Simply Stamped

Fillable Frames Revisited

2012-02-01T04:00:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! Thanks for joining me today, for the February Papertrey Ink Senior DT challenge. This time around we bring you the Fillable Frames collection! There are a total of 12 sets and I've chosen to focus on Fillable Frames #7. Our challenge for today is to use our chosen frame in two different ways. Check it out...

First up, I've created a strong focal point using the Fillable Frames #7 frame and die cut. I stamped the frame in Aqua Mist, then a sentiment (from the Fillable Frames #6 set) in True Black and a flower (from the Rosie Posie set) in Clay Canyon.I then trimmed and die an opening, using the Mega Mat Stack 4 die, from a white cardstock block. Attached a block of pattern paper (from the Basic Grey Sweet Threads collection) to a white card base and then layered the die cut block on top, using dimensional adhesive. Wrapped with ribbon and attached the frame to the center of the opening, using dimensional adhesive.Next up, I paired the Fillable Frames #7 image with other Fillable Frames sets to create a fun pattern for this single layer card. Used a color combo of Aqua Mist, Canyon Clay and Raspberry Fizz. Then stamped a birthday greeting (from the Fillable frames #6 set) in True Black. Keeping with the birthday theme, I finished the card off by wrapping the ribbon around as if I was wrapping a present.

Well, that's it from me today. Now be sure to visit the other Papertrey Ink Senior Design Team girls for more Fillable Frames goodness...

Thanks for stopping by today!

Maile

Make A Wish:

Stamps: Rosie Posie, Fillable Frames #6 & #7
Ink: Aqua Mist, Canyon Clay & True Black
Cardstock: White
Pattern Paper: Sweet Threads 6x6 Paper Pad
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon, Fillable Frames #7 Die, Mega Mat Stack 4 Die & Dimensional Adhesive

Time To Celebrate:

Stamps: Fillable Frames #1, #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #8, #10, #11 & #12
Ink: True Black, Aqua Mist, Canyon Clay & Raspberry Fizz
Cardstock: White
Accessories: Fresh Snow Twill Ribbon

Paper Crafts Card Creations 9

2012-01-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

Hello all! As I mentioned in my last blog post, I'm catching up on sharing my published creations and doing so by starting with older cards that hold a special spot in my heart. Being a clean and simple kind of girl, vintage creations are not an easy task for me to accomplish. So this card is near and dear to my heart because I feel that this was a successful attempt at capturing that vintage feel. This one was published in Paper Crafts Card Creations 9...I started by stamping a Rustic White cardstock panel with Make Your Own cling stamp in Dark Chocolate. Then colored the dresses in with Copic Markers (V91, Y21 & Y32). Stamped a journaling circle in Vintage Touch Chai and a sentiment in Dark Chocolate, both are from the Journaling Circle stamp set. Then attached the panel, with dimensional adhesive, to a Fine Linen card base.Here's How: To make the yellow strip appear to wrap around the card... I started by die cutting a Fillable Frames #9 tag and trimmed a small cardstock strip to the same width, both from Harvest Gold cardstock. Attached the die cut tag to the left side of the Make Your Own stamped panel, with dimensional adhesive, and the small strip was tucked under and attached to the right side. Here's A Note: The houndstooth stamp I used is no longer available, but Background Basics: Houndstooth makes the perfect alternative. Then finished the card off with a Dark Chocolate button strung with Rustic Jute Button twine.

That's it for today. Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful day!

Maile

Celebrate This Day:

Stamps: Make Your Own, Journaling Circle & Background Basics: Houndstooth
Ink: Dark Chocolate & Vintage Touch Chai
Cardstock: Fine Linen, Harvest Gold & Rustic White
Accessories: Dark Chocolate Button, Rustic Jute Button Twine, Copic Markers (V91,Y21 & Y32) & Fillable Frames #9 Die

CARDS Magazine Publication

2012-01-16T12:41:00.000-08:00

So, it's been a while since I last share any of my published projects with you. I thought it was about time I started up again. I figured I would start with a few of my favorite older creations from previous magazine publications. So, in case you missed it, here is a sympathy card from the March 2011 CARDS issue....This card features two of my all time Hero Arts stamp favorites... the Lace Background and the Dogwood. I started by stamping the Lace Background in Versamark ink onto a kraft card base. Here's A Tip: The card base was trimmed to 3 3/4" wide, to accommodate the flower extending over the edge.I then stamped the card base with the Dogwood image and sentiment in True Black. Here's A Tip: When working with wood mounted rubber stamps (such as the two used on today's card) use a stamp positioning tool, such as a Stamp-a-ma-jig, for perfect placement. Stamped the Dogwood a second time onto Rustic White cardstock, trimmed and attached. Here's A Tip: For added detail, I attached the flowers, at the centers, with a flat Glue Dot and the petals with dimensional adhesive. Then finished the card off with Fine Linen ribbon and True Black buttons.

That's all I've got for you today, I hope you enjoyed! Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

With Sympathy:

Stamps: Lace Background, Dogwood & Beyond Basics Borders (sent.)
Ink: Versamark, True Black & Vintage Touch Chai (on edges)
Cardstock: Kraft & Rustic White
Accessories: Fine Linen Twill Ribbon, Rustic Jute Button Twine, True Black Buttons, Stamp-a-ma-jig & Glue Dots

Papertrey Ink January Release Projects

2012-01-15T04:00:00.000-08:00

The Papertrey Ink January Countdown is about to come to an end and I'm here to share my final projects with you today. But, before I do, let me remind you that everything you've seen peeks of will be available for purchase through Papertrey Ink beginning 10 pm EST tonight.

Now, let me get started!...First up, the new sentiment set... Celebrations, created by Dawn McVey, which I paired with a single image from the Mat Stack 5 Collection.I started by randomly stamping a Rustic White card base with the single image from Mat Stack 5 Collection. Here's How: Stamped the image once, then turned slightly and re-stamped (without re-inking). Die cut, stamped and attached a Celebrations label to finish it off.Next, Tag-its #12 by Heather Nichols. I stamped this new tag and "hello" in True Black onto a Rustic White card base. Stamped, trimmed and attached a Tag-its #11 heart.Then stamped "hello" in a rainbow of colors and finished the card off with a rhinestone.Flower Fusion #12, by Melissa Bickford, is up next. Die cut and stamped the flower and center in Aqua Mist and Canyon Clay. Stamped a row of grass (from the Hanging Out set) and a row of "hello". Then attached a die cut XL Rickrack Border trim.Here's another sentiment set by Dawn Mcvey... Happily Ever After, paired with Lace Bouquet by Nichole Heady. Stamped the lace in a color combo of Spring Moss, Aqua Mist and Smoky Shadow.Finished the panel off with a sentiment stamped in Smoky Shadow ink and then mounted it all to a True Black card base.Lastly, I have a tri-fold card to share with you.Which pairs Lace Bouquet with Script Sentiments by Candice AguilarI stamped the lace in Smoky Shadow and colored with a couple Copic Markers (R02 & GB11).Here's How: Trim cardstock to 11" x 5 1/4". Score at 4" from the bottom edge and fold.Temporarily adhere cardstock into place on the Front & Center #2 Die and then cut. (This would work perfectly with the Front & Center #1 Die as well)Once cut, score another line at 4 1/4" from the bottom edge.Fold over the top and embellish to your hearts desire!

Well, that's all of them!

Be sure to check out the rest of the Design Teams fabulous projects as well:

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Happiest of Birthdays:

Stamps: Mat Stack 5 Collection & Celebrations
Ink: Dark Chocolate, Berry Sorbet, Raspberry Fizz and Autumn Rose
Cardstock: Rustic White & Dark Chocolate
Accessories: Dark Chocolate Buttons, Cream Twine & Celebrations Frame Die

Hello:

Stamps: Tag-its #11 & 12
Ink: True Black, Plum Pudding, Raspberry Fizz, Berry Sorbet & Sweet Blush
Cardstock: Rustic White
Accessories: Black Rhinestone

Hello with Flower:

Stamps: Flower Fusion #12, Tag-its #12 & Hanging Out
Ink: Simply Chartreuse, Spring Moss, Aqua Mist, Canyon Clay and True Black
Cardstock: Rustic White & Simply Chartreuse<
Accessories: XL Rickrack Border Die & Flower Fusion #12 Die

Much Love:

Stamps: Lace Bouquet & Happily Ever After
Ink: Spring Moss, Aqua Mist & Smoky Shadow
Cardstock: True Black & White

Just Because Tri Fold Card:

Stamps: Lace Bouquet & Script Sentiments
Ink: Smoky Shadow & True Black
Cardstock: Kraft
Accessories: Smoky Shadow Satin Ribbon, Copic Markers (R02 & BG11), Martha Stewart Scoring Board & Front & Center #2 Die

Simply Jane

2012-01-14T04:00:00.000-08:00

The final day of the Papertrey Ink Countdown is here and the Design Team has one final group post to share with you today. This time around we bring you a look at Simply Jane, designed by Nichole Heady. The phrase "simply splendid" is what comes to mind when I think of the new stamp set. It's such a beautifully designed set and that frame... it's to die for! Creating stunningly gorgeous creations is going to be a breeze when working with these images. Check out the loveliness I have to share with you today!...Even though I've kept things super simple, the Simply Jane images give my card just the right touch of beauty to keep from being too boring.Here's How: I started with the bouquet image. I love how this entire image was designed in two parts... the bouquet itself as one stamp image and then the bow as a second. This makes it easy to stamp using multiple colors. I inked the top portion of the bouquet in Canyon Clay and the bottom in Spring Moss.Stamped the bouquet onto a die cut oval. Next, I inked the bow in Aqua Mist.Then stamped it into place. Easy peasy and it looks pretty too!Stamped a sentiment (also from the Simply Jane stamp set) in True Black. Then, using Smoky Shadow ink, I stamped this gorgeous frame onto a kraft card base. Then, with dimensional adhesive, I mounted the stamped oval within.Then finished the card off with a couple Canyon Clay buttons strung with embroidery floss.

Well, that's it from me today. Be sure to see what the rest of the Papertrey Ink design team has in store for you today...

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Thank You So Much:

Stamps: Simply Jane
Ink: Smoky Shadow, Canyon Clay, Spring Moss, Aqua Mist & True Black
Cardstock: Kraft & White
Accessories: Canyon Clay Buttons, White Embroidery Floss & Limitless Layers: 2 1/4" Oval Die Collection

Mat Stack 5 Collection

2012-01-13T04:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! So glad you could join me for day 4 of the Papertrey Ink January Countdown. Today, for the 1st Design Team group post, we bring you the Mat Stack 5 Collection stamp set (available January 15th). This set comes with two "full-size" mat stacks and is packed full of additional building images. For our projects, we've put all it all to use! I've got a lot to share with you today, including both traditional and non-traditional ideas, so let me get started...First up, a traditional use for this mat stack image. I stamped the mat stack in Smoky Shadow ink onto a kraft card base. Die cut, stamped and attached a flourish from the Fancy Flourishes set. Then layered an oval (stamped with lace from the Lace Bouquet stamp set) onto a Melon Berry scalloped oval and adhered to the card base.Stamped and attached a sentiment strip (sentiments from Celebrations stamp set) using Canyon Clay and True Black inks. Then finished the card off with a couple Melon Berry buttons strung with white embroidery floss.Veering slightly from the typical use of the mat stack image, but still keeping to its traditional look, I've created a super fun and perfectly flat card. I started by stamping the mat stack image onto a white card base, in a color combo of Raspberry Fizz, Canyon Clay and Summer Sunrise.Within the mat stack opening I stamped cupcakes from the Cupcake Collection set. Finished the card of with a "Happy Birthday" sentiment from the Think Big Favorites #12 set and "Wishing you...." from the Mat Stack 5 Collection set, stamped in True Black.Thinking outside of the box... I came upon a very non-traditional use for pretty much any mat stack image. After playing around a bit, I ended up stamping and rotating the mat stack image in a rainbow of colors. What do you think?!I punched out the center with a 2" circle punch, stamped with a sentiment and wrapped with ribbon. Before mounting onto the True Black card base, I trimmed a white cardstock block, die cut a 5 and attached both directly to the card base. Then, with dimensional adhesive, I attached the mat stack stamped panel.Up next, I did some fooling around with a few of the building images to create a couple more almost perfectly flat cards (depends on if you count the embellishments). I stamped a beautiful border using two of the building images, in a color combo of Spring Moss and Canyon Clay.Finished the card off with a bit of ribbon and a sentiment from the Script Sentiments set.This last card features two other building images, this time stamped in Fresh Snow onto a Simply Chartreuse card base.Stamped a sentiment from the Happily Ever After set. Then finished the card off with a few scored lines, a bit of ribbon and a few rhinestones.

Well, that concludes my look into the wonderful Mat Stack 5 Collection stamp set. Be sure to see what the rest of the Papertrey Ink design team has in store for you today. I know I can't wait to see!...

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Celebrate:

Stamps: Mat Stack 5 Collection, Lace Bouquet, Fancy Flourishes & Celebration
Ink: Canyon Clay and Smoky Shadow
Cardstock: Kraft & White
Accessories: Melon Berry Buttons, White Embroidery Floss, Fancy Flourishes Die Collection & Limitless Layers: 2 1/4" Oval Die Collection

Happy Birthday:

Stamps: Mat Stack 5 Collection, Cupcake Collection & Think Big Favorites #12
Ink: Raspberry Fizz, Canyon Clay, Summer Sunrise & True Black
Cardstock: White

Hurray:

Stamps: Mat Stack 5 Collection & Celebrations
Ink: Hawaiian Shores, Aqua Mist, Spring Moss, Summer Sunrise, Canyon Clay, Raspberry Fizz & True Black
Cardstock: White & True Black
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon, 2" Circle Punch & By The Numbers Die Collection

With Heartfelt Thanks:

Stamps: Mat Stack 5 Collection & Script Sentiments
Ink: Spring Moss, Canyon Clay & True Black
Cardstock: White
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon

For The Happy Couple:

Stamps: Mat Stack 5 Collection & Happily Ever After
Ink: Fresh Snow & True Black
Cardstock: Simply Chartreuse
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon & Clear Rhinestones

Clean & Simple Card Making Class Starts Today!

2012-01-09T11:36:00.000-08:00

Just poping in to share something fun with you all today...

Class starts today and it's not too late to sign-up! I'm featured as the guess designer today and I love the cards that Kristina Werner and I have to share on this first day...

So, join Kristina Werner, Jennifer McGuire and special guest teacher Julie Ebersole for Clean & Simple Card Making!

In this class we aim to take the mystery out of creating a minimalist card that looks “complete,” and wow you with numerous tips and techniques for clean and simple cards! This upbeat and inspirational class will include nine fabulous guest artists (including me!), discounts to our favorite retailers, giveaways and a few surprises along the way! Clean and Simple Card Making will feature over 25 new card ideas and over 15 instructional videos. What better way to start the new year than with a wealth of new ideas to add to your card making arsenal and simplify your creations!

