Blog Giveaway Winner

Thanks to all who left comments for my February Blog Giveaway!  I've been so busy posting, I forgot about my blog giveaway and missed a whole month!  So now I'm back on track.  And the winner is...Alicia!  Alicia's name was drawn (by my DIL Nicole) and she will receive 2 Stampin' Write Markers for the February Blog Giveaway as a result of leaving a comment.  Thanks, Alicia, for playing and congratulations on the new additions to your coloring arsenal:)  Stampin' Write Markers are fabulous for watercoloring, using straight for regular coloring in and applying ink directly to a stamp.  They are double tipped with one brush tip and one fine writing tip.  As with all our inks, they are safe to use for scrapbooking.

Survey Said!

Fancy Folds Cards Class

As a Stampin' Up! demonstrator, I am always learning new techniques, tools, products, and more to further enhance my stamping abilities.  And I pass on to you, my loyal customers, what I learn so that you, too, can add to your stamping repertoire.

I've been learning some Fancy Folds techniques that bring a really different look and feel to a hand stamped card.  I'll be teaching two of these folds at the next Techniques Class, right around the corner of the calendar on Tuesday, April 6th.   This is one of the cards we will be doing.  It's called a Z Fold Card because the fold looks like a Z.  It's a fun design, and I added a little ribbon tab to use when pulling open the card.  The inside panel is for writing and signing, and I think it's a lovely spring birthday card!  Later in the week, I'll post the other card we will be doing, an easel card for the guys.

Here you can see the Z Fold Card when it is folded and then again when it is open.  The middle panel is left blank for your own personal message.  Once again, I'm using the fabulous Awash with Flowers stamp set for a birthday card awash with spring color! 

• Techniques Class-Fancy Folds

• Tuesday, April 6th, 6:30-8:30

• $20 covers all supplies and hands-on instruction

• Make 2 each of 2 custom-designed cards with matching envelopes

Stampin' Up! Rewards and Hostess Benefits

Stampin' Up! Rewards Program  Pamper yourself with your own Stampin' Up! workshop, or team up and order with a few friends, and receive special rewards and more!  Stampin' Up!'s  Stampin' Rewards and Hostess Benefits programs instantly kick in with a minimum product order of $150 and increases in $50 increments. The benefits chart below gives you all the numbers!

• Individual orders (including online orders) earn full benefits.
• All free hostess gifts and merchandise awards are available instantly with qualifying orders, regular or online.
• Stampin' Rewards = Hostess Benefits.  These are two names for the same thing.  When you place an online order , Stampin' Up! refers to these benefits as Stampin' Rewards.  When you host a workshop or gather orders totalling $150 or more, they are referred to as Hostess Benefits.

Please contact me with any questions about Hostess Benefits/Stampin' Rewards, either by calling me at 210-492-3218 or by emailing me--just use the live "email me" button in the sidebar to your right. I will answer any questions you may have.  Then you can start making your choice of free items before placing your online order ).

BENEFITS CHART

EXAMPLES:

• If you place a product order totaling $150 to $200, you may choose any Hostess Level 1 set AND receive $15 in free Stampin' Up! merchandise.  I've had many customers that didn't realize they would receive the Level 1 set as well as the free merchandise.  This is not an either/or choice.  You receive both!

• If you place an order totaling $300 up to $350, you may choose either a Hostess Level 1 gift OR a Hostess Level 2 gift.  PLUS, you earn $35 in free merchandise.

• If you place an order totaling $500 up to $550, you may choose either three Hostess Level 1 gifts OR  two Level 1 and one Level 2 gift OR a Level 1 and a Level 3 gift.  PLUS, you earn $50 in free merchandise. (The cute card below, made by my Stampin' Up! Demonstrator daughter, uses a Level 3 Hostess set, The More the Merrier.)

The Sunday Post, Awash with Flowers

This sympathy card is lovely in its spring colors and watercolored flowers.  People die during all times of the year, and I like sympathy cards to evoke the season as well as offer comfort and hope.  This sympathy card, using Awash With Flowers, does all that and more.  Do you know someone who will need this card in the near future?  I'm supplying the recipe so that you can minister handmade, heartfelt comfort during your loved one's darkest time.

