.

It's Up!

2011-02-18T16:39:00.000-06:00

After being slightly delayed due to some technical difficulties, the February issue of Scrapbook News and Review magazine is up and so are the layouts that I created!

There's something for everyone! Scrapbooking, stamping, altered art, and much much more!

Here's a link to head on over!

Flashy Floral Watercolor Tag

2011-02-08T14:00:00.000-06:00

I made this tag tonight and absolutely love it! I used one of my new stamp sets from Inkadinkado called Flashy Floral. Like the Inkadinkado website says, this set just begs to be colored!

I stamped the flowers with my VersaFine Black Onyx ink onto a plain manilla tag. I inked over the entire tag with Spun Sugar Distress Ink, Victorian Velvet Distress Ink, and Tea Dye Distress Ink.

I then stamped the same flowers onto a scrap piece of watercolor paper, used Victorian Velvet and Aged Mahogany Distress Inks with my Zig Brush2O to color them in.

I cut each flower out, and adhered them to their corresponding flower on the tag.

After stamping some dots with Victorian Velvet Distress Ink and a Tim Holtz stamp, and added some white Enamel Accents from Ranger to the dots on the stamps.

The sentiment stamp came from the Hero Arts Thinking of You Messages set.

Watercolor Card for Momma

2011-02-07T05:00:00.000-06:00

Earlier this week, my poor momma down in Texas had a minor stroke. I couldn't afford to send flowers or a stuffed animal (because apparently prices for those things online are outrageous now). My boyfriend took me shopping during my double discount day at work, and saw the stamps I used on the card. He remembered me saying that my mom loved dragonflies, and suggested that I buy them and make her a card, so I did!

I stamped on watercolor paper with my new VersaFine Onyx Black ink, and my new Inkadinkado Morphic Bugs stamps. I used my Zig Brush2O and my awesome Tim Holtz Distress Inks to color in the stamps!

The 'wishing you well' stamp was an old one I had lying around...I'm not sure what company it came from, but it made for a nice font to color in :)

I hope she likes it! Feel better momma!

Guess What!!!

2011-02-05T14:00:00.000-06:00

Hi Everyone! I am SO excited!

I just got news that two of my pages will be published in the next issue of the Scrapbook News and Review Magazine! This will be my very first time being published, and I can't wait to see my work in the magazine next to the work of other amazing scrapbookers!

Scrapbook News and Review is the largest online scrapbooking magazine, and has lots to offer! The magazine features cards, scrapbooking layouts, stamping, altered art, mixed media and more! There's also an awesome and active forum, and lots of other goodies to give your creative senses the tingle they long for. They began in April of 2008 and have been going strong ever since! Check them out, register, and come join the fun!

I'll be posting again on the 13th of February to remind everyone to go check it out!

Love Double Discounts!

2011-02-05T03:08:00.000-06:00

Today was Double Discount day for JoAnn employees in my area, and I got some good stuff! They had most of their Inkadinkado stamp sets on clarence for only $2.97, the Tim Holtz Alcohol Ink Fillable Pen for $1.97, ink pads for 40% off and storage for 50% off. All of those awesome sales, plus my employee discount made for a very impressive total :)

Distress Ink Watercolor: Practice

2011-01-29T23:56:00.000-06:00

Ok bloggers...

I am absolutely even more in love with my Tim Holtz Distress Inks...now that I've invested in a Zig Brush2O!

Because the Distress Inks are specially formulated to react with water, they make for amazing water colors, especially for coloring in stamps! Simply press your ink pad onto a non stick surface, such as your craft sheet or an acrylic block, and use the water brush to pick up small amounts at a time. To clean of the brush after each color, simply swirl it around on your non stick surface or on a scratch piece of paper until its clear again! So easy!

Here's what I did...

This was my first attempt. I was using super cheap plain white paper and it warped like crazy due to all of the moisture. I couldn't believe how well I could detail with the water brush and Distress Inks. Notice the shading under the car - that was done by adding a small amount of Walnut Stain on top of the Tea Dye base. I also layered different blue Distress Inks to create the sky. This stamp is from Artistic Outpost.

This was the same thing. Just practice on regular ol' paper. I wanted to try my hand at coloring her hair and dress. I love the softness to this one, but I might give it another go :)

Today, I bought a package of watercolor paper after work, and cut a few pieces to 2.5"x3.5" (which is the correct size for ATCs). This particular image was actually a mistake. I was stamping...playing around, and really didn't like what I came up with, but I didn't want to waste my new paper, so I colored it in anyway. I at least like how the sky came out :) The water color paper is SO much better than regular cardstock, and didn't warp at all. It help the color better, and really helped the inks act more like watercolors!

This...this is my absolute favorite image so far. The stamp is, of course, a Tim Holtz stamp. Again, I used the water color ATCs that I cut, and was super pleased with the results! I was able to blend three different colors on tree alone, as well as color in the itty bitty leaves. To make the image pop a little more, I went over the lines (very carefully and painstakingly) with black Zig Millennium Markers in size 01 and 05.

Let me know what you think. I'm super excited about this!

Just Me

2011-01-23T16:15:00.000-06:00

Hey there! This layout, Just Me, was so much fun to make! I'm applying to work for an amazing company/magazine, and this was part of the application process! Wish me luck :)

First, I paired a strip of My Mind's Eye Lost and Found paper with a larger piece of orange patterned paper from the My Mind's Eye Simply Delightful stack.

I really wanted to portray a LOT about myself in this layout, so I put a lot of thought into the design. There's the black and cream damask print, pretty ribbon with ruffles and pleats, and butterfly stamps to represent my feminine and girly side. I chose the bright orange accent color, wooden game piece, Grungeboard wings and the distressed stamping to represent my tomboy, distressed and bold personality.

Those Tim fans out there probably already noticed the stamped background. I used all of my favorite sayings stamps (mostly from Mr. Tim) to create a background. By stamping with Wild Honey Distress Ink on the orange paper, I was able to achieve a neat, and bold, watermark effect.

I think this layout really says a lot about me....Just Me.

You Make My World Happy

2011-01-10T03:04:00.000-06:00

I'm not sure why I made this card, or who I'll end up giving it to, but I think it's super cute!

I use my Cricut and the Give a Hoot cartridge to make the adorable squirrels, my Tim Holtz Wood Grain Texture Fade with Walnut Stain Distress Ink to create the background, and a few of my favorite Hero Arts stamps from the Woodland Creatures set to make the accents.

Oh yea...it's a little hard to notice in the photo, but the eyes of the little squirrels are shiny and raised. I used one of my new favorite products, Inkssentials Enamel Accents from Ranger, to give them a more realistic look.

Above Rubies Cricut Cutting Guide

2011-01-08T16:56:00.000-06:00

Hey there bloggers!

I've been telling so many people about the Cricut Cutting Guide from Megan at Above Rubies Studio, so I thought I'd post a link to the guide for those of you who are having trouble finding it :)

Go here, and follow the directions to get the Cricut Cutting Guide. It won't disappoint!

My Man - First LO of the Year!

2011-01-07T17:46:00.000-06:00

For Christmas, I was given 52 More Scrapbooking Challenges by Elizabeth Kartchner from my amazing boyfriend, and I absolutely LOVE it! When I first laid eyes on that book, I didn't pay it much attention because I assumed that it wouldn't really be geared towards my style, but after flipping through it a few times during my break at work, I knew it would be useful.

As many of you know, I don't make a lot of scrapbook pages, so I combined a few of the challenges to help me with this layout. I don't want to reveal too much from the book, so as to not spoil it for any one expecting to get it. I'll just say this - I combined black and white with color, made a list, and used some of my old supplies that were collecting dust!

At work tomorrow, I'll be demoing the Cricut and Gypsy once again, and I like to have samples with me to show off how amazing the Cricut can be. I think I'll take this layout with me :) I used the city border on the Plantin Schoolbook cartridge to create the 11" border on the bottom, and then used clear embossing powder to emboss the entire surface.

Of course, no layout is complete without a touch of Tim, so I used Grungeboard elements, and a few of his stamps. The Grungeboard letters and accents were covered in either black or white Enamel Accents from Ranger. Love how they turned out...

I hope you like it! I must say this is my favorite layout so far this year, hehe :)

New Year and a New Look!

2011-01-06T22:47:00.000-06:00

With the new year here, I thought it would be the perfect time to finally take the time to redo my blog. I've been wanting a new look for a while now - something clean and crisp - and I think I achieved just that!

I drew a lot of my inspiration from Nancy's blog is at Loves to Create - I love how bright and classy her blog is!

I'm sure that all of you Tim fans out there recognize the images in my header. With his permission, I used a few of the images from Tim's line of stamps. They're a few of my favorites :)

I hope you all like the changes! I'm sure that I'll be expanding the pages and features further, so keep an eye out!

Until next time!

One Little Word...

2011-01-06T18:51:00.001-06:00

The past few years I've noticed so many of the bloggers that I follow taking part in One Little Word - if you aren't sure what OLW is, check it out here.

I've decided that I want to try my hand at it this year, and I've chosen my word very carefully.

My One Little Word for 2011 is:

CHERISH

Things in my life have been changing so rapidly. I want to cherish every moment, every day, every event...every smile and every hug. I am making it my goal for 2011 to take absolutely nothing for granted.

Wish me luck and here's to a wonderful, happiness filled 2011!

Stepping Back - A Halloween Layout

2010-11-12T09:00:00.001-06:00

Unlike many of you who scrapbook, I have a hard time remembering (or finding the time) to scrapbook photos I've taken if too much time has passed. I thought I'd take a quick break from all of my Christmas projects, and create a layout for my favorite Halloween pictures from last month.