Class begins today and ends January 23, but class materials (videos, pdfs, etc.) will be accessible for a lifetime. Click HERE for an introduction video and more info!

Thanks for stopping by!

All Booked Up Revisited

2012-01-01T04:00:00.000-08:00

First off, let me start by wishing you all a Happy New Year!

A new year is upon us and with it comes a new Papertrey Ink Senior Design Team Challenge. To start off the new year the Design Team is taking a look at another "oldie but goodie"... All Booked Up. It's been quite some time since I last pulled this set out, but I quickly remembered how fun these round images are to work with. For today's project I've whipped up a quick card and a few coordinating bookmarks. Take a look...
Drawing inspiration from the circular image I chose to work with I stamped a white card base with random polka dots in a color combo of Hibiscus Burst, Summer Sunrise, Aqua Mist & Spring Moss.To create a strong focal point amongst the dots, I stamped the book circle and a sentiment below in True Black. Attached a True Black cardstock strip and embellished with a couple True Black buttons and twine.I then stamped four bookmarks in the same way as the card above.First, with the colorful dots. Second, with the book circle and sentiment. Then topped each with a coordinating colored ribbon, which was tied into place with white silk ribbon through a True Black button.

Well, that's it from me today. Now be sure to visit the other Papertrey Ink Senior Design Team girls for more All Booked Up goodness...

Thanks for stopping by today!

Maile

I Think Of Us As Bookends Card & Bookmarks:

Stamps: All Booked Up & Beautiful Blooms II (for Polka Dots)
Ink: Hibiscus Burst, Summer Sunrise, Aqua Mist, Summer Sunrise & True Black
Cardstock: White & True Black
Accessories: Hibiscus Burst, Summer Sunrise, Aqua Mist & Summer Sunrise Ribbons, 1/4" White Silk Ribbon, White Embroidery Floss, True Black Buttons & Bookmark Die

Color Blocking With Dies

2011-12-22T23:59:00.000-08:00

Thanks everyone for joining me today, for my first Papertrey Ink Senior Design Tip. I've got something fun to share with you today, it involves two of my current card making faves and I've been dying to share...

Dies have proven to be such versatile and trendy tools, and so... they have become a necessity in many card makers collections, making them a "hot item". Another currently trendy style, this year, has been the color blocked look. You can find this trend not only in the world of card making, but in the worlds of fashion and home decor. When you combine the two you get a trendy and unique look that's an easy addition to your own creations. Using the same techniques available to you through your dies, you can take them up another notch by die cutting color blocked shapes, focal points, borders, panels and so much more.

Let me show you what I'm talking about...

First up, a colorful color blocked Christmas tree to make the perfect thank you card for after the Christmas holiday. I started this card by trimming and stamping a white cardstock panel with a sentiment from In The Meadow, in True Black ink. Then attached the panel to a Soft Stone card base.

I then die cut the Christmas tree from cardstock colors of Aqua Mist, Summer Sunrise, Spring Moss & Hibiscus Burst. Attached the tree to the card base, touched up with glitter and embellished with a button and a ribbon bow.Let me show you how: Start with an assortment of colored cardstock strips cut to different widths.

Then attach the strips to a cardstock panel and trim the edges. Now you are left with a color blocked panel ready to be put to work.

Here's A Tip: Be sure to give the back of each strip a good covering of adhesive. Try to cover the entire piece.

There are two options available from this point...

You can either die cut a number of desired shapes from the color blocked panel. Like pictured above and below...Or die cut a single shape to create a color blocked panel for your card base, like on the card below...

Here's A Tip: When die cutting through two layers of cardstock, you may need to make a few passed through your die cutting machine to ensure a clean cut. Another option (if you can't get your machine to cut through the two cardstock layers) would be to attach the cardstock strips to a lighter weight cardstock or even to computer paper. My die cutting machine has no problem cutting through two layers of cardstock.

I started by creating a color blocked panel from cardstock colors of Smoky Shadow, Berry Sorbet and Melon Berry. I die cut a Signature Series: Butterfly from the panel, wrapped it with Smoky Shadow Twill ribbon and attached it to a white card base using dimensional adhesive.

Within the die cut opening, I stamped a Signature Greetings sentiment. Then embellished with a Smoky Shadow button and glittered around the butterfly opening.

I hope all of you have been inspired by what I've shared with you today. One things for sure... you'll be seeing more color blocking with dies from me in the future. If any of you decide to give it a try too, be sure to share your projects with me. I'd love to see!

Merry Christmas to you all! I hope you have a blessed and wonderful one!

Maile

Thank You For The Gift:

Stamps: In The Meadow
Ink: True Black
Cardstock: Soft Stone, White, Aqua Mist, Summer Sunrise, Spring Moss & Hibiscus Burst
Accessories: Hibiscus Burst Button, 1/4" White Silk Ribbon, Ranger Stickles Glitter Glue (Rock Candy) & Christmas Tree Die

Girly, You Rock:

Stamps: Signature Greetings
Ink: Gray
Cardstock: White, Smoky Shadow, Berry Sorbet & Melon Berry
Accessories: Smoky Shadow Twill Ribbon, Smoky Shadow Button, White Embroidery Floss, Ranger Stickles Glitter Glue (Rock Candy) & Signature Series: Butterfly Die

Papertrey Ink December 2011 Release Projects

2011-12-15T04:00:00.000-08:00

The Papertrey Ink December Countdown is about to come to an end and I'm here to share my final projects with you today. But, before I do, let me remind you that everything you've seen peeks of will be available for purchase through Papertrey Ink beginning 10 pm EST tonight.

Now, let me get started!...First up, Flower Fusion #11 and Happy Days.I stamped the Happy Days frame and the Flower Fusion flower and sentiment onto the card base. Die cut a strip of cardstock using the coordinating Happy Days frame die and adhered onto either side.Next, Lock & Key and Tag-its #11. Here is another use for those fun Cover Plate: Quatrefoil dies, just run it through your die cutting machine as if it was an Impression Plate. So simple!I just love this little air plane from Tremendous Treats: Valentine!Stamped the plane in gray ink and outlined the image with a few Copic Markers. I'm not so good when it comes to coloring in images, but this is an easy alternative that really looks great.What little girl doesn't want her own princess castle (from Little Princess) floating in the clouds?!Again, I used the same coloring technique as above. Then perched the castle onto white and white shimmer die cut clouds. Love it!The rest of the sentiment is embellished in the inside of the card.Here's Made of Snow Mini.Yep, it's the same coloring technique as above again. I combined this frosty friend with a heart warming sentiment from Big & Bold Holiday Wishes.This little number features a sentiment from Tag-its #11.I whipped out my Heart Border Die to create this one.Last but not lease... Tree Tops and Think Big Favorites #11. I perched a couple Love Birds into a clear embossed tree top.Framed the focal point with a die cut frame, which was created using the Mega Mat Stack #4 die, the rectangle die from the Button Card Collection and the Vineyard Impression Plate.

Well, that's all of them!

Be sure to check out the rest of the Design Teams fabulous projects as well:

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

My Sweet Friend:

Stamps: Flower Fusion #11, Happy Days & Background Basic: Retro
Ink: Gray, Simply Chartreuse, Raspberry Fizz & True Black
Cardstock: White & Soft Stone
Accessories: True Black Button, White Embroidery Floss, Flower Fusion #11 Die & Happy Days Die

Love Is The Key:

Stamps: Tag-its #11 and Lock & Key
Ink: Sweet Blush, Pure Poppy & Gray
Cardstock: White
Accessories: Sweet Blush Buttons, White Embroidery Floss & Cover Plate: Quatrefoil Die

I Love You:

Stamps: Tremendous Treats: Valentine
Ink: Gray
Cardstock: Soft Stone & White
Accessories: Copic Markers & Cloud 1 & 2 Die Collection

My Little Princess:

Stamps: Little Princess
Ink: Gray
Cardstock: Soft Stone, White & White Shimmer
Accessories: Copic Markers, Little Princess Die Collection & Cloud 1 & 2 Die Collection

Warmest:

Stamps: Made of Snow Mini and Big & Bold Holiday Wishes
Ink: Gray & True Black
Cardstock: White
Pattern Paper: 2008 Bitty Dots Basics
Accessories: 1/4 White Silk Ribbon, Copic Markers, Made of Snow Mini Die Collection & Corner Rounder

Be Mine:

Stamps: Tag-its #11
Ink: True Black
Cardstock: Rustic White & Pure Poppy
Accessories: Heart Border Die

Hugs & Kisses:

Stamps: Tree Tops, Think Big Favorites #11 & Love Birds
Ink: Pure Poppy, Chai Vintage Touch & Versamark
Cardstock: Kraft, White & Spring Moss
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon, Clear Embossing Powder, Mega Mat Stack #4 Die, Button Card Die Collection & Vineyard Impression Plate

Love & Marriage

2011-12-14T04:00:00.000-08:00

The final day of the Papertrey Ink Countdown is here and the Design Team has one final group post to share with you today. This time around we bring you a look at Love & Marriage, designed by Nichole Heady. This set offers several different ways to express love to someone you care about, create projects for a couple you know and so much more.For today's project I've created a card perfect for an engagement and I chose to work with this lovely tree image. I started by stamping "True Love" in True Black onto Spring Moss cardstock.Over the sentiment I layered the tree in Versamark ink, embossed with clear embossing powder and trimmed. Embellished the bottom edges with a die cut Filigree Border, attached to a block of True Black cardstock (with dimensional adhesive) and then adhered to a Rustic White card base. Finished the card of with a True Black button and a silk ribbon bow.For the inside I incorporated a little something special. I stamped the Love & Marriage border in Spring Moss and then layered a message (from Congrats All Ways) in True Black ink.

Well, that's it from me today. Be sure to see what the rest of the Papertrey Ink design team has in store for you today. I know I can't wait to see!...

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

True Love:

Stamps: Love & Marriage and Congrats All Ways
Ink: True Black & Versamark
Cardstock: Rustic White, True Black & Spring Moss
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon, True Black Button, Clear Embossing Powder & Filigree Border Die

Rosie Posie

2011-12-13T04:00:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone and welcome! It's day four of the Papertrey Ink Countdown, as well as group post day one. Our challenge this month was to find an inspiration photo and create cards featuring the new set Rosie Posie as both a focal point and a hand stamped background. I've got a bunch to share with you today, so let me get started...My first card was inspired by this gorgeous indoor living space (photo from here). I love the bold and clean color combo of black and white with a pop of color. Here's what I came up with...The boldly striped curtains and the damask pattern on the pillow lead to this hand stamped card base. I stamped it using two of the three background building strips included in Rosie Posie, in True Black ink onto a white card base.For a pop of color I stamped the flower stem in Spring Moss, just off of the edge of a white cardstock block. The sentiment used is from Birthday Bash Sentiments. For the flower... I die cut and stamped the base image; then stamped, trimmed and attached additional layers to give this gorgeous flower tons of dimension.I fell in love with the colors of this next inspiration photo (photo from here). Here's what I came up with...And here's my single layer card for the day. I started with a Soft Stone card base and stamped the large flower in a color combo of Summer Sunrise, Terracotta Tile and Sweet Blush. Added a sentiment (from the new Flower Fusion #11 set) stamped in Dark Chocolate and finished the card of with a scattering of brown rhinestones.Check out this gorgeous chair, it makes for perfect inspiration!Here's how it all started... Drawing inspiration from the bird and flower pattern and the yummy yellow color of the chair, I hand stamped my own pattern paper. I chose to combine a few of the flower and leaf images from Rosie Posie with butterflies from Butterfly Dreams. The dots are from Rosie Posie (large) and Polka Dot Basics (medium and small). Here's How: I basically stamped this pattern by starting and building from one corner, arranging and fitting the images closely together (but without touching each other) like a puzzle. Then filled in any gaps with the three different sized dots (starting with the largest dot).I stamped an additional pattern using one of the background patterns from Rosie Posie. Trimmed both pieces, wrapped with white embroidery floss and attached them to a white card base with dimensional adhesive.Finished it off with Harvest Gold sentiment strip (sentiment from Fillable Frames #1).My final inspiration is from Heather Bailey Online (here). I love the look of the colorful blossoms included in a lot of her fabrics. My hope for this last card was to incorporate that idea onto a paper flower in the same fashion. Here's what I came up with...I started by die cutting a Mega Mat Stack #4 from Aqua Mist cardstock. It's a bit hard to see in the photo above (you can get a much better look in the photo below), but I stamped the Aqua Mist Mat Stack with different sized leaves using Fresh Snow, Spring Moss and Simply Chartreuse inks. Stamped a sentiment (from the new Happy Day set) and attached the panel to a white card base.Here's where I tried to achieve the look of a signature Heather Bailey flower... I die cut and stamped the flower in Sweet Blush ink. Then touched the flower up with an orange and red Copic maker (using very light strokes). I think I can use a few more practice runs before I achieve the look I'm going for. Anyways, you get the idea.

Well, that's it from me. Be sure to see what the rest of the Papertrey Ink design team has in store for you today. I know I can't wait to see!...

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Happy Birthday:

Stamps: Rosie Posie & Birthday Bash Sentiments
Ink: True Black, Spring Moss & Hibiscus Burst
Cardstock: White
Accessories: Rosie Posie Die Collection

You Make My Life Blossom!:

Stamps: Rosie Posie & Flower Fusion #11
Ink: Summer Sunrise, Terricotta Tile, Sweet Blush & Dark Chocolate
Cardstock: Soft Stone
Accessories: Rhinestones

Hello:

Stamps: Rosie Posie, Butterfly Dreams & Fillable Frames #1
Ink: Summer Sunrise & True Black
Cardstock: White & Harvest Gold
Accessories: White Embroidery Floss

Happy Mother's Day:

Stamps: Rosie Posie & Happy Day
Ink: Simply Chartreuse, Spring Moss, Fresh Snow, Sweet Blush & True Black
Cardstock: White & Aqua Mist
Accessories: Red & Orange Copic Markers, Rosie Posie Die Collection & Mega Mat Stack #4

2012 Hero Arts Catalog Blog Hop

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

Hello and welcome to the 2012 Hero Arts Catalog Blog Hop. Today I'm joining friends in this blog hop to share previews of the new 2012 stamps. I've got a couple cards to share with you today, so let me get started...First up, I've used the large clock image from the new clear set, Special Time (CL579), stamped it in Raspberry Fizz, Summer Sunrise and Terracotta Tile onto a Rustic White card base. Finished the card off with a sentiment, from the same set, stamped in black. Attached a couple True Black cardstock strips and embellished with a couple buttons.Next up is a fun new clear stamp sentiment set This is Big (CL570). I love clear and large sentiment stamps, they makes perfect placement a breeze. This was the key when crating this card, I wanted the chosen sentiment to stand on its own and to take center stage by stamping it onto different parts of this color blocked card front. I carefully inked the top portion of the sentiment stamp and stamped it onto the edge of a Spring Moss card stock block. Then carefully inked the bottom portion and stamped it onto the edge of an Aqua Mist cardstock block. Both panels were then attached to a card base.For a bit of texture and detail, I heat embossed a clear cardstock panel with dots (from Life of the Party) in clear embossing powder. The clear cardstock warped a little in the process, but I liked the effect and went with it. To attach the clear cardstock to the card base... I first attached a white cardstock strip to the front of the clear cardstock panel. Then, to hide the adhesive, I attached another strip of adhesive behind the white cardstock strip and then adhered to the card base. Finished the card off with a few True Black buttons.

