Holiday Mini Catalog Release

It's here! Beginning tomorrow, September 1, you can view and/or order from the new Holiday Mini Catalog. It's full of fresh inspiration, ideas, and projects to make your holidays the best yet. Click here to view the mini.

While you're at it, mosey on over to my house tomorrow night, Tuesday, Sept. 1, between 6:30 and 9:00 p.m. for my Mini Catalog Open House. This is a come and go free event. You will make a project with items from the Mini Catalog, see samples featuring the new products, chat about upcoming holiday projects, have a snack and generally unwind.

Just let me know you are coming so that you can get through the gate and to ensure I have your project ready for you to stamp! 210-492-3218. You can even call me tomorrow, but join me and let's get a jump-start on fall and all the holidays that await us:)

Fresh sample

Don't you just love fall! I do! It's my favorite time of year and just around the corner. One of the best things about fall is all the beautiful colors in nature.

This new catalog stamp set, Leaf Lines (114393, $20.95, set of 6 stamps), has leaves for every season of the year. I watercolored this one using the oak leaves stamp and think this makes a great unisex card--equally appealing to men and women. (I don't like to give frilly cards to my hubby and sons:) The Twill Tape (105245, $5.95, 9 yards: 3 yards each of 3/8", 3/4", and 1 1/2" Twill Tape) is a very affordable "ribbon" option and has a host of uses. Here you can see that it adds texture, again, without being girly.

Would you like to learn to watercolor like this? Call me today at 210-492-3218 to set up a private class for you and your friends. Then be set to watercolor your own hand-crafted cards for the special people in your life!

Reaching New Heights!

The Decor Elements Growth Chart is proving to be a very popular item, and it's easy to see why with its great versatility. Whether being used in your home or in the classroom, it's a beautiful way to track growth and sure beats ugly pencil marks on the door frame! Here is a classroom where the teacher took a picture of each child on the first day of school and will do the same on the last day of school. Too cute!

There are also very creative ways to mark the spot where Sally and Sam are on the chart. This photo shows the use of the Birds & Blooms Sizzlit Die (item #113485). The bird can be moved as the child grows, soaring to new heights!
















And here is a cute book charting a child's growth with photos in front of the growth chart.

Growth Chart Special Offer

Dates: August 1 - September 30, 2009

Promotion Details:
Purchase the brand-new Décor Elements Growth Chart, only available August 1-September 30, and as an added bonus, receive a free applicator tool with your purchase (a $1.95 value).

Item #	Description	Price
117519	Décor Elements Growth Chart	$24.95

You may order directly online by clicking here or call me at 210-492-3218, and I will place the order for you.

More Cute Animals:)

Don't you love this card???!!! I do:) This is one of my daughter's designs. (Tiffany Mirisoleiman is also a Stampin' Up! demonstrator and we both have a blast running our businesses!) This card is all about texture and shadows. The Dusty Durango layer was run through the Big Shot with one of the Texturz Plates. The Top Note and Large Oval are both sponged to add depth and shadow. This is a great unisex card, equally appealing to men and women, using the new Pendant Park stamp set. Click here to learn more about my classes and calendar, and then call me at 210-492-3218. I would be happy to come and do a private class for you and your friends!

Dog Lovers Card

Having taken my doggie to the vet today, I thought I would post a card for us dog-lovers. This was stamped by a fellow-demonstrator, Bobbie Ganley, and is just too cute to keep to myself:) It didn't quite come out in the photo, but the dog is actually embossed clear, so he has touchable texture--how appropriate! Contact me today at 210-492-3218 or crattray@sbcglobal.net to schedule a workshop. It costs you nothing, and you can earn free stuff to make cool cards like this one.

Card Recipe:
Stamps: Teeny Tiny Wishes, D is for Dog, Itty Bitty Backgrounds
Ink: Close to Cocoa Craft Stampin' Pad
Paper: Close to Cocoa, Old Olive, Whisper White, Chocolate Chip
Accessories: Scallop Edge, Modern Label, 1" and 1 1/4" Circle Punches, Big Shot, Modern Label Movers Die, Old Olive 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Clear embossing Powder, Heat Tool, Tall Tales Designer Series Paper

The Low-Down on Buying Tax Free

Fabulous savings!!! August 21-23 is tax free shopping in Texas, and that means savings for us. Simply place your order online by clicking here and then on "shop now." When you choose any of the items listed below, your order will automatically be totalled sans tax. Cool, huh?

