Crafting With Crystal

Liebster Blog Award

2012-03-15T18:14:00.000-04:00

In the Close To My Heart family Krista is like a sister since we both share the same upline ("mom"). Krista has been an inspiration to me with her artwork, as well as how she runs her Close To My Heart business. I'm so excited for her sucess when I see that she has earned an incentive trip or a sales award. She just got back from Hawaii!

Recently Krista has honored me with the Liebster Blog Award. So what Is this Liebster Blog Award? This award is for bloggers with less than 200 followers, to bring attention to their blog, and increase their following! Here are the Rules:

1. Show your thanks to the blogger who gave you the award by linking back to them.

2. Reveal your five picks for the award and let them know.

3. Post the award on your blog.

4. Bask in the love from the supportive people out there in Blog Land!

5. Finally and the best rule of all..........have fun and spread the love!

So thank you Krista! Visit her blog Krista's Crafty Corner. You'll want to see the scrapbook layouts of Hawaii which I'm sure will be posted soon!

Here are my five picks for the Liebster Blog Award.

My fifth pick would be Krista :)

Paper Cupcake

2012-03-04T00:34:00.000-05:00

Recently I purchased The Happy Birthday to You SVG Kit. This is the first project I made from the kit. It is a cupcake for my nephew Zack's birthday. I'm not 100% happy with it. I accidentally glued paper down on the wrong side and I was a little impatient with letting the liquid glass dry. However, I'm sure Zack won't mind. After all, what matters is what's on the inside, right?

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss

2012-03-01T22:33:00.000-05:00

Dr. Seuss was born on March 2. Many schools participate in "Read Across America Day" to honor Dr. Seuss and promote reading for enjoyment to their students. All this week in my classroom we've been reading Dr. Seuss books. Tomorrow is an In service Day so we ended the week with a snack of green eggs and ham and special crafts. Since The Lorax is being released this weekend I choose that as a read aloud and found the project ideas here. This blog is a treasure!

Cricut Treat Bags

2012-02-25T22:55:00.000-05:00

Today I went to a crop. Sadly I began to feel sick at lunch time and had to leave early. I was able to make these two "treat bags" using the Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge. These are the perfect size for party favors (wedding, bridal showers, baby showers,etc.)

Supplies:
Cricut Art Philosophy Cartridge from Close To My Heart
Pemberley Paper Packet
With Love Stamp Set (retired)
Paradise Paper Flowers

Supplies:
Cricut Art Philosophy Cartridge from Close To My Heart
Lucy Paper Packet
A Blossom Stamp Set
Bohemian Assortment

MMM! Fastnachts

2012-02-19T20:41:00.000-05:00

In preparation for Shrove Tuesday Dad and I (under the supervision of Mom) made traditional PA Dutch Fastnachts. Topped with a little King syrup and yum. Here is the Davis family recipe passed down from a church cookbook of my great grandmother, Cora Kohl Lebo.

Recipe for Fastnachts

1 1/2 cup of sugar
3 eggs
1/2 cup of margarine
1/2 teaspoon of salt
2 cups small potatoes, boiled & mashed with water
1 cup of milk
1 package of cake yeast dissolved in 1/4 cup of warm water
flour to make dough (about 12 cups)

Beat sugar, eggs, margarine and salt in a large pan. Add potato water, milk, and yeast dissolved in 1/4 cup warm water. Add flour so that dough can be handled. Let stand overnight. Next morning knead dough and let stand for 45 minutes. Roll out and cut into portions desired. Let rise for 3 1/2 hours. Fry in hot canola oil until golden brown.

Lucy Cards

2012-02-18T10:41:00.000-05:00

Supplies:
Colonial White Die Cut Card and Envelopes
Lucy Paper Packet
Lucy Complements Glittery Rub Ons
Just a Number Stamp Set
Bohemian Assortment
Cricut Art Philosophy (to cut the sentiment piece)

Supplies:
Lucy Paper Packet
Quick Cards - Butterfly Stamp Set
Sweet Leaf Stitched Grosgrain Ribbon
Opaque Pearl Adhesive Gems (colored with a pink Copic marker)
Cricut Art Philosophy (to cut the circle card, scallop circles, and circles)

Supplies:
Lucy Paper Packet
Thoughtful Tidings February 2012 Stamp of the Month
Color Ready Seam Binding
Cricut Art Philosophy (to cut the shape of the card and sentiment piece)

These are from the swap too. Joyce, my upline, designed these cards for us to do. Lucy is a beautiful paper packet!

Pemberley Layout

2012-02-16T18:29:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I shared the cards I designed for the swap. This is the layout Jean designed using the How-To Book Reflections. After the swap I came home to add the photos, title, and more flowers! There so fun and easy to make with the Art Philosophy cartridge. I think I need to order another pack of Pemberley. I love it!
Edit: The correct spelling of this paper packet is Pemberley. I've been forgetting the last "e".
Another edit: Hoping the pictures are side by side on the page after adjusting design / width of blog.

Pemberley Cards

2012-02-15T20:06:00.001-05:00

Card Pattern: Simply Said from the How-To Book Wishes

Supplies:
Colonial White Die Cut Cards and Envelopes
Pemberley Workshop on the Go (I used Paper Packet, Stamp Set, and Pearls)
Bohemian Assortment
Colonial White Waxy Flax
Baker's Twine Neutral Assortment

Card Pattern: The Main Idea from the How-To Book Originals

Supplies:
Kraft Die Cut Cards and Envelopes
Pemberley Workshop on the Go (I used Paper Packet and Pearls)
Card Word Puzzle Stamp Set
Color-Ready Garden Wooden Shapes

Card Pattern: Inspired from the Idea Book and Catalog page 21

Supplies:

Colonial White Cards and Envelopes
Pemberley Workshop on the Go (I used Paper Packet, Stamp Set, and Pearls)

My favorite paper packet from the Spring / Summer 2012 Idea Book Catalog is Pemberley. I designed these three cards for a swap with other Close To My Heart consultants.

Pocket Box for Candy Bar

2012-02-09T19:48:00.001-05:00

Here's another Valentine's Day project. I made these for my coworkers. I bought the template for the box here. The sentiment is from a Stampin' Up set. The paper is a retired Close To My Heart collection.

Hmm, is it a little OCD of me to be bothered that the candy bars are not in the same direction in the photo. I guess I'm getting better since I'm posting and not setting up for another photo. At least I think I won't....

Heart Treat Bag

2012-02-07T18:56:00.000-05:00

I'm not exactly sure what to call this adorable Cricut project, but I think Heart Treat Bag works! The "bag" was cut using Close To My Heart's Art Philosophy cartridge. It also features this month's Stamp of the Month.

One more week to go until Valentine's Day! I have a few more projects to share.

MTME Sketch Challenge 46

2012-02-06T16:36:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I posted a project using a template I purchased from My Time Made Easy. I have quite a wishlist of items I want from their shop. I decided to play in their next four blog sketch challenges so I can be entered into a contest to win and hopefully scratch off some of those wishlist items!

