Craft Accident

Soul Restoration

2011-05-08T13:43:00.001-05:00

Loving the Soul Restoration. Workshop from Melody Ross and the Brave Girls Club!

Here are some of my pages from the workshop. The book is actually pretty huge. I may need to break it into two.

I'm sad the class is almost over. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone!

Selling a Bunch of Stuff...

2011-04-07T19:12:00.000-05:00

I'm selling a bunch of stuff in my NEW etsy Shop! Stamps... and Vintage things... supplies, books, linens, and some cards (eventually).

Free shipping for you and yours, just enter FB001 at checkout!

Check it out.

Messing with Killer Whales

2010-03-28T14:01:00.001-05:00

I am not afraid to.

click to enlarge

I Love Rachel Maddow.

2009-12-09T01:08:00.000-06:00

Make sure you watch this... and make sure you watch Rachel every night... because she says DUDE in her interviews. Below is her interview with this awful man who claims he can help homosexuals "come out straight". His "facts" are being used to promote to Ugandan "Kill the Gays" Bill... a Bill that will likely become law.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

So this is the stuff that keeps me up at night. The world is sort of effed up.

Maybe I will Blog... Maybe

2009-12-05T01:49:00.001-06:00

No promises, I can't make a firm commitment. But with by Brother and Sister blogging I feel sort of guilt ridden about my lack of blog. So perhaps a picture will suffice... and if this fortune cookie is any indication, the future will be thrilling... thrilling I say.

Today I attended the One of A Kind Show in Chicago... sort of a let down for me. I'm disappointed by how many are offended by the word "craft". Sometimes I think Martha S. has done us a disservice my making craft so perfect, precious and attached to the "happy home-maker". Don't get me wrong, I loves me my Martha... but she's really contributed to the separation between crafts and fine art. I'd like to see that change.

Stay tuned to this blog or Craft Critique for more on the OOAK show... Now I am off to try and sleep, which should prove to be difficult without any string cheese in the house (night cheese!)

Oh, and if you missed this weeks 30 Rock watch it on Hulu... I think it was one of the funniest ever.

Funny... and a Lesson for Marketers

2009-03-20T02:51:00.008-05:00

As the owner of CraftCritique.com I receive almost daily emails from marketers. They want to optimize our blog for search engines, have us review their non-crafty products, have us SELL their product, loan us money, or a million other things that either do not make any sense or are totally not appropriate for our business.

Out of all the marketing emails we receive I would say less than 5% are applicable to us or worth pursuing in any way. So when I read this article, "A lesson to marketers about the importance of reading the blogs they pitch to but who probably won’t read this because they don’t read the blogs they pitch to", by the Bloggess; Jenny Lawson, I immediately related.

In this post (which you should read right now) Jenny schools a marketing rep for a lotion company who contacts her to test their product line. She toys with him, explaining her need for a SPF shielding lotion to protect her lawn maintenance staff from the dangers of rock dissolving acids. It becomes apparent that not only has he not read her blog, he is barely reading her emails.... hilarity ensues, and a lesson is learned.

The email pitches we receive are so random and ridiculous I always figured there wasn't even a real person on the other end of most of them... they read like Nigerian Lottery win announcements. I just delete them and move on, figuring if I responded I would just end up on more spam lists as a result.

But Jenny's post inspired me, and today I decided to try my luck at badgering a marketing rep. This time from a company that promises to place my products in their network of stores... note that this was sent to Craft Critique, not my personal blog. If you have visited CC you know we do not sell anything, and it's pretty obvious at a glance.

-----Original Message-----
From: David T.
Sent: Thursday, March 19, 2009 3:17 PM
To: info@craftcritique.com
Subject: Re: I'm interested in selling your crafts through our stores

I sent you an email a few months ago about selling your crafts through our network of stores. I think they'd be a great fit. Do you wholesale?

We work hand in hand with buyers from thousands of specialty stores, gift shops, large chains, mail-order catalog companies and Internet shopping sites. We need a larger variety of crafts they can choose from, hence my email to you.

If you're interested in selling your pieces to more stores visit us at (his URL was HERE) We guarantee sales.

Sincerely,
David T.
Director of Merchandising
Company Name

My Response...

-----Original Message-----
From: Sarah Moore [mailto:sarah@craftcritique.com]
Sent: Thursday, March 19, 2009 3:13 PM
To: 'David T'
Subject: RE: I'm interested in selling your crafts through our stores

That sounds great! How do I begin?

I actually have an overstock of 1000 chain-maile maternity shirts I need to unload. They had been ordered custom by a specialty chain of medieval maternity shops... but with the economy being what it is they just canceled the order. Unfortunately for me I have a very quick staff and they had completed the whole collection before we received the notice of cancellation.

Do you need images of the products? They are a basic tunic style, in silver-tone chain-maile with faux ruby embellishments. I can change the stones out to pink or blue if you think that would be more marketable than red.

I eagerly await your response! Thank you so much for contacting us!

-Sarah

and best of all, HIS follow up!

-----Original Message-----
From: David T.
Sent: Thursday, March 19, 2009 6:27 PM
To: 'Sarah Moore'
Subject: RE: I'm interested in selling your crafts through our stores

It's optional to add images, although adding images will help move your products.

As per your email, to get started simply register at (his URL was HERE) Send me an email when you register and I'll forward you instruction on how to get set-up. I'll also add a free month to your account.

Sincerely,
David T.

I honestly don't even know how to respond next! Maybe I will see if I can find an image to send him of my chain-maile maternity tunics... anyone know a chain-maile artist?

The Foot: Day Nine

2009-03-12T02:23:00.004-05:00

I suppose it's nice to finally have something interesting to blog about... assuming my audience wasn't interested in hearing about my online scrabble escapades, preschool stories or trips to Target.

So here is the lowdown; I have broken the foot... in two spots... the Distal Tibia and the 2nd Metatarsal. These images aren't of my actual x-rays... but they are pretty close to what I saw today. Perhaps I can get a hold of the films when they are done with them so I can use them for scrapping... or to decorate my windows next Halloween.

The VERY good news is; no surgery. Awesome! The bad news is; I am in a cast for 6 weeks... at least. And then a soft boot for a few more weeks. NO weight bearing, which is practically impossible for a girl with no upper body strength. No driving for at least 8 weeks. Whatever.

subtle no?

Thank goodness I have such an amazing husband... in so many ways; making dinner, fetching me things, helping get Andy ready in the morning. He even has a feta and spinach casserole in the fridge as we speak for tomorrow... he's practically a show off!

The child on the other hand is really going through some "stuff". I think this is just a lot for him to handle. Suddenly he has been asked to step up to the plate, which he is clearly irritated by.

So *that* is the dealio. I will be sitting here on my couch a lot, and I hope to get some crafting in... and some more blogging. Tomorrow I may bust out the Knifty Knitter.

Craft Critique on the other hand is going gangbusters! I have been meeting some amazing people to network and cross promote with. It's been fun and exciting, and the new things we have coming up over there really have my mojo inspired!

Thank you ALL for your well wishes; via tweet, Facebook, and email... or the comments you have left here. Allthough I haven't met many of you I feel like you are truly my friends. Hearing you share your stories of coping with injury is very inspirational to me. I feel so connected to you all!

Foot Update; Day Three

2009-03-06T20:59:00.005-06:00

So it is day three of the injury, and the foot is still swelling. The bruises are moving around in all sorts of colorful and exciting ways. The soft boot I have to wear and the crutches are making it easier for me to get around the house. I unfortunately have to take codeine for the pain... but I am taking Advil first... and only take the codeine secondary.

It's much more painful at this point than I anticipated. Using the crutches is a whole body experience, working muscles I didn't know I had, causing me to be exhausted at the end of the day.

The depression is already creeping up on me. Last spring was consumed by my mom's illness; no gardening, no vacations, stuck inside... etc. After our particularly cold and snowy winter I am already feeling stir crazy, so I am not looking forward to a possible 3 months of no driving or walking.

Tomorrow I have my CT scan and my MRI... and Wednesday I will follow up with the doctor to get the results. Meanwhile, my wonderful husband is taking care of me. Even my 4 year old has really stepped up to the plate; fetching things for mommy and be very careful not to jump on me directly.

I would like to say I will wait until the results of the CT scan are in before I start to freak out.... but I am starting to freak, a little bit. I am not a very patient person, nor am I good at loosing my independence. Time will tell!

Falling

2009-03-04T22:01:00.007-06:00

It's true... I fall a lot. About once a year I have a fall that either forces me to the doctor or to consume mega doses of Advil. Some may call it clumsy, but the medical term is dyspraxia. Now I have never been officially diagnosed dyspraxic, but when you've been to the ER as much as I have you can legally call yourself a Doctor.