If you live in San Antonio and would like to pick up your order at my house and thereby receive 10% shipping (no minimum shpg charges), then just call 210-492-3218 or email me at crattray@sbcglobal.net with your order. I will let you know when your order arrives.

Tax Free List for August 21-23, 2009:

• Uni-ball Signo gel pen, 105021, $3.95
• Basic Black Stampin’ Write journaler, 105394, $3.25
• Stampin’ Write markers, various, $3.25
• Watercolor Pencils, 101879, $19.95
• Watercolor Wonder Crayons Bold Brights, 106695, $19.95
• Watercolor Wonder Crayons Earth Elements, 106696, $19.95
• Watercolor Wonder Crayons Rich Regals, 106698, $19.95
• Watercolor Wonder Crayons Soft Subtles, 106697, $19.95
• Watercolor Wonder Crayons Neutrals, 106746, $9.95
• Stampin’ Pastels, 105542, $24.95
• Craft & Rubber scissors, 103179, $19.95
• Paper snips, 103579, $9.95
• Craft & Paper scissors, 108360, $29.95
• Pencil sharpener, 100745, $4.95
• Blender pens, 102845, $9.95
• 2-Way Glue Pen, 100425, $3.50
• SNAIL adhesive, 104332, $6.95
• SNAIL refill, 104331, $4.50
• Mini Glue Dots, 103683, $4.95
• Pop-Up Glue Dots, 104183, $3.95
• Stampin’ Dimensionals, 104430, $3.95
• Anywhere Glue Stick, 104045, $3.95
• Dotto, 103305, $12.95
• Dotto refill, 100902, $6.50
• Sticky Strip, 104294, $6.95
• Tombow Adhesive, 110755, $3.95

I can't wait to hear from you and help you to stock up while saving $$$. I'm stocking up this weekend, too!

Buy Tax-Free Starting Tomorrow!

Tax free shopping begins tomorrow, and I'm taking orders now through Sunday, August 23rd. That is the LAST DAY for these 8.125% savings. Click here to see the full list of tax-free items.

To help you decide what to buy, here is an article written by my Stampin' Up! Demonstrator daughter, Tiffany Mirisoleiman, on the different uses for our various adhesives. Learn and enjoy!


"Which Stampin' Up! adhesives should I use and when?"

I'd like to highlight the following adhesives: SNAIL, Anywhere Gluesticks, Tom-Bow Multi Purpose Adhesive, Mini Glue Dots, Sticky Strip, & Dimensionals.

SNAIL: the 'neat & tidy' adhesive, perfect for applying layers on cards and scrap book pages etc.... This is my favorite all purpose adhesive!

Anywhere Gluesticks: these gluesticks are great for reaching into the corners of your projects, being rectangular in shape- they also give you a little 'wiggle room' before drying. Once this adhesive dries, it's there for keeps- another great all purpose adhesive option.

Tom-Bow Multi-Purpose Adhesive: this liquid adhesive is very strong and perfect for chipboard elements, pearls, hodgepodge hardware etc... as well as applying hand stamped covers to notebooks. You'll have a few moments to adjust placement and then it's not moving again! The applicator is dual tipped for different widths of adhesive application. Tom-Bow is a must for projects that you're wanting to last and that will be handled a lot.

Mini Glue Dots: these cute little super-sticky dots are the perfect solution for applying flower fusion elements (felt flowers), ribbon, buttons etc.... They're another 'tidy' adhesive option for small elements!

Sticky Strip: this adhesive is one of the strongest and perfect for forming boxes, mini scrapbooks etc.... Once applied this adhesive is not moving so place carefully! It's also a great option when covering notebooks.

Dimensionals: these little 'pop up' spongy dots allow your elements to have a 3D appearance- they're one of my favorite adhesives! I often say that I can't design a card without using at least one dimensional:) They're great value and I promise you'll love them!

