Christmas in July!

It's time to start thinking about the holidays!  In this heat?  In July?!  Yes!  Early preparation makes for stress-free holidays.  Plus, thinking about Christmas in July makes one feel a bit cooler--that's my theory, anyway:)  Join us next weekend.  I have two sessions for your convenience.  Check out photos of the other cards here. 

Make 6 custom-designed, unique cards, 2 each of 3 designs
(1 design is above, scroll down to see the 2 others for July)
$25 covers all supplies* and envelopes 
Hands-on instruction during class
Full color written instructions to take home
Two sessions each month for your convenience
Friday night, July 23rd, 6:30-8:30
Saturday morning, July 24th, 9:30-11:30
Cash, checks and credit cards accepted 

                 (paypal button below)
RSVP with payment by Wednesday, July 21st for the Friday session OR
       Thursday, July 22nd for the Saturday session

 
 

How Do I Organize My Stamps?

What is the best way to organize your stamps? 

How do I organize mine?

There are 3 basic systems for stamp organization:

1.  Alphabetically
2.  Number system
3. Category

There is not a one-size-fits-all organizational system.  You need to have a system that works for YOU.  So let's look at each system.  

Alphabetical:  This is a great system as it's quick and easy to find things.  In addition, we are used to looking for other things alphabetically.  The major drawback to this system is that you have to really know the names of your stamp sets.  If you're good with names, this is the system for you!

Number system:  For this system, you simply affix a number to your stamp sets and keep a list, sort of like a library system where each book has a number.  You can simply number your sets in the order you purchase them or make a more specific system where nature sets begin with a 1, greetings sets begin with a 2, etc.  This is a great system for the very organized people out there.  God bless you all!

Category:  For this system, you organize your stamps according to the category they are listed under in the Idea Book & Catalog.  So all the Holiday stamps go in one spot, the Occasions stamps go in another, etc.  This is the system I use, and it really helps me.  In addition to keeping my stamps straight, it helps me orient to the catalog.  Since I use my catalog a lot, not only for helping people place orders but also for my own design inspiration, I feel that I kill two birds with one stone.

Whatever stamp organization system you choose, get one going.  When you can find what you are looking for, creating hand stamped projects is much more fun.  Stamping is meant to be a time of creativity and enjoyment, not frustration.  So organize your stamps and you will be stamping stress-free!

For monthly tips, ideas, and more, subscribe to my bi-monthly newsletter.  Just go to the pink box at the top of the right sidebar on this blog.  It's easy peasy!

Designer Print Albums available once again!

The darling 6x6 Designer Print Albums, featured in the Summer Mini Catalog, are available once again at the end of the month.  These were so popular that they sold out in just weeks.  But more are being made, and the will once again be available.  I couldn't get an online photo for this post, but click on the Summer Mini Catalog button in my sidebar, download the Summer Mini, and you will see it.  At $10.95, these little albums are a steal!  But several and make mini albums for gifts.  The 6x6 album size is also fantastic for single events like a prom or a trip.  The 6x6 size is also an excellent way to BEGIN scrapbooking.  Many people are intimidated by the amount of open space in a 12x12 sheet of cardstock!  The 6x6 is extremely user-friendly.  So call me to let me know you want one or more of these albums, and I'll let you know when they have been restocked.

Have you never before scrapbooked?  Come to my Scrapbook Your Way class and get started on the most popular craft in America!  Details are here.  Or just scroll down to yesterday's post.  And then let's scrap!

Scrapbook Your Way!

It's summertime.  Are you scrapbooking?  What about trips, vacations, special celebrations?  Don't you want to showcase those photos and preserve those memories?

Come to Scrapbook Your Way!  This class meets every other month, and we do two 2-page layouts each class for a total of 4 pages.  These are photo-ready when you leave.  Simply add your own snapshots, and you have 4 lovely scrapbook pages.  Above is one of the two layouts for this month's class as we make pages ready for summery photos.  Check out the other 2-page layout here under the Scrapbook Classes Available tab at the top of this blog.


Why is this class called "Scrapbook Your Way"?  Because you can create these layouts in 8-1/2x8-1/2 or 8-1/2x11 or 12x12.  The cost is the same; simply indicate your layout size when you register for class.  You can scrapbook your way, using the size that works best for you, in a class environment where the fun and creativity freely flow!

 Friday, July 16th, 6:30-8:30
$40 covers all supplies* and hands-on instruction
RSVP with payment by Thursday, July 15th
Checks, Cash, Credit Cards Accepted (Paypal button below)
Have a fun girls night out!

 Please observe normal class protocol:  bring your own basic adhesive.

 

 

Friends Never Fade

We had a great time at two events this past week: Hostess Appreciation on Tuesday and New Catalog Open House on Saturday.  This is the Make & Take we did at both events, and I'm loving this Daffodil Delight!  It is so fresh and pretty.  It is so aptly named as it reminds me of the fields and gardens full of daffodils in England in the spring (we spent 9 years in England and enjoyed every moment). 

This is a simple Stamps, Ink, and Paper card (with a little Dazzling Diamonds for just a touch of shine).  I love how our Designer Series Papers (in this case, Greenhouse Gala) are such a great way to create a color palette for a project.  Here, I took the Pumpkin Pie, Pear Pizazz, and Daffodil Delight combination directly from the Greenhouse Gala Designer Series Paper. 