Last night I was bounding down the stairs, skipping really, filled with glee brought on by scoring 100% singing "Eye of the Tiger" on Rock Band. Maybe I was drunk with success; maybe I was high on Japanese candy and baked brie (a typical midnight snack). Either way the distractions caused me to miss the last step on a flight of stairs.

Lucky for me my husband heard my wails and rushed to my aide. Lucky for me the crunching sound I heard wasn't my ankle snapping directly in two as I predicted before I looked down at my foot. Lucky for me I have a husband, I don't work outside the home and my son is able to walk. Lucky, lucky, lucky...

So as it turns out I have what's called a Lisfranc injury... this is apparently the sort of thing people get when they survive a 2 story fall or a plane crash. Saturday I will have an MRI and CT scan to determine the extent of the damage. Please hope along with me that surgery isn't the prescription.

This is also of course my RIGHT foot. So I can’t drive. Greater that the fear of surgery is the concern that I will not be able to go to Target alone for a very long time. I like going to Target… and I like going there without husband and child.

My new slogan; “it is what it is”… I have said it about a hundred times today. I am still looking for the sliver lining in this cloud. Maybe I will get some reading done, pick up my knitting again or start blogging more.

My Cool Kid

2009-02-22T18:28:00.005-06:00

My four year old has taken to screen writing... He drew this storyboard for Indiana Jones Four... "Return of the Evil Eyeball".

His dad went and added the captions for him... but the story and artwork are all him. I like the whip.

We will be in touch Marty!

How Sweet is This?

2009-02-11T12:49:00.002-06:00

I was nominated for a Tip Junkie Award!

Too be honest... I didn't know there WAS a Tip Junkie Blog... but now that I do I can tell I will be hanging out there a ton! Great stuff there... and something for everyone. In fact, I just spent 45 minutes poking around!

I guess if you click on that button you could vote for me... that would be great!

Best Fortune Ever

2009-01-27T06:29:00.001-06:00

Best Fortune Ever
Originally uploaded by staramaze

This is not a drill.

For All My Nerds

2009-01-22T07:52:00.001-06:00

Super funny video... A synopsis of the Star Wars Trilogy as told by someone who's never seen it.

Star Wars: Retold (by someone who hasn't seen it) from Joe Nicolosi on Vimeo.

Call Your Local Scrapbooking Store NOW!

2009-01-20T01:02:00.005-06:00

And tell them you NEED them to order the new Sassafras Lass line "Vintage Yummy".

My favorite samples....

All Bloggy Women

2008-12-17T18:39:00.001-06:00

You should all READ THIS.

And watch this...

Thanks.

Revisit the Melt-a-way Cookie!

2008-12-15T10:11:00.005-06:00

It's cookie time again! I spent the weekend baking, and of course I have to make my favorite cookies every year... the Melt-a-way. These are my Grandmother's cookies, and I have never had anything else like them.

Make a batch, you will not be sorry.

Here is the recipe

This year I also created an Eggnog Melt-a-way for a little twist! Just add about 1/4 tsp. of fresh grated nutmeg to the dough, and then 1/4 tsp. of nutmeg and a 1/4 tsp. of rum flavoring to the frosting... mmm!

Thanksgiving Prep...

2008-11-27T00:34:00.004-06:00

Mmm... Thanksgiving is so soon I can taste it!

Pumpkin Cheesecake...

The brine for the Turkey...

Pecan Bars...

Passive aggressive refrigerator stacking...

I hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving... even the vegans. ;)

If You Like Legos and Project Runway...

2008-11-23T12:18:00.002-06:00

and who doesn't

JCDC Versus LEGO from Four H on Vimeo.

My Hep-Cat Daddy-O

2008-11-19T22:05:00.002-06:00

Please enjoy this clip of my dad and his band, Backseat Reunion, singing Honky Tonk Woman.

Yes We DID!

2008-11-05T10:25:00.003-06:00

Words can not describe how it felt to be amongst people of all races, religions, backgrounds, classes and preferences when CNN announced that Barack Obama will be our next president. We cried, we hugged and we all felt the spirit of America together! I have never felt so patriotic in all my life!

Making History

2008-11-04T15:56:00.002-06:00

Tonight I am attending the Obama Rally in Grant Park. I am so excited to have an opportunity to help make history!

One Day More!

2008-11-03T00:18:00.001-06:00

Please don't forget to vote! Let's make history!

Halloween Adventures!

2008-10-31T01:07:00.004-05:00

Today was dress up day at the preschool! I was in my gushing mom glory... Andy was so happy as R2D2, and if I do say so myself... the costume ROCKED!

The hat was made from a party bowl that I sprayed silver. I glued it to a bike helmet to keep it secure. There are several spots that light up too... I used small lights designed to used inside pumpkins or on bikes to make the light up features. My fave local nerdy-goods store American Science and Surplus supplied us with a lot of the "parts"; bike reflectors, odd-ball wires and strange grills from who knows what!

The body was shaped from an Ikea hamper covered with white duct tape. I just cut a hole in the bottom of the hamper and flipped it over! All the blue is also duct tape... I used 3 rolls in all!

He loved his R2D2ness so much he just had to do the Robot...

And here is a fun lunch I made for Andy-pants yesterday... a "mummy dog", bread bones, worms with blood sauce, monster goo yogurt, and apple lips! See Family Fun for some recipes and great ideas for Halloween treats!

But needless to say, all this Halloween madness has left me pooped... and it isn't even Halloween yet! I am totally planning to steal all the child's peanut butter cups and skittles to make up for my sleeplessness!

Stay tuned for pics of our Barack-o-lantern! and don't forget to VOTE!

Think Before You Speak

2008-10-09T20:56:00.001-05:00

In case you haven't seen it yet... This is awesome.

Go HERE to read more.

Latest Layouts....

2008-10-06T23:22:00.004-05:00

Just popping by to show some of my latest layouts... These were created for the Project Catwalk contest over at SIS TV... and I am proud to say I made it into the top 25, so I get to play in the finals! It's honestly been so fun, I wouldn't have been disappointed if I hadn't made it. Ok, maybe a little disappointed! :)

On this page I used Tim Holtz's metal numbers and spray painted them to give them a new look.

This layout features a layer I created by weaving strips of a cut page protectors into a square and sewing the edges.

I used a Goody Brand barrette and a bento food pick as an embellishment too... see!

For this page I cased this amazing layout by my online pal mrschez. It features a little vintage pin that I found at a thrift store... it says "I ride the bus"... how cute is that?

Thrifty Finds

2008-09-22T22:22:00.005-05:00

So... what I have I been spending my garage sale money on? Stuff from other people's garage sales! Seriously... it's a sickness... but it's my only vice left!

Last week, Martha and I went shopping... and I picked up some of these items.... Others I bought sans miss Martha... because, to be honest... if she'd been with me we would have had to wrestle over them... and I hate to have to beat up my friends.

Vintage Doll Trunk

Felt Wall Hanging/Organizer circa 1970

Shabby Chic Painting

Doll Pram

Miniature Cuckoo Style Clocks

Melamine Plate with Little Red Riding Hood Design

1960's Hair Bows

Button Cards

Vintage Wood Burned/Hand Colored Postcards

Amazing 70's Fabric

1930's Typewriter

Haunted House and Mini Book Class

2008-09-19T00:09:00.004-05:00

How cute is this little house... it's by Maya Road and that little mini book comes with and fits inside! Oh golly I love Halloween!

You likey? You want to learn to makey?

Call Craft Fancy today to sign up for my October class! Whoo hoo! I will bring the chocolate!

What I am Doing This Weekend...

2008-09-12T21:53:00.001-05:00

If you live in the area you best NOT miss this...

Avast Me Hearties! Arrrrg!

2008-09-08T22:15:00.004-05:00

Ahoy!

Talk Like a Pirate Day is soon approaching me maties! September 19th to be exact. To celebrate I be hostin' a lil' challenge with some treasured blog booty!

To take part just make a card or a layout to celebrate the day and post a link here on me blog before the 17th day of this September.

I will choose the best of all the buccaneers, and they will receive some fun loot! No hornswagglin' now... you can only enter once!

If you care to overhaul ye Pirate speak lookee here lassie.

If ye require some swashbuckling stamps to create ye projects... I'd be settin' sail for justjohanna's Odd Bird Planet.

It's Almost ALL Gone!

2008-09-08T00:32:00.003-05:00

So... I sold 90% of my stamps... and it felt so good! Don't worry, I have gobs left.

BTW... are you an Illinois Demo in need of some supplies? I have large heavy boxes full of Stampin' Success', Inspiration sheets, postcards, order forms... Plus lots of convention key chains and workbooks, old catalogs from 7 years... mini's too... It's be a great haul for a new demo.

I'd take cash or whatever... I am open to suggestions. Just email me if you are interested.

