Poppy Paperie

Summer Button Recycled Fun!

One of the fun things about summer is having that little extra time with the kids to go through their clothes and weed out what doesn't fit of is needing a funeral from the workable attire. Last week I shared with you a little stamping I did with a scrap from Ella's worn out Jeans. Today I'm going to share with you the Inspiration for that idea... it's a projects I've been working on for a few weeks, a little at a time and finished it up just in time for this post! 

Ella is skinny. It's just a fact. Her jeans last a good year... but morph into Capri's after about 6 months... before she gets too wide for them they are in shreds from over use...She can still wear her 3T shorts this summer... and she's 6. (Ella is screaming in the background..."SIX AND AH HAFFF!" lol!) When summer came I started cutting off the blown out knees/pant legs and just as I was about to chuck one into the garbage I felt a brain pause. YES! that little leg would make the cutest purse! I couldn't stop with just decorating the purse though...The pants made perfect knee shorts!

I started off by cutting off the legs and trimming the blown out knee area's away...

 

I turned the trimmed leg inside out and sewed the bottom together. Next I snipped the excess fabric that's outside of the seam to make it more mailable when being used.

 

Next I sewed around the short leg. This  helps keep frayed ends from unraveling too much.

I intentionally frayed the ends as part of the decoration.

Here is a full shot of my machine... a few people asked what I used so I thought I would just snap a photo.  A sewing friend recommended that I take a sharpie and write my "best" settings on the machine... so I don't forget. That was an invaluable tip!

 

The next step is to decide what Vintage buttons to use and set them up.(I used Spring Moss, Hibiscus Burst, Spring Rain, Aqua Mist and Summer Sunrise.) I used Fabri-Tac to adhere them first...

Then used embroidery floss to stitch them on.  I just LOVE the playfulness of the buttons! I did the same with the purse.

I thought it would be fun for Ella to have a little note pad that would fit in her little purse.

the  local office supply store had these little spirals that I love. The side spirals are harder to find. I un-coiled the binding and recovered the front with Raspberry Fizz Mix pattern paper... gotta make it pretty huh! I also used Bitty Dots and Bitty Boxes paper.

Day at the Beach is such a great summer set. I love the font mixture and these flip flops (I actually call them flopper-hoppers for some reason, LOL!) I thought it was a fitting image since Ella will for wearing them when she wears her little purse and shorts.

I debated covering the entire purse... but thought that it might actually get too heavy for her. The Hibiscus Burst Ribbon was adhered then hand stitched for a little extra strength.

Here she is all decked out in her little outfit, ready for a summer day (Which we are NOT having today!) Aren't those buttons adorable. I love how Papertrey Ink gives us such a wide variety and the colors are to die for! *in button heaven* 

What fun things have you been making with your buttons?

I hope you've enjoyed today's project. Tomorrow starts the countdown for Papertrey Ink's July release... including my newest two sets! See you tomorrow!

Thanks for poppy-ing by!

July 2009 Sneak Peek!

July has been a great month so far... and it's just getting better! This month I have not one but TWO stamp sets being released by Papertrey Ink! Here is a little sneak Peek that Nichole shared on her site, along with some fun thoughts...

I've loved stamping with it so far... The illustrations translate so well when inked and stamped... I just squealed when stamped that first image! A few little Design team birdies have shared with me how this set is going to be one of their favorite POPPYprints stamp sets! A few words I would use to describe it would be Fun, Modern, Quaint, Quirky and Friendly! I can't wait to hear what you think!

Make sure to come back on July 10th-15th and check out the sample projects I will be sharing!
see you then, thanks for poppy-ing by!

Fun with Fabric!

July 1st! I'm SO excited for this month... and it starts off with a bang with Papertrey Ink's Sr. Design Team Challenge! This month's assignment is all about fabric... imagine what swirled in our creative brains! A plethora of possibilities! Onto my project...

I've been going through Ella's clothes... handing down the last of the Johnson girl clothes and donating others. Some things were worn beyond hope... Jeans specifically! She just blew out the knees in so many because of her Energizer Bunny behavior. I started recreating items with them, since she is SO skinny that they still fit around her bitty waist, and this stamping idea occurred to me for some of the scraps...

Damask Designs is such an elegant yet trendy set... I love the unique patterns! I instantly thought of it when I thought about stamping on denim and don't they look cool in Fresh Snow ink!! After I created this I had a strong desire to stamp an entire pair of jeans! LOL! The jeans had natural distressing and striations too, an extra bonus. So many possibilities huh! I used Pure Poppy and Spring Rain ink and Cardstock to complement the denim. :)

Isn't it fun! I made this sweet card for a neighbor that has been a great friend lately. I wanted something cheerful and playful. Don't those Spring Rain buttons look fantastic on the stamped fabric! (just wait 'til I show you what I made with the other pair of jeans in a few weeks!)

The Hello sentiment and Flowers are from Out of The Box. I love how I can use that square image with the Borders & Corners {Squares} dotted outline. The Neighbor sentiment is from Limitless Labels.

IT WAS SO FUN TO STAMP TOO! :) You've GOT to play with some... do some creative recycling!!!

Here are the links to the other Papertrey Ink Sr. Design team members, Wendy Sue and Nichole... you are in for a treat!

• Becky
• Heather
• Lauren
• Mish
• Nichole
• Wendy Sue

Thanks for poppy-ing by!

p.s. don't forget that the PTI sneak peeks start July 5th and countdowns start July 10th. *giddy*

Raspberry Apple....