I have to admit one thing though...I haven't printed those photos yet, so I for the time being, I Photoshopped them onto the layout.

My boyfriend and I didn't plan on dressing up for Halloween, but when we were invited to his brother's Halloween party, we figured it would be fun to throw together some costumes. I did a little research online, and learned how to create fairly realistic wounds out of liquid latex and makeup. I think we made convincing zombies, don't you?

I used a few fun supplies to put together this layout.

Bazzill Cardstock
My Mind's Eye Haunted Collection
Tim Holtz Clear Stamps - Nature's Elements
Tim Holtz Stamps - Odds and Ends
Tim Holtz Stamps - Good Thoughts
Tim Holtz Die - Ticket Strip
Rusty Pickle Stamps
Ranger's Archival Ink - Jet Black
Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Black Soot
Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Aged Mahogany
Tim Holtz Paper Distresser

Giant Santa Tag: Another Tutorial

2010-11-11T14:12:00.000-06:00

Last night, I had the WORST case of crafter's creative block you could imagine. I was sitting in front of tons of awesome Christmas paper, and more paper crafting supplies than I knew what to do with, and couldn't think of any way to use them...that is until my wonderful boyfriend came to my rescue. Keep in mind that while he appreciates all of the things that I'm able to create, this man has absolutely no interest in crafting whatsoever. He knows how much I love making tags, so he pitched his idea of using an extra large tag, strips of the My Mind's Eye Holly Jolly collection that I love so much, my favorite Distress Ink (Walnut Stain of course), and my stamps. He even insisted on red fibers at the top! Isn't it great! I don't know what I'd do without him :-D

Here's a quick tutorial:

Start by covering a #8 manilla tag, like these from Ranger, with the My Mind's Eye Holly Jolly - Holly Berries paper. I used Claudine Hellmuth Studio Multi Medium to secure the paper to the tag. Works wonderfully!

Apply more Studio Multi Medium to two more patterns of paper, and apply them to the tag at an angle. Distress the edges of the added papers by tearing them before the Multi Medium dries completely. Work quickly, or it'll be stuck for good :)

Distress the edges of the tag with the Tim Holtz Paper Distresser, and ink the edges with Walnut Stain Distress Ink.

Blend Stormy Sky Distress Ink into the blue paper, and Aged Mahogany Distress Ink into the red and slightly into the blue. Use Ranger's Jet Black Archival Ink to stamp your favorite santa onto the blue snowflake paper. Use a scrap piece of paper to mask off the edge of the red paper if you're worried about your santa stamp getting on that area.

Using Aged Mahogany Distress Ink, create a watermark effect by stamping on the red paper. You can also stamp various flourishes and script stamps with Archival Ink or Distress Inks all over the tag to create a Christmas collage effect.

Cover the entire tag with Rock Candy Stickles for a vintage glass look, and either allow to dry or dry with a heat tool. The Stickles will slightly feather the Distress Inks, but the Archival Ink won't budge - makes for a great effect! Add red fibers or ribbon to the top to finish it off!

Well, whatta you think? Wasn't his idea great? Leave us a comment and let us know what you thought.

Happy soon to come holidays!

First Santa of the Season!

2010-11-10T20:57:00.000-06:00

Hello!

I am definitely starting to feel the holiday season approaching, and LOVE it! I've been working tons with the December kit from Club Ruby, which is absolutely amazing! If you're interested in joining the awesome Club Ruby community, head over there and sign up!

I thought I'd post a quick Christmas card tutorial to kick off my favorite season of the year!

This card is quick and easy, features my favorite Bo Bunny Santa stamp and my Tim Holtz Fab Flourish stamp, and an eye-catching ribbon pleat!

Here goes:

1) Start with a standard A2 kraft card base. Using Ranger's Jet Black Archival Ink to layer Christmas stamps on the left side of the card.

2) Cut a 1.5x5.25 strip of the My Mind's Eye Haunted Collection. Distress the edges with a paper distresser and ink the edges with Black Soot Distress Ink. Adhere the strip to the right side of the card.

3) Pleat and adhere ribbon down the center of the My Mind's Eye paper. Lightly ink the two left corners of the card with Aged Mahogany Distress Ink.

There you go! A fun and simple card!

I hope everyone is starting to get into the holiday spirit. Check back for more holiday crafts!

A Sweet Domino Keychain

2010-10-08T16:57:00.000-05:00

What a crazy week this has been! Last Friday, I signed my resignation papers at my job, and drove my loaded down little car all the way across the country from Houston, Tx to Flat Rock, MI. Sometimes in life, drastic (and scary) changes are needed, and that is exactly what I decided I needed! So far, I absolutely love it here, and am really enjoying the change of scenery. The leaves are changing color, which I am SO not used to, and the weather is super cool and crisp. The little town I'm living in is so quaint and quiet. Love it...

Anywho, as soon as I had my crafting table unpacked and setup, I got to work making keychains for the new house keys. I used a regular domino with a tiny eye screw screwed into one end. I used a mixture of Alcohol Inks in - Wild Plum, Eggplant, and Pitch Black. After inking the domino and allowing it to dry for a few seconds, I used a Tim Holtz stamp and embossed the domino with black embossing powder. I sealed the whole thing with Super Seal from Creative Imaginations. To add a little jingle...I added a few Tim Holtz Idea-ology pieces to the chain...which was also from the Tim Holtz Idea-ology line :)

Altered Escape October - Margie Romney-Aslett

2010-09-27T05:00:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to share my Altered Escape October class project with everyone!

Each year, Bazzill puts on an amazing event called Creative Escape. They bring in the top scrapbooking names and have each of them teach a class using their own product lines.

Margie Romney-Aslett used her line, The Girls' Paperie, as well as Tim Holtz product and beads from Scarlet Lime Bead Art to create an amazing collage charm necklace!

Scrapp'n Savvy has brought in the exact kits that Margie used to teach her class at Creative Escape, and I am so excited to be teaching the techniques used to make the necklace on October 23rd at 6pm.

The retail value of the product you'll receive is over $65, and get this...the class is only $45!!

You'll actually get enough product to make 2 necklaces easily. The value is un believable!

Because this class uses Margie's kits from Creative Escape, spots are limited, so if you're interested, sign up soon!

To sign up, contact me or Scrapp'n Savvy!

Hello - A Shabby Chic Card

2010-09-26T23:35:00.000-05:00

I made this card today for a special person, and I LOVE how it turned out! I had extra product from the Margie Romney Creative Escape Necklace class kit, so I decided to incorporate some of it into the card. The chipboard letters were the perfect size for this card :)

The card base is 4.25"x5.5" and opens off center from the front. I used the new Prismatics line from Bazzill, and printed paper from the October Afternoon Fly a Kite line.

For the ruffle trim, I used Tim Holtz's Love Is stamp and Timber Brown Stazon Ink on white tissue paper and then adhered it to the bottom of the card a little at a time in order to create the ruffle.

After adding a few stamps here and there on the printed paper, Stickling a Tim Holtz Adage Ticket, and distressing a top note cut from Tim Holtz's Styled Labels Alterations Die...this card was D-O-N-E!

Scrapp'n Savvy Sampler - New Location!

2010-09-26T11:23:00.000-05:00

The Scrapp'n Savvy Sampler was a hit!

Friday and Saturday, crafters were introduced to Scrapp'n Savvy's awesome new location and at least 5 of the teachers, and the larger store with tons of new product lines! They paid only $5 to make a Halloween mini book using the new We R Memory Keepers Heebie Jeebies line. Each instructor designed one of the pages of the book, and I designed the cover (using my favorite new Tim Holtz Rusty Hinge Distress Ink). Karrie was kind enough to allow the instructors to make a mini book too, and I love how great it turned out! I'm giving mine to my sister to fill with photos :)

If you live in the Greater Houston area, I have great news for you! There is a new scrapbooking store in town, and it is worth checking out! While it is only in phase one, construction will continue for the next few months, and will transform Scrapp'n Savvy into the newest and best scrapbooking retreat location in town! Scrapp'n Savvy will be taking reservations for retreats starting in January, so contact them today to book your get-away!

Look for a post about my upcoming Altered Escape classes soon!

Quick Update!

2010-09-04T10:34:00.000-05:00

Hello hello!

I wanted to swing by with a quick update. Life has taken me on an unexpected path, and I couldn't be happier, however, life has also left me with limited crafting time and a terrible internet connection :)

My classes at Scrapp'n Savvy have gone really well! I had two students sign up to make my bird house, and they left happy, and the necklaces that the ladies made in my August class were beautiful! Scrapp'n Savvy will be opening the doors of their permanent location soon...very exciting! I have a lot of class planning to do for the upcoming months, so that means I'll more than likely have some more creations to share with all of you :)

In other news (hehe), Club Ruby has launched, and it is IMPRESSIVE! I am one of the Master Designers for Club Ruby and can attest to the awesomeness that is Club Ruby :) The website is in Beta right now, with a select few members, but when the full launch occurs, I urge you to join!

Again, I apologize for my absence recently, but rest assured...I'll be back soon with more delightfully distressed creations!

She wanted to be an artist...or something

2010-07-20T17:41:00.000-05:00

Hello Hello! It's been a few days since I've worked in my studio, so it felt GREAT to get back in there for a few hours today! I jammed my new Journey Greatest Hits album, and chatted with my mom while I worked.

I wanted to try out the black and purple color combo, and somehow incorporate the new Angel Company stamps that I purchased....and this is what I came up with!

I lightly inked the entire tag with Victorian Velvet Distress Ink, then blended in Dusty Concord. I stamped the images with Jet Black Archival Ink, and the grungy dots in Dusty Concord.