Done with the cards, now how about a giveaway! Hero Arts will be giving away 5 prize packages that include brand new 2012 Catalog stamps. The five winners will be randomly chose from ALL of the blog hop comments received by midnight PST on Monday, December 12, and will be announced on the Hero Arts blog shortly thereafter.

And lastly, hop along to the next fabulous designer!...

Kristina Werner

Remember, if you find a link that doesn't work, you can always hop back to the Hero Arts Blog for a list of direct links to all the blogs in the hop.

Hope you enjoy the rest of the Blog Hop! Thanks for hopping by!

Maile

Make Every Moment Count:

Stamps: Special Time (CL579)
Ink: Raspberry Fizz, Summer Sunrise, Terracotta Tile & True Black
Cardstock: Rustic White & True Black
Accessories: True Black Buttons & Cream Twine

This Is Big:

Stamps: This is Big (CL570) & Life of the Party Dots (CG598)
Ink: True Black & Versamark
Cardstock: Spring Moss, Aqua Mist, White & Clear Cardstock
Accessories: True Black Buttons & White Embroidery Floss

Vintage Ornaments Revisited

2011-11-30T20:59:00.000-08:00

I can hardly believe that December is actually here! Christmas too will be here before we know it. How many of you are ready?! Not I.

Well, for this months Papertrey Ink Senior Design Team Challenge our focus is on the fast approaching holidays by putting Vintage Ornaments and Vintage Ornaments Additions to good use. I have yet to acquire the Additions set, but today I bring to you a fun embossing idea using Vintage Ornaments... Here's a coordinating card and tag in a color combo of Soft Stone, Aqua Mist, Spring Moss and Pure Poppy.First up the card. I started with a die cut Half & Half strip, stamped it with a Vintage Ornament sentiment and attached to the card with dimensional adhesive.Check out these hand made frosted glass ornaments, created from cardstock and clear embossing powder. Here's How: I die cut the ornaments from white cardstock, stamped the icing (in Pure Poppy and Aqua Mist) and then heat embossed the solid ornament image using clear powder.Next up... the tag. I started by trimming, stamping and attaching a sentiment strip to a Soft Stone tag. Then, using the same technique as above, I stamped, embossed and attached the ornament.Next step was to attach the ribbon tab. Here's How: Thread twine through the button, then thread twine ends through the hole at the top of the tag. Flip the tag over, place the ribbon and tie securely into place with the twine ends.Here's a nice shot of the frosted glass look. I finished the tag off with a couple die cut Spring Moss holly leaves, one stamped with Background Basics: Circles and the other with Background Basics: Gingham.

Well, that's it from me today. Now be sure to visit the other Papertrey Ink Senior Design Team girls for more Vintage Ornaments goodness...

Thanks for stopping by today!

Maile

May Your Christmas Be Merry & Bright:

Stamps: Vintage Ornaments
Ink: Pure Poppy, Aqua Mist, Smoky Shadow & Versamark
Cardstock: Soft Stone, White & Spring Moss
Accessories: White Embroidery Floss, 1/4" White Silk Ribbon, Clear Embossing Powder, Half & Half Die Collection, Vintage Ornaments Die Collection & Holly Jolly Die Collection

'Tis the Season Tag:

Stamps: Vintage Ornaments, Background Basics: Circles & Background Basics: Gingham
Ink: Aqua Mist, Smoky Shadow & Versamark
Cardstock: Soft Stone, White & Spring Moss
Accessories: Soft Stone Saddle Stitch Ribbon, Pure Poppy Baker's Twine, Pure Poppy Button, Clear Embossing Powder, Tag Sale 5 Die, Vintage Ornaments Die Collection & Holly Jolly Die Collection

Papertrey Ink November 2011 Release Projects

2011-11-14T20:30:00.000-08:00

The Papertrey Ink November Countdown is about to come to an end and I'm here to share my final projects with you tonight. Let me get started!...First up, Willow. I stamped a Rustic White cardstock panel with a willow tree and a sentiment and attached to a kraft card base with dimensional adhesive. Impressed a couple Simply Chartreuse cardstock strips and attached them above and below the willow panel.Finished the card off with a button and Baker's twine.Next up, Birthday By the Numbers. Stamped the cupcake in Enchanted Evening, Sweet Blush and Orange Zest. Then stamped one of the Background Basics: Circles strips on either side of the cupcake in Sweet Blush.Stamped a sentiment, from Tag-its #10, and then finished the card off with a touch of glitter sprinkled onto the cupcake top, flame and randomly onto the background dots.How about some Tine Tags II. The stripy tags are from Tiny Tags II and the polka dot tag is from Tiny Tags I. Stamped them in Summer Sunrise, Berry Sorbet and Pure Poppy. Stamped the sentiment and then topped each tag with a bit of twine.Here's How: Pierce two hole at the top of each tag. Thread twine through the holes, as above.Thread the twine back through the top hole to create a loop.Then back to the front through the bottom hole. Thread both ends of the twine through the loop. Tighten the loop and repeat these sets through the holes of the remaining tags.Last but not lease, Tag-its #10. I created this card using the same cut out strip technique as used on the Celebrate Today and Every Day card from yesterdayHere's How: I started by stamping the circle tag in Summer Sunrise. Using my straight edge paper cutter, I cut to just outside of the tag image.Then trimmed around the tag by hand using my scissors.Stamped the remaining images, attached the tag panel to a Summer Sunrise card base and finished the card off with a Harvest Gold Button and silk ribbon.

Well, that's all of them!

Be sure to check out the rest of the Design Teams fabulous projects as well:

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Comfort In Friendship:

Stamps: Willow
Ink: Simply Chartreuse, Dark Chocolate & Vintage Touch Chai
Cardstock: Kraft, Simply Chartreuse & Rustic White
Accessories: Chocolate Baker's Twine, Dark Chocolate Vintage Button & Pacific Vineyard Impression Plate

Make A Wish:

Stamps: Birthday By the Numbers, Background Basics: Circles & Tag-its #10
Ink: Sweet Blush, Enchanted Evening & Orange Zest
Cardstock: Rustic White
Accessories: Martha Stewart Glitter

Wishing You:

Stamps: Tiny Tags I & II and Signature Series: Butterfly
Ink: Summer Sunrise, Berry Sorbet, Pure Poppy & True Black
Cardstock: Rustic White
Accessories: Cream Twine

Happy Birthday to You!:

Stamps: Tag-its #10, Background Basics: Circles & Flower Fusion #9
Ink: Versamark, Summer Sunrise, Plum Pudding, Pure Poppy, Hawaiian Shores & True Black
Cardstock: White & Summer Sunrise
Accessories: Harvest Gold Button, 1/4" White Silk Ribbon & Corner Rounder

Background Basics: Circles Day Five

2011-11-13T21:00:00.000-08:00

It's day 5 of the Papertrey Ink November Countdown and that means everything that you've been getting peeks at during this week will be available for purchase tomorrow, through Papertrey Ink!!! For this final day of the Countdown I've got a couple more projects and a stamp storage solution to share with you.

Let me get started with today's cards first...My first card features a fun cut out idea that I happened to come up with by accident. Once I stamped the dragonfly and sentiment (both from Happy Trails), my original intentions was to trim and cut away the right edge around the dragonfly (just like I had done on the Genuine Friend card I previously posted here).

But, my first cut just wasn't right, so I cut again. At this point I decided to just trim away the excess between the first and second cuts. Once trimmed, I carefully attached to a Melon Berry card base, after stamping a row of Background Basics: Circles dots. I love that this is an easy technique which adds a lot more to a card than just attaching a simple strip of cardstock or pattern paper.

Next up, a colorful creation. I pulled out the small dot background building strip and stamped a rainbow of rows onto a Rustic White card base. Die cut a Quatrefoil Cover Plate from Rustic Cream cardstock and attached to the front of the card base.Then embellished the card with a colorful butterfly. I die cut and stacked a rainbow of die cut butterflies and topped them off with a sentiment from Happy Trails.Nichole had noted on the first day of the countdown...

"PLEASE NOTE: The length of the patterned strips in this set was increased to allow for an extra wide base for easy placement and lining up per customer request. However, because of this change, Not all of the strips will fit in a CD case for storage. An index label and CD case will still be included with the set, but we do suggest finding an alternate storage method for this specific set."

The photo above gives you an idea of the sizes and how I have chosen to store them. I've crammed them into a CD case, but a more suitable option would be to store these stamps in a DVD case, which would provide plenty of room. I hope this info helps!

That's it from me today! But don't forget, tomorrow (November 15th) is the day to get your hands on Background Basics: Circles and all else from this months Countdown, at Papertrey Ink!

Now, be sure to visit Nichole Heady, Heather Nichols, Dawn McVey, Beth Silaika & Melissa Bickford for even more countdown goodness.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Celebrate Today:

Stamps: Happy Trails & Background Basics: Circles
Ink: True Black, Smoky Shadow & Versamark
Cardstock: Melon Berry & Rustic Cream

You Color My World:

Stamps: Happy Trails & Background Basics: Circles
Ink: True Black, Plum Pudding, Aqua Mist, Spring Moss, Summer Sunrise & Pure Poppy
Cardstock: Rustic White, Plum Pudding, Aqua Mist, Spring Moss, Summer Sunrise & Pure Poppy
Accessories: Cover Plate: Quatrefoil Die & Signature Series: Butterlfy Die

Stitches & Swirls

2011-11-13T20:59:00.000-08:00

Hello my friends! The Design Team and I have another Papertrey Ink group post to share with you today. This time around we bring you... Stitches & Swirls, a new set designed by Nichole that's sure to get a ton of use.

For today, I've created a duo of cards perfect for brightening a special persons day...

For this first card I chose to work with a color combo of Harvest Gold, Sweet Blush & Gray.

Started by stamping a Rustic White cardstock block with swirls in Sweet Blush and Summer Sunrise. Stamped a Think Big Favorites #10 sentiment in Smoky Shadow and then wrapped the panel with white silk ribbon. Then onto a separate Rustic White card base I attached two coordinating cardstock strips in Harvest Gold and Sweet Blush.

I then attached the stamped panel to the card base.

Once done with the first card, I couldn't stop there. This layout is perfect for quickly recreating in an assortment of different color combos. For this second card I chose to work with a color combo of Lavender Moon, Kraft and Dark Chocolate.Stamped the swirls in Lavender Moon and Vintage Touch Chai and the sentiment in Dark Chocolate.

I hope you've enjoyed today's sneak peek... Now, here are the links to the other Design Team members, you will not want to miss their wonderful creations!

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Brighter Days Card Duo:

Stamps: Swirls & Swirls and Think Big Favorites #10
Ink: Sweet Blush, Summer Sunrise, Lavender Moon, Smoky Shadow, Dark Chocolate & Vintage Touch Chai
Cardstock: Rustic White, Kraft, Sweet Blush, Harvest Gold & Lavender Moon
Accessorises: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon

Background Basic: Circles Day Four

2011-11-12T21:00:00.000-08:00

It's day four of the Papertrey Ink Countdown and my second post of the day. Be sure not to miss my first post. For today's second post I've got some more Background Basics: Circles to share with you! So let me get to it...I'll be showcasing the large dot with you today. This large dot background strips consists of three rows of dots and (just like all the other strips included in this stamp set) features an extra wide base which makes perfect placement and lining up a breeze. For this first card I started by stamping the Harvest Berries sentiment in Raspberry Fizz. Then above and below it I stamped rows of dots in gray ink. Then finished the card off with a few Simply Chartreuse ginko leaf impressions (also from Harvest Berries).Lastly, I paired Background Basics: Circles with Flower Fusion #10 and the new coordinating dies (please note that both sets and the dies will be available for purchase through Papertrey Ink beginning November 15th). Started by stamping dots along the right side of the card base, in Simply Chartreuse.Die cut the stem from Simply Chartreuse cardstock and attached with dimensional adhesive. Topped the stem with a boldy colored flower, using Raspberry Fizz & Summer Sunrise. Finished the card off with a Flower Fusion #9 sentiment.

Well, that's all I've got for today. I truly hope that you've enjoyed! I'd love to know what you think, so please share!

Now, be sure to visit Nichole Heady, Heather Nichols, Dawn McVey, Beth Silaika & Melissa Bickford for even more countdown goodness.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Remember

Stamps: Harvest Berries & Background Basics: Circles
Ink: Raspberry Fizz, Smoky Shadow & Simply Chartreuse
Cardstock: Rustic White

Happy Birthday To You!

Stamps: Background Basics: Circles, Flower Fusion #9 & #10
Ink: Simply Chartruse, Raspberry Fizz, Summer Sunrise & True Black
Cardstock: Rustic White & Simply Chartreuse
Accessories: Flower Fusion #10 Dies

Door to Door

2011-11-12T20:59:00.000-08:00

Welcome to day four of the Papertrey Ink November Countdown. Today is also the first Papertrey Ink Design Team group post day! Our assignment for today is to showcase the new, fun and versatile Door to Door stamp set, which will be available beginning November 15th through Papertrey Ink. Nichole did an amazing job designing this set! I had fun playing with it and I've got a lot to share with you today, so let me get started...Staying true to my style, first up is a super simple number with just the right amount of details to really make it shine. I started with a Soft Stone card base (I seriously can't get enough of this color these days). I then heat embossed the door, steps and sentiment with white embossing powder and outlined the images with a light gray Copic marker, to help it all stand out.One of these days I'd love to have me a gray Kraftsman house with a yellow door. Taking some inspiration from my dream house I colored the door with a yellow Copic marker. And since it's finally starting to feel like fall around here, I gave this door/entrance an autumn feel by adding a few pumpkin groupings. I die cut them from white cardstock, stamped the images in gray and colored in shades of orange and green. Then popped them up with some dimensional adhesive.Next up, a wintry scene. I started with a Soft Stone card base (of course) and heat embossed the double doors and hardware with white embossing powder. Outlined in gray and colored the doors blue. After masking off the doors I stamped the snowflakes (from Winter Penguin, also available November 15th) in Smoky Shadow ink.Topped the doors off with an gray embossed overhang, touched it up with a gray marker and embellished with some glitter to give it a snowy look.Gave the card a snowy base by attaching a strip of white cardstock, layered a die cut and glittered snow drift and finished the card off with a sentiment.

