Quick post for a quick gift.

I have lots to do before the first day of school tomorrow! I don’t know how I feel about it being here ALREADY.

I want to get First Day of School teacher gifts done, but we shall see! LOL!

I’m always needing little gifts for people “just because”. LIKE teacher gifts. This project is not what I have planned-my kids teachers will be getting a early peek at my NEWEST My Timeless Template for September Release- for their gifts-and they don’t even have a CLUE! LOL!

Sometimes I’m tight on time (shocker I know! LOL!) and want to make something special , but QUICKLY! I don’t think that because something was done “quicker” doesn’t mean it has any less sentiment than something you poured over for a longer time-either way, you made it from the heart, and that is what matters!

Here is a recent gift I made using the My Timeless Template: Tucked Away ©

This color combo is FAB!

Raspberry Fizz, Smokey Shadow and White-LOVE T!

I LOVE stamping/paper-crafting because now you can REALLY make personal gifts that suit the receivers personality, or reflect the gift that you are giving-in this case it is a bag of Dutch Masterpieces-Blushing Pear hard candies (they are so YUM-O!). All I could think of was Partridg in a pear tree! LOL! Granted this isn’t a partridge, nor is my tree bearing fruit, but I went with it! LOL!

I used Birds of a Feather, and Beyond Basic Borders for this one.

The Thinking of You is from the Anniversary set (unavailable for purchase) and was popped out using a SU! punch (LOVE that one!)

Now for my back panel-that was printed on Raspberry Fizz. My decorative mat layer was done in white, then stamped. I adhered the layers together, prior to assembling my template. I then ran the top flap though my Cuttlebug Machine, using a label die from nestabilties, to be able to get a DEEP frame shape cut and embossed into the top layer Now it didn’t cut through the layers, just made a very cool SIMPLE accent to my Tucked Away top! 

Here you can see my bird is stamped in Raspberry onto Raspberry, with a dab of the gray on the tail, then cut out on dimensionals. The little heart rhinestone accentuates the tail and leafy swirls-perfection

Now in the corners, if you look closely-you can see I added these metal side tabs (usually used on wooden purse boxes). I love the way they add to the box design, without over powering it! Just a fun embellishment!

I also spritzed my layer with my color spritzer! Fun touch.

Anyway-this was done in like 20 minutes TOPS! So definitely a fast gift!

Well speaking of gifts, I better get INKING!

Tomorrow I send the kids off to school so I hope to get some photos posted.

Till then

Well as you know its ALMOST time for the kidlets to go Back to School! 

Many may already be back to the hustle and bustle of getting the kids up early, snacks packed, lunches made (or in my case $ for lunch sent :D) dressed and off to the bus they go! Then after a full day, have it be followed by all the after school activities that come with fall like Girl Scouts, Ballet, Soccer……. whatever it may be. I know my kids are very active as they get older.

Anywho, that all being said, this weekend kicks off our NEWEST! My Timeless Template © Challenge!

Seeing how we are all getting back to school………

If you get to play along link your creation HERE!

Next week I will highlight my top 5

Thanks to Pam for having such a FAB idea for our theme this month!

RULES:

You can use ANY My Timeless Template ©,

Challenge is to create some sort of Back to School themed gift!

That is it

Let me tell you I personally had a BLAST with this one ;D

My idea came when I got the Back to School letter, that alerted me what supplies each of my children needed for their grade.

When I saw the list-Pencil Box was first in line, then directly under it Crayons, I had my Epiphany!

Drum-roll please…………………………..

Tah Dah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Captured Card Case © becomes Amber’s Crayon Supply Box!

Now picture making these for all your children or WITH your class!!! FUN! FUN! Even as a party favor box for a toddler’s birthday! I know I made Alexa a Crayola Crayon Box cake for one of her parties! —> Click here to view cake<— Trust me when I tell you my paper-crafting skills FAR out match my CAKE decorating skills! LOL!!

My 5 year old, Amber is entering Kindergarten, and needed a pencil box full of supplies. I immediately KNEW that the Captured Card Case © template would make the PERFECT personalized supply box for her cubby!

My inspiration was OBVIOUSLY from the Crayola Box of crayons.

I had also found these SUPER cute Crayon Lunch Box Note Cards (at Michael’s - you get 10 with envelopes for ONLY $1!) which were PERFECT for this project idea! I do have a crayon Sizzix Die, and prior to this find, planned on die cutting my own Crayola Crayons, but this was BEYOND perfect! Plus it made this easy peasy!

So, I printed my templatebase onto New Leaf cardstock. Then cut, scored and assembled as directed .

I then printed my templatelid onto Lemon Tart cardstock. Cut and scored as directed.

Prior to assembling I used my Coluzzle to create the 1/2 circle opening- Like the open box of Crayons.

I then adhered the crayon note cards to the INSIDE lid of the template, making sure they’d pop out a bit!

cardstock-by first cutting a rectangle 1 1/2 X 3 1/2

I then just cut that rectangle corner to corner to get both of my 1/2 triangles! I noticed that the lined image from Background Basics: Retro was perfect for the lines that are on the crayon box. Amber requested GLITTER somewhere, so I used my handy dandy 1/2 inch Scor-Tape © (which is my tape of choice that I use on ALL my templates :D), then sprinkled on some Glitter!