To finish it off, I covered the entire tag with Rock Candy Distress Crackle Paint...and waited and waited and waited for it to dry...

(by the way...that little girl totally looks like me when I was younger...)

So, whatta you think???

Dog Food Soup: A Layout

2010-07-14T01:23:00.001-05:00

I know, I know. Three posts in three days...I'm on a roll!

I really, really, really can't wait to see what everyone thinks of this layout. I used some new materials (card board and lace), and did some things that took me out of my comfort zone (like adhere my photos all crooked!), and it was so much fun!

The photos are of my niece, Che, making dog food soup at my mom's house. It was so great to see her squat down, smile, slowly pick up the dog food bowl, and check to see if anyone was going to stop her before she poured all of it into the water bowl.

Then commenced the splashing around in the Dog Food Soup :)

A few of the products that I used were:

Cardstock: Bazzill Prismatics Suede Brown Medium

Printed Paper: DCWV Rustic Stack

Tim Holtz Distress Inks: Walnut Stain, Tea Dye, Antique Linen, Victorian Velvet

Stamps: Tim Holtz Ultimate Grunge, Good Thoughts, Flights of Fancy

Game Time: An Awesome Tag

2010-07-13T05:00:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone!

I feel like I've been neglecting my bloggers lately, so today I thought I'd share a tag that I made just for fun! It's a rare occasion that I make something that isn't related to my design team work, or a class project, so I'm excited about this one! Let me know what you think!

Products Used:

Distress Ink - Rusty Hinge

Distress Ink - Walnut Stain

Distress Ink - Tea Dye

Distress Ink - Wild Honey

Staz-on Ink - Timber Brown

Alterations Texture Fades - Checkerboard

Alterations Strip Die - Tickets

Tim Holtz Stamps - Game of Life

Tim Holtz Stamps - Ultimate Grunge

Maya Road Wood Bingo Calendar Numbers

Tim Holtz Paper Distresser

Glossy Accents

Pop Dots

Quick Walk Through:

1: Ink entire tag lightly with Rusty Hinge Distress Ink, and blend in sections of

Tea Dye and Wild Honey.

2: With any of those Distress Ink colors, stamp images on the background from the Ultimate Grunge collection, and stamp the saying from the Game of Life collection in Rusty Hinge.

3: Emboss one corner with the Alterations Texture Fades - Checkerboard, and rub the Walnut Stain Distress Ink pad directly onto the embossed areas of the tag.

4: Stamp the Bingo stamp from the Game of Life collection onto a separate piece of cardstock

with the Staz-on Ink, and cut it out.

5: Ink the edges of the bingo image with the Walnut Stain Distress Ink, and distress the edges

with the Paper Distresser.

6: Die cut a ticket with the Alterations Ticket Die, and stamp the ticket image on top with the

Staz-on Ink.

7: Ink the edges of the ticket with Walnut Stain, and distress the edges.

8: Adhere the bingo card, ticket, and game piece to the tag using Glossy Accents (or glue dots). Play with the paper, and roll the edges or crinkle the paper when you adhere it!

9: Distress and ink the edges of the tag.

Enjoy! If you make something similar, let me know! I'd love to see :)

Home Mini Album: A Class

2010-07-12T19:18:00.000-05:00

Hello hello!

I know that I haven't blogged in a few days, but I have been super busy! Today, I want to share a project that I made during a class at Scrapp'n Savvy. Nancy teaches at Scrapp'n Savvy as well. Her class is called Make Mine Mini, and it is SO awesome! You can visit her blog to learn more about her and her projects!

During her class last week, we made this mini album about home. I had never made a mini album before this class, and she made it so easy! She incorporated products from the My Mind's Eye So Sophie line, and images from a House of 3 collection. She even let me do my distressing :)

I can't say enough nice things about this album!

Thanks for a great class Nancy! I'll be back for more!

Look for a few more updates this week, I've got more projects coming!

A "So Sweet" Layout

2010-07-01T10:00:00.000-05:00

Isn't she a doll!

My niece, Che, pulls on some special heart strings of mine. I don't get to see her often, but when I do see her, our similarities amaze me.

There were a few firsts on this layout:

First time using Tim's Caged Bird Die (seriously, why did it take so long?)

First time using Tim's Elegant Flourishes Die (though I've used the pre-cut Grunge Board flourishes)

First time using printed paper as my main background paper (which I kind of like - opinions?)

Main Product used on this layout:

Cardstock: Bazzill Prismatics Sugar Cream

Printed Paper: My Mind's Eye - So Sophie Sisters

Flowers: Bazzill French Vanilla Lily, Prima Hydrangeas

Ink: Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Antique Linen, Walnut Stain, Victorian Velvet, ColorBox Chestnut Roan

Thank you so much for taking the time to stop by my blog.

If you have the chance, leave me a comment, and tell me what your favorite element of this page is...

I'm curious :)

Jello: The Simple Things Part 2

2010-06-30T21:45:00.001-05:00

This is the coordinating layout to the first "Jello" page. Very simple - I didn't want to take away from the photo :)

Isn't that face adorable! Definitely the 'squishing jello between your teeth' face.

The same basic products that were used to create the first page were used int he creation of this one :)

Thanks for stopping by!

Jello: The Simple Things

2010-06-28T21:48:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, my brother and his beautiful (and awesome) wife brought their 4 kids to my mom's house to say goodbye. They are all moving to Missouri today, and we're going to miss them so much!

This layout features their youngest, Che. She is 2, and for some reason, she happens to look and ACT just like me - even though my brother and I don't look alike at all. While they were visiting yesterday, I snapped quite a few photos of her eating (or attempting to eat) Jello on my mom's couch. I got a few hilarious photos, but I'm saving those for another layout.

This layout was inspired by the last class that I took with Karrie Allen at Scrapp'n Savvy. You can see her pages from that class in a video here. All of the layouts that we were taught were interactive, and I LOVED the waterfall page. How perfect if have a lot of photos for one page!

Products Used:
Cardstock - Bazzill
Paper - My Mind's Eye - Simply Delightful
Stamps - Tim Holtz (of course), and Unity
Ink - Ranger Archival Jet Black
Jewels - Bazzill
Alpha Stickers - Thickers

When you pull the waterfall tab down, I have some hidden journaling that reads:

"Che, Your personality amazes me! Each time I'm able to spend time with you, I can't stop smiling! By the way, your Nana never let ME eat Jello on the couch!

Love, Aunt Courtney"

Future Class Sneak Peek

2010-06-26T23:40:00.000-05:00

What a fun day! My husband and I spent the day at the Scrapp'n Savvy studio. While he worked on their website, I worked on a project for a future class.

Normally, I wouldn't show off a project before class, but I just HAVE to give you all a sneak peek of this one. I hope you like this charm bracelet as much as I do!

Last weekend, at the Scrapp'n Sampler, most of the women seemed most intrigued by my August jewelry class, so I've decided to come up with a few more altered jewelry classes!

Product availability and delivery effect the date of this class, so I will keep you all posted!

Thanks for stopping by!

Believe in Dreams

2010-06-24T19:58:00.000-05:00

I really love how this layout came out :) I blame it on the awesome Glee music that I had playing while I worked.

I wanted to stick with black, grey, and white on this page - a lot more difficult than I thought!

You might notice that I used the stamp that Tim gave to my husband (to give to me) :)

The title, Believe in Dreams, was compiled from 3 different packs of rub-ons.

The tag that slips behind the photo mat looks like this:

It says:
"I took this photo in front of Tim's booth to remind me that anything is possible. I'm going to follow my dreams - I can't wait to see where they take me!"

Thanks for taking the time to check this out!

Side note: If you haven't watched Glee, you are missing some seriously awesome stuff :)

Hey Tim - again

2010-06-24T19:50:00.000-05:00

I know that I've already done a layout with this photo, but I wanted to give it another try. I think I like the first page, here, better.

I utilized my new Tim Holtz Tissue Tape (which I totally love), masks, some crackle paint, an element from Tim's new paper, Tim's Alterations Die, and a piece of film strip.

Thanks for looking!

Patchwork Pandemonium - A missed opportunity?

2010-06-21T23:12:00.000-05:00

A little background on this project.

Tim Holtz (you know who that is, right?) teaches a few different classes when he travels from state to state, and one of those is Patchwork Pandemonium. My mom and I got word that Tim would be returning to Texas in August to teach at a store in Plano, and we were planning on signing up for his patchwork class. I would LOVE to take a class with Tim (who wouldn't?), and I am also in great need of a photo with Mario (that was unable to occur the last time we met) :)

Get this, Tim wrote on his blog that he would be retiring the patchwork class. I was so sad! Of course I'll be able to take another class, but still...that thing was cool!

After looking at photos of a few different versions of the project, I figured out the basic measurements, and realized that is was probably something that I could do myself. I emailed Tim, and he was generous enough to give me permission to recreate the project and post it on my blog! What a nice guy :)

This is what I came up with :)

I used SO many of the techniques that I know, and just about every distressing tool and medium that I own. I am so pleased with how it turned out.

Scrapp'n Savvy News

2010-06-21T10:56:00.000-05:00

Scrapp'n Savvy is the local scrapbooking store that I work for, and I am SO excited to announce that www.scrappnsavvy.com was launched today!

I have met the very bet people at Scrapp'n Savvy, and I can't wait to help continue to build it!

If you're interested in signing up for any of my classes, you can now do that, securely, online! If you have the chance today, browse through the site, and let me know what you think :)

Also, this week was my turn to do the weekly layout at Scrapp'n Savvy!

