I think we are always on the hunt for the perfect package for little treats.

Do you have a long list of people you want or need to give a little something to this holiday season? Even if you don’t have a long list, you are going to love this treat idea. It is sure to make people OH! and AH! over the simplest of gifts, any time of year.

There really is such a thing as “It’s the thought that counts!”, so why not let everyone know you are thinking of them, in a way that is affordable?

 I have just the quick treat holder for you!

Did you know that if you purchased the Lolli-pop Along © Template, you have an entire new use of JUST the base template? Let me show you how.

I’m certain as the years pass, the list of people in our life grows, but our finances don’t! With 3 kids now in school-and some of the extra services they get, I like to acknowledge everyone who impacts  my children’s lives. Like everyone else in the world, we are on a tight budget, so this year (like the past 3 or 4) I am mainly making gifts for all our family and friends.

I love gourmet chocolate, and it can make a really nice gift. You don’t need to spend a fortune on it either.

I whipped up 16 of these gifts, and it only cost me $1.20 each!

I went the the Lindt Chocolate store and purchased 2 large bags of truffles (48 in each bag). Regular price $12. But if you purchase 2 bags they were on Sale for $10. So I purchased 2. That is 96 truffles for $20. Which means they are 0.20 cents per truffle.

 My little treat holder, holds 6, so I was able to get 16 gifts, for a mere $20 purchase. That means I spent $1.20 for each gift!!

Side view-

I want people to know I appreciate all they do, but not break the bank doing it. I think I accomplished that this year, for much cheaper than I normally do, and without having to bake a thing!

Also consider that many people have “food issue’s”. Meaning people are a bit leery of food prepared from someone’s home. They have no idea how clean your kitchen is! Packaged items are always a great way to go, and if they hate these truffles a re-gift is definitely OK.

So lets get started shall we?

Print Lollipop Along ©base on white cardstock.

Cut and score bottom as directed.

At end panels, score at 1/2 inch from edge. (As seen in photo)

Then stamp sentiment from Snowfall Additions in right corner in Spring Rain Ink

Use long rectangle nestability (or a ruler) to trace a rectangle window, on front panel.

Use a hobby blade to cut out window.

Stamp a piece of acetate, in white StazOn with snowflake cluster from Snowfall set. While wet, sprinkle on glitter of choice.

Adhere window to inside of holiday-Lollipop Along ©  window 

Then put sides of box base together.

Photo of -Window in place, box together

Now add a little white bag filler for “snow”. Then fill the box.

Now inside this box you can easily fit 6 Lindt Chocolate Truffles!

The snowman ones are milk chocolate, with white chocolate centers! YUM!

Make sure you have the snowmen turned to the front of the window.

It’s a perfect treat to let someone know you are thinking of them this winter season. Plus its easy on the wallet!

Now for the tag-

You want to use the snowflake punch , and punch a shape from Spring Rain cardstock.

Stamp the snowflake image onto punched snowflake using the Glue Pad, then sprinkle on glitter.

Now layer a smaller punched snowflake from vellum cardstock (mine is Martha Stewart), and add a bling sticker to the center.

Then punch a hole in one corner of the snowflake, and string it through your tied ribbon.

Isn’t it the perfect little tag?

Everything is better with a little bling.

So there you have another treat idea using My Timeless Templates ©! There is still time to make those last minute gifts

After Christmas I plan on sharing my Valentine’s version of this idea

Thank you for checking in ♥

Good grief! I can’t believe its the 15th of December!!

We have had power loss on & off here due to bad weather. That means no lights, and no hot water or heat. NO EMAIL or INTERNET. So if you have contacted me, and I have not responded-I will get to it.

What is worse is my children have all juggled the stomach bug, and I am the designated bucket holder :C I have only slept a few hours total since Wednesday night. Then all the PTI excitement, that always gets me So much to do before the holiday approaches. I also need to re-evaluate my responsibilities and goals for the New Year! Reflection is never easy. I do enjoy the fresh start the new year brings. OK before I get way off focus-lets move on.

We have a light design load this month. THANK GOODNESS! I shared MANY samples with you over the last few days (just scroll down if you missed any) and samples using My Timeless Templates. I do have ONE more to share (for now anyway! LOL!) and a few samples with the New Releases. I have so enjoyed the excitement during the countdown with my templates Thanks for all the support and kind words. I can’t wait to see what everyone does with the new templates. I have so enjoyed hearing how your holidays were made easier , and you got to take some time to get creative this year, saving some $!

 Now to the samples.

Valentines was a VERY hard switch when you are really preparing for Christmas, but I truly love that holiday-so I had fun. Plus the sets rock, so how can you NOT be inspired?

First up I will share my card projects

Tree of love

OK love the colors-and the layout.

When I saw Heart Prints I just fell in LOVE! Seriously. I have a million ideas that flooded my head, but only so much time. When I saw the swirly flower pattern, it reminded me of a tree. So I decided to go with that, and stamped it in spring moss, then rocked & rolled it in ripe avocado. There was my tree top.

I used the solid trunk from Father Knows Best ( I really love that set!), and my tree was born. I used the little “cherry hearts” from Lisa’s set Love Songs, for my tree fruit.

Now my “grass” is the solid heart from the Heart Prints in avocado ink. I liked using all the little elements to create a cute scenery.