Supplies:
Colonial White Cards and Envelopes (Close To My Heart)
NEW Stella Paper Packet (Close To My Heart)
NEW Stamp Set from Stella Workshop on the Go (Close To My Heart)
Cocoa Ink (Close To My Heart)
Olive Ink (Close To My Heart)
Lagoon Ink (Close To My Heart)
Silk Ribbon (May Arts)

Card Candy Valentine

2012-02-05T21:58:00.001-05:00

This has been a great weekend. I've been scrapbooking, cardmaking and papercrafting. I used new paper collections from the Spring / Summer 2012 Close To My Heart Idea Book that debuted February 1. I'm also working on Valentine's Day projects.

Today I'm going to share a new template I purchased from My Time Made Easy called Card Candy. This project uses stickers from an old Close To My Heart card kit. I love the idea of having a cards that is a box for treats. I don't have Valentine's Day candy so leftover Christmas candy is pictured. I made this quickly just to get an idea of what it's like. I think it's a work in progress. I have six students and think I might make them to give. I usually do not give them candy so I need to keep out the party favor aisle for other ideas.

Hershey Kiss Box for my Roomie!

2012-01-31T19:50:00.000-05:00

I just found this blog that sells pdf and svg files. I thought the Hershey kiss box was adorable, and so easy to make since I can cut svg files with Sure Cuts A Lot and my Cricut. Today is my Convention roomie's birthday. Happy birthday Jolene! This box and card is on it's way!

Simple Embellishments

2012-01-19T20:07:00.000-05:00

This card was inspired by Day 6 of Clean and Simple Cardmaking. The folded flower embellishment is simple to make and really makes a statement. I've been keeping up with the tutorials in this class all week and am looking forward to the weekend to try more of the designs and techniques.

Supplies:

6 x 6 Die-Cut Kraft Cards and Envelopes

Sonoma Paper Packet

Colonial White Cardstock

Bamboo Waxy Flax

Green Button Assortment

White Gel Pen

Rock the Block

2012-01-15T16:50:00.000-05:00

This weekend I (finally) completed the Rock the Block project. This is a Papercrafting Month special offered by Close To My Heart. Thanks to Jolene and Nancy, CTMH friends and consultants, for a day of crafting where I found the inspiration to get it done!

I decided to use family photos for my project, but check out another use at Stephanie's blog. I have another set and a fellow consultant came up with an idea of how to create a game to use in a classroom or with your children. Hopefully I'll get that completed next week!

Supplies:
Rock the Block Papercrafting Month Special
Elemental Paper Packet
Elemental Compliments Dimensional Elements

Clean and Simple Flat Card 3

2012-01-12T17:18:00.001-05:00

Here is the last of my cards from Day 2 about creating flat cards from the Online Card Class Clean and Simple Card Making. This was a great idea for using background stamps. I think this card would be great for a set of note cards. Can you spot that I stamped the text background upside down?

Supplies:
White Cards and Envelopes Value Pack (Close To My Heart)
Intrinsic Backgrounds (Retired Close To My Heart)
Universal Backgrounds (Close To My Heart)
Sentiments Stamp (Papertrey Ink)

Juniper Ink Pad (Close To My Heart)

Clean and Simple Flat Card 2

2012-01-12T17:06:00.000-05:00

Here is another card from Day 2 about creating flat cards from the Online Card Class Clean and Simple Card Making. I love this card technique. The butterfly looks dimensional even though it is flat. Please forgive the imperfections, I had a little problem with the repositional adhesive I applied for the mask.

Supplies (All Items from Close To My Heart):

White Cards and Envelopes Value Pack

Pattern Paper: Wings Paper Packet (Retired)

Butterfly Kiss Stamp Set (Retired)

Ink Pads: Sky, Vineyard Berry, Black

Texture Tools

Clean and Simple Flat Card 1

2012-01-12T12:47:00.001-05:00

Today is Day 4 of the Online Card Class Clean and Simple Card Making, but I'm still working on my cards from Day 2! I like that you can pace the class yourself and even after the class is over you have access class materials. Day 2 was about creating flat cards. Since I've been charged more for mailing a card because of embellishments this class was a perfect challenge. This card was faux letter press. The sample card was stunning with the look of a crisp stamp image that seemed printed on the card. Here is my take on it.

Supplies:
White Cards and Envelopes Value Pack (Close To My Heart)
Stamped Images: Tickled Pink Stamp Set from Tickled Pink Collection (Retired Close To My Heart Retired)
Jelly Roll Glitter Pen (Sakura)

Clean and Simple Sketches

2012-01-11T17:04:00.000-05:00

I'm taking an Online Card Class called Clean and Simple Cardmaking. The class started Monday with Clean and Simple sketches. In addition to the clean and simple style, I've also adopted the philosophy of using up my stash to create these cards. So the paper is from Close To My Heart retired collections. Here is my take on the sketches.

Supplies:
Colonial Cards and Envelopes Value Pack (Close To My Heart)
Pattern Paper from Twitterpated Paper Packet (Retired Close To My Heart)
Sentiment Stamp (Papertrey Ink)
Cocoa Ink (Close To My Heart)
Vanilla Cream Waxy Flax (Retired Close To My Heart)
Buttons Green Assortment (Close To My Heart)

Supplies:
Colonial Cards and Envelopes Value Pack (Close To My Heart)
Pattern Paper from Grace Paper Packet (Retired Close To My Heart)
Sentiment Stamp (Papertrey Ink)
Cocoa Ink (Close To My Heart)
Colonial White Waxy Flax (Close To My Heart)
Wooden Designer Buttons (Close To My Heart)

Supplies:
Colonial Cards and Envelopes Value Pack (Close To My Heart)
Pattern Paper from Unforgettable Paper Packet (Retired Close To My Heart)
Sentiment Stamp (Papertrey Ink)
Flower Stamp: Aspiration (Retired Close To My Heart)
Cocoa Ink (Close To My Heart)
Pewter Decorative Brads (Close To My Heart)

Card Organizer

2012-01-05T23:04:00.000-05:00

I made this for my boss, who is actually a good friend too. She is celebrating a birthday tomorrow. I've made one of these before and posted on my blog, see it here to get a link to the tutorial.

Supplies:

Roxie Level 2 Paper Packet (CTMH)

Newsprint Rub-Ons (CTMH)

Just Blooms Paper Flowers - Spring Blossom (CTMH)

Opaques - Licorice (CTMH)

Bling Flourish (Not sure where this one came from but CTMH will soon be my supplier!)

Carl Brands Ring Binding System (Carl Brands)

Paperweight Project

2011-12-30T16:20:00.000-05:00

Joyce, my CTMH upline, had us create this project at our unit Christmas party a couple of weeks ago. We started with a 3 1/4 inch circle and created a 3D image. Of course I picked a purple flower! Everything was cut using the Close To My Heart Art Philosophy Cartridge! I added glitter to the elements and adhered the dome with liquid glass. I'm not sure where Joyce got the glass domes,but I found this place with a search. I think it's a great gift idea. Hmm, maybe for convention roomie gifts. I know you visit my blog! What do you think? Probably too heavy for airline luggage weight restrictions!

Hi I'm Crystal and I'm a Kindleholic!

2011-12-28T23:49:00.001-05:00

So the title of this blog is "Crafting with Crystal" a place to share my passion for paper crafting and other things. Today's post falls under other things! I have a confession...my number one passion isn't paper crafting, it's reading. I know scandalous! I blame this on my Kindle. It makes it so easy to get books. I purchased the Kindle DX in 2009 and now have over 500 books archived on it. On some blogs I visit I've seen posts recently about their top books of 2011. I thought I'd share mine here. I went back over the 150+ books I read this year and this is my top ten books or authors from the year that I highly recommend.