Scrapp'n Sampler Make and Take

2010-06-18T02:30:00.000-05:00

I never realized how time consuming designing and kitting a make and take for 72 students would be, but it will totally be worth it! With permission, I borrowed this awesome make and take packaging idea from my new friend, and fellow teacher, nancy Wyatt! Learn more about her, and her spectacular designing, at her blog.

Today, I will be teaching my very first make and take. I do a lot of online tutorials and videos, but there's nothing like teaching in front of actual people! I must admit that I am slightly nervous, but I can definitely do this :)

I am the only teacher who has joined the Scrapp'n Savvy team that hasn't previously taught, so I'm a little nervous. I will be working with some absolutely wonderful teachers, and with one of my favorite ladies, the owner of Scrapp'n Savvy - Karrie Allen!

So, wish me luck, and if you're in the North Houston area, we would absolutely love to see you! We have sessions at 10am, 1pm, and 4pm today and tomorrow!

The address is:

22907 Briarhorn Dr.

Spring, TX, 77389

Father's Day Card Duo

2010-06-16T19:32:00.000-05:00

I made these two similar cards for my Step Dad, and my Father-in-Law. I love and appreciate both of them, and didn't want to give them a typical Father's Day card. I am 99.97% sure that they won't check my blog before Sunday, so I wanted to show them off a little early :)

Products Used:

Ranger Glossy Paper (not photo paper)
Adirondack Alcohol Inks - Ginger, Latte, Butterscotch, Rust
Adirondack Bronze Mixative
Adirondack Blending Solution
Various Stampers Anonymous Tim Holtz Stamps
Artistic Outpost Stamps
Ranger Black Archival Ink
Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Walnut Stain
Dictionary Paper
Bazzill Cardstock

The effects of the Bronze Mixative is so hard to capture with a camera, but it really is amazing! If you try anything new this week, you have GOT to try Alcohol Inks :)

Have a fantastic Father's Day, and get those fingers inky!

Featured on Paper Maniac

2010-06-15T01:02:00.000-05:00

Hey bloggers!

I just wanted to pop in and let all of you know that this week, all of the Cuttlebug Embossing Folders are on sale at Paper Maniac!

I am featured on the home page with a short tutorial using embossing folders, and would love it if you would take a minute to check it out!

www.papermaniac.com

This is the video that I did this month for Paper Maniac. I sound a little goofy, but it was uber hot in my studio that day so I think I was having a hard time concentrating :)

Thanks, and have an awesome week!

My Inspiration

2010-06-13T03:20:00.001-05:00

It took me a few hours, but with the help of some good tunes and some great coffee, I found my inspiration and finished this layout. I'm currently on a 'stamping with acrylic paint' kick, and lovin' it.

The base of this layout is one of the new Bazzill Prismatics colors. You seriously have to check this stuff out! The texture is amazing! The brown hues remind me of suede, or faux leather. Love it!

Other products used:
Tim Holtz Psychedelic Grunge Stamps
Adirondack Paint Dabber - Butterscotch
Ranger Watermark Resist Ink
Tim Holtz Ruler Ribbon <3
Tim Holtz Texture Fades - Retro Circles
Tim Holtz Idea-ology Philosophy Tags
Tim Holtz Idea-ology Memo Pins
Tim Holtz Idea-ology Journaling Ticket
Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Walnut Stain

I've been working in my studio for over 12 hours today, and I am amazed at what I accomplished! I've really been trying to work in more personal layouts and such into my day so that I have something to share with all of you!

I miss your comments when I don't have anything new to show off!

***Next Friday and Saturday, I'll be doing make and takes with lots of ladies at Scrapp'n Savvy's Scrapp'n Sampler! If you live in Houston, or surrounding areas, you should come check it out! I'm keeping my make and take top secret, but it's going to be great!

If you're interested in attending, let me know and I'll get you all of the information!

Til next time, take care!

Wedding Photos: Finally a Layout

2010-06-09T17:09:00.000-05:00

Well ladies (and gentlemen?), after more than a year of holding on to my wedding photos, I finally put a few of them on a layout!

I used the Fabulous Flourish stamp that Tim Holtz gave me, lots of Grunge Board and Grunge Paper, the Cloudy Blue Paint Dabber, Idea-ology Accoutrement Buttons, Walnut Stain Distress Ink, and Mini Masks.

This layout was SO much fun, and thank goodness for summer - I had time to finish it in just a few days!

GASC Haul and Stories!

2010-06-09T01:54:00.002-05:00

GASC Day 2: Even Amazing-er!

2010-06-05T21:17:00.001-05:00

If it is even possible, today was even greater than yesterday!

Rigo and I woke up early, ate our continental breakfast of eggs and sausage, checked out of our room, and headed straight to the GASC. I wanted to arrive early so that I might have a chance at sitting at Tim's demo table.

We got there 30 minutes before the doors opened, and the line was already from the entrance to the other side of the convention hall. Crazy!

Once they let us in, we managed to get close enough to the table to stand behind the people in chairs for the first demo, and then Rigo (my hero!) snagged me a seat for the second demo he did. We were there for a bout 3 hours! Time just flew by.

Tim did some great demos!

Mario was sick with food poisoning today, so I didn't get a photo with him.

We did a little shopping throughout the convention. Yes, I actually SPENT my money today.

After stopping by the Stampers Anonymous booth a few times (because I kept remembering things that I needed), and walking around the whole place a few times, we thought we were through.

I convinced Rigo to go to Tim's booth once more before we left, and you will NOT believe what happened!

I grabbed a blending tool rack, and headed to the outside of the booth to grab a few more blending tools when Tim crossed my path, heading back to his demo area.

I turned to Rigo, and asked him to ask Tim for the name of his favorite flourish stamp that we'd be talking about all weekend, and where we could find one since the booth was out.

Rigo walks over to his table and said, "Hey Tim, do you know where we can pick up one of those flourish stamps that you have? We've been trying to find one all day."

and get this...

Tim responded with, "Here, take mine. Wait, let me sign it."

And this is where our jaws hit the floor. Rigo and I couldn't even speak, and all of the ladies that were gathered around were in shock! One lady even whined, "what did he do to get THAT!" and Tim told her that he had "just asked."

He seriously is an amazing and generous person.

Now I just have to fight with Rigo for custody of the stamp >.<

GASC Day 1: Amazing!

2010-06-04T19:03:00.000-05:00

Before leaving for the convention, I tweeted Mario, and asked him if he thought it would be possible to get my Tim Holtz book signed. He of course said to bring it, and they would totally get it signed for me.

We walk into the Arlington Convention Center about an hour after the show opened, and Rigo helped me to find the Stampers Anonymous booth in the GASC pamphlet. We made our way to the 700's row, and I could immediately see the massive crowd around Tim (of course).

When we got to the crowd, I unzipped the backpack that Rigo was carrying, and took out my Tim Holtz Compendium of Curiosities book so that I could try to get it signed by Tim and Mario.

As I'm standing there trying to see over people, Rigo kept tapping my shoulder because I was in the way of other people seeing. About the third time he tapped me, I turned around to see Mario smiling, holding his Iphone with Twitter open. He said, "Am I correct?" and shows me my Twitter photo.

Mario Rossi RECOGNIZED ME!

He had me write my name on a business card and put it in the book, and set it next to Tim to sign! I was so stoked! I didn't want to look like a creeper standing around for an hour, so we did a little shopping in the Stampers Anonymous booth, had Mario sign my book, and left.

Then, I suddenly realized that we hadn't taken a picture with Tim!

We had to go back :)

When we got there, Tim was just taking a break, and one of the great ladies working the booth said she would take a photo of us all, so Rigo could get in the photo too!

As we're standing there posing for the picture, Tim looks over to my necklace, that I made out of his products, and asked me if I made it! He thought it was great, and we ended up having a conversation for a few minutes about why materials other than stinky resin aren't any good for jewelry that is meant to be worn!

I had a conversation with Tim Holtz!!

That's right folks. That is me (looking all goofy), and my husband Rigo posing for a photo with the one and only Tim Holtz!

What. A. Day!

Looking forward to going back for day 2 tomorrow!

An Adventure!

2010-06-03T20:49:00.000-05:00

Hello all of my crafty friends!

I am SO excited! My husband and I are leaving very early tomorrow morning to drive to Arlington, Tx to attend the Great American Scrapbook Convention!

We have tickets for Friday and Saturday! I can't wait to meet Tim Holtz and Mario!

Check my Twitter throughout the next two days for updates!

You Are My Sunshine - Swaps for work

2010-06-03T09:00:00.001-05:00

The theme for this month's 4x6 swap at work is quilting. I love sewing small projects on my sewing machine, but I am in no way, form, or fashion, a quilter. So, once again, I was nervous. I couldn't bring myself to just do squares or basic shapes like a lot of quilts are (I think), so I chose to make a design with paper, and 'stitch' it together.

I am so happy with how they turned out!

The paper that I used was from Graphic 45 and Three Bugs in s Rug, and the base was Bazzill Cardstock (of course).

I hope you like them! Have a sun-shiney day!

Fabric Florals

2010-06-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

I have been having so much fun playing around with different ways to make these beautiful fabric flowers! I'm planning on incorporating these into one of my classes this summer, but I am still in the planning stages for that project :)

Aren't they just beautiful!

On a side note...only one more week of work until

Summer Break

and

MEETING TIM HOLTZ!

Just sayin' :)

Quickie!

2010-05-31T00:48:00.000-05:00

Oh. My. Goodness!

I know it's late, but

my fingers are sticky with glue...

and I am IN LOVE with these flowers!

More photos soon...I can't wait to find something fun to do with these!