Sounds like a yummy combination huh!... well I think it is... even if it's in color and image, and not real fruit.This last week I was all about 5 minute cards. I sometimes feel bad giving these... especially when my kids so openly share about my publications and design work. I worry that I need to give extravagant cards. I just couldn't pull it off with everything that's been going on on life... and Hubby being out of town. But... to be honest, I like these simple, quick lovelies better than the 2 hr. Cards. (for both giving and receiving.) Here's what I came up with for Pepper's teacher.

Unfortunately I didn't get to snap a photo of her that day... I couldn't be in two places at once. :) I hope her teacher liked her card though. I thought it would be fun to combine the circle paper from the Black & White Basics and Bitty Dots Sweet Blush  pattern paper with a raspberry Fizz apple from Teacher's Apple. I like how the different patterns work so well together. I thought a modern color scheme would be a fun change with this set!

Well, Summer break is in full session. I've been trying really hard to get into a schedule so that the days just don't melt away. We are doing pretty good... I'm being a bit of a nut about the morning and my kids aren't sure about it all yet, but I personally can see good things already! Here is our schedule...

·         8:00 WAKE UP

·         8- 8:10 Get Dressed

·         8:10- 8:30 EAT Breakfast

·         8:30- 8:40 Read Scriptures/ Family Prayer

·         8:40- 9:05 Home School

·         9:05- 9:15  get ready and go to swimming

·         9:30 – 10 Swimming Lessons

·         10:30 – 11:45 Chores and Clean House, Make sure swimming stuff is ready for next day, Help Mom!

·         12 noon Lunch -If chores are done…. Have fun the rest of the day!

What's a little amazing is how they gnashed and wailed about having to "get up by 8am"... yet they are up by 7AM every morning WAKING ME UP! LOL! We've actually been pretty close to schedule every day too. (not a weekend deal though.) You might look at the "Home School" part and think I'm a real Nutter Butter... but Ella needs to gain some ground this summer so i needed to put that in. Alex is researching Pre-Calculus for next year, Pepper is playing online math games or writing stories and Hannah is also working on math, Algebra. The three older girls are exceptional readers and writers... I'm so impressed by their abilities. This year they scored 100% on the state tests for both.*happy mama here*  Ella is a lot like me and more interested in fun and dancing. I love reading now but it came later in life. I created a rewards system for her this summer... a BOOKWORM!  She sits anxiously and reads with me now ... slowly sounding out her words, it makes my heart leap to hear her. I'm hoping that she will be fully reading by the summer's end. One thing is for sure though... I just want her to love it no matter what level she is at... so I'm making it fun! Here is the BOOKWORM I created for her...Download Book worm by Lisa Johnson

Feel free to use it for personal use. My other girls want to have their own book worm. Unfortunately, for them, I have to take books away so much, when they are supposed to be doing their chores, that they don't need any encouragement. LOL!

What are YOU doing this summer???  :)

Whew... sorry about the monster post. LOL! I've missed blogging and there's been a lot of yada yada going on! Thanks for poppy-ing by!

 

P.S. I just inked up my NEXT stamp set today. OM WORD... It's so cool! I couldn't be happier with how it turned out. I might just have to sit here on my couch tonight, watch a movie and PLAY!!! I can't wait to share!

the last of school...

It's that time of the year... today was the last day of School! Thought I would share a card I created for Ella's Teacher. :) It's one I popped out in 5 minutes... literally.It felt good to just whip it out too!

 

Teacher's Apple is such a great set with wonderful sentiment for teacher appreciation. I thought it would be nice to create a card with it and Life... I thought it turned out sweet. The new paper, Bitty Box Basics is my new favorite... Bitty Dots holding a close 2nd! Isn't that Pure Poppy and True Black ink cool on the Lemon Tart Patterned Paper!

Ella's teacher is super fantastic! She had such a gentle way of helping her learn... and is such a positive person. What a joy it's been this year having her as Ella's teacher!

It was a great Kindergarten graduation! Lots of great memories and smiling faces!

I tried to avoid a photo... but realized that Ella would probably like one later in life, no matter how much I dislike having my photo taken. (She lost another tooth last night... isn't she cute!)

I have more photos and another teacher's card for later... What did you make for your teacher friends... past or present? I'd love to hear about it! Oh... and I can wait to hear about what PTI goodies you got this month too!

Thanks for poppy-ing by!

 

P.S. Someone asked about how I got my signature to "look like that?". I actually just wrote it using my Wacom tablet in Adobe Illustrator, the Design Program I and saved it. :) HTH!

Papertrey Ink Release June 2009

I've got two fun cards to share with you from this month's Papertrey Ink release...

First is my card using Cupcake Collection, a super perfect cupcake building set!

Isn't it fun! I love the thought of sugared cupcakes! Yum!

I was going through some old cards of mine and saw one with this layout. I love it and thought it would be fun to use with this set!

Fruitful is Candice's newest set. It's just so sweet... love the different fruits that are included!

It's kinda funny how my card has some similar elements to Nichole's sample... and we never saw each others before her post. LOL! (Her's takes the prize though I tell ya! She is the QUEEN!) I used the Y from the Berry sentiment to make the word Peachy... I thought that was slightly smart. Heehee!

I wanted to play of the muli-colored peach... the pink is so fun. I used Background Basics: Spots & Dots for a little extra. White ink softens the edges... sort of like the inside of the peach!