I used aonare piercing template for the swirly border, and free pierced the little hearts. I used a paint pen to fill in the color of the hearts. Cute touch I thought.

I also love the little buttons. I enjoy fitting buttons into my creations in fun ways.

The sentiment is from Heart Prints Sentiments. LOVING that set too!

So much so that I went on and make this card using it-

In dreams and in love-layering

Now again this card used 3 sets! I love that.

The Heart Prints Sentiments , heart prints (the layered heart image), and Lisa’s set -Love Songs has the elements to spell out “love”. I wanted to be different in what I used from her set (trust me I made more stuff but am waiting to share ) so I chose to use the sentiment and her words to create a different look, and show how awesome ALL PTI’s set co-ordinate together!

Now when I saw the layered heart image it reminded me of a cookie cutter! I also love the solid floral heart image, so I stamped it 5 times in poppy, avocado, berry, and black-then cut and layered them all to create a cool look! I do have the heart punches, and they ROCK! I used the largest of them here.

Now since we did share peeks through the week this is all I had to share for the release that you had not seen.

I do however have another template idea (and more to come) to share today.

A new and improved snowman soup

How many times have you given or received Snowman Soup?

If you don’t know what that is, then I will fill you in. Its basically a packet of cocoa, and marshmallows (maybe candy cane or candy pieces of chocolate to add), packaged up for a gift.

Its a very cute and popular gift in the holiday/winter season. Well, I wanted to step up my snowman soup gift giving to a more “gourmet” style presentation!

Wouldn’t you know that my newest template-the Lolli-pop Along© is PERFECT for such a gift

SO I created my base for my lolli-pop along using shimmery white cardstock.

I punched 2 holes for my Marshmallow Melts stick stirrers. I find that the Crop-a-dile big bite is a perfect companion for this template . Reaches in perfectly.

I then cut a long slot (using a ruler and finger hobby blade) to fit my 2 packets of cocoa mix (behind the skewers).

This has 2 packets of Swiss Miss Cocoa. You could get more expensive cocoa, but this matched my project and I had it on hand.

I then made some gourmet chocolate covered peppermint marshmallow stick stirrers. I had only ever seen these in candy shoppes so I tried my own, and it worked.

How to make Marshmallow Melts

Get some wooden BBQ skewers (cut down a little bit to fit my project).

 Put on 2 large marshmallows.

Melt some chocolate wafers (found in baking section of Michaels), and quickly drizzled all over the marshmallows. Be fast as they could REALLY melt.

Then lay the chocolate covered mallows on wax paper.

Sprinkle on crushed candy canes. YUM!!

Let them cool on wax paper, and then you are ready  to go!

Now to put them in a gift set. Once they were in place I adhered some of this Marabou (? is that what thats called?! LOL!) for some faux snow! It is a nice finished detail I think.

My base is tied in with the polka dot poppy ribbon, tied through a punched snowflake.

My wrap was made using acetate. I stamped my snowflakes from  the Snowfall set, in white Stazon and sprinkled on some red glitter before it dried.

I used snowflakes for my top closure, with some bling brads. The handle is cardstock.

I made my tag using the 2008 Holiday Tag Collection, making my mug 3D.

The snow man was stamped, and cut out. Layered with clear glue dot.

A quick and easy, new presentation of an old favorite.

So that is it for today. I hope you enjoyed the release, and all the countdown projects. I’d love to hear what your favorite thing I shared over this last week was

I hope you all have a super start to the week!

OK if you read my blog even some of the time, you may know how much I LOVE packaging up test tubes filled with whatever I can cram into them I just love little containers of all kinds. I always have, since I was a girl.

My templates have provided me with some amazing presentations of those ideas, and this month is no exception. I am beyond in love with my projects today! You have no idea. I truly hope you get inspired by them as well.

As a SAHM, with this economy, living on ONE fixed income, we don’t always have a lot of $$ to get gifts for people we want to. I’m endlessly thinking of ways to acknowledge people, without breaking the bank, and not making it “chincy”. Like I just threw it all together. I want people to SEE the thought I put into their gifts, and I think my templates definitely help me accomplish that, and taking not so much actual TIME to create That is what I REALLY love about my templates Fast, functional and affordable. Since you use them limitlessly, its such a huge savings. No guess work everytime you make a 3D item, priceless.

So I am over the moon with excitement to tell you that Papertrey Ink is now going to be carrying the silver cap test tubes, and that they fit PERFECTLY with My Timeless Templates!!!!!!!!!!

The silver top tubes will be sold in sets of 3, and they are also going to be carrying the square plastic tubes in sets of 3 as seen HERE!! Is that not exciting news?

Can life be any sweeter?

So let’s start with how they fit with my Lollipop Along © first. Remember this won’t be available to download until the 15th. But when it is live, you can purchase it, and get it INSTANTLY!!! You can start making gifts at 12am on the 15th!

OK I feel like the “exclaimation mark” Queen today. Can you tell I’m so excited? If you were standing in from of me, and I were talking to you, you would probably ask me to be quiet. I know I also tend to talk loudly too when I’m excited. Loud and fast. Its a Vigeant trait (my dad’s side of the family).

Cafe To Go! Go!

You KNOW how much I LOVE coffee. I do still drink it, but in less quantity, and now without real sugar and fat free cream. So, I had to do a coffee themed set with a new found product I love! Pink & brown are like my favorite combo-so this was a perfect set.