Simple Tag, Favorite Stamp

2010-05-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

Hello hello!

I thought I'd swing by real fast to show everyone this quick tag I threw together. I'm not sure yet what I'll use it for, but I do know that I am in LOVE with that bird cage stamp, designed by Tim Holtz (of course).

I used a few more Tim Holtz Stamps, three shades of the blue Distress Inks, and some Adirondack Dimensional Pearls in Espresso. I love the cool color in contrast to the stark Staz-on Jet Black ink.

Simple tag, but so calming and therapeutic to make. The best part about this hobby is taking familiar products and creating something, no matter how simple, without thinking and actually having the possibility of it turning out to look decent.

Leave me some love, and let me know what you think! I love reading comments, especially while I'm trying my very best to make it through these last few weeks of work before summer vacation :)

Besides Crafting

2010-05-23T01:01:00.000-05:00

I know it's hard to believe, but I actually had something ELSE to do on Saturday, besides hang out in my craft room! While I missed getting my hands messy, it was fantastic visiting family that I hadn't seen in quite some time.

This beautiful girl turned 16 yesterday. Her name is Havah, and my grandparents adopted her when she was just a baby. Technically, she's my aunt...weird :) For her birthday, she asked for jewelry - so of course I made her some! My mom and I used steel washers to make her two necklaces. I didn't get any decent pictures of them before giving them to her, but she's wearing one of them in this photo:

and my grandpa is showing off both of them in this photo:

Here's a few more photos from the party :)

Just thought I'd show you what I'd been up to this weekend. Have a wonderful Sunday!

Weekend Sale!

2010-05-20T14:17:00.000-05:00

Paper Maniac Weekend Sale!

All stamps, single and sets, are 20% off, all weekend long!

Use the coupon code:
WEEKEND 20

when checking out to recieve your discount.

Click here to shop!

Hand Me a Stamp WEBSITE!

2010-05-17T00:00:00.001-05:00

Thanks to my wonderful, caring, supportive, awesomely genius husband...

the new www.handmeastamp.com is LIVE!

There are still a few things to finish, like adding more photos of my work, but I am SO proud if the work that he did and excited to share with all of you!

Rigo designed and made functional every single element to this website, and I couldn't be happier.

If you're interested in my upcoming classes, you can keep an eye on my events calendar, or if you're looking for some inspiration, you can browse my photos! There are even direct links to blog, and twitter!

Check it out! I absolutely CANNOT wait to hear what you think of the new site!

Finally, A Personal Page!

2010-05-16T02:40:00.001-05:00

I'm not sure if y'all have noticed, but it has been For-Ever since I last posted a project that I did NOT design for one of the companies that I work for.

This weekend, I got a short break from my deadlines and was able to make a personal layout with a photo from my honeymoon in Vegas, which was over a year ago, which shows how often I actually scrapbook :)

The inspiration behind this layout was the tag shown in the photo. I made it a few weeks ago, and it's just been lying on my desk begging to be put to good use :) If you'd like to see better photos of the tag, you can visit that posting here.

I used Bazzill cardstock as my base, Tank Green Core'dinations, and the printed paper is from the My Mind's Eye Home collection.

I would absolutely LOVE to hear what you think! I don't design personal layouts very often, so I tend to forget how much fun it is to have no guidelines to follow :)

Best Garage Sale Ever: Continued!

2010-05-09T20:48:00.000-05:00

Well ladies...my mom and I decided to take one last venture to that crazy garage sale from last weekend, and boy-o-boy was it worth it! We got there extremely early (for a Saturday), and were the first people there. The two men running the sale soon informed us that the crafty lady of the house was in her craft room sorting through more stuff to sell. Before we knew it, the woman had her teenage son bringing out box after box of stuff for us to look through. Most of the stuff was BRAND NEW! We're talking Tim Holtz products, Prima flowers, Ranger products, Xyron machines, ribbons and buttons, Prismacolor Pencils, Tattered Angel's Glimmer Mist...just a crazy assortment of goodness! The men loaded our haul into my mom's truck on a dolly, and we still had a few smaller boxes that we loaded by hand...all for $60!

We got everything home, sorted through it, and cleaned it up, and then for about an hour...we just starred...

My wonderful momma posted the photos we took on her new blog.

If you thought last weekend's haul was an awesome find, you have to check out the photos from this weekend!

I told my mom that this was karma. Looks like we are the good people we try to be :)

Pretty in Pink, with a Splash of Flowers...

2010-05-03T12:04:00.000-05:00

That was the theme for our very first 4x6 swap with the ladies at work. I was less than thrilled. Pink? Flowers? Oh brother...definitely not my style, right? Wrong. I made it work, and I am SO excited with what I came up with :) We'll be swapping at work today. I can't wait to see what the other ladies created!

I used Bazzill card stock as my base, and My Minds Eye patterned paper. The flowers are Prima and are held down by a Flat Broke Bazzill brad. The bird was stamped in Stazon Timber Brown.

I sure hope the ladies like them!

The Worlds Best Garage Sale!

2010-05-02T22:53:00.000-05:00

Holy Macaroni! You all will not believe what happened today. If you read my last post, but awesome Father-in-Law bought me a huge box of wood mounted stamps from a garage sale. There was some seriously great stuff in there!

This morning, while I was out running errands with my mom and dad, I get a phone call from my Mother-in-Law saying that they had been back in the area of that same garage sale, the people were still out there, and that I really needed to stop by.

~~Now pause for a second. When a crafty girl, like myself, hears that there was some 'art stuff' at a garage sale, we really aren't expecting much. Most of the time, 'art stuff' consists of someone's old arts and crafts box under a table on their drive way. ~~

I couldn't resist. We were already in the area...why not swing by.

We. Hit. The Motherload.

There were boxes, and boxes, and BOXES of scrapbooking supplies! It had been sitting in storage for a while, in the Texas heat, so some of it was ruined from the moisture in the air, but there were TONS of never been opened, unmounted rubber stamps, and punches, and embellishments, and and and...just plain awesomeness! It was hot, so very hot, but we endured, and went through every single box they had. So much of it hadn't been opened, or was only slightly used...it was seriously unreal.

We took everything we purchased home, wiped everything clean with baby wipes, and took these photos with my husbands phone:

For all of this, we paid only $20 :)

What. A. Steal.

Then, when I got home tonight. I found out that my in laws had purchased a few stamps for me while they were there...

Best garage sale weekend EVER!

Have a happy week everyone!

Once in a lifetime deal: A gift from Senor

2010-05-02T02:22:00.000-05:00

No, ladies, that is NOT just the messy desk of a scrapbooker...that, my dear friends is what my awesome father-in-law snagged for me at an early garage sale this morning!

He paid $5 for the whole box of stamps! There are tons of old Stampin' Up sets that haven't even been mounted, and even more wood mounted stamps that need to be cleaned up, and possibly unmounted. I'm stoked...that is a HUGE pile of stamps :)

I hope everyone had an amazingly, productive, National Scrapbooking Day! Mine was fantastic! My mom and I spent the morning at By Design Scrapbook Boutique, and participated in their VIP Project Runway, which involved 3 make and takes, and some great discounts on shopping. We've been in our scrappin' room since arriving home. Gotten lots done, and it feels great! I can't share everything because some of it was for design teams, and Mother's Day gifts, but look for some updates later this week witha few projects :)

Tah-tah for now!

Long Term Project: A first

2010-04-25T16:57:00.000-05:00

I promise that I did not drop off the face of the earth! I normally try to post a few projects a week, but that has definitely been a challenge this week. I've been doing a lot of design work for a few of the scrappin' companies that I work for, and since I obviously can't post all of that on my blog, that only leaves personal work to share.

I thought I could have my very first chipboard mini album finished in time to share this weekend, but holy-smokes these take a while! I took photos of what I have so far...it isn't much :) I can't wait to show all of you when it's done!

Here's your sneak peek!

Scrapp'n Savvy - Page of the Week

2010-04-19T08:01:00.000-05:00

Hello, and happy Monday!

I am so excited to announce that today, my very first page of the week that I designed for Scrapp'n Savvy is up for sale! If you don't live in the north Houston area, Karrie, the wonderful owner of Scrapp'n Savvy offers shipping!

The kits comes complete with all of the Bazzill card stock you'll need, as well as printed paper, tags, flowers, embroidery floss, Tim Holtz goodies, and printed instructions!

If you're interested in purchasing this kit or taking classes, hop over to Scrapp'n Savvy's website to learn more!

Tattered Florals - A Grunge Flower Tutorial

2010-04-14T00:01:00.074-05:00

Tim Holtz's Grunge Roses are popping up on blogs and projects everywhere, so I thought I'd give you all a Courtney style tutorial on how they're made. I first made these during Tim's 12 Tags of Christmas, and absolutely fell in love with the technique...but some how managed to forget to make them for a few months. They look beautiful when they are made from Grunge Paper, as they were on my Christmas tags, but this time, I chose to use a heavy card stock.

I used the following supplies on my roses:

Tim Holtz Sizzix Alterations Die - Tattered Florals
Recollections Card Stock
Prima Clear Stamp - Music Notes
Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Vintage Photo and Walnut Stain
Shimmer Color Spray
Ranger's Glossy Accents

Begin by cutting out three of one of the 6 petal flowers on the Tattered Florals die.

Cut one petal off of one flower, cut 2 petals off of another, and on the third, just cut between 2 petals to the center.

Ink the edges of the flowers with Walnut Stain Distress Ink, and stamp the Music Notes stamp with Vintage Photo.

Spray the flowers with your choice of a shimmery color spray.