Make sure to check out the DT blogs as they have almost all posted their samples! Their Heavenly Medley one's have my heart full! You've already seen All my Heavenly Medley samples... but you can scroll down to see them again. I have gotten several emails this week regarding people's excitement over the set... That's just been SO fun!

• Becky Oehlers
• Betsy Veldman
• Dawn McVey
• Debbie Olson
• Geny Cassady
• Heather Nichols
• Lauren Meader
• Melissa Phillips
• Michelle Wooderson
• Niki Estes

I'm off to wrap up last minute things for Hannah's "Moving Up" ceremony tonight, her 8th grade graduation. i can't believe that I will have 2 in High School next year! *Whoa*

thanks for poppy-ing by!

Heavenly Medley Day 5

Here we are on our final day of the countdown for Heavenly Medley... it's been such a great week. We've seen fantastic samples from Nichole and you've shared some personal ideas that I think will be great to create when you get your set. I really look forward to seeing your creations on your personal blogs and galleries. Please let me know when you do so I can visit! Heavenly Medley goes on sale June 15th at Papertrey Ink at midnight EST... that's June 14th PST if you are on the west coast! ;) Make sure to pop by the June release party over at the Papertrey Ink forum and chat with us. It's always fantastic to chat with everyone! The part starts HERE at 10pm EST/7pm PST. see you then!

On to the last projects...
Missionary work is something that most Christian religions take part in. It's done in various ways but with the same goal in heart... to share the message of Jesus Christ, whether is be in word or through humanitarian service.  Knowing that was an important part of not just my faith but many others, I knew I needed to include some stamp representing that!

This little world image is my loose interpretation of the Earth. I wanted to make sure you could color it in if wanted of simply stamp with it!

I made sure to make the size perfect for the Extra Jumbo Circle punch by Marvy... but that's a pretty standard size if you have punches.

Here's the ensemble with a decorated Tie box!

 

 

Om Goodness... that Soft Stone cardstock is so pretty and .... well, SOFT!

I created this for someone who is getting ready to embark on a full time mission. I personally served a full time mission for my Church in upstate NY, the Rochester Area. I had opportunities to teach and to work in many physical capacities, such as with Special Olympics. I loved every life changing minute! My Husband had the unique privilege of serving a mission in what was then East Germany, BEFORE the wall came down. He was able to serve those people during a time of despair and he truly loved them. He was still there when the wall came down and witnessed those historical events first hand from the perspective of the East Germans. We have large pieces of the Berlin Wall in our home that remind us of the privileges that freedom gives us! We are both looking forward to serving a mission together later on in life, whether it be a teaching or humanitarian mission!
(The Hymns that inspired these images are specific to the LDS faith, but  are beautiful and inspiring... here they are if you would like to listen to them. We'll Bring the World His Truth & Joseph Smith's first prayer.)

Last but not least is one of my FAVORITE hymns of ALL time... I Believe in Christ!  There isn't a lot more I can say about it... it's a term that applies to all Christians! This hymn talks about His great works and mission on Earth. It a true testimony with a melody!I find myself brought to tears many times as I sing it. The stamps that were inspired by it are simply the sentiments...you can see them in the top of this hand stamped paper! Journal writing is so great to do, so I wanted to create a journal  that included that sentiment...

 

Pine uses this method, lots of stamps arranged on her block, to create her pattern paper a lot... I thought I would give it a try for the journal. I used almost every image from Heavenly Medley to make the paper!

that was not only fun, but a snap to use! Next I colored certain areas with Copic Markers... making sure to outline everything with the C1 marker to give it some POP!

 

All those Papertrey Buttons give it a finished touch, don't you think? Did I mention that the new pattern paper... Bitty Box Basics is my new favorite pattern paper? Oh you will just LOVE it! Simple, yet goes with everything!

Well that's all she wrote... er... I mean made! LOL!  I appreciate you coming by this week to see the projects with Heavenly Medley. Your excitement for the set has been overwhelming. I hope that you will let Papertrey Ink know how great is it that they are willing to produce such a versatile faith based set! Papertrey is so great about providing a little something for everyone!

Make sure to check out Nichole's and Becky's blog. They are showing a sneak peek from Candice's new set! AND.... Wendy Sue Anderson, Papertrey's Distinguished guest designer, has a really amazing project using Heavenly Medley! I fell out of my chair when I saw it!

Hopefully we will "chat" tonight! Thanks for Poppy-ing by!

 

Supplies found here.

Heavenly Medley Day 4

Welcome to day four in the countdown to the release for the Heavenly Medley stamp set! Available from Papertrey Ink June 15th. Weren't Nichole's projects from yesterday with this set AMAZING!!! Just wait until you see the DT samples! *faint*

*I have 2 posts today, so make sure you don't miss the other!*

The song, Faith (click to hear.) is yet another children's hymn sentiment that is featured in Heavenly Medley . I had a smidgen of room left to squeeze in a few more small sentiments and this is one I added. (It's was a suggestion from my friend, thanks again Melis!) The Hymn talks about Faith being like a little seed... "if planted it will grow".I love that knowledge. See the little sprout on the end of the sentiment... isn't that fun! I think today's card would be perfect for someone who is struggling with anything...and just needs some encouragement and faith that all can be well...

You will see 4 images from Heavenly Medley on this card. The Branch, Leaf Flourish Corner, Faith and James 1:5. The  branch is a fun little image that can work with several different elements in the set.