And Stampin' Up! has given us another winning combination of Greenhouse Gala Designer Series Paper and the coordinating stamp set, Friends Never Fade.  The possibilities are endless, with this great duo of products, for projects with coordination, flair, and sophistication.  Stampin' Up! makes it easy for us to look great!

To order any of the projects mentioned above, call me at 210-492-3218 or order directly online in my store:  candystamps.stampinup.net.

Inspirational Sunday Post

Today I'm sharing a sympathy card for my inspirational Sunday post.  This card features the very recently retired stamp set Close as a Memory and its previously retired, coordinating wheel, Watercolor Vine.

I love hand-stamped sympathy cards.  That may sound strange, but death happens every day and will affect each and every one of us numerous times during our own lifetimes.  During a time of someone's grief, I think a hand-stamped card is one of the most appropriate expressions of love, care, and hope that can be offered.

Whether it's for a loved one or someone you know only casually yet wish to express your heartfelt condolences, a hand-stamped card is just right.   Write a few sentences inside the card offering your deepest sympathies, and add a Bible verse.  You may have a favorite one for this purpose or one that is especially meaningful to the person receiving the card.  Psalm 23 is a favorite during times of loss, and its familiarity brings comfort while its timeless words of truth soothe a grieving soul.  The words on this card, (one of two beautiful verses in the stamp set Close as a Memory), are so true.  Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.

Almost Artisan Award

This is the last of my Artisan Award entries.  It's my 3rd scrapbook page entry and features my youngest son Alex and his wife.  They are true originals in every sense of the word, and I thought this scrapbook page did a fair job of capturing that. 

Although I created this page in March, all the colors and stamps are still current, having survived the Color Renovation. LOL  And as I've stated before, I like scrapbook pages that really highlight the photos.  That seems to me the main point of scrapbooking!  I like colors, embellishments, stamped images, and everything on a page to highlight rather than overpower the subject of the page.  I also like to use colors and images that are gender neutral or masculine when scrapping the men in my family.  When a couple is the subject as in this page, I go for the gender neutral look.  I think my Alex and Leah look sufficiently highlighted and are the stars of this page in colors and embellishments that suit them as a couple.  I hope you like it better than the judges!

Would you like to learn to scrapbook?  Or do you already scrap and would like to do so in a group environment on a regular basis?  I currently have space available in my 2nd Thursday Scrapbooking Hostess Club.  Call me at 210-492-3218 or email me at candy@sweetstamper.com for more information.

Rejoin Stampin' Up!

Have you been a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator in the past?  If so, for the month of July only, you can rejoin for just $35.  That's right!  Now, you don't get a Starter Kit for that price, but if you are a former demonstrator, you already have that.  You will get fresh business supplies, the opportunity to develop a business that suits you and sustains you, and you can join my team!  Sometimes Stampin' Up! Demonstrators come into difficulties that require their attention in such a way that they can't continue their business.  This is YOUR month to get your business back without purchasing another Starter Kit.
So how about it?  Did you start and stop?  I have a growing team of very fun, optimistic, positive, and encouraging ladies who are growing their businesses.  My daughter is part of my downline and is able to stay home with my brand new granddaughter because of her Stampin' Up! business.  Join us, the Southern Sweet Stampers.  I have downline in other states and can give you much of the same support as my San Antonio ladies through the internet and mail service.  If you are in the greater San Antonio area, my support is nearby.

If you are interested or are still just in the asking questions phase of rejoining, call me at 210-492-3218 or email me at candy@sweetstamper.com.  To take advantage of this offer, you must do so by mail.  You cannot rejoin online.  So, let me show you the way to rejoin and make this a great Stampin' Up! year for you.

New Catalog Open House

Today is the last day to rsvp for my Open House on Saturday.  Here are the deets.  I hope you can join us!

New Catalog Open House

Saturday, July 10th

3:00-7:00 Come and Go

Samples made with new catalog products

Pick up a new catalog free!

Door prize drawings

2 Make & Take stations

Snacks

Door prize tickets will be given out thus:

• 1 Ticket for being here
• 1 Ticket for every $10 in product purchases
• 5 Tickets for bringing a friend (new to me)
• 10 Tickets for booking a workshop before November
• 10 Tickets for joining a Hostess Club
• 5 Tickets for every $50 in product purchases
•   (in addition to the ones already given in $10 increments)

Although this is a free event, I must prepare for you.  RSVP to candy@sweetstamper.com today!

Almost Artisan Award

I'm going to finish showing the rest of my Almost Artisan Award entries this week.  Here is the last of the 5 cards I entered.  It's a remake of a card I had done previously in completely different colors for spring.  You can see that card here.  Which one do you like best?  I like them both as they are both such different looks.  It's amazing how just changing the colors in a design can alter the look so completely.  Although the Dusty Durango color in this card is retired, it would look lovely in our new Cajun Craze.  And the stamp sets featured, Fifth Avenue Floral and Leaf Lines, are still current and featured in our brand new Idea Book and Catalog.

Would you like to make cards like this?  Come to one of my classes, and I'll teach you how!  Check out the "Classes Available" tab at the top of my blog to see current classes today and every day.

Free Projects and More!

Are you a subscriber to my monthly newsletter?  If not, you are missing out!  My July newsletter goes out today with 4 free projects, new classes news, a tool tip, answers to your questions, and more.  Sign up today, or any day this week, and you will get this treasure trove of relevant stamping news and information delivered to your inbox absolutely free.  Just go to your right and use the pink sign up box.  Sign up today!