As a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, I firmly stand behind all of our products and especially their adhesives. I've tried many other adhesives in the past and always came back to Stampin' Up! adhesives- they're the best quality, acid free so they are safe for your projects, and the best value. I vouch that you won't find an alternate adhesive with equal quality to Stampin' Up! adhesives for a better price tag. There are plenty of alternate adhesives but the quality is lacking. I challenge you, as co-creators, to choose Stampin' Up! adhesives and see the difference for yourself. You won't be disappointed and your projects will be happier:) Your recipients should receive cards that are well made and made to last!

Organized in Style!

These are the new file folders in the new in colors that are an incredible deal and really just so pretty and stylish. They are on page 169 of the new Idea Book & Catalog and are just $10.95 for 12 folders (3 each of 4 different designs). They coordinate with the Thoroughly Modern Desginer Series Papers and are a nice, heavy weight. In addition, they are on the tax free list for August 21-23!

I bought some just recently and they have made my vertical inbox look much more attractive as well as inviting. This has the added bonus of making me want to use these pretty folders! That means my workspace is more organized:) To label my file folders, I put a piece of Whisper White Card Stock into my printer and typed out the categories for my files. I then punched out my labels with my Modern Label Punch. What a great way to organize in style!

Call today to order your folders and/or other "school supply" type items that you would like to get tax free. I won't place the order until Aug. 21-23 so that we get in on this great Texas tradition of helping families while helping businesses and even individuals. So call today: 210-492-3218. Or email me at crattray@sbcglobal.net.

Scrapbookers, Arise!

I have 3 spots available in my scrapbooking hostess club. We meet the 2nd Thursday evening of each month for a great girls night out of creative fun. When you join you will:

• Make new friends
• Create 2 full 12x12 layouts each month
• Learn new skills and techniques
• Get to try out lots of different stamps, papers, embellishments, and more
• Build your scrapping supplies a little at a time
• Get a free stamp set or set of papers and at least $15 free merchandise on your hostess month

Sound good? Call me at 210-492-3218 to get more info and sign up or email me at crattray@sbcglobal.net. I look forward to scrapping with you!

Endless Summer

This makes me think of the Beach Boys and fun at the beach. Isn't this a great card (made by a fellow demonstrator) with a very modern, trendy stamp set. This set will also scrapbook nicely. Contact me today to order these supplies and more or just to talk stamping: 210-492-3218.

In addition, this card uses one of the brayering techniques I will be teaching in the upcoming August Techniques Class on Friday, August 28th, 6:30-8:30. Join me and learn to create this stunning technique to raise your cards up to the next level. You must rsvp with payment by Friday, August 21st.

Hostess Club Cards

Here is one of the cards we made at our Hostess Clubs in August. (We make 3 projects each month.) Don't you wish you had been there? Contact me today to reserve your spot in the 2nd Tuesday Club. I have spots coming open in November as well as Scrapbook Club spots available. (210) 492-3218.

$25 Gift Certificates Being Given Away!

We are in the last 2 weeks for earning Summer Rewards! At the end of this month, I will be drawing tickets for four, yes FOUR $25 gift certificates to be redeemed for Stampin' Up! merchandise of your choice and/or one of my classes.You receive tickets for the drawing when you attend classes, place orders, or host a Stampin' Up! workshop.

The 4 lucky winners' names will be drawn by my grandchildren. The "ticket vase" is getting very full! There were a lot of people earning tickets tonight at Becky's workshop. We had a great time making projects and meeting new friends. And everyone there earned at least two tickets! Time is running out, so hurry!

Here's how you can win:

Attend any monthly card class: 1 ticket

Attend a workshop: 2 tickets

Place a $50 order: 3 tickets

Place a $75 order: 4 tickets

Place a $100 order: 5 tickets

Host a workshop: 10 tickets

Call me today to book your workshop/party, sign up for a class, or place an order. Click here and then on Shop Now to place your order online. It couldn't be easier. If you prefer, call me at 210-492-3218, and I will place the order for you.

Techniques Class Debut

(This card made by another Stampin' Up! demonstrator using the Brayered Sunset technique.)