I personalized Amber’s name using the Fresh Alphabet. It was totally perfect!

Amber FREAKED when she saw this! Boy did that make me so happy

The Captured Card Case © holds all her supplies

Don’t they look so cute in there?

We have a box of crayons, glue stick, scissors, folding ruler, note pad, pencil sharpener, eraser, and pencils-with room to spare.

Now, because the “crayons” are little note-cards,  (I adhered them closed) they are dual sides, even the INSIDE looks cute

Now this is fun and functional, and better yet it cost only 0.66 CENTS to make!!!!!

 (that is because each sheet of cardstock is 0.18 cents-then the crayon notes are 0.10 cents each)

This could be cute to make for the Teacher’s desk too!!!!!!!! Can’t forget the teachers

This project only took about 40 minutes to make-and I think the 2nd would be much faster. I had NO idea HOW I was going to make the crayon box work, but now that you have my version yours could really go quick!

Now it is YOUR turn to give the challenge a whirl! Maybe it will be a EARLY push to start teacher gifts for the holidays too

Be sure to see what ideas the Design team has created too, using the templates! They really work hard each week!

Now I’d like to share the TOP 5 picks from Last Weeks Color Challenge!

(I”ll be posting MY color challenge tomorrow-with my top 5 from the week before that I missed)

Please check out their creations by clicking the links on their names

Sylivia

Paula

Donna

Terri

Jennifer

They all did a great job!
I can’t wait to see what you all do with this weeks challenge!

I hope you enjoy it.

Yes! You read it correctly! A Christmas Blog Hop!

We have a grand total of 35 players too So once you are done here, scroll on down for WHO else has eye candy!

JustRite Stampers is having an AMAZING Christmas Release! You can view ALL the NEW! Release items —>HERE<—!

I’m totally head over heels with the images/sentiment combos this release has. I totally love the turn this company has taken with the variety they are offering! Not only can I get FAB alphabets sets (for CHEAP $-excellent quaility :D) in various sizes with ONE purchase, I can now get great bordering sentiments WITH co-ordinating images too.

So let me get to my project so YOU can get hopping!

In case you didn’t know, another FAB NEW! item that JustRite Stampers carries (for a LIMITED TIME!) is Storage Box with Drawer . I love this new item, and found a way to make it a decorative, fun and functional item for your home during the holiday season!

Christmas Card Cardinal Box

My Holiday Idea: I designed this box so that it can be used to hold last year’s Christmas cards!

Each year we receive photos with updates from our families. I just can’t bare to throw away the cards after the season is over, but I also cannot leave them up all year! This box allows me to keep them, and display the decorative box during the holidays, so that we can open it up and reflect on how everyone has grown and changed from one year to the next! People love to go through the cards and compare :D Now I can cherish them, and keep each year organized.

OR it can just be a great box to give something in

 I chose the Cardinal from the Christmas Treasures Borders & Centers Round 3-1/4”set as my main focus.

I thought it was so pretty, and perfect for the occasion. Stamped on a vintage cream cardstock, it was colored with Copic Markers.

I used some Poinsettia themed patterned paper by K& Co. to cover the top of my box. I then used some tree pattern from the same paper stack to cover the front drawer of this box. I used Zip Dry for ALL my projects that involve “covering” something. Its clear, quick to dry and easy to remove from areas you DON’T want it on, after it dries. For example-sometimes glue leaks out from under the paper and onto the “pretty” parts of the project where you DON’T want them! Just rub off-and you never knew it was there. It doesn’t even ruin your project I love that.

For my tag I used *just* the Cardinal center image.

I also used a Labels 3 Nestability for my tag

Some of the image was omitted when I cut the circle tag, but I love that the main focus is on the bird and holly berries.

I added the tag to the center of my Dual Sided Satin Ribbon from My Little Ribbon Shop, which was tied in a quad bow. I love the elegance the ribbon added to the project, and how it pulled out even more of the richness of the colors, out of my project!

Now in case you cannot tell-

My bird is 3 D

My holly berries are covered with a clear glaze pen for a 3D pop.

Then both of my tag edges are traced with a Gold marker!

This box was completed in UNDER a 1/2 hour!

My post took longer to type up

OK Now it is time for you to hop along to anyone you may not have seen samples from yet!

Here is the list

*JustRite Stampers-Blog

*Becca Feeken

*Sankari Wegman

*Sharon Johnson

*Kazan Clark

*Sharon Harnist

*Laura Davis

*Debbie Olson

*Michelle Woerner

*Taylor Van Bruggen

*Jenn BalcerMichelle Wooderson

*Lori Craig

*Beate Johns

*Barb Schram

*Kimberly Crawford

*Michele Kovack

*Jami Bova

*Kellie Fortin

*Jennifer Buck

*Heidi Blankenship

*Angela Barkhouse

*Lisa Somerville

*Gerrie Johnnic

*Kathy Jones

*Debbie Seyer

*Kim Sonksen

*Terre Frye

*Sheryl Dickinson

*Bonnie Sharp

*Mary Pfaff

*Holly Simoni

*Angela Robledo

WHEW! That is an amazing list of crazy talented players! So I hope you hop along to see what each one has done for the HOP!!

Thank YOU for stopping by here. I hope I gave you a fun idea for how to store those Christmas cards year after year, in style!

Every month I cannot believe its THAT month’s release! LOL!