Almost Artisan Award

Today I'm sharing another Almost Artisan Award entry.  I made a lot of projects for this contest!  It seems I have shared them all and then find another to share with you:).  Again, there were 10 projects in all, submitted for Stampin' Up! annual Artisan Awards.  I didn't win:(  But I enjoyed making the projects and have enjoyed sharing them with you.

This is the second of my two 3D entries.  It's about the size of a love note (3x3), but when you open it up, it houses a lip balm.  In this case, I used an Avon Moisture Therapy lip balm, all prettied up with some Designer Series Paper.  These make inexpensive gifts that say, "I think you are special."

Once again, I used that lovely combination of Crushed Curry (recently retired) with Very Vanilla and Basic Black.  This is actually a remake of a very similar project I ran as a gift class right before Christmas. 

Check out my full calendar of events here.  I run a number of different classes each month, and I hope you will find one that fits your schedule so you can join me.  Call me at 210-492-3218 or email me at candy@sweetstamper.com.  I would love to stamp with you!

Happy 4th of July!

This is my normal  inspirational Sunday post.  You may ask why I don't have a typical inspirational project in my post.  But today is a doubly special Sunday since it's the Lord's Day as well as our national Independence Day.  Since God is the author and originator of freedom, I thought that anything highlighting freedom was worthy of being placed in my inspirational spot this week. 

Stand fast therefore in the liberty with which Christ has made us free, and do not again be held with the yoke of bondage.
(Gal 5:1 MKJV)



Every person on the planet longs for freedom and liberty.  It's the way God made us to be.  On this Independence Day, Fourth of July, holiday, I'm counting my blessings of freedom and liberty.  I live in a free country where I am free to worship as I desire, free to work where I want, free to raise my family according to my values, free to disagree with my government and so much more.  So many people around the world do not enjoy these precious freedoms.  I purpose to not take these things for granted.  They cannot be purchased with money as they exceed monetary value.  In addition to national freedom, I have spiritual freedom.  Christ Jesus has set my spirit free, no longer under the hard taskmaster of sin.

Now the Lord is the Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there the heart is free.
(2Co 3:17 BBE)

All freedom is "bought" with blood.  For our nation, our brave men and women in uniform serve us sacrificially, all too often laying down their lives, quite literally, for us to maintain our precious freedoms.  For our souls, the Lord Jesus Christ shed his blood, laying down His own life, that all who desire His freedom, may freely receive it and thereby be truly free.  Free:  the way we are meant to be.

Greenhouse Gala

For my Saturday sample, I have something brand new to show you.  I am loving this new Designer Series Paper, Greenhouse Gala.  It is just gorgeous and reminds me of the lovely William Morris wallpapers that were such a part of the Arts and Crafts movement.  Here, I have paired it with our fabulous new embossing folder, Vintage Wallpaper.  There are two more really new elements to this card.  Can you spot them?  My card base is the new In Color, Pear Pizazz.  And the stamped greeting is from a great new set called Perfect Punches.  What an appropriate name!

This is one of the cards we will be making in our clubs this month.  Would you like to learn more about my clubs?  Email me at candy@sweetstamper, and you can be my guest at one of my club meetings this month.  I can't wait to stamp with you!

Because I Care

I created this card using one of the brand new Level 1 Hostess Sets, Because I Care, in the new Idea Book & Catalog.  That's right, this gorgeous stamp set is a Level 1!  (And I only used 2 of the 5 stamps.)  This card also features one of the beautiful new core colors, Marina Mist.

Would you like to make cards like this?  Book a workshop and I'll teach you how...free!  Contact me at 210-492-3218.  I'm booking late August-October workshops.  Get a date on the calendar, then sit back.  Once we get near the time of our workshop, I'll walk you through the process of getting a good group of guests and helping you earn the most free stamps and supplies possible.  You can earn the Because I Care stamp set and so much more by hostessing a workshop.  Call today!  Or email me at candy@sweetstamper.com.

New Stampin' Up! Idea Book & Catalog!

Today is the FIRST day for the new catalog!  We have loads of gorgeous new ideas, stamp sets, punches, dies, Simply Scrappin' Kits, embellishments...you get the idea:)  Would you like your own copy of the catalog?  It makes wonderful leisure time reading.  Or if you're like me with little leisure time, you can just keep it with you and steal in a peek at a few pages when you are waiting for various things...the kettle to boil, your computer to boot up, dinner to come out of the oven, etc.   

Email me at candy@sweetstamper.com , and I will get one to you FREE.  Now that's a deal!  They sell for $9.95, but I am giving them away so you can be privy to all the new lovelies:)  And if you are in the San Antonio area, save the date:  July 10th for my open house. 

Saturday, July 10th

3:00-7:00 Com and Go

Make & Take Stations

Fun Snacks

Display board full of samples from the new catty

Catalogs to take home!

RSVP by July 8th to candy@sweetstamper.com

Although this is a free event, I must plan for you!

Almost Artisan Award

Here is another of my Almost Artisan Award entries.  This card features on of our retiring colors, Mellow Moss.  All the other colors in the card remain in our core color collections. It's actually a remake of a similar card I had previously done.  You can see the original here.  When I changed the color scheme, I added just a touch of Dazzling Diamonds glitter to give a little extra softness and femininity.  The stamp set used is the very popular Vintage Vogue.  I love this very versatile set.  It's so easy to use and seems to make every card lovely, no matter how simple or fancy the design and embellishments.