Recipe:
Stamps:  Awash With Flowers, Close as a Memory
Ink:  Black Staz On, Blush Blossom, Dusty Durango, Mellow Moss Stampin' Write Markers
Paper:  Blush Blossom, Dusty Durango, Mellow Moss card stocks, Watercolor Paper
Accessories:  Scallop Trim Border Punch, Aquapainter, Mellow Moss Taffeta Ribbon

Saturday Sample - Easter Card

Today's sample is another of my daughter Tiffany's creations and is a lovely picture of springtime with perfect Easter colors.  This is a simple card with minimal stamping.  Notice the tone-on-tone sponging around the eggs as well as the dry embossing.  The embossing is done with various Big Shot embossing folders bringing lots of interest to these otherwise plain eggs, and the sponging brings depth. 

supply list:
Stamps:  All Holidays, Inspired by Nature
Ink:  Bashful Blue, Pretty in Pink, So Saffron
Paper:  Orchid Opulence, Certainly Celery, Whisper White, So Saffron, Bashful Blue
Other:  Eggcellent Eggs Kit, Stampin' Up! Beautiful Wings Embosslit, Stampin' Up! Perfect Polka Dots, Stampin' Up! Petals-a-Plenty, and Stampin' Up! Elegant Bouquet Embossing Folders, Wide Oval Punch, Stampin' Sponges

My Story

I was recently asked to write My Story--how I became a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator, and I thought I would share it with you!  So here goes:

I was living a busy life when a dear friend invited me to a “Stampin’ Up! workshop.”  I had never heard of Stampin’ Up! and had never stamped, although I had done some crafting years ago.   Joyce was such a sweetheart that I couldn’t let her down by not attending her event even though I would be late, coming straight from work, and would not be buying anything.  I came into her house, and there were a lot of people surrounding a demonstrator (Gail, now my upline), watching her make some fantastic cards.  I was immediately mesmerized.  I had never seen anything like what was being shown.  Gail finished her demonstration and told us all to go to the various stations she had set up with “Make and Takes.”  I made a card and then a little get well gift for someone who might be under the weather or hospitalized.  I was hooked!  I thought it would be fun to make Christmas cards (this first workshop for me was in October), so I talked to Gail and placed an order (!).  I took the catalog home and pored over every page, creating a wish list a mile long.

Although life was very busy, I loved the satisfaction of making something beautiful in just a few minutes.  I loved the sense of accomplishment and well-being brought by my stamping and quickly realized that making time for stamping meant making life better.  I showed everything to my daughter, then in college.  We decided to hold a workshop of our own, which was a grand success.  Getting all those free stamps and supplies was fantastic!  Soon, we were going to stamp camps, classes, and hosting workshops regularly.  We were not only making  Christmas cards but birthday cards and lots of gifts, too, and having a blast!

My husband is a pastor and my job was beginning to conflict with my life.  What began as a part- time job (which I enjoyed) had become, mostly, a full time one.  I needed something with much more flexible hours in order to be available for my husband and the church.  I was ready to ditch the job but not the paycheck!.  In the midst of another stress-filled time (my daughter was getting married in mere weeks), I called my demonstrator and signed up, got the wedding done, and then turned in my notice at work.

Now I work my Sweet Stamper business as a full-time Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator, lovin’ what I do with the flexible hours I need and an additional income for my husband and me.  (My 3 kids are all grown and married.)  Stampin' Up! is not only a creative outlet for me (which I truly love), but also a very real source of income and stamping gear.  My daughter is also a Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator and a part of my team.  We teach our classes together for double fun!  I love sharing with others the joy of handmade, heartfelt.  Seeing the joy people receive when making something beautiful is a large part of my business energy!  And the relationships I develop with customers as well as team members is one of the most gratifying aspects of being a stamping business owner.  I began with an intent to make money while doing what I love.  I hadn't foreseen the many friendships that would be the icing on this very delicious cake!

Class Kit by Mail

The Vintage Vogue/Shades of Spring Class Kit by Mail is still available.  I have extended its shelf life!  With the spring color palette and design, I will be making several more of these sets for my own use.  As such, I thought you might be in the same boat.  These make a great gift to yourself (!) as well as a lovely gift for someone you are visiting.  Whether you are an overnight guest at someone's home, a dinner guest, or need a perfect birthday gift, this Class Kit by Mail is for you!

You can purchase it right here.

• Receive all the pre-cut card stock, designer series papers, ribbons, brads, etc. needed to complete the projects.
• Receive by email the full instructions, including color photos, to complete the projects.
• $13.50-pick up your packet from my house
• $18.50-receive your packet in the mail, sent by priority mail

You may send a check or use the paypal button (.75 fee attached) below.

Shades of Spring Kit by Mail

Pick up option $14.25 Priority mail option $19.25

More new pages!