Pick up only... I can't carry this HEAVY box to the Post office. Rather, I don't want to. :)

Get Yer Shop On!

2008-09-05T02:00:00.000-05:00

Please tell everyone you know! I can't make my husband carry these boxes BACK into the house! :)

I am having a MAJOR Garage Sale on 9/5 - 9/7 from 9AM to 5PM. I am selling MOST of my Stampin' Up! stamps; hundreds... and almost all under $10 (most under $5), some non-SU! stamps too, TONS of paper, tools, punches, alterable items, embellishments... etc, etc, etc. Lots of current sets, many retired sets. Come one come all!

Attention Demos: I have a lot of supplies that are perfect for your classes! Or buy $5 sets just for workshop prizes! Many are UNMOUNTED or at least UNUSED!

Also lots of little boy (newborn- 3T), toys, plus size women's clothes, and household stuffs.

If you live in the area please tell your friends! I am sorry, but I can not accept pre-sale viewing or save items for anyone. There is just TOO MUCH to go through! But PLEASE come see what I have. You will not be disappointed!

649 N. Spring Street
Elgin, IL 60120

From the Mouths of Babes...

2008-09-03T19:56:00.002-05:00

Andy, "Who's that guy?"
Me, "Barack Obama".
Andy, "Is he taking over for President Lincoln cause Lincoln died?"
Me, "I hope so".

I guess that trip to Springfield when Andy was 2 really made an impact!

Pardon My Dust

2008-09-02T23:49:00.002-05:00

I am playing with the layout of the blog... I know it's a mess... pay it no mind.

Layouts For Your Viewing Pleasure...

2008-09-01T22:11:00.002-05:00

I be scrappin' yo!

This first layout reminds me of the wallpaper in my childhood bedroom... it was all stripy and patterned and WILD. Isn't my kitty cute?

This sweet little birdie is a Martha Stewart Crafts Punch... from Walmart. The little Orange Love Birdies are a Goody barrette.

This is my little friend Scooter. Could be BE any cuter!?!

Thanks for looking!

Anderson starts pre-school tomorrow. Wish me luck in waking up on time... I think this is going to be a bigger test for mommy!

My Son is Miro

2008-08-27T01:38:00.005-05:00

Please allow me this mommy moment... but I think my son may be Joan Miro incarnate.

Anderson Moore: Untitled

Joan Miro: Nocturne

I just think there is something wonderful about this drawing... and the fact that he sat still and quiet for over an hour to create it was such a bonus!

And please... no comments telling me I am deluded... I already know and I love my world.

Happy Accident

2008-08-22T00:45:00.003-05:00

Ever make a page or a card... post it online... read the comments and then learn something new about your work? That's what happened with this layout; a little something I made for Category Stories. Many of the comments I received talked about the patterns, and the dots... and how cool it was that they all matched. Totally NOT planned! then I realized how many dots were in the papers, ribbons and letters I chose for this layout... a completely happy accident!

So check it out....

Dots in the clouds, dots on the sun rays, dots in the letters, dots on the ribbon... dots, dots dots! My only "concept" with this layout was the layers; from the bottom it's sand, water, sunshine and sky... but the reason it seems to "work" is because of the dots that pull it all together!

Who knew!

Pardon this Commercial Interruption...

2008-08-20T22:51:00.004-05:00

Are you looking to re-new your scrapping mojo? Well check out these goodies... Tim Holz metal numbers, papers from the American Crafts Amplified collection, Maya Road Sheer ribbon and much, much more!

As quickly as you can say "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" the "Urban Prep" collection can be yours from the boutique over at SIS TV. It's available for pre-order until 8/24. and what's super-duper is if you spend spend $50 you'll also get A $10 SIS TV Gift Card!

Whoo hoo! Scrappy goodies!

Scrapping my Barack Off!

2008-08-12T01:07:00.008-05:00

For the "Project Catwalk" Mini Book Challenge over at SIS TV... I Baracked it up. I did a google image search for "Obama Art" to get most of the pictures. I love all the art that people are creating with Obama's image!

Please register to vote if you haven't already!

Shaft... RIP Isaac Hayes

2008-08-11T00:20:00.000-05:00

A Layout... and Tot-Art

2008-08-09T01:15:00.005-05:00

Just a fun layout from a random "shopping" challenge on SIS... We had to pick three items off a list to use on our layout... I sellected American Crafts Paper, Metal and Candy wrappers. I had been saving these Japanese gum wrappers for a while... I think they fit the bill.

How cute did these thank you cards turn out? My son chose the colors, and the stamp... I did the stamping, and he did all the coloring... he certainly added his touch!

I just finished a really great mini album that I am super proud of... I can't wait to show you!

Remember Puffy Stickers?

2008-08-07T01:19:00.003-05:00

I used to have a wonderful collection of puffy stickers... alligator shaped, rainbows, some neon pink hearts I'm sure. So when I saw the new Puffy line by American Crafts I was immediately taken back to the early 80's.

I just loved how easy it was to apply the AC rub-ons to the Puffy stickers. I actually could just press it in place with my fingers.

Paper, ribbon and Puffy Chit-Chat Accents by AC. Bird punch by Martha Stewart Crafts for Walmart.

I Think I'm Funny

2008-08-06T01:26:00.003-05:00

I admit it. I crack myself up!

I know it's hard to see those tiny letters... here is a close up...

Don't you love how the Rub Ons (Hambly of course) looks on this textured paper?

Don't ask me who to send this card to... I have no idea.

Project Catwalk... Week Three

2008-08-04T02:52:00.006-05:00

Ok, I am still playing Project Catwalk over at SIS TV... even though at this point I think it would be impossible for me to win mathematically.

Hopefully you are watching Project Runway... and you know that while Keith's dress was in the bottom three, it would have made a cool scrapbook page. He used a wet newspaper as his inspiration.

So I used a bunch of Japanese newspaper squares as my inspiration... and I Mod Podged them in place with matte finished MP. I used a Dymo labeler to create the journaling.

The picture I used is of me at age 4ish... aren't I cute! I see so much of my son in this picture. Boy I wish I still had that Fisher Price Camera!

Edited to add: how hilarious is this... I was selected as one of the winners for this week! Miss Kayla Aimee chose me for her fave... and I could not be more thrilled! Thanks everyone!

Project Catwalk... Week Two!

2008-07-27T01:40:00.005-05:00

I started playing in the Project Catwalk Challenges over on SIS TV... totally fun... they follow Project Runway and the challenges are each a take on a particular episode. This week, the challenge was to create a card, using mostly the color green, the cellophane packaging from an embellishment like Thickers, and a newspaper envelope... and this is what I came up with...

I wrapped the Cellophane around a rectangle of paper and sealed the back with tape... with the little star sprinkles inside. The paper is from the new October Afternoon "Nightlight" collection... To make the envelope I just took an envelope apart and used it as a template.

Are You on Facebook?

2008-07-24T17:43:00.002-05:00

If not... what are you waiting for... a written invitation? Well, here it is!

Find me HERE.

Find Craft Critique HERE.

What are you DOING??

2008-07-20T22:46:00.001-05:00

You shouldn't be reading my blog when you could be HERE reading about CHA!

It's CHA season!

2008-07-11T00:22:00.004-05:00

Oh baby... the previews are coming for CHA and I am drooling! Firstly... how flippin' wizard is this new paper by Cosmo Cricket. I wanna eat with a spoon! Check their blog for more yumminess.

And now for some predictions... I BETTER see way more recycled stuff, Japanese Kawaii (cute), and for winter... I predict some Scandinavian or Russian designs. Also fairy tale stuff; like lil' red riding hood and humpty dumpty maybe? Owls are still going strong, but add more woodland creatures to the mix please. And maybe some 80's goodness; neon, checks, rubber, lace, rainbows, unicorns, graffiti... I mean hells bells, where is the Electric Boogaloo paper line I have been searching for???

Check back here for the amazing conclusion to my CHA roundup. And be sure to tune in to Craft Critique all week for the best sneak peeks!

New Artist Alert!

2008-07-01T01:24:00.004-05:00

(click to enlarge)

Got Pride?

2008-06-30T01:45:00.004-05:00

Happy Pride week everyone! I spent this Sunday at the Gay Pride Parade in Chicago with my Brother and some friends... what a mad-house! The weather was beautiful except for a couple quick downpours that served to thin out the crowds a little bit.

Pride was great for people watching and I was able to play photographer and got some amazing shots. Here are a few of my favorites... but check back in a couple days to my Flickr, I will upload the rest there ASAP!

80's Flashback...

2008-06-24T01:40:00.002-05:00

This clip was shared on SIS TV today... and I just need to say...

Who ARE those two guys dancing behind Debbie... and how OLD are they???

