Get it? Keeping Tabs & It’s on the House shared together.

OK I admit, sometimes my excitement gets the best of me!!!!

Are you ready for MORE peeks using the NEWEST My Timeless Template © release??

Remember, then 2  templates featured today are not available until the 15th

I decided I would share some FALL themed items! Thanksgiving is around the corner, and it IS Autumn here in New Hampshire, so why not celebrate?

These gift ideas are sure to WARM you up (wink!), even though we are “technically” gearing up for Christmas, I have the urge to do some fall themed projects.

First up-Giving Thanks Duo

You are looking at a gift set created using  the Keeping Tabs © templates.

I really like sharing both template sizes (standard fitting A2 cards, and Pretty Petite perfect for 3×3 and other larger items), side by side, yet designed the same. It shows how versatile the stamps can be, and how easy it is to use the same design elements on various sized packages! It also shows that big or small, these templates look FABULOUS!

I have to say I’m HEAD over HEELS for the NEW! Autumn Abundance themed papers 😀 I just got mine and have been DYING to play with them! So expect to see a couple projects with this new paper line!

Now lets get to WHAT is inside!

We obviously know that cards are a definite fit for this template, so I’m working on “other” ideas to get your creative gift ideas flowing!

First I will share the large/standard version

I love this! Truly a masculine gift! OR anyone really! It just oozes Autumn.

Taking from the paper the oak leaves, I used my SLICE Back to School cartridge to die cut my own, from patterned paper, in various sizes, for my tag decor.

I scored them, and distressed them with the tea dye ink duo. I’m addicted to these berry bundles I bought at Michael’s a few weeks ago! They are adding such a FAB element to my latest creations. A CHEAP and simple touch. I even usedMy Punny Valentine for the acorn (covered with a page pebble)-which is also found on Oak trees 😀

Sentiment is from Autumn Abundance set.

Now we open it up….

Well, what do we have here?

OH! On the left-2 individually wrapped Chocolate Almond Biscotti!

A perfect companion for our other pocket of YUM (and they aren’t too bad for you :D)

Then on the right  pocket we have 4 SCRUMPTIOUS Lindt Cocoa packets-WITH 4 Lindt chocolate SPOONS!

(yes part of my HUGE purchase at the Lindt store :D) Cocolate SPOONS! Does it get any better? I think NOT!

OMGosh! Could you just DIE! How YUM-azing is that for a gift?! Seriously! I had all I could do to NOT make myself a cup of this mix immediately 😀

OK now onto the Pretty Petite version-just as scrumptious!

I love the size of this particular one! Totally cute and EASY!

As you can see, same design, just left off the “acorns” Too big and bulky for this one.

Leaves were die cut using a smaller version as well. EASY PEASY!

Have I told you that Orange Zest is AMAZING?! Im beyond in love with it.

Sentiment here is from Vintage Picnic (LOVE that set).

Now, let’s peek at what is inside here

I found this box of Merci Chocolates. They are like truffle bars!

I can vouch that they are so delicious! There is a variety pack of various “flavors”. Oh man! I wanted to eat them ALL! But I was a good girl and limited myself to like 2.

I have to say I like my box MUCH better than the original packaging.

As you can see each pocket holds 8 chocolate truffle bars-easily.

Who wouldn’t want to open this box of heaven?!

Best part is this decadent box of chocolates was only like $5 at Target, tastes fab, and you have MORE than enough to fill this template and sample a handful or two too!

Supplies:

My Timeless Template: Keeping Tabs

Stamps:My Punny Valentine, Autumn Abundance, Vintage Picnic

Cardstock: Dark Chocolate, Orange Zest, vintage cream

Patterned Paper: Bitty box basics, Autumn Abundance

ink: tea dye ink duo, dark chocolate

Ribbon: Orange zest

Slice cartidge/machine-Back to School

tag punch, SEI brad

Now we will go to the “It’s on the House” template.

Let me WARN you now, that you are going to see me using this one A LOT! Its SUPER cute, and EASY to work with! It will easily become a favorite! I already have so many variations made to share this month!

I promised you it wasn’t *just* a house, but a FAB template for packaging up just about anything you see fit, and just running with a fun (non-house) design!

Now I will prove it.