Would you like to learn techniques that add a more artistic touch to your projects? Would you like hands-on instruction in learning new skills? Then Techniques Class is for you! You will learn how to use the brayer in this first class, which is a cool tool and sure to wow you. 2 cards each of 2 different applications of brayering techniques. This class is more intense than a regular card class. You don't have to be a veteran stamper--just have a desire to learn some of the more in-depth techniques that cannot be taught due to time constraints in a normal card class. We will be using Inspired by Nature and Autumn Days stamp sets. $20, all materials supplied except your Snail or Anywhere Glue Sticks. So bring your basic adhesive of choice, the rest is mine to provide.

Techniques class is a monthly class, usually occurring during the last week of each month. Check my Stampin' Up! calendar for details of all my events.

This first techniques class. focusing on brayering, is Friday, August 28th, 6:30-8:30 p.m. RSVP with payment by Friday, August 21st. You may use the Paypal button below for your convenience or mail a check if you prefer. Feel free to call with any questions: 210-492-3218.

Tax-Free Holiday Coming Your Way!

August 21-23 is tax-free holiday in Texas, and school supplies are included for the first time this year. A number of Stampin' Up! items qualify as school supplies and thus are available TAX FREE on those days. Here is the list:

• Uni-ball Signo gel pen, 105021, $3.95
• Basic Black Stampin’ Write journaler, 105394, $3.25
• Stampin’ Write markers, various, $3.25
• Watercolor Pencils, 101879, $19.95
• Watercolor Wonder Crayons Bold Brights, 106695, $19.95
• Watercolor Wonder Crayons Earth Elements, 106696, $19.95
• Watercolor Wonder Crayons Rich Regals, 106698, $19.95
• Watercolor Wonder Crayons Soft Subtles, 106697, $19.95
• Watercolor Wonder Crayons Neutrals, 106746, $9.95
• Craft & Rubber scissors, 103179, $19.95
• Paper snips, 103579, $9.95
• Pencil sharpener, 100745, $4.95
• 2-Way Glue Pen, 100425, $3.50
• SNAIL adhesive, 104332, $6.95
• SNAIL refill, 104331, $4.50
• Mini Glue Dots, 103683, $4.95
• Pop-Up Glue Dots, 104183, $3.95
• Stampin’ Dimensionals, 104430, $3.95
• Anywhere Glue Stick, 104045, $3.95
• Dotto, 103305, $12.95
• Dotto refill, 100902, $6.50
• Sticky Strip, 104294, $6.95
• Tombow Adhesive, 110755, $3.95
• File Folders, 115692, $10.95

You can place your order online at candystamps.stampinup.net If you would prefer to call me to place your order, feel free--(210) 492-3218 If you are happy to pick up your order from my house, I will give you 10% shipping. If you live in San Antonio, that is an 18.125% savings for shopping on those days! (10% off shipping, 8.125% off tax) So stock up on those supplies, get sets of markers, and be ready to stamp!

Only Until August 31st!

Become a Stampin' Up! demonstrator with the limited-time $85 Mini Starter Kit. The Mini Starter Kit contains the following products:

Item Code	Page #*	Description	Retail Value**
115360	118	For All You Do stamp set	$28.95
115658	155	Rich Razzleberry Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.95
115656	155	Melon Mambo Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.95
115659	155	Crushed Curry Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.95
115654	155	Dusty Durango Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.95
115655	155	Bermuda Bay Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.95
115657	155	Soft Suede Classic Stampin' Pad	$5.95
100730	155	Whisper White card stock (8-1/2" x 11")	$7.50
115315	155	In Color assorted card stock (8-1/2" x 11")	$7

You will also receive the same business supplies as those who order the standard Starter Kit.

• Being a demonstrator is more than just a product discount (20%!) --or even the opportunity to join with a solid company to earn money doing something enjoyable. For many people, being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator is a life-enhancing experience that enables them to escape from everyday life, share their passion, meet new people, associate with friends, and find real self-expression through creativity.

• Learn more about the Stampin' Up! opportunity and all it can do for you! Visit the "Start Your Own Business" page on my website for the many reasons why you should sign up today!