Have you noticed the page options at the top of my blog multiplying?  It's spring time, and my blog pages are multiplying like rabbits!

You can now click on 5 separate pages to check out the various aspects of my Sweetstamper business.  Check out:

Classes Available-if you didn't see the post announcing a class, you can still see the full details and even register for any current class by simply going to this page.  You will find card classes as well as Big Shot classes here.
Scrapbook Classes Available-Book of Me and other current scrapbook classes are be posted here along with registration info.
Join the Fun!-this is the page that will always give you the low-down on how you can join my team.  I have a great team and call this page "Join the Fun!" because it is, indeed, so much fun being a Stampin' Up! demonstrator!  I love what I do and would love to help you do the same:)
Clubs-Stamp and Scrap-this page lets you know all the details of my hostess clubs.  They are great for regular, monthly stamping while building your supplies on a budget.  You will find available club spaces posted here.
Class Kits by Mail-this page shows the current Class Kits by Mail.  If you miss a regular class or don't live nearby, this is a great option for you.

So check out my multiplying pages!  My aim is that you have all the current information concerning events and opportunities at your fingertips without having to scroll through my entire blog.  (But feel free to scroll and look at older posts!) They will be updated regularly so that you have all the latest.  So check them out today, and sign up for a class, club, or my team:)

Birthday Bliss stamp set

This cute little card is a snap to put together.  It uses the Birthday Bliss stamp set, one of the free stamp sets available during Sale-a-Bration.  Here's the list of supplies: stamps:  Birthday Bliss ink:  Chocolate Chip Classic Stampin' Pad paper:  Bermuda Bay Textured Card Stock (part of the assorted pack of in colors textured card stock), Pretty in Pink, Whisper White, Melon Mambo Card stocks other:  Chocolate Chip 5/8" Grosgrain Ribbon, Clear Rhinestone Brads, Trio Flower Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals

To purchase any of these supplies, simply click on candystamps.stampinup.net.  Once there, click on Products and then Shop Now.  My website will guide you through the ordering process.  Don't forget that we are still in the Sale-a-Bration period which means free stamps, papers, or a punch with EVERY $50 spent.  This offer ends March, 31st, so hurry!

Two-Step into Spring

Here in South Texas, Two-Step normally refers to dancing.  But in the international world of stamping, Two-Step is a fun stamping method created by Stampin' Up!  It's two-step because you stamp one image and then stamp another (specially designed) image right on top of it to create a very special look.  Two-step stamping is soaring to greater heights with our new Clear Mount Stamps as they make it easier than ever to get that second image placed exactly where you want it. 

To celebrate spring, Stampin' Up! is offering the lovely Awash with Flowers as a sneak peek into the summer catalog.  You may purchase this fabulous two step stamp set (pictured in photo), only during April (until its full release in July).

• 117062  Awash with Flowers (set of 18)  $39.95
• 120549  Awash with Flowers (set of 18)  $27.95

Better yet, you can earn this set FREE by hosting a qualifying workshop ($350) during the month of April.  So what are you waiting for?  Call me today at 210-492-3218 or email me at candy@sweetstamper.com to book a date for your own workshop.  You can use my Studio for the venue, or I can come to you.  I do travel with my stamps, so call me even if you don't live nearby.  We will work out something so that you can make something special, share time with your friends, AND earn free stamps!

This offer only good April 1-April 30.

The Sunday Post

This beautiful card (made by another stamper) is truly inspiring in what it says as well as its design. What a lovely way to convey meaningful truth! This card features the Refuge and Strength stamp set, a real mainstay for inspirational cards.

Saturday Sample

Today I'm sharing another of Tiffany's creations.  Tiffany is my daughter and also a Stampin' Up Demonstrator.  She made this card for her step-son whose birthday was this week.  The soccer images as well as the Goal word are from the Just Soccer stamp set (Sale-a-Bration item #120219), one of 50+ free stamp set options available during Sale-a-Bration.  The images in this set are great for masculine cards as well as scrapbooking.  This set is a must-have for any and all soccer fans.  A little embossing or Crystal Effects brings texture to the soccer ball and shoe, and a little repeat stamping makes the ball and shoe look like they are in motion.  Pretty cool, huh?

My husband was just telling me this morning that the World Cup is right around the corner:  June 11-July 11.  As I'm writing this post, I'm thinking of some awesome favors and fun things I can make with Just Soccer to help the team spirit!