Time is just WHIPPING by isn’t it? Before I know it Christmas will be done and over and it will be 2010!

Well today is the 15th and that means I have my Papertrey Ink projects to share That also means the latest and greatest of the My Timeless Templates: Tucked Away & Fold n’ Go! are now available for purchase too! WOOT! WOOT! I truly cannot wait to see what YOU do with them-so don’t forget to share

Now as I get ready to share my release items, please be sure to scroll down so you can see all I had to share this week, leading up to the release!! I previously shared projects using 3 NEW! Release sets: Sign Language, and 2009 Halloween & 2009 Fall Tags! Don’t miss them.

In the meantime….here are the remainder of my samples!

Scattered Showers Additions

I know this set is the scattered shower additions set, but I found it to be TOTALLY cute on its own! I had fun layering the tag, with the clouds and sun images in the set. The sentiment reminds me of my most favorite song I used to sing as a girl by Barry Manilow-Can’t Smile Without You! I just LOVE this fun & cheery card!

Seriously are the colors not FAB?! I had a blast with this one!

Supplies:

Stamps: Scattered Shower additions
Cardstock: white, teal
Patterned Paper 2008 bitty star basics
ink: summer sunset, aqua mist, pure poppy, new leaf, black
ribbon: saddle stitched grosgrain
tag punch by SU!, adhesive pearl, pinking circle nestability

Fall Elegance

This set is very pretty. The perfect all around “fall” set. Tiffany did a FAB job with all the elements she combined when creating this. I look forward to using more of her designs in the future. The ideas of this project I am about to share just flowed!

Thankful for-

I used my Fold n’ Go! template with this new fall set to create a elegant gift package!

I loved the flourished pattern on the leaves, so I tried to mimic that idea into my design by paper piercing a flourish of “wind” around the leaves

I also used a hobby blade to cut portion of each leaf, so I could pop it forward, as if it were swirling off my box!

I’m in love the contrast of the black, Razzleberry (a SU! color) and lavender moon, on this package.

As you can see I used the standard and Pretty Petite version of the template to create the similar designs.

Supplies:
My Timeless Template: Fold N’ Go!
Stamps: Fall Elegance
Cardstock: Rich Razzleberry (SU!) Lavender Moon
Patterned Paper: Bitty Dots 2008
Ink: versamagic trio, and black
Prima Flowers, adhesive rhinestones, paper piercer and template, 1 1/4 circle punch, corner rounder

Autumn Abundance

What a pretty set this is! I’m just in love (as always).

When I saw this set I went to rich colors like the blues and greens. I love the “not so typical” fall colors, in case you can’t tell! I did a similar color scheme last year for fall and I still just LOVE that color combination! See my table setting post <—-CLICK IT!

Now here are my samples using the stamp set, and  The My Timless Template Tucked Away

My colors were also pulled from some new paper by K & Co.

Again a standard and Pretty Petite version of my Tucked Away template! I love showing the various designs ideas for BOTH sizes.

Top view of standard size

Now we have the Pretty Petite version

For this one I used the Apron border from EK success to create the cute scalloped edge on my layer Loved it.

This is the set stacked!

I think it looks so cute like that

You could put ANYTHING in here from after dinner mints, to tea, maybe chocolates, of other homemade goodie? Embroidered napkin/handkerchief…….love that idea!

Seriously Perfect!

Now seriously simple…….

Oh boy was my eye ever drawn to the flower image in the set (go figure! LOL!)

I just did a SIMPLE card using my nestabilities and this image as my MAIN focus!

 Simple, clean and understated. I like it You don’t always need a LOT to make an impact.

P.S. If you purchase the Fold n’ Go! Template you will see another version I did using this set and colors-I was over the moon for it!

Supplies:
My Timeless Template: tucked Away
Stamps: Autumn Abundance
Cardstock: Spring Moss, Enchanted Evening, White, New Leaf
Saddle stitched ribbon in Enchanted Evening
patterned paper by K& Co
Labels dies, circle dies, apron border by EK Success, brads, cuttlebug embossing folder

Next up we have……

Boo to You!

When I saw this set I immediately saw a witch cauldron! I decided that was exactly what I would do. Making that change from a pumpkin, to a pot, was easy peasy! I made this cute tag to hold 2 glow sticks, for a duo colored necklace! What trick or treater wouldn’t be excited to get these instead of the traditional “candy” that rots their teeth! LOL!

Wouldn’t a classroom of kids FREAK over these? Easy peasy!! I may have my own treat idea done (hopefully on time :D)

Supplies:

Stamps: Boo to you
cardstock: black, white, purple
patterned paper: black and white basics, 2008 bitty star basics
ink: black, smokey shadow, summer sunrise, orchid
stitched grosgrain
vintage buttons
tag punch by marvy, circle punch. jewel brad

That is that!

WOWZERS! Do I ever need a break! LOL! I always go into creative overload after the release! I pour every ounce into it, so by the end I am just EMPTY! Hopefully all the day trips we are taking with the kids will help refill my creative tank It feels so good and refreshing spending time with the kids, and making memories together!

COLOR CHALLENGE!

Before I go I do have a challenge for you! It is after-all Saturday!  Sadly I did NOT get anything done-so I apologize I was just crazy busy with Amber’s birthday and the PTI release.