Be creative with this part! I made my own spray using Tim Holtz's Distress Ink Re-inker in Vintage Photo, Forever Red Perfect Pearls, and water! You can watch my video on making your own mist on my YouTube Channel.

Apply Glossy Accents to one petal, and adhere the flower to itself in a cone shape. You may have to hold it for a few seconds to help the glue set.

Use a pencil, or the like, to roll the petals on all the flowers.

Try varying the way in which you roll the petals - some tight and some loose.

From largest to smallest, stack and glue the flowers together.

You may have to snip 1/8 inch or so off of the ends in order for them to sit nicely together. Trimming the end off of the smallest piece is definitely essential.

Ta-dah! You have a beautiful rose!

Use a heavy does of Glossy Accents, hot glue, or even glue dots to adhere this beautiful creation to a card, scrapbook layout, or even some sort of home accent :)

I'd love to see the awesome roses you all come up with! Send photos :)

Ms Bright Side Award!

2010-04-13T03:00:00.002-05:00

My wonderful friend, Bonnie, gave me this awesome award the other day! Her blog is so amazing, which matches her personality to a T! She updates daily with great projects, so I always have something to read. I love getting these things! It reminds me that there are people out there actually looking at my work, and getting to know me! I do have to say though...the picture reminded me of one of the characters in that creepy movie, Coraline :)

Now it's my turn to share 10 things that make me happy, 5 pieces of trivia about myself, and pass this on to 5 other bloggers!

10 things that make me happy:

My husband
My Mom and Dad
My dog, Rose
My Macbook Pro :)
Inky Fingers and a finished project
Shopping, not necessarily spending money though
All 7 of my jobs
Coffee
A good song on the radio
Living life - I am so blessed to wake up each day to the life I have!

5 facts about me:

I've only been paper crafting for about 10 months.
I have a condition called Gilbert's Syndrome that makes it difficult to consume spicy foods or beer - which I can't stand any way. My real dad's name is Gilbert.
I am, and always will be, a musician. I was a drum line captain in high school.
During my entire 21st year, including a honeymoon in Vegas, I can count on one hand how many times I've been carded for alcohol/gambling.
There is a news reporter in my town with the same first and last name. Since my wedding last year, I've been asked if I had heard of her about two hundred times.

5 Blogger friends - I don't know many bloggers personally, but I'm going to award this to bloggers that brighten my day when I read their posts!

First Anniversary - A Rose for my Hubby

2010-04-11T00:01:00.001-05:00

Today is mine and my husband's first wedding anniversary, and this is the card that I made for him! He got an Apple Ipad as his 'anniversary gift', but I had to at least make him a card to give him today.

I made this card using the Give a Hoot Cricut Cartridge, The DCWV Green Stack, Recollections Card Stock, Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Walnut Stain, and the Tim Holtz Sizzix Alterations Dies- Baroque, and Tattered Florals.

Rigo and I have a pet hedgehog, named Hedgie, that he absolutely adores. When I saw this cute little guy on the Give a Hoot cartridge, I knew that I had to get that cartridge! I made the rose using the Tim Holtz Grunge Rose technique. I did a short tutorial on that technique that I will post later this week.

Rigo and I met in high school, and were meant in heaven to be friends forever. Though today is only our first wedding anniversary, we've spent many years together. A good friends of mine from high school will tell you that when Rigo and I first started dating, I told her that I was going to marry him one day. I did. In the past 8 years, we've watched, and helped, each other grow. Through tough times and good times, we've always been there for each other. Our love for each other is so special. He's my very best friend, number one supporter, and my rock. He keeps me grounded when I need to be held down, and gives me the boost I need when it's time to fly. I strive to be the best wife and friend that I can for him.

Happy Anniversary, Rigo!

Organized Distress

2010-04-08T00:01:00.001-05:00

Today, I am celebrating my birthday (WOO! 22!), but I thought I'd share with all of you a quick fix that I am now utilizing in my craft room!

Between my mom and I, we have just about every color of the Tim Holtz Distress Inks. I use them in ~~almost~~ every single project that I do, so you can image what it's like to look at this:

and have to guess where a certain color might be hiding - then, digging through all of them only to realize that the color I wanted is actually on my mom's desk behind me....ugh.

So, I took a few minutes to remedy the problem :)

Sunshine Award!

2010-04-07T08:04:00.000-05:00

Hello, hello! I am so pleased to tell you all that I was given the Sunshine Award from Cheryl at Cheryl's Window. I was so surprised to find that she had chosen me as one of the recipients for this award! My goal, when starting this blog, was to inspired and teach people by sharing what I know, and I love knowing that someone out there appreciates it. Thank you Cheryl!

I believe it is now my duty to pass this award to more people. Here goes!

1) Nancy - Loves to Create
2) Bonnie - A Life Unrehearsed
3) Wendy (my mom!) - Wendy's Crafty Ways
4) Judit - Blooming Crafts
5) Jen - Jen With Sprinkles
6) Nilda - Paper Creations
7) Amy - Prairie Paper and Ink
8) Aymee - A Scraphappy Southernbelle
9) Emily - Emmie Lou Who Stamps and You
10) Stephanie - Handmade Creations by Stephanie

Escape - late night inspiration

2010-04-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

This tag is what happens when I decide to stay up to the wee hours of the morning in my craft room, drinking Red Bull and listening to my Darius Rucker radio station on Pandora.

A few weeks ago, I purchased about a yard of butterfly fabric from the Hobby Lobby remnants section. It had been sitting on my desk since, due to a lack of inspiration on my part. It suddenly hit me that maybe, just maybe, Distress Inks would blend well on the khaki colored fabric, and give life to one of those Monarch Butterflies. Sure enough, they did! I had one problem though...The fabric was fraying every where! It isn't apparent in the photos, but Distress Stickles saved the day! I applied coordinating Distress Stickles over various sections of color, and voila! the fabric no longer frayed and my butterfly was glistening in the ~~sun light~~ Ott-Lite.

Once I held in my hand this awesome creation, I couldn't just throw him in a drawer, and crack open another energy drink! I pulled out one of my tags, that I purchased from Tim Holtz during the 12 Tags of Christmas), a few of my new Tim Holtz stamp sets, Distress Inks - of course, some 7 gypsies Paper Tape, and some wire. I am in l-o-v-e with what I came up with. I hope you like it too!

Tim Holtz Sizzix Alterations

2010-04-05T08:02:00.001-05:00

Non Functional, but Cute!

2010-04-04T15:07:00.000-05:00

First of all - Happy Easter! I hope everyone is enjoying time with their family, hunting for eggs, or doing what ever it is that is special to them.

This weekend has been a little tough for my family. My parents made the tough decision to put down our family pet of 7 years (she was about 9), Phoebe. She developed a spine conditioned that prevented her from walking, and she was a lot of pain. We know she is in a much better place now, but Mom definitely needed some cheering up...so we spent a LOT of time in our craft room this weekend :)

This was my very first altered clipboard! My mom has made them before, as well as a few ladies from work, but I hadn't ever felt the inspiration to make one, until now!

Products used:

Paper - My Mind's Eye
Flowers - Prima and Bazzill Basics
Tim Holtz Distress Inks - Rusty Hinge, Stormy Sky, Dusty Concord, Aged Mahogony, Walnut Stain
Lace Trim
Bazzill Jewels
Mod Podge - Matte
Clip board

This was such a relaxing project to work on. The paper from My Mind's Eye is glittered and embossed, so when inked with Distress Ink, you get a really neat effect! I just HAD to add the jewels on the damask design, which I cut out of My Mind's Eye paper as well, so the clip board really won't function for the purpose it's meant for. I bet it will make an excellent wall decoration and note holder :)

And the winner is...

2010-03-27T12:15:00.002-05:00

Dawn says...

Great tutorial sweetie!
I am already a follower and would be thrilled to win all this fab supplies. I am also having a giveaway on my blog...so stop by and enter.

Congratulations Dawn!
You're the winner of everything needed to make my last tag! You'll be receiving the following:

Tim Holtz Acrylic Stamp Set - Urban Grunge
An Acrylic Block
2 sets of Tim Holtz Mini Masks
Distress Ink - Victorian Velvet
Distress Ink - Walnut Stain
An Ink Blending Tool
Distress Stickles - Rock Candy
A package of white tags
A Tim Holtz Trinket Pin
and 10 inches of My Minds Eye Ribbon

Thank you so much to everyone who entered and is now following my blog! I more than tripled my followers last week! You all fantastic, and I promise this won't be the last give away!

Look for new posts this weekend! Lots going on!

BIG NEWS!!!

2010-03-23T07:42:00.002-05:00

Wait until you hear this awesome story!

I post regularly on a thread meant to promote blog hopping on the Split Coast Stampers website. The idea is that you leave a response on the thread, then visit the blog belonging to the person above you. Time after time after time, I found that I was posting after the same great lady. Her name is Bonni Rose, and she has some GREAT stuff on her blog. Just moments after leaving my latest comments on her blog, I received an amazingly sweet email from her. She told me that she had forwarded my blog address to Patti Olson, the owner of the online store Paper Maniac, because she had been looking for a Tim Holtz product educator for her design team. Bonni insisted that I too contact Patti if I was interested in the position.

At first, I was a little hesitant because I had been so focused and excited about being a Master Designer with Above Rubies Studio, but I didn't have anything to lose by contacting Patti, so I did. The rest is history.

I was asked to be the Tim Holtz Product Educator for the Paper Maniac Design Team! I am SO super stinkin' excited! I'll be posting projects several times a month for Paper Maniac, focusing on the distressed and altered art style of paper crafting!