Now see the tubes. They are an exact fit! The lollipop along base holds 5 of the PTI tubes perfectly, so each one can be on display.

In these tube, there is 5 tsp of General Foods Inernational Sugar Free French Vanilla Coffee Mix. SUPER yummy.  You technically only need 4 tsp, but I like it sweeter!! And it fills the tubes more. All you do is add 8oz of boiling water, and you are ready to go!

I found some uber cool-make your own mix recipes HERE! There is quite the variety, and they all sound YUM-A-LICIOUS!

So if you have many people, this may be the way to go. Maybe even a $5 limit Yankee swap?

I used sweet blush cardstock to print my base template. I added a cute little chocolate piece to where the tubes insert for some interest, then cut my little circles for my tubes. I used the smallest circle on my Coluzzle circle template for this package. Then I put in some fun filler!

I created my wrap using acetate. I stamped my acetate bottom with the polka dot basics stamp, in  white StazOn. I purchase mine in bulk at Staples. I get like 100 sheets for $20 (I believe) Its been a while since I had to buy them. They are just window transparencies. Basically for use with classroom projectors.

For my tubes-I used Holiday Treats, as it pairs perfectly for this project with Warm Happiness. I wanted them to be a little fancy schmancy, so I stamped my labels to match, and wrapped them around the tops. This is quick and easy, and adds so much detail.

My tag is pretty straight forward. I think its a nice addition to the design. Stamped my sentiment (it technically should have said coffee, but I THOUGHT this was cocoa mix! Blond moment.)

View from the top-Just add water

That was also done stamping the labels, then punching them out with my 3/4 inch circle punch.

That is truly all you do! Pour it in the cup-add your 8oz of boiling water, and you have super yummy coffee with friends

As you can see I used ribbon for my handle. Easy peasy. Just grab the handle and go.

Who wouldn’t love that? I think its just so cute. Plus you can get the kids in on it Let them mix the ingredients up and use a funnel to pour in the mix.

OK moving on-

Now for a super way you can use the tubes with the Desk Top Stationery holder!

I call this Spa in a Box.

Supplies-

Desk top organizer template

Stamps- Floral Frenzy

Ink-Sweet Blush, Spring Moss, summer sunset, the dark pink – its a Pallette ink pad that is that close to Raspberry Fizz by ribbon comparison

Cardstock-Sweet Blush, spring moss, select white

Raspberry Fizz patterned paper

Ribbon-sweet blush stitched grosgrain, sweet blush twill

clear cardbox, Labels nestability, nestability circle, dew drop, test tube, May Road frosted flowers

Who doesn’t love to be pampered right? This is a gift for all ages too. I always make things I would personally love to receive. When you buy one larger product of each item, you can repackage it in many tubes, for several gifts. This gives that person a day or two of pampering.

Look how PERFECT the tubes fit in this box, which is flipped up side down. You can easily fit 4, if you want to use dividers. I also believe 5 fit snuggly.

Is this not SO pretty, and professional/store bought looking? Only YOU had fun creating it.

I have 4 tubes-Body lotion, body wash, bath salts, 2 lip glosses (2 fit in 1 tube), and a face spa packet! I used my label maker to mark what is in each tube (in case you are wondering how the receiver will know what is in each) The face packet inspired my color combo for this gift!

Now for the clear cover insert!

Clear cover insert:

Cut off the just the back panel of the card box.

Now cut down the card box to about 5 inches.

Insert box front, into box

This step is optional, as they stay in place just fine without it.

Now lets move onto the sections:

Sections close up

.

Now what I did for this set was to take my patterned piece of Raspberry Fizz paper, and stamped flowers from Floral Frenzy randomly all over, in co-ordinating colors.

For the tube insert- You will make mountain/valley folds.

Apply adhesive to back, and insert into holder.

Adhere the 2 ends to the sides of the holder.

For label-die cut 2 labels.

Large label from white cardstock, layered label onto sweet blush cardstock.

Die cut a scallop circle from spring moss cardstock. Layer on white die cut circle- stamped with flower & sentiment. Add dew drop with glue dot.

Wrap stitched grosgrain ribbon around box.

Last but not least-

Loofa-

 Remove original string from loofa

String through ribbon to match.

Insert through center of Maya Road flower, and make a knot.

Trim excess.

This was a simple addition, but really makes the set a WOW!

Its all about the details.

So there you have my projects for today. I hope you like them, as much as I do.

I’d love to hear your thoughts!!

Be sure to check out more samples on Nichole’s blog, as well as Lisa & Debbie!

I really hope you are all enjoying the countdown, and the peeks.

Well this month as part of our countdown, Nichole asked her team to come up with a Valentine Day treat. While I LOVE all the holidays and coming up with fun ideas, by now you may know my love does not lay with any type of cooking or baking. I’m sorta the type that likes home-made containers, and prefers wrapping something store bought in a fun way! LOL! I enjoy taking the time to create the packaging, not the baking process! LOL! I’ll leave those cool cooking ideas to the rest of the girls Plus it saves me more time to stamp.

So for baking, cooking or anything like that, this is as home-made as I will get this season-

Home made chocolate flower lollipops, in my NEW! My Timeless Template -the Lollipop Along

Stop and smell the flowers

 Could this skunk be any cuter? I think this is so stinkin adorable! (pun intended). This gift item uses the NEW! RELEASE-Forest Friends. I’m totally loving that set!!!