You can see the samples from our team here:

Pam, was kind enough to get a color challenge posted for us!

This is her color choice:

Link your creations here!

NOTE:
I will be picking and displaying a Top 5 from last week, but didn’t properly get to go through all the entries, so I will post them in a couple of days along with my sample using the challenge!

So once again, thank you for stopping by!

I hope you like the projects I have shared over the last week

Enjoy the day

I love using all the My Timeless Templates ©.  I am often looking for new ways to dress them up, and make each one more fun and different than the last! It really is ALL about the details.

Today, in a video, I am going to show you how ONE little binder clip, can make the cutest, inexpensive handle, for just about ANY My Timeless Template © you wish to put it on!

Now you have seen how easy it really is to make these handles, I’ll share some details about the project I designed.

Basket of Thanks

Today’s project, I utilized the NEWEST! My Timeless Template © Tucked Away. 

This is the large version of the template.

I designed my box to look like a basket, with the fabric napkin overhanging, and flowers inside-*just* like the colored image from Vintage Picnic (a MUST have set-in my opinion!)

I stamped the Kraft bottom of Tucked Away © , to look similar to a basket weave by using the Tea Dye Duo ink, with Background Basics: Retro image.

I also created the “pattern” on my “napkin” (aka the template lid - mat layer), using Guidelines grid, and the flowers from Around and About, in white craft ink, and Summer Sunrise!

For the additional mat layer, I just adhered a layer of Summer Sunrise, to my stamped layer,  then used my pinking edge scissors, to easily cut my decorative layer-perfectly.

Then, for the top-I used various punched flowers to create my “paper garden”.

I added some beaded leaves, as well as Prima paper leaves to complete the “look”.

This made my basket look like it was filled with flowers! Just like the stamped basket image from Vintage Picnic.

Once you “un-tuck” the top, inside there are 4 large, Lindt Chocolate Caramel Clusters inside!

Totally YUMMY!

As you can see the binder clip ribbon handle really adds a nice detail to the overall design! Now because this template “tucks” closed, you can use your handle to present such a pretty “basket” of thanks!

This project took less than a 1/2 hour total-and that was design concept included, and the MAKING of my own patterned papers! You now have a design idea, you could whip up numerous “baskets” in no time!

Supplies:

My Timeless Template © Tucked Away

Stamps:Vintage Picnic, Retro Bkgd, Guidelines, Around and About Sentiments

Cardstock: White, Kraft, Summer Sunrise, Lemon Tart, Ripe Avocado

Ink: Tea Dye Ink Duo, Dark Chocolate, Summer Sunrise, White

Ribbon: Stitched Grosgrain in Summer Sunrise

Buttons: Melon Berry

OTHER: Leaves by Prima, Brads by SU! ,Word Window Punch by SU! Pinking scissors, Various Flower punches by Marvy, Labels die by SU, Oval punch by SU! tag punch by SU! Singlo Gel pen, Beadded leaf cluster from Michaels Craft Store

Well that is all for me today! I hope you enjoyed today’s project/tutorial.

Tonight is the Papertrey Ink Release! I hope to see you on the forum

In the meantime be sure to check out Nichole’s Blog for more samples & creative clicks, as well as  Debbie’s post today (she is filling in for Becky :D) as she shares the last of the countdown peeks!

Till tomorrow

Well today is my daughter Amber’s Birthday! She is now 5!

 I do have a special post going LIVE, at the time that she was born, later Its a full on mom sob fest, so you may be happy its not live right now! LOL!

I do, in the meantime have 2 samples to share!

Since it is her birthday today (we have lots to do :D), I asked Amber for some ideas using my Tucked Away © Template (releasing the 15th of August). Basically what could I use to inspire a creation? She didn’t even hesitate when she said “How about my owl bed stuff!? Do you have something like that?”

Circo Love & Nature Bedding<–click to view

I had to think for a second about WHAT I have, and then excitedly replied-YES! I do!!!

Now I made the standard size template, along with the Pretty Petite version of the same design, since I think it is SO fun to do that

So, based solely upon the bedding, this is what I have come up with -thanks to the inspiration from my NOW 5 year old

(this may also help you see both are a great size completed box!)

Here is the set of them

I stamped my uber cute tree trunks from Everyday Button Bits! I punched a circle into the box and mat layer, so it acts not only as a tree, but a window, so you can see what yummies are inside I did use acetate to cover the window, even though my candy is in a cello bag (I do that to keep inside clean and re-giftable!)

In this case that would be Sherbet Dutch Licorice Candy!

I know-I LOVE licorice We recently went to an international Candy Store in Portsmouth NH, where they sell FAB candy from ALL over the world! I had to scoop these up. Not only do they LOOK yum-azing, they taste it (Yes I sampled some! LOL!) Don’t recall the weird name though-sorry :C

OK focusing-getting mind off yummy treatlets…….

I punched some patterned paper to create my tree tops! In the bedding the trees are patterned, and scalloped :D

 The owl is from Wise Owl, and she is perched on one of the trees

Now like in the bedding I chose various colors and patterns for my “hills”

I think this is just a super cute design from the inspiration piece! I love it.

The colors are just pure deliciousness too. Don’t you think?