This offer expires August 31st, so hurry! Everything you need to get started in a home-based business is in this mini-kit. You can also purchase the regular full-sized kit for $199 and get all 6 of the new in colors stamp pads and assorted cardstock FREE! Choose the kit that best suits your needs, and jump into business ownership today! Call me for more information or just to chat (210) 492-3218.

Sweet Deal for Hostesses!

Hostess a workshop/party during September-November, to receive this great deal:

Host a workshop totaling $250 or more and choose any one item* from the 2009 Holiday Mini Catalog for only $10!

I realize that you have not yet seen the Holiday Mini Catalog, but you will soon. Having seen it myself, I can assure you that there are FABULOUS things to help you celebrate Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and even New Year's with great style! There's a lot to love:)

In addition to receiving any one item in the mini for $10, you will also receive a Level 1 Hostess set of stamps or papers from the Idea Book and Catalog absolutely free PLUS $25 to spend any way you like in the Catalog or the mini. That's a lot of free stuff and just in time to get you ready for the holidays.

Call me today at 210-492-3218 for the best dates on my calendar and let's stamp!

Country Living Summer Cookout Kit, 40% Off!

40% Off Summer Cookout Kit!
August 1, 2009

What a steal! You can barbecue in style and save $$$. Now that's a sweet deal. Here in Texas, we haven't been barbecuing because it's been too hot! The Country Living Summer Cookout Kit is being offered at a 40 percent discount--making it just $14.95! And with plenty of summer left to celebrate, it's a great time to take advantage of this huge discount. The Summer Cookout Refill is also still available at its regular price of $9.95.

This special offer only goes through August 31, or while supplies last, so contact me today or click here and start ordering and saving. The product numbers are:

Item #	Description	Price
118070	Country Living Summer Cookout Kit	$14.95
119193	Country Living Summer Cookout Refill	$9.95

Because we barbecue a lot in the autumn, this is just in time to have autumn barbecues with plenty of style.

Christmas Card Club Fun!

We had a blast today! Two sessions of Christmas Card Club--a monthly class where we make Christmas cards while listening to Christmas music and enjoying uninterrupted creative time with great women. Come join us next month! We meet the 2nd Saturday of every month through December. The morning session meets 9:30-11:30, and the afternoon session meets 1:30-3:30. This is one of our creations today. If you scroll down a bit, you will see the Snowmen card we also did. There are 3 designs each month, a total of 6 cards. We use a variety of stamp sets, styles, and techniques. The paypal button is here if you would like to go ahead and reserve your spot for September. Make sure to choose whether you wish to attend the morning or afternoon session. The price is the same. See you there!

Sept. Xmas Card Class

morning class $20.00 afternoon class $20.00

Using those new buttons...

See how easy it is to make a card using the buttons that are FREE right now with a qualifying purchase from Stampin' Up! I love this simple, sweet, yet stunning card, made by Andrea Walford, a very talented demonstrator in Canada.

You, too, can get stunning effects using the buttons in the current promotion. They come in color combinations that already work well together, making your projects look great without really trying.

Click here to get your free buttons today by simply ordering some of the great stamp sets in the Growing Up section of the Idea Book & Catalog. Be ready for fall birthdays, holidays, and life! If you prefer to order by phone, call me at 210-492-3218.

Cardmaking 101: Adding a Layer

Now that you have created a card base, you are ready to add a layer. Layers add color, interest, and depth to your card. Although you can produce a single layer card, there are few designs that will work as a single layer with a truly great finished design. Multiple layers increase your design options and your wow factors! We will start with the simplest layer of all: one that is 1/4 " smaller than your card base, providing you with a 1/8" border, or mat, all the way around your card, giving you a nice frame for you main image.
Card base: 5 1/2 x 4 1/4
Layer: 5 1/4 x 4

Cute project for August...and beyond!