1. Shadowfever by Karen Marie Moning: I couldn't believe my luck when the release date in January turned out to be a snow day! I spent it reading this 5th and final book of the Fever series. If you like urban fantasy then give this a try, but start with the first one obviously.

2. Anything by Marie Force: I discovered this author and have read everything that she has available. She writes contemporary romance and the "Fatal Series" which I categorize as a mystery / crime drama series. As far as I'm concerned Marie Force cannot write fast enough for me!

3. Life From Scratch by Melissa Ford: I would place it in the literary fiction / chick lit category. It's different from most of the books I read, but I enjoyed it enough to read it twice!

4. Anything by Jill Mansell: She started my British chick lit phase this year! Miranda's Big Mistake was one of my favorites of hers.

5. Just One of the Guys by Kristan Higgins: Chick lit / romance books that are set in New England, and I love how the characters are pet owners. I picked my favorite I read this year but really I have 8 of her books on my Kindle and gave them 5 stars!

6. Can You Keep a Secret by Sophie Kinsella: A continuation of my British chick lit phase! After reading and rating Jill Mansell books Amazon suggested this author. I hadn't heard of her, but she is the author behind the popular Confessions of a Shopaholic series from which the movie is based. I've since read that series and her other books. Can You Keep a Secret is my favorite of hers and may very well be my favorite of the year. I just reread it again a few days ago and still laughed out loud!

7. Night Huntress Series by Jeaniene Frost: When I was looking for a new vampire romance series this came suggested at a blog. I decided to try the first book and now I'm hooked. I just hope it doesn't get stale like my once loved Sookie Stackhouse series.

8. Life, Love, and a Polar Bear Tattoo by Heather Wardell: This is another author from the chick lit genre that had several books I read this year. There's one book of hers I haven't read because I know how it ends and I need to be in the right mood to read. :( They can't all be HEA.

9. Blood Bound by Rachel Vincent: This author finished an urban fantasy series last year that I was sad to see go, but it was time. I'm glad she started a new series. If you like urban fantasy but are tired of vampires and shifters try this one.

10. Love You More by Lisa Gardner: This is another book in a favorite genre of mystery / crime drama. I started reading this author in 2010. She had my favorite book from that year The Neighbor.

11. OK, I want 11 for 2011 but this book is actually my most anticipated book for 2012! Lara Adrian's Midnight Breed series is another take on vampire romance / urban fantasy. The 10th book in the series comes out on January 24. It's already pre ordered for my Kindle and I'm thinking about taking a personal day to read it on release day. Darker After Midnight centers around Chase Sterling, my favorite character.

I'd love for you to leave me a comment about your favorites. I'm looking for some new authors and books to tide me over until Darker After Midnight. I'm trying to get into the Girl With the Dragon Tattoo Trilogy. I hear it's slow but I need to stick with it.

The Four Seasons Wall Hangings

2011-12-20T19:05:00.000-05:00

At my upline's unit Christmas party this is the beautiful gift I received made by my sideline Stacey R. I think I will be displaying them all at the same time in a grouping. They're too pretty to only have one at a time for 3 months!

Banner Christmas Tree

2011-12-19T13:11:00.000-05:00

The My Creation Line of Close To My Heart products includes some of my favorite items. Last July at convention a consultant shared this project made from sets of the My Creation Banner. I put it on my list of holiday projects. This was my gift at my Close To My Heart unit Christmas party yesterday. Stacey will need to find a place to display it in her home!

2011 Christmas Card

2011-12-18T12:45:00.000-05:00

Card Pattern: Sentiment Secured from the How-To Book Wishes

I had many Christmas cards from previous years and workshops to use this year. When those cards ran out this is the card that I decided to make and mail / hand out for this year. The Remarkable Wreath stamp set is a favorite of mine. It is also the stamp set that the Close To My Heart Corporate office used with their card!

Ornament and Keepsake Box

2011-12-15T18:58:00.000-05:00

I'm always looking for crafts to complete with my students. This past weekend I was browsing for an idea of something my students could make to give to their parents. I saw a this video for snowman hand print ornaments and knew this is what I would do. The class completed them today.

Tomorrow is our last day of school before the holidays. So I brought the ornaments home to wrap them. Then I discovered this pattern I purchased awhile ago. I printed up the boxes on Close To My Heart's pattern paper from the Believe collection. I love the presentation almost as much as the students' ornaments. I'm sure their parents will love them.

Gift Card Packaging

2011-12-10T23:03:00.000-05:00

The school that I teach at held a fundraiser selling gift cards. So I took the easy road this year with Christmas gifts, but now I'm looking for clever ways to package them. I already posted a few on my blog in the past. Here is another one. It's a template from My Time Made Easy called Insert Card Here. I purchased the pdf document and printed it on a piece of paper from the Believe Paper Pack. I purchased a few packs of the Holiday Pockets and they make great gift tags for the top of the box. A quick, simple way to present a gift card as a gift!

Ornament

2011-11-20T16:56:00.000-05:00

I saw this tutorial on Splitcoast Stampers. I wanted to make the ornament but I don't own the Spellbinders 2011 Heirloom Ornament Die. Yesterday I had a day of crafting with friends and was so eager to make this project when I found out that Nancy did own the die! Now I went and purchased it so I can make more! My version doesn't follow the directions completely, but I'd like to make another one that shows the "honeycomb" effect once I get the die.

Recipe:
Mistletoe Paper (Close To My Heart - retired)
Seam Binding Ribbon (Stampin' Up)
jewel from Heirloom Assortment (Close To My Heart)

Tools:
Spellbinders 2011 Heirloom Ornament Die
Cuttlebug

Gift Card Box

2011-11-05T17:53:00.000-04:00

I made this project at my Close To My Heart team meeting today. I'm not sure where Joyce, my upline, got this idea, but I'm glad she shared it with me! I was planning to give a few gift cards this year for Christmas. These boxes will make a nice presentation.

I'm going to make a photo tutorial later this week. So check back if you'd like the instructions.

Autumn Wreath

2011-10-28T18:53:00.000-04:00

I had a gift certificate to Michaels and used it to buy a wreath form. My vision was to make a wreath with the "chrysanthemum" flower on Close To My Heart's Art Philosophy cartridge. It's finally finished and hanging on my front door! Well maybe not finished, I may add a few more flowers to fill in, and I'm thinking about Opaque gems for the centers.

If you're in the area have fun watching the snow fall tomorrow! It's going to be a wet snow so I'm thinking about a snow jack o' lantern!

For Trick or Treat Time

2011-10-23T15:44:00.000-04:00

It's been several weeks since I posted artwork. Partly due to starting and not finishing projects! Also, I've become hooked on a few TV shows. Tonight is the season finale of my new favorite Against the Wall on Lifetime. Then later this week Project Runway concludes.

I just finished these pillow boxes. These were super easy to make. First I used the cut from the Art Philosophy Cricut cartridge. Then I decorated them with the Mischief Complements Rub-Ons. We rarely get trick or treaters. Who wouldn't want to go to a neighboring development instead of our rural road? However, I know three boxes will be handed out (my niece and nephews)!