OK, go with me here!

Think teachers, co-workers, neighbors, mailman, someone, ANYONE really. Near of far…….young or old………

Breezy Autumn day, after apple picking, or some warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream………

A warm cup of Spiced Apple Cider!

Now THIS is a fab box for such a gift!

(YES! This template also has a pretty petite version-I just haven’t used it yet! Patience! :D)

You saw this template made as it’s name suited- a house, and now you can view it as a great template for all sorts of gifts!

6 packets of this Cider, easily fit like a DREAM! What a cute gift.

Now this is a great “apple” themed teacher gift I could get on board with! Teachers love consumables .Or so my teacher friends tell me.

Now you can also see this template with a window of another kind, cut in the front!

The perfect little peek at what is inside!

Also another gender neutral design.

I love the apple berry detail at the top of the ribbon too 😀 A simple and fun touch.

Can you imagine the teacher coming in to school and seeing this on her desk?

She would be giddy!  (I think! LOL!)

I’m excited because this is the first time I packaged Apple Cider. I’m just over the moon for this one.

Supplies:

My Timeless Template: It’s on the House

Stamps: 2009 Autumn Tags

Cardstock:vintage cream, spring moss, pure poppy, dark chocolate, clearly creative cardstock

Patterned paper: Green Tea Leaves, First Fruits

ink: Pure poppy, ripe avocado, dark chocolate

ribbon:gold, and other gld trim from craft store

vintage buttons

scallop nestability, berry, tag die, label punch, 1/2 inch punch, gold brad

Well that is it for me today!

The fun is just beginning, as I have so much more to share. Tune back in tomorrow-

In the meantime, check out  Nicholes samples today!! Also sharing is Michelle,  Melissa, Beth Silaika and Dawn McVey.

Today we all have a group post to share!

These are always so fun for me, as I think you can really see how each person on the team is special in their own way! Hopefully between all of us, you can find something that suits your fancy 😀 and this helps get you started on getting ready (EARLY!) for your own home-made holiday gift ideas!

The idea behind this group post was to share something homemade, practical, heartfelt and economical!

I cannot even tell you how excited I am with my project today 😀 Seriously!

To me, nothing says heartfelt like great homemade gift packaging 😀  I personally love giving and receiving such gifts. Another thing I also LOVE is chocolate! Preferably chocolate treats that I didn’t have to make!! I usually try to package up something I can buy in bulk, that MOST people enjoy, then divide it up!

For my gifts this year, I got a great deal, and stocked up.

Here is the ECONOMICAL PART: I was tipped off ,by my friend Tracey, that Lindt Chocolates was having a Anniversary sale. Check it out –>HERE!

Buy 60 truffles, get 60 FREE! That is ONLY 0.25 cents a piece! WAHOO! You can pick and choose whatever you want!

I spent $98 at that store! With everything on sale, they said it would have come to $219! HUGE SAVINGS to me 😀

 Plus,who doesn’t love those chocolates?! AND, if they don’t, its a respectable re-gift item MALE or FEMALE!!

So I bought my fill, and rushed home to make my gift! OK so THAT isn’t HOMEMADE! But that is SO me-homemade packaging for store bought items! LOL!

I wasn’t sure what I was going to package my chocolates in. I have SO many fab My Timeless Templates ©, it was hard to choose. I decided I would just start wrapping up some  cello bags of chocolates, to ensure I had gotten enough for everyone, then I would worry about the gift packaging.

Well I separated my chocolate, then made this tag!

Totally retro, fun and funky holiday colors…..

Lindt chocolate colors of the Raspberry, Peanut Butter, and Mint chocolate flavors.

I ADORE this stocking image! I used elements from Vintage picnic to FILL my stocking! Cute huh?

It was THIS tag that gave me that LIGHTBULB-AH! HA! moment for my heartfelt, homemade gift!

As I was coloring the image I said out loud-“Oh my gosh! I LOVE IT!! I wish I had a Christmas Stocking like this!”

Well, no sooner did the words leave my lips (and yes, I admit, I often talk to myself when creating! Its a process OK!) I remembered my FREE! My Timeless Template : Stocking Stuffer! <—Now THAT is definitely economical!