 
The scripture is James 1:5 and reads "If any of you lack wisdom, let him as of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.". This scripture is extremely meaningful in my faith. I will share a little more on that tomorrow though. :)

I wanted to say how wonderful it's been hearing from you... your comments means so much. I also love hearing what it is that you are looking for in sets. What you  would be interested in seeing from me specifically in the future. Let me know! Also... feel free to ask questions. Yesterday we had several about sewing machines! See that post for the edited version with answers! :) Sorry i only have one card to share today... It's dance performance weekend and my girls need a little extra mommy time. :)

See you tomorrow as I wrap up the countdown for Heavenly Medley! Thanks for poppy-ing by!

Supplies found here.

Vintage Picnic Possibilities

*There are two posts today... make sure to check both out!*

Don't you just love Countdown week for Papertrey Ink!? So many fresh ideas floating around just waiting for you! Today is the Design Team Group post... and you wont be dissapointed!

I'm totally in love with this new set by Papertrey Ink called Vintage Picnic. Nichole created it and it was conceptualized by Michelle Wooderson. It's just Brilliant! I chose to create a patriotic themed card for a friend serving in the military.

I wanted to lend a vintage feel to my card today so I used the Green Tea pattern paper along with Papertrey's newest pattern paper. (I'll let Nichole share that collections name, but it's my new favorite!) The Scarlet Jewel Buttons are darker than the Pure Poppy paper but really help pop out that Red star in the basket...

I spent some time coloring in the image with my Copic Markers. (click to see a larger view of the detail!) I love how warm it turned out!

here are links to the rest of the team so that you can see what they created with Vintage Picnic!Nichole, Becky, Betsy,  Dawn, Debbie, Geny, Heather, Lauren, Melissa, Michelle, Niki.

I hope you enjoyed today's project! Thanks for poppy-ing by!

 

All supplies by Papertrey Ink unless otherwise noted.

• Stamps- Vintage Picnic
• Ink- Dark Chocolate
• Paper- Kraft, White, Green Tea and *** Pattern Paper.
• Copic Markers- B45, R22, Y00,E27, E31, B21, R29, C1, Blender
• Other- Spring Rain and Scarlet Jewel Buttons, Scalloped scissors (Fiskars), twine

Heavenly Medley Day 3

Here we are, already on day three of the countdown to the release of Heavenly Medley! Make sure to check out THIS post for the details if you are just now visiting. Just a reminder that this set is available through Papertrey Ink starting June 15th. We've been having a fantastic time and I'm excited to share today's projects!!! Starting off I'm featuring the images from the preview... the Baptism Rainbow and Sun!

When I am Baptized (Click link to hear.) This is such a sweet Children's hymn that talks about the beauty and cleansing power of baptism. The gentle voice in this particular recording just twangs my heart... it's so sweet.  The Rainbow has long been associated with baptism.. It was a token given from God after the Great flood, that covered the entire earth and cleansing it... to show his promise that the Earth would never be flooded again. (Genesis 9: 8-17)  I thought a Rainbow was a perfect image to use for representing baptism in the Heavenly Medley stamp set too!

So... here is what I made with it to share with you today!

Ella will be able to be baptized at age 8, if she chooses. I was thinking of her when I created this set. I wanted it to be cute and brightly colored, with as many rainbow colors as I could include. AND... with Ella, Glitter is a must! 

One trick I've gotten used to doing when sewing bits of paper together is to adhere them to regular printer paper before sewing...

This method is something I couldn't live without in my papercrafting. Next I can, if need be, trim some of the backing paper off the back...just make sure not to cut your stitches! After I trim my sections off there are loose ends. I use Fabri-tac to tack it down to the paper... just a tad though. (ETA: I was asked if I have 2 separate sewing Machines one for Paper Crafting and one for sewing... nope, I never sew... I can't follow a sewing pattern to save my life. I just just one for Paper crafting. It's been a great buy!)

I wanted to point out that the Sun image is separate from the Rainbow image. You might have noticed the subtle stamped sun on the card base. I thought that having it separate would make it more versatile.

Ella LOVES photos... especially when they are of something she has been involved in! Baptisms are huge in our church and there is typically refreshments afterward. Many family members will fly out to attend... so there are usually a ton of photos. This little album is by We R and holds 3x3 protectors inside. Isn't it darling!

You can see how I used my awesome Copic markers here too! Shading the sentiment really makes it POP. Glitter was added on the smaller lines as I wanted it to be subtle. Oh... and aren't those vintage buttons the perfect finishing touch! *Button Crazy woman here!!!*

 Next is There is Sunshine In My Soul Today (Click to hear) A familiar Hymn written by Eliza E.Hewitt. It was interesting to read that she "suf­fered a se­vere back in­ju­ry, but af­ter six months in a cast, she was fin­al­ly able to take a simp­le walk in the park. The joy she felt at her re­cov­ery prompt­ed these words.".(cited) Oh boy... I can relate to her situation, I have Degenerative Disc Disease and some days are really hard. It took several months after I had a surgery to remove my neck brace and I remember feeling grateful for the simplest things. I think about that often as a reminder to find and feel joy in all things!

I asked my kids what the sentiment brought to mind. Hannah (age 14) said "a heart and sun together". So that was the inspiration for this card! She's such a smart girl!