I used my lollipop along template to create a traveling chocolate lollipop garden.

When I saw this skunk I fell in LOVE! He/She is adorable. I also laughed so hard when I saw it because I don’t know what it is, but Alexa (my 9yo) has a love/hate relationship with skunks. BIG TIME! So this is for her.

The handle is made from cardstock. I punched 4 flowers from pure poppy, and secured my handle between them with brads. I think its a nice touch

Now the close up details-

I made my base from Spring Moss. Punched my holes for the lollipop sticks. These pops are large and I wanted them well seen, so I only used 3. I then punched a fence border (a Martha Stewart punch) and wrapped it around my template.

The “grass” is what is called wool roving. A hobby I THOUGHT I would try, but never did get to. I’m happy because the wool came in handy for my grass. I love when that happens.

I made my wrap from acetate, and stamped my sentiment in white stazon. I then stamped my skunk in black pallette ink (lightly heat set), then my flowers in white stazon. I used my Poppin acetate technique with Pebbles Inc pearlescent chalks for the flower to pop out in color. I then took a Souffle gel pen for the flower centers.

Easy peasy.

This project took MAYBE 20 minutes. Really simple.

Make sure you check the other design team member blogs for their treat ideas

Tomorrow’s peeks are my favorite items So I hope you are ready!

Thank you for stopping by.

To start-Many of you always ask about Alexa (thank you!) she had a great appointment, things are good, and Amber’s Christmas recital went great too.

OK let the My Timeless Template excitement begin! I am so over the moon with this template.

PLEASE NOTE: The template shared today will not be available for download until the 15th.

If you are new to this whole template thing-read this.

Got some questions? Maybe they are answered here. Also you can email me anytime at anr5@verizon.net for any questions you may have as well.

Want to see some samples with the past templates go HERE, and don’t forget each download has an exclusive full color idea booklet with supplies/instructions.

First I really, from the bitty bottom of my heart-want to say thank you to all of you who have purchased/used my past templates! I can’t tell you how great it feels to see that, and I love hearing your feedback Because of that we are including general instructions for assembly with the templates, and (for some) if needed, photos for some of the steps, if it sounds like it is confusing.

If you missed it Julie Campbell wrote a super sweet critique on the My Timeless Template line HERE! I’m still in awe over it! I think it also helps reading reviews of “customers” not my, the creator, who of course loves what I do.

Today I will get to share my first of several peeks. Now, like ALL my templates, it starts with a concept, and a catchy title,  but each template can be much more versatile than the given name! So don’t get hung up on the “name”! Just sit back and watch all that can be done with each template (outside its given title) as the days progress.

Well its about that time of year when you give homemade treats, or like to package up some goodies in a fun new way! It’s not too late to use these templates for the holidays either. Now don’t just think holidays! Think-any occasion. The friend who is sick, someone did something nice for you, someone had a baby, a birthday, surgery………you name it. Maybe there is NO reason.

 I love presenting simple things in a fun, creative way. I say this repeatedly but, it really IS all about the PRESENTATION!! Oh and our time. That too is precious. My idea is based on the concept for you to maximize creative time !!

Now speaking of easy, and home made, I often make home-made chocolate lollipops (I loathe cooking so these are so up my alley) Im always stumped as to HOW I present them. I designed this template to make just a gift like that presentable, fun and functional!

Now everything being said-let me introduce you to the Lollipop Along ©!

This template totally rocks Wait until you see what I have up my sleeve over the next couple of days with this one

This was my template concept project. Every template design starts with an idea and actual project. Then I go on from there. Now these concpet samples are one’s that I don’t put much time and effort into these samples, as they are just a quick way to get my concept out into a tangible template!

The flowers are made using the cuttlebug #1 flowers die cut. I stamped my Beautiful Blooms flower in the center, then popped out. They are covering the flat lollipops you buy at the store. I KNOW! I said home made lollipops, but we don’t always have time for that either.

All you do is  insert the sticks into the holes, and just use the handle to carry it to where ever you are going, to present it! I thought a sweet lil tag in the front would be cute. So I used honey bees & sentiments, since I wanted this to be similar to a paper garden!

Just a cute way to present one of those everyday items you may like to give out.

How cute would this be from the tooth fairy, or placed on the desks for some co-workers?

Side view.

Its super cute and sturdy. You can make it hold up to 6 pops. Depending on how you want them presented.

You can reach right in the side, and grab a pop, or remove the ribbon – and the box bottom holder can slide out the side! OR undo the top closures and it can open from the top. You can adhere the bottom to the wrap base if you wish, or secure in there as I did with the ribbon. Its all about creative liberty, and depending on what you are putting inside. There is no right and wrong to the templates! Use them in a way that suits you and your creative style.

You may be wondering HOW do I print my template on acetate?

Well you don’t! You print it on your copy paper, and since you can see through it, you use it as your cutting/scoring guide for your acetate. Same thing with vellum. You can print direct on cardstock  for your cover wrap if you wish.

Even if your printer doesn’t take cardstock, you can still use all my templates! Just print onto copy paper, and layer it over your patterned paper or cardstock, and use it as a guide to cut, and score where necessary. Easy peasy. I like to use removable adhesive (just like what you most likely already use-it just says removable) to keep mine perfectly together as I go along. Throw the cut/scored copy paper template in the trash when done. You aren’t double cutting or printing if you layer it over what you want to use and use it at the same time.