So I ran up to my computer! Printed my template onto COPY paper.

 I grabbed my UBER cheap-o sewing machine (Its was $5 at RiteAid after Christmas last year!), and some black felt, that cost 0.35 CENTS, and layered the template onto my (folded in half) piece of black felt.

Ran it through my sewing machine, using the copy paper as my SEW on pattern, and in like 3 minutes, I had a stocking!

NOTE: Do NOT sew the top!

Once sewn, I trimmed a 1/4 inch border around the outside edge.

Since felt doesn’t FRAY I wanted the sewing to be shown. Plus I think I did a great job on it 😀

I then ripped off the paper, and added my cuff, with sewn ribbon detail.

At this point Im freaking out with excitement!

Now-time to add the flowers, like in my tag. I scoured my stamping supplies and found all sorts of felt flowers in colors to match! (see hoarding is NOT always a bad thing-I had the felt colors I wanted/needed and felt flowers to match too!) So I got out my hot glue gun, and got work.

Now for the WHOPPING cost of well UNDER $1…….here is the end result of my labor of love

Isn’t it so pretty?

I am SO happy with this. What a fab gift for ANYONE! You could even let the kids decorate their own (minus hot glue gun).

 Now this stocking can be kept around ALL year! I was going to give this one away, but I may keep it for me. I plan on creating these for gifts, but each being different. I NEVER repeat designs. Makes me ill! LOL! Everything is ONE OF A KIND!

This project took about 20 minutes to make! How FAB is that?!  (not including tag)

That includes design concept! Once you get going there is NO stopping you 😀 You don’t even have to have expert sewing skills! TRUST ME!

Just go SLOW around the toe, and you are GOLDEN!

Here are the flower details-totally inspired by my tag

I used the leaf ribbon for that detail.

Flower centers are buttons, bella bling, and adhesive rhinestones. 

Just so easy!

Supplies
My Timeless Template: FREE Stocking Stuffer Tag:
Stamps: Stocking Prints, Vintage Picnic, Polka Dot Basics 2, Holiday Treats
Cardstock: White, Black, Raspberry Fizz, Tangerine
Patterned paper: Bitty box basics
Ink: Black, Copic markers
Embroidery floss in pink & green
Slice machine and Studio Design Essentials cartidge
other-gel pen in pink, orange and blackStocking:
My Timeless Template: Stocking Stuffer
Sewing machine
Black & pink felt
Ribbon: True black polka dot, stitched, Leaf ribbon, Raspberry Fizz grosgrain
Vintage buttons, Felt flowers
embroidery floss in black
Bella dot in silver
Leaf/berry additions from Michaels Craft Store
Bag of Lindt ChocolatesNow, I’m not done yet! I have my card to share.

It used a new stamp set from this month’s Papertrey Ink Release: Tree Trimming

O’ Papertrey Tree

I love all the ornaments that came in the set. It was so hard to pick and choose WHAT I wanted to do!

You could use the ornaments, add buttons, bling, punched patterned paper……OH! I could go on and on!

Overall, I kept it simple.

Stamped my tree in olive ink, then added “snowfallen” ground using polka dot basics 2. By taking my Scor-Tape and applying it along the bottom I was able to then add glitter in a cinch!

I added my adhesive rhinestones, along the curvy lines, for them to appear to be a string of holiday lights. Now, for the twinkly light look, ran the layer through my die cut machine so they would “crackle”. The pressure from the die cut breaks them but the adhesive holds them together on the tree. Its really cool in person, and I totally recommend giving it a try.

I then went on to add my 3D, 1/2 inch punched ornaments.

Of course I needed BUTTONS too.

Just a simple design with this fun, new set!

WHEW! Are you sick of my blabbering yet?! Yikes! See what happens when I get excited?

OK totally ending now-

Be sure to visit the Design Teams blogs:

Tomorrow I will return with more peeks at the NEW! My Timeless Templates: It’s on the House and Keeping Tabs! I have been busy working on so many ideas for you.

Also I am having Kristen host the My Time To Inspire challenge today, as I didn’t even get my own challenge done :C BAD HOST!!

 So check in with her-OK! As well as the other girls

Till tomorrow

Well we are on day 2 of the Papertrey Ink Countdown!