For what occasion are the random "audience" dancers dressed? One chick looks like she's in a prom/wedding gown... and everyone looks like either Madonna or Don Johnson sellected their outfits.

This video is perfect for playing my favorite game "Count the Mullets". Play along!

I recommend you stick around for the second 1/2 of the clip... the last 30 seconds feature some of the best dancing by men in suspenders I have ever... and I mean ever seen.

And now, confession time. I just spent like 30 minutes of my life watching this OVER and OVER.

Thank you Debbie Gibson... thank you!

More From the Digi Front...

2008-06-11T00:20:00.002-05:00

Yes... it's the scrapblog again. I fear I may be addicted! it's just so easy to put a cool layout together while you are sitting in front of the TV... or chatting on the phone. I used to swear I would NEVER go digi... and well, here I am. Digiing it up all over the place!

What's so rad about SB is that you don't need any editing software... and it's so easy! Here are some VERY basic tips I have learned over there at scrapblog, if you decide to give it a whirl...

1. Drop shadows are the key to making your images pop... but some graphics look great without the shadow... then they look more like a rub on or stamp.

2. Experiment with editing your pictures with SB... My faves are BOOST and vignette... Antique is cool too! Play with using multiple treatments.

3. Stickers can go anywhere! In the layout below I used a photo corner under the word love... in the "baby likes the wall" layout... the journaling is done on a scrap sticker that is really a frame. I just hid the frame part behind the picture. Overlapping stickers can create new looks too... like in the layout below I stitched on top of a scrap of notebook paper to create a whole new embellishment.

4. Play with the opacity of your stickers... let the background show through. Think of how a piece of notebook paper or strip of masking tape would really look when laid over a piece of patterned paper, and mimic that by adjusting the opacity.

5. make your own background papers by layering papers on top of each other. Select a background from the background section... and then choose background STICKERS to lay in full over the top... then adjust the OPACITY of those stickers. In the layout below I used a sticker to create the distressing around the sides... then I took that same sticker, rotated it to vary the pattern and used that as a THIRD layer. In the last layout I used a very bright blue (with stars) for the background... and then layered a light beige background sticker over the top... and lightened up the opacity. to create a blended look.

6. Are you looking for the nifty Audrey Neal Digi kits (as seen in my 2nd and 3rd layouts above) that are availible for free in Scrapblog??? Well, you can ONLY find them if you access Scrapblog via Scrap in Style TV... HERE... look all the way at the bottom for the little button on the left...

What... you aren't a member yet of Scrap in Style TV? well sign up... that's were all the fun is happenin'! And when you do sign up, find me and say hello! I am staramaze (there and everywhere).

Stay tuned for some cool shots of my new fave store... Craft Fancy!

Oh Dear God She's Talking About Politics....

2008-06-07T00:52:00.003-05:00

Funny site if you BaROCK the vote... are a Mama for Obama... or just think Barack is your homeboy... Just visit and start clicking away... endless fun.

CLICK HERE NOW

My faves....
Barack Obama wanted you to have some cupcakes

Barack Obama has a balloon for you

Barack Obama emailed your dad and told him how great you are

Barack Obama spent the afternoon setting up your router

And to be fair and non-partisan...
For McCain Fans... although... note the ads... Barack's site was free yo!

REGISTER TO VOTE NOW!

Craftin's Hard Y'all!

2008-06-04T22:20:00.005-05:00

Thank god for Basic Grey chipboard files... without them this project would not have been possible. It took three days... and some hand cramps... and to be honest, I don't know why I decided to make it. Just for "fun" I guess. But it wasn't very fun. It was boring and took way too long. I would call it a labor of love... but that would mean I loved the process right???

Anywhoo... here it is in all it's glory. The sunshine mobile....

Click on photos to enlarge

Chipboard by Stampin' Up' (and me)... Paper by Daisy D's, Love Elsie, Fancy Pants and K&Company. Ribbon and twine by Martha Stewart Crafts. Vintage Buttons.

I stitched the faces on to the paper by hand before I affixed it to the chipboard.

Each chipboard piece was hand sanded and sponged with white craft ink.

The buttons were stitched prior to affixing them to the chipboard with Scotch Quick Dry adhesive. The holes were created with a crop-a-dile and secured with eyelets.

Don't Worry!

2008-05-31T20:42:00.003-05:00

I hope I didn't scare you all with my digi posts! I haven't gone all digi... just SOME digi! :) To be honest I do NOT really know what I am doing in the digi realm... which is why scrapblog has really gotten me excited... it's so easy! (and no... I am not being paid to say this! lol!)

Anywhoo... I figured I should post some of the non digi stuffs I have been working on... I have been working, but not on Design Team work. For now I have had to drop out of all my teams to focus on family.

I love this line Wonder Years by Daisy D's. This line was designed by the wonderful artist Stephanie DosReis of "A Little Deer".

When I was in a funk Stephanie of the Living Room Floor sent me the cutest pack of tags. Isn't that the sweetest! She totally brought back my mojo!

Stamped on 12X12 watercolor paper and colored with Peerless watercolors.

Paper was bleached to create the background design... then painted with acrylics.

A Japanese book on paper crafts was the inspiration for this layout.

cutie pie

2008-05-31T04:55:00.001-05:00

max
Originally uploaded by staramaze

Another digi page from scrapblog... I am having a blast with this!

I am Coming Back!

2008-05-30T01:43:00.003-05:00

Slowly but surely... I have been playing with Scrapblog... and so should you! Here is one of my first digi layouts... Don't be scared... it's not a movie really... cause it's just one page long. To be honest, I am still figuring things out there.

Learn along with me!

Stay tuned for more!

I live!

2008-03-16T22:35:00.003-05:00

Sorry everyone... I know I have been absent from my blog. I just wanted to pop in and say that I am okay, I just have some personal extended family stuff going on.

I have actually taken some formal personal time from my Design Team duties. I do have some amazing projects to share soon... some things I created a few weeks back. I will also be back soon with card challenges again... I guess we will have to play catch up with the 52 cards a year challenge!

Also, thanks to all of you for your kind emails and cards!

pardon the ads!

2008-02-26T02:43:00.001-06:00

so... something odd is happening with my little ole blog. Until I figure it out... please pardon the large google ads at the bottom of this post.

Danka!

I Be Scrappin Yo!

2008-02-22T02:40:00.002-06:00

So I've been bleaching stuff... my hair, T-shirts, paper... The look on this page was created by sponging a 50% bleach solution on a scrolly stamp... bleaching out the image (just wait or use a heat tool to dry)... then I watercolored with a bright pink dye ink.

The other images were stamped in with the same color ink... Positively pink by SU! in this case. Then I used a blue glaze pen and a spica copic glitter pen to doodle on the paper further. Gold Glitter Thickers top it off.

Photo by Kim Brimhall.

This page was created with a kit Martha made for me ages ago... Oh how I miss my little baby! 31/2 is too old!

I've Fallen in Love with a Robot and Moved to Mars...

2008-02-16T01:27:00.003-06:00

and yes, I've dyed my hair pink too.

Sorry for the lack of posts... check out Craft Critique to see what I have been up too... I will return shortly with loads of stories to tell.

52 Cards a Year... Challenge Number Six: No Stamping Required...

2008-02-07T00:13:00.001-06:00

This week let's bust out our rub-ons, felt, fabric, cool paper and embellishments... and make a NO STAMPING card... heck, who has time for anything else this week!

This card features an adorable birdie and a journaling card by Jenni Bowlin. On the left edge a rub-on layers nicely over paper by Hambly Screen Prints. Easy Peasy!

lpmkate... You Won!

2008-02-04T23:27:00.000-06:00

Winner of my drawing for a free set of Valentine stamps is...

lpmkate said...: Here is mine:

http://www.scrapinstyletv.com/portfolio/view_layout.php?layout_id=61129&user_id=2166

Email me your address and I will get your stampy prize out to you!

:)

Thanks to everyone for participating in my challenges... I will be doing these random drawings every so often for those who play along... so keep on posting your cards!

My New Theme...

2008-02-03T22:11:00.000-06:00

Fun music by The Dollyrots.

I hope you know I am kidding... but "my brain is really supersized"... my other fave line; "I don't need you, cause I'm neat-o".

:)

I Heart Valentine's Day!

2008-02-02T13:55:00.000-06:00

Here is an almost-one-layer card made with Kitchen Sink Stamps. Inspired by a t-shirt I just bought, this card has a Silver Embossed Layer over the top of a series of images stamped in dye inks.

Paper: whisper white, Real Red and Brushed Silver. Ink: Real Red, Pretty in Pink, Regal Rose, Versamark. Accessories: Silver Embossing Powder, Red "Bling" card candy by A Muse.