Would you like to attend one of my classes or other stamping events?  Check out my calendar here.  Then email me at candy@sweetstamper.com or call me at 210-492-3218, and let's stamp!

Holy Triptych

On Sunday I promised to share a Holy Triptych card that has nothing to do with Christmas.  This lovely card was designed by my daughter Tiffany, also a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator.  I love how she took a tag image and made it into a lovely monogrammed notecard.  Again, it highlights retiring stamps, Holy Triptych, and retiring colors, Blush Blossom and Ruby Red.  (The Handsome Hunter in this card is not retiring.)  These retiring colors as well as the retiring stamp set Holy Triptych are still available for order.  But only through tomorrow!  Hurry if you want to get in on these lovelies.  After tomorrow, they are gone forever.  You may place your order directly from this blog by going to the Order button in the right sidebar.  You may also simply call me at 210-492-3218, tell me what you want, and I will place the order for you.  Easy peasy:)

Only 3 Days Left

Time is running out for purchasing retiring products!  There are only 3 days left to purchase any of the retiring stamp sets, Definitely Decorative items (25% off:), and accessories.  Hurry!  After the 30th, they will be gone forever.

To see the Last Chance Lists, click as follows:

Last Chance Stamps
Last Chance Definitely Decorative
Last Chance Accessories

When you find some items you would like, simply copy and paste those item numbers into your order.  You may place your order by clicking on the "order online" button in my sidebar which takes you directly to my 24/7 store.  You may also call me at 210-492-3218, and I'll be happy to place the order for you.  But hurry!

Inspirational Sunday Post

Welcome to my inspirational Sunday post where I post a faith-based project each and every Sunday.  Although it's nowhere near Christmas, there are so many beautiful Christmas projects that I can't squeeze them all into December!  So here's a little Christmas peace, love, and joy to brighten this June day!

I've been featuring a number of projects using retiring stamp sets and colors.  I will truly miss Sage Shadow.  Here, it clothes the angel in a soft, ethereal beauty.  The angel is one of 4 beautiful stamps in the Holy Triptych stamp set.  I have really loved using this set.  You might ask, "What is a triptych?"  A triptych is a work of art, usually a panel painting, divided into three sections.  Hence the tri in triptych.  Often the middle section is larger and is flanked by two smaller sections of the same size.  The Holy Triptych stamp set has 3 images that can be used to make a lovely 3-panel card with the angel, pictured above, the nativity, and the wise men.  Here's a photo of the 4 stamps in the Holy Triptych set.  You can easily make a Z-fold card, giving you three panels for these three lovely images. 

Triptychs are a form of Christian art and were popular from the Middle Ages onward.  They were most frequently used as altar paintings.  The three panels offered an excellent way of depicting entire scenes in progression.  The triptych was also easier to transport than other large paintings since it is three panels, held together with hinges.  The works of art were not only beautiful, but served to tell Bible stories visually to an often illiterate population.

The fourth image in the Holy Triptych stamp set is a tag that can be used in a number of ways.  I will show you a card later this week that my daughter designed (Tiffany is also a Stampin' Up! demonstrator.  Check out her blog , ladybugstamps.com here.) and that we made in our clubs this month.  It's totally non-Christmas and beautifully showcases the versatility of the Holy Triptych stamp set.

Bloomin' Beautiful

As promised, I'm featuring more samples with this favorite, retiring stamp set, Bloomin' Beautiful.  So for my Saturday Sample, I'm showing a favorite retiring stamp set, Bloomin' Beautiful and retiring color, Crushed Curry.  Here, I've taken the poppy image from Bloomin' Beautiful, tripled it, and set it on a blanket of Crushed Curry. When Crushed Curry was first introduced as an In Color this year, it took me a while to warm up to it.  But I absolutely love it when it is paired with Basic Black and Very Vanilla.  This is a color combo that my daughter Tiffany (also a Stampin' Up demonstrator) came up with.  I think the color combination shows class and elegance every time it's used...and I've used it numerous times. 

To purchase any of the supplies for your stamping, stop by my 24/7 store at candystamps.stampinup.net.  You don't even have to fight traffic:)

Playing with the new colors

We are in the midst of the color renovation, and there are lots of new colors coming your way.  While you are awaiting their full release (July 1st--I can't wait!), you might like to play with them online.  I've installed a new button in my sidebar, to your right, labeled My Create Ink Color Lab.  When you click on it, you will be in a sort of color lab where you can create concoctions to your heart's content.  This is a mess-free way to play with the new colors, free of charge.  I thought you would really enjoy this!  I hope you do:)

My Love

When owning your own business, you should love what you do.  After all, if I am going to put time and effort into something I actually own, I should really love it.  That love carries me through the tough days (which come to everyone:).  So what do I love about my stamping business?  I'm so glad you asked! 

Here is the first thing I love about my business:  I love stamping and crafting!  This is my passion.  I love getting my fingers inky, I love creating amazing things with paper, I love making things that people ooh and aah over, I love making unique, one-of-a-kind projects, I love the feeling of pride and accomplishment in a finished project...okay you get the picture.  I love making projects!  My favorite projects are cards.  But I also really enjoy the cute little packages and boxes, the scrapbook pages that make my favorite photos extra special, and the newest part of my stamping business--fabric projects with the Big Shot.  Because this is my passion and I love making all these things, I love leading others into this passion.  Whether in a class, workshop, or public event setting, I watch with wonder as others catch the "creative bug" of stamping.  After all, when I am able to "pass on" my love of stamping, that creative passion keeps growing.