Many people asked me what type of printer I own that prints on cardstock:

I own a Canon Pixma IP 4000, and it does print on PTI cardstock. It works like a dream

Now onto another sample.

Now so you aren’t stuck on the name “Lollipop Along” let me share more with you!

Right now you *may* be thinking “How is a lollipop holder versatile? Seriously! What am I going to do with that after the ONE time I give out some suckers?”

Well how about altering that bottom box, and making it into a bucket style holder (insteqad of a abox base) for some bath and body products? Maybe a pedicure kit. Instead of acetate, use vellum cardstock (or patterned paper/cardstock)!

Happy Lil Target Take Along

Yes! That is a fabulous idea!! 

How can you NOT feel happy looking at this?

Again I was inspired by Target for my creation

I took the bottom pattern from my template, and made it into a sturdy little box-ket (aka box/basket) to hold some super smelling foot scrub, a pumice stone, toe separators, nail files, chapstick and nailpolish from the Target $1 spot! Can you believe how cute this looks?

 Here is a peek inside

That makes these gifts SOOOOOO affordable people!

The files, toe separators and nail polish were in one kit for $1. Then the foot scrub and pumice stone were each a $1! So for $3 I packaged these contents for a FRACTION of ANY gift set you could actually buy. Given that my template cost is only $5 and you can use it forever, I didn’t put a price on the end gift-but one use pays for itself. Even for $8 (cost with template included) this is a rockin gift for anyone who loves to be pampered! That doesn’t count the fact you can use the template in many ways, over & over!!!!!!!!!!

Just personalize it to suit the person or the fragrance, and you are on your way to be the QUEEN of gift giving

Now, as you can see, I used vellum cardstock on my wrap instead of acetate!

I used last months release set-Out of the box. Stamped in Pure Poppy ink, then dry embossed from the back-for some POP! Stamped “happy” in white StazOn.

I tied around a poppy polka dot ribbon, and tied it through asheeer  pretty white prima blossom! A perfect match to my stamp A pretty bella bauble for the flower center

View from the top!

Just grab the handle and go……

AND YES! You should use a redline tape or scor-tape for these projects! The bottom holds this stuff no problem.

I like to use cardstock, or even ribbon for my handle. Depends on the weight of your items inside. I just secure it in place with brads! By adding cardstock or other accents you not only make it purty, but you hide the ugly backing of the brad!

So there you have it! That is the peek of the day.

I hope you are excited about this. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts.

Now, just wait until you see my other projects with this template! WOW! I’m letting them get better as we go! LOL!

Tomorrow I have a peek using my other template So, ya’ll come back now ya hear!

For more peeks also be sure to check Nichole,   Heather & Lisa’sblog

Till tomorrow.

Well its the 10th! That means its day 1 of the preview samples for Papertrey Ink!

Tomorrow begins my peeks at my 2 newest templates too!! I have so many amazing things planned for those, so I hope you will check in again

Today’s post I am sharing a NEW! stamp set by Candice called Forest Friends. It is SOOO cute, and is releasing on the 15th. Let me tell you its really just so ADORABLE! I had a hard time trying to decide just what to share from it for my countdown post with you! I had too much fun with it. I will say it was very hard to make the switch from Christmas to Valentines Day for me this month, as I am working feverishly to complete gift sets for everyone. Crazy times.

OK enough blabbering.

I figured I would share yet ANOTHER treat holder made using the Nestabilities and this fun set.

Nuts for you Acorn Holder

Is this not the CUTEST thing ever?!

  I was inspired by these little “nut” wrapped Lindt chocolates that Noah got with his birthday gifts (I quickly claimed them as my own! LOL! But promised to give them back after my creative venture was over. Thankfully Noah gets it, and didn’t mind letting me borrow some). They are just so cute and perfect to present to anyone.

So seeing these, and this little squirrel I had to try a way to make my own acorn holder. Then this idea was born. I love it. Its great for the guy’s too.

This project took like 20 minutes to make. It could go faster, but I had no idea WHAT or HOW I was going to do what was in my head.

Now when you begin just align the Labels die with the oval die to ensure a compatible topper. You don’t one one that is too big or small. I believe I used the 2nd from the largest of the large set for both die sets on this project.

We are decorating BOTH sides of this box. A completed look on both sides makes it not only more professional looking, but appealing as well.

Lets begin.

Using Kraft cardstock die cut 2 large ovals.

These become the acorn bottom. You will cut down the top, so that your oval  measures 3 inches. See photo below.

Now for our acorn toppers!

I stamped my circular pattern from Limitless Labels  in dark chocolate ink, on dark chocolate cardstock to mimic the texture of an acorn top. I then used the labels one nestability to cut 2 acorn toppers.

This is what you are going to have for pieces.

See acorn toppers cut down.

Then you want to cut a box bottom/connector piece size 3 X 7.

Score that piece at 1/2, then 2 1/2.

Apply score tape and remove backing, before you cut! Otherwise you are removing tiny snippets of paper backing from the project, wasting precious time. Can you tell I HAVE done that before?

Snip edges to score line all the way across on both sides.

This will allow you to easily bend, and apply the box piece to the curved oval acorn.

You slowly adhere it, and curve it as you go, to your acorn back. The box edge go to edge of front and back panel.