For these next two cards I took a couple of the smaller accent images, included in the Door to Door set, and used them in unexpected ways... Using the tiny banner image, I stamped it end to end and extended it across the card front.This was super simple to do: Simply stamped the first banner onto a Rustic White cardstock strip. Masked it off and stamped again. A Post It Note works perfectly for this step! Just stamp, cut out and place. I repeated these steps until I achieved the desired length and then colored.Attached the banner cardstock strip to the base of my card, topped with some Holiday Flourishes & Swirls pattern paper (available beginning November 15th), wrapped with Fine Linen ribbon, stamped with a sentiment and embellished with rhinestones.Last, but not least, is this fun window card featuring the little spring flower bunch from Door to Door. I found that the previously released set, Home Made, pairs perfectly with Door to Door! I pulled out all the window from the Home Made set, stamped the focal window in Dark Chocolate and then stamped the other windows (in Vintage Touch Chai ink) randomly along the Rustic White card base.Stamped the Home Made curtains in Aqua Mist. The flower bunch was die cut, stamped in Dark Chocolate, colored and attached with dimensional adhesive. Then finished the card of with a Door to Door sentiment.

Well, that's it from me. Be sure to see what the rest of the Papertrey Ink design team has in store for you today. I know I can't wait to see!...

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Give Thanks:

Stamps: Door to Door & Fillable Frames #7
Ink: Versamark & Gray
Cardstock: Soft Stone
Accessories: White Embossing Powder, Copic Markers (T1, Y21,YG93,YR18 & YR15) & Door to Door Accessories Die Collection

Winter Wishes:

Stamps: Door to Door, Winter Penguin & Fillable Frames #9
Ink: Versamark & Smoky Shadow
Cardstock: Soft Stone & White
Accessories: White & Gray (American Crafts Zing) Embossing Powder, Martha Stewart Glitter, Copic Markers (T1, T4 & B41) & In The Meadow Die Collection

It's A Party:

Stamps: Door to Door
Ink: Palette Noir
Cardstock: Rustic White
Pattern Paper: Holiday Flourishes & Swirls
Accessories: Fine Linen Satin Ribbon, Green Rhinestones & Copic Marker (YG93)

Thank You:

Stamps: Home Made & Door to Door
Ink: Vintage Touch Chai, Dark Chocolate & Aqua Mist
Cardstock: Rustic White
Accessories: Door to Door Accessories Die Collection & Copic Markers

Background Basics: Circles Day Three

2011-11-11T20:59:00.001-08:00

Hi all! Thanks for joining me for day three of the Papertrey Ink November Countdown. I've got a couple more Background Basic: Circles cards to share with you today...Here's a cool little number also featuring Winter Penguin. I started the card by stamping the open circle background strip in a color combo of Smoky Shadow, Spring Moss & Aqua Mist. I carefully staggered and stacked each layer on top of one another to create a unique border. What do you think?Here's a closer look. I then layered the penguin over the border, attached a True Black cardstock strip to the right edge and stamped the sentiment.This next card uses the same background strip stamped in a color combo of Berry Sorbet and Dried Marigold Rangers Distress Ink. Stamped one vertically and two horizontally, being careful to line up the intersecting areas.Finished this single layer card with a sentiment, pen and ink spots (stamped in True Black) from the Happy Trail stamp set.

Well, that's it from me today. I hope you've enjoyed another look into my new goodies for the month of November. Remember Background Basics: Circles will be available for purchase starting November 15th, at Papertrey Ink. I'd love to know what you think so far!!!

Now, for even more sneak peek goodness, be sure to visit Nichole Heady, Lisa Johnson & Danielle Flanders for a peek at Willow, Flower Fusion #10 & Favorites #10. Also, Dawn McVey, Beth Silaika & Melissa Bickford have peeks to share with you of their newest sets for the month.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Stay Cool:

Stamps: Winter Penguin & Background Basic: Circles
Ink: True Black, Smoky Shadow, Aqua Mist & Spring Moss
Cardstock: White & True Black

Just A Note:

Stamps: Background Basics: Circles & Happy Trails
Ink: True Black, Berry Sorbet & Dired Marigold Ranger Distress Ink
Cardstock: White

Background Basics: Circles Day Two

2011-11-10T20:59:00.000-08:00

Hello all! It's day 2 of the Papertrey Ink Countdown and from the looks of it, it sounds as if you all are as excited as I am about Background Basics: Circles. Well, I'm back today to share a couple more samples with you....First up, a special card for a special friend. Included in this month release are coordinating Friends 'Til the End dies. Yay! I just had to pull them out and put them to work. I began today's card by impressing the large flower die into a white cardstock block and then stamped the coordinating flower within (in Smoky Shadow). Then stamped the sentiment in True Black.Using a couple Copic Markers I touched up the flower center, then embellished the flower center with a Melon Berry button and a silk ribbon bow. Once done with the flower panel, I trimmed off the edge with my paper cutter (up to the die impressed edges) then trimmed around the flower (with scissors) following the impressed edge. Attached the panel (with dimensional adhesive) to a Soft Stone card base that had been stamped with one of the Background Basic: Circles strips in Smoky Shadow.Next up, I pulled out Autumn Acorns and paired it with Background Basic: Circles using a fun fall color combo of Dark Chocolate, Sweet Blush, Vintage Touch Chai and Wild Honey Ranger Distress Ink. To create, I started by stamping a Rustic White card base with three different background strips. Then trimmed and attached a kraft cardstock strip to the right edge.Die cut and stamped three acorns, attached to the card base at varying heights and embellished with an Harvest Gold button and silk ribbon. Finished the card off with an Autumn Acorns sentiment, perfect for this months holiday that will be here before we know it.

Well, that concludes my second look at Background Basics: Circles. I truly hope that you've enjoyed! I'd love to know what you think, so please share!

Now, be sure to visit Nichole Heady, Heather Nichols for a peek at Birthday By the Numbers, Tag its #10 & Winter Penguin. Also, Dawn McVey, Beth Silaika & Melissa Bickford have peeks to share with you of their newest sets for the month.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Genuine Friend:

Stamps: Friends 'Til the End & Background Basic: Circles
Ink: True Black & Smoky Shadow
Cardstock: Soft Stone & White
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon, Melon Berry Vintage Button, Copic Markers & Friends Til' the End Die Collection

Happy Thanksgiving:

Stamps: Autumn Acorns & Background Basic: Circles
Ink: Dark Chocolate, Sweet Blush, Vintage Touch Chai & Wild Honey Ranger Distress Ink
Cardstock: Rustic White & Kraft
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon, Harvest Gold Vintage Button & Autumn Acorns Die Collection

Introducing Background Basics: Circles

2011-11-09T20:59:00.000-08:00

Hey there! Welcome to day 1 of the Papertrey Ink November Countdown. Today I'm super excited to be sharing with you a couple samples using my new set for this month, Background Basics: Circles...

Background Basics: Circles

features 6 background strips and 6 individual images/fillers
will retail for $24
can be purchased through Papertrey Ink, beginning November 15th

Now, how about a couple samples?!...Fist up a super simple creation without a stitch of embellishment. I stamped this single background strip across the card in a color combo of Smokey Shadow, Summer Sunrise & Sweet Blush.Stamped a couple sentiments, from All About You & Additions, in True Black. Finished the card off by attaching the stamped panel to a Soft Stone card base.

Next up, another simple number but this time with a bit more dimension and embellishment. Using one of the individual images, I stamped a pattern in a color combo of Pure Poppy, Berry Sorbet and Summer Sunrise onto a masked white circle.Masked off the pattern and stamped a butterfly trail and sentiment, both from Happy Trails. Attached the circle, with dimensional adhesive, onto a Soft Stone card base. Attached a die cut and stamped butterfly (also from Happy Trails) and embellished with a Berry Sorbet button. Finished the card off with a single rounded corner.

Well, that concludes my first look at Background Basics: Circles. I truly hope that you've enjoyed! I'd love to know what you think, so please share!

Now, be sure to visit Nichole Heady and Besty Veldman for more Background Basics: Circles as well as Tiny Tags II, Erin Lincoln will bring you Mega Mehndi Medallion. Also, Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols, Beth Silaika & Melissa Bickford have peeks to share with you of their newest sets for the month.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

I Love You:

Stamps: Background Basic: Circles, All About You & All About You Additions
Ink: True Black, Smokey Shadow, Summer Sunrise & Sweet Blush
Cardstock: Soft Stone & White

Smile:

Stamps: Background Basics: Circles & Happy Trails
Ink: Berry Sorbet, Pure Poppy, Summer Sunrise Soft Stone & True Black
Cardstock: Soft Stone & White
Accessories: Berry Sorbet Button, Happy Trails Die, Limitless Layers: 2 1/2" Circle Die Collection & Corner Rounder

Sneak Peek and A Wine Bottle Tag Project

2011-11-08T21:00:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! I'm here today to share a birthday gift that I prepared for a friend a couple of weeks ago.

But before I get to that, I just wanted to share a peek of my new set for November...A new background set including different shapes and sizes of circles, solid and outlined, you can create both modern and traditional interpretations of many of the trendy patterns that are so popular now!

Now, onto today's project...
My friend just celebrated her 30th birthday with a Breakfast At Tiffany's themed birthday bash. Keeping with the theme, I created a fabulous wine bottle tag fitting for the occasion. To create I die cut two Wine Bottle Tags, one from white and another from Aqua Mist cardstock. Trimmed and attached together.Then, using the Tag Sale 5 Die, I cut tags from White and Aqua Mist cardstock. Trimmed, impressed with the Polka Dot Basics II and the Damask Designs Impression Plates and attached to the Wine Bottle Tag. Stamped a sentiment strip and attached with dimensional adhesive. Then wrapped with Fresh Snow satin ribbon and embellished with clear rhinestones.

That's all I've got for you today. I'll be back tomorrow for the Papertrey Ink November Countdown. See you then!

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Hope Your Day I Fabulous Wine Bottle Tag:

Stamps: Signature Greetings
Ink: True Black
Cardstock: White & Aqua Mist
Accessories: Fresh Snow Satin Ribbon, Clear Rhinestones, Polka Dot Basics Impression Plate, Damask Design Impression Plate, Wine Bottle Tag Die & Tag Sale 5 Die

Calandar Basics Revisited

2011-10-31T20:59:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome! Today is an exciting day for me. I've become part of the Papertrey Ink Senior Design Team and today I'm officially participating in my first Senior DT Challenge! For November's challenge, Nichole has asked us to focus on Calendar Basics stamp set and the calendar products. I've been anxiously waiting to share my projects with you. So, let's get started!...I knew right away what I wanted to create... tiny pocket calendars. Here's a shot of the calendar and a coordinating card.I'll start things off with the card... this design started with a kraft cardstock base, which I stamped with flowers from the Year of Flowers Collection and the coordinating flower months from Calendar Basics. All inked using Smoky Shadow ink. I then created a focal point using a die cut and trimmed Wine Bottle Tag. Stamped with a sentiment from Calendar Basics and violets from Year of Flowers Collection. Wrapped with Sweet Blush ribbon, embellished with a Sweet Blush button and attached to the card base.

Next up, the pocket calendar. These tiny treasures are simple to create, make great gifts and fit perfectly into a Christmas stocking. The kraft card stock base features the same botanical theme which was stamped like the card above. As far as how to assemble these tiny treasures, I'll share a little how-to below.Here's a shot of the backside, which features a bit more of that botanical theme and a stamped handmade detail (stamped using Calendar Basics). Here's How: I started with a Lunchbox Note die cut from Kraft cardstock, a Tag Sale 5 die cut from Rustic White cardstock, a button, 1/8" White Silk ribbon and Rustic Jute Button Twine.Score the tag and stitch into place with a button and ribbon. Tie a length of twine behind the button. This length of twine will be used to wrap around the pocket calendar and button to hold the calendar closed.Inside are the Mini Calendar pages, stamped with the coordinating months (in Smoky Shadow) and flowers (in Sweet Blush). The calendar pages were then carefully stapled into place inside.

Well, that's it from me today. Now be sure to visit the other Papertrey Ink Senior Design Team girls for more calendar goodness...

Thanks for stopping by today!

Maile

Pocket Calendar and Card:

Stamps: Calendar Basics & Year of Flowers Collection
Ink: Smoky Shadow and Sweet Blush
Cardstock: Kraft, Rustic White & Mini Calendar Pages
Accessories: Sweet Blush Satin Ribbon, 1/8" White Silk Ribbon, Rustic Jute Button Twine, Sweet Blush Vintage Button, Lunchbox Note Die & Tag Sale 5 Die

Papertrey Ink - October 2011 Release Projects Part 2

2011-10-24T10:43:00.000-07:00

Hello all! I'm back today to share my final projects for the October Papertrey Ink release. So, here I go...

First up, Think Big Favorites #9 and Tag-its #9 paired with the Wine Bottle Tag Die.I started by die cutting the Wine Bottle Tag from cardstock, trimmed off the top and then stamped with a sentiment and ornaments. Attached to a kraft card base with dimensional adhesive, wrapped with Fine Linen ribbon and embellished with tiny rhinestones.Next up, Christmas Poinsettia! Again I paired this set with the Wine Bottle Tag die. Die cut the large poinsettia from the trimmed tag, stamped the sentiment and attached to Soft Stone card base. Then stamped the large poinsettia within the opening.Wrapped with ribbon and embellished with a few more die cut and stamped poinsettia layers. Finished it off with a touch of glitter to the center of the poinsettias.Now, here is Star of Wonder. I started by die cutting a doily from cardstock, within the center I stamped the silhouette circle in Versamark ink and then rubbed some Perfect Pearls pigment powder (in Perfect Gold) over the image.Die cut a scalloped circle frame using a couple dies from the Limitless Layers: 1 3/4" Circle Collection and attached over the center image. Finished it off with a sentiment tag, just under the doily, created using the Tag Sale 5 die. And finally, Tremendous Treats. I borrowed this layout from one of my cards published in the latest Paper Crafts magazines. I die cut a window from the front of a kraft panel, I stamped a few of these adorable images and placed them behind each opening. Wrapped with ribbon and embellished with a True Black button.

Well, that's all of them. All supplies used are listed in the Papertrey Ink gallery. Thanks for stopping by and have a great one!