That means I will share the 2nd template for this month’s release!

I could do a cartwheel right now.

I have to say I am completely OVER THE MOON for this project 😀 as it takes the template name quite literal!

Now keep in mind this can be made into MANY fab “general use” gift boxes, but I HAD to make the sample I did.

The next My Timeless Template  is called ……..

It’s on the House © (release is September 15th!)

Given it’s name, I couldn’t resist decorating *just* like one!

 About It’s on the House

I just cut scallop strips to add to the front of the box design, as my “awning”.

 This cute little template is SURE to hit a home run with everyone! 

It received the name because of its shape! It looks like half of a house.

This is the side view. I have to say that I love the punched fence going around the house box 😀 The tied ribbon being the “grass”, and the overall easy “house” I was able to create in minutes.

Obviously i could NOT resist the play on words!

Now you can totally run with that idea, and decorate it just like a house front, as I have here, or just have fun playing with this fun shaped box, which has a fun folded flap closure.

TRUST ME-if all you can see this template for is a “house” I will share with you this week the MANY other design possibilities this really has.

  As you can see the top flap folds down. I used magnetic closures on this one. This template holds this yummy bag of sugared jelly fruit candy. Matching colors I might add 😀 

This template goes together easily, and has unlimited possibilities! You can package so many amazing things in this one, and the design options are endless.

Now check out the close up

See the fruit candy IN the window?

What do you think of that UBER cute skunk sniffing the flowers?!

OH! and LOOK! Curtains made from ribbon 😀 My FAVORITE detail yet.

Can it get any cuter or easier? Seriously this box took about 40 minutes to make, and that is ONLY because I had no idea WHAT I was going to do and HOW to execute it. Now you can see my version, so it could go MUCH quicker for you 😀

You can cut a variety of windows into the box bottom, or just decorate the front. NO! I don’t mean HOUSE windows either! I just mean regular cut outs if you like 😀

Add to the design by punching a variety or borders along the top, tie it closed with ribbon….you get the idea!

No matter who’s home this goes to, it will be adored!

I cannot wait to show you the other projects I have using this template. You are sure to get inspired, and will want one for yourself! You may get sick of seeing me use it even! I have already made so much with it 😀

Supplies:

My Timeless Template: It’s on the House

Stamps: Boards and Beams, Forest Friends

Cardstock: Lemon Tart, Dark Chocolate, Clearly Creative (for windows), Berry Sorbet, Pure Poppy

Ink: Black, Pure Poppy

Ribbon: Pure Poppy Stitched, bitty dots new leaf, white embroidery floss

Other: flower punch, mini flowers by Prima, ribbon flowers, adhesive pearls, basic grey magnets

Label by SU!, corner rounder, fence border punch by Martha Stewart

Now if you want to see more with this template hop over to Kelly Lunceford- Template Team, and our Template Guest Designer Alyssa!

Obviously you will want to check out  Nicholes samples today!! Also sharing is Melissa, Beth Silaika and Dawn McVey.

Thank you all for stopping by and sharing your feedback! I so enjoy reading your comments and emails! I cannot tell you how much I truly enjoy sharing all this with you, and my excitement each month! Especially when you share YOUR projects with me 😀

So thank you to each and every one of you, reading this, for popping by 😀

It’s the 10th!! I think by now you know what that means here on my blog!

The FIRST of MANY peeks and ideas for the Papertrey Ink Release Countdown 😀 and peeks of my 2 newest My Timeless Templates ©

I cannot tell you how excited I get every month. Granted the first week of the month I’m working like a MAD woman, HOPING to inspire you with some great ideas to get you jump started. It’s ALWAYS nerve wracking as I try to top my last months projects. Fingers crossed 😀

I will say you all help me strive to better my best 😀 I LOVE a challenge, and thrive on being busy. I feel like the busier I am, the more creative I get. It’s weird. I don’t know what to do when I’m NOT running around. I can’t handle QUIET. Thank goodness because my life has always been full of everything BUT that!

OK I know you are TOTALLY over my blabbering on, so I’m going to just get to it OK!

PLEASE NOTE: Release of stamp set and My Timeless Template is September 15th!