This featured project from Stampin' Up! certainly brings back memories of my old Girl Scout days! If you are not a scout, how about having a casual get- together or kids' party and making your S'mores in your outdoor grill? This little project is sure to wow your guests--even the young ones:)

Stamps: Under The Stars

Paper: Cardstock - Real Red, Whisper White; Textured Cardstock - Creamy Caramel

Ink: Classic - Basic Black, Cream Caramel, Real Red, So Saffron

Tools & Accessories: Large Flat Cellophane Bags, Linen Thread, Stampin' Dimensionals, Blender Pens, Stamping Sponges

Instructions:

1. Stamp racoon image in Basic Black Classic Ink, mosquito image in Creamy Caramel Classic Ink, and "Grrreat!" sentiment in Real Red Classic Ink on Whisper White Cardstock bag topper.
2. Adhere strip of Real Red Cardstock to bag topper.
3. Stamp two stars in So Saffron Classic Ink on Whisper White Cardstock. Cut out and adhere to Whisper White Cardstock using Stampin' Dimensionals.
4. Use a printer to print words "Camping" and "treats" on Creamy Caramel Textured Cardstock. Cut out in shape of sign. Color edges of sign in Cream Caramel Classic Ink using Stamping Sponges. Adhere to bag topper.
5. Stamp s'more image in Cream Caramel Classic Ink on Whisper White Cardstock. Watercolor image in Creamy Caramel Classic Ink using Blender Pen. Cut out and adhere to sign on bag topper.
6. Tie linen thread around bag topper.

To order the supplies for this project, visit my online store or e-mail me at crattray@sbcglobal.net for personal assistance with your order.

Check out my sidebar!

Have you ever really noticed by sidebar--the right hand margin on my blog? It's chock-full of all the current specials, links to all the Stampin' Up! publications, and even free project inspiration! Check them out today by just looking at the right side of the screen and scrolling down.

I update my sidebar at least once a month, more often if there are more new things to share with you! The project in the sidebar right now is kid-friendly (the pirate project, arrgh!) Enjoy, matey:)

Christmas Card Club-August

Saturday, August 8th, Christmas Card Class

9:30-11:30

1:30-3:30, second seating

This popular class enables you to be prepared with hand-stamped cards for mailing or giving during the holidays. Get started now and stamp in the cool while it's hot outside. The Christmas music will be playing, and the fun will be flowing! Use a variety of stamp sets and papers, learn some simple new techniques, and have a great time. $20 covers all supplies. (Bring your own basic adhesive such as Snail or Anywhere Glue Stick. All specialty adhesives are provided.) Payment must be received by Thursday, August 6th for either seating. (Use the safe and convenient paypal button below.)

Free Buttons!

Growing Up Promotion

Dates: August 1-31, 2009

Promotion Details:

Spend $35 on stamp sets from the Growing Up section of the 2009-2010 Idea Book & Catalog (pages 74-90) and receive a FREE package of Designer buttons–a $7.95 value! Eligible buttons are listed below.

Item #	Page	Description	Retail Value
116313	181	Playground Designer buttons	$7.95
116312	181	Sherbet Designer buttons	$7.95
114333	181	Button Latte Designer buttons	$7.95

Things to Remember:

• Online and workshop orders qualify for this promotion.
• Growing Up section stamps include the Pirate and Princess Personalized Name stamps from the party kits but not the kits themselves.
• Stampin’ Around wheels do not qualify as a stamp set.
• There is no limit to the number of free buttons you may earn. For every $35 you spend on Growing Up stamp sets, you will receive a free package of Designer buttons.

Let buttons, in shades from versatile to sweet to fun be YOUR embellishment of choice for everything from cards to scrap pages to wall art. Color coordinated to enhance the beauty of your projects and take them up an extra notch or two! Click here to Shop Now and get started with this FREE offer.

Just for Kids!

It seems kids grow up so fast these days! With the Décor Elements Growth Chart (click for an up-close look:) you can track that growth with more than an unsightly pencil mark on the wall. Chart comes in Old Olive, Taken with Teal, and Chocolate Chip. Only available through September 30!

Growth Chart Special Offer...
Dates: August 1 - September 30, 2009Promotion Details:

Purchase the brand-new Décor Elements Growth Chart, only available August 1-September 30, and as an added bonus, receive a free applicator tool with your purchase (a $2.25 value).

There is no limit to the number of Growth Charts you may order so grab one for each child - or set them aside for shower gifts. A free applicator tool will automatically be included on each order. You can order this product starting today, August 1st, by clicking here and then clicking on Shop Now. Then just click on the picture of the kids having fun and have some fun yourself!