Papertrey Ink - October 2011 Release Project Part 1

2011-10-17T21:00:00.000-07:00

The Papertrey Ink October release has come to an end, and I'm here to share the rest of my release projects with you, a few today and the rest later. So, let me get started!...First up, a little gift card ensemble using one of the new stamp set by Heather Nichols... Winterberry. I die cut a Gift Card Greetings from kraft cardstock. Then die cut a Tag Sale 5 from white cardstock, stamped with the branch to resemble mistletoe and attached to the holder. Embellished with a bow from Bells & Boughs. Stamped the branch and sentiment onto the inside flap. Finished it off with "To" and "From" from Tag-it's #9.Next up, an adorable snowman tag, created using the Shape-Up Series: Snowman Die Collection and Shape Up Snowman Accessories stamp set by Nichole Heady.Die cut a frosty hat from pattern paper and Harvest Gold Felt. To turn this snowman onto a tag, I simply punched a hole at the top, strung with Baker's twine and then attached the hat.Die cut and trimmed a couple In The Meadow snow drifts, attached to the base and then embellished with a bit of Stickles glitter glue. Finished it off with a "To" and "From".Next, Nativity Silhouettes by Tiffany Pastor. I stamped a row of silhouettes, in Vintage Touch Chia and Dark Chocolate ink, along the base of a Rustic Cream card front.Then embossed the rays with clear embossing powder for added emphasis.Now, for some Flower Fusion #9 by Melissa Bickford. Stamped the flower in Berry Sorbet and Spring Moss onto a Rustic White card base. Created a frame for the flower by first die cutting a Mega Mat Stack 3 from pattern paper and then die cut the center out using the Sending You die. Topped it all off with a Photo Finish Strip and buttons.And finally for today, Faith & Hope by Beth Silaika. Stamped the ribbon and sentiment onto the center of a white card base.

Die cut a Tag Sale 5 from the center of a cardstock block, stamped with the branch image in Versamark ink and then brushed over with Perfect Pearls pigment powder for a bit of added shimmer. Just a note, this technique would also look great embossed with clear embossing powder.

That's all from me today. All supplies used are listed in the Papertrey Ink gallery. Thanks for stopping by and have a great one!

Maile

Wine Bottle Tag Die Day 5

2011-10-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

Yay! Today is the final day of the Papertrey Ink October Countdown! Which means tomorrow is release day (or technically tonight at midnight!). So, everything you've been seeing peeks of will be available at Papertrey Ink.

I do have one final peek for you today, using the Wine Bottle Tag die...Just a couple simple projects for today, showing you just how perfectly the Wine Bottle Tag fits over a bottle of water. These decorated bottles of water are perfect for parties or events of all sorts... baby showers, wedding showers, boy or girl birthdays, themed parties, Halloween or harvest parties, fundraisers and so on. For my first water bottle sample of the day I've chosen to work with a boy birthday party theme. To save time when creating a large number of these cuties, I've chosen to keep the design super simple. Simply started by die cutting the frog and lily pad from Spring Moss and Simply Chartreuse cardstock. Stamped the outlined images in True Black, layered polka dots over the frog and then attached both to a die cut white Wine Bottle Tag.I alternated the two green colors on my tags to keep things interesting. Finished it off with a stamped bug and sentiment.While the Faith & Hope stamp set was still out on my workspace, I quickly whipped up an idea perfect for October, Breast Cancer Awareness month. If any of you are aware of or are hosting a fundraising event for this month, here's a quick and presentable idea.Simply started by die cutting a Wine Bottle Tag from white cardstock, stamped the pink ribbon, a gray sentiment and then wrapped with Fresh Snow ribbon. Super simple and easy to mass produce.

Well that's all I've got for today, but I do hope that you have enjoyed all that I have shared with you this week, during the Papertrey Ink Countdown. So what's the plan?! What are you most excited about picking up this month? What are your favorites from the entire October release? I'd love to know!

Don't forget to check out what the rest of the Papertrey Ink gals have been up to. Be sure to visit Nichole Heady, Heather Nichols, Dawn McVey, Tiffany Pastor, Beth Silaika& Melissa Bickford for more countdown goodness.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Frog Tags:

Stamps: Boy Basics: Frog Hop & Polka Dot Basics II
Ink: True Black
Cardstock: White, Spring Moss & Simply Chartreuse
Accessories: Frog Hop Die & Wine Bottle Tag Die

Courage Tag:

Stamps: Faith & Hope
Ink: Sweet Blush & Smoky Shadow
Cardstock: White
Accessories: Fresh Snow Satin Ribbon & Wine Bottle Tag Die

2011 Holiday Tags

2011-10-13T20:59:00.000-07:00

It's the final day of the Papertrey Ink October Countdown, which also means that today is the second Design Team Group Post day too. Our assignment this time around is to create a tag and card, using a combination of the 2011 Holiday Tags stamp set with the Wonderful Word: Holiday stamp set and dies.

Here's what I came up with...Using the same images and dies, I was able to create a coordinating card and wine tag set.It all started with this layout. The joy tag circle (from 2011 Holiday Tags) stamped in Aqua Mist onto a white cardstock base. Then I added "& Love" and "Be With You" (from Wonderful Words: Holiday stamp set) stamped in True Black. Die cut an attached "Peace" to finish off the phrase and then embellished with a ribbon bow.Utilizing the same design I created a tag, using the Tag Sale 5 die which I attached to a die cut Soft Stone Wine Bottle Tag.Finished the tag off with a die cut bow (from Bells & Boughs), a Harvest Gold button and some white twine.Before I finish, I wanted to share with you how this same design can easily be adapted into a regular gift tag as well. Just attach a length of twine or ribbon through the top of the tag before adhering the die cut Bells & Boughs bow.

Now, I know you what to see more! So, be sure to stop by and see what the rest of the team has come up with for you today...

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Peace, Joy & Love Tag & Card:

Stamps: 2011 Holiday Tags, Wonderful Words: Holiday & Bells & Boughs
Ink: Aqua mist, Summer Sunrise & True Black
Cardstock: White, Soft Stone & Harvest Gold
Accessories: 1/8" White Silk Ribbon, White Embroidery Floss, Harvest Gold Button, Wonderful Words: Holiday Die Collection, Tag Sale 5 Die & Wine Bottle Tag Die

Wine Bottle Tag & Tag Sale 5 Dies Day 4

2011-10-12T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hello all! I've got some more die goodness for you this day. Today is day four of the Papertrey Ink October Countdown and that means there's one more day until the release (October 15th) when both the Wine Bottle Tag and Tag Sale 5 dies can be purchased!

Also, just wanted to let you know that this is my second post for today. So be sure to scroll down, for the next post, so you don't miss a thing.

Here's what I've got for you today...For today's first project, I've created a gift card holder using the Wine Bottle Tag die. It looks stunning hung from a bottle or...even from a gift bag. Just tie this embellished gift card holder onto the handle, with a length of pretty ribbon, to dress up any simple gift bag or box.

Here's how...Started by die cutting two Wine Bottle Tags from Soft Stone cardstock. Trimmed the top off of one and then stamped with a few Pure Poppy poinsettias (from Bells & Boughs) and a couple flourishes in Smoky Shadow (from Holiday Photo Finishers). Attached a strip of Scor-Tape to the other tag, this will adhere the two tags together and help hold the gift card in place.With the gift card now in place, I then took a die cut Photo Finish Strip and attached it to the front.Wrapped the strip ends around to the backside and adhered, using more Scor-Tape. This step securely holds the gift card into place.Then finished it all off with a few black rhinestones.Lastly, are a couple folded gift tags, created using the Tag Sale 5 die.

Here's how...I cut and folded a small card from Soft Stone cardstock, temporarily attached it to the Tag Sale 5 die and then ran both through my die cutting machine.This is the little blank canvas that comes out, all ready to be dressed up.I punched a 1/8' hole in the top corner and strung with Baker's twine. Embellished one with two Aqua Mist bells and a pretty Pure Poppy bow.The other with a Pure Poppy poinsettia and an Aqua Mist bow (all from Bells and Boughs).

Well, that's it from me today. I hope you've enjoyed another look into my new goodies for the month of October. Remember the Wine Bottle Tag and Tag Sale 5 Dies will be available for purchase starting October 15th, at Papertrey Ink. I'd love to know what you think so far!!!

Now, be sure to visit Nichole Heady, Heather Nichols, Dawn McVey, Tiffany Pastor, Beth Silaika& Melissa Bickford for more countdown goodness.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Joy To You Gift Card Holder:

Stamps: Bells & Boughs and Holiday Photo Finishers
Ink: Pure Poppy, Smoky Shadow & True Black
Cardstock: Soft Stone & White
Accessories: Black Rhinestones, Photo Finish Strips Die Collection & Wine Bottle Tag Die

Mini Tag Duo:

Stamps: Bells & Boughs and Holiday Photo Finishers
Ink: Pure Poppy, Aqua Mist & True Black
Cardstock: Soft Stone & White
Accessories: Baker's Twine, Red Rhinestones, 1/8" Hole Punch, Photo Finish Strips Die Collection, Bells & Boughs Die Collection & Tag Sale 5 Die

In the Meadow...

2011-10-12T20:59:00.000-07:00

Today is day 4 of the Papertrey Ink October Countdown and also the first design team group post day. Today the design team will be sharing with you... In the Meadow. This gorgeous set is full of traditional and timeless images, there also happens to be an assortment of coordinating dies that I'm sure your going to love.

Here's what I've come up with...A little wintry scene that's got me longing for some snow.Today's card started with a card base of Rustic White cardstock. I stamped the card base with this fabulous tree in Simply Chartreuse and a sentiment in Dark Chocolate. Die cut and trimmed to fit two Rustic Cream snowdrifts. Die cut another snowdrift from Aqua Mist, picked a good placement into the corner of the card front, traced the corner with a pencil and trimmed.I then embellished the snow drift tops with a touch of glitter. Just traced the edge with a glue pen and dipped the wet glue into a pile of crystal glitter. Once dry I attached them to the card base at different heights.Using the glue pen again, I topped the branches of the tree with more crystal glitter. Then finished the card off with a couple die cut deer. I love how the Aqua Mist edge gives this card the look of a frosty riverbed, perfect for a deer to take a sip of.

Well, that's it from me today. Be sure to see what the rest of the Papertrey Ink design team has in store for you today. I know I can't wait to see!...

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Good Tidings:

Stamps: In the Meadow
Ink: Dark Chocolate & Simply Chartreuse
Cardstock: Rustic White & Aqua Mist
Accessories: Glue Pen, Martha Stewart Crystal Glitter, In the Meadow & In the Meadow Silhouettes Die Collections

Wine Bottle Tag & Tag Sale 5 Dies Day 3

2011-10-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

Hey there! Glad you could join me for day 3 of the Papertrey Ink October Countdown! For today I've got more Wine Bottle Tag and Tag Sale 5 die goodness to share with you. In case you were wondering, both of these dies will be available for purchase at Papertrey Ink beginning October 15th.

Now, how about a couple more ideas?...First up, I've taken a die cut Wine Bottle Tag and turned it into a fancy napkin ring. To create, I started by die cutting a Wine Bottle Tag from Rustic White cardstock. Next, I die cut a Tag Sale 5 from Autumn Rose cardstock, die cut Merry from the center, stamped the sentiment (from Wonderful Words: Holiday and it's coordinating die, both are available beginning October 15th) topped with ribbon and attached to the Wine Bottle Tag with dimensional adhesive.Embellished with die cut Ripe Avocado Holly Jolly leaves and some Liquid Pearls. Once dry, I then inserted a napkin through the tag top.For my final project of the day, I've created another Wine Bottle Tag. But this time around I've used it to top a bottle of homemade teriyaki sauce (our families treasured secret recipe). With a large opening at the top (measuring 1 3/4" in diameter) of the Wine bottle Tag, not only is it perfect for topping a bottle of wine, it also fits an assortment of bottles. So, to those of you who love to present a homemade treat in a bottle, around the holidays, this die is the prefect accessory!To create, I started by die cutting a Wine Bottle Tag from Soft Stone cardstock. Trimmed the bottom off of a die cut Ripe Avocado Tag Sale 5 and attached. Stamped a Winterberry tree (available beginning October 15th) directly onto the tag and onto Spring Moss cardstock. Colored, trimmed and attached the Spring Moss tree. Stamped a white cardstock strip with a Think Big Favorites #9 sentiment (also available beginning October 15th) and attached with dimensional adhesive. Finished the tag off with a rhinestone and some Glossy Accents.

Well, that is it from me today, but be sure to join me again tomorrow for more ideas and uses for both the Wine Bottle Tag die and the Tag Sale 5 die. I hope you've enjoyed today peek and as usual, I'd love to know what you think. So please share!

Now, be sure to visit Nichole Heady and Lisa Johnson for a peek at Nativity Silhouettes, Additions & Star of Wonder. Also, Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols, Tiffany Pastor, Beth Silaika & Melissa Bickford have peeks to share with you of their newest sets for the month.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Merry Christmas To all:

Stamps: Wonderful Words: Holiday
Ink: Fresh Snow
Cardstock: Rustic White & Autumn Rose
Accessories: Fine Linen Satin Ribbon, Cream Twine, Liquid Pearls, Holly Jolly Die Collection, Wonderful Words: Holiday Die Collection, Tag Sale 5 Die & Wine Bottle Tag Die

Peace Love Joy Tag:

Stamps: Winterberry & Think Big Favorites #9
Ink: Dark Chocolate
Cardstock: Soft Stone, White, Spring Moss & Ripe Avocado
Pattern Paper: Pacific Vineyard (for bottle wrap)
Accessories: Green Rhinestone, Green Copic Marker (YG95), Glossy Accents, Tag Sale 5 & Wine Bottle Tag Die

Introducing Tag Sale #5 Die

2011-10-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hello all and welcome to day two of the Papertrey Ink October Countdown! Yesterday I brought you the first peek at the new Wine Bottle Tag Die. Today I bring you another first peek, this time of my other die design for the month... Tag Sale 5. Both will be available for purchase at Papertrey Ink, beginning October 15th.

For today's projects I'm pairing the Wine Bottle Tag die with the Tag Sale 5 die to show you another use for the Wine Bottle Tag die...

These are door knob hangers. I've made these two for my niece and nephew to adorn their bedroom doors, but these door knob hangers can be created for many other occasions as well. How about a "Quite, Baby Sleeping" for a baby shower, "Keep Out" for a teen Birthday, or "Do Not Disturb" for a graduate headed off to college?Here's a look at the new Tag Sale 5 die, it measures 3 3/4" x 2" and it coordinates perfectly with the Wine Bottle Tag die.To create these hangers simply die cut the Wine Bottle Tag from cardstock, cut a slit through the loop at the top of the tag (click on the first picture in this blog post for a closer look), decorate and slip onto a door knob. (Please note: In yesterdays post I forgot to post the diameter of the circle at the top of the Wine Bottle Tag die, it measures 1 3/4") For my Niece's, I die cut the Wine Bottle Tag from kraft and the Tag Sale 5 from Rustic White. Die cut a Signature Series: Butterfly from the Tag Sale 5 die cut, stamped with her name (using Simple Alphabet) and flourish (using Gratitude Journal). Tied the tag with ribbon and Baker's twine and attached. Then embellished with a die cut Love Lives Here butterfly (which I embossed with Mehndi Medallion impression plate) and a button. For my Nephew's, I die cut the Wine Bottle Tag from Soft Stone cardstock and stamped with Background Basics: Houndstooth in Smoky Shadow.Die cut a Tag Sale 5 from white cardstock, stamped with a few images from Boy Basic: Rock On and his name. Die cut, stamped and attached a two toned guitar. Embellished with a tab of True Black ribbon and a button and then attached the tag.