Do you love to stamp?  That might be an initial indicator that owning your own stamping business is the ticket for you.  Through the end of this month, you can do that for just $99 with the Mini Starter Kit.  For more information about the Mini Starter Kit, click here.  And call me at 210-492-3218 to find out still more.

My Favorite Retiring Stamp Set

I ran a survey on Monday asking a number of questions regarding the Last Chance List.  One of the questions is, "What is your favorite retiring stamp set?"  I thought I would share my favorite with you.  It's the set Bloomin' Beautiful.  I love each and every image in the set.  I'm using it on several projects this month.  Here is one of the cards we are making in my Techniques Class this month, and it uses 3 of the 5 stamps in the set.

This card also features the Leaf Lines stamp set.  It has numerous sets of leaves that work together with lots of other images.  Of course, you can also let the leaves fly solo.  Here, they were combined with images from Bloomin' Beautiful to make a lovely garden.

What is your favorite retiring stamp set?  Check out my survey and let your voice be heard!  I'd love to know what YOU will miss.

I'll be showing more projects using this favorite set between now and the end of the month, so stay tuned.

Flirty, frilly, girly AND powerful!

This is another of my Almost Artisan Awards entries, this time in the 3D category.  I endeavored to bring together two seemingly opposing worlds that actually harmonize quite beautifully.   What are those worlds?  The very feminine, flirty, frilly, girly, pretty world and the world of challenge, significance, vision and big dreams.  Don't you think these two worlds operate together in a lovely way?  Whoever said that pretty can't be competent and powerful?

I love these little pillowboxes.  They come together in a snap with the Big Shot die cutting machine and take only a very small amount of adhesive to hold together. So you make a very pretty little package for just pennies.  This pillowbox can then be filled with all manner of goodies from lipgloss to candies to business cards to jewelry.  I'm sure you can think of other things to put inside, too! 

With lovely, handmade packaging like this, all our little somethings become extra special.  And if we have something of greater value and significance to give, why would we give it in anything other than extraordinary packaging?  So, inexpensive or valuable, common or rare, all our gifts take on a greater beauty with lovely packaging!  Contact me at candy@sweetstamper.com to learn more about pretty packaging for your gifts.

Last Chance List

Sunday Inspirational Post

For my inspirational post today, I'm sharing a children's version of my Beatitudes bookmark.  These are simple to make but so cute and so special.  You can tell this was not made by a factory.  It was made by my hands, warmed by my heart.  You can make these, too.  They are quick and easy.  The Beatitudes bookmark would make a great little gift for a Sunday School class, AWANA group, or other children's group.  If you would like the file for the Beatitudes bookmark (they are already formatted for a bookmark, 6 to a page), simply email me at candy@sweetstamper.com, and I will be happy to send that to you.  Here I have used Cameo Coral and Glorious Green, two of our retiring colors, that make a bright combination for children's projects.

Help the children in your life to hide God's word in their hearts by giving them a bookmark with God's word.  This little bunny will hop into a book to keep a child's place while giving him/her a chunk of scripture at the same time.  For a more mature version of this same bookmark, click here.  It was in my May 30th post.  Scripture is good for us at any age!

Almost Artisan Awards

For my Saturday Sample, I'm sharing another of my Artisan Awards entries.  This is one of the larger, 5 1/4 x 5 1/4 cards and uses the Emboss Resist technique.  It features Bermuda Bay, one of our retiring colors as well as True Friend, one of our retiring stamp sets.

To order any of these supplies or others, simply click here and you will be in my 24/7 store, candystamps.stampinup.net.  Feel free to call me at 210-492-3218 if you have any questions at all.

Spin and Twirl

Spinning and twirling.  These are just some of the exciting activities at my upcoming Techniques Card Class.  Are we dancing in class?  No!  This is what the cards are doing!  We are making fun, interactive cards this month.

This is our Suspension Card, and the apple twirls as you open and close the card.  How fun is that?!  You will enjoy learning this technique that you can use on other cards you make at home.

The bee card below is a Spinner Card, and the bee spins through the garden as you tip the card back and forth.  This is another fun technique that adds interest and uniqueness to your handstamped creations. Won't you join us?

Tuesday, June 29th

6:30-8:30

4 deluxe cards with matching envelopes

Hands-on instruction

Fun to create, fun to give cards!

Paypal (button below), cash or check accepted

$25.00 covers all supplies

RSVP with payment by Sunday, June 27th

Almost Artisan Awards

This is another of my Almost Artisan Awards entries.  Although it was entered in the Artisan Awards Contest along with 9 other projects, I did not win:(

This is a fairly simple scrapbook page, 8-1/2 x 11.  Maybe it was too simple for a contest entry.  This is a photo of my youngest son and two friends.  As they are all young and a little bit funky, that is the look I tried to achieve.  I love adding some stitching to my paper projects, although I have just begun to do this.  I think it adds great textural interest.  In this scrap page, I wanted the stitching to be a bit irregular and untidy.  That's why I left some of the threads long rather than trimming them as I would normally do.