To place your order today and receive the Just Soccer stamp set FREE (with a qualifying order), simply go to candystamps.stampinup.net  Just click on products and then shop now to start shopping while you earn free stamps. This offer is good through March 31st only, so hurry!

Wood Mount vs. Clear Mount-Storage

So just how much difference is there between wood mount and clear mount when it comes to storage? 

There are 17 stamp sets in the Occasions Mini Catalog that are available in both wood mount and the new clear mount.  The stack on the left represents those 17 sets in their clear mount storage cases, while the stack on the right represents the same 17 sets mounted on wood and in their traditional storage cases.  The space savings is obvious!  Not only do they take up less space, they are all the same size (the size of a DVD storage case) which makes storing and transporting them much easier. Most of us are space-challenged, and this new clear mount option really addresses that need. 

Of course, storage is only one aspect of the wood mount vs. clear mount debate.  Personally, I have some of both and enjoy both for different reasons.  I did just purchase the new Awash with Flowers stamp set that will debut in April.  (See posts below for pics.)   I chose the clear mount specifically because the Awash with Flowers set is a two-step stamp set.  That means you can stamp an image and then stamp another image directly on top for a totally different look.  The clear mount makes this ultra-easy and gives really good placement.

When it comes time to place your order the choice is up to you.  What will you choose?  You are welcome to come by my studio to try out the clear mounts if you haven't already.  Just call me at 210-492-3218 or email me at candy@sweetstamper.com to arrange a time. 

Big Shot Class-Easter

Have you thought about buying a Big Shot but aren't sure if you would really use it?  Do you have a Big Shot but aren't quite sure what to do now?  Do you not have a Big Shot purchase in your budget just yet but would like to play with one?  This class is for you! 

  My aim with this class is to teach you to use many types of dies with the various "sandwiches" needed to run them through the Big Shot.  YOU will use Bigz dies, a Bigz Clear Die, an Originals Die, a Sizzlits Decorative Strip Die, a Sizzlits Die, an Embosslit Die, and a Texturz Plate during this class.  Each die has its distinct properties, and some have different "sandwiches."  That's why we're having class!  The bonus is the cute Easter projects all ready to help you celebrate.  This is a class you won't want to miss, and seating is limited.  So sign up today.  It's first come, first served.

Friday, March 26th, 6:30-8:30
My Stamping Studio (13246 Trentwood)
$20.00 includes all materials and hands-on instruction

Bring your own basic adhesive
RSVP with payment due by Monday, March 22nd

St. Patrick's Day Punch Art

I just had to share this, my clever daughter's creations!  For full details, check out the post on her blog, here.  Tiffany is also a Stampin' Up! demonstrator and makes her mom very proud!

St. Patrick's Day is not yet over, so get out your punches, and get punching!  Make someone's day with a little something...handmade, heartfelt:)

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

This is a little pin we made in hostess club this month. I'm lookin' out for my club ladies so none of them get pinched! These pins go together in just minutes and utilize the Full Heart Punch as well as the Wide Oval Punch and Go Green single stamp. Got a little punchy, there!  These would be great to make for the whole office...next year:)

Be ready for EVERY holiday and celebration by shopping in my online store.  There is something for every holiday, and you can customize things to suit YOUR taste.  Ah...the joys of stamping!  Order at candystamps.stampinup.net.  Once you are there, simply click on Products and then Shop Now.  Email me using the link in my sidebar with any questions at all.

Become a Demonstrator for Less!

The opportunity to become a demonstrator for less is almost over!

Did you ever dream about owning your own business?  There is no better time to start your own business. Your own scrap book or stamping store is just a few clicks away.  Whether it's to set your own hours around an existing job or allow you to stay at home with your kids, being a Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator is just like having your own craft store.  But with many more benefits:

• There is a minimal initial financial investment which translates to low risk
• Your merchandise is catalog based, so there are no excessive inventory issues
• You have full control of your customers and projects
• You are able to set your own hours, enabling you to work as little or as much as you like.
• There is no further obligation to buy anything.  (You are able to get all of your Stampin' Up! supplies at a 20% discount as long as you remain a demonstrator.)

Whether you're a hobby demonstrator and just enjoy the perks of becoming a Stampin' Up! Independent Demonstrator, or you're looking to create a revenue stream by pursuing a career, now is the time to act.  The Starter Kit is on sale through Sale-a-Bration (ends March 31st), so you save from the start.  If you're worried about training, don't worry!  Stampin' Up! provides fabulous training via video and website, and I provide personal training for all my team.  So what are you waiting for?  Go to candystamps.stampinup.net to learn more and/or get started.  My password is candystamps.  I can't wait to have you on my team!