Lizzie Anne Designs Project of the Month

2008-02-02T13:49:00.000-06:00

I created a special Valentine project for Lizzie Anne Designs this month. Click HERE to see the instructions on how to make this card.

Groundhog's Day!

2008-02-02T13:31:00.000-06:00

Here in America (and in Canada) we have a weird tradition... It's called Groundhog's Day. Once a year... on February 2nd, Punxsutawney Phil pops out of his hole and predicts the weather. If he sees his shadow then we will have 6 more weeks of winter.

Of course we WILL have 6 more weeks of winter... good thing I am going to California.

What weird holidays do you celebrate in your country?

Paper Heart Chain... Snow... and Potty Training...

2008-02-01T03:49:00.000-06:00

Just a quick little Valentine's Day craft. This literally took me 10 minutes to make.

Just cut a double sided patterned paper into 1" strips, fold in 1/2 and then use sticky strip to adhere at the top/center of the heart. Make sure you use a thicker paper so the hearts hold their shape... and a very strong adhesive.

It's snowing again in NW Illinois... last weekend I actually went sledding... and I lived to tell the tale! Here are some pics to make you warm-climate-types a little more grateful...

Got snow?

My niece... adorable...

My son... trowing a snowball at mom...

Potty training is NOT going well. We were starting to feel like we were scarring Andy for life and causing all sorts of Freudian trauma... so we are taking a break. Everyone is much happier.

Andy; stressed out (and cute) from potty training...

52 Cards a Year: Challenge Number Five

2008-01-31T02:52:00.000-06:00

One Layer... Any colors... any theme.

I am so into one layer cards lately. So there's no sketch... just a plan. One layer... stamps... multiple colors. Here are some samples to inspire you. Click on the images to enlarge them.

First a card featuring the new "Dreaming of Dots" by Lizzie Anne Designs. Buckaroo Blue, Sky Blue and then some little with dots made with my white Sakura Glaze Pen... a cool way to add some depth to an otherwise flat card.

New Kitchen Sink Stamps baby! This is "Love and Luck"... I also mixed in Playful Alphabet and Playful Alphabet Buddy.

This first card is stamped with Pretty in Pink, Regal Rose and Cool Caribbean. Clear stamps sure make this sort of design EASY-PEASY.

I love this card... Pretty in Pink, Real Red and Black... I did add a few little card candy "blings" by A Muse.

52 Cards a Year: Challenge Number Four... My Sample

2008-01-31T02:37:00.000-06:00

Just popping in to let you know I did my homework... Here is MY version of the last sketch challenge...

All Stamps by Kitchen Sink Stamps and they are the new stamps ya'll! (trying to sound like Britney S.) Paper: Whisper White, Real Red, Regal Rose and some polka dotted paper from the Target $1 spot (score!). Ink, Real Red, Regal Rose, Pretty in Pink, Versamark. Accessories: Glittered embossing powder (unknown maker).

How cool is it that you can BEND clear stamps?!? I slightly curved the XOXO sentiment to make the border around the circle.

I loved this sketch... it was a quick no-brainer.

By the way... what's up with Unfitney/Britishny (depending on if you read TMZ or Perez)... I don't get the British accent and buying a new Mercedes on the day of your intervention.

I also don't get why I care... but hell, she's my guilty pleasure. Along with Celebrity Rehab, Project Runway, Rock of Love 2....

And hey... LOST starts today!!! Hooray! I am still sad that Charlie's dead... anyone else?

One last thought... I miss SNL, 30 Rock and the Office. I wish the writers strike would end. I am dying to see some pre-presidential impersonations!

Scrappy Goodness

2008-01-28T00:20:00.000-06:00

Just some proof I have been scrapbooking! I am so in lust with this alphabet set from Kitchen Sink Stamps. It's it the coolest?

This is a 12X12 layout... I stamped my title in black... and used Copics to tint... American Crafts... made the stars... Stampin up! chipboard for the flower and circle... I used Love Elsie papers... and these cute little circle stickers from Borders of all places... they are super shiny and I love a good DOT.

See the corner of my doodled frame peeking into this picture? I doodled it on Velum with Sakura glaze pens... I am very happy with the result.

It's a little busy... but I suppose I'm an all or nothing sort of gal.

52 Cards a Year: Challenge Number Four AND a Giveaway!

2008-01-28T00:01:00.000-06:00

Patterned Paper as Color Combo: Thank You Card

Sorry this is a tad late... you survived the week without me right? :)

It's still week four... and I am in the zone. I have been stamping like crazy, finishing up projects for my Design assignments, and creating new projects. I was in a little stamping slump this week, so I am glad to be back in the swing! I will have LOTS of stuff for you to see this week!

This layout is super simple... and the color combo is an easy one. See that panel on the left? Use a patterned paper of your choice for that piece... and let that patterned paper be your color guide. I am thinking I need some thank you cards... you can never have too many thank you cards. :)

Stay tuned for my sample... I was too wrapped up in other projects to get to this sketch today.

I look forward to seeing your uploads! I will also be drawing a name from all the 52 Cards a Year participants from this month (drawing will be on Friday). The winner will get this fun collection of valentine stamps!

Thanks again to all of you for playing along!

Gak!

2008-01-25T00:02:00.000-06:00

Well... You know "gak" is never good. Here is tonight's bad news... my laptop's screen is busted. It happened during a Lego tower related incident. My husband would like you to know it is 60% my fault, 30% the Lego's fault and only 10% the fault of our precious Anderson.

Life will go on... potty training will continue (it's day three) and unfortunately so does the other crappy stuff that has been haunting me this month... hopefully things will all resolve to normalcy soon.

At least I have been stamping! It's a busy time of year for designers with CHA right around the corner. Top that off with a big scoop of Valentine's Day and it's almost as busy as Tax season is for accountants!

Now for the stamping...

I heart Valentine's Day big time... the red and pink... the chocolate... the card making... it's right up my alley. Over at justjohanna the design team was challenged to come up with a non-card project for Valentine's Day. Here's my take... a good excuse to buy cupcakes don't ya think?

Now I can't take credit for baking these cupcakes... they are from Herb's and they are delicious! Notice how there are only five???

The toppers are made with the Stampin' Up! Scalloped punch and coffee stirrer as a stem. All the images are from justjohanna and are colored with Copic markers.

Are you still waiting for a sketch??? I know... I know. I was on such a roll too. I promise we will have one soon. The week is not over yet! Please stay tuned, and forgive me for not visiting on all your cards and commenting. I thank you all SO MUCH for participating in my challenge!

Crappy Week

2008-01-24T04:47:00.000-06:00

Sorry everyone... I will be a bt delayed on the sketch this week... things are a bt crazy here... but rather than bore you with the details; here is a card from last weeks sketch! Hopefully I will be able to catch up tomorrow... I stamped a ton tonight!

A Muse Stamps are adorable... need I say more?

52 Cards a Year: Challenge Number Three

2008-01-16T09:57:00.000-06:00

Large Focal Image: Gray, Black, White and One Other Color: Thank You Card.

Sorry for the delay! I am having some allergy issues that are really knocking me out! You will also have to wait for my samples... I will make mine later today. :)

With this challenge we are focusing on the color Gray being a hot trend... Gray and Pink, Gray and Orange, Gray and Yellow... soft Gray, Charcoal Gray... but be sure to use GRAY and a splash of another color.

This sketch features a large focal image too... it's up to you how to fill that white space. The arrows do not literally need to be ARROWS... try flowers or hearts... maybe stars... brads, buttons or felt embellishments... just 3 of something that matches.

Post your creation on your blog or favorite forum... and don't forget to leave a link to your creation here!

And remember... there are no rules! If you don't want to make a thank you card that's ok... or you can incorporate some other colors if you feel like it... just try to stick with the basic concept so we can all be inspired!

A Valentine's Day Gift...

2008-01-13T02:19:00.000-06:00

Perfect for a teacher or co-worker... this little Conversation Heart Box!

I attached the full, unopened boxes of conversation hearts edge to side with sticky strip (red liner tape), then I made a belly band around the box to decorate it. I used a white coaster (but any chipboard/cardboard would work) for the bottom. I used sticky strip to secure that too.

I filled the box with candy, wrapped it in cellophane and tied it with a ribbon. Done!

All stamps by Lizzie Anne Designs.

Strawberry Topiaries: an Ode to Spring!

2008-01-11T00:01:00.000-06:00

Oh spring... where art thou? These strawberries from justjohanna make me long for crocuses and chirpy birds. A perfect image to color with a Copic marker don't you think?

This first card uses a perfect flocked paper... I don't know who makes it... it was in the bargain bin at Target. :)

Don't you love this sky blue with red and black? Delicious!

Sorry I don't have a lot of details today... if anyone has any questions about these cards I'd be happy to answer them tomorrow.