I love using the Jumble Alphabet in scrapbooking.  It can take on so many different looks because of the varying styles, sizes, and shapes of the letters.  Another bonus when using the Jumble Alphabet is that you don't really need to line up the letters and get them all straight.  Because of the mixed styles and sizes, they just look good whether they are straight or not.  For me, that is a real bonus:)

Flip Book

Tomorrow is the last day to sign up for the Flip Book Class.  I have to order supplies for each person, and that is the last day I can do so and get them in time for the class.  This is a photo of the flip book, open to some of its many flaps and fun pages.  This darling book is all ready to write some fun notes, details, and remembrances on the flaps, and the larger pages (6x6) are ready for photos.  A sweet little detail of this class is the addition of the fun atmosphere and food at Sugarbakers Cafe & Bakery.  It's one of the newest, sweetest places around at the Quarry Village, a new section of shops right behind the Quarry Market.  Click here for a map to Sugarbakers. Won't you join us for this fun class?  Click here to get full details, and don't forget that tomorrow is the LAST DAY TO SIGN UP!  Full details and more photos are here.

Thursday, June 24th, 2:30-4:30 @ Sugarbakers
All supplies included plus a Sugarbakers cookie and cofee/tea
Friday, June 25th, 6:30-8:30 @ Stamping Studio
All supplies included plus a Sugarbakers cookie and coffee/tea

Almost Artisan Awards

This is another of my Almost Artisan Awards entries.  I entered this card in the Artisan Awards Contest and didn't win.  It features two of our retiring colors, Dusty Durango and Blush Blossom.  I wanted the simple beauty of the lily to really take center stage and shine in this design.  I've actually done this same card in another color combination and featured it in April.  Check it out here.  What do you think?  Is it better as shone here in Dusty Durango and Blush Blossom or as it is in a previous post in Pretty in Pink and Barely Banana with a touch of Melon Mambo?  I honestly like them both and hope you do, too!

Newsletter News

Are you a subscriber to my newsletter?  If so, you receive free projects, tips, informative, substantive articles, up-to-the minute news of specials, classes, and more.  My newsletter comes out around the 1st of each month with a shorter update around the 15th.  My mid-month update is going out tomorrow.  Sign up in the little sign-up box to the right, and you will receive this newsletter absolutely free.

Inspirational Post

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
(1Th 5:18 KJV)
People often wonder what the will of God is for their lives.  One thing is very plain, simple, and spelled out in black and white.  Give thanks!  This is not just a holiday exercise in the fall of each year.  This is to be a way of life!  Give a card like this to encourage someone in your life to give thanks.  And then thank the person you are giving the card to for being a blessing in your life.  Giving thanks to God and giving thanks to others:  a winning combination!

This inspirational post is a weekly feature, posting each Sunday.  It highlights inspirational cards and projects and seeks to bring a little inspiration to you and your world.



For further information about this card, simply email me at candy@sweetstamper.com for full details.

Almost Artisan Awards

For my Saturday Sample, I'm showing one of the 3D items I entered in the Artisan Awards Contest.  Since I didn't win:(, this is my Almost Artisan Awards entry:)  This little pillowbox is frilly and flirty, and I love it!  When you give something packaged up like this, it makes anything inside seem extra special!

Supplies:
Stamps:  Very Vintage Jumbo Wheel, Happy Grad
Ink:  Pretty in Pink, Basic Black Classic Stampin' Pads
Paper:  Whisper White, Pretty in Pink, Basic Black card stocks
Accessories:  Big Shot Die Cutting Machine, Pillowbox Die, Pretty in Pink Satin Ribbon, Black Gingham Ribbon, Pretty in Pink Corduroy Buttons, Fleurettes II

Click here to order any of these supplies, or call me at 210-492-3218.

Mini Scrapbook Class

Back by popular demand, it's the Flip Book!  It's a mini scrap book (6x6).  This is sometimes called a Flip Flop Book because it flips and flops as it opens.  Or you can call it the flip book because it flips open and then more and more panels are revealed the more you flip it open.  You can also call it a flip book because people flip when they see what a cute book you have made!  Okay, that's a bit corny. LOL.  But this is a darling book, it's fun to make, and people love looking at them.  They really, really love receiving them as gifts.  The one shown here is going to my husband's niece who is pregnant and due very soon.  This will make a fun book for photos and fun bits and pieces from the new baby or one to showcase all three girls.

Won't you join us for this fun class?  We have 2 sessions for your convenience, one during the week in the day, and another on a Friday night.  Either time, it's a fun girls day/night out.  The daytime session is at Sugarbakers Cafe & Bakery, a really cute and fun new place in the Quarry Village.  The evening session is in my Studio.  But both sessions include a Sugarbakers cookie and coffee or tea, all supplies for the flip book, full instructions, and lots of fun.  You can see the book opened to its various pages and panels by clicking here.  Just scroll down past the paypal button. Of course, it's best seen in person!  Come by my Studio for a look!  Just call 210-492-3218, and we will arrange a time.

Flip Book Class-mini scrapbook

Thursday, June 24th, 2:30-4:30 at Sugarbakers Cafe & Bakery 

OR

Friday, June 25th, 6:30-8:30 at The Stamping Studio

$40 covers all supplies, hands-on instruction, Sugarbakers cookie and coffee or tea, and written instructions

    so you can reproduce these darling books

RSVP with payment by Thursday, June 17th so I can order your supplies.