October Crafting

2011-10-02T19:50:00.001-04:00

Last week I completed a project with the My Creations Memory Game. It was part of a swap. Now I'm anxiously awaiting for all of the consultants to finish. I'll post pictures as soon as I get it back! In the meantime here is artwork from Close To My Heart to get you thinking about crafting this month. This picture is of the Mischief paper. Usually, I don't make Halloween cards or layouts, but I'll be using this paper for trick or treat gift bags.

This picture shows artwork using the October Stamp of the Month, Holiday Magic. Christmas is 12 weeks away! I can see this as a stamp set I'll reach for a lot when working on Holiday cards and layouts.

Welcome Fall!

2011-09-24T17:04:00.000-04:00

My post today is celebrating the first day of Autumn, which was yesterday. There are things I like about every season, but Autumn is my favorite! These cards use Dreamin', a great paper packet for the colors of Autumn. I'm not sure who created these cards but I received them as part of the Joyful Stars swap. The consultant had great stamped images for the cards, but I decided to change it up and use the Harvest Charms.

Christmas Card Extravaganza

2011-09-18T10:09:00.000-04:00

Yesterday's Christmas Card Extravaganza was a blast! My upline, Joyce, organizes this event every year in September. There were nine projects total. We started out making a gift bag Stacy Stokes designed. It uses a paper bag as the base!

After the gift bag project we made these four cards before lunch!

Bright and Cheery!

Unique way to open for your sentiment!

Isn't this cozy? Makes me want to be sipping some hot chocolate while reading! Designed by my friend Jean.

Look it's Rudolph! Stacey Rogers designed this cards for our Consultant swap and Christmas Card Extravaganza.

My card!

Yum, I look forward to the Taco Soup every year! After lunch it was time for four more cards.

I love this stamp set used for this card and that the consultant used the Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge for the shaped card!

Nancy Brown designed this easel card. I'm considering making thirty of these for the cards I'll be handing out this year.

The card features a tag to pull.

Wendy designed this card.

A surprise pocket inside for a treat!

Stacy Stokes prepared this snowflake gift card holder. I love how Stacy shows us how to bedazzle our artwork!

A pocket for the gift card and more beautiful stamped images.

This is an event we do every year. If you missed it this year and you are local, keep it in mind for next year. If you have any questions about the projects leave a comment. I do have cutting directions for my card and for the gift card holder Stacy Stokes prepared.

Country Wreath Card

2011-09-12T18:51:00.001-04:00

A few years ago Close To My Heart had a Christmas wreath stamp set. I saw a consultant layer paper to resemble a door and add the wreath stamped image. I thought that was so clever! Remarkable Wreath is a new stamp set in the current Idea Book and Catalog. I knew I had to bring back this design for the new stamp set. Using the Kraft paper really gives this a country chic vibe! This could be an all occasion card, and the stamp set features a wreath for all seasons. I intend to use this card for a Christmas card, and I will be teaching this design at the Christmas Card Extravaganza on Saturday. I hope to see you there!

9/16/11: After reading this post today, I needed to edit it to make sense! I must have been tired when I posted it. I also wanted to add that I used Glitz Gel to accent the wreath!

Yes I'm Royalty!

2011-08-29T23:23:00.000-04:00

Haven't blogged in a few days because I am swamped getting ready for the start of a new school year. My first day with the students is September 6, but there is a lot to do in my classroom before that day. I'm hoping to finish up tomorrow or Wednesday so I can have an extended Labor Day weekend to relax. I did get a chance to put this layout together. It was part of the Joyful Stars swap. This layout was put together by Stephanie. You can see her post here. The lighting is poor for these pictures but you can still see the awesome embellishments Stephanie provided like the darling Heirloom jewel on the crown. I also think the "Halloween" Mischief paper was cleverly used for a non Halloween layout! I'm loving the combination of purple, gray, and black too.

Swap Time!

2011-08-19T20:38:00.000-04:00

My upline, Joyce organizes a swap with her team every few months. This is one of the things I like about being a consultant - the exchange of creative ideas! Each participant had to choose a paper packet and either cards or a two page layout to complete. We were to incorporate new stamps and accessories too. My choice was the new paper packet Wonderland, the stamp set Snowflakes, and the super cool Rhinestone Designer Brads. I used the Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge to cut all those beautiful snowflakes before I stamped and embellished them. I can't wait to see what my Close To My Heart friends created!

Pair-a-Phrase

2011-08-15T20:02:00.000-04:00

My newest project I started today uses the special double stamp set, Pair-a-Phrase, that is available today. I intend to make a set of 12 note cards, one inspired by each month of the year. I want to decorate one of the new My Creations Card Box to store them. I may be using this as a door prize for an upcoming event. I decided to keep the cards simple (not much paper layering or embellishments). I want the cards to be easy for the recipient to use and mail. Plus Close To My Heart's new pattern paper is to pretty to cover up! I worked with Believe and Wonderland today. Here are the three I finished.

Teacher Survival Kit

2011-08-13T21:17:00.001-04:00

I am teacher at Brookeside Montessori School and in a few weeks it is back to school time! This coming week is a staff meeting. I'm going to be surprising my coworkers with these Teacher Survival Kits!

I've been working on these the last couple of days. I started with the My Creations Recipe / Photo box and decorated it with the new Typeset Paper Packet. Then I added their names with the Color-Ready Cork Alphabets and finished it off by adding a Chocolate Striped Grosgrain Ribbon handle. I still need a few items for the kit. This is the contents label that I will be printing:

Brookeside Montessori Teacher Survival Kit...to help you survive the 2011-2012 school year!

Contents: 100 Grand Candy Bar so you will be paid what you are worth, Matches for those days when you feel you need to light a fire under your students, Wiggly eyes for when you wish you really did have eyes in the back of your head, Toothpicks to help you pick out the good qualities in everyone, Rubber bands to remind you to be flexible, A binder clip to hold it all together, An eraser to remind you everyone makes mistakes, Band-Aids to heal hurt feelings, Tissues to remind you to dry some one's tears, Clothespin to help you hang in there, Marbles to replace the ones you lose, and A snowflake ornament for when all else fails, pray for a snow day!

Deepest Sympathy

2011-08-12T14:09:00.000-04:00

Card Pattern: Button Trio from the How-To Book Originals

My dear friend and side-line Close To My Heart Consultant, Stephanie recently lost her grandfather. She made a lovely tribute album you can see here. I made this card using the new Kraft cards and envelopes. I used the same paper that Stephanie used for her album, Sonoma and the since I will be mailing this I used the Sonoma Stickease buttons instead of real ones. The stamped image is from the set Treasure Life. I used the chalkboard technique. The inside of the card uses a sentiment from the stamp set Card Chatter - Sympathy.

August Stamp of the Month

2011-08-09T22:16:00.000-04:00

Balance It Out from the How-To Book Originals

I'm just not in the Halloween mood so I haven't felt like creating with August's Stamp of the Month. However, recently I was inspired by other Close To My Heart consultants that were really thinking outside of the box. "Put Your Best Foot Forward" is the perfect card to give encouragement to my niece as she starts college in a few weeks.

August 2011 Stamp of the Month: Wicked

The Stamp of the Month is available until August 31, 2011 for $17.95 or with a $50.00 purchase you can earn it at an amazing price of $5.00. Also, the monthly special for August is a free stamp set when you qualify and order the Stamp of the Month at the $5.00 price. Visit my web site to take advantage of this deal.