52 Cards a Year: Challenge Number Two

2008-01-09T00:01:00.000-06:00

Let the Ribbon Choose the Color: Color Combo Based on Ribbon: Valentine's Day Card.

This Challenge is a simple one. If you are like me, you have gobs of ribbon lying around just calling your name. Let's try to use some of it shall we?

When I design a card I tend to reach for stamps first, then paper, them embellishments. This time you will grab for ribbon first! Use the ribbon as the color muse for your card... all your other colors should match the ribbon... not just *complimentary but MATCHING. Stay tuned for a challenge specific to the complimentary color concept.

The heart shown here in the sketch is a total suggestion... feel free to use any focal image or shape. As usual (see rules for Challenge One) this does not have to be a Valentine's day card, but as a BONUS challenge (and an extra gold star for you) try to select ribbon that may not shout "Valentine's Day" to you... and as Tim Gunn would say; "make it work".

As usual please upload your designs to your blog your favorite gallery and post a link here so we can all see your stuff!

Have fun!

This little ditty features stamps by the uber-cool Elly. You can (and should) buy them HERE. My ribbon was from the $1 bin at Target (score!). Ink is Tempting Turquoise and Rose Red... and an orange Sakura Glaze pen. Paper is Whisper White, Tempting Turquoise and Summer Sun. I added a little glitter to the stamped heart... and a googly eye.

For the Rock Star in your life... The rock star ribbon is by Die Cuts with a view and was 50% off at my Archiver's (double score!). The red polka dotted ribbon was from Hobby lobby... I have no idea who makes it. Stamps by Amuse... brads by who knows who... stamped image was colored with a Copic marker. It's basic and cute!

*Complimentary colors are colors that are opposite from each other on the basic color wheel. Shown on the left is a simple 12 color wheel. On this wheel blues and oranges compliment each other, as do purples and yellows, and reds and greens. Complimentary colors are known to look good together... BUT as pigments they would not mix well. For example, if you mixed orange paint and blue paint you would get mud. On the other hand put orange paint NEXT to blue paint and the result will be visually appealing.

Happy Cupcake to You!

2008-01-08T03:51:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday to all you New Year babies out there... here's a little something I came up with for a special B-day card. I bought these candles probably 2 years ago just to make a card like this... and well... I never did! Then I received this wonderful Stamp Set from Kitchen Sink Stamps; Happy Birthday Cupcake and BAM! Inspiration hit me!

Can you mail it? Probably not... BUT it would be perfect to give by hand. The scalloped focal image is framed by a cupcake sleeve... and it was a bit too large, so I trimmed it up with my coluzzle circle cutter.

Paper: Surprise Sprinkles by KI Memories (double sided), Tempting Turquoise, whisper white and a cupcake sleeve. Ink: Brilliance Platinum Planet, Pink Passion. Accessories: Turquoise polka-dot ribbon by unknown maker, Birthday candle, Iridescent ice EP.

Oh, Valentine's Day....

2008-01-07T02:12:00.001-06:00

Yay! The next BIG holiday is all about Love and Chocolate! Among my favorite Valentine's Day stamps is this set "Heart to Heart" from Lizzie Anne Designs. You can't beat a set that has the basic heart thing happening...and then some fun cool images like a heart with wings.

Oh... Before I get into the deets on these cards... be sure to check out the new releases that came out from Lizzie Anne today! Some super cute sets! I ordered up Dreaming of Dots, Out of this World the pirate and cupcake singles... I love the set "Far East" too. Check out their new look at the website too... They even have a new Chat Forum! Good times!

On to the cards...

You don't get more basic than this card... Pink and red stamped on white. I used my Key Tag Punch to make a peek-a-boo window for the sentiment.

This project is a tad more involved... The inspiration for this card was antique quilts. First I used my Scor-Pal to make a 1/2 grid on the card front. Then after a lot of sponging and aging with a series of brown inks I stamped the hearts with Real Red. The rest of this card is really about the tag... the stitching was done by first piercing the word in with my piercing tool, then I sewed the embroidery thread in by hand. I also added a little stitch through my twill tape too give it a little punch.

Why I Rock...

2008-01-04T05:02:00.000-06:00

Because I made my own blog banner... that' s why! Check it out!

Don't ask me HOW I did it... I really have no idea.

Doodle Frames...

2008-01-03T04:37:00.000-06:00

Here are some fun justjohanna cards. These are from my "doodle frame" period. :)

I drew these frames with a black sakura glaze pen. The glaze pen gives a raised, almost embossed effect... which I think gives my doodles have an "I-meant-to-do-that" sort of look.

The inked images were tinted with Copic Markers.

Why do owls always look like they are about to start some trouble?

52 Cards a Year: Challenge Number One!

2008-01-02T00:01:00.000-06:00

Simple Horizontal Stripes: Black or Gray and White: Birthday Card.

Recently at a family gathering I had occasion to visit with my uncle; J.D., a talented artist living in the Austin area. We were chatting about painting and where to start if you are thinking of diving in on your own... or getting back into painting. He suggested buying a blank canvas, a gallon of white latex paint and a gallon of black... and going to town... not worrying about color; only design, composition and texture. I think this will be well applied to card making too!

So that's your assignment in a nutshell. Using only black, white and gray tones, create a birthday card. I will simplify the assignment further by adding a super basic sketch; this horizontal line design. 6-8 lines of varying tones and shades of blacks, grays and whites... use patterned papers, solids, ribbons, stamped strips of paper... all in various thicknesses, to create your design. Incorporate a birthday related sentiment if you can.

Here is the sketch...

Here are my samples:

This first card uses all Kitchen Sink Stamps. It's pure black and white... and features lots of bold patterns and hard textures. My own personal criticism of this card is that it's a tad top heavy... that bold image in the top stripe sort of draws my eye away from the sentiment... which I think needed to be the focus of this card. This is actually why I decided to add the element of depth and texture close to the sentiment with the addition of the brads... which absolutely helped.

I really like the variety of patterns in this design, and how the black and white color ties everything together.

This design was created with justjohanna images. I used a lot more gray in this design... using black only for the scroll at the bottom and for the sentiment. Choosing the darker color for the base of the card helps keep in grounded and using black for the sentiment helps to make it pop. In turn, balancing the black with a light toned gray and a charcoal gray helps the lightest tone to also become a focal point... which is why the birds also stand out even though they are the lightest of the images. Of course placing the birds toward the center of the card also helps draw your eye to them.

I also used negative space to draw the eye around the card. Leaving white space around the sentiment and the birds brings the images forward, even though this is a one layer card.

Lastly... this card created with images by Lizzie Anne Designs. I used mainly grays and vanilla in this card. Only the stamping was done in black. You will also note I created the design in a horizontal layout rather than vertical.

It's easy to spot the focal point of this card; placing the party hat/gift patterned stripe in the center, making it significantly wider than the other stripes and matching the paper to the sentiment really helps to make them pop. Plus, I used only one patterned paper on this card, so there is not much to distract your eye from the focal images. Notice the gray dots I used in the focal image stripe? They were stamped with a pencil eraser, and added because I felt that there was too much negative space... especially because I was only shading the hats and gifts... not coloring them.

The Challenge Rules: This being the first assignment... let's chat about rules. There are no rules! Feel free to mix it up; make a card of a different theme... make a vertical sketch horizontal... whatever you please. The goal of these challenges is to help you expand your creative card making, to motivate you to try something new each week and to encourage you to share your work.

That's right... you must share! But don't worry if you don't complete the assignment this week... as soon as you create your card for this, or any assignment, share a link to it here in the comments. You can post it on your blog, or on your favorite message board.... just share a link with everyone here whenever you decide to jump in and play!

I hope you will join me... I am really excited about this series for 2008... if just to keep me thinking outside the box!

Have fun!

Welcome 2008... Yada, Yada, Yada...

2008-01-01T04:01:00.001-06:00

I don't know why the phrases "blah, blah, blah" and "yada, yada, yada" seem to fit so well with the new year... maybe I am a tad twisted. Anywhoo... Happy New Year!

I love how the Kitchen Sink Stamps are so graphic and contemporary. I am constantly wanting to use them for one layer designs... in fact, I often have to push myself to add layers. In this case I added depth with color, image layering and unique embellishments... all wonderful substitutes for using papers to create depth and textures.

Ink: Brilliance Rocket Red (for extra "pop" and to make the red layer super SOLID), SU! inks; Brilliance Blue, Gable Green, Yo-Yo Yellow. Stamped on a White Card from Paper Source. Accessories: Jingle Bell, Silver Cord, Red Organza Sheer Ribbon.