Suplies:

My Timeless Template © Tucked Away

Stamps: Wise Owl, Everyday Button Bits

Cardstock: Hibiscus Burst, Spring Moss, Sweet Blush, white

Patterned Paper: In Bloom, Bitty Dots & Bitty Box basics

Ink: Dark Chocolate, and Copic Markers

Ribbon in Hibiscus Burst

Other: Circle punches, scallop flower punch, nestability

Now we have a project using Fold n’ Go!

Celebrate In Bloom

Again, I used the standard template, along with the Pretty Petite size, using the SAME design concept. I think it is really cool to see the difference, and the fact that the images in sets work so well with EITHER size of the templates

I especially love the design of this package set.

If you haven’t noticed In Bloom has become a favorite floral set of mine!

I truly LOVE it. I especially love coloring it. The image is too pretty NOT to! I alspo LOVE layering and making things dimesnional, so this set is perfect for that too. I think it makes this particular gift set REALLY pop!

When I designed this box all I could envision were gorgeous WINDOW’s cut into the box!

So, that is exactly what I did here

I decided that my NEW! Labels Five Die as a template to trace, and cut a window frame around my floral image!

The outside edge of frame was traced in a black ink, and the inside of the frame, traced with a pen, then cut with a hobby blade!!

I love the look, but it needed more, so I used a gold pen to trace around the inner frame edge. It added an IMMEDIATE sense of elegance, in seconds.

Now this looks clean and simple, but its the finer details and colors that make it a WOW!

This is the standard size of the Fold n’ Go! template

I LOVE the handle this DOESN’T have! LOL! Just the shape and design stand out! Because it is a Gable style top, you can add a bow like this and the person can “unfold it” without ruining your overall design.

You may be wondering WHAT I packaged in these…..

Well this one had 3 Trendy Tubes inside-inserted in a divider, so they stand upright and don’t move. The instructions for the divider is included with the template-so no worries

In the tubes I have bath salts, body wash and body lotion. The “window” was left open.

Now for the Pretty Petite version…..

I have coral shimmery nailpolish, nail clippers, nail file and toe dividers Perfect Pedicure for “on the go!” This would have been perfect for my daughter’s Spa Party LAST year!!! Darn!

Who knows what I will actually use for Amber’s Princess Dress Up party (next month Sept 19th!)

Supplies:

My Timeless Template: Fold n Go!
Stamps: In Bloom, Autumn Abundance (sentiment)
cardstock: White, Melon Berry

Patterned Paper: In bloom
Ink: Black & copic markers
Ribbon: Melon Berry saddle stitched
Trendy Tube small round
Other: frame, circle punches, black pen, gold pen, label punch by SU!

Thanks for stopping by I appreciate all the love and excitement you all share with me as I countdown to the 15th!

Lots more countdown peeks going on, so visit Nichole for more ideas and creative clicks! Michelle has a peek using Autumn Abundance.

Also  Melissa, Heather, Dawn and Tiffany, will have some FAB eye candy as well using their own releases this month.

Tomorrow I have a Video with a very fun tip for ya too (wink)!

See ya back here later

Well today the Papertrey Ink Design Team has a special group post for you!! I always love these posts and challenges.

Papertrey Ink is releasing 2 tag sets this month called 2009 Autumn Tags and 2009 Halloween Tags!

They are both fabulous, and must haves! Especially when you are creating gifts and using any of the My Timeless Templates ©! LOL!

So part of our group challenge was to focus on the versatility & ease of use that these types of designs allow. Our assignment was to use the 2009 Halloween set, then turn around and create a second version of the same project substituting image(s) from the 2009 Autumn Tags set.

 The second project should feature a different color scheme and show how easy it is to repeat the same design and end up with two different looks.

The first project should definitely be for Halloween, while the other should clearly be for celebrating Autumn/Thanksgiving.

Does that sound fun or what?!!

So here is what I came up with using the 2 new 2009 Tag sets, combined with my newest My Timeless Template: Fold n’ Go

This is my Halloween & Fall  set, photographed together. Both have the same layout, but different color schemes and my embellishments reflected the “holiday” design as well.

I decided to further show the versatility by repeating the design on the standard Fold n’ Go! template, as well as the Pretty Petite version too!

Here is my 2009 Halloween Tags Treat Box set

I have to say I LOVE this non-traditional Halloween color combination of Black, Summer Sunrise, Hibiscus Burst and Pure Poppy! Because of the black & orange it still works-yet adds a pop of a few other fun colors!

Close up of the tag

So for my tag-I stamped it onto a tangerine cardstock, then punched out-so it appeared to be the “moon”

The tag is re-stamped and punched out onto hibiscus cardstock, then layered onto a pinking edge circle tag!

I adore the flowers on it too! A fun and unexpected embellishment,which also tied in my color combo.

Sentiment on tag reads: Witches go riding and black cats are seen, the moon laughs and whispers, ’tis near Halloween!

Supplies for 2009 Halloween Tags Set

My Timeless Template: Fold n’ Go!

Stamps: 2009 Halloween Tags

cardstock: black, pure poppy, hibiscus burst, summer sunrise, pumpkin

patterned paper: bitty star basics

Ink: Black

Ribbon: stitched & bitty dots in hibiscus burst

Vintage Buttons

Other: EK success pinking border punch, pinking circle nestabilties, circle punches, adhesive rhinestones, Epoxy flowers by Making Memories, corner rounder

Now we move on to our 2009 Autumn Tags Set 

Again same exact layout as project above, and both sizes of the boxes are designed the same as well!