Supplies listed/linked at post bottom 😀

I’m  happy to share that my design with this template is a peek of a New! stamp set Peaceful Poinsettia by

Melissa Bickford . Check her BLOG for more samples with this set.

Season’s Greetings Set

I love matchy matchy gift sets, and this one is so prefect for the holidays!

I love Sweet Blush, Pure Poppy, Spring Moss, and Ripe Avocado for holiday gifts!

This set is just so pretty, and the best part-EASY to work with!!!! I just adore Melissa’s sets to pieces. and her style is so ME! Oh, and I’m sure so YOU too!

Here is the card

I used the tag image from the set to create 2 different tags-one on my card, the other on the box.

While using the tag I stamped my sentiment in Ripe Avocado, and then the poinsettias (they are a separate stamp trio :D)in pure poppy ink, on my sweet blush strip, adding gold adhesive pearls to their centers! A very easy way to add to the POP of the tag .

I also used the border image along my template, in which I dotted my border flowers centers with a gold pen.

The large layering poinsettia flower was used to make my very own brad embellishment for the center of my Poinsettia flower on my gift box!

More on that…keep reading!

So this month’s My Timeless Template is named: Keeping Tabs ©

We have the standard size, and will also offer the Pretty Petite version as well!!

Today’s peek shares the standard size version.

About Keeping Tabs ©

I am always looking for really neat ways to “un-wrap” or reveal what is inside a gift I package. When it does reveal your gift in a fun way, it makes it so much fun!

This amazing box is held closed on the side, by inserting 2 tabs into the back. You cannot even see them! They just tuck right in there, effortlessly!

(That is how this template received its name)

Now to add even more detail, it is tied closed (that is of course optional) with some of that stunning ribbon, we all tend to hoard! Making this so pretty couldn’t get any easier.

Now I am SURE you want to know HOW I made that stunning brad in the center of my sparkly poinsettia flower, so here is a Video on that

Isn’t that the COOLEST tool ever?

I love the I Top! You can find it –> HERE!

Now opening our template……

Untie the ribbon

Lift the lid

and…….

Look how much this can hold!!

Its FULL of fun, and yum!

Once unfolded. the template has 2 pretty pockets, that are a very nice size.

The front flap design, as well as the 2 pockets inside, have killer curves, that once again add to the WOW! factor.

One other GREAT detail-you cannot see any of this “messy” stuff when this box is complete.

Like all the My Timeless Templates ©, this one was made so you can EASILY assemble it! 

As a card maker, we can never have too many ways to package our precious paper masterpieces! I am happy to announce that this is another great take on card packaging!! 

The standard Keeping Tabs © template can hold your standard A2 cards and envelopes. It is also perfect for MANY other gift ideas! 

The Pretty Petite version is perfect for our 3×3 envelopes and cards/tags, or many other fun size treats! More on that to come 😀

 Now don’t get stuck thinking it is ONLY good for cards! You can package so many different items in here. This template will leave you wondering what you can Keep Tabs on next.

So to show you something besides card packaging I thought I’d make a nice gift set for a Party Hostess or someone special! Maybe even a Yankee Swap?

So, all opened up…..

We have tea!

Yes! You are seeing correctly.

Our Clearly Creative Card Boxes fit IN this one Can you imagine the FAB wraps you can now make JUST using the pockets of this template, for your card boxes, or other items you like to stuff in them…..like my packages of Green Tea

Our decorative mat layer helps you make a perfect and professional cut, every time!

Now in the other pocket (on the right), one of my FAVE treats

Pirouline Cookie Duo Packs! Each package has 2 cookie stix at 100 calories total 😀 YUM!!

So once your template is filled, you just wrap it all up, and you are off and running!
Its a great holder for SOOOOO many things.
 

Well, what do you think? I would love to hear your feedback 😀

Supplies:

My Timeless Template © Keeping Tabs

Stamps: Peaceful Poinsettia

Cardstock: White, Sweet Blush, Pure Poppy, Ripe Avocado

Patterned paper: Holiday Vintage Prints, Bitty Box Basics

Ink:  Sweet Blush. Berry Sorbet,Pure Poppy, Ripe Avocado

Ribbon: Pure Poppy stitched & twill

Tools: I Topp tool, brads, punch, tag punch by Marvy

Nestability: Ribbon Tags Trio Two

Apron border punch, pinking border by EK Success

Other: Glittery poinsettia from Michaels, Brads by SEi, Adhesive Pearls by Hero Arts, Clearly Creative Card box

I hope you like what I had to share so far! There is so much more to come 😀 I have had ideas flowing like crazy!!