BIG NEWS: I have a 2008 Challenge for you (and me!)... I will be offering one sketch, color combo and theme per week... each Wednesday. I will also be discussing some basic concepts of design, composition and color. If you complete each challenge you will have 52 cards made, and hopefully you will learn a bit more about your own style and improve your design skills! So please check back tomorrow for the first fun challenge for 2008! Beginners, non-stampers and non-card-makers welcome! I hope you will all play along!

I wish you all a healthy, peaceful and joyful 2008.

A Family New Year's Card

2007-12-31T05:12:00.000-06:00

Here's a little Card with Kitchen Sink Stamps. Something simple and pretty...

To be quite honest, you would not be able to mail these in the lined envelope I created; with the ribbon and all... but just in case you are among the .25% of people that have their New Years Cards hand delivered by courier... here is the fancy envelope.

The Envelopes are from Paper Source... they are lovely... 4 1/8" x 9 1/2" and made of a shimmery paper. Referred to on the PS website as a #10 Open End Envelope in Stardream Quartz. They would make wonderful wedding card envelopes... or envelopes for hand delivered cards. Of course you could mail them... without the ribbon.

I wish I could tell you who made this paper... to be honest I have no idea. But it's a sky blue and charcoal tone. The card base is Sky Blue. The ink is Adirondack Black. The ribbon is by Basic Grey. The stamp sets are Playful Numbers and Never a Loss for Words. Don't you live the "blah, blah blah" sentiment on top? I think at a glance it just looks like a pretty scroll pattern.

I also want to add that the photograph is in black and white, not blue and white. In person it looks great... I guess it's just one of those things that doesn't photograph well.

May Old Acquaintance Be Forgot...

2007-12-30T04:35:00.001-06:00

When it comes to themes for New Years cards the topics are relatively limited. So while this might be a tad obscure... and a phrase you'd never actually say... well... it's one of the few phrases availible to announce the new year.

And, for those of you that follow the saga of my life... I survived sledding... but only because I didn't go. I decided instead that 2 hours of alone time would be healthier for me.

Here's the scoop on the card; All stamps are by Kitchen Sink Stamps. I used the Score-Pal to create the grid pattern; 1 1/5" squares scored 4X4" creates a 6X6" card. I stamped the base font in White Craft ink (SU!), and then stamped over top with VersaMagic Chalk ink in Sea Breeze, Pink Grapefruit, Persimmon and Key Lime. The card base is Kraft (by SU!). I used Groovy Guava paper behind the punched out squares.

More Inspiration!

2007-12-29T14:23:00.000-06:00

As you may know... I design for several Stamp companies. I thought I'd just remind everyone that each of these companies has a design team, and a wonderful gallery you can look at too! Pls you can search at Splitcoaststampers for the images of each individual company.

Enjoy!

Kitchen Sink Stamps Design Team:
Paula Bloom
Nicole Cooke
Tracy Durcan
Tammy Hershberger
Dee Jackson
Erika Martin
Julie Masse
Sarah Moore
Rebecca Oehlers
Lisa Silver
Lori Tecler
Jan Tinklenberg

Kitchen Sink Gallery

Kitchen Sink Stamps DT on Splitcoaststampers

Lizzie Anne Designs Design Team:
Cambria Turnbow
Jeanne Streiff
Jen Allen
Joslyn Nielson
Julia Stainton
Kendra Wietstock
Kirsten DuBosque
Lauren Meader
Lindsey Botkin
Lori Craig
Michele Boyer
Michelle Wooderson
Sarah Moore
Sherry Cheever
Tricia Ulberg
Trudee Sauer
Zena Hoegger

Lizzie Anne Sketchbook

Lizzie Anne Designs DT on Splitcoaststampers

justjohanna Design Team:

Andrea Peterson
Barb Pritschau
Cathrine St. Clair
Charity Hassel
Debbie Scheunemann
Deborah March
Dianne McInrue
Eleanor Abril
Emilia Hsu
Erin Kellogg
Godelieve Tijskens
Heather Grow
Julie Prichard
Kathi Rerek
Kerry Urbatch
Kim Frantz
Kim Hutchinson
Kim Schofield
Mandy Cheshire
Marieke Vermeulen
Marnie Bushmole
Rina
Sarah Moore
Teresa Abajo
Tracy Durcan

justjohanna Gallery One

justjohanna Gallery Two, just click on each artists icon under the name to view their art

justjohanna Stamps on Splitcoaststampers

Brrr!!!

2007-12-29T02:39:00.000-06:00

Ok... actual CLUMPS of snow fell today! I think we got about 6 inches... and it's the good stuff; just right for sledding... so that's exactly what we are going to do today!

So if you never hear from me again; that's how I died.... sledding.

The snow is very inspirational... here are a couple winter cards for you... all stamps are from Kitchen Sink Stamps.

Full Card Recipe HERE.

So has anyone recovered from the holidays yet? I think I will be fully recovered after January 2nd. Heck, I still have leftover prime rib to consume... and as far as I am concerned you aren't done with the holidays until all the food has been eaten or has spoiled.

Baby it's Cold Outside!

2007-12-19T03:58:00.001-06:00

I just can't seem to stop thinking about snowflakes! And this set from Kitchen Sink Stamps isn't helping any! Snow Flurry is such a cute and versatile set...

And here is another confession... this is the first time I have used the Stickles I have owned for over a year!

Paper: Shimmery White, Bashful Blue, Brushed Silver. Ink: Night of Navy, Bashful Blue. Accessories: Stickles, White organdy ribbon, 3D "dew drop" like embellishment by unknown maker.

Christmas Q and A

2007-12-17T12:44:00.000-06:00

I saw this on someone else's blog and thought it was fun...

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? I aim to use wrapping paper, but every year I end up using gift bags at the last minute!

2. Real tree or artificial? Artificial. We have a cat... I can just see her drinking the water out of the tree stand... ick!

3. When do you put up the tree? I still have time right?

4. When do you take the tree down? Before Valentine's Day! :)

6. Favorite gift received as a child? A pink, retroish Boom-Box... it was a cassette player... pre-CD players... Yes, I am that old.

7. Do you have a Nativity scene? Yes... I am not at all a religious person... but I think it's important for my son to be educated about all the major religions. So yes, I have a Fisher Price nativity set. I also have a menorah.

8. Hardest person to buy for? This year... maybe my husband, because he wants NOTHING.

9. Easiest person to buy for? My son... I have to restrain myself at this point to stop buying.

10. Worst Christmas Gift you ever received? My sister once gave me stretch-mark cream... and she was so miffed when I didn't get excited about it that she took it back!

11. Mail or email Christmas cards? oh... I want to say mail... I don't think you can email a Christmas card. What would Emily Post say? But I doubt I will get cards out in time! I think this year I might be mailing Valentines instead.

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? It's a Wonderful Life... or A Christmas Story.

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? In October.

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? If by "recycled" you mean "re-gifted"... Heck ya!

15. Favorite things to eat at Christmas? As far as sweets go; my grandma's Melt-a-way Cookies. As far as savory foods go;Prime Rib with yorkshire pudding please.

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Tiny colored balls.

17. Favorite Christmas song or album? "A Christmas Gift For You from Phil Spector". It's so great... Darlene Love, The Ronettes, The Crystals; what's not to love. (besides Phil Spector being so creepy nowadays!)

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay HOME.

19. Can you name all of Santa’s reindeer? Do I really need to prove it? Ok, fine... Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen... and Rudolph... and Olive.

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? An pretty hand crafted angel my mother gave me.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Morning. How can you open gifts before Santa comes?

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? I don't know... I love it all!

23. What is the “silliest” family tradition you do, or miss doing? My husband's family has the "Christmas Eve Gift". It started when my husband and sister-in-law were kids... the first kid to be the first on Christmas Eve (12:01 AM on 12/24) to shout "Christmas Eve Gift!" would get a special gift; usually something silly. Now we actually call my in-laws to try to win!

24. Ugliest Christmas Decoration ever invented? I refuse to answer, as it's likely that I own and display some of the ugliest decorations ever invented.

25. Which looks best, theme trees or homey trees? I have a homey tree... but a theme tree can be cool too.

26. Gingerbread or sugar cookies? Sugar... with royal icing.

Craft Critique Read Today...

2007-12-14T03:07:00.000-06:00

Be sure to read Craft Critique today for my holiday wish list and favorite gift ideas... plus a fun giveaway!

Can We Think About Valentine's Day Yet?

2007-12-13T11:20:00.000-06:00

I am determined to get a jump start on Valentine's Day. It takes a close second in my "favorite holiday" list, next to Halloween. Here is a little card I created using the Lizzie Anne Designs set "Heart to Heart".

A little tip about the glittered bracket/frame... I used a chipboard bracket (unknown maker) that had a self adhesive backing. I wasn't keen on the gray color of the bracket, and it had a glossy coating too, making it difficult to adhere glitter to. So I just pealed off the self adhesive backing and dumped on the glitter! Talk about easy! I might just start looking for self adhesive chipboard now just so I can glitter it with ease... I often see the off season colors of self adhesive chipboard discounted at my local craft stores.