Power to the Lawn Gnome People

2011-08-08T21:41:00.000-04:00

Here is a 3 x 3 card featuring the new stamp set Gnome Garden. OK, this is one of those jokes where you had to be there. Several years ago I attended a youth group event / Christian concert. In between sets a comedian doing improve took stage. When he asked for ideas from the audience someone yelled lawn gnomes. I can't remember exactly how the comedian worked it in, all I remember is laughing hysterically every time he said "Power to the Lawn Gnome People". So that is why I think gnomes are funny (not creepy like some may think)! However after I colored this one in I'm thinking leprechaun. So this might wait to handed out until St. Patrick's Day. My favorite part of this project was grabbing the liquid applique to use for his eyebrows, beard, and moustache.

A Cricut Card

2011-08-05T22:14:00.000-04:00

I used Close To My Heart's Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge to make this card. The card base and decorative layer were cut at 4 inches. The spiral flowers are 2 inches and 2 3/4 inches. The paper is from the Mayberry Level 2 Paper Packet. The embellishments are Opaques Mocha Adhesive Gems for the flower centers and the new Bronze Glitz Glitter Gel to create the detail of a stem. This card is going to Jean, a fellow Close To My Heart Consultant, and her husband as a thank you for driving us to the airport to catch the plane for convention! Close To My Heart Corporation filmed a short video outlining the new Cricut cartridge. Check it out:

Creating Keepsakes Convention

2011-07-30T23:13:00.000-04:00

I went to the Creating Keepsakes Convention in Valley Forge, PA today. I decided to take the classes offered by Clear and Simple Stamps on using Copic markers. The classes were fast paced and packed with good stuff! I'm still learning and with more practice I'm looking forward to amazing artwork in my future!

Some butterflies are outlined to add dimension. We were given a Copic Multiliner Pen to add crosshatching to letters and to draw a border. Then we used the trio method to color in the area around the sentiment.

Friend is colored in using the trio method.

I used the trio method on the flower and feathering on the leaves.

The colorless blender marker was used for the polka dot effect. The white paper flower was colored using the air brush system. Look a NEW Close To My Heart bling button!

For this card we were given white ribbon. Two strips were colored directly on with markers and one was to try out the air brush system.

The background was air brushed using a paper doily.

It's hard to tell in photo but we airbrushed with a Spica pen to add sparkle to the cloud. This sample also shows how Copic markers look on kraft paper, nice!

Convention Create and Take: "Paper Bag Album"

2011-07-25T19:54:00.000-04:00

Several years ago I saw crafters use paper bag lunch sacks to make a quick 6 x 6 scrapbook or "brag book." This create and take from convention reminds me of those albums. The base of the album is 3 cards from the pack of 10 Kraft Die-Cut Cards and Envelopes. They will be available for $6.95 starting August 1. Two other new products used in this book are the Decor Journaling Spots and Color- Ready Alphabets Cork. Each of these items will cost $5.95. The Journaling Spots come in a pack of 12 pockets, each with a coordinating tag The cork alphabet includes two sheets of adhesive backed cork alphabet letters (and numbers). In this book I used a cocoa marker on the cork.

CTMH Convention 2011 Happy Face Video

2011-07-23T15:12:00.001-04:00

Check it out I'm in the video at 48 seconds. If you'd like to see your happy face at a Close To My Heart convention I'd love you to join my team and join me next year in Dallas!

Convention Create and Take: Memory Game

2011-07-22T16:37:00.000-04:00

This year at convention we had three create and take projects. The first one I want to share is the new My Creations Memory Game. I love the My Creations line of products from Close To My Heart. The Memory Game includes 24 - 3" x 3" chipboard squares in a sturdy chipboard box and will be available to purchase on August 1 for a retail value of $9.95. We decorated the box with the new paper collection, Elemental. We added stamped embellishments that were cut with the new Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge and then used the coordinating stamps from the set Blue Ribbon.

I didn't have time yet to decorate the chipboard squares inside, but I have an idea. I think I'll use the box in my classroom. I have two ideas. One is to write different ways we applaud each other: round of applause, pat on the pack, fireworks. The other is to write sparkle statements, words the children use to encourage each other. Perhaps I need another Memory Game so I can make both!

I'm so excited. At last check on my Fed Ex tracking shipments my product order from convention is due to arrive tomorrow and my Cricut Art Philosophy cartridge will be arriving Tuesday!

My Gift to Roomies

2011-07-20T13:43:00.003-04:00

A couple of months ago I was looking at a beading catalog from Oriental Trading and found ring bases. Inspiration hit! I knew I was going to make rings for my CTMH sisters. Once the ring bases arrived I played with different Close To My Heart Embellishments. I settled with the mesh from the Bliss Level 2 Assortment and the flowers shaped buttons from the Button Assortments. I really like the way they turned out and made a few extras for Hostess gifts!

Roomie Gifts

2011-07-19T16:34:00.000-04:00

At convention this year I exchanged gifts with "virtual roomies." My roommate Jolene and I added Stacey, Jean and Stephanie to our exchange even though we weren't in the same room. This year flying across the country made it difficult. The requirement was for items to fit in a 3 x 3 space. Every year I'm impressed with the creativity my friends show in their gift giving. Thank you Jolene, Stacey, Jean, and Stephanie!

Jolene made this sticky boy necklace and pin set. I wore my necklace at the team meeting and my pin everyday at convention hoping to find a hidden sticky boy, but it wasn't meant to be this year.

Stacey made a tag book with several Walt Disney quotes.

Jean made bracelets for each of us. I need to find a picture of my Close To My Heart sisters to put in the heart charm.

Stephanie used the 3 x 3 mini ablum to make a "Dates to Remember" book. Each page is dedicated to a month and has plenty of room to add my friends and family members' birthdates.

Convention Wrap Up

2011-07-18T13:32:00.001-04:00

I'm home from Close To My Heart's annual convention. If you are a consultant I highly recommend attending this event. It is worth the time and expense! I feel re energized to create with all the fabulous new products and look forward to sharing here on my blog. Now I just need those Fed Ex tracking numbers to tell me my order is on its way!

With Kathy my 2nd Upline

With Karen my 4th Upline and Naomi my 3rd Upline.

Joyce, Debbie, and Nancy creating a layout using Roxie, a new paper collection.

Our Disney Entertainers from the Awards Banquet

Joyce, My 1st Upline in the middle with The Joyful Stars Team

Close To My Heart Convention Day 1

2011-07-15T00:00:00.001-04:00

Today was the first day of Convention. It was amazing! I'm most excited about the Cricut cartridge bundle with an exclusive cartridge, coordinating stamp sets and dimensional elements. Can't wait to get my hands on that.

My upline Joyce and I ready for the Opening General Session

Jolene and Stephanie join me as we wait for the doors to open

The finale of the General Session with Mickey!

Krista, my sideline teaching at Extravaganza

Fun at Disneyland

2011-07-14T22:27:00.001-04:00

Here I am the day before Close To My Heart's Convention enjoying some time at Disneyland in California with my friends and fellow consultants.

Jolene, Jean, Me, Stacey

It's a Small World

Sleeping Beauty's Castle

California Adventure's Paradise Pier

The gang with Mickey

Me, Goofy, Stephanie, and Jolene

Happy Independence Day

2011-07-04T12:16:00.000-04:00

Close To My Heart has the perfect Stamp of the Month for July 4th activities. Here are cards from a Stamp of the Month Swap I do. These were created by Wendy. Have a great holiday!