This used more traditional and expected fall colors. I was able to really do some fun mixing and matching of patterned papers for this one. The ribbon really made it all come together and just POP!

I think its a very elegant looking box, as oppose to the first box, which was more “cutesy”.

I loved the stitched pumpkin image, as well as the leaf ring! They were just made to go together to me.

I found a beaded leaf sprig at the craft store that matched that leaf ring, and looked PERFECT with my flower embellishment!!

It really just tied the entire project together, don’t you think?

Supplies for 2009 Autumn Tags Set

My Timeless Template: Fold n’  Go!

Stamps: 2009 Autumn Tags

Cardstock:Really Rust (SU!), white, Ripe Avocado, Summer Sunrise

Patterned Paper: In Bloom, First Fruits

Ink: Versamagic, black, Copic Markers

Other: Circle & pinking circle nestabilities, EK success pinking border punch, circle punches, corner rounder, flowers by American Crafts, beaded leaf sprig by Michael’s, brads by SEI

Ribbon by American Crafts

As you can see, same layout, but the different colors really make each look so completely unique  Gotta love that!

Now this is suppose to include treats of some sort, right?

So here is what I packaged-keeping with my colors for BOTH projects, and keeping in mind the theme:

In the Pretty Petite version

I cut down (to fit) 2 large trendy tubes, and filled them with Candy Corn!

For the Standard Fold n’ Go! template

A bag of red licorice in each!

I am BEYOND addicted to this new Australian soft red licorice (OH! MY WORD! AMAZING!), that I found at Target (RUN!! and get some! You will be in heaven!), so I packaged it up in a seal-able large clear envelope! One bag of the licorice will fill the standard template, and one bag will fill 2 pretty petite versions, and you can *maybe* sneak a couple!

So there you have my take on the challenge for use of the 2 newest 2009 tag sets!

Check out Nichole’s blog for all the designers peeks and clicks to each project!

As you know tomorrow I have even more gift ideas and samples with My Timeless Templates-so stay tuned!

Day #2

That means it is time for the next peek at the 2nd My Timeless Template © (template will be released Aug. 15th!)

Thank you for sharing the excitement of yesterday’s template peek too!

I am very excited about this next one as well, and I hope you will be too!

This new template is called Tucked Away © and will also include the Pretty Petite version! ( LOVE the Petite size!)

Enchanting Elegance

This is the standard size version of the template.

About Tucked Away ©

Now it is about time we had a perfectly cute box to “tuck away” so many treasures, be them gifts like homemade candy, treats or everyday items. But, the name doesn’t come from its adorable convenience, it comes from the front flap closure, which has a perfect little tab, that tucks into the bottom, keeping it closed.

It is simply un-tucked to reveal the little treasure you put inside.

 That same flap really adds to the design possibilities for this box . You will love to “tuck away” so many treatlets in this template! It also has a layering decorative panel to make design ideas endless!

Now by printing the front portion of the template in one color, then the lid/flap closure in a patterned paper or another color you get a dual colored design, that is EASY to achieve, weather you add additional layers or NOT! You choose how simple or complex your design becomes! Another great thing! No matter WHAT your creative style YOU get to personalize these templates to YOUR style or occasion! Love that

The KEY to the My Timeless Templates © is in the name-Timeless!

Each template goes together quickly and is made to be put together as easily as possible. My goal is to make gift packaging EASY, but with a WOW! I think this template certainly does that.

Now about today’s sample……

I am just in LOVE with White,  Smokey Shadow, and Enchanted Evening with touches of Ripe Avocado! LOVE I tell you

As you can see this is a very SIMPLE version of the template. I can see this as Wedding Favors all over the world, in choice of colors It is just such an elegant design!

Yes, this stamp was the CHA exclusive (sorry! I couldn’t help but use it :C) Floral Fusion.

BUT! Don’t despair if you don’t have it! I feel that Out on a Limb is just as FAB (and readily available for purchase) as an alternate, and could achieve the same simple elegance, OR you could also substitute Beautiful Blooms, With Sympathy, or Sprial Bouquet Heck, for a total wedding look you could even use another fave of mine: Piece of Cake!

I added a layered butterfly-the large one done in vellum, and the smaller done in Enchanted Evening.

Both are Punches-large by EK Success and smaller by Martha Stewart

The bow was simply tied, with an Enchanted button, to which I added an adhesive rhinestone to the center

Now trust me, this box doesn’t NEED a fancy schmancy handle, but boy it did ADD to the beauty of it

I used a paint can handle (I got it from a purchased paint can!) and a filigree metal flower (from SU!) to dress up the site of insertion Easy Peasy! The TUCK IN style of the lid allows the handle to be used and for it to stay CLOSED! Love that too.

Supplies:

My Timeless Template © Tucked Away

Stamps: Floral Fusion

Cardstock: White, Enchanted Evening, Smokey Shadow, Vellum

Ink: Smokey Shadow, Enchanted Evening, Ripe Avocado

Ribbon: Bitty Dots Enchanted Evening, Wide white organdy (other source)

Vintage Button in Enchanted Evening

Adhesive Rhinestone, and pearls, filigree metal accent by SU!, paint can handle

Butterfly punch (large) by EK Success, Butterfly Punch (small) Martha Stewart

Here is a Pretty Petite version of Tucked Away ©

NOTE: I almost didn’t share this gift, as it is PERSONAL! Since MANY of my reader’s are pet lover’s, I figured it may help someone know what to do for someone during a difficult time like this.