Awash in Shades of Spring

I can't stop "planting flowers" with this new stamp set!  I am loving using it, and the new Clear Mount Stamps are a dream to use with 2-step stampin'.  As you can see, I'm sort of stuck on purple, although there are so many shades that I can use purple for quite a while and not burn out. LOL.  So...more options for Awash with Flowers.  This time I paired it with the color combo from the Shades of Spring Designer Series Paper as well as a butterfly punched from that very paper.  What do you think?

See the post below for full details of this fabulous new stamp set:  Awash with Flowers.

Awash with Flowers stamp set

This gorgeous new stamp set is aptly named Awash with Flowers.  Don't you love the bold, fresh shapes?  I thought they would go well with my color choice that is a mix of bold, soft, and fresh for a touch of spring.  Using this stamp set is much like gardening:  you get to choose the colors and flowers YOU want.  Extra benefit--no dirt under your fingernails:)  Now, you may have a little ink on your fingers, but that is not nearly as messy as dirt!  My layout was very much inspired by one that the very talented Ilina Crouse did with this very same stamp set. 

This fabulous new 2-Step stamp set is a sneak peek into the new Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog.  The new ('10-'11) catalog will not be released until July, but we are getting this wonderful sneak peek, and you can purchase or earn this set free only during April. Contact me today to book your April workshop and be on your way to owning Awash With Flowers free of charge!  210-492-3218 or candy@sweetstamper.com.

Card recipe:

Stamps:  Awash with Flowers, All Holidays

Ink:  Basic Gray, Lovely Lilac, Almost Amethyst, Regal Rose, Old Olive Classic Stampin' Pads

Paper:  Almost Amethyst, Lovely Lilac, Whisper White card stocks

other:  Basic Gray Satin Ribbon, Basic Jumbo Grommets, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Dazzling Diamonds Glitter

Technorati Tags: stampin+up, awash+with+flowers, 2+step+stampin, 2+step+into+spring

The Sunday Post

This lovely card uses the very popular Medallion stamp as well as a scripture verse from the Refuge and Strength stamp set. Another of Daria's creations, I love the fact that the rustic feel and color combination make this card equally appropriate for men and women. Sometimes we ladies struggle to make cards appropriate for men. This one is a home run! Make a card like this and inspire the people in your life. They will be so touched that not only are you sending them God's word, but you are doing so in a way that uses your own hands and heart.

Recipe:
stamps:  Medallion, Refuge and Strength
ink:  Crushed Curry, Close to Cocoa Classic Stampin' Pads
paper:  Draft, Very Vanilla, Crushed Curry card stocks
accessories:  Distressing Tool from the Cutter Kit, Hemp Twine, Spritzer Tool

Saturday Sample

Isn't this a lovely Easter bonnet?  I love the fresh, springy colors!  This card, made by the very talented Cathy Somody (we are in the same group of demonstrators), evokes all things spring with its marvelous color combo and simple layout featuring Garden from the Heart and Well Scripted stamp sets..

You can create great color combos, too!  The secret?  Look at the Designer Series Papers in the various catalogs.  This paper, the Tea Party Designer Series Paper, gives us the great color palette of Almost Amethyst, Pretty in Pink, So Saffron, Certainly Celery, and Basic Gray.  Once you have your palette, you can start "painting" your canvas.  This card is very simple and quick to put together and a wonderful way to wish your loved ones, or even co-workers and other special people, a Happy Easter.

To order any of these supplies, go to candystamps.stampinup.net.  Then just click on Products, and then Shop Now.  There is a tutorial on yesterday's post, right here on my blog, in case you need help with online ordering in my store for the very first time.  Hurry!  Easter is just around the corner, but you will receive your order quickly and be on your way to creating your own handmade, heartfelt cards and more.

Check out my new pages!

Have you noticed the new captions at the top of my blog?  Look up a bit, just under the blog banner.  You will now see the following captions:  Home, Card Classes Available, and Scrapbook Classes Available in pink letters.  (I do like pink:)   There's also a special page for those wishing to join my team of demonstrators:  the Southern Sweet Stampers.  Now you can just click on any of the captions to be on different pages but still be on my blog.  How cool is that !  I'm pretty excited about this new feature!

So why are there more pages to my blog?  So you can see what classes are available for registration at any time.  Classes on the class pages are those that you can register for right then.  Once those classes are over, they will be removed and other current classes will appear.   That way, if you miss the actual blog post about the class, you can still get all the info and register for the class without having to search through days and days of blog posts.  I hope you like this new feature!