Soon it will be adhered all the way around.

Now before you put your front panel on you need to stamp it!!

I LOVE acrylic stamps for this purpose alone! Easy peasy.

I stamped my squirrel image with dark chocolate ink. I then colored my acorn image (also from limitless labels) with markers, and stamped it into the squirrels hands.

Now adhere the front panel.

This is the box with the front panel on.

Last but not least we add the topper!

I just used a scalloped border punch from Martha Stewart, to first to make a nice finished edge. Layered it on, then trimmed the excess. You can omit the scallop border portion and its still super cute. This was a last minute detail I wanted.

For my final acorn topper, I tied on some dark chocolate twill, with my tag ready to go!

(You would adhere this as is if omitting the scallop layer)

I just die cut my tag, and added the same acorn as in the squirrels hands. Then attached it through my ribbon.

Put it on the acorn box, and VOILA!!

DONE!

Thats all there is to it And yes I did crawl out my window again!

There was an actual squirrel by this tree collecting the nuts the kids piled up for him at the bottom. I spent an HOUR trying to get him in my photo!! Wouldn’t that have totally rocked!! It was a no go though :C Apparently Im not furry and friendly enough to be trusted my a squirrel, as I invade his personal space to get get my photo op.  I did have some crazy stray orange cat though, that would NOT go away! He kept climbing up the tree next to my box, and making it fall over. How annoying that was. The stories I could tell from my stamp room, I swear. I think my neighbors in the back must think I’m totally mad!

Well thats it, for here anyway.

Be sure you check out Nichole and Lisa’s blog as well for more peeks!

I can’t even wait for tomorrow Lots of eye candy to come. You are going to love this months templates ( I HOPE!)

Today Alexa has a post chemo check up, so wish us well! AND Amber has a Christmas recital at the nursing home this afternoon. Busy day.

Thanks for checking in and reading

Till tomorrow

I am sorry this is late! Im really sick today, and up unitl an hour ago could barely get off the couch. Still feeling awful- but wanted to point you to 2 of my Projects of the month! Both for Lizzie Anne Designs.

Also be sure to check out their retiring list! Some of my faves :C but they are 40% off, when they go in your cart! WOW! Pretty cool deal.

Prior to posting this I didn’t realize how much I LOVE the Chocolate Covered Pretzel Stixs from Archer Farms! (Target Brand) I love the new Pretty Papers. Then also didn’t realize how much I use my nestabilities for gift packaging! LOL!

Anyway-here are the photos of my projects-maybe it will inspire a nice quick gift for that someone on you list you didn’t want to forget, but couldn’t afford to go all out for. Each project has 4 pretzel stix (people like pre-wrapped stuff) and you can get 2 1/2 projects with one container. So a little under $2 per gift!! Considering the Pretzels are $3.99 (not on SALE!)

December-Lizzie’s Lovely Label Pretzel Packaging

Detail photo-

Directions/supplies——> HERE!

Then from last month’s archive we have……………

November-Falling for you treat box

Close-up detail photo

Directions/supplies—–> found here!

OK Im going back to bed.

Tomorrow I have a Blog Hop project to share from MFT!

Till then

Well it’s December 1st. Am I the ONLY one who thinks that is INSANE?? Where did July go?!

Yesterday we actually got an accumulation of snow.

What I can’t believe is I have to STOP the talk about gift giving and actually get started! UGH!! This means it will be a crazy next couple of weeks.

Anyway every month on the 1st Nichole gives us a Design Team Challenge, and this month was to create a unique presentation for a gift card or cash.

I think this was a great challenge for us all because I know we have many TEENS in our family, and I’m not killing myself making them some keepsake (that they will toss) or try to figure out WHAT to buy-so I ALWAYS go the gift card route. You can’t lose

I decided this challenge would help me get some holders ready in time for the holiday. Often even if I don’t MAKE a gift, and give cash or a gift card, I always like to present it in a FUN way.

Well I decided when I saw this gift card design

at Michaels, that it would inspire my design. Did I have FUN!!!!!

You can see how I used a hobby blade to make the mittens “hold” the gift card in the photo above. I stamped my mittens first, then used a coluzzle to cut a circle around them for the body  Easy peasy.

 I think its great to make your theme fit your gift card theme.

Here is the full view of my first of THREE gift card holders: Spender Snowman

Is he not the most adorable thing you have ever seen?!

I have to say my finished gift card holder just came out better than the vision in my head

The very first thing that ever came to mind when I saw the actual size of the mitten image from the Snowfall set was to hold a gift card! It was one of those ideas that I had, but didn’t execute right away. I just jotted it down, to save for later. Well I’m happy to say that while this was different than my original vision in my head,  I just LOVE it. There is a snowman on the card that sparked the idea, as did the colors in the gift card.

Now the hands and body were the easy part. I had to decide what to do for the face!

I used the top of the tree from the Merry & Bright set for my snowman nose, and a middle image of a different tree from the Merry & Bright additions set for my little hat cuff! I thought it matched the gift card perfectly! The rest of the hat was just a die cut circle from Ocean Tides cardstock. Added a pom pom to the top.

The sentiment on the bottom of the snowman is from Merry & Bright

Now my eyes are Bella Dots- just colored with a black sharpie marker!!

I used Pebbles Pearlescent Chalks for the shimmery pink cheeks.