American Celebration: July 2011 Stamp of the Month

Background Bar from the How-To Book Originals

Center Squares from the How-To Book Originals

Tied Frame from the How-To Book Originals

Practicing with Copic Markers

2011-06-23T16:39:00.000-04:00

Copic Markers are a high quality brand of alcohol-based markers that artist use. From what I've learned they are top choice for Anime artists. A few years back I saw stampers and scrapbookers begin using these markers. Since then I've been investing in them. They are quite expensive.

I've said it on my blog before I'm not a fan of coloring stamped images. I usually stay away from stamps that are outlines for that reason. Except I love Papertrey Ink's "Year of Flowers" stamps. My first few attempts at coloring with Copics haven't gone well.

A few weeks back I went to a friend a fellow Close To My Heart consultant's house to learn more about using them. I think the key is using various shades in a color family and blending by going back over colors. I'll be taking classes at Creating Keepsakes in a few weeks. Here are my practice results:

Father's Day Card

2011-06-19T17:51:00.000-04:00

Nancy Brown made this wonderful card. It was one of the cards in her collection for the Operation Smile Auction at a Close To My Heart event for consultants. I was happy to give this to my dad today!

The inside of the card is just as beautiful!

Create a Layout get a Free JPG File

2011-06-13T17:33:00.000-04:00

During our Studio J® Free-for-All in June, we're giving everyone a FREE Studio J® JPG file—no purchase required! Simply log on to Studio J, create a layout, then order one JPG file of your layout during the checkout process. It's as easy as that!

Download and save your file so you can post your layout online, email it to family and friends, or print them.

May Cards

2011-05-05T18:00:00.000-04:00

Here are cards I made using the May Stamp of the Month, Chairs To You!

All Squared Up from the How-to Book Wishes

Center Squares (rotated) from the How-to Book Originals

Simple Expression from the How-to Book Wishes

May 2011 Stamp of the Month: Chairs To You

Auction Items

2011-04-29T20:34:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow I will be attending a Close To My Heart event for consultants. There will be an auction to raise money for Operation Smile. My friend, Jean, and I worked on some things to donate for the auction. The Cuckoo Clock was decorated with Miracle Paper Pack and the Chest of Drawers was decorated with Sophia.

April Cards

2011-04-04T17:13:00.000-04:00

These cards were made by Wendy, another Close To My Heart Consultant, for a Stamp of the Month swap in which I participated. I love the pop of color on each card, and the glitter on the flower. Just in case your not aware of the Stamp of the Month offer here is the scoop!

Every month Close To My Heart offers you an exclusive My Acrylix® D-size stamp set FREE or at a large discount. The stamp set is available to qualifying customers for that month only. It’s our way of saying thank you, and your way of getting fantastic deals on our amazing stamps!

April 2011 Stamp of the Month: Blessed

March Cards

2011-03-23T17:46:00.000-04:00

The Stamp of the Month for March has an Easter theme so I wanted to wait awhile before posting. It's an outline stamp that needs to be colored. For my projects I decided to use the blender pen and my ink pads. It gives a soft water colored effect that I really like. The stamps is only available for 8 more days so grab it if you want it!

A Pennant made with the My Creations Banner

Card Pattern: Lucky Layers from the How-To Book Wishes

Card Pattern: Cubed Collage from the How-To Book Wishes

Supplies from Close To My Heart:

Miracle Level 2 Paper Packet
Kraft Paper
Kraft Borders
Sweet Leaf Ribbon
Cocoa Ink
Crystal Blue Ink
Sweet Leaf Ink
Buttercup Ink
Blending Pen

March 2011 Stamp of the Month: Sensational Season

Sweet Baby Bee

2011-03-04T18:18:00.002-05:00

This card was made for Mollie, a coworker that is having a baby. She and her husband decided to wait until the birth to find out if their having a son or daughter. Mollie decided that the nursery will be decked in yellow with a bug theme. So I tried to match with the card! For this card I used the new Irresistibles™ Eclectic Chipboard Die-Cuts to spell baby. They were so much fun to ink up and see the pattern appear!

Card Pattern: Medallion from the How-to Book Wishes

Supplies from Close To My Heart:

Animal Crackers Level 2 Paper Packet (Retired)

Irresistibles™ Eclectic Chipboard Die-Cuts 

Black Marker

Other Supplies

Baby Button Bits (Papertrey Ink)

Button (Unknown)

Gelly Roll Pen (Sakura)

Zack's a Teenager!

2011-03-03T17:39:00.003-05:00

Yesterday my nephew Zack turned 13. Here is the card I made for him. I got the embellishment idea of paper candles from Imaginisce. I saw a pack in a scrapbooking store, but instead of buying them I borrowed the idea. I also coordinated them by using the paper I had.

Card Pattern: The Main Idea from the How-to Book Originals

Supplies from Close To My Heart:
Good Times Level 2 Paper Packet (retired)
White Hemp

Other Supplies:
Take a Spin Stamp Set (Stampin' Up)
Game Spinner Hands (Stampin' Up)

A Birthday Card for Robin

2011-03-02T17:39:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was the birthday of my friend and coworker, Robin. This is the card that everyone signed for her.

Card Pattern: Fancy Five from the How-to Book Originals

Supplies from Close To My Heart:
Sweetheart Level 2 Paper Packet
Stamp Set from Sophia Workshop on the Go
Card Chatter - Birthday
Sparkles - Red, Pink, and Purple Assortment

Happy Birthday Mom!

2011-02-09T20:03:00.002-05:00

Card Pattern: Three Is the Charm from the How-to Book Originals

Tonight I needed to create a special birthday card for a very important person, my mom! I knew I wanted to use blue since its her favorite color. As I paged through my How-to Books this pattern popped out. I was able to use lots of new items in this card. I love the buttons!

Recipe:

Miracle Level 2 Paper Packet

Card Chatter - Birthday

Bliss Level 2 Assortment

Buttons - Blue Assortment

Kraft Color-Ready Borders

Mini Purse for a Friend

2011-02-03T20:24:00.002-05:00

My dad had an automobile accident in December. There were a couple of days when he needed to borrow my car so he took me to work. Then Randi, a coworker and dear friend, was able to bring me home after work. I made this mini purse as a thank you.

But look at what is inside the purse! Yum!

My friend Stacey and fellow Close To My Heart consultant shared the instructions with me on how to make this darling project. It was taught to her by a Stampin' Up demonstrator. This shows that the paper crafting community rocks!

Recipe for Mini Purse:

From Close To My Heart -

Colonial White Grosgrain Ribbon (page 115 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book)
Sunset Mini Medley Collection (page 117 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book)
RETIRED Taffy Textured Cardstock

Other Supplies -
Romani Paper Collection (Basic Grey)
Magnet (Basic Grey)
Flower Sticker (Unknown)

February Layout

2011-02-02T15:01:00.001-05:00

This is the layout that we created this past Saturday using the February Stamp of the Month, Friendship.