Easter Egg Fun!

This card, one of our club projects this month, features the Eggcellent Eggs Easter Kit (117179) from the Occasions Mini Catalog. There are terrific elements in this kit for decorating real eggs or paper projects. Think outside the box, and get in on this great deal!  Use this fun kit for card-making, scrapbooking, decorating real or plastic eggs, or just turn your kids loose with it and see what they come up with!  It's a fabulous value with lots of pieces and even more options.

For just $9.95, you get:

■ White Rub-Ons (two 6"x 6" sheets)
■ Printed, die-cut egg stands (24)
■ Clear self-adhesive rhinestones (one 6" x 6" sheet)
■ Die-cut flowers, 4 sheets (one 6" x 6" sheet each of 4 colors)
■ Die-cut leaves (one 6" x 6" sheet)

To order your Eggcellent Eggs Kit(s), click here! These kits are available only as supplies last, so hurry!

Shopping in Your Jammies aka Online Ordering

This is the side of a box from Stampin' Up!.  To receive your box full of excitement, here is a little tutorial for quick and easy Online Ordering from my store.  I will cover ALL the details, so sit back and prepare for thorough instruction!

There is no minimum order...you can order anything you want! I do want to help you get the best deal when you order, so please keep these things in mind:

• Make sure that in the upper left of the top bar, it says Your Demonstrator: Candy Rattray. This will ensure that you get preferred pricing!
• During Sale-a-Bration (January 4th through March 31st), for every $50 of your order (before shipping & handling and tax), you'll get to pick a free item from the Sale-a-Bration catalog! The items are only available during this time, and can only be earned with your order! Get your favorites before time runs out because this is the last time you'll be able to get them!
• The shipping charge is 10% of your order or a minimum of $6.95 (shipping on the Starter Kit is FREE!). Make the best of your shipping charge & nudge those goodies up to $69.50! UPS is really quick about getting your order right to your door, but why pay $6.95 for a $25 order? Make it worth your while!

How to Order Stampin' Up! Online

Finding what you want: Once you click on candystamps.stampinup.net, click on Prodcts, then Shop Now. Use the left menu to either type in your search term or the catalog item number. Browse through your search results on the right/main section and click on the thumbnail of the item you want to see. You'll see more detail on the item and you can click on the thumbnail now to see a bigger photo.

Placing the items in your shopping bag: Once you have clicked on an item and decided you want it, choose whether you want 1 or more of the item, type that number in, then click "Add to Bag."

Special Offers and Stampin' Rewards: When you've added everything you want to your shopping bag, you'll notice at the bottom left the area that tells you about Special Offers, including whether you've qualified for current promotions, and Stampin' Rewards (Spend at least $150 and get $$ to spend on any merchandise and free hostess sets!). Make sure you click on each offer that you've qualified for to claim your rewards! The system will keep track of your hostess dollars you have left (watch the red bar at the top) and special offers, a window will pop up and tell you if you have more rewards to pick from.

Check Out: Once you've selected all of your rewards and free special offers available, click the "Check Out" button. If you're a returning customer, login to your account, and if you're a new customer (Welcome!), click "Create an Account." If you've qualified for a Stampin' Rewards free hostess level set, choose your item (or items!) on the screen that comes up. Continue to follow the on-screen instructions during checkout, using a VISA, Mastercard, or Discover, and try your best to patiently wait for the Man in Brown (UPS) to deliver your goodies to your doorstep! You can also click to view an OnlineOrdering FAQ for more information from Stampin' Up!. Your order will come directly to your doorstep. Check the contents of your package against your order receipt, and proceed to be excited about your new Stampin' Up! goodies!

If you should have any questions about your products, please contact me at 210-492-3218 or candy@sweetstamper.com. I hope you enjoy the ease and convenience of shopping online. After you do it once, it is even easier and quicker the next time.  I now do the majority of my shopping online, and I think it's fantastic!

Mini Easter Basket Tutorial

Welcome to my first-ever blog tutorial.  I am so excited!  This is a tutorial for a Mini Easter Basket.  These are so quick, easy, and inexpensive, you can make a bunch of these for teacher gifts, place settings at your Easter dinner table, party favors, you name it!