Paw-prints on your heart

With Sympathy and Loss of a Pet was absolutely PERFECT!

One of my best friends lost her dog Bailey. She was just shy of 15 years old. Unless you have loved a pet like that, you cannot imagine the loss. I thought it would be nice to do something for my dear friend to let her know I hurt for her and her family, so I used the Pretty Petite version of the template to hold something special.

On the design I used some epoxy heart stickers for the “blooms”. The mat layer is made from Shimmery White cardstock

I knew they were having her cremated.  As soon as I heard, I ran out to Things Remembered (a favorite store of mine when you want an engraved gift! I spend a LOT of $ there! LOL!) and purchased a placard engraved with their dog Bailey’s name, and the date, so they could put it with her ashes.

This placard is adhesive, so it should be easily attached.

It is just something simple and understated, but totally from the heart.

I think she liked it.

Supplies:

My Timeless Template © Tucked Away

Stamps: With Sympathy, Loss of Pet, Heart shaped borders & corners

Cardstock: Shimmer white, Scarlett Jewel

Ink: Scarlett Jewel, Ripe Avocado, black

Ribbon: Scarlett Jewel bitty dot

other: Epoxy heart stickers

Well, that is all I have to share today!

Don’t worry, there is SOOOOO much more to come this week I think the ideas will really get you in the template mood (OK I HOPE they do! :D)

TIME for a GIVEAWAY: Leave a comment on today’s post for your chance to win Tucked Away © on release night (the 15th)!

Winner will be listed August 13th (my daughter Amber’s  5th Birthday!)

(PS- NO! I didn’t find HELLO KITTY roller skates for her :C But I did get some Barbie ones that I think will pass)

So in the mean time……………

Lots more countdown peeks going on, so visit Nichole for more ideas and creative clicks!

Also  Melissa, Heather, Dawn and Tiffany, will have some FAB eye candy as well using their own releases this month.

Kelly has a project today using Tucked Away, as does this months My Timeless Template Guest Designer-Mona, so be sure to pay them a visit too!

So once again, thank you for taking the time to stop by

Till Tomorrow

Hi everyone!!!

I’m beyond excited to get the Papertrey Ink countdown started!

Now please note that most items featured in today’s post are NEW! (to be released) items from Papertrey Ink. Items will be released August 15th!

It’s the 10th so that means the samples begin,  and I get to start sharing peeks of my NEWEST! My Timeless Templates © (releasing the 15th as well)

We have 2 great and practical templates this month! Each one has a standard template size, and the Pretty Petite version,  also included in ONE download, for only $5! Remember you not only get unlimited use of the printable template, but the Idea Booklet, which includes 5 exclusive project ideas ONLY published for the download The idea book comes with a complete set of supplies and step by step instructions, for completing the samples in the book! Download also includes step by step photos/instructions for assembling your template. EASY PEASY!!

I have the honor of peeking one of Melissa Bickford’s new stamp sets called Sign Language The minute I saw it the ideas just flooded my brain! One idea that stuck out the MOST though, was the idea to combine it with the lastest My Timeless Template © Fold n’ Go!

Now before I share my first peek, let me tell you about the first template being revealed!

About Fold n’ Go!

Sometimes you just want a box with a fun closure! One where the top requires no fancy ribbon or anything else to hold it closed (unless you WANT to add it!), and opens with ease. I have always LOVED Gable style boxes, so I decided to gain some inspiration from that, to make another variation, that is funktified and modernized with a sleeker, less bulky look, and a cool handle. Now to package up a gift, all you have to do is Fold n’ Go!

  Now, you may recall I gave you a little (early) peek at this template—> HERE! This project was inspired by a VERY early creation I made called a Boxed Bag Holder—> HERE! My Boxed Bag holder which was done almost 3 years ago! LOL!

This really is a fun template, that can hold so many amazing and fun gifts for ANYONE, which I will share over the next few days.

Now, on to the sample

A gift for your New Home

The idea for this particular gift, was for to hand deliver, OR hang on the door of our friends, who just moved to their very first NEW home!

I thought that using the Sign Language set, with house image from Boards & Beams was obviously perfection-since the sign is just like some of the yard signs in our neighborhood!

 I wanted the SIGN itself to be the MAIN focus, so I stamped the house image in the new formula of Sweet Blush ink (its awesome!), onto sweet blush cardstock. The flag itself usess a fun technique that I’ll share further down this post.

I adore the ability to mix and match all the “flags” with sentiments for EVERY holiday! There are SO many cute ones too.

I of course chose to use my 2 favorite images for my “yard signs” to convey the message for these house warming gift packages.

I made similar designs-one using the standard template size, and the other using the Pretty Petite version! This just shows you have versatile everything can be, and weather you decide to decorate a standard Fold n’ Go! template or the Pretty Petite version, both are FAB!

Now you may be wondering WHAT I put inside these gift boxes!

I didn’t get to get photos, as I was stopping off to pick up the gifts ON MY WAY to their house warming party, but in the Large version is a Door Knocker that is engraved with their last name, and in the other we put in a gift card to Lowe’s Home Improvement store! Owning a home you will need lots of stops to the home improvement store! LOL!