Well, that is it from me today, but be sure to join me during the entire Papertrey Ink Countdown for more ideas and uses for these two dies. I hope you've enjoyed today peek and as usual, I'd love to know what you think. So please share!

Now, be sure to visit Nichole Heady and Erin Lincoln for a peek at Winterberry, Tag-its #9, Think Big Favorites #9, Faith & Hope & Flower Fusion #9. Also, Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols, Tiffany Pastor, Beth Silaika & Melissa Bickford have peeks to share with you of their newest sets for the month.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Door Knob Hangers:

Stamps: Simple Alphabet, Gratitud Journal, Boy Basics: Rock On & Background Basics: Houndstooth
Ink: Dark Chocolate, Summer Sunrise, Smoky Shadow, True Black & Hawaiian Shores
Cardstock: Kraft, Rustic White, Soft Stone & White
Accessories: Harvest Gold Ribbon, True Balck Satin Ribbon, Chocolate Baker's Twine, White Embroidery Floss, Harvest Gold & True Black Buttons, Signature Series: Butterfly Die, Love Lives Die Collection, Rock On Die, Wine Bottle Tag Die, Tag Sale 5 Die and Mehndi Medallion Impression Plate.

Introducing the Wine Bottle Tag Die

2011-10-09T21:45:00.000-07:00

Today is day one of the Papertrey Ink October countdown. Even though I do not have any new stamp sets to share with you, I do have a couple dies coming out this month that I'd love to share with you. Today I bring you the Wine Bottle Tag Die...This Wine Bottle Tag Die measures 2" x 7" and will be available for purchase beginning October 15th (at Papertrey Ink). It's perfect for accessorizing any bottle to create the perfect gift just in time for the holidays and festive gatherings.By using the Wine Bottle Tag I was able to package and present a little something for a gracious hostess. I started by die cutting a tag from Rustic Cream and Spring Moss cardstock. I trimmed off the bottom of the Spring Moss tag and attached it to the bottom of the Rustic Cream tag.Stamped a Rustic Cream cardstock strip with flowers from the Iconic Images (sorry, this set is not available for purchase but a few images from Garden Variety can be used instead) in Spring Moss, Berry Sorbet and Summer Sunrise. Stamped a sentiment from Gracious Vases, attached with dimensional adhesive and wrapped with white silk ribbon.

Well, that all I've got for today. I truly hope that you've enjoyed! I'd love to know what you think, so please share!

Now, be sure to visit Nichole Heady and Besty Veldman for a peek at Shape Up Snowman Accessories and Tremendous Treats: Christmas. Also, Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols, Tiffany Pastor, Beth Silaika & Melissa Bickford have peeks to share with you of their newest sets for the month.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Thanks For Your Graciousness Tag:

Stamps: Iconic Images & Gracious Vases
Ink: Spring Moss, Berry Sorbet, Summer Sunrise & Dark Chocolate
Cardstock: Rustic White & Spring Moss
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon & Wine Bottle Tag Die

12 Days Of Christmas Blog Hop Winner

2011-10-06T14:44:00.000-07:00

It time to announce the winner of a copy of Holiday Cards & More Vol. 6...

Dawn
said...
I'm loving these CAS cards Mailes. This one is stunningly
beautiful

September 30, 2011 6:03 PM

A huge congrats to Dawn and a heartfelt thanks to all who left me such kind work, I truly enjoyed hearing from you all!

Maile

Paper Crafts Magazine Presents: 12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop

2011-09-30T03:00:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome to the Paper Crafts 12 Days of Christmas Blog Hop! Today, 12 of the most-published designers of today's special issue, Holiday Cards & More Vol. 6, are bring you some quick 'n easy holiday cards. First off, check out this seasons issue.... Goodness, this cover is gorgeous! I don't know about you, but I find creating for the holiday season, in the middle of the year, quite a challenge. This time around, when creating my magazine submission, I tried to challenge myself a little more and created an assortment of non-card projects. Turns out to have been a good call, because 5 of my non-card projects (along with a few cards too) were picked up for this issue. I still have yet to receive my own Holiday Cards & More Vol. 6 issues, but I am anxiously awaiting a peek!

Now, how about a single layer quick 'n easy card, perfect for mass producing in no time... I started with a Rustic White card base. Stamped the sentiment, from Stylish Sentiments: Holiday, in True Black ink. Layered a few small and large poinsettias, from Bells & Boughs, in Spring Moss ink. Then stamped flourishes, from Holiday Photo Finishers, into the corners using Ripe Avocado ink.Finished the card off with a few black rhinestones. And that's it!

The purpose of the this hop is to get 12 brand new ideas for quick & easy holiday cards. So be sure you visit all of the talented designers who have joined in on the Blog Hop fun...

I'm not done yet! Who's up for a prize?! Make sure you stop by the Paper Craft Connection blog, you can leave them a comment and be entered into their fabulous giveaway. Be sure to post your comment by 2 AM EST on Sunday, October 2nd.

Also, don't forget to leave me a comment as well. Of course, I'd love to hear from you! But I'll also be selecting a winner to receive an issue of Holiday Cards & More Vol. 6 for free! Be sure to post your comment by 2 AM EST on Sunday, October 2nd. I look forward to hearing from you!

That's it from me today! Thanks for stopping by and I hope you have a wonderful one!

Maile

Season's Greetings:

Stamps: Signature Style: Holiday, Bells & Boughs and Holiday Photo Finishers
Ink: True Black, Spring Moss & Ripe Avocado
Cardstock: Rustic White
Accessories: Black Rhinestones

Papertrey Ink - September 2011 Release Project

2011-09-15T11:17:00.000-07:00

The Papertrey Ink September Countdown has come to an end and I'm here today to share with you the rest of my projects. So, let me get started...

First up Holiday Lights by Dawn McVey. I stamped a few bent Christmas light strand at the top of a white card base.Stamped the bulbs in a color combo of Pure Poppy, Summer Sunrise, Aqua Mist, Spring Moss & Plum Pudding. Touched up a few with glossy accents to finish the card off.Next, Flower Fusion #8 by Melissa Bickford. Stamped the flowers onto a kraft card base in Fresh Snow ink and embellished with Harvest Gold Buttons.Attached, trimmed and impressed Mat Stack #5 die cut and wrapped with 1/4" white silk ribbon. Finished it off with a sentiment from the same set.Now for some Winter Cheer by Tiffany Pastor. Stamped a drift of snowflakes across the front of a kraft card base in Hawaiian Shores.Stamped a jolly sentiment and embellished with a few black rhinestones.Here's another sweet set by Dawn McVey, Candy Cane Christmas. Stamped these candy ornaments in Summer Sunrise, Berry Sorbet & Pure Poppy.Finished it off with a stylish sentiment from Stylish Sentiments: Holiday by Nichole Heady.Next up, Tag-its #8 by Heather Nichols. I paired this set with one of the new Damask Snowflake dies. Thread the snowflake with a strand of Autumn Rose twill ribbon.Stamped the snowflake center with a few snowflakes and a wintry sentiment and then attached to a kraft card base.And last but not lease Christmas Labels by Lisa Johnson. Stamped a retro sentiment label in New Leaf, Sweet Blush & Pure Poppy.

Embellished with a few fun holly leaves and berries, die cut using the new Holly Jolly dies.

That's all from me today. All supplies will be listed below soon. Thanks for stopping by and have a great one!

Maile

Bells & Boughs Day Five

2011-09-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to the final day of the Papertrey Ink Countdown. For today's project I've chosen to focus on other uses for my new Bells & Boughs set, something other than a Christmas card.First up, an invitation... I've chose to go with a bit of a rustic theme, perfect for a holiday, anniversary, birthday or wedding party.I've combined Bells & Boughs with Table Service to create a table setting focal point. Stamped a kraft Mat Stack #1 die cut with Background Basics: Houndstooth in Simply Chartreuse. Stamped a Rustic Cream card base with a few boughs in Spring Moss and a sentiment in Vintage Touch Chai ink. To keep with the rustic feel, I also inked all edges with the Vintage Touch Duo.Nichole has already shared with you, in her post yesterday, how well this set works for creating wedding cards. I have another one to share with you today too, but keep in mind that by changing out this sentiment to a "Happy Anniversary" you've also got a card design perfect for such an occasion.I started this card by stamping a couple flourishes (from Holiday Photo Finishers) in Fresh Snow ink onto a kraft card base. Stamped and cut out a couple Pure Poppy poinsettias. Die cut and stamped a Berry Sorbet bell, punched a hole at the top and tied with a silk ribbon bow. Attached all to the card base, over the flourishes, at varying heights. Finished the card off with a sentiment and a few clear rhinestones.

That's it from me today! But don't forget, tomorrow (September 15th) is the day to get your hands on my newest stamp set and coordinating die, at Papertrey Ink!

Now, for even more sneak peek goodness, be sure to visit Nichole Heady, Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols, Melissa Bickford, Lisa Johnson & Tiffany Pastor.

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

You Are Invited:

Stamps: Bells & Boughs, Table Service & Background Basics: Houndstooth
Ink: Vintage Touch Duo, Simply Chartreuse, Pure Poppy and Spring Moss
Cardstock: Rustic White & Kraft
Accessories: Red Rhinestone, Mat Stack #1 Die and Table Service Die Collection

Wedded Bliss:

Stamps: Bells & Boughs, Gracious Vases & Holiday Photo Finishers
Ink: Pure Poppy, Berry Sorbet, True Black & Fresh Snow
Cardstock: Kraft & Rustic White
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon, Clear Rhinestones, Corner Rounder, 1/8" Hole Punch and Bells & Boughs Die Collection

Holiday Photo Finishers

2011-09-13T20:59:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Today is the last day of the Papertrey Ink Countdown as well as the second Group Post day. This time around each of us, on the design team, are showcasing the set Holiday Photo Finishers, designed by Nichole Heady. Our assignment is to create two projects, one photo card and one non-photo card. Check out what I came up with...To keep things simple I started by using one of the new tri-fold cards. I embossed the front flap with one of the Photo Finish Strip Dies and stamped a coordinating sentiment in True Black.Then stamped a large and small Bells & Boughs poinsettia flower in Spring Moss.Now, onto the inside... I raised the front flap and stamped a few corner flourishes in Ripe Avocado and Spring Moss.Placed a black and white photo into the center of the tri-fold card. To add a pop of color I stamped the flourishes, in Ripe Avocado, onto the photo and the card flaps.To finished the card off I stamped a "Joy" label in True Black and a poinsettia in Spring Moss onto white cardstock, cut out and attached to the photo with dimensional adhesive.Next up, the non-photo card... I started with a Rustic Cream cardstock block, stamped flourishes into the corners using Ripe Avocado and Spring Moss inks, stamped with a sentiment and attached to a Ripe Avocado card base.Finished the card off with a few black rhinestones. It's a super simple, yet elegant design, that can easily be mass produced.

Well, that's it from me today. Be sure to see what the rest of the Papertrey Ink design team has in store for you today...

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Happy Holiday Photo Card:

Stamps: Holiday Photo Finishers and Bells & Boughs
Ink: True Black, Ripe Avocado & Spring Moss
Cardstock: White & Tri-Fold Card base
Accessories: Photo Finish Strip Dies

Peace And Joy Card:

Stamps: Holiday Photo Finishers
Ink: Ripe Avocado, Spring Moss & True Black
Cardstock: Ripe Avocado & Rustic White
Accessories: Black Rhinestones

Bells & Boughs Day Four

2011-09-12T20:59:00.000-07:00

Hello all! It's day four of the Papertrey Ink Countdown and today I'm joining up with Nichole Heady to bring you even more of my new set... Bells & Boughs (which is available beginning September 15th at Papertrey Ink!). Nichole will have all the details regarding this set and its coordinating dies, so make sure you stop by (if you haven't already).

I've got a lot to share with you today, so let me get started!...
First up, a simple single layer card that's sure to give you no problems when sending it through the mail.Up to this point I've shared with you only the solid bell images. Well, also included in this set are outlined bells. Perfect for pulling out those Copic markers or for pairing with it's solid companions, like I did on today's card. I stamped all four bells onto a white card base in a color combo of Pure Poppy, Aqua Mist, Spring Moss & Summer Sunrise.Next up, I pulled out the wreath and berry images (from Wreath for All Seasons) and paired them with the smallest bough branch from Bells & Boughs. I stamped the wreath in Dark Chocolate, the boughs in Spring Moss, the berries in Pure Poppy and a Bells & Boughs sentiment in Dark Chocolate onto a Rustic Cream cardstock block. Then attached the stamped block onto a kraft card base. Adhered a couple strips of Dark Chocolate cardstock and embellished with matching buttons.Finished the card off with a die cut and stamped Hawaiian Shores bow and matching button.Here's a super cute and super simple holiday card trio. I simply stamped the tag (from Fillable Frames Additions 2) directly onto a white card base. Within the frame I stamped a small bow and sentiment, both from Bells & Boughs. To give these tag a realistic and fun look, I pierced a hole inside the tag top and cut a slit just outside of the tag top. Then threaded white silk ribbon through the two holes (using a needle) in pretty much the same way I would have had this been a real tag. One in Spring Moss.One in Aqua Mist. I think I like this arrangement the best out of the three.And one in Pure Poppy.I pulled out the Bells & Boughs poinsettias for this last card. Stamped them in both Pure Poppy and Spring Moss and cut them out. To create leaves, I cut the Spring Moss poinsettia petals apart and attached the sections behind the Pure Poppy ones.To create this Mega Mat Stack #2, I die cut two from white cardstock. Stamped the first one with Background Basics: Houndstooth (in Smoky Shadow), trimmed the top and bottom off of the second one and then attached the two together. Once assembled, I stamped with "Merry Christmas" and "From Our Family to Yours" sentiments (both from Bells & Boughs) and attached to a Soft Stone card base. Embellished with True Black buttons, the assembled poinsettias and black rhinestones.

Well, that's it from me today. I hope you've enjoyed this detailed look into my new goodies for the month of September. Remember Bells & Boughs and its coordinating dies will all be available for purchase starting September 15th, at Papertrey Ink. I honestly can't wait to see this set in your hands and in action! But in the mean time, please let me know what you think so far. I'd love to hear!!!