Now the scarf I used the Aqua Mist grosgrain and pulled the fiber apart, securing it in place with a brad from Making Memories. A perfect scarf don’t you think?

This lil Spender Snowman took me about a 45 minutes to make, which isn’t bad considering I had NO real idea what I was going to use for each step.

The BEST part of this entire project was when I showed my husband. He said it was his favorite thing I have ever made! ( I thought-WOW! REALLY?!!) Then he went on with a FABULOUS idea. He since since I was seeking inspiration from my gift card I should also make a Santa and a Reindeer!

What  great idea. Considering he never offers creative input or shows too much excitement, I figured I better listen to show him his opinion matters (and get some of our family gift card holders done a tad bit earlier than Christmas Eve! LOL!)

NOTE: You can tell the snow started to fall as I stamped! Put me in the Christmas spirit as I FROZE my hiney off taking photos in our yard outside my stamp room. I crawled out the window-in my slippers-no jacket-to get these photos! OYE! What we do for our hobby eh?

Next up: Santa Sends Some $

Now aside from the mittens (like above) the rest is just cardstock and creativity!

I used Pure Poppy cardstock , and stamped his mittens in black and white ink.

For the belt buckle that was an OLD punch I had from EK Success and never used-till now! LOL! His beard is done in white-using a scallop circle nestability, and his face was a large oval, punched from blush cardstock, with the addition of googly eyes, and pink cheeks!!

Ribbon makes his hat cuff here, and another pom pom.

Then I debated-a mouth or no mouth?

So I slapped one on, and didn’t like it :C

I didn’t have the right size circle for his mouth and I wanted him to be happy. At the end of the day I ripped this mouth off! LOL! Oh well. What is your opinion? Mouth on or off? I guess writing this it is kind cute…….HMM.

Now he only took me a bit over 20 minutes.

Now last but not least: Buck-a-roo

By now its FREEZING and DARK! Sorry this photo is awful :C

BUT…………Isn’t he cute?!

I created him using Kraft cardstock then sponged the edges. For the stamping- his mittens were done with Pure Poppy and Dark Chocolate ink. I made him also hold a snowball.

Want to know what made his antler’s?  It was the OPEN line image of the tree trunk from Father Knows Best, stamped in black, on dark chocolate cardstock, then cut out!

His ears are colored Bridal Confetti flowers

His Rudolph nose was originally the layered circle stamp-also from Father Knows Best, and covered with a large Bling (colored with a sharpie marker), but you can still see some of the circle outline, which is what I hoped for.  More googly eyes to complete the face :D

His scarf is a polka dot Ocean Tides ribbon, secured with a button that I embellished with some dotted cardstock.

The sentiment on the bottom is from Merry & Bright

The Buck-a-r00 took about a 1/2 hour since I wasn’t sure HOW to make him look just like a reindeer.

Now here we have a photo of the gift card trio-with the inspiration gift card!

By now I am a icicle! LOL! Covered in falling snow.

I hope you like my version of some cute little gift card holders, all created from the inspiration of the mittens! These didn’t take that long to make, and considering I have done the design part, to re-create them and whip up several, wouldn’t be as long! LOL!

I really don’t care how long they took, as I truly had fun with the challenge, and the extra push of inspiration that my husband set before me Thanks honey! Im just so happy with these.

Now for MORE inspiring ideas for Cash and Carry be sure to check out the design teams members!

Thanks for taking the time to stop by! Id LOVE to hear which one is YOUR favorite!

Mine is the snowman

Alexa liked Santa

Amber liked the Santa

Noah liked the Santa

I should have expected the kids to say that one! LOL!

Jay wouldn’t pick-he said they were all equally cute. I think he thought it was a trick question! You know like most men think when we ask them stuff. Too funny.

Anyway-hope you find some time to stamp for FUN! Challenging yourself while crossing off your “to do” list is a great way to multitask

Thanks for reading and only 24 more creating days till Christmas!

THINK-Mrs. Fields Raspberry Chocolate Stix-Think super simple, inexpensive, yet a CUTE way to give a small gift of cheer to a neighbor or from “Our home to yours” kind of gift.

Here is yet another view-from the roof top of my house box

I had WAY too much fun using the little house image from C.C. Designs upcoming release called Sugarplums Winter Scenery-this set goes for Sale on December 1st. Release party HERE at 9pm (on the 1st) EST.

Make sure to check the blog daily for a giveaway too!

So for my house box-

I decided to measure the house (about 2 inches) and I scored every 2 inches, adding a 1/2 inch to the end for my tab to adhere the panels together. In other words my paper was 8 1/2 across. I then scored up 2 inches from the bottom. I then left a empty block-stamped my house (right on the bottom score line), left a empty block, and stamped my house.

I then colored my 2 houses, and sponged my “sky”. I did go to the bottom of the box to make it look like snow on the ground. Stamped some light snowflakes, and added glitter and a white gel pun for now SNOW .

I used my paper cutter to cut an even line (end of roof tops to end of other roof tops) Then trimmed out my roof/details.

 Before putting it together I added a punched border from Martha Stewart to add to the design.

I then put my house box together! I added my little snowman as a 3D element, and added that glittery snow from Michaels. Glitter for the snowy icicles I love this little box.

Then I just put my Raspberry Mrs. Fields Chocolate Stix in a baggie-stamped a tag and tie it closed.