Now onto the details of my flags…………….

I always enjoy the look of the Epoxy like sticker embellishments you can buy in stores. Problem, they don’t generally suit my project, or MATCH what I want to do!

So I made my own

This is a VERY simple embellishment you can make, that packs a big punch!

1) Stamp your image in a permanent ink.

Color if needed or desired (Use a smudge-proof marker-like Copic’s)

2) Apply a liberal amount of Crystal Effects

3) Allow sufficient time to dry. (My project was dry within an hour)

4) Use a punch or die cut that fits your image

 and punch out

NOTE: The 7/8 square punch fits the flag images from Sign Language perfectly! It even gives you a perfect little border too!

5) Once image is cut-layer onto  project

In this case, it is the hanging part of my sign, in which I stamped the border in Hibiscus Burst ink, and my sentiment in black ink, then trimmed out.

Then I added both of the Epoxy embellishments I made, to my completed projects

They really make a simple sign POP!

This is the butterfly on the Pretty Petite version of the Fold n’ Go! template

Now we have the flower flag image on the completed standard version of the Fold n’ Go! template

Together they make a real WOW! presentation for the perfect gift for those NEW! Home owners.

Now there is NO limit to the size of the epoxy like embellishments you can make! You are also saving so much money too Those sticker sheets can cost upwards of $3 for only a couple of images, that aren’t tailored to YOUR project!

Another option would be taking a page pebble, and add it over your image! Only “problem” would be that you are limited to the shape & size of your page pebble, and it does cost more to use them.

This is just a fun and easy way to really add another WOW! element to your completed template or card projects!

Well that is it for me. I’m excited to hear your thoughts about today’s projects!

Giveaway: Just leave me a comment here, and enter to win the Fold n’ Go template on Release night!

Winner will be posted on the 13th (my daughter Amber’s birthday!)

Lots more countdown peeks going on, so visit Nichole for more ideas and creative clicks! I also believe Melissa, Heather, Dawn and Tiffany(her first stamp set debut for PTI!) will have some eye candy as well!  (I hope I’m not forgetting anyone :C)

Kelly has a *peek* at her project using Fold n’Go! today, as does this months My Timeless Template Guest Designer-Mona, so be sure to pay them a visit too!

More to come tomorrow as I reveal my next template for the month of August! Oh and have a giveaway for that one as well!

Supplies:

My Timeless Template: Fold N’ Go!

Stamps: Sign Language, Boards and Beams

Cardstoock: Hibiscus Burst, Sweet Blush, White, Black

Patterned Paper: Bitty Dots 2008

Ink: Black , Hibiscus Burst and Copic Markers

Ribbon: Hibiscus Burst

Vintage Buttons: Black

other: corner rounder, 7/8 square, crystal effects, scallop punch, 1 1/4 circle punch

Calling all dog lovers!

I have a project, just for you

What a fun filled day I have here.

Today is the release for Pink Cat Studio-Fairy Friends

Isn’t it SO cute?!!

I had a blast using it.

I THINK I saved the best for last with this one!!

What I am really excited about are the 2 projects I created using it, and the fact that I ACTUALLY got a video done for you! (I know its been a while! But they are quite time consuming)

I did my best to keep it short and sweet, so that I could post it on YouTube! You all know how LONG winded I can be, so staying UNDER 10 minutes is a NIGHTMARE for me! :C But I got it done, and *just* under 10 minutes-WHEW! I had to cut out my banter that I often put as the intro to the video, to get it done. I know, you don’t need to see me blabbering on and on anyhow, so I’ll type some of what I said instead.

So let me tell you what is in store for ya!

A few weeks ago, I asked for any feedback you wanted to offer on My Timeless Templates ©. Well, all you animal lovers asked for PET specific templates, to package up stuff for our furry friends, OR furry friend lovers!

Now sure exactly WHAT type of market is out there for PET/Animal theme stuff, but I did have an idea to hold you over till I have the AH! HA! moment (which I am totally NOT promising will ever even happen :C)

The Dog Fairy was PERFECTION for executing this idea too.

I used The Perfect Match © Box template, to create an ADORABLE Hydrant themed gift box! This box was designed, based on a  card I did —> HERE!

(OK while searching my blog I also found a cute 3D photo card I made of my own dog —->HERE! LOL!)

So here we go

See how amazingly versatile the My Timeless Templates can be?!

Now here are some photos of the projects (those who are peeking in from work! LOL!) to hold you over until you view the video!

Now I did two of the same design-one girly and the other more boyish. I will post photos of each so you can see how easy it can be changed up.

Girly Ter*RUFF*ic front

Boyish Front

Girly Side View

Boyish Side View

Side 2

Now this is what I have packaged up-inside

I put a homemade dog cookie, with the dog bone shaped cookie cutter, in this gift box

You could also package up just the mix, and let the person make the cookies them-self!

You could put a personalized dog tag in there, for the new puppy owner……..or have a dog themed kids party (like Clifford or some other dog like Bolt!) and make these the “doggy bags” filled with “doggy treats”!

No matter what you do for this, its seriously, way cute! (Or at least I think it is :D)

Well that is it for me today! Im working feverishly on NEW! Templates for the PTI release! YIPEE!

See ya tomorrow.