Supply list:
Designer Series Paper--I used the Patterns Pack of Designer Series Paper, Hostess Level 1 FREE ITEM!.  I used the Mellow Moss, a nice color for a spring basket.
Brads--I used Rich Regals Brads, Always Artichoke.  I love when things are truly coordinated, and Always Artichoke is the darker counterpart to Mellow Moss.  If you don't have the colored brads, use any metallic brad, or click at the bottom of this post to order your colored brads and be totally coordinated:)
Big Shot, Scallop Square Die--The Big Shot makes projects come together soooo easily.
Two-Way Glue Pen--This light, easy-to-use adhesive is great for projects using Designer Series Papers.
Bone Folder--This wonderful tool is used for scoring and creasing in this little project.
1/16" Circle Punch--You could also use a Paper Piercing Tool.  You just need to make a hole for the brads.
Chocolate--Choose your poison!

1.  Cut a single square of Designer Series Paper, using the Stampin' Up! Scallop Square Die.  Lay it on your work surface and make score lines at every 3rd scallop on both sides.  Crease all lines.

2.  Cut on the score lines on two opposite sides, just up to the first "intersection".

3.  Put some adhesive on the "flaps" and adhere them to the inside of the center, thus.  Do this on both sides, forming a little open box.

 4.  Now fill with chocolates of your choice.  This box is shown with 1 mini Reese's cup and several Kisses.  Oops!  I forgot to attach a handle!  How can you have an Easter basket with no handle?!  Right now, it's just a box.  I got a little ahead of myself:)  So take the chocolates out:(

4.  Cut a 1/2" strip from the leftovers of your Designer Series Paper.  You will need the entire 6" length from the square.  Use a small amount of adhesive to adhere it to a side of your box that has only 1 layer of Designer Series Paper.  Using a 1/16" punch, punch a hole for your brad.  Now insert your decorative brad and flatten the tails.  Do the same on the other side.

5.  NOW fill your little basket with chocolates!  I managed to squeeze in 2 mini Reese's cups and several Kisses this time.  I think this one will have to go to Nicole, my chocolate/peanut butter-loving DIL:)

6.  Well, I couldn't leave well enough alone.  I decided to add a butterfly.  Now, one of the butterflies using the Stampin' Up Beautiful Wings Embosslit would be perfect for adding a butterfly with texture and style.  But alas, I have ordered this and don't yet have it due to very high demand:(  So I reached for my Butterfly punch and a scrap of Designer Series Paper from the Tea Party set, folded up its wings, and adhered with the same Two Way Glue Pen I used throughout this project.  So tell me what you think:  butterfly or no butterfly?

Purchase any of these products by simply clicking here.  Then click on Products and Shop Now to enter my online store and enjoy!

Cute Easter Project!

To order any of the supplies for this darling project, shop 24/7 at candystamps.stampinup.net. Once you are there, go to Products and then Shop Now.

	Eggcoutrements cupcake pick
	Stamps Eggcoutrements* Spring Floral Stampin' Around wheel* Paper Bashful Blue card stock So Saffron card stock Whisper White card stock Ink Bashful Blue Classic Stampin' Pad So Saffron Classic Stampin' Pad Accessories Bashful Blue 1/4" grosgrain ribbon Linen thread Sherbet Designer buttons Stampin' Dimensionals Extra Large Fancy Flower punch* 1" Circle punch Bamboo skewers

Book of Me-March

Join us for this fun class, and scrapbook your own life! Here's this month's layout. I love the spring, fresh colors as well as the bright cheeriness! Is cheeriness a word? Well, it should be!

One of our Book of Me classmates is creating this book to give as a gift to her daughter, presently away at college, for Christmas. It will be a perfect book for her to chronicle her first year of college. She can pop in her photos, add some journalling, and have a scrapbook ready and done. What a perfect gift!

Book of Me can be a wonderful gift or a picture of your own life in 2010. It can be a picture of your life in your 20s or first year of married life--it can be what YOU make it! So come join us for a night of creative fun. Our layouts are simple enough for beginners and unique enough for veterans.

Book of Me-March (Lucky Me!)
Friday, March 19th, 6:30-8:00
$15, all supplies included
Two page 8 1/2 x 8 1/2 layout
Hands-on instruction
Lots of fun in a girls night out!
RSVP with payment by Tuesday, March 16th

The Sunday Post

Both the design and sentiment on this card would work for a host of situations. Wouldn't you just love to get this card in the mail? I think it would make your day! How about making it to send someone special? This is simple to put together but conveys that handmade, heartfelt feeling that you want to share...beautifully! This card features the Refuge and Strength stamp set, a punch, and an embossing folder and is made by Daria.