If I don't already, I will soon have links to all of the other girls on the team on my sidebar. Be sure to check out Bonni's blog to hear her side of the story, and her awesome news, and then visit Paper Maniac and sign up for her bi-weekly newsletters!

Be sure to check the post below for my giveaway!

Rak and Tutorial: Just like I promised!

2010-03-22T22:13:00.001-05:00

I have a very special surprise for all of you!

First of all, thank you all so much for being so great! I more than doubled the number of followers on this blog in 1 day! You won't be disappointed! Make sure you read this tutorial entirely...all the way to the end :)

This tag was made almost entirely of Tim Holtz products. If you have been following my blog for more than about 10 minutes, you probably know that I love Tim Holtz, his ideas, and his products.

Here is exactly what I used:

A medium size white tag
An Ink Blending Tool
Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Walnut Stain and Victorian Velvet
Tim Holtz Acrylic Stamps - Urban Grunge
Tim Holtz Mini Masks - Floret
Distress Stickles - Rock Candy
Tim Holtz Trinket Pin
Acrylic Block
My Minds Eye Ribbon

How it's made

Step 1) With light pressure, apply the Victorian Velvet Distress Ink to the background of the tag. Keep it very light! Place a few of the Mini Masks on the tag

Step 2) With the same color of Distress Ink, apply another layer of ink on the tag. I used heavier pressure on the edges of the tag, and lighter pressure in the center to give it a nice effect. Because the masks are clear, you can see what your tag will look like when they are removed, before they are removed. That way, if you want to make any changes before you remove them, you can! When it looks right, remove the masks. They can be cleaned up later with a little soap and water if needed.

Step 3) Distress the edges of the tag with a paper distressing tool, or just a pair of scissors. Then, heavily ink the edges of the tag with Walnut Stain Distress Ink. Now is your chance to give the masked off areas a little more color if you choose to.

Step 4) Using Walnut Stain Distress Ink, stamp your main images on your tag.

Step 5) Now, using the Victorian Velvet Distress Ink, fill the background with stamps. A neat thing about Distress Inks is that you are able to layer the same color over and over, creating somewhat of a watermark look. You'll notice that the Victorian Velvet blends well with the background that I created using the same color.

Step 6) Rock Candy Distress Stickles can add a really neat, and totally clear, shine to your project. Apply the Stickles by squeezing some on your finger and spreading it out to a very thin layer. Stickles is meant to be applied this way, and not thick as most glitter glue. Another cool tip? You can dry Distress Stickles with a heat gun to speed up the process! Don't try that with regular Stickles though...trust me.

Step 7) Add some ribbon and a Tim Holtz Trinket Pin, and you have a beautiful tag that be given as a gift, placed on a gift, or kept as a memento of the awesome work you've done :)

Are you ready for the really cool part of this tutorial???

Everything that I used to make this tag:

will be given away to a lucky winner, whose name with be drawn using random.org this Saturday at 12pm CDT

All you have to do is leave a comment on this post and be a follower! Good luck, and thank you!!!

Hubby Gets the Credit

2010-03-21T09:42:00.000-05:00

Good morning!

I just wanted to swing by and let all of my awesome followers know that when I reach 100 followers, I'll be giving away a super duper cool and unique RAK...and get this: it was my husband's idea! I'm going to keep it a secret for now, but spread the word! As of right now, I'm at 63 followers. I wonder how long it will be until I'm at 100 :)

Above Rubies Studio - Mini Project

2010-03-19T19:48:00.000-05:00

Hey Folks!

I'm a little late updating this, but Megan at Above Rubies Studio posted a mini preview project that I submitted for the design team. Check it out here!

Enjoy the Journey - Finally a Teenager

2010-03-19T01:29:00.000-05:00

I made this card tonight for one of my students. Last Friday, right before Spring Break, was his birthday and all of his other teacher's got him gifts. Luckily, he went home before I could see him, so he doesn't know that it wasn't ready in time :) I realized something very important today; teenage boys are more difficult to make things for than grown men! It must have taken me an hour to figure out what I was going to do. I searched my Cricut cartridges over and over hoping to find something to cut out for the card, but never found anything just right, so I turned to my tried and true techniques from Tim - those always work :)

The base of the card is Java Bazzill Cardstock.
The blue and brown patterned paper is from the Making Memories Just Chillin' stack.
The stamps and inks are Tim Holtz's.

A Little Birdie Told Me So

2010-03-19T01:19:00.000-05:00

I saw a video recently, by Jennifer McGuire, on embossing resist, and loved how she did it! I've done the technique before, but never with a silhouetted image. I super duper really really wish I could find the Hero Arts silhouette stamps here, but I haven't had much luck. I substituted Inkadinkado's Birds Galore stamp set. They were the closest stamps to a silhouette that I could find, and I was pretty well pleased with how they turned out!

I covered K&Company chipboard tags with dictionary paper using Mod Podge, and dried them well with my heat tool (my impatience kicking in again). I then embossed the stamps on the tags with clear embossing powder. Using Tim Holtz Distress Inks (mostly the new colors) and an ink blending tool, I covered the tags in deep rich colors. I then took a damp paper towel, and wiped the embossed areas clean of ink. Aren't they beautiful?!?!

I'd also like to make a note that I L-O-V-E the new way that I've been photographing my work lately. I think it looks so much cleaner, and is way easier to do, than the way I was doing it before :)

Filming, DO NOT ENTER

2010-03-18T12:42:00.000-05:00

This project has a story. As you might have read in a previous post, I moved all of my crafting stuff to my mom's house a few miles down the road. She turned my old bedroom into a craft room for us, and it just didn't make sense to keep loading up my stuff every weekend to go craft at her house, and then lug it all home to my itty bitty desk. I've also started shooting tutorial videos, which I of course have to do at her house where all of my stuff is. Well, family is always visiting, and people are in and out of her house, so it was getting semi-annoying to announce to the whole house that I was about to start filming so no one would come barging into the room...hence, a sign :)

This is a super easy project, and doesn't involve a lot. Enjoy!

Materials Used:

Plain Wooden Sign
Acrylic Paint
Paper - Graphic 45
Mod Podge, or another decoupage medium
Stazon Ink
Tim Holtz Stamp Set - Captured Moments
Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Walnut Stain
Ink Blending Tool
Foam Brush
Cricut Expression
Storybook Cricut Cartridge

Step 1: Paint your wooden sign a solid color with acrylic paint, and allow to dry.

Step 2 and 3: Using your decoupage medium, glue down your paper and allow it to dry. I 'allowed' mine to dry with a heat tool :) Try to keep the glue from getting on the top of your paper. That will make stamping on it later a lot easier.

Step 4 and 5: Using Stazon Ink, stamp various images on the background of your sign. The lip on my sign didn't allow for an acrylic block to fit, so I used the stamp with my hands. It made for an awesome distressed look.

Step 6: Ink over the background with Walnut Stain Distress Ink. It's amazing to watch how the ink brings out the tearing on the paper.

Step 7: Seal the background with your decoupage medium.

Step 8: I cut my words out with the Cricut Expression, using the Storybook Cartridge. The larger letters were cut at 2.25 inches, and the smaller letters were cut at 1.25 inches. Using the decoupage medium, I glued them down where I wanted them, and sealed them over with more decoupage.

It's that easy! I hope you all find this helpful! Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty - give it a try!

Mod Podge, Meet Distress

2010-03-18T12:22:00.000-05:00

Materials Used:

Large chipboard letters
Brown Acrylic Paint
Mod Podge, or other decoupage medium
Paper, Graphic 45
Tim Holtz Stamp Sets (Regal Flourish Urban Grunge Captured Moments Going Somewhere)
Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Walnut Stain
Ink Blending Tool
Stazon Ink
Hot Glue Gun
Heat Tool
Sanding Tool
Sawtooth Picture Hangers
Foam Brushes
Craft Knife

Step 1: Start with a plain large chipboard letter.

Step 2 and 3: Using acrylic paint and a foam brush, paint the letter a solid color. I use my acrylic block (for stamping) as my paint palette.

Step 4: Using your decoupage medium, begin gluing down your paper. You can use one solid piece of paper, or glue down bits of paper for a collage effect. Try to keep from getting glue on the top of the paper. This will make it easier to stamp on the letter later.

Step 5: Allow your letter to dry. If you're impatient like me, you can use a heat tool to speed up the process :)

Step 6: Turn the letter over, and use a craft knife to trim up the edges. If you want a more distressed look, you can always tear the paper off the edge.

Step 7: Rough up the edges a little with a sanding block.

Step 8 and 9: Using Stazon Ink, and your favorite stamps, decorate the front of your letter. Allow the ink to dry completely.

Step 10: Ink up the edges with Walnut Stain Distress Ink. I also blended the ink onto the whole letter in order to enhance the torn paper edges.

Step 11 and 12: Seal your letter with another coat of decoupage medium. I used a heat tool to speed up the drying time. I am SO impatient when it comes to waiting for glue to dry :)

Step 13 through 15: Using a pencil, mark the holes for the sawtooth picture hanger, and hot glue it down.

Step 16: Hang it up, or give it to someone you love!

A Perfect Pair

2010-03-07T16:48:00.002-06:00

You Lucky Ducks! I posted another video today on my You Tube Channel! I've recieved a few requests for tutorials on the different uses of Perfect Pearls, which is awesome because those are some of my favorite products to work with!

In this video, I used the following products:

Ranger's Perfect Pearls - Patina Blue
Ranger's Perfect Medium
Tim Holtz Stamps

After the video, I added a few finishing touches. I can't wait to hear what you all think! You have no idea how much I value the opinions of my followers :)

Shimmer Spray: So Distressed

2010-03-07T16:29:00.000-06:00

Hello Hello!