You may use the paypal button below or cash or check.

Flip Book class

Thurs, 6/24 @ 2:30 $40.00 Fri., 6/25 @ 6:30 $40.00

Mini Starter Kit

Don't forget!  I'm having a meeting this Saturday morning, 10:00-11:15 a.m. to talk about the business of stamping.  Come learn what it's like to stamp while earning money.  It's lots of fun!  There is a Mini Starter Kit available, through June 30th only, that is just $99 ($124.90 worth of products as well as all the business supplies you need to get started.) Click here to see the flyer with all the details of the Mini Starter Kit promotion. Pictured at left are just a few of the items in the kit.  They are all sneak peek items from the new Idea Book and Catalog!  When you sign up now, you receive a box of the current Idea Book and Catalog PLUS a box of the new ones in July as part of your kit.  So what are you waiting for?!  Come see me on Saturday and let's talk about the business of stamping! 

Artisan Award Entries

As promised, here is another of my submissions for the 2010 Artisan Awards.  As some have called these entries, they are the Almost Artisan Awards entries. LOL

This card features one of my absolute favorite stamp sets, Awash With Flowers.  Using this stamp set is like a combination of painting a picture and planting a garden--all while staying cool in the air conditioning with no mud!  One of the purples in this card, Only Orchid, is another retiring color that I will be sad to say "Goodbye" to.  I like the way the various elements came together in this card to bring an elegant, feminine, classy card:  a little shine, a little glitz, a mixture of straight and round edges, and soft colors all applied with restraint and care.

Supplies:
Stamps:  All Holidays, Awash With Flowers
Ink:  Rich Razzleberry, Only Orchid, Certainly Celery, Old Olive, Regal Rose, Pretty in Pink, Basic Black Classic Stampin' Pads, Whisper White Craft Stampin' Pad
Paper:  Certainly Celery, Only Orchid Whisper White, Regal Rose, Basic Gray Card Stocks
Accessories:  Big Shot, Beautiful Wings Embosslit, Eggcellent Eggs Kit (rhinestones on butterfly bodies), Basic Jumbo Grommets, Certainly Celery Satin Ribbon, Embossing Buddy, Silver Embossing Powder, Heat Tool, Two Way Glue Pen, Dazzling Diamonds, Scallop Trim Border Punch

Artisan Award Entries

I submitted some of my work for Stampin' Up!'s Artisan Awards this year.  I didn't win:(  But I greatly enjoyed making all the projects, so I will be sharing them with you this week and next.  We had to submit 5 cards, 2 3-D items, and 3 scrapbook pages thus showing a wide range of our creative work as our Artisan Award Entries.  I had thought about entering the contest since January but didn't actually make a decision until the last week.  Story of my life!  LOL. So I was working like a madwoman, trying to make the deadline.  I do like to work under pressure--it's that adrenaline rush that works wonders for me:)

Anyway, here is my first piece to show you.  It's my daughter Tiffany shortly after she said "I do" to my wonderful son-in-law.  (Sorry for the bit of glare on the actual photo.  It's not like that in real life:)  I chose a very soft palette for this black and white photo.  I really like my photos to be the star of the page.  Although this is a bridal photo, it's actually a shot taken at the reception, rather off-the-cuff.  But it turned out lovely.  I added elements from the Pretties Kit--which is very appropriate for wedding scrapbooks--and used mostly neutrals with a little Blush Blossom.  It's one of my favorite retiring colors!  (It will still be available in pen form--yay!  But no more card stock.)

I used Emboss Resist as a border piece on this scrapbook page.  Emboss Resist is one of my favorite techniques.  Here I sponged it with Going Gray, Sahara Sand, and Blush Blossom, and it took on a sort of marble look.  Again, that's very appropriate for scrap pages of a bride.  You may also notice that I kept the journaling to a minimum.  I usually do.  Although I am very verbose in person (!!!), I usually keep my journaling concise on scrap pages.  That's just me.  I don't know if you can tell in the photo, but the Modern Label Punch piece is our Brushed Silver Card Stock.  It added just the right amount of shine without being too flashy.

Here's a pic of the Emboss Resist border before it was attached to the scrapbook page.  You can better see the detail here.

Supplies:
Stamps:  Very Vintage Jumbo Wheel
Ink:  Whisper White Craft Stampin' Pad, Blush Blossom, Sahara Sand, Basic Gray Classic Stampin' Pads
Paper:  Going Gray Textured Card Stock, Basic Gray, Blush Blossom, Basic Black, Whisper White, Brushed Silver Card Stocks
Accessories:  Pretties Kit, Modern Label and Word Window Punches, Big Shot, Timeless Type Junior Alphabet Dies

Retiring True Friend

This is another one of our club cards this month.  (One of the clubs meets tomorrow night.  Email me at candy@sweetstamper.com to be my guest.)  This simple layout is lovely in its simplicity.  You see my fingers in the photo, holding the card together because the card front has the scallop trim border all along the bottom with a bit of Mellow Moss peeking through from the inside of the card.  Simple elegance.

This features the retiring stamp set True Friend as well as retiring colors Almost Amethyst, Mellow Moss, and Lovely Lilac.  The retiring colored card stock is running out fast, so if you want some of these Soft Subtle colors, hurry!  Once they are gone, they are truly gone forever.  Click on candystamps.stampinup.net and go to Shop Now for simple, online shopping.  Ring me at 210-492-3218 with any questions you may have.  I would love to talk stamping with you!