Layout Pattern: Deck of Cards (left side) from the How-to Book Magic

Layout Pattern: Deck of Cards (right side) from the How-to Book Magic

Recipe for Layout:

NEW Sophia Level 2 Paper Packet (page 8 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book)
NEW Pink Designer Ribbon (page 115 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book)
NEW Pink Brad Assortment (page 116 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book)
Clear Sparkles (page 116 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book)

February 2011 Stamp of the Month: Friendship

February Cards and Spray Pen Technique

2011-02-01T17:15:00.001-05:00

This past Saturday I spent the day with other consultants creating this beautiful artwork featuring the Stamp of the Month and new items from Close To My Heart's Spring / Summer Idea Book and Catalog. These cards use the new spray pens.

Card Pattern: Sentiment Secured page 78 in the How-to Book Wishes

Card Pattern: Confidential page 122 in the How-to book Wishes

Card Pattern: Stay Left page 55 in the How-to Book Wishes

Recipe for Cards:
NEW Sophia Level 2 Paper Packet
Spring Blossom Just Blooms (page 116 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book)
Pear Mini Medley Collection (page in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book)
Filigree Charms (page 117 in the Spring/Summer 2011 Idea Book)

February 2011 Stamp of the Month: Friendship

Wedding Card

2011-01-15T20:11:00.000-05:00

Today my second cousin got married. It was fun to see relatives I haven't seen in quite awhile. I recently purchased the Year of Flower stamps from Papertry Ink. The rose is from June and is perfect for a wedding card.

If you've read my blog before you know that I'm not a fan of coloring stamped images. I much rather stamp the item on cardstock or patterned paper and cut it out. That's what I did for this card. To add more "depth" to the flower I decided to sponge a darker color ink.

Suitcase of Inks

2011-01-12T20:55:00.000-05:00

This is another creation from the quarter auction I went to on Sunday. I made this suitcase to stash a selection of ink pads. Someone who bought stamps from my cash and carry commented that she needed inks. I told her that there would be some in the auction, and then she was the winning bidder. I love how things work out like that! This template came from Becky Robert's Traveling Trio Tutorial.

Another Purse

2011-01-11T21:09:00.000-05:00

I modified the purse template I used in Saturday's post. This one is larger and could fit 5 stamps sets. This was my grand prize auction item. I wasn't a fan of this patterned paper from Wings until I saw it in person. I think this makes perfect paper for a purse! Now we just need Close To My Heart to make their paper into fabric!

Box of Ribbon and Flowers

2011-01-10T17:49:00.000-05:00

The template for this box is called "From the Desk Of". Check this post from last year.This template can be purchased from Papertry Ink. I made it as a box to store ribbon and paper flowers. This was another auction item I had at yesterday's event.

Purse Gift Bag

2011-01-09T11:04:00.000-05:00

I'll be leaving in a few minutes to go to today's event, a quarter auction in Wescosville. One of the items I have to bid on is a purse filled with buttons and brads. The purse is from a tutorial that you can by from Becky Roberts.

This would be a great idea to use when giving gifts instead of using a store bought gift bag. This is the first one I made, but it won't be my last!

So Many Candles

2011-01-08T15:59:00.000-05:00

My brother Phil has a birthday this week. Sometimes a birthday card for a man is the hardest thing to create.I love the Hoolagins paper's bright festive colors. Even though I first thought Halloween with this paper I've come to see more possibilities for using it up. The stamped image is from Stampin Up. I think the sentiment is perfect. I colored it in with markers and my Sakura metallic and souffle pens.

Birthday Card

2011-01-03T16:35:00.000-05:00

When a coworker has a birthday I make a card that everyone signs. This week Robin, our Head of School, has a birthday. This is the card I made. The bird image is from this month's Stamp of the Month called Find Your Style. Click here if you want the directions to make the flower.

A Banner Year!

2011-01-01T09:00:00.001-05:00

Close To My Heart Inspirations Brochure for January has some awesome new product. You can preview it here online or contact me if you would like a copy. Right now creating banners is a hot trend in the papercrating world. The My Creation Banner is $5.95 and includes 8 chipboard pennants with 7 jump rings. Celebrate National Papercrafting Month this January by making your own!

Quarter Auction

2010-12-31T16:21:00.000-05:00

If you've never been to a Quarter Auction you are missing out on a fun time and a chance to bid on fabulous items at a fraction of the cost. I will be participating in Quarter Auction coming up soon. See the flyer here. I hope to see you there!

Sunday, December 9th 2011

Doors Open at 1 p.m.
Wescosville Fire Company
958 Brookside Rd
Allentown, PA 18106

Holiday Dough

2010-12-23T16:38:00.000-05:00

Here is another way to give a gift a money. This is not my creation I saw this idea last year from a Close To My Heart consultant. The poem says:

Gingerbread men with yummy icing,

Are oh so good and extremely enticing.
I set out to make you a dozen or two,
But time ran out, so now what to do?
So instead of the cookies I tied with a bow,
You’re own personal serving of holiday dough!

Money Holder

2010-12-22T18:17:00.000-05:00

My niece and nephews are between the ages of 12 - 20, and at that age it's money they get for birthdays and Christmas! However, I'm always looking for ways to make the gift more special. My brother Sean asked if I had money cards for his gift of cash. I came across this tutorial for making a money card.

Supplies:

Pattern paper from Jingle Level 2 Paper Packet (CTMH)

Cardstock - Tulip, Juniper, Creme Brulee and White Daisy (CTMH)

Stamp Set - Tag the Occasion (CTMH)

Punches - Circle (CTMH), Border (Fiskars), Scallop (SU)

Amore, Happy Anniversary!

2010-12-21T22:37:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow my parents are celebrating 46 years of marriage! I used Amore, the December Stamp of the Month to create this card for them. This set is perfect for Valentine's Day, Wedding and Anniversary layouts or cards. It's only available for this month so grab yours today!

Cruise Layouts

2010-12-14T18:58:00.000-05:00

My brother Sean took a cruise almost 4 years ago. He gave me digital pictures to scrapbook and I never got around to it. This year I decided to complete it with Studio J and give it to him for Christmas. Since I'm 99.99% sure he never visits my blog here are some of the layouts:

Paper Flower Tutorial

2010-12-12T18:01:00.000-05:00

Wow! I never posted twice in the same day, but I had someone ask how I made the flowers from yesterday's post. I've tried many times to make the spiral rolled rosette flowers to no avail. So I was happy to find Beate Johns' tutorial on this flower. You can view it here. I used cardstock instead of the grunge paper. It worked wonderfully! When I assembled my flower I used a punched circle of cardstock and affixed each layer with Liquid Glass instead of wire. I hope you have success making these beautiful dimensional flowers too!

Sleigh Ride Card

2010-12-12T12:44:00.000-05:00

Recipe:

Mistletoe Level 2 Paper Packet

Card Chatter - Christmas Stamp Set

New England Ivy Ink Pad

Chirstmas Cards Cricut Cartridge

Mix and Mingle Wall Hanging

2010-12-11T16:04:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I saw a blog post that used the Mix and Mingle Album as a wall hanging. I was inspired to make my own. My friend and fellow Close To My Heart Consultant, Jean received this wall hanging today during our Christmas party.

You're getting a sneak peek at Close To My Heart product available in January!