Thats it. This took MAYBE 15 minutes to make (due to the coloring) I think if I made more it would go much quicker.

Well thank you for reading!!

Have a super night.

Tomorrow I have a sample for a new kind of company for you to check out- Till then!

Sunday Amber had a birthday party to go to. I always have to add SOMETHING handmade when my kids go to a party it. Usually its a card, but my kids are now taking that part amongst themselves, and Amber insisted  she only send along her hand drawn picture she drew of the 2 of them playing Princess.

So I decided to include with her WebKinz gift a personalized Purse-onality Clutch  gift set that I made just for her.

What little girl doesn’t LOVE seeing her name on stuff? I know I still do And you cannot go wrong with PINK! I love this paper byImaginisce called Fairest of them all. It totally matched my Sweet blush (PTI), and Berry Sorbet cardstock

PS- many of you emailed to ask what patterned paper I used yesterday-HERE you go!

I used my flower border from the Curlz Deluxe Kit, and assembled Cassie’s name in the bottom of my circle block using the small letters set. I inked it in berry sorbet ink, then dotted my flower centers with an olive marker. Personalization complete Easy peasy. I like that there is NO hunting in a store for something with Cassie or any other name on it anymore, and being LIMITED to whatever random personalized gift I do find. I just make my own.

PS JustRite Stampers is have a HUGE SALE! Now is the time Buy one get one FREE

Now for the matching flowers, I used my shimmery bridal confetti flower in green for the “leaves” (found in Michaels Stores in the bridal section-paintcan FULL for $4) a 2 flower punches from Punch Bunch. With a little bling in the center.

Now the fun part to this gift set was WHAT it really was!

ThePurse-onality Clutch was made to be a MOD GIRLY version of a Crayon Box!

Yes! You read it right. Target had these LARGE boxes of Crayons for $1. I bought 2 boxes and went to work! Yes I said I bought 2. I know they are repeat colors, but you know kids break their crayons all the time. Plus I wanted to fill the clutch.

So when I say went to work you may be thinking “Work? Work on what?”

Wrapping up my crayons!

I stamped my limitless labels image onto my white mailing label sheets (32 crayons per box). Then covered each crayon! They wrap PERFECTLY!!!!!!!!!! I was over the moon, that what was in my head, was able to get done in the real world!

One box done in the floral pattern label Berry Sorbet, and the other box done in the leaf pattern in Ripe Avocado.

 Now even if they don’t have the “style” you want you can still use them for anyone! These would have been fine as they are Disney Princess Crayons, but I wanted to over them all the same.

Here is the set at another angle

Now if you are wondering what is the gift on the right……………that is just a covered white notepad for her to be able to draw on. The top flap slides into that belly band to keep it closed. Quick, cute and simple. The clutch was a HUGE hit with all the girls! I got the notebook at Staples. I believe there were 6 in a pack for only $2. Now if you have a girly party this would be pretty inexpensive to make for favors, and you daughter could help! Amber’s class is ALMOST all girls, only 1 boy so I may make these for little Christmas Gifts! Not sure yet. Im sure I can BOY up a clutch for the occasion!

Stay tuned for that

On another note: many of you emailed asking about my Kettlebell-

Wow! Am I ever sore. I did my first workout with the Kettlebell yesterday and all I can say is OUCH! A good ouch though. There is nothing like the muscle soreness from a hard workout. Makes you feel like you accomplished something.

I wasn’t sure I would like the workout. It honestly didn’t feel like a ton of work. I mean Im use to practically feeling like I am going to throw up after the Biggest Loser workout and Jillian Michaels 30 day Shred program! LOL!

 I broke a sweat but thought that was it. Well today I felt exactly where it worked! My abs, calves, thighs, butt and yes my arms. Who’d of thought. The one thing I didn’t like was the DVD was INSTRUCTIONAL only. You can go online and ORDER more workouts-GRR!!! My Kettlebell was On Sale at Target for $25-I think it was usually $33 (I got the 7lb one) and I feel for that price I should get a Workout dvd WITH IT! So I basically use the menu guide and go through each workout, doing my own reps with my MP3 player on. The good thing is I am getting more use from my MP3! LOL!

I’ll keep you posted.

Another meal I thought I’d include for you are the Panini’s from Lean Cuisine! OH YUM!! You wouldn’t think a microwaved sandwich would taste very good, but WOW! They are FILLING, and great for people on the go, who work at an office (just take for your lunch) and people like me-busy moms. Just pop it in the microwave while you fix the kids their lunch, and you are GOLDEN! Really loving those this week!!

I also like Soy Joy bars. Now Im not a “soy” person but these are pretty good, give you engery and are filling. Amber LOVES them. The other kids don’t. Jason thinks they are BOGUS, so I think its a personal choice.

When I want chocolate I got to my SlimFast snack bars! Perfect little dose without so much guilt. I like the chocolate peanut butter ones. I also LOVE Special K (store brand is what I really buy) strawberry granola bars too. Only 90 cal!!!!!!!!!!

OK that enough of the “talk”.

Hope you like todays post, and have a great week. Upon the advice of EVERYONE I am off to buy those shes today. I have determined that me NOT being a shoe person, and wanting them so badly, that YES! I do deserve them, and yes I will take photos for those who want to see what got me in a frenzy. They really aren’t a big deal, but I will share.

Till tomorrow