Now if you want to see more with this template hop over to Kelly Lunceford- Template Team

Don’t miss Nicholes samples today!! She always WOWS us! Oh!  and Beth Silaika releases her FIRST set with Papertrey Ink this month! Also hop over Dawn McVey’s blog, as she peeks her set too!

So that is all for today. Tomorrow I will share an AMAZING sample with my other My Timeless Template © got this month, so stay tuned.

OK I gotta make it quick today 😀 Lots to do on the last day of a LONG weekend

Tonight is the official release for C.C. Designs!! Stamps go LIVE 10pm EST!

Winner of the HOP to be announced SOON!

How did you all like the hop? Was it fun? Lots of eye candy to go around.

 Well now that you all got to hop along and see what the entire team created with the Fall Kit, and now I have 2 more samples to share with you 😀 (Boy I was a creating machine huh?! LOL!)

First up

Pretty Petal Pumkin Patch

How cute is this?!

The My Timeless Template: Pretty Petal Pocket © makes THE perfect pumpkin!!

I know many people have already discovered that 😀 How cute would this be for classmates to use as a Trick or Treat holder, OR give to the teacher?!

This image is Pixie Pippi (releasing tonight)

I have been sitting on this sample for about a month or so!!! Its so hard to have to wait to share stuff sometimes! I filled it up with a grab bag of candy! WOW! This template holds MORE than enough for all the “little” people to eat! They truly don’t need more than that!

I hand cut the stem and layered on some OLD SU! patterned paper. Made my pumpkin easy peasy.

The sentiment on the tag is AmyR’s Spooky Sentiments. Again perfect for the gift!

Now I have ONE more……

Witch Way to the Treat!

This one used the Witch from the Fall Kit 😀

I LOVED the sentiment from JustRite Stampers:Witch Way to the Treats Centers & Borders Round 1-3/16”

This template was the Pretty Petite version of the Fold n ‘Go! A great one for making a bunch of homemade treat holders 😀

OK that does it for me.

 Stay tuned because I have a month full of gift-giving inspiration to come!

WOW! It is September ALREADY! Time for a Papertrey Ink Senior Design Team Challenge.

These are always so fun, and really get me thinking.

Before you know it Halloween will be here, and gone! Never too soon to start thinking WHAT you will do!

 Nichole posed such a challenge for the team this month-Make a small Halloween treat!

I thought of WOWING you all with some fancy treat idea. I actually found a TON of really cool stuff to make. I wanted to top myself from last years treats in which I actually made—> EDIBLE EYEBALLS! As I searched, and agonized over WHAT to do, I asked myself “Would I actually MASS PRODUCE these treats for my kids classmates?” Given the fact I loathe cooking, the HONEST answer would be NO! Then it occurred to me…….if you are ANYTHING like me, then you are BUSY, (maybe you don’t enjoy cooking either) money may be tight, and if you have more than a handful of people that you want to spoil with something (like your co-workers, neighborhood party/trick or treaters, your own children’s classmates/teachers-let alone the fact if you have MORE than one child that can really add up!) you really don’t have enough hours in the day (or energy) to slave over something.

I wanted a SIMPLE WOW! 

 SO……today I will share my true to life treats! This is a SUPER tasty treat that is QUICK, EASY, and INEXPENSIVE! Totally up my alley! It focuses on the PRESENTATION (which I thoroughly enjoy working on far more than cooking :D)

It takes a simple bag of MICROWAVE popcorn (directions below :D) and turns it into a gourmet treat that is loved by everyone! You can make it for ANY occasion and you can also let your children do most of the work 😀 (I love it even more now!)

Now here are the 2 ideas that JUMPED into my head 😀 Both use my template Pretty Petite version of Pack a Picnic 😀

So, first up…….A Witches Cauldron

filled with a Popcorn Potion!

I turned the Pretty Petite version of the My Timeless Template-Pack a Picnic into a Cauldron in MINUTES!!