Saturday Sample

Here are more of those fabulous hearts. This is one of the swaps from a recent swap I participated in and was created by the very talented Cathy Somody.

This card uses the very versatile Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper as well as the I (heart) Hearts stamp set. I love the funkiness of this particular design and color combo in the Sweet Pea paper stack. For those of us who were alive and well in the 70s, this brings back memories! Here's the full list of supplies.

stamps: I (heart) Hearts, Teeny Tiny Wishes
ink: Chocolate Chip, Pumpkin Pie, Taken with Teal, So Saffron, Sahara Sand Classic Stampin' Pads
paper: Sweet Pea Designer Series Paper Stack; Taken with Teal, Whisper White, Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Chip card stocks
other: Word Window, Modern Label, Heart to Heart punches, Polka Dot Embossing Folder, Dotted Heart Embosslit, Big Shot, Chocolate Chip 1" Double Stitched Grosgrain Ribbon, Pumpkin Pie 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon

Go to candystamps.stampinup.net, then click on Products and Order Now, to order any of these supplies today. Check out my calendar here to jump into a class where YOU can learn to make fabulous cards like these. Anyone can do it! Start today! You will wonder why you waited:)

Help for Haiti

I wanted to update you on the fundraising effort that Stampin' Up! did on behalf of the relief efforts in Haiti. The card, at left, was made using the I (heart) Hearts stamp set.Worldwide, demonstrators sold 13,587 of the stamp sets that were set aside for Haitian relief--I (heart) Hearts. From each of those sales, Stampin′ Up! will donate $2 to the Red Cross’ American Red Cross’ Haiti Relief and Development Fund. That’s over $27,000 donated to people who desperately need your help. Now that's a company with a heart!
(card shown made by another stamper)

Date Change for Every Occasion Card Class

There has been a date change for the 2nd seating of the Every Occasion Card Class. The dates are correct in the post below, but if you received my newsletter yesterday, the date is incorrect in that publication. Please note the correct dates below!

Every Occasion Card Class

We are enjoying making boxed sets of cards and so are offering another for our March Every Occasion Class. This popular class makes sure you are ready for every occasion of life! This set of cards features the Rose Red Patterns Designer Series Papers and the With All My Love stamp set (in the Occasions Mini Catalog). This set of cards features 2 thank you cards and 2 friendship cards. As always, we will have alternate greetings available so that you can customize these to suit your card needs.

4 custom-designed cards with matching envelopes
Coordinating box-this makes a boxed set, great for giving or keeping for yourself!
All supplies included
Hands-on instruction
Beginners and veterans are welcome!
Saturday, March 13th, 9:30-11:30
Thursday, March 23rd, 6:30-8:30
$20 class fee
RSVP with payment by Wednesday, March 10th for the 13th

or Friday, March 19th for the 23rd

March Every Occasion Class

Sat., March 13th $20.75 Thurs., March 18th $20.75

Studio Workshops

What's a "Studio Workshop"? I'm so glad you asked! It's just a workshop held in my Stamping Studio!

• You are the hostess=free stuff
  
• We hold the workshop in my Stamping Studio
• You don't have to clean house!
• You simply gather some friends/family for a fun time of stamping (4-8 is the perfect number)
  
• I provide a free project for everyone to make
• You get to see some of the latest and best in crafting demonstrated
• You get to ask questions

Shown here, and in the post below from yesterday, are some of the projects from Studio Workshops held this past weekend. You can have projects like this at YOUR workshop in MY studio and earn free stamps and get a free shopping spree. One hostess recently earned a FREE Big Shot while hostessing! Contact me today to book a date for your own Studio Workshop. 210-492-3218 or candy@sweetstamper.com

Workshop Why's

I love doing Stamin' Up! workshops! Shall I tell you why? Okay, here goes!

• I get to meet new people who often become stamping friends.
• I get to teach people cool stamping tips and techniques.
• I get to see brand new people "get it" about the wonders of stamping.
• I get to see veteran stampers wowed by something new.
• I am amazed, all over again, that stamping is fun for EVERY age, gender, social status, and life stage.

I'm now booking workshops for April, May, and June. Spring workshops are a lot of fun because they give friends a chance to get together with the fresh colors and hope of spring, looking ahead as the year is unfolding. (Shown above is the Make & Take notecard, featuring the Sweet Pea Stitched Felt and Welcome Neighbor Designer Series Paper) we made at last weekend's workshops.) If you would like to do a Spring Workshop with me, call me at 210-492-3218 or email me at candy@sweetstamper.com. We will get our calendars together and book a date!