Now, for even more sneak peek goodness, be sure to visit Nichole Heady, Michelle Wooderson, Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols, Melissa Bickford, Lisa Johnson & Tiffany Pastor.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Happy Holidays:

Stamps: Bells & Boughs and Think Big Favorites #8
Ink: Aqua Mist, Plum Pudding, Pure Poppy, Spring Moss, Summer Sunrise & True Black
Cardstock: White
Accessories: Corner Rounder

Deck The Halls:

Stamps: Wreath For All Seasons and Bells & Boughs
Ink: Dark Chocolate, Spring Moss, Pure Poppy & Hawaiian Shores
Cardstock: Kraft, Rustic White & Dark Chocolate
Accessories: Dark Chocolate & Hawaiian Shores Buttons, Dark Chocolate Baker's Twine and Bells & Boughs Die Collection

Greetings Of The Season Card Trio:

Stamps: Fillable Frames Additions 2 and Bells & Boughs
Ink: Spring Moss, Aqua Mist, Pure Poppy & True Black
Cardstock: White
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon & Rhinestones

From Our Family To Yours:

Stamps: Background Basics: Houndstooth and Bells & Boughs
Ink: Pure Poppy, Spring Moss, Smoky Shadow & True Black
Cardstock: Soft Stone & White
Accessories: True Black Buttons, White Embroidery Floss, Black Rhinestones & Mega Mat Stack #2 Die

Bells & Boughs Day Three

2011-09-12T09:00:00.000-07:00

***A little update for you, in regards to my previous post: Thanks to all, for your prayers, thoughts, comments and concerns. We are safe, our home and all other homes in this area are safe as well. The fire is still burning and is currently 30% contained. Thanks to the fire fighters for working so hard and doing an amazing job at keeping the fires at bay. Between an air plane crash and crazy thunder storms, they've been dealing with numerous fires around our town for well over a week now. I hope they can get a break soon.***

Anyways, back to business... It's day three of the Papertrey Ink Countdown and I've got a couple more Bells & Boughs cards to share with you today...I'll start things off with a simple one today.I simply stamped a white card base with a large Pure Poppy poinsettia and a sentiment. Die cut and stamped a Summer Sunrise bell. Stamped and hand cut a small Berry Sorbet poinsettia. Then attached both to the card base, at varying heights, and embellished with black rhinestones.This next one features a trio of hanging bells in the colors of Summer Sunrise, Aqua Mist & Plum Pudding.Started by stamping a bunching of bough branches in Spring Moss and Ripe Avocado. Over this I stamped the berries in Pure Poppy and a sentiment in True Black.Arranged and attached the bells with dimensional adhesive. Then adhered a Pure Poppy die cut bow into place with an added layer of dimensional adhesive to give it a bit more height.

Well, that's it from me today. I hope you've enjoyed another look into my new goodies for the month of September. Remember Bells & Boughs and the coordinating die collection will be available for purchase starting September 15th, at Papertrey Ink. I'd love to know what you think so far!!!

Now, for even more sneak peek goodness, be sure to visit Nichole Heady , Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols, Melissa Bickford, Lisa Johnson & Tiffany Pastor.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Peace Love Joy:

Stamps: Bells & Boughs
Ink: Summer Sunrise, Pure Poppy, Berry Sorbet and True Black
Cardstock: White
Accessoires: Black Rhinestones & Bells & Boughs Die Collection

Merry Christmas:

Stamps: Bells & Boughs
Ink: Spring Moss, Ripe Avocado, Pure Poppy, Summer Sunrise, Aqua Mist, Plum Pudding & True Black
Cardstock: Rustic White
Accessories: Bells & Boughs Die Collection

Love Lives Here for the Holidays

2011-09-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

***Please note: My second post of the day will be delayed. Due to a nearby fire, an evacuation has been recomended for our location. I've just finished this blog post and I'll have the other post, along with an update, up as soon as possible.***

Hello all! Welcome to Day 3 of the Papertrey Ink Countdown and this months first Papertrey Ink Design Team group post. In preparation for the Christmas holidays, Nichole has asked the Design Team to create a holiday treat or treat package & a card using the new Love Lives Here: Holiday stamp set. Love Lives Here: Holiday is a sweet homespun Christmas set created by Nichole Heady from a concept by Melissa Phillips. Here's my homespun treat!...I chose to work with the adorably sweet angel for this sweet treat and card.It all started with a new to me Christmas color combo of Soft Stone, White, Aqua Mist, Pure Poppy and Spring Moss. Which I am loving! I love how the gray adds such a softness to the whole project.To start, I created a hand stamped strip using the bough image. I inked it up in Spring Moss and stamped a bough row. Then inked the heart trio in Pure Poppy and stamped along the bough row for a nice pop of color. Once complete, I attached it to a Soft Stone card base.

Die cut and stamped the angel in Aqua Mist and Smoky Shadow. Stamped a Pure Poppy heart along the hem of the dress, attached die cut Shimmer White wings and adhered to the card base with dimensional adhesive. Into the angels hands I attached a die cut bow (from Bells & Boughs) and a hand cut heart. Finished it of with a heartfelt sentiment.

Next up a coordinating treat box full of hugs and kisses. Like I did on the card above, I hand stamped a bough row along a card stock strip and then wrapped it around a Nugget Tin.

Wrapped the box with white silk ribbon, topped it off with another sweet angel and finished it of with a heartfelt sentiment that perfectly fits what's inside.

I truly enjoyed creating today's project and I hope you enjoyed it too! That's it from me, but for even more Love Lives Here: Holiday goodness, be sure to see what the rest of the Design Team has been up to...

Thanks for stopping by, have a great one!

Maile

Christmas Lives in the Heart Card:

Stamps: Love Lives Here: Holiday and Bells & Boughs
Ink: Smoky Shadow, Aqua Mist, Pure Poppy & Spring Moss
Cardstock: Soft Stone, White & White Shimmer
Accessories: Love Lives Here: Holiday and Bells & Boughs Die Collections

Holiday Hugs Treat Tin:

Stamps: Love Lives Here: Holiday and Bells & Boughs
Ink: Smoky Shadow, Aqua Mist, Pure Poppy & Spring Moss
Cardstock: White & White Shimmer
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon, Nugget Tin, Love Lives Here: Holiday & Bells & Boughs Die Collections

Bells & Boughs Day Two

2011-09-10T20:59:00.000-07:00

Hello all! It's day two of the Papertrey Ink Countdown. I hope you all are enjoying everything so far! Well, I'm back today to share some more of my latest stamp sets... Bells & Boughs. This time around I'm keeping things some what simple...First up, a card perfect for mass producing. I started by stamping a white card base with a Plum Pudding small bell and an Aqua Mist large bell. Then stamped the sentiment, I love this sentiment! I knew when creating this set I wanted a font combination that would fit a simple and modern design as well as an elegant design. I've been very happy with the end result! This sentiment, in particular, fits the modernly designed Christmas cards perfectly, with it's simple text and varying sizes to keep things interesting.Finished the card of with a couple strands of white embroidery floss. Here's How: I've pierced a hole above the bells and at the fold of the card, threaded through the holes with twine and tied ends together inside the card. Die cut and stamped a Summer Sunrise bow, attached and embellished with a Harvest Gold button.This next card is a bit more involved but still simple to recreate. I've chosen to go with a wintry color combo of white (and lots of it), Spring Moss, Aqua Mist and Smokey Shadow. This shot gives you an idea of how I started the card and how the bough branches work. There are two outlined branches and one solid, all slightly differ in size. After die cutting my embellishment pieces (flower, bell, bow and frame) I figured out the arrangement which then gave me an idea of where to stamp my boughs.The frame was die cut using the Mat Stack #4 and Fillable Frames #7 dies, then impressed with the Vineyard Impression Plate and attached. The bell was stamped in Smoky Shadow ink onto White Shimmer card stock, which gives it a gorgeous silvery shine. Love it! Attached the bell, bow and poinsettia, embellished with rhinestones and called it done.

Well, that concludes my second look at Bells & Bough and the coordinating dies. I truly hope that you've enjoyed! I'd love to know what you think, so please share!

Now, be sure to visit Nichole Heady, Heather Nichols and Jessica Witty for a peek at Tag It's #8, Think Big Favorites #8 & Flower Fusion #8. Also, Dawn McVey, Lisa Johnson, Tiffany Pastor & Melissa Bickford have peeks to share with you of their newest sets for the month.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Peace, Love & Joy:

Stamps: Bells & Boughs
Ink: Aqua Mist, Plum Pudding, Summer Sunrise & True Black
Cardstock: White
Accessories: White Embroidery Floss, Harvest Gold Button and Bells & Boughs Die Collection

'Tis The Season:

Stamps: Bells & Boughs
Ink: Spring Moss, Smoky Shadow, Simply Chartreuse, Aqua Mist & True Black
Cardstock: White & White Shimmer
Accessories: Clear Rhinestones, Mat Stack #4 Die, Fillable Frames #7 Die, Bells & Bough Die Collection & Vineyard Impression Plate

Bells & Boughs Day One

2011-09-09T20:59:00.000-07:00

Welcome friends to the first day of the September Papertrey Ink Countdown! Today I'm super excited to be sharing with you a couple samples using my new set for this month, Bells & Boughs...

Bells & Boughs:

features 17 images and 11 sentiments
will retail for $24
can be purchased through Papertrey Ink, beginning September 15th
has a coordinating set of dies

How about a couple samples?...This card features a number of the images included in the set. I began this card by stamping a few rows of music notes, from Background Basics: Sheet Music, in Chia Vintage Touch ink. Stamped the three bough branches, in Spring Moss and Simply Chartreuse, and then layered a few Pure Poppy berries.

Die cut and stamped the large bell, small bell and a bow in Summer Sunrise and Plum Pudding. Arranged and attached to the card base at different hights. Embellished the bow with a Dark Chocolate button.Finished the card of with a couple Bells & Boughs setiments, "Merry Christmas" "& Happy New Year", in Dark Chocolate. This next card features additional images, two poinsettia flowers and one of the other bows. I started this card by die cutting a frame, using the Mega Mat Stack #1 and Layerz Mat Stack #1 dies, from Spring Moss cardstock. Stamped with the three bough branches in Spring Moss & Simply Chartreuse and berries in Pure Poppy. Attached to the card base with dimensional adhesive and stamped the sentiment (from the new Think Big Favorites #8 also available Sept. 15th) with in the frame.Stamped, hand cut the large and small poinsettia flowers and attached together. Die cut, stamped and attached the bow behind the poinsettias. Embellished with rhinestones and then adhered to the card base.

Well, that concludes my first look at Bells & Bough and the coordinating dies. I truly hope that you've enjoyed! I'd love to know what you think, so please share!

Now, be sure to visit Nichole Heady and Besty Veldman for a peek at Holiday Lights & Stylish Sentiments, Danielle Flanders will bring you Candy Cane Christmas. Also, Dawn McVey, Lisa Johnson, Heather Nichols, Tiffany Pastor & Melissa Bickford have peeks to share with you of their newest sets for the month.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year:

Stamps: Bells & Boughs & Background Basic: Sheet Music
Ink: Chia Vintage Touch, Spring Moss, Simply Chartreuse, Pure Poppy, Summer Sunrise, Plum Pudding & Dark Chocolate
Cardstock: Kraft & Rustic White
Accessories: Dark Chocolate Button, Rustic Jute Button Twine & Bells & Boughs Die Collection

'Tis The Season:

Stamp: Bells & Boughs & Think Big Favorites #8
Ink: Spring Moss, Simply Chartreuse, Dark Chocolate, Pure Poppy & Summer Sunrise
Cardstock: Kraft, Rustic White & Spring Moss
Accessories: Green Rhinestones, Mega Mat Stack #1 Die, Layerz Mat Stack #1 Die & Bells & Boughs Die Collection

September Sneak Peek

2011-09-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

The Papertrey Ink September countdown is quickly approaching and this months release brings you a great assortment of Christmas and Holiday goodies! My contribution to this festively filled release is Bells & Boughs. Here's a sneak peek!...With a name like Maile Belles I couldn't help but create a stamp set that included a set of bells! I'm super excited to share Bells & Boughs samples with you starting on September 10th, I hope you'll join me then!

Maile

Nuts About You

2011-08-31T17:28:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Long time no speak. I'm headed out for a camping trip today and I thought I would quickly pop in and share a card for once. Here is a card I created during the last Papertrey Ink Countdown, although I never had a chance to post it during the countdown. So, I'll share it with you now...

Here's a fun assortment of colorful acorns from the new Autumn Acorns set. Stamped them in Summer Sunrise, Raspberry Fizz, Plum Pudding, Hawaiian Shores & Dark Chocolate onto Rustic Cream Cardstock.Arranged and attached the acorns on top of a die cut Parisian Lace Doily. Stamped the center with a Autumn Acorns sentiment and embellished with rhinestones.Then finished the card off with a wrapping of 1/8" silk ribbon.

That's it from me today, I'm off to finish packing. Hope you enjoyed today card and thanks for stopping by. Have a wonderful one!

Maile

Nuts About You:

Stamps: Autumn Acorns
Ink: Dark Chocolate, Summer Sunrise, Raspberry Fizz, Plum Pudding & Hawaiian Shores
Cardstock: Rustic White
Accessories: 1/8" White Silk Ribbon, Brown Rhinestones, Autumn Acorns Dies, Parisian Lace Doily Die

Papertrey Ink - August Release Projects

2011-08-23T10:46:00.000-07:00

Since the Papertrey Ink August release has come to an end, I've got the rest of my release cards to share with you today. So, let me get started!...First up, Nichole Heady's stunning set, Harvest Berries. Started this single layer creation by stamping both the solid and outlined ginko leaves, in Simply Chartreuse and Spring Moss, onto a Rustic White card base. Layered Scarlet Jewel berries, then glazed them over with some Glossy Accents. Finished it off with a sentiment from the same stamp set.Next up, Melissa Bickford's new Flower Fusion #7. I paired this set with a few vine stripes, from Background Basics: Vines, stamped in Scarlet Jewel, Sweet Blush and Orange Zest.Created an image panel by stamping the flower, stem and sentiment onto a Rustic White Layerz Mat Stack 1 die cut. Created and attached a thin Scarlet Jewel frame, created by die cutting a Mat Stack 1 die from a Layerz Mat Stack 1 die cut.Next, Think Big Favorites #7, featuring a few sentiments from Melissa Bickford's Asian Fusion. Stamped the birthday sentiment onto a Kraft card base.Paired it with one of my new stamp sets from the month, Autumn Acorns. I die cut, stamped, trimmed and attached the acorn tops onto a few buttons. Then attached them to the card base over a few stamped leaves.Another set designed by Nichole Heady, Table Service. This set is a fun one, so many possibilities and I can't wait to play with it again! Started by stamping a sort of table runner, using vines from Background Bascis: Vines stamped in Orange Zest.Die cut, stamped and attached a table setting and finished it off with a perfect little banner sentiment. All in a fun color combo of Orange Zest, Blueberry Sky, Hibiscus Burst and Smoky Shadow.Here's one of Heather Nichole's new sets for the month, Tag-its #7, combined with Modern Wood Mats by Nichole Heady.Embellished this simple card with a small Scarlet Jewel Bloom Builders #3 (used only a couple of the bloom layers to create a smaller version of this gorgeous bloom) and a few Dark Chocolate buttons.And finally, Simply Sunflower also by Nichole Heady. I die cut and attached a couple Leafy Vine Border die cuts onto a Rustic White card base.Stamped a couple sunflowers, using the Rock and Roll technique, attached over the vines and embellished with Dark Chocolate button centers.

That's all from me today. All supplies will be listed below soon. Thanks for stopping by and have a great one!

Maile

Autumn Acorns & Background Basics: Houndstooth Day 5

2011-08-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

Yay! It's day five of the Papertrey Ink Countdown! And that means.... all that you've seen peeks of these past few days (Aututmn Acorns, Autumn Acorns Die Collection & Background Basics: Houndstooth) will be available tomorrow, August 15th, at Papertrey Ink. I've got a couple more creations to share with you before this Countdown comes to an end...First up a sweet friendship card using Autumn Acorns.I began this card by lightly drawing, by hand, an outline of a heart onto a Rustic White cardstock block. Inked the smallest leaves in Spring Moss and stamp around the heart. I then moved up a leaf size and began to stamp around the small leaves. Then erased the heart.Within the heart space I stamped a outline heart image (from the 2010 Love Tags set), a sentiment and two small acorns (from the Autumn Acorns set). Embellished with rhinestones and white silk ribbon and then attached to a Rustic Cream card base.This next single layer card pairs Autumn Acorns with Background Basics: Houndstooth.I began by stamping an acorn bottom in spring moss onto a Rustic White card base. Cut out and placed a Post It Note mask and then stamped with polka dots (from Bitty Background Blocks) in Ripe Avocado.I then stamped the acorn top and leaf. Next, I masked off both the acorn bottom and leaf and then stamped the frame (from the Fillable Frames Additions 2 set, also available August 15th).Removed the masks and stamped with the greeting. Once the ink was completely dry, I stamped a couple of houndstooth rows, in Versamark ink, across the card front and embossed with clear embossing powder.I love the shine that the clear embossing powder add. Then finished the card of with a Simply Chartreuse button.

That's it from me today! But don't forget, tomorrow (August 15th) is the day to get your hands on my newest stamp set and coordinating die at Papertrey Ink!

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Nut'n Better Than A Friend Like You:

Stamps: Autumn Acorns & 2010 Love Tags
Ink: Spring Moss & Dark Chocolate
Cardstock: Rustic White
Accessories: 1/4" White Silk Ribbon & Brown Rhinestones

Greetings:

Stamps: Autumn Acorns, Background Basics: Houndstooth, Fillable Frames Additions 2 & Bitty Background Blocks
Ink: Versamark, Spring Moss, Dark Chocolate & Ripe Avocado
Cardstock: Rustic White
Accessories: Simply Chartreuse Button, Cream Twine & Clear Embossing Powder

Gratitude Journal

2011-08-13T20:59:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Today is the second Group Post day at Papertrey Ink. This time around each of us, on the design team, are showcasing the set Gratitude Journal, designed by Dawn McVey. Our assignment is to create a project that embraces an "attitude of gratitude". For today's project I've decided to focus on an "attitude of gratitude" while at the Thanksgiving table with family and close friends. It all begins with these autumn designed die cut seed packets turned into blessings place cards. Appropriate for placing at each seat at Thanksgiving dinner for family to fill out and turn into keepsakes and an annual tradition.Inside is a "so blessed because..." card that's all ready to be filled out. Stamped these using images from both Gratitude Journal & Autumn Acorns.Each card is placed at it's proper place setting.The seed packet was die cut from kraft cardstock. The frame (created by die cutting a Fillable Frames #7 from the center of a die cut Button Card) was die cut from Spring Moss Bitty Dot Basics pattern paper and attached with dimensional adhesive. Stamped the Gratitude Journal sentiment with in the frame and emellished with a die cut acorn, leaf and twine bow.For an added detail to each place setting, I created a coordinating napkin ring. Simply tied the napkin with a Fine Linen ribbon bow, trimmed the ends (keeping them fairly long) and hot glued a few Autumn Acorns to the ribbon ends. Super simple, yet cute and can easily be mass produced.

Well, that's it from me today. Be sure to see what the rest of the Papertrey Ink design team has in store for you today...

Thanks for stopping by!

Maile

Blessings Place Cards:

Stamps: Attitude Of Gratitude & Autumn Acorns
Ink: Dark Chocolate, Spring Moss & Versamark
Cardstock: Kraft, Rustic White, Dark Chocolate, Melon Berry, Spring Moss & Harvest Gold
Pattern Paper: Spring Moss & Kraft Bitty Dot Basics
Accessories: Cream Twine, Seed Packet Die, Button Card Die, Fillable Frames #7 Die & Autumn Acorns Dies

Acorn Napkin Ring:

Accessories: Fine Linen Twill Ribbon, Dark Chocolate, Melon Berry, Spring Moss & Harvest Gold Felt

Autumn Acorns & Background Basics: Houndstooth Day 4

2011-08-12T20:59:00.000-07:00

It's Day 4 of the Papertrey Ink Countdown and I've got some more projects to share with you today that showcases my newest sets & dies... Autumn Acorns, Autumn Acorns Die Collection & Background Basics: Houndstooth (available begining August 15 at Papertrey Ink).

Since this months release is all about the autumn season, I've been gravitating into color combos more fitting for the season. For today projects, I've been having fun with a new to me autumn color combo of Melon Berry, Spring Moss, Kraft and Dark Chocolate. Usually a combination of green and melon colors have more of a springy look to them, but I've found that if you down play the colors (use them sparingly) and play up the neutral, the colors seem to be fitting for fall creations. I'm really liking!See what I mean? I love this Melon Berry Autumn Acorn! Started this card by stamping a Mat Stack #5 mat from Modern Wood Mats (available August 15th), in Fresh Snow, onto a kraft card base. Then let it set aside to dry.Once the ink was completely dry, I stamped the sentiment and flourish (also from Modern Wood Mats) in Dark Chocolate. Die cut an acorn from Dark Chocolate and Melon Berry Bitty Dot Basics pattern paper, stamped the top with Versamark ink and pieced together. Die cut, stamped a Spring Moss leaf, layered behind the acorn and then attached to the card base. Easy peasy!Next up, a card utilizing the same basic color combo, but without the Spring Moss. An element I love to use in my cards is color blocking. For this card I've pieced together a few stripes of Melon Berry, Dark Chocolate and Kraft cardstock to create a houndstooth embossed color block strip, using Background Basics: Houndstooth.Die cut and trimmed a Fillable Frames #4 die cut, stamped with a sentiment from Modern Wood Mats and attach with dimensional adhesive. Wrapped the strip with brown embroidery floss. I originally wanted to tie a bow but I ran out of thread. Bummer. Then attached the strip to a Rustic Cream card base.

Don't forget that all of the new goodies you're getting peeks at this week will be available for purchase at Papertrey Ink, beginning on August 15.

That's it from me today, but for even more sneak peek goodness, be sure to visit Nichole Heady , Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols, Melissa Bickford, Michelle Wooderson & Jessica Witty.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

The Most Special Thing:

Stamps: Modern Wood Mats & Autumn Acorns
Ink: Fresh Snow, Dark Chocolate & Versamark
Cardstock: Kraft
Pattern Paper: 2008 Bitty Dot Basics
Accessories: Autumn Acorns Dies

Because Of You:

Stamps: Background Basics: Houndstooth & Modern Wood Mats
Ink: Versamark & Dark Chocolate
Cardstock: Rustic White, Kraft, Melon Berry & Dark Chocolate
Accessories: Brown DMC Embroidery Floss, Clear Embossing Powder & Fillable Frames #4

Autumn Acorns & Background Basics: Houndstooth Day Three

2011-08-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

Hello! And welcome to Day 3 of the Papertrey Ink Countdown. Today, Nichole and I are going into a bit more detail about my two newest stamp sets and coordinating dies... Autumn Acorns, Autumn Acorns Die Collection & Background Basics: Houndstooth (all available beginning August 15th at Papertrey Ink!). So, be sure to visit Nichole's blog too for all of the details and an assortment of her amazing projects.

Now, let me get started! First up, Autumn Acorns...

You can't go wrong with coordinating dies! A set of fun shaped dies, one for the acorns and another for the leaves. No fussy cutting needed, yay! And think of all the possibilities!

Onto some samples...

Here's an invitation trio. My vision behind this trio is to give you an idea of some of the possibilities available to you when using both the stamp set and the dies together.The Kissing Technique is a fun way to dress up those stamped acorn bottoms, like I've done here using Background Basics: Houndstooth.Paper piecing is fun! Just die cut two acorns from the desired cardstock or pattern paper, trim off the top and piece together.Felt acorns add a fun texture to any project or card.

Lots of die action on the card above. I started by die cutting the leaves from Rustic Cream cardstock, stamped in Terracotta Tile and attached with dimensional adhesive to a Rustic Cream cardstock block. Then rounded all the corners of the cardstock block.

Next, I die cut the acorns from felt (Dark Chocolate, Simply Chartreuse, Harvest Gold & Fine Linen) and then trimmed and attached the tops. Added a bit of Baker's Twine stitching to each and then attached into place. Stamped the cardstock block with "Celebrate Today" (a sentiment perfect for many occasions such as birthday, wedding & etc), wrapped with more Baker's Twine and attached to a Fine Linen card base.

Next up, Background Basics: Houndstooth...As I mentioned previously, Background Basic: Houndstooth includes two background building strips, one in a large pattern and another in a small pattern. For this card, I stamped die cut buttons using both the small and large patterns, in Dark Chocolate.I paired the houndstooth patterned buttons with an autumn circle, from 2009 Autumn Tags, stamped in Summer Sunrise. Attached the circle on top of a die cut frame (created by die cutting the Fillable Frames #7 die from the soon to be release Layerz Mat Stack #1) which was adhered to a kraft card base. Then embellished with the hand stamped houndstooth and Dark Chocolate buttons.

Now onto the stamp details...As mentioned before, by Nichole and myself, Background Basics: Houndstooth has been designed with an added feature to make background building easier. When finalizing this set months ago, Nichole had expressed to me that when using Background Basics: Gingham it occurred to her that it would be so much easier to line-up if the bases went out farther around the edges of the pattern. So, when creating the final files, I made sure to add an extra wide base to the images, an approximately 1/4" extension all the way around. Check out the extra wide base in the photo above.The added base width give you an unobstructed view through the stamp itself, allowing you to clearly see exactly were your are placing your next image. Making lining up your backgrounds a breeze! Check it out above.Here's a close up of the extra wide base in action!

Well, that's it from me today. I hope you've enjoyed this detailed look into my new goodies for the month of August. Remember Autumn Acorns, Autumn Acorns Die Collection and Background Basics: Houndstooth will all be available for purchase starting August 15th, at Papertrey Ink. I honestly can't wait to see these sets in your hands and in action! But in the mean time, please let me know what you think so far. I'd love to hear!!!

Now, for even more sneak peek goodness, be sure to visit Nichole Heady , Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols, Melissa Bickford & Lisa Johnson.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

You're Invited Trio:

Stamps: Autumn Acorns & Background Basics: Houndstooth
Ink: Dark Chocolate, Simply Chartreuse, Summer Sunrise & Versamark
Cardstock: Rustic White
Pattern Paper: 2008 Bitty Dot Basics
Accessories: Simply Chartreuse, Harvest Gold & Dark Chocolate Felt & Autumn Acorns Dies

Celebrate Today:

Stamps: Autumn Acorns
Ink: Terracotta Tile & Dark Chocolate
Cardstock: Fine Linen & Rustic Cream
Accessories: Chocolate Baker's Twine, Dark Chocolate, Fine Linen, Simply Chartreuse & Harvest Gold Felt, Autumn Acorns Dies & Corner Rounder

With Thanks:

Stamps: Background Basics: Houndstooth & 2009 Autumn Tags
Ink: Dark Chocolate & Summer Sunrise
Cardstock: Kraft & Rustic White
Accessories: Rustic Jute Button Twine, Dark Chocolate Buttons, Coaster Board, 1 3/4" Circle Punch, Fillable Frames #7 Die & Layerz Mat Stack #1 Die

Autumn Acorns & Background Basics: Houndstooth Day 2

2011-08-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hello all! It's day two of the Papertrey Ink Countdown. I hope you all are enjoying everything so far! Well, I'm back today to share some more of my latest stamp sets... Autumn Acorns & Background Basics: Houndstooth. This time around I've chosen to focus on the masculine abilities of these two sets. So, here are a couple of cards perfect for the man in your life!...For my first card, I started by stamping a border, using the smaller pattern from Background Basics: Houndstooth, in Versamark onto a kraft card base. Then rounded the bottom right corner.Die cut and stamped the leaves, acorn top and acorn bottom, from Autumn Acorns. I applied the Rock & Roll inking technique to the acorn, using Ripe Avocado and Dark Chocolate inks. Stamped the sentiment and wrapped the card base with some Rustic Button Twine.This second card is a play on this fun sentiment. I die cut a Half & Half strip from a Pacific Vineyard pattern paper block and attached it to a Rustic White card base.Die cut and stamped the acorns in varying shades of green. I arranged the acorns along the side of the card base to make them appear as if they were falling and then attached them, with dimensional adhesive, at different heights. Finished the card of with "Falling For You", also from Autumn Acorns.

So, I hope you've enjoyed these last two days of Autumn Acorns and Background Basics: Houndstooth. If you can't wait to get your hands on these sets, just remember they become available starting August 15th at Papertrey Ink. And remember... I'd love to know what you think, so please share!

Now, for even more sneak peek goodness, be sure to visit Nichole Heady , Dawn McVey, Heather Nichols & Melissa Bickford.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Maile

Nut's About You:

Stamps: Autumn Acorns & Background Basic: Houndstooth
Ink: Versamark, Ripe Avocado & Dark Chocolate
Cardstock: Kraft & Rustic White
Accessories: Rustic Jute Button Twine, Autumn Acorns Dies & Corner Rounder

Falling For You:

Stamps: Autumn Acorns & Background Basics: Houndstooth
Ink: Spring Moss, Simply Chartreuse & Ranger Distress Ink Frayed Burlap
Cardstock: Rustic White
Pattern Paper: Pacific Vineyard
Accessories: Half & Half Die & Autumn Acorns Dies