Count Your Blessings!

I love the message on this card! Our blessings really do brighten when we count them.  One of my all-time favorite films is White Christmas.  In the film, Betty Haynes (Rosemary Clooney) is having trouble sleeping.  She goes to the kitchen where she encounters Bob Wallace (Bing Crosby).  They are becoming rather sweet on each other, and Bob wants to help alleviate Betty's concerns and soothe her troubled heart.  He starts singing a lovely song, "Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep."  Although this was sung in 1954, the lyrics are just as relevant today:

When I'm worried and I can't sleep
I count my blessings instead of sheep
And I fall asleep counting my blessings
When my bankroll is getting small
I think of when I had none at all
And I fall asleep counting my blessings

I think about a nursery and I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them as they slumber in their beds
If you're worried and you can't sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you'll fall asleep counting your blessings

Whether you can't sleep, find yourself in a difficult season of life, or just need a lift, try counting your blessings.  However small they may seem, they will truly brighten when you count them!  Count your blessings!

The card above is made with a mix of retiring colors and new core collection colors, retiring stamps and remaining current stamps.  If you would like further information about the above card, simple email me at candy@sweetstamper.com.

Best Wishes & More!

For my Saturday Sample, here is another lovely card made with the retiring Best Wishes & More stamp set.  I have really enjoyed this versatile set.  This is a 3x3 love note made by my daughter.  The Crushed Curry yellow is also retiring.  I love how she paired it with Basic Black and Very Vanilla for a very elegant yet light-hearted look.  Elegant doesn't mean stuffy!  Best Wishes & More can go from whimsical to funky to elegant.  Now, that's versatility!  Scroll down a few posts to see this same flower in Cameo Coral for a very different look.

To purchase the Best Wishes & More stamp set or any other stamps and supplies, just click here on my 24/7 store, candystamps.stampinup.net.
It's easier than going to the big box craft stores any day!

Love What You Do!

Do you love what you do?  It's a great feeling to wake up each day, excited about work:)  This is what it's like to be a stamping business owner.  When you become a stamping business owner, you can make the business fit YOUR schedule instead of having to slot into someone else's.  That means I can start small and then grow according to my time availability and desire.  When I first became a stamping business owner, I was working full time and in the midst of planning my only daughter's wedding!  I didn't have much free time at all.  But I was looking ahead and knew that I wanted to quit my job without quitting the paycheck.  I held my first workshop and classes at my kitchen table.  As my business grew and my youngest got married, I was able to commandeer his old room and turn it into a Stamping Studio.  But if my kids were still young, I would still be working at the kitchen table (which works just fine) and have a different storage system.  I tend to take over whatever space I have available to me, large or small!

How about you?  Have you considered becoming a stamping business owner?  I'm having a little get-together to talk about what it's like, and I would love for you to join me.  We (my daughter, who is also a stamping business owner and staying home with her baby as a result) are going to share our experience as well as information about the great rewards available as a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator.  Won't you join us?  The details are here.  For details about the new Mini Starter Kit and some of the many benefits of being a stamping business owner, click here.

Best Wishes and More!

This is one of our club cards this month and features all retiring colors, stamps, and rub-ons. These make a winning combination!  You can purchase any or all of these items (the list of items used on this card  is below it) by going to my 24/7 store:  candy@stampinup.net  .  Email me at candy@sweetstamper.com to hear more about my clubs.  This month, we are celebrating the retired list with extra projects!  Would you like to be my guest?

Stamps:  Best Wishes and More
Ink:  Cameo Coral
Paper:  Cameo Coral, Blush Blossom, Bermuda Bay, Whisper White Card Stocks, Patterns Pack III Designer Series Paper
Accessories:  Bermuda Bay Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon, Kraft Corduroy Buttons, Chit Chat Rub Ons, Scallop Edge Punch

Moss Meets Gingko

One of the retiring colors I will really miss is Mellow Moss.  Here I've created a simple card with clean lines for a no-fuss thank you note.  I always need thank you notes!  I make a stack and think I'm good for a while and then they are gone in a flash.  I find that when I have plenty on hand, I use them liberally, writing notes of thanks for lots of little somethings in addition to the regular occasions for thank yous.

This simple card uses just 2 inks and 2 card stock colors and comes together in no time at all.  Email me at candy@sweetstamper.com (or just click the "Email Me" button in my sidebar to your right) or call 210-492-3218 to ask about free lessons for you and your friends/family.  I will come and show YOU how to make quick, easy, yet classy cards like this thank you card.  Make it hand-made so that it's extra special!

Enquiring Minds Want to Know!

What do those inquiring minds want to know?  What's on the Stampin' Up! Retiring List, of course!  Here it is, straight from the Home Office.   You will want to click and print each one!

Last Chance Stamps, click here.
Last Chance Definitely Decorative, click here.
Last Chance Accessories, click here.

Please note that all Last Chance (retiring) Definitely Decorative items are 25% off.  Some of the Last Chance Accessories List items are 25-50% off, only while supplies list.  Stamp sets are listed alphabetically in a convenient form, kitted out with checkboxes to make your shopping super easy!
 


To purchase any of these items which are only available through June 30, click here. If you would like to be my guest at one of my clubs this month where you can make purchases like this AND earn free stuff, email me at candy@sweetstamper.com.