Decorated Tin with Candy

2010-12-09T19:48:00.000-05:00

One blog I visit frequently is Becky Roberts. She makes great tutorials. I bought her 12 Days of Christmas package in 2008. You can see her project idea I used here. Now finally two years later I'm using the tutorial and the tins I bought from Papertrey Ink! I have a Christmas party this weekend with my Close To My Heart consultant friends. We exchange "big" gifts, but I wanted to make a little something for everyone. I think these will do nicely!

Shop From the Heart Event

2010-12-01T19:45:00.001-05:00

A Baby Card

2010-11-30T18:58:00.000-05:00

I found out today that a parent of one of our students had a baby. The staff wants to send a card so I volunteered to make one. I pulled out the Cricut Simply Charmed cartridge (same as the bride from yesterday's post). The Close To My Heart cardstock colors I used are Baby Pink, Blush, Taffy, and Black. I added sticker from the Topstitch collection and pewter brads. The stamps are from Papertrey Ink, Inside & Out Baby.

Card with a Gift Card!

2010-11-29T20:54:00.000-05:00

Tresa Black is a very talented Close To My Heart Consultant who came up with this project. You can see her blog post here.

This is my version:

Gift cards aren't just for Christmas. My second cousin is getting married and her shower is Saturday. So here is a different version. The bride is cut on the Cricut with a new cartridge a bought Simply Charmed. I love it!

Time for the Countdown!

2010-11-27T14:48:00.000-05:00

My upline, Joyce saw a version of this countdown posted on the Close To My Heart artwork website for consultants. I'm not sure who the first consultant was to make it, but I'm glad she shared her work. Joyce asked me to bring my Bind-It-All so we could make these at a unit meeting. This is going to go on my desk at school and my students will take turns flipping the numbers!

Close To My Heart Materials List:

Mistletoe Level 1 Paper Pack

Colonial White Cardstock

Friendship Alphabet Small (for letters)

Friendship Alphabet Large (for numbers)

Cranberry Ink

New England Ivy Ink

Mistletoe Level 2 Assortment

Other:

Coasters

Bind-It-All

Sympathy Cards

2010-11-21T22:08:00.000-05:00

Sadly, an acquaintance of my mom's lost her battle with cancer on Friday. My mom needed two sympathy cards for her sisters. I had been working with the Close To My Hearts' Olivia paper packet and still had Cricut flowers made. The sentiment "With Heartfelt Sympathy" is from a Stampin' Up set I own.

Washer Pendant

2010-11-18T16:46:00.001-05:00

Take a washer, apply patterned paper and liquid glass. Now you have a beautiful pendant. I've seen a few consultants post pictures of their jewelry creations recently. I wanted to make one but never made the time. Then a two weeks ago at my uplines' team meeting I made one. Not bad for my first attempt. I picked up a dozen washers at the hardware store to make more. I'm thinking these will make excellent Christmas gifts!

The Present

2010-11-11T21:19:00.000-05:00

I love this sentiment from The Present stamp set. I'm using the beautiful Olivia paper since it matches the autumn colors I see out my window! Recently, I've seen a few tutorials on how to make paper flowers, but since I own a Cricut I decided that was the best way for me. I cut several sizes of the same image, inked the edges, layered and added a brad! I made several and will be using them with my next project.

Happy Fall

2010-11-08T23:06:00.001-05:00

I love things about all of the seasons, but autumn is probably my favorite! The card base is a clear card that Close To My Heart sells. I used an embossing folder and ran it through the Cuttlebug. I saw other consultants using this technique and I just had to try it. I like this technique and made a Christmas card that I will share another day.

Did you know that Close To My Heart has a monthly TV show? It's called Art and Soul. You can find it on my website. This month features the tissue stamping technique. I used that technique to create the multicolor leaves on my card. Go to my website and check it out! New episodes air the third Tuesday of the month.

November Stamp of the Month

2010-11-01T19:15:00.000-04:00

The two kinds of cards I make and send the most are birthday and thank you. So I like a variety of stamps to use for these occasions. I love, love November's Stamp of the Month, A Little Thanks. Here are some cards I made using the stamp set and Magnifique paper.

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T18:26:00.000-04:00

I have so many nugget tins that I decided to use them for Halloween this year. I bought pumpkin light up necklaces for my class and made a quick card using Hooligans paper and the felt monster sticker assortment. For trick-or-treaters coming to our house the tins are filled with candy treats!

Another Studio J Layout

2010-10-28T16:49:00.001-04:00

Don't waste your time and money taking your camera's memory card to the store and printing photos. Use Studio J instead. For about the same cost you can create a beautiful two page layout in minutes. I'd love to show you how. Contact me for more information.

This is another layout I created with Studio J. These pictures are my brother's family. I'll be framing them for my brother and sister-in-law for a Christmas present.

Studio J Layout

2010-10-27T21:37:00.001-04:00

The last time my entire family had a photo sitting my 18 year old niece was a baby in arms. That picture was hanging in the living room until I had a contractor repaint for my parents' Christmas present two years ago. This year's present is updated photos and framed prints. A few weeks ago my friend Randi took the photos. I purchased 13 x 19 paper for my Canon Pro9000 printer. Now all I need is frames! In the meantime I uploaded the photos to Studio J and created layouts. This layout is for my album.

October Stamp of the Month Layout

2010-10-13T17:17:00.001-04:00

This layout design is from Magic, Close To My Heart's newest how-to-book. In August I attended an event for consultants to work on Stamp of the Month artwork. It was hosted by my sideline, Krista. Recently her layout was picked as a winner by the corporate office of Close To My Heart. YAY!

I love Krista's idea of using the stamped candy cane images in the title. First stamp your title. Then stamp and cut out the candy canes from the Stamp of the Month set. Next line up where you want the candy canes to be "hooked" and cut slits on both sides of the letter with a craft knife. Last slide the candy canes through the slits.

October Stamp of the Month Cards

2010-10-12T16:26:00.003-04:00

Share the Magic is the perfect stamp set for the Holiday cards, layouts, and packaging. Remember it's only available for this month, and you can earn it for free!

Liquid Applique was used for Santa's beard and Fun Flock was applied to his suit.

A string of Christmas lights on Rudolph are accented with liquid glass. I think his nose needs some too!

The Frosty card showcases a brad from Close To My Heart's new Mistletoe Level 2 Assortment. I used my Gelly Roll Glitter Pen but I think it's too subtle. Maybe I should go over it with Prisma Glitter or Stickles glitter glue.

Ice Crystals

2010-10-11T13:19:00.001-04:00

I had to get the stamp set with the name Crystal in it! This was the third card that I prepared for the Christmas Card Extravaganza a few weeks ago. The design had gone through a couple of changes along the way. I settled on the "framed" feeling for the sentiment days before the event. I love how changing the inside greeting this could be more than a Christmas card. You could use it for a seasonal thank you, thinking of you, or birthday card. Here is the first version of the card with the color scheme.

Everlasting

2010-09-26T15:49:00.002-04:00

I was so excited to see Everlasting in the Fall / Winter Idea Book. I will be using the scripture sentiment often for cards. Included is one of my father's favorite verses from the book of Isiah. If you attended the Christmas Card Extravaganza on Saturday this was the second card I taught. This cards is a quick and economical card to mass produce and will probably be the card I send out to family and friends this year!

Card base- 5.5" X 8.5", scored at 4.25" and folded in half
Mistletoe Patterned Paper - 5.25" X 3.75"
Cranberry Piece - 5.25" X 1" (scallop punch or use corner rounder)