I designed the sun to have an open center for coloring in or putting smaller images into it. The acrylic heart is cut and embossed using my Cuttlebug. I used a Copic Marker, Y38 to color in the indented areas then backed it with some Lemon Tart paper.

 

The long circle are also in Heavenly Medley. They go great with the "Together Forever" image as they symbolize (to me) the intertwining of our loved ones into Eternity. I made it more than 2 rings because the principle is for the entire family being together, not just husband and wife. Notice the little buttons peeking out under the oval sentiment? Just something different to do with those great buttons! 

So... I'm dying to hear what your favorite image or project has been so far? How can you see using it? Also, feel free to post questions!

If you haven't had a chance, make sure to visit Nichole's blog as she is featuring Heavenly Medley today and has created three amazing cards!  Lauren has a great peek too!

Thank you once more for the lovely comments and personal emails! I'm overwhelmed by your excitement for this set! Thank you! Many of you has said that you have friends that would love this special set. Thanks for spreading the new about it! See you tomorrow for more new project and images from Heavenly Medley!

Thanks for poppy-ing by!

Supplies found here.

Heavenly Medley Day 2

Welcome back... and to day 2 of the sneak peek countdown to the release of Heavenly Medley! I can't tell you how wonderful it is to hear from you, here and via emails, about your excitement about this set! THANK YOU for taking the time to share your thoughts and excitement with me and your friends!  Onto day 2 projects...

The sentiment, "Peace... be still.", is the highlight in this next card. I feel so much comfort and calmness when I hear those words. The sentiment comes from Mark 4:36-41 (we use the King James version of the Holy Bible) that tell of The Savior, Jesus Christ, calming the raging seas. Master, The Tempest is Raging (click to hear) is a Hymn that is found in several hymnbooks and refers to this scripture and it's application to us personally. During times of stress, worry and adversity I hear this phrase in the song and instantly feel calmer. I thought it would be a great sentiment for giving encouragement cards. Imagine being stressed and opening an envelope with this card in it...

Also included in the set is a leaf flourish corner. It started out originally as just branches and a sweet friend suggested making it more of a corner type image. Isn't she brilliant! (Thanks Melis!) I'm really pleased with how it turned out and how beautifully it translates when stamped!  I created this little frame by stamping the image then trimming it. the ribbon is pinched a little behind it to give the illusion of being looped through it... but it's just sitting under it.

Just wait until you see the Design team samples with the Leaf Flourish corner!!! *faint*

I thought it would be fun to make one more thing for today's post...

Together Forever (click to hear) is a fantastic Hymn that talks about how "we can be together forever through Heavenly Father's plan". This means so much to me... that our family's relationship reaches into eternity.

I created this frame with our engagement photo (it still makes me smile. Don't we look WAY outdated! LOL!) using the sentiment and the Leaf Flourish frame from Heavenly Medley. I love the look of it embossed... it went from earthy to elegant in just a snap! The sentiment isn't just for marriage/wedding occasions... it's can be used for many different family occasions!

This would also be a great frame for a new baby, family portrait etc.

What other projects do you think you would make with these three images I've shown today from Heavenly Medley? I can't wait to hear your thoughts!

Pine, Lauren, Kelly & Nichole have great Papertrey Ink projects to share today too... don't miss the opportunity to visit their blogs! AND... Nichole is Featuring Heavenly Medley on her blog tomorrow

It's been so neat to share with you so far this week.   I'm particularly excited about what I'm sharing tomorrow! I just KNOW you are going to LOVE it too! See you then... thanks for poppy-ing by!

Supplies found here.

Introducing Heavenly Medley!

Welcome! I'm so excited to share a little bit with you today using my newest stamp set for Papertrey Ink! (Available June 15th) It's near and dear to my heart... and I hope you will love it as much as I do!

Heavenly Medley is a lovely faith based set just right for those whose faith is centered on Christ. It celebrates the sweet, comforting sentiments and imagery from various Christian denominations and Latter-day Saint hymns. Perfect for creating cards, scrapbook pages and gifts! Heavenly Medley includes 16 sentiment and image stamps and will retail for $15 for the set. A perfect set to express your faith while creating for those special people in your life!

Today I thought it would be nice to share the sentiment that inspired the entire set! (See THIS post for the story of the Baby blankets...it's an ongoing project that our ward does for the local hospital.)

I Am a Child of God (click to hear the Children's Songbook Hymn.) This sentiment is so special... I think that if we can think of, and remember that, all of the people around us are children of God... we might be less quick to judge and more willing to love and serve. The other thing I think of when I hear this sentiment is very personal... but I wanted to share. My self esteem has had it's up and downs in life. When I was really young I built my self esteem on outward things... job, talent, achievements, stuff. It was when I was about 22 that I realized that those things were not something that I could build a solid sense of self on... but knowing that I am a Daughter of God was. To this day, when I am feeling low or unsure, I hear this song and know that our Heavenly Father loves me... and how great that it! I know he loves you too!

OK, OK.... I'm wiping my eyes and getting on to the good stuff! I just HAD to make a fun baby gift using this sentiment...

I went to the local cross stitch store and matched up some embroidery floss to some PTI cardstock to create this sweet onesie. This took a little time to stitch but I was so excited with how it turned out!
First I placed a clip board into the shirt. (it's a 6-9 month.)