 NOTE: You can also take this same idea and make ONE huge Witches Cauldron (using the standard version of Pack a Picnic) to hold all your Halloween  bags of popcorn potion, rather than do individual templates for each person/child.

I printed the template onto Smokey Shadow cardstock.

Prior to assembling, I stamped the black cat from Spooky Sweets II, onto the front.

I used a singlo white gel pen for the eyes, then dotted the centers black. Made the nose pink 😀 So cute and easy peasy.

I then cut, scored and assembled as directed.

Then it was time to add the pot handles 😀

I just used my word window punch and folded the paper punched pieces around some jump rings.

I attached them to the pot using silver brads! Perfect pot handles!

I then wanted the Cauldron to appear to be boiling over!

So green stickels to the rescue! Just drizzle large amounts around the entire top!

Let dry a couple hours (its a lot of glittery glue! SO worth it)

In the meantime you can make your Popcorn Potion, package it into the bags, and then make your tags!

My tag images/sentiments are also from Spooky Sweets II.

I put the bag into the Cauldron, and added 2 chocolate eyeballs! The eyeballs and creepy hand (a huge gummy candy that was actually DELISH! LOL!) were bought at Michael’s Craft store-just add to the fun!

Now I have another idea 😀 and this one is WAY easy.

This SAME template made the CUTEST pumpkin!

Seriously HOW CUTE is that?

Again you can make a LARGE version too 😀

In case you are KICKING yourself for NOT having Spooky Sweets II (there is plenty of time to order it :D) I decided to use Spooky Sweets (first edition!) for this one.

The NEW! Hocus Pocus paper was perfect for making my pumpkin have some POP!

I adore the “make your own pumpkin face” images in that set, and it was SO prefect for this one!

I just stamped and cut out the eyes-adding some BLING 😀 For the mouth I just used oval punches.

I then tied around some ripe avocado grosgrain for the topper

Then filled with my popcorn potion

Now you may be wondering-HOW do you make the POPCORN POTION?!

Well, in just a few minutes you can have a LOT of YUM!!

Popcorn Potion

All you need is some Microwave popcorn (or pre-popped popcorn)

Chocolate melting waffers in colors of choice (I chose orange, green and milk choc. only $3 for a large bag that goes a LONG way!!!)

Note: Usually 3 colors is perfect-o!

Directions:

Pop (or pour out) as much popcorn as you need.

Pour Popcorn onto parchment or wax paper-remove kernals!!!!

Let COOL completely!

Melt chocolate wafers in squeeze bottles.

Squirt generously over popcorn.

Let chocolate cool.

Package into baggies!

DONE

This project is SOOOOO easy my kids actually made it themselves:D

I did a video of this venture, and it was such a FUNNY disaster, that I decided to NOT share it! After-all, I’m trying to be PROFESSIONAL here! LOL! Anything that COULD go wrong did! But my kids did make the popcorn, and they made their own versions of the Pumpkin templates!!

NOTE: ALL the templates make FAB kid project in one way or another 🙂

Top: Amber

Bottom left: Noah

 Bottom Right: Alexa

I just assembled the templates FLAT, let them decorate (they stamped the faces and colored), then we put them together.  You could have your kids do ALL of it! From making the popcorn (each of my kids had a color) to decorating the templates!

You can make a couple a day and let them decorate them-OR just assemble the template BLANK and let the kids you give them to decorate them for them-self.

ANOTHER idea-the LARGE version could be your child’s Trick or Treat container too 😀

Pretty cool huh?

Can you tell I make my kids do lots of crafts? That means more craft time for me if they do! LOL!

More photos of the kids pumpkins

They had fun and were so proud.

As soon as the photo was done the popcorn got eaten.

Bottom line-this was so FUN, inexpensive, , and got the kids involved- as it was total hands on! I love that. Oh and the popcorn really is YUMMY!!! We demolish a huge bag of it 😀

Now it is time to go check out what the team did-

and check out our Guest Designer : Teri Anderson

I HOPE you liked my projects 😀 I really wanted to share something do-able and affordable. I’d love to hear what you thought.

I’ll see you back here tomorrow as I have TONS to share this week 😀

Until then

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.

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