Good news! I'm not sick anymore! I have been super sick with some weird stomach virus since last weekend, and couldn't be happier that I'm feeling better. When I got the news that I was chosen as a Master Designer for the Club Ruby Design Team, I was SO EXCITED, but SO did not feel well. My hubby is taking me out to celebrate tomorrow :)

I finally got around to shooting a video that I've been promising on creating your own, custom shimmer spray. I did my best to not call it Glimmer Mist, which is a spray from Tattered Angels, so I got a little tongue tied in the video. I hope you like it! If anyone has any suggestions on how to better set up my camera, please let me know! I'd like to know how people shoot their videos directly over their hands.

Above Rubies Design Team: Master Designer!!!!

2010-03-01T08:10:00.000-06:00

I told you I had some exciting news to announce today! I've been chosen as a Master Designer for the Above Rubies Studio Design Team! I absolutely cannot WAIT to get started working with Megan and the other wonderful ladies she selected!

Happy Birthday Bryan!

2010-02-28T19:46:00.000-06:00

I made this awesome DUDE card for my step dad. His birthday is on Wednesday, but I'm pretty sure he doesn't frequent my blog, so I don't think he'll see this :)

Products used were:

Paper Studio Craft Cards

Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Walnut Stain

Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Wild Honey (new!)

Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Tea Dye

Assorted Tim Holtz Stamps

Tim Holtz Paper Distressing Tool

Paper Studio Brads

Razzill Dazzill Bazzill: Belated Photos

2010-02-28T19:38:00.000-06:00

I completely forgot that I had taken photos at the Razzill Dazzill Bazzill class with Karrie Allen at Scrapp'n Savvy. My mom and I invited a few ladies from, as well as a friend of mine from high school, to come with us. I don't have photos of the completed layouts, but you can view them here on Karrie's blog.

Look how much fun we had :)

Reconstruction

2010-02-24T20:59:00.001-06:00

Hey Everyone!

I'm preparing to do a few changes to my blog. I want to apologize in advance if anything should go wrong.

Wish me luck!

Brightly Distressed: A video tutorial

2010-02-22T06:50:00.006-06:00

did it! My husband was so sweet and bought me the Flip Mino HD video camera, so I had to shoot a tutorial this weekend. We had some family stuff going on, so I didn't get it done until last night, but it's up on YouTube none the less. I was SO nervous, so I know I sound a little strange. I'm hoping practice will improve my movie skills :)

Enjoy, and please subscribe, rate, and comment :)

EDIT: The audio is fixed!

Mini Shopping Haul Video

2010-02-15T23:20:00.000-06:00

Hey there!

Welp, my mom and I spent the entire day shopping since we had the day off from work, so I took the opportunity when we got home to shoot my first video. I think I sound rediculous, but I'm hoping that's just my opinion :) I've since uploaded to my YouTube Channel. Be looking out for more, and better, videos!

You Make My World Happy!

2010-02-14T10:09:00.000-06:00

I thought I'd swing by real fast and show everyone the card that I made for my husband's valentine. I used the Paisly Cricut Cartridge, paper from the Die Cuts With a View Rustic Premium Stack, and a stamp from Hero Arts Woodland Creatures stamp sets.

Rigo was my first Valentine, and will be my last. Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Spend it with those that you love!

Above Rubies Studio Design Team: Wish Me Luck!

2010-02-13T23:56:00.000-06:00

Have you all missed me??? I know it's been a few days since I last posted, but I can finally post photos of what I've been up to! Megan, from Above Rubies Studio, emailed me last week and informed me that she was accepting applications for her design team. How could I turn down such an opportunity! I didn't want to post photos of my projects all over the internet until I had submitted my application, and just a few minutes ago, I DID! Here is some of what I submitted:

This was my very first layout that wasn't from some sort of kit, or shown at a class :) I used the Paisley Cricut Cartridge for those super cute muchrooms, and the paper and ribbon is from the My Minds Eye - Enlightened set.

This layout was so much fun! That adorable face plastered all over it is my dog, Jack. He's no longer with us, but I just HAD to do a layout with that photo. On his first birthday, we dressed him up in a Build-A-Bear tuxedo, and took photos of him :) I used the Plantin Schoolbook Cricut Cartridge and Bazzill cardstock for the circles, Tim Holtz stamps for the background images, Prima flowers, and Spare Parts brads. The title was done with Tim Holtz Mini Grungeboard letters that were embossed with Zing embossing powder.

Assistance: Taken Literally

2010-02-06T21:57:00.000-06:00

My mom has transformed my former room into an awesome craft room! Since I live so close, I'll be moving all of my crafting supplies to her house, and out of my teeny tiny crafting space!

So, I sat downwith my mom today, in our new room, ready to start designing some work for an upcoming (SEEECRET) event...and I quickly realized that I had forgotten to get my Tim Holtz supplies out of my desk drawer at home. So, I picked up my phone, and dialed my dear dear hubby. He said that bringing it to me was no problem, and asked where it was. I told him that the entire second drawer of my desk held all of my Tim Holtz material, and that he could just throw it in a bag to bring it over. Soon after that phone call, he showed up at my mom's house, and walked into our craft room with a big grin on his face, holding this:

That's right, he thought it would be funny to bring me the actual drawer. What a goof...

Off to create :)

Spunky Layout

2010-01-30T22:21:00.000-06:00

This is a layout that I threw together. It was the page of the week at my local scrapbooking store. I didn't like the way it was designed, as usual, so I changed it up a bit. I like how it turned out...I really need to start taking/finding photos to put on all of these layouts :)

Wild Card Meets Paisly: Me Likes

2010-01-30T20:55:00.001-06:00

Some very special people that my husband and I know, and have known for a long while, adopted a beautiful baby girl when she was born last Saturday. They are so deserving! I made them this card today using with the following supplies:

Bazzill Basics Cardstock as the card base
American Crafts Paper - Baby Little Bo Peep
Wild Card Cricut Cartridge - Scallop Card
Reminisce Paper - Baby Girl Elephant
Paisley Cricut Cartridge - Elephant 2 (Love those glasses!)
Stamps from Making Memories (an old Christmas set, I believe)
Colorbox Chalk Ink - Chestnut Roan
Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Walnut Stain

I'll be mailing it out on Monday,so hopefully they won't stumble across my blog before then :)

Karrie Allen: My New Favorite Teacher

2010-01-30T20:45:00.000-06:00

I know, I haven't posted in a while. I was so busy with work, and all of the wonderful CHA announcements the past week or so...but, I'm back now!

Since my last post I've taken an AMAZING class from an AMAZING woman, and signed up for another! Her name is Karrie Allen. How did I meet her? An interesting story! While selling Mary Kay, I was looking for new customers, and invited this nice girl, Michelle, from my local scrapbooking store to coem to an event. We got to talking, and realized that her boyfriend's brother had worked with my husband. Small world, right? In the following days, we discovered lots of common intrests, and she let me know that she was really nervous about the possibility of her boyfriend proposing on their anniversary. Loooong story a little shorter, he proposed, and that meant a WEDDING! Well, it just so happens that my husband and I are wedding photographers, so OF COURSE we asked if we could shoot their wedding as a gift. Talk about finding a great couple to befriend! Anywho, I came to find out, that Michelle's husband's mother was Karrie Allen, an amazing scrapbooker and teacher. Her brother is the owner of Bazzill Basics Paper Company - how could she NOT be awesome?

I took Karrie's last Razzill Dazzill Bazzill class, and I-AM-HOOKED! Her website is here, and the following are photos of the projects we made! All of the layouts were HER ideas, and not mine. If you live in the Houston area, and are looking for a great scrapbooking class, check out her blog!

I need to find some pretty green embroidery floss to finish the "Family" lettering. Gotta love Bazzill In Stitchz.

Tim Holtz CHA Video: I'm in LOVE

2010-01-29T18:27:00.004-06:00

Check this out! I'm already saving for that new machine!

Tim Holtz CHA

Shop is OPEN for business!

2010-01-18T21:34:00.000-06:00

Hand Me A Stamp has had some exciting changes this weekend!

1. I'm a dot com! Thanks to my wonderful husband, and lots of design work, I have an official website! Currently, it's pretty basic, but I'll be adding to it as time goes on!

2. I'm an official Etsy shop owner! I spent the evening setting up my store front and have 6 Cricut Expression Perfect Pajamas for sale! Check them out, they're adorable! More product to come!

This is just an example of Cricut Expression Perfect Pajamas! This one isn't for sale, obviously, because of copyright laws.

On another note, I spent the day with my mom. We went to Michaels, where I got a pretty sweet, and inexpensive, haul.

I am most excited about the Tim Holtz stamp set. The acrylic stamps don't stamp as well, in my opinion, as his red rubber stamps do, but how could I pass up 40% of $15?

Mariposa: My Spanish Butterfly

2010-01-17T15:38:00.001-06:00

I caved! I don't usually post about things that I've purchased, however, this HAD to be an exception. I've flipped through this stack a few times, and after hearing people rave about it, I took one more glance. It's beautiful! Joann's had The Mariposa Stack, by Die Cuts With a View, on sale for only $9.99! When I went there today to return some sewign notions, I saw it in the back. It was the very last one. How could I resist?

In Spanish, Mariposa means butterfly, so of course this stack is filled with beautifully detailed butterflies and flowers. There are 48 pages, 24 of which are foiled or glittered.

I can't wait to see what I can do with this stack! If you haven't seen it, or want it, you may want to hurry! The stack is no longer available online at Joanns, and is one hard cookie to find anywhere else.