Next I stamped my image in DYE INK that will wash out. I chose pink since that was the color of thread I was mainly using. One reason I use dye in is because if I don't like the alignment of the image I can just wash it then use it again. I certainly don't want to throw away a onesie! :) Next I just used a back stitch and followed the image as a pattern. It took me about an hour to complete. I used to embroider a lot when I was younger and it was neat getting a few memories as I worked. One thing I need to mention is that I used 3 strands of the floss threads (taken out of the main strand) and not a whole strand for the words... 2 strands for the stars. A full strand would have over powered the image.

I wanted something sweet and simple for gifting this sweetie in. It immediately occurred to me to grab my lone paint can and see if it fit. I was jumping for joy when it did I tell ya! It looks so fresh and clean in there too! To create the sentiment to match I masked the stars out then stamped the sentiment in Raspberry Fizz ink. After cleaning the stamp, I inked each star the with the coordinating color using my Cube version of my Papertrey Inks and stamped! It was easy to see where the stars went because of it being a clear stamp!!!

Here is the sweet ensemble together... side by side! (click on the photo to see a larger view!)

 

In contrast... here is the image in black then markers are used to  color in and over the images.

I also added some glitter to the stars for some extra sparkle.

O wanted to point out that this sentiment isn't exclusive by ANY MEANS to babies. I plan on creating frames for each of my children with this sentiment somehow included. It's also PERFECT for scrap pages for people of any age. This is just one of the very versatile images in Heavenly Medley!

I bet you've already thought of a way to use this image in your life. I'd love to hear about it! I'd also love to hear your thoughts on a set like this. I know it's not going to be for everyone, but if it's something that you feel is missing is someone elses life you might consider spreading the word about it's availability!

Make sure to check out these wonderful Papertrey creations by the lovely Lauren, Kelly & Nichole ... they have some pretty amazing things up their sleeves!

See you tomorrow when I share another tidbit from Heavenly Medley... thanks for poppy-ing by!

Supplies found here.

June 2009 Papertrey Ink Sneak Peek!

Here we are again... another great month and Sneak Peek for a stamp set I've designed for Papertrey Ink! Nichole posted this lovely image on her blog...

 

As you might guess.... this set reflects my personal religious faith. However, while still representing that I've also included images and sentimentality that are are in common with my faith and most other Christian religions. I know you will be so happy when you see the versatility and value of this $15 set! The countdown to the release of this special set start here on June 9th at 9 pm PST. The set goes on sale at Papertrey Ink on June 15th!

See you soon... thanks for poppy-ing by!

Embellish It!

June 1st ushers in the monthly Papertrey Ink Senior Dt Challenge. This month was so fun.... create a custom embellishment! Each of us, on the team and Kelly, has created something unique to share today...I'm really excited to hear what you think about my contribution!

You know what I saw?..... Wood! I know... corny joke.. get it, "saw wood". *phfffffft* LOL! I love the look of wood and love it in my projects.. but lets face it, they're hard to find, typically heavy and cute shapes are really expensive.  I thought that I would try to create some Faux Wood embellishments....scalloped frames... and by golly it worked!!! can you guess how It's done?

Here's what you will need for the technique...

• Dark Chocolate Ink
• Clear Cardstock
• Rustic Button Twine
• Course sanding block/paper
• Cream Acrylic Paint
• Synthetic Sponge

Nichole showed how much the PTI consumables are... a really great breakdown. These pretties and up to be really economical!

What to do: Sand one side of the Clear Cardstock then sponge on the ink in a circular, pressing motion. Lightly heat set the ink then paint over it all. When all is said and done (and dry) the clean, smooth clear side with look like finished wood! You can do this to an entire sheet of Clear cardstock all at once too!

You can use punches (I used Marvy.) to create the desired shapes or die cuts. (you can also just cut squares)  With all the different way to create shapes... this will open up so many possibilities to you!

I also decided to back them with stamped (Text style) Vintage cream cardstock using caramel ink... but you can do whatever you choose!
I thought it would be fun to break out Wise Owl for this card. It was so easy to imagine this little guy sitting in the frame!

Men of Life paper and machine stitching are used to give an "at home" feel. Copic Markers were used to color the little guy.(RV13, RV14, Y15, N1, B21, B23, 0)

gotta have those Vintage Buttons huh!

I'm so happy to have figured this out... it took me a little to get the "formula" right... but now it's a snap to create my own Faux wood embellishments! What can you see yourself creating with this technique? Just think about what cool father's day goodies you can make!!!

Here are the other Sr. Dt links as well as Kelly's and Nichole's!

• Becky
• Heather
• Lauren
• Mish
• Nichole
• Kelly

Thanks for poppy-ing by!

life is good...

I thought I'd pop in for a quick share! The mommy side of life has me going in so many directions...but, like this card says... life is good. Generally speaking... :)

I'm surprisingly fond of Summer Sunrise. It seems to be one of those colors that really goes well with others and even changes tone with certain other colors. I love how it relates with Hibiscus Burst! I used A Day at the Beach to create this simple, fun card. The rock and Roll technique works SO beautifully with these two colors too! Isn't it cool how those bright colors look on Kraft cardstock!

I just love when something simple has a sweet beauty! a little glitter adds such a delicate touch. I have this card in my card box now, just waiting for a fun time to give it to the right person! :)

I'm off to water my garden boxes... and I have one special plant to tend to today. (but that's a whole other post.)

Oh... and it's almost June 1st! Only a few more days until the PTI Senior DT monthly Challenge!!! It's a fun one this month too!!! you are gonna love it!

Thanks for poppy-ing by!

My Little PTI Swatch Book!

I've been trying to get on top of things these past few day... my studio was a wreck after the last Papertrey Ink release... it's especially that way during a release of my own set... play, explode, create, mess.... you get the picture. I'm a practical organizer... what I mean by that is that I try not to make things perfect, because lets face it I'm personally not capable of maintaining that. Practical, for me, means realistic expectations. Expectations for myself that I can meet and maintain. So I was putting stuff away into "my" system, putting away several full sheets of cardstock when I realized that there was one thing that would probably help me cut down on my mess! I needed a Papertrey Ink cardstock "Swatch Book"!

Let me share first just a few ways that work for me to keep my working studio in motion...

I have a counter high desk... on the top I have these snazzy drawers from Ikea... 3 in the piece that run across the length of the desk. The middle one has adhesives and sponges... This end one holds my Acrylic Blocks. I find it extremely easy to just grab one and stamp. I have the plastic mini drawers organized to hold my Papertrey Perfect Match inks. I've broken them down into  different categories as well as stamped a little label to see the color. I like that I can change this when colors are added if needed... or buy more drawers! LOL! I have my most used smaller tools in the basket and my glitter and pan ready to go. I never clean that pan because It's exclusive to that glitter. (that might bug some people but I love saving time!)

My Papertrey Ink Vintage Buttons are kept in these Sock Dividers that I spied at Daiso (it's like a Dollar store.) While I ADORE cute little jars of buttons,  I don't have the space to display them... so being the frugal gal that I am I just keep them in their packaging and divided. One thing to keep in mind when trying to figure out just what works for you is that you need to be flexible as you supplies grow or shrink. These sock dividers used to hold ribbon for a company that I no longer work with. Now a great home for my buttons!

A similar story with my PTI ribbon...

I use to store my single woodmount stamps in this Snapware... and these babies aren't cheap so I wasn't going to toss them. I can fit several spools of ribbon in each container...about 4 full color lines/styles. I stack them like steps going up, leaning up against the back of the cubby. This enables me to have it right at my fingertips and be able to inventory it! I keep little extra snips in a Recycled costco nut container (above the ribbon with my "in the works" images). Having the ribbon in my cubby also protects it a lot from the light... since that can bleach out the color over time... which happens to cardstock even more... so I keep mine in a dark cabinet.

OK... now to the swatch book!

I first created a label sheet with all the cardstock colors that Papertrey Ink carries.Here is a copy for you if you deiced to make your own book! PLEASE NOTE... this document is for personal use only!)  Download Papertrey Cardstock Labels (I ended up taking off the white from this sheet because I wanted to provide Soft Stone for you!) These are formatted for these white mailing label ... the same as a nugget label! As Papertrey adds new colors you can print additional labels on a single, monthly basis.

Next I stamped the coordinating Perfect Match ink onto each label with an image from Spots & Dots. You will notice that I formatted the specialty cardstock to center align since they have to ink to coordinate with. :) I trimmed a piece of each cardstock color to 2 3/4 x 4 inches and applied their labels. I also stamped VersaMark onto each sheet for that reference too... since I like using that particular ink so much.Oh... and I made this project using scraps... cardstock, ribbon, Patterned paper... All of that! :) That felt good too!

The next step was to create a protective cover... to help it last a LONG TIME!

I trimmed some lightweight coasters to 4x3 1/8 inches and then decorated it with some Black & White Basics patterned paper. 

Here is the finished book! It's a little simple but reflects my taste. I love how fun and funky Fresh Alphabet looks on it too! Look at all that Papertrey Ink Cardstock!!!

Some of you might wonder why I didn't bind in more permanently... here's my reasoning: I KNOW there are more colors to come, I want the flexibility of swinging the colors out to compare and plan designs... and finally there is a benefit to being able to simply opening the book and playing mix and match with the cards! I'm able to use color theory to play with my colors... first hand not just mentally.

Like these two colors... they are complementary colors. (Directly across from each other on the color wheel.)

 

While these colors (Albeit, the camera didn't catch the colors correctly) are Analogous. (these three colors would be side by side on the color wheel.)

So? Can you see yourself creating one of these little helpers?!?!? I'm so excited to have one now! I just know this is going to make life easier... and less cluttered! Let me know whatcha think!

Thanks for poppy-ing by!

Let Freedom Ring: The Best of the Best!

I thought I would share the best of the best Design team samples from the Papertrey Ink Design team... AKA the best Stamping DT in town!

(in no particular order)

Betsy... amazing scrap page that brought a HUGE smile to my face!

Mish... who has a fantastic tutorial on her bog on how to create these  lovely cards!

Melis... So sweet and festive!

Pine... Clean and whimsical!

 

Debbie... Festive and detailed to the "t".

Geny... Fantastic use of patterns and colors!

 

Lauren... Giving the set a starring role on one of her fantastic templates.

Becky... a warm "at home" feel!

 

Niki... Awesome layout , a happy patriotic card with awesome colors!

 

Dawn... Classic lines with a unique color combination!

 

So as you can see.... these ladies have done a bang up job... I am SO grateful for their work and unique interpretation of Let Freedom Ring!

I hope you enjoyed that... thanks for poppy-ing by!

Papertrey Ink Release May 2009

I hope you all have had a great release night! It's been a great month with a huge variety of styles and sets to use from Papertrey Ink! I'm really excited with the fact that I have just stamped the tip of the iceberg with these stamps... lots of ideas just waiting to happen!!!

First off...  Day at the Beach

Having flip-flop wearing girls... this set will be a go to for me for sure!!!  I really love Beach set and Candice did an amazing job illustrating! (My girls actually have a few flip-flops like these!!!)

Next is Fancy Flourishes... Um.... well.... I'M IN LOVE! This set goes with EVERYTHING!!! I combined it with Heart Prints for a switch up. :)

(Out for publication!)

Melissa has done it again with Bird Watching! I had fun creating this bright and cheery card... more love. Hmmm..... I must have been thinking of my sweet hubby a lot after such a great Mother's day!

I added some little hearts from my lOvE Songs stamp set ... love it with the flourish in the background.

Oh... and I thought I would share this card in this post because it's one of my favorites that I made with Let Freedom ring. Wanna know why? Well... as a recovering Pattern-paper-a-phobe I was really sort of proud of myself for pulling this off! I love Websters Page's new line and even though it took me longer to make this card than it  normally does... I am really happy with how it turned out. Sometimes I try what I thing is bold (for my skills and mindset) and it just doesn't come together. I'm so glad I tried and pushed myself. *cheesy grin*

Well... I hope that you enjoyed these samples. Feel free to check out the PTI gallery for the supply lists.
I've got more to share over the next week... so stay tuned! Thanks for poppy-ing by!a

Let Freedom Ring: Day 5

Well here we are... on last day of the countdown for my newest stamp set, Let Freedom Ring! It's been a fun week and wonderful to hear your thoughts on the set. THANK YOU for your enthusiasm and lovely comments!!! Don't forget to head over to the PTI forum for the release party! The fun starts @10pm EST/7pm PST. (on May 14th) All the goodies become available at midnight that night too!!!

Yesterday I found a fun package on my doorstep with the new Webster's Pages Sweet as Cherry Pie line all snug in it. OM GOSH! this is such a great line... and wouldn't you know it... it's VERY patriotic!!!

I thought I would dig into my vintage imagination and create a fun card using several of the papers. I masked over the pies and stamped on the pattern paper with the Star cluster image over it to add even more depth. I also stamped the "let freedom ring!" image. The firecrackers were also stamped onto separate pattern paper... lots of color layering.

You will notice the introduction of the starry circle image today. I stamped it in caramel ink then stamped the 4th of July circle over it before punching it out. Here is a close up...

I also used that image to stamp on a scrap piece to create the yellow star. (click on the photo for a larger view.)

I used that same image to create the small stars in the custom pattern paper below...

I thought I would make this with a masculine touch... there are so many kids that I know that are graduating or doing something in the near future that is BIG for them.

Notice the argyle type patterns???

I used Fresh Snow and Ocean Tides ink on the Kraft strip... so masculine and gentle. AND I stamped the Striped Star Circle image then turned it and stamped again (make sure to line of the star and circle outlines as best as possible... Isn't that fun! I think that would be fantastic on a baby card as well!!! I thoughts these star clips were a fun find to include on this card too! it was a fluke that they worked so well... I love it when something old becomes new again!

There really are SO many possibilities with Let Freedom Ring! 

Tell me... What has YOUR favorite project been using this set???

Hopefully I will see you at the release part for some chatting! Thanks again for your excitement... sounds like many of you are happy to finally have a set like this. Makes a girl feel good I tell ya!

Take one last peek at Nichole's, Lauren's and Melissa's blogs for the final sneak peeks!

Thanks for poppy-ing by!

Supplies here.

Let Freedom Ring: Day 4

Welcome back! I hope you all are having a good week so far... hasn't it been a creative whirlwind!!! So many new yummy things to create with that will become available May 15th through Papertrey Ink!  I have a few more projects today using my newest stamp set, Let Freedom Ring!

I wanted to create something for my friend, Jennifer McCleve who is a Lt. Colonel  in the Air Force. (here is a story about her from a few years ago and her most recent tour here.) She is my HERO! Jennifer is not only a dedicated member of the military, but the truest  person/friend you will meet. She is kind, hard working, compassionate, creative, beautiful and loving! (just to name a few of her traits.)

The sentiment, "red, white & true blue friends" was something I read while surfing the net last year. it stuck in my head as a unique sentiment that would be nice to send as a patriotic friend card. It's SO Jennifer! I bet you have a friend that is true blue that you could use this sentiment for too!

It's a pretty simple card, full of warmth. Background Basics: Text Style & Fancy Flourishes (both available May 15th) really add that elegant feel I wanted. I sponged some Caramel ink around the edges for that "Declaration of Independence" feel.

I'm all about the glitter today I tell ya!  This next card is for a friend who seems to be going through a lot lately... it seems like she has become the proverbial lightning rod. I thought the sweet colors and warm sentiment just might bring a smile to her face. it's SO splendidly sparkly in person!

Isn't if fun how you can create patterns with so many of the images from Let Freedom Ring! Maker sure to click on the photo to see a larger version so that you can see all the yummy details!

Ocean tides, Melon Berry and Spring Moss are such a fantastic combination. especially on Vintage Cream cardstock... very peaceful and calming.

I looks to me like many of you are seeing the versatility of this fun set. So... what are you going to make with it???

There is still one more day to share... so come back tomorrow for one last sneak peek at  Let Freedom Ring! Nichole, Lauren's and Melissa's blogs have more goodies... head over to take a peek!
See you tomorrow and thanks for poppy-ing by!