Paper: Pink Passion, DCWV Rockstar Collection. Ink: Black Adirondack Ink, Versamark. Accessories: Arrow brad by unknown maker, Ribbon by DCWV, Bracket by Unknown Maker, Glitter by Martha Stewart Living, Sticky Dots by Joanne Crafts.

Winners!

2007-12-13T11:06:00.000-06:00

A big thanks to all my regular readers. You are the reason I keep posting! :)

The winners of my random drawing are...

From my post on 12/11

Connie said...: This is GORGEOUS! What a great idea to use the oval punches!

From my post on 11/5

Tami said...: Your etsy shop is going to rock! I love what you are making with your bind it all!

From my post on 11/23

Debbie/StudioBeeCreations said...: Bless your heart!!...and your aching back!...so glad to hear you had "support" for the holiday!

Thanks again to you all! please email me at sarah@stampstars.com with your addresses and I will get your holiday paper kits out to you!

A Break from the Holidays

2007-12-12T14:04:00.001-06:00

With all this Christmas Crafting, sometimes you just have to take a break... put away the red and green and bust out something new. So in that spirit... allow me to show you these fun justjohanna cards!

All stamps in these projects are by justjohanna.
I love these jellyfish... they are almost ethereal in a way. Stamped in Black Adirondack, I painted the jellies and the background with a variety of watercolors, reinkers and clear Sakura Stardust pens on Shimmery White paper. Other paper colors are Basic Black and Cool Caribbean. The black polka doted ribbon is by an unknown maker.

I think this paper is by Heidi Grace for Fiskars... But I am not positive... sorry! Card base is Sahara Sand. Other papers are Chocolate Chip and whisper white. Chocolate polka dot ribbon by an unknown maker.

Don't you love this polka dot paper? It's an origami paper by Paper Source. I shaded the chandelier and colored the owl with my Copic markers. Paper colors are Summer Sun, Coral and Whisper White. I also used Stampin' Up! Chocolate Taffeta Ribbon.

My Paper Pine Cone

2007-12-11T00:37:00.000-06:00

Inspired by all the wonderful paper trees and ornaments I have been seeing in "scrapland" and "stampville"... I thought I'd create a paper pine cone.

I wish I could tell you who makes this paper... I bought it at Target. It has a wonderful, flocked scroll/vine pattern. A 6" tall Styrofoam egg serves as the base. I used my Stampin' Up! oval punch to make the pine cone scales. I partially folded each oval to help give some dimension and tapered the size of the scales to a smaller oval close to the top of the egg. Small pins hold the scales in place.

Skating Anyone?

2007-12-08T14:42:00.000-06:00

I wish I could recall where I first saw this idea... using paper clips as the blade of a skate... I just love it! The skate is easy enough to make. I just folded a rectangle of Confetti White paper in half and traced my design on, lining up the bottom of the skate with the fold of the paper. Then you just slip the paper clip in place and glue the fold shut.

I sponged SU! Close to Cocoa ink on the edge of the skates to antique them and "laced" them shut with Linen Thread. The scalloped circle is antiqued with White Craft Ink and then I dotted the scallops with a clear Sakura Glaze pen. All stamps are Kitchen Sink Stamps; "Never a Loss for Words", and "Snow Flurry" were the sets I used.

Paper: SU! Kraft, Confetti White, Bashful Blue and Chocolate Chip. Ink: Close to Cocoa, Chocolate Chip and White Craft. Accessories: Clear Sakura Glaze Pen, Paper clips, Linen Thread, flat back pearls by unknown maker.

More on Christmas

2007-12-07T11:13:00.000-06:00

Just a helpful hint for those of you who might be new to "Sarah and the Stampstars!" If you'd like to see more Holiday stuff you can easily check out LAST year's Christmas related posts by clicking on the Tag for Christmas... or just click HERE.

Matroshka Card

2007-12-07T01:32:00.001-06:00

Matroshka, or Russian Stacking Dolls are suddenly popping up all over craft-land. Just check out all these great Etsy items under the tag "Russian Doll". I decided to try my hand at the Matroshka trend with a papercraft translation.

I used the above photo as inspiration for my work... especially for how to "paint" the face. The card base design was easy enough. After I folded the card to size I drew in one side of the shape, cut it out, and used the piece I trimmed off as a template to trace the opposite side of the doll. The circles for the belly and face were formed with various punches and my colluzle.

The base of the card is Kraft Paper, and confetti white was used for the belly and face. The red paper is actually a flocked paper by an unknown maker. The stamps used in this project are from the set "Heart to Heart" and "Designer Dots" by Lizzie Anne Designs. I used Night of Navy and Real Red ink.

The face was drawn with a variety of SU! markers, the white "painted" look to the face was achieved with a White Sakura Glaze pen. It's sort of cool how it picked up the color of the ink underneath... not a look that would always be desired, but it works well with this project. I especially like how it changed colors on the flowers. It has that look of the real hand painted Matroshka. Plus it's 3D... ya gotta love a touchable card.

And a reminder... as a little gift to all my regular readers... especially those who leave comments... I have three little holiday stamping kits put together... Some adorable Christmas $1 stamps, KI Memories 8X8 papers and Christmas ribbons. I thought it'd be fun to pick three comments randomly from all the posts in November and December... and on the 12th I will pick three of them randomly to send a little gifty! You will receive them in plenty of time for Christmas... they would be perfect to make gift tags with! So feel free to leave on a comment on any post on December or November to participate. It's not too late! Again... I will select the winners on 12/12. Be sure to check back to see if you won!

Thanks for reading!

The Weather Outside is FRIGHTFUL!

2007-12-06T02:14:00.000-06:00

I am snowed in! Perhaps I am a wimp... I have lived in the Chicagoland area most of my life... you'd think I'd be used to it by now. I have 7-8 inches of snow outside my window. I was unable to snap a good picture for you today, as I didn't want to get out of my jammies... but trust me; it's enough snow to make you want to stay indoors, drink hot cocoa and make soup.

So that is exactly what I did!

I also made a card...

I just love these Christmas Skull images by justjohanna. The card is colored with Copic Markers and embellished with A Muse Card candy "bling".

A Holiday "Peep-Pimp"

2007-12-06T01:54:00.000-06:00

If you have been a reader for a while then you know... I loves to pimp my peeps. My lifelong pal Shannon has a wonderful Etsy shop; Boogiebead... and since you are ALL buying all handmade items this season (right?!?) you MUST check her out.

My favorite Boogiebead items are the holiday bracelets; they are so cute, the beads she uses are adorable! You can trust that the items are well made and that Shannon ALWAYS stands behind her work. This bracelet sells for just $14.95

But now Shannon also has a swanky line that is very sophisticated and "high-end". She uses Hill Tribe Silver, so the purchase of her work helps support Thai Artisans. How pretty is this necklace... and for UNDER $30!

Please help support artists and buy handmade items this Christmas!

I Be Scrappin'

2007-12-05T01:26:00.001-06:00

So these new Kitchen Sink Stamps are making me feel all Scrappy! Scrapbooking is how I initially got into papercrafts... and while I feel that card making is my new and permanent love... I have a soft spot in my heart for the scrapped page. I also have BOXED of pictures that constantly call out to me; "put me on paper!"

I love this KSS alphabet... it's actually two stamp sets layered; Playful Alphabet and Playful Alphabet Basics... and because they are clear stamps they layering process is super easy! And the font is so cool and universal... I know I will love it for a LONG time.

I love this picture of my Son Anderson... this was taken at a wonderful Art School/Gallery In North Carolina (I forget the name!) The leaves were perfect, the light was ideal and Andy was running around the yard loving the weather and I thought this bright Orange Chair just yelled "AUTUMN!"

All stamps by Kitchen Sink Stamps except dots which are created with a pencil eraser.Paper; Sahara Sand Base Paper, Patterned Papers by American Crafts. Ink; Really Rust (SU!), Sky Blue, Sunflower, Chocolate, Graphite Black (Brilliance Dew Drops). Accessories: Wide Black Grosgrain by unknown maker.

One last thing... as a little gift to all my regular readers... especially those who leave comments... I have three little holiday stamping kits put together... Some Christmas $1 stamps, KI 8X8 papers and some Christmas ribbons. I thought it'd be fun to pick three comments randomly from all the posts in November and December... and on the 12th I will pick three of them randomly to send a little gifty! You will receive them in plenty of time for Christmas... they would be perfect to make gift tags with! So feel free to leave on a comment on any post on December or November to participate. It's not too late! Again... I will select the winners on 12/12. Be sure to check back to see if you won